bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the power performance for three hybrid Darrieus-Savonius rotors based on the Taguchi method
Authors: Abdel-razak Mahmoud H. , Emam Mohamed , Ookawara Shinichi , Hassan Hamdy
Published: October 2024

The hybrid vertical-axis wind turbine is a unique design that overcomes the efficiency limitations of Savonius rotors and the start-up challenges of Darrieus rotors. This study uses the Taguchi optimization method to enhance the performance of a cluster of three hybrid Darrieus-Savonius vertical-axis wind turbines. The optimized parameters include distances between adjacent turbine centers, configuration angles, rotational directions, and the pitch angle. The study is the first to investigate the effect of varying the pitch angle of Darrieus airfoil blades on hybrid design performance. The optimal configuration of the three hybrid VAWTs and the isolated rotor is analyzed through flow velocity, pressure, and turbulence kinetic energy contours. The results show that the pitch angles have the greatest effect on the rated power coefficient among other studied influencing parameters. The optimal cluster configuration’s performance improvement is due to the favorable velocity gradient around the blades. Compared to the isolated rotor, the power coefficient enhancement for the optimal case is 46.545% at the rated tip speed ratio of 3.08. The hybrid rotor in the cluster can achieve almost the same power as the isolated rotor up to a tip speed ratio of 4.1 instead of 2.86 for the isolated rotor. However, the decrease in overall efficiency for some cluster configurations is due to wake flow intensity and trapping between the rotors, which causes a stagnation zone.
A comparative Analytical Investigation of Different Geomagnetic Storms During Solar Cycles 23 and 24
Authors: Breber Salma H. , Hadi Khalid A.
Published: October 2024

In this work, the geomagnetic storms that occurred during solar cycles 23 and 24 were classified based on the value of the Disturbance Storm Time index (Dst), which was considered an indicator of the strength of geomagnetic conditions. The special criterion of Dst >-50 nT was adopted in the classification process of the geomagnetic storms based on the minimum daily value of the Dst-index. The number of geomagnetic storms that occurred during the study period was counted according to the adopted criteria, including moderate storms with (Dst >-50 nT), strong storms with (Dst >-100 nT), severe storms with (Dst >-200 nT), and great storms with (Dst >-350 nT). The statistical results showed that the total number of geomagnetic storms identified during solar cycle 23 was 571 storms, while during solar cycle 24, the number of storms decreased to 282 storms. Depending on the minimum value of Dst-index, the geomagnetic storms identified during Cycle 23 were classified into: 446 moderate, 101 strong, 19 severe, and 5 great storms. During Cycle 24, it was classified into: 247 moderate, 34 strong, and 1 severe storm. Also, the results of the study indicated that no storm of either a severe or great type was recorded during the solar cycle 24, given that this cycle witnessed low solar activity. This indicates that solar activity associated with sunspot number (SSN) corresponds to the rate of occurrence and strength of geomagnetic storms of all categories.
Characterization and physiochemical of PCL/extracted collagen blend coated nanostructure Sodium-Alginate substrate for skin tissue engineering application
Authors: khadir Hanan M. , Jabur Akram R. , Kadhim Ishraq A.
Published: October 2024

This study involves fabrication a nano-membrane of collagen and polycarbolactone by electrospinning and depositing into alginate films prepared by casting method to serve as a scaffold for tissue engineering. Collagen extracted from bovine skin showed poor ability to electrospun, so polycaprolactone (PCL), a synthetic polymer commonly used in tissue engineering scaffolds was chosen to improve the electrospinning process and obtain continuous fibers without beads suitable for application in tissue engineering. The scaffolds were analyzed using Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transformtion infrared spectroscopy, swelling degree testing, and wettability measurements. FESEM results showed that blending PCL with collagen led to improving the electrospinning process and obtaining uniform, continuous fibers (with average fiber diameter 44.97 ± 1.61 nm) without beads and more crosslinking compared to the polycarbolactone scaffold. The results of the wettability and degree of swelling also showed the effect of collagen on increasing the hydrophilicity of the scaffold, and reducedthe water contact angle to (66.66°) with degree of swelling (1256%), that making it suitable for tissue engineering applications.
Indoor air quality improvement using developed polymeric membrane filter
Authors: Gaber Ahmed , Mahmoud Hatem , Kagi Naoki , Shokry Hasan
Published: October 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels must be controlled to protect the environment and human health. Previous studies focused on improving indoor air quality (IAQ) by reducing these negative impacts with electrical equipment such as mechanical ventilators and air purifiers; however, passive techniques were lacking. This work develops a prototype membrane filters to improve IAQ by capturing and separating indoor CO2 levels. These filters use polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membranes and activated carbon (AC) as innovative and effective passive materials at four concentrations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to characterize the materials. The effectiveness of CO2 absorption across the four filter types was then assessed through tests conducted in a controlled environment. Subsequently, site monitoring was undertaken to evaluate the most effective filter. The absorption rates of CO2 levels indoors of the developed filters are 17.5%, 8.1%, 4.5%, and 3.4%, respectively, for four filters. The most efficient filter increased absorption efficiency by 47.8% in an unoccupied space and 35.5% in an occupied one. This passive material can be applied in various indoor spaces, including office buildings, residential buildings, and educational facilities, due to its benefits in saving energy and enhancing indoor environmental quality.
Preparation and Characterization of Anti-Microbial Wound Healing Materials from Natural Origins
Authors: Al-Hasani Fatimah J. , Al-Hassani Emad S.
Published: October 2024

Many types of polymers utilized as wound dressings, Polycaprolactone (PCL) displays high degree of biocompatibility as well as biodegradability, the mechanical strength states PCL in the foreground materials used in wound healing therapies. Current work aims to develop new types of wound plaster dressing, a multiple of natural and medical materials (aloe Vera, calendula and phenobarbital) were used to enhance the anti-microbial behavior as well as pain removal during wound healing period. Aloe Vera gels, Calendula extraction, with phenobarbital drug were precipitates on PCL layer in different percentage. Microstructure observation proves that polycaprolactone polymer is good base material supports dressing constituents, wound dressing homogeneity increased due to chemical reactions between the Aloe Vera and other materials. the main elements of dressing (carbon and oxygen) observed from chemical analysis (EDS) which is also showed that using combination of natural plants (aloe vera and Calendula) with phenobarbital medicine create wound plaster layer with wide range of active elements lead to therapeutic effects including antibacterial, In (FTIR) the results show using mixture of natural additives (aloe, calendula), medicine like phenobarbital in PCL lead to create wound plaster with high (OH) content acts to expedite the skin’s healing process by maintaining the natural level of minerals and hydration at wound area. Hydrophobicity of wound can minimized when adding some hydrophilic materials like Aloe Vera, phenobarbital and calendula, Aloe Vera gel, phenobarbital, as well as calendula decrease the contact angle value. Providing high adhesion between wound plaster and skin tissue. All prepared wound plaster has same and high resistance to Staphylococcus bacteria (40mm).
Implementation of a performance management system for environmental sustainability in an industrial organization
Authors: Rada E.C. , Nicolae I.C. , Zerbes M.V. , Tulbure A. , Karaeva A. , Torretta V. , Giurea R.
Published: October 2024

The paper explores the implementation of process performance management systems in the automotive industry, specifically focusing on improving the assembly line of an organization within this sector thanks to the introduction of cobots in the line of manufacturing electronic modules used in car seat control systems. With an emphasis on environmental sustainability and circular economy (CE) concepts, the study investigates the positive effects of optimizing mechanical and electromechanical systems within the assembly line. Leveraging concepts such as KAIZEN and Gemba Kaizen, along with the guiding principles of Just-In-Time (JIT), Continuous Improvement and Automation with a Human Touch (JIDOKA), the research aims to elucidate the potential benefits of such enhancements. Key performance indicators (KPIs) including Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), First Pass Yield (FPY), and scrap rates were considered. Rejects, primarily stemming from human error in part handling, emerged as the major challenge facing this assembly line. To address this issue, collaborative robots were introduced to automate part handling, replacing manual processes with precise and reliable automation. Before the implementation, the cycle time stood at 13.6 units, which was reduced to 12.5 units post-implementation, resulting in a significant increase in productivity equating to 3000 more parts produced per week. OEE increasing from 80% to 87.74%, FPY rising from 96.42% to 98.48%, and the scrap rate decreasing from 0.06% to 0.02%. By addressing inefficiencies at the assembly line level, organizations can achieve significant improvements in performance metrics while concurrently contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Computational Study of Moth-Eye Structures for Silicon Solar Cells Lights Harvesting Improvement
Authors: Jasim Ethar S. , Khaleel Imad H.
Published: October 2024

Recently Moth-Eye nanostructure is widely used in solar cell light harvesting enhancement, in this computational work, three different designs; rectangular, triangular, and semi-circular structures were introduced as anti-reflect structures placed above a silicon solar cell, anti-reflected nanostructured modeled and optimized for silicon ultra-thin film solar cells using the finite difference time domain method for optical, and Lumerical devise software for electrical properties study. The effect of the geometrical dimension of the three structures was investigated. It is found that light-harvesting and solar cell performance can be enhanced by choosing a suitable structure and dimension for the suggested structure. The optimum efficiency enhancement achieved was by a semi-circular structure with a radius of 200nm from 8.81% to 11.95%.
Preparing polymeric materials with high water absorption and studying their properties
Authors: Alioui Mohammed K. , Ahmed Adnan R. , Hossain Randa K.
Published: October 2024

In this study, the absorbency of the polymer prepared from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethylene glycol (PEG) and chitosan was measured, and tests of SEM, FTIR, and UV, as well as the mechanical properties related to tensile strength and elongation, were examined. The results of the SEM test showed that the polymer has a homogeneous structure without any defects or voids. Additionally, the surface roughness was observed, which is attributed to the addition of PEG, as it alters the surface morphology. The prepared polymer exhibited a high capacity to absorb large amounts of water over long periods of time. Furthermore, the tensile and elongation tests revealed that the addition of silver nanoparticles to the prepared polymer enhances its tensile strength
Green synthesis of nano silver-modified date syrup 3D graphene for adsorptive removal of heavy metals from wastewater and its antibacterial efficiency
Authors: Alazzawi Ali H , Abed Mayyadah S , Al-Tamimi Basma H
Published: October 2024

Many researchers are focusing on the eco-friendly and cost-effective green synthesis of materials for removing heavy metals from wastewater using materials made from natural sources. In this research, date syrup was used as a rich carbon source while potassium chloride particles were used as a substrate. Green synthesized silver nanoparticles modified the graphene foam to enhance its heavy metal removal and antibacterial efficiency. The morphology and structure of the graphene foam were examined using scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method examines textural features such as surface area, pore volume and diameter. The study focused on evaluating the efficiency of removing heavy metals including cadmium, lead, zinc, and chromium from water. The results indicated that the date syrup graphene foam has high heavy metal removal efficiency despite the short contact time, especially for Cd2+ and Pb2+, with removal efficiencies of 68% and 39%, respectively. It shows a relatively lower efficacy for Zn2+ and Cr2+, with removal efficiencies of 10% and 27%, respectively. The addition of silver nanoparticles greatly improved the removal efficiency of Cd2+ (75%), Zn+2 (22%), and Cr2+ (33%). Moreover, the antibacterial efficacy test showed significant improvement after the nanosilver modification to reach a 100% bacterial-killing rate.
Assessing the impact of Ag: TiO2 and Ag: ZrO2 nanoparticles on the flexural strength of self-cured denture base resin
Authors: Erhim Eman Alwan , Abbood Manal A. , Halbos Halemah T.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the effect of silver, titanium dioxide, and silver, Zirconium dioxide nanoparticles on the flexural strength of self-cured denture base resin. The samples were divided into four groups according to the addition of different nanoparticles to the self-cured acrylic PMMA. Control group A, reinforcement group B (Ag + TiO2), reinforcement group C (Ag + ZrO2) and reinforcement group D (Ag + TiO2 + ZrO2). The samples were again divided into three subgroups according to the nanoparticulate addition ratio of 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 wt.% TiO2 and ZrO2 each with a fixed ratio of 0.3wt.% Ag as antimicrobial. Excluding group D addition, it was 0.05, 0.15, 0.25 wt.% for both TiO2 and ZrO2 with 0.3 wt.% Ag. After immersing the samples in distilled water for 48h, the flexural strength was measured using the three-point bend test. Evaluation of flexural strength showed a significant decrease with an increasing percentage of nanoparticles, except the increase in the percentage of additions of ZrO2 showed an increase in flexural strength. The samples underwent X-ray diffraction examination and FESEM to describe nanoparticles and examine the structure of acrylic samples. X-ray diffraction revealed the absence of mistake diffraction, indicating high crystal structure purity. In addition, images from the scanning electron microscope showed a homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles within the acrylic structure. Maximum flexural strength was seen in the 0.3 wt.% Ag-0.15 wt.% TiO2-15 wt.% ZrO2 and minimum in 0.3 wt.% Ag -0.5 wt.% TiO2. The modified samples also exhibited colour changes. We conclude flexural strength value depends on the percentage of additions and type of nanoparticles.
The Law of the Total Pressure Loss in Supersonic Streamwise Corner Flow
Authors: Yang Rui , Jin Jiahui , Zhao Yuxin
Published: October 2024

The total pressure loss is a critical issue in the design of internal flow channels for hypersonic vehicles. In the flow through the streamwise corner region, the adjacent walls induce secondary flows that exacerbate the viscous effects, thereby intensifying the total pressure loss. This study investigates the impact of the corner’s dihedral angle and the compressibility of the flow on the total pressure loss in the streamwise corner region. The results indicated that as the dihedral angle increases, the distribution of the total pressure contour in the corner region became significantly distorted. The proportion of the boundary layer area within the corner region concurrently increased as the dihedral angle deviates from 90 degrees. Furthermore, we deduce that the total pressure loss is the largest in the supersonic flat plate boundary layer. This paper normalized the total pressure loss coefficient for different dihedral angles in the corner region and established an empirical relationship for the distribution of normalized total pressure loss coefficients along the flow path. It is discovered that under supersonic inflow conditions, the distribution law of the total pressure loss in the corner region exhibits higher predictive accuracy.
Study of the C-γ-Reθ Transition Model Based on the NNW-HyFLOW Software
Authors: Wang Xinguang , He Kun , Zhang Yifeng , Chen Qi , Wan Zhao
Published: October 2024

Since the release of hypersonic computational fluid software NNW-HyFLOW in 2023, its computational modules have been continuously expanded for the development needs of hypersonic vehicles. The C-γ-Reθ transition model has been developed based in the framework of the NNW-HyFLOW to expand the prediction of transition in the design of high-speed vehicles. Firstly, the calibration of two basic relations of Re
θc
and Flength
which is originally designed for the low-speed flat plate cases have been realized and expanded to high-speed flows. Secondly, the the empirical formula of Mach number correction has been adjusted by several typical high-speed transition cases. The same correction also has been made to the turbulence Prandtl number correction following the sae procedure. A crossflow transition module has been added with the calibration of the crossflow Reynolds number and validation of the experiment data of the HyTRV lifting body. The numerical tests show that the C-γ-Reθ transition model based on NNW-HyFLOW software has been basically realized with the ability of steamwise transition and crossflow transition prediction.
Effect of Flow Deflector on the Aerodynamic Performance of the S809 Airfoil
Authors: Zhao Long , Zhong Junwei , Tang Jun , Liu Huizhong
Published: October 2024

Airfoil stalls at large angles of attack (AoAs), creating flow separation, which directly deteriorates the aerodynamic performance. Numerical simulations were utilized to study a new passive flow control technique for wind turbines. This flow control technique is named flow deflector (FD) and mounted above the leading-edge of the S809 airfoil. The aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoils at Re=1×106 were analyzed by varying the structural parameters of the FD. The findings indicate that the FD significantly enhances the aerodynamic characteristic of the airfoil at large AoAs. The stall angle is delayed by a maximum value of 6°. Appropriate structural parameters can enable the FD to perform more effectively. The FD with a width of 0.02c, a normal direction position of 0.12c, a chordwise direction position of 0, a deflection angle of 75° and a single flat plate is recommended.
Study on the Annual Extreme Distribution of Wave Load of River-to-Sea Ships
Authors: Xu Lijun , Deng Le , Chen Yini
Published: October 2024

According to the wave scatter diagram of the river-to-sea specific route waters, the applicability of the method about predicting the annual extreme wave bending moment in DNV Note 30.6 to river-to-sea ships is discussed, by using the Wave loads Calculation System (WALCS), and a method applicable to the river-to-sea ships to determine the annual extreme wave bending moment is proposed: considering the ship type and wave scatter diagram, the sea state corresponding to the annual extreme wave bending moment is to be determined by comparing the results of short-term prediction of wave loads, and based on the short-term Rayleigh distribution prediction results, the annual extreme distribution of wave bending moment, which is obeying the Gumbel distribution, is to be determined using sequence statistical method.
Adsorption Performance and Photocatalytic Activity of La-TiO2@kaolin Composites
Authors: Zhan Zhixing , Peng Fuchang , Liu Jingjing , Liu Qiaochu , Yan Yue’e
Published: October 2024

La-TiO2@kaolin(LTK) composites were prepared via sol-gel method with kaolin, lanthanum nitrate and tetrabutyl titanate as raw materials. The samples were characterized by XRD, SEM/EDS, and UV-Vis. The visible light photocatalytic reduction activity and adsorption performance of samples for Cr(VI) were studied. The results showed that La doping can refine TiO2 grains, stabilize phase structure of anatase TiO2, and expand its absorption spectrum, thereby enhancing its photocatalytic reduction activity. Due to the composite of kaolin, the dispersion of TiO2 is improves and it is endowed with a large specific surface area lead to enhance its adsorption ability for Cr(VI). The adsorption equilibrium process of LTK for Cr(VI) conforms to the Langmuir equation model. The coupling effect of doping and composite modification improves the adsorption and visible light catalytic reduction activity of Cr(VI) over composite material samples. The adsorption-photocatalytic removal rate of LTK for Cr(VI) under visible light irradiation for 6 hours reached the highest of 96.5%. The apparent first-order kinetic constant of its photocatalytic reduction reaction was 2.6 times that of pure TiO2.
Study on the Mechanical Response Behavior of X80 Pipeline Steel Welding Structure under Tensile Stress
Authors: Wu Gang , Tang Jianfeng , Luo Jinheng , Li Lifeng
Published: October 2024

The weld joint is composed of the weld area and the heat-affected area. The heterogeneity of the organizational structure will lead to local strain mismatch and affect its mechanical properties. This paper studies the strain distribution characteristics of the weld area and the heat-affected area under tensile stress, and reveals the respective strain response mechanism of the two regions. It is found that the weld area has lower yield strength and hardness, greater uniform elongation and strain hardening index. The plastic strain of the weld joint under tensile stress is highly heterogeneous, and the strain response mechanism is mainly based on the processing hardening effect. The strain response of the heat-affected area is weak and is affected by grain-oriented hardening. The research results provide a theoretical basis and experimental basis for the design of pipeline steel welding process and the safety evaluation under plastic deformation conditions.
Experimental Study on Surface Residual Stress and Surface Roughness of Inconel718 Cutting
Authors: Liu Qimeng , Liu Jie , Jin Xinghe , Wang Xiaoying
Published: October 2024

This thesis focused on the experimental study of surface residual stress and surface roughness of Inconel718 for cutting processing. Based on cutting theory, the cutting parameters’ effects on surface residual stress and roughness were analyzed through single-factor cutting experiments. The experimental results showed that: in the experimental parameters under constant conditions, Inconel718 processing surface residual stress with a rise in cutting speed in gradual decrease, with a rise in feeding speed and cutting depth in gradual increase; processing surface roughness Ra and Rz value with a rise in cutting speed in gradual decrease, with a rise in feeding speed and cutting depth in gradual increase. Consequently, the experimental results for Inconel718 cutting and processing technology provide a process basis.
Research on the Effect of Deflection Secondary Air on Slagging in Coal Fired Boilers
Authors: Zhang Suli
Published: October 2024

In response to the slagging phenomenon in coal-fired boilers, the combustion characteristics of pulverized coal and the effect of deflected secondary air on slagging in a 350MW Corner-tangentially-fired boiler are numerically investigated by the commercial software. The research results indicate that when the deflection secondary air (CFS air) volume increases, the tangential diameter will significantly increase, and the degree of influence is higher than the angle, which has a significant impact on wall temperature and smoke wall brushing. Only adjusting the CFS wind angle or wind volume has a relatively small impact on particle wall brushing; When CFS wind is superimposed with large Angle and high air volume, the temperature and the degree of smoke brushing near the water wall will be significantly increased, and the risk of slag formation on the water wall will be magnified.
Promoting the Renewable Energy Zones by implementing the photovoltaic panels in an industrial building
Authors: Guri Merita , Rusi Ilda , Lazaj Dashnor
Published: October 2024

Environmental protection depends on energy production and use, which are responsible for ∼94% of carbon emissions. The lack of sufficient energy resources has led EU countries to alternatives for Green Energy production. Albania’s national response to climate change has been limited to some small changes mainly in the sector of the integrated water and environmental management legislation. However, in terms of changing the energy law, no effort has been made to prioritize green energy production. Doing so it is expected to contribute to the overall goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the integration of clean energy solutions. The paper is referred to a specific case study focused on renewable energy using photovoltaic panels in an industrial building in Saranda, as the city with the most hours of sunshine per year in Albania. To support renewable energy initiatives, it is being emphasized with the help of statistical methods that Saranda has strong potential to invest in energy production through solar panels, which give rise to long-term renewable energy solutions. In summary, there are being identified three main factors that seemed to contribute to the results of national renewable energy solutions: 1) Creating renewable energy zones, 2) Installing solar panels for electricity generation 3) Enforcing regulations. In such conditions when energy of any kind is the most demanded product, green energy is the best way to manage it. It is being used in any country, but especially in Albania, which has a high average of sunny days, compared to other European countries, is an immediate requirement and, as such it should be stripped of it all useless bureaucracies to enable a higher production of it, even with state subsidies. But development will also have to overcome the above issue by adapting to energy production in small units where bureaucratic hurdles are even smaller.
Implementing resilience in sustainable building design: Testing selected resilience criteria in a case study
Authors: Felicioni Licia , Lupíšek Antonín , Gaspari Jacopo
Published: October 2024

Climate change is causing unprecedented changes in precipitation, extreme temperatures, and weather-related threats. Without effective intervention, these changes are expected to escalate in the coming years, potentially causing substantial damage to buildings. Paradoxically, the buildings themselves possess the potential to both exacerbate and alleviate climate change. To achieve a balance, the design of the building must adhere to minimal sustainability standards, taking into account resilience. Popular building rating systems, currently skewed towards sustainability, often neglect resilience principles. This paper aims to assess five selected resilience criteria from a new module incorporated into an existing building certification system, SBToolCZ. Validation occurs through a multi-residential building case study in Prague, evaluating the effectiveness of the criteria in terms of feasibility, accuracy, consistency, and time/data requirements. The results of this criteria test determine the clarity, achievability, and informativeness of the selected criteria. If gathering information and meeting benchmarks within a specific time frame proves challenging, adjustments to the criteria may be necessary for attainability and specificity. Integrating resilience features into sustainability rating systems, typically used in the early stages of design, can encourage designers to incorporate resilience into their projects. This proactive approach could lead to long-term reductions in environmental, social, and economic impacts, especially during weather-related hazards.
Circularity assessment in buildings and built environment: an integrated multiscale framework
Authors: Tucci Fabrizio , Baiani Serena , Altamura Paola , Antonini Marco , Cutaia Laura
Published: October 2024

Circular transition requires systematic interventions in the built environment, particularly at the urban level, to close resource loops locally. The adoption of a design-operational approach focused on the life-cycle perspective and circularity, in line with the Green Building Approach, at the same time responds to resource scarcity and cuts CO2 emissions in the regeneration and integration of urban settlements. In this view, the dimension of the urban neighbourhood offers an ideal field of experimentation to test and scale up circular strategies and solutions, starting from the building scale. The contribution reports the results of an ongoing research whose aim is to propose a methodology to identify basic characteristics and performances allowing a neighbourhood to be defined as circular, and to promote their spread through design both in regeneration and new construction. Thus, the research addresses an important gap due to the limited number of studies on circularity metrics at the neighbourhood scale. From a methodological point of view, the research analyses a selection of case studies and, in parallel, existing circularity metrics at different levels, systematizing them with a set of indicators coming from sustainability protocols at the neighbourhood scale. The research therefore defines an integrated multiscale framework supporting circular design and assessment, valid at the building level but also - in a multiscale perspective - at the neighbourhood level, aiming to develop a support tool for public administrations and designers.
Mapping the climate impact of construction processes: a case study from Denmark
Authors: Hasselsteen Lea , Kanafani Kai
Published: October 2024

Construction processes comprise a significant proportion of a building’s embodied carbon and resource consumption. Life cycle assessments (LCAs) allow for calculating impacts from embedded materials throughout a building’s life cycle. However, research on life cycle modules related to transport (A4) and the construction installation process (A5) is limited. Current studies suggest that construction processes contribute between 5 and 18.5% of the climate impact but lack consistent methodological approaches and exhibit variable background data, hindering clear comparisons. This study aims to establish a basis for comparison by conducting a comprehensive LCA for a multifamily residential from Denmark, including the construction phases. Site-specific data for the case study, including transportation details, grid-based energy metering, and hauling tickets, were directly provided by the building contractor, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of data collection. The study shows that construction processes contribute 12.3% to the studied residential building’s whole-life carbon emissions (WLC). Approximately 62.5% of the total carbon emissions are attributable to upfront emissions and, thus, are emitted before the building’s occupancy, indicating significant potential for immediate emission mitigation measures. The study’s insights into carbon emissions related to construction activities highlight transportation and waste management as substantial contributors. This offers pathways for emission monitoring and facilitates a framework for further exploration to mitigate carbon emissions during the construction phase.
Type III Environmental Product Declarations – The perils and pitfalls of digitalization
Authors: Brisson Stapel Emilie , Balouktsi Maria , Grau Sørensen Christian , Birgisdottir Harpa
Published: October 2024

Recent research highlights buildings as significant contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, entailing the implementation of legally binding CO2 limits for several countries and a widespread adoption of environmental product declarations (EPDs). While PDF remains the common EPD format, the emergence of the digital ILCD+EPD format introduces start to play a more significant role. The format introduces complexities, posing uncertainties and challenges in effectively managing product data and integrating them into LCA software applications. Despite this, persistent challenges in transparency and comparability underscore the need for robust methodologies to ensure reliable material assessments. Limited literature exists on the applicability and comprehension of the ILCD+EPD format, prompting this study’s exploration, using the Web API from the European umbrella organization, the ECO Platform Portal. By compiling digital EPD files into a standard schema, the study aims to scrutinize the format for enhanced reliability and usability. The study assesses a total of 12,962 datasets from the ECO Platform Portal, revealing discrepancies in compliance and documentation, with adjustments made to ensure accuracy. Notably, 17 datasets were removed due to unknown compliance with EN15804, 2097 datasets were expired, 330 datasets were lacking important information of expiration and functional unit, and 66 datasets were removed due to invalid units unsuitable for building-LCAs This resulted in a total of 10,452 datasets, with 29% allocated to EN15804+A1 and 71% to EN15804+A2. Embracing the ILCD+EPD format enhances EPD effectiveness and improves sustainability practices but requires efforts to address data extraction challenges and inconsistencies.
Global Warming Potential as Key Performance Indicator to steer renovation strategies for the built environment
Authors: Cannaviello Monica , Georgiana Aenoai Roxana , Merola Marica , Portella Palmachiara
Published: October 2024

The 2050 climate neutrality target has to deal with the challenge of upgrading the existing, highly energy-intensive building stock into a highly efficient one. Long-term renovation strategies aimed not only at optimizing operational energy, but also at reducing embodied energy and carbon are needed to facilitate the transition to a low CO2 emission. All measures adopted by the EU go in this direction and promote the use of indicators such as the Global Warming Potential (GWP) to quantify emissions from the operational phase and those embodied in building materials from cradle to grave. Material choice will play a key role. This paper analyzes the use of GWP as a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) to evaluate sustainability of building envelope renovations in relation to the materials used. In particular, GWP was used to compare the emissions associated with different solutions for insulating an existing wall to meet ZEB standards. The comparison was made between traditional thermal insulating materials and those made from recycled material, to highlight the benefits of circular design strategies that aim to reuse materials for the reduction of primary raw materials and waste. The GWP approach can be a useful decision support tool for designers, stakeholders and policy makers.
Upscaling bio-based products: poplar and hemp for soil and building circular synergies
Authors: Zatta Elisa , Ferraioli Elena , Bernard Elisa
Published: October 2024

The paper illustrates the rationale of an ongoing research aimed at identifying innovative applications for poplar- and hemp-based products in constructive systems, focusing on load-bearing poplar plywood elements and hemp blocks and panels for the building envelope. The underlying approach extends the circular-based perspective from the building component scale to the territorial and economic one, adopting a context-wise approach. The potential of these renewable materials is examined beyond the application to reversible building systems, to depict their comprehensive contribution to a carbon-neutral region by examining the links with the local territorial management and a potential short supply chain. The contribution describes poplar and hemp agricultural productions, connecting their outputs to several economic sector. After addressing the environmental benefits, the two cultivations produce in terms of climate change mitigation and adaptation, among which carbon uptake, it contextualises poplar- and hemp-based products within current bio-based solutions in the building sector, exploring possible applications in new and existing constructions through circular constructive systems. The results discussion outlines the sustainable multiscale synergies supported by poplar- and hemp-based building products within the research perimeter.
Innovative Timber Upcycling: Digital Strategies for Prolonging Timber Lifespan and Promoting Reuse.
Authors: Cognoli Roberto , Lorenzo Cocco Pio , Ruggiero Roberto
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the intersection of digital and ecological transitions, crucial for achieving the European Green Deal’s sustainability targets. The construction sector, traditionally reliant on a linear “take-make-dispose” model, is gradually integrating timber, favored for its lower environmental impact compared to steel and concrete. Our research enhances the reuse of timber from demolition sites, leveraging digital technologies to extend the lifespan of timber elements and improve its carbon sequestration capabilities. This research is part of a broader initiative, the DeDa research, at the School of Architecture and Design, University of Camerino, focusing on sustainable material management in post-disaster areas. These areas, seen as ‘material banks,’ pose unique challenges due to the abundance of materials that are difficult to manage. The research comprises three integrated phases: establishing a digital material bank of timber elements, design optimization with available elements and their automated assembly. This system is underpinned by an ecosystem of digital technologies, including photogrammetric surveying, computational design, and robotic manufacturing. Considering the currently low technological level of conventional building processes, this work maintains a highly experimental character. However, presenting this research provides an opportunity to explore how digital technologies might promote circular-based building processes and encourage a shift in perspective and practices within the building industry.
Wood-based policies as a driver for the climate transition
Authors: Rusen Mădălina , Reichert Sabina , Elisei Pietro
Published: October 2024

In the context of global accelerating urbanization, the total floor area of buildings is expected to double by 2060, with a significant impact on the environment. While cities made consistent progress towards increasing energy efficiency, accounting for, and reducing embodied emissions for new and renovated constructions represents one critical priority for mitigating this impact and reaching genuine carbon neutrality. Wood is a renewable and carbon-positive material, which can have a meaningful contribution to changing paradigms on net-zero carbon ambitions of cities, but still faces the challenge of an immature integration into urban development policy framework. Through the Horizon 2020 “Build-in-Wood” project we addressed the challenge of translating novel wood building systems, pilots, wood value chains for the construction of multi-storey wood buildings, and promising practices into policy. As a result, we formulate transferable lessons learned, recommendations, and criteria that can serve as guidance for municipalities and policymakers who aim to channel their efforts toward creating a more sustainable built environment by prioritizing wood, either implicitly or explicitly. We achieved this by working on understanding the real needs of cities and territories, the drivers, and the key entry points and preconditions for new policies supporting multi-storey wood buildings and genuine carbon neutrality. Specifically, the findings are based on the close collaboration with seven affiliated cities (Early Adopter Cities in Europe), outlining and integrating the results of (i)Multi-criterial urban planning, strategic and regulatory context analysis, (ii)Participatory and co-design approaches implemented with their local stakeholder ecosystem from the wood construction value chains and (iii)Research of different best practice policies at national, regional and local level from different parts of the globe, that incentives through informative, financial, research or regulatory instruments building with wood. The entire process is presented in the form of a Build-in-Wood Policy Catalogue [1], offering insights on working with Early Adopter Cities and guidance for improving policy, governance, and the decision-making process for subnational governments. The research was not intended to be exhaustive in documenting all existing policies because of the field’s dynamics, but rather to provide an overview and understanding of different policy instruments’ applicability and potential impact.
A regenerative design approach to address Carbon Neutrality in construction. Methods and Tools to assess the ecological reliability of construction process.
Authors: Lucanto Domenico , Catalano Eliana
Published: October 2024

The ongoing research at the inter-university center ABITAlab focuses on the transition toward carbon neutrality in the construction sector, emphasizing technological innovation with advanced materials using biogenic and bio-based materials to enhance sustainability indicators towards energy transition and carbon neutrality. The project aims to assess the ecological reliability of such materials, namely their ability to maintain long-term performance and minimize environmental impact. The adopted methodology utilizes Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to distinguish between the ecological profile, which considers the ecological footprint of the material, and the environmental profile, which evaluates the overall environmental impact. This approach addresses two critical aspects: the temporal durability of the materials and their effectiveness in decarbonization. The research provides an experimental and technological response to conditions of uncertainty, proposing architectural solutions that integrate principles of circularity and innovation, as demonstrated in the case study of the People Pavilion in Eindhoven. This study suggests pathways for future research aimed at applying these principles in diverse contexts and analyzing their economic and environmental impacts, including implications for the construction market.
Advancements in green-synthesized transition metal/metal-oxide nanoparticles for sustainable wastewater treatment: techniques, applications, and future prospects
Authors: Alam Mir Waqas , Ambikapathi Ramya , Nabi Shazia , Nivetha A , Abebe Buzuayehu , Almutairi Hayfa Habes , Sadaf Shima , Almohish Salam Mohammed
Published: October 2024

In order to meet the demand for portable water and replenish depleting water resources caused by industrialization, urbanization, and population growth; wastewater purification has become crucial. Emerging contaminants (ECs), which include organic dyes, pesticides, pharmaceutical drugs, polyaromatic compounds, heavy metal ions, and fertilizers, among others, have caused significant disruptions to environmental balance and severe health complications. As a result, considerable effort has been devoted to the development of technologies that eliminate wastewater from effluents via adsorption, photocatalysis, and other means. However, considering the economic and environmental implications of the adopted technologies, green technology has gained significant attention owing to their eco-friendly approaches, cost-effectiveness, avoiding use of toxic and harmful chemicals and production of less-toxic by-products. Currently green-synthesized nanomaterials have seen tremendous growth in emerging as sustainable nanoadsorbents, nanocatalysts for the removal of the emerging contaminants from wastewater in highly efficient and eco-friendly manner. Thus, this review presents an overview of the various techniques utilized in wastewater treatment with a particular emphasis on the production and application of environmentally friendly transition metal/metal oxide nanoparticles as sustainable tools in wastewater treatment technology. This article also discusses the limitations and future potential of using green-synthesized transition metal/metal oxide based nanoparticles in advancing the technology on a broad scale.
Multifunctional tri-electrode sensors for the measurement of displacement, force, and infrared irradiation
Authors: Chani Muhammad Tariq Saeed , Karimov Khasan S , Fatima Noshin , Alzahrani Khalid Ahmed , Kamal Tahseen , Abdel-Fadeel Mohamed A , Marwani Hadi M
Published: October 2024

Here we described the effect of displacement, force and infrared irradiation on the resistance and impedance of tri-electrode multifunctional sensors. These sensors are based on the gel type composite of carbon nanotubes (CNT), nickel phthalocyanine (NiPc) and edible oil. The channel of this tri-electrodes (field effect transistors) structure is made of CNT-NiPc-oil gel composite using rubbing-in technology. The tri-electrode sensors’ response depends upon the direction of force/displacement and shows an anisotropy. Application of force or displacement from the top causes to decrease resistance and the impedance and vice versa in case of applying force or displacement from the side. The displacement and force sensitivities were up to −273.3 Ω μm−1 and −46.5 Ω gf−1 from the top and 480.0 Ω μm−1 and 3.1 × 102 Ω gf−1 from the side, respectively, for the sensing ranges 0–150 μm and 0–215 gf. Under the effect of the infrared irradiation from any direction the impedance and the resistance of the sensor reduces. On changing infrared irradiation intensity from 0 to 2500 W m−2 the sensitivities from top and side of the sensor were −37.4 Ωm2 W−1 and −16.5 Ωm2 W−1, respectively. The investigated sensors may potentially be used as prototypes to develop gel-electronic-based shockproof sensors. The technological achievement in fabricating these devices is the consumption of environmentally friendly materials, particularly edible oil (organic). The edible oil allows to formulate uniform composite gel-films, that may not be comprehended only by ingredients mixing. The fabricated sensors are highly attractive for commercialization.