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Search Results (408)

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Keywords = biomass preservation

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13 pages, 1134 KiB  
Article
Biological and Physico-Chemical Properties of Lobosphaera sp. Packed in Metallized Polyethylene Terephthalate/Polyethylene (PETmet/PE)
by Valter F. R. Martins, Ana J. Alves, Fátima Poças, Manuela Pintado, Rui M. S. C. Morais and Alcina M. M. B. Morais
Phycology 2025, 5(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5030035 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of different storage conditions, varying in light exposure, relative humidity (RH), and packaging materials, on the physicochemical stability of Lobosphaera sp. biomass, the retention of bioactive compounds, and the bioactivity of its extracts. Under light and 75% RH, [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effects of different storage conditions, varying in light exposure, relative humidity (RH), and packaging materials, on the physicochemical stability of Lobosphaera sp. biomass, the retention of bioactive compounds, and the bioactivity of its extracts. Under light and 75% RH, the biomass absorbed moisture over time, reaching 0.779 ± 0.003 g/g dry weight (DW) after three months. This was accompanied by a decline in luminosity, chroma, and hue values. In contrast, samples stored under other conditions showed minimal changes, indicating that high humidity, combined with light exposure, compromises biomass stability. Packaging in metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PETmet/PE) effectively preserved the water content, color, and carotenoid levels during a two-month storage period. Bioactive compounds extracted via hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded 15.48 ± 1.35% DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts declined over time in both PETmet/PE and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging, though the decrease was less pronounced in PETmet/PE. Antioxidant activity, assessed via the ABTS assay, remained stable, regardless of storage duration or packaging. Antimicrobial activity of the extract decreased over time but remained more effective against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monocytogenes), with PETmet/PE packaging better preserving antimicrobial efficacy than LDPE. These findings underscore the importance of optimized storage conditions and packaging for maintaining the quality and bioactivity of Lobosphaera sp. biomass and its extracts. Full article
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18 pages, 2376 KiB  
Article
Selection and Characterisation of Elite Mesorhizobium spp. Strains That Mitigate the Impact of Drought Stress on Chickpea
by María Camacho, Francesca Vaccaro, Pilar Brun, Francisco Javier Ollero, Francisco Pérez-Montaño, Miriam Negussu, Federico Martinelli, Alessio Mengoni, Dulce Nombre Rodriguez-Navarro and Camilla Fagorzi
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1694; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151694 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop in Mediterranean agriculture, valued for its nutritional profile and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely impacted by drought stress. To identify microbial solutions that enhance drought resilience, we isolated seven Mesorhizobium strains [...] Read more.
The chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a key legume crop in Mediterranean agriculture, valued for its nutritional profile and adaptability. However, its productivity is severely impacted by drought stress. To identify microbial solutions that enhance drought resilience, we isolated seven Mesorhizobium strains from chickpea nodules collected in southern Spain and evaluated their cultivar-specific symbiotic performance. Two commercial cultivars (Pedrosillano and Blanco Lechoso) and twenty chickpea germplasms were tested under growth chamber and greenhouse conditions, both with and without drought stress. Initial screening in a sterile substrate using nodulation assays, shoot/root dry weight measurements, and acetylene reduction assays identified three elite strains (ISC11, ISC15, and ISC25) with superior symbiotic performance and nitrogenase activity. Greenhouse trials under reduced irrigation demonstrated that several strain–cultivar combinations significantly mitigated drought effects on plant biomass, with specific interactions (e.g., ISC25 with RR-98 or BT6-19) preserving over 70% of shoot biomass relative to controls. Whole-genome sequencing of the elite strains revealed diverse taxonomic affiliations—ISC11 as Mesorhizobium ciceri, ISC15 as Mesorhizobium mediterraneum, and ISC25 likely representing a novel species. Genome mining identified plant growth-promoting traits including ACC deaminase genes (in ISC11 and ISC25) and genes coding for auxin biosynthesis-related enzymes. Our findings highlight the potential of targeted rhizobial inoculants tailored to chickpea cultivars to improve crop performance under water-limiting conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Microbes for Sustainable Crop Production)
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26 pages, 6044 KiB  
Article
Mapping Tradeoffs and Synergies in Ecosystem Services as a Function of Forest Management
by Hazhir Karimi, Christina L. Staudhammer, Matthew D. Therrell, William J. Kleindl, Leah M. Mungai, Amobichukwu C. Amanambu and C. Nathan Jones
Land 2025, 14(8), 1591; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081591 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The spatial variation of forest ecosystem services at regional scales remains poorly understood, and few studies have explicitly analyzed how ecosystem services are distributed across different forest management types. This study assessed the spatial overlap between forest management types and ecosystem service hotspots [...] Read more.
The spatial variation of forest ecosystem services at regional scales remains poorly understood, and few studies have explicitly analyzed how ecosystem services are distributed across different forest management types. This study assessed the spatial overlap between forest management types and ecosystem service hotspots in the Southeastern United States (SEUS) and the Pacific Northwest (PNW) forests. We used the InVEST suite of tools and GIS to quantify carbon storage and water yield. Carbon storage was estimated, stratified by forest group and age class, and literature-based biomass pool values were applied. Average annual water yield and its temporal changes (2001–2020) were modeled using the annual water yield model, incorporating precipitation, potential evapotranspiration, vegetation type, and soil characteristics. Ecosystem service outputs were classified to identify hotspot zones (top 20%) and to evaluate the synergies and tradeoffs between these services. Hotspots were then overlaid with forest management maps to examine their distribution across management types. We found that only 2% of the SEUS and 11% of the PNW region were simultaneous hotspots for both services. In the SEUS, ecological and preservation forest management types showed higher efficiency in hotspot allocation, while in PNW, production forestry contributed relatively more to hotspot areas. These findings offer valuable insights for decision-makers and forest managers seeking to preserve the multiple benefits that forests provide at regional scales. Full article
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16 pages, 1658 KiB  
Article
Environmentally Friendly Chelation for Enhanced Algal Biomass Deashing
by Agyare Asante, George Daramola, Ryan W. Davis and Sandeep Kumar
Phycology 2025, 5(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5030032 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 302
Abstract
High ash content in algal biomass limits its suitability for biofuel production by reducing combustion efficiency and increasing fouling. This study presents a green deashing strategy using nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and deionized (DI) water to purify Scenedesmus algae, which was selected for its [...] Read more.
High ash content in algal biomass limits its suitability for biofuel production by reducing combustion efficiency and increasing fouling. This study presents a green deashing strategy using nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and deionized (DI) water to purify Scenedesmus algae, which was selected for its high ash removal potential. The optimized sequential treatment (DI, NTA chelation, and DI+NTA treatment at 90–130 °C) achieved up to 83.07% ash removal, reducing ash content from 15.2% to 3.8%. Elevated temperatures enhanced the removal of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, while heavy metals like lead and copper were reduced below detection limits. CHN analysis confirmed minimal loss of organic content, preserving biochemical integrity. Unlike traditional acid leaching, this method is eco-friendly after three cycles. The approach offers a scalable, sustainable solution to improve algal biomass quality for thermochemical conversion and supports circular bioeconomy goals. Full article
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17 pages, 2432 KiB  
Article
Fertilization Effects of Solid Digestate Treatments on Earthworm Community Parameters and Selected Soil Attributes
by Anna Mazur-Pączka, Kevin R. Butt, Marcin Jaromin, Edmund Hajduk, Mariola Garczyńska, Joanna Kostecka and Grzegorz Pączka
Agriculture 2025, 15(14), 1511; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15141511 - 13 Jul 2025
Viewed by 810
Abstract
An increasing number of soils, including those in EU countries, are affected by organic matter deficiency and the deterioration of nutrients, and using mineral fertilizers is often associated with negative environmental impacts. One of the basic recommendations for sustainable agriculture is to increase [...] Read more.
An increasing number of soils, including those in EU countries, are affected by organic matter deficiency and the deterioration of nutrients, and using mineral fertilizers is often associated with negative environmental impacts. One of the basic recommendations for sustainable agriculture is to increase the proportion of organic fertilizers in crop production and preserve soil biodiversity. An increasingly common organic fertilizer is biogas plant digestate, the physical and chemical properties of which depend primarily on the waste material used in biogas production. However, the fertilizer value of this additive and its effects on the soil environment, including beneficial organisms, remain insufficiently studied. Soil macrofauna, particularly earthworms, play a crucial role in soil ecosystems, because they significantly impact the presence of plant nutrients, actively participate in forming soil structures, and strongly influence organic matter dynamics. The present study was undertaken to determine the effects of fertilizing a silt loam soil with the solid fraction of digestate in monoculture crop production on earthworm community characteristics and the resulting changes in selected soil physicochemical properties. The research was conducted at a single site, so the original soil characteristics across the experimental plots were identical. Plots were treated annually (for 3 years; 2021–2023) with different levels of digestate: DG100 (100% of the recommended rate; 30 t ha−1), DG75 (75% of the recommended rate; 22.5 t ha−1), DG50 (15 t ha−1), DG25 (7.5 t ha−1), and CL (a control plot without fertilizer). An electrical method was used to extract earthworms. Those found at the study site belonged to seven species representing three ecological groups: Dendrodrilus rubidus (Sav.), Lumbricus rubellus (Hoff.), and Dendrobaena octaedra (Sav.) (epigeics); Aporrectodea caliginosa (Sav.), Aporrectodea rosea (Sav.), and Octolasion lacteum (Örley) (endogeics); and Lumbricus terrestris (L.) (anecics). Significant differences in the abundance and biomass of earthworms were found between the higher level treatments (DG100, DG75, and DG50), and the lowest level of fertilization and the control plot (DG25 and CL). The DG25 and CL plots showed an average of 24.7% lower earthworm abundance and 22.8% lower biomass than the other plots. There were no significant differences in the earthworm metrics between the plots within each of the two groups (DG100, DG75, and DG50; and DG25 and CL). The most significant influence on the average abundance and average biomass of Lumbricidae was probably exerted by soil moisture and the annual dosage of digestate. A significant increase in the abundance and biomass of Lumbricidae was shown at plots DG100, DG75, and DG50 in the three successive years of the experiment. The different fertilizer treatments were found to have different effects on selected soil parameters. No significant differences were found among the values of the analyzed soil traits within each plot in the successive years of the study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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61 pages, 30208 KiB  
Article
New Amber Fossils Indicate That Larvae of Dermestidae Had Longer Defensive Structures in the Past
by Jéhan Le Cadre, Joshua Gauweiler, Joachim T. Haug, Sofía I. Arce, Viktor Baranov, Jörg U. Hammel, Carolin Haug, Uwe Kaulfuss, Christine Kiesmüller, Ryan C. McKellar, Patrick Müller, Marie K. Hörnig and Ana Zippel
Insects 2025, 16(7), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070710 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 664
Abstract
Representatives of Dermestidae (skin, larder, and carpet beetles) play a crucial role as decomposers in global ecosystems, facilitating the recycling of animal and plant biomass to sustain nutrient cycling. Despite their widespread ecological presence and functional importance, the fossil record of their larval [...] Read more.
Representatives of Dermestidae (skin, larder, and carpet beetles) play a crucial role as decomposers in global ecosystems, facilitating the recycling of animal and plant biomass to sustain nutrient cycling. Despite their widespread ecological presence and functional importance, the fossil record of their larval stages has remained sparse, with previous documentation limited to occasional discoveries. This study significantly expands the larval fossil record by identifying 36 amber-preserved specimens from the Cretaceous, Eocene, and Miocene time slices, obtained from deposits distributed globally. By challenging the historical view of larval fossil rarity, we reveal morphological changes in defensive setae over geological time, demonstrating that Cretaceous and later fossil larvae possess significantly longer absolute and relative setal lengths compared to their extant counterparts. These findings, bolstered by quantitative comparisons of setal and body dimensions across fossil and extant representatives, indicate evolutionary adaptations in defensive structures dating back at least 100 million years. Our results offer new insights into the paleobiology of the group Dermestidae, highlighting how the morphology of larvae potentially reflects historical ecological pressures and resources availability. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating fossil evidence with comparative morphology to elucidate the evolutionary trajectories and functional roles of larvae in ancient terrestrial ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revival of a Prominent Taxonomy of Insects)
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28 pages, 6252 KiB  
Article
An Evaluation of Inoculant Additives on Cell Viability and Their Effects on the Growth and Physiology of Glycine max L.
by Francisco Rafael Santos da Conceição, Layara Alexandre Bessa, Marconi Batista Teixeira, Bárbara Gonçalves Cruvinel and Luciana Cristina Vitorino
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071668 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
The development of efficient bioinoculant formulations requires compounds with stabilizing, thickening, and carrier functions to preserve microbial viability and promote biological activity in soil. However, the majority of studies evaluate inoculant formulations predominantly in terms of bacterial viability, overlooking other important performance parameters. [...] Read more.
The development of efficient bioinoculant formulations requires compounds with stabilizing, thickening, and carrier functions to preserve microbial viability and promote biological activity in soil. However, the majority of studies evaluate inoculant formulations predominantly in terms of bacterial viability, overlooking other important performance parameters. This study employed an integrative approach combining in vitro and plant-based assays to assess the effects of starch, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and trehalose in formulations containing Azospirillum brasilense, Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens, Methylobacterium symbioticum, and Paenibacillus alvei, applied to Glycine max seeds. Our hypothesis was that the presence of these additives, each with distinct functional roles (starch as a slow-release carbon source, CMC as a structural agent and protector against physical stress, and trehalose as an osmoprotectant and membrane stabilizer), would influence not only bacterial viability but also the seed germination, growth, and physiological responses of inoculated G. max plants. Starch improved viability in A. brasilense formulations, while both starch and trehalose had positive effects on M. symbioticum. These additives also enhanced plant traits, including dry biomass, chlorophyll content, carboxylation efficiency (A/Ci), and photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm and Pi_Abs). Trehalose was particularly effective in formulations with B. diazoefficiens and M. symbioticum, supporting its use as a versatile stabilizer. In contrast, CMC (0.25%) negatively impacted bacterial viability, especially for B. diazoefficiens and P. alvei, and impaired physiological parameters in G. max when combined with M. symbioticum. These results highlight the need to evaluate formulation components not only for their physical roles but also for their specific interactions with microbial strains and effects on host plants. Such an integrative approach is essential for designing stable, efficient bioinoculants that align with sustainable agricultural practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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22 pages, 1203 KiB  
Review
Impact of Use of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction on the Quality of Brazil Nut Oil (Bertholletia excelsa HBK)
by Orquidea Vasconcelos dos Santos, Sara Camila Vidal Freires, Helen Cristina de Oliveira Palheta and Paulo Henrique de Melo Ferreira
Separations 2025, 12(7), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12070182 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
The quality of materials extracted from plant sources, such as oilseeds, is significantly affected by the extraction techniques employed. Thermo-photosensitive bioactive compounds are especially susceptible, often resulting in a loss of functional properties during conventional processing. In this context, studies involving unconventional or [...] Read more.
The quality of materials extracted from plant sources, such as oilseeds, is significantly affected by the extraction techniques employed. Thermo-photosensitive bioactive compounds are especially susceptible, often resulting in a loss of functional properties during conventional processing. In this context, studies involving unconventional or “innovative” extraction methods have emerged as a strategic approach to preserve the quality of the extracted material (whether by-product or biomass) by aligning with the core principles of green chemistry and the expansion of sustainable production chains. This approach promotes both raw material integrity and the protection of human and environmental health. These efforts contribute to a virtuous cycle of technological innovation and environmentally sound practices. This review focuses on how ultrasound-assisted extraction affects the quality of plant-derived materials, particularly Brazil nut oil. The article compiles data published over the last five years (2020–2025), following the PRISMA methodology. Recent studies highlight the synergistic potential of ultrasound as a green technology for isolating Brazil nut oil, offering enhanced nutritional and functional properties. This aligns with the growing demand for healthier food products obtained through sustainable industrial processes and presents opportunities for diverse applications across several industry sectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction and Characterization of Food Components)
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11 pages, 2180 KiB  
Article
Impact of Mild Acid and Alkali Treatments on Cotton Fibers with Nonlinear Optical Imaging and SEM Analysis
by Huipeng Gao, Xiaoxiao Li, Rui Li, Chao Wang, Hsiang-Chen Chui and Quan Zhang
Photonics 2025, 12(7), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12070688 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
This study investigates the structural effects of dilute acid and alkali treatments on cotton fibers, aiming to understand the influence of chemical pretreatment on cellulose morphology. Cotton samples were exposed to 1% sulfuric acid and 1% sodium hydroxide at 90 °C, and the [...] Read more.
This study investigates the structural effects of dilute acid and alkali treatments on cotton fibers, aiming to understand the influence of chemical pretreatment on cellulose morphology. Cotton samples were exposed to 1% sulfuric acid and 1% sodium hydroxide at 90 °C, and the resulting changes were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and nonlinear optical imaging techniques. The results indicate that sulfuric acid causes significant fiber degradation, leading to fragmentation and reduced fiber thickness. In contrast, sodium hydroxide treatment results in a roughened, flaky surface while preserving the overall structural integrity, with fibers appearing fluffier and more accessible to enzymatic processes. Untreated cotton fibers maintained a smooth and uniform surface, confirming the chemical specificity of the observed changes. These findings are crucial for optimizing biomass pretreatment methods, demonstrating that dilute chemical treatments primarily affect macrostructural features without significantly disrupting the cellulose microfibrils. The study provides valuable insights for the development of efficient biorefining processes and sustainable bio-based materials, highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate chemical conditions to enhance enzymatic hydrolysis and biomass conversion while maintaining the core structure of cellulose. This research contributes to advancing the understanding of cellulose’s structural resilience under mild chemical pretreatment conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optical Interaction Science)
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14 pages, 1465 KiB  
Article
Free-Range Chickens Reared Within an Olive Grove Influenced the Soil Microbial Community and Carbon Sequestration
by Luisa Massaccesi, Rosita Marabottini, Chiara Poesio, Simona Mattioli, Cesare Castellini and Alberto Agnelli
Soil Syst. 2025, 9(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems9030069 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 279
Abstract
Although the benefits of rational grazing by polygastric animals are well known, little is understood about how chicken grazing affects soil biological health and its capacity to store organic matter. This study aimed to assess the impact of long-term free-range chicken grazing in [...] Read more.
Although the benefits of rational grazing by polygastric animals are well known, little is understood about how chicken grazing affects soil biological health and its capacity to store organic matter. This study aimed to assess the impact of long-term free-range chicken grazing in an olive grove on the soil chemical and biochemical properties, including the total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), microbial biomass (Cmic), basal respiration, and microbial community structure, as well as the soil’s capability to stock organic carbon and total nitrogen. A field experiment was conducted in an olive grove grazed by chickens for over 20 years, with the animal load decreasing with distance from the poultry houses. At 20 m, where the chicken density was highest, the soils showed reduced OC and TN contents and a decline in fungal biomass. This was mainly due to the loss of both aboveground vegetation and root biomass from intensive grazing. At 50 m, where grazing pressure was lower, the soil OC, TN, and microbial community size and activity were similar to those in a control, ungrazed area. These findings suggest that high chicken density can negatively affect soil health, while moderate grazing allows for the recovery of vegetation and soil organic matter. Rational management of free-range chicken grazing, particularly through the control of chicken density or managing grazing time and frequency, is therefore recommended to preserve soil functions and fertility. Full article
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16 pages, 1343 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Light on the Germination of Raphanus sativus Seeds and the Use of Sprout Extracts in the Development of a Dermatocosmetic Gel
by Mihaela Carmen Eremia, Ramona Daniela Pavaloiu, Oana Livadariu, Anca Daniela Raiciu, Fawzia Sha’at, Corina Bubueanu and Dana Maria Miu
Gels 2025, 11(7), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070515 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 264
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of different light sources (sunlight, green, red, and white LED) on the germination of Raphanus sativus L. sprouts and the potential use of their sprout extracts in the development of natural dermatocosmetic gels. The bioactive fractions were extracted [...] Read more.
This study investigates the influence of different light sources (sunlight, green, red, and white LED) on the germination of Raphanus sativus L. sprouts and the potential use of their sprout extracts in the development of natural dermatocosmetic gels. The bioactive fractions were extracted using simple methods and analyzed for total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. Statistical analysis of weight, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of Raphanus sativus L. sprouts was performed using ANOVA. Sprouts exposed to green LED light showed the highest biomass (16.13 ± 0.38 g), while red LED light resulted in the highest total polyphenol content (3.28 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g fresh weight). The highest antioxidant activity (6.60 ± 0.08 mM Trolox/g fresh weight) was obtained under white LED. Although variations were observed, ANOVA analysis revealed that only sprout weight differed significantly among treatments (p < 0.001), while differences in polyphenol content and antioxidant activity were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The extract with the highest antioxidant activity was incorporated as an active ingredient into Carbopol-based hydrogel formulations containing natural gelling agents and gentle preservatives. The resulting gels demonstrated favorable pH (4.85–5.05), texture, and stability. The results indicate that the light spectrum influences the germination process and the initial development of seedlings. Moreover, radish sprout extracts, rich in bioactive compounds, show promise for dermatocosmetic applications due to their antioxidant, soothing, and antimicrobial properties. This study supports the use of natural resources in the development of care products, in line with current trends in green cosmetics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gel Applications)
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18 pages, 2562 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Mechanical Durability, Hydrophobicity, Pyrolysis and Combustion Properties of Solid Biofuel Pellets Made from Mildly Torrefied Biomass
by Kanageswari Singara veloo, Anthony Lau and Shahab Sokhansanj
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3464; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133464 - 1 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 308
Abstract
The production of solid biofuels from torrefied biomass holds significant potential for renewable energy applications. Durable pellet formation from severely torrefied biomass is hindered by the loss of natural binding properties, yet studies on mild torrefaction that preserves sufficient binding capacity for pellet [...] Read more.
The production of solid biofuels from torrefied biomass holds significant potential for renewable energy applications. Durable pellet formation from severely torrefied biomass is hindered by the loss of natural binding properties, yet studies on mild torrefaction that preserves sufficient binding capacity for pellet production without external binders or changes to die conditions remain scarce. This paper investigated the production of fuel pellets from torrefied biomass without using external binders or adjusting pelletization parameters. Experiments were conducted using a mild torrefaction temperature (230 °C and 250 °C) and shorter residence time (10, 15, and 30 min). The torrefied materials were then subjected to pelletization using a single-pellet press; and the influence of torrefaction on the mechanical durability, hydrophobicity, and fuel characteristics of the pellets was examined. Results indicated that the mass loss ranging from 10 to 20% among the mild torrefaction treatments was less than the typical extent of mass loss due to severe torrefaction. Pellets made from torrefied biomass (torrefied pellets) had improvement in the hydrophobicity (moisture resistance) when compared to pellets made from untreated biomass (untreated pellets). Improved hydrophobicity is important for storage and transportation of pellets that are exposed to humid environmental conditions, as it reduces the risk of pellet degradation and spoilage. Thermogravimetric analysis of the pyrolysis and combustion behaviour of torrefied pellets indicated the improvement of fuel characteristics in terms of a much higher comprehensive pyrolysis index and greater thermal stability compared to untreated pellets, as evidenced by the prolonged burnout time and reduced combustion characteristics index. Residence time had a more significant impact on pellet durability than temperature, but the durability of the torrefied pellets was lower than that of the untreated pellets. Further research is required to explore the feasibility of producing binder-free durable pellets under mild torrefaction conditions. Overall, the study demonstrated that mild torrefaction could enhance the fuel quality and moisture resistance of biomass pellets, offering promising advantages for energy applications, despite some trade-offs in mechanical durability. Full article
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34 pages, 8670 KiB  
Article
Assessing Climate Impact on Heritage Buildings in Trentino—South Tyrol with High-Resolution Projections
by Camille Luna Stella Blavier, Elena Maines, Piero Campalani, Harold Enrique Huerto-Cardenas, Claudio Del Pero and Fabrizio Leonforte
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070799 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Climate variations impact the preservation of heritage buildings, necessitating a strategic understanding of potential effects to effectively guide preservation efforts. This study analyzes temperature- and precipitation-dependent climate-heritage indices in Trentino–South Tyrol using EURO-CORDEX regional climate models for the period 1971–2100 under RCP 4.5 [...] Read more.
Climate variations impact the preservation of heritage buildings, necessitating a strategic understanding of potential effects to effectively guide preservation efforts. This study analyzes temperature- and precipitation-dependent climate-heritage indices in Trentino–South Tyrol using EURO-CORDEX regional climate models for the period 1971–2100 under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. The selected indices were calculated with climdex-kit and relied on bias-adjusted temperature and precipitation data with a 1 km spatial resolution. The obtained results indicate a geographically punctuated increase in biomass accumulation on horizontal surfaces, a slight decreasing trend in freeze–thaw events, an increase in growing degree days indicating a small, heightened insect activity, and a rise in heavy precipitation days. The Scheffer Index shows a significantly increased potential for wood degradation, particularly under the RCP 8.5 scenario, while the Wet-Frost Index remains consistently low. Finally, according to each identified hazard, adaptive solutions are suggested. These findings provide critical insights into future climate impacts on heritage buildings in the region, aiding stakeholders in planning targeted interventions. The study emphasizes the crucial role of integrating detailed climate data into heritage preservation strategies, advocating for the inclusion of future risk analysis in the “knowledge path” in order to enhance the resilience of buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change Challenges for Heritage Architecture)
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21 pages, 4431 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the K-Poisoning Resistance of Heteropoly Acid-Modified Ce/AC Catalyst for Low-Temperature NH3-SCR
by Tongyue Zhou, Tianlong Xiong, Mengyang Fan, Qiao Chen, Yongchun Deng and Jianjun Li
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2069; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072069 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 302
Abstract
The combustion of biomass fuels releases alkali metals, which induce severe catalyst deactivation due to alkali metal (K) poisoning in low-temperature ammonia selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) systems. To address this issue, this study developed a series of heteropoly acid (HPA)-modified Ce/AC [...] Read more.
The combustion of biomass fuels releases alkali metals, which induce severe catalyst deactivation due to alkali metal (K) poisoning in low-temperature ammonia selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) systems. To address this issue, this study developed a series of heteropoly acid (HPA)-modified Ce/AC catalysts prepared via incipient wetness impregnation. The low-temperature NH3-SCR performance (80–200 °C) of these catalysts was systematically evaluated, with particular emphasis on their denitrification activity and K-poisoning resistance. The silicotungstic-acid (TSiA)-modified Ce/Ac (TSiA-Ce/AC) catalyst showed an improvement (>20%) in NO conversion activity under the K poisoning condition. The superior K-poisoning resistance of the TSiA-Ce/AC catalyst was attributed to the high density of Brønsted acidic sites and the strong K binding affinity of TSiA, which together protected active sites and preserved the standard SCR reaction pathway under K contaminations. This study proposes a novel strategy for enhancing catalyst K resistance in low-temperature NH3-SCR systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metal Catalyst: Synthesis and Application)
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18 pages, 6596 KiB  
Article
Food-Grade Polar Extracts from Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) By-Products: Unlocking Potential for the Food Industry
by Aizhan Ashim, Lama Ismaiel, Benedetta Fanesi, Ancuta Nartea, Antonietta Maoloni, Oghenetega Lois Orhotohwo, Helen Stephanie Ofei Darko, Paolo Lucci, Lucia Aquilanti, Deborah Pacetti, Roberta Pino, Rosa Tundis and Monica Rosa Loizzo
Foods 2025, 14(13), 2304; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14132304 - 28 Jun 2025
Viewed by 406
Abstract
Crithmum maritimum L. is a halophyte with antioxidant and antimicrobial potential for the food industry. Pruning generates a by-product composed of woody stems, old leaves, and flowers. To valorize this underutilized and largely unexplored biomass, food-grade polar extraction (hydroethanolic vs. aqueous) was applied. [...] Read more.
Crithmum maritimum L. is a halophyte with antioxidant and antimicrobial potential for the food industry. Pruning generates a by-product composed of woody stems, old leaves, and flowers. To valorize this underutilized and largely unexplored biomass, food-grade polar extraction (hydroethanolic vs. aqueous) was applied. The extracts were characterized for their bioactive compounds (polyphenols, tocopherols, carotenoids, total phenols (TPC) and total flavonoids (TFC)). Further, the extracts were assessed for their in vitro antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching) and antimicrobial activity against eight target strains ascribed to Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria innocua. The hydroethanolic extract exhibited higher concentration of bioactives compared to the water extract and raw by-product. The β-carotene bleaching test revealed that both extracts are potent inhibitors of lipid peroxidation. The aqueous extract showed no antimicrobial activity, while the ethanolic extract exhibited strain-dependent behavior against S. aureus and L. innocua but not E. coli. The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration of the ethanolic extract against S. aureus were 2.5 MIC and 10.0 MBC mg/mL, respectively. Ethanolic extracts could potentially be used in food formulations to enhance lipid peroxidation resistance and antimicrobial capacity as food-grade natural preservatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Security and Sustainability)
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