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Abstract: Supercritical water gasification (SCWG) is a method by which biomass can be converted into a hydrogen-rich gas product. Wet industrial waste streams, which contain both organic and inorganic material, are well suited for treatment by SCWG. In this study, the gasification of two streams of biomass resulting from the pulp and paper industry, black liquor and paper sludge, has been investigated. The purpose is to convert these to useful products, both gaseous and solids, which can be used either in the papermaking process or in external applications. Simple compounds, such as glucose, have been fully gasified in SCWG, but gasification of more complex compounds, such as biomass and waste, have not reached as high conversions. The investigated paper sludge was not easily gasified. Improving gasification results with catalysts is an option and the use of alkali salts for this purpose was studied. The relationship between alkali concentration, temperature, and gasification yields was studied with the addition of KOH, K2CO3, NaOH and black liquor to the paper sludge. Addition of black liquor to the paper sludge resulted in similarly enhancing effects as when the alkali salts were added, which made it possible to raise the dry matter content and gasification yield without expensive additives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Power generation by variable renewable energy (VRE) is expected to expand for decarbonization, although it is difficult to ensure stabilization of the energy demand due to fluctuations in the power output from VRE. To accelerate VRE implementation, wind-powered thermal energy systems (WT th -ES), which can provide dispatchable power using wind–thermal energy converter (WEC th) and thermal energy storage (TES), have been proposed. In this study, we are tackling the installation of VRE, i.e., wind energy, by TES with WEC th compared with wind turbine (WT p) in paper mills to demonstrate the applicability of TES in an industrial sector. Conventional and alternative energy systems in paper mills with TES were mathematically modeled and simulated to analyze the transmittable power output and the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by life cycle assessment. With the installation of TES and wind energy, transmittable power could be increased with GHG emissions reduction. However, their excess installation or unbalanced combination resulted in an increase in GHG emissions and a decrease in transmittable power. By comparing the cases, the combination of paper mill, TES, and WEC th could convert thermal energy efficiently and mitigate fossil fuel consumption for multiple production of paper and power from the paper mill. • A wind-thermal energy converter (WEC th) and a wind turbine (WT p) were compared. • Energy flows and GHG emissions of paper mills with TES and wind were simulated. • Paper mills reduced GHG of power generation less than fossil fuel-fired power plants. • Excess TES reduces dispatchable power generation and increases GHG emissions. • Paper mills with WEC th s and TES have the potential to be regional energy suppliers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the charge storage ability of Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 nanosheet-carbon nanofoam paper (CNFP) composites prepared by electrodeposition for high areal capacity supercapacitor electrodes. The Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 film grew through instantaneous nucleation, uniformly covered CNFP, and displayed a porous morphology composed of a nanosheet percolation network. The electrochemical response of the Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 films was tuned by varying the Co to Ni ratios. The optimized Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 stoichiometry resulted in Ni 0.33 Co 0.67 (OH) 2 -CNFP electrodes displaying areal capacity/capacitance values of 1.52 C cm −2 /2.03 F cm −2 at 2.1 mA cm −2 , resulting from the contribution of the double layer capacity of CNFP with the redox capacity of Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 . A two electrode cell composed of CNFP as negative electrode and Ni x Co 1-x (OH) 2 -CNFP as positive electrode presented a high areal capacity value of 0.73 C cm −2 at 7.2 mA cm −2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daytime subambient radiative cooling is a most promising alternative to electricity-free building cooling. However, optical performance degradation arising from surface contamination and inevitable parasitic heat gain still pose unprecedented challenges to cool building at subambient temperatures. This paper proposed a superhydrophobic cellulose aerogel cooler (SHB-CAC) as building envelope by integrating self-cleaning capacity, passive daytime radiative cooling and thermal insulation to reduce environmental heat gain. The SHB-CAC demonstrates high solar reflectance (93%) and long-wave infrared emittance (91%), accomplishing a temperature drop of 8.5 °C lower than the ambient under sunlight of 800 W/m2 in the outdoor experiment. Notably, the SHB-CAC possesses low thermal conductivity (28 mW/(m∙K)) that suppresses parasitic heat gain from warmer surrounding and reduces cooling energy consumption. The self-cleaning property resulting from superhydrophobicity protects SHB-CAC from water wetting and dust contamination but also maintains its good surface radiation capacities under different humidity environment. A building energy simulation was conducted and results showed that 43.4% of cooling energy on average could be saved compared to the building baseline consumption, if SHB-CAC was widely used in China, indicating that the strategy of optical and thermal conductivity management of cooler has the potential to reduce the energy consumption of buildings. [Display omitted] • Waste paper is converted into aerogel cooler for building cooling. • High R solar and ε IR , thermal insulation, and self-clean are achieved in one design. • The aerogel achieves a high sub-ambient temperature drop of ∼8.5 °C on daytime. • The aerogel shows that 43.4% of cooling energy could be saved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper presents the improvement of energy management in a steam system used for corrugated board production. The system consists of a steam boiler (fired with natural gas), steam and condensate pipelines and a corrugated board production installation (steam consumer). In the existing system, the boiler works in unison with an open condensate tank. This tank is responsible for energy losses due to secondary steaming. Therefore, a system of a closed tank has been proposed to eliminate these energy losses. The coefficients of thermal performance and the energy losses in both cases (open and closed tank) are compared. The study shows that the losses of the closed steam system are always lower than those of the open system. The coefficient of performance could be increased by about 8% by the proposed modernization. The recovery of expenses for modernization should be very quick, taking place within a year. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To implement solar photocatalytic water detoxification in industrial processes, problems have to be identified. The effluents from paper mills contain non-biodegradable substances like polyphenolic polymer lignin. Photocatalysis is a suitable method to degrade this class of substances. Especially in good solar regions, like Brazil, solar radiation should be ideally used for that process. The German Aerospace Center and the Federal University of Uberlaˆndia-MG, Brazil are cooperating in a project funded by the German International Bureau of the Federal Ministry of Education and Science and CNPq, Brazil to implement solar photocatalysis in the treatment of paper mill effluents. Therefore, the following tasks are worked on: model compounds for the contaminants have been identified and compared to the real effluents. Different photocatalysts and oxidizing agents were tested to shape the degradation process for use in an industrial application. Tests were carried out in lamp reactors as well as in solar reactors to determine the influence of the reactor on the degradation. The kinetic of the degradation was also determined. The test results have shown that the non-biodegradable substances can be very effectively degraded by photocatalytic treatment. Especially in solar reactors like the CPC type reactor, degradation takes place very fast. Total mineralization of the contaminants can be reached. The paper describes the project as well as the test results and will provide an outlook to the implementation of solar photocatalytic detoxification technology in Brazil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The economic feasibility of producing ammonia through the gasification of three different feedstocks produced in pulp and paper mills is investigated in this paper. The first case uses black liquor, the main by-product of the kraft pulping process, as the feedstock, and in the other two cases pulp sludge (PS) and waste sludge (WS) are co-gasified with black liquor. For all three cases, a process model in which mass and energy balances were calculated was developed. The model results were used to estimate the equipment size and estimate costs. Techno-economic models were developed and ammonia production costs were calculated. A case study for Alberta, a western Canadian province, was conducted. The results indicated that for a 10% discount rate (or internal rate of return [IRR]), ammonia production in all three cases is cost competitive with current ammonia prices. The cost of production (COP) of ammonia for all three cases ranges from 743 to 748 $/t. Sensitivity and uncertainty analyses were conducted on the estimated COP, and the results show that the COP is the most sensitive to the capital cost, discount rate, electricity price and plant lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel MEA (membrane electrode assembly) structure of passive μ-DMFC (micro-direct methanol fuel cell) controls water management and decreases methanol crossover. The CNT (carbon nanotube) paper replacing CP (carbon paper) as GDL (gas diffusion paper) enhances water back diffusion which passively prevents flooding in the cathode and promotes low methanol crossover. Moreover, the unique structure of CNT paper can also enhance efficiency of oxygen mass transport and catalyst utilization. The passive μ-DMFC with CNT-MEA exhibits significantly higher performance than passive μ-DMFC with CP-MEA and can operate in high methanol concentration, showing the peak power density of 23.2 mW cm −2 . The energy efficiency and fuel utilization efficiency are obviously improved from 11.54% to 22.7% and 36.61%–49.34%, respectively, and the water transport coefficient is 0.47 which is lower than previously reported passive μ-DMFC with CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper evaluates system aspects of biorefineries based on biomass gasification integrated with pulp and paper production. As a case the Billerud Karlsborg mill is used. Two biomass gasification concepts are considered: BIGDME (biomass integrated gasification dimethyl ether production) and BIGCC (biomass integrated gasification combined cycle). The systems analysis is made with respect to economic performance, global CO2 emissions and primary energy use. As reference cases, BIGDME and BIGCC integrated with district heating are considered. Biomass gasification is shown to be potentially profitable for the mill. The results are highly dependent on assumed energy market parameters, particularly policy support. With strong policies promoting biofuels or renewable electricity, the calculated opportunity to invest in a gasification-based biorefinery exceeds investment cost estimates from the literature. When integrated with district heating the BIGDME case performs better than the BIGCC case, which shows high sensitivity to heat price and annual operating time. The BIGCC cases show potential to contribute to decreased global CO2 emissions and energy use, which the BIGDME cases do not, mainly due to high biomass demand. As biomass is a limited resource, increased biomass use due to investments in gasification plants will lead to increased use of fossil fuels elsewhere in the system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Implementation of absorption heat pumps (AHPs) in a Kraft pulping process was studied using a new methodology for the optimal integration of those devices in a process. Two generic opportunities were identified for an energy and water optimized mill: (i) integration of a double lift chiller in the bleaching chemical making plant to produce chilled and hot water simultaneously, using MP steam as the driving energy and, (ii) installation of a single stage heat pump to concentrate the black liquor and produce useful hot water by upgrading heat from the bleaching effluent and using MP steam as driving energy. The principles of AHPs operation and their efficient integration into a process are described. The simple payback time (SPB) and net present value (NPV) were used to evaluate the interest of such implementations. Considering 63 $/MWh for the steam price, SPB of 2.7 and 1.7 years have been estimated for the two cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic co-pyrolysis of biomass and plastics (HDPE (high density polyethylene), PP (polypropylene) and PET (polyethylene terephthalate)) has been performed in a fixed-bed reactor in presence of cobalt based alumina, ceria and ceria-alumina catalysts to analyze the product distribution and selectivity. Catalysts are synthesized using co-precipitation method and characterized by BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) surface area and XRD analysis. The effect of catalytic co-pyrolysis at different temperature with product distribution has been evaluated. The results have clearly shown the synergistic effect between biomass and plastics, the liquid products gradually increases forming with rise in the plastic content in the blend. Gaseous products have yielded most during pyrolysis of blend having biomass/plastics ratio of 5:1 with the presence of 40% Co/30% CeO 2 /30% Al 2 O 3 catalyst with hydrogen gas production touched its peak of 47 vol%. Catalytic performance enhanced with increase with the cobalt loading, with best performance attributing to 40% Co/30% CeO 2 /30% Al 2 O 3 catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic electrolyzers have been fabricated using graphite coated paper electrodes to electrolyze sea water into oxygen (O 2) and hydrogen (H 2) when integrated with a photovoltaic (PV) cell. The 'open' electrolyzer (OME) consists of a microchannel confined by a pair of graphite electrodes, which is drawn with the help of pencil tips. A sea water microdroplet has been dispensed at the junction of the electrodes while the PV cell is integrated to the electrodes to supply current. The microscale width of channel generates a high intensity electric field even at a lower potential, which facilitates the microdroplets to electrolyze into H 2 and O 2 near the cathode and anode. The rate of production of the gases increased with field intensity. In the 'close' electrolyzer (CME), the paper decorated with graphite electrodes is covered with a substrate embedded with polymeric microchannels. The microcapillaries are placed closer to the anode and cathode for in situ separation of H 2 and O 2. The economic, flexible, and metal-free micro-electrolyzer facilitates the water-splitting at a much lower applied voltage at an efficiency of 1–2%. Use of multiple separation channels in CME for production and separation of H 2 and O 2 shows the potential for micro-very-large-scale-integration (μ-VLSI). Paper based microfluidic reactor for production and separation of H 2 an O 2 gases. [Display omitted] • Development of a paper-based electrodes coated with graphite or RGO. • Electrolysis of sea water on the paper based microelectrolyzer. • Development of paper microelectrolyzer integrated with graphite/RGO electrode for electrolysis. • Integration of the solar panel to generate high intensity electric field for water splitting. • Synthesis and separation of hydrogen and oxygen in the OME and CME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new tar destruction technology has been developed by integrating in-situ catalytic gasification and a hot-gas cleaning system in the catalytic gasification of paper-reject sludge. Experimental results indicated that the tar yield in syngas decreased significantly from 13.64 to 10.76 g/m3, when increasing the zeolite addition during in-situ catalytic gasification. When the syngas passed through the hot-gas cleaning system, the tar concentration measured from downstream was approximately 0.22 g/m3. The hot-gas cleaning system used in this research seems to have played a significant role in reducing tar concentration of the syngas. The major tar speciation identified after hot-gas cleaning system was 1-ring or 2-ring hydrocarbons, which included benzene, toluene, xylene, styrene and naphthalene. In summary, the energy yield efficiency of syngas will be enhanced due to the tar reduction and transformation. The syngas seems to be appropriate to use as a fuel in gas engines for electricity generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In hot and dry climatic zones, direct evaporative cooling (DEC) system is used as an economical and efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning systems. The present paper concerns comprehensive experimental investigations and analysis of heat and mass transfer characteristics and thermal performance parameters of a bee-hive construction of corrugated-cellulose papers as a new cooling pad material. The performance parameters used to evaluate the effectiveness of the cooling pad materials are the outlet air temperature and relative humidity, pressure drop, humidifier effectiveness, rate of the evaporated water, sensible cooling capacity, specific cooling capacity (SCC), coefficient of performance (COP), specific water consumption (SWC), and Nusselt and Sherwood numbers. The cooling pad performance was investigated for a wide range of air and water temperatures and flow rates and pad thicknesses. The results show the enhancements of heat and mass transfer coefficients and the performance parameters with rising air temperature and water flow rate to humidifier. High values of the performance parameters (h c = 45 W/m2oC and h m = 0.23 m/s, ε h u m = 0.85 and COP = 170) are obtained compared to the traditional pad materials. Experimental correlations for the evaporative cooler performance parameters in terms of air and water temperatures and flow rates pad thicknesses are presented. • Cellulose paper, bee-hive structure has efficient thermal to be used as evaporator cooling pads. • Good thermal-hydraulic characteristics at a wide range of operating and design conditions are obtained. • Presented empirical correlations predict the performance parameters very well. • High values of the performance parameters of the proposed cooling pad were obtained. • The highest saturation efficiency is 84% with associated temperature and pressure drops 18 °C and 8 Pa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hydrogen produced from renewable biofuel is both clean and CO2 neutral. This paper evaluates energy and net CO2 emissions consequences of integration of hydrogen production from gasified black liquor in a chemical pulp mill. A model of hydrogen production from gasified black liquor was developed and integration possibilities with the pulp mill''s energy system were evaluated in order to maximize energy recovery. The potential hydrogen production is 59000 tonnes per year if integrated with the KAM reference market pulp mill producing 630000 Air dried tonnes (ADt) pulp/year. Changes of net CO2 emissions associated with modified mill electric power balance, biofuel import and end usage of the produced hydrogen are presented and compared with other uses of gasified black liquor such as electricity production and methanol production. Hydrogen production will result in the greatest reduction of net CO2 emissions and could reduce the Swedish CO2 emissions by 8% if implemented in all chemical market pulp mills. The associated increases of biofuel and electric power consumption are 5% and 1.7%, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study focuses on waste paper gasification in carbon dioxide atmosphere with molten alkali carbonates including potassium, sodium, lithium carbonate or their intermixtures as catalyst. The molten catalysts is capable of facilitating a desired reaction (C+CO2→2CO), which was hardly feasible even at a high temperature of 973K if catalyst absences. It is that the catalysts which provides a gas–liquid interface between carbon and carbon dioxide, replacing original gas–solid, then allows the two reactants contact each other effectively. Further experimental results demonstrate that the intermixture carbonates exhibit strongly enhancement on catalytic activity than any carbonate salts in the form of single. The reaction rate depends on temperature evaluating manners, a rapid heating processes is favorable to the aimed reaction. With respect to recycling of carbon dioxide, the process provides a conversion in 30%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

With the continuous increase in underground engineering depth, the risk of coal–rock dynamic disasters, such as rockburst, is becoming increasingly serious and complex threatening the safety of coal resources. To study the effect of horizontal stress on fractal characteristics of rockburst fragments in coal mining, this paper uses a digital drilling instrument to perform rockburst proneness tests on andesite and granite specimens with different horizontal stresses. Fractal theory is used to calculate the fractal dimension of the rockburst fragments for several combinations of parameters. The residual elastic energy index is combined with the fractal dimension of rockburst fragments to assess the propensity of rockbursts from macroscopic and microscopic perspectives. The experimental results show that the positive correlation between the fractal dimension and the A EF obtained under the two methods. The fractal dimensions of andesite and granite are 1.507–1.80 and 1.734–1.979, respectively. According to the rockburst proneness criterion, it is predicted that andesite and granite are all strong rockbursts under confining pressures of 20 MPa, 30 MPa and 50 MPa. Therefore, it is of some theoretical relevance to investigate the rockburst mechanism in terms of both the A EF and fractal dimensions of fragments under different unloading conditions. • Rockburst proneness is studied for rocks using digital drilling instrument with different horizontal stresses. • The residual elastic energy index is obtained from the drilling parameters to estimate rockburst proneness. • The residual elastic energy index is combined with the fractal dimension to assess the rockburst proneness. • The fractal dimensions of andesite and granite are 1.507–1.80 and 1.734–1.979, respectively. • The andesite and granite are all strong rockbursts under confining pressures of 20 MPa, 30 MPa and 50 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study analyzes the potential of an environmentally benign integration of a parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC) with a heat-intensive multi-effect evaporator (MEE) used in pulp and paper industry. Actual plant data was used to simulate the MEE and estimate the steam economy (SE) and steam consumption (SC), which are used to judge the performance of PTSC-MEE system. Four distinct alternatives for the integration are investigated with Self-adaptive Differential Evolution (SaDE) utilized for optimization. Initially, a normal PTSC with four different model configurations of MEE, basic or with energy reduction schemes (ERSs) are tested and found that SE is slightly increased for each. Next, a geometrically optimized/combinatorial optimized PTSC with basic MEE is examined, a rise of ∼3.4% in SE is noted for both, with current integration outperforming one out of three ERSs. Subsequently, geometrical plus combinatorial optimized PTSC with basic MEE is inspected, increase in SE reached 7.59% and two of the three ERSs outperformed. Economic analysis is conducted to estimate the steam saving with different PTSC-MEE systems and corresponding payback periods. The possibility of decarbonization with the various integration possibilities is also explored by evaluating the fuel savings and related CO 2 savings. • Integration of PTSC with an MEE used in pulp and paper industry is investigated. • The fusion of PTSC with MEE is studied with various possibilities. • Self-adaptive Differential Evolution (SaDE) is used for various optimizations. • The steam savings and payback times are estimated for various PTSC-MEE systems. • Decarbonization is studied by analyzing fuel savings and CO 2 reductions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are a number of sources of biomass-derived and fossil fuel-derived CO2 emissions from pulp and paper mills. The CO2 emissions from kraft mill lime kilns can be difficult to properly characterize because they contain a combination of fuel- and process-derived carbon of both fossil and biomass origin. In this paper, methods are presented for estimating biomass-derived and fossil fuel-derived emissions of CO2 from kraft mill lime kilns. It is shown that an accurate industry-wide estimate of greenhouse gas emissions from kraft mill lime kilns can be developed considering only the fossil fuel burned in these kilns. These emissions are estimated to be 1.3 million metric ton carbon equivalents (MMTCE) per year, or approximately 7% of direct emissions from the pulp and paper industry. Individual mills may need to consider more than just fossil fuel consumption in estimating greenhouse gas emissions due to a variety of site-specific factors, including the on-site manufacture of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) from lime kiln stack gases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract We herein report a simple and effective strategy to fabricate the bending-durable membrane-electrode assembly for bendable polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) by simply coating conventional carbon papers with manually fabricated silver nanowires (Ag NWs). Due to the high stretchability and flexibility of Ag NWs, we expect that the introduction of Ag NWs to carbon fibers would relieve the increase of ohmic and charge transfer resistances derived from the disconnections between each carbon fiber and the resulting decrease of electrical conductivity by repeatedly bending the bendable PEMFCs. We find that by using Ag NWs as an added component to carbon paper, the performance of Ag NWs-applied PEMFC can be maintained after repetitive bending. Carbon papers with the Ag NWs also show higher performance than the PEMFC without Ag NWs in the previous research. From the electrochemical impedance spectra of Ag NWs-coated PEMFC, it is clearly demonstrated that the coated Ag NWs effectively connect between carbon fibers and thereby play a role as a good buffer medium when carbon fibers are disconnected by mechanical bending. Highlights • Bending-durable polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell was realized. • Gas-diffusion layer was simply coated with percolated silver nanowires. • Fuel cell with silver nanowires showed high durability after repetitive bending. • Silver nanowires maintained electric connection between disconnected carbon fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A traditional system-level thermoelectric model requires enormous computing power and time for simulation analysis, especially when multiple optimization algorithms are combined. This paper initially proposed a comprehensive surrogate mode for the accurate modeling, field analysis, and fast optimization of thermoelectric generators. The surrogate model is made up of an artificial neural network (ANN) and a conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN), which can achieve a prediction accuracy of 97 % and a structural similarity (SSIM) of 0.954. Using a twisted tape annular thermoelectric generator (TT-ATEG) as an example, the generalization capability of the comprehensive surrogate model is demonstrated by studying the change of the twisted tape geometry parameters on the output performance and field distribution of the annular thermoelectric generator. The combination of the surrogate model and NSGA-II achieves fast optimization of key parameters under different working conditions, and the computational efficiency is improved by 99.97 %. Meanwhile, the cGAN part can predict the pressure and heat flow fields within 5s to provide intuitive visual feedback. The trained surrogate model requires less computer arithmetic power compared to the traditional multi-physics field simulation software. The successful application of the comprehensive surrogate model in this work provides a new solution idea and an optimization method for system-level TEG. • A comprehensive surrogate mode for performance prediction and optimization. • Surrogate Model Integrates ANN for Data-Based and cGAN for Image-Based Modeling. • Data-based performance computational efficiency improved by 99.97%. • Rapid physical field visualization provided within 5 seconds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Long term electricity consumption forecasting has been extensively investigated in recent years in different countries due to its economic and social importance. In this context, the long term electricity consumption projections of a country or region are highly relevant for decision-making of companies and organizations operating in any energy system. In this paper, it is proposed a methodology that combines the bottom-up approach with hierarchical linear models for long term electricity consumption forecasting of a particular industrial sector considering energy efficiency scenarios. In addition, the Bayesian inference is used for model parameter estimation and, enabling the inclusion of uncertainty in the forecasts produced by the model. The model was applied to the Brazilian pulp and paper industry and it was able to capture the trajectory of the real consumption observed during the 2008–2014 period. The model was also used to generate long term point and probability distribution forecasts for the period ranging from 2015 until 2050. Highlights • Bottom-up Bayesian extension for the long-term electricity consumption forecasting. • The proposed model combines the bottom-up approach with hierarchical linear models. • The proposed model considers energy efficiency scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to develop a novel method for the retrofit of Heat Exchanger Networks based on Bridge Retrofit analysis. The method identifies Retrofit Bridges that correspond to energy saving modifications using two new proposed tools: The Heat Surplus-Deficit Table and the Modified Energy Transfer Diagram. These tools both allow the identification and quantification of Retrofit Bridges. These tools have been developed following conventional Pinch Analysis tools such as the Composite Curve and Grand Composite Curve. The connection between the conventional Heat Exchanger Network synthesis tools and the proposed retrofit tools is established to improve understanding of the method and relate it to what is currently used in both literature and industry. The method is demonstrated with a simple illustrative example and a more detail paper mill case study. The paper mill incorporates a paper machine and paper recycling plant and is co-located with a Kraft pulp mill in New Zealand. Results from the retrofit method suggest a retrofit design that will achieve an annualised profit of NZD 570,000/y (USD 414,000/y) with a payback of 2.4 y. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the various design approaches available for the design of plate-fin heat exchangers for multi-fluid applications, are those based on the segmentation of the exchanger length into blocks that correspond to the enthalpy intervals in the Composite Curves. Such methods are characterized by three main features: identification of exchanger sections, surface selection from among the available types, and reconciliation of dimensions by pressure drop relaxation. The work presented in this paper introduces new concepts and removes some limitations in earlier approaches. In the first place, it reduces the number of block sections when the space between them is too short to fit intermediate headers along the length of the exchanger. Additionally, it introduces the concept of surface design as an aid to fulfil the heat transfer duties. Finally, it allows the design to meet fixed dimensions as design objective together with the heat duty within the limitations imposed by the pressure drop. The approach is demonstrated using a case study solved by different authors in the open literature. It is shown that the number of block sections is reduced from 3 to 2. • Extended design methodology for multi-stream heat exchangers. • Surface design to achieve a specific heat transfer performance. • Surface design to achieve a fixed pressure drop. • Design of heat exchangers to meet fixed dimensions. • Reduction of complexity through enthalpy interval merging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: India accounts for 4.5% of industrial energy use worldwide. This share is projected to increase as the economy expands rapidly. The level of industrial energy efficiency in India varies widely. Certain sectors, such as cement, are relatively efficient, while others, such as pulp and paper, are relatively inefficient. Future energy efficiency efforts should focus on direct reduced iron, pulp and paper and small-scale cement kilns because the potentials for improvement are important in both percentage and absolute terms. Under business as usual, industrial energy use is projected to rise faster than total final energy use. A strong focus on energy efficiency can reduce this growth, but CO2 emissions will still rise substantially. If more substantial CO2 emissions reductions are to be achieved then energy efficiency will need to be combined with measures that reduce the carbon intensity of the industrial fuel mix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Preventing the impact of natural disasters on urban-rural income inequality helps to achieve shared prosperity. This paper uses the functional entropy weight method to calculate the level of natural disasters from 2004 to 2020. Then, this paper discusses the impact of natural disasters on the urban-rural income gap. The empirical results are as follows. (1) Natural disasters have expanded the urban-rural income gap. The regression coefficient is 0.2663, which is significant at the 1% level. (2) In areas with a high proportion of the rural population, the impact of natural disasters is more prominent. (3) Mechanism analysis indicates that natural disasters have widened the urban-rural income gap by restraining rural investment and agricultural production. Finally, this paper suggests strengthening investment in the agricultural sector to mitigate the negative impact of natural disasters. • This paper uses the functional entropy weight method to calculate the level of natural disasters. • This paper quantitatively measures the impact of natural disasters on the urban-rural income gap. • This paper examines the mechanism of the impact of natural disasters on the urban-rural income gap. • This paper provides policy suggestions for narrowing the urban-rural income gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep Learning (DL) models, such as Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Units (GRU), have been widely used to predict the intermittency of wind power; however, the non-linear activation functions and backpropagation mechanisms in DL models increase computational complexity and energy consumption. This paper proposes a prediction model based on Green Learning (GL) to reduce energy consumption. The proposed GL model replaces the feature extraction of activation functions with a hybrid feature extraction approach combining categorical and numerical features. We also employ cluster centroids and quantile regression forest for classification/regression to eliminate the need for backpropagation in optimizing hyperparameters. Using Taiwan as a case study, this paper evaluates the risk of fluctuations in regional wind power generation in 2030. In simulations, the proposed GL model achieved excellent accuracy with energy consumption significantly lower than that of DL models. Our analysis also revealed that by 2030, fluctuations in wind power generation during the winter will exceed 40% of the peak supply capacity in the central region, indicating the need to enhance the resilience of regional power systems. • This is the first study to apply green learning to wind power prediction. • This study discriminated seasonal climate patterns at the regional level. • This study assessed the fluctuation risk under large-scale wind power integration. • The maximum hourly variability in wind power is projected to exceed 6,010 MWh by 2030. • We recommend the continued deployment of regional energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores Coastal Energy-Based Industrial Clusters (EBICs) and their role in advancing energy efficiency and sustainability through collaborative innovation. Economic growth theory and energy sustainability have been introduced into industrial clusters to illustrate indicators that have a greater impact on the development of EBICs. This paper proposes an EBICs development model based on the Cobb-Douglas function, in which accounts for various factors that drive the progress of such clusters. The outcomes of the economic model also provide insights into how the interaction of various factors affects the economic growth of EBICs and their eventual dominance in the energy market of coastal regions, dependent on gradually investing in areas such as research and development (R&D). Different development strategies demonstrate that the final development of a cluster has low dependence on the cluster's initial advantages. The study also illustrates how clusters can gradually monopolize the energy market, even with initial disadvantages. Through quantitative analysis, it showcases the transformation process of developing advantageous clusters into sub-clusters. Next, an energy symbiosis framework for coastal is proposed, which places greater emphasis on the multi-energy complementary system and reduces production costs. Finally, this paper also sheds light on shaping energy strategies for public authorities who shape economic policies at various levels of aggregation and in diverse dimensions. • Multi-energy complementarity provides a new path for sustainable development of coastal energy. • Hardware investment is critical to the development of energy-based industry clusters. • Clusters with better natural advantages may become sub-clusters due to incorrect development strategies. • The essence of energy cluster development is the result of the interaction of multiple influencing factors. • The economic growth of energy clusters depends on the proportion of investment in software and hardware. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The core of the energy transformation under the carbon-neutral vision is the gradual replacement of high-carbon energy by zero-carbon and low-carbon energy. However, the large-scale deployment of clean energy technology in turn relies on key minerals such as copper, aluminum, zinc, and nickel. Based on this, this paper conducts research on the demand for key minerals in clean energy transition and the role of key minerals in clean energy transition. In particular, this paper calculated the demand for mineral supply for China's carbon neutrality target, and the impact of some mineral resource constraints on the carbon neutrality path. Relevant results can provide a decision-making basis for the future development and utilization of key mineral resources, as well as the implementation of future carbon-neutral goals. • We evaluate the impact of crucial mineral resource on the carbon neutrality path. • Copper's availability greatly affects the adoption of new energy technologies. • Limited resources hinder early carbon capture and storage development. • Negative emission technologies are necessary for China's carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To accelerate the realization of the "carbon neutrality and carbon peaking" (dual carbon) goal, the "Opinions on Financial Support for Carbon Neutrality and Carbon Peaking" (the "Opinions") advocates the comprehensive adoption of tax incentives, government procurement and market-diversified investment measures to support the green low-carbon innovation transformation of key industries. Taking China's strategic new energy vehicle (NEV) industry from 2009 to 2021 as a sample, this paper empirically investigates the innovation effect of the measures in the "Opinions" on listed NEV enterprises. The results show that: (1) Both "supply-side" tax incentives and "demand-side" government procurement encourage NEV enterprises to innovate independently, jointly and efficiently, and the "supply-side" tax incentives have a stronger innovation effect. At the same time, compared with joint innovation, government policies are more conducive to independent innovation of NEV enterprise. (2) Market venture capital also encourages NEV enterprises to innovate. Government policy signals to the market can attract venture capital, and the "demand side" government procurement signal effect is stronger. (3) Tax incentives and venture capital, government procurement and venture capital have played an innovative synergistic effect on NEV enterprises. (4) There is an innovation failure in the combination of tax incentives and government procurement, but the innovation effect appears after the introduction of market venture capital. This paper not only supports the effectiveness of the innovative measures in the "Opinions", but also recognizes the continuation of the vehicle purchase tax exemption policy for NEVs. • "Opinions" measures encourage NEV to innovate independently, jointly and efficiently. • "Supply-side" tax incentives have a stronger innovation effect. • "Demand side" government procurement has a stronger signal effect. • Government policy and venture capital play an innovative synergistic effect. • There is an innovation failure in policy mix before venture capital intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scale of pig breeding in China is the largest in the world, and the pollution problem of breeding wastewater is serious. Supercritical water gasification (SCWG) process is a clean and efficient treatment technology for breeding wastewater. This paper involved constructing the molecular model of the primary organic components in pig breeding wastewater. The effects of time, temperature and mass concentration, and the interactions of different components on the SCWG characteristics of pig breeding wastewater were studied by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and the decomposition process of lignin and lipid molecules in the SCWG process were analyzed, and the possible intermediates were explored. The results showed that the effect of parameters on carbon gasification efficiency (CE) and H 2 production follows the order of temperature > time > mass concentration. During the gasification of lignin and lipid molecules, the C–O–C bond was broken first, and the gasification rate of lignin molecules was slow due to the benzene ring. Interactions among different organic decompositions hindered the gasification process. This paper will provide theoretical guidance for the selection of operation parameters and the control of products in the actual pig breeding wastewater treatment process. • The MD model of wastewater containing complex organics was established. • The effects of key parameters on SCWG of pig breeding wastewater were studied. • The detailed SCWG mechanisms of pig breeding wastewater were analyzed. • The intermediate products from SCWG of pig breeding wastewater were explored. • The interaction mechanisms of different organics during SCWG were analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, lignite-fired boilers often feature low thermal efficiency, difficult coal pulverizing and poor combustion stability owing to lignite having high water content. A novel lignite-fired power generation process is proposed in this paper with using a superheated-steam-drying open-pulverizing-system boiler (SSD-OPSB) and a deep utilization of waste heat from the steam for coal drying. Through using an open pulverizing system, the problems of low furnace temperature and low boiler efficiency are resolved. Meanwhile, the operation safety of the coal pulverizing system is ensured by using superheated steam as the drying agent. This paper described the working principle and engineering feasibility of the SSD-OPSB process, and established analysis model for its thermo-economic performance. Energy savings and environmental benefits of applying the process were calculated and discussed based on an in-service 600 MW supercritical power unit firing lignite with water content of 39.5% at its turbine heat acceptance condition. The result shows that for the power unit, applying the SSD-OPSB process can decrease coal consumption by 6.86% under the same power supply, meanwhile recovering water by 132.2 t/h and reducing CO 2 emission by 27.78 t/h. It indicates that the SSD-OPSB process would significantly benefit lignite-fired power plants regarding energy-saving and environmental protection. • Lignite-fired boilers can benefit greatly from applying open coal pulverizing systems. • The benefits include marked coal-savings, enhanced coal combustion and water recovery. • A novel superheated-steam-drying open-pulverizing-system was proposed for applications. • Waste heat and water recovery system was designed to the new power generation process. • The model of analyzing thermo-economic performance of this process has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper establishes a multi-objective optimization model for railway heavy-haul trains, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and improving transport efficiency. The model integrates optimization of the route and the vehicle load rate, significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing transport efficiency. It addresses the challenges and characteristics of heavy-haul trains, introducing multi-objective optimization problems related to transport carbon emissions and efficiency. Using a pigeon-inspired optimization algorithm, the model considers joint constraints between carbon emissions and transport efficiency objectives. To overcome challenges in multi-objective transportation problems, the paper proposes a forward-learning pigeon-inspired optimization algorithm based on a surrogate-assisted model. This approach calculates the quality of the candidate solution using a surrogate model, reducing time costs. The algorithm employs a forward-learning strategy to enhance learning from non-dominant solutions. Experimental validation with benchmark functions confirms the effectiveness of the model and offers optimized solutions. The proposed method reduces carbon emissions while maintaining transport efficiency, contributing innovative ideas for the development of sustainable heavy-duty trains. [Display omitted] • A model is build for carbon emissions reduction and transport efficiency enhancement. • The model combines route and load rate optimization. • The model achieves carbon emission reductions while improving transport efficiency. • A novel meta-heuristic algorithm for solving the railway heavy-haul trains model. • The proposed algorithm introduces fresh insights for railway heavy-haul trains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the performance of solar gas heaters that utilize an air gap between the glass cover and the absorber, along with radiating gas. By using a participating fluid as the working gas, thermal radiation can be absorbed, emitted, and scattered, enhancing the heat transfer between the absorber and the flowing gas. Free convection airflow inside the air gap adds to the forced convection airflow through the solar collector's duct. The study utilizes the κ-ε model and the discrete ordinate method for radiative intensity computation to analyze the flow and energy equations. Numerical results indicate a significant increase in thermal efficiency, particularly at lower gas mass flow rates, when employing radiating gases with high radiative absorption coefficients. The research shows about 40% improvement in thermal efficiency is obtained in test cases at a gas mass flow rate of 0.01 kg/s. A gas flow optical thickness of τ = 2 is found to be optimal among the investigated parameters. In addition, this paper demonstrates high efficiency of up to 70% for plane solar collectors without the need for configuration changes by using working gases with high radiative properties, such as pressurized CO2. • Effect of radiating gas on the performance of solar gas heaters (SGHs) is examined. • An air gap is embedded between the glass cover and the absorber. • The efficiency of SGH has increased 40% for low mass flow of 0.01 kg/s. • The optical thickness of τ = 2 for the gas flow gives the best performance. • A simple plane collector could have efficiency of 70% just by utilizing a working gas with high radiative properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate prediction of wind speed is significant importance in various applications such as renewable energy management, weather prediction, and aviation safety. However, more papers only focus on the time series of wind speed, ignoring the impact of other factors on wind speed, which will reduce the effectiveness of wind speed prediction. Therefore, an innovative methodology is suggested for both point and interval forecasts of multivariate wind speed time series using a Dual-layer Long Short-Term Memory (NVDL) in this paper. The proposed multivariate forecasting model takes into account the dependencies and correlations among different variables, which are essential for capturing the complex dynamics of wind speed variations. The first layer of the Dual-layer LSTM is responsible for capturing the temporal dependencies within each variable individually, while the second layer captures the interdependencies among the variables. By incorporating this dual-layer architecture, our model effectively captures the complex spatiotemporal patterns present for multivariate wind speed information. The results obtained from both interval and point prediction demonstrate that the proposed methodology outperforms all comparative models in the precision and stability of wind speed forecasting. Therefore, the proposed forecasting methodology, characterized by minimal prediction errors and exceptional generalization ability, can be a reliable tool for smart grid programming. • This article proposes an enhanced version of the dual-layer LSTM structure. • A self-adaption preprocessing to manage the impact of noise-induced interference. • Fuzzy interval forecasting can give the upper and lower of wind speed effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous surfaces are a common modified surface used to enhance boiling heat transfer. In this paper, a method for preparing gradient porous surfaces is presented, that is, magnetic stirring is added to the electrolyte and the cathode surface to be deposited is placed vertically downward. Within the Cl ion concentration range of 30–140 mg/L, increasing the Cl ion concentration results in lager pore sizes. When the Cl concentration was greater than 120 mg/L, the average pore size of the surface gradually increased from the center to the edge, and the number of pores gradually decreased from the center to the edge. All surfaces showed superhydrophilicity. The critical heat flux of Sample#3 is 158.72 W/cm2, which is 67% higher than the smooth surface. The wall superheat of Sample#3 was only 15 °C in the critical state. This porous surface has plenty of nucleation sites. These nucleation sites are gradually activated when the heat flux increases. At low heat fluxes, heat transfer on these porous surfaces presents a disadvantage because the nucleation sites are not fully activated. At high heat fluxes, these porous surfaces show a decrease in wall temperature. Consequently, the porous surface prepared in this paper has good boiling heat transfer at high heat flux. [Display omitted] • An inverted deposition method was designed to prepare gradient porous surfaces. • The gradient porous surface is superhydrophilic and provides a large number of nucleation sites. • An appropriate increase in Cl-ion concentration increases the pore size and pore wall thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion battery is a kind of energy storage devices with complex internal reaction and many factors affecting its performance. Accurate prediction of its SOH (State of Health) is of great significance to prolong its service life and improve safety performance. However, the current prediction for SOH has the difficulties of selecting health factors and using data-driven methods with opaque mechanisms. In this paper, a data-driven model will be established with the capacity change during aging of lithium-ion batteries as a health indicator to realize precise prediction of capacity degradation. Firstly, the feature parameters were extracted and analyzed from the battery cyclic aging test dataset. Two in-situ nondestructive characterization methods, incremental capacity analysis curve and differential thermal voltammetry curve, were utilized to resolve the evolution paths of the feature parameters. After that, a data-driven battery capacity degradation estimation is realized based on the GEP (Gene Expression Programming) algorithm, the performance is compared with the existing vehicle-end and cloud-end models, and a higher-accuracy SOH stacking model is developed with an increase of less than 1 ms in computational time. The results indicated that the GEP model proposed in this paper has obvious advantages in terms of physical explain-ability, computational efficiency and robustness. • Establishing a high-precision battery SOH estimation model based on the GEP algorithm. • The relationship between ICA and DTV curves with aging evolution laws is revealed. • Fusion of GEP model with existing vehicle-end and cloud-end models using stacking strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonising the heating sector is one of the key elements to realizing the ambitious dual carbon goals of China, which is the largest carbon emitter and energy consumer globally. Currently, district heating (DH) systems have penetrated approximately 88% of the urban heating areas in Northern China. Nevertheless, around 90% of the heating demand in China still relies on fossil fuels. A larger scale integration of renewable energy and waste heat sources into the DH systems is critical for decarbonising the entire heating sector in China. However, a deeper level of comprehension is required to harness its full potential. This paper provides a thorough investigation of the status, potential, and national policy schemes of renewable energy and waste heat recovery in the DH systems of China. Combined with a critical review of recent literature on relevant areas published in both international and Chinese domestic sources, the trends, challenges, and future perspectives are discussed from scientific research and practical implementation aspects. This paper highlights the synergy of the integration of renewable energy and waste heat sources in DH, the energy efficiency improvements as well as the use of thermal storage technologies through the implementation of 4th generation district heating and smart energy systems that could offer a more economically viable pathway forward. • Focus on renewable energy and waste heat (REWH) in the district heating (DH) systems in China. • A systematic review of REWH in Chinese DH systems from status, policy, and literature aspects. • Identification of research gaps based on the review of both international and Chinese journals. • Policy recommendations proposed to promote REWH in Chinese DH systems. • The introduction of international experiences on REWH in DH for analysis in the Chinese context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital infrastructure serves as a crucial foundation for development in the era of the digital economy. In light of this, this paper takes digital infrastructure construction as its focal point. Utilizing Python technology and the Meta-frontier non-radial directional distance function to calculate the level of digital infrastructure construction and industrial energy efficiency. It then employs a dynamic panel data model to analyze the impact effects and mechanisms of digital infrastructure construction on industrial energy efficiency. Additionally, threshold models and modified gravity models are employed to explore the nonlinear effects and spatial impacts of digital infrastructure construction on industrial energy efficiency. The research findings reveal that the enhancement of digital infrastructure significantly improves industrial energy efficiency. Moreover, indicate a shift in the impact of digital infrastructure construction on industrial energy efficiency from inhibitory to promotional as the level of digital infrastructure construction increases. The mechanism of this effect suggests that digital infrastructure construction can promote the improvement of industrial energy efficiency through green technological innovation and the advancement of industrial structure. Further analysis shows that the spatial network characteristics of digital infrastructure construction notably elevate the level of industrial energy utilization efficiency. This study provides practical policy implications for sustainable development. • Digital infrastructure construction markedly enhances industrial energy efficiency. • There is a non-linear picture of the impact of digital infrastructure construction on industrial energy efficiency. • The effects of green technology innovation and advanced industrial structure are crucial channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floating offshore wind turbines, as large equipment for deep-sea wind energy utilization, must be carefully studied for their aerodynamic performances under platform motions. In experiments, the model wind turbine designed by the traditional thrust coefficient similarity is usually insufficient for unsteady aerodynamic reproductions of the prototype wind turbine. In this paper, a dynamic aerodynamic similarity criterion based on the mapping of the optimal tip speed ratio is introduced for wind tunnel model tests, and a model wind turbine is designed using the NREL 5-MW prototype wind turbine. In this case, to avoid the over-height model tower aroused in pitch motions, a method of equivalent surge motions instead of pitch motions is proposed and validated for feasibility. Then dynamic aerodynamic similarities under different pitch amplitudes and frequencies are validated by the Unsteady Blade Element Momentum theory. Results indicate that temporal and spatial characteristics and hysteresis effects of thrust and power coefficients all maintain better similarity with those of the prototype wind turbine than those of the model wind turbine designed by the traditional criterion. This paper provides a criterion with equivalent pitch motions for unsteady aerodynamic studies in wind tunnel model tests, especially the high-fidelity Hardware/Software-In-the-Loop test. • A new similarity criterion is proposed for FOWT wind tunnel model tests. • The feasibility of equivalent surge motions instead of pitch motions is verified. • The problem of over-height model tower is avoided by equivalent pitch motions. • Spatiotemporal and hysteresis characteristics of unsteady aerodynamics are analyzed. • Unsteady aerodynamic performances of the prototype can be reflected more accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To attain China's target of carbon neutrality by 2060, the implementation of the Energy Consumption Trading (ECT) system serves as an effective approach to improve energy efficiency and mitigate CO 2 emissions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to consider not only the importance of carbon reduction effect caused by ECT system but also the associated cost. Therefore, this paper applies the spatial difference-in-differences (SDID) model to assess the direct and spillover impacts of the ECT policy on the carbon abatement cost, which is measured by shadow price of CO 2 emissions and calculated using SBM-DEA model. Panel data encompassing 279 Chinese cities from 2010 to 2019 are employed for analysis, with additional insights provided through heterogeneity and mechanism analyses. The results show that ECT policy increases the local carbon abatement cost in pilot cities but decreases the cost of surrounding cities. Meanwhile, such a declination effect in neighboring cities with a spatial attenuation boundary of 1000 km. The heterogeneity analysis suggests that the implementation of ECT policy leads to an increase in the carbon abatement cost in cities located in non-Eastern Coastal regions, cities with abundant natural resources and cities with small populations. The mechanism analysis indicates that the ECT policy implementation facilitates the improvement of green technology in the neighboring cities of the pilot project, consequently lowering the carbon abatement cost. Besides, this policy also results in a decrease in the carbon intensity of the pilot cities. Owing to the U-shaped association between carbon intensity and the carbon abatement cost, the policy implementation stimulates an increase in the cost within the pilot cities. • This paper estimates the carbon abatement cost (MAC) using SBM-DEA method. • The SDID model is used to investigate the impacts of ECT policy on carbon MAC. • We test whether green technology and carbon intensity are mediating variables. • ECT policy increases the carbon MAC in pilot cities through carbon intensity. • ECT policy lowers the carbon MAC of adjacent cities through the green technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk associated with the dramatic volatility of oil prices has become an important factor affecting the stability of the financial system. Through a complex network viewpoint, this study uses firm-level data to investigate systemic financial risk contagion from the oil market to the financial markets. Our study considers the risk amplification effect in financial network and provides an in-depth empirical analysis of risk contagion among financial institutions under the oil market risk shock. According to the findings of this paper, systemic financial risk increases dramatically during oil crisis events. This paper also captures important characteristics of the network, including major risk receivers and risk transmitters, and finds that banks suffer more risk losses from the oil market. Furthermore, considering the important role of the financial system in the macro economy, the systemic financial risk caused by oil market risk has long-term negative effects on economic output. • This study examines the risk contagion from oil market to financial markets from complex network perspective. • This paper suggests that systemic financial risk rises significantly during oil crisis events. • This paper finds that banks suffer more risk losses from the oil market risk. • Systemic financial risk caused by oil market risk has long-term negative effects on economic output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon neutrality agenda requires that carbon lock-in enters an endgame. A well-developed energy system, which is secure, equitable, and sustainable is paramount to getting rid of carbon lock-in and realizing decarbonization. We carry out systematic research to empirically study the possible carbon lock-in reduction effect of energy trilemma based on the instrumental variable-generalized method of moment (IV-GMM) model. We also detect heterogeneous effects in terms of geographical locations and endowments of capital, as well as the impact mechanisms. Moreover, this paper highlights the mediating and threshold role of environmental regulation. We thus get the following conclusions. (1) The paper's primary findings underscore that the continuous increase of energy trilemma exacerbates carbon lock-in and hampers the process of decarbonization; (2) Energy trilemma has a higher stimulating effect on carbon lock-in in provinces that lie in the central region and that have a comparatively low level of physical, social, and human capital; (3) Energy trilemma can also indirectly aggravate carbon lock-in by inhibiting technology innovation and exacerbating carbon emissions intensity; (4) The interaction of environmental regulation and energy trilemma can alleviate the energy trilemma - carbon lock-in nexus, and environmental regulation also shows a significant threshold effect. • We investigate the impact of the energy trilemma on carbon lock-in. • Energy trilemma eradication is an effective way to realize the carbon lock-in endgame. • The nexus between energy trilemma and carbon lock-in is more prominent in provinces with high capital endowments. • Environmental regulation shows significant mediating and threshold effects. • The exacerbate carbon lock-in effect of energy trilemma depends on technology and intensity effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve an efficient tidal current turbine (TCT), the impact of three biomimetic trailing edge designs (i.e., slabbing, slab-toothed, and serrated), a blade configuration design (i.e., sweep design) and their various combinations on TCT's power coefficient are numerically and experimentally studied in this paper. The novelty of this paper lies in its pioneering exploration of the synergistic effects of multiple biomimetic designs on the TCT's power generation and start-up performance, as well as the interplays between the sweep design and biomimetic trailing edge designs. Both numerical simulations and experimental studies provide compelling evidence that all three biomimetic trailing edge designs enhance the blade's energy capture efficiency. For example, at a 7° angle of attack, the lift-to-drag ratio for the slabbing trailing edge blade increases by 12.124% and the slab-toothed trailing edge blade increases by 11.770% compared to the standard blade. The incorporation of sweep design and biomimetic trailing edge design produces a further enhancement in both the TCT's power generation and startup performance. In particular, the simultaneous implementation of slabbed trailing edge design and sweep design makes the power generation efficiency of TCT increase by up to 54.72% when compared to TCTs using standard straight blades. • Paper explores synergic effects of multi-biomimetic designs on TCT's efficiency. • Slabbing and slab-tooted tailing edge designs surpass serrated trailing edge design. • Combined use of sweep and slabbing trailing edge design results in best performance. • All biomimetic designs considered in the study boost the TCT's startup performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a promising energy carrier, but safety concerns must be addressed to ensure its widespread use. Aiming at the problem of hydrogen leakage and diffusion in a hydrogen workshop (HWS), a hydrogen diffusion model in the actual temperature stratified environment is established. The law of hydrogen diffusion evolution in this environment is analyzed by simulation and compared with the numerical model. It is revealed that leaked hydrogen in temperature stratified environment will be trapped at a certain height and spread horizontally, which is called the "locking phenomenon". This paper explores the conditions under which this phenomenon occurs by comparing hydrogen diffusion under different temperature gradients and leakage rates. To reduce the risk of "locking phenomenon", the vents were configured for the HWS vents. The results show that the hazard area of hydrogen diffusion is reduced by 41.10% after the vent configuration. This paper provides valuable insights into the evolution of hydrogen diffusion in a temperature stratified environment and proposes an effective solution to mitigate the associated risks. • A hydrogen diffusion model in temperature stratification is established. • The locking height and trajectory of hydrogen are studied. • The necessary conditions for the occurrence of "locking phenomenon" are given. • The deployed vent effectively reduces the hazard area after hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a dual-objective eco-routing strategy aimed at optimizing driving routes by minimizing both energy consumption and travel time. First, the vehicle and powertrain dynamics are modelled. The energy consumption of three powertrain types, including hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), battery electric vehicle (BEV) and conventional vehicle with internal combustion engine (CV), are calculated based on a white-box model. Second, this paper models the traffic network by considering the intensity of each road. The energy consumption associated with different intensity levels is also modelled using a typical driving cycle. The dual-objective routing problem, considering both energy consumption and travel time, is solved by an Iterative Dijkstra's algorithm. Finally, several simulation results demonstrate that the proposed dual-objective eco-routing strategy achieves a favorable balance between energy consumption and travel time. Specifically, for HEV, the dual-objective eco-routing strategy resulted in a 5.3% reduction in travel time with a marginal increase of only 0.4% in fuel consumption compared to the single-objective eco-route. In addition, the eco-routing strategy exhibits distinct patterns across different vehicle powertrains. HEV and BEV tend to utilize heavy traffic conditions more frequently compared to the CV. • Build the energy consumption models of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), battery electric vehicle (BEV) and conventional vehicle with internal combustion engine (CV). • Energy consumption associated with different intensity levels is modelled. • Formulate the dual-objective routing problem, considering both energy consumption and travel time. • Eco-routing strategy exhibits distinct patterns across different vehicle powertrains and traffic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The erosion problem of semi-open centrifugal pump serving in silt-carrying fluids is serious, and the interaction between the particle migration and vortex evolution aggravates the complexity of erosion on the flow components. In the present paper, the liquid-solid two-phase flow of semi-open centrifugal pump under different particle sizes is simulated based on the four-way coupling Euler-Lagrangian method, in which the fluid-particle interaction and particle-particle interaction are taken into account. In particular, the influence of particle size on the structure characteristics of leakage vortex and erosion characteristics are investigated, and the interrelationship among vortex structure, particle migration and surface erosion behavior is revealed. The results show that the erosion area is mainly distributed in the blade leading edge, the pressure surface leading edge and the hub. When the particle size is 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, due to the good following characteristic of particles and the inhibition effect on tip leakage vortex (TLV), the particles are easy to impact the trailing edge of blade suction surface and the hub, which induce severe erosion. As the particle size decreases, the number of particles flowing into the tip clearance increases. Therefore, the frequent impact of particles on the TLV leads to the breakup, separation and fusion of the vortex, which aggravates the flow instability. This paper provides a new insight into the hydraulic performance and erosion characteristics of semi-open centrifugal pump in terms of particle-vortex interaction. [Display omitted] • The evolution of leakage vortex structure with particle size is revealed. • The interaction between leakage vortex and particle trajectories is analyzed. • The blade pressure and blade load fluctuation changes greatly by adding particles. • The effect of particle-vortex interaction on erosion behavior is revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell voltage inconsistency in a battery pack is an important signal released by the deterioration of battery performance. In this paper, voltage inconsistency is categorized into static inconsistency and dynamic inconsistency, and the latter contains progressive fluctuation fault and sudden fluctuation fault. For voltage dynamic inconsistency, this paper innovatively proposes a fault diagnosis and type identification method based on weighted Euclidean distance evaluation and statistical analysis. Specifically, firstly, the Euclidean distance evaluation method is used to quantify the cumulative length of the voltage curve of each individual cell in the time window, and at the same time, different forgetting factors are weighted on the voltage line segments to mitigate the fault diagnostic delay and memory effect defects of the time window. Then, a voltage abnormality evaluation coefficient is introduced to characterize the degree of inconsistent fluctuation of the cell voltage, and statistical methods are used to find a reasonable threshold. Further, fault type identification algorithm layer is conducted to identify the type of cell voltage fluctuation by using the optimized correlation coefficient method while the cell is detected by the fault diagnosis algorithm layer. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed fault diagnosis strategy is verified by experimental data, and an online platform is utilized to obtain voltage data with different fault characteristics to test the practical application of the method. By comparing the proposed method with various data-driven methods with the same data evaluation significance, the results show that the method in this paper is more robust to static voltage inconsistency and the length of the time window, and is capable to recognize the various data patterns of potential threats, with higher accuracy and computational efficiency. • Euclidean distance evaluation is used for cell voltage inconsistency fault diagnosis. • Forgetting factor is used to mitigate fault diagnosis delay and memory effect defects of time window. • Optimized correlation coefficient is used to isolate pattern of cell voltage inconsistent fluctuations. • The accuracy is more than 99%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the integration of high proportion of distributed photovoltaic(PV), high-accuracy regional PV power forecasting technology can enhance the regional coordinated scheduling capability of the new power system. This paper proposes a regional PV power forecasting model based on an improved time-series dense encoder and graph attention network (ITDE-GAT), which takes into account the spatio-temporal correlations among the regional PV plants. Firstly, an improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise(ICEEMDAN) is used to extract the clear-sky and fluctuation components from PV data. Secondly, the combined ITDE-GAT is applied to perform the regional PV power forecasting. Considering the static information, an improved dense encoder network (ITDE) is constructed to extract the temporal and spatial relationships of regional PV. Graph attention network (GAT) is then utilized to explore the spatial correlations among the regional PV. Finally, case study from two actual PV region datasets shows that the proposed model achieves higher forecasting accuracy and exhibits stronger generalization capabilities. The results demonstrate that compared to various advanced deep learning methods, the R2 evaluation metric of the approach proposed in this paper demonstrates, respectively, maximum improvements of 3.4 %, 6.5 %, and 7.8 % for the 1 h, 3 h, and 6 h ahead predictions. ICEEMDAN decomposition results can be interpreted efficiently. Graph attention networks can explore the spatial characteristics between PV plants. The ITDE model based on MLP can effectively improve the accuracy of PV multi-step prediction. The ITDE-GAT model has higher accuracy and stronger generalization ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]