Search Results (3,180)

The term SHIP (solar heat for industrial processes) or SHIPs (solar heat for industrial plants) refers to the use of collected solar radiation for meeting industrial heat demands, rather than for electricity generation. The global thermal capacity of SHIP systems at the end of 2024 stood slightly above 1 GWth, which is comparable to the electric power capacity of a single power station. Despite this relatively small presence, SHIP systems play an important role in rendering industrial processes sustainable. There are two aims in the current study. The first aim is to cover various types of SHIP systems based on the variety of their collector designs, operational temperatures, applications, radiation concentration options, and solar tracking options. SHIP designs can be as simple as unglazed solar collectors (USCs), having a stationary structure without any radiation concentration. On the other hand, SHIP designs can be as complicated as solar power towers (SPTs), having a two-axis solar tracking mechanism with point-focused concentration of the solar radiation. The second aim is to shed some light on the status of SHIP deployment globally, particularly in 2024. This includes a drop during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings of the current study show that more than 1300 SHIP systems were commissioned worldwide by the end of 2024 (cumulative number), constituting a cumulative thermal capacity of 1071.4 MWth, with a total collector area of 1,531,600 m². In 2024 alone, 120.3 MWth of thermal capacity was introduced in 106 SHIP systems having a total collector area of 171,874 m². In 2024, 65.9% of the installed global thermal capacity of SHIP systems belonged to the parabolic trough collectors (PTCs), and another 22% of this installed global thermal capacity was attributed to the unevacuated flat plate collectors (FPC-Us). Considering the 106 SHIP systems installed in 2024, the average collector area per system was 1621.4 m²/project. However, this area largely depends on the SHIP category, where it is much higher for parabolic trough collectors (37,740.5 m²/project) but lower for flat plate collectors (805.2 m²/project), and it is lowest for unglazed solar collectors (163.0 m²/project). The study anticipates large deployment in SHIP systems (particularly the PTC type) in 2026 in alignment with gigascale solar-steam utilization in alumina production. Several recommendations are provided with regard to the SHIP sector. Full article

This paper investigated the tunnel slags generated from a specific tunnel project to systematically assess their environmental risk through phase composition, chemical composition, acidification potential, and heavy metal speciation. Leaching experiments were conducted under various influencing factors, including particle size, time, liquid-to-solid ratio, pH, temperature. The release concentration of heavy metals from the tunnel slag particles follows the following order: Zn > Cu > Cr. This is primarily attributed to the preferential release of Zn under acidic conditions due to its high acid-soluble state, while Cr, which is predominantly present in the residual state, exhibits very low mobility. Furthermore, decreased particle sizes, increased liquid-to-solid ratios, elevated leaching temperatures, extended leaching times, and lower pH values can effectively promote the dissolution of heavy metals from the tunnel slag. The cumulative leaching curves of Cr, Cu, and Zn from the three types of tunnel slags conform to the Elovich equation (R² > 0.88), indicating that the release process of heavy metals is primarily controlled by diffusion mechanisms. The S- and Fe/Mg-rich characteristics of D3 confers a high acidification risk, accompanied by a rapid and persistent heavy metal release rate. In contrast, D2, which is influenced by the neutralizing effect of carbonate dissolution, releases heavy metals at a steady rate, while D1, which is dominated by inert minerals like quartz and muscovite, exhibits the slowest release rate. It is recommended that waste management engineering prioritize controlling S- and Fe/Mg-rich tunnel slags (D3) and mitigating risks of elements like Zn and Cu under acidic conditions. This study provides a scientific basis and technical support for the environmentally safe disposal and resource utilization of tunnel slag. Full article

Moringa oleifera, renowned for its medicinal potency, was investigated to discern the impact of varying storage temperatures (4 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C) and light conditions (dark and light) on the quality attributes of its leaf powder during a 12-month storage period. The study encompassed comprehensive analyses of phytochemical levels, nutritional properties, microbial contamination, and colour changes in response to these diverse storage environments. The lightness L* colour value changed significantly (40 to 60) from baseline tests when stored at 40 °C in transparent packaging. Results highlighted distinct variations in phytochemical composition and nutritional content based on the interplay between temperature and light conditions. Lower temperatures, particularly 4 °C, in both dark and light environments, demonstrated superior preservation of bioactive compounds, with mean values for quercetin-3-rutinoside of 3.34 µg/g and 3.19 µg/g, respectively; both are significantly higher compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). This trend was also observed for rutin, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin. Conversely, higher temperatures (25 °C, 40 °C) coupled with light exposure hastened degradation, notably impacting phytochemical stability. Microbial proliferation was evident in elevated temperatures, indicating potential safety risks. Further observations unveiled significant colour changes within the leaf powder, notably influenced by storage temperatures and light exposure. Lower temperatures exhibited diminished colour alterations compared to higher temperatures, underscoring their impact on product quality. This study underscores the critical role of controlled storage conditions, especially cooler temperatures and reduced light exposure, in maintaining the potency and quality of M. oleifera leaf powder. Recommendations advocate for stringent temperature control (preferably 4 °C) and light shielding during storage to uphold phytochemical stability and mitigate microbial proliferation. While this study provides valuable insights into temperature-mediated alterations, future research avenues should delve deeper into elucidating the underlying mechanisms of colour changes and long-term temperature effects on phytochemical and nutritional integrity. Full article

Transparent building envelopes significantly increase energy demands due to low thermal resistance and solar heat gain, while conventional double-skin facades may lead to overheating and high cooling loads in the summer. This study proposes a novel earth-to-air heat exchanger (EAHE)-assisted ventilated double-skin facade (VDSF) system utilizing low-grade shallow geothermal energy for year-round thermal regulation of transparent building envelopes. A numerical model of this coupled system was developed and validated to estimate the thermal performance of the EAHE-assisted VDSF system in a hot-summer-and-cold-winter climate. Parametric study was conducted to investigate the impact of some key design parameters on thermal performance of the EAHE-assisted VDSF system and further reveal recommended design parameters of this coupled system. The results indicate that the EAHE-VDSF system reduces annual accumulated cooling loads by 20.3% to 76.5% and heating loads by 19.6% to 47.1% in comparison to a conventional triple-glazed, non-ventilated facade. The cavity temperature of the VDSF decreases by 15 °C on average in the summer, effectively addressing the overheating issue in DSFs. The proposed coupled EAHE-VDSF system shows promising energy-saving potential and ensures stability and consistency in the thermal regulation of transparent building envelopes. Full article

Temperature-induced instability in early-age rheology poses a major challenge to the pumpability and application of robotic plastering mortars. This study systematically investigates the temperature-dependent effects of a high-viscosity (75,000 mPa·s) hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC) on the rheological properties and early microstructural evolution of mortars at 5 °C, 20 °C, and 40 °C. Mortars with HEMC dosages from 0 to 0.25 wt% were tested using rheological measurements, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and complementary microstructural analyses (XRD, FTIR, and SEM–EDS). Results show that HEMC reduced the initial static yield stress while monotonically increasing plastic viscosity, with the thickening effect more pronounced at higher temperatures. Notably, at 40 °C, the initial plastic viscosity of a 0.25% HEMC mix reached 14.4 Pa·s, a 133% increase compared to the control group. HEMC also effectively retarded the time-dependent increase in yield stress and stabilized plastic viscosity, thereby mitigating the adverse influence of elevated temperature. UPV confirmed that HEMC delayed microstructural formation, in agreement with the observed retardation of hydration reactions. At 40 °C, a 0.10% HEMC dosage postponed the percolation threshold from 67 min to 150 min, highlighting its strong retardation effect. Microstructural tests further revealed that HEMC delayed CH formation, refined C–S–H gels, and reduced the crystallinity of AFt, supporting the rheological and ultrasonic findings. A statistically significant, moderate-to-strong correlation (r = 0.88, R² = 0.77, p < 0.001) was established between static yield stress and UPV, indicating that macroscopic rheological resistance responds to microstructural evolution. Based on these results, the recommended HEMC dosages to achieve stable rheological performance are 0.05–0.10% at 5 °C, 0.10–0.15% at 20 °C, and 0.15–0.20% at 40 °C. Full article

This study investigates the influence of seasonal curing conditions on the compressive strength development of reinforced concrete, focusing on the gap between standard-cured cylinders and in situ structural performance. Concrete mixes with water-to-binder ratios of 0.35, 0.45, and 0.55 were cast under summer, autumn, and winter conditions. Large-scale specimens were instrumented to monitor the internal heat of hydration at center and outer regions, and 91-day core strengths were compared with 28-day standard-cured cylinders. Results revealed that seasonal temperature variations significantly affect hydration kinetics, producing thermal gradients that lead to spatial strength differences. Normal distribution analysis (₂₈S₉₁ values) was used to quantify strength deviations and derive correction factors. Outer-region cores consistently showed lower strengths, confirming them as conservative indicators for design. Based on μ + 2σ, correction factors of approximately 8 MPa are recommended for summer and winter conditions and 5 MPa for autumn, ensuring a conservative estimate of in situ strength. The proposed approach provides a rational, data-driven basis for mix design strength adjustments, improving the reliability of structural safety evaluations and supporting climate-responsive construction planning for durable and safe reinforced concrete structures. Full article

Potholes are typical scattered distresses on asphalt pavements, severely impairing traffic safety and pedestrian safety due to delayed repair time and secondary distress. Aiming to extend the service life of repaired potholes, this study develops a pothole repair technique characterized by repair materials with superior performance and adhesive materials with high bonding strength. Firstly, the mechanical analysis for repaired potholes was conducted via finite element simulation, and thereafter, corresponding technical measures were derived to prevent the recurrence of distress in repaired potholes. Secondly, according to the material composition of solvent-based cold-mix asphalt (SCMA) and emulsified-based cold-mix asphalt (ECMA), pavement performance testing methods were proposed to test and evaluate their forming strength, high-temperature stability, low-temperature crack resistance, and water stability. On this basis, interlayer shear tests, pull-out tests, and field pothole repair cases with varying repair materials and adhesive materials were conducted, and the interfacial bonding strengths with the old pavement were then compared to optimize the pothole re-pair technique. The results showed that (1) increasing the repair material modulus and interfacial friction coefficient reduces the pressure strain (σ_y) and pressure stress (ε_y), thereby decreasing the risk of secondary dis-tress; (2) ECMA exhibits superior pavement performance, with strength and rutting resistance 49.7%–64.6% higher than SCMA; (3) the combination of ECMA and WER-EA achieves the highest interfacial pull-out and shear strengths, with their values 76.7%–78.2% higher than SCMA+WER-EA); and (4) after 1 year of opening to traffic, potholes repaired with ECMA+WER-EA show minimal thickness loss of 0.2 cm and no aggregate peeling at the edges, thus being recommended as the optimal solution for repairing potholes. This study clarifies the secondary distress mechanism of repaired potholes and provides an optimal repair scheme (ECMA+WER-EA) for engineering applications. Full article

The main objective of the study is to evaluate the recovery potential of the collapsed semi-anadromous pikeperch population (Sander lucioperca L.) in the Azov Sea during 2021–2030. We use a Ricker-based age-structured model that accounts for the effects of salinity and temperature on reproduction. In earlier work, the model predicted and explained the pikeperch stock collapse as the consequence of salinity and temperature exceeding the species’ tolerance limits. To assess the probability of stock recovery, we conducted a long-term retrospective validation and ran Monte Carlo projections under alternative climate scenarios with supplemental management actions. The results confirm that the dynamics of the pikeperch population in the Azov Sea are essentially environment-driven and negatively impacted by the large positive anomalies in both water temperature and salinity. Simulations suggest that either a substantial and persistent artificial restocking of juvenile recruits, or mostly unlikely scenarios of simultaneous reduction in salinity and temperature combined with additional restocking can provide conditions for the stock restoration within the decade considered. Based on these projections, we recommend a suite of urgent restoration measures to create the conditions required for future stock recovery. Full article

Agriculture remains the backbone of many countries; it plays a pivotal role in shaping a country’s overall economy. Accurate prediction in agriculture practices, particularly crop recommendations, can greatly enhance productivity and resource management. IoT and AI technologies have great potential for enhancing precision farming; traditional machine learning (ML) and ensemble learning (EL) models rely primarily on the training data for predictions. When the training data is noisy or limited, these models can result in inaccurate or unrealistic predictions. These limitations are addressed by incorporating physical laws into the ML framework, thereby ensuring that the predictions remain physically plausible. In this study, we conducted a detailed analysis of ML and EL models, both with and without optimization, and compared their performance against a physics-informed ML model. In the proposed stacking physics-informed ML model, the optimal temperature and the pH for each crop (physics law) are provided as input during the training process in addition to the training data. The physics-informed model was trained to simultaneously satisfy two objectives: (1) fitting the data, and (2) adhering to the physics law. This was achieved by including a penalty term within its total loss function, forcing the model to make predictions that are both accurate and physically feasible. Our findings indicate that the proposed novel stacking physics-informed model achieved a highest accuracy of 99.50% when compared to ML and EL models with optimization. Full article

This study investigates the rheological, thermal, and microstructural performance of three novel high-elasticity polymer modifiers (HEMs) incorporated into asphalt binders. The modifiers were evaluated at their recommended dosages using a multi-scale framework combining rotational viscosity, dynamic shear rheometry (frequency sweeps, Cole-Cole plots, Black diagrams, and master curves), bending beam rheometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), fluorescence microscopy (FM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results show that HEM-B achieved the highest values of the superpave rutting parameter (G*/sinδ = 5.07 kPa unaged, 6.73 kPa aged), reflecting increased high-temperature stiffness but also higher viscosity, which may affect workability. HEM-C exhibited the lowest total enthalpy (1.18 W·g⁻¹) and a glass transition temperature of −7.7 °C, indicating improved thermal stability relative to other binders. HEM-A showed the greatest increase in fluorescent area (+85%) and the largest reduction in fluorescent number (−60%) compared with base asphalt, demonstrating more homogeneous phase dispersion despite higher enthalpy. Comparison with SBS confirmed that the novel HEMs not only meet but exceed conventional performance thresholds while revealing distinct modification mechanisms, dense cross-linking (HEM-B), functionalized thermoplastic compatibility (HEM-C), and epoxy-tackified network formation (HEM-A). These findings establish quantitative correlations between rheology, thermal stability, and microstructure, underscoring the importance of dosage, compatibility, and polymer network architecture. The study provides a mechanistic foundation for optimizing high-elasticity modifiers in asphalt binders and highlights future needs for dosage normalization and long-term aging evaluation. Full article

In this paper, superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) operation in the presence of a long-duration fault is presented. The SFCL device utilizes second-generation high-temperature superconducting (2G HTS) tapes, which exhibit zero resistance under normal operating conditions. When the current exceeds the critical threshold specific to the superconducting tape, then it undergoes a transition to a resistive state—a phenomenon known as quenching. As a consequence, this leads to introducing impedance into the circuit, effectively limiting the magnitude of the fault current. Additionally, this transition dissipates electrical energy as heat within the material. The generated energy corresponds to the product of the voltage drop across the quenched region and the current flowing through it during the fault duration. In specific configurations of the power system, it is expected that the SFCL should limit the fault current for an extended period of time. In such a situation, a certain amount of energy will be generated, and it must be verified that the tape loses its properties or parameters (e.g., lowering the critical current value) or is destroyed. Therefore, experimental tests of the tapes were conducted for various short-circuit current, voltage drop, and short-circuit duration values to assess the effect of the amount of generated energy on the 2G HTS tape. Additionally, recommendations are presented on how to protect the SFCL during long-lasting short circuits. Full article

Today, hydrogen is already widely regarded as up-and-coming source of energy. It is essential to meet energy needs while reducing environmental pollution, since it has a high energy capacity and does not emit carbon oxide when burned. However, for the widespread application of hydrogen energy, it is necessary to search new technical solutions for both its production and storage. A promising effective and cost-efficient method of hydrogen generation and storage can be the use of solid materials, including nanomaterials in which chemical or physical adsorption of hydrogen occurs. Focusing on the recommendations of the DOE, the search is underway for materials with high gravimetric capacity more than 6.5% wt% and in which sorption and release of hydrogen occurs at temperatures from −20 to +100 °C and normal pressure. This review aims to summarize research on hydrogen generation and storage using silicon nanostructures and silicon composites. Hydrogen generation has been observed in Si nanoparticles, porous Si, and Si nanowires. Regardless of their size and surface chemistry, the silicon nanocrystals interact with water/alcohol solutions, resulting in their complete oxidation, the hydrolysis of water, and the generation of hydrogen. In addition, porous Si nanostructures exhibit a large internal specific surface area covered by SiH_x bonds. A key advantage of porous Si nanostructures is their ability to release molecular hydrogen through the thermal decomposition of SiHx groups or in interaction with water/alkali. The review also covers simulations and theoretical modeling of H₂ generation and storage in silicon nanostructures. Using hydrogen with fuel cells could replace Li-ion batteries in drones and mobile gadgets as more efficient. Finally, some recent applications, including the potential use of Si-based agents as hydrogen sources to address issues associated with new approaches for antioxidative therapy. Hydrogen acts as a powerful antioxidant, specifically targeting harmful ROS such as hydroxyl radicals. Antioxidant therapy using hydrogen (often termed hydrogen medicine) has shown promise in alleviating the pathology of various diseases, including brain ischemia–reperfusion injury, Parkinson’s disease, and hepatitis. Full article

Sea turtles, particularly the opportunistic feeder species loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), are increasingly reported as a source of disturbance to mussel farming operations, especially in the Adriatic Sea. Despite the evident damage caused by these interactions, comprehensive national data on the phenomenon are still lacking. This study aimed to address this gap through a survey conducted among Italian mussel farmers, combined with the analysis of gastrointestinal contents from stranded sea turtles along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts, focusing on the ingestion of Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Survey results revealed frequent turtle sightings in the northern Adriatic (Veneto and Emilia-Romagna) during summer months (June to August), while southern regions (Molise and Puglia) reported more sightings in autumn (September to October), likely influenced by seasonal water temperatures. The Mediterranean mussel was identified as the most commonly ingested mollusk in the Adriatic, with a notable increase in presence from 2018 to 2021. Although mussels are not a targeted prey, they appear to be a consistent dietary component due to adaptive feeding behavior. These interactions are increasingly and consistently reported, leading to significant management challenges for mussel farms. Based on these findings, a broader national and international assessment is recommended to evaluate the overall impact of sea turtles on shellfish aquaculture in the Mediterranean. Full article

Wild orchids, valued for their beauty and economic importance, are facing the challenges of distribution contraction and range shifts from climate change. The rare Cymbidium cyperifolium (class II in the List of National Key Protected Wild Plants in China, Vulnerable on the China Biodiversity Red List) remains understudied regarding its responses to climate variability. Utilizing an enhanced MaxEnt model, we predicted suitable habitats under diverse climate scenarios, revealing a potential distribution of 52.37 × 10⁴ km², concentrated in eastern Yunnan, western Guangxi, the Guizhou border, and southern Hainan. Cymbidium cyperifolium is sensitive to climate change, and temperature annual range (Bio 7) contributes a significant 77.42% of the distribution probability (i.e., habitat suitability), highlighting temperature’s pivotal influence on its distribution. Although the overall potential distribution area and low-suitability regions in China are predicted to decrease, medium and high-suitability areas are expected to expand. The center of mass of the high-altitude habitat is concentrated in southeastern Yunnan Province, migrating just slightly, yet tending westward and northeastward. Based on these findings, we recommend the expansion of existing protected areas or the establishment of new ones for C. cyperifolium, particularly in eastern Yunnan and western Guangxi. Additionally, our research can serve as a reference for the ex situ conservation of C. cyperifolium and other orchids with similar ecological habits, underscoring the broader implications in biodiversity preservation efforts. Full article

EPS module buildings are prefabricated, low-rise systems with high thermal insulation that are widely used in rural self-built houses in northern China, yet their indoor thermal environments often suffer from instability. This study experimentally verified the effectiveness of microcapsule phase change mortar (PCM plaster) in improving winter indoor temperatures of EPS module houses. In addition, based on simulation data from 350 design combinations across five representative cold-climate cities and four envelope design variables, the study provides quantitative design guidance for EPS module walls and PCM plaster in rural houses, offering a practical approach to improve indoor thermal stability that has not been previously reported. The main findings are as follows: (1) The thermal transmittance of EPS module walls is the dominant factor influencing indoor thermal performance. For climate adaptability, Type II walls are recommended for severely cold regions, while Type I walls are suitable for cold regions. The application of PCM plaster is not recommended in solar-rich cold regions such as Lhasa due to limited effectiveness. (2) Optimal PCM plaster parameters exist, with the phase change temperature recommended to be 2–4 °C higher than the average indoor operative temperature during the heating period. Specifically, 18 °C is optimal for Type I walls in Yinchuan, Beijing, and Dalian, while 15 °C is more appropriate for Type II walls in Shenyang and Harbin. The corresponding optimal thicknesses are 20 mm for Harbin, Shenyang, and Dalian; 30 mm for Yinchuan; and 40 mm for Beijing, achieving a balance between indoor temperature improvement and construction cost. (3) Operative temperature and discomfort hours are introduced to assess indoor thermal stability, especially in buildings with interior PCM plaster. Full article