Recycling

11 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rural Urban Nutrient Partnership (RUN): Life Cycle Assessment of Multi Nutrient Recovery from Kitchen Waste and Blackwater

by Heinz Stichnothe, Ben Joseph, Volker Preyl and Carsten Meyer

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020031 - 17 Apr 2024

Viewed by 562

Abstract

Newly developed and innovative RUN technology aims to recover nutrients from urban wastewater (blackwater) and biowaste (kitchen waste). The development of RUN technology has been supported by the life cycle assessment (LCA) in order to identify hotspots and trade-offs. While the performance of [...] Read more.

Newly developed and innovative RUN technology aims to recover nutrients from urban wastewater (blackwater) and biowaste (kitchen waste). The development of RUN technology has been supported by the life cycle assessment (LCA) in order to identify hotspots and trade-offs. While the performance of the process at a laboratory scale did not show any environmental benefits from P recovery, the LCA results have helped to improve the environmental performance at the following scale-up step. The recovery of P on a technical scale was environmentally beneficial, especially in terms of the global warming potential (GWP). However, there were still some trade-offs, e.g., freshwater and marine eutrophication were slightly higher compared to conventional P fertilizer production. Given that P is considered a critical raw material and that climate change is probably the most pressing environmental issue, RUN technology has the potential to deliver on both domains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reuse of Wastewater: Recovery of Water, Nutrients, and Energy—2nd Edition)

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28 pages, 1702 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview of the Current Trends in Marine Plastic Litter Management for a Sustainable Development

by Maria Râpă, Elfrida M. Cârstea, Anca A. Șăulean, Cristina L. Popa, Ecaterina Matei, Andra M. Predescu, Cristian Predescu, Simona I. Donțu and Alexandra G. Dincă

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020030 - 09 Apr 2024

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Abstract

This review summarizes recent data related to the management of marine plastic litter to promote sustainable development. It discusses the distribution and identification of marine plastic litter, assesses the potential socio-economic and environmental impacts of these pollutants, and explores their recovery strategies, from [...] Read more.

This review summarizes recent data related to the management of marine plastic litter to promote sustainable development. It discusses the distribution and identification of marine plastic litter, assesses the potential socio-economic and environmental impacts of these pollutants, and explores their recovery strategies, from a circular economy perspective. The main findings indicate that the majority of marine plastic litter originates from land-based sources. Current technologies and approaches for valorizing marine plastic litter include mechanical and chemical recycling, blockchain technologies by providing traceability, verification, efficiency and transparency throughout the recycling process, and public awareness programs and education. The developed policies to prevent marine plastic litter emphasize regulations and initiatives focused toward reducing plastic use and improving plastic waste management. By adopting a holistic and sustainable approach, it is possible to mitigate the environmental impact of marine plastic debris while simultaneously creating economic opportunities. Full article

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16 pages, 4257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of a Commercial Few-Layer Graphene on the Photodegradation Resistance of a Waste Polyolefins Stream and Prime Polyolefin Blends

by S. M. Nourin Sultana, Emna Helal, Giovanna Gutiérrez, Eric David, Nima Moghimian and Nicole R. Demarquette

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020029 - 09 Apr 2024

Viewed by 836

Abstract

This work investigated the photostabilizing role of a commercially available few-layer graphene (FLG) in mixed polyolefins waste stream (MPWS), ensuring extended lifespan for outdoor applications. The investigation was conducted by analyzing carbonyl content increase, surface appearance, and the retention of mechanical properties of [...] Read more.

This work investigated the photostabilizing role of a commercially available few-layer graphene (FLG) in mixed polyolefins waste stream (MPWS), ensuring extended lifespan for outdoor applications. The investigation was conducted by analyzing carbonyl content increase, surface appearance, and the retention of mechanical properties of UV-exposed MPWS/FLG composites. Despite the likely predegraded condition of MPWS, approximately 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90% of the original ductility was retained in composites containing 1, 4, 7, and 10 wt.% FLG, respectively. Conversely, just 20% of the original ductility was retained in unfilled MPWS. Additionally, less crack density and lower carbonyl concentrations of the composites also highlighted the photoprotection effect of FLG. For prime polyolefin blends, only 0.5 wt.% or 1 wt.% FLG was sufficient to preserve the original surface finishing and protect the mechanical properties from photodegradation. Hence, it was observed that MPWS requires more FLG than prime polyolefin blends to get to comparable property retention. This could be attributed to the poor dispersion of FLG in MPWS and inevitable uncertainties such as the presence of impurities, pre-degradation, and polydispersity associated with MPWS. This study outlines a potential approach to revalorize MPWS that possess a minimal intrinsic value and would otherwise be destined for landfill disposal. Full article

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20 pages, 5661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Sustainable Solution with Improved Chemical Resilience Using Repurposed Glass Fibers for Sewage Rehabilitation Pipes

by Devanand Chelot, Shivnarain Ravichandran and Priyank Upadhyaya

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020028 - 31 Mar 2024

Viewed by 756

Abstract

This paper introduces a sustainable sewage rehabilitation solution, utilizing repurposed glass fibers for enhanced chemical resilience and environmental conservation. The approach involves dividing a unitary pipe into segments, assembled during commissioning, aiming to reduce installation and transportation costs, particularly in less accessible areas. [...] Read more.

This paper introduces a sustainable sewage rehabilitation solution, utilizing repurposed glass fibers for enhanced chemical resilience and environmental conservation. The approach involves dividing a unitary pipe into segments, assembled during commissioning, aiming to reduce installation and transportation costs, particularly in less accessible areas. Each pipe segment comprises a multi-layered glass fiber composite sandwich, joined by an adhesive reinforced with recycled glass fibers. The glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) pipe features a core of blended sand impregnated with resin, an outer layer for impact resistance, and an inner layer to prevent corrosion. Chemical resilience is assessed through a 10,000 h strain corrosion study exposing both unitary and two-piece circular GFRP pipes to sulfuric acid in a deflected condition. An apparent hoop tensile test evaluates mechanical integrity before and after exposure. The experimental results reveal that the two-piece pipe with a tongue and groove joint (TGJ) with recycled glass fiber adhesive exhibits superior long-term bending stress and failure strain % compared to unitary pipes. This enhancement is attributed to the TGJ’s improved load-bearing capability and chemical resistance. The failure strain % of the two-piece pipe (1.697%) is higher compared to the unitary pipe (1.2613%). The long-term bending stress of the two-piece pipe obtained is 119.94 MPa whereas the unitary pipe reaches 93.48 MPa at the 50-year mark. The cost analysis supports the adoption of the two-piece pipe over unitary pipes due to a 40% reduction in carbon emissions and transportation cost. The novelty lies in the utilization of multi-piece pipes with enhanced chemical resilience, achieved through the incorporation of milled fiberglass reinforcements in the TGJ. Strain corrosion tests take a long time to perform; hence, an accelerated test is needed to improve the current recommended testing standard. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management in Eco-Materials, Industrial Residues and Construction and Demolition Waste)

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17 pages, 2054 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blue Circular Economy—Reuse and Valorization of Bivalve Shells: The Case of Algarve, Portugal

by Fernanda Caroline Magalhães, Poliana Bellei, Inês Flores-Colen and Eduarda Marques da Costa

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020027 - 30 Mar 2024

Viewed by 659

Abstract

The Circular Economy emerges as an alternative to reinvent the linear production model (take–make–waste), focusing on reintegrating waste into the production cycle, and aiming to minimize both environmental disposal and the unrestrained extraction of raw materials. In this context, the concept of Blue [...] Read more.

The Circular Economy emerges as an alternative to reinvent the linear production model (take–make–waste), focusing on reintegrating waste into the production cycle, and aiming to minimize both environmental disposal and the unrestrained extraction of raw materials. In this context, the concept of Blue Economy arises, an approach centered on preserving and valorizing marine and coastal resources. This article aims to develop a model for the circuit of bivalve shells, emphasizing the transformation of the residues into new products and identifying how these processes affect sociocultural, economic, and environmental dimensions. The methodology involved the surveying of local stakeholders directly involved in bivalve production and consumption to identify the relationship of these stakeholders with the production, marketing, and disposal of bivalves. It is concluded that biowaste has potential, and there is interest among local stakeholders in reusing it, but a lack of knowledge and connection among stakeholders ultimately leads to the devaluation of the product. The circuit of bivalves is necessary to identify value, propose correct collection, and stimulate interest in their reuse, both by other industries and by the aquaculture industry itself. Exploring the potential for reusing bivalves and mitigating their waste, as well as preventing improper disposal, could drive the development of the Blue Circular Economy in coastal regions. Full article

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18 pages, 7788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Structural Vibro-Compressed Concrete Incorporating Industrial Wastes

by Gabriela Bertazzi Pignotti, Ana Mafalda Matos and Fernanda Giannotti da Silva Ferreira

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020026 - 25 Mar 2024

Viewed by 764

Abstract

This study presents more eco-efficient concrete formulations for precast vibro-compressed masonry blocks. The proposed formulations incorporated industrial waste, glass powder (GP), and quartz powder (QP), in which natural aggregate was partially replaced by QP (10%) and Portland cement by GP (10% and 20%). [...] Read more.

This study presents more eco-efficient concrete formulations for precast vibro-compressed masonry blocks. The proposed formulations incorporated industrial waste, glass powder (GP), and quartz powder (QP), in which natural aggregate was partially replaced by QP (10%) and Portland cement by GP (10% and 20%). The best combination of powder materials, water, and admixture was optimised at mortar level, considering a “zero slump” criteria and compressive strength. Afterwards, studies at concrete level followed. Specimens were vibrated and compressed in laboratory and immediately demoulded, aiming to simulate the industrial process. The compressive strength decreased when GP and QP were used alone; however, when combining 10% GP as cement replacement + 10% QP as fine aggregate replacement, the compressive strength increased by approximately 26.6% compared to the reference concrete. Water absorption results varied between 8.92 and 17.9%, and the lowest absorption was obtained by concrete specimens incorporating 20% GP. The UPV presented a narrow range of variation among all concrete mixtures under study, around 2–2.5 km/s at 28 days, whereas electrical resistivity was achieved at 28 days, at 20,000 and 25,000 ohms. Although there were some limitations of the casting process at the laboratory scale, the research results showed promising results, and it seems feasible to use this waste as a substitute for non-renewable raw materials in the production of concrete on an industrial scale. This can provide added value to abundant local wastes while contributing to a circular concrete economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management in Eco-Materials, Industrial Residues and Construction and Demolition Waste)

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28 pages, 754 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unlocking the Potential of Agrifood Waste for Sustainable Innovation in Agriculture

by Monica Voss, Carlotta Valle, Emanuela Calcio Gaudino, Silvia Tabasso, Claudio Forte and Giancarlo Cravotto

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020025 - 20 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1201

Abstract

The United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP’s) Food Waste Index Report 2021 highlights a global annual food waste of 1 billion tons. The UNEP plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, which aims to halve per capita global food waste [...] Read more.

The United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP’s) Food Waste Index Report 2021 highlights a global annual food waste of 1 billion tons. The UNEP plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3, which aims to halve per capita global food waste (FW) at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains globally by 2030. On the other hand, the agricultural sector faces the challenge of increasing productivity to feed the world’s growing population while reducing the environmental impact on ecosystems and human health. In this context, the conversion of agri-food waste (AFW) into biocides, bio-based fertilizers (BBFs) and biostimulants could represent a successful approach to tackle all these issues. This review shows the latest findings on the different sources of AFW and the application of their bioactive compounds in agriculture. Increasing crop yields and improving plant physiology through the utilization of AFW-derived value products aligns with a circular economy approach, bolstering people’s confidence in managing food waste for improved food production. Full article

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11 pages, 983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Framework for Developing a National Research Strategy for Water Reuse

by Arkalgud Ramaprasad and Thant Syn

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020024 - 16 Mar 2024

Viewed by 826

Abstract

Water reuse is critical to national development, sustenance, and survival in this era of climate, demographic, and social changes. There is no systemic national approach to systematically addressing this challenge. This paper presents a framework and method to develop a national research strategy [...] Read more.

Water reuse is critical to national development, sustenance, and survival in this era of climate, demographic, and social changes. There is no systemic national approach to systematically addressing this challenge. This paper presents a framework and method to develop a national research strategy for water reuse. It presents an ontology of water reuse strategies that encapsulates the combinatorial complexity of the problem clearly, concisely, and comprehensively. Subsequently, it discusses the method to use the framework to develop a national strategy, adapt it through feedback and learning, and ultimately effect a revolutionary change in the strategy for water reuse. Full article

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14 pages, 1780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Performance Evaluation of GGBS-Based Geopolymer Concrete Activated by a Rice Husk Ash-Synthesised Sodium Silicate Solution and Sodium Hydroxide

by Jonathan Oti, Blessing O. Adeleke, Prageeth R. Mudiyanselage and John Kinuthia

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020023 - 14 Mar 2024

Viewed by 881

Abstract

Commercial sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (SS) are commonly used as alkaline activators in geopolymer concrete production despite concerns about their availability and associated CO₂ emissions. This study employs an alternative alkaline activator (AA) synthesized from a sodium silicate alternative (SSA) [...] Read more.

Commercial sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (SS) are commonly used as alkaline activators in geopolymer concrete production despite concerns about their availability and associated CO₂ emissions. This study employs an alternative alkaline activator (AA) synthesized from a sodium silicate alternative (SSA) solution derived from rice husk ash (RHA) and a 10 M sodium hydroxide solution. The initial phase established an optimal water-to-binder (W/B) ratio of 0.50, balancing workability and structural performance. Subsequent investigations explored the influence of the alkali/precursor (A/P) ratio on geopolymer concrete properties. A control mix uses ordinary Portland cement (OPC), while ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS)-based geopolymer concrete—GPC mixes (GPC1, GPC2, GPC3, GPC4) vary the A/P ratios (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8) with a 1:1 ratio of sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide (SS: SH). The engineering performance was evaluated through a slump test, and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and tensile splitting (TS) tests in accordance with the appropriate standards. The geopolymer mixes, excluding GPC3, offer suitable workability; UCS and TS, though lower than the control mix, peak at an A/P ratio of 0.4. Despite lower mechanical strength than OPC, geopolymers’ environmental benefits make them a valuable alternative. GPC2, with a 0.4 A/P ratio and 0.5 W/B (water to binder) ratio, is recommended for balanced workability and structural performance. Future research should focus on enhancing the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete for sustainable, high-performance mixtures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Materials from Waste and Renewable Sources)

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15 pages, 5272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measurements of the Permeability Coefficient of Waste Coal Ash under Hydrostatic Pressure to Identify the Feasibility of Its Use in Construction

by Barbara Dutka, Katarzyna Godyń, Przemysław Skotniczny, Katarzyna Tokarczyk and Maciej Tram

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020022 - 04 Mar 2024

Viewed by 965

Abstract

The aim of this research was to measure the filtration properties of waste coal ash under the influence of hydrostatic pressure generated in a three-axial compression apparatus. The scope of work included determining the compactibility parameters, maximum bulk density and optimal moisture content. [...] Read more.

The aim of this research was to measure the filtration properties of waste coal ash under the influence of hydrostatic pressure generated in a three-axial compression apparatus. The scope of work included determining the compactibility parameters, maximum bulk density and optimal moisture content. Permeability tests were performed for a sample with an average grain composition at three compaction indices

I_{S}

: 0.964, 0.98 and 1.00. The hydrostatic pressure ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 bar corresponded to the layer depths from 2.17 to 7.83 m. Gradually increasing the pressure during the first loading cycle caused irreversible changes in the structure of the sample by local material agglomeration or grain interlocking. The water permeability coefficient was higher in the second loading cycle than in the first cycle. It was shown that waste coal ash cannot be used as a construction material on its own. To obtain constant filtration properties, the waste coal ash material should be doped, or an optimal compactionshould be used (

I_{S}

= 1.00). The results presented in this study are important for assessing the use of waste coal ash for construction engineering purposes. Full article

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16 pages, 2714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Sodium Hydroxide and Sodium Carbonate as Alkali Catalysts in Ethanol Organosolv Treatment of Cotton Stalks for the Release of Hydroxycinnamates

by Georgia Papadimitriou, Vassiliki Zarnavalou, Theodoros Chatzimitakos, Dimitrios Palaiogiannis, Vassilis Athanasiadis, Stavros I. Lalas and Dimitris P. Makris

Recycling 2024, 9(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9020021 - 01 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1076

Abstract

Cotton stalks are residual biomass resulting from cotton bud harvesting, and they are composed primarily of lignocellulosic material. This material could be a source of functional polyphenols. To investigate this prospect, this study was undertaken with the view to examining whether an ethanol-based [...] Read more.

Cotton stalks are residual biomass resulting from cotton bud harvesting, and they are composed primarily of lignocellulosic material. This material could be a source of functional polyphenols. To investigate this prospect, this study was undertaken with the view to examining whether an ethanol-based organosolv treatment could be suitable for producing extracts enriched in polyphenolic compounds. To this end, alkali catalysis was employed, and two catalysts, sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate, were tested. The initial approach based on treatment severity showed that both catalysts may be equally effective in the recovery of polyphenols, yet in most cases studied, no clear trend between treatment severity and total polyphenol yield was recorded. The following study, based on response surface methodology, provided optimized conditions for both treatments, sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate, where the recommended catalyst concentrations were 0.67 and 4%, respectively. Under a constant temperature of 90 °C and residence time of 300 min, the treatments with sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate afforded total polyphenol yields of 18.4 ± 1 and 15.6 ± 1.9 mg CAE g⁻¹ DM, respectively, which showed no significant statistical difference (p > 0.05). However, high-performance liquid chromatography analyses revealed that the sodium carbonate-catalyzed treatment produced extract particularly enriched in two hydroxycinnamate derivatives, ferulic and p-coumaric acid. This extract also exhibited increased antioxidant activity. The outcome of this study strongly suggests cotton stalks as a bioresource of functional substances, while mild alkali-catalyzed ethanol organosolv treatment appears to be a very promising technique for effectively delivering hydroxycinnamate-enriched extracts. Full article

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Recycling, Volume 9, Issue 2 (April 2024) – 11 articles

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