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Evaluation of Organic Fertilizer Products to Enhance Seed Cotton (Gossypium spp.) Yield in Alkaline Soil of Middle Awash Valley Ethiopia
Diriba Megersa Soboka,
Bethel Nekir,
Getinet Adugna
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
48-53
Received:
1 June 2022
Accepted:
1 July 2022
Published:
13 July 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.11
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Abstract: Melfert is the organic fertilizer that has been reported to supply a top quality organic matter and reclaim degraded soils. This study was carried out to evaluate the importance of the product for the seed cotton yield improvement. The experiment was conducted during 2018 main cropping season at Amibara District, Afar region, Ethiopia. The experiment comprised of seven treatments, and designed in randomized complete block design with four replications. Results showed that the mean seed cotton yield was significantly influenced by the application of Melfert organic fertilizer. Application of 1 t ha-1 Melfert organic fertilizer alone or in combination with full or one-third of the recommended rate of N (46 kg ha-1) produced significantly higher seed cotton yield (p<0.05) compared to the recommended nitrogen fertilizer level (46 kg ha-1). However, application of SeaMelpure organic fertilizer alone or in combination with Melfert or recommended N did not show positive effect on seed cotton yield. Despite the yield increment with the application of Melfert organic fertilizer alone or combined with full (reduced) dose of nitrogen fertilizer, application of 46 kg ha-1 N, which is the existing recommendation, was still found economically feasible. Therefore, the new products could not be promoted as better management option for seed cotton production unless the cost is reduced and further investigation is advised.
Abstract: Melfert is the organic fertilizer that has been reported to supply a top quality organic matter and reclaim degraded soils. This study was carried out to evaluate the importance of the product for the seed cotton yield improvement. The experiment was conducted during 2018 main cropping season at Amibara District, Afar region, Ethiopia. The experime...
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Synthesis and Characterization of MgO-Doped / Acid Modified Metakaolin Supported Ni-Based Catalysts
Abdullahi Nwaha Isah,
Elizabeth Jumoke Eterigho,
Moses Aderemi Olutoye,
Mohammed Umar Garba
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
54-65
Received:
21 October 2021
Accepted:
15 November 2021
Published:
13 July 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.12
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Abstract: Catalytic steam reforming of bioethanol is an endothermic reaction for hydrogen production with high tendency of complete conversion at high temperature, but the catalyst is susceptible to deactivation due to the sintering of based metal and carbon deposition. MgO-doped/acid modified metakaolin supported nickel-based catalysts (with 5-25wt% nickel loading) were synthesized using wetness impregnation method and characterized. The physicochemical properties of the catalysts were examined using XRD, BET, SEM-EDX, XRF, FTIR and TG/DTA techniques. XRD patterns show the presence of nickel oxide, spinel MgAl2O4, NiAl2O4 in all the calcined catalyst samples, via characteristic peaks. Most of the crystallite sizes of the NiO particles in the synthesized catalysts were within 20.1-38nm, far less than the size effect threshold of 100nm, except CAT II, with crystallite size of 132.5nm, which could be attributed to the high tendency of NiO particles to agglomerate with MgO. Based on BET results, all the synthesized catalysts have pore diameter in the mesopore diameter range. SEM-EDX results show that there is nuclear interaction among MgO, NiO and Al2O3, as confirmed by XRD and XRF analyses. The FTIR analyses show that nickel phyllosilicate bond, Si-O-Al stretching vibration, OH stretching and metal-oxygen bond exist within the synthesized catalysts. The formation of MgAl2O4 and NiAl2O4 spinel phases is due to the interaction of active oxide components with acid modified metakaolin and MgO, which contributes to the catalyst thermal stability, as confirmed by TG/DTA analyses. These spinel structures would contribute to the catalysts’ activity and selectivity, as their structures could remain unchanged under severe reaction conditions. The mesoporous structure of the synthesized catalysts would aid the reactant gases to adsorb on its surface and easy diffusion through the catalyst’s channel after reaction. With better interaction among the support, promoter and based metal in the synthesized catalysts and available surface OH group, the formation and conversion of adsorbed formate intermediate during steam reforming reactions would be facilitated, and in turn reduce carbon deposition.
Abstract: Catalytic steam reforming of bioethanol is an endothermic reaction for hydrogen production with high tendency of complete conversion at high temperature, but the catalyst is susceptible to deactivation due to the sintering of based metal and carbon deposition. MgO-doped/acid modified metakaolin supported nickel-based catalysts (with 5-25wt% nickel ...
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Production and Characterization of Bioethanol from Acid Catalysed Hydrolysis of Cellulosic Biomass (Maize Cob)
Ogala Harrison,
Chidozie Ekene,
Iboyi Nathaniel
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
66-70
Received:
26 May 2022
Accepted:
13 June 2022
Published:
20 July 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.13
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Abstract: The purpose of this finding is to produce ethanol using a second generation biomass (maize cob) and to investigate the potential of bioethanol production from cellulosic biomass (maize cob). Due to a great dependence on fossil resources, continuously rising of petroleum cost and increase in greenhouse emission have compelled policy makers toward attaining a renewable and sustainable source of energy such as bioethanol. In the cause of production of bioethanol using maize cob, the study of dilute H2SO4 hydrolysis (0.25 M to 2M) was first carried out at varying temperatures; (40 to 100°C) and reaction time (60 to 105 min) under a magnetic stirrer. The percentage yield of glucose was carried out to ascertain the yield from the substrate used, physicochemical characterization was also done to know both the physical and chemical component of the bioethanol produce also, fuel characterization was conducted on the bioethanol to ascertain if the produce is truly bioethanol and to know if it can be used as fuels in engines. From the result, a low glucose yield was observed at low acid concentration of 0.25 M and 0.5 M with gradual increase at 1 M and 2 M. A remarkable glucose yield was observed at high temperature 90°C with declining effect on glucose yield as the reaction time exceeded 90 min. The result further showed that yeast had effect on the glucose yield during fermentation. Bioethanol was later recovered through distillation at 78.9°C after fermentation. Physicochemical properties of the bioethanol under study such as; color, specific gravity (0.781 g/cm3), pH (7.2) and refractive index (1.3477) indicated that both complied with ASTM Standard for E100 with exception of Refractive Index which is slightly low. The fuel properties such as; Flash Point (16.50°C) and Octane Rating (117) indicated that both are within ASTM E100 set limit with exception of Cloud Point (-11°C) which is lower than the Standard and Pour Point (-13°C) which is higher than the ASTM Limitations. From this findings, it is well discovered that maize cob has high cellulosic content and as such it is suitable for bioethanol production having passed the physicochemical and fuel properties characterization.
Abstract: The purpose of this finding is to produce ethanol using a second generation biomass (maize cob) and to investigate the potential of bioethanol production from cellulosic biomass (maize cob). Due to a great dependence on fossil resources, continuously rising of petroleum cost and increase in greenhouse emission have compelled policy makers toward at...
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Electric Energy Impact on the Environment: Factors Influencing the Sustained Energy-Inefficient Lamps Utilisation in Nigeria Residential Sector
Zacchaeus Adesakin Adetona,
Joel Ogunyemi
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
71-79
Received:
20 June 2022
Accepted:
18 July 2022
Published:
29 July 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.14
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Abstract: In this study, the reasons behind sustained utilisation of non-energy saving lamps (ESLs) in Nigeria vis-à-vis global lamps utilisation and environmental impacts of using non-ESLs was examined. The study was conducted via an online questionnaire using a qualitative research approach to survey 62 randomly selected apartments in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria on policy awareness and motivation for non-ESL utilisation. Data obtained were tested for lamps’ utilisation dependency on household income using correlation and regression analysis with 5% significant level. The impact of sustained non-ESL utilisation on CO2 emission was looked into. Pearson’s regression coefficients (R2) of 0.4646, 0.4772, 0.2716 and 0.4871 were obtained for incandescent, CFL, LED and magnetic ballast fluorescent lamps respectively. The results showed that the utilisation of non-ESL considered is dependent on the household income. On the other hand, LED lamp utilisation shows a moderate dependency; 83% of the respondents were unaware of government policy on non-ESLs and 24% chose market availability of non-ESL as motivation for utilisation; 46% of the respondents chose cheap cost as motivation. Thus, the household economic status, lack of policy implementation, availability and cheap cost of non-ESL in the Nigerian market can be seen to have contributed to the sustained utilisation of incandescent lamps in the country. About 77% of lamps sampled (non-ESLs 13% and CFL 64%) can be replaced with LED. The results showed that Nigeria has great opportunities to contribute to global CO2 emissions reduction possible form the eradication of non-ESL in the country.
Abstract: In this study, the reasons behind sustained utilisation of non-energy saving lamps (ESLs) in Nigeria vis-à-vis global lamps utilisation and environmental impacts of using non-ESLs was examined. The study was conducted via an online questionnaire using a qualitative research approach to survey 62 randomly selected apartments in the six geopolitical ...
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Evaluation of Bio-Fuel Characteristics of Pyrolytic Oil Produced from Gmelina arborea, and Cordia millenii Sawdust
Rotowa Odunayo James,
Adegoke Idowu Abimbola
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
80-89
Received:
26 June 2022
Accepted:
27 July 2022
Published:
14 September 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.15
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Abstract: Pyrolysis is that the thermal decomposition of biomass into liquids, gases, and char (solid residue) within the absence of oxygen. Pyrolytic products are also used as fuels, with or without prior upgrading, or they could be utilized as feedstock for chemical or material industries. Bio-oil was produced from sawdust of Gmelina arborea, and Cordia millenii in an exceedingly fixed-bed slow pyrolysis reactor under two temperature regimes (500°C and 600°C). The bio-oil produced was characterized by proximate analysis, CHN-elemental analysis, pH in solution, bomb calorimetric for higher heating value. The results of the proximate analysis revealed that the fixed carbon content) within the bio-oil samples strongly trusted the intensity of the thermal treatment (i.e. higher temperatures and longer residence times within the pyrolysis process). the actual yield in fixed carbon values ranged from 25.00 to 61.67% recorded in Gmelina arborea and 23.33 to 58.33, recorded for Cordia milenii. The results of the study shows that there is no significant difference between the chosen sawmill wood residues used at different temperature range. High percentage ash content of 40.00 it had been recorded in Gmelina arborea at lower temperature of 500°C, while Cordia milenii has the lower mean percentage ash content of 31.67% at lower temperature of 500°C and least percentage average of 21.67% at higher temperature of 600°C. The norm for percentage of volatile matter ranged from 20.00 to 45.00 try to 13.33 to 35.00% which indicated that Cordia milenii has higher mean percentage volatile matter at 500°C while Gmelina arborea at 600°C has the tiniest amount mean percentage volatile matter. The results of the calorific value revealed the upper and lower mean for the heating value of the bio-oil which ranged from 23083.22 to 26725.74, and 20305.98 to 25637.17 (Kj/kg) for Cordia milenii and Gmelina arborea at 500°C and 600°C respectively. The ultimate analysis showed the variations within the basic composition of the chosen sawmill wood residues used. The FT-IR spectra of bio-oil samples obtained from different temperatures exhibited identical peaks but these spectra differed within the relative intensity of some bands.
Abstract: Pyrolysis is that the thermal decomposition of biomass into liquids, gases, and char (solid residue) within the absence of oxygen. Pyrolytic products are also used as fuels, with or without prior upgrading, or they could be utilized as feedstock for chemical or material industries. Bio-oil was produced from sawdust of Gmelina arborea, and Cordia mi...
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Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystals from Water Hyacinth Using Acid Hydrolysis
Muluneh Ayalew Balcha,
Girma Gonfa Hunde,
Muleta Ali Wakjira,
Nedumaran Balasubramanian
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
90-101
Received:
14 August 2022
Accepted:
16 September 2022
Published:
29 September 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.16
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Abstract: Water hyacinth (WH) is a widespread aquatic plant with extremely high growth rate which pose a threat in the past and great challenge due to its ability to rapidly cover the whole water body, leading to phytoplankton. Biological, physical and chemical methods have been tried resulting into high cost and labor requirements, for the control and eradication of this plant from water bodies. The aim of this study was to utilize this plant for production of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) using hydrolysis with sulphuric acid at varying values of reaction temperature, time and acid concentration. Pre-treatment steps such as soxhlet extraction, alkaline treatment and bleaching were performed for successful isolation of cellulose for acid hydrolysis. After acid hydrolysis, purified dispersion of CNCs was obtained using successive centrifugation, dialysis and ultra-sonication. The effect of process parameters on the yield of CNCs was evaluated and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The raw WH, freeze dried cellulose and CNCs samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation, differential scanning calorimetry and particle size analyzer. It was found that the whisker-shaped structured CNCs was isolated with an average diameter of 102.6 nm and showing high thermal stability. It was also observed that the non-cellulosic components were successfully removed and the crystallinity index as well as crystal thickness of the sample was improved after each treatment. The yield of CNCs was affected by selected process parameters and the maximum yield of 37.72% was obtained at 50°C, 35 min and 54% acid concentration and optimized to 38.4057%.
Abstract: Water hyacinth (WH) is a widespread aquatic plant with extremely high growth rate which pose a threat in the past and great challenge due to its ability to rapidly cover the whole water body, leading to phytoplankton. Biological, physical and chemical methods have been tried resulting into high cost and labor requirements, for the control and eradi...
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Study on the Application of Grass Resources in Forest Products Industry
Xiaoyu Chen,
Fengyun Chen,
Bo Zhang,
Yifu Yuan
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
102-106
Received:
5 September 2022
Accepted:
21 September 2022
Published:
29 September 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.17
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Abstract: The paper industry is an important basic raw material industry closely related to the national economy and social development and has the characteristics of sustainable development. At the same time, it has the characteristics of renewable raw materials, recyclable products and recyclable main production chemicals. It has a unique natural green color attribute. The paper industry includes pulp manufacturing industry, paper manufacturing industry (including machine-made paper and paperboard, handmade paper and processed paper), and paper product manufacturing industry. The consumption of paper is directly or indirectly affected by various fields of the whole society and is closely related to the national economic security. The consumption level of paper and paperboard is an important indicator of a country's economy and civilization. Paper import has become the third largest foreign exchange consuming industry after petrochemical and steel industries. There is a huge development space for the domestic paper industry, and the excessive reliance on fiber raw materials has become the bottleneck of industrial development. Taking the paper industry as an example, this paper introduces the current situation and problems of the domestic paper industry, and the application of grass resources in the paper industry. For a long time to come, grass resources will still play an important role in the raw materials of China's paper industry. The absolute amount of non-wood fiber pulp will continue to rise gradually. The utilization of non-wood fiber paper resources in the development of China's paper industry cannot be ignored.
Abstract: The paper industry is an important basic raw material industry closely related to the national economy and social development and has the characteristics of sustainable development. At the same time, it has the characteristics of renewable raw materials, recyclable products and recyclable main production chemicals. It has a unique natural green col...
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Study on the Structure of Forest Products Industry and Its Impact on Ecological Environment
Xiaoyu Chen,
Peihong Liu,
Yifu Yuan
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2022
Pages:
107-110
Received:
5 September 2022
Accepted:
21 September 2022
Published:
29 September 2022
DOI:
10.11648/j.jeece.20220703.18
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Abstract: The forest product industry is the main economic pillar of forestry development. However, the industrial concentration of China's forest product industry is obviously low, and there is a lack of some leading enterprises with particularly strong competitiveness. The development trend of most of the forest product industries is basically the same, the content of the industrial structure is relatively consistent, and the characteristics are few. All localities have failed to form a unique industrial layout and development direction. The low industrial concentration and the high similarity of the industrial structure bring about low-level repeated construction and excessive competition, increase the environmental pollution load and control difficulty, and lead to the aggravation of the ecological environment pressure. The resulting ecological environment problem is that the plywood production is too large, which may further worsen the severe situation of natural forest over cutting in China, and aggravate the existing water and soil loss and ecological damage. The production and development of particleboard and fiberboard with abundant raw materials are small in scale, few in variety, and lack of deep processing. The application fields are severely restricted, and the forest resources are not efficiently utilized, causing huge waste and polluting the environment. This paper analyzes the structure of China's forest products industry and its impact on the environment. According to the requirements of the current global environmental protection trend for the development of the world's forest industry technology, the direction and some ways of the structural adjustment of China's forest industry were put forward.
Abstract: The forest product industry is the main economic pillar of forestry development. However, the industrial concentration of China's forest product industry is obviously low, and there is a lack of some leading enterprises with particularly strong competitiveness. The development trend of most of the forest product industries is basically the same, th...
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