bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobalt- and copper-modified coal fly ash nanozeolites for environmental protection applications
Authors: Boycheva Silviya , Marinov Ivan , Lazarova Hristina , Zgureva Denitza , Václavíková Miroslava , Popova Margarita
Published: November 2022

Fly ash zeolites (FAZ) are promising materials for adsorbents, ion-exchangers and catalysts. FAZ usually possess a mixed micro-mesoporous structure that facilitates mass transport phenomena through their framework. Due to the transfer of iron spinel oxides and many metal species from the raw material, their catalytic and adsorption ability can be improved further by modifying them with metal oxide nanoparticles. In the present study, copper- (Cu-FAZ) and cobalt-modified (Co-FAZ) FAZ were prepared by incipient wetness impregnation technique, the loading of 6 wt. % copper or cobalt in the zeolite framework was achieved. Cu-FAZ and Co-FAZ were investigated by X-ray diffraction to clarify the state of Cu and Co into the FAZ matrix, while surface studies by nitrogen adsorption/desorption technique were carried out to trace the effect of modification on the FAZ surface characteristics. Modified and parent FAZ were investigated as adsorbents and catalyst for decontamination of water and gases from organic pollutants. The simultaneous presence of Fe2+/Fe3+ and Cu2+/Fe3+ or Co2+/Fe3+ species in the modified FAZ stipulates easier oxygen release essential for organic degradation. The favorable combination of morphological and compositional peculiarities of modified FAZ contributes to their effective organic removal performance.

Acknowledgements
This work was financially supported by the National Science Funds, Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria under contract DN 17/18 and under Grant DNTS Slovak Republic 01/6.
Removal of Cr(VI) under flow conditions using a green nano-iron loaded resin
Authors: Toli Aikaterini , Mystrioti Christiana , Xenidis Anthimos , Papassiopi Nymphodora
Published: November 2022

A new nanocomposite material, consisting of nanoiron incorporated in cationic resin beads, was evaluated for the removal of Cr(VI) under flow conditions, by conducting column experiments. An aqueous solution containing Cr(VI) 5 mg/L and NaCl 0.01 M as inert electrolyte was introduced in the column applying a continuous up-flow mode. The tests were carried out using a column with diameter 2.6 cm and the flowrate was stepwise increased, reducing the Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT) from 38 to 2.3 minutes. The reduction of Cr(VI) was found to depend on the residence time of the solution inside the bed of R-nFe, and the pH of flowing solution. The column has treated an amount of solution equivalent to 640 bed volumes without appearance of the Cr(VI) breakthrough. Also, when the feeding solution was spiked with both Cr(VI) and Ni, the effluents were free from the two elements, indicating that the nanocomposite material can be equally efficient in the case of mixed contamination.
Experimental approach for metabolic disorders as a tool to investigate impact of environment on reproductive health
Authors: Pavlova E. , Lakova E. , Vladov I. , Zapryanova S. , Gluhcheva Y , Ivanov I. , Svechnikov K. , Atanassova N.
Published: November 2022

The epidemics of obesity and diabetes have occurred contemporaneously with increasing use and exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals. Metabolic disorders affect male reproductive potential due to low sperm count and quality, reduced sperm motility and suppression of testosterone production. In this respect our study aimed to evaluate testiscular cell populations and steroidogenic function in tandem with expression of cell marker tACE (testiscular angiotensin converting enzyme) for delayed germ cell development in experimental conditions of diabetes mellitus (DM) induced on day 1 (neonatally, NDM) or day 10 (prepubertally, PDM) in rats; short and long high-fat diet (HFD) induced obesity in rats since puberty. Our data indicate that metabolic disorders (DM and HFD) affected macro-parameters (decreased gonado-somatic index, increased fat accumulation). Long-term obesity negatively influenced Leydig cell number and testosterone production. Expression of tACE in postmeiotic germ cells showed that prepubertal DM but not neonatal DM caused delay in the first spermatogenesis associated with suppressed Leydig cell development and steroidogenesis in adulthood.
Our data indicate that metabolic syndrome involving obesity and diabetes exert negative impact on male reproductive development and function and therefore environmental aspects of endocrine disorders should be considered as a risk factor for male reproductive health.
Influence of the Environmental Factors on Contamination of Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis)
Authors: Henigman U. , Biasizzo M. , Vadnjal S. , Knific T. , Kirbiš A.
Published: November 2022

Harvesting areas in Slovenia are monitored for contamination with E. coli as pollution indicator bacteria. According to contamination levels, areas are classified into A, B or C category. An A category means that there is less than 700 E. coli MPN/100 g of the shellfish flesh and intervalvular fluid. Mussels from the areas with the established A category are placed on the market directly, whereas shellfish from areas classified as B or C category undergo a depurating process. The aim of our research was to gain detailed insight into the contamination with E. coli as well as with some other microorganisms and heavy metals. We also took into account possible factors affecting the contamination of seawater and shellfish (e.g. marine currents, rainfall, tides). During a one-year period 34 samplings at three shellfish harvesting areas and one wild area were carried out (306 samples). Higher levels of contamination were observed in colder parts of the year (spring, winter) and at the time of heavy rainfalls. Correlation between E. coli number in mussels and enterococci in seawater was statistically significant. To ensure safety of the mussels it is therefore important to carry out increased number of samplings at critical periods of the year.
Synthesis of kaolin supported nZVI and evaluation for the removal of Cr(VI) and Ni from waste streams
Authors: Toli Aikaterini , Mystrioti Christiana , Della Angeliki , Thymi Sofia , Papassiopi Nymphodora
Published: November 2022

This study involved the synthesis of kaolin-supported nano zero valent iron (K-nZVI) and the evaluation of its performance for the removal of chromates and nickel from contaminated waters. K-nZVI was prepared by mixing a kaolin sample with a FeCl3 solution, followed by the addition of sodium borohydride for the reduction of Fe(III) to the zero valent state. The effectiveness of kaolin supported nZVI for Cr(VI) and Ni removal was evaluated by conducting batch experiments. The investigated parameters included the amount of K-nZVI per solution volume, the concentration of contaminants and the effect of pH. K-nZVI was found to be more efficient for the treatment of Cr(VI) contaminated waters than for the removal of Ni. Using 1 gram of K-nZVI per liter of solution, it was possible to reduce 20 mg/L of Cr(VI) to less than 5 mg/L within 3 hours. Starting with the same concentration of Ni, i.e.20 mg/L, the final concentration after 3 hours was aproximately 17 mg/L at pH 5.6, and dropped to 10 mg/L when the pH of the suspension was regulated to the value of 7.5. The results suggest the K-nZVI has a rather limited efficiency for Ni removal.
Cobalt and Phosphorous Recovery from Semiconductor Wastewater through Homogeneous Crystallization of Cobalt Phosphate in a Fluidized-bed Reactor
Authors: Lu Ming-Chun , Bayon Lester Lee , Ballesteros Jr. Florencio , Segura-Garcia Sergi
Published: November 2022

Semiconductor manufacturing involves distinct processes that generate complex wastewater streams that require treatment before it proceeds to the main wastewater effluents. The present study utilized fluidized-bed crystallization to recover resources from the combined synthetic wastewater of chemical-mechanical polishing and etching processes. The study aims to determine the operational conditions to achieve optimum recovery and removal. Maximum removal and granulation of ~99.0% and 96.07% were realized at pHi range of 7.75 – 8.0 and [PO43-]/[Co2+] ratio of 2.0, respectively. Phosphate concentration in etching stream was reduced from 14.0 mM to [PO43-]d of 1.02 mM at optimal conditions. Uniform crystal size of 0.7 mm dimater was attained at hydraulic rentention time of 15 min, upflow velocity 34.38 – 40.11 m h-1 and surface loadings of 1.18 kg Co2+ m-2 h-1. The granules recovered were cobalt phosphate octahydrate mineral Co3(PO4)2.8H2O as main products as analyzed through XRD analysis. Moreover, SEM-EDS analysis showed ~34.0% Co, ~21.0% P and ~45.0% O having a petal-like structure.
Rapid bacteria detection in drinking water samples with on-chip Mach-Zehnder Interferometers
Authors: Angelopoulou Michailia , Petrou Panagiota , Misiakos Konstantinos , Raptis Ioannis , Kakabakos Sotirios
Published: November 2022

Drinking water contamination by pathogenic bacteria poses a great danger for public health, since according to WHO 5 million deaths are associated to water related diseases annually. To safeguard drinking water quality, several techniques for bacteria detection, such as culturing and plating, ELISA and DNA-based methods have been developed; which, however, are laborious and time consuming. In this work, we present a miniaturized immunosensor for the rapid, simultaneous label-free determination of bacteria in drinking water. The sensor consists of ten broad-band Mach-Zehnder interferometers (MZIs) integrated on silicon chip along with their corresponding light sources. For the analysis, the MZIs sensing areas were biofunctionalized with bacteria membrane antigens. Then, bacteria mixtures with anti-bacteria specific antibodies were pumped over the chip followed by biotinylated anti-species specific antibody and streptavidin solutions. Binding of antibodies onto the MZI-immobilized antigen, changes the effective refractive index over the MZI area causing an interference spectrum shift which is monitored continuously by an external spectrometer. Due to the short analysis time (12 min), the low detection limits achieved (<5X102 CFU/mL) for S. typhimurium and E. coli, and the small chip size, the proposed immunosensor could find wide application for on-site bacteria detection in drinking water samples.
Comparative studies of the equilibrium adsorption of CO2 onto coal ash zeolites Na-X and Na-Ca-X
Authors: Boycheva Silviya , Marinov Ivan , Miteva Simona , Zgureva Denitza
Published: November 2022

Coal-fired Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) are the main source of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere, but they also generate huge amounts of solid by-products, including fly ash (FA). A modern strategy for sustainable energy production is to improve the ecology of the TPPs by developing technological solutions for zero-emission plants. However, this concept is still far from a practical realization and requires intensive research efforts. Thanks to its aluminosilicate nature, FA is investigated to be converted into zeolites for applications in gas cleaning systems. The development of technologies for CO2 capture by fly ash zeolites (FAZ) will provide a join solution for the two main ecological problems concerning coal supplied TPPs, namely utilization of solid residues and implementation of carbon capture technologies. In the present study, the comparative studies were performed on the adsorption of CO2 onto FAZ obtained from FA referred to classes F and C according to the standard specification of coal fly ash (ASTM 618). FA-derived zeolites of Na-X and Ca-Na-X types were studied with respect to their specific surface and porosity by model studies of their nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms at cryogenic temperatures. The adsorption isotherms of CO2 were measured in the relative pressure range p/p0=0.001-0.03 at 0 oC and mathematically analyzed.
Acknowledgements: The financial support of Bulgarian National Science Fund (BNSF) under the project DN 17/18 (12.12.2017) is highly appreciated.
Geogenic Cr(VI) in groundwater of the Pollino Massif (southern Apennines): occurrence and remediation
Authors: Paternoster Michele , Rizzo Giovanna , Sinisi Rosa , Vilardi Giorgio , Di Palma Luca , Mongelli Giovanni
Published: November 2022

In this study total Cr, Cr(VI), Ni, major and some trace elements were determined in groundwater of northern sector of the Pollino Massif. The investigated area is characterized by ophiolitic rocks consisting of metabasites and cataclastic and highly fractured serpentinites. Two different hydro-facies were observed, reflecting low-temperature water-rock interactions. The Mg-HCO3 hydrofacies was determined through the weathering of serpentinites, the Ca-HCO3 groundwater are due to the interaction with calcschist and metabasites. High Cr(VI) concentrations were detected, exceeding the maximum admissible concentrations by Italian regulation, due to the release of Cr(III) from ophiolitic rocks into water and its oxidation to the hexavalent state. Remediation tests were performed at different liquid/solid concentration, and the kinetic data were interpreted with a suitable mathematical model.
Coal ash zeolite as a self-catalytic-chemisorption system for conversion of carbon dioxide to hydrocarbons
Authors: Boycheva Silviya , Zgureva Denitza
Published: November 2022

At present, the developments of sustainable carbon capture technologies are of the main scientific and technological priority required to mitigate the over generation of greenhouse gases. Three CO2 clean energy production approaches have been outlined: pre-combustion capture, oxy-fuel combustion and post-combustion capture. Next challenge for low-carbon technologies is carbon dioxide recovery instead of its underground storage. A radical discovery for non-fossil fuel energy source is the Sabatier’s reaction for production of methane from carbon dioxide and hydrogen. The industrialization of the process becomes of interest after its integration with electrolysis to produce hydrogen. In our study, initial attempts on the obtaining of hydrocarbon from CO2 based on the catalytic activity of coal ash zeolites and their atmospheric moisture-retaining ability are provided. The experimental investigations on the CO2 chemisorptions were performed in a static reactor at pressure of 5.5 MPa over fly ash zeolite of Na-X type. The CO2 hydrocarbon conversion was established by IR-spectroscopic studies. This research poses a new research challenge in developing efficient methods for the conversion of CO2 into synthetic fuel.

Acknowledgements: The financial support of Bulgarian National Science Fund (BNSF) under the project DN 17/18 (12.12.2017) is highly appreciated.
Statistical modeling of meteorological conditions and air pollution over Athens, Greece
Authors: DELIGIORGI D. , PHILIPPOPOULOS K. , DIAMANTI A.
Published: November 2022

The importance of meteorological parameters and topography in determining the air pollution levels in a specific area is well established. The aim of this study is to model the association between air pollution levels and meteorological parameters for a single site in Athens, Greece. The statistical analysis is based on the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) models for simulating the relationship amongst primary and secondary pollutants (CO, NO, NO2, O3 and SO2) and air temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) depth. The meteorological variables are used as explanatory variables for training different statistical models for each pollutant. The analysis is performed for a twenty-year period (1990-2009) at 00Z and 12Z. Special emphasis is given to the most accurate representation of the ABL depth by using three different methods (i.e. Holzworth, virtual Richardson number and potential temperature gradient). The modeling results indicate the superior performance in the case where the ABL depth was calculated by the virtual Richardson number method. The results indicate the importance of meteorology in air quality along with the significance of other factors that increase air pollution variability in urban environments.
Bioleaching for metal recovery from telecoms switchboard
Authors: Farnaud Sebastien , Baniasadi Mahsa , Graves John , Renshaw Derek , Moris Steve
Published: November 2022

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are a necessity for electronic equipment to function especially in the telecommunications industry. From a PCB for broadcasting networks to PCBs for office communications they are what makes electronic communications equipment operate. The sophistication possible with modern electronic and microelectronic devices depends ultimately on the materials they are made from. Metals have assumed a vital role in electronics at every stage in their evolution. PCBs are rich in base and precious metals, and should be considered as a secondary resource. Bioleaching is a proven green and sustainable method for metal recovery as demonstrated in the mining industry, but applications to metal recovery from electronic equipment are still limited. In this study, bioleaching is applied for the first time to telecommunications products that have reached the end of their useful life. Because several biological and physicochemical parameters can influence bioleaching, the first step in this study has been to analyse the metal content of populated PCBs. In the second part, the effect of different parameters on bioleaching is investigated, with the aim of improving metal recovery. Altogether, the study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of bioleaching for metal recovery from WEEE.
Harmonization of sampling and chemical analysis for the study of Cr(VI) water contamination in aquifers of eastern Mediterranean and Oman: the CrITERIA project experience
Authors: Argyraki Ariadne , Kelepertzis Efstratios , Pyrgaki Konstantina , Botsou Fotini , Megremi Ifigeneia , Dermatas Dimitris
Published: November 2022

The CrITERIA project aims to deliver a harmonized data base, to assist water resource management organizations and water users on decision making when coping with water scarcity, climate extreme events and contaminated water. Contamination by Cr(VI) is used as an example of a specific water pressure problem that has to be tackled. Comparative, collaborative research using real situation data from case study areas in each of the participating countries was the base of our methodology. Such areas had already been identified in Greece and Italy and were further monitored, evaluated and compared to potentially affected water bodies in Cyprus, Turkey, Jordan and Oman, suspect for Cr(VI) contamination due to either natural or industrial sources within the same time frame. To enable comparison a common protocol for water sampling has been developed. This served as the base for monitoring water quantity and quality aspects in the case study areas and verify if Cr(VI) contamination levels exceed regulatory levels. The analytical QA/QC has been facilitated by analyzing a proportion of the samples from each case study area in an external accredited laboratory. The paper presents the developed sampling protocol and discusses the challenges during the harmonization of data from sampling and analysis.
Water reuse integration in the holistic water cycle
Authors: Adin Avner
Published: November 2022

Wastewater reclamation and reuse (WRR) is an emerging water generation tool for combating water stress. The objective of this paper is to develop a conceptual approach which will pave the way to WRR sustainable integration in a multi-resources regional or local system. For that purpose, a holistic Water Cycle Concept has been developed. The water cycle is devided into two partly overlapping circles: (a) Potable production circle, consisting of natural surface and ground water, desalinated water and rainwater, and (b) Recycled water circle, mainly for irrigation, industrial uses and streams rehabilitation. Greywater and direct potable use are developing options. The resulting water quality encounters are being analyzed, e.g. excess boron and magnesium deficiency in effluents originated from domestic desalinated water use are both detrimental to crops, lack of magnesium is also endangers soil stability and food nutrition value. Innovative technologies for complementing the holistic approach have been developed, e.g. minerals recovery from seawater and brine, electrochemical and natural processes hybridization for nutrients and hormones removal and biofilms prevention by nanoparticles injection. In conclusion, holistic water cycle approach enables management of water quality challenges and directs innovative solutions that protect food resources and eliminate long term threats of to public health.
Fouling-resistant membranes prepared via fully biobased layer-by-layer self-assembly
Authors: Sadrzadeh Mohtada , Shamaei Laleh , Ayranci Cagri , Khorshidi Behnam
Published: November 2022

A fully biobased layer-by-layer deposition method, containing kraft lignin and chitosan as the polyelectrolytes, was employed to improve the anti-fouling properties of polyethersulfone membrane. Results revealed that the water in air contact angle decreased from 70° ± 2° for the pristine membrane to 34° ± 1° for the modified double-bilayer membrane, indicating enhanced hydrophilicity. The synthesized film was ultrathin and caused a slight decrease in permeation flux of the modified membrane compared to the pristine membrane. Additionally, the deposited film showed excellent stability after 6 hours running water test using a dead-end filtration cell.
Hybrid zero liquid discharge (ZLD) membrane/chemical process for the treatment of oil sands produced water
Authors: Khorshidi Behnam , Sadrzadeh Mohtada , Mohammadtabar Farshad , Hayatbakhsh Armin
Published: November 2022

In this study, the applicability of a hybrid chemical/membrane process for the treatment of the boiler blow-down (BBD) water from steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operation was explored. For the chemical pre-treatment prior to the membrane filtration, another waste stream of SAGD, i.e., ion exchanger regeneration wastewater (IERW), was used as a coagulant to reduce the concentration of organic matter and silica. The proposed method involved the direct use of the NF process for the purification of BBD water, followed by an integrated IERW conditioning and nanofiltration (NF) to purify the concentrated retentate. This process could operate with a zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) configuration and it was found to be an efficient method in terms of water recovery and water product quality.
Highly efficient anti-fouling electro-conductive membranes fabricated by reduced Graphene Oxide-Polyaniline (rGO-PANI) laminates
Authors: Sadrzadeh Mohtada , Karkooti Amin , Rastgar Masoud
Published: November 2022

As an obstacle against the widespread application of membranes in larger scales, fouling via different materials could cause a severe decline in water permeation. Herein, we fabricated a novel mechanically-stable electro-conductive membrane by simple pressure-assisted laminating of reduced Graphene Oxide-Polyaniline (rGO-PANI) suspension on the commercial polyethersulfone (PES) support layers. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and water contact angle measurements were used to characterize rGO-PANI membranes. Using PANI improved the mechanical stability of laminated film and reduced the water contact angle, making a more hydrophilic surface. Organic fouling behaviors of newly fabricated membranes were also investigated by applying a DC voltage to membranes. The experimental results showed a significant improvement in water flux recovery when 2 V DC potential is applied on the surface of the rGO-PANI membrane.
Thermodynamic model for a reversible desalination cycle using polyelectrolyte hydrogels
Authors: Rud Oleg , Košovan Peter
Published: November 2022

We propose a novel desalination scheme which employs the hydrogels as a tool to draw salt ions from a brine with low salinity to a brine with high salinity. As a driving force we use the fact that the volume of polyelectrolyte gel does depend on the surrounding salinity. While the salinity defines the gel volume in open system, i.e. in equilibrium with big bath, in closed system salinity is defined by the gel volume. The compression and swelling in open and closed system processes are combined into four stages thermodynamic cycle working between two bathes of different salinities. The cycle implies reversibility at any stage, so, in principle, the method can achieve the maximum thermodynamic efficiency. We have shown that for weak polyelectrolyte gels the dependence between the salinity and gel volume appears to be non-monotonic. Depending on the model parameters the surrounding salinity may increase or decrease during compression. In both cases we consider the possible use of this relation in desalination cycle.
Bacterial inactivation and study of damages in subcellular level during disinfection of aqueous samples
Authors: Gounaki Iosifina , Lironi Maria – Aikaterini , Venieri Danae
Published: November 2022

The objectives of the current study were i) to investigate the effectiveness of ozonation and UVA photocatalysis for the inactivation rate of representative bacterial strains, which are considered important for public health and ii) to study damages in subcellular level, in terms of disinfection effects on cellular components, namely, lipids, membrane and proteins.
Disinfection experiments were conducted with the bacterial strains Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus. Photocatalytic experiments were conducted in a batch type, laboratory scale photoreactor. UV-A irradiation was provided by 9 W lamps (Radium Ralutec, 9W/78, 350–400 nm) and the catalyst used was the commercially available TiO2. Ozone was produced by supplying dry air to an Aqua-Flo CD1B ozone generator. The impact of ozone and photocatalyst on bacteria survival was investigated by monitoring cell cultivability: counting on agar plate and by assessing lipid peroxidation (MDA), membrane permeability (ONPG) and protein release from the cell (SDS-PAGE).
Ozonation proved to be more effective for the disinfection of aqueous samples compared with UV-A photocatalysis, as an almost 10 Log microbial reduction was achieved within 15 min of treatment in most cases of the selected bacterial species. However, the higher inactivation rates were recorded for Gram (-) bacteria (E. coli, P. aeruginosa), whose complete elimination was achieved after 15 min of treatment. The same bacterial reduction (8 Log) was obtained when B. cereus was tested (Gram +) but in longer period of time, i.e. 30 min. Regarding the subcellular level the lipid peroxidation and MDA destruction progressed at an exponential rate in the course of treatment, while ONPG hydrolysis assay showed negligible alterations. The latter indicates that the cell membrane may act as an effective barrier between the cytoplasm and the outer solution in each case. Nevertheless, not all bacteria exhibited comparable levels of damages in their structure and cellular format. The actual comparison which should be under consideration is between the thick wall of Gram (+) and the outer membrane of Gram (-), as each one represents the first line of defense. Cell wall complexity still remains a nebulous parameter and conclusions regarding its role in resistance during disinfection are still difficult to be definitive.
Life cycle assessment analysis for remediation technology choice: a case study
Authors: de Folly d'Auris Alessandra , Baric Massimiliano , Tonziello Jacopo
Published: November 2022

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) may be helpful in the choice of a remediation technology, because remediation itself entails impacts. Presently, government and public institutions involved in the decisional workflow focused their attention on minimizing risks at site and for the receptors but do not consider environmental effects in a temporal context.
The aim of this study was to compare the estimated Global Warming Potential (kgCO2eq.) for excavation and disposal, in situ and off site soil washing configuration, from a site contaminated by heavy metals. For a significant comparison, all the obtained values were normalized for the m3 of soil to treat. The analysis showed a clear advantage in soil washing technology: GWP from 10.96 kg CO2 eq/m3 for in situ treatment, up to 36.20 kgCO2 eq/m3 for ex-situ treatment. In the case of excavation and landfilling the GWP was about 1654 kgCO2eq/m3.
Therefore, the environmental advantage shown in the soil washing technology compared to the excavation and disposal in landfills are immediately evident.
On the positive influence of Pd species on low-density polyethylene cracking
Authors: Góra-Marek Kinga , Pyra Kamila , Tarach Karolina , Majda Dorota , Janiszewska Ewa , Melián-Cabrera Ignacio
Published: November 2022

Microporous 12-ring zeolite Beta was impregnated with palladium and evaluated in the cracking of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) cracking. In addition to the catalytic measurements the materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, chemical analysis and nitrogen adsorption, electron microscopy, and FT infrared spectroscopic studies pyridine and CO adsorption. In addition to TGA catalytic studies, the operando IR studies were furthermore performed to follow the aromatic species formation. Deposition of palladium on microporous zeolite BEA improved the catalytic activity and selectivity towards C2-C4 fraction.
The adoption of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to increase the implementation of EMAS
Authors: Zorpas Antonis , Voukkali Irene , Loizia Pantelitsa
Published: November 2022

EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) is European Voluntary environmental management tool designed to support organizations to improve their environmental performance. Articles 38 and 44 of the EMAS Regulation contain the invitation for Member States to adopt legal instruments for reducing administrative burdens of the environmental legislation applicable to the EMAS registered organizations. Despite these provisions only few EU Member States have introduced regulatory relief measures and incentives for EMAS organizations into their national and local legislation.

Under the BRAVER (LIFE15 ENV/IT/000509 co funded from the EU), an effort to identify, develop and testing of effective measures for better regulation has been done. In field testing of the “better regulation” proposals were assessment regarding their feasibility and their cost effective for both organizations and institutions / authorities. A total number of 35 proposed measures were tested, which most of them concerned economic and fiscal relief, public procurement, reduced inspections and funding support. Six of them already successfully adopted in the legislative framework of participating EU Member States, especially at regional level. Specifically, 4 measures adopted in Spain (2 in Catalonia; 2 in the Basque Country), 2 in Italy (Emilia – Romagna Region), 1 in Slovenia (national level) and 1 in Cyprus.

Regardless the regulatory relief measures and incentives for EMAS organizations which have been adopted in the legislative framework, it’s also very important to determine the key performance indicator that an organization must set to monitor and control in order to achieved their goals. Key performance indicators define a set of values against which to measure and based on which evaluate the success of an organization or of a particular activity in which it engages.
Quantifying the impact of volunteerism in the framework of waste management strategies in Cyprus
Authors: Zorpas Antonis , Angeli Antreas
Published: November 2022

Waste Management strategies as a result of the production and consumption line (not cycle) are on the top of the global challenges, within the framework of the seventeen United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on the World Bank projections, the global waste generation levels have been increasing in a steady rate from 1.3 billion tonnes per year in 2012, to 2.2 billion tonnes per year by 2025. This represents a significant increase in per capita waste generation rates, from 1.2 to 1.42 kg per person of which <5% is managed sustainably. It is estimated that there is currently approximately 98,995,672 tons of illegally dumped waste world-wide. During the last decade several Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have developed successful volunteering methodologies in managing the illegal dumping and incentivizing the communities towards sustainable waste management strategies. This has been the result of the numerous effects i.e. infectious diseases, land and water pollution, flooding and loss of biodiversity, which have risen as a result of the improper waste disposal. The international movements towards Zero Waste and/or the Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (3Rs) schemes in combination to the upcoming social science of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), enhances the effort of corporations and the public sector in updating their agenda. This paper aims to provide a holistic approach for the role of volunteers in providing means and strategies against the illegal solid waste disposal and highlighting a series of steps for their application towards impactful campaigns. The latest approaches of volunteerism towards waste management in regards to quantifying the economic, social and environmental value of a strategy are presented and discussed
Thermo-physical properties of agricultural residues for syn gas production using thermo-gravimetric analysis
Authors: kumar praveen
Published: November 2022

The thermal degradation behaviour and the activation energy can be integrated utilized to understand the behaviour and constituent of biomass degradation rate prior to gasification. Thermophysical properties of agricultural residues in order to facilitate its further processing and utilization for syngas production in the gasifier. Suitability of biomass for gasification and power generation was prejudged by its thermo-physical properties. The present study was conducted to investigate the thermophysical behaviour of agricultural residues for gasification were investigated by TGA (thermogravimetric analysis) method. the thermal behaviour and pyrolysis of two types of biomass corn cob and popular by using TGA from ambient to 1000°C. The three different heating rate (10, 15, and 20°C/min) was taken for the thermogravimetric analysis. the carrier gas nitrogen was used in this investigation and flow rate was 40 ml/min. The decomposition kinetic parameters were determined by FWO, DAEM, and Kissinger methods at heating rates of 10, 15, and 20°C/min. Agriculture residue had three mass loss step assigned to first one removal of moisture, the second was the main component (cellulose and hemicellulose degradation ) decomposition and last dissociation of other organic matters. The cellulose and hemicellulose in biomass were playing an important role in combustion and pyrolysis. The reactivity of lignocellulose present in the biomass was low in combustion. Cellulose content biomass decomposed at a lower temperature due to oxygen diffused in the pores of biomass. Thermal stability of the fibres were all up to 200 °C, the peak temperature range of the decomposition process was 300 to 350°C, and thermal degradation ended about 1000° C.The results showed that the apparent activation energy of each agriculture residue changed along with the conversion rate, the average Ea (activation energy) for most of the selected fibres was close to each other, from 190 to 210.0 kJ/mol, except corncob. Corncob had the lowest residue content and Ea. The three method was adopted for evaluating the apparent activation energies of agriculture residue i.e. The Kissinger, FWO, and DAEM methods. The results showed that corncob was sensitive to heat and Corncob has the lowest lignin content and Ea, therefore, it is best suited for feedstock in pallet form for gasifier engine system for producer gas generation in a remote area like village and hill station.
Numerical simulation of CO2-brine-rock interactions on CO2 sequestration in Shihezi Formation of Ordos Basin in China
Authors: Liu B. , Li Z. , Fu X. F.
Published: November 2022

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), as the best way of reducing carbon emissions under existing technological conditions, is attracting more and more attention. Although experiments can explore chemical process of CO2 sequestration, it is limited in time scale. CO2 geological storage will last hundreds and thousands of years, so TOUGHREACT is used to conduct kinetic batch modeling and reactive transport modeling. In this paper, CO2-water-rock interaction mechanisms and theirs effects on reservoir are discussed in detail, especially on how pore structure and properties are changing. The first CCS project in China is carried out in Ordos basin. Geochemical simulation tool TOUGHREACT is used to simulate CO2-water-rock interactions at Shihezi formation in Ordos basin. Geochemical reactions play an important role in CO2 geological storage environments, because they may change the properties of reservoir. Although CO2-water-rock interaction rate may be very small, it is an ideal way of CO2 geological storage. No matter what minerals dissolve and precipitate, they will enhance the dissolution of CO2. For long-term storage, CO2-water-rock interaction can promote amount of CO2 mineralization referred to as mineral trapping, which has a positive effect on the feasibility of CO2 storage.
Estimation of Soil Organic Carbon for Sustainable Agriculture using Deep Learning
Authors: Singh Simranjit , Kasana Singara Singh
Published: November 2022

The organic carbon percentage is concomitant indicating the mineralization of nutrients and the ability of the soil to hold nutrients cations, structural stability, and water holding capacity. It is necessary to know the quantity of carbon for healthy soil and avoid the production related problems which can affect the sustainable agriculture model. In existing approaches, to quantitively calculate soil carbon, sample collection and in-situ laboratory testing are performed. In this work, a novel framework is proposed which is based on Partial Least Square Regression and Long Short-Term Memory networks to quantify soil organic carbon from the LUCAS dataset. Samples of LUCAS dataset are used as input to this framework. The samples are pre-processed by PLS to reduce their dimensions. These pre-processed samples are then passed to the LSTM, a Deep learning framework to build an efficient prediction model. The proposed framework performed more accurately, and its effectiveness is shown by comparing it with existing regression models.
Evaluation of soil loaded with green iron nanoparticles for hexavalent chromium reduction
Authors: Mystrioti Christiana , Mpouras Athanasios , Papassiopi Nymphodora , Dermatas Dimitrios
Published: November 2022

Chromate is a pollutant often found in groundwater and considered a serious threat for humans and ecosystem. Iron nanoparticles produced by green tea polyphenols (GT-nZVI) is a powerful reductant, appropriate for the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). GT-nZVI suspension was initially conceived ideal for direct injection in the contaminated aquifers. However, many studies demonstrated that this suspension presents very low mobility in calcareous aquifers, which are typical in Mediterrannean countries. An alternative mode of GT-nZVI application is the incorporation of nanoiron in a permeable reactive barrier. This option was evaluated experimentally, assuming that the permeable barrier is filled with a calcareous soil previously loaded with nZVI. Namely an amount of soil was loaded with 0.40 mmol of nZVI per gram of soil (S-nZVI) and its efficiency for Cr(VI) removal was evaluated by conducting batch and column tests. Batch tests were carried out by mixing S-nZVI with contaminated groundwater (GW) containing 1300 ppb Cr(VI), at five doses from 5 to 50 grams of S-nZVI per liter of GW. Chromate concentration dropped below detection limit within 1 day at the highest dose. Reduction kinetics was slower with the other doses but after 20 days Cr(VI) dropped below the limit of 50 ppb at all doses except the lowest. Column tests confirmed the effectiveness of S-nZVI. Chromate concentration in column’s effluents remained below detection limit after the introduction of 390 pore volumes of GW.
O-fire+: a pioneer solution on wildfire incident planning and response for enhancing the resilience of individual infrastructures
Authors: Karystinakis Konstantinos , Partozis Thanasis , Grigoriadis Dionisis , Mantzavelas Antonis , Diamantopoulos Stergios
Published: November 2022

Wildland fires can seriously affect infrastructures causing extended direct or indirect financial losses, as well as societies causing the loss of properties, landscape quality and even human lives. The relevant management requires effective planning prior and quick/targeted response during those incidents. Wrong/poorly made decisions can lead to disastrous effects. OMIKRON SA has developed Ofire+, a new system addressed to emergency planning and response managers in both public and private sectors, managing infrastructure prone to wildfires. Ofire+ aspires to become an integrated solution on wildfire incident planning and response, helping decision makers to lower response times during wildfire threats, while increasing direct and indirect protection levels. The system utilizes reliable scientific, operational and management datasets making it a complete real-time decision support system with a wide range of applications, while it comprises of two parts: a web/cloud based control center for the decision makers and an accompanying mobile app for the visitors/staff. Overall, the key advantage is the fact that Ofire+ operates on local vegetation, thus analytic local fuel types which produce local sensitivity, enhanced accuracy and practical usage. Finally, Ofire+’s core innovation is the combination of sound theoretical/scientific knowledge with new ICT solutions into a practical and user-friendly, integrated system.
Improving mycoremediation of acetaminophen: Effect of pH, nitrogen limitation, and co-cultivation
Authors: Esterhuizen-Londt Maranda , Behnam Sani Shirin , Wang Lin , Pflugmacher Stephan
Published: November 2022

Untreated pharmaceutical pollution and their possibly more toxic metabolites, resulting from outdated traditional wastewater treatment processes, end up in aquatic environments and are hazards to the ecosystem homeostasis. Biological wastewater remediation could supplement traditional methods and overcome the dumping of these biologically active compounds in the environment. Mycoremediation is especially promising due to the unspecific nature of fungi to decompose compounds through exoenzymes and the uptake of compounds as nutrients. In the present study, we improved on the previous advances made using the fungus Mucor hiemalis to remediate one of the most commonly occurring pharmaceuticals, acetaminophen (APAP), at higher concentration. The adjustment of pH, nitrogen limitation, and comparison with, as well as co-cultivation with the white-rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium were tested. Nitrogen limitation did not significantly improve the APAP remediation efficiency of M. hiemalis. Maintaining the pH of the media improved the remediation restraint of 24 h previously seen. The APAP remediation efficiency of P. chrysosporium was far superior to that of M. hiemalis and co-cultivation of the two resulted in a decreased remediation efficiency compared to P. chrysosporium in single.
Sustainable musselculture activity in terms of hydrodynamics. The case study of Chalastra basin (NW Gulf of Thessaloniki)
Authors: Savvidis Yiannis , Galinou-Mitsoudi Sofia
Published: November 2022

Based on the framework strategic guidelines for marine aquacultures, the musselculture section has to be operated in Areas of Organized Aquaculture Development (AOAD). Chalastra (NW Thessaloniki’s Gulf, Thermaikos) produces the 40% of the national musselculture production using pole and longline systems. Following the legislation, farmers and authorities are in process of reforming the existed units and planning new ones so that the musselculture would remain a sustainable activity in AOAD. The aim of this study is to estimate the appropriate orientation of the mussel units and the lines from which the mussels’ socks are hung, in relation to the sea currents’ directions for the optimum water circulation in AOAD. The hydrodynamics of Chalastra basin is mainly wind driven and affected both by prevailing northern and southern winds during winter and summer respectively. The mussel units and the socks work as “fence” of the sea currents when the production lines are placed perpendicular to them. Consequently, we propose (a) the division of the studied AOAD in three sub-areas for the pole and long-line units respectively and (b) the placement of the shortest possible length of production lines with orientation parallel to the sea currents
Feasibility of reuse filter backwash water as primary/aid coagulant in coagulation-sedimentation process for synthetic effluent
Authors: Djamal ABDESSEMED , Lilia MAZARI
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of reusing filter backwash water (FBWW) from the water treatment plant (WTP)as a substitute for the conventional coagulants (primary coagulant) in the coagulation-sedimentation process applied for synthetic effluent.The coagulation effect on the elimination of the turbidity and UV254 was investigated by treating synthetic effluent using FBWW as a substitute for conventional coagulants.
OMCEC: A Novel Method for Simultaneous Detection of Composition, Geometry and Motion of Suspended Particles
Authors: Nguyen Thu Ha , Tang Fiona , Maggi Federico
Published: November 2022

Here, we introduce OMCEC, a laboratory-based system that simultaneously measures the material composition, geometric properties, and motion of individual suspended aggregates in a non-invasive and non-destructive way. OMCEC consists of a full-color high-resolution optical system and real-time algorithms for material segmentation based on light spectra emission analysis, quantification of various geometrical properties, and motion detection with particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). We show applications of OMCEC for the composition analysis of aggregates made of biological matter and (i) mineral and (ii) microplastics.
Εffect of summer drought in the natural regeneration of valonia oak
Authors: PAPADOPOULOS A.
Published: November 2022

This paper presents an initial attempt to investigate the effect of drought in the mortality of valonia oak (Quercus ithaburensis subsp. macrolepis) seedlings and young saplings in a silvopastoral system in western Greece. The experiment was conducted in fenced experimental plots where the number of seedlings and young samplings was measured in May and October before and after the dry summer period for the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. The results show that the number of seedlings and young saplings decreased on average by 24.7% in October attributed mainly to the effect of summer drought.
Screening of 102 organic pollutants in groundwater along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in China by GC×GC-TOFMS
Authors: Rao Zhu , liang ming , Liu Ling , Gong Jie , Zhu Tao
Published: November 2022

Screening of 102 organic pollutants in groundwater along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in China by GC×GC-TOFMS. A total of 45 samples were collected. The targets of the investigation involve multiple types of organic pollutants such as Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives, phthalates (PAEs), phenols, anilines, polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) et al. The results showed that naphthalene, fluoranthene and phthalates are commonly detected compounds. There are 8 categories of organic pollutants detected. The highest concentration of 4-nitrobiphenyl is as high as 430 μg/L, and other targets were detected at the higher concentration in the sample. It means groundwater in the sites have been polluted by micro organic pollutant.