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Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in...
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Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes

A special issue of Eng (ISSN 2673-4117). This special issue belongs to the section "Chemical, Civil and Environmental Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2026) | Viewed by 9776

Editor

Prof. Dr. Antonio Gil Bravo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
INAMAT2-Departamento de Ciencias, Edificio de los Acebos, Universidad Pública de Navarra, Campus de Arrosadía, 31006 Pamplona, Spain
Interests: preparation, characterization and catalytic activity of metal-supported catalysts; surface properties of solids; pollutants adsorption; environmental management; industrial waste valorization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, the environmental impact of industrial processes has come under increasing scrutiny. With the global focus on sustainability and the need to reduce our carbon footprint, industries are being challenged to minimize the emission of pollutants and purify the effluents produced during manufacturing. To meet these demands, researchers and industry professionals are continuously exploring innovative solutions and technologies that can help transform traditional industrial processes into more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives.

This Special Issue aims to showcase the latest advancements and case studies in emerging technologies for the treatment and reduction of pollutants in industrial processes. We invite contributions that highlight examples of industrial processes that have been adapted to meet current environmental requirements, including sustainable and green industrial processes, alternative processes, and circular economy practices.

Our focus will be on technologies and strategies that minimize polluting emissions, enhance the purification of pollutants, and promote the use of more sustainable raw materials. Contributions may cover a range of topics, including, but not limited to, the following: novel waste treatment technologies, advanced oxidation processes, membrane separation techniques, bio-based materials, and sustainable energy solutions.

By presenting these cutting-edge developments, we aim to inspire further innovation and collaboration in the field, ultimately contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industrial sector. Thank you for your consideration.

Prof. Dr. Antonio Gil Bravo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Eng is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • sustainable industrial processes
  • green industrial processes
  • alternative processes
  • circular Economy
  • minimization of polluting emissions
  • purification of polluting emissions

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

16 pages, 6026 KB  
Article
Multiscale Correlation of Coal Mine Dust Physicochemical Properties and Wettability in Fully Mechanized Mining Faces
by Jingdong Wang, Longhao Fan, Sichen Gao, Bei Sun and Ying An
Eng 2026, 7(5), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7050246 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 358
Abstract
The wettability of dust is fundamental to its dispersion and control in mining operations. Current research, however, focuses largely on isolated properties, leaving the synergistic mechanisms of multi-scale factors-such as particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry-poorly understood. This study integrates field measurements, laboratory [...] Read more.
The wettability of dust is fundamental to its dispersion and control in mining operations. Current research, however, focuses largely on isolated properties, leaving the synergistic mechanisms of multi-scale factors-such as particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry-poorly understood. This study integrates field measurements, laboratory characterization, and theoretical analysis to investigate the spatial distribution and wetting behavior of dust in fully mechanized mining faces. The results show that respirable dust preferentially accumulated in mechanically disturbed and personnel-exposure zones. At the shearer operator’s station, respirable dust concentrations reached 328.6 mg/m3 in Mine A and 278.4 mg/m3 in Mine B, which were 1.8 and 1.6 times higher than those at the shearer cutting point, respectively. Mine A dust also showed poorer wettability, with a higher water contact angle of 148.9° ± 2.1° compared with 134.7° ± 1.8° for Mine B, mainly due to its larger agglomerates, rougher surface morphology, and more hydrophobic surface chemistry. Accordingly, targeted development pathways for spray and foam technologies are outlined, including compound wetting agents and micro-nano enhanced foaming systems. The integrated multi-scale framework linking concentration, particle size, morphology, surface chemistry, and wettability provide an application-oriented basis for understanding coal mine dust behavior and for supporting more precise and intelligent dust-control strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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22 pages, 2142 KB  
Article
Densification of Expanded Polystyrene Waste Using Organic Solvents, a Sustainable Recycling Strategy
by Romeo Garcia-Cruz, David Reyes-Gonzalez, Guadalupe Rodriguez-Martinez, Gustavo Martínez-Castellanos, Rodrigo Vivar-Ocampo and David Arroyo-Acosta
Eng 2026, 7(4), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7040165 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1432
Abstract
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a material with a wide range of applications in different sectors of everyday life and in industry. EPS is a major environmental challenge, as the properties that give it versatility of use make it a difficult waste to manage. [...] Read more.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a material with a wide range of applications in different sectors of everyday life and in industry. EPS is a major environmental challenge, as the properties that give it versatility of use make it a difficult waste to manage. Consequently, this type of plastic waste has a low recycling rate, which leads to the need to develop efficient solutions for its management and use postconsumer. Herein presents an assessment of the densification capacity of EPS waste using organic solvents as a sustainable strategy for the recovery of such waste. A mixed factorial experiment design was carried out in which the type of solvent, the revolutions per minute for agitation in the densification process and the concentration of the solvent were analyzed as incidence factors. A coefficient determination of 93.12% was obtained, demonstrating that the model fits normally. The results show that xylene and thinner have the best performance compared to other solvents used in the experiments. This study contributes to the optimization of solvent-based EPS densification processes by statistically identifying which ones are most effective under low-cost and low-energy consumption conditions, providing a scalable and replicable strategy, especially in regions where recycling infrastructure is limited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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23 pages, 528 KB  
Article
Integrated Environmental Risk Assessment and Performance Evaluation of Asphalt Plants Incorporating Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Under the ISO 14001 Framework
by Mirel Glevitzky, Paul Mucea-Ștef, Mihai-Teopent Corcheş, Mircea Sălcudean, Elena Marica, Sorina Gabriela Șerban and Maria Popa
Eng 2026, 7(2), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7020095 - 18 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1248
Abstract
This study presents an integrated approach combining environmental risk assessment and experimental performance evaluation for asphalt production plants incorporating reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). Unlike previous studies, which focus separately on mechanical performance or environmental impact, our methodology applies a semi-quantitative Environmental Impact Score [...] Read more.
This study presents an integrated approach combining environmental risk assessment and experimental performance evaluation for asphalt production plants incorporating reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). Unlike previous studies, which focus separately on mechanical performance or environmental impact, our methodology applies a semi-quantitative Environmental Impact Score (EIS), calculated using legal requirements (L), pollutant characteristics (P), and control measure effectiveness (C). The EIS framework is based on ISO 14001 and ISO 31000 principles. The results indicate that significant impacts are mainly associated with high-temperature processes and hazardous materials, while mitigation measures effectively reduce residual risks. The experimental investigation compared conventional asphalt mixtures with mixtures containing 9.71% RAP across different bitumen contents. Key quantitative findings include a 3-point increase in EIS for RAP mixtures due to higher volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and a 3–8% improvement in Marshall stability and stiffness at lower bitumen contents (3.8–4.2%). The results demonstrate that RAP can enhance mechanical performance while supporting circular economy objectives, provided that environmental risks are actively managed through process control and mitigation measures. This work highlights the novel integration of quantitative environmental scoring with laboratory validation, providing a reproducible framework for sustainable and risk-informed asphalt production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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17 pages, 985 KB  
Article
Depositing Cs-Co3O4 on Ceramic Foam Fosters Industrial N2O Decomposition Catalysis
by Anna Klegová, Kateřina Pacultová, Tomáš Kiška, Kateřina Karásková, Tereza Bílková and Lucie Obalová
Eng 2026, 7(2), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7020086 - 13 Feb 2026
Viewed by 699
Abstract
N2O emissions exacerbate the greenhouse effect, urgently demanding advances in abatement technologies. Catalytic decomposition of N2O over cobalt-based oxides with alkali metal promoters remains challenging because these catalysts are used in pelletized form, limiting their activity to a narrow [...] Read more.
N2O emissions exacerbate the greenhouse effect, urgently demanding advances in abatement technologies. Catalytic decomposition of N2O over cobalt-based oxides with alkali metal promoters remains challenging because these catalysts are used in pelletized form, limiting their activity to a narrow outer-shell region due to internal diffusion limitations. However, research efforts continue to focus on enhancing Co–alkali metal contact on unsupported powder samples under inert conditions, even though, under industrial conditions, catalysts are exposed to inhibitory components of waste gases and N2O, and the powder form is unsuitable for practical application. This study aims at testing N2O decomposition over catalysts with a Co3O4-Cs active phase supported on a ceramic foam. For this purpose, we characterized these catalysts by H2 temperature-programmed reduction, H2O and NO temperature-programmed desorption, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction and assessed their catalytic performance under an inert-gas atmosphere and with O2, water vapor, and NO to simulate industrial conditions. Using a pseudo-homogeneous, one-dimensional model of an ideal plug flow reactor in an isothermal regime, the simulation calculations for a full-scale catalytic reactor for N2O abatement in waste gas from HNO3 production were performed. The Cs2CO3 precursor significantly enhanced catalyst reducibility and electron transferability, increasing N2O decomposition efficiency in inert gas, but its high hygroscopicity decreased resistance to water vapor and NO, overriding its advantages under industrial conditions. Conversely, glycerol-assisted impregnation enhanced catalyst performance regardless of Cs precursor. These foam-supported catalysts offered several other advantages, including lower pressure drop and lower active phase loading with matching catalytic activity. Based on our findings, depositing Cs2CO3 on ceramic foam through glycerol-assisted impregnation may facilitate catalytic N2O decomposition at the industrial level and, therefore, promote environmental sustainability by reducing N2O emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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27 pages, 4536 KB  
Article
The Model and Burner Development for Crude Glycerol and Used Vegetable Mixing: Cube Mushroom Steaming Oven
by Anumut Siricharoenpanich, Paramust Juntarakod and Paisarn Naphon
Eng 2026, 7(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7020056 - 25 Jan 2026
Viewed by 733
Abstract
Reducing fuel costs, maximizing waste utilization, and improving energy efficiency are critical challenges in agricultural thermal processes. This study addresses these issues by developing and evaluating a mixed-fuel burner and furnace system for steaming mushroom substrate cubes using crude glycerol and recycled vegetable [...] Read more.
Reducing fuel costs, maximizing waste utilization, and improving energy efficiency are critical challenges in agricultural thermal processes. This study addresses these issues by developing and evaluating a mixed-fuel burner and furnace system for steaming mushroom substrate cubes using crude glycerol and recycled vegetable oil as low-cost alternative energy sources. The experimental investigation assessed boiler thermal efficiency, combustion efficiency, exhaust-gas composition, temperature distribution, steam generation, and combustion-gas dispersion within the furnace. In parallel, analytical modeling of pressure, temperature, and gas-flow behavior was performed to validate the experimental observations. Five fuel compositions were examined, including 100% used vegetable oil, 100% crude glycerol, and blended ratios of 50/50, 25/75, and 10/90 (glycerol/vegetable oil), with all tests conducted in accordance with DIN EN 203-1 standards. The results demonstrate that blending used vegetable oil with glycerol significantly improves flame stability, increases peak combustion temperatures, and suppresses incomplete-combustion byproducts compared with pure glycerol operation. Combustion efficiencies of 90–99% and boiler thermal efficiencies of 72–73% were achieved. Among the tested fuels, the optimal balance between combustion stability, efficiency, and cost was achieved with a 25% glycerol and 75% used vegetable oil mixture. Economic analysis revealed that the proposed mixed-fuel system offers superior viability compared with LPG, reducing annual fuel costs by approximately 50%, shortening steaming time by 2 h per batch, and achieving a payback period of only 3.26 months. These findings confirm the feasibility of the proposed waste-to-energy system for small- and medium-scale agricultural applications. To further enhance sustainability and renewable fuel utilization, future work should focus on improving air–fuel mixing for higher glycerol fractions, scaling the system for larger farms, and extending its application to other agricultural thermal processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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20 pages, 3327 KB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Electrolysis Reactor Using Automotive Scrap Metals for the Treatment of Water-Soluble Cutting Fluid Solution
by Go-eun Kim, Seong-ho Jang, Hyung-kyu Lee, Ho-min Kim, Young-chae Song, Won-ki Lee and Han-seok Kim
Eng 2026, 7(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7010034 - 9 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 670
Abstract
This study investigated the efficacy of electrochemical treatment of a water-soluble cutting fluid (SCF) solution using Al, Fe, and stainless steel (SUS304) scraps as three-dimensional (3D) electrode packing materials. The SCF solution had an initial CODCr of approximately 109,000 mg·L−1, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the efficacy of electrochemical treatment of a water-soluble cutting fluid (SCF) solution using Al, Fe, and stainless steel (SUS304) scraps as three-dimensional (3D) electrode packing materials. The SCF solution had an initial CODCr of approximately 109,000 mg·L−1, a TOC of approximately 25,000 mg·L−1, and an initial pH of 9.65. During treatment, the pH remained in the alkaline range (9.99–10.67), and the solution conductivity was approximately 1000 μS·cm−1. Using a conventional two-dimensional (2D) configuration, Al exhibited the highest removal efficiencies (TOC: 58.55%; CODCr: 57.12%). An applied current of 0.8 A, corresponding to a current density of 5.00 mA·cm−2 based on the geometric electrode area, and an inter-electrode distance of 40 mm provided an optimal balance between treatment performance and energy consumption. Under these optimized conditions, the introduction of metal scraps as 3D packing media significantly enhanced treatment efficiency. Al scrap (20 g) achieved the highest TOC removal (69.55%), while Fe scrap showed superior CODCr removal (87.42% at 40 g) with the lowest specific energy consumption (0.27 kWh·kg−1 CODremoved). The energy consumption of the baseline D system was 0.46 kWh·kg−1 CODremoved(cage O) and 0.72 kWh·kg−1 CODremoved(cage X). Overall, scrap-based 3D electrodes effectively improved organic removal and energy performance, demonstrating their potential as low-cost and sustainable electrode materials for the electrochemical pre-treatment of high-strength oily wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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21 pages, 3931 KB  
Article
Sustainable Use of Industrial Wastes for Soil Stabilization
by André Studart, Maria Eugenia Boscov, Victor Cavaleiro and Antonio Albuquerque
Eng 2026, 7(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7010004 - 20 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1416
Abstract
Worldwide, large volumes of industrial residues, such as water treatment sludge (WTS), biomass ash (BA), iron slag (IS), and quarry fines (QF), are generated with limited reuse. This study evaluates their potential as additives for two soils, using two types of soils as [...] Read more.
Worldwide, large volumes of industrial residues, such as water treatment sludge (WTS), biomass ash (BA), iron slag (IS), and quarry fines (QF), are generated with limited reuse. This study evaluates their potential as additives for two soils, using two types of soils as matrices. A comprehensive laboratory program (particle size distribution, Proctor compaction, Atterberg limits, falling-head permeability, oedometer consolidation, consolidated undrained triaxial tests, and scanning electron microscopy) was performed on soil–residue mixtures across practical dosages. Optimal mixes balanced strength and transport properties: 15% WTS lowered hydraulic conductivity (k) into the 10−9 m/s range while reducing plasticity; 20% BA rendered the soil non-plastic but increased k into the 10−8–10−7 m/s range; 50% IS increased friction angle while maintaining k ~10−8 m/s; and QF produced modest changes while preserving k ~10−9 m/s. These findings support the sustainable reuse of these industrial wastes for soft soil stabilization, also contributing to the circular economy in the industrial and construction sectors, and are aligned with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals 6, 9, 11, 12, and 15. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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25 pages, 8331 KB  
Article
Aqueous Cymbopogon citratus Extract Mediated Silver Nanoparticles: Part II. Dye Degradation Studies
by Himabindu Kurra, Aditya Velidandi, Ninian Prem Prashanth Pabbathi and Vikram Godishala
Eng 2025, 6(5), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng6050102 - 19 May 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2017
Abstract
This study investigates the catalytic potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using aqueous Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract for the degradation of toxic textile dyes, offering an eco-friendly solution to industrial wastewater treatment. The green-synthesized AgNPs demonstrated remarkable degradation efficiency (>94%) for multiple dyes, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the catalytic potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using aqueous Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract for the degradation of toxic textile dyes, offering an eco-friendly solution to industrial wastewater treatment. The green-synthesized AgNPs demonstrated remarkable degradation efficiency (>94%) for multiple dyes, such as rhodamine B, methyl red, methyl orange, methylene blue, eosin yellow, and Eriochrome black T, in the presence of sodium borohydride. Optimization studies employing a one-factor-at-a-time approach revealed the critical influence of AgNPs and reductant concentration, temperature, and pH. Kinetic analysis confirmed pseudo-first-order degradation behavior. Reactive species scavenging experiments established that hydroxyl radicals and holes played dominant roles in the degradation mechanism. Notably, the AgNPs retained catalytic activity across eight reuse cycles with negligible performance loss, demonstrating strong potential for repeated application. Comparative analysis with data from the literature highlights the superior performance of C. citratus-derived AgNPs in terms of reaction rate and efficiency. This work underscores the value of plant-extract-mediated AgNPs synthesis not only for its environmental compatibility but also for its catalytic effectiveness. The study advances the practical applicability of green nanotechnology in wastewater remediation and supports its integration into sustainable industrial practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies for the Treatment and Reduction of Pollutants in Industrial Processes)
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