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1 – 10 of 78Garima Nema and Karunamurthy K.
This study aims to provide an alternative adoption to overcome the energy crisis and environmental effluence by comparative theoretical and trial testing analysis of an innovative…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide an alternative adoption to overcome the energy crisis and environmental effluence by comparative theoretical and trial testing analysis of an innovative combined condenser unit over traditional individual condenser unit water heating systems.
Design/methodology/approach
The presented innovative new unit of the combined condenser heat pipe works efficiently through its improved idea and unique design, providing uniform heating to improve the heat transfer and, finally, the temperature of water increases without enhancing the cost. In this design, all these five evaporator units were connected with a single combined condenser unit in such a manner that after the condensation of heat transfer fluid vapour, it goes equally into the evaporator pipe.
Findings
The maximum temperature of hot water obtained from the combined condenser heating system was 60.6, 55.5 and 50.3°C at a water flow rate of 0.001, 0.002 and 0.003 kg/s, respectively. The first and second law thermodynamic efficiency of the combined condenser heating system were 55.4%, 60.5% and 89.0% and 2.6%, 3.7% and 4.1% at 0.001, 0.002 and 0.003 kg/s of water flow rates, respectively. The combined condenser heat pipe solar evacuated tube heating system promoting progressive performance is considered efficient and environment-friendly compared to the traditional condenser unit water heating system.
Originality/value
Innovative combined condenser heat pipe evacuated tube collector assembly was designed and developed for the study. A comparative theoretical and experimental energy-exergy performance analysis was performed of innovated collective condenser and traditional individual condenser heat pipe water heating system at various mass flow rate.
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Anup Kumar, Bhupendra Kumar Sharma, Bandar Bin-Mohsen and Unai Fernandez-Gamiz
A parabolic trough solar collector is an advanced concentrated solar power technology that significantly captures radiant energy. Solar power will help different sectors reach…
Abstract
Purpose
A parabolic trough solar collector is an advanced concentrated solar power technology that significantly captures radiant energy. Solar power will help different sectors reach their energy needs in areas where traditional fuels are in use. This study aims to examine the sensitivity analysis for optimizing the heat transfer and entropy generation in the Jeffrey magnetohydrodynamic hybrid nanofluid flow under the influence of motile gyrotactic microorganisms with solar radiation in the parabolic trough solar collectors. The influences of viscous dissipation and Ohmic heating are also considered in this investigation.
Design/methodology/approach
Governing partial differential equations are derived via boundary layer assumptions and nondimensionalized with the help of suitable similarity transformations. The resulting higher-order coupled ordinary differential equations are numerically investigated using the Runga-Kutta fourth-order numerical approach with the shooting technique in the computational MATLAB tool.
Findings
The numerical outcomes of influential parameters are presented graphically for velocity, temperature, entropy generation, Bejan number, drag coefficient and Nusselt number. It is observed that escalating the values of melting heat parameter and the Prandl number enhances the Nusselt number, while reverse effect is observed with an enhancement in the magnetic field parameter and bioconvection Lewis number. Increasing the magnetic field and bioconvection diffusion parameter improves the entropy and Bejan number.
Originality/value
Nanotechnology has captured the interest of researchers due to its engrossing performance and wide range of applications in heat transfer and solar energy storage. There are numerous advantages of hybrid nanofluids over traditional heat transfer fluids. In addition, the upswing suspension of the motile gyrotactic microorganisms improves the hybrid nanofluid stability, enhancing the performance of the solar collector. The use of solar energy reduces the industry’s dependency on fossil fuels.
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Sumant Kumar, B.V. Rathish Kumar, S.V.S.S.N.V.G. Krishna Murthy and Deepika Parmar
Thermo-magnetic convective flow analysis under the impact of thermal radiation for heat and entropy generation phenomena is an active research field for understanding the…
Abstract
Purpose
Thermo-magnetic convective flow analysis under the impact of thermal radiation for heat and entropy generation phenomena is an active research field for understanding the efficiency of thermodynamic systems in various engineering sectors. This study aims to examine the characteristics of convective heat transport and entropy generation within an inverted T-shaped porous enclosure saturated with a hybrid nanofluid under the influence of thermal radiation and magnetic field.
Design/methodology/approach
The mathematical model incorporates the Darcy-Forchheimer-Brinkmann model and considers thermal radiation in the energy balance equation. The complete mathematical model has been numerically simulated through the penalty finite element approach at varying values of flow parameters, such as Rayleigh number (Ra), Hartmann number (Ha), Darcy number (Da), radiation parameter (Rd) and porosity value (e). Furthermore, the graphical results for energy variation have been monitored through the energy-flux vector, whereas the entropy generation along with its individual components, namely, entropy generation due to heat transfer, fluid friction and magnetic field, are also presented. Furthermore, the results of the Bejan number for each component are also discussed in detail. Additionally, the concept of ecological coefficient of performance (ECOP) has also been included to analyse the thermal efficiency of the model.
Findings
The graphical analysis of results indicates that higher values of Ra, Da, e and Rd enhance the convective heat transport and entropy generation phenomena more rapidly. However, increasing Ha values have a detrimental effect due to the increasing impact of magnetic forces. Furthermore, the ECOP result suggests that the rising value of Da, e and Rd at smaller Ra show a maximum thermal efficiency of the mathematical model, which further declines as the Ra increases. Conversely, the thermal efficiency of the model improves with increasing Ha value, showing an opposite trend in ECOP.
Practical implications
Such complex porous enclosures have practical applications in engineering and science, including areas like solar power collectors, heat exchangers and electronic equipment. Furthermore, the present study of entropy generation would play a vital role in optimizing system performance, improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable engineering practices during the natural convection process.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first ever attempted detailed investigation of heat transfer and entropy generation phenomena flow parameter ranges in an inverted T-shaped porous enclosure under a uniform magnetic field and thermal radiation.
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Quang Ta Minh, Li Lin-Schilstra, Le Cong Tru, Paul T.M. Ingenbleek and Hans C.M. van Trijp
This study explores the integration of smallholder farmers into the export market in Vietnam, an emerging economy. By introducing a prospective framework, we seek to provide…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores the integration of smallholder farmers into the export market in Vietnam, an emerging economy. By introducing a prospective framework, we seek to provide insight into factors that influence this integration process.
Design/methodology/approach
This study examines the expected growth and entry of Vietnamese smallholder farmers into high-value export markets. We collected information from 200 independent farmers as well as from five local extension workers, who provided information on 50 farmers.
Findings
The study reveals that the adoption of new business models is more influential than the variables traditionally included in models of export-market integration in predicting expected growth and entry into high-value export markets. In addition, the results highlight divergent views between farmers and extension workers regarding the role of collectors, with farmers perceiving collectors as potential partners, while extension workers see them as impediments to growth.
Research limitations/implications
The prospective model presented in this study highlights the importance of policy interventions aimed at promoting new business models and addressing infrastructure and capital constraints for the sustainable transformation of agricultural sectors in emerging markets.
Originality/value
This is one of the first articles to apply a prospective approach to export-market integration and demonstrate its efficacy through an empirical study. The suggested prospective approach could facilitate the design of policies aimed at export-market integration within the context of dynamic, emerging markets.
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Subbarama Kousik Suraparaju, Arjun Singh K., Vijesh Jayan and Sendhil Kumar Natarajan
The utilisation of renewable energy sources for generating electricity and potable water is one of the most sustainable approaches in the current scenario. Therefore, the current…
Abstract
Purpose
The utilisation of renewable energy sources for generating electricity and potable water is one of the most sustainable approaches in the current scenario. Therefore, the current research aims to design and develop a novel co-generation system to address the electricity and potable water needs of rural areas.
Design/methodology/approach
The cogeneration system mainly consists of a solar parabolic dish concentrator (SPDC) system with a concentrated photo-voltaic module at the receiver for electricity generation. It is further integrated with a low-temperature thermal desalination (LTTD) system for generating potable water. Also, a novel corn cob filtration system is introduced for the pre-treatment to reduce the salt content in seawater before circulating it into the receiver of the SPDC system. The designed novel co-generation system has been numerically and experimentally tested to analyse the performance at Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry, India.
Findings
Because of the pre-treatment with a corn cob, the scale formation in the pipes of the SPDC system is significantly reduced, which enhances the efficiency of the system. It is observed that the conductivity, pH and TDS of seawater are reduced significantly after the pre-treatment by the corncob filtration system. Also, the integrated system is capable of generating 6–8 litres of potable water per day.
Originality/value
The integration of the corncob filtration system reduced the scaling formation compared to the general circulation of water in the hoses. Also, the integrated SPDC and LTTD systems are comparatively economical to generate higher yields of clean water than solar stills.
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Samrat Hansda, Anirban Chattopadhyay and Swapan K. Pandit
This study comprehensively examines entropy generation and thermosolutal performance of a ternary hybrid nanofluid in a partially active porous cabinet. The purpose of this study…
Abstract
Purpose
This study comprehensively examines entropy generation and thermosolutal performance of a ternary hybrid nanofluid in a partially active porous cabinet. The purpose of this study is to comprehend the intricate phenomena of double diffusion by investigating the dispersion behavior of Al2O3, CuO, and Ag nanoparticles in water.
Design/methodology/approach
The cabinet design consists of two horizontal walls and two curved walls with the lower border divided into a heated and concentrated region of length b and the remaining sections are adiabatic. The vertical borders are cold and low concentration, while the upper border is adiabatic. Two cavity configurations such as convex and concave are considered. A uniform porous medium is taken within the ternary hybrid nanofluid. This has been characterized by the Brinkman-extended Darcy model. Thermosolutal phenomena are governed by the Navier-Stokes equations and are solved by adopting a higher-order compact scheme.
Findings
The present study focuses on exploring the influence of several well-defined parameters, including Rayleigh number, Darcy number, Lewis number, Buoyancy ratio number, nanoparticle volume concentration and heater size. The results indicate that the ternary hybrid nanofluid outperforms both the mono and hybrid nanofluids in all considered aspects.
Originality/value
This study brings forth a significant contribution by uncovering novel flow features that have previously remained unexplored. By addressing a well-defined problem, the work provides valuable insights into the enhancement of thermal transport, with direct implications for diverse engineering devices such as solar collectors, heat exchangers and microelectronics.
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Federico Lanzalonga, Roberto Marseglia, Alberto Irace and Paolo Pietro Biancone
Our study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance decision-making processes to promote circular economy practices within the utility sector.
Abstract
Purpose
Our study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance decision-making processes to promote circular economy practices within the utility sector.
Design/methodology/approach
A unique case study of Alia Servizi Ambientali Spa, an Italian multi-utility company using AI for waste management, is analyzed using the Gioia method and semi-structured interviews.
Findings
Our study discovers the proactive role of the user in waste management processes, the importance of economic incentives to increase the usefulness of the technology and the role of AI in waste management transformation processes (e.g. glass waste).
Originality/value
The present study enhances the circular economy model (transformation, distribution and recovery), uncovering AI’s role in waste management. Finally, we inspire managers with algorithms used for data-driven decisions.
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Naveenkumar R., Shanmugam S. and Veerappan AR
The purpose of this paper is to understand the effect of basin water depth towards the cumulative distillate yield of the traditional and developed single basin double slope solar…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand the effect of basin water depth towards the cumulative distillate yield of the traditional and developed single basin double slope solar still (DSSS).
Design/methodology/approach
Modified single basin DSSS integrated with solar operated vacuum fan and external water cooled condenser was fabricated using aluminium material. During sunny season, experimental investigations have been performed in both conventional and modified DSSS at a basin water depth of 3, 6, 9 and 12 cm. Production rate and cumulative distillate yield obtained in traditional and developed DSSS at different water depths were compared and best water depth to attain the maximum productivity and cumulative distillate yield was found out.
Findings
Results indicated that both traditional and modified double SS produced maximum yield at the minimum water depth of 3 cm. Cumulative distillate yield of the developed SS was 16.39%, 18.86%, 15.22% and 17.07% higher than traditional at water depths of 3, 6, 9 and 12 cm, respectively. Cumulative distillate yield of the developed SS at 3 cm water depth was 73.17% higher than that of the traditional SS at 12 cm depth.
Originality/value
Performance evaluation of DSSS at various water depths by integrating the combined solar operated Vacuum fan and external Condenser.
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This chapter examines the potential of solar energy for the development of sustainable tourism in Croatia. Tourism is an important economic activity in the Croatian economy due to…
Abstract
This chapter examines the potential of solar energy for the development of sustainable tourism in Croatia. Tourism is an important economic activity in the Croatian economy due to the mild climate and many sunny days. Solar energy photovoltaic and thermal systems can help to support sustainable tourism, as well as increase employment and cooperation between local and national governments. This study compares best practices in solar energy for the Mediterranean countries of Italy, Spain, Cyprus, and Greece. The Mediterranean Basin is a strategic development area for the European Union, and solar energy will help to maintain its stability and high-quality standards of living.
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The purpose of this study is to determine whether the fine wine market is efficient between homogeneous lots and heterogeneous lots.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to determine whether the fine wine market is efficient between homogeneous lots and heterogeneous lots.
Design/methodology/approach
Auction price data for homogeneous (or solid) lots of fine wines was analyzed to create price prediction models. Those models were used to predict the expected auction price for the bottles within heterogeneous lots. Lastly, models were created to explain and predict the differences between expected and realized prices for heterogenous wine lots.
Findings
The results show that large inefficiencies exist. The more complex and expensive the heterogeneous lot, the greater the discount relative to what would have been realized if the bottles had been sold individually. This discount can exceed 50% of the expected auction price.
Practical implications
Heterogeneous lots may arise as a practical requirement from the auction house. Restaurant buyers probably have little interest in such lots because of the inclusion of wines the restaurant will be unable to sell. Collectors may be uniquely positioned to benefit from this price discount.
Originality/value
These results are unique in the literature, because the price dynamics of heterogeneous (or mixed) lots of fine wines have not previously been studied.
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