Alternative Energy Sources Research Articles

Highly Durable Chemoresistive Micropatterned PdAu Hydrogen Sensors: Performance and Mechanism.

Hydrogen (H2) is a promising alternative energy source for Net-zero, but the risk of explosion requires accurate and rapid detection systems. As the use of H2 energy expands, sensors require high performance in a variety of properties. Palladium (Pd) is an attractive material for H2 detection due to its high H2 affinity and catalytic properties. However, poor stability caused by volume changes and reliability due to environmental sensitivity remain obstacles. This study proposes a micropatterned thin film of PdAu with optimized composition (Pd0.62Au0.38) as a chemoresistive sensor to overcome these issues. At room temperature, the sensor has a wide detection range of 0.0002% to 5% and a fast response time of 9.5 s. Significantly, the sensor exhibits excellent durability for repeated operation (>35 h) in 5% H2 and resistance to humidity and carbon monoxide. We also report a negative resistivity change in PdAu, which is opposite to that of Pd. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to investigate the resistance change. DFT analysis revealed that H2 penetrates specific interstitial sites, causing partial lattice compression. The lattice compression causes a decrease in electrical resistance. This work is expected to contribute to the development of high-performance H2 sensors using Pd-based alloys.

Bio-inspired copper complexes with Cu2S cores: (solvent) effects on oxygen reduction reactions.

The need for effective alternative energy sources and "green" industrial processes is a more crucial societal topic than ever. In this context, mastering oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) is a key step to develop fuel cells or to propose alternatives to energy-intensive setups such as the anthraquinone process for hydrogen peroxide production. Achieving this goal using bio-inspired metal complexes based on abundant and non-toxic elements could provide an environmentally friendly option. Given the prevalence of Cu-containing active sites capable of reductive activation of dioxygen in nature, the development of Cu-based catalysts for the ORR thus appears to be a relevant approach. We herein report the preparation, full characterization and (TD)DFT investigation of a new dinuclear mixed-valent copper complex 6 exhibiting a Cu2S core and a bridging triflate anion. Its ORR activity was compared with that of its parent catalyst 1. Two types of solvents were used, acetonitrile and acetone, and various catalyst/Me8Fc (electron source) ratios were tested. Our results highlight a counterintuitive solvent effect for 1 and a drastic drop in the activity for 6 in coordinating acetonitrile together with the modification of its chemical structure.

Engineering lipase TLL to improve its acid tolerance and its biosynthesis in Trichoderma reesei for biodiesel production from acidified oil

Lipases catalyze the synthesis of biodiesel, which is an important renewable alternative energy source. Cost-efficient conversion of waste acidified oil to biodiesel entails acid-tolerant lipases which have not been extensively studied. This study showed that the commonly used Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase TLL displayed a weak acid tolerance and an unsatisfactory performance in biodiesel production from acidified oil. Directed evolution of TLL identified one TLL-T3 variant with three residue substitutions (A69S/V150P/N222G). TLL-T3 displayed significantly enhanced acid tolerance, and its application in acidified oil treatment led to a biodiesel yield up to 90 % (w/w). A scaled-up production of TLL-T3 in Trichoderma reesei was further achieved and the highest extracellular lipase activity reached 16,123 U/mL after fermentation optimization. These results provide new insights into structural adaptation to acid tolerance by lipases and show that TLL-T3 holds great potential in commercial biodiesel production from waste acidified oil.

Power Outage Perils: Assessing the Impact of load-Shedding on SMEs in Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, South Africa.

This qualitative case study delves into the profound impact of load-shedding, the deliberate and temporary interruption of electricity supply, on small and medium (SMEs) in the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (EMLM) of South Africa. The study, conducted within an interpretive research paradigm and a qualitative methodology, provides a nuanced understanding of how institutional forces shape SMEs' behavior, decision-making, and overall functioning in the face of energy disruptions. The persistent power cuts due to load-shedding have had a substantial toll on the survival of SMEs in the EMLM, with businesses across diverse sectors, including hospitality, beauty, manufacturing, retail, and services, struggling to maintain operations. The study brings to light the multifaceted challenges SMEs face, such as disruptions to daily activities, equipment damage, and significant financial losses. It also presents a concerning trend of layoffs by SMEs in the region, contradicting the National Development Plan’s (NDP) employment creation goals. The findings provide valuable insight for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders, underlining the urgent need for collaborative efforts to develop tailored programs, promote alternative energy sources, and advocate for policies that prioritize the energy needs of SMEs. The study acknowledges limitations related to geographical specificity, temporary constraints, and data source reliance and recommends further research to extend the geographical scope, conduct longitudinal analyses, and incorporate diverse data collection methods. By addressing these limitations, further studies can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the broader challenges and potential solutions faced by SMEs amid energy-related crises.

Methanization Test of Water Hyacinth and Azolla in Co-digestion and Fertilizing Value of Digestates in Benin (West Africa)

Faced with the need for an alternative energy source following the extreme pressure exerted on woody resources accompanied by the increase of aquatic pests which invade water resources, the construction of mini reactors producing clean energy, biogas based on these invasive plants becomes a challenge. This investigation aims to assess the methane production potential of water hyacinth and Azolla in co-digestion and the fertilizing quality of the digestates obtained. A bio methanization test based on various combinations of organic substrates composed of water hyacinth and Azolla alone or in co-digestion under laboratory conditions at mesophilic temperature and neutral pH after 27 days was carried out. The source of enrichment in anaerobic microorganisms for fermentation processes in micro bioreactors consists of fresh pig manure. It appears that the combination of organic substrates including 75% of water hyacinth generated the maximum quantity of methane which is 1234 liters for one ton of organic substrates. This methane production is 1.93 times greater than that of the bioreactor containing water hyacinth alone, 1.90 times that containing azolla, 1.5 times that containing 25% water hyacinth +75% azolla then 3.04 times that containing the bioreactor composed of a high proportion of crushed Azolla filiculoides. The digestates are rich in N, P, K, Ca and Mg and had an amending power according to the NFU 44051 standard. For the construction of bioreactors with aquatic pests for the benefit of communities, co-digestion with a combination of substrates with a high proportion of water hyacinth is suggested.

MXene-based semi-circle with a thin wire-shaped resonator wideband polarization-insensitive solar absorber

Fossil fuels’ supply peaks, decreases, and shortages are determined by their proven reserves, research, and consumption rates. With a large upfront cost, renewable and alternative energy sources are essential to solving the twin issues of energy and climate change. Solar absorbers are an excellent way to use renewable energy from the environment. This paper suggested an MXene-based semi-circle with a thin wire-shaped resonator (MSCWTWSR) solar absorber where the resonator layer consists of MXene material and Fe is used as substrate layer and the resonator has semi-circle and thin wire geometry which effectively absorbs the sun radiation with wideband. This proposed MSCWTWSR solar absorber works at 200–3000 (nm) wavelength and has more than 93% average absorption. The first band bandwidth of this MSCWTWSR solar absorber is 400 (nm), the second band is 530 (nm), and the third band is 470 (nm). This structure got more than 93% absorption in the AM 1.5 solar irradiation configuration. The structure gives in the Transverse electric (TE) field and Transverse magnetic (TM) field and the structure has polarization for insensitive. Furthermore, there is also investigated different incidence angles. A suggested article includes sections on testing for electric and magnetic intensities with a comparison table. The suggested solar absorber is employed in a distinct thermal heating application since MXene has a low thermal resistance and good thermal stability.

On the economic growth and environmental quality nexus in India

ABSTRACT This study extends prior research and takes a robust account of the effects of economic growth on environmental quality in India, using several single-equation and system estimators and considering multiple structural breaks over ‘long’ as well as ‘short’ time periods. The long-run model is estimated on annual data for the period 1951–52 to 2015–2016. The results provide robust support for the positive and significant effects of gross domestic product and financial development and for the negative effects of trade openness and domestic investment on carbon dioxide emissions. The presence of structural breaks challenges the validity of smooth and continuous relationship between income and emissions postulated in previous research. Policy intervention, in terms of the imposition of Pigouvian tax, allocation of carbon quotas and promotion of carbon ‘cap-and-tax’ and/or ‘cap-and-trade’ systems, is needed to correct market failure, to cover the external cost of pollution and to curtail the emission of carbon. It is worth subsidizing alternative sources of energy, adopting carbon-efficient technologies and switching to carbon-neutral substitutes.

Phytochemical analysis and GC-MS based bioactive compounds determination of 60 days Nigerian Vigna Radiata aqueous root extract

In the present study, the sturdy root of Nigerian Vigna radiata (L.) commonly called mung bean was investigated for the phytochemical content. This was necessitated as a result of limited information observed on the phytochemical content of fully matured Nigerian Vigna radiata root. 60 days old Vigna radiata (L.) plant, a newly introduced crop in Nigeria, was harvested from the farm of National Biotechnology and Research Development Agency, Abagana Centre, Nigeria. The roots were neatly separated from the plant, rinsed well with distilled water, air dried and grounded into flour. The 60 days old Nigerian Vigna radiata root flour sample (NVrR) subjected to preliminary phytochemical assay revealed the presence of 12 bioactive compounds with a remarkable high percentage concentration of 26.780% recorded for flavonoids content. Tannins also recorded appreciable value of 8.927% while values < 5% were noted for the remaining compounds. Further confirmation of the actual bioactive compounds present in 60 days old NVrR through GC-MS studies, generated 30 observable peaks with 28 bioactive compounds identified through spectrum matching with MassHunter\Library\NIST14.L spectral database. The major component, eluted at RT 23.565 (peak area 33.38%) revealed a bioactive compound which has been reported as an active ingredient in the production of detergents and biodiesel. This discovery represents a groundbreaking innovation in the utilization of NVrR for the production of briquettes, offering a cost-effective alternative energy source. Isolation of the identified compounds may prove the NVrR an important raw material for industrial productions.

The use of School Information System in Strengthening the Management of Government Secondary Schools in Meru District Council

This study investigated the use of the School Information System (SIS) in strengthening the management of government secondary schools in Meru District Council. The study adopted the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The Diffusion Innovation theory and Technological Acceptance model guided this study. A qualitative research approach alongside a case study research design was adopted. The targeted population of the study was 1203 including 46 heads of schools, 1083 teachers, 46 academic teachers, 26 ward secondary officers, 01 District Education Officer (DSEO) and 01 District Information Communication Technology Officer (DICTO) of which 37 were drawn. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to get respondents. Interview and questionnaire methods were used to collect data. The study's trustworthiness was maintained through the supervisor’s corrections, expert advice, and following all necessary ethical procedures. The study revealed that the School Information System carries user-friendly features that strengthen the management of government secondary schools such as student information management, and teacher and staff management. However, the facilities are not sufficiently available. Furthermore, the study found that the School Information System greatly enhances data management and analysis, streamlining administrative tasks and resource management, promoting teachers’ accountability and improving communication in government secondary schools. The study recommended that there should be the provision of enough facilities, alternative sources of energy, seminars, and training to promote the implementation and use of School Information System in government secondary schools.

Estimation of power conversion efficiency up to 12% of nanocomposites of catechin and carboxylated graphene quantum dots doped/functionalised with boron as photosensitizers in DSSC applications

ABSTRACT The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of dye-sensitised solar cells (DSSCs) measures their solar energy conversion performance. With PCEs below 15%, significant energy loss occurs, leading researchers to seek improvements to reduce fossil fuel dependence and enhance DSSCs as an alternative energy source. However, predicting PCE theoretically is challenging due to its dependence on various parameters. In this work, the improved normal model was used to predict the PCE accurately using DFT and TD-DFT of four nanocomposites consisting of catechin natural compound attached to carboxylated graphene quantum dots (GQD) that have been further doped at the centre/edge and decorated with a boronic group. The nanocomposites have been adsorbed on a TiO2 cluster for PCE estimation. This is the first attempt of using decorated GQD with boronic groups in a DSSC and estimating its PCE. The results show that the PCE of catechin improved from 0.077% to the range of 3.96% – 12.61% (B1-CG-C@TiO2 – B2-CG-C@TiO2). This was due to the improved short-circuit current density ( J sc ) and fill factor (FF) of all the nanocomposites and the improved open-circuit voltage ( V oc ) of all nanocomposites except B1-CG-C@TiO2 in comparison to catechin. This means all the designed nanocomposites are more promising candidates than catechin. Highlights Adsorption at carboxyl group is the most stable site among hydroxyl and GQD base. The improved normal model gives accurate V oc results. All designed nanocomposites exhibited higher PCEs than isolated catechin. Edged doping exhibited the highest V oc , high J sc , and highest PCE of 12.61%.

Integrating biochar production in biorefineries: towards a sustainable future and circular economy

AbstractBiochar, a carbon‐rich material derived from organic biomass under low‐O2 conditions, has gained importance due to its role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon. It can be used as an alternative energy source and has applications in nutrient cycling, improving soil properties, and removing heavy metals and organic pollutants, thus contributing to sustainable agriculture and environmental remediation. In the face of alarming climate change, rising energy demand, and increasing pollution, the integration of biochar production into biorefineries is an important strategy to promote a sustainable and circular economy. Adopting a holistic approach to biomass utilization by developing strategies to maximize biochar production along with the production of other value‐added products while improving its quality can increase biorefineries' overall sustainability and efficiency. Fine‐tuning the biorefinery process from feedstock selection to co‐production, optimizing pyrolysis conditions, and integrating it with other technologies can help to achieve this goal while generating zero waste and diversified revenues. With the biochar market growing exponentially, further research into the long‐term impact of biochar on carbon sequestration and its application in the environment is the next step.

Food security in Pakistan: Investigating the spillover effect of Russia-Ukraine conflict

This is study investigates inter-connectedness of Russia-Ukraine conflict with wheat prices in Pakistan through oil prices, exchange rate, economic policy uncertainty. This objective is realized by employing cross-quantilogram, rolling window multiple correlation, and TVP-Var approaches on weekly data from 7 to 1–2021 to 9–3–2023. The estimated results of cross-quantilogram, rolling window multiple correlation reveal significant positive co-movement between Russian and Ukraine conflict and wheat prices. The major variables responsible for the spillover effect are oil prices, depreciation of exchange rate, and economic policy uncertainty. The finding urges to stabilize exchange rate and economic policy uncertainty along with finding alternative cheap energy sources.

Examination of the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy in Turkish Legislation

Population growth, industrialization and technological advances increase the demand for energy. Due to problems such as global warming, environmental pollution and destruction, the trend towards alternative energy sources continues on a global scale. For this reason, the use of nuclear energy, one of the secondary energy sources, has tended to increase in recent years. Reasons such as the geographically uneven geographical distribution of resources that are raw materials for energy among countries and their exhaustibility, fluctuations in energy prices and the economical production of nuclear energy are among the reasons why countries in the world turn to nuclear energy. A number of accidents at nuclear power plants have had a negative impact on the perception of nuclear power plants, but for different reasons, nuclear energy is gaining popularity again. Nuclear power plants are the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to nuclear power, but it is also used effectively in medical treatments and applications of various branches of science as well as energy production. In global energy production; the fact that it aims to reduce carbon emissions by providing more energy production within the scope of sustainability, the continuous and uninterrupted continuation of electricity production using nuclear, the production of electricity at more affordable costs in nuclear power plants compared to other power plants (thermal, renewable, etc.), the fact that greenhouse gas emissions are almost negligible, and the use of nuclear technology in many fields such as physics, medicine, transportation, agriculture as well as energy production have made nuclear energy back on the agenda of countries in recent years. In nuclear energy, nuclear waste and their storage processes continue to be discussed as a problem in this process. For these reasons, the possibility of peaceful use of nuclear power has been questioned in academic platforms and various criteria have been determined This article examines Turkey's compliance with the criteria for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and clarifies the development process in this regard. Turkey's legislation on nuclear energy, international conventions, nuclear safety, radiation control criteria and compliance with national legislation will be examined.

Low frequency vibration monitoring of wind turbine tower based on optical fiber sensor and its potential for internet of things

Among all renewable energy sources, wind energy is a cost-effective alternative energy source. The majority of wind turbines are built in harsh environments due to their power generation characteristics, which is one of the prime reasons resulting in frequent failures of wind turbine. Among various failures, the vibration of wind turbine tower cannot be ignored because it is a precursor of the failure of the wind turbine. The electrical vibration sensors have the problems of power supply and electromagnetic interference for the condition assessment of wind turbine tower. A vibration sensor based on optical Fabry-Perot (F-P) interference principle with high sensitivity is designed, fabricated and characterized to further meet the requirements of vibration detection of wind turbine tower. The mechanical simulation model of the diaphragm and optical vibration platform is constructed to verify the sensing characteristic of the F-P optical fiber vibration sensor (OFVS). The experiment results indicate a resonant frequency of the F-P OFVS of 223 Hz, an output sensitivity of 122.22 mV/m·s−2 at 10 Hz, and a horizontal output of less than 6 %. In addition, the designed F-P OFVS possesses the superiorities of compact structure, passive and excellent anti-electromagnetic interference, and has a wide application prospect in the vibration detection of the wind turbine tower.

Comprehensive case study on the technical feasibility of Green hydrogen production from photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems

AbstractThe growing demand for alternative energy sources to alleviate environmental impacts highlights the need to move from fossil fuels to renewable energy. This study demonstrated the technical feasibility of using a solar photovoltaic (PV) system for the production of green hydrogen. This research examined electrical and power data from a PV plant in Irecê, Bahia, using open data sources to provide insights into the production of green hydrogen from renewable sources. The system mainly depends on the use of a renewable source, PV solar energy, integrated with batteries, electrolyzers, and hydrogen tanks. Electrolyzer, battery, and hydrogen tank sizing analysis for optimal hydrogen production was effectively conducted using HOMER Energy software. The predicted system topology prioritizes a local DC network, optimizing efficiency for electrolyzers that have inherently low efficiency. The electrolyzer simulation involves initial Python‐based sizing and comprehensive sizing with HOMER Energy software, ensuring accuracy within a 10% discrepancy limit. This highlights the importance of analytical calculations and optimization software for sizing more complex systems.

CROWDFUNDING AND FUNDRAISING AS INNOVATIVE FINANCIAL TOOLS IN PROVIDING ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES

Objectives. Search and substantiation of directions for investing investment resources in alternative energy sources using crowdfunding and fundraising mechanisms. Method. Research methods in this scientific article are statistical, logical, historical, graphic, as well as general methods of scientific thinking: analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction. The results. The existence of the problem of insufficient financial instruments for building a system of alternative regenerative energy sources is substantiated. The necessity of an in-depth study and analysis of the financial tools of crowdfunding and fundraising for more effective provision of financial resources for the production of alternative renewable energy sources has been proven. Scientific novelty. The need for innovative financial instruments for "green" projects of renewable sources of energy resources has been identified. It is proposed and justified to use fundraising and crowdfunding start-up projects for the most optimal financing of social, so-called "green" investments in renewable energy sources at the current stage of the military crisis. Practical significance. The practical implementation of the proposed measures for the development of innovative projects based on fundraising and crowdfunding in the system of alternative renewable energy sources in the conditions of a crisis state of the economy will save financial resources and increase the profitability of domestic enterprises in the energy sector, which will have a positive effect on the general macroeconomic situation in the state.

Improving State policy in the field of alternative energy

Subject. This article discusses the features of the development of alternative energy in Russia. Objectives. The article aims to summarize the foreign practices of implementing government policy in the field of alternative energy. Methods. For the study, we used systematization and generalization. Results. The article shows that in Russia, programmes of government support for alternative energy are aimed at attracting private investment and improving the efficiency of resource use. The main problems are related to the legal regulation and assessment of the efficiency of alternative energy sources. Conclusions. Programmes aimed at enhancing the attractiveness of alternative energy for the end consumer, as well as projects for the development of single large projects that can be scaled up over time, are the most relevant for Russia.

Ocean wave energy learning project (OWELP): a program to communicate alternative energy technology

ABSTRACT Background Efforts to communicate the use of alternative energy as a solution to the continued scarcity of world energy were continuously carried out. However, not all countries with abundant potential for alternative energy sources focus on this, resulting in a lack of human resources who study the field of alternative energy. Purpose This study aims to communicate the topic of ocean wave energy and its technology as an alternative energy source through the Ocean Wave Energy Learning Project (OWELP) program. Sample This study utilized a purposive sampling method on 31 pre-service physics teachers taking environmental physics courses at one of the universities in a small area in Indonesia. Methods This study utilized a mixed-method research of explanatory design. The first stage of quantitative research used a pre-experimental approach with a one-group pretest-posttest design. Data collection instruments were in the form of knowledge test sheets consisting of essay questions, observation sheets on the implementation of lecture programs, rubrics of product assessment, and interview sheets. The next stage is the phase of collecting qualitative data to explain the results obtained in the quantitative phase through interviews. Quantitative data on learning outcomes were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test, a further test of effect size, and N-gain analysis, while the qualitative data were analyzed descriptively. Results The results of the data analysis showed that the OWELP program positively influenced students’ mastery of the concepts. The OWELP program also effectively increased pre-service physics teachers’ mastery of ocean wave energy concepts as an alternative energy source. In addition, the OWELP programcan indirectly equip various skills such as critical thinking, creative thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication. Conclusion The OWELP program can be used to improve pre-service physics teachers’ mastery of the concept of using ocean wave energy as an alternative energy source.

Comprehensive Resilience Assessment Framework for Water Distribution Networks

A novel comprehensive resilience assessment framework for drinking water systems is proposed integrating different resilience perspectives (i.e., robustness, autonomy, flexibility, reliability, preparedness and recovery), oriented by objectives, criteria and metrics, applicable at the tactical level. The resilience assessment framework is applied to a Portuguese real water distribution network, enabling the evaluation of the system’s resilience. The infrastructure dimension is the main contributor to the low resilience results, particularly in terms of infrastructural robustness, as the infrastructure has exceeded the average service life and has low rehabilitation rates. In terms of autonomy, the system highly depends on external water and energy sources. Regarding the service dimension, most of the drinking water available is used for non-potable uses (e.g., irrigation), without alternative sources. The detailed diagnosis identified network area R6 as the priority area. Assets rehabilitation, increasing storage capacity, finding alternative water and energy sources, and minimizing non-potable uses are relevant improvement measures that promote the reinforcement of the system’s resilience. The resilience assessment framework is a very useful tool for the daily and tactical management of drinking water systems.

Energy, exergy, environmental, and economic (4E) analyses of the usability of various nano-sized particles added lubricant in a heat pump system

The need for energy is rising significantly with the growth of technology in the world. This energy need is largely met by fossil fuels. The enhancement in their prices and the damage they induce to the environment, scientists have turned to alternative energy sources due to the depletion of fossil fuels. In recent years, these alternative energy sources have come to the fore as solar, wind, and wave energy. However, heating and refrigeration systems, whose share of energy consumption in buildings in the world is 40 %, can also compete with these alternative energy sources. In particular, heat pumps (HP) are at a level that can compete with renewable energy sources to seriously reduce this rate. In this study, different nanoparticles were added to the Polyol ester oil (POE) utilized in the compressor to enhance the performance of the HP. Thermodynamic, environmental, and economic performances of the obtained nanolubricants at different concentrations (0.5 wt% and 1 wt%) and flow rates (15, 30, and 45 g/s) were evaluated. The highest COP value of the HP was calculated as 4.14 at 0.5 wt% B-POE at 45 g/s. The best energy consumption in the HP was obtained with 0.5 wt% B-POE nanolubricant with a decrease of 10.96 % at 45 g/s compared to pure POE. The highest exergy efficiency in the HP was calculated at 0.5 wt% B-POE nanolubricant with a 13.53 % increase at 30 g/s compared to pure POE. The best exergoeconomic parameter (Rg,ex) performance was determined as 3.7148 kWh/$ in 1 wt% TiO2-POE nanolubricant at 45 g/s. The best enviro-economic value of 0.16182 ¢/h was obtained with 0.5 wt% B-POE nanolubricant at 45 g/s. In line with the results obtained, it was observed that the B-POE nanolubricant has a performance that can compete with the good-performing TiO2-POE nanolubricant.