Innovative Configuration Research Articles

Characterization of the oil water two phase flow in a novel microchannel contactor equipped with helical wire static mixer

This study investigates an oil/water two-phase system to assess the potential efficacy of a novel passive mixer in enhancing the liquid-liquid interfacial area within a micro-channel contactor. In this system, two fluids are introduced into a microchannel with a diameter of 800 μm and a length of 20 cm, which is equipped with a stainless-steel helical wire measuring 250 μm in diameter. Throughout the experiments, both fluids are supplied at equal flow rates, and the dominant forces, including attachment and detachment forces, are examined. The results reveal a critical Weber number of 3.8 × 10−³, at which the first detachment occurs. A comparison between microchannels with and without the passive micromixer demonstrates that greater slug breakup occurs in the system incorporating the helical wire micromixer. This innovative configuration results in a significant reduction in slug/droplet size compared to a microchannel without a barrier, decreasing from approximately 600 μm to 390 μm at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. Additionally, a flow map is presented, illustrating three distinct flow regimes: flow contains long slug, Slug-droplet flow, and droplet flow regimes, with the droplet flow regime covering the largest area. The findings indicate that the implementation of this innovative passive mixer substantially increases the interfacial area, providing significant advantages for mass transfer applications.

Hafnia-based neuromorphic devices

The excellent complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor compatibility and rich physicochemical properties of hafnia-based materials, in particular the unique ferroelectricity that surpasses of conventional ferroelectrics, make hafnia-based devices promising candidates for industrial applications. This Perspective examines the fundamental properties of hafnia-based materials relevant to neuromorphic devices, including their dielectric, ferroelectric, antiferroelectric properties, and the associated ultra-high oxygen-ion conductivity. It also reviews neuromorphic devices developed leveraging these properties, such as resistive random-access memories, ferroelectric random-access memories, ferroelectric tunnel junctions, and (anti)ferroelectric field-effect transistors. We also discuss the potential of these devices for mimicking synaptic and neuronal functions and address the challenges and future research directions. Hafnia-based neuromorphic devices promise breakthrough performance improvements through material optimization, such as crystallization engineering and innovative device configuration designs, paving the way for advanced artificial intelligence systems.

Fabrication and performance evaluation of large–scale luminescent and plasmonic luminescent solar concentrator modules

This study presents the detailed fabrication and performance evaluation of large–scale luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) and plasmonic luminescent solar concentrator (PLSC) modules. Individual LSC, PLSC, and reference devices have been fabricated with dimensions of 10 x 10 x 0.5 cm. Five devices of each type were connected in series, ensuring correct photovoltaic cell polarity, to form cohesive modular groups with minimal mismatch. These solar concentrators were subsequently integrated into an outdoor panel designed to accommodate the modules for outdoor performance evaluations. Outputs of 240 mW, 213 mW, and 46 mW were observed for the individual PLSC, LSC and reference devices respectively from an indoor solar simulator test outputting 900 W/m2. Outdoor performance analysis has highlighted that the inclusion of metal nanoparticles within the PLSCs enhanced the outputs by 65% on average with a maximum enhancement of 88.6% observed over the course of a single day. The series connection within the LSC modules demonstrated enhanced scalability and potential for practical application in solar energy systems. This innovative module configuration provides valuable insights into the advancement of luminescent solar concentrators through plasmonic enhancement, contributing to the broader goal of optimising solar energy harvesting.

A novel interleaved BIFRED-Zeta with intelligent MPPT for PV applications

ABSTRACT The current energy perspective postulates profound presence of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs), resulting in need for optimal DC-DC converter design to assure efficient power conversion and minimise losses. By minimising energy losses and improving power quality, an optimal converter design helps ensure a stable and reliable power supply from RESs, which is essential for meeting the growing demand for clean energy. Therefore, this research introduces an innovative Interleaved BIFRED-Zeta converter configuration, designed to meet all criteria associated with an optimal converter design. The interleaved architecture of converter allows the reduction of current ripples and voltage stress along with the improvement of efficiency. Furthermore, the absence of transformer in converter structure enables it to be simple, cost effective and less bulky. The Interleaved Boost Integrated Flyback Rectifier Energy Storage DC-DC (BIFRED)-Zeta converter duty cycle is adjusted continuously using Cascaded Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) to further maximise Photovoltaics (PV) system power output. The capability of suggested converter design is demonstrated by the results obtained using simulation and laboratory prototype implementation. Thereby, a peak efficiency of 97.6% is estimated to be achieved using suggested converter design.

Nonlinear elasticity tailoring and failure mode manipulation of functionally graded honeycombs under large deformation

Design of lattice metamaterials with tailored mechanical properties at a relatively higher (macro) length scale by architecting lower (micro) length scale geometric and material configurations leads to achieving unprecedented mechanical properties for fulfilling advanced multi-functional structural demands. In the design space of innovative microstructural configurations, we propose a novel class of lattice metamaterials with cell walls made of optimally designed functionally graded intrinsic materials. Under different modes of remotely applied mechanical stresses, two different intuitive architectures of functional gradations for the intrinsic cell wall materials are proposed. The large-deformation nonlinear lattices result in broadband modulation of effective stiffness, and an unprecedented manipulation capability of failure modes and corresponding strengths covering ductile and brittle types depending on architected material gradation. For estimating the nonlinear elasticity and microstructural stresses as a measure of failure mode for the proposed functionally graded lattices undergoing large deformation, a multi-scale mechanics-based semi-analytical framework is developed. Geometrically nonlinear functionally graded beams with generalized material gradation, integrated with unit cell architectures, are analyzed through iterative variational energy principle-based Ritz approach. Based on the developed physically insightful computational framework, effective nonlinear elastic properties and failure modes of the functionally graded honeycomb lattices are tailored as a function of the intrinsic material gradation at the lower length scale. The proposed novel class of lattices with optimally designed functionally graded intrinsic materials and coupled unit cell architectures would open up innovative avenues for designing advanced multi-functional engineering structures and mechanical systems.

Light harvesting S-scheme g-C3N4/TiO2/M photocatalysts for efficient removal of hazardous moxifloxacin

The development of advanced photocatalysts with enhanced efficiency for environmental remediation is critical for addressing persistent organic pollutants like Moxifloxacin. In this study, we present a novel S-scheme heterojunction g-C3N4/TiO2/M photocatalyst designed to optimize light harvesting and charge separation for the effective degradation of Moxifloxacin. The innovative S-scheme configuration enables superior charge transfer dynamics by retaining potent photogenerated electrons in the conduction band of TiO2 and holes in the valence band of g-C3N4, significantly improving photocatalytic performance compared to conventional Type-II systems. Heterogeneous photocatalysis, particularly using TiO2-based materials, offers a promising approach. Here, we synthesized TiO2 hybridized with metal-doped g-C3N4 (GCNTM) via a simple hydrothermal method. The fabricated nanocomposites were characterized using SEM, XRD, FTIR, and UV–Vis (DRS). These GCNTM nanocomposites were employed for the degradation of hazardous Moxifloxacin (MXF) under visible light. Detailed analysis of the photocatalytic mechanism reveals that the synergistic interaction between g-C3N4, TiO2, and the co-catalyst M not only broadens the light absorption spectrum but also enhances the separation and lifespan of charge carriers. Among the synthesized materials, GCNTLa demonstrated the highest degradation efficiency, achieving 96 % removal of MXF. This enhanced activity is attributed to the effective suppression of charge recombination, leading to the generation of reactive species responsible for MXF degradation. Additionally, GCNTM showed remarkable stability and reusability, with only a 6 % reduction in efficiency after five cycles, confirming its high reusability and mechanical stability. Our S-scheme photocatalyst demonstrates a marked increase in the degradation rate of Moxifloxacin under visible light irradiation, highlighting its potential for practical environmental applications.

Utilizing novel industrialized heat exchanger plate in air-based photovoltaic/thermal collectors to enhance thermal and electrical efficiency

This study aims to design a highly efficient and applicable air-based photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) collector that maximizes both electrical and thermal energy efficiencies. An innovative industrialization-ready configuration of the air-based PVT system is proposed, utilizing an industrialized heat exchanger (GRIPMetal or GM) as the absorber plate for the PVT air channel. The heat exchanger consists of spikes and cavities to enhance the heat transfer coefficient in the air channel. The proposed heat exchanger plate minimally affects the dimensions and weight of the PVT collector. A numerical model, validated against experimental results, is used to ensure the accuracy of the simulation. The study is followed by a parametric study that investigates the geometric effects of the heat exchanger and air channel, as well as the airflow rate, on the overall performance of the PVT system. It is observed that the utilization of GM plates significantly reduces the average PV panel temperature (with a maximum of 28 ℃ reduction) and enhances the convective heat transfer coefficient in the air channel, the electrical and thermal efficiencies by approximately 164%, 16.1%, and 50%, respectively, when compared to a flat plate PVT collector. The results demonstrate that the proposed PVT collector effectively compensates for the pressure drops and excess fan power consumption at low Reynolds numbers due to the GM heat exchanger, resulting in higher overall system efficiency. The optimal configuration for the proposed PVT system is achieved by employing a low airflow rate, a narrow air channel, and GM spikes of the largest size available.

H∞ optimum design and nonlinear seismic performance assessment of tuned-mass-damper-inerter (TMDI) supported by an auxiliary structure

Tuned Mass Damper Inerter (TMDI) and its simplified form, Tuned Inerter Damper (TID), are highly effective in mitigating seismic responses in buildings, particularly when rigidly connected to the ground. However, practical constraints often limit the feasibility of this ideal setup. This study introduces a novel configuration: the AS-type TMDI, which connects the TMDI to an auxiliary structure (AS) adjacent to the main building to simulate a ground connection. To design the AS-type TMDI, this research builds upon insights from studies on TMDIs in adjacent buildings and develops an analogous 3-DOF model representing the TMDI-linked adjacent-building system. This model incorporates two buildings of different heights, allowing the TMDI to be connected at any floor level. Utilizing fixed-point theory, the study derives an analytical solution for the optimal design of TMDI systems within this novel configuration. Additionally, a method is introduced to determine the optimal stiffness and design procedure for the AS itself. The performance of the proposed AS-type TMDI is evaluated through comprehensive nonlinear seismic analysis of a benchmark nine-story steel frame structure, accounting for material and geometric nonlinearities. Results demonstrate that the AS-type TMDI performs comparably to a virtually grounded TMDI in effectively reducing the seismic responses. Furthermore, this innovative configuration outperforms both a conventional retrofitting technique, where the building is rigidly connected to the AS, and a system where a viscous damper alone connects the main building to the AS. This highlights the AS-type TMDI's potential to significantly improve the building’s seismic performance.

Irregular array optimization for beamforming with a polar coordinate-based partition coding approach

Abstract An innovative irregular array configuration optimization method for enhancing beamforming is introduced. This study presents partition coding to optimize sensor positioning and quantity of a non-uniform concentric circular array. This novel approach transcends traditional techniques by integrating structural partitioning and performance optimization to quantify the array’s geometry-performance correlation. Sensor candidate positions are mapped in polar coordinates, with each configuration translated into a sensor position matrix form. A significant innovation lies in the adaptation of the partition coding genetic algorithm to enhance the encoding of candidate positions and to refine crossover and mutation operations, underpinned by an elite retention strategy for selecting the optimal array configuration. Both simulation and experimental results substantiate the method’s effectiveness, achieving high-resolution acoustic mapping with commendably low computational complexity.

The Governance of Cybercrime: An Ecological Approach

Cybercrime is now the most common form of crime in Canada and causes significant financial and psychological harm. The criminal justice system struggles to address cybercrime due to its complexity, scale, and global nature. Criminologists are also challenged to think about cybercrime beyond established theoretical frameworks. An interdisciplinary approach is required to understand this phenomenon and enable us to craft effective policies. The discipline of ecology can provide valuable insights and a practical integrative framework through the concepts of community, interaction, and emergent effects. First, a high-level outline is provided of how the cybercrime ecosystem can be analyzed using basic ecological concepts and principles. This framework is then applied to the security community, showing how it is populated with a diversity of organizational and institutional entities that can be enabled or compelled to act in ways that enhance online security through a broad set of regulatory strategies. Finally, three innovative configurations that take advantage of this regulatory pluralism and novel forms of collaboration are described to illustrate how alternatives can be implemented to mitigate the negative impacts of cybercrime with promising outcomes.

Innovative configurations for heat sink integrated with piezoelectric fans

Piezoelectric (PE) fans are gradually replacing conventional axial flow fans in the field of heat dissipation for microelectronics due to small size and high efficiency. However, the flow characteristic of PE fans was seldom considered when arranging heat sink fins, which could not utilize the fans’ advantages. Here, the design of fin arrangement based on the transient flow field generated by the vibration of dual PE fans in the channel was calculated and analyzed by CFD simulation and dynamic grid technology. Four zones with different flow field characteristics were found: Zones 1 and 4 which located inlet and outlet of the channel were Parallel flow zone. Zone 2 with vortices corresponds to the area ranges from the waist of blades to middle section of the channel was Multiple vortices flow zone. Zone 3 with high-speed vortices and jet flows corresponds to the area ranges from middle section of the channel to halfway downstream of blades region was Diffuse flow zone. Innovative configurations of heat sinks where fins arranged at the inlet and surrounding blades were designed according to the flow field characteristics: the loss of high-speed airflow to the inlet was prevented effectively and heat dissipation in the downstream heat sinks was dispersed by fins arranging in Parallel flow zone and Multiple vortices flow zone. The development and merging of high-speed vortices were strengthened by the inhomogeneous pin-fins arranging in Diffuse flow zone. The optimal coordination between the velocity field and the temperature gradient field among innovative configurations was found based on the field coordination analysis. Heat transfer performance was enhanced by new designs where the average temperature compared to conventional heat sink with PE fans was reduced by 16.7°. Our work provided a new fins arrangement to achieve uniform temperature distribution and high heat transfer performance for heat sink integrated with PE fans and would benefit the application in thermal management of high power devices integrated with PE fans.

Study Finds Compact Carbon-Capture Modules Feasible on Offshore Production Facilities

_ This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 34825, “Implementation of Compact Carbon-Capture Modules on Offshore Hydrocarbon Production Facilities,” by Jaime H. Tan and Rizal A. Hassan, Technip Energies, and Umberto Cornelis, KANFA, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2024 Offshore Technology Conference. _ Carbon capture and storage has been implemented onshore successfully by different industries, including utilities and waste treatment, to capture CO2 from flue gases after the combustion of fossil fuels. Duplicating this success for offshore hydrocarbon processing facilities can be challenging because of deck-space constraints and marine environmental conditions. The complete paper describes the development of a compact carbon-capture module design for post-combustion carbon capture and its potential implementation on typical offshore hydrocarbon production facilities. Solvent Absorption Technology for Post-Combustion Carbon Capture The process technology at the core of the compact carbon-capture module is based on a solvent-absorption technique and a proprietary amine-based solvent. First, feed gas is quenched and saturated in a circulated water prescrubber. The gas contacts the lean amine solution in a countercurrent mass-transfer packed absorption column, and CO2 is absorbed while the treated gas exits to the atmosphere. Midway through the column, partially loaded amine is removed from the tower, cooled, and reintroduced over a layer of mass-transfer packing. CO2-rich amine from the absorption column is pumped through a lean-rich amine heat exchanger and then to the regeneration column. The rising, low-pressure saturated steam in the column regenerates the lean amine solution. CO2 is recovered as a pure, water-saturated product. Lean amine is pumped from the stripper reboiler to the absorption column for reuse in capturing CO2. Finally, the CO2 is directed to byproduct-management systems. The pure CO2 streams produced from the system may be sequestrated or used for applications such as enhanced oil recovery. Design of Offshore Carbon-Capture Modules For offshore applications, the carbon-capture modules must be more compact and lighter compared with carbon-capture systems developed for onshore applications. The absorber column is the critical component of the carbon-capture module because of its weight, footprint, and height. To reduce the overall height of the absorber for offshore application, an innovative configuration has been adopted: The bottom section of the absorber is placed on top of the prescrubber/direct contact cooler (DCC), and the top section of the absorber and the wash-water section comprise the second column. With this arrangement, the maximum height of the columns is limited to approximately 25 m. Because the lower absorber section is placed on top of the prescrubber/DCC, the in-between chimney tray is designed to be totally leakage-free to avoid losses of amines into the DCC water loop. A patent-pending compact absorber column design has been developed. The column wall construction will be a part of the overall module support structure, with cantilevered platforms for supporting carbon-capture equipment. The equipment for compression, injection, and treatment of CO2 is placed on a separate submodule. This module design benefits from footprint and weight savings of potentially more than 20% compared with typical cylindrical absorber column designs.

Innovative Cross-Sectional Configurations for Low-Cost Bamboo Composite (LCBC) Structural Columns

This paper investigates the effect of innovative cross-sectional configurations on Low-Cost Bamboo Composite (LCBC) structural members. The study employs both experimental and numerical methods with different resin matrices and bamboo species. In this study, LCBC short columns are designed with different innovative cross-sectional configurations in an attempt to overcome the costly production processes of engineered bamboo. This approach uses bundles of bamboo, both in culm and strip forms. A compatible, environmentally responsible, and economically justifiable resin matrix is used to fabricate an LCBC member. The production of LCBC members does not necessitate highly advanced technology. This capability enables the production of LCBC members in custom-designed cross-sectional shapes and lengths. This study introduces the Russian doll (RD), Big Russian doll (BRD), Hawser (HAW), and Scrimber (SCR) cross-sectional configurations. Extra-large, large, medium, and small sizes of bamboo are employed. Synthetic Epoxy (EXP), a Bio-based Experimental soft filler (BE1), Bio-Epoxy (BE2), Furan-based (PF1) matrices are applied. Furthermore, Moso, Guadua, Madake, and Tali bamboo species are incorporated. The results of this study reveal that the most efficient cross-sectional configuration for compressive strength is the HAW configuration, closely followed by the SCR configuration. LCBC members with bio-resins have shown excellent promise in competing in strength with those made with their synthetic counterparts. The maximum compressive strengths (MPa) were achieved by two specimens with synthetic epoxy closely followed by a specimen with bio-epoxy, namely HAW-EPX-M, RD-EPX-M, and RD-BE2-G specimens with 78 MPa, 75 MPa, and 72 MPa, respectively. In terms of the modulus of elasticity of LCBC with different resin matrices, the stiffest specimens were HAW-BE2-M1, HAW-EPX-M, and HAW-BE2-M2 with 3.89 GPa, 3.08 GPa, and 2.54 GPa, respectively. The theoretical and numerical modelling of the LCBC members showed excellent correlation with the experimental results, which provides the capacity to design LCBC for engineering projects. The LCBC design can be further developed with more bamboo and less resin content.

Optimal configuration of hydrogen storage capacity of hybrid microgrid considering peak regulation and frequency modulation requirements

This study proposes an innovative hydrogen storage capacity optimization configuration method that considers multiple demand factors, addressing the issue that traditional methods for optimizing hydrogen storage capacity in hybrid microgrids cannot simultaneously balance economic efficiency and grid connection quality. This method breaks through the traditional optimization framework and adopts a double-layer optimization model, combining the peak shaving operation cost of the hybrid microgrid with the interactive power deviation and power fluctuation penalty terms of the interconnection line during the frequency regulation stage, achieving dual optimization of economy and grid connection quality. Through precise mathematical modeling and efficient optimization algorithms, we have successfully obtained the minimum operating cost corresponding to the minimum power fluctuation, the minimum interconnection line interactive power deviation penalty term, and the optimal hydrogen storage capacity configuration scheme. Identify two typical days through cluster analysis. Option 1 (considering peak shaving, frequency regulation, and hydrogen electrolysis) has the lowest net load and a total operating cost of 3.0331 million yuan, which is better than Option 2 (3.0973 million yuan) and Option 3 (5.0398 million yuan). This plan effectively reduces wind and solar power waste, shortens the operating time of thermal power units, and demonstrates the rationality and economy of optimizing hydrogen storage capacity configuration.

Dual-mode Shear Horizontal / Rayleigh-like surface-acoustic-wave configuration on lithium niobate 64° Y-cut

Technologies based on surface acoustic waves (SAWs) find widespread use in wireless communications, signal processing, and sensing applications. In this study, we present an innovative dual-mode SAW configuration using a 64° Y-cut lithium niobate (LN) substrate. The conventional setup, employing interdigital transducers (IDTs) oriented along the crystal X-axis, is known for generating the shear horizontal mode (SH-SAW) with in-plane polarization. Conversely, by utilizing IDTs oriented perpendicular to the X-axis, we introduce effective excitation of a Rayleigh-like SAW (R-SAW), a novel achievement in our research. Through finite element simulations and electro-mechanical analyses, we comprehensively characterize these modes in terms of frequencies, polarizations, propagation losses, and temperature coefficients. Furthermore, we investigate their interaction with liquids by analyzing damping characteristics and acoustic streaming effects using particle image velocimetry (PIV). SH-SAWs exhibit a leaky displacement during propagation with minimal damping in liquids, resulting in weak acoustic streaming—ideal for real-time sensing applications in wet environments. In contrast, non-leaky R-SAWs, characterized by a strong displacement component normal to the surface, exhibit enhanced acoustic streaming, facilitating microfluidic operations. Additionally, R-SAWs demonstrate high sensitivity to mass loading, making them optimal for real-time sensing in dry environments. The ability to generate both SAW modes on the same substrate offers the potential to develop fully electrical-driven, multifunctional integrated sensing platforms with SAW-driven microfluidic capabilities. This unique capability promises novel solutions in bio-sensing, leveraging the complementary strengths of the two acoustic modes in detection and sample handling.

Fermion localization on the brane in Ricci-inverse gravity

This study aims to analyze the effects of modified gravity via anti-curvature tensor on a gravitational model set up within a 5-dimensional space–time, focusing on brane-world scenarios. The anti-curvature tensor introduces innovative configuration that is equal to the inverse of the Ricci tensor. In this analysis, we consider f(R,A)=(R+αA), where the coupling parameter α influences both vacuum regions outside the brane and the core region within it. Through analysis, this study uncovers alterations in fermion localization, particularly impacting left-chirality fermion. To quantify fermion localization, probabilistic metrics such as Shannon entropy and relative probability are employed, demonstrating a heightened level of certainty as α values increase. These findings shed significant light on the dynamics of extra-dimensional models, providing valuable insights into the realms of particle physics and cosmology.

Determining the thickness of a thin aluminum sheet using the transmission measurement of X-rays with varying energies: A comparative analysis between calibration curve fitting and artificial neural network approaches

This study proposes an innovative configuration for thickness measurement based on X-ray transmission, intending to improve the precision of measuring thin aluminum sheets. In this configuration, an activation sample containing Zr, Sb, and Ba elements is irradiated by 59.54 keV gamma rays emitted from three 241Am radioactive sources with a total activity of 1.78 GBq. Subsequently, the activation sample emits fluorescent X-rays at energy levels of 15.78 keV (Zr-Kα1,2), 17.67 keV (Zr-Kβ1), 26.36 keV (Sb-Kα1,2), 29.73 keV (Sb-Kβ1), 32.2 keV (Ba-Kα1,2), and 36.38 keV (Ba-Kβ1). These X-rays are collimated into a narrow beam, which then penetrates through an absorbing sample, and is ultimately recorded by a Si(Li) detector. Two different approaches are investigated to determine the thickness of absorbing samples including Calibration Curve Fitting (CCF) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The CCF approach requires constructing linear calibration curves for establishing the relationship between lnR (R is the ratio of the peak areas in measurements with and without absorbing sample) and the thickness of the absorbing sample at each X-ray energy level. The sample thickness is then determined by calculating a weighted average of the measured thicknesses associated with all analyzed energy levels. This approach requires in-depth understanding of radiation physics and proficiency in X-ray spectrum analysis. Meanwhile, the ANN approach uses raw spectra obtained by the Si(Li) detector to predict the thickness of aluminum sheets, facilitating analysis without requiring human intervention. The reliability of these approaches is evaluated through experimental measurements on aluminum sheets with thicknesses ranging from 0.064 cm to 1.074 cm. The results indicate that using X-rays with many different energies leads to superior accuracy in thickness measurements compared to using X-rays with a single energy. Besides, both the CCF and ANN approaches yield relative deviations of less than 3% between the predicted and reference thicknesses. It is important to emphasize that the ANN approach represents a promising solution for automated analysis without the intervention of experts.

Sustainable solar drying: Recent advances in materials, innovative designs, mathematical modeling, and energy storage solutions

The utilization of solar drying technologies has gained increasing importance in the context of sustainable and energy-efficient processes. This exploration delves into current trends in solar drying, specifically focusing on materials, designs, and their integration with energy storage solutions. Within the materials domain, we examine solar collectors, absorbers, and the impactful role of phase change materials (PCMs) in augmenting drying efficiency. Innovative designs and configurations are discussed, offering insights into advanced solar drying systems. Furthermore, the integration of energy storage technologies is highlighted, critical role of energy management in solar drying applications is emphasized. The assessment encompasses performance and efficiency enhancements, including mathematical modeling and the optimization of heat transfer processes. Challenges and potential future directions in solar drying are explored, along with the promising areas for ongoing research. The object is to provide a comprehensive perspective on the recent advancements in solar drying, offering valuable insights for sustainable practices and future developments.

CO2 Capture By Hybrid Electrolyte Membrane Electrode Assembly

In the pursuit of decarbonizing transportation sectors, there has been considerable enthusiasm from both industries and academia regarding the utilization of atmospheric CO2 as a chemical feedstock. To mitigate the energy requirements associated with carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration, research efforts are focused on developing and exploring electrochemical cell technologies. Here, we present an innovative solid oxide electrochemical cell configuration featuring a hybrid electrolyte membrane electrode assembly (HE-MEA) designed for efficient CO2 capture and separation. Our approach involves optimizing the process through the tuning of electrolyte and electrode compositions and operation conditions, aiming to capture CO2 effectively under various conditions. The investigation of the cathode's working mechanism, employing advanced characterization techniques, will be presented. This study marks a significant step forward in CO2 capture, particularly at elevated temperatures, and contributes to the broader effort of advancing sustainable practices in transportation and combating climate change.

Colorimetric IPN hydrogels embedded with colloidal photonic crystals: A novel approach for the detection of ethanol and Ba2+ ions in water

A critical bottleneck in sensor technology is the rapid and precise detection of specific analytes in complex matrices, hindering advancements in environmental monitoring, healthcare, and industrial process control. This study addresses this challenge by introducing a novel composite hydrogel sensor designed for rapid and selective detection of ethanol and barium ions (Ba2+) in aqueous environments. The sensor integrates interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogels with embedded colloidal photonic crystals (CPCs), synthesized via a solution-based polymerization approach. This innovative configuration allows CPCs to dynamically adjust their photonic bandgap in response to environmental changes, manifesting as a visible, colorimetric shift. This response stems from the synergy between the mechanical properties of the IPN hydrogel and the optical sensitivity of CPCs. Upon exposure to analytes such as ethanol and Ba2+, the sensor exhibits a rapid and reversible color transition that is directly proportional to their concentration. Notably, ethanol (0 vol%–80 vol%) and Ba2+ (5–17.5 mM) induce a distinct blueshift in the photonic bandgap and trigger a color change from red–orange to green due to the alteration in the swelling behavior of the IPN hydrogel, affecting its lattice constant. The IPN hydrogel–CPC composite demonstrates exceptional operational stability and facilitates rapid detection, making it ideal for on-site applications without the need for complex equipment. These characteristics make the composite hydrogel sensor a promising candidate for environmental monitoring, industrial process control, and public health diagnostics, paving the way for the development of next-generation responsive sensor materials.