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Solution‐based amine absorption technologies have been widely applied for CO2 capture, but they have several drawbacks. This paper reports on the synthesis of the first solid‐state amine adsorbent prepared through a simple plasma polymerization and deposition on physicochemically modified natural mordenite–clinoptilolite zeolite. The plasma deposition of amine polymer under certain conditions resulted in a significant increase in surface area‐weighted CO2 adsorption capacity as the natural zeolite. The strength of the interaction between CO2 and the adsorbent was weaker for the plasma polymer‐modified zeolite than without the plasma coating, which may facilitate regeneration. Both indications make the amine plasma polymer‐based zeolite adsorbent a good candidate for CO2 adsorption and separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among thousands of known metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), the University of Oslo's MOF (UiO‐66) exhibits unique structure topology, chemical and thermal stability, and intriguing tunable properties, that have gained incredible research interest. This paper summarizes the structural advancement of UiO‐66 and its role in CO2 capture, separation, and transformation into chemicals. The first part of the review summarizes the fast‐growing literature related to the CO2 capture reported by UiO‐66 during the past ten years. The second part provides an overview of various advancements in UiO‐66 membranes in CO2 purification. The third part describes the role of UiO‐66 and its composites as catalysts for CO2 conversion into useful products. Despite many achievements, significant challenges associated with UiO‐66 are addressed, and future perspectives are comprehensively presented to forecast how UiO‐66 might be used further for CO2 management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, it is reported the fabrication of a new dense ceramic‐molten carbonate membrane used for the selective separation of carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) at elevated temperatures (850‐950°C). First, it was chemically synthesized a fluorite/perovskite ceramic oxide with mixed ionic‐electronic conduction properties and general formula Ce0.9Pr0.1O2‐δ/Pr0.6Sr0.4Fe0.5Co0.5O3‐δ (CP‐PSFC, 60:40 wt%) by the citrate‐ethylene‐diamine‐tetra acetic acid (EDTA) route. Then, a disk‐shaped porous ceramic support partially sintered was infiltrated with a ternary mixture of molten salts of Li2CO3/Na2CO3/K2CO3 composition. The permeation measurements at high temperatures suggest a concurrent separation of both species CO2 and O2. The system exhibits high permeance of CO2 and O2 by rising to maximum values of 2.17 × 10−7 and 0.69 × 10−7 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1, respectively at 950°C. Moreover, the possibility of modulating the permeate CO2:O2 ratio is envisaged by changing the fluorite to perovskite proportion in the membrane composition. The stability performance of the obtained membrane was studied under a long‐term permeation test. It exhibits a remarkable thermal and chemical stability during 110 h at 875°C. This way, it corroborated the proposed new ceramic phase's excellent properties for the fabrication of supported ceramic‐molten carbonate membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of CO2 as a carbon source in biorefinery is of great interest, but the low solubility of CO2 in water and the lack of efficient CO2 assimilation pathways are challenges to overcome. Formic acid (FA), which can be easily produced from CO2 and more conveniently stored and transported than CO2, is an attractive CO2‐equivalent carbon source as it can be assimilated more efficiently than CO2 by microorganisms and also provides reducing power. Although there are native formatotrophs, they grow slowly and are difficult to metabolically engineer due to the lack of genetic manipulation tools. Thus, much effort is exerted to develop efficient FA assimilation pathways and synthetic microorganisms capable of growing solely on FA (and CO2). Several innovative strategies are suggested to develop synthetic formatotrophs through rational metabolic engineering involving new enzymes and reconstructed FA assimilation pathways, and/or adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE). In this paper, recent advances in development of synthetic formatotrophs are reviewed, focusing on biological FA and CO2 utilization pathways, enzymes involved and newly developed, and metabolic engineering and ALE strategies employed. Also, future challenges in cultivating formatotrophs to higher cell densities and producing chemicals from FA and CO2 are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mars has a special carbon dioxide environment. The surface and atmosphere of Mars contain a large amount of solid and gaseous carbon dioxide, which makes the in‐situ resource utilization of Martian carbon dioxide attract widespread attention. The conversion of carbon dioxide into fuel or high value‐added products through electrical discharge has become a research focus, in which numerical simulation is one of the important means to explain the experimental phenomenon and the mechanism. Therefore, a one‐dimensional fluid model was established in this paper to simulate the discharge and conversion of carbon dioxide under simulated Martian atmospheric pressure. The discharge mode, particle distribution, and discharge mechanism were studied by considering CO2 vibrational states and vibration relaxation reaction in the model. The results show that the discharge mode is glow discharge with an obvious cathode fall region, negative glow space, and positive column. The density of the four discharge products, C, O2, CO, and O, shows a step‐up trend, showing a significant cumulative effect, and the peak values appear near both electrodes. The density of vibrational states of CO2 molecule, which is highest in the neutral products, increases during the discharge stage and decreases after the discharge is extinguished. The temporal and spatial distribution of reaction rates shows that vibrational excitation, electronic excitation, and vibrational relaxation reactions dominate the loss and formation of CO2. The density of ground‐state CO2 decreases obviously in the discharge stage, and the minimum density appears near the instantaneous cathode. After the discharge is extinguished, the CO2 near the instantaneous cathode increases gradually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of catalysts with high activity, selectivity, and stability is key to the electroreduction of CO2. Herein, we report the synthesis of 3D hierarchical metal/polymer–carbon paper (M/polymer‐CP) electrodes by in situ electrosynthesis. The 3D polymer layer on CP (polymer‐CP) was first prepared by in situ electropolymerization, then a 3D metal layer was decorated on the polymer‐CP to produce the M/polymer‐CP electrode. Electrodes with different metals (e.g. Cu, Pd, Zn, Sn) and various polymers could be prepared by this method. The electrodes could efficiently reduce CO2 to desired products, such as C2H4, CO, and HCOOH, depending on the metal used. For example, C2H4 could be formed with a Faradaic efficiency of 59.4 % and a current density of 30.2 mA cm−2 by using a very stable Cu/PANI‐CP electrode in an H‐type cell. Control experiments and theoretical calculations showed that the 3D hierarchical structure of the metals and in situ formation of the electrodes are critical for the excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design of catalysts with high activity, selectivity, and stability is key to the electroreduction of CO2. Herein, we report the synthesis of 3D hierarchical metal/polymer–carbon paper (M/polymer‐CP) electrodes by in situ electrosynthesis. The 3D polymer layer on CP (polymer‐CP) was first prepared by in situ electropolymerization, then a 3D metal layer was decorated on the polymer‐CP to produce the M/polymer‐CP electrode. Electrodes with different metals (e.g. Cu, Pd, Zn, Sn) and various polymers could be prepared by this method. The electrodes could efficiently reduce CO2 to desired products, such as C2H4, CO, and HCOOH, depending on the metal used. For example, C2H4 could be formed with a Faradaic efficiency of 59.4 % and a current density of 30.2 mA cm−2 by using a very stable Cu/PANI‐CP electrode in an H‐type cell. Control experiments and theoretical calculations showed that the 3D hierarchical structure of the metals and in situ formation of the electrodes are critical for the excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northern peatlands play an important role in the regulation of the atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) balance, functioning as a net carbon sink with low rates of organic decomposition. However, perturbations such as drainage increase peat oxidation, which may lead to enhanced gaseous release of carbon. For this reason, the number of restoration projects that aim to rewet blanket bogs has increased in the last few years, but there is still a lack of understanding of the impact of restoration on emissions of greenhouse gases, such as methane, particularly in sites restored from forestry. In this paper, we investigate the seasonal greenhouse gas dynamics in a forest‐to‐bog restoration site in Scotland. We analyse the effects of restoration on both carbon dioxide and methane fluxes, and investigate which site factors (microtopography, vegetation type, soil moisture and temperature) drive the processes of gaseous exchange between the bog surface and the atmosphere. Our results show that the original surface is near greenhouse gase equilibrium at −0.28 gCO2eq m2·day−1 and that microtopographic features act as a net greenhouse gas sink (ridges = −0.94 gCO2eq m2·day−1 and furrows = −0.86 gCO2eq m2·day−1), whereas the bog pool is a net source of greenhouse gases (0.98 gCO2eq m2·day−1). We found different vegetation species play a key role in greenhouse gas flux dynamics, especially in forestry‐derived microtopographical features, and their presence and influence on greenhouse gas dynamics should be accounted for to provide a more comprehensive understanding of emissions associated with restoration management practices. Highlights: GHG (CO2 and CH4) dynamics in a boreal peatland restored from forestry are mainly affected by microtopography and vegetation.Forestry‐derived microforms (ridges and furrows) are better GHG sinks than pools (GHG emitters) and original surfaces (near GHG equilibrium).The presence of Trichophorum cespitosum leads to higher CH4 emissions.Restoration practices like terraforming may create a short‐term pulse net GHG emission due to an increase of both CH4 and CO2 fluxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A significant amount of global carbon dioxide emissions is due to steel mill gases. One promising approach for the reduction of these emissions is their chemical conversion. In this regard, the conversion to urea is very advantageous, since common urea processes are already using carbon dioxide as a feedstock. In the present paper, urea capacities are determined that can be realized using steel mill gases. The capacities are estimated based on new process concepts that are presented in this paper. Exemplarily, the steel mill of thyssenkrupp Steel in Duisburg, Germany, is considered. It could be shown that reasonable urea capacities can be reached. By this means, a great impact can be made on the reduction of steel mill carbon dioxide emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of calcium‐cemented ash beds serving as caprocks in hydrothermal systems calls for the examination of any chemo‐mechanical processes that may undermine or enhance their sealing capacity. Understanding these processes provides new information regarding how to model time‐dependent observations associated with seismicity and/or deformation in volcanic areas. In addition, since these ash beds are inherently similar to ash‐based concrete, a bridge of knowledge can be built across disciplines in the earth sciences and engineering. This paper investigates how the permeability of a volcanic ash cemented with hydrated lime changes upon exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) in humid and hydrous conditions relevant to natural or human‐driven processes such as those found in hydrothermal settings or near wellbores used for secondary oil recovery, CO2 plume geothermal energy, or carbon storage. We characterized samples by their permeability during carbonation and subsequent changes in pore pressure and confining pressure. Products from the reaction of CO2 with the cemented ash matrix reduced permeability and entrapped fluids. The regions within samples permeated with unreacted CO2 were susceptible to fracturing upon rapid depressurization, but only when the effective stress state was sufficiently low. Altogether, the results indicate that lime‐cemented volcanic ash beds are particularly suited to act as flow barriers to CO2‐rich fluids. Plain Language Summary: This paper examines some of the physical characteristics of materials that are comprised of volcanic sediments and cemented together by a lime‐rich fluid. Such materials can be described as either concrete‐like rocks or rock‐like concretes; thus, they are of interest to geophysical and engineering communities (and their hybrids), especially in regard to natural or human‐made barriers for gases and fluids. A notable example of a gas that can be, or is desired to be, contained underground by rock formations and/or cemented structures is carbon dioxide (CO2). However, it is important to realize that some of the most relevant properties of a rock or concrete serving as a barrier may actually be evolving during exposure to CO2. Consequently, there is a need to understand the processes involved if we are to accurately predict the long‐term efficacy of these seals. We injected CO2 into samples of cemented volcanic ash and subsequently monitored the changes in their permeability while they chemically reacted. Our observations indicate that this particular material, when located at sufficient depth in the subsurface, can serve as a barrier to CO2‐rich fluid flow. Key Points: Carbonation products block gas flow through lime‐cemented volcanic ash, making permeability a time‐dependent, rock physical propertyCascading reaction rims of CaCO3 form upon repeated injection of CO2Rapid depressurization of CO2 gas enhances the permeability of cemented volcanic ash via fracturing when it occurs at low effective stress [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The topology and chemical functionality of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) make them promising candidates for membrane gas separation; however, few meet the criteria for industrial applications, that is, selectivity of >30 for CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2. This paper reports on a dense CAU‐10‐H MOF membrane that is exceptionally CO2‐selective (ideal selectivity of 42 for CO2/N2 and 95 for CO2/CH4). The proposed membrane also achieves the highest CO2 permeability (approximately 500 Barrer) among existing pure MOF membranes with CO2/CH4 selectivity exceeding 30. State‐of‐the‐art atomistic simulations provide valuable insights into the outstanding separation performance of CAU‐10‐H at the molecular level. Adsorbent–adsorbate Coulombic interactions are identified as a crucial factor in the design of CO2‐selective MOF membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regeneration reaction characteristics of the K2CO3/Al2O3 sorbent were investigated with a thermogravimetric apparatus. The effects of the gas composition and temperature on the regeneration conversion and reaction rate were analysed extensively. The results of the thermogravimetric experiment revealed that the regeneration characteristics of K2CO3/Al2O3 are better than those of pure K2CO3 and that temperature is the key parameter for the K2CO3/Al2O3 regeneration process. It was also observed that the regeneration process of K2CO3/Al2O3 occurred in three stages. As the regeneration temperature increased, regeneration occurred in the following sequence: KHCO3 on the external surface, KHCO3 on the internal surface and KAl (CO3)2(OH)2. The activation energy (E, kJ/mol) and pre‐index factor (A, min−1) of the three stages were 69.7, 73.8 and 84.5 and 1.36 × 107, 1.86 × 107 and 2.74 × 106, respectively. The reaction kinetic parameters were calculated by the thermal analysis method. A comprehensive model based on the Avrami–Erofeev reaction mechanism model was proposed for the regeneration process of K2CO3/Al2O3. The model data and test values agreed well, thereby establishing the model's accuracy. This paper provides fundamental data for further study on the capture of carbon dioxide from flue gas using potassium‐based sorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the analysis of the relationship between CO2 emissions and temperatures. For this purpose, global CO2 emissions and four measures of global temperatures (land, land and ocean, northern and southern temperatures) are used. We used techniques based on fractional integration and cointegration. The results indicate first that the orders of integration differ in the two variables. Thus, while emissions are I(1) or I(d) with d higher than 1, temperatures display orders of integration strictly smaller than 1 and thus invalidating the hypothesis of cointegration between the two variables. Due to this, another approach is conducted where we suppose that the emissions are weakly exogenous in relation to the temperatures. The results using this approach show a significantly positive relationship between the two variables with a long memory pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we construct three kinds of hydrate replacement models: N2, CO2 and N2‐CO2. The molecular dynamics (MD) method is used to study the dynamic process of N2‐CO2 replacement for natural gas hydrate. The replacement efficiency of N2/CO2 is simulated, and the influence of gas replacement on the stability of the water cage is assessed. The results show that CH4 molecules in the driving hydrate are all enriched in the gas‐liquid interface or gas region. Compared with the replacement of methane hydrate with CO2, when N2‐CO2 mixed gas is used to replace methane hydrate, the diffusion rate of CO2 is increased by 2 times, and the replacement efficiency of hydrate is significantly improved. The radial distribution function and free energy calculation results show that although the barrier of the water cage is significantly reduced after replacement, the water molecules in the cage still have difficulty jumping over the free energy barrier compared with the thermal motion energy, so the water cage structure remains highly stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Industrial symbiosis (IS) exchanges have been recognized to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, though methods for quantification of GHG emissions in IS exchanges are varied, and no standardized methods are available. This article proposes a practical approach to quantify total and allocated GHG emissions from IS exchanges by integrating the GHG protocol and life cycle assessment. The proposed method expands the system boundaries to include all IS companies, and the functional flow is set to be the sum of the main products. The total impact of a company is allocated to the main product. Three by‐product impact allocation methods of cutoff, avoidance, and 50/50 are proposed, and the total and distributed impacts of the IS systems in an industrial park are theoretically derived. The proposed method was tested to quantify GHG reduction in a real IS exchange developed between Korea Zinc (a zinc smelter) and Hankook Paper (a paper mill company) in the Ulsan Eco‐Industrial Park initiative. The total reduction of GHG emissions in this IS exchange, 60,522 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, was the same in the GHG protocol, whereas GHG distribution between two companies depended on the allocation method. Given that the reduction of GHG emissions from IS exchanges is the product of the collaboration of giving companies and receiving companies, the 50/50 allocation method is best from an equivalent‐responsibility and benefit‐sharing perspective. However, this study suggests a more practical implementation approach based on a flexible and negotiable method of allocating the total GHG reduction between stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the assimilation of satellite observations, particularly radiances from infrared sounders, into numerical weather prediction (NWP) models plays a dominant role in improving weather forecasts. One of the keys to make optimal use of radiances is to simulate them with a radiative transfer model (RTM). At Météo‐France, the RTTOV RTM is used for NWP models. Currently, simulations are carried out taking into account single chemical profiles. However, neglecting the spatial and temporal variability of these gases can affect the accuracy of the simulations and thus the quality of the subsequent analyses and forecasts. To reduce the impact of this assumption on weather forecasts, we use a variational bias correction but it would be more appropriate to correct the bias directly at the source. Ozone is one of the atmospheric constituents with significant impacts on spectral radiances measured by hyperspectral infrared sounders. Thus, the objective of this paper is to replace the use of a single ozone profile with a realistic and variable ozone field in RTTOV for the simulation of infrared observation. The results show that the use of a variable ozone allows us to further reduce biases in simulation of ozone‐sensitive channels but also of channels sensitive mainly to other parameters such as CO2 for example. This has positive effects on the analyses and improves the fit of the short‐range forecasts (or analyses) to other observations such as radiosondes, microwave radiances, GNSS‐RO bending angles, etc. All of these positive impacts allow us to significantly improve weather forecasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International authorities are increasingly recognizing that utilizing the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from various industries can assist strategies for mitigating climate change. In developing novel carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies they aspire to contribute to circular economy targets and reduce consumption of fossil‐based raw materials. However, the potential economic effects of CCU on industrial value chains remain unclear. Hence, this study investigates the economic expectations placed on those actors currently conducting research and development (R&D) in CCU. The aspired levels of economic performance are identified through a systematic literature review of 19 policy advice reports and 15 scientific papers. Qualitative directed content analysis is conducted, based on an R&D input–output–outcome system. First, we identify three relevant groups of value chain actors by clustering industrial sectors: (a) equipment manufacturers, (b) high‐emitting producers, and (c) producers of materials and fuels. Then, we derive a criteria list from the review. Finally, the analysis reveals how CCU innovations are anticipated to impact different industries: Equipment manufacturers could contribute to economic growth. For high‐emitting producers, CCU provides one option for "surviving" sustainability transitions. Meanwhile, material and fuel producers need to act as "problem solvers" by offering competitive ways of utilizing CO2. We conclude by identifying research gaps that should be addressed to better understand the economic and social dimensions of CCU and to increase the chances of such innovations contributing to broader sustainability transformations of industrial and energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the heterogeneity of adsorption pores in middle and high rank coal samples were analyzed by using low temperature N2 and CO2 adsorption technology and fractal theory. The following results were achieved. 1) According to the results of volume and surface fractal dimension, meso‐pores can be classified into Mep‐1, Mep‐2, and Mep‐3, respectively. Micro‐pore can be classified into Mip‐1, Mip‐2, and Mip‐3, respectively. 2) Pore types play an important role in affecting the heterogeneity of meso‐pores. The volume heterogeneity (VHY) of Mep‐1 is simpler than that of Mep‐2 and Mep‐3 in type A samples. However, the VHY of Mep‐1 becomes gradually larger than that of Mep‐2 and Mep‐3 from type A to type B and C. The VHY of open pore in the same diameter is higher than that of semi‐open or closed pore. Meanwhile, the surface heterogeneity (SHY) of types A and B samples is significantly larger than that of type C, the SHY of semi‐open or closed pores is more complicated than that of open pores. 3) Coal rank mainly affects the heterogeneity of micro‐pores. The heterogeneity of type A is always smaller than that of type B and C. The VHY of Mip‐1 is more complicated than that of Mip‐2 and Mip‐3 in the same samples, and the sensitivity of the VHY of Mip‐1 and Mip‐2 to the degree of coal rank is smaller than that of Mip‐3. Meanwhile, the SHY of Mip‐1 and Mip‐2 is simpler than that of Mip‐3 in the same sample, the SHY of micro‐pores remains stable as the pore size decreases, and the affect of coalification level on SHY decreases with the decrease in pore diameter. Full‐scale fractal characterization has enabled quantitative characterization of adsorption pore properties and provided useful information with regards to the similarity of pore features in different coal reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computational requirements often impose limitations on the spatial and temporal resolutions of atmospheric CO2 inversions, increasing aggregation and representation errors. This study enables higher spatial and temporal resolution inversions with spatial and temporal error structures similar to those used in other published inversions by representing the prior flux error covariances as a Kronecker product of spatial and temporal covariances and by using spectral methods for the spatial correlations. Compared to existing inversion systems that are forced to degrade the resolution of the problem in order to bring the dimensionality down to computationally tractable levels, this inversion framework is able to take advantage of mesoscale transport simulations and more of the complexity of spatial and temporal covariances in the surface CO2 fluxes. This approach was successfully implemented over one month with an identical‐twin observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) using a set of assumptions about the prior flux uncertainties compatible both with continental‐scale uncertainty estimates and with comparisons of vegetation models to flux towers. The demonstration illustrates the potential of the newly developed inversion system to use high‐temporal‐resolution information from the North American tower network, to extract high‐resolution information about CO2 fluxes that is inaccessible to coarser resolution inversion systems, and to simultaneously optimize an ensemble of prior estimates. This demonstration sets the stage for regional flux inversions that can take full advantage of the high‐resolution data available in tower CO2 records and mesoscale atmospheric transport reanalyses, include more realistic prior error structures, and explore specifying prior fluxes with ensembles. Plain Language Summary: This paper describes a new inverse framework for deriving surface carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes at high spatial and temporal resolutions from atmospheric mole fraction measurements. We demonstrate the potential of the system over North America by inverting for subdaily biogenic CO2 fluxes while accounting for the complexity of spatio‐temporal structures in flux error covariances in a data‐based manner. Key Points: A new inversion system uses spectral methods for spatial correlations to do a 27 km subdaily inversion over North AmericaThe software package allows simultaneous optimization of multiple prior mean flux estimatesThe system is demonstrated over continental North America for a network of seven towers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing is an environmentally friendly anhydrous method. To study the propagation process during supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing, a full three‐dimensional model, coupled rock deformation, fluid transport, heat conduction, dynamic changes of carbon dioxide physical parameters, to investigate the process of fracture propagation during supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing, is established by the three‐dimensional boundary element method, the finite volume method, and finite difference method. And to solve the multiple physics coupling problems, a fully implicit solution and Newton‐Raphson iteration method are used. On the basis of this model established in this paper, the influential factors of supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing are analyzed. The results show that both of the reservoir temperature and the original in situ stress are important for carbon dioxide fracturing; The higher the reservoir temperature and the lower the initial in situ stress is, the longer and wider the fracture will be. The temperature of carbon dioxide at bottom is of no significance to the fracture length, fracture width, and the bottom hole pressure. A growing injection rate will lead to the increase of the fracture length and fracture width. This study would provide a reference for the fluid phase control of supercritical carbon dioxide fracturing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controlled electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to value added chemicals is an important strategy in terms of renewable energy technologies. Therefore, the development of efficient and stable catalysts in an aqueous environment is of great importance. In this context, we focused on synthesizing and studying a molecular MnIII‐corrole complex, which is modified on the three meso‐positions with polyethylene glycol moieties for direct and selective production of acetic acid from CO2. Electrochemical reduction of MnIII leads to an electroactive MnII species, which binds CO2 and stabilizes the reduced intermediates. This catalyst allows to electrochemically reduce CO2 to acetic acid in a moderate acidic aqueous medium (pH 6) with a selectivity of 63 % and a turn over frequency (TOF) of 8.25 h−1, when immobilized on a carbon paper (CP) electrode. In terms of high selectivity towards acetate, we propose the formation and reduction of an oxalate type intermediate, stabilized at the MnIII‐corrole center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controlled electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to value added chemicals is an important strategy in terms of renewable energy technologies. Therefore, the development of efficient and stable catalysts in an aqueous environment is of great importance. In this context, we focused on synthesizing and studying a molecular MnIII‐corrole complex, which is modified on the three meso‐positions with polyethylene glycol moieties for direct and selective production of acetic acid from CO2. Electrochemical reduction of MnIII leads to an electroactive MnII species, which binds CO2 and stabilizes the reduced intermediates. This catalyst allows to electrochemically reduce CO2 to acetic acid in a moderate acidic aqueous medium (pH 6) with a selectivity of 63 % and a turn over frequency (TOF) of 8.25 h−1, when immobilized on a carbon paper (CP) electrode. In terms of high selectivity towards acetate, we propose the formation and reduction of an oxalate type intermediate, stabilized at the MnIII‐corrole center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main factor of global warming. Carbon satellites have proven that CO2 concentrations have nonuniform spatio‐temporal distributions. The relationship between unevenly distributed CO2 and global surface air temperature (SAT) is seldom known. The success of complex networks provides an opportunity to address this issue. This paper proposes a multilayer climate network approach to identify the impacts of nonuniform CO2 on SAT. The results show that the probability density function (PDF) of degrees, weighted degrees, and link lengths follows power‐law distributions. A large fraction of strong correlation links resides in proximal distance (smaller than 2,000 km), indicating that CO2 nodes are strongly connected to the surrounding SAT nodes. The enhanced distributions of large positive weights, time delays, and degree patterns are all consistent with the properties of Rossby waves. This framework can be useful for predicting future climate changes and policy‐making for carbon reduction. Plain Language Summary: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a prominent anthropogenic greenhouse gas in the atmosphere, and the increasing CO2 is the main reason for global climate warming. The CO2 concentration from satellites has revealed that the spatial distribution of CO2 is uneven. In previous studies, the relationship between CO2 and temperature is based on global CO2 concentration mean assumptions. Here, we propose a multilayer climate network approach to identify their relations using satellite data. We find that the PDF of degrees, weighted degrees, and link lengths follows power‐law distributions. The most dominant links, with a geographical distance larger than 2,000 km, are found for distances of 7,000 km, coinciding with the wavelengths of atmospheric Rossby waves. The time delays associated with these distances are in agreement with the group velocity of the atmospheric Rossby waves. Moreover, the pronounced band over 50°S, the dominance in the Southern Hemisphere relative to the Northern Hemisphere, and the similar patterns to transient heat flux are consistent with the properties of Rossby waves. The proposed approach leads to a better understanding of the role played by CO2 in forcing global temperatures and future climate change. Key Points: There are short‐term correlations between global mid‐troposphere CO2 concentrations and global surface air temperatureThe degrees, weighted degrees, and link lengths of CO2 and SAT multilayer climate network are conformed to power‐law distributionsSignificant correlation links of the constructed climate network yield a clear association with Rossby waves [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new type of green environment‐friendly cementitious material, microbial‐induced mineralization products have garnered more and more attention. In this paper, the synthesis of mineralization products under microbial inducement was conducted. The composition and microstructure of mineralization products were studied using energy‐dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results showed that mineralization products were calcite, while the shape was similar to globular type, and particle size was about 5 μm. The effect of microbial culture solution, secretion solution, and concentration on the conductivity of the solution was compared and analyzed. During the formation of mineralization products, bacterial bodies not only played the role of nucleation sites but also accelerated the deposition of mineralization products. Thus, it could be seen that the bacterial bodies had a certain influence on the reaction kinetics. The adhesion force of mineralization products was evaluated by the interfacial adhesion properties between the mineralization products and glass slides. The results of the sonication test and scratch test indicated that the interfacial adhesion strength between mineralization products and glass slides was closely related to the mass of mineralization products deposited. The larger the mass of mineralization products deposited, the greater the interfacial adhesion strength. Based on the above research and analysis, the reaction process and mechanism model of microbial‐induced mineralization were defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal seam with low permeability is widely distributed in China. Injection of flue gas (N2:CO2 = 0.85:0.15) is an effective approach to improve coal seam gas drainage efficiency. This process relates complex responses among ternary gases (CH4, CO2, and N2) competitive sorption on coals, gas diffusion, gas‐water migration by means of two‐phase flow, and coal deformation. In this paper, an improved hydraulic‐mechanical model coupling above interactions is established for flue gas injection enhanced gas drainage. This model is used to simulate flue gas enhanced drainage by finite element method. The sensitivity analyses of key factors are made to recovery a better understanding on the processes controlling flue gas enhanced drainage. Results show that the flue gas enhanced drainage can indeed improve the efficiency of gas extraction and reduce the gas pressure to the required value in a shorter duration. Due to the competitive adsorption and gas sweeping effect of injected flue gas, CH4 is driven toward drainage borehole, and CH4 pressure and content near the injection borehole decrease faster than that near the drainage borehole. The peak CH4 pressure laterally moves from the injection borehole to the drainage borehole. Higher injection pressure, initial permeability, and smaller sorption affinity ratios may lead to greater CH4 production rate at early drainage stage, but smaller CH4 production rate at late stage. The factors controlling the behavior of flue gas enhanced drainage are initial permeability, injection pressure, and sorption affinity ratios in order. This work offers useful framework to investigate important technical challenges associated with enhanced mine gas drainage, as well as unconventional gas development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hard‐ and softwood residues (from birch and pine respectively) of forestry, pulp, and paper industries (e. g. sawdust, branches) were used to prepare biochar, which was then oxidized using nitric acid to produce catalytic carboxylic acid functionalized biochar. This oxidized biochar, ox–bc, in the presence of a co‐catalyst, showed excellent catalytic activity towards the cycloaddition reaction between CO2 and epoxides using mild conditions (CO2 pressure, 10 bar). No differences in catalytic activity were seen between the two types of oxidized biochar despite the hardwood ox–bc having a significantly higher surface area. The catalysts function through activation of the epoxide reagent via hydrogen‐bonding with carboxylic acid groups on the surface. The number of surface acid groups was reduced by reaction with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane and the resulting material was inactive in the reactions studied. The ox–bc catalysts are sustainable, economic, and renewable alternatives for currently used heterogeneous systems and are also the first carbon‐based materials derived from biomass to exhibit good recyclability (over five runs) with a broad substrate scope for the production of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: Understanding our place in the universe is important. If we are to make sense of our place, we have to examine this not only within the context of 'deep time', the geological history of our planet, but also within the role of other key organisms, specifically plants. Scientists present this history to the public, but we must be aware of the biases that can often be part of these representations, no matter how well intentioned or seemingly objective. Too often images are focused on animals, especially higher animals, and ignore other vital parts of our ecosystems. This has consequences for understanding Earth's history, and also how we treat organisms today. Summary 'Plant blindness' is a feature of our modern world, and of popular science narratives of the evolution of life. Plants are often overlooked and certainly poorly represented in the visual representations of past life on Earth (deep time). They tend to form the backdrop to the teeming activity of evolving animal life and are only mentioned (with appropriate images) at a few significant waypoints: the movement of life to land, the great coal‐forming forests of the Carboniferous period and the evolution of the flowering plants. While plant life is essential for animal life to thrive on land, chapter titles such as 'The invasion of land' and discussion thereof are still generally reserved for animals, and even then, the vertebrates. This paper explores the genesis of this approach to representing deep time as essentially a parade of animal life and shows that during the early period of popular scientific representation, plants were given their due place in some key publications by, for example, Franz Unger and Josef Kuwasseg in the 19th century and Zdenek Burian in the 20th century. Part of the problem appears to be the seemingly static nature of plants and the apparent demand for activity (often predation) that has its origins in science as spectacle, beginning with Henry de la Beche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Leaves with stomata on both upper and lower surfaces, termed amphistomatous, are relatively rare compared with hypostomatous leaves with stomata only on the lower surface. Amphistomaty occurs predominantly in fast‐growing herbaceous annuals and in slow‐growing perennial shrubs and trees. In this paper, we present the current understanding and hypotheses on the costs and benefits of amphistomaty related to water and CO2 transport in contrasting leaf morphologies. First, there is no evidence that amphistomatous species achieve higher stomatal densities on a projected leaf area basis than hypostomatous species, but two‐sided gas exchange is less limited by boundary layer effects. Second, amphistomaty may provide a specific advantage in thick leaves by shortening the pathway for CO2 transport between the atmosphere and the chloroplasts. In thin leaves of fast‐growing herbaceous annuals, in which both the adaxial and abaxial pathways are already short, amphistomaty enhances leaf–atmosphere gas‐exchange capacity. Third, amphistomaty may help to optimise the leaf‐interior water status for CO2 transport by reducing temperature gradients and so preventing the condensation of water that could limit CO2 diffusion. Fourth, a potential cost of amphistomaty is the need for additional investments in leaf water transport tissue to balance the water loss through the adaxial surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of CH3OH from the photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (PCRR) presents a promising route for the clean utilization of renewable resources, but charge recombination, an unsatisfying stability and a poor selectivity limit its practical application. In this paper, we present the design and fabrication of 0D/2D materials with polymeric C3N4 nanosheets and CdSe quantum dots (QDs) to enhance the separation and reduce the diffusion length of charge carriers. The rapid outflow of carriers also restrains self‐corrosion and consequently enhances the stability. Furthermore, based on quantum confinement effects of the QDs, the energy of the electrons could be adjusted to a level that inhibits the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER, the main competitive reaction to PCRR) and improves the selectivity and activity for CH3OH production from the PCRR. The band structures of photocatalysts with various CdSe particle sizes were also investigated quantitatively to establish the relationship between the band energy and the photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the oil and gas industry, carbon dioxide (CO2) gas dissolved in produced fluids can cause both general and localized corrosion of carbon steel pipelines due to the speciation of carbonic acid. To mitigate corrosion, the injection of inhibitors into the production fluid is one of the most commonly used methods. However, recent changes in regulations has resulted in a requirement for the development of new corrosion inhibitors that conform to European regulations. This paper presents a full two‐level factorial experimental design approach to study individual effects of environmentally friendly classed inhibitor components (phosphate ester, imidazoline, and quaternary amine derivatives) as combined inhibitors and their interactive effects on carbon steel corrosion processes in CO2‐saturated 3.5 wt.% NaCl brine. Through the application of in situ electrochemical monitoring, post‐test interferometry, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) it was possible to determine the influence of each component within the blends and their effect on both general and localized corrosion. Based on 24 h experiments, the phosphate ester derivative reduced general corrosion rate in all blends; imidazoline derivatives reduced the uniform corrosion rate only when it was at the high level in the blend; and the quaternary amine derivative promoted pitting on the surface. Eight blends prepared based on a full two‐level factorial experimental design, using three eco friendly components, have been evaluated as corrosion inhibitors for mild steel at 60 °C in a CO2‐saturated brine. The results showed that is possible to determine each component influence within the blends and optimize formulation in determinated experimental conditions, from statistical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time‐lapse seismic data is useful for identifying fluid movement and pressure and saturation changes in a petroleum reservoir and for monitoring of CO2 injection. The focus of this paper is estimation of time‐lapse changes with uncertainty quantification using full‐waveform inversion. The purpose of also estimating the uncertainty in the inverted parameters is to be able to use the inverted seismic data quantitatively for updating reservoir models with ensemble‐based methods. We perform Bayesian inversion of seismic waveform data in the frequency domain by combining an iterated extended Kalman filter with an explicit representation of the sensitivity matrix in terms of Green functions (acoustic approximation). Using this method, we test different strategies for inversion of the time‐lapse seismic data with uncertainty. We compare the results from a sequential strategy (making a prior from the monitor survey using the inverted baseline survey) with a double difference strategy (inverting the difference between the monitor and baseline data). We apply the methods to a subset of the Marmousi2 P‐velocity model. Both strategies performed well and relatively good estimates of the monitor velocities and the time‐lapse differences were obtained. For the estimated time‐lapse differences, the double difference strategy gave the lowest errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 is increasingly attracting research interest for the growing concerns about climate change resulted from the greenhouse effect due to the industrial emission of CO2. In this paper, we report the synthesis of Zn3In2S6 modified TiO2 nanocomposite via a facial hydrothermal method. The samples were characterized by photoluminescence spectra (PL), UV‐vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). The production rate of CO from CO2 is dramatically improved over the obtained composite catalyst. The contact between Zn3In2S6 and TiO2 is responsible for this ameliorated photocatalytic activity because of the formation of the Z‐scheme charge transfer mechanism which favors the separation of photo‐induced charges. Photogenic drama: Zn3In2S6 was used to modify TiO2 based photocatalytic system, giving rise to a greatly improved reduction of CO2 into CO. The ameliorated photocatalytic activity might be ascribable to Z‐scheme electron transfer, resulting in dramatically enhanced separation and transfer efficiencies of photo‐induced electron‐hole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the application of carbon dioxide for CT imaging during an endovascular procedure to help characterise unexpected bilateral common iliac artery stenosis utilising an angio-CT system, confirming its application in interventional radiology while maintaining sterility. A 78 year old male was referred to the Radiology Interventional Suite with left lower limb rest pain. On imaging via digital subtraction angiography and CT utilising both iodinated contrast and carbon-dioxide (CO2 ), endovascular treatment of bilateral CIA stenosis was performed with good clinical result. The case presented demonstrates the advanced imaging techniques possible in suites that have ready access to angiography and conventional CT. CO2 CT angiography is optimally performed on combined Angio-CT systems where CT and angiography system are integrated into a single room. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil carbon sequestration is being considered as a potential pathway to mitigate climate change. Cropland soils could provide a sink for carbon that can be modified by farming practices; however, they can also act as a source of greenhouse gases (GHG), including not only nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4), but also the upstream carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with agronomic management. These latter emissions are also sometimes termed "hidden" or "embedded" CO2. In this paper, we estimated the net GHG balance for Chinese cropping systems by considering the balance of soil carbon sequestration, N2O and CH4 emissions, and the upstream CO2 emissions of agronomic management from a life cycle perspective during 2000–2017. Results showed that although soil organic carbon (SOC) increased by 23.2 ± 8.6 Tg C per year, the soil N2O and CH4 emissions plus upstream CO2 emissions arising from agronomic management added 269.5 ± 21.1 Tg C‐eq per year to the atmosphere. These findings demonstrate that Chinese cropping systems are a net source of GHG emissions and that total GHG emissions are about 12 times larger than carbon uptake by soil sequestration. There were large variations between different cropping systems in the net GHG balance ranging from 328 to 7,567 kg C‐eq ha−1 year−1, but all systems act as a net GHG source to the atmosphere. The main sources of total GHG emissions are nitrogen fertilization (emissions during production and application), power use for irrigation, and soil N2O and CH4 emissions. Optimizing agronomic management practices, especially fertilization, irrigation, plastic mulching, and crop residues to reduce total GHG emissions from the whole chain is urgently required in order to develop a low‐carbon future for Chinese crop production. This is important to know what extent are greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from intensive arable agriculture in China mitigated by sequestration of carbon in soil. We calculated the net GHG balance (kg C‐eq ha−1 year−1) between SOC stock change and emissions of N2O and CH4 and upstream CO2‐eq emissions associated with agronomic management. Despite the soil carbon sink found in Chinese cropland soils, it acted as a net GHG source because the emissions of total GHG are about one order of magnitude larger than the soil carbon sink under current farmers' practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dry reforming of shale gas (methane and ethane with an average ratio of 4 : 1) with carbon dioxide (DRS) is considered to be a promising way to produce syngas, which widens the utilization of shale gas and mitigates carbon dioxide emission. In this paper, Ce modified Ni‐based catalysts were developed and the corresponding catalytic performances for DRS were investigated with a fixed bed reactor. Results showed that the catalyst containing 5 wt% of Ni and 5 wt% of Ce performed a best catalytic effect, including the selectivity of syngas and the carbon resistance performance, which is due to the good metal dispersion, strong interaction between Ni and Ce, and the formation of Ni‐CeOx solid solution. The electron transfer between Ni and Ce, substitution of Ni for Ce, and the sequential oxygen vacancies or defects, play significant roles in activating CH4, C2H6 and CO2. The conversion of reactant gas increased with temperature, while the selectivity of syngas is little affected with temperature. In addition, the desired catalyst containing 5 wt% of Ni and 5 wt% of Ce showed good stability in the long‐time operation, which indicates that the Ce modified Ni‐based catalyst is a promising one for the dry reforming of shale gas. High fives! The catalyst 5Ni‐5Ce exhibits the best catalytic performance in the dry reforming of shale gas and CO2. The introduction of Ce creates strong interaction between Ni and Ce, which enhances the electron transfer between them. And the substitution of Ni for Ce produces oxygen vacancies and defects, which can accelerate the adsorption and activation of the reactant gases molecule, further promoting the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Developing immobilized molecular complexes, which demonstrate high product efficiencies at low overpotential in the electrochemical reduction of CO2 in aqueous media, is essential for the practical production of reduction products. In this work, a simple and facile self‐assembly method is demonstrated by electrostatic interaction and π–π stacking for the fabrication of a porphyrin/graphene framework (FePGF) composed of Fe(III) tetraphenyltrimethylammonium porphyrin and reduced liquid crystalline graphene oxide that can be utilized for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO on a glassy carbon electrode in aqueous electrolyte. The FePGF results in an outstanding robust catalytic performance for the production of CO with 97.0% faradaic efficiency at an overpotential of 480 mV and superior long‐term stability relative to other heterogeneous molecular complexes of over 24 h (cathodic energy efficiency: 58.1%). In addition, a high surface area carbon fiber paper is used as a substrate for FePGF catalyst, resulting in enhanced current density of 1.68 mA cm−2 with 98.7% CO faradaic efficiency at an overpotential of 430 mV for 10 h, corresponding to a turnover frequency of 2.9 s−1 and 104 400 turnover number. Furthermore, FePGF/CFP has one of the highest cathodic energy efficiencies (60.9%) reported for immobilized metal complex catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In recent years, because of increased carbon dioxide emissions problem, the air pollution has been attracting attention. For example, the exhaust fumes produce nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide. Therefore, these gases should be detected and measured. In this paper, we propose a novel moisture‐insensitive sensor consisting of a comb‐shaped electrode on a Si substrate. We also suggest a new measurement method, using complex impedances, for distinguishing between NO2 and SO2 at low concentrations. It is shown that propose oxidizing‐gas sensor, fabricated on a Si substrate, is moisture‐insensitive for humidity of 40% to 80%. Furthermore, we determine that it is possible to measure mixed gases in the range of 0.1–0.9 ppm for nitrogen dioxide and 0.6‐1.4 ppm for sulfur dioxide owing to the difference in the complex‐impedance change pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction in aqueous solutions is an attractive strategy for carbon capture and utilization. Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) is a promising catalyst for CO2 reduction as it can convert CO2 into valuable hydrocarbons and suppress the side hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the nature of the active sites in Cu2O remains under debate because of the complex surface structure of Cu2O under reducing conditions, leading to limited guidance in designing improved Cu2O catalysts. This paper describes the functionality of surface‐bonded hydroxy groups on partially reduced Cu2O(111) for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) by combined density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental studies. We find that the surface hydroxy groups play a crucial role in the CO2RR and HER, and a moderate coverage of hydroxy groups is optimal for promotion of the CO2RR and suppression of the HER simultaneously. Electronic structure analysis indicates that the charge transfer from hydroxy groups to coordination‐unsaturated Cu (CuCUS) sites stabilizes surface‐adsorbed COOH*, which is a key intermediate during the CO2RR. Moreover, the CO2RR was evaluated over Cu2O octahedral catalysts with {111} facets and different surface coverages of hydroxy groups, which demonstrates that Cu2O octahedra with moderate coverage of hydroxy groups can indeed enhance the CO2RR and suppress the HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into value‐added chemicals is a promising strategy to reduce CO2 emission and mitigate climate change. One of the most serious problems in electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (CO2R) is the low solubility of CO2 in an aqueous electrolyte, which significantly limits the cathodic reaction rate. This paper proposes a facile method of catholyte‐free electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to avoid the solubility limitation using commercial tin nanoparticles as a cathode catalyst. Interestingly, as the reaction temperature rises from 303 K to 363 K, the partial current density (PCD) of formate improves more than two times with 52.9 mA cm−2, despite the decrease in CO2 solubility. Furthermore, a significantly high formate concentration of 41.5 g L−1 is obtained as a one‐path product at 343 K with high PCD (51.7 mA cm−2) and high Faradaic efficiency (93.3 %) via continuous operation in a full flow cell at a low cell voltage of 2.2 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect of additive Fe on Ni/Al2O3 catalyst for CO2 methanation was studied. A series of bimetallic Ni–Fe catalysts with different Ni/Fe ratios were prepared by impregnation method. For comparison, monometallic Fe‐based and Ni‐based catalysts were also prepared by the same method. The characterization results showed that adding Fe to Ni catalyst on the premise of a low Ni loading(≦12 wt.%) enhanced CO2 methanation performance. However, when the Ni loading reached 12 wt.%, the catalytic activity decreased with the increase of Fe content, but still higher than the corresponding Ni‐based catalyst without Fe. Among them, the 12Ni3Fe catalyst exhibited the highest CO2 conversion of 84.3 % and nearly 100% CH4 selectivity at 50000 ml g‐1 h‐1 and 420 °C. The enhancement effect of adding Fe on CO2 methanation was attributed to the dual effect of suitable electronic environment and increased reducibility generated by Fe species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An alternative of wellbore cement system, formed through alkali‐activation of fly ashes also knows as fly ash geopolymers, provides attractive properties due to its high compressive strength and durability against acidic conditions. However, changes in microstructure and mineralogical during accelerated carbonation affected by CO2 alteration under elevated temperature and pressure have not been fully understood. This paper investigates and characterizes the alkali‐activated binders fly ash based in the acidic environment under elevated temperature and pressure. The results found that scales such a layer was formed in the gel phase at the spherical surface of fly ash after carbonation process. The effect is that the surface of the gel phase became rough and porous. Carbonate and/or bicarbonate salts were identified as major phase in the sample after immersion test. In the activated fly ash cement, both calcium aluminate silicate hydrate (C–A–S–H) and sodium aluminosilicate hydrate (N–A–S–H) gels were formed; C–A–S–H gel was decalcified, forming calcium carbonate phase in the form of calcite, aragonite or vaterite. These findings were confirmed by the analysis and identification of Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy tests on the changes in the cement system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Climate change has been described as the biggest global health threat of the 21st century. The atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, have increased significantly since the start of the Industrial Era around 1750, with much of this increase occurring over just the last 50 years or so. This is resulting in warming of the climate system as well as changes in precipitation and weather and climate extremes. These changes in climate are having wide‐ranging impacts on the Earth’s physical, biological and human systems, including human health. It is these impacts of climate change on human health that are the focus of this paper, particularly the impacts on allergens and allergic diseases. Such impacts are particularly significant in many countries where the prevalence of such diseases is high and/or increasing. There is now compelling evidence that rising air temperatures and carbon dioxide concentrations are, in some plant species, resulting in increased pollen production and allergenicity and advancement and lengthening of the pollen season. Changes in extreme events, such as thunderstorms and tropical cyclones, will also have impacts on allergic diseases, with, for example, the flooding associated with tropical cyclones leading to proliferation of mould growth in damp homes. The article also considers a range of responses to these health threats, including greenhouse gas mitigation, and adaptation strategies, such as enhanced environmental monitoring and health surveillance and adequate planning for the future medical workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer systems displaying CO2-triggered rheology alteration are widely investigated in recent years, which can change from nonviscous liquid to high-viscosity solution or even gel by passing CO2 through. Among those polymer systems, a previous study of the group shows that a rationally designed ABA-type triblock copolymer with a hydrophilic middle block and two CO2-responsive end blocks can undergo either gel-sol or sol-gel transition triggered by CO2 as a result of increase or decrease in lower critical solution temperature of A blocks, respectively. This paper describes a new and more flexible approach to achieving CO2-induced gelation of polymer aqueous solution at much lower polymer concentrations. It consists in mixing two water-soluble ABA triblock copolymers that have the same B block but different A blocks: for one polymer, the A blocks are a negatively charged polyelectrolyte, and for the other polymer, the A blocks can be turned positively charged under CO2 stimulation. In this way, CO2 bubbling through an aqueous solution of the two constituent triblock copolymers can induce complexation of the oppositely charged A blocks and, as a result, gelation of the solution of mixed triblock copolymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing demand for superhydrophobic materials, which can be used for separating oil and water efficiently. To avoid secondary pollution, it is desirable to prepare such materials with green technology. Here, we present an environmentally benign method for fabricating superhydrophobic materials by using organic base based solvents in which cellulose can be dissolved and activated. The dissolved cellulose could be chemically modified with a silanization reagent, and the solvent could be recycled after CO2 was removed. The obtained cellulose nanocoating exhibited excellent hydrophobic effects. By spraying it on filter paper (water contact angle (WCA)=165°) for oil and water separation, the separation efficiency of more than 95 % was achieved; ultrasonication of an ordinary sponge in its dispersion (WCA=163°), meant it could be used as an oil absorber. It can also absorb a certain amount of bisphenol A (BPA), with the concentration decreasing by 66 % from the original concentration (0.1 m m). Besides the high separation efficiency, it is resistant to a wide range of pH solutions, which means that it could be used in harsh environments. More importantly, the process is cost-effective, the solvent can be recycled, and the whole process is green. Thus, the activation method provides a green route for the preparation of other cellulose-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar application to soils may increase carbon (C) sequestration due to the inputs of recalcitrant organic C. However, the effects of biochar application on the soil greenhouse gas ( GHG) fluxes appear variable among many case studies; therefore, the efficacy of biochar as a carbon sequestration agent for climate change mitigation remains uncertain. We performed a meta-analysis of 91 published papers with 552 paired comparisons to obtain a central tendency of three main GHG fluxes (i.e., CO2, CH4, and N2O) in response to biochar application. Our results showed that biochar application significantly increased soil CO2 fluxes by 22.14%, but decreased N2O fluxes by 30.92% and did not affect CH4 fluxes. As a consequence, biochar application may significantly contribute to an increased global warming potential ( GWP) of total soil GHG fluxes due to the large stimulation of CO2 fluxes. However, soil CO2 fluxes were suppressed when biochar was added to fertilized soils, indicating that biochar application is unlikely to stimulate CO2 fluxes in the agriculture sector, in which N fertilizer inputs are common. Responses of soil GHG fluxes mainly varied with biochar feedstock source and soil texture and the pyrolysis temperature of biochar. Soil and biochar pH, biochar applied rate, and latitude also influence soil GHG fluxes, but to a more limited extent. Our findings provide a scientific basis for developing more rational strategies toward widespread adoption of biochar as a soil amendment for climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper gives an overview of our plasma chemistry modeling for CO2 and CH4 conversion in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and microwave (MW) plasma. We focus on pure CO2 splitting and pure CH4 reforming, as well as mixtures of CO2/CH4, CH4/O2, and CO2/H2O. We show calculation results for the conversion, energy efficiency, and product formation, in comparison with experiments where possible. We also present the underlying chemical reaction pathways, to explain the observed trends. For pure CO2, a comparison is made between a DBD and MW plasma, illustrating that the higher energy efficiency of the latter is attributed to the more important role of the vibrational levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, immersion experiments were carried out to compare corrosion behaviors of low-alloy steel exposed to both H2S/CO2 environments in terms of corrosion kinetics, corrosion products, macroscopic/microscopic surface morphology, cross-section morphology, and elemental distribution. The experimental results demonstrated that the corrosion kinetics of both the corrosion environments was similar. The distinctive corrosion environment accelerated the formation of different corrosion products. The corrosion products of vapor-saturated H2S/CO2 environment were mackinawite, cubic iron sulfide, and greigite, while, the ones of H2S/CO2-saturated brine environment were mackinawite and cubic iron sulfide. The surface formation process was also similar. The vapor-saturated H2S/CO2 environment promoted the formation of fine crystals compared with H2S/CO2-saturated brine environment. Molybdenum accumulated in the inner layer in both the corrosion environments. Two schematic models of corrosion process are proposed based on the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biochar application to soils may increase carbon (C) sequestration due to the inputs of recalcitrant organic C. However, the effects of biochar application on the soil greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes appear variable among many case studies; therefore, the efficacy of biochar as a carbon sequestration agent for climate change mitigation remains uncertain. We performed a meta‐analysis of 91 published papers with 552 paired comparisons to obtain a central tendency of three main GHG fluxes (i.e., CO2, CH4, and N2O) in response to biochar application. Our results showed that biochar application significantly increased soil CO2 fluxes by 22.14%, but decreased N2O fluxes by 30.92% and did not affect CH4 fluxes. As a consequence, biochar application may significantly contribute to an increased global warming potential (GWP) of total soil GHG fluxes due to the large stimulation of CO2 fluxes. However, soil CO2 fluxes were suppressed when biochar was added to fertilized soils, indicating that biochar application is unlikely to stimulate CO2 fluxes in the agriculture sector, in which N fertilizer inputs are common. Responses of soil GHG fluxes mainly varied with biochar feedstock source and soil texture and the pyrolysis temperature of biochar. Soil and biochar pH, biochar applied rate, and latitude also influence soil GHG fluxes, but to a more limited extent. Our findings provide a scientific basis for developing more rational strategies toward widespread adoption of biochar as a soil amendment for climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A process development unit (PDU) for amine-based post-combustion carbon capture located at Clean Coal Technologies Centre in Zabrze, Poland, was used to validate split-stream configuration. A PDU having capacity up to 100 m³n /h was designed to test the amine scrubbing carbon capture process from flue gases or mixtures of technical gases. Flexible process flow sheet of the unit allowed investigation of the split flow process. The split-flow flowsheet modification was compared with a standard system for chemical absorption-based CO2 capture. The tests were conducted using well-accepted baseline solvent: 30 wt% aqueous monoethanolamine solution. The flow sheet modification resulted in a decrease of reboiler heat duty by ~1.6% and an increase in CO2 recovery by ~1.2 p.p. Split-flow process modification was examined together with standard process flow sheet, and vast number of process parameters recorded during the trials have been presented. The explanation of beneficial effects of split-flow designs have been shown together with detailed analysis of experimental trials carried out using PDU for amine-based post-combustion carbon capture. This paper is also a valuable source of experimental data useful during validation of models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power-to-Methane is a technically feasible process that can store large amounts of electrical energy for a long time period. The produced gas of the process can be fed into the natural gas grid or used as fuel. An essential part of the process chain is the catalytic methanation of carbon dioxide. In the methanation process, carbon dioxide and hydrogen are converted into methane and water vapor. Carbon dioxide can be won from industrial processes, ambient air or biogas plants. In this paper, fundamentals and process developments of methanation of carbon dioxide are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]