Search Results (7,226)

The growing need to improve the management of end-of-life vehicle (ELV) waste and mitigate its environmental impact is a global concern. One promising approach to enhancing the recyclability of these vehicles is leveraging synergies between the automotive and construction industries as part of a circular economy strategy. In this context, ELV waste emerges as a valuable source of secondary raw materials, enabling the development of sustainable innovations that capitalize on its physical and mechanical properties. This paper aims to develop and evaluate construction industry composites incorporating waste from ELV carpets, with a focus on maintaining or enhancing performance compared to conventional materials. To achieve this, an experimental program was designed to assess cementitious composites, specifically subfloor mortars, incorporating automotive carpet waste (ACW). The results demonstrate that, beyond the physical and mechanical properties of the developed composites, the dynamic stiffness significantly improved across all tested waste incorporation levels. This finding highlights the potential of these composites as an alternative material for impact noise insulation in flooring systems. From an academic perspective, this research advances knowledge on the application of ACW in cement-based composites for construction. In terms of managerial contributions, two key market opportunities emerge: (1) the commercial exploitation of composites produced with ELV carpet waste and (2) the development of a network of environmental service providers to ensure a stable waste supply chain for innovative and sustainable products. Both strategies contribute to reducing landfill disposal and mitigating the environmental impact of ELV waste, reinforcing the principles of the circular economy. Full article

Every year, a billion tires are discarded worldwide, with only a small percentage being recycled. This leads to significant environmental hazards, such as fire risks and improper disposal. Silty sand also presents technical challenges due to its poor shear strength, susceptibility to erosion, and low permeability. This study explores the incorporation of crumb rubber derived from waste tires into silty sand to enhance its mechanical properties. Crumb rubber particles of varying sizes (3–6 mm, 5–10 mm, and 10–20 mm) were mixed with silty sand at 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9% percentages, respectively. Triaxial compression tests of unconsolidated and consolidated undrained tests with cell pressures of 100, 300, and 500 kPa were conducted. The deviatoric stress, shear stress, and stiffness modulus were investigated. The results revealed that the addition of crumb rubber significantly increased the deviatoric and shear stresses, especially at particle sizes of 5–10 mm, with contents of 3%, 6%, and 9%. Additionally, the stiffness modulus was notably reduced in the mixture containing 6% crumb rubber tire. These findings suggest that incorporating crumb rubber tires into silty sand not only improves silty sand performance but also offers an environmentally sustainable approach to tire waste recycling, making it a viable strategy for silty sand stabilization in construction and geotechnical engineering performance. Full article

Nuclear power is a low-emission and economically competitive energy source, yet the effective disposal and management of its associated radioactive waste can be challenging. Radioactive waste can be categorised as high-level waste (HLW), intermediate-level waste (ILW), and low-level waste (LLW). LLW primarily comprises materials contaminated during routine clean-up, such as mop heads, paper towels, and floor sweepings. While LLW is less radioactive compared to HLW and ILW, the management of LLW poses significant challenges due to the large volume that requires processing and disposal. The volume of LLW can be significantly reduced through sorting, which is typically performed manually in a labour-intensive way. Smart management techniques, such as computer vision (CV) and machine learning (ML), have great potential to help reduce the workload and human errors during LLW sorting. This paper provides a comprehensive review of previous research related to LLW sorting and a summative review of existing applications of CV in solid waste management. It also discusses state-of-the-art CV and ML algorithms and their potential for automating LLW sorting. This review lays a foundation for and helps facilitate the applications of CV and ML techniques in LLW sorting, paving the way for automated LLW sorting and sustainable LLW management. Full article

The construction industry plays a major role in the consumption of natural resources and the generation of waste. Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is produced in substantial volumes globally and is widely available. Its accumulation poses serious challenges related to storage and disposal, highlighting the need for effective strategies to mitigate the associated environmental impacts of the sector. This investigation intends to evaluate the influence of mixed CDW on the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of mortars with CDW partially replacing Portland cement, and allow performance comparisons with mortars produced with fly ash, a commonly used supplementary binder in cement-based materials. Thus, three mortar formulations were developed (reference mortar, mortar with 25% CDW, and mortars with 25% fly ash) and several characterization tests were carried out on the CDW powder and the developed mortars. The work’s principal findings revealed that through mechanical grinding processes, it was possible to obtain a CDW powder suitable for cement replacement and with good indicators of pozzolanic activity. The physical properties of the mortars revealed a decrease of about 10% in water absorption by immersion, which resulted in improved performance regarding durability, especially with regard to the lower carbonation depth (−1.1 mm), and a decrease of 51% in the chloride diffusion coefficient, even compared to mortars incorporating fly ash. However, the mechanical performance of the mortars incorporating CDW was reduced (25% in terms of flexural strength and 58% in terms of compressive strength), but their practical applicability was never compromised and their mechanical performance proved to be superior to that of mortars incorporating fly ash. Full article

This review outlines a comprehensive methodology for the research and development of heterogeneous catalytic technologies (R&D_HeCaTe). Emphasis is placed on the fundamental interactions between reactants, solvents, and heterogeneous catalysts—specifically the roles of catalytic centers and support materials (e.g., functional groups) in modulating activation energies and stabilizing catalytic functionality. Particular attention is given to catalyst deactivation mechanisms and potential regeneration strategies. The application of molecular modeling and chemical engineering analyses, including reaction kinetics, thermal effects, and mass and heat transport phenomena, is identified as essential for R&D_HeCaTe. Reactor configuration is discussed in relation to key physicochemical parameters such as molecular diffusivity, reaction exothermicity, operating temperature and pressure, and the phase and “aggressiveness” of the reaction system. Suitable reactor types—such as suspension reactors, fixed-bed reactors, and flow microreactors—are evaluated accordingly. Economic and environmental considerations are also addressed, with a focus on the complexity of reactions, selectivity versus conversion trade-offs, catalyst disposal, and separation challenges. To illustrate the breadth and applicability of the proposed framework, representative industrial processes are discussed, including ammonia synthesis, fluid catalytic cracking, methanol production, alkyl tert-butyl ethers, and aniline. Full article

With the global economic restructuring and the consequent population mobility, urban shrinkage has become a common phenomenon. The Qinling–Daba Mountains, a zone with a key ecological function in China, have long experienced population decline and functional degradation. Clarifying the dynamics and influencing factors of urban shrinkage plays a vital role in supporting the sustainable development of the region. This study, using permanent resident population growth rates and nighttime light data, classified cities in the region into four spatial patterns: expansion–growth, intensive growth, expansion–shrinkage, and intensive shrinkage. It further examined the spatial characteristics of shrinkage across four periods (2005–2010, 2010–2015, 2015–2020, and 2020–2022). A Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR) model was applied to examine core influencing factors and their spatiotemporal heterogeneity. The results indicated the following: (1) The dominant pattern of urban shrinkage in the Qinling–Daba Mountains shifted from expansion–growth to expansion–shrinkage, highlighting the paradox of population decline alongside continued spatial expansion. (2) Three critical indicators significantly influenced urban shrinkage: the number of students enrolled in general secondary schools (X₅), the per capita disposable income of urban residents (X₇), and the number of commercial and residential service facilities (X₁₂), with their effects exhibiting significant spatiotemporal heterogeneity. Temporally, X₁₂ was the most influential factor in 2005 and 2010, while in 2015, 2020, and 2022, X₅ and X₇ became the dominant factors. Spatially, X₇ significantly affected both eastern and western areas; X₅’s influence was most pronounced in the west; and X₁₂ had the greatest impact in the east. This study explored the patterns and underlying drivers of urban shrinkage in underdeveloped areas, aiming to inform sustainable development practices in regions facing comparable challenges. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasingly recognized as a significant comorbidity in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D), despite its historical association with type 2 diabetes. This review focuses on summarizing current findings regarding the role of insulin resistance in the development of MASLD in T1D, as well as examining the relationship between MASLD and diabetes-related complications. We will also briefly discuss the prevalence, diagnostic challenges, associated complications, and potential mechanisms underlying MASLD in T1D. Although insulin resistance is well established in MASLD among those with type 2 diabetes, its role in T1D requires further clarification. Emerging markers, such as the estimated glucose disposal rate, offer early insight into this relationship. MASLD in T1D is linked to both microvascular and macrovascular complications, including nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Variability in prevalence estimates reflects inconsistencies among imaging modalities, emphasizing the need for standardized, non-invasive diagnostic approaches. Recognizing and addressing MASLD and its links to insulin resistance and diabetes complications in T1D is vital for mitigating long-term complications and enhancing clinical outcomes. Full article

Some of nuclear power’s primary detractors are the unique environmental challenges and impacts of radioactive wastes generated during fuel cycle operations. Key benefits of spent fuel reprocessing (SFR) are reductions in primary high active waste (HAW) masses, volumes, and lengths of radiotoxicity at the expense of secondary waste generation and high capital and operational costs. By employing advanced waste management and resource recovery concepts in SFR beyond the existing standard PUREX process, such as minor actinide and fission product partitioning, these challenges could be mitigated, alongside further reductions in HAW volumes, masses, and duration of radiotoxicity. This work assesses various current and proposed SFR and fuel cycle options as base cases, with further options for fission product partitioning of the high heat radionuclides (HHRs), rare earths, and platinum group metals investigated. A focus on primary waste outputs and the additional energy that could be generated by the reprocessing of high-burnup PWR fuel from Gen III(+) reactors using a simple fuel cycle model is used; the effects of 5- and 10-year spent fuel cooling times before reprocessing are explored. We demonstrate that longer cooling times are preferable in all cases except where short-lived isotope recovery may be desired, and that the partitioning of high-heat fission products (Cs and Sr) could allow for the reclassification of traditional raffinates to intermediate level waste. Highly active waste volume reductions approaching 50% vs. PUREX raffinate could be achieved in single-target partitioning of the inactive and low-activity rare earth elements, and the need for geological disposal could potentially be mitigated completely if HHRs are separated and utilised. Full article

Environmental monitoring plays a key role in understanding and mitigating the effects of climate change, pollution, and resource mismanagement. The growth of printed sensor technologies offers an innovative approach to addressing these challenges due to their low cost, flexibility, and scalability. Printed sensors enable the real-time monitoring of air, water, soil, and climate, providing significant data for data-driven decision-making technologies and policy development to improve the quality of the environment. The development of new materials, such as graphene, conductive polymers, and biodegradable substrates, has significantly enhanced the environmental applications of printed sensors by improving sensitivity, enabling flexible designs, and supporting eco-friendly and disposable solutions. The development of inkjet, screen, and roll-to-roll printing technologies has also contributed to the achievement of mass production without sacrificing quality or performance. This review presents the current progress in printed sensors for environmental applications, with a focus on technological advances, challenges, applications, and future directions. Moreover, the paper also discusses the challenges that still exist due to several issues, e.g., sensitivity, stability, power supply, and environmental sustainability. Printed sensors have the potential to revolutionize ecological monitoring, as evidenced by recent innovations such as Internet of Things (IoT) integration, self-powered designs, and AI-enhanced data analytics. By addressing these issues, printed sensors can develop a better understanding of environmental systems and help promote the UN sustainable development goals. Full article

Multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) have emerged as powerful optimization tools for addressing the complex, often conflicting goals present in modern waste disposal systems. This review explores recent advances and practical applications of MOEAs in key areas, including waste collection routing, waste-to-energy (WTE) systems, and facility location and allocation. Real-world case studies from cities like Braga, Lisbon, Uppsala, and Cyprus demonstrate how MOEAs can enhance operational efficiency, boost energy recovery, and reduce environmental impacts. While these algorithms offer significant advantages, challenges remain in computational complexity, adapting to dynamic environments, and integrating with emerging technologies. Future research directions highlight the potential of combining MOEAs with machine learning and real-time data to create more flexible and responsive waste management strategies. By leveraging these advancements, MOEAs can play a pivotal role in developing sustainable, efficient, and adaptive waste disposal systems capable of meeting the growing demands of urbanization and stricter environmental regulations. Full article

The growth of rural residents’ disposable income is essential for narrowing the income gap between urban and rural areas and promoting integrated development. This study explores how China’s National Main Functional Zoning Plan influences rural household income through its regulatory impact on construction land expansion. Using data from county−level administrative units across China, the research identified the construction land regulation index as a key mediating variable linking zoning policy to changes in household income. By shifting the analytical perspective from a traditional urban–rural classification to a framework aligned with the National Main Functional Zoning Plan, the study reveals how spatial planning tools, particularly differentiated land quota allocations, influence household income. The empirical results confirm a structured causal chain in which zoning policy affects land development intensity, which in turn drives rural income growth. This relationship varies across different functional zones. In key development zones, strict land control limits income potential by constraining land supply. In main agricultural production zones, moderate regulatory control enhances land use efficiency and contributes to higher income levels. In key ecological function zones, ecological constraints require diverse approaches to value realization. The investigation contributes both theoretical and practical insights by elucidating the microeconomic effects of national spatial planning policies and offering actionable guidance for optimizing land use regulation to support income growth tailored to regional functions. Full article

Having in view the current global disruptive social and economic landscape, sustainability becomes more important than ever. As producers become more concerned about adopting more sustainable practices, customer awareness towards sustainable behavior must be the focus of all stakeholders. Within this context, the SHIFT framework (proposed in 2019) highlights the manner in which consumers’ traits and attitudes influence their propensity towards sustainable consumption. It consists of five factors considered to be relevant to consumer behavior: Social influence, Habit formation, Individual self, Feelings and cognition, and Tangibility. Different from previous studies, this research focuses on applying the SHIFT framework to the automotive industry, taking into consideration the contribution of digital technologies to fostering sustainable consumer behavior throughout the entire product lifecycle. Using a qualitative research approach, the most relevant digital technologies in the automotive industry were identified and mapped in relation to the three phases of consumption (choice, usage, and disposal). The research aimed to develop and test an original conceptual framework, starting from the SHIFT. The results of the study highlight the fact that the digital technologies, in their diversity, are integrated in different ways into each of the three phases, facilitating the adoption of sustainable consumption. To achieve sustainability, the two key stakeholders, consumers and producers, should share a common ground on capitalizing the opportunities offered by digital technologies. Full article

The surface of the Great Wall harbors a large number of non-vascular plants dominated by cyanobacteria, lichens and mosses as well as microorganisms, and form biocrusts by cementing with the soils and greatly alters the pore structure of the soil and the ecohydrological processes associated with the soil pore space, and thus influences the soil resistance to erosion. However, the microscopic role of the biocrusts in influencing the pore structure of the surface of the Great Wall is not clear. This study chose the Warring States Qin Great Wall in Weiyuan, Gansu Province, China, as research site to quantify thepore structure characteristics of the three-dimensional of bare soil, cyanobacterial-lichen crusts, and moss crusts at the depth of 0–50 mm, by using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray computed tomography and image analysis, and the precipitation infiltration process. The results showed that the moss crust layer was dominated by large pores with long extension and good connectivity, which provided preferential seepage channels for precipitation infiltration, while the connectivity between the cyanobacterial-lichen crust voids was poor; The porosity of the cyanobacterial-lichen crust and the moss crust was 500% and 903.27% higher than that of the bare soil, respectively. The porosity of the subsurface layer of cyanobacterial-lichen crust and moss crust was significantly lower than that of the biocrusts layer by 92.54% and 97.96%, respectively, and the porosity of the moss crust was significantly higher than that of the cyanobacterial-lichen crust in the same layer; Cyanobacterial-lichen crusts increased the degree of anisotropy, mean tortuosity, moss crust reduced the degree of anisotropy, mean tortuosity. Biocrusts increased the fractal dimension and Euler number of pores. Compared with bare soil, moss crust and cyanobacterial-lichen crust increased the isolated porosity by 2555% and 4085%, respectively; Biocrusts increased the complexity of the pore network models; The initial infiltration rate, stable infiltration rate, average infiltration rate, and the total amount of infiltration of moss crusted soil was 2.26 and 3.12 times, 1.07 and 1.63 times, respectively, higher than that of the cyanobacterial-lichen crusts and the bare soil, by 1.53 and 2.33 times, and 1.13 and 2.08 times, respectively; CT porosity and clay content are significantly positively correlated with initial soil infiltration rate (|r| ≥ 0.85), while soil type and organic matter content are negatively correlated with initial soil infiltration rate. The soil type and bulk density are directly positively and negatively correlated with CT porosity, respectively (|r| ≥ 0.52). There is a significant negative correlation between soil clay content and porosity (|r| = 0.15, p < 0.001). Biocrusts alter the erosion resistance of rammed earth walls by affecting the soil microstructure of the earth’s great wall, altering precipitation infiltration, and promoting vascular plant colonisation, which in turn alters the erosion resistance of the wall. The research results have important reference for the development of disposal plans for biocrusts on the surface of archaeological sites. Full article

Carbon fiber (CF) and carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are widely used in the aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors due to their high strength, stiffness, and low density. However, significant waste is generated during manufacturing and after the use of CFRPs. Traditional disposal methods like landfilling and incineration are unsustainable. CFRP machining processes, such as drilling and milling, produce fine chips and dust that are difficult to recycle due to their heterogeneity and contamination. This study investigates the oxidation behavior of CFRP drilling waste from two types of materials (tube and plate) under oxidative (non-inert) conditions. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was performed from 200 °C to 800 °C to assess weight loss related to polymer degradation and carbon fiber integrity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze morphological changes and fiber damage. The optimal range for removing the polymer matrix without significant fiber degradation has been identified as 500–600 °C. At temperatures above 700 °C, notable surface and internal fiber damage occurred, along with nanostructure formation, which may pose health and environmental risks. The results show that partial fiber recovery is possible under ambient conditions, and this must be considered regarding the harmful risks to the human body if submicron particles are inhaled. This research supports sustainable CFRP recycling and fire hazard mitigation. Full article

Numerical simulations enable us to couple multiphase flow and geochemical processes to evaluate how sequestration impacts brine chemistry and reservoir properties. This study investigates these impacts during CO₂ storage at the San Juan Basin CarbonSAFE (SJB) site. The hydrodynamic model was calibrated through history-matching, utilizing data from saltwater disposal wells to improve predictive accuracy. Core-scale simulations incorporating mineral interactions and equilibrium reactions validated the model against laboratory flow-through experiments. The calibrated geochemical model was subsequently upscaled into a field-scale 3D model of the SJB site to predict how mineral precipitation and dissolution affect reservoir properties. The results indicate that the majority of the injected CO₂ is trapped structurally, followed by residual trapping and dissolution trapping; mineral trapping was found to be negligible in this study. Although quartz and calcite precipitation occurred, the dissolution of feldspars, phyllosilicates, and clay minerals counteracted these effects, resulting in a minimal reduction in porosity—less than 0.1%. The concentration of the various ions in the brine is directly influenced by dissolution/precipitation trends. This study provides valuable insights into CO₂ sequestration’s effects on reservoir fluid dynamics, mineralogy, and rock properties in the San Juan Basin. It highlights the importance of reservoir simulation in assessing long-term CO₂ storage effectiveness, particularly focusing on geochemical interactions. Full article