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The promotion of reuse and resale has been receiving extensive attention worldwide for the sake of sustainability. The current research provides insights into this area and identifies a "reuse and resale cycle," whereby consumers are more willing to resell products they originally obtained second hand, compared to products they obtained brand new. One potential mechanism that accounts for this effect is the relatively weak connection consumers form with the second-hand items they own. Six studies confirmed this effect across various product categories. Study 1 tracked consumers' actual resale of the possessions they owned in real life. Subsequent studies provided further empirical evidence for the proposed effect, uncovered the underlying mechanism concerning the strength of the connection with the product, and showed that the effect diminished among consumers who chronically have a high tendency to link themselves with their possessions. This research advances the understanding of resale behaviors. It has implications for consumers to avoid retaining excessive possessions and for the second-hand market to develop in a healthy manner, eventually contributing to society's sustainability in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the legal regulation of hazardous waste management as a special category of waste. The author examines the state of legal regulation of hazardous waste management in Ukraine from a historical perspective, focusing on the achievements and problems of the current legislation on hazardous waste management related to new challenges, primarily the Russian military aggression against Ukraine and the emergence of a large amount of hazardous waste of a new quality. The study examines in detail the evolution of national legislation in the field of waste management, starting with the adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Waste" in 1998 and ending with the enactment of the new Law of Ukraine "On Waste Management" in 2022. The author notes the positive aspects of the 1998 Law, which for the first time established the basic principles and mechanisms of waste management, defined key terms, regulated the activities of waste collection, transportation, treatment and disposal, and the division of powers between executive authorities and local self-government bodies. However, over time, this law proved to be ineffective due to outdated approaches, lack of integration with European standards, insufficient regulation of hazardous waste and lack of incentives for recycling and reuse. The new legislation, adopted in 2022, introduces a number of innovative approaches, including a waste management hierarchy based on the principles of preventing waste generation, promoting its reuse, recovery or disposal. An important change is the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which obliges manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, including waste management. The new law also stimulates the creation of a modern waste management infrastructure, including the development of recycling facilities and waste collection systems, and introduces an integrated information system for accounting and reporting in this area. Based on the analysis, the author concludes that it is necessary to improve the current legislation on hazardous waste management, taking into account the current problems associated with the new conditions of its management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laccase is an enzyme known for its eco-friendly uses in environmental cleanup and biotechnology. However, it has limitations such as low stability, high cost, and complex recycling. So, there is a need for laccase mimics that can effectively imitate its properties. Herein, we created copper formate–lysine nanoparticles (Cuf-Lys) that mimic laccase's activity. The developed Cuf-Lys demonstrated remarkable polyphenol oxidase-like activity, stability, and recyclability, making them suitable for the fabrication of efficient colorimetric sensors for the detection of epinephrine. These sensors had a specific response and could accurately measure epinephrine concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 50 μM, with a detection limit as low as 1 μM. Furthermore, the biosensor demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity when applied to the detection of rutin. The limit of detection for rutin was determined to be 0.16 μM while in the linear concentration range of 0.25 to 150.0 μM. We believe that Cuf-Lys provide a new route for the design of laccase mimics, showing potential applications for biomedical diagnosis and environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of solid waste is widely regarded as the one of the most crucial issues of sustainability. This is particularly evident in the industrial sector, where the production of slags is huge and their handling presents a significant challenge. In this study, solid wastes from the industrial sector, namely ferrochrome slag (Fs) and fluorite tailings (Ft), were employed for the preparation of glass-ceramics by the sintering method. Three glasses were prepared by using the melt-quenching method, with a weight ratio of 60∼70 % Fs and 40∼30 % Ft (designated S30, S35, and S40, where the higher number indicates a greater Fs content). The sintering and crystallization behaviors of these glasses were characterized by hot-stage microscopy (HSM) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). It was observed that S40 glass exhibited a weak sintering capacity in comparison to that of S30 and S35 glass, which can be attributed to the robust crystallization propensity of S40 glass. The coarser glass frits were subjected to sintering experiments at varying temperatures, which demonstrates that the predominant crystalline phase is augite and that Cr 2 O 3 remains present in all sintered samples. Besides, a transition of the Cr 2 O 3 crystal into uvarovite was observed in S40 glass sintered at 1050 °C. The sintering time controlling experiment demonstrated that both wollastonite and the Ca-rich flow formed during sintering are vital for the formation of uvarovite. The formation of uvarovite can enhance the hardness of GCs. All GCs samples sintered at 1050 °C and 1120 °C exhibit comparable mechanical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying glacier changes is essential for understanding global glacier mass balance, patterns in climate change, and the potential consequences they may have. The glaciers of Geladandong Mountain serve as a crucial water source for the Yangtze River and its downstream regions. Any changes in the glacier at the river source will directly impact the ecological environment and water recycling process downstream. This study presents an approach for monitoring Geladandong Mountain glacier elevation changes using ICESat-2 data combined with a Binned Multilevel Regression Fitting Method (BMRFM). We analysed multi-year ICESat-2 data, considering various topographic features, to understand glaciers' annual and seasonal elevation changes. Our research reveals significant spatial heterogeneity in glacier elevation changes, influenced by altitude, slope, and aspect factors. It demonstrates the effectiveness of ICESat-2 in glacier monitoring, offering insights into the impacts of climate change on glacier dynamics. Moreover, the results indicate a predominant trend of ongoing melting at lower altitudes, with a small amount of accretion at higher elevations. Over the last two decades, the overall elevation change rate is −0.23 ± 0.12 metres per year. Seasonal analysis shows substantial glacier thickening from April to August, primarily due to increased precipitation offsetting elevated temperatures. This study offers a robust method for monitoring glaciers using satellite data, thereby advancing the precision and reliability of glacier research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A common method for reducing waste and environmental problems brought on by landfills is to reuse waste, especially heavy metals such as iron. Automotive industrial waste containing Fe-rich metal is successfully transformed into a highly pure structure of Fe 2 O 3 using an etching method with HNO 3 acid. This resulting structure serves as a precursor for synthesizing LaNi 1-x Fe x O 3±δ perovskite conducting materials. The desired perovskite conductive phase can be produced by substituting Fe 2 O 3 -treated waste at the B-site (Ni position) before calcination at 1200 °C. However, LaNiO 3±δ and LaNi 0.6 Fe 0.4 O 3±δ could not be synthesized under ideal conditions, as indicated by XRD analysis using TOPAS software, which revealed the presence of undesirable phases. Both compounds, LaNiO 3±δ and LaNi 0.6 Fe 0.4 O 3±δ demonstrated electrical conductivity with values of 362 S/cm and 42 S/cm at 550 °C, respectively. Nonetheless, electrical conductivity of both compounds decreased due to unintended phase contamination during the synthesis process. The Fe 2 O 3 -substituted compounds at the Ni position, in an exact amount of 1 mol, exhibited minimal electrical conductivity. Although the synthesis conditions to produce a single phase of LaFeO 3±δ were identified, LaFeO 3±δ , despite its low electrical conductivity, is frequently used in electrical devices as a gas detection sensor. The thermal expansion coefficient of all synthesized waste samples is represented in the range of 12–13 × 10−6 °C−1, which is comparable to IT-SOFC electrolyte materials. Furthermore, microstructural investigation revealed that the introduction of Fe into LaNiO 3±δ reduced particle size and porosity, ultimately resulting in higher densities. These findings were confirmed through synchrotron radiation x-ray tomographic microscopy (SR-XTM) analysis. The research suggests that converting Fe-waste into a pure phase of Fe 2 O 3 using a strong acid etching technique can serve as a viable precursor for synthesizing conductive materials. This approach enhances the value of industrial waste while also reducing its volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Waste copper sulphate solution was electrolyzed to provide sulphuric acid. • This study obtained leaching rates of 93 % of Ni, 91 % of Co, 89 % of Mn and 92 % of Li. • Recovery rates of 91 % of Ni, 91 % of Co, 86 % of Mn and 90 % of Li were achieved. • A novel method was developed without using any acid or reductant. • This work demonstrated the application of treating waste with waste. Effective recovery of Li, Co, Ni and Mn from cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has become a global concern. In this study, electrolysis of copper sulfate to produce sulfuric acid and electrons were utilized to recover Li, Co, Ni and Mn from spent LIBs. The obtained results showed that 93 % of Ni, 91 % of Co, 89 % of Mn and 94 % of Li were leached and 99 % of Cu was deposited during leaching process by adopting the 0.225 mol/L of copper sulfate with a solid/liquid ratio of 15 g/L at a current density of 50 mA/m2 and 80 °C for 4.5 h. Then, a current efficiency of 72 % for the cathode and 30 % for the anode was achieved at a current density of 40 mA/m2, 70 °C and pH 2.5 during electrodeposition process. The Ni-Co deposition followed the principle of anomalous codeposition and the complete deposition time of Co, Ni and Mn were 3 h, 9 h and 10 h, respectively. Eventually, the Ni, Co, Mn, Li and Cu can be recovered as Ni-Co alloy, MnO 2 and Li 2 CO 3 and Cu metals with the corresponding recovery rates of 99.40 %, 91.00 %, 90.68 %, 85.59 % and 89.55 %, respectively. This study proposes a promising strategy for recycling cathode materials from spent LIBs without addition of chemical reductants and acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal gangues i a solid waste during the coal mining process and the accumulation of coal gangue will harm the environment. Therefore, solid waste utilization of coal gangue is required to reduce the environmental damage. In this paper, cordierite ceramics are successfully prepared via a solid‐phase sintering using coal gangue, Al2O3, and MgO as raw materials. The effects of sintering temperatures on the microstructures, phase stability, and thermal properties of ceramics are investigated. The results show that the properties of cordierites prepared at 1200°C are close to those of prepared by the traditional method, and the synthesized ceramics have thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) and conductivity of 4.1–10−6 K−1 and 1.72 W·m−1 K−1 at 900°C, respectively. The sample prepared at 1200°C has good wear resistance (η) with a wear resistance coefficient of 0.507, and an excellent thermal shock resistance, which can withstand 15 times of cold and hot shocks at 1100°C without any cracks on the surface. This study systematically elucidates the thermal/mechanical properties of the synthesized cordierite, and the feasibility of using coal gangue as raw materials prepared cordierite ceramics as refractory materials. This work presents an effective solution to mitigate the challenge of coal gangue disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was designed to investigate the influence of arsenic dosage, variety on the mechanical properties, hydration, and solidification from the perspective of Portland cement (PC) performance evolution. The results demonstrate that using PC could solidify the arsenic wastes effectively, with arsenic leaching concentrations consistently below 5 mg/L. Arsenic wastes retard cement hydration, leading to a slower rate of hydrates formation, disrupting the calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) stacking structure, and thus detrimental to strength development especially at early age. The adverse effect is highly dependent on the arsenic variety. The insoluble calcium arsenate exhibits the least impact, while the arsenates show the largest challenging to immobilization due to the instability of hydrates. Molecular dynamic simulation indicates that arsenic can be chemically immobilized with Ca2+, and be physically adsorbed onto the positively charged C–S–H by forming As‐O···Ca···Si‐O units, accompanied by a significant reduction in adsorption energy by 46.5%. The arsenic solidification behavior provides a basis for the resource utilization of arsenic wastes in cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is difficult to recycle classic thermosetting plastics. Although some of them can be reprocessed, the mechanical properties decline linearly after processing. In addition, most thermosetting plastics are not environmentally friendly and difficult to degrade, resulting in a lot of pollution and limiting their practical application potential. In this paper, the prepolymer is synthesized by using castor oil (CO), hydroxyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS‐OH), and toluene diisocyanate (TDI). Using 4,4'‐diaminodiphenyl disulfide (ODD) as a chain extender with dynamic disulfide bond and aniline (An) as a blocking agent, polysiloxane‐aminoester (SiCPUO) with recyclable function under DMF induction was prepared. The effect of the amount of rigid chain extender (ODD) containing disulfide bond on the properties of SiCPUO was studied, its heat resistance will first increase and then decrease with the increase of ODD content, especially the mechanical properties are more obvious, this trend has never been reported before; the mechanical properties and recyclability of SiCPUO are tested, and the comprehensive performance of SiCPUO2 is the best, the tensile strength is 0.84 MPa and the elongation at break was 65.81%; the solubility test of different solvents showed that it has recyclability, recovery rate is 95%;the material has self‐healing function, the repair efficiency is up to 95%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the synthesis of various bioactive compounds, including bis‐coumarins, bis‐lawsones, bis‐dimedones, and bis‐indolylmethanes, using a novel catalytic system called "Brønsted acid saponin combined catalyst" (BASapC). The BASapC was formed by combining p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) and saponin in an aqueous medium. The prepared BASapC proved to be effective in facilitating cascade‐type Knoevenagel–Michael addition reactions between various aromatic aldehydes with 4‐hydroxycoumarin, lawsone, dimedone, or indole at 80 °C. In the BASapC system, PTSA acted as a powerful Brønsted acid, activating reactants, whereas saponin served as a natural surfactant, enhancing the solubility of organic compounds in water. This catalytic approach established a straightforwardness and robustness of diversity‐oriented synthesis (DoS), delivering the desired products with good to excellent yields. Additionally, the BASapC exhibited recyclability for at least four cycles without significant loss of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inter alia due to the high demand for lithium‐ion batteries, the required critical heavy metals have become a scarce resource. Consequently, effective recycling processes that enable the recovery of such materials are of high interest. A silica adsorbent functionalized with amino‐polycarboxylate derivate ligands (HSU331) was applied in order to selectively adsorb nickel(II) and cobalt(II). Subsequently, suitable parameters for a pH‐swing desorption were investigated. Maximum desorption efficiencies for Co(II) were achieved at pH = 2.7 (72 %) and for Ni(II) at pH = −0.5 (94 %). These results were used for the design of a pH‐shift desorption process in order to selectively recover Co(II) and regenerate the adsorbent after simultaneous adsorption of Co(II) and Ni(II). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides theoretical and practical perspectives on resource recovery (RR) in upcycled food (UF) supply chains. The goal of RR in UF supply chains is to minimize food waste and maximize the value derived from food byproducts and surplus. However, since these supply chains are fragmented and recovering and utilizing food waste involve inherent uncertainties, implementation is challenging. This study employs the fuzzy Delphi method and a fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory. The analysis validates 29 attributes of RR in UF supply chains, examines their causal relationships, and assesses hierarchical interdependencies. The findings reveal that financial resources, managerial strategies, and digital infrastructure causally drive collaborative innovation networks. This study provides managerial implications for the UF industry, highlighting the importance of engaging business stakeholders, supporting collaborative problem solving, allocating budgets strategically, developing lifecycle value strategies, and focusing on value creation. These insights can inform strategies and sustainable practices in the food sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a by-product of the coal industry, the effective use of coal gangue presents significant implications for environmental protection and sustainable development upon effective utilization. Given the rich content of silicon and aluminum in coal gangue, this study converts it into a precursor for ceramic binders used in grinding wheels through the geopolymerization reaction process. Ceramic binders of the SiO2-B2O3-Al2O3-RO-R2O system were prepared at sintering temperatures ranging from 590 to 740°C, and the performance of each sample was tested. The research found that the flexural strength of the ceramic binder reached a peak of 31 MPa when sintered at 690°C. Additionally, the hardness was observed to be the highest at a sintering temperature of 640°C, reaching 211.8 hV. It was observed that as the sintering temperature rose, wettability tended to decrease. Using techniques including XRD, SEM, and EDS, the effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure and phase transformation of the material was analyzed, and these changes determined the properties of the material. This study not only confirmed the potential value of coal gangue in the abrasive tools industry but also opened up new strategies and technical solutions for the field of solid waste resource utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient lithium/magnesium (Li+/Mg2+) separation attainment is fundamental to the extraction of lithium from brine by nanofiltration membrane separation process, which is essential for resource recovery and a circular water economy. However, for poly(piperazine‐amide) nanofilm composite membranes, the higher electronegativity affects the Mg2+ rejection and consequently Li+/Mg2+ separation performance. Manipulating the positive charge density and pore size regulation of the nanofiltration membranes are determinative of the Li+/Mg2+ separation performance improvement. Here, a new monomer 1,1′‐(hexane‐1,6‐diyl)bis(1‐methylpiperazin‐1‐ium) bromide containing bis‐quaternary ammonium cations is employed as a molecular building block to fabricate polyamide nanofilms via interfacial polymerization. The dual quaternary ammoniums and the rod‐shaped conformation of the monomer confer enhanced electropositivity, steric hindrance, loosely packed microporous network structure (pore diameter∼0.8–1.35 nm), and high free volume. The resultant membrane exhibits high water permeance of 28.34 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 with good Li+/Mg2+ selectivity of up to 76.9. In addition, the membrane also exhibits chlorine stability performance owing to the lack of the chlorine sensitive −NH groups in the formed tertiary amide structures. Computational insights on the structural properties, nanofilm formation, and transmembrane water and ion transport behaviors are provided. This study offers insightful theoretical and technological concepts to design and construct membrane materials for energy‐efficient separations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light-responsive Pickering interfacial biocatalysis (LPIB) is desirable because of its convenient catalyst recovery, product separation and clean external stimuli trigger. However, the recyclability of LPIB is still limited due to its enzyme inactivation. Herein, lipase-entrapped colloidosomes as particulate emulsifiers and biocatalysts were fabricated using the one-step co-assembly of lipases and TiO2 nanoparticles (with light-responsive wettability). The obtained LPIB exhibited a 4.31-fold enhancement of enzyme activity compared with the traditional biphasic system. Impressively, the LPIB maintained nearly 90% of its initial enzyme activity even after 20 cycles, which is the highest among the currently reported LPIBs. It is attributed that the TiO2 nanoparticle layer on the colloidosome surface reflects UV light, thus protecting the enzyme from photodegradation. This green platform can be widely applied to construct recyclable and efficient biphasic biocatalytic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A metal-free B(C6F5)3 and HFIP synergistically catalyzed bisarylation reaction between difluoroacetaldehyde ethyl hemiacetal and anilines was developed to efficiently synthesize symmetrical and unsymmetrical difluoromethylated diarylmethanes without using stoichiometric activating agents or in concentrated strong acid media. This efficient, scalable and operationally simple protocol displays high atom economy and broad substrate tolerance, allowing quick access to diverse symmetrical and unsymmetrical difluoromethylated diarylmethane products under mild conditions. Furthermore, the recyclability and reusability of the HFIP solvent make the reaction environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a circular economy (CE) and protect the environment, waste recycling (WR) is crucial. This study examines WR research conducted over the past two decades to identify the most significant advancements and promising areas for future research. The following challenges were handled through text mining, content, and bibliometrics analysis: How has CE influenced the evolution of WR research? What are the CE's most important WR research trends and themes? What directions could future research on WR take regarding the CE transition? Using 1118 articles from the Scopus database journal, bibliometric networks were made and analyzed. Hence, five critical CE-related problems needing further research were recognized: waste recycling is the first cluster, followed by technology, the CE transformation, plastic waste, and waste management (WM). Examining WM and inclusive waste reduction practices and their distinct highlight patterns may impact future research fields and serve as a transitional tool to CE (which aims to minimize waste generation). Forthcoming research targets contain waste reduction and incorporation of WR into the CE framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of organic wastes into cement-based materials shows promise as a solution to mitigate environmental pollutants. It achieves this by minimizing waste sent to landfills and in some conditions decreasing Portland cement use. One of these organic wastes that produces positive effects when used in cement products is olive seed. In this study, the effect of a new generation bio-polymeric admixture on the physical and mechanical properties of cement mortars is examined in detail. The bio-polymeric admixture is prepared by grinding olive seeds in 0/125 μm sizes. The olive seeds have been used as bio-polymeric admixture in cement mortars at different rates, i.e., 0, 0.2, 0.35, 0.5, 1 and 1.5% of total weight. The olive seed is characterized by XRD, FT-IR analysis and by determining extracts, pectin, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin content. The characteristics of hydration products were analyzed by SEM/EDS and XRD investigations. Effect of bio-polymeric admixture addition on the unit weight, flowability, setting time, compressive and flexural strength and capillary water absorption was analyzed. The results suggested that the bio-polymeric admixture hindered the cement hydration at low usage rates but promoted at high usage rates. Accordingly, 28 days compressive and flexural strength of test samples decreased. However, 1.5 wt% bio-polymeric admixture was associated with a slight increase of 150-days compressive strength. Bio-polymeric admixture improves the hydrophobicity property of the hardened mortar samples by declining effect on the water absorption. Another important effect of the bio-polymeric admixture contribution was also observed on the flowability property of the cement mortars. As the bio-polymeric admixture increased, the flow diameter values of the mortar were also significantly increased. The research outcomes suggested for the first time the beneficial effect of bio-polymeric admixture as a natural and bio-degradable alternative of chemical admixtures on especially flowability, set retarder and hydrophobicity of cement mortars with comparable mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distinct roles of different chemical species are essential for the discovery of novel chemical transformations in organic synthesis. Here, we have designed a potential strategy for the synthesis of triarylmethanes (TRAMs) using the dual C(aryl)‐alkylation process. This protocol was influenced by 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as a pivotal reagent and proceeds through the selective para C−H functionalization method. The described approach has been proven to be highly efficient in terms of substrate scope with excellent functional group tolerance and gram scale synthesis of the desired product with 90 % yield. The recyclability and reusability of HFIP has enhanced the feasibility of this protocol towards the sustainable synthesis of TRAMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient photocatalysts play an important role in the various fields such as pollutant treatment and the generation of clean energy. Therefore, developing a photocatalyst with high activity is of great significance. Herein, scandium‐based fluorescent microspheres (Sc‐FMs) are facilely prepared through the one‐pot hydrothermal polymerization of scandium ions and tartaric acid. The prepared Sc‐FMs show strong blue solid‐state fluorescence, with a maximum emission at 412 nm. Meanwhile, Sc‐FMs possess a strong white‐light photocatalysis ability, which can be used for the photodegradation of dye pollutants (rhodamine 6 G) under low power white light without the assistance of any radical generating agents. In addition, the Sc‐FMs display good stability and recyclability. As a result, this new and efficient Sc‐FMs photocatalysts hold a promise for potential applications in environmental treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A remarkably simple and straightforward protocol has been reported showcasing sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC) as an eco‐friendly, bioinspired catalyst for the aerobic oxidative synthesis of pharmaceutically prevalent nitrogen‐containing heterocycles, such as benzimidazoles and quinoxalines. This reaction was performed in green solvent water, using the green oxidant, molecular oxygen. SCC displayed exceptional efficiency, congruent with the prevailing metal/non‐metal‐based catalyst regime without requiring additives. The SCC catalyst exhibited excellent recyclability upto three cycles for the benzimidazole synthesis reaction. This benign strategy was successfully applied in synthesizing a bioactive quinoxaline i. e., Tyrphostin AG1296, a promising candidate for melanoma treatment. The catalytic activity of SCC was explored for the synthesis of another privileged moiety i. e., α‐aminonitriles, via the α‐cyanation of tertiary amines under oxidative conditions. This reaction progressed with a mild, easy‐to‐use, convenient cyanide source, such as ethyl cyanoformate, and a green and attractive solvent, such as methanol, precluding acidic media. SCC catalyst was efficiently recycled upto three cycles for the α‐aminonitriles synthesis. Overall, the utility of a biodegradable, robust catalyst such as SCC, eco‐friendly solvents such as water and methanol, green oxidants such as O2, and mild reaction conditions, devoid of acidic additives, renders the present work viable for academic and industrial research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakelite, a thermosetting plastic, has limited feasibility for thermal recycling processes such as pyrolysis, unlike thermoplastics, due to its inherent tendency to get charred upon heating and difficulty in being converted into valuable fuel and chemical compounds. In this study, the co‐pyrolysis of bakelite and poly methyl methacrylate is explored to improve the thermal degradation and thus recycling feasibility of bakelite by pyrolysis. The kinetics and thermodynamics of the co‐pyrolysis of blended samples are analyzed using different kinetics models. The thermal degradation experiments of the sample are conducted from ambient to 1000 °C at five various heating rates of 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50 °C/min in an inert N2 gas environment. The results showed that adding poly methyl methacrylate to bakelite changes the pyrolytic degradation temperature and weight loss trend. The kinetic analysis reveals that the thermal degradation at 220–345 °C follows an F2.5 order‐based model with an average activation energy of 181 kJ/mol, while the degradation at 345–475 °C follows an F2 order‐based model with an average activation energy of 318 kJ/mol. The enthalpy changes and free energy change associated with thermal degradation exhibit a positive trend while that of entropy change shows a negative trend. With blending the free energy change and entropy change decreased while enthalpy change increased. During batch pyrolysis at 450 °C, the PMMA‐Bakelite blend generates oil (49.17 %), wax (12.36 %), residue (15.36 %), and gas (23.11 %). According to FTIR and GC‐MS analyses, the pyrolytic oil produced by the co‐pyrolysis of the blended sample at 450 °C comprises 32.23 % saturated hydrocarbons (C9–40), 20.97 % unsaturated hydrocarbons (C6–24), and 46.80 % oxygenated material (C5–19). These findings can assist in the optimization of pyrolysis reactor design for the recycling of thermosetting plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in food waste recovery by both consumers and companies. Food waste of plant origin is a source of bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phytosterols, carotenoids, and tocopherols, with well‐known antioxidant, anti‐glycemic, and antimicrobial properties. The use of green and sustainable technologies to recover bioactive compounds from food waste is a possible solution to valorize waste following the principles of green chemistry. Furthermore, today's consumers are more attracted, informed, and aware of the benefits associated with the consumption of functional foods, and with this in mind, the use of extracts rich in beneficial compounds obtained by green technologies from food waste can be a valid alternative to prepare functional foods. In this review, the recovery of polyphenols and fibers with green technologies from food waste for the formulation of functional foods was presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study collected sludge samples from the kraft pulp mills of a Brazilian industry and physicochemically characterized them to investigate their biovalorization. The objective was to identify opportunities to produce value-added products, promoting the circular economy and environmentally appropriate destinations. The types of processes and raw materials influence sludge characteristics. The primary sludge was composed mainly of fibers and water, has a slightly alkaline pH, Carbon:Nitrogen (C:N) ratio is high attributed to fibers, and contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and organic carbon. The biological sludge was rich in proteins, bacterial cells, and minerals. The analyses revealed functional groups such as hydroxyls and aliphatic methylene, high concentrations of carbon and oxygen, a fibrous and crystalline structure of cellulose in the primary sludge, and dense microparticles in the biological sludge. Thermogravimetry found a mass loss of 11 % and final combustion at 742 °C for the biological sludge. The primary sludge showed a mass loss of 38 % with peaks at 329 and 784 °C, which suggests that the primary sludge could be used as fuel. Potential routes for the use of the primary and biological sludge included its use as agricultural fertilizer, thermal processing, biochar, and production of activated carbon, despite the low calorific values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing functional adhesives combining strong adhesion, good recyclability and diverse harsh‐condition adaptability is a grand challenge. Here, we introduce a general dendritic molecule doping strategy to activate commercial polymers into a new family of supramolecular adhesives integrating high adhesion strength, ultralow temperature, water resistant and multi‐reusable properties. Our method involves rational design of a new rigid‐flexible coupled dendritic molecule—M4C8OH as a versatile dopant, while simple M4C8OH doping into commercial polymers can modulate internal and external non‐covalent interaction to enable H‐bonding enhanced interchain cross‐linking for tough cohesion along with enhanced interphase interaction. This endows 20 wt % M4C8OH‐doped polycaprolactone (PCL) adhesives (PCL‐M4C8OH) with improved adhesion strength on various substrates with the maximum increase up to 2.87 times that of PCL. In particular, the adhesion strengths of PCL‐M4C8OH on polymethyl methacrylate at 25 °C and −196 °C reach 4.67 and 3.58 MPa—1.9 and 2.3 times those of PCL and superior to diverse commercial adhesives and most reported adhesives. PCL‐M4C8OH also displays markedly‐improved multi‐usability and tolerance against ultralow temperature and diverse wet environments. Mechanism studies reveal the crucial role of M4C8OH molecular structures toward superior adhesion. Our method can be expanded to other polymer matrices, yielding diverse new supramolecular adhesives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polythioesters (PTEs) are emerging sustainable polymers for their degradability and recyclability. However, low polymerizability of monomers and extensive side reactions often hampered the polymerization process. Moreover, copolymers containing both thioester and other types of functional groups in the backbone are highly desirable but rarely accomplished owing to several synthetic challenges. Here, we report the ring‐opening cascade polymerization (ROCAP) of N‐(2‐(acetylthio)ethyl)‐glycine N‐carboxyanhydrides (TE‐NCA) to afford recyclable PTEs and unprecedented poly(thioester‐co‐peptoid)s (P(TE‐co‐PP)s) in a controlled manner. By developing appropriated carboxylic acid‐tertiary amine dual catalysts, intramolecular S‐to‐N acyl shift is coupled into the ROCAP process of TE‐NCA to yield products with dispersity below 1.10, molecular weight (Mn) up to 84.5 kDa, and precisely controlled ratio of thioester to peptoids. Random copolymerization of sarcosine NCA (Sar‐NCA) and TE‐NCA gives thioester‐embedded polysarcosine with facile backbone degradation while maintaining the water solubility. This work represents a paradigm shift for the ROP of NCAs, enriches the realm of cascade polymerizations, and provides a powerful synthetic approach to functional PTEs and P(TE‐co‐PP)s that are otherwise difficult or impossible to make. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study designed and simulated a kW-scale SOFC system equipped with liquified O 2 and NH 3 tanks for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). Optimizing the parasitic power consumption and electrical efficiency was performed via using oxygen-enriched cathode gas, in-cell cracking of ammonia and adding steam into cathode gas coupled with phase change of recycle steam. The results show increasing O 2 concentration helps improve the net system electrical efficiency from 47.9% at simulate air to 51.7% at pure O 2. The use of in-cell cracking increases the net system electrical efficiency by 1.3% on this basis. Interestingly, substitution of O 2 to H 2 O would slightly reduce the net electrical efficiency of the system with O 2 -enriched cathode gas (e.g., decreased by 0.2% when using 40% H 2 O); however, substitution of N 2 to H 2 O would help improve the net electrical efficiency of the system with simulated air as cathode gas (e.g., increased by 1.2% when using 40% H 2 O). [Display omitted] • 1D ammonia-fueled SOFC stack model for UUVs are developed. • Optimize performance from the perspective of reducing parasitic power consumption. • An optimization strategy using the phase change process of recycle H 2 O is proposed. • Energy flow diagrams of the system under different strategy are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a real demand for sustainable lightweight structures because of the growing environmental concerns. One important solution is developing structures through recycled scrap/waste thermoplastic materials. The current work studies the friction stir spot weldability of recycled thermoplastics, which will help to analyze the potential of friction stir-based welding techniques towards developing these sustainable structures. The combined behavior of recycling-welding procedures is investigated, as they may cause degradations; to ensure that the base thermoplastic polymer's chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties are retained. Scrapped milk bottles made from HDPE material are used as a case study. The highest lap-shear load of 1528 N was achieved at the optimum welding conditions of 1600 rpm rotational speed, 1 mm plunge depth, and 60 s dwell time. Fractographic studies (macroscopic and SEM-based) suggested four types of fracture morphologies depending on welding conditions used. The DSC results showed no significant differences in melting temperature and crystalline content of the polymeric material. The TGA tests showed no significant thermal degradations. The FTIR analysis of all the samples (bottle, recycled sheet, weld material) exhibited characteristic HDPE peaks. All these results suggest combined-welding recycling had a minimal impact on the polymeric structure. Thus, friction stir spot welding (FSSW) technique joins recycled thermoplastic scrap/waste materials with high lap-shear load and without any significant polymer degradations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stiff structures are generally considered detrimental to the materials' self-healing efficiency because of the rigid conformation and restricted motion of the molecular chains. However, in this study, an unexpected acceleration in self-healing was observed in a urethane network when lignosulfonate, a bio-based stiff structure with stiff benzene rings, was introduced into the polyurethane matrix. An extraordinary increase in mechanical properties was achieved with just 3 wt% lignosulfonate added to the pristine sample, including a strength increase from 16.24 MPa to 42.89 MPa and elongation at break from 390% to 602%. Importantly, this significant enhancement in mechanical properties was accompanied by a notable acceleration in healing time efficiency, which increased by up to 44% compared to the pristine sample. This unique behavior can be attributed to the mediation of lignosulfonate on the ionic bonds between lignosulfonate and the urethane segment, as well as the hydrogen bonds formed within the urethane segments. This mediation ensures ultra-high strength without compromising the self-healing capacity and opens a way for accelerating elastomers self-healing efficiency through lignosulfonate, a readily available biomass-derived material. In addition, the addition of lignosulfonates gives the elastomer some Anti-UV performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanolasers based on emerging dielectric cavities with deep sub‐wavelength confinement of light offer a large light‐matter coupling rate and near‐unity spontaneous emission factor, β$\beta$. These features call for reconsidering the standard approach to identifying the lasing threshold. Here, a new threshold definition is suggested, taking into account the recycling process of photons when β$\beta$ is large. This threshold reduces to the classical balance between gain and loss in the limit of macroscopic lasers, but qualitative as well as quantitative differences emerge for nanolasers. In particular, this new threshold identifies the onset of a transition regime, where the quantum statistics of the emitted light evolve into the Poissonian statistics of a coherent state. It is shown that the threshold with photon recycling consistently marks the onset of the change in the second‐order intensity correlation, g(2)(0)$g^{(2)}(0)$, toward coherent laser light, irrespective of the laser size and down to the case of a single emitter. In contrast, other threshold definitions may well predict lasing in light‐emitting diodes. An overview of different threshold definitions proposed in the literature is provided and their predictions are compared when going from macroscopic to microscopic lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the performance of recycled waste fishing net sheets (WSs) as a sustainable strengthening material for reinforced concrete (RC) slabs. The primary challenge addressed is the debonding failure caused by the low bond strength at the WS-to-concrete interface. To analyze this, two full-scale RC slabs—one with and one without strengthening—were cast and tested under a four-point bending setup. Finite element (FE) models incorporating existing bond–slip laws were developed using the ABAQUS software to simulate the strengthened slab's behavior. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of bond–slip parameters on the failure mechanism. Experimental results indicated that the WS-strengthened slab enhanced the RC slab capacities by 15% in yield load and 13% in initial stiffness. Furthermore, the maximum shear stress of 0.5τmax or interfacial fracture energy of 0.2Gf, compared to values proposed by Monti et al., enabled the simulation of the global response observed in the experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of plastics in the automotive industry is increasingly significant due to their lightweight nature, which contributes to reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while improving versatility and mechanical properties. Polypropylene (PP) and other polyolefins are among the most commonly used materials, especially for components such as bumpers. The use of composite materials, i.e., a combination of different polymers, improves the properties through synergistic effects, thereby also improving the performance of the final product. In the automotive industry, PP reinforced with 20% talc or CaCO3 is commonly used. The mechanical recycling of polypropylene bumpers is the most common type of recycling. However, challenges arise during this process, such as the presence of impurities like paint, chemical contaminants from previous use, and polymeric impurities from different polymers mixed into the polymer matrix, among others. Paint affects both the aesthetic quality and the mechanical and intrinsic properties of the recycled material. This review aims to analyze the main methods reported in the literature, focusing on those with low environmental impact. Furthermore, these methods are classified according to their capacity, effectiveness, substrate damage, environmental hazards, and economic feasibility. It also aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the mechanical recycling of plastic waste in the automotive industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, plastic contamination worldwide is a concerning reality that can be addressed with appropriate society education as well as looking for innovative polymeric alternatives based on the reuse of waste and recycling with a circular economy point of view, thus taking into consideration that a future world without plastic is quite impossible to conceive. In this regard, in this review, we focus on sustainable polymeric materials, biodegradable and bio-based polymers, additives, and micro/nanoparticles to be used to obtain new environmentally friendly polymeric-based materials. Although biodegradable polymers possess poorer overall properties than traditional ones, they have gained a huge interest in many industrial sectors due to their inherent biodegradability in natural environments. Therefore, several strategies have been proposed to improve their properties and extend their industrial applications. Blending strategies, as well as the development of composites and nanocomposites, have shown promising perspectives for improving their performances, emphasizing biopolymeric blend formulations and bio-based micro and nanoparticles to produce fully sustainable polymeric-based materials. The Review also summarizes recent developments in polymeric blends, composites, and nanocomposite plasticization, with a particular focus on naturally derived plasticizers and their chemical modifications to increase their compatibility with the polymeric matrices. The current state of the art of the most important bio-based and biodegradable polymers is also reviewed, mainly focusing on their synthesis and processing methods scalable to the industrial sector, such as melt and solution blending approaches like melt-extrusion, injection molding, film forming as well as solution electrospinning, among others, without neglecting their degradation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on on-site construction experience, considering the time-varying characteristics of gas well quantity, production time, effective reservoir thickness, controlled reserves, reserve abundance, formation pressure, and the energy storage coefficient, a data-driven method was used to establish a natural gas production prediction model based on differential simulation theory. The calculation results showed that the average error between the actual production and predicted production was 12.49%, and the model determination coefficient was 0.99, indicating that the model can effectively predict natural gas production. Additionally, we observed that the influence of factors such as reserve abundance, the number of wells in operation, controlled reserves, the previous year's gas production, formation pressure, the energy storage coefficient, effective matrix thickness, and annual production time on the annual gas production increases progressively as the F-values decrease. These insights are pivotal to a more profound understanding of gas production dynamics in volcanic reservoirs and are instrumental in optimizing stimulation treatments and enhancing resource recovery in such reservoirs and other unconventional hydrocarbon formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is one of the largest contributors to global waste streams, simultaneously posing significant environmental and resource management challenges. The management of CDW, particularly its potential for energy recovery and industrial symbiosis, has garnered increasing attention as part of a circular economy approach. This comprehensive review explores global practices in CDW management, analysing theoretical developments, technological advancements, and emerging resource recovery and reuse trends. Background: CDW accounts for more than a third of all waste generated in the EU. A wide variety of materials, such as concrete, bricks, wood, glass, metals, and plastics, make it a very un-homogenous waste stream with high potential for material recovery through different approaches. Methods: This review draws on an extensive analysis of scientific literature, case studies, and industry reports to assess current practices in the CDW stream and assessment of the feasibility of energy recovery, industrial symbiosis, and object reconstruction. Results: The originality of the current research is based on a Latvian case study on CDW management that provides valuable insights into household-level practices and progress towards relevant UN SDGs. Conclusions: Various CDW streams have an undeniable potential for valorization through various approaches. Currently, the most common approach is recovery and recycling, although CDW has the potential to broaden its application within the circular economy framework. For instance, industrial symbiosis is a solution that can not only boost the valorization of CDW but also significantly increase material circularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The circular economy (CE) poses major challenges to the citizens of European countries. Proper waste management is a priority here. Poland is one of the countries that has been trying for many years to meet the requirements to achieve an appropriate level of recovery as well as the recycling of municipal and packaging waste. In order to achieve appropriate levels of packaging waste recycling, it was planned to implement an otherwise refundable deposit system starting in January 2023. Currently, work is still underway to implement this system starting in January 2025. The aim of the study is to describe the current work of the ministry, entrepreneurs and recovery organizations in this area and, on this basis, to indicate the barriers and uncertainties encountered in the implementation of this system. The authors want to answer the question of what barriers and benefits can be expected after the implementation of the deposit system. The implementation of the system has been postponed many times (for several years). The current involvement of various organizations (large cities, chain stores and recovery organizations) indicates that the system will be implemented on 1 January 2025. Based on the example of other EU countries, what estimated benefits can be expected after implementing the system in Poland? An extensive literature review and survey research indicate that Polish society views the deposit system favorably and Poland is ready to implement it. Specific regulations from the Minister of Climate and Environment need to be implemented as well as special machine need to be put in stores to start the deposit system. Examples of ongoing efforts to create appropriate infrastructure also show that Poland is on track to join the deposit system from January 2025. The deposit system will be continuously improved and expanded with more packages. Currently, it is planned to be introduced only for selected packages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of multi-component blends to prepare high-performance polymer materials is still challenging, and is a key technology for mechanical recycling of waste plastics. However, a multi-phase compatibilizer is prerequisite to create high-performance multi-component blends. In this study, POE-g-(MAH-co-St) and SEBS-g-(MAH-co-St) compatibilizers are prepared via melt-grafting of maleic anhydride (MAH) and styrene (St) dual monomers to polyolefin elastomer (POE) and poly [styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene] (SEBS), respectively. Subsequently, these compatibilizers are utilized to compatibilize the PA6/PP/ABS/SEBS quaternary blends through melt-blending. When POE-g-(MAH-co-St) and SEBS-g-(MAH-co-St) are added, respectively, both can promote the distribution of the dispersed phases, significantly reducing the dispersed phase size. When adding 10 wt% POE-g-(MAH-co-St) and 10 wt% SEBS-g-(MAH-co-St) together, compared to the non-compatibilized blend, the fracture strength, fracture elongation, and impact strength surprisingly increased by 106%, 593%, and 823%, respectively. It can be attributed to the hierarchical interfacial interactions which facilitate gradual energy dissipation from weak to strong interfaces, resulting in the improvement of mechanical properties. The synergistic effect of the enhanced phase interfacial interactions and toughening effect of elastomer compatibilizer achieved simultaneous growth in strength and toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last decade was dominated by a serious problem that now affects all the planet's natural ecosystems: the increasing growth of plastics and microplastics that are difficult to dispose of. One strategy to mitigate this problem is to close the life cycle of one of them—polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—by reusing it within the most common building materials, such as mortars and concretes. The reuse of PET waste as aggregates also allows us to limit the CO2 emissions released during the production of natural aggregates. This paper analyzes the outcomes of many studies carried out on the characteristics of cementitious mixtures reinforced with waste PET material. Many researchers have demonstrated how PET used as reinforcement of mortars and concretes can produce an increase in the mechanical strengths of the corresponding cementitious mixtures without PET. The tensile strength of this resin is higher than that of concrete; so, by combining the two materials it is possible to obtain a mixture with an overall higher tensile strength, resulting in increased flexural strength and reduced cracking. Using an effective size of PET fibers, it is possible to achieve an increase in the ductility and toughness of the cementitious mixture. Several studies reveal that PET reinforcement reduces the density with a consequent decrease in weight and structural loads, while the workability increases using spherical and smoother PET aggregates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste concrete is a large amount of solid waste produced in the process of urban construction and renewal in China. Its resource utilization is of great significance for saving mineral resources and improving urban environmental quality. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of mechanical grinding time on the particle size distribution and activity of recycled waste concrete powder (RWCP). Combined with unconfined compressive strength, slump, electric flux and chloride ion penetration resistance tests, the effects of RWCP on the mechanical properties, working performance and impermeability of concrete were analyzed, and the phase and microstructure of concrete containing RWCP were analyzed by XRD and SEM. The results showed that the RWCP is mainly composed of quartz, gismondine, C2S, cancrinite and portlandite. The optimum activity of RWCP obtained by ball milling for 45 min was 44.41%. RWCP can improve the fluidity of concrete and shorten the initial setting time of concrete. When the blast furnace slag in the concrete was replaced by the RWCP, the early strength and impermeability of the concrete decreased. When RWCP replaced blast furnace slag by 69.1%, the UCS of the concrete at 1, 3, 7, and 14 d decreased from 9.56, 22.1, 34.1, and 41.2 MPa to 5.9, 14.5, 22.7, and 33.2 MPa, respectively. While RWCP replaced fly ash, the normal strength of concrete increased with the increase in fly ash replacement amount. When RWCP completely replaced FA in concrete, the 28-day strength of the concrete increased from 45.2 MPa to 50.8 MPa. The impermeability results showed that the appropriate substitution of RWCP for fly ash was beneficial to increase the impermeability of concrete while excessive substitution reduced. Based on these results, the RWCP has the potential for large-scale application in the preparation of concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is widely used in bottle production due to its cost-effectiveness and low environmental impact. The first part of this article describes the research and statistical analysis methodology of the influence of the virgin PET (vPET) and recycled PET (rPET) content in the vPET-rPET blend, as well as the preform heating/cooling conditions in the stretch blow molding (SBM) process on the microscopic bottle properties. Microscopic properties such as crystallinity, density, viscosity, relaxation degree of the amorphous phase, and microcavitation in PET were examined. This study reveals that microcavity and solid-state post-condensation effects occur during PET deformation in the SBM process. The increase in free volume, indicating microcavitation, was confirmed by measuring positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). PALS and density of the amorphous phase studies prove a reduction in the dimensions of the free volumes, with a simultaneous significant increase in their number and ellipsoidization. It can be associated with crystallite rotation in a temperature-dependent non-crystalline matrix. The occurrence of solid-state post-condensation effects was confirmed by measuring the intrinsic viscosity. The conclusions resulting from the analysis of the microstructure affecting the mechanical strength of the material were validated by pressure resistance tests of the bottles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the quality of solid waste utilization, this study simultaneously used recycled coarse aggregate and recycled fine aggregate to prepare recycled aggregate concrete, with fly ash partially replacing cement as a binder. After the particle gradation of recycled aggregate was artificially adjusted into continuous gradation, the effects of accelerated carbonation on the performance and microstructure of recycled concrete were studied. The microstructural change was analyzed using mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy. Additionally, the environmental benefits of the recycled concrete were evaluated based on carbon emissions using the life cycle assessment method. The experimental results indicate that accelerated carbonation can increase the compressive strength of recycled concrete by up to 13%, and its microstructure becomes more compact after carbonation. The carbon emissions are reduced by more than 13% after using 20% fly ash, contributing to sustainable development. Additionally, the optimal replacement rate of recycled fine aggregate should be controlled to under 15% when both recycled coarse and fine aggregates are used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate forecasting of municipal solid waste (MSW) generation is critical for effective waste management, given the rising volumes of waste posing environmental and public health challenges. This study investigates the efficacy of hybrid forecasting models in predicting MSW generation trends across Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. The empirical analysis utilizes five distinct approaches – ARIMA, Theta model, neural networks, exponential smoothing state space (ETS), and TBATS models. MSW data spanning 1995–2021 for 29 OECD nations are analyzed using the hybrid models and benchmarked against individual ARIMA models. The results demonstrate superior predictive accuracy for the hybrid models across multiple error metrics, capturing complex data patterns and relationships missed by individual models. The forecasts project continued MSW generation growth in most countries but reveal nuanced country-level differences as well. The implications for waste management policies include implementing waste reduction and recycling programs, investing in infrastructure and technology, enhancing public education, implementing pricing incentives, rigorous monitoring and evaluation of practices, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. However, uncertainties related to model selection and data limitations warrant acknowledgment. Overall, this study affirms the value of hybrid forecasting models in providing robust insights to inform evidence-based waste management strategies and transition toward sustainability in the OECD region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six silica-supported phosphotungstic acid catalysts (PTA/SiO2) of different composition (20–70 wt% PTA content) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, BET, BJH, NH3-TPD methods, FT-IR spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine and 1H MAS NMR techniques. The new composite catalysts were first applied in the Friedel–Crafts alkylation of toluene with 1-octene as a benchmark process under batch conditions in order to screen their activity and recyclability. The combined analytical techniques together with the catalytic studies enabled the identification of the main factors affecting the activity of the catalysts. Based on these preliminary experiments, the best performing catalyst system (50 wt% PTA/SiO2) was investigated in continuous flow mode using an in-house-made flow reactor. The thorough screening of the reaction conditions (temperature, toluene/1-octene molar ratio and flow rate) provided firm evidence that the 50 wt% PTA/SiO2 composite is highly active, selective and stable catalyst under mild reaction conditions even at elevated flow rate. Additionally, the catalyst used in the flow mode could successfully be regenerated and reused in the alkylation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the course of the past decade, critical and strategic minerals lists have soared in popularity globally. Though nomenclature may range from critical minerals to critical raw materials, the core understanding is generally one informed by critical functionality – often linked to the energy or digital transition or to military purposes – and economic scarcity, which renders it vulnerable to supply chain disruptions. This paper develops a compendium of core critical and strategic minerals with global importance by comparing the critical and strategic minerals lists of ten jurisdictions (Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and collating a single list on the basis of clear majority representation. Because most mining law practitioners are not trained geologists, the paper then unpacks information that will be valuable to practitioners who encounter a given critical mineral in their practice: Where is it listed as a critical and strategic mineral? Geopolitically speaking, what does the world's security of supply look like? What are its main uses and why is it critical? How is it mined and refined, and are there any particular associated risks? What are the social and environmental impacts that are specifically associated with this mineral (as opposed to impacts broadly associated with all mining)? How easily substitutable is this commodity (given that that constitutes an economic risk to the mine)? Finally, what is the position regarding recyclability? Critical and strategic minerals vary in important ways from one another. The careful practitioner will want to derisk critical and strategic mineral projects in a targeted manner, mindful of the characteristics of the commodity at hand. Thus a rare earths project raises different considerations than a lithium one. Bespoke contracts require insight into the characteristics of critical and strategic minerals, as outlined in the Core Critical and Strategic Minerals Compendium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbitrary disposal of plastic waste into landfills and oceans can disturb the ecological system and even challenge human survival. Centralized plastic recycling process only works for selected types of plastics (e.g., polyethylene) with limited contribution (<10%), because of high infrastructure requirement. Comparatively, photoreforming of plastic waste for commodity and fuels production is much more facile and decentralizable, and thus holds great potential to mitigate the plastic waste challenge. To this end, a fully solar powered photoelectrochemical system is developed to selectively upgrade polyimide waste (often appears in electronic waste) into valuable commodity chemicals, including succinic acid, acetic acid, and formic acid, and cogenerating green hydrogen fuels. It is also demonstrated that one of the key monomer, pyromellitic acid, and the precious metals (in electronic waste) can be fully recycled. This proof‐of‐concept demonstration provides a new viewpoint for designing decentralized photoelectrochemical system for simultaneous plastic waste upcycling and renewable fuel synthesis, critical for a sustainable plastic economy. Selective cleavage of benzene ring also opens a green route for other benzene ring‐containing waste upgrading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using coal gangue as subgrade filler (CGSF) can address the accumulated issues of coal mine waste, but also save the constructing costs, which has the important ecological and engineering practical value. The well-graded limit of CGSF was captured based on the fractal model grading equation (FMGE). The large-scale vibration compaction test (LCT) shows that particle grading has a remarkable influence on the compaction of CGSF, with the increase of fine particle content, the dry density of sample first increases and then decreases. On this basis, the optimal range of particle grading was obtained. A series of large-scale triaxial tests (LTT) were conducted to investigate the mechanical behaviors of CGSF. The results shown that (1) the peak deviatoric stress shows a well-quadratic correlation with the fractal dimension. The optimal grading range of CGSF captured by LTT and LCT is basically the same, hence the suggestion of acquiring the optimal grading through LCT was given. (2) Increasing the compaction degree (DC) can significantly improve the strength of CGSF if DC is smaller, while when DC is greater, the strength improved by increasing DC will not be significant. (3) The grading and DC have a significant impact on the cohesive force of CGSF, while have little effect on internal friction angle. In addition, the research results provide good guidance for the constructing of a highway subgrade in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing countries still lag in transitioning wastewater treatment plants towards resource recovery. This study assessed the challenges hindering and opportunities enabling the implementation of resource recovery from municipal wastewater treatment in Zvishavane town, Zimbabwe using the descriptive case study research design to collect data from selected key informant interviewees. Findings highlighted that resource recovery from Zvishavane's Mabula wastewater treatment plant was at a nascent but dormant stage. Policy, economic, technological factors and lack of expertise were identified as limiting the transition towards resource recovery in Zvishavane. On the other hand, findings indicated that several enabling factors could enable the transition of the Mabula wastewater treatment plant into a resource recovery facility. These included the presence of entrepreneurs working in the resource recovery sector, university-utility collaboration and a vast raw material base. A stakeholder interaction model was developed to create pathways towards resource recovery in Zvishavane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a cost-effective and environment-friendly conversion method to overcome the recalcitrance of biomass is a challenging task for enhancing the value-added potential of lignocellulosic compounds. In this study, a photo-enzyme composite catalyst by immobilizing laccase on Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 (denoted as LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2) was applied to the pretreatment and enzymatic saccharification of Spartina alterniflora Loisel (SAL) under the action of alternating light/dark cycles. The effect of the pretreatment temperature, pretreatment time, LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 concentration, mass concentration of straw particles, and hydrolysis time on delignification efficiency and reducing sugar yield was investigated by a central composite design (CCD). Under the selected conditions (48 ℃, pretreatment time of 70 min, LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 concentration of 4.9 mg/mL, mass concentration of straw particles of 22 % (w/v), hydrolysis time of 55 h), 92.53 % delignification and 129.85 mg/g reducing sugar yield were achieved. The enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency was higher compared to conventional methods. Moreover, the LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 showed good recyclability and reusability. Developed LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 particles have a high potential for use in biomass utilization. [Display omitted] • Laccase-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 integrated catalyst (LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2) is first synthesized. • Effects of LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 on pretreatment and saccharification is studied. • LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 can enhance sugar yield under the alternation of light and dark. • LC-Fe 3 O 4 /TiO 2 could be efficiently reused up to 3 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]