Volume 20 Issue 4

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a widely recognized method for converting organic waste into biogas, offering a sustainable solution for both waste management and renewable energy generation. This review critically examines recent advancements in mathematical modeling and machine learning (ML) approaches applied to biogas production from AD processes. The study categorizes the models into daily and cumulative biogas production models, kinetic models, and hybrid AI-based predictive techniques. Special attention is given to the comparative evaluation of first-order kinetics, modified Gompertz, and Chen-Hashimoto models, highlighting their applicability and limitations. Furthermore, the integration of artificial neural networks (ANNs) and other ML algorithms is discussed in the context of optimizing biogas yield, understanding system dynamics, and reducing operational uncertainties. Research gaps are identified, including the need for more robust hybrid models, real-time monitoring systems, and studies under diverse feedstock and environmental conditions. The review emphasizes that combining traditional modeling with intelligent systems offers a powerful approach to enhancing AD performance and scaling sustainable energy solutions.

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a promising technology for renewable energy and environmental remediation. The performance of MFCs is greatly influenced by the binder materials used on the electrodes, which must have good conductivity, stability, and compatibility with microorganisms. Synthetic binders, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyuretane (PU), geopolymer binder, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), are commonly used due to their electrochemical properties but are expensive and not environmentally friendly. In contrast, natural binders, such as chitosan, sucrose, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and vegetable oils, provide cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives. This review synthesizes findings from various studies, comparing the electrochemical properties, stability, and sustainability of chemical and natural binders. The review identifies key research gaps and suggests future directions to improve the performance of natural binders in MFCs, making them more viable for large-scale applications in terms of cost and environmental impact. Natural binders have the potential to be a sustainable alternative in MFC electrode development.

Biomass energy is the largest source of renewable energy, accounting for approximately 55% of global renewable energy consumption. Therefore, it holds great importance for the efficient utilization of biomass. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) has been demonstrated to convert biomass into liquid biofuels, with physicochemical properties comparable to conventional crude oil. Because moisture content is a key factor in choosing the best conversion method, HTL is especially well-suited for fresh biomass, which usually contains a substantial amount of moisture. This comprehensive review examines the research progress in biomass hydrothermal liquefaction, focusing on biomass types, liquefaction parameters, reactor configurations, and catalyst types, with particular emphasis on a comparative analysis of catalytic mechanisms. This study provides a structured framework for selecting optimal conversion processes by linking biomass types, parameters, reactors, and catalysts. Future research should prioritize the development of cost-efficient bifunctional catalysts and optimization of continuous reaction systems with respect to heat and mass transfer efficiency, and integration design of catalysts, while also aiming to minimize byproduct handling costs.

The quantity and quality of oilseed production in rapeseed mustard are severely affected by biotic and abiotic stresses. Among these, the biotrophic fungus Erysiphe cruciferarum causes powdery mildew (PM) infection in Indian mustard cultivars, potentially reducing yield by up to 50% across affected regions in India. Considering recent developments in molecular plant pathology and their impact on sustainable management of challenging plant pathogens, this article reviews the current scenario for resistance and its mechanism to E. cruciferarum in Brassica cultivars. It also covers the complex molecular signaling pathways for resistance that are regulated by phytohormones along with differential gene expression, and effectors proteins in Brassica spp. The recent advancements in genomics have contributed to identification of resistance/susceptibility genes as well as quantitative trait loci (QTLs) involved in PM resistance. Furthermore, this review unfolds a comprehensive understanding of the genetic as well as genomic basis of resistance that can provide the valuable insights for breeding programs focused on developing PM-resistant rapeseed-mustard varieties. This review aims to provide the background on recent discoveries and future strategies on identification of resistance genes, aiding in the development of more resilient rapeseed-mustard crops and leading to significant improvements in crop protection and yield stability.

This review of the literature features the fundamentals of papermaking and its history. First, writing substrates other than paper, as well as similar to paper, are discussed. Then, issues related to the invention of the technology of paper and paperboard production as we know it today are presented. Subsequently, facts related to the key achievements in pulp and paper technology that enabled the mass production of these products are described. Finally, examples of papers and processed products (not only papermaking) that significantly expanded the scope of production of pulp and paper industry – also greatly improving people’s daily lives – are provided. The article concludes by highlighting the long historical journey toward obtaining a writing substrate with optimal properties ¾ namely, paper. It is proposed to divide the period of diversification of the applications of pulps, paper, and paperboards into 1^st generation diversification and 2^nd generation diversification, the latter corresponding to the contemporary times, i.e. the period in which due to the reduction in the production of writing and printing papers, the paper industry is intensively looking for new applications for papermaking pulps, papers, and cardboards.