Research Articles

The mechanical, moisture absorption, and chemical bonding properties were studied for hybrid polyester composites reinforced with snake grass (SG) fiber and Sal wood (S) and Babool (B) sawdust fillers. Composites were fabricated via compression molding with 60% polyester resin and varying filler-fiber ratios. Mechanical tests showed tensile strength increasing from 38 MPa (S1) to 56 MPa (S4), flexural strength peaking at 85 MPa (S4), and maximum hardness of 84 Shore D (S4). Impact strength reached 6.98 J (S4). Water absorption decreased with higher filler content, with S4 absorbing only 21%. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed improved interfacial bonding in S3 and S4, while S1 showed voids and fiber pull-out. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed enhanced chemical interactions in samples with optimized filler-fiber ratios, particularly in S4, contributing to its superior performance. The filler-fiber composition was optimized to maximize mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and chemical bonding, demonstrating the potential of these sustainable composites for durable, eco-friendly applications.

Over the past decade, advances in bioenergy technology have enabled the expansion of renewable energy consumption. Projections indicate that roughly 30% of the anticipated increase in renewable energy utilization will stem from modern bioenergy in its solid, liquid, and gaseous fuel manifestations, owing to its substantial role in heat and transportation sectors. At present, fossil fuels account for 60% of global electricity generation, while renewables contribute 30%. Notably, Turkey surpasses this global average, with renewables constituting 36% of its electricity production. In 2002, Turkey’s electricity output from renewable sources stood at 34 billion kWh; by 2023, it had surged by 300% to reach 200 billion kWh. Likewise, the installed renewable energy capacity, which was about 12,300 MW in 2002, has more than tripled, exceeding 82,700 MW in 2023. This research delves into biomass, a key pillar of renewable energy, analyzing its potential, technological advancements, significance, and current status in Turkey. Furthermore, it aligns with one of Turkey’s foremost energy strategies that focuses on enhancing domestic and renewable energy production.

The combined effects of temperature, Fe (III) contents, NH₄⁺-N contents, and soil-liquid ratio were evaluated relative to the loss of NH₄⁺-N in soils using a response surface methodology (RSM). The microbial mechanisms were explored for nitrogen transformation by quantifying functional genes related to nitrification and denitrification. According to parameter optimization analysis for prediction equation, the maximum NH₄⁺-N loss was 86.1% under the conditions of 17.0 °C, 0.772 g·kg^-1 Fe (III), 21.9 mg·kg⁻¹ NH₄⁺-N, and soil: liquid ratio of 1:1. The prediction result was similar to experimental data in the current study, which the NH₄⁺-N loss was 83.2% under the condition of 25 °C, 0.723 g·kg^-1 Fe (III), 20 mg·kg⁻¹ NH₄⁺-N, and soil-liquid ratio of 1:1. While the N₂O flux reached its minimum value of 8.35 μg·m⁻²·h^–¹ under the experimental conditions, correlating with gene copy numbers for ammonia-oxidizing bacteria ammonia monooxygenase subunit A gene (AOB-amoA), and nitrite reductase genes (nirK) were maximum values of 4.5×10⁵ and 4.8×10⁵ copies·g^-1, respectively. NH₄⁺-N loss resulted from multiple interacting processes beyond ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) mediated oxidation. The research findings can provide insights for reducing nitrogen application to avoid NH₄⁺ toxicity and increasing soil planting suitability.

Environmentally friendly and biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) film combined with Phellodendron amurense extract was used to prepare an anti-UV composite film through thermal flow molding technology. The prepared PVOH composite film containing Phellodendron amurense extract exhibited UV-resistant properties, with the composite film made from leaf extract showing the highest UV resistance. Additionally, the tensile strength and toughness of the PVOH composite film with added Phellodendron amurense extract significantly increased compared to pure PVOH film. Studies on film-forming and UV-resistant mechanisms have revealed that extract particles can act as nucleating agents to promote the local ordered arrangement of PVOH molecular chains, forming microcrystalline regions. This enhances the tensile strength of composite films while maintaining their toughness. During the film-forming process, the extract forms hydrogen bonds with PVOH, and the benzene ring conjugated double bonds in the extract can absorb ultraviolet light, contributing to the UV resistance of the PVOH composite film. The composite film prepared from Phellodendron amurense extract and PVOH with UV resistance and high strength can be applied in fields such as packaging, food, and sunscreen products, which is of great significance for promoting the efficient development and utilization of biomass resources.

This study showcases the characterization of a surface modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fiber membrane via Cellulose/PVDF coating. Scanning electron microscopy shows evidence of Cellulose/PVDF coating where surface roughness and coating lines with cracking is visible. The rough surface correlates with an improved pure water flux. However, the presence of surface cracks and higher cellulose loading results in decreased flux. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy shows evidence of cellulose on the coated membrane. X-Ray diffraction revealed amorphous phase on the surface of the coated membrane, indicating that coated membrane has improved hydrophilic properties. The coated membrane samples have improved pure water flux performance up to 3 times the value from control (157.8864 L/m²/h/bar) for samples P01 (432.9142 L/m²/h/bar) and P02 (483.8453 L/m²/h/bar) which is the best performing membrane. The porosity and mean pore size correlate with the pure water flux as increase in porosity with increased mean pore size enables better permeability. However, the increased porosity with decreased mean pore size causes a clogging effect which may be attributed to the swelling of the membrane when in contact with the pure water. Overall, the cellulose/PVDF coating modifies the surface properties by developing a rough and porous hydrophilic layer. It enables better performance for the hydrophobic PVDF hollow fiber membrane.

Being in an urban or developed area can adversely affect human well-being. On the other hand, human well-being is supported by recreational activities, which are often carried out outside, particularly in natural areas. Most research on such topics has focused on non-urban/non-developed areas, for which the term ecosystem services describes the direct and indirect benefits that people may receive. In developed regions, limited access to natural features can hinder these benefits. This study explored the specific case of a tree-walking route located within a developed campus in the US. This route is noteworthy for its diverse collection of 40 distinct woody species, which contributes to the campus’s green infrastructure. Two on-site observations were carried out to visually document the trees on the route and to understanding ecological value. An AI-based mobile application, ‘Picture This’, was used to follow the route as a self-guided participant. The results indicate that it is possible to use the application as a guide with approximately 84% accuracy. Its accessibility enhances its potential as a free resource for researchers, students, and nature enthusiasts.

A key challenge for the paper industry in adopting nanocellulose materials is finding the right balance between production costs and the benefits for specific paper grades, given the industry’s variety of products and processes. This study developed the first model to evaluate changes in steam consumption and other process parameters on a paper machine when incorporating lignin-containing micro- and nano-fibrillated cellulose (LMNFC) as a dry-strength additive, as well as its economic effects. Significant operational differences were observed in steam consumption, dissolved solids in the sewer stream, and production rates when implementing LMNFC in different scenarios. Using the assumption that reductions in basis weight frees up enough drying capacity to offset the additional drying requirements of LMNFC, this led to a 15% reduction in manufacturing costs while maintaining paper strength. A capital payback period of five years was estimated for LMNFC production, with a minimum selling price of $243 per ton. It is important to evaluate both process dynamics and dual cost metrics (cost per ton and cost per area), when analyzing the impact of LMNFC on linerboard production. While LMNFC increases the cost per ton, the lower cost per MSF underscores its material efficiency and economic benefits, particularly for lightweight grades.

Hemp fiber, as a renewable bio-based material, holds significant potential in the textile and paper industries. To unlock this potential, a critical step involves purification of the fibers. However, conventional degumming methods suffer from high energy consumption, severe fiber damage, and environmental pollution. This study evaluated a proposed one-step alkaline-hydrogen peroxide degumming process under mild conditions to achieve high-value utilization of hemp crops. Orthogonal experiments were conducted to optimize reaction conditions, including temperature, time, and liquid-to-solid ratio. Results showed that under optimal conditions (80°C, 4 h, 10:1 liquid-to-solid ratio), the residual gum content was 7.68% and fiber crystallinity increased by 8.33%. Additionally, the proportion of short fibers increased while coarse fibers decreased, yielding paper with a tensile index of 190 N/m and a whiteness of 70.3%. This low-temperature degumming process effectively removed gums while minimizing fiber damage, offering an eco-friendly and industrially viable solution for hemp fiber applications.

This study examined parental and children’s perceived value preferences regarding wooden toy materials to facilitate more efficient toy selection while evaluating whether fast-growing Paulownia wood can serve as a valuable alternative to high-consumption timber species to promote green toy adoption. The research employed three common wood types used in toys, furniture, and construction – ash, beech, and Paulownia – to fabricate experimental toy prototypes. Through on-site observations and questionnaires, parental preferences were documented across five dimensions: surface characteristics, price, usage cycle, environmental friendliness, and suitability. Results were analyzed using fuzzy theory for data recording, SPSS 27 for descriptive statistics, and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process for solution validation. Findings indicate that while Paulownia showed slightly weaker advantages in surface characteristics and modest benefits in usage cycle and suitability, it demonstrated significant advantages in price competitiveness and environmental performance, suggesting substantial potential for wider adoption.

Exposure to airborne dust and noise during woodworking operations pose serious occupational health risks. This study investigated the influence of key cutting parameters—rotational speed, feed rate, tooth count, and dust collection system status—on PM10 concentration and noise levels during circular sawing. Experimental measurements were conducted on six materials, including solid wood species (Scots pine, Oriental beech) and engineered wood products (plywood, medium-density fiberboard, oriented strand board, and particleboard). The collected data were analyzed using response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize cutting conditions, aiming to minimize emissions while maintaining operational efficiency. The results indicated that both material type and processing parameters notably affected dust and noise levels. Optimized cutting settings led to a measurable reduction in exposure, offering practical guidelines for improving workplace safety in the woodworking and furniture industries. This study contributes to the development of safer and more sustainable machining practices by addressing the hidden risks associated with dust and noise pollution.