Resources

23 pages, 12145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Optimization of Bioenergy Production by Introducing a Cooperative Manure Management System in Bangladesh

by Zinat Mahal and Helmut Yabar

Resources 2025, 14(7), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070111 - 10 Jul 2025

This study anticipates cooperative manure management as a process for generating bioenergy from livestock manure, thereby reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Bangladesh. Therefore, this study’s main objective was to identify clusters for cooperative society development and optimize suitable locations for biogas plant [...] Read more.

This study anticipates cooperative manure management as a process for generating bioenergy from livestock manure, thereby reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Bangladesh. Therefore, this study’s main objective was to identify clusters for cooperative society development and optimize suitable locations for biogas plant establishment within a cooperative system. Scenarios were explored based on manure types using cluster and network analyses of geographic information systems (GIS). The study observed 13 clusters, which have the potential to produce 6045 million m³ of biogas that can be converted to 9068.64 GWh of electricity yearly. Biogas plants additionally produced 5491.04 kilotons of biofertilizer by reducing GHG emissions estimated to be 10.16 million tons of CO_2eq in 2024. This study also optimized 10, 6, and 8 optimum locations for biogas plants according to the scenarios. To implement the findings, this study recommended a coordinated action plan based on the circular economy, which helps to obtain both environmental and economic benefits for a cooperative society. These cooperatives can be implemented for renewable energy production from livestock manure at the community level for sustainable energy generation in Bangladesh. Full article

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18 pages, 3007 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Reservoir Modeling via the Black Oil Model for Horizontal Wells: South Rumaila Oilfield, Iraq

by Dhyaa H. Haddad, Sameera Hamd-Allah and Mohamed Reda

Resources 2025, 14(7), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070110 - 9 Jul 2025

Viewed by 107

Abstract

Horizontal wells have revolutionized hydrocarbon production by enhancing recovery efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This paper presents an enhanced Black Oil Model simulator, written in Visual Basic, for three-dimensional two-phase (oil and water) flow through porous media. Unlike most existing tools, this simulator [...] Read more.

Horizontal wells have revolutionized hydrocarbon production by enhancing recovery efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This paper presents an enhanced Black Oil Model simulator, written in Visual Basic, for three-dimensional two-phase (oil and water) flow through porous media. Unlike most existing tools, this simulator is customized for horizontal well modeling and calibrated using extensive historical data from the South Rumaila Oilfield, Iraq. The simulator first achieves a strong match with historical pressure data (1954–2004) using vertical wells, with an average deviation of less than 5% from observed pressures, and is then applied to forecast the performance of hypothetical horizontal wells (2008–2011). The results validate the simulator’s reliability in estimating bottom-hole pressure (e.g., ±3% accuracy for HRU1 well) and water–oil ratios (e.g., WOR reduction of 15% when increasing horizontal well length from 1000 m to 2000 m). Notably, the simulator demonstrated that doubling the horizontal well length reduced WOR by 15% while increasing bottom-hole pressure by only 2%, highlighting the efficiency of longer wells in mitigating water encroachment. This work contributes to improved reservoir management by enabling efficient well placement strategies and optimizing extraction planning, thereby promoting both economic and resource-efficient hydrocarbon recovery. Full article

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16 pages, 2041 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking the Industrial Potential of Cambuci Peel: A Sustainable Approach Based on Its Physicochemical Profile

by Juver Andrey Jimenez Moreno, Tiago Linhares Cruz Tabosa Barroso, Luiz Eduardo Nochi Castro, Leda Maria Saragiotto Colpini, Felipe Sanchez Bragagnolo, Mauricio Ariel Rostagno and Tânia Forster Carneiro

Resources 2025, 14(7), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070109 - 4 Jul 2025

Viewed by 301

Abstract

Cambuci is a native fruit from Brazil, and during the processing of this fruit, the peel is typically discarded due to limited knowledge of its physicochemical characteristics, which restricts its potential applications across various industries. Given the lack of detailed physicochemical characterization of [...] Read more.

Cambuci is a native fruit from Brazil, and during the processing of this fruit, the peel is typically discarded due to limited knowledge of its physicochemical characteristics, which restricts its potential applications across various industries. Given the lack of detailed physicochemical characterization of this by-product in the literature, this study aimed to analyze key parameters to expand on our understanding of this raw material and stimulate interest from both academia and industry. The cambuci peel was found to have a moisture content of 9.41 ± 1.69% dw (dry weight), total solids of 90.59 ± 1.69% dw, and volatile solids of 87.41 ± 1.69%. Its ash content was 3.18 ± 0.41%, while the chemical oxygen demand (COD) reached 420.54 ± 9.88 mg L⁻¹. The total protein content was 4.93 ± 0.04 g/100 g dw, with reducing sugars at 108.22 ± 3.71 mg g⁻¹ and non-reducing sugars at 30.58 ± 3.16 mg g⁻¹. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were determined as 36.65 ± 0.19% dw and 18.91 ± 0.05% dw, respectively, with hemicellulose content of 17.74 ± 0.20% dw. Chromatographic analysis identified key bioactive compounds, including ellagic and gallic acid, which hold significant potential for pharmaceutical and food industry applications. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed three distinct decomposition zones, corresponding to physisorbed water, hemicellulose decomposition, and cellulose degradation, respectively. The results demonstrate the valuable physicochemical and biochemical properties of cambuci peel, supporting its potential for the development of new bioproducts aligned with circular economy principles. This study lays the foundation for further research into this underutilized by-product and its application in diverse industrial sectors. Full article

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18 pages, 1485 KiB

Open AccessReview

Organic Crop Production in Kazakhstan: Agronomic Solutions and Bioresources

by Timur Savin and Alexey Morgounov

Resources 2025, 14(7), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070108 - 30 Jun 2025

Viewed by 292

Abstract

Crop production in Kazakhstan is characterized by vast resources, including over 200 M hectares of farmland and more than 23 M hectares of arable land located mainly in the arid zone with a short growing season. In 2023, the five most important crops [...] Read more.

Crop production in Kazakhstan is characterized by vast resources, including over 200 M hectares of farmland and more than 23 M hectares of arable land located mainly in the arid zone with a short growing season. In 2023, the five most important crops in the country were spring wheat (12.5 M ha), spring barley (2.42 M ha), sunflower (1.13 M ha), flax (0.73 M ha), and winter wheat (0.59 M ha). Diverse agroecological conditions and low input farming represent good opportunities for the more sustainable use of resources through organic production. However, the area falling under certified organic farming recently varied from 0.1 to 0.3 M ha with wheat, flax, soybean and soybean meal, peas and lentils serving as the main commodities exported to Europe. Several factors limit organic farming development in the country, including the certification system, marketing, and the availability of crops, cultivars, and technologies. The current review summarizes the main organic agronomic practices and bioresources applicable in Kazakhstan into four main themes: crops and cultivars’ diversification; tillage systems for organic crops; crop nutrition; and protection. The technologies developed for organic farming in similar ecologies globally are highly relevant to Kazakhstan and need to be tested and adopted by producers. The lack of targeted cultivars and technology development for organic production in Kazakhstan impedes its progress and requires a longer-term producer-focused framework to extend related research. Full article

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18 pages, 4971 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Tundish Deskulling Waste as a Source of MgO for Producing Magnesium Phosphate Cement-Based Mortars: Advancing Sustainable Construction Materials

by Anna Alfocea-Roig, David Vera-Rivera, Sergio Huete-Hernández, Jessica Giro-Paloma and Joan Formosa Mitjans

Resources 2025, 14(7), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070107 - 29 Jun 2025

Viewed by 402

Abstract

Currently, the cement industry stands as one of the sectors with the most significant environmental impact, primarily due to its substantial greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. To mitigate this impact, a roadmap has been followed in recent years, outlining a set of [...] Read more.

Currently, the cement industry stands as one of the sectors with the most significant environmental impact, primarily due to its substantial greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. To mitigate this impact, a roadmap has been followed in recent years, outlining a set of objectives aimed at diminishing the environmental footprint of the construction industry. This research focuses on the development of mortars with different water/cement ratios employing an alternative cement, specifically magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) formulated with secondary sources. The goal of this research relays in developing mortars based on MPC by using waste from the metallurgical industry, named tundish deskulling waste (TUN), as an MgO source. The results revealed the optimal water/cement (W/C) ratio for MPC-TUN mortars production through the assessment of various characterization techniques, which was 0.55. This ratio resulted in the highest compressive strength after 28 days of curing and the formation of a stable K-struvite matrix. Furthermore, it demonstrated the effectiveness of aluminum sulphate in preventing efflorescence caused by carbonates. The development of alternative masonry mortars for application in building materials represents a significant stride towards advancing the principles of a circular economy, in alignment with the objectives laid out in the 2030 roadmap. Full article

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31 pages, 1271 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Projects’ Prospects in the Economic and Technological Development of the Oil and Gas Complex in the Republic of Mozambique

by Tatyana Semenova and Nunes Churrana

Resources 2025, 14(7), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070106 - 28 Jun 2025

Viewed by 313

Abstract

This study is devoted to a comprehensive technical and economic assessment of the prospects for the development of the oil and gas sector in the Republic of Mozambique in the context of the global energy transition. The analysis of key gas projects, including [...] Read more.

This study is devoted to a comprehensive technical and economic assessment of the prospects for the development of the oil and gas sector in the Republic of Mozambique in the context of the global energy transition. The analysis of key gas projects, including Coral South FLNG and Mozambique LNG, focused on their technological features, economic parameters and environmental impact. It is shown that the introduction of floating liquefaction technology reduces capital expenditures, increases operational flexibility, and minimizes infrastructure risks, especially in conditions of geopolitical instability. Based on a comparative analysis of the projects, it was found that the use of modular solutions and the integration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) systems contribute to improving sustainability and investment attractiveness. A patent analysis of technological innovations was carried out, which made it possible to substantiate the prospects for using nanotechnologies and advanced CO₂ capture systems for further development of the sector. The results of the study indicate the need to strengthen content localization, develop human capital, and create effective revenue management mechanisms to ensure sustainable growth. The developed strategic development concept is based on the principles of the sixth technological paradigm, which implies an emphasis on environmental standards and technological modernization, including on the basis of nanotechnology. Thus, it is established that the successful implementation of gas projects in Mozambique can become the basis for long-term socio-economic development of the country, provided that technological and institutional innovations are integrated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Optimization of Energy Efficiency)

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6 pages, 198 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Importance, Strategies, and Future Prospects of Mine Ecological Restoration

by Rongkui Su

Resources 2025, 14(7), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070105 - 27 Jun 2025

Viewed by 263

Abstract

For a long time, mining has been a critical industry, providing essential resources for development and progress [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mine Ecological Restoration)

16 pages, 3885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictability and Impact of Structural Reinforcement on Unplanned Dilution in Sublevel Stoping Operations

by Thaís Janine Oliveira and Anna Luiza Marques Ayres da Silva

Resources 2025, 14(7), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070104 - 24 Jun 2025

Viewed by 311

Abstract

Unplanned dilution is a critical challenge in underground mining, directly affecting operating costs, resource recovery, stope stability and operational safety. This study presents an empirical–statistical framework that integrates the Mathews–Potvin stability graph, the Equivalent Linear Overbreak/Slough (ELOS) metric, and a site-specific linear calibration [...] Read more.

Unplanned dilution is a critical challenge in underground mining, directly affecting operating costs, resource recovery, stope stability and operational safety. This study presents an empirical–statistical framework that integrates the Mathews–Potvin stability graph, the Equivalent Linear Overbreak/Slough (ELOS) metric, and a site-specific linear calibration to improve dilution prediction in sublevel stoping operations. A database of more than 65 stopes from a Brazilian underground zinc mine was analyzed and classified as cable-bolted, non-cable-bolted, or self-supported. Planned dilution derived from the Potvin graph was compared with actual ELOS measured by cavity-monitoring surveys. Results show a strong correlation between cable-bolted/supported stopes (r = 0.918), whereas non-cabled/unsupported and self-supported stopes display lower correlations (r = 0.755 and 0.767). Applying a site-specific linear calibration lowered the mean absolute dilution error from 0.126 m to 0.101 m (≈20%), with the largest improvement (≈29%) occurring in self-supported stopes where the unadjusted graph is least reliable. Because the equation can be embedded in routine stability calculations, mines can obtain more realistic forecasts without abandoning established empirical workflows. Beyond geotechnical accuracy, the calibrated forecasts improve grade-control decisions, reduce unnecessary waste haulage, and extend resource life—thereby enhancing both the efficiency and the accessibility of mineral resources. This research delivers the first Brazilian case study that couples Potvin analysis with ELOS back-analysis to generate an operational calibration tool, offering a practical pathway for other sites to refine dilution estimates while retaining the simplicity of empirical design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2025: Assessment, Mining and Processing)

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30 pages, 76684 KiB

Open AccessReview

Offshore Geothermal Energy Perspectives: Hotspots and Challenges

by Paulo H. Gulelmo Souza and Alexandre Szklo

Resources 2025, 14(7), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070103 - 23 Jun 2025

Viewed by 563

Abstract

Geothermal energy is a low-carbon and reliable energy resource capable of generating both heat and electricity from the Earth’s internal thermal energy. While geothermal development has traditionally been focused on onshore sites, offshore geothermal resources are attracting growing interest due to advancements in [...] Read more.

Geothermal energy is a low-carbon and reliable energy resource capable of generating both heat and electricity from the Earth’s internal thermal energy. While geothermal development has traditionally been focused on onshore sites, offshore geothermal resources are attracting growing interest due to advancements in technology, the search for alternative baseload power, and the opportunity to repurpose decommissioned petroleum infrastructure. Recent efforts include utilizing abandoned oil and gas fields to adapt existing infrastructure for geothermal use, as well as exploring high-temperature geothermal zones such as submarine volcanoes and hotspots. Despite these initiatives, research output, scientific publications and patents remain relatively limited, suggesting that offshore geothermal technology is still in its early stages. Countries like Italy, Indonesia and Turkey are actively investigating geothermal resources in volcanic marine areas, while North Sea countries and the USA are assessing the feasibility of converting mature oil and gas fields into geothermal energy sites. These diverse strategies underscore the regional geological and infrastructure conditions in shaping development approaches. Although expertise from the oil and gas industry can accelerate technological progress in marine geothermal energy, economic challenges remain. Therefore, improving cost competitiveness is crucial for offshore geothermal energy. Full article

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46 pages, 2226 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Integration of Bioresources for Sustainable Development in Organic Farming: A Comprehensive Review

by Antigolena Folina, Ioanna Kakabouki, Konstantinos Baginetas and Dimitrios Bilalis

Resources 2025, 14(7), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14070102 - 23 Jun 2025

Viewed by 416

Abstract

Organic farming relies on sustainable, eco-friendly practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Bioresources—derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms—are pivotal in replacing synthetic inputs with natural alternatives. This review presents an integrated analysis of bioresources, highlighting their classification, functionality, and role [...] Read more.

Organic farming relies on sustainable, eco-friendly practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Bioresources—derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms—are pivotal in replacing synthetic inputs with natural alternatives. This review presents an integrated analysis of bioresources, highlighting their classification, functionality, and role in organic systems through biofertilizers, biopesticides, organic amendments, and bioenergy. Despite their potential, challenges such as knowledge gaps, limited scalability, and technical constraints hinder their widespread adoption. The review emphasizes the ecological, economic, and social benefits of bioresource integration while identifying critical barriers and proposing strategic directions for research, policy, and practice. By addressing these gaps, bioresources can enhance nutrient cycling, pest management, and soil regeneration, offering a viable path toward sustainable agriculture. This synthesis supports the development of context-specific, circular, and resilient organic farming systems that align with global sustainability goals. Full article

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