ENVIRONMENTAL/HEALTH, ENERGY AND POLICY ISSUES RELATED TO METALS, MATERIALS AND MINERAL PROCESSING

Among the rechargeable batteries, a Li-S battery is potentially of the highest possible gravimetric capacity and theoretical energy density, ranging up to a factor of five beyond conventional Li-ion batteries. Herein, we present the electrochemical properties and performance of a novel sulfur-carbon nantube fibers composite as the cathode for rechargeable polymer lithium batteries. The microstructure of the carbon nanotube fibers and the composite was characterized by TEM, SEM, XRD, and BET surface area. The electrochemical performance of the composite cathode in a polymer electrolyte was studied by galvanostatic and cyclic voltammetry methods. We have obtained very promising results based on which we discuss the electrochemical reaction mechanism of the sulfur-carbon nanotube fibers composite in combination with the polymer electrolyte and metallic lithium as the anode. The laboratory assembly process is simple, generic and broadly applicable, conceptually providing new opportunities for tailored design that can be extended to new composite electrode materials.

The air pollution belongs to the most important environmental threat to human health. Particularly sensitive are children, elderly people and patients with chronic conditions. Individual susceptibility is influenced by many factors: Age, nutrition, presence of disease, genetic determination, global health status. Children are a focus points in the health protection considering possibilities of early organs and functions impairment. Cross-sectional study of respiratory health included measurements of pulmonary function (1994 -2000). Parents questionnaires collected data about socio-economic status and reported respiratory morbidity and symptoms in children. Data were received from 8 exposed and 1 control area in eastern Slovakia, included totally 1805 filled questionnaires from parents of children 6 – 11 years old. Pulmonary functions were evaluated in 1337 children from exposed areas and 193 children from control area. Results confirmed impact of SES on the incidence of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in children and incidence of lower respiratory infection (LRI). ARI were statistically more frequent in families with lower education, local heating system, in children with respiratory allergy and in children living in higher outdoor air pollution score - AP. Lower respiratory infection were influenced by air pollution score, parents education, allergy in children and parents. ETS - environmental tobacco smoke - wasn’t confirmed as statistically important factor neither for respiratory symptoms nor for lower pulmonary function. ETS exposure might be influenced by domestic habits where indoor smoking is mostly refused by families. *Supported by grant VEGA 1/0451/09 and KEGA 260-002UPJS - 4/2010.

The air pollution belongs to the most important environmental threat to human health. Particularly sensitive are children, elderly people and patients with chronic conditions. Individual susceptibility is influenced by many factors: Age, nutrition, presence of disease, genetic determination, global health status. Children are a focus points in the health protection considering possibilities of early organs and functions impairment. Cross-sectional study of respiratory health included measurements of pulmonary function (1994 -2000). Parents questionnaires collected data about socio-economic status and reported respiratory morbidity and symptoms in children. Data were received from 8 exposed and 1 control area in eastern Slovakia, included totally 1805 filled questionnaires from parents of children 6 – 11 years old. Pulmonary functions were evaluated in 1337 children from exposed areas and 193 children from control area. Results confirmed impact of SES on the incidence of acute respiratory infection (ARI) in children and incidence of lower respiratory infection (LRI). ARI were statistically more frequent in families with lower education, local heating system, in children with respiratory allergy and in children living in higher outdoor air pollution score - AP. Lower respiratory infection were influenced by air pollution score, parents education, allergy in children and parents. ETS - environmental tobacco smoke - wasn’t confirmed as statistically important factor neither for respiratory symptoms nor for lower pulmonary function. ETS exposure might be influenced by domestic habits where indoor smoking is mostly refused by families.

The average consumption of electricity for production of one kilogram Aluminum is about 14 KWh. So, it could be say that Aluminum is the mass for saving and condensing energy. This was a reason for Iran and other Persian Gulf countries that have more oil and gas for export, to thing if they could convert their oil to Aluminum Primary as a condensed energy and then export them. By this reason the Aluminum industry strategy was to produce about 1.5 million tons primary Aluminum in Iran. In other hand Iran has had policy of subsidize economy for about 30 years. The subsidization was considered for some common using goods, especially for energy and electricity and even some capital investments. The subsidize capacity for energy was about more than 50 milliard US dollars per year in 2010. The whole of economy, Industry and even the culture were matching with this policy in Iran. Now after 30 years subsidizing situation, the policy is going to change to competitive condition by removal of subsidize policy. This makes changing the economical and also technological condition of Iranian industries. The most effect will be for Aluminum production industries, because of primary Aluminum production need the most energy. What will happen in this new stipulation by the Aluminum industries? This Article is survey the condition of Aluminum Industries, Technology and economy in Iran with the co-reaction by Persian Gulf region and world. It also investigates the role of subsidization elimination effects to the Aluminum development Strategy, and show a new road map for these Industries in this new circumstance.

Extractive industries play an important role in the economic development of a country. However, the mineral beneficiation processes cause various environmental problems, not only because the wastes from mining process, but also due to the use of large amounts of chemical reagents such as collectors, depressants, frothers, etc. To reduce environmental problems and the process costs, several studies have been carried out on the use of microorganisms as friendly reagents, with the purpose of replace (partial or total) traditional flotation reagents in mineral processing. The interactions of microorganisms with minerals can be direct or indirect. In the indirect interaction, the biological products act as surface-active agents and in the direct interaction occur microbial adhesion or attachment to particles bringing out surface modification. Both types alter the mineral hydrophobicity, indicating that the microorganisms can act as bioreagents through selective adhesion onto the mineral surface. Considering the literature about the use of microorganisms in mineral processing, this work leads to a basic study in the bioadhesion of R. Opacus on apatite, and also to the adhesion mechanism involved in the mineral-bacteria interaction. The R. Opacus strain was obtained from the cultures collection of André Tosello Foundation, SP, Brazil. It was cultivated in a liquid medium containing: Malt extract, yeast extract, peptone and glucose, at 280C. The pH of the growth medium was adjusted to 7.2 by the addition of NaOH prior to autoclaving. The sample of apatite ore used in this studied was from State of Minas Gerais/BR. All bioadhesion experiments were carried out in a duplicate run basis.

The search for alternative technologies of low operating cost for effluent treatment has directed attention to biosorption. This method employs inactive or dead biomass to remove metallic ions from aqueous solutions and the promising results has been considered by the scientific community as an alternative technology to replace traditional methods of metals removal. Recently, various biological materials, such as bacteria and agro-waste have been used for heavy metals removal from industrial effluents. Biosorption of heavy metals by biological species depend not only on the affinity between the metallic species and the binding sites on the molecular structure of the cellular wall, but also on environmental conditions of microorganism growth and biomass processing procedure. Barium is widely used in many industrial applications. This way, they are present in effluent derived from various industrial processes, such as mining and petroleum. The objective of this work was to examine the efficiency of R. Opacus, which present various carboxylic groups, as adsorbent for the removal of barium (II) from aqueous solutions, aiming at a future application for the treatment of effluents. The R. Opacus strain was obtained from the cultures collection of André Tosello Foundation, SP/Brazil. It was cultivated in a culture broth containing: Malt extract, yeast extract, peptone and glucose, at 280C. The pH of the growth medium was adjusted to 7.2 by the addition of NaOH prior to autoclaving. All biosorption experiments were carried out in a duplicate run basis. Experiments were conducted in 250 mL erlenmeyer flasks containing barium (II) synthetic solutions of known concentrations. Flasks were agitated on a shaker at a constant shaking rate of 160 rpm for 3 h to ensure that equilibrium was reached. The amount of metal adsorbed was determined at different initial and residual metal concentrations.

Background: Medical waste handlers are from time to time exposed to hazardous materials. This study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of occupational exposure on liver and kidney function tests as well as on blood pressure and haematological profile in waste handlers in a Nigerian tertiary hospital. Subjects and Methods: All fourteen men working as waste handlers with University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria were recruited for the study. Ten men without history of hospital waste handling nor any other occupational exposure to toxicants served as controls. Renal (electrolytes, urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphate, uric acid) and liver (aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, alaline transaminase, albumin, and total protein) function tests, blood pressure as well as haematological profile of these subjects were assessed using standard procedures. Data generated were assessed using SPSS 16.0.Results: Liver Function Tests; Albumin concentration is lower in waste handlers (4.61± 0.13 vs 5.36 ± 0.05, p<0.001) however no significant difference exists in the concentrations of aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, alaline transaminase, total protein. Renal Function Tests: Urea is significantly higher (30.29 ± 1.72 vs. 21.20 ± 2.35, p <0.05) while bicarbonate is lower in waste handlers (22.20 ± 0.20 vs. 21.50 ± 0.25, p <0.05) but no difference is observed in the levels of the other electrolytes, creatinine, calcium, phosphate, uric acid between the two groups. Blood Pressure; A significant difference is observed in the systolic blood pressure (127.14 ± 2.66 vs 112.00 ± 2.00, p<0.001) but not in the diastolic blood pressure of the subjects. Haematological profile; The ratio of neutrophil to lymphocyte is altered in waste handlers (35.46: 47.39) as compared to that of apparently healthy subjects (50.34: 39.26). Furthermore, packed cell volume, PCV (36.48 ± 1.37 vs. 41.48 ± 1.55) and red blood cell, RBC, count (4.35 ± 0.21 vs. 4.90 ± 0.15) are lower in waste handlers. However no significant difference exists in the total white blood cell (WBC) count, platelet (PLT) count, haemoglobin (HB) concentration, mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), neutrophil, lymphocyte, and eosinophil, basophil, and monocyte proportions in the two groups. Conclusion: Altered albumin, urea, bicarbonate, neutrophil- lymphocyte ratio, RBC count, PCV and high blood pressure are the abnormalities found in the profiles of waste handlers in this study. In this regard waste handlers in this environment need to routinely check their biochemical profile, haematological profile and blood pressure from time to time.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gases emitted today. CO2 concentration in the atmosphere has increased, because of the intensive use of fossil fuels. MIL-101 or Cr3(F, OH)-(H2O)2O[(O2C)-C6H4-(CO2)]3.nH2O (n ï‚» 25), is one of the metal organic frameworks with Lewis acid sites that can be activated by removal of guest water molecules. In this study, we synthesized metal organic framework MIL-101 and then with multi walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) incorporation. For synthesis of this composite, well dispersed MWCNTs in dimethyl formamide were mixed with a hydrofluoric acid solution of chromium nitrate nona hydrate and terephthalic acid. The MWCNT@MIL-101 obtained had the same crystal structure and morphology at those of virgin MIL-101, but carbon dioxide adsorption capacity enhanced about 40% at 298 K and 10 bar. The increment in the CO2 adsorption capacity of MWCNT@MIL-101 was attributed to the increase of micropore volume of MIL-101 by MWCNT incorporation.

This paper looks at different conditions of hydrous pyrolysis to test the degradation and or reactivity of mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PAH (anthracene, flourene and flouranthene). This is one of many approaches towards the main objective of treatment of industrial effluent from aluminium smelting where PAHs are released in the electrolytic process. Pyrolysis was performed at different durations under the following conditions: 300 oC with water / Nafion - SiO2 catalyst and 300 oC with water / Nafion-SiO2 / Pd-C catalysts respectively. Oxidised and reduced forms of the PAHs were identified.

DANIELI's clean automation technology for Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Steelmaking is meant for sustainable use of electrical and chemical energy and feed material in terms of scrap and DRI/HBI. This takes a 'five-pronged' approach. The advanced technology suite consists of EAF Scrap Optimizer, EAF Slag-building Optimizer, Off-gas Analyser, Electrode Regulator, and finally system integration and transport of DRI in EAF CONSTEEL making process. The Scrap Optimizer is meant for use of 'worst' grade scrap; This saves 'good' quality scrap and the DRI/HBI requirements for melt dilution. The Slag-building Optimizer provides optimum generation of slag for arc coverage, and minimum requirements of Dolomite to produce slag and to lower phosphorous content of steel. The Off-gas analyzer is developed to measure the chemical composition of fumes such as CO, CO2, and O2. With such on-line measurement it can optimize alternative use of chemical energy through fixed burner injection system. The reduced consumption of chemical fuel reduces the fume generation. DANIELI HiREG PLUSTM is developed to regulate the operation of electrodes in order to maximize energy utilization in the melt, and minimize electrical energy consumption in furnace operations. Finally, the integration of DRI Plant and transport of Hot DRI with scrap feeder to CONSTEEL EAF saves electrical energy consumtion in EAF. Danieli's clean technology was implemented successfully in Emirates Steel, Abu Dhabi (UAE), EZZ Steel and Suez Steel in Egypt. DANIELI's clean technology, therefore, helps optimize use of recyclable scraps, reduces consumption of high quality DRI and hence, the iron ore. At the same time, it reduces electrical and chemical energy consumption. The present paper describes DANIELI's clean automation technology solutions for electric arc furnace steelmaking in terms of improvement in electrical and chemical energy efficiency.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gases emitted today. Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) materials are crystalline materials with two or three-dimensional porous structures composed of metal center and/ or metal clusters connected by organic linker. Carbon dioxide adsorption on metal-organic framework material, chromium terephthalate (MIL-101) and MIL-101 modified with 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS), investigated in this study. At first, we synthesized these adsorbents and then were characterized by Brunauer- Emmet- Teller (BET), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis. CO2 adsorption capacity was measured by volumetric method. MIL-101 and APTS-MIL-101 exhibited CO2 adsorption capacity of 0.85and 1.3 m. Mol CO2.g-adsorbent-1, respectively, at 10 bar and 298 K. CO2 adsorption capacity enhanced about 50 % after amine modification.

Kaolinite is both a blessing and a curse. As an important industrial mineral commodity, kaolinite clays are extensively used in the paper, ceramic, and paint industries. In other situations, kaolinite is a complete nuisance, for example, during recovery of bitumen from oil sand, and during sedimentation of oil sand tailings for water recovery. It is therefore the objective of this paper to investigate selected physical and surface chemical properties of kaolinite, specifically the surface charge of kaolinite particles. Surface force measurements were conducted to interrogate the basal planes of kaolinite particles (silica tetrahedral face and alumina octahedral face). These colloidal force measurements reveal that the silica tetrahedral face of kaolinite is negatively charged at pH > 4, whereas the alumina octahedral face of kaolinite is positively charged at pH < 6, and negatively charged at pH > 8. This new information was utilized to calculate the interaction energies between the different surfaces of kaolinite particles. Results indicate that the silica face–alumina face interactions are dominant for kaolinite particle aggregation at low pH and intermediate pH of 5-5.5. This explains the maximum yield stress, settling rates and aggregation behavior at pH 5-5.5.

The legislation is bringing Kosovo closer to the developed countries, but how is it, in reality, it is very difficult to give an appropriate answer without having an interdisciplinary scientific research, that it is an aim of this research. Almost two decades most of the heavy industry installations are abandoned or has no proper protection pursuant to any of the articles of the 21 promulgated laws that are directly connected to the protection of environment. Abandoned installations or no proper used installation are near the “rivers� and very close to water plant installations that are supplying around 50% of Kosovo population, and based on findings has been identified as “Black blotches�. The results from accumulating artificial lakes Batllava and Badovc as well as from underground springs-wells in Kuzmin-Obiliq show a high presence of heavy metals and other pollutants that reaches this installations through untreated sewages. Also, the research aim based on findings and results analyzing to show existing water and soil pollution and pollutants and to recommend further steps for protecting and restoring Kosovo ecology and for an ecological heavy industry country with high healthy environment in compliance with “Ecological Legislation�.

Contamination of water bodies by heavy metals is an established problem and several studies have been conducted to deal with it. South Africa is amongst those countries whose water systems are most affected as a result of intensive mining activities. This research was dedicated to the development of insoluble chelating polymers for use as adsorbents to abstract heavy metal ions from mining and industrial wastewater. Branched polyethylenimine, well known for its metal chelating potential, was cross linked by epichlorohydrin in order to convert it into a water-insoluble form for direct use as an adsorbent. Its surface was also modified for selective removal of specifically-targeted heavy metal ions. The binding affinity of the synthesized materials to heavy metal ions has been determined as well as their ability to be regenerated for reuse. These processes demonstrated that cross-linked polyethylenimine exhibited good complexation ability with high affinity to Cr and some divalent metal ions such as Fe, Zn, Ni, being observed, whereas the phosphonated polyethylenimine showed high selectivity for As, Mn and uranyl ions and the sulfonated polyethylenimine on the other hand exhibited high affinity to Se, and Hg. The difference in selectivity of different metal ions for each polymer can be explained based on their functional groups. The chelating group in cross-linked polyethylenimine is -NH where the nitrogen atom acts as a Lewis base and donates the electrons for metal cations. This mechanism implies the poor ability of polyethylenimine to bind oxo- anions in the case of Se and As while the sulfonated polyethylenimine showed high affinity to Se, attributed to the replacement of sulfate as the functional group. The high selectivity of phosphonated polyethylenimine to uranyl ions is due to the phosphate group being a hard ligand (hard base) and U is a hard metal (hard acid). The adsorption behavior of these polymeric materials involved more than one mechanism such as complexation, normal surface charge exchange, and anion replacement. So far, the developed materials showed promising results and good potential to be applied successfully for remediation of heavy metal-polluted waters.

The average consumption of electricity for production of one kilogram Aluminum is about 14 KWh. So the method of aluminum production is one of effective parameters in saving and condensing energy. This was one of the reasons for Iran and other Persian Gulf countries, whose oil and gas is excessive for export, to think about converting their raw oil to Aluminum primary products. For this reason the strategy of aluminum industry was to produce about 1.5 million tons primary aluminum in Iran. On the other hand, Iran had a subsidized economy for about 30 years. The subsidization was considered for some common consumable products, especially for energy, electricity and even some capital investments. The subsidize capacity for energy was almost more than 50 billion US dollars in 2010. The whole economy, industry and even the culture were affected by this policy in Iran. Since 2011, after 30 years of governing subsidy regulation, the policy is changing to competitive condition by elimination of subsidize policy. This makes changing of the economical and technological condition of Iranian industries. The most effect will be for aluminum production industries, as primary aluminum production needs a lot of energy. This article is surveying the condition of aluminum industry, technology and economy for the new condition in Iran. It analyzes the situation with respect to the production in the region and the world. It also investigates the effects of subsidization elimination on strategies of aluminum development, and shows a new road map to these industries in the new circumstance.

In sulfide minerals flotation the effects of grinding media as well as pulp chemistry/electrochemistry have been found to be very effective in metal recoveries. Except that, the release of different anionic and/or cationic chemical species in the process water results from interactions among different mineral species, process water and the grinding media. In fact grinding mill acts as an electrochemical reactor which affect the flotation performances of different value minerals as well as the quality of the tailing products. Investigations have revealed that different grinding media create either reducing or oxidizing environment which in turn results in releasing different cationic and/or anionic chemical species in the process water. Therefore it is needed to control the water effluent within the process plant to avoid environmental pollutant and determination in recovering value minerals. This paper describes the regular monitoring and controlling of different chemical species according to the environmental regulations and attempts to control the level of antimony in water discharge within the flotation plant. Different strategies, including electrochemical controlling of the milling section, Fenton process, and application of Bauxsol in treating the process water have been tested which are described herein.

As is required to be immobilized as a stable compound, since it is produced as byproducts in nonferrous metal processes, typically copper smelting. A novel method for synthesizing large size scorodite particles was developed for removal of high concentration of arsenic in aqueous solution. This method involves the coprecipitation of scorodite particles from an Fe(II) and As(V) aqueous solution at a high temperature by oxygen injection. In order to investigate the stability of scorodite particles, dissolution tests of As in different aqueous solutions were carried out in this study. The results showed that the dissolved amounts of As from the large scorodite particles prepared by this process are very low, although they depend on pH of aqueous solution. The dissolution process of scorodite particles synthesized by the present method is discussed coupled with synthesis conditions of the scorodite particles.

This paper presents a methodological approach of Eco-Design that combines the selection of material and shape with the enviromental impact implemented in the CES software. The target is to choose among the vast range of materials and section shapes available with maximum performance the most ecological solution. The traditional selection process in the case of a load-bearing structure includes different stages and two of them, “screening’ and “rankining�, are developed using the Ashby method. This method consideres multiple constrains and compound objectives applied to a secondary beam. Such analysis leads to the identification of four performance indexes which relative importance is evaluated by the method of weight-factors. A short list of most appropriate candidates is generated based on the total performance index and on the databases included in the CES software: Different materials (steels, aluminum, wood and composites) with different cross section forms (‘T’, ‘I’, ‘L’, ‘U’, etc). This profiles list is subject to another computer aided selection performed by Eco Audit tool. The top list records are ranked according to their energy consumption or CO2 footprint in the atmosphere during life-cycle. The main aim of the proposed approach is to consider at the concept phase of the engineering design the environmental impact of product.

Natural environments are an increasing contribution of the domestic and industrial effluents that have led to the deterioration of many water bodies, making them incompatible with life. This study used aerobic bacteria isolated from environments contaminated with heavy metals and selected a consortium of bacteria that resist acid pH, to test for copper biosorption in batch and continuous system in an aerobic reactor packed with zeolite (clinoptilolite). In batch tests were performed at 50 and 100 mgCu (II)/L at ph 3-5. In the system in batches of 100 mgCu(II)/L there was no copper biosorption and 50mgCu(II)/L biosorption results were 75% with two bacterial strains. In continuous system were presented results of biosorption of up to 97% on day 50 mgCu(II)/L and to 20 mgCu(II)/L the process was maintained until 10 days at rates of 84-96%. This study showed that the concentration of copper affects the biosorption process because these organisms do not support high concentrations of copper as it showed in the study of copper toxicity because the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) was 65 mgCu(II)/L, this indicates that this biomass is not recommended to perform tests of biosorption at higher concentrations of copper.

The industrial activities in Kosova cause air pollutions. Biggest industrial pollutants in Kosova are: * Power Plant Corporation of Kosova, which includes power plants (Kosova "A" and Kosova "B") and lignite open pit in Obiliq; * Industrial Complex “New Co. Ferronikeli Complex L. L. C. �, in Drenas; * Cement Plant - Sharrcem� in Hani i Elezit and * Mining and Metallurgical Complex “Trepça�, in Mitrovica The first three contributors to the pollution are active while industrial complex “Trepça� has inherited pollution, the consequences of which are present today. Effects of industrial air pollution have global impact on: Thinning of the ozone cover, climate change and greenhouse effect. While the effects on local-regional level are : Increase of the temperature in cities, reduce of the radiation of the sun, changing humidity, and acid rain. To achieve the desired quality standards of the air, as in the current (temporary) concentrations as well in persistent (permanent) concentrations, it is recommended the completion of the necessary equipment which will reduce air pollution inside allowed limits (as is the case of industrial complex "New Co. Ferronikeli Complex L. L. C.") where the Venturi system is installed. This is one of the most advanced systems for cleaning gases. After that must be done extension of integrated network for air quality monitoring all over Kosova including preparation and implementation of monitoring programes from the operators, as it's required by the legal framework in the field of environmental protection.

In the recent decades, the search for efficient and low cost effluent treatment technologies is growing for the organic compounds degradation and metal recovery, to reduce the environmental impacts caused by the release into the environment. Phenols are organic compounds found in effluents of various industrial activities, such as petroleum, pharmaceuticals, plastics, metals, steel and mining. In the steel industry, most of phenol comes from coke making for the production of pig iron, where a large amount of quenching water contaminated with phenol and other organic compounds is generated. Despite the precipitation of sodium phenolate, phenol concentration can be five times higher than the limit established by legislation for disposal. The electrochemical technology through the use of different anodic materials has been shown an effective and viable economically and environmentally in the treatment of various types of effluents. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of a plug flow reactor with recycle continuous batch for phenol oxidation, aiming future applications in the effluents treatment from the steel industry. The anode was a RuO2 layered titanium plate; Titanium plate was used as cathode and a silver-silver chloride electrode in a 1 mol. L-1 KCl solution, the reference. The tests were performed using phenol solution in the presence of different concentrations of NaCl. The degradation of phenol and chlorinated byproducts were monitored by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) for identification and quantification of compounds obtained at the end of the process according to USEPA Method 8270D. Results shown that, the rate of COD removal changed as a function of the NaCl concentration. After 30 min of electrolysis in the presence of 20 g. L-1 NaCl, 99.99% COD was removed from the solution. The concentration limit established by Brazilian Environmental Agency (CONAMA) of phenol in Class 1 saltwater, was obtained after 30 min of electrolysis of 100 mg. L-1 phenol at a fixed current density of 10 mA. Cm-2, regardless the chloride concentration used. For chlorophenols a longer electrolysis time was necessary. After, 360 min, this concentration was below the limits established for discharge. The current efficiency (CE) and energy consumption (EC) of the process were calculated from the data of COD and the results shown that, the energy consumption decreased with increasing chloride concentration in solution.

“Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)� for the new “Ceramic & Porcelain Tile Factory� is been carried out as per the mandatory requirement of Kuwait EPA (210/2001). This EIA is the most significant tool and a multidisciplinary approach helps in assessing the environmental impacts of the proposed ‘Ceramic & Porcelain Tile Manufacturing Plant’. The analysis considers potential consequences which may be long-term & short term; Direct or indirect; Primary or secondary; Individual and cumulative; Beneficial and adverse; Significant or insignificant. This topic for the lecture on EIA was selected with the primary objective of impart understanding on the proposed project and their associated environmental consequences for adopting alternatives, preventives, mitigations and helps as paramount scale to decision makers. This EIA study has been conducted with both on qualitative and quantitative assessment of the existing environmental conditions and predicted impacts at the project site and the surrounding study regions. Care has been taken to conduct the monitoring study at different time intervals during the study period of 2 months so as enable suggestive data collection. The EIA study explicitly presents the proposed activities at project site including construction and operation phase, proposed infrastructural facilities, the present baseline environmental & socio- economic settings of the study region, flora and fauna at the site, roads & links. To assess the existing environmental characteristics of the project such as topography, soil, air quality, noise, ecosystem of the study region (flora and fauna), socio-economic conditions, health and safety around the study site have been evaluated in the EIA.

India, with its geographical, climatic and biological diversities, has a unique environmental heritage. Historically, the protection of nature and wild life formed an ardent article of faith, as reflected in the daily lives of the people and also enshrined in myths, folklore, religion, art and culture. Environmental legislation and planning objectives and constitutional legislation on envbironment and its monitoring have been brought out to suit development objectives. The guiding principle has been sustainable development and enhancement of human well-being. Several Acts have been put in place: The mining sector has been regulated by the environment Act, 1986; The Forest Conservation Act 1980; Wild life Act 1972; the Prevention and Control of Pollution Act , 1974 and the Air(Prevention and Control of Pollution)Act 1981. The Ministry of Environment and Forests is the nodal agency whose clearance is essential for sanction of any project. Despite all these provisions there have been violations of these Acts, leading to legal battles which go on and on. A draft on National Environment Policy was prepared in 2005 to harmonize development and environment aspects.

The main goal of the paper is an presentation of the equipment for the catalytic waste gases filters, based on the nanofiber materials. These filters are addressed for the municipal solid waste incineration plants. It is possible to test the mechanical, chemical and thermal stability of the filters in the environment close to the conditions in real incineration technology. There are model pollutants applied to the hot air (250 °C) in the laboratory equipment. The pilot equipment is placed in the incineration plant. The gases are fed into the pilot equipment from the real incineration process. Verification of the filters ' effectivity is performed by the sampling prior to the filter and behind it.

This work was related to the estimation of formaldehyde in the dairy products by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, using chromotropic acid as the coloring agent. . It’s the quantative analysis to estimate the %age of formaldehyde in different samples. According to the results, the highest amount of formaldehyde was present in powdered milk and the least %age of formaldehyde was present in butter and margarine. Formaldehyde can cause many disorders, it may cause irritation of the upper respiratory track and in eyes, coughing, chest tightness, pulmonary infections, throat swelling, chemical burns of the lungs and its also carcinogenic in nature so ultimately leads to death. I had taken these dairy products for analysis. Sample of liquid milk. Sample of khoya. Sample of powder milk Sample of ice cream. Sample of ream. Sample of yogurt. Sample of whitener. (tea milk) Sample of cheese. Sample of margarine. Sample of butter.

Environment needs biodegradability of materials. Much effort had recently been made to develop environment-friendly biodegradable materials because of the worldwide environment and resources resulted from petroleum-derived plastics. Traditional plastic artifacts produced from synthetic polymers are known for their inertness to the immediate attack by microorganisms. Although this characteristic is associated with their multipurpose applications, increasing environmental concerns have arisen from the disposal of plastics in nature. As a response, the development of biodegradable materials that could substitute synthetic polymers, at least in some of their applications, has been encouraged. In our laboratory, we made an approach to fabricate natural polymer based thin film alternative to conventional packaging material. We used starch, chitosan, gelatin and catechu to prepare thin film by blending technique. Mechanical and water uptake of the film were investigated. Physical (gamma and UV radiation) and chemical (various monomers) methods were applied to increase the film properties. It was found that both physical and chemical methods had a significant effect on the film properties up to a certain limit. The highest tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (Eb) of chitosan film were found to be 31Mpa and 71.25%, respectively, at 20th UV pass for 1 min soaking in 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) monomer. The highest TS and Eb were found to be 22.4 MPa and 19.5%, respectively, at 2 min soaking in vinyltrimethoxy silane monomer under 15th pass of UV radiation for 2:1 starch/catechu film. Gelatin films also showed the same trend. The objective of this work is to modify polymeric thin film derived from renewable resources to achieve the processing, gas barrier, water resistance, biodegradation, and mechanical properties required to enable the wider use of these materials in packaging applications.

Methane, the principle component of natural gas, is available in large quantities and is preferable to other hydrocarbon fuels because of its cleaner combustion. Moreover methane has the highest H/C ratio, and consequently a higher research octane number than other fuels. In this work, Methane (CH4), and Carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption on iron terephthalate (MOF-235) were studied. At first, we synthesized MOF-235 using 1, 4- Benzenedicarboxylic acid (terephthalic acid) and ferric chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3•6H2O) under autogeneous pressure. Resulting sample was characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer- Emmet- Teller (BET) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) methods. CH4 and CO2 adsorption capacities were measured separately and by volumetric method. MOF-235 showed CH4 and CO2 adsorption capacities of 2.5 and 0.17 (m. Mol of gas adsorbed. G- adsorbent-1), respectively. The high selectivity for CH4 over CO2 (14.7), suggests that MOF-235 is a potential adsorbent material for the separation of CH4 from gas mixtures.

This paper looks at different conditions of hydrous pyrolysis to test the degradation and or reactivity of mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PAH (anthracene, flourene and acenaphthene). This is one of many approaches towards the main objective of treatment of industrial effluent from aluminium smelting where PAHs are released in the electrolytic process. Pyrolysis was performed at different durations under the following conditions:400 oC with water, 400 oC with Formic Acid (HCO2H), 300 oC with water / Nafion - SiO2 catalyst and 300 oC with water / Nafion-SiO2 / Pd-C catalysts respectively. Oxidised and reduced forms of the PAHs were identified.

Based in the collecting of dates weathers conditions during years in Albania, in this paper we study possibility of occurring of phenomena of “galloping� in overhead transmission line. A numerical analysis is presented in order to simulate galloping type motion of transmission line. Computerized simulations can simulate numerous cases and determine the influence of diverse parameters on galloping, as well as "pre-test" a future line before building it. Many models have been developed for the simulations based on differential equations solving or on finite element modeling. The proposed methodology is based on differential equations modeling of the transmission lines for simulation of galloping. A simulation program that can simulate transmission lines motion taking effects of the ice and wind to clarify the characteristics of the galloping phenomenon, and to establish a rational design method for galloping it is developed. With help of software SAMCEF Version 6, tests have been done in a span of Mati river, to define the measures to be undertaken to eliminate the damages of this phenomena.

Christian Ludwig (1,2), Frédéric Vogel (1), Martin Brandenberger (1), Mariluz Bagnoud (1,2), Andrea Testino (1,2), Rudolf Struis (1,2) and Ludwig Hermann (3)(1) Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), General Energy Research Department (ENE), CH 5232 Villigen PSI(2) École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering (ENAC-IIE), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland(3) Proman Management GmbH, Weingartenstraße 92, 2214 Auersthal, AustriaWith the nuclear catastrophe in Fukushima the current discussions about greenhouse gases, peaking oil fields and other limitations related to fossil energy carriers, and the perspectives of new renewable energy technologies has reached a new point of culmination. However, by all this hype, it gets forgotten that many other non-energy resources are also limited and may even more severely endanger the social freedom at many places on the globe. Moreover, future renewable energy supply is coupled with the use of other limited resources. Among the potential renewable energy resources there is consensus that bioenergy is one of the most cost-effective options of substituting fossil fuels and reducing the net emissions of CO2. However, its naturally available potential is limited and cultivating plants for energy use has recently been criticized because its production is competing with resources needed for the food production. Critical resources are a) valuable agricultural soils, b) fertilizers, such as phosphorus, and c) in some regions water for irrigation. In our opinion it is therefore necessary to find biofuel technologies which address all three points. Together with many partners from academia and industry Paul Scherrer Institut is currently developing a new technology that can address all of the above points and moreover is very energy efficient. The novel process is based on microalgae cultivation using the conversion of the algal biomass to methane through a catalytic hydrothermal gasification process (SunCHem process e. G. [1,2]). The process is a closed-loop system with respect to nutrients and CO2, which are recycled and reused for the growth of microalgae. Water which is not used as make up water is also reused. In this presentation we will dicuss the potential and key challenges faced which need to be tackled in order to successfully implement the technology in the market. This example will also show that mineral processing technology in the future will not only be relevant in the raw material production or the end-of-life processing of goods but that they may play a prominent role in the use phase of bio-energy supply chains. References[1] Haiduc, A. G., Brandenberger, M., Suquet, S., Vogel, F., Bernier-Latmani, R., Ludwig, Chr., SunCHem: An integrated process for the hydrothermal production of methane from microalgae and CO2 mitigation, J. Appl. Phycology 21:5 (2009) 529-541[2] Stucki, S., Vogel, F., Ludwig, Chr., Haiduc, A. G., Brandenberger, M., Catalytic gasification of algae in supercritical water for biofuel production and carbon capture, Energy & Environ. Sci., 2, (2009) 535-542

JRC project has been designed in close collaboration with DG Environment in support to the European Commission’s air quality policy in the framework of the CAFE programme. In particular, the project contributes to the development of new regulations and to the harmonised implementation of the recently adopted Air Quality directives. In support to the European Union Air Quality Policy, project contributes to the provision, the compilation and the critical analysis of scientific evidence for the preparation of new directives or the revision of existing directives. The Cracow project focuses on research for the in-depth understanding of air pollution and the chemical/physical processes, which determine the impact of pollutants on humans and vegetation. This is done through the harmonisation of assessment strategies, organisation of ad-hoc measurement campaigns, the use of dispersion models and the impact assessment of air pollutants on human health and ecosystems. The project supports Action of EU called the European Environment and Health Strategy. Specific Objectives of the Action are: • Harmonisation and standardisation of air quality measurements through the development of reference methods, measurement strategies, and quality assessment programmes, as well as the provision of guidance to Member States for the implementation of air quality directives; • Air Quality Modelling support to the DG Environment CAFE programme, including urban-to-regional scale modelling assessing the impact of emission reductions on the regional scale, as well as the participation in a model intercomparison exercise at the street canyon scale. • Assessment of health effects from air pollution, especially though the co-ordination of the PEOPLE project assessing outdoor, indoor and exposure levels of/to benzene in European capitals, including the validation of new sensors for population and personal exposure assessment and of models dealing with aerosol dynamics and health effects of fine and ultra-fine particles. • Assessment of air pollution concentration and deposition fluxes in agricultural, forest and natural ecosystems for the evaluation of damages to vegetation.

The Lead-Zinc Smelter KCM AD is situated near Plovdiv (Bulgaria) in one of the most luxuriant lowland in the world – the Thracian, which is famous with developed intensive agriculture. KCM AD is the biggest producer of non-ferrous metals in the Central and Eastern Europe. In the past KCM AD was a “hot� spot on the Bulgarian map in connection with the contamination of soil, air and water with aerosols, Pb, Cd, Zn, SO2, etc. A periodical monitoring of the soil contamination on the vicinity of KCM AD is carrying out from the 2000 year. For this purpose 15 points of sample takings are choused based on the preliminary investigations. The results obtained for the Pb, Cd and Zn content in the sample takings points, at different distances from KCM AD show that they are more than threshold limit values {TLV) several times. The soil contamination with lead has higher degree comparing with the zinc contamination and has a larger area. Now there is a tendency for decreasing of soil contamination in the area of KCM AD. The highest values of the main pollutants (Pb, Cd, Zn) are established in the soil from the forest-shelter belt which is very close to the Pb-Zn smelter. The process method used in lead plant now is pyrometallurgical, consisting of sintering, shaft furnace reduction smelting and pyro-refining. KCM AD is planning to implement a new, modern and highly efficient lead smelting plant in compliance with the European and World’s best environmental standards. The aims of the project are: • To complete technological and technical renovation of the lead producing installations. • Solving the present environmental problems with the high emissions of diffuse dust and SO2 in off-gas. • Enabling the future operation of the New Lead Plant (NLP) in full conformity with the Bulgarian emission standards which are based on the European Standards (recommendable for EU) for the environment. The Basic Engineering undertaken for KCM AD is based on the replacement of the current lead smelting facility with process plant based upon two-stage non-ferrous Top Submerged Lance (TSL) oxidization/reduction process, namely Ausmelt Technology. KCM AD’s plan is to proceed to a detail design and implementation phase culminating in construction of new plant in 2013.

The main power for an electric car can be provided by a secondary battery with high energy density. Lithium sulfur batteries based on the multi-electron reaction are a very promising candidate for the next generation high energy density rechargeable batteries. It has a high theoretical capacity of 1675 mAh g-1 of S and a high nominal theoretical energy density of 2600 Wh kg-1 of cell weight, which has the potential to offer a practical energy density double the value in comparison with the present Li-ion batteries. However, it is plagued with problems due to the highly insulating nature of sulfur and the high solubility of lithium polysulfides. One of the most successful strategies to overcome this problem is to fabricate sulfur-porous carbon composites. Mass production of these lithium sulfur batteries would require a large amount of sulfur which can be met as sulfur production continues to increases every year. On the other hand, if is the need of lithium that has to be considered as there is insufficient economically recoverable lithium available in the Earth's crust to sustain electric vehicle manufacturing in the volumes required.

The H2S as well as representing a risk to human health, also represents a source of economic risk, it can cause corrosion in metals of interest in civil and industrial and alteration of cement manufactures with considerable economic losses. The metals most prone to processes of sulfurization are copper, silver and iron, particularly in metal armatures of reinforced concrete, the chemical process leads to swelling and disaggregation of the concrete itself. Among the aggressive concrete sulfates are undoubtedly the most dangerous, the sulphate attack is manifested through the excessive swelling of the conglomerate of entities that may occur cracking or detachment of material. The swelling is expressed mainly on cortical areas of the concrete in contact with sulphates from the external environment. Destructive reactions of the concrete due to the presence of sulfates in the environment are basically the formation of bi-hydrated gypsum, Ettringite and Thaumasite. An expeditious and easily applicable method is now allowed through the application of the VOP®© Test, patented by Palmisano and Voltaggio (CNR). This test helps detect and determine on a quantitative basis and on different matrices, but especially in situ, traces of soluble sulfates at different concentrations (from a few hundred ppm to several percentage units) coupled Rodizonato of the use of sodium in aqueous solution with a solution of salts of barium. The proposed method can be calibrated for a specific threshold in sulfate content, simply changing the title of the barium nitrate solution. In this paper the authors introduce a casuistry on bridge-pylons and pipelines in r. C., steel lampposts and stone face-works and explain rehabilitation techniques.

Introduction. The concept of bottling and selling water from Albanian was introduced in the early 1990s. Since then the bottled water industry has thrived and numerous brands (both domestically produced and imported) are now firmly established on the Albanian market. Average monthly expenditure of bottled water (including natural and spring water) in Albania are 220 $ . Albanian consumers have demonstrated their willingness to spend their money - on bottled water for its consistent safety, high quality and good taste. Consumers reportedly choose bottled water for its taste and purity. Bottled water in the smallest package sizes (1.5 liters and smaller) comprise the fastest growing segment of the quick moving bottled water category, growing at double-digit rates throughout the 1990s. Methods. A total of 150 samples (Natural water & spring water in different sizes) taken by hygienic sanitary inspection were analyzed by the food microbiology laboratories in the Health Public Institute, in Tirana. Water samples are transported according to the standards and analyzed not more than 2 days after sampling. Samples were analyzed for the following parameters using the analytical reference methods which are specified in Commission Directive. Total Coliforms, E. Coli, P. Aeruginosa, Aerobic colony count (at 22oC and 37oC)Findings. Regarding the quality parameters of the samples taken into consideration there are analyzed 10 chemical parameters (BOD5, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate. The chemical parameters were found within the allowed levels. The highest bacteriological contamination was found in the 6 liter packaging, E. Coli in 25 %, St. Fecal in 23 %, Total. Coliforms in 80 % and S. Fecal in 10 % of samples for the year 2008. While the contamination of sparkling packaging (0.5 and 1.5 liter) was lower than larger ones. Conclusion. This bacteriological contamination originates from the low hygiene and low sanitation condition in the enterprises and the lack of HACCP (Hazard Critical Control Point System).

Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Nano-scaled Metal and Ceramic PowdersM. Willert-Porada. E. Fuchs, M. Singh, Z. PajkicUniversity of Bayreuth, Chair of Materials ProcessingProcesses for synthesis of nanoscaled powders have to insure control of purity and of morphology for such powders. Two different strategies can be applied: Pre-synthesis surface energy control or post-synthesis surface energy control within a high energy synthesis process. The pre-synthesis surface energy control processes are based on templates used in colloids or emulsions as micro-reactors or on agents which form stable complexes with the precursors during powder synthesis. Examples of such processes are Colloidal, Emulsion, Chemical Solution Deposition (CSD) or Polyol based powder syntheses. The potential of process kinetic enhancement is very limited upon such process conditions. Opposite to this, kinetic influence is high upon high energy synthesis processes. In particular, enhancement of reactions is possible upon plasma chemical vapour deposition, PE-CVD. Powder synthesis processes at ambient pressure are of particular importance, because of many existing flame powder syntheses. Upon atmospheric pressure microwave radiation offers the highest process stability for plasma generation. Therefore, in case of microwave plasma high energy synthesis processing conditions can be combined with Colloidal, CSD or Polyol reaction conditions because microwave fields enable plasma condition in gaseous as well as liquid fluids. Microwave assisted processes open up the way to combine surface energy controlled nanopowder synthesis with kinetic control of processes. The paper will present fundamentals of heat and charge transfer upon microwave assisted colloidal and polyol processing of Nano-powders as well as PE-CVD fundamentals. Synthesis of Oxides, like e. G., ZrO2 and nano-TiO2, Phosphates, like nano-LiFePO4, metals like Ni and Semi-conductors, like Silicon will be discussed.

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the advantages and difficulties in using solar energy. Kosova is located in the central part of East Europe (inside latitude 41050΄42΄΄ - 43015΄42΄΄). The climate of Kosova is related to geographical position and of course depends on the amount of heat coming from the sun. Kosova power system 95% rely on the burning of fossil fuel-lignite coal. The use of solar energy will influence the reduction of emission of CO2 and other gases that are causing climate change and greenhouse effect. Kosova has at least 250 days of sunshine annually. According to surveys insolation (solar radiation) Kosova has an average 2066 hours of sunshine during the year or an average of 5.7 hours a day with the sun, which represents 47% of solar radiation possible. Solar radiation on the surface of the earth is 1400 Wh/m2 in year. Solar thermal energy can be especially attractive to water heaters, but the period of return for the investments in households is too long. Demonstration projects may be useful to show the potential of technology, but implementation is difficult without funding mechanisms for byers and without consolidation of Kosova legal framework in this field.

A composite Ag-TiO2 photocatalyst was synthesized by photodeposition of nanocrystals of Ag (2-4 nm) from a solution on a suspension of TiO2 nanopowder (20-25nm). The composite photocatalyst powder was characterised by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The principle for generating hydrogen from an aqueous suspension of Ag-TiO2 by photocatalytic redox reduction reaction is discussed. Based on observation of gas formation, calculations are presented accounting for the observation.

Silicon layers deposited on glass substrate by successive chemical solution deposition (SCSD) were studied. Photoluminescence spectra (PL) and optical absorption characteristics due to different treatment of the film were investigated. It was found that the PL peak intensity at visible region remarkably increases when air annealing of the film in performed. Infrared absorption studies indicated that surface molecule identities are immaterial to the enhancement or degradation of photoluminescence. Some other properties of the deposited layers such as transmittance or reflection studied as well. The studied properties akin to the Photovoltaic Cells could be useful for the layer-based silicon production. PACC: 7360F, 7340S, 7360T

This work presents a concept for using electrochemical principles, concrete technology, “green facades� and a recently designed pulse cathodic protection (CP) technique (as corrosion prevention or protection) in order to achieve a novel and ecologically friendly solution for deteriorated or new reinforced concrete structures. Fig.1. Schematic presentation of the “green� cathodic protection concept“Quality of life� is becoming a main issue in modern urban environments. Except corrosion-related durability issues for reinforced concrete structures, some important and emerging concerns, are: Reduction of the “heat island effect� in hot seasons (and reduction of heat release in cold seasons); Reduction of noise transmission, reuse, recycling and energy savings. Traditionally, the aims of “green facades� or “roofs� are to create benefit for both nature and humans. On a more technical basis, energy saving by isolation (in summer periods); Microclimate improvement and capability of plants to adsorb air polluting substances are aimed. All these are very important, but are actually considered to be with a (more or less) aesthetical purpose mainly. Our concept suggest a combined application of pulse CP and green facades, by using an innovative bio-foam cement based layer as an anode cover (Fig.1). The paper integrates electrochemistry, concrete material science and biotechnology aspects and will discuss the principles of the novel pulse CP for reinforced concrete, preliminary studies on concrete as a “growing medium� for green facades and the concept for combination of these in achieving sustainable and durable solutions in civil engineering applications.

FLSmidth research area is developing a new process to direct treatment of zinc concentrate. Three Pyrometallurgical options are evaluated, Roasting, Oxidative Reduction and Water Vapor Oxidation. A thermodynamic and experimental investigation is conducted to develop a new process to extract Zinc Sulfide into pure Zinc by evaluation of these three processes. The kinetics of the reaction are determined by measuring the weight change of a sample with time in water vapor at temperatures between 800-1200oC. The results are analyzed by a Shrinking Unreacted Core model under chemical reaction control. Recoveries of >90% of Zinc, with little Iron contamination and reduced CO2 gas emission product are expected.

Regenerative energy systems (RES) are the answer to the grand challenge of this century to use sunlight and water to produce clean, environment-friendly energy for sustainable development on a massive scale. The individual RES subsystems are photovoltaic array, electrolyzer, storage for hydrogen and oxygen, and fuel cell. The efficiency of RES is low based on current proton exchange membrane (PEM) and solid oxide membrane (SOM) technologies for the electrolyzer and fuel cell. A partially regenerative system with significant improvement is efficiency can be designed by using carbon or hydrocarbon fuels in high-temperature solid oxide electrolyzers and fuel cells based on liquid metal electrodes. In this presentation results obtained with laboratory tubular cathode supported fuel cells based on stabilized zirconia electrolyte, and using carbon saturated liquid copper electrodes, will be presented. High current density of 2.3 A/cm2 and power density of 1.7 W/cm2 have been achieved. The power output is based on the oxidation of C to CO and external heat supply, in contrast to conventional SOFC which derives power from the oxidation of H2 and CO to H2O and CO2. The conceptual design of partial oxidation fuel cells surrounded by a combustion chamber will be presented. Such fuel cells can in principle be used to convert thermal energy from high-temperature nuclear reactors to electricity without the Carnot restriction. In a high-temperature electrolyzer based on cermet supported zirconia electrolyte tubes and carbon-saturated liquid copper electrode, spontaneous electrolysis is observed up to a current density of 0.75 A/cm2. A small voltage is required for electrolysis at higher current densities. The power required for electrolysis using this electrolyzer is less than the power generated by combining the products of electrolysis in a conventional SOFC operated at the same current density up to 2.2 A/cm2. The liquid metal offers a favorable medium for rapid reaction between carbon and oxygen.

This work presents the results of wastewater sludge treatment coming from a dismissed industrial site. Sludge sample is collected from an industrial site and subjected to several processing steps to extract the heavy metals Cu, Ni, Cd and Zn. The distribution of the metal fraction shows that by leaching with sulfuric acid heavy metals (Cu, Ni and Zn) can be extracted from sludge with a high percentage. Cd is present in two metal fractions (exchangeable and reducible fraction). The extractive solution obtained was subjected to an electrodeposition to remove metals. To minimize power consumption, the cathode used was made in the same material as the removed metal. In order to have deposition time as similar as possible, the cathode area used was adapted to the concentration of the respective metal. The removal of each metal was made potentiostatically at different potentials. The deposition rate of the metals was different, Nickel and cadmium show the highest deposition rate, while the zinc shows the lowest. The results show that 99 % of metal reduction was achieved and the solution obtained after electrodeposition contains metals concentrations in agreement with Algerian legislations.

Germany is accelerating its efforts to become the world's first industrial power to use 100 % renewable energy. In fact, renewable energy technologies have been deployed rapidly in Germany since 1990 largely as a result of: A) energy policies adopted by the German government, and b) the European Union. The share of electricity produced from renewable energy in Germany has increased from 6.3 % of the national total in 2000 to about 17 % in 2010. This paper discusses effectiveness of renewable energy policy in Germany. It also deals with challenges to the future development of renewable energy. The paper concludes that over the past two decades, Germany’s approach toward renewable energy has shifted from a focus on publicly-financed research and development (R & D) toward policies promoting application and implementation of new technologies in the market place. This transition has occurred gradually and as a result of a number of domestic and international political developments since the 1980s. The European Union (EU) Directives mandating aggressive renewable energy deployment, pressure from domestic environmental advocates and legislators, the phase-out of nuclear power, and commitments to international treaties such as the Kyoto Protocol all have been important factors in the evolution of German energy policy.

Waste utilization has nowadays become more important. Mineral processing techniques have been used in remediation of shooting range soils. The studied soil originated from a Finnish shooting range. This was heavily contaminated by lead-containing pellets and their disintegrated fine-grained weathering products. Using remediation technology based on mineral processing methods the pellets could be separated as a abnormal high grade concentrate containing 97 % lead. The feed materials of the remediation tests were very high lead content having samples the other 14,4 % lead the one 30,9 % lead. Earlier developed separation technology produced high lead recoveries for both test materials 84 % and 94 % respectively. The altering process, which is very commonly known especially for lead and its different compounds, has been moved from original lead into secondary compounds. These compounds are normally very finely disseminated and absorbed especially into organic matter. This phenomen is causing that a part of lead is lost when organic matter is rejected. The lost lead can be recovered by burning the organic matter and separating it from the ash. This gives also an envirommentally friendly total process.

HNO3, H2SO4, and KMnO4 were used for the oxidation of multiwalled Carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The oxidized MWCTs were selected as sorbent and to study the characterization isotherm of Tl(III). The oxidized MWCNTs exhibit improved physicochemical properties. These oxidized MWCNTs have more negatively charged surface, and as a result are the best adsorbent for Tl(III). The maximum amount of Tl(III) sorbed on MWCNTs, MWCNTs (H2SO4), MWCNTs(KMnO4) , MWCNT(HNO3), calculated by Langmuir model are 2, 12, 22 and 32 mg/g, respectively. The MWCNTs oxidized by HNO3 have the best sorption performance for Tl(III).

The sulfur-carbon composites made of sulfur and CNT (Carbon nanotube) bundles were synthesized by thermally treating the as-prepared CNT bundles with sublimed sulfur at 300 oC. A loading of 62 % sulfur is obtained after thermal treatment. The as-prepared cathode samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The sulfur-CNT bundles showed high capacity and good cycle performance. It is suggested that the sulfur-CNT bundle composite can effectively confine the diffusion of dissolved polysulfides in the organic electrolyte.

Currently the best catalysts for the HER (Hydrogen Evolution Reaction) is Pt but due to their high costs numerous studies are underway to replace it and Al has emerged as a promising source of hydrogen. However, given its strong tendency to passivates due to the formation of an Al2O3 film, has been used in conditions in which its surface is constantly renewed, or its hyperactivation has been induced by the addition of metals of low melting point, like Sn or In. In this study both effects were analyzed together. Bimetallic materials Al-X (X= Sn or In) were synthesized by ball milling, and the effect of both, the content of Sn or In, and the milling time were analyzed. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and the evaluation of their electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), was studied in a 2M NaCl solution at 25°C, by cyclic polarization and potentiostatic pulses. The mechanical milling proved to be a suitable as synthesis method for to obtain aluminum base materials containing low melting point metals better that the classical method of fusion. Also provide high surface area materials. The crystallite size of the synthesized materials was around 20nm. The presence of Sn and In significantly improved the reactivity of Al for HER, especially when the content of them was 0.04%, however, milling time had no significant effect.

Top gas recycling, combined with using oxygen rather than air, has been proposed as a way to reduce the carbon intensity of blast furnace ironmaking; It is an important part of the European ULCOS program. In the work presented here, a Rist-style blast furnace mass and energy balance was use to predict the effect of top gas recycling on the coke rate, top gas and flame temperatures, and carbon intensity. The calculated effects on coke rate and productivity agree with those quoted in ULCOS publications. However, removal of carbon dioxide from the top gas by vacuum pressure swing adsorption would be a large consumer of electricity. This would render top gas recycling blast furnaces uneconomical without a carbon tax, and would be to the detriment of vertical integration of ironmaking and steelmaking.

Ferroalloys production is an energy-intensive industrial sector with significant CO2 emissions. It has a firm client-principal relationship to iron and steel production but also close similarities in production technologies. Thus examination of these processes together and their comparison is mostly well-founded. In this paper the current situation in ferroalloys processes is discussed from the standpoint of global environmental issues, trends and development. Progress and data of ferroalloys production are compared with steel industry, the main user of ferroalloys. Emission factors of processes and electricity production are examined as well as possibilities and future scenarios how to diminish CO2 emissions.

This study evaluates the middle scale spatial/seasonal variability of PM2.5 and PM10 at five sampling localities. Statistical significant differences in PM values could be crucial for a representative placement of a measuring station at the locality. A set of 8 portable laser nephelometers DustTrak - DT (8520, TSI) was used to record 5 minute integrates of PM2.5 and PM10 consecutively for each size for 3 days at 5 localities. The localities were rural, urban, background and freeway and contrasted as far as the main aerosol sources are concerned. At each locality, inter-DT distances ranged from 30 - 500m, 80 – 220m, 70 – 150m, and 30m and total area covered 380 000 m$^2, in rural, urban, background and freeway locality, respectively. As expected, PM2.5 did not vary statistically significantly (alpha=0.05) among DT’s at all localities in both winter and summer with the exception of freeway, where high PM2.5 differences were recorded regardless season due to the proximity to highway as the strong source of fine aerosol fraction. Contrary to PM2.5, inter-DT PM10 values varied significantly at rural and freeway localities probably due to nearby fugitive aerosol sources. At urban and background localities inter-DT PM10 differences were not significant in both seasons. Winter PM concentrations were generally higher than summer ones at all the localities with exception of PM10 at freeway due to low air humidity during summer. Wilcoxon signed-ranks test for 2 dependent samples, together with meteorological data were used to evaluate a dynamic of PM2.5 and PM10 at each locality with respect to season.

Red mud is the major solid waste produced in the process of alumina extraction. The red mud, assaying 50.60%Fe, 8.36%Al2O3, was developed to effectively beneficiate iron by the process of direct reduction-low intensity magnetic separation. The upgrading results show that the final iron concentrate, assaying 90.9wt%Fe, 0.95wt%Al2O3 and 95.5% metallization degree was obtained at an overall iron recovery of 95.8% under the following conditions: Coal based reducing the red mud pellets containing 12% sodium containing complex additive at 1050 oC for 80 min, and finally magnetic separation of the reduced pellets by grinding up to 97.2% passing 0.074 mm at 0.1T field intensity.

Increasingly the zinc industry is being asked to provide information to downstream users of zinc and zinc containing products on the environmental footprint of the materials it produces. Material specifiers and product engineers in key end use markets, such as building, construction and transportation, are more and more interested in selecting materials that have the best environmental profile while meeting traditional cost, quality and technical performance criteria. Understanding the environmental footprint of zinc starts with documenting the resource requirements and environmental releases associated with upstream metal production operations, but it also involves understanding the impacts and the benefits of using zinc during other stages in the product life cycle. These benefits can arise in use (e. G. Extending the life of steel products) and through end-of-life recycling (e. G. By utilizing recycled zinc to create new products). This paper will provide an overview of the numerous sustainable attributes of zinc and its contributions to a sustainable society.

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