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Open AccessEditorial

Preface of II International Meeting of Molecules4Life

by Miguel Ribeiro and Marco S. Lucas

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133007 - 23 Dec 2025

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Abstract

The II International Meeting of Molecules4Life (M4L) was held from 10 to 12 September 2025 at the School of Life Sciences and Environment (ECVA), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), Vila Real, Portugal [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

1 pages, 123 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Miguel Ribeiro and Marco S. Lucas

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133008 - 23 Dec 2025

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In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the Volume Editors of the proceedings would like to certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review by the designated expert referees and were administered by the [...] Read more.

In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the Volume Editors of the proceedings would like to certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review by the designated expert referees and were administered by the Volume Editors in strict accordance with the peer review policies established for this conference [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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4 pages, 652 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

From CO₂ to Methane: A Thermodynamic Study of the Sabatier Reaction for Clean Energy Applications

by Carlos Andrade, Marisa Martins and Amadeu Borges

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133001 - 8 Dec 2025

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Abstract

This work presents a numerical analysis of the steady-state thermodynamic equilibrium of the CO₂ methanation reaction, based on solving mass balance equations using equilibrium constants. It evaluates how temperature, pressure, and the H₂/CO₂ ratio affect methane yield and by-product [...] Read more.

This work presents a numerical analysis of the steady-state thermodynamic equilibrium of the CO₂ methanation reaction, based on solving mass balance equations using equilibrium constants. It evaluates how temperature, pressure, and the H₂/CO₂ ratio affect methane yield and by-product formation. The results show that temperatures below 450 °C, high pressures, and a stoichiometric H₂/CO₂ ratio maximize methane production and CO₂ conversion. For instance, at 400 °C and 10 bar, the equilibrium molar fractions are approximately 0.30 for CH₄, 0.00021 for CO, and 0.020 for CO₂. The process is particularly promising when renewable hydrogen is used, offering a viable pathway for CO₂ valorization. The methane produced can be integrated into existing natural gas networks, supporting the energy transition and helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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4 pages, 184 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Pyrolysis of Sewage Sludge: Unlocking the Hidden Potential for Valorization and Carbon Sequestration

by Miguel Oliveira, Vitor Valente and Amadeu Borges

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133002 - 8 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Sewage sludge management remains a critical environmental and economic challenge due to high volumes, transport requirements, and landfill restrictions. Pyrolysis offers a promising alternative by reducing sludge mass and producing biochar with potential for soil fertility enhancement and long-term carbon sequestration. This study [...] Read more.

Sewage sludge management remains a critical environmental and economic challenge due to high volumes, transport requirements, and landfill restrictions. Pyrolysis offers a promising alternative by reducing sludge mass and producing biochar with potential for soil fertility enhancement and long-term carbon sequestration. This study integrates physicochemical characterization of Portuguese wastewater treatment plant sludges with experimental drying data and literature-based pyrolysis yields to estimate mass reduction, energy requirements, and carbon retention. A simplified life cycle comparison highlights potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, human toxicity, and land use, while also suggesting significant economic savings from avoided transport and landfill disposal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

4 pages, 721 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Numerical Analysis of PEMFCs as a Clean Energy Solution for Mobility

by Marisa Martins, Carlos Andrade and Amadeu D. S. Borges

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133003 - 8 Dec 2025

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Abstract

This study investigates the potential of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) for application in the transport sector through a numerical modelling approach, evaluating their performance and alignment with the European Union’s climate objectives. The model’s performance was assessed by calculating the percentage [...] Read more.

This study investigates the potential of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) for application in the transport sector through a numerical modelling approach, evaluating their performance and alignment with the European Union’s climate objectives. The model’s performance was assessed by calculating the percentage error across the operating range, that were found to range from a minimum of 0.045% to a maximum of 2.913% across current densities up to 0.80 A/cm². The objective is to assess the viability of PEMFCs as a clean alternative to internal combustion engines and to identify the key technical and policy challenges hindering their wider adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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4 pages, 1044 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Simulation of New Renewable Gas Mixtures for Injection into Natural Gas Networks

by Vitor Valente, Miguel Oliveira and Amadeu Borges

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133004 - 8 Dec 2025

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Abstract

This study presents a computational tool for analyzing gas mixtures resulting from the integration of biomethane and hydrogen into natural gas networks. It calculates key properties, such as relative density, higher heating value and Wobbe index, based on composition, temperature and pressure, using [...] Read more.

This study presents a computational tool for analyzing gas mixtures resulting from the integration of biomethane and hydrogen into natural gas networks. It calculates key properties, such as relative density, higher heating value and Wobbe index, based on composition, temperature and pressure, using the van der Waals equation to model real gas behavior. The tool also offers interactive 3D visualizations to explore how these properties vary under different conditions. With prediction errors below 0.5% at 20 atm, it provides a reliable basis for assessing technical feasibility, regulatory compliance and energy efficiency in the integration of alternative gases into existing networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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4 pages, 701 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Characterization of Pd Nanocomposites for the Oxygen-Reduction Reaction

by Ilias Ouanzi and Maria C. Oliveira

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133005 - 10 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Carbon nanocomposites are essential supports in fuel cell catalysts, ensuring dispersion, anchoring, and reactant access. Here, we demonstrated an in situ synthesis of Pd nanoparticles using electrogenerated hydrophilic carbon (EHC) matrix that acts simultaneously as Pd support and reducing agent. To further enhance [...] Read more.

Carbon nanocomposites are essential supports in fuel cell catalysts, ensuring dispersion, anchoring, and reactant access. Here, we demonstrated an in situ synthesis of Pd nanoparticles using electrogenerated hydrophilic carbon (EHC) matrix that acts simultaneously as Pd support and reducing agent. To further enhance oxygen availability, a second EHC form with high oxygen storage capacity was integrated. The resulting material was characterized in terms of its electrochemical behaviour and long-term stability and compared with a nanocomposite without the O₂-storing component. A time-dependent decline in electrolyte access to Pd sites was observed in both, but substantially mitigated at long-term by the oxygen-storing component. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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5 pages, 180 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhancing the Nutritional Profile of Acheta domesticus with DHA-Rich Microalgae Supplementation

by Joana Ferreira, Patrícia Henriques, Paulo Bispo, Paula Ruivo, Nair Cunha, Vanda Andrade, Narcisa Bandarra and Gabriela Basto de Lima

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133006 - 19 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Growing pressure to build sustainable food systems is steering interest toward edible insects as efficient, nutrient-rich alternatives. In this work, it was evaluated whether adding DHA extracted from microalgal biomass to the standard diet of Acheta domesticus can enrich the crickets’ lipid quality. [...] Read more.

Growing pressure to build sustainable food systems is steering interest toward edible insects as efficient, nutrient-rich alternatives. In this work, it was evaluated whether adding DHA extracted from microalgal biomass to the standard diet of Acheta domesticus can enrich the crickets’ lipid quality. Diets containing 0, 5, and 10% DHA were fed under controlled rearing. Subadult crickets were milled and analyzed. Compared with controls, supplemented groups showed higher total lipids and a healthier fatty-acid profile, with clear increases in omega-3 and the appearance of DHA. This minor dietary change is simple, scalable, and compatible with low-impact rearing, supporting the development of higher-value insect-based ingredients for human nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

5 pages, 195 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Systematic Literature Review of Waste Polypropylene Reinforced with Glass Fiber: Mechanical and Thermal Properties in the Context of Sustainability

by Atta Khan, Muhammad Khubaib, Fábio Pereira, Verónica de Zea Bermudez, Armindo Fernandes and Ana Briga-Sá

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133009 - 30 Mar 2026

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Abstract

Recycled polypropylene reinforced with glass fiber (rPP-GF) represents a promising sustainable material alternative addressing global imperatives for environmentally responsible manufacturing. This systematic literature review examines the mechanical, thermal, and sustainability performance of rPP-GF composites based on 66 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and [...] Read more.

Recycled polypropylene reinforced with glass fiber (rPP-GF) represents a promising sustainable material alternative addressing global imperatives for environmentally responsible manufacturing. This systematic literature review examines the mechanical, thermal, and sustainability performance of rPP-GF composites based on 66 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. The evidence demonstrates that glass fiber reinforcement significantly enhances mechanical and thermal performance. Compared to virgin counterparts, rPP-GF composites reduce environmental impact. However, technical challenges, including fiber attrition during reprocessing and a lack of standardized testing protocols, remain significant barriers. Future research should prioritize unified testing frameworks, hybrid filler systems, and advanced recycling technologies for enhanced circular economy applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

4 pages, 787 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sol–Gel Derived Organic/Inorganic Hybrids Doped with a Mixture of Sodium Salt and a Commercial Ionic Liquid

by André Pinto and Mariana Fernandes

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133010 - 31 Mar 2026

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Abstract

The sol–gel method was employed to prepare organic–inorganic hybrid materials capable of accommodating large amounts of a sodium salt and a commercial ionic liquid. The resulting samples, obtained as thin and transparent films, were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and [...] Read more.

The sol–gel method was employed to prepare organic–inorganic hybrid materials capable of accommodating large amounts of a sodium salt and a commercial ionic liquid. The resulting samples, obtained as thin and transparent films, were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The samples exhibit thermal stability and are essentially amorphous, which encourages further investigation. Interest in sodium arises from the fundamental similarities between the electrochemistry of sodium and lithium batteries, as well as the analogous physicochemical properties shared by these two elements. Sodium-ion batteries have thus emerged as highly promising energy storage systems, particularly well-suited for stationary applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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5 pages, 627 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bio-Based Antimicrobial Plasterboard Composites Using Natural Silkworm Cocoon Fibers: A Multi-Property Comparative Study

by Joana Ribeiro, Alexandre Jerónimo, Verónica de Zea Bermudez and Ana Briga-Sá

Proceedings 2025, 133(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025133011 - 1 Apr 2026

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Abstract

This study introduces a sustainable plasterboard reinforced with natural silkworm cocoon fibers, known for their intrinsic antimicrobial properties. The composite was evaluated for flexural strength, thermal performance, fire resistance, and biological susceptibility. While a slight decrease in flexural strength was observed, the composite [...] Read more.

This study introduces a sustainable plasterboard reinforced with natural silkworm cocoon fibers, known for their intrinsic antimicrobial properties. The composite was evaluated for flexural strength, thermal performance, fire resistance, and biological susceptibility. While a slight decrease in flexural strength was observed, the composite exhibited enhanced fire performance, improved thermal insulation, and substantially reduced fungal growth after 30 days. These findings suggest that silk-based plasterboards may offer a viable alternative to conventional materials, thereby contributing to enhanced indoor hygiene and sustainability, particularly in healthcare environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of II International Meeting Molecules 4 Life)

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