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This study aims to investigate the potential for biodiesel production from oilseed crops in Serbia, using a novel assessment method. The method involves calculating the arable land area that can be utilized for raw material production for the biodiesel industry. The available land for the production of biodiesel feedstocks is determined by subtracting the land required to meet the food needs of the domestic population and livestock from the maximum oilseed production area, which is defined as 20% of the total arable land area in Serbia. The findings reveal that approximately 353,000 hectares of land are available for producing raw materials for biodiesel production without compromising the domestic food supply. This land can provide enough raw materials to produce up to 324,000 tonnes of biodiesel annually, equivalent to 15.2% of the total domestic diesel fuel consumption for transportation in 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The critical role of energy in contemporary life and the environmental challenges associated with its production imply the need for research and exploration of its novel resources. The present review paper emphasizes the continuous exploitation of non-renewable energy sources, suggesting the transition toward renewable energy sources, termed 'green energy', as a crucial step for sustainable development. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of articles, statistical data analysis, and examination of databases. The main focus is biomass, a valuable resource for bioenergy and biopesticide production, highlighting not only its traditional diverse sources, such as agricultural waste and industrial residues, but also non-edible invasive alien plant species. This study explores the utilization of invasive alien species in circular economy practices, considering their role in bioenergy and biopesticide production. The potential conflict between bioproduct acquisition and food sector competition is discussed, along with the need for a shift in approaching non-edible biomass sources. The paper emphasizes the untapped potential of under-explored biomass resources and the necessity for policy alignment and public awareness. Species with a significant potential for these sustainable strategies include Acer negundo L., Ailanthus altisima (Mill.) Swingle., Amorpha fruticosa L., Elaengus angustifolia L., Falopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse Decr., Hibiscus syriacus L., Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm., Paulownia tomentosa Siebold and Zucc., Partenocissus quenquefolia (L.) Planch., Rhus typhina L., Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Thuja orientalis L. In conclusion, the paper highlights the intertwined relationship between energy, environmental sustainability, and circular economy principles, providing insights into Serbia's efforts and potential in adopting nature-based solutions for bioenergy and biopesticides acquisition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To collect and unify data about all geothermal resources in Serbia, a database was formed. The database allows us to perceive the geothermal resources of Serbia and their potential for utilization. Based on the data available in the geothermal database, the estimated temperatures of reservoirs, heat power, and geothermal energy utilization were calculated. The database contains 293 geothermal records (springs, boreholes) registered at 160 locations, with groundwater temperatures in the range between 20 and 111 °C. The maximum expected temperature of the reservoir is 146 °C according to the use of a SiO2 geothermometer. Some thermal water is cooled due to mixing with cold, shallow water. Geothermal resources are mostly used for balneology and recreation, and less for heating, water supply, bottling, fish and animal farms, agriculture, and industrial. 26% of all geothermal resources is used by the local population or has not been used at all. The annual utilization of geothermal energy for direct heat is 1507 TJ/yr, and the estimated capacity of geothermal energy in Serbia is 111 MWt. The results of analytical work were presented in the form of maps with a geological and hydrogeological background. Thermal waters are mostly located within an area of Tertiary magmatism. Three geothermal potential areas are identified in Serbia: Pannonian basin-Vojvodina Province, the Mačva-Srem area and area from Jošanička Banja to Vranjska Banja (southern Serbia). Based on chemical analyses, four hydrochemical facies are distinguished. Thermal water mainly belongs to the NaHCO3 or CaMgHCO3 hydrochemical facies, usually depending on the primary aquifer type: karst, karst-fissured, intergranular or fissured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The novel method for biogenic component determination in liquid fuels by direct measurement of the 14 C activity concentration via liquid scintillation counting (LSC) technique has been used in few laboratories worldwide. This paper presents results of the development of method for bio-component quantification in fuel mixtures in the Nuclear Physics Laboratory Novi Sad, Serbia, as well as their comparison to established methodology in literature with intent to define optimal parameters and measurement conditions for 14 C determination in biofuels. Therefore, the purpose of the paper is to give comprehensive overview of optimal parameters such as scintillation cocktail and vial selection, fuel/cocktail ratio and best calibration procedure of liquid scintillation counter Quantulus 1220™, with practical information for laboratories that intend to develop this technique. Biodiesel produced from two different feedstock materials was mixed with two commercial fossil matrices to produce fuel blends containing 1–100% FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters), which were analyzed for calibration purposes. Analytical study of relation between the detected released energy and quench level led to establishment of calibration curves specific to the fuel types produced in this moment on the market in Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm., high abundance in Novi Sad (Serbia) and previously confirmed biodiesel feedstock suitability, this study aimed to assess generative potential and yield, assess K. paniculata invasive risk, and investigate the influence of harvesting periods on the oil content and quality. Fifty-five specimens present in the Novi Sad inner-city core exhibited very high scores in the conducted invasiveness risk assessment (score 35/39). Determined good overall adaptability, growth and development, vitality and decorativeness of K. paniculata specimens, as well as the absence of phytopathological and entomological damages, due to lack of natural enemies, provided this species high unhindered yielding. The majority of investigated trees reached 5-10 m in height and canopy volumes from 10.1 to 70 m 3 , with an estimated more than 130 000-700 000 seeds produced per canopy. Seeds from one representative specimen were collected on different harvesting dates, at the end of August, September and October of 2019, and analyzed for oil content and quality for biodiesel production. With the average oil percentage of 22.8 w%, determined in the representative specimen, investigated 55 seed-bearing K. paniculata trees merely in the inner city core of Novi Sad, could produce 115 kg of oil. Since oil properties (<1 w% of free fatty acids and the acid number <2 mgKOH.g -1 ) and fatty acid profile (high content of monounsaturated fatty acids ≈72 w%) fit the requirements set in EN14214 biodiesel standard, regardless of the harvest date, harvest season can be extended to at least three months without compromising the oil quality for biodiesel production. Thus, intrinsic disservice of K. paniculata - high seed yielding can be shifted into a novel ecosystem service - quality biodiesel production. Aiming to avoid viable seed deposition in the ground and formation of the invasive seed bank, early August harvest can be recommended., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)