Processes

27 pages, 2826 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Modeling Permeation through Mixed-Matrix Membranes: A Review

by Gloria M. Monsalve-Bravo

and Suresh K. Bhatia^*

School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia

Processes 2018, 6(9), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090172 - 18 Sep 2018

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 10497

Abstract

Over the past three decades, mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), comprising an inorganic filler phase embedded in a polymer matrix, have emerged as a promising alternative to overcome limitations of conventional polymer and inorganic membranes. However, while much effort has been devoted to MMMs in [...] Read more.

Over the past three decades, mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), comprising an inorganic filler phase embedded in a polymer matrix, have emerged as a promising alternative to overcome limitations of conventional polymer and inorganic membranes. However, while much effort has been devoted to MMMs in practice, their modeling is largely based on early theories for transport in composites. These theories consider uniform transport properties and driving force, and thus models for the permeability in MMMs often perform unsatisfactorily when compared to experimental permeation data. In this work, we review existing theories for permeation in MMMs and discuss their fundamental assumptions and limitations with the aim of providing future directions permitting new models to consider realistic MMM operating conditions. Furthermore, we compare predictions of popular permeation models against available experimental and simulation-based permeation data, and discuss the suitability of these models for predicting MMM permeability under typical operating conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport of Fluids in Nanoporous Materials)

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26 pages, 11948 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Investigation of the Failure Mechanism of Transversely Isotropic Rocks with a Particle Flow Modeling Method

by Xu-Xu Yang^1,2,*, Hong-Wen Jing² and Wei-Guo Qiao¹

¹ Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Civil Engineering Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

² State Key Laboratory for Geomechanics and Deep Underground Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China

Processes 2018, 6(9), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090171 - 17 Sep 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4643

Abstract

Transversely isotropic rocks are commonly encountered in rock engineering practices, and their strength and failure behavior is often governed by the property of anisotropy. The particle flow modeling method was utilized to investigate the failure mechanism of transversely isotropic rocks subject to uniaxial [...] Read more.

Transversely isotropic rocks are commonly encountered in rock engineering practices, and their strength and failure behavior is often governed by the property of anisotropy. The particle flow modeling method was utilized to investigate the failure mechanism of transversely isotropic rocks subject to uniaxial compressive loading. The details for establishing transversely isotropic rock models were first presented, and then a parametric study was carried out to look into the effect of interface properties on the failure mode and strength of transversely isotropic rock models by varying the interface dip angle. The smooth joint model was incorporated to create interfaces for the completeness of establishing transversely isotropic rock models with the particle flow modeling method. Accordingly, three failure modes observed in transversely isotropic rock models with varying dip angles were tensile failure across interfaces, shear failure along interfaces, and tensile failure along interfaces. Furthermore, the interface mechanical parameters were found to differently influence the failure behavior of transversely isotropic rock models. The bonded joint cohesion and bonded joint friction angle that contribute to the shear strength of interfaces have considerable influence on the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) values, while the joint coefficient of friction and joint tensile strength have a slight influence on the UCS values. The findings in this paper indicated the importance of interfaces in estimating failure behavior of transversely isotropic rocks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fluid Flow in Fractured Porous Media)

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22 pages, 4411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Organic Ligands on the Colloidal Stability and Removal of ZnO Nanoparticles from Synthetic Waters by Coagulation

by Rizwan Khan¹

, Muhammad Ali Inam¹

, Du Ri Park¹

, Saba Zam Zam¹, Sookyo Shin¹, Sarfaraz Khan², Muhammad Akram³ and Ick Tae Yeom^1,*

¹ Graduate School of Water Resources, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) 2066, Suwon 16419, Korea

² Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region Eco-Environment, State Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China

³ Shandong Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266200, China

Processes 2018, 6(9), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090170 - 17 Sep 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5931

Abstract

The large-scale production and usage of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) may lead to their post-release into the aquatic environment. In this study, the effect of hydrophobic/hydrophilic organic ligands on sorption and sedimentation of ZnO NPs has been systematically investigated. In addition, the [...] Read more.

The large-scale production and usage of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) may lead to their post-release into the aquatic environment. In this study, the effect of hydrophobic/hydrophilic organic ligands on sorption and sedimentation of ZnO NPs has been systematically investigated. In addition, the coagulation efficiency of ZnO NPs, Zn²⁺, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and UV₂₅₄ with varying ferric chloride (FC) dosages in synthetic waters were also evaluated. The results showed that the higher concentration of organic ligands, i.e., humic acid (HA), salicylic acid (SA), and L-cysteine (L-cys) reduced the ζ-potential and hydrodynamic diameter (HDD) of particles, which enhanced the NPs stability. The adsorption of organic ligands onto ZnO NPs was fitted with the Langmuir model, with maximum adsorption capacities of 143, 40.47, and 66.05 mg/g for HA, SA and L-cys respectively. Removal of up to 95% of ZnO NPs and Zn²⁺ was achieved in studied waters at the effective coagulation zone (ECR), above which excess charge induced by coagulant restabilized the NPs in suspension. Moreover, the removal rate of DOC and UV₂₅₄ were found to be higher in hydrophobic waters than hydrophilic waters. The width of ECR strongly depends on the characteristics of source water. The waters with hydrophobic ligand and higher UV₂₅₄ values require more coagulant than hydrophilic waters to achieve the similar ZnO NPs and Zn²⁺ removal. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis of ZnO NPs composite contaminant flocs indicated that the combined effect of enmeshment and charge neutralization might be a possible removal mechanism. These findings may facilitate the prediction of fate, transport, and removal of ZnO NPs in the natural waters, and might contribute to risk assessment, as well as decision making about engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in aquatic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wastewater Treatment Processes)

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25 pages, 1027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Modeling and Control of an Integrated Reformer-Membrane-Fuel Cell System

by Pravin P. S., Ravindra D. Gudi^* and Sharad Bhartiya^*

Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai 400076, India

Processes 2018, 6(9), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090169 - 17 Sep 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5688

Abstract

Owing to the pollution free nature, higher efficiency and noise free operation, fuel cells have been identified as ideal energy sources for the future. To avoid direct storage of hydrogen due to safety considerations, storing hydrocarbon fuel such as methane and suitably reforming [...] Read more.

Owing to the pollution free nature, higher efficiency and noise free operation, fuel cells have been identified as ideal energy sources for the future. To avoid direct storage of hydrogen due to safety considerations, storing hydrocarbon fuel such as methane and suitably reforming in situ for hydrogen production offers merit for further investigation. Separating the resulting hydrogen in the reformate using membrane separation can directly feed pure gas to the anode side of fuel cell for power generation. Despite the numerous works reported in literature on the dynamic and steady state modeling and analysis of reformers, membrane separation units and fuel cell systems, there has been limited work on an analysis of the integrated system consisting of all the three components. This study focuses on the mathematical modeling and analysis of the integrated reformer, membrane, fuel cell system from first principles in a dynamic framework. A multi loop control strategy is developed and implemented on the mathematical model of the integrated system in which appropriate controllers based on the system dynamics are designed to examine and study the overall closed loop performance to achieve rapidly fluctuating target power demand and rejection of reformer feed and fuel cell coolant temperature disturbances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Simulation of Energy Systems)

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18 pages, 2003 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Time-Based Trend of Carbon Emissions in the Composting Process of Swine Manure in the Context of Agriculture 4.0

by Jun-Ho Huh¹

and Ki-Youn Kim^2,*

¹ Department of Software, Catholic University of Pusan, 46252, Korea

² Department of Safety Engineering, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, Seoul 01811, Korea

Processes 2018, 6(9), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090168 - 15 Sep 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5580

Abstract

The widespread raising of swine in farms becomes a serious problem in terms of the emission of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). This study aims to measure concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane, which account for the largest [...] Read more.

The widespread raising of swine in farms becomes a serious problem in terms of the emission of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). This study aims to measure concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane, which account for the largest percentage of carbon emissions, to temporally estimate the carbon emitted during the pig-manure composting process. The research subject was a farmhouse raising 3000 growing pigs and 100 mother pigs. The capacity of the composting facility for pig manure treatment was 330 m², and the daily treatment was about 6 tons. After the pig manure discharged from the pig farm was delivered to the composting facility, for the 8 days including 6 before mixing and 2 after mixing, the concentrations of CO₂ and CH₄ were measured. The result shows that the CO₂ and CH₄ concentrations in the composting facility were 1208 ± 385 ppm and 95 ± 10 ppm, respectively. In the comparison of concentrations before and after mixing at the composting facility, the values of both CO₂ and CH₄ increased, and the temperature increased as well. The concentration of CO₂ and CH₄ increased to 499 ± 103 ppm and 3 ± 11 ppm, respectively, and the temperature rose by 3.7 ± 1.0 °C and 1.6 ± 2.4 °C, respectively. In the correlation analysis (r = 0, p < 0.05), the carbon dioxide emission in the composting process was 15.564 ± 3.671 tons C/year, whereas carbon emission was 1.379 ± 0.147 tons C/year. The concentrations of CO₂ and methane, which are the current major atmospheric pollution sources, were respectively analyzed during the pig-manure composting process in this study to understand their effects. Thus, this paper attempts to elucidate the carbon cycle by measuring and analyzing the carbon data obtained from livestock excretions to secure a supply chain based on the intelligent use of the data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Industry 4.0: Application Research to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs))

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19 pages, 1995 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards an Aspect-Oriented Design and Modelling Framework for Synthetic Biology

by Philipp Boeing¹, Miriam Leon², Darren N. Nesbeth³

, Anthony Finkelstein¹ and Chris P. Barnes^2,*

¹ Department of Computer Science, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK

² Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK

³ Department of Biochemical Engineering, UCL, London WC1E 6BT, UK

Processes 2018, 6(9), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090167 - 15 Sep 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6920

Abstract

Work on synthetic biology has largely used a component-based metaphor for system construction. While this paradigm has been successful for the construction of numerous systems, the incorporation of contextual design issues—either compositional, host or environmental—will be key to realising more complex applications. Here, [...] Read more.

Work on synthetic biology has largely used a component-based metaphor for system construction. While this paradigm has been successful for the construction of numerous systems, the incorporation of contextual design issues—either compositional, host or environmental—will be key to realising more complex applications. Here, we present a design framework that radically steps away from a purely parts-based paradigm by using aspect-oriented software engineering concepts. We believe that the notion of concerns is a powerful and biologically credible way of thinking about system synthesis. By adopting this approach, we can separate core concerns, which represent modular aims of the design, from cross-cutting concerns, which represent system-wide attributes. The explicit handling of cross-cutting concerns allows for contextual information to enter the design process in a modular way. As a proof-of-principle, we implemented the aspect-oriented approach in the Python tool, SynBioWeaver, which enables the combination, or weaving, of core and cross-cutting concerns. The power and flexibility of this framework is demonstrated through a number of examples covering the inclusion of part context, combining circuit designs in a context dependent manner, and the generation of rule, logic and reaction models from synthetic circuit designs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Synthetic Biology)

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18 pages, 3406 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Basic Dye Removal with Sorption onto Low-Cost Natural Textile Fibers

by George Z. Kyzas^1,*

, Evi Christodoulou²

and Dimitrios N. Bikiaris^2,*

¹ Hephaestus Advanced Laboratory, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Institute of Technology, GR 65404 Kavala, Greece

² Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece

Processes 2018, 6(9), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090166 - 14 Sep 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 7140

Abstract

Over the last several years, the trend of researchers has been to use some very low-cost materials as adsorbents. For this purpose, some already commercially used bast fibers were selected as potential adsorbent materials to remove basic dye from synthetic effluents. The adsorption [...] Read more.

Over the last several years, the trend of researchers has been to use some very low-cost materials as adsorbents. For this purpose, some already commercially used bast fibers were selected as potential adsorbent materials to remove basic dye from synthetic effluents. The adsorption of basic yellow 37 dye was studied using three different bast fibers under the names of flax, ramie, and kenaf. Their morphological structure was examined using several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), crystallinity, X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as well as those characterizations being a useful tool to propose a mechanism of the whole adsorption process. The adsorption evaluation was achieved by studying at first the pH (12) and temperature effects (25–55 °C). Two isotherm models (Langmuir and Freundlich) were also applied to the experimental equilibrium data revealing the superiority of ramie fibers (327, 435, and 460 mg·g⁻¹ (25 °C) for kenaf, flax, and ramie, respectively). The crucial adsorbent’s dosage was found to be 0.1 g per litre for all fibers, while the completed desorption study (eluant’s pH and reuse cycles) also confirmed the strong potential of these kinds of fibers as adsorbents. The latter may be attributed to the cellulosic content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wastewater Treatment Processes)

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20 pages, 2378 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Recent Advance on Draw Solutes Development in Forward Osmosis

by Qingwu Long^1,2,3,*, Yongmei Jia^2,4, Jinping Li³, Jiawei Yang³, Fangmei Liu³, Jian Zheng^1,2,3 and Biao Yu^2,4,*

¹ Key Laboratory of Clean Energy and Materials Chemistry of Guangdong Province College (Lingnan Normal University), Department of Education of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang 524048, China

² Resource and Chemical Engineering Technology Research Center of Western Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang 524048, China

³ School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, China

⁴ Institute of New Materials, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, China

Processes 2018, 6(9), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090165 - 13 Sep 2018

Cited by 73 | Viewed by 8132

Abstract

In recent years, membrane technologies have been developed to address water shortage and energy crisis. Forward osmosis (FO), as an emerging membrane-based water treatment technology, employs an extremely concentrated draw solution (DS) to draw water pass through the semi-permeable membrane from a feed [...] Read more.

In recent years, membrane technologies have been developed to address water shortage and energy crisis. Forward osmosis (FO), as an emerging membrane-based water treatment technology, employs an extremely concentrated draw solution (DS) to draw water pass through the semi-permeable membrane from a feed solution. DS as a critical material in FO process plays a key role in determining separation performance and energy cost. Most of existing DSs after FO still require a regeneration step making its return to initial state. Therefore, selecting suitable DS with low reverse solute, high flux, and easy regeneration is critical for improving FO energy efficiency. Numerous novel DSs with improved performance and lower regeneration cost have been developed. However, none reviews reported the categories of DS based on the energy used for recovery up to now, leading to the lack of enough awareness of energy consumption in DS regeneration. This review will give a comprehensive overview on the existing DSs based on the types of energy utilized for DS regeneration. DS categories based on different types of energy used for DS recovery, mainly including direct use based, chemical energy based, waste heat based, electric energy based, magnetic field energy based, and solar energy based are proposed. The respective benefits and detriments of the majority of DS are addressed respectively according to the current reported literatures. Finally, future directions of energy applied to DS recovery are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Membrane Technologies for Traditional Industrial Processes)

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20 pages, 415 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Population Balance Modeling and Opinion Dynamics—A Mutually Beneficial Liaison?

by Michael Kuhn

, Christoph Kirse

and Heiko Briesen^*

Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Chair of Process Systems Engineering, D-85354 Freising, Germany

Processes 2018, 6(9), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090164 - 11 Sep 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4928

Abstract

In this contribution, we aim to show that opinion dynamics and population balance modeling can benefit from an exchange of problems and methods. To support this claim, the Deffuant-Weisbuch model, a classical approach in opinion dynamics, is formulated as a population balance model. [...] Read more.

In this contribution, we aim to show that opinion dynamics and population balance modeling can benefit from an exchange of problems and methods. To support this claim, the Deffuant-Weisbuch model, a classical approach in opinion dynamics, is formulated as a population balance model. This new formulation is subsequently analyzed in terms of moment equations, and conservation of the first and second order moment is shown. Exemplary results obtained by our formulation are presented and agreement with the original model is found. In addition, the influence of the initial distribution is studied. Subsequently, the Deffuant-Weisbuch model is transferred to engineering and interpreted as mass transfer between liquid droplets which results in a more flexible formulation compared to alternatives from the literature. On the one hand, it is concluded that the transfer of opinion-dynamics problems to the domain of population balance modeling offers some interesting insights as well as stimulating challenges for the population-balance community. On the other hand, it is inferred that population-balance methods can contribute to the solution of problems in opinion dynamics. In a broad outlook, some further possibilities of how the two fields can possibly benefit from a close interaction are outlined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Population Balance Modeling)

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35 pages, 11010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integration of Process Modeling, Design, and Optimization with an Experimental Study of a Solar-Driven Humidification and Dehumidification Desalination System

by Mohammed Alghamdi^1,*, Faissal Abdel-Hady¹

, A. K. Mazher² and Abdulrahim Alzahrani¹

¹ Chemical and Materials Engineering Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

² Nuclear Engineering Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

Processes 2018, 6(9), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090163 - 7 Sep 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6135

Abstract

Solar energy is becoming a promising source of heat and power for electrical generation and desalination plants. In this work, an integrated study of modeling, optimization, and experimental work is undertaken for a parabolic trough concentrator combined with a humidification and dehumidification desalination [...] Read more.

Solar energy is becoming a promising source of heat and power for electrical generation and desalination plants. In this work, an integrated study of modeling, optimization, and experimental work is undertaken for a parabolic trough concentrator combined with a humidification and dehumidification desalination unit. The objective is to study the design performance and economic feasibility of a solar-driven desalination system. The design involves the circulation of a closed loop of synthetic blend motor oil in the concentrators and the desalination unit heat input section. The air circulation in the humidification and dehumidification unit operates in a closed loop, where the circulating water runs during the daytime and requires only makeup feed water to maintain the humidifier water level. Energy losses are reduced by minimizing the waste of treated streams. The process is environmentally friendly, since no significant chemical treatment is required. Design, construction, and operation are performed, and the system is analyzed at different circulating oil and air flow rates to obtain the optimum operating conditions. A case study in Saudi Arabia is carried out. The study reveals unit capability of producing 24.31 kg/day at a circulating air rate of 0.0631 kg/s and oil circulation rate of 0.0983 kg/s. The tradeoff between productivity, gain output ratio, and production cost revealed a unit cost of 12.54 US$/m³. The impact of the circulating water temperature has been tracked and shown to positively influence the process productivity. At a high productivity rate, the humidifier efficiency was found to be 69.1%, and the thermal efficiency was determined to be 82.94%. The efficiency of the parabolic trough collectors improved with the closed loop oil circulation, and the highest performance was achieved from noon until 14:00 p.m. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Design, Integration, and Intensification)

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27 pages, 2229 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Photocatalytic Membranes in Photocatalytic Membrane Reactors

by Pietro Argurio^1,*

, Enrica Fontananova^2,*, Raffaele Molinari¹

and Enrico Drioli^2,3

¹ Department of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 44/A, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy

² Institute on Membrane Technology (ITM), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Bucci Cubo 17C, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy

³ Center of Excellence in Desalination Technology, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80200, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

Processes 2018, 6(9), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090162 - 7 Sep 2018

Cited by 109 | Viewed by 12463

Abstract

The present work gives a critical overview of the recent progresses and new perspectives in the field of photocatalytic membranes (PMs) in photocatalytic membrane reactors (PMRs), thus highlighting the main advantages and the still existing limitations for large scale applications in the perspective [...] Read more.

The present work gives a critical overview of the recent progresses and new perspectives in the field of photocatalytic membranes (PMs) in photocatalytic membrane reactors (PMRs), thus highlighting the main advantages and the still existing limitations for large scale applications in the perspective of a sustainable growth. The classification of the PMRs is mainly based on the location of the photocatalyst with respect to the membranes and distinguished in: (i) PMRs with photocatalyst solubilized or suspended in solution and (ii) PMRs with photocatalyst immobilized in/on a membrane (i.e., a PM). The main factors affecting the two types of PMRs are deeply discussed. A multidisciplinary approach for the progress of research in PMs and PMRs is presented starting from selected case studies. A special attention is dedicated to PMRs employing dispersed TiO₂ confined in the reactor by a membrane for wastewater treatment. Moreover, the design and development of efficient photocatalytic membranes by the heterogenization of polyoxometalates in/on polymeric membranes is discussed for applications in environmental friendly advanced oxidation processes and fine chemical synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Membrane Technologies for Traditional Industrial Processes)

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10 pages, 1626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic and Model-Assisted Process Design for the Extraction and Purification of Artemisinin from Artemisia annua L.—Part I: Conceptual Process Design and Cost Estimation

by Maximilian Sixt, Axel Schmidt

, Fabian Mestmäcker, Maximilian Johannes Huter, Lukas Uhlenbrock and Jochen Strube^*

Institute for Separation and Process Technology, Clausthal University of Technology, 38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld, Germany

Processes 2018, 6(9), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090161 - 7 Sep 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7662

Abstract

The article summarizes a systematic process design for the extraction and purification of artemisinin from annual mugwort (Artemisia annua L.). Artemisinin serves as an anti-malaria drug, therefore, resource-efficient and economic processes for its production are needed. The process design was based on [...] Read more.

The article summarizes a systematic process design for the extraction and purification of artemisinin from annual mugwort (Artemisia annua L.). Artemisinin serves as an anti-malaria drug, therefore, resource-efficient and economic processes for its production are needed. The process design was based on lab-scale experiments and afterwards piloted on miniplant-scale at the institute. In this part of the article, a detailed economic feasibility studies including a reference process as a benchmark the lab-scale process and the pilot-scale process is given. Relevant differences between the different scales are discussed. The details of the respective unit operations (solid-liquid extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, chromatography and crystallization) are presented in dedicated articles. The study showed that even miniaturized lab-scale experiments are able to deliver data detailed enough for scale-up calculations on a theoretical basis. To our knowledge, a comparable systematic process design and piloting was never performed by academia before. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Process System Engineering for More Efficient Power and Chemicals Production)

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13 pages, 2131 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effect of the Length-to-Width Aspect Ratio of a Cuboid Packed-Bed Device on Efficiency of Chromatographic Separation

by Guoqiang Chen and Raja Ghosh^*

Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada

Processes 2018, 6(9), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090160 - 6 Sep 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6159

Abstract

In recent papers we have discussed the use of cuboid packed-bed devices as alternative to columns for chromatographic separations. These devices address some of the major flow distribution challenges faced by preparative columns used for process-scale purification of biologicals. Our previous studies showed [...] Read more.

In recent papers we have discussed the use of cuboid packed-bed devices as alternative to columns for chromatographic separations. These devices address some of the major flow distribution challenges faced by preparative columns used for process-scale purification of biologicals. Our previous studies showed that significant improvements in separation metrics such as the number of theoretical plates, peak shape, and peak resolution in multi-protein separation could be achieved. However, the length-to-width aspect ratio of a cuboid packed-bed device could potentially affect its performance. A systematic comparison of six cuboid packed-bed devices having different length-to-width aspect ratios showed that it had a significant effect on separation performance. The number of theoretical plates per meter in the best-performing cuboid packed-bed device was about 4.5 times higher than that in its equivalent commercial column. On the other hand, the corresponding number in the worst-performing cuboid-packed bed was lower than that in the column. A head-to-head comparison of the best-performing cuboid packed bed and its equivalent column was carried out. Performance metrics compared included the widths and dispersion indices of flow-through and eluted protein peaks. The optimized cuboid packed-bed device significantly outperformed its equivalent column with regards to all these attributes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers for the Fifth Year Anniversary of the Founding of Processes)

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17 pages, 21375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Seepage Control of the Tunnel Excavated in High-Pressure Water Condition Using Multiple Times Grouting Method

by Bin Gong^1,2,3

, Yujing Jiang^1,2,3

, Keisuke Okatsu³, Xuezhen Wu^4,*, Jin Teduka⁵ and Koichi Aoki⁵

¹ State Key Laboratory of Mining Disaster Prevention and Control, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

² Department of Mining Engineering, College of Mining and Safety Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

³ Department of Geotechinical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan

⁴ Department of Underground Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China

⁵ Kumagai Gumi Company Limited, Tokyo 162-0821, Japan

Processes 2018, 6(9), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090159 - 5 Sep 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 12942

Abstract

Groundwater can cause many hazardous problems when a tunnel is excavating. Seepage force acting on the support structure and the tunnel surface cannot be negligible. Under high groundwater table condition, the seepage situation becomes more complex and it is more difficult to control [...] Read more.

Groundwater can cause many hazardous problems when a tunnel is excavating. Seepage force acting on the support structure and the tunnel surface cannot be negligible. Under high groundwater table condition, the seepage situation becomes more complex and it is more difficult to control the leakage of groundwater to flow into a tunnel. In the paper, a multiple times grouting method is proposed, and the mechanical deformation behavior of surrounding rock is analyzed using the FLAC3D (Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua in 3 Dimensions) software according to the high groundwater table condition of the Hokusatsu tunnel. The results present that multiple times grouting can control leakage and the rock deformation well, compared with one-time grouting condition in rock breaking and high water pressure area. The seepage force decrease around the tunnel and the displacement is controlled effectively. The pore pressure reduces inside the grouting zone using a new kind of grouting material, which is high permeability ultramicro particle cement (average particle size 1.5 μm). In the test fieldwork, the grouting scheme reduces the maximum discharge from 300 t/h to 40 t/h, and there is not obvious deformation and abnormal stress in the tunnel. The multiple times grouting method proposed in this research is verified effectively and can supply a positive experience to on-site construction. Full article

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18 pages, 5752 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal Mixing Behavior of Conservative Solute Transport through 2D Self-Affine Fractures

by Zhi Dou^1,2,*

, Brent Sleep^2,*

, Pulin Mondal²

, Qiaona Guo¹, Jingou Wang¹ and Zhifang Zhou¹

¹ School of Earth Science and Engineering, Hohai University, 8 Fochengxi Rd., Nanjing 210098, China

² Department of Civil Engineering, University of Toronto, 35 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 1A4, Canada

Processes 2018, 6(9), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090158 - 5 Sep 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4150

Abstract

In this work, the influence of the Hurst exponent and Peclet number (Pe) on the temporal mixing behavior of a conservative solute in the self-affine fractures with variable-aperture fracture and constant-aperture distributions were investigated. The mixing was quantified by the scalar [...] Read more.

In this work, the influence of the Hurst exponent and Peclet number (Pe) on the temporal mixing behavior of a conservative solute in the self-affine fractures with variable-aperture fracture and constant-aperture distributions were investigated. The mixing was quantified by the scalar dissipation rate (SDR) in fractures. The investigation shows that the variable-aperture distribution leads to local fluctuation of the temporal evolution of the SDR, whereas the temporal evolution of the SDR in the constant-aperture fractures is smoothly decreasing as a power-law function of time. The Peclet number plays a dominant role in the temporal evolution of mixing in both variable-aperture and constant-aperture fractures. In the constant-aperture fracture, the influence of Hurst exponent on the temporal evolution of the SDR becomes negligible when the Peclet number is relatively small. The longitudinal SDR can be related to the global SDR in the constant-aperture fracture when the Peclet number is relatively small. As the Peclet number increases the longitudinal SDR overpredicts the global SDR. In the variable-aperture fractures, predicting the global SDR from the longitudinal SDR is inappropriate due to the non-monotonic increase of the longitudinal concentration second moment, which results in a physically meaningless SDR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fluid Flow in Fractured Porous Media)

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29 pages, 1367 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Mathematical Modeling of RBC Count Dynamics after Blood Loss

by Manuel Tetschke^1,*,†, Patrick Lilienthal^1,†, Torben Pottgiesser², Thomas Fischer³, Enrico Schalk³

and Sebastian Sager¹

¹ Institute for Mathematical Optimization, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany

² Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center Freiburg University, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany

³ Department of Hematology and Oncology, Medical Center, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Processes 2018, 6(9), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090157 - 5 Sep 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7385

Abstract

The regeneration of red blood cells (RBCs) after blood loss is an individual complex process. We present a novel simple compartment model which is able to capture the most important features and can be personalized using parameter estimation. We compare predictions of the [...] Read more.

The regeneration of red blood cells (RBCs) after blood loss is an individual complex process. We present a novel simple compartment model which is able to capture the most important features and can be personalized using parameter estimation. We compare predictions of the proposed and personalized model to a more sophisticated state-of-the-art model for erythropoiesis, and to clinical data from healthy subjects. We discuss the choice of model parameters with respect to identifiability. We give an outlook on how extensions of this novel mathematical model could have an important impact for personalized clinical decision support in the case of polycythemia vera (PV). PV is a slow-growing type of blood cancer, where especially the production of RBCs is increased. The principal treatment targeting the symptoms of PV is bloodletting (phlebotomy), at regular intervals that are based on personal experiences of the physicians. Model-based decision support might help to identify optimal and individualized phlebotomy schedules. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling & Control of Disease States)

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16 pages, 1444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mass Transfer in Multiphasic Gas/Liquid/Liquid Systems. K_La Determination Using the Effectiveness-Number of Transfer Unit Method

by Éric Dumont

UMR CNRS 6144 GEPEA, IMT Atlantique, Campus de Nantes, 4 rue Alfred Kastler, B.P. 20722, CEDEX 3 44307 Nantes, France

Processes 2018, 6(9), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090156 - 5 Sep 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5225

Abstract

The Effectiveness-Number of Transfer Unit method (ε-NTU method) was applied to determine the overall mass transfer coefficient, K_La, of operating gas-liquid absorbers treating Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). This method requires the knowledge of the operating conditions (gas flow rate, Q_G [...] Read more.

The Effectiveness-Number of Transfer Unit method (ε-NTU method) was applied to determine the overall mass transfer coefficient, K_La, of operating gas-liquid absorbers treating Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). This method requires the knowledge of the operating conditions (gas flow rate, Q_G; liquid flow rate, Q_L; scrubber volume V), the measurement of gaseous concentrations at the inlet, C_Gin, and at the outlet, C_Gout, of the contactor (in order to determine the effectiveness of the absorber ε) and the calculation of the Henry coefficient of the VOC between the gas and the liquid phases (H_VOC). Coupled with the “equivalent absorption capacity” concept, the ε-NTU method was used to determine K_La of absorbers contacting a gas and a mixture of water and a Non Aqueous Phase, successfully. The method, validated from literature data for configurations countercurrent scrubbers and stirred tank reactors, could be used to simply determine the overall mass transfer coefficient of systems for which the standard K_La determination methods still remain non-reliable or inaccurate (viscous solvents, mixture of immiscible liquids, fermentation broths…). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Processes and Systems)

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14 pages, 2032 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adsorptive Properties of Poly(1-methylpyrrol-2-ylsquaraine) Particles for the Removal of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals from Aqueous Solutions: Batch and Fixed-Bed Column Studies

by Augustine O. Ifelebuegu^1,*

, Habibath T. Salauh¹, Yihuai Zhang¹ and Daniel E. Lynch²

¹ School of Energy, Construction and Environment, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK

² Exilica Limited, The TechnoCentre, Coventry University Technology Park, Puma Way, Coventry CV1 2TT, UK

Processes 2018, 6(9), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090155 - 4 Sep 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4244

Abstract

The adsorptive properties of poly(1-methylpyrrol-2-ylsquaraine) (PMPS) particles were investigated in batch and column adsorption experiments as alternative adsorbent for the treatment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in water. The PMPS particles were synthesised by condensing 3,4-dihydroxycyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione (squaric acid) with 1-methylpyrrole in butanol. The results demonstrated [...] Read more.

The adsorptive properties of poly(1-methylpyrrol-2-ylsquaraine) (PMPS) particles were investigated in batch and column adsorption experiments as alternative adsorbent for the treatment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in water. The PMPS particles were synthesised by condensing 3,4-dihydroxycyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione (squaric acid) with 1-methylpyrrole in butanol. The results demonstrated that PMPS particles are effective in the removal of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in water with adsorption being more favourable at an acidic pH, and a superior sorption capacity being achieved at pH 4. The results also showed that the removal of EDCs by the PMPS particles was a complex process involving multiple rate-limiting steps and physicochemical interactions between the EDCs and the particles. Gibbs free energy of −8.32 kJ/mole and −6.6 kJ/mol, and enthalpies of 68 kJ/mol and 43 kJ/mol, were achieved for the adsorption E2 and EE2 respectively The removal efficiencies of the EDCs by PMPS particles were comparable to those of activated carbon, and hence can be applied as an alternative adsorbent in water treatment applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Design, Integration, and Intensification)

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25 pages, 2856 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Model Development and Validation of Fluid Bed Wet Granulation with Dry Binder Addition Using a Population Balance Model Methodology

by Shashank Venkat Muddu¹, Ashutosh Tamrakar¹, Preetanshu Pandey^2,† and Rohit Ramachandran^1,*

¹ 98 Brett Rd., Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA

² Drug Product Science and Technology, Bristol-Myers Squibb, New Brunswick, NJ 08854, USA

^† Currently at Kura Oncology Inc., Drug Product Development, 3033 Science Park Rd., San Diego, CA 92121, USA.

Processes 2018, 6(9), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090154 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5464

Abstract

An experimental study in industry was previously carried out on a batch fluid bed granulation system by varying the inlet fluidizing air temperature, binder liquid spray atomization pressure, the binder liquid spray rate and the disintegrant composition in the formulation. A population balance [...] Read more.

An experimental study in industry was previously carried out on a batch fluid bed granulation system by varying the inlet fluidizing air temperature, binder liquid spray atomization pressure, the binder liquid spray rate and the disintegrant composition in the formulation. A population balance model framework integrated with heat transfer and moisture balance due to liquid addition and evaporation was developed to simulate the fluid bed granulation system. The model predictions were compared with the industry data, namely, the particle size distributions (PSDs) and geometric mean diameters (GMDs) at various time-points in the granulation process. The model also predicted the trends for binder particle dissolution in the wetting liquid and the temperatures of the bed particles in the fluid bed granulator. Lastly, various process parameters were varied and extended beyond the region studied in the aforementioned experimental study to identify optimal regimes for granulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Modelling and Simulation)

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17 pages, 3406 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Exergy Analysis of the S-CO₂ Brayton Cycle Coupled with Bottoming Cycles

by Muhammad Ehtisham Siddiqui^1,*

, Aqeel Ahmad Taimoor² and Khalid H. Almitani¹

¹ Mechanical Engineering Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia

² Department of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering and Technology, Topi 23640, Pakistan

Processes 2018, 6(9), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090153 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7053

Abstract

Supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO₂) Brayton cycles (BC) are soon to be a competitive and environment friendly power generation technology. Progressive technological developments in turbo-machineries and heat exchangers have boosted the idea of using S-CO₂ in a closed-loop BC. This paper [...] Read more.

Supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO₂) Brayton cycles (BC) are soon to be a competitive and environment friendly power generation technology. Progressive technological developments in turbo-machineries and heat exchangers have boosted the idea of using S-CO₂ in a closed-loop BC. This paper describes and discusses energy and exergy analysis of S-CO₂ BC in cascade arrangement with a secondary cycle using CO₂, R134a, ammonia, or argon as working fluids. Pressure drop in the cycle is considered, and its effect on the overall performance is investigated. No specific heat source is considered, thus any heat source capable of providing temperature in the range from 500 °C to 850 °C can be utilized, such as solar energy, gas turbine exhaust, nuclear waste heat, etc. The commercial software ‘Aspen HYSYS version 9’ (Aspen Technology, Inc., Bedford, MA, USA) is used for simulations. Comparisons with the literature and simulation results are discussed first for the standalone S-CO₂ BC. Energy analysis is done for the combined cycle to inspect the parameters affecting the cycle performance. The second law efficiency is calculated, and exergy losses incurred in different components of the cycle are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Simulation of Energy Systems)

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13 pages, 12157 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shear-Flow Coupled Behavior of Artificial Joints with Sawtooth Asperities

by Cheng Zhao^1,2,3, Rui Zhang¹, Qingzhao Zhang^1,2,*, Zhenming Shi^1,2 and Songbo Yu^1,2

¹ Department of Geotechnical Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

² Key Laboratory of Geotechnical and Underground Engineering of Ministry of Education, Department of Geotechnical Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

³ College of Engineering, Tibet University, Lhasa 850011, China

Processes 2018, 6(9), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090152 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4449

Abstract

The coupling between hydraulic and mechanical processes in rock joints has significantly influenced the properties and applications of rock mass in many engineering fields. In this study, a series of regular shear tests and shear-flow coupled tests were conducted on artificial joints with [...] Read more.

The coupling between hydraulic and mechanical processes in rock joints has significantly influenced the properties and applications of rock mass in many engineering fields. In this study, a series of regular shear tests and shear-flow coupled tests were conducted on artificial joints with sawtooth asperities. Shear deformation, strength, and seepage properties were comprehensively analyzed to reveal the influence of joint roughness, normal stress, and seepage pressure on shear-flow coupled behavior. The results indicate that the shear failure mode, which can be divided into sliding and cutting, is dominated by joint roughness and affected by the other two factors under certain conditions. The seepage process makes a negative impact on shear strength as a result of the mutual reinforcing of offsetting and softening effects. The evolution of hydraulic aperture during the shear-flow coupled tests embodies a consistent pattern of four stages: shear contraction, shear dilation, re-contraction, and stability. The permeability of joint sample is considerably enlarged with the increase of joint roughness, but decreases with the addition of normal stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fluid Flow in Fractured Porous Media)

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12 pages, 2910 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Dopamine Incorporated Forward Osmosis Membranes with High Structural Stability and Chlorine Resistance

by Yi Wang^1,2, Zhendong Fang¹, Chaoxin Xie^1,*, Shuaifei Zhao³

, Derrick Ng² and Zongli Xie^2,*

¹ Water Industry and Environment Engineering Technology Research Centre, Chongqing 401311, China

² CSIRO Manufacturing, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia

³ Department of Environmental Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia

Processes 2018, 6(9), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090151 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4452

Abstract

The degradation and detachment of the polyamide (PA) layer for the conventional thin-film composite (TFC) membranes due to chemical disinfectants cleaning with chlorine and material difference of PA layer and substrate are two major bottlenecks of forward osmosis (FO) technology. In this study, [...] Read more.

The degradation and detachment of the polyamide (PA) layer for the conventional thin-film composite (TFC) membranes due to chemical disinfectants cleaning with chlorine and material difference of PA layer and substrate are two major bottlenecks of forward osmosis (FO) technology. In this study, a new type of FO membranes was first prepared by controlling dopamine (DA) as the sole amine in the aqueous phase and the reaction with trimesoyl chloride (TMC) as the acyl chloride during interfacial polymerization (IP) process. The influence of membrane synthesis parameters such as monomer concentration, pH of the aqueous phase, IP reaction time and IP temperature were systematically investigated. The optimized membrane showed both improved structure stability and chlorine resistance, more so than the conventional TFC membrane. In general, novel DA/TMC TFC membranes could be an effective strategy to synthesize high-performance FO membranes with excellent structural stability and chlorine resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Membrane Technologies for Traditional Industrial Processes)

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18 pages, 5367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Overlying Strata Movement and Disaster-Causing Effects of Coal Mining Face under the Action of Hard Thick Magmatic Rock

by Quanlin Wu^1,†, Quansen Wu^1,2,*,†, Yanchao Xue^2,*, Peng Kong² and Bin Gong³

¹ Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jining University, Qufu 273100, China

² State Key Laboratory of Mining Disaster Prevention and Control Co-Founded by Shandong Province and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

³ Graduate School of Engineering, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Processes 2018, 6(9), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090150 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4770

Abstract

When the hard and thick key strata are located above the working face, the bed separation structure is easy to be formed after mining because of the high strength and integrity of the hard and thick key strata and the initial breaking step [...] Read more.

When the hard and thick key strata are located above the working face, the bed separation structure is easy to be formed after mining because of the high strength and integrity of the hard and thick key strata and the initial breaking step is large. After the hard, thick strata are broken, the overburden will be largely collapsed and unstable in a large area and the dynamic disaster is easily induced. In this study, considering the fundamental deformation and failure effect of coal seam, the development law of the bed separation and the fractures under hard and thick magmatic rocks and the mechanism of breaking induced disaster of hard and thick magmatic rocks are studied by similar simulation tests. The results of the study are as follows: (1) The similar material ratio of coal seam is obtained by low-strength orthogonal ratio test of similar materials of coal seam, that is, cement:sand:water:activated carbon:coal = 6:6:7:1.1:79.9. (2) The magmatic rocks play a role in shielding the development of the bed separation, which makes the bed separation beneath the magmatic rock in an unclosed state for a long time, providing space for the accumulation of gas and water. (3) The distribution pattern of the fracture zone shows different shapes as the advancing of working face and the fracture zone width of the rear of working face coal wall is larger than that of the front of the open-off. (4) The breaking of magmatic rocks will press the gas and water accumulated in the bed separation space below to rush towards the working face along the fracture zone at both ends of the goaf. The above results are verified through the drainage borehole gas jet accident in the Yangliu coal mine. The research results are of great significance for revealing the occurrence process of dynamic disasters and adopting scientific and reasonable preventive measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fluid Flow in Fractured Porous Media)

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14 pages, 3523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Estimates of Nonlinear Flow Characteristics of Deformable Rough-Walled Rock Fractures with Various Lithologies

by Qian Yin, Lixin He

, Hongwen Jing^* and Dong Zhu

State Key Laboratory for Geomechanics and Deep Underground Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China

Processes 2018, 6(9), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090149 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4336

Abstract

The existence of surface roughness, various contact conditions and the occurrence of flow nonlinearity make the flow process in natural rock fractures more complicated. To evaluate the fluid flow regimes in deformable rough-walled rock fractures, a great many hydromechanical tests were conducted on [...] Read more.

The existence of surface roughness, various contact conditions and the occurrence of flow nonlinearity make the flow process in natural rock fractures more complicated. To evaluate the fluid flow regimes in deformable rough-walled rock fractures, a great many hydromechanical tests were conducted on nine real fractures artificially produced from a wide range of lithological diversity. For fractures with a certain JRC (fracture roughness coefficient) value, the confining pressure varied from 5 to 20 MPa, and the hydraulic pressure was increased from 0.4 to 6.0 MPa. The experimental results display that (i) regression analyses of the raw experimental data indicate that the Forchheimer’s law provides a perfect description for flow process through the fractures. The coefficients of viscous and inertial pressure drops undergo a growth of 2–3 orders of magnitude with an increase in the confining pressure; (ii) the hydraulic aperture decreases by approximately 87.41–92.81% as the confining pressure increases, and experiences a decrease of 1.52–2.96 times with the JRC values. A power-law function is used to evaluate the hydraulic aperture as a function of the nonlinear coefficient. The nonlinear coefficient decreases with increasing hydraulic aperture; (iii) using Forchheimer equation, the critical Reynolds number Re_c was successfully assessed by choosing E percentage (generally 10%) of the nonlinear effect as the critical value between the linear and nonlinear flow regimes. The obtained Re_c steadily increases with increasing confining pressure, while it diminishes with the JRC values; and (v) the transmissivity decreases as the pressure gradient increases. Additionally, transmissivity also exhibits a decreasing trend with both the confining pressures and JRC values due to fracture closure and tortuous and channeling flow paths in rougher fractures, and the rate of its decrease for a smaller confining pressure (5, 10 MPa) is more significant. Full article

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15 pages, 1974 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

On-Line Optimal Input Design Increases the Efficiency and Accuracy of the Modelling of an Inducible Synthetic Promoter

by Lucia Bandiera^1,2, Zhaozheng Hou¹, Varun B. Kothamachu¹, Eva Balsa-Canto³, Peter S. Swain² and Filippo Menolascina^1,2,*

¹ School of Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EG9 3DW, UK

² Synthsys—Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK

³ (Bio)Process Engineering Group, IIM-CSIC Spanish Reasearch Council, 36208 Vigo, Spain

Processes 2018, 6(9), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090148 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7749

Abstract

Synthetic biology seeks to design biological parts and circuits that implement new functions in cells. Major accomplishments have been reported in this field, yet predicting a priori the in vivo behaviour of synthetic gene circuits is major a challenge. Mathematical models offer a [...] Read more.

Synthetic biology seeks to design biological parts and circuits that implement new functions in cells. Major accomplishments have been reported in this field, yet predicting a priori the in vivo behaviour of synthetic gene circuits is major a challenge. Mathematical models offer a means to address this bottleneck. However, in biology, modelling is perceived as an expensive, time-consuming task. Indeed, the quality of predictions depends on the accuracy of parameters, which are traditionally inferred from poorly informative data. How much can parameter accuracy be improved by using model-based optimal experimental design (MBOED)? To tackle this question, we considered an inducible promoter in the yeast S. cerevisiae. Using in vivo data, we re-fit a dynamic model for this component and then compared the performance of standard (e.g., step inputs) and optimally designed experiments for parameter inference. We found that MBOED improves the quality of model calibration by ∼60%. Results further improve up to

84 %

when considering on-line optimal experimental design (OED). Our in silico results suggest that MBOED provides a significant advantage in the identification of models of biological parts and should thus be integrated into their characterisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Synthetic Biology)

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19 pages, 5500 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Diffusion in Nanoporous Materials: Novel Insights by Combining MAS and PFG NMR

by Jörg Kärger^*

, Dieter Freude

and Jürgen Haase

Fakultät für Physik und Geowissenschaften, Universität Leipzig, Linnéstraße 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany

Processes 2018, 6(9), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090147 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 7790

Abstract

Pulsed field gradient (PFG) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) allows recording of molecular diffusion paths (notably, the probability distribution of molecular displacements over typically micrometers, covered during an observation time of typically milliseconds) and has thus proven to serve as a most versatile means [...] Read more.

Pulsed field gradient (PFG) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) allows recording of molecular diffusion paths (notably, the probability distribution of molecular displacements over typically micrometers, covered during an observation time of typically milliseconds) and has thus proven to serve as a most versatile means for the in-depth study of mass transfer in complex materials. This is particularly true with nanoporous host materials, where PFG NMR enabled the first direct measurement of intracrystalline diffusivities of guest molecules. Spatial resolution, i.e., the minimum diffusion path length experimentally observable, is limited by the time interval over which the pulsed field gradients may be applied. In “conventional” PFG NMR measurements, this time interval is determined by a characteristic quantity of the host-guest system under study, the so-called transverse nuclear magnetic relaxation time. This leads, notably when considering systems with low molecular mobilities, to severe restrictions in the applicability of PFG NMR. These restrictions may partially be released by performing PFG NMR measurements in combination with “magic-angle spinning” (MAS) of the NMR sample tube. The present review introduces the fundamentals of this technique and illustrates, via a number of recent cases, the gain in information thus attainable. Examples include diffusion measurements with nanoporous host-guest systems of low intrinsic mobility and selective diffusion measurement in multicomponent systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport of Fluids in Nanoporous Materials)

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20 pages, 5465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Numerical Study of Stress Distribution and Fracture Development above a Protective Coal Seam in Longwall Mining

by Chunlei Zhang^1,2,3,*, Lei Yu¹, Ruimin Feng⁴, Yong Zhang² and Guojun Zhang²

¹ International Engineering Company of China Coal Technology and Engineering Group, Beijing 100013, China

² College of Resources and Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China

³ Department of Mining and Mineral Resources Engineering, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA

⁴ Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada

Processes 2018, 6(9), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090146 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5759

Abstract

Coal and gas outbursts are serious safety concerns in the Chinese coal industry. Mining of the upper or lower protective coal seams has been widely used to minimize this problem. This paper presents new findings from longwall mining-induced fractures, stress distribution changes in [...] Read more.

Coal and gas outbursts are serious safety concerns in the Chinese coal industry. Mining of the upper or lower protective coal seams has been widely used to minimize this problem. This paper presents new findings from longwall mining-induced fractures, stress distribution changes in roof strata, strata movement and gas flow dynamics after the lower protective coal seam is extracted in a deep underground coal mine in Jincheng, China. Two Flac^3D models with varying gob loading characteristics as a function of face advance were analyzed to assess the effect of gob behavior on stress relief in the protected coal seam. The gob behavior in the models is incorporated by applying variable force to the floor and roof behind the longwall face to simulate gob loading characteristics in the field. The influence of mining height on the stress-relief in protected coal seam is also incorporated. The stress relief coefficient and relief angle were introduced as two essential parameters to evaluate the stress relief effect in different regions of protected coal seam. The results showed that the rock mass above the protective coal seam can be divided into five zones in the horizontal direction, i.e. pre-mining zone, compression zone, expansion zone, recovery zone and re-compacted zone. The volume expansion or the dilation zone with high gas concentration is the best location to drill boreholes for gas drainage in both the protected coal seam and the protective coal seam. The research results are helpful to understand the gas flow mechanism around the coal seam and guide industry people to optimize borehole layouts in order to eliminate the coal and gas outburst hazard. The gas drainage programs are provided in the final section. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fluid Flow in Fractured Porous Media)

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36 pages, 13561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Test Bed of a Low-Power Digital Excitation System for Industry 4.0

by Jun-Ho Huh¹

and Hoon-Gi Lee^2,3,*

¹ Department of Software, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan 46252, Korea

² System Development Division of E2S, Seoul 05307, Korea

³ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Korea

Processes 2018, 6(9), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090145 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6042

Abstract

Since modeling and simulation are the two most effective tools that can be used in the design or analysis process, they play a vital role in developing such system. In many cases, they are the only possible means of making a safe engineering [...] Read more.

Since modeling and simulation are the two most effective tools that can be used in the design or analysis process, they play a vital role in developing such system. In many cases, they are the only possible means of making a safe engineering decision for a new concept of process for a large-scale system. Elsewhere, they are used as a critical element in the analysis of energy systems or to suggest a method of developing a novel and effective energy system model. Thus, in this study, simulations and test bed experiment were carried out to assess a low-power digital excitation system in order to validate its effectiveness. The excitation systems currently used by most of the power stations in the Republic of Korea were installed during the 1970s or 1980s. Unfortunately, it is difficult to seek technical assistance for them as they depend on foreign technologies, requiring a large sum to be paid when requesting one or more engineers to be dispatched. As such, technical updates have always been made by foreign companies, since it is not easy to make modifications to the system without the help of the original system developer. The technology developed in this study was designed to address such problem. The inability to conduct a test for an actual system can be solved by using a power system analysis program to analyze the characteristics of the controller. The study confirmed the system’s effectiveness, and the Test Bed was proven to be flexible and adequate for the experiment. The proposed excitation system is expected to increase the stability and economic effect of the system by optimizing existing systems. In the future, the authors plan to focus on student education by establishing an education system that allows students to learn about the digital excitation system and its simulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Industry 4.0: Application Research to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs))

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14 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Challenges in Nanofluidics—Beyond Navier–Stokes at the Molecular Scale

by Peter J. Daivis^1,*,†

and Billy D. Todd^2,*,†

¹ School of Science and Centre for Molecular and Nanoscale Physics, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia

² Department of Mathematics, School of Science, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, PO Box 218, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia

^† Both authors contributed to this work, with P.J.D. taking the leading role in writing the manuscript.

Processes 2018, 6(9), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090144 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5506

Abstract

The fluid dynamics of macroscopic and microscopic systems is well developed and has been extensively validated. Its extraordinary success makes it tempting to apply Navier–Stokes fluid dynamics without modification to systems of ever decreasing dimensions as studies of nanofluidics become more prevalent. However, [...] Read more.

The fluid dynamics of macroscopic and microscopic systems is well developed and has been extensively validated. Its extraordinary success makes it tempting to apply Navier–Stokes fluid dynamics without modification to systems of ever decreasing dimensions as studies of nanofluidics become more prevalent. However, this can result in serious error. In this paper, we discuss several ways in which nanoconfined fluid flow differs from macroscopic flow. We give particular attention to several topics that have recently received attention in the literature: slip, spin angular momentum coupling, nonlocal stress response and density inhomogeneity. In principle, all of these effects can now be accurately modelled using validated theories. Although the basic principles are now fairly well understood, much work remains to be done in their application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport of Fluids in Nanoporous Materials)

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18 pages, 6536 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supported Ionic Liquid Membranes for Separation of Lignin Aqueous Solutions

by Ricardo Abejón^*

, Javier Rabadán, Silvia Lanza, Azucena Abejón, Aurora Garea

and Angel Irabien

Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department, University of Cantabria. Avda. Los Castros s/n, 39005 Santander, Spain

Processes 2018, 6(9), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr6090143 - 1 Sep 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5313

Abstract

Lignin valorization is a key aspect to design sustainable management systems for lignocellulosic biomass. The successful implementation of bio-refineries requires high value added applications for the chemicals derived from lignin. Without effective separation processes, the achievement of this purpose is difficult. Supported ionic [...] Read more.

Lignin valorization is a key aspect to design sustainable management systems for lignocellulosic biomass. The successful implementation of bio-refineries requires high value added applications for the chemicals derived from lignin. Without effective separation processes, the achievement of this purpose is difficult. Supported ionic liquid membranes can play a relevant role in the separation and purification of lignocellulosic components. This work investigated different supported ionic liquid membranes for selective transport of two different types of technical lignins (Kraft lignin and lignosulphonate) and monosaccharides (xylose and glucose) in aqueous solution. Although five different membrane supports and nine ionic liquids were tested, only the system composed by [BMIM][DBP] as an ionic liquid and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a membrane support allowed the selective transport of the tested solutes. The results obtained with this selective membrane demonstrated that lignins were more slowly transferred from the feed compartment to the stripping compartment through the membrane than the monosaccharides. A model was proposed to calculate the effective mass transfer constants of the solutes through the membrane (values in the range 0.5–2.0 × 10⁻³ m/h). Nevertheless, the stability of this identified selective membrane and its potential to be implemented in effective separation processes must be further analyzed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Membrane Technologies for Traditional Industrial Processes)

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Processes, Volume 6, Issue 9 (September 2018) – 38 articles

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