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Rivers as natural capital assets: a quick scoping review to assess the evidence linking river asset condition to changes in the flow of ecosystem services
Get PDFRiver managers are beginning to adopt natural capital approaches in practice. However, while it is crucial for river management, the link between river asset condition and the flow of ecosystem services is poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a Quick Scoping Review (QSR) of the research into river asset condition and ecosystem service delivery to explore the current state of knowledge. The review team developed a PICO (Population, Intervention, Control, Outcome) model to transpose the concepts of the research enquiry into a search strategy for the evidence base and used a Delphi screening exercise to prioritise a subset of literature for the narrative findings. VOSviewer was used to analyse the high‐level linguistic themes from the full list of references. This co‐designed, collaborative and objective QSR approach allowed us to examine a large body of literature in a reproducible manner while minimising bias, demonstrating best practice for evidence review that should be continuously updated, generating a ‘living evidence’ knowledge asset. The results of the review demonstrate there is some knowledge of the mechanisms linking the condition of river assets to the delivery of ecosystem services for the majority of the broad range of ecosystem services analysed, with the exception of some of the cultural services, where comparatively fewer studies explore this link. However, a clear understanding of the quantitative evidence of the relationships between condition and ecosystem service delivery is missing for all of the ecosystem services. This gap stems from a lack of standardised methodologies used across the studies and a focus on a narrow range of definitions of condition. The gap needs to be addressed in future research on the topic, and a first step is to adopt more standardised indicators of river asset condition.This study was supported by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, UK Government.River Research and Application
Unifying nucleation and crystal growth mechanisms in membrane crystallisation
Get PDFWhile several mechanisms have been proposed to describe crystallisation processes in membrane distillation, it has not been possible to provide a definitive description since the nucleation kinetics are difficult to measure. This study therefore introduced non-invasive techniques to measure induction time within two discrete domains (the membrane surface and bulk solution) and was complemented by the introduction of a modified power law relation between supersaturation and induction time, that enables mass and heat transfer processes in the boundary layer to be directly related to classical nucleation theory (CNT). Temperature (T, 45–60 °C) and temperature difference (ΔT, 15–30 °C) were used to adjust boundary layer properties, which established a log-linear relation between the nucleation rate and the supersaturation level in the boundary layer at induction, which is characteristic of CNT. Crystal size distribution analysis demonstrated how nucleation rate and crystal growth rate could be adjusted using ΔT and T respectively. Consequently, ΔT and T can be used collectively to fix the supersaturation set point within the boundary layer to achieve the preferred crystal morphology. However, at higher supersaturation levels, scaling was observed. Discrimination of the primary nucleation mechanisms, using measured induction times, revealed scaling to be formed homogeneously, which indicates exposure of the pores to extremely high supersaturation levels. Morphological analysis of scaling indicated growth to be dominated by secondary nucleation mechanisms, that resulted in a habit that is distinctive from the crystal phase formed in the bulk solution. From this analysis, a critical supersaturation threshold was identified, below which kinetically controlled scaling can be ‘switched-off’, leaving crystals to form solely in the bulk solution comprising the preferred cubic morphology. This study serves to unify understanding on nucleation and growth mechanisms to enhance control over crystallisation in membrane systems.This research was financially supported by European Research Council Starting Grant 714080, ‘Sustainable chemical alternatives for reuse in the circular economy’ (SCARCE).Journal of Membrane Scienc
Navigating the landscape through digital human resource management: an initiative to achieve sustainable practices
Get PDFThe adoption of Digital Human Resource Management (DHRM) is increasing exponentially in the present market landscape; organizations are curious to digitalize human resource practices and enhance organizational performance. The purpose of the presented research is to assess various factors impacting DHRM adoption. The presented study is grounded in social exchange theory and dynamic capability theory. The survey instrument was developed using a literature review. Data from 269 respondents was collected, and Structural Equation Modeling was used to analyze the data. The research investigated the role of DHRM in achieving organizational performance. Furthermore, the role of sustainable Human Resource Practices (SHRP) is examined as a mediating variable. Also, the impact of Employee Engagement is analyzed on organizational performance. Moreover, the role of Management Support is analyzed to assess the relationship between DHRM, SHRP, and Employee Engagement (EENG). The result indicates that external environmental factors significantly impact DHRM practices. Also, SHRP partially mediates the association between DHRM and EENG. DHRM enables professionals to analyze real-time data, allowing managers to make informed decisions. In today's globalized scenario, the emergence of DHRM concept helps to automate and streamline Human Resource (HR) tasks, including performance management, recruitment, training, and appraisal, which eventually help to attain a sustainable competitive advantage. As found in existing literature, the DHRM domain is novel, and more empirical studies must investigate crucial aspects affecting DHRM adoption. Therefore, this study focuses on bridging the identified gaps.Sustainable Future
A review of diffuse interface-capturing methods for compressible multiphase flows
Get PDFThis article belongs to the Special Issue Compressible FlowsThis paper discusses in detail the classification, historical development, and application of diffuse interface-capturing models (DIMs) for compressible multiphase flows. The work begins with an overview of the development of DIMs, highlighting important contributions and key moments from classical studies to contemporary advances. The theoretical foundations and computational methods of the diffuse interface method are outlined for the full models and the reduced models or sub-models. Some of the difficulties encountered when using DIMs for multiphase flow modelling are also discussed.This research is partly financially supported by the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF), Nigeria through grant number PTDF/ED/OSS/PHD/EMA/1591/19, https://ptdf.gov.ng for the first author’s PhD studies.Fluid
Impact monitor framework: development and implementation of a collaborative framework for aviation impact assessment
Get PDFThe development and implementation of a collaborative framework for aviation impact assessment studies is presented. The focus is on which technologies can be used to enable the collaborative aspect, including the use of a common data model, the secure transfer of data between domain experts in different locations, and the automated execution of impact assessment workflows. It is demonstrated how the selected technologies can be extended to meet the requirements of air transport systems assessment and how they can be integrated into a common framework. The results of the developments are discussed in terms of their technical capabilities and the lessons learned from their practical use. The proposed framework shows that collaborative impact assessment studies can be conducted efficiently and securely. This forms the basis for three application studies in the same research project.This research was funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation program (grant agreement no. 101097011).14th EASN International ConferenceEngineering Proceeding
Assessing advanced propulsion systems using the impact monitor framework
Get PDFPresented in this paper is the Impact Monitor framework and interactive Dashboard Application (DA) validated through a use case, focusing on investigating the viability and competitiveness of future propulsion architectures for next-generation aircraft concepts. This paper presents a novel collaborative framework for integrated aircraft-level assessments, focusing on secure, remote workflows that protect intellectual property (IP) while enabling comprehensive and automated analyses. The research addresses a key gap in the aerospace domain: the seamless matching and sizing of aircraft engines within an automated workflow that integrates multiple tools and facilitates real-time data exchanges. Specifically, thrust requirements are iteratively shared between aircraft and engine modeling environments for synchronized sizing. Subsequently, the fully defined aircraft data are transferred to other tools for trajectory analysis and emissions and other assessments. The Impact Monitor framework and Dashboard Application demonstrate improved efficiency and data security, promoting effective collaboration across institutions and industry partners.This research was funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation program (grant agreement no. 101097011).The 14th EASN International ConferenceEngineering Proceeding
Filament fabrication and fdm 3D printing of pla/biopbs-based composite materials for advanced sustainable manufacturing applications
Get PDFWith the limited range of commercially viable biobased and biodegradable
filament materials available for fused deposition modelling (FDM)-based additive
manufacturing (AM), this work aims to advance the knowledge and potential of
sustainable polymer-based materials for 3D printing (3DP) applications. This
work investigates polymer phase changes in 80 wt.% poly lactic acid (PLA)/20
wt.% biobased polybutylene succinate (BioPBS)-based blends after a direct or
two-step filament fabrication process. 3DP filaments made of 80 wt.% PLA /20
wt.% BioPBS blends and their nanocomposites containing either hydrophilic
bentonite nano clay (HbnC) or reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at 1 part per
hundred resins (phr) are compared for polymer phase properties and rheological
behaviour. Subsequently, ‘Power law’ and ‘Arrhenius’ models are combined to
develop complex viscosity master-curves as a predictive model for each material
formulation; while each fabricated filament is applied with developed 3D printing
strategies to produce tensile and interlayer-bond test materials.
Findings show that between the two filament fabrication methods, the multi-step
filament fabrication route causes a higher PLA phase crystallinity of about 27%.
However, the multi-step processing route and inclusion of rGO in the
PLA80/BioPBS20 material matrix increases PLA crystallinity to about 34%.
Moreover, rGO is found to limit the recrystallization of the BioPBS phase.
Furthermore, following a successful development of complex viscosity master
curve models for PLA80/BioPBS20-based formulations, tensile-fractured 3D-
printed parts were also found to show an improved compatibilization of the
immiscible PLA and BioPBS phases upon addition of either nanomaterial, hence
offering a promising outlook for the use of PLA80/BioPBS20-based materials for
sustainable and multifunctional part productions.PhD in Manufacturin
Evaluation of pre-driver education interventions using the Theory of Planned Behaviour
Get PDFYoung drivers are at disproportional risk of death and serious injury, especially
within the first 6–12 months of licensure. Pre-driver education interventions are
typically provided to young people, between the ages of 16–18, who have not
passed their driving test but maybe learning to drive. Using the Theory of Planned
Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991), the role and potential of pre-driver education to support
young and novice driver safety is evaluated with reference to the literature and a
negatively framed fear appeal testimonial intervention called Safe Drive Stay
Alive (SDSA) Surrey. The results conclude that only small, short-term effects on
antecedents to behaviour (i.e., attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural
control and intentions) have been found using this approach. A positively framed,
theoretically grounded intervention called DriveFit was designed and evaluated
with a cluster Randomised Controlled Trial conducted with 22 schools/colleges in
Devon, UK. DriveFit consisted of a 40-minute film delivered in the classroom
followed by a 45-minute online facilitated workshop delivered within two-weeks
of watching the film, which employed active learning components. The film was
delivered in a talk show style, with expert guests providing demonstrations,
information and tips. The workshop was delivered by a professional facilitator,
using the ORID (Objective; Reflective; Interpretive and Decisional) focused
conversation framework and encouraged participants to commit ‘if-then’
implementation intentions to postcards to retain after the workshop. Small, but
longer lasting and more significant effects were found at 8–10 weeks post-
intervention for DriveFit, which was developed using the Theory of Planned
Behaviour and Behaviour Change Techniques (BCTS). This comparison of a
positively and negatively framed pre-driver intervention has not been conducted
previously. Results are discussed with reference to the use of active learning
approaches and BCTs for pre-driver interventions. Future research should
consider whether pre-driver interventions can lead to road safety improvements
for this vulnerable group through applying the blueprint for developing and
evaluating road safety education demonstrated within this thesis research.PhD in Aerospac
SLCA Literature Review Data
No full textSocial Life Cycle Assessment (SLCA) has emerged as a crucial element in sustainability discussions, gaining traction in academic research and industry practices. In response to increasing consumer awareness, governmental regulations, and corporate responsibility, sustainable production models have been widely adopted, influencing engineering projects to address not only environmental but also social impacts. This systematic review aims to explore the application of SLCA within the engineering field, focusing on key trends, methodologies, and challenges engineers face when implementing SLCA. To achieve this purpose, 196 peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2024 were analysed through bibliometric and content analysis. The results reveal an increasing trend in SLCA research, with key contributions from energy, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering fields. Despite its growing relevance, several methodological challenges persist, including a lack of standardisation, data availability issues, and difficulties in integrating SLCA with environmental and economic assessments. The findings of this research can facilitate academic researchers, industrial managers, and policymakers in implementing SLCA practices in engineering applications for a comprehensive sustainability assessment.Innovate U
Techno-economic analysis of peer to peer energy trading with electric vehicles
Get PDFOne of the most promising technologies of reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the
application of electric vehicles (EVs). Despite deliberated efforts by governments with
various encouraging policies to promote EV uptakes, the numbers of EVs have not
increased as quickly as expected. The growth of EV numbers is hindered by cost,
accessibility of charging infrastructures and range anxiety.
P2P EV charging might be one of the solutions to mitigate these barriers to promote EV
uptakes. P2P EV charging might be able to reduce running costs of EVs, to provide more
charging infrastructures via obtaining energy from another individual EVs instead of
power grid, and to encourage the installation of P2P charging infrastructures.
However, there have not been much work in the literature on the economic benefit
analysis of P2P EV charging. The economic analysis is extremely important at this stage
for relevant stakeholders (such as power Distributed Network Operators, EV charging
infrastructure planner, Charge Point Operators).
In order to carry out the economic benefit analysis, this thesis took use of the main thought
of activity-based model (ABM) to simulate and estimate EV batteries’ remaining energy
after daily travel, and then modified the supply demand ratio (SDR) P2P pricing model for
trading prices calculation. The new combination of above two steps was unique and
efficient for the calculation of P2P energy trading with EVs. This work also adopted Monte
Carlo method using large number of simulations to reduce errors brought by the
randomness of simulation cases. The economic benefits of EV energy buyers and sellers
were evaluated at different supply and demand scenarios. The results showed that, with
the consideration of tariff difference between daytime charging and night charging
(Economy 7 tariff) only, P2P EV charging is able to bring energy saving for EV energy
buyers up to £3,32/month and bring energy income for EV energy sellers up to
£5.48/month. Those reduced electricity costs, from P2P energy trading, although limited,
would also encourage people’s purchasing enthusiasm toward EVs, which would
consequently help the uptakes of EVs in UK.
As P2P energy trading is a relevant new research area, this is an initial economic analysis
of P2P EV charging. There are some limitations, e.g. the degradation of batteries,
adoption of other P2P pricing models and EV charging from local renewable generators,
etc. have not been considered. These will be carried out in future work in this areaLao, Liyun - Associate SupervisorMSc by Research in Energy and Powe