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Pursuing enhanced nutritional value in bakery products through technological advancements and new recipes is a promising facet of the food industry. This study focuses on incorporating rice and buckwheat brans, additional raw materials rich in biologically active substances, into bakery products. Utilizing a second-order rotatable plan, optimal ratios were determined—5% rice bran and 10% buckwheat bran. The application of these brans influenced dough and bread quality, reducing sugar content by 5% in dry form and 29% in the fermented brew, potentially aiding in diabetes prevention and cholesterol control. Introducing brans, especially in fermented brew, positively impacted microbiological stability, reducing the risk of mold and potato disease. The developed bread technology using rice and buckwheat brans in fermented brew significantly increased nutritional value, satisfying adult daily protein needs by 31.2%, fats by 15%, and dietary fibers by 18.4%. This innovative approach ensures a sufficient intake of essential vitamins and minerals, showcasing a promising avenue for creating healthier and more nutritious bakery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calculations and experimental methods are used to study the collective and individual effect of Zn, Mg, Fe, and Si additions on the phase composition and structure of cast and cold-rolled aluminum alloys containing 2% Cu and 1.5% Mn. The combined additions of these elements of more than 3% to the base alloy were found to allow the mechanical properties of cold-rolled alloys to be kept at a level of properties of deformed base alloy despite the substantial complication of the phase composition. This largely is due to the completely fixing iron into the eutectic inclusions of the Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase. From this, it follows the fundamental possibility of using a variety of secondary raw materials for the preparation of this alloy, which does not require homogenizing and quenching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Almaty Technological University is the property of Almaty Technological University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of extruded preparations on the bioactive and nutritional properties, vitamin B content, volatile compound profile, and quality of whole wheat bread. Extruded preparations based on stale bread (secondary raw materials) and apple pomace (byproducts) were used as bread additives. It was found that the preparations did not enrich the bread in protein but in health-promoting compounds, especially gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, rutin, quercetin, and B vitamins. Extruded preparations had a positive effect on the quality of the bread produced, such as yield and cohesiveness, and gave it a pleasant aroma. It was shown that among all the examined bread samples with added extruded preparations of stale bread, the cornmeal and apple pomace bread samples with 15% extruded preparation (containing 55% cornmeal, 30% stale bread, and 15% apple pomace) had sufficient nutritional value, the highest amounts of gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, rutin, and quercetin; medium amounts of ellagic acid; high antioxidant activity determined in vitro using four methods (by DPPH, ABTS, power (FRAP), and Fe(II) chelating assays); adequate quality; and significant amounts of vitamins, especially B1, B2, and B3. This type of extruded preparation should utilize apple pomace, which is a byproduct, and stale bread, which is a secondary waste. Such a combination is an excellent low-cost, easy, and prospective solution for the baking industry that could be applied to obtain bread with elevated nutritional value and enhanced health potential, as proven in this publication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling and reusing phosphorus in agriculture can reduce the consumption of natural phosphorus resources, which are continuing to shrink. Phosphorus fertilizers made from renewable raw materials (sewage sludge ash, animal bones, dried animal blood) and activated with phosphorus solubilizing microorganisms (Bacillus megaterium, Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans) offer an alternative to conventional fertilizers. These products should meet consumer and environmental safety standards. In this paper, based on field experiments conducted in northeast Poland, the effects of waste-derived biofertilizers on selected parameters of wheat yield quality are discussed. The study focuses on the technological properties of the grain (hectoliter weight, hardness index, Zeleny index, starch, wet gluten, and protein content), the content of proteogenic amino acids, macro- and micronutrients, and selected toxic elements in the grain. The quality parameters of wheat grain were not affected by the tested biofertilizers applied in P doses up to 35.2 kg ha−1, nor by conventional fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shift from the current extractive linear production and consumption system to a circular economy (CE) has been heralded as a way to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of human economic activity. The European Union (EU) has committed to leading the way to a worldwide CE, with the development of an international market of recyclable raw materials (RRM) as one of the main pillars of its strategy. However, there is extensive evidence regarding the unequal distribution of the economic benefits and environmental damages related to international trade. Therefore, the objective of a global fair transition to a CE may be undermined if the related markets continue to reproduce the prevailing patterns of ecologically unequal exchange. In order to test whether or not this is the case, this research studies the physical trade balance and the terms of trade on the recent RRM trade flows from, to and between the EU27 member states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Vestnik KazUTB is the property of Kazakh University of Technology & Business and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The research investigates the patterns of rare earth elements (REE) extraction from ash-slag waste of thermal power plants using sintering processes. The aim of the study was to determine the optimal parameters for the process: the composition of the flux, the ratio of the sintering flux to the waste, and the sintering temperature. It has been shown that the change in the type of sintering reagent, its ratio to the waste, and the process temperature significantly affect the degree of REE extraction from the insoluble form in ash-slag to the soluble form in sinter. The optimal sintering temperatures (300-4500C) for the extraction of REE from ashslag waste have been determined. The influence of various sintering reagents on the process of REE extraction from ash-slag waste has been investigated. It has been shown that the use of sodium hydroxide as a sintering reagent allows increasing the degree of REE extraction from waste up to 100%. Based on the analysis of the obtained experimental data, the main technological parameters of REE extraction in sinter have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Almaty Technological University is the property of Almaty Technological University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Mineral Resources Management / Gospodarka Surowcami Mineralnymi is the property of Mineral & Energy Economy Research Institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

An effective air-impact method for mechanochemical processes of activation of secondary raw materials in the production of building materials has been proposed. In order to increase the specific surface area of the binder and accelerate the strength gain of fast-hardening concrete mixtures, a model for calculating aeroactivators has been created on the basis of new technological equipment for activating cement, sand, and production waste. The proposed model establishes the dependence of the destruction rate of the contaminating shell of particles on the mechanical impact of the blows and physical–mechanical characteristics of the materials. To improve the performance characteristics of the aeroactivator, experimental studies have been carried out, the results of which made it possible to determine rational parameters of the improved installation and confirm the correctness of the developed design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this manuscript is to collect, classify, and compile all available data about secondary mineral sources of REEs in the South-Eastern Europe (SEE). The material is generated from the extracting and processing sector, that might be possibly transformed in the business process becoming an important raw material for another industry. The management inventory guide will strengthen communication and dissemination efforts and simultaneously contribute to Europe's self-sufficiency and support transitioning to green and digital technology. Identification of the knowledge gaps associated with secondary sources of REEs in SEE will contribute to connections between all partners being involved at the beginning, during the lifetime of products and at the end of the life cycle, represented with deposit owners, technology developers and potential processors, producers, and potential users. At the investigated area it was found 1835 individual landfills, most of them belonging to waste rocks. The total quantity of all material in SRM is about 3.2 billion tons on an area of about 100 km2. The largest 95 individual landfills were selected as potential prospective landfills, containing about 1600 million tons of material. The estimated total potential of REEs (ΣREE) is more than 200 Kt. The largest quantities are found in landfills for coal fly ash and Cu flotation, which correspond to more than 80% of the ΣREE. Most of the promising sites are located in Serbia and North Macedonia. It has been calculated that the valorisation potential and perspectivity of REE2O3 is about 32.5 billion USD (prices from December 2022). According to the average concentrations of REEs, the most prospective are the red mud dams but their total volume is limited compared to massive amounts of coal fly ash landfills. The REEs content in all type of investigated materials, especially in coal fly ash in North Macedonia is twice as high as in other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemie Ingenieur Technik (CIT) is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Urban areas comprise less than 1% of the Earth's land surface, yet they host more than half the global population and are responsible for the majority of global energy use and related CO2 emissions. Urbanization is increasing the speed and local intensity of water cycle exploitation, with a large number of cities suffering from water shortage problems globally. Wastewater (used water) contains considerable amounts of embedded energy and recoverable materials. Studies and applications have demonstrated that recovering or re-capturing water, energy, and materials from wastewater is a viable endeavor, with several notable examples worldwide. Reclaiming all these resources through more widespread application of effective technological approaches could be feasible and potentially profitable, although challenging from several points of view. This paper reviews the possibilities and technical opportunities applicable to the mining of resources within the urban water cycle and discusses emerging technologies and issues pertaining to resource recovery and reuse applications. The present and future sustainability of approaches is also discussed. Since sewage management issues are not "one size fits all", local conditions must be carefully considered when designing optimal local resource recovery solutions, which are influenced not just by technology but also by multiple economic, geographical, and social factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the world has witnessed one of the most severe raw material crises ever recorded, with serious repercussions for maintaining its agri-food supply chain. This crisis risks dramatically impacting the poorest areas of the planet and poses profound reflections on global food security. In this complex geopolitical context, the recovery and recycling of renewable resources have become an obligatory path and, today, more than ever, essential in the fertiliser industry. To achieve these objectives, TIMAC AGRO Italia S.p.A. has undertaken a research activity to review the formulation of fertilisers by diversifying the raw materials used and introducing recycled raw materials. This article carried out a life cycle assessment (LCA) on four fertilisers to identify and quantify whether the changes influenced the environmental impacts, highlighting how applying the circular economy within industrial processes can reduce the pressure on natural resources. The results demonstrate that the global warming potential (GWP) impacts of the different reformulated fertilisers show a considerable variation of 4.4–9.2% due to the various raw materials used, the nitrogen content, and related emissions deriving from environmental dispersion. This study shows the importance of the LCA methodology to analyse and quantify the impact categories generated on the life cycle of fertiliser production and to identify the optimal by-products and end-of-waste for the fertiliser industry to find a synergy between environmental and agronomic performance. It also highlights the relevance of the transition to circular production and consumption systems to reduce environmental pressures and their effects on communities and ecosystems without compromising yields. Finally, the positive results encourage accelerating the circular transition and finding alternatives to virgin-mined raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article substantiates the effect of the concentration of polymer thickener on such basic properties of the plastic lubricant as dripping temperature (td.p., ℃) and adhesive properties (ADG). It was defined that, unlike (td.p., ℃), the ADG indicator is more informative for defining the optimal concentration of the polymer thickener in plastic lubricants produced from secondary raw materials. Determination of the ADG indicator was performed in a laboratory centrifuge, based on the amount of plastic lubricant that remained on the metal plate after the study. This amount should be at the level of 50 % of the initial value. Experimental studies have shown that the optimal concentration in the composition of the lubricant is: in the case of HDPE, 5.0 % for SAE15W-40 oil, 4.3 % for SAE 75W-90 oil, 6.3 % for BP Energol CS68 and HLP-46 oil; in the case of LDPE, this concentration is equal to 7.0 % for SAE15W-40 oil, 5.2 % for SAE 75W-90 oil, 7.4 % for BP Energol CS68 and HLP-46 oil; in the case of PP, this concentration is equal to 7.5 % for SAE15W-40 oil, 6.2 % for SAE 75W-90 oil, 8.0 % for BP Energol CS68 and HLP-46 oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of photovoltaic modules has been a topic of increasing interest over the last years. At industrial scale, delamination of the module structure, which represents the first step in the recycling process, is currently achieved by multi-stage crushing. However, the quality of the outputs obtained through subsequent processing is low and offers room for improvement. Milling was investigated as an alternative physical delamination method. Lab-scale experiments were conducted to evaluate the applicability of the technology in general, as well as comparing a process by which all non-glass layers are removed at the same time (one-step) with one where the backsheet is removed as a separate fraction (two-step). Furthermore, a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the resulting outputs in each case was performed. Results show effective delamination by the milling process. Advantages in comparison to the currently used delamination techniques are identified in regard to the quality of the recovered glass, which is separated directly during delamination as well as the fact that the subsequent processing can therefore be focused on the polymers, metals and silicon contained within the removed materials. Some possibly problematic aspects in regard to upscaling have also been identified and discussed. While the two-step process enables the recovery of more homogenous outputs, it is also associated with a higher effort regarding input characterization and the milling process itself. In order to reach a conclusion about which process option is more feasible, additional investigations concerning the milling process, the input material and the output fractions are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is dedicated to the possibilities of using new alternative raw materials in the structure of aerated autoclaved concrete. Primary sources of raw materials are exhaustible and their price is increasing. According to the ecological requirements of the European Union, it is necessary to find many more ecological ways how to produce building materials. Production of aerated autoclaved concrete is for such utilization potentially suitable. It is well known, that the partial replacement of siliceous constituents is possible. This article is focused on the use of dispersed siliceous waste material with fiber‐like grains (e.g., waste fibers from the production of reinforcement fabrics and glass). The input raw materials are standard aerated autoclaved concrete based (cement, lime, silica sand). As an aerating agent was the aluminum powder. This article is dedicated to the determination of basic physical‐mechanical properties and a suitable amount of filler determination. The amount was determined on the basis of the constructive quality coefficient. It seems that partial replacement of the siliceous constituent by fiber‐like materials leads to improvement of properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of BHM Berg- und Hüttenmännische Monatshefte is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Scientific Bulletin of National Mining University is the property of National Mining University, State Higher Educational Institution and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose. The research purpose is to study the physical-chemical properties of ash and slag waste generated during the coal combustion at the Ekibastuz field in Kazakhstan, to determine the possibility of using waste as a secondary resource to reduce the negative human impact on the environment. Methods. The research uses the methods of X-ray phase and differential thermal analysis, as well as chemical analysis. The X-ray phase analysis makes it possible to determine the phase composition and structure of ash and slag wastes, while differential thermal analysis is used to study their behavior with temperature changes. A chemical analysis is performed to determine the composition of ash and slag. Findings. The chemical and granulometric composition of ash and slag waste from the Ekibastuz field coal combustion has been determined. Analysis of the ash chemical composition showed that its main components are silicon and aluminum oxides, as well as a significant amount of iron oxide. The results obtained confirm the possibility of using ash and slag waste as a secondary raw material to reduce the negative impact on the environment. Originality. It has been revealed that the thermal conductivity, ultimate strength and water-absorption of ceramic brick samples depend on the amount of ash added and the firing temperature. The possibility of obtaining building materials with minimum cement content has also been substantiated, which is a new and promising approach, given the high cost of cement as the main building material. Practical implications. The practical value of the research is in solving environmental problems associated with the use of ash and slag waste. Using these wastes as a secondary raw material, it is possible to reduce the anthropogenic burden on the environment, as well as the volume of ash dumps. In addition, vacant land previously occupied by ash and slag mixtures can be used for economic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work considers the possibilities of complex processing of ash and slag waste of thermal power plants. The work contains technological data of acid, alkaline and fluoride processing of ash slag. The chemical composition of ash and slag waste of the Dnipropetrovsk region was established. It was established that when using acid technology of processing with mineral acids, preliminary magnetic separation is a mandatory condition. Leaching of the obtained magnetic and non-magnetic fractions is carried out at 105°C for 2 hours. At the same time, a more complete extraction is observed from the magnetic fraction. In addition, it is possible to remove liquid and scattered elements. It has been established that a wide range of sodium-based alkaline compounds can be used in alkaline processing technology. At the same time, scandium, gallium and alumina can be extracted. The process temperature is 50°C for 2 hours. It was established that for more complete processing of waste, the sintering process is carried out at 1400-1500°C. The residue from alkaline processing is used in construction. It has been established that when using the fluoride technology of ash slag processing, aluminosilicate compounds can be processed more fully due to the extraction of silicon, which makes it possible to gradually obtain aluminum and iron from the waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red mud (RM) is the main residue produced by the alkaline extraction of alumina (Al2O3) from bauxite, and it contains valuable metals such as iron (Fe), aluminium (Al), titanium (Ti), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), rare earth elements, etc. This research aimed to investigate the biologically induced leaching of some valuable elements from raw RM without preliminary biomass enrichment and inoculum, simultaneously reducing RM polluting potential and extracting metals for their subsequent recovery within a circular economy-based approach. In addition to the missing inoculum, such an approach is challenging since high RM alkalinity and pH, as well as the absence of any sulphides, constrain the use of the most common biohydrometallurgical techniques. Red Muds from two European locations were tested (RM-I and RM-II, respectively). Bioleaching tests were performed at different temperatures (T = 22 °C and 28 °C; and also 15 °C for RM-II) and solid-to-liquid ratios (S/L = 2%, 5%). A sudden drop in pH from alkaline to constant neutral/acidic values was observed in almost all tests, and such results were attributed to biological activity since abiotic tests did not show any pH decrease. The best results in terms of extraction were achieved with RM-II, in particular for Al, Mg and Mn (17%, 42% and 47%, respectively). At 2% S/L, the highest temperature allowed for a better metal release, while at 5% S/L, the highest extraction of Al, Mg and Ti was observed at 22 °C. As expected, iron was less available to leach at the achieved pH values, as it was mostly present as hematite in both RMs. Finally, the first microbiological characterisation of the autochthonous biomass selected during the bioleaching treatment of RM was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global situations such as economic recovery after a pandemic, geopolitical instability, and future digital and energy transition are some of the drivers for the European Union (EU) to explore new and existing sources of raw materials. The Iberian Pyrite Belt in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) hosts a great number of tailing deposits from centuries of mining operations. A unique tailings deposit has been studied and characterized. The similarities with other tailing deposits deeply studied suggested the presence of critical raw materials. Furthermore, a very gross reserves estimation was made. The characterization and reserves estimations were compared with the bibliography from mining companies who operated in the area decades ago and from the bibliography available at Fundación Riotinto. The presence of critical raw materials was confirmed, some of them in high concentrations. Moreover, a singular difference was found compared with other similar tailings stored within the Iberian Pyrite Belt. The main valuable metals identified were Au (2.25 ppm), Ag (215 ppm), Co (131 ppm) and Cu (0.29%). The reserves estimation showed that this deposit potentially hosts 1.86 t of Au, 177 t of Ag, 108 t of Co or 2358 t of Cu; in other words, with a copper average price of 8366 US$/t in December 2022, the tailings deposit contains a potential value of more than 19 million USD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metals are essential in our daily lives and have a finite supply, being simultaneously contaminants of concern. The current carbon emissions and environmental impact of mining are untenable. We need to reclaim metals sustainably from secondary resources, like waste. Biotechnology can be applied in metal recovery from waste streams like fly ashes and bottom ashes of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI). They represent substantial substance flows, with roughly 46 million tons of MSWI ashes produced annually globally, equivalent in elemental richness to low-grade ores for metal recovery. Next-generation methods for resource recovery, as in particular bioleaching, give the opportunity to recover critical materials and metals, appropriately purified for noble applications, in waste treatment chains inspired by circular economy thinking. In this critical review, we can identify three main lines of discussion: (1) MSWI material characterization and related environmental issues; (2) currently available processes for recycling and metal recovery; and (3) microbially assisted processes for potential recycling and metal recovery. Research trends are chiefly oriented to the potential exploitation of bioprocesses in the industry. Biotechnology for resource recovery shows increasing effectiveness especially downstream the production chains, i.e., in the waste management sector. Therefore, this critical discussion will help assessing the industrial potential of biotechnology for urban mining of municipal, post-combustion waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to realize a sustainable rubber compound made in large percentage of secondary raw materials. Waste chewing gum (WCG) has been studied as source of rubber and added in 25% by weight in an ethylene propylene diene monomer based compound in view of a circular economy and eco‐friendly rubber manufacturing. Biobased CaCO3 extracted from waste eggshells was used as extender agent and waste cooking oil from potato chips frying was employed as processing aid. The rubber extracted from WCG resulted to be polyisobutylene (PIB) whereas the main component of the WCG is polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). The addition of the WCG modifies the rheological properties of the rubber compound leading to a better filler–filler and filler–matrix interaction. On the other hand, the presence of both PVAc and PIB leads to lower mechanical properties (max torque 6 vs 10 dNm in curing test) but also higher elongation at break (600% vs 500%). The WCG also increases the self‐adhesion of the rubber and decreases the glass transition temperature allowing for the use of these compounds at lower temperatures thanks to its good tack behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presented article, an electrocoagulation method using a steel cathode and a steel anode was used to obtain chromium from laboratory-prepared model solutions with known compositions. The study aimed to analyze the effect of solution conductivity, pH, and 100% efficiency of chromium removal from the solution, as well as the highest possible Cr/Fe ratio in the final solid product throughout the process of electrocoagulation. Different concentrations of chromium (VI) (100, 1000, and 2500 mg/L) and different pH values (4.5, 6, and 8) were investigated. Various solution conductivities were provided by the addition of 1000, 2000, and 3000 mg/L of NaCl to the studied solutions. Chromium removal efficiency equal to 100% was achieved for all studied model solutions for different experiment times, depending on the selected current intensity. The final solid product contained up to 15% chromium in the form of mixed FeCr hydroxides obtained under optimal experimental conditions: pH = 6, I = 0.1 A, and c (NaCl) = 3000 mg/L. The experiment indicated the advisability of using a pulsed change of electrode polarity, which led to a reduction in the time of the electrocoagulation process. The results may help in the rapid adjustment of the conditions for further electrocoagulation experiments, and they can be used as the optimization experimental matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the results of experimental studies on the production of alternative solid fuels from coffee production waste -- coffee production waste and barley bran. Briquetted samples of solid fuels with 0 : 100, 25 : 75, 50 : 50 and 75 : 25 % wt. of coffee production waste and barley bran, respectively, were made. The influence of the content of the initial components on the main parameters of the created solid fuel briquettes was researched. It was determined that the higher calorific value of the obtained samples is in the range of ~17329 / 22147 kJ/kg, and their ash content is 0.6 / 2.45 % by weight. It is shown that with an increase in the content of coffee production waste in solid fuel samples, the calorific value increases and at the same time the ash content of the samples decreases. The creation of composite solid fuel briquettes makes it possible to use coffee production waste more rationally and regulate the main indicators of solid fuel to meet existing standards by means of the content of the components of the initial mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to the circular economy is a basic principle of the policy of the European Union, it is the chance for a cleaner world, an ideal world with "zero waste". This document analyzes the implementation degree of circular economy in Romania through 10 monitoring indicators defined by European Commission in "Measuring progress towards the circular economy in the European Union—Key indicators for a monitoring framework", released in January 2018. In order to understand the paper, it was considered necessary to define the indicators with reference to the targets proposed by the European Union. The analysis of the stage of implementation of the circular economy in Romania was made by using the data published by Eurostat. Methodologically, a comparative study was carried out between the level of implementation of circular economy indicators in Romania and the EU and the position occupied by Romania among the member states was identified for each of these 10 circular economy monitoring criteria. Each indicator is analyzed and the causes and motivations that led to the obtaining of the mentioned values are identified. The results of the study show that Romania is in the upper part of the hierarchy for certain indicators, contributing to the achievement of EU targets. It also identifies the causes that delay performance in others, indicating future solutions, necessary to be adopted to remedy the situation. Implementing the circular economy requires long-term vision, political determination and consistency, and, last but not least, funding. In these directions, governmental measures must be taken to increase performance at the national level. In conclusion with an economy that is not sufficiently strong, and affected as it is by the current crises, Romania is moving forward on the path of transitioning to a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last twenty years, the European Union (EU) has enhanced Waste Management (WM) strategies toward Circular Economy (CE). Starting from the previous analysis carried out by Fabrizi and Sospiro (Waste Management in Europe: A Comparative Study of the main EU countries: Methodology and Evaluation of Local Waste Management System, Lambert Publisher, Saarbücken, Germany, 2017), this article analyses firstly EU Member States (MSs) Roadmap toward Sustainable Waste Management (SWM) and secondly to CE. The research relied on Kirchherr et al. (Kirchherr in Ecological Economics 150:264–272, 2018) study which identified four barriers to CE (cultural, regulatory, market failure, and technological). The regulatory framework has been analysed. Four case studies (France, FR, Germany, DE, Italy, IT, the Netherlands, NL) have been selected to investigate: criteria, methodologies, policies, implementation and outcomes on SWM at national level. In addition, given MSs coordination at EU level the research aimed at analysing whether is there any convergence in terms of policies and achievements. The study considered recent findings on CE, Eurostat data, and Eurostat Circular Material Use (CMU) indicator. The analysis revealed SWM positive results, which seem to confirm a certain degree of convergence between EU-MSs that consists in a positive cascade mechanism from advanced toward less advanced MSs. In spite of this, EU countries need a further step in order to close materials' loops. Larger quantity of Secondary Raw Materials (SRMs) should return to manufacture, and this requires stronger intervention that goes beyond the waste sector. In light of this, the EU Commission recently entrusted the Joint Research Centre (JRC) to assess and compare the environmental impacts of alternative feedstock for plastic products. This reveals EU attempt to re-balance the intervention on CE, by striving new products' design approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The building industry consumes a large amount of primary raw materials and also contributes significantly to the production of waste. Applying circular principles in this field to reduce resource consumption and waste production has been investigated in several projects considering the reuse or recycling of construction and demolition waste. However, consumption of primary raw materials can also be reduced by re-targetting waste from different industries and municipal waste to produce new construction products. Thus, opportunities for the recycling of industrial and municipal waste were investigated in this project. The main output is the catalogue, which provides an overview of products with recycled content and secondary materials with the potential to be used in the construction industry such as blast furnace slag, ash, and energy by-products. Also, it contains a list of valid requirements for the use of recycled materials under specific conditions of the Czech Republic. In addition, examples of good practice are presented to break the existing behavioral barriers to the use of secondary raw materials in the Czech construction industry. This contribution summarizes the findings in the field of industrial and municipal waste recycling and its further use as secondary raw materials in the construction industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Geomechanik und Tunnelbau is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article describes the results of experimental studies of solid fuel production from coffee production waste, which by its nature is a mixture of coffee grounds, barley, and chicory. The formation of solid fuel briquetted samples was carried out by pressing under a pressure of 100 kgf/cm2 for 60 seconds at different temperatures. The higher calorific value of the obtained solid fuel samples and dried initial mixture of spent coffee grounds was determined. The higher calorific value of the briquetted samples is in the range of ~22147÷23095 kJ/kg, and that of the dried initial spent coffee grounds mixture is ~21583 kJ/kg. The prospective use of the studied raw materials in comparison with existing analogues is shown. The use of a mixture of coffee production waste for the production of solid fuel will solve the problem of excessive production of industrial waste, rationalize their secondary use and avoid the negative impact of their accumulation on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neodymium–iron–boron permanent magnets are increasingly used in green energy technologies, such as wind turbines and electric vehicles. In the near future, an increasing amount of magnets will reach their end-of-life stage, andtherefore, it is imperative to develop proper recycling routes aimed at the valorization of this waste fraction. In this work, a room temperature hydrometallurgical process was developed aimed at the recovery of both iron and rare earths contained in end-of-life wind turbine magnets. The process is based on a leaching step with nitric acid, followed by two precipitation steps and calcination. Iron hydroxide(III) and rare earth oxide with purity grade equal to 98% and 99%, respectively, were obtained. Based on these results, a process flowsheet was proposed for industrial implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage sludge management for fertilizer purposes can be a step in the circular phosphorus (P) economy. Using microbial solubilization in manufacturing fertilizers from recycled materials is an innovative approach with the potential to increase P compounds' bioavailability, and fertilizers from sewage sludge ash and P-solubilizing bacteria are promising products of this technology. In addition to P and a range of macronutrients, these fertilizers contain small amounts of micronutrients and potentially toxic elements. This paper discusses the effects of fertilizer on iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) content in soil, test plants (spring or winter wheat; grain and straw), weeds and post-harvest residues, based on field experiments. Treatments with conventional P fertilizers (superphosphate, phosphorite) and without P fertilization provided references. The tested biofertilizers containing the Bacillus megaterium or Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans strain had no effect on total Fe and Al content in the soil or on the concentration of these elements in plant biomass when applied at P doses up to 35.2 kg ha–1. Fe and Al levels in grain did not suggest a potential risk to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforced concrete based on ordinary Portland cement (OPC) is one of the most commonly used materials in modern buildings. Due to the global growth of the building industry, concrete components have been partially or completely replaced with waste materials that can be used as binders or aggregates. Besides the ecological aspects, modern architecture widely needs materials to make the concrete durable, resisting large loads and various detrimental forces in the environment. This opens the possibilities of managing waste materials and applying them in practice. This paper presents a concise review of the green solutions for ecofriendly materials in the building industry that deal with the practical application of materials commonly treated as waste. The main emphasis was placed on their influence on the properties of the building material, optimal composition of mixtures, and discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of each of the "green" additives. It turned out that some solutions are far from being ecofriendly materials, as they leech and release numerous harmful chemicals into the environment during their presence in concrete. Finally, the paper suggests a research direction for the development of an ecofriendly structural material for a sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling polymer waste is a great challenge in the context of the growing use of plastics. Given the non-renewability of fossil fuels, the task of processing plastic waste into liquid fuels seems to be a promising one. Thermocatalytic conversion is one of the methods that allows obtaining liquid products of the required hydrocarbon range. Clays and clay minerals can be distinguished among possible environmentally friendly, cheap, and common catalysts. The moderate acidity and the presence of both Lewis and Brønsted acid sites on the surface of clays favor heavier hydrocarbons in liquid products of reactions occurring in their pores. Liquids produced with the use of clays are often reported as being in the gasoline and diesel range. In this review, the comprehensive information on the thermocatalytic conversion of plastics over clays obtained during the last two decades was summarized. The main experimental parameters for catalytic conversion of plastics according to the articles' analysis, were the reaction temperature, the acidity of modified catalysts, and the catalyst-to-plastic ratio. The best clay catalysts observed were the following: bentonite/spent fluid cracking catalyst for high-density polyethylene (HDPE); acid-restructured montmorillonite for medium-density polyethylene (MDPE); neat kaolin powder for low-density polyethylene (LDPE); Ni/acid-washed bentonite clay for polypropylene (PP); neat kaolin for polystyrene (PS); Fe-restructured natural clay for a mixture of polyethylene, PP, PS, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The main problem in using natural clays and clay minerals as catalysts is their heterogeneous composition, which can vary even within the same deposit. The serpentine group is of interest in studying its catalytic properties as fairly common clay minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the experimental studies results of the use of barley brewer's spent grain (BSG) for the production of alternative solid fuels. A method of obtaining briquettes by pressing is described. The calorific values of the raw material and the obtained samples are defined. According to the research results, the highest calorific value of the dried brewer's spent grain is 20005 kJ/kg, and that of the created solid fuel samples - briquettes - is in the range from 20173 to 20298 kJ/kg. The residual moisture content of the dried brewer's spent grain was ~ 6.5 % wt., the ash content of the dried brewer's spent grain was in the range of 1.6 ÷ 2.3 % wt. The residual moisture content of the briquettes was in the range of 0.5 ÷ 1.5% wt., and the ash content was in the range of 1.5 ÷ 1.6 % wt. The obtained alternative solid fuel, which contains barley brewer's spent grain, has a high calorific value, does not contain harmful impuritiesor require additional cleaning or auxiliaries to form a solid form, provides additional disposal of industrial beer industry wastes, increases environmental friendliness by replacing traditional fuel resources with absence of large amounts of harmful emissions. Created samples do not require binders and precleaning before production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of valuable metals from different types of wastes has become of prime strategic interest given the scarcity of primary critical raw materials at international scale. Implementation of new methods or refinement of classical techniques with modern technological advances is, therefore, an active research field. Mine wastes are of special interest because their high metal concentrations make them environmentally harmful and economically profitable at the same time. In this study, we evaluated two different methods of Cu recovery from extremely acidic mine waters seeping from wastes and abandoned mines in SW Spain. Through a series of different batch experiments, we compared the method efficiency and crystallographic properties of elemental copper (Cu[0]) obtained by reduction of Cu2+ ions by (1) chemical reduction using ascorbic acid at different environmental conditions of pH (1.50–3.95), temperature (25–80 °C) and ascorbic acid concentration (10 mM to 0.1 M), and (2) classical cementation method with scrap iron at pH 1.50 and 25 °C. Our study demonstrates that the precipitation of Cu[0] can take place at pH 3.95 and low AA concentrations (0.1 M), resulting in large (µm-scale), perfectly developed crystals of copper with pseudoprismatic to acicular habit after 24 h of aging, likely through formation of a transient compound consisting in Cu2+-ascorbate and/or cuprite (Cu2O) nanocolloids. Reduction experiments at higher AA concentrations (0.1 M) showed faster precipitation kinetics and resulted in high-purity (>98%) copper suspensions formed by subrounded nanoparticles. The AA method, however, yielded very low recovery rates (15–25%) because of the low pH values considered. The cementation method, which produced tree-like aggregates formed by sub-micron crystals arranged in different directions, proved to be much more efficient (>98% recovery) and cost-effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elderly people frequently experience a decrease in body weight, associated primarily with a decrease in protein intake, for a variety of reasons, including social factors. In this regard, the consumption of liquid food rations enriched with watersoluble protein hydrolysates is the simplest solution to the problem of providing people with sufficient protein intake. Development of methods for the manufacture of fish and cereal-based products is promising due to the possibility to simulate the composition of a certain nutritional compound for functional consumption by various population groups. Our task was to substantiate the parameters and components for creating a product for gerodietic use. The development of the technology included the following stages: preparation of ingredients, such as cereal filler, by-products from herring cutting, natural food coloring, vegetable oil, table salt and water; their mixing; heat treatment; cooling and packaging. The finished product has a light orange color, characteristic of natural pollock roe, and a pleasant fishy smell; the "fish eggs" are easily separated from each other. New types of gerodietic products make it possible to increase the nutritional and biological value of the diet of the elderly, as well as to inhibit the development of age-related pathological changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents research results of the chemical composition, physical and chemical properties and biotechnological potential of dietary fiber concentrates (DFCs) obtained from secondary raw materials for the production of carrot and pumpkin juices. It has been established that DFCs, along with dietary fibers (cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, lignin), contain soluble sugars, nitrogenous substances and carotenoids, which determine their physiological activity and technological properties when used in dairy products fermented with probiotics. The effect of DFCs on the fermentation kinetics of dairy-vegetable mixtures with a starter containing lacto-, bifidobacteria and propionic acid microorganisms was studied. The optimal concentration and the degree of dispersion of carrot and pumpkin DFCs was determined. The findings can be used to ensureoptimal intensification of the fermentation process and the production of probiotic fermented milk drinks with a pleasant taste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the leaching of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide from the wastes of thermal power plants by concentrated nitric acid was investigated. A laboratory unit for the study of leaching processes was developed. It was found that the concentrations of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide in the solution increase with increasing the temperature of the leaching process by nitric acid. The influence of the ratio of reagents on the leaching of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide from ash and slag wastes was established. An increase in the leaching time in the range of 15-90 minutes positively affects the process of extraction of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide from ash and slag wastes. The calculated degree of extraction of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide from ash and slag wastes, as the main criterion for leaching processes, showed that an increase in leaching duration leads to a more complete transition of iron(II) and calcium into solutions. Based on the analysis of the obtained experimental data, the main technological parameters for the extraction of iron(II) oxide and calcium oxide from ash and slag wastes in nitric acid solution have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes preparation of an alternative solid fuel from corn alcohol distillery stillage, which is the waste of the alcohol industry. We determined the calorific values of the dried alcohol distillery stillage and experimental briquettes, which were made of it by pressing at high pressure and temperature. The average value of the higher calorific value of the dried alcohol distillery stillage is 19545 kJ kg-1, while this value for the produced briquettes is in the range of 22445 to 26594 kJ kg-1. The established calorific values exceed those of analogues, which are widely used for the producing of alternative solid fuels (miscanthus and energy willow). Solid fuel prepared from corn alcohol distillery stillage can be used both in a solid form and in a dried one. The proposed method for preparation of the solid fuel allows providing additional utilization of alcohol distillery stillage and rational use of secondary raw materials of alcohol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the results of experimental studies on kinetics of the filtration drying of corn distillery stillage, which has previously proven its effectiveness in drying other crops and various dispersed materials. The experimental data are presented in the form of graphical plots describing the change of material moisture over time depending on the temperature of the drying agent (60, 70, 80 and 90°C) and the layer height (40, 80, 120 and 160 mm). The obtained results are analyzed and the changes that occur on the filtration drying curves depending on the change in the material layer height and drying agent temperature are described. It is shown that the filtration drying time of alcohol distillery stillage increases with increasing the material layer height. It is determined that the drying potential remains constant at the same parameters of the drying agent. It is shown that the rate of moisture removal during the filtration drying does not depend on the material layer height. It is found that the average residual moisture of corn alcohol distillery stillage is 3.14±0.06 wt.%; this value satisfies industrial needs for an increase in its shelf life and the possibility of long-term storage and transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Chemistry & Technologies is the property of Oles Honchar Dnipro National University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of TECHNE: Journal of Technology for Architecture & Environment is the property of Firenze University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of TECHNE: Journal of Technology for Architecture & Environment is the property of Firenze University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article presents a schematic diagram of obtaining the components of technological and boiler fuels from polymer raw materials represented by materials from low and high pressure polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene. This scheme is based on the process of non-catalytic thermal destruction of raw materials in a batch reactor and consists of a section for preparation of raw materials, a section for thermal destruction as well as the fractionation of the resulting products. The given scheme on an industrial scale, depending on the properties of the raw material, makes it possible to obtain 10-20% (mass) of the fraction - 200°C, 30-50% (mass) of the 200-360°C fraction and 20-30% (mass.) fractions (> 360°C). Among the by-products, 3.0-5.0% (mass) light hydrocarbon gases (0.5-1.0 mass %) and the coke residue are formed. According to their properties, the obtained liquid products can be used as components for the production of process and a boiler fuel or as additives to improve the low-temperature properties of commercial fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]