bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Futures in a Changing World – Reflections from the 5th International Conference on Sustainable Futures: Environmental, Technological, Social and Economic Matters (ICSF 2024)
Authors: Kiv A E , Semerikov S O , Nechypurenko P P , Bondarenko O V , Iatsyshyn A V , Artemchuk V O , Klimov S V , Danylchuk H B , Vakaliuk T A , Chukharev S M , Sakhno S I , Striuk A M
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an overview of the 5th International Conference on Sustainable Futures: Environmental, Technological, Social, and Economic Matters (ICSF 2024), held in May 2024. The conference brought together over 250 researchers, practitioners, and educators from 19 countries to share cutting-edge research and innovative solutions across a wide range of sustainability-related disciplines. The proceedings cover diverse topics, including climate change, disaster risk reduction, sustainable infrastructure, education for sustainability, environmental engineering, and sustainable business practices. Key themes that emerged include the integration of digital technologies in sustainability efforts, the impacts of global crises on sustainable development, and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. The conference showcased both theoretical advancements and practical applications, with a particular focus on addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This overview highlights the conference’s role in fostering global dialogue and collaboration to address pressing sustainability challenges and shape a more sustainable future.
Seismic hazard assessment in the Shamkir-Mingachevir reservoir region through ground response analysis
Authors: Semenova Yu , Kendzera O , Skurativskyi S , Mykulyak S , Skurativska I , Topoliuk O
Published: December 2024

This research addresses the imperative task of effective disaster mitigation planning for significant earthquakes, specifically focusing on the Shamkir-Mingachevir reservoir region. The complexities of seismic risk assessment involve the intricate interplay of geological, geotechnical, and environmental factors. The character of propagation of seismic waves is influenced significantly by local site conditions, shaping the observed intensity of ground motions at the surface. The term “site effects” is central to this research, signifying the amplification of seismic waves influenced by distinctive geological conditions. The results indicate that soils with lower shear wave velocities exhibit lower peak ground accelerations at the surface. However, the study highlights the susceptibility of softer soils to nonlinear effects, emphasizing the need to consider the composition of local soils in developing seismic safety measures. The separate study of resonant frequencies of the soil-structure system is crucial to mitigate resonant effects during earthquakes. This approach facilitates the development of accurate and tailored building standards aimed at safeguarding infrastructure and ensuring safety in seismic zones.
Evaluation of the green flood mitigation measures in urban area in the frame of the sustainable city concept
Authors: Velychko S V , Dupliak O V
Published: December 2024

The flood protection problem has always existed for the Ukrainian Carpathians. The floods that caused damage to urban areas occurred 10 times during the past 20 years in the basin of the Uzh River, ones were the cold period floods in most cases. The Uzh River passes through the central part of the Uzhhorod city, the river is crossed by five bridges, the embankment consists of “grey” flood protection structures: dams, concrete and stone walls. The central embankment was flooded by extreme floods only. At the same time auxiliary buildings and greenhouse in the Botanic Garden and the Bozdos Park area are flooded almost every two-three years. The purpose of the work is to update hydrological calculations, to calculate the flood water surface curve and assessment of the “green” flood mitigation measures in the central part of the city. Flood flow rate of 1% probability was calculated by processing continuous observations data for 72 years. Flood water levels of 1% probability were calculated using a 1D HEC-RAS model. Retention reservoirs, old river bed, mobile flood protection systems for local areas and buildings were considered as “green” flood control measures. Relocating embankments to make “room” for river within the existing buildings is not possible, but some stream widening has been preserved within the Botanic Garden by local flood protection of the single buildings and the central part of the garden. Calculation showed that the central part of the city is protected from flooding by the existing dykes, except for a few areas that would be protected by local mobile barriers. It is not possible to create an exclusively “green” flood control measures in the urban area, but the further development of flood risks management must be directed to the concept of a sustainable city development with minimization of the negative environment impact.
Stakeholders’ awareness and perception of bio-economic transformation in Ukraine
Authors: Vostriakova V I
Published: December 2024

Existing bio-economic strategies are complex political documents that affect all spheres of human life, nature, and the economy and require broad social perception. Despite Ukraine’s high bio-economic potential, this term has yet to enter the everyday lives of both politicians and ordinary citizens. The vision of what positive or negative consequences this concept generates and what conflicts and political demands may be associated with it has yet to be accurately formed. The article explores the micro-level perception of bio-economic transformation by critical stakeholders to support policy and strategy development at all decision-making levels. We used quantitative data from surveys in three target groups of respondents (scientific and innovation sector, business and industry, government and non-government organizations) to form an approximate picture of the bio-economic transformation perception from scientific, public, and business perspectives. According to the results, bio-energy and agriculture are considered the sectors of the bio-economy with the highest potential for growth in Ukraine. Respondents of all target groups are united in the understanding that the state bears greater responsibility for communicating and promoting the bio-economy among a broader audience, which is not sufficiently informed about potential advantages and problematic issues. The advantages of bio-economic transformation for the environment are perceived as undeniable. Potential risks are minimized or not perceived as such. The understanding of the role of bio-economic transformation in economic growth, job creation, innovation development, and digitalization is less visible. Almost 20 percent of respondents believe that the problem of insufficient biomass for bio-economic transformation is the most critical risk. Biomass as a raw material of sufficient quality may have other options for creating products with high added value before being used in bioenergy at the end of its life cycle. The risks of insufficient biomass can be partially reduced due to the widespread implementation of the cascade use of biomass and the principles of the circularity of the bio-economy. Thus, it is vital to include circularity, cascading use of biomass, and aspects of the rational resources used in the communication policy of bio-economic transformation, as well as its synergy with the main bio-economic sectors regarding the use of biomaterials and innovative knowledge and technologies with their undeniable positive impact on mitigation climate change. The results of the bio-economy perception survey can be used by stakeholders when developing or revising communication strategies and plans and fill a scientific gap in the perception of bio-economic transformation by various stakeholders in Ukraine.
Geoinformation assessment of solar plant potential in the Ivano-Frankivsk region to achieve effective decarbonisation and energy stability
Authors: Davybida L I
Published: December 2024

Despite the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine, the country has begun its recovery process. The renovation should be in line with the principles of energy efficiency and decarbonisation, with an emphasis on the use of renewable energy sources. The study aims to identify the most suitable locations for establishing solar power stations in the Ivano-Frankivsk region using GIS software. It also provides a cartographic model showing the suitability of different areas for local communities, providing valuable information for potential investors. The calculation process was carried out using QGIS, incorporating environmental, technical and economic factors, and resulted in the development of a conclusive suitability map. The primary assessment of photovoltaic potential was conducted for communities within the Ivano-Frankivsk region. The areas with the most promising potential, estimated to be over 50 MW, were ranked according to their suitability for solar plants.
Increase in the energy efficiency of the biogas production process through vibration activation of heat and mass exchange processes in the bioreactor
Authors: Dzhedzhula V V , Yu Yepifanova I
Published: December 2024

One of the important problems preventing the increase in energy efficiency of biogas reactors is the use of heating elements operating in the free-convective mode of heat exchange. In addition to the large heat exchange areas, and the correspondingly reduced useful volume of the reactor, the use of free convective heat exchangers leads to the formation of stagnation zones, stratification of the medium, hypocooling of the lower zones of the reactor, overheating of the upper zones. The intensification of the heat exchange between the heating element and the substrate will allow to reduce the area of the heat exchange devices in the reactor, activate the thermostabilizing processes and reduce the cost of the reactor construction. Based on the results of the analysis of the influence of the fluid oscillation created by the movement of the activator plate on the intensity of heat transfer from the heating wall to the water and the substrate, the choice of the determining temperature of the liquid and the temperature of the wall with different methods of organizing convection is substantiated.
Application of fine waste from iron ore beneficiation in reinforced concrete structures with basalt-plastic reinforcement
Authors: Valovoi O I , Eremenko O Y , Valovoi M O , Volkov S O
Published: December 2024

One of the main development programs of each country is the control and utilization of industrial waste since the sustainable development of this industry is accompanied by the greatest environmental pollution. Iron ore beneficiation byproducts are artificial quartz-iron mineral mixtures that are fed into sludge ponds that form the so-called tailings ponds in the form of pulp. Tailings ponds occupy more and more territory every year and have a significant negative impact on the environment. At the same time, industrial waste from iron ore enrichment, the so-called tailings, is used as a fine aggregate in concrete mixtures to replace quartz and construction sand. Studies show that a 40% replacement of quartz sand with fine iron ore dressing waste is optimal for the manufacture of concrete mixtures without any adverse effect on strength and durability properties. The paper considers the stress-strain state of beams in the second group of limit states made of concrete mixtures at 100% replacement of quartz sand with fine plant protection products waste. The percentage of reinforcement of beam sections of all series and the class of concrete were assumed to be the same for samples of all series. The results of experimental tests showed almost comparable results of crack resistance of beams reinforced with metal reinforcement and with hybrid reinforcement. At a load of 70% of the destructive capacity, BM and BMD beams do not exceed the maximum permissible width of normal crack opening, and BMBD beams do not exceed the maximum permissible width of 60%.
Current state and prospects of red mud utilisation: A review
Authors: Saveliev S G , Yarosh T P , Kondratenko M M , Babaievska O V , Yu Baboshko D
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the urgent problem of utilisation of red mud (RM) – a by-product of bauxite ore processing in the process of aluminium production. The acuteness of the problem is increased by the negative influence of red mud on the environment due to its high alkalinity of its pulp (pH = 9-12) and fine dispersibility. The article characterises the main properties of RM, reveals the essence of the most effective method of its storage today – dry stacking. Due to the presence of high content of iron oxide and such metals as Al, Ti, Y, Ce, etc. in the composition of RM, it is a valuable complex man-made raw material. The analysis of modern technologies of RM processing has shown that the important tasks in its utilisation are the processes of dehydration and disinfection. The first one is most successfully solved by using filter presses, the second one – by adding lime to the sludge washing system. Technologies for extraction of valuable components from RM can be divided into two groups – pyro- and hydrometallurgical. The most promising solution to the problem of effective integrated waste-free processing of RM is a rational combination of these two processes.
The automated system of the trolleybus park as part of the sustainable city infrastructure
Authors: Tiahunova M , Kyrychek H , Filippenkov D
Published: December 2024

Trolleybuses, as an integral component of city infrastructure, play a pivotal role in sustainable urban transportation. This paper emphasizes their pivotal role in public transit, highlighting the need for advancements in monitoring and management. Recognizing the need for advancements in monitoring and management, the study advocates for the creation of a comprehensive trolleybus automated monitoring system. This system represents a critical step forward in enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and overall performance of trolleybus networks. By seamlessly integrating real-time monitoring, data analytics, and automation technologies, such systems not only facilitate proactive maintenance but also enables informed decision-making for urban planners and transit authorities. The proposed automated monitoring system aims to optimize trolleybus operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to the sustainable evolution of urban transportation. As cities worldwide strive for smarter and more efficient public transit solutions, the implementation of automated trolleybus monitoring systems emerges as a vital and strategic investment in the future of urban mobility and of sustainable infrastructure of the cities.
Researching the optimal combination of UAV equipment for performing surveying measurements and software for processing the results
Authors: Polishchyk D , Panasiuk A , Davydova I , Bondarchuk V
Published: December 2024

In recent years, there has been a development and popularization of conducting mine surveys through remote methods. This is a result of the continuous development of the mining industry, where projects are becoming increasingly complex. Therefore, the application of remote surveying is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. In the future, UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technology, satellite imagery, and LiDAR surveying can completely transform the measurement life cycle in mining enterprises. The conducted research helped justify the best instruments for mine surveying and the software for processing field results, which were used in practical experiments. Measurements of mining volumes were carried out using the selected instruments and software, and the results obtained were compared with the reference values. The conducted work allowed for the evaluation of the possibility of using UAVs for mine surveying and determining the optimal choice of instruments and software for conducting such activities.
Resource-saving method of extracting cucumber and melon seeds
Authors: Dotsenko N A , Babenko D V , Gorbenko O A
Published: December 2024

The production of vegetable and melon crops is one of the most labour-intensive branches of agricultural production. Production volumes depend not only on growing conditions, but also on the quality of seed material. A resource-saving method of extracting cucumber and melon seeds and a separator that allows its implementation are presented. The design feature of the separator is a combination of vibration and inertial modes. The use of a separator, which has a combination of the mentioned modes in the technological process, allows to significantly improve the quality of separation of seeds from the peel and pulp. Thus, at the next stage, when washing the seeds, it is possible to reduce the amount of water, using the technology of a complete closed cycle of cleaning for reuse. The scheme of the technological process of cucumber and melon seed separation, which is used to implement a resource-saving method, is presented. The main factors and optimization criteria were determined, according to which the quality assessment of the technological process of cucumber and melon seeds separation was carried out using the proposed constructive solution. The ranges of the optimal combination of independent factors are determined. Using a resource-saving method of extracting cucumber and melon seeds allows to significantly reduce water consumption when washing seeds and achieve an improvement in the quality of the technological process.
Exploring sustainable choices: Consumer perception factors of millet milk consumption
Authors: Pampackal T M , Malik S , Sharma R
Published: December 2024

Plant-based dairy alternatives have been gaining popularity recently in developing nations, but only a little is known about the consumer perception of these goods. This study aims to analyze the key determinants that affect millet milk consumption in India. An online survey was conducted with a sample of 178 people belonging to different age groups and educational backgrounds. Binary logistic regression was used in the study to analyze the factors that will significantly contribute to the consumption of millet milk. The results suggested that veganism and ethical concerns significantly affected decision-making. In addition, the educational background of the people was also significant but negatively correlated in influencing the consumption of plant-based dairy alternatives. The study aligns with SDG 12: Sustainable Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, contributing valuable insights for fostering sustainable dietary patterns and environmentally conscious consumer behavior. To promote millet milk in the Indian market, the stakeholders can customize their marketing strategies and emphasize ethical concerns and veganism.
Geospatial database generation of forest growth using the QGIS software package
Authors: Khainus D D , Stupen R M , Makrickiene E , Sadovyy I I , Siedov A O
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the use of machine learning methods in the QGIS software package to create a geographic information database of forest growth. The authors explore the possibilities of applying machine learning algorithms to analyse satellite images of different resolutions and geospatial data to determine the growth of forest resources. The authors consider classification and forecasting methods and their advantages in the context of creating a database for tracking and managing forest resources. The research results confirm the effectiveness of using machine learning in QGIS for accurate and automated analysis of the dynamics of changes in forest cover, which can serve as a basis for decision-making in the field of forestry and protection of natural resource potential.
Vegetation zone segmentation in multispectral imagery
Authors: Butko I M , Golubenko O I , Makoveichuk O M , Zaitsev I O , Kromkach V O
Published: December 2024

In the paper showing A U-Net-type convolutional neural network proposed for vegetation segmentation in multispectral imagery. The architecture of this network has modified and expanded to achieve better results with a smaller training dataset. The use of the network has made it possible to improve the solution to the problem of accurately identifying objects from the background based on existing information without the use of additional means of obtaining data. The processing of images of a corresponding nature is shown for 4-channel multispectral satellite images using a U-Net-shaped network trained on aerial images. Preprocessing showed the need to take into account the image formation model and perform post-training of the network based on the obtained data. A comparison conducted between the results of vegetation zone delineation in multispectral images using a convolutional neural network with a modified U-Net-like architecture and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The NDVI vegetation index uses data from various spectral channels and calculated as the ratio between intensities in the red and near-infrared channels of multispectral imagery, displayed as a number from -1 to +1, where a higher index value signifies denser green vegetation. Shown that for acceptable results, it is enough to use 4-channel images (NIR+RGB). The simulation performed in the MATLAB system.
Design of rapid-hardening cementitious repair mixtures for increasing the sustainability of concrete structures
Authors: Kropyvnytska T , Sanytsky M , Kaminskyy A , Korolko S
Published: December 2024

The article presents designe of rapid-hardening, non-shrinking cementitious mixtureses, which allows solving the problem of rehabilitation of concrete structures and has a positive effect of environmental sustainability. To ensure the maximum dense packing of the cement mixture, the granulometric composition of the sand was optimized. Mathematical models of physical and technical indicators of repair mixtures based on Portland limestone cement and optimized sand composition were obtained, which quantitatively characterize the action of high-alumina fly ash, sodium hydroaluminate, polycarboxylate ethers with increased rapid hardening, early strength, adhesive strength and reduction of shrinkage deformations. A combination of Portland limestone cement, fly ash, polycarboxylate ethers and alkaline activator ensures the intensification of early structure formation due to the formation of hydrocarboaluminates and alkaline hydroaluminosilicates; larger fractions of limestone particles and fly ash act as a microfiller, which in the complex contributes to increasing the early strength and stability of the cementitious matrix.
Collapse behaviour of double-layer pipes: A review
Authors: Imannuaji R I , Adiputra R , Prabowo A R
Published: December 2024

Pipes serve as crucial conduits for fluid transportation across diverse industrial sectors, necessitating a thorough understanding of their structural properties and performance under varying conditions. This study explores the resilience of underwater double-layer pipes, comprising inner and outer layers separated by an annulus that usually used in deep water application such as OTEC and gas and oil transport, against collapse induced by bending moment loads or external pressure. The investigation encompasses a comprehensive review of relevant literature and examines different configurations of DLP. The analysis reveals that key factors influencing the buckling capacity under pure bending loads include pipe length, core thickness ratio, and core stiffness. Under hydrostatic pressure, collapse behavior is influenced by the radius-to-thickness ratio and the ratio of the core thickness to outer and inner layer thicknesses. Furthermore, the collapse mechanism of the double layer pipe is analyzed. The study underscores the importance of addressing such structural nuances in design and operational considerations.
Reducing the risk of power equipment failure when using information from information measurement system of vibration diagnosis rotating units of auxiliary engines of power plant
Authors: Zvaritch V M , Gyzhko Y I
Published: December 2024

Sustained operation of critical infrastructure facilities is an extremely important problem. Power Stations are among these facilities. The reliability of Power Station equipment is closely linked to the effective monitoring and diagnostic systems they are equipped. Such systems are constructed in several stages. Good prioritization is an effective way to address security and risk management issues. It aims to maximize the benefits of available resources by focusing on the most important issues and thereby minimizing inherent security risks. Such decisions may be influenced by an inaccurate interpretation of the system state caused by a forced consensus of judgements on an adverse event. In practice, the process of risk management and assessment involves several technical and organizational factors, not just indicators of the severity of an adverse event. The paradigm of risk analysis in the energy sector is clearly related to the risk paradigm that exists in the development of cybersecurity systems. Such decisions may be influenced by an inaccurate interpretation of the system state caused by a forced consensus of judgements on an adverse event. The paper considers the peculiarities of constructing wireless elements of a multilevel diagnostic system for power plant auxiliary motors and the methodology for assessing the auxiliary motor resistance and their impact on the power plant operation.
The issues of technological modeling of physicochemical iron removal from deep groundwater at the rapid filter
Authors: Poliakov V L , Martynov S Y
Published: December 2024

An exact solution to the task of physicochemical iron removal from natural water containing excess iron ferric form at the rapid filters is presented in the article. The principles of applied optimization of filters for iron removal are formulated based on technical and economic calculations. Three filter control algorithms are described and technological modeling of its operation is performed throughout the service life of the filter medium when implementing a regular algorithm. The impact of the main design parameter on the economic indicators and, first of all, the reduced costs is analyzed. The possibility of minimizing the cost of water treatment through a reasonable choice of the packed bed height has been demonstrated.
Concept of synthesis of the digital twin of the rock massif based on the stability criterion
Authors: Shchokin V , Shchokina O , Aniskov O
Published: December 2024

The proposed concept of synthesizing the digital twin of a rock massif is based on the application of a developed method for determining stability coefficients. This method involves measuring the intensity of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) in rock formations and application of Intelligent AutoRegressive Moving Average with Bumpiness and Sparsity regularization (ARMABiS) system. ARMABiS is a modification of the Wang-Mendel fuzzy neural network designed for field processing of primary information regarding the transient process of EMP intensity before, during, and after a mass explosion in a quarry. The reconstruction of the spatial field of stability criteria for the rock massif along the quarry perimeter is also considered. The uniqueness of the method lies in the prior determination of the frequency range corresponding to the specified depth of the rock massif to assess the stability reserve coefficient. Explosions during rock blasting are used as an external influence on the massif. The method involves measuring the parameters of the transient process through electromagnetic pulse impulses during mass explosions and until the restoration of the background EMP level. The stability reserve coefficient of the massif is determined by a formula that considers the internal friction angle of rock formations, the maximum value of EMP induced by the explosion, and the duration of damping to the background EMP level
About the methodology to improve concept of maximum security of nuclear facility at minimum costs
Authors: Diviziniuk M M , Farrakhov O V , Zinovieva I S , Kutsenko V O , Shevchuk R
Published: December 2024

Given work describe proposals concerning Pampuro method use for improvement of the maximum security concept of nuclear facility at minimum costs. The main provisions of the maximum security concept ensuring for nuclear facility at minimum cost are analyzed. The meaning of the terms threat and risk in relation to critical infrastructure objects is considered. One of the directions for optimal management concept implementing of protected critical infrastructure object using the Pampuro method is proposed. The mathematical model was developed to ensure security of protected nuclear facility at minimum of costs. It takes into account different intensities of terrorist influence. It was concluded that software implementation of the developed mathematical apparatus can be used as a unified software product by security services or physical protection services of various protected objects.
Features of designing systems for the formation of an internal microclimate of a high class of cleanliness of operating rooms of medical institutions
Authors: Lobanchykova N M , Vakaliuk T A , Korbut V P , Lobanchykov S M , Krasnov Y B
Published: December 2024

This publication is devoted to the study of the peculiarities of designing systems for forming an internal microclimate of a high cleanliness class in the operating rooms of medical institutions. The article presents an analysis of the requirements for microclimate hygiene and air environment of operating rooms of medical institutions, cleanliness classes of premises to be implemented with permissible air components and microclimate parameters for operating rooms of medical institutions, analysis of methods of microclimate regulation, analysis of the features of the construction of ventilation and air conditioning systems of high cleanliness class; analysis of air preparation systems for premises. The article identifies the features of ventilation and air conditioning systems and substantiates the need to use multi-stage filtration; installation of air conditioners with air recirculation and central air conditioning for fresh air preparation; creation of overpressure about neighbouring rooms; use of CAV and VAV systems to regulate airflow parameters and provide overpressure. Conceptual design solutions are presented, and typical block diagrams for the formation of an internal microclimate of a high class of cleanliness in operating rooms in a medical institution are developed, which can be used as standard ones in the development of design solutions. The necessity of developing an automation system is substantiated. A typical structural diagram of an automated air conditioning control system has been developed and substantiated. A generalising algorithm for subsystem functioning has been developed, which can be widely used in the design and construction of such systems.
Gypsum recycling using an inclined chamber vibrating jaw crusher
Authors: Fedoskina O V , Yu Svietkina O , Ziborov K A , Yerisov M M , Fedoskin V O
Published: December 2024

The construction of new buildings and the demolition of obsolete and war-damaged buildings generate hundreds of thousands of tonnes of drywall waste. Gypsum waste, harmless in an isolated state, when thrown into a landfill causes environmental problems by polluting groundwater, emitting hydrogen sulphide and greenhouse gases. The solution of such an urgent problem, coinciding with the purpose of this work, is possible through the development of effective technological schemes and equipment for processing waste into secondary raw materials. The research on the selection of the lining plate of the jaws of the vibratory jaw crusher has been carried out on the impact bench. The dependence of effective destruction of gypsum layer of drywall on the profile of lining plates is shown. Drywall was crushed in a laboratory crusher. The innovative technological process allowed to separate the initial composite material into three constituent parts converted into secondary raw materials. The obtained results substantiate the feasibility of processing drywall waste in a vibratory jaw crusher at the place of its formation and obtaining at the same time marketable products, reducing transport costs, improving the environment and preserving mineral resources.
Prospects of the recycling of metallurgical waste
Authors: Maslak O I , Ye Hryshko N , Hlazunova O O , Maslak M V , Yu Yakovenko Ya , Savielova A D
Published: December 2024

The article focuses on the peculiarities of waste management of the mining and metallurgical complex. As a result of growing environmental awareness, iron and steel slag is highly valued as a recycled material that can reduce environmental impact due to its resource conservation and energy conservation. The key factors contributing to increasing the attractiveness of investments in the processing of metallurgical waste are: 1. limitation of supplies of primary metal in case of expected growth of demand in the conditions of energy transition; 2. carbon emissions: steel and aluminum together account for almost 10 percent of global emissions, in turn secondary aluminum production creates 5-25 times less carbon emissions; 3. geopolitical instability and dependence on imports from China increase the need to increase the security of supply of primary metals. One of the promising directions of reuse of metals is the production of building materials. Slag is an improved and more ecological alternative to traditional building materials. It can be used in various applications such as filler for concrete and asphalt mixtures, railway ballast, cement, etc. It has been established that the use of slag cement not only provides high-quality concrete, but also prevents global warming, contributes to the conservation of natural resources and minimizes pollution in landfills.
Radioecological monitoring as a key factor in food quality management
Authors: Iatsyshyn Andrii V , Kovach V O , Lahoiko A M , Gurieiev V O , Humeniuk A A , Semenets-Orlova I A , Shevchuk R
Published: December 2024

The effective functioning of radioecological monitoring of food is a crucial task for all countries worldwide as it directly impacts public health. This article confidently describes the migration of radiocesium (Cs) in the environment and its pathways into the human body. The article analyses the data of radionuclide content in food products across France, Spain, Great Britain, Germany, China, and Ukraine. This text confidently compares the regulatory frameworks for food quality management and radioecological monitoring in the mentioned countries. It also provides clear and decisive recommendations for visualising the obtained information on a public portal for scientific research, public awareness, and general use.
Natural phytomelioration of coal mine waste heaps in the context of increased radiation background (on the case of Nadiya mine, Lviv-Volyn coal basin, Ukraine)
Authors: Voloshchyshyn A I , Bosak P V , Popovych V V , Menshykova O V , Kopystynskyi Yu O
Published: December 2024

At the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow in autumn 2021, world leaders and participants decided to phase out coal power. Ukraine is committed to shutting down its state-owned coal-fired power plants by 2035. Natural and technical geosystems in coal mining areas have a significant impact on environmental and anthropogenic environmental safety and require comprehensive research This scientific article delves into the thorough examination of the impact of augmented radiation levels in the waste piles of the Nadiya mine in the Lviv-Volyn coal basin. The exploitation of the Lviv-Volyn coal basin has led to many negative changes in the flora and fauna, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, and has significantly affected the life and health of the Ukrainian population. The Nadiya mine waste heaps are located on the outskirts of the town of Sosnivka, Chervonohrad district, Lviv region (Ukraine) on fluvioglacial sands, partially on alluvial sediments of the Western Bug River. The height of the waste heaps is over 42 m and the area is 12 hectares. The spoil heap is bounded by woody vegetation on both sides and agricultural land on the other. The spoil heap is composed of burnt and unburnt rocks with sulfuric acid zones on the burnt pieces. Spontaneous combustion is observed on the spoil heap, in particular at the top, where the radiation background was investigated. The radiation power at the top of the spoil heap was found to be significantly higher than in other areas. The investigations of the radiation background of the Nadiia mine spoil heap showed the equivalent dose rate at the top of the heap, which is 0.42 μSv/h, exceeding the permissible standards of 0.3 μSv/h. It should be noted that the excess radiation background is due to the combustion of rock.
Multi-slice electron ptychographic tomography for three-dimensional phase-contrast microscopy beyond the depth of focus limits
Authors: Romanov Andrey , Cho Min Gee , Scott Mary Cooper , Pelz Philipp
Published: December 2024

Electron ptychography is a powerful computational method for atomic-resolution imaging with high contrast for weakly and strongly scattering elements. Modern algorithms coupled with fast and efficient detectors allow imaging specimens with tens of nanometers thicknesses with sub-0.5 Ångstrom lateral resolution. However, the axial resolution in these approaches is currently limited to a few nanometers, limiting their ability to solve novel atomic structures ab initio. Here, we experimentally demonstrate multi-slice ptychographic electron tomography, which allows atomic resolution three-dimensional phase-contrast imaging in a volume surpassing the depth of field limits. We reconstruct tilt-series 4D-STEM measurements of a

Co
3

O
4

nanocube, yielding 2 Å axial and 0.7 Å transverse resolution in a reconstructed volume of

(
18.2

nm

)
3

. Our results demonstrate a 13.5-fold improvement in axial resolution compared to multi-slice ptychography while retaining the atomic lateral resolution and the capability to image volumes beyond the depth of field limit. Multi-slice ptychographic electron tomography significantly expands the volume of materials accessible using high-resolution electron microscopy. We discuss further experimental and algorithmic improvements necessary to also resolve single weakly scattering atoms in 3D.
Theoretical investigation of cycling stability in TiS2 anode for zinc-ion rechargeable batteries
Authors: Atthapak Chayanon , Jampaiboon Natthapong , Sukmas Wiwittawin , Alling Björn , Bovornratanaraks Thiti , Ektarawong Annop
Published: December 2024

To advance the development of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), which are considered a promising alternative for sustainable energy storage, it is a crucial step to explore zinc-free metal anodes to prevent zinc-dendrite formation. Titanium disulfide (TiS2) has emerged as a potential anode material for ZIBs, due to its sizeable interlayer spacing and favorable electrochemical properties. However, its stability during battery cycles must be thoroughly investigated to assess its feasibility from a theoretical perspective. Herein, the first-principles calculations are performed to theoretically investigate the stability during the cycles of zinc-intercalated TiS2 (Zn
x
TiS2). Despite its formation energies lying above the thermodynamic convex hull, Zn
x
TiS2 demonstrates robust mechanical and dynamical stabilities over the entire range of zinc-ion intercalation, suggesting its ability to maintain structural integrity under cycling conditions of ZIBs. Our evaluation of structural, elastic, electrochemical, and electronic properties reveals significant changes during the zinc-ion intercalated process, such as the reduction of the open-circuit voltage and changes in the interlayer spacing. These findings indicate that while TiS2 shows promise as an anode material from a theoretical aspect, addressing the irreversible structural changes observed experimentally is essential. Our insights into the mechanism of zinc-ion intercalation in TiS2 provide valuable guidance for future design and optimization of zinc-free metal anodes.
Comprehensive numerical characterization of the piezoresistivity of carbon nanotube polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Elaskalany Mostafa , Behdinan Kamran
Published: December 2024

Polymer nanocomposites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising materials for applications in flexible sensors and self-sensing structures due to their enhanced mechanical and electrical properties. This study investigates the piezoresistive behavior of CNT/polymer nanocomposites to establish structure-property relationships addressing the limitations in modeling of the piezoresistivity under varying mechanical strains. Monte Carlo simulations were employed to account for uncertainties in the microstructure of the nanocomposite by randomly dispersing CNTs within the representative volume element. The fiber reorientation model was used to simulate the mechanical deformation effects on CNT kinematics, while the Landauer–Büttiker formula was used to calculate the tunneling resistance between CNTs. The developed model was validated against experimental data to ensure its reliability. The study systematically analyzed the impact of key parameters, including CNT aspect ratio, polymer energy barrier height, Poisson’s ratio, CNT volume fraction, intrinsic CNT conductivity, and the number of CNT conduction channels, on the piezoresistive sensitivity under both tension and compression. One key finding is the contrasting effect of parameters like polymer energy barrier height and CNT intrinsic conductivity under tensile versus compression loadings. Piezoresistivity increases with higher values of energy barrier heights and CNT conductivity under tensile strain but decreases under compression. This comprehensive characterization enhances the design and optimization of CNT/polymer nanocomposites guiding future developments in smart materials and sensing technologies.
Multimodal biometric authentication: a novel deep learning framework integrating ECG, fingerprint, and finger knuckle print for high-security applications
Authors: U Sumalatha , K Krishna Prakasha , Prabhu Srikanth , Nayak Vinod C
Published: December 2024

Multimodal biometric systems represent a significant advancement in biometric authentication technology by integrating multiple modalities to enhance accuracy and security. Our proposed system combines electrocardiogram (ECG), fingerprint, and finger knuckle print (FKP) modalities to achieve improved authentication performance, especially suited for high-security applications. The system first uses ECG for liveness detection, ensuring that only genuine users proceed, followed by fingerprint and FKP for authentication. Three individual Siamese Neural Networks were developed, each optimized to extract distinct features from each modality. Data quality was enhanced using preprocessing methods such as noise reduction and normalization, along with data augmentation strategies to improve model robustness. The system was evaluated using a balanced dataset of 50 samples per biometric modality. Individual average accuracies reached 99.54% for ECG, and 100% for both fingerprint and FKP considering 90 subjects. Using weighted average score-level fusion with a priority on fingerprint and FKP, the system achieved an overall accuracy of 99.80%, with a False Acceptance Rate (FAR) of 0.20%, False Rejection Rate (FRR) of 0.21%, Equal Error Rate (EER) of 0.20%, and an F1-Score of 99.80%. These results demonstrate the system's resilience to spoofing and robustness against data variability, offering a highly secure authentication solution with practical applicability in cloud-based high-security environments, such as banking and healthcare.
An efficient deep learning model for paddy growth stage classification using neural network pruning on UAV images
Authors: Ramachandran Anitha , Kumar K S Sendhil
Published: December 2024

Crop phenology has a vital role in sustainable agriculture, facilitating farmers to make informed decisions throughout the crop-growing season. The traditional method of phenological detection relies on vegetation index calculations and time-series data, which can be extremely costly and difficult to obtain. In contrast, deep learning algorithms can estimate phenological stages directly from images, overcoming Vegetative Index (VI)-based limitations. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) offer high spatial and temporal resolution images at low cost, making them suitable for frequent field monitoring. This study focuses on the classification of rice seedling growth stages using deep learning techniques from images captured by UAVs. The proposed PaddyTrimNet model incorporates neural network pruning to classify paddy growth stages efficiently based on the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale. It focuses on the BBCH11, BBCH12, and BBCH13 using UAV images. PaddyTrimNet is an architecture based on ResNet50 modified specifically to classify rice development stages, incorporating separable convolutional layers to reduce parameters. The model is pruned using the Layer-wise Relevance Propagation method to enhance efficiency without compromising performance. It has demonstrated superior performance in paddy growth stage classification, achieving an accuracy of 96.97% while utilizing only 48.18 MFLOPS. It surpasses the existing pretrained deep learning classification models in terms of both accuracy and computational efficiency. This study contributes to precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices by leveraging deep learning and UAV imagery.
Tool condition monitoring using I-kaz enhanced kernel extreme learning machine
Authors: Gao Chen , Nuawi Mohd Zaki , Wang Jicai
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the accuracy of tool condition monitoring (TCM) in milling, an I-kaz enhanced Kernel Extreme learning Machine (I-kaz_KELM) method is proposed by combining the KELM and I-kaz statistical algorithm. It uses the I-kaz angle function to replace the conventional kernel function to avoid the selection of kernel function and the pre-set of its parameters. A two-layer network model of the I-kaz_KELM is constructed to improve the KELM in feature learning of complex non-linear high-dimensional. Research and analysis of two milling TCM public benchmark datasets (PHM 2010 TCM dataset and NASA TCM dataset) confirmed that the monitoring accuracy of the proposed method is better than SVM and KELM under limited samples. The RESM of the proposed method is reduced by at least 10% compared to the other two methods, and the RESM fluctuation amplitudes of the proposed method with model parameters is reduced by 35%–95% than that of the two other methods. It can be demonstrated that the proposed method can significantly improve learning performance without significantly affecting the learning speed, and has stronger robustness due to reduced sensitivity to the model parameter to be optimized.