BioResources (E-Journal)
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The Effect of Hygroscopic Wood Structure on Some Properties of Heat Treated Products Formed with the Thermowood Method
No full textChanges were determined for the values of physical and mechanical properties resulting from hygroscopicity in some wood species after heat treatment (HT), and to reveal statistically the relationships between the properties. For this purpose, aspen (Populus tremula) and fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. bornmuelleriana) species were evaluated for weight loss (WL) during HT as well as water thickness swelling (WTS) and weight and volume change rates upon water imersion. The amounts and density values of longitudinal, radial, tangential, and volumetric contractions and expansions, static bending resistance (MOR) and static bending modulus of elasticity (MOE) were examined. From the results and correlation analysis, it was determined that while WL increased in all variations with HT, the WTS values from the HT samples in water for 24 h decreased with the increase in temperature and time, while water retention was at similar rates in all variations, including UT. At the same time, HT resulted in significant decreases in all density values and contraction and expansion values, and the dimensional stability improved. On the other hand, it was understood that HT did not negatively affect both MOR and MOE resistance values at the 180 °C and 200 °C conditions. These results showed that heat-treated wood products can be a good alternative to avoid problems caused by hygroscopicity under the influence of intense water contact
Analysis of Economic and Environmental Benefits of Agricultural Straw Preparation for Biochar Returned to the Field: A Case Study at the County Scale in China
No full textThrough field investigations and field experiments under different modes, the local cost composition and sources of income of agricultural straw carbonization and returning to the field in Xiangfen County, China, were analyzed, and an economic evaluation was carried out. The results showed that the preparation cost of biochar at the county scale was ¥ 1107/t, and it could be reduced to ¥ 507/t after excluding the straw cost. When considering only the income from yield increase, it is difficult to achieve profitability in both the mode of returning the field in batches with equal amounts and the mode of returning the field with a large dose at one time. However, when considering the combined income from yield increase, carbon sequestration, and emission reduction, the annual profit could reach up to ¥ 269/ha. If the straw is owned by farmers (the straw cost is not included), the highest annual income can reach ¥ 1241/ha. Although the upfront cost of agricultural straw carbonization and returning to the field is relatively high, in the long run, it has significant environmental benefits and economic potential in terms of increasing yields, sequestering carbon and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers
Comprehensive Evaluation of Biological Fresh Weight Yield-related Characteristics of Silage Maize (Zea mays) at Maturity Stage
No full textBiological yield and quality are critical indicators for evaluating silage corn (Zea mays). Among these, biological yield is closely associated with multiple traits of the crop. This study recorded data of 10 traits over two years for 37 silage corn varieties cultivated in hilly mountainous regions of China. Multivariate analysis revealed correlations among all 10 traits. Using correlation data, principal component analysis, cluster analysis, and ridge regression were applied to classify the 37 silage corn varieties into six distinct groups. Key findings identified plant height, ear height, greenness retention rate, and dry weight as critical variables for developing a mathematical model to evaluate silage corn yield and estimate its biological fresh weight. Results indicated that when screening for high-biological-fresh-weight silage corn varieties, priority should be given to those with longer growing periods, compact plant types, superior greenness retention, and higher dry weight. Finally, comparative analysis of biological yields of high-yielding silage corn in Sichuan Province, China, provided actionable references for optimizing silage corn cultivation in local hilly regions
Jin Opera Huhu: A Critical Sound Analysis of Cultural Representation in Conventional Jin Opera
No full textA comprehensive acoustic analysis was carried out for the huhu, a betelwood instrument from the Jin opera. Techniques included an acoustic visualiser and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). The harmonic structure, frequency distribution, and timbre quality of the instrument were investigated, focusing on the effect of the use of leather finger cuff on the sound produced. Spectral analyses revealed complex overtones and distinctive spectral patterns for different playing techniques, ranging from 324.47 to 10,277.08 Hz. Finger cuffs significantly altered the harmonic content and timbre. The study utilised high fidelity equipment to conduct multiple recordings under controlled conditions to capture subtle acoustic changes. Statistical analysis of the frequency data revealed a consistent overtone structure, while an acoustic visualiser examined the relationship between playing technique and sound intensity. The analyses emphasised how traditional playing methods (particularly fretting) affect acoustic output. By documenting the current acoustic characteristics of the huhu, this work provides insight into its musical and cultural significance, contributes to the preservation of traditional musical heritage and provides a scientific basis for understanding the unique acoustic characteristics of betel nut wood
The Ethics of Sustainability
No full textSustainability ethics is a relevant topic as we humans become more focused on the implications of “going green.” We all need to think about what sustainability means and the extent to which we need to change our individual behaviors so that its goals can be met. This editorial will explore the idea of how our ego plays a role in defining sustainable behavior and ways in which a breadth of ethical constructs can guide our thinking on what is right and what is wrong. All of us cannot give up meat or avoid flying, but all of us can engage in healthy dialogue to determine how we all can subscribe to the principles of sustainability in ethical ways, as governed by our understandings and feelings. Ultimately, we recognize ethical behavior as an ecosystem of social, environmental, and intellectual parameters which affect not only humans, but also the non-humans around us
Traditional Craft Conservation and Technological Innovation of Xuan Paper: An Exploration Applicable to Chinese Mixed-materials Art
No full textXuan paper, an essential treasure of Chinese culture, has long been the heart of calligraphy and ink painting. This paper delves into the delicate balance between preserving the traditional craft of Xuan paper and embracing the innovation of modern technology, highlighting how these advancements have transformed its production process and expanded its role in contemporary mixed-media art. The traditional methods, rooted in skilled craftsmanship and natural materials, have served as the foundation for a material that can withstand centuries of artistic expression. With the rise of modern machinery and digital printing techniques, Xuan paper has evolved to meet the demands of today’s artists, offering enhanced durability and consistency while maintaining its unique texture. The fusion of old and new not only revitalizes this ancient art form but opens new avenues in contemporary art, where Xuan paper is now integrated with diverse materials and techniques. This editorial explores how technological innovations breathe new life into Xuan paper, providing artists with fresh tools for creative expression, while ensuring that its cultural heritage remains intact. Ultimately, this exploration aims to chart a course for the sustainable future of Xuan paper, making it relevant for both traditional and modern art forms
Effect of Graphene Oxide and Biochar as Redox Mediators Addition on Photo-fermentation Biohydrogen Production
No full textThe addition of graphene oxide promotes electron transfer between microorganisms in a photo-fermentative biohydrogen production system, while biochar improves the efficiency of hydrogen production by buffering the pH. In order to improve the efficiency of biohydrogen production, the effects of two redox mediators (ROMs), biochar and graphene oxide, at different concentrations on photo-fermentation biohydrogen production were studied. The results showed that the addition of graphene oxide and biochar decreased the redox potential (ORP) of the system. The lowest ORP was -286 mV (graphene oxide) and -290 mV (biochar), which represent that the reducing power of fermentation broth increased. When the addition of graphene oxide was 150 mg/L, the cumulative biohydrogen production reached the maximum of 404 mL, which was 46.3% higher than that of the control group without graphene oxide; When biochar was added at 1 g/L, the cumulative biohydrogen production reached the maximum of 383 mL, which was 45.9% higher than that of the control group. At the same time, the cumulative biohydrogen production was fitted by Gompertz equation, indicating that the kinetic parameters were very suitable to describe the effect of the addition of graphene oxide and biochar on the biohydrogen production from corn stalks by photo-fermentation
Sawmill Residue Valorization as Adsorbent for Cd2+ from Aqueous Solution
No full textRaw sawmill wood adsorbent (RSWA) and sawmill wood biochar adsorbent (SWBA) were evaluated as eco-friendly materials for removing cadmium ions (Cd²⁺) from aqueous solutions. The sawmill waste was thermally treated, and the resulting biochar was characterized using FT-IR, SEM, and BET analyses, revealing a rough, porous structure comprising functional groups that enhance adsorption. Batch adsorption experiments demonstrated that SWBA exhibited a higher adsorption capacity (85.4 mg/g at 45 °C) compared to RSWA (78.6 mg/g at 40 °C), with equilibrium times of 180 min for SWBA and 150 min for RSWA. Adsorption efficiency was pH-dependent, with optimal removal occurring at pH 6 for SWBA and pH 5 for RSWA. Kinetic modeling confirmed that adsorption followed the pseudo-second-order model, while isotherm studies indicated a stronger correlation with the Freundlich model. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed the process to be endothermic and spontaneous. Desorption studies revealed a decline in adsorption efficiency over multiple cycles, with RSWA exhibiting slightly better desorption performance than SWBA. These findings highlight sawmill wood biochar as a cost-effective and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment, particularly in heavy metal removal
Chemical Characterization of Weathered Wood in Historical Buildings: Effects of Altitude and Façade Orientation in Rize, Türkiye
No full textThe degradation of wood in historic structures is influenced by a combination of environmental and biological factors. This study examined the chemical deterioration of wood in historical wooden houses in Rize, Türkiye, with a specific focus on the impact of altitude and facade orientation. Samples were collected from the south-facing facades of six historical buildings situated at varying elevations. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy was employed to assess the chemical changes in the wood, specifically in the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content. A comparison was made between weathered samples and a new control specimen to assess the extent of degradation. The Carbonyl Index (CI) and Lignin Index (LI) were calculated to quantify structural changes. The results revealed substantial degradation in the surface chemistry of aged wood, primarily due to photodegradation and environmental exposure. No systematic correlation was found between altitude and degradation levels, suggesting that local microclimatic factors, rather than elevation alone, predominantly influence chemical deterioration. South-facing facades exhibited greater degradation, likely due to increased exposure to UV radiation. The findings underscore the importance of understanding site-specific environmental influences in heritage conservation, providing a foundation for future restoration efforts. These results emphasized the importance of integrating chemical characterization with environmental monitoring to optimize conservation practices
Reformulation of Alkaline Copper Quat for Enhanced Copper Leaching Resistance
No full textTo ensure the environmentally safe usage of copper amine-based wood preservatives in aquatic environments, it is necessary to minimize copper leaching from treated wood. In this study, alkaline copper quat (ACQ) was reformulated to enhance resistance to copper leaching by adjusting the proportions of copper, didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), and mono-ethanolamine (Mea) solvent. The copper proportion in the formulation was decreased 40% while maintaining the total retention of active ingredients through increasing DDAC. The molar ratio of Cu to Mea in the formulation was then adjusted from 1:4 to 1:2.75. This reformulation shortened the time to copper stabilization from 15 to 6 days, and reduced cumulative copper leaching by 75%, compared to a control formulation. These fixation properties were further improved with just a 30-min hot-air post-treatment at 100 °C. Wood treated with the reformulated ACQ exhibited comparable performance in biological efficacy against fungi and termites compared to wood treated with commercial ACQ