Material Management Research Articles

Meta-analysis of ecological and phylogenetic biomass maturity metrics

Although a wide variety of biomass sources have been subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing, ecological and phylogenetic signatures of maturity have not been identified quantitatively. In this meta-analysis we reanalyzed data from the only published study with publicly available 16S and temperature data (Zhou et al., 2018), and then applied the Zhou results to 705 samples from 13 additional studies. Using the Zhou data, we found that Faith’s alpha diversity index correlated inversely with compost temperature and positively with maturity. We also noted a dramatic shift in the ratios of Bacilliota to Acidobacteriota, Planctomycetota, and Pseudomonadota, as samples cooled below 44 °C (p < 0.001). A negative correlation between Bacillota and Pseudomonadota was also observed in all 705 samples that included compost, sugarcane mill mud, anerobic digestates, and vermicompost. Even in the absence of temperature data for the majority of samples, our meta-analysis shows that microbiomes of diverse residuals converged on similar communities that resemble those of soil, regardless of the starting material or residual management process. We propose that approximately < 0.4 log(Bacillota:Pseudomonadota) and > 43 Faith’s phylogenetic diversity indices are indicative of maturity of diverse biomass materials destined for land application.

Sustainability assessment of additive manufacturing end-of-life material management

Additive manufacturing (AM) methods enable complex, customized, and on-demand production of many products from different material types across various industries. The growing demand for flexible and more sustainable manufacturing solutions places AM in the mix of processes considered for non-commodities. However, AM processes also present unintentional environmental releases in end-of-life (EoL) material management, compromising overall sustainability. Data availability to assess the sustainability of individual EoL material management from individual AM processes is limited. Even so, EoL materials generated across AM practices frequently overlap, supporting high-level assessment as an alternative approach. Therefore, a holistic AM EoL material management sustainability analysis was completed using a customized list of efficiency, environmental, energy, and economic indicators from the Gauging Reaction Effectiveness for the Environmental Sustainability of Chemistries with a multi-Objective Process Evaluator (GREENSCOPE) methodology. Subsequently, this assessment identified low material recycling rates and high energy costs in some EoL material management processes, such as incineration and recovery. Subsequently, a trade-off analysis was performed to determine process modification opportunities, including implementing recycling to reduce the amount of hazardous waste at the expense of additional energy and cost investment. The AM EoL-specific sustainability analysis serves as a resource to offer insights and empower policymakers and stakeholders to enhance pollution prevention strategies and optimize the existing EoL material management processes.

An Assessment of an Airline Company within the Scope of Circular Economy Based Waste Management

The rapid growth in the aviation sector has prompted the industry to act and develop new and sustainable business models due to the greenhouse gases and waste generated inherently by the sector. In this context, this study provides an assessment of identifiable areas and determinants of circular economy in an airline company, considering its environmental impacts. As a result of the assessment, it has been observed that the airline company conducts initiatives in reduction, reuse, and recycling, along with the management of cabin materials and waste segregation. Action plans are in place regarding the reduction, substitution, or elimination of single-use plastics in material selection. In order to mitigate both the environmental and economic impacts of paper consumption, the company is undertaking digitalization efforts within its business processes. The weight of aircraft is a crucial factor in the amount of fuel consumed and the quantity of CO2 emissions released. Therefore, airlines prefer to use lightweight materials inside the aircraft to reduce weight. Plastic catering materials are among these lightweight options. Unfortunately, due to the adverse environmental impacts of plastics, reducing their usage and, if possible, phasing them out are essential measures that airlines need to take. Consequently, the airline company under this study has removed the plastic outer packaging of the packaged materials used in the cabin. Furthermore, it continues its efforts to remove plastic materials used during catering services or replace them with biodegradable alternatives.

Implementing the Circular Economy in the European Union and Spain: Links to the Low-Carbon Transition

This paper reviews and analyzes the process of the implementation of the circular economy in the European Union (EU) and Spain, and its links to the low-carbon transition. The EU implementation of the circular economy went through several stages. Since the adoption of the first action plan in 1993, the links between the circular economy and carbon transition goals have become intertwined. Recently, the EU approved the framework of new monitoring measures and indicators for the circular economy. The adopted actions have involved the adaptation of European legislation at the national level. Spain has participated in this process since 2017, when the Circular Economy Pact was signed. The subsequent approval of the Spanish Strategy for a Circular Economy in 2020 was developed, considering a close relationship between decarbonization and the circular economy. Lately, the circular economy implementation has been strengthened with the strategic project for economic recovery and transformation, linked to the recovery of COVID-19, and the roadmap for the sustainable management of mineral raw materials, with both documents including actions directly related to transforming the energy system. Data show that Spain has made significant improvements in the circular economy transition. However, Spain’s vulnerability to externalities is greater than that of the EU as a whole.

Neuro-Architecture in Service of the Autism Spectrum: Designing a School Complex Adapted to Autistic Children in Northern Cameroon

This research explores the application of neuro-architecture in the design of a school complex adapted for autistic children in the northern region of Cameroon. The literature review highlights the specific characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the particular sensory needs of children with this condition in an educational setting. It analyzes how architecture, through the management of light, colors, materials, and spatial arrangement, can positively influence the well-being and learning of these children. By integrating the principles of neuro-architecture, the design of optimized school spaces can help reduce sensory overload and improve the social and educational inclusion of autistic children. This review also examines international case studies and potential adaptations to the geographic and cultural context of northern Cameroon, which is characterized by a lack of suitable educational infrastructure. The objective of this research is to propose architectural design solutions that meet the specific needs of autistic children while considering local constraints.

From Critical Raw Materials to Circular Raw Materials.

This perspective addresses the key challenge of advancing the use of Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) and proposes a transition towards circular raw material management. In the context of our current economy, the unsustainable consumption, environmental degradation, geopolitical risks, and economic vulnerabilities associated with CRMs highlight the limitations in ensuring long-term CRM availability, emphasizing the environmental, social, and economic implications. In response, this perspective underlines a multifaceted technological approach to mitigate CRM criticality, focusing on reducing CRM use, substituting CRMs with less critical materials, and enhancing recovery and recycling processes, with Design for Circularity as the most impactful solution. The latter advocates for a paradigm shift in product design and material utilization, emphasizing principles like modular design, product life extension, and the transition from product ownership to service models. Such a holistic approach is not only crucial for sustainable CRM management, but is also key to fostering a resilient and low-carbon economy.

Measuring IT Governance in ERP Systems: a COBIT 2019 Evaluation of SAP Material Management Module

Information technology systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) are crucial for companies to meet their business needs. However, as companies grow, challenges arise, particularly in the Material Management (MM) module within SAP. This study aims to identify issues such as data inaccuracies and material duplication during the interfacing process with SAP MM and assess IT governance capabilities using the COBIT 2019 framework. The methods used include interviews and literature review, focusing on the domains of APO12 (Managed Risk), BAI03 (Managed Solutions Identification &amp; Build), and DSS03 (Managed Problems). The results show that APO12 reached capability level 4, while BAI03 and DSS03 are at level 3, with a target of level 4. Recommendations include enhancing proactive system design evaluation, developing systematic procedures to address data issues, and implementing permanent solutions to prevent data duplication and inaccuracies during interfacing.

Advancing Circular Economy through Knowledge Transfer: A Decade of Research Insights

Economic growth and sustainable development are central themes of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations and adopted by the European Commission for EU member countries. Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) aligns with the SDGs, particularly through the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle (3Rs). This comparative analysis synthesises the contributions of multiple scholars, providing a cohesive understanding of current advancements and challenges in CE and sustainable resource management. Key themes include stakeholder collaboration, technological innovations, waste management, and policy frameworks. Effective waste management and valorisation of materials are highlighted, with significant advancements in electronic waste treatment, automotive shredder residue processing, and construction waste recycling. Moreover, the study emphasises the importance of cooperation through partnerships, as outlined in SDG17, and knowledge transfer in building trust within developed countries. The literature review reveals interactions between knowledge transfer components, such as research and development, foreign direct investment, and CE indicators, including circular material use rate and recycling rate. A bibliometric technique and VOSviewer were employed for visually representative and comprehensible literature analysis. The findings suggest that the integrated efforts of various stakeholders, technological advancements, and robust policy frameworks are essential for achieving a sustainable and circular future. By analysing these components, the research aims to evaluate the potential of EU member states to achieve sustainable development, providing valuable insights into the theoretical approaches and indicators used in CE and knowledge transfer studies.

Solvolysis and oxidative liquefaction of the end-of-life composite wastes as an element of the circular economy assumptions

In pursuit of sustainable development, recycling composite waste is a crucial challenge as well as an opportunity to support the progress towards eco-friendly materials management and circular economy practices. The current study brings together two modern recycling techniques solvolysis and oxidative liquefaction to recycle five types of composite waste materials including wind turbine blades (WTBs), composite pipes, personal protective equipment (PPEs) used in the medical sector, photovoltaic (PV) panels and municipal solid waste (MSW). Following a well-structured experimental design for each type of waste the solvolysis was performed at a temperature range of 100–190 °C, process time within the range of 1–3 h, and catalyst (TBD) concentration within the range of 0.015–0.025 mol, end with ethylene glycol and 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone in a 1:1 M ratio, while depending on the material evaluated, the oxidative liquefaction process was conducted at temperatures between 250 and 350 °C for WTB and between 200 and 300 °C for PPE, MSW, and PV. Oxidant concentrations, reaction time and pressure (15–45%, 30–90 min, 20–40 bar for WTBs, 30–60%, 45 min, 30 bar for remaining waste types) were studied in addition to highly variant waste-to-liquid ratio from 5 to 25% for WTB, 3–7% for PPE and MSW, and 12.5–37.5 for PV. Prior to experimental investigation, surface morphologies and chemical studies of the waste material were performed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared FT-IR spectroscopy, while after experimentation total polymer degradation (TPD) was calculated and liquid products were analysed through gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID). Following the solvolysis, 50–60% TPD was obtained, allowing for the recovery of glass fibres (GF) with average lengths of 50–60 mm and a maximum length of 650 mm. This allowed for the recovery of GFs with average lengths of 50–60 mm and a maximum length of 650 mm. In the case of oxidative liquefaction, total polymer degradation of 72–100%, 52–100% and 55–100% was achieved, depending on the investigated waste, i.e. WTB, PPE and MSW, respectively. The yield of oxygenated chemical compounds depended upon the types and composition of waste, but acetic acid was the main acid while WTB, PPE, and MSW, the liquid samples contained phenol also. Involved chemistry and possible degradation pathways of complex composite wastes are discussed in detail to enhance the recycling process and material recovery.

Open ecosystems restoration: a global review shows biases and mismatches between theory and practice

Ecological restoration aims to recover the structure, biodiversity, and function of degraded ecosystems. However, open ecosystems have been largely overlooked in restoration, and the extent of theory‐based restoration is unclear. We systematically review papers on open ecosystems restoration from 2011 to 2021, examining publication trends with data on restored site age, size, indicators, and assessment frequency. We also explore the relationships between interventions, indicators, and ecological concepts. By analyzing 343 papers, we found that open ecosystems restoration is concentrated in North America and Europe, with nearly 75% of restored areas originating in these continents. Restored areas are small, assessed for a short duration, with a plethora of indicators and no establishment of clear control or reference areas for meaningful comparisons. Common open ecosystems restoration sites interventions involved trees and shrubs management, soil management, seeding, and transfer of plant material as the main interventions. From our analyzed papers, we found that 30% of them mentioned any ecological concepts, with community assembly and succession being the most mentioned ones. Furthermore, our exploratory analysis revealed no relationship between interventions, indicators, and ecological concepts, suggesting a widespread mismatch between theory and practice. As the Decade for Ecosystem Restoration unfolds, we call practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders working on open ecosystems to address challenges and curtail widespread biases. Despite the uniqueness of each restoration project, a clear, well‐planned design encompassing site‐specific variables and solid theoretical bases is expected to enhance restoration outcomes, optimizing costs and biodiversity gains.

The HPLC-PDA Method for Simultaneous Determination of Regalosides from Bulbs of Lilium lancifolium Thunb. and Their Antioxidant Effects.

Lilium lancifolium Thunb. is a herbal medicine that is widely used to treat inflammation and lung diseases. In this study, a simultaneous quantitative method was developed for the quality control of BLL using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA), and their antioxidant effects were evaluated. Eight regalosides (i.e., regaloside A, B, C, E, F, H, I, and K) were selected as marker substances and separated on a Gemini C18 reversed-phase analytical column by gradient elution with distilled water-acetonitrile mobile phase containing 0.1% (v/v) formic acid. The method was validated with respect to linearity, sensitivities (limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ)), accuracy, and precision. The antioxidant effects of the extract and each component were evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay and 2-2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay. The coefficients of determination values used as indicators of linearity for all components were ≥0.9999. LOD and LOQ concentrations were 0.10-0.66 μg/mL and 0.29-2.01 μg/mL, respectively. The recovery was 95.39-103.925% (relative standard deviation; RSD ≤ 2.55%), and precision RSD was <2.78%. The HPLC-PDA method was applied to real samples, and all components were detected at 1.12-29.76 mg/freeze-dried g. The evaluation of antioxidant effects showed that regalosides C, E, and K exhibited significant antioxidant effects. Our knowledge will be appropriately utilized in raw material management and conducting clinical and non-clinical studies on L. lancifolium or herbal medicine prescriptions containing L. lancifolium.

Pengaruh Rantai Pasok Halal Terhadap Kinerja Produksi Makanan UMKM

The supply chain is a series of overall processes starting from the management, movement, storage and handling of raw materials, inventory of semi-finished goods, which ends with satisfied customers. Researchers use the R-A theory (Resource-Advantage Theory) to explain internal factors and the role of company performance. Researchers use quantitative research with survey methods with data collection techniques, namely questionnaires. The level of potential for the development of MSMEs in Jember Regency is large and continues to increase based on data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) Jember Regency also has the largest number of MSMEs in East Java with a total of 647,416. In addition, the market coverage it has is already extensive to various cities and provinces. This is supported by data obtained from media such as Jember radar, detik.com, Tv One, and Kompas Tv. Seeing from these data, its distribution and marketing in Mayang District are areas with the highest production compared to other areas. The population in this study were all Mayang Peanut Cake MSMEs as many as 31 Mayang Peanut Cake MSME business actors in Jember Regency. The results of this study used multiple linear regression analysis by conducting a t-test (partial) and f-test (simultaneous). The results of the analysis indicate that partially the three variables in this study, namely the halal supply chain, HR quality, marketing have a positive and significant influence on production performance. Simultaneously, the three independent variables in this study have a positive and significant influence on the performance of MSME food production.

Management of diabetic retinopathy in pregnancy

Introduction The onset and development of diabetic retinopathy are more common during pregnancy. Pregnancy has no long-term effect on diabetic retinopathy; however, in 50-70% of cases, changes in retinopathy continues. The probability of worsening is highest in the second trimester and up to one year postpartum. Additional factors that have been associated with disease progression include duration of diabetes, the degree of retinopathy at the time of conception, management of hyperglycemia, anemia, and development of associated hypertension. In cases of severe non-proliferative retinopathy, it is recommended to promptly initiate laser photocoagulation rather than wait for early proliferative changes. Maintaining good diabetic control before and during pregnancy can help prevent disease progression and serious vision loss. Material and methods Diabetic retinopathy management in pregnancy was the subject of a comprehensive review of the scientific and medical literature. A structured search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus and HINARI databases, considering relevant articles published in the last 10 years. The search terms used (in English) were: „Diabetic retinopathy”; „pregnancy”; „laser photocoagulation”; „intravitreal steroids”; „anti-vascular endothelial growth factor”. Results It is suggested that women with diabetes receive pre-conception and post-pregnancy counselling from a multidisciplinary team including an ophthalmologist, endocrinologist, and perinatologist, as diabetic retinopathy may worsen during pregnancy. The risk of progression of the disease and the importance of appropriate metabolic control before and during pregnancy should be clearly explained to the patient. Careful monitoring is required in patients with advanced gestation, significant retinopathy, concomitant hypertension, and nephropathy. Conclusion The risk of retinopathy development may increase during pregnancy. Serious effects can arise for both the mother and the fetus, even though retinopathy is not common during pregnancy. It is possible to avoid significant retinopathy by carefully planning a young diabetic woman's pregnancy and proceeding promptly to laser photocoagulate in cases of severe non-proliferative retinopathy. A tendency for regress is frequently seen in diabetic retinopathy during the post-natal period. Subsequent pregnancies do not significantly increase the risk of progression if the retinopathy is stable before pregnancy.

Innovative Timber Upcycling: Digital Strategies for Prolonging Timber Lifespan and Promoting Reuse.

Abstract This paper explores the intersection of digital and ecological transitions, crucial for achieving the European Green Deal’s sustainability targets. The construction sector, traditionally reliant on a linear “take-make-dispose” model, is gradually integrating timber, favored for its lower environmental impact compared to steel and concrete. Our research enhances the reuse of timber from demolition sites, leveraging digital technologies to extend the lifespan of timber elements and improve its carbon sequestration capabilities. This research is part of a broader initiative, the DeDa research, at the School of Architecture and Design, University of Camerino, focusing on sustainable material management in post-disaster areas. These areas, seen as ‘material banks,’ pose unique challenges due to the abundance of materials that are difficult to manage. The research comprises three integrated phases: establishing a digital material bank of timber elements, design optimization with available elements and their automated assembly. This system is underpinned by an ecosystem of digital technologies, including photogrammetric surveying, computational design, and robotic manufacturing. Considering the currently low technological level of conventional building processes, this work maintains a highly experimental character. However, presenting this research provides an opportunity to explore how digital technologies might promote circular-based building processes and encourage a shift in perspective and practices within the building industry.

Experimental Case Study on Mixed Ignition According to the Law of Safety Management of Hazardous Materials

Experimental Case Study on Mixed Ignition According to the Law of Safety Management of Hazardous Materials

ANALYSIS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF IMPROVEMENT OF TUBE MATERIAL HANDLING TO SPEED UP THE PICKING PROCESS AT THE RAW MATERIAL WAREHOUSE OF PT. DSV SOLUTIONS INDONESIA (SEMARANG BRANCH)

Warehouses that store various types of materials such as raw materials, semi-finished goods, and finished goods play an important role in the company's logistics system. Warehouse activities are highly dependent on the speed and accuracy of material and information management. This study aims to evaluate the activities of tube material handling strategies in the Raw Material Warehouse of PT DSV Solutions Indonesia Semarang Branch with a focus on identifying activities, impacts on time and costs, as well as risks and obstacles in the tube material picking process. The company's target is to complete 100% within 5 hours, but during July-December 2023 the target has not been achieved. This research uses a qualitative approach, data collection through observation, interviews, and documentation conducted with qualitative analysis. The results of the research on material handling tubes in the Raw Material Warehouse of PT DSV Solutions Indonesia Semarang Branch show that the current storage system is not optimal. The material picking and sorting process is less than optimal when the material is stored in the original box from the customer which contains several SKUs (Stock Keeping Units). As a result, one retrieval process takes 100 minutes and costs Rp 30,720 in employee salaries. In addition, the current storage system risks hindering the achievement of company targets, extending process time, and increasing the risk of material damage. The conclusion of this study is that the tube material handling strategy in the Raw Material Warehouse of PT DSV Solutions Indonesia Semarang Branch is not optimal and needs improvement regarding storage. The use of more organised material handling in tube material storage can improve picking activities and reduce processing time, costs, and the risk of material damage.

E-Waste Management in Nam Theun 2 Power Company Limited: A Review of Issues, Challenges and Solutions

This paper reviews the e-waste management practices of Nam Theun 2 Power Company (NTPC), one of the leading power generation companies in Laos. The study focuses on the company's use of Total Environmental Solutions – Asset Material Management (TES-AMM), a leading e-waste recycling company, to manage their e-waste. In this paper, a mixed-methods research design has been applied, including a survey of employees and interviews with key stakeholders at NTPC, as well as document analysis to assess the company's compliance with the relevant regulations and standards. The results of the study indicate that NTPC has an effective e-waste management system in place that is compliant with the relevant regulations and standards, but it also highlights opportunities for improvement. The study also provides an overview of TES-AMM's e-waste recycling process, which is found to be in line with international standards. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the specific challenges and opportunities for improving e-waste management in the power generation industry part in Laos.

Synergistic ternary deep eutectic solvents: An archetype for sustainable and eco-conscious Li and Co recovery from spent batteries

The development of sustainable materials for energy is a critical challenge in the pursuit of a circular economy. This study presents an innovative approach for recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using a novel, sustainable deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of glycine, ascorbic acid, and water. This natural, chloride-free ternary DES leverages the biocompatible and eco-friendly properties of its constituents, achieving exceptional leaching efficiency of 99.1 % for lithium and 97.9 % for cobalt under optimized conditions. A multifaceted methodology integrating advanced factorial design, kinetic modeling, and machine learning was employed to refine the process parameters and enhance leaching efficiency. The extraction kinetics were predominantly governed by endothermic surface reactions, characterized by activation energies of 81.5 kJ/mol for Co and 110.9 kJ/mol for Li. An ensemble neural network model accurately predicted the extraction with an R2 > 0.95, demonstrating the robustness of the computational approach. The DES exhibited excellent recyclability over five cycles, thereby emphasizing its potential for practical industrial applications in the field of sustainable materials management. This approach facilitated the selective recovery of high-purity lithium oxalate and cobalt oxalate, underscoring the efficiency and environmental benefits of the process. DFT calculations provided insights into the extraction mechanism, revealing the crucial role of hydrogen bonding and synergistic effects of the DES components. This pioneering study not only advances LIB recycling but also establishes a comprehensive, quantitatively validated framework, paving the way for future innovations in sustainable materials management and supporting global efforts towards a circular economy in energy storage.

Assessment of Materials Management Practices in the Selected Public Service Sectors in the Case of Debre Markos City Administration Bureau

One of the main life bloods for operating every institutional task are materials. As a result, the objective of this study was to assess materials management practices in the selected public service institution in the case of DMSCAB. The researcher employed mixed research approach with a descriptive and explanatory research design to achieve the objective. The data was obtained from primary and secondary sources of data. the primary data was obtained via prepared closed ended questionnaire and interview. The researcher has used various statistical tests to measure whether the entered variables are explaining the dependent variable or not. Among various tests validity and reliability, normality, autocorrelation, and multi collinearity tests have been employed in this study. The main finding of the study indicated that planning activity, specialized or professional expert, integration activity and policy environment was statistically significant at 5% level of significance in explaining the materials management practices and discovered that there is poor materials management practice in their sector. Finally, the researcher concluded that effective materials management practices is still infant. Therefore, the researcher has extended some recommendations to the targeted sectors. Sectors should form a new structure for introducing and recognizing the basic necessity of materials management practices in their operation.

Klasterisasi Penggunaan Ban dengan Cost Per Kilometer Terendah pada PT. PL menggunakan Metode K-Means

Established in 1969, PT. Puninar has grown to become one of Indonesia's leading logistics companies. The company provides a broad range of logistics solutions through its subsidiaries, encompassing material management, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, customs services, freight forwarding, and post-delivery operations. After fuel, tires represent the second-largest expenditure for the company. Proper tire management can reduce maintenance costs, making it a key cost-reduction strategy in the logistics sector. This study utilizes data mining techniques, specifically the K-means method, to analyze and classify tires based on travel distance and the lowest cost per kilometer, enabling monthly cost monitoring. PT. Puninar allocates approximately two billion rupiah per month for tire inventory due to its fleet of over seven hundred trucks. The company currently employs various tire brands, including Bridgestone, Doublecoin, Effiplus, Chengsang, and others, with varying levels of durability.