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1 pages, 173 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Giancarlo Cravotto, Dariusz Dziki and Krist V. Gernaey

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2023037126 - 20 Oct 2023

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Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Engineering Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

2 pages, 150 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes (ECP 2023)

by Giancarlo Cravotto, Dariusz Dziki and Krist V. Gernaey

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2023037127 - 19 Feb 2024

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Abstract

The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends (ECP 2023) was hosted online from 17 to 31 May 2023 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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6 pages, 1273 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Co-Pyrolysis of Waste Polystyrene Foam and Microalgae at Low Temperatures

by Ebru Gizem Ormanci, Gamze Ozcakir and Ali Karaduman

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14608 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 523

Abstract

Fossil fuel reserves have depleted. Therefore, renewable and sustainable energy forms an important issue. Microalgae as a third-generation biomass can be an alternative carbon-neutral fuel source. However, its fuel quality is low. Co-pyrolysis is an important technique to upgrade the fuel quality of [...] Read more.

Fossil fuel reserves have depleted. Therefore, renewable and sustainable energy forms an important issue. Microalgae as a third-generation biomass can be an alternative carbon-neutral fuel source. However, its fuel quality is low. Co-pyrolysis is an important technique to upgrade the fuel quality of microalgae. In this study, we aimed to carry out the pyrolysis of polystyrene and Spirulina sp. microalgae at low temperatures (350, 400, and 450 °C). The experiments were conducted using a semi-batch reactor setup. Co-pyrolytic product yields were calculated. The composition of liquid products was enlightened by using GC-MS. As a result of the analysis, aromatic compounds like styrene and toluene were detected in the co-pyrolytic liquid. Moreover, it was observed that co-pyrolysis increased the solid residue yield while it decreased the liquid and gas product yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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6 pages, 1140 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of the Decarbonization Pathways of the Cement Industry in Uzbekistan

by Zafar Turakulov, Azizbek Kamolov, Abror Turakulov, Adham Norkobilov and Marcos Fallanza

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14639 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 740

Abstract

Cement production is one of the key industries responsible for emissions of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide (CO₂), which influence climate change. In order to reach zero carbon in the cement industry, various deep decarbonization pathways involving carbon capture, storage, and [...] Read more.

Cement production is one of the key industries responsible for emissions of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide (CO₂), which influence climate change. In order to reach zero carbon in the cement industry, various deep decarbonization pathways involving carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCSU), using low-carbon material and fuel, optimal process control, and waste heat utilization techniques must be implemented. As for the example of Uzbekistan, approximately 30 facilities generate more than 15 Mt of cement annually and are responsible for 11.3% of the country’s total CO₂ emissions. In this study, decarbonization pathways for cement plants in Uzbekistan, including CCSU, the use of alternative fuels, electrification, and waste heat integration techniques, are compared based on existing challenges and opportunities. The availability of alternative fuel and material resources suitable for the total production capacity, the comparison of post-combustion, pre-combustion, and oxyfuel combustion CCSU methods for the cement plant, and the use of energy-efficient technologies are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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4 pages, 651 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Gas Holdup Distribution in a Coaxial Mixer Containing Yield-Pseudoplastic Fluids: Effect of Biopolymer Concentration

by Paloma L. Barros, Farhad Ein-Mozaffari and Ali Lohi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14660 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

The performance of gas-liquid mixing processes in agitated vessels is commonly measured by the degree of gas dispersion, and local measurements of this parameter can provide a more accurate description of the mixing, especially for non-Newtonian fluids. For instance, the fluid flow of [...] Read more.

The performance of gas-liquid mixing processes in agitated vessels is commonly measured by the degree of gas dispersion, and local measurements of this parameter can provide a more accurate description of the mixing, especially for non-Newtonian fluids. For instance, the fluid flow of complex yield-pseudoplastic solutions is highly affected by the local shear stress, leading to a non-homogeneous air distribution throughout the mixing vessel. Coaxial mixers have demonstrated energy-efficient characteristics for non-Newtonian fluids that improve mixing homogeneity due to the independent rotation of a central impeller and a close-clearance impeller. Therefore, this work aims to investigate the axial profile of the local gas holdup in a PBT-anchor coaxial mixer containing xanthan gum solutions, which is a biopolymer widely utilized as an emulsion stabilizer, dispersing agent, and thickener. The rheological behavior of the solutions was described by the Herschel-Bulkley model, and the effect of the xanthan gum concentration on the gas holdup distribution was analyzed. Electrical resistance tomography (ERT) was employed to obtain the gas holdup from the conductivity measurements of the mixture in each of the four horizontal planes. Results show that the gas holdup increased downward for all solutions, and a lower xanthan gum concentration reduced the non-homogeneity in gas distribution and the overall gas volume fraction. In contrast, higher xanthan gum concentrations enhanced gas holdup in high shear stress regions while weakening air dispersion distant from those regions due to higher viscous forces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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5 pages, 987 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Hydrodynamics and Gas Hold-Up of a Gas–Liquid Coaxial Mixing System at Different Scales Containing a Non-Newtonian Fluid

by Ali Rahimzadeh, Farhad Ein-Mozaffari and Ali Lohi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14642 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 377

Abstract

The gas–liquid mixing phenomenon that occurs in a mixing tank containing a non-Newtonian fluid is an important process in many industrial applications, such as chemical and biochemical processing. The design and optimization of an aerated mixing tank with such characteristics is a challenging [...] Read more.

The gas–liquid mixing phenomenon that occurs in a mixing tank containing a non-Newtonian fluid is an important process in many industrial applications, such as chemical and biochemical processing. The design and optimization of an aerated mixing tank with such characteristics is a challenging task. Most of these challenges are due to the non-Newtonian behavior of the fluid, which can lead to compartmentalization of the mixing tank and the formation of oxygen-segregated zones. These issues become more pronounced at larger scales. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to identify the mixing dead zones and determine their impact on the overall mixing process in a coaxial mixing system at two different scales. This research focused on the evaluation of the hydrodynamics attained by a coaxial gas–liquid mixing tank through numerical and experimental methods. The study was conducted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the electrical resistance tomography (ERT) method. The effects of the aeration rate, inner impeller speed, and rotating mode on the creation of dead zones were investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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4 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimization of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for the Encapsulation of Carotenoids from Cucurbita moschata Pulp

by Nicola Pinna, Francesca Blasi and Aurélie Schoubben

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14737 - 30 May 2023

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Abstract

This work aimed to optimize the production of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for the future encapsulation of carotenoid-rich extracts obtained from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) pulp by ultrasound-assisted extraction. The extracts were characterized by in vitro spectrophotometric assays and by high-performance liquid [...] Read more.

This work aimed to optimize the production of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for the future encapsulation of carotenoid-rich extracts obtained from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) pulp by ultrasound-assisted extraction. The extracts were characterized by in vitro spectrophotometric assays and by high-performance liquid chromatography, coupled with a diode array detector. Hot high-pressure homogenization was the method selected for SLN production, and β-carotene was used as a model molecule for optimization. This choice was supported by chemical–analytical characterization, which identified β-carotene as the main carotenoid of the pumpkin extracts. SLN loaded with 1% β-carotene showed dimensions compatible with increased intestinal absorption. Furthermore, antioxidant assay results showed that the technological process did not alter the antioxidant capacity of β-carotene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

5 pages, 1066 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysis of Local Shear Rate Distribution in a Double Coaxial Bioreactor Containing Biopolymer Solutions Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

by Forough Sharifi, Ehsan Behzadfar and Farhad Ein-Mozaffari

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14646 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

Uniform gas dispersion and shear distribution in highly viscous non-Newtonian fluids are challenging due to the complex rheological behavior exhibited by this type of medium. In addition, most large-scale bioreactors used in biochemical processes such as wastewater treatment and fermentation demand higher aspect [...] Read more.

Uniform gas dispersion and shear distribution in highly viscous non-Newtonian fluids are challenging due to the complex rheological behavior exhibited by this type of medium. In addition, most large-scale bioreactors used in biochemical processes such as wastewater treatment and fermentation demand higher aspect ratios (i.e., fluid height to tank diameter ratio) than laboratory-scale bioreactors. This, in turn, underlines uneven gas and shear distribution throughout the bioreactor, especially those comprising yield-pseudoplastic fluids. For this type of fluid, there are two distinct zones within the bioreactor: a higher-shear zone with a lower apparent viscosity around the impeller and a lower-shear area with a higher apparent viscosity away from the impeller. Due to the viscosity gradient, homogeneous gas dispersion within a single impeller aerated bioreactor with an aspect ratio of more than one is hard to attain. It has been reported that a well-designed mixing configuration contributes to maintaining a consistent fluid viscosity, resulting in improved mixing performance and consistent final product quality. Recent studies have demonstrated the superior performance of double coaxial bioreactors furnished with two central impellers and one anchor for uniform shear distribution and gas dispersion in pseudoplastic fluids. Despite the widespread use of yield-pseudoplastic fluids in various industries, a knowledge gap was identified for analyzing the shear distribution within the double coaxial mixers containing pseudoplastic fluids possessing yield stress. This study examined the effect of four coaxial mixing configurations, including down-pumping and co-rotating, up-pumping and co-rotating modes, down-pumping and counter-rotating, and up-pumping and up-pumping and up-pumping and counter-rotating modes, on the local shear rate distribution. In this regard, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was employed for the evaluation of the local shear distribution within the coaxial bioreactor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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8 pages, 1484 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Photocatalytic Degradation of Malathion Using Hydroxyapatite Derived from Chanos chanos and Pangasius dory Bones

by Allen S. Credo, Mckenneth G. Pascual, Mark Jerome C. Villagracia, Alden D. Villaruz, Erison C. Roque, Edgar Clyde R. Lopez and Rugi Vicente C. Rubi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14618 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

Farmers widely use malathion, even in households, and significant amounts seep through groundwater and effluent wastewater. It is toxic to animal and human life. Hence, its removal from wastewater is necessary. Here, we report the applicability of hydroxyapatite as a catalyst in the [...] Read more.

Farmers widely use malathion, even in households, and significant amounts seep through groundwater and effluent wastewater. It is toxic to animal and human life. Hence, its removal from wastewater is necessary. Here, we report the applicability of hydroxyapatite as a catalyst in the UV-light-assisted degradation of malathion. The hydroxyapatite was synthesized via calcination from milkfish (MF1000) and cream dory (CD1000) bones. FTIR and PXRD results proved the successful synthesis of hydroxyapatite from the fish bones. SEM images revealed that the synthesized hydroxyapatite varies in size from 19 to 52 nm with a pseudo-spherical morphology. Degradation efficiency increases when catalyst dosage or irradiation time are increased. Degradation efficiencies range from 8.18% to 67.80% using MF1000 and from 20.50% to 67.90% using CD1000. Malathion obeys first-order kinetics with a kinetic constant up to 7.0289 × 10⁻³ min⁻¹ for 0.6 g catalyst loading. Meanwhile, malathion obeys second-order kinetics with a kinetic constant up to 1.1946 × 10⁻³ L min⁻¹ mg⁻¹ for 0.6 g loading. Across all catalyst loadings, CD1000 has faster degradation kinetics compared to MF1000. The results of this study validate that the calcined fish bones are effective in removing malathion in an aqueous solution, which significantly lessens the detrimental effects of pesticides in groundwater and wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1353 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Mass-Customised Fashion in a Smart Holistic Wear-Care Business Model

by Laura Tihon and Lisa Weißmann

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14643 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

Fashion is the second largest consumer good and the corresponding industry is highly relevant in the social discourse on the demand, global production routes, use, and recycling of raw materials. To extend the product life cycle, sustainability requires a personal bond to the [...] Read more.

Fashion is the second largest consumer good and the corresponding industry is highly relevant in the social discourse on the demand, global production routes, use, and recycling of raw materials. To extend the product life cycle, sustainability requires a personal bond to the fashion product, as well as high-quality materials and workmanship. Our research scenario uses RFIDs to digitise the service processes. With a personalised customer login, the customer can access all information about the individual product development and possible washing and repair services. The interactive added value creates a personal bond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1385 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Bacterial Growth Ability and PHA Production Using Various Combinations of Fatty Acids

by Young-Cheol Chang and M. Venkateswar Reddy

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14612 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

The present study explains the growth pattern and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production capacity of Bacillus sp. CYR1 as it uses various fatty acids as carbon sources. Various combinations of fatty acids were used for the growth of strain CYR1. Among them, strain CYR1 showed [...] Read more.

The present study explains the growth pattern and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production capacity of Bacillus sp. CYR1 as it uses various fatty acids as carbon sources. Various combinations of fatty acids were used for the growth of strain CYR1. Among them, strain CYR1 showed good growth with the combination of two fatty acids (acetic acid and butyric acid) and the combination of three fatty acids (acetic acid, propionic acid, and caproic acid). Apart from the growth pattern, PHA production was also evaluated. PHA production was in coordination with the growth pattern. Bacteria incubated with the combination of acetic acid–butyric acid produced 0.158 g/L, and acetic acid–propionic acid–caproic acid produced 0.241 g/L of PHA. It is essential to reduce the substrate cost for PHA production by replacing expensive carbon sources with wastewater. The organic compounds in domestic and industrial wastewater contain various fatty acids. By studying different combinations of fatty acids, we gained new insights into utilizing wastewater containing various fatty acids as substrates for PHA production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1230 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Effects of the Interaction between Bacterial Inoculants and Mineral Fertilizers on Spring Barley Yield and Soil Properties

by Justinas Anušauskas, Dainius Steponavičius, Kristina Lekavičienė and Ernestas Zaleckas

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14720 - 25 May 2023

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Abstract

The hypothesis of this study was that complex mineral fertilizer (N₅P_20.5K₃₆) coated with a bacterial inoculant (Paenibacillus azotofixans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus mucilaginosus, and Bacillus mycoides) would have a positive effect on the [...] Read more.

The hypothesis of this study was that complex mineral fertilizer (N₅P_20.5K₃₆) coated with a bacterial inoculant (Paenibacillus azotofixans, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus mucilaginosus, and Bacillus mycoides) would have a positive effect on the agrochemical composition of soil and on the yield of spring barley. Experimental studies were carried out for three years on sandy loam soil using four different treatments: no N₅P_20.5K₃₆ (control), 300 kg ha⁻¹ N₅P_20.5K₃₆ (Tr-1), 150 kg ha⁻¹ N₅P_20.5K₃₆ coated with a bacterial inoculant (Tr-2), and 300 kg ha⁻¹ N₅P_20.5K₃₆ coated with a bacterial inoculant (Tr-3). Based on the research results, we found that bacterial inoculant-enriched fertilizer increased the yield of barley grain without exhausting the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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185 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Sustainable Energy Sector

by Seemant Tiwari

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14609 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1202

Abstract

The power industry is at a point of intersection. Modern technical advances have the potential to drastically alter our electricity supply, trading, and usage. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming the current modernization approach. Big data management, vast computational resources, telecommunications, enhanced machine [...] Read more.

The power industry is at a point of intersection. Modern technical advances have the potential to drastically alter our electricity supply, trading, and usage. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming the current modernization approach. Big data management, vast computational resources, telecommunications, enhanced machine learning, and deep learning techniques have all contributed to the rapid surge in AI technology. Smooth software that improves judgment and management will automatically adjust the merging of electricity supply, usage, and sustainable energy into the electricity network. Supercomputers, power systems, and communications networks between the command center and devices are all part of a smart electricity system. AI is expected to be crucial in attaining the abovementioned capabilities. This research assessed whether artificial intelligence algorithms surpass conventional methods in stability, massive data management, smart grid, energy-saving optimization, and planned maintenance management for renewables. Based on recent findings, it can be concluded that AI will play an essential part in the future energy industry. To obtain better results, the sustainable energy industry, companies, power network administrators, and independent generators of electricity should place more emphasis on AI technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1419 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Thermal Characterization of Biochars Produced in Slow Co-Pyrolysis of Spent Coffee Ground and Concentrated Landfill Leachate Residue

by Ronei de Almeida, Francesco Lanero, Maria Cristina Lavagnolo, Paolo Sgarbossa, Roberta Bertani, Marcelo Mendes Vianna and Juacyara Carbonelli Campos

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14614 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 590

Abstract

Resource depletion and climate change have fostered sustainable initiatives in the waste management sector. Pyrolysis (Py) has emerged as an option for valorizing spent coffee grounds (SCG). In addition, inorganic compounds can have catalytic effects on the pyrolytic reaction of organic materials, increasing [...] Read more.

Resource depletion and climate change have fostered sustainable initiatives in the waste management sector. Pyrolysis (Py) has emerged as an option for valorizing spent coffee grounds (SCG). In addition, inorganic compounds can have catalytic effects on the pyrolytic reaction of organic materials, increasing the char yield and porosity of biochar. This study investigates the slow pyrolysis of SCG using concentrated landfill leachate residue (CLLR) (1:1 wt%) as a pyrolitic additive due to its high salinity. Biochars were characterized based on their thermal behavior to discuss environmental benefits and potential applications. Slow-py experiments were conducted using a lab-scale pyrolizer, and thermal characterization was performed using TA Instruments, specifically the SDTQ600 model. Biochars were characterized by higher water contents and heating rates than those experienced by their feedstocks. It is suggested that the high metal content of CLLR could change the biochar’s thermal stability, decreasing its decomposition temperature. Values were 9.18 wt% and 18.11 MJ kg⁻¹ and 23.25 wt% and 22.05 MJ kg⁻¹ for biochars produced using SCG and SCG and CLLR (1:1 wt%), respectively. Future studies will include biochar ecotoxicity analyses and measure carbon–energy balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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227 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Implications of Machine Learning in Renewable Energy

by Seemant Tiwari

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14610 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 499

Abstract

Artificial neural networks (ANN) are preferred over some other machine learning (ML) techniques due to their extension potential. The requirement for using ML approaches in the renewable energy market is expected to rise significantly in the upcoming decades due to the huge market [...] Read more.

Artificial neural networks (ANN) are preferred over some other machine learning (ML) techniques due to their extension potential. The requirement for using ML approaches in the renewable energy market is expected to rise significantly in the upcoming decades due to the huge market for graduate institutions in research, mathematics, and technology connected to machine learning. The collection of data, administration, and protection are predicted to play critical roles in the effective deployment of ML techniques that may be distributed among the main players in the renewable energy industry, hence fostering the creation of large smart energy schemes. The integration of new techniques for generating accurate data, as well as other pieces of knowledge, will improve the communication of data among ML and networks. Both supervised and unsupervised learning are likely to play important roles in the renewable energy industry; however, this will hinge on the development of certain other significant topics in machine learning, like big data analytics (BDA). Because the renewable energy business is dependent on weather, forecasting is an essential aspect of renewables. Machine learning algorithms aid in the precise prediction of renewables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

6 pages, 1695 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modification and Characterization of Lactoferrin-Iron Free with Methylimidazolium N-ethylamine Ionic Liquid as Potential Drugs Anti SARS-CoV-2

by Ahmed M. Senan, Senem Akkoc and Alariqi Reem

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14701 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

Methylimidazolium N-ethylamine amine (MIE-NH₂) is synthesized successfully with excellent yield in the high performances and green chemical process, using N-methylimidazole and tert-butyl N-(2-bromoethyl) carbamate as starting materials. Following the mechanism of reductive amination, using this ionic liquid as a suitable ligand [...] Read more.

Methylimidazolium N-ethylamine amine (MIE-NH₂) is synthesized successfully with excellent yield in the high performances and green chemical process, using N-methylimidazole and tert-butyl N-(2-bromoethyl) carbamate as starting materials. Following the mechanism of reductive amination, using this ionic liquid as a suitable ligand for modification, N-glycans contain the carbonyl group of the oligosaccharides, and the activity of an ionic liquid is disclosed by mass spectrometric techniques. This work illustrates that methylimidazolium N-ethylamine as an ionic liquid linked to carbohydrates, including N-glycans in lactoferrin and its derivatives, for example, lactoferrin (BL iron free), have been selected as examples of glycoproteins. The detection of profiling linked to oligosaccharides and glycoproteins is performed using UPLC/ESI-QTOF and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Moreover, the ionic synthesis with active amino-group and employed as a multifunctional modification of the oligosaccharide, and using the products as applicable small molecules therapeutics linked to GlcNAc and its derivatives. Modifying glycoproteins by adding IL-MIE-NH₂ has improved ESI ionization efficiency and provided labeling results of N-glycans, even better than 2-AB derivatives. Relevantly, this ionic liquid is applicable as advancement and development in catalytic methods, N-glycosylation, and modification of small molecules as potential drugs against viral and microbial infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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521 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Rational Selection of Transition Metal Co-Dopant in Sulfur-Doped Titanium Dioxide

by Edgar Clyde R. Lopez

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14699 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 742

Abstract

This paper investigates the general trends in the structural, electronic, and optical properties of anatase TiO₂ photocatalysts co-doped with transition metals and sulfur. We attempt to rationalize co-dopant selection by employing molecular dynamics and density functional theory calculations. The structural properties of [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the general trends in the structural, electronic, and optical properties of anatase TiO₂ photocatalysts co-doped with transition metals and sulfur. We attempt to rationalize co-dopant selection by employing molecular dynamics and density functional theory calculations. The structural properties of the first-row transition metal co-dopants were determined. TM-TiO₂ and TM/S-TiO₂ were structurally stable, with minimal changes in their lattice parameters, cell volume, density, and XRD profiles relative to pristine TiO₂. However, only Fe and Mn among the first-row transition metals are thermodynamically favorable, i.e., their substitutional energies are lower relative to pristine TiO₂. Intermediate energy levels (IELs) are formed during the co-doping of transition metals and sulfur on TiO₂. In particular, Fe and Co form two IELs between the VBM and CBM, resulting in improved optical properties, especially in the visible-light region, which are mainly attributed to the unsaturated nonbonding transition metal d orbitals and the half-filled Ti–O bonding orbitals. On the other hand, Cu and Ni form three IELs close to each other due to the M–O anti-bond orbitals, half-filled p orbitals of S, and the Ti–S anti-bonding orbitals. These IELs in co-doped systems can serve as “stepping stones” for photogenerated electrons, facilitating easier charge mobility. Among the investigated co-doped systems, Fe/S-TiO₂ was shown to be the most promising for photocatalytic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1245 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Catalytic Dye Degradation of Textile Dye Methylene Blue by Using Silver Nanoparticles Fabricated by Sustainable Approach

by Pradeep Kumar Pandey, Joy Sarkar and Shivangi Srivastava

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14684 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 736

Abstract

A eco-friendly, cost-effective, sustainable and green approach was used for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles by using a leaf extract of Blumea lacera (Ag@BLE). Silver nanoparticles sized 9–13 nm were characterized by different analytical techniques. The analytical methods utilized were powder X-ray diffraction [...] Read more.

A eco-friendly, cost-effective, sustainable and green approach was used for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles by using a leaf extract of Blumea lacera (Ag@BLE). Silver nanoparticles sized 9–13 nm were characterized by different analytical techniques. The analytical methods utilized were powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The initial synthesis of Ag@BLE nanoparticles was confirmed by UV–visible spectrophotometry and at 429 nm there appeared a sharp surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) band. Organic dye methylene blue (MB) is one of the most abundant pollutants in the water environment. In the presence of catalyst Ag@BLE, the absorbance intensity of cationic MB dye was reduced dramatically by sodium borohydride (NaBH4). Methylene blue’s catalytic dye degradation was tested to determine the effectiveness and function of synthesized Ag@BLE, and the reduction rates were found to be 0.01455 min⁻¹ (0 mg Ag@BLE, 21 min) and 0.03144 min⁻¹ (20 mg Ag@BLE, 24 min). Synthesized Ag@BLE showed rapid and excellent catalytic reduction of MB dye, and it followed pseudo first order kinetics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1387 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Structural Study of Ecofriendly Synthesized Multifunctional Rare Earth Metal Cerium Oxide

by Shivangi Srivastava, Narendra Kumar Pandey and Pradeep Kumar Pandey

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14685 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 484

Abstract

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNPs) are used in chemical mechanical polishing/planarization, corrosion protection, solar cells, fuel oxidation catalysis, automotive exhaust treatment, and sensing. However, their synthesis process increases the likelihood of exposure, potential health effects, and ecological implications. Consequently, it is important to synthesize [...] Read more.

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNPs) are used in chemical mechanical polishing/planarization, corrosion protection, solar cells, fuel oxidation catalysis, automotive exhaust treatment, and sensing. However, their synthesis process increases the likelihood of exposure, potential health effects, and ecological implications. Consequently, it is important to synthesize CeNPs in an environmentally friendly and affordable way to create a better structure. This work discusses the numerous structural properties of CeNPs and is solely concerned with their economical hydrothermal production. To comprehend the shape, FE-SEM was used, which shows the granular-like structure. The elastic characteristics of the material, like Bulk Modulus, was 177 GPa, Sher Modulus was 78 GPa, Poisson’s ratio was 0.32, and some other properties were also determined by using the FTIR spectrum, which also revealed numerous functional groups. The CeO₂ XRD pattern reveals a cubic structure of the space group Fm3m with a density of 6.74 gmcm⁻³, a volume of 158.08 × 10⁶ pm³, a crystallite size of 18.66 nm, a lattice strain of 0.0041, and many other estimated structural characteristics. Rietveld refinement was also performed for the refined parameters that suggest the high quality of structural parameters like R-factors, wR-factor (Rw), and Chi-squared (χ2) and for designing the crystal structure of cerium oxide nanoparticles. When examining the composition and nature of bonding materials, the structural features are of the utmost significance, as they offer a variety of information regarding the subject material’s general qualities. Excellent characteristics of nanomaterials include high chemical and physical stability, low density, and a big surface area. Nanomaterials are preferred options for the creation of brand-new, functioning membranes because of their superior qualities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2348 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fluorescent Tracers for Drill Cuttings Labelling: Compatibility with Oil-Based Drilling Mud, Long-Term Stability, and Possibility of the Recovery

by Vladimir Khmelnitskiy, Hassan S. Alqahtani and Vera Solovyeva

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14686 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 483

Abstract

Tracer testing is a well-established technique in the oil and gas industry. By introducing tracers into drilling fluids, the depth of origin of drill cuttings can be identified. However, the compatibility of fluorescent tracers with oil-based drilling mud, their long-term stability, and the [...] Read more.

Tracer testing is a well-established technique in the oil and gas industry. By introducing tracers into drilling fluids, the depth of origin of drill cuttings can be identified. However, the compatibility of fluorescent tracers with oil-based drilling mud, their long-term stability, and the feasibility of tracer recovery are crucial factors to consider. In this study, we evaluated the possibility of tracer recovery and reuse after four months of exposure to OBM. The hot rolling test mimicking mud and cuttings circulation at the well conditions demonstrated the stability of tracers over the weeks. It was noted that tracers could still be detected visually. Thus, we have developed novel, highly stable fluorescent tags suitable for downhole drill cuttings labeling application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1607 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Kinetic Modeling of Downflow Hanging Sponge (DHS) System Treating Synthetic Domestic Wastewater

by Abdelsalam Zidan, Mona G. Ibrahim, Manabu Fujii and Mahmoud Nasr

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14683 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 604

Abstract

A downflow hanging sponge (DHS) unit was established for treating synthetic domestic wastewater (SDW) for over 100 days of continuous feed. The DHS system was operated at a chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration of 531.62 ± 93.6 mg/L, and different hydraulic retention times [...] Read more.

A downflow hanging sponge (DHS) unit was established for treating synthetic domestic wastewater (SDW) for over 100 days of continuous feed. The DHS system was operated at a chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration of 531.62 ± 93.6 mg/L, and different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) = 6.0–2.0 h to determine the system kinetics. The substrate removal kinetics of the DHS reactor was calculated using modified Stover–Kincannon, Monod, Grau’s second-order and first-order models. The Monod model has the following decay coefficient (K_d), yield coefficient (Y), and maximum specific growth rate of bacteria (μ_max) that were, respectively, 0.0025 1/d, 0.1337 gVSS/gCOD, and 0.0364 1/d. Maximum substrate utilization rate (U_max) and saturation value constant (K_B) for the modified Stover–Kincannon model were determined to be, respectively, 15.46 and 14.45 g/L/d. While the kinetic coefficient for the second-order model ranged was 0.516–0.641 1/d versus 27.627 1/d for the first-order model, the constants of the Grau second-order model (a and b) were estimated as 0.0366 and 0.9215. The Grau second-order and modified Stover–Kincannon models showed an R² value of 0.995, making them the most convenient for the experimental results. The results indicated that these models could be used to predict the DHS reactor behavior at different scales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1562 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Preparation and Catalytic Study of Mn-NaX, Cu-NaX and Ag-/AgNPs-NaX Zeolites

by Borislav Barbov, Katerina Zaharieva, Petya Karakashkova, Hristo Penchev, Liliya Tsvetanova and Silvia Dimova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14649 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 469

Abstract

FAU-type zeolite NaX was successfully prepared using hydrothermal synthesis at 90 °C for 6 h. The Mn- and Cu-ion-exchanged NaX zeolites were obtained. After the ion exchange, the zeolite powders were thermally treated at 300 °C. As well as Ag-ion-exchanged zeolite, NaX and [...] Read more.

FAU-type zeolite NaX was successfully prepared using hydrothermal synthesis at 90 °C for 6 h. The Mn- and Cu-ion-exchanged NaX zeolites were obtained. After the ion exchange, the zeolite powders were thermally treated at 300 °C. As well as Ag-ion-exchanged zeolite, NaX and zeolite were impregnated with two types of Ag nanoparticle dispersions: citrate surface-stabilized (Cit@Ag NPs) and polymer-stabilized (PVP@Ag) nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using the electrochemical reduction method. The changes in the phase and chemical composition and structure of the obtained zeolite powders before and after ion exchange or impregnation were investigated by PXRD analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and XRF analysis. The results show that Mn, Cu-exchanged NaX, and that impregnated with Ag demonstrated catalytic abilities towards ozone decomposition in comparison with pure zeolite (non-catalytic activity). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2122 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing Biopolymer-Based Edible Films with Improved Anti-Microbial Properties

by Katyayani Kashyap, Yamini Sudha Sistla and Shumyla Mehraj

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14655 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 555

Abstract

The food packaging industry is projected to reach a worth of USD 423.27 billion by 2025. Due to the hazardous impact of synthetic polymers on the environment and human and animal health, there is an increasing focus on biopolymer-based edible and biodegradable food [...] Read more.

The food packaging industry is projected to reach a worth of USD 423.27 billion by 2025. Due to the hazardous impact of synthetic polymers on the environment and human and animal health, there is an increasing focus on biopolymer-based edible and biodegradable food packaging films. This study aimed to develop composite films made from polysaccharide (pectin) and protein (gluten) with castor oil as a hydrophobic agent to enhance moisture barrier properties. A statistical 2² factorial design of experiments was employed, with gluten and castor oil percentage chosen as the two factors. All films were evaluated for sensory, moisture barrier, mechanical, surface hydrophobicity, morphological, and biodegradability properties. Films made from 10% w/w gluten and 15% w/w castor oil demonstrated the best moisture barrier and tensile properties. Addition of castor oil enhanced the hydrophobicity and reduced moisture permeability by two times compared to control pectin films. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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636 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Potential of Algae Biofuel as a Renewable and Sustainable Bioresource

by Krishna Neeti, Kumar Gaurav and Reena Singh

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14716 - 19 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4003

Abstract

Algae are promising sources of biofuel. Microalgae’s ability to grow quickly with photosynthesis, carbon dioxide, and nutrients makes them ideal biofuel sources that do not compete for resources with food crops like corn. Algae cultivation on non-arable land allows it to produce biofuel [...] Read more.

Algae are promising sources of biofuel. Microalgae’s ability to grow quickly with photosynthesis, carbon dioxide, and nutrients makes them ideal biofuel sources that do not compete for resources with food crops like corn. Algae cultivation on non-arable land allows it to produce biofuel while not competing with them for resources. Algae biofuel has many advantages over fossil fuels, including reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and carbon emissions. There are various methods for turning algal feedstock or biomass into advanced biofuels. Algae biofuels have become widely used as fossil fuel replacements; however, several challenges must still be overcome, such as high production costs, the need for extensive growing systems, harvesting techniques that enable efficient harvesting/extraction techniques, as well as efficient harvesting/extraction technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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245 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainability Assessment of Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Literature Review

by Alok Bihari Singh, Himanshu Kumar Meena, Chandni Khandelwal and Govind Sharan Dangayach

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14728 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1259

Abstract

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are crucial social organizations that foster innovation, disseminate knowledge, and train future leaders in various fields. Higher education institutions are essential for implementing the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) plan. This review addresses HEIs’ attempts to evaluate sustainability in [...] Read more.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are crucial social organizations that foster innovation, disseminate knowledge, and train future leaders in various fields. Higher education institutions are essential for implementing the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) plan. This review addresses HEIs’ attempts to evaluate sustainability in higher education. This study analyzes the literature available on the sustainability assessment of higher education institutions to provide a review of the practices incorporated by different HEIs around the globe. Using the Scopus database and Google Scholar, 88 articles were selected for this review. The analyzed literature provided information that helped compile an SAT list (Sustainability Assessment Tool). The SATs identified in these articles are categorized as qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method techniques. The utilization of these SATs in real-world case studies was also presented, and their results are highlighted. This analysis aids and contributes to current research on using these SATs and other methods for evaluating and implementing the sustainability of HEIs. This study also explains the difficulties and scope of utilizing these SATs in the actual world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

849 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Decarbonization Challenges and Opportunities of Power Sector in Uzbekistan: A Simulation of Turakurgan Natural Gas-Fired Combined Cycle Power Plant with Exhaust Gas Recirculation

by Azizbek Kamolov, Zafar Turakulov, Adham Norkobilov, Miroslav Variny and Marcos Fallanza

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14648 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 615

Abstract

Power generation dependency on natural gas in Uzbekistan is high, with more than 85% of the country’s electricity production coming from natural gas. Hence, natural gas-fired power plants constitute the largest proportion of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon capture, storage, and utilization [...] Read more.

Power generation dependency on natural gas in Uzbekistan is high, with more than 85% of the country’s electricity production coming from natural gas. Hence, natural gas-fired power plants constitute the largest proportion of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCSU) play an essential role in reaching Uzbekistan’s reduction targets for carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. In this study, one (450 MW) of the two identical blocks of a 900 MW Turakurgan natural gas-fired combined cycle power plant (NGCCPP), located in the Fergana valley in Uzbekistan, is simulated using Aspen Plus^® commercial software and is validated with its open access project data prior to the evaluation of end-of-pipe CCSU unit integration. An optimal value of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is identified in order to further increase the CO₂ content in the flue gas while reducing the flue gas flow rate. In addition, according to the simulation results, more than 2.16 Mt of annual CO₂ emissions can be avoided when the capture plant is set at a 90% CO₂ capture rate. Apart from that, the suitability of various CCSU integration methods such as absorption, adsorption, membrane separation, and CO₂ bio-fixation is discussed, considering the power plant’s site-specific conditions and the obtained flue gas stream characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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701 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Computational Approaches for Structure-Based Functional Annotation of an Uncharacterized Conserved Protein of Acinetobacter baumannii

by Mamun Al Asad, Surya Afrin Shorna, Abu Saim Mohammad Saikat and Md Ekhlas Uddin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14679 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 922

Abstract

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an example of an opportunistic pathogen that is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause serious infections, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, wound infections, and bacteremia, in critically ill hospital patients. A. baumannii produces many proteins [...] Read more.

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an example of an opportunistic pathogen that is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause serious infections, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, wound infections, and bacteremia, in critically ill hospital patients. A. baumannii produces many proteins within its genome. By analyzing its structural and functional interpretations, bioinformatics techniques can make it easier to understand this organism. The protein is still unclear, though. As a result, this study developed an in-silico method for functional and structural characterization of the uncharacterized protein (accession ID: SSI32830.1). These provide many characteristics in silico viewpoints, such as the protein’s physiochemical qualities, subcellular localization, three-dimensional structure, and protein-protein interactions. Protein-protein interactions are explained using the STRING software. The projected tertiary structure evaluation was conducted using the Swiss Model. The best materials are chosen utilizing structural analyses based on Ramachandran plot analysis. This research sought to understand the function of A. baumannii. Therefore, this investigation will increase our understanding of pathophysiology and allow us to target the protein complex specifically. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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408 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Black Liquor Oxidation as a Means of Efficient Chemical Recovery in Paper Mills

by Miroslav Variny

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14724 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 660

Abstract

The chemical recovery cycle is essential for every pulp mill producing pulp via chemical pulping. The purpose of this cycle is to recover inorganic chemicals used for pulping that can facilitate heat and electric energy cogeneration. New methods such as white liquor oxidation [...] Read more.

The chemical recovery cycle is essential for every pulp mill producing pulp via chemical pulping. The purpose of this cycle is to recover inorganic chemicals used for pulping that can facilitate heat and electric energy cogeneration. New methods such as white liquor oxidation or black liquor gasification can increase the efficiency of the cycle and help to decrease the consumption of chemicals, thus contributing to more environmentally friendly pulp and paper production. This work focuses on assessing white-liquor-processing methods and evaluating their impact on chemical consumption in further pulp-processing stages. Model balances were established for a large paper mill with a capacity of 0.75 mil. tonnes of pulp and paper production, requiring around 100 tonnes per hour of white liquor for pulping. The results indicate that major savings on the purchase of chemicals can be realized, namely, more than 0.8 tonnes per hour and more than 1.2 tonnes per hour of pure sodium hydroxide in the cases of partial white liquor oxidation and full white liquor oxidation, respectively. Greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by more than 10 thousand tonnes per year of CO₂ equivalent as a result. The economics of the proposed technology’s implementation are favourable, indicating a simple payback period of less than three years for a certain combination of chemical and utilities costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1652 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modeling and Simulation of Hollow Fiber Modules of Hybrid Facilitated Transport Membranes for Flue Gas CO₂ Capture

by Abbos Elmanov, Abdulaziz Bakhtiyorov, Zafar Turakulov, Azizbek Kamolov and Adham Norkobilov

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14664 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 568

Abstract

A basis for modeling and simulation of the post-combustion CO₂ capture process was developed using hollow fiber membrane technology. The membrane cell was modeled using Aspen Custom Modeler (ACM) and exported to Aspen Plus as a membrane unit. The Aspen Plus methodology [...] Read more.

A basis for modeling and simulation of the post-combustion CO₂ capture process was developed using hollow fiber membrane technology. The membrane cell was modeled using Aspen Custom Modeler (ACM) and exported to Aspen Plus as a membrane unit. The Aspen Plus methodology was effectively used to estimate the physico-chemical parameters of CO₂ absorption by kinetic and thermodynamic models. The membrane cell for the permeation of gas mixtures was programmed using ACM and successfully imported into the simulation media, as there was no model block included for the hollow fiber membrane unit in the standard package for a process flowsheet simulation. The transport mechanism in hollow fiber membranes was discussed, and both empirical and theoretical models are presented for the facilitated transport theory of gases in membrane cells. The goal of modeling membrane cells is to design and optimize membranes for carbon capture processes. The concept of modeling membrane processes is identified, and some of the most important aspects of the simulation of membrane systems are discussed. As a reference, a CO₂ flux of more than 700 NL m⁻²h⁻¹ through a membrane cell was obtained. Challenges adversely affecting the separation performance of hollow fiber-based gas separation membranes are explained in detail, and the significance of incorporating the effects of such challenges into membrane models is clarified. Parameters affecting the separation performance of hollow fiber-based gas separation membranes were studied, and the significance of integrating the effect of probable challenges into membrane models was clarified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1435 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Simulation of One-Dimensional Solute Transport with Equilibrium-Controlled Non-Linear Sorption Using Modular Three-Dimensional Multispecies Transport Model

by Amit Kumar, Aftab Alam and Anshuman Singh

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14741 - 31 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 469

Abstract

Groundwater contamination is a rising issue worldwide, and it must be treated well as most of the world relies on it. Groundwater pollution occurs when undesirable substances in groundwater rise. Understanding, simulating, and predicting solute mobility in groundwater helps to treat polluted groundwater. [...] Read more.

Groundwater contamination is a rising issue worldwide, and it must be treated well as most of the world relies on it. Groundwater pollution occurs when undesirable substances in groundwater rise. Understanding, simulating, and predicting solute mobility in groundwater helps to treat polluted groundwater. MT3DMS has been used to model contaminant movement with a non-linear Freundlich sorption isotherm. MT3DMS stands for “Modular three-dimensional multispecies transport model”. MT3DMS software has several categories of solute transport solution techniques, like FDM and the higher-order finite-volume TVD method, in a unique single code. Applying the combination of these solution techniques is believed to give the best possible solution with greater precision and accuracy. In the current work, the benchmark problem (P2) of the MT3DMS package was taken, and the chemical reaction package was modified according to our problem. Multiple simulations were run with different adsorption capacities and intensities, incorporating the nonlinear Freundlich sorption isotherm. After that analysis of BTC trends, at a position 8 cm from the source, the pulse input of contamination was discharged for 160 s. The simulation lasted 1500 s. The observation output files were imported to plot BTCs for trend analysis and visualize simulation results. After comparing the various BTCs, it was found that the adsorption capability of porous medium enhances retention capacity so contaminants are sorbed and retarded by the solid phase more, slowing the contaminant movement and delaying the BTC peak. For similar adsorption capacity at a lower adsorption intensity, the solid retains more contaminant and the peak is attenuated as well as delayed; but, as the adsorption intensity increases, the relative concentration in the aqueous phase increases, and the peak is enhanced early as the solid retains less contaminant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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687 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Process Engineering for Low-Temperature Carbon-Based Perovskite Solar Modules

by Luigi Vesce, Maurizio Stefanelli, Hafez Nikbakht and Aldo Di Carlo

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14721 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 517

Abstract

In less than a decade, Perovskite solar cell (PSC) technology has gained high efficiency and broad attention because of its key enabling physical and morphological features. One of the main obstacles to PSC industrialization and commercialization is managed with the demonstration of stable [...] Read more.

In less than a decade, Perovskite solar cell (PSC) technology has gained high efficiency and broad attention because of its key enabling physical and morphological features. One of the main obstacles to PSC industrialization and commercialization is managed with the demonstration of stable devices by adopting low-cost, reliable materials and fabrication process methods. Here, we report a Perovskite solar module based on a low-temperature carbon electrode. The full process was performed in ambient air and engineered by printing techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

Removal of Phenol from Biomedical Waste via an Adsorption Process

by Arun Prasun, Anshuman Singh, Potsangbam Albino Kumar, Aftab Alam and Amit Kumar

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14663 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 488

Abstract

Phenolic chemicals are poisonous and have long-term impacts on humans and animals. Even in low quantities, as carcinogens, they destroy red blood cells and the liver. These biological waste products pollute groundwater. Thus, removing these organic chemicals to meet discharge limits is difficult. [...] Read more.

Phenolic chemicals are poisonous and have long-term impacts on humans and animals. Even in low quantities, as carcinogens, they destroy red blood cells and the liver. These biological waste products pollute groundwater. Thus, removing these organic chemicals to meet discharge limits is difficult. Electrochemical oxidation, redox reactions, membrane separation, and photocatalytic degradation help remove phenolic chemicals from water. Recently, phenolic chemicals have been shown to be removed via adsorption and photocatalysis employing carbon materials and clays. Due to their unique chemical and physical properties, nanometric materials are crucial to these processes. These substances’ structures, classification, entry points, and reactivity or interaction with other aquatic components have been extensively studied. Phenolic substances can be removed from the water before usage. This has led to the development of water treatment technologies and methods like activated carbon adsorption, solvent extraction, the electro-Fenton method, membrane-based separation method, photocatalysis, and others that have been shown to successfully remove phenolic compounds from water. Activated carbon is the most promising adsorbent for numerous contaminants (dyes, metals, etc.). However, low-cost agricultural materials are typically used to switch to more environmentally friendly ones. This study uses low-cost, eco-friendly adsorbents to remediate biomedical effluents. Pyrolysis of potato peels (waste) from a restaurant produced carbon samples. Absorption–desorption experiments examined pH, temperature, starting drug concentration, contact time, and regeneration ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2150 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Development of a New Solar System for Heating and Cooling an Agricultural Greenhouse

by Mohammed Benchrifa, Jamal Mabrouki and Rachid Tadili

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14700 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 402

Abstract

In order to increase the quality and quantity of agricultural products from greenhouse cultivation, and to cope with a very competitive market, it is necessary to have an optimal climate inside the greenhouse. To achieve this, the farmer uses expensive and very power-consuming [...] Read more.

In order to increase the quality and quantity of agricultural products from greenhouse cultivation, and to cope with a very competitive market, it is necessary to have an optimal climate inside the greenhouse. To achieve this, the farmer uses expensive and very power-consuming heating and cooling systems. In order to solve this problem, a new system has been developed with a solar thermal collector and a specific heat transfer fluid. The experimental study of this new system has shown that the system was able to keep the temperature inside the greenhouse in an optimal range for the development of the plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2082 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Conception of a Lighting Control and Management System with Graphical User Interface

by Mohamed Issam Ziane, Ghanem Kamel Ghalem, Bouchra Djelloul and Hadjer Khelil

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14658 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 608

Abstract

Lighting is the largest source of electricity consumption. The implementation of new technologies makes it possible to reduce the energy bill as well as the operating costs. In this work, we created a control and management system for exterior lighting using creative, intelligent, [...] Read more.

Lighting is the largest source of electricity consumption. The implementation of new technologies makes it possible to reduce the energy bill as well as the operating costs. In this work, we created a control and management system for exterior lighting using creative, intelligent, and autonomous methods. The project allows control room operators to monitor the system and interact when needed. Our project is subdivided into three major parts, ordering, data processing, and action. The first part is carried out in two modes: manually using an Optocoupler and controlled with a graphical interface by RS232 serial-type communication. The second part is processed by a microcontroller; as for the third part, it controls three poles through an MOC3023 Optotriac IC and BTA16-600B Triac for full and half lighting. For the controlled mode, we used the dimmer principle which works by essentially chopping parts out of the AC voltage. The brightness of the lamp is determined by the power transferred to it, so the more the waveform is chopped, the more it dims. A zero crossing control is needed for phase cutting. The graphical application of our project has a rather rough design. It is divided into two windows: the first consists of a connection window, and the second one is for the main control interface. On this control interface, there are basically three tabs: connection and serial connection status, control, and operating mode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1366 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Beeswax and Castor Oil to Improve the Moisture Barrier and Tensile Properties of Pectin-Based Edible Films for Food Packaging Applications

by A Dharhshini and Yamini Sudha Sistla

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14670 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 1133

Abstract

Biopolymer-based edible films and coatings are vital in making the global food-packaging industry more sustainable. These films/coatings protect and extend the shelf life of food by acting as barriers to moisture, oxygen, microorganisms, and ultraviolet light. Polysaccharides, due to abundant availability from natural [...] Read more.

Biopolymer-based edible films and coatings are vital in making the global food-packaging industry more sustainable. These films/coatings protect and extend the shelf life of food by acting as barriers to moisture, oxygen, microorganisms, and ultraviolet light. Polysaccharides, due to abundant availability from natural plant-based resources and the tendency to form a gel in water, are excellent low-cost choices for packaging films. Additives such as hydrophobic agents, plasticizers, binders, and antimicrobial agents will improve the properties of films and coatings. The present work aims to develop pectin-based packaging film (from 5% w/v film-forming solution) by adding castor oil as a hydrophobic agent, beeswax as a plasticizer, and clove oil as an antimicrobial agent. Films were developed by using 2³ (two-level, three-factor) statistical factorial design experiments. The amount of castor oil (5% and 15%), beeswax (5% and 10%), and clove oil (2% and 4%) are taken as the three factors. The developed films were analyzed for physical, moisture barrier, morphological, thermal, and tensile properties, and resistance to microbial growth. The results indicated that clove oil is a good antimicrobial agent. Furthermore, beeswax had a great impact by enhancing antimicrobial activity, elongation, and moisture barrier properties. Castor oil integration remarkably lowered the moisture and oxygen transmission rates relative to pure pectin films and some other additives reported in the literature. The optimized biofilms had a thickness of ~0.10 ± 0.004 mm, pH = 3, and transparency of ΔΕ = 9.15 to 25. The elongation at break increased at least four times. The films were thermally stable at 400 °C. The detailed statistical analysis and analysis of various studies indicate that the amount of castor oil (p < 0.05), a combined effect of castor oil and beeswax (p < 0.05) is significant on barrier properties while the effect of beeswax (p < 0.05) is also significant on mechanical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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5188 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimization Study for Desorption of Arsenic and Regeneration Performance on Magnetic Carbon Xerogels for Environmental Sustainability

by Sasirot Khamkure, Victoria Bustos-Terrones, Arael Torrecilla-Valle, Prócoro Gamero-Melo, Audberto Reyes-Rosas, Gregorio Vargas-Gutiérrez and Sofía-Esperanza Garrido-Hoyos

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14653 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 567

Abstract

Magnetic carbon xerogels were synthesized via direct sonication to load magnetite nanoparticles in sol–gel polycondensation onto resorcinol-formaldehyde gels. The resulting organic gels were carbonized and subjected to surface modification using H₂O₂ and characterized using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray [...] Read more.

Magnetic carbon xerogels were synthesized via direct sonication to load magnetite nanoparticles in sol–gel polycondensation onto resorcinol-formaldehyde gels. The resulting organic gels were carbonized and subjected to surface modification using H₂O₂ and characterized using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The desorption capacity was optimized using response surface methodology, with the adsorbent dose identified as the most significant quantitative factor. The kinetic adsorption was well described using the Elovich and Power equations. The regeneration capacity was evaluated over four sequential adsorption–desorption cycles, demonstrating the possibility of reusing the adsorbent and reducing the environmental impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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726 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

New Strains of Streptomyces as Perspective Antagonists of Microbial Phytopathogens

by Valentina N. Polivtseva, Tatiana N. Abashina, Alexander E. Noskov, Nataliya E. Suzina, Gholam Khodakaramian and Inna P. Solyanikova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14727 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 523

Abstract

Biological protection is an important part of the strategy of the modern environmentally safe protection of agricultural plants from phytopathogens. The most promising in this regard are soil microorganisms, in particular representatives of the phylum Actinomycetota. Actinomycetes are producers of biological compounds of [...] Read more.

Biological protection is an important part of the strategy of the modern environmentally safe protection of agricultural plants from phytopathogens. The most promising in this regard are soil microorganisms, in particular representatives of the phylum Actinomycetota. Actinomycetes are producers of biological compounds of various chemical structures with antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor effects. The authors have a collection of microorganisms (120 bacterial strains) isolated from soil and water sources. When analyzing isolates according to the morphological features of cells and mycelium, 25 bacterial cultures were selected from the collection. Studies of the ability to detect antimicrobial activity in the strains selected have been carried out. Five cultures were selected that effectively inhibit the growth of some phytopathogens. The bacterial strains were identified using the 16S rRNA gene, and their belonging to the Streptomyces genus was shown. The analysis of antibiotic resistance to 80 antibiotics showed that most antibiotics inhibited the growth of the studied strains of streptomyces. Data on the physiological characteristics of growth were obtained: the temperature optimum of growth for all strains is in the range of 24–30 °C, the optimum of NaCl concentration values for all strains is in the range of 0–3%, with the exception of the strain IPS92w, whose optimum range is wider and equal to 0–6%, and the optimum of pH values is in the range of 6–8. The strains selected have biotechnological potential for the development of a biological product with antimicrobial activity against phytopathogenic microorganisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2050 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Automated and Enhanced Leucocyte Detection and Classification for Leukemia Detection Using Multi-Class SVM Classifier

by Pranav More and Rekha Sugandhi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14710 - 19 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 709

Abstract

In this day and age, surrounded by innumerable forms of technology, the use of various autonomous systems to recognize various ailments has tremendously benefited the medical industry. An important medical practice is the visual evaluation and counting of white blood cells in microscopic [...] Read more.

In this day and age, surrounded by innumerable forms of technology, the use of various autonomous systems to recognize various ailments has tremendously benefited the medical industry. An important medical practice is the visual evaluation and counting of white blood cells in microscopic peripheral blood smears. Invaluable details regarding the patient’s health may be revealed, such as the discovery of acute lymphatic leukaemia or other serious disorders. This study provides a paradigm for detecting acute lymphoblastic leukemia from a microscopic vision of white blood cells. Microscopic images must go through a thorough pre-processing phase before being classified. In this study, WBCs are separated from blood smear images using morphological techniques, and the segmented region is then searched for a set of textural, geometrical, and statistical properties. Four different machine learning techniques are used to examine the performance of these algorithms: random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), naive Bayes classifier (NB), and K nearest neighbor (KNN). The SVM is effective in classifying and identifying the acute lymphoblastic cell that produces leukemia malignancy, as can be observed after careful comparison. A single classifier is virtually completely useless given the variety of blood smear pictures. As a result, we considered using EMC-SVM to classify leukocytes. The suggested method successfully distinguishes white blood cells from sample blood smear images, and accurately categorizes each segmented cell into the relevant group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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8 pages, 1340 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Implementing Community Composting in Primary Schools: First Experiences at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain

by Marta García-Prats, Daniel González, Javier Moral-Vico, Cristina Madrid-López and Antoni Sánchez

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14730 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 832

Abstract

Composting is one of the most viable alternatives to landfill disposal to reduce the environmental impacts of organic waste management, such as the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). A community composting system consisting of four 1 m³ modules was installed in a [...] Read more.

Composting is one of the most viable alternatives to landfill disposal to reduce the environmental impacts of organic waste management, such as the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). A community composting system consisting of four 1 m³ modules was installed in a selected primary school in Bellaterra (Spain) and monitored through daily analysis of the main process parameters (temperature, moisture content and interstitial oxygen) and weekly analysis of gaseous emissions (CH₄, N₂O and VOCs). The composting process was successful and gaseous emissions were maintained under desirable values, which can be used to support and promote this kind of initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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920 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Hierarchy of Waste Management: Option Selection for Managing Johannesburg City’s Restaurant Food Waste

by Charles Rashama, Riann Christian and Tonderayi S. Matambo

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14627 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 592

Abstract

Waste management strategies specified in the hierarchy of waste management were evaluated by applying a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) technique called the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to choose a strategy for managing Johannesburg (JHB) city’s food waste. Under the different weighting scenarios for the [...] Read more.

Waste management strategies specified in the hierarchy of waste management were evaluated by applying a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) technique called the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to choose a strategy for managing Johannesburg (JHB) city’s food waste. Under the different weighting scenarios for the evaluation criteria considered in this AHP, the recovery strategy scored an average of 41% while other strategies each scored 33%, 29% and 22% for prevention and reduction, treatment and disposal, re-use and recycle, respectively. Optimisation of resource recovery strategies from food waste is recommended for further consideration and investigation by the JHB municipality in its attempt to promote a circular economy and surmount food waste hurdles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1252 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Solar Energy Capacity Assessment and Performance Evaluation of Designed Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems

by Muhammad Tamoor, Abdul Rauf Bhatti, Muhammad Farhan, Muhammad Ans Zaka and Paris ZakaUllah

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14729 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 743

Abstract

One of the most common sustainable energy resources that contributes a significant portion of the energy produced from renewable resources is solar photovoltaic energy. The research presented in this paper examines the behaviour of a 150.7 kWp grid-connected PV energy generation system in [...] Read more.

One of the most common sustainable energy resources that contributes a significant portion of the energy produced from renewable resources is solar photovoltaic energy. The research presented in this paper examines the behaviour of a 150.7 kWp grid-connected PV energy generation system in either feeding electrical loads to a site (a public university, GCU Faisalabad) or feeding into the utility grid when the generation from the PV system is greater than the demand from the on-site load. PVSyst 7.4 software was used in the system simulation together with Meteonorm to produce and measure climatic information sets (solar irradiance, ambient temperature, and wind speed). The analysis of the simulated energy yields included determining the optimal energy generation photovoltaic array, the energy that is fed into the utility network, normalised energy generation per installed kWp, and performance ratio. The computed annual worldwide incident energy on the collector without optical adjustments was 1764.0 kWh/m², and the annual effective global irradiance after optical losses was 1654.7 kWh/m². With this irradiation, the solar (PV) array produced 218.12 MWh of DC energy annually, whereas 211.70 MWh of AC energy was injected into the national grid. The designed PV system collected 0.87 kilowatt-hour/kWp/day, with system losses of 0.120 kilowatt-hour /kWp/day and 3.85 kilowatt-hour /kWp/day of produced useful energy. The measured average yearly performance ratio (PR) was 79.64%. In the month of January, the highest PR value of 85.4% was achieved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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7569 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

IoT Monitoring Solution for a Middle-Scale Grid Powered by PV Solar Tracker

by Francisco Javier Folgado, Isaías González, Manuel Calderón, David Calderón and Antonio José Calderón

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14635 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 450

Abstract

The scarcity of fossil fuels and the increase in energy demand, which is growing year after year, have led to the rapid development of technologies and systems for harnessing renewable energy sources (RES). Among these, photovoltaic (PV) energy and its associated technologies stand [...] Read more.

The scarcity of fossil fuels and the increase in energy demand, which is growing year after year, have led to the rapid development of technologies and systems for harnessing renewable energy sources (RES). Among these, photovoltaic (PV) energy and its associated technologies stand out for their adaptability and versatility, highlighting among the rest for being one of the most efficient methods for harnessing energy from RES. Beyond the generation processes, the problems derived from the management and monitoring of these systems are outlined. This paper develops the design and implementation of a system based on Internet of Things (IoT) applications for a medium-scale power grid located within the university campus of Badajoz, Extremadura. This grid is partially powered by PV energy by means of a set of 56 panels, with a total power of 60 kW, installed on a solar tracker. The system presented develops the functions of acquisition, management, and monitoring of data from the solar tracker, the transformation center, and the consumption derived from the activities carried out at the School of Industrial Engineering, whose electricity supply comes from the two previous sources. The elements involved in the physical installation are described, as well as the sensors responsible for data acquisition. Regarding the software, the IoT programs used for the development of the system are presented, as well as their intercommunication and handling. Finally, the proposed system is shown under real operation conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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248 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Recent Research Progress on Corporate Social Responsibility of Hotels

by Alok Bihari Singh, Chandni Khandelwal, Prabir Sarkar, Govind Sharan Dangayach and Makkhan Lal Meena

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14726 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 779

Abstract

The term “corporate social responsibility” (CSR) refers to a set of voluntary guidelines put in place by businesses to demonstrate their willingness to take responsibility for their actions and contribute to the betterment of their surrounding communities with environmental and social factors. This [...] Read more.

The term “corporate social responsibility” (CSR) refers to a set of voluntary guidelines put in place by businesses to demonstrate their willingness to take responsibility for their actions and contribute to the betterment of their surrounding communities with environmental and social factors. This management action is based on the idea that businesses can and should care about the world around them by incorporating social and environmental issues into their daily activities and relationships with their stakeholders, as CSR helps companies balance economic, environmental, and social goals while meeting shareholder and stakeholder expectations. This research study synthesizes the literature in the duration of 2003–2023 on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the hotel business. Articles that covered hotels with a 3BL (triple bottom line) approach were included in the current study. A total of 57 articles have been selected on the basis of “CSR-Practices”, “CSR-Reporting”, and “CSR-Impacts” with both the hotels’ and customers’ perspectives as inclusion criteria for article selection. The internal and external CSR impacts on hotel businesses were highlighted, and customer reactions to CSR were also studied. There are some significant gaps found in the understanding of the linkage between corporate financial performance (CFP) and corporate social responsibility in the hotel sector. The local community, which is an essential CSR stakeholder, was found to be under-researched in the existing literature. Research gaps such as the linkage between CFP and CSR, the role of local communities as CSR stakeholders, and corresponding future research dimensions were also suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1672 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

New Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvent Based on Di-(2-Ethylhexyl)Phosphoric Acid and Trioctylphosphine Oxide: Properties and Application

by Arina V. Kozhevnikova, Inna V. Zinov’eva, Nikita A. Milevskii, Yulia A. Zakhodyaeva and Andrey A. Voshkin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14656 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 425

Abstract

In this work, a new hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent (HDES) based on trioctylphosphine oxide and di-(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid was obtained. The formation of HDES was confirmed by NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The physical properties of the synthesized HDES were studied, density, dynamic viscosity, refractive [...] Read more.

In this work, a new hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent (HDES) based on trioctylphosphine oxide and di-(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid was obtained. The formation of HDES was confirmed by NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The physical properties of the synthesized HDES were studied, density, dynamic viscosity, refractive index in the range of 15–60 °C, and phase diagram. The possibility of extraction of Co(II) and Al(III) ions from nitrate aqueous solutions was studied. The regularities of the interfacial distribution of metal ions were studied depending on the time of the extraction process, the ratio of components in HDES and pH of the aqueous phase. It has been shown that this HDES can be used for the selective extraction of metal ions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2303 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Defect Formation of Light-Emitting Particles during the Synthesis of a Hierarchical Porous Surface of ZnO/SiO₂/Si Structures

by Rashid Zhapakov, Mykhail Begunov, Tatyana Seredavina, Danatbek Murzalinov, Abay Serikkanov, Elena Dmitriyeva, Sultan Zhantuarov and Sayara Ibraimova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14645 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 425

Abstract

The formation of structures of different sizes on the surface of a single sample and the study of the mechanisms of their excitations and energy transitions is a promising area of research. ZnO/SiO₂/Si heterostructures were formed by two-stage electrochemical etching of [...] Read more.

The formation of structures of different sizes on the surface of a single sample and the study of the mechanisms of their excitations and energy transitions is a promising area of research. ZnO/SiO₂/Si heterostructures were formed by two-stage electrochemical etching of silicon wafers and synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles using sol-gel technology. By scanning electron and atomic force microscopies, various pores and clusters were identified. The presence of five levels of surface hierarchy provided the synthesis of light-emitting particles with different properties. Light emission mechanisms are associated with the recombination of excitons and the hyperfine structure of charged particles trapped on oxygen vacancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1119 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Biotesting of Soil Contamination of Agricultural Land Prokhorovsky District of the Belgorod Region

by Elena Kuzubova, Natalya Grigorenko, Galina Shaidorova, Zlata Ogneva and Marina Potapova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14657 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 377

Abstract

Belgorod Region is one of the main agro-industrial regions of Russia. The volume of production in the livestock sector in 2022 amounted to 203 billion rubles. Most often, livestock farms are located near agricultural land with plant crops, which increases the risk of [...] Read more.

Belgorod Region is one of the main agro-industrial regions of Russia. The volume of production in the livestock sector in 2022 amounted to 203 billion rubles. Most often, livestock farms are located near agricultural land with plant crops, which increases the risk of contamination of the latter with various toxicants. The purpose of this work was to study and assess the contamination with heavy metal ions and toxic chemicals of the soils of agricultural lands and nearby reservoirs in the Prokhorovsky district of the Belgorod region. Watercress (Lepidium sativum) and crustaceans (Daphnia magna Straus) are bioindicators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2670 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Lead Halogenide Filled Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

by Marianna V. Kharlamova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14620 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 405

Abstract

I filled the single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with lead chloride, lead bromide, and lead iodide. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy data proved the filling of SWCNTs. I investigated the electronic properties using Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and I showed the p-doping [...] Read more.

I filled the single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with lead chloride, lead bromide, and lead iodide. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy data proved the filling of SWCNTs. I investigated the electronic properties using Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and I showed the p-doping of SWCNT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2056 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Photoemission Insight to Filling of Large 1.7 nm Diameter Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes with Silver Chloride

by Marianna V. Kharlamova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14622 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 381

Abstract

Here, I fill large 1.7 nm diameter single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with silver chloride (AgCl). I present photoemission insights into the filling of SWCNTs. C1s X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveals the p-doping of SWCNTs. The Raman spectroscopy data are complementary to the XPS [...] Read more.

Here, I fill large 1.7 nm diameter single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with silver chloride (AgCl). I present photoemission insights into the filling of SWCNTs. C1s X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveals the p-doping of SWCNTs. The Raman spectroscopy data are complementary to the XPS data, and they confirm the strong doping effect of encapsulated silver chloride on SWCNTs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1267 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Field Trial of Solar-Powered Ion-Exchange Resin for the Industrial Wastewater Treatment Process

by Jaloliddin Eshbobaev, Adham Norkobilov, Zafar Turakulov, Bakhodir Khamidov and Orifjon Kodirov

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14626 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 582

Abstract

Water scarcity is currently one of the world’s major issues. Water treatment technologies are a solution to the water crisis problems. In this study, the outcomes of pre-pilot scale testing of solar-powered Ion-exchange resin technology is presented. The tests were carried out using [...] Read more.

Water scarcity is currently one of the world’s major issues. Water treatment technologies are a solution to the water crisis problems. In this study, the outcomes of pre-pilot scale testing of solar-powered Ion-exchange resin technology is presented. The tests were carried out using industrial wastewater at the Kungrad Soda Plant located in Kungrad, Uzbekistan. From the plant, about 1500 m³/day of waste water containing total dissolved solids (TDS) is discharged into the environment. In order to reduce the negative impact on the environment and to reuse waste water, the factory proposed conducting water purification tests from unwanted ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, dissolved CO₂). During the test of the technology, water with a TDS of about 2000 ppm was passed through the ion-exchange resin and clean water of around 30 ppm was obtained (purify up to 98–99%). However, according to the requirement of the plant, a certain amount of daily water is purified and added to the total water, and no more than 1600 ppm water is produced and sent for reuse. Experiments have been successfully carried out on a pre-pilot scale using this technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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7 pages, 332 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Prediction of Aroma Partitioning Using Machine Learning

by Marvin Anker, Christian Krupitzer, Yanyan Zhang and Christine Borsum

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14707 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 613

Abstract

Intensive research in the field over the past decades highlighted the complexity of aroma partition. Still, no general model for predicting aroma matrix interactions could be described. The vision outlined here is to discover the blueprint for the prediction of aroma partitioning behavior [...] Read more.

Intensive research in the field over the past decades highlighted the complexity of aroma partition. Still, no general model for predicting aroma matrix interactions could be described. The vision outlined here is to discover the blueprint for the prediction of aroma partitioning behavior in complex foods by using machine learning techniques. Therefore, known physical relationships governing aroma release are combined with machine learning to predict the

K_{m g}

value of aroma compounds in foods of different compositions. The approach will be optimized on a data set of a specific food product. Afterward, the model should be transferred using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to a different food category to validate its applicability. Furthermore, we can transfer our approach to other relevant questions in the food field such as aroma quantification, extraction processes, or food spoilage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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26800 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Gallium Selenide and Rubidium Iodide Filling of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as p, and n-Dopant Chemical Compounds

by Marianna V. Kharlamova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14624 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 461

Abstract

I filled the single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with gallium selenide (GaSe) and rubidium iodide (RbI) as p- and n-dopant chemical compounds. The filling was confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. I investigated the electronic properties by Raman spectroscopy, optical absorption spectroscopy, near-edge X-ray [...] Read more.

I filled the single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with gallium selenide (GaSe) and rubidium iodide (RbI) as p- and n-dopant chemical compounds. The filling was confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. I investigated the electronic properties by Raman spectroscopy, optical absorption spectroscopy, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. I proved the p-doping of SWCNTs by the introduced GaSe. The data featured the n-doping of carbon nanotubes in RbI-filled SWCNTs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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731 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhancing the Energy Efficiency of a Black Liquor Evaporation Plant by Mechanical Vapor Recompression Integration

by Miroslav Variny

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14735 - 30 May 2023

Viewed by 829

Abstract

Black-liquor-thickening in an integrated multi-effect evaporation plant consumes substantial amounts of steam produced in pulp and paper mills, and its efficient operation is, thus, crucial. Industrial applications of heat pumps in the pulp and paper industry, especially in black liquor evaporation, show promise [...] Read more.

Black-liquor-thickening in an integrated multi-effect evaporation plant consumes substantial amounts of steam produced in pulp and paper mills, and its efficient operation is, thus, crucial. Industrial applications of heat pumps in the pulp and paper industry, especially in black liquor evaporation, show promise in terms of cutting energy consumption and in decarbonizing this industrial branch. Modelling of such a plant includes momentum, heat and mass transfer issues, enriched with black liquor material specification. An existing black liquor evaporation plant which thickens inlet black liquor from 17% to 75% wt. dry solids with a dry solid flow of 2500 tonnes per day is considered. It already includes a MVR (mechanical vapor recompression) pre-evaporator as well as water-condensate stripping columns. A mathematical model of this plant is created in a Matlab environment and, after verification of obtained results, it serves for analyses of possible plant modifications. Among the modification options, installation of a second MVR is modeled and its impact on the whole plant is examined. As a result, a differential (marginal) change in steam and electricity consumed in the plant is obtained. Model results indicate the possibility of a reduction of process steam consumption of around 10 tonnes per hour and an increase in electricity consumption of 600 kW. A favorable simple payback period of 2.5 years can be expected for the considered investment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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252 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of C.I. Basic Blue 9 in Water under UV and Visible Light Illumination Using Copper/Sulfur Co-Doped Titanium Dioxide Nanotubes

by Edgar Clyde R. Lopez

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14637 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 447

Abstract

Titanium dioxide has long been investigated for its excellent photocatalytic activity under UV illumination. However, its sluggish activity under visible-light illumination remains a challenge. Doping titanium dioxide with transition metals and non-metals was done in the past to improve its catalytic properties, yet [...] Read more.

Titanium dioxide has long been investigated for its excellent photocatalytic activity under UV illumination. However, its sluggish activity under visible-light illumination remains a challenge. Doping titanium dioxide with transition metals and non-metals was done in the past to improve its catalytic properties, yet the expensive synthesis protocols involved in doping titanium dioxide limit its applications. Herein, a one-pot approach to doping titanium dioxide nanotubes was used. In particular, the Cu/S-TiNTs electrode was synthesized by electrochemical anodization using an electrolyte solution spiked with CuSO₄. The resulting nanostructured Cu/S-TiNTs electrode was used as a photoanode for the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of synthetic dye solution (50 ppm C.I. Basic Blue 9 in deionized water) in a 125-mL reactor. The Cu/S-TiNTs were shown to be catalytically active under both ultraviolet and visible light. Co-doping pristine TiNTs with copper and sulfur significantly enhanced the photoelectrocatalytic degradation rates of BB 9. Cu/S-TiNTs achieved a 67% faster degradation rate (k₁ = 1.5054 ± 0.0193 × 10⁻² min⁻¹) compared to pristine TiNTs (k₁ = 8.9106 ± 0.0647 × 10⁻³ min⁻¹) under visible light illumination. At the end of 60 min, the Cu/S-TiNTs were able to degrade 59.69% of the initial dye concentration under visible light, compared to 45.43% degradation using pristine TiNTs. The synthesized photoanodes demonstrated good reusability and stability after several cycles of use, even at a low dopant loading. These findings bring us closer to the possibility of large-scale adaptation of advanced oxidation processes, such as photoelectrocatalysis, for environmental remediation of recalcitrant organic compounds in wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

757 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modelling and Optimisation of Zinc (II) Removal from Synthetic Acid Mine Drainage via Three-Dimensional Adsorbent Using a Machine Learning Approach

by Musamba Banza and Tumisang Seodigeng

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14711 - 19 May 2023

Viewed by 449

Abstract

This work uses three-dimensional green and biodegradable adsorbent from cellulose nanocrystals and a machine learning technique to simulate and optimise the removal of zinc (II) from synthetic acid mine drainage. The adsorption process was modelled and optimised using three machine learning algorithms: response [...] Read more.

This work uses three-dimensional green and biodegradable adsorbent from cellulose nanocrystals and a machine learning technique to simulate and optimise the removal of zinc (II) from synthetic acid mine drainage. The adsorption process was modelled and optimised using three machine learning algorithms: response surface methodology (RSM), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and artificial neural network (ANN). According to the findings, the created models successfully predicted the adsorption behaviour, with the ANN model performing best with the lowest error rate. The study also looked at the impact of other factors on the adsorption process, such as pH, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and starting concentration. The RSM was used to optimise the process, and the ideal conditions for the maximal zinc (II) removal efficiency were established. The best conditions were established to be an initial pH of 6, an initial concentration of 175 mg/L, a contact period of 100 min, and a sorbent dosage of 6 mg/L. The results show that the created three-dimensional adsorbent and machine learning approach, namely, the ANFIS model, are promising strategies for removing zinc (II) from acid drainage. The study’s findings might help develop cost-effective and efficient systems for treating polluted water supplies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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6 pages, 3362 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Focusing on Eco-Friendly Adsorption Method: Removal of Endocrine-Disrupting Cu²⁺ Ions by Iron Shavings

by Hakan Çelebi, Tolga Bahadır, İsmail Şimşek and Şevket Tulun

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14625 - 11 Jul 2023

Viewed by 440

Abstract

Today, the common problem of all countries of the world is the presence of different environmental pollutants in water, air, and soil environments. In particular, endocrine disruptors represent a broad group of pollutants. Copper, which is both in this group and among the [...] Read more.

Today, the common problem of all countries of the world is the presence of different environmental pollutants in water, air, and soil environments. In particular, endocrine disruptors represent a broad group of pollutants. Copper, which is both in this group and among the heavy metals, reaches aquatic environments directly and indirectly from anthropogenic activities. The adsorption process is the most environmentally friendly, economical, and practical method of preventing pollution caused by these Cu²⁺ ions, and intensive studies have been carried out on this method in recent years. The main target in these studies is to prefer adsorbents that do not cause pollution after removal. In this study, iron shavings (FeS) were considered to be used as an adsorbent. Laboratory-scale batch analyses were performed in synthetic solution under constant stirring speed (150 rpm) and temperature (20 ± 2 °C) with different pHs (2.0–6.0), FeS doses (0.1–5 g), and contact times (1–60 min). The maximum removal efficiency of Cu²⁺ was determined to be 78% under optimum operating conditions. The aim of this research article is to understand the application possibility of FeS adsorbent for the efficient removal of Cu²⁺. Interestingly, laboratory studies have shown that the use of FeS adsorbent can efficiently remove the endocrine-disrupting Cu²⁺. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1544 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Biosynthesis and Characterization of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles

by Alina Matei, Gabriel Craciun, Cosmin Romanitan, Cristina Pachiu and Vasilica Tucureanu

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14629 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 892

Abstract

In this paper, we report the use of the natural extract of Echinacea leaves [Echinacea purples] for the biosynthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles, with copper nitrate [Cu(NO₃)₂ 3H₂O] used as a metal precursor salt. The synthesized [...] Read more.

In this paper, we report the use of the natural extract of Echinacea leaves [Echinacea purples] for the biosynthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles, with copper nitrate [Cu(NO₃)₂ 3H₂O] used as a metal precursor salt. The synthesized CuO was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The FTIR spectra confirm not only the presence of the Cu-O bond by the appearance of the characteristic peak at 402 cm⁻¹, but also the presence of the functional groups characteristic of the biomolecules present in the plant extracts used. The Raman spectra indicate peaks at wavelengths of 272 and 610 cm⁻¹, which are characteristic bands for CuO. The XRD diffractogram indicates the formation of a monoclinic crystalline structure by the appearance of distinctive peaks corresponding to (110), (002), and (111) planes, with an average crystallite size of 15 nm. The SEM images reveal the formation of spherical particles with dimensions below 40 nm. The EDX spectrum confirms the presence of the peaks attributed to (C) and (O) atoms without other impurities. Due to the small size, morphology, and precise elemental composition of CuO NPs, this approach allows the synthesis of biomaterials with applicability in the development of antibacterial agents and biosensors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2158 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Characterization of PEM Fuel Cell in the Context of Smart Microgrids Involving Renewable Energies

by David Calderón, Francisco Javier Folgado, Isaías González and Antonio José Calderón

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14634 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 411

Abstract

Fuel Cells (FCs) constitute an enabling technology for the integration of renewable energies and for the deployment of the next generation of power grids, the so-called Smart Grids/Microgrids. These devices perform the process of converting hydrogen into electricity without emitting pollutant emissions. Characteristic [...] Read more.

Fuel Cells (FCs) constitute an enabling technology for the integration of renewable energies and for the deployment of the next generation of power grids, the so-called Smart Grids/Microgrids. These devices perform the process of converting hydrogen into electricity without emitting pollutant emissions. Characteristic curves, mainly polarization curves, are a paramount resource to study the performance of FCs and to determine accurate models that fit their behavior. This paper presents the characterization of a commercial Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) FC consisting of 24 cells in series with a nominal output of 500 W, used to supply electricity in a Smart Microgrid involving renewable energies and hydrogen. The process evolution takes place under different laboratory conditions, so voltage, current, and hydrogen flow are measured and plotted to build the polarization curves. The equipment and components involved in the operation of the FC are described, as well as their technical features. Namely, a metal-hydride bottle is used to store the hydrogen that feeds the FC, an electronic programmable load establishes different charge conditions, and a precision multimeter collects the measurements provided by a set of sensors physically coupled to the FC. The characterization conducted in this research is envisioned to be used to build a digital twin of the FC. The developed experimentation and achieved results are described. The obtained results show a proper match between the experimental data and the curves reported in the literature and in the FC datasheet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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650 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Group Contribution Revisited: The Enthalpy of Formation of Organic Compounds with “Chemical Accuracy”

by Robert J. Meier

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14740 - 31 May 2023

Viewed by 316

Abstract

We established a group contribution (GC) parametrization for the heat of formation of organic molecules, but, and this is new, revealed chemical accuracy (1 kcal/mol). Compared to previous approaches which did not achieve this result, we succeeded by (i) taking reliable and consistent [...] Read more.

We established a group contribution (GC) parametrization for the heat of formation of organic molecules, but, and this is new, revealed chemical accuracy (1 kcal/mol). Compared to previous approaches which did not achieve this result, we succeeded by (i) taking reliable and consistent experimental data, (ii) not relying on computer-assisted automated parameter estimation, (iii) taking into account the physico-chemistry known for years, i.e., only introducing additional parameters when we understand the physico-chemistry, and finally, (iv) acknowledging that the linear additive GC method has its limits and cannot account properly for any molecule. Not only the averaged absolute deviations but also the individual results were almost without exception within chemical accuracy, except for some more heavily substituted molecules for which the group contribution approach breaks down. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1416 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Synthesis of 2-Izopropyl-5-methylphenylcarboxymethylen Tartrate

by Azimjon Uralovich Choriev, Ruzimurod Sattorovich Jurayev, Anvar Kabirovich Abdushukurov and Machram Gasanovich Abdullayev

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14659 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 384

Abstract

The chemical reaction of O-chloroacetylthymol with the sodium salt of tartaric acid in the presence of dimethylformamide and hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA) as solvents is described in this article, along with the findings of physico-chemical analysis to confirm the structure of the resulting chemical compounds. [...] Read more.

The chemical reaction of O-chloroacetylthymol with the sodium salt of tartaric acid in the presence of dimethylformamide and hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA) as solvents is described in this article, along with the findings of physico-chemical analysis to confirm the structure of the resulting chemical compounds. Hexamethylphosphoramide was found to be present in the chemical reactions which were proven to have the greatest yields (HMPA). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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259 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainable Textiles from Unconventional Biomaterials—Cactus Based

by Cornelia Wjunow, Kim-Laura Moselewski, Zoe Huhnen, Selina Sultanova and Lilia Sabantina

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14652 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2347

Abstract

Petroleum-based resources used in the manufacturing of products and the recycling of products at the end of their life cycles are not environmentally friendly. Various studies have shown that vegan leather alternatives are particularly suitable because they mimic the properties of real leather, [...] Read more.

Petroleum-based resources used in the manufacturing of products and the recycling of products at the end of their life cycles are not environmentally friendly. Various studies have shown that vegan leather alternatives are particularly suitable because they mimic the properties of real leather, and the qualities of the bio-based materials combined with textile substrates are relatively close to real leather. In addition, cactus plants require less water and can completely replace real leather. The use of cactus as a source of sustainable textiles and leather offers numerous environmental benefits. This is due to the fact that harvesting the cactus does not harm the plant or its roots, allowing it to keep growing and sequestering carbon dioxide. This paper discusses sustainable materials based on cactus species that can replace leather products, for example, and explores the development of bio-based textiles in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

896 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

3D Printing with Biomaterials—The New Sustainable Future of Textiles?

by Manuela Polewka, Franca Enz, Marie Jennißen, Emilia Wirth and Lilia Sabantina

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14734 - 30 May 2023

Viewed by 1158

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, encompasses a wide range of techniques for applications ranging from on-demand production to functional prototypes. 3D printing is mainly used in industrial sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, dental, construction, art and fashion. Fossil fuel-based [...] Read more.

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, encompasses a wide range of techniques for applications ranging from on-demand production to functional prototypes. 3D printing is mainly used in industrial sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, dental, construction, art and fashion. Fossil fuel-based materials, such as plastics and metals, as well as concrete, etc., are widely used to produce 3D-printed products. More recently, innovative 3D technologies using new bio-based renewable materials have shown promising results for everyday applications, opening up new opportunities for sustainable 3D printing in the future. This review reports on developments in the 3D printing of bio-based materials, direct or partial printing on textiles, etc., providing considerations, challenges and future outlooks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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226 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Resin and Bagasse, Co-Products of Guayule Rubber Extraction: Applications in Different Fields for an Economic Viability and Ecological Approach

by Hind Houria Bougherra, Lamia Taouzinet, Sabiha Bechir, Khoukha Mouhoubi, Lynda Messaoudene, Ayoub Allam and Khodir Madani

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14661 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 591

Abstract

The economic viability of guayule as an industrial crop for natural rubber production depends largely on the potential valorization of these co-products. According to the studies carried out on the subject, there is a broad consensus on the added value of the resin [...] Read more.

The economic viability of guayule as an industrial crop for natural rubber production depends largely on the potential valorization of these co-products. According to the studies carried out on the subject, there is a broad consensus on the added value of the resin and bagasse in different fields of application. The process of extracting natural rubber from guayule produces mainly bagasse (±80% of the total dry mass) and resin (±10% of the total dry mass). According to guayule research, high-value co-products significantly improve the economic viability of guayule as an industrial crop and offset a substantial portion of the cultivation and processing costs. According to studies, resin remains the most fluctuating value; reducing this uncertainty, through future research on resin applications, it is essential to the success of guayule as a natural rubber raw material. It finds applications in different industrial fields, such as coatings, varnishes, paints, treated wood, biocontrol agents and controlled-release formulations. Bagasse is composed primarily of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and resin, and has a high calorific value, making bagasse a suitable fuel for on-site combustion to produce electricity and thermal energy. Bagasse combustion in this scenario is less complex than the logistics of biofuel production. Resin-containing guayule bagasse has been combined with a plastic binder to make high-density composite panels resistant to termite degradation. In addition, the resinous material can be solvent-extracted and used to impregnate wood with raw resin extract so that the wood is protected from destructive organisms. Guayule bagasse containing resin can modify the soil nature and improve the growth of vegetables compared to de-resinated bagasse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

524 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bioinformatics Approaches for Structural and Functional Annotation of an Uncharacterized Protein of Helicobacter pylori

by Md. Morshed Alam, Abu Saim Mohammad Saikat and Md. Ekhlas Uddin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14671 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 1077

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative, slow-growing bacterium, microaerophilic, and a unique gastric pathogen that causes chronic inflammation in the gastric mucosa with the possibility of developing gastric cancer; one-third of its proteins are still uncharacterized. In this study, computational [...] Read more.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative, slow-growing bacterium, microaerophilic, and a unique gastric pathogen that causes chronic inflammation in the gastric mucosa with the possibility of developing gastric cancer; one-third of its proteins are still uncharacterized. In this study, computational analysis was performed on the structural, functional, and epitopic characteristics of a hypothetical protein (HP) from H. pylori named HPF63-1454. The model prediction and primary, secondary, and three-dimensional structures of the chosen HP were built. The newly created model appeared to have high quality once refinement and structure validation had been completed. The anticipated tertiary structure was assessed using the Swiss Model assessment. The best materials were chosen using structural analyses and considering data from the Z scores, Swiss Interactive Workplace, and Ramachandran plot statistics. This investigation aimed to determine the importance of the H. pylori protein HPF63-1454. Therefore, this research increased our understanding of pathophysiology and allowed us to target the protein complex specifically. H. pylori infections are now treated with readily available antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications, but this species has established itself as a hardy pest. Long-term and taxing antibiotic therapy for H. pylori infection is increasingly beginning to fail, necessitating novel and creative therapeutic modalities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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564 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Bioinformatic Approach for Molecular Characterization and Functional Annotation of an Uncharacterized Protein from Vibrio cholerae

by Md. Yousuf, Abu Saim Mohammad Saikat and Md. Ekhlas Uddin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14644 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 983

Abstract

With inadequate water purification and sewage disposal systems, cholera poses a significant health threat in developing nations. Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) is one of the main microscopic organisms associated with cholera illness. If cholera is not treated, renal failure, shock, hypokalemia, [...] Read more.

With inadequate water purification and sewage disposal systems, cholera poses a significant health threat in developing nations. Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) is one of the main microscopic organisms associated with cholera illness. If cholera is not treated, renal failure, shock, hypokalemia, and pulmonary edema can occur, resulting in death in a matter of hours. The machinery of bacterial virulence factors is what causes this disease. Among the various V. cholerae strains, V. cholerae O1 is the most prevalent and pathogenic strain. The total genome succession of V. cholerae unravels the presence of different genes and uncharacterized proteins whose capabilities are not yet perceived. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend V. cholerae by analyzing the structure and annotating the function of uncharacterized proteins. The NCBI sequence of uncharacterized V. cholerae O1 EET91795.1 proteins was annotated for this study. The domain family, protein solubility, ligand binding sites, and other parameters were all determined using a variety of databases and computational tools. The protein’s ligand-binding sites were found, and its three-dimensional structure was modeled. According to the analysis, the hotdog family protein may play metabolic roles like thioester hydrolysis in the metabolism of fatty acids and the breakdown of two products such as phenylacetic acid and the pollutant 4-chlorobenzoate. The structural prediction of this protein and detection of binding sites suggested a potential target to uncover promising inhibitors against the protein to treat infection caused by the target strain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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231 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Comparative Study of the Effects of Jatropha multifida and Euphorbia hirta and Their Mixture on Pathogenic Growth Rate

by Ekangu Gerald and Opio Alfonse

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14682 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 571

Abstract

Medicinal plants are used for the treatment of many diseases across the globe. However, some are expensive or not readily available. The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains of pathogenic microorganisms constitutes an important and growing threat to public health due to the uncontrolled [...] Read more.

Medicinal plants are used for the treatment of many diseases across the globe. However, some are expensive or not readily available. The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains of pathogenic microorganisms constitutes an important and growing threat to public health due to the uncontrolled use of synthetic microbial antibiotics. Due to the side effects and the resistance that pathogenic microorganisms develop against common antibiotics, the extraction of biologically active compounds from plants has recently attracted a great deal of attention. This study was carried out to compare the effectiveness of two medicinal plants, Jatropha multifida, and Euphorbia hirta, with respect to the growth inhibition of pathogenic Escherichia coli. The results showed that ethanolic extracts of the mixture of the two plants presented the highest inhibition of the growth of E. coli. When used independently, Euphorbia hirta presented higher inhibition than Jatropha multifida. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1746 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Combining COMSOL Modeling with Different Piezoelectric Materials to Design MEMS Cantilevers for Marine Sensing Robotics

by Basit Abdul, Mohammad Abul Hasan Shibly and Abdul Rab Asary

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14641 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 964

Abstract

This work presents a novel, highly sensitive, and directional piezoelectric cantilever-based micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device conceived using a biomimetic approach of a fish’s lateral line system for marine sensing robotics. The device will consist of twelve cantilevers with different lengths in a cross-shaped [...] Read more.

This work presents a novel, highly sensitive, and directional piezoelectric cantilever-based micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device conceived using a biomimetic approach of a fish’s lateral line system for marine sensing robotics. The device will consist of twelve cantilevers with different lengths in a cross-shaped configuration made with a piezoelectric thin film (PZT, ZnO, BaTiO₃) embedded between the top and bottom metals, Platinum (Pt) and Aluminum (Al), used as electrodes. This unique design of cantilevers in circular shapes has the advantage of directional response. A comparative study of these piezoelectric materials was performed analytically through the finite element method to design, model, and simulate our device in COMSOL software. Cantilever microstructures were simulated with lengths ranging from 100 to 1000 mm. The results show that PZT has the best performance with these materials. The maximum potential voltage was shown as 1.9 mV using the PZT material cantilever with 29 µm displacement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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6 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Linear Quadratic Gaussian Design in a Grid-Connected and Islanded Microgrid System for Stability Enrichment

by Sureshraj Se Pa, Mohamed Badcha Yakoob, Muthuveerappan Seetharaman, Jenita Daniel Victor, Kasthuri Arumugam and Srimathi Muthukumaran

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14672 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 611

Abstract

This paper proposes a Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) control design for a grid-connected and Islanded mode Microgrid composed of a single-network feeding and forming converter with one local load. The LQG controller was designed for two different Microgrid modes: Grid-connected mode and islanded [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) control design for a grid-connected and Islanded mode Microgrid composed of a single-network feeding and forming converter with one local load. The LQG controller was designed for two different Microgrid modes: Grid-connected mode and islanded mode. A separate LQG controller was designed for each mode and a comparative analysis was made. The LQG controller was designed using the State-Space variables determined by linearizing the model. The controller consists of the optimal gain ‘K’, optimal Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR), and the Kalman Filter. In both Microgrid modes, the LQG eliminates disturbance and noise in the system and makes the system optimally controlled. The Microgrid system also consists of another control system that comprises the subsequent control subsystem, i.e., Alpha–Beta control, Power and Current loop, and Space Vector Modulation. The steady-state response of the Microgrid system, noise, and disturbance present in Grid-connected and islanded modes was rectified by the LQG controller. The design environment used for developing the Microgrid and LQG controller was the MATLAB/Simulink platform. The effective simulations have permitted and determined results that convey the optimal control and stable performance of the proposed system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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571 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainable Engineering of an Outdoor Jacket from Waste in 2030

by Laura Marterer, Nora Torst, Oussema Ahmed Haddar and Lilia Sabantina

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14715 - 19 May 2023

Viewed by 510

Abstract

Due to the almost linear textile chain, large amounts of non-renewable resources are consumed to produce cheap clothes that are only worn a few times. Particularly problematic are the fiber waste and the enormous water consumption of the textile industry. In this work, [...] Read more.

Due to the almost linear textile chain, large amounts of non-renewable resources are consumed to produce cheap clothes that are only worn a few times. Particularly problematic are the fiber waste and the enormous water consumption of the textile industry. In this work, the development process of an outdoor jacket from the fiber to the finished product is sustainably presented. In the literature research, special attention is paid to fibers from waste and innovative processing methods. The practical part of the report describes the production of the convertible jacket design with the corresponding zero-waste pattern. The aim is to provide creative impulses and food for thought on the sustainability of a garment and to show that it is possible to produce a fashionable, durable, and water-repellent sustainable outdoor jacket. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2165 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation of Mixing Dynamics of a Pilot-Scale Twin-Paddle Blender Containing Non-Spherical Particles

by Behrooz Jadidi, Mohammadreza Ebrahimi, Farhad Ein-Mozaffari and Ali Lohi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14662 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 329

Abstract

An in-depth analysis of the flow patterns and mixing dynamics in a twin-paddle blender with bi-disperse non-spherical particles was investigated using the discrete element method (DEM) and experiments. This study aimed to explore the mixing efficiency of a twin-paddle blender containing two different [...] Read more.

An in-depth analysis of the flow patterns and mixing dynamics in a twin-paddle blender with bi-disperse non-spherical particles was investigated using the discrete element method (DEM) and experiments. This study aimed to explore the mixing efficiency of a twin-paddle blender containing two different shapes of non-spherical particles. The study focussed on the demonstration of the applicability of the GPU-based DEM model. To achieve this, calibration tests were performed using a classical rotary drum to validate the accuracy of the DEM model. The next step was to examine the impact of various operating parameters on the mixing performance, such as impeller rotational speed. The relative standard deviation (RSD) was employed as a measure of mixing performance. Results revealed that the rotational speed of the impellers had a significant impact on the mixing performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1658 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

New Hydrophobic Eutectic Solvent Based on Bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic Acid and Menthol: Properties and Application

by Inna V. Zinov’eva, Arina V. Kozhevnikova, Nikita A. Milevskii, Yulia A. Zakhodyaeva and Andrey A. Voshkin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14692 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 462

Abstract

In this work, a new hydrophobic eutectic solvent (HES) based on bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid and menthol was synthesized and characterized for the first time. Important physical properties of the prepared HES, such as the density, viscosity, refractive index, as a function of temperature in [...] Read more.

In this work, a new hydrophobic eutectic solvent (HES) based on bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid and menthol was synthesized and characterized for the first time. Important physical properties of the prepared HES, such as the density, viscosity, refractive index, as a function of temperature in the range 15–60 °C, were obtained. The new HES was applied for the extraction of Co, Ni, Cu, Mn, Al, and Fe from chloride solution. The extraction rate of Fe(III) reached 44%, while for other metals the extraction rate was not more than 3%. The potential possibility of the selective extraction of iron ions from an aqueous solution of a mixture of metals using the proposed HES was shown. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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209 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

System of Material and Construction Parameters for a Reliable Simulation of Textile Surfaces in the Clothing Industry

by Ulrike Reinhardt and Thomas Schneider

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14632 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 457

Abstract

Garment simulation enables the reduction of physical prototypes, saving time, material and costs. Complete elimination of physical prototypes is not yet possible because simulation is not reliable enough for a robust fit analysis. In addition, predictions of the textile-physical behaviour of virtually available [...] Read more.

Garment simulation enables the reduction of physical prototypes, saving time, material and costs. Complete elimination of physical prototypes is not yet possible because simulation is not reliable enough for a robust fit analysis. In addition, predictions of the textile-physical behaviour of virtually available materials would be useful. A new approach is being developed to represent the material and construction properties of textile surfaces, their correlations and their influence on the simulation. Based on the material parameters, conditions for a reliable simulation and prediction of the material behaviour can be derived. This paper first focuses on the distinction between the material properties of the fibres and the construction properties of the yarn and surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

759 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effect of Thermal Processing on Carotenoids in Fortified Bread

by Edward Muntean

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14694 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 405

Abstract

Bread is a staple food that provides essential nutrients to millions of people worldwide, hence its fortification with provitamin A carotenoids can help combat vitamin A deficiencies effectively. This study investigates fortified bread made with Cucurbita maxima Duch. fruits using a straight-dough [...] Read more.

Bread is a staple food that provides essential nutrients to millions of people worldwide, hence its fortification with provitamin A carotenoids can help combat vitamin A deficiencies effectively. This study investigates fortified bread made with Cucurbita maxima Duch. fruits using a straight-dough procedure, focusing on changes caused by thermal processing to carotenoids. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with photodiode-array detection was used for the sensitive and selective analysis of carotenoids. HPLC showed that lutein, cucurbitaxanthin A, and β-carotene are the major carotenoids in fortified bread, highlighting lutein and cucurbitaxanthin A as the most stable carotenoids during thermal processing. Fortified bread is a functional food that can not only combat vitamin A deficiency and prevent age-related macular degeneration, but also has antioxidant properties with related health effects, offering new market opportunities for producers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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738 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of the Safety of Immobilized Microorganisms Lysobacter sp. on Inorganic Media

by Galina Shaidorova, Alexander Vesentsev, Ulyana Krut, Elena Kuzubova, Alexandra Radchenko and Marina Potapova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14706 - 18 May 2023

Viewed by 390

Abstract

It is known that the immobilization of microorganisms on carriers of various natures increases their safety. The inorganic matrices used were sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, technical brand “KMC 85/500;” colloidal silicon dioxide in the form of a commercial preparation, “Polysorb;” and the sodium form [...] Read more.

It is known that the immobilization of microorganisms on carriers of various natures increases their safety. The inorganic matrices used were sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, technical brand “KMC 85/500;” colloidal silicon dioxide in the form of a commercial preparation, “Polysorb;” and the sodium form of montmorillonite from the Podgorenskoye deposit in the Voronezh region. Bacterial cells were immobilized by adding Lysobacter sp. solid sterile carrier with constant mechanical stirring in a “carrier/biomass” ratio equal to 1: (2–4). During the experiment, it was found that the mineral montmorillonite is a promising material for the immobilization of bacterial cells in order to obtain biocompositions based on them, since a positive trend in the preservation of bacterial cells was revealed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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7 pages, 1922 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Perfluoro(7-methylbicyclo[4.3.0]nonane) Purification from Close-Boiling Impurities by Heteroazeotropic Distillation Method

by Andrei V. Polkovnichenko, Egor V. Lupachev, Alexey V. Kisel’, Sergey Ya. Kvashnin and Nikolai N. Kulov

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14621 - 12 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 463

Abstract

The purification of perfluoro(7-methylbicyclo[4.3.0]nonane) industrial fractions with a component content above 0.950 in mass fraction is not effective and requires the use of special separation methods. According to experimental data, the separation factor of the initial mixture during distillation with no additional substances [...] Read more.

The purification of perfluoro(7-methylbicyclo[4.3.0]nonane) industrial fractions with a component content above 0.950 in mass fraction is not effective and requires the use of special separation methods. According to experimental data, the separation factor of the initial mixture during distillation with no additional substances is close to 1. At the same time, the addition of acetone (Ac) makes it possible to significantly intensify the process. Ac allowed for obtaining MBCN with a purity higher than 0.998 in mass fraction in one separation cycle, and the degree of recovery was more than 0.85 by weight. The paper presents data on the distribution of components (target product, identified and unidentified impurities of electrochemical fluorination of decalin) between the distillate and bottom product fractions, separation factor, liquid–liquid phase equilibrium in the MBCN-Ac system, and characteristics of the MBCN-Ac heteroazeotrope. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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7 pages, 3763 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

RSM Process Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Palm Oil in the Presence of SO₃H-PSC Catalysts

by Achanai Buasri, Phensuda Sirikoom, Sirinan Pattane, Orapharn Buachum and Vorrada Loryuenyong

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14666 - 12 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 808

Abstract

This research studied the synthesis of green and novel catalysts from waste materials for biodiesel production. An activated carbon (AC) material from palm seed cake (PSC) was soaked with zine chloride (ZnCl₂) and treated with sulfonic acid (SO₃H). The [...] Read more.

This research studied the synthesis of green and novel catalysts from waste materials for biodiesel production. An activated carbon (AC) material from palm seed cake (PSC) was soaked with zine chloride (ZnCl₂) and treated with sulfonic acid (SO₃H). The use of a sulfonated palm seed cake (SO₃H-PSC)-derived catalyst for the transesterification/esterification of triglyceride (TG) in waste cooking palm oil (WCPO) was demonstrated. The synthesized SO₃H-PSC catalyst was characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and the Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) method. To study the effects of methanol/oil mole ratio, amount of catalyst, and reaction time, the process of biodiesel production in a microwave reactor was optimized using a Box-Behnken design (BBD) approach with response surface methodology (RSM). As a result, the optimum reaction parameters found were 5.40 wt.% of the SO₃H-PSC catalyst, 17.35:1 methanol/WCPO mole ratio, and 8.57 min of reaction time. The synthesized biodiesel from WCPO meets the criteria for standard biodiesel (ASTM D-6751 and EN 14214). The heterogeneous catalyst demonstrates a promising and effective application for the biodiesel process, especially for feedstocks containing high free fatty acid (FFA) content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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241 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Present and the Future of Polyethylene Pyrolysis

by Edgar Clyde R. Lopez

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14695 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 687

Abstract

Most plastics on the market are based on petroleum. Because of their chemical inertness and durability, plastics are essentially non-biodegradable. Previously, plastic waste management typically focused on reusing and recycling it into valuable products. However, virgin plastic resins and their chemical processing to [...] Read more.

Most plastics on the market are based on petroleum. Because of their chemical inertness and durability, plastics are essentially non-biodegradable. Previously, plastic waste management typically focused on reusing and recycling it into valuable products. However, virgin plastic resins and their chemical processing to produce new plastic products are more economical than recycling. As such, most plastic waste ends up in dumpsites and sanitary landfills. Waste-to-energy conversion is a viable solution to the alarming rise of plastic proliferation in the Anthropocene age. The conversion of plastic wastes into valuable products such as liquid oils, fuel gas, and solid chars through a high-temperature pyrolytic process could lead to a source of alternative fuels. In this paper, the application of the pyrolysis process to polyethylene is discussed. Several process parameters were seen to influence the characteristics of the final pyrolysis products, such as the operating temperature, type of catalyst, and presence of agitation. Optimizing these key parameters is essential for the industrial adoption of the pyrolysis of plastics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1080 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Synthesis and Application of Magnesium-Based Nanoparticles for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue in Aqueous Solutions: Optimization and Kinetic Modeling

by Khumbolake Faith Ngulube, Mahmoud Nasr, Manabu Fujii and Amal Abdelhaleem

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14636 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 528

Abstract

Heterogeneous photocatalysis has been studied with various semiconductor materials for the efficient degradation of various water pollutants; however, there is the challenge of wide-bandgap photocatalyst materials, which limits their application under visible-light irradiation. Herein, a ZnO@MgO core–shell nanocomposite was synthesized using co-precipitation and [...] Read more.

Heterogeneous photocatalysis has been studied with various semiconductor materials for the efficient degradation of various water pollutants; however, there is the challenge of wide-bandgap photocatalyst materials, which limits their application under visible-light irradiation. Herein, a ZnO@MgO core–shell nanocomposite was synthesized using co-precipitation and applied to the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye under visible-light irradiation. MB degradation was optimized using the response surface methodology, resulting in 95.948% and ≈91% predicted and actual MB removals, respectively, at a 10 mg/L MB concentration, 1000 mg/L catalyst dose, pH 10, and time of 115.7 min. The degradation kinetics were studied, and it was found that the degradation followed pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of k = 0.07593 min⁻¹. A cost–benefit analysis was undertaken, and the operating costs were estimated based on the optimized conditions at $7.6/m³ with a payback period of 3.2 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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390 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Innovative Heating Processes in Food Production

by Abdurahmon Habibov

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14687 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 548

Abstract

Due to its advantages—energy efficiency, heating speed, non-contact, controllability, etc.—induction heating has been widely used in many industries. The purpose of this article is to review the basics of induction heating in the food industry and analyze a pilot experiment on the concentration [...] Read more.

Due to its advantages—energy efficiency, heating speed, non-contact, controllability, etc.—induction heating has been widely used in many industries. The purpose of this article is to review the basics of induction heating in the food industry and analyze a pilot experiment on the concentration of a food solution. The developed laboratory induction evaporator showed good results. The research needs and future prospects of this technology in other food industries are also presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1838 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Influence of Impregnation of Sodium Carbonate Catalyst on Physicochemical Properties of Biochar

by Norbert Onen Rubangakene, Ahmed Elwardany, Manabu Fujii, Hidetoshi Sekiguchi and Hassan Shokry

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14688 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 326

Abstract

Biochar (BC) has been a viable resource in producing functionalised carbonaceous materials beneficial in soil fertility, environmental remediation, and energy recovery. In this study, the influence of Na₂CO₃ on the pyrolytic conversion of green pea peels to BC was examined [...] Read more.

Biochar (BC) has been a viable resource in producing functionalised carbonaceous materials beneficial in soil fertility, environmental remediation, and energy recovery. In this study, the influence of Na₂CO₃ on the pyrolytic conversion of green pea peels to BC was examined to assess BC’s yield and physicochemical characteristics. Experiments were conducted in batch processes at a constant temperature of 500 °C by wet impregnation using 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% (w/w) ratios of Na₂CO₃ catalyst to biomass weight. Characterisations of the produced BC materials were conducted by bomb calorimetry, SEM, BET, FTIR, and XRD. Accordingly, catalyst incorporation by pretreatment resulted in a decrease in yield while increasing the porous development. The specific surface area at a constant temperature increased from 1.006 to 17.7 m² g⁻¹, and the pore diameter decreased from 173.1 to 9.283 nm. The oxygenated functional groups negatively correlated with the increase in the amount of catalyst, whereas the calorific values of the synthesised materials increased from 20.313 kJ g⁻¹ to 25.479 k Jg⁻¹ when the catalyst impregnation ratio was enhanced from 0% to 30%, indicating that BC produced from catalysed processes demonstrates better energy recovery potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1178 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimization of Dietary Fiber Extraction from Quince Peel

by Alexis Pereira, Mikel Añibarro-Ortega, António Nogueira, Lillian Barros and José Pinela

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14690 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 545

Abstract

The agri-food industry generates tons of waste rich in dietary fiber, a nutrient that can be recovered to be reused in the development of fiber-enriched foods and beverages. This could be a strategy to achieve resource-use efficiency and to promote adequate intakes of [...] Read more.

The agri-food industry generates tons of waste rich in dietary fiber, a nutrient that can be recovered to be reused in the development of fiber-enriched foods and beverages. This could be a strategy to achieve resource-use efficiency and to promote adequate intakes of this nutrient, since a large part of the world population does not get the recommended daily amount. In this sense, this work was carried out to optimize the extraction of dietary fiber from quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill.) peel, using the response surface methodology. A 20-run experimental design was implemented, combining the factors time, temperature, and ethanol percentage at five levels. The yield of fibrous residue (FR) and its dietary fiber content and color parameters were used as dependent variables. The developed predictive models were statistically validated and used to determine optimal extraction conditions. The process was significantly affected by temperature and ethanol percentage, and the highest dietary fiber content (67% of FR) was obtained using 36% ethanol at 92 °C. Overall, these results showed that C. oblonga fruit peel could be upcycled into dietary fiber-rich food ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1008 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bench-Scale Continuous-Flow System for Coagulation/Flocculation/Sedimentation Treatment of Washing Bay Effluents: A Comparison between Natural and Chemical Coagulants

by Derrick Dadebo, Mahmoud Nasr, Manabu Fujii and Mona G. Ibrahim

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14693 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 442

Abstract

Washing Bay effluent contains several organic and inorganic pollutants that require effective treatment techniques. The new trend of utilizing plant-based coagulants for treating washing bay effluent can help overcome drawbacks associated with chemical coagulants such as large sludge volumes, health risks, and high [...] Read more.

Washing Bay effluent contains several organic and inorganic pollutants that require effective treatment techniques. The new trend of utilizing plant-based coagulants for treating washing bay effluent can help overcome drawbacks associated with chemical coagulants such as large sludge volumes, health risks, and high costs. Hence, this study evaluates the comparative performance of C. arietinum and alum coagulants in continuous feed bench-scale experiments for treating washing bay effluents. The multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was performed using the Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method to determine a sustainable coagulant material based on the established criteria. The results showed that the C. arietinum bio-coagulant produced a higher utility value than alum; hence it could be a preferable alternative in the C/F/S treatment of washing bay effluent based on the selected criteria and weights. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2251 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Development of Pectin and Sodium Alginate Composite Films with Improved Barrier and Mechanical Properties for Food-Packaging Applications

by Abhay Kannan, Muthurajadurai Dheeptha and Yamini Sudha Sistla

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14668 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 775

Abstract

The rate of plastic deterioration is currently significantly outpacing the rate at which plastic waste is being produced, leading to a biome-wide imbalance. Biopolymers derived from sustainable raw materials are widely explored as potential alternative packaging materials to increase the shelf-life of fresh [...] Read more.

The rate of plastic deterioration is currently significantly outpacing the rate at which plastic waste is being produced, leading to a biome-wide imbalance. Biopolymers derived from sustainable raw materials are widely explored as potential alternative packaging materials to increase the shelf-life of fresh produce and processed food. The present work aims to develop polysaccharide-based composite films. Sodium alginate- and castor oil-blended pectin films were developed as per the 2³ (two-level three-factor) factorial design of experiments. Sodium alginate was used as a stabilizer and film-forming agent to enhance the mechanical properties of the films. Castor oil was used as an additive to improve the moisture barrier and antimicrobial properties. D-sorbitol was used as a plasticizer to improve the flexibility of the films. The amounts of sodium alginate (25% and 50% w/w), castor oil (10% and 15% w/w), and D-sorbitol (15% and 30% w/w), with respect to pectin, and the sonication time were chosen as the four factors. Based on our prior optimization studies, all other process variables, such as pH (<4), drying temperature (60 °C), and humidity (40%), were maintained constant. The moisture barrier, mechanical, surface hydrophobicity, morphological, thermal stability properties, and biodegradability characteristics of each film were studied. All films were thin (~0.110 ± 0.004 mm) and transparent (ΔΕ = 3 to 11). The moisture barrier properties improved three-fold compared to pure pectin films. The elongation at break increased at least three times. The films were thermally stable at 400 °C. The melting point of the films increased to 150 °C, compared to 95 °C of the pure pectin film. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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823 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Energy-Efficient Control Methods in Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey

by Purushothaman Ramaiah, Ramakrishnan Narmadha and Sureshraj Se Pa

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14696 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 525

Abstract

Due to the advancement of sensor gadgets and telecommunication technology, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have drawn a lot of observations in the recent period. Inaccessible terrain, disaster zones, or polluted conditions are typically where they are deployed at random, making battery replacement or [...] Read more.

Due to the advancement of sensor gadgets and telecommunication technology, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have drawn a lot of observations in the recent period. Inaccessible terrain, disaster zones, or polluted conditions are typically where they are deployed at random, making battery replacement or recharge challenging or even impossible. Network lifespan is therefore extremely important to a WSN. An abundance of power-effective strategies in a diverse wireless sensor network are surveyed in this paper. We first provide an overview of the fundamental network radio representation and how it may be utilized to analyze different trade-offs between network deployment costs and an energy-efficient clustering approach. We also highlight a few protocols that can be utilized in heterogeneous networks that are energy efficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1374 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Performance of Hydrated Lime Derived from Industrial Brine Sludge Waste in Spray Dry Scrubbing of SO₂

by Bilha J. Chepkonga, Lawrence Koech and Hilary L. Rutto

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14623 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 603

Abstract

Spray dry scrubbing is a popular method for removing sulfur dioxide (SO₂) gas from industrial flue gases, with hydrated lime (Ca[OH]₂) being a preferred sorbent due to its high reactivity. This study investigated the feasibility of using Industrial Brine [...] Read more.

Spray dry scrubbing is a popular method for removing sulfur dioxide (SO₂) gas from industrial flue gases, with hydrated lime (Ca[OH]₂) being a preferred sorbent due to its high reactivity. This study investigated the feasibility of using Industrial Brine Sludge Waste (IBSW) from the chloralkali industry as a source of Ca[OH]₂. XRF analysis revealed that IBSW had a high content of CaO (89.05%), making it a suitable starting material for the production of a calcium-based sorbent. A laboratory-scale spray dry scrubber was used to test the performance of the prepared Ca[OH]₂ sorbent. The desulfurization efficiency was analyzed by investigating how the SO₂ capture in the spray dryer was influenced by the inlet flue gas temperature (120–180 °C), slurry pH (6–12), Ca:S ratio (1.0–2.5), and sorbent particle size (−45 µm to −90 µm). The highest SO₂ capture rate of 88.54% was achieved under the following conditions: inlet flue gas temperature of 120 °C; Ca:S ratio of 2.5; particle size of −45 µm; and a slurry pH of 12. The results suggest that IBSW can be a viable starting material for producing Ca[OH]₂ sorbents, which could then be utilized in the spray dry scrubbing process to remove SO₂ from industrial flue gases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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529 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Influence of Dairy Rumen Anaerobic Bacteria Inoculum on Biogas Production

by Bronius Žalys, Kęstutis Venslauskas, Kęstutis Navickas, Egidijus Buivydas and Mantas Rubežius

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14616 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 436

Abstract

The degradation of lignocellulose in biogas processes has been focused on the inoculant microorganisms involved, with a view to gaining a deeper understanding in order to improve lignocellulose degradation. The maximum volumetric biogas yield (12.17 L/L) was achieved with the inoculum used in [...] Read more.

The degradation of lignocellulose in biogas processes has been focused on the inoculant microorganisms involved, with a view to gaining a deeper understanding in order to improve lignocellulose degradation. The maximum volumetric biogas yield (12.17 L/L) was achieved with the inoculum used in experiment “B”, containing 400 g of digestate from the bioreactor along with 400 g of rumen fluid. The highest concentration of methane in biogas was obtained from the same inoculum composition (63.2 ± 1.5%). The second largest volumetric yield of 8.41 ± 0.45 L/L biogas was achieved in experiment “C,” where digestates were used as the main inoculum. Accordingly, in this case, the volumetric yield of biogas was 8.41 ± 0.45 L/L. The composition of rumen fluid and digestate increased biogas production from the same amount of alfalfa leaves by 30.9%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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235 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Rational Use of Whey in Food Production

by Marina Potapova, Sofia Ivanova, Nikita Lyakhovchenko, Alexandra Radchenko, Galina Shaidorova and Elena Kuzubova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14654 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 483

Abstract

This study describes the biotechnological significance of the by-product obtained in the production of milk products in the food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1284 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Process of Isolation, Using Crystallization of Cis- and Trans-Isomers, of Perfluorodecalines from an Industrial Mixture of Electrochemical Fluorination of Napthaline

by Aleksey V. Kisel, Andrei V. Polkovnichenko, Egor V. Lupachev, Nikolai N. Kuritsyn, Sergey Y. Kvashnin and Nikolai N. Kulov

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14640 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 477

Abstract

The process of crystallization separation of an industrial mixture of perfluorinated cycloalkanes was considered. The content of target products, cis- and trans-isomers of perfluorodecalin (PFD), in all initial fractions of the investigated samples of the reaction mixture was at least 70 wt.%. Based [...] Read more.

The process of crystallization separation of an industrial mixture of perfluorinated cycloalkanes was considered. The content of target products, cis- and trans-isomers of perfluorodecalin (PFD), in all initial fractions of the investigated samples of the reaction mixture was at least 70 wt.%. Based on the experimental data, the dependences of the crystallization (partition) coefficients between the solid and mother liquor (

D^{s / l}

), the enrichment factor (η^s), and the separation factor (F^s) on the ratio of trans-PFD to cis-PFD, the ratio of mother liquor to solid, and crystallization temperature in the range −50–15 °C were obtained. It was shown that the values

D^{s / l}

and η^s depended significantly on the concentration of trans-PFD in the initial solution, and that the value of F^s decreased as the process temperature rose. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1832 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Toward a Circular Bioeconomy: Extracting Cellulose from Grape Stalks

by Liliana Araújo, Adriana R. Machado, Manuela Pintado, Eduarda Vieira and Patrícia Moreira

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14746 - 7 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 495

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the extraction of cellulose from stalks of vines using auto-hydrolysis and characterize it. As the results obtained, the colorimeter readings displayed a final yellow color of the fiber, demonstrating that the bleaching process was insufficient [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to assess the extraction of cellulose from stalks of vines using auto-hydrolysis and characterize it. As the results obtained, the colorimeter readings displayed a final yellow color of the fiber, demonstrating that the bleaching process was insufficient and that multiple bleaching processes might be required. According to the FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) data, there were stretching and deformation vibrationsof characteristic peak that represent cellulose (2900, 1500, and 1200 cm⁻¹). Although lignin and hemicellulose were partially removed according to the FTIR, distinct cellulose yields were achieved for each fraction, including fractions 500, 300, 250, 150 µm, and retain, with values of 21.98, 12.70, 7.20, 5.74, and 3.11%, respectively. In sum, we were able to extract cellulose from the stalk vine, although the last step still needs to be optimized for better whitening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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888 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fabrication of Aluminum-Based Hybrid Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye: A Techno-Economic Approach

by Samuel Demarema, Amal Abdelhaleem, Shinichi Ookawara and Mahmoud Nasr

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14638 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 449

Abstract

Al₂O₃–MgO nanocomposite was synthesized using the co-precipitation method for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV–Vis light. Box–Behnken design (BBD) in response to surface methodology (RSM) was used for the optimization and modelling of the photocatalytic degradation [...] Read more.

Al₂O₃–MgO nanocomposite was synthesized using the co-precipitation method for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV–Vis light. Box–Behnken design (BBD) in response to surface methodology (RSM) was used for the optimization and modelling of the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a quadratic model with an R² of 0.9880. MB removal followed the first-order kinetic model (R² = 0.9520, k₁ = 0.007 min⁻¹). Economic feasibility study at optimized conditions showed that the wastewater treatment cost is USD 16.50/m³ and the payback period is 3.17 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1936 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Strategy for Revalorization of Cheese Whey Streams to Produce Phenyllactic Acid

by Haritha Meruvu

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14708 - 18 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 620

Abstract

Cheese whey (CW) is the residual liquid waste from cheese manufacturing industries, and it is rich in diverse nutrients with the potential for usage as a growth matrix for sustaining lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation. Lactic acid (LA), phenyllactic acid (PLA), and their [...] Read more.

Cheese whey (CW) is the residual liquid waste from cheese manufacturing industries, and it is rich in diverse nutrients with the potential for usage as a growth matrix for sustaining lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation. Lactic acid (LA), phenyllactic acid (PLA), and their derivatives are green chemicals that can be produced by LAB metabolism with the revalorization of CW. LA and PLA are known for their antimicrobial properties, immunoregulatory functions, and production of biobased polymers (biodegradable plastics) like poly lactic acid and poly-phenyl lactic acid; hence, they find numerous applications in agricultural/food-based, pharmaceutical, biochemistry, or medical fields, as well as in antibiotic supplements in livestock feeds for animal husbandry. Herewith, we discuss our experimental strategy/concept (that can be implemented) for the microbial fermentation of cheese whey streams using robust LAB co-cultures to produce 3-PLA through sequential steps, adding a note upon their possible applications hereof. It is proposed that various food matrices, like raw cow milk, fermented cow milk, and fermented table olives, will be screened for the isolation of robust lactic acid bacteria that can be used as starter cultures for the fermentation of cheese whey liquids for producing augmented levels of LA and/or PLA. Moreover, we discuss the feasibility of practically producing PLA using an orchestrated assemblage of simple procedures, viz., isolating robust LAB strains from natural food matrices, tailoring LAB growth using a selective medium sustenance, adopting adaptive evolution procedures for improving resistance to higher temperatures and tolerance to lactic acid and/or cheese whey (low-cost substrate), and using FTIR and HPLC tools for analyzing the PLA content produced. Two Lactobacillus isolates (CM30_001 and CMW_10−3), sourced from raw cow milk and fermented cow milk whey, were found to produce 3-PLA contents of 39 mg/L and 32 mg/L in batch fermentation, using this proposed strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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234 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Potential Ecotoxicity of Cefepime Phototransformation Products

by Joanna Żandarek, Małgorzata Starek and Monika Dąbrowska

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14678 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 451

Abstract

Drugs are an important problem in the pollution of the aquatic environment. Global drugs consumption and their use in human and veterinary medicine and agriculture are among the main sources of environmental pollution. Among the detected drugs, antibiotics are an important group, as [...] Read more.

Drugs are an important problem in the pollution of the aquatic environment. Global drugs consumption and their use in human and veterinary medicine and agriculture are among the main sources of environmental pollution. Among the detected drugs, antibiotics are an important group, as they have high biological activity and most of them dissolve well in water. The presence of antibiotics in the environment can adversely affect the organisms living in it—leading to reproductive, metabolic or histopathological disorders. Drugs entering aquatic systems can remain unchanged or, under the influence of various factors, undergo degradation or transformation processes. One of these phenomena is the process of phototransformation, as a result of which the resulting derivatives differ in physicochemical and pharmacological properties and toxicity from the parent compounds. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine the potential ecotoxicity of the degradation products of cefepime, fourth generation cephalosporins. Toxicity was assessed using in silico methods, and then microbiotests were performed: Daphotoxikit and Thamnotoxikit. The used tests allow for a simple and quick assessment of how the tested mixtures of substances affect the survival of bioindicators. In addition, there is no need for continuous culture of test organisms. The tests do not require ethics committee approval and comply with the 3Rs principle (reduction, replacement, refinement), which aims to reduce the use of laboratory animals. Data obtained during our preliminary studies indicate that mixtures of the parent compound and their photodegradation products are more toxic to the tested organisms than the parent compound. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

2690 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Predictive Evaluation of Atomic Layer Deposition Characteristics for Synthesis of Al₂O₃ thin Films

by Sachin Shendokar, Moha Feroz Hossen, Swapnil Nalawade, Shobha Mantripragada and Shyam Aravamudhan

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14631 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 582

Abstract

The atomic layer deposition (ALD) synthesis process is being heavily researched for its conformality, high aspect ratio with thickness control, selective area deposition versatility, and variety of low-temperature oxide, nitride, and transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) precursors for a multitude of applications. Repeatability and [...] Read more.

The atomic layer deposition (ALD) synthesis process is being heavily researched for its conformality, high aspect ratio with thickness control, selective area deposition versatility, and variety of low-temperature oxide, nitride, and transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) precursors for a multitude of applications. Repeatability and reproducibility are essential, along with large-scale deposition with high throughput from the commercialization perspective. JMP and Design of Experiment (DoE) are industrially practiced tools to study and reduce process variations. This research paper demonstrates the application of DoE in JMP for the predictive evaluation of ALD for the synthesis of Al₂O₃. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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863 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fault Detection of Multi-Rate Two Phase Reactor Condenser System with Recycle Using Multiple Probabilistic Principal Component Analysis

by Dhrumil Gandhi and Meka Srinivasarao

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14669 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 450

Abstract

Fault detection in multi-rate process systems is a challenging task. Common techniques used for fault detection include threshold-based detectors, statistical detectors, and machine learning-based detectors. One such statistical detector technique is multiple probabilistic principal component analysis (MPPCA). MPPCA uses probabilistic PCA to detect [...] Read more.

Fault detection in multi-rate process systems is a challenging task. Common techniques used for fault detection include threshold-based detectors, statistical detectors, and machine learning-based detectors. One such statistical detector technique is multiple probabilistic principal component analysis (MPPCA). MPPCA uses probabilistic PCA to detect fault signals from multiple sensors without down-sampling or up-sampling. This paper uses MPPCA to detect faults in a two-phase reactor–condenser system with recycle (TPRCR) with three measurement classes. These measurement data are used to build the MPPCA model using expectation maximization (EM). Based on this, T² and SPE statistics are generated for fault detection in TPRCR systems, and the MPPCA approach’s effectiveness for fault detection is satisfactory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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550 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modelling of Low-Temperature Sulphur Dioxide Removal Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS)

by Robert Makomere, Hilary Rutto, Lawrence Koech and Musamba Banza

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14619 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 429

Abstract

Empirical and machine learning models are estimation tools relevant to obtaining scalable solutions to engineering problems. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was incorporated to correlate the experimental findings based on mathematical models. Artificial neural networks (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems [...] Read more.

Empirical and machine learning models are estimation tools relevant to obtaining scalable solutions to engineering problems. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was incorporated to correlate the experimental findings based on mathematical models. Artificial neural networks (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS) were the artificial intelligence tools used to create trainable algorithms. Feed data consolidated hydration temperature (50 to 90 °C), hydration time (3 to 7 h), sulphation temperature (120 to 160 °C), diatomite to hydrated lime ratio (0 to 1), and inlet gas concentration (500 to 2500 ppm) were the independent variables mapped against sulphur capture capacity (

Y_{1}

—5 to 54%) and reagent utilisation (

Y_{2}

—4 to 42%) as the dependent variables. Statistical error techniques such as root mean square (RMSE), mean square error (MSE), and the coefficient of determination (R²) were used to quantify the model accuracy and cost analysis. The ANN models presented more acceptable and reliable predicted data, with R² values greater than 99% compared to the RSM and ANFIS models. The ANFIS models showed overfitting deficiencies that affected learning and training. These findings suggest that the ANN models are a more suitable option for accurate and dependable data estimation in similar engineering applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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472 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Artificial Intelligence Application in Supply Chain Management in the Government Sector of Pakistan

by Syed Asad Abbas Bokhari, Kanika Duggal and Seunghwan Myeong

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14697 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1110

Abstract

As the world is becoming more digital, private companies are now using cutting-edge technologies to streamline their operations and increase public trust. In countries like Pakistan, where the government is in charge of most public services, technological adoption is premature for a number [...] Read more.

As the world is becoming more digital, private companies are now using cutting-edge technologies to streamline their operations and increase public trust. In countries like Pakistan, where the government is in charge of most public services, technological adoption is premature for a number of reasons. This study identified the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in five different management components, such as demand management, procurement management, logistics management, disposal management, and risk management which contribute to enhancing overall supply chain management performance in the public sector. Research found that bureaucracy is the crucial adoption barrier that existed in Pakistan’s public distribution systems, with AI being the most popular technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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7018 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

X-ray Microtomography as a Non-Invasive Method for Evaluating the Stability of Commercial Effervescent Tablets

by Michał Meisner, Piotr Duda, Beata Szulc-Musioł and Beata Sarecka-Hujar

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14617 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 382

Abstract

In the present study, a non-invasive X-ray microtomography technique was applied to assess the internal structure of commercial effervescent tablets with vitamin C. Expired tablets stored under ambient conditions were analyzed and the results obtained were compared with unexpired tablets. Significantly higher density [...] Read more.

In the present study, a non-invasive X-ray microtomography technique was applied to assess the internal structure of commercial effervescent tablets with vitamin C. Expired tablets stored under ambient conditions were analyzed and the results obtained were compared with unexpired tablets. Significantly higher density values were found for the unexpired tablets (1.250 g/cm³) compared to the expired tablets (1.242 g/cm³). The results indicate a better homogeneity of the unexpired tablets, which may affect their mechanical strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2353 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Effect of Homogenized Biosolution Allocation in the Digestate on Reducing Ammonia Emissions

by Vilma Naujokienė, Edmundas Stankevičius and Egidijus Šarauskis

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14742 - 31 May 2023

Viewed by 367

Abstract

Digestate (anaerobic ferment) is an organic substance remaining after the anaerobic processing of organic matter or biodegradable waste—biogas extraction or anaerobic alcoholic fermentation— or bioethanol extraction. Biogas production waste digestate is a valuable fertilizer in agriculture, but there are issues with odor emissions. [...] Read more.

Digestate (anaerobic ferment) is an organic substance remaining after the anaerobic processing of organic matter or biodegradable waste—biogas extraction or anaerobic alcoholic fermentation— or bioethanol extraction. Biogas production waste digestate is a valuable fertilizer in agriculture, but there are issues with odor emissions. Therefore, in order to reduce environmental air pollution, the efficiency of integrating a homogenized biosolution—an activator of rotting residues into the digestate for ammonia emission—was evaluated via scientific studies of ammonia gas emission. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of a homogenized biosolution—the rotting residue activator (carrier molasses without GMO) in the digestate—on reducing ammonia emissions. The assessment of ammonia gas emission was performed by measuring the average ammonia concentration values fixed in time intervals every 15 min via the automatic switching of the analyzer channels, in order to first assess the sudden immediate effect of the biosolution and the regular gradual long-term effect. After evaluating the average concentration and emission of ammonia gas from the control and digestate with biosolutions depending on the duration of digestate storage, the correlation of the values compared with each other was established and the effect of the allocation of the biosolution—the rotting residue activator in the digestate—on the reduction of ammonia concentration and emission was recorded. The highest efficiency of the biosolution in reducing ammonia emissions ranged from 3 to 43% in the period from 1 to 100 h, which reached up to 450,000 mg m⁻²h⁻¹. After evaluating the overall average reduction in ammonia emissions from the digestate with the biosolution over the entire period, the essential effect of the use of biosolutions was proven and the highest effect was recorded in the first 24 h after the allocation of the biosolution—the activator of rotting residues in the digestate. Thus, supplementing the digestate with various nutrients and specialized biosolutions provides an even better fertilizing value and even better prospects for reducing odor emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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3404 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Novel Immobilized Titanium Dioxide onto Peanut Shell-Based Activated Carbon for Advance Oxidation Process Coupled with Response Surface Models in Organic Wastewater Treatment

by Kingsley Safo, Mavis Berko and Hillarus Dela Gohoho

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14681 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 523

Abstract

This work focuses on how to best degrade organic pollutants from wastewater by immobilizing TiO₂ on activated carbon peanut shells (ACPNS) using the co-precipitation method in a hydrothermal process under simulated solar light for the first time. The produced ACPNS–TiO₂ shows [...] Read more.

This work focuses on how to best degrade organic pollutants from wastewater by immobilizing TiO₂ on activated carbon peanut shells (ACPNS) using the co-precipitation method in a hydrothermal process under simulated solar light for the first time. The produced ACPNS–TiO₂ shows a high degradation efficiency of MB dye molecules under a response surface optimization model. The degradation efficiency of the 5th repeated cycle of the ACPNS–TiO₂ was 74.64%, indicating good reusability of the material. This work showed that ACPNS–TiO₂ might be effectively used for industrial wastewater treatment reducing the overall cost of pure chemicals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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474 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Energy-Saving Techniques in the Next Generation of Mobile Communication Networks

by Viroslava Kapustynska

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14722 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 438

Abstract

The generalized integration of new communication technologies is expected to improve the lives of humans and edge us closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the next ten years. People will benefit from the rapid exchange of information, high-speed data transfer, the [...] Read more.

The generalized integration of new communication technologies is expected to improve the lives of humans and edge us closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the next ten years. People will benefit from the rapid exchange of information, high-speed data transfer, the high-quality protection of uploaded and transmitted information, greater accessibility to medicine, the development of smart cities and homes, etc. But there are factors that significantly hinder the spread of fifth-generation mobile networks, the most critical being the high energy consumption that comes with the rapidly growing number of devices, machines, and mobile subscribers. Most often, base stations always operate at full capacity, but there are statistics that show that the flow of base station clients is not always the same, so energy consumption may be managed. It was found that cell zooming algorithms that mostly consider client flow can save 14–80% of base station power consumption; however, not all studies pay attention to the quality of service. By balancing energy saving and the quality of service, base station energy savings of about 15% can be achieved. In modern research, dynamic network scaling algorithms are more often presented, and location management investigation has been identified as a solution that can help improve energy-saving techniques and keep the quality of service at the optimal level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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6 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Green and Cost-Effective Synthesis of Sulfamidophosphonates Using ZnO Nanoparticles as Catalyst

by Rayenne Redjemia, Malika Berredjem and Rania Bahadi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14733 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 396

Abstract

A simple and efficient protocol for the one-pot three-component synthesis of structurally diverse sulfamidophosphonates from the condensation of sulfanilamide, aldehydes, and triethylphosphite in ethanol using ZnO nanoparticles as catalysts under microwave irradiation has been developed. The structures of all compounds have been identified [...] Read more.

A simple and efficient protocol for the one-pot three-component synthesis of structurally diverse sulfamidophosphonates from the condensation of sulfanilamide, aldehydes, and triethylphosphite in ethanol using ZnO nanoparticles as catalysts under microwave irradiation has been developed. The structures of all compounds have been identified by appropriate spectroscopic methods such as FTIR, ¹H, ¹³C, ³¹P NMR and ESI-MS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1239 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Aquila-Based Model Predictive Control of an Adapted Fridge Display Case Model for Vaccine Preservation

by Adesola T. Bankole, Habeeb Bello-Salau and Zaharudeen Haruna

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14665 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 351

Abstract

Temperature excursions and vaccine freezing are the results of poor temperature control systems used in the vaccine cold chain. The use of medium-temperature fridges due to inadequate vaccine refrigerators has had great negative impacts on the coverage of national immunization programs in developing [...] Read more.

Temperature excursions and vaccine freezing are the results of poor temperature control systems used in the vaccine cold chain. The use of medium-temperature fridges due to inadequate vaccine refrigerators has had great negative impacts on the coverage of national immunization programs in developing countries, as many vaccines are often wasted due to loss of vaccine potency, thereby leading to wastage of investment. To surmount these challenges, an adapted fridge display case model using an Aquila-based model predictive control strategy for preserving vaccines at the correct temperature range of 2 °C and 8 °C is proposed. Temperature responses using an Aquila-based model predictive controller (AO-MPC) was compared with a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. Simulation results show that AO-MPC has better capability in mitigating the problem of accidental freezing and temperature excursion by keeping the vaccine temperature at 5.8 °C, even in the presence of additive disturbances, while the PID controller has oscillations for about 4.5 h before settling at 8 °C. MATLAB 2020a was used to perform all simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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10 pages, 2221 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Trajectory Tracking of a Data-Based Model of a Two-Link Robotic Manipulator Using Model Predictive Controller

by Adesola T. Bankole, Muhammed B. Mu’azu and Ezekiel E. C. Igbonoba

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14698 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 587

Abstract

To achieve accurate position tracking, there is a need to develop high-fidelity robot arm models that are compliant and affordable. However, physics-based models are constrained by their stiffness and complexity. Therefore, reduced-order modelling developed from data through sub-space system identification is proposed as [...] Read more.

To achieve accurate position tracking, there is a need to develop high-fidelity robot arm models that are compliant and affordable. However, physics-based models are constrained by their stiffness and complexity. Therefore, reduced-order modelling developed from data through sub-space system identification is proposed as a solution to this problem. A high-fidelity simulation model of a two-link robot arm developed in MATLAB and Simulink was used to generate synthetic data, and the data acquired was used for the estimation and validation of first- and second-order linear state-space models. Due to its effective tracking characteristics, the model predictive control technique was used for trajectory tracking. The results of the simulations demonstrate that the first-order and second-order models can track the intended set points accurately but at the cost of larger joint torques required to counteract gravity. The results show that low-order and data-compliant models can follow trajectories with high precision. MATLAB 2020a was used for all simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1263 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing a Relationship between Ore Feed Grade and Flotation Performance

by Mahlogonolo Nkadimeng, Malibongwe S. Manono and Kirsten C. Corin

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14651 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 579

Abstract

Despite topical research, the study of flotation systems remains complex, multifaceted and water-intensive. Numerous physical and chemical factors are involved in the recovery of valuable minerals by flotation. While the chemistry of a system can be manipulated to improve the performance, the system [...] Read more.

Despite topical research, the study of flotation systems remains complex, multifaceted and water-intensive. Numerous physical and chemical factors are involved in the recovery of valuable minerals by flotation. While the chemistry of a system can be manipulated to improve the performance, the system is limited by the mineralogy of the incoming ore and the quality of the process water, which in most cases is not controlled. Recycling of onsite process water has become the norm for many operations; this recycling changes the water quality over time and may compromise the flotation process. This study seeks to understand the impact of ore feed grade on froth stability, entrainment, and flotation performance under varying water quality. The overarching aim is the development of a relationship through which the flotation performance may be predicted if the ore feed grade and water quality are known. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1072 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Aspen Plus Modelling and Simulation of Supercritical Steam and Poultry Litter Gasification for the Production of Hydrogen Fuel and Electricity

by Ahmed Mohammed Inuwa, Isaac Jato and Saidat Olanipekun Giwa

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14723 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 1033

Abstract

Because more than 75% of the world’s energy needs are currently met by fossil fuels, the growing worry about climate change as well as the depletion of hydrocarbon resources has compelled scientists worldwide to discover alternative sources of renewable and sustainable energy. Hence, [...] Read more.

Because more than 75% of the world’s energy needs are currently met by fossil fuels, the growing worry about climate change as well as the depletion of hydrocarbon resources has compelled scientists worldwide to discover alternative sources of renewable and sustainable energy. Hence, it has become necessary to reduce the negative effects of disposing poultry litter thereby converting it to value added product such as hydrogen fuel. By extracting energy from feedstock through the thermal gasification process, this research aims to address waste management and reduce environmental impacts. High-hydrogen feedstock is widely available. Waste poultry (biomass) and steam were used as the gasification agent in Aspen PLUS^® version V 11.0 software during the modelling and simulation of the process. According to the outcome, 1000 kg/h and 2500 kg/h of the poultry litter and steam were able to yield 1220 kg/h of hydrogen and 2500 kwh of electricity. This identified poultry litter as a promising candidate to reduce fossil fuel dependency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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818 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Macrophytic Vegetation of River Ethiope at the Umuaja Ukwani Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria

by Prosper Onochie and Elohor-Oghene Amarie

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14650 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 792

Abstract

This abstract presents an overview of aquatic macrophytes and their importance for the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. It also discusses the effect of water quality and nutrient enrichment on macrophyte distribution, and the development of survey and monitoring techniques for characterizing [...] Read more.

This abstract presents an overview of aquatic macrophytes and their importance for the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. It also discusses the effect of water quality and nutrient enrichment on macrophyte distribution, and the development of survey and monitoring techniques for characterizing waterside habitats. Finally, it highlights the need for detailed data for detecting changes at individual sites. Physicochemical parameters are major factors when considering the quality of water samples with the presence of macrophytes in an aquatic ecosystem. A study carried out from January to March in 2019 shows that the mean value of the water temperature was the highest in February, with a mean value of 26.5 °C; the PH, alkalinity, sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and nitrate (NO₃⁻) were the highest in January, while the conductivity, total hardness of the water, magnesium, biological oxygen demand (BOD), and phosphate were the highest in March. Moreover, the water was 100% transparent during the whole study period. Twelve (12) macrophytes belonging to ten (10) families were encountered. The most abundant macrophytes encountered were the species Bumbusa vulgaris (Poaceae family). A single emergent macrophyte Ipomoea aquatic (Convolvulaceae family) was encountered. Free-floating and submerged macrophytes were absent due to the high flow rate of the river. It was observed that the physiocochemical parameters of River Ethiope fall under the normal range of good quality water, supporting Macrophytic vegetation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1381 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Antimicrobial Activity of Natural Extracts: The Problem of Mathematical Modeling

by Aurora Silva, Catarina Lourenço-Lopes, Maria Carpena, Paula Garcia-Oliveira, Javier Echave, Franklin Chamorro, Paula Barciela, Jesús Simal-Gandara, Maria Fátima Barroso and Miguel Angel Prieto

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14675 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 503

Abstract

The antimicrobial activity of plants, algae, and derived extracts has been a subject of interest for the scientific community. Algae extracts have demonstrated their potential as a source of natural antimicrobial agents. Because of their antibacterial capacity and low toxicity, algae extracts have [...] Read more.

The antimicrobial activity of plants, algae, and derived extracts has been a subject of interest for the scientific community. Algae extracts have demonstrated their potential as a source of natural antimicrobial agents. Because of their antibacterial capacity and low toxicity, algae extracts have been studied as natural preservatives in food and cosmetic formulations. The use of these extracts has the potential to minimize the use of synthetic preservatives, which may be harmful to both human health and the environment. Nonetheless, the use of end-point techniques to calculate the minimal inhibitory concentration instead of creating growth inhibition curves usually leads to an absence of mathematical modeling procedures on the bacterial inhibition behavior of natural extracts. The goal of mathematical modeling is to describe the relationship between the concentration of an inhibitory agent (such as a drug or a toxin) and the growth rate of a population. For this purpose, the data obtained during the growth of six different bacteria in the presence of different concentrations of Ascophyllum nodosum (L.) extracts were recorded over 24 h. Later, the collected data were modeled based on different classical sigmoidal models, e.g., Weibull, logistic, and Gompertz, that were applied to define the critical growth phases and infer the kinetic parameters. The obtained parameters led to the conclusion that the inhibition mechanisms behind the antibacterial effects of the algae extracts are diverse towards different microorganisms. The presence of the extract led to a diminution of the specific growth velocity in some cases such as Staphylococcus epidermidis while in the replication of other bacteria such as Bacillus cereus, the extension of the lag phase was the predominant inhibition mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2379 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Characterization and Environmental Application Potential of Banana Peels Biochar

by Ghenwa Kataya, May Issa, Mejdi Jeguirim and Akram Hijazi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14725 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 997

Abstract

This study investigated the characteristics of banana peel biochar (BPB) produced from two particle sizes of banana waste at varying temperatures. The biochar yield decreased with increasing temperature and decreasing particle size. Physicochemical analysis showed the presence of amorphous carbon, fullerene, and chaolite [...] Read more.

This study investigated the characteristics of banana peel biochar (BPB) produced from two particle sizes of banana waste at varying temperatures. The biochar yield decreased with increasing temperature and decreasing particle size. Physicochemical analysis showed the presence of amorphous carbon, fullerene, and chaolite in BPB produced at 500 °C. X-ray fluorescence(XRF) analysis showed high carbon, potassium, and chlorine percentages in BPB. BPB was found to be a promising adsorbent for copper (Cu²⁺) removal, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 54.9 mg/g and optimal Cu²⁺ concentrations for adsorption at 450 and 550 mg/L. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1873 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Electrical Resilience in Residential Microgrids Powered by Biogas Micro-Combined Heat and Power (Micro-CHP) Systems

by Iker De Loma-Osorio and David Borge-Diez

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14613 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 396

Abstract

The authors of this paper analyze the use of biogas-powered micro-Combined Heat and Power (micro-CHP) systems for residential microgrids to enhance their resilience during blackouts. With the increasing frequency of natural disasters, ensuring power system reliability has become a critical concern. Microgrids can [...] Read more.

The authors of this paper analyze the use of biogas-powered micro-Combined Heat and Power (micro-CHP) systems for residential microgrids to enhance their resilience during blackouts. With the increasing frequency of natural disasters, ensuring power system reliability has become a critical concern. Microgrids can provide a solution to this problem by integrating distributed energy resources and operating them independently of the grid. The authors of this paper investigate the design and implementation of biogas-powered micro-CHP systems for residential microgrids. The paper concludes with a discussion of the potential of biogas-powered micro-CHP systems as a key component of resilient and sustainable energy systems in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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370 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Nonlinear Model Predictive Control of Wine Fermentation Kinetics

by James Nelson, André Knoesen and Roger Boulton

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14703 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 444

Abstract

Most wine fermentations are completed in successive batches during a 2 month harvest period. Red wine fermentations are usually completed in 10 to 14 days, while white wine fermentations are completed in 21 to 24 days. The demand for resources—equipment, water, energy, labor, [...] Read more.

Most wine fermentations are completed in successive batches during a 2 month harvest period. Red wine fermentations are usually completed in 10 to 14 days, while white wine fermentations are completed in 21 to 24 days. The demand for resources—equipment, water, energy, labor, etc.—in a short time motivates the precise, automated control of the fermentation process. While the effects of temperature on wine chemistry are well studied, few advanced control strategies have been developed for the precise control of temperature for wine chemistry research. In this study, a nonlinear model predictive controller (NMPC) was developed to determine the temperature to achieve the desired fermentation rate. The controller was combined with a pulse cooling and heating strategy to improve the energy efficiency of temperature control. The feasibility of this approach is demonstrated by simulations and experiments in 15 L fermentations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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828 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimizing the Thermal Processing of Honey by Studying the Physicochemical Properties and Its Hydroxymethylfurfural Content

by Sepidar Seyyedi-Mansour, Pauline Donn, Paula Garcia-Oliveira, Javier Echave, Franklin Chamorro, Antia Gonzalez Pereira, Aurora Silva, Ana Perez-Vazquez, Jesus Simal-Gandara, Miguel A. Prieto and Leila Roufegarinejad

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14713 - 19 May 2023

Viewed by 374

Abstract

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a naturally occurring compound that arises because of the thermal processing and storage of honey. The Codex Alimentarius Commission has established a threshold of 40 ppm as the upper limit for the HMF content in honey. This research aimed to [...] Read more.

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a naturally occurring compound that arises because of the thermal processing and storage of honey. The Codex Alimentarius Commission has established a threshold of 40 ppm as the upper limit for the HMF content in honey. This research aimed to investigate the impacts of varying heating temperatures (55, 65, and 75 °C) and heating times (10, 20, and 30 min), as well as storage temperatures (25 and 40 °C), over a period of three months. The study employed the response surface methodology (RSM) to evaluate the outcomes. The impacts of the variables mentioned above on the physicochemical properties, including the Lab color factors, pH, and moisture, were determined. Additionally, the concentration of HMF in the samples was analyzed. The prediction model of each treatment was computed. Analyses of the results obtained after the storage periods of 45 and 90 days were conducted. The findings indicated that pH, moisture content, and color were not significantly influenced by temperature, the duration of heat treatment, or the storage time. However, storage temperature considerably impacted both L* and a*. Furthermore, it was observed that all the variables significantly influenced the HMF content, and its concentration increased with the escalation of thermal processing and storage duration. Within the examined samples, the HMF content surpassed the standard limit in the model subjected to heating at 75 °C for 20 min and maintained at 40 °C for 90 days. In contrast, heating at 55 °C for 10 min, followed by storage at 25 °C for 45 days, produced the optimal HMF level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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575 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Physicochemical, Microbiological, and Sensory Characterization of Halloumi Cheese Fortified with Garlic (Allium sativum) and Pepper (Piper nigrum)

by Aravindi Nipunika Gamage, Rajivini Jeyasiri, Dinelka Dananji Hettiarachchi, Sachini Sandaranga Munasinghe and Nadeesha Dilrukshi

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14633 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 509

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a Halloumi cheese using cow’s milk and fortify it with garlic and pepper to evaluate its physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties. The developed Halloumi cheese showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in its total solids, protein, [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop a Halloumi cheese using cow’s milk and fortify it with garlic and pepper to evaluate its physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties. The developed Halloumi cheese showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in its total solids, protein, fat, and ash contents, and a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in moisture and pH during a 35-day storage period. The textural properties of the cheese were significantly affected (p < 0.05) by the storage period. The microbiological shelf life of the Halloumi cheese was 21 days in refrigerated conditions. In sensory evaluation, the cheese fortified with the spice powder mixture received higher consumer acceptance than nonfortified Halloumi cheese. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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545 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Pangenome Analysis and Physiological Characterization of Gordonia alkanivorans Strains Capable of Utilizing Persistent Organic Pollutants

by Ekaterina Frantsuzova, Alexander Bogun, Lidiya Shishkina, Anna Vetrova, Inna Solyanikova and Yanina Delegan

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14689 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 597

Abstract

Members of many species of the genus Gordonia are known for their ability to utilize compounds of different structures. The aim of the work was to study the ability of nine G. alkanivorans strains to degrade persistent organic pollutants and to analyze the [...] Read more.

Members of many species of the genus Gordonia are known for their ability to utilize compounds of different structures. The aim of the work was to study the ability of nine G. alkanivorans strains to degrade persistent organic pollutants and to analyze the genomic peculiarities of these strains. The genomes of nine Gordonia alkanivorans strains were sequenced and assembled. Based on the unique genes in the genomes, the strains can be divided into two subgroups. The strains can be used in biotechnologies of the environmental treatment as alkane degraders. Additionally, they all utilize benzoate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2223 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Performance Optimization Method of Steam Generator Liquid Level Control Based on Hybrid Iterative Model Reconstruction

by Xiaoyu Li, Xiangsong Kong, Changqing Shi, Jinguang Shi and Zean Yang

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14628 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 328

Abstract

The steam generator is an important piece of energy exchange equipment for nuclear power plants, and the level control of the steam generator plays a key role in the stable operation of the plants. To improve the level control performance of the steam [...] Read more.

The steam generator is an important piece of energy exchange equipment for nuclear power plants, and the level control of the steam generator plays a key role in the stable operation of the plants. To improve the level control performance of the steam generator, it is necessary to adjust the parameters of the level control system during the commissioning process of nuclear power plants. However, the parameter setting process relies heavily on the experience of engineers, requires a lot of historical data, and is difficult to ensure the best. To address these issues, this paper proposes a hybrid iterative model reconstruction-based steam generator level control performance optimization method based on the idea of data-driven optimization. The method proposes a fusion idea and implementation mechanism in which process data and the hybrid model are jointly driven under the data-driven framework to maximize the advantages of different modeling mechanisms to achieve the performance optimization of a steam generator level control system. The method first constructs the initial dataset with a small-sample Latin-square experiment design and then builds two different fitting models, SVM and Kriging, based on the initial dataset respectively, under the hybrid model fusion idea. After that, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to calculate the optimal point of the current valid model, and the optimization process is controlled by establishing the iteration termination judgment based on the historical iteration data. Then, the current iteration point is used to dynamically reconstruct the two types of models. Finally, the two types of models are dynamically reconstructed using the current iteration points. The above process is iterated until the optimal iterative process of the system is satisfied. From the experimental results, it can be seen that compared with two types of single-model optimization methods, this method can reduce the iteration final value by 13.57% and 16.27%, respectively, with a slightly increased number of iterations. These results indicate that this method can significantly improve the efficiency of optimizing the control performance of the steam generator liquid level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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862 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhanced Removal of Cr (VI) from Wastewater with Green and Low-Cost Nanomaterials Using a Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN)

by Musamba Banza and Tumisang Seodigeng

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14677 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 398

Abstract

In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) were used to predict the adsorption potential of an adsorbent for the removal of chromium (VI) from an aqueous solution. Four operational variables were studied to assess their [...] Read more.

In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) were used to predict the adsorption potential of an adsorbent for the removal of chromium (VI) from an aqueous solution. Four operational variables were studied to assess their impact on the adsorption study in the ANFIS model: initial Ni (II) concentration (mg/L), pH, contact duration (min), and adsorbent dose (mg/L). To build the ANN model, 70% of the data was used for training and 15% for testing and validation. The network was trained using feedforward propagation and the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm. The regression coefficients (R²) for the ANFIS and ANN models were 0.99 and 0.98, respectively. The results show good agreement between the model-predicted and experimental data, indicating that the models are appropriate and compatible. The RMSE between the predicted and observed removal percentage values for the ANFIS model was 0.008, whereas the RMSE for the ANN model was 0.06. The AARE values between the predicted and experimental removal percentage values for the ANFIS and ANN models were determined to be 0.009 and 0.045, respectively. The MSE vales between the predicted and experimental removal percentages for the ANFIS and ANN models were found to be 0.002 and 0.035, respectively. The optimum conditions were as follows: pH 6, an initial concentration of 275 mg/L, a contact time of 60 min, and a dosage of 12.5 mg/L; the absorption was 91.00%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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603 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Insight into Steam Explosion Pretreatment of Sugarcane Bagasse for Bioethanol Production

by Paula Barciela, Ana Perez-Vazquez, Maria Carpena, Sepidar Seyyedi-Mansour, Pauline Donn, Maria Fraga-Corral, Paz Otero, Jianbo Xiao, Jesus Simal-Gandara, Miguel A. Prieto and Lucia Cassani

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14673 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 730

Abstract

Lignocellulosic biomass is a powerful material for producing sustainable biofuels because it can be converted into second-generation clean energy capable of coping with the depletion of fossil reserves and rising energy demands. However, pretreatment is required in the conversion process to overcome the [...] Read more.

Lignocellulosic biomass is a powerful material for producing sustainable biofuels because it can be converted into second-generation clean energy capable of coping with the depletion of fossil reserves and rising energy demands. However, pretreatment is required in the conversion process to overcome the recalcitrance of the lignocellulosic biomass; accelerate its disintegration into cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin; and obtain an optimal yield of fermentable sugars in the enzymatic hydrolysis. Steam explosion technology has stood out due to its results and advantages, such as broad applicability, high efficiency in the short term, and lack of contamination. This gentle and quick pretreatment combines high-temperature autohydrolysis and structural alteration via explosive decompression. So, steam at high pressure (1–3.5 MPa) and temperature (180–240 °C) is pressed into the cell walls and plant tissues for a duration of seconds (30 s) to several minutes (20 min). In this aspect, sugarcane bagasse is a promising feedstock for bioethanol production due to its high cellulosic content and availability. Finally, the pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse by applying steam explosion seems to be a feasible economic option for bioethanol production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2148 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Photocatalytic Degradation and Defluorination of Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) Using Biosynthesized TiO₂ Nanoparticles under UV–Visible Light

by Mustapha Saheed, Tijani Jimoh Oladejo, Elabor Rabi, Etsuyankpa Muhammed Binin, Amigun Azeezah Taiwo, Shuaib Damola Taye, Sumaila Abdulmumuni, Olaoye Adekunle Jelili, Abubakar Hassana Ladio, Abdulkareem Saka Abdulkareem and Ndamitso Muhammed Muhammed

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14630 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 586

Abstract

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are recalcitrant chemicals with stable carbon–fluorine (C–F) bonds. These complex substances are difficult to degrade; therefore, they persist in the environment, causing potential health effects on humans. This study focused on the photocatalytic degradation and defluorination of perfluorooctane [...] Read more.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are recalcitrant chemicals with stable carbon–fluorine (C–F) bonds. These complex substances are difficult to degrade; therefore, they persist in the environment, causing potential health effects on humans. This study focused on the photocatalytic degradation and defluorination of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in aqueous water using TiO₂ nanoparticles under UV–visible light. The biosynthesized TiO₂ catalysts at pH 8, 10, and 12 were characterized using XRD, HRTEM, and HRSEM. The XRD patterns of the respective TiO₂ nanoparticles at different synthesized pHs exhibited similar anatase phases, and it was observed that the crystallite sizes decreased with increasing pH. The HRSEM and HRTEM confirmed the spherical shapes of the produced nanoparticles with particle size distributions of 12.17 nm, 10.65 nm, and 8.81 nm for the synthesized TiO₂ nanoparticles at pH 8, 10, and 12, respectively. The photodegradation and defluorination of PFOS were performed at various initial solution pH values of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 under UV irradiation for 150 min. The study showed 95.62 and 56.13% degradation and defluorination efficiency at pH 2. The degradation and defluorination efficiencies significantly decreased as the pH of the solution increased; hence, the degradation increases at lower solution pHs. Without UV–visible light, the photocatalysis achieved a lower degradation and defluorination efficiency. The photocatalysis showed that the pH of the solution and UV irradiation greatly influence the degradation and defluorination. Therefore, TiO₂ nanoparticles were effective for the degradation and defluorination of PFOS under UV–visible light, which could also have an influence on the treatment of other PFASs in wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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913 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Supercritical Fluid Extraction as a Potential Extraction Technique for the Food Industry

by Ana Perez-Vazquez, Paula Barciela, Maria Carpena, Pauline Donn, Sepidar Seyyedi-Mansour, Hui Cao, Maria Fraga-Corral, Paz Otero, Jesus Simal-Gandara, Mguel A. Prieto and Lucia Cassani

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14674 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 737

Abstract

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is a non-conventional extraction technique that can be used in the food industry because it can recover both polar and non-polar compounds. This technique is carried out above the critical point of the extraction solvent, allowing for the control [...] Read more.

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) is a non-conventional extraction technique that can be used in the food industry because it can recover both polar and non-polar compounds. This technique is carried out above the critical point of the extraction solvent, allowing for the control and manipulation of different properties, such as diffusivity, viscosity, and density. This is possible due to the fluid’s changes in pressure and temperature that cause variations in selectivity and power. This eco-friendly extraction technique has several advantages, including high selectivity due to changes in pressure and temperature, as well as changes in the solvent’s polarity by adding co-solvents. SFE has already been used in the food industry due to the benefits of this technique and its suitability for both polar and non-polar compound extraction. The goal of this work is to compile the most recent data on SFE applications in the food industry, thereby providing insight into SFE feasibility in a large-scale process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2482 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Performance of Venturi Microbubble Generator Type with a 60° Twisted Baffles

by Fatma Roshanti, Sigit Deddy Purnomo Sidhi, Samsul Kamal, Deendarlianto and Indarto

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14680 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 961

Abstract

Due to their unique physical properties, microbubbles have received a lot of attention in waste treatment, aquaculture, and food processing. The demand for high-efficient and low power consumption microbubble generators has become a challenge today. Swirling flow has been widely proven to improve [...] Read more.

Due to their unique physical properties, microbubbles have received a lot of attention in waste treatment, aquaculture, and food processing. The demand for high-efficient and low power consumption microbubble generators has become a challenge today. Swirling flow has been widely proven to improve bubble formation. Numerous researchers have developed designs to produce swirl flow and strengthen the turbulence fluid flow. In this study, we present a swirl venturi microbubble generator with a 60° twisted baffle fin on the inlet section. The performance of the microbubble generator swirl venturi type was tested experimentally using parameters such as the distribution of bubble size, hydraulic power (L_w), and bubble-generating efficiency (η_b). A microbubble generator was installed in the transparent test pool with 672 L of water. A high-speed video camera was employed to visualize the flow behavior. The water and gas flow rates varied between 40 and 60 lpm and 0.1 and 0.5 lpm, respectively. The data were analyzed by MATLAB R2022b with the technique image processing method. The results showed that majority bubbles 100–300 µm were generated. An increased water flow rate (Q_L) will increase the hydraulic power by 22–27 W, while an enlargement of the gas flow rate (Q_G) would only enlarge it by 1 W. As the water flow rate increases, bubble-generating efficiency decreases. The lowest bubble-generating efficiency of 0.008% occurs at a Q_L 60 lpm and Q_G of 0.1 lpm. In conclusion, we can conclude that the microbubble generator swirl venturi type is an efficient device for generating microbubbles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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623 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Benefits and Drawbacks of Incorporating Grape Seeds into Bakery Products: Is It Worth It?

by Javier Echave, Aurora Silva, Antia G. Pereira, Paula Garcia-Oliveira, Maria Fraga-Corral, Paz Otero, Lucia Cassani, Hui Cao, Jesus Simal-Gandara, Miguel A. Prieto and Jianbo Xiao

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14676 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 617

Abstract

Grapes are the third most produced fruit in the world, owing to their taste and use as raw materials for winemaking. Due to this fact, large volumes of waste biomass are generated as a result of grape juice and wine production, mainly grape [...] Read more.

Grapes are the third most produced fruit in the world, owing to their taste and use as raw materials for winemaking. Due to this fact, large volumes of waste biomass are generated as a result of grape juice and wine production, mainly grape seeds (GS) and peels. In recent decades, scientific research has highlighted the high content of polyphenols in GS, especially condensed tannins, and resveratrol. These compounds have been associated to various potential benefits to human health, such as antioxidant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic or anti-inflammatory bioactivities, among others. GS polyphenols may be incorporated into functional foods. Flour in wheat-based bakery products especially appears to be an attractive option. Two strategies may be followed. On one hand, the incorporation of GS flour increases the fiber, mineral, and protein content of bakery products, as well as their hardness and phenolic content. However, it seems that consumers may accept up to 10% of GS flour, since higher doses strongly diminish the organoleptic properties of the product. The other alternative involves the incorporation of polyphenol-rich GS extracts into bakery formulations, which would transfer their beneficial bioactivities to the final product. Nonetheless, this method is more laborious since it requires a prior chemical extraction of GS, and the control and addition of a safe, food-grade extract into the flour. Both strategies have been reported to increase the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of bakery products. The direct incorporation of GS flour is affordable for industries, while the incorporation of polyphenol-rich extracts leads to the development of functional products with additional beneficial properties. This work discusses the benefits and potential hurdles of functional bakery products with incorporated GS flour and extracts, based on up-to-date evidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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599 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Supercritical Fluid CO₂ Extraction Technology to Produce an Innovative Healthy Product from Almond Wastes

by Franklin Chamorro, Javier Echave, Miguel. A. Prieto, Jesus Simal-Gandara and Paz Otero

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14712 - 19 May 2023

Viewed by 678

Abstract

In this work, we studied the potential of supercritical fluid CO₂ technology to extract almond wastes and obtain a fibre product rich in minerals and phenolics without the use of an extraction co-solvent. The analysis of phenolics in the resulting extracted product [...] Read more.

In this work, we studied the potential of supercritical fluid CO₂ technology to extract almond wastes and obtain a fibre product rich in minerals and phenolics without the use of an extraction co-solvent. The analysis of phenolics in the resulting extracted product was performed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and showed vanillin, catechin, and dihydroxybenzoic, vanillic, and syringic acids as main phenolic compounds (PC). In addition, the analysis of minerals carried out using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) showed a wide range of macroelements like magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) in quantities of up to 1.7 g/kg (Mg) and 6 g/kg (K), representing a value matrix that may be integrated into functional drinks targeting athletic people while promoting a circular economy and food up-cycling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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586 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modeling and Economic Optimization of a Hollow Fiber Membrane Module for CO₂ Separation Using Collocation Methods and Genetic Algorithms

by Quoc-Tuan Vuong and Tuan-Anh Nguyen

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14748 - 9 Jun 2023

Viewed by 394

Abstract

Hollow fiber membranes are frequently used to remove CO₂ gas during the gas sweetening process due to their advantages such as cost-efficiency, simplicity of operation and maintenance, and compact size. Permeate flux behavior, which is governed by various factors such as membrane [...] Read more.

Hollow fiber membranes are frequently used to remove CO₂ gas during the gas sweetening process due to their advantages such as cost-efficiency, simplicity of operation and maintenance, and compact size. Permeate flux behavior, which is governed by various factors such as membrane features and operating conditions, has a significant impact on the performance of membrane separation. The majority of existing research studies focused on enhancing the permeability and selectivity of membranes. The configuration and operation of membrane modules have received scant attention in investigation. The geometrical layout and operational parameters of a membrane module were taken into account as a multivariable optimization problem in this study. The total annual cost serves as the objective function. A construction expenditure based on the size of the membrane plant plus an operational expense related to energy usage make up the total cost. The module dimensions (fiber diameter, fiber length, and packing density) and operating conditions (inlet pressure) were taken into consideration as the design factors in the optimization problem. The membrane area and energy consumption, which are directly related to the overall cost, were calculated using a model to simulate the membrane plant. To simulate multicomponent gas transport through hollow fiber modules, a membrane model with a high prediction accuracy was adapted from a previous work and solved numerically using an orthogonal collocation method. The optimization process was carried out using a genetic algorithm. This study also investigated how different parameters affect the overall cost. The accuracy of the self-developed computation program was checked with the results obtained from ChemBrane. The relative difference in the results obtained from our program and ChemBrane is less than 1%, suggesting the applicability of our model and program. The proposed optimization process is able to find the conditions of the module that meet the requirement of CO₂ concentration of effluent while minimizing the cost. The results suggest that the use of polyamides has a lower cost than the use of cellulose acetate membranes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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2930 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Accounting for Greenhouse Gas Emissions at Farm Level

by Vilma Naujokienė, Kristina Lekavičienė, Rolandas Bleizgys and Dainius Savickas

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14769 - 10 Jul 2023

Viewed by 311

Abstract

One of the main causes of climate change is greenhouse gases, which are dominated by an increased amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere. The agricultural sector is one of the most important sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The goal is to prepare [...] Read more.

One of the main causes of climate change is greenhouse gases, which are dominated by an increased amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere. The agricultural sector is one of the most important sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The goal is to prepare a calculation model system at farm level. When reducing GHG emissions, it is important to accurately determine gas emissions at farm level. While applying a GHG emissions accounting model, we aim to assess emission sources and apply effective measures to reduce gas emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1358 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Isolation and Characterization of Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria from the Rhizosphere of Chamaecytisus ruthenicus (Russian Broom) Growing in Chalky Soil

by Zekarias A. Asfha, Nataliya E. Suzina, Yulia Kocharovskaya, Yanina Delegan and Inna P. Solyanikova

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14709 - 19 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 512

Abstract

Plant growth-promoting (PGPR) bacteria are beneficial soil bacteria that enhance plant growth against biotic and abiotic stress. Numerous studies have been carried out over the past three decades on the isolation and characterization of rhizospheric bacteria. However, no studies have been conducted on [...] Read more.

Plant growth-promoting (PGPR) bacteria are beneficial soil bacteria that enhance plant growth against biotic and abiotic stress. Numerous studies have been carried out over the past three decades on the isolation and characterization of rhizospheric bacteria. However, no studies have been conducted on the bacteria present in the rhizosphere of the wild legume plant Chamacytisus ruthenicus when growing in chalky soil. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the abundance of culturable bacteria, assess the morphology of the bacterial cells, profile the chalky soil bacterial community, and characterize its ability to stimulate plant growth. Three soil samples were collected in January at a temperature of 2–4 °C. The first sample was taken from the topsoil, the second sample from the soil 15 cm beneath the surface, and the third sample from the rhizosphere. The results of the study revealed that the abundances of bacteria in the first, second, and third soil samples were 4.25 × 10⁸ cfu/g, 3.58 × 10⁸ cfu/g, and 10.1 × 10⁷ cfu/g, respectively. Furthermore, a total of 23 rhizospheric bacteria were isolated based on differences in their morphological characteristics. The 16S rRNA soil profiling result showed that bacteria belonging to Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Acidobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the most dominant groups in the community. Six bacterial isolates (Z10, Z11, Z12, Z15, Z26, and Z44) were chosen to examine the inhibition effects on phytopathogenic microbes and their ability to promote plant growth. The bacterial isolates Z11 and Z15 showed good inhibition against all tested phytopathogenic fungi, while bacterial isolates Z10, Z12, Z15, Z26, and Z44 showed stimulatory effects on the length and fresh weight of the shoots and roots of wheat, maize, and oat seeds. In conclusion, the present study is the first report of chalky soil-associated bacteria found in the rhizosphere of the wild legume plant in the Belgorod region of Russia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1500 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Two-Phase Stefan Problem for the Modeling of Urea Prilling Tower

by Kim Thanh Vy Ha, Tuan-Anh Nguyen, Quoc-Lan Nguyen, Van-Vinh Dang, Van-Han Dang, Hoang-Luan Van and Le-Na T. Pham

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14745 - 7 Jun 2023

Viewed by 379

Abstract

In the manufacturing of granular urea and ammonium nitrate, the technique of prilling is utilized rather frequently. The liquid droplets that are produced fall along the tower to the ground and become solid due to the removal of heat by the cooling air, [...] Read more.

In the manufacturing of granular urea and ammonium nitrate, the technique of prilling is utilized rather frequently. The liquid droplets that are produced fall along the tower to the ground and become solid due to the removal of heat by the cooling air, which flows in the opposite direction of the stream. Generally, three sequential thermal intervals for the solidification of urea droplets are considered: the cooling of liquid drops, solidification at the freezing temperature of the liquid phase, and cooling of complete solid particles. In this study, the solidification of the urea droplets was considered as a two-phase Stefan problem with a convective flux boundary condition rather than dividing the whole process into three sequential steps. The heat transfer problem was solved numerically using the enthalpy method. The particles were assumed to attain the terminal velocity immediately. The convective heat transfer was determined from the terminal velocity. The temperature distribution of the droplets and the minimum height for complete solidification at different particle diameters were investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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1600 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Grindability, Energy Requirements and Gravity Separation of Quartz from Blast Furnace Ironmaking Slag by Shaking Table and Falcon Concentrator

by Itumeleng Kohitlhetse, Hilary Rutto, Kentse Motsetse and Malibongwe Manono

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14691 - 17 May 2023

Viewed by 415

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the grindability and energy requirements for the liberation of quartz from blast furnace ironmaking slag. Furthermore, the study investigates the efficiency of gravity concentration method by using a shaking table and Falcon concentrator for the separation of quartz [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate the grindability and energy requirements for the liberation of quartz from blast furnace ironmaking slag. Furthermore, the study investigates the efficiency of gravity concentration method by using a shaking table and Falcon concentrator for the separation of quartz from the slag. The grindability of the slag was evaluated using the Bond’s Work Index (BWI) method. The energy required for the liberation of quartz was determined using a Modified Bond’s Work Index (MBWI) method. The results showed that the BWI of the slag was 13.5 kWh/t and the MBWI of the quartz was 22.3 kWh/t. Gravity separation tests were carried out using a shaking table and a Falcon concentrator. The results showed that the shaking table was able to recover 91.2% of the quartz with a grade of 99.5% SiO₂. The Falcon concentrator was able to recover 98.3% of the quartz with a grade of 99.7% SiO₂. In contrast, the study found that the quartz in blast furnace ironmaking slag can be physically separated using gravity separation techniques such as shaking table and Falcon concentrator. The study also provides valuable information on the grindability and energy requirements for the liberation of quartz from the slag, which can be used in the development of more efficient separation processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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255 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Study of Microwave-Assisted Extraction and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Techniques (MAE vs. UAE) for the Optimized Production of Enriched Extracts in Phenolic Compounds of Camellia japonica var Eugenia de Montijo

by Antia G. Pereira, Luis Cruz, Lucia Cassani, Franklin Chamorro, Catarina Lourenço-Lopes, Victor Freitas, Paz Otero, Maria Fraga-Corral, Miguel A. Prieto, Jesus Simal-Gandara and Rosa Perez-Gregorio

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14615 - 17 May 2023

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Abstract

Camellia japonica is an underexplored medicinal plant with associated bioactivities. Innovative approaches are proposed in regard to the large-scale application of C. japonica, being one of the main routes for the extraction of phenolic compounds. The optimum conditions for the extraction of [...] Read more.

Camellia japonica is an underexplored medicinal plant with associated bioactivities. Innovative approaches are proposed in regard to the large-scale application of C. japonica, being one of the main routes for the extraction of phenolic compounds. The optimum conditions for the extraction of phenolic compounds from the flowers of C. japonica var. Eugenia de Montijo were determined using the response surface methodology (RSM). A five-level experimental design was carried out and analyzed via RSM using, as variables, temperature (T), time (t) and solvent (S), in the case of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and power (P), t and S in the case of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The compounds were identified using HPLC–MS–MS. Two responses were studied: the extraction yield and concentration of phenolic compounds. The results showed that the maximum yields (80%) were obtained at high temperatures and low times (180 °C, 5 min) when using MAE. Lower yields (56%) were obtained using UAE (optimal conditions 62% amplitude, 8 min, 39% acidified ethanol). The main family of phenolic compounds were flavonols. Moreover, the present study contributes to the valorization of underused flower species commonly present in the North-West region of Spain, by obtaining extracts rich in phenolic compounds that can be potentially applied as ingredients in different industrial fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

1324 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Semi-Empirical Modelling for Dissolution of Calcium from Ironmaking Slag in Ammonium Acetate for CO₂ Utilization

by Itumeleng Kohitlhetse, Hilary Rutto, Kentse Motsetse, Malibongwe S. Manono and Moshe Mello

Eng. Proc. 2023, 37(1), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ECP2023-14743 - 31 May 2023

Viewed by 261

Abstract

Using iron and steel slags as feedstock for a mineral carbonation reaction using carbon dioxide gas is an excellent technique because they are easily accessible, contribute to land pollution, and have a reasonable quantity of lime and magnesia. The rate at which ironmaking [...] Read more.

Using iron and steel slags as feedstock for a mineral carbonation reaction using carbon dioxide gas is an excellent technique because they are easily accessible, contribute to land pollution, and have a reasonable quantity of lime and magnesia. The rate at which ironmaking blast furnace slag dissolves in an aqueous solution of ammonium acetate was investigated in relation to pH, stirring speed, solvent concentration, and temperature. A one-factor-at-a-time experiment was conducted, pH was monitored to the maximum value of 11, stirring speed ranged from 100 to 200 rpm, solvent concentration was adjusted from 0.01 to 1 M, whereas the reaction temperature was maintained between 25 and 80 °C. The dissolution kinetics of ironmaking slag were calculated by fitting experimental data to a model of a diminishing core. Using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, the leach liquor was characterized under various experimental conditions. The results of the trial revealed that this reaction is driven by a chemical reaction model equation. A semi-empirical model was also developed from the experimental data to better describe the dissolution kinetics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Processes: Process Engineering—Current State and Future Trends)

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