Sustainable Manufacturing Practices Research Articles

Mechanical investigation for enhancing jute fibre vinyl ester composite performance through garnet waste utilization

This study explores the potential utilization of garnet waste, a byproduct of the Abrasive Water Jet Machining process, as a promising filler material in composite manufacturing. The disposal of garnet waste presents significant environmental and economic challenges, underscoring the need for sustainable waste management strategies. To tackle these challenges, this research investigates the incorporation of garnet waste into composites to create value-added materials. Consequently, the study focused on developing garnet-filled jute fibre-reinforced vinyl ester composites using the hand layup method. Various mechanical properties including flexural strength, tensile strength, hardness, and impact strength were assessed. The findings demonstrate that the inclusion of garnet filler enhances the mechanical strength of the composites. Particularly, composites containing 10 wt% garnet exhibit notable improvements in tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness strengths, with increases of 40%, 124%, 26%, and 15%, respectively. This research has the potential to advance the development of advanced materials across diverse industries, marking a significant stride towards sustainable and value-driven composite manufacturing practices.

The pathways to lean manufacturing for circular economy: Implications for sustainable development goals

Purpose This study aims to address the critical challenge of implementing lean manufacturing (LM) in emerging economies, where sustainability complexities on the production floor hinder production efficiency and the transition towards a circular economy (CE). Addressing a gap in existing research, the paper introduces a path analysis model to systematically identify, prioritize and overcome LM implementation barriers, aiming to enhance performance through strategic removal. Design/methodology/approach The authors used a mixed-method approach, combining empirical survey data with literature reviews to pinpoint key LM barriers. Using the grey-based Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) along with the Network Knowledge (NK) method, they mapped causal relationships and barrier intensities. This formed the basis for developing a path simulation algorithm, integrating heuristic considerations for practical decision-making. Findings This analysis reveals that the primary barriers to LM adoption is the negative perception and inadequate understanding of lean tools and CE principles. The study provides a strategic framework for managers, offering new insights into barrier prioritization and overcoming strategies to facilitate successful LM adoption. Research limitations/implications This research provides a strategic pathway for overcoming LM implementation barriers, empowering managers in emerging economies to enhance sustainability and competitive advantage through LM and CE integration. It emphasizes the significance of structured barrier management in the manufacturing sector. Originality/value This research pioneers a systematic exploration of LM implementation barriers in the CE context, making a significant contribution to the literature. It identifies, evaluates barriers and proposes a practical model for overcoming them, enriching sustainable manufacturing practices in emerging markets.

Enhancing thermal conductivity of sinterized bronze (Cu89/Sn11) by 3D printing and thermal post-treatment: Energy efficiency and environmental sustainability

Enhancing the thermal conductivity of bronze is essential to enhance the efficiency of heat transfer and reduce energy consumption in systems such as heating, cooling, and heat exchangers systems. This study investigates the feasibility of producing sinterized bronze (Cu89/Sn11) using low-cost 3D printing Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology and thermal post-treatment processes. The intention is to identify optimal printing parameters and sintering temperatures to maximize thermal conductivity, while focusing on minimizing energy consumption, raw material usage, and environmental impact. The thermal conductivity of twenty-seven samples was evaluated according to the ASTM E1530:2019 standard. A statistical analysis revealed significant effects of nozzle diameter and flow rate on thermal conductivity and density. The optimal results were obtained with a sintering temperature of 845 °C, a 1.0 mm nozzle diameter, and a 110 % flow rate. These conditions yield the highest thermal conductivity (87.61 W/m·K) and density (7.52 g/cm3). The lowest values were observed at a sintering temperature of 865 °C, a 0.6 mm nozzle diameter, and a 100 % flow rate. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using the ReCiPe Endpoint (E) methodology was employed to compare the environmental impact of the resulting thermal conductivities. The results suggest that sintered bronze produced by FDM and thermal post-treatment provide superior performance and a smaller environmental impact than conventional methods. This study underscores the potential for more efficient and sustainable manufacturing practices in the production of sintered bronze.

A simulation‐guided tri‐spiral condenser design for enhancing lemongrass essential oil recovery

AbstractWe present a groundbreaking achievement in essential oil extraction, showcasing the development of a highly efficient tri‐spiral condenser for use in microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) setups. This innovative condenser is specifically designed to swiftly cool vapors, optimizing oil yield during the MAE process. Our investigations demonstrate a notable improvement in oil purity, attributed to the expedited condensation facilitated by the tri‐spiral design. Traditional heat exchangers, like the Liebig condenser, fall short in efficiently handling the high vapor production rates of MAE. In response to this challenge, our tri‐spiral condenser design enhances condensation speed, resulting in a remarkable 12.2% increase in oil yield compared with the Liebig condenser (2.1% with tri‐spiral vs. 1.87% with Liebig), as validated by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry. Beyond elevating oil purity, our design holds promise for diverse applications requiring rapid cooling. This work not only advances laboratory practices but also contributes to the broader societal need for efficient and sustainable methods in the essential oil extraction industry.Practical applicationsThe innovative tri‐spiral condenser design, as elucidated in this article, presents significant practical applications, especially in the realm of lemongrass essential oil recovery. This breakthrough technology holds promise for the fragrance and cosmetics industries, where lemongrass essential oil is a valuable ingredient. The novel condenser design enhances extraction efficiency, leading to a higher concentration of essential oil with improved aromatic compounds. Cosmetic manufacturers can benefit from a more potent and fragrant lemongrass oil for skincare and aromatherapy products. Additionally, the pharmaceutical sector could leverage this advancement for developing therapeutic products harnessing the medicinal properties of lemongrass. By optimizing essential oil recovery, the tri‐spiral condenser design not only caters to the needs of the fragrance, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, but also aligns with a broader trend towards sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices, ensuring the accessibility of high‐quality lemongrass essential oil for diverse applications.

Effect of Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes during Semi-Solid to Solid Phase Transformation in Eutectic Al-Si alloy

The study explores numerically the combined effect of the base metal pouring temperature and MWCNT (multi wall carbon nanotubes) during semi-solid to solid solidification of Al-Si-MWCNT composite material. The semi-solid to solid solidification actually differs significantly both qualitatively and quantitatively from the liquid to solid solidification. During solidification of Al-Si-MWCNT composite material, the melt temperature and the cooling rate play crucial roles in the phase transformations. During liquid to solid solidification, the MWCNT significantly affects the cooling rate, leading to multiple recalescence phenomena, and influences the formation and evolution of the columnar and globular grains. Under the same condition, the MWCNT also impacts the silicon segregation, causing fluctuations in the silicon phases and its redistribution. However, during the semi-solid to solid solidification, it is observed that by decreasing the melt temperature into a semi-solid state, the segregation rate of silicon decreases which enhances more homogeneous CNT distribution. It also increases the globular volume fraction and dominates the columnar growth. Overall, the future trend of semi-solid to solid solidification of Al-Si-MWCNT composite materials lies in optimizing their properties for specific applications, expanding their use across diverse industries, and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.

Towards Sustainable Production: An Adaptive Intelligent Optimization Genetic Algorithm for Solid Wood Panel Manufacturing

Optimizing production processes to conserve resources and reduce waste has become crucial in pursuing sustainable manufacturing practices. The solid wood panel industry, marked by substantial raw materials and energy consumption, stands at the forefront of addressing this challenge. This research delves into production scheduling and equipment utilization inefficiencies, offering innovative solutions for the solid wood panel processing line aimed at achieving environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. The study is articulated through two main segments: (1) an exhaustive analysis and the development of a simulation system for the solid wood panel processing line, delineating all production elements and operational logic, furnished with a user-friendly simulation interface, and (2) a comprehensive evaluation and enhancement of various scheduling algorithms specific to the Flexible Job-Shop Scheduling Problem (FJSP) encountered in solid wood panel workshops. A significant leap forward is made with the introduction of the Adaptive Intelligent Optimization Genetic Algorithm (AIOGA), an evolved version of the standard Genetic Algorithm (GA) engineered for optimal scheduling within the solid wood panel processing line. AIOGA incorporates advanced features such as encoding strategy, population initialization, objective function setting, selection strategy, crossover operation, and mutation operation, demonstrating the methodological depth of the study. We applied AIOGA in a designed FJSP, and AIOGA substantially reduced the maximum completion time to 90 min. It evidenced an improvement of 39.60% over the conventional GA, enhancing the equilibrium of the equipment workload across the system. This research presents a multifaceted strategy to address the scheduling complications inherent in solid wood panel production and highlights the extensive applicability of adaptive intelligent optimization in diverse industrial settings. This study establishes a new paradigm in manufacturing optimization, underlining the valuable integration of sustainability and efficiency in production methodologies.

Crafting a Sustainable Future: Exploring Research, Overcoming Challenges, and Anticipating Trends in Manufacturing and Design Engineering

Abstract: Sustainable manufacturing is intricately characterized as the conscientious creation of goods and services employing environmentally harmonious techniques and methodologies. These approaches are specifically devised to curtail ecological harm by conserving energy, preserving natural resources, and fortifying the well-being of communities and materials alike. Its paramount significance lies in its capacity to discern issues inherent in the stages of planning, designing, scrutinizing, and augmenting manufacturing processes, with potential innovations protected by patents. This current discourse aspires to expound upon the multifaceted dimensions of sustainable manufacturing, encompassing the delineation of pertinent metrics, a comprehensive examination of the diverse environmental ramifications intrinsic to sustainable manufacturing, and an exploration of the very essence of sustainability within the manufacturing paradigm, including consideration of technologies that contribute to eco-conscious practices. Moreover, this paper delves into the myriad challenges that confront sustainable manufacturing, offering a nuanced analysis, while simultaneously shedding light on the latent opportunities that reside within this realm, potentially protected by patents. In essence, the narrative woven herein endeavors to provide an extensive panorama of the intricate tapestry that is sustainable manufacturing, featuring innovative solutions that will be secured through patent protection. By dissecting its constituent elements and navigating through the challenges and prospects, we aim to foster a profound understanding of the holistic implications and potential transformative pathways within the realm of eco-conscious production methodologies, incorporating the advancements that contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices. In conclusion, the exploration of sustainable manufacturing's various dimensions, challenges, and opportunities not only contributes to a comprehensive understanding of its intricacies but also serves as a foundation for fostering eco-conscious production methods and transformative pathways in manufacturing practices, with the protection and dissemination of patented technologies playing a pivotal role in driving sustainable innovations

Strategic communication & corporate sustainability within global supply chains

Purpose The article aims to explore the transformative journey of AcmeTech Manufacturing, a fictional company influenced by real-life events, from environmental negligence to adopting sustainable and responsible business practices. By examining AcmeTech's strategic communication and sustainability initiatives, the study seeks to highlight the importance of integrating sustainability within global supply chains and the role of strategic communication in building stakeholder trust and achieving corporate sustainability goals. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts a case study methodology, focusing on AcmeTech Manufacturing as a representative example. The case study approach allows for an in-depth exploration of AcmeTech's challenges, strategies and outcomes in its pursuit of corporate sustainability. Drawing from real-life events, the study delves into the company's transformation, its commitment to transparent communication and its efforts to incorporate sustainable practices within its global supply chains. Findings AcmeTech Manufacturing, once criticized for its environmental negligence, has embarked on a comprehensive sustainability journey. Recognizing the erosion of stakeholder trust due to past actions, the company has prioritized transparent and strategic communication of its sustainability efforts. AcmeTech's commitment extends beyond internal changes, emphasizing the importance of its global supply chains in its overall environmental impact. By adopting a Cooperative Advantage approach, rooted in the philosophy of ubuntu, AcmeTech not only addresses its environmental challenges but also strives to become a leader in sustainable manufacturing practices. Originality/value The article offers a unique perspective by combining the concepts of strategic communication and corporate sustainability within the context of global supply chains. Using the fictional case of AcmeTech Manufacturing, influenced by real-world scenarios, the study introduces the Cooperative Advantage approach, rooted in the African philosophy of ubuntu. This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of all stakeholders, promoting a people-centered strategy to sustainability, making the article a novel contribution to the discourse on corporate sustainability.

Empowering sustainable manufacturing: Unleashing digital innovation in spool fabrication industries

In industrial landscapes, spool fabrication industries play a crucial role in the successful completion of numerous industrial projects by providing prefabricated modules. However, the implementation of digitalized sustainable practices in spool fabrication industries is progressing slowly and is still in its embryonic stage due to several challenges. To implement digitalized sustainable manufacturing (SM), digital technologies such as Internet of Things, Cloud computing, Big data analytics, Cyber-physical systems, Augmented reality, Virtual reality, and Machine learning are required in the context of sustainability. The scope of the present study entails prioritization of the enablers that promote the implementation of digitalized sustainable practices in spool fabrication industries using the Improved Fuzzy Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (IMF-SWARA) method integrated with Triangular Fuzzy Bonferroni Mean (TFBM). The enablers are identified through a systematic literature review and are validated by a team of seven experts through a questionnaire survey. Then the finally identified enablers are analyzed by the IMF-SWARA and TFBM integrated approach. The results indicate that the most significant enablers are management support, leadership, governmental policies and regulations to implement digitalized SM. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of digital SM enablers in the spool fabrication industry and offers guidelines for the transformation of conventional systems into digitalized SM practices.

Optimizing additive manufacturing: Minimizing support structures through constraint-based design

Support structures are critical in Additive Manufacturing (AM) but pose challenges due to increased time and material costs for post-processing. This study introduces a novel constraint-based strategy to refine structural parameters while reducing reliance on support structures. By integrating this technique with topology optimization, component angulations are calibrated to align with AM constraints, enabling optimal designs without the need for support. Implementation of this constraint was done using MATLAB, transferring models to Cura software for support identification during printing. To validate the results, stress distribution was scrutinized in the ABAQUS environment, revealing a significant reduction in stress levels due to the proposed methodology, consistent with existing studies on stress reduction phenomena. Moreover, the study demonstrates a substantial decrease in material volume usage, leading to cost savings and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices. This reduction in material usage also enhances structural integrity, minimizing the risk of failure and improving overall performance.

Monitoring solids content development in pilot-scale through air drying of tissue paper

Abstract This study delves into the dynamic evolution of solids content in a pilot-scale through air drying tissue machine, aiming to enhance comprehension and refine optimization strategies for tissue manufacturing. It focuses on development of solids content throughout the process. Analyzing the interaction between process parameters and solids content provides deeper insights into water removal dynamics. The research employs solid contents monitoring techniques in pilot scale, offering a detailed view of solids content evolution from the wet web’s inception to the final tissue product. It significantly highlights the impact of key parameters, particularly pulp refining, on solids content across all positions of the pilot machine. Additionally, the study emphasizes the influence of vacuum system configurations, identifying the relationship between energy expended in the vacuum system and evaporation energy. Furthermore, the results indicate that compression and air displacement dewatering in vacuum boxes are less speed-sensitive compared to heat-driven evaporation in the TAD- and Yankee cylinders. Solid contents at all positions in the tissue machine correlates between various dewatering elements. Optimizing site-specific dewatering and evaporation strategies can potentially save drying energy in the Yankee drying phase which hold promise for enhanced energy and resource utilization, aligning with demands for sustainable manufacturing practices.

Fabrication and Characterisation of Sustainable 3D-Printed Parts Using Post-Consumer PLA Plastic and Virgin PLA Blends

Sustainable manufacturing practices are becoming increasingly necessary due to the growing concerns regarding climate change and resource scarcity. Consequently, material recycling technologies have gradually become preferred over conventional processes. This study aimed to recycle waste polylactic acid (PLA) from household-disposed cups and lids to create 3D-printed parts and promote sustainable manufacturing practices. To achieve this, the current study utilised virgin and post-consumer PLA (PC-PLA) (sourced from household waste) blends. The PC-PLA wastes were shredded and sorted by size with the aid of a washing step, resulting in a filament with a 1.70 ± 0.5 mm diameter without fragmentation or dissolution. A 50:50 wt.% blend of virgin PLA (vPLA) and PC-PLA was selected as the standard recycling percentage based on previous research and resource conservation goals. The study investigated the impact of three 3D printing parameters (layer height (LH), infill density (I), and nozzle temperature (NT)) on the quality of 3D-printed parts using a three-level L9 Taguchi orthogonal array. The findings revealed that blending PC-PLA with vPLA led to significant improvements in tensile, flexural, and impact strengths by 18.40%, 8%, and 9.15%, respectively, compared to those of recycled PLA (rPLA). This conclusion was supported by the investigation of the fracture surface area, which revealed fractographic features associated with printing parameters, such as plastic deformation and interfilament debonding. An ANOVA analysis revealed a positive influence of a greater layer height and high nozzle temperature on mechanical properties. Subsequently, the optimal printing parameters (LH: 0.3 mm, I: 100%, and NT: 215 °C) were determined using the S/N ratio, and a confirmation test using the optimum printing parameters exhibited a strong correlation with the statistically predicted outcomes. Finally, the study used optimum printing parameters to fabricate 100% PC-PLA 3D-printed parts, demonstrating their potential for low-strength applications. The findings suggest that employing vPLA and PC-PLA blended filaments for fabricating 3D-printed components presents an effective means of promoting plastic recycling within a closed-loop recycling system and achieving a circular economy.

A novel mathematical model for predicting a sustainable selective laser melting and controlled densification

ABSTRACT We introduce the innovative concept of Sustainable Laser Energy Consumption (SLEC, ε) that promotes sustainable metal additive manufacturing practices while maintaining productivity and tailored densification in the Selective Laser Melting (SLM) process. This study focuses on deriving analytical expressions through dimensional analysis and Buckingham’s π theorem to predict bulk density with high precision across studied materials: In718, W, AlSi10Mg, Ti6Al4V, and SS316L. This approach provides valuable insights and allows the setting of an appropriate combination of scanning speed and hatch distance for a range of laser power, enabling sustainable manufacturing of SLMed components with tailored density. Furthermore, the mathematical expression introduced as SLEC facilitates the tradeoff between energy consumption and productivity, promoting a greener and more sustainable future of metal additive manufacturing. Furthermore, the underlying fractal nature of SLM is explored through the investigation of the influence of fractal structures, present in the powder bed, on densification that provides information on how powder morphology and homogeneity (i.e. fractal dimension and lacunarity) of the powder bed are linked to a sustainable SLM process.

INTELLIGENT MONITORING SYSTEM FOR REAL-TIME OPTIMIZATION OF ULTRA-PRECISION MANUFACTURING PROCESSES

In the realm of ultra-precision manufacturing, the minutiae of process control and material handling are paramount to achieving the highest levels of product quality and manufacturing efficiency. The industry faces a significant challenge: maintaining and enhancing the precision of manufacturing processes in real-time to ensure optimal output quality while minimizing waste and energy consumption. This challenge is compounded by the increasing complexity of products and the materials used, requiring ever more precise and adaptive manufacturing techniques. The importance of addressing this challenge cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation capacity of manufacturing firms. The development of an intelligent monitoring system that integrates advanced precision metrology techniques presents a promising solution to this problem. Such a system would enable real-time optimization of manufacturing processes, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and data analytics to dynamically adjust parameters for optimal performance. By doing so, it would not only enhance the precision and efficiency of manufacturing operations but also contribute significantly to sustainable manufacturing practices by reducing waste and energy consumption. This concept paper proposes the development of this intelligent monitoring system, outlining its potential impact on the ultra-precision manufacturing industry.
 Keywords: Ultra Precision, Monitoring, Processing, Real Time.

Impact Fracture Resistance of Fused Deposition Models from Polylactic Acid with Respect to Infill Density and Sample Thickness

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is widely employed in prototyping due to its cost-effectiveness, speed, and ability to produce detailed and functional prototypes using a variety of materials. Simultaneously, consideration for the use of biodegradable polymers and a general reduction in their usage while enhancing the production of polymer-based products is at the forefront of sustainable practices and environmental consciousness. This study investigates the impact fracture resistance of FDM models fabricated from Polylactic Acid (PLA), examining the influence of infill density (50% and 100% infill) and sample thickness (2 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm). Optical microscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM analysis of PLA filament and fractured FDM PLA surfaces in impacted samples were conducted to ascertain the influence of process parameters on impact damage and failure mechanisms. The results indicate that a 100% infill profile with a 2 mm thickness should be avoided due to unpredictable behavior under impact. Conversely, a 5 mm thickness demonstrates significantly higher durability in comparison to a 50% infill profile. Optimal impact strength is observed in samples with a 3 mm thickness, suggesting potential material savings with 50% infill without compromising mechanical properties. The findings contribute valuable insights for refining FDM parameters and advancing the understanding of material behaviors in sustainable manufacturing practices.

Seaweed: a sustainable solution for greening drug manufacturing in the pursuit of sustainable healthcare

The environmental impact of drug manufacturing raises concerns about sustainability in healthcare. To address this, exploring alternative approaches to drug production is crucial. This review focuses on seaweed as a sustainable resource for greening drug manufacturing processes. Seaweed offers advantages such as renewability, abundance, and a positive environmental footprint. The review begins by providing an overview of sustainable drug manufacturing practices and the challenges faced in achieving sustainability. It then discusses seaweed as a sustainable resource, including cultivation techniques and environmental benefits. Seaweed has various applications in drug manufacturing, including extracting and purifying bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic properties. Seaweed’s role in developing green technologies, such as seaweed-based excipients, biodegradable packaging materials, and as a source of sustainable energy for drug manufacturing processes, is highlighted. The environmental and economic implications of incorporating seaweed-based solutions are discussed, emphasizing reduced carbon footprint and cost-effectiveness. Regulatory and industrial perspectives are addressed, examining challenges, and opportunities for implementing seaweed-based drug manufacturing. Collaboration between academia, industry, and regulatory bodies is crucial for successful integration. The review presents future directions and opportunities, including emerging trends and innovations in seaweed-based drug manufacturing, areas for further research, policy development, and industry engagement recommendations. Incorporating seaweed into drug production facilitates a reduction in environmental impact, promotes resource efficiency, and contributes to sustainable healthcare. This review showcases seaweed-based solutions as a means to foster a greener future for drug manufacturing, addressing environmental concerns, and promoting sustainability.

Gradual error detection technique for non-destructive assessment of density and tensile strength in fused filament fabrication processes

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a widely used additive manufacturing process for producing functional components and prototypes. The FFF process involves depositing melted material layer-by-layer to build up 3D physical parts. The quality of the final product depends on several factors, including the component density and tensile strength, which are typically determined through destructive testing methods. X-ray microtomography (XCT) can be used to investigate the pore sizes and distribution. These approaches are time-consuming, costly, and wasteful, making it unsuitable for high-volume manufacturing. In this paper, a new method for non-destructive determination of component density and estimation of the tensile strength in FFF processes is proposed. This method involves the use of gradual error detection by sensors and convolutional neural networks. To validate this approach, a series of experiments has been conducted. Component density and tensile strength of the printed specimens with varying extrusion factor were measured using traditional destructive testing methods and XCT. The cumulative error detection method was used to predict the same properties without destroying the specimens. The predicted values were then compared with the measured values, and it was observed that the method accurately predicted the component density and tensile strength of the tested parts. This approach has several advantages over traditional destructive testing methods. The method is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly since it does not require the destruction of the product. Moreover, it facilitates the testing of each individual part instead of assuming the same properties for components from one series. Additionally, it can provide real-time feedback on the quality of the product during the manufacturing process, allowing for adjustments to be made as needed. The advancement of this approach points toward a future trend in non-destructive testing methodologies, potentially revolutionizing quality assurance processes not only for consumer goods but various industries such as electronics or automotive industry. Moreover, its broader applications extend beyond FFF to encompass other additive manufacturing techniques such as selective laser sintering (SLS), or electron beam melting (EBM). A comparison between the old destructive testing methods and this innovative non-destructive approach underscores the possible fundamental change toward more efficient and sustainable manufacturing practices. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce the time and cost associated with traditional destructive testing methods while ensuring the quality of FFF-manufactured products.

Role of Industry 5.0 for driving sustainability in the manufacturing sector: an emerging research agenda

PurposeWith ever-increasing global concerns over environmental degradation and resource scarcity, the need for sustainable manufacturing (SM) practices has become paramount. Industry 5.0 (I5.0), the latest paradigm in the industrial revolution, emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies with human capabilities to achieve sustainable and socially responsible production systems. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of I5.0 in enabling SM. Furthermore, the review discusses the integration of sustainable practices into the core of I5.0.Design/methodology/approachThe systematic literature review (SLR) method is adopted to: explore the understanding of I5.0 and SM; understand the role of I5.0 in addressing sustainability challenges, including resource optimization, waste reduction, energy efficiency and ethical considerations and propose a framework for effective implementation of the I5.0 concept in manufacturing enterprises.FindingsThe concept of I5.0 represents a progressive step forward from previous industrial revolutions, emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies with a focus on sustainability. I5.0 offers opportunities to optimize resource usage and minimize environmental impact. Through the integration of automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics (BDA), manufacturers can enhance process efficiency, reduce waste and implement proactive sustainability measures. By embracing I5.0 and incorporating SM practices, industries can move towards a more resource-efficient, environmentally friendly and socially responsible manufacturing paradigm.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings presented in this article have several implications including the changing role of the workforce, skills requirements and the need for ethical considerations for SM, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary collaborations, policy support and stakeholder engagement to realize its full potential.Originality/valueThis article aims to stand on an unbiased assessment to ascertain the landscape occupied by the role of I5.0 in driving sustainability in the manufacturing sector. In addition, the proposed framework will serve as a basis for the effective implementation of I5.0 for SM.

Comparative Analysis of Gas Emissions from Ecokiln and Artisanal Brick Kiln during the Artisanal Firing of Bricks

This article focuses on the research of gas emissions in two types of brick kilns located in the Maule Region, Chile. One of them is an artisanal brick kiln known as a “chonchón” (AKC), while the other is a semi-artisanal brick kiln with an improved design. The latter is referred to as the Ecokiln. This study focuses on the assessment of the emission profiles of key pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), CO, CO2, SO2, and NOx. The emission measurements of gasses, temperature, and flow were conducted during the operation of the kilns. These measurements were carried out following the protocol established by Chilean standards. The Ecokiln’s design facilitates optimal fluid dynamics. In direct comparison to the AKC, it exhibits reduced fuel consumption, shorter operation periods, an increased brick processing capacity, decreased burnt brick losses, and notably lower emissions, with a concentration of SO2 that is 83% less than that of the AKC, NOx emissions, 58% lower than the AKC, and a remarkable 74.3% reduction in PM10 emissions. Moreover, the Ecokiln reduces pollutant emissions, improving the well-being of brickmakers and their communities. These results offer insights into the environmental impact of local brick production and support sustainable manufacturing practices.

On Mars as it is on Earth: Bioinspired technologies for sustainability on Earth are paving the way for a new era of space exploration

This Perspective explores the synergy between bioinspired technologies for sustainability on Earth and their application in space exploration. We focus on the parallels between the paradigm shift toward sustainable development on our planet and establishing permanent human settlements on Mars and the Moon. Informed by Earth’s ecological and technological progress, which emphasizes the critical need for efficiency and integration with the planet’s metabolic processes, the discussion revolves around the challenges and opportunities in creating self-sustaining communities in space. Specifically, the focus is on the central role that bioinspired materials, particularly bioinspired chitinous materials, will play in developing sustainable manufacturing practices on Earth and in extraterrestrial environments. Considering the development of bioinspired chitinous manufacturing in the last decade, we argue that we are witnessing the birth of a new manufacturing paradigm embracing efficiency, resilience, and ecological cycles inspired by biological systems, which will be essential for sustainable living on Earth and advancing a new age of space exploration.