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Biohydrogen has gained several advantages due to its high–energy content, pollution–free byproduct emission, ambient operating conditions, and ability to use various substrates for production. Further, the use of organic waste can be considered as a promising source for the production of biohydrogen while overcoming the possible environmental issues upon its disposal. However, the routes of biohydrogen production i.e. photo and dark fermentation encounter several challenges for commercialization due to lower yields. To make the process more expedient, nanomaterials such as metal, metal oxides, carbon–based, and inorganic are used to improve the hydrogen production owing to their unique physical and physical properties. In view of this, the current review highlights the role of these nanomaterials in the biological conversion of organic waste to biohydrogen. Further, emphasis is given on the mechanisms of nanomaterials' interaction with microorganisms, life cycle, and techno–economic analyses along with its major challenges and future prospects. • Photo/dark fermentative biohydrogen production from organic wastes. • Application of nanoparticles in pretreatment, hydrolysis, and fermentation process. • Mechanism of interaction of nanoparticles with microorganisms during fermentation. • Techno-economic and life cycle analysis of biohydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmaceutical substances, a pill for every ill, have become a sweet poison by remarkably boosting the global economy as well as human and animal wellness and at the same time causing environmental pollution, especially in the aquatic ecosystem, and this has led to a fatal diminution in the availability of clean water and upsurge in water insecurity. Notably, traditional techniques and materials have been employed to clean up pharmaceutical pollutants (PP) from aquatic bodies; however, they have come under controversy because they require hazardous chemicals and cannot fully mineralize stubborn PPs. Interestingly, the photocatalytic degradation approach employing eco‐benign biosynthesized nanoparticles (BNP) is an avant‐garde practice and has shown to be an eco‐sustainable method that can fully mineralize PPs into harmless molecules. Thus, this study critically explores the application of BNPs for the photocatalytic degradation of PPs. The review revealed that the greatest degradation efficacy of BNPs was greater than 80% in most cases, and that the least amount of time required was around 10 min. In addition, the oxygen‐containing functional groups found in the biological sources used for the fabrication of BNPs contributed to the supremacy of •OH and O2• radicals in the degradation operation. Also, the photocatalytic degradation kinetic data was well modeled by pseudo‐first order, and this indicates that •OH was more involved in the PPs degradation operation than O2•. Moreso, BNPs have excellent reusability potential (>5 rounds) while maintaining inherent structural integrity. Techno‐economic analysis revealed that BNPs are cost‐effective, costing about $1.5/1,000,000 mL of pharmaceutical wastewater on average. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In accordance with the Korean 2050 carbon neutrality scenarios, renewable energy accounts for 70.8 % and 60.9 % of the total future electricity production in scenarios A and B, respectively. However, renewable energy is relatively more uncontrollable than other generators, such as gas turbines and power plants, and this condition can lead to grid instability, including electricity waste and blackouts. Here, we analyzed the issues by designing and simulating a South Korean energy supply and demand system. Uncontrollable renewable energy causes a mismatch between power supply and demand. We resolved this issue by increasing the capacity of controllable generators, ultimately resulting in unwanted excess energy generation of 302 TWh and 281 TWh for Scenarios A and B, respectively. Therefore, an energy storage system (ESS), including a battery and electrolysis facility, was added to stabilize the total electrical grid. A stabilized electrical grid provides economic benefits, such as reduced levelized cost of electricity and net present cost, particularly by the battery ESS. Electrolysis can generate hydrogen to be used as a fuel of controllable energy, increasing the stability of the total grid by reducing excess energy more practically than the battery ESS does. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The future energy consumption of data centers is expected to be significant worldwide. From the perspective of carbon neutrality, designing 100 % renewable energy systems with distributed energy resources that can reliably supply energy to data centers is necessary. However, renewables' intrinsic uncontrollable characteristics make the stable energy supply challenging. Herein, we designed a 100 % renewable energy system by combining abundant but uncontrollable solar energy (e.g., photovoltaic (PV) cells) and controllable hydrogen (H2) energy systems (e.g., hydrogen microturbine and fuel cells) for a stable energy supply to an actual data center in South Korea. The hybrid system with on-site hydrogen production would be favorable after 2030 because of the expected decrease in green hydrogen prices and increase in carbon tax. Also, from sensitivity analyses, we found that the total NPC decreased by 75.2 % ($ 83.8M) with the green hydrogen price change from 14.5 $/kg to 3 $/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene furanoate (PEF) is a biobased plastic, similar to synthetic polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is produced from the platform chemical 2,5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). Much of the literature surrounding PEF is focused on unit processes, with little regard for their sustainability and economic viability. In this comprehensive critical review, the entire process of PEF production, from the feedstock to polymerization and upstream applications, is critically examined. Identification of individual pathways capable of producing PEF efficiently and with favorable properties while considering economic viability and environmental sustainability are presented. For each unit operation, recent technological developments are summarized, and recommendations are made based on process efficiency. The collection of the findings from both life cycle assessments (LCA) and techno‐economic analyses (TEA) facilitated the identification of pathways with the greatest potential for environmental sustainability and economic viability of PEF production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental hazards, especially particulates, and microbiological pollutants, have resulted in significant negative impacts on human health. In this study, 3D biodegradable cellulose filters were made from nanocellulose and tested for the removal efficiency of airborne particulates. Cellulose was first extracted from palm empty fruit bunches (EFBs) using green Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) under moderate temperature and then homogenized at high pressure to produce cellulose at the nanoscale size. Three types of renewable choline chloride (ChCl)‐based DESs were used: lactic acid, 1,3‐butanediol, and oxalic acid. The maximum cellulose yield from DES pretreatment was 38.78 % based on raw EFB (100 % cellulose yield based on cellulose in EFB) with ChBu60 C and the maximum nanocellulose yield was 68.49 % based on cellulose in EFB with ChLa80 C after 12‐pass high pressure homogenization. The cellulose air filter was fabricated using tert‐butyl alcohol (tBuOH) solvent exchanged under freeze‐drying conditions and characterized by different state‐of‐the‐art techniques. It was shown that the ChBu80 C filter had the lowest pressure drop (10.16 mmH2O or 2.07 mmH2O cm−2) and the maximum particle filtration efficiency (32.51 % for 0.1 μm and 93.63 % for 1.0 μm particles). The process simulation and techno‐economic analysis were performed for nanocellulose production and air filter fabrication to select the most feasible technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) show captivating performances in many large‐scale applications including gas adsorption and separation, heat reallocation, water production, or remediation which can overcome important drawbacks of the conventionally used porous materials in the industry. This raises, therefore, the commercial interest in MOFs which brings the necessity to decrease the cost of their production, calling for the synthesis optimization from small‐scale to large‐scale. However, the commercial availability, yet very limited, is highly dependent on their production cost. Thus, to promote the commercial development and availability of MOFs, many steps can be taken. In this work, the state‐of‐art of the large‐scale production of MOFs can be first outlined, before discussing the criteria of greener MOF synthesis processes. Besides, a critical evaluation of the available synthesis routes for large‐scale production can be given, taking into consideration their cost, environmental impact, safety, and feasibility. Moreover, since there are strong limitations to the use in the powder form, the shaping procedures can thus be discussed briefly to outline the prospects of MOFs for different industrial applications. Finally, yet importantly, the perspective for MOFs commercialization can be highlighted with an emphasis on the necessity of techno‐economic analyses and life‐cycle assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen, a crucial clean and renewable energy source, addresses pressing challenges of energy security and environmental pollution. Water electrolysis for hydrogen production is a promising approach to satisfy the growing demand for sustainable energy. This study uniquely performs a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production using both Alkaline and Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, a first in the field to evaluate their performance comprehensively with advanced Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques. Leveraging TOPSIS, WASPAS interval methods, and the Best Worst Method (BWM) with fuzzy logic, this research introduces a novel evaluation framework that incorporates a wide-ranging set of factors, including environmental, technical, technological, economic, and social aspects, divided into 30 sub-criteria. These insights offer a comprehensive understanding of each electrolyser's strengths and weaknesses, helping stakeholders make informed decisions about cost reduction in hydrogen production technologies. This has not been done before. Although cost results favour Alkaline electrolysers, PEM electrolysers are attractive for specific applications where their benefits justify the higher initial cost, choosing between Alkaline and PEM electrolysers dependent on a given hydrogen production project's requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This critical review examines the potential of household biogas technology in Africa, focusing on biogas production and techno‐economic feasibility studies. The review highlights the benefits of biogas technology, including renewable energy generation, waste management, and improved public health. A significant portion of Africa's rural population, approximately 60%, grapples with limited access to reliable power sources. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. Biogas production stands out as one of the promising renewable energy sources. However, it also discusses the challenges and limitations of implementing this technology on a continental scale. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. The study concludes by recommending strategies for scaling up biogas technology in Africa, including capacity building, technology transfer, and innovative financing models. The review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working towards sustainable energy solutions in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To advance wave energy devices towards commercialization, it is essential to optimize their design to enhance system performance. Additionally, a thorough economic evaluation is crucial for making these technologies competitive with other renewable energy sources. This study focuses on the techno-economic optimization of an innovative inertial system, the so-called SWINGO system, which is based on gyropendulum technology. SWINGO stands out due to its high energy efficiency in multi-directional installation sites, where wave directions vary significantly throughout the year. The study introduces the application of a multi-objective Evolutionary Algorithm (EA), specifically the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), to optimize the techno-economic performance of the SWINGO system. This approach aims to identify optimal design parameters that maximize energy extraction while considering economic viability. By deriving a Pareto frontier, a set of optimal devices is selected for further analysis. The performance of the SWINGO system is also compared to an alternative (mono-directional) inertial wave energy converter, the Inertial Sea Wave Energy Converter (ISWEC), to highlight the differences in techno-economic outcomes. Both systems are evaluated at two different installation sites: Pantelleria island and the North Sea in Denmark, with a focus on the directional wave scatter at each location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials have revolutionized the battery industry by enhancing energy storage capacities and charging speeds, and their application in hydrogen (H2) storage likewise holds strong potential, though with distinct challenges and mechanisms. H2 is a crucial future zero-carbon energy vector given its high gravimetric energy density, which far exceeds that of liquid hydrocarbons. However, its low volumetric energy density in gaseous form currently requires storage under high pressure or at low temperature. This review critically examines the current and prospective landscapes of solid-state H2 storage technologies, with a focus on pragmatic integration of advanced materials such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), magnesium-based hybrids, and novel sorbents into future energy networks. These materials, enhanced by nanotechnology, could significantly improve the efficiency and capacity of H2 storage systems by optimizing H2 adsorption at the nanoscale and improving the kinetics of H2 uptake and release. We discuss various H2 storage mechanisms—physisorption, chemisorption, and the Kubas interaction—analyzing their impact on the energy efficiency and scalability of storage solutions. The review also addresses the potential of "smart MOFs", single-atom catalyst-doped metal hydrides, MXenes and entropy-driven alloys to enhance the performance and broaden the application range of H2 storage systems, stressing the need for innovative materials and system integration to satisfy future energy demands. High-throughput screening, combined with machine learning algorithms, is noted as a promising approach to identify patterns and predict the behavior of novel materials under various conditions, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with experimental trials. In closing, we discuss the increasing involvement of various companies in solid-state H2 storage, particularly in prototype vehicles, from a techno-economic perspective. This forward-looking perspective underscores the necessity for ongoing material innovation and system optimization to meet the stringent energy demands and ambitious sustainability targets increasingly in demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early‐stage cost evaluation during catalyst development holds the potential to accelerate the commercialization and deployment of advanced catalytic materials for sustainable chemical processes. The modeling and assessment of manufacturing costs as early as the laboratory synthesis scale, for example, focusing on materials costs and synthesis performance metrics, can support the development of an experimental–economic feedback loop that enables rapid insight into cost drivers associated with catalyst synthesis and highlights areas that require focused research and development effort. Ultimately, this feedback loop supports the realization of an economic understanding of the overall synthetic process and highlights opportunities to reduce costs, serving as the foundation for the scale‐up of catalyst manufacturing. Herein, a case study is presented utilizing CatCost, a free and publicly available estimation tool for the evaluation of catalyst manufacturing costs, to perform a cost‐responsive optimization of the synthesis of nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs). It is demonstrated that reagent substitutions with more cost‐effective analogs, coupled with stoichiometric optimization, afford a 58% reduction in raw materials cost without changing the product yield or properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical industry, a cornerstone of the global economy essential for modern life, has raised significant concerns due to its unique nature. Chemical technologies often require high energy inputs, involving ecotoxic reagents thus assessing risks from an economic standpoint becomes complex. While the economic aspects of chemical technologies have been discussed and economic tools have been used to inform investment decisions in this field, many fundamental issues remain unexplored, such as the clear definition of chemical technology economics and the reasons for its importance. The primary contribution of this article is to synthesize insights into these fundamental issues and propose pathways for future research in chemical technology economics. This review is divided into two sections: the first provides an overview of the significance of economic factors in chemical technologies, and the second explores the fundamentals of economics and their application to chemical technology considerations. Our research underscores that economic theories significantly influence the profile of chemical technologies, viewing the chemical sector as a dual asset. First, the sector has a unique opportunity to lead the way in promoting sustainable economic development, and second, it can adopt economic behaviors that align with environmental and societal needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass pyrolysis is the most effective process to convert abundant organic matter into value-added products that could be an alternative to depleting fossil fuels. A comprehensive understanding of the biomass pyrolysis is essential in designing the experiments. However, pyrolysis is a complex process dependent on multiple feedstock characteristics, such as biomass consisting of volatile matter, moisture content, fixed carbon, and ash content, all of which can influence yield formation. On top of that, product composition can also be affected by the particle size, shape, susceptors used, and pre-treatment conditions of the feedstock. Compared to conventional pyrolysis, microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) is a novel thermochemical process that improves internal heat transfer. MAP experiments complicate the operation due to additional governing factors (i.e. operating parameters) such as heating rate, temperature, and microwave power. In most instances, a single parameter or the interaction of parameters, i.e. the influence of other parameter integration, plays a crucial role in pyrolysis. Although various studies on a few operating parameters or feedstock characteristics have been discussed in the literature, a comprehensive review still needs to be provided. Consequently, this review paper deconstructed biomass and its sources, including microwave-assisted pyrolysis, and discussed the impact of operating parameters and biomass properties on pyrolysis products. This paper addresses the challenge of handling multivariate problems in MAP and delivers solutions by application of the machine learning technique to minimise experimental effort. Techno-economic analysis of the biomass pyrolysis process and suggestions for future research are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Production of cheese whey in the EU exceeded 55 million tons in 2022, resulting in lactose-rich effluents that pose significant environmental challenges. To address this issue, the present study investigated cheese-whey treatment via membrane filtration and the utilization of its components as fermentation feedstock. A simulation model was developed for an industrial-scale facility located in Italy's Apulia region, designed to process 539 m3/day of untreated cheese-whey. The model integrated experimental data from ethanolic fermentation using a selected strain of Kluyveromyces marxianus in lactose-supplemented media, along with relevant published data. Results: The simulation was divided into three different sections. The first section focused on cheese-whey pretreatment through membrane filtration, enabling the recovery of 56%w/w whey protein concentrate, process water recirculation, and lactose concentration. In the second section, the recovered lactose was directed towards fermentation and downstream anhydrous ethanol production. The third section encompassed anaerobic digestion of organic residue, sludge handling, and combined heat and power production. Moreover, three different scenarios were produced based on ethanol yield on lactose (YE/L), biomass yield on lactose, and final lactose concentration in the medium. A techno-economic assessment based on the collected data was performed as well as a sensitivity analysis focused on economic parameters, encompassing considerations on cheese-whey by assessing its economical impact as a credit for the simulated facility, dictated by a gate fee, or as a cost by considering it a raw material. The techno-economic analysis revealed different minimum ethanol selling prices across the three scenarios. The best performance was obtained in the scenario presenting a YE/L = 0.45 g/g, with a minimum selling price of 1.43 €/kg. Finally, sensitivity analysis highlighted the model's dependence on the price or credit associated with cheese-whey handling. Conclusions: This work highlighted the importance of policy implementation in this kind of study, demonstrating how a gate fee approach applied to cheese-whey procurement positively impacted the final minimum selling price for ethanol across all scenarios. Additionally, considerations should be made about the implementation of the simulated process as a plug-in addition in to existing processes dealing with dairy products or handling multiple biomasses to produce ethanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decarbonization goals of each country necessitate the utilization of renewable resources, with photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine (WT) generators being the most common forms. However, spatial constraints, especially on islands, can hinder the expansion of PV and WT installations. In this context, wave energy emerges as a viable supplementary renewable source. Islands are candidate regions to accommodate wave power resources due to their abundant wave potential. While previous studies have explored the wave energy potential of the Aegean Sea, they have not focused on the electricity production and techno-economic aspects of wave power facilities in this area. This paper aims to fill this knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive techno-economic analysis to evaluate the feasibility of deploying an offshore wave power facility in the Aegean Sea, Greece. The analysis includes a detailed sensitivity assessment of CAPEX and OPEX variability, calculating key indicators like LCOE and NPV to determine the economic viability and profitability of wave energy investments in the region. Additionally, the study identifies hydraulic efficiency and CAPEX thresholds that could make wave power more competitive compared with traditional energy sources. The techno-economic analysis is conducted for a 45 MW offshore floating wave power plant situated between eastern Crete and Kasos—one of the most wave-rich areas in Greece. Despite eastern Crete's promising wave conditions, the study reveals that with current techno-economic parameters—CAPEX of 7 million EUR/MW, OPEX of 6%, a 20-year lifetime, and 25% efficiency—the wave energy in this area yields a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 1417 EUR/MWh. This rate is significantly higher than the prevailing LCOE in Crete, which is between 237 and 300 EUR/MWh. Nonetheless, this study suggests that the LCOE of wave energy in Crete could potentially decrease to as low as 69 EUR/MWh in the future under improved conditions, including a CAPEX of 1 million EUR/MW, an OPEX of 1%, a 30-year lifetime, and 35% hydraulic efficiency for wave converters. It is recommended that manufacturing companies target these specific thresholds to ensure the economic viability of wave power in the waters of the Aegean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As China's economy and society continue to advance, there has been a notable enhancement in the quality of life for its people. However, the escalating energy consumption in buildings, particularly for heating and cooling purposes, has emerged as a pressing concern, accounting for nearly 60% of the overall energy consumption. In response to this challenge, heat pumps have emerged as a promising solution by efficiently meeting the demand for heating and cooling. Among these options, wastewater-source heat pumps (WWSHP) have garnered attention as an innovative choice, harnessing the waste heat in available wastewater resources in China to provide efficient heating and cooling services. The objective of this study was to comprehensively investigate the decarbonisation potential associated with sewage source heat pumps in China. By employing both techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment methods, we conducted a thorough comparison between conventional heating and cooling systems and various heat pump systems. The results of our analysis demonstrate that WWSHPs not only exhibit the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also yield the lowest production costs. Our findings reveal that the potential capacity of WWSHPs amounted to a total of 2.4 EJ in 2020, with the capability to mitigate 99 Mt CO2-eq emissions and achieve cost savings of 24 billion RMB. Importantly, WWSHPs' maximum potential cannot be fully realised by replacing heating alone. However, by replacing both heating and cooling options, WWSHPs unlock substantial decarbonisation potential and cost savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of chemical processes holds promise for a sustainable and climate-neutral chemical industry. This study explores pathways for electrifying syngas production, targeting its utilization in low-temperature Fischer-Tropsch (LT-FT) technology with a hydrocarbon production capacity of 222 kton/yr. Three electrified scenarios are juxtaposed against a reference case of autothermal reforming of biomethane. In the first two scenarios, H 2 is produced via water electrolysis, with CO obtained either through CO 2 electrolysis (Electrolysis case) or electrified reverse water-gas shift (E-rWGS case). The third scenario leverages captured CO 2 and biomethane for electrified combined steam and dry reforming of methane (CSDRM case), exhibiting the lowest net emissions of 0.50 ton CO2 /ton product. All electrified scenarios achieve net negative emissions under the EU's 2030 target of 40% overall renewable energy production. A detailed techno-economic analysis reveals significant feasibility challenges with the Electrolysis, E-rWGS, and CSDRM cases exhibiting a Levelized Cost Of Production (LCOP) of $501, $457, and $251 per barrel (bbl) of Fischer-Tropsch crude, respectively. Future projections suggest considerable capital cost reductions for electrolyzers, potentially rendering the Electrolysis case feasible, particularly under extremely low electricity prices of 3.3 $/MWh. Careful consideration of green electricity and CO 2 utilization scenarios is vital for implementing CO 2 -negative technologies effectively. [Display omitted] • Three layouts of electrified syngas production for FT synthesis are evaluated. • CSDRM leads at an LCOP of 251 $/bbl of FT crude, emitting 0.50 ton CO2 /ton product. • Electrolyzers can become cost-competitive for electricity price below 3.3 $/MWh. • Political support and advancements will dictate the viability of such options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maritime industry is a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, largely due to ships running on fossil fuels. Transitioning to hydrogen-powered marine transportation in the Mediterranean Sea requires the development of a network of hydrogen refueling stations across the region to ensure a steady supply of green hydrogen. This paper explores the technoeconomic viability of harnessing wave energy from the Mediterranean Sea to produce green hydrogen for hydrogen-powered ships. Four promising island locations—near Sardegna, Galite, Western Crete, and Eastern Crete—were selected based on their favorable wave potential for green hydrogen production. A thorough analysis of the costs associated with wave power facilities and hydrogen production was conducted to accurately model economic viability. The techno-economic results suggest that, with anticipated cost reductions in wave energy converters, the levelized cost of hydrogen could decrease to as low as 3.6 €/kg, 4.3 €/kg, 5.5 €/kg, and 3.9 €/kg for Sardegna, Galite, Western Crete, and Eastern Crete, respectively. Furthermore, the study estimates that, in order for the hydrogen-fueled ships to compete effectively with their oil-fueled counterparts, the levelized cost of hydrogen must drop below 3.5 €/kg. Thus, despite the competitive costs, further measures are necessary to make hydrogen-fueled ships a viable alternative to conventional diesel-fueled ships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A small-scale (up to 5 kWe) biogas-solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) energy system is an envisioned system, which can be used to meet both electrical and thermal energy demand of off-grid settlements. SOFC systems are reported to be more efficient than alternatives like internal combustion engines (ICE). In addition to energy recovery, implementation of biogas-SOFC systems can enhance sanitation among these settlements. However, the capital investment costs and the operation and maintenance costs of a biogas-SOFC energy system are currently higher than the existing alternatives. From previous works, H2S removal by biochar was proposed as a potential local cost-effective alternative. This research demonstrates the techno-economic potential of locally produced biochars made from cow manure, jackfruit leaves, and jack fruit branches in rural Uganda for purifying the biogas prior to SOFC use. Results revealed that the use of biochar from cow manure and jack fruit leaves can reduce H2S to below the desired 1 ppm and substitute alternative biogas treatments like activated carbon. These experimental results were then translated to demonstrate how this biochar would improve the economic feasibility for the implementation of biogas-SOFC systems. It is likely that the operation and maintenance cost of a biogas-SOFC energy system can in the long run be reduced by over 80%. Also, the use of internal reforming as opposed to external reforming can greatly reduce the system capital cost by over 25% and hence further increase the chances of system economic feasibility. By applying the proposed cost reduction strategies coupled with subsidies such as tax reduction or exemption, the biogas-SOFC energy system could become economically competitive with the already existing technologies for off-grid electricity generation, like solar photovoltaic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports results from a stochastic techno-economic analysis (TEA) model that assessed the financial feasibility of forest biomass harvest for low-carbon bioenergy feedstocks in the hardwood region of the Northeast United States. It analyzed three 24-year scenarios based on primary data collected from the mixed product harvest with whole tree harvesting systems that primarily produce clean chips, dirty chips, or pulpwood and dirty chips. Using a joint product costing approach, proportional costs of shared processes were allocated to different products on a mass basis. Uncertainty associated with key stochastic variables was incorporated into the model to generate net present values (NPV), benefit–cost ratios (BCR), and minimum selling prices (MSP) via Monte Carlo simulation. The clean chip scenario produced an NPV of $1.36 million and a BCR of 1.03, while the pulpwood scenario's NPV and BCR ($0.06 million and 1.02) were lower, and the dirty chip scenario generated negative NPV (− $0.02 million) and a BCR of 0.99. The probabilities of achieving positive NPVs for all three scenarios fell between 47 and 56%. The mean MSP for one clean chip scenario was $94.03/dry Mg, while the mean MSPs for two dirty chip scenarios were $74.79/dry Mg and $75.93/dry Mg. NPV results were most sensitive to forest biomass feedstock harvesting production levels, transportation distances, and delivered prices, followed by diesel fuel consumption for in-wood harvest and diesel fuel price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the industry has produced sugar-derived ethanol from the conventional method of fermentation for hundreds of years, other effective routes involving the direct transformation of carbohydrates still remain extremely rare. Very recently, an innovative chemo-catalytic method driven by the aqueous-phase catalysis was created for the synthesis of cellulosic ethanol, making a great breakthrough in the common ways as it can theoretically utilize all of the carbon atoms in sugars with faster kinetics; up to now, results from the relevant studies have been accumulated to a certain extent, but the periodic conclusions in this field are unfortunately absent. For this reason, this work tries to offer an overview of the cellulosic ethanol produced by chemo-catalytic routes, highlighting the present knowledge in relation to the technical efficiency, catalytic mechanisms as well as practical applications. At first, the advanced progress on the increasing efficiency from a varied type of catalytic systems are extensively discussed, which involves the specific functions of hybrid components from different strategies; meanwhile, the general influences of processing conditions, such as the hydrothermal severity and aqueous environments, are also identified. Subsequently, possible mechanisms behind the chemo-catalytic processes are widely elaborated by analyzing a number of experimental cases associated with the reaction network and its kinetic models. After that, the actual effects of this technique on the real biomass are collected to identify the positive/negative interactions between multiple components, together with the potential solutions on the semi-continuous processes of pilot scale application. The techno-economic analysis (TEA) is also calculated and compared with other similar methods, such as fermentation and gasification. Finally, several proposals aimed at upgrading the whole chain of chemo-catalytic processes are clearly provided, which may function as a guideline for future studies on the production of bio-ethanol from lignocellulosic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a comprehensive comparison of the poplar wood fermentation process and fermentation-coupled gasification process was carried out from energy, environmental, and economic perspectives. The process of fuel ethanol from poplar wood fermentation (Case 1) and fuel ethanol from poplar wood fermentation coupled with lignin gasification for jet fuel (Case 2) was simulated using aspen plus software. The exergy analysis showed that the exergy efficiency of Case 1 and Case 2 were 36% and 35.6%, respectively. The product separation process contributed the most to the exergy losses, and the Case 2 had a 4.5% increase in revenue exergy over Case 1. The life cycle assessment (LCA) results showed that biofuels had a lower environmental impact than conventional petrol, and Case 2 was lower than Case 1. The production stage contributed the most to the global warming potential (GWP) of Case 1 and Case 2 with 49.4% and 51.2%, respectively. The techno-economic analysis showed that the fixed investment in Case 2 had increased by $112.9 million, and the annual operating costs had increased by $27 million compared to Case 1. The costs of fuel production in Case 1 and Case 2 were $1079.3/ton and $1033.4/ton, respectively. Highlights: Fermentation to ethanol (Case 1) and its coupled pathway (Case 2) were simulated. The simulation results were analyzed in terms of energy, environment, and economy. Minimum selling price of biofuel was $0.054/MJ in Case 1 and $0.055/MJ in Case 2. Case 2 has less impact on the environment than Case 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This critical review examines the potential of household biogas technology in Africa, focusing on biogas production and techno‐economic feasibility studies. The review highlights the benefits of biogas technology, including renewable energy generation, waste management, and improved public health. A significant portion of Africa's rural population, approximately 60%, grapples with limited access to reliable power sources. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. Biogas production stands out as one of the promising renewable energy sources. However, it also discusses the challenges and limitations of implementing this technology on a continental scale. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. The study concludes by recommending strategies for scaling up biogas technology in Africa, including capacity building, technology transfer, and innovative financing models. The review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working towards sustainable energy solutions in Africa.

Furfural is potentially produced from lignocellulose waste of biorefinery processes and is widely used as a value-added in various chemical industries. However, the purification of furfural should be conducted to obtain high purity. This work aims to synthesize, design, and optimize the furfural production using some alternative distillation processes by simulation using Super Pro and ASPEN software. The pretreatment process of producing crude furfural from empty fruit bunch waste is also evaluated. The production cost of $0.23/kg of crude furfural (5 %) was obtained in the preliminary process. In the purification process, the sequenced distillation process was less prospective than the extractive distillation based on the simulation basis and economic evaluation. The extractive distillation using n‑butyl chloride performed better than toluene and benzene as the furfural recovery, and the purity was 98.60 % and 99.94 %, respectively. The payback period (PBP), internal rate return (IRR), and net present value (NPV) also indicated the great performance of the extractive distillation process with values of 1.24 years, 36.04 %, and $14,591,500, respectively. Therefore, the simulation, design, and economic evaluation presented promising results that are feasible for plant establishment.

Abstract Hydrogen, a crucial clean and renewable energy source, addresses pressing challenges of energy security and environmental pollution. Water electrolysis for hydrogen production is a promising approach to satisfy the growing demand for sustainable energy. This study uniquely performs a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production using both Alkaline and Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, a first in the field to evaluate their performance comprehensively with advanced Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques. Leveraging TOPSIS, WASPAS interval methods, and the Best Worst Method (BWM) with fuzzy logic, this research introduces a novel evaluation framework that incorporates a wide-ranging set of factors, including environmental, technical, technological, economic, and social aspects, divided into 30 sub-criteria. These insights offer a comprehensive understanding of each electrolyser's strengths and weaknesses, helping stakeholders make informed decisions about cost reduction in hydrogen production technologies. This has not been done before. Although cost results favour Alkaline electrolysers, PEM electrolysers are attractive for specific applications where their benefits justify the higher initial cost, choosing between Alkaline and PEM electrolysers dependent on a given hydrogen production project's requirements.

The production of food-grade salt from crude solar salt has been examined through a techno-economic evaluation. This study aimed to investigate a salt factory to analyze its technical and economic aspects to determine the precise parameters for improving the quality of food-grade salt. The primary process of this factory involves grinding, washing, draining, drying, and fortification, supported by equipment like brine management, conveyors, sieves, and packaging. The proposed salt plant, designed for a 3-ton daily output over 15 years, requires 30 months for construction and a 4-month startup. The total capital outlay is USD 1,921,000, with USD 310,000 for technology and equipment. Economic indicators, including a Net Present Value (NPV) of USD 7,862,000, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 46.48%, payback in 1.56 years, and a Return on Investment (ROI) of 64.28%, demonstrate feasibility. Establishing a salt plant in Indonesia supports food-grade salt production, stabilizes solar salt prices and enhances the welfare of traditional salt farmers. Ultimately, the results of this study can provide valuable insights for evaluating the feasibility of establishing a food-grade salt production plant in Indonesia.

Abstract Background Production of cheese whey in the EU exceeded 55 million tons in 2022, resulting in lactose-rich effluents that pose significant environmental challenges. To address this issue, the present study investigated cheese-whey treatment via membrane filtration and the utilization of its components as fermentation feedstock. A simulation model was developed for an industrial-scale facility located in Italy’s Apulia region, designed to process 539 m3/day of untreated cheese-whey. The model integrated experimental data from ethanolic fermentation using a selected strain of Kluyveromyces marxianus in lactose-supplemented media, along with relevant published data. Results The simulation was divided into three different sections. The first section focused on cheese-whey pretreatment through membrane filtration, enabling the recovery of 56%w/w whey protein concentrate, process water recirculation, and lactose concentration. In the second section, the recovered lactose was directed towards fermentation and downstream anhydrous ethanol production. The third section encompassed anaerobic digestion of organic residue, sludge handling, and combined heat and power production. Moreover, three different scenarios were produced based on ethanol yield on lactose (YE/L), biomass yield on lactose, and final lactose concentration in the medium. A techno-economic assessment based on the collected data was performed as well as a sensitivity analysis focused on economic parameters, encompassing considerations on cheese-whey by assessing its economical impact as a credit for the simulated facility, dictated by a gate fee, or as a cost by considering it a raw material. The techno-economic analysis revealed different minimum ethanol selling prices across the three scenarios. The best performance was obtained in the scenario presenting a YE/L = 0.45 g/g, with a minimum selling price of 1.43 €/kg. Finally, sensitivity analysis highlighted the model’s dependence on the price or credit associated with cheese-whey handling. Conclusions This work highlighted the importance of policy implementation in this kind of study, demonstrating how a gate fee approach applied to cheese-whey procurement positively impacted the final minimum selling price for ethanol across all scenarios. Additionally, considerations should be made about the implementation of the simulated process as a plug-in addition in to existing processes dealing with dairy products or handling multiple biomasses to produce ethanol.

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative to meet the growing demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources. Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in depleted gas reservoirs holds significant potential for large-scale energy storage and the seamless integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, due to its capacity to address challenges associated with the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, ensuring a steady and reliable energy supply. Leveraging the existing infrastructure and well-characterized geological formations, depleted gas reservoirs offer an attractive option for large-scale hydrogen storage implementation. However, significant knowledge gaps regarding storage performance hinder the commercialization of UHS operation. Hydrogen deliverability, hydrogen trapping, and the equation of state are key areas with limited understanding. This literature review critically analyzes and synthesizes existing research on hydrogen storage performance during underground storage in depleted gas reservoirs; it then provides a high-level risk assessment and an overview of the techno-economics of UHS. The significance of this review lies in its consolidation of current knowledge, highlighting unresolved issues and proposing areas for future research. Addressing these gaps will advance hydrogen-based energy systems and support the transition to a sustainable energy landscape. Facilitating efficient and safe deployment of UHS in depleted gas reservoirs will assist in unlocking hydrogen’s full potential as a clean and renewable energy carrier. In addition, this review aids policymakers and the scientific community in making informed decisions regarding hydrogen storage technologies.

ABSTRACT The Additively‐Manufactured, System‐Integrated Tip (AMSIT) project is leveraging the flexibility of 3D printing to integrate several technologies in a wind turbine blade tip, while reducing the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) produced. The design integration is demonstrated for a 200‐kW–scale turbine with 13‐m blades, with the outer 15% of the blade replaced with a 3D‐printed design. Aerodynamic performance is enhanced without increasing swept area through inclusion of a winglet and surface texturing, both challenging for traditional manufacturing. Longevity and durability are improved through integrated lightning and leading edge erosion protection. Increased power, reduced repair frequency, and ease of repair through blade modularity all contribute to reduced LCOE. The analysis is also extended to modern MW‐scale designs to estimate the impact of the technology at scale, demonstrating the potential to reduce LCOE significantly for modern onshore turbines, with even higher potential savings offshore.

While green hydrogen production technologies like electrolysis have reached commercial scale, the primary challenge centers on efficient, and economically viable transportation of hydrogen. This study proposes an integrated geospatial techno-economic modeling approach to optimize hydrogen transportation through blending in existing pipelines. The simulations strategically locate green hydrogen production and blending points. The paper evaluates blending ratios, flow dynamics, and operating parameters to optimize hydrogen blending in natural gas pipelines. A techno-economic analysis quantifies costs and revenues across the supply chain, identifying the most economically viable hydrogen blending locations. The approach is validated through a case study in Wyoming, providing insights for industry stakeholders considering hydrogen-natural gas blending as a transition strategy. This integrated method offers a robust decision support tool for leveraging existing infrastructure to realize hydrogen's potential as a sustainable energy vector contributing to the broader goal of cleaner energy alternatives. [Display omitted] • Map energy infrastructure to optimize hydrogen production and injection points. • Simulate blending ratios, flow dynamics, and parameters for system optimization. • Perform a cost-benefit analysis to identify optimal hydrogen blending locations. • Validate the model with a Wyoming case study for industry stakeholder insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising concerns over fossil fuel depletion and plastic pollution have driven research into biodegradable alternatives, such as polylactic acid (PLA). Microbial fermentation is preferred for lactic acid production due to its ability to yield enantiomerically pure lactic acid, which is essential for PLA synthesis, unlike the racemic mixture from chemical synthesis. However, commercial lactic acid production using first-generation feedstocks faces challenges related to cost and sustainability. Macroalgae offer a promising alternative with their rapid growth rates and carbon capture capabilities. This review explores recent technological advancements in macroalgae physicochemical characterization, optimization of fermentation conditions, and innovative pretreatment methods to enhance sugar conversion rates for L-LA production. It also covers downstream processes for L-LA recovery, presenting a complete macroalgal biorefinery system. Environmental impacts and economic prospects are assessed through exergy and techno-economic analyses. By valorizing macroalgae detritus, this study underscores its potential to support a sustainable biorefinery industry, addressing economic feasibility and environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green tides, characterised by massive blooms of the seaweed Ulva, pose a significant threat to coastal economies and marine ecosystems. This review explores the potential repurposing of harmful Ulva blooms for carbon sequestration, addressing the critical global issue of CO2 emission. We conducted a comprehensive literature review and examined the conversion of shoreline Ulva biomass into biochar through pyrolysis, a process that can be implemented directly at biorefineries. This approach not only facilitates carbon sequestration but also mitigates greenhouse gas emissions and enhances soil quality through soil amendments. Our review covers data from 2008 to 2022, focusing on the carbon sequestration potential of Ulva during green tide episodes in China and Korea. Our assessment indicates that Ulva biomass has the potential to sequester approximately 3.85 million tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e), with about 1.93 million tons of CO2e potentially stabilised through biochar conversion. Furthermore, we conducted a hypothetical techno-economic analysis assessing the sustainability and economic viability of Ulva cultivation and biochar production for CO2 sequestration. These findings suggest that the combined biomass and biochar production could be financially viable and profitable. Despite the challenges posed by green tides, our review highlights their potential role in mitigating global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide (GO) is the most sought-after constituent in developing solutions for problems across biosensing and diagnostics to implants, automotive to space missions, and manufacturing to waste rehabilitation. GO is costly if procured externally and time-intensive if produced by conventional processes. In this paper, GO is synthesized using an efficient, cost-effective method at a much faster rate. The quality of GO is at par with the standards, and techno-economic analysis reveals that the proposed method took 20–25% less time for synthesis than practised methods. The proposed method is profitable, and the payback period is around 6 to 7 months. Lipase, successfully immobilized on synthesized GO, showed four times free enzyme activity with 75% enzyme loading. This work indicates that the GO from the proposed method, on ultrasonication generates nanometric GO (nano-GO) that are highly biocompatible for lipase-immobilized biosensor applications. The biorecognition module fabricated using GO showed a response time of under 10 min and compatibility with samples with pH between 6 and 9 with a temperature range of 20–45 °C. The biosensor showed a 5.28 µg/mL limit of detection (LOD) and a 1 U/µg/mL sensitivity with a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 5–250 µg/mL. Retention of 60% activity when stored at 10 °C after ten days was observed. The biorecognition module showed resilience to up to 30 mg/L of metal interferents and contaminants. The biorecognition was found to be significant for colorimetry-based paper biosensing. A colorimetric biorecognition module to detect triglyceride (TG) was designed using graphene oxide (GO) nanomaterial, synthesized by modifying previously reported methods. The method reported in the study is 20 to 25% fast and simultaneously provides an excellent quality product. The proposed method was 200% more economical. It was observed that as part of the solid matrix, the GO NPs are an excellent candidate for lipase-immobilized colorimetric biosensors for triglyceride detection. The matrix met the necessary benchmarks of a colorimetric biosensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Additively‐Manufactured, System‐Integrated Tip (AMSIT) project is leveraging the flexibility of 3D printing to integrate several technologies in a wind turbine blade tip, while reducing the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) produced. The design integration is demonstrated for a 200‐kW–scale turbine with 13‐m blades, with the outer 15% of the blade replaced with a 3D‐printed design. Aerodynamic performance is enhanced without increasing swept area through inclusion of a winglet and surface texturing, both challenging for traditional manufacturing. Longevity and durability are improved through integrated lightning and leading edge erosion protection. Increased power, reduced repair frequency, and ease of repair through blade modularity all contribute to reduced LCOE. The analysis is also extended to modern MW‐scale designs to estimate the impact of the technology at scale, demonstrating the potential to reduce LCOE significantly for modern onshore turbines, with even higher potential savings offshore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study proposes a model of an autonomous HRFS installed on different sites in 20 Saudi cities powered by renewable clean energy sources. The station is fully powered by photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines involving an electrolyzer and hydrogen tank for producing and storing hydrogen. Three scenarios are investigated to propose an optimized model, namely Scenario 1 containing (PV-Wind-Battery) system, Scenario 2 with (Wind-Battery) technologies, and Scenario 3 with (PV-Battery) components. The HRFS is expected to feed the load hydrogen demand of 25 hydrogen cars with a storage tank capacity of 5 kg. The simulation is carried out using the well-known HOMER software and the description of the technical parameters of the renewable plant together with a detailed economic feasibility for the investigated cities are also performed. Furthermore, the optimization process executed demonstrates a competitive levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) especially for the third scenario with a LCOH varying within $12–15.9/kg and LCOE in range $ 0.332–0.414/kWh, for all 20 cities. For instance, encouraging lowest values of net present cost (NPC) and LCOE are obtained for the futuristic NEOM mega city relatively to the first and third scenarios with values (NPC = $1,576,000, LCOE = $ 0.627/kWh) and (NPC = $830,494, LCOE = $ 0.332/kWh), respectively. On another hand, thorough analysis of PV/Wind hydrogen technoeconomic operation is provided including improvements recommendations, scenarios comparison and environmental impact discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the decarbonization of India's electricity grid using ammonia in power plants. It focuses on ammonia produced in Western Australia and transported to India, co-fired with high rank coal, and compared with power plants utilizing carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). The study assesses the overall costs and the life cycle greenhouse gas (LC GHG) emissions for both new plants and retrofits. For 20% gray, blue, and green ammonia, the levelized cost of electricity is 86, 89, 125 $/MWh, with corresponding LC GHG emissions of 1,234, 1,079, and 1,062 kg CO2e/MWh. Co-firing with green ammonia, though more expensive than blue ammonia, yields lower CO2 emissions. Conversely, reducing the same amount of direct CO2 emission via CCS costs $84/MWh and a LC GHG emission of 1,227 kg CO2e/MWh. While CCS is cheaper, it results in higher LC GHG. There is a trade-off between cost and emissions across the strategies. Under scenarios with low capacity factors or reduced ammonia production costs, coal-ammonia co-firing could become more economical and greener than the CCS. This study provides quantitative insights for policymakers and project developers. However, it is crucial for decision-makers to consider several factors: (1) the potential impact of social resistance to CCS; (2) the time required for large-scale commercialization of CCS technology, which is expected to be significantly longer than the implementation time for a coal-ammonia co-firing decarbonization strategy; (3) the potential of either CCS or ammonia-coal co-firing strategy to enhance India's electricity mix, thus contributing to energy security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne wind energy (AWE) technology has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional wind turbines, harnessing stronger and more consistent winds at higher altitudes. This paper explores the potential of AWE systems in Turkey through a case study of the Hatay region. The study begins with the selection of the optimal two-parameter Weibull distribution model and compares various parameter estimation methods to accurately estimate wind speeds using wind speed data. This analysis is followed by a life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify the global warming potential (GWP) and cumulative energy demand (CED) associated with the deployment of an AWE plant in Turkey. Additionally, a techno-economic assessment evaluates the economic viability of AWE systems over their operational lifetime through detailed cost modelling. Experimental verifications and comparisons with existing renewable energy technologies are also presented to validate the findings. The results demonstrate that AWE systems offer significant environmental and economic benefits, providing critical insights for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders. This study not only contributes to the growing body of AWE research, but also offers a replicable methodological framework for assessing AWE potential in other regions with similar wind energy prospects.

The maritime industry is a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, largely due to ships running on fossil fuels. Transitioning to hydrogen-powered marine transportation in the Mediterranean Sea requires the development of a network of hydrogen refueling stations across the region to ensure a steady supply of green hydrogen. This paper explores the technoeconomic viability of harnessing wave energy from the Mediterranean Sea to produce green hydrogen for hydrogen-powered ships. Four promising island locations—near Sardegna, Galite, Western Crete, and Eastern Crete—were selected based on their favorable wave potential for green hydrogen production. A thorough analysis of the costs associated with wave power facilities and hydrogen production was conducted to accurately model economic viability. The techno-economic results suggest that, with anticipated cost reductions in wave energy converters, the levelized cost of hydrogen could decrease to as low as 3.6 €/kg, 4.3 €/kg, 5.5 €/kg, and 3.9 €/kg for Sardegna, Galite, Western Crete, and Eastern Crete, respectively. Furthermore, the study estimates that, in order for the hydrogen-fueled ships to compete effectively with their oil-fueled counterparts, the levelized cost of hydrogen must drop below 3.5 €/kg. Thus, despite the competitive costs, further measures are necessary to make hydrogen-fueled ships a viable alternative to conventional diesel-fueled ships.

Abstract In this study, the effects of nanoparticle addition to internal combustion engines were investigated. Firstly, engine coolant was prepared by mixing nanoparticles with water in different ratios (0%, 0.15%, 0.3%, 0.5% and 0.6%). Nanoparticles were investigated by SEM and XRD techniques. Then, the prepared coolants with different ratios of nanoparticles were tested on the engine at different loads (2.5 kW, 3.8 kW, 6 kW, 9 kW and 10 kW), and their heat transfer performances were investigated. Then, an ANN model was trained using the results, and the optimal TiO2 nanoparticle doped mixing ratio (0.26%) was determined. At the last stage, the techno-economic analysis of the TiO2 added coolant determined with the help of ANN was carried out, and the payback period and cumulative net present value were determined. Unlike other studies, ANN and economic analyses were performed and a contribution to the literature for the use of nanoparticle doped liquids was presented. The results show that the highest improvement in heat transfer performance is in the case of 0.6% nanoparticle addition with 40.8%. According to the ANN study, the highest performance increase is with the addition of 0.26% nanoparticles. The economic analysis made according to the result of the ANN study shows that the payback period will be less than 4 years.

Abstract Background Itaconic acid is a promising bio-based building block for the synthesis of polymers, plastics, fibers and other materials. In recent years, Ustilago cynodontis has emerged as an additional itaconate producing non-conventional yeast, mainly due to its high acid tolerance, which significantly reduces saline waste coproduction during fermentation and downstream processing. As a result, this could likely improve the economic viability of the itaconic acid production process with Ustilaginaceae. Results In this study, we characterized a previously engineered itaconate hyper-producing Ustilago cynodontis strain in controlled fed-batch fermentations to determine the minimal and optimal pH for itaconate production. Under optimal fermentation conditions, the hyper-producing strain can achieve the theoretical maximal itaconate yield during the production phase in a fermentation at pH 3.6, but at the expense of considerable base addition. Base consumption is strongly reduced at the pH of 2.8, but at cost of production yield, titer, and rate. A techno-economic analysis based on the entire process demonstrated that savings due to an additional decrease in pH control reagents and saline waste costs cannot compensate the yield loss observed at the highly acidic pH value 2.8. Conclusions Overall, this work provides novel data regarding the balancing of yield, titer, and rate in the context of pH, thereby contributing to a better understanding of the itaconic acid production process with Ustilago cynodontis, especially from an economic perspective.

This research focuses on techno-economic analysis of the statistically optimized biodiesel production using African Pear Seed Oil and activated empty palm fruit bunch biocatalyst to ascertain the viability of producing African pear seed oil methyl ester (APSOME). Central composite design of response surface methodology (RSM) was used for the optimization of the process variables. The acid activated empty palm fruit bunch ash (AAEPFBA) catalyst used was synthesized from waste palm fruit bunch, and modified by adding H3PO4 acid in a ratio of 1:2 (g/ml). The RSM model predicted that the highest conversion yield of APSOME would be 89.3 %. The experiment performed yielded 90.1 %, which is in agreement with the predicted value at the following optimized reaction conditions: reaction temperature of 62.21 °C, time of 3.17 h, 10.2:1 methanol/oil molar ratio, 3.18 wt% catalyst concentration, and agitation speed of 326.51 rpm. It was established that the cost of labour will affect the profitability of produced APSOME. The overall result showed that AAEPFBA and APSO raw materials are viable and useful for sustainable biodiesel production.

South Africa currently has the highest carbon emission intensity per kilowatt of electricity generation globally, and its government intends to reduce it. Some of the measures taken by the government include a reduction of emissions in the building sector using solar water heating (SWH) systems. However, there is currently no study in the country that comprehensively assesses the technical, economic, and environmental impact of SWH systems across the country. This study therefore used the System Advisor Model (SAM) to model two different technologies of SWH systems (i.e., flat plate (FPC) and evacuated tube (EPC) SWH) at five different locations (i.e., Pretoria, Upington, Kimberley, Durban, and Cape Town) strategically selected across the country. According to the study, the optimum azimuth for both the evacuated tube and flat plate SWH system in South Africa is 0°. Installing FPC and EPC at the different locations would yield payback periods of 3.2 to 4.4 years and 3.5 to 4.3 years, respectively. Comparably, levelized cost of energy for the FPC and EPC will range from 7.47 to 9.62 cents/kWh and 7.66 to 9.24 cents/kWh, respectively, based on where the SWH system is located. Depending on where the facility is located, the annual cost savings for the FPC system would be between $486 and $625, while the EPC system would save between $529 and $638. Using SWHs can reduce CO2 emissions by 75–77% for the evacuated tube system and 69–76% for the flat plate system annually, depending on the location.

The electricity indebtedness of Ghanaian schools is increasing due to the high cost of electricity in the country. As a result, the utility companies frequently disconnect the schools from the grid to force them to settle their debts. Meanwhile, the school can reduce its bills from rooftop solar PV systems, yet little attention is given. The study uses the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) as a case to assess the technical feasibility, economic viability, and potential benefits of implementing rooftop solar PV electricity in Ghanaian schools. Google Earth software was used to estimate the structure's rooftop surface areas to determine the potential energy harvest from a PV plant.In contrast, the economic analysis uses the net present value (NPV), internal rate of returns (IRR), discounted payback period (DPP) and profitability index (IP) to appraise the intended project. The results show that using rooftops of school structures can provide the needed electricity for local consumption and export excess to the grid for sales. The NPV, IRR, IP, and DPP recorded from the study are million GHS 15.15, 21%, 1.6 and 8 years, respectively. The findings highlight the potential of rooftop solar PV systems to meet educational institutions' electricity demand, exploring the possibility of exporting excess to the national grid for revenue (income generator), reducing operational costs, and contributing to a sustainable energy transition.

The study presents a thermodynamic and economic assessment of different hydrogen storage solutions for heating purposes, powered by PV panels, of a 10-apartment residential building in Milan, and it focuses on compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, and metal hydride. The technical assessment involves using Python to code thermodynamic models to address technical and thermodynamic performances. The economic analysis evaluates the CAPEX, the ROI, and the cost per unit of stored hydrogen and energy. The study aims to provide an accurate assessment of the thermodynamic and economic indicators of three of the storage methods introduced in the literature review, pointing out the one with the best techno-economic performance for further development and research. The performed analysis shows that compressed hydrogen represents the best alternative but its cost is still too high for small residential applications. Applying the technology to a big system case would enable the solution making it economically feasible. • Evaluation of H2 storage for residential heating. • Analysis of compressed, liquid, and metal hydride H2 storage. • Evaluation criteria based on thermodynamics and economic metrics. • Compressed hydrogen is the most feasible storage: energy intensity of 1.31 kWh/kg and cost of 3 €/kg. • Discussion and analysis of scale-up potential for economic feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to sustainable energy has ushered in the era of electrofuels (e-fuels), which are synthesised using electricity from renewable sources, water, and CO2 as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This paper presents a systematic review of the techno-economic (TEA) and life cycle assessments (LCAs) of e-fuel production. We critically evaluate advancements in production technologies, economic feasibility, environmental implications, and potential societal impacts. Our findings indicate that while e-fuels offer a promising solution to reduce carbon emissions, their economic viability depends on optimising production processes and reducing input material costs. The LCA highlights the necessity of using renewable energy for hydrogen production to ensure the genuine sustainability of e-fuels. This review also identifies knowledge gaps, suggesting areas for future research and policy intervention. As the world moves toward a greener future, understanding the holistic implications of e-fuels becomes paramount. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview to guide stakeholders in their decision-making processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work involves lycopene extraction from tomato using surfactant L62 and separation of the same using cloud point extraction. The maximum extraction efficiency of lycopene from tomatoes (step I) was 54% (w/w) at optimized conditions (dilution distilled water/tomato puree = 1:1, surfactant concentration = 3% (v/v), temperature = 30 ℃, mixing intensity = 110 rpm, time = 50 min), which is significantly higher than the reported methods employing surfactant based systems. Further concentration of lycopene into the coacervate phase was carried out using CPE. The maximum CPE efficiency (step II) of 96% (w/w) was obtained with 3% L62 (v/v) at a temperature of 85 °C (time 30 min). The present process would eliminate the additional step required for back-extraction of lycopene as L62 is used for external applications in humans. Stability test suggest surfactant (L62) shows protective behavior towards lycopene in surfactant phase against degradation/isomerization for greater time at 30 ℃. The techno-economic study suggests that the project is profitable (NPV = 0.78 million of, discounted payback period of 3.7 years). A life cycle assessment study suggests that using surfactant L62 to extract lycopene from tomatoes has a lower environmental impact than using an organic solvent like acetone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faced with climate change and the search for mitigation of CO2 emissions, biomass presents itself as a promising raw material to diversify the renewable energy matrix, as an example, cassava wastewater. In the present study, an analysis of the energy and economic viability of a hybrid solar-PV biogas system (HRES) for the generation of bioenergy from the energy recovery of cassava wastewater in the State of Pará (Brazil) was carried out. The energy and economic viability analyses were analyzed for two cases: (1) HRES and (2) HRES considering combined heat and power (CHP) and sale of surplus energy. The results of the analysis showed that the use of energy from cassava in 133,333 L per day, allowed the generation of bioenergy through anaerobic digestion with CO2 capture by microalgae, obtained an installed power of HRES of 14 MW, with a surplus of 1.02 MW. The global efficiency of the HRES for cases 1 and 2 was, respectively, 18% and 21.76%. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for cases 1 and 2 was 0.0446 US$/kWh and 0.0413 US$/kWh, respectively. The HRES Net present value (NPV) considering cases 1 and 2 was US$ 321,124.21 and US$ 339,174.89, respectively. The internal rate of return (IRR) for cases 1 and 2 was 35.08% and 49.94%, respectively, both above the MARR (minimum acceptable rate of return) of 12%. The payback was 5 years and 6 months for cases 1 and 3 years and 8 months for case 2. Therefore, case 2 presented greater technical–economic viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]