This study presents an analysis of suspended sediment concentration and granulometric distribution along the Sulina branch of the Danube River, based on data collected using the AQUASCAT 1000S acoustic backscatter system. Measurements were conducted at six monitoring stations near or between the localities of Sulina, Gorgova, Crisan, Maliuc, Partizani, and an intermediate station between Sulina and Crisan. The AQUASCAT 1000S was employed to gather high-resolution acoustic data using its four frequency channels, ranging from kilohertz to megahertz, allowing for simultaneous observation of both fine and coarse sediment fractions. Data processing involved comparative analyses using different combinations of acoustic channels to evaluate their effectiveness in characterizing sediment concentration and size distribution across diverse hydrological and morphological conditions along the branch. Results reveal spatial variability in suspended sediment characteristics, influenced by local hydrodynamics and proximity to tributaries, human settlements, and natural channels. The study highlights the advantages and limitations of multi-frequency acoustic techniques in riverine sediment monitoring and contributes to the development of improved methodologies for sediment characterization in deltaic environments.
This study aimed to analyze the concentrations of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in pontic shad (Alosa immaculata) and assess the influence of factors such as capture year, length, and weight on these concentrations. Fish samples were collected during the 2023 and 2024 fishing seasons. After recording the length and weight of each specimen, the muscle underwent acidic digestion. The concentrations of Fe, Cu, and Zn were then determined using a Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometer. The results revealed an overall increase in chemical elements concentrations from 2023 to 2024. While Cu levels showed no correlation with length or weight, Fe and Zn exhibited strong correlations with these parameters.
Climate change in recent decades has had a significant impact on Romanian agriculture. In this context, Tulcea County, located in the south-eastern part of the country, has experienced a trend of increasing average annual temperatures, an increase in the number of days with temperatures above 30 degrees C and a decrease in total annual precipitation. The study analyzed meteorological data, the evolution of crop structure, cultivated area, and yield trends over a 20-year period (1994-2023). The results showed an increase in average annual temperature from 12.39 degrees C in 1994 to 13.8 degrees C in 2023. Precipitation was low and showed significant variability, ranging from 215.8 mm in 2022 to 732 mm in 1997, with uneven distribution during the crop growing season. The area planted with cereals for grain varied considerably, influenced by both the predicted climatic conditions and the extent of irrigated land. Statistical analysis was performed using the Python software package, applying Pearson correlation tests to examine the relationship between climatic variables and agricultural yields. Linear regression methods were also used to identify long-term trends. The statistical tests showed that both increasing temperatures and decreasing precipitation were correlated with declining maize and wheat yields, highlighting the vulnerability of agriculture to climate change. Maize production ranged from a minimum of 323 kg/ha in 2003 to a maximum of 8,820 kg/ha in 2018. The overall trend indicates a slight decrease in average production (R-2 = 0.41, p < 0.05), correlated with increasing temperatures. Wheat showed a more stable yield, reaching a maximum of 4,738 kg/ha in 2021. The production trend was positive in periods with moderate rainfall (R-2 = 0.63, p < 0.01).
In these papers, the bioclimatic index de Martonne was used to assess the hydrothermal conditions in some agricultural areas in Southern Romania and Northern Bulgaria during the period 1961-2020. The conditions from October to June were analyzed in view of the cultivation of winter cereals, as well as those from April to October, marking the time for growing spring crops. Additionally, indices were selected during some critical periods for both types of crops. The evaluation of the indices with the Mann-Kendall test and the Sen slope shows a significant (0.01) negative trend or an increase in the degree of unfavorability for growing winter crops in the Danube Plain. The indices during the period for growing rain fed spring crops 1961-2020 also show a negative, but insignificant trend.
The study presents the data on the contamination of Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, and Pb in the samples of skin, muscles, and liver of freshwater bream (Abramis brama (Linnaeus, 1758)), as well as in water and sediments samples ecological indices have been determined. New data for the bioindicator significance of freshwater bream for the accumulation of trace elements in skin, muscles, and liver has been reported. Basic correlation dependencies have been indicated. Discussions on the use of freshwater bream as a food resource have been attached. The risk of pollution to human health and the environment has been assessed.
This study assesses the groundwater quality at the CET HIDROCARBURI ARAD site using a Global Pollution Index (I-CF(& lowast;)) methodology that integrates multiple water quality indicators concerning legal thresholds. Water samples from three monitoring wells were collected annually over 11 years (2010-2020) and analyzed for pH, total suspended solids, fixed residue at 105 degrees C, and chemical oxygen demand. The findings reveal that 93.94% of the samples exceeded acceptable limits based on 2008 regulatory references, with pollution levels surpassing ecological thresholds, particularly in Control Well No. 3, indicating persistent ecological stress. Despite this, long-term trends suggest overall groundwater stability, with 78.79% of historical data (2008-2017) falling within permissible ranges. Statistical analysis highlighted variations in pH and COD, suggesting localized impacts from nearby facilities such as a reagent store. The study recommends implementing a sustainable, site-specific water management plan supported by real-time monitoring and targeted assessments of emerging contaminants to enhance environmental protection and risk mitigation.
This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of obtaining energy from waste biomass. The potential of waste biomass from aromatic plants, left after the production of essential oils, was assessed. The calorific value, ash content, volatile compounds, and moisture content were determined. Elemental analysis of the waste biomass was conducted to measure the C, H, N, and S contents. The results indicate that residual waste has significant potential as a quality feedstock for solid biofuel production. Compared to coal, the calculated emission factors demonstrate a reduction in CO and CO2 emissions by up to 30%, NOx by up to 80%, SO2 by up to 99%, and dust by up to 67%, depending on the waste used. When selecting suitable waste for energy production, it's essential to balance calorific value and emission factors. If energy efficiency is the priority, lavender, tansy, and thyme waste may be preferred. However, for sustainability and lower environmental impact, common sage waste could be the better choice. It's important to consider the specific context, including regulations and energy needs, when making a final decision.
The study presents the first data on the accumulation circulation of Al, Ba and Cd in the samples of skin, muscles and liver of the European perch (Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758), its dominant parasite species Eustrongylides excises J & auml;gerski & ouml;ld, 1909 larvae, water and sediments from the freshwater ecosystem of the anthropogenically affected protected towards the studied elements has been studied. The bioindicator significance of P. fluviatilis and E. Excises for assessing the pollution of the freshwater ecosystem with Al, Ba, and Cd has been revealed. The risk to human health and living organisms has been evaluated. Measures for the protection of the ecosystem have been indicated.
Due to the requirements to reduce energy consumption, the thermal rehabilitation of existing buildings has gained momentum in recent years, both in Romania and at the European level (Petcu et. al., 2023). The most accessible and used technical solution for the thermal rehabilitation of residential buildings, is represented by the external cladding systems with polystyrene thermal insulation. For this type of buildings thermal insulation system, the most unfavourable and most common external actions are represented by compartment fires. The researchers of the Fires Research Laboratory within the INCERC Bucharest Branch, have carried out a series of experimental studies on a natural scale, in order to develop a method of testing ETICS systems for fires generated from fire compartments. Through these studies and experimental research, conclusive results were obtained regarding the development of compartment fires, the evolution of temperatures inside the combustion chamber and the propagation offire on the combustible facades of buildings.
The numerical modelling of the cylindrical shafts can be done using finite element method in axisymmetric or threedimensional conditions. For this study, the 3D finite element method has been used to analysed the cylindrical shaft's behaviour regarding the earth pressure distribution, the vertical displacements of the soil and the horizontal displacements ofthe diaphragm wall. Thus, a parametric study has been carried out in which the cylindrical shafts radius, the length of the diaphragm wall and the excavation depth have been varied. For all the numerical models, the cohesive and cohesionless soil has been used. The results show the influence of all these parameters on the retaining walls' behaviour. Also, the influence of the soil type is explained.
Asbestos water supply networks are not believed to represent a significant hazard to public health in normal use. However, repair, rehabilitation and removal of asbestos pipes involve cutting, and demolition, can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing risks to public health. Many water utilities currently have significant portions of their water mains composed of asbestos pipes that need to be rehabilitated. This paper focuses on the evaluation of four different alternatives to rehabilitate/remove of asbestos pipes, considering the impact on the environment, respectively the total air emissions generated by the activities involved in this rehabilitation. A very performant model, EMEP/EEA air pollutant emission inventory guidebook 2023, was used for this assessment. Results indicate that the replacement of asbestos-cement pipes with no-dig, pipe-bursting technology, which involves laying the new pipe on the inside of the existing pipe, which is broken but remains underground, will have the lowest environmental impact.
Since the dawn of industrialization, technological advancements have progressed rapidly, outpacing the planet`s natural resources` ability to sustain them. In the face ofglobal warming, habitat destruction the imperative to invest in sustainable development practices has become increasingly evident. Clay-based construction materials are gaining traction at the national level, with their benefits recognized for the technical advantages and their contribution to the long-term durability of construction elements. The issue of vegetable waste is a large-scale, multifaceted challenge that continues to grow in urgency alongside rising consumption. Integrating vegetable waste into clay compositions exemplifies how traditional materials can be innovatively adapted to meet contemporary challenges. By combining ancient building techniques with modern knowledge and technology, clay composites can pave the way for a greener construction industry. This sustainable solution not only addresses pressing environmental concerns but also fosters a circular economy where waste becomes a resource. Through such practices, the construction industry can evolve into a model of resilience and sustainability for other sectors to follow.
This study assesses the ecological state of the surface water of the Mechka River from the Maritsa River Basin using the biological quality element macrozoobenthos. Four sampling sites (biotopes) were investigated in autumn 2024 along the Mechka River-1) near the village of Lenovo; 2) near the village of Poroyna; 3) between the town of Parvomay and the village of Poroyna and 4) before the town of Parvomay. A total of 772 specimens of macrozoobenthos from 36 taxa were identified. The highest number of macroinvertebrate taxa was identified in the second biotope (21 taxa) and the lowest-in the first (14 taxa). The study shows that in three of the four biotopes, macroinvertebrates of Group C (relatively tolerant forms) dominate, whereas in Biotope 3) Mechka River between the town of Parvomay and the village of Poroyna, Group D (tolerant forms) dominates. Basic indices and metrics were calculated according to an established methodology.
The work describes assessments and public policies that would account for safety increase and duration in the exploitation of structures. The level at which the soil-structure interaction is approached in actual normative/codes is highlighted. Proposals for approaching different ways to rise the protection level of structures to be in seismic zones were examined, starting from their location and design; this implies the knowledge of the site seismicity, earthquakes-related parameters prediction, the importance of (extended) geotechnical studies, etc. The interaction wave-structure is studied by using the model of harmonic oscillator coupled to an elastic medium. This analysis is meant to be relevant for the effects of seismic motion upon localized structure. Also, the model of an elastic structural element embedded at one end is envisaged and the normal modes and the eigenfrequencies of this independent module are highlighted. The response to oscillating shocks is computed for various ground excitations applied to its base. The response of two coupled modules, viewed as simplified structures thereby harmonic oscillators as well, to an oscillating shock is calculated, and amplification factors are highlighted.
Starting from the statement "A good cadastre of the parcels will be the complement of my civil code," the fundamental importance of the cadastre in the management of land and real estate properties becomes evident. It provides a detailed and up-to-date record of land parcels, including their owners, describing the boundaries and characteristics of each property. Through this, the cadastre facilitates the implementation and adherence to legal norms regarding property rights and their transfer. In the context of societal development and evolution, a well-maintained cadastre becomes an essential tool for urban planning, natural resource management, and infrastructure project implementation. Furthermore, a modern cadastre system can help prevent legal disputes related to property and serve as a crucial instrument in urbanization and economic development processes. An efficient cadastre is not only a technical necessity but also a fundamental element for the functioning of a coherent legal system and for responsible real estate management, contributing to the establishment and maintenance of a cohesive societal structure.
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing CO2 from industrial processes or power generation and securely storing it in geological formations. B & abreve;ile L & abreve;z & abreve;resti serves as a promising natural laboratory for studying the environmental effects ofpotential CO(2 )leakage from an anthropogenic CO2 storage site and for testing monitoring solutions. One effective method for environmental monitoring of CO2 geological storage involves soil flux and soil gas surveys, which can identify potential CO2 leakage points by determining the natural variability of CO2 flux. Since 2019, several soil flux surveys have been conducted at B & abreve;ile L & abreve;z & abreve;resti across different seasons, combined with soil-gas measurements. By analyzing seasonal CO2 variation along with geological knowledge, we have determined the natural variability of post-volcanic emissions and important for monitoring CO2 geological storage sites, aiding in the identification and understanding ofpotential leakage in the near-surface environment.
Coniferous stands are relatively vulnerable to the impact of extreme weather events, often being affected by windfalls, because the spruce species (Picea abies L.) has a trailing root system. As a result, high-intensity winds cause windfalls on compact surfaces and the breaking of tree crowns and trunks. Windfalls in spruce stands also affect the forest soil, on considerable surfaces. The case study was carried out in spruce stands in the Horea Apuseni Forest District, Alba County, which were affected by windfalls and breakages. The objectives of the case study refer to the impact of the extreme weather events of 2011-2017 on spruce stands, forest soil and implicitly on the management of the affected forest unit. The wood affected by these extreme phenomena was valued at a price specific to the assortments and quality of accidental wood products, registering considerable financial losses. Also, a microrelief specific to wind fellings was formed, with a extremely negative impact on the ecological rehabilitation process of the affected spruce stands. The regeneration process of these stands was carried out over a relatively long period, 10-12 years, with very large financial efforts
Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a technology and methodology designed to assess the condition of structural systems by evaluating potential damage that may occur after an earthquake. Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools provide storage and visualization capabilities for digitally representing a building, incorporating raw data such as photographs, measurements, point clouds, and damage information. This paper presents a framework aimed at enhancing traditional databases. It integrates data collected from various sensors installed within a structure, employing post-processing techniques like finite element analysis to evaluate the health of both structural and nonstructural elements. Additionally, the soil conditions are taken into account during these assessments. The collected information is then incorporated into a BIM environment featuring an improved interface that enhances connectivity between the two system architectures. This integration utilizes standardized file formats as defined by ISO standards. Developing scientific and experimental databases for building structures is an emerging trend in global research and a key component of the Romanian National Strategy for Seismic Risk Reduction. Digital building information models facilitate real-time updates and improve coordination among intervention teams following significant earthquakes.
This study assesses the ecological state of the Borovitsa River, a tributary of the Arda River sub-basin, and the Maritsa River basin using a methodology approved for the European Union and Bulgaria. For the purpose of the study, in the spring of 2024, macroinvertebrates samples were collected from the Borovitsa River near the village of Nenkovo (in the section between Borovitsa Reservoir and Kardzhali Reservoir, according to Bulgarian river typology, this section is classified as R]4:"Sub-Mediterranean small and medium-sized rivers" according to the typology of rivers in Bulgaria. The collected macrozoobenthos were taxonomically identified. Fourteen taxa were identified, based on which key ecological metrics were calculated-EPT taxa, Margalefspecies richness index (Dmg), Shannon-Weaver species diversity index (H)', Pielou's evenness index (E), Simpson's dominance index (C) and biotic index (BI). The findings provide valuable insights into the biodiversity and ecological status of the Borovitsa River, contributing to regional water quality assessments and conservation efforts.
Monitoring landfill stability is critical in mining operations to prevent failures that could have significant environmental and safety implications. Site characterization is a comprehensive approach to monitoring landfill stability in order to conduct detailed geological assessments to understand the composition, structure, and physical properties of the tailing material, to perform laboratory tests to assess the engineering properties, all these correlated with geodetic repeated measurements. Techniques and instruments used in geodetic monitoring are chosen depending on the type of surveyed displacement and level of accuracy required. Photogrammetric and remote sensing technologies play an essential role in the detection and monitoring displacements and deformations, providing crucial support in the rapid and effective management of these emergencies. These techniques allow for large-scale, continuous monitoring of slope movements without requiring direct contact with the slope. This way, it ensures precise deformation monitoring, validates theoretical models, enhances predictive capabilities, and supports safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection efforts. A well-designed monitoring system not only ensures compliance with environmental regulations but also provides valuable insights for designing effective mitigation and rehabilitation strategies.
