iRASD Journal of Energy & Environment
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Optimized Intelligent Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System for Maximum Energy Efficiency
Full text linkThe main aim of this paper is to design dual-axis auto tracking system for the utilization of solar energy to maximize power efficiency and optimizing solar radiation capture. By constantly adjusting the direction of solar panels, the system significantly improves energy harvesting and boosts overall efficiency, marking a significant advancement in renewable energy technology. The evolution of dual-axis tracking systems describes a transformative approach to solar energy optimization by dynamically aligning photovoltaic panels with the sun’s movement. The main aim of this paper is also to maximize energy capture and improving efficiency by design, implementation and performance evaluation of a dual-axis solar tracking system. The system tracks the sun\u27s azimuthal and altitudinal shifts throughout the day using precision sensors and adaptive control algorithms to guarantee ideal panel alignment. A sturdy mechanical framework, efficient actuation mechanisms, and real-time monitoring interfaces form the foundation of the system, enabling reliable operation under varying environmental conditions. Experimental results indicated an increase in solar energy collection, with efficiency gains of up to 30% compared to fixed solar panel setups. These results findings emphasize the massive potential of dual-axis tracking systems in advancing renewable energy solutions, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable solar energy utilization
Upgradation in Physio-Chemical Characteristics and Thermal Behaviour of Thar Coal Subjected to Torrefaction
Full text linkThis study explores the improvement in physiochemical attributes, thermal behavior, and combustion characteristics of low-rank Thar coal through torrefaction, a thermal pretreatment process. Thar coal samples were torrefied at five temperatures (200, 225, 250, 275, and 300°C) for two residence times (30 and 60 minutes). The study assessed changes in proximate and ultimate composition, calorific value, energy density and combustion traits of untreated and torrefied coal using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Results indicated slight improvement at low torrefaction temperatures (200-225°C), while higher temperatures (275-300°C) significantly enhanced fuel properties. Key findings include increased fixed carbon, reduced moisture and volatile matter, and higher heating value (HHV). The TGA graph demonstrated that torrefied coal has improved fuel properties compared to raw coal samples. The derivative thermogravimetric curve (DTG) shifted upward, signifying a change in peak (Tm) and decomposition temperatures along with an increased torrefaction temperature. The samples torrefied at 300°C for 60 minutes yielded best results, showing improved ignition (Ti) and burnout temperatures (Tb) and reduced emissions. This research focuses on torrefaction as a potential technique for improving the quality of low-grade coals of Pakistan hence opening up opportunities for controlled energy production
A Review of the Impact of Co-Digestion Substrates on the Methane Yield
Full text linkThis review highlights the impact of anaerobic co-digestion (ACD) on improving energy recovery from biogas production systems. Various factors from selected papers were reviewed to figure out their influence on ACD performance. Such factors include Carbon/Nitrogen (C/N) ratio, biodegradability of feedstock, microbial diversity, activity, buffering capacity, and trace element concentrations. Findings show ACD significantly enhances process stability and increases methane yield by 20% to 65% compared to mono-digestion. The process shares more insights on mechanisms for addressing environmental pollution challenges as it offers alternative approaches for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite promising achievements in ACD systems, several limitations of the process still exist, requiring the attention of future studies to explore the full potential of technology. Specific areas include optimizing the mixing ratio of substrates to prevent acidification and ammonia toxicity risks that may occur during the process, hence affecting the system efficiency. Research should focus on process design and proper feedstock selection, considering innovative approaches such as bioaugmentation, supplementation with carbon compounds and nanoparticles, to improve microbial activity, process efficiency, and stability. Also, there is a need to develop predictive models that will accurately incorporate C/N ratio effects on digestion kinetics and nutrient transformation. Current models are complex, which hinders their scalability; thus, the use of machine learning could enhance model accuracy
Perceptions and Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change among Small-Scale Farmers in Mangolong Village, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Full text linkThis study employed a qualitative research approach to explore the perceptions and adaptation strategies of small-scale farmers in Mangolong Village, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions and analysed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and insights. The results revealed that social, economic and cultural factors influence adaptation to climate variability. Women emerged as key contributors in agricultural production, but they continue to face challenges such as limited access to land and lack of financial resources emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive adaptation strategies. The dominance of older farmers in agricultural practices highlighted a stronger reliance on traditional agricultural practices which are grounded in valuable indigenous knowledge. However, this may hinder the uptake of modern climate-resilient techniques. Education can also be very crucial along with indigenous knowledge exchange and social networks. The size of households also determined the adaptive capacity, especially in relation to available labour, and the economic constraints limited investing in new technologies. The farmers showed a strong attachment to their land and cultural earnings that influenced their perceptions about and reactions to the problem of climate change. The most cited adaptation interventions were cropping diversification, intercropping and adjustments to seasonal calendars. These results showed that adaptation lies in the context of complicated socio-cultural, economic, and environmental conditions. In this regard, successful adaptation should be a holistic process where integration of both indigenous knowledge systems with scientific innovation is a must. Women and other vulnerable groups need to be supported with capital so that they can acquire farming inputs and also give them the mandatory knowledge that integrates modern farming and traditional farming system
Agricultural Footprint Dynamics: Capturing the Influence of Renewable Energy, Urbanization, and Ecological Resources
Full text linkAgriculture, a cornerstone of economic prosperity, is both a contributor to and a recipient of climate change. This study investigates the factors driving the agricultural footprint, considering land use, water use, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, energy use, renewable energy consumption, urbanization growth rate, and ecological footprint components (fishing grounds, grazing land). Using principal component analysis, the study calculated an agricultural footprint index, weighting these factors. The study further estimated the impact of renewable energy consumption, urbanization growth rate, and ecological footprint components on the agricultural footprint. The stability of the model was assessed using CUSUM and CUSUM of squares calculations. The findings reveal that while renewable energy consumption and urbanization growth rate exert pressure on the agricultural footprint, ecological footprint components like fishing grounds, grazing land, and cropland contribute positively. To enhance the agricultural footprint and mitigate its environmental impact, the study proposed a multi-pronged approach: financial incentives, educational programs, consumer awareness campaigns, and the development of regulations and standards for sustainable agricultural practices. By implementing these strategies, society can promote a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector that contributes to both economic prosperity and environmental protection
Toward a Green Transition: Unravelling the Impact of Innovation, Urban Dynamics, and Economic Expansion on CO? Emissions in BRICS
Full text linkEnvironmental degradation from growing carbon dioxide (CO?) emissions now stands as a significant worldwide issue that impacts regions undergoing quick economic expansion. The BRICS nations, which include Brazil as well as Russia, India, China and South Africa, create 45% of global CO? emissions while generating 18% of world GDP, positioning them as key participants in climate discussions at the international level. A statistical analysis evaluates the permanent and temporary relationships between technological innovation and urbanization and economic growth on CO? emission levels among BRICS nations using World Development Indicators (WDI) annual data from 1990 to 2023. Results from PMG-ARDL modelling demonstrate that both technological innovation and consumption of renewable sources actively diminish CO? emission patterns during extended periods, although economic growth helps reduce emissions when certain limitations arise. The relationship between urbanization and the environment becomes difficult to predict since it worsens emissions and demonstrates the intricate relationship between progress and sustainability. According to these results, future sustainability demands immediate implementation of advanced sustainable technologies and proper urban expansion management strategies
Flood Susceptibility Assessment Using Frequency Ratio Model: A Case Study of District Ghotki and District Kashmore, Sindh, Pakistan
Full text linkIn recent years, flash floods in Ghotki and Kashmore districts in Pakistan have seriously affected both people and their ways of earning a living. Addressing challenges related to flooding means utilizing a methodology that considers both the hydrology, of water, the environment, the soil, the economy and social impacts. Flood susceptibility mapping helps inform how to control and plan floods. A bivariate probability analysis employing the frequency ratio (FR) methodology was conducted during this investigation to develop flood vulnerability assessments for Ghotki and Kashmore. A map was produced using the 130 past flood locations in the two districts. To establish the models, the data from these localities were randomly divided into 70% for model development and 30% for assessment. Among the parameters incorporated in the analysis were aspect, slope, elevation, rainfall, type of soil, use of land, proximity to roadways and rivers and NDVI and NDSI figures. How each factor affects flooding was assessed by checking its relationship with previous floods. From the analysis, scientists found that approximately 18% of the study area was classified as extremely flood susceptible, 30.9% as highly flood susceptible, 20.7% as moderately flood susceptible, 20.6% as minimal flood susceptibility and 9.8% as negligible flood susceptibility. Using the metrics from the validation set, the Foul Reader showed an accurate prediction rate of 75%. Moreover, the resulting susceptibility maps were compared to the real floods of 2010 and 2022, showing that the model reliably predicts flood-prone areas. As a result, the FR model is demonstrated to support the activities of governmental organizations, administrators and policy-makers in preventing and managing floods in the region
Climate Change Impacts on the Indus River Basin: Hydrology, Water Quality, and Treaty Implications
Full text linkThe Indus River is highly sensitive to climate variability because most of its flow depends on Himalayan snow and glacier melt as well as monsoon rains. Climate change induces shifts in precipitation patterns, accelerating glacier retreat, and increasing the frequency of floods and droughts in the basin. The objective of this study was to analyze the quality of the Indus water and to assess the effects of climate on it, i.e. how changes in climate affect the hydrological cycle, glacier dynamics and water quality in the Indus basin. Using field data from the Kunar and Kabul rivers (tributaries of the Indus) and a review of climate impacts, significant regional differences in water quality parameters were noted and climate-induced hazards (e.g. floods, droughts, salinity intrusion, ecosystem stress) outlined. The implications of these changes for water security, agriculture and Indo-Pak water governance were studied. It was noted that the Indus Waters Treaty currently lacks provisions for climate-induced variability. Climate change is altering the Indus hydrological regime and water quality, posing challenges to sustainable water management and regional stability
TRNSYS-Based Performance Study of Solar-Assisted Single-Effect Absorption Cooling in Peshawar, Pakistan
Full text linkThis study presents a detailed techno-economic and thermal performance evaluation of a solar-assisted absorption cooling system optimized for the climatic conditions of Peshawar, Pakistan. Through dynamic simulations conducted over the summer season (May to September), the performance of key subsystems, including the solar collector array, auxiliary heater, thermal storage, and absorption chiller, was analyzed. Simulation results demonstrate that the system successfully maintains the chilled water outlet temperature at 7°C, with consistent cooling water and hot water temperatures of 28°C and 95°C, respectively. The system exhibits steady-state flow rates of 650 kg/hr (cooling), confirming effective hydraulic control. Under variable load conditions, the auxiliary heater responded through frequent pulsed flow patterns, achieving peak flow rates up to 49,000 kg/hr without compromising outlet temperature. Parametric analysis revealed that the optimal tilt angle for solar collectors is approximately 15°, maximizing solar fraction (SF) for both flat plate collectors (FPC) and evacuated tube collectors (ETC). For ETCs, primary energy savings (PES) (fsav,shc) of 0.49 were achieved using 560 m² of collector area and 14.9 m³ of thermal storage. The ideal storage volume was found to be 25 L/m², beyond which auxiliary energy consumption increased. Seasonal simulations revealed strong diurnal variations in cooling demand, peaking around 1.6 MW, while heating loads remained negligible, reinforcing the cooling-dominated nature of the operational period. The system\u27s average seasonal solar collector efficiency was calculated at 0.188 for FPCs and 0.52 for ETCs, underscoring the superior thermal performance of ETCs at higher driving temperatures (111°C). A minimum of 400 m² collector area was required to achieve 50% primary energy savings. These findings validate the hybrid solar-auxiliary configuration’s suitability for high-demand cooling applications in arid climates and offer design insights for optimizing collector area, storage volume, and control strategies. The results not only optimize system design for local climatic conditions but also underscore the broader potential of solar cooling technologies to mitigate urban heat, lower electricity demand, and enhance energy resilience in developing regions. These perceptions provide valuable guidance for renewable infrastructure planning and policy constitution across the same climatic regions
Improving the Hydraulic and Chemical Properties of Sandy Soil by Using a Mixture of Biochar and Clay
Full text linkIn recent years, food demand has risen due to rapid population surge. Meeting this food demand means more land is supposed to be cultivated. Yet, there are many areas in Sindh, Pakistan, particularly “Thar,” where crop yield is inadequate due to the sandy soil’s poor water holding capacity (WHC), water retention, and higher hydraulic conductivity. Thus, this study evaluates the effect of biochar-clay mixture on sandy soil to improve its hydraulic and chemical properties. This study provides positive results of applying clay at three different rates (5, 10, and 20%) in sandy soil. When clay was mixed at these rates with 5% biochar, it not only improved the hydraulic properties of soil but also its chemical properties including soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil organic matter (SOM). The experimental findings improved the sandy soil’s WHC and reduced its hydraulic conductivity. This clay and biochar mixture enhanced SOC, SOM, and Electrical Conductivity (EC) and decreased the pH in sandy soil. Thus, adding biochar and clay mixture proved to be a better soil amendment than only clay. Further investigation requires modification in biochar particle size before mixing it with the sandy soil