Topic Editors

Department of Civil Engineering, California State Polytechnic University Pomona, Pomona, CA 91768, USA
Dr. Tolulope A. Agunbiade
Kingsville Citrus Center, Texas A&M University, 312 N International Blvd, Weslaco, TX, USA

Converting and Recycling of Waste Materials

Abstract submission deadline
29 July 2026
Manuscript submission deadline
30 September 2026
Viewed by
266

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Topic brings together multidisciplinary research focused on transforming agricultural residues, biomass, and agro-industrial byproducts with value-added, carbon-based products. Innovations in thermal, biological, and chemical conversion technologies offer promising solutions to reduce waste, enhance soil health, generate renewable energy, and create sustainable chemicals, supporting circular bioeconomies and climate-smart practices.

We invite contributions that explore the development, optimization, and application of technologies such as biochar production, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, composting, and fermentation, particularly those that generate environmental, economic, and social co-benefits in the context of sustainable agriculture, food security, and resource recovery. These technologies have the potential to improve plant health, reduce disease pressures, support equitable food systems, and enhance STEM education through real-world applications and community engagement. We especially welcome interdisciplinary work that connects technical innovation with inclusive pedagogical strategies and equity-centered practices, fostering collaboration among researchers, educators, and practitioners across engineering, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, and social sciences.

By bridging technical innovation with inclusive practices, this Topic seeks to advance knowledge and real-world impact in waste valorization, agroecology, and sustainability education.

Dr. Simeng Li
Dr. Tolulope A. Agunbiade
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • waste valorization
  • biochar
  • biogas
  • agro-industrial byproducts
  • sustainable agriculture
  • soil amendments
  • circular bioeconomy
  • STEM education
  • food security

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
C
carbon
2.9 3.4 2015 24.3 Days CHF 1600 Submit
Polymers
polymers
4.9 9.7 2009 14 Days CHF 2700 Submit
Recycling
recycling
4.6 8.9 2016 20.9 Days CHF 1800 Submit
Sustainability
sustainability
3.3 7.7 2009 19.3 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Waste
waste
- - 2023 30.5 Days CHF 1000 Submit

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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16 pages, 6965 KB  
Article
Upcycling RDF with Mill Scale and Waste Glass for Eco-Friendly Ferrosilicon Alloy Synthesis via Carbothermic Reduction
by Krishmanust Sunankingphet, Thanaporn Chandransu, Sitichoke Amnuanpol and Somyote Kongkarat
Recycling 2025, 10(5), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10050182 - 25 Sep 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the valorization of refuse-derived fuel (RDF), waste glass, and mill scale for sustainable ferrosilicon alloy production, contributing to zero-waste practices. RDF was blended with anthracite at ratios of 100, 90, 80, 70, 60 and 50 wt% (designated R1–R6) and applied [...] Read more.
This study investigates the valorization of refuse-derived fuel (RDF), waste glass, and mill scale for sustainable ferrosilicon alloy production, contributing to zero-waste practices. RDF was blended with anthracite at ratios of 100, 90, 80, 70, 60 and 50 wt% (designated R1–R6) and applied as a reducing agent in the carbothermic reduction of SiO2 and Fe2O3, thereby decreasing reliance on conventional fossil-based reductants. Ferrosilicon synthesis was conducted at 1550 °C using glass–mill scale blends with reducing agents R1–R6, producing samples named blends A–F. XRD analysis confirmed that the metallic products consisted predominantly of the FeSi intermetallic phase, with characteristic (110) and (310) peaks at 2θ ≈ 45.02° and 78°. The metallic products appeared as numerous small, shiny droplets, with yields ranging from 14.85 to 19.47 wt%; blends D–F exhibited the highest yields. In contrast, blends A–C produced metals with higher Si contents (23.34–27.11 wt%) due to enhanced SiO2 reduction and efficient Si incorporation into the Fe matrix. Gas analysis and oxygen removal showed that blend B achieved the highest CO generation and reduction extent. Cl removal during RDF heat treatment indicated minimal potential for dioxin and furan formation. Overall, blends A and C were identified as optimal, providing high Si content, satisfactory metallic yield, and reduced CO/CO2 emissions, demonstrating the effectiveness of RDF-based carbons for environmentally friendly ferrosilicon production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Converting and Recycling of Waste Materials)
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