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Paper-based microfluidic devices offer advantages such as low cost and disposability for point-of-care diagnostic applications. However, actuation of fluids on paper can be a challenge in multi-step and complex assays. In this work, a thermally programmable time-delay switch (TPTDS) is presented which operates by causing delays in the fluid path of a microfluidics paper-based analytical device (μPAD) by utilizing screen-printed wax micro-bridges. The time-delay is achieved through an electrical power feedback loop which indirectly adjusts the temperature of each individual micro-bridge, melting the wax into the paper. The melted wax manipulates the fluid flow depending on its penetration depth into the paper channel, which is a function of the applied temperature. To demonstrate functionality of the proposed method, the TPTDS is employed to automate and perform the nitrate assay which requires sequential delivery of reagents. Colorimetric detection is used to quantify the results by utilizing an electronic color sensor. [Display omitted] • Fluid actuation can be a challenge in paper-based microfluidics, limitting its applicability in multi-step assays. • Wax-based micro-bridges placed across paper channels can manipulate fluid motion when melted. • Control over the wax penetration is achieved by an electrical power feedback loop, adjusts the temperature. • Time-delay switches are thermally programmed to automate a nitrate test, requires sequential delivery of the reagents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Various carbon nanotube-based devices are developed for solar energy utilization. • The water evaporation system can generate freshwater (1.28 kg m−2h−1). • The solar-thermoelectric system can output a voltage and charge a cellphone. • The supercapacitor performs an areal specific capacitance of 19.6 mF cm−2. • The hybrid energy system can produce freshwater, generate and store electric power. Nowadays, multi-functional systems driven by solar energy have been explored to alleviate the crisis of energy and freshwater scarcity. However, it remains a great challenge to integrate multi-functions into one hybrid system with a monolithic material, which can harvest, convert and store solar energy synergistically. Here, we firstly propose a multi-functional carbon nanotube paper, which starts from a material level to solve these problems. The carbon nanotube paper is fabricated by vacuum filtration. It exhibits high efficiency of solar-thermal conversion. Secondly, three types of energy conversion/storage systems (e.g., solar-thermal evaporation system, solar-thermoelectric generation system, and supercapacitor) are constructed based on the carbon nanotube paper, which extend the research to a device level. The solar-thermal evaporation system shows an evaporation rate of 1.28 kg m-2h−1 under simulated sunlight irradiation of 1 kW m−2. The solar-thermoelectric generation system demonstrates a stable electric power generation with an output voltage of 100 mV under light irradiation of 1 kW m−2. The supercapacitors perform the energy storage function with an areal specific capacitance of 19.6 mF cm−2. These devices and systems can be used in freshwater generation (0.84 kg m-2h−1, sunlight irradiation of 1 kW m−2), water purification/desalination (inorganic ions rejection larger than 99.9%) and portable solar charging system (maximum output voltage of 5 V). Finally, a hybrid energy system is innovatively proposed from the system level to simultaneously produce freshwater, generate and store electric power. Through the synergetic coupling of solar conversion and storage technologies, the hybrid energy system can supply sustainable freshwater and electricity for remote areas in daily life, highlighting the superiority of multi-energy (thermal energy, electrical energy, and electrochemical energy) complementary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the reliability and power quality at Champion International Corp. paper mill in Deferiet, New York. Numerous process interruptions experienced by Champion; Voltage sags emanating from the Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. transmission system; Causes and location of faults; Mitigation techniques.

The papers address the following key areas: ' B I Applications of IoT and digital twin in electrical power systems: A comprehensive survey i b ': This research paper reviews the applications of the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital twin technology in electrical power systems. With the growth of Internet of Things (IoT) techniques, applications have become smarter, and linked gadgets allow them to be used in many parts of power systems. ' B I A new low-cost and low-power industrial Internet of Things infrastructure for effective integration of distributed and isolated systems with smart grids i b ': This research paper provides an Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure solution based on a newly designed low-cost microcontroller-based IoT remote terminal unit (RTU) to integrate new, old, and conventional sites of existing grids with smart grids. [Extracted from the article]

Highlights: [•] Effect of [DBDS], time, air and paper-Cu proximity on Cu x S deposition was studied. [•] XPS and EDX revealed deposition of Cu x S in paper increased with time or [DBDS]. [•] O2 was observed to have a key role in Cu x S displacement from the conductor surface. [•] A bifurcated pathway for Cu x S deposition in oil-immersed equipment is proposed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

More than 50% of the electrical power needed to treat pulp and paper industry effluents is used for aeration in biological treatment stages. A large share of the oxygen that passes through the wastewater is not consumed and will be found in the off-gas. Energy can be saved by aerating under conditions where the oxygen transfer is most efficient, for example at low concentrations of dissolved oxygen Consider the sludge as an energy source; electricity can be saved by avoiding sludge reduction through prolonged aeration. High oxygen transfer efficiency can be retained by using the oxygen consumption of biosolids. Quantified savings in the form of needed volumes of air while still achieving sufficient COD reduction are presented. The tests have been made in a bubble column with pulp mill process water and sludge from a biological treatment plant. These were supplemented with case studies at three pulp and paper mills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the role of power electronic converters in smart grids and electric vehicle applications. The authors highlight the technical connection between renewable energy, smart grids, energy storage, and electric vehicles. The special issue includes twelve accepted papers that cover topics such as high gain DC-DC converters, power converters for electric vehicle and motor drive applications, and power system applications. The papers present various novel topologies and control techniques, indicating the rapid growth and future potential of power converters in these fields. The authors express their appreciation to the contributing authors and anonymous reviewers for their valuable contributions to this special issue. [Extracted from the article]

For the oil-impregnated power transformers in service, the condition of the main insulation system is very important. This article reports a non-destructive evaluation technique based on time-frequency domain dielectric characteristics. First, the polarization/depolarization current and frequency-domain spectroscopy were well measured under controlled laboratory conditions. Then, the recovery voltage curves and recovery voltage polarization spectroscopy were also obtained by using the conversion method between polarization/depolarization current and recovery voltage based on the extended Debye model. After that, the time-domain dielectric characteristics, which can represent oil-paper insulation aging, were extracted from the polarization/depolarization current curves, recovery voltage curves and recovery voltage polarization spectroscopy. In addition, the frequency-domain dielectric characteristics, which can represent the oil-paper insulation aging, were also proposed in terms of frequency domain spectroscopy. Finally, the change rules of time-frequency domain dielectric characteristics under different aging times were investigated in depth. Results show that the time-frequency domain dielectric characteristics are sensitive to the aging states of power transformers, which could be utilized to diagnose the aging state of oil-paper insulation in field power transformers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Since power transformers are valuable components of power networks, reliable determination of the remaining lifetime of a transformer is very important for power utilities. Power transformers consist of oil, a core, wire, and paper (cellulose), and their performance and remaining useful lifetime depend on the state of the oil-impregnated paper. Changing the oil over the lifetime of a transformer is possible, but it is not possible to change the insulation paper. Thus, the end of the paper lifetime will also be the end of the transformer lifetime (typically more than 40 years). The health condition of an in-service power transformer can be assessed by chemical and electrical tests of the oil and the paper [1]. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Science and technology, with their miraculous advancements, have fascinated human life to such an extent that imagining a world without these innovations is hardly possible. While technology is on the rise, an increase in immoral activities should also be noted. From a technical perspective, "power theft" is a non-ignorable crime that is highly prevalent and directly affects the economy of a nation. Today's life is unimaginable without electricity, almost all things, equipment, and appliances used daily rely on electric power to run smoothly. Solar energy is an alternative but has limitations, such as environmental changes and high initial costs. From rural to urban areas and from domestic to industrial sectors, the use of electricity has increased, but so has power theft. Detecting and eradicating such crimes with the help of the developing scientific field is the "need of the hour." With these views, the paper was conceived and designed. The paper provides a complete and comprehensive tool to stop power theft, which is extremely simple to understand and easy to implement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batteries have been integral components in modern vehicles, initially powering starter motors and ensuring stable electrical conditions in various vehicle systems and later in energy sources of drive electric motors. Over time, their significance has grown exponentially with the advent of features such as "Start & Stop" systems, micro hybridization, and kinetic energy regeneration. This trend culminated in the emergence of hybrid and electric vehicles, where batteries are the energy source of the electric traction motors. The evolution of storage for vehicles has been driven by the need for larger autonomy, a higher number of cycles, lower self-discharge rates, enhanced performance in extreme temperatures, and greater electrical power extraction capacity. As these technologies have advanced, so have they the methods for their disposal, recovery, and recycling. However, one critical aspect often overlooked is the potential for battery reuse once they reach the end of their useful life. For each battery technology, specific regeneration methods have been developed, aiming to restore the battery to its initial performance state or something very close to it. This focus on regeneration holds significant economic implications, particularly for vehicles where batteries represent a substantial share of the overall cost, such as hybrid and electric vehicles. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of battery technologies employed in vehicles from their inception to the present day. Special attention is given to identifying common failures within these technologies. Additionally, the scientific literature and existing patents addressing regeneration methods are explored, shedding light on the promising avenues for extending the life and performance of automotive batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the not-too-distant future, humans will return to the Moon and step foot for the first time on Mars. Eventually, humanity will colonize these celestial bodies, where living and working will be commonplace. Energy is fundamental to all life. The energy that people use to sustain themselves on Earth, and in particular on these other worlds, is the integrated, safe production of electrical power, day and night. This paper proposes a radically new solution to this problem: Solar Tracking by day and a Solar Rechargeable Calcium Oxide Chemical Thermoelectric Reactor by night. Called the "Robotic End Effector for Lunar and Martian Geological Exploration of Space" (REEGES) Day/Night Power Generator Station, this form of thermoelectric power generation is mathematically modeled, simulation is performed, and a concept model design is demonstrated in this paper. The results of the presented simulation show the maximum total system output capability is 9.89 V, 6.66 A, and 65.9 W, with an operating time of up to 12 h, through a scalable design. This research provides instructions to the Space Research Community on a complete and novel development methodology for creating fully customized, configurable, safe, and reliable solar/thermoelectric day/night power generators, specifically meant for use on the Moon and Mars, using the Proportional-Integral-Derivative++ (PID++) Humanoid Motion Control Algorithm for its operation on a computationally lightweight microcontroller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Full- and reduced-order observers have been used in many engineering applications, particularly for energy systems. Applications of observers to energy systems are twofold: (1) the use of observed variables of dynamic systems for the purpose of feedback control and (2) the use of observers in their own right to observe (estimate) state variables of particular energy processes and systems. In addition to the classical Luenberger-type observers, we will review some papers on functional, fractional, and disturbance observers, as well as sliding-mode observers used for energy systems. Observers have been applied to energy systems in both continuous and discrete time domains and in both deterministic and stochastic problem formulations to observe (estimate) state variables over either finite or infinite time (steady-state) intervals. This overview paper will provide a detailed overview of observers used for linear and linearized mathematical models of energy systems and review the most important and most recent papers on the use of observers for nonlinear lumped (concentrated)-parameter systems. The emphasis will be on applications of observers to renewable energy systems, such as fuel cells, batteries, solar cells, and wind turbines. In addition, we will present recent research results on the use of observers for distributed-parameter systems and comment on their actual and potential applications in energy processes and systems. Due to the large number of papers that have been published on this topic, we will concentrate our attention mostly on papers published in high-quality journals in recent years, mostly in the past decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses recent advances and challenges in emerging power systems, specifically focusing on the integration of renewable energy sources with conventional power networks. The development of renewable energy solutions has been driven by concerns about diminishing fossil fuels, increasing energy demand, pollution, and global warming. The integration of renewable energy sources presents challenges in terms of operation, control, and protection practices. The document highlights 16 research papers that cover various topics related to power systems and the challenges faced by emerging power systems. These papers explore concepts such as floating wind farms, coordinated control of fast charging stations and distributed energy resources, AI tools for voltage analysis, open power meters, fault location methods, load forecasting, inductive compensation, blockchain-based energy markets, vibration suppression in smart structures, and more. The document concludes by inviting further papers for a second volume on recent advances and challenges in emerging power systems. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: Turkish electricity market law (EML) came into force in 2001 aiming at establishing a financially strong, stable, transparent and competitive electricity market based on bilateral contracts. Also, a balancing and settlement system (BSS) was put into practice in November 2004 to create a market where uncontracted generation can be traded, and actual implementation of the BSS started on August, 1st 2006 following a 21-month virtual implementation period. However, BSS has always been criticized from its beginning as transferring excessive profits to private generation companies. The present paper analyzes the implementation of BSS and argues that current BSS not only undermines the healthy development of the electricity market in Turkey but also prevents power investments due to uncertainties it created. It concludes that since the inconsistency between the objectives of EML and results of BSS in practice is obvious, Turkish policy makers need to modify current electricity market policy in line with suggestions presented in the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article describes an electronic display that is fabricated by patterning electrically conductive wires (heaters) with micron-scale dimensions on one side of a sheet of paper, and thermochromic ink on the opposite side. Passing electrical current through the wires heats the paper and changes the thermochromic ink from colored (black, green, or other colors) to transparent; this change in property reveals the paper underneath the ink—exposing any messages printed on the paper—and serves as the basis for a two-state “shutter” display. This type of display is thin (100 µm), flat, lightweight (the display weighs <20 mg/cm2), can be folded, rolled, twisted, and creased while maintaining function, and ultimately can (if required) be disposed of by incineration. The display is appropriate for applications where information must be presented clearly (usually only once) for little cost (each display costs <$0.10/m2in materials) and where limited electrical power is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]