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6 pages, 1532 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring the Dynamics of Natural Sodium Bicarbonate (Nahcolite), Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash), and Black Ash Waste in Spray Dry SO₂ Capture

by Robert Makomere, Lawrence Koech, Hilary Rutto and Alfayo Alugongo

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067001 - 26 Jun 2024

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Abstract

The efficacy of spray dry systems compared to wet flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) units depends on applying a highly reactive scrubbing reagent. This study assessed sodium-based compounds derived from natural sources and waste by-products as potential agents for treating sulphur dioxide (SO₂ [...] Read more.

The efficacy of spray dry systems compared to wet flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) units depends on applying a highly reactive scrubbing reagent. This study assessed sodium-based compounds derived from natural sources and waste by-products as potential agents for treating sulphur dioxide (SO₂). Sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) were acquired from mineral deposits, whereas the black ash waste (Na₂CO₃·NaHCO₃) was obtained from the pulp and paper sector. The sorbents introduced in slurry form were subject to SO₂ absorption conditions in a lab-scale spray dryer, including an inlet gas phase temperature of 120–180 °C, flue gas flow rate of 21–34 m³/h, and sodium to sulphur normalised stoichiometric ratio (Na:S) of 0.25–1. The comparative performance was evaluated using the metric of %SO₂ (

% η_{D e S O_{X}}

) removal efficiency. The results showed that NaHCO₃ had the highest overall result, with a removal efficiency of 62% at saturation. Black ash was the second best-performing reagent, with a 56% removal efficiency, while Na₂CO₃ had the lowest efficiency (53%). The maximum degree of SO₂ reduction achieved using NaHCO₃ under specific operating parameters was at an NSR of 0.875 (69%), a reaction temperature of 120 °C (73%), and a gas inlet flow rate of 34 m³/h. In conclusion, the sodium reagents produced significant SO₂ neutralisation, exceeding 50% in their unprocessed state, which is within acceptable limits in small- to medium-sized coal-fired power plants considering retrofitting pollution control systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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6 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Selected Aspects of the Antibacterial Use of Lactic Acid in Food Processing

by Dragica Đurđević-Milošević, Andrijana Petrović, Vesna Kalaba, Milka Stijepić and Gordana Jovanović

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067002 - 5 Jul 2024

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Abstract

L(+)-lactic acid is authorized as an active substance for biocidal products, with applications in veterinary hygiene, food, and animal feed. Several factors can influence the antimicrobial effect of lactic acid, including the applied concentration of lactic acid, the contact time, and the organic [...] Read more.

L(+)-lactic acid is authorized as an active substance for biocidal products, with applications in veterinary hygiene, food, and animal feed. Several factors can influence the antimicrobial effect of lactic acid, including the applied concentration of lactic acid, the contact time, and the organic soiling of the surface to which it was applied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bactericidal activity of 5% (v/v) and 1% (v/v) lactic acid solutions on test bacteria: the Gram-negative strain Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (ATCC 14028) and the Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus (ATCC 33592), which is a strain that is resistant to gentamicin and methicillin (MRSA). A dilution–neutralisation method was used, based on a quantitative suspension test EN 1276, for the evaluation of the bactericidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics used in food, industrial, domestic, and institutional areas, with the bacterial activity being modified in part of the obligatory test organisms. The obtained results showed no difference in the results of the tests under simulated clean and dirty conditions. Both tested lactic acid concentrations showed a 5 lg reduction in Salmonella Typhimurium. For the tested strain, Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), the required reduction of 5 lg was not achieved. These results contribute to a better understanding and rationale for the use of lactic acid for antibacterial purposes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

10 pages, 2425 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Water Quality’s Influence on the Water Discharge of a Nuclear Power Plant (Non-Radiative Impact Factor)

by Pavlo Kuznietsov, Olha Biedunkova, Alla Pryshchepa and Olesya Yaroshchuk

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067003 - 5 Jul 2024

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Abstract

This study examines the environmental impact of a nuclear power plant’s (NPP) open-cycle cooling systems (CCSs), focusing on the Rivne NPP in Ukraine. Regulatory standards from the Water Code of Ukraine and the EU’s Water Framework Directive guide the analysis. Over four years [...] Read more.

This study examines the environmental impact of a nuclear power plant’s (NPP) open-cycle cooling systems (CCSs), focusing on the Rivne NPP in Ukraine. Regulatory standards from the Water Code of Ukraine and the EU’s Water Framework Directive guide the analysis. Over four years (2019–2022), water quality indicators were monitored. Results show compliance with regulatory standards for makeup and cooling water, with pH levels within the range of 6.5–8.5. Total dissolved solids (TDS) remained below 500 mg/dm³, while total hardness (TH) did not exceed 200 mg/dm³ as CaCO₃. Salinity components, including Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, Na⁺, and K⁺, were within acceptable limits. Biogenic compounds, such as PO₄³⁻ and N-NH₃, occasionally exceeded maximum permissible concentrations in the receiving Styr River. Chemical oxygen demand levels were consistently below 30 mg/dm³. Pearson’s correlation coefficient and principal component analysis revealed strong relationships between water quality indicators. TH and SO₄²⁻ were identified as dominant components in CCS water discharge, remaining below prescribed maximum permissible discharge limits. Overall, this study indicates that there is no negative non-radiological impact of water discharge of polluting chemicals with the effluent of the Rivne NPP CCS on the surface waters of the Styr River. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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7 pages, 1285 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Concentrations on Electrocoagulation for Simultaneous Tartrazine Dye Removal and Hydrogen Production

by Saddam Husein, Slamet and Eniya Listiani Dewi

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067004 - 5 Jul 2024

Viewed by 195

Abstract

Liquid waste frequently contains a large variety of hazardous substances, including tartrazine-based dyes. These color compounds can present a significant hazard to both human health and the natural environment. Moreover, there is a growing demand for sustainable energy, and hydrogen is emerging as [...] Read more.

Liquid waste frequently contains a large variety of hazardous substances, including tartrazine-based dyes. These color compounds can present a significant hazard to both human health and the natural environment. Moreover, there is a growing demand for sustainable energy, and hydrogen is emerging as a promising alternative energy source that does not produce carbon emissions. To address the aforementioned concerns, it is necessary to conduct research aimed at eradicating tartrazine while concurrently generating hydrogen gas as a viable substitute for energy. This study aims to investigate the effect of different concentrations of NaCl electrolytes on the rate of simultaneous tartrazine elimination and hydrogen production using electrocoagulation. The electrocoagulation procedure was used with various concentrations of NaCl (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1 g/L). UV–Vis spectrophotometers and gas chromatography were employed to evaluate the elimination of tartrazine and the rate of hydrogen production. The results show that the highest rate of tartrazine removal was 93%, which occurred at 0.8 and 1 g/L of NaCl at 240 min. It can be stated that higher electrolyte concentrations generally lead to an increase in tartrazine removal. The highest rate of hydrogen production was 217.44 mol H₂/m², which occurred at 1 g/L of NaCl at 240 min; thus, it can be concluded that higher electrolyte concentrations generally lead to an increase in hydrogen production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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9 pages, 2419 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bagasse-Based Cellulose Nanocrystal–Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanocomposite for Removal of Chromium (VI) from Aqua Media

by Evans Suter, Hilary Rutto, Tumisangs Seodigeng, Lewis Kiambi and Wesley Omwoyo

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067005 - 11 Jul 2024

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Abstract

This research developed a low-cost nano-bio-adsorbent using sugar cane bagasse-based nanocrystals incorporated with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (CNCs-MIONPs). The adsorbent demonstrated excellent Cr(VI) adsorption efficiency at an optimal pH of 2.0, an initial concentration of 0.5 mg/L, and a contact time of 90 [...] Read more.

This research developed a low-cost nano-bio-adsorbent using sugar cane bagasse-based nanocrystals incorporated with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (CNCs-MIONPs). The adsorbent demonstrated excellent Cr(VI) adsorption efficiency at an optimal pH of 2.0, an initial concentration of 0.5 mg/L, and a contact time of 90 min with a shaking rate of 250 rpm, achieving a removal efficiency of 91.78%. The increased surface area, smaller particle size, and the nanocomposite’s active sites facilitated chromium species’ immobilisation, enhancing chromate ion removal. The adsorption process involved chemisorption, where valence forces such as electron sharing or exchange occur between the adsorbate and sorbent. The modified CNCs-MIONPs showed improved sorption efficiency, suggesting potential applications in water treatment plants, both for domestic and industrial wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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8 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Systematic Study on the Effect of the Xanthation Temperature on Viscose Quality

by Novita Novita, Budhijanto Budhijanto and Muhammad Mufti Azis

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067006 - 16 Jul 2024

Viewed by 140

Abstract

The xanthation reaction is an exothermic reaction between alkali cellulose (AC) and carbon disulfide (CS₂) used to regenerate a viscose solution. The cooling system plays an important role during the reaction to yield more of the main product, cellulose xanthate (CX), [...] Read more.

The xanthation reaction is an exothermic reaction between alkali cellulose (AC) and carbon disulfide (CS₂) used to regenerate a viscose solution. The cooling system plays an important role during the reaction to yield more of the main product, cellulose xanthate (CX), instead of the by-product, sodium trithiocarbonate (TTC). Minimizing the yield of by-products during the reaction phase may lead to less by-product generation during the ripening process due to free caustic and excess CS₂ in the system. The reaction was performed in a batch reactor with an agitator (9.7 rpm) under vacuum conditions (350 mbar), and the temperature varied from 20 °C to 35 °C, as is applicable in industrial plants. Meanwhile, the CX and TTC were determined via UV spectroscopy. Since the temperature reaction will affect the period of the reaction, which impacts the productivity of industrial applications, the experiment was conducted with a temperature change during the reaction to obtain a good-quality product without impacting productivity. This work aimed to reach an optimum xanthation temperature under the same combination of hardwood and softwood dissolving pulp. The results indicated that the xanthation reaction has an advantage at lower temperatures compared to higher ones; however, having a lower temperature led to a longer reaction period. The TTC was shown to be 17.7% lower at lower temperatures than at higher temperatures, which means that the CX was at a higher percentage at lower temperatures. Interestingly, the combination of higher and lower temperatures gave good viscose quality, which may lead to less consumption of CS₂ and improve the environment due to less sulfur production during spinning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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14 pages, 18918 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Weather Monitoring and Emergency IoT System in Muang-On Cave, Northern Thailand

by Khomchan Promneewat and Tadsuda Taksavasu

Eng. Proc. 2024, 67(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2024067007 - 18 Jul 2024

Viewed by 531

Abstract

This study presents a production and development process of an IoT-based weather monitoring and emergency notification system for confined-space environments. The system comprises four working hardware stations cooperating through a data transfer command, an open-source data management system, and a cloud database. The [...] Read more.

This study presents a production and development process of an IoT-based weather monitoring and emergency notification system for confined-space environments. The system comprises four working hardware stations cooperating through a data transfer command, an open-source data management system, and a cloud database. The system was preliminarily tested in a relevant confined-space area known as the Muang-On Cave, located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The system was used to monitor weather conditions and detect emergency signals at all stations for seventeen days during the wet to dry transitional season. The data, including temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, total volatile organic compounds, and emergency codes, were displayed on the web server every 80 to 110 s. However, the extremely humid conditions in the cave actively affected the erroneous readings of gas-detecting sensors that should be accounted for further improvement. Since the system was devised from low-cost electrical and non-electrical materials and open-source software, the total capital cost of the system production indicates a relatively low cost estimated at nearly USD 200. Testing the studied system in other natural caves elsewhere is highly recommended for system stability assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Processes)

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