Sustainable Applications Research Articles

Wood-based phase change energy storage composite material with reversible thermochromic properties

With the continuous increase in global energy demand and environmental challenges, the efficient utilization and storage of energy have become critical areas of scientific research. This study presents the preparation and performance assessment of a wood-based phase change composite (TPW) with reversible thermochromic properties. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) confirmed thermal stability across 26 °C to 270 °C, while differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated that TPW has good thermal cycling performance, and suitable phase change temperature at about 34 °C. Thermal insulation tests showed that TPW can reduce heat exchange between inside and outside environment, maintaining the internal temperature for longer time. Below the transition temperature, the material displays a bluish-purple color, transitioning to light yellow upon heating, with a notable color difference (ΔE⁎) increase from 3.46 to 67.89. Since the phase transition temperature close to human body temperature, enhances TPW’s compatibility for applications in home decor, temperature indicators, and anti-counterfeit labeling. This research contributes novel insights and foundational data for advancing wood-based functional materials in sustainable applications.

Lead-Free Halide Double Perovskites for Sustainable Environmental Applications

The development of renewable energy sources has become a crucial objective in today's world due to increasing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels. Solar energy has emerged as a promising alternative. In recent years, there has been a significant focus on perovskite solar cells due to their remarkable power conversion efficiencies and their ability to be produced in a cost-effective manner. These cells have attracted considerable attention from researchers and industry professionals alike. However, traditional perovskite materials often contain toxic lead, raising concerns about their environmental impact and long-term sustainability. This article highlights the environmental concerns associated with lead-based perovskite materials and explores the advantages, challenges, and potential of lead-free halide double perovskites as sustainable alternatives for achieving an enlightening and sustainable future in the field of photovoltaics. Lead-free halide perovskites have been an area of active research in the field of nanotechnology and material science due to their potential for various applications. We provide an overview of perovskite solar cells as a promising technology, discussing their material properties and device performance. Furthermore, we present a comparative analysis between lead-based and lead-free perovskites, emphasizing the challenges and future perspectives associated with the development and implementation of lead-free alternatives. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the potential of lead-free halide double perovskites and inspire further research in the quest for environmentally friendly materials for solar energy applications.

Biobased ionic liquid solutions for an efficient post-combustion CO2 capture system

This study explores the use of ionic liquids (ILs) as a novel and efficient alternative to conventional monoethanolamine (MEA) for CO2 capture. While MEA scrubbing is well-known for carbon sequestration, it faces limitations such as high energy consumption, toxicity, and rapid degradation. In contrast, ILs offer advantages such as non-volatility, stability, and reduced corrosiveness. We focus on a biodegradable IL comprising choline ([Cho]) and proline ([Pro]) amino acids to create an eco-friendly solution. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is introduced as a diluent to mitigate viscosity issues during CO2 uptake. Our research measures the thermo-physical properties, including density and viscosity of [Cho][Pro] in DMSO at different concentrations. The addition of DMSO resulted in a viscosity reduction of >97 % at a temperature of 303 K for the three virgin solutions compared to the pure IL. In addition, the CO2 capture performance was evaluated using a system of absorption and desorption reactors. The results show that the 25 % wt [Cho][Pro] solution excels, achieving over 90 % CO2 absorption, 0.66 molCO2/molIL in the first cycle, and demonstrating high reusability and regeneration efficiency over multiple cycles. Comparisons indicate that the IL solution outperforms traditional aqueous MEA solutions. Longer term testing confirms the solution's stability and minimal degradation, achieving a regeneration efficiency of >55 % over 30 cycles, suggesting the potential of [Cho][Pro] for sustainable long-term CO2 capture applications.

Revolutionizing Nitrogen Electrocatalysis: Atomically Dispersed Ruthenium Catalyzed by Manganese for Unmatched Performance

Seeking sustainable ammonia, the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) via electrocatalysis is crucial but challenged by catalyst efficiency and stability needs. This study presents RuMn-NC@NF, a novel bimetallic ruthenium-manganese catalyst synthesized via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), featuring atomically dispersed active sites on porous carbon. The strategic incorporation of manganese into the ruthenium lattice modulates the electronic structure, optimizing nitrogen adsorption and accelerating reaction kinetics. Our results demonstrate that RuMn-NC@NF achieves a remarkable Faradaic efficiency of 33.37% and an ammonia yield rate of 187.06μgh-1 mgcat.-1. XRD, SEM, HAADF-STEM, and XPS characterizations affirm the atomic distribution and elemental makeup of the catalyst. Meanwhile, DEMS and DFT calculations reveal the intrinsic mechanisms driving the reaction. The RuMn-NC@NF catalyst exhibits excellent stability over multiple cycles, underscoring its potential for practical and sustainable ammonia production. This research advances electrocatalysis with an innovative NRR catalyst for sustainable applications.

Innovative fabrication of eco-friendly bio-based foam from sugarcane bagasse and sodium alginate with enhanced properties and sustainable applications for plastic replacement

Foam materials possess notable features, including low density, high porosity, low thermal conductivity, and high impact resistance, making them extensively used in various sectors such as construction, transportation, water treatment, and packaging. However, the majority of commercial foam materials are derived from synthetic polymers based on fossil fuels, which raises concerns regarding health and ecology. In this work, we present a straightforward and scalable approach (physical cross-linking and common pressure drying) for fabricating a bio-based foam material using pulp fibers sourced from discarded sugarcane bagasse and sodium alginate extracted from seaweed. The resulting foam material exhibits low density (13.7–20.5 kg/m3), exceptional thermal insulation properties (thermal conductivity as low as 38.6 mW/mK), thermal stability (no deformation at 140 °C), and mechanical strength. After a basic silane modification, it also shows favorable water resistance (with a contact angle of 128°). Moreover, the foam material demonstrates remarkable degradation performance, with a degradation rate exceeding 93.8 % after 90 days of burial in soil. Therefore, this novel method offers a sustainable solution for eco-friendly foam production across various application domains.

Revolutionizing smart textiles: a comprehensive review of conductive ink printing for sustainable and adaptive wearable applications

Purpose The demand of species monitoring for the benefit of various sectors such as industrial, medicinal and ecological has surged rapidly in the recent past. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to articulate the major developments in synthesizing conductive inks for the structurization of miniaturized as well as disposable or reusable electrochemical equipments. Design/methodology/approach This section is not applicable to a review paper. Findings Numerous times the need for the use point becomes significant for achieving accurate as well as swift quantification. As an alternate, the wearable and effectual reuseable electrochemical sensors are being practiced. The technique of fabricating devices using conductive inks encompasses novelty, as it provides flexibility in designing the electrodes. The increase in the popularity of inks development is governed by its features of simplicity, reduced cost and waste generation, high production and eco-friendly engineering procedures. Further, the electrochemistry aspects of conductive inks highlighting the importance of their compounds and binders has also been discussed emphasizing on the conductive materials. Originality/value This paper is an original review work. This paper will be helpful for manufacturers/researchers from smart wearable textile sector in envisaging innovative developing techniques of sensors as well as biosensors through conductive inks.

Sustainable application of recycled plastics in asphalt pavement: Case study of a trial in Newtonville, Ontario, Canada

Global research on using plastic waste in asphalt roads highlights its benefits: recycling waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and providing an alternative to non-renewable asphalt binders. This study aims to bridge the gap between laboratory results and field performance of recycled plastic-modified asphalt in cold regions, promoting broader adoption. Laboratory analysis of core samples was performed as part of a quality assurance program. High-temperature rutting resistance was evaluated using the Hamburg wheel tracking test, while low-temperature cracking resistance was assessed through semi-circular bending testing. Results show that the impact of recycled plastics and fibers on rutting resistance varies with temperature, with the greatest benefit at the highest temperatures. For low-temperature cracking resistance, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers outperform mixed plastics by delaying crack propagation. Low-temperature conditioning can induce thermal shrinkage in the asphalt mixture, slightly moderating the effects of recycled plastics and fibers.

Tourism Management Training in the Digital Era to Increase Tourist Visits to Lake Rayo

The management of the Rayo Lake tourist attraction managed by POKDARWIS has so far been considered less than good due to the lack of knowledge of POKDARWIS administrators in tourism management. In addition, it is caused by the absence of an effective marketing strategy with the utilization of existing information technology, resulting in the Rayo Lake tourist attraction being less well-known by the public. The purpose of implementing this PKM activity is to increase POKDARWIS's knowledge in terms of management and marketing. Community service activities are based on the Participative Action Research (PAR) approach with the methods of socialization, training, application of Technology, Mentoring, Evaluation and Sustainability of the Program. The results obtained are that the participants feel satisfied and gain a good understanding of how to manage digital-based tourism management and the utilization of digital technology in promoting tourism at the Rayo Lake tourist destination in Sungai Jernih Village.

Advances in Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: Sustainable Approaches and Applications

In the rapidly evolving field of nanotechnology, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has shifted towards eco-friendly methodologies, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable practices. Biologically synthesized AgNPs, particularly noteworthy for their applications in medicine and materials science, exhibit exceptional efficacy against microorganisms. The unique physicochemical properties of AgNPs, including their small size and large surface area-to-volume ratio, contribute to their versatility in diverse sectors. The advantages of AgNPs, such as ease of production, low cost, and high carrier capacity, make them preferred for various applications, including drug delivery systems. Despite concerns about environmental hazards and toxicity, the benefits of AgNPs, such as controlled drug release and targeted delivery, position them as valuable contributors to advancements in nanotechnology. Green synthesis methods, emphasizing biological processes and natural compounds, gain prominence for their sustainability and reduced environmental impact. The regulatory oversight of nanoproducts ensures their safe use, balancing their advantages with environmental considerations. Ongoing research promises further innovations, solidifying AgNPs' role as key contributors to progress in nanotechnology and materials science. Keywords: Silver nanoparticles, Green synthesis, Sustainable approaches, Characterization, Applications, Eco-friendly methods.

Investigating the sustainable application of unprocessed sugarcane bagasse ash and alccofine in cementitious mortar from a physical, mechanical, and microstructural perspective

Investigating the sustainable application of unprocessed sugarcane bagasse ash and alccofine in cementitious mortar from a physical, mechanical, and microstructural perspective

Genetic-Based Neural Network for Enhanced Soil Texture Analysis: Integrating Soil Sensor Data for Optimized Agricultural Management

Soil texture analysis is vital in agricultural management due to its influence on crop growth and yield. Defined by the proportions of clay, sand, and silt particles, soil texture affects properties like aeration, water-holding capacity, and nutrient retention, all crucial for plant development. The OBJECTIVES: This study aims to design a Genetic-Based Neural Network (GBNN) for accurate soil texture analysis, particularly for soils with similar structures but different compositions. It also aims to collect environmental impact data through soil sensors to enhance the understanding of soil texture.METHODS: The methodology involves developing a GBNN, leveraging genetic algorithms to group homogeneous particles, thus improving texture classification. This approach addresses the shortcomings of previous deep learning models. Additionally, soil sensor data will be collected to study environmental factors affecting soil texture.RESULTS: The GBNN showed improved accuracy in texture classification compared to previous models. Genetic algorithms effectively grouped similar particles, and soil sensor data provided insights into environmental impacts on soil texture.CONCLUSION: The GBNN for soil texture analysis overcame previous models' challenges, improving classification accuracy. The integration of soil sensor data provided valuable environmental insights, aiding farmers in optimizing crop selection, fertilizer application, and soil management for better yields and sustainability.

TiO2 Surface Hybridisation with Ag and CuO for Solar‐Assisted Environmental Remediation and Sustainable Energy Applications

AbstractIndustrialisation has led to unprecedented levels of outdoor air pollution, posing a significant health risk to human beings. Consequently, there is an urgent need to replace fossil fuels with sustainable energy sources, thereby mitigating these risks and providing a safer outdoor and indoor environment. Titanium dioxide is a versatile transition metal oxide with applications ranging from energy conversion to environmental remediation. However, it faces limitations, particularly in its absorption spectrum and charge separation efficiency, and enhancing these properties remains a significant challenge. In this research work, we have decorated the surface of TiO2 hybridising it with noble‐metal and/or noble‐metal oxides (Ag and/or CuO) to improve the photocatalytic performances (monitoring the removal of nitrogen oxides and benzene, and hydrogen generation from water splitting) under simulated solar‐light irradiation. Our results showed that titania modified with an Ag : Cu molar ratio equal to 1 : 1, not only exhibited the most promising performance in terms of nitrogen oxides and benzene removal, it was the optimum amount for the light‐induced generation of hydrogen from water splitting.

ANN-optimized NR-SHE method for single-sourced, multi-configurable switched capacitor-based multilevel inverter for sustainable power applications

ANN-optimized NR-SHE method for single-sourced, multi-configurable switched capacitor-based multilevel inverter for sustainable power applications

Enhancing Manganese Peroxidase: Innovations in Genetic Modification, Screening Processes, and Sustainable Agricultural Applications.

Manganese peroxidase (MnP), a vital extracellular enzyme for the degradation of lignin and other organic pollutants, has demonstrated immense potential for agricultural and environmental applications, including straw pretreatment, feed fermentation, mycotoxin degradation, and water treatment. However, current research remains in its exploratory phase, with naturally sourced MnP unable to meet industrial-scale demands and no mature commercial enzyme preparations available on the market. This comprehensive review innovatively constructs a framework for MnP research, probing into its molecular conformation and catalytic principles, while providing an overview of the advancements in high-throughput screening and In silco designing strategies. Specifically, this review focuses on the practical applications of MnP in sustainable agriculture, elaborating on its potential and challenges in straw resource utilization, efficient feed fermentation, mycotoxin control, and water quality improvement. Furthermore, this review summarizes the recent achievements in optimizing MnP activity through enzyme engineering techniques and discuss customized mutation strategies tailored to specific agricultural and environmental requirements, thereby laying a solid theoretical foundation and scientific basis for the industrial production and commercialization of MnP.

Retraction Note: Smart explainable artificial intelligence for sustainable secure healthcare application based on quantum optical neural network

Retraction Note: Smart explainable artificial intelligence for sustainable secure healthcare application based on quantum optical neural network

Report on laser-induced fluorescence transitions relevant for the microelectronics industry and sustainability applications

A wide variety of feed gases are used to generate low-temperature plasmas for the microelectronics and sustainability applications. These plasmas often have a complex combination of reactive and nonreactive species which may have spatial and temporal variations in density, temperature, and energy. Accurate knowledge of these parameters and their variations is critically important for understanding and advancing these applications through validated and predictive modeling and the design of relevant devices. Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) provides both spatial and temporally resolved information about the plasma-produced radicals, ions, and metastables. However, the use of this powerful diagnostic tool requires the knowledge of optical transitions including excitation and fluorescence wavelengths which may not be available or scattered through a huge literature domain. In this paper, we collected, analyzed, and compiled the available transitions for laser-induced fluorescence for more than 160 chemical species relevant to the microelectronics industry and the sustainability applications. A list of species with overlapping LIF excitations and fluorescence wavelengths have been identified. This summary is intended to serve as a data reference for LIF transitions and should be updated in the future.

Exploring the thermal conductivity of green filamentous algae natural fibre: an experimental investigation

Abstract The use of non-renewable resources in thermal insulation has significant environmental impacts. Another major problem faced by the ecosystem is the invasive growth of water weeds. Making sustainable products from waterweeds helps to prevent its overgrowth that disrupts the balance of the ecosystem. This study explores the viability of Green Filamentous Algae (GFA) as an eco-friendly thermal insulation material. GFA was collected from water bodies, cleaned, and processed into two forms: untreated (UTD) and alkali-treated (TD). Experimental investigations were conducted to evaluate the physical properties of GFA, including density, self-ignition temperature, water absorption, moisture absorption, flammability, and thermal conductivity. Results show that the untreated GFA had a density of 402.52 kg m−3, while the treated GFA exhibited a slightly lower density of 392.32 kg m−3. The self-ignition temperature for both untreated and treated GFA was measured between 275 °C and 280 °C. The water absorption capacity was higher in treated GFA (654.7%) compared to untreated (493.83%). Moisture absorption capacity was 15.14% for untreated GFA and 17.47% for treated GFA. Flammability tests revealed a burning rate of 20.026 mm min−1, placing GFA in the combustibility classification 1 (CC1). Thermal conductivity values were found to be 0.308 W m−1K−1 (UTD) and 0.273 W m−1K−1 (TD), making treated GFA a promising candidate for sustainable insulation applications. This study demonstrates the potential of GFA as a bio-based insulation material and highlights future improvements to enhance its moisture resistance and thermal performance.

Li2MoO4 Tailored Anion‐enhanced Solvation Sheath Layer Promotes Solution‐phase Mediated Li‐O2 Batteries

AbstractThe high overpotential of Li‐O2 batteries (LOBs) is primarily triggered by sluggish charge transfer kinetics at the reaction interfaces. A typical LiBr redox mediator (RM) catalyst can effectively reduce the battery's overpotential. However, it is prone to shuttling and corroding the Li anode, leading to RM loss and reduced energy efficiency. To address these challenges, we introduced Li2MoO4 into the LiBr‐containing electrolyte to promote the solution‐phase mediated LOBs. This addition tailors the anion‐enhanced Li+ solvation sheath layer and forms a robust anion‐derived solid electrolyte interphases (SEI) on the Li anode. The robust SEI effectively mitigates the corrosion of soluble Br3−/Br2 and attacks by highly reactive oxygen species. Additionally, the dispersed and high‐density Li2MoO4 exhibits strong adsorption capabilities for O2/LiO2 and Br‐related species during the discharge/charge process, thereby promoting the growth and decomposition of Li2O2 in the solution phase and inhibiting the shuttle effect of Br‐related species in LOBs. Consequently, the LOBs demonstrate exceptional cycling stability (415 cycles) and high energy efficiency (86.2 %), paving the way for the sustainable development and practical application of these battery systems.

Li2MoO4 Tailored Anion-enhanced Solvation Sheath Layer Promotes Solution-phase Mediated Li-O2 Batteries.

The high overpotential of Li-O2 batteries (LOBs) is primarily triggered by sluggish charge transfer kinetics at the reaction interfaces. A typical LiBr redox mediator (RM) catalyst can effectively reduce the battery's overpotential. However, it is prone to shuttling and corroding the Li anode, leading to RM loss and reduced energy efficiency. To address these challenges, we introduced Li2MoO4 into the LiBr-containing electrolyte to promote the solution-phase mediated LOBs. This addition tailors the anion-enhanced Li+ solvation sheath layer and forms a robust anion-derived solid electrolyte interphases (SEI) on the Li anode. The robust SEI effectively mitigates the corrosion of soluble Br3 -/Br2 and attacks by highly reactive oxygen species. Additionally, the dispersed and high-density Li2MoO4 exhibits strong adsorption capabilities for O2/LiO2 and Br-related species during the discharge/charge process, thereby promoting the growth and decomposition of Li2O2 in the solution phase and inhibiting the shuttle effect of Br-related species in LOBs. Consequently, the LOBs demonstrate exceptional cycling stability (415 cycles) and high energy efficiency (86.2 %), paving the way for the sustainable development and practical application of these battery systems.

Evaluating Biodiesel Properties from Waste Cooking Oil for Sustainable Energy Applications

Biodiesel was synthesized from used vegetable oils collected from local restaurants in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria, using a base-catalyzed transesterification process with methanol and potassium methoxide as the catalyst. The physicochemical properties of the produced biodiesel, such as density, kinematic viscosity, flash point, pour point, cetane number, and calorific value, were evaluated and compared against conventional diesel fuels and biodiesel from other sources like Jatropha, Neem, and Castor oils. Gas chromatography (GC) was used to analyze the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) composition, identifying methyl oleate, methyl linoleate, methyl palmitate, and methyl stearate as the primary components. The produced biodiesel exhibited favourable properties, including a cetane number and flash point within recommended ASTM standards, indicating efficient ignition and safe storage characteristics. Additionally, the calorific value and kinematic viscosity of the biodiesel were found to be comparable to conventional diesel, making it a viable blend for diesel engine applications.