Datasets:

avankumar

/

classification_ACLCA

like 0

A novel complex [Mn(5,5´-dmbipy)2Cl2](4-hba)2 (1) (5,5´-dmbipy=5,5´-dimethyl-2,2´-bipyridine and 4-hba=4-hydroxybenzoic acid) was successfully synthesized using methanol by steam reflux. The complex is characterized using SC-XRD, IR, UV and thermogravimetric analysis. Single crystal X-ray analysis of 1 indicates a distorted octahedral coordinated Mn2+ centre with two molecules of 5,5´-dmbipy and two chlorine ions and the presence of two uncoordinated 4-hba in the complex. The two chlorine atoms (Cl1 and Cl2) form intermolecular H-bonding with 4-hba. The complex crystallizes in monoclinic space group P2 1 /c forming a helical like 1D polymeric supramolecular architech through H- bonding. Presence of halogen-hydrogen bond C(sp2)-OH—Cl-M between uncoordinated -OH and Cl ion in 1 significantly provides a path of extending supramolecular network forming a unique architect of the complex. Interestingly, presence of pyridine-benzene system forming π-π stacking is confirmed from SC-XRD. Hirshfeld surface analysis is carried out to explore the noncovalent interactions in the crystal. Mn3O4 nanoparticles synthesized from complex 1 are characterized using PXRD and HRTEM, and successfully employed as catalyst for the degradation of dyes. Both complex 1 and Mn3O4 nanoparticles show appreciable biological activities.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the challenges hindering the large-scale production of microalgae-based bioplastics, primarily focusing on economic feasibility and bioplastic quality. To address these issues, we explore the potential of microalgae biofilm cultivation as a sustainable and highly viable approach for bioplastic production. We present a proposed method for producing bioplastics using microalgae biofilm and evaluate its environmental impact using various tools such as life cycle analysis (LCA), ecological footprint analysis, resource flow analysis, and resource accounting. While pilot-scale and large-scale LCA data are limited, we utilize alternative indicators such as energy efficiency, carbon footprint, materials management, and community acceptance to predict the environmental implications of commercializing microalgae biofilm-based bioplastics. The findings of this study indicate that utilizing microalgae biofilm for bioplastic production offers significant environmental sustainability benefits. The system exhibits low energy requirements and a minimal carbon footprint. Moreover, it has the potential to address the issue of wastewater by utilizing it as a carbon source, thereby mitigating associated problems. However, it is important to acknowledge certain limitations associated with the method proposed in this review. Further research is needed to explore and engineer precise techniques for manipulating microalgae biofilm structure to optimize the accumulation of desired metabolites. This could involve employing chemical triggers, metabolic engineering, and genetic engineering to achieve the intended goals. In conclusion, this review highlights the potential of microalgae biofilm as a viable and sustainable solution for bioplastic production. While acknowledging the advantages, it also emphasizes the need for continued synthetic studies to enhance the efficiency and reliability of this approach. By addressing the identified drawbacks and maximizing the utilization of advanced techniques, we can further harness the potential of microalgae biofilm in contributing to a more environmentally friendly and economically feasible bioplastic industry.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Racemic N-CBZ-3-fluoropyrrolidine-3-methanol (±)-1 was resolved by preparative chiral HPLC. The absolute configuration of the enantiomers of 1 was identified by vibrational circular dichroism and confirmed by chemical synthesis, which involved exchanging the CBZ protecting group of (−)-1 with Boc, followed by oxidation with RuCl3, NaIO4, activation of the resulting acid with carbonyl diimidazole and reaction with (R)-α-methylbenzylamine to give (R)-tert-butyl 3-fluoro-3-(((R)-1-phenylethyl)carbamoyl) pyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 7. The latter was compared with authentic (S)-tert-butyl 3-fluoro-3-(((R)-1-phenylethyl)carbamoyl)pyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 6 and its diastereomer 7; the configuration of diastereomer 6 was obtained by an X-ray diffraction study. This established that the enantiomer (−)-1 had an (R)-configuration.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Disposable paper cups comprise typical single-use plastic items, as they are lined internally with a thin plastic coating for waterproofing. They are consumed at a staggering rate worldwide, with the UK alone consuming around 7 million cups daily, thus annually producing around 30,000 tonnes of paper cup waste. Contrary to popular belief, less than 1 in 400 paper cups is currently recycled in the UK, which is in stark contrast to the waste hierarchy and the European Commission’s ambitious Circular Economy Action Plan. Paper cups typically end up in landfill sites or even improperly disposed of, contributing to (micro)plastic waste and potentially polluting the world’s oceans. The implications of the latter are not fully known yet and cannot be quantified by existing life cycle impact assessment methods. By employing the life cycle assessment methodology, UK’s annual carbon footprint from paper cup consumption was found to be 75 kt of carbon dioxide equivalents, which is similar to that of manufacturing 11,500 mid-size passenger cars. Globally, their environmental footprint was found to be comparable to that of some 1.5 M average European inhabitants, indicating the nature and extent of the single-use plastics problem, which paper cups are just a typical example of. Paper cup recycling could reduce this environmental footprint by up to 40%, whereas switching to reusable cups appears to be more environmentally sustainable, achieving a threefold reduction in carbon emissions, which at global scale is more than twice Malta’s annual carbon footprint. Results indicate that consumerism along with small daily choices, such as using reusable cups or bags instead of their disposable counterparts, could play a huge role in climate change. At policy level, no concrete measures to curb the superfluous consumption of paper cups, as well as of other single-use plastic items that are becoming increasingly ubiquitous, have materialised. Furthermore, it appears that decision- and policy-makers tend to step in to curtail wasteful and polluting practices only when environmental problems have started to generate widespread concern, instead of undertaking preventative policy measures.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

In this work, the environmental impacts caused by an innovative upcycling process of printed plastic scrap have been assessed through Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) methodology for the first time. The process consists of removing the inks from the plastic surface before extrusion, so that clear high quality pellets are obtained, suitable to be used in high added value applications (such as packaging). The upcycling technology is compared with two traditional waste treatments: conventional recycling (or downcycling) and incineration with energy recovery. Upcycling is considered to be better aligned with Circular Economy principles and its implementation in the industry requires a comprehensive analysis of environmental impacts. Despite the importance of this topic, only a few studies can be found in the literature. Furthermore, the lack of uniformity and consensus in LCA modelling can lead to the conclusion that upcycling causes the biggest environmental burdens. Therefore, downcycling or incineration are shown as preferable options, regardless of the irreversible loss of the plastics’ potential to be recirculated. To avoid this error, we have emphasised the importance of including the market share for recycled products in the LCA modelling and establishing the virgin plastic substitution ratio correctly. Also, we have suggested that in the perspective of the Circular Economy, the energy produced during incineration cannot substitute the energy from fossil fuels.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The dissociation and hydrogenation of CO2 on Cu(100) surfaces that are modified by introducing Co nanoclusters with different size into the top layer have been investigated using density functional theory method. Our results show that on all surfaces the Co atoms are the sites for the adsorption of CO2, and in the early stage of introducing Co dopant, the chemisorption behavior of CO2 is sensitive to the amount of Co atom. According to the predicted pathways for the dissociation of CO2 to CO, it is interesting that the energy barrier decreases first and then increases as more Co atoms are dispersed on the surface, forming a “V” shape. The minimum energy barrier of CO2 decomposition is predicted on the Cu(100) surface that contains four Co atoms aggregated together on the top layer, namely Co4/Cu(100) bimetallic surface. The most favorable reaction pathway for the hydrogenation of CO to methanol on such surface is further determined, which follows the sequence of CO*→HCO*→H2CO*→H3CO*→H3COH*, and the rate-limiting step is the hydrogenation of H3CO species with an activation barrier of 106.4kJ/mol. It is noted that with respect to the pure Cu(100), since more stronger CoO adsorption bonds are formed on the Co-modified surface, the stability of formaldehyde intermediate is significantly enhanced. Correspondingly, the introducing of Co4 cluster tends to improve the productivity and selectivity towards methanol synthesis on Cu(100) surface.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Methanol production from synthesis gas derived from natural gas is assuming increasing importance for chemical production, fuel additives and alternative fuel usage. This review covers process technologies and research and development for improved efficiencies in the catalytic processes for steam reforming of methane to synthesis gas and subsequent methanol production.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

In order to reduce the climate impacts, methanol produced from carbon-neutral methods plays an important role. Due to its oxygen content and high latent heat, methanol combustion can achieve low soot and NOx emissions. In the present study, direct injection (DI) of methanol is investigated in a non-premixed dual-fuel (DF) setup with diesel pilot. The present DF engine study is carried out via a specially-designed new cylinder head operating with a centrally located methanol injector and with an off-centered diesel pilot injector. The target is to inject methanol close to top dead center (TDC) in a similar fashion as in standard diesel combustion enabling robust operation with high efficiency. The ignition of the DI methanol is achieved with an almost simultaneously injected diesel pilot. The experiments were conducted in a single-cylinder heavy-duty research engine at a constant engine speed of 1500 rpm with a compression ratio of 16.5. The indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) varied between 4.2 and 13.8 bar while the methanol substitution ratio was swept between 45 and 95%. In addition, the diesel pilot and methanol injection timings were varied for optimum efficiency and emissions. The introduced non-premixed DF concept using methanol as the main fuel showed robust ignition characteristics, stable combustion, and low CO and HC emissions. The results indicate that increasing both the load and the methanol substitution ratio can increase the thermal efficiency and the stability of combustion (lower COV) together with decreased CO and HC emissions.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Upgrading the capacity of existing wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is hindered by the limited space for extension. This matter is particularly crucial in developing countries where dense urban areas experience unexpectedly growing populations. Herein, we study the capacity upgrading of a WWTP working by a conventional activated sludge (CAS) system from 180,000 m3/d to 240,000 and 300,000 m3/d. The WWTP case study focuses on a large plant in Mansoura, Egypt, requiring capacity upgrades to accommodate population growth. For this purpose, we used mathematical modeling to simulate current and suggested WWTP designs. Moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and integrated fixed film-activated sludge (IFAS) systems were designed to increase the WWTP capacity to 240,000 and 300,000 m3/d by the addition of plastic biofilm carrier to 25% and 50% of the aeration basins, respectively. IFAS outperformed conventional and MBBR systems in terms of BOD, COD, TSS, NH4, TP, and PO4, in addition to increased capacity. We moreover used life cycle assessment (LCA) to comprehend the environmental favorability of upgrading scenarios. The most affected environmental categories are global warming and eutrophication due to the operation stage (especially electricity). Global warming potential for CAS, MBBR, and IFAS (300,000 m3/d) are 2.19, 1.69, and 1.73 kg CO2 eq respectively. Eutrophication potential for CAS, MBBR, and IFAS (300,000 m3/d) are 0.0025, 0.0022, and 0.0017 kg PO4- eq respectively. We also estimated the amortization and running costs for various upgrading scenarios, providing an integrated analysis for decision-making purposes.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The United States generates 42 Mt of plastic waste each year and is one of the biggest contributors to ocean plastic waste. Consequently, plastic has become synonymous with the linear economy, and many scholars are studying and proposing circular economy solutions to mitigate plastic pollution. Recycling has received much attention from both social sciences and engineering as a circular economy strategy, but no study has yet quantified how behavioral interventions could asymmetrically affect different populations. This study combines agent-based modeling, material flow analysis, system dynamics, and life cycle assessment to assess the effect of four behavioral interventions on the collection rates of polyethylene terephthalate bottle waste, displaced virgin plastic manufacturing, and avoided greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Results show that, while behavioral interventions would require about 300–900 GJ of additional energy at end-of-life due to improved collection rates, they would avoid about 500–700 thousand metric tons of GHG emissions. Results also illustrate the importance of habits in disposal behaviors and show that different forms of interventions can be better adapted to particular social contexts than others. While the circular economy and its application to plastic waste should certainly not be restricted to recycling, this study demonstrates that improved collection rates and recycling technologies can contribute to reducing the amount of plastic waste polluting our oceans.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Highly efficient synthesis of zeolites is an important goal given the many catalytic applications of zeolites in industrial chemical processes. The conventional zeolite syntheses, i.e., hydrothermal synthesis in a batch setup are usually challenged by certain limiting factors deriving from the long synthesis period or the low yield. Herein, we report that a combined strategy of organic promoter and zeolite seeding can remarkably improve the synthetic efficiency of high silica SSZ-13 zeolite. The low-cost promoter diethylamine (DEA) and zeolite seeds could both remarkably accelerate the crystallization rate of SSZ-13 zeolite, and DEA has a much higher beneficial effect on the solid yield as compared to the zeolite seeds. Consequently, the crystallization time could be unprecedentedly shorted by a factor of 30, instead of multiple days normally required. Besides, this novel protocol also exhibits high atom efficiency (93% of yield). The resultant high-silica nano-sized SSZ-13 zeolite shows good (hydro)thermal stability along with excellent catalytic performance for the MTO reaction.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

SAPO-46 molecular sieve has been synthesized on a new one-step route by using phosphorous acid (H3PO3) or the mixture of H3PO3 and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as the phosphorus source. It has been found that the pure phase of SAPO-46 could be obtained more conveniently from the H3PO3-containing gels at 200°C. Meanwhile, SAPO-46 with higher crystallinity can be synthesized in a wide range of gel compositions, containing higher silica in the product. As the catalyst for the dehydration of methanol to dimethyl ether (DME), it has exhibited high selectivity for the formation of DME as well as the activity of methanol conversion. Raman and IR have been employed to characterize the initial gel and as-synthesized sample to investigate the formation of SAPO-46 and the one-template-multiple-structures phenomena in the new one-step route, where SAPO-41 or SAPO-46 can be formed according to silica concentration. The transformation of P(III) species in the initial gels to P(V) species during crystallization have been found. It may be the key role for the formation of SAPO-46 on the new route. Besides, the correlation between silica content and the structure type of crystalline products with di-n-propylamine as the template has also been obtained.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Small-sized SAPO-34 was successfully synthesized by using Pluronic F127 nonionic surfactant as growth inhibitor and triethylamine (TEA)/morpholine (Mor) as structure-directing agents (SDA). It was proved that Si distribution and the crystal size changed with the addition of Pluronic F127 in the gel. It was found that the lifetime of the smallest size sample is about four times longer than that of conventional counterparts in the reaction of methanol to olefins (MTO).

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

This chapter presents the idea that there are a range of target plastic products where substitution with biodegradable plastics would be the most effective way to address the issue of plastic solid waste accumulation. These can be determined by considering material flows and identifying the materials most likely to be mismanaged or not practically recyclable (e.g., agricultural films, single-use bags, multilayer materials, linings for cardboard, items likely to be used in events with a large organic waste fraction). However, this view is not shared by all, and the debate surrounding the role of biodegradable plastics in solving plastic solid waste accumulation and assisting the transition toward a circular economy remains unresolved. Thus, in this chapter, both sides of the debate are presented and reviewed, with the conclusion being that biodegradable plastics should be considered as part of the solution. However, their efficacy in providing an environmentally sound solution to solid waste accumulation will depend on the coemergence of affordable waste sorting technology and investments in organic waste handling facilities (compost and anaerobic digestion). Further discussion is raised around a number of important points: 1. That parts of the debate questioning the utility of biodegradable plastics need to be challenged as they revolve around factors which while having some basis are misinformed and/or can be addressed. 2. That although mechanical recycling normally emerges as the superior waste processing option by life cycle analysis, all plastic materials have a limited mechanical recycling lifetime (while some materials are simply nonrecyclable) and therefore materials need to also be chemically or biologically recyclable if a “recycling loop” is truly to be implemented. 3. That there will always be a certain level of leakage of materials to the environment, regardless of the improvement in our collection systems. Biodegradable plastics would help to alleviate the impact of this leakage.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Dimethyl carbonate could be directly synthesized as the unique product from supercritical CO2 and methanol at 305K using nickel acetate as the catalyst. The synthesis was sensitive to the pressure and showed a maximum for DMC yield at 9.3MPa. The concentration of methanol showed an obvious influence on both yield and selectivity of DMC. Ni acetate appeared to be the precursor of the catalyst. The formation mechanism of DMC in supercritical phase was proposed.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

The importance of product sustainability has become increasingly relevant, with several key stakeholders striving to improve the lifecycle environmental footprint of their products in various aspects. This sense of sustainable urgency has also been felt in the cosmetic industry, which contributes significantly to the global plastic manufactured and used worldwide. Design for Recycling and Design for Reuse are two different approaches which can be employed separately or concurrently. When designed for reuse, products are typically more robust in order to increase their probability to be used more than once. If reuse is not possible, it is essential that dematerialisation and recycling are applied. This study assessed the environmental impacts resulting from reusable, recyclable, and dematerialised plastic cosmetic packages, and attempted to answer the primary question: Is it more sustainable to design an extremely durable product that can be reused several times, or to apply dematerialisation but consequently create a less robust product which allows for less reusability potential? Life cycle assessments of different versions were conducted, to identify what features are responsible for such impacts. Findings showed that the positive effect of reusability out ways by far the effects of dematerialisation by 171%, and that removing resourceful materials which render the package to be reusable, resulted in a 74% reduction in environmental impacts only when the packaging materials are fully recycled. This study concludes that in such cases, reuse should be given prominence, as recycling would only depend on the user and the infrastructure in place.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Using biobased plastics has the potential to avoid fossil resource depletion and fossil CO2 emissions. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a fast-growing bio-based plastic made from fermented sugars. Nowadays, PLA is used to replace fossil-based polymers in healthcare and single-use applications, such as for packaging applications. However, PLA offers a much broader application range with the targeted use of a combination of its stereoisomers; PL(L)A and PL(D)A. A variety of these advanced grades of PLA can be used for multiple purposes in durable consumer products such as furniture. Recycling complex, mixed material and advanced grades of PLA is currently limited, as mechanical recycling has limitations in recycling mixed PLA grades. Using a depolymerization technology, products of such advanced grades of PLA can be recycled to form high-quality recycled PLA. A cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment study was executed to evaluate the sustainability of high-end durable product (a rug) with mixtures of PLA grade and the novel depolymerization technology. The findings of the study showed a 70 % reduction in CO2-eq. emissions compared to a conventionally designed rug. However, an increase is indicated in the following environmental impact categories: land use, eutrophication, and environmental toxicity. Sensitivity analyses for collection rates showcased that design for collection and recycling are key to obtaining a more sustainable biobased products. Additionally, scenario analysis supported depolymerization for PLA as recycling technology with low CO2-eq. emissions. Based on the results of the LCA and additional scenario analysis, the use of PLA is encouraged to be used in more durable and lasting products, such as furniture, from an environmental perspective, provided that the products are designed for collection and high-quality recycling to ensure material circularity.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Due to rapidly increasing world population and growing energy demands, the development of cleaner technologies to exploit renewable energy systems has become of primary importance in the collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gases emissions. The chemical conversion of renewable power into synthetic liquid fuels, such as methanol, allows an easier storage and transportation and avoids any fluctuating issues. Alternative process routes for methanol production other than from raw materials derived from fossil fuels have, during the past decade, grown in interest, where valorising the carbon capture and utilization concept and promoting synergies with the oil & gas industry are potentially achieved. The aim of this study is, in this regard, to investigate the sustainability aspects of alternative processes for synthetic methanol synthesis by applying a systematic methodology based on multi-criteria performance indicators (such as technological, economic, environmental and inherent safety). A total of eleven alternative methanol production schemes, based on synthetic methane or carbon dioxide transformation, are considered, analyzed and comparatively evaluated. The present results demonstrate that the process schemes using catalytic hydrogenation of carbon dioxide offers the best performance when considering a methanol capacity of 500 kg/h. A sensitivity analysis based on the Monte Carlo approach is also performed to verify the robustness of the results.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach was used to compare the environmental impacts in the life cycle of two milk packaging systems, PA-PE-Al laminate—a laminated foil made from paper, polyethylene and aluminum foil—and polyethylene. The data for the mass, energy fluxes and environmental emissions were obtained from published literature and from site investigations, for the two systems being analyzed for environmental impacts. The application of LCA using Eco-Indicator 99 has made the comparison of the environmental impacts of the two milk packages possible. The results of this LCA study are discussed and the results reveal that the composite packaging has a slightly higher environmental impact than the plastic one. In addition, the environmental impact of raw material extraction is the highest in all of the life cycle stages except for disposal. The environmental impact of composite packaging mainly comes from the fossil fuels, land use and respiratory inorganics categories, while the plastic packaging mainly comes from the fossil fuels category. However, the composite packaging has a greater environmental impact because it has not been well recycled and reused. This environmental impact could be decreased by developing the technology to separate out polyethylene and aluminum from the packaging.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Increasing concern for sustainability compels citizens and enterprises to reduce waste and encourage recycling, reuse and remanufacturing of end-of-life products. Since packaging is one of the most relevant waste sources, attention to packaging design and management is warranted, especially in sectors where packaging is integral to handling and transportation, i.e. the fresh food supply chain. The analysis of a product′s life cycle highlights potential sources of waste throughout the food supply chain (FSC). This paper proposes an original conceptual framework for the integrated design of a food packaging and distribution network. The framework′s generality supports application to different food manufacturing and distribution supply chains. The paper considers fresh fruit and vegetable flow throughout a food catering chain, from vendors to final customers. The paper compares a multi-use system to traditional single-use packaging (e.g. wooden boxes, disposable plastic crates and cardboard boxes) to quantify the economic returns and environmental impacts of the reusable plastic container (RPC). Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology is used to evaluate the carbon footprint (CF) associated with the life cycle of packages in this distribution network. Sensitivity analysis explores how drivers and parameters (i.e. RPC lifespan, washing rate, waste disposal treatment, network geography) alter the environmental and economic impacts. The paper concludes with implications of the results and suggestions for further investigation.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

AgPt-based tri-metallic electrocatalyst as an emerging electrocatalyst is demonstrated to have superior catalytic performance. However, it still lacks a universal synthesis strategy currently because of the participation of multiple precursors with different electrical reduction potentials, which is greatly limited to developing high-performance electrocatalysts. Here, a universal interface-confined strategy method is developed to transform the starting Ag nanowires into a series of novel AgPtM (M=Ru, Ir, Sn) alloy nanotroughs at water/air interface. Moreover, owing to their unique trough-like structure, rough surface and the electronic synergistic effect between oxyphilic metals and Pt component, the AgPtM (M=Ru, Ir, Sn) alloy nanotroughs all show enhanced electrocatalytic performance for methanol electro-oxidation. Notably, among all the prepared AgPtM (M=Ru, Ir, Sn) catalysts, the AgPtRu exhibits the best mass activity, ∼ 3.7 and ∼1.65 times higher than that of Pt/C and AgPt nanotroughs counterpart, respectively. This study not only develops a new promising electrocatalyst for methanol oxidation, also provides method guidance for the construction of advanced Pt-based tri-metallic electrocatalysts in practical direct alcohol fuel cell.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Size effect of Pt nanoparticle (NPs) on electrocatalysis should be investigated in a wide size range and a narrow distribution. The surfactants used for size control were detrimental to exploring size effect. However, the largest size of Pt colloidal NPs was limited to ∼5 nm without surfactant, which is insufficient for investigating size effect. In this work, surfactant-free Pt colloidal NPs with a wider size range from 1.8 to 10.0 nm were synthesized by controlling the ratio of NaOH and Pt salts in the ethylene glycol by oil-bath heating. Assisted by the precise control of Pt size, the size effect on the electrooxidation of CO, methanol and ethanol was studied, showing that the optimal size varied from the specific catalytic reaction. The synthesis extended the upper limit of large Pt NPs by surfactant-free method, showing potentials in preparing other precious metal NPs with a wide size range.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

One of the main drivers for companies to perform environmental improvements is economic benefit, either by obtaining a more valuable product or gaining new customers. Circular economy combines environmental improvements with these drivers to achieve higher and quicker benefits. This paper is a case study on packaging eco-design aligned with circular economy strategy along the production chain. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was used to identify the product life cycle stages where the application of eco-design strategies would be more efficient (in this case, raw materials production from virgin petrochemicals). To improve the environmental profile of this packaging, virgin petrochemicals were partially replaced by mineral fillers (calcium carbonate based) or/and post-consumer recycled plastics. Different technically compliant cosmetic tubes were produced by collaboration between a company producing the plastic granulates with mineral fillers and a company producing the cosmetic tubes and cradle-to-gate LCA were performed. The replacement of virgin petrochemicals by mineral fillers helped to reduce the environmental impacts by an average of 12% and the use of post-consumer recycled plastic further decreased emissions up to 29% for 6 out of the 9 evaluated impact categories. The option with better environmental performance was also the one with lower economic costs. According to the involved companies, LCA combined with ecodesign helped to achieve efficient environmental and economic savings. The findings are important for the plastic packaging sector because they tackle with prime concerns, like plastic debris, climate change and resource depletion. They are of main interest for industrial activities where brand positioning is a priority (i.e. cosmetics).

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The carbon footprint of food has become important for producers worldwide as consumers and retail companies increasingly base their purchase decisions on carbon footprint labels. In this context, our objectives is to assess the carbon footprint (CF) of Brazilian yellow melon exported from the Low Jaguaribe and Açu region, including an uncertainty assessment, and to evaluate reduction potentials and improvement options. Exporting farms located in this region account for about 99 percent of Brazilian melon exports, mainly to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. To determine the CF, we followed Life Cycle Assessment, according to ISO standards (14040 and 14044). The results are expressed in kg of CO2-eq/t of exported melon. The production system encompasses processes in the Low Jaguaribe and Açu region (such as seedling, plant production, packing, and disposal of solid wastes from farms), upstream processes (including the production and transportation of inputs, such as seeds, plastics, and fertilizers), and downstream processes (melon transport). The total yellow melon CF in the reference situation is 710 kg CO2-eq/t exported melon. However, scenario results indicate that this value can be reduced by 44 percent if melon fields are located in pre-existing agricultural areas, nitrogen fertilization is reduced, and no plastic field trays are used in melon production. GHG emissions from melon transport are relatively unimportant in the total CF. These results provide melon producers with an insight into the CF of their product, and options to reduce it.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The improvement of performance for Pt-based electrocatalysts is of significant importance. Here we synthesized a Ce-modified Pt nanoparticle (NP) with Cerium (III) oxygenated species (1 wt% Ce content) anchored on Pt NPs for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). High-angle annular dark field-scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy were combined to prove and analyze this special structure. Surprisingly, the electrocatalytic activity of the Ce-modified Pt NPs for MOR reached 1470 mA/mg-Pt and 8670 mA/mg-Pt in acidic and alkaline media, respectively, which were superior to those of the Pt NPs/C and commercial Pt/C. Density functional calculations showed that the structure of Pt surface was deformed by the modification of Cerium, which made CO* + OH* bind more strongly, and the stronger anchoring of OH* induced the easier removal of CO* in the potential determining step. This work would provide an effective strategy to develop efficient MOR electrocatalysts.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Recycling of paper and glass from household waste is an integrated part of waste management in Denmark, however, increased recycling is a legislative target. The questions are: how much more can the recycling rate be increased through improvements of collection schemes when organisational and technical limitations are respected, and what will the environmental and economic consequences be? This was investigated in a case study of a municipal waste management system. Five scenarios with alternative collection systems for recyclables (paper, glass, metal and plastic packaging) were assessed by means of a life cycle assessment and an assessment of the municipality’s costs. Kerbside collection would provide the highest recycling rate, 31% compared to 25% in the baseline scenario, but bring schemes with drop-off containers would also be a reasonable solution. Collection of recyclables at recycling centres was not recommendable because the recycling rate would decrease to 20%. In general, the results showed that enhancing recycling and avoiding incineration was recommendable because the environmental performance was improved in several impact categories. The municipal costs for collection and treatment of waste were reduced with increasing recycling, mainly because the high cost for incineration was avoided. However, solutions for mitigation of air pollution caused by increased collection and transport should be sought.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Chemical upcycling of non-biodegradable polymers can shift the current linear plastic economy towards circular patterns. This work studies the environmental impacts of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) upcycling given its extensive use in packaging, textile and automotive industries. A prospective gate-to-gate life cycle assessment is applied to five PET upcycling processes representative of common chemoselective depolymerization strategies. Laboratory-scale upcycling is scaled-up for processes depolymerizing 1 kg of post-consumer PET. With a global warming potential from 4.3 to 5.8 kg·CO2 equiv. per kg of upcycled postconsumer PET, Glycolysis-PG using propylene glycol and a manganese acetate catalyst, Aminolysis and Hydrogenolysis processes bear the lowest global warming potential. On the contrary, the Glycolysis-EG process that uses ethylene glycol (EG) and a protic ionic salt catalyst has the largest global warming potential of 91.3 kg·CO2 equiv. per kilo of PET. These differences are driven by variabilities in the energy and solvent consumption, and the presence of catalysts. Two sensitivity analyses focused on EG recirculation and ethylene carbonate production are performed to explore environmentally friendlier processes. Overall, this work highlights the environmental hotspots during postconsumer PET upcycling, guiding the implementation of sustainable approaches in polymer recycling.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The present study focuses on the cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) of a reusable takeaway food container. The system boundary includes the production, transport, use, and end of life (EoL) stages of container, considering recycling and incineration, including all the inputs (material and energy) and outputs (emissions). Scenarios (10, 30, and 100 uses of a reusable container with EoL) were proposed and compared with a single-use container. The primary data was collected from industry and secondary data was taken from the literature and the Ecoienven 3.9.1 database. The functional unit (FU) was “one use of a container”, and the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint (H) method was used. The results showed that with a centralised collection and washing system, the global warming potential (GWP) for a single-use container (0.020 kg CO2 eq./FU) per FU had higher GWP than 10 uses (0.015 kg CO2 eq./FU), 30 uses and 100 uses (0.007 kg CO2 eq./FU) of the reusable container (EoL recycling). The GWP of a single-use container is 1.3 times higher than 10 uses of the container which results in a minimum six uses of the reusable container, providing a benefit over single-use container (EoL recycling). In EoL incineration, 10 uses scenario led to a decrease in the GWP of 46%, while 100 uses resulted in a significant reduction in the GWP of 83% compared to single-use per FU. It was found that the efficiency of the return system for empty containers significantly influenced the results. This study also quantified potential plastic waste for various scenarios.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Plastic packaging brings safety, hygiene, and comfort to the consumers; however, they also bring a massive problem to the society and to the environment – plastic waste streams. Approximately only one-third of plastic waste is transformed into new recycled goods whereas the rest is incinerated, sent to landfills or, end up in the environment. Therefore, proper management of plastic waste streams has great importance from social, political, and environmental perspectives. Recycling is promoted among the solid waste hierarchy as the most preferred option after waste prevention and reduction. However, only a holistic approach can reveal the advantages, the disadvantages and the hotspots of the waste management structures. Life cycle assessment is a powerful method to understand the environmental impacts of recycling routes. Reaching the end of use and leaving the households, plastic waste undergoes a serial of processes until the recycling facilities. These pre-treatment steps are characterized by a high variability due to technological factors such as collection and sorting scenarios, and spatial factors such as the distance driven by the waste trucks or the electricity mix. This paper investigates (i) the possible advantages of bring point collection compared to door-to-door collection system and (ii) the influence of relevant regional issues. The overarching goal of the study is setting the boundaries to secure an environmentally meaningful chemical recycling process and to quantify the environmental impacts related to the background systems. A comparative LCA is performed to evaluate both systems and subsequently, the influence of regional varying elements is tested through sensitivity analysis. These analyses include different scenarios where the collection, transport and sorting practices are at the scope. The results reveal the advantages of source separation and the importance of regional aspects in LCA modeling.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

CaO–ZrO2 catalysts were prepared by coprecipitation and their catalytic performances were evaluated in the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from propylene carbonate and methanol. The characterization by XRD, N2 adsorption, XPS and CO2–TPD indicated that Ca2+ ion substituted for Zr4+ ions in the host lattice to form homogeneous CaO–ZrO2 solid solution when Ca/(Ca+Zr) ratio changed from 0.1 to 0.3, and CaO segregated at grain boundaries with Ca/(Ca+Zr) ratio from 0.4 to 0.5. As a result, the catalysts showed different activity and stability towards the transesterification of propylene carbonate and methanol into dimethyl carbonate. The activity of catalysts was improved with increase in Ca content, whereas high stability was shown with Ca/(Ca+Zr) ratio below 0.3. The formation of homogeneous CaO–ZrO2 solid solution was responsible for the stability of catalysts.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

Plastic production has increased over the years and the packaging industry was responsible for 44% of the total plastic production. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), due to its favorable properties, is one of the most used polymers in this sector. This study first aimed to compare the environmental performance related to the production of a novel recycled PET (rPET) form, namely, rPET flake, and then compare it with the production of virgin PET (vPET) and rPET pellet. Secondly, this study aimed to compare the environmental impacts of four water bottles with different compositions, namely, option A composed with only vPET, option B made with 50% vPET and 50% rPET pellet, option C made with 75% rPET pellet and 25% rPET flake, and option D made with 50% vPET, 25% rPET pellet and 25% rPET flake. Option A was designed as a single-use water bottle, while the remaining options (Options B, C and D) were thought to be reusable bottles, and for that reason were heavier and more robust compared to Option A. The environmental impact assessment followed the International Standard Rules of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and the impact assessment method used was the Environmental Product Declaration. Ecoibéria and Logoplaste provided the majority of the required data, and three functional units were considered. The first one was the production of 1 kg of PET, the second was the production of different water bottles, and finally, the third one was the consumption of 2 l of water with different water bottles. As a result, it was first observed that the production of rPET flake in comparison to vPET reduces, on average, 79% of the impacts, and rPET pellet reduces 10% of the impacts. Secondly, in the production of the different water bottles, Option A, the single-use bottle, presented the lowest environmental impacts in almost all categories. Finally, when taking into account the reusable factor, the use of single-use bottles presented the higher environmental impact in all categories, probably because of the dilution of the environmental impacts associated with the production of heavier and robust reusable bottles by the multiple times of uses of these bottles.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

The gargantuan escalation in the myriad of plastic waste in emerging and developing countries has led to the augmented atrocities concerning the environmental impact and health disquietude due to their ubiquitous nature. Burgeoning in the conversion of plastic waste into energy is a captivating strategy to circumvent the power generation shortages, greenhouse gas emissions, restricted space for landfilling, and can unravel the emanation of plastic waste disposal. Indeed, this transformation sporadically enunciated as a magic bullet to address all impediments created by plastics in municipal solid waste. Plastic waste recycling has empirical significance and commercial worth for recuperation of resources and environmental welfare but to attain sustainable development, emphasis on the metamorphosis of waste into energy by employing greener technologies should be implemented. Howbeit, the prolegomenon of plastic waste to energy innovation is usually jeopardized by recurrent deterrents like operation costs, fund investments, environmental laws, etc. In this contrivance, assessment and fate of plastic waste to energy has been addressed to harmonize the nuisance originated by prevailing plastic wastes. The design and fabrication of technology implemented to transform plastic waste into energy have been inscribed by demarcating challenges and hindrances with their life cycle assessment process. Novel integrated energy plants employing renewable sources such as solar cells for revamping plastic trash are discussed aiming to motivate communities to recycle and reuse the waste in a sustainable way. Circuit based simulation model proffers an estimation of the electrical behaviour of renewable energy integrated systems with respect to alterations in environmental parameters including temperature and irradiation. This robust overview also unfurls the bottlenecks in the valorization of plastic waste into energy with bestowing potential panacea towards a better sustainable society.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

A material flow analysis of the main plastic types used and arising as waste in Switzerland in 2017 is conducted, including consideration of stock change. Seven main plastic application segments are distinguished (packaging; building and construction; automotive; electrical and electronic equipment; agriculture; household items, furniture, leisure and others; and textiles), further divided into 54 product subsegments. For each segment, the most commonly used plastic types are considered, in total including eleven plastic types (HDPE, LDPE, PP, PET, PS, PVC, ABS, HIPS, PA, PC, and PUR). All product life cycle stages are regarded, including the determination of the product subsegments in which the individual post-consumer secondary materials obtained from mechanical recycling are applied. The underlying data are gathered from official statistics and administrative databases, scientific literature, reports by industry organizations and research institutions, websites, and personal communication with stakeholders. The compiled data are then reconciled. All flow data are provided and depicted in two Sankey diagrams: one diagram shows the material flows on a product-subsegment level and the second one on a plastic-type level. Users may retrieve the data with a script and transfer them into a relational database. The present material flow analysis data are used as a basis for the scenario analysis in Klotz et al. [1]. Besides scenario modelling, the data can be used in conducting life cycle assessments. Both utilizations can serve as a support for designing future plastic flow systems.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

Plastic packaging recycling has gained momentum as it can improve the circularity of this typical linear product. However, reuse ranks as a preferred strategy over recycling because product reuse can reduce material usage compared to product recycling and keeps material value higher for a longer time. Such reusable plastic packaging requires, besides a more robust product design, an additional return system. It is crucial to minimize the impact of this product system and ensure that reusable plastic packaging is not only more circular, but also more environmentally friendly than its single-use alternative. For this purpose, understanding the factors contributing to its environmental impact is key. In this paper, a new design of reusable packaging for two kilogram rice is compared with a conventional fully-optimized single-use packaging using a prospective extended life cycle assessment, including a circularity (using material flow analysis and specific circularity indicators, among which the Material Circularity Index), environmental impact (using a life cycle assessment with 16 midpoint indicators) and packaging-related food losses and waste assessment (using the food-to-packaging ratios). On average, the reusable rice packaging could be reused five times, due to losses at the distribution, use, and reuse preparation phase. While the reusable packaging scores better on the circularity indicators (a Material Circularity Index of 91 %, compared with 39 % for single-use packaging), its global warming and fossil resource depletion impact are respectively two and three times higher, considering a functional unit of one kilogram cooked rice to be consumed. The reusability and return rate, providing the retention of reusable packaging at the reuse preparation and use phase, respectively, were identified as the most determinative parameters by the sensitivity analysis. If these parameters could be optimized to a value of 99.75 %, corresponding to a total of 16 uses, the climate change impact of reusable packaging would be lower than its conventional single-use counterpart. The high food-to-packaging ratios (more than 18 for all impact categories) point to the importance of reducing food waste. If the packaging design could reduce food losses in the product system with 0.2 %, the reusable packaged rice would have a lower water use and mineral and metal resource use impact compared to the single-use packaged rice, despite the higher environmental impact of the reusable packaging unit itself. Therefore, this should be prioritized when further optimizing the reusable packaging design.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant

A series of Zr,Al-pillared interlayered clays (Zr,Al-PILCs) have been prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, FT-IR and N2-adsorption/desorption analyses, 27Al NMR(MAS), FT-IR spectroscopy using pyridine, PhCN and CDCl3 as probe molecules. It was found that textural and physicochemical properties of Zr,Al-PILCs depend on Zr content in clay. The relationship between the acid–base properties and catalytic performances of Zr,Al-PILCs was revealed in the synthesis of propylene glycol methyl ether from methanol and propylene oxide. The results show that the conversion of propylene oxide and the selectivity to 1-methoxy-2-propanol decrease with increasing the amount of zirconium in Zr,Al-PILCs due to the change in acid–base properties.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

non-relevant

In this study, we analysed the environmental profile of the strawberry industry in Northern Italy. The analysis was conducted using two scenarios as reference systems: strawberry crops grown in unheated plastic tunnels using currently existing cultivation techniques, post-harvest management practices and consumption patterns (scenario 1) and the same strawberry cultivation chain in which some of the materials used were replaced with bio-based materials (scenario 2). In numerous studies, biodegradable polymers have been shown to be environmentally friendly, thus potentially reducing environmental impacts. These materials can be recycled into carbon dioxide and water through composting. Many materials, such as Mater-BI® and PLA®, are also derived from renewable resources. The methodology chosen for the environmental analysis was a life cycle assessment (LCA) based on a consequential approach developed to assess a product's overall environmental impact from the production system to its usage and disposal. In the field stage, a traditional mulching film (non-biodegradable) could be replaced with a biodegradable product. This change would result in waste production of 0kg/ha for the bio-based product compared to 260kg/ha of waste for polyethylene (PE). In the post-harvest stage, the issue addressed was the use and disposal of packaging materials. The innovative scenario evaluated herein pertains to the use of new packaging materials that increase the shelf life of strawberries, thereby decreasing product losses while increasing waste management efficiency at the level of a distribution platform and/or sales outlet. In the event of product deterioration or non-sale of the product, the packaging and its contents could be collected together as organic waste without any additional processes because the packaging is compostable according to EN13432. Scenario 2 would achieve reductions of 20% in the global warming potential and non-renewable energy impact categories.

Categorize the text article into one of the two categories: relevant non-relevant

relevant