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Open AccessArticle

Adsorption of Lead (II) Ions onto Goethite Chitosan Beads: Isotherms, Kinetics, and Mechanism Studies

by

Tanawit Sirijaree

and

Pornsawai Praipipat

ChemEngineering 2023, 7(3), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering7030052 - 01 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 938

Abstract

Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal that creates a water pollutant. It can be released from industrial processes, agricultural chemistry, and community wastes, affecting creatures and human health even at a low concentration. As a result, it is advised that lead be [...] Read more.

Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal that creates a water pollutant. It can be released from industrial processes, agricultural chemistry, and community wastes, affecting creatures and human health even at a low concentration. As a result, it is advised that lead be removed before releasing wastewater into the environment. This study synthesized three chitosan bead materials from shrimp shell wastes which were chitosan powder beads (CB), chitosan powder mixed with goethite beads (CFB), and chitosan powder beads coated with goethite (CBF) for removing lead in an aqueous solution. Their surface area, pore volumes, and pore sizes were explored according to Brunauer– Emmett–Teller, and their crystalline formations were investigated using an X-ray diffractometer. Their surface structures were studied using field emission scanning electron microscopy and a focus ion beam, and their chemical compositions were determined using an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. Their chemical functional groups were identified via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, batch experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of several factors on removing lead, and the adsorption isotherm and kinetics were also investigated for determining their adsorption pattern and mechanism. In addition, the desorption experiments were studied to confirm their possible material reusability. The CBF demonstrated the highest surface area and smallest pore size compared with the other materials. In addition, the pore sizes of the CFB and CBF were micropores, whereas those of the CB were mesopores. All materials were semicrystalline structures, and the specific goethite peaks were observed in the CFB and CBF. All materials had spherical shapes with heterogeneous surfaces. Six chemical components of O, C, Ca, N, Cl, and Na were discovered in all materials, and Fe was only found in the CFB and CBF because of the addition of goethite. Five main chemical functional groups of N–H, O–H, C–H, C–O, and –COOH were found in all materials. The optimum conditions of the CB, CFB, and CBF for removing lead were 0.5 g, 16 h, pH 5, 0.5 g, 16 h, pH 5, and 0.4 g, 14 h, pH 5, respectively. The results of the batch experiments demonstrated that the CB, CFB, and CBF were high-efficiency adsorbents for removing lead in solution by more than 95%, whereby the CBF showed the highest lead removal of 99%. The Freundlich isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetic model helped to well explain their adsorption pattern and mechanism. The maximum lead adsorption capacities of the CB, CFB, and CBF were 322.58, 333.33, and 344.83 mg/g, respectively. Furthermore, all chitosan materials can be reused for more than three cycles with high lead removal by more than 94%; so, they are potential materials for application in industrial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

One-Step Crystallization of Gahnite Glass-Ceramics in a Wide Thermal Gradient

by

Georgiy Yu. Shakhgildyan

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Natalia N. Presnyakova

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Vladimir N. Sigaev

ChemEngineering 2023, 7(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering7020037 - 18 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1149

Abstract

The glass crystallization regime plays a crucial role in the fabrication of glass ceramics: it affects both phase composition and microstructure, and thus the properties of the final product. In the search for new glass-ceramic materials, the development of a proper heat-treatment schedule [...] Read more.

The glass crystallization regime plays a crucial role in the fabrication of glass ceramics: it affects both phase composition and microstructure, and thus the properties of the final product. In the search for new glass-ceramic materials, the development of a proper heat-treatment schedule involves the utilization of numerous glass samples that need to be thermally treated and then investigated to determine the values of the target characteristics. In this study, we evaluated the effect of crystallization temperature on the glass structure, phase composition, and hardness of glass ceramics in the ZnO-MgO-Al₂O₃-SiO₂ system containing TiO₂ and ZrO₂ as nucleators. To maximize the number of heat treatments, we performed polythermal crystallization of the glass in a wide temperature range with the help of a gradient furnace. Using X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, we showed the precipitation of gahnite nanocrystals as the main phase in the bulk of a single glass sample and observed a gradual change in its microstructure, transparency, and hardness. The dependence of Vickers hardness values on heat treatment temperature was found to follow a non-linear trend, revealing the optimal thermal range for glass crystallization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Correlating Pure Component Properties with MOSCED Solubility Parameters: Enthalpy of Vaporization and Vapor Pressure

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ChemEngineering 2023, 7(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering7020025 - 18 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1112

Abstract

Tools to predict vapor–liquid phase equilibria are indispensable for the conceptualization and design of separation processes. Modified separation of cohesive energy density (MOSCED) is a solubility-parameter-based method parameterized to make accurate predictions of the limiting activity coefficient. As a solubility-parameter-based method, MOSCED can [...] Read more.

Tools to predict vapor–liquid phase equilibria are indispensable for the conceptualization and design of separation processes. Modified separation of cohesive energy density (MOSCED) is a solubility-parameter-based method parameterized to make accurate predictions of the limiting activity coefficient. As a solubility-parameter-based method, MOSCED can not only make quantitative predictions, but can shed light on the underlying intermolecular interactions. In the present study, we demonstrated the ability of MOSCED to correlate the enthalpy of vaporization and vapor pressure at a specific temperature using multiple linear regression. With this addition, MOSCED is able to predict vapor–liquid phase equilibria in the absence of reference data. This was demonstrated for the prediction of the Henry’s constant and solvation free energy of organic solutes in water, which was found to be superior to mod-UNIFAC. In addition to being able to make phase equilibrium predictions, the ability to correlate the enthalpy of vaporization and vapor pressure offers the opportunity to include additional properties in the regression of the MOSCED parameters. Given this success, we additionally attempted to correlate a wide range of physical properties using a similar expression. While, in some cases, the results were reasonable, they were inferior to the correlations of the enthalpy of vaporization and vapor pressure. Future efforts will be needed to improve the correlations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Degradation Studies of Air-Exposed Black Phosphorous and Black Arsenic Phosphorous

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ChemEngineering 2023, 7(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering7020018 - 03 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 882

Abstract

This work investigates the effects of oxygen and humidity on black phosphorous (BP) and black arsenic phosphorous (

{As}_{x} P_{1 - x}

) flakes using Raman spectroscopy and in situ electric transport measurements (four-probe resistance and thermoelectric power, TEP). The results [...] Read more.

This work investigates the effects of oxygen and humidity on black phosphorous (BP) and black arsenic phosphorous (

{As}_{x} P_{1 - x}

) flakes using Raman spectroscopy and in situ electric transport measurements (four-probe resistance and thermoelectric power, TEP). The results show that the incorporation of arsenic into the lattice of BP renders it more stable, with the degradation times for BP,

{As}_{0.2} P_{0.8}

, and

{As}_{0.4} P_{0.6}

being 4, 5, and 11 days, respectively. The P-P Raman peak intensities were determined to decrease with exposure to oxygen and moisture. The TEP measurements confirmed that both BP and

{As}_{x} P_{1 - x}

are p-type semiconductors with the TEP of

{As}_{0.4} P_{0.6}

stabilizing more slowly than that of BP. In addition, the four-probe resistance of BP and

{As}_{x} P_{1 - x}

stabilized significantly faster when exposed to air after being degassed in a vacuum. This was attributed to the charge transfer between the oxygen redox potential of air and the Fermi energy (E_F) of the semiconductors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Removal of Ammonium Ions from Aqueous Solutions Using Alkali-Activated Analcime as Sorbent

by

Hanna Runtti

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Elavarasi Sundhararasu

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ChemEngineering 2023, 7(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering7010005 - 12 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1598

Abstract

Five alkali-activated analcime (ANA) sorbents (ANA-MK 1, ANA 2, ANA 3, ANA-MK 4, and ANA-MK 5) were developed for ammonium (NH₄⁺) ion removal. Acid treatment and calcination were used as pre-treatments for analcime, and metakaolin (MK) was used as a [...] Read more.

Five alkali-activated analcime (ANA) sorbents (ANA-MK 1, ANA 2, ANA 3, ANA-MK 4, and ANA-MK 5) were developed for ammonium (NH₄⁺) ion removal. Acid treatment and calcination were used as pre-treatments for analcime, and metakaolin (MK) was used as a blending agent in three sorbents. Sorption experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of sorbent dosage (1–20 g L⁻¹), initial NH₄⁺ ion concentration (5–1000 g L⁻¹), and contact time (1 min–24 h). ANA-MK 1, ANA 2, and ANA-MK 4 were the most efficient sorbents for NH₄⁺ ion removal, with a maximum experimental sorption uptake of 29.79, 26.00, and 22.24 mg g⁻¹, respectively. ANA 3 and ANA-MK 5 demonstrated lower sorption capacities at 7.18 and 12.65 mg g⁻¹, respectively. The results for the sorption of NH₄⁺ ions onto the alkali-activated analcime surfaces were modeled using several isotherms. The Langmuir, Freundlich, Sips, and Bi-Langmuir isotherms were the best isotherm models to represent the studied systems. The results of the kinetic studies showed the maximum NH₄⁺ ion removal percentage of the sorbents was ~80%, except for ANA-MK 5, which had a ~70% removal. Moreover, the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and Elovich models were applied to the experimental data. The results showed that the sorption process for ANA-MK 1, ANA 2, ANA 3, and ANA-MK 4 followed the Elovich model, whereas the pseudo-second-order model provided the best correlation for ANA-MK 5. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

CFD-Simulation of Isobutane Dehydrogenation for a Fluidized Bed Reactor

by

Sergei A. Solovev

,

Olga V. Soloveva

,

Giyjaz E. Bekmukhamedov

,

Svetlana R. Egorova

and

Alexander A. Lamberov

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(6), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6060098 - 19 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1298

Abstract

In the present study, a mathematical model of the isobutane dehydrogenation process for a laboratory reactor with a diameter of 2.8 cm and a height of 70 cm was created using CFD methods. A two-fluid model was selected as a model for the [...] Read more.

In the present study, a mathematical model of the isobutane dehydrogenation process for a laboratory reactor with a diameter of 2.8 cm and a height of 70 cm was created using CFD methods. A two-fluid model was selected as a model for the fluidization simulation, when the gas and solid granular phases were considered as continuous. The model of chemical kinetics considers three reactions that make the main contribution to the products mass fraction at the reactor outlet: the reaction of catalytic dehydrogenation of isobutane to isobutylene, the reaction of thermal cracking of isobutylene with the formation of methane and propylene, and the reaction of catalytic hydrogenation of propylene. The model was verified in a series of experimental studies. Experimental studies and numerical simulations were carried out for the process parameters: gas velocity 0.008, 0.012 and 0.016 m/s, gas temperature 550, 575, 600 and 625 °C, and catalyst mass 75, 100 and 125 g. The optimal process temperature was 575 °C, where the yield of isobutylene averaged 47.6% of the mass. As the temperature decreased, the yield of isobutylene decreased to 40.1% by weight on average. With an increase in temperature, the yield of isobutylene increased to 52.8% by weight on average, and the total yield of products of side reactions increased to 20% by weight on average. Changes in the gas velocity and catalyst mass had an insignificant effect on the values of the yield of isobutylene, but significantly affected the values of the yield of the by-products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessCommunication

Fe Atom—Mixed Edges Fractal Graphene via DFT Calculation

by

Lobna Aloui

,

Thierry Dintzer

and

Izabela Janowska

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(5), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6050079 - 08 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1239

Abstract

The stability of small fractal graphene models with two different symmetries and Fe atoms at their mixed edges is addressed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Four kinds of edge configurations and Fe atom localizations are determined depending on the model. The edges [...] Read more.

The stability of small fractal graphene models with two different symmetries and Fe atoms at their mixed edges is addressed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Four kinds of edge configurations and Fe atom localizations are determined depending on the model. The edges have mixed configuration, the zig-zag and “intra-zig-zag” in symmetrical structures and armchair and zig-zag type in the architectures with rotational symmetry. The rotational symmetry graphene exhibits slightly higher stability per carbon atom compared to the symmetrical model, while the localization of Fe atoms is more favorable at armchair and “inversed zigzag” than at zigzag type carbon termination. Larger graphene structures with rotational symmetry were observed previously via experimental cutting of graphene with Fe nanoparticles (NPs). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Efficiency of Mechanochemical Ball Milling Technique in the Preparation of Fe/TiO₂ Photocatalysts

by

Shabnam Taghipour

,

King-Lun Yeung

and

Behzad Ataie-Ashtiani

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(5), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6050077 - 02 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1584

Abstract

Rapid population growth and widespread industrialization are the main contributing factors to the increasing contamination of the world’s diminishing freshwater resources. This work investigates Fe/TiO₂ as an efficient and sustainable photocatalyst for treating organic micropollutants in water. The photocatalysts prepared by these [...] Read more.

Rapid population growth and widespread industrialization are the main contributing factors to the increasing contamination of the world’s diminishing freshwater resources. This work investigates Fe/TiO₂ as an efficient and sustainable photocatalyst for treating organic micropollutants in water. The photocatalysts prepared by these mechanochemical methods used a high-energy ball milling technique to manipulate Fe/TiO₂’s structural, optical, and catalytic properties for the photo-oxidation of 2,4-Dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP). Doping with iron effectively reduced the band gap of rutile TiO₂ from 3 to 2.22 eV. By reducing the ball/powder ratio from 34 to 7, the removal efficiency of 2,4-DCP increased from 65.2 to 84.7%. Measuring the TOC indicated 63.5 and 49.4% mineralization by Fe/TiO₂-7 and rutile TiO₂, respectively, after 24 h. The energy yields for the Fe/TiO₂ and rutile TiO₂ were 0.13 and 0.06 g 2,4-DCP/kW h, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Supercritical CO₂ Assisted Electrospray to Produce Poly(lactic-co-glycolic Acid) Nanoparticles

by

Elena Barbero-Colmenar

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Mariangela Guastaferro

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Lucia Baldino

,

Stefano Cardea

and

Ernesto Reverchon

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(5), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6050066 - 01 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1451

Abstract

This work proposes an improvement of the traditional electrospraying process, in which supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) is used to produce poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles. The experiments were performed at different PLGA concentrations (1, 3 and 5% w/w), applied [...] Read more.

This work proposes an improvement of the traditional electrospraying process, in which supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) is used to produce poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles. The experiments were performed at different PLGA concentrations (1, 3 and 5% w/w), applied voltages (10 and 30 kV) and operating pressures (80, 120 and 140 bar). It was found that working at 140 bar and 30 kV, spherical nanoparticles, with mean diameters of 101 ± 13 nm and 151 ± 45 nm, were obtained, when solutions at 1% w/w and 3% w/w PLGA were electrosprayed, respectively. Increasing PLGA concentration up to 5% w/w, a mixture of fibers and particles was observed, indicating the transition to the electrospinning regime. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of Hydrodynamic Parameters of Tangential Swirlers

by

Nikolai A. Voinov

,

Alexander S. Frolov

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Anastasiya V. Bogatkova

and

Denis A. Zemtsov

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(4), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6040048 - 27 Jun 2022

Viewed by 1374

Abstract

This paper presents and patents new profiled- and annular-channel tangential swirlers with 1.8–3 times less hydraulic drag coefficient compared to swirlers with straight channel walls at the same flow rate, respectively. The results of numerical simulation of the gas velocity and pressure profiles [...] Read more.

This paper presents and patents new profiled- and annular-channel tangential swirlers with 1.8–3 times less hydraulic drag coefficient compared to swirlers with straight channel walls at the same flow rate, respectively. The results of numerical simulation of the gas velocity and pressure profiles for tangential swirler channels of different structures are presented. The modelling was carried out with the help of OpenFOAM software using the k-ε turbulence model. It is found that the shape of the velocity profile at the channel inlet has a decisive influence on the swirler drag coefficient. The greatest contribution to the total drag coefficient of the tangential swirler is made by the pressure drop at the channel inlet compared to the pressure drop at the channel wall and the channel outlet. The experimental dependencies of the tangential swirlers’ drag coefficient on the Reynolds number with a gas criterion of 2000–20,000 and the following structural channel parameters: width 1, 2–9 mm, height 1, 5–10 mm, number 5–45 units, inclination angle 0–45° are presented. The experimental data were compared with the modelling calculations and the convergence of data was achieved. The generalized dependence for the measurement of the hydraulic drag coefficient of three types of tangential swirlers considering the effect made by the geometric parameters (flow rate, width and height of the channel, wall inclination angle) on the pressure drop has been determined; it can be useful at the unit design stage as it allows for reducing the calculation time of the swirler parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of VLEs for Binaries of Five Compounds Involved in the Production Processes of Cyclohexanone

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6030042 - 27 May 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1748

Abstract

In an attempt to evaluate the separation of certain impurities that arise in some stages of the production of cyclohexanone, this work analyzed the possibility of removing five of these substances via rectification. Due to the scarcity of experimental vapor–liquid equilibrium data for [...] Read more.

In an attempt to evaluate the separation of certain impurities that arise in some stages of the production of cyclohexanone, this work analyzed the possibility of removing five of these substances via rectification. Due to the scarcity of experimental vapor–liquid equilibrium data for most of the solutions in the effluent of the global process, prior knowledge of their behavior is required. In this work, two predictive models, UNIFAC and COSMO-RS, were used to determine a priori the possibility of obtaining, by distillation, the individual components of seven of the binaries formed by the combination of these five compounds. Since both procedures described quasi-ideal behavior for all the chosen solutions, the results are considered as an approximation, owing to the special nature of the studied systems. The results and characteristics of each system are discussed separately. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Development of a Bioactive Sauce: Effect of the Packaging and Storage Conditions

by

Cecilia G. Giménez

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María Victoria Traffano-Schiffo

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Sonia C. Sgroppo

and

Carola A. Sosa

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6030034 - 26 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2410

Abstract

Consumers’ interest in a high-quality healthy diet is creating a growing trend in the food industry, focusing on the design and development of new products rich in bioactive compounds. This work involves the formulation of a vegetable sauce obtained from a mixture of [...] Read more.

Consumers’ interest in a high-quality healthy diet is creating a growing trend in the food industry, focusing on the design and development of new products rich in bioactive compounds. This work involves the formulation of a vegetable sauce obtained from a mixture of pumpkin and pepper, the study of the evolution of bioactive compounds, quality and sensory parameters during storage at 4 and 25 °C, the influence of the packaging materials (PVC, PE/PA, and PS), and the migration degree. Antioxidant activity, polyphenols, carotenoids, and brown pigments contents were studied at 25 °C. Overall migration of the containers and the evolution of the physicochemical parameters and sensory attributes of the sauce were analyzed. All plastic materials showed an overall migration lower than the limit of EU and Mercosur Regulations. PVC better preserved polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and carotenoids until 50, 10, and 30 days, respectively, and lower development of brown pigments was observed. Higher storage temperatures favored undesirable changes in sensory attributes before 50 days of storage. PVC can be used to achieve greater conservation of the sensory attributes of sauce, regardless of the storage temperature. It could be considered the best material to preserve the bioactive properties and sensory attributes of the sauce until 30 days. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Intensification of Heat and Mass Transfer in a Diabatic Column with Vortex Trays

by

Nikolai A. Voinov

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Anastasiya V. Bogatkova

and

Denis A. Zemtsov

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6020029 - 12 Apr 2022

Viewed by 1891

Abstract

We used vortex contact devices that we developed and investigated to make a new design of an alcohol diabatic distillation column with heat exchange pipes (as the reflux condenser) passing through concentrating section trays. In the column, ascending vapors partially condensed on the [...] Read more.

We used vortex contact devices that we developed and investigated to make a new design of an alcohol diabatic distillation column with heat exchange pipes (as the reflux condenser) passing through concentrating section trays. In the column, ascending vapors partially condensed on the surface of vertically installed heat exchange tubes, forming a reflux. The reflux was then mixed with the draining liquid flow in the vortex contact devices placed on the trays. Heat was removed from the column through the boiling of the draining water film along the inner surface of the heat exchange pipes. We compared both diabatic and adiabatic columns fitted with the developed vortex contact devices on the trays. The proposed innovative contact system allows increasing productivity, reducing column dimensions and steam- and heat-transfer medium consumption, and increasing separation efficiency. Dependences for calculating the gas content, hydraulic resistance, and interphase surface required for designing the vortex contact devices of the proposed unit trays are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Sensitivity Control of Hydroquinone and Catechol at Poly(Brilliant Cresyl Blue)-Modified GCE by Varying Activation Conditions of the GCE: An Experimental and Computational Study

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Mohammad Mahbub Rabbani

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Jamal Uddin

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A. J. Saleh Ahammad

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6020027 - 28 Mar 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2528

Abstract

The poly(brilliant cresyl blue) (PBCB)-modified activated glassy carbon electrode (AGCE) shows the catalytic activity toward the oxidation of hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CT). The modified electrode can also separate the oxidation peaks of HQ and CT in their mixture, which is not possible [...] Read more.

The poly(brilliant cresyl blue) (PBCB)-modified activated glassy carbon electrode (AGCE) shows the catalytic activity toward the oxidation of hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CT). The modified electrode can also separate the oxidation peaks of HQ and CT in their mixture, which is not possible with bare GCE. These properties of the modified electrode can be utilized to fabricate an electrochemical sensor for sensitive and simultaneous detection of HQ and CT. In this study, an attempt is made to control the sensitivity of the modified electrodes. This can be accomplished by simply changing the activation condition of the GCE during electropolymerization. GCE can be activated via one-step (applying only oxidation potential) and two-step (applying both oxidation and reduction potential) processes. When we change the activation condition from onestep to twosteps, a clear enhancement inpeak currents of HQ and CT is observed. This helps us to fabricate a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor for the simultaneous detection of HQ and CT. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is carried out to explain the experimental data. The MD simulations provide the insight adsorption phenomena to clarify the reasons for higher signals of CT over HQ due to having meta-position –OH group in its structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Heterogeneous Photodegradation for the Abatement of Recalcitrant COD in Synthetic Tanning Wastewater

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6020025 - 21 Mar 2022

Viewed by 2179

Abstract

Tannery wastewater is considered one of the most contaminated and problematic wastes since it consists of considerable amounts of organic and inorganic compounds. These contaminants result in high chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and total suspended solids (TSS). In this [...] Read more.

Tannery wastewater is considered one of the most contaminated and problematic wastes since it consists of considerable amounts of organic and inorganic compounds. These contaminants result in high chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and total suspended solids (TSS). In this work, the heterogeneous photodegradation of recalcitrant COD in wastewater from the tanning industry was investigated, in particular the recalcitrant COD due to the presence of vegetable tannins extracted from mimosa and chestnut and from synthetic tannins based on 4,4′ dihydroxy phenyl sulfone. TiO₂ Aeroxide P-25 was employed to study the photodegradation of model molecules in batch conditions under different parameters, namely initial concentration of COD, temperature, and catalyst dose. The maximum COD abatement reached was 60%. Additionally, preliminary kinetic investigation was conducted to derive the main kinetic parameters that can be useful for process scale-up. It was found to be independent of the temperature value but linearly dependent on both catalyst loading and the initial COD value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Three-Dimensional CFD Model Development and Validation for Once-Through Steam Generator (OTSG): Coupling Combustion, Heat Transfer and Steam Generation

by

Ehsan Askari Mahvelati

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Mario Forcinito

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Laurent Fitschy

and

Arthur Maesen

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6020023 - 14 Mar 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2712

Abstract

The current research studies the coupled combustion inside the furnace and the steam generation inside the radiant and convection tubes through a typical Once-Through Steam Generator (OTSG). A 3-D CFD model coupling the combustion and the two-phase flow was developed to model the [...] Read more.

The current research studies the coupled combustion inside the furnace and the steam generation inside the radiant and convection tubes through a typical Once-Through Steam Generator (OTSG). A 3-D CFD model coupling the combustion and the two-phase flow was developed to model the entire system of OTSG. Once the combustion simulation was converged, the results were compared to field data showing a convincing agreement. The CFD analysis provides the detailed flow behavior inside the combustion chamber and the stack, as well as the two-phase flow steam generation process in the radiant and convective sections. The flame shape and orientation, the velocity, the species, and the temperature distribution at the various parts of the furnace, as well as the steam generation and the steam distribution inside the pipes were investigated using the developed CFD model Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

A First Approach towards Adsorption-Oriented Physics-Informed Neural Networks: Monoclonal Antibody Adsorption Performance on an Ion-Exchange Column as a Case Study

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Amaro G. Barreto, Jr.

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Idelfonso B. R. Nogueira

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6020021 - 01 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2599

Abstract

Adsorption systems are characterized by challenging behavior to simulate any numerical method. A novel field of study emerged within the numerical method in the last two years: the physics-informed neural network (PINNs), the application of artificial intelligence to solve partial differential equations. This [...] Read more.

Adsorption systems are characterized by challenging behavior to simulate any numerical method. A novel field of study emerged within the numerical method in the last two years: the physics-informed neural network (PINNs), the application of artificial intelligence to solve partial differential equations. This is a complete new standpoint for solving engineering first-principle models, which up to that date was not explored in the field of adsorption systems. Therefore, this work proposed the evaluation of PINN to address the numerical solutions of a fixed-bed column where a monoclonal antibody is purified. The PINNs solution is compared with a traditional numerical method. The results show the accuracy of the proposed PINNs when compared with the numerical method. This points towards the potential of this technique to address complex numerical problems found in chemical engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Reliability of Biodegradation Measurements for Inhibitive Industrial Wastewaters

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6010015 - 03 Feb 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2280

Abstract

Industrial wastewaters may contain toxic or highly inhibitive compounds, which makes the measurement of biological oxygen demand (BOD) challenging. Due to the high concentration of organic compounds within them, industrial wastewater samples must be diluted to perform BOD measurements. This study focused on [...] Read more.

Industrial wastewaters may contain toxic or highly inhibitive compounds, which makes the measurement of biological oxygen demand (BOD) challenging. Due to the high concentration of organic compounds within them, industrial wastewater samples must be diluted to perform BOD measurements. This study focused on determining the reliability of wastewater BOD measurement using two different types of industrial wastewater, namely pharmaceutical wastewater containing a total organic carbon (TOC) value of 34,000 mg(C)/L and industrial paper manufacturing wastewater containing a corresponding TOC value of 30 mg(C)/L. Both manometric respirometry and the closed-bottle method were used in the study, and the results were compared. It was found that the dilution wastewaters containing inhibitive compounds affected BOD values, which increased due to the decreased inhibiting effect of wastewater pollutants. Therefore, the correct BOD for effluents should be measured from undiluted samples, while the diluted value is appropriate for determining the maximum value for biodegradable organic material in the effluent. The accuracy of the results from the blank samples was also examined, and it was found that the readings of these were different to those from the samples. Therefore, the blank value that must be subtracted may differ depending on the sample. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Numerical Simulation of Heat and Mass Transfer in an Open-Cell Foam Catalyst on Example of the Acetylene Hydrogenation Reaction

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6010011 - 01 Feb 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2558

Abstract

In the present work, based on numerical simulation, a comparative analysis of the flow of a chemically reacting gas flow through a catalyst is performed using the example of selective hydrogenation of acetylene in a wide range of flow temperatures variation. Catalyst models [...] Read more.

In the present work, based on numerical simulation, a comparative analysis of the flow of a chemically reacting gas flow through a catalyst is performed using the example of selective hydrogenation of acetylene in a wide range of flow temperatures variation. Catalyst models are based on open-cell foam material. A comparison is also made with calculations and experimental data for a granular catalyst. The porosity and cell diameter were chosen as variable parameters for the porous catalyst. The results of numerical studies were obtained in the form of component concentration fields of the gas mixture, vector fields of gas movement, values of conversion, and selectivity of the reaction under study. The parameters of the porous material of the catalyst are determined for the maximum efficiency of the process under study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Prediction of B20 Storage Tank Precipitate Removal Based on Biodiesel Monoglyceride Content

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Misri Gozan

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Imam Paryanto

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Muhammad Arif Darmawan

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Mohamed Kheireddine Aroua

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Patrick Cognet

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6010007 - 13 Jan 2022

Viewed by 2311

Abstract

Precipitate in B20 fuel stored in storage tanks can accumulate at the bottom level of the tank and affect the fuel filter, clogging in the fuel distribution and engine system. This study examines the precipitate formation prediction in B20 fuel based on the [...] Read more.

Precipitate in B20 fuel stored in storage tanks can accumulate at the bottom level of the tank and affect the fuel filter, clogging in the fuel distribution and engine system. This study examines the precipitate formation prediction in B20 fuel based on the monoglyceride content in biodiesel. This research used a modified CSFT method of ASTM D7501 for the precipitation test. Monopalmitin was added to biodiesel with a variation of monoglyceride content. Each biodiesel sample was then blended with petroleum diesel fuel to produce two groups of samples. Each sample was separately soaked in the cooling chamber at constant and room temperature for 21 days. The bottom layer of each B20 fuel sample stored in the measuring cylinder was then pipetted and filtered, washed with petro-ether, vacuum-dried, and weighed for a constant amount of precipitate retained on the filter. The simulation results show that the ratios between the amount of collected precipitate at the bottom layer of the 2-liter measuring cylinder and the total amount of collected precipitate for the 2-liter measuring cylinder increased with the monoglyceride content biodiesel. This ratio was used to predict the amount of accumulated sludge for a given volume of B20 fuel loaded into the storage tank. This study shows the effect of monoglyceride content on the precipitation behaviour in the storage tank concerning general tank storage dimension parameters and B20 loading frequency. This approach can be applied to estimate the sludge removal frequency for biodiesel storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Experimental Study on Absorption Behavior and Efficiency of Brine in Hazardous Gas Absorption Treatment

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6010004 - 04 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1833

Abstract

There have been studies recently on bubble-column scrubbers with low cost and high efficiency for the absorption and treatment of hazardous gases in the event of a chemical spill. Bubble columns are vulnerable to freezing at temperatures below zero because the absorbents generally [...] Read more.

There have been studies recently on bubble-column scrubbers with low cost and high efficiency for the absorption and treatment of hazardous gases in the event of a chemical spill. Bubble columns are vulnerable to freezing at temperatures below zero because the absorbents generally do not circulate. To address this issue, this study focused on the applicability, absorbed amount, and performance of brine as an absorbent. Under three different temperatures, i.e., −5 °C, −8 °C and −10 °C we examined brine (NaCl, CaCl₂, and MgCl₂) by varying the concentration required at each temperature. Following the experiments, CaCl₂ brine was determined as the optimal brine for its absorption performance and affordability. Based on the experimental results, the absorption performance for ammonia, ethylene oxide, and methylamine, which are hazardous and water-soluble gases among accident preparedness substances (APS), was tested by using ASEPN PLUS. Our results suggested although the efficiency dropped by about 5% to 25% when brine was used as an absorbent, it can be used at the low temperatures because the gas solubility increased with decreasing temperature. Therefore, if brine, as an alternative, is used at temperatures about 15 °C, it can operate efficiently and stably without deterioration in the absorption performance. Given our experimental results and design data on the absorbed amount and absorbent replacement period for major hazardous gases are utilized to prevent bubble columns from freezing, it can be commercially used for small and medium-sized enterprises because it can help reduce installation and operation costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Evaluation of the Heat Produced by the Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Wet Food Processing Residues and Model Compounds

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ChemEngineering 2022, 6(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6010002 - 04 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2277

Abstract

Hydrothermal liquefaction has proven itself as a promising pathway to the valorisation of low-value wet food residues. The chemistry is complex and many questions remain about the underlying mechanism of the transformation. Little is known about the heat of reaction, or even the [...] Read more.

Hydrothermal liquefaction has proven itself as a promising pathway to the valorisation of low-value wet food residues. The chemistry is complex and many questions remain about the underlying mechanism of the transformation. Little is known about the heat of reaction, or even the thermal effects, of the hydrothermal liquefaction of real biomass and its constituents. This paper explores different methods to evaluate the heat released during the liquefaction of blackcurrant pomace and brewers’ spent grains. Some model compounds have also been evaluated, such as lignin, cellulose and glutamic acid. Exothermic behaviour was observed for blackcurrant pomace and brewers’ spent grains. Results obtained in a continuous reactor are similar to those obtained in a batch reactor. The heat release has been estimated between 1 MJ/kg and 3 MJ/kg for blackcurrant pomace and brewers’ spent grains, respectively. Liquefaction of cellulose and glucose also exhibit exothermic behaviour, while the transformation of lignin and glutamic acid present a slightly endothermic behaviour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Predicted Mutual Solubilities in Water + C₅-C₁₂ Hydrocarbon Systems. Results at 298 K

by

Marian Góral

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Paweł Oracz

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040089 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2017

Abstract

Mutual solubilities of water with n-alkanes, cycloalkanes, iso-alkanes (branched alkanes), alkenes, alkynes, alkadienes, and alkylbenzenes were calculated at 298 K for 153 systems not yet measured. Recommended data for 64 systems reported in the literature were compared with the predicted values. The [...] Read more.

Mutual solubilities of water with n-alkanes, cycloalkanes, iso-alkanes (branched alkanes), alkenes, alkynes, alkadienes, and alkylbenzenes were calculated at 298 K for 153 systems not yet measured. Recommended data for 64 systems reported in the literature were compared with the predicted values. The solubility of the hydrocarbons in water was calculated with a thermodynamically based equation, which depends on specific properties of the hydrocarbon. The concentration in the second coexisting liquid phase (water in hydrocarbon) was calculated using liquid-liquid equilibrium with an equation of state, which takes into account the self-association of water and co-association of water with π-bonds of the hydrocarbons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Hydrothermal Synthesis of Biphasic Calcium Phosphate from Cuttlebone Assisted by the Biosurfactant L-rhamnose Monohydrate for Biomedical Materials

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Thamonwan Tattanon

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Premjit Arpornmaeklong

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Sarute Ummartyotin

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Thirawudh Pongprayoon

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040088 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2224

Abstract

The motivation of this research work is to develop novel medical material from cuttlebone (calcium source) by L-rhamnose monohydrate (biosurfactant) for aged people. The process can be synthesized biphasic calcium phosphate which is eco-friendly to environment. One of the most important aspects for [...] Read more.

The motivation of this research work is to develop novel medical material from cuttlebone (calcium source) by L-rhamnose monohydrate (biosurfactant) for aged people. The process can be synthesized biphasic calcium phosphate which is eco-friendly to environment. One of the most important aspects for this work is to use cuttlebone as a naturally occurring calcium source from a local beach in Thailand. It usually contains 90% calcium carbonate. The objective of this research work is to synthesize the biphasic calcium phosphate by hydrothermal reaction. Critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of 10, 20, 100, 500 and 1000 of L-rhamnose monohydrate were used to control particle size and shape. XRD revealed a mixture of β-tricalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite powder. SEM reported that the size of particles can be effectively controlled by the addition of L-rhamnose monohydrate, and with the addition of surfactant, size uniformity was achieved. The cytotoxicity test was reported to be in the range of 70–75%. It was remarkable to note that biphasic calcium phosphate synthesized from cuttlebone with the aid of L-rhamnose monohydrate will be considered an excellent candidate as a scaffold material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Raman Calibration Models for Chemical Species Determination in CO₂-Loaded Aqueous MEA Solutions Using PLS and ANN Techniques

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Ahmad Syukri Hanafiah

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Abdulhalim Shah Maulud

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Muhammad Zubair Shahid

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Humbul Suleman

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Azizul Buang

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040087 - 14 Dec 2021

Viewed by 2009

Abstract

The improvement in energy efficiency is recognized as one of the significant parameters for achieving our net-zero emissions target by 2050. One exciting area for development is conventional carbon capture technologies. Current amine absorption-based systems for carbon capture operate at suboptimal conditions resulting [...] Read more.

The improvement in energy efficiency is recognized as one of the significant parameters for achieving our net-zero emissions target by 2050. One exciting area for development is conventional carbon capture technologies. Current amine absorption-based systems for carbon capture operate at suboptimal conditions resulting in an efficiency loss, causing a high operational expenditure. Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative speciation of CO₂-loaded alkanolamine systems and their interactions can improve the equipment design and define optimal operating conditions. This work investigates the potential of Raman spectroscopy as an in situ monitoring tool for determining chemical species concentration in the CO₂-loaded aqueous monoethanolamine (MEA) solutions. Experimental information on chemical speciation and vapour-liquid equilibrium was collected at a range of process parameters. Then, partial least squares (PLS) regression and an artificial neural network (ANN) were applied separately to develop two Raman species calibration models where the Kent–Eisenberg model correlated the species concentrations. The data were paired and randomly distributed into calibration and test datasets. A quantitative analysis based on the coefficient of determination (R²) and root mean squared error (RMSE) was performed to select the optimal model parameters for the PLS and ANN approach. The R² values of above 0.90 are observed for both cases indicating that both regression techniques can satisfactorily predict species concentration. ANN models are slightly more accurate than PLS. However, PLS (being a white box model) allows the analysis of spectral variables using a weight plot. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Features of the Chemical Interaction of 2-Furaldehyde and 1,3,5-Trihydroxybenzene in an Alkaline Medium to Obtain a Plasticizing Additive

by

Valentina Anatolyevna Poluektova

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Natalia Igorevna Cherkashina

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Sergey Aleksandrovich Starchenko

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Dmitriy Sergeevich Romanyuk

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040084 - 08 Dec 2021

Viewed by 1686

Abstract

The paper presents data on the study of the polycondensation of 2-furaldehyde and 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene in an alkaline medium to obtain a plasticizing additive. Results are presented on the study of the products of the separate interaction of 1,3,5-trioxybenzene and 2-furaldehyde with NaOH, and [...] Read more.

The paper presents data on the study of the polycondensation of 2-furaldehyde and 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene in an alkaline medium to obtain a plasticizing additive. Results are presented on the study of the products of the separate interaction of 1,3,5-trioxybenzene and 2-furaldehyde with NaOH, and the joint polycondensation of 1,3,5-trioxybenzene with 2-furaldehyde with NaOH by UV spectroscopy. The structure of the product of the interaction of 1,3,5-trioxybenzene with 2-furaldehyde in an alkaline medium was studied by IR spectroscopy. Stronger C–H bonds appear in the IR spectrum and stretching vibrations of the C = O group are not observed, which confirms the production of a new compound. The optimal dosage of the developed plasticizing additive has been established as 0.3% of the cement mass (calculated on dry matter). The developed plasticizing additive can significantly reduce the water-cement ratio while maintaining the strength characteristics of cement compositions. In addition, when using the additive, the strength characteristics are significantly increased with a reduced water-cement ratio. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Life Cycle Assessment of Solid Recovered Fuel Gasification in the State of Qatar

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Ahmad Mohamed S. H. Al-Moftah

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Richard Marsh

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Julian Steer

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040081 - 19 Nov 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2814

Abstract

Gas products from gasified solid recovered fuel (SRF) have been proposed as a replacement for natural gas to produce electricity in future power generation systems. In this work, the life cycle assessment (LCA) of SRF air gasification to energy was conducted using the [...] Read more.

Gas products from gasified solid recovered fuel (SRF) have been proposed as a replacement for natural gas to produce electricity in future power generation systems. In this work, the life cycle assessment (LCA) of SRF air gasification to energy was conducted using the Recipe2016 model considering five environmental impact categories and four scenarios in Qatar. The current situation of municipal solid waste (MSW) handling in Qatar is landfill with composting. The results show that using SRF gasification can reduce the environmental impact of MSW landfills and reliance on natural gas in electricity generation. Using SRF gasification on the selected five environmental impact categories—climate change, terrestrial acidification, marine ecotoxicity, water depletion and fossil resource depletion—returned significant reductions in environmental degradation. The LCA of the SRF gasification for the main four categories in the four scenarios gave varying results. The introduction of the SRF gasification reduced climate change-causing emissions by 41.3% because of production of renewable electricity. A reduction in water depletion and fossil resource depletion of 100 times were achieved. However, the use of solar technology and SRF gasification to generate electricity reduced the impact of climate change to almost zero emissions. Terrestrial acidification showed little to no change in all three scenarios investigated. This study was compared with the previous work from the literature and showed that on a nominal 10 kg MSW processing basis, 5 kg CO₂ equivalent emissions were produced for the landfilling scenarios. While the previous studies reported that 8 kg CO₂ produced per 10 kg MSW is processed for the same scenario. The findings indicate that introducing SRF gasification in solid waste management and electricity generation in Qatar has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission load and related social, economic, political and environmental costs. In addition, the adoption of the SRF gasification in the country will contribute to Qatar’s national vision 2030 by reducing landfills and produce sustainable energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Investigation of Duplex Brass Membranes with Metallography, Permeability and Treatments: Work-Hardening, Annealing and Quenching

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Sofia Kavafaki

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George Bomis

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Kyriaki Drakaki

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Athanasios Varoutoglou

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Konstantinos Kiourtzidis

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George Z. Kyzas

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Athanasios C. Mitropoulos

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040076 - 03 Nov 2021

Viewed by 2664

Abstract

This paper consists of the fabrication and investigation of metal membranes and the study of their behaviour and applications in gas separation processes. The scope is to produce and characterize the porous crystal structure of brass alloy (standardization: DIN 17660) membranes and measure [...] Read more.

This paper consists of the fabrication and investigation of metal membranes and the study of their behaviour and applications in gas separation processes. The scope is to produce and characterize the porous crystal structure of brass alloy (standardization: DIN 17660) membranes and measure their permeability with helium as a penetrant medium. Another part of this study is to alter the brass alloy’s structure throughout metallurgical treatments and investigate how the permeability is allied to the structure’s alteration. This work merges the knowledge and technology of inorganic porous materials science in metallurgy. The novelty of the current research resides in the process to alternate the brass alloy structure throughout metallurgical treatments and how it is allied to the permeability of the membrane, which is of interest to be investigated. The results of the research are analysed and compared conducting the final inferences. All metallurgical treatments resulted in low permeability values when compared to a non-treated specimen. Specifically, the drop in permeance ranged from 76 up to 99.56%. It is noted that consecutive treatments contributed to even further decreases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Effects of Constant Electric Field on Biodegradation of Phenol by Free and Immobilized Cells of Bradyrhizobium japonicum 273

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Evgenia Vasileva

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Tsvetomila Parvanova-Mancheva

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ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040075 - 02 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1922

Abstract

It is shown that bacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum 273 were capable of degrading phenol at moderate concentrations either in a free cell culture or by immobilized cells on granulated activated carbon particles. The amount of degraded phenol was greater in an immobilized cell preparation [...] Read more.

It is shown that bacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum 273 were capable of degrading phenol at moderate concentrations either in a free cell culture or by immobilized cells on granulated activated carbon particles. The amount of degraded phenol was greater in an immobilized cell preparation than in a free culture. The application of a constant electric field during cultivation led to enhanced phenol biodegradation in a free culture and in immobilized cells on granulated activated carbon. The highest phenol removal efficiency was observed for an anode potential of 1.0 V/S.H.E. The effect was better pronounced in a free culture. The enzyme activities of free cells for phenol oxidation and benzene ring cleavage were very sensitive to the anode potential in the first two steps of the metabolic pathway of phenol biodegradation catalyzed by phenol hydroxylase—catechol-1,2-dioxygenase and catechol-2,3-dioxygenase. It was observed that at an anode potential of 0.8 V/S.H.E., the meta-pathway of cleavage of the benzene ring catalyzed by catechol-2,3-dioxygenase became competitive with the ortho-pathway, catalyzed by catechol-1,2-dioxygenase. The obtained results showed that the positive effect of constant electric field on phenol biodegradation was rather due to electric stimulation of enzyme activity than electrochemical anode oxidation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Amino Ethers of Ortho-Phosphoric Acid as Extragents for Ethanol Dehydration

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Ilsiya M. Davletbaeva

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040071 - 21 Oct 2021

Viewed by 2433

Abstract

Amino ethers of ortho-phosphoric acid prepared using triethanolamine; ortho-phosphoric acid; polyoxyethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and glycerol (AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl) were investigated as extractants for the separation of aqueous ethanol solutions by extractive distillation. Using the method of open evaporation, the influence [...] Read more.

Amino ethers of ortho-phosphoric acid prepared using triethanolamine; ortho-phosphoric acid; polyoxyethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and glycerol (AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl) were investigated as extractants for the separation of aqueous ethanol solutions by extractive distillation. Using the method of open evaporation, the influence of the molecular structure of AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl on the conditions of vapor–liquid equilibrium in ethanol–water solutions was studied. It has been shown that the addition of AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl removes the azeotropic point. At the same time, the observed effect turned out to be significantly higher in comparison with the use of pure glycerol or glycols for these purposes. The UNIFAC model was used to calculate the activity coefficients in a three-component ethanol–water–AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl mixture. Within the framework of this model, a division of AEPA-DEG/TEG/Gl molecules into group components is proposed. Previously unknown parameters of the groups PO–CH, PO–CH₂, PO–OCH₂, PO–NHCH₂, PO–OH, and PO–H₂O were determined from our own and published experimental data. The concentration dependences of the density and dynamic viscosity of AEPA-Gl aqueous solutions have been experimentally measured. Experimental studies of the extractive distillation of ethanol–water using AEPA-Gl as an extractant have been carried out in a column with bubble cap plates and a packing, and its high efficiency has been established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Development of a Dynamic Modeling Approach to Simulate a Segmented Distillation Column for Flexible Operation

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ChemEngineering 2021, 5(4), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5040066 - 01 Oct 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3158

Abstract

The need for flexible process equipment has increased over the past decade in the chemical industry. However, process equipment such as distillation columns have limitations that significantly restrict flexible operation. We investigate a segmented tray column designed to allow flexible operation. The design [...] Read more.

The need for flexible process equipment has increased over the past decade in the chemical industry. However, process equipment such as distillation columns have limitations that significantly restrict flexible operation. We investigate a segmented tray column designed to allow flexible operation. The design consists of radial trays connected at the downcomer of each tray. Each segment can be operated separately, but depending on the capacity of the feed stream, additional segments can be activated or deactivated. The connection between the trays aims to transfer liquid from one stationary segment to the adjacent inactive segment, thereby reducing the time required for the start-up process. In a case study on the separation of methanol and water, we perform dynamic simulations to assess the reduction in the start-up time of inactive segments. The results confirm the advantages over standard tray designs. The segmented distillation column is a step towards improving the flexibility of separation operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Effect of the Carrier on the Coprecipitation of Curcumin through Supercritical-Assisted Atomization

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Iolanda De Marco

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Paola Franco

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030059 - 08 Sep 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1538

Abstract

In this paper, composite systems containing curcumin (CUR) were prepared through supercritical-assisted atomization (SAA), using different carriers. Curcumin is particularly interesting in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields for its antioxidant, antitumoral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its therapeutic effect on human health is restricted [...] Read more.

In this paper, composite systems containing curcumin (CUR) were prepared through supercritical-assisted atomization (SAA), using different carriers. Curcumin is particularly interesting in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields for its antioxidant, antitumoral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its therapeutic effect on human health is restricted by its poor water solubility and low dissolution rate, limiting its absorption after its oral administration. To increase the dissolution rate and then the bioavailability of the active compound, CUR was coprecipitated with polymeric, i.e., polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and dextran (DXT), and not polymeric, i.e., hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD), carriers. The effects of some operating parameters, namely the concentration of solutes in solution and the active compound/carrier ratio, on the morphology and the particle size distribution of the powders were investigated. Submicrometric particles were produced with all the carriers. Under the best operating conditions, the mean diameters ± standard deviation were equal to 0.69 ± 0.20 μm, 0.40 ± 0.13 μm, and 0.81 ± 0.25 μm for PVP/CUR, DXT/CUR, and HP-β-CD/CUR, respectively. CUR dissolution rates from coprecipitated particles were significantly increased in the case of all the carriers. Therefore, the results are exciting from a pharmaceutical and nutraceutical point of view, to produce supplements containing curcumin, but assuring a high dissolution rate and bioavailability and, consequently, a more effective therapeutic effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Impact Strength of Hybrid Epoxy–Basalt Composites Modified with Mineral and Natural Fillers

by

Danuta Matykiewicz

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Mateusz Barczewski

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Marwan Suleiman Mousa

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Mavinkere Rangappa Sanjay

and

Suchart Siengchin

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030056 - 31 Aug 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 1901

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of mineral and natural additives (2.5; 5; 10 wt.%) on the impact strength of epoxy–basalt composites. Three types of filler were used to modify the epoxy matrix: basalt powder (BP), basalt microfiber (BF) [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of mineral and natural additives (2.5; 5; 10 wt.%) on the impact strength of epoxy–basalt composites. Three types of filler were used to modify the epoxy matrix: basalt powder (BP), basalt microfiber (BF) and sunflower husk ash (SA). The impact strength and the maximum force were determined for the materials. The results of the conducted research confirm that the addition of a powder fillers to the epoxy matrix of basalt fiber reinforced composites is an effective method of improving their impact characteristic. The introduction of fillers to epoxy resin allowed to improve the impact properties of all tested groups of laminates. Moreover, in all cases, the introduction of the filler increased the maximum force needed to damage the composite sample and their hardness. For the modified materials, an increase in impact strength was recorded, respectively: by 44% for composites with BP, by 7.5% for composites with BF and by 2.5% for composites with SA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Effects of Pore Connectivity on the Sorption of Fluids in Nanoporous Material: Ethane and CO₂ Sorption in Silicalite

by

Siddharth Gautam

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David R. Cole

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030055 - 30 Aug 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3197

Abstract

Adsorption of fluids in nanoporous materials is important for several applications including gas storage and catalysis. The pore network in natural, as well as engineered, materials can exhibit different degrees of connectivity between pores. While this might have important implications for the sorption [...] Read more.

Adsorption of fluids in nanoporous materials is important for several applications including gas storage and catalysis. The pore network in natural, as well as engineered, materials can exhibit different degrees of connectivity between pores. While this might have important implications for the sorption of fluids, the effects of pore connectivity are seldom addressed in the studies of fluid sorption. We have carried out Monte Carlo simulations of the sorption of ethane and CO₂ in silicalite, a nanoporous material characterized by sub-nanometer pores of different geometries (straight and zigzag channel like pores), with varied degrees of pore connectivity. The variation in pore connectivity is achieved by selectively blocking some pores by loading them with methane molecules that are treated as a part of the rigid nanoporous matrix in the simulations. Normalized to the pore space available for adsorption, the magnitude of sorption increases with a decrease in pore connectivity. The increased adsorption in the systems where pore connections are removed by blocking them is because of additional, albeit weaker, adsorption sites provided by the blocker molecules. By selectively blocking all straight or zigzag channels, we find differences in the absorption behavior of guest molecules in these channels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Thermal Decomposition Kinetic Study of Non-Recyclable Paper and Plastic Waste by Thermogravimetric Analysis

by

Ahmad Mohamed S. H. Al-Moftah

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Richard Marsh

and

Julian Steer

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030054 - 30 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2409

Abstract

The global net emissions of the Kyoto Protocol greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), fluorinated gases, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), remain substantially high, despite concerted efforts to reduce them. Thermal treatment of solid [...] Read more.

The global net emissions of the Kyoto Protocol greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), fluorinated gases, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), remain substantially high, despite concerted efforts to reduce them. Thermal treatment of solid waste contributes at least 2.8–4% of the GHG in part due to increased generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) and inefficient treatment processes, such as incineration and landfill. Thermal treatment processes, such as gasification and pyrolysis, are valuable ways to convert solid materials, such as wastes into syngas, liquids, and chars, for power generation, fuels, or for the bioremediation of soils. Subcoal™ is a commercial product based on paper and plastics from the source segregated waste that is not readily recyclable and that would otherwise potentially find its way in to landfills. This paper looks at the kinetic parameters associated with this product in pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion conditions for consideration as a fuel for power generation or as a reductant in the blast furnace ironmaking process. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) in Nitrogen (N₂), CO₂, and in air, was used to measure and compare the reaction kinetics. The activation energy

(E_{a})

and pre-exponential factor

A

were measured at different heating rates using non-isothermal Ozawa Flynn Wall and (OFW) and Kissinger-Akahira-Sonuse (KAS) model-free techniques. The TGA curves showed that the thermal degradation of Subcoal™ comprises three main processes: dehydration, devolatilization, and char and ash formation. In addition, the heating rate drifts the devolatilization temperature to a higher value. Likewise, the derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) results stated that T_m degradation increased as the heating rate increased. Substantial variance in

E_{a}

was noted between the four stages of thermal decomposition of Subcoal™ on both methods. The

E_{a}

for gasification reached 200.2 ± 33.6 kJ/mol by OFW and 179.0 ± 31.9 kJ/mol by KAS. Pyrolysis registered

E_{a}

values of 161.7 ± 24.7 kJ/mol by OFW and 142.6 ± 23.5 kJ/mol by KAS. Combustion returned the lowest

E_{a}

values for both OFW (76.74 ± 15.4 kJ/mol) and KAS (71.0 ± 4.4 kJ/mol). The low

E_{a}

values in combustion indicate shorter reaction time for Subcoal™ degradation compared to gasification and pyrolysis. Generally, TGA kinetics analysis using KAS and OFW methods show good consistency in evaluating Arrhenius constants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of the Electric Machine Cooling System Employing Nanofluid as an Advanced Coolant

by

Ali Deriszadeh

and

Filippo de Monte

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030053 - 28 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3286

Abstract

In this paper, the overall performance of an electric machine cooling system was examined in terms of heat transfer and fluid flow. The structure of the cooling system was based on the cooling jacket method. The cooling jacket contains spiral channels surrounding the [...] Read more.

In this paper, the overall performance of an electric machine cooling system was examined in terms of heat transfer and fluid flow. The structure of the cooling system was based on the cooling jacket method. The cooling jacket contains spiral channels surrounding the stator and end-windings of the electric machine. Al₂O₃-water nanofluid is used inside the channels as the cooling fluid. The concentration of nanoparticles and the geometric structure of the cooling system have special effects on both aspects of heat transfer and fluid flow. Therefore, in this paper, the overall performance of the cooling system was evaluated by considering these effects. This study compared the importance of heat transfer and fluid flow performances on the overall performance of the cooling system. Numerical analyses were performed by 3D computational fluid dynamics and 3D fluid motion analysis. The analyses were carried out based on the 3D finite element method using the pressure-based solver of the Ansys Fluent software in steady mode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Kinetic Study of the Ultrasound Effect on Acid Brown 83 Dye Degradation by Hydrogen Peroxide Oxidation Processes

by

Gerardo León

,

Beatriz Miguel

,

Laura Manzanares

,

María Isabel Saavedra

and

María Amelia Guzmán

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030052 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1686

Abstract

The effect of ultrasound on the degradation of the dye Acid Brown 83 by seven different degradation methods (blank test using only ultrasound, hydrogen peroxide in a neutral medium, hydrogen peroxide in a sulfuric acid medium and hydrogen peroxide in a sulfuric acid [...] Read more.

The effect of ultrasound on the degradation of the dye Acid Brown 83 by seven different degradation methods (blank test using only ultrasound, hydrogen peroxide in a neutral medium, hydrogen peroxide in a sulfuric acid medium and hydrogen peroxide in a sulfuric acid medium in the presence of Fe(II), both without and with ultrasonic irradiation) is studied in this paper. The effectiveness of these methods is compared by analyzing the degradation percentages of the dye and its initial degradation rate. The application of ultrasound leads to a significant increase in the efficiency of any of the degradation method studied. Kinetic study of Acid Brown 83 degradation by the above-mentioned methods is carried out by using four kinetic models (first order, second order, Behnajady and pseudo-first order). The pseudo-first order model is the one that best fits the experimental data in all the used degradation methods. Although when the degradation is performed in the presence of Fe(II), the Behnajady model presents correlation coefficients slightly higher than those of the pseudo-first order, the maximum experimental conversions obtained fit much better in all cases to the pseudo first order model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Promising Isotope Effect in Pd₇₇Ag₂₃ for Hydrogen Separation

by

Francesco Trequattrini

,

,

,

and

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030051 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1766

Abstract

Pd–Ag alloys are largely used as hydrogen separation membranes and, as a consequence, the Pd–Ag–H system has been intensively studied. On the contrary, fewer information is available for the Pd–Ag–D system; thus, the aim of this work is to improve the knowledge of [...] Read more.

Pd–Ag alloys are largely used as hydrogen separation membranes and, as a consequence, the Pd–Ag–H system has been intensively studied. On the contrary, fewer information is available for the Pd–Ag–D system; thus, the aim of this work is to improve the knowledge of the isotope effect on the commercial Pd₇₇Ag₂₃ alloy, especially for temperature above 200 °C. In particular, deuterium absorption measurements are carried out in the Pd₇₇Ag₂₃ alloy in the temperature range between 79 and 400 °C and in the pressure range between 10⁻² and 16 bar. In this exploited pressure (p) and composition (c) range, above 300 °C the pc isotherms display the typical shape of materials where only a solid solution of deuterium is present while at lower temperatures these curves seem to be better described by the coexistence of a solid solution and a deuteride in a large composition range. The obtained results are compared and discussed with the ones previously measured with the lightest hydrogen isotope. Such a comparison shows that the Pd₇₇Ag₂₃ alloy exhibits a clear inverse isotope effect, as the equilibrium pressure of the Pd–Ag–D system is higher than in Pd–Ag–H by a factor of ≈2 and the solubility of deuterium is about one half of that of hydrogen. In addition, the absorption measurements were used to assess the deuteration enthalpy that below 300 °C is ΔH_deut = 31.9 ± 0.3 kJ/mol, while for temperatures higher than 300 °C, ΔH_deut increases to 43 ± 1 kJ/mol. Additionally, in this case a comparison with the lighter isotope is given and both deuteration enthalpy values result lower than those reported for hydrogenation. The results described in this paper are of practical interest for applications operating above 200 °C, such as membranes or packing column, in which Pd₇₇Ag₂₃ has to interact with a gas stream containing both hydrogen isotopes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Optimizing the Control System of Clinker Cooling: Process Modeling and Controller Tuning

by

Dimitris Tsamatsoulis

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030050 - 19 Aug 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2519

Abstract

This paper aims to present efficient efforts to optimize the proportional-integral-differential (PID) controller of clinker cooling in grate coolers, which have a fixed grate and at least two moving ones. The process model contains three transfer functions between the speed of the moving [...] Read more.

This paper aims to present efficient efforts to optimize the proportional-integral-differential (PID) controller of clinker cooling in grate coolers, which have a fixed grate and at least two moving ones. The process model contains three transfer functions between the speed of the moving grate and the pressures of the static and moving grates. The developed software achieves the identification of the model parameters using industrial data and by implementing non-linear regression methods. The design of the PID controller follows a loop-shaping technique, imposing as a constraint the maximum sensitivity, M_s, of the open-loop transfer function and providing a set of PIDs that satisfy a range of M_s. A simulator determines the optimal PID sets among those calculated at the design step using the integral of absolute error (IAE) as a performance criterion. The combination of a robustness constraint with a performance criterion, M_s and IAE respectively, leads to an area of controllers with M_s belonging to the range of 1.2 to 1.35. The IAE is between 4.2% and 4.8%, depending on the set-point value. PID sets located near the middle of this area can be chosen and implemented in the cooler’s routine operation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

In Silico Study of the Influence of Various Substrates on the Electronic Properties and Electrical Conductivity of Mono- and Bilayer Films of Armchair Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

by

Michael M. Slepchenkov

,

Alexander A. Petrunin

and

Olga E. Glukhova

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030048 - 09 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1534

Abstract

We investigate electronic and electro-physical properties of mono- and bilayer armchair single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films located on substrates of different types, including substrates in the form of crystalline silicon dioxide (SiO₂) films with P4₂/mnm and P3₁21 [...] Read more.

We investigate electronic and electro-physical properties of mono- and bilayer armchair single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films located on substrates of different types, including substrates in the form of crystalline silicon dioxide (SiO₂) films with P4₂/mnm and P3₁21 space symmetry groups. The SWCNT films interact with substrate only by van der Waals forces. The densities of electronic states (DOS) and the electron transmission functions are calculated for SWCNT films with various substrates. The electrical conductivity of SWCNT films is calculated based on the electron transmission function. It is found that the substrate plays an important role in the formation of DOS of the SWCNT films, and the surface topology determines the degree and nature of the mutual influence of the nanotube and the substrate. It is shown that the substrate affects the electronic properties of monolayer films, changing the electrical resistance value from 2% to 17%. However, the substrate has practically no effect on the electrical conductivity and resistance of the bilayer film in both directions of current transfer. In this case, the values of the resistances of the bilayer film in both directions of current transfer approach the value of ~6.4 kΩ, which is the lowest for individual SWCNT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Production of Sustainable Biochemicals by Means of Esterification Reaction and Heterogeneous Acid Catalysts

by

,

,

,

,

,

,

and

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030046 - 07 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2704

Abstract

In recent years, the use of renewable raw materials for the production of chemicals has been the subject of different studies. In particular, the interest of the present study was the use of oleins, mixtures of free fatty acids (FFAs), and oleic acid [...] Read more.

In recent years, the use of renewable raw materials for the production of chemicals has been the subject of different studies. In particular, the interest of the present study was the use of oleins, mixtures of free fatty acids (FFAs), and oleic acid to produce bio-based components for lubricants formulations and the investigation of the performance of a styrene-divinylbenzene acid resin (sPSB-SA) in the esterification reaction of fatty acids. This resin has shown good activity as a heterogeneous catalyst and high stability at elevated temperatures (180 °C). It was tested in the esterification reaction of oleic acid with 1,3-propanediol and of oleic acid with glycerol. In particular, the esterification reactions were performed in a steel stirred batch reactor and a PBR loop reactor. Tests were conducted varying the reaction conditions, such as alcohol type, temperature, reaction time, and catalysts, both homogeneous and heterogeneous ones. From the obtained results, acid resin (both in reticulated and not-reticulated form) showed high activity in esterification reaction of oleic acid with 1,3-propanediol and of oleic acid with glycerol and good resistance to the deactivation; thus, they can be considered promising candidates for future applications in continuous devices. Viscosity tests were performed, underlining the good properties of the obtained products as lubricant bases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessCommunication

2D Model of Transfer Processes for Water Boiling Flow in Microchannel

by

Valery A. Danilov

,

Christian Hofmann

and

Gunther Kolb

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030042 - 02 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2023

Abstract

The modeling of transfer processes is a step in the generalization and interpretation of experimental data on heat transfer. The developed two-dimensional model is based on a homogeneous mixture model for boiling water flow in a microchannel with a new evaporation submodel. The [...] Read more.

The modeling of transfer processes is a step in the generalization and interpretation of experimental data on heat transfer. The developed two-dimensional model is based on a homogeneous mixture model for boiling water flow in a microchannel with a new evaporation submodel. The outcome of the simulation is the distribution of velocity, void fraction and temperature profiles in the microchannel. The predicted temperature profile is consistent with the experimental literature data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

MoS₂-Cysteine Nanofiltration Membrane for Lead Removal

by

,

,

and

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030041 - 01 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2730

Abstract

To overcome the limitations of polymers, such as the trade-off relationship between water permeance and solute rejection, as well as the difficulty of functionalization, research on nanomaterials is being actively conducted. One of the representative nanomaterials is graphene, which has a two-dimensional shape [...] Read more.

To overcome the limitations of polymers, such as the trade-off relationship between water permeance and solute rejection, as well as the difficulty of functionalization, research on nanomaterials is being actively conducted. One of the representative nanomaterials is graphene, which has a two-dimensional shape and chemical tunability. Graphene is usually used in the form of graphene oxide in the water treatment field because it has advantages such as high water permeance and functionality on its surface. However, there is a problem in that it lacks physical stability under water-contacted conditions due to the high hydrophilicity. To overcome this problem, MoS₂, which has a similar shape to graphene and hydrophobicity, can be a new option. In this study, bulk MoS₂ was dispersed in a mixed solvent of acetone/isopropyl alcohol, and MoS₂ nanosheet was obtained by applying sonic energy to exfoliate. In addition, Cysteine was functionalized in MoS₂ with a mild reaction. When the nanofiltration (NF) performance of the membrane was compared under various conditions, the composite membrane incorporated by Cysteine 10 wt % (vs. MoS₂) showed the best NF performances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Exopolysaccharide (EPS) Production by Rhodotorula mucilaginosa sp. GUMS16

by

Oseweuba Valentine Okoro

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,

,

and

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030039 - 21 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3211

Abstract

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) are important biopolymers with diverse applications such as gelling compounds in food and cosmetic industries and as bio-flocculants in pollution remediation and bioplastics production. This research focuses on enhancing crude EPS production from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa sp. GUMS16 using the central composite [...] Read more.

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) are important biopolymers with diverse applications such as gelling compounds in food and cosmetic industries and as bio-flocculants in pollution remediation and bioplastics production. This research focuses on enhancing crude EPS production from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa sp. GUMS16 using the central composite design method in which five levels of process variables of sucrose, pH, and ammonium sulfate were investigated with sucrose and ammonium sulfate serving as carbon and nitrogen sources during microbial incubation. The optimal crude EPS production of 13.48 g/100 mL was achieved at 1 g/100 mL of sucrose concentration, 14.73 g/100 mL of ammonium sulfate at pH 5. Variations in ammonium sulfate concentrations (1.27–14.73 g/100 mL) presented the most significant effects on the crude EPS yield, while changes in sucrose concentrations (1–5 g/100 mL) constituted the least important process variable influencing the EPS yield. The Rhodotorula mucilaginosa sp. GUMS16 may have the potential for large-scale production of EPS for food and biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Intraparticle Model for Non-Uniform Active Phase Distribution Catalysts in a Batch Reactor

by

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,

and

ChemEngineering 2021, 5(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering5030038 - 19 Jul 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2255

Abstract

The study and the understanding of the importance of the morphological properties of heterogeneous catalysts can pave the way for important improvements in the performance of catalytic systems. Non-uniform active phase distribution catalysts are normally adopted for consecutive reactions to improve the selectivity [...] Read more.

The study and the understanding of the importance of the morphological properties of heterogeneous catalysts can pave the way for important improvements in the performance of catalytic systems. Non-uniform active phase distribution catalysts are normally adopted for consecutive reactions to improve the selectivity to the desired intermediate product. Attributes on which minor attention is paid, such as the distribution and thickness of the active phase, can be decisive in the final rationale of the catalyst synthesis strategy. Starting from a previous work, where a single non-uniform active phase model for catalyst particles was developed, a key step to control the entire system is to include the bulk-phase equations and related transport phenomena. For this purpose, this work proposes a modeling approach of a biphasic reactive system in a batch reactor in the presence of three different kinds of catalytic particles (egg shell, egg white, and egg yolk) whose distinction lies in the localization of the active zone. The reactive network consists of a couple of reactions in series, which take place exclusively on the solid surface, and the intermediate component is the main product of interest. To reveal the influence related to the type of catalyst, an extensive parametric study was conducted, varying several structural coefficients to highlight the changes in the intraparticle and bulk concentration profiles of the different chemical species. The main results can be considered of wide interest for the chemical reaction engineering community, as it was demonstrated that mass and heat transfer limitations affect the catalyst performance. For the chosen system, the egg shell catalyst normally led to better catalytic performances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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Review

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Open AccessReview

Modelling of Fuel Cells and Related Energy Conversion Systems

by

Ilenia Rossetti

ChemEngineering 2022, 6(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering6030032 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2228

Abstract

Heat and power cogeneration plants based on fuel cells are interesting systems for energy- conversion at low environmental impact. Various fuel cells have been proposed, of which proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) are the most frequently used. [...] Read more.

Heat and power cogeneration plants based on fuel cells are interesting systems for energy- conversion at low environmental impact. Various fuel cells have been proposed, of which proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) are the most frequently used. However, experimental testing rigs are expensive, and the development of commercial systems is time consuming if based on fully experimental activities. Furthermore, tight control of the operation of fuel cells is compulsory to avoid damage, and such control must be based on accurate models, able to predict cell behaviour and prevent stresses and shutdown. Additionally, when used for mobile applications, intrinsically dynamic operation is needed. Some selected examples of steady-state, dynamic and fluid-dynamic modelling of different types of fuel cells are here proposed, mainly dealing with PEMFC and SOFC types. The general ideas behind the thermodynamic, kinetic and transport description are discussed, with some examples of models derived for single cells, stacks and integrated power cogeneration units. This review can be considered an introductory picture of the modelling methods for these devices, to underline the different approaches and the key aspects to be taken into account. Examples of different scales and multi-scale modelling are also provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Chemical Engineering)

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