bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Ammonia-Diesel Blends in Engine Operations: Performance and Stability Impacts
Authors: Almanzalawy M , Nada S , Abo-Elfadl S , Hassan H
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the effects of incorporating ammonia into diesel engine operations, focusing on its impact on performance and stability. Ammonia was introduced into the engine via the intake air. By varying ammonia ratios at different engine speeds and under full load conditions, it was found that ammonia integration could be achieved without stability issues up to an energy fraction of 54%. However, exceeding this threshold resulted in misfire occurrences during engine operation. Notably, lower energy ammonia fractions below 40% led to increased power output, while higher fractions caused power reduction. Additionally, consistent reductions in brake-specific energy consumption were observed with ammonia supplementation. Variations in in-cylinder pressure were directly correlated with power output changes. Peak pressure initially increased with ammonia but decreased beyond 40% energy sharing, with its location consistently retarded. Moreover, ammonia induction led to longer ignition delays and altered combustion phasing across all engine speeds, indicating its significant influence on engine operating parameters.
CdO Nanoparticles by chemical method as antimicrobial therapy in order to maintain of healthy cells
Authors: Mezher Thaer A. , Ahmed Hameed H. , Khaleel Mohammed M.
Published: October 2024

A simple chemical method that has the potential for large-scale manufacturing was used to produce Cadmium Oxide (CdO) Nanoparticles (NPs). Using X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, The optical and Structural properties of synthesized CdO were investigated, strong antibacterial activity of CdO nanoparticles is demonstrated against a variety of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungal diseases. Therefore, CdO NPs might be a potential substitute to develop as an antibacterial agent against bacterial strains that are resistant to many drugs. Applications of CdO NPs might provide important discoveries in a variety of domains, including antibacterial systems and medical devices.
Fresh water production via atmospheric water harvesting using solar energy for green hydrogen production
Authors: Nada Rania S , Emam Mohamed , Hassan Hamdy
Published: October 2024

Solar energy is used to drive an atmospheric water harvesting unit to produce fresh water needed for the electrolysis process to produce hydrogen, as well as to drive the electrolyzer. So, the system can be considered as a solar powered hybrid system for fresh water harvesting and green hydrogen production implementing the electrolysis concept. Implementation of the system specially in arid regions with high levels of water scarcity and high relative humidity levels helps in achieving SDGs 3, 7, 9, and 13 progressively, improving health and wellbeing, reducing water scarcity, using clean renewable energy, and limiting climate change. The system is proposed and investigated for the production of both fresh and clean water and green hydrogen gas. To improve the productivity of the overall system, performance enhancement of the atmospheric water harvesting subsystem is experimentally investigated to assure the reliability and continuous operation of the overall green hydrogen hybrid system. It was investigated in summer and winter using different number of porous sheet metals with the silica gel bed. The results show that the productivity of the atmospheric water harvesting system can be increased by a minimum of 6% with one mesh metal sheet and 30% with two meshes, and increases by a maxinmum of 60% with one mech and 260% with two meches.
An Analytical Approach for Sustainable Greenhouse Heating in Lebanon: A Focus on Air Source Heat Pumps
Authors: Khaled Loubna , Dib Rabih , Abdulhay Bakri , Moubayed Nazih
Published: October 2024

In Lebanon, where economic challenges and Mediterranean climate dominate, protected cultivation methods, such as greenhouses, are widely used for sustainable agriculture. Tomatoes, with an annual production of around 250,000 tons in Lebanon, are the focus of this study. Tomato leaves require a temperature range of (18-25ºC) for optimal growth. The present study explores the potential of air-source heat pumps as a sustainable heating method. It includes a comprehensive literature review and discusses alternative heating methods. A dynamic energy model was developed after using statistical models to plot the temperature and solar radiation profiles for the worst-case scenario for heating. This energy model sizes the heat pump to maintain 18 ºC in a standard 332 m2 Quonset greenhouse with thermal polyethylene covering. The model’s validity was demonstrated by comparing its temperature profiles with a study conducted in West Bengal, India. The results indicate the adequate size for the studied case is 16 kW. Sensitivity analysis showed the required power for different temperature settings (12-18ºC) and the effect of wind speed by analyzing the heat transfer coefficient of the cover, which doubled the power when the heat transfer coefficient increased from 4 to 10 W/m2.K.
Water reservoir techniques using remote sensing and GIS: a literature survey
Authors: Ali M H , Mohammed F G , Al-Saady Y I
Published: October 2024

The issue of storing flood waters caused by rains and river floods is very important to address the problems of drought. This study reviewed the latest research to address the problems of water scarcity and conservation with advanced methods. these study methodologies range from employing Geographic Information Systems Programs to handle and analyses remote sensing data to incorporating contemporary techniques to enhance morphometric analysis, where researchers employed various analytical techniques. To determine if these watersheds are appropriate for storing water, some studies have preferred Multi-Criteria Decision-Making models (MCDM), more especially the fuzzy analytical hierarchy (FAHP) Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process. Others have employed techniques for hydrological analysis, such as the ArcGIS program’s Arc hydrology tools. Researchers reached a consensus regarding the fundamental parameters required for morphometric analysis in the demarcation of watersheds, notwithstanding methodological variances. Additionally, many researchers have argued the importance of using the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission Digital Elevation Model (SRTM-DEM) mission and the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER DEM) in morphometric and hydrologic studies.
Effect of Magnesium Hydroxide on the Thermal Stability, Latent Heat and Flammability Properties of composite material based on Phase Change Materials
Authors: Othmen Marwa , Tlili Nawel , Alkan Cemil , Hannachi Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Polyurethane-Phase Change Materials (PU-PCM) composites are used for thermal regulation aiming to conserve and efficiently manage thermal energy. These materials combine the properties of PU, such as low thermal conductivity, low density and excellent mechanical properties as a thermal insulator, with the benefits of PCM allowing thermal energy storage, which greatly reduce energy consumption in heating and cooling. Adding a flame retardant to the PU-PCM composition improves fire resistance. The objective of this study is the preparation and characterization of a composite material based on PU rigid foam containing 30% by mass of commercial paraffin waxes as PCM, together with magnesium hydroxide as flame retardant. A series of samples were prepared by incorporating different percentages of Mg(OH)2, ranging from 1 % to 5 %, with and without the PCM. Various thermal and chemical characterization tests were carried out. The results indicate that the structure of the PU cells is not affected by the increase of the Mg(OH)2 incorporation rate. In terms of thermal properties, the addition of 1% flame retardant increases the latent heat from 25.9 J/g to 39.68 J/g. As the amount of Mg(OH)2 incorporated increases, the flame retardancy increases.
Modelling of Control Strategy for Sun Tracking of Concentrated Photovoltaic (CPV) Systems and Performance Analysis of Optical Losses Due to Tracking Errors.
Authors: Imane Ourraoui , Ali Ahaitouf
Published: October 2024

Among the wide range of solar energy technologies, CPV remains a promising technology worldwide. The photovoltaic concentrator maximizes its efficiency through the use of optical concentration systems. But since optical concentration depends on direct solar radiation, maximizing the quantity of useful solar radiation received requires using a solar tracker that tracks the direction of the sun. To maximize collector efficiency, it’s crucial to choose tracking systems that align with the optical concentration factor. Inadequate focusing of direct solar radiation on the concentrator’s receiver can result in high optical losses, regardless of quality. This paper focuses on improving the accuracy and lowering the cost of the tracker trajectory generation strategy. A sun tracker simulator is first developed, allowing for the investigation of the impact of sun tracking performance a traditional control strategy is initially implemented that uses an astronomical calculation to follow the path of the sun. This strategy uses a sun position algorithm from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to generate the tracker trajectory and track the sun’s path. When tested on the simulator, as a result, this strategy demonstrated a level of accuracy that ensured a good balance between intricacy and accuracy. Then, An investigation study was conducted to determine how this solar tracker’s precision might affect its optical efficiency. the optical losses resulting from the tracking were calculated using the provided location, The optical loss calculated for this collector’s maximum tracking error is approximately 9%. The research methodology showed that the tracker precision satisfied the requirements of the optical system under study.
A Twin Spiral Coil Phase Transfer Heat Exchanger for Storing Heat Should Be Designed and Tested in The Lab.
Authors: Sayyid Jaafar Hussein , Allawi Assem S. , Al-Shohani Wisam A. M.
Published: October 2024

This in-depth study of thermal energy storage (TES) systems examines their function in resolving time, temperature, power, and location problems within the immense energy system design. With its incredible growth, TES creates a shadow over the future, projecting optimism for a better economy and more reliable energy infrastructure. The study is concentrated on a state-of-the-art heat exchanger that has circular double coils with various diameters, with a reliance on charging process amplification. The trial stage is decorated like a well-coordinated ensemble, integrating shell-and-tube design together with intense evaluation of varied tube morphologies, HTF flow designs, and protecting processes. The TES device effortlessly reveals its many components, such as a gas heater, control valves, a pump, a circular container with spiral HTF tubes, and a chorus of music. The PCM heat storage unit’s performance improved in two resonant cases that evaluated the effect of the HTF input temperature and coil charge in great detail. Case 2 and Case 1’s connections exhibit the significant heat absorption and PCM liquification by creating a web of various temperature differences while charging. With its improved temperature performance and straightforward design, Case 2 displays rapid removal and quicker charging periods. In addition, the study examines the HTF input parameters, which cast light on the constant HTF departure temperatures and demonstrate the importance of temperature during the charging opera. While the total energy storage rate rises with increasing temperatures, the expected scores are in accord with the mood fluctuations at the beginning and end of HTF. This review functions as a folder of vital insights, analyzing notes towards constructing PCM charging processes for higher energy storage efficiency - ultimately placing a limelight on the endless possibilities that TES systems predict in the present spectrum of energy uses.
Modulation of Residual Current on Impacts of Shoreline Changes in the Yangshan Deepwater Harbor
Authors: Mao Wei , Guo Wenyun
Published: October 2024

Coastal land reclamation projects significantly alter tidal wave propagation and residual flow structures. This study focuses on the Yangshan Deepwater Harbor (YDH) in China, aiming to scrutinize the effects of construction activities on residual flow patterns employing the Finite Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM). By calculating Lagrangian residual currents across different tidal periods, we analyzed alterations in flow patterns and velocity distribution pre- and post-construction. The research findings reveal that, although the residual flow direction in the harbor and the southern sea area remains largely unchanged from the pre-construction phase, the northern sea area has experienced a shift in residual flow direction. It is noteworthy that after the implementation of the project, the residual flow at the East Entrance was greatly weakened. This study underscores that coastal constructions can lead to remarkable influence on residual currents and emphasizes the necessity for thorough hydrodynamic assessments in the planning and implementation stages of coastal constructions.
Effect of Axial Clearance Between Turbine and Guide Wheel on Hydraulic Performance of Mine Borehole Turbo Generator
Authors: Zhang Xiaoze
Published: October 2024

In order to study the influence law of axial clearance between turbine and guide wheel on the performance of mine turbine generator. The three-dimensional unsteady internal flow and external characteristics of 8 kinds of turbine generator models with different coaxial clearance are calculated. The results show that: As the axial clearance coefficient between the turbine and the guide wheel increases, the pressure loss at the inlet and outlet of the guide wheel and turbine increases gradually, the torque and shaft power of the turbine are reduced, the hydraulic efficiency of turbine generator decreases gradually; The hydraulic efficiency of the turbine increases first and then decreases. Considering the external and internal flow characteristics comprehensively, the axial clearance coefficient between the turbine and the guide wheel is between 0.12 and 0.15, and the turbine generator performance is the best. It can provide some reference for the design optimization of Mine Borehole Turbo Generator.
Design and Analysis of High Precision Flow Proportional Regulating Valve Based on Piezoelectric Drive
Authors: Hu Xiaonan , Tian Yun , Xie Wen , Guo Menglei , Huang Xin , Li Jingmin , Chen Yuping
Published: October 2024

With the development of micro-satellite propulsion system towards high precision, light and miniaturization, higher requirements are put forward for precise adjustment of propulsion system. Based on the principle of piezoelectric micro-displacement drive, this paper designs a light and small proportional flow control valve, adopts compliant amplification mechanism, develops the throttling design of small flow in the form of valve needle, analyzes the flow characteristics in the proportional adjustment process under different parameters, and realizes the micro-flow control ability with a flow control range of 0∼2mg/s and a flow control accuracy better than 3%. This design and analysis method can meet the needs of large-scale and high-precision flow control, and provide technical support for subsequent engineering applications.
Study on the Characteristics of Tidal Current Velocity in Estuarine and Bay Areas
Authors: Wang Ruifeng , Cheng Wenlong , Yang Yuanping , Zhang Zhiyong , Zeng Jian
Published: October 2024

In estuarine and bay regions, reciprocating tidal currents frequently constitute the predominant hydrodynamic forces. Nonetheless, there exists a paucity of research concerning the hydrodynamic characteristics under intricate tidal conditions. This study employs tidal current data collected from nine sites within the Yellow River Estuary and Hangzhou Bay to examine the periodic characteristics of tidal currents, the vertical velocity distribution, and the attributes of ebb and flood peak velocities. The study revealed that the Yellow River Estuary and Hangzhou Bay predominantly exhibit nearly symmetrical reciprocating tidal currents. Nevertheless, certain regions within Hangzhou Bay also demonstrate asymmetrical tidal currents. The vertical velocity distribution throughout various phases of a single tidal cycle generally adheres to the characteristics described by the SOULSBY distribution. The peak velocities of ebb and flood tides are correlated with the rate of change in water depth (hm/tm), and an equation for calculating these peak velocities has been derived through fitting data.
Research on the Internal Flow Properties of the Bending Pipeline Based on the CFD
Authors: Zhang Xiaoze
Published: October 2024

Pipeline connection is the main connection of hydraulic parts. For the study of pipe diameter, turning Angle and the turning radius of pipe, the influence law of the internal flow characteristics. this paper adopts CFD 3D simulation technology to explore the influence law of 5 kinds of bending radius, 6 kinds of bending Angle and 4 kinds of pipe diameter on the pressure loss of the pipeline. The results show that there are pressure difference and velocity difference in the inner wall and the outer wall of the bend, due to the impact of the fluid inertia force on the bend, when the fluid flows in the bend. As bending radius and pipe diameter increases, the pressure difference and speed difference of the inner and outer walls at the turning point of the pipeline are reduced, the local pressure loss at the bending is reduced, the internal pressure loss of the pipeline is reduced, and the flow is more uniform. With the increase of bending angle, the pressure difference and velocity difference of the inner and outer walls of the pipeline bending increase, the local pressure loss increases, and the overall pipeline pressure loss increases. The research results of this paper can provide some reference for pipeline hydraulic design and optimization.
Simulation Analysis of Loss of Coolant Accidents Based on CNIFA Program
Authors: Tian Haijing , Huang Xiaoyun , Tian Haiman
Published: October 2024

The loss of coolant accident in the primary pipeline of a reactor is a typical accident in the safety analysis of nuclear power plants, and it is one of the accidents with a high probability of occurrence. Due to the extremely complex structure of the lower space of the containment vessel, it increases the complexity of fluid flow during a loss of coolant accident. This article is based on the internal water flooding analysis simulation software CNIFA of a nuclear power plant to simulate the water flooding of a rupture in the main pipeline heat pipe section of a power plant, and to conduct a comprehensive water flooding scenario simulation for this working condition. The quantitative information collected during the simulation process, including dynamically displayed water volume, water level, and their changes over time, facilitate emergency response personnel to choose the correct response plan in advance, it can also provide more accurate basis for various specialties in design analysis.
Deformation and Stress Prediction of Tank under Uneven Settlement
Authors: Wu Gang , Xie Shuyi , Zhou Huiping , Luo Jinheng , Long Yan , Zhang Shuxin
Published: October 2024

The differential settlement of crude oil tank foundations can lead to deformation and stress concentration, posing significant risks to the safe operation of storage tanks. This study developed a finite element model for a large crude oil storage tank subjected to harmonic settlement to address the issue of non-uniform settlement around the tank. The model systematically varied the tank’s diameter-to-thickness ratio, height-to-diameter ratio, and the wind beam’s relative bending stiffness. The research examined the impact of these three factors on the maximum dimensionless radial displacement at the tank top and the maximum equivalent stress at the tank bottom. A predictive method was proposed for estimating the radial displacement at the tank top and the equivalent stress at the tank bottom under uneven settlement, offering valuable insights for assessing the integrity of large tanks in such conditions.
Hydroboration of Acid Anhydrides Catalyzed by Aluminumhydride Supported by β-diketimines Ligand
Authors: Zeng Siyuan , Wu Jin , Yang Zhi
Published: October 2024

The hydroboration reaction was historically catalyzed by transition metals. Nevertheless, the known aluminum hydride catalyst supported by β-diketimines ligand for catalyzing the hydroboration reaction of acid anhydride compounds reduces pollution and the cost associated with those heavy metals while broadening the synthesis pathway of organoboranes. Most importantly, this innovative substance has not been previously reported. In this regard, this research investigates the excellent performance of the aluminum hydride catalyst in the hydroboration of acid anhydrides, observing short reaction times and high yields. Furthermore, we found long-term stability as well as recyclability in LAlH2, proven to be an environmentally friendly green catalyst.
Supercritical Methane Adsorption Characteristics and Pore Structure Characteristics of Deep Middle Rank Coal
Authors: Li Qi , Wu Yong , Qiao Lei
Published: October 2024

In order to accurately analyze the adsorption characteristics, pore structure, and fractal law of deep middle rank coal, high-pressure isothermal adsorption tests based on magnetic levitation high-pressure thermobalance and pore structure tests based on mercury intrusion method were carried out on coal samples collected from typical kilometer level deep wells. The fractal law of sponge model was studied. The results showed that: a. The weight method adsorption test showed “excess adsorption” phenomenon with the increase of equilibrium pressure, and the modified Gibbs surface excess adsorption theory was in line with the Langmuir adsorption model; b. The distribution of macropore volume in deep middle rank coal accounts for a dominant proportion of 57.44% to 62.47%, and the proportion of microporous specific surface area reaches 72.96% to 74.27%, indicating that microporous adsorption capacity is the strongest; c. The pore structure parameters and adsorption constants exhibit strong nonlinear characteristics.
Finite Element Analysis of LED Heat Dissipation Performance Based on Graphene Composites
Authors: Zhao Xia , Dou Meng , Zhang Zheng , Shi Qufei , Xiu ZhiJuan
Published: October 2024

With the gradual development of integrated circuits to thin, high-performance and versatile of electronic products is becoming more and more powerful, and its integration and assembly density continue to improve, which will lead to the increase of its working power consumption and heat. If not timely treatment of heat dissipation problems, which will lead to heat concentration in the diode PN junction, it will reduce the service life of LED lights, and in severe cases, it will even burn the LED device. Therefore, it is crucial to improve heat dissipation efficiency of LED and reduce the junction temperature of chip. An LED structure with aluminum material and an LED structure with graphene material are analyzed by finite element method to study the heat dissipation efficiency of the graphene material. The results reveal that the heat dissipation effect of high conductivity graphene composites provides a convenient evaluation method for the subsequent use of the new materials. The research in this paper shows that the software simulation method can effectively analyze the thermal conductivity of practical engineering applications.
Evaluation and Research on Correlation for Spray Cooling
Authors: She Yangzi
Published: October 2024

Spray cooling is influenced by many related parameters, making analysis of heat transfer mechanisms and prediction of cooling performance challenging. After summarizing and analyzing fifteen different forms of correlation in spray cooling literature, it appears that there are four expressions for spray cooling correlation. 2989 experimental data under different experimental conditions in twelve studies were collected to form an experimental database to evaluate the prediction of correlations. The prediction accuracy of Nusselt number correlations based on droplet diameter is considered the best, while that of correlations based on dimensionless heat flux is considered the worst. The factor analysis method was used to analyze the prediction differences of correlations and investigate the correlation between parameters and the heat transfer process. We found that the correlation with the best evaluation accuracy must contain more parameters with high correlation. A new correlation was derived based on this conclusion to predict the data better.
Development of a georeferenced atlas of energy renovation in residential buildings using GIS tool
Authors: Belmaaziz Mohamed , Cadoni Gianluca
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a method for modelling the energy needs for heating the residential building stock on a macro scale. The method is based on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools to manage various existing geolocalised databases and the collection of field data. It combines the calculation of energy demand with the estimation of solar gains received by the building envelope. In order to estimate the heat energy balance, a description of the building geometry is necessary. The geometrical characteristics of the envelope are extracted from the building entities information available in the spatial database. These parameters are then enriched and cross-referenced with other data gathered from the government’s complex taxation files. The TABULA buildings typology was chosen because it is an exhaustive European classification adapted for use in GIS utilities. The objective of this work is to produce a georeferenced atlas that can identify potential energy savings on large zones, such as urban areas. An understanding of energy consumption at this scale is crucial for the effective management of massively scaled energy-saving solutions. The atlas will promote energy efficiency in the residential sector and guide environmental policy measures by identifying priority areas for renovation.
House FIRSTLIFE in student contest and in Living Lab
Authors: Tywoniak Jan , Malík Zdenko , Sojková Kateřina
Published: October 2024

The paper comments on selected measurements and observations related to the FIRSTLIFE house demonstration unit, which was prepared by the team of the Czech Technical University for the international competition Solar Decathlon Europe 21/22 with its final at the Solar Campus in Wuppertal, Germany. The paper comments on the measurement results obtained during the competition in the field of building physics (thermal and moisture comfort, measurement of air permeability, measurement of sound insulation of the perimeter wall and dynamic co-heating test). The second part of the paper describes selected follow-up activities. For the purposes of the Living Lab, eight of the competition houses remained on the Solar Campus for at least another 3 years. This allowed long-term monitoring and targeted experiments to be carried out and some of the earlier measurements to be repeated under different climatic boundary conditions. For this phase, additional sensors were added in the Czech house, such as a meteorological station and temperature and heat flow sensors in the perimeter wall. Part of the data comes directly from the building management system. The paper comments on first results from Living Lab period.
Reviewing of the net-zero energy buildings and housings in Japan
Authors: Huyen Nguyen Thai , Take Kenzo , Take Kyoko
Published: October 2024

The buildings and construction sectors play a pivotal role in combating climate change. Globally, they account for 30% of the final energy consumption and 27% of total energy sector CO2 emissions. Buildings currently consume up to 40% of the world’s total energy, and it is projected to increase to 50% by 2030. The world faces a significant challenge in addressing these issues related to global energy production. From the Paris Agreement in 2015 to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26),Japan has committed to developing and implementing robust greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction measures using its resources. They have declared their intention to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, improving the energy efficiency of structures. This involves measures such as regulating electricity usage, imposing restrictions on design specifications concerning the built environment and raw materials and promoting the use of sustainable energy sources to minimize the environmental impact of buildings. These efforts have given rise to the concept of net-zero energy buildings (ZEB) and net-zero energy housing (ZEH). This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of ZEB/ZEH in a general context and to assess its feasibility and practicality within the specific context of Japan.
Seeds of energy intelligence: Attitudes and energy behaviour of Chinese digital native Generation Z college students in sustainable development
Authors: Peng Yehui
Published: October 2024

By 2020, the total population of China’s Generation Z (Gen Z) is approximately 260 million, comprising 18.6% of the overall population. As digital natives, the internet has shaped their open, diverse values, behavioural patterns, and social interactions. This paper concentrates on a significant segment of Gen Z, specifically college students, during a crucial phase of their social responsibility development. Given the global imperative for sustainable development, understanding Gen Z’s engagement with energy sustainability is essential. A questionnaire conducted at colleges in China explored access to energy information and behaviours and investigated their participation in sustainable practices. This article aims to find the gaps between translating energy knowledge captured by digital tools into action. The findings are intended to support and inform the development of more targeted energy education and energy-saving tools, promoting the development of the next generation of sustainable energy and building a more environmentally friendly and sustainable society.
Toward sustainable energy switch in built environment: learning from ongoing experiences
Authors: Basti Antonio , Di Giuseppe Elena
Published: October 2024

The contribution addresses the topic of the ecological transition of energy production and supply systems of built environment, mean as an evolution towards sustainable forms of reorganization of human communities. To this end, focuses its attention on the most recent application experiences, to compare what has been outlined at the political and financial level, with the output generated by the concrete interventions, by the energy, environmental and social point of view. A broad and varied picture emerges, in which the actions ranges from the energy solarization of individual or complex of buildings, to the solar use of large portions of territory. The analysis and classification of each initiative it made possible to understand which are the most widespread solutions and which requires greater support to be accepted at the local community level. It also consented to understand the need to integrate each initiative within a design process oriented towards preserving the quality of urban and rural landscape. This innovative approach, based on a bottom-up operational models founded on a public-private partnerships, a multidisciplinary of actors and an active participation of citizens, constitutes the next objective assumed by research work, oriented to define an operative design based procedure, able to support public and private actors in the choices formulation.
Decarbonization Roadmaps and Community Transition Pathways: empowering Energy Citizenship in the EU
Authors: Boeri Andrea , Olga Murielle Boulanger Saveria , Longo Danila , Turillazzi Beatrice
Published: October 2024

The European energy transition is currently emphasizing advancements in regulations and technologies, with a focus also on social justice. Citizens are perceived as key players in the energy systems, as their direct involvement can contribute to the wide spread of improved behaviours and clean energy production. This paper explores Community Transition Pathways (CTPs), an innovative instrument to support energy citizenship effectively. CTPs guide citizens through structured paths, addressing diverse communities. Grounded in energy citizenship theories, the concept integrates insights from literature and policy developments. CTPs have been created within the H2020 project GRETA and verified in six case studies across Italy, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Portugal. This paper aims to present the instrument as a project result, embedding its creation in the current debate about energy citizenship and transition pathways and presenting the results on three GRETA case studies. The research’s originality lies in its empirical approach, emphasizing citizens’ active roles in transition processes. Successful development and testing of CTPs demonstrate their value in fostering collaboration in clean energy production and facilitating participatory transition paths. However, ongoing refinement and replicability are essential for sustained success. By positioning citizens as active participants and reshaping public decision-making, CTPs advance a more inclusive and impactful approach to energy transition.
Flood management in the built environment: the micro-scale contribution to a distributed strategy
Authors: Vanelli Francesca , Lavagna Monica , Minifie Paul
Published: October 2024

The built environment offers an opportunity to implement Flood Risk Management measures by spatially distributing them as a complementary alternative to large-scale protection schemes. Specifically, micro-scale solutions focus on buildings, open spaces, users, and small infrastructure, addressing various flood management strategies with different performance indicators. These measures encompass, for instance, private precautionary measures like floodproofing or elevation, and nature-based solutions. However, their adoption faces technology, economics, and social challenges. To effectively reduce flood risk and increase the built environment’s resilience to floods, a systemic approach is necessary, evaluating and jointly implementing diverse measures across the built environment. Drawing from a systematic literature review and expert interviews, this study explores micro-scale Flood Risk Management measures within the built environment, examining their barriers and drivers. Additionally, it introduces an atlas of multi-strategy measures, qualitatively comparing their performance. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a holistic perspective on flood adaptation and highlights opportunities to enhance building-level adaptation actions through collaboration with various stakeholders.
How water circularity can help to reduce and regulate water waste in urban districts
Authors: Tucci Fabrizio , Baiani Serena , Mancini Francesco , Romano Giada , Maria Giannini Lidia
Published: October 2024

Global water consumption has increased sixfold in the past 100 years and is growing at about 1% per year due to population growth, economic development, and changing consumption patterns; therefore, climate change, combined with urbanization and population growth, is causing water availability problems in cities around the world. Rethinking circular cities that put water at the centre of their priorities and that manage it cyclically and keep it within the urban environment as much as possible to maximize its value must become the fundamental goal. However, to date, cities are not even close to maximizing the use of water that reaches their buildings. As a result, two main issues have emerged as crucial in the international debate: the scarcity of water resources due to its wastefulness and overuse, and extreme weather events, such as heavy rains alternating with periods of prolonged drought, a consequence of global warming. In response to these issues, this research aims to investigate the potential of a design approach that takes into account the two phenomena of water excess and shortage, integrating water from the earliest decision-making stages of building design. Starting from the definition of architectural strategies, replicable solutions are defined and evaluated against specific KPIs to develop a resilient and climate-neutral architectural and urban design model.
Unravelling complexity toward circularity: a system-dynamics based approach
Authors: Emre Kaya Fuat , Monsù Scolaro Antonello
Published: October 2024

This paper employed the System Dynamics (SD) methodological tool to investigate the intricate dynamics of transitioning to the circular economy, as a climate change mitigation strategy, in the building sector while focusing on stakeholder dynamics throughout the building life cycle. This paper’s methodological approach used a two-stage approach, encompassing problem articulation and formulation of dynamic hypothesis. In the problem articulation stage, this paper identified the stakeholder dynamics in the building life cycle thanks to a comprehensive critical literature review. This paper then delved deeper into the stakeholder dynamics in the formulation of dynamic hypothesis stage. The results revealed that the stakeholders are interdependent while working together to address common concerns. Furthermore, the results emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration and communication in overcoming barriers to the circular economy transition in the building sector. Thus, this paper aims to contribute to the understanding of stakeholder dynamics while streamlining the decision-making process and suggesting potential solutions for the effective implementation of the circular economy in the prevailing linear state of the building sector to pave the way for a collaborative and communicative approach to climate change mitigation. While recognizing the limitations, this paper suggests future research for a more comprehensive analysis of the complex system’s dynamics.
Exploring the Sustainability Performance of Circular Business Models in the Built Environment
Authors: Mohamed Rahla Kamel , Bragança Luís , Mateus Ricardo
Published: October 2024

The Circular Economy (CE) emerged in the last decade as an imperative path to transition towards more sustainable practices and go beyond carbon neutrality. Applying CE principle in the built environment has been investigated and recent research advocated for positive impacts if the sector embraces the paradigm shift and moves away from linear towards more circularity. Similarly, the literature regarding Circular Business Models (CBMs) has witnessed substantial growth as the latter holds the promise of providing a blueprint on how to make a financial profit while applying CE principles. Nonetheless, a gap remains in understanding the actual impact of CBMs in the built environment from a sustainability perspective. This paper will explore current literature regarding the environmental, economic, and social impacts of CBMs in the built environment to address this gap and provide a clearer understanding of the dynamics of circularity and sustainability. This exploratory research will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of CBMs in fostering sustainability within the built environment.
Reducing the embodied carbon using bio-based building materials: the biogenic carbon content of timber
Authors: Giacomello Elena , Perrucci Giovanni , Trabucco Dario
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, several efforts have been made towards the reduction of operational energy and therefore carbon, thanks to the introduction of mandatory compliance in many national regulations, achieved by using specific certification tools. As operational carbon diminishes, the significance of embodied carbon - emissions released before the building and infrastructure begins to be used - will continue to increase as a portion of total emissions.

Strategy for reducing embodied carbon include the use of building components derived from plants, which absorb atmospheric carbon during their growth through photosynthesis. Wood stands out among building materials, not only for its ability to store biogenic carbon but also for its lower emissions as per life-cycle assessments (LCA).

The purpose of this paper is to conduct an LCA of a wooden building using a Whole-Building Life Cycle Assessment (WBLCA) software, and to explore three methodologies for assessing biogenic carbon in LCA. It follows the two primary calculation methods provided by the EN 15804 and ISO 21930 standards for LCA, along with an additional “dynamic approach”.

Key procedural discrepancies between the explored methodologies arise, guiding designers to adopt varying strategies in minimising a building’s carbon footprint. This research aspires to underscore the shortcomings and advantages of prevalent methods.
Bespoke metal cladding. Rethinking the design of the building envelope to ensure sustainability principles
Authors: Scanagatta Chiara , Condotta Massimiliano
Published: October 2024

Nowadays policies are increasingly oriented towards the use of renewable and bio-based materials to reduce the environmental impact of the building sector. Furthermore, the increasing use of dry construction techniques allows to combine a more sustainable use of resources with an attentive management of the end-of-life stage. Considering the need to shift the demand for material sourcing towards solutions that do not permanently affect the environment, the use of metals is not the first solution that comes to mind, but it offers many possibilities both in terms of sustainability and formal rendering. Metals can have great potential for use but, although the benefits of recyclability and disassembly of this material are well known, the metal cladding sector still finds little room for development. Bearing this in mind, this contribution presents a research work which analysed the possibilities and opportunities deriving from the use of metal cladding for sustainability.
Circular Economy in Heat Supply Systems for Buildings: An Overview of the End of Life of System Components and Existing Evaluation Systems and Products
Authors: Pichlmeier Franziska
Published: October 2024

In order to achieve climate protection targets, many heating systems must be converted to renewable energies and more efficient systems. Most of residential buildings in Germany are heated with natural gas (50 %), 25 % with an oil. Around 45 % of the heating systems are older than 15 years, 20,5 % are even older than 25 years. Therefore, a high replacement rate is to be expected in the next few years. In the context of circular economy, the accumulating materials should remain in the material cycle. Some materials, such as metals, can be recycled easily. However, building services engineering, in particular heat supply, has become increasingly complex. This paper focuses on the state of the circular economy of heat supply systems for buildings. Firstly, a detailed examination of products utilized in heat supply systems is undertaken. Secondly, an assessment of the end-of-life scenarios for these components was conducted, considering disposal routes and recycling rates. Lastly, an evaluation of assessment systems fostering a circular economy regarding heat supply systems is performed. The aim of the work is to provide an overview of the state of the art with regard to circular economy in heat supply and thereby draw conclusions as to where potentials and obstacles exist.
Assessment methods and digital tools to support circular building strategies
Authors: Giorgi Serena
Published: October 2024

The aim of the paper is to highlight how digital technology can be a vector for maintaining information of buildings products, promoting supply chain transparency and traceability of materials and environmental data, contributing to activate a sustainable circular economy. Indeed, the current lack of knowledge of product characteristics often hinders the activation of reverse logistic and the assessment of the environmental benefits of circular material flows. This means, on one hand, the need to trace and collect product characteristics and product environmental information throughout the entire life cycle, and, on the other hand, the to identify ways of communicating and sharing information. This paper outlines current digital tools to support transparency and traceability of materials. Next, the paper verticalises the method and indicators used to declare the circular and sustainable profile of products, emphasising the importance of applying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Finally, the prefiguration of a possible integration between traceability tools and the LCA methodology is discussed, identifying possible drivers (e.g. legislative, trainings) and possible key-operators for the widespread of the “LCA-integrated traceability tools”.
Water and Carbon Neutral Buildings: systemic approaches and hybrid strategies
Authors: Violano Antonella , Harputlugil Timuçin
Published: October 2024

In order to achieve a real green transition in the design, construction and use of the built environment, especially in contemporary urban contexts, it is necessary to assess the water saving benefits combined with binding energy efficiency and climate neutrality targets in a holistic manner. This approach cannot focus on stand-alone requirements. Special emphasis is placed on technological solutions that transform energy and water consumption from negative to positive at all stages of the life cycle, including construction and operation. The aim is not just to reduce expenditure, but to increase the effectiveness of the savings through an effective and cyclical approach over the long term.

This paper presents the results of a research project that develops a set of integrated indicators in accordance with the Itaca Protocol standard, UNI/PdR Practice 13.0:2019, with the introduction of elements from the Level(s). The environmental indicator system is designed to simultaneously assess the requirements of water-neutral and carbon-neutral construction, in line with EU recommendations C/2021/2279 and C/2021/9332. The hybrid water-energy strategies used in the application of this system are evaluated in terms of their potential to achieve the aforementioned goals. This approach, illustrated by best practice examples, aims to provide a holistic assessment of the environmental performance of integrated buildings in contemporary urban contexts, taking into account both water efficiency and carbon reduction. The objective is to guide the technological design and construction of sustainable buildings, promoting a synergetic approach to water and carbon footprint management, starting from the case study of a building in Palermo.