Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the nanostructured surface modifications and solar energy conversion efficiency in perovskite photovoltaic cells in Japan. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The reviewed studies revealed that nanostructured surface modifications significantly enhance solar energy conversion efficiency in perovskite photovoltaic cells by improving light absorption, charge carrier transport, and interfacial stability while reducing charge recombination losses. Surface passivation, interface engineering, nanostructured coatings, and additive treatments were identified as important approaches for improving power conversion efficiency and device durability. However, challenges relating to long-term stability, scalability, and performance under real-world environmental conditions remain. The findings highlight the potential of nanostructured surface modifications to advance the development of efficient and durable perovskite solar cells in Japan. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Shockley–queisser detailed balance theory, surface plasmon resonance theory, Shockley–read–hall recombination theory may be used to anchor future studies on the nanostructured surface modifications and solar energy conversion efficiency in perovskite photovoltaic cells in Japan. The study recommends that photovoltaic researchers, manufacturers, and renewable energy technology developers in Japan adopt evidence-based surface engineering strategies that improve conversion efficiency while maintaining operational stability and manufacturing feasibility. Policymakers should consider establishing targeted research funding programmes that encourage experimental comparisons of different surface modification techniques, particularly those demonstrating improvements in photovoltaic conversion efficiency, long-term stability, and manufacturing scalability.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the atmospheric aerosol concentrations and solar radiation attenuation in urban environments in Germany. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings revealed that atmospheric aerosols reduce solar radiation in German urban environments through scattering and absorption, with an average radiative effect of −12.8 ± 5 W/m². Aerosol characteristics and meteorological conditions influence attenuation, highlighting the need for further comparative research across German cities. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Mie scattering theory, the beer–lambert law, radiative transfer theory may be used to anchor future studies on the atmospheric aerosol concentrations and solar radiation attenuation in urban environments in Germany. The study recommends that environmental monitoring agencies, urban planners, solar energy developers, and meteorological institutions in Germany strengthen the monitoring and assessment of atmospheric aerosol concentrations to improve the prediction and management of solar radiation attenuation. The study recommends that the German government strengthen the integration of atmospheric aerosol monitoring, air quality regulation, and renewable energy planning within national and municipal environmental policies.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the biochar-based composite materials and thermal energy storage performance in sustainable building systems in South Africa. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: Biochar-based composite materials improve thermal energy storage capacity, thermal conductivity, stability, and temperature regulation in sustainable buildings. However, their performance varies with material composition, highlighting the need for further research under South African climatic conditions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Fourier's law of heat conduction, latent heat storage theory, thermodynamic theory may be used to anchor future studies on the biochar-based composite materials and thermal energy storage performance in sustainable building systems in South Africa. The study recommends that building material manufacturers, construction professionals, architects, and renewable energy practitioners investigate the practical integration of biochar-based composite materials into sustainable building components such as wall panels, ceiling boards, roofing systems, and thermal insulation materials. The study recommends that relevant South African government institutions, building regulatory authorities, and energy-sector stakeholders consider supporting research, standardisation, and pilot-scale demonstration of biochar-based composite materials for sustainable construction.
Purpose: To investigate the distribution of rare earth elements (REEs) in granites from selected locations within Nasarawa State, North-Central Nigeria, in order to evaluate their geochemical characteristics and assess their mineralization potential. Methodology: Fourteen (14) granite samples were systematically collected and analyzed using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) at the Centre for Energy Research and Training, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. Trace element concentrations and REE patterns were examined, and geochemical discrimination diagrams were employed to determine tectonic settings and source characteristics. Findings: The trace element data show elevated concentrations of U (6.79 ppm), Co (64.81 ppm), Rb (266.89 ppm), Sb (2.04 ppm), Cs (43.83 ppm), and Ta (219.90 ppm) relative to Upper Continental Crust values, indicating moderate to extreme enrichment. REE patterns are dominated by light rare earth elements (LREE; average 58.44 ppm) over heavy rare earth elements (HREE; average 18.22 ppm). Geochemical discrimination diagrams indicate that the granites were emplaced in multiple tectonic settings, including syn-collisional, volcanic arc, and within-plate environments, and were primarily derived from the upper continental crust. Comparative analysis shows general depletion of most REEs, except for dysprosium (Dy), which exhibits elevated concentrations, suggesting potential Dy mineralization. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study provides baseline geochemical data for REE distribution in granites of Nasarawa State and contributes to the understanding of crustal evolution and tectonic settings in the region. It highlights the potential for dysprosium mineralization, offering practical insights for targeted REE exploration and resource development. The findings can inform mineral exploration strategies, guide investment decisions, and support policy formulation aimed at sustainable exploitation of REE resources in Nigeria.
Several researchers have concentrated on the triplet operation in algebraic structures in recent years. The primary purpose of this article is to represent a characterisation of fuzzy ideal and anti-fuzzy ideal in regular Γ-ternary semigroups by using some preliminary concepts and basic results of Γ-ternary semigroups.
