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Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems
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Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Engineering and Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 December 2023) | Viewed by 8790

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ana Luísa Ferreira Andrade Ramos

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Economics, Management and Industrial Engineering and Tourism, GOVCOPP Research Unit, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
Interests: industrial engineering; modelling & simulation; model-based systems engineering; decision-support models; ergonomics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. José António de Vasconcelos Ferreira

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Economics, Management, Industrial Engineering and Tourism, GOVCOPP Research Unit, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
Interests: industrial engineering and management; supply chain management; data analysis and statistical modelling; mobility; decision-support models

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The contemporary world is a world of global, large, complex, multi/inter/transdisciplinary socio-technical systems made up of other systems, personnel, hardware, software, information, facilities, and processes. The challenge is increasing as systems, in general, evolve towards a tailored service base, simultaneously incorporating the dimensions of sustainability, adaptability, resilience and delivery of value to society.

To take proper account of their multifaceted nature and numerous interrelationships, as well as to reach their overall “maximum” performance, we believe that an integrative holistic approach, such the one of systems engineering, is critical. As stated by INCOSE (@2022), systems engineering is “a transdisciplinary and integrative approach to enable the successful realization, use, and retirement of engineered systems, using systems principles and concepts, and scientific, technological, and management methods”.

Modelling is a universal technique to understand and simplify reality through abstraction. This is a common basis of human tasks, and reveals our aptitude to understand and to explore mega phenomena such as Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0. From simple mental models to sophisticated immersive virtual reality models, this area is pervasive, and one of the most important tools of systems engineering. The model-based systems engineering (MBSE) paradigm intends to create a shared and coherent vision for the system through a model-based environment (principles, methods, languages, and tools). The main challenge will be to ensure that the system model, acting as a shared working platform, reflects the stakeholders’/shareholders’ ideas and the resulting system satisfies their expectations.

In this context, the main purpose of this Special Issue is to collect a series of valuable studies (original research works, reviews and case studies are welcome) highlighting the present-day challenges imposed by the creation, development and improvement of complex engineering systems and how a model-based environment with diverse modeling approaches can contribute to their successful operation, sustainable growth, and delivery of value to society. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Systems engineering/engineered systems;
  • Model-based systems engineering;
  • Sustainable engineered systems;
  • Modelling (modelling approaches and models for industrial engineering);
  • Modelling and simulation;
  • SD, DES, ABS paradigms and/or hybrid simulation;
  • Decision-support models.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Ana Luísa Ferreira Andrade Ramos
Dr. José António de Vasconcelos Ferreira
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • decision-support models
  • industrial systems
  • modelling
  • simulation
  • sustainable systems
  • systems engineering

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 995 KiB  
Article
Assessing Exergy Efficiency in Computer-Aided Modeled Large-Scale Production of Chitosan Microbeads Modified with Thiourea and Magnetite Nanoparticles
by Forlin Bertel-Pérez, Grisel Cogollo-Cárcamo and Ángel Darío González-Delgado
Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14443; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914443 - 3 Oct 2023
Viewed by 774
Abstract
Chitosan, the deacetylated derivative of chitin, is a biopolymer with many applications in different sectors, such as pharmaceutical, food, and wastewater treatment, amongst others. It can be used as a source for synthesizing bioadsorbents modified with chelators and nanoparticles for the removal of [...] Read more.
Chitosan, the deacetylated derivative of chitin, is a biopolymer with many applications in different sectors, such as pharmaceutical, food, and wastewater treatment, amongst others. It can be used as a source for synthesizing bioadsorbents modified with chelators and nanoparticles for the removal of pollutants. In this report, we conducted an exergy analysis to evaluate the large-scale production of chitosan-based bioadsorbents modified with iron nanoparticles and chelators. The objective was to identify energy inefficiencies and propose technological enhancements to improve energy utilization. The process was simulated using Aspen Plus V.10® software, enabling the quantification of chemical and physical exergies for the species and streams involved. We calculated process irreversibilities, exergy losses, waste exergy, and utility exergy flows for each stage and the overall process. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing energy utilization in the production of chitosan-based bioadsorbents. The overall exergy efficiency was 4.98%, with the washing and drying stages of nanoparticles and adsorbent synthesis accounting for the largest contribution to process irreversibilities and exergy destruction. To increase the global exergy efficiency of the process, it is proposed to implement process improvement strategies, such as mass or energy integration, to obtain better energy performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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36 pages, 3757 KiB  
Article
Mathematical Modeling of Pilot Scale Olive Mill Wastewater Phytoremediation Units
by Margarita A. Petoussi and Nicolas Kalogerakis
Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8630; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118630 - 25 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 935
Abstract
A mechanistic state–space model has been developed to describe the dynamics of olive mill wastewater (OMW) treatment in phytoremediation pilot units with P. granatum L. and M. communis L. plants and to assess further the relative contribution of the plants in the overall [...] Read more.
A mechanistic state–space model has been developed to describe the dynamics of olive mill wastewater (OMW) treatment in phytoremediation pilot units with P. granatum L. and M. communis L. plants and to assess further the relative contribution of the plants in the overall OMW remediation process. Both phytoremediation and bioremediation processes have been considered in the model, i.e., phytodegradation, rhizodegradation, accumulation of hardly biodegradable organic matter on the root tissue of plants, microbial growth, maintenance and decay, and enzymatic decomposition of organics. Maximum specific microbial growth rates for bacteria and fungi were estimated within the range of 0.164–0.236 1/h. The specific rate for the decomposition of hardly biodegradable organics both by bacteria and fungi was within the range of 10.75–72.73 mg-substrate/g-biomass·h, whereas, particularly for the high-molecular-weight polyphenols, it was 1.02–18.25 mg-substrate/g-biomass·h. The values of the transpiration stream concentration factor were greater than 0.95 for both the non-phenolic and phenolic organics, which indicates almost passive uptake of OMW organics’ mixture by the plants. The corresponding factors for inorganic N and P were estimated as greater than unity, indicating active uptake. Overall, the model predicts the experimental data well when the organic concentration of OMW is high, and it predicts that phytoremediation processes contribute by more than 91% to the removal of OMW organics and nutrients, irrespective of the wastewater organic strength. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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14 pages, 818 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Sustainable Practices in Engineering Projects: A Systemic Approach
by Andrés Acero and María Catalina Ramírez Cajiao
Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6022; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076022 - 30 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2189
Abstract
The work of an engineer involves the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new and improved artifacts. However, what sets engineering apart from other professions is the direct responsibility of engineers to think critically and design innovative solutions to solve complex problems in social [...] Read more.
The work of an engineer involves the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new and improved artifacts. However, what sets engineering apart from other professions is the direct responsibility of engineers to think critically and design innovative solutions to solve complex problems in social systems. Unfortunately, the solutions often do not consider the dynamics of the environment or the cultures that will receive them, leading to obsolescence due to the lack of technical knowledge of maintenance and repair. This exacerbates the disruptive power of technology in culture and society, leading to a gap in engineering education that needs to be addressed. Critical theories attempt to reformulate the teaching and practice of engineering in social-environmental contexts of vulnerability, utilizing systemic models to anticipate solutions based on possible scenarios. However, these theories do not consider the mental models of professional engineers, relying mostly on educational studies. To address this gap, this article explores a novel approach to the problem of sustainability mindset in engineering by understanding the characteristics and structures of engineering systems of practice and conveying it through causal loop diagrams. The results identify causal loops that reinforce or affect the application of sustainable practices, which can be used as leverage points within the systems of practice structure to improve the performance and interest of engineering students in sustainable development endeavors and promote more professionals working with a sustainable mindset. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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Review

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16 pages, 1958 KiB  
Review
Residual Agroforestry Biomass Supply Chain Simulation Insights and Directions: A Systematic Literature Review
by Bernardine Chigozie Chidozie, Ana Luísa Ramos, José Vasconcelos Ferreira and Luís Pinto Ferreira
Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 9992; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15139992 - 23 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1425
Abstract
Residual biomass is a reliable source of energy and hence requires effective supply chain management for optimal performance and sustainability. While there are various studies on this recent trend, a comprehensive review of the literature on simulation-based modeling of the supply chain for [...] Read more.
Residual biomass is a reliable source of energy and hence requires effective supply chain management for optimal performance and sustainability. While there are various studies on this recent trend, a comprehensive review of the literature on simulation-based modeling of the supply chain for residual agroforestry biomass is lacking. This study aims to present a systematic review of relevant literature surrounding residual agroforestry supply chain simulation insights and directions. The systematic literature review was carried out in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 standards and intends to answer the research questions based on (1) Key Performance Indicators (KPI); (2) Simulation techniques; and (3) Efficient supply chain. A search of the Science Direct, SCOPUS, and UA EBSCO databases was conducted using the appropriate keywords combination. The databases were searched, and a total of 1617 papers were appraised automatically. Subsequently, the titles, keywords, and abstracts of 172 papers were examined. Following the full-text analysis, 20 papers in addition to 27 articles taken from other sources matched the requirements for study inclusion. The publications accessed reveals that simulation-based techniques will optimize the supply chain for residual biomass when applied. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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Other

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19 pages, 5684 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Consumer’s Role in the Transition to the Circular Economy: A State of the Art Based on a SLR with Bibliometric Analysis
by Rui Jorge Carreira, José Vasconcelos Ferreira and Ana Luísa Ramos
Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 15040; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015040 - 19 Oct 2023
Viewed by 959
Abstract
Implementing the Circular Economy (CE) is largely a mirage. There are some political decisions translated into penalties and/or incentives to try to adjust the “optimal” level of circularity. The consumer’s desire to purchase circular products, given the increase in price associated with them, [...] Read more.
Implementing the Circular Economy (CE) is largely a mirage. There are some political decisions translated into penalties and/or incentives to try to adjust the “optimal” level of circularity. The consumer’s desire to purchase circular products, given the increase in price associated with them, and the sum of associated fines and penalties, generates complex financial equations, which become unfavorable to the transition to the CE. CE-friendly solutions in use are associated with situations in which circularity contributes to lower production costs. The authors are committed to altering the course of events. They believe that the success of this transition will have the will of the consumer as its main vector. To this end, they launched an investigation that leads to clues on how, by identifying barriers, facilitators, and motivations, proposals for solutions that are focused on the consumer are designed. The research project started by surveying and systematically analyzing the existing published information, in order to reach the State of the Art. The path taken involved a systematic review of the literature and the consequent bibliometric analysis, fulfilling a methodology whose steps are not innovative, but whose relationship/sequencing of the same is insufficiently treated in the literature. As the most relevant results of the application of the proposed methodology to the subject under analysis, in addition to the recognition of a set of significant and guiding texts, explored as graphically as possible, the identification of relevant sub-themes stands out, as well as the framing of opportunities for future investigations. With this investigation, we conclude that the consumer is not the trigger for the transition from the linear economy to the CE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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23 pages, 6051 KiB  
Systematic Review
Human Energy Management in Industry: A Systematic Review of Organizational Strategies to Reinforce Workforce Energy
by Ifeoma Chukwunonso Onyemelukwe, José Antonio Vasconcelos Ferreira and Ana Luísa Ramos
Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 13202; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151713202 - 2 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1828
Abstract
Recent global events, including the pandemic, social unrest, geopolitical instabilities, automation risk, and socio-economic upheavals, have amplified challenges and stressors that deplete human energy. Coupled with work-related stress, these factors substantially strain the invaluable human capital that fuels organizational productivity. Many scholars acknowledge [...] Read more.
Recent global events, including the pandemic, social unrest, geopolitical instabilities, automation risk, and socio-economic upheavals, have amplified challenges and stressors that deplete human energy. Coupled with work-related stress, these factors substantially strain the invaluable human capital that fuels organizational productivity. Many scholars acknowledge the existence of a global human energy crisis. While industry may not be in a position to control these stressors, leaders and managers can positively influence employee experience by optimizing workforce energy. Via a systematic literature review adhering to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 guidelines, this study aims to explore (1) the concept of human energy and its importance in a human-centered industry, (2) promoting a culture of human energy management within an organizational context, and (3) the existing approaches and strategies that manage human energy. The search in two databases, Scopus and Web of Science, found 1084 papers. After identification and screening, 86 documents remained, and 32 papers was retained after title, keyword, and abstract assessment. Subsequently, a full-text analysis yielded 18 papers included in the review. This study emphasizes industry’s potential to address a societal challenge, “the human energy crisis”, aligning with the European Union’s vision of a sustainable and resilient society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling Sustainable Engineered Systems)
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