Research Library

Hao Zhang, Yating Guo, Meng Yu et al.

Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry · 2023

Javiera Anguita, Gonzalo Pizarro, Ignacio T. Vargas

Bioelectrochemistry · 2022

Luyao Huang, Weiwei Chang, Dawei Zhang et al.

Corrosion Science · 2022

Baoli Qin, Guiqin Yang, Zheng Zhuang et al.

Electrochimica Acta · 2024

Anwar Ahmad, Alia Said Al Senaidi, Mohammad S. Mubarak

Journal of Environmental Management · 2024

Edyta Łaskawiec

Preprints.org · 2022

Swimming pools are examples of water-intensive facilities, where solutions for reducing economic and environmental costs are increasingly frequently searched. One of the solutions is the recovery of water from wastewater, including from washings obtained through the process of rinsing filter bed. The study objective was the qualitative and quantitative assessment of post-coagulation sludges, the main pollutant found in the washings. During the analyses, assessment of the sedimentation capabilities of the sludges was performed (gravitationally), particle size distribution was assessed (particle size distribution analyzer) and assessment of phytotoxicity with the use of plant indicators in short-term tests was performed (Lemna minor, Lepidium sativum, Sinapis alba, Raphanus sativus). The samples were collected from two independent circulations, which differed in terms of capacity and type of coagulant used. The tested post-coagulation sludges were characterized by high content of total suspended solids: in samples from Circulation 1 from 251 to 128 mg/l, in Circulation 2 from 489 to 228 mg/l. However, the sedimentation processes enabled significant separation of sludges. The hydrolyzed coagulant contributed to the improvement of sedimentation capabilities of sludges. Despite the fact that in many samples low sludge concentrations favored stimulation of plant growth, the post-coagulation sludges can constitute a hazard to plant growth, particularly in the long-term perspective.

P. Kindstedt

Microbe Magazine · 2013

Cheese making transforms milk into either fresh or ripened cheese, with the aging process ranging from weeks to years. The first days establish the chemical characteristics of the cheese before it begins to age, setting the stage for microbial ripening. Of the plethora of organisms in new cheese, some remain viable and may proliferate during aging, others will be suppressed, while still others may be suppressed initially and then favored or vice versa, depending on the chemical environment to which they are subject. To add to this complexity, the chemical environment within the cheese may change dramatically as ripening progresses. Much of this complexity can be reduced to a few scientific principles that cheese makers vary systematically to achieve a wide range of outcomes. The historical development of distinctly different cheese varieties involved modulating these basic principles.

John Philip M. Rivera

Preprints.org · 2024

This study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of retrofitting techniques aimed at enhancing the seismic resilience of seismically vulnerable historical buildings. Recognizing the dual objectives of structural safety and architectural preservation, this research evaluates and compares several advanced retrofitting methods, including base isolation, strengthening of masonry, steel bracing systems, Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) wrapping, and damping devices. Each technique is critically assessed based on its effectiveness in mitigating seismic risks, its compatibility with historical architectural features, and its applicability to various building types. Base isolation is highlighted for its ability to decouple buildings from ground motion, thereby significantly reducing seismic forces and protecting architectural integrity. Strengthening of masonry through the use of fiber-reinforced polymers and steel elements enhances the ductility and strength of masonry walls, making them more resilient to seismic forces. Steel bracing systems are shown to provide essential lateral support, particularly in timber-framed structures, improving overall stability and reducing deformation during earthquakes. FRP wrapping is identified as a versatile technique that strengthens structural elements without compromising aesthetic value, making it suitable for reinforcing concrete and masonry components. Damping devices, including viscous dampers and tuned mass dampers, are discussed for their ability to dissipate seismic energy and control structural vibrations, offering a minimally invasive solution that preserves historical aesthetics. The study also addresses several challenges and research gaps associated with these retrofitting techniques, such as ensuring architectural compatibility, assessing long-term material performance, optimizing cost-effectiveness, and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. By advancing knowledge in these areas, the research aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in the development of retrofitting solutions. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to safeguard historical buildings against seismic hazards. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and best practices in structural engineering and architectural conservation, stakeholders can develop sustainable, cost-effective, and culturally sensitive retrofitting strategies that protect valuable cultural heritage for future generations.

Mohamed Elsawi Mahmoud

· 2025

This review article examines recent advancements in durable construction technologies, focusing on three interconnected domains: microbial applications in construction materials, composite beam structures with post-tensioning, and advanced modeling techniques. The paper synthesizes findings from over 40 recent studies to provide a comprehensive overview of current research trends, methodological approaches, and practical applications. Key findings highlight the significant improvements in material properties achieved through microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP), with strength increases of up to 80% reported in some studies. The enhanced structural performance of composite beams with external post-tensioning demonstrates load capacity increases of 40-55% for draped tendon configurations, while the degree of shear connection significantly influences overall performance. Advanced modeling techniques, including spatial grillage models and phase field approaches, offer increasingly accurate predictions of structural behavior across multiple scales. The integration of these technologies offers promising pathways toward more durable, durable, and efficient construction practices. This review identifies research gaps and suggests future directions for advancing durable construction technologies, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches that combine biological, structural, and computational innovations.

Sm Rahman

Preprints.org · 2021

Shipbreaking research has not been in the forefront until the last decade in which environmental and occupational hazards have been highlighted while economic sustainability and contextual conditions were not equally considered. The adoption of a triple bottom line approach across core business issues (environmental impacts, workplace safety ) as well as peripheral stakeholders expectation (environmental sustainability focus) has been retarded due to the less attention on the latter. Based on the findings of the 128 review papers, the study suggests that organizational learning and economic sustainability needs to prioritize through the formation of strange alliance among the stakeholders. The study argues that the dialogue and discussion on the peripheral stakeholders (NGOs, yard managers, national and international policy organizations) would lead to a more sustainable shipbreaking industry in the south Asian regions.

Oludolapo Esther Bewaji

· 2025

ABSTRACTHeavy metal contamination in drinking water poses a significant public health risk in developing countries where access to safe and clean water is limited due to inadequate infrastructure, poor surveillance systems and environmental negligence.This review explores the sources of heavy metals contamination (lead,arsenic, cadmium,mercury, chromium,iron and copper) in water supplies across developing countries. Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, mining and poor waste management practices are identified as primary contributors to elevated metal concentrations in water bodies. Prolonged exposure to these metals even at low levels is associated with severe health conditionsincluding neurological damage, kidney disease and cancers. It also evaluates the existing drinking water surveillance programs in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, India and Brazil and the challenges faced by these countries in monitoring and mitigating water contamination, including limited technical capacity, insufficient funding and weak regulatory enforcement.While some progress has been made through national initiatives and international support, many systems remain underdeveloped and fragmented. This review emphasizes the urgent need for integrated strategies to improve water quality. It also highlights the role of international organizations in supporting local efforts through funding, technical assistance and advocacy.Ultimately, protecting drinking water from heavy metal contamination requires coordinated efforts among governments, communities and global partners to ensure universal access to safe and clean water.

Ashley Sousa

· 2021

Cellulosic ethanol has shown promise as a feasible alternative fuel, especially if the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass is done through a single step process known as consolidated bioprocessing (CBP). A major challenge for CBP, especially for large-scale industrial applications is the inhibition of celluloytic microorganisms by ethanol. While recombinant DNA technology and microbial acclimatization by exposure have resulted in some increase in ethanol tolerance, the search remains for robust bacteria that can proliferate in industrially-relevant conditions. This study applied an anaerobic gradient system to provide a continous spatial pathway for the selection of cellulolytic consortia with increased tolerance to ethanol. DGGE analysis showed that increasing concentrations of ethanol impacts the community profile. Biofilm formation of cellulose degrading communities has been found to be influenced by species diversity. Environmental gradients have shown promise for selective enrichment of cellulolytic consortia at desired conditions required for industrial application.

Subir Gupta

· 2023

Analytics has become an essential tool in our search for long-lasting and forward- looking solutions in a world where information is constantly shared, and data is being made at a rate that has never been seen before. Welcome to the ”Sustain- able and Predictive Analytics Model,” an in-depth look at how sustainability and predictive analytics work together. This writing gives people a complete plan for using data-driven ideas to help society and business. Analysis methods for the long term and their ability to predict The book starts by looking at the basic concepts behind sustainable and predictive analytics. This creative work details why and how these two fields must work together to solve the world’s most pressing problems. In this study’s second part, we discuss the analyti- cal ideas and tools we used. The fundamental analytics ideas are looked at in depth to start with a solid base. In the next part, you’ll learn basic facts to help you analyse and understand data more effectively. In the third part, the basic ideas of sustainability are looked at. The main goal of this effort is to bring about sustainable growth. Through a thorough look at sustainability ideas, you will learn what you need to know to make sound economic, environmen- tal, and societal decisions. Part 4 of ”Approaches to Predictive Modelling For the book to make accurate predictions, it must look closely at historical facts. This part will overview the different predictive modelling methods and explain their advantages and disadvantages. Collecting information for a full look at long-term sustainability For statistics to work well, data must be used. This chapter gets into the book’s main topic, which is how to collect and prepare data for a study on sustainability. Building a model that can predict sustain- ability By using the information and tools in this book, we can start the process of building predictive sustainability frameworks, which will help us make well- informed choices about the future. Case studies on how to use statistics that are good for the environment Using real-world examples and case studies help show how important sustainable statistics are in many fields. Explores from a social and moral point of view. In the information age we live in, ethics are becoming increasingly important. The writers of this book look into the ethical and social aspects of sustainable and predictive analytics to ensure they align with responsible practices. We are checking and analysing how accurate and useful the model is. To ensure predictions are accurate throughout the process, you must know much about model validation and performance review. In this part, we’ll talk about how to set up and connect a certain system or piece of technology. The most important thing is that analytics work well with existing systems. This chapter looks at the different ways release and integration can be done. Chapter 11: What the future holds for sustainable and predictive analytics Analytics is a field that is constantly growing and improving. The book looks into the future by discussing upcoming technological changes for sustainable and predictive analytics. Final Thoughts and an Immediate Call for Change A call to action demonstrates the book’s turning point. This article ex- amines the many effects of sustainable and predictive analytics and encourages readers to use this changing method for a better future. This academic study digs deep into the ”Sustainable and Predictive Analytics Model” literature and looks at the complicated link between data, sustainability, and prediction. The joint projects described in the book hold hope for future generations because they show new ways to do things and help make the world more sustainable.

R. Nikolic

· 2012

This month's issue has the following articles: (1) Honoring a Legacy of Service to the Nation - The nation pays tribute to George Miller, who retired in December 2011 as the Laboratory's tenth director; (2) Life-Extension Programs Encompass All Our Expertise - Commentary by Bruce T. Goodwin; (3) Extending the Life of an Aging Weapon - Stockpile stewards have begun work on a multiyear effort to extend the service life of the aging W78 warhead by 30 years; (4) Materials by Design - Material microstructures go three-dimensional with improved additive manufacturing techniques developed at Livermore; (5) Friendly Microbes Power Energy-Producing Devices - Livermore researchers are demonstrating how electrogenic bacteria and microbial fuel cell technologies can produce clean, renewable energy and purify water; and (6) Chemical Sensor Is All Wires, No Batteries - Livermore's 'batteryless' nanowire sensor could benefit applications in diverse fields such as homeland security and medicine.

Charles M. Lieber

· 2009

Abstract : Efficient compact power sources are critical to future mobile technologies, yet limitations with existing sources have restricted development. The objective of this research is to exploit advances in nanoscience to enable new capabilities in compact biofuel cells. The research program has focused on (i) controlled synthesis and characterization of nanowire building blocks that can function as probes of fundamental biofuel cell processes, (ii) development of novel methods for hierarchical assembly of these nanoscale structures to enable studies of power scaling, and (iii) development and fabrication of new nanoscale electrodes enabling studies of microbial fuel cells down to the level of single bacteria. First, methods for the predictable and controlled synthesis of branched nanowires consisting of single crystal silicon backbones with metal nanowire branches have been developed. Nanocluster catalyzed growth was used to control the diameter and dopant concentration of silicon nanowire backbones, and metal branches were prepared using a novel nanocluster seeded solution phase growth. Second, an approach for large area, uniformly aligned and controlled density nanowire and nanotube films that involves expanding a bubble from a homogeneous suspension of these materials was developed. The blown-bubble films allow the unique properties of nanowires and to be exploited in applications that require large surface areas. Third, nanofabrication was used to define electrode arrays in which the exposed electrode area of individual elements was designed to limit interactions specifically with one or more bacterial cell and fabrication of optically transparent electrode arrays was carried out on transparent substrates to enable in-situ imaging of individual cells during electrochemical measurements. Results advance significantly our fundamental knowledge of branched nanoscale building blocks.

Swati Kachawa

International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology · 2018

: A microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a bio-electrochemical device that harnesses the power of respiring microbes to convert organic substrates directly into electrical energy. Microbial fuel cells work by allowing bacteria to do what they do best, oxidize and reduce organic molecules. There are different aspects of Microbial Fuel Cells as well as different types of fuel cells. Microbial fuels cell can be used for different purposes such as electricity generation, Bio hydrogen production, biosensors and waste water treatment. However, the MFC technology still faces major challenges, particularly in terms of chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency. So in order to increase efficiency of MFC, coating of silver nanoparticles on electroplates has been proved a more efficient method nanoparticle’s can be more economically formed by green chemistry using extracts of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi Leaves) and then can be used for coating. Overall this article is fully focused on treating of waste water using MFC and generating electricity at different variations.

Matthew K. Burgess, R. T. Murray, Veronica Lucian et al.

ArXiv.org · 2025

Conventional tissue engineering methodologies frequently depend on pharmacological strategies to induce or expedite tissue repair. However, bioengineered strategies incorporating biophysical stimulation have emerged as promising alternatives. Electroactive materials facilitate the provision of controlled electrical, mechanical, and electromechanical stimuli, which support cell proliferation and tissue remodelling. Despite their ability to supply external electrical and mechanical stimuli to the tissue microenvironment, the electroactive polymers in use today often lack critical biochemical signals essential for native-like cell-cell and cell-scaffold interactions, thereby constraining their regenerative capabilities. To address the demand for biomimetic materials that possess enhanced capabilities in promoting cell and tissue stimulation, we present the development of a novel class of polymers called ionomeric extracellular matrices (iECMs). By utilising the linker-mediated conjugation of sulfonic acid biomolecules (taurine) to the backbone of an extracellular matrix protein (collagen), we illustrate the potential of iECMs as the first electromechanical actuating material platform derived entirely from ECM materials, paving the way for dynamic and soft-robotic platforms for a wide range of tissue engineering applications.

Jaisimha Manipatruni

· 2022

This project involves Synthesis and Characterisationof Reduced Graphene Oxide/MnO2/Polyanilinebased Nanofluid which acts as a liquid electrode forRechargeable Flow Battery Applications. Thesynthesised Electroactive Nanofluid(EANF)potentially would display very fast charge transferproperties and can be used for High Power FlowBattery Applications.

Gary Koenig

· 2019

While there are many material characterization techniques that are employed for the quality control processes of lithium-ion battery active material powders, eventually the materials must be validated electrochemically in battery cells. This requires making the cells including slurry mixing, slurry coating and drying, electrode calendering and pairing, and final cell assembly. Fabricating cells requires significant equipment and material expense and, in some cases, significant time. Additionally, the cells must be electrochemically tested which depending on the protocol can take multiple days. A technique that provides insights into the electrochemical properties of battery materials without cell fabrication and electrochemical evaluation could improve battery active material powder quality control and potentially reduce the time and cost involved in material validation. Our lab has been working on a technique where dispersions of battery active materials are evaluated electrochemically during collisions with current collectors. The technique has been referred to as dispersed particle resistance (DPR), and in previous studies we have shown that DPR measurements provide an indicator of the rate capability of lithium-ion battery active materials. DPR has a significant advantage with regards to timescale for material evaluation because the method takes only a few minutes and has the option of high throughput analysis due to a flow-through configuration. We have also adapted the technique to characterization of the particles in aqueous dispersions, and in this presentation we will demonstrate that the technique is effective with aqueous dispersions of cathode materials, including water-sensitive layered metal oxides with high nickel content such as LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2.

RAJESH KUMAR SAHOO

ChemRxiv · 2022

A Systematic Assessment of Quantum mechanical (density functional theory) and semiempirical methods are highly powerful techniques that allow the study of electroactive organic compounds and the discovery of organic electroactive substances for Li-hybrid redox flow batteries for the assessment of natural cathode substances. In this paper, a combination of semiempirical AM1 with PM3 calculation methods was implemented for the theoretical lumo energy for screening of a large number of quinone derivatives taking Lumo energy as a lead descriptor for selection of finer candidate and use for further analysis by DFT method B2LYP-D3 with 6-31++G (d, p) basis set was used to calculate electrochemical properties value for the detection of some best candidates for use in the new generation of Li- organic hybrid redox flow battery. The calculation of its electro-active properties using DMA as solvent. This computational screening becomes centered on comparing all molecules designed to predict the cell potentials of quinone-primarily for the design of cathode organic electroactive material for LiHRFB batteries. Additionally, we also compared the homo Lumo gap to get the best molecule that has better electron reorganization energy as compared to all the descriptors the homo-LUMO gap of the quinone derivative act as a lead descriptor for the analysis of electron reorganization energy. Solvation energy Calculation was done using the CPCM model accompanied with the aid of reduction strength calculation with DFT yielded high accuracy for finding the suitable organic molecules.

Peilin Zhang

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) · 2018

Abstract Autoimmune disease is a group of diverse clinical syndromes with defining autoantibodies within the circulation. The pathogenesis of autoantibodies in autoimmune disease is poorly understood. In this study, human autoantigens in all known autoimmune diseases were examined for the amino acid sequences in comparison to the microbial proteins including bacterial and fungal proteins by searching Genbank protein databases. Homologies between the human autoantigens and the microbial proteins were ranked high, medium, and low based on the default search parameters at the NCBI protein databases. Totally 64 human protein autoantigens important for a variety of autoimmune diseases were examined, and 26 autoantigens were ranked high, 19 ranked medium to bacterial proteins (69%) and 27 ranked high and 16 ranked medium to fungal proteins (66%) in their respective amino acid sequence homologies. There are specific autoantigens highly homologous to specific bacterial or fungal proteins, implying potential pathogenic roles of these microbes in specific autoimmune diseases. The computational examination of the primary amino acid sequences of human autoantigens in comparison to the microbial proteins suggests that the environmental exposure to the commensal or pathogenic microbes is potentially important in pathogenesis of a majority of autoimmune diseases, providing a new direction for further experimental investigation in searching for new diagnostic and therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases.

Kartik Tiwary

Research Square · 2025

Abstract Heavymetal contamination persists in water, soil, and sediments owing to its toxicity, bioaccumulation potential, and continuous inputs from mining, metallurgy, and ewaste processing. Synthetic biology offers a route to engineer microbes and microalgae with metalspecific uptake, binding, and redoxtransformation capabilities that outperform conventional physicochemical treatments. We conducted a PRISMAScR scoping review of peerreviewed literature indexed in Scopus and PubMed (January 2015 – May 2025). After screening 941 records, 69 studies met the inclusion criteria. Bacterial chassis dominated (almst 90 % of studies), principally E. coli and C. metallidurans , whereas engineered alge (25 %) and funi (25 %) remain underrepresented. Multimetal remediation designs accounte for 61 % of experimental work, ye only 8 % progressed to pilot scae and 6 % to field trials. Reported interventions improved metalremoval efficiencies 1.5–3fold and increased LC₅₀ tolerance two to fourfold relative to wildtype strains. Key barriers to deployment include genetic stability, biosafety and containment, cost of inducers, and limited performance data under complex environmental matrices.This review provides the first decade‑scale synthesis of synthetic‑biology strategies for microbial and algal heavy‑metal remediation, offering a quantitative map of chassis selection, genetic toolkits, and mechanistic pathways. By identifying technology bottlenecks, particularly biosafety governance and field‑scale validation it outlines a research agenda for translating laboratory advances into sustainable environmental applications that support SDGs 6 and 12.

Sugoto Maulik

· 2023

<p>The integration of renewable energy resources is a prevailing trend in modern power systems. Wind and solar energy are key among these renewables, linked to the grid via power electronic converters. These converters require precise synchronization of their output with the grid, achieved through a phase-locked loop (PLL). The PLL’s ability to accurately track the grid voltage phase directly impacts synchronization stability. Moreover, stability relies on the converter’s controller, loads, and grid stiffness. The inclusion of these cross-linked dynamics culminates in a complex analytical model. However, commonly used reduced-order models often omit load dynamics, limiting the obtained insights. Addressing these limitations, this paper introduces a comprehensive method to model a 3- phase grid-tied inverter with an SRF-PLL and local loads, utilizing dynamic phasors. The approach evaluates the impact of system parameters, especially load configuration, on synchronization stability via eigenvalue analysis of the linearized state-space model. This model is apt for investigating weak grids and islanded distributed generation (DG) with diverse local loads. The model showcases stability boundaries, aiding the design of robust renewable energy systems.<br> </p>

Tommaso Caldognetto

· 2020

<div><div><div><p>Grid-tied inverters are widely used for interfacing renewable energy sources or storage devices to low-voltage electrical power distribution systems. Lately, a number of different control techniques have been proposed to address the emerging requirements of the smart power system scenario, in terms of both functionalities and performance. This paper reviews the techniques proposed for the implementation of current-controlled or voltage-controlled inverters in microgrids. By referring to a voltage source inverter with LCL output filter, the different control architectures are classified as single-, double-, and triple- loop. Then, the functionalities that are needed or recommended in the grid-connected, islanded, and autonomous operating modes of the grid-tied inverter are identified and their implementation in the different control structures is discussed. To validate the analysis and to better illustrate the merits and limitations of the most effective solutions, six control strategies are finally implemented and experimentally compared on a single-phase, grid-connected inverter setup.</p></div></div></div>

Ahmed G. Elkafas

Research Square · 2024

Abstract Maritime transportation has a remarkable contribution to the increase of pollutant gases in the atmosphere and adapting alternative energy systems to ship’s main power grid is an effective method to both save energy and reduce the amount of emission gases. The concept of green shipping is now becoming an important issue for ship owners, shipping lines, and shipbuilders globally. Solar energy may supply an environmentally friendly part of the total energy balance of a ship. Egypt is in the world’s solar belt and has excellent solar energy availability. Therefore, the present work aims to present a case study for installing a photovoltaic solar system onboard a passenger/Ro-Ro ship sailing between Safaga Port in Egypt and Yanbu Port in Saudi Arabia. Meteorological data for Safaga and Yanbu sailing route is presented to calculate the output power of that system. The proposed ship is designed to accommodate 843 passengers and 227 cars. The solar system onboard the ship has been modeled based on the available weather deck and bridge deck areas. The solar system will be composed of 1229 solar panels with 565 batteries. The proposed solar system will produce 1625 kWh/day used for the hoteling system of the ship. As a result of the calculations, 0.333 tons of low Sulphur fuel oil is saved in a day by the generators over the designed solar system. It is found significant environmental impacts within the calculation. By adopting such a solar system to the vessel, it is determined that there is a decrease of 0.27 tons of SOx, 7 tons of NOx, 415 tons of CO 2 , and 0.18 tons of PM emission that occur during the operations annually. A cost analysis is conducted to assess the economic benefits of the installed system. It shows that the proposed solar system will save 326,000 $ per year in addition to being clean to the environment, less emissions, and green ship.

Andysah Putera Utama Siahaan

· 2018

The development of the current era of globalization has an impact on the increasing demand for electrical energy consumption. Very needed alternative renewable energy sources to meet the electricity needs at this time one of them uses photovoltaic. Photovoltaic functions to convert solar energy into electrical energy. The robot is a piece of technology that cannot be separated from consumption of electric energy; electric energy is the primary power source of the robot. Limitations of battery resources in robots can be assisted by the alternative energy to meet the electrical power needs of the robot battery.

Jørgen Apeland

University of Stavanger eBooks · 2021

Unmanned aerial systems can be used for a range of industrial applications to reduce risk, cost, and time. Fuel cell-based propulsion systems are outlined as a solution to extend mission endurance, one of the current main barriers for further adoption. This coincides with a general societal push towards more sustainable aviation and the use of fuel cells and hydrogen as important zero-emission enablers. In this thesis, results from research about the use of fuel cells to extend multirotor drone flight endurance are presented. This application entails certain challenges compared to fixed-wing drones, which has been the scope of most previous research. The research explores the performance threshold between batteries and a fuel cell-based propulsion system, the prospects of further adoption, and how the performance can be improved. A prototype fuel cell system is developed and integrated into an X8 multirotor drone with a take-off mass of 21 kg and flight-tested. The specific energy on a power plant level was 243 Wh/kg, and the gross endurance for the current system is estimated to be 76 minutes, a 90% increase from the comparable endurance of the battery-powered alternative. The performance of the 2 kW fuel cell hybrid system is characterized in laboratory testing and exposed to relevant load profiles with a peak load of 2.8 kW. This is one of few independent third-party multirotor drone integrations of a fuel cell-based propulsion system. Based on experimental data from laboratory testing and full-scale flight in a realistic operating environment, a unique overview of associated challenges and further work is provided. As there is little published research on this topic, the work should be valuable for the research community, as well as drone operators and technology providers.

Gwenn Flowers

· 2024

Detection, attribution and projection of glacier and ice-sheet change characterize much of our community’s work, motivated in part by the associated impacts ranging from local hazards to regional water supply to global sea-level rise. Toward improved attribution of glacier change on local to regional scales, I profile work aimed at discerning the internal versus external drivers of glacier behaviour through process-oriented studies. Using examples from northern Canada, combining observational and numerical approaches improves our understanding of fundamental processes that define the boundary conditions at the ice interface with bedrock, water and atmosphere. These studies have allowed us to revisit questions related to glacier surging, hydrology and ice-dammed lakes and the co-evolution of glacier geometry and thermal structure, with occasionally surprising and counter-intuitive results.While the internal dynamics of glacier systems have the potential to confound the climate signal on societally relevant timescales, the direct effects of climate via surface mass balance remain as important as ever. Improved observational platforms, advances in modelling and the growing abundance and availability of remotely sensed data have amplified our capacity to study these systems, and more generously than ever reveal information archived by glacier processes. Using these tools, we are now beginning to disentangle the contributions of the geologic substrate, environmental setting, internal ice dynamics and climate forcing to observed glacier change in globally significant ice-rich parts of the world.

Panagiota Pierrou

· 2025

Exploring the ocean floor by studying benthic organisms offers a unique opportunity to understand marine ecosystems. Benthic organisms, which live on the ocean floor, play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, the food chain, and the balance of the marine environment. In the classroom, students can study the unique characteristics of these organisms, such as their morphology, their adaptations to the environment, and their importance to life on Earth.Additionally, benthic organisms serve as natural records of geological and ecological history. By examining fossils or the chemical markers they contain, scientists gain valuable insights into the Earth's past, such as climate changes and the evolution of life. At the same time, studying their current adaptations to environmental pressures provides evidence about future challenges and changes in ecosystems. Through activities such as simulations, microscopic observations, and data analysis, students develop environmental awareness and scientific thinking, while enriching their understanding of the dynamic relationship between the past, present, and future in the oceans Keywords: Benthic organisms, Ocean floor exploration, Geological history, Climate change, Environmental education, Scientific thinking, Ecological balance, Marine biodiversity conservation, Classroom simulations

Paul Smith

· 2022

Terraforming Mars requires establishment of essential, ecosystem services on a planet currently unamenable to Terran species. Shorter term, assembling Terran-type ecosystems within contained environments is conceivable. An assemblage of organisms that might form an early, forest environment is proposed, with rationale for its selection. A case is made for establishment of a contained facsimile, old growth forest on Mars, providing an oasis, proffering vital ecosystem functions. It would serve as an extraterrestrial nature reserve, psychological refuge and utilitarian botanic garden, supporting species of value to colonists for secondary metabolites, substances otherwise requiring freighting or in-situ manufacture. The design presented includes organisms that might tolerate local environmental variance and be assembled into a novel, bioregenerative forest ecosystem. This would differ from Earthly forests due to the potential impact of local abiotic parameters on ecosystem functions, but it is argued that biotic support for space travel and colonization requires such developments.

Honghong Yuan, Yumeng Huang, Ouyuan Jiang et al.

Frontiers in Microbiology · 2022

Arsenate [As(V)] is a toxic metalloid and has been observed at high concentrations in groundwater globally. In this study, a bioelectrochemical system (BES) was used to efficiently remove As(V) from groundwater, and the mechanisms involved were systematically investigated. Our results showed that As(V) can be efficiently removed in the BES cathode chamber. When a constant cell current of 30 mA ( I cell , volume current density = 66.7 A/m 3 ) was applied, 90 ± 3% of total As was removed at neutral pH (7.20–7.50). However, when I cell was absent, the total As in the effluent, mainly As(V), had increased approximately 2–3 times of the As(V) in influent. In the abiotic control reactor, under the same condition, no significant total As or As(V) removal was observed. These results suggest that As(V) removal was mainly ascribed to microbial electrosorption of As(V) in sludge. Moreover, part of As(V) was bioelectrochemically reduced to As(III), and sulfate was also reduced to sulfides [S(–II)] in sludge. The XANES results revealed that the produced As(III) reacted with S(–II) to form As 2 S 3 , and the residual As(III) was microbially electroadsorbed in sludge. This BES-based technology requires no organic or chemical additive and has a high As(V) removal efficiency, making it an environment-friendly technique for the remediation of As-contaminated groundwater.

Nimra Latif, Toheed Ahmed

Journal of Chemistry and Material Sciences (JCMS) · 2025

Industrial wastewater coming from numerous industries is the major source of water pollution. Wastewater contains heavy metals, organic and inorganic contaminants, and insoluble materials. This contaminant poses a serious hazard to the environment. Removal of these pollutants requires innovative and novel methods and technologies. The treatment of wastewater can be done in a variety of ways. There are several techniques available, including adsorption, coagulation, and activated sludge. Water treatment also uses inexpensive adsorbents. A number of Nano-materials have been considered for use as potential pollutant removal candidates in recent years. For elimination of heavy metal, conventional methods include chemical precipitation, ion exchange, adsorption, the ion floatation, electrochemistry as well as coagulation/flocculation. Despite these advantages, however, these methods have some serious disadvantages. In addition to photo catalysis, electro dialysis, and membrane separation techniques, new adsorbents have been introduced to improve adsorption. Fenton processes for treating real industrial wastewater are critically reviewed in this article. To reduce contaminants in wastewater, this paper discusses possible wastewater treatment techniques.

Per Halkjær Nielsen

Microbial Biotechnology · 2017

Summary Microbial biotechnology is essential for the development of circular economy in wastewater treatment by integrating energy production and resource recovery into the production of clean water. A comprehensive knowledge about identity, physiology, ecology, and population dynamics of process‐critical microorganisms will improve process stability, reduce CO2 footprints, optimize recovery and bioenergy production, and help finding new approaches and solutions. Examples of research needs and perspectives are provided, demonstrating the great importance of microbial biotechnology.

Muhammad Taqi Mehran, Mutawara Mahmood M Baig

ECS Meeting Abstracts · 2019

2D transition metal carbides and nitrides, known as MXenes, are an emerging class of 2D materials with a wide spectrum of potential applications, due to their unique layered structure, high surface area, remarkable chemical stability, and electrical conductivity for energy storage. The hydrophilicity of MXenes combined with their metallic conductivity and surface redox reactions is the key for high-rate pseudocapacitive energy storage in MXene electrodes. However, the low capacity of MXene electrodes limits their further application in ECs. In this study we developed the electrode materials comprised of titanium carbide MXene (Ti 3 C 2 Tx) decorated with MWCNTs and Metal Sulfide, which are both 2D layered materials that contribute to the fast ion diffusion in the interdigitated electrode architecture. The nanocomposite samples have been characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. Due to the synergistic effect between Metal sulfide and Ti3C2 matrix, the nanocomposite exhibits a superior capacitance and shows excellent cycling stability with capacitance up to several hundred cycles. These results show that pseudocapacitive MXene based negative electrodes exhibits excellent properties in asymmetric electrochemical capacitors, leading to an increased energy density.

Majid Mirzaee, Changiz Dehghanian

Acta Metallurgica Slovaca · 2018

The applicability of nickel-copper metallic foams as a current collector was investigated for supercapacitor. A comprehensive characterization of Ni-Cu based foam was studied and the analysis of their structural, chemical, and electrochemical properties was evaluated. Structural characteristics and electrochemical methods were used to examine the surface morphology, and surface-chemical composition of the materials. The foams deposited at the time deposition of 180s exhibited dual-porosities (macro and mesopores) with pores ranging from13 to16 μm and the branch size ranged from 25 to 50 nm. Ni-Cu foam electrodes are employed as current collector for supercapacitor. Their usefulness as current collector was evaluated by well-defined experimental conditions using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and galvanostatic charge and discharge (GCD) techniques. The outcome of these experiments demonstrated that the Ni-Cu foams which was synthesized at the time deposition of 180s had pseudocapacitive behavior. The best value for specific capacitance which was calculated from GCD was (536 F/g at 1 mA/cm2) for the Ni-Cu foams deposited at 2 A/cm2 for 180 s. The Ni-Cu foam sustained a current density of 15 mA/cm2 after 2000 cycles without significant loss of supercapacitor activity.

Samuel Danquah

Atlas Journal of Materials Science · 2020

Li2FeMn3O8 (LFMO) nanocomposite material for Li-ion battery is synthesized using chemical combustion method. To fabricate a hybrid nanostructure electrode, LFMO is coated on tin oxide (SnO2) nanorods (NR), which is grown using a vapor-liquid solid (VLS) technique on a steel substrate. The surface morphology of the hybrid nanostructure electrode confirms that, single crystalline SnO2 nanorods are grown vertically with spine-like structures, a few microns in length, as evident from field emission scanning electron microscope image. The electrochemical performance of SnO2/LFMO shows very interesting characteristic with enormous charge storage capability. The coin cell shows improved capacity with a higher number of charging and discharging cycles. This SnO2/LFMO hybrid composite electrode shows better specific capacitance value as compared to the pristine SnO2 electrode.

Jana Šefčovičová, Jan Tkac

Chemical Papers · 2015

Abstract Microbial cell biosensors, where cells are in direct connection with a transducer enabling quantitative and qualitative detection of an analyte, are very promising analytical tools applied mainly for assays in the environmental field, food industry or biomedicine. Microbial cell biosensors are an excellent alternative to conventional analytical methods due to their specificity, rapid detection and low cost of analysis. Nowadays, nanomaterials are often used in the construction of biosensors to improve their sensitivity and stability. In this review, the combination of microbial and other individual cells with different nanomaterials (carbon nanotubes, graphene, gold nanoparticles, etc.) for the construction of biosensors is described and their applications are provided as well.

Amit Narayanbhai Patel

Trends in Sciences · 2021

The main objective of this work is to optimize the power density of axial flux permanent magnet brushless dc (PMBLDC) motor based on genetic algorithm (GA) technique for performance improvement of electric 2-wheeler. Power density is one of the important performance parameter of motor as it significantly influences overall performance of electric 2-wheeler. Firstly, the rating of electric motor is determined according to the application requirements and vehicular dynamics. Axial flux PMBLDC motor of 250 W, 150 rpm is designed to fit in to the rim of electric 2-wheeler based on assumption of various design variables. The salient contribution of this work is to suggest the best combination of design variables with the application of GA optimization technique for power density optimization. Comparative performance analysis is carried out between initially designed motor and optimized motor. Finally, 3 dimensional (3-D) finite element analysis (FEA) is performed to verify the results obtained from design optimization. Results obtained from FEA fairly validates the initial design and optimized design. It is analyzed that the power density of motor is enhanced by 42.85 % with the proposed optimization technique. The proposed technique is implementable and complexity free. It may further be applied to the performance improvement of a non-linear design comprising different design variables.
 HIGHLIGHTS
 
 Axial flux permanent magnet motors are the most compatible in electric vehicle applications
 Power density is one of the important performance parameters of axial flux permanent magnet motors
 Optimization of power density improves drive range and overall performance of electric vehicle
 Influential design variables are identified based on parametric analysis and its optimization is carried out with an GA based optimization technique with an objective of power density optimization
 Proposed optimization technique is validated with finite element analysis
 
 GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Yang-Hsin Fan

Energies · 2020

Many embedded systems are implemented for healthcare, and smart homes and spaces. These devices are generally designed for elderly care, for monitoring, surveillance, and collection information. As embedded systems are ubiquitous and pervasive in a smart home, office, or space, different layout affects not only reduce the implementation cost but also the power density of electromagnetic waves. This study aimed to develop a multiple-embedded-system optimization layout to consume less electromagnetic wave power density and gain better communication strength. For smart offices, we analyzed the layout topology of n-shaped and n-shaped with door layout categories. On the basis of the location of each embedded system in a communication center via an n-shaped layout, we investigated the electromagnetic wave effect to the local, direct, and semidirect effects. Indirect and subindirect effects were also studied in the n-shaped layout with a door. In addition, we derived a set of formulas from the scope for the diverse effects to help users to quickly identify the scope of each effect. To verify the multiple-embedded-system optimization layout, 16 cooperating embedded systems with four test cases in a smart office were used to evaluate the diverse effects of electromagnetic wave power density and communication strength. Experiment results showed that the optimization layout consumed 3950 × 10−6 W/m2 electromagnetic wave power density.

M. Millinger, F. Hedenus, E. Zeyen et al.

Nature Energy · 2025

Biomass is a versatile renewable energy source with applications across the energy system, but it is a limited resource and its usage needs prioritization. We use a sector-coupled European energy system model to explore near-optimal solutions for achieving emissions targets. We find that provision of biogenic carbon has higher value than bioenergy provision. Energy system costs increase by 20% if biomass is excluded at a net-negative (−110%) emissions target and by 14% at a net-zero target. Dispatchable bioelectricity covering ~1% of total electricity generation strengthens supply reliability. Otherwise, it is not crucial in which sector biomass is used, if combined with carbon capture to enable negative emissions and feedstock for e-fuel production. A shortage of renewable electricity or hydrogen supply primarily increases the value of using biomass for fuel production. Results are sensitive to upstream emissions of biomass, carbon sequestration capacity and costs of direct air capture.