bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROCK FALL STUDY IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF SOUTHWEST ANGOLA
Authors: Andrade Pedro Santarem , Kaula Elsa
Published: December 2024

In this work, a rock fall assessment was carried out in two distinct areas in southwest Angola. One is located next to Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Monte in the urban area of Lubango. The other area is located on the road between the city of Lubango and the tourist area of Tundavala. The rock mass of the first area belongs to the Tundavala Formation of the Chela Group and consists of quartzitic-sandstone with a sub-horizontal bedding attitude. The rock mass in the second area is composed of quartzitic-sandstone and red siliceous volcaniclastic rocks belonging to the Chela Group. Precipitation and anthropogenic action were defined as important causes for the occurrence of rock falls. Several slope sections were used to run rock fall analysis. The slope profiles and the origin, dimension and paths of the falling rocks were defined and studied using the Rocfall software of Rocscience packages. For each slope section different simulations were performed, assuming two different mass values for each seeder positions. It was observed that the characteristics associated with the coefficients of restitution and the friction angle of the materials that make up the slopes correspond to determining factors for the trajectory, speed, and bounces of the falling rock blocks. The existing rock fall can cause vehicular damage and cause human injury. Slope stabilization procedures are proposed based on the results of the rock fall assessment.
DEVELOPING THE PRACTICAL SKILLS OF RESCUERS FOR INTERVENTIONS IN HIGH TEMPERATURE AREAS
Authors: Pupazan Daniel , Gireada Andrei Lucian , Gaman George Artur , Ilie Cosmin , Nicolescu Cristian
Published: December 2024

In the case of dangerous incidents produced in industrial technological processes, where hydrogen is used, their mastery requires, in addition to a personnel servicing the facilities properly trained for such situations, the participation of professional staff for interventions in dangerous environments.
The activity of intervention and rescue in special conditions, in potentially explosive areas due to the appearance of hydrogen can be carried out exclusively by specialized personnel trained and authorized in this regard, personnel using individual breathing protection devices.
The critical factor for ensuring the success of an rescue intervention in aggressive toxic or chemical environments consists in the efficient and optimal training process for rescue personnel, in correlation with their testing in environments with high temperatures.
Intervention and rescue operations can be physically and psychologically challenging and require rescue personnel to operate in undesirable conditions, such as potentially toxic/flammable/explosive environments. Personnel involved in intervention and rescue operations may encounter contaminated air environments and are required to wear respiratory protective equipment in order to safely perform rescue operations.
Air temperature and humidity are likely to be high following fires and explosions. Therefore, members of the response and rescue teams face high temperature environments during rescue operations.
DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR OF METHANE IN CONFINED SPACES BY CFD SIMULATION
Authors: Lautaru Vlad , Simion1 Alexandru , Munteanu Laurentiu
Published: December 2024

Gases released because of accidents and events that cause the contamination of certain indoor spaces with methane have become more frequent recently. These gases endanger the lives of people who are inside the contaminated spaces, and there is a need for more and more in-depth research on the dynamic behavior of certain substances with a toxic effect, such as methane, once it begins to accumulate in a closed space, for to develop new detection systems and especially for its evacuation in the shortest possible time from the contaminated space. In this sense, in the paper we analyzed the dynamic behavior of the gas with a toxic and explosive effect, namely methane, through a CFD computer simulation, in a closed space, to analyze the mode and duration of the distribution of methane concentration. To perform the CFD simulation, the physical conditions of a closed space of 50 m2, and with a methane volume of 418.5 liters, were replicated, and the duration of the simulation was 93 minutes. Following the analysis, we developed a technical solution to prevent the spread of methane in closed spaces following an accident/event.
HEALTH AND SAFETY OF WORKERS IN THE MINING INDUSTRY FOLLOWING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Denisa Matei Andrada , Tuhut Ligia Ioana , Simion Morar Marius , Raul Cioara Cristian , Manea Florein
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is well known as a robust technique that can support and improve the quality of human life. In the mining industry, the applications of artificial intelligence have changed the sciences and technologies as well as the performance of the mining industry through machine learning, autonomous technologies that provide many economic benefits to the mining industry by reducing costs, efficiency and improving productivity. In principle, reducing the exposure of workers to hazardous conditions, continuous production and improved safety are the most beneficial factors of the implementation of artificial intelligence in the mining sector, coming to the aid of workers in this field.
In recent years, the adoption of artificial intelligence has changed the game in the mining industry by enabling more efficient exploration, taking automation to new levels, generating higher yields, improving safety and maximizing extraction, maintenance and operational performance.
This paper aims to highlight the multiple advantages that the implementation of artificial intelligence in the mining industry has for the health and safety of mining workers.
IDENTIFICATION OF AREAS PRONE TO SEISMIC ACTIVITY OCCURRENCE USING 3D FEM NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS
Authors: Fulawka Krzysztof , Mertuszka Piotr , Solecki Lech , Szumny Marcin , Kolodziej Roman
Published: December 2024

The seismic hazard in Polish copper mines has remained continuously at a high level, generating a relatively large number of accidents and negatively affecting the continuity of the exploitation process. To minimize the threat, a number of preventive actions are taken to reduce the ability of the rock mass to accumulate stresses, which should ultimately result in a reduction in the number and energy of seismic phenomena. Unfortunately, as previous experience shows, the effectiveness of preventive measures is severely limited due to the lack of reliable information about zones of potential instability. This study presents the results of 3-dimensional numerical simulations developed in stages system, based on which attempts were made to locate zones prone to instability. The analysis was performed for a period of 10 months and the time between each stage was 1 month. For validation purposes, measurements of convergence of mining excavations were used. Then, the strength parameters of the rocks were reduced in accordance with the principles of the GSI scale so that the modelling results were as close as possible to measurements in in-situ conditions. Finally, on the basis of validated numerical models, stress concentration zones in the rock mass were determined and the calculation results were compared with the actual location of seismic phenomena in the analyzed area. Ultimately, the results of the research are the basis for stating that the use of numerical tools can significantly support the process of designing active rockburst preventive opeartions in deep underground mines.
INTERVENTION AND RESCUE IN CONFINED SPACES IN CASE OF POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE AREAS CAUSED BY THE PRESENCE OF HYDROGEN
Authors: Gireada Andrei Lucian , Pupazan Daniel , Gaman Artur George , Nicolescu Cristian , Ilie Cosmin
Published: December 2024

It is essential to adopt appropriate prevention measures to protect workers operating in confined spaces.
Working in confined spaces poses a risk factor for accidents or unwanted events with an impact on human health. Implementation of good practice rules in these situations is a mandatory preventive measure.
A confined space is any location not intended for regular work, has entry or exit restrictions, is under atmospheric pressure, has inadequate ventilation, a risk of drowning or suffocation, a contaminated atmosphere, or an oxygen deficiency.
Therefore, in the case of confined spaces, measures are necessary to protect workers from hostile atmospheres, from materials that may cover them, or other hazards that do not provide safety.
By implementing safety measures, the risk of accidents or unwanted events in confined spaces with potentially explosive atmospheres, cause by the presence of hydrogen, can be significantly reduced, and workers can be efficiently protected against the dangers associated with these work environments.
ROMANIAN COAL AND ENERGY HYBRIDIZATION
Authors: Tomescu Cristian , Boanta Cornel , Chiuzan Emeric , Stanila Sorina
Published: December 2024

The climate, energy, and health crises, alongside the conflict events in Eastern Europe, have generated new directions regarding the perspectives of global and national energy transition, by orienting it towards a decarbonized economy. The increased frequency of climate change-related weather events affects the availability of renewable energy sources (wind and solar) and energy supply security.
The abandonment of fossil fuel-based electricity and heat due to commitments and objectives established in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the 2015 Paris Agreement, and the adoption of policies aiming for climate neutrality, leads to both positive and negative consequences for the economy and population.
The Romanian energy transition will require the reform of the current energy model by combining different classical, traditional sources with renewable ones, resulting in a specific energy mix, i.e., an energy hybridization, and implicitly a Hybrid Energy System.
Currently, Romanian coal accounts for a maximum of 20% in electricity production, and Romania is rated as the fifth lignite consumer in Europe, given the increase in coal consumption worldwide in recent years, reaching record levels at the expense of the growing demand for clean energy sources.
This paper aims, on one hand, to analyze the current situation of Romanian thermal coal extraction in the context of decarbonization, and on the other hand, to explore the perspectives of modernizing the system with clean energies and implementing energy hybridization.
THE CONTINUATION OF THE EXTRACTION OF USEFUL MINERAL SUBSTANCES IN THE CURRENT GEOPOLITICAL CONTEXT
Authors: Matei Adrian , Cioclea Doru , Dragoescu Razvan , Camarasescu Alexandru
Published: December 2024

In the last decade, at the global level, most countries have emphasized the reduction of energy consumption produced with the help of solid fuels, trying to reduce the volume of greenhouse gases and polluting gases by identifying new sources and methods of energy production that have a low effect on the environment and people. Romania is preparing to ensure energy security by producing electricity from renewable sources. Romania's medium- and long-term strategy will be influenced by the European Green Pact, which has ambitious targets for the next period for reducing carbon emissions for each member state. These objectives may also include the recent turbulence in the energy markets in Europe as well as the effects of the conflict in Ukraine. If at the beginning of the implementation of the objectives to reduce the exploitation of useful mineral substances, the geopolitical situation of the world was stable and there were interconnections between the energy-producing states, in 2024 we were faced with a radical change in the global geopolitical context, a change that would require a rethinking of the strategy management of useful mineral resources. The paper presents an analysis, in a global context, of the situation in Romania regarding the production of electricity from solid fuels.
WIND BARRIERS AS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO PM10 EMISSIONS IN INDUSTRIAL PLANTS
Authors: Carbone Stefano , De Brito V.
Published: December 2024

This paper refers on the outcomes of an experimental study developed in an industrial plant in the centre of Italy in which dust emission represents an important annoyance affecting the whole activity and so requiring to be managed in order to guarantee legal compliance but, above all, a safe workplace. This case study consists in the assessment of the efficacy of different reduction measures designed to avoid and, where not possible, to reduce dust emissions from stockpiles. According to a monitoring campaign based on field sampled data, these areas were identified as the most pollutant sources in the plant itself and many solutions were taken into consideration to reduce the emission due to wind erosion. Under these conditions wind fences represent a significant solution to be tested in addition to usual measures which are usually installed. In particular some simulations are performed in order to define the variation of wind velocity all around the stockpile and so to select and design the best solution and configuration to reduce the emission of fugitive dust from stockpiles when caused by wind erosion.
PROBABILISTIC EARTHQUAKE SCENARIOS FOR THE CITY OF VARNA
Authors: Solakov Dimcho , Simeonova Stela , Raykova Plamena
Published: December 2024

In the present study probabilistic earthquake, scenarios for the city of Varna the third-largest earthquake-prone city in Bulgaria are presented.
The probabilistic hazard for a city is obtained by integrating the effects of ground motion from earthquakes of different size occurring at different locations within different seismic source regions and with different frequencies of occurrence.
The ground motion maps for the city of Varna are generated combining via GIS, source geometry, earthquake occurrence model, maximum earthquake magnitude, and the appropriate attenuation relations. The probabilistic scenario maps are created in terms of MSK intensity, Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) and response spectral accelerations for 95- and 475-year return periods. The estimated values of PGA for 95- and 475-year return periods vary along the city from 0.08 to 0.11 and from 0.15g to 0.23g) respectively. For the considered return periods the macroseismic intensity (MSK) vary from 6.4 to 6.8 and from 7.4 to 7.8 (for 95 and 475-year return period respectively).
The main objective of the study is to integrate basic geo-datasets and to assess the seismic hazard using GIS to provide a basis for disaster management of the city of Varna. Spatial distribution of the obtained results is available in GIS format and can be used not only for scientific purposes but also for practical measures to reduce the risk and limit the consequences of a future strong earthquake.
PHYSICAL EXPERIMENTS REGARDING THE LINEAR PROPAGATION OF HYDROGEN EXPLOSIONS IN ENCLOSED SPACES
Authors: Florea Gheorghe Daniel , Vlasin Nicolae Ioan , Simon-Marinica Adrian Bogdan , Cioara Cristian Raul , Munteanu Laurentiu
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen, known for its high flammability and potential explosive characteristics, presents significant challenges in safety engineering, particularly in enclosed spaces where explosions can lead to catastrophic consequences. This paper presents the results of physical experiments conducted to investigate the linear propagation of hydrogen explosions within confined environments. The experiments were designed to simulate real-world scenarios and assess the factors influencing the extent and characteristics of explosion propagation. Various parameters including initial pressure, hydrogen concentration, confinement geometry, and ignition source location were systematically varied to analyze their effects on explosion dynamics. The experimental setup involved controlled release of hydrogen into enclosed spaces followed by ignition under controlled conditions, utilizing a series of friable obstacles. High-speed imaging with use of Schlieren techniques, pressure measurements, and post-explosion analysis techniques were employed to characterize the explosion phenomena. The findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms governing hydrogen explosion propagation in confined spaces and offer implications for enhancing safety measures and designing mitigation strategies in hydrogen-related applications. This research contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field of explosion dynamics and provides a basis for further studies aimed at improving safety standards in hydrogen storage, transportation, and utilization systems.
THE PARTICULARITIES OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT WITH TYPE OF PROTECTION FLAMEPROOF ENCLOSURE USED IN POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES GENERATED BY HYDROGEN
Authors: Fotau Dragos , Moldovan Lucian , Sorin Rasnoveanu , Valentin Sirbu , Salasan Diana
Published: December 2024

Electrical equipment that operates in a potentially explosive atmosphere, have characteristics specially designed for operation in this area. For security reasons, it is essential that the integrity of these special features be preserved in these areas throughout the life of the installation.
Using electric equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres brings forward several particularities therefore the problems that appear during the design, construction and operation of electrical devices and installations brings forward numerous difficulties, their approach requiring special attention considering all the technical, economical and labor safety aspects.
The purpose of the paper is to reveal the particularities of electrical equipment with type of protection flameproof enclosure design to be used in potentially explosive atmospheres generated by hydrogen.
Evaluation of explosion-proof protected electrical equipment in scope of certification is extremely important considering the risk of explosion that has to be minimized in order to ensure life safety and health of workers and to prevent damaging of property and the environment, as well as free movement of goods when they meet the essential safety requirements at European level.
ADDRESSING HYDROGEN SAFETY INSIGHTS AND CHALLENGES BY MEANS OF SOFTWARE TOOLS
Authors: Pasculescu Vlad Mihai , Suvar Marius Cornel , Morar Marius Simion , Munteanu Laurentiu , Vass Zoltan
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen is gaining popularity as a fuel source for more and more fields around the globe. The use of hydrogen for transport represents one of the important applications of this chemical substance, in this sense the development of infrastructures, but especially the safety of hydrogen filling stations representing an important element. Using hydrogen to power transportation can reduce harmful ozone-depleting emissions while improving air quality. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can help improve air quality and solve climate challenges. After all, the only substance that escapes through the tailpipe of a fuel cell vehicle is water. One of the major disadvantages of using hydrogen to fuel vehicles is the high risk of explosion (between 4 and 75% hydrogen mixed with air). Both technical and organizational measures must be taken to prevent and protect against explosions. Technological progress and the development of knowledge in the field of explosion protection have made it possible to develop software tools, open-source and commercial, that can analyze the hazards and adverse consequences that explosion-type events can have. This study presents the applicability of such a software tool, for modeling the hypothetical discharges of untimely hydrogen discharges within a vehicle fueling station, as well as the consequence modelling of such an undesired event.
INTEGRATING GEODETIC UNDERGROUND UTILITY DATASETS WITH BIM: IFC 4.3 FOR IMPROVED STRUCTURAL DESIGN IN POLAND
Authors: Kowalski Mikolaj , Ortyl Lukasz
Published: December 2024

Numerous studies have examined the potential integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), typically focusing on simplifying complex BIM data for presentation within a GIS environment. However, there is a unique circumstance with extensive geodetic databases that remain untapped in construction processes in Poland. The emergence of the more applicable IFC format version 4.3, particularly relevant to surveying, presents an opportunity. The article proposes leveraging geodetic datasets, specifically underground utilities, to enhance BIM-based structural design. A Python-based converter was developed to translate data between the prevalent GML format for geodetic data collection and the IFC schema. The challenges include GML's surveyor-centric design and varying file structures, requiring the conversion tool to be adaptable and robust. Additionally, transforming 2D linear data with height and diameter attributes into 3D spatial representations poses geometry challenges. Presented program�s version can convert GML file to pandas.DataFrame, but some errors are seen in IFC 3D representation. Despite these obstacles, the developed converting tool paves the way for integrating GIS and BIM for underground utilities in Poland, and holds promise for broader application in the future, such as enabling the use of 3D models of underground utilities for infrastructure projects.
A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO GEOMATIC METHODS IN GULLY MONITORING AND ASSOCIATED NATURAL DISASTER PREVENTION
Authors: Bondrea Mircea-Vasile , Radulescu Virgil Mihai , Nas Sanda Marioara , Galgau Raluca Claudia , Radulescu Adrian Traian
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the monitoring of an eroding phenomenon (gully) near Ciurila, Cluj County, Romania, using UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technologies. In this sense, the monitoring results through sustainable and non-invasive technologies are presented, following four cycles of observations, carried out between June 2019 and April 2021. The paper aims to present the advantages and limitations of such a study, as well as the importance of monitoring erosion phenomena (in this case, gullies) for the ecosystem, but also the nearby inhabitants. Software and technologies are used that allow the automatic calculation of the volume of the gully and the displacements between the different measurement cycles, which allows for obtaining objective conclusions and proposing further measures. The paper aims to present a complete cycle of interpretation of the results, from the point of view of the volume calculations and the differences between the measurement cycles. Cost-effective solutions are addressed and presented, to present a complete measurement-analysis-interpretation cycle that will contribute to the early identification of landslides that occur in gully areas. The chosen area is significant from the point of view of its proximity to Cluj Napoca, the second largest city in Romania, as well as its proximity to the inhabited area of Ciurila, which makes this area an area with potential danger for the living environment and safety citizens.
ALGORITHM FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE COORDINATES NEEDED TO SET OBJECTIVES EXTENDING OVER LARGE AREAS
Authors: Vasilca Doina , Biscoveanu Oana-Mihaela
Published: December 2024

Constructions extending over large areas or distances raise problems regarding their setting out, because these elements are determined in the official projection of Romania, namely the 1970 Stereographic map projection. For the territory of our country, this produces distortions from -25 cm/km to approximately +64 cm/km in terms of distances and between -5 sq. m/ha and +12.76 sq. m/ha in terms of areas, depending on the distance from the projection pole and, implicitly, from the circle of zero distortions. For them to be applied on the ground, the coordinates should be calculated in a local projection plane where such distortions are minimal.
In the present work, double map projections were studied in which the surface of the reference ellipsoid was first represented on the surface of a sphere, after which the sphere was represented on the plane using conic, cylindrical, and azimuthal conformal oblique projections. The tangent/secant almucantar was chosen to pass through the centre of the area of interest. Through comparing the distortion values in the studied projections, we determined that the lowest values were obtained in the oblique conformal conic projection.
Furthermore, we proposed an algorithm for converting the coordinates of the points calculated in the official projection of Romania, according to the regulations in force, to the coordinates obtained from a local projection plane, which can then be transposed directly onto the ground.
OPTIMIZED SOLUTION IN ENTERING ZERO-POINT DRIFT CORRECTIONS IN RESULTS FROM RELATIVE GRAVITY MEASUREMENTS
Authors: Djorova Severina
Published: December 2024

The study of a gravimetric network is closely connected with determining the value of the drift on the gravimeter scale (zero-point drift; drift). The realization of a great number of over-measured quantities makes preliminary processing of gravity measurements a hard, slow, and delicate process. The main purpose of this research is to investigate a method that would simplify the overall technology of gravimetric measurement and post-processing of the results obtained. A modification of the commonly adopted adjustment approach is offered, where the velocity of the zero-point drift is introduced as an additional unknown quantity in the parametric adjustment. The options for optimization of the complete program of measuring and processing a gravimetric network are described. The advantages of the applied method are explained. It is shown that this is a more reliable and rational way to process gravimetric measurements. The analysis is supported by an example from a specific and real object. Conclusions and recommendations follow.
ASSESSMENT OF THE RESULTS FROM THE MATTERPORT SYSTEM USING A 360-DEGREE CAMERA
Authors: Honti Richard , Erdelyi Jan , Funtik Tomas
Published: December 2024

Accurate 3D data from indoor environments play a crucial role in construction, indoor navigation, real estate management, and many more applications. Mobile scanning systems, including simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) and mobile devices equipped with LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) and modern techniques like Matterport, provide efficient means to create virtual models of measured objects (and even generate point clouds). However, it is essential to note that the quality of these methods often needs to improve compared to the accuracy achieved by terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). Therefore, assessing results obtained from these systems is essential for utilizing them for 3D data capture. This paper evaluates the Matterport system using a 360-degree camera (Ricoh Theta Z1). The evaluation compares it to survey-grade Terrestrial Laser Scanning point clouds obtained from four distinct test sites, each with varying properties such as size, complexity, and noise levels. The analysis highlights both technical and practical strengths and weaknesses.
COASTAL DUNES UNDER THREAT OF DESTRUCTION: NECESSITIES CONSERVATION AND INCLUSION INTO THE CADASTRAL MAPS AND REGISTRIES OF THE BULGARIAN BLACK SEA COAST
Authors: Prodanov Bogdan , Bekova Radoslava
Published: December 2024

The coastal beach-dune systems along the Bulgarian coast are of significant ecological import, necessitating rigorous monitoring and management. Oversight and dune management inaccuracies have been recurrently identified, particularly within the Bulgarian Black Sea coast cadastral registers. This research highlights discrepancies in depositional areas, such as Asparuhovo-Varna, Byala, Burgas-South, and Poda beach-dune systems. The coastal dunes within these regions have been systematically documented through detailed geomorphological surveys. The results accentuate the urgent necessity for precise documentation and integration of these dune formations into the Specialized Cadastral Maps and Registers. Such measures are imperative to ensure the effective conservation and sustainable management of these critical coastal resources. In conclusion, the comprehensive documentation of the presented examples of coastal dune landforms with a total area of approximately 250 200 m2 in the Specialized Cadastral Registers represents a pivotal step towards ensuring the effective conservation and sustainable management of these ecologically significant habitats. Through collaborative efforts and informed governance, it is possible to strike a delicate balance between preserving natural heritage and fulfilling human needs, thereby securing the long-term viability of coastal ecosystems along the Bulgarian coast.
GEOSTATISTICAL MODELLING OF URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT: ANALYSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAND USE PATTERNS AND LAND SURFACE TEMPERATURE IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
Authors: Onyedikachi Onyedikachi J. , Saheed O. Adurogangan , Samuel J. Adedoyin , Olufisayo Abiala F. , Adedamola F. Isaac
Published: December 2024

Rapid urbanization across Lagos, Nigeria has driven extensive land cover modifications with significant climatic impacts. This study analyzed interlinkages between land use land cover (LULC) transformations and land surface temperature (LST) shifts in the intensely developing Lagos suburb of Ikorodu from 1991-2021 utilizing robust geospatial techniques. Multi-spectral Landsat 5, 7 and 8 data enabled reliable LULC classification into five covers using a Random Forest algorithm. Subsetting the Ikorodu area facilitated localized change analyses across 1991, 2001, 2011 and 2021. LULC changes significantly impacted regional microclimates by altering surface energy budgets. Replacing vegetation with constructed materials increased LSTs while diminishing humidity via lower transpiration. Quantifying alteration magnitudes and spatial patterns provided crucial historical perspectives on urban expansion and climatic changes. Over 30 years, built-up area rose from 14% to 65% while vegetation declined from 52% to 9%, with LST increasing from 23.13�C to 27.21�C. Statistical analyses indicated LST strongly, and positively correlated with a Built-Up Index. Cooling prevailed on semi-rural peripheries with more intact vegetation. This research demonstrates and models LULC-LST interlinkages over years of swift development around Lagos, delivering a framework for crafting sustainable growth policies and balancing modernization goals with ecological stability. Explicit urban heat island effect mitigation strategies combining infrastructural adaptations and green space retention are recommended to promote regional climate resilience.
COMPARISON OF TWO METHODS FOR ASSESSMENT OF PH-DEPENDING VALUES IN SURFACE WATER
Authors: Kovacova Viera
Published: December 2024

The recent advances in current status and major mechanisms of water quality worsening, assessment of evaluation criteria and the influencing factors were reviewed. The changes in the atmosphere, the periodicity of the occurrence of extreme hydrological situations has been increasing in recent years. In the natural conditions of Slovakia, periods without rain are lengthening and the incidence of precipitation of extreme intensity and abundance is increasing. Hydrological extremes are generally manifested in the form of floods and droughts. The increased incidence of drought is a new phenomenon. The analysis was conducted using a long series pH and temperature measurements.
The pH, temperature and conductivity are the most important water quality parameters. Their time-series were used for investigation of pH with regard to the place of collection and seasonal cycle. The pH ranged from 5 to 9, i.e. predominantly in the alkaline area. Average value of pH in the monitored period 2010-2020 was 7.56, One of the most important tools for evaluating water quality and character in a catchment is a detailed knowledge of the ranges and trends in pollution of natural water. This requires water accounting be conducted at the regional scale.
MODELLING OF HYDROMORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES DUE TO THE EFFECT OF FISHING PORT "KARANTINATA"
Authors: Eftimova Petya , alchev Nikolay , Prodanov Bogdan , Andreeva Nataliya , Lambev Todor , Dimitrov Lyubomir
Published: December 2024

Presence of coastal structures usually causes significant impacts to adjacent shores, especially when they are composed of sand. Many times, these impacts are associated with inappropriate design due to inadequate consideration of hydromorphological processes and system interactions. As a result, excessive erosion and/or deposition of sediment is observed, which implies costly, and in some cases, continuous maintenance. The study presents an assessment and gives explanation of significant changes in the morphology of Asparuhovo Beach (Varna Bay, Bulgarian Black Sea coast) occurred immediately after the construction of the fishing port "Karantinata". In only two-year period, the beach adjacent to the facility increased several times in width, significant amount of sediments accumulated on the submerged slope in front of the port entrance, silting it up to such an extent that only the smallest vessels can access the port. The study elucidates the pattern of hydrodynamic and morphodynamic regime in the area influenced by the port, allowing the prediction of future changes in the hydromorphology of Asparuhovo Beach.
RELIABILITY OF PUMPING STATIONS
Authors: Igneva-Danova Tanya
Published: December 2024

In recent years the subject of reliability prediction of complex systems has become more significant because of increasing the criticality of the infrastructure. The present research refers to surveying the operation of pumping stations and problems encountered during the exploitation, as well as developing a reliability assessment methodology. The main causes of damages in pumping stations are analyzed according maintenance data from water supply and sewerage operators. Reliability assessment is based on the determination of the failure rates, as well as the application of fault tree analysis and probability theory. The criticality of the failure rates of specific components can be assessed in the design process in order to optimize reliability. The main benefit of reliability prediction is the ability to make decisions at early stage of planning and design. The proposed methodology may find application in optimization and improving the performance of water supply and sewerage pumping stations.
ECOLOGICAL AGRICULTURE AS A SOCIAL COMPONENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND FOOD SAFETY
Authors: Oleksenko Roman , Voronkova Valentyna , Nikitenko Vitalina , Metelenko Natalya , Holovii Liudmyla
Published: December 2024

The research is aimed at identifying the conditions for the formation of the ecological agriculture concept aimed at creating a sustainable, environmentally friendly and efficient agricultural production system. The main idea is to use natural processes and resources to ensure a harvest while maintaining the environmental balance. Ecological farming can be an important step towards sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability, but it requires a balance between positive and challenging aspects, as well as additional research and innovation to achieve optimal results. The study used methods of system analysis and synthesis, Agile methodology, axiological, synergistic, ecological and humanistic methods and approaches, which allowed us to reveal new directions for improving ecological agriculture (agriculture) as a social factor of environmental sustainability and food security. With this approach, it is possible to combat environmental problems more effectively and develop sustainable approaches to the use of the planet's resources. The main task of implementing digital ecology is to create conditions for the transition to an open, healthy and safe digital ecology, which represents the intended transition to eco-civilisation. The conditions for the formation of an effective mechanism for the ecological development of a secure digital ecosystem are revealed. Digital ecology is one of the key areas aimed at preserving the environment and ensuring the long-term viability of our planet as an eco-civilisation.
MULTITEMPORAL SPECTRAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTRAFIELD SOIL FERTILITY HETEROGENITY ZONES OF NORTHERN KAZAKHSTAN ARABLE LANDS
Authors: Rashkovich Vasily , Rukhovich Dmitry , Borschev Dmitri
Published: December 2024

New methods for assessing soil cover heterogeneity, based on the analysis of extensive satellite data using neural network filtering technologies, were implemented to evaluate the territory of northern Kazakhstan. A comparative analysis of the quality of soil cover structure (SCS) determination, using remote sensing data, was conducted using two different methods. The first method is indirect and involves determining the SCS by analyzing and aggregating multitemporal vegetation indices (MVI). The second method is unique and involves determining the spectral neighborhood of the soil line in RED-NIR space.
The soils in the study area are characterized by southern chernozems with varying thickness and humus content. The heterogeneity of the soil cover is largely influenced by the microrelief of the terrain. Soils on watershed and upland surfaces are typically eroded and less moist, resulting in reduced thickness and lower humus content compared to soils located on slopes and in depressions.
Field research established a relationship between SCS, MVI, and open soil surface (OSS). The reliability and accuracy of the developed OSS method, when applied to the soils of northern Kazakhstan, were confirmed.
The structure of the soil cover is crucial for agriculture, especially in conditions of moisture deficiency in the dry steppe zone. The determination of soil heterogeneity using the OSS method represents a powerful new tool for creating a cartographic basis for precision agriculture. Utilizing OSS maps as the basis for task maps, differentiated fertilizer application in the studied area demonstrated high effectiveness, resulting in a threefold increase in lentil yield.
TEMPORAL VARIATIONS IN GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM AGRICULTURAL SOILS
Authors: Valujeva Kristine , Pilecka-Ulcugaceva Jovita , Siltumens Kristaps , Skiste Olga , Grinfelde Inga
Published: December 2024

Soil moisture, soil temperature, nutrient availability, and land use practices affect the GHG emissions from soils. In this study, the aim is to determine and analyse GHG emissions from agricultural soils in five monitoring sites. The mobile spectrophotometer Picarro G2508 is used for the quantification of N2O, CH4, and CO2 soil flux across five monitoring sites used for agricultural production during the growing seasons from 2017 to 2023. Findings reveal significant variations in GHG emissions across the monitoring sites. Specifically, the average N2O emissions at monitoring sites used form agricultural production varied from 3.73 to 46.54 g N2O ha-1 day-1, while the average CO2 emissions ranged from 65.75 to 166.08 kg CO2 ha-1 day-1, and CH4 assimilation ranged from 1.50 to 5.30 g CH4 ha-1 day-1. Meteorological conditions exert a considerable effect on soil microbiological activity within a growing season, further impacting GHG emissions. These findings highlight the complex interplay between soil dynamics, environmental factors, and GHG emissions in agricultural systems. This study contributes valuable insights into the understanding of GHG emissions from agricultural soils, providing essential information for policymakers, land managers, and stakeholders involved in developing sustainable agricultural practices and mitigating climate change.
STATISTICAL AND CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SOIL POLLUTION FROM KOSHTOVA LANDFILL MITROVICE - KOSOVO
Authors: Sinani Bahri , Boev Blazo , Reka Arianit , Boev Ivan , Sinani Berat , Lecaj Elida
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this research is to conduct a research on soil pollution in the village of Koshtove (Mitrovica/Kosovo), from the sanitary landfill, in this landfill all waste from the cities of Mitrovica, Vushtria and Skenderaj are collected. The growth of population and industry also increases the amount of waste, this study aims to study the level of soil pollution from the sanitary landfill of Koshtova, the village in the western part of the city of Mitrovica. This area has been clean, by the river Iber, the construction of the landfill has started to pollute the water flowing from the landfill where the soil is also polluted by this water. Through this research we have taken 6 soil samples which we have processed, analyzed, from this research we will see a distribution of some polluting elements in this area. Samples were taken at a depth of 25 to 40 cm, in quantities of approximately 200 g, which were placed in Zip bags, writing number of samples, date of sampling, X, Y and Z coordinates in KosovaREF coordinate system, and filling the notebook with the description of the area where it was taken samples. From the results presented, we see that Pb has a large distribution in this area with an average of 32.68 ppm, as well as Fe has a fairly large distribution with an average of 49775 ppm, which represents a high degree of distribution despite that in the sediments of the river Iber there is a rather small distribution compared to this. Likewise, the distribution of Cu is quite large and this study shows us that we are dealing with a very serious and dangerous pollution. So, from this study we can distinguish the degree of pollution, the source of pollution of the river sediment and the soil under the dump where we have a high occurrence of pollution.
FLAME ANALYSIS: UNDERSTANDING THE COMBUSTION OF RENEWABLE FUELS
Authors: Castells Blanca , Leon David , Amez Isabel , Paredes Roberto , Bolonio David
Published: December 2024

Due to the increase of global concerns over environmental degradation, the search for sustainable energy sources has led to increased utilization of renewable fuels such as biogas and biodiesel. Despite their advantages in terms of sustainability, challenges persist in their efficient utilization. An easy method to approach these challenges is addressing the characteristics of flames produced during these fuels� combustion. This study aims to address these challenges by developing a MATLAB-based flame analysis tool capable of determining flame shape and colour areas. By assessing a diverse dataset of digital images and videos capturing flames from various fuel sources, this tool enables comprehensive comparisons between flames produced by renewable fuels and traditional fuels. Moreover, thermography pictures were also assessed in order to properly define the areas in terms of temperature. A key contribution of this research is the introduction of a novel parameter noted as "shape factor," which quantifies flame morphology and dispersion. Through rigorous analysis, this parameter serves as a valuable metric for assessing flame stability and transition points. Through the study of the diferent features of renewable fuel flames, this study offers valuable insights crucial for optimizing combustion processes and advancing sustainable energy solutions. The proposed methodology not only aids in evaluating the performance of renewable fuels but also facilitates informed decision-making in energy transition initiatives. Ultimately, this research represents a significant step towards mitigating environmental impact and fostering a more sustainable energy landscape.
OPTIMIZATION OF PROCESS CONDITIONS FOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERSION OF MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE INTO SUGAR ALCOHOLS
Authors: Manaenkov Oleg , Kislitsa Olga , Stepacheva Antonina , Nikoshvili Linda , Matveeva Valentina
Published: December 2024

The scale of annual reproduction of cellulose-containing biomass in nature allows us to draw an unambiguous conclusion that cellulose is the only source of raw materials for the chemical and fuel industries, representing a real alternative to fossil resources and, first of all, oil. Cellulose is the main component of plant biomass. According to some estimates, almost half of the organic carbon in the biosphere is contained in cellulose. Hydrolytic hydrogenation is a special case of carbohydrate hydrogenation. With regard to cellulose, the essence of the process is to combine the processes of its hydrolysis and hydrogenation of the resulting glucose. Cellulose is a difficult-to-process substrate, which determines the �harsh� reaction conditions for its hydrolytic hydrogenation. In this regard, it is important to optimize the reaction conditions in order to increase the yield of the target products - sorbitol and mannitol. In this study, the reaction conditions for the conversion of microcrystalline cellulose in the presence of Ru-containing polymeric catalysts (temperature, pressure H2, time, substrate/catalyst ratio, reactor volume) were optimized. As a result, the maximum selectivity for sorbitol was 43.5 %, mannitol - 3.7 % with a cellulose conversion of 64 %. Also, based on the results of the study, a mathematical model was proposed to formally describe the kinetics of hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis of glucose.
EXPERIENCES WITH THE USE OF CUPOLA FURNACE SLAG IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Fedorko Patrik , Pribulova Alena , Petrik Jozef , Blasko Peter , Futas Peter
Published: December 2024

Gray cast iron is still the most used material for the production of castings. It can be made in several ways, but the most efficient and economical way to make gray cast iron is in a cupola furnace. A by-product in its production is slag, which arises from impurities that may be present in the charge, from coke, which is used as fuel for the cupola furnace and part of it also passes into the slag, from the lining of the cupola furnace as well as from oxides formed during of the smelting process, sulfides and phosphides. The amount of slag from the cupola furnace represents 5-10% of the weight of the produced metal. Gray cast iron can be melted in a hot-air or cold-air cupola furnace, and the slag can be cooled on the air to form lump slag, or it can be water-cooled to form granular slag. In the article, the authors dealt with the treatment of slag and its use in the preparation of concrete. In the first series of experiments, slag was used as a substitute for sand in concrete, being added in different amounts and the properties of the concrete were tested after 28 days, 3 months, 6 months and after a year. In the second series of experiments, it was ground to the grain size of cement and was added as a substitute for cement in concrete. The quality of the raw concrete was monitored by the cone test and the quality of the hardened concrete by measuring the compressive strength and hardness. However, the achieved results did not meet our expectations and were the worst compared to other metallurgical slags.