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Abyar H, Nowrouzi M. Trickling filter systems for sustainable water supply: An evaluation of eco-environmental burdens and greenhouse gas emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:117011. [PMID: 37648187 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite the global water crisis, the significant potential of trickling filter systems as a crucial auxiliary option for sustainable water supply has received insufficient attention. Therefore, this study presents the first-ever evaluation of the environmental impacts of trickling filter application in wastewater treatment, focusing on eco-environmental burdens. Additionally, the study explores greenhouse gas emissions, energy, and exergy footprints, providing novel insights into the environmental implications of using trickling filters for wastewater treatment. The study's findings indicate that the consumption of heat and electricity in trickling filters has significant environmental impacts, particularly on land use (93.24%), freshwater/marine eutrophication (∼81.98%), and human health (45.36%). The majority of the energy required for trickling filter operation is supplied by fossil fuels (96.02%), resulting in increased greenhouse gas emissions (65.58%). The exergy of trickling filters is highly efficient, accounting for over 95% of the system's energy. Mathematical modeling reveals that anaerobic digestion and secondary clarifier have the highest energy consumption, with contributions of 94.65% and 2.63%, respectively. Construction expenses account for almost 88% of the total cost, with anaerobic digestion (42.15%) and trickling filters (35.39%) being the most costly components. The cost of treating 1 m3 of wastewater is estimated at 0.52 $/m3. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that electricity (14.66%) and heat (18.65%) significantly impact terrestrial ecotoxicity and land use, respectively. This study presents a framework for future investigations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Abyar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, 49189-43464, Iran.
| | - Mohsen Nowrouzi
- Department of Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Nano and Bio Science and Technology, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, 75169-13798, Iran.
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2
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Wang K, Yu Y, Liu S, Zhu Y, Liu P, Yu Z, Wang Y. A Review of the Current State and Future Prospects in Resource Recovery of Chinese Cereal Vinegar Residue. Foods 2022. [PMCID: PMC9602330 DOI: 10.3390/foods11203256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vinegar residue (VR) is a typical organic solid waste in Chinese cereal vinegar production. It is characterized by high yield, high moisture and low pH and is rich in lignocellulose and other organic matter. To avoid the environmental pollution caused by VR, it should be properly treated. The industry’s existing treatment processes, landfills and incineration, cause secondary pollution and waste of resources. Therefore, there is an urgent demand for environmentally friendly and cost-effective resource recovery technologies for VR. To date, a considerable amount of research has been performed in the area of resource recovery technologies for VR. This review summarizes the reported resource recovery technologies, mainly anaerobic digestion, feed production, fertilizer production, high-value product production and soil/water remediation. The principles, advantages and challenges of these technologies are highlighted. Finally, as a future perspective, a cascade and full utilization model for VR is proposed by considering the inherent drawbacks and economic-environmental feasibility of these technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Yongjian Yu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Shuangping Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Cereal Fermentation Technology, State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Peng Liu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Zhen Yu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
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Van Thinh N, Chung NT, Luong LTM, Chinh PM, Anh PP, Huy NT, Thuy DT, Thai PK. Assessment of total concentrations of heavy metals in industrial sludges from the North of Vietnam and their potential impact on the ecosystem. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:42055-42066. [PMID: 34822083 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-17619-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Industrial sludges from wastewater treatment plants of industrial parks and a drinking water treatment plant in northern Vietnam were investigated in this study. The total concentrations of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Hg, Pb, Zn) and other elements (Mn, Pd, Sb, V) in the sludges were measured using the ICP-MS method. In addition, the surface characteristics of the samples were analyzed using SEM-EDS and FTIR techniques. According to Vietnam's current waste management regulation, the investigated industrial sludges belonged to the hazardous waste category (with Pb concentration > 300 µg/g). In contrast, the sludge from the drinking water treatment plant had a low content of heavy metals and toxic elements. The sequential extraction method revealed that the heavy metals in the industrial sludges exhibited higher mobilization forms (exchangeable and reduceable fractions) than those in the drinking water sludges. The mobilization ability of heavy metals is probably related to the surface function groups of the sludges, which were dominated by (-COOH) and (-OH) groups. The potential ecological risk assessment calculations indicated that the industrial sludges had high potential risk (with the RI values ranging from 229.7 to 605.4), mainly due to the content of Cd in the sludge samples. Further studies about the fate and transport of Cd and other toxic metals in the sludges are highly recommended to better understand their risk to the surrounding environment, such as groundwater and agricultural soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Van Thinh
- Department of Environmental Changes, Faculty of Social and Cultural Studies, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan.
- Consulting Center of Technological Sciences for Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Nguyen Thuy Chung
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Ly Thi Mai Luong
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Pham Minh Chinh
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering, National University of Civil Engineering, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Phan Phuong Anh
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen The Huy
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dang Thi Thuy
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Phong K Thai
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
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Zhao Y, Qamar SA, Qamar M, Bilal M, Iqbal HMN. Sustainable remediation of hazardous environmental pollutants using biochar-based nanohybrid materials. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 300:113762. [PMID: 34543967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Biochar is a well-known carbon material with diversified functionalities and excellent physicochemical characteristics with high wastewater treatment potential. This review aims to summarize recent advancements in the development of biochar and biochar-based nanohybrid materials as a potential tool for the removal of harmful organic compounds such as synthetic dyes/effluents. The formation of biochar using pyrolysis of renewable feedstocks and their applications in various industries are explained hereafter. The characteristics and construction of biochar-based hybrid materials are explained in detail. Diversity of feedstocks, including municipal wastes, industrial byproducts, agricultural, and forestry residues, endows different biochar types with a wide structural variety. The production of cost-effective biochar drives the interest in manipulating biochars and induces desire functionality using nanoscale reinforcements. Various types of biochars, such as magnetic biochar, layered nanomaterial coated biochar, nanometallic oxide composites, chemically and physically functionalized biochar, have been produced. With the aid of nanomaterial, hybrid biochar exhibits a high potential to remove toxic contaminants. Depending upon biochar type, dyes/effluents can be removed via different mechanisms, including the Fenton process, photocatalytic degradation, π-π interaction, electrostatic interaction, and physical adsorption. In conclusion, desired physicochemical features, and tunable surface properties of biochar present high potential material in removing organic dyes and other effluents. The blended biochar with different materials/nanomaterials endows broader development and multi-functional opportunities for treating dyes/effluents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Zhao
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China.
| | - Sarmad Ahmad Qamar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mahpara Qamar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China.
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico.
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Approaches and Policies to Promote Zero-Waste City Construction: China’s Practices and Lessons. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132413537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The rapidly growing output of solid waste has brought tremendous pressure to urban development. China launched an action plan known as “Zero-waste city” (ZWC), that refers to an urban development model aimed at reducing the generation of and enhancing the recycling of solid waste, in order to alleviate environmental impacts. Eleven cities and five special zones achieved positive results of solid waste management were selected as pilot areas for exploring empirical methods until 2019. The practices and lessons of the pilot cities need to be deeply analyzed and summarized, so as to promote successful models, learn lessons and better implement the policy comprehensively for other cities. This study presents a review of China’s ZWC policies and practices with constructive suggestions for further development. Based on the policy objective of ZWC and the field investigation of solid waste flow, five crucial approaches to developing ZWC are proposed, namely, solid waste reduction throughout the industrial chain, collaborative treatment of classified municipal solid waste (MSW), efficient utilization of agricultural waste with multiple purposes, safety control of hazardous waste flow, and optimization of market mechanisms. The case study demonstrates that the five paths are appropriate to Xuzhou city. However, deficiencies in MSW classification, pesticide packaging waste collection systems, solid waste product application, management, and policymaking, have emerged. Regulatory prohibitions, extended producer responsibility and market vitality should be adopted to improve the collection, transportation, and utilization of solid waste. Key findings from this research are to summarize crucial paths toward fulfiling ZWC goal, and to reveal some successful practices of, and lessons from ZWC construction by case studies. This study provides a method to further implement zero solid waste management in a targeted manner. The recommendations drawn from the study, which include law, market and institutional measures, may contribute to the achievement of developing sustainable cities.
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Molaey R, Yesil H, Calli B, Tugtas AE. Influence of volatile fatty acids in anaerobic bioleaching of potentially toxic metals. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 285:112118. [PMID: 33578211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Potentially toxic metals are common contaminants associated with sewage sludge, and limited information is available on migration and transformation behavior of potentially toxic metals during anaerobic digestion (AD) process. The aim of this study was to reveal the influence of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) on the solubilization of metals through VFAs-metal complexation. Addition of readily biodegradable extra carbon source at organic loading rate (OLR) of 17.65 gVS/L.d resulted in accumulation of 67,255 mg chemical oxygen demand (COD)/L as VFAs. Low pH values due to VFAs accumulation enhanced the solubilization of Ni and more than 22% of its total concentration became soluble. Subsequent to consumption of VFAs and increase of pH to neutral levels (~7.5), solubility of Ni decreased below 10% of its total concentration. Contrarily, the solubility of Cr reached to 25% of its total concentration at neutral pH values. Presumably the complexation of Cr with dissolved organic matter (DOM) have increased its concentration in the liquid fraction at neutral pH values. Fractionation analysis of metals revealed that AD process altered Cu and Zn speciation between organically-bound and residual fractions, and hence solubility of Zn and Cu remained consistently low over the entire period of the AD process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahim Molaey
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Marmara University, Goztepe, Istanbul, 34722, Turkey; Kabul Polytechnic University, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | - Hatice Yesil
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Marmara University, Goztepe, Istanbul, 34722, Turkey.
| | - Baris Calli
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Marmara University, Goztepe, Istanbul, 34722, Turkey.
| | - Adile Evren Tugtas
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Marmara University, Goztepe, Istanbul, 34722, Turkey.
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Integrated approach for finding the causal effect of waste management over sustainability in the organization. BENCHMARKING-AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/bij-08-2020-0419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeIn developed and developing countries, organizations need to do sustainability reporting. The purpose of this paper is to identify the vital linkages of sustainability, which helps to capture the existing waste management practice in sustainable organizations.Design/methodology/approachThis paper reports a mixed-method approach for sustainable organization. Initially, the waste management and sustainability factors have been linked together for finding the relation between them through the situation, actor, process, learning, action, performance (SAP-LAP) linkages framework; it has been used as qualitative design details to achieve sustainability in the organization. The waste management and sustainability factors linkages have been used as a reference to guide the cause and effect relationship through decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) to upgrade knowledge for a sustainable organization.FindingsThe proposed method has been used to meet the functional requirements of sustainability in the organization. Waste management has been analyzed as the most significant benchmarks to achieve sustainability in the organization. The causal relationship reveals that the social image of an organization as a sustainable organization is the effect of its governmental directives, followed by the organization. The governmental directives is the most influencing dimension, and waste management efficiency and energy consumption are the most related, whereas wastivity is the most flexible dimension of sustainability in the organization. To increase its customer satisfaction, profit share and market value, these factors must be considered as vital factors of organization's sustainable performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe scope of the present research has been limited to benchmark sustainability by analyzing eight waste management factors and ten critical sustainability factors that have been grouped into four dimensions in the service sector, which could be generalized. The expert's view has been captured for DEMATEL based on “ratings provided by experts,” which may be biased.Practical implicationsBenchmarked sustainability factors have been proposed to increase the value and performance of the organization. The cause and effect relationship is useful to present the capability of waste management to act as a strong foundation for establishing a sustainable organization, where governmental directives, wastivity, waste management efficiency, and energy consumption act as the benchmarking factors to compare sustainable organization performance in developing the county's viewpoint. The present study considered the fourth dimension of sustainability “government and customer” as the dynamic dimension of sustainability, which can absorb and diffuse the changes in sustainable organization with time and can improvise social acceptance.Originality/valueThe research improves the existing method of measuring the performance of the sustainable organization by using well-established methods.
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Plohl O, Simonič M, Kolar K, Gyergyek S, Fras Zemljič L. Magnetic nanostructures functionalized with a derived lysine coating applied to simultaneously remove heavy metal pollutants from environmental systems. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF ADVANCED MATERIALS 2021; 22:55-71. [PMID: 33536841 PMCID: PMC7832508 DOI: 10.1080/14686996.2020.1865114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The pollution of environmental systems with heavy metals is becoming a serious problem worldwide. These contaminants are one of the main issues in sludge (which is considered waste) and can even have harmful effects if the sludge is not treated properly. Thus, the development of a novel functional magnetic nanoadsorbent based on a derived lysine is reported here, which can be efficiently applied for metal removal from sludge. Magnetic nanoparticles were coated with silica layer and further modified by covalent bonding of derived lysine. The morphology of the nanomaterial, its nano-size and the silica layer thickness were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. The successful silanization of the lysine derivative to the silica-coated magnetic nanostructures was investigated by several physicochemical characterization techniques, while the magnetic properties were measured with a vibrating sample magnetometer. The synthesized nanostructures were used as adsorbents for simultaneous removal of most critical heavy metals (Cr, Zn, Cu) from real complex sludge suspensions. The main practical adsorption parameters, pH of the native stabilized sludge, adsorbent amount, time, and adsorbent regeneration were investigated. The results show promising adsorption properties among currently available adsorbents (the total equilibrium adsorption capacity was 24.5 mg/g) from the sludge with satisfactory nanoadsorbent reusability and its rapid removal. The stability of the nanoadsorbent in the sludge, an important but often neglected practical parameter for efficient removal, was verified. This work opens up new possibilities for the development of high-quality magnetic nanoadsorbents for metal pollutants applied in various complicated environmental fields and enables waste recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivija Plohl
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
- CONTACT Olivija Plohl Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Smetanova 17, Maribor2000, Slovenia
| | - Marjana Simonič
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Ken Kolar
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Sašo Gyergyek
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
- Department for Materials Synthesis, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lidija Fras Zemljič
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
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Scenario Analysis for Selecting Sewage Sludge-to-Energy/Matter Recovery Processes. ENERGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/en14020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The sewage sludges are the byproducts of the wastewater treatment. The new perspective of the wastewater value chain points to a sustainable circular economy approach, where the residual solid material produced by sewage sludge treatments is a resource rather than a waste. A sewage sludge treatment system consists of five main phases; each of them can be performed by different alternative processes. Each process is characterized by its capability to recover energy and/or matter. In this paper, a state of the art of the sludge-to-energy and sludge-to-matter treatments is provided. Then, a scenario analysis is developed to identify suitable sewage sludge treatments plants that best fit the quality and flowrate of sewage sludge to be processed while meeting technological and economic constraints. Based on the scientific literature findings and experts’ opinions, the authors identify a set of reference initial scenarios and the corresponding best treatments’ selection for configuring sewage sludge treatment plants. The scenario analysis reveals a useful reference technical framework when circular economy goals are pursued. The results achieved in all scenarios ensure the potential recovery of matter and/or energy from sewage sludges processes.
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Preparation and Characterisation of Waste Poultry Feathers Composite Fibreboards. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13214964. [PMID: 33158218 PMCID: PMC7663731 DOI: 10.3390/ma13214964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The growth of poultry meat production is increasing industrial waste quantities every year. Feathers represent a huge part of the waste, and international directives and restrictions prevent landfilling of such biodegradable materials with high burning values. Furthermore, with their unique properties, poultry waste feathers are already a reliable resource for many byproducts, such as keratin extraction, fibres, hydrogel production, etc., all trying to achieve a high-added value. However, mass reduction of waste feathers into useful applications, such as development of alternative building materials, is also an important aspect. To take advantage of feathers’ thermal insulation capabilities, sound damping, and biodegradability, we worked towards mixing waste feathers with wood residues (wood shavings, dust, and mixed residues) for production of composite fibreboards, comparable to the market’s medium density fibreboards. The emphasis was to evaluate waste poultry feathers as the component of natural insulation composites, along with mixed waste wood residues, to improve their mechanical properties. Various composite fibreboards with different shares of wood and feathers were produced and tested for mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties, and biodegradability, with comparison to typical particle boards on the market. The addition of waste feather fibres into the fibreboards’ structure improved thermal insulation properties, and the biodegradability of fibreboards, but decreased their bending strength. The sound transition acoustic loss results of the presented combination fibreboards with added feathers improved at mid and high frequencies. Finally, production costs are estimated based on small scale laboratory experiments of feather processing (cleaning and drying), with the assumption of cost reduction in cases of large industrial application.
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Agricultural and Biomedical Applications of Chitosan-Based Nanomaterials. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10101903. [PMID: 32987697 PMCID: PMC7598667 DOI: 10.3390/nano10101903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chitosan has emerged as a biodegradable, nontoxic polymer with multiple beneficial applications in the agricultural and biomedical sectors. As nanotechnology has evolved as a promising field, researchers have incorporated chitosan-based nanomaterials in a variety of products to enhance their efficacy and biocompatibility. Moreover, due to its inherent antimicrobial and chelating properties, and the availability of modifiable functional groups, chitosan nanoparticles were also directly used in a variety of applications. In this review, the use of chitosan-based nanomaterials in agricultural and biomedical fields related to the management of abiotic stress in plants, water availability for crops, controlling foodborne pathogens, and cancer photothermal therapy is discussed, with some insights into the possible mechanisms of action. Additionally, the toxicity arising from the accumulation of these nanomaterials in biological systems and future research avenues that had gained limited attention from the scientific community are discussed here. Overall, chitosan-based nanomaterials show promising characteristics for sustainable agricultural practices and effective healthcare in an eco-friendly manner.
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Park J, Hong G. Strength Characteristics of Controlled Low-Strength Materials with Waste Paper Sludge Ash (WPSA) for Prevention of Sewage Pipe Damage. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13194238. [PMID: 32977555 PMCID: PMC7579634 DOI: 10.3390/ma13194238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of the mixing conditions of waste paper sludge ash (WPSA) on the strength and bearing capacity of controlled low-strength material (CLSM) were evaluated, and the optimal mixing conditions were used to evaluate the strength characteristics of CLSM with recyclable WPSA. The strength and bearing capacity of CLSM with WPSA were evaluated using unconfined compressive strength tests and plate bearing tests, respectively. The unconfined compressive strength test results show that the optimal mixing conditions for securing 0.8-1.2 MPa of target strength under 5% of cement content conditions can be obtained when both WPSA and fly ash are used. This is because WPSA and fly ash, which act as binders, have a significant impact on overall strength when the cement content is low. The bearing capacity of weathered soil increased from 550 to 575 kPa over time, and CLSM with WPSA increased significantly, from 560 to 730 kPa. This means that the bearing capacity of CLSM with WPSA was 2.0% higher than that of weathered soil immediately after construction; furthermore, it was 27% higher at 60 days of age. In addition, the allowable bearing capacity of CLSM corresponding to the optimal mixing conditions was evaluated, and it was found that this value increased by 30.4% until 60 days of age. This increase rate was 6.7 times larger than that of weathered soil (4.5%). Therefore, based on the allowable bearing capacity calculation results, CLSM with WPSA was applied as a sewage pipe backfill material. It was found that CLSM with WPSA performed better as backfill and was more stable than soil immediately after construction. The results of this study confirm that CLSM with WPSA can be utilized as sewage pipe backfill material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongjun Park
- Incheon Disaster Prevention Research Center, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea;
| | - Gigwon Hong
- Institute of Technology Research and Development, Korea Engineering & Construction, Seoul 05661, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Rumky J, Visigalli S, Turolla A, Gelmi E, Necibi C, Gronchi P, Sillanpää M, Canziani R. Electro-dewatering treatment of sludge: Assessment of the influence on relevant indicators for disposal in agriculture. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 268:110689. [PMID: 32383657 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Waste activated sludge requires effective dewatering, high biological stability and retention of nutrients prior to disposal for agricultural application. The study was conducted to evaluate the impact of pressure-driven electro-dewatering (EDW) on improving sludge characteristics related to disposal in agriculture, including biological stability, pathogen availability, heavy metals concentrations and nutrients content. Thickened conditioned and mechanically dewatered sludge samples were collected from two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), characterized by different stabilization processes, and treated by a lab-scale device at 5, 15 and 25 V. EDW increased significantly the dry solid (DS) content, up to 43-45%, starting from 2 to 3% of raw sludge. The endogenous value of specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR), monitored as indicator of biological stability, increased up to 56% and 39% after EDW tests for sludge from two WWTPs. On the other hand, the exogenous SOUR decreased, indicating a significant drop in the active bacterial population. Likewise, a 1-2 log unit reduction was observed for E. coli after EDW tests at 15 and 25 V. However, no remarkable removal of heavy metals, namely chromium, nickel, lead, copper and zinc, was achieved. Finally, the concentration of nutrients for soil, such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur, was not affected by the EDW process. In conclusion, EDW exerts considerable effects on the biological characteristics of sludge, which should be considered in a proper design of sludge management to ensure safe and sustainable resource recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannatul Rumky
- Department of Green Chemistry, LUT University, Sammonkatu 12, 50130 Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Simone Visigalli
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - Environmental Section, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Turolla
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - Environmental Section, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Enrico Gelmi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - Environmental Section, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Chaker Necibi
- International Water Research Institute, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, 43150, Green City Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Paolo Gronchi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Mika Sillanpää
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, 550000, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Faculty of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Duy Tan University, 550000, Da Nang, Viet Nam; School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, West Street, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Roberto Canziani
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - Environmental Section, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133, Milano, Italy.
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Kominko H, Gorazda K, Wzorek Z. Potentiality of sewage sludge-based organo-mineral fertilizer production in Poland considering nutrient value, heavy metal content and phytotoxicity for rapeseed crops. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 248:109283. [PMID: 31344561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge is a valuable source of nutrients and organic matter, which are beneficial for plant growth. The use of sewage sludge for agricultural purposes can be limited by the potential content of heavy metals and toxic organic compounds that pose a threat to the environment. The characterisation of sewage sludges from 11 Polish wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in terms of their fertilizing properties and heavy metal contents are presented in the study. Based on the chemical composition of sewage sludge from the WWTP in Żywiec, the compositions of organo-mineral fertilizers dedicated for rapeseed crop was developed. Alternative raw materials such as poultry litter ash and biomass ash were considered as components for fertilizer production. The production process of organo-mineral fertilizers included mixing sewage sludge with poultry litter ash/biomass ash and mineral fertilizers and granulation with mineral acids. The final products contained 24-34% of total NPK and fulfilled the requirements regarding heavy metal content according to Polish legislation. Using sewage sludge for fertilizer production is a promising solution for sewage sludge management, allowing the recycling of 82-140 tonnes of phosphorus (as P2O5) and 42-73 tonnes of nitrogen (N) annually in the WWTP in Żywiec.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halyna Kominko
- Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, Cracow 31-155, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Gorazda
- Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, Cracow 31-155, Poland.
| | - Zbigniew Wzorek
- Cracow University of Technology, Warszawska 24, Cracow 31-155, Poland.
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15
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Abstract
The management of solid waste presents a challenge for developing countries as thegeneration of waste is increasing at a rapid and alarming rate. Much awareness towards thesustainability and technological advances for solid waste management has been implemented toreduce the generation of unnecessary waste. The recycling of this waste is being applied to producevaluable organic matter, which can be used as fertilizers or amendments to improve the soil structure.This review studies the sustainable transformation of various types of biomass waste such as animalmanure, sewage sludge, municipal solid waste, and food waste, into organic fertilizers and theirimpact on waste minimization and agricultural enhancement. The side effects of these organicfertilizers towards the soil are evaluated as the characteristics of these fertilizers will differ dependingon the types of waste used, in addition to the varying chemical composition of the organic fertilizers.This work will provide an insight to the potential management of biomass waste to be produced intoorganic fertilizer and the advantages of substituting chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer derivedfrom the biomass waste.
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16
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Guo Z, Sun Y, Pan SY, Chiang PC. Integration of Green Energy and Advanced Energy-Efficient Technologies for Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1282. [PMID: 30974807 PMCID: PMC6479948 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16071282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wastewater treatment can consume a large amount of energy to meet discharge standards. However, wastewater also contains resources which could be recovered for secondary uses under proper treatment. Hence, the goal of this paper is to review the available green energy and biomass energy that can be utilized in wastewater treatment plants. Comprehensive elucidation of energy-efficient technologies for wastewater treatment plants are revealed. For these energy-efficient technologies, this review provides an introduction and current application status of these technologies as well as key performance indicators for the integration of green energy and energy-efficient technologies. There are several assessment perspectives summarized in the evaluation of the integration of green energy and energy-efficient technologies in wastewater treatment plants. To overcome the challenges in wastewater treatment plants, the Internet of Things (IoT) and green chemistry technologies for the water and energy nexus are proposed. The findings of this review are highly beneficial for the development of green energy and energy-efficient wastewater treatment plants. Future research should investigate the integration of green infrastructure and ecologically advanced treatment technologies to explore the potential benefits and advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Guo
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10673, Taiwan.
- Carbon Cycle Research Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10672, Taiwan.
| | - Yongjun Sun
- College of Urban Construction, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, China.
| | - Shu-Yuan Pan
- Department of Bioenvironmental System Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10617, Taiwan.
- Energy Technologies Area, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | - Pen-Chi Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10673, Taiwan.
- Carbon Cycle Research Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei City 10672, Taiwan.
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17
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Plohl O, Finšgar M, Gyergyek S, Ajdnik U, Ban I, Fras Zemljič L. Efficient Copper Removal from an Aqueous Anvironment using a Novel and Hybrid Nanoadsorbent Based on Derived-Polyethyleneimine Linked to Silica Magnetic Nanocomposites. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 9:E209. [PMID: 30736282 PMCID: PMC6409590 DOI: 10.3390/nano9020209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Due to the extreme rise of sludge pollution with heavy metals (e.g. copper), the options for its disposal or treatment are decreasing. On the contrary, properly heavy metal-cleaned sludge can be used as an alternative sustainable energy and agriculture source. The aim of this study was to develop a novel nanoadsorbent, based on irreversibly linked amino-rich polymer onto previously silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that can be applied efficiently for metal removal. MNPs were coated uniformly by 3 nm thick silica layer (core-shell structure), and were additionally modified with systematic covalent attachment of derived branched polyethyleneimine (bPEI). The formed structure of synthesized MNPs composite was confirmed with several analytical techniques. Importantly, nanoadsorbents exhibit high density of chelating amino groups and large magnetic force for easier separation. The importance of introduced bPEI, effect of pH, initial heavy metal concentration onto copper uptake efficiency and, further, nanoadsorbent regeneration, were studied and explained in detail. The adsorption isotherm was well fitted with Langmuir model, and the maximum adsorption capacity was shown to be 143 mg·g¹ for Cu2+. The reusability and superior properties of silica-coated MNPs functionalized with derived-bPEI for copper adsorption underlie its potential for the removal application from heavy metals contaminated sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivija Plohl
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Matjaž Finšgar
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Sašo Gyergyek
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Department for Materials` Synthesis, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Urban Ajdnik
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Irena Ban
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Lidija Fras Zemljič
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Laboratory for Characterization and Processing of Polymers, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
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18
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Zhang F, Wu K, Zhou H, Hu Y, Sergei P, Wu H, Wei C. Ozonation of aqueous phenol catalyzed by biochar produced from sludge obtained in the treatment of coking wastewater. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2018; 224:376-386. [PMID: 30059935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sludge collected from industrial wastewater treatment possesses a threatening effect on environment, and changing it into functional material provides an alternative for its disposal. Biochar synthesized by pyrolysis of sludge obtained from coking wastewater treatment was evaluated for the catalytic ozonation of phenol in aqueous solution. The present work focused on testing the catalytic performance of biochar, deducing the kinetics of phenol removal in various reaction conditions, and finally elucidating the mechanism of biochar-enhanced phenol removal. The results demonstrated that biochars produced at pyrolysis temperatures of 700 and 900 °C revealed highly comparable catalytic activity in phenol ozonation, leading to around 95% phenol removal within 30 min reaction, due to the abundant carbonyl groups on biochar surface. The biochar, however, was suffered from poor stability, which was attributed to biochar loss and changes in surface chemistry. On the basis of examining reaction variables, an empirical kinetic model was developed well matching experimental results. It was found that ozone concentration adsorbed on biochar surface was first increased with a peak (3.8 mg/L for biochar obtained at 700 °C) at reaction time 10 min, after which it decreased along with proceeding reaction. In light of radical scavenging test, superoxide radical (O2-) was identified as main radical species produced from the interaction of ozone with biochar surface, while hydroxyl radical (OH) played negligible role in biochar catalytic ozonation. The promoting mechanism of bicarbonate on phenol ozonation was verified to be the generation of O2- via series reactions of HCO3- with OH and ozone, apart from increase in solution pH. These results provide important implications for future recycling of coking wastewater treatment sludge in environmental remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengzhen Zhang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Kaiyi Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Hongtao Zhou
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yun Hu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Preis Sergei
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Department of Materials and Environmental Technology, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, 19086, Estonia
| | - Haizhen Wu
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Chaohai Wei
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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Pietzsch N, Ribeiro JLD, de Medeiros JF. Benefits, challenges and critical factors of success for Zero Waste: A systematic literature review. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 67:324-353. [PMID: 28571662 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Considering the growing concern with solid wastes problems and the pressing need for a holistic approach to their management, this study developed a literature review about the subject "Zero Waste". To that end, a systematic literature review was executed, through which 102 published articles were analyzed with the aim to, initially, comprehend the concept of Zero Waste, and, then, map its benefits, challenges, and critical success factors. The results show that scholars have not reached a consensus regarding the concept of ZW. While some studies fully address this philosophy, other studies are based on just one or on some of its topics. The benefits were grouped and organized into four dimensions: benefits to the community, financial-economic benefits, benefits to the environment and benefits to the industry and stakeholders. As to the challenges, barriers were identified both in the macro environment (mainly political and cultural) and in the meso and micro environments (stakeholders, industries, and municipalities). The analysis of the articles enabled listing critical success factors, supported by a set of activities that must be carried out. Regarding future studies, it is worth noting that more empirical studies about ZW implementation are necessary, particularly with regard to educational practices designed to promote changes in user behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Pietzsch
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Industrial Engineering Department, Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99, 5° Andar, 90035-190 Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - José Luis Duarte Ribeiro
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Industrial Engineering Department, Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99, 5° Andar, 90035-190 Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Janine Fleith de Medeiros
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Industrial Engineering Department, Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99, 5° Andar, 90035-190 Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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