Implementation Of Technology Research Articles

Reflections on ecological social theory marking 50 years of E. F. Schumacher’s Small is Beautiful

While not primarily a social theorist in the classical sense, E. F. Schumacher’s interdisciplinary thought helped galvanise ecological social theory and the ecological movement more broadly. In this article, we introduce a special issue of the European Journal of Social Theory dedicated to engaging with E. F. Schumacher’s Small is Beautiful on its 50th anniversary. We provide both an overview of his life and work before locating Small is Beautiful within both its contemporary context and within today’s social theoretical literature. As we show, Schumacher was a fierce critic of capitalist modernity and its ‘gigantist’ tendencies. As we discuss below, he advocated a metaphysical turn in economics, the implementation of intermediate technology and a reorientation of social practices in line with a more ecologically attuned political economy.

Use of Non-Fungible Tokens for proof of ownership and originality of simulation model in logistics

A Non-Fungible Token (NFT) is a digital asset that is proof of ownership and originality in the digital world. It is generally a unique data unit that can be created from a digital file. But it is not just any digital file; it must be audio, video, image, or photo. This fact is mainly limiting. However, there are many other digital files for which the connection with NFT and blockchain technology would make sense. Such digital files include, among other things, various simulation models. With the development of the use of simulation models for the needs of managing multiple types of logistics processes daily, the questions of how to prevent the unauthorised copying of any simulation model and protect the copyright of its authors are coming to the fore. NFT and blockchain represent a robust technology whose possibilities of use are gradually expanding, while simulation models could be one area of their application. The paper presents the result of research that will enable the implementation of NFT and blockchain technology in simulation models. The research outcome confirmed the possibility of creating an NFT through the decentralised public blockchain XRP Ledger (XRPL) and the marketplace xrp. cafe, which can be used to verify the ownership and originality of the simulation model.

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON CHARACTERIZATION, SYNTHESIS, OF NANOMATERIALS AND ITS APPLICATION IN WATER TREATMENT

Nanomaterials offer unique properties that make them highly suitable for addressing water quality challenges. Understanding their characterization and synthesis is pivotal for optimizing their performance in water treatment applications. Various analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and surface area analysis are discussed for nanomaterial characterization. Additionally, synthesis methods including physical, chemical, and biological approaches are explored in detail, highlighting their advantages and limitations. The review also delves into the diverse applications of nanomaterials in water treatment, including pollutant removal, disinfection, and membrane filtration. Moreover, recent advancements and emerging trends in the field are examined to provide insights into future research directions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the characterization techniques, synthesis methods, and applications of nanomaterials in water treatment. Overall, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers involved in the development and implementation of nanomaterial-based water treatment technologies. Keywords: Nanomaterial, Characterization, Water treatment, Synthesis

Publication performance and trends in virtual reality research in education fields: a bibliometric analysis

AbstractVirtual Reality (VR) technology has the potential to enhance education by providing immersive and engaging learning experiences that can improve teaching and learning outcomes. While there is a growing interest in utilizing VR in education settings, further research is needed to understand its pedagogical effectiveness and address associated considerations and challenges. This bibliometric study comprehensively analyzes 1,157 relevant articles from the Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) and the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EPANDED) to gain insights into the current state of VR integration in education. The analysis revealed variation in VR adoption and research output across countries and institutions, underscoring the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the field. Key research areas and trends, such as the use of VR for skill development and training, were identified. Additionally, the study highlighted the need for more research on the pedagogical effectiveness of VR. The findings carry practical implications for guiding future research shaping policy decisions and advocating for a concerted effort to harness VR’s capabilities in education. This study serves as a practical roadmap, promoting the implementation and improvement of VR technology and fostering equitable and inclusive educational practices.

Probabilistic models for evaluating network edge's resistance against scan and foothold attack

AbstractThe threat of Scan and Foothold Attack to the Network Edge (SFANE) is increasing, which greatly affects the application and development of edge computing network architecture. However, existing works focus on the implementation of specific technologies that resist the SFANE but ignore the effectiveness analysis of them. To overcome this limitation, this paper constructs probabilistic models for evaluating network edge's resistance against SFANE. In particular, the attacker models of the SFANE based on the ATT&CK model are first formalized. Afterward, according to the state‐of‐the‐art defense technologies, three different defense strategies are illustrated: no defense, address mutation, and fingerprint decoy. Subsequently, three different probabilistic models are constructed to provide a deeper analysis of the theoretical effect of these strategies on resisting the SFANE. Finally, the experimental results show that the actual defense effect of each strategy almost perfectly follows its probabilistic model.

ГОТОВНІСТЬ МАЙБУТНІХ КЕРІВНИКІВ ЗАКЛАДІВ ВИЩОЇ ОСВІТИ ДО ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ ІННОВАЦІЙНИХ УПРАВЛІНСЬКИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ

The relevance of this article is determined by the necessity to ensure the competitiveness of educational institutions in the educational services market. Modern challenges require educational institutions to continuously improve their activities. Successful development of an educational institution is possible only through the integration of innovations that stimulate the achievement of its goals and contribute to improving the quality of education for students. This aligns with the interests of Ukrainian society, which, like any other developed society, is interested in a high level of educational services. With the growth of the educational services market and increasing competition, it is important for leaders of educational institutions to focus on searching for and implementing innovative management technologies to secure significant competitive advantages. Thus, the current market conditions and the need for competitive struggle highlight the importance of innovations for leaders, with innovative management technologies becoming key to achieving the goals of the educational institution and enhancing the quality of education. Objective: To analyze the readiness of future leaders of educational institutions to implement and apply innovative management technologies to enhance the competitiveness of their organizations in the educational services market. Methods: Study of scientific sources, legislative and normative-legal documents, surveys and interviews, case studies, SWOT analysis, expert assessments, and modeling. Results: During the study, the readiness of future educational institution leaders to implement innovative management technologies was evaluated; key barriers and challenges faced by future leaders, including limited resources, fear of change, and an insufficient level of knowledge about innovative technologies, were identified. At the same time, positive aspects were also discovered, namely a high level of motivation for learning and improvement, and readiness to introduce innovations to enhance the quality of education and adapt to modern labor market requirements. A comprehensive set of measures to increase the readiness of future leaders for innovation was developed and substantiated. This includes professional development programs, mentorship, and the creation of innovative educational spaces for experimentation and practical application of new approaches. The role of strategic planning in the successful implementation of innovative management technologies was also determined, which involves clear formulation of the mission, vision of the educational institution, as well as the development of specific goals and tasks to achieve defined results. Conclusions: This article examined the readiness of future educational institution leaders to apply innovative management technologies, which is crucial for enhancing competitiveness and the quality of educational services provided. The main barriers and challenges leaders may face when implementing innovations were identified, and methods to overcome these challenges were proposed. Special attention was given to the importance of a systematic approach and strategic planning in the process of adapting and implementing new practices in management. Developed and substantiated recommendations for focusing on innovative management practices include: enhancing the qualifications of future leaders, developing openness to change, and stimulating creativity and innovative thinking. It was determined that the successful implementation of innovative management technologies depends on a comprehensive approach that takes into account the specifics of the educational institution, the readiness of the staff for changes, and the presence of the necessary material and technical base. The findings of the study make it clear that innovative management technologies play a decisive role in forming an effective management model in modern educational institutions. Their implementation not only improves the quality of educational services but also ensures the sustainable development of educational organizations, meeting the challenges of the contemporary dynamic educational environment.

Assessing the Relationship between Technological Factors and the Implementation of Human Resource Information System: A survey in the Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Assemblies in the Upper West Region of Ghana

Over the years, public sector organization such as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana have been challenged by a significant number of factors that affect the implementation of Human Resource Management Information Systems (HRISs). The study focuses on assessing the technological factors affecting the implementation of the HRIS in the MMDAs in the Upper West Region of Ghana. The philosophical foundation of the study was positivism. A cross-sectional survey was employed in the study as part of a quantitative research design. The target population comprised of 187 Line managers. The study used a non-probability sampling technique known as purposive sampling. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect primary data. The study also embraced descriptive and inferential statistics. Bivariate regression analysis and correlation coefficient were used to establish causal relationships between variables. Stepwise regression was also used to determine the most influential variables in implementing of HRIS. It was concluded that IT Infrastructure and Compatibility had a moderate level of acceptance as factors that affect the implementation of the HRIS. In contrast, Quality Information, System Quality, and Complexity had a low level of acceptance. The study also concluded that Complexity, Quality Information, Compatibility and System Quality had correlated with the acceptance of the HRIS, whereas IT infrastructure did not correlate with the acceptance of the HRIS. Lastly, it was concluded that IT Infrastructure, Complexity, Quality Information, Compatibility, and System Quality did correlate with the Effectiveness of the HRIS. The study recommends that, HRIS Software adopted and implemented at the LGS and its Agencies must be user-friendly. The LGS and its Agencies do not have a guide that support new technology implementation such as the HRIS. Hence the need to adopt the guide offered in this study.

A Targeted Review on Revisiting and Augmenting the Framework for Technology Acceptance in the Renewable Energy Context

Given that the implementation of renewable technologies has some key bottlenecks in adoption, this topic has been explored. Particularly, we are reviewing existing theories and models to understand their fit for changing social structures and evolving world contexts. This review begins with an introduction followed by a background study on renewable energy technology (RET). We have employed a mixed-approach methodology to synthesize the relevant literature. The review comprises a summary and comparison of some existing theories and models such as TAM, TRA, and UTAUT, elucidating factors influencing technology adoption processes. Additionally, the review discusses the scope for future research, emphasizing the need for more nuanced frameworks that account for contextual intricacies and emerging trends in renewable energy adoption. Ultimately, the review concludes with insights into the ongoing discourse surrounding energy technology acceptance and recommendations on the inclusion of current world views in the scope for future study.

Creative approach in interactive learning

In the scientific article, the process of formation of a creative approach to training through interactive training is widely reflected. Examples of the application of interactive training methods in the training process, the systematic formation of a creative approach, and the improvement of the quality of training of students were shown. The use of a complex of interactive teaching technologies in the development of students' creative abilities leads to the deepening of theoretical approaches. The structure of an individual's creative abilities, their connection and dependence with intellectual abilities reflects the importance of the implementation of interactive learning technologies in the development of students' creative abilities.

Construction of PVDF-HKUST-1/BiVO4 hybrid electrospun flexible fiber membrane for enhanced piezo-photocatalytic reduction performance of Cr(VI)

For the practical implementation of Cr(Ⅵ) removal, effective and recyclable water treatment technology is essential. Polarized electric fields inside piezoelectric materials have proved to be a promising technique for facilitating photogenerated charge separation. In this work, Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst HKUST-1/BiVO4 and organic piezoelectric material PVDF were combined through electrospinning to create a novel flexible fiber PVDF-HKUST-1/BiVO4 (PVDF-HV) piezo-photocatalyst membrane. When the amount of HKUST-1/BiVO4 powder was 2.4% and the diameter of the obtained fiber film was 10 cm, the optimal reduction efficiency can be achieved by the piezoelectric photocatalytic reduction in solution with initial pH=2, and the piezo-photocatalytic efficiency of PVDF-HV reached up to 85.33% within 120 min, which was about 1.35 times and 2.19 times greater than that of single photocatalysis and piezoelectric catalysis, respectively. It successfully promoted photo charge separation based on the piezoelectric field in PVDF and the heterojunction produced between HKUST-1 and BiVO4. This research developed an efficient strategy for multi-path collection and exploitation of natural solar energy and vibration energy to boost photoactivity.

A Retrospective of Specialized Psychological and Pedagogical Classes and Technology of their Practical Implementation in a Pedagogical University

The article provides a historical overview of the development of psychological and pedagogical classes, as well as the current state of the network of psychological and pedagogical classes in the Russian Federation. The importance of psychological and pedagogical classes in the system of pre-professional pedagogical training is shown. The purpose of the article is to analyze the retrospective of specialized psychological and pedagogical and to show the technology of their practical implementation in a pedagogical university. The main methods of this article are: content analysis of the concepts of “pre-professional pedagogical training” and “psychological and pedagogical class”, analysis of scientific and methodological literature, analysis of historical and pedagogical, normative and comparative sources, as well as the results of domestic and international studies of specialized pedagogical classes, their formation, specialization, features of manifestation in different regions and model specifics. The results of the study. It is revealed that the idea of creating specialized psychological and pedagogical classes is not new. The conducted historical and pedagogical analysis showed that pedagogical classes arose in the middle of the XIX century and are connected with the history of the formation of women’s education in Russia. Over more than a century of history, teaching classes have acquired new formats, been abolished several times and revived again. A new period in the history of specialized psychological and pedagogical classes began in 2021 with the adoption of the Concept of specialized psychological and pedagogical classes. The technology of practical implementation of the Concept of specialized psychological and pedagogical classes in a pedagogical university is shown on the example of one of the models. The experience of organizing psychological and pedagogical classes in the Voronezh region is analyzed. In conclusion, conclusions are drawn about the importance of psychological and pedagogical classes in the system of continuing pedagogical education, as well as the integration of pedagogically gifted schoolchildren into professional community at the stage of studying at school. Various model organizations in the educational practice of psychological and pedagogical classes contribute to increasing the status of a teacher, as evidenced by the practice of the Voronezh region on the example of the Voronezh State Pedagogical University.

The effect of digital marketing on organizational agility of SACCOs in Meru Town

Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) are vital drivers of economic growth in the country. SACCOs provide financial services, including deposits, loans, savings accounts, money transfers, insurance, and payment services. Even though digital media exists to improve the flexibility and the speed of business processes to improve organizational agility, its aspects are a very recent phenomenon among Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations. An empirical inquiry was relevant to understand the domain of communication, marketing strategies, and its influence on organizational agility since the discourse of digital marketing is continuously developing. SACCOs must understand the association of digital marketing to organizational agility to embrace digital technology in their operations and stay relevant to their members while increasing their level of business resilience. The study sought to determine the effect of digital marketing (social media, mobile, and website marketing) on the organizational agility of SACCOs in Meru Town, Kenya. A descriptive research design was adopted to gather information on the relationship between the two research variables. With a target population of 5 SASRA-licensed SACCOs in Meru Town, data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire where a stratified sampling method was utilized to attain the desired representation target population of 52 respondents. A pilot test was conducted to check the reliability and validity of the questionnaire adopted as the research instrument. The data was tabulated and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, whereby tabular, graphical, and numerical representations were utilized. Multiple linear regression was conducted to establish the inferential statistics and define the relationship between digital marketing indicators and organizational agility. The study results established that social media marketing, mobile marketing, and website marketing are positively related to the organizational agility of SACCOs. A coefficient of determination (R-squared) of 0.180 indicated that approximately 18% of the variance in organizational agility could be accounted for by the combination of social media, mobile, and website marketing strategies. The moderate level of explanatory power implies that while the chosen predictors are relevant, other factors likely influence SACCOs' organizational agility. The study's outcomes encourage decision-makers to embrace a comprehensive approach that integrates digital strategies into a wider organizational transformation and adaptation framework. The study's findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding the intersection of digital marketing strategies and organizational agility. The study’s results emphasize that the benefits of these strategies extend beyond mere technological implementation, reflecting a fundamental shift in how organizations engage with their ecosystem, respond to changes, and navigate uncertainties.

Case Study of Deterioration of Mansar Lake and Comparative Study of FAB and SBR Technologies in Sewage Treatment Plant

The deterioration of Mansar Lake, a significant tourist attraction and a vital water resource in India, has become a matter of concern due to the discharge of untreated sewage and industrial effluents. The present study aims to investigate the factors leading to the degradation of Mansar Lake and the effectiveness of two advanced sewage treatment technologies, Fixed Activated Beds (FAB) and Sequencing Batch Reactors (SBR), in treating sewage waste. The study begins with a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to the degradation of Mansar Lake, including the inflow of untreated sewage, industrial effluents, and agricultural runoff, as well as the impact of climate change and anthropogenic activities. The research then moves on to the comparative study of FAB and SBR technologies, evaluating their performance in terms of pollutant removal efficiency, energy consumption, and operational costs. The results of the study show that both FAB and SBR technologies are effective in treating sewage waste, with SBR technology having a slight edge in terms of pollutant removal efficiency. However, FAB technology is more cost-effective and energy-efficient, making it a more viable option for developing countries with limited resources. The study concludes with recommendations for the implementation of FAB technology in the sewage treatment plant serving Mansar Lake, as well as the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent the inflow of untreated sewage and industrial effluents into the lake. The study also emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education in preserving the lake's ecological balance and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Mansar Lake, sewage treatment, FAB technology, SBR technology, pollutant removal efficiency, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, sustainable tourism.

UTILIZATION OF BIM TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENHANCING THE EFFICIENCY OF WATER SUPPLY AND WASTEWATER SYSTEMS DESIGN

Problem statement. The need for the formation and development of human resources in the construction industry of Ukraine to create a competitive sphere that complies with high standards of quality and efficiency, operating based on modern financial, economic, technical, and organizational mechanisms. One method to achieve the goals of innovative development is the modernization of architectural and construction design and engineering networks, particularly through the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies. These technologies enable effective decision-making at all stages of the life cycle of buildings and structures − from the initial idea to the stage of operation and even the dismantling of water supply and wastewater system engineering networks. The purpose of the article − to explore the utilization of BIM technologies to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of designing water supply and wastewater systems Conclusions. The application of BIM technologies in the design of water supply and wastewater systems significantly improves work efficiency. Creating digital models facilitates the interaction of all participants in the construction process and minimizes errors and conflicts during the design phase. The success of modernizing the construction industry became possible through active collaboration of all stakeholders. Public advocacy and participation in addressing industry issues provided a broader perspective on problem-solving. The implementation of BIM technologies allows for the development and improvement of water supply and wastewater system projects, contributing to work optimization and project planning enhancement.

Life Cycle Assessment Methodology Applied to a Wastewater Treatment Plant

Wastewater treatment plants are highly energy-intensive systems. This research uses Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to determine the impacts generated during the operation of a wastewater treatment plant. Three different scenarios are analyzed: a baseline scenario that considers a conventional activated sludge treatment technology exploiting data from an existing plant located in central Italy, a second scenario that involves the implementation of MBR technology applied to the baseline scenario, and finally a third scenario that consists of the addition of an anaerobic digester that allows energy recovery from biogas production, followed by a photovoltaic plant capable of supplying the plant energy demand. Global warming potential, eutrophication, and acidification are the environmental categories considered most relevant to emissions. The results showed that the effluent had the highest impact in terms of CO2 equivalent in all three situations due to the presence of N2O. Since emissions from biological processes, transportation, and wastewater are almost similar in all three scenarios, it is preferable to focus on the environmental impacts associated with energy consumption. The third scenario involves careful resource management and the use of treatment technologies that allow for a reduction in the use of nonrenewable energy sources in favor of renewable ones.

Liquid mass gauging during propellant transfer in microgravity

Advancing the precision of low-gravity liquid propellant mass gauging is a roadmap challenge for NASA and a significant obstacle to expanding human presence in space. We report flight test data for an implementation of a low-gravity liquid propellant mass gauging technology that is both non-invasive and propellant agnostic. The TRIO payload experiment flew twice on the Blue Origin New Shepard suborbital rocket and validated computational models of liquid distribution in microgravity at three different fill levels. The Propellant Refueling and On-orbit Transfer Operations (PROTO) payload experiment also flew twice on New Shepard and acquired mass gauging data before, during, and after a tank drain and fill that simulated in-space propellant transfers. Propellant volume estimates were derived at 1 Hz using the Modal Propellant Gauging (MPG) system. Analytical, semi-empirical, and finite element (FE) model results for predicted mode frequencies are compared to flight data for mode frequencies across a range of fill levels during the simulated propellant transfer. Flight (0-g), ground (1-g) and FEM mode frequencies for both 0- and 1-g are well-predicted by the semi-empirical models for frequency dependence on tank fill level.

Profiling national institutional archetypes for climate change technology implementation: application in small islands and least developed countries

In developing countries, when the implementation success of new climate adaptation and mitigation technologies fall short of expectations, the typical “suspects” cited are lack of funding or country expertise and allusions to “lack of institutional capacity.” The premise of this study is that the national institutional environment is the fundamental prerequisite for successful technology implementation, and despite much effort, a diagnostic approach to assessing this prerequisite is missing. Here, I propose an approach to do this, based on an understanding of the dynamics that interconnect country-level legal, regulatory and market mechanisms, societal norms, and inter/intra governmental structures. I estimate levels of country structural and systems supports, operating environment, implementer acceptance and country tractability. A preliminary test of the approach was completed through a survey of experts involved in the United Nations Technology Needs Assessment programs in Least Developed and Small Island Developing Countries. It was found that countries fall into four fundamental archetypes. A country’s archetype suggests characteristics of the institutional environment that help to explain the potential for technology implementation success. A further implication is that some countries that typically would not be considered very similar may possess similar country institutional environments. One consequence of this is that archetype-based groups could work together and learn from each other more effectively.

SAFETY AND INNOVATION. CONTRADICTIONS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INNOVATIONS

Problem statement. Innovative development of the economy is rightfully considered one of the most important strategic tasks for Ukraine on the path to ensuring national security and the safety of citizens' livelihoods. The current state of affairs in the implementation of innovations indicates that without creating special conditions for innovative activities in the country, we risk transforming from an industrial nation into a raw material and food base for developed countries around the world. This article explores the components of the effect achieved through the application of repair and restoration technologies, which enable the restoration of essential operational characteristics of machinery and equipment without disrupting the technological and production processes. |The purpose of the article. It analyzes the specific reasons behind the low receptiveness to innovations in our country, using the example of implementing such technologies. The article proposes solutions to address the challenges of innovation adoption based on the utilization of hardware control of machinery and equipment's performance, updating the regulatory framework, optimizing the management and remuneration system in enterprises. Conclusion. For the first time, a terminological apparatus of energy-resource service for objects of the technosphere is proposed. The conceptual principles of investment and innovation legislation are proposed for the first time. The essence of domestic innovative 'Technology of Disassembly Engineering of Friction Surfaces' is disclosed. The main contradictions in the implementation of innovative technologies in Ukraine are revealed. Ways to solve problems in the implementation of innovations based on the use of hardware control of the performance of machines and mechanisms, updating the regulatory framework, optimizing the management and payment systems for labor at enterprises are proposed. The suggested solutions can be valuable for strengthening the foundation of national industrial safety and economic independence in Ukraine, as well as for stimulating labor efficiency in the real sector of the economy.

Research and implementation of large-area sintering technology based on image-shaped laser

PurposeSelective laser sintering (SLS) is an essential technology in the field of additive manufacturing. However, SLS technology is limited by the traditional point-laser sintering method and has reached the bottleneck of efficiency improvement. This study aims to develop an image-shaped laser sintering (ISLS) system based on a digital micromirror device (DMD) to address this problem. The ISLS system uses an image-shaped laser light source with a size of 16 mm × 25.6 mm instead of the traditional SLS point-laser light source.Design/methodology/approachThe ISLS system achieves large-area image-shaped sintering of polymer powder materials by moving the laser light source continuously in the x-direction and updating the sintering pattern synchronously, as well as by overlapping the splicing of adjacent sintering areas in the y-direction. A low-cost composite powder suitable for the ISLS system was prepared using polyether sulfone (PES), pinewood and carbon black (CB) powders as raw materials. Large-sized samples were fabricated using composite powder, and the microstructure, dimensional accuracy, geometric deviation, density, mechanical properties and feasible feature sizes were evaluated.FindingsThe experimental results demonstrate that the ISLS system is feasible and can print large-sized parts with good dimensional accuracy, acceptable geometric deviations, specific small-scale features and certain density and mechanical properties.Originality/valueThis study has achieved the transition from traditional point sintering mode to image-shaped surface sintering mode. It has provided a new approach to enhance the system performance of traditional SLS.

A data-driven framework to inform sustainable management of animal manure in rural agricultural regions using emerging resource recovery technologies

Thermochemical conversion technologies are emerging as preferred resource recovery practices for managing animal manure in agricultural regions. Although the implementation of such technologies has been previously studied, difficulties exist in maintaining balance between high rate of resource recovery and low environmental, economic, and social impacts, particularly in rural regions with limited resources. We developed a data-driven framework by integrating machine learning with life cycle thinking that can be used as an open-source tool to help overcome these barriers. The framework was applied to compare two emerging technologies: pyrolysis versus hydrothermal carbonization for managing the excess poultry litter in a rural agricultural region. Among different machine learning models, random forest regression was the most successful to predict resource recovery of both technologies. Next, sustainability analysis indicated that the environmental (global warming), economic (annual worth), and social (system intrusiveness) impacts of pyrolysis was lower than hydrothermal carbonization. Finally, the framework revealed that implementation of pyrolysis at 600 °C for 1 h with the heating rate of 20 °C/min would result in the highest rate of resource recovery that corresponded to the lowest impacts. These results can be helpful in providing operational conditions for implementing emerging resource recovery technologies in rural agricultural regions.