Publikační činnost Výzkumného energetického centra / Publications of Energy Research Centre (9340)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/10084/76283

Kolekce obsahuje bibliografické záznamy publikační činnosti (článků) akademických pracovníků Výzkumného energetického centra (9340) v časopisech registrovaných ve Web of Science od roku 2003 po současnost.
Do kolekce jsou zařazeny:
a) publikace, u nichž je v originálních dokumentech jako působiště autora (adresa) uvedena Vysoká škola báňská-Technická univerzita Ostrava (VŠB-TUO),
b) publikace, u nichž v originálních dokumentech není v adrese VŠB-TUO uvedena, ale autoři prokazatelně v době jejich zpracování a uveřejnění působili na VŠB-TUO.

Bibliografické záznamy byly původně vytvořeny v kolekci Publikační činnost akademických pracovníků VŠB-TUO, která sleduje publikování akademických pracovníků od roku 1990.

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Now showing 1 - 20 out of 107 results

Bioethanol burner operating parameters optimization: Effects of burner opening area modulation on heat output and flue gas composition
(Elsevier, 2024) Ryšavý, Jiří; Jaroch, Miroslav; Horák, Jiří; Krpec, Kamil; Molchanov, Oleksandr; Bury, Marcelina; Kuo, Jenn-Kun
Bioethanol burners are significantly expanding devices in Europe, still considered preferably as the design element while its possible importance in the energy system of the household used to be neglected. The aim of this study was to determine the operating techno-environmental parameters as the heat output and the flue gas composition of the bioethanol fireplace with vortex flame. The measurement methodology was based on actual valid standard EN 16647 Fireplaces for Liquid Fuel. In general, three ethanol-based fuels were tested in combination with one bioethanol burner equipped with different regulation rings changing burner opening area. The average reached heat energy output ranged between 3.97 and 2.22 kW with maximal burner opening area (without the usage of regulation rings) for different fuels. By usage of the regulation rings, the heat energy output was reduced to 35 - 40 % of the nominal average heat output. Simultaneously the time of the burning of one fuel dose can be increased by regulation ring usage up to 195 % of the combustion time without the regulation ring. By placing the regulation rings on the burner bowl opening area, the flue gas composition was affected positively in terms of CO and negatively in terms of NOx.
Pyrolysis solid product as a sorbent for flue gases mercury capture - Part I: Sorbent formation and characteristics
(Elsevier, 2024) Jadlovec, Marek; Honus, Stanislav; Čespiva, Jakub
This study investigates the pyrolysis of various materials (solid recovered fuel, digestate, hay pellets, straw, polyethylene, and tires) at temperatures ranging from 350 to 650 degrees C, with retention times between 90 and 190 minutes and a heating rate of 10 degrees C center dot min-1. Its focus is on utilizing pyrolysis residue-char as a sorbent for mercury capture from flue gas during conventional fuel combustion. Physical and chemical activation techniques employing NaOH as an oxidizing agent are used to enhance surface area and pore volume. Characterization techniques, including thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and various analyses, are employed. Results indicate solid fraction recoveries of 77%wt. for solid recovered fuel, 58%wt. for tires, and 48%wt. for straw, with average recoveries of 47%wt. solid, 18.7%wt. gaseous, and 34.3%wt. liquid fractions. After applying the activation processes, the results reveal that the most suitable sorbent is the straw sample, where the specific surface area and pore volume are 148.95 m2 center dot g-1 and 0.0569 cm3 center dot g-1 after physical activation and 640.98 m2 center dot g-1 and 0.2867 cm3 center dot g-1 after chemical activation, respectively. These findings suggest promising applications for pyrolysis char as sorbents, with significant improvements achieved through activation methods. The application of the developed sorbents for mercury capture in a real flue gas environment is closely investigated in Part II of this study.
Numerical and experimental study of inverse natural convection heat transfer for heat sink in a cavity with phase change material
(Elsevier, 2024) Chen, Han-Taw; Zhang, Ri-Xin; Yan, Wei-Mon; Amani, Mohammad; Ochodek, Tadeáš
This study examines the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of rectangular fins positioned within a square cavity through the use of the inverse three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, experimental analysis, and the constant heat transfer rate assumption. This paper proposes a heat sink that uses a phase change material (PCM) made of paraffin within a small cavity. The inverse CFD method, combined with the least squares method, root mean square error, and excessive experimental data, is adopted to predict the unknown heat transfer rate Q and absorption heat Qab. One of the objectives of this study is to investigate the effect of the PCM heat sink on fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics within a cavity. A sequence of tests on various flow models indicates that employing the RNG k-epsilon turbulence model with the standard wall function is the most suitable choice for all scenarios in the three-fin model. Conversely, the zero-equation model proved to be a more adequate fit for the PCM heat sink. Another objective of this study is to study the effect of the height of the PCM heat sink on Q and Qab. The incorporation of a PCM heat sink results in a further improvement in the efficiency of heat dissipation. Part of the heat created is absorbed by the PCM heat sink, which absorbs 22.5 % of the thermal energy. Under the same volume, the PCM heat sink with a lower height (Hp = 0.012 m) absorbs 14 % more heat compared to Hp = 0.02 m. Thus, a lower-height PCM heat sink has a better heat dissipation effect.
Reducing the impact of biomass combustion in residential units on local air quality by using innovative low-loading Pt-based heterogeneous catalyst
(Elsevier, 2024) Ryšavý, Jiří; Vicente, Estela Alexandra Domingos; Jaroch, Miroslav; Alves, Celia A.; de la Campa, Ana Sanchez; Horák, Jiří
There are several published studies evaluating the potential of platinum and palladium-based catalysts for real flue gas purification, however, the need to reduce the mass fraction of precious metals and the effect of this process is often neglected. This study aimed to assess the influence of two catalysts on the overall flue gas composition formed during combustion in a pellet burner operated to mimic the operation of a real wood log stove. Commercial Pt–Pd-based (CAT A) and Pt-based (CAT B) catalysts with innovative sol-gel coatings and a reduced amount of active substance were used. The CO, OGC and PM conversion rates of CAT A reached 87.8%, 37.0% and 25.2%, while the removal efficiency of CAT B reached 85.8%, 37.8% and 18.8%, respectively. The decrease of organic carbon by the catalysts ranged from 28% to 49% in the case of CAT A and from 13% to 60% in the case of Cat B. The concentrations of PAHs emitted seem to indicate a less carcinogenic composition when catalytic converters are used than without these flue gas treatment units.
Investigating the potential of a waste-derived additive for enhancing coal combustion efficiency and environmental sustainability in a circular economy
(Elsevier, 2024) Czajka, Krzysztof; Krochmalny, Krystian; Kisiela-Czajka, Anna; Ostrycharczyk, Michał; Czerep, Michał; Tkaczuk-Serafin, Monika; Baranowski, Marcin; Niedźwiecki, Łukasz; Pawlak-Kruczek, Halina; Jóźwiak, Kamila; Holovko-Kamoshenkova, Oksana M.; Provalov, Oleksii; Cherniavskyi, Mykola
This study examines the impact of a waste-derived additive from alumina and shale oil production on the performance of coal combustion. The effects of individual additive components were investigated under oxidant-limited and oxidizing conditions using the isothermal flow reactor (IFR) equipped with gas analysers. The raw materials, as well as fly chars/ashes derived from the IFR, were characterized using standard physicochemical analysis, oxide analysis, oxygen functional group determination, the ash fusion test, thermogravimetry, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Results from experiments conducted under oxidant-limited conditions demonstrated that the analysed additive, at a 1% share, increased hydrogen content in char by over 3.5 times (from 600 ppm to 2160 ppm) and enhanced methane conversion by nearly 20%. Under oxidizing conditions, the additive reduced unburned carbon loss by approximately 50%, emissions of NOx from 400-460 ppm to 340–390 ppm and SO2 from 1410-1475 ppm to 1325–1410 ppm. The study emphasized the influence of moisture on thermochemical processes, confirming that a certain amount of water vapour accelerates the conversion of H2, SO2, and NOX. The analysis supported the commercial utilization of the additive from economic, environmental, and operational standpoints.
Parameters affecting the explosion characteristics of hybrid mixtures arising from the use of alternative energy sources
(MDPI, 2024) Helegda, Matouš; Pokorný, Jiří; Helegda, Iris; Skřínský, Jan; Sinay, Juraj
Explosions of hybrid mixtures are an interesting theoretical and experimental problem in explosion sciences, because they combine the physicochemical properties of flammable gases and dusts. A hybrid mixture is composed of at least two substances in two or more states. The influence of the common presence of flammable gas on the explosiveness parameters of the combustible dust itself is proven. In this study, we present the effect of higher initiation temperatures, different initial sources of initiation with different energies, and the effect of the volume of explosion chambers on the explosions of hybrid mixtures arising from the use of alternative energy sources. The experiments were carried out in 20 L and 1.00 m3 explosion chambers (according to EN 14034-1+A1:2011–EN 14034-4+A1:2011). The accredited method of the Energy Research Centre, VSB-TU Ostrava, for tests was used. The goal is to approximate the behaviour of these systems under different initiation conditions so that it is possible to avoid excessively conservative or overly optimistic results, which then affect the determination of explosion parameters for practical use. It was found that the volume of the explosion chambers in combination with the used initiation source has a fundamental influence on the course of the explosion characteristics.
Combined control of PM and NOx emissions by corona discharge
(Elsevier, 2024) Molchanov, Oleksandr; Krpec, Kamil; Horák, Jiří; Kuboňová, Lenka; Hopan, František; Ryšavý, Jiří
This work investigates the potential of corona discharge to control particulate matter and NOx emissions from small-scale biomass combustion. The electrostatic precipitator (ESP) was designed and used to suppress emissions from a 15 -kW heating unit. The ESP was operated at different power modes at both polarities and demonstrated the capability to reduce NOx emissions with a removal efficiency of 78 % while PM concentration was reduced to a magnitude of particle content in ambient air. The efficiency of ESP was evaluated considering the technological parameters, namely the reduced electric field, Nt-product, and specific input energy. The growth in NOx abatement was observed when the energy input exceeded 1 J/L for both polarities and Nt-product exceeded 4.5 x 108 s/cm3/1 x 109 s/cm3 for negative/positive corona. The results of this work may contribute to understanding the processes in corona discharge and optimising corona discharge systems for various applications.
Co-gasification of pistachio shells with wood pellets in a semi-industrial hybrid cross/updraft reactor for producer gas and biochar production
(MDPI, 2024) Ryšavý, Jiří; Čespiva, Jakub; Kuboňová, Lenka; Dej, Milan; Szramowiat-Sala, Katarzyna; Molchanov, Oleksandr; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz; Yan, Wei-Mon; Thangavel, Sangeetha
The possibilities of pistachio shell biochar production on laboratory-scale gasification and pyrolysis devices have been described by several previous studies. Nevertheless, the broader results of the pistachio shell co-gasification process on pilot-scale units have not yet been properly investigated or reported, especially regarding the detailed description of the biochar acquired during the routine operation. The biochar was analysed using several analytical techniques, such as ultimate and proximate analysis (62%wt of C), acid-base properties analysis (pH 9.52), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (the presence of -OH bonds and identification of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin), Raman spectroscopy (no determination of Id/Ig ratio due to high fluorescence), and nitrogen physisorption (specific surface 50.895 m2 center dot g-1). X-ray fluorescence analysis exhibited the composition of the main compounds in the biochar ash (32.5%wt of Cl and 40.02%wt of Na2O). From the energy generation point of view, the lower heating value of the producer gas achieved 6.53 MJ center dot m-3 during the co-gasification. The relatively high lower heating value of the producer gas was mainly due to the significant volume fractions of CO (6.5%vol.), CH4 (14.2%vol.), and H2 (4.8 %vol.), while hot gas efficiency accomplished 89.6%.
Estimation of natural convection heat transfer characteristics of rack server in a cavity: experimental and numerical analyzes
(Springer Nature, 2024) Chen, Han-Taw; Chen, Kuan-Xun; Amani, Mohammad; Ryšavý, Jiří; Yan, Wei-Mon
The objective of this study is to create a simulation of a cavity containing high-heat rack server computing equipment. The aim is to explore various numbers of openings (two and four apertures) and rack layouts (shelf spacing of 30 and 60 mm and shelf height spacing of 35 and 17 mm) in order to minimize indoor temperature and achieve optimal heat dissipation. The numerical results are evaluated against the experimental data through the utilization of the least squares approach to determine unknown physical quantities. Next, a turbulence model that is appropriate is chosen using root mean square error analysis. The zero-equation model was selected for scenarios involving four ventilation openings, whereas the RNG k-epsilon model was good for scenarios involving two openings. Then, the resulting temperature and flow fields are assessed thereafter. Results revealed that expanding the distance between two racks has a minimal impact on the temperature of the rack surface and the convection coefficients. Thus, this research suggested using a shelf arrangement with a 30 mm shelf spacing to mitigate the occurrence of localized eddy currents at the upper part of the cavity, potentially diminishing the efficiency of ventilation. The presence of openings at the bottom of the cavity led to a 42% improvement in convection heat transfer coefficients, compared to cases without such apertures. Hence, it was recommended to incorporate apertures at the lower part of the cavity to facilitate the intake of cold air. Furthermore, reducing the shelf height spacing resulted in an increase in temperature of around 2 K on the surface of the rack. Nevertheless, it was deemed suitable for optimizing space utilization.
Natural convection heat transfer in isosceles prismatic roof with perforated partition and phase change material
(Elsevier, 2024) Chen, Han-Taw; Chang, Chun-Wei; Rashidi, Saman; Čespiva, Jakub; Yan, Wei-Mon
In this work, both numerical and experimental studies are conducted to predict the natural convection heat transfer characteristics in the isosceles prismatic roof with the perforated partition and phase change material. This study can provide energy -saving methods for the design of passive buildings, responding to the increasingly tense energy crisis. Through post -processing, the effects of tilt angle (theta = 30 degrees and 45 degrees ), partition perforation size (phi(p) = 0.014 mand0.024m), and volume of paraffin (V-pcm = 0 m(3) and 1.1 x 10(-4) m(3)) on the flow field inside the triangular cavity were investigated. The CFD results of different turbulence models are compared with the measured temperature data to achieve the most suitable turbulence model. By comparing the heat transfer coefficient calculated by the empirical formula with the numerical results of various turbulent models, it can be found that the error of the zero equation model is the smallest. The root mean square error (RMSE) between the numerical and the experimental results is only 0.6 %, so this turbulent flow model is used for the subsequent analysis in this study. The results also showed that the heat convection coefficient of the large inclination angle is about 10 % higher than that of the small inclination angle, and the velocity of the flow at the top of the partition is significantly improved, and the convection effect is better. The perforation of the partition forms the chimney effect and causes obvious updraft. The heat transfer from the air to the PCM is not as expected, and the effectiveness of the PCM is minimal.
Pioneering the future: A trailblazing review of the fusion of computational fluid dynamics and machine learning revolutionizing plasma catalysis and non-thermal plasma reactor design
(MDPI, 2024) Arshad, Muhammad Yousaf; Ahmad, Anum Suhail; Mularski, Jakub; Modzelewska, Aleksandra; Jackowski, Mateusz; Pawlak-Kruczek, Halina; Niedźwiecki, Łukasz
The advancement of plasma technology is intricately linked with the utilization of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models, which play a pivotal role in the design and optimization of industrial-scale plasma reactors. This comprehensive compilation encapsulates the evolving landscape of plasma reactor design, encompassing fluid dynamics, chemical kinetics, heat transfer, and radiation energy. By employing diverse tools such as FLUENT, Python, MATLAB, and Abaqus, CFD techniques unravel the complexities of turbulence, multiphase flow, and species transport. The spectrum of plasma behavior equations, including ion and electron densities, electric fields, and recombination reactions, is presented in a holistic manner. The modeling of non-thermal plasma reactors, underpinned by precise mathematical formulations and computational strategies, is further empowered by the integration of machine learning algorithms for predictive modeling and optimization. From biomass gasification to intricate chemical reactions, this work underscores the versatile potential of plasma hybrid modeling in reshaping various industrial processes. Within the sphere of plasma catalysis, modeling and simulation methodologies have paved the way for transformative progress. Encompassing reactor configurations, kinetic pathways, hydrogen production, waste valorization, and beyond, this compilation offers a panoramic view of the multifaceted dimensions of plasma catalysis. Microkinetic modeling and catalyst design emerge as focal points for optimizing CO2 conversion, while the intricate interplay between plasma and catalysts illuminates insights into ammonia synthesis, methane reforming, and hydrocarbon conversion. Leveraging neural networks and advanced modeling techniques enables predictive prowess in the optimization of plasma-catalytic processes. The integration of plasma and catalysts for diverse applications, from waste valorization to syngas production and direct CO2/CH4 conversion, exemplifies the wide-reaching potential of plasma catalysis in sustainable practices. Ultimately, this anthology underscores the transformative influence of modeling and simulation in shaping the forefront of plasma-catalytic processes, fostering innovation and sustainable applications.
Fire safety study of a perlite concrete chimney and wooden ceilings used in buildings based on experimental tests and CFD analysis
(Sage Publications, 2024) Drożdżol, Krzysztof; Kowalski, Mateusz; Kokocińska-Pakiet, Elżbieta; Junga, Robert; Horák, Jiří
The operation of fuel-burning heating equipment results in soot build-up in the flues. Its ignition poses a significant fire risk to the building, as the flue temperature can reach 1000°C. Wooden structural elements located near the chimney (ceilings and roof penetrations) are particularly vulnerable. To date, research has focused on the fire safety of wooden ceiling elements. This is where, due to heat radiation from the chimney, wooden elements significantly increase their temperature and become the location of fire initiation in the buildings. The task of chimney designers is to limit the temperatures of heated wooden building components near these structures. The present work analysed a ceramic and concrete chimney with air space with an innovative perlite concrete casing with a dual-function (load-bearing and thermal insulation). Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analyses verified by a full-scale experiment were conducted to evaluate the fire safety of wooden building ceilings. The tests showed that a high level of safety characterised the chimney under study. The maximum temperature of the casing when testing the soot fire reached 38°C, and the wooden elements simulating the ceiling reached 28°C - this result is almost four times better than the chimney standard requirement. Furthermore, a developed CFD model exhibited high accuracy compared to the experimental results and can be used for designing this type of chimney and other research and expert work, such as that performed after fires in buildings originating from the chimney. Practical Application The article describes CFD analyses and tests of an innovative chimney in a perlite-concrete casing. The described research showed the high safety of such a chimney during soot fires. The results obtained can be used to develop changes in standards to improve the safety of chimneys and design safer and more efficient ones. The author’s chimney model and CFD analysis make it possible to determine the temperatures in the chimney during a soot fire. This CFD model allows you to assess the fire safety of the chimney and the building elements located in its vicinity.
Potential of V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalyst usage as the secondary measure for household heating combustion unit
(Elsevier, 2023) Ryšavý, Jiří; Jaroch, Miroslav; Bury, Marcelina; Horák, Jiří; Krpec, Kamil; Kuboňová, Lenka
The active substance used in oxidation honeycomb catalysts determined for real flue gas purification usually consists of precious metals such as platinum or palladium, while the most common is the mixture of the two mentioned elements, however high prices and limited availability of these elements encourages producers for the search for new, equally or better effective alternatives. In this study V2O5-WO3/TiO2 honeycomb catalyst was tested during the combustion test with commonly sold manually loaded stove. The catalyst was installed in the flue gas duct at the stove outlet. The experimental comparison of the flue gas composition at the catalyst inlet and at the catalyst outlet was performed. Flue gas sampling took place for whole combustion periods. Relatively high conversion rates by catalyst of CO (up to 87.1%), C3H8 (up to 61.3%) and TSP (up to 17.7%) were reached, which meant that the limit values of Commission regulation for mentioned kind of equipment were met during four, not only one period (in case of non-use of the catalyst). The V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalyst has a great potential as the secondary emission control device for achieving low mass concentration of the certain pollutants in the flue gas.
Coke oven gas-to-liquid synthesis: Experimental approach
(Elsevier, 2023) Vereš, Ján; Čespiva, Jakub; Skřínský, Jan; Ochodek, Tadeáš
Carbon resource utilisation is one of the many options to reduce carbon emissions and create additional value from ecological and economic points of view. The utilisation of e.g. process or residue gases is carried out through different technological process steps, including various technologies to convert carbon-rich gases to high value-added products in the form of hydrocarbon (HC) compounds. Several types of residue gas from the iron, steel and coke industries containing different types of elements such as H-2, CH4 and CO are valuable feedstock for carbon utilisation systems. In this study, the possibility of coke oven gas (COG) conversion to HCs using a cobalt catalyst was examined. For a better understanding of the whole process, chromatographic analysis was performed to determine the exact composition of the HC chains synthesised from the COG. The results had shown the efficiency of the liquefaction very close to 20 % w/w for every investigated temperature regime, however, the character of the produced hydrocarbon chains varied. The findings suggest increased production of alcohols of C4 to C9 groups in lower temperatures, while a broad range of alkanes and alkenes C7 to C19 can be efficiently produced if the synthesis temperature is increased.
Influence of thermal and chemical treatment on biosorbent from rice husk and its application in removal of resorcinol from industrial wastewater
(MDPI, 2023) Saeed, Salaha; Arshad, Muhammad Yousaf; Raza, Ahsan; Mahmood, Faisal; Urbanowska, Agnieszka; Ahmed, Anam Suhail; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz
The removal of phenolic compounds is of great importance because of their toxic nature and potentially harmful effects on the environment and human health. This study examines the use of rice husk as a biosorbent for eliminating phenolic compounds, particularly resorcinol, from industrial wastewater. Three types of rice husk, namely raw rice husk (RRH), chemically treated rice husk (CTRH), and thermally treated rice husk (TTRH), are utilized after grinding and methanol treatment. Characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and optical microscopy are used to analyze the rice husk-based adsorbents. The microscopic analysis reveals the presence of nano-pores in TTRH and the existence of carbonyl and hydroxyl groups in all sorbent samples. XRD analysis confirms the presence of silica in biosorbents. This study also examines the influence of dosage and initial concentration on resorcinol sorption. Optimized dosages of 0.5 g (RRH), 0.5 g (CTRH), and 1.5 g (TTRH) result in sorption capacities of 14 mg/g (RRH), 11 mg/g (CTRH), and 5 mg/g (TTRH). Isotherm analysis indicates that the Langmuir isotherm best describes the sorption behavior of TTRH, while the Freundlich isotherm is observed for CTRH, and both RRH and CTRH follow the Temkin isotherm.
Van Krevelen diagrams based on machine learning visualize feedstock-product relationships in thermal conversion processes
(Springer Nature, 2023) Wang, Shule; Wang, Yiying; Shi, Ziyi; Sun, Kang; Wen, Yuming; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz; Pan, Ruming; Xu, Yongdong; Zaini, Ilman Nuran; Jagodzińska, Katarzyna; Aragon-Briceño, Christian; Tang, Chuchu; Onsree, Thossaporn; Tippayawong, Nakorn; Pawlak-Kruczek, Halina; Jönsson, Pär Göran; Yang, Weihong; Jiang, Jianchun; Kawi, Sibudjing; Wang, Chi-Hwa
Feedstock properties play a crucial role in thermal conversion processes, where under standing the influence of these properties on treatment performance is essential for opti mizing both feedstock selection and the overall process. In this study, a series of van Krevelen diagrams were generated to illustrate the impact of H/C and O/C ratios of feedstock on the products obtained from six commonly used thermal conversion techniques: torrefaction, hydrothermal carbonization, hydrothermal liquefaction, hydrothermal gasification, pyrolysis, and gasification. Machine learning methods were employed, utilizing data, methods, and results from corresponding studies in this field. Furthermore, the reliability of the constructed van Krevelen diagrams was analyzed to assess their dependability. The van Krevelen dia grams developed in this work systematically provide visual representations of the relation ships between feedstock and products in thermal conversion processes, thereby aiding in optimizing the selection of feedstock and the choice of thermal conversion technique.
Role of experimental, modeling, and simulation studies of plasma in sustainable green energy
(MDPI, 2023) Arshad, Muhammad Yousaf; Saeed, Muhammad Azam; Tahir, Muhammad Wasim; Raza, Ahsan; Ahmad, Anam Suhail; Tahir, Fasiha; Borkowski, Bartłomiej; Mączka, Tadeusz; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz
This comprehensive review paper offers a multifaceted examination of non-thermal plasma applications in addressing the complex challenge of tar removal within biomass-oriented tech nologies. It begins with a concise introduction to the research background, setting the context for our exploration. The research framework is then unveiled, providing a structured foundation for understanding the intricate dynamics of plasma–tar interactions. As we delve deeper into the sub ject, we elucidate the reactivity of tar compounds and the transformation of alkali metals through plasma-based methodologies, essential factors in enhancing product gas quality. Through an array of empirical studies, we investigated the nuanced interactions between plasma and diverse ma terials, yielding crucial insights into plasma kinetics, modeling techniques, and the optimization of plasma reactors and processes. Our critical review also underscores the indispensable role of kinetic modeling and simulation in advancing sustainable green energy technologies. By harnessing these analytical tools, researchers can elevate system efficiency, reduce emissions, and diversify the spectrum of available renewable energy sources. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate realm of modeling plasma behavior and its intricate interplay with various constituents, illuminating a path toward innovative plasma-driven solutions. This comprehensive review highlights the significance of holistic research efforts that encompass empirical investigations and intricate theoretical modeling, collectively advancing the frontiers of plasma-based technologies within the dynamic landscape of sustainable energy. The insights gained from this review contribute to the overall understanding of plasma technologies and their role in achieving a greener energy landscape.
Comparative analysis of real-emitted particulate matter and PM-bound chemicals from residential and automotive sources: A case study in Poland
(MDPI, 2023) Szramowiat-Sala, Katarzyna; Styszko, Katarzyna; Samek, Lucyna; Kistler, Magdalena; Macherzyński, Mariusz; Ryšavý, Jiří; Krpec, Kamil; Horák, Jiří; Kasper-Giebl, Anne; Gołaś, Janusz
The awareness of environmental pollution has been continuously growing in recent decades and is currently reaching its maximum. Europe and most developed countries are determined to ensure safe breathing air for their citizens, and the measures to do so are stricter than ever before. Combustion procedures remain the primary means of producing energy and warmth in Poland. Among the notable constituents of flue gases produced as a result of fuel combustion, solid particles (or particulate matter) hold significant prominence. The paper presents the chemical characterisation of particulate matter emitted from stationary and automotive emission sources. Stationary emission sources included the combustion process of fossil fuels (soft wood, bituminous coal, ecopea coal, culm) in domestic heating units and the process of combustion of bituminous coal in a power plant. Automotive emission sources included light duty and medium duty vehicles fuelled by diesel. Exhaust toxicity tests were carried out maintaining the real conditions of PM emission. In all field measurements particulate matter was gravimetrically measured and collected on quartz or glass fibre filters. Subsequently, the content of carbonaceous fraction, inorganic ions, and metals and metalloids was analyzed using different analytical techniques. The chemical composition of the particulate matter differed depending on the emission source. With respect to stationary combustion sources, the main factors determining solid particle emission are related primarily to the fuel quality. The duty of vehicles was also a factor that influenced the chemical characterisation of the particulate matter emitted from the engines.
Optimization of gasifying agents in 3D downdraft gasification for enhanced gas composition, combustion, and CO2 utilization
(MDPI, 2023) Mehmood, Adil; Tahir, Muhammad Wasim; Saeed, Muhammad Azam; Arshad, Muhammad Yousaf; Hussain, Huma; Mularski, Jakub; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz
The depletion of fossil-based fuels, fluctuating fuel market, and environmental deterioration demand an aggressive approach towards the advancement of renewable energy technologies. By the time reliable technology for a clean and abundant energy supply is established, existing sources must be economized. Biomass gasification is the way forward in that direction. CFD modeling shows promise in the development of advanced gasification systems. A simplified 3D CFD model of a downdraft gasifier is developed to investigate the effect of gasifying agent composition on the quality of syngas. Simulation results are compared with published experimental data and found to be in reasonably good agreement. Mixing CO2 with a gasification agent is also investigated as a possible carbon capture and utilization (CCU) strategy. An air-steam mixture is used as a base-case gasification agent. Firstly, the effect of air-to-steam ratio on syngas composition is investigated. Secondly, the effect of oxygen and mixing CO2 with a gasification agent is investigated in two separate cases. A 50%-50% air-steam mixture is found to produce the best quality syngas. Oxygen is found to have a negligible impact on the quality of syngas. The air-steam-CO2 = 23%-50%-15% mixture is found to be optimum regarding syngas quality.
Integrating life cycle assessment and machine learning to enhance black soldier fly larvae-based composting of kitchen waste
(MDPI, 2023) Arshad, Muhammad Yousaf; Saeed, Salaha; Raza, Ahsan; Ahmad, Anum Suhail; Urbanowska, Agnieszka; Jackowski, Mateusz; Niedzwiecki, Lukasz
Around 40% to 60% of municipal solid waste originates from kitchens, offering a valuable resource for compost production. Traditional composting methods such as windrow, vermi-, and bin composting are space-intensive and time-consuming. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) present a promising alternative, requiring less space and offering ease of handling. This research encompasses experimental data collection, life cycle assessment, and machine learning, and employs the Levenberg– Marquardt algorithm in an Artificial Neural Network, to optimize kitchen waste treatment using BSFL. Factors such as time, larval population, aeration frequency, waste composition, and container surface area were considered. Results showed that BSFL achieved significant waste reduction, ranging from 70% to 93% by weight and 65% to 85% by volume under optimal conditions. Key findings included a 15-day treatment duration, four times per day aeration frequency, 600 larvae per kilogram of waste, layering during feeding, and kitchen waste as the preferred feed. The larvae exhibited a weight gain of 2.2% to 6.5% during composting. Comparing the quality of BSFL compost to that obtained with conventional methods revealed its superiority in terms of waste reduction (50% to 73% more) and compost quality. Life cycle assessment confirmed the sustainability advantages of BSFL. Machine learning achieved high accuracy of prediction reaching 99.5%.

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