4161 research outputs found
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The University of Coimbra’s Astronomy Geophysics and Observatories: an illustrated history for middle and secondary students
No full textRESUMO: O Projeto ‘O Instituto Geofísico da Universidade de Coimbra: História e Património das Ciências da Terra e do Ambiente em Portugal’ (HISTIGUC) envolveu professores e alunos dos ensinos básico e secundário em atividades relacionadas com a história da ciência entre os anos de 2018 e 2023. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever uma dessas atividades que envolveu professores e alunos no desenho de vários episódios históricos da vida científica dos Observatórios da Terra e do Espaço
da Universidade de Coimbra, com o objetivo de ilustrar um livro sobre a história destes dois estabelecimentos científicos. Os trabalhos dos alunos foram desenvolvidos durante os anos letivos 2021/2022 e 2022/2023 e culminaram na elaboração de um e-book havendo planos futuros para publicar uma versão em papel.ABSTRACT: ‘The Geophysical Institute of University of Coimbra: History and Heritage of the Earth and Environment Sciences in Portugal’ (HISTIGUC) Project engaged lower and upper secondary school teachers and students in activities related to the history of science between 2018 and 2023. This article aims to describe one of these activities that involved teachers and students in drawing several historical episodes of the scientific life of the Earth and Space Observatories of the University of Coimbra to illustrate a book about the history of these two scientific establishments. The development of this activity took place in two phases. Firstly, researchers
from the HISTIGUC Project selected and wrote a significant set of 18 short texts. These texts aimed to portray central and unavoidable historical episodes at the Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory of the University of Coimbra (OGAUC) over the years. In the second phase, two Art teachers were challenged to collaborate with their students to illustrate these brief historical accounts. This partnership between historical research and artistic expression allowed a multifaceted and enriching method for historical narrative and STEAM approach. The students’ work was developed during the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 school years and ended in the creation an
e-book with plans to publish a paper version
Ecogeodidactic resource - A circular path for natural stone wastes: Didactic interest, economic potential and safety assessment proposal
No full textABSTRACT: This research project integrates Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Quality Education (SDG4) and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG12), and involves Education Sciences, Geosciences, and (Eco)Design. The project aims to create an ecogeodidactic resource that includes both physical and theoretical
components, pedagogical strategies, and teacher training, while incorporating inputs from children and the educational community. The methodologies of action-research and cocreation have been adopted, focusing specifically on Environmental Education for Sustainability within the Geosciences (mineral resources and geological heritage). The project seeks to revalue stone waste from slab processing, by developing a high-value by-product. During the pilot phase, stone pieces (“geoelements”) were selected for interaction with preschool children, and a prototype was created to be installed in a kindergarten to monitor its impact. This resulted in a validation framework, that allowed for the discussion of the geodidactic interest, and the economic potential of this Project, as well as the definition of the initial guidelines for assessing their safety
Alternative feedstocks for high-quality biodiesel: Lipid production from eucalyptus bark hydrolysate by Yarrowia lipolytica W29 using different cultivation modes
No full textABSTRACT: Microbial lipids produced by yeasts from lignocellulosic biomass are a promising feedstock for the biodiesel industry, providing a renewable energy source as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This study investigated the potential of Yarrowia lipolytica W29 to produce lipid-rich biomass from undetoxified sugar-concentrated eucalyptus bark hydrolysate (EBH). The lipid concentrations achieved in batch cultures (13.4 g L-1) were the highest for wild-type Y. lipolytica strains in lignocellulosic hydrolysates. Different two-stage cultivation modes (repeated batch, continuous-feeding fed-batch, and pulse fed-batch) were studied to enhance biomass and lipid production. The cell and lipid mass was higher in pulse fed-batch and continuous-feeding fed-batch cultures than batch cultures. Production of citric acid, a side product of industrial interest, was improved in the continuous-feeding fed-batch culture. Microbial lipids produced by Y. lipolytica W29 were highly unsaturated and mainly composed of oleic acid (50% to 53%). The estimated properties of the biodiesel that would be obtained from these intracellular lipids would meet the international biodiesel standards EN 14214 and ASTM D6751. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using EBH for Y. lipolytica lipid production and promotes the sustainable production of high-quality biodiesel from lignocellulosic feedstocks
Geomorphological sites in the northern domains of the Ossa Morena Zone (Portugal): characterize aiming the promotion
No full textRESUMO: O património natural tem vindo a ganhar cada vez maior importância na ótica do ordenamento do território e do turismo de natureza. Este trabalho caracteriza oito sítios de interesse geomorfológico dos domínios setentrionais da Zona Ossa Morena (Alentejo), visando expor o seu valor científico, educativo, cénico e turístico, bem como contribuir para a valorização do território e a sua geoconservação. Seis sítios panorâmicos permitem abordar e interpretar as características dos planaltos de Estremoz e Évora e as formas de relevo que deles se destacam, devido à ação da meteorização sobre as distintas litologias, mas também da tectónica cenozoica. De entre os outros locais, um ilustra um caso de drenagem antecedente e um último evidencia as condicionantes tectónicas na evolução geomorfológica do rio Guadiana.ABSTRACT: Natural heritage has been gaining increasing importance from the perspective of land use planning and nature tourism. This work characterizes eight geomorphological sites of the northern domains of the Ossa Morena Zone (Alentejo), aiming to expose their scientific, educational, scenic and touristic value, as well as to support the enhancement of the territory and its geoconservation. Six panoramic sites allow to approach and interpret the features of the Estremoz and Évora plateaus and the landforms that stand out from them, due to the interaction between lithology and climate, but also from Cenozoic tectonics. Another site illustrates a case of antecedent drainage, and a final one highlights the tectonic constraints in the geomorphological evolution of the Guadiana River
New Modified SPEEK-Based Proton Exchange Membranes
No full textABSTRACT: A decarbonized society demands cleaner and sustainable energy sources based on well-established or emerging technologies with the potential to make a significant contribution to energy storage and conversion, such as batteries, fuel cells and water and/or CO2 electrolyzers. The performance of these electrochemical devices relies on key components such as their separators/ion-exchange membranes. The most common commercial membrane, Nafion (R), has several technological limitations. In this study, it is proposed the incorporation of bisphosphonic acid (BP) dopants into membrane matrices to improve their properties. Following this strategy, we prepared new membranes based on sulfonated poly(etheretherketone) (SPEEK) polymer, a reliable and effective alternative membrane polymer, through the incorporation of the BP dopants, to obtain low-cost membranes with improved properties. These membranes were structural, thermal and morphological, characterized by AT-FTIR, TGA and SEM. Their proton conductivity was evaluated over a temperature range between 30 degrees C and 60 degrees C, using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, and their stability during this process was also observed. The best proton conductivity was observed for the SPEEK membrane doped with BP1 at 2.0 wt% load at 60 degrees C, with a proton conduction of 226 mS cm-1
Exploring the Offshore Wind and Wave Generation Complementarity in Portugal for a Sustainable and Resilient Power System [Resumo]
No full textABSTRACT: Exploring variable energy sources generation complementarity can, among several benefits, help in the reduction of the negative impacts of variability from individual sources, and lower the system’s flexibility requirements. This study focuses on the complementarity between offshore wind and wave energy aiming to identify its overall value to the power system. Using Portugal as a case study, this work examines two offshore regions of the Plan for the Allocation of Offshore Renewable Energy in Portugal using standard approaches to assess the level of complementarity. The findings show a clear seasonal mismatch in the summer between wind and wave energy, which supports their complementary nature and helps smooth out seasonal fluctuations in offshore renewable generation. The results indicate that wave energy brings value to diversifying the offshore energy mix. When compared with onshore renewable generation, the combined use of offshore wind and wave power significantly enhances the stability of energy supply, reduces extreme events, which can contribute to decrease the need for additional system flexibility in future nearly 100% renewable-based power systems.COST Action CA20109 Modenerlands, supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology
A solar panel-origin microalga, Coelastrella thermophila D14, with high potential for wastewater biotechnology
No full textABSTRACT: Extremophilic environments are rich reservoirs for discovering microorganisms with vast biotechnological potential. Among these, microalgae stand out for their pivotal role in sustainable wastewater treatment and nutrient recycling. This study introduces Coelastrella thermophile D14, a microalga isolated from a solar panel, identified through morphological studies and genomic sequencing. The genus Coelastrella has been characterized and classified as highly productive strains valuable for biofuel and bioproduct generation as well as for their ability to produce significant amounts of carotenoids. Experiments revealed the extraordinary resilience of this strain to prolonged desiccation and high-strength piggery wastewater. Notably, D14 cultivated in 10% pig effluent exhibited biostimulant properties, achieving a germination index 23% higher than the control on Lepidium sativum. In a groundbreaking development, we have successfully established an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for C. thermophila D14, optimizing key parameters for effective T-DNA transfer. This marks a pioneering achievement within the genus Coelastrella. These findings highlight the significant potential of D14 as a robust platform for future biotechnological applications, opening new opportunities for innovative solutions, especially in environmental protection and sustainable agriculture.Key points center dot First microalga from solar panel biofilm: Coelastrella sp. D14 isolated and characterized.center dot Strain D14 tolerates prolonged desiccation and grows well in piggery wastewater.center dot Stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation enables future metabolic engineering.Key points center dot First microalga from solar panel biofilm: Coelastrella sp. D14 isolated and characterized.center dot Strain D14 tolerates prolonged desiccation and grows well in piggery wastewater.center dot Stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation enables future metabolic engineering.Key points center dot First microalga from solar panel biofilm: Coelastrella sp. D14 isolated and characterized.center dot Strain D14 tolerates prolonged desiccation and grows well in piggery wastewater.center dot Stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation enables future metabolic engineering
Social Awareness as a Catalyst for Biochar Adoption in the Agricultural and Forestry Sectors
No full textABSTRACT: Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from the pyrolysis of organic matter, has garnered attention for its potential agricultural and environmental benefits, including soil improvement, enhanced crop yields and climate change mitigation. Despite its promise, biochar adoption has been hindered by limited social awareness, particularly in industrialised countries. This review explores the factors influencing biochar's acceptance in agriculture and forestry, focusing on the social aspects that affect its integration. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies on social awareness and acceptance, revealing significant barriers such as a lack of knowledge among farmers, high production costs and insufficient infrastructure. In industrialised countries, while technical research on biochar has progressed, farmers often remain unfamiliar with its benefits, and resistance to adoption is common. Studies show that social factors such as age, education level and access to funding play a crucial role in biochar adoption. Furthermore, a lack of government incentives and unclear regulatory frameworks exacerbate the challenge. Conversely, studies from lower-income countries suggest that small-scale, cost-effective biochar production systems may hold promise. The review also identifies strategies to enhance biochar's social acceptance, including targeted education programs, financial incentives and clearer regulatory standards. Despite varying levels of social awareness, the literature suggests that with increased outreach, biochar could significantly contribute to sustainable agricultural practices globally. This review underscores the need for further research into the social dimensions of biochar adoption and the implementation of policies to foster its widespread use.N/
AfricaMaVal : Mineral Potential Mapping Study of European Critical Raw Materials (ECRM) of Africa [Resumo]
No full textABSTRACT: The AfricaMaVal project, a 3.5-year initiative coordinated by the French Geological Survey (BRGM), fosters sustainable EU–Africa partnerships in the critical raw materials (CRM) sector. With 18 partners from 11 countries, it promotes responsible mineral sourcing for European industries while supporting Africa’s sustainable development. Work Package 1 (WP1), “Supply Potential,” led by the Portuguese Geological Survey (LNEG), assesses and maps African supply potential for European Critical Raw Materials (ECRM) through a harmonized, INSPIRE-compliant database. BRGM has developed machine learning (ML) algorithms for mineral resource assessment over the past 20 years, applied at scale since 2022. Within WP1, prospectivity maps for selected ECRMs were generated in ten countries, drawing on BRGM datasets, including 1:10M geological
and structural maps and over 55,000 mineral occurrences
Litostratigrafia e contexto estrutural do Terreno de Banda e da Sequência Gondwana no Noroeste do Enclave de Oecusse, Timor-Leste
No full textABSTRACT: The limited geological information of the Oecusse enclave, coupled with its geotectonic complexity, makes it difficult to comprehend its geological context. To better understand the lithostratigraphy and tectonics of the northeastern sector of this territory, a new geological map was created, utilizing the interpretation of remote sensing data and field observations. The studied area consists mainly of the Banda terranes of Asian affinity, which partially correspond to metamorphic rocks, with a Jurassic protolith and mostly Eocene metamorphic age, at the base of the Lolotoe Complex, to deposits with basin facies from the Cretaceous (Palelo Group), associated with shallow water limestones from the Eocene (Dartollu Limestones) and to an Eocene-Pliocene volcanic series (Manamas Group). These units constitute of the thrust pile of a duplex of horse thrusts of Australian affinity (Gondwana Sequence), dominated by shallow-water Triassic silts, clays and carbonates. The roof thrusts have a NW-SE orientation and are linked by left lateral tear faults NE-SW oriented.RESUMO: A escassa informação geológica do enclave de Oecusse, e a sua complexidade geotectónica, dificultam a boa compreensão do seu contexto geológico. Para melhor entender a litostratigrafia e a tectónica do sector nordeste deste território, elaborou-se nova cartografia geológica, recorrendo à interpretação de dados de deteção remota e às observações de campo. A área estudada é constituída principalmente por terrenos de Banda de afinidade asiática. Correspondem parcialmente a rochas metamórficas, com protólito jurássico e com metamorfismo de idade eocénica, na base do Complexo de Lolotoe, a depósitos com fácies de bacia do Cretácico (Grupo Palelo), associados a calcários de águas rasas do Eocénico (Calcários de Dartollu) e a uma série vulcânica do Eocénico-Pliocénico (Grupo Manamas). Estas unidades constituem os cavalgamentos-teto de um duplex de escamas de cavalgamento, de afinidade Australiana (Sequência Gondwana), dominadas por siltes, argilas e carbonatos de águas rasas do Triássico.
Os cavalgamentos-teto possuem direção NW-SE e estão conectados por falhas de desligamento esquerdo (tear faults), de orientação NE-SW.Instituto de Geociências de Timor-Leste;
COMPETE 2020 – Operational Program Competitiveness and Internationalization (project: POCI-01-0145-FEDER-006922)