Advances in Low-Emission Combustion Technologies and Systems

Dear Colleagues,

The demand for energy is continuously increasing due to the need for heat and comfort within houses, for which we usually use methane gas or fossil fuels; electricity generation, which is still, in a word, combustion-based; industrial production, particularly in the energy sector, with many processes requiring huge amounts of heat obtained mainly from fuel combustion, as well as the metallurgy industry, petrochemical industry, building materials production, etc.; and transportation systems, for which there is a concentrated effort to use electricity increasingly more, which will increase the need for electricity production. Pollutants and greenhouse gases are often simultaneously emitted; thus, irreversible climate changes are becoming more active and destructive.

Improving combustion processes to meet the growing demand for thermal and electrical energy and reducing emissions can be achieved through the implementation of advanced technologies and innovative strategies. Some key directions in this regard are as follows:

• Heat Recovery: The use of heat recovery systems can enhance the efficiency of combustion processes. Residual heat can be recycled to heat other mediums or to power other processes. The use of waste/industrial heat is beneficial for trigeneration as well. Heat and cold generation are very much needed in a flexible and price affordable manner.
• Premixed Combustion: This technique involves the controlled mixing of fuel and oxidants before combustion, thereby reducing the formation of pollutants and increasing combustion efficiency. Also, several mechanisms for addressing pollutant generation can be enhanced

• Controlled Turbulence: Using technologies that control and optimize turbulence in the combustion chamber can improve fuel mixing and, consequently, combustion efficiency.
• Biogas and Biofuels: Substituting fossil fuels with biogas or biofuels can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as these are of renewable origin.
• Gas Filtration/Flue Gas Cleaning: Implementing efficient gas filtration systems can significantly reduce the emission of particles and gaseous pollutants into the atmosphere.
• Catalysts: Using catalysts in the combustion process can help convert pollutants into less harmful compounds.
• Advanced Monitoring Systems: Implementing advanced monitoring technologies can help identify and promptly address issues that may affect efficiency and emissions.
• Promotion of Responsible and Eco-friendly Energy Use: Educating and raising awareness among the public and industry about the impact of combustion processes and sustainable alternatives can stimulate behavioral changes and the adoption of cleaner technologies.
• Numerical Simulation of Processes: Phenomena such as air quality episodes, thermal mass and heat transfer, and air flow in diverse ventilation systems are all examples for which prediction and comparative situations can be generated.

Implementing these measures and strategies can significantly contribute to improving combustion processes, meeting the growing energy needs, and reducing the environmental impact.

The fundamental goal of this Special Issue is to stimulate the exchange of knowledge and experiences within the scientific community to foster sustainable technological development. Review and experimental articles are welcome. By bringing together significant contributions, we intend to catalyze constructive debate, where experts in the field can analyze and discuss the obtained results, identify the challenges, and explore future perspectives.

An essential aspect of this initiative is the focus on innovations that can contribute to improving combustion processes; energy efficiency; and, particularly, emission reduction. By gathering mentions, ideas, and innovative approaches, we expect to shape a holistic perspective on the future of combustion technologies, with a direct impact on environmental sustainability.

Contributions to this volume will serve as a reference point for researchers, providing them with an opportunity to showcase their work and to receive feedback from the scientific community. By encouraging transparency and collaboration, we aim to accelerate the pace of innovation and to facilitate the development of efficient and sustainable solutions for the energy needs of humanity.

In conclusion, "Advances in Low-Emission Combustion Technologies and Systems" represents a collective effort to consolidate our knowledge and to establish a solid foundation for future discoveries in the field of low-emission combustion technologies. Through this initiative, we seek to shape a more sustainable future, where thermal energy is obtained efficiently and in an environmentally friendly manner.

Prof. Dr. Ioana Ionel
Dr. Virgil Stoica
Guest Editors

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