Series Of Tests Research Articles

The mechanism of supply chain efficiency in enterprise digital transformation and total factor productivity

Digital transformation (DT) represents a crucial measure for enterprises to enhance production efficiency. Supply chain construction has become a key strategic focus, and its efficient operation serves as a vital safeguard for elevating overall production efficiency within the enterprise. Based on the data of China's A-share listed enterprises from 2001 to 2022, this paper employed econometric models to investigate the impact of enterprise DT on total factor productivity (TFP),with a particular emphasis on examining the mechanistic role played by supply chain efficiency (SCE). The research findings reveal that: (1) Enterprise DT can significantly enhance TFP. The robustness of these results persists even after undergoing a series of endogeneity tests. (2) SCE plays a crucial mechanistic role in the impact of enterprise DT on TFP. The research results have been fully empirically tested, enterprises can significantly promote the inventory turnover with the help of digital technology, and then improve the TFP. The research findings and corresponding policy recommendations can provide a theoretical basis for enterprises in formulating DT strategies and delineating the supply chain development direction. This holds significant practical implications for enhancing enterprise production efficiency and achieving carbon neutral goal.

The effect of different vulcanization reagents on the synthesis of NiFeS and the performance test of seawater electrolysis

Hydrogen energy, as the most promising new energy for sustainable development, has aroused wide concern of researcher in the field of energy chemical industry. Among the many hydrogen generation approaches, electric water splitting for producing H2 is considered to be a simple and environmentally friendly method. Transition metal-based catalysts have become an important field in alkaline seawater electrolysis due to their high abundance and superior catalytic performance. Therefore, NiFeS (Ni3S2@FeS) was in-situ generated on nickel foam through a simple two-step hydrothermal approach in this paper. NiFeS/NF catalysts synthesized by three vulcanization reagents (Na2S·9H2O, CH3CSNH2, CH4N2S) were characterized and compared by a series of electrochemical tests. It is worth noting that for the first time, different vulcanization reagents were used to explore the activity of the same catalyst in seawater splitting and urea splitting. It was found that the NiFeS catalyst synthesized by Na2S·9H2O (Ni3S2@FeS-1/NF) had better oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance and good stability in alkaline seawater. The overpotential required for the OER with Ni3S2@FeS-1/NF electrode in alkaline seawater (1 M KOH + seawater electrolyte) is 290 mV at the 10 mA cm-2, and 92 mV for the hydrogen evolution reaction at the 10 mA cm-2. It is found that the NiFeS catalyst obtained by vulcanization of NiFe-LDH not only has high activity and conductivity, but also can effectively inhibit Cl- corrosion. Ni3S2@FeS-1/NF catalyst has a unique cluster rosette nanosheet array structure, which can present more catalytic reaction centres, accelerate the electron transfer rate and promote electrochemistry performance. The work proposes a novel way to explore the effect of different synthesis methods of the same composition on the performance of electrolytic seawater.

Experimental and model evaluation of cyclic compressive performance for RAC-filled BFRP tube composite columns

The mechanical properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) can be significantly enhanced in RAC-filled fiber-reinforced-polymer (FRP) tube composite columns. However, the cyclic compressive behavior of this type of composite columns has been scarcely studied. In this study, a series of cyclic axial compressive tests were conducted on RAC-filled basalt-FRP (BFRP) tube composite columns, and the effects of confinement level (number of BFRP layers) and RA replacement ratio were investigated. The test results indicate that, compared to RAC columns, the compressive capacity and deformability of RAC-filled BFRP tube composite columns increased significantly under cyclic loading. The compressive strength and ultimate strain of BFRP-confined RAC reached 1.42-3.98 times and 2.88-21.53 times those of unconfined RAC, respectively. The compressive strength and ultimate strain under cyclic loading were generally close to those under monotonic loading, with the compressive strength ratios averaging 1.052 and the ultimate strain ratios averaging 1.031. The enhancement efficiency of BFRP confinement increased progressively with increasing confinement level and/or RA replacement ratio. The envelope curves of the cyclic stress-strain curves resembled the stress-strain curves under monotonic loading. The reloading modulus (Ere) and residual modulus (Eun,0) continuously decreased as the unloading strain (εun) increased, while the plastic strain (εpl) increased almost linearly with εun. The values of Ere, Eun,0 and εpl were affected by the confinement level and RA replacement ratio. Finally, typical theoretical models for FRP-confined concrete were used to evaluate the cyclic stress-strain curves of RAC-filled BFRP tube composite columns.

Experimental study on the Mode l fracture toughness of frozen silty clay incorporating Digital image correlation

To investigate the effects of initial moisture content and temperature on the Mode I fracture toughness (KIc) of frozen silty clay, a series of three-point bending tests were conducted. Rectangular specimens with prefabricated cracks were tested, and digital image correlation (DIC) technology was employed to analyze the microscopic characteristics at the crack tip. The results indicate that the Mode I fracture toughness of frozen silty clay increases with decreasing temperature and increasing initial moisture content. Temperature governs the failure mode, with plastic failure predominantly occurring at high temperatures and brittle failure at low temperatures. Based on the load–displacement curves and DIC recordings, the macroscopic fracture process of the specimens can be categorized into three stages: elastic deformation, formation of the failure surface, and specimen failure. Additionally, the crack propagation process can be further divided into three stages: initiation and development of microcracks, transition from microcracks to macroscopic cracks, and rapid development of macroscopic cracks. These findings provide critical insights for slope stability research in cold regions and offer new perspectives for engineering design and construction in similar environments.

Laboratory Study of Interface Friction between Sand and Steel Surfaces

Abstract In this study, results have been reported from a series of laboratory tests to determine the interface friction angle of steel surfaces with sand through modified direct shear testing. For completion, steel surfaces with different surface geometry to replicate the roughness have been slid against various sands compacted at different relative densities under both dry and wet conditions. The standard square shape direct shear box has been modified into circular and rectangular boxes to sufficiently enhance the contact area and to subsequently quantify its effect on interface friction angle. A mild steel interface of smooth and rough texture with a groove depth of 0.2 mm and tipping at an angle of 90° has been used in this study. The analysis of results revealed that the interface friction angles obtained from the standard direct shear box agree closely with those obtained from both modified rectangular and circular shear boxes. However, the ratio of the interface friction angle from the modified apparatus and soil’s angle of internal friction significantly depends upon the roughness of the surface in contact with the sand, its median particle size, and is independent of the effects of box size, soil’s relative density, and dry or wet condition. A comparison between existing well-accepted guidelines and current observations has been presented for use by the practicing engineers dealing with soil-structure interaction.

The impact of servitization transformation on the ESG performance of manufacturing firms

In the new era of green and low-carbon economic transformation, servitization transformation enhances the production efficiency and perceptual capabilities of manufacturing firms and offers a novel approach to fulfilling environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities. This study employs a sample of Chinese-listed manufacturing firms from 2009 to 2021 to provide a theoretical analysis of the intrinsic mechanisms by which servitization transformation impacts ESG performance, including the roles played by total factor productivity, human capital, and firm goodwill. We then empirically examine the impact and mechanisms by which servitization transformation impacts the ESG performance of firms, finding the following. First, servitization transformation significantly improves ESG performance and this conclusion still holds following a series of robustness tests. Second, servitization transformation enhances ESG performance through the following three channels: improving total factor productivity, optimizing the structure of human capital, and accumulating firm goodwill. Third, the ESG performance of state-owned, high-tech, and large firms is more sensitive to servitization transformation. This study enriches and expands the application of servitization transformation research to manufacturing, providing policy insights that would allow manufacturing firms to better fulfill their ESG responsibilities and promote green and sustainable economic development.

Utilization of Granulated Blast Furnace Slag in Cement Mortar: Performance Analysis Against M-Sand

This study aims to explore the feasibility of incorporating Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GBFS) as a sustainable alternative to manufactured sand (M-Sand) in cement mortar, to enhance both environmental sustainability and mechanical performance. The research involves a systematic investigation where M-Sand is progressively replaced by GBFS at varying levels of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. The effects of these replacements are evaluated through a series of tests that focus on the mortar's physical properties, as well as its compressive and tensile strengths. Experimental results reveal that replacing 30% of M-Sand with GBFS produces the most favorable outcomes, with the compressive strength of the mortar exceeding that of the control mix by 12% after 28 days. The tensile strength also showed marked improvements at this replacement level. However, when the replacement level exceeds 30%, both compressive and tensile strengths begin to diminish, indicating that excessive substitution may adversely affect the mortar's structural integrity. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the optimal use of GBFS in cement mortar, demonstrating that a 30% substitution not only enhances strength characteristics but also contributes to more sustainable construction practices by reducing reliance on natural sand resources. This research supports the potential of GBFS as a viable material for improving the environmental profile and durability of cement-based materials.

A Methodological Framework for High-Resolution Surface Urban Heat Island Mapping: Integration of UAS Remote Sensing, GIS, and the Local Climate Zoning Concept

The urban heat island effect (UHI) is among the major challenges of urban climate, which is continuously intensifying its impact on urban life and functioning. Against the backdrop of increasingly prolonged heatwaves observed in recent years, practical questions about adaptation measures in cities are growing—questions that traditional meteorological monitoring can hardly answer adequately. On the other hand, UHI has long been the focus of research interest, but due to the technological complexity of providing accurate spatially referenced data at high spatial resolution and the requirement to survey at strictly defined parts of the day, information provision is becoming a major challenge. This is one of the main reasons why UHI research results are less often used directly in urban spatial planning. However, advances in geospatial technologies, including unmanned aerial systems (UASs), are providing more and more reliable tools that can be applied to achieve better and higher-quality information resources that adequately characterize the UHI phenomenon. This paper presents a developed and tested methodology for the rapid and efficient assessment and mapping of the effects of surface urban heat island (SUHI). It is entirely based on the integrated use of data from unmanned aerial systems (UAS)-based remote sensing methods, including thermal photogrammetry and GIS-based analysis methods. The study follows the understanding that correct SUHI research depends on a proper understanding of the urban geosystem, its spatial and structural heterogeneity, and its functional systems, which in turn can only be achieved by supporting the research process with accurate and reliable information resources. In this regard, the possibilities offered by the proposed methodological scheme for efficient geospatial registration of SUHI variations at the microscale, including the calculation of intra-urban SUHI intensity, are discussed in detail. The methodology builds on classical approaches for using local climate zoning (LCZ), adding capabilities for precise delineation of individual zone types and for geostatistical characterization of the urban surface heat island (SUHI). Finally, the proposed scheme is based on state-of-the-art technological tools that provide flexible and automated capabilities to investigate the phenomenon at microscales, including by enabling flexible observation of its dynamics in terms of heat wave manifestation and evolution. Results are presented from a series of sequential tests conducted on the largest residential area in Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, in terms of area and population, over a relatively long period from 2021 to 2024.

Does bank FinTech spur productivity of SMEs?

ABSTRACT Financial technology (FinTech) has promoted the popularization of intelligent banking services and profoundly impacted the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Based on manually collected over 20,000 data on FinTech patents of banks and data from Chinese A-share listed firms in the Growth Enterprise Market board from 2010 to 2020, we investigate the effects of Bank FinTech on the total factor productivity (TFP) of SMEs. Our results demonstrate that Bank FinTech significantly boosts the TFP of SMEs. The conclusion remains unchanged after conducting a series of robustness tests. Furthermore, we find that strengthening external financial regulation and internal digitalization in SMEs enhance the driving effect of FinTech on the TFP of SMEs. Moreover, heterogeneity analysis indicates that Bank FinTech is particularly beneficial for promoting TFP in non-state-owned SMEs, SMEs with large sizes and old age, and SMEs in the East and with dense bank branches. Our research offers empirical evidence on how Bank FinTech influences SMEs’ production efficiency, which is crucial for the technological catch-up of SMEs and for enhancing the ability of Bank FinTech to serve the real economy.

Digital development and rural financial inclusion: Evidence from China

Digital technology has profoundly influenced the development of the financial sector and is of great importance to financial inclusion. This paper employs sub-provincial panel data from 2005 to 2019 to analyse the impact mechanisms of digital economy development on rural finance, exploring the impact of digitalization and overall digital literacy on rural finance. Our findings verify that digitalization has a positive contribution to rural finance, while digital literacy has a significant inhibitory effect on rural finance. This still holds after a series of robustness tests. Subsequent mechanism analysis reveals that digital technology benefits rural finance by optimizing industrial structure and promoting technological progress, while digital literacy accelerates urbanization, leading to the loss of rural labor and thus inhibiting rural finance. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the role of the digital economy in rural inclusive finance is more pronounced in the eastern and central regions. Additionally, higher levels of human capital, economic development, entrepreneurship, and digitalization will further enhance the impact of the digital economy on rural inclusive finance. This study offers a new pathway for the realization of financial inclusion and a theoretical reference for financial development in rural areas. Our empirical analysis also provides new perspectives and insights for the formulation of policies and measures to coordinate the development of various elements of digital finance and cope with the impact of the digital economy on rural finance.

New insights into the increased risk of migraines from COVID-19 infection and vaccination: a Mendelian randomization study

IntroductionMigraine is a prevalent neurological disorder characterized by recurrent attacks, leading to a substantial global disease burden. Recent observational studies have reported the onset and worsening of migraine following COVID-19 infection and vaccination. However, traditional observational study designs have limitations in controlling for confounding factors, potentially resulting in biased and inconsistent conclusions. To address this, we applied Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between COVID-19 infection and vaccination with migraine.MethodsThis study utilized summary-level genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from the GWAS catalog and FinnGen database to evaluate the effects of varying degrees of COVID-19 infection and vaccination on migraine. We employed inverse variance weighted (IVW) fixed-effect and random-effect models as the primary methods for MR analysis, with MR-Egger and other approaches as complementary methods. Sensitivity analyses, including Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept regression, and MR-PRESSO, were conducted to ensure robustness of the results.ResultsOur MR analysis revealed no significant causal association between COVID-19 infection and migraine. However, a significant causal association was found between COVID-19 vaccination and migraine (beta = 0.071, P = 0.034). The results were confirmed through a series of sensitivity tests, demonstrating the robustness of the findings.DiscussionThis study provides novel evidence of a significant causal link between COVID-19 vaccination and migraine, while no such association was observed with COVID-19 infection. These findings may have important implications for clinical practice, particularly in planning treatment adjustments and optimizing patient care for individuals with migraines in the context of COVID-19 vaccination.

The impact of green credit on the green transformation of the manufacturing industry

Abstract Manufacturing's green transformation is essential for advancing high-quality development. Green credit, which functions as a market-driven tool, offers support for achieving this transformation. Using manufacturing data from 30 provinces in China from 2005 to 2020, this research establishes a theoretical framework to analyze how green credit and marketization levels influence manufacturing’s green transformation. This research also provides an empirical analysis of how green credit influences this transition. The results are as follows: first, the growth of green credit plays a significant role in driving the green transformation of the manufacturing sector, with this finding remaining valid after a series of robustness and endogeneity tests. Second, the mechanism analysis shows that green credit supports the environmentally friendly transformation of the manufacturing industry through an improvement in R&D intensity. Third, moderation testing reveals that the process of marketization significantly strengthens the positive effect of green credit on the promotion of manufacturing's green transformation Among them are the following, the relationship between the government and the market and the development of the product market inhibit the role of green credit in support of the green transformation of the manufacturing sector. The development of factor markets, the development of non-state-owned economies, and the development of market intermediary organizations and the legal system environment exert a facilitating function, which significantly enhances the positive effect of green credit in the promotion of the green transformation. The conclusions provide fresh insights and empirical evidence for advancing manufacturing's green transformation and hold practical significance for refining green credit policies and advancing market-oriented reforms.

Development patterns of the dynamic elastic modulus of saturated coral sand under different drainage conditions

Long-term cyclic loading can have a significant effect on the modulus of sand, and the influence on saturated coral sand has yet to be established. In this paper, the significant influence of non-plastic fines content (FC) and relative density (Dr) on dynamic elastic modulus (E) of saturated coral sand has been evaluated by a series of cyclic triaxial drainage tests. The results show that the dynamic elastic modulus increases rapidly at the beginning of loading; then the growth slows down and finally stabilizes. In general, the development of E is influenced collectively by FC, Dr and cyclic stress ratio (CSR). The initial dynamic elastic modulus Ed-1 and steady-state dynamic elastic modulus Ed-s increase with the increase of Dr, and decrease as FC increases. The linear fitting equations are given by introducing the equivalent skeleton void ratio esk*. Furthermore, the relative dynamic elastic modulus Er is defined as the ratio of Ed-N to Ed-s, and the prediction equation for Er was developed to provide a basis for the engineering mechanical parameters of coral sands under long-term loads.

A novel interpretation of farmland abandonment: evidence from the famine experience

The growing severity of farmland abandonment in rural areas has sparked concerns about the lack of people willing to cultivate the land. This study attempts to find the endogenous factors of farmland land abandonment among Chinese farmers and to curb land degradation to stabilize food security. Based on the China Labor-force Dynamics Survey (2016–2018), this paper explores the effect of famine experience on farmland abandonment using logit and DID models. We find that famine experience does increase the probability and extent of farmland abandonment, and undergo a series of robustness tests. We also find that the famine stigma effect increases the likelihood and extent of farmland abandonment by increasing risk aversion and reducing social trust and investment in agriculture. The growth of urbanization in China worsens the effects of famine, whereas local communal production services remove the effects of famine. The overall findings of this study provide useful insights for the government to protect land quality and food security and to carefully consider the role played by communities.

The effect of internet use on the health of middle-aged and older adults: evidences from China general social survey

BackgroundAccording to the United Nations classification of aging societies, China is rapidly transitioning into a moderately aging society, facing significant challenges related to population aging. Concurrently, China is actively implementing the Internet Power Strategy and the Internet Plus action plan, which are profoundly transforming the daily lives of individuals, including their health status. However, research on the impact of internet use on the health of middle-aged and older adults has not reached a consensus. This study aims to investigate the effects of internet use on the health of middle-aged and older adults, as well as the mechanisms and heterogeneity of these effects.MethodsThis study utilized data from the China General Social Survey conducted in 2018, which includes a sample of 6470 individuals. Self-rated health, mental health, and objective health were used as key health indicators, with internet use identified as the primary independent variable. The study aims to analyze the impact of internet use on the health status of middle-aged and older adults through the application of an ordered probit model and instrumental variable methods.ResultsThe results indicate that internet use has a significant positive impact on the health of middle-aged and older adults, with significance at the 1% level. This finding has passed a series of robustness tests. Mechanism analysis reveals that information acquisition is a crucial mediating mechanism between internet use and the health of middle-aged and older adults. This suggests that increased internet use enhances information access, thereby improving health outcomes. Furthermore, heterogeneity analysis shows that the impact of internet use on health is more pronounced among individuals living in rural areas, western regions, low-income groups, and those aged under 60, compared to their counterparts in urban areas, eastern regions, higher-income brackets, and those aged 60 and above.ConclusionInternet use can improve the health of middle-aged and older adults. Therefore, government departments, senior universities, communities, and families should collaborate to actively conduct digital skills training for older adults. Additionally, efforts should be accelerated to adapt electronic products to be more elder-friendly, helping older adults overcome the digital divide and thereby reducing health inequalities among middle-aged and older groups.

Fatigue Scattering Analytics and Prediction of SS 316L Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion

Abstract Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an enabling process manufacture of complex metal components. However, LPBF is prone to generate geometrical defects (e.g., porosity, lack of fusion), which causes a significant fatigue scattering. However, LPBF fatigue scattering data and analysis in the literature are not only sparse and limited to tension-compression mode but also inconsistent. This article presents a robust high-frequency fatigue testing method to construct stress-cycle curves of SS 316L to understand the scattering nature and predict the scattering pattern. A series of bending fatigue tests are performed at different stress amplitudes. Two different runout criteria are used to investigate fatigue life, fatigue limits, and scattering. The endurance limit reaches around 300 MPa for the defect size distribution at the selected process space. The defect size-based fatigue limit model is found to underestimate the endurance limit by about 30 MPa when comparing with the experimental data. Fatigue scattering is further calculated by using 95% prediction intervals, showing that low fatigue scattering is present at high stresses while a large variation of fatigue life occurs at stresses near the knee point.

An optimization DEM modelling method for soil-fibre undrained cyclic loading tests model based on the influence range of fibre

The computational cost of discrete element modelling is high owing to the limitations of particle size and contact in fibre modelling. This paper proposes an optimised discrete element method (DEM) for a hybrid model of soil and fibres based on the fibre influence range. First, a relative velocity state function is established based on the relative motion state between the fibres and soil particles under undrained cyclic loading. Subsequently, the influence range of the fibres is determined using the relative velocity function based on the first few cycles of the undrained cyclic loading numerical tests. Cluster and clump models of the fibre are then generated based on the influence range of the fibre. Finally, a symmetrical shape of the optimised model is developed by extracting the distribution length of the edge curve of the influence range along the vertical direction of the axis. In this study, the proposed optimised DEM was validated through a series of undrained cyclic loading numerical tests on fibre-reinforced soil. The results of the optimised model were highly consistent with those of the traditional model, and the computational time was significantly reduced. The cyclic loading timing for determining the range of influence of the fibre was analysed. The optimised model based on the influence range of the 15th cycles not only restored almost the same results but also saved the calculation cost by nearly eight times. The optimised model established based on the influence range after the 15th cycles had a slight influence on the results. In addition, the applicability of the optimised model is discussed. This paper provides new insights into the establishment of a hybrid model of soil and fibres.

Multiscale insights into polyamide membrane fouling during reverse osmosis of rare earth wastewater

The rare earth elements (REEs) industrial wastewater is characterized by high ammonium nitrogen and low-strength organic compounds. Reverse osmosis (RO) process is effective for the REEs wastewater treatment. However, membrane fouling deteriorated the RO process. In this work, the fouling mechanism during RO process of REEs wastewater was elucidated via multiscale methods. A series of bench-scale fouling tests with simulated REEs wastewater containing high NH4+–N and different concentrations of 2-ethylhexyl phosphonic acid mono-(2-ethylhexyl) ester (P507) were performed with a commercial RO membrane to evaluate the fouling extent of the RO process. A critical P507 concentration (0.25 mg L−1) was observed where the fouling pattern changed qualitatively. When the P507 concentration was lower than 0.25 mg L−1, the relative flux increased and the membrane surface became more hydrophilic. When P507 reached this critical point, severe fouling occurred accompanied with a more hydrophobic membrane surface. Multiscale simulations [i.e., molecular dynamics (MD) and dissipative particle dynamics (DPD)] revealed that the fouling layer network varied with P507 concentration. This work provides in-depth insights into membrane fouling mechanism in the REEs wastewater, and has enlightening significance for fouling control strategies and the innovation of anti-fouling membrane materials.

Experimental Evaluation of an Innovative Connection for the Reinforcement of Existing Infilled RC Buildings

The retrofitting of existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings with cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels presents a promising approach for enhancing seismic performance and overall structural resilience. However, effective integration of CLT with existing RC structures poses significant challenges, particularly concerning the design of connections between CLT panels and the RC structure. This paper introduces a novel connection that addresses these challenges by focusing on both structural and architectural considerations. Structurally, the connection is engineered to provide optimal stiffness, strength, and deformation capacity, ensuring robust performance under seismic and dynamic loads. Architecturally, the design incorporates a predefined weak component that facilitates easy access and rapid replacement of damaged parts, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance efforts. The proposed connection was evaluated through a series of monotonic and cyclic loading tests, demonstrating its structural efficiency and reliability. The results indicate that the new connection system not only meets the necessary structural requirements but also offers practical benefits for maintenance and repair, contributing to the overall sustainability and resilience of retrofitted RC buildings. This innovative approach represents a significant advancement in the field of structural retrofitting, providing a viable solution for integrating CLT panels into existing RC frameworks.

An enhanced electrokinetic system for remediation of Cu-polluted clay soils by integrating purging solutions and intermittent power

This study investigated the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of purging solutions enhanced by intermittent power in improving electrokinetic (EK) restoration of clay soils even under high levels of heavy metals (HM). In so doing, the artificially contaminated specimens containing a wide range of copper (Cu) were prepared and then subjected to a series of EK tests with various electrolytes and electric regimes. Macro and micro scale examinations revealed that under the unenhanced EK condition (i.e., continuous current without agents), the formation of non-conducting solid phases and/or the clogged fabric in the samples with the high dosages (> 250 mg/kg) of HM could dramatically impede the metal separation from the soil. Hence, increasing the remediation time would not be very effective in facilitating the decontamination process. It was observed that the EDTA-ameliorated treatment accompanied by pentetic acid and acetic acid can mitigate the metal precipitation/encapsulation effects induced by EK actions, resulting in improved rate of HM removal. In this case; however, a high portion of these enhancers would be required to ensure the stable mobility of ions and to achieve successful recovery. Such a limitation has been shown to be overcome by incorporating pulsed power (PP) at an optimal frequency. In fact, as evidenced by SEM-EDX and XRD analyses, the integration of chemical agents with PP could simultaneously retain the solubilized Cu species in the soil mass and modify the matrix tortuosity (i.e., the establishment of well-linked pores), two features that have been found to play essential roles in providing for favorable activity of HM ions during the EK operation. The corresponding refinements in the binary system would cause an almost 8 folds increase in the removal efficiency and a shorter (up to 30 %) time of treatment compared to conventional EK.