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Papers by Dr I. M. Rizwanul Fattah

Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Energy and Environment, Mar 17, 2022

With the ever‐increasing danger of climate change, power plants are shifting from polluting fossi... more With the ever‐increasing danger of climate change, power plants are shifting from polluting fossil fuels to sustainable bioenergy fuels. As Malaysia continues to pledge to decrease glasshouse gas (GHG) emissions, quick and dramatic action should resolve the reliance on fossil fuel power plants. Furthermore, the coal‐fired power station is Malaysia's biggest supplier of energy and the final power plant to be decommissioned. In Malaysia, a significant portion of palm oil biomass has the potential to replace coal in the generation of renewable energy power. However, the deployment of palm oil biomass as a renewable energy source has not been fully achieved. Furthermore, the surplus of unutilized biomass from the palm oil milling process has emerged as the key talking point leading to environmental concerns. As estimated, this palm oil biomass can generate approximately 5000 MW of electricity under 40% of operation efficiency. This significant power potential has the ability to replace Malaysia's yearly reliance on coal. Nonetheless, the limitations of technological stability, budgetary constraints, and other government policy concerns have prevented the potentials from being fulfilled. This necessitates an integrated framework that synergizes the decarbonization drive in order to realize the primary advantages of energy renewability and carbon neutrality. Among the suggested actions to decarbonize the power generating sector is an integrated scheme of palm oil production, biogas plant for electricity and steam generation, and biofuel pellet manufacture. This review provides an in‐depth overview of palm oil biomass for Malaysian power production decarbonization.This article is categorized under: Sustainable Energy > Bioenergy Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and Decarbonization Sustainable Development > Emerging Economies

Energy Conversion and Management, Feb 1, 2021

Fuel Processing Technology, Dec 1, 2021

Abstract The increasing energy demand and diminishing fossil fuel sources have called for the exp... more Abstract The increasing energy demand and diminishing fossil fuel sources have called for the exploration of new energy sources. To satisfy growing global energy demand and accomplish sustainable energy development goals, biomass plays an essential role in present and future energy. Pyrolysis holds considerable potential approaches among biomass conversion technologies. This study presents a critical review of the effect of the key pyrolysis parameters from lignocellulosic biomass to product distribution. The lignocellulosic biomass composition and pyrolysis conversion behavior of every single component was discussed in detail. On top of that, CO2-based benefits, economic assessment, and technical orientation for biofuel production from biomass are included. The carbon and hydrogen content of biomass is critical for producing high-quality bio-oil. When compared to other energy crops and agricultural residues, pyrolysis of clean wood and polar demonstrated the best bio-oil production. The increased cellulose and hemicellulose content aiding in the synthesis of bio-oil, but the high concentration of lignin results in more biochar. The article delves into product upgrading via several routes such as physical, chemical, and catalytic. From the review, considering factors such as pyrolysis technologies, energy demand, and bio-oil yields, greenhouse potential benefits needs to be evaluated, and this needs to be done on an individual basis. In terms of production cost, the current cost of biomass feedstock can range between 50to50 to 50to97/ton, which is approximately 30−54% of the liquid fuel production cost. A wide range of studies covering different aspects of biomass pyrolysis technology, from reactor configuration and the heating source to single and poly-step pyrolysis processes, have been carried out in the search for solutions in optimizing the current technologies. Thus, expanding and improving awareness of the lignocellulosic biomass in the pyrolysis technology would play an important role in producing sustainable and renewable carbon-neutral fuels.

Environment, Development and Sustainability, Aug 19, 2022

Nanomaterials, Jun 27, 2023

CRC Press eBooks, Aug 6, 2021

Fuel, 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the physical properties and applications of natur... more This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the physical properties and applications of natural gas (NG) and hydrogen as fuels in internal combustion (IC) engines. The paper also meticulously examines the use of both NG and hydrogen as a fuel in vehicles, their production, physical characteristics, and combustion properties. It reviews the current experimental studies in the literature and investigates the results of using both fuels. It further covers the challenges associated with injectors, needle valves, lubrication, spark plugs, and safety requirements for both fuels. Finally, the challenges related to the storage, production, and safety of both fuels are also discussed. The literature review reveals that NG in spark ignition (SI) engines has a clear and direct positive impact on fuel economy and certain emissions, notably reducing CO 2 and non-methane hydrocarbons. However, its effect on other emissions, such as unburnt hydrocarbons (UHC), nitrogen oxides (NO x), and carbon monoxide (CO), is less clear. NG, which is primarily methane, has a lower carbon-to-hydrogen ratio than diesel fuel, resulting in lower CO 2 emissions per unit of energy released. In contrast, hydrogen is particularly well-suited for use in gasoline engines due to its high self-ignition temperature. While increasing the hydrogen content of NG engines reduces torque and power output, higher hydrogen input results in reduced fuel consumption and the mitigation of toxic exhaust emissions. Due to its high ignition temperature, hydrogen is not inherently suitable for direct use in diesel engines, necessitating the exploration of alternative methods for hydrogen introduction into the cylinder. The literature review suggests that hydrogen in diesel engines has shown a reduction in specific exhaust emissions and fuel consumption and an increase in NO x emissions. Overall, the paper provides a valuable and informative overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with using hydrogen and NG as fuels in IC engines. It highlights the need for further research and development to address the remaining challenges, such as the development of more efficient combustion chambers and the reduction of NO x emissions.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews , 2024

Hydrogen energy has garnered substantial support from industry, government, and the public, posit... more Hydrogen energy has garnered substantial support from industry, government, and the public, positioning it as a pivotal future fuel source. However, its commercial realisation faces significant hurdles, including slow infrastructure growth and the high cost of producing clean hydrogen. This review uniquely emphasises the different colour codes of hydrogen, which have been rarely discussed in the literature to date. Hydrogen production methods are classified by colour codes, with green hydrogen, produced from renewable sources such as wind and solar, being the most desirable option. The demand for green hydrogen across various sectors is expected to surge. This review comprehensively evaluates the major hydrogen production methods based on cost, environmental impact, and technological maturity. Recent data confirm the increased efficiency, costcompetitiveness, and scalability of green hydrogen production technologies. The cost of green hydrogen has declined significantly, making it competitive with blue hydrogen (produced from fossil fuels with carbon capture). The review also scrutinises several recent hydrogen production technologies, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and technological readiness. Among these, the solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) currently outperforms others, with anion exchange membrane (AEM) and electrified steam methane reforming (ESMR) also showing promise. This review also succinctly summarises global progress in hydrogen infrastructure and policies. By spotlighting the diverse colour codes of hydrogen and discussing the crucial takeaways and implications for the future, this review offers a comprehensive overview of the hydrogen energy landscape. This unique focus enriches the literature and enhances our understanding of hydrogen as a promising energy source.

Journal of Molecular Structure, 2024

Minimizing energy losses and ensuring smooth motion between engine components is the critical rol... more Minimizing energy losses and ensuring smooth motion between engine components is the critical role of lubricants. Extensive research over the past decade has explored various lubricant types and additives. Ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their exceptional tribological performance, which is attributed to their unique physiochemical properties. This review delves into the potential of ILs as both lubricants and additives, focusing on their structure-activity relationship in the quest for identifying green lubricants. Compared to neat base oils, ILs significantly reduce friction and wear. This review explores the role of ILs in water-based lubricants (WBLs) and analyzes the impact of tribo-testing conditions based on different tribometers. A recent trend involves the use of ILs and nanoparticles (NPs) as hybrid lubricant additives. The review examines the synergistic behaviour of these hybrid additives in different base oils and proposes a lubrication mechanism for phosphonium ILs based on tribo-film formation induced by tribo-chemical reactions during the rubbing process. The lubrication mechanism of hybrid nano-lubricants is also comprehensively reviewed to explain why combining NPs and ILs results in such remarkable reductions in friction and wear. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the promising potential of ILs in lubrication, highlighting their advantages, diverse applications, and underlying mechanisms.

Biofuels, 2023

This review explores the potential of green fuels, derived from biological sources, as a viable r... more This review explores the potential of green fuels, derived from biological sources, as a viable replacement for conventional fossil fuels. Green fuels offer significant environmental benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air and water quality, and decreased carbon output. Extensive research and development efforts are underway to enhance their efficiency and performance. The review critically assesses the feasibility of adopting green fuels as a key driver for environmental sustainability and economic growth. It examines the use of green fuels, highlights their advantages over fossil fuels, and delves into the global landscape of green fuel production. Additionally, it explores the challenges hindering their worldwide integration and commercialization. Based on a synthesis of existing literature, the review reveals a clear upward trend in global green fuel production over the past two decades. The primary types of green fuels, including biodiesel, biogas, bioethanol, and bio-butanol, offer promising economic opportunities for rural communities, reduced reliance on finite fossil fuels, and diverse economic benefits. The development and utilization of sustainable green fuels are crucial for mitigating environmental degradation and fostering a sustainable economy. The review emphasizes the need for collaboration between government, academia, and industry to accelerate research and development efforts in this crucial area.

Energy & Fuels, Jul 9, 2018

Results in Engineering, 2023

Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is a statistical method to design experiments and optimize the... more Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is a statistical method to design experiments and optimize the effect of process variables. RSM is based on the principles of design of experiments or DOE. Design of experiments or DOE is a field of applied statistics that plans, conducts, analyses, and interprets controlled tests to assess factors that affect parameter values. Response surface methodology or RSM uses a statistical method for designing experiments and optimization. Despite the potential of response surface methodology to predict and optimize engine performance and emissions characteristics, a comprehensive review on RSM for biofuels, particularly for internal combustion engines (ICEs), is difficult to find. The review of response surface methodology is sometimes included together with other machine learning approaches such as ANN. Therefore, a review article that is exclusively written to address the specific of RSM for biofuel and ICE is required. This review article offers a fresh perspective on the application of RSM for biofuel in ICE. This article aims to critically review the RSM to optimize engine performance and emissions using biofuel. The study concludes with several possible research gaps for future works of RSM biofuel application. Although response surface methodology or RSM has drawbacks such as extrapolation inaccuracy outside the investigational ranges and discrete variables error, RSM has numerous advantages to design, model, estimate, and optimize biofuel for ICE with satisfactory accuracy. With its prediction and optimization capability, response surface methodology has the potential to assist the development of ICE optimization powered by biofuel for sustainability energy transition.

Industrial Crops and Products, 2023

Furfural is a versatile chemical building block derived from hemicellulose-rich lignocellulosic b... more Furfural is a versatile chemical building block derived from hemicellulose-rich lignocellulosic biomass. Considering the availability of various process routes and conditions, it is crucial to determine the most environmentally sustainable production routes and conditions for furfural production. This study evaluates the life cycle environmental impacts of furfural production in a poplar wood-based biorefinery, considering varying mannitol concentrations (0–15% w/w) and catalyst types (FeCl3, FeCl2, CuCl2, AlCl3, and MgCl2). An attributional cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) framework is adopted, with a functional unit of 1 kg of furfural production. The environmental impacts of furfural production are evaluated using the IMPACT World+ method at both midpoint and endpoint levels. Based on the findings, the furfural production process utilizing an AlCl3 catalyst and a 5% w/w concentration of mannitol exhibits superior environmental performance compared to all the other conditions evaluated. Compared to the mannitol-free process, this condition can reduce up to 30.80% of all the environmental impacts of furfural production. By substituting FeCl2, FeCl3, CuCl2, and MgCl2 with AlCl3, significant savings of 64.77%, 45.06%, 78.77%, and 79.30%, respectively, in all the environmental burdens of furfural production can be achieved. The results highlight that choosing an appropriate catalyst can greatly decrease the environmental impact of furfural production. Furthermore, the use of fossil-based electricity is a significant contributor to the environmental impacts of the process. Thus, an eco-friendly approach to producing furfural involves altering the means of electricity generation.

Biofuels, 2023

The present study aimed to synthesize a Y-nanozeolite catalyst using the hydrothermal method and ... more The present study aimed to synthesize a Y-nanozeolite catalyst using the hydrothermal method and Iraqi sand-derived silica as a low-cost and readily available raw material. The catalyst was tested before and after loading with potassium hydroxide (KOH). The experiments were conducted in a batch reactor under different temperatures (40, 50, and 60 °C) and a 3-h reaction time, using the prepared Y-catalyst with three different particle sizes (75, 600, and 1000 μm). The results showed that increasing the temperature and/or reaction time generally resulted in increased conversion and yield when the catalyst was unpromoted with KOH, reaching a range of 55.56% and 33.33%, respectively. However, a significant increase in the conversion and yield was observed after promoting the catalyst with 10% KOH molecules. The optimal conditions for achieving the highest conversion and yield of biodiesel were determined to be 86.67% and 82.22%, respectively. These conditions involved a temperature of 60 °C, a reaction time of 2 h, and the use of a catalyst with a particle size of 75 μm loaded with 10% KOH. The use of a heterogeneous catalyst loaded with the base in a low percentage helps to dispense with the use of homogeneous catalysts with a high percentage of bases.

Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Energy and Environment, Mar 17, 2022

With the ever‐increasing danger of climate change, power plants are shifting from polluting fossi... more With the ever‐increasing danger of climate change, power plants are shifting from polluting fossil fuels to sustainable bioenergy fuels. As Malaysia continues to pledge to decrease glasshouse gas (GHG) emissions, quick and dramatic action should resolve the reliance on fossil fuel power plants. Furthermore, the coal‐fired power station is Malaysia's biggest supplier of energy and the final power plant to be decommissioned. In Malaysia, a significant portion of palm oil biomass has the potential to replace coal in the generation of renewable energy power. However, the deployment of palm oil biomass as a renewable energy source has not been fully achieved. Furthermore, the surplus of unutilized biomass from the palm oil milling process has emerged as the key talking point leading to environmental concerns. As estimated, this palm oil biomass can generate approximately 5000 MW of electricity under 40% of operation efficiency. This significant power potential has the ability to replace Malaysia's yearly reliance on coal. Nonetheless, the limitations of technological stability, budgetary constraints, and other government policy concerns have prevented the potentials from being fulfilled. This necessitates an integrated framework that synergizes the decarbonization drive in order to realize the primary advantages of energy renewability and carbon neutrality. Among the suggested actions to decarbonize the power generating sector is an integrated scheme of palm oil production, biogas plant for electricity and steam generation, and biofuel pellet manufacture. This review provides an in‐depth overview of palm oil biomass for Malaysian power production decarbonization.This article is categorized under: Sustainable Energy > Bioenergy Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and Decarbonization Sustainable Development > Emerging Economies

Energy Conversion and Management, Feb 1, 2021

Fuel Processing Technology, Dec 1, 2021

Abstract The increasing energy demand and diminishing fossil fuel sources have called for the exp... more Abstract The increasing energy demand and diminishing fossil fuel sources have called for the exploration of new energy sources. To satisfy growing global energy demand and accomplish sustainable energy development goals, biomass plays an essential role in present and future energy. Pyrolysis holds considerable potential approaches among biomass conversion technologies. This study presents a critical review of the effect of the key pyrolysis parameters from lignocellulosic biomass to product distribution. The lignocellulosic biomass composition and pyrolysis conversion behavior of every single component was discussed in detail. On top of that, CO2-based benefits, economic assessment, and technical orientation for biofuel production from biomass are included. The carbon and hydrogen content of biomass is critical for producing high-quality bio-oil. When compared to other energy crops and agricultural residues, pyrolysis of clean wood and polar demonstrated the best bio-oil production. The increased cellulose and hemicellulose content aiding in the synthesis of bio-oil, but the high concentration of lignin results in more biochar. The article delves into product upgrading via several routes such as physical, chemical, and catalytic. From the review, considering factors such as pyrolysis technologies, energy demand, and bio-oil yields, greenhouse potential benefits needs to be evaluated, and this needs to be done on an individual basis. In terms of production cost, the current cost of biomass feedstock can range between 50to50 to 50to97/ton, which is approximately 30−54% of the liquid fuel production cost. A wide range of studies covering different aspects of biomass pyrolysis technology, from reactor configuration and the heating source to single and poly-step pyrolysis processes, have been carried out in the search for solutions in optimizing the current technologies. Thus, expanding and improving awareness of the lignocellulosic biomass in the pyrolysis technology would play an important role in producing sustainable and renewable carbon-neutral fuels.

Environment, Development and Sustainability, Aug 19, 2022

Nanomaterials, Jun 27, 2023

CRC Press eBooks, Aug 6, 2021

Fuel, 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the physical properties and applications of natur... more This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the physical properties and applications of natural gas (NG) and hydrogen as fuels in internal combustion (IC) engines. The paper also meticulously examines the use of both NG and hydrogen as a fuel in vehicles, their production, physical characteristics, and combustion properties. It reviews the current experimental studies in the literature and investigates the results of using both fuels. It further covers the challenges associated with injectors, needle valves, lubrication, spark plugs, and safety requirements for both fuels. Finally, the challenges related to the storage, production, and safety of both fuels are also discussed. The literature review reveals that NG in spark ignition (SI) engines has a clear and direct positive impact on fuel economy and certain emissions, notably reducing CO 2 and non-methane hydrocarbons. However, its effect on other emissions, such as unburnt hydrocarbons (UHC), nitrogen oxides (NO x), and carbon monoxide (CO), is less clear. NG, which is primarily methane, has a lower carbon-to-hydrogen ratio than diesel fuel, resulting in lower CO 2 emissions per unit of energy released. In contrast, hydrogen is particularly well-suited for use in gasoline engines due to its high self-ignition temperature. While increasing the hydrogen content of NG engines reduces torque and power output, higher hydrogen input results in reduced fuel consumption and the mitigation of toxic exhaust emissions. Due to its high ignition temperature, hydrogen is not inherently suitable for direct use in diesel engines, necessitating the exploration of alternative methods for hydrogen introduction into the cylinder. The literature review suggests that hydrogen in diesel engines has shown a reduction in specific exhaust emissions and fuel consumption and an increase in NO x emissions. Overall, the paper provides a valuable and informative overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with using hydrogen and NG as fuels in IC engines. It highlights the need for further research and development to address the remaining challenges, such as the development of more efficient combustion chambers and the reduction of NO x emissions.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews , 2024

Hydrogen energy has garnered substantial support from industry, government, and the public, posit... more Hydrogen energy has garnered substantial support from industry, government, and the public, positioning it as a pivotal future fuel source. However, its commercial realisation faces significant hurdles, including slow infrastructure growth and the high cost of producing clean hydrogen. This review uniquely emphasises the different colour codes of hydrogen, which have been rarely discussed in the literature to date. Hydrogen production methods are classified by colour codes, with green hydrogen, produced from renewable sources such as wind and solar, being the most desirable option. The demand for green hydrogen across various sectors is expected to surge. This review comprehensively evaluates the major hydrogen production methods based on cost, environmental impact, and technological maturity. Recent data confirm the increased efficiency, costcompetitiveness, and scalability of green hydrogen production technologies. The cost of green hydrogen has declined significantly, making it competitive with blue hydrogen (produced from fossil fuels with carbon capture). The review also scrutinises several recent hydrogen production technologies, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and technological readiness. Among these, the solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) currently outperforms others, with anion exchange membrane (AEM) and electrified steam methane reforming (ESMR) also showing promise. This review also succinctly summarises global progress in hydrogen infrastructure and policies. By spotlighting the diverse colour codes of hydrogen and discussing the crucial takeaways and implications for the future, this review offers a comprehensive overview of the hydrogen energy landscape. This unique focus enriches the literature and enhances our understanding of hydrogen as a promising energy source.

Journal of Molecular Structure, 2024

Minimizing energy losses and ensuring smooth motion between engine components is the critical rol... more Minimizing energy losses and ensuring smooth motion between engine components is the critical role of lubricants. Extensive research over the past decade has explored various lubricant types and additives. Ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their exceptional tribological performance, which is attributed to their unique physiochemical properties. This review delves into the potential of ILs as both lubricants and additives, focusing on their structure-activity relationship in the quest for identifying green lubricants. Compared to neat base oils, ILs significantly reduce friction and wear. This review explores the role of ILs in water-based lubricants (WBLs) and analyzes the impact of tribo-testing conditions based on different tribometers. A recent trend involves the use of ILs and nanoparticles (NPs) as hybrid lubricant additives. The review examines the synergistic behaviour of these hybrid additives in different base oils and proposes a lubrication mechanism for phosphonium ILs based on tribo-film formation induced by tribo-chemical reactions during the rubbing process. The lubrication mechanism of hybrid nano-lubricants is also comprehensively reviewed to explain why combining NPs and ILs results in such remarkable reductions in friction and wear. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the promising potential of ILs in lubrication, highlighting their advantages, diverse applications, and underlying mechanisms.

Biofuels, 2023

This review explores the potential of green fuels, derived from biological sources, as a viable r... more This review explores the potential of green fuels, derived from biological sources, as a viable replacement for conventional fossil fuels. Green fuels offer significant environmental benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air and water quality, and decreased carbon output. Extensive research and development efforts are underway to enhance their efficiency and performance. The review critically assesses the feasibility of adopting green fuels as a key driver for environmental sustainability and economic growth. It examines the use of green fuels, highlights their advantages over fossil fuels, and delves into the global landscape of green fuel production. Additionally, it explores the challenges hindering their worldwide integration and commercialization. Based on a synthesis of existing literature, the review reveals a clear upward trend in global green fuel production over the past two decades. The primary types of green fuels, including biodiesel, biogas, bioethanol, and bio-butanol, offer promising economic opportunities for rural communities, reduced reliance on finite fossil fuels, and diverse economic benefits. The development and utilization of sustainable green fuels are crucial for mitigating environmental degradation and fostering a sustainable economy. The review emphasizes the need for collaboration between government, academia, and industry to accelerate research and development efforts in this crucial area.

Energy & Fuels, Jul 9, 2018

Results in Engineering, 2023

Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is a statistical method to design experiments and optimize the... more Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is a statistical method to design experiments and optimize the effect of process variables. RSM is based on the principles of design of experiments or DOE. Design of experiments or DOE is a field of applied statistics that plans, conducts, analyses, and interprets controlled tests to assess factors that affect parameter values. Response surface methodology or RSM uses a statistical method for designing experiments and optimization. Despite the potential of response surface methodology to predict and optimize engine performance and emissions characteristics, a comprehensive review on RSM for biofuels, particularly for internal combustion engines (ICEs), is difficult to find. The review of response surface methodology is sometimes included together with other machine learning approaches such as ANN. Therefore, a review article that is exclusively written to address the specific of RSM for biofuel and ICE is required. This review article offers a fresh perspective on the application of RSM for biofuel in ICE. This article aims to critically review the RSM to optimize engine performance and emissions using biofuel. The study concludes with several possible research gaps for future works of RSM biofuel application. Although response surface methodology or RSM has drawbacks such as extrapolation inaccuracy outside the investigational ranges and discrete variables error, RSM has numerous advantages to design, model, estimate, and optimize biofuel for ICE with satisfactory accuracy. With its prediction and optimization capability, response surface methodology has the potential to assist the development of ICE optimization powered by biofuel for sustainability energy transition.

Industrial Crops and Products, 2023

Furfural is a versatile chemical building block derived from hemicellulose-rich lignocellulosic b... more Furfural is a versatile chemical building block derived from hemicellulose-rich lignocellulosic biomass. Considering the availability of various process routes and conditions, it is crucial to determine the most environmentally sustainable production routes and conditions for furfural production. This study evaluates the life cycle environmental impacts of furfural production in a poplar wood-based biorefinery, considering varying mannitol concentrations (0–15% w/w) and catalyst types (FeCl3, FeCl2, CuCl2, AlCl3, and MgCl2). An attributional cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) framework is adopted, with a functional unit of 1 kg of furfural production. The environmental impacts of furfural production are evaluated using the IMPACT World+ method at both midpoint and endpoint levels. Based on the findings, the furfural production process utilizing an AlCl3 catalyst and a 5% w/w concentration of mannitol exhibits superior environmental performance compared to all the other conditions evaluated. Compared to the mannitol-free process, this condition can reduce up to 30.80% of all the environmental impacts of furfural production. By substituting FeCl2, FeCl3, CuCl2, and MgCl2 with AlCl3, significant savings of 64.77%, 45.06%, 78.77%, and 79.30%, respectively, in all the environmental burdens of furfural production can be achieved. The results highlight that choosing an appropriate catalyst can greatly decrease the environmental impact of furfural production. Furthermore, the use of fossil-based electricity is a significant contributor to the environmental impacts of the process. Thus, an eco-friendly approach to producing furfural involves altering the means of electricity generation.

Biofuels, 2023

The present study aimed to synthesize a Y-nanozeolite catalyst using the hydrothermal method and ... more The present study aimed to synthesize a Y-nanozeolite catalyst using the hydrothermal method and Iraqi sand-derived silica as a low-cost and readily available raw material. The catalyst was tested before and after loading with potassium hydroxide (KOH). The experiments were conducted in a batch reactor under different temperatures (40, 50, and 60 °C) and a 3-h reaction time, using the prepared Y-catalyst with three different particle sizes (75, 600, and 1000 μm). The results showed that increasing the temperature and/or reaction time generally resulted in increased conversion and yield when the catalyst was unpromoted with KOH, reaching a range of 55.56% and 33.33%, respectively. However, a significant increase in the conversion and yield was observed after promoting the catalyst with 10% KOH molecules. The optimal conditions for achieving the highest conversion and yield of biodiesel were determined to be 86.67% and 82.22%, respectively. These conditions involved a temperature of 60 °C, a reaction time of 2 h, and the use of a catalyst with a particle size of 75 μm loaded with 10% KOH. The use of a heterogeneous catalyst loaded with the base in a low percentage helps to dispense with the use of homogeneous catalysts with a high percentage of bases.

Environmental Science and Pollution Research , 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic not only has caused a global health crisis but also has significant environ... more The COVID-19 pandemic not only has caused a global health crisis but also has significant environmental consequences. Although many studies are confirming the short-term improvements in air quality in several countries across the world, the long-term negative consequences outweigh all the claimed positive impacts. As a result, this review highlights the positive and the long-term negative environmental effects of the COVID-19 pandemic by evaluating the scientific literature. Remarkable reduction in the levels of CO (3 − 65%), NO 2 (17 − 83%), NO x (24 − 47%), PM 2.5 (22 − 78%), PM 10 (23 − 80%), and VOCs (25 − 57%) was observed during the lockdown across the world. However, according to this review, the pandemic put enormous strain on the present waste collection and treatment system, resulting in ineffective waste management practices, damaging the environment. The extensive usage of face masks increased the release of microplastics/nanoplastics (183 to 1247 particles piece −1) and organic pollutants in land and water bodies. Furthermore, the significant usages of anti-bacterial hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and pharmaceuticals have increased the accumulation of various toxic emerging contaminants (e.g., triclocarban, triclosan, bisphenol-A, hydroxychloroquine) in the treated sludge/biosolids and discharged wastewater effluent, posing great threats to the ecosystems. This review also suggests strategies to create long-term environmental advantages. Thermochemical conversions of solid wastes including medical wastes and for treated wastewater sludge/biosolids offer several advantages through recovering the resources and energy and stabilizing/destructing the toxins/contaminants and microplastics in the precursors.

Catalysts, 2021

Triglycerides are the main constituents of lipids, which are the fatty acids of glycerol. Natural... more Triglycerides are the main constituents of lipids, which are the fatty acids of glycerol. Natural organic triglycerides (viz. virgin vegetable oils, recycled cooking oils, and animal fats) are the main sources for biodiesel production. Biodiesel (mono alkyl esters) is the most attractive alternative fuel to diesel, with numerous environmental advantages over petroleum-based fuel. The most practicable method for converting triglycerides to biodiesel with viscosities comparable to diesel fuel is transesterification. Previous research has proven that biodiesel–diesel blends can operate the compression ignition engine without the need for significant modifications. However, the commercialization of biodiesel is still limited due to the high cost of production. In this sense, the transesterification route is a crucial factor in determining the total cost of biodiesel production. Homogenous base-catalyzed transesterification, industrially, is the conventional method to produce biodiesel. However, this method suffers from limitations both environmentally and economically. Although there are review articles on transesterification, most of them focus on a specific type of transesterification process and hence do not provide a comprehensive picture. This paper reviews the latest progress in research on all facets of transesterification technology from reports published by highly-rated scientific journals in the last two decades. The review focuses on the suggested modifications to the conventional method and the most promising innovative technologies. The potentiality of each technology to produce biodiesel from low-quality feedstock is also discussed.

Sustainable Production and Consumption, 2021

COVID-19 has heightened human suffering, undermined the economy, turned the lives of billions of ... more COVID-19 has heightened human suffering, undermined the economy, turned the lives of billions of people around the globe upside down, and significantly affected the health, economic, environmental and social domains. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the ecological domain, the energy sector, society and the economy and investigate the global preventive measures taken to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. This analysis unpacks the key responses to COVID-19, the efficacy of current initiatives, and summarises the lessons learnt as an update on the information available to authorities, business and industry. This review found that a 72-hour delay in the collection and disposal of waste from infected households and quarantine facilities is crucial to controlling the spread of the virus. Broad sector by sector plans for socio-economic growth as well as a robust entrepreneurship-friendly economy is needed for the business to be sustainable at the peak of the pandemic. The socio-economic crisis has reshaped investment in energy and affected the energy sector significantly with most investment activity facing disruption due to mobility restrictions. Delays in energy projects are expected to create uncertainty in the years ahead. This report will benefit governments, leaders, energy firms and customers in addressing a pandemic-like situation in the future.