Route For Production Research Articles

A High-Quality Mixed Matrix Membrane with Nanosheets Assembled and Uniformly Dispersed Fillers for Ethanol Recovery.

A high-quality filler within mixed matrix membranes, coupled with uniform dispersity, endows a high-efficiency transfer pathway for the significant improvement on separation performance. In this work, a zeolite-typed MCM-22 filler is reported that is doped into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix by ultrafast photo-curing technique. The unique structure of nanosheets assembly layer by layer endows the continuous transfer channels towards penetrate molecules because of the inter-connective nanosheets within PDMS matrix. Furthermore, an ultrafast freezing effect produced by fast photo-curing is used to overcome the key issue, namely filler aggregation, and further eliminates defects. When pervaporative separating a 5 wt% ethanol aqueous solution, the resulting MCM-22/PDMS membrane exhibits an excellent membrane flux of 1486g m-2 h-1 with an ethanol separation factor of 10.2. Considering a biobased route for ethanol production, the gas stripping and vapor permeation through this membrane also shows a great enrichment performance, and the concentrated ethanol is up to 65.6 wt%. Overall, this MCM-22/PDMS membrane shows a high separation ability for ethanol benefited from a unique structure deign of fillers and ultrafast curing speed of PDMS, and has a great potential for bioethanol separation from cellulosic ethanol fermentation.

OPTIMIZING CARTON PRODUCT DELIVERY BY SOLVING TRAVELLING SALESMAN PROBLEM AT PACKAGING COMPANIES

Optimization of delivery routes is one form of increasing business productivity to achieve the company's main goal of distributing each product to customers. The Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) is a combinatorial optimization problem where a salesman goes on a distribution journey that starts from the depot, then visits all customers exactly once, and ends with returning to the depot. This study aims to optimize the distribution route of carton products for packaging companies using the TSP model. The research methodology includes observation, interviews, and document studies to understand the distribution process of carton products at packaging companies. To complete the TSP model, Branch and Bound (BB) and Nearest Neighbor (NN) methods are applied to find the best solution for determining the distribution route of carton products. The way the BB method works is by utilizing branch cuts and boundaries to reduce search space and speed up the resolution process. In the NN method, the nearest point is chosen to get the shortest route distance. Research findings show that the use of the BB method results in a mileage difference from the initial route of 125 km (53% more efficient) and a fuel cost difference of 121,231 IDR (45% cheaper). Meanwhile, the NN method results in a mileage difference from the initial route of 115 km (48.94%) and a fuel cost difference of 109,901 IDR (41.27%). So, the method that produces the best solution is the BB method. The limitations of this study lie in the scale of the model used and the assumptions underlying the analysis. Future research can broaden the scope of the model and consider other factors that may affect the distribution of carton products. The results of this study contribute to improving the efficiency of carton product distribution.

Production routing problem in shared manufacturing: Robust chance-constrained formulation and multi-diversification based matheuristic

Building on the concept of the sharing economy, which capitalizes on the advancements in information and manufacturing technologies, the shared manufacturing paradigm has tremendous potential for enhancing the performance of production–distribution systems and has become prevalent in the today’s manufacturing industry. Despite the extensive research on the production routing problem, which integrates decisions of production, inventory, and distribution routing, there is a notable absence of investigation within the context of shared manufacturing. This paper aims to bridge the above-mentioned research gap and develop valuable decision-support tools for managers, assisting efficient management of production–distribution systems in shared manufacturing environments. To achieve this, this paper introduces a general model for the production routing problem with shared manufacturing resources. The problem is formulated as a robust chance-constrained model to address uncertainties arising in customer demand and the demand and supply of shared manufacturing resources. Subsequently, a computationally tractable formulation is derived, for which a matheuristic that incorporates three diversification techniques is proposed to solve. Extensive computational experiments are conducted to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of both the model and the matheuristic, as well as to evaluate the benefits of manufacturing resource sharing. The experimental results demonstrate that our matheuristic outperforms state-of-the-art solution approaches. Moreover, manufacturing resource sharing can lead to significant reductions in operational costs and improvements in service levels. Finally, the advantages are found to increase as manufacturing resource unit purchasing costs decrease, demand fluctuations decrease, and production interruption severity increases.

Process Parameter Optimisation in Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Duplex Stainless Steel 2205

Additive Manufacturing (AM) appears as a very interesting alternative to conventional production routes for alloys and metals, thanks to the fact that at the end of printing, the final product is obtained directly. The present article looks for the inclusion of duplex stainless steel 2205 (DSS-2205) in the commercial catalog of steels utilized in powder bed fusion (PBF) technologies, specifically applying the selective laser melting (SLM) technique. The main objective is to establish optimal printing parameters that reproduce the closest results to the base material properties. To achieve this, the response surface method was used in the methodology and experimental design, studying the parameters of laser power, scanning speed, and hatching distance. A reference material, machined from a hot-rolled plate, was utilized to compare the results obtained through tensile strength. Lastly, the optimal parameters have been obtained for this stainless steel. Additionally, a study of heat treatments has been developed, aiming to optimize the austenitization process, achieving an improvement in mechanical properties. A steel with mechanical properties practically identical to those of steel produced using conventional techniques has been obtained through SLM.

Surface Functionalization of Novel Work‐Hardening Multi‐Principal‐Element Alloys by Ultrasonic Assisted Milling

The development of multi‐principal‐element alloys (MPEAs) with unique characteristics such as high work hardening capacity similar to well‐known alloy systems like Hadfield steel X120Mn12 (ASTM A128) is a promising approach. Hence, by exploiting the core effects of MPEAs, the application range of conventional alloy systems can be extended. In the present study, work‐hardening MPEAs based on the equimolar composition CoFeNi are developed. Mn and C are alloyed in the same ratio as for X120Mn12. The production route consists of cast manufacturing by an electric arc furnace and surface functionalization via mechanical finishing using ultrasonic‐assisted milling (USAM) to initiate work hardening. The microstructure evolution, the hardness as well as the resulting oscillating wear resistance are detected. A pronounced lattice strain and grain refinement due to the plastic deformation during the USAM is recorded for the MPEA CoFeNi‐Mn12C1.2. Consequently, hardness increases by ≈380 HV0.025 in combination with a higher oscillating wear resistance compared to the X120Mn12. This shows the promising approach for developing work‐hardening alloys based on novel alloy concepts such as MPEAs.

Sustainable synthesis of 2-ethyl hexyl oleate via lipase-catalyzed esterification: A holistic simulation and cost analysis study

Lipase catalyzed synthesis of fatty acid esters has recently attracted much attention as it represents a cleaner production route compared to the conventional energy intensive chemical method. In this study, the technical and economic viability of 2-ethyl hexyl oleate (2-EHO) synthesis by the catalytic esterification of oleic acid (OA) and 2-ethyl hexyl alcohol (2-EHA) in a stirred tank reactor using Novozym 435 (Candida antarctica lipase B) was investigated. A conversion rate of 91% was obtained by adopting the subsequent optimized parameters: 4% enzyme amount, 2 h reaction time, 4:1 M ratio of alcohol to fatty acid, 150 rpm stirring speed, and 60 °C temperature. The lipase operational stability study showed that enzymes can be used for 30 successive cycles without significant lose in activity. The use of Aspen Plus simulator enabled the development of a detailed process flow diagram, which significantly improved the understanding of this clean production method and assessed the overall costs. A holistic cost analysis revealed a production cost of $2109 per ton of 2-EHO, thereby yielding an approximate 28% profit margin relative to prevailing market rates. Rigorous financial assessments corroborated the project's viability, substantiating a net present value (NPV) of $14.7 MM, a return on investment (ROI) of 583.91% (plant life time = 15 years), projected Payback Period stands at 6 years, and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 23%. These results confirm the technical and economic feasibility of lipase catalyzed production of 2-EHO, highlighting its potential as an environmentally and profitable approach in the synthesis of fatty acid esters.

Spatially engineered local electric field for enhanced water electrolysis

Alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) stands as a well-established and promising route for sustainable hydrogen production. However, traditional AWE cells suffer from low performance and bulky size. Here, we introduce the integrated design, a streamlined architecture that maximizes space utilization and enhances inter-component contact. This geometric innovation requires only minor modifications in the manufacturing process to effectively double the gas production capacity without increasing the volume of the device across a wide voltage range. Utilizing Ni foam electrodes, the device achieves a 205 mA cm−3 output at 2.0 V. Through visual inspections and simulations, we compared the new and traditional designs, attributing performance improvements to optimized local electric fields. These findings not only demonstrate the feasibility of spatial engineering, but also illuminate a promising path to advance alkaline water electrolyzer technology.

Revisiting the Electrocatalyst Role on Lignin Depolymerization

Replacing fossil resources as the primary source of carbon‐based chemicals by alternative feedstocks, while implementing more sustainable production routes, has become imperative for environmental and resource sustainability. In this context, lignin, often treated as a biomass waste, emerges as an appealing candidate, considering the principles of circular economy. For this pursuit, depolymerization methods offer potential strategies to harness lignin to produce valuable organic chemicals, while electrocatalysis processes stand out especially in the context of sustainability, as they can be powered by electricity from renewable sources. This minireview article explores the pivotal role of various electrocatalysts in lignin depolymerization, investigating both oxidative and reductive pathways. Emphasizing recent advancements, the review delves into the diverse nature of electrocatalysts and their influence on lignin valorization. Highlighting current trends, the discussion encompasses the catalytic mechanisms and selectivity of electrochemical processes employed for lignin breakdown. Additionally, some insights into emerging technologies are also offered, emphasizing the need for sustainable and efficient strategies. By providing an overview of the field, this minireview aims to guide future research endeavors toward innovative electrocatalytic approaches for lignin depolymerization, paving the way for sustainable biorefinery processes.

Stoichiometric Study on Ion Composition of a Precursor in Chemical Bottom-Up Synthesis for Peroxo-Titanate.

Layered alkali titanates of the lepidocrocite type are gaining enormous interest in various fields owing to their unique properties. These materials are mainly synthesized through a hydrothermal alkali treatment. However, this method uses a highly concentrated alkali solution, which has high environmental impacts and is therefore unsuitable for mass synthesis. Herein, we propose an efficient method for the large-scale synthesis of layered sodium titanate structures (Na2-x H x Ti2O5) using a recently reported bottom-up chemical process. The effects of the Na:Ti molar ratio in the peroxo-titanium complex ion precursor on the products are investigated through stoichiometric calculations for a molar ratio range of 10:1-1:1. The optimal ratio for the complete ionization of TiH2 (which is the starting material) to form the peroxo-titanium complex ion is found to be 1.1:1. The amount of alkali raw material required is 99.6% lower than that required in the traditional hydrothermal method. The crystal structures and morphologies of the samples are almost identical regardless of the Na:Ti molar ratio. The precursor-derived peroxo bonds narrow the energy band gaps of the layered titanates even when the amount of titanium ions dissolved in the precursor increases. The proposed method is not only an efficient synthetic route for mass production but also has potential applications in the development of photofunctional materials.

Chelator-impregnated polydimethylsiloxane beads for the separation of medical radionuclides

Chelator-impregnated resins have been studied earlier for the chemical separation of elements in aqueous solutions, but issues with their chemical stability have limited their use in the separation of (medical) radionuclides from their respective irradiated targets. We developed a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based chelator-impregnated resin that showed a high chemical stability against leaching. Several different chelators were tested in this study. After impregnation of the PDMS beads with the di-2-ethylhexylphosphoric acid (D2EHPA) chelator, an in-flow separation study with various radionuclides (Y-90, La-140, and Ac-225) was conducted. These three radionuclides have potential use in nuclear medicine and a production route through irradiation of Sr-, Ba-, and Ra-targets respectively, necessitating their chemical separation. The D2EHPA-impregnated beads achieved high adsorption efficiencies of 99.89% ± 0.14%, 99.50% ± 0.10%, and 98.51% ± 0.25%, for Y-90, La-140, and Ac-225, respectively, while co-adsorption of minor amounts (<3%) of the targets were reported. These results, together with the high chemical stability of the PDMS-based resin, highlight the potential of chelator-impregnated resins in the rapidly growing field of (medical) radionuclide production.

Enhanced Cryogenic Magnetocaloric Effect from 4f‐3d Exchange Interaction in B‐Site Ordered Gd2CuTiO6 Double Perovskite Oxide

AbstractMagnetic refrigeration based on the principle of the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in magnetic solids has been considered as a prospective cooling technology. Exploring suitable magnetocaloric materials (MCMs) is a vital prerequisite for practical applications. Herein, an excellent cryogenic MCM—the B‐site‐ordered Gd2CuTiO6 double perovskite (DP) oxide—which exhibits the largest MCE among known Gd‐based DP oxides, is identified. Such enhanced cryogenic MCE in the Gd2CuTiO6 DP oxide likely stems from the exchange interaction effect between Gd‐4f and Cu‐3d magnetic sublattices. Under a magnetic field change of 0–7 T, the maximum magnetic entropy change (−ΔSTmax) of the Gd2CuTiO6 DP oxide reaches 51.4 J kg−1 K−1 (378.2 mJ cm−3 K−1), which is much larger than that of the commercialized magnetic refrigerant Gd3Ga5O12, which is 38.3 J kg−1 K−1 (271.2 mJ cm−3 K−1), and it is also superior to most of the recently reported benchmarked cryogenic MCMs, indicating the possibility for practical applications. This work also provides a productive route for future cryogenic MCM design by harnessing 4f–3d exchange interactions.

Surface analysis, oxidation resistance, and embossing of Ge-based solution-processed thin films as materials for high refractive index optical elements

The solution-processing of chalcogenides offers a cheap route for potential mass production of high refractive index optical elements. Especially germanium-based glasses are perspective materials, but crucial information about their stability and patterning possibility was still missing. In this study, the Ge25S75, Ge20Sb5S75, Ge25Se75, and Ge20Sb5Se75 amorphous thin films were deposited in specular optical quality. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis revealed a significantly chalcogen-depleted surface with metal over-stoichiometry, while the overall composition was still close to the targeted one. The oxidation resistance of studied samples was compared by their exposure to atmospheric conditions. The XPS proved that their resistance is strongly compositional dependent and rises as follows: Ge25S75 < Ge20Sb5S75 < Ge25Se75 < Ge20Sb5Se75. The analysis also showed the presence of amorphous thin layer of germanium oxides. The thin films were also utilized for the fabrication of diffraction gratings using a soft stamp hot embossing method. Samples were structured in a wide range of temperatures (with respect to Tg) and analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and EDX. Results demonstrated that selenides are more suitable for hot embossing as they provide gratings with higher depth and more stable composition, while sulfides exhibited significant chalcogen loss.

Advancements and Policy Implications of Green Hydrogen Production from Renewable Sources

With the increasingly severe climate change situation and the trend of green energy transformation, the development and utilization of hydrogen energy has attracted extensive attention from government, industry, and academia in the past few decades. Renewable energy electrolysis stands out as one of the most promising hydrogen production routes, enabling the storage of intermittent renewable energy power generation and supplying green fuel to various sectors. This article reviews the evolution and development of green hydrogen policies in the United States, the European Union, Japan, and China, and then summarizes the key technological progress of renewable energy electrolysis while introducing the progress of hydrogen production from wind and photovoltaic power generation. Furthermore, the environmental, social, and economic benefits of different hydrogen production routes are analyzed and compared. Finally, it provides a prospective analysis of the potential impact of renewable energy electrolysis on the global energy landscape and outlines key areas for future research and development.

Nuclear model calculation of yield for 64Cu radionuclide produced in 65Cu(α, x)64Cu reaction at ≈ 10–40 MeV

This paper used theoretical nuclear model calculations to estimate the production yield of medically important 64Cu radionuclide produced in the interaction of α-projectile with 65Cu-target at ≈10–40 MeV. Production cross-sections were predicted using TALYS-1.9(G), EMPIRE 3.2, and ALICE/ASH reaction model codes. Generally, the TALYS-1.95(G) predicted and measured cross-sections to produce 64Cu radionuclide are in very good agreement. Further, the statistical analysis of Pearson's coefficient confirmed strong positive correlations between TALYS-1.95(G) predictions and most experimentally measured production cross-sections. The calculated thick target yields of 64Cu radionuclide showed that 65Cu(α, x)64Cu reaction resulted in a maximum yield of up to ≈ 1423 MBq/μAh at ≈ 30 MeV. Furthermore, analyzes of isotopic impurities produced during 64Cu production could only give rise to the significant yield of 66Cu impurity as much as ≈ 1988 MBq/μAh, which complicated the process of radiochemistry; however, the relatively short half-life of 66Cu isotopic impurity could only demand a waiting time of about 1.5 h to decrease its contribution to a negligible level.The yield obtained for the 64Cu radionuclide via the 65Cu(α, x)64Cu route is significant. It validates the viability of this production route and underscores its potential as a promising option for the optimized supply of 64Cu in radiopharmaceutical applications. While further investigations on quality validating parameters are necessary, the potential of the 65Cu(α, x)64Cu production route cannot be overstated.

The LimoFish Circular Economy Process for the Marine Bioeconomy.

The outcomes of applying the zero-waste extraction "LimoFish" process based on defatting fish processing waste with limonene to leftovers of European sardine (Sardina pilchardus) and European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), compared to conventional extraction with oil-derived solvents such as n-hexane and with petroleum ether, show that the process has general applicability. Meeting the principles of green extraction and those of the marine biorefinery requiring high process efficiency, the process establishes an "innovation through integration" circular economy production route enabling the marine bioeconomy.

Mixed-integer programming models for a multi-period integrated reverse logistics network with multiple recovery options and different quality levels of returns

This paper addresses an integrated reverse logistics (RL) model with a production route and multiple recovery options, including repair, refurbishing, remanufacturing, recycling, and selling spare components. We aim to use the quality grading system method to analyse returns comprehensively. In this regard, quality levels are used to classify returns and quality thresholds are utilised to categorise them into certain quality groups. The proposed model deals with different activities such as locating, purchasing, transporting, processing, inventory holding, recovering, and production in a planning horizon with multiple periods. A two-stage optimisation model is proposed to facilitate the decision-making process. In Stage 1, a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model is proposed to minimise the costs and determine the number of returned products directed into different recovery routes. In Stage 2, another MILP is proposed to maximise the network’s profit. Furthermore, 350 scenarios are defined to examine the network’s performance and decide the optimal quality thresholds. Finally, the proposed models are applied to a real dataset and solved by the CPLEX solver through Pyhton. According to the results, scenarios that use multiple recovery options earn higher profits and lower costs as most demands are satisfied and the stock level of inventories decreases.

Techno economic and life cycle assessment of olefin production through CO2 hydrogenation within the power-to-X concept

The paper deals with exhaustive process modelling, techno-economic and life cycle assessment (TEA/LCA) of olefin (ethylene and propylene) production through captured CO2 and electrolytic hydrogen. Olefins are important building block chemicals with several applications and carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) can provide a sustainable production route. The proposed system involves direct air capture (DAC) of CO2; proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis for hydrogen production, methanol synthesis, methanol to olefins (MTO) upgrade, and power generation from off-shore wind turbines. This study proposes a new integrated process as the first attempt to holistically assess a whole CCU assembly aiming at olefins production. Processing modelling has been implemented using the Aspen plus V12.1 and MATLAB R2022a software to solve the mass and energy balances of each unit operation. The modelling results showed a carbon efficiency of 72.3% to ethylene and propylene. In addition, the process is designed and integrated in such a way that no external heat supply is required. A specific energy consumption (SEC) of 150 MJ/kg olefins (41 kWh/kg) has been estimated. A minimum selling price of £3.67 per kg of olefins is required for the proposed process to break-even. The sensitivity analysis has revealed that the major cost driver is the cost of electricity. In addition, the life cycle assessment (LCA) has exposed that the proposed synthesis route of olefins has the potential to reduce the global warming potential (GWP) by 47% compared to fossil - based production. The outcomes of this study can be beneficial to engineering conceptual studies, policy makers and contribute new information to the CCU academic community.

Algal-based biochar and hydrochar: A holistic and sustainable approach to wastewater treatment

Biochar and hydrochar are carbon-rich solid products of algal and terrestrial biomass obtained through various thermochemical processes, mainly hydrothermal liquefaction, pyrolysis, and hydrothermal carbonization. Both are regarded as economical, potent, and environmentally friendly adsorbents for wastewater remediation. The versatile applicability of biochar and hydrochar, which is due to their enhanced surface physicochemical properties, includes efficient metal biosorption, soil fertility enhancement, and carbon sequestration. Consequently, there has been an increase in research for producing and exploiting biochar and hydrochar from algae. Both micro- and macro-algal biomass have strong potential due to their sustainability footprint and distinct properties. This review focuses on a comprehensive account of the synthesis of algal biochar and hydrochar and use in wastewater treatment to develop innovative solutions for efficient mitigation of several aqueous pollutants and heavy metal ions. The review discusses the various thermochemical production routes, biophysical characterization techniques, and modes of mechanism for wastewater bioremediation. Algal-based biochar and hydrochar are reported to have higher porosity and more diverse functional groups such as amines, hydroxyl, and carboxyl compared to their cellulosic and waste-derived counterparts, demonstrating an increased wastewater remediation efficiency. In addition, presence of inorganic metal including sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus in algal chars facilitates the formation of mesopores and graphite structures, improving their cation exchange capacity. Moreover, algal chars may exhibit pH buffering capacity, which could help stabilize the pH during wastewater treatment processes. Notably, the low O/C content of algal hydrochars enhances the binding and removal of organic pollutants including toxic dyes and antibiotics. The review highlights the development of modified algal chars to enhance the porosity, surface area, structural integrity, and adsorption capacity enabling a higher bioremediation potential.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase maintains redox homeostasis and biosynthesis in LKB1-deficient KRAS-driven lung cancer

Cancer cells depend on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) to combat oxidative stress and support reductive biosynthesis. One major NADPH production route is the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (committed step: glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, G6PD). Alternatives exist and can compensate in some tumors. Here, using genetically-engineered lung cancer mouse models, we show that G6PD ablation significantly suppresses KrasG12D/+;Lkb1-/- (KL) but not KrasG12D/+;P53-/- (KP) lung tumorigenesis. In vivo isotope tracing and metabolomics reveal that G6PD ablation significantly impairs NADPH generation, redox balance, and de novo lipogenesis in KL but not KP lung tumors. Mechanistically, in KL tumors, G6PD ablation activates p53, suppressing tumor growth. As tumors progress, G6PD-deficient KL tumors increase an alternative NADPH source from serine-driven one carbon metabolism, rendering associated tumor-derived cell lines sensitive to serine/glycine depletion. Thus, oncogenic driver mutations determine lung cancer dependence on G6PD, whose targeting is a potential therapeutic strategy for tumors harboring KRAS and LKB1 co-mutations.

Photoelectrocatalytic Synthesis of Urea from Carbon Dioxide and Nitrate over a Cu2O Photocathode.

Transformation of carbon dioxide and nitrate ions into urea offers an attractive route for both nitrogen fertilizer production and environmental remediation. However, achieving this transformation under mild conditions remains challenging. Herein, we report an efficient photoelectrochemical method for urea synthesis by co-reduction of carbon dioxide and nitrate ion over a Cu2O photocathode, delivering urea formation rate of 29.71±2.20 μmol g-1 h-1 and Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 12.90±1.15 % at low external potential (-0.017 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode). Experimental data combined with theoretical calculations suggest that the adsorbed CO* and NO2* species are the key intermediates, and associated C-N coupling is the rate-determining step. This work demonstrates that Cu2O is an efficient catalyst to drive co-reduction of CO2 and NO3 - to urea under light irradiation with low external potential, showing great opportunity of photoelectrocatalysis as a sustainable tool for value-added chemical synthesis.