The Expansion of Lignocellulose Biomass Conversion Into Bioenergy via Nanobiotechnology

Lignocellulosic biomass has arisen as a solution to our energy and environmental challenges because it is rich in feedstock that can be converted to biofuels. Converting lignocellulosic biomass to sugar is a complicated system involved in the bioconversion process. There are indeed a variety of techniques that have been utilized in the bioconversion process consisting of physical, chemical, and biological approaches. However, most of them have drawbacks when used on a large scale, which include the high cost of processing, the development of harmful inhibitors, and the detoxification of the inhibitors that have been produced. These constraints, taken together, hinder the effectiveness of current solutions and demand for the invention of a new, productive, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable technique for LB processing. In this context, the approach of nanotechnology utilizing various nanomaterials and nanoparticles in treating lignocellulose biomass and bioenergy conversion has achieved increased interest and has been explored greatly in recent times. This mini review delves into the application of nanotechnological techniques in the bioconversion of lignocellulose biomass into bioenergy. This review on nanotechnological application in biomass conversion provides insights and development tools for the expansion of new sectors, resulting in excellent value and productivity, contributing to the long-term economic progress.

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Anti-meningococcal B vaccination in Italian adolescents: a cost-effective health opportunity

European Journal of Public Health ◽

10.1093/eurpub/ckaa166.586 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽

Author(s):

D Panatto ◽

P Landa ◽

D Amicizia ◽

P L Lai ◽

E Lecini ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Large Scale ◽

Public Health Problem ◽

Vaccination Strategy ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Dose Schedule ◽

Developed Countries ◽

Invasive Disease ◽

International Setting ◽

The Impact

Abstract Background Invasive disease due to Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) is a serious public health problem even in developed countries, owing to its high lethality rate (8-15%) and the invalidating sequelae suffered by many (up to 60%) survivors. As the microorganism is transmitted via the airborne route, the only available weapon in the fight against Nm invasive disease is vaccination. Our aim was to carry out an HTA to evaluate the costs and benefits of anti-meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination with Trumenba® in adolescents in Italy, while also considering the impact of this new vaccination strategy on organizational and ethics aspects. Methods A lifetime Markov model was developed. MenB vaccination with the two-dose schedule of Trumenba® in adolescents was compared with 'non-vaccination'. Two perspectives were considered: the National Health Service (NHS) and society. Three disease phases were defined: acute, post-acute and long-term. Epidemiological, economic and health utilities data were taken from Italian and international literature. The analysis was conducted by means of Microsoft Excel 2010®. Results Our study indicated that vaccinating adolescents (11th year of life) with Trumenba® was cost-effective with an ICER = € 7,912/QALY from the NHS perspective and € 7,758/QALY from the perspective of society. Vaccinating adolescents reduces the number of cases of disease due to meningococcus B in one of the periods of highest incidence of the disease, resulting in significant economic and health savings. Conclusions This is the first study to evaluate the overall impact of free MenB vaccination in adolescents both in Italy and in the international setting. Although cases of invasive disease due to meningococcus B are few, if the overall impact of the disease is adequately considered, it becomes clear that including anti-meningococcal B vaccination into the immunization program for adolescents is strongly recommended from the health and economic standpoints. Key messages Free, large-scale MenB vaccination is key to strengthening the global fight against invasive meningococcal disease. Anti-meningococcal B vaccination in adolescents is a cost-effective health opportunity.

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Current Developments in Lignocellulosic Biomass Conversion into Biofuels Using Nanobiotechology Approach

Energies ◽

10.3390/en13205300 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 13 (20) ◽

pp. 5300

Author(s):

Mamata Singhvi ◽

Beom Soo Kim

Keyword(s):

Lignocellulosic Biomass ◽

Enzyme Immobilization ◽

Enzyme Stability ◽

Biomass Conversion ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Reaction Rates ◽

Biofuel Production ◽

Potential Strategy ◽

Lignocellulosic Biomass Conversion ◽

Review Current

The conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LB) to sugar is an intricate process which is the costliest part of the biomass conversion process. Even though acid/enzyme catalysts are usually being used for LB hydrolysis, enzyme immobilization has been recognized as a potential strategy nowadays. The use of nanobiocatalysts increases hydrolytic efficiency and enzyme stability. Furthermore, biocatalyst/enzyme immobilization on magnetic nanoparticles enables easy recovery and reuse of enzymes. Hence, the exploitation of nanobiocatalysts for LB to biofuel conversion will aid in developing a lucrative and sustainable approach. With this perspective, the effects of nanobiocatalysts on LB to biofuel production were reviewed here. Several traits, such as switching the chemical processes using nanomaterials, enzyme immobilization on nanoparticles for higher reaction rates, recycling ability and toxicity effects on microbial cells, were highlighted in this review. Current developments and viability of nanobiocatalysts as a promising option for enhanced LB conversion into the biofuel process were also emphasized. Mostly, this would help in emerging eco-friendly, proficient, and cost-effective biofuel technology.

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A Review of Downhole Wireless Technologies and Improvements

10.2118/207466-ms ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Brett Bouldin ◽

Ahmed AlShmakhy ◽

Ahmed Khaled Bazuhair ◽

Muzoon Hasan Alzaabi ◽

Jarl André Fellinghaug

Keyword(s):

Wireless Communication ◽

Flow Rate ◽

Large Scale ◽

Pressure Pulse ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Directional Drilling ◽

Wireless Technologies ◽

Advantages And Disadvantages ◽

Wireless Telemetry

Abstract Downhole wireless communication in the form of mud pulse telemetry enabled directional drilling over the past 60 years and has been hugely successful. Technologies like Measurement While Drilling (MWD), Logging While Drilling (LWD), and Geosteering would simply not exist without it. But in the Production and Producing end of the business, applications for downhole wireless communication have been less clear, especially where long distances and long-term monitoring are concerned. Several wireless technologies are in use today for long-term production applications. Electromagnetic (EM), acoustic, and pressure pulse telemetries are finding application as wireless production gauges, drill stem test tools, and drilling alternatives to pressure pulse. But the large-scale vision of, "Breaking the Wire!" in production wells has not yet occurred. Permanent Downhole Gauges (PDG) with an umbilical to surface are still the product of choice for long-term production monitoring. A history of wireless approaches in production applications will be given and the different methods used in the industry will be explained. A comparison and contrast of wireless telemetry methods will be explored, explained, and evaluated. Advantages and disadvantages will be listed for each approach. A ranking system will be employed to illustrate the evaluation results of the different wireless telemetry methods. New variants for wireless telemetry, power supplies, and measurement methods will be proposed. Preferred applications for each gauge type will be given. Downhole gauges can be improved by integrating pressure pulse, a downhole power generator, and downhole flow rate measurement into a single unit. The overall size can be ten times shorter than existing systems while still generating a larger wireless signal. Such a system would make wireless downhole gauges much more practical and should significantly increase their uptake in the industry. Real-time measurement of downhole pressure and downhole flow rate transforms the accuracy and effectiveness of Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA). Better reservoir understanding can be gained by using only drawdown tests, without shutting in the well. Smaller tools are generally more cost effective.

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Enhanced Spatial–Temporal Map-Based Video Analytic Platform and Its Local- Versus Cloud-Based Deployment with Regional 511 Camera Network

Transportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board ◽

10.1177/03611981211036377 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 036119812110363

Author(s):

Yi Ge ◽

Peter J. Jin ◽

Tianya Zhang ◽

Jonathan Martinez

Keyword(s):

Computer Vision ◽

Large Scale ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Splitting Algorithm ◽

Lane Changes ◽

Traffic Video ◽

The Cost ◽

Vision Algorithm ◽

Traffic Detection

This paper explores the cloud- versus server-based deployment scenarios of an enhanced computer vision platform for potential deployment on low-resolution 511 traffic video streams. An existing computer vision algorithm based on a spatial–temporal map and designed for high-angle traffic video like that of NGSIM (Next Generation SIMulation) is enhanced for roadside CCTV traffic camera angles. Because of the lower visual angle, determining the directions, splitting vehicles from occlusions, and identifying lane changes become difficult. A motion-flow-based direction determination method, a bisection occlusion detection and splitting algorithm, and a lane-change tracking method are proposed. The model evaluation is conducted by using videos from multiple cameras from the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s 511 traffic video surveillance system. The results show promising performance in both accuracy and computational efficiency for potential large-scale cloud deployment. The cost analysis reveals that at the current pricing model of cloud computing, the cloud-based deployment is more convenient and cost-effective for an on-demand network assessment. In contrast, the dedicated-server-based deployment is more economical for long-term traffic detection deployment.

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Wastewater biosolids as an environmentally sustainable resource: Keys to success

Water Practice & Technology ◽

10.2166/wpt.2008.009 ◽

2008 ◽

Vol 3 (1) ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Ronald J. LeBlanc ◽

Conrad J. Allain ◽

Peter J. Laughton

Keyword(s):

Wastewater Treatment ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Management Plan ◽

Environmentally Sustainable ◽

The Public ◽

Global Issues ◽

Big Picture ◽

Key Issues ◽

Meaningful Communication

The paper traces the success of a large Canadian wastewater utility that has dealt with the issue of biosolids management and recycling to the extent that it now has more demand for its biosolids than it produces. The Greater Moncton Sewerage Commission's (GMSC) problem is not one of disposing of biosolids, but one of determining which product and uses will be best for the environment as well as being most sustainable and cost effective in the long term. Wastewater treatment and the management of the sludge or biosolids produced are global issues, with growing challenges, that must address the concerns of all of the stakeholders, including the facility administrators and operators, regulators and elected officials, the scientific community, wastewater generators, taxpayers and the general public. The failure to take into consideration the concerns of all of the stakeholders including the lack of meaningful communication with the public has resulted in predictable but preventable problems, including the banning of scientifically acceptable biosolids recycling options in different countries. Consequently, a successful and viable wastewater treatment and biosolids recycling management plan requires a "big picture" view and a sustainable approach, which takes into consideration the concerns of all stakeholders. The paper will deal with key issues to the success of an environmentally sustainable biosolids management programme.

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Cyclic CO2 Capture Behavior of Limestone Modified by Qinghai Lake Salt During Long-Term Calcium Looping Cycles

Volume 1: Boilers and Heat Recovery Steam Generator; Combustion Turbines; Energy Water Sustainability; Fuels, Combustion and Material Handling; Heat Exchangers, Condensers, Cooling Systems, and Balance-of-Plant ◽

10.1115/power-icope2017-3337 ◽

2017 ◽

Author(s):

Yongqing Xu ◽

Haoran Ding ◽

Cong Luo ◽

Ying Zheng ◽

Qiyao Wang ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Co2 Capture ◽

Large Scale ◽

Salt Water ◽

Fixed Bed ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Sem Analysis ◽

Fixed Bed Reactor ◽

Qinghai Lake ◽

Impregnation Method

A modified sorbent was prepared by a novel hydration-impregnation method. Results indicated that hydrating with salt water can obtain enhanced capacity of the sorbents during multiple calcination/carbonation reactions. After 40 cycles, the modified limestone sorbent doped with 2wt% lake salt remained a CO2 capture capacity of 0.34 g of CO2 of sorbent, which was 150% higher than that of natural limestone. XRF and XRD were tested for analyzing the chemical component of the sorbents. A Fixed-bed reactor was applied to test the absorption characteristics of those sorbents. SEM analysis revealed that macropores in this novel sorbent were relatively stable during long-term cycles. A preliminary economic analysis of different modified calcium-based sorbents was conducted, and the results demonstrated that limestone modified by lake salt is a promising scheme for large-scale sorbent production, which is a well cost-effective and pollution free scenario suitable for industrial promotion. (CSPE)

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Nearly zero energy renovation concepts for apartment buildings

E3S Web of Conferences ◽

10.1051/e3sconf/202017218009 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 172 ◽

pp. 18009

Author(s):

Kalle Kuusk ◽

Jens Naumann ◽

Annina Gritzki ◽

Clemens Felsmann ◽

Michele De Carli ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Large Scale ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Energy Performance ◽

Building Envelope ◽

Energy Calculation ◽

Zero Energy ◽

Apartment Buildings ◽

Effective Manner ◽

The Impact

Revised EPBD directive has set ambitious targets for renovation. It is stated that Member States shall establish a long-term strategy facilitating the cost-effective transformation of existing buildings into nearly-zero energy buildings. The long-term strategy should set out a roadmap with a view to the long-term 2050 goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union. This creates the need for cost-efficient renovation solutions which can be implemented in large scale. The impact assessment shows that roughly a doubled renovation rate of 3 % would be needed to accomplish the energy efficiency ambitions in a cost-effective manner. The objective of this study is to specify renovation concepts with adequate heating and ventilation, based on Estonian and German apartment buildings and corresponding local solutions. Energy performance and sizing analyses were conducted for selected multifamily apartment buildings typical for 1960-70es with three different renovation concepts. Energy calculations were conducted with national energy calculation methods and national energy requirements for major renovation. In the renovation, the building envelope insulation, air tightness, and heating and ventilation systems were improved so that the renovated building complies with national nearly zero-energy requirement for major renovation.

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C-O Bond Hydrogenolysis of Aqueous Mixtures of Sugar Polyols and Sugars over ReOx-Rh/ZrO2 Catalyst: Application to an Hemicelluloses Extracted Liquor

Catalysts ◽

10.3390/catal9090740 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 9 (9) ◽

pp. 740 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Modibo Mounguengui-Diallo ◽

Achraf Sadier ◽

Eddi Noly ◽

Denilson Da Silva Perez ◽

Catherine Pinel ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Lignocellulosic Biomass ◽

Biomass Conversion ◽

Bond Cleavage ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Maritime Pine ◽

Synthetic Mixture ◽

Aqueous Mixtures ◽

Bond Scission ◽

Zro2 Catalyst ◽

Lignocellulosic Biomass Conversion

The recovery and upgrade of hemicelluloses, a family of heteropolysaccharides in wood, is a key step to making lignocellulosic biomass conversion a cost-effective sustainable process in biorefinery. The comparative selective catalytic C-O bond hydrogenolysis of C5-C6 polyols, sugars, and their mixtures for the production of valuable C6 and C5 deoxygenated products was studied at 200 °C under 80 bar H2 over ReOx-Rh/ZrO2 catalysts. The sugars were rapidly converted to the polyols or converted into their hydrogenolysis products. Regardless of the reactants, C-O bond cleavage occurred significantly via multiple consecutive deoxygenation steps and led to the formation of linear deoxygenated C6 or C5 polyols. The distribution of products depended on the nature of the substrate and C-C bond scission was more important from monosaccharides. In addition, we demonstrated effective hydrogenolysis of a hemicellulose-extracted liquor from delignified maritime pine containing monosaccharides and low MW oligomers. Compared with the sugar-derived polyols, the mono- and oligosaccharides in the liquor were more rapidly converted to hexanediols or pentanediols. C-O bond scission was significant, giving a yield of desired deoxygenated products as high as 65%, higher than in the reaction of the synthetic mixture of glucose/xylose of the same C6/C5 sugar ratio (yield of 30%).

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Pretreatment of Lignocellulosic Materials as Substrates for Fermentation Processes

Molecules ◽

10.3390/molecules23112937 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 23 (11) ◽

pp. 2937 ◽

Cited By ~ 93

Author(s):

Karolina Kucharska ◽

Piotr Rybarczyk ◽

Iwona Hołowacz ◽

Rafał Łukajtis ◽

Marta Glinka ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Lignocellulosic Biomass ◽

Organic Compounds ◽

Large Scale ◽

Fossil Fuels ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Renewable Resource ◽

Biomass Pretreatment ◽

Lignocellulosic Materials ◽

Fermentation Processes ◽

Cellulose Digestibility

Lignocellulosic biomass is an abundant and renewable resource that potentially contains large amounts of energy. It is an interesting alternative for fossil fuels, allowing the production of biofuels and other organic compounds. In this paper, a review devoted to the processing of lignocellulosic materials as substrates for fermentation processes is presented. The review focuses on physical, chemical, physicochemical, enzymatic, and microbiologic methods of biomass pretreatment. In addition to the evaluation of the mentioned methods, the aim of the paper is to understand the possibilities of the biomass pretreatment and their influence on the efficiency of biofuels and organic compounds production. The effects of different pretreatment methods on the lignocellulosic biomass structure are described along with a discussion of the benefits and drawbacks of each method, including the potential generation of inhibitory compounds for enzymatic hydrolysis, the effect on cellulose digestibility, the generation of compounds that are toxic for the environment, and energy and economic demand. The results of the investigations imply that only the stepwise pretreatment procedure may ensure effective fermentation of the lignocellulosic biomass. Pretreatment step is still a challenge for obtaining cost-effective and competitive technology for large-scale conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fermentable sugars with low inhibitory concentration.

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Advances in Valorization of Lignocellulosic Biomass towards Energy Generation

Catalysts ◽

10.3390/catal11030309 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (3) ◽

pp. 309

Author(s):

Ikram ul Haq ◽

Kinza Qaisar ◽

Ali Nawaz ◽

Fatima Akram ◽

Hamid Mukhtar ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Lignocellulosic Biomass ◽

Sustainable Energy ◽

Value Added ◽

Cost Effective ◽

Energy Output ◽

Sustainable Energy Systems ◽

Pros And Cons ◽

Fuel Source ◽

Value Added Products

The booming demand for energy across the world, especially for petroleum-based fuels, has led to the search for a long-term solution as a perfect source of sustainable energy. Lignocellulosic biomass resolves this obstacle as it is a readily available, inexpensive, and renewable fuel source that fulfills the criteria of sustainability. Valorization of lignocellulosic biomass and its components into value-added products maximizes the energy output and promotes the approach of lignocellulosic biorefinery. However, disruption of the recalcitrant structure of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) via pretreatment technologies is costly and power-/heat-consuming. Therefore, devising an effective pretreatment method is a challenge. Likewise, the thermochemical and biological lignocellulosic conversion poses problems of efficiency, operational costs, and energy consumption. The advent of integrated technologies would probably resolve this problem. However, it is yet to be explored how to make it applicable at a commercial scale. This article will concisely review basic concepts of lignocellulosic composition and the routes opted by them to produce bioenergy. Moreover, it will also discuss the pros and cons of the pretreatment and conversion methods of lignocellulosic biomass. This critical analysis will bring to light the solutions for efficient and cost-effective conversion of lignocellulosic biomass that would pave the way for the development of sustainable energy systems.

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