Journal Description
Processes
Processes
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on processes/systems in chemistry, biology, material, energy, environment, food, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, automation control, catalysis, separation, particle and allied engineering fields published monthly online by MDPI. The Systems and Control Division of the Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering (CSChE S&C Division) and the Brazilian Association of Chemical Engineering (ABEQ) are affiliated with Processes and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges. Please visit Society Collaborations for more details.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, Inspec, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Chemical) / CiteScore - Q2 (Chemical Engineering (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.5 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Optimal Design of a Renewable-Energy-Driven Integrated Cooling–Freshwater Cogeneration System
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061164 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study presents a novel approach that will address escalating demands for water and cooling in regions vulnerable to climate change through the proposal of an optimal integrated cooling–freshwater cogeneration system powered by renewable energy sources. Comprising three subsystems (integrated multi-effect evaporation distillation,
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This study presents a novel approach that will address escalating demands for water and cooling in regions vulnerable to climate change through the proposal of an optimal integrated cooling–freshwater cogeneration system powered by renewable energy sources. Comprising three subsystems (integrated multi-effect evaporation distillation, absorption heat pump, and vapor compression refrigeration (MAV); renewable energy unit incorporating solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and hydrogen facilities (RHP/BH); and combined heat and power (CHP)), the system aims to produce both cooling and freshwater. By recovering cooling from combined desalination and refrigeration subsystems to chill the air taken into the gas turbine compressor, the system maximizes efficiency. Through the recovery of waste heat and employing an integrated thermo-environ-economic framework, a novel objective function, termed modified total annual cost (MTAC), is introduced for optimization. Using a genetic algorithm, parametric iterative optimization minimizes the MTAC. The results reveal that under optimum conditions, the MAV, RHP/BH, and CHP subsystems account for 67%, 58%, and 100% of total annual, exergy destruction, and environmental costs, respectively. Notably, the system exhibits lower sensitivity to fuel prices than renewable energy sources, suggesting a need for future research that will incorporate dynamic product prices and greater fuel consumption to produce enhanced operational robustness.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimal Design for Renewable Power Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Multi-Objective Optimisation of Injection Moulding Process for Dashboard Using Genetic Algorithm and Type-2 Fuzzy Neural Network
by
Mohammad Reza Chalak Qazani, Mehdi Moayyedian, Parisa Jourabchi Amirkhizi, Mohsen Hedayati-Dezfooli, Ahmed Abdalmonem, Ahmad Alsmadi and Furqan Alam
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1163; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061163 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study examines the use of injection moulding to evaluate mechanical properties in plastic products, such as shear and residual stresses. Key process variables like melt temperature, mould temperature, hold pressure duration, and pure hold duration are meticulously chosen for study. A full
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This study examines the use of injection moulding to evaluate mechanical properties in plastic products, such as shear and residual stresses. Key process variables like melt temperature, mould temperature, hold pressure duration, and pure hold duration are meticulously chosen for study. A full factorial experiment design is utilised to determine the best settings. These variables notably influence the end product’s physical and mechanical properties. Computational techniques, like the finite element method, are used to analyse behaviours based on varied input parameters. A CAD model of a dashboard part is incorporated into a finite element analysis to measure shear and residual stresses. Four specific parameters from the injection moulding process are subjected to an in-depth experimental design. It is worth noting that the injection moulding process does not incorporate a type-2 fuzzy neural network (T2FNN). However, in this particular investigation, T2FNN was employed to replicate the mechanical stress model associated with dashboard injection moulding. Its purpose was to estimate shear and residual stress levels. Additionally, the multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) was utilised to extract the most optimal parameters for the injection moulding process, aiming to minimise shear and residual stress and thereby increase the resistance of the final product. The proposed model was developed and implemented using MATLAB software. A Pareto front was derived from the MOGA by employing the T2FNN within the process, identifying fourteen optimal solutions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Green Manufacturing and Optimization)
Open AccessArticle
Study on the Application of Finite Difference in Geological Mine Fault Groups: A Case Study
by
Jianbo Yuan, Chao Wang, Zhigang Liu, Jingchao Lyu, Yajun Lu, Wuchao You and Jiazheng Yan
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061162 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fault structures can cause a bad mining environment and increase the stress of surrounding coal pillar faults. The study investigates the stress evolution characteristics within fault structure groups and their surrounding coal pillars and explores the extent to which these fault structure groups
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Fault structures can cause a bad mining environment and increase the stress of surrounding coal pillar faults. The study investigates the stress evolution characteristics within fault structure groups and their surrounding coal pillars and explores the extent to which these fault structure groups influence the stress distribution in coal pillars. Based on three-dimensional modeling technology, a transparent geological model of the geological environment of fault structure groups was constructed and finite difference software was used to generate a numerical simulation model. Two survey lines and four survey points were arranged to analyze the stress distribution of a coal pillar fault. The results show that the fault structure groups have obvious stress barrier effects. There is a 35 m stress reduction zone in the hanging wall of the fault and a 30 m stress increase zone in the footwall of the fault. Both FL-1 and FL-3 faults have a stress barrier effect in the hanging wall. The obvious stress increases in the footwall of the fault are 37.7 MPa and 33.5 MPa, respectively. The stress of the FL-2 fault as a whole appears to be a more obvious superposition at the end of mining, and the peak stress reaches 41.5 MPa.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Security Intelligent Monitoring and Big Data Utilization in Coal Mining Process)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Catalytic Dehydrogenation on Ultradisperse Sn-Promoted Ir Catalysts Supported on MgAl2O4 Prepared by Different Techniques
by
Sergio de Miguel, Jayson Fals, Viviana Benitez, Catherine Especel, Florence Epron and Sonia Bocanegra
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1161; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061161 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ir and IrSn catalysts with different Sn contents (0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 wt%) were prepared using MgAl2O4 supports synthesized using two different techniques (the citrate–nitrate combustion and coprecipitation methods). Both supports, with a spinel structure, presented low acidity and good
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Ir and IrSn catalysts with different Sn contents (0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 wt%) were prepared using MgAl2O4 supports synthesized using two different techniques (the citrate–nitrate combustion and coprecipitation methods). Both supports, with a spinel structure, presented low acidity and good textural properties. However, the support prepared by coprecipitation had higher specific surface area and pore volume than the one prepared by combustion, which would favor the dispersion of the metals to be deposited. Likewise, during the preparation of the catalytic materials, a very good interaction was achieved between the metals and both supports, which was confirmed by the presence of sub-nanometer atomic clusters in the mono- and bimetallic catalysts. Regarding the catalytic properties, while the monometallic Ir/MgAl2O4 samples lead to a very low conversion of n-butane and a selectivity towards hydrogenolysis products, the addition of Sn to Ir increases the conversion, decreases hydrogenolysis and therefore sharply increases the selectivity towards the different butenes. Catalysts with higher Sn loadings present better catalytic behavior. One of the roles of the Sn promoter would be to geometrically modify the Ir clusters, drastically decreasing the hydrogenolytic activity. This effect, added to the strong electronic modification of the Ir sites by the action of Sn, with probable Ir-Sn alloy formation, is responsible for the high catalytic performance of these bimetallic catalysts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Catalysis in Chemical and Petrochemical Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Multi-Objective Optimization of a Two-Stage Helical Gearbox with Second Stage Double Gear-Sets Using TOPSIS Method
by
Van-Thanh Dinh, Huu-Danh Tran, Thanh-Danh Bui, Duc-Binh Vu, Duong Vu, Ngoc-Pi Vu and Thi-Thu-Huong Truong
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061160 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
The multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was applied in a novel way in this study to the multi-objective optimization problem (MOOP) of designing a two-stage helical gearbox with double gear-sets in the second stage. Finding the best fundamental components to increase gearbox efficiency and
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The multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was applied in a novel way in this study to the multi-objective optimization problem (MOOP) of designing a two-stage helical gearbox with double gear-sets in the second stage. Finding the best fundamental components to increase gearbox efficiency and decrease gearbox cross-section area was the aim of this study. Three main design factors were chosen for investigation in this work: the first stage gear ratio and the first and second stage coefficients of wheel face width (CWFW). Phase 1 solves the single-objective optimization problem to reduce the gap between variable levels, and phase 2 solves the MOOP to determine the optimal critical design factors. This additionally splits the MOOP into two phases. Additionally, the TOPSIS method was used as an MCDM approach to address the multi-objective optimization issue, and the entropy approach was used to compute the weight criteria. In this study, gearbox efficiency is calculated by considering power losses during idle motion. The multi-objective optimization of a helical gearbox with second stage double gear-sets is addressed using the TOPSIS technique for the first time.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Processes)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Effect of Extruder Configuration and Extrusion Cooking Processing Parameters on Selected Characteristics of Non-Starch Polysaccharide-Rich Wheat Flour as Hybrid Treatment with Xylanase Addition
by
Piotr Lewko, Agnieszka Wójtowicz and Monika Różańska-Boczula
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061159 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The effects of a single-screw extruder configuration and processing variables such as conventional extrusion or hybrid treatments with xylanase were tested on the extrusion performance and selected characteristics of the developed non-starch polysaccharide-rich (NSP-rich) wheat flour. L/D 16 and 20 extruder configurations with
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The effects of a single-screw extruder configuration and processing variables such as conventional extrusion or hybrid treatments with xylanase were tested on the extrusion performance and selected characteristics of the developed non-starch polysaccharide-rich (NSP-rich) wheat flour. L/D 16 and 20 extruder configurations with various screw profiles were used. The interactions between processing variables (moisture content 23, 25, 27%; screw speed 40, 60, 80 rpm; xylanase level 0, 50, 100 ppm) were assessed to indicate energy consumption and the rheological properties of flour. The results showed that the possibility of obtaining enzyme-assisted extruded flour products derived from flours of varying characteristics depended on the processing conditions. The application of various extruder configurations and screw profiles showed significant effects on both processing behavior and rheological characteristics. The longer L/D 20 extruder configuration using a screw profile with mixing elements allowed us to obtain products with lower extrusion pressure (max. 20.8 bar) and energy requirements (max. SME = 33.1 kWh/kg) and better rheological properties (max. Hyd = 69.2%, less intensive starch gelatinization with max. C3 = 1.47 Nm) than the L/D 16 version. The extruded wheat flour was characterized by improved hydration properties and limited retrogradation tendency, especially when hybrid extrusion with xylanase was applied. This may lead to favorable results, as the newly developed enzymatic extrusion modification method produces NSP-rich wheat flour with specific techno-functional and rheological characteristics that can be seen as a potential “clean label” enhancer in bakery products. Our statistical analysis confirmed feed moisture and screw speed to be the variables with the most significant effect on wheat flour features.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Non-thermal Technologies and Thermal Technologies in Food Processing)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Innovative Solution for Invasive Species and Water Pollution: Hydrochar Synthesis from Pleco Fish Biomass
by
Marisol Castro-Cárdenas, Nahum Andrés Medellín-Castillo, Lázaro Adrián González-Fernández, Roberto Leyva-Ramos, Cesar Fernando Azael Gómez-Duran, Yvan Gariepy, K. R. Jolvis Pou and Vijaya Raghavan
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061158 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
In recent years, the invasive pleco fish has emerged as a global concern due to its adverse effects on ecosystems and economic activities, particularly in various water bodies in Mexico. This study introduces an innovative solution, employing microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization (MHTC) to synthesize
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In recent years, the invasive pleco fish has emerged as a global concern due to its adverse effects on ecosystems and economic activities, particularly in various water bodies in Mexico. This study introduces an innovative solution, employing microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization (MHTC) to synthesize hydrochar from pleco fish biomass. The research aimed to optimize synthesis conditions to enhance hydrochar yield, calorific value, and adsorption capacities for fluoride and cadmium in water. MHTC, characterized by low energy consumption, high reaction rates, and a simple design, was employed as a thermochemical process for hydrochar production. Key findings revealed that through response surface analysis, the study identified the optimal synthesis conditions for hydrochar production, maximizing yield and adsorption capacities while minimizing energy consumption. Physicochemical characterization demonstrated that hydrochars derived from pleco fish biomass exhibited mesoporous structures with fragmented surfaces, resembling hydroxyapatite, a major component of bone. Hydrochars derived from pleco fish biomass exhibited promising adsorption capacities for fluoride and cadmium in water, with hydrochar from Exp. 1 (90 min, 160 °C) showing the highest adsorption capacity for fluoride (4.16 mg/g), while Exp. 5 (90 min, 180 °C) demonstrated superior adsorption capacity for cadmium (98.5 mg/g). Furthermore, the utilization of pleco fish biomass for hydrochar production not only offers an eco-friendly disposal method for invasive species but also addresses fluoride and cadmium contamination issues, contributing to sustainable waste management and water treatment solutions. The resulting hydrochar, rich in solid fuel content with low pollutant emissions, presents a promising approach for waste management and carbon sequestration. Moreover, the optimized synthesis conditions pave the way for sustainable applications in energy production, addressing critical environmental and public health concerns. This research provides valuable insights into the potential of microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization for transforming invasive species into valuable resources, thereby mitigating environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Conversion Technique Intensification (Volume II))
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Open AccessArticle
Screening and Optimization of Soil Remediation Strategies Assisted by Machine Learning
by
Bowei Zhang, Xin Wang and Chongxuan Liu
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061157 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
A numerical approach assisted by machine learning was developed for screening and optimizing soil remediation strategies. The approach includes a reactive transport model for simulating the remediation cost and effect of applicable remediation technologies and their combinations for a target site. The simulated
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A numerical approach assisted by machine learning was developed for screening and optimizing soil remediation strategies. The approach includes a reactive transport model for simulating the remediation cost and effect of applicable remediation technologies and their combinations for a target site. The simulated results were used to establish a relationship between the cost and effect using a machine learning method. The relationship was then used by an optimization method to provide optimal remediation strategies under various constraints and requirements for the target site. The approach was evaluated for a site contaminated with both arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at a former shipbuilding factory in Guangzhou City, China. An optimal strategy was obtained and successfully implemented at the site, which included the partial excavation of the contaminated soils and natural attenuation of the residual contaminated soils. The advantage of the approach is that it can fully consider the natural attenuation capacity in designing remediation strategies to reduce remediation costs and can provide cost-effective remediation strategies under variable constraints for policymakers. The approach is general and can be applied for screening and optimizing remediation strategies at other remediation sites.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remediation of Contaminated Sites: Volume II)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
New Insight into the Degradation of Sunscreen Agents in Water Treatment Using UV-Driven Advanced Oxidation Processes
by
Tajana Simetić, Jasmina Nikić, Marija Kuč, Dragana Tamindžija, Aleksandra Tubić, Jasmina Agbaba and Jelena Molnar Jazić
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061156 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study evaluates, for the first time, the effects of UV/PMS and UV/H2O2/PMS processes on the degradation of sunscreen agents in synthetic and natural water matrices and compares their effectiveness with the more conventional UV/H2O2.
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This study evaluates, for the first time, the effects of UV/PMS and UV/H2O2/PMS processes on the degradation of sunscreen agents in synthetic and natural water matrices and compares their effectiveness with the more conventional UV/H2O2. Investigations were conducted using a mixture of organic UV filters containing 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC) and 2-ethylhexyl-4-methoxycinnamate. Among the investigated UV-driven AOPs, UV/PMS/H2O2 was the most effective in synthetic water, while in natural water, the highest degradation rate was observed during the degradation of EHMC by UV/PMS. The degradation of UV filters in the UV/PMS system was promoted by sulfate radical (68% of the degradation), with hydroxyl radical contributing approximately 32%, while both radical species contributed approximately equally to the degradation in the UV/H2O2/PMS system. The Vibrio fischeri assay showed an increase in inhibition (up to 70%) at specific stages of UV/H2O2 treatment when applied to natural water, which further decreased to 30%, along with an increase in UV fluence and progressive degradation. The Pseudomonas putida test recorded minor toxicity (<15%) after treatments. Magnetic biochar utilized in conjunction with UV-driven AOPs exhibited superior performance in eliminating residual contaminants, providing an efficient and sustainable approach to mitigate sunscreen agents in water treatment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Oxidation Processes toward Challenges in Contaminants of Emerging Concern Treatment)
Open AccessReview
Exploration and Frontier of Coal Spontaneous Combustion Fire Prevention Materials
by
Dandan Han, Guchen Niu, Hongqing Zhu, Tianyao Chang, Bing Liu, Yongbo Ren, Yu Wang and Baolin Song
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061155 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mine fires have always been one of the disasters that restrict coal mining in China and endanger the life safety of underground workers. The research and development of new fire prevention materials are undoubtedly important to ensure the safe and efficient production of
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Mine fires have always been one of the disasters that restrict coal mining in China and endanger the life safety of underground workers. The research and development of new fire prevention materials are undoubtedly important to ensure the safe and efficient production of modern mines. At present, the main inhibiting materials used are grout material, inert gas, retarding agent, foam, gel, and so on. In order to explore the current situation of coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) fire prevention, the existing fire prevention materials were reviewed and prospected from three aspects: physical, chemical, and physicochemical inhibition. The results show that, at present, most of the methods of physicochemical inhibition are used to inhibit CSC. Antioxidants have become popular chemical inhibitors in recent years. In terms of physical inhibition, emerging biomass-based green materials, including foams, gels, and gel foams, are used to inhibit CSC. In addition, CSC fire-fighting materials also have shortcomings, including incomplete research on the mechanism of material action, poor stability of inhibitory properties, low efficiency, and economic and environmental protection to be improved. The future research direction of fire-fighting materials will be based on theoretical experiments and numerical simulation to study the mechanism and characteristics of CSC and develop new directional suppression materials with physicochemical synergies. These findings have extremely important implications for improving materials designed to prevent CSC.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Safety Monitoring and Prevention Process in Coal Mines)
Open AccessEditorial
Special Issue on “Advances in Bioprocess Technology”
by
Francesca Raganati and Alessandra Procentese
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061154 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This Special Issue, “Advances in Bioprocess Technology”, focuses on the latest advancements in sustainable bioprocess technologies [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bioprocess Technology)
Open AccessArticle
Comparison of the Limit of Detection of Paracetamol, Propyphenazone, and Caffeine Analyzed Using Thin-Layer Chromatography and High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography
by
Katarzyna Bober-Majnusz and Alina Pyka-Pająk
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061153 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and HPTLC (high-performance thin-layer chromatography) in normal (NP) and reversed (RP) phase systems were combined with densitometry to analyze caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol. This work aims to check whether comparable limit of detection (LOD) values can be obtained on TLC
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TLC (thin-layer chromatography) and HPTLC (high-performance thin-layer chromatography) in normal (NP) and reversed (RP) phase systems were combined with densitometry to analyze caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol. This work aims to check whether comparable limit of detection (LOD) values can be obtained on TLC and HPTLC plates. Analyses were performed on five (NP) or four (RP) different stationary phases (chromatographic plates), testing, in both cases, three mobile phases. It is shown that by using both TLC and HPTLC plates, it is possible to develop chromatographic conditions that enable the detection of compounds analyzed in amounts ranging from a dozen to several dozen µg/spot. In the RP system, lower LOD values for all tested compounds were obtained using TLC than HPTLC. However, performing analyses in the NP, similar (of the same order) LOD values were obtained for caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol when using both TLC and HPTLC plates. For example, during the NP-HPTLC analysis using silica gel 60F254 plates (#1.05548) and mobile phase B (n-hexane—acetone—ammonia, 25:25:0.5, v/v/v), LOD values for caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol were 0.010, 0.046, and 0.030 μg/spot, respectively. During NP-TLC analysis using silica gel 60F254 (#1.05554 plates) and the mobile phase C (chloroform—toluene—ethyl acetate—methanol—80% acetic acid, 18:18:7.5:6:0.3, v/v), the values of LOD were 0.054, 0.029, and 0.016 μg/spot, respectively. During RP-TLC analysis using TLC RP-18F254 plates (#1.05559) and mobile phase F (methanol-water, 40:10, v/v), the LOD values were 0.019, 0.024, and 0.053 μg/spot, respectively. Therefore, for economical reasons, TLC plates should be recommended for analyses of caffeine, propyphenazone, and paracetamol, which are several times cheaper than HPTLC plates.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Chromatographic Separation Techniques in Food and Chemistry—Second Edition)
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Open AccessEditorial
Editorial on the Special Issue “Natural Compounds Applications in Drug Discovery and Development”
by
Alina Bora and Luminita Crisan
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061152 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Nature is an amazing source of natural bioactive compounds derived from numerous species of plants, marine bacteria, and fungi [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Compounds Applications in Drug Discovery and Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Numerical Simulation Study of a Pusher Feed Classifier Based on RNG-DPM Method
by
Youhang Zhou, Xin Zou, Zhuxi Ma, Chong Wu and Yuze Li
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1151; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061151 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The classifier is an essential tool for the development of contemporary engineering technology. The application of classifiers is to categorize mixed-sized particles into multi-stage uniform particle sizes. In current studies, the particles in the classifier obtain their initial velocity when feeding. The classification
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The classifier is an essential tool for the development of contemporary engineering technology. The application of classifiers is to categorize mixed-sized particles into multi-stage uniform particle sizes. In current studies, the particles in the classifier obtain their initial velocity when feeding. The classification effect is impacted by the inability to precisely control the initial state of the particles. To solve this problem, a pusher feed classifier was designed in this study, and a numerical simulation was performed to investigate its flow field characteristics and classification performance using the RNG-DPM method. A pusher is utilized to achieve particle feeding without initial velocity and to precisely control the initial state of the particles in the classification flow field. A newly developed two-way air inlet structure is designed to provide a superimposed flow field and enable the five-stage classification. Our results show that this pusher feed classifier has the best classification effect when the vertical airflow velocity is 10 m/s and the horizontal airflow velocity is 3 m/s. Meanwhile, the classification size ratio (CSR) from outlet 1 to outlet 5 was 1.24, 0.55, 0.45, 0.39, and 0.15, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Separation Processes)
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Open AccessReview
Erosive Wear Caused by Large Solid Particles Carried by a Flowing Liquid: A Comprehensive Review
by
Can Kang, Minghui Li, Shuang Teng, Haixia Liu, Zurui Chen and Changjiang Li
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061150 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The erosive wear encountered in some industrial processes results in economic loss and even disastrous consequences. Hitherto, the mechanism of the erosive wear is not clear, especially when the erosive wear is caused by large particles (>3.0 mm) carried by a flowing liquid.
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The erosive wear encountered in some industrial processes results in economic loss and even disastrous consequences. Hitherto, the mechanism of the erosive wear is not clear, especially when the erosive wear is caused by large particles (>3.0 mm) carried by a flowing liquid. Current approaches of predicting erosive wear need improvement, and the optimization of relevant equipment and systems lacks a sound guidance. It is of significance to further explore such a subject based on the relevant literature. The present review commences with a theoretical analysis of the dynamics of large particles and the fundamental mechanism of erosion. Then the characteristics of the erosion of various equipment are explicated. Effects of influential factors such as particle size and properties of the target material are analyzed. Subsequently, commonly used erosion models, measurement techniques, and numerical methods are described and discussed. Based on established knowledge and the studies reported, some expectations for future work are proposed.
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(This article belongs to the Section Particle Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Observation of Gap Phenomena and Development Processing Technology for ECDM of Sapphire
by
Chun-Hao Yang, Shao-Hua Yu and Hai-Ping Tsui
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061149 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to develop observation techniques and processing technology for the electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) of sapphire wafers. To measure the effect of gas-film thickness, discharge-spark conditions, and droplet sliding frequency on machining quality and efficiency in ECDM,
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The main purpose of this study was to develop observation techniques and processing technology for the electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) of sapphire wafers. To measure the effect of gas-film thickness, discharge-spark conditions, and droplet sliding frequency on machining quality and efficiency in ECDM, this research utilized high-speed cameras to observe the gas film thickness and formation of the gas film during ECDM. Additionally, this study observed the machining-gap phenomena during ECDM. The formation mechanism and machining characteristics of the gas film were understood through experiments. The machining parameters included the liquid level, working voltage, rotation speed, and duty factor. This study analyzed and discussed the effect of each machining parameter on the gas-film thickness, current, electrode consumption, and droplet sliding frequency. Moreover, this study aimed to obtain optimized machining parameters to overcome the difficulty of machining sapphire. The experimental results indicated that utilizing a high-speed camera to capture the phenomena between electrodes during electrochemical discharge could effectively observe the gas-film thickness and the coverage of the gas film. A higher bubble coalescence rate enhanced the machining capability and reduced the lateral discharge. Therefore, this study could obtain better machining-hole depths through observation and analysis to improve gas-film stability and machining capability. This study demonstrated that a liquid level of 700 µm, a working voltage of 48 V, a duty factor of 50%, and a tool electrode rotational speed of 200 rpm could achieve a hole depth of 86.7 µm and a hole diameter of 129.5 µm.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Design and Manufacturing Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of A Moringa Oil–Beeswax Edible Coating on the Shelf-Life and Quality of Fresh Cucumber
by
Shekha Al-Rashdi, Nusaiba Al-Subhi, Mai Al-Dairi and Pankaj B. Pathare
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1148; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061148 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cucumbers are a popular vegetable consumed worldwide and are known for their nutritional value, containing carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamin C, etc. The abundance of a high moisture content is correlated to cucumber perishability, which encourages investigation into ways to maintain its quality and increase
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Cucumbers are a popular vegetable consumed worldwide and are known for their nutritional value, containing carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamin C, etc. The abundance of a high moisture content is correlated to cucumber perishability, which encourages investigation into ways to maintain its quality and increase shelf-life. This study was carried out to determine the effect of a moringa oil–beeswax coating on the quality of fresh cucumber at different storage temperatures for 27 days of storage. Freshly harvested cucumbers were divided into two groups: the first group was coated with the moringa oil–beeswax edible coating, while the other one was not coated (control). Each group was divided into three other subgroups, for storage at 4, 10, and 22 °C. Different quality parameters, including weight loss, color change, firmness, total soluble solid (TSS), vitamin C, and pH, were evaluated. The findings showed that the weight loss of cucumber was highly increased in non-coated samples stored at high temperature. After 27 days of storage, the highest and lowest weight reduction % were recorded for non-coated cucumbers stored at 22 °C (38.09%) and moringa oil–beeswax-coated cucumbers stored at 10 °C (12.35%), respectively. Color analysis revealed that coating had a significant impact on color values, with distinct patterns in lightness, redness-greenness, and yellowness values for both treatments at various temperatures and days. The lightness values showed minimal fluctuations and stabilized at 13.65 at both 4 °C and 10 °C. Temperature and coating had a significant impact on pH levels, with the coating potentially exhibiting a protective effect on pH stability, particularly at lower temperatures (4 °C). Additionally, both groups’ total acidity levels held steady over time and at various temperatures, with the coating having a highly significant effect on total acidity levels. The amount of vitamin C varied significantly with temperature and storage period, but the coating did not affect vitamin C content. At 22 °C, there were notable variations in the vitamin C content over the storage period, with a final value of 37.7 mg/L on coated samples. Temperature and the duration of storage (p < 0.05) had a significant impact on the levels of total soluble solids (TSS), whereas firmness values changed significantly over the storage period only. Moringa oil–beeswax edible coating has the potential to preserve the nutritional value and quality attributes of cucumber.
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(This article belongs to the Section Food Process Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Pressure Interpolation in Water Distribution Networks by Using Gaussian Processes: Application to Leak Diagnosis
by
Pedro-Antonio Liy-González, Ildeberto Santos-Ruiz, Jorge-Alejandro Delgado-Aguiñaga, Adrián Navarro-Díaz, Francisco-Ronay López-Estrada and Samuel Gómez-Peñate
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1147; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061147 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
This work presents the reconstruction of the pressure head map of a water distribution system (WDS). This approach relies on historical data collected from a reduced number of sensors placed at some nodes of the WDS. Thus, a Gaussian regression process is then
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This work presents the reconstruction of the pressure head map of a water distribution system (WDS). This approach relies on historical data collected from a reduced number of sensors placed at some nodes of the WDS. Thus, a Gaussian regression process is then applied to estimate the pressure head at those nodes without a sensor, which allows the reconstruction of the pressure map for the whole network. Then, for leak diagnosis purposes, a dataset of pressure head maps of the WDN is created considering leaky scenarios, and a correlation method is applied to estimate the leak location. Then, for clarity, the Hanoi network is used to evaluate the performance of this leak diagnosis strategy in a simulation environment, assuming the availability of only three sensors. The results showed the potential for pressure head map reconstruction and leak localization.
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(This article belongs to the Section Process Control and Monitoring)
Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Achievements and Challenges of Matrix Solid-Phase Dispersion Usage in the Extraction of Plants and Food Samples
by
Agnieszka Zgoła-Grześkowiak, Tomasz Grześkowiak, Magdalena Ligor and Robert Frankowski
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061146 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
A review of the application of matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) in the extraction of biologically active compounds and impurities from plants and food samples with a particular emphasis on conventional and new types of sorbents has been provided. An overview of MSPD applications
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A review of the application of matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) in the extraction of biologically active compounds and impurities from plants and food samples with a particular emphasis on conventional and new types of sorbents has been provided. An overview of MSPD applications for the isolation of organic residues from biological samples, determined using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, has been presented. In this study, procedural solutions that may extend MSDP applicability for the extraction such as vortex-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, microwave-assisted, and extraction with a magnetic sorbent have been discussed. Special attention has been paid to MSPD sorbents including modified silica, diatomite, magnesium silicate, alumina, carbon materials (carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, graphene, or graphite), molecularly imprinted polymers, and cyclodextrin. An important aspect of the MSPD procedure is the use of high-purity and environmentally friendly solvents for extraction (e.g., deep eutectic solvents), with such criteria being the most important for modern analytical chemistry. Many advantages of MSPD are presented, such as high recoveries, the requirement for a smaller volume of solvent, and shorter procedure times than classical methods.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Separation and Extraction Techniques in Food Processing and Analysis)
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Investigating the Physical and Operational Characteristics of Manufacturing Processes for MFI-Type Zeolite Membranes for Ethanol/Water Separation via Principal Component Analysis
by
Hamdi Chaouk, Emil Obeid, Jalal Halwani, Wiem Abdelbaki, Hanna Dib, Omar Mouhtady, Eddie Gazo Hanna, Célio Fernandes and Khaled Younes
Processes 2024, 12(6), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12061145 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to discern the underlying trends for 31 distinct MFI (Mobil No. 5)-zeolite membranes of 11 textural, chemical, and operational factors related to manufacturing processes. Initially, a comprehensive PCA approach was employed for the entire
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In this study, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to discern the underlying trends for 31 distinct MFI (Mobil No. 5)-zeolite membranes of 11 textural, chemical, and operational factors related to manufacturing processes. Initially, a comprehensive PCA approach was employed for the entire dataset, revealing a moderate influence of the first two principal components (PCs), which collectively accounted for around 38% of the variance. Membrane samples exhibited close proximity, which prevented the formation of any clusters. To address this limitation, a subset acquisition strategy was followed, based on the findings of the PCA for the entire dataset. This resulted in an enhanced overall contribution and the revelation of diverse patterns among the membranes and the considered manufacturing factors (total variance between 55% and 77%). The segmentation of the data unveiled a robust correlation between silica (SiO2) concentration and pervaporation conditions. Additionally, a notable clustering of the chemical compositions of the preparation solutions underscored their significant influence on the operational efficacy of MFI zeolite membranes. On the other hand, an exclusive chemical composition of the preparation solution was noticed. This highlighted the high influence of the chemical composition on the operational efficiency of MFI zeolite membranes. The coupling of PCA with experimental results can provide a data-driven enhancement strategy for the manufacturing of MFI-type zeolite membranes used for ethanol/water separation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic AI and IoT for Promoting Green Operation and Sustainable Environment)
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