Production Methods Research Articles

Surface state modulation of carbon dots for efficient generation of hydrogen peroxide

Electrocatalytic dual electron oxygen reduction to hydrogen peroxide (2e ORR) is considered a special and sustainable method for on-site continuous production of hydrogen peroxide. Oxygen doped carbon based materials have demonstrated their superiority in the generation of H2O2. However, there is still a lack of direct experimental evidence to determine the true active site on complex carbon surfaces. In this work, we introduce only carboxyl functional groups on the surface of carbon dots by a mild and simple synthesis method to study the specific COOH functional groups on the generation of H2O2. The H2O2 selectivity was correlated with the contents of COOH functional groups. In alkaline environments, the citric acid modified CDs (CA-OCDs) own excellent catalytic ability for 2e ORR, showing a maximum starting potential of 0.829 V (vs. RHE) and a high selectivity of 89.7% over a wide potential range of 0.2-0.7 V (vs. RHE). In actual H2O2 production, the Faraday efficiency (FE) of CA-OCDs can be up to 97%, and the yield achieves 838 mmol gcatalyst-1 h-1. This work provides an effective and simple strategy for designing efficient carbon-based catalysts for sustainable H2O2 electrosynthesis.

Reconstruction of Fe sacrifice protective layer enables highly effective CoP catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction at high current density

Under the background of “Green hydrogen,” the method of hydrogen production through coupling water electrolysis with renewable energy has raised heightened demands for fundamental hydrogen evolution catalysts. Recently, CoP-based catalysts have attracted much attention due to their excellent HER activity. However, the self-reconfiguration behavior of CoP in actual operation seriously affects its long-term hydrogen evolution stability. Herein, an in-situ reconstructed Fe sacrificial protective layer is proposed to inhibit the complete conversion of CoP in alkaline HER process and improve the stability of CoP-based catalysts. Through this sacrificial strategy, nearly 80 % of CoP is retained, forming a new Co(OH)2/COP as the active interface of HER. As result, the catalyst can maintain hydrogen evolution at high current density for more than 10 days, and show excellent dynamic response in start-stop experiment. In an Anionic Exchange Membrane electrode cell, a fully hydrolyzed water AEM cell needs only 1.9 V to drive 1 A cm−2 current density.

A review of the antimicrobial benefits of naturally extracted nanomaterials

Nanotechnology finds immense potential due to the unique characteristics of nanomaterials. Though noble metal nanoparticles, particularly gold and silver nanoparticles possess advanced properties their conventional production methods pose environmental hazards. This paper explores the eco-friendly approaches using natural sources for synthesizing gold and silver nanoparticles. Rose and pomegranate extracts were used to synthesize gold nanoparticles. Evaluation using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy confirmed the nanoparticle formation, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis recognized the presence of plant-derived compounds for stabilizing these particles. In-depth observations of their size and form were provided using electron microscopy, and these findings were aligned with the inferences made from the UV-Vis data. Silver nanoparticles were produced using Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract (OGE), exhibiting dose-dependent antimicrobial effects against bacterial strains. A comparative analysis demonstrated the distinct antibacterial characteristics of silver and gold nanoparticles against several bacterial strains. These nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced inhibitory effects when employed in combination with antibiotics, suggesting the possibility of dealing with antibiotic resistance. The study presents opportunities for producing nanomaterials with minimal impact on the environment and for addressing antibiotic resistance. Further research can enhance the process and find more useful applications as this green synthesis approach can bring about significant improvements in many areas.

Electricity Generation Using Waste Material

Abstract: In a world grappling with increasing energy demands and environmental concerns, innovative solutions are essential. This project explores a sustainable approach to electricity production by harnessing the potential within our everyday waste. By employing advanced technologies, we transform discarded materials into valuable resource for power generation. The process involves the efficient conversion of trash into electricity, mitigating both waste management issues and contributing to a cleaner energy landscape. Our study delves into the technical aspects, environmental impact, and economic viability of this unique electricity production method. Through the synergy of waste management and energy generation, we aim to pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Exploring the Potential of Renewable Energy to Enable Green Hydrogen Production for a Sustainable Future

Abstract – Amidst intensifying concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, the imperative to transition towards sustainable energy solutions is paramount. Renewable energy sources (RES) provide a promising avenue, especially in hydrogen production. In this context, the emergence of “green hydrogen” is pivotal. Green hydrogen is a concept produced using RES like solar and wind energy to power the hydrogen production process. Unlike conventional methods emitting carbon dioxide, green hydrogen is generated through water electrolysis using clean energy. India relies on coal for around 70% of its energy needs, leading to a 29% rise in carbon emissions from 2015 to 2022. Green hydrogen is a potential alternative solution to address the increasing energy demand and the depletion of fossil fuels. Using wind energy for water electrolysis emerges as a suitable method for green hydrogen production. Therefore, in the present study, assessed the potential of hydrogen production using the wind energy resources in five selected locations in India using ERA5 hourly wind data. The investigation further explored the characteristics of wind speeds at these locations using average wind speed, Weibull parameters and wind rose analysis. Using the SUZLON S95 wind turbine, power output and annual energy generation at each location were estimated. Further, estimated the annual hydrogen production and required storage capacity at each location. The results showed a power generation of 891 kW in location Una and 895 kW in Mandvi. Finally, the amount of carbon emissions mitigated due to the use of wind energy sources instead of conventional sources for H2 production is calculated.

Assessing Environmental Impact: Organosolv Extraction of Cellulose Pulp from Wood Waste

In the upcoming years, the paper industry is expected rely on containerboard for packaging, with approximately 80% of it being made from recycled fibers by 2020. Creating a new supply chain for fibers could help mitigate possible shortages. In this context, wood waste emerges as a valuable resource with the potential to serve as a plentiful and cost-effective reservoir for generating new materials, as cellulose fibers. This study presents an assessment of the environmental impact associated with the organosolv extraction of cellulose pulp from wood waste based on a previous in lab study conducted by the authors. The increasing demand for sustainable materials has prompted exploration into alternative methods for cellulose pulp production, with a focus on minimizing environmental footprint. Organosolv extraction, a promising technique, involves the use of organic solvents and acid catalysts to break down lignocellulosic biomass, resulting in high-quality cellulose pulp production. To evaluate the environmental implications of this process, a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was adopted. The LCA framework considers all stages of the organosolv extraction process, from wood waste collection to cellulose pulp manufacture, using a gate-to-gate approach. The functional unit for assessment is set as one ton of cellulose pulp. The dataset utilized for the LCA comprises primary data obtained from laboratory experiments, complemented by secondary data sourced from literature and the Ecoinvent life cycle inventory database. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the influence of key parameters on the environmental performance of the organosolv extraction process, with a focus on variations in energy consumption to identify potential areas for optimization and improvement. In summary, this study emphasizes the environmental aspects of utilizing organosolv extraction for cellulose pulp production from wood waste. Further research is warranted to explore energy consumption during the organosolv process for obtaining more precise data and optimizing the process. This could be achieved through pilot-scale experiments or utilizing process simulation software.

Recent Advances in Biochar: Synthesis Techniques, Properties, Applications, and Hydrogen Production

The field of material sciences has evolved vastly in the last two decades, largely due to the discovery of carbon nanomaterials such as graphene and its derivatives. Although they offer positive characteristics, the cost of production and material processing of these carbon nanomaterials has limited their application. However, scientists have started searching for cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternatives. Biochar, a carbonaceous material derived from biowaste, is the most viable alternative, as it offers characteristics on par with traditional carbon nanomaterials. This review will discuss the production of biochar from biomass, methods of production, the effects various conditions have on the production of biochar, biomass selection, current biochar applications, and the potential biochar has to produce hydrogen as an energy carrier.

A secure and efficient authentication key agreement scheme for industrial internet of things based on edge computing

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a pivotal driving force behind the intelligent transformation of the global industrial system, bringing about a gradual shift in production methods. However, due to users completing remote access and data transmission through open channels, ensuring user legitimacy and data security has become an important factor in IIoT. In addition, resource limited users or devices need to collect and publish corresponding messages while also timely processing instant messages obtained from the network. Leveraging edge computing technology effectively mitigates the transmission time of messages, addressing the challenges of high computing pressure and prolonged response time associated with cloud server computing. Therefore, investigating authentication key agreement based on edge computing in the IIoT environment holds substantial theoretical significance and practical importance. This article introduces an IIoT authentication that ensures both security and efficiency by integrating elliptic curve cryptography and three-factor authentication. Within this scheme, the user and the edge server accomplish security authentication. Through security analysis, the proposed scheme is proven to meet the essential security requirements. Performance analysis shows that it achieves higher security, supports more functions, and achieves lower computational and communication costs compared to related schemes.

Biosynthesis and Biotechnological Synthesis of Hydroxytyrosol

Hydroxytyrosol (HT), a plant-derived phenolic compound, is recognized for its potent antioxidant capabilities alongside a spectrum of pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. These attributes have propelled HT into the spotlight as a premier nutraceutical and food additive, heralding a new era in health and wellness applications. Traditional methods for HT production, encompassing physico-chemical techniques and plant extraction, are increasingly being supplanted by biotechnological approaches. These modern methodologies offer several advantages, notably environmental sustainability, safety, and cost-effectiveness, which align with current demands for green and efficient production processes. This review delves into the biosynthetic pathways of HT, highlighting the enzymatic steps involved and the pivotal role of genetic and metabolic engineering in enhancing HT yield. It also surveys the latest progress in the biotechnological synthesis of HT, examining innovative strategies that leverage both genetically modified and non-modified organisms. Furthermore, this review explores the burgeoning potential of HT as a nutraceutical, underscoring its diverse applications and the implications for human health. Through a detailed examination of both the biosynthesis and biotechnological advances in HT production, this review contributes valuable insights to the field, charting a course towards the sustainable and scalable production of this multifaceted compound.

Detecting Road Intersections from Crowdsourced Trajectory Data Based on Improved YOLOv5 Model

In recent years, the rapid development of autonomous driving and intelligent driver assistance has brought about urgent demands on high-precision road maps. However, traditional road map production methods mainly rely on professional survey technologies, such as remote sensing and mobile mapping, which suffer from high costs, object occlusions, and long updating cycles. In the era of ubiquitous mapping, crowdsourced trajectory data offer a new and low-cost data resource for the production and updating of high-precision road maps. Meanwhile, as key nodes in the transportation network, maintaining the currency and integrity of road intersection data is the primary task in enhancing map updates. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for detecting road intersections based on crowdsourced trajectory data by introducing an attention mechanism and modifying the loss function in the YOLOv5 model. The proposed method encompasses two key steps of training data preparation and improved YOLOv5s model construction. Multi-scale training processing is first adopted to prepare a rich and diverse sample dataset, including various kinds and different sizes of road intersections. Particularly to enhance the model’s detection performance, we inserted convolutional attention mechanism modules into the original YOLOv5 and integrated other alternative confidence loss functions and localization loss functions. The experimental results demonstrate that the improved YOLOv5 model achieves detection accuracy, precision, and recall rates as high as 97.46%, 99.57%, and 97.87%, respectively, outperforming other object detection models.

Adaptive dual teacher incremental learning for defect detection of flexible printed circuit

Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) is a high space utilization and high flexibility circuit board. Due to the flexible production method of FPC, new class defects will constantly appear during the production process. Existing methods for incremental class learning can enable the model to learn new class defects, however less attention is paid to the balance between old and new class defects. In addition, the knowledge of new class defects extracted by old class teacher is inaccurate because the teacher model has not learned new class defects. To address these issues, this paper proposes a model called Adaptive Dual Teacher Incremental Learning with Decoupled Feature Distillation for defect detection (ADT-ILDFD), which employs an adaptive dual-teacher model to adjusts the importance of old and new classes through adaptive modular learning during the training process, and thus better accommodate both old and new classes simultaneously in different incremental environments. In addition, decoupled feature distillation was designed, which decouples the feature knowledge in order to distill the feature knowledge extracted by old class model more accurately. Finally, we constructed the FPC defect dataset named FPCSD2023 and conducted experiments on both FPCSD2023 and NEU-DET to demonstrate the effectiveness of ADT-ILDFD.

Multi-Criteria Optimization of a Laboratory Top-Lit Updraft Gasifier in Order to Reduce Greenhouse Gases and Particulate Matter Emissions

Air pollution from combustion processes is harming human health and the environment. To mitigate this, one needs to adopt cleaner energy production methods, in particular, to optimize combustion systems in order to minimize pollutants and increase efficiency. Flue gas analysis and particulate matter (PM) monitoring, starting from the prototype phase, is crucial to minimize and regulate pollutant emissions. This article analyses the emissions of pollutants and particulate matter from a combustion test gasifier working on the Top-Lit Updraft (TLUD) principle in order to optimize functionality and reduce exhaust emissions. Three experiments were performed in which the primary (gasification) air flow rate (GA) was kept constant at 25 L/min, and the secondary (combustion) air flow rate (CA) was adjusted to obtain a CA/GA ratio of 2 (50 L/min), 3 (75 L/min), and 4 (100 L/min) respectively. Based on a multi-criterial analysis, the optimal CA/GA ratio for TLUD combustion is 3, offering a well-rounded performance in output temperatures, PM and greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, and efficiency, while the CA/GA ratio of 4 has good PM and GHG emissions performance but lower efficiency, and the CA/GA ratio of 2 is the least favorable due to its poor performance in output temperatures, PM and GHG emissions.

Business Network Analysis of Gurilem Crackers MSMEs In Cililin Sub-District, West Bandung Regency

In order to mitigate the elevated unemployment rate in Indonesia, the community must investigate other business prospects, such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), exemplified by Gurilem Crackers. Gurilem Crackers, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), possesses a robust and established infrastructure encompassing business networks, production methods, marketing strategies, and financial resources. These elements contribute to the improvement of firm productivity and market competitiveness. The data gathering method employed is descriptive qualitative, including interviews and observations. This study examines the business network, production processes, marketing tactics, and finances of Gurilem Crackers SME, which Mang Teten owns in the Bongas hamlet. The research findings suggest that Mang Teten's company utilizes business networking by collaborating with Gurilem cracker suppliers, employs essential production tools, relies exclusively on word of mouth for Gurilem Cracker marketing, and achieves a monthly profit of Rp—1,236,000.00 with a profit margin of 8.9%.

Techno-Functions and Safety Concerns of Plant-Based Peptides in Food Matrices.

Plant-based peptides (PBPs) benefit functional food development and environmental sustainability. Proteolysis remains the primary method of peptide production because it is a mild and nontoxic technique. However, potential safety concerns still emanate from toxic or allergenic sequences, amino acid racemization, iso-peptide bond formation, Maillard reaction, dose usage, and frequency. The main aim of this review is to investigate the techno-functions of PBPs in food matrices, as well as their safety concerns. The distinctive characteristics of PBPs exhibit their techno-functions for improving food quality and functionality by contributing to several crucial food formulations and processing. The techno-functions of PBPs include solubility, hydrophobicity, bitterness, foaming, oil-binding, and water-holding capacities, which subsequently affect food matrices. The safety and quality of foodstuff containing PBPs depend on the proper source of plant proteins, the selection of processing approaches, and compliance with legal regulations for allergen labeling and safety evaluations. The safety concerns in allergenicity and toxicity were discussed. The conclusion is that food technologists must apply safe limits and consider potential allergenic components generated during the development of food products with PBPs. Therefore, functional food products containing PBPs can be a promising strategy to provide consumers with wholesome health benefits.

Optimization and Comparative Methods for Efficient D-psicose Production Using Physicochemical and Enzymatic Processes

Optimization and Comparative Methods for Efficient D-psicose Production Using Physicochemical and Enzymatic Processes

Comparing visual inspection methods for parenteral products in hospital pharmacy: between reliability, cost, and operator formation considerations

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has led to unforeseen and novel manifestations, as illustrated by the management of drug shortages through the development of hospital production of sterile pharmaceutical preparations (P2S). Visual...

Assessment on Major Constrains of Enset (<i>Ensete ventricosum</i>) Landrace Production and Management Methods in Gurage Zone, Central Ethiopia

Enset (<i>Ensete ventricosum Cheesman</i>) is important crops in South, South western and Central part of Ethiopia. The assessment was conducted in major enset growing areas of Gurage zone during the 2021 cropping season with the objective of assessing major constrain of enset production and management methods at Cheha and Enemor Enore Woredas. The research site was selected with Gurage zine Agricultural office based on their enset production and cultivation. In each woredas four kebeles and five farmers were selected randomly. Farmers are growing enset landrace as intensive farming methods. In average 5-10 types of enset landraces were planting in their farm land. For propagating from 3-4 years enset landraces were preferred and germinating 50-100 sucker per plant. In both locations disease and wild animal is the major constrain of enset production. At Enemor Enore Woredas both disease and wild animal 60% and disease 25% whereas at Cheha worda disease 47.5% and both disease and wild animal 30% are the major constrains of enset production. In both location bacterial wilt is the major factors affecting enset production. In Cheha woreda 47.6% of enset landraces are tolerant to bacterial wilt reaction while 38.1% is susceptible whereas in Enemore Ener woreda 26.67% enset landraces are tolerant bacterial wilt while 23.33% is susceptible. The higher bacterial wilt prevalence was recorded in Cheha (77%) whereas in Enemore Ener woreda (57%). Among wild animal Porcupine and pig is the major factors for enset production. Therefore, for sustainable enset production, constant pest surveillance, planting a tolerant plant, Burring and rouging of the infected enset landrace, application of manure, removal of infected debris, and awareness creation are recommended to the local farmer.

Analysis of Socio-economic Impacts of COVID-19 on Agricultural Practices Using Stepwise Regression

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted rural farming communities, revealing significant shifts in economic factors, production methods, and farm management practices. This study, conducted in Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka, delves into the socio-economic ramifications of the pandemic on agricultural practices and the livelihoods of farmers. Utilizing a stepwise regression analysis approach, the research identifies influential variables such as changes in farm management, production, and health and sanitation facilities. Data were collected from 50 respondents during the pandemic's peak, employing statistical measures like mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation for comprehensive analysis. The findings underscore the intricate relationships between various factors affecting rural livelihoods and highlight the need for targeted interventions and policy measures. The study emphasizes the critical need for tailored policy interventions to address the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 on agricultural practices. Specifically, policy recommendations include enhancing access to agricultural extension services, promoting digital agricultural solutions, investing in healthcare infrastructure, supporting economic diversification, and strengthening social protection mechanisms. By aligning policy interventions with the findings and indicators observed in the research, policymakers can effectively support rural farming communities in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic and building resilience for the future.

Prioritising Yarn Quality Via Varying Top Roller Hardness: A Fuzzy Application

In recent years, the spinning or yarn manufacturing sector has seen remarkable technological advancements, emphasizing high-quality yarn production, especially for cotton combed ring spun yarns. In the case of better quality ring spun combed yarn, each part of the ring frame is significant. To fulfil this issue, this study focuses on understanding the impact of the drafting roller hardness on cotton-combed ring-spun yarn quality. It delves into how ten top and bottom roller hardness combinations influence yarn quality parameters. The cotton combed yarns underwent rigorous testing after spinning on ring frames with varying drafting roller hardness. Key quality parameters studied included yarn Imperfection Index (IPI), Unevenness (Ue%), Hairiness (Hi), Elongation at break (Eb%), and Count Strength Product (CSP), and Tenacity (Te). The primary insight was that extreme roller hardness adversely affects all parameters except Elongation at the break value obtained for the shore hardness value of 80/83. Yarns produced using medium-hardness rollers showcased fewer imperfections due to more consistent fibre flow and minimized drafting slippages, resulting in an even twist. These findings are pivotal for the yarn manufacturing industry, hinting at potential refinements in production methods. The usage of the Fuzzy DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) methodology also determined that Te CSP) and IPI values significantly influence the combed yarn quality when adjusting roller hardness, whereas Hi is the least influential. Therefore, this study offers twofold insights: determining the optimal roller hardness and identifying the most affected quality parameters.

Genetically Engineered Goats as Efficient Mammary Gland Bioreactors for Production of Recombinant Human Neutrophil Peptide 1 Using CRISPR/Cas9

Mammary gland bioreactors are promising methods for recombinant protein production. Human neutrophil peptide 1 (HNP1) exhibits antibacterial and immune-modulating properties. This study aims to establish a method to generate goats secreting HNP1 using the mammary gland as bioreactors. HNP1 transgenic goats were generated by using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to knock-in (KI) the HNP1 sequence into exon 7 of the goat β-casein (CSN2) gene under the control of the CSN2 promoter. One-cell stage embryos were cytoplasmically injected with a mixture of Cas9 mRNA, sgRNA, and a homologous plasmid including the T2A-HNP1 sequences, followed by transfer to recipient goats. A total of 22 live offspring goats were delivered, and 21 of these goats (95.45%) exhibited targeted edits at the CSN2 locus, and 2 female goats (9.09%) demonstrated successful HNP1 integration. Western blot and ELISA analyses confirmed the presence of HNP1 protein at high levels in the milk of these HNP1-positive goats, with mean concentrations of 22.10 µg/mL and 0.0092 µg/mL during the initial 60 days of lactation. Furthermore, milk from these transgenic goats exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, demonstrating the functionality of the expressed HNP1 protein. In conclusion, we established an efficient method for developing new transgenic goat lines as a mammary gland bioreactor, and the bioactive HNP1 protein secreted by the transgenic goat has the potential to combat microbial resistance.