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The increasing adoption of electric vehicles is expected to substantially raise electricity demand. This could require significant grid investment to maintain secure electricity supply, which has traditionally been provided through infrastructure upgrades. The potential of smart technologies like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) to contribute to security of supply has prompted the need to quantify their impact. We hypothesize that the F-Factor methodology can effectively quantify V2G's security of supply contribution. Applying F-Factor analysis to V2G through optimization modeling and sensitivity studies, we find that key parameters like V2G charger ratings, EV battery capacities, and load profile peakiness significantly influence the results. We conclude that the F-Factor provides a valuable tool for assessing V2G's potential to enhance security of supply, with implications for more efficient grid planning in the context of transport electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis of recorded variations (anomalies) in the potential gradient of electrical field in the atmosphere caused by the propagation of eruption plumes discharged by eruptions of Shiveluch and Bezymianny volcanoes in Kamchatka. The anomalies were recorded at various distances from eruption centers and under different conditions of atmospheric stratification. These conditions have enabled us to show that the eruption plumes of Shiveluch and Bezymianny possessed a 3D electrostatic structure that is consistent with a known phenomenological model derived on the basis of surveys conducted on various volcanoes worldwide. According to this model, the top of an eruption plume contains a positive volumetric electrostatic charge, while the respective charges are negative in the middle, and positive in the lower part of the plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sliding-mode triboelectric nanogenerator (S-TENG) is based on the coupling of triboelectrification and electrostatic induction, converting electrical energy from sliding motion. Introducing micro-textures into the sliding surface, and adjusting the angle between the texture and sliding direction (direction angle) may achieve performance anisotropy, which provides novel ideas for optimizing the tribology and electrification performance of S-TENG. To guide the performance optimization based on the anisotropy, in this paper, groove micro-textures were fabricated on the surface of S-TENG, and anisotropic tribology and electrification performance were obtained through changing the direction angle. Based on the surface analysis and after-cleaning tests, the mechanism of the anisotropy was explained. It is shown that the anisotropy of friction coefficient can be attributed to the changes of texture edge induced resistance and groove captured wear debris, while the voltage anisotropy is due to the variations of debris accumulated on the sliding interface and the resulting charge neutralization. Among the selected 0°–90° direction angles, S-TENG at angle of 90° exhibits relatively small stable friction coefficient and high open-circuit voltage, and thus it is recommended for the performance optimization. The open-circuit voltage is not directly associated with the friction coefficient, but closely related to the wear debris accumulated on the sliding interface. This study presents a simple and convenient method to optimize the performance of S-TENG, and help understand the correlation between its tribology and electrical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A technique has been developed and, for the first time, sufficiently complete data on the radiation-induced conductivity (RIC) of polystyrene (PS) at a temperature of 79 K, close to the boiling point of liquid nitrogen (77 K). RIC has been studied under pulsed and continuous exposure to electrons with an energy of 50 keV. It is shown that the RIC of PS at a temperature of 79 K, as well as at room temperature, determined by the sum of two components: prompt and delayed. Both components at 79 K are much smaller than at 298 K. The total signal falls off by a factor of 40, while the delayed component falls off by a factor of almost 200, and the prompt component dominant in the RIC signal. The possibility of the occurrence of electrostatic discharges (ESD) in PS with decreasing temperature was studied. It has been shown that PS, which is capable of resisting the occurrence of ESD at room temperature, at 79 K passes into the category of materials in which ESD is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatigue failure is a significant factor influencing the safety and stability of corrugated tubes in service. With the rapid development of electric power, aerospace and other areas, increasing expectations for the fatigue life of corrugated tubes are being put forth. Currently, industry and national standards are the most often used approaches for predicting fatigue life. Conventional approaches have limits in reliably forecasting fatigue life under complicated coupled nonlinear circumstances. This research intends to investigate the fatigue life potential of corrugated tubes and improve service safety by concentrating on the relationship between the evolution law of stress-strain distribution and fatigue failure behavior under key material parameter and loading method conditions. The finite element model of corrugated tube fatigue failure under cyclic loading is established based on the combination of experimental method and numerical simulation method. On this basis, the evolution law of stress-strain distribution and fatigue failure of corrugated tubes is examined to reveal the fatigue failure mechanism of corrugated tubes under varied material parameters and loading modes. The research results can not only enrich the theory of design and technology of corrugated tubes but also provide a practical theoretical basis for predicting the behavior of fatigue failure of corrugated tubes in service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical functional groups on solid surfaces greatly influence contact electrification (CE) at water-solid interfaces. Previous studies of their effects mainly swapped materials or bonded related molecules to a substrate, introducing other factors of influence. This work aims at unambiguously demonstrating the role of functional groups in water-polymer CE. We study the contribution of functional groups, by using ion coupled plasma etching to modify a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film, a polymer with a naturally quasi-null charge transfer ability. Fluoride (HDPE−F) and hydroxyl (HDPE−OH) functional groups are generated and endowed HDPE with charge withdrawing ability. HDPE−F withdraws 2.5–2.7 times more charges than HDPE−OH. Concurrently, the surface charges accumulated generate electrostatic forces, altering the droplets motion. This phenomenon provides another approach to study CE, helping to evaluate the contribution of electrons to solid-liquid CE. Finally, employing HDPE−F to perform contact-electro-catalysis shows its activity is 2.4 times higher than that of commercial fluorinated films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact electrification, or contact charging, refers to the process of static charge accumulation after rubbing, or even simple touching, of two materials. Despite its relevance in static electricity, various natural phenomena, and numerous technologies, contact charging remains poorly understood. For insulating materials, even the species of charge carrier may be unknown, and the direction of charge-transfer lacks firm molecular-level explanation. Here, we use all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to investigate whether thermodynamics can explain contact charging between insulating polymers. Based on prior work suggesting that water-ions, such as hydronium and hydroxide ions, are potential charge carriers, we predict preferred directions of charge-transfer between polymer surfaces according to the free energy of water-ions within water droplets on such surfaces. Broad agreement between our predictions and experimental triboelectric series indicate that thermodynamically driven ion-transfer likely influences contact charging of polymers. Furthermore, simulation analyses reveal how specific interactions of water and water-ions proximate to the polymer-water interface explain observed trends. This study establishes relevance of thermodynamic driving forces in contact charging of insulators with new evidence informed by molecular-level interactions. These insights have direct implications for future mechanistic studies and applications of contact charging involving polymeric materials. Contact electrification is a widely observed phenomenon in nature and in materials. Here, the authors use molecular dynamics simulations to show the importance of thermodynamic driving forces in contact electrification in insulating materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated renewable energy systems are becoming a promising option for electrification in remote communities. Integrating multiple renewable energy sources allows the communities to counteract the weaknesses of one renewable energy source with the strengths of another. This study aims to model, design and optimize integrated renewable energy systems consisting of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, a biomass power generator, and storage batteries for applications in remote communities in Canada. Biomass is used as a fuel to produce electricity during periods when solar power and wind power are not capable of meeting the power demand. A methodology is developed to optimize the integrated renewable energy systems design, with the aim of minimizing the net present cost (NPC) and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of the energy systems. Results show that the NPC is $3.61 M and the LCOE is $0.255/kWh for an optimized integrated renewable energy system in a sample remote community that has a peak power consumption of 238.7 kW and an average load demand of 2230 kWh/day. Through the present research, the integrated energy systems are evidenced to be an effective option for electrification in remote communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centrosymmetric-oxide/polydimethylsiloxane elastomers emit ultra-strong non-pre-irradiation mechanoluminescence under stress and are considered one of the most ideal mechanoluminescence materials. However, previous centrosymmetric-oxide/polydimethylsiloxane elastomers show severe mechanoluminescence degradation under stretching, which limits their use in applications. Here we show an elastomer based on centrosymmetric fluoride CaF2:Tb3+ and polydimethylsiloxane, with mechanoluminescence that can self-recover after each stretching. Experimentation indicates that the self-recoverable mechanoluminescence of the CaF2:Tb3+/polydimethylsiloxane elastomer occurs essentially due to contact electrification arising from contact-separation interactions between the centrosymmetric phosphors and the polydimethylsiloxane. Accordingly, a contact-separation cycle model of the phosphor–polydimethylsiloxane couple is established, and first-principles calculations are performed to model state energies in the contact-separation cycle. The results reveal that the fluoride–polydimethylsiloxane couple helps to induce contact electrification and maintain the contact-separation cycle at the interface, resulting in the self-recoverable mechanoluminescence of the CaF2:Tb3+/polydimethylsiloxane elastomer. Therefore, it would be a good strategy to develop self-recoverable mechanoluminescence elastomers based on centrosymmetric fluoride phosphors and polydimethylsiloxane. A composite CaF2:Tb3+/polydimethylsiloxane elastomer with contact-separation-induced self-recoverable mechanoluminescence is demonstrated, and a contact-separation cycle model is established to understand its mechanoluminescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is static charge? Despite the long history of research, the identity of static charge and mechanism by which static is generated by contact electrification are still unknown. Investigations are challenging due to the complexity of surfaces. This study involves the molecular-scale analysis of contact electrification using highly well-defined surfaces functionalized with a self-assembled monolayer of alkylsilanes. Analyses show the elementary molecular steps of contact electrification: the exact location of heterolytic cleavage of covalent bonds (i.e., Si-C bond), exact charged species generated (i.e., alkyl carbocation), and transfer of molecular fragments. The strong correlation between charge generation and molecular fragments due to their signature odd-even effects further shows that contact electrification is based on cleavage of covalent bonds and transfer of ionic molecular fragments. Static charge is thus an alkyl carbocation; in general, it is an ionic molecular fragment. This mechanism based on cleavage of covalent bonds is applicable to general types of insulating materials, such as covalently bonded polymers. The odd-even effect of charging caused by the difference of only one atom explains the highly sensitive nature of contact electrification. What is static charge? Analysis of molecularly well-defined surfaces shows that static charge is an ionic molecular fragment. Contact electrification causes the heterolytic cleavage of covalent bonds, generating these fragments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transportation accounts for one-quarter of all energy related greenhouse gas emissions. As it pertains to transport electrification, higher education institutions—such as universities—can model solutions that affect broader society. Despite this, higher education's role in fleet electrification adoption has been understudied. We, therefore, modeled an archetypical higher education institution to analyze the carbon and economic payback periods of three electrification scenarios (Business-as-Usual, Targeted Electrification, and Full Electrification) using a cradle-to-grave lifecycle and technoeconomic approach. Given the archetypical higher education institution fleet of 368 vehicles, results show an economic ratio plateau point of about 8 years at 20 fuel-based cars replaced by electric vehicles and a carbon payback period peak of roughly 10 months at 50 fuel-based cars replaced. We then performed a multi-scalar analysis by leveraging implementation theory. We find that higher education institutions that adhere to the tenets of implementation theory are poised to be pro-environmental change agents in many regions and countries. The methods and findings herein can be adapted to other institutions, regardless of fleet size, and can bolster relevant decision-making outcomes now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact electrification in a gas medium is usually followed by partial surface charge dissipation caused by dielectric breakdown of the gas triggered during separation of the surfaces. It is widely assumed that such discharge obeys the classical Paschen's law, which describes the general dependence of the breakdown voltage on the product of gas pressure and gap distance. However, quantification of this relationship in contact electrification involving insulators is impeded by challenges in nondestructive in situ measurement of the gap voltage. The present work implements an electrode-free strategy for capturing discrete discharge events by monitoring the gap voltage via Coulomb force, providing experimental evidence of Paschen curves governing nitrogen breakdown in silicone-acrylic and copper-nylon contact electrification. It offers an alternative approach for characterizing either the ionization energies of gases or the secondary-electron-emission properties of surfaces without the requirement of a power supply, which can potentially benefit applications ranging from the design of insulative materials to the development of triboelectric sensors and generators. Contact electrification triggers gas breakdown. Using Coulomb force to estimate voltage, this work provides experimental evidence for the Paschen curves that govern such discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies show the role of various electrification technologies in providing electricity access to households in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on electricity demand for end-use services such as lighting, cooking, heating, cooling and other appliance use. The demand for productive use of electricity, which is important to enhance income generation opportunities and labour productivity, is usually not considered. Using the IMAGE-TIMER integrated assessment model framework, we present a methodology to project the impact of productive activities on the electricity system of the region. We show that growing productive activities increase household electricity demand by half, which has important consequences for determining the cost-optimal electrification technologies. We argue that planning of electricity systems should accommodate this increase in electricity demand for productive uses. In addition, while productive uses of electricity have a positive impact on the financial viability of electrification systems, they also increase the electricity sector investment requirements considerably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: The distinctive characteristics, underlying mechanisms, diverse range of selected materials, and modification methods of contact electrification (CE) at various interfaces are summarized and comparatively analyzed, offering valuable guidance for future investigations of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) at different interfaces. This review gives a detailed insight into the unique applications of TENG relying on different interfacial electrification. The challenges and development prospects of TENGs based on CE are discussed. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) can effectively collect energy based on contact electrification (CE) at diverse interfaces, including solid–solid, liquid–solid, liquid–liquid, gas–solid, and gas–liquid. This enables energy harvesting from sources such as water, wind, and sound. In this review, we provide an overview of the coexistence of electron and ion transfer in the CE process. We elucidate the diverse dominant mechanisms observed at different interfaces and emphasize the interconnectedness and complementary nature of interface studies. The review also offers a comprehensive summary of the factors influencing charge transfer and the advancements in interfacial modification techniques. Additionally, we highlight the wide range of applications stemming from the distinctive characteristics of charge transfer at various interfaces. Finally, this review elucidates the future opportunities and challenges that interface CE may encounter. We anticipate that this review can offer valuable insights for future research on interface CE and facilitate the continued development and industrialization of TENG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we address the question of electric bus planning and operation under stochastic travel time and energy consumption. Uncertainties in the environment may cause disruptions to the planning and operation of electric buses, and a transportation planner must anticipate such conditions and be able to respond appropriately. One of the preconditions for planning robust strategies is understanding the existence and impact of multiple trade-off scenarios, which is the basis for this study. We model the travel time delays and trip energy consumption using estimated probability density functions and use a stochastic, mixed-integer formulation with chance constraints to evaluate several trade-off scenarios for electric bus fleets under uncertainty. The results show the existence of trade-off scenarios that lead to varying degrees of impacts related to network and environment. Careful fleet planning, dispatch, and charge control enable us to make the balance between these trade-offs and achieve better operational performances under uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) based on conjunctive effects of contact electrification (CE) and electrostatic induction are emerging as a new mechanical energy harvesting and sensing technique for promising applications in smart wearables, Internet of Things (IoTs), etc. The surface microstructure of a flexible triboelectric material for the increase of surface area is a common strategy for performance enhancement of TENGs, but the real roles of surface microstructures on their output performance are still not explicit due to the lack of suitable analysis tool and rational experimental design. Taking advantages of the surface-sensitive characteristic of CE effect, this work exploited and developed the electric signal patterns generated by single impact of TENGs as a kind of CE spectrum to analyze and speculate the real roles of surface microstructures of flexible triboelectric materials on the output performance of TENGs. Firstly, four different kinds of surface microstructures, namely planar surface (PS) and three combinations of two basic surface microstructures, i.e., micro lens arrays (MLAs), fabric textures (FTs), and hierarchical structures of MLAs on FTs (MLA/FTs), were elaborately designed and introduced for an identical triboelectric material (i.e., silicone elastomer) by a (micro)molding synthesis route. Then they were used for assembly of TENGs based on vertical contact mode to conduct performance evaluation under the same triggering conditions. Through systematic analysis and comparison of their highly repeatable CE spectra by programmed machine, it was found that the surface microstructure for a flexible triboelectric material to maximally enhance the output performance of a TENG shall achieve a positive synergistic effect of increasing triboelectric charge density, effective contact area and contacting/separating velocity, rather than simple increase of its surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry soil had a high electric resistance, and thus, electric fences are not always efficient in arid regions. When an animal standing on the ground touches the electric line, an electric circuit is formed and the animal gets shocked. Not only dry soil but also snow reduces the efficacy of electric fences. This is because liquid water is conductive, but solid snow is an insulator. However, the conductance of frozen soil is not studied enough. This study aims to investigate whether frozen soil reduces the effectiveness of electric fences and determines the electrical resistance of frozen soil. Four electric fences were installed on the forest edge in Yamanashi Prefecture, central Japan. From May 2021 to March 2022, two sensor cameras per fence were used to detect "probability of electrification" and "probability of intrusion into the fences." We treated from May to October 2021 and November 2021 to March 2022 as a non-frozen season (summer) and frozen season (winter), respectively. Results showed that in winter, the probability of electrification was decreased from 0.5 to 0.29 and the intrusion was increased from 0.03 to 0.07. When a pulsed current was applied, the electric conductance of frozen soil was reduced to 0.5% of that of the wet soil. Therefore, due to their reduced effectiveness in cold conditions, alternate grounding techniques for electric fences are required. For instance, the use of weed control sheet interwoven with stainless steel wire could be a practical solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Light electric vehicles (LEVs), such as e-bikes, e-scooters and electric two-wheelers, can potentially assist the transition to a sustainable transport system due to their low energy and spatial demands. This exploratory survey study investigated and compared the views of LEV users and interested non-users on the vehicles' advantages in Finland, Austria, Spain and Italy among urban residents (n = 4090) to understand factors influencing their adoption. Additionally, differences between personal and shared vehicles were investigated. Method: The survey queried respondents on the advantages of either the LEV they used most often, or the LEV they were most interested in using. Of respondents, 26% were LEV users, 37% were non-users interested in using an LEV and 37% were uninterested non-users. Factors concerning comfort, accessibility, safety, and practicality of travel were formed. The effects of respondent type (user vs. non-users), LEV type, whether the LEV was shared or personal, age, gender and country were examined with a full-factorial ANOVA for each factor and some additional variables. Findings: In general, LEVs were regarded well for travel comfort and supporting accessibility, but less positively for safety and assisting with practical aspects of travel. LEVs were also perceived environmentally friendly. Furthermore, users perceived LEVs more positively than non-users, while age and gender only mildly influenced views. The results suggest that increased familiarity with LEVs is associated with more favourable views concerning them. Existing positive views may have led to LEV use; however, experience could have changed these views as well. LEVs are novel vehicles with recognised benefits, but low familiarity may hinder adoption. Increasing familiarity with LEVs among non-users could encourage uptake, potentially supporting modal shifts from the car to LEVs and thus assist the transition to a more sustainable transport system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the rapid development of the electric power industry, there is a very steep increase in load. In the era of the modern power sector, renewable-based distributed generation has been forced to incorporate into the network. The classical generator dispatch method concentrates only on economic and environmental concerns during dispatch. These approaches are not scheduled considering the capacity benefit approach. The proposed work proposes a fourth-angle view of generator dispatch to meet the demand considering the available transfer capability of the network. This novel method gives an edge in the overloading of the network over classical economic-based load dispatch methods. Since the problem formulated is based on network loading, the objective functions are non-linear and particle swarm optimization is implemented to solve the solutions. This paper presents the comparative result analysis based on economical based optimal power flow (EPOF) and capacity benefited optimal power flow (COPF). From the case studies, we could find the available transfer capability in IEEE 30 bus system has increased by 13% when compared with solving in classical optimal power flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrifying sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) requires major investments and policy intervention. Existing analyses focus on the levelized cost of electricity at aggregate levels, leaving the feasibility and affordability of reaching Sustainable Development Goal #7 – access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all – by country unclear. Here, we use the electrification model OnSSET to estimate granular and spatially explicit levelized costs of electricity and costs per person per day (pp/d) for 40 countries in SSA. We find that solar-powered mini-grids and standalone systems drastically lower the cost of electrifying remote and high-cost areas, particularly for lower tiers of electrification. On average, least-cost electrification in SSA at Tier 3 (ca. 365 kWh/household/year), can be provided at 14c USD/kWh or 7c USD pp/d. These results are sensitive to demand assumptions, for example, misguided electrification planning or oversizing due to overestimated demand can lead to substantial cost increases. Our results highlight large variances within countries, which we propose to visualise using electrification cost curves by country. Policymakers should consider such cost curves and use a tailored approach by country and region to reach SDG7 in SSA. Solar-powered standalone systems drastically lower the cost of electrifying sub-Saharan Africa. Household electrification can be provided at 7c USD per person per day on average. To reflect inter- and intra-country variance, policymakers should consider electrification cost curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radical changes are necessary to address challenges related to global warming and pollution. Ever-tightening emission standards for combustion engines have already led to a drastic reduction in the amount of harmful gas and matter emitted. Drivetrain hybridization and electrification, which are becoming increasingly popular in all sectors, are two additional ways to achieve that goal. However, within the forestry sector most of the equipments still rely on conventional mechanic or hydraulic drivetrains. An example of this is tower yarders, the workhorse of the alpine logging industry. This work simulates the duty cycle and energy flow of tower yarders in logging operations, both with conventional diesel–hydraulic configuration and a proposed hybrid configuration. The objective is to determine the potential of hybridized drivetrains for tower yarder applications. Detailed models are developed to describe the cable-based extraction of timber and tower yarder internal processes. Extensive simulations were performed to determine force, power and energy components during the harvesting operation for both the diesel–hydraulic and hybrid drivetrains. Results confirm the large potential of the hybrid configuration for efficiency improvement and emission reduction, with estimated fuel savings of 45% and 63% in the uphill and downhill configurations, respectively. Extensive sensitivity analysis further demonstrates that the hybrid concept remains effective across a wide range of cable setup and transport characteristics. This confirms the large potential of electrified drivetrains, especially in the presence of very dynamic duty cycles, as is the case in cable-based logging equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current global greenhouse gas (GHG) emission rates will increase the average global temperature by 1.5 °C by 2050. This will be detrimental for organisms and ecosystems, as well as human well-being. Many countries have pledged to halve their emissions by 2030 and reach net zero targets by 2050. Optimum generation of electricity from sustainable green sources and its use to charge electric vehicle (EV) batteries will solve this problem to greater extent. The best places to capture solar energy, use it to meet load demand and charge EV batteries are the large open car parking areas near retail stores, academic institutes, industrial areas, and offices. This study targets the open parking areas of an academic campus (King Saud University, Riyadh) to meet the load demand of 25,000 kWh/day with a peak load of 4180 kW and charging the batteries of parked EVs. Four system designs, simple grid, standalone photovoltaic (PV), simple grid and PV, and smart grid and PV, are compared. Currently, the cost of energy (COE) of the grid is US $ 0.085 in KSA. In comparison, the COE of standalone PV is almost 4.5 folds higher and in simple grid with PV, it is around 58% higher. However, a renewable penetration of 53.8% is achieved. In the third option, smart grid with PV, the COE is 24% lower compared to the base case. A 54.3% of the total energy produced is sold back to the grid, and the total renewable penetration of 77.7% is achieved. To observe the effect of energy sale limit on project parameters, the sensitivity analysis is performed. It can be observed that with a 1 MW increase in the limit, the COE decreases by around 20% and net present cost (NPC) by around 6%. The proposed models for the solar car parks can be used elsewhere with similar climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The more the share of electricity expenditure in household expenditures, the less energy poverty. Son and Yoon ([48]) assert that if households' productivity and welfare are improved by more electricity access, the disproportionate electricity consumption across the income distribution may increase inequality. It is worth noting that Eq. (2) cannot measure energy poverty in the case of high-income households as they spend a small proportion of their income on the electricity bill. The present study focuses on the share of households' expenditure on electricity in total expenditures; however, this definition cannot measure energy poverty because many low-income households in Honduras do not consume and pay for electricity. [Extracted from the article]

Microfluidic systems are widely used in fundamental research and industrial applications due to their unique behavior, enhanced control, and manipulation opportunities of liquids in constrained geometries. In micrometer-sized channels, electric fields are efficient mechanisms for manipulating liquids, leading to deflection, injection, poration or electrochemical modification of cells and droplets. While PDMS-based microfluidic devices are used due to their inexpensive fabrication, they are limited in terms of electrode integration. Using silicon as the channel material, microfabrication techniques can be used to create nearby electrodes. Despite the advantages that silicon provides, its opacity has prevented its usage in most important microfluidic applications that need optical access. To overcome this barrier, silicon-on-insulator technology in microfluidics is introduced to create optical viewports and channel-interfacing electrodes. More specifically, the microfluidic channel walls are directly electrified via selective, nanoscale etching to introduce insulation segments inside the silicon device layer, thereby achieving the most homogeneous electric field distributions and lowest operation voltages feasible across microfluidic channels. These ideal electrostatic conditions enable a drastic energy reduction, as effectively shown via picoinjection and fluorescence-activated droplet sorting applications at voltages below 6 and 15 V, respectively, facilitating low-voltage electric field applications in next-generation microfluidics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct-current triboelectric nanogenerators arising from electrostatic breakdown can eliminate the bottleneck problem of air breakdown in conventional triboelectric nanogenerators, offering critical benefits of constant-current output, resistance to electromagnetic interference, and high output power density. Previous understanding is that its output characteristics are described by a capacitor-breakdown model or dictated by one or two discharge domains in direct-current triboelectric nanogenerators. Here, we demonstrate that the former holds only for ideal conditions and the latter cannot fully explain the dynamic process and output performance. We systematically image, define, and regulate three discharge domains in direct-current triboelectric nanogenerators, then a "cask model" is developed to bridge the cascaded-capacitor-breakdown dynamic model in ideal conditions and real outputs. Under its guidance, the output power is increased by an order of magnitude within a wide range of resistive loads. These unexplored discharge domains and optimization methods revolutionize the output performance and potential applications of direct-current triboelectric nanogenerators. Arising from contact electrification and electrostatic breakdown, DC triboelectric nanogenerators are a promising solution to the air breakdown bottleneck in conventional TENGs. Here, authors reveal and regulate three discharge domains enhancing the device output power by an order of magnitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automotive electrification holds the promise of mitigating transportation-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, yet at the expense of growing demand for critical metals. Here, we analyze the trade-off between the decarbonization potential of the road transportation sector and its critical metal requirement from the demand-side perspective in 48 major countries committing to decarbonize their road transportation sectors aided by electric vehicles (EVs). Our results demonstrate that deploying EVs with 40–100% penetration by 2050 can increase lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese demands by 2909–7513%, 2127–5426%, 1039–2684%, and 1099–2838%, respectively, and grow platinum group metal requirement by 131–179% in the 48 investigated countries, relative to 2020. Higher EV penetration reduces GHG emissions from fuel use regardless of the transportation energy transition, while those from fuel production are more sensitive to energy-sector decarbonization and could reach nearly "net zero" by 2040. This study analyzes the trade-off between the decarbonization potential of the road transportation sector and its critical metal requirements in 48 countries. Our results show that transportation electrification may result in an upsurge in critical metal demand, and decarbonizing fuel production is critical for adequately mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from road transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goals of carbon peak and carbon neutrality have put forward higher requirements for the low-carbon development of power supply. This paper discusses the impacts of multi-energy power generation on carbon emissions for 30 regions in China and proposes low-carbon development suggestions for the electric power industry. The research found that firstly there is a significant strong positive correlation between thermal power and carbon emissions in most regions of China, so the carbon emission reduction of power supply should still focus on thermal power. Secondly, wind power and photovoltaic power have positive effects or negative effects on carbon emissions in different regions. But combined with the analysis results in regions with the rapid development of wind power or photovoltaic power, it could be found that wind power and photovoltaic power contributed to reducing carbon emissions when they developed to a certain scale. It is proposed to speed up the construction of wind power and photovoltaic power in regions with rich wind resources or solar resources such as Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Liaoning, and Gansu. Thirdly, hydropower and nuclear power both have negative effects on carbon emissions. Considering the large demand for electricity in coastal regions where nuclear power is located, it is suggested that coastal regions should gradually promote the construction and application of nuclear power on the basis of safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial process heat decarbonization through electrification could contribute significantly to climate change mitigation efforts. In the US industry, thermal processes accounted for more than two-thirds of the total final energy demand in 2021. Cross-cutting electrification technologies like industrial heat pumps are suitable for the process heat supply to several industrial unit operations in a sustainable way while also improving overall energy efficiency. This study employs a bottom-up approach to investigate the techno-enviro-economic potentials of deploying high-temperature and steam-generating heat pumps in US textile, pulp and paper, and automotive sectors in different timeframes. The results show that the annual technical potential energy and CO2 savings by electrifying heat supply are 310 PJ (or 36% of the projected energy demand) and 28 MtCO2 (or 71% of the projected CO2 emissions) in 2050 respectively, however, these incur additional costs in each sector (ranging between 5 and 18 $/GJ). The required heating capacity of industrial heat pumps is estimated at 15 GW, which translates roughly into a market of over 6000 heat pump units and an investment volume of $7 billion in the studied processes. Although there may be individual cost-effective opportunities for electrifying heat supply in specific industrial sites, the overall costs are estimated to be high in the three industrial sectors due to the large disparity between electricity and natural gas prices and low heat source temperatures. To overcome the identified techno-economic barriers, comprehensive action plans for different stakeholders are also given. This study provides novel insights that should inform policymakers’ and executives’ decisions about the electrification of the current and future US industrial heat supply in relevant industrial sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A carbon responsibility allocation method based on the complex structure carbon emission flow theory is proposed to address the problem posed by the unclear carbon responsibility allocation of each link in the low-carbon development of electric power. First, the calculation method, distribution characteristics, and mechanism of carbon emission flow were analyzed. The "carbon potential of complex structure" concept was introduced to track "carbon trajectory" and "green trajectory" by harnessing the ability of complex structures to retain two-dimensional information. Subsequently, the carbon responsibility allocation methods for network loss and users' electricity consumption behavior were developed to realize the accurate carbon responsibility allocation of each system link. Finally, the effectiveness and advancement of the proposed carbon responsibility allocation method were verified using the improved IEEE 6-bus and 30-bus test systems. The application of the proposed complex structure carbon potential in the carbon emission flow theory expands the research dimension of electric power carbon emission for low-carbon development from the "carbon perspective," provides a novel optimization space for the operation of the distribution network and realizes the carbon emission flow theory, which serves as a bridge from calculation evaluation to optimization decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of the new generation of information technology, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and big data are gradually becoming powerful engines of the smart grid. In recent years, people have been exploring how to reduce the dependence on human experience in the field of transmission line inspection. Therefore, transmission line inspection has attracted wide attention because of its high intelligence, flexibility and reliability. In this paper, we would like to present a survey on the intelligent transmission line inspection based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Firstly, the origin and development of intelligent electric power inspection are reviewed, and then the process of intelligent transmission line inspection and three key issues, i.e., path planning of UAV, trajectory tracking, and fault detection and diagnosis are presented in details. Finally, the challenges and future solutions are pointed out for power inspection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intercensal estimates of access to electricity and clean cooking fuels at policy planning microregions in a country are essential for understanding their evolution and tracking progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 7. Surveys are prohibitively expensive to get such intercensal microestimates. Existing works, mainly, focus on electrification rates, make predictions at the coarse spatial granularity, and generalize poorly to intercensal periods. Limited works focus on estimating clean cooking fuel access, which is one of the crucial indicators for measuring progress towards SDG 7. We propose a novel spatio-temporal multi-target Bayesian regression model that provides accurate intercensal microestimates for household electrification and clean cooking fuel access by combining multiple types of earth-observation data, census, and surveys. Our model's estimates are produced for Senegal for 2020 at policy planning microregions, and they explain 77% and 86% of variation in regional aggregates for electrification and clean fuels, respectively, when validated against the most recent survey. The diagnostic nature of our microestimates reveals a slow evolution and significant lack of clean cooking fuel access in both urban and rural areas in Senegal. It underscores the challenge of expanding energy access even in urban areas owing to their rapid population growth. Owing to the timeliness and accuracy of our microestimates, they can help plan interventions by local governments or track the attainment of SDGs when no ground-truth data are available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonization of the industrial heat demand through electrification could contribute significantly to climate change mitigation efforts. In the US industry, thermal processes accounted for 75% of the total final energy demand in 2018, of which 17% is consumed by conventional industrial boilers (excluding cogeneration) for steam generation. Electric boilers have a small share in the US industrial steam generation due to several techno-economic reasons. This study employs a bottom-up approach to investigate the sector-level and state-level techno-enviro-economic potentials of deploying electric boilers in the US industry in different timeframes. The results show that the technical potential energy and CO2 savings by electrifying industrial boilers are 595 PJ and 200 MtCO2 per year in 2050, respectively; however, these incur additional costs in each sector. Although there may be individual cost-effective opportunities for electrifying boilers in specific industrial sites, the overall costs are high in all industrial sectors and states due to the large disparity between electricity and combustion fuel prices. To overcome the highlighted techno-economic barriers, a comprehensive action plan for different stakeholders is also formulated. This study provides novel insights that should inform policymakers’ and executives’ decisions about the electrification of the current and future US industrial boiler systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the energy efficiency in high energy demand sectors such as industry with a high reliance on coal, oil and natural gas is considered a pivotal step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting the Paris Agreement targets. The European Commission published final energy demand projections for industry capturing current policies and market trends up to 2050. This Reference scenario for industry in 2050, however, does not give insights into the extent to which energy efficiency potentials are already implemented, in which sectors further efficiency can be achieved, to what extent or with which technologies. In this paper, the EU Reference scenario is broken down and compared to a Frozen Efficiency scenario with similar GDP developments but without energy efficiency. Through bottom-up analyses, it is found that with energy efficiency technologies alone, this Reference scenario for industry energy demands (10.6 EJ in 2050) cannot be achieved. That means that the EU Reference assumes higher energy efficiency than possible and too high an effect of current policies. In the Frozen Efficiency scenario, the energy demand reaches 14.2 EJ in 2050 due to the GDP development; 22% higher than 2015. Energy efficiency improvements and increased recycling can decrease industrial energy demand by 23% (11.3 EJ in 2050). In order to further reduce the energy demand, our analyses shows that the wide implementation of innovative in combination with electrification or hydrogen technologies can further decrease the 2050 energy demand to 9.7 EJ or 10.3 EJ, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adopting electric end-use technologies instead of fossil-fueled alternatives, known as electrification, is an important economy-wide decarbonization strategy that also reduces criteria pollutant emissions and improves air quality. In this study, we evaluate CO2 and air quality co-benefits of electrification scenarios by linking a detailed energy systems model and a full-form photochemical air quality model in the United States. We find that electrification can substantially lower CO2 and improve air quality and that decarbonization policy can amplify these trends, which yield immediate and localized benefits. In particular, transport electrification can improve ozone and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), though the magnitude of changes varies regionally. However, growing activity from non-energy-related PM2.5 sources—such as fugitive dust and agricultural emissions—can offset electrification benefits, suggesting that additional measures beyond CO2 policy and electrification are needed to meet air quality goals. We illustrate how commonly used marginal emissions approaches systematically underestimate reductions from electrification. Electrification is a decarbonization strategy that has the potential to reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality. Here the authors evaluate CO2 and air quality co-benefits of electrification scenarios in the United States and find that electrification can substantially lower CO2 and improve ozone and fine particulate matter regionally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Electric fences are an effective means of mitigating human-wildlife conflict; however, some fences are not impenetrable and allow some animal intrusion. This study revealed the most appropriate height of fence lines for target species and whether line tension affected their effectiveness. Nine study plots were used, and an equilateral triangular area of 3.2 m per side (4.43 m2) was enclosed by an electric fence. Electric lines were set at 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 120, 140, and 160 cm, and all lines were connected to the positive terminal of an energizer. The following electric fence conditions were provided for the animals: (i) three levels of voltage (1500, 4000, and 10,000 V), (ii) two types of grounding (soil and metal mesh), and (iii) two levels of line tension. There were nine target species. Two cameras were set up in each study plot, and attractants were placed inside and outside the fence. Animals were observed and recorded both inside and outside the fence. The most touched height of the electric lines was half the adult shoulder height of each species. In addition, the height at which most animals passed through the fence was below their shoulder height. Moreover, high-tensile electric fences were twice as likely to electrify animals than low-tensile fences. These results highlight the importance of understanding the height and tension of electric lines. Thus, the fence line should be set at a high tension and lower than half of the shoulder height of the target species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electron transfer has been proven the dominant charge carrier during contact electrification at the liquid–solid interface. However, the effect of electron spin in contact electrification remains to be investigated. This study examines the charge transfer between different liquids and ferrimagnetic solids in a magnetic field, focusing on the contribution of O2 molecules to the liquid–solid contact electrification. The findings reveal that magnetic fields promote electron transfer at the O2-containing liquid–solid interfaces. Moreover, magnetic field-induced electron transfer increases at higher O2 concentrations in the liquids and decreases at elevated temperatures. The results indicate spin-selected electron transfer at liquid–solid interface. External magnetic fields can modulate the spin conversion of the radical pairs at the O2-containing liquid and ferrimagnetic solid interfaces due to the Zeeman interaction, promoting electron transfer. A spin-selected electron transfer model for liquid–solid contact electrification is further proposed based on the radical pair mechanism, in which the HO2 molecules and the free unpaired electrons from the ferrimagnetic solids are considered radical pairs. The spin conversion of the [HO2• •e−] pairs is affected by magnetic fields, rendering the electron transfer magnetic field-sensitive. Electron transfer has been shown to contribute to contact electrification at liquid–solid interface. Here, authors investigate the magnetic field effect on the liquid–solid electron transfer and propose a spin conversion model for the liquid–solid contact electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accelerated electrification of transport systems with EVs has brought new challenges for charging scheduling, fleet management, and charging infrastructure location and configuration planning. In this review, we have provided a systematic review of the recent development in strategic, tactical, and operational decisions for demand responsive transport system planning using electric vehicles (EV-DRT). We have summarized recent developments in mathematical modeling approaches by focusing on the problems of dynamic EV-DRT optimization, fleet sizing, and charging infrastructure planning. A list of existing open-access datasets, numerical test instances, and software are provided for future research in EV-DRT and related problems. Current research gaps are identified and future research directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of volcanic plumes has been described intermittently since at least the time of Pliny the Younger and the 79 AD eruption of Vesuvius. Although sometimes disregarded in the past as secondary effects, recent work suggests that the electrical properties of volcanic plumes reveal intrinsic and otherwise inaccessible parameters of explosive eruptions. An increasing number of volcanic lightning studies across the last decade have shown that electrification is ubiquitous in volcanic plumes. Technological advances in engineering and numerical modelling, paired with close observation of recent eruptions and dedicated laboratory studies (shock-tube and current impulse experiments), show that charge generation and electrical activity are related to the physical, chemical, and dynamic processes underpinning the eruption itself. Refining our understanding of volcanic plume electrification will continue advancing the fundamental understanding of eruptive processes to improve volcano monitoring. Realizing this goal, however, requires an interdisciplinary approach at the intersection of volcanology, atmospheric science, atmospheric electricity, and engineering. Our paper summarizes the rapid and steady progress achieved in recent volcanic lightning research and provides a vision for future developments in this growing field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High dispersion of data, either obtained by field investigations, or created by time history analyses (THA), for developing fragility curves (FCs), results in remarkable uncertainty in seismic risk evaluation. Regarding the lack of studies on uncertainty reduction of FCs of electric power equipment, this paper presents three means for reducing this dispersion: (1) using spectral acceleration at fundamental period of the system, Sa(T1), instead of peak ground acceleration (PGA) as the intensity measure (IM), (2) using Sa(T1) + Sa(T2), as the IM, and (3) using a set of scenario earthquakes for THA instead of randomly chosen accelerograms. First, a brief history of FCs development for electric power equipment is presented, followed by a short review of the studies on improvement of fragility functions. Then, comparison of the mentioned methods for two key structures of electric substations, a post insulator (PI) and a current transformer (CT) is done. For the PI, first a set of randomly chosen accelerograms was employed, once using PGA, and once more Sa(T1) as the IM, and then a set of scenario-based records, with the same IMs. For the CT, first PGA, then Sa(T1) and finally Sa(T1) + Sa(T2) were used as the IM. Results show that using scenario-compatible records leads to more consistent data for developing the FCs, and that this consistency gets better and much better, respectively, by using Sa(T1) and Sa(T1) + Sa(T2) as the IM. It is suggested that for very high frequency systems, such as PI, Sa(T1) is used, while for moderate- and low-frequency systems, such as CT, Sa(T1) + Sa(T2) is used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building electrification is essential to many full-economy decarbonization pathways. However, current decarbonization modeling in the United States (U.S.) does not incorporate seasonal fluctuations in building energy demand, seasonal fluctuations in electricity demand of electrified buildings, or the ramifications of this extra demand for electricity generation. Here, we examine historical energy data in the U.S. to evaluate current seasonal fluctuation in total energy demand and management of seasonal fluctuations. We then model additional electricity demand under different building electrification scenarios and the necessary increases in wind or solar PV to meet this demand. We found that U.S. monthly average total building energy consumption varies by a factor of 1.6×—lowest in May and highest in January. This is largely managed by fossil fuel systems with long-term storage capability. All of our building electrification scenarios resulted in substantial increases in winter electrical demand, enough to switch the grid from summer to winter peaking. Meeting this peak with renewables would require a 28× increase in January wind generation, or a 303× increase in January solar, with excess generation in other months. Highly efficient building electrification can shrink this winter peak—requiring 4.5× more generation from wind and 36× more from solar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrification can promote deep decarbonization to tackle climate change with a cleaner power grid. Electric heat pumps provide a feasible and energy-efficient way to replace fossil-fuel furnaces for space heating. Rebate and loan programs are the two most widely used incentives for residential heat pump installations in the U.S. This study compares the impacts of rebate and loan incentives on residential air-source heat pump adoption in North Carolina. First, our results show that the rebate program ($300–$450 per system) increases the adoption density by 13% in a year. Second, we find that the rebate program is more effective in promoting heat pump adoption for average consumers than two loan programs (annual loan interest rate: 9%, 3.9%). Third, we find the rebate program is less effective for low-income households than high-income households. Lastly, we compare the rebate with the loan programs in terms of cost-effectiveness and we find the rebate program is more cost-effective under certain circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is almost a consensus that electrification improves household well-being. However, review of existing literature reveals mixed and inconclusive results. Thus, this study is conducted to objectively summarize the effect-size estimates from primary studies, to identify the degree of publication bias and underlying genuine effects using meta-regression-analysis. We also examined the sources of heterogeneity in effect-size estimates from primary studies. We synthesized effect size estimates from those studies focusing on the effects of rural electrification on income, education, employment, time use and women empowerment using meta-regression approach. Indeed, our finding indicates that rural electrification improves rural household welfare. The result shows that there is genuine effect of rural electrification on household welfare indicators after publication bias is filtered out. Specifically, our finding shows that rural electrification has a statistically significant positive genuine effect on household education, employment, income, time uses and women empowerment. However, the study did not find strong evidence for the presence of publication selection for the included welfare outcomes, except for educational outcome. Therefore, collaborative interventions by national governments, international development assistance programs and donor agencies can play a crucial role in the provision of electricity to the poor households in least developed countries (LDCs) to change their life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of wind-photovoltaic stand-alone electrification projects that combine individual systems and microgrids is complex and requires from support tools. In this paper, a multicriteria procedure is presented in detail, which aims to assist project developers in such a design. More specifically, the procedure has been developed under a four-part structure, using support tools and expert consultations to enhance practicality into the rural context of developing countries. First, from a large amount of criteria, a reduced and easy to handle set is chosen, representing the main characteristics to be assessed in rural electrification projects. Second, two iterative processes, one based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process and one based on a typical 1–10 assessment, are tested to assign weights to the criteria, reflecting end-user preferences. Third, some indicators are proposed to evaluate the accomplishment of each solution regarding each criterion, in an objective manner. Fourth, considering the weights and evaluations, the solutions are ranked, using the compromise programming technique, thus selecting the best one/s. The whole procedure is illustrated by designing the electrification project of a real community in the Andean highlands. In short, this paper provides insights about the suitable decision-making process for the design of wind-PV electrification systems and, in addition, shows how different multicriteria techniques are applied to a very local context in rural, remote and very poor areas of developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the needs of production and municipal needs, there is a need for a constant increase in the production of energy feedstock, the production of electricity and its distribution. It should be noted that the amount of electricity generated correlates with the level of economic development of the country. However, some countries are forced to import energy resources from abroad without having their own. The purpose of the paper is to study and analyze the trends and specifics of the development of the Russian electric power industry, as one of the main components of the energy complex. Leading approach to the study of the issue: as part of the study of the issue, the basis is the scientific approach using general and specific scientific methods, in particular systematization, theoretical generalization and the method of comparison with the use of statistical analysis. The paper defines the concept of energy as a whole, the structure of energy complex in the Russian Federation, from the point of view of various authors, defines the concept of electricity and factors of its development. The analysis of trends and specifics of electric power industry the Russian Federation is carried out and the main problems and ways of their solution in modern conditions are identified. Applied value of the material: lies in the possibility of working out problematic issues for further sustainable and effective development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-Saharan Africa faces unique barriers to electricity development due to the large proportion of the population that is un-electrified and the prevalence of rural populations. Typically, power system expansion planning models assume all potential consumers can be immediately electrified. This assumption is unrealistic in sub-Saharan Africa, where electrification will likely be a gradual process over a number of years. Furthermore, since a large proportion of the population in sub-Saharan Africa is located in rural regions, the prioritization of these regions may impact how the grid develops. In this research, we develop a multi-period optimization model for power generation and transmission system expansion planning in sub-Saharan Africa. In contrast to existing models, which assume full electrification, we consider a variety of electrification policies and analyze the impact of varying the electrification rate and policy on the cost and resources selected for power system expansion. We test our model on a case study of Rwanda. We find that varying the year in which full electrification is reached has a larger impact on cost and generation capacity than varying the electrification policy does, although, when urban and rural regions are considered equitably, more rooftop solar is built. Varying the electrification policies has a larger impact on transmission expansion than on generation expansion and this impact is amplified when starting from zero initial system capacity rather than the original Rwanda system. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis shows that tightening the bounds on CO2eq emissions has a large impact on the generation portfolio and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The destruction of an energetic condensed system based on glycerol trinitrate, polyether urethane, and aluminum powder upon exposure to a relativistic electron beam with a maximum energy of 310 keV, a total duration of 170–180 ns, and an average flux density of 200–215 J/cm2 was studied by nanosecond electron-optical chronography, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive analysis. The effect of the generation of pulsed electric fields and shock-wave loads accompanying relativistic electron beam absorption on the mechanical damage to samples of energetic condensed systems is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International sustainability ranking systems generally set criteria in order to monitor global achievement of universities in terms of sustainability. However, current sustainability ranking systems do not provide specific consumption thresholds according to the different buildings' function or characteristic and the comparison among universities lacks of precise criteria. Thus, this paper proposes different energy clusters enabling a meaningful comparison among campuses within the international rankings. Energy profiles of two university campuses—Politecnico di Torino (Italy) and Hokkaido University (Japan)—similar for climate, surface, and population have been collected for 4 years as a relevant case study. Five different clusters of homogeneous consumption have been identified: cluster 1 (around 1 GJ/m2/year) includes the Art departments, cluster 2 (2 GJ/m2/year) includes the Science faculties, cluster 3 (3 GJ/m2/year) includes the hospital and the medicine departments, cluster 4 includes the Data Centre (9 GJ/m2/year), and cluster 5 includes special research facilities with consumption over 10 GJ/m2/year. Findings show how comparisons between different buildings should also take into account the electrification rate (dependence on electricity) and the leveling rate (variation of consumption during a year), which variations are directly related to the main building function (e.g., hospitals/data centers have high values, while arts or humanities departments have low values for both rates). The proposed energy cluster approach and the introduction of proper weights for energy performances based on the proposed clusters can significantly enhance the accountability and comparability of different campuses' energy profiles, contributing to a better evaluation of universities' energy performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a green material, cellulose is widely used in friction triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). However, the weak polarity of the cellulose fibers surface leads to its weak contact electrification performance, which is not conducive to its utilization in TENGs. In this study, epoxy chloropropane and ethylenediamine were grafted onto cellulose fibers to form paper and were assembled with an Fluorinated ethylene propylene film. The output voltage, current, and surface charge density were 34.9%, 26.7%, and 16.7% higher than those of ordinary paper, respectively. When 20% nano TiO2 filler was added to the paper made from amino-modified cellulose fibers, the output voltage, current, and surface charge density of the TENG increased by 70.9%, 226.7%, and 122.2%, respectively, compared with ordinary paper. As the air humidity of the TENG increased from 60 to 90%, the output voltage, current, and surface charge density were maintained at 53.7%, 38.9%, and 61.0%, respectively. When a 5 × 107 Ω resistor was connected to the working circuit, its output power reached 13.78 μ W cm2. This showed that cellulose as a green material has wide application prospects in the field of TENG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]