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Search Results (1,248)

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Keywords = wood-based materials

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29 pages, 4095 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Biomass Valorization Hierarchy
by Isabel Pestana da Paixão Cansado, Paulo Alexandre Mira Mourão, José Eduardo Castanheiro, Pedro Francisco Geraldo, Suhas, Silvia Román Suero and Beatriz Ledesma Cano
Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010335 (registering DOI) - 4 Jan 2025
Abstract
The sustainability of the planet is based on reducing the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The recovery of biomass waste puts economically valuable materials into circulation, which can successfully replace fossil fuels and which would otherwise be sent to landfills. [...] Read more.
The sustainability of the planet is based on reducing the use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The recovery of biomass waste puts economically valuable materials into circulation, which can successfully replace fossil fuels and which would otherwise be sent to landfills. Based on the review of several published works, we observe that the referenced processes to value biomass or biomass waste are not necessarily the most profitable and environmentally friendly. The most used methods to valorize biomass and biomass waste are mainly based on researchers knowledge and experience, neglecting some methods that are more appropriate or developing technologies. The valorization of biomass and biomass wastes should promote the production of products with the highest added value, and it must also be environmentally friendly and cost-effective. This manuscript proposes a hierarchy for the use of various valorization processes of biomass waste, from various agricultural activities, urban solids waste, food processing industries, and even wood industries. The proposed hierarchy is based on a number of recommendations aimed at increasing the use and valorization of biomass, in order to reach the objective of carbon neutrality and to comply with the principles of the circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Waste and Recycling)
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14 pages, 4507 KiB  
Article
Low-Frequency Measurement of Moistened Wood-Based Materials
by Livio D’Alvia
Metrology 2025, 5(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/metrology5010001 (registering DOI) - 4 Jan 2025
Viewed by 39
Abstract
This article examines how water content is a crucial parameter for the preservation of wooden artworks and buildings, focusing on non-invasive ways of measuring water content through capacitive methods. A personalized, low-cost probe to measure the dielectric properties of oak and poplar wood [...] Read more.
This article examines how water content is a crucial parameter for the preservation of wooden artworks and buildings, focusing on non-invasive ways of measuring water content through capacitive methods. A personalized, low-cost probe to measure the dielectric properties of oak and poplar wood at various water content levels and frequencies is described. The accuracy of the probe is confirmed by testing it with reference materials like air, PTFE, PLA, glass and Bakelite, demonstrating an accuracy error below 2%. Next, the probe is used to evaluate the relationship between water content and permittivity, indicating possible uses in conservation projects. Measurements were conducted on two types of wood, poplar and oak, at five varying levels of water content. The dielectric permittivity between 10 and 100 kHz was assessed. Using the vertical shift from the single interpolant of the dataset, a graduation curve was estimated. Finally, an R2 = 0.98 value demonstrates that a sigmoidal function reflects the relationship between the percentage water content and the permittivity of materials. Full article
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20 pages, 5958 KiB  
Article
Scalable Fabrication of Light-Responsive Superhydrophobic Composite Phase Change Materials via Bionic-Engineered Wood for Solar–Thermal Energy Management
by Yang Meng, Jiangyu Zhang, Yuchan Li, Hui Jiang and Delong Xie
Molecules 2025, 30(1), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30010168 (registering DOI) - 4 Jan 2025
Viewed by 182
Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable energy storage solutions has underscored the importance of phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy management. However, traditional PCMs are always inherently constrained by issues such as leakage, poor thermal conductivity, and lack of solar energy conversion capacity. [...] Read more.
The growing demand for sustainable energy storage solutions has underscored the importance of phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy management. However, traditional PCMs are always inherently constrained by issues such as leakage, poor thermal conductivity, and lack of solar energy conversion capacity. Herein, a multifunctional composite phase change material (CPCM) is developed using a balsa-derived morphology genetic scaffold, engineered via bionic catechol surface chemistry. The scaffold undergoes selective delignification, followed by a simple, room-temperature polydopamine (PDA) modification to deposit Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and graft octadecyl chains, resulting in a superhydrophobic hierarchical structure. This superhydrophobicity plays a critical role in preventing PCM leakage and enhancing environmental adaptability, ensuring long-term stability under diverse conditions. Encapsulating stearic acid (SA) as the PCM, the CPCM exhibits exceptional stability, achieving a high latent heat of 175.5 J g−1 and an energy storage efficiency of 87.7%. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the CPCM is significantly enhanced along the longitudinal direction, a 2.1-fold increase compared to pure SA, due to the integration of Ag NPs and the unidirectional wood architecture. This synergy also drives efficient photothermal conversion via π-π stacking interactions of PDA and the surface plasmon effects of Ag NPs, enabling rapid solar-to-thermal energy conversion. Moreover, the CPCM demonstrates remarkable water resistance, self-cleaning ability, and long-term thermal reliability, retaining its functionality through 100 heating–cooling cycles. This multifunctional balsa-based CPCM represents a breakthrough in integrating phase-change behavior with advanced environmental adaptability, offering promising applications in solar–thermal energy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Superhydrophobic Materials and Their Application)
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22 pages, 3114 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Restorative Interior Design Elements: Screen-Based Versus Virtual Reality Evaluations for Future Medical Treatment Prospects
by Alp Tural and Elif Tural
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22010044 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 341
Abstract
Given the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depression, this research aims to identify design features that enhance the sense of restoration, with the goal of supporting mental and behavioral healthcare facility design. This study employed both screen-based and virtual reality (VR) stimuli to [...] Read more.
Given the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depression, this research aims to identify design features that enhance the sense of restoration, with the goal of supporting mental and behavioral healthcare facility design. This study employed both screen-based and virtual reality (VR) stimuli to evaluate the perceived restorativeness of different interior settings. The key variables analyzed included window view access, view content, materiality, and room geometry. Thirty-five undergraduate and graduate students assessed 16 distinct interior environments. Findings indicate that the VR presentations generally produced higher restorativeness scores compared with screen-based presentations, though this effect varied across stimuli. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed that larger windows consistently correlated with higher restorativeness scores in both presentation modes. Views of water were rated as most restorative, followed by wooded areas. Natural materials were perceived as significantly more restorative than other materials, particularly in VR presentations. Varied ceiling designs, especially vaulted ceilings, were associated with evaluations of higher restorativeness compared with flat ceiling designs, with this effect more pronounced in VR. This research underscores the potential of VR technology to simulate and assess interior design interventions, offering insights into creating more effective and personalized restorative environments in mental health treatment facilities. The findings can inform evidence-based design strategies for healthcare spaces, supporting treatment processes and patient well-being. Full article
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20 pages, 1712 KiB  
Article
Circular Economy and Technological Innovation in the Forest-Based Sector: A Study on Wood–Plastic Composites Business Plan and Cost Calculations
by Mária Osvaldová and Marek Potkány
Forests 2025, 16(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16010052 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 368
Abstract
It is currently essential to seek innovative solutions for sustainability and the efficient use of resources, rooted in bioeconomy principles and linked to the concepts of the circular economy. Technological innovations supporting the production of wood–plastic composites, using recycled materials, reduce the ecological [...] Read more.
It is currently essential to seek innovative solutions for sustainability and the efficient use of resources, rooted in bioeconomy principles and linked to the concepts of the circular economy. Technological innovations supporting the production of wood–plastic composites, using recycled materials, reduce the ecological footprint. The aim of the study was to present conclusions of the evaluation of the business plan concept’s effectiveness and to propose applications of traditional and innovative cost calculations resulting from the implementation of technological innovations in the production of wood–plastic composites in the forest-based sector in accordance with the principles of the circular economy. Using dynamic methods for evaluating business plan net present value, profitability index, internal rate of return, and discounted payback period, positive recommendations for project rentability were identified under both realistic and pessimistic scenarios. By applying traditional markup calculation, material cost savings of EUR 3.99/m3 were quantified, representing a relative saving of over 2% compared to traditional particle board. Verification of alternative machine hour rate calculation allows for more precise allocation of overhead costs into product pricing and provides the ability to respond swiftly to changes in input parameters. The findings have practical implications for the forest-based sector, as the use of recycled plastics can reduce production costs and increase the competitiveness of production. Full article
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15 pages, 5046 KiB  
Article
Inchworm Robots Utilizing Friction Changes in Magnetorheological Elastomer Footpads Under Magnetic Field Influence
by Yun Xue and Chul-Hee Lee
Micromachines 2025, 16(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16010019 - 26 Dec 2024
Viewed by 355
Abstract
The application of smart materials in robots has attracted considerable research attention. This study developed an inchworm robot that integrates smart materials and a bionic design, using the unique properties of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) to improve the performance of robots in complex environments, [...] Read more.
The application of smart materials in robots has attracted considerable research attention. This study developed an inchworm robot that integrates smart materials and a bionic design, using the unique properties of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) to improve the performance of robots in complex environments, as well as their adaptability and movement efficiency. This research stems from solving the problem of the insufficient adaptability of traditional bionic robots on different surfaces. A robot that combines an MRE foot, an electromagnetic control system, and a bionic motion mechanism was designed and manufactured. The MRE foot was made from silicone rubber mixed with carbonyl iron particles at a specific ratio. Systematic experiments were conducted on three typical surfaces, PMMA, wood, and copper plates, to test the friction characteristics and motion performance of the robot. On all tested surfaces, the friction force of the MRE foot was reduced significantly after applying a magnetic field. For example, on the PMMA surface, the friction force of the front leg dropped from 2.09 N to 1.90 N, and that of the hind leg decreased from 3.34 N to 1.75 N. The robot movement speed increased by 1.79, 1.76, and 1.13 times on PMMA, wooden, and copper plate surfaces, respectively. The MRE-based intelligent foot design improved the environmental adaptability and movement efficiency of the inchworm robot significantly, providing new ideas for the application of intelligent materials in the field of bionic robots and solutions to movement challenges in complex environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnetorheological Materials and Application Systems)
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15 pages, 9175 KiB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Biodegradable, Binderless Fiberboards from Eggplant Straw Fibers
by Hailun Fan, Xiulun Wang, Tingting Wu, Jianzhong Sun and Jun Liu
Materials 2025, 18(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18010037 - 25 Dec 2024
Viewed by 258
Abstract
Currently, wood-based panels are mainly made from wood and adhesives containing formaldehyde. With the growing demand for raw materials and increasing concern for human health, the use of residues from annual crops to manufacture binder-free biodegradable biomass boards has attracted increasing interest. The [...] Read more.
Currently, wood-based panels are mainly made from wood and adhesives containing formaldehyde. With the growing demand for raw materials and increasing concern for human health, the use of residues from annual crops to manufacture binder-free biodegradable biomass boards has attracted increasing interest. The aim of this study was to develop a biodegradable bio-board without any adhesives using eggplant straw fibers. The bio-boards were produced via simple mechanical refinement of eggplant straw fibers and were formed under pressures of 2.0 MPa, 3.5 MPa, 5.0 MPa, 6.5 MPa, and 8.0 MPa. The mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the manufactured bio-boards were evaluated. With increasing applied pressure, the bending rupture stress of the bio-boards increased from 27.69 MPa to 45.29 MPa, the tensile rupture stress varied from 12.45 MPa to 24.62 MPa, the water absorption decreased from 91.45% to 88.29%, and the contact angle increased from 89.67° to 90.45°. The bio-boards were subjected to morphological analysis (SEM) and porosity and crystallinity measurements (XRD), and the results indicated that the water absorption of the bio-boards was due to a combination of porosity and crystallinity. The results showed that eggplant straw is suitable for manufacturing bio-boards. Full article
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38 pages, 12608 KiB  
Review
Extraction of Natural-Based Raw Materials Towards the Production of Sustainable Man-Made Organic Fibres
by Ana Catarina Vale, Liliana Leite, Vânia Pais, João Bessa, Fernando Cunha and Raul Fangueiro
Polymers 2024, 16(24), 3602; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16243602 - 23 Dec 2024
Viewed by 631
Abstract
Bioresources have been gaining popularity due to their abundance, renewability, and recyclability. Nevertheless, given their diverse composition and complex hierarchical structures, these bio-based sources must be carefully processed to effectively extract valuable raw polymeric materials suitable for producing man-made organic fibres. This review [...] Read more.
Bioresources have been gaining popularity due to their abundance, renewability, and recyclability. Nevertheless, given their diverse composition and complex hierarchical structures, these bio-based sources must be carefully processed to effectively extract valuable raw polymeric materials suitable for producing man-made organic fibres. This review will first highlight the most relevant bio-based sources, with a particular focus on promising unconventional biomass sources (terrestrial vegetables, aquatic vegetables, fungi, and insects), as well as agroforestry and industrial biowaste (food, paper/wood, and textile). For each source, typical applications and the biopolymers usually extracted will also be outlined. Furthermore, acknowledging the challenging lignocellulosic structure and composition of these sources, an overview of conventional and emerging pre-treatments and extraction methods, namely physical, chemical, physicochemical, and biological methodologies, will also be presented. Additionally, this review aims to explore the applications of the compounds obtained in the production of man-made organic fibres (MMOFs). A brief description of their evolution and their distinct properties will be described, as well as the most prominent commercial MMOFs currently available. Ultimately, this review concludes with future perspectives concerning the pursuit of greener and sustainable polymeric sources, as well as effective extraction processes. The potential and main challenges of implementing these sources in the production of alternative man-made organic fibres for diverse applications will also be highlighted. Full article
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11 pages, 4970 KiB  
Article
Detecting Early Degradation of Wood Ultrastructure with Nonlinear Optical Imaging and Fluorescence Lifetime Analysis
by Alice Dal Fovo, Riccardo Cicchi, Claudia Gagliardi, Enrico Baria, Marco Fioravanti and Raffaella Fontana
Polymers 2024, 16(24), 3590; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16243590 - 22 Dec 2024
Viewed by 499
Abstract
Understanding the deterioration processes in wooden artefacts is essential for accurately assessing their conservation status and developing effective preservation strategies. Advanced imaging techniques are currently being explored to study the impact of chemical changes on the structural and mechanical properties of wood. Nonlinear [...] Read more.
Understanding the deterioration processes in wooden artefacts is essential for accurately assessing their conservation status and developing effective preservation strategies. Advanced imaging techniques are currently being explored to study the impact of chemical changes on the structural and mechanical properties of wood. Nonlinear optical modalities, including second harmonic generation (SHG) and two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF), combined with fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), offer a promising non-destructive diagnostic method for evaluating lignocellulose-based materials. In this study, we employed a nonlinear multimodal approach to examine the effects of artificially induced delignification on samples of Norway spruce (Picea abies) and European beech (Fagus sylvatica) subjected to increasing treatment durations. The integration of SHG/TPEF imaging and multi-component fluorescence lifetime analysis enabled the detection of localized variations in nonlinear signals and τ-phase of key biopolymers within wood cell walls. This methodology provides a powerful tool for early detection of wood deterioration, facilitating proactive conservation efforts of wooden artefacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Applied Lignin Research)
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25 pages, 8116 KiB  
Article
Study on Structural Fire Protection and Fire Resistance of Glued Laminated Timber Columns
by Dmitrii A. Korolchenko and Fedor A. Portnov
Buildings 2024, 14(12), 4049; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14124049 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 458
Abstract
Glued wood is one of the most commonly used materials made of wood. Glued wood has many advantages related to its strength characteristics and operation. Nevertheless, due to the use of an adhesive base, it becomes necessary to carefully approach the issue of [...] Read more.
Glued wood is one of the most commonly used materials made of wood. Glued wood has many advantages related to its strength characteristics and operation. Nevertheless, due to the use of an adhesive base, it becomes necessary to carefully approach the issue of the fire resistance of building structures made of glued wood. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of structural fire protection on the fire resistance of glued laminated timber columns; the task of developing methods for experimental and analytical assessments of the fire resistance of glued laminated timber columns, with the possibility of assessing the temperature of the wood under a layer of fire protection, was set, and an analysis of the effectiveness of these methods for assessing the fire resistance of such structures was conducted. The experimental assessment of fire resistance was based on the combined effects of fire and force on structures. The analytical assessment of the fire resistance was carried out using two methods, each of which estimated the time of the beginning of the ignition of the wood, as well as its combustion before the limit state of the structure was reached, but did not ascertain the acting force. As a result of evaluating the effect of structural fire protection on the fire resistance of glued wood columns, data on the heating of wood under a layer of fire protection were obtained, and the relationship between the deformation of the sample and the heating of the layers of fire protection was revealed, consisting of an increase in the ignition time of the wood with an increase in the thickness of the fire protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Buildings and Fire Safety)
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18 pages, 6323 KiB  
Article
Embedment Performance of Glued Laminated Bamboo and Timber Composite Joints
by Zheng Chen, Hao Du, Libin Wang and Xiang Ding
Buildings 2024, 14(12), 4043; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14124043 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 389
Abstract
Dowel connectors are extensively utilized to establish joint connections in timber constructions. This study investigated the embedment performance of glued laminated bamboo and timber composite joints through half-hole tests, focusing on the effects of dowel diameter, loading direction, contact condition, combination method, and [...] Read more.
Dowel connectors are extensively utilized to establish joint connections in timber constructions. This study investigated the embedment performance of glued laminated bamboo and timber composite joints through half-hole tests, focusing on the effects of dowel diameter, loading direction, contact condition, combination method, and moisture content. The experimental results indicated that the embedment strength of the specimens decreased progressively with an increase in dowel diameter. For wood–bamboo–wood (WBW) specimens, the embedment strength in the longitudinal to the grain was 18% higher than in the transverse direction. For bamboo–wood–bamboo (BWB), the embedment strength in the longitudinal to grain was 71% higher than in the transverse to grain. However, the compression direction to the grain had no observable impact on the embedment stiffness. The embedment capacity varied with different combination methods of bamboo and wood materials, and BWB specimens exhibited greater strength than WBW specimens. For WBW specimens, the embedment strength under smooth contact conditions was 61% higher than that under threaded contact conditions. Similarly, for BWB specimens, the embedment strength under smooth contact conditions was 73% higher than that under threaded contact conditions. After 3 days of water immersion, the embedment strength of glued laminated bamboo and timber composite specimens decreased to about 45% of the original strength. After 6 days of water immersion, the embedment strength of glued laminated bamboo and timber composite specimens fell to about 15% of the original strength. Based on the test results, this paper proposed calculation methods for predicting the embedment strength and stiffness of glued laminated bamboo and timber composite joints. Full article
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17 pages, 4901 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Conformity of Mycelium Biocomposites for Ecological Insulation Solutions
by Ilze Irbe, Mikelis Kirpluks, Mikus Kampuss, Laura Andze, Ulla Milbreta and Inese Filipova
Materials 2024, 17(24), 6111; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17246111 - 13 Dec 2024
Viewed by 424
Abstract
In this study, different combinations of mycelium biocomposites (MBs) were developed using primary substrates sourced from the local agricultural, wood processing, and paper industries. The physicomechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and fire behavior were evaluated. The highest bending strength was achieved in composites containing [...] Read more.
In this study, different combinations of mycelium biocomposites (MBs) were developed using primary substrates sourced from the local agricultural, wood processing, and paper industries. The physicomechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and fire behavior were evaluated. The highest bending strength was achieved in composites containing waste fibers and birch sanding dust, with a strength competitive with that of synthetic polymers like EPS and XPS, as well as some commercial building materials. The lowest thermal conductivity was observed in hemp-based MB, with a lambda coefficient of 40 m·W·m−1·K−1, making these composites competitive with non-mycelium insulation materials, including synthetic polymers such as EPS and XPS. Additionally, MB exhibited superior fire resistance compared to various synthetic foams and composite materials. They showed lower peak heat release rates (134–243 k·W·m−2) and total smoke release (7–281 m2·m−2) than synthetic polymers, and lower total heat release (6–62 k·W·m−2) compared to certain wood composites. Overall, the mechanical and thermal properties, along with the fire performance of MB, support their potential as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based and traditional composite materials in the building industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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10 pages, 955 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Brief Overview of Lignin Extraction and Isolation Processes: From Lignocellulosic Biomass to Added-Value Biomaterials
by Raja Saadan, Chaymaa Hachimi Alaoui, Aziz Ihammi, Mohamed Chigr and Ahmed Fatimi
Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031003 - 12 Dec 2024
Viewed by 505
Abstract
Lignin is one of the three major components of the cell wall of lignocellulosic biomaterials. It is the second-most abundant polymer in nature. It is a complex and heterogeneous polymer found in the cell walls of lignocellulosic biomass. Lignin’s predominant composition, which is [...] Read more.
Lignin is one of the three major components of the cell wall of lignocellulosic biomaterials. It is the second-most abundant polymer in nature. It is a complex and heterogeneous polymer found in the cell walls of lignocellulosic biomass. Lignin’s predominant composition, which is rich in carbon and aromatic structures, enhances its value by enabling the development of high-value chemicals and bio-based materials. As one of the most affluent natural renewable sources of aromatic structures and the world’s second-largest renewable source of carbon, lignin possesses a thermal value comparable to that of carbon. Its aromatic constituents exhibit unique chemical properties and significant bioactive effects, making lignin a crucial material in various advanced applications. Different chemical fractionation methods have been designed to overcome the obstacles to extracting the lignin biopolymer from lignocellulosic biomass. Lignin fractionation is a process that involves separating lignin from other components of biomass feedstock, such as cellulose and hemicellulose. This process is commonly used in the paper and pulp industry to obtain valuable lignin derivatives that can be used in various applications, including, among others, biofuels, chemicals, and biomaterials. In the brief overview described in this proceedings paper, we provide a comprehensive chemical overview of the current processes for extracting technical lignin from wood and lignocellulosic biomass, critically evaluating the advantages and limitations of each method. Full article
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9 pages, 801 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Challenges for Wood–Plastic Composites: Increasing Wood Content and Internal Compatibility
by Pieter Samyn
Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031001 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 347
Abstract
Wood–plastic composites (WPCs) are interesting materials as the biobased content is determined by the inclusion of wood particles regenerated from residual wood sources or biomass products. At present, the aim is to increase the wood content in WPCs above 60%, while it is [...] Read more.
Wood–plastic composites (WPCs) are interesting materials as the biobased content is determined by the inclusion of wood particles regenerated from residual wood sources or biomass products. At present, the aim is to increase the wood content in WPCs above 60%, while it is currently limited to around 40%. The rationale behind this is based on the need for an increase in the performance of WPCs, the relatively cheap price of wood and the aim to augment the biobased content. Most studies are presently carried out with a maximum of 50% wood particles (preferably ranging from around 30 to 40%), while there are only very few sources where the wood concentration is increased to 70%. The formulations are not yet optimized and there are problems in interface compatibility, leading to weak mechanical properties. Problems in the augmentation of the wood content have to be further controlled, e.g., aggregation, dimensional stability and water absorption. Alternative approaches for the treatment of wood chips before (or during) compounding with the polymer matrix should therefore be developed. As the water resistance is mainly related to the control of the surface properties of the hydroscopic wood particles, possible solutions should consider the better protection of the individual wood particles’ surfaces against water ingress, the better development of the wood–polymer interface and the prevention of the formation of a continuous network with contacting wood particles. Therefore, this overview suggests various processing routes together with their industrial potential based on various sources from the literature, including the effects of compatibilizers and additives, the spray coating of wood particles, chemical pretreatment, physical modifications and the thermal treatment of wood fillers. Full article
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17 pages, 2201 KiB  
Article
Life Cycle Assessment of Torrefied Residual Biomass Co-Firing in Coal-Fired Power Plants: Aspects of Carbon Dioxide Emission
by Kyungil Cho and Yongwoon Lee
Energies 2024, 17(23), 6165; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17236165 - 6 Dec 2024
Viewed by 467
Abstract
This study investigates the carbon dioxide (CO2) emission characteristics of using torrefied biomass (residual wood and wood chip) as co-firing materials in coal-fired power plants, based on life cycle assessment techniques. We quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation potential of substituting [...] Read more.
This study investigates the carbon dioxide (CO2) emission characteristics of using torrefied biomass (residual wood and wood chip) as co-firing materials in coal-fired power plants, based on life cycle assessment techniques. We quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation potential of substituting coal with biomass under different torrefaction temperatures, biomass types, and co-firing ratios. Results indicate that higher co-firing ratios significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Torrefaction at 270 °C was identified as optimal, balancing high energy yield and minimized emissions, while 310 °C torrefaction showed limited mitigation benefits due to lower mass yields and higher carbon content. Pelletization and torrefaction enhanced biomass properties, but the energy intensity of these processes affected the overall emission balance. This study underscores the potential of biomass to replace imported coal and contribute to carbon neutrality, while highlighting the importance of optimizing biomass processing conditions. Future work should focus on refining torrefaction parameters and assessing other biomass characteristics to enhance operational efficiency in coal-fired power plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A4: Bio-Energy)
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