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Environmental progress
American Institute of Chemical Engineers
Environmental progress

American Institute of Chemical Engineers

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0278-4491

Environmental progress/Journal Environmental progressSCIISTP
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    Revisiting heterogeneity in the relationship between CO2 per capita emissions and income per capita

    Pinar DenizThanasis Stengos
    1.1-1.14页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract This study applies various methods to deal with sources of potential misspecification in the drivers of CO2 per capita emissions within an environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) framework. The proposed methodologies are as follows: (i) Bayesian model averaging analysis as a remedy for omitted variable bias due to model uncertainty, (ii) convergence club analysis to endogenously classify a large size of panel of countries as a remedy for unobserved heterogeneity, (iii) inclusion of lagged regressors as a remedy for simultaneity. The empirical findings show that the EKC is holding for all except for the first group with the highest (or fastest) long‐term income trajectories. Moreover, one observes a clear negative impact of renewable energy consumption, a general positive impact of financial development, and no impact of institutions on emissions. Finally, the findings highlight the importance of constructing homogeneous country clusters.

    Examining how environmental policy stringency, geopolitical risks, technological innovation, and renewable energy contribute to achieving sustainable development goals 7 and 13 policies in MINT countries

    Qiao ZengChao HeBabatunde Sunday EweadeAbraham Ayobamiji Awosusi...
    1.1-1.13页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Climate change poses a significant threat to the global economy, environment, and human well‐being, putting their long‐term sustainability at risk. Based on this fact, the study investigates the heterogeneous effect of renewable energy consumption, environmental‐related technologies, technological innovation, environmental policy stringency, and geopolitical risk on carbon emissions in MINT countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Turkey) from 1990 to 2020. The study employs econometric techniques such as Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares, Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares, Canonical Cointegration Regression, Feasible Generalized Least Squares, and Method of Moment Quantile Regression approaches to evaluate data attributes. The findings of MMQR demonstrate that renewable energy consumption and environmental policy stringency initially show a positive relationship with CO2 emissions across various quantiles. Environmental‐related technologies, geopolitical risk, and technological innovation demonstrate a consistently negative impact on CO2 emissions. The causality tests indicate a bidirectional association among the variables. Based on the above results, policymakers should enhance funding for research and development in green technologies tailored to the specific needs of MINT countries and should align their national policies with relevant United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 7, 9, and 13.

    Optimizing rooftop photovoltaic adoption in urban landscapes: A system dynamics approach for sustainable energy transitions in Chennai, India

    R. Kaaviya
    1.1-1.14页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Chennai, a rapidly growing metropolitan city in India, faces increasing energy needs, sustainability challenges, and environmental impacts due to population growth. The surge in electricity demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors has heightened greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on non‐renewable energy sources, sparking interest in rooftop PV systems. These systems harness solar energy to generate electricity locally, reducing grid strain and carbon emissions, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 7 and 11 by promoting clean energy and sustainable urban environments. Despite their potential, rooftop PV adoption in Chennai's building sector has been slow due to various barriers. Addressing escalating energy demands and environmental concerns, this study develops a data‐driven System Dynamics Model to simulate the dynamics of rooftop PV scaling. The model considers socio‐economic, regulatory, and technical factors, including market analysis, regulatory assessments, techno‐economic feasibility evaluations, and public perception surveys. The System Dynamics Model allows for scenario analysis and predictive modeling, outlining strategic interventions, policy recommendations, and measures to streamline regulations and improve financing accessibility. This approach combines data‐driven analysis, scenario testing, adaptability, and transparency, offering a robust method for developing a roadmap for rooftop PV scale‐up in Chennai's building sector. The paper highlights the advantages of this method, enhancing the effectiveness and likelihood of successful rooftop PV adoption compared to alternatives. This study aims to serve as a progressive model for cities globally, demonstrating the efficacy of a systematic, data‐driven approach to advancing sustainable energy transitions in urban landscapes.

    Sustainable briquette production from jujube seed shells: Process optimization using response surface methodology

    Adesanya Samuel AbayomiKuhe AondoyilaIbrahim Jacob SundayNdah Abdulrahman Alpha...
    1.1-1.19页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract This study explores the optimization of binder‐free briquette production from jujube seed shells, an underutilized biomass resource in Nigeria, using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The influence of key process variables—particle size, pre‐heat temperature, and compaction pressure—on the mechanical and thermal properties of the briquettes was assessed. RSM results indicated that fine particle sizes (<0.6 mm), combined with pre‐heat temperatures between 65 and 75°C and compaction pressures up to 100 MPa, yielded briquettes with optimal characteristics: a maximum density of 2108 kg/m3, compressive strength of 22.81 MPa, and a shatter index exceeding 98%. The briquettes showed excellent durability, with minimal relaxed density loss (1.95%) over 56 days. Thermal analysis revealed high energy content, with calorific values ranging from 6317 to 6495 kcal/kg (26.45–27.19 MJ/kg), low ash content (1.51%–1.68%), and significant fixed carbon (17.29%–18.39%). The optimization process underscored the effectiveness of natural lignin as an internal binder, eliminating the need for external binders. These findings offer a sustainable, cost‐effective, and eco‐friendly alternative to traditional fuels, with promising potential for rural energy solutions in West Africa.

    Analysis of the factors influencing the performance of medium‐shallow borehole heat exchangers coupled with a ground source heat pump system

    Naifeng HanQiang ZhaoTishi HuangFeng Huang...
    1.1-1.14页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Medium‐shallow borehole heat exchangers (BHEs) offer high heat exchange efficiency and low initial investment, which is of great significance for achieving carbon emission reduction goals. Therefore, this paper establishes a heat transfer model for medium‐shallow BHEs and uses this model to analyze the impact of six factors on the heat transfer capacity of BHEs, including geotechnical properties, backfill material properties, and borehole characteristics. Additionally, the factors influencing the performance of ground source heat pump systems were analyzed. The results indicate that higher soil thermal conductivity, soil specific heat capacity, and backfill material thermal conductivity can enhance the heat exchange capacity of BHEs. Specifically, when the soil thermal conductivity increases from 1.5 to 3.5 W/(m·°C), the heat extraction increases from 17 to 19.68 kW, an improvement of 15.76%, and the heat dissipation increases from 10 to 21.4 kW, an improvement of 114%. When the thermal conductivity of the backfill material increases from 0.5 to 2.5 W/(m·°C), the heat extraction increases from 13.66 to 20.13 kW, an improvement of 47.36%, and the heat dissipation increases from 11.28 to 19.57 kW, an improvement of 73.49%. The heat extraction capacity of the borehole is significantly affected by the borehole depth; when the depth increases from 150 to 550 m, the heat extraction increases from 6.26 to 36.93 kW, an improvement of 489%, and the heat dissipation increases from 8.85 to 19.91 kW, an improvement of 124%.

    Experimental investigation on the impact of ammonia fuel in a low‐powered CI engine – A study toward dual fuel engine approach

    K. K. HariNataraj Ganesan
    1.1-1.24页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract This study aims to operate a CRDI‐equipped single‐cylinder CI engine in a dual fuel mode with pilot‐ignited WCB fuel and port‐injected NH3 fuel. The current study experimentally investigates the influence of various AEFs on performance, combustion, and pollutant emissions of dual fuel engine at peak load (4.14 bar BMEP @ 1500 rpm) conditions with constant speed. The obtained results showed that the AEF was limited due to its inherent combustion properties. Under the aforementioned operating conditions, we achieved a maximum of 44.89% of AEF. The NH3 dual fuel engine achieves a maximum BTE of 29.33%. Moreover, in the dual fuel operation, the combustion switches from the diffusion phase with WCB operation to the rapid controlled phase as the AEF increases. The ICT reduces from 1488 to 1443 K when the AEF increases from 0% to 44.89%, respectively. Although NH3 injection notably decreased the CO2, HC, CO, and smoke emissions by 57.14%, 60.26%, 71.42%, and 67.59%, NOx emissions increased by 16.21% compared with WCB operation. The BSEC of the dual‐fuel mode engine is 13.07 MJ/kW‐hr, which is slightly higher than the biodiesel operation mode, 12.17 MJ/kW‐hr. The maximum ICP, HRR, and ID were increased by 2.6 bar, 4.64 J/deg., and 5 CAD, and CD and combustion phasing were reduced by 9.3 CAD and 7.98 CAD, respectively. However, the turbulence within the cylinder fluctuates significantly, with a COV of IMEP reaching 5.23% at an AEF of 44.89%.

    Evaluation of the preservative efficacy of green‐synthesized ZnO Nanoparticles using Cucumis sativus in cream formulations

    Sanaya YousafAnam AshrafShaista AliAkasha Rafiq...
    1.1-1.14页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Due to concerns about the safety of preservatives in cosmetic formulations, there is an urgent need to explore eco‐friendly alternatives that do not pose a risk to consumers. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are promising preservatives for pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. In this study, ZnO NPs were synthesized using Cucumis sativus (cucumber) extract as a stabilizing agent and zinc acetate dihydrate as a precursor. Polyphenols, terpenoids, and flavonoids in cucumber extract act as capping agents and facilitate the reduction of metal ions to form ZnO NPs. Synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized using various techniques, including powder x‐ray diffraction, x‐ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, photoluminescence and spectroscopy UV–Vis. The effectiveness of ZnO NPs as a preservative in cream formulation was evaluated along with their antioxidant and antibacterial properties against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. This study introduces a new green synthesis method to produce ZnO NPs using C. sativus extract. This eco‐friendly and cost‐effective approach is a sustainable alternative for nanoparticle synthesis. It is worth noting that this is the first time that zinc oxide nanoparticles are used as a natural preservative in a moisturizing cream formulation. The resulting cosmetic formulation represents a unique advancement in cosmetic science that meets consumer demands for safe and eco‐friendly skin care products while utilizing the preservative properties of ZnO NPs. This research has significant potential to change the cosmetics industry by providing natural and sustainable alternatives to traditional preservatives.

    Study on the energy efficiency of straw fly ash concrete walls in rural residential buildings

    Zhiyong GuoDzhedzhula Viacheslav
    1.1-1.14页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract In order to efficiently utilize agricultural and industrial wastes, and to achieve both resource recycling and building energy efficiency, this study incorporated different dosages of fly ash (10%, 20%, and 30%) and straw (4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) into ordinary concrete(OC) materials, and the straw was selected from corn straw powder (CSP), corn straw strips (CSS), wheat straw powder (WSP), and wheat straw strips (WSS) which were commonly found in rural areas. The compressive strength of the concrete was tested using the experimental platform, the moisture content and thermal conductivity of the concrete were tested at different air humidity levels (0%, 38.2%, 54.0%, 75.4%, and 97.4%), the functional relationship between straw fly ash admixture and the compressive strength and thermal conductivity of the concrete was investigated, and the energy efficiency of the wheat straw flour concrete walls using F20S6 (20% fly ash and 6% straw) was analyzed. The study reveals that although the incorporation of straw and fly ash makes the concrete strength weaken with the increase of the proportion, the concrete with F20S6 dosage still meets the strength requirements of the wall. Meanwhile, the thermal conductivity decreased with the increase of admixture but increased with the increase of humidity. Applied to rural dwellings, straw fly ash concrete(SFC)walls showed significant energy‐saving advantages.

    New insights into the impact of ribavirin on enhanced biological phosphorus removal process efficiency

    Huan GuoYueqin Zhao
    1.1-1.8页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Ribavirin (RBV) is a quintessential antiviral medication frequently detected in wastewater. However, the impact of RBV on the biological treatment of wastewater has rarely been reported to date. This study investigates the influence of RBV on the enhanced biological phosphorus removal process by controlling the influent RBV concentration and elucidates the underlying mechanisms. The results indicated that low concentrations of ribavirin (below 0.05 mg/L) did not significantly affect the EBPR efficiency, while concentrations exceeding 0.1 mg/L significantly reduced the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and soluble orthophosphate, with higher exposure concentrations leading to poorer EBPR performance. High concentrations of RBV decreased the concentration of organic matter in the sludge and its settleability. At an RBV concentration of 2.0 mg/L, the sludge volume index increased, but the volatile suspended solids concentration decreased to 3.25 ~ 3.41 g/L. Exposure to RBV increased the content of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), with higher exposure concentrations leading to a more significant increase in EPS content, notably in the content of protein. RBV reduced the specific oxygen uptake rate of microorganisms, with higher exposure amounts resulting in a more pronounced decrease in specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR). RBV also promoted the release of reactive oxygen species and lactate dehydrogenase, reducing microbial metabolic activity.

    Investigation of energy potential and chemical constituents of khat (Catha edulis f.) cultivar waste in Ethiopia

    Shumete Metaferia FeruSamson Sahile SalileAlfoalem Araba AbiyeAraya Asfaw...
    1.1-1.11页
    查看更多>>摘要:Abstract Agriculture generates significant amounts of waste, including waste from khat crops in Ethiopia. This study was conducted to investigate the energy potential and chemical compounds of khat variety wastes from different regions of Ethiopia. The properties studied include moisture content (weight basis), bulk density, dry density, calorific value, proximate and ultimate analysis, and screening of chemical compounds using the method GC–MS. In the GC–MS analysis, 23 compounds were identified in the n‐hexane extract oil, accounting for 100% of the total. The solid fuel potential of the waste of selected khat varieties of different agroecological origins, namely Gurage, Gelemso, Wondo, and Bahir Dar khat waste, was investigated. The results showed that moisture content (weight basis) ranged from 64.5% to 74.3%, calorific value ranged from 17.88 to 20.78 MJ/kg, moisture content (dry basis) ranged from 8.71% to 9.28%, ash content ranged from 3.33 to 5.05%, volatile content between 62.39% and 68.40%, solid carbon content between 19.56% and 23.73%, sulfur content between 0.17% and 0.21%, and dry density between 550 and 650 kg/m3.