Search Results (7,632)

In this work, Mo-doped Co₃O₄ nanostructures were synthesized through a simple solvothermal method. To characterize the structures of the pure Co₃O₄ and Mo-doped Co₃O₄ samples, a variety of analytical techniques, such as XRD, SAED, TEM, SEM and XPS, were utilized. The analysis of the gas sensing performance indicated that the 1 at% Mo-doped Co₃O₄ sensor exhibited optimal sensing performance for low concentrations of n-butanol, achieving a notable R_g/R_a ratio of 9.53 at 10 ppm at a lower operating temperature of 150 °C. This performance was approximately four times that of pure Co₃O₄, with a response time of 81 s and a recovery time of 66 s. Additionally, the sensor also exhibited outstanding gas selectivity and repeatability. The incorporation of Mo significantly improved the catalytic activity and sensitivity of Co₃O₄, primarily due to the increased formation of oxygen vacancies and the modification of the electronic structure. These changes facilitated more efficient gas adsorption and faster response times. Therefore, the Mo-doped Co₃O₄ sensor exhibits considerable potential for detecting n-butanol gas. Full article

Additive manufacturing is gaining importance in a number of application areas, and there is an increased demand for mechanically resilient components. A way to improve the mechanical properties of parts made of thermoplastics is by using reinforcing material. The study demonstrates the development of a monitoring procedure for a fused filament fabrication-based co-extrusion process for manufacturing wire-reinforced thermoplastic components. Test components in two variants are produced, and data acquisition is carried out with a laser line scanner. The collected data are employed to train deep neural networks to classify the printed layers, aiming for the deep neural networks to be able to classify four different classes and identify layers with insufficient quality. A dedicated convolutional neural network is designed taking into account various factors such as layer architecture, data pre-processing and optimization methods. Several network architectures, including transfer learning (based on VGG16 and ResNet50), with and without fine-tuning, are compared in terms of their performance based on the F1 score. Both the transfer learning model with ResNet50 and the fine-tuning model achieve an F1 score of 84% and 83%, respectively, for the decisive class ‘wire bad’ classifying inadequate reinforcement. Full article

Road transport significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions in all places where it is used and therefore also in Europe, prompting the EU to set ambitious objectives for CO₂ reduction. In order to reach these objectives, the automotive industry is transitioning to electric vehicles, utilizing electric powertrains powered by battery packs. However, the longevity and reliability of these batteries are critical concerns. This review paper focuses on the advanced diagnostic techniques for effective battery State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH) monitoring. Accurate SoC/SoH estimation is crucial for optimizing battery performance, avoiding premature degradation, and ensuring driver safety. By investigating these areas, this paper aims to contribute to the development of more sustainable and durable electric vehicles, supporting the transition to cleaner transportation systems. Full article

In the search of increasingly effective materials for enhancing gas transport in membranes, the incorporation of ionic liquids within a polymeric matrix is attracting a lot of interest in the development of advanced membranes to be applied to CO₂ separation. An analysis of the open literature focusing on polymer/IL blend membranes, in which a polymer matrix hosts an ionic liquid, was carried out, showing the effects of different composition dependences on CO₂ permeability. The peculiar permeability profiles were attributed to the specific interactions established between the ionic liquid and the polymer matrix rather than to the state of the polymer matrix. Hansen’s solubility parameters were considered to represent CO₂ transport in polymer/IL blend membranes by linking them to interactions between the ionic liquid and the polymer matrix. Through an appropriate rearrangement of the solubility parameters, 2D maps were utilized as an immediate and easy tool to identify the best polymer/ionic liquid combination before even performing laboratory experiments. Full article

Direct-fed microbials (DFMs) have shown the potential to improve livestock performance and overall health. Extensive research has been conducted to identify new DFMs and understand their mechanisms of action in the gut. Bacillus species are multifunctional spore-forming bacteria that exhibit resilience to harsh conditions, making them ideal candidates for applications in the feed industry and livestock production. This study investigates the mode of action of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis in the rumen using diverse in vitro techniques. Our results revealed that both strains germinated and grew in sterile rumen and intestinal contents from dairy cows and bulls. Gas composition analysis of in vitro cultures in a medium containing 40% rumen fluid demonstrated that germination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis strains reduced oxygen levels, promoting an anaerobic environment favorable to rumen microbes. Enzymatic activity assays showed that B. licheniformis released sugars from complex substrates and purified polysaccharides in filtered rumen content. Additionally, the combination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis survived and grew in the presence of a commercial monensin dose in rumen fluid media. The effects of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis on rumen fermentation activity and microbiota were studied using an in vitro batch fermentation assay. In fermenters that received a combination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis, less CO₂ was produced while dry matter degradation and CH₄ production was comparable to the control condition, indicating better efficiency of dry matter utilization by the microbiota. The investigation of microbiota composition between supplemented and control fermenters showed no significant effect on alpha and beta diversity. However, the differential analysis highlighted changes in several taxa between the two conditions. Altogether, our data suggests that the administration of these strains of Bacillus could have a beneficial impact on rumen function, and consequently, on health and performance of ruminants. Full article

The purpose of this work was to consider the decolorization efficiency of reactive yellow 160 (Ry-160) dye utilizing cobalt aluminum oxide (AlCo₂O₄)-anchored Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs) nanocomposites as catalysts for the first time in a photocatalytic process under natural sunlight irradiation. The compositional, morphological, and functional group analyses of AlCo₂O₄ and AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs were performed by utilizing Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, respectively. A UV-Vis (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer was used to investigate degradation efficiency. The results exhibited a reduction in the optical bandgap for AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs nanocomposites as catalysts from 1.5 to 1.3 eV compared with pure spinel AlCo₂O₄ nanocomposites. AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs nanocomposites showed excellent photocatalytic behavior, and around 96% degradation of Ry-160 dye was observed in just 20 min under natural sunlight, showing first-order kinetics with rate constant of 0.151 min⁻¹. The results exhibited outstanding stability and reusability for AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs by maintaining more than 90% photocatalytic efficiency even after seven successive operational cycles. The betterment of the photocatalytic behavior of AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs nanocomposites as compared to AlCo₂O₄ nanocomposites owes to the first-rate storage capacity of electrons in MWCNTs, due to which the catalyst became an excellent electron acceptor. Furthermore, the permeable structure of MWCNTs results in a greater surface area leading to the onset of more active sites, and, in turn, it also boosts conductivity and reduces the formation of agglomerates on the surface of catalysts, which inhibits e−/h⁺ pair recombination. Concisely, the synthesis of a novel AlCo₂O₄/MWCNTs catalyst with excellent and fast photocatalytic activity was the aim of this study. Full article

Non-centrosomal microtubule-organizing centers (ncMTOCs) are important for the function of differentiated cells. Yet, ncMTOCs are poorly understood. Previously, several components of the nuclear envelope (NE)-MTOC have been identified. However, the temporal localization of MTOC proteins and Golgi to the NE and factors controlling the switch from a centrosomal MTOC to a ncMTOC remain elusive. Here, we utilized the in vitro differentiation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts as a model system to study NE-MTOC formation. We find based on longitudinal co-immunofluorescence staining analyses that MTOC proteins are recruited in a sequential and gradual manner to the NE. AKAP9 localizes with the Golgi to the NE after the recruitment of MTOC proteins. Moreover, siRNA-mediated depletion experiments revealed that Mbnl2 is required for proper NE-MTOC formation by regulating the expression levels of AKAP6β. Finally, Mbnl2 depletion affects Pcnt isoform expression. Taken together, our results shed light on how mammals post-transcriptionally control the switch from a centrosomal MTOC to an NE-MTOC and identify Mbnl2 as a novel modulator of ncMTOCs in skeletal muscle cells. Full article

L-theanine, a unique non-protein amino acid predominantly found in tea plants (Camellia sinensis), plays a pivotal role in plant responses to abiotic stress and significantly influences tea quality. In this review, the metabolism and transport mechanisms of L-theanine are comprehensively discussed, highlighting its spatial distribution in tea plants, where it is most abundant in young leaves and less so in roots, stems, and older leaves. The biosynthesis of L-theanine occurs through the enzymatic conversion of glutamate and ethylamine, catalyzed by theanine synthase, primarily in the roots, from where it is transported to aerial parts of the plant for further catabolism. Environmental factors such as temperature, light, drought, elevated CO₂, nutrient unavailability, and heavy metals significantly affect theanine biosynthesis and hydrolysis, with plant hormones and transcription factors playing crucial regulatory roles. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that applying L-theanine exogenously improves other crops’ resistance to a range of abiotic stresses, suggesting its potential utility in improving crop resilience amid climate change. This review aims to elucidate the physiological mechanisms and biological functions of L-theanine metabolism under stress conditions, providing a theoretical foundation for enhancing tea quality and stress resistance in tea cultivation. Full article

Excessive (carbon dioxide) CO₂ emissions are a primary factor contributing to climate change. As one of the crucial technologies for alleviating CO₂ emissions, carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technology has attracted considerable global attention. Technologies for capturing CO₂ in extreme circumstances are indispensable for regulating CO₂ levels in industrial processes. The unique separation characteristics of the ceramic–carbonate dual-phase (CCDP) membranes are increasingly employed for CO₂ separation at high temperatures due to their outstanding chemical, thermal durability, and mechanical strength. This paper presents an overview of CO₂ capture approaches and materials. It also elaborates on the research progress of three types of CCDP membranes with distinct permeation mechanisms, concentrating on their principles, materials, and structures. Additionally, several typical membrane reactors, such as the dry reforming of methane (DRM) and reverse water–gas shift (RWGS), are discussed to demonstrate how captured CO₂ can function as a soft oxidant, converting feedstocks into valuable products through oxidation pathways designed within a single reactor. Finally, the future challenges and prospects of high-temperature CCDP membrane technologies and their related reactors are proposed. Full article

This study focuses on the modeling, simulation, and optimization of an integrated biomass gasification and methanation process to produce bio-synthetic natural gas (Bio-SNG) as part of the AIRE project. The process was simulated using Aspen Plus^® software, incorporating experimental results from pilot-scale gasification setups. Key steps involved syngas production in a dual fluidized bed gasifier and its subsequent conversion to Bio-SNG in a methanation section. Heat integration strategies were implemented to enhance system results demonstrate that optimized heat recovery, achieved by utilizing exothermic methanation reactions to preheat gasification inputs, eliminates the need for auxiliary fuel in the gasification process. The optimized system achieved a thermal recovery rate of 80%, a cold gas efficiency of 79%, a Bio-SNG production rate of 0.4 Nm³/kg_Biom, and a methane content of 85 vol.%. These optimizations reduced CO₂ emissions by 10% while increasing overall energy efficiency. This work highlights the potential of integrating biomass gasification and methanation processes with heat recovery for sustainable methane production. The findings provide a basis for scaling up the process and further exploring syngas utilization pathways to produce renewable energy carriers. Full article

In carbon dioxide capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology, CO₂ flooding and storage is currently the most effective geological storage method and the flow law of the gas injection wellbore is the key to achieving safe and efficient CO₂ injection. The existing wellbore flow model lacks research on the corrosion law. To this end, this paper established a gas injection wellbore flow-heat transfer-corrosion coupling model based on the actual situation of Huang 3 District of the CCUS Demonstration Base of Changqing Oilfield. The field measured data verification showed that the relative average error of the model in predicting pressure and temperature was less than 7.5% and the R² of the predicted value and the measured value was greater than 0.99. The model was used for sensitivity analysis to evaluate the effects of different gas injection temperatures (15–55 °C), pressures (15–55 MPa), displacements (10–500 t/d) and CO₂ contents (50–100%) on wellbore temperature, pressure and corrosion rate, and the wellbore flow law under different gas injection conditions was clarified. The results show that the wellbore temperature, pressure and corrosion rate are significantly affected by gas injection parameters. The wellbore temperature increases with the increase of gas injection temperature and decreases with the increase of gas injection displacement. The wellbore pressure is positively correlated with the gas injection pressure and CO₂ content and the gas injection temperature and displacement have little effect on the pressure. The corrosion rate increases with the increase of gas injection temperature and displacement and decreases with the increase of gas injection pressure. In the wellbore, it shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with depth. The wellbore corrosion rate is affected by many factors. Reasonable adjustment of gas injection parameters (lowering temperature, increasing pressure, controlling displacement and CO₂ content) can effectively slow down the wellbore corrosion loss. The research results can provide a theoretical basis for the optimization of gas injection system. Full article

The wet carbonation of coal gangue-based backfilling slurry (CGBS) is considered to be an effective method for the resource utilization of coal gangue solid waste and CO₂ sequestration, but CO₂ sequestration has a negative impact on the rheological properties of CGBS. This investigation explores the effect of carbonization pressure on the rheological properties and CO₂ sequestration properties of CGBS by using a carbonization reactor, a rheometer, X-ray diffraction, a nitrogen adsorption–desorption instrument, a scanning electron microscope and other testing methods. The results show that increasing the carbonization pressure can increase the CO₂ sequestration capacity of CGBS, and the carbonization products produced make the pores of CGBS smaller and the structure more compact; however, increasing the carbonization pressure will reduce the rheological properties of the slurry, and the optimal carbonization pressure is 0.7 MPa. At this time, the yield stress, plastic viscosity and hysteresis loop area of CGBS are 171.66 Pa, 0.0998 Pa·s and 1376 Pa/s, respectively. However, when the carbonization pressure is further increased, the CO₂ sequestration capacity tends to remain unchanged. This is mainly because the carbonization pressure causes the carbonization reaction to intensify, forming a calcified layer on the particle surface, which hinders the penetration of CO₂ into the particles. This study is of great significance for improving the utilization rate of gangue solid waste and CO₂ sequestration. Full article

The Aburrá Valley, located in the northwestern region of Colombia, has undergone significant land cover changes and urban expansion in recent decades, driven by rapid population growth and infrastructure development. This region, known for its steep topography and dense urbanization, faces considerable environmental challenges. Monitoring these transformations is essential for informed territorial planning and sustainable development. This study leverages Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery from the Sentinel-1 mission, covering 2017–2024, to propose a methodology for the multitemporal analysis of land cover dynamics and urban expansion in the valley. The novel proposed methodology comprises several steps: first, monthly SAR images were acquired for every year under study from 2017 to 2024, ensuring the capture of surface changes. These images were properly calibrated, rescaled, and co-registered. Then, various multitemporal fusions using statistics operations were proposed to detect and find different phenomena related to land cover and urban expansion. The methodology also involved statistical fusion techniques—median, mean, and standard deviation—to capture urbanization dynamics. The kurtosis calculations highlighted areas where infrequent but significant changes occurred, such as large-scale construction projects or sudden shifts in land use, providing a statistical measure of surface variability throughout the study period. An advanced clustering technique segmented images into distinctive classes, utilizing fuzzy logic and a kernel-based method, enhancing the analysis of changes. Additionally, Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to explore the relationships between identified land cover change classes and their spatial distribution across nine distinct geographic zones in the Aburrá Valley. The results highlight a marked increase in urbanization, particularly along the valley’s periphery, where previously vegetated areas have been replaced by built environments. Additionally, the visual inspection analysis revealed areas of high variability near river courses and industrial zones, indicating ongoing infrastructure and construction projects. These findings emphasize the rapid and often unplanned nature of urban growth in the region, posing challenges to both natural resource management and environmental conservation efforts. The study underscores the need for the continuous monitoring of land cover changes using advanced remote sensing techniques like SAR, which can overcome the limitations posed by cloud cover and rugged terrain. The conclusions drawn suggest that SAR-based multitemporal analysis is a robust tool for detecting and understanding urbanization’s spatial and temporal dynamics in regions like the Aburrá Valley, providing vital data for policymakers and planners to promote sustainable urban development and mitigate environmental degradation. Full article

Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technology is recognized as a pivotal strategy to mitigate global climate change. The CO₂ storage and enhanced oil recovery (CCUS-EOR) technology not only enhances oil recovery rates but also contributes to significant reductions in CO₂ emissions, with significant social and economic benefits. This paper examines the application of CO₂-EOR technology in both enhancing oil recovery and facilitating geological CO₂ storage, and analyzes its implementation status and differences in the United States and China. Through experimental investigations conducted in a specific oilfield, we analyze the effects of dissolved CO₂ on the viscosity–temperature characteristics, yield value under pressure, stability, and rheological properties of crude oil and produced fluids. Additionally, we assess the demulsification effectiveness of various demulsifiers. Our findings indicate that both dissolved CO₂ in crude oil and emulsions exhibit non-Newtonian fluid behavior characterized by shear thinning, and the viscosity decreases with the increase in temperature and pressure. Furthermore, the presence of dissolved CO₂ exacerbates the oil–water separation phenomenon in produced fluids, thereby diminishing emulsion stability. The increase in emulsion concentration and the increase in emulsification temperature are both conducive to improving the emulsification rate. These research results provide critical insights for pipeline design and pump selection in oilfield production processes. Full article

With the growing interest in reducing CO₂ emissions to combat climate change, humanity is turning to green or renewable sources of electricity. There are numerous issues associated with the development of these sources. One of the key aspects of renewable energy sources is their problematic controllability, namely the control of energy production over time. Renewable sources are also associated with issues of recycling, utilization in different geographical zones, environmental impact within the required area, and so on. One of the most discussed issues today, however, is the question of efficient use of the energy produced from these sources. There are several different approaches to storing renewable energy, e.g., supercapacitors, flywheels, batteries, PCMs, pumped-storage hydroelectricity, and flow batteries. In the commercial sector, however, mainly due to acquisition costs, these options are narrowed down to only one concept: storing energy using an electrochemical storage device—batteries. Nowadays, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are the most widespread battery type. Despite many advantages of LIB technology, the availability of materials needed for the production of these batteries and the associated costs must also be considered. Thus, this battery type is not very ideal for large-scale stationary energy storage applications. Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are considered one of the most promising alternatives to LIBs in the field of stationary battery storage, as sodium (Na) is the most abundant alkali metal in the Earth’s crust, and the cell manufacturing process of SIBs is similar to that of LIBs. Unfortunately, considering the physical and electrochemical properties of Na, different electrode materials, electrolytes, and so on, are required. SIBs have come a long way since they were discovered. This review discusses the latest developments regarding the materials used in SIB technology. Full article