Introduction/Objective The petrochemical industry plays a pivotal role in the global economy but continues to face significant challenges, including fluctuating oil prices, tightening environmental regulations, and high capital investment requirements. Hence, reliable techno-economic models are essential when companies approach Final Investment Decisions (FID), which determine the success of large-scale projects. Method This study introduces a structured framework that prioritises and ranks the parameters that are most critical to such models. The approach combines the Objective Weighting Method (OWM) with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) by using propylene oxide production as a case study. Results The analysis discloses that the total revenue is the highest-priority parameter (P i = 0.5280), followed by raw material cost (0.4576), utilities cost (0.2316), investment cost (0.2209), and fixed cost (0.1905). Discussion By identifying the most influential parameters, this approach enables decision-makers to allocate resources more effectively, improve cost efficiency, and reduce uncertainty. When combined with sensitivity analysis, it empowers companies to assess the impact of changing conditions, thus strengthening risk management and increasing the likelihood of project success in an uncertain and highly competitive sector. Conclusion The Structured Entropy-TOPSIS framework is a strong, evidence-based tool that identifies the key factors in petrochemical investment decisions. The findings decrease decision-making uncertainty while increasing the chances of the project being successful, as management attention is directed towards the economic variables with high impact.
IntroductionThis research paper explores the potential of heavy metals removal from foundry effluents using graphene oxide (GO) and magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) as adsorbents. MethodsThe preparation of graphene oxide (GO) was performed by the modified Hummers method, while that of magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) was done through coprecipitation methods, with analysis confirming its usefulness in removing metal ions. The influence of contact time, adsorbent dosage, and temperature on the heavy metal removal efficiency was subsequently investigated. The GO and MGO were further characterized using Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analyses. ResultsThe observed results pointed to GO demonstrating comparatively better removal efficiencies than MGO for Cr, Fe, Pb, Cd, and Zn: 95.40%, 94.00%, 95.80%, 94.2%, and 95.7%, respectively, compared to 88.70%, 87.4%, 90.2%, 90.7%, and 91.2%. Successful synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) and magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) was confirmed by using characterization techniques such as SEM, BET, and FTIR. The morphology and high surface area of GO with a flake-like structure were observed, whereas successful modification of iron nanoparticles onto MGO was observed with a high specific surface area of 1165.220 m2/g and an abundance of surface functional groups. DiscussionThe heavy metals, which originate from foundry wastes, are removed from the wastewater by using the method of magnetic graphene oxide in this study. Various characterization methods, including SEM, BET, and FTIR, are studied. The parameters affecting the removal of heavy metals are the contact time, adsorbent dosage, and temperature. Contact time increases the opportunity to interact between the adsorbent and metal ions with a longer duration, whereas the number of active sites available to adsorb the heavy metal increases since the adsorbent dosage is higher, thereby increasing the efficiency of removal. ConclusionThe adsorption could be described in the manner of the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetics, which depicts MGO's successful removal of heavy metals from foundry wastewater.
IntroductionThe ineffective management of MSW, where open dumping and uncontrolled burning characterize the Lagos Megacity, poses severe environmental and public health challenges while contributing to GHG emissions by a wide margin. MethodologyThe project identified the carbon credit value of the solid waste industry of Lagos through the estimation of the greenhouse gas emissions for each of the seven scenarios of solid waste management. The IPCC 2006 recommendations, with 2019 modifications for open dumping, managed landfilling, composting, anaerobic digestion, incineration, open burning, and recycling of solid waste, were used to estimate the emissions. ResultsThe outcome suggests the potential for the acquisition of about 631 million CERs as a result of the transition to sustainable approaches in waste management, which, at the price of 2024, is valued at USD 1.9 billion. In contrast, the baseline situation is projected to result in significant emissions, as open dumping and open burning result in emissions of 98,463 Gg CO2 equivalent and 59,741 Gg CO2 equivalent, respectively. Conversely, composting and recycling were responsible for lower emissions, while landfills with gas recovery indicated the largest potential CERs. DiscussionConclusively, the results emphasize the economic as well as environmental advantages of moving away from the harmful trend towards sustainable alternatives, making it clear that carbon trading can offer a real economic incentive for bettering practices pertaining to waste management, as well as aiding in climate change mitigation in a rapidly urbanizing environment. ConclusionThis particular research further identifies the economic potential of carbon trading with regard to waste management and climate preservation.
IntroductionLamiaceae is the name of a family of aromatic plants, which are traditionally used as herbal medicine. There are not many research articles found in the literature regarding the biological study of nanoforms of the Lamiaceaefamily. However in recent years, there were few studies exhibiting the biological properties of plants from the same family. The stem and leaves of three plants from Lamiaceae family of Plectranthus genus, namely Coleus amboinicus Lour, Coleus rotundifolius Lour, and Coleus zeylanicus Lour were subjected to extraction using various solvents with different polarity index. Among the extracts, the ethyl acetate portions were subjected to various pharmacological studies. Through this study, evaluate the antibacterial activities of extracted compounds and their nano forms. MethodsSingle compounds were obtained in each extract, which were characterized by UV, IR, and NMR and LC-MS techniques. Nanoporous materials of the same type were prepared by solvothermal and sonication methods. The obtained nanoporous materials were then impregnated on chitosan and their pharmacological evaluation was carried out. ResultsAll compounds isolated from the plants show a minimum assay of antibacterial properties in their nanoforms. A better performance was obtained for Coleus zeylanicus Lour. DiscussionSelected compounds from plectranthus amboinicus, plectranthus rotundifolius and plectranthus zeylanicus were converted to their nanoforms. These nanoforms were studied by antibacterial analysis. Some of these nanoforms combined with chitosan and their antibacterial activity were studied. Extracted compound from plectranthus zeylanicus using ethyl acetate extract were selected for this study. Bioavailability, chemical potential, nutritive contents and efficiency are the implications of these Compounds. Sustainability, specificity, reproducibility, and solubility of prepared compounds are the limitations of this study. ConclusionChitosan impregnated Coleus zeylanicus Lour had high antibacterial potential against E.coli. growth.
Introduction/ObjectiveWhen a liquid distribution system, particularly hydraulic distribution systems, composed of several sections, experiences a leak, limited prior knowledge is available regarding which section is leaking. Longer sections have a higher likelihood of leaking, whereas larger fractures tend to occur in sections with greater diameter and higher pressure. This study proposes a procedure to update this information based on a gross observation of the leak size. The goal is to support strategic planning of leak detection by accounting for the time required to inspect each section. MethodsThe procedure employs a Decision Analysis approach to the problem, utilizing simulation and a basic hydraulic model. The available information is classified into “a priori” (available before the leak appears) and “a posteriori” (a Bayesian update of the a priori information after observing the flow rate at the end of the system). The data is used in decision trees that select the inspection sequence, minimizing the expected value of the total volume of lost fluid. ResultsA three-section hydraulic distribution system is analyzed numerically in a case study. When based on a priori information, the recommended review sequences begin with longer and higher-pressure sections. In contrast, when based on updated information, high-pressure sections are reviewed first if the leak is believed to be significant, while low-pressure ones are favored when the leak appears to be minor. Generally, the procedure recommends reviewing first the sections that can be checked swiftly. DiscussionAs the results are consistent with expectations for the system behavior, the procedure successfully leverages the available information and observations. As the presented approach uses a basic hydraulic model, it can be readily used by engineers without extensive computational resources. ConclusionA Decision Analytic perspective can be used to leverage available knowledge and modelling tools, whether the former is scarce or the latter basic, to improve leak detection in a multi-section hydraulic system, accounting for the time required to review each section.
Introduction The study aims to develop an effective method for selective reduction of iron from high-phosphorus oolitic ore, enabling the subsequent separation of low-phosphorus metallic iron and high-phosphorus slag. The approach involves fluxing the ore with calcium oxide (CaO) to stabilize phosphorus and facilitate its removal. Methods The oolitic iron ore was fluxed with CaO to achieve a basicity of 2.0, then subjected to oxidative roasting at 1200 °C in a Nabertherm muffle furnace to convert iron phosphates into stable calcium phosphates. Solid-phase reduction was performed in a laboratory Tamman furnace at 1000 °C under a CO atmosphere. Final smelting was conducted at 1600 °C in a vertical Nabertherm furnace to achieve liquid-phase separation of metal and slag. X-ray diffraction and micro-X-ray spectral analysis were used for phase characterization. Results CO selectively reduced iron to metallic form in both fluxed and non-fluxed samples, while phosphorus remained in the oxide phase. In fluxed samples, phosphorus was primarily present as calcium and aluminum phosphates, and iron was fully metallized. In non-fluxed samples, partial iron reduction occurred with residual phosphorus in iron, calcium, and aluminum phosphates. Upon smelting, non-fluxed ore formed a single melt with 0.1 wt.% phosphorus, whereas fluxed samples yielded separate metal and slag phases, with 0.3 wt.% phosphorus retained in the slag. Discussion The results confirm that fluxing promotes the formation of stable calcium phosphates, preventing phosphorus reduction and enabling efficient Fe–P separation. The selective reduction of iron by CO was kinetically controlled and did not reduce phosphorus compounds. Compared to non-fluxed treatment, fluxing significantly improves the separation of phosphorus into slag during smelting. Conclusion This study demonstrates a two-stage process for effective dephosphorization of high-phosphorus oolitic iron ores. Key contributions include the identification of phosphorus stabilization mechanisms via CaO fluxing, successful selective reduction of iron by CO, and development of a method for producing low-phosphorous metal and high-phosphorous slag. The approach offers a promising route for processing refractory iron ores.
Introduction This study investigated the stability and radioiodine (I −) sorption properties of AgCl-modified bentonite sorbents under conditions simulating engineered safety barriers (concrete-bentonite contact) in a deep geological radioactive waste disposal facility (GDF). Methods Synthetic groundwater from the «Yeniseisky» site was filtered through Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) and High Alumina Concrete (HAC) samples. Filtrate pH/Eh were measured, and chemical composition was analyzed via ICP-MS. AgCl-bentonite sorbents were synthesized using two methods (AgCl HMTA and AgCl HYD). Stability was assessed by monitoring Ag dissolution in filtrates using Volhard’s method. Iodide sorption was evaluated using natural and modified bentonite. Results PCC filtrate showed higher pH (12.43) and lower Eh (−74 mV) than HAC filtrate (pH 11.10, Eh +6 mV). PCC contained elevated Ca2+, while HAC contained trace phosphorus. No Ag dissolution occurred from sorbents in filtrates, confirming stability. AgCl-bentonite exhibited significantly higher I − sorption (Kd = 373±87 – 1070±230 mL·g−1) than natural bentonite (K d = 64±28 mL·g −1), with rapid equilibrium (1 hour). Discussion The results demonstrate that AgCl-modified bentonite retains high stability and exceptional I −sorption capacity even in alkaline, concrete-impacted environments relevant to GDFs. The absence of Ag dissolution underscores its suitability for long-term containment. However, phosphorus in HAC filtrates may pose a risk of Ag3 PO 4 formation, warranting further study. Conclusion AgCl-modified bentonite is a promising engineered barrier material for radioiodine isolation in GDFs, particularly at the Yeniseisky site. Its efficacy persists in concrete-contact scenarios, though phosphorus interactions require additional investigation.
Introduction Industrial point sources emit a wide spectrum of air pollutants, posing significant threats to environmental quality and public health. Previous studies often focused on single pollutants or limited source types, reducing generalizability. This study addresses this gap by characterizing multiple pollutants gaseous emissions, particulate matter, and heavy metals across diverse industrial point sources and modelling their dispersion to assess spatial impacts on air quality. Methods Emissions were assessed from industrial facilities, including boilers, furnaces, kilns, and generators. Gaseous pollutants (HC, NOₓ, CO, VOC) were measured using an E8500 combustion analyzer, particulate matter (PM) was collected on quartz fiber filters with a high-volume air sampler and quantified gravimetrically, while heavy metals (Pb, As, Cd, Co, Zn) were analyzed via X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Dispersion modelling was conducted using AERMOD under five operational scenarios and ten pollutants. Results Dispersion modelling revealed notable heterogeneity in pollutant concentrations across scenarios. In Scenario 1 (boiler-only operation), predicted ground-level concentrations of Pb (147.292 μg/m³), As (30.476 μg/m³), and Cd (30.474 μg/m³) were high, while NOₓ (0.010 μg/m³) and CO (0.019 μg/m³) remained low, emphasizing the source-specific nature of emissions. Discussion The disproportionately high heavy metal concentrations highlight the need for targeted control of specific industrial processes, particularly boilers. Despite the reliability of AERMOD, dependence on a single dispersion model is a limitation. Conclusion This study presents a comprehensive emission inventory and dispersion modeling framework encompassing multiple industrial sources and pollutants. The results emphasize the critical role of diverse industrial activities in air quality degradation and offer a stronger scientific foundation for designing targeted emission control and mitigation strategies.
Introduction To date, there has been no systematic study of the effect of substituting boron atoms on various types of sensory interaction. Methods In order to clarify the mechanisms of sensory interaction of boron-carbon nanotubes with respect to metal atoms and to establish the effect of modification by a nitro group on them, the results of model experiments conducted using density functional theory (DFT) were used. The mechanism of functionalization is presented in this work. The sorption and sensing interaction of the obtained nanosystems with alkali metal atoms (Li, Na, K) were evaluated to assess the efficiency of each of the nanosystems considered in this work. Results The influence of impurity boron atoms replacing the carbon atoms of the nanotube surface on the sensory properties of the CNTs was determined. Discussion The energetically favorable and preferable location of the nitro group for this process is above the surface boron atom for all boron-carbon nanotubes considered. The conductivity of such systems changes upon interaction with alkali metal atoms, which makes it possible to register their presence. Conclusion The results of the study of the mechanisms of sensor interaction between alkali metal atoms and boron-carbon nanotubes functionalized with a nitro group, containing different amounts of impurity boron atoms replacing carbon atoms of the carbon nanotube surface, allow us to conclude that the obtained systems are able to register the presence of selected metal atoms (Li, Na, K).
Introduction Lithium is currently a critically important resource for high-tech industries. However, data on the Li content in the sedimentary rocks of the Southern Urals have not been provided. The limited understanding of lithium geochemistry in the Proterozoic sedimentary rocks dictates the need for detailed geochemical studies.The objective of this study was to determine the lithium distribution in the Proterozoic sedimentary rocks on the western slope of the Southern Urals and analyze the potential causes of enrichment. Methods Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) was used to analyze sandstones, shales, and carbonate rocks. Results Two stratigraphic intervals of lithium enrichment were identified in the Proterozoic sedimentary rocks on the western slope of the Southern Urals: the Suran and Avzyan Mesoproterozoic formations. The maximum enrichment of this alkali element occurred in carbonate rocks, where Li concentrations reached 125–268 ppm, exceeding the Clarke value by 5–12 times on average. In the Avzyan Formation, lithium showed a strong positive correlation with chlorite content. In the Suran Formation, lithium was highly correlated with fluorine (r = 0.97) and rubidium (r = 0.93), indicating its association with F-bearing phlogopite. The highest lithium concentrations, reaching industrially significant levels of up to 0.1 wt.% Li2O, were confirmed within the fluorite ore halo of the Suran deposit. Cryolithionite was the dominant lithium-bearing mineral, accounting for 0.1–7 wt.% of the bulk composition. Discussion The lithium enrichment in the sedimentary rocks of the Suran and Avzyan Mesoproterozoic formations resulted from sedimentation under near-evaporitic conditions, as well as the subsequent influence of postmagmatic fluids during epigenesis caused by the intrusion of gabbrodolerite dikes. These findings are significant for both regional metallogeny and the broader pursuit of lithium resources, highlighting the substantial potential of sedimentary rocks. Conclusion The sedimentary rocks of the Suran and Avzyan formations on the western slope of the Southern Urals have the potential to host economically significant lithium concentrations. Of particular interest are the host rocks of the Suran Formation in the vicinity of the Suran fluorite deposit.
Introduction To address pressing resource and environmental challenges, this study investigates the tantalum recovery from a Ta-W semi-product generated during the processing of grinding waste from the ZhS32 VI rhenium-nickel superalloy. Methods The Ta-W semi-product was sintered with NaOH (700–1000 °C) to oxidize TaC into insoluble sodium tantalates (NaTaO 3 /Na 5 TaO 5 ), with an optimal ratio (semi-product: NaOH) and temperature determined. The sintered residue underwent acid leaching (HF/H 2 SO 4 mixture, room temperature), where leaching parameters (time, phase ratio) were optimized; the kinetics was studied, and K 2 TaF 7 was precipitated from the leachate using KCl. Results Minimum Ta extraction into solution during sodium hydroxide sinter leaching, along with complete transfer of W and Mo to the aqueous phase, is achieved at 700°C and a 1:3 (g/g) ratio. Subsequent leaching of the solid residue with an HF-H 2 SO 4 mixture (1 g: 1 mL: 1 mL) enables complete Ta recovery (>99.99%) within 30 minutes. The kinetics of tantalum acid leaching from the residue indicates a shift in the rate-limiting step from diffusion to chemical reaction. Through precipitation from the sulfate-fluoride solution using a KCl solution, Ta was obtained as K 2 TaF 7 (~52.64% Ta). Discussion The presented process allows for the selective separation of tantalum from tungsten and molybdenum. The kinetics show a transition from diffusion to reaction, which enables efficient extraction at room temperature. Controlling impurities in K 2 TaF 7 requires further refinement. Conclusion An effective two-stage hydrometallurgical process (alkaline sintering + acid leaching) enables high-yield tantalum recovery from superalloy grinding waste while facilitating valuable component recycling from heat-resistant alloy residues.
The article analyzes a large number of published materials on mineralogical and geochemical data for global and Kazakhstan phosphorite reserves, as well as methods of their processing. Early studies were continued by studying the physicochemical features of phosphate ore deposits in terms of lithology and geochemistry. It has been established that Karatau rich phosphorites are the primary marine geosynclinal sediments, deposits of phosphate minerals from natural layers of seawater. The basis for the formation of the mineralogical structure was the movement of the Earth's crust, as well as certain conditions of the seabed relief and the adjacent land. According to information sources, the features of the mineralogical structure of new phosphorite deposits involved in the production of phosphorus and phosphorus-containing compounds are summarized. Comparative information data on the production of yellow phosphorus and its compounds at the only phosphorus plant in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) are presented. Improvements in the wet and dry processing of phosphate ores have been analyzed to identify promising methods for producing phosphorus and mineral fertilizers. An analysis of existing methods for recycling phosphorus production waste, which provides a high level of environmental protection, was carried out. Considering the depletion of rich phosphorite deposits, an analysis of modern methods for enriching and processing poor phosphate ores was presented. Based on the analysis of poor phosphate ores and the physicochemical characteristics of phosphatized shales, methods for improving agglomeration using various hydrocarbon wastes as a fuel component were proposed. At the same time, considerable attention was paid to the methods of disposal and regeneration of solid and gaseous waste.
The purpose of this research is to obtain polyaromatic substances via solvolysis of Mongolian and Russian coals and their characterization as raw materials for needle coke preparation. The quinoline-soluble products were obtained via coal solvolysis at a moderate temperature of 380°C using heavy hydrocarbon fractions of coal and petroleum origin as solvents. The chemical and group composition and molecular structure of the soluble products were characterized by FTIR, GC-MS, gas and liquid phase chromatography, and TG-DTG-DSC techniques. The products obtained from the coal solvolysis were pitch-like matter soluble in quinoline up to 90-95%. The main components were represented predominantly by polycondensed aromatics, and their structures depended on the coal and solvent used. A remarkable feature of the polyaromatic products was a reduced concentration of carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene (up to 40 times compared to commercial coal-tar pitch). The product obtained with coal tar as solvent was highly aromatic, and its aromatic nuclei consisted predominantly of polycondensed sparsely substituted cycles. The product obtained with petroleum-derived solvent was less aromatic, and the aromatic units were highly alkylated with fairly long alkyl chains. The pitch-like product with the intermediate structural parameters was obtained using a binary solvent. In terms of composition and molecular structure, the pitch-like products obtained via coal solvolysis can serve as a new polyaromatic feedstock with reduced carcinogenicity for the preparation of valuable carbon materials. By selecting solvents and coals, it is possible to optimize the molecular-structural characteristics of the products in order to obtain feedstock for the production of high-tech carbon materials, including needle coke and valuable chemicals.
Introduction Hydrogen energy is a promising alternative to fossil fuels, yet its storage and transportation remain challenging due to flammability and low density. Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), such as bicyclohexane (BCH) derived from biphenyl (BP) hydrogenation, offer high hydrogen storage density and safety. This study investigates the impacts of support specific surface area (SSA) and preparation methods on the performance of Ru/SiO 2 catalysts in BP hydrogenation to BCH. Methods Ru/SiO 2 catalysts with varying SSA were prepared using the strong electrostatic adsorption (SEA) and incipient wetness impregnation (IWI) methods with [Ru(NH 3 ) 6 ]Cl 3 as the precursor and fumed SiO 2 as the support. The catalysts were characterized using ICP-AES, XRD, N 2 physisorption, H 2 -TPR, XPS, TEM, and HAADF-STEM. The catalytic performance was evaluated in a high-pressure autoclave under mild conditions (90 °C, 1.0 MPa H 2 , 80 min) with product analysis conducted using GC-MS. Results The 1.5 wt.% Ru/SiO 2 -SEA (300) catalyst exhibited the best performance, achieving 99.9% BP conversion and BCH selectivity. This catalyst featured smaller Ru nanoparticles (average size 0.91 nm) and stronger metal-support interaction compared to the IWI-prepared catalysts. As the SSA of the SiO 2 support increased, the hydrogenation performance improved. Discussion The research reveals that SiO 2 with high SSA can provide a greater number of active sites, thereby facilitating contact between reactants and the catalyst surface. This enhancement leads to improved catalytic activity and selectivity. Furthermore, the SEA method, which adjusts the solution pH, enables the uniform adsorption of metal ions onto the support surface through electrostatic interactions. This results in smaller Ru nanoparticle sizes and higher dispersion, significantly strengthening the metal-support interaction. Conclusion The study highlighted the efficiency of the SEA method in developing the high-performance Ru/SiO 2 catalyst for BP hydrogenation. Higher SSA supports, particularly those prepared via SEA, yielded smaller Ru nanoparticles and enhanced dispersion, resulting in superior catalytic activity and selectivity. These findings offered some critical insights for advancing LOHC technology and hydrogen storage applications.
This paper examines the effect of various reducing agents on the combined reduction of iron and phosphorus from high-phosphorus ferromanganese ores. These ores have a complex mineral composition, making their processing more challenging. Solid-phase reduction is a promising method for converting iron and phosphorus into metallic phases while preserving manganese oxides. Experiments were conducted using ferromanganese ore samples at 900 °C in a laboratory furnace. Solid carbon, carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen gas served as reducing agents. The phase and chemical composition of the products were analyzed using X-ray phase analysis and electron microscopy. Solid carbon and CO reduced Fe, P, and Mn to metallic phases. Hydrogen facilitated the reduction of Fe and P while maintaining manganese oxide (MnO) in the oxide form. The hydrogen reduction yielded a higher phosphorus content in the metallic phase compared to carbon or CO. X-ray phase analysis identified α-Fe, MnO, SiO2 and Mn2SiO4 phases. Hydrogen demonstrates high selectivity in reducing Fe and P over Mn. The phosphorus content in the metallic phase was higher with hydrogen compared to carbon or CO. X-ray analysis confirmed the presence of reduced iron and stable oxide phases at 900 °C. The choice of reducing agent has a significant influence on the phase composition and extraction of target components. Hydrogen gas shows the best results in combined iron and phosphorus reduction, making it a promising candidate for further research and industrial applications.
Oleogels have attracted attention as healthier alternatives to traditional solid fats. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is valued for its bioactive effects; however, integrating CLA into oleogels and ensuring their stability remains challenging. Beeswax (BW) is a widely used organogelator, yet CLA-enriched oleogels with BW have not been previously explored. This study aimed to prepare and characterize CLA-enriched oleogels using beeswax, focusing on their physical, thermal, rheological, and oxidative stability properties. CLA was chemically synthesized from linoleic acid and incorporated into sunflower oil at concentrations of 25% and 50%. BW was used as the oleogelator at 2%, 3%, and 4%. Oleogels were prepared via heating and controlled cooling. Physicochemical analyses included oil binding capacity, gel stability, color, rheology, texture, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermo-oxidative stability. Storage stability was monitored over 120 days at 25°C by measuring peroxide value (PV) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Oleogels exhibited strong oil-binding capacity and viscoelastic behavior. Increasing BW concentration enhanced structural firmness, while higher CLA content significantly improved oxidative stability but reduced thermal resistance (Tonset and Tmax). XRD analysis revealed predominantly α- and β′-type crystals originating from BW. CLA-enriched oleogels showed significantly lower PV and TBARS values during storage compared to controls, particularly in formulations with moderate CLA levels and ≥3% BW. CLA’s antioxidant properties contributed positively to oleogel oxidative stability; however, excessive CLA concentrations adversely affected thermal resistance and gel homogeneity. BW effectively structured the gels and facilitated CLA integration. The interaction between CLA and BW influenced crystal formation, firmness, and storage stability. Study limitations include the use of a single oil type and absence of sensory evaluation or thermal cooking simulations. CLA-enriched BW oleogels represent a promising alternative to traditional solid fats by combining biofunctional benefits with mechanical and oxidative stability at room temperature. Their incorporation into food systems may reduce dependence on unhealthy fats while extending shelf life. Future research should investigate sensory properties, culinary performance, and broader food applications.
Introduction This article presents research data on the processes used to produce concentrated phosphoric acid from Karatau phosphate rock. Methods The study investigated the purification of wet-process phosphoric acid using liquid-liquid extraction with organic solvents. To determine the composition of extractable complexes formed during the extraction of phosphoric acid with tributyl phosphate and n-butyl alcohol, infrared spectroscopy was employed. In addition, physicochemical transformations under thermal exposure were analyzed using differential thermal analysis. Results The effect of magnesium salts and sulfuric acid impurities on the distribution factor of phosphoric acid was investigated. Increasing the initial concentration of phosphoric acid from 5.38% to 25.61% P2O5 at 25°C led to an increase in the distribution factor from 0.178 to 0.436 for n-butyl alcohol, from 0.06 to 0.183 for isoamyl alcohol, and from 0.120 to 0.320 for tributyl phosphate. Increasing the temperature from 25°C to 60°C had little to no impact on the distribution factor. The results showed that the distribution factors of phosphoric acid are influenced by its initial concentration, particularly in the presence of sulfuric acid. Among the solvents tested, n-butanol demonstrated the highest extraction efficiency. The phosphoric acid concentration was increased to 56%–63% P2O5, with sulfuric acid impurity levels reduced to ≤ 0.002%. Discussion The results of the study demonstrate a significant contribution to the field of optimizing phosphoric acid extraction using organic solvents. One of the innovative aspects of the work is the analysis of extraction mechanisms using various solvents, including n-butanol, tributyl phosphate, and isoamyl phosphate. This contribution significantly expands the scientific understanding of extraction processes and opens up new possibilities for optimizing phosphoric acid purification technology. Conclusion For the first time, countercurrent extraction and azeotropic distillation were combined to address the issue of equipment corrosion caused by fluorine impurities. The findings of this study can be applied in developing a fundamental technological process for the deep purification of technical-grade phosphoric acid, resulting in the production of pure and highly concentrated phosphoric acid.
Background Sodium chloride is widely used in medicine, food production, and chemical manufacturing, where product purity is critical. While high-purity NaCl can be obtained through existing methods, these often incur significant costs. Therefore, it is important to develop a more practical and cost-effective purification process. This study investigates the purification of table salt through the removal of insoluble residues and impurity ions using phosphate treatment. Methods Halite ore from the Bakhyt-tany deposit was processed. The study employed infrared spectroscopy (IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and spectrometric analysis to assess purity levels and impurity removal efficiency. Results The optimal liquid-to-solid phase ratio and mixing time were identified. The stoichiometric amount of sodium phosphate required to remove calcium and magnesium ions was established, achieving up to 99% impurity removal. Discussion The phosphate method proved effective in significantly reducing bothт soluble and insoluble impurities in sodium chloride. The separation of precipitated impurities by sedimentation and subsequent spray drying of the purified solution provides a viable, cost-efficient alternative to conventional methods. Further investigation is needed to assess the scalability and environmental impact of the process. Conclusion The results enabled the development of a technological scheme for purifying sodium chloride using the phosphate method, offering high efficiency and practical applicability.
Aim The aim of this work is to show that the preliminary sizing of process equipment, which is done relying on ranges of typical values of several key parameters, can be conveniently approached as a bi-objective “basic risky decision under uncertainty” problem from Decision Analysis. Background In the early stages of chemical process design, equipment sizing is done without knowing the exact value of several key process parameters. This is the case of heat exchangers, as convective heat transfer coefficients are highly sensitive to temperature, pressure, and flow conditions, which will be known with certainty only after the equipment enters operation. Objective This work shows how heat exchanger sizing with uncertain information can be modelled as a decision-making problem under uncertainty, from a decision-analytic point of view. Method The decision model consists of a factual model that produces the probability distribution of the consequences (quality of outlet temperature control and equipment cost) for the alternatives, and a value model, which provides a quantitative metric for the consequences' desirability. Result The results are presented as a chart showing the recommended design given the decision-maker´s relative strength of preference between equipment performance and cost. Conclusion Chemical process equipment design depends on physical parameters, some of which are not precisely known at the initial project stages. In said situations, equipment sizing can be stated as a decision-making problem under uncertainty and approached using Decision Analysis, as shown in this paper for the design of heat exchangers.
