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Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix offer significant nutritional benefits. This study evaluates the proximate composition, amino acid profile, GC-MS analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX, and color values of edible paper sheets (EPSs) derived from Alternanthera philoxeroides incorporating different levels of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix flesh. The protein content in the EPSs varied based on fish flesh incorporation, peaking at 52.66% in Ap100/Hm300 (Non-boil). Protein and carbohydrate contents showed an inverse correlation across EPSs, with the highest carbohydrate content of 60.89% in sample Ap400/Hm0 (Boil). Lipid content was also found to correlate with H. molitrix flesh content in EPSs, ranging from 1.59% to 18.41%. Amino acid analysis identified 11 types, with methionine as the most prevalent, followed by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. GC-MS analysis revealed 51 bioactive compounds, including carbonic acid, hentriacontane, and various fatty acids. FT-IR analysis showed characteristic bonds, while color analysis displayed L* values ranging from 24.37 to 30.97. SEM analyses depicted the microstructure, surface view, and elemental composition of the EPSs, and EDX showed an abundance of Ca, N, K, O, C, Mg, Na, P, Cl, Mn, and Fe. Therefore, EPSs prepared from A. philoxeroides and H. molitrix could offer a promising approach for effectively utilizing aquatic biomass and providing both plant and animal nutrients to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we successfully construct the 3D biocompatible graphene through crosslinking 2D graphene nanosheet onto carbon fiber paper with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) as anode of the alcohol biofuel cell. Compared with the bioanode without 3D graphene, the current density and output power of PDDA‐graphene‐ADH bioanode is increased by 23 % and 41 % at a high concentration of ethanol at pH 8.9, suggesting the stabilization role of graphene in enzyme loading. The study provides us a deep analysis on structures and performances of the bioanode incl. electrochemistry, X‐ray photoelectron spectra, and atomic force microscopy images, which is significant to develop the new methods to construct 3D porous electrodes in energy conversion device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several lignocellulosic wastes are generated in the pulp and paper industry (PPI), such as small wood chips (pinchips) and paper sludge, presenting a high cellulose content suitable to be converted into biofuels or bio-products in a forest biorefinery scheme. In this work, two schemes of biorefinery were proposed for their valorization, processing small eucalyptus wood pinchips in two different strategies: (i) autohydrolysis at 230ºC, and (ii) autohydrolysis at 195ºC followed by organosolv process (47.7% ethanol-water, 198ºC for 60 min). More than 95% of cellulose was recovered in both schemes. In the combined process, 76% of delignification was achieved and 78% of xylan was solubilized as xylooligosaccharides. To reduce operational cost of lignocellulosic biomass-to-ethanol fermentation, the mixture of the treated eucalyptus pinchips from two processes with sludge was also proposed to increase the initial glucan content and to supply a rich source of nitrogen (present in the sludge). For that, two experimental designs were carried out for ethanol production by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) process. Ethanol from SSF assays using sludge as co-substrate at 0.6 g of sludge/g of treated wood pinchips and 16 FPU/g of pretreated solids allowed to obtain 59 g/L (90% of conversion) and 46 g/L (96% of conversion) when blended with the wood from autohydrolysis and with the wood from autohydrolysis followed by organosolv, respectively. Overall, this study shows an alternative process valorization of biomasses derived from PPI for production of advanced biofuels and bio-products (such as xylooligosaccharides and lignin) contributing to achieving a circular economy. • Multi-waste valorization approach was proposed to produce biofuel and bioproducts. • Autohydrolysis and organosolv processes allowed > 90% glucan recoveries. • Higher than 40 g/L of ethanol and 90% of yield were obtained in both schemes developed. • Blending with sludge improve ethanol production from pretreated eucalyptus wood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) is an annual fiber crop grown in warm seasons and known for its remarkable productivity; it has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years as a fiber source. While every part of the plant can be utilized for some purpose, its primary significance lies in the diverse applications of its cellulosic fiber. Kenaf features a blend of long bast and short core fibers, rendering it suitable for various industrial uses. Initially utilized for cordage and livestock feed, kenaf's applications have expanded over the last century to encompass its utilization as paper pulp, biocomposites, textiles, biomass energy, seed oil, filtration aids, industrial absorbents, and even as a component of potting medium or as a potential source of medicine. Although traditionally a niche crop, the discovery of its diverse applications positions kenaf for rapid expansion in production in the upcoming decades. This article aims to explore the manifold applications of kenaf, highlighting those with the greatest future potential and discussing those that hold promise for commercial-level application with additional research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

• A distributed constant type equivalent circuit model for paper-based lactate biofuel cells was proposed. • Parameter values using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were estimated. • Local EIS measurement was performed to demonstrate the validity of the equivalent circuit model. In this study, a distributed constant-type equivalent circuit model for paper-based lactate biofuel cells (PBFCs) where the anode and cathode are formed on the same plane was constructed, and a method of determining parameter values in the equivalent circuit model was proposed. When PBFC were prepared and the electrochemical impedance of the entire cell was measured, the Nyquist diagram produced a spectrum due to the current line distribution. Parameters, such as charge transfer and solution resistances, were calculated from the obtained spectrum using theoretical impedance equations derived from the proposed equivalent circuit model proposed. In addition, the behavior of the current distribution in the battery was evaluated in detail by moving the reference electrode on and performing local electrochemical impedance spectroscopy at multiple points on the electrode. The models and methods proposed in this study are good for evaluating systems affected by distributed current lines, such as flat batteries, and for determining cell design, electrode areas, and arrangements. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a paper-based glucose/air biofuel cell (BFC) was constructed and implemented for self-powered pesticide detection. Our developed paper-based chip relies on a hollow-channel to transport fluids rather than capillarity, which reduces analysis times as well as physical absorption. The gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were adapted to modify the paper fibers to fabricate the flexible conductive paper anode/cathode electrode (Au–PAE/CNT–PCE). Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) using 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) as a template were synthesized on Au–PAE for signal control. In the cathode, bilirubin oxidase (BOD) was used for the oxygen reduction reaction. Based on a competitive reaction between 2,4-D and glucose-oxidase-labeled 2,4-D (GOx-2,4-D), the amount of GOx immobilized on the bioanode can be simply tailored, thus a signal-off self-powered sensing platform was achieved for 2,4-D determination. Meanwhile, the coupling of the paper supercapacitor (PS) with the paper-based chip provides a simple route for signal amplification. Combined with a portable digital multi-meter detector, the amplified signal can be sensitively readout. Through rational design of the paper analytical device, the combination of BFC and PS provides a new prototype for constructing a low-cost, simple, portable, and sensitive self-powered biosensor lab-on-paper, which could be easily expanded in the field of clinical analysis and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has set the ambitious target of raising the share of EU energy consumption produced from renewable resources to 32% by 2030, with a target of climate neutrality by 2050. The aim of this paper is to assess the role of biomass usage in the context of these targets. The paper identifies the progress made between 2013 and 2022 by focusing on a selection of EU countries. The largest bioenergy increments of 130, 77, and 60 PJ were reported for Poland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. This study evaluates the crucial role of co-generation and heat in EU regions, with biomass usage between 55 and 80% of the combined heat and power (CHP) energy in Nordic countries. The future perspectives for bioenergy based on EU policies, biomass resources, and technical issues were addressed. The EU possesses around 9% of the global biomass supply, ensuring a certain level of biomass resource dependence. Thus, the biomass usage demand in energy production, non-energy sectors, and transport is expected to rise, leading to increments of 13–76% on biomass imports. It appears that bioenergy development is mostly limited by economic issues and uneven support for bioenergy in different EU countries as well as environmental issues. The study shows a promising and sustainable potential of bioenergy in the EU as a renewable energy source while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and the economy. By 2050, liquid biofuels are likely to be increasingly used in the transport sector. Non-energy sector usage of biomass is still in an early stage of development, except for the pulp and paper industry, and significant use of biomass in non-energy sectors seems unlikely in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-based biofuel cells have the potential to serve as health monitoring devices for urinary glucose and volume by incorporating the fabricated electrodes into nursing diapers. In this study, we evaluate the output power and stability of a biofuel cell by combining 3D impedance measurement and admittance analysis. The 3D impedance-based analysis method can simultaneously detect changes in the overall electrode structure of the enzyme electrode and in the quantity of active enzymes and mediators on the electrode surface. The biofuel cell electrodes were fabricated via screen-printing, using polydimethylglycidyl (poly-GMA)- modified MgO-templated carbon (GMgOC) or poly-GMA-unmodified MgO-templated carbon (NMgOC). The enzymes used were flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent glucose dehydrogenase and bilirubin oxidase, with Azure-A serving as the mediator. Admittance analysis was utilized to measure the enzyme activity and estimate the charge transfer resistance by extrapolating the spectra obtained through admittance analysis. The charge transfer resistances of both electrodes exhibited a greater stability for the GMgOC electrode. This can be attributed to the covalent immobilization of the enzyme and mediator on the electrode facilitated by GMgOC, effectively suppressing enzyme and mediator elution. The electric double-layer capacitance values of both electrodes indicated the overall stability of the electrode structure during the measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fly ash (FA) and exhausted bed sands (sands wastes) that are generated in biomass burners for energy production are two of the wastes generated in the pulp and paper industry. The worldwide production of FA biomass is estimated at 10 million tons/year and is expected to increase. In this context, the present work aims to develop one-part alkali-activated materials with biomass FA (0–100 wt.% of the binder) and sands wastes (100 wt.% of the aggregate). FA from two different boilers, CA and CT, was characterized and the mortar's properties, in the fresh and hardened conditions, were evaluated. Overall, the incorporation of FA decreases the compressive strength of the specimens. However, values higher than 30 MPa are reached with 50 wt.% of FA incorporation. For CA and CT, the compressive strength of mortars with 28 days of curing was 59.2 MPa (0 wt.%), 56.9 and 57.0 MPa (25 wt.%), 34.9 and 46.8 MPa (50 wt.%), 20.5 and 13.5 MPa (75 wt.%), and 9.2 and 0.2 MPa (100 wt.%), respectively. The other evaluated characteristics (density, water absorption, leached components and freeze–thaw resistance) showed no significant differences, except for the specimen with 100 wt.% of CA. Therefore, this work proved that one-part geopolymeric materials with up to 90 wt.% of pulp and paper industrial residues (FA and sand) can be produced, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • New biocathode including BOD, 4-APA, and BP electrode (BP/4-APA/BOD is suggested. • The biocathode is prepared by electrografting method. • Membraneless paper type EBFCs using this biocathode are fabricated. • This paper type EBFC is well operated even in a condition of living body fluid. • OCV/MPD of this paper type EBFC are 0.612 ± 0.002 V/92.025 ± 0.892 μW cm−2. A new biocathode consisting of bilirubin oxidase (BOD), 4-aminophthalic acid (4-APA) and buckypaper (BP) electrode is suggested for enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs). Here, to enhance the electron transfer rate of BOD, electrografting method is imported. When this method and 4-APA are utilized, BP surface has negative charges by the polarity arrangement of 4-APA, forming BP/4-APA structure. With the modification of surface charge, T1 active site within BODs having positive charges are strongly bonded with the negative charges of BP/4-APA in neutral pH condition, while the orientation of T1 site is well aligned by electrostatic interaction. This treatment increases both reactivities of cathodic reaction and EBFC performance. To prove that, the performance of membraneless paper-type EBFCs using the new flexible BP/4-APA/BOD biocathode is investigated. According to the evaluations, their maximum power density and open circuit voltage are 92.025 ± 0.892 μW cm−2 and 0.612 ± 0.002 V with injection of 10 mM glucose which is a condition of living body fluid. Such performances are far better than those of other membraneless EBFCs and are large enough to be utilized as a power source of implantable devices for the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for biomass utilization is increasing because of the depletion of fossil resources that are non-renewable in nature. Lignin is the second most renewable organic carbon source, but currently it has limited scope for application in the chemical and fuel industries. Lignin is a side product of the paper and pulp, sugar, and 2G bioethanol industries. Many research groups are working on the value-addition of lignin. Among the lignin depolymerization methods, catalytic hydropyrolysis is gaining attention and is playing a crucial role in developing biorefinery. The hydropyrolysis of lignin was conducted at a higher temperature in the presence of H2. The hydropyrolysis of lignin results in the selective formation of non-oxygenated cyclic hydrocarbons in a shorter reaction time. It is possible to use the cyclic hydrocarbons directly as a fuel or they can be blended with conventional gasoline. This review focuses on the prior art of pyrolysis and hydropyrolysis of lignin. Possible products of lignin hydropyrolysis and suitable synthetic routes to obtain non-oxygenated cyclic hydrocarbons are also discussed. The influence of various process parameters, such as type of reactor, metal catalyst, nature of catalytic supports, reaction temperature, and H2 pressure are discussed with regard to the hydropyrolysis of lignin to achieve good selectivity of cyclic hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our understanding of ecosystem functioning is strongly linked to the study of predator–prey relationships and food web structures. However, trophic ecology has often focused on identifying taxonomic relationships and quantifying the biomass or energy ingested by consumers, but has often failed to integrate the importance of the nutritional quality of resources in ecological dynamics. Underlying this gap is the multi‐dimensional nature of resource quality which has hampered any consensus on the definition of resource nutritional quality. In this special issue, we aimed at gathering a subset of articles exemplifying the diversity of variables by which resources quality is quantified, the diversity of research topics that can be tackled in ecology – from physiological or evolutionary aspects to ecosystem processes – and propose some perspectives on the integration of nutritional quality within broader ecological concepts. Using a semi‐automated literature analysis, we map the current landscape of the 'resources nutritional quality' research of the last 30 years. We depict how it has been quantified through physical, biological or chemical indicators, the use of these parameters being largely dependent on the type of ecosystem studied and on the investigated ecological process. We then position the articles published in this special issue of Oikos within this landscape, showing they cover a small but relatively well representative subset of the domains of resources quality‐related issues. Articles in this special issue browse a range of individual and population‐level approaches (embracing evolutionary questions) to community related questions, include methodological issues and ecosystem‐wide approaches using trophic quality indicators as tracers of resources origin. Based on these studies and on the literature review, we identify a non‐exhaustive list of challenges and perspectives of research that we consider of highest priority in the large topic of trophic ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass (LB) is widely used in the field of renewable energy production because of its low price and easy availability. Many kinds of fuels from LB have been developed and are being used in our daily lives. The LB energy has become an indispensable part in the energy mix on account of its steady and sustainable supply. However, there are some neglected issues and misconceptions regarding its development and utilization, although it has numerous advantages over other energy sources. Firstly, its development and utilization can change the living environment of organisms and decrease biodiversity to some extent, relative to using other sources of energy. Secondly, it is not a completely carbon-neutralized fuel as has been claimed in some literature. Finally, its excessive exploitation can seriously damage the environment and biosystems. This editorial will give a brief discussion on some neglected issues and misconceptions during its development and utilization for its suitable exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood has always been an indispensable material in human society throughout history. Its efficient utilization is even more crucial today in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, its production, trade, use, and recycling are seldom systematically assessed, with Germany being an exception due to the extensive work conducted by the University of Hamburg and the Thünen Institute over the years. To provide a more precise account of wood use, this study employs oven-dry metric tonne as the reference unit to construct a static wood flow based on the material flow analysis and wood resource balance in Germany in 2020. The Sankey diagrams comprehensively visualize the flow and stock of wood in various sectors, including forests, sawmills, pulp mills, buildings, energy, and waste. Results showed that forest felling volume exceeded growth due to significant wood demand and export, while forest carbon sinks increased because more hardwood was retained in German forests. The building and construction sector was the largest consumer of primary wood products, accounting for 52.1 % of the total, followed by furniture (29.5 %) and packaging (14.0 %). All waste paper was used to produce recycled fiber pulp, whereas only 14 % of waste wood was employed in particle board production. The woody biomass energy, amounting to 142.4 TWh, provided approximately 4.4 % of Germany's primary energy consumption, with around half of it used in private households. In addition to apparent data, this study also uses resource allocation, carbon storage, and cascade potential as examples to demonstrate that wood flow is applicable for further in-depth analysis, supporting wood efficient utilization. It can even be applied to any country and period with sufficient data and conversion factors, but here, they also prevented this study from comprehensively describing past and future wood flows. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arctic melting is an effect of climate change; the use of fossil fuels in marine shipping emits large amounts of air emissions that impact climate change, and Arctic aquatic and human life. Swedish pulp and paper mills generate large amounts of waste and side streams that could be utilized. The production of forest-based biofuel may be a promising solution to achieve sustainable Arctic marine shipping. This review highlights the socio-economic impacts associated with the production of forest-based biofuel in Sweden, the related opportunities, challenges, knowledge gaps, and further need of research. From the economic perspective, it was found that the production and use of forest-based biofuel have short and long-term economic sustainability benefits: (a) short-term benefits, the use of the waste and side streams of the pulp and paper industry is a low-cost available feedstock, unlike first-generation biofuel from crops like corn forest-based biofuels neither require additional land use, water resources nor compete with food. (b) Long-term benefits: (i) the Swedish shipping sector depends on imported fossil fuels, these new biofuels can replace partly those imported fossil fuels that will reduce shipping costs, and generate economic benefits for local consumers. (ii) Usage of forest-based biofuels as blends with conventional fuels in existing engines will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Arctic shipping to the set limits in the region. (iii) One of the important socioeconomic impacts of forest-based biofuel production and use is the new job creation and employment opportunities that will impact the local communities and livelihoods of indigenous people in the area. From a societal perspective, stakeholder involvement is essential to address the sustainability challenges of biofuel production: EU policymakers need to encourage the production and use of biofuels by developing policies that promote biofuel use. Further studies are needed to develop more efficient and low-cost biofuel production routes, more investments in related research and development are required as well. Local indigenous communities must be involved in the decision-making process through surveys, local dialogues, and research studies. The production of forest-based biofuels has great potential and many social-economic impacts alongside the environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable power generation for portable electronic devices is of high interest due to increasing energy demands. Miniaturized biofuel cells are well-reported for this purpose where ubiquitous fluids, like glucose or lactate, can be leveraged. However, such biofuel cells need enzymes to complete the catalysis, leading to many prevalent issues like the longevity of enzymes, complicated immobilization, additional mediators etc. Therefore, non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cells (NEGBFCs) are gaining interest due to their cost-effectiveness, high repeatability and excellent stability. However, based on our best knowledge such glucose biofuel cells are not reported in microfluidic environment, and therefore their potential is not exploited. Realization of the functionality of such NEGBFCs in a microscale is crucial to replace them with their enzymatic counterparts. In this work, for the first time, a microfluidic non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cell (μNEGBFC) is developed on a paper-based platform using metallic catalysts. The catalysts for electrocatalytic energy generation is fabricated using electrodeposition method and their detailed physicochemical characterizations are done. The μNEGBFC is capable of producing a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2 with a stable potential of 410 mV. This green power output can be used to operate low-power micro-devices and lab-on-chip sensors in a more continual and viable manner. [Display omitted] • A simple, cost-effective electrodeposition technique was used for electrode fabrication. • Gold deposited anode and copper deposited cathode were used as electrodes. • A paper-based Microfluidic Non-Enzymatic Biofuel Cell (μNGBFC) was constructed. • The developed μNGBFC generated a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2. • The μNGBFC was capable of retaining 56% of the initial power after 72 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, eco-friendly and disposable paper-based membraneless microfluidic enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) were developed without any mediators to reduce the toxicity and cost of EFCs. Glucose oxidase and laccase were immobilized on multi-walled carbon nanotube electrodes to catalyze the redox reaction of glucose and oxygen. Micromachining techniques well-suited for mass production were used to precisely fabricate micro-scale Y-shaped and cross-shaped EFCs. Experimental measurements showed that the concentration of glucose in the fuel solution affects the cell performance, which occurs because the flow speed of the fuel stream decreases as the concentration of glucose increases. The highest performance of power density (104.2 ± 3.35 μW cm−2) and current density (615.6 ± 3.14 μA cm−2) were obtained with the Y-shaped channel configuration at a glucose concentration of 100 mM. This performance is the best of all paper-based single EFCs reported to date. The new paper-based co-laminar flow mediatorless EFC exhibits strong potential to power miniaturized and portable on-site diagnostic devices. • The first mediatorless paper-based co-laminar flow enzymatic fuel cell was developed. • A glucose biofuel cell was micromachined to be precise and mass-producible. • The microchannel of the biofuel cell was designed with Y-shaped and cross-shaped structures. • Electrolyte flow speed decreased with the rise of glucose concentration in the electrolyte. • The proposed fuel cell shows better performance than enzymatic fuel cells with a mediator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis of paper sludge was demonstrated in a pilot plant. • >99 wt% of minerals in the paper sludge are recovered. • The bio-oil with HHV of 40.9 MJ kg−1 is produced with a carbon yield of 21%. • The bio-based chemicals mainly contain paraffins, olefins, and aromatics. Paper sludge is a solid waste by-product abundantly produced in the paper industry and contains fine minerals and lignocellulosic biomass. In this contribution, the ex-situ catalytic fast pyrolysis of paper sludge with a high mineral content of ca. 71 wt% is reported for the first time and demonstrated in a pilot-scale unit (feeding rate of 11.3 kg h−1) using a granular Na 2 CO 3 /γ-Al 2 O 3 catalyst (loading of 650 g) to produce a high-grade bio-oil at a fast pyrolysis temperature of 475 ± 5 °C (pre-screened using a pyroprobe) and a catalytic upgrading temperature of 500 °C. Besides, > 99 wt% minerals in the paper sludge could be recovered, including paper fillers such as CaCO 3 (major) and talc. The bio-oil obtained at a carbon yield of 21 C.% has a low oxygen content of 3.2 wt%, a low total acidity number of 5.2 mg KOH g−1, low H 2 O content of 0.7 wt%, and a high higher heating value of 40.9 MJ kg−1. It consists of value-added bio-based chemicals such as paraffins, olefins, and low molecular weight aromatics. The results demonstrate that the use of paper sludge to recover minerals and to obtain fuels and chemicals using ex-situ catalytic pyrolysis is technically feasible at a pilot plant scale, which will be of importance for the development of future bio-based economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to analyze the economic viability of municipal household solid waste (organic matter + paper) for the production of gas, coke and biofuel through the pyrolysis and distillation process. The waste was collected in the city of Belém do Pará-Brazil and pretreated at the Federal University of Pará. The analyzed fraction (organic matter + paper) was subjected to the pretreatment of drying, crushing, and sieving and was subsequently subjected to proximate characterization and, finally, pyrolysis of the organic fraction (organic matter + paper) in a fixed bed reactor. Initially, it was necessary to review the literature, and with the yields obtained by pyrolysis of the fraction, economic feasibility analyses were carried out. The economic indicators for evaluating the most viable pyrolysis process were basic payback, discounted payback, net present value, internal rate of return, and profitability index, which are all financial metrics commonly used in investment analysis and decision making. These metrics provide valuable insights into the financial viability and attractiveness of investment projects. They are essential tools for assessing the feasibility and profitability of various ventures, helping decision-makers make informed choices in allocating resources. The analysis of the indicators showed the economic viability considering an analysis horizon of 10 years of materials based on organic material and paper. The breakeven point obtained was USD 0.96/dm3 and the minimum biofuel sales price found in this project was USD 1.30/dm3. The sensitivity research found that material costs (organic matter + paper), bio-oil yield, total project investment and electricity, respectively, are the variables that most affect the minimum biofuel sales price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. Prototheca is the only alga regarded as pathogenic. Much less frequently, infections can be also caused by Chlorella, which is a widely-known dietary supplement. Unlike Prothoteca algae, Chlorella contains chlorophyll and can be used in the production of biofuel as well as electric and thermal energy. The purpose of this review is to analyze cases of chlorella infection. Material and methods. The literature review was performed by analyzing research and review articles from the Pubmed and ScienceDirect databases published over the last 50 years. Analysis of literature. The first case of infection caused by Chlorella was reported in a lamb in 1973 and from then on infections in other species of mammals (mostly herbivorous), reptiles and fish have been observed. So far, two cases of chlorellosis in humans have been con- firmed, the last one in 2014 in Australia. Both infections were a result of a mechanical trauma in freshwater. In 2014 the patient developed aggressive Chlorella infection with necrosis of adipose tissue through bursa and into the paratenon of patellar tendon where it was necessary to perform debridement and bursectomy. It seems that in both cases negative pressure wound therapy brought about successful results. Conclusion. The studies on algae will open up perspectives for better prevention and treatment of infections caused by non-typical organisms such as Chlorella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses the biomass of livestock, poultry manure and straw to study the resource utilization and integration technology by division and classification. The SPSS regression analysis and integration were applied to analyze the economic benefits of the base period (2018) and the audit period (2020). The analysis gives an opportunity in rural areas to reduce chemical fertilizers, pesticides, electricity and coal cost in planting, and this paper opens a novel window for utilizing renewable energy resources and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass waste, which is biodegradable and vastly underutilized, is generated in huge quantities worldwide. Forestry and agricultural biomass wastes are notable for their wide availability, high yield, biodegradability, and recyclability. The accumulation of these wastes not only occupies valuable land but causes serious environmental pollution, which can ultimately harm human health. Therefore, leveraging scientific technology to convert forestry and agricultural bio-waste into bioenergy and other valuable products is crucial. In this paper, common forestry and agricultural bio-waste such as straw, rice husks, livestock manure, tree branches, sawdust, and bioenergy (bioethanol, biogas, biodiesel, biohydrogen) were selected as keywords, with the theme of green and efficient utilization. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the sources of biomass waste, existing recycling technologies, and the potential of forestry and agricultural bio-waste as material additives and for conversion to biomass energy and other derivatives, along with future recycling prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Biofuel supply chains (BSCs) face diverse uncertainties that pose serious challenges. This has led to an expanding body of research focused on studying these challenges. Hence, there is a growing need for a comprehensive review that summarizes the current studies, identifies their limitations, and provides essential advancements to support scholars in the field. To overcome these limitations, this research aims to provide insights into managing uncertainties in BSCs. The review utilizes the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method, identifying 205 papers for analysis. This study encompasses three key tasks: first, it analyses the general information of the shortlisted papers. Second, it discusses existing methodologies and their limitations in addressing uncertainties. Lastly, it identifies critical research gaps and potential future directions. One notable gap involves the underutilization of machine learning techniques, which show potential for risk identification, resilient planning, demand prediction, and parameter estimations in BSCs but have received limited attention. Another area for investigation is the potential of agent-based simulation, which can contribute to analysing resilient policies, evaluating resilience, predicting parameters, and assessing the impact of emerging technologies on BSC resilience in the twenty-first century. Additionally, the study identifies the omission of various realistic assumptions, such as backward flow, lateral transshipments, and ripple effects in BSC. This study highlights the complexity of managing uncertainties in BSCs and emphasizes the need for further research and attention. It contributes to policymakers' understanding of uncertain sources and suitable approaches while inspiring researchers to address limitations and generate breakthrough ideas in managing BSC uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Producers of biofuels for the EU market may use 'low ILUC-risk' certification as evidence that they have not deprived other economic sectors of feedstock material, and hence that indirect land use change (ILUC) emissions have been avoided. At present, the uptake of low ILUC-risk certification is limited to a handful of niche projects, as there is little commercial incentive for obtaining certification. This may be considered a missed opportunity, because low ILUC-risk farming methods offer a range of sustainability co-benefits beyond the mitigation of ILUC emissions. This paper examines the policy foundations of low ILUC-risk and develops policy recommendations that would aim to confer advantages to low ILUC-risk biofuels. Some weaknesses in the low ILUC-risk system's environmental safeguards are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal and biomass are important feedstocks for carbon energy from thermochemical conversion process. Fully understanding the analytical technology that characterizes the changes in physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of coal and biomass during the thermochemical reactions is a key prerequisite for the realization of appropriate utilization of energy fuels. Modern in-situ process analysis technology can accomplish the in-situ detection of the experimental process, and therefore reflect the experimental process more accurately. Moreover, it is developing towards automation, intelligentization, and comprehensive detection. Based on the characteristics of each detection technology, this paper summarizes the basic principles, application scope and performance characteristics of the three advanced in-situ process analysis technologies: hyphenated technology, synchrotron radiation, and online analysis. The practicability and accuracy of each detection technology in coal and biomass research are compared and analyzed, and its latest application and development trend are elucidated. These tools not only make up for the shortcomings of traditional detection techniques in characterizing the in-situ reaction, but also provide complementary information on molecular microscopic changes during fuel thermal conversion. This review paper can provide insights for relevant researchers in the selection of analytical techniques, and promote in-depth study on microcosmic mechanism of fuel conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood-processing facilities, including pulp, paper, lumber, and engineered wood facilities, use large amounts of energy for such purposes as evaporative drying and the curing of adhesives. Much of that energy is already being supplied by the incineration of biomass, and there is opportunity to increase the proportion of renewable energy that is used. Specific changes can be made within such factories that allow them to come closer to what is thermodynamically possible in terms of avoiding the wastage of exergy, which can be defined as useful energy. Savings in exergy are often obtained by optimization of a network of heat exchangers within an integrated system. No steam should be allowed to leak to the atmosphere; rather the latent heat (due to phase transitions) and sensible heat (due to temperature changes) are recovered during the heating up of incoming air and water, ideally at a similar range of temperatures. Thus, by a combination of process integration and full utilization of cellulosic residues generated from the process, even bio-based industries can be made greener. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there are some issues and concerns about the World Trade Organization dispute settlement system, it remains an effective tool for countries to find reasonable solutions for their trading problems. This paper aims to identify the mechanisms of the settlement process between WTO members and to provide a relevant review of the European Union's trade disputes, in particular for energy sector cases. For this purpose, the paper implies a conceptual and descriptive framework and a qualitative approach regarding the EU's trade disputes, especially for energy sector. The results show that the EU is one of the most frequent members in trade disputes, but most of them are concluded. At the same time, most of the cases in the energy sector remain in the consultation phase, the EU being complained by Argentina, Indonesia, Russia, China and Malaysia for sectors related to biodiesel, renewable energy generation and oil palm-based biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and utilization of biomass energy based on the thermochemical conversion of crop biomass to produce hydrogen are of great significance for promoting China's ecological civilization construction, energy revolution, and low-carbon economic development. Henan province is one of the largest agricultural and pasturage provinces in China. Based on the analysis of the status and trends of Henan's biomass energy (BE) development, this paper summarizes the present status of the construction of ecological civilization (CEC) and the factors restricting its development. Challenges in developing biomass energy are analyzed systematically, and strategies and key technical directions for future biomass energy development are discussed. Finally, the paper presents countermeasures and suggestions for CEC based on the development of BE, which will vigorously promote the development and utilization of BE and the process of CEC. This research provides a reference for the further development of BE and CEC in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the acceleration of urbanization and industrialization, carbon neutrality and peak carbon dioxide emissions have become common sustainability goals worldwide. However, there are few literature statistics and econometric analyses targeting carbon neutrality and peak carbon dioxide emissions, especially the publication trends, geographic distribution, citation literature, and research hotspots. To conduct an in-depth analysis of existing research fields and future perspectives in this research area, 1615 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection, between 2010 and 2020, were evaluated by using three analysis tools, under the framework of the bibliometrics method. These publications are distributed between the start-up (2010–2015) and the stable development (2016–2020) phases. Cluster analysis suggests three areas of ongoing research: energy-related carbon emissions, methane emissions, and energy biomass. Overall, future trends in this field include cumulative carbon emissions, the residential building sector, methane emission measurement, nitrogen fertilization, land degradation neutrality, and sciamachy satellite methane measurement. Finally, this paper further examines the most comprehensive coverage of nitrogen fertilization and the most recent research of the residential building sector. In view of the statistical clusters from 1615 publications, this paper provides new insights and perspectives for climate-environment-related researchers and policymakers. Specifically, countries could apply nitrogen fertilizer to crops according to the conditions of different regions. Additionally, experiences from developed countries could be learned from, including optimizing the energy supply structure of buildings and increasing the use of clean energy to reduce CO2 emissions from buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, global environmental problems such as air pollution and the greenhouse effect have become more and more serious. The utilization of biomass energy not only can promote low-carbon transformation to establish a competitive advantage through value creation under the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality but is also an important force in solving environmental problems. Government subsidy policies play an important role in promoting the development of biomass energy utilization. Taking straw as an example, this paper constructs a straw recycling supply chain system dynamics model consisting of farmers, acquisition stations, power plants, and pyrolysis plants based on a real-world case. Two types of straw processing, namely power generation and pyrolysis, are considered in the model. This paper analyzes the economic and environmental impacts of three subsidy policies, namely the unified rate policy, the linear growth policy, and a two-step policy, by comparing the profit, carbon, and pollution emission reduction benefits of the supply chain under different subsidy scenarios. The result shows that, among the three subsidy policies, the unified rate policy shows the best-promoting effect. The research results and policy implications in this paper could be a reference for governments trying to formulate subsidy policies for developing biomass energy utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the evaluation of the impact of newly developed biofuels together with a comparison with conventionally produced fuel, diesel, in terms of their impact on the technical and emission condition of a studied vehicle. The main energy and emission parameters of the internal combustion diesel engine were evaluated. For laboratory experiments, a discrete test method was used for comprehensive assessment, the procedure of which is described in the methodology of the paper together with a description of the measurement chain designed to achieve the determined results. The paper deals with the evaluation of the measured results of power, torque, consumption, and emissions such as CO2 and absorption coefficient. Among the technical parameters, the power and torque drop were observed for each biofuel. The decrease is attributed to lower values of calorific value, viscosity, and density. A positive effect was observed for the CO2 and absorption coefficient emission parameters, i.e., a decrease for each of the newly developed biofuels studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A global inventory of extractive species mariculture in wave-exposed temperate waters shows that the longline is the technology used in more than 99% of the sites (Part 1 of this review). In this second part, I compare the static (longline at rest), quasi-static (tidal sea surface elevation, steady currents and mainline lifting operation) and dynamic (wind seas and swells) loading and motion of surface, semi-submerged and fully submerged longlines used to grow bivalves and kelp. This review is based on a hundred papers published on the subject mostly after 2010 and on simple analytical models used to illustrate the many compromises that must be made to ensure the survivability of the structure and the survival (retention), growth and quality of the cultured biomass. Surface longlines are unsuitable for fully exposed environments. To mitigate storm energy it is necessary to minimize the volume of surface buoys and submerge the mainline to the maximum depth possible. There is however a limit to minimizing the volume of surface buoys due to the uplifting of the mainline by currents. In the case of kelp, its optimal growing depth is within a few meters from the sea surface. This limitation can be partly circumvented by having the kelp float above the mainline. In the case of bivalves, mainline depth can be tens of meters below the sea surface. This comes with some disadvantages including difficulties in maintaining the delicate buoyancy balance, particularly for fully submerged longlines without legs, and reduced access to the mainline, particularly for fully submerged longlines with legs. Devices that allow autonomous or remote-controlled changes of mainline depth on a daily, occasional (husbandry and harvest operations) or seasonal basis have been tested but are not yet used commercially on longlines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently a strong drive to expand aquaculture further offshore cooccurring with a rapid change of the conditions under which this activity will be practiced due to climate change. At the dawn of these profound changes a global review of the current status of technologies used commercially to grow extractive species in wave exposed environments can serve as a benchmark for future developments. Part 1 of this paper presents a systematic inventory of commercial farms in temperate exposed waters. The study area includes 5 regions in the northern hemisphere and 3 regions in the southern hemisphere and covers entirely or part of 48 countries and territories. The inventory is based on 80+ high resolution aquaculture lease maps, most of them available as Internet Web-GIS applications, that cover the entire study area with the exception of a few countries. Exposed sites are first identified from these maps using simple wave fetch criteria and this preselection is then validated using climatological data on wave height and power density (energy flux). The number of sites and the leased area are tallied by region, country, species group and production method. The longline is the production method used in more than 99% of the sites inventoried. Longline design and farm layout in 28 of these sites are reviewed. With a few exceptions, semi-submerged or fully submerged designs are used (in some cases they have been for more than 30 years) while the information on farm layout is patchy. A review of structural damage and loss of cultured biomass due to hydrodynamic forces in commercial and experimental farms confirms that surface and semi-submerged longlines are more vulnerable to large storms than fully-submerged designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of the current state of the theory and practice of bioenergy production from waste allowed us to identify the scientific and applied problem of substantiating the rational configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy system, taking into account the volume of organic waste generated in settlements. To solve this problem, this paper develops an approach and an algorithm for matching the configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy production system with the amount of organic waste generated in residential areas. Unlike the existing tools, this takes into account the peculiarities of residential areas, which is the basis for accurate forecasting of organic waste generation and, accordingly, determining the configuration of the bioenergy production system. In addition, for each of the scenarios, the anaerobic digestion process is modeled, which allows us to determine the functional indicators that underlie the determination of a rational configuration in terms of cost and environmental performance. Based on the use of the developed tools for the production conditions of the Golosko residential area, Lviv (Ukraine), possible scenarios for the installation of modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems are substantiated. It was found that the greatest annual benefits are obtained from the processing of mixed food and yard waste. The payback period of investments in modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems for given conditions of a residential area largely depends on their configuration and ranges from 3.3 to 8.4 years, which differ from each other by 2.5 times. This indicates that the developed toolkit is of practical value, as it allows the coordination of the rational configuration of modular anaerobic bioenergy production systems with real production conditions. In the future, it is recommended to use the proposed decision support system to model the use of biomass as an energy resource in residential areas, which ensures the determination of the rational configuration of a modular anaerobic bioenergy production system for given conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasingly serious problems of energy shortage and environmental degradation, countries around the world are actively developing safe, environmentally friendly, and renewable energy. Biomass energy has become an ideal substitute for fossil fuels due to its abundant reserves, good renewable performance, and zero carbon emissions. This paper discusses the importance and potential of biomass energy as a renewable energy source for China's energy development, mainly including the three biomass conversion methods of physics, chemistry, and biology, seven utilization technologies, such as direct combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis, and five application approaches, such as biomass power generation, biomass gas fuel, biomass liquid fuel, and bio-based materials. This review systematically analyzes the challenges faced by China's development of biomass energy and discusses the future development direction of biomass. The utilization of biomass resources should take a comprehensive and high-value path. China is actively looking for new energy utilization paths, and biomass energy has become a key measure to cope with carbon emission reduction, climate change, and ecological environment protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass feedstocks are growing in importance due to their ability to serve as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels for large scale energy generation, with bioenergy projected to be a growing part of the UK's energy mix. Combined with technologies such as carbon capture and storage, sustainable bioenergy has the potential to produce negative emissions with including counterbalancing residual emissions. This paper presents a systematic review of the sustainability impacts of wood biomass (forestry/SRC) and Miscanthus, which are grown as energy fuels, comparing the three key indicators of sustainability: soil organic carbon sequestration rates, biodiversity, and water use efficiency (WUE). Analysis has shown significant influence from primary soil composition (p < 0.001) and previous land use (p < 0.001) on soil organic carbon sequestration rates following conversion to biomass feedstock production. Conversion from arable to forestry can have positive rates of sequestration of 1.4 ± 0.3 Mg C ha−1 year−1 on mineral soils, while similar conversions on a highly organic soils can lead to losses of −25 Mg C ha−1 year−1. This indicates a strong need for careful site selection for future forestry plantations. Miscanthus showed no preference under mineral or organic soils for carbon sequestration rate. Biodiversity at different trophic scales is impacted differently by biomass feedstock production. No significant impact on invertebrates was demonstrated between feedstocks but there is a significant difference between crops (p < 0.001) for vertebrates at higher trophic levels. A limited dataset was collected for WUE from the review, but analysis showed comparable WUE rates for Miscanthus and short rotation coppice, while forestry had significantly lower (p < 0.001) WUE. With global temperatures increasing and changes to climate, water stress is likely to increase. WUE will play an important role in the considerations dfor long term biomass feedstock planning and sourcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a predominantly humid tropical climate and a large area for expanding agricultural activities, Angola has in principle favorable conditions for bioenergy production. The focus of this study was to evaluate the availability of suitable land for producing sugarcane. This crop is highly efficient in converting solar energy into biomass for energy purposes in Angola. To this end, this paper outlines a method for data collection, processing, and analysis divided into three sections. The first section uses the GAEZ (Global Agroecological Zones) database and QGIS (Quantum GIS) software (version 3.22.5) to assess land availability for sugarcane cultivation in Angola, classifying the regions' suitability into four levels. The second section supplements this with data from the FAOSTAT database, systematically excluding areas with restrictions, such as protected zones, land already used for other crops, and regions unsuitable for sugarcane. Finally, the third section employs an agricultural yield model to estimate the potential yield of sugarcane based on climatic parameters and the amount of bioenergy (ethanol and bioelectricity) able to be produced in the available land. Under these criteria, this study identified the existence of 6.3 Mha in lands of good agricultural suitability, with water resources, corresponding to 5% of the Angolan territory, distributed in seven provinces of the country, especially in the provinces of Cuando Cubango and Cunene, where 85% of the very suitable land under irrigation is located. Adopting a model of agricultural productivity, assuming irrigation and adequate agricultural practices, such area could produce approximately 956 million tons of sugarcane annually, which is significantly higher than the current production in this country. This amount of feedstock processed using current technology could potentially produce 81.3 GL of ethanol and 176.9 TWh of electricity with low GHG emissions per year, which is able to mitigate, as a whole, circa 60.3 MtCO2-eq/year by displacing gasoline in light vehicles and diesel and natural gas consumed in power generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecofuels and their feedstock come in three main product classes: electrofuels (e-Fuels), biofuels, and non-biowaste-derived fuels. Ecofuels originate from non-fossil sources, derived from circular raw materials such as non-food organic waste, renewable hydrogen, and captured CO2 through a rapid process of carbon fixation. Proposed regulation drafts under discussion indicate that new fuels would need to reach a substantial degree of climate neutrality. The manufacture of all ecofuels, however, requires energy input to accomplish the conversion of the initial feedstock; their climate neutrality claims stem from the use of renewable electric energy and/or biomasses in the production process, but fossil fuels are still the main primary sources of global (and the EU's) electric power, and most biofuels consumed in the EU transport mix are still crop-based, with potential conflicts with food and land use. Furthermore, entirely neglecting GHG emissions from renewable energy generation is scientifically debatable, as the impact of the energy (and the related GHG emissions) embedded in the materials used to build renewable energy facilities is small, but not nil. The paper reports ecofuel trends according to the above-mentioned originating technologies and discusses the issues related to their development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion chromatography and related techniques have been the most popular separation methods used in the determination of organic and inorganic anions and cations, predominantly in water and wastewater samples. Making progress in their development and introducing new stationary phases, methods of detection and preparation of samples for analyses have given rise to the broadening of their analytical range. Nowadays, they are also used for substances that are not ionic by nature but can convert to such forms under certain conditions. These encompass, among others, carbohydrates, whose role and significance in humans' lives and environment is invaluable. Their presence in the air is mostly due to the industrial burning of biomass for energy production purposes. In addition, the content of sugars in plants, fruits and vegetables, constituting the base of human diets, affects our health condition. Given that, there is not only a need for their determination by means of routine methods but also for searching for novel analytical solutions. Based on literature data from the past decade, this paper presents the possibilities and examples of applications regarding ion chromatography and related techniques for the determination of carbohydrates in environmental samples, biomass and plants constituting food or raw materials for food production. Attention has been paid to the virtues and limitations of the discussed separation methods in this respect. Moreover, perspectives on their development have been defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though frequent availability of energy is vital for economic growth, using any energy source can have a certain degree of impact on the environment. Pakistan is facing the worst power crisis nowadays. The government of Pakistan has been focused to find energy solutions in fossil fuels. As the world moves toward a clean sustainable direction, coal sources are cheap at the moment, and new coal-based power plants can be put up quickly with a predictable output, but with the degradation of the environment, Pakistan can utilize sustainable energy resources such as biomass, solar energy, hydropower, and wind power, which are frequently available in Pakistan and can generate environment-friendly power above 40,000 MW. It is necessary to consider these sustainable energy resources, as their prices have been dipping dramatically, and it is now cheaper to build new commercial plants based on improved technologies able to generate more electricity. The present paper discusses the insight environment-friendly sustainable energy options available in Pakistan other than coal-fired plants to overcome future energy demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the first study of phyco-remediation of cyantraniliprole, a second-generation diamide insecticide with high toxicity and persistence in aquatic environments, using the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Cultures of C. reinhardtii were treated with four concentrations of cyantraniliprole (0, 25, 50, and 100 ppm). The removal efficiency, antioxidant responses, and biomass composition of the microalga were measured after 1 h and one week of exposures. C. reinhardtii was able to remove cyantraniliprole from the medium by biodegradation, biotransformation, bioaccumulation, and bio-adsorption mechanisms, achieving up to 87.0% removal within 1 h and 84.5% after one week. The microalga also maintained acceptable levels of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants, indicating its tolerance to cyantraniliprole stress. Moreover, some treated cultures (especially those with 25 and 50 ppm cyantraniliprole) showed enhanced specific growth rate, and biomass productivity compared to control cultures. In addition, those with 50 and 100 ppm cyantraniliprole showed enhanced carbohydrate and lipid concentrations compared to the control cultures. These results suggest that C. reinhardtii is a promising candidate for bioremediation of cyantraniliprole-contaminated water and biofuel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are used to produce renewable biofuels and high-value components and in bioremediation and CO2 sequestration tasks. These increasing applications, in conjunction with a desirable constant large-scale productivity, motivate the development and application of practical controllers. This paper addresses the application of robust control schemes for microalgae cultivation in continuous photobioreactors. Due to the model uncertainties and external perturbations, robust control designs are required to guarantee the desired microalgae productivity. Furthermore, simple controller designs are desirable for practical implementation purposes. Therefore, two robust control designs are applied and evaluated in this paper for two relevant case studies of microalgae cultivation in photobioreactors. The first control design is based on an enhanced simple-input output model with uncertain estimation. The second control design is the robust nonlinear model predictive control considering different uncertain scenarios. Numerical simulations of two case studies aimed at lipid production and CO2 capture under different conditions are presented to evaluate the robust closed-loop performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy (including thermal) needs are growing rapidly worldwide thus leading to increased energy production. Considering stricter requirements for the employment of non-renewable energy sources, the use of biofuel in energy facilities appears as one of the best options, having high potential for growth that will increase in the long run both in the Baltic region and the European Union as a whole. This publication investigates the possibilities of using various blends of biofuel containing lignin for heat production and emissions to the air during combustion processes. The paper examines the chemical composition of lignin and bottom ash and explores the impact of a different ratio of lignin in the fuel mixture, the effect of the power of biofuel combustion plants (boilers) and the influence of fuel supply to the combustion chamber on gaseous pollutants (CO, NOx, SO2) and particulate matter emissions. The results of the conducted study demonstrate that, in contrast to pure lignin, the concentrations of alkali metals, boron and, to a lesser extent, nickel and chlorine have increased the most in bottom ash. The use of lignin can effectively reduce the need for conventional biofuel by 30–100% and to increase the temperature of exhaust gases. The lowest emissions have been observed using a mixture of 30% of lignin and biofuel at the lowest range of power (2.5–4 MW). Under the optimal oxygen/temperature mode, carbon monoxide concentrations are approximately 20 mg/Nm3 and those of nitrogen oxides–500 mg/Nm3. Particulate matter emissions reach 150 mg/Nm3, and hence applying air treatment equipment is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is one of the thermochemical processes commonly used to convert raw biomass into hydrochar, a valuable solid carbonaceous product. Waste biomasses such as forestry residues, agricultural wastes and sewage sludges have drawn considerable interests as hydrochar feedstocks. These materials are regarded as economically sustainable material and their usage provides an effective solution to waste management concerns. The carbonization procedure is accomplished using water as a reaction medium at temperatures between 150 and 300 °C and pressure up to 20 bar. Typically, the biomass transformation process is completed using a carbonization time ranging from several minutes to several hours. In addition to the HTC temperature and carbonization time, the impact of biomass feedstocks utilized on the hydrochar properties and fuel/combustion performance dictated their potential applications as solid fuel and carbon materials. This paper provides a brief commentary on recent studies involving the main biomass wastes transformation using the HTC approach. The impact of raw biomass quality on the resulting hydrochar properties is highlighted and combustion behaviour/performance are compared and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]