New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization

Abstract submission deadline

3 March 2026

Manuscript submission deadline

30 April 2026

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Increasingly tighter regulations regarding organic waste and the ever higher demand for renewable chemicals and fuels due to exponential population growth, industrialization and climate change render the management of waste resources to meet global demand more and more challenging. Wastewater, waste plastic, waste food, agricultural waste and carbon dioxide are only a few examples from the field of waste that require effective strategies for their management and valorization to improve cost-effectiveness and meet customers’ demands. The development of environmentally sound, innovative strategies to process waste from different industrial origins is an area of increasing importance in current research. There are two ways to deal with waste generation: the principles and strategies of the circular economy and sustainable development. Much research has been carried out on disposing and decomposing waste as well as on valorization using novel technologies to generate valuable products such as fuels and useful organic chemicals (via biorefinery or white biotechnology). This Topic, titled “New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization", will collect original research papers, reviews and short communications reflecting the state of the art and future applications in this field, with particular emphasis on their application at both laboratory and industrial scales. 

Dr. Antonella Angelini
Dr. Carlo Pastore
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Catalysts catalysts	3.8	6.8	2011	13.9 Days	CHF 2200	Submit
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Processes processes	2.8	5.1	2013	14.9 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Waste waste	-	-	2023	34.1 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
Water water	3.0	5.8	2009	17.5 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Molecules molecules	4.2	7.4	1996	15.1 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Nanomaterials nanomaterials	4.4	8.5	2010	14.1 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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All Catalysts Energies Processes Sustainability Waste Water Molecules Nanomaterials

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14 pages, 3693 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Multifaceted Surface Analysis of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash by Water Repellent Treatment with Fatty Acid

by Taiga Kaseda, Hibiki Shirata and Yuya Koike

Waste 2024, 2(4), 520-533; https://doi.org/10.3390/waste2040028 - 19 Dec 2024

Viewed by 743

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to conduct a multifaceted surface analysis of water repellent-treated municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash to determine the suppression mechanism of fatty acid elution. The surface of water repellent-treated MSWI fly ash was analyzed using scanning electron [...] Read more.

In this study, we aimed to conduct a multifaceted surface analysis of water repellent-treated municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash to determine the suppression mechanism of fatty acid elution. The surface of water repellent-treated MSWI fly ash was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analyses. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the absence of needle-shaped crystals but distinct particle agglomeration in the water repellent-treated fly ash. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the water repellent treatment caused fatty acids to form esters with aluminosilicates in the MSWI fly ash. Crystalline phase analysis of the water repellent-treated fly ash before and after the leaching test via X-ray diffraction revealed the presence of fatty acids on the fly ash surface and retention of the fatty acid coating. Overall, the multifaceted surface analysis revealed that water repellent treatment suppressed heavy metal elution by covering the surface of MSWI fly ash with hydrophobic groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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13 pages, 1681 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Comparison Among Thermal Pre-Treatments’ Effectiveness in Increasing Anaerobic Digestibility of Organic Fraction in Municipal Solid Wastes

by Marco De Sanctis, Valerio Guido Altieri, Emanuele Barca, Luigi di Bitonto, Francesco Tedeschi and Claudio Di Iaconi

Energies 2024, 17(24), 6293; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17246293 - 13 Dec 2024

Viewed by 714

Abstract

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) is widely recognized as a possible substrate for anaerobic digestion processes. However, the heterogeneity of this matrix and the presence of slowly biodegradable compounds can slow down anaerobic digestion and reduce its performance. This study [...] Read more.

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) is widely recognized as a possible substrate for anaerobic digestion processes. However, the heterogeneity of this matrix and the presence of slowly biodegradable compounds can slow down anaerobic digestion and reduce its performance. This study compares the effectiveness of different thermal pre-treatments in increasing OFMSW anaerobic digestibility. Thermal pre-treatments were compared with OFMSW shredding, considered as the minimum pre-treatment required in order to reduce particles size of the OFMSW. The pre-treatments were performed in autoclave (121 °C and 1.4 bar for 20 min) or in an ad hoc hydrolysis reactor designed for the experimental trial (140 °C and 7 bar for 30 min) with air or nitrogen as gas phase. The thermal pre-treatments affected methane yield (NmLCH₄/gVS), depending on the pre-treatment strategy, with autoclaving allowing for an 80% increase with respect to the control run, and leading to a methane yield of 476 ± 194 NmL_CH4/gVS. The pre-treatments in the hydrolysis reactor caused a loss of organic matter (due to its volatilization) reducing the organic loading rate of the digester. Nevertheless, the digester performance in terms of COD (chemical oxygen demand) and VSS (volatile suspended solid) removal showed limited differences among the pre-treatments applied and ranged on average 79–94%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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25 pages, 7548 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Impact of Biomass/Water Ratio, Particle Size, Stirring, and Catalysts on the Production of Chemical Platforms and Biochar in the Hydrothermal Valorization of Coffee Cherry Waste

by Alejandra Sophia Lozano Pérez, Valentina Romero Mahecha and Carlos Alberto Guerrero Fajardo

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7415; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177415 - 28 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1494

Abstract

In Colombia alone, 12.6 million bags of green coffee are produced, but at the same time, 784,000 tons of waste biomass are dumped in open fields, of which only 5% is recovered or used, and 10 million tonnes of coffee emit 28.6 million [...] Read more.

In Colombia alone, 12.6 million bags of green coffee are produced, but at the same time, 784,000 tons of waste biomass are dumped in open fields, of which only 5% is recovered or used, and 10 million tonnes of coffee emit 28.6 million tonnes of CO₂ eq annually. This presents a worrying dilemma, and the need to develop a technology to transform the waste into usable products is increasing. As a response to this, the valorization of coffee waste was explored through the production of biochar and platform chemicals by implementing a set of hydrothermal experiments with different biomass/water ratios (1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:40), particle sizes (0.5, 1, 2, 5 mm), stirring rates (5000 and 8000 rpm), and catalysts (H₂SO₄, NaHCO₃ and CH₃COOH) at 180, 220, and 260 °C in a batch reactor with autogenous pressure. Notably, the smaller B:W ratios of 1:20 and 1:40, as well as smaller particle sizes of 0.5 and 1 mm, yielded higher amounts of platform chemicals, while stirring showed minimal influence. CH₃COOH significantly enhanced the process compared to other catalysts. The biochar was characterized as anthracite, and this obtaining of coal-like materials from biomass itself represents a remarkable feat. Said anthracite presented little to no variation in physical parameters, while catalysts induced functionalization. By optimizing factors like B:W ratio, particle size, and catalyst application, valuable insights have been gained into enhancing the yield of platform chemicals and quality of biochar from coffee waste. The findings not only contribute to sustainable waste management practices but also highlight the importance of exploring innovative solutions for utilizing agricultural by-products effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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25 pages, 6555 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Pea Pod Valorization: Exploring the Influence of Biomass/Water Ratio, Particle Size, Stirring, and Catalysts on Chemical Platforms and Biochar Production

by Daniel Esteban Galvis Sandoval, Alejandra Sophia Lozano Pérez and Carlos Alberto Guerrero Fajardo

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7352; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177352 - 27 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1274

Abstract

This study delves into the valorization of pea pod waste using hydrothermal processes, focusing on optimizing key parameters such as temperature, biomass-to-water ratio, particle size, and catalyst influence. Noteworthy findings include the significant impact of temperature variations on product yields, with 180 °C [...] Read more.

This study delves into the valorization of pea pod waste using hydrothermal processes, focusing on optimizing key parameters such as temperature, biomass-to-water ratio, particle size, and catalyst influence. Noteworthy findings include the significant impact of temperature variations on product yields, with 180 °C favoring sugars, HMF, and furfural, while 220 °C and 260 °C lead to distinct platform chemical productions. The utilization of a 1:20 biomass-to-water ratio consistently enhances yields by 10%, underscoring its importance in promoting efficient hydrolysis without excessive product degradation. Furthermore, the investigation into particle size reveals that smaller dimensions, particularly 1 mm particles, improved heat and mass transfer, reduced diffusion barriers, and enhanced digestibility, ultimately boosting overall efficiency in platform chemical production. Moreover, the study sheds light on the role of catalysts in the hydrothermal processes, showcasing the differential impact of acid and basic catalysts on product yields. Acid catalysts demonstrate a notable increase of up to 135.5% in the production of platform chemicals, emphasizing their crucial role in enhancing reaction efficiency. The complex relationship between agitation, temperature, and product formation is elucidated, with experiments revealing varying outcomes based on the presence or absence of agitation at different temperatures. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing pea pod waste valorization, offering a pathway towards sustainable and efficient conversion of agricultural residues into valuable platform chemicals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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22 pages, 24569 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Novel Transition Metal Loaded Hydrochar Catalyst Synthesized from Waste Biomass (Rice Husk) and Its Application in Biodiesel Production Using Waste Cooking Oil (WCO)

by Laraib Aamir Khan, Rabia Liaquat, Mohammed Aman, Mohammad Kanan, Muhammad Saleem, Asif Hussain khoja, Ali Bahadar and Waqar Ul Habib Khan

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7275; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177275 - 23 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1933

Abstract

The decarbonization of transportation plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change, and biodiesel has emerged as a promising solution due to its renewable and eco-friendly nature. However, in order to maintain the momentum of the “green trend” and ensure energy security, an [...] Read more.

The decarbonization of transportation plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change, and biodiesel has emerged as a promising solution due to its renewable and eco-friendly nature. However, in order to maintain the momentum of the “green trend” and ensure energy security, an ecologically friendly pathway is important to produce efficient biodiesel. In this work, activated carbon (AC) obtained from rice husk (RH) is hydrothermally prepared and modified through cobalt transition metal for catalyst support for the transesterification process. The physicochemical characteristics of the synthesized catalysts are examined using XRD, FTIR, SEM and EDS, TGA, and BET, while the produced biodiesel is also characterized using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). To optimize the transesterification process, Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) are produced by the conversion of waste cooking oil. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is used to validate temperature (75 °C), the methanol-to-oil molar ratio (1:9), catalyst weight percentage (2 wt.%), and retention time (52.5 min). The highest conversion rate of waste cooking oil (WCO) to biodiesel was recorded at 96.3% and tested as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Based on the results, it is clear that cobalt-loaded rice husk-based green catalyst (RHAC-Co) enhanced catalytic activity and yield for biodiesel production. Further research should focus on engine performance evaluation and scaling up of the catalyst by optimizing it for the industrial scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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17 pages, 24095 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nozzle Quantity on the Flow Field Characteristics and Grinding Efficiency in a Steam Jet Mill

by Shenglong Huang, Yulu Zhang, Xixi Yin, Mingxing Zhang, Hong Li, Zhe Wang, Haiyan Chen and Huan Wang

Processes 2024, 12(7), 1500; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12071500 - 17 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1381

Abstract

A steam jet mill (SJM), which employs industrial waste heat steam as a gas source, is a widely utilized apparatus for the pulverization of fly ash. To achieve elevated single-machine grinding capacity, efficiency improvement research based on structural optimization should be conducted. In [...] Read more.

A steam jet mill (SJM), which employs industrial waste heat steam as a gas source, is a widely utilized apparatus for the pulverization of fly ash. To achieve elevated single-machine grinding capacity, efficiency improvement research based on structural optimization should be conducted. In this study, numerical simulations and industrial experiments are carried out on SJMs equipped with three and six nozzles (hereinafter referred to as N3 and N6, respectively) to study the influence of nozzle quantity on the flow field and grinding efficiency. The numerical simulation results indicate that, under the N3 structure, particles can achieve a higher impact velocity in the comminution area and improve the kinetic energy of a single impact. In the conveying area, the airflow diffusion is better, resulting in an upward flow field that is more uniform. The classification area shows an increase in the uniformity of the flow field and a significant reduction in the local vortex structure, which is beneficial for accurate particle classification. In the interim, industrial experiments demonstrate that the N3 structure can markedly enhance the processing capacity and energy efficiency of the system. The smaller the feed particle size, the more pronounced the efficiency improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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12 pages, 13784 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Photoluminescence of Plasma-Treated Recycled Glass Particles

by Zdeněk Remeš, Oleg Babčenko, Vítězslav Jarý and Klára Beranová

Nanomaterials 2024, 14(13), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14131091 - 25 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1762

Abstract

Recycled soda-lime glass powder is a sustainable material that is also often considered a filler in cement-based composites. The changes in the surface properties of the glass particles due to the treatments were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and optical spectroscopy. We [...] Read more.

Recycled soda-lime glass powder is a sustainable material that is also often considered a filler in cement-based composites. The changes in the surface properties of the glass particles due to the treatments were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and optical spectroscopy. We have found that there is a relatively high level of carbon contamination on the surface of the glass particles (around 30 at.%), so plasma technology and thermal annealing were tested for surface cleaning. Room temperature plasma treatment was not sufficient to remove the carbon contamination from the surface of the recycled glass particles. Instead, the room temperature plasma treatment of recycled soda-lime glass particles leads to a significant enhancement in their room temperature photoluminescence (PL) by increasing the intensity and accelerating the decay of the photoluminescence. The enhanced blue PL after room-temperature plasma treatment was attributed to the presence of carbon contamination on the glass surface and associated charge surface and interfacial defects and interfacial states. Therefore, we propose blue photoluminescence under UV LED as a fast and inexpensive method to indicate carbon contamination on the surface of glass particles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Research on Waste Treatment, Disposal and Valorization)

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