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
Review of Shale Oil and Gas Refracturing: Techniques and Field Applications
Processes 2024, 12(5), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050965 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Shale oil and gas wells usually experience a rapid decline in production due to their extremely low permeability and strong heterogeneity. As a crucial technique to harness potential and elevate extraction rates in aged wells (formations), refracturing is increasingly employed within oil and
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Shale oil and gas wells usually experience a rapid decline in production due to their extremely low permeability and strong heterogeneity. As a crucial technique to harness potential and elevate extraction rates in aged wells (formations), refracturing is increasingly employed within oil and gas reservoirs globally. At present, the selection processes for refracturing, both of wells and layers, are somewhat subjective and necessitate considerable field data. However, the status of fracturing technology is difficult to control precisely, and the difference in construction effects is large. In this paper, well selection, formation selection, and the fracturing technology of shale oil and gas refracturing are deeply analyzed, and the technological status and main technical direction of refracturing technology at home and abroad are analyzed and summarized. The applicability, application potential, and main technical challenges of existing technology for different wells are discussed, combined with the field production dynamics. The results show that well and layer selection is the key to the successful application of refracturing technology, and the geological engineering parameters closely related to the remaining reservoir reserves and formation energy should be considered as the screening parameters. General temporary plugging refracturing technology has a low cost and a simple process, but it is difficult to accurately control the location of temporary plugging, and the construction effect is very different. Mechanical isolation refracturing technology permits the exact refurbishment of regions untouched by the initial fracturing. However, it is costly and complex in terms of construction. Consequently, cutting the costs of mechanical isolation refracturing technology stands as a pivotal research direction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Hydraulic Fracturing Technology for Unconventional Reservoirs)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Efficient Removal of Water Soluble Fraction of Diesel Oil by Biochar Sorption Supported by Microbiological Degradation
by
Zorica R. Lopičić, Tatjana D. Šoštarić, Jelena V. Milojković, Anja V. Antanasković, Jelena S. Milić, Snežana D. Spasić and Jelena S. Avdalović
Processes 2024, 12(5), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050964 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The contamination of the water bodies by diesel oil (DO) and its water-soluble fraction (WSF) represents one of the most challenging tasks in the management of polluted water streams. This paper contains data related to the synthesis and characteristics of the plum stone
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The contamination of the water bodies by diesel oil (DO) and its water-soluble fraction (WSF) represents one of the most challenging tasks in the management of polluted water streams. This paper contains data related to the synthesis and characteristics of the plum stone biochar material (PmS-B), which was made from waste plum stones (PmS), along with its possible application in the sorption of the WSF of DO from contaminated water. Techniques applied in sample characterisation and comparisons were: Elemental Organic Analysis (EOA), Scanning Electron Microscopy−Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), pH (pHsus) and point of zero charge (pHpzc). In order to increase the overall efficiency of the removal process, sorption and bioremediation were subsequently combined. Firstly, PmS-B was used as a sorbent of WSF, and then the remaining solution was additionally treated with a specific consortium of microorganisms. After the first treatment phase, the initial concentration of diesel WSF was reduced by more than 90%, where most of the aromatic components of DO were removed by sorption. The sorption equilibrium results were best fitted by the Sips isotherm model, where the maximum sorption capacity was found to be 40.72 mg/g. The rest of the hydrocarbon components that remained in the solution were further subjected to the biodegradation process by a consortium of microorganisms. Microbial degradation lasted 19 days and reduced the total diesel WSF concentration to 0.46 mg/L. In order to confirm the non-toxicity of the water sample after this two-stage treatment, eco-toxicity tests based on a microbial biosensor (Aliivibrio fischeri) were applied, confirming the high efficiency of the proposed method.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermochemical Conversion of Agricultural and Food Processing Waste)
Open AccessFeature PaperReview
The Application of Sheep Wool in the Building Industry and in the Removal of Pollutants from the Environment
by
Mária Porubská, Karin Koóšová and Jana Braniša
Processes 2024, 12(5), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050963 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant
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The presented review is focused on a brief overview of the scientific works on the use of sheep wool outside the textile industry that were published in recent years. The focus of the information is the on construction industry, which is a significant consumer of heat- and sound-insulating materials. With its properties, sheep wool can compete very well with insulators made from non-renewable resources. Other building elements can also be combined with wool, as long as they are used in appropriate conditions. Due to its chemical and physical structure, wool is extremely suitable for the adsorption removal of pollutants from the living and working environment, in native or modified form. Wool can also be used in recycling processes. However, each application must be preceded by an investigation of the optimal conditions of the given process, which offers researchers inspiration and interesting topics for research.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Obstacle Gradient on the Deflagration Characteristics of Hydrogen/Air Premixed Flame in a Closed Chamber
by
Yufei Wang and Shengjun Zhong
Processes 2024, 12(5), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050962 (registering DOI) - 9 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation is employed to analyze and discuss the effect of obstacle gradient on the flame propagation characteristics of premixed hydrogen/air in a closed chamber. With a constant overall volume of obstacles, the obstacle blocking rate
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In this paper, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation is employed to analyze and discuss the effect of obstacle gradient on the flame propagation characteristics of premixed hydrogen/air in a closed chamber. With a constant overall volume of obstacles, the obstacle blocking rate gradient is set at +0.125, 0, and −0.125, respectively. The study focuses on the evolution of the flame structure, propagation speed, the dynamic process of overpressure, and the coupled flame–flow field. The results demonstrate that the flame front consistently maintains a jet flame as the obstacle gradient increases, with the wrinkles on the flame front becoming increasingly pronounced. When the blocking rate gradients are +0.125, 0, and −0.125, the corresponding maximum flame propagation speeds are measured at 412 m/s, 344 m/s, and 372 m/s, respectively, indicating that the obstacle gradient indeed increases the flame propagation speed. Moreover, the distribution of pressure is closely related to changes in the flame structure, with the overpressure decreasing in the obstacle channel as the obstacle gradient increases. Furthermore, the velocity vector and vortex distribution in the flow field are revealed and compared. It is found that the obstacle tail vortex is the main factor inducing flame evolution and flow field changes in a closed chamber. The effect of the blocking rate gradient on flow velocity is also quantified, with instances of deceleration occurring when the blocking rate gradient is −0.125.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Process Modelling and Simulation)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Utilizing Recycled Expanded Polystyrene Plastics to Stabilize Metal–Organic Frameworks for Heterogeneous Catalysis
by
Ruizhi Yin, Enxi Shen, Chenjia Liang, Dezhong Song, Samir El Hankari and Jia Huo
Processes 2024, 12(5), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050961 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Polystyrene plastics present significant environmental and human health threats due to their poor recyclability and degradability. However, leveraging their properties to enhance material performance stands out as one of the most effective strategies for mitigating these issues. Here, we have employed recycled expanded
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Polystyrene plastics present significant environmental and human health threats due to their poor recyclability and degradability. However, leveraging their properties to enhance material performance stands out as one of the most effective strategies for mitigating these issues. Here, we have employed recycled expanded polystyrene plastics to manufacture metal–organic framework/expanded polystyrene plastic composites (MOF@EPP) using an adverse solvent precipitation method. This method simultaneously recycles EPPs and safeguards moisture-sensitive MOFs. Due to the exceptional hydrophobic properties of EPPs, HKUST−1@EPP can maintain structural integrity even when immersed in water for 30 days. This method is applicable to other moisture-sensitive MOFs, such as MOF−74(Zn) and MIL−53(Al). The HKUST−1@EPP composite also exhibits desirable heterogeneous catalytic activity in the Knoevenagel condensation reaction between benzaldehyde and acrylonitrile. The conversion rate can reach 94.9% within 4 h at 90 °C and does not exhibit a significant decrease even after six cycles, even in the presence of water. This study not only introduces a novel concept for recycling polystyrene plastics, but also offers a practical strategy for safeguarding moisture-sensitive MOFs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Synthesis of Metal-Organic Framework Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on the Influencing Factors of Injection Blockage during CO2 Sequestration in One-Dimensional Long Reactor
by
Yi Zhang, Houzhen Wei, Jinxin Liu and Xiaolong Ma
Processes 2024, 12(5), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050960 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Carbon sequestration through CO2 injection into a formation is an effective strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, a one-dimensional long reactor was constructed to simulate the CO2 injection process under various sediment temperatures, pressures, and flow rates. The
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Carbon sequestration through CO2 injection into a formation is an effective strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, a one-dimensional long reactor was constructed to simulate the CO2 injection process under various sediment temperatures, pressures, and flow rates. The formation of CO2 hydrate and the resulting blockages were investigated in detail through a series of indoor experiments. Due to the increasing driving force for CO2 hydrate formation, reducing sediment temperature and increasing sediment pressure can cause hydrate blockage to form near the injection end, leading to an increase in CO2 injection pressure and a reduction in the storage range. Furthermore, CO2 injection rate has a substantial impact on the pattern of hydrate blockage. A lower injection rate facilitates full contact between CO2 gas and pore water, which helps to increase the formation and blockage degree of CO2 hydrates, thereby decreasing the amount of CO2 injection. The experimental investigation presented in this paper examines the laws of CO2 injection and clogging under various sediment conditions and injection processes on a one-dimensional scale, which can provide valuable insights for the design of CO2 sequestration processes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Environment and Energy Related Processes in Offshore Geotechnical Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Heat Transfer and Thermal Efficiency in Oxy-Fuel Retrofit of 0.5 MW Fire Tube Gas Boiler
by
Joon Ahn
Processes 2024, 12(5), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050959 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Industrial boilers cause significant energy wastage that could be mitigated with oxy-fuel combustion versus traditional air combustion. Despite several feasibility studies on oxy-fuel burners, they are widely avoided in industry due to major infrastructural challenges. This study measured the performance and heat transfer
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Industrial boilers cause significant energy wastage that could be mitigated with oxy-fuel combustion versus traditional air combustion. Despite several feasibility studies on oxy-fuel burners, they are widely avoided in industry due to major infrastructural challenges. This study measured the performance and heat transfer characteristics of each component in a 0.5 MW fire tube gas boiler after retrofitting it with an oxy-fuel burner. Comparisons were drawn across three combustion modes—air combustion, oxy-fuel combustion, and oxy-fuel flue gas recirculation (FGR). The Dittus–Boelter equation was employed to predict heat transfer in the fire tube for all combustion modes at full load (100%). Heat transfer in the latent heat section of the economizer was measured and compared with predictions using the Zukauskas equation. With this retrofit, oxy-fuel combustion improved the thermal efficiency by about 3–4%. In oxy-fuel combustion, the flow rate of exhaust gas decreased. When integrated into an existing fire tube boiler, the fire tube’s heat transfer contribution diminished greatly, suggesting the economic viability of a redesigned, reduced fire tube section. Additionally, a new design could address the notable increase in gas radiation from the fire tube in oxy-fuel and FGR, as well as aid in the efficient recovery of condensation heat from exhaust gases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal and Fluid Flow Processes in Sustainable and Conventional Energy)
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Open AccessArticle
Well Selection for CO2 Huff-n-Puff in Unconventional Oil Reservoirs Based on Improved Fuzzy Method
by
Yunfeng Liu, Yangwen Zhu, Haiying Liao, Hongmin Yu, Xin Fang and Yao Zhang
Processes 2024, 12(5), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050958 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The implementation of CO2 huff-n-puff in unconventional oil reservoirs represents a green development technology that integrates oil recovery and carbon storage, emphasizing both efficiency and environmental protection. A rational well selection method is crucial for the success of CO2 huff-n-puff development.
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The implementation of CO2 huff-n-puff in unconventional oil reservoirs represents a green development technology that integrates oil recovery and carbon storage, emphasizing both efficiency and environmental protection. A rational well selection method is crucial for the success of CO2 huff-n-puff development. This paper initially identifies eight parameters that influence the effectiveness of CO2 huff-n-puff development and conducts a systematic analysis of the impact of each factor on development effectiveness. A set of factors for well selection decisions is established with seven successful CO2 huff-n-puff cases. Subsequently, the influencing factors are classified into positive, inverse, and moderate indicators. By using an exponential formulation, a method for calculating membership degrees is calculated to accurately represent the nonlinearity of each parameter’s influence on development, resulting in a dimensionless fuzzy matrix. Furthermore, with the oil exchange ratio serving as a pivotal parameter reflecting development effectiveness, recalibration of weighting factors is performed in conjunction with the dimensionless fuzzy matrix. The hierarchical order of weighting factors, from primary to secondary, is as follows: porosity, reservoir temperature, water saturation, formation pressure, reservoir thickness, crude oil density, crude oil viscosity, and permeability. The comprehensive decision factor and oil exchange ratio exhibit a positive correlation, affirming the reliability of the weighting factors. Finally, utilizing parameters of the Ordos Basin as a case study, the comprehensive decision factor is calculated, with a value of 0.617, and the oil exchange ratio is predicted as 0.354 t/t, which falls between the Chattanooga and Eagle Ford reservoirs. This approach, which incorporates exponential membership degrees and recalibrated weighting factors derived from actual cases, breaks the limitations of linear membership calculation methods and human factors in expert scoring methods utilized in existing decision-making methodologies. It furnishes oilfield decision-makers with a swifter and more precise well selection method.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantitative Evaluation, Efficient Development, Seepage, and Simulation of Geo-Energy Resources)
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Open AccessArticle
Confluence Effect of Debris-Filled Damage and Temperature Variations on Guided-Wave Ultrasonic Testing (GWUT)
by
Samuel C. Olisa and Muhammad A. Khan
Processes 2024, 12(5), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050957 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Continuous monitoring of structural health is essential for the timely detection of damage and avoidance of structural failure. Guided-wave ultrasonic testing (GWUT) assesses structural damages by correlating its sensitive features with the damage parameter of interest. However, few or no studies have been
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Continuous monitoring of structural health is essential for the timely detection of damage and avoidance of structural failure. Guided-wave ultrasonic testing (GWUT) assesses structural damages by correlating its sensitive features with the damage parameter of interest. However, few or no studies have been performed on the detection and influence of debris-filled damage on GWUT under environmental conditions. This paper used the pitch–catch technique of GWUT, signal cross-correlation, statistical root mean square (RMS) and root mean square deviation (RMSD) to study the combined influence of varying debris-filled damage percentages and temperatures on damage detection. Through experimental result analysis, a predictive model with an R2 of about 78% and RMSE values of about was established. When validated, the model proved effective, with a comparable relative error of less than 10%.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industrial Process Operation State Sensing and Performance Optimization)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Hydrothermal Hydrolysis of Cocoa Bean Shell to Obtain Bioactive Compounds
by
Marta Sánchez, Tamara Bernal, Amanda Laca, Adriana Laca and Mario Díaz
Processes 2024, 12(5), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050956 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Cocoa bean shell (CBS), a by-product from the chocolate industry, is an interesting source of bioactive compounds. In this work, the effects of time and pH on the hydrothermal hydrolysis of CBS were evaluated with the aim of maximizing the extraction of antioxidant
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Cocoa bean shell (CBS), a by-product from the chocolate industry, is an interesting source of bioactive compounds. In this work, the effects of time and pH on the hydrothermal hydrolysis of CBS were evaluated with the aim of maximizing the extraction of antioxidant and functional compounds from this biomass. In general, all treatments tested led to improvements in the extraction of bioactive compounds compared to untreated samples. The maximum values for antioxidant activity (187 µmol TE/g CBS dw) and phenolic compounds (14.5 mg GAE/g CBS dw) were obtained when CBS was treated at pH 4 for 10 min. In addition, maximum amounts of flavonoids (10.1 mg CE/g CBS dw), tannins (6.5 mg CE/g CBS dw) and methylxanthines (9 mg/g CBS dw) were obtained under mild pH conditions (4–5). It is noteworthy that these values are higher than those reported in the literature for other vegetable substrates, highlighting the potential of CBS to be valorized as a source of different value-adding products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technologies for Production, Processing, and Extractions of Nature Product Compounds, 2nd Volume)
Open AccessReview
Mass Transport and Energy Conversion of Magnetic Nanofluids from Nanoparticles’ Movement and Liquid Manipulation
by
Fei Xu, Yaowen Cao, Hanwen Gong, Juan Li, Ying Xu and Lei Shi
Processes 2024, 12(5), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050955 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Magnetic nanofluids, also referred to as ferromagnetic particle levitation systems, are materials with highly responsive magnetic properties. Due to their magnetic responsiveness, excellent controllability, favorable thermal characteristics, and versatility, magnetic nanofluids have sparked considerable interest in both industrial manufacturing and scientific research. Magnetic
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Magnetic nanofluids, also referred to as ferromagnetic particle levitation systems, are materials with highly responsive magnetic properties. Due to their magnetic responsiveness, excellent controllability, favorable thermal characteristics, and versatility, magnetic nanofluids have sparked considerable interest in both industrial manufacturing and scientific research. Magnetic nanofluids have been used and developed in diverse areas such as materials science, physics, chemistry and engineering due to their remarkable characteristics such as rapid magnetic reaction, elastic flow capacities, and tunable thermal and optical properties. This paper provides a full and in-depth introduction to the diverse uses of ferrofluids including material fabrication, fluid droplet manipulation, and biomedicine for the power and machinery sectors. As a result, magnetic nanofluids have shown promising applications and have provided innovative ideas for multidisciplinary research in biology, chemistry, physics and materials science. This paper also presents an overview of the device construction and the latest developments in magnetic-nanofluid-related equipment, as well as possible challenging issues and promising future scenarios.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnetic Nanoparticles in Green Manufacturing for Sustainability)
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Open AccessArticle
Wind Shear Model Considering Atmospheric Stability to Improve Accuracy of Wind Resource Assessment
by
Hongpeng Liu, Guanjin Chen, Zejia Hua, Jingang Zhang and Qing Wang
Processes 2024, 12(5), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050954 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
An accurate wind shear model is an important prerequisite in extrapolating the wind resource from lower heights to the increasing hub height of wind turbines. Based on the 1-year dataset (collected in 2014) consisting of 15-minute intervals collected at heights of 2, 10,
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An accurate wind shear model is an important prerequisite in extrapolating the wind resource from lower heights to the increasing hub height of wind turbines. Based on the 1-year dataset (collected in 2014) consisting of 15-minute intervals collected at heights of 2, 10, 50, 100, and 150 m on an anemometer tower in northern China, the present study focuses on the time-varying relationship between the wind shear coefficient (WSC) and atmospheric stability and proposes a wind shear model considering atmospheric stability. Through the relationship between Monin–Obukhov (M-O) length and gradient Richardson number, the M-O length is directly calculated by wind data, and the WSC is calculated by combining the Panofsky and Dutton (PD) models, which enhances the engineering practicability of the model. Then, the performance of the model is quantified and compared with two alternative methods: the use of annual average WSC and the use of stability change WSC extrapolation. The analysis demonstrates that the proposed model outperforms the other approaches in terms of normal root mean square error (NRMSE) and normal bias (NB). More specifically, this method reduces the NRMSE and NB by 24–29% and 76–95%, respectively. Meanwhile, it reaches the highest extrapolation accuracy under unstable and stable atmospheric conditions. The results are verified using the Weibull distribution.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wind Energy Assessment Based on CFD Simulations and Analytical Techniques)
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Open AccessEditorial
Progress of Optimization in Manufacturing Industries and Energy System
by
Dapeng Zhang, Qiangda Yang and Yuwen You
Processes 2024, 12(5), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050953 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The manufacturing and energy industry are typical complex large systems which cover a long cycle such as design [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design, Modeling, Optimization and Control in Manufacturing Industries and Energy System)
Open AccessArticle
Study and Application of Rock Drilling Resistance Characteristics in the Jiyang Depression Formation
by
Xiaoyong Ma, Wei Cheng and Liang Zhu
Processes 2024, 12(5), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050952 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
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In response to the unclear drilling resistance characteristics of rocks in the Ji’yang Depression, low drilling efficiency of PDC drill bits, and difficulties in drill bit selection, this study selected rock samples from different depths in the area for indoor drilling resistance analysis
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In response to the unclear drilling resistance characteristics of rocks in the Ji’yang Depression, low drilling efficiency of PDC drill bits, and difficulties in drill bit selection, this study selected rock samples from different depths in the area for indoor drilling resistance analysis testing. Based on logging data, a prediction model was established for drilling resistance characteristics parameters of the strata in the area, and a graph of drilling resistance characteristic parameters of the rocks in the area was drawn. The study showed that the uniaxial compressive strength of the strata rocks was 50–110 MPa, with a hardness of 500–1300 MPa, a plasticity coefficient ranging from 1 to 2, a rock drillability grade of 8–20, and an abrasiveness index of 5–20. Combining the analysis of on-site drilling bit failures, PDC drill bits adapted to the strata in the area were selected, and the mechanical drilling speed of the selected bits reached 12.58 m/h, successfully drilling through the target layer. The above research results are of guiding significance for understanding the reasons for the difficulty of drilling into the Jiyang Depression strata and for improving mechanical drilling speed and drill bit selection in this area.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Ultrasonically Assisted Electrocoagulation Combined with Zeolite in Compost Wastewater Treatment
by
Sandra Svilović, Nediljka Vukojević Medvidović, Ladislav Vrsalović, Senka Gudić and Ana-Marija Mikulandra
Processes 2024, 12(5), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050951 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, the possibility of combining electrocoagulation (EC), ultrasound, and the addition of zeolite for wastewater treatment was investigated for the first time. The following combinations of hybrid processes were tested: electrocoagulation with zeolite (ECZ), simultaneous electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (ECZ+US),
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In this paper, the possibility of combining electrocoagulation (EC), ultrasound, and the addition of zeolite for wastewater treatment was investigated for the first time. The following combinations of hybrid processes were tested: electrocoagulation with zeolite (ECZ), simultaneous electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (ECZ+US), and two-stage electrocoagulation with zeolite and ultrasound (US+Z - EC), carried out with three different electrode materials. The results show that the simultaneous assistance of ultrasound in the ECZ leads to a lower increase in pH, while the temperature increase is higher. Regarding the COD, the assistance of ultrasound is only useful for Zn electrodes in the two-stage US+Z - EC, while the reduction in voltage consumption occurs for Fe and Al electrodes. Ultrasonic assistance caused more damage to the anodes, but anode consumption was reduced for Al and Zn electrodes. The total amount of zeolite that can be recovered is between 55–97%, and recovery is higher in systems with higher turbidity reduction. Good settling ability is only achieved with Al and Fe electrodes in simultaneous performance. Taguchi’s orthogonal L9 array design was applied to analyze the effects of electrode material, process type, mixing speed, and time duration on COD decrease, settling velocity, electrode, and voltage consumption. The results show that the use of ultrasound does not contribute to the desired result and generally only has a favorable effect on voltage and electrode consumption, while it has no positive effect on settling ability or COD decrease. Furthermore, although longer times and higher mixing speeds negatively impact cost due to voltage and electrode consumption, it is advisable not to choose the shortest duration and lowest speed to obtain adequate wastewater treatment quality.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment and Remediation of Organic and Inorganic Pollutants)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on Multi-Objective Process Parameter Optimization Method in Hard Turning Based on an Improved NSGA-II Algorithm
by
Zhengrui Zhang, Fei Wu and Aonan Wu
Processes 2024, 12(5), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050950 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
To address the issue of local optima encountered during the multi-objective optimization process with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) algorithm, this paper introduces an enhanced version of the NSGA-II. This improved NSGA-II incorporates polynomial and simulated binary crossover operators into the
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To address the issue of local optima encountered during the multi-objective optimization process with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) algorithm, this paper introduces an enhanced version of the NSGA-II. This improved NSGA-II incorporates polynomial and simulated binary crossover operators into the genetic algorithm’s crossover phase to refine its performance. For evaluation purposes, the classic ZDT benchmark functions are employed. The findings reveal that the enhanced NSGA-II algorithm achieves higher convergence accuracy and surpasses the performance of the original NSGA-II algorithm. When applied to the machining of the high-hardness material 20MnCrTi, four algorithms were utilized: the improved NSGA-II, the conventional NSGA-II, NSGA-III, and MOEA/D. The experimental outcomes show that the improved NSGA-II algorithm delivers a more optimal combination of process parameters, effectively enhancing the workpiece’s surface roughness and material removal rate. This leads to a significant improvement in the machining quality of the workpiece surface, demonstrating the superiority of the improved algorithm in optimizing machining processes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Catalytic Conversion of Oil Shale over Fe or Ni Catalysts under Sub-Critical Water
by
Chang Che, Junwen Wu, Zhibing Shen, Haolong Ning, Ruiyuan Tang, Shengrong Liang, Juntao Zhang, Haiyan Jiang and Shibao Yuan
Processes 2024, 12(5), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050949 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Sub-critical water is an environment-friendly solvent. It is widely used for the extraction of various organic compounds. It can be used to dissolve and transport organic matter in oil shale. In this study, the conversion of oil shale was synergistically catalyzed by the
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Sub-critical water is an environment-friendly solvent. It is widely used for the extraction of various organic compounds. It can be used to dissolve and transport organic matter in oil shale. In this study, the conversion of oil shale was synergistically catalyzed by the addition of Fe or Ni to the Fe inherent in samples under sub-critical water conditions. Oil shale can be converted to gas, oil and residues of oil. Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis results presented that the weight loss of raw oil shale was up to 15.85%. After sub-critical water extraction, the weight loss rate of the residues was reduced to 8.41%. With the application of a metal catalyst, Fe or Ni, the weight loss of residues was further reduced to 7.43% and 6.57%, respectively. According to DTG curves, it was found that there were two weight-loss rate peaks. The decomposition process of kerogen in oil shale could be divided into two cracking processes. One is decomposed at a high velocity at around 420 °C, and another is decomposed at a low velocity at around 515 °C. Gas chromatography (GC) results of gas products indicated that Fe or Ni could contribute to producing normal alkanes, such as methane, ethane, propane, etc., which are produced by the hydrogenation of alkenes via hydrogen transfer during the conversion process of kerogen. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was conducted to analyze the components of the liquid products. The results showed that n-alkanes, iso-alkane, oxygenated hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds were the major components of the kerogen cracking products. When Ni was introduced as a catalyst, the contents of aromatic compounds and oxygenated hydrocarbons in the liquid products were increased from 19.55% and 6.87% to 22.38% and 13.77%, respectively. This is due to the synergistic effect of the addition of Ni with the inherent Fe in oil shale under sub-critical water which ensures kerogen is more easily cracked to produce aromatic compounds and oxygenated hydrocarbons.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Technologies for Heavy Oils and Residua Upgradings)
Open AccessArticle
Texture and Twinning Evolution of Cold-Rolled Industrial Pure Zirconium
by
Yuan Liu, Yiming Li, Weimin Mao, Huiyi Bai, Qi Fang, Yunping Ji and Huiping Ren
Processes 2024, 12(5), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050948 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Industrial pure zirconium plays an essential role as a structural material in the nuclear energy sector. Understanding the deformation mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing the plasticity and texture evolution of industrial pure zirconium. In the present study, the texture and microstructure evolution
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Industrial pure zirconium plays an essential role as a structural material in the nuclear energy sector. Understanding the deformation mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing the plasticity and texture evolution of industrial pure zirconium. In the present study, the texture and microstructure evolution of industrial pure zirconium during the cold-rolling process have been characterized by XRD, EBSD, and TEM. The influences of various twins on texture evolution have also been simulated by the reaction stress model. The effects of slip and twinning on the deformation behavior and texture evolution have been discussed based on crystallographic and experimental considerations. Cold rolling yields a typical bimodal texture, resulting in the preferential <2110>//RD orientation. The activation of the deformation mechanisms during cold rolling follows the sequential trend of slip, twinning, local slip. Experimental characterization and reaction stress simulation illustrate that T1 twins dominate in the early stage, whereas C2 twins develop at the later stage of the cold-rolling process. Twinning, especially the T1 twin, contributes to the formation of the {0001}<1010> orientation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Research and Development of Materials and Processes)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Novel Ferrocene-Containing Triacyl Derivative of Resveratrol Protects Ovarian Cells from Toxicity Caused by Ortho-Substituted Polychlorinated Biphenyls
by
Ivana Kmetič, Teuta Murati, Veronika Kovač, Lidija Barišić, Nina Bilandžić, Branimir Šimić and Marina Miletić
Processes 2024, 12(5), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050947 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can induce neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity (IARC group 1 Carcinogens). Scientific data suggest that resveratrol possesses the ability to attenuate ortho-PCB-induced toxicity. Recently, a novel ferrocene-containing triacyl derivative of resveratrol (RF) was synthesized and in this
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Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can induce neurotoxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity (IARC group 1 Carcinogens). Scientific data suggest that resveratrol possesses the ability to attenuate ortho-PCB-induced toxicity. Recently, a novel ferrocene-containing triacyl derivative of resveratrol (RF) was synthesized and in this study, its potential to protect CHO-K1 cells from selected PCB congeners (75 µM) was evaluated. Cell viability/proliferation was observed by Trypan Blue (TB), Neutral Red (NR), Kenacid Blue (KB), and MTT bioassays, ROS formation by fluorescent probes, and the extent of apoptosis by flow cytometry. All applied bioassays confirmed that RF (2.5–100 μM) remarkably improves viability in PCB 153-treated cells with an increase in cell survival almost up to control levels. This effect was not determined after PCB 77 exposure, although ROS formation was decreased at RF ≥ 50 µM. Apoptosis was significant (p < 0.05) for both congeners. In PCB 77-treated cells, RF did not suppress the induction of cell death. The intended protective effect of RF was evident when cells were treated with PCB 153, and this correlates with results obtained for cell viability. Compared to resveratrol, the novel RF showed promising results in terms of improved biological activity and cell protection against PCB 153 toxicity at all concentrations tested.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Biotechnological Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Investment Strategy and Benefit Analysis of Power and Heat Hybrid Energy Storage in Industrial Parks Based on Energy Performance Contracting
by
Feng Xiao and Yali Wang
Processes 2024, 12(5), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12050946 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
To solve the problems of a single mode of energy supply and high energy cost in the park, the investment strategy of power and heat hybrid energy storage in the park based on contract energy management is proposed. Firstly, the concept of energy
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To solve the problems of a single mode of energy supply and high energy cost in the park, the investment strategy of power and heat hybrid energy storage in the park based on contract energy management is proposed. Firstly, the concept of energy performance contracting (EPC) and the advantages and disadvantages of its main modes are analyzed, and the basic scheme of EPC for parks is proposed combined with the actual demand. Furthermore, the multiple energy storage model for power and heat storage in parks is established, which includes lithium batteries and heat storage tanks. Based on this, minimizing the annual operation cost of parks is taken as the optimization goal, and the capacity optimization model for power and heat storage is constructed, which considers the investment costs, operation and maintenance costs, purchased energy costs, peak-shaving subsidy, and environmental subsidy. Finally, an industrial park is selected as an example of EPC to verify the effectiveness of our proposed investment strategy. The results show that compared with the situation before the energy-saving renovation, the park can save 35.14 ten thousand CNY in annual cost expenses. When the unit power price of the lithium battery exceeds 3900 CNY/kW, the unit capacity price exceeds 5460 CNY/kWh, the unit power price of the heat storage tank (HST) exceeds 6000 CNY/kW, and the unit capacity price exceeds 1000 CNY/kWh, the configuration of the lithium battery and HST in the park is no longer the optimal choice to perform the energy-saving renovation.
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(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
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