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31 pages, 1370 KiB  
Article
AIM-Net: A Resource-Efficient Self-Supervised Learning Model for Automated Red Spider Mite Severity Classification in Tea Cultivation
by Malathi Kanagarajan, Mohanasundaram Natarajan, Santhosh Rajendran, Parthasarathy Velusamy, Saravana Kumar Ganesan, Manikandan Bose, Ranjithkumar Sakthivel and Baskaran Stephen Inbaraj
AgriEngineering 2025, 7(8), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering7080247 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Tea cultivation faces significant threats from red spider mite (RSM: Oligonychus coffeae) infestations, which reduce yields and economic viability in major tea-producing regions. Current automated detection methods rely on supervised deep learning models requiring extensive labeled data, limiting scalability for smallholder farmers. [...] Read more.
Tea cultivation faces significant threats from red spider mite (RSM: Oligonychus coffeae) infestations, which reduce yields and economic viability in major tea-producing regions. Current automated detection methods rely on supervised deep learning models requiring extensive labeled data, limiting scalability for smallholder farmers. This article proposes AIM-Net (AI-based Infestation Mapping Network) by evaluating SwAV (Swapping Assignments between Views), a self-supervised learning framework, for classifying RSM infestation severity (Mild, Moderate, Severe) using a geo-referenced, field-acquired dataset of RSM infested tea-leaves, Cam-RSM. The methodology combines SwAV pre-training on unlabeled data with fine-tuning on labeled subsets, employing multi-crop augmentation and online clustering to learn discriminative features without full supervision. Comparative analysis against a fully supervised ResNet-50 baseline utilized 5-fold cross-validation, assessing accuracy, F1-scores, and computational efficiency. Results demonstrate SwAV’s superiority, achieving 98.7% overall accuracy (vs. 92.1% for ResNet-50) and macro-average F1-scores of 98.3% across classes, with a 62% reduction in labeled data requirements. The model showed particular strength in Mild_RSM-class detection (F1-score: 98.5%) and computational efficiency, enabling deployment on edge devices. Statistical validation confirmed significant improvements (p < 0.001) over baseline approaches. These findings establish self-supervised learning as a transformative tool for precision pest management, offering resource-efficient solutions for early infestation detection while maintaining high accuracy. Full article
17 pages, 1546 KiB  
Article
Design and Optimization of Valve Lift Curves for Piston-Type Expander at Different Rotational Speeds
by Yongtao Sun, Qihui Yu, Zhenjie Han, Ripeng Qin and Xueqing Hao
Fluids 2025, 10(8), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids10080204 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The piston-type expander (PTE), as the primary output component, significantly influences the performance of an energy storage system. This paper proposes a non-cam variable valve actuation system for the PTE, supported by a mathematical model. An enhanced S-curve trajectory planning method is used [...] Read more.
The piston-type expander (PTE), as the primary output component, significantly influences the performance of an energy storage system. This paper proposes a non-cam variable valve actuation system for the PTE, supported by a mathematical model. An enhanced S-curve trajectory planning method is used to design the valve lift curve. The study investigates the effects of various valve lift design parameters on output power and efficiency at different rotational speeds, employing orthogonal design and SPSS Statistics 27 (Statistical Product and Service Solutions) simulations. A grey comprehensive evaluation method is used to identify optimal valve lift parameters for each speed. The results show that valve lift parameters influence PTE performance to varying degrees, with intake duration having the greatest effect, followed by maximum valve lift, while intake end time has the least impact. The non-cam PTE outperforms the cam-based PTE. At 800 rpm, the optimal design yields 7.12 kW and 53.5% efficiency; at 900 rpm, 8.17 kW and 50.6%; at 1000 rpm, 9.2 kW and 46.8%; and at 1100 rpm, 12.09 kW and 41.2%. At these speeds, output power increases by 18.37%, 11.42%, 11.62%, and 9.82%, while energy efficiency improves by 15.01%, 15.05%, 14.24%, and 13.86%, respectively. Full article
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23 pages, 1746 KiB  
Review
Advanced Modification Strategies of Plant-Sourced Dietary Fibers and Their Applications in Functional Foods
by Yansheng Zhao, Ying Shao, Songtao Fan, Juan Bai, Lin Zhu, Ying Zhu and Xiang Xiao
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2710; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152710 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Plant-sourced Dietary Fibers (PDFs) have garnered significant attention due to their multifaceted health benefits, particularly in glycemic control, lipid metabolism regulation, and gut microbiota modulation. This review systematically investigates advanced modification strategies, including physical, chemical, bioengineering, and hybrid approaches, to improve the physicochemical [...] Read more.
Plant-sourced Dietary Fibers (PDFs) have garnered significant attention due to their multifaceted health benefits, particularly in glycemic control, lipid metabolism regulation, and gut microbiota modulation. This review systematically investigates advanced modification strategies, including physical, chemical, bioengineering, and hybrid approaches, to improve the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of PDFs from legumes, cereals, and other sources. Key modifications such as steam explosion, enzymatic hydrolysis, and carboxymethylation significantly improve solubility, porosity, and functional group exposure, thereby optimizing the health-promoting effects of legume-sourced dietary fiber. The review further elucidates critical structure–function relationships, highlighting PDF’s prebiotic potential, synergistic interactions with polyphenols and proteins, and responsive designs for targeted nutrient delivery. In functional food applications, cereal-sourced dietary fibers serve as a versatile functional ingredient in engineered foods including 3D-printed gels and low-glycemic energy bars, addressing specific metabolic disorders and personalized dietary requirements. By integrating state-of-the-art modification techniques with innovative applications, this review provides comprehensive insights into PDF’s transformative role in advancing functional foods and personalized nutrition solutions. Full article
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16 pages, 1141 KiB  
Article
Coordinated Roles of Osmotic Adjustment, Antioxidant Defense, and Ion Homeostasis in the Salt Tolerance of Mulberry (Morus alba L. ‘Tailai Sang’) Seedlings
by Nan Xu, Tiane Wang, Yuan Wang, Juexian Dong and Yu Shaopeng
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081258 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Soil salinization severely limits plant growth and productivity. Mulberry (Morus alba L.), an economically and ecologically important tree, is widely cultivated, yet its salt-tolerance mechanisms at the seedling stage remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated the physiological and biochemical responses of two-year-old [...] Read more.
Soil salinization severely limits plant growth and productivity. Mulberry (Morus alba L.), an economically and ecologically important tree, is widely cultivated, yet its salt-tolerance mechanisms at the seedling stage remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated the physiological and biochemical responses of two-year-old mulberry (‘Tailai Sang’) seedlings subjected to six NaCl treatments (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 300 mmol L−1) for 28 days. Results showed that growth parameters and photosynthetic gas exchange exhibited dose-dependent declines. The reduction in net photosynthetic rate (Pn) was attributed to both stomatal limitations (decreased stomatal conductance) and non-stomatal limitations, as evidenced by a significant decrease in the maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) under high salinity. To cope with osmotic stress, seedlings accumulated compatible solutes, including soluble sugars, proteins, and proline. Critically, mulberry seedlings demonstrated effective ion homeostasis by sequestering Na+ in the roots to maintain a high K+/Na+ ratio in leaves, a mechanism that was compromised above 150 mmol L−1. Concurrently, indicators of oxidative stress—malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2—rose significantly with salinity, inducing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, APX, and GR), which peaked at 150 mmol L−1 before declining under extreme stress. A biomass-based LC50 of 179 mmol L−1 NaCl was determined. These findings elucidate that mulberry salt tolerance is a coordinated process involving three key mechanisms: osmotic adjustment, selective ion distribution, and a robust antioxidant defense system. This study establishes an indicative tolerance threshold under controlled conditions and provides a physiological basis for further field-based evaluations of ‘Tailai Sang’ mulberry for cultivation on saline soils. Full article
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11 pages, 3000 KiB  
Article
Comparative Study of the Bulk and Foil Zinc Anodic Behavior Kinetics in Oxalic Acid Aqueous Solutions
by Vanya Lilova, Emil Lilov, Stephan Kozhukharov, Georgi Avdeev and Christian Girginov
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3635; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153635 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The anodic behavior of zinc electrodes is important for energy storage, corrosion protection, electrochemical processing, and other practical applications. This study investigates the anodic galvanostatic polarization of zinc foil and bulk electrodes in aqueous oxalic acid solutions, revealing significant differences in their electrochemical [...] Read more.
The anodic behavior of zinc electrodes is important for energy storage, corrosion protection, electrochemical processing, and other practical applications. This study investigates the anodic galvanostatic polarization of zinc foil and bulk electrodes in aqueous oxalic acid solutions, revealing significant differences in their electrochemical behavior, particularly in induction period durations. The induction period’s duration depended on electrolyte concentration, current density, and temperature. Notably, the temperature dependence of the kinetics exhibited contrasting trends: the induction period for foil electrodes increased with temperature, while that of bulk electrodes decreased. Chemical analysis and polishing treatment comparisons showed no significant differences between the foil and bulk electrodes. However, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations of samples anodized at different temperatures, combined with Inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) analysis of dissolved electrode material, provided insights into the distinct anodic behaviors. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) studies further confirmed these findings, revealing a crystallographic orientation dependence of the anodic behavior. These results provide detailed information about the electrochemical properties of zinc electrodes, with implications for optimizing their performance in various applications. Full article
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18 pages, 1025 KiB  
Article
The Analysis of Three-Dimensional Time-Fractional Helmholtz Model Using a New İterative Method
by Yasin Şahin, Mehmet Merdan and Pınar Açıkgöz
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081219 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper proposes a novel analytical method to address the Helmholtz fractional differential equation by combining the Aboodh transform with the Adomian Decomposition Method, resulting in the Aboodh–Adomian Decomposition Method (A-ADM). Fractional differential equations offer a comprehensive framework for describing intricate physical processes, [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a novel analytical method to address the Helmholtz fractional differential equation by combining the Aboodh transform with the Adomian Decomposition Method, resulting in the Aboodh–Adomian Decomposition Method (A-ADM). Fractional differential equations offer a comprehensive framework for describing intricate physical processes, including memory effects and anomalous diffusion. This work employs the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivative, defined by a non-singular exponential kernel, to more precisely capture these non-local effects. The classical Helmholtz equation, pivotal in acoustics, electromagnetics, and quantum physics, is extended to the fractional domain. Following the exposition of fundamental concepts and characteristics of fractional calculus and the Aboodh transform, the suggested A-ADM is employed to derive the analytical solution of the fractional Helmholtz equation. The method’s validity and efficiency are evidenced by comparisons of analytical and approximation solutions. The findings validate that A-ADM is a proficient and methodical approach for addressing fractional differential equations that incorporate Caputo–Fabrizio derivatives. Full article
29 pages, 1132 KiB  
Article
Generating Realistic Synthetic Patient Cohorts: Enforcing Statistical Distributions, Correlations, and Logical Constraints
by Ahmad Nader Fasseeh, Rasha Ashmawy, Rok Hren, Kareem ElFass, Attila Imre, Bertalan Németh, Dávid Nagy, Balázs Nagy and Zoltán Vokó
Algorithms 2025, 18(8), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/a18080475 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Large, high-quality patient datasets are essential for applications like economic modeling and patient simulation. However, real-world data is often inaccessible or incomplete. Synthetic patient data offers an alternative, and current methods often fail to preserve clinical plausibility, real-world correlations, and logical consistency. This [...] Read more.
Large, high-quality patient datasets are essential for applications like economic modeling and patient simulation. However, real-world data is often inaccessible or incomplete. Synthetic patient data offers an alternative, and current methods often fail to preserve clinical plausibility, real-world correlations, and logical consistency. This study presents a patient cohort generator designed to produce realistic, statistically valid synthetic datasets. The generator uses predefined probability distributions and Cholesky decomposition to reflect real-world correlations. A dependency matrix handles variable relationships in the right order. Hard limits block unrealistic values, and binary variables are set using percentiles to match expected rates. Validation used two datasets, NHANES (2021–2023) and the Framingham Heart Study, evaluating cohort diversity (general, cardiac, low-dimensional), data sparsity (five correlation scenarios), and model performance (MSE, RMSE, R2, SSE, correlation plots). Results demonstrated strong alignment with real-world data in central tendency, dispersion, and correlation structures. Scenario A (empirical correlations) performed best (R2 = 86.8–99.6%, lowest SSE and MAE). Scenario B (physician-estimated correlations) also performed well, especially in a low-dimensions population (R2 = 80.7%). Scenario E (no correlation) performed worst. Overall, the proposed model provides a scalable, customizable solution for generating synthetic patient cohorts, supporting reliable simulations and research when real-world data is limited. While deep learning approaches have been proposed for this task, they require access to large-scale real datasets and offer limited control over statistical dependencies or clinical logic. Our approach addresses this gap. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Algorithms for Multidisciplinary Applications)
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13 pages, 1581 KiB  
Article
An Ultrasound-Guided Thoracolumbar Erector Spinae Plane Block: An Experimental Preliminary Study in Horses
by Francisco Medina-Bautista, Irene Nocera, Antonia Sánchez de Medina, Chiara Di Franco, Angela Briganti, Juan Morgaz and María del Mar Granados
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152264 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the ultrasound-guided thoracolumbar erector spinae plane (TL-ESP) block in standing horses. A total of 24 injections (n = 12) were performed at the L1 level using either 0.1 mL/kg [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the ultrasound-guided thoracolumbar erector spinae plane (TL-ESP) block in standing horses. A total of 24 injections (n = 12) were performed at the L1 level using either 0.1 mL/kg of saline solution (SS group) or 2% lidocaine (LID group). The block feasibility was assessed based on needle visualization and injection time, while efficacy was evaluated through craniocaudal and dorsoventral (DV) spread using the pinprick technique over 270 min. Desensitization was observed at least once in 100% of horses in the LID group and in 75% in the SS group (p = 0.001). However, in the SS group, desensitization was primarily limited to the Th18 metamer at the 2 cm DV position, with a shorter duration compared to the LID group. The block onset occurred at 22.5 (11.25–60) min in the LID group and at 5 (5–30) min in the SS group (p = 0.069). The number of affected metamers was significantly higher in the LID group (2 [1,2,3]) compared to the SS group (1 [1–2.25], p = 0.014). At the 2 cm DV point, the end of the block effect occurred at 135 (120–210) min in the LID group and at 60 (3.75–60) min in the SS group (p = 0.001). Needle visualization was excellent in 95.8% of cases, and the mean injection time was 2.5 (2–3) min. These findings confirm that the TL-ESP block is a feasible technique in standing horses. However, its effect is predominantly localized to dorsal dermatomes with a limited ventral spread. Future studies evaluating larger volumes and multiple injection sites are warranted to enhance its clinical applicability. Full article
30 pages, 1523 KiB  
Article
Modeling and Simulation of Attraction–Repulsion Chemotaxis Mechanism System with Competing Signal
by Anandan P. Aswathi, Amar Debbouche, Yadhavan Karuppusamy and Lingeshwaran Shangerganesh
Mathematics 2025, 13(15), 2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13152486 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper addresses an attraction–repulsion chemotaxis system governed by Neumann boundary conditions within a bounded domain ΩR3 that has a smooth boundary. The primary focus of the study is the chemotactic response of a species (cell population) to two competing [...] Read more.
This paper addresses an attraction–repulsion chemotaxis system governed by Neumann boundary conditions within a bounded domain ΩR3 that has a smooth boundary. The primary focus of the study is the chemotactic response of a species (cell population) to two competing signals. We establish the existence and uniqueness of a weak solution to the system by analyzing the solvability of an approximate problem and utilizing the Leray–Schauder fixed-point theorem. By deriving appropriate a priori estimates, we demonstrate that the solution of the approximate problem converges to a weak solution of the original system. Additionally, we conduct computational studies of the model using the finite element method. The accuracy of our numerical implementation is evaluated through error analysis and numerical convergence, followed by various numerical simulations in a two-dimensional domain to illustrate the dynamics of the system and validate the theoretical findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Numerical Analysis of Partial Differential Equations)
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31 pages, 2421 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Cooperative Operation of Multiple Microgrids Considering Green Certificates and Carbon Trading
by Xiaobin Xu, Jing Xia, Chong Hong, Pengfei Sun, Peng Xi and Jinchao Li
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4083; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154083 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
In the context of achieving low-carbon goals, building low-carbon energy systems is a crucial development direction and implementation pathway. Renewable energy is favored because of its clean characteristics, but the access may have an impact on the power grid. Microgrid technology provides an [...] Read more.
In the context of achieving low-carbon goals, building low-carbon energy systems is a crucial development direction and implementation pathway. Renewable energy is favored because of its clean characteristics, but the access may have an impact on the power grid. Microgrid technology provides an effective solution to this problem. Uncertainty exists in single microgrids, so multiple microgrids are introduced to improve system stability and robustness. Electric carbon trading and profit redistribution among multiple microgrids have been challenges. To promote energy commensurability among microgrids, expand the types of energy interactions, and improve the utilization rate of renewable energy, this paper proposes a cooperative operation optimization model of multi-microgrids based on the green certificate and carbon trading mechanism to promote local energy consumption and a low carbon economy. First, this paper introduces a carbon capture system (CCS) and power-to-gas (P2G) device in the microgrid and constructs a cogeneration operation model coupled with a power-to-gas carbon capture system. On this basis, a low-carbon operation model for multi-energy microgrids is proposed by combining the local carbon trading market, the stepped carbon trading mechanism, and the green certificate trading mechanism. Secondly, this paper establishes a cooperative game model for multiple microgrid electricity carbon trading based on the Nash negotiation theory after constructing the single microgrid model. Finally, the ADMM method and the asymmetric energy mapping contribution function are used for the solution. The case study uses a typical 24 h period as an example for the calculation. Case study analysis shows that, compared with the independent operation mode of microgrids, the total benefits of the entire system increased by 38,296.1 yuan and carbon emissions were reduced by 30,535 kg through the coordinated operation of electricity–carbon coupling. The arithmetic example verifies that the method proposed in this paper can effectively improve the economic benefits of each microgrid and reduce carbon emissions. Full article
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11 pages, 5112 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of a Porous TiNi3 Intermetallic Compound to Enhance Anti-Corrosion Performance in 1 M KOH
by Zhenli He, Yue Qiu, Yuehui He, Qian Zhao, Zhonghe Wang and Yao Jiang
Metals 2025, 15(8), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080865 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Porous intermetallic compounds have the properties of porous materials as well as a combination of covalent and metallic bonds, and they exhibit high porosity, structural stability, and corrosion resistance. In this work, a porous TiNi3 intermetallic compound was fabricated through reactive synthesis [...] Read more.
Porous intermetallic compounds have the properties of porous materials as well as a combination of covalent and metallic bonds, and they exhibit high porosity, structural stability, and corrosion resistance. In this work, a porous TiNi3 intermetallic compound was fabricated through reactive synthesis of elemental powders. Next, detailed studies of its phase composition and pore structure characteristics at different sintering temperatures, as well as its corrosion behavior against an alkaline environment, were carried out. The results show that the as-prepared porous TiNi3 intermetallic compound has abundant pore structures, with an open porosity of 56.5%, which can be attributed to a combination of the bridging effects of initial powder particles and the Kirkendall effect occurring during the sintering process. In 1 M KOH solution, a higher positive corrosion potential (−0.979 VSCE) and a lower corrosion current density (1.18 × 10−4 A∙cm−2) were exhibited by the porous TiNi3 intermetallic compound, compared to the porous Ni, reducing the thermodynamic corrosion tendency and the corrosion rate. The corresponding corrosion process is controlled by the charge transfer process, and the increased charge transfer resistance value (713.9 Ω⋅cm2) of TiNi3 makes it more difficult to charge-transfer than porous Ni (204.5 Ω⋅cm2), thus decreasing the rate of electrode reaction. The formation of a more stable passive film with the incorporation of Ti contributes to this improved corrosion resistance performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Ti-Based Alloys and Ti-Based Materials)
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18 pages, 12398 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Advertising Billboard Coverage in Urban Networks: A Population-Weighted Greedy Algorithm with Spatial Efficiency Enhancements
by Jiaying Fu and Kun Qin
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(8), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14080300 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
The strategic allocation of advertising billboards has become a critical aspect of urban planning and resource management. While previous studies have explored site selection based on road network and population data, they have often overlooked the diminishing marginal returns of overlapping coverage and [...] Read more.
The strategic allocation of advertising billboards has become a critical aspect of urban planning and resource management. While previous studies have explored site selection based on road network and population data, they have often overlooked the diminishing marginal returns of overlapping coverage and neglected to efficiently process large-scale urban datasets. To address these challenges, this study proposes two complementary optimization methods: an enhanced greedy algorithm based on geometric modeling and spatial acceleration techniques, and a reinforcement learning approach using Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO). The enhanced greedy algorithm incorporates population-weighted road coverage modeling, employs a geometric series to capture diminishing returns from overlapping coverage, and integrates spatial indexing and parallel computing to significantly improve scalability and solution quality in large urban networks. Meanwhile, the PPO-based method models billboard site selection as a sequential decision-making process in a dynamic environment, where agents adaptively learn optimal deployment strategies through reward signals, balancing coverage gains and redundancy penalties and effectively handling complex multi-step optimization tasks. Experiments conducted on Wuhan’s road network demonstrate that both methods effectively optimize population-weighted billboard coverage under budget constraints while enhancing spatial distribution balance. Quantitatively, the enhanced greedy algorithm improves coverage effectiveness by 18.6% compared to the baseline, while the PPO-based method further improves it by 4.3% with enhanced spatial equity. The proposed framework provides a robust and scalable decision-support tool for urban advertising infrastructure planning and resource allocation. Full article
21 pages, 3744 KiB  
Article
A First-Principles Modeling of the Elastic Properties and Generalized Stacking Fault Energy of Ir-W Solid Solution Alloys
by Pengwei Shi, Jianbo Ma, Fenggang Bian and Guolu Li
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3629; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153629 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Iridium, with its excellent high-temperature chemical inertness, is a preferred cladding material for radioisotope batteries. However, its inherent room-temperature brittleness severely restricts its application. In this research, pure Ir and six Ir-W solid solutions (Ir31W1 to Ir26W6 [...] Read more.
Iridium, with its excellent high-temperature chemical inertness, is a preferred cladding material for radioisotope batteries. However, its inherent room-temperature brittleness severely restricts its application. In this research, pure Ir and six Ir-W solid solutions (Ir31W1 to Ir26W6) were modeled. The effects of W on the elastic properties, generalized stacking fault energy, and bonding properties of Ir solid solution alloys were investigated by first-principles simulation, aiming to find a way to overcome the intrinsic brittleness of Ir. With the W concentration increasing from 0 to 18.75 at %, the calculated Cauchy pressure (C12C44) increases from −22 to 5 GPa, Pugh’s ratio (B/G) increases from 1.60 to 1.72, the intrinsic stacking fault energy reduces from 337.80 to 21.16 mJ/m2, and the unstable stacking fault energy reduces from 636.90 to 547.39 mJ/m2. According to these results, it is predicted that the addition of W improves the toughness of iridium alloys. The alloying of W weakens the covalency properties of the Ir-Ir bond (the ICOHP value increases from −0.8512 to −0.7923 eV). These phenomena result in a decrease in the energy barrier for grain slip. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
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19 pages, 584 KiB  
Review
Incorporation of E-Waste Plastics into Asphalt: A Review of the Materials, Methods, and Impacts
by Sepehr Mohammadi, Dongzhao Jin, Zhongda Liu and Zhanping You
Encyclopedia 2025, 5(3), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5030112 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive review of the environmentally friendly management and reutilization of electronic waste (e-waste) plastics in flexible pavement construction. The discussion begins with an overview of e-waste management challenges and outlines key recycling approaches for converting plastic waste into asphalt-compatible [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive review of the environmentally friendly management and reutilization of electronic waste (e-waste) plastics in flexible pavement construction. The discussion begins with an overview of e-waste management challenges and outlines key recycling approaches for converting plastic waste into asphalt-compatible materials. This review then discusses the types of e-waste plastics used for asphalt modification, their incorporation methods, and compatibility challenges. Physical and chemical treatment techniques, including the use of free radical initiators, are then explored for improving dispersion and performance. Additionally, in situations where advanced pretreatment methods are not applicable due to cost, safety, or technical constraints, the application of alternative approaches, such as the use of low-cost complementary additives, is discussed as a practical solution to enhance compatibility and performance. Finally, the influence of e-waste plastics on the conventional and rheological properties of asphalt binders, as well as the performance of asphalt mixtures, is also evaluated. Findings indicate that e-waste plastics, when combined with appropriate pretreatment methods and complementary additives, can enhance workability, cold-weather cracking resistance, high-temperature anti-rutting performance, and resistance against moisture-induced damage while also offering environmental and economic benefits. This review highlights the potential of e-waste plastics as sustainable asphalt modifiers and provides insights across the full utilization pathway, from recovery to in-field performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Ground and Air Transportation)
27 pages, 1948 KiB  
Article
Real-World Performance and Economic Evaluation of a Residential PV Battery Energy Storage System Under Variable Tariffs: A Polish Case Study
by Wojciech Goryl
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4090; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154090 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents an annual, real-world evaluation of the performance and economics of a residential photovoltaic (PV) system coupled with a battery energy storage system (BESS) in southern Poland. The system, monitored with 5 min resolution, operated under time-of-use (TOU) electricity tariffs. Seasonal [...] Read more.
This paper presents an annual, real-world evaluation of the performance and economics of a residential photovoltaic (PV) system coupled with a battery energy storage system (BESS) in southern Poland. The system, monitored with 5 min resolution, operated under time-of-use (TOU) electricity tariffs. Seasonal variation was significant; self-sufficiency exceeded 90% in summer, while winter conditions increased grid dependency. The hybrid system reduced electricity costs by over EUR 1400 annually, with battery operation optimized for high-tariff periods. Comparative analysis of three configurations—grid-only, PV-only, and PV + BESS—demonstrated the economic advantage of the integrated solution, with the shortest payback period (9.0 years) achieved with financial support. However, grid voltage instability during high PV production led to inverter shutdowns, highlighting limitations in the infrastructure. This study emphasizes the importance of tariff strategies, environmental conditions, and voltage control when designing residential PV-BESS systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design, Analysis and Operation of Renewable Energy Systems)
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