Biochar holds the promise to tackle chronic human development issues like hunger and food insecurity, low agricultural productivity and soil depletion, deforestation and biodiversity loss, energy poverty, water pollution, air pollution and climate change. Let us have a close look at some of the most promising applications of biochar.

1. Use of biochar in animal farming

At present approx. 90% of the biochar used in Europe goes into animal farming. Different to its application to fields, a farmer will notice its effects within a few days. Whether used in feeding, litter or in slurry treatment, a farmer will quickly notice less smell. Used as a feed supplement, the incidence of diarrhoea rapidly decreases, feed intake is improved, allergies disappear, and the animals become calmer.

In Germany, researchers conducted a controlled experiment in a dairy that was experiencing a number of common health problems: reduced performance, movement disorder, fertility disorders, inflammation of the urinary bladder, viscous salivas, and diarrhoea. Animals were fed different combinations of charcoal, sauerkraut juice or humic acids over periods of 4 to 6 weeks.

Experimenters found that oral application of charcoal (from 200 to 400 g/day), sauerkraut juice and humic acids influenced the antibody levels to C. botulinum, indicating reduced gastrointestinal neurotoxin burden. They found that when the feed supplements were ended, antibody levels increased, indicating that regular feeding of charcoal and other supplements had a tonic effect on cow health.

2. Biochar as soil conditioner

In certain poor soils (mainly in the tropics), positive effects on soil fertility were seen when applying untreated biochar. These include the higher capacity of the soil to store water, aeration of the soil and the release of nutrients through raising the soil’s pH value. In temperate climates, soils tend to have humus content of over 1.5%, meaning that such effects only play a secondary role.

Indeed, fresh biochar may adsorb nutrients in the soil, causing at least in the short and medium term – a negative effect on plant growth. These are the reasons why in temperate climates biochar should only be used when first loaded with nutrients and when the char surfaces have been activated through microbial oxidation.

The best method of loading nutrients is to co-compost the char. This involves adding 10–30% biochar (by volume) to the biomass to be composted. Co-composting improves both the biochar and the compost. The resulting compost can be used as a highly efficient substitute for peat in potting soil, greenhouses, nurseries and other special cultures.

Because biochar serves as a carrier for plant nutrients, it can produce organic carbon-based fertilizers by mixing biochar with such organic waste as wool, molasses, ash, slurry and pomace. These are at least as efficient as conventional fertilizers, and have the advantage of not having the well-known adverse effects on the ecosystem. Such fertilizers prevent the leaching of nutrients, a negative aspect of conventional fertilizers. The nutrients are available as and when the plants need them. Through the stimulation of microbial symbiosis, the plant takes up the nutrients stored in the porous carbon structure and on its surfaces.

A range of organic chemicals are produced during pyrolysis. Some of these remain stuck to the pores and surfaces of the biochar and may have a role in stimulating a plant’s internal immune system, thereby increasing its resistance to pathogens. The effect on plant defence mechanisms was mainly observed when using low temperature biochars (pyrolysed at 350° to 450°C). This potential use is, however, only just now being developed and still requires a lot of research effort.

3. Biochar as construction material

The two interesting properties of biochar are its extremely low thermal conductivity and its ability to absorb water up to 6 times its weight. These properties mean that biochar is just the right material for insulating buildings and regulating humidity. In combination with clay, but also with lime and cement mortar, biochar can be added to clay at a ratio of up to 50% and replace sand in lime and cement mortars. This creates indoor plasters with excellent insulation and breathing properties, able to maintain humidity levels in a room at 45–70% in both summer and winter. This in turn prevents not just dry air, which can lead to respiratory disorders and allergies, but also dampness and air condensing on the walls, which can lead to mould developing.

As per study by the Ithaka Institute’s biochar-plaster wine cellar and seminar rooms in the Ithaka Journal. Such biochar-mud plaster adsorbs smells and toxins, a property not just benefiting smokers. Biochar-mud plasters can improve working conditions in libraries, schools, warehouses, factories and agricultural buildings.

Biochar is an efficient adsorber of electromagnetic radiation, meaning that biochar-mud plaster can prevent “electrosmog”. Biochar can also be applied to the outside walls of a building by jet-spray technique mixing it with lime. Applied at thicknesses of up to 20 cm, it is a substitute for Styrofoam insulation. Houses insulated this way become carbon sinks, while at the same time having a more healthy indoor climate. Should such a house be demolished at a later date, the biochar-mud or biochar-lime plaster can be recycled as a valuable compost additive.

4. Biochar as decontaminant

As a soil additive for soil remediation – for use in particular on former mine-works, military bases and landfill sites.

Soil substrates – Highly adsorbing and effective for plantation soil substrates for use in cleaning wastewater; in particular urban wastewater contaminated by heavy metals.

A barrier preventing pesticides getting into surface water – berms around fields and ponds can be equipped with 30-50 cm deep barriers made of biochar for filtering out pesticides.

Treating pond and lake water – biochar is good for adsorbing pesticides and fertilizers, as well as for improving water aeration.

5. Use of biochar in wastewater treatment – Our Project

The biochar grounded to a particle size of less than 1.5 mm and surface area of 600 – 1000 m²/g. The figure below is the basic representation of production of biochar for wastewater treatment.

We conducted a study for municipal wastewater which was obtained from a local municipal treatment plant. The municipal wastewater was tested for its physicochemical parameters including pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), total phosphates (TP) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) using the APHA (2005) standard methods.

Bio filtration of the municipal wastewater with biochar acting as the bio adsorbent was allowed to take place over a 5 day period noting the changes in the wastewater parameters. The municipal wastewater and the treated effluent physicochemical.

The COD concentration in the municipal wastewater decreased by 90% upon treatment with bio-char. The decrease in the COD was attributed to the enhanced removal of bio contaminants as they were passed through the biochar due to the biochar’s adsorption properties as well as the high surface area of the bio char. An 89% reduction in the TSS was observed as the bio filtration process with bio char increased from one day to five days

The TKN concentration in the wastewater decreased by 64% upon treatment with bio char as a bio filter. The TP in the wastewater decreased by 78% as the bio filtration time with biochar increase. The wastewater pH changed from being alkaline to neutral during the treatment with biochar over the 5 day period

6. Use of Biochar in Textiles

In Japan and China bamboo-based biochar are already being woven into textiles to gain better thermal and breathing properties and to reduce the development of odours through sweat. The same aim is pursued through the inclusion of biochar in shoe soles and socks.

The post Things You Should Know About the Different Uses of Biochar first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

What is the best cordless finish nailer?

A ‘finish nailer’ broadly refers to one with a 16 gauge, which is a little thicker nail than the 18 gauge brads. There can be a bit of confusion due to the fact of the higher the number of gauges, the thinner the nail will be. This is due to the number of nails that you can fit per inch (for example, 16 gauge = 16 nails per inch and 18 gauge = 18 per inch). Therefore, you need the right nail for the proper work, so that the structural integrity of the material is not splinted or harmed.

Cordless finish nailers are made by different and various reputable brands such as Dewalt, Makita and Porter-Cable. However, before you search for the best Finish nailer, it is important that you have the best table saw for woodworking too! If you want to have woodworking materials that can do the job and last for a long time, make sure to go for those that would give you value for your money.

What is the greatest advantage of Cordless Finish Nailer?

A finish nailer is a versatile commodity which can also be used for various tasks such as moulding, decorating, roofing and many other jobs. This can also move the nails from thin wooden panels to dense concrete material and other various materials.

Difference between angled and straight finish nailer

Angled finishing nailers are made to be for narrow or tight spaces project. This type of finish nailer is durable to drive more substantial gauged nails. Straight finish nailers, on the other hand, are used within open spaces, and it was built with sharper nails.

Features Of Best Cordless Finish Nailer

A cordless finish nailer is a durable and versatile tool to perform a range of tasks ranging from the installation of trim to the assembly of cabinets and furnishings. It is a reasonably robust tool that is built to drive comparatively smaller nails. Here is a great article on home newtools best cordless finish nailer

Below are the key features of the best cordless finish nailer:

1. Size and Weight

To finish work is usually a multi-day, all-day task. Which means you must hold your finish nailer device in your hand for extended periods. A cordless model doesn’t have a wired cord or pneumatic hose that you need to bring and handle with you. That lowers the stress on your wrists. Although, if your finish nailer is bulky, this might have an irreversible effect on your hand. On some models, the battery can add considerable weight to the tool. The greater the battery size, the more it will weigh and the larger it will be.

A cordless finish nailer needs to get into tighter spaces and work at odd angles compared to other nailers, so size is essential. Angled versions reduce the tool’s total height and can make use in tight spaces more straightforward. Search for a smaller, cordless finish nailer with a lighter, state-of-the-art battery that weighs as little as possible to help you continue to work for longer without hand fatigue.

2. Trigger Operation

There are two primary forms of trigger: bump fire and subsequent action. Faster is a bump-fire. You keep the pressure on the trigger and press the piston in the nail where you want to drive. This is quicker, so losing track of it is easier, and there is a higher chance of accidental shooting. A sequential operation allows you to release the trigger between the nails and press it in again before the next nail is pushed. It’s slower, but it’s a little safer and controllable.

Needless to choose either one or the other. There are many models on the market which accommodate both. And, if you’re not sure which one you want, or if there are moments when you’re going to need one, look for one that has both in features. These combination finish nailers either have some internal mechanism allowing you to switch between operating modes, or they enable you to switch triggers out. Others that will enable you to change triggers also don’t come along with the extra trigger. You’ll have to buy an extra one.

3. Quality

Although, many people believe in brand reputable when choosing tool quality. This is because a reputable company always protect their name and to do this, they keep on producing a quality product.

While there is no foolproof way to upfront predict tool quality, but reading feedback and trusting a well-known organization minimizes the risks of getting poor tool.

4. User friendly

We strongly recommend that you read reviews and check product details to find a model that will comfortable in your hands, given the simple cost of a finish nailer. This is a method that is expected to deliver reliable results depending on how you treat it. The standard of the job starts with your hand. It is believed anybody will want to choose a  non-cumbersome finish nailer.

5. Lighting

With LED light features, a finish nailer makes its way within dark spaces such as cabinets or low-light areas, like baseboards. A cordless model with LED lights will directly transmit shadowless light to the surface, so you will see what you are doing without external lighting.

6. Higher Nail Capacity

This is one of the essential features a best cordless finish nailer you have. Having higher nail capacity will assist you in concentrating on the work through the elimination of frequently nail refilled. Another benefit of higher nail capacity is that it saves time.

7. Nail Depth

Precision hitting is outstanding as firing is. Finishing nailer is expected to hit the appropriate depth of the nail. Many finishing nailers come with an adjustable depth sensor that helps you to set precision depth. So, when choosing your finishing nail to ensure it offers consistent nail depth across a variety of types of materials.

8. Jam Clearing

Tool-free jam clearing is one a great feature expected to look for in a finish nailer. Nail jam may occur at a time, and if your nailer does not possess smooth jam-free. There may be some difficulties in hunting down the nailer.

Although, jamming can be held to a minimum by keeping your nailer in place and making sure you use the right nails.

9. Warranty

An extended warranty is an indication that the manufacturer has faith in its materials and manufacturing. Search for the longest available warranty and a money-back guarantee just in case you are not satisfied with tools.

Final Word and Recommendation

Finish Nailer is commonly regarded as a technical tool, but this innovative tool has significantly changed the finishing game. This is the reason almost everybody or hobbyists are now using the device to execute their various projects. A cordless finish nailer is a versatile woodworker tool that helps to punch the nails seamlessly, and gives the woodworks a clean and finished look.

Cordless finish nailers are fantastic, and there are plenty of models available which you can select the right cordless finish nailer to suit your work needs.

The post The Features Of Best Cordless Finish Nailer first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

The best MBA admissions consultants can help you pursue top programs for renewable energy. These programs can give you both general business expertise and particular managerial abilities critical for prospering amid these ongoing shifts.

Selecting an MBA school for renewable energy management career involves multiple considerations. Apart from finding a program with courses related to energy policy, economics, and technology, it is crucial to opt for one that emphasizes sustainable development, renewable resources, and environmental management, such as one of the reputable online environmental science degree programs.

Exploring programs featuring tracks or specializations in energy management can also provide focused training on the subject matter. Furthermore, seeking internship opportunities or connecting with industry professionals can help gain practical experience.

Why Choose an MBA in Renewable Energy?

This course is an option for anybody who wishes to work in the renewable energy or power industries. To succeed as a future leader, a student requires extensive knowledge, strategic thinking, sound judgment, a global perspective, adaptability, and truthfulness. This management course may advance a student’s career and aid in developing these abilities.

Career Options for Those with an MBA in Renewable Energy

Let’s take a deeper look at a few of the most prominent management careers available to those with a green MBA.

1. Marketing and Management

Whether it’s the newest smartphone or renewable energy, individuals need to successfully market these ideas and goods to others. If you want a company to spend millions on solar PV panels or other sustainable energy sources, what arguments would you use?

Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of sustainable methods. Using your master’s degree in sustainability to promote environmental sustainability is a terrific way to put your marketing and advertising skills to work.

As per PayScale, the average compensation for a person with an MBA is $101,019.

2. Fossil Fuel Business

Fossil fuel businesses may not be considered a viable option by the general public. Yet contrary to popular belief, these businesses are keen to implement environmentally friendly policies. Oil giants like BP, ExxonMobil, and Shell have pooled their resources to support environmentally friendly initiatives.

List of the Best MBA Schools for Energy Management

Embarking on a career path centered around Energy and Natural Resources can set individuals up for success by seeking out educational institutions near thriving industry players such as those in Texas (USA), Alberta (Canada), or Scotland. That said, aspiring professionals should keep their options open because global business schools offer bespoke MBA programs focused on the energy sector and related fields.

Check out this roster for potential educational outlets if you’re interested:

1. Stanford GSB

The Stanford Graduate School of Business is renowned for its MBA program with a distinct focus on energy and natural resources. This program offers courses on energy markets, policy, and technology to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the industry. Additionally, various research centers and industry partnerships are established to further enhance the learning experience.

2. MIT Sloan

Similarly, MIT’s MBA program includes a concentration in energy and sustainability. The curriculum encompasses energy economics, policy, and technology courses while providing hands-on experience through the Energy Ventures Club and Energy Initiative.

3. McCombs School of Business

The University of Texas McCombs School of Business offers an MBA concentration in energy finance and development with courses covering renewable energy sources, financial planning, and energy policy. Moreover, the faculty has actively pursued partnerships with leading energy organizations to ensure students receive real-world perspectives.

4. Ross MBA

Another leading business school that provides high-quality sustainability education is the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Its Ross MBA program includes a track in sustainability and business that covers relevant topics such as energy management practices and sustainable enterprise models, alongside offering hands-on training through Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise.

5. Yale

Yale’s School of Management offers its students an opportunity to concentrate on studying Energy markets by offering courses covering this crucial topic along with policies and technology domains. Their Yale Center for Business provides practical training opportunities for students looking to gain experience in business management and environmental problem-solving skills.

6. Technological Institute of Oregon

One of North America’s most popular renewable energy programs is the Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree in Sustainable Energy Engineering offered by Oregon Institute of Technology. In this way, they help students create, manage, and execute green energy solutions. Math, physics, and chemistry are all covered, as well as resource management, wind energy, photovoltaics, and fuel cells, all of which make up the core curriculum.

Do Green MBA Degrees Provide Value? A Closing Remark on Sustainable Management Master’s Degrees

Is there any practical benefit to being an MBA student? An MBA in sustainability is definitely worthwhile. Several doors may be opened for you after you have your MBA. An MBA with a concentration in sustainable energy management provides you with expert knowledge in your chosen sector. It’s possible that you’ll get paid quite well for your efforts.

There is a plethora of excellent institutions offering MBA programs with a focus on sustainability. Green MBA programs are now the most distinctive indicators of green business transformation.

If you’re interested in making a difference for the planet’s future, enrolling in and completing a green MBA degree is a great first step.

The post Best MBA Programs for Renewable Energy first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

An attractive disposal method for sewage sludge is to use it as alternative fuel source in cement industry. The resultant ash is incorporated in the cement matrix. Infact, several European countries, like Germany and Switzerland, have already started adopting this practice for sewage sludge management. Sewage sludge has relatively high net calorific value of 10-20 MJ/kg as well as lower carbon dioxide emissions factor compared to coal when treated in a cement kiln.

Use of sludge in cement kilns can also tackle the problem of safe and eco-friendly disposal of sewage sludge. The cement industry accounts for almost 5 percent of anthropogenic CO₂ emissions worldwide. Treating municipal wastes in cement kilns can reduce industry’s reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

The use of sewage sludge as alternative fuel in clinker production is one of the most sustainable option for sludge waste management. Due to the high temperature in the kiln the organic content of the sewage sludge will be completely destroyed. The sludge minerals will be bound in the clinker after the burning process. The calorific value of sewage sludge depends on the organic content and on the moisture content of the sludge. Dried sewage sludge with high organic content possesses a high calorific value.  Waste coming out of sewage sludge treatment processes has a minor role as raw material substitute, due to their chemical composition.

The dried municipal sewage sludge has organic material content (ca. 40 – 45 wt %), therefore the use of this alternative fuel in clinker production will save fossil CO₂ emissions. According to IPCC default of solid biomass fuel, the dried sewage sludge CO₂ emission factor is 110 kg CO₂/GJ without consideration of biogenic content. The usage of municipal sewage sludge as fuel supports the saving of fossil fuel emission.

Sludge is usually treated before disposal to reduce water content, fermentation propensity and pathogens by making use of treatment processes like thickening, dewatering, stabilisation, disinfection and thermal drying. The sludge may undergo one or several treatments resulting in a dry solid alternative fuel of a low to medium energy content that can be used in cement industry.

The use of sewage sludge as alternative fuel is a common practice in cement plants around the world, Europe in particular. It could be an attractive business proposition for wastewater treatment plant operators and cement industry to work together to tackle the problem of sewage sludge disposal, and high energy requirements and GHGs emissions from the cement industry.

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If you’ve never heard of the term, we can’t blame you. Most people don’t go around researching the economic system they live in — let alone alternative methods of production. Still, learning about circular economy is a great way to introduce other concepts — like Zero Waste manufacturing.

Of course, before we can do all that, we have to be aware of the system we currently have. With that in mind, let’s start by talking about the cause of the waste accumulation we are dealing with today.

Is Linear Economy Outdated?

Most people know that the amount of waste production and accumulation we are fighting against was ultimately caused by our economic system. The principles of linear economy are fairly simple. We take what we need from nature, and we transform these raw materials into products, which we dispose of when they’re no longer of use. Proponents of this system assumed that the planet is capable of providing infinite resources and regenerating an infinite amount of waste.

As we now know, that is simply not the case. So the system’s goal of maximizing production and sales has become impossible to envision without also seeing the eventual consequences.

After all, to keep production cycles going, we also need to create demand. That’s why many commodities we buy nowadays fall apart so quickly. The sooner your shirt rips open at the seams, the sooner you’ll go looking for a new one. But before we start pointing fingers at the fast fashion industry, remember that the system affects all commercial enterprises.

Is There a Different Kind of Approach We Can Opt for?

The excessive production and turnover of commodities we see in the linear economy are all but guaranteed to produce an enormous amount of waste. But as any waste management expert will tell you — it’s never too late to veer toward another approach.

In recent years, many people have been considering the benefits of transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle. Basically, rather than throwing their used up and damaged items, the goal of Zero Waste is to find a way to use them again. Whether it’s composting, making bags out of ripped jeans, or turning broken pans into planters — people are having to be creative with items they would have otherwise tossed in the trash.

But while most people are familiar with the philosophy in general, not many are aware of who started Zero Waste. Believe it or not, the phrase was coined in the ‘80s. However, Daniel Knapp, one of the first people who formulated the idea of total recycling, didn’t just talk the talk. Instead, he and his wife founded a salvaging market, Urban Ore, to focus on diverting waste from their local landfill and reusing it within the community.

Over the years, their ideas inspired many others to look for ways to reduce their waste production. Eventually, those principles reached the waste management industry and society at large. All through the ‘90s and early ‘00s, “no waste” slogans were everywhere. But where did all that activism lead?

The Birth of Circular Economy

The idea of a cyclical system of production is certainly older than the modern Zero Waste philosophy. However, the concept of a circular economy wasn’t mentioned until 1988. Even then, shifting perspectives around the subject of waste production and management certainly helped popularize the idea.

Ultimately, the philosophies behind these two concepts are closely aligned. Both aim to reduce and eventually eliminate the production of waste. Unlike the linear approach we discussed earlier, circular economy is all about letting the Earth recover and minimizing the amount of raw resources we take from it. But in addition to benefiting the planet, the principles of sustainable production also need to benefit businesses.

After all, rather than paying for raw materials that are directly taken from nature, circular economy advocates for reusing and recycling already-processed materials. That should reduce the cost of production — in theory. Unfortunately, recycling technology is still too expensive for some businesses to invest in. So how can we, as consumers, nudge them in the right direction?

How Do We Start Transitioning to Circular Economy?

On an individual level, one thing we can all do is check our consumption habits. Don’t just throw out old items if you don’t have to. Instead, learn how to mend and transform objects into items you can keep using and loving.

Additionally, you can transition to shopping from sustainable local businesses. Ultimately, the cost of shipping is much greater than you might think. If nothing else, shopping locally tends to have a lower carbon footprint.

These individual decisions should eventually influence businesses to reduce the number of commodities they produce in the first place. But there’s one more thing we can do to prompt the industry to change its ways. Namely, we can influence policies with our vote.

Getting people to participate in this as a political movement is the best way to put pressure on companies. If there are laws and sanctions in place to regulate the production of commodities and waste, businesses will have to adjust their habits.

Can We Achieve Zero Waste Manufacturing?

As we have previously stated, all we need to transition to Zero Waste manufacturing is a few key industry sectors. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, these sectors should be steel, plastic, and aluminum manufacturing, as well as cement and food industries. By getting these five sectors to reuse materials during the production process in the factory, we could cut carbon emissions by 3.7 billion tons by 2050. New technologies like artificial intelligence are making it possible to make the transition to sustainable product development.

Best of all, the emerging models of circular economy will not only stimulate business growth but also create many new job opportunities. So the sooner we take that leap, the sooner our planet can start recovering.

The post Zero Waste Manufacturing: How Can We Transition to a Circular Economy? first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

Solid waste in Oman is characterized by very high percentage of recyclables, primarily paper (26%), plastics (12%), metals (11%) and glass (5%). However the country is yet to realize the recycling potential of its municipal waste stream. Most of the solid waste is sent to authorized and unauthorized dumpsites for disposal which is creating environment and health issues. There are several dumpsites which are located in the midst of residential areas or close to catchment areas of private and public drinking water bodies.

Solid waste management scenario in marked by lack of collection and disposal facilities. Solid waste, industrial waste, e-wastes etc are deposited in very large number of landfills scattered across the country. Oman has around 350 landfills/dumpsites which are managed by municipalities. In addition, there are numerous unauthorized dumpsites in Oman where all sorts of wastes are recklessly dumped.

Al Amerat landfill is the first engineered sanitary landfill in Oman which began its operations in early 2011. The landfill site, spread over an area of 9.6 hectares, consists of 5 cells with a total capacity of 10 million m3 of solid waste and spread over an area of over 9.6 hectares. Each cell has 16 shafts to take care of leachate (contaminated wastewater). All the shafts are interconnected, and will help in moving leachate to the leachate pump. The project is part of the government’s initiatives to tackle solid waste in a scientific and environment-friendly manner. Being the first of its kind, Al Amerat sanitary landfill is expected to be an example for the future solid waste management projects in the country.

Solid waste management is among the top priorities of Oman government which has chalked out a robust strategy to resolve waste management problem in the Sultanate. The country is striving to establish engineered landfills, waste transfer stations, recycling projects and waste-to-energy facilities in different parts of the country.

Modern MSW management facilities are under planning in several wilayat, especially Muscat and Salalah. The new landfills will eventually pave the way for closure of authorized and unauthorized garbage dumps around the country. However investments totaling Omani Rial 2.5 billion are required to put this waste management strategy into place.

The state-owned Oman Environment Services Holding Company (OESHCO), which is responsible for waste management projects in Oman, has recently started the tendering process for eight important projects. OESHCO has invited tenders from specialised companies for an engineered landfill and material recovery facility in Barka, apart from advisory services for 29 transfer stations and a couple of tenders for waste management services in the upcoming Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Duqm, among others. Among the top priorities is that development of Barka engineered landfill as the existing Barka waste disposal site, which serve entire wilayat and other neighbouring wilayats in south Batinah governorate, is plagued by environmental and public health issues.

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The following are the benefits of compounding pharmacies.

1. Allowing Access to Discontinued Medications

Sometimes, large manufacturers discontinue some drugs, making it very hard for patients who still require such medications to fill and manage their prescriptions. Compounding pharmacists play a vital role in the providence and access of such medications through recreating the pharmaceutical-based ingredients.

Therefore, if your prescription was discontinued, pharmacy compounding can ensure that you still get the right medication for your condition rather than searching for a potentially less effective treatment. Compounding pharmacies can access the highest quality of pharmaceutical ingredients to fill a prescription through the latest quality control processes, research, and techniques to meet the patient’s unique needs.

2. Make Medications a Lot Easier to Take

Some medications come with a precisely distasteful and unpleasant flavor. Completing such a dosage can be quite difficult and unsettling for you. You can seek a compounding pharmacist to have them custom make your prescription from scratch.

Better still, you may get an opportunity to pick out the flavor. This aspect of compounding pharmacies is particularly advantageous when dealing with medication of patients that are highly likely to refuse medication, for instance, elderly patients, children, or even pets. If you are attending to such a patient, or are in the position yourself, you may have the medication adjusted to your or their liking.

3. Allowing Patients Alternative Dosage Forms

It’s not uncommon to prefer your dosage in a different form. The most common problem patients face is the difficulty in swallowing their drugs in pill form; it may be easier for them to take their medication in a flavored liquid form.

You may also have your medication compounded in a topical form. For instance, you can have the compounding pharmacist use the active ingredients in your medicine to make a gel or cream that allows the medicine components to get absorbed via the bloodstream through the skin.

4. Make Allergy-Friendly Medications

A sensitive allergy, such as an intolerance to lactose, alcohol, gluten, or dyes may cause you unwanted reactions after taking some medications. In some other cases, it may be that the commercially available medication contains ingredients, such as preservatives and fillers, which your body cannot tolerate due to allergies or sensitivities to the said substances. 

If you are a victim of any of these, it would be advantageous to use a compounding pharmacy. The pharmacist will make a formula of all other active ingredients in the medication and leave out any of the ingredients that irritate your body. That way, you still manage to proceed with the right treatment.

Reach Out to a Compounding Pharmacy

The priority of compounding pharmacies is identifying their patients’ needs. It’s a great way to address medications you still need in order to treat your illness but keep factors such as allergies at bay. Compounding pharmacies can also often provide treatments for the resistant or even treat unusual diseases that the traditionally produced medication has failed to address.

Just like all other pharmacists, compounding pharmacists are professionals with extensive experience and training. Along with their ability to compound medications, the pharmacists will also answer any questions you may have regarding your prescription: doses, side effects, what to do after you miss a dose, and how long it will take the medication to work, and other issues.

The post Benefits of Compounding Pharmacies first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

Biochemical conversion

The waste is collected and milled, particles are shredded to reduce the size of 0.2-1.22 mm. MSW is pretreated to improve the accessibility of enzymes and make use of the enzymes in the bacteria for biological degradation on solid waste. The mixture of biomass is mixed with sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide and autoclaved. After steam treatment, the mixture is filtered and washed with deionized water. The pre-treated mixture is then dried and drained overnight. The pre-treatment process improves the formation of sugars by enzymatic hydrolysis, avoids the loss of carbohydrate and avoids the formation of by-products inhibitory.

After pre-treatment (pre-hydrolysis), the mixture undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis for conversion of polysaccharides into monomer sugars, such as glucose and xylose. The common enzymes used for starch-based substrates are amylase, pullulanase, isomylase and glucoamylase. Whereas for lignocellulose based substrates cellulases and glucosidases.

Finally, the mixture is fermented; sugars are converted to ethanol by using microorganisms such as, bacteria, yeast or fungi. The cellulosic and starch hydrolysates ethanolic fermentation were fermented by M. indicus at 37 °C for 72 h. The fungus uses the hexoses and pentoses sugars with a high concentration of inhibitors (i.e. furfural, hydroxymethyl furfural, and acetic acid).

The composition of MSW feedstock effects the yield of the subsequent processes. A high composition of food and vegetable waste is more desirable, as these wastes are easily degradable and result in high yields compared to paper and cardboard.

Thermochemical conversion

Gasification process is carried out by treating carbon-based material with either oxygen or steam to produce a gaseous fuel which requires high temperature and pressure. It can be described as partial oxidation of the waste. At first waste is reduced in size and dried to reduce the amount of energy used in the gasifier.

The carbonaceous material oxidizes (combines with oxygen) to produce syngas (carbon monoxide and hydrogen) along with carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, char, slag, and trace gases (depending on the composition of the feedstock). The syngas is then cleaned to remove any sulfur or acid gases and trace metals (depending on the composition of the feedstock).

The main uses of syngas are direct burning on site to provide heat or energy (by using boilers, gas turbines or steam driven engines) and refined to liquid fuels such as gasoline or ethanol.

Syngas can then be converted into biofuels and chemicals via catalytic processes such as the Fischer-Tropsch process. The Fischer-Tropsch process is a series of catalytic chemical reactions that convert syngas into liquid hydrocarbons by applying heat and pressure. Hydrocracking, hydro-treating, and hydro-isomerization can also be part of the “upgrading” process to maximize quantities of different products.

The post Biofuels from MSW – An Introduction first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

Air compressors are used in a variety of ways. This includes inflating toys and tires and powering tools such as drills, sanders, and nail guns.

When you’re wiring a switch for the first time, it may seem like a daunting task. However, with the right guide, the process will be easy.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the different parts of the pressure switch. This way, grasping the step-by-step guide will be easier.

Also, by understanding the switch’s role in the air compressor is to regulate the machine’s pressure, you will be more mindful of the wiring process.

What Equipment is Necessary for the Wiring Process?

Before you wire a 220v air compressor pressure switch, you should make sure you have everything you need for the process. This will allow you to work on the pressure switch seamlessly. The necessary items include:

• Screwdriver
• Wire strippers
• Safety gloves
• Solderless ring terminals
• Pressure switch

Safety Tips to Consider Before Wiring the Pressure Switch

When working on any electrical equipment, it’s vital to stay safe. This includes trying to install a wire pressure switch on an air compressor. By following the tips outlined below, you will be well equipped to safeguard yourself.

• You should constantly check the efficiency of your pressure switch to determine beforehand if repairs should be done.
• Make sure the wires you intend to use have proper insulation.
• Consider wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and respirator masks, before you start the wiring process.
• Ensure your hands and the surface around you is dry and free of water.
• Before connecting terminals and cords, double check the terminal labels and wire colors.
• Main source of power should be shut off before anything is done.
• If you’re replacing a pressure switch, make sure its compatible with your air compressor.

How to Wire a 220V Air Compressor Pressure Switch

Step 1: Turn off the circuit breaker

First, ensure that the air compressor and the circuit breaker are near each other for convenience. You should then inspect the circuit breaker to ensure it’s shut off before starting the wiring process. This will prevent unnecessary accidents.

One of the main functions of the pressure switch is to automatically turn the air compressor ON and OFF. This occurs to ensure correct pressure levels in the tank are maintained.

A plugged-in compressor contains power at the switch. This means removing the pressure switch cover will expose live terminals. Working on the air compressor with these live terminals may lead to electrocution.

Therefore, unplugging the main cords of the compressor and double-checking the circuit breaker to ensure its off becomes necessary.

Step 2: Identify the cords and terminals

Once you remove the switch cover, it exposes four terminals(contacts). These terminals are organized as two sets. Most organizations mark these terminals to avoid confusion. One set is marked as LINE, and the other is marked as MOTOR/LOAD.

The two major wires used while wiring the air compressor pressure switch are the power cord (line cord) and the motor cord. The power cord connects to the wall plug and its pressure switch terminal, while the motor cord connects the pressure switch and the motor circuit.

To differentiate the cords, they are normally colored in white, black, and green. The white and black cords are used on the motor terminals. The green cord act as ground wires. They are attached to a metallic section of the switch.

Provided the green wires are correctly attached to the ground point, it doesn’t matter which green wire goes to which of the two spots. A ground wire is essential during electrical installation because it protects the user from shorts in the system.

Step 3: Attach the cords to their terminals

Some cords have soldering attached to the stripped wires. Therefore, all you have to do is attach the cords to the terminals. However, other motor and power cords are not stripped beforehand.

When this is the case, it is up to you to strip the cords. Using a wire stripper, expose the end portions of the wires. Proceed to attach the soldering and these exposed wires.

Check for the terminal markings, and using a screwdriver, loosen the screws. Once you are done, attach the respective cords to their terminals.

Step 4: Restore circuit breaker

Lastly, place the switch cover back on the pressure switch. You can then turn on the compressor by restoring power to the circuit breaker.

Testing your Pressure Switch Performance

Choosing to test your pressure switch to ensure it’s working can make your life easier. This is because you get to determine underlying problems, if any, in advance. A multi-meter/ohmmeter will come in handy during this process.

You should start by unplugging the compressor. Next, pull the housing from the switch. Remove wires running between the terminal block and the pressure switch. However, leave the motor cords intact.

Remove all the air in the compressor tank. When the pressure in the compressor tank is more than the cut-in pressure, the pressure switch won’t automatically trip.

However, as pressure decreases gradually, it will reach the cut-in pressure of the switch. When this happens, you will see and hear the switch trip.

When the pressure in the compressor tank is lower than the normal cut-in, plug the compressor back in. With the use of an ohmmeter, check if the voltage is flowing to the motor.

If the tank has no pressure, the switch should automatically turn ON, and there should be power flow. If this is not the case, the pressure switch is faulty. This means it’s time to buy and wire a second 220 air compressor pressure switch.

Conclusion

Pressure switches play a major electro-mechanical role in the air compressor. This means they are constantly in use. However, this can cause them to wear out and require replacement.

When your air compressor takes in pressure past the cut-out setting of the pressure switch, it is about time you changed it. Fortunately, you now know how to wire a 220V air compressor pressure switch.

The post How to Wire a 220V Air Compressor Pressure Switch first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.

Currently, hydrogen production using the electrolysis of water is most preferred. However, hydrogen production can vary in the range of sectors. Hydrogen can be used in electricity production, biomass, solar and wind power application.

Despite its advantages, two significant issues hinder its commercialisation and generalisation as an efficient fuel, and energy transition toward zero-emission and fossil-free energy solutions. The first is hydrogen is an energy vector, which means hydrogen needs to be produced before its use and eventually lead to energy consumption in hydrogen synthesis. The second is the low volumetric energy density of hydrogen, which leads to hydrogen storage and transportation issues because of its lowest volumetric energy density (0.01079 MJ/L)

Researchers have suggested several solutions to attempt to increase this value:

• compression in gas cylinders;
• liquefaction in cryogenic tanks;
• storage in metal-hydride alloys;
• adsorption onto large specific surface area-materials
• chemical storage in covalent and ionic compounds (viz. formic acid, borohydride, ammonia)

Applications of Hydrogen

The hydrogen applications are in the food industry to turn unsaturated fats and oils present in vegetable oils, butter into a saturated state. In the metal forming industry, atomic hydrogen welding is used as an environmentally sustainable welding process. In the manufacturing industry, hydrogen and nitrogen are used to create a boundary and prevent the oxidation of metals.

The recent advancements in hydrogen applications in the steel manufacturing industry are one of the most significant hydrogen applications for low or zero-emission iron ore conversion.

The potential use of hydrogen can play a vital role in reducing greenhouse emissions and the global target of achieving a minimal no emission target by 2050. However, the automotive industry is still the largest consumer and most attractive sector in the current scenario. But with the future forecast of reducing hydrogen fuel cost can do wonders with the goal set during Paris Climate Summit.

Hydrogen use in stationary and automotive applications, such as fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen refuelling stations above all, has shown to be hindered by its volumetric energy density – the lowest among all the standard fuels nowadays used. Compression seems to be the most efficient solution to reach high storage levels, thus making hydrogen more common as a renewable and sustainable fuel.

The availability of several hydrogen compression technologies makes the development of new innovative and environmentally-friendly solutions for the use of energy possible, leading to a transition towards a fossil fuel divestment and making a critical contribution to sustainable development

The post Things You Should Know About the Uses of Hydrogen first appeared on BioEnergy Consult.