Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (1,322)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = emission control area

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
24 pages, 9190 KiB  
Article
Modeling the Historical and Future Potential Global Distribution of the Pepper Weevil Anthonomus eugenii Using the Ensemble Approach
by Kaitong Xiao, Lei Ling, Ruixiong Deng, Beibei Huang, Qiang Wu, Yu Cao, Hang Ning and Hui Chen
Insects 2025, 16(8), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080803 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 264
Abstract
The pepper weevil Anthonomus eugenii is a devastating pest native to Central America that can cause severe damage to over 35 pepper varieties. Global trade in peppers has significantly increased the risk of its spread and expansion. Moreover, future climate change may add [...] Read more.
The pepper weevil Anthonomus eugenii is a devastating pest native to Central America that can cause severe damage to over 35 pepper varieties. Global trade in peppers has significantly increased the risk of its spread and expansion. Moreover, future climate change may add more uncertainty to its distribution, resulting in considerable ecological and economic damage globally. Therefore, we employed an ensemble model combining Random Forests and CLIMEX to predict the potential global distribution of A. eugenii in historical and future climate scenarios. The results indicated that the maximum temperature of the warmest month is an important variable affecting global A. eugenii distribution. Under the historical climate scenario, the potential global distribution of A. eugenii is concentrated in the Midwestern and Southern United States, Central America, the La Plata Plain, parts of the Brazilian Plateau, the Mediterranean and Black Sea coasts, sub-Saharan Africa, Northern and Southern China, Southern India, Indochina Peninsula, and coastal area in Eastern Australia. Under future climate scenarios, suitable areas in the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and China, are projected to expand toward higher latitudes. In China, the number of highly suitable areas is expected to increase significantly, mainly in the south and north. Contrastingly, suitable areas in Central America, northern South America, the Brazilian Plateau, India, and the Indochina Peninsula will become less suitable. The total land area suitable for A. eugenii under historical and future low- and high-emission climate scenarios accounted for 73.12, 66.82, and 75.97% of the global land area (except for Antarctica), respectively. The high-suitability areas identified by both models decreased by 19.05 and 35.02% under low- and high-emission scenarios, respectively. Building on these findings, we inferred the future expansion trends of A. eugenii globally. Furthermore, we provide early warning of A. eugenii invasion and a scientific basis for its spread and outbreak, facilitating the development of effective quarantine and control measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Ecology, Diversity and Conservation)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 16545 KiB  
Article
Multi-Objective Land Use Optimization Based on NSGA-II and PLUS Models: Balancing Economic Development and Carbon Neutrality Goals
by Hanlong Gu, Shuoxin Liu, Chongyang Huan, Ming Cheng, Xiuru Dong and Haohang Sun
Land 2025, 14(8), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081585 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 296
Abstract
Land use/land cover (LULC) change constitutes a critical driver influencing regional carbon cycling processes. Optimizing LULC structures represents a significant pathway toward the realization of carbon neutrality. This study takes Liaoning Province as a case area to analyze LULC changes from 2000 to [...] Read more.
Land use/land cover (LULC) change constitutes a critical driver influencing regional carbon cycling processes. Optimizing LULC structures represents a significant pathway toward the realization of carbon neutrality. This study takes Liaoning Province as a case area to analyze LULC changes from 2000 to 2020 and to assess their impacts on land use carbon emissions (LUCE) and ecosystem carbon storage (ECS). To accelerate the achievement of carbon neutrality, four development scenarios are established: natural development (ND), low-carbon emission (LCE), high-carbon storage (HCS), and carbon neutrality (CN). For each scenario, corresponding optimization objectives and constraint conditions are defined, and a multi-objective LULC optimization coupling model is formulated to optimize both the quantity structure and spatial pattern of LULC. On this basis, the model quantifies ECS and LUCE under the four scenarios and evaluates the economic value of each scenario and its contribution to the carbon neutrality target. Results indicate the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the extensive expansion of construction land resulted in a reduction in ECS by 12.72 × 106 t and an increase in LUCE by 150.44 × 106 t; (2) Compared to the ND scenario, the LCE scenario exhibited the most significant performance in controlling carbon emissions, while the HCS scenario achieved the highest increase in carbon sequestration. The CN scenario showed significant advantages in reducing LUCE, enhancing ECS, and promoting economic growth, achieving a reduction of 0.18 × 106 t in LUCE, an increase of 118.84 × 106 t in ECS, and an economic value gain of 3386.21 × 106 yuan. This study optimizes the LULC structure from the perspective of balancing economic development, LUCE reduction, and ECS enhancement. It addresses the inherent conflict between regional economic growth and ecological conservation, providing scientific evidence and policy insights for promoting LULC optimization and advancing carbon neutrality in similar regions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1386 KiB  
Article
Assessing Sustainable Growth: Evolution and Convergence of Green Total Factor Productivity in Tibetan Plateau Agriculture
by Mengmeng Zhang and Chengqun Yu
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6963; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156963 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 152
Abstract
Accurate assessment of green productivity is essential for advancing sustainable agriculture in ecologically fragile regions. This study examined the evolution of agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) in Tibet over the period 2002–2021 by applying a super-efficiency SBM-GML model that accounts for undesirable [...] Read more.
Accurate assessment of green productivity is essential for advancing sustainable agriculture in ecologically fragile regions. This study examined the evolution of agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) in Tibet over the period 2002–2021 by applying a super-efficiency SBM-GML model that accounts for undesirable outputs. We decompose AGTFP into technical change and efficiency change, conduct redundancy analysis to identify sources of inefficiency and explore its spatiotemporal dynamics through kernel density estimation and convergence analysis. Results show that (1) AGTFP in Tibet grew at an average annual rate of 0.78%, slower than the national average of 1.6%; (2) labor input, livestock scale, and agricultural carbon emissions are major sources of redundancy, especially in pastoral regions; (3) technological progress is the main driver of AGTFP growth, while efficiency gains have a limited impact, reflecting a technology-led growth pattern; (4) AGTFP follows a “convergence-divergence-reconvergence” trend, with signs of conditional β convergence after controlling for regional heterogeneity. These findings highlight the need for region-specific green agricultural policies. Priority should be given to improving green technology diffusion and input allocation in high-altitude pastoral areas, alongside strengthening ecological compensation and interregional coordination to enhance green efficiency and promote high-quality development across Tibet. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

33 pages, 16026 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Analysis of BTEX and PM Using Me-DOAS and GIS in Busan’s Industrial Complexes
by Min-Kyeong Kim, Jaeseok Heo, Joonsig Jung, Dong Keun Lee, Jonghee Jang and Duckshin Park
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080638 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 261
Abstract
Rapid industrialization and urbanization have progressed in Korea, yet public attention to hazardous pollutants emitted from industrial complexes remains limited. With the increasing coexistence of industrial and residential areas, there is a growing need for real-time monitoring and management plans that account for [...] Read more.
Rapid industrialization and urbanization have progressed in Korea, yet public attention to hazardous pollutants emitted from industrial complexes remains limited. With the increasing coexistence of industrial and residential areas, there is a growing need for real-time monitoring and management plans that account for the rapid dispersion of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). In this study, we conducted spatiotemporal data collection and analysis for the first time in Korea using real-time measurements obtained through mobile extractive differential optical absorption spectroscopy (Me-DOAS) mounted on a solar occultation flux (SOF) vehicle. The measurements were conducted in the Saha Sinpyeong–Janglim Industrial Complex in Busan, which comprises the Sasang Industrial Complex and the Sinpyeong–Janglim Industrial Complex. BTEX compounds were selected as target volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and real-time measurements of both BTEX and fine particulate matter (PM) were conducted simultaneously. Correlation analysis revealed a strong relationship between PM10 and PM2.5 (r = 0.848–0.894), indicating shared sources. In Sasang, BTEX levels were associated with traffic and localized facilities, while in Saha Sinpyeong–Janglim, the concentrations were more influenced by industrial zoning and wind patterns. Notably, inter-compound correlations such as benzene–m-xylene and p-xylene–toluene suggested possible co-emission sources. This study proposes a GIS-based, three-dimensional air quality management approach that integrates variables such as traffic volume, wind direction, and speed through real-time measurements. The findings are expected to inform effective pollution control strategies and future environmental management plans for industrial complexes. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 13565 KiB  
Article
Estimation of Ultrahigh Resolution PM2.5 in Urban Areas by Using 30 m Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 AOD Retrievals
by Hao Lin, Siwei Li, Jiqiang Niu, Jie Yang, Qingxin Wang, Wenqiao Li and Shengpeng Liu
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2609; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152609 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 255
Abstract
Ultrahigh resolution fine particulate matter (PM2.5) mass concentration remote sensing products are crucial for atmospheric environmental monitoring, pollution source verification, health exposure risk assessment, and other fine-scale applications in urban environments. This study developed an ultrahigh resolution retrieval algorithm to estimate [...] Read more.
Ultrahigh resolution fine particulate matter (PM2.5) mass concentration remote sensing products are crucial for atmospheric environmental monitoring, pollution source verification, health exposure risk assessment, and other fine-scale applications in urban environments. This study developed an ultrahigh resolution retrieval algorithm to estimate 30 m resolution PM2.5 mass concentrations over urban areas from Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2A/B satellite measurements. The algorithm utilized aerosol optical depth (AOD) products retrieved from the Landsat-8 OLI and Sentinel-2 MSI measurements from 2017 to 2020, combined with multi-source auxiliary data to establish a PM2.5-AOD relationship model across China. The results showed an overall high coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.82 and 0.76 for the model training accuracy based on samples and stations, respectively. The model prediction accuracy in Beijing and Wuhan reached R2 values of 0.86 and 0.85. Applications in both cities demonstrated that ultrahigh resolution PM2.5 has significant advantages in resolving fine-scale spatial patterns of urban air pollution and pinpointing pollution hotspots. Furthermore, an analysis of point source pollution at a typical heavy pollution emission enterprise confirmed that ultrahigh spatial resolution PM2.5 can accurately identify the diffusion trend of point source pollution, providing fundamental data support for refined monitoring of urban air pollution and air pollution prevention and control. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 12174 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Trends and Exceedance Drivers of Ozone Concentration in the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration, China
by Junli Xu and Jian Wang
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080907 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 317
Abstract
The Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration, characterized by high population density, an advanced transportation system, and a concentration of industrial activity, is one of the regions severely affected by O3 pollution in central and eastern China. Using data collected from 251 monitoring [...] Read more.
The Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration, characterized by high population density, an advanced transportation system, and a concentration of industrial activity, is one of the regions severely affected by O3 pollution in central and eastern China. Using data collected from 251 monitoring stations between 2015 and 2025, this paper analyzed the spatio-temporal variation of 8 h O3 concentrations and instances of exceedance. On the basis of exploring the influence of meteorological factors on regional 8 h O3 concentration, the potential source contribution areas of pollutants under the exceedance condition were investigated using the HYSPLIT model. The results indicate a rapid increase in the 8 h O3 concentration at a rate of 0.91 ± 0.98 μg·m−3·a−1, with the average number of days exceeding concentration standards reaching 41.05 in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration. Spatially, the 8 h O3 concentrations were higher in coastal areas and lower in inland regions, as well as elevated in plains compared to hilly terrains. This distribution was significantly distinct from the concentration growth trend characterized by higher levels in the northwest and lower levels in the southeast. Furthermore, it diverged from the spatial characteristics where exceedances primarily occurred in the heavily industrialized northeastern region and the lightly industrialized central region, indicating that the growth and exceedance of 8 h O3 concentrations were influenced by disparate factors. Local human activities have intensified the emissions of ozone precursor substances, which could be the key driving factor for the significant increase in regional 8 h O3 concentrations. In the context of high temperatures and low humidity, this has contributed to elevated levels of 8 h O3 concentrations. When wind speeds were below 2.5 m·s−1, the proportion of 8 h O3 concentrations exceeding the standards was nearly 0 under almost calm wind conditions, and it showed an increasing trend with rising wind speeds, indicating that the potential precursor sources that caused high O3 concentrations originated occasionally from inland regions, with very limited presence within the study area. This observation implies that the main cause of exceedances was the transport effect of pollution from outside the region. Therefore, it is recommended that the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration adopt economic and technological compensation mechanisms within and between regions to reduce the emission intensity of precursor substances in potential source areas, thereby effectively controlling O3 concentrations and improving public living conditions and quality of life. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2688 KiB  
Article
Acid-Modified Biochar Derived from Agricultural Waste for Efficiently Capturing Low-Concentration Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Mechanisms and Environmental Implications
by Mingming Fu, Yingdi Ma, Fengrui Yang, Ziyu Xiao, Mei Wang, Shaoyuan Bai, Qin Zhang, Huili Liu, Dandan Xu and Yanan Zhang
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080623 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 386
Abstract
Low-concentration N2O (≤5%) emissions from agricultural fields and waste treatment facilities in China reach 7.333 × 105 t annually, making them a significant but inadequately controlled contributor to global warming. Agricultural wastes were selected as precursors to prepare biochar, including [...] Read more.
Low-concentration N2O (≤5%) emissions from agricultural fields and waste treatment facilities in China reach 7.333 × 105 t annually, making them a significant but inadequately controlled contributor to global warming. Agricultural wastes were selected as precursors to prepare biochar, including pecan shell (SH), poplar sawdust (JM), wheat straw (XM), and corn straw (YM), which were subsequently acid-modified with 0.1 mol L−1 HCl. The objectives were (i) to quantify the enhancement in N2O capture achievable by acid treatment, (ii) to elucidate the underlying chemisorption mechanism, and (iii) to identify the most efficient feedstock for practical deployment. Acid modification increased the oxygen content, specific surface area, and the number of hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on the biochar surface. Both modified and unmodified biochar followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 ≥ 0.960), indicating chemisorption-dominated processes. The adsorption performance ranked as XM > JM > SH > YM, with XM exhibiting the highest adsorption capacity (26.000 mol/kg unmodified, 43.088 mol/kg modified, 65.72% increase). The Langmuir model provided a better fit for N2O adsorption, suggesting dynamic multilayer heterogeneous adsorption. The findings demonstrate that acid-modified biochar derived from agricultural waste is a scalable, economical, and environmentally friendly adsorbent for mitigating low-concentration N2O emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Toxicity Reduction and Environmental Remediation)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 2199 KiB  
Article
Carbon Footprint and Energy Balance Analysis of Rice-Wheat Rotation System in East China
by Dingqian Wu, Yezi Shen, Yuxuan Zhang, Tianci Zhang and Li Zhang
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081778 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
The rice-wheat rotation is the main agricultural cropping system in Jiangsu Province, playing a vital role in ensuring food security and promoting economic development. However, current research on rice-wheat systems mainly focuses on in-situ controlled experiments at the point scale, with limited studies [...] Read more.
The rice-wheat rotation is the main agricultural cropping system in Jiangsu Province, playing a vital role in ensuring food security and promoting economic development. However, current research on rice-wheat systems mainly focuses on in-situ controlled experiments at the point scale, with limited studies addressing carbon footprint (CF) and energy balance (EB) at the regional scale and long time series. Therefore, we analyzed the evolution patterns of the CF and EB of the rice-wheat system in Jiangsu Province from 1980 to 2022, as well as their influencing factors. The results showed that the sown area and total yield of rice and wheat exhibited an increasing–decreasing–increasing trend during 1980–2022, while the yield per unit area increased continuously. The CF of rice and wheat increased by 4172.27 kg CO2 eq ha−1 and 2729.18 kg CO2 eq ha−1, respectively, with the greenhouse gas emissions intensity (GHGI) showing a fluctuating upward trend. Furthermore, CH4 emission, nitrogen (N) fertilizer, and irrigation were the main factors affecting the CF of rice, with proportions of 36%, 20.26%, and 17.34%, respectively. For wheat, N fertilizer, agricultural diesel, compound fertilizer, and total N2O emission were the primary contributors, accounting for 42.39%, 22.54%, 13.65%, and 13.14%, respectively. Among energy balances, the net energy (NE) of rice exhibited an increasing and then fluctuating trend, while that of wheat remained relatively stable. The energy utilization efficiency (EUE), energy productivity (EPD), and energy profitability (EPF) of rice showed an increasing and then decreasing trend, while wheat decreased by 46.31%, 46.31%, and 60.62% during 43 years, respectively. Additionally, N fertilizer, agricultural diesel, and compound fertilizer accounted for 43.91–45.37%, 21.63–25.81%, and 12.46–20.37% of energy input for rice and wheat, respectively. Moreover, emission factors and energy coefficients may vary over time, which is an important consideration in the analysis of long-term time series. This study analyzes the ecological and environmental effects of the rice-wheat system in Jiangsu Province, which helps to promote the development of agriculture in a green, low-carbon, and high-efficiency direction. It also offers a theoretical basis for constructing a low-carbon sustainable agricultural production system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agroecology Innovation: Achieving System Resilience)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1810 KiB  
Article
Tinnitus in Normal-Hearing Individuals: Is Outer Hair Cell Dysfunction the Mechanism?
by Theognosia Chimona, Maria Vrentzou, Emmanouel Erotokritakis, Eleni Tsakiraki, Panagiota Asimakopoulou and Chariton Papadakis
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5232; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155232 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 343
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cochlear “injury” is thought to be a significant cause of tinnitus in patients with hearing loss. Interestingly, individuals with normal hearing may also experience tinnitus. This study evaluates otoacoustic distortion product emissions (DPOAEs) in individuals with normal hearing who experience tinnitus perception. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cochlear “injury” is thought to be a significant cause of tinnitus in patients with hearing loss. Interestingly, individuals with normal hearing may also experience tinnitus. This study evaluates otoacoustic distortion product emissions (DPOAEs) in individuals with normal hearing who experience tinnitus perception. Methods: In this prospective study, the tinnitus group (TG) consisted of 34 subjects with tinnitus (four unilaterally) and normal hearing (threshold ≤ 25 dBHL at 0.25–8 kHz). The control group (CG) comprised 10 healthy volunteers (20 ears) without tinnitus and normal hearing. Medical history was recorded, and all participants underwent a complete otolaryngological examination, pure tone audiometry, and DPOAE recording (DP-gram, L1 = 55 dB, L2 = 65 dB, for F2: 619–10,000 Hz). Moreover, participants in the TG completed a detailed tinnitus history (with self-rated loudness scoring) and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (Greek-version THI-G) and underwent tinnitus analysis. Results: The recorded mean DPOAE values during the DP-gram of the CG were significantly larger in amplitude at low (t-test, Bonferroni-corrected p < 0.09) and high frequencies (t-test, Bonferroni-corrected p < 0.02) compared with the TG. Tinnitus assessment showed tinnitus pitch matching at the frequency area in the DP-gram, where the acceptance recording criteria were not met. There were no statistically significant differences in tinnitus onset, self-rated loudness scores of >70, and severe disability (THI-G > 58) for TG subjects in whom DPOAEs were not recorded at frequencies of ≤1000 Hz. Participants with abnormal DPOAEs at around 4000 Hz had tinnitus of sudden onset and severe disability (THI-G > 58). Finally, those with pathological recordings of DPOAEs at ≥6000 Hz had gradual onset tinnitus (Pearson Chi-square test, p < 0.05). Conclusions: DPOAEs in normal hearing individuals with tinnitus show lower amplitudes in low and high frequencies compared with normal hearing individuals without tinnitus. The tinnitus matched-frequency coincided with the frequency area where DPOAEs were abnormal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Otolaryngology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1665 KiB  
Article
Challenges of Organic Amendments: Impact of Vermicompost Leachate and Biochar on Popcorn Maize in Saline Soil
by Brenda Rivas-Aratoma, Wendy E. Pérez, Luis Felipe Ortiz-Dongo, Yuri Arévalo-Aranda and Richard Solórzano-Acosta
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 8041; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15148041 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
Organic amendments provide a sustainable strategy to enhance soil quality in degraded environments while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, for example, by improving soil structure, minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers, and promoting a green economy. This study assessed the comparative [...] Read more.
Organic amendments provide a sustainable strategy to enhance soil quality in degraded environments while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, for example, by improving soil structure, minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers, and promoting a green economy. This study assessed the comparative effects of two organic amendments—vermicompost leachate and biochar—on the performance of popcorn maize (Zea mays L. var. everta) cultivated in saline soil conditions. Four treatments were evaluated: T0 (Control), T1 (Vermicompost leachate), T2 (Biochar), and T3 (Vermicompost leachate + Biochar), each with 10 replicates arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Although various soil physicochemical, microbiological, and agronomic parameters displayed no significant differences compared to the control, the application of biochar resulted in considerable improvements in soil total organic carbon, the microbial community (mesophilic aerobic bacteria, molds, and yeasts), and increased seed length and diameter. In contrast, vermicompost leachate alone negatively impacted plant growth, leading to decreases in leaf area, stem thickness, and grain yield. Specifically, grain yield declined by 46% with leachate alone and by 31% when combined with biochar, compared to the control. These findings emphasize the superior effectiveness of biochar over vermicompost leachate as a soil amendment under saline conditions and highlight the potential risks of widely applying compost teas in stressed soils. It is recommended to conduct site-specific assessments and screenings for phytotoxins and phytopathogens prior to use. Additionally, the combined application of leachate and biochar may not be advisable given the tested soil characteristics. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 11154 KiB  
Article
The Pore Structure and Fractal Characteristics of Upper Paleozoic Coal-Bearing Shale Reservoirs in the Yangquan Block, Qinshui Basin
by Jinqing Zhang, Xianqing Li, Xueqing Zhang, Xiaoyan Zou, Yunfeng Yang and Shujuan Kang
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(7), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9070467 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 345
Abstract
The investigation of the pore structure and fractal characteristics of coal-bearing shale is critical for unraveling reservoir heterogeneity, storage-seepage capacity, and gas occurrence mechanisms. In this study, 12 representative Upper Paleozoic coal-bearing shale samples from the Yangquan Block of the Qinshui Basin were [...] Read more.
The investigation of the pore structure and fractal characteristics of coal-bearing shale is critical for unraveling reservoir heterogeneity, storage-seepage capacity, and gas occurrence mechanisms. In this study, 12 representative Upper Paleozoic coal-bearing shale samples from the Yangquan Block of the Qinshui Basin were systematically analyzed through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-pressure mercury intrusion, and gas adsorption experiments to characterize pore structures and calculate multi-scale fractal dimensions (D1D5). Key findings reveal that reservoir pores are predominantly composed of macropores generated by brittle fracturing and interlayer pores within clay minerals, with residual organic pores exhibiting low proportions. Macropores dominate the total pore volume, while mesopores primarily contribute to the specific surface area. Fractal dimension D1 shows a significant positive correlation with clay mineral content, highlighting the role of diagenetic modification in enhancing the complexity of interlayer pores. D2 is strongly correlated with the quartz content, indicating that brittle fracturing serves as a key driver of macropore network complexity. Fractal dimensions D3D5 further unveil the synergistic control of tectonic activity and dissolution on the spatial distribution of pore-fracture systems. Notably, during the overmature stage, the collapse of organic pores suppresses mesopore complexity, whereas inorganic diagenetic processes (e.g., quartz cementation and tectonic fracturing) significantly amplify the heterogeneity of macropores and fractures. These findings provide multi-scale fractal theoretical insights for evaluating coal-bearing shale gas reservoirs and offer actionable recommendations for optimizing the exploration and development of Upper Paleozoic coal-bearing shale gas resources in the Yangquan Block of the Qinshui Basin. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 8827 KiB  
Article
Nano-Biochar Enhanced Adsorption of NO3-N and Its Role in Mitigating N2O Emissions: Performance and Mechanisms
by Weimin Xing, Tao Zong, Yidi Sun, Wenhao Fang, Tong Shen and Yuhao Zhou
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1723; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071723 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 502
Abstract
Biochar (BC) demonstrates considerable potential for reducing nitrogen emissions. However, it frequently exhibits a limited capacity for the adsorption of NO3-N, thereby reducing its effectiveness in mitigating N2O emissions. Nano-biochar (NBC) is attracting attention due to its higher [...] Read more.
Biochar (BC) demonstrates considerable potential for reducing nitrogen emissions. However, it frequently exhibits a limited capacity for the adsorption of NO3-N, thereby reducing its effectiveness in mitigating N2O emissions. Nano-biochar (NBC) is attracting attention due to its higher surface energy, but there is a lack of information on enhancing NO3-N adsorption and reducing N2O emissions. Accordingly, this study conducted batch adsorption experiments for NO3-N and simulated N2O emissions experiments. The NO3-N adsorption experiments included two treatments: bulk BC and NBC; the N2O emissions experiments involved three treatments: a no-biochar control, BC, and NBC. N2O emissions experiments were incorporated into the soil at mass ratios of 0.3%, 0.6%, 1%, and 3%. The results demonstrate that NBC exhibits nearly twice the NO3-N adsorption capacity compared to bulk biochar (BC), with adsorption behavior best described by a physical adsorption model. The enhanced adsorption performance was primarily attributed to NBC’s significantly increased specific surface area, pore volume, abundance of surface acidic functional groups, and higher aromaticity, which collectively strengthened multiple sorption mechanisms, including physical adsorption, electrostatic interactions, π–π interactions, and apparent ion exchange. In addition, NBC application (0.3–3%) reduced cumulative N2O emissions by 11.60–54.77%, outperforming BC (9.16–32.65%). NBC treatments also increased soil NH4+-N and NO3-N concentrations by 2.4–8.2% and 7.3–59.0%, respectively, indicating improved inorganic N retention. Overall, NBC demonstrated superior efficacy over bulk BC in mitigating N2O emissions and conserving soil nitrogen, highlighting its promise as a sustainable amendment for integrated nutrient management and greenhouse gas reduction in soil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safe and Efficient Utilization of Water and Fertilizer in Crops)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3070 KiB  
Article
Characteristics and Sources of VOCs During a Period of High Ozone Levels in Kunming, China
by Chuantao Huang, Yufei Ling, Yunbo Chen, Lei Tong, Yuan Xue, Chunli Liu, Hang Xiao and Cenyan Huang
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070874 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 292
Abstract
The increasing levels of ozone pollution have become a significant environmental issue in urban areas worldwide. Previous studies have confirmed that the urban ozone pollution in China is mainly controlled by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) rather than nitrogen oxides. Therefore, a study on [...] Read more.
The increasing levels of ozone pollution have become a significant environmental issue in urban areas worldwide. Previous studies have confirmed that the urban ozone pollution in China is mainly controlled by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) rather than nitrogen oxides. Therefore, a study on the emission characteristics and source analysis of VOCs is important for controlling urban ozone pollution. In this study, hourly concentrations of 57 VOC species in four groups were obtained in April 2022, a period of high ozone pollution in Kunming, China. The ozone formation potential analysis showed that the accumulated reactive VOCs significantly contributed to the subsequent ozone formation, particularly aromatics (44.16%) and alkanes (32.46%). In addition, the ozone production rate in Kunming is mainly controlled by VOCs based on the results of the empirical kinetic modeling approach (KNOx/KVOCs = 0.25). The hybrid single-particle Lagrangian integrated trajectory model and polar coordinate diagram showed high VOC and ozone concentrations from the southwest outside the province (50.28%) and the south in local areas (12.78%). Six factors were obtained from the positive matrix factorization model: vehicle exhaust (31.80%), liquefied petroleum gas usage (24.16%), the petrochemical industry (17.81%), fuel evaporation (11.79%), coal burning (7.47%), and solvent usage (6.97%). These findings underscore that reducing anthropogenic VOC emissions and strengthening controls on the related sources could provide a scientifically robust strategy for mitigating ozone pollution in Kunming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

35 pages, 2895 KiB  
Review
Ventilated Facades for Low-Carbon Buildings: A Review
by Pinar Mert Cuce and Erdem Cuce
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2275; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072275 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 643
Abstract
The construction sector presently consumes about 40% of global energy and generates 36% of CO2 emissions, making facade retrofits a priority for decarbonising buildings. This review clarifies how ventilated facades (VFs), wall assemblies that interpose a ventilated air cavity between outer cladding [...] Read more.
The construction sector presently consumes about 40% of global energy and generates 36% of CO2 emissions, making facade retrofits a priority for decarbonising buildings. This review clarifies how ventilated facades (VFs), wall assemblies that interpose a ventilated air cavity between outer cladding and the insulated structure, address that challenge. First, the paper categorises VFs by structural configuration, ventilation strategy and functional control into four principal families: double-skin, rainscreen, hybrid/adaptive and active–passive systems, with further extensions such as BIPV, PCM and green-wall integrations that couple energy generation or storage with envelope performance. Heat-transfer analysis shows that the cavity interrupts conductive paths, promotes buoyancy- or wind-driven convection, and curtails radiative exchange. Key design parameters, including cavity depth, vent-area ratio, airflow velocity and surface emissivity, govern this balance, while hybrid ventilation offers the most excellent peak-load mitigation with modest energy input. A synthesis of simulation and field studies indicates that properly detailed VFs reduce envelope cooling loads by 20–55% across diverse climates and cut winter heating demand by 10–20% when vents are seasonally managed or coupled with heat-recovery devices. These thermal benefits translate into steadier interior surface temperatures, lower radiant asymmetry and fewer drafts, thereby expanding the hours occupants remain within comfort bands without mechanical conditioning. Climate-responsive guidance emerges in tropical and arid regions, favouring highly ventilated, low-absorptance cladding; temperate and continental zones gain from adaptive vents, movable insulation or PCM layers; multi-skin adaptive facades promise balanced year-round savings by re-configuring in real time. Overall, the review demonstrates that VFs constitute a versatile, passive-plus platform for low-carbon buildings, simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency, durability and indoor comfort. Future advances in smart controls, bio-based materials and integrated energy-recovery systems are poised to unlock further performance gains and accelerate the sector’s transition to net-zero. Emerging multifunctional materials such as phase-change composites, nanostructured coatings, and perovskite-integrated systems also show promise in enhancing facade adaptability and energy responsiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Energy and Environment in Buildings)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1534 KiB  
Article
Predictability of Air Pollutants Based on Detrended Fluctuation Analysis: Ekibastuz Сoal-Mining Center in Northeastern Kazakhstan
by Oleksandr Kuchanskyi, Andrii Biloshchytskyi, Yurii Andrashko, Alexandr Neftissov, Svitlana Biloshchytska and Sergiy Bronin
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(7), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9070273 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 600
Abstract
Environmental comfort and air pollution are among the most important indicators for assessing the population’s quality of life in urban agglomerations. This study aims to explore long-term memory in air pollution time series by analyzing the dynamics of the Hurst exponent and evaluating [...] Read more.
Environmental comfort and air pollution are among the most important indicators for assessing the population’s quality of life in urban agglomerations. This study aims to explore long-term memory in air pollution time series by analyzing the dynamics of the Hurst exponent and evaluating the predictability index. This type of statistical pre-forecast analysis is essential for developing accurate forecasting models for such time series. The effectiveness of air quality monitoring systems largely depends on the precision of these forecasts. The Ekibastuz coal-mining center, which houses one of the largest coal-fired power stations in Kazakhstan and the world, with a capacity of about 4000 MW, was chosen as an example for the study. Data for the period from 1 March 2023 to 31 December 2024 were collected and analyzed at the Ekibastuz coal-fired power station. During the specified period, 14 indicators (67,527 observations) were collected at 10 min intervals, including mass concentrations of CO, NO, NO2, SO2, PM2.5, and PM10, as well as current mass consumption of CO, NO, NO2, SO2, dust, and NOx. The detrended fluctuation analysis of a time series of air pollution indicators was used to calculate the Hurst exponent and identify long-term memory. Changes in the Hurst exponent in regards to dynamics were also investigated, and a predictability index was calculated to monitor emissions of pollutants in the air. Long-term memory is recorded in the structure of all the time series of air pollution indicators. Dynamic analysis of the Hurst exponent confirmed persistent time series characteristics, with an average Hurst exponent of about 0.7. Identifying the time series plots for which the Hurst exponent is falling (analysis of the indicator of dynamics), along with the predictability index, is a sign of an increase in the influence of random factors on the time series. This is a sign of changes in the dynamics of the pollutant release concentrations and may indicate possible excess emissions that need to be controlled. Calculating the dynamic changes in the Hurst exponent for the emission time series made it possible to identify two distinct clusters corresponding to periods of persistence and randomness in the operation of the coal-fired power station. The study shows that evaluating the predictability index helps fine-tune the parameters of time series forecasting models, which is crucial for developing reliable air pollution monitoring systems. The results obtained in this study allow us to conclude that the method of trended fluctuation analysis can be the basis for creating an indicator of the level of air pollution, which allows us to quickly respond to possible deviations from the established standards. Environmental services can use the results to build reliable monitoring systems for air pollution from coal combustion emissions, especially near populated areas. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop