Reduce Energy Costs Research Articles

Self-Reconstruction of High Entropy Alloys for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution.

Alkaline water (H2O) electrolysis is currently a commercialized green hydrogen (H2) production technology, yet the unsatisfactory hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance severely limits its energy conversion efficiency and cost reduction. Herein, PtRu2.9Fe0.15Co1.5Ni1.3 high entropy alloys (HEAs) is synthesized and subsequently exploited electrochemically induced structural oxidation processes to construct self-reconfigurable HEAs, as an efficient alkaline HER catalyst. The optimized self-reconstructed PtRu2.9Fe0.15Co1.5Ni1.3 HEAs with the HEAs and cobalt rutheniate interface (HEAs-Co2RuO4) exhibits excellent alkaline HER performance, requiring just 11.8mV to obtain a current density (j) of 10 mA cm-2 in 1m KOH. And the j on HEAs-Co2RuO4 is 41.8 mA cm-2 at 0.07 VRHE, 2.0 and 6.1 times higher than PtRu2.9Fe0.15Co1.5Ni1.3 HEAs and 20% Pt/C. Mechanism studies reveal that the improved alkaline HER performance of HEAs-Co2RuO4 is due to the formation of HEAs-Co2RuO4, which significantly shrinks the Helmholtz layer, provides a new fast material transport channel, boosts H2O adsorption, and reduces hydrogen adsorption, and thus accelerates the alkaline HER. This research not only throws new light on the self-reconstruction of catalysts but also provides guidance for the rational design of efficient electrocatalysts.

Evaluation of the potential of phage phSE-5 to fight Salmonella typhimurium in milk, liquid whole egg and eggshell.

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of phage phSE-5 to inactivate Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium in milk (at 4, 10 and 25°C), liquid whole egg and eggshell (at 25°C for both matrices). Since the success of phage treatment in food depends on maintaining phage viability towards different food conditions, firstly the stability of phage phSE-5 at different temperatures and pHs was assessed. The effect of phage phSE-5 against S. Typhimurium was then assessed in vitro (liquid culture medium-TSB) and finally in the selected food matrices. Phage phSE-5 was stable for long storage periods (56 days) at pH 7-8 and 4-25°C. At 25°C, the efficacy of phage phSE-5 was matrix-dependent with differences in the sample, relatively to the bacterial control, of 2.7, 4.6, 1.8 and 1.3 log colony-forming units (CFU) mL-1 in TSB, milk, liquid whole egg and eggshell, respectively. Also, phage phSE-5 led to reductions relatively to the initial bacterial concentration only in TSB and milk with 1.9 and 2.1 log CFU mL-1 reduction, respectively. Additionally, this phage was more efficient at 25°C in the tested matrices than at 10°C (no reduction and 1.7 log CFU mL-1 reduction in TSB and milk respectively; maximum difference of 1.7 and 3.3 log CFU mL-1 in TSB and milk, respectively) and 4°C (no bacterial reduction/difference was observed in both TSB and milk). However, the decrease in temperature from 25 to 10°C slowed down bacterial regrowth after phage treatment. Our results show that phages are promising and environmentally friendly candidates for use as biocontrol agents against S. Typhimurium in milk, liquid whole egg and eggshell, allowing a reduction in energy costs if carried out at 10°C. Salmonella Typhimurium is frequently found in contaminated milk and eggs. Despite the available food decontamination methods, these are usually associated with changes in the organoleptic properties of the food. Phages can be applied as an alternative option to inactivate foodborne bacteria and improve food safety, without affecting food organoleptic properties.

Climate and performance-driven architectural floorplan optimization using deep graph networks

PurposeThis study introduces a novel approach to generating and optimizing energy-efficient and climate-responsive architectural floorplans.Design/methodology/approachThe DGraph-cGAN model utilizes advanced deep-learning techniques to produce diverse, realistic layouts that meet specific design constraints and functional requirements.FindingsThe results show significant energy savings (32.1% overall) across different building types and climate conditions, with reductions in energy use intensity, CO2 emissions and annual energy costs. Case studies demonstrate notable improvements in energy savings, CO2 emission reduction, daylight autonomy, thermal comfort and cost savings.Practical implicationsThe DGraph-cGAN model has great potential for advancing architectural design optimization, with opportunities for further refinement and application in various contexts.Originality/valueThis study contributes to developing a novel approach to optimizing architectural floorplans using deep learning techniques. It provides a valuable tool for architects and designers to create energy-efficient, climate-responsive buildings.

The effect of synthetic wax additives on adhesive properties of bitumen binders

Introduction. Currently, in road construction, in order to reduce energy costs and harmful emissions, warm asphalt concrete mixture technologies are being increasingly used. One way to reduce the temperature of asphalt concrete mixture prepared is to use additives based on natural and synthetic waxes. In this regard, it is important to study the influence of wax additives on the properties of bitumen binder as a basic component of asphalt concrete mixture. The adhesion between the binder and the mineral filler is the most important property that determines the durability of an asphalt concrete pavement. The purpose of this article is to study the effect of synthetic wax additives on the adhesive properties of bitumen.Materials and methods. The characteristics of the studied synthetic wax additives Viskodor PV-2, Sasobit and Licomont BS-100 have been presented. To simulate binder aging, the heating method in a thin layer, according to GOST 18180, was used with the temperature control time increased to 9 hours. To assess the adhesion between original and modified bitumen binder, as well as the aged binder, the method of boiling stone material coated with bitumen was used, and the assessment of its appearance in accordance with GOST 11508 was made. The study of the adhesion mechanism for the bitumen binder and the mineral filler was carried out by means of spectral analysis.Results and discussion. The influence of synthetic wax additives on the adhesion between bitumen binder and mineral material was analyzed. A change in the adhesive properties of bitumen modified with the studied additives during thermal-oxidative aging was revealed. A comparison was made of the IR spectra of the original and modified bitumen before and after interaction with stone material and the differences in the mechanisms of affecting the adhesion to the mineral filler by the introduced additives were determined. It has been established that the Viskodor PV-2 additive significantly improves bitumen adhesion. Moreover, the effect of improved bitumen adhesion with this additive remains after thermal-oxidative aging, though slightly reduced. Imported additives Sasobit and Licomont BS-100 have a significantly less impact on the adhesive properties of bitumen.Сonclusion. The results obtained show that the use of synthetic wax additives improves the adhesive properties of bitumen, which can positively affect the durability of the road surface. Since the domestic additive Viskodor PV-2 is superior in the effect of improving the adhesive properties of bitumen compared to the studied additives Sasobit and Licomont BS-100, the introduction of this additive into production instead of expensive imported additives will provide both improvement in the quality of asphalt concrete pavement and reduction of costs.

Evaluation of Green Building Technologies (GBTS) By Construction Professionals in Southwest Nigeria

The adoption of Green Building Technologies (GBTs) is increasingly recognized as a promising approach to enhancing the sustainability performance of buildings, generating significant interest in the global construction community. However, barriers such as the lack of local expertise in green building practices and insufficient awareness highlight the need for effective strategies to promote broader adoption of GBTs in building development. This study aims to identify the benefits of adopting GBTs and assess their level of implementation by professionals in Southwest Nigeria. Following a comprehensive literature review on factors hindering GBT adoption in the region, empirical data were collected through a questionnaire survey of 300 green building experts across Nigeria. The analysis confirmed the significance of 12 challenges affecting GBT implementation in Southwest Nigeria. Key benefits identified include reduced energy costs, improved occupant comfort and productivity, enhanced indoor air quality, and lower maintenance costs. These were ranked as the top four benefits driving the adoption of GBTs. The findings provide valuable insights to help practitioners and policymakers develop effective strategies for promoting GBT adoption, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of buildings. Future research will explore the economic benefits associated with the adoption of green building technologies in Southwest Nigeria

Harnessing low-temperature geothermal resources in the state of Jalisco, Mexico

Despite Jalisco's rich geothermal resources, its low-temperature energy has primarily been used in recreational facilities like spas. However, the state offers significant potential for a broader range of applications, including space heating, industrial processes, and agriculture. While the Federal Electricity Commission has focused on high-temperature reservoirs for electricity generation, the potential of low-temperature geothermal energy has been largely overlooked. Although the private sector has begun exploring this resource, its involvement remains limited. Jalisco possesses substantial reserves of both high and low-temperature geothermal energy. Harnessing this energy can contribute to reducing fossil fuel dependency, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering sustainable development. Its utilization can yield economic, social, and environmental benefits, such as job creation, reduced energy costs, and climate change mitigation.

INFLUENCE OF MICROWAVE ACTIVATION OF COAL ON ITS PETROGRAPH-IC PROPERTIES

Despite the development of renewable sources, coal occupies an important place in the energy balance of many countries, especially those with large reserves. One of the ways to influence the characteristics of coal and add specified properties to it is its preliminary microwave activation. As a result of the studies, it was found that with microwave activation with an electromagnetic field power of 750 W for 240 s, an ambiguous effect on the characteristics of coal samples is observed, namely, coal with R0 greater than 1.16 before activation, microwave activation occurs faster, while the vitrinite reflectivity increases to 1.58 %, the yield of volatile substances and the thickness of the plastic layer decrease. Coals of a high stage of metamorphism are activated faster due to a denser structure. The presence of a more ordered structure than less metamorphosed coals, during the activation process, the condensed carbon layers come closer together, which ultimately increases their metamorphism stage. On the contrary, for coal with R0 less than 1.03 before activation, microwave activation is slower, while the vitrinite reflectance index decreases to 0.75 %, the yield of volatile substances and the thickness of the plastic layer increase. Obviously, this is due to the fact that coal of a low metamorphism stage is characterized by a less dense structure and more time is needed for its activation. Also, to increase the metamorphism stage, it is necessary to apply more energy so that the formed radicals and structural units connect with each other and form an ordered aromatic structure. Therefore, for coals of a low metamorphism stage, the activation time should be longer. The research results indicate the possibility of changing the coal metamorphism stage, which will increase the efficiency of coal processing processes, reduce energy costs and minimize harmful emissions due to the use of microwave technologies. In addition, the use of microwave activation can expand the raw material base for various coal technologies, especially in conditions of fuel shortage.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Ethanol Conversion through the Addition of a Heat Exchanger and Reactor in the Catalytic Dehydration Process for Ethylene Production from Ethanol

Ethylene production requires high energy costs, and the composition of the ethanol feed is not very pure. The aim of this research is to reduce energy costs slightly while still increasing conversion to obtain a purer ethanol conversion. To achieve this goal, the method used is to add one more heat exchanger and one more reactor. The results obtained turned out that by adding a heat exchanger, we do not need cooling water, but can utilize the output of cryogenic distillation. An energy efficiency of 73.56% obtained and the ethanol conversion obtained was also close to pure with the presence of two reactors with a value of 99.2%. Further process creation is needed to be able to optimize the ethylene production process which is more environmentally friendly, such as making ethylene with bioethanol as feed. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).

A СOMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO PREVENTING MOLD GROWTH OF SOLID ORGANIC WASTE FROM CONFECTIONERY PRODUCTION AS THEIR SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT

Waste sustainable management involves both minimizing their quantity by improving technological processes and using waste as resources. A large amount of solid organic waste from confectionery industries contains food elements that can be used as additives in compound feeds production. This reduces compound feeds cost without losing their quality, and also provides for the secondary use of solid organic waste from confectionery industries, which corresponds to the generally accepted waste management hierarchy. The main limiting factor for this waste type using in compound feeds is mold fungi rapid development, which is due, among other things, to an increase in the waste humidity when stored in an open manner at industrial sites. The aim of the work was to research developed integrated approach effectiveness to increase the shelf life without the mold fungi appearance for solid organic waste from confectionery industries. The following research methods were used in the work: field – to observe the mold fungi development in real storage conditions of solid organic waste from confectionery industries in an open way; laboratory – to determine the moisture content of waste at different times according to DSTU 4910:2008 and sanitary and mycological waste assessment. The use of the simplest measures to reduce the atmospheric contact precipitation with solid organic waste from confectionery industries – canopies – allows us to increase the period until the mold fungi appearance by 20 or more days, depending on the waste composition. Faster mold fungi development is characteristic of waste that contains more than 50 % wafers with fat filling. Solid organic waste from confectionery industries treatment with humic acids alkaline solution obtained from brown coal increases the period until the mold fungi appearance by an average of 50 days. The two methods combination is effective for increasing the shelf life of solid organic waste from confectionery industries before their use in compound feeds. Thus, it is possible to increase the share such waste use in compound feeds. The proposed integrated approach to increasing the shelf life of solid organic waste from confectionery industries allows to increase the waste share that is suitable for secondary use in compound feeds. The humic acids alkaline solutions using as a bactericidal measure for solid organic waste from confectionery industries is justified from the sustainable approach for brown coal using, allows to increase the nutritional value of the final compound feeds and reduces energy costs for mold fungi elimination.

SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION IN NIGERIA: A SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS

Sustainable construction practices represent a critical pathway towards fostering economic development and social well-being within the Nigerian construction industry. This research aims to elucidate the socioeconomic impacts of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria, employing a quantitative approach and utilizing simulated data for analyses. Through a comprehensive survey of 370 construction industry professionals, this study investigates the perceptions of sustainable practices such as energy efficiency, cost reduction, and local economic development. Findings revealed a strong consensus among respondents regarding the positive socioeconomic impacts of sustainable strategies, showcasing correlations between these practices and economic growth, job creation, and the appreciation of property values. The regression analysis highlighted the significant influence of these sustainable practices on socioeconomic aspects, emphasizing the interconnectedness between sustainable construction and economic advancement. The implications of this study underscore the importance of integrating sustainable strategies within the Nigerian construction sector, advocating for policy adjustments to leverage the benefits of these practices. This research contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable construction practices, emphasizing their potential to drive economic growth and enhance community well-being within Nigeria.

Investigation of the Effect of the Homogenization Regime on Energy Costs and Shelf Life of Yogurt with Dogberry Puree

Introduction. Homogenization is one of the most significant factors ensuring the successful implementation of the technology for manufacturing various dairy products. During this process, there are changed the properties and structure of proteins. In particular, there is decreased the size of casein micelles, which break down into submicells. After that, the accumulation of submicells on the surface of fat particles is likely. The increase in the homogenization pressure amplifies the mechanical effect on the particles, therefore, the average size of fat globules decreases.Aim of the Study. The study is aimed at reducing energy costs for manufacturing dairy products while ensuring the maximum preservation of the quality of dairy products.Materials and Methods. There has been studied the influence of homogenization pressure on the process technical parameters such as the power used for the homogenizer drive and for the dynamics of changes in the product properties during storage. The analytical dependences describing the main parameters of homogenization are considered.Results. Compliance with the recommended homogenization parameters and other para­meters, in particular heat treatment, can significantly increase the product shelf life without significant changes in the initial quality indicators. If the process conditions allow crushing the initial fat particles to a size of about 1.0 micrometer and distributing them evenly throughout the volume, it makes possible to get a significant improvement in the taste and consistency of the resulting products. There has been studied influence of homogenization parameters on the shelf life of yogurt manufactured according to the proposed formula with using southern fruits, in particular, with dogberries.Discussion and Conclusion. Taking into account the results of experimental studies, we have concluded that the energy costs are significantly affected by the homogenization pressure (absolute value) and the ratio of pressure values at various stages of homogenization. The product manufactured according to the proposed formula with crushed dogberries preserves good taste, microbiological properties, and physical and chemical specified parameters for 14–15 days. It follows that the shelf life of yogurt manufactured according to the proposed formula should not exceed more than fourteen days at a temperature of no more than +6 °C.

Development of a magnetic activator to protect an electric water heater against scale formation

The paper is dedicated to the research and development of a magnetic activator for the prevention of scale formation in electric water heaters, which is a pressing problem in regions with hard water, typical for Сentral Kazakhstan. During the operation of water heaters, salt deposits on heating elements lead to increased energy consumption and reduced efficiency. The developed activator uses powerful neodymium magnets that change the structure of the hardness salts in the water, preventing their deposition in the form of scale. Research has shown that the use of a magnetic activator can reduce water hardness by 15–20 %, resulting in a significant reduction in scale formation. In particular, under normal operating conditions, the thickness of the scale layer can reach 2–4 mm, but with the use of the magnetic activator this indicator is reduced to less than 1 mm. Descaling the heating elements not only extends the life of the water heater, but also reduces energy costs. Energy consumption is reduced by 10–15 %, as water heaters with less scale work more efficiently without requiring additional energy for heating. The paper also discusses the design features of the magnetic activator, the principles of its operation and the results of laboratory and field tests. Economic analysis has shown that the installation of the magnetic activator pays for itself within 1–2 years due to the reduction in limescale and energy costs. This makes it an attractive solution for private households as well as for industrial companies that use water heaters in their production process, as the proposed magnetic activator is an effective solution for protecting water heaters from the negative effects of hard water

Models for building Internet of Things networks for city infrastructure management

The work considers modern approaches to the implementation of IoT technologies for effective management of urban infrastructure. The main focus is on the analysis of network architectures used for data collection and transmission in smart city systems. Various network construction models are compared, including single-hop and multi-hop networks, as well as WSN topologies. The work focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of these networks in the context of energy consumption, scalability and stability. Special attention is paid to hierarchical models that allow to reduce energy costs and increase network efficiency. The application of IoT in key areas of urban infrastructure, such as transport, energy and water supply, is analyzed. The issue of cyber security of IoT systems, including authentication, data encryption and ensuring communication reliability, is also discussed in detail. The role of CPS and sensor nodes that provide real-time monitoring and control of urban resources is discussed separately. Mathematical models for traffic optimization in IoT networks are considered, in particular, the use of queuing theory to ensure QoS. Conclusions have been drawn regarding the effectiveness of IoT implementation for urban resource management, which allows to increase the reliability of urban infrastructure and improve the living conditions of residents. The use of microservice software in IoT systems is substantiated and the directions of scientific research aimed at and its implementation in IoT-systems of management of infrastructure objects. The study opens up new perspectives for the application of IoT in smart cities and indicates the need for further study of security and energy conservation issues in such systems.

Investigation of Vapor Pressure and Infrared Spectroscopic Analysis of Phosphoric Acid Extract Evaporation after Desulfation with SrCO₃

Ammophos-Maxam JSC is renowned for the production highly concentrated phosphorus fertilizers such as ammophos, ammonium sulfate phosphate, and suprephos, using thermally concentrated phosphorites sourced from the Central Kyzylkums. The production process heavily relies on wet-process phosphoric acid (WPA), which typically contains 16–18 % phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5). However, converting low P2O5 WPA into these high-phosphorus fertilizers during the stages of evaporation, drying, and granulation stages significantly increases the heat and energy consumption per unit of the final product. To address these challenges, extensive initiatives are currently underway in the republic. These efforts are aimed at improving the production of various phosphorus fertilizers, including ammophos, suprephos-NS, ammonium sulfate phosphate, PS-Agro, enriched superphosphate, and feed ammonium phosphates. These products are derived from the processing of washed burnt phosphoconcentrate (WBP-26) obtained from Kyzylkum phosphorites. This paper describes the results of recent studies on the evaporation process of WPA at Ammophos-Maxam JSC. The research focuses on examining the boiling point of WPA solutions, vapor pressure, and the composition of the resulting precipitates. Additionally, infrared (IR) spectroscopy was conducted to provide deeper insights into the material properties. These investigations are crucial for optimizing production processes and reduce energy costs.

Thermodynamic Analysis and Optimization of Power Cycles for Waste Heat Recovery

Improvement of energy efficiency in technological processes at industrial enterprises is one of the key areas of energy saving. Reduction of energy costs required for the production of energy-intensive products can be achieved through the utilization of waste heat produced by high-temperature thermal furnace units. Generation of electric power based on the waste heat using power cycles with working fluids that are not conventional for large power engineering, may become a promising energy saving trend. In this paper, thermodynamic analysis and optimization of power cycles for the purposes of waste heat recovery are performed. The efficiency of combining several power cycles was also evaluated. It has been established that the combination of the Brayton recompression cycle on supercritical carbon dioxide with the organic Rankine cycle using R124 allows for greater electrical power than steam-power cycles with three pressure circuits under conditions where the gas temperature is in the range of 300–550 °C and the cooling temperature of is up to 80 °C. Additionally, when cooling gases with a high sulfur and moisture content to 150 °C, the combined cycle has greater electrical power at gas temperatures of 330 °C and above. At enterprises where the coolant has a high content of sulfur compounds or moisture and deep cooling of gases will lead to condensation, for example, at petrochemical and non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises, the use of combined cycles can ensure a utilization efficiency of up to 45%.

Economic Analysis of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) Production Under Different Solar Energy Alternatives in a Commercial Biofloc System in Colombia

The study investigates the economic aspects of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) production using biofloc technology under different electrical energy sources. Conducted at the El Vergel Fish Farming Association in Arauca, Colombia, the study examines four energy treatments: conventional energy (CE), combined conventional and photovoltaic energy (CPVE), full photovoltaic energy (PVE), and simulation of photovoltaic energy generating surplus for nighttime use (PVES). The water quality and zootechnical performance met the species requirements, with dissolved oxygen decreasing as fish size increased. The PVE treatment had the highest initial investment due to solar panels and battery costs, but it also had the lowest operating energy costs. However, the overall costs of the PVE treatment increased due to depreciation and maintenance. Feed was the largest production cost, followed by labor in most treatments, while depreciation was a major cost for the PVE treatment. The total operating cost (TOC) of the photovoltaic energy systems (PVE and PVES) was lower compared to that of conventional energy (CE), with PVES showing the highest cost savings. The reduction in energy costs highlights the potential for solar energy systems to enhance the economic viability of aquaculture production, making these systems a favorable option for sustainable production in the long term.

One Shoe to Fit Them All? Effect of Various Carbon Plate Running Shoes on Running Economy in Male and Female Amateur Triathletes and Runners at Individual Training and Race Paces

Carbon plate running shoes (CPRSs) have gained widespread popularity among elite and amateur runners, representing one of the most substantial changes in running gear over the past decade. Compared to elite runners, however, amateurs run at lower speeds and show more diverse running styles. This is a meaningful difference as many previous studies on CPRSs focus either on highly trained male runners and higher speeds or only on a single CPRSs manufacturer. The present study aims at bridging this gap by investigating how CPRSs from four different manufacturers affect running economy in amateurs of both sexes at their individual running speeds. For this purpose, 21 trained amateur triathletes (12 men; 9 women) completed an incremental treadmill test until volitional exhaustion, yielding running speeds at ventilatory thresholds 1 (vVT1) and 2 (vVT2). In a second session, subjects ran five trials of 3 × 3 min (speeds of 90% vVT1, ½ (vVT1 + vVT2), and 100% vVT2), wearing one out of four different pairs of CPRSs or their own preferred non-CPRS shoes in each trial. Our results show that tested CPRS models resulted in a significant reduction in the mean energy cost of transport, compared to the non-CPRS control condition, with Cohen’s d amounting to −1.52 (p = 0.016), 2.31 (p < 0.001), 2.57 (p < 0.001), and 2.80 (p < 0.001), respectively, although effect sizes varied substantially between subjects and running speeds. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that amateur athletes may benefit from various manufacturers’ CPRS models at their typical running speeds to a similar degree as highly trained runners. It is recommended that amateur athletes evaluate a range of CPRSs and select the shoe that elicits the least subjective sensation of fatigue over a testing distance of at least 400–1000 m.

Structural insulation panel system (SIP) as an alternative for cooling energy saving, decarbonization, and energy cost reduction in hot and dry climates. A simulation-based approach

ABSTRACT During the last decades, the growing urban prospects represent a challenging condition to develop climate change adaptation solutions before the urban overheating effects and its challenges to the environment, human health, and building energy consumption, which is critical in hot arid climates with record-breaking heatwaves where society is turning to air conditioning instead of energy-efficient building envelopes. The primary aim of this study was to examine the influence of the Structural Insulation Panel (SIP) system heat transfer in energy-related aspects and contrast it with those of conventional construction systems. Therefore, a comparative study was carried out in low-income dwellings to measure the thermal transmittance of the building envelope and assess the thermal energy simulation allocated in Köppen-Geiger´s hot desert climate, characterized by typical maximum temperatures of 45°C in the summer season. The investigation ascertained the levels of energy consumption, the capacity of the air conditioning system, the associated energy costs, and the potential decrease in carbon footprint. The study shows SIP as a viable construction system alternative, the evidence shows a 20% heat gain reduction, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system capacity was reduced by 38%, and energy cost by 27%. The system also contributes to the decarbonization and carbon footprint by 20%. Likewise, to reduce the heat flow, a crucial element is evident, since transmittance in thermal bridges significantly affects the heat transfer in these low thermal conductivity systems with structural reinforcement elements.

Comparative study of geometric characteristics of microcapillaries for chemical reactions

In this paper, a comprehensive comparative study of various geometrical characteristics of microcapillaries used for chemical reactions is carried out. Three main shapes of microcapillaries are considered: serpentine, fractal and lobular. The focus is on how microcapillary geometry affects key parameters of the reaction process, including reactant mixing efficiency, flow distribution, heat transfer, and reaction rate. Optimization of these parameters is critical to improve the performance of chemical processes at the microscale. COMSOL Multiphysics software was used for the simulations, which enabled the evaluation of hydrodynamic characteristics such as Reynolds number, mixing coefficients and temperature distribution profile. The study also includes calculations of criteria used to quantify the efficiency of reagent mixing. In addition to numerical modeling, experiments were conducted, the results of which were used to verify the obtained calculated data. This improved the accuracy and reliability of the conclusions. The results of the study show that the choice of microcapillary geometry has a significant influence on the hydrodynamic parameters of the flow and, consequently, on the overall efficiency of chemical reactions. For example, serpentine geometry may provide better mixing in the early stages of the reaction, whereas a brush-like shape may be optimal for long-term processes with high heat transfer rates. The conclusions of this work provide practical recommendations for the choice of microcapillary geometry depending on the specifics of the chemical reaction. Using the example of acetone self-condensation, a suitable geometry, lobular, was identified. The recommendations are aimed at increasing productivity, improving the quality of reaction products and reducing energy costs.

Cost-Optimized Mooring Systems integrating Load Reduction Device for 15 MW FOWT

The wind energy sector is shifting towards larger turbines to reduce energy costs, posing challenges for installations in shallow and intermediate waters (60-150 meters) that require smaller platforms and mooring systems. Previous research utilized a multi-objective optimization (MO) framework, employing tools like NSGA2 and OpenFast with MoorDyn, to design systems compatible with synthetic lines. Incorporating load reduction devices (LDRs) in mooring systems offers significant benefits by reducing loads on anchors and mooring lines, allowing for smaller, lighter anchors, and mitigating fatigue damage. LDRs, such as ballasted pendulums, polymer springs, and hydraulic dampers, feature unique non-linear stiffness curves crucial for performance. This study advances the MO framework by assessing a mooring system with spring polymer LDRs and conducting a sensitivity analysis of key design variables using the design of experiments (DOE) approach. It integrates the Pymoo optimization library with industrial software like OrcaFlex and OrcaWave, promoting broader industry adoption. The findings indicate significant reductions in mooring system costs, particularly for smaller mooring radii, and a 22% decrease in computational costs with fewer design variables, enhancing the mooring design process for any floating platform in any water depth.