Journal Description
Processes
Processes
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on processes/systems in chemistry, biology, material, energy, environment, food, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, automation control, catalysis, separation, particle and allied engineering fields published monthly online by MDPI. The Systems and Control Division of the Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering (CSChE S&C Division) and the Brazilian Association of Chemical Engineering (ABEQ) are affiliated with Processes and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges. Please visit Society Collaborations for more details.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, Inspec, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Chemical) / CiteScore - Q2 (Chemical Engineering (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.5 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Screening and Optimization of Soil Remediation Strategies Assisted by Machine Learning
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061157 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
A numerical approach assisted by machine learning was developed for screening and optimizing soil remediation strategies. The approach includes a reactive transport model for simulating the remediation cost and effect of applicable remediation technologies and their combinations for a target site. The simulated
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A numerical approach assisted by machine learning was developed for screening and optimizing soil remediation strategies. The approach includes a reactive transport model for simulating the remediation cost and effect of applicable remediation technologies and their combinations for a target site. The simulated results were used to establish a relationship between the cost and effect using a machine learning method. The relationship was then used by an optimization method to provide optimal remediation strategies under various constraints and requirements for the target site. The approach was evaluated for a site contaminated with both arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at a former shipbuilding factory in Guangzhou City, China. An optimal strategy was obtained and successfully implemented at the site, which included the partial excavation of the contaminated soils and natural attenuation of the residual contaminated soils. The advantage of the approach is that it can fully consider the natural attenuation capacity in designing remediation strategies to reduce remediation costs and can provide cost-effective remediation strategies under variable constraints for policymakers. The approach is general and can be applied for screening and optimizing remediation strategies at other remediation sites.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remediation of Contaminated Sites: Volume II)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
New Insight into the Degradation of Sunscreen Agents in Water Treatment Using UV-Driven Advanced Oxidation Processes
by
Tajana Simetić, Jasmina Nikić, Marija Kuč, Dragana Tamindžija, Aleksandra Tubić, Jasmina Agbaba and Jelena Molnar Jazić
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061156 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study evaluates, for the first time, the effects of UV/PMS and UV/H2O2/PMS processes on the degradation of sunscreen agents in synthetic and natural water matrices and compares their effectiveness with the more conventional UV/H2O2.
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This study evaluates, for the first time, the effects of UV/PMS and UV/H2O2/PMS processes on the degradation of sunscreen agents in synthetic and natural water matrices and compares their effectiveness with the more conventional UV/H2O2. Investigations were conducted using a mixture of organic UV filters containing 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC) and 2-ethylhexyl-4-methoxycinnamate. Among the investigated UV-driven AOPs, UV/PMS/H2O2 was the most effective in synthetic water, while in natural water, the highest degradation rate was observed during the degradation of EHMC by UV/PMS. The degradation of UV filters in the UV/PMS system was promoted by sulfate radical (68% of the degradation), with hydroxyl radical contributing approximately 32%, while both radical species contributed approximately equally to the degradation in the UV/H2O2/PMS system. The Vibrio fischeri assay showed an increase in inhibition (up to 70%) at specific stages of UV/H2O2 treatment when applied to natural water, which further decreased to 30%, along with an increase in UV fluence and progressive degradation. The Pseudomonas putida test recorded minor toxicity (<15%) after treatments. Magnetic biochar utilized in conjunction with UV-driven AOPs exhibited superior performance in eliminating residual contaminants, providing an efficient and sustainable approach to mitigate sunscreen agents in water treatment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Oxidation Processes toward Challenges in Contaminants of Emerging Concern Treatment)
Open AccessReview
Exploration and Frontier of Coal Spontaneous Combustion Fire Prevention Materials
by
Dandan Han, Guchen Niu, Hongqing Zhu, Tianyao Chang, Bing Liu, Yongbo Ren, Yu Wang and Baolin Song
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061155 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mine fires have always been one of the disasters that restrict coal mining in China and endanger the life safety of underground workers. The research and development of new fire prevention materials are undoubtedly important to ensure the safe and efficient production of
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Mine fires have always been one of the disasters that restrict coal mining in China and endanger the life safety of underground workers. The research and development of new fire prevention materials are undoubtedly important to ensure the safe and efficient production of modern mines. At present, the main inhibiting materials used are grout material, inert gas, retarding agent, foam, gel, and so on. In order to explore the current situation of coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) fire prevention, the existing fire prevention materials were reviewed and prospected from three aspects: physical, chemical, and physicochemical inhibition. The results show that, at present, most of the methods of physicochemical inhibition are used to inhibit CSC. Antioxidants have become popular chemical inhibitors in recent years. In terms of physical inhibition, emerging biomass-based green materials, including foams, gels, and gel foams, are used to inhibit CSC. In addition, CSC fire-fighting materials also have shortcomings, including incomplete research on the mechanism of material action, poor stability of inhibitory properties, low efficiency, and economic and environmental protection to be improved. The future research direction of fire-fighting materials will be based on theoretical experiments and numerical simulation to study the mechanism and characteristics of CSC and develop new directional suppression materials with physicochemical synergies. These findings have extremely important implications for improving materials designed to prevent CSC.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Safety Monitoring and Prevention Process in Coal Mines)
Open AccessEditorial
Special Issue on “Advances in Bioprocess Technology”
by
Francesca Raganati and Alessandra Procentese
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061154 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This Special Issue, “Advances in Bioprocess Technology”, focuses on the latest advancements in sustainable bioprocess technologies [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bioprocess Technology)
Open AccessArticle
Comparison of the Limit of Detection of Paracetamol, Propyphenazone, and Caffeine Analyzed Using Thin-Layer Chromatography and High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography
by
Katarzyna Bober-Majnusz and Alina Pyka-Pająk
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061153 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and HPTLC (high-performance thin-layer chromatography) in normal (NP) and reversed (RP) phase systems were combined with densitometry to analyze caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol. This work aims to check whether comparable limit of detection (LOD) values can be obtained on TLC
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TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and HPTLC (high-performance thin-layer chromatography) in normal (NP) and reversed (RP) phase systems were combined with densitometry to analyze caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol. This work aims to check whether comparable limit of detection (LOD) values can be obtained on TLC and HPTLC plates. Analyses were performed on five (NP) or four (RP) different stationary phases (chromatographic plates), testing, in both cases, three mobile phases. It is shown that by using both TLC and HPTLC plates, it is possible to develop chromatographic conditions that enable the detection of compounds analyzed in amounts ranging from a dozen to several dozen µg/spot. In the RP system, lower LOD values for all tested compounds were obtained using TLC than HPTLC. However, performing analyses in the NP, similar (of the same order) LOD values were obtained for caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol when using both TLC and HPTLC plates. For example, during the NP-HPTLC analysis using silica gel 60F254 plates (#1.05548) and mobile phase B (n-hexane—acetone—ammonia, 25:25:0.5, v/v/v), LOD values for caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol were 0.010, 0.046, and 0.030 μg/spot, respectively. During NP-TLC analysis using silica gel 60F254 (#1.05554 plates) and the mobile phase C (chloroform—toluene—ethyl acetate—methanol—80% acetic acid, 18:18:7.5:6:0.3, v/v), the values of LOD were 0.054, 0.029, and 0.016 μg/spot, respectively. During RP-TLC analysis using TLC RP-18F254 plates (#1.05559) and mobile phase F (methanol-water, 40:10, v/v), the LOD values were 0.019, 0.024, and 0.053 μg/spot, respectively. Therefore, for economical reasons, TLC plates should be recommended for analyses of caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol, which are several times cheaper than HPTLC plates.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Chromatographic Separation Techniques in Food and Chemistry—Second Edition)
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Open AccessEditorial
Editorial on the Special Issue “Natural Compounds Applications in Drug Discovery and Development”
by
Alina Bora and Luminita Crisan
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061152 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Nature is an amazing source of natural bioactive compounds derived from numerous species of plants, marine bacteria, and fungi [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Compounds Applications in Drug Discovery and Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Numerical Simulation Study of a Pusher Feed Classifier Based on RNG-DPM Method
by
Youhang Zhou, Xin Zou, Zhuxi Ma, Chong Wu and Yuze Li
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1151; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061151 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The classifier is an essential tool for the development of contemporary engineering technology. The application of classifiers is to categorize mixed-sized particles into multi-stage uniform particle sizes. In current studies, the particles in the classifier obtain their initial velocity when feeding. The classification
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The classifier is an essential tool for the development of contemporary engineering technology. The application of classifiers is to categorize mixed-sized particles into multi-stage uniform particle sizes. In current studies, the particles in the classifier obtain their initial velocity when feeding. The classification effect is impacted by the inability to precisely control the initial state of the particles. To solve this problem, a pusher feed classifier was designed in this study, and a numerical simulation was performed to investigate its flow field characteristics and classification performance using the RNG-DPM method. A pusher is utilized to achieve particle feeding without initial velocity and to precisely control the initial state of the particles in the classification flow field. A newly developed two-way air inlet structure is designed to provide a superimposed flow field and enable the five-stage classification. Our results show that this pusher feed classifier has the best classification effect when the vertical airflow velocity is 10 m/s and the horizontal airflow velocity is 3 m/s. Meanwhile, the classification size ratio (CSR) from outlet 1 to outlet 5 was 1.24, 0.55, 0.45, 0.39, and 0.15, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Separation Processes)
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Open AccessReview
Erosive Wear Caused by Large Solid Particles Carried by a Flowing Liquid: A Comprehensive Review
by
Can Kang, Minghui Li, Shuang Teng, Haixia Liu, Zurui Chen and Changjiang Li
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061150 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The erosive wear encountered in some industrial processes results in economic loss and even disastrous consequences. Hitherto, the mechanism of the erosive wear is not clear, especially when the erosive wear is caused by large particles (>3.0 mm) carried by a flowing liquid.
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The erosive wear encountered in some industrial processes results in economic loss and even disastrous consequences. Hitherto, the mechanism of the erosive wear is not clear, especially when the erosive wear is caused by large particles (>3.0 mm) carried by a flowing liquid. Current approaches of predicting erosive wear need improvement, and the optimization of relevant equipment and systems lacks a sound guidance. It is of significance to further explore such a subject based on the relevant literature. The present review commences with a theoretical analysis of the dynamics of large particles and the fundamental mechanism of erosion. Then the characteristics of the erosion of various equipment are explicated. Effects of influential factors such as particle size and properties of the target material are analyzed. Subsequently, commonly used erosion models, measurement techniques, and numerical methods are described and discussed. Based on established knowledge and the studies reported, some expectations for future work are proposed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Particle Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Observation of Gap Phenomena and Development Processing Technology for ECDM of Sapphire
by
Chun-Hao Yang, Shao-Hua Yu and Hai-Ping Tsui
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061149 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to develop observation techniques and processing technology for the electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) of sapphire wafers. To measure the effect of gas-film thickness, discharge-spark conditions, and droplet sliding frequency on machining quality and efficiency in ECDM,
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The main purpose of this study was to develop observation techniques and processing technology for the electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) of sapphire wafers. To measure the effect of gas-film thickness, discharge-spark conditions, and droplet sliding frequency on machining quality and efficiency in ECDM, this research utilized high-speed cameras to observe the gas film thickness and formation of the gas film during ECDM. Additionally, this study observed the machining-gap phenomena during ECDM. The formation mechanism and machining characteristics of the gas film were understood through experiments. The machining parameters included the liquid level, working voltage, rotation speed, and duty factor. This study analyzed and discussed the effect of each machining parameter on the gas-film thickness, current, electrode consumption, and droplet sliding frequency. Moreover, this study aimed to obtain optimized machining parameters to overcome the difficulty of machining sapphire. The experimental results indicated that utilizing a high-speed camera to capture the phenomena between electrodes during electrochemical discharge could effectively observe the gas-film thickness and the coverage of the gas film. A higher bubble coalescence rate enhanced the machining capability and reduced the lateral discharge. Therefore, this study could obtain better machining-hole depths through observation and analysis to improve gas-film stability and machining capability. This study demonstrated that a liquid level of 700 µm, a working voltage of 48 V, a duty factor of 50%, and a tool electrode rotational speed of 200 rpm could achieve a hole depth of 86.7 µm and a hole diameter of 129.5 µm.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Design and Manufacturing Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of A Moringa Oil–Beeswax Edible Coating on the Shelf-Life and Quality of Fresh Cucumber
by
Shekha Al-Rashdi, Nusaiba Al-Subhi, Mai Al-Dairi and Pankaj B. Pathare
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1148; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061148 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cucumbers are a popular vegetable consumed worldwide and are known for their nutritional value, containing carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamin C, etc. The abundance of a high moisture content is correlated to cucumber perishability, which encourages investigation into ways to maintain its quality and increase
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Cucumbers are a popular vegetable consumed worldwide and are known for their nutritional value, containing carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamin C, etc. The abundance of a high moisture content is correlated to cucumber perishability, which encourages investigation into ways to maintain its quality and increase shelf-life. This study was carried out to determine the effect of a moringa oil–beeswax coating on the quality of fresh cucumber at different storage temperatures for 27 days of storage. Freshly harvested cucumbers were divided into two groups: the first group was coated with the moringa oil–beeswax edible coating, while the other one was not coated (control). Each group was divided into three other subgroups, for storage at 4, 10, and 22 °C. Different quality parameters, including weight loss, color change, firmness, total soluble solid (TSS), vitamin C, and pH, were evaluated. The findings showed that the weight loss of cucumber was highly increased in non-coated samples stored at high temperature. After 27 days of storage, the highest and lowest weight reduction % were recorded for non-coated cucumbers stored at 22 °C (38.09%) and moringa oil–beeswax-coated cucumbers stored at 10 °C (12.35%), respectively. Color analysis revealed that coating had a significant impact on color values, with distinct patterns in lightness, redness-greenness, and yellowness values for both treatments at various temperatures and days. The lightness values showed minimal fluctuations and stabilized at 13.65 at both 4 °C and 10 °C. Temperature and coating had a significant impact on pH levels, with the coating potentially exhibiting a protective effect on pH stability, particularly at lower temperatures (4 °C). Additionally, both groups’ total acidity levels held steady over time and at various temperatures, with the coating having a highly significant effect on total acidity levels. The amount of vitamin C varied significantly with temperature and storage period, but the coating did not affect vitamin C content. At 22 °C, there were notable variations in the vitamin C content over the storage period, with a final value of 37.7 mg/L on coated samples. Temperature and the duration of storage (p < 0.05) had a significant impact on the levels of total soluble solids (TSS), whereas firmness values changed significantly over the storage period only. Moringa oil–beeswax edible coating has the potential to preserve the nutritional value and quality attributes of cucumber.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Pressure Interpolation in Water Distribution Networks by Using Gaussian Processes: Application to Leak Diagnosis
by
Pedro-Antonio Liy-González, Ildeberto Santos-Ruiz, Jorge-Alejandro Delgado-Aguiñaga, Adrián Navarro-Díaz, Francisco-Ronay López-Estrada and Samuel Gómez-Peñate
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1147; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061147 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
This work presents the reconstruction of the pressure head map of a water distribution system (WDS). This approach relies on historical data collected from a reduced number of sensors placed at some nodes of the WDS. Thus, a Gaussian regression process is then
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This work presents the reconstruction of the pressure head map of a water distribution system (WDS). This approach relies on historical data collected from a reduced number of sensors placed at some nodes of the WDS. Thus, a Gaussian regression process is then applied to estimate the pressure head at those nodes without a sensor, which allows the reconstruction of the pressure map for the whole network. Then, for leak diagnosis purposes, a dataset of pressure head maps of the WDN is created considering leaky scenarios, and a correlation method is applied to estimate the leak location. Then, for clarity, the Hanoi network is used to evaluate the performance of this leak diagnosis strategy in a simulation environment, assuming the availability of only three sensors. The results showed the potential for pressure head map reconstruction and leak localization.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Process Control and Monitoring)
Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Achievements and Challenges of Matrix Solid-Phase Dispersion Usage in the Extraction of Plants and Food Samples
by
Agnieszka Zgoła-Grześkowiak, Tomasz Grześkowiak, Magdalena Ligor and Robert Frankowski
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061146 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
A review of the application of matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) in the extraction of biologically active compounds and impurities from plants and food samples with a particular emphasis on conventional and new types of sorbents has been provided. An overview of MSPD applications
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A review of the application of matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) in the extraction of biologically active compounds and impurities from plants and food samples with a particular emphasis on conventional and new types of sorbents has been provided. An overview of MSPD applications for the isolation of organic residues from biological samples, determined using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, has been presented. In this study, procedural solutions that may extend MSDP applicability for the extraction such as vortex-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, microwave-assisted, and extraction with a magnetic sorbent have been discussed. Special attention has been paid to MSPD sorbents including modified silica, diatomite, magnesium silicate, alumina, carbon materials (carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, graphene, or graphite), molecularly imprinted polymers, and cyclodextrin. An important aspect of the MSPD procedure is the use of high-purity and environmentally friendly solvents for extraction (e.g., deep eutectic solvents), with such criteria being the most important for modern analytical chemistry. Many advantages of MSPD are presented, such as high recoveries, the requirement for a smaller volume of solvent, and shorter procedure times than classical methods.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Separation and Extraction Techniques in Food Processing and Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Investigating the Physical and Operational Characteristics of Manufacturing Processes for MFI-Type Zeolite Membranes for Ethanol/Water Separation via Principal Component Analysis
by
Hamdi Chaouk, Emil Obeid, Jalal Halwani, Wiem Abdelbaki, Hanna Dib, Omar Mouhtady, Eddie Gazo Hanna, Célio Fernandes and Khaled Younes
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061145 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to discern the underlying trends for 31 distinct MFI (Mobil No. 5)-zeolite membranes of 11 textural, chemical, and operational factors related to manufacturing processes. Initially, a comprehensive PCA approach was employed for the entire
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In this study, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to discern the underlying trends for 31 distinct MFI (Mobil No. 5)-zeolite membranes of 11 textural, chemical, and operational factors related to manufacturing processes. Initially, a comprehensive PCA approach was employed for the entire dataset, revealing a moderate influence of the first two principal components (PCs), which collectively accounted for around 38% of the variance. Membrane samples exhibited close proximity, which prevented the formation of any clusters. To address this limitation, a subset acquisition strategy was followed, based on the findings of the PCA for the entire dataset. This resulted in an enhanced overall contribution and the revelation of diverse patterns among the membranes and the considered manufacturing factors (total variance between 55% and 77%). The segmentation of the data unveiled a robust correlation between silica (SiO2) concentration and pervaporation conditions. Additionally, a notable clustering of the chemical compositions of the preparation solutions underscored their significant influence on the operational efficacy of MFI zeolite membranes. On the other hand, an exclusive chemical composition of the preparation solution was noticed. This highlighted the high influence of the chemical composition on the operational efficiency of MFI zeolite membranes. The coupling of PCA with experimental results can provide a data-driven enhancement strategy for the manufacturing of MFI-type zeolite membranes used for ethanol/water separation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic AI and IoT for Promoting Green Operation and Sustainable Environment)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Properties of Sol-Gel Ce-TiO2 Films
by
Lidija Ćurković, Debora Briševac, Davor Ljubas, Vilko Mandić and Ivana Gabelica
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061144 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, nanostructured cerium-doped TiO2 (Ce-TiO2) films with the addition of different amounts of cerium (0.00, 0.08, 0.40, 0.80, 2.40, and 4.10 wt.%) were deposited on a borosilicate glass substrate by the flow coating sol-gel process. After flow coating,
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In this study, nanostructured cerium-doped TiO2 (Ce-TiO2) films with the addition of different amounts of cerium (0.00, 0.08, 0.40, 0.80, 2.40, and 4.10 wt.%) were deposited on a borosilicate glass substrate by the flow coating sol-gel process. After flow coating, the deposited films were dried at a temperature of 100 °C for 1 h, followed by calcination at a temperature of 450 °C for 2 h. For the characterization of sol-gel TiO2 films, the following analytic techniques were used: X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermal gravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Sol-gel-derived Ce-TiO2 films were used for photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIP). The influence of the amount of Ce in TiO2 films, the duration of the photocatalytic decomposition, and the irradiation type (UV-A and simulated solar light) on the CIP degradation were monitored. Kinetics parameters (reaction kinetics constants and the half-life) of the CIP degradation, as well as photocatalytic degradation efficiency, were determined. The best photocatalytic activity was achieved by the TiO2 film doped with 0.08 wt.% Ce, under both UV-A and solar irradiation. The immobilized catalyst was successfully reused for three cycles under solar light simulator radiation, with changes in photocatalytic efficiency below 3%.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis in Advanced Oxidation Processes for Environmental Remediation)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Broad-Spectrum Technical and Economic Assessment of a Solar PV Park: A Case Study in Portugal
by
António Farracho and Rui Castro
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061143 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
While technical optimization focuses on maximizing the annual energy yield of utility-scale PV parks, the ultimate goal for power plant owners is to maximize investment profit. This paper aims to bridge the gap between technical and economic approaches by using simulation data from
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While technical optimization focuses on maximizing the annual energy yield of utility-scale PV parks, the ultimate goal for power plant owners is to maximize investment profit. This paper aims to bridge the gap between technical and economic approaches by using simulation data from a real-case utility-scale PV park. It analyzes how changes in configuration parameters such as the DC–AC ratio and string length and PV technologies like solar tracking systems and bifacial modules impact the economic metrics of the project, i.e., net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR). PVSyst software was utilized as a simulation tool, while in-house developed software implementing appropriate technical and economic models served as a comparison platform and was used to validate the outputs generated through PVSyst. Results indicate that the commonly used horizontal single-axis tracking configuration may economically underperform compared with fixed-tilt setups. The optimal DC–AC ratio fell within the range of 1.30 to 1.35. Extending the string length from 25 to 28 modules improved economic indexes. Additionally, fixed-tilt bifacial modules can enhance project economics if a 10% cost premium compared with standard monofacial PV modules is considered.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimal Design for Renewable Power Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Research and Practice on Implementing Segmented Production Technology of Horizontal Well during Extra-High Water Cut Stage with Bottom Water Reservoir
by
Dong Zhang, Yanlai Li, Zongchao Zhang, Fenghui Li and Hongjie Liu
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061142 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Bohai X oilfield has reached the extra-high water cut stage of more than 95%, dominated by the bottom water reservoir. The oilfield mainly adopts horizontal-well exploitation, with the characteristics of high difficulty and low success rate for well water plugging. To solve the
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Bohai X oilfield has reached the extra-high water cut stage of more than 95%, dominated by the bottom water reservoir. The oilfield mainly adopts horizontal-well exploitation, with the characteristics of high difficulty and low success rate for well water plugging. To solve the above problem, the segmented production technology of horizontal wells was developed to guide oilfield applications and tap their potential. In the segmented design stage, the horizontal section is objectively segmented by drilling condition analysis, optimally based on drilling through interlayers or permeability discrepancy formation, simultaneously combined with the numerical simulation method. When implementing measures, annulus chemical packer materials are squeezed between segments to effectively inhibit the fluid flow between the open hole and the sand-packing screen pipe. Moreover, the packers are used to seal between segments to effectively restrain the flow between the screen and the central tube, achieving the establishment of compartments. In the production process, the valve switch on the central tube can be independently controlled by a remotely adjustable method to achieve optimal production. This segmented production technology was successfully tested for the first time in Bohai oilfield. Up to now, a total of six compartment measures have been implemented, remarkably decreasing water cut and increasing oil production for horizontal wells in the bottom water reservoir. This method does not require water testing, and the optimal production section can be chosen through segmented independent production, greatly improving the success rate of water-plugging measures for horizontal wells. This technology opens up a new mode for the efficient development of horizontal wells in bottom water reservoirs and is planned to be widely promoted and applied in similar oilfields.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multiphase Flow, and Efficient Development Methodology and Technology in Unconventional Reservoirs (2nd Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
The Influence of Complex Piston Movement on the Output Flow Rate of a Hingeless Bent-Axis Axial Piston Pump
by
Junqiang Shi, Jiaxing Shi, Jingcheng Gao, Dongjing Chen, Xiaotao Li, Ying Li and Jin Zhang
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061141 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Wobble-plate axial piston pumps, characterized by the lack of a slipper mechanism, experience reduced leakage in comparison to their swash-plate counterparts, which contributes to their higher volumetric efficiency. Presently, the primary focus of the research conducted by scholars both domestically and internationally is
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Wobble-plate axial piston pumps, characterized by the lack of a slipper mechanism, experience reduced leakage in comparison to their swash-plate counterparts, which contributes to their higher volumetric efficiency. Presently, the primary focus of the research conducted by scholars both domestically and internationally is concentrated on wobble-plate axial piston pumps. The performance studies within this field are predominantly focused on investigating flow pulsation. They also investigate pressure pulsation. Additionally, they investigate cavitation phenomena. Research on inclined-axis axial piston pumps has been limited. This study focused on analyzing the operational form of the piston within an inclined-axis axial piston pump. A correction factor k was introduced based on the motion characteristics of the piston. The application of this factor significantly improved the accuracy of the simulations when compared to the experimental results. Specifically, at a load pressure of 10 MPa, the discrepancy between the simulation and the experimental data was reduced from 8.95% to 0.23%. Similarly, at a load pressure of 20 MPa, the error rate was minimized. It was reduced from 9.15% to 0.35%. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed correction factor. The correction factor enhances the predictive accuracy of the pump’s performance. This enhancement is observed under varying load conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Process Control and Monitoring)
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Open AccessReview
Towards Reliable Prediction of Performance for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells via Machine Learning-Integrated Hybrid Numerical Simulations
by
Rashed Kaiser, Chi-Yeong Ahn, Yun-Ho Kim and Jong-Chun Park
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061140 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
For mitigating global warming, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells have become promising, clean, and sustainable alternatives to existing energy sources. To increase the energy density and efficiency of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), a comprehensive numerical modeling approach that can adequately predict
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For mitigating global warming, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells have become promising, clean, and sustainable alternatives to existing energy sources. To increase the energy density and efficiency of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), a comprehensive numerical modeling approach that can adequately predict the multiphysics and performance relative to the actual test such as an acceptable depiction of the electrochemistry, mass/species transfer, thermal management, and water generation/transportation is required. However, existing models suffer from reliability issues due to their dependency on several assumptions made for the sake of modeling simplification, as well as poor choices and approximations in material characterization and electrochemical parameters. In this regard, data-driven machine learning models could provide the missing and more appropriate parameters in conventional computational fluid dynamics models. The purpose of the present overview is to explore the state of the art in computational fluid dynamics of individual components of the modeling of PEMFC, their issues and limitations, and how they can be significantly improved by hybrid modeling techniques integrating with machine learning approaches. Furthermore, a detailed future direction of the proposed solution related to PEMFC and its impact on the transportation sector is discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling, Simulation and Control in Energy Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Comparison of Tetraselmis suecica Cell Disruption Techniques: Kinetic Study and Extraction of Hydrosoluble Compounds
by
Hussein Rida, Jérôme Peydecastaing, Hosni Takache, Ali Ismail and Pierre-Yves Pontalier
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061139 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The optimization of cell disruption is a critical step in microalgal biorefineries. We used the same batch of Tetraselmis suecica culture to compare two mechanical cell disruption techniques, focusing on the extraction yield of water-soluble molecules. The conditions for high-pressure homogenization (HPH) studied were
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The optimization of cell disruption is a critical step in microalgal biorefineries. We used the same batch of Tetraselmis suecica culture to compare two mechanical cell disruption techniques, focusing on the extraction yield of water-soluble molecules. The conditions for high-pressure homogenization (HPH) studied were two passes at a moderate pressure of 300 bars. For ultrasound (US) treatment, we used an amplitude of 20% (equivalent to 100 W) for 25 min. These conditions were chosen on the basis of a preliminary screen of extraction conditions. HPH extracted proteins and pigments more efficiently than US, whereas US was superior for uronic acid extraction. Interestingly, the two methods had similar extraction yields for carbohydrates under the studied conditions. We also analyzed the kinetics of molecule release by considering the centrifugation time lag for HPH and applying a first-order kinetic model for US. HPH outperformed US in terms of the immediate extraction and release of molecules.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Processing Technologies for Substance Extraction, Separation, and Enrichment)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on the Deactivation Mechanism of Ru/C Catalysts
by
Zhi Cao, Tianchi Li, Baole Li, Xiwen Chen, Chen Zuo and Weifang Zheng
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061138 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Employing catalytic decomposition to break down reducing agents in intermediate-level radioactive waste during nuclear fuel reprocessing offers significant advantages. This study focuses on investigating the deactivation behavior of 5% Ru/C catalysts by two different synthesis processes used for reducing agent destruction. Deactivation experiments
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Employing catalytic decomposition to break down reducing agents in intermediate-level radioactive waste during nuclear fuel reprocessing offers significant advantages. This study focuses on investigating the deactivation behavior of 5% Ru/C catalysts by two different synthesis processes used for reducing agent destruction. Deactivation experiments were conducted by subjecting the 5% Ru/C catalysts to 100 and 150 reaction cycles. Changes in the concentration of free radicals on the carbon-based carrier were measured to analyze the loading position and loss of Ru ions. Additionally, sorption–desorption curves and pore size distributions of the four catalysts were obtained. Analysis results reveal that Ru ions on the catalyst adsorb onto active free radical sites on the carbon-based carrier. Under ultrasonic conditions, some Ru ions partially desorb from the free radical sites on the carbon-based carrier, and desorbed Ru ions may adsorb onto weak free radical sites, while undesorbed Ru ions may adsorb onto strong free radical sites. After hundreds of hours of reaction, SM1 and SM2 exhibited approximately a 30% decrease in specific surface area and pore volume compared to SM0. However, the catalyst activity remained unchanged, and the catalyst pore size remained essentially unchanged, which primarily means that the micropores on the catalyst’s surface have undergone corrosion and damage.
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(This article belongs to the Section Catalysis Enhanced Processes)
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