Alternative Energy Sources Research Articles

A comprehensive analysis of the optimal GWO based FOPID MPPT controller for grid-tied photovoltaics system under atmospheric uncertainty

Recent years have seen an increase in the deployment of renewable energy sources on power system networks as a result of the gradual development of renewable energy sources. In order to utilize these intermittent sources, grid integration is crucial, since weather conditions are hard to predict accurately and do not match the pattern of generation. As a result, controlling energy becomes an unavoidable challenge when the alternative energy source is connected to the grid in a distributed manner. A number of factors contribute to the problem, including sporadic sources, daytime expenses, and limitations concerning the specifications of solar panels. Therefore, a more robust control system is needed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the renewable energy integrated power network. Thus, this manuscript presents the design, implementation, and performance of an improved fractional order PID (FOPID) controller for proposed grid-connected photovoltaic systems. To maximize the power from the photovoltaic source, the controller is designed to extract as much energy as possible. In addition to having the adaptive nature of a PID controller, the proposed FOPID controller is capable of optimizing its gain parameter according to the generator and grid side parameters being considered. The proposed study utilized grey wolf optimization (GWO) to tune the FOPID controller for tracking the quadrature axis model, DC link voltage and current regulation, and maximizing the maximum power point. Further, FOPID is used to perform the system's current control functions, and each time the error is measured, the regulating parameters are updated accordingly. This paper contrasts fuzzy logic controllers (FLC), flying squirrel search optimization (FSSO), and PSO-tuned FOPID controllers with the proposed work. The simulation's results are displayed and examined in the section on results and outcomes. The obtained results demonstrate maximum solar power output under erratic weather conditions, validating the effectiveness of the proposed controller.

Alternative Energy in Nigeria: Prospects and Limitations

Energy is a major driving ingredient to the development of any country and determines the quality of life a person lives. Accessibility to constant energy supply is a major challenge in this part of the world because the demand for energy is more than the supply, and since the nation’s major source of energy is fossil fuel, it’s only an eye-opener that our overdependence on this energy source doesn’t meet the demands since energy drives forward an economy, Nigeria could as well not be developed for a couple of number of years. Alternative energy sources are examined in this review especially the renewable source of energy in Nigeria. A delve into other (alternative) sources of energy were also looked into. This review also presents the projections and limits of the alternative sources of energy in Nigeria and the way forward. Policies that can be enacted to promote the use of alternative energy were also identified and some of the limitations were stretched out. Alternative energy sources should be considered priority in the country’s agenda since more than 60% of the nation’s population has access to the national grid of which constitutes more than half of the nation’s populace.

Carbon-Monoxide Assisted Synthesis of Cobalt-Nickel Phosphides for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Alkaline water electrolysis is a method for production of hydrogen as an alternative source for renewable energy. This method can be completely free of greenhouse gas emissions if it is paired with another alternative energy source, such as solar energy or wind power, to provide the necessary electricity to drive the reaction. Water electrolysis requires catalysts to make that necessary amount of electricity low enough for competitive hydrogen production in the current market. Vast numbers of studies have been performed in an attempt to fill this need for cost-effective catalysts for water electrolysis. This work focuses on the development of synthesis methods for cobalt-nickel phosphide catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for water electrolysis in alkaline media. The methods for preparation of the catalysts are explored for cobalt, nickel, and cobalt-nickel alloy phosphides in the presence of carbon monoxide as a shape-controlling capping agent. Depending on the condition of carbon monoxide addition, the reaction results in high vs. low-aspect ratio nanorods or nanospheres for mono- or bimetallic cobalt-nickel phosphide nanostructures. These phosphides are then subjected to evaluation for HER via cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry to study the effects of morphology on their HER activity. Materials characterization such as XRD, TEM, and ICP-MS are performed before the HER electrochemical evaluation for better understanding of the structure-activity relationship. The catalytic activities of these phosphides are also compared to the noble metal benchmark HER catalyst Pt/C in the same environment at their equal mass loadings. The best-performing phosphide is further tested for HER at increased mass loadings to study the effects of catalyst loadings on the mass transport and thus the activity. Further TEM characterization is performed on the most active catalyst after HER to evaluate morphological stability. It is found that in order to achieve an overpotential at the current density of 100 mA/cm2 comparable to Pt/C for 50 μg/cm2, the necessary loading for the phosphide is 250 µg/cm2.

Enhanced Electrohydrogenation of Cis,Cis-Muconic Acid to Trans-3-Hexenedioic Acid Using Hybrid Metal/Carbon Fiber Cathodes

Organic electrosynthesis is a long-known technique for diverse product development and efficient synthesis. With the recent rise of biomass as an alternative carbon and energy source, electrochemistry is further gaining popularity due to its inherently green and environmentally benign operating conditions. Electrochemical hydrogenation (ECH) reactions are particularly attractive for biomass conversion due to their ability to abstract hydrogen from water, tolerate biogenic impurities, and utilize Earth-abundant base metal electrodes. Moreover, the rate and selectivity of the reaction can be tubed by controlling the electrode material, operating potential/current density, and reactor design. However, the implementation of this decarbonized technology for chemical production is still hampered by low productivity and, as a result, unfavorable economics. cis,cis-Muconic acid (ccMA), a bioderived C6 diunsaturated diacid platform molecule, can be converted into commodity chemicals like caprolactam, adipic acid (AA), and terephthalic acid, with AA being of particular interest for the synthesis of nylon 6,6.1 Apart from various drop-in chemicals, ccMA can also be electrochemically upgraded to trans-3-hexenedioic acid (t3HDA), a potential bio-advantaged substitute for AA as the additional C=C bond in t3HDA can be leveraged to synthesize performance-advantaged polyamides.2,3 In this work, we investigated the electrohydrogenation of ccMA to t3HDA over Pb cathodes. We demonstrate that the reaction follows a radical-based pathway involving sequential electron transfer and hydrogen addition in solution to selectively produce t3HDA (100% selectivity). Next, we contacted the cathode with carbon felts (CF) to increase productivity. CF are often used in fuel cells and H2O2 electrolyzers due to their excellent conductivity, porosity for enhanced turbulence, and ability to tune the gas-liquid-solid three-phase interface. Following similar principles, we placed a CF (3mm. thickness) in contact with the Pb cathode to lower the charge transfer resistance (~3Ω) at the interface. The surface functionalities of carbon allowed us to further tune the hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity of our hybrid electrode. Molecular dynamics (MD) calculations provided critical insights into the role of surface functionalities and guided the optimal functionalization of CF’s surface. Combining reactor configuration with fine-tuning of the electrode’s microenvironment, we were able to achieve a 50x increase in t3HDA productivity reaching up to 20 g/cm2/day at a current density of 200 mA/cm2. We further replaced the kinetically sluggish oxygen-evolution reaction with the glucose oxidation reaction at the anode, allowing us to operate the electrolyzer at a lower cell potential.Overall, ECH represents a valuable alternative to thermochemical transformations for biomass upgrading. This work provides critical insights into reactor modifications for the scaled-up synthesis of bio-derived performance monomers via hybrid microbial electrosynthesis (HMES).

Dampening Humidifier Effects on Electrochemical Pressure Impedance Spectroscopy (EPIS) Fuel Cell Diagnostics

Fuel cells are versatile, low-emission alternative energy sources, but their optimization and failure analyses are complex due to their black-box nature. Conventional in-situ diagnostic techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), are widely used to deconvolute transient processes within operating fuel cells. EIS is invaluable to understanding some of these processes, but other processes within the cell, such as mass transport and individual water fluxes, get overshadowed and are hard to detect.In an effort to provide information that is currently unattainable with conventional fuel cell diagnostic techniques, this project focuses on the further development of electrochemical pressure impedance spectroscopy (EPIS). EPIS is based on a pressure alternating frequency response analysis (pFRA). This diagnostic method is similar to EIS, except that it implements mechanical perturbations in the form of gas pressure oscillations, rather than voltage or current oscillations, to achieve an electrochemical response. Since EIS is based on electrical perturbations, the results are primarily based on the transport of electrons and provides electron-based performance metrics, including charge transfer, adsorption, diffusion, and double-layer behaviors. Conversely, the mechanical perturbations in EPIS enable the investigation of non-electron-based mechanisms, such as flow and gas transport resistances.This project builds from the work of Zang et al., who developed an experimental setup for EPIS and showed that pressure perturbations affect local reaction rates and transport phenomena within the cell, providing a sinusoidal voltage response.1 Prior work focused on the EPIS signal at the outlet, as the oscillation diminished by the time it reached the inlet of the cell. Shirsath et al. proposed that the excess volume of the humidifier before the fuel cell dampens the pressure oscillation signal and acts as an extra capacitor.2 To mitigate this, this project focused on the implementation of additional hardware between the humidifier and the cell inlet to act as a counter resistance and amplify the inlet pressure oscillation and subsequent EPIS response. The setup was fully explored through a series of targeted tests focused on identifying the most effective system parameters to validate the configuration and achieve optimal results. This hardware implementation aims to reduce the system effects and provide a more consistent pressure oscillation down the channel to further decouple the EPIS response and provide more accurate diagnostics of the cell. 1 Zhang, Q., Homayouni, H., Gates, B. D., Eikerling, M. H., & Niroumand, A. M. (2022). Electrochemical Pressure Impedance Spectroscopy for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells via Back-Pressure Control. Journal of The Electrochemical Society, 169(4), 044510. 2 Shirsath, A. V., Raël, S., Bonnet, C., Schiffer, L., Bessler, W., & Lapicque, F. (2020). Electrochemical pressure impedance spectroscopy for investigation of mass transfer in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Current Opinion in Electrochemistry, 20, 82–87.

Developing High-Purity Sodium Oxychloride Solid-State Electrolyte for Sodium-Ion Batteries

Sodium-ion batteries have attracted significant attention as an alternative energy source to lithium-ion batteries. Solid-state sodium oxyhalides (Na3OX, X = Cl, Br, I) have the advantages of easy synthesis from cheap raw materials. In this study, sodium oxychloride (Na3OCl) antiperovskite was synthesized using a microwave furnace, the first instance in currently available literature. Using the microwave furnace also significantly decreased the reaction time when compared to other published procedures. The ionic conductivity of Na3OCl pellets was determined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Na3OCl was hot pressed between sodiated hard carbon in a PEEK lined split cell with stainless steel current collectors. The symmetric cell was tested at room temperature with varying external pressures (1 MPa to 12 MPa). Symmetric cells were also tested at constant external pressure (6 MPa) from room temperature to 80˚C.Arrhenius plots demonstrated linear behavior in the whole temperature range with a calculated activation energy of 0.98 eV. The melting and crystallization temperatures were determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The purity of as-synthesized Na3OCl was evaluated using x-ray diffraction (XRD). The results on chemical composition and crystal-to-glass phase transformations were produced from in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy in the temperature range from 25˚C up to the melting point of Na3OCl. Cross-sectional SEM images of the Na3OCl pellets showed regions that were dense, but also regions with many pores (≤ 5 μm). SEM also showed microcracks that ranged from 1-5 μm. Future work will investigate methods of minimizing pores and microcracks during the cell manufacturing process as these surface features can impede efficient ionic movement.

Catalytic Activities of Ir-Based Pyrochlore-Type Oxides Doped with Divalent Cations for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Alternative energy sources to fossil fuels are essential for a sustainable society, and hydrogen energy is expected to be a solution to environmental and energy problems. Currently, proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers are becoming widely used for the electrochemical production of hydrogen due to their advantages such as high efficiency. However, the highly acidic conditions and the large overpotentials of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode are problems, and the development of catalysts that are stable and highly active in acidic aqueous solutions is important for further popularization.Ir-based oxides with pyrochlore structure (A2B2O7) are known to exhibit high catalytic activities in acidic aqueous solutions. Recently, it has been reported that the improved catalytic activities of Pr2Ir2O7 by Zn doping, which controlled the composition of A-site elements in the pyrochlore structure [1]. In this study, we synthesized Pr2-x MgxIr2O7 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5), in which a part of trivalent cation Pr3+ was replaced by divalent cation Mg2+ and improved the OER catalytic activity in acidic aqueous solutions.Pr2-x MgxIr2O7 was synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The catalyst was mixed with a conductivity aid carbon (Vulcan XC-72) and a cationic conductive ionomer (Nafion) at a weight ratio of 5:1:1 and dispersed in 2-propanol to form a catalyst ink. The catalytic activity was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) using a glassy carbon rotating disk electrode (RDE) as a working electrode, a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) as a reference electrode, and a platinum wire as a counter electrode. The electrolyte was a 0.1 mol dm-3 HClO4 solution saturated with oxygen, and the CV scanning range was 1.1 to 1.7 V with respect to the RHE, scanning speed was 20 mV s-1, and the RDE rotation speed was 1200 rpm. The stability of the catalyst in acidic aqueous solutions was evaluated by chronopotentiometry (CP) using the same cell.X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis measurements of the synthesized materials confirmed that the desired compounds were obtained, and CV measurements showed that the OER activity of Pr2-x MgxIr2O7 increased in the first 20 cycles for all compositions, and then stabilized over several tens of cycles. The cycle change was similar to that of Pr2Ir2O7, suggesting that the surface rearrangement proceeds in acidic aqueous solutions [2]. Linear sweep voltammogram (LSV) and OER activity normalized by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area were measured at the 20th cycle, and the catalytic activity stabilized at a high value. The OER activity was enhanced by Mg substitution in the catalysts of Pr2-x Mg x Ir2O7.References L. Zhu, C. Ma, Z. Wang, X. Gong, L. Cao, and J. Yang, Appl. Surf. Sci., 31, 151840 (2022).C. Shang, C. Cao, D. Yu, Y. Yan, Y. Lin, H. Li, T. Zheng, X. Yan, W. Yu, S. Zhou, and J. Zeng, Adv. Mater., 31, 1805104 (2018).

Electrodeposited Ni-Fe-TiO2 Alloy Composites for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Hydrogen is a carbon-free alternative energy source that is environmentally friendly, has high energy density, and is a promising fuel for future generations. Water splitting is an efficient way to produce hydrogen, requiring a catalyst with a small overpotential and Tafel slope, and good stability. However, only 4 % of global hydrogen is produced by water electrolysis due to high cost and lack of inexpensive replacements of the active platinum electrocatalyst.1 However, replacing these noble metal electrocatalysts with those comprised of lower, earth-abundant elements remains challenging as these materials impart a higher overpotential and thus require higher energy. Guided by the recognised enhancements of TiO2 particles in Co-Mo alloys for HER, earth-abundant, low-cost Ni and Fe metals are examined as composite electrocatalysts Ni-Fe-TiO2 towards HER.2 Nano-scale TiO2 particles were embedded into Ni-Fe alloys by using galvanic and pulse-reverse electrodeposition, onto rotating cylinder electrodes. Pulse-reverse electrodeposition considerably increased the concentration of the particles incorporated into the alloy. The composition and morphology were characterized by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The addition of particles to the electrolyte affected both the deposit composition and morphology. The alloy composites were then used as electrocatalysts in 1 M KOH to characterize HER via linear sweep voltammetry on the resulting hydroxide surface. The surface area was examined in a ferri/ferrocyanide electrolyte. The polarization data in 1 M KOH shows a significant reduction in the HER overpotential when TiO2 particles are present in the Ni-Fe deposit. The surface analysis of Ni-Fe and Ni-Fe-TiO2 confirmed that the improvement in HER activity is not due to surface roughness but an intrinsic one. The stability of the electrocatalysts under an electrolysis for HER was examined at -10 mA/cm2 for 24 hr and the working electrode potential remained stable over time; Tafel polarization curves after electrolysis were similar to those prior to electrolysis. References Le, P. A., Trung, V. D., Nguyen, P. L., Phung, T. V. B., Natsuki, J., & Natsuki, T. RSC advances, 13(40), 28262-28287 (2023).C. Wang, H. K. Bilan, and E. J. Podlaha. J. Electrochem. Soc. 166 F661 (2019). C. Wang and E. J. Podlaha, J. Electrochem. Soc. 167, 132502 (1~4) (2020).

Battery Lifetime Prediction and Degradation Analysis with Machine Learning Method

Due to environmental pollution and climate crisis caused by fossil fuels, eco-friendly alternative energy sources are gaining attention. Particularly, electric vehicles (EVs) are being recognized as the next-generation means of transportation. The most crucial technologies in electric vehicles are lithium-ion batteries and Battery Management Systems (BMS). However, the extended lifespan of lithium-ion batteries leads to prolonged assessment periods, making it challenging to measure and improve performance over time. Additionally, the operation of batteries under various conditions makes it difficult to measure state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH) in real-time, introducing many variables. With recent advancements in predictive technology through machine learning, accurate predictions can be made without complex physical knowledge, leveraging high-quality data.In this study, machine learning techniques were applied using charge/discharge data from lithium-ion LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC532)/graphite pouch cell batteries. The values measured during the initial charge/discharge cycles were converted into variables that could assess battery degradation modes. Machine learning algorithms were then applied, followed by model tuning to reduce overfitting and enhance accuracy. This research contributes to real-time battery management system data using machine learning technology to predict the remaining useful life (RUL) of lithium-ion batteries with high accuracy, using only initial cycles. This approach enhances the efficiency of BMS data in real-world scenarios and contributes to the overall time efficiency of battery research. Acknowledgement This research was supported by National R&D Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by Ministry of Science and ICT(NRF-2021K1A4A8A01079455).

Effects of Fuel Cell Operating Conditions on Electrochemical Pressure Impedance Spectroscopy (EPIS) Diagnostics

Fuel cells are versatile, low-emission alternative energy sources, but their optimization and failure analyses are complex due to their black-box nature. Conventional in-situ diagnostic techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), are widely used to deconvolute transient processes within operating fuel cells. EIS is invaluable to understanding some of these processes, but other processes within the cell, such as mass transport and individual water fluxes, get overshadowed and are hard to detect.In an effort to provide information that is currently unattainable with conventional fuel cell diagnostic techniques, this project focuses on the further development of electrochemical pressure impedance spectroscopy (EPIS). EPIS is based on a pressure alternating frequency response analysis (pFRA). This diagnostic method is similar to EIS, except that it implements mechanical perturbations in the form of gas pressure oscillations, rather than voltage or current oscillations, to achieve an electrochemical response. Since EIS is based on electrical perturbations, the results are primarily based on the transport of electrons and provides electron-based performance metrics, including charge transfer, adsorption, diffusion, and double-layer behaviors. Conversely, the mechanical perturbations in EPIS enable the investigation of non-electron-based mechanisms, such as flow and gas transport resistances.This project builds from the work of Zang et al., who developed an experimental setup for EPIS and showed that pressure perturbations affect local reaction rates and transport phenomena within the cell, providing a sinusoidal voltage response.1 This study focused on systematically analyzing the effects of varying fuel cell operating conditions to better understand the benefits and limitations of EPIS as a diagnostic technique. The EPIS response and subsequent flow resistances and gas transport resistances were monitored to understand the effects of variations in the cathode inlet relative humidity, the cell inlet temperatures, and the oxygen stoichiometry (stoic). The goal is to improve the metrics by which fuel cells are measured by providing new methods to assist in the real-time probing of processes and failure mechanisms within operating cells. 1 Zhang, Q., Homayouni, H., Gates, B. D., Eikerling, M. H., & Niroumand, A. M. (2022). Electrochemical Pressure Impedance Spectroscopy for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells via Back-Pressure Control. Journal of The Electrochemical Society, 169(4), 044510.

Long-term sustainability of the water-agriculture-energy nexus in Brazil's MATOPIBA region: A case study using system dynamics.

The global demand for agricultural commodities has driven extensive land conversion to agriculture in Brazil, especially in the MATOPIBA region. This area encompasses the Rio Grande Basin, a major tributary of the São Francisco Basin that is known for expanding intensive irrigated agriculture and hydropower generation. However, recent data reveal declining precipitation and aquifer recharge, potentially exacerbating ongoing water and land conflicts. This study investigates the long-term sustainability of agricultural expansion amid the worsening water scarcity using a system dynamics model. Findings suggest that rising costs and decreasing profits due to irrigation water shortages may hinder the expansion of irrigated land. By 2040, the irrigation demand may remain partly unmet, while downstream flow and baseflow could decrease. Additionally, agricultural expansion will significantly raise energy demand, posing a developmental challenge. We suggest that ensuring the sustainability of the Rio Grande Basin depends on improved water management and exploring alternative energy sources to address existing constraints.

Synthesis and characterization of azo cross‐linked polymer as a new catalyst for the production of hydrogen gas by methanolysis of NaBH4

AbstractThe intensive use of fossil fuels has profound impacts on all ecosystems, primarily contributing to global warming through greenhouse gas emissions. To mitigate these impacts, alternative energy sources like hydrogen are crucial. In this study, azo cross‐linked polymer with 4‐aminophenyl sulfone and resorcinol were synthesized by a green synthesis method. The polymer was extensively characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunner‐Emmett‐Teller analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy analyses. Subsequently, the catalytic performance of the polymer in hydrogen production from NaBH4 via methanolysis was investigated. At this stage, the parameters affecting hydrogen production (catalyst and NaBH4 amounts, MeOH volume and temperature) were systematically studied to determine optimum conditions. The maximum HGR values of the polymer was 13,100 and 27,000 mL min−1 gcat−1 at 30 and 60°C, respectively and its activation energy was 10.45 kJ mol−1. After optimization, the reusability of azo polymer was tested with 5 cycles. The theoretical volume of hydrogen was produced in all 5 cycles. But with each cycle, the hydrogen production time increased. The main purpose of this study was to demonstrate novel azo‐linked polymers with high catalytic activity in hydrogen production. The results revealed significant potential of the polymer for hydrogen generation. Overall, this research highlights the promising role of azo cross‐linked polymers as effective catalysts for hydrogen production, offering new perspectives and pathways towards sustainable energy solutions.

Results of experimental development of a laboratory water distillation installation based on a heat pump and a photovoltaic panel

Modern technologies and the continuous rise in water consumption require efficient and environmentally friendly methods of its extraction. According to the energy development strategy of the Russian Federation until 2035, the use of alternative energy sources in industry is a priority task for production. The use of renewable resources to produce distilled water for the needs of enterprises is becoming increasingly important. The innovative technology of a laboratory installation, combining water distillation using a heat pump and a photovoltaic panel, allows not only to obtain purified water, but also to heat the coolant before chemical purification. To create a laboratory stand, it is necessary to study the operating principles of the installation, divide the device into units: the main stand and the vacuum distiller, then model a three-dimensional image of each part of the complex in the SolidWorks software package. Based on the obtained models, a functional diagram of the complex is developed to obtain a coolant of the given parameters, and an algorithm is compiled for predicting the temperature of the heated water in the heat pump. The obtained installation test results are processed, and compared with theoretical data from tables of refrigerant properties, and a conclusion is drawn. The technology for producing purified water is aimed at replacing imported technologies and using renewable energy sources. The development of technologies for producing clean water is a priority for the development of the Russian energy sector. The results obtained indicate the potential of the laboratory installation for use in various areas where a reliable and environmentally friendly supply of distilled water is required, for example, in coastal areas for industrial facilities or agricultural enterprises.

The Impact of Nuclear Energy Consumption, Green Technological Innovation, and Trade Openness on the Sustainable Environment in the USA

Nuclear energy, renewable energy, and alternative energy sources are all crucial for sustainable green energy. However, the existing literature often needs to pay more attention to the role of nuclear energy in achieving sustainable development goals. This study analyzes the impact of green technological innovation, nuclear energy consumption, and trade openness on environmental quality in the US. The authors used the ARDL bounds to identify cointegration relationships, which is appropriate for this study’s dataset as it works well with smaller samples. They also used the Toda–Yamamoto causality test to examine causal links. The ARDL cointegration results indicate a significant long-term relationship between CO2 emissions, green technological innovation, nuclear energy consumption, and trade openness. Green technological innovation has a negative impact on CO2 emissions. Higher nuclear energy consumption is associated with lower CO2 emissions, while greater trade openness is associated with higher CO2 emissions, although these effects are less certain. The results suggest promoting green technological innovation and nuclear energy can be effective strategies for reducing CO2 emissions, while the impact of trade openness requires careful consideration due to its potential to increase emissions.

Advancement of Bioenergy Technology in South Africa

South Africa has been experiencing an energy crisis since 2007 and continues to the present. This has resulted in load-shedding (action to interrupt electricity supply to avoid excessive load on the generating plant). One way to address this problem is to further explore the potential and contribution of bioenergy through research conducted and implementing energy reports. Therefore, the study aims to provide the state of bioenergy and its contribution to the country’s economic sector and to enhance the replacement of fossil fuels with bioenergy resources and technology. A total blackout of 15,913 h has been experienced since 2014, according to the weekly system status report released by ESKOM. The power utility (Eskom) responsible for power generation and utility has attributed this problem to insufficient generation and capacity. Based on this, the country is embarking on solving this problem. Although the country is dominated by coal (fossil fuel), constituting 73.8% of the total energy supply, this poses a serious environmental risk and health hazard. Renewable energy is considered an alternative energy source, and its introduction and implementation look promising in reducing and solving the current energy crisis. With abundant renewable energy potential, representing 8.7% of the total energy supply, around 85% is bioenergy. This review’s findings revealed that bioenergy contributed mainly towards heat, and fuels admit other energy sources, which is recommended. Therefore, its deployment on a large scale is promising and possible. This study will guide and further encourage the deployment of bioenergy projects in South Africa.

Abstract Tu133: Cardiac Adaptations and Mitochondrial Protection Through Long Noncoding RNAs Regulation in Mice on a Ketogenic Diet

Background: Heart failure, characterized by a metabolic imbalance, leads to impaired mitochondrial ATP production. Ketone bodies not only serve as an alternate energy source but also mitigate heart failure by reducing cardiac remodeling and inflammation. The role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cardiac remodeling and mitochondrial metabolism is increasingly appreciated, and this study examines the effect of ketogenic diet on cardiac lncRNA regulation and mitochondrial protection. Methods and Results: In a six-month study, 10-week-old male and female C57BL/6J mice were assigned to either a control diet (10% fat, 20% protein, 70% carbohydrate) or a ketogenic diet (Keto; 80% fat, 15% protein, 5% carbohydrate). Data were analyzed using unpaired two-tailed t-tests (GraphPad Prism) and reported as mean ± SE. The keto diet significantly increased blood ketone bodies (n=36/group), indicating ketosis, and led to weight gain as well as a significant decrease in heart mass relative to body weight, suggesting cardiac metabolic adaptation (Fig 1A-B) . The cardiac expression analysis of lncRNAs Anril, Caren, Carmn, Gm15441, Malat1, Miat, and Oip5-as1 via qPCR (n=13/group) revealed significant upregulation of Anril and Malat1 in the Keto hearts ( Fig 1C-D ), indicating their potential regulatory roles under ketogenic conditions. Sex-specific differences were not observed in the lncRNA expressions. Key proteins involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, protection, and metabolic adaptation, including Nrf2 and PGC1α, were significantly increased at both mRNA and protein levels (n=6-10) in the hearts of mice on keto diet ( Fig 1E-H ). Conclusion: A six-month ketogenic diet in mice promotes cardiometabolic adaptations characterized by a reduction in relative heart mass and activation of key proteins involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and protection possibly through lncRNAs Anril and Malat1. These findings shed light on novel molecular targets and the potential of ketogenic diet/ketone bodies in treating heart failure.

Production and characterization of coconut shell charcoal-based bio-briquettes as an alternative energy source for rural communities

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions has driven interest in the utilization of agricultural residues, such as coconut shells, for bio-briquette production. This study investigates the impact of binder types (cassava and corn) and concentrations (5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%) on the properties of bio-briquettes made from dried coconut shells with two particle sizes (40 mesh and 60 mesh). The experimental evaluation focuses on several performance indicators, including density, shatter index, percentage moisture content (PMC), percentage volatile matter (PVM), percentage ash content (PAC), percentage fixed carbon (PFC), higher heating value (HHV), ignition time, burning time, and boiling time. The results indicate that briquettes with 10 % fine charcoal cassava binder achieved the highest density of 0.764 g/cm³ due to improved compaction. Briquettes with 15 % coarse charcoal corn binder demonstrated the highest shatter resistance at 96.99 %, reflecting their superior structural integrity. The highest PMC and PVM values were observed in briquettes with 15 % coarse charcoal cassava binder, at 8.13 % and 31.25 %, respectively. Conversely, the highest PAC was 16.34 % for 5 % coarse charcoal cassava binder. Briquettes with 10 % fine charcoal corn binder exhibited the highest PFC of 70.79 % and HHV of 31.51 MJ/kg. Boiling times ranged from 15 min 53 s to 36 min 35 s, with the shortest boiling time for briquettes with 10 % fine charcoal corn binder. The findings highlight the superior mechanical properties and energy performance of bio-briquettes with specific binder concentrations and particle sizes. This study demonstrates the potential of coconut shell bio-briquettes as a viable and sustainable energy source, offering economic and environmental benefits through the effective utilization of agricultural waste and reduction of carbon emissions.

A mathematical model of an off-grid hybrid energy system utilizing the reversible solid oxide fuel cell

Abstract The current energy transition focuses on decentralizing energy systems by implementing alternative energy sources. Integrating distributed energy sources into functional hybrid energy systems has proven to be a difficult task. To solve this problem, it is important to conduct an in-depth analysis of the energy system through the preparation of a mathematical model. The study aims to model and simulate the operation of an off-grid self-sustainable energy storage system for single-family household use by utilizing solid oxide technology. The proposed system consists of photovoltaic modules and an energy storage system including batteries, reversible solid oxide fuel cells, and hydrogen storage tanks. To integrate these energy resources into one system, an energy management system, in which the solid oxide stack is used as a backup generator or a hydrogen production device, is implemented. Finally, a numerical simulation of the system’s operation is run to estimate the system’s performance over a one-year time period. The prepared model can find many practical applications, such as optimizing system costs, environmental impact, or the energy management system.

Forest Clearance and Fragmentation for Charcoal Production: The Case of Bimbia Bonadikombo Forest, South West Region, Cameroon

The exploitation activities of man on natural resources have hardly been sustainable. This study examined the implication of charcoal production on the Bimbia Bonadikombo forest and it’s environ. The study employed both direct field observation and questionnaire administration for data gathering. Questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and persons involved in charcoal related activities. Persons were selected using snowball technique. A total of 42 copies of questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and related activities. Tree species used for charcoal production were noted and identified. The questionnaire was divided into five sections:(i), socio-demographic characteristics of charcoal producers, (ii), methods of charcoal production and species selected (iii), aspects influencing charcoal production and the implication on the ecosystem, (iv), seasonal trends and challenges faced (v) mitigation strategies used). Data collected were organized in Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the analyses. Pearson (ρ) correlation association was used for the relationship between variables of production and the demand of charcoal. The result revealed that, majority of the respondents, 78.57%, were males while females were least 21.43%. Majority of the respondents (54.76%) were between the ages of 31-46 while the least with ages > 47. Lophira alata 14 (35.71%) was the tree species ranked 1st while Irvingia gabonensis1 (2.38%) was the least and ranked 8th. The main aspect that influenced production was revenue generated 14 (33.33%) while weak institutions 2(4.76%) and crises situations 2(2(4.76%) were the least. Deforestation 12(28.57%) and habitats destruction 8(10.04%) were reported as the main effects caused by charcoal production. Production and the demand of charcoal variables showed a positive association (0.153±.361). The management strategies employed were: only matured trees were used for charcoal production, permanent charcoal pit kiln are dug out of forest canopy and only few tree species are used for charcoal production. For mitigation purposes used are: domestication, protecting wild charcoal trees in their farms and nurseries establishment. This study recommends that charcoal is a major source of energy and alternative source of energy when others failed or insufficient. Therefore, this source of energy can be enhanced to be more eco friendly and environmentally sustainable.

Exploiting Lubricant Formulation to Reduce Particle Emissions from Gas Powered Engines

The present paper illustrates the results of an experimental study aimed at evaluating the effect of lubricant oil features on the emissive behaviour of a heavy duty spark ignition engine fuelled with methane. The activity was performed within a research project between CNR-STEMS and TotalEnergies in which oils with different formulations were characterized, focusing on their potentiality in particle emission reduction. Considering the ultralow particle emission level in the exhaust of gas engines, a specific testing procedure was designed to guarantee highly reliable and accurate results. In particular, the engine was operated under transient conditions, along the World Harmonized Transient Cycle in cold- and hot-start conditions. The results of the test campaign clearly highlight that the lubricant formulation is a key technology for the control of particles, revealing this as an important aspect in view of the upcoming severe regulation limits on particle emissions. The experimental findings show the capability of reformulated oils to drop down the total particle number to 60–70% with respect to a baseline standard oil. The interest in the present study also lies in providing information extendable to more sustainable fuels, like hydrogen or biomethane, nowadays of great interest as alternative energy sources.