Artificial Intelligence-Aided Materials Design
This book describes the application of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) concepts to develop predictive models that can be used to design alloy materials. It will appeal to readers who are both new to and experienced with the use of AI/ML algorithms in data-driven materials science.
Mems Product Development
Drawing on their experiences in successfully executing hundreds of MEMS development projects, the authors present the first practical guide to navigating the technical and business challenges of MEMS product development, from the initial concept stage all the way to commercialization. The strategies and tactics presented, when practiced diligently, can shorten development timelines, help avoid common pitfalls, and improve the odds of success, especially when resources are limited. MEMS Product Development illuminates what it really takes to develop a novel MEMS product so that innovators, designers, entrepreneurs, product managers, investors, and executives may properly prepare their companies to succeed.
Resourcing the National Security Enterprise
Few military officers can ascend to the ranks of senior leadership without eventually being assigned to Washington, DC, where newcomers navigating the system inevitably become emmeshed, flabbergasted, and stymied by entrenched bureaucratic processes they had no idea existed. A career in diplomacy or working on the Hill often involves the process-oriented work necessary to keep departments funded and the government functional. In order to succeed, one must understand these rules, especially as they apply to resourcing. Without funding, strategies and policies are merely interesting ideas. Getting an idea or a program resourced requires a thorough understanding of the process.Considering the national security enterprise from the standpoint of strategic resourcing is neither simple nor straightforward. To succeed requires a multidisciplinary approach; a team with substantial background knowledge on such diverse and byzantine topics as the Department of Defense acquisition system, the president's budget submission, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Preparedness Frameworks, in addition to a basic understanding of macroeconomics. Further, the development of a cohesive and logical narrative is difficult because the Framers' intended checks and balances among the executive and legislative branches effectively preclude the possibility of seamless integration among national security priorities. Anyone aspiring to have a career in national security must understand the process in order to be effective.Graduate school programs in security studies, public policy, and political science offer multiple courses that consider bureaucracy from academic and theoretical perspectives, but these classes generally do not attempt to offer a practitioner's view of surviving and thriving within the Washington bureaucracy. And although individual government departments and agencies such as the Department of Defense's Joint Staff and the Department of State's Foreign Service Institute (FSI) offer courses for personnel newly assigned to Washington, the majority of the learning occurs through on-the-job training.This book fills the gap and provides a much-needed, theoretically grounded, and practical guide. Each chapter in this volume is by a practitioner with decades of experience working on resourcing issues in Washington. Their perspectives are informed by the cultures of the agencies in which they have worked and the positions they have held. Many currently teach in DC-based graduate degree programs in a variety of disciplines, including strategy, economics, and organizational leadership. Resourcing the National Security Enterprise will be a valuable resource for aspiring practitioners who are beginning or seeking careers in the American federal government and to those who wish to learn more about the inner workings of resourcing the national security enterprise.*This book is in the Rapid Communications in Conflict and Security (RCCS) Series (General Editor: Dr. Geoffrey R.H. Burn).
Silver Nanoparticles
Silver Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Functionalization and Applications presents detailed information about the range of methods of synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The book systematically delves into the subject with an introductory chapter before moving to chemical synthesis of AGnPs and fabrication methods which help in assigning functional properties for useful nanomaterials. Basic and advanced synthetic methods like surface functionalization and bioconjugation are covered. Additionally, the book informs about impactful applications of AGNPs across a range of industries. Through this book, readers will be able to understand the importance of silver nanoparticles as a futuristic material in scientific investigations and gain a comprehensive understanding of the operational strategies revolving around their surface modification and conjugation. Key Features: -Covers the basics of silver nanoparticle (AGNP) synthesis-Focuses on green methods of AGNPs- Covers information about surface modification and functionalization of AGNPs with different molecules (including biomolecules)-Covers a range of applications of AGNPs-Includes advanced applications of AGNPs in next-generation antibiotics Silver Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Functionalization and Applications a handy reference for scholars in advanced chemical engineering, materials science and pharmacology programs as well as anyone who wants to know all about silver nanoparticles.
Thin Film and Flexible Thermoelectric Generators, Devices and Sensors
This book presents and facilitates new research and development results with hot topics in the thermoelectric generators (TEGs) field. Topics include: novel thin film; multilayer, composite and nanostructured thermoelectric materials; simulation of phenomena related to thermoelectricity; thermoelectric thin film and multilayer materials manufacturing technologies; measurement techniques for characterization; thermoelectric generators; and the simulation, modeling, design, thermal, and mechanical degradation problems. This book helps researchers tackle the challenges that still remain in creating cheap and effective TEGs and presents the latest trends and technologies in development and production of advanced thermoelectric generation devices.
2D Functional Nanomaterials
2D Functional Nanomaterials Outlines the latest developments in 2D heterojunction nanomaterials with energy conversion applications In 2D Functional Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, Dr. Ganesh S. Kamble presents an authoritative overview of the most recent progress in the rational design and synthesis of 2D nanomaterials and their applications in semiconducting catalysts, biosensors, electrolysis, batteries, and solar cells. This interdisciplinary volume is a valuable resource for materials scientists, electrical engineers, nanoscientists, and solid-state physicists looking for up-to-date information on 2D heterojunction nanomaterials. The text summarizes the scientific contributions of international experts in the fabrication and application of 2D nanomaterials while discussing the importance and impact of 2D nanomaterials on future economic growth, novel manufacturing processes, and innovative products. Provides thorough coverage of graphene chemical derivatives synthesis and applications, including state-of-the-art developments and perspectives Describes 2D/2D graphene oxide-layered double hydroxide nanocomposites for immobilization of different radionuclides Covers 2D nanomaterials for biomedical applications and novel 2D nanomaterials for next-generation photodetectors Discusses applications of 2D nanomaterials for cancer therapy and recent trends ingraphene-latex nanocomposites Perfect for materials scientists, inorganic chemists, and electronics engineers, 2D Functional Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications is also an essential resource for solid-state physicists seeking accurate information on recent progress in two-dimensional heterojunction materials with energy conversion applications.
Semiconductor Solar Photocatalysts
Provides a timely overview of basic principles and significant advances of semiconductor-based photocatalysts for solar energy conversion Semiconductor Solar Photocatalysts: Fundamentals and Applications presents a systematic, in-depth summary of both fundamental and cutting-edge research in novel photocatalytic systems. Focusing on photocatalysts with vast potential for efficient utilization of solar energy, this up-to-date volume covers heterojunction systems, graphene-based photocatalysts, organic semiconductor photocatalysts, metal sulfide semiconductor photocatalysts, and graphitic carbon nitride-based photocatalysts. Organized into six chapters, the text opens with a detailed introduction to the history, design principles, modification strategies, and performance evaluation methods of solar energy photocatalysis. The remaining chapters provide detailed discussion of various novel photocatalytic systems such as direct Z-scheme and S-scheme photocatalysts, organic polymers, and covalent organic frameworks. This authoritative resource: Explains the essential concepts of solar energy photocatalysis and heterojunction systems for photocatalysis Reviews interesting structures and new applications of semiconductor photocatalysts Features contributions from an international panel of leading researchers in the field Includes extensive references and numerous tables, figures, and color illustrations Semiconductor Solar Photocatalysts: Fundamentals and Applications is valuable resource for all catalytic chemists, materials scientists, inorganic and physical chemists, chemical engineers, and physicists working in the semiconductor industry.
Perovskite Solar Cells
Presents a thorough overview of perovskite research, written by leaders in the field of photovoltaics The use of perovskite-structured materials to produce high-efficiency solar cells is a subject of growing interest for academic researchers and industry professionals alike. Due to their excellent light absorption, longevity, and charge-carrier properties, perovskite solar cells show great promise as a low-cost, industry-scalable alternative to conventional photovoltaic cells. Perovskite Solar Cells: Materials, Processes, and Devices provides an up-to-date overview of the current state of perovskite solar cell research. Addressing the key areas in the rapidly growing field, this comprehensive volume covers novel materials, advanced theory, modelling and simulation, device physics, new processes, and the critical issue of solar cell stability. Contributions by an international panel of researchers highlight both the opportunities and challenges related to perovskite solar cells while offering detailed insights on topics such as the photon recycling processes, interfacial properties, and charge transfer principles of perovskite-based devices. Examines new compositions, hole and electron transport materials, lead-free materials, and 2D and 3D materials Covers interface modelling techniques, methods for modelling in two and three dimensions, and developments beyond Shockley-Queisser Theory Discusses new fabrication processes such as slot-die coating, roll processing, and vacuum sublimation Describes the device physics of perovskite solar cells, including recombination kinetics and optical absorption Explores innovative approaches to increase the light conversion efficiency of photovoltaic cells Perovskite Solar Cells: Materials, Processes, and Devices is essential reading for all those in the photovoltaic community, including materials scientists, surface physicists, surface chemists, solid state physicists, solid state chemists, and electrical engineers.
Be Decent
Be Decent: Environmental Activism 2.0By: Samantha Joule FowClimate change, pollution, extinction, and other serious environmental problems are making us all a little sicker and a little sadder every day. Our leaders are doing very little - and often, nothing at all - to stop our most threatening environmental hazards from getting worse. Our centralized institutions are failing us in this regard, and we can no longer trust them to act in the public benefit.But we are finding ways to harness decentralized technologies (aka "decent tech") for ourselves in a manner that helps us protect our communities and ourselves. Decent tech in the hands of decent people can save our planet - all we have to do is Be Decent."Be Decent is an in-depth and through resource for the betterment of our society and the future health of the environment."- Nadine N., Environmental AttorneyAbout the AuthorSamantha Joule FowWhen not working for the clients of Axiom Communications or pondering the mysteries of our relationships with technology and the environment, Samantha Joule Fow can be found on her yoga mat flowing through a moving meditation or climbing the crags and ice flows of the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
Biomedical Composites
Biomedical applications of nanosilicate composites.- Polysaccharide-based composites for biomedical applications.- Biomedical nanocomposites.- Antimicrobial nanocomposites.- Potential application of silver nanocomposites for antimicrobial activity.- Cellulose and chitin nanofibers: Potential applications on wound healing.- Bionanocomposites for in situ drug delivery in cancer therapy: early and late evaluations.- Tumor microenvironment and intracellular signal-activated nanocomposites for anticancer drug delivery.- Nanocomposites for Cancer Targeted Drug Delivery Therapeutics.
The Bomber In British Strategy
Between 1945 and 1960, Great Britain constructed a substantial nuclear-armed bomber force. The creation of this force had ramifications that extended well beyond the confines of military policy. The process played a large part in defining relations with the United States, and the belief that these bombers could replace conventional forces convinced successive British governments that Great Britain could maintain a significant global military role. Originally published in 1995 and drawing on both archives and oral testimony, this book analyses British strategic discourse and its influence on British foreign policy in the early decades of the Cold War.
The Bomber in British Strategy
Originally published in 1995 and drawing on both archives and oral testimony, this book analyses British strategic discourse and its influence on British foreign policy in the early decades of the Cold War.
Lignocellulosic Fibers
The book is primarily focused on natural plant (lignocellulosic) fibers as sustainable reinforcement material for green composites. It begins with a brief introduction to common plant-based reinforcements, their extraction techniques, the structure of plant fibers, and describes novel fibers extracted from fruit, seeds, leaf, bast, and agricultural waste. The book then focuses on the application of these fibers as reinforcements for composite materials, covering reinforcement and composite fabrication techniques, as well as their performance evaluation. Overall, the book provides a unique and comprehensive look at lignocellulosic fibers for use in green composites, appealing to both researchers in the area of sustainable materials and industry professionals and entrepreneurs interested in their utilization in value-added composite products.
Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War
Herman Melville (born Melvill; August 1, 1819 - September 28, 1891) was an American novelist, short story writer, and poet of the American Renaissance period. Among his best-known works are Moby-Dick (1851); Typee (1846), a romanticized account of his experiences in Polynesia; and Billy Budd, Sailor, a posthumously published novella. Although his reputation was not high at the time of his death, the centennial of his birth in 1919 was the starting point of a Melville revival, and Moby-Dick grew to be considered one of the great American novels.Melville's growing literary ambition showed in Moby-Dick (1851), which took nearly a year and a half to write, but it did not find an audience, and critics scorned his psychological novel Pierre: or, The Ambiguities (1852). From 1853 to 1856, Melville published short fiction in magazines, including "Benito Cereno" and "Bartleby, the Scrivener". In 1857, he traveled to England, toured the Near East, and published his last work of prose, The Confidence-Man (1857). He moved to New York in 1863, eventually taking a position as United States customs inspector.From that point, Melville focused his creative powers on poetry. Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War (1866) was his poetic reflection on the moral questions of the American Civil War. In 1867, his eldest child Malcolm died at home from a self-inflicted gunshot. Melville's metaphysical epic Clarel: A Poem and Pilgrimage in the Holy Land was published in 1876. In 1886, his other son Stanwix died of apparent tuberculosis, and Melville retired. During his last years, he privately published two volumes of poetry, and left one volume unpublished. The novella Billy Budd was left unfinished at his death, but was published posthumously in 1924. Melville died from cardiovascular disease in 1891. (wikipedia.org)
Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War
Herman Melville (born Melvill; August 1, 1819 - September 28, 1891) was an American novelist, short story writer, and poet of the American Renaissance period. Among his best-known works are Moby-Dick (1851); Typee (1846), a romanticized account of his experiences in Polynesia; and Billy Budd, Sailor, a posthumously published novella. Although his reputation was not high at the time of his death, the centennial of his birth in 1919 was the starting point of a Melville revival, and Moby-Dick grew to be considered one of the great American novels.Melville's growing literary ambition showed in Moby-Dick (1851), which took nearly a year and a half to write, but it did not find an audience, and critics scorned his psychological novel Pierre: or, The Ambiguities (1852). From 1853 to 1856, Melville published short fiction in magazines, including "Benito Cereno" and "Bartleby, the Scrivener". In 1857, he traveled to England, toured the Near East, and published his last work of prose, The Confidence-Man (1857). He moved to New York in 1863, eventually taking a position as United States customs inspector.From that point, Melville focused his creative powers on poetry. Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War (1866) was his poetic reflection on the moral questions of the American Civil War. In 1867, his eldest child Malcolm died at home from a self-inflicted gunshot. Melville's metaphysical epic Clarel: A Poem and Pilgrimage in the Holy Land was published in 1876. In 1886, his other son Stanwix died of apparent tuberculosis, and Melville retired. During his last years, he privately published two volumes of poetry, and left one volume unpublished. The novella Billy Budd was left unfinished at his death, but was published posthumously in 1924. Melville died from cardiovascular disease in 1891. (wikipedia.org)
Application of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis in Environmental and Civil Engineering
The use of a multi-criteria, decision-making theory was first studied in the 1970s. Its application in civil and environmental engineering is a new approach which can be enormously helpful for manufacturing companies, students, managers, engineers, etc. The purpose of this book is to provide a resource for students and researchers that includes current application of a multi-criteria, decision-making theory in various fields such as: environment, healthcare and engineering. In addition, practical application are shown for students manually. In real life problems there are many critical parameters (criteria) that can directly or indirectly affect the consequences of different decisions. Application of a multi-criteria, decision-making theory is basically the use of computational methods that incorporate several criteria and order of preference in evaluating and selecting the best option among many alternatives based on the desired outcome.
The Modifications of Metallic and Inorganic Materials by Using Energetic Ion/Electron Beams
This book consists of original and review papers which describe basic and applied studies for the modifications of metallic and inorganic materials by using energetic ion/electron beams. When materials are irradiated with energetic charged particles (ions /electrons), their energies are transferred to electrons and atoms in materials, and the lattice structures of the materials are largely changed to metastable or non-thermal-equilibrium states, modifying several physical properties. Such phenomena will engage the interest of researchers as a basic science, and can also be used as promising tools for adding new functionalities to existing materials and for the development of novel materials. The papers in this book cover the ion/electron-beam-induced modifications of several properties (optical, electronic, magnetic, mechanical, and chemical properties) and lattice structures. This book will, therefore, be useful for many scientists and engineers who have been involved in fundamental material science and the industrial applications of metallic and inorganic materials.
Advanced Nanocellulose-Based Materials
Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are three nanometric forms of the most abundant natural polymer (viz. cellulose), and are currently under the spotlight in numerous fields of modern science and technology. The eco-friendly connotations, peculiar features, and multiple functionalities of these nanoscale cellulosic substrates are being explored to engineer advanced nanocomposites and nanohybrid materials for application in manifold domains, such as mechanics, optics, electronics, energy, environment, biology, and medicine.The aim of this Special Issue titled "Advanced Nanocellulose-Based Materials: Production, Properties, and Applications" is to gather original research and review contributions from the world-leading scientists working with nanocellulose. Thus, research that is representative of the current developments dealing with the production methodologies, properties, and applications of nanocellulose-based materials (e.g., nanocomposites, hybrids, aerogels, hydrogels, films, and fibers) are presented in the Special Issue.
Elements of Military Art and Science
ContentsPreface IntroductionStrategyFortificationsLogisticsTacticsMilitary PolityOur Northern Frontier DefencesArmy OrganizationPermanent FortificationsField EngineeringMilitary Education
An Examination of the Feasibility of Producing Green Hydrogen from Curtailed, Onshore Wind Power using a North Wales Case Study
Onshore wind power is considered one of the most important future energy sources, but its intermittent and variable nature present a number of challenges to increasing the supply and penetration of wind energy in our energy systems, including the loss of renewable energy through cur-tailment. Hydrogen, which has for many years been considered an inter-esting option is now seriously considered as a possible solution to some of these challenges presented by renewable energy intermittency, varia-bility as well as the decarbonization challenge of other sectors. Use of hydrogen in this way has recently seen a convergence of political and industry support. This study will aim to examine the feasibility of pro-ducing hydrogen from curtailed onshore wind energy using a wind farm in North Wales as a case study. The research begins with a literature re-view and an analysis of the technical, economic, and environmental fea-sibility of hydrogen production from onshore wind before presenting an original economic model, offering results on the specific economic fea-sibility of producing hydrogen from the curtailed generation of a wind farm in North Wales. The results suggest that supplying hydrogen into the transport sector is the most economically feasible solution. The re-sults also consider the economic feasibility of wholesale and gas grid supply. The results are analyzed within the geographical context of the case study site and the opportunities for supply and demand of hydro-gen which currently exist or planned future development. This research provides in depth analysis and tools to enable a better understanding of the relationship between onshore wind and hydrogen production in Wales, UK.
Transformation of Transportation
This book features original scientific manuscripts submitted for publication at the International Conference - The Science and Development of Transport (ZIRP 2020), organized by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences, Zagreb, and held in Sibenik, Croatia, from 29th to 30th September 2020. The conference brought together scientists and practitioners to share innovative solutions available to everyone. Presenting the latest scientific research, case studies and best practices in the fields of transport and logistics, the book covers topics such as sustainable urban mobility and logistics, safety and policy, data science, process automation, and inventory forecasting, improving competitiveness in the transport and logistics services market and increasing customer satisfaction. The book is of interest to experienced researchers and professionals as well as Ph.D. students in the fields of transport and logistics.
Nanostructured Materials for Solar Cell Applications
The use of nanomaterials in technologies for photovoltaic applications continues to represent an important area of research. There are numerous mechanisms by which the incorporation of nanomaterials can improve device performance. We invited authors to contribute articles covering the most recent progress and new developments in the design and utilization of nanomaterials for highly efficient, novel devices relevant to solar cell applications. This book covers a broad range of subjects, from nanomaterials synthesis to the design and characterization of photovoltaic devices and technologies with nanomaterial integration.
New Frontiers of Nanomaterials in Environmental Science
This book provides the detail information about nanoparticles, their types, characterization techniques such as TEM, FESEM, AFM, XRD etc. nanogenotoxicity, metal and metal oxide nanoparticle's toxicity, physical and chemical characterization of nanomaterials, entry routes, cell-nano interaction studies, possible impacts to the human kind, and on the methods of evaluating the toxicity. It puts together comprehensive and up-to-date information about sustainable approaches in making an eco-friendly environment using advanced nanotechnologies. It educated readers about the new frontiers and scope of employing various state-of-art nano-technologies to clean-up and save our environment. This book will be of interest to teachers, researchers, environmental biotechnologists, capacity builders and policymakers. Also the book serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, environmental sciences, environmental engineering and biotechnology.
China's Resources, Energy and Sustainable Development: 2020
China's Energy Transition Strategy in the Context of Global Climate Change.- Research on Urbanization and Low-carbon Development in China.- Low-carbon Transition (peaking) of Chinese Cities: The Case of Beijing.- The Transition of China's Power System.- Reality and Challenges of China's Water Resources Management in the Context of Climate Change.
Climate Change and Water Resources in Africa
The focus of this book is on the key water-related vulnerabilities to climate change in Africa, particularly in its most vulnerable areas, exploring potential management responses to such vulnerabilities. The African countries are particularly exposed and vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change, with important impacts on water resources and hydrological systems, water availability, water resource management and sea level variations. Already, under various anthropogenic pressures, the status of water resources in Africa has been changing over the past decades, with decreasing water quality, falling groundwater levels, and variability in rainfall, both in terms of timing and intensity. Climate change will further accelerate the rate of change, affecting the ability of people and societies to respond in a timely manner. It is clear that there is no quick fix to the pressures imposed on water resources by climate change. Increasing the resilience of ecosystems and communities to extreme events such as flooding and drought, and integrating climate change risks and opportunities into development decision-making is indeed a key challenge, as much a technical climate-change one, as a political and developmental challenge. The book, in this regard, intends to contribute to the debate around climate change in relation to water resources management in Africa, and in particular inform policy decisions and actions that will improve governments' and communities' ability to manage the challenges of climate change and variability in relation to the aquatic ecosystems that they depend on. The knowledge collected in this book will benefit policy makers, researchers, as well as other stakeholders.
Materials Science and Engineering
The design and discovery of new materials, specifically solids, is referred to as materials science and engineering. It is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses various fields including physics, chemistry and engineering. It also includes metallurgy, ceramics, solid state physics and chemistry. Material science is concerned with understanding how the structure, performance and properties of a material are affected by its processing history. The understanding of the relationship between various characteristics of the material is known as materials paradigm. The different materials studied within this field are broadly classified into crystalline and amorphous materials. Some of the major types of materials studies within this field are nanomaterials, biomaterials, semiconductors, metals and ceramics. This textbook attempts to understand the multiple branches that fall under the discipline of materials science and engineering, and how such concepts have practical applications. It aims to shed light on some of the unexplored aspects of this field. This book will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.
Multiscale Fatigue Modelling of Metals
Fatigue is one of the most important failure modes of engineering components. The book presents recent research regarding the multiscale modelling of metallic materials during different stages of fatigue. The various parameters that are involved in each stage are investigated.Keywords: Fatigue Crack Initiation, Critical Resolved Shear Stress, Endurance Limit, Fatigue Crack Growth, Fatigue Lifetime Estimation, Multiscale Modelling, Paris Law, Tanaka-Mura Equation, W繹hler (S-N) Curve.
Advanced Functional Membranes
Functional membranes are used in food processing, sensor technology, medical and biomedical devices, desalination, waste water treatment, CO2 capture, energy production and energy storage, optoelectronics etc. The book reviews recent advances in the field and discusses challenges and perspectives.Keywords: Membrane Fabrication, Polymer Membranes, Self-Assembled Membranes, Molecular Probes, Membrane Fouling, Membrane Cleaning, Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, Food Processing, Sensors, Medical Devices, Biomedical Applications, Desalination, Wastewater Treatment, Ion Exchange Processes, Polymeric Ceramic Membranes, Nano Holes, Fuel Cells, Lithium-Ion Batteries, Optoelectronics.
Structural, Magnetic, Dielectric, Electrical, Optical and Thermal Properties of Nanocrystalline Materials
This book is a collection of the research articles and review article, published in special issue "Structural, Magnetic, Dielectric, Electrical, Optical and Thermal Properties of Nanocrystalline Materials: Synthesis, Characterization and Application".
Multifunctional Nanomaterials
This book is a collection of review articles and research articles, which was published in the Special Issue "Multifunctional Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties and Applications" of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nanomaterials
Nanomaterial is defined a natural, incidental or manufactured material containing particles, in an unbound state or as an aggregate or as an agglomerate and where, for 50 % or more of the particles in the number size distribution, one or more external dimensions is in the size range 1 nm to 100 nm. Nanomaterials not only differ from the corresponding bulk materials in morphological properties but they can also demonstrate different physico-chemical characteristics. Manufactured nanomaterials are regarded as key components of innovations in various fields with high potential impact, such as energy generation and storage, electronics, photonics, diagnostics, integrated sensors, semiconductors, foods, textiles, structural materials, sunscreens, cosmetics, and coatings or drug delivery systems, and medical imaging equipment. Widespread use of nanomaterials raises concerns about their safety for humans and the environment, possibly limiting the impact of the nanotechnology-based innovation. The development of safe nanomaterials has to result in a safe, as well as functional material or product. Its safe use, and disposal at the end of its life cycle must be taken into account too. Responsibility for the safe handling of synthetic nanomaterials therefore rests with the manufacturer and importer. This book gathers and reviews the collection of five contributions (four articles and one review), with authors from Europe and America accepted for publication in the aforementioned Special Issue of Fibers.
Ionic Conductive Polymers for Electrochemical Devices
Increasing levels of pollution and climate change are pushing the scientific community towards more sustainable solutions for the conversion and storage of energy. This book is dedicated to ionic conductive polymers, fundamental components of devices such as fuel cells (FCs), redox flow batteries (RFBs), and electrolyzers that can help to significantly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases emission. The book focuses on commercial polymers such as Nafion, a benchmark for proton-conducting membranes, acid doped polybenzimidazole (PBI), or blended membranes containing hyperbranched poly(arylene ether sulfone (PAES)/Linear poly(phenylene oxide) (PPO) as anion exchange membranes (AEMs). Promising and low-cost sulfonated aromatic polymers (SAP), or solid polymer blend electrolytes (SPBEs) based on natural chitosan (CS) and methylcellulose (MC). This book is also reports some strategies to enhance mechanical stability, such as cross-linking (XL), or several techniques, including classical casting methods or electrospinning (ES). I am confident that this book will serve to further stimulate advances in this research area, in both the sectors of membranes and catalysts, the first is essential for the long-term functioning of the system, and the second for a drastic reduction in costs, especially in fuel cells.
Environmental Footprints of Recycled Products
Recycling is the need of the hour and it is an inevitable destination at the end of the life of any product. Today, recycling can happen at postindustrial and post-consumer states and the importance of recycled products in the market has gained significant importance. Recycled products dominate the array of sustainable products in today's context. Even though there are commercial implications for recycling, one of the very important and obvious reasons to go for recycling and to have recycled products is to have the benefits on environmental sustainability. It is highly important to assess the environmental footprints of recycled products and further improve the environmental benefits of such recycled products. This book presents five interesting chapters pertaining to the environmental footprints of various recycled products.
Sodium-Ion Batteries
Sodium-Ion Batteries An essential resource with coverage of up-to-date research on sodium-ion battery technology Lithium-ion batteries form the heart of many of the stored energy devices used by people all across the world. However, global lithium reserves are dwindling, and a new technology is needed to ensure a shortfall in supply does not result in disruptions to our ability to manufacture reliable, efficient batteries. In Sodium-Ion Batteries: Energy Storage Materials and Technologies, eminent researcher and materials scientist Yan Yu delivers a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), including their design principles, cathode and anode materials, electrolytes, and binders. The author discusses high-performance rechargeable sodium-ion battery technology in the contexts of energy, power density, and electrochemical stability for commercialization. Exploring a wide range of literature on the recent progress made by researchers on sodium-ion battery technology, the book provides valuable perspectives on designing better materials for SIBs to unlock their practical capabilities. A thorough introduction to sodium-ion batteries, including their key materials and likely future developments Comprehensive explorations of design principles of electrode materials and electrolytes for sodium-ion batteries Practical discussions of cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries, including transition metal oxides, polyanionic compounds, Prussian blue analogues and organic compounds In-depth examinations of anode materials for sodium-ion batteries, including carbon-based materials, metal chalcogenides, metal alloys, phosphorus and Na metal anodes Perfect for materials scientists, inorganic chemists, electrochemists, and physical chemists, Sodium-Ion Batteries: Energy Storage Materials and Technologies will also earn a place in the libraries of catalytic and polymer chemists.
Recycling of Rare Earths
The recycling of rare earth elements is one of the great challenges for establishing a green economy. Rare earths play an essential role in a great many high-tech products and processes: electronic display screens, computer monitors, cell phones, rechargeable batteries, high-strength magnets, catalytic converters, fluorescent lamps etc. Recycling these materials not only results in valuable materials for new products; it also helps in reducing mountains of discarded products. The recycling methods discussed include bioleaching, biosorption, siderophores, algae and seaweed. carbon-based nanomaterials, silica, pyrometallurgy, electrochemistry, hydrometallurgy, solvent extraction and the use of various absorbents. The book references 253 original resources with their direct web links for in-depth reading.Keywords: Rare Earths, Bioleaching, Biosorption, Siderophores, Algae, Seaweed. Carbon-based Nanomaterials, Silica, Pyrometallurgy, Electrochemistry, Hydrometallurgy, Solvent Extraction, Absorbents, Ash, Slag, Red Mud, Contaminated Soil.
Human Activity, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Protected Areas
This book examines the development needs of protected areas with threatened ecological biodiversity to gain deeper understanding of the local perspective of protected area ecosystems. The study focuses on the case of Nech Sar National Park in Ethiopia, a protected area facing many development challenges due to human over-utilization of its resources and threats to wildlife. The conceptual framework developed by this research makes an academic contribution in the protection and sustainable development of national parks' natural capital, since it is designed to provide a systemic analysis of the problem by showing the extent and magnitude of human induced impacts on the natural capital of protected areas. In line with this, the application of the framework produces new and evidence-based findings which will help to improve the governance of protected areas as the research will provide park authorities with a practical tool in addressing the underlying causes of the degradation of national parks before the state of degradation of these resources reach its irreversible juncture. The book will help academicians and researchers to assess the state of biodiversity resources in protected areas using Nech Sar National Park as a representative example of a threatened area common throughout Africa, and will enable development practitioners and policy makers to devise appropriate strategies such as community participation in the governance of protected areas that could help to halt the degradation of resources in protected areas.
Advanced Magnetic Nanocomposites
This book is a collection of research articles and review articles, which was published in the Special Issue "Advanced Magnetic Nanocomposites: Structural, Physical Properties and Application". This book ''Advanced Magnetic Nanocomposites: Structural, Physical Properties and Application'' discussed recent development on advanced magnetic nanoparticles and nanocomposites with detailed explanation of structural and physical characteristics, and further possible potential application.
Towards an Emissions Trading System in Mexico: Rationale, Design and Connections with the Global Climate Agenda
This Open Access book provides detailed information about the incoming Mexican Emissions Trading System, including an analysis on why the system was implemented, how the system was designed, how it operates, how it could work, and how it could be strengthened by 2023 when it will be formally launched. This document is aimed at those who want to understand how an ETS can operate in an emerging economy. Although it has been written for experts and non-experts, this book does not provide the underlying theory of market-based instruments and emissions trading systems in general. The book can be read from start to finish, but can also be used as a reference for specific components of regional ETSs. The book draws upon a meticulous study of background documents and fieldwork from different authors to tell the story of how a Mexican ETS, the first of its kind in Latin America, can be set in the country. The emissions trading system cover many greenhouse gas emissions and has been hailed as one of the cornerstones of the Mexican climate policy. The book also examines and explains how the ETS is designed and implemented.
Towards an Emissions Trading System in Mexico: Rationale, Design and Connections with the Global Climate Agenda
This Open Access book provides detailed information about the incoming Mexican Emissions Trading System, including an analysis on why the system was implemented, how the system was designed, how it operates, how it could work, and how it could be strengthened by 2023 when it will be formally launched. This document is aimed at those who want to understand how an ETS can operate in an emerging economy. Although it has been written for experts and non-experts, this book does not provide the underlying theory of market-based instruments and emissions trading systems in general. The book can be read from start to finish, but can also be used as a reference for specific components of regional ETSs. The book draws upon a meticulous study of background documents and fieldwork from different authors to tell the story of how a Mexican ETS, the first of its kind in Latin America, can be set in the country. The emissions trading system cover many greenhouse gas emissions and has been hailed as one of the cornerstones of the Mexican climate policy. The book also examines and explains how the ETS is designed and implemented.
Sound Design for Film
Sound Design for Film offers an in-depth study of one of cinema's most powerful storytelling tools, exploring the creative landscape and proposing a variety of contemporary approaches to audio design. Opening up a hidden world of narrative techniques, experienced designer Tim Harrison provides key insights into how sound works on audiences to guide them through stories. Topics covered include: the creative process from script to delivery; visualizing your design ideas; developing characters and settings, and using motif and metaphor. Also covered is recording foley and sound effects along with editing and manipulating audio and the final mix. Serving as a tool for creative reflection and development, this unique book offers invaluable approaches for enhancing your storytelling skills, wherever you are on your filmmaking journey.
Our Dangerous Friend
In a world where global wildfires increasingly dominate the news headlines, can the Australian experience help? The management of fire in the southern continent is, after all, based on some 40,000 years or more of practice. Australian bushfire is a dangerous friend, but are scientific papers written and refereed by non-Aboriginal scientists the most reliable form of information on any aspect of this natural phenomenon? This book, through a series of essays, suggests that the indigenous Noongar people of south-west Australia deliberately used fire for a very, very long time to manage ecosystems for their safety and convenience, and, significantly, for the conservation of nature. Throughout, the essays suggest that any of non-Aboriginal descent should listen to the Elders, take heed from their past use of fire and once more harness the elemental force to judiciously conserve plant and animal life, let alone protect human lives and habitats. Aboriginal songlines with their reach back into distant antiquity, might well be a more reliable source of bushfire ecology than refereed scientific papers, some of which might be leading us up a garden path. A path that in comparison has but a scant few hundred years' worth of knowledge.
Urban Roar
Urban Roar argues for the existence of 'autonomous affectivities' that roar beneath the din of the urban, seeking the attention of us humans so captured by the environments of our own making. In hearing the urban roar, it is the mythic intention of this book to discover ways in which we can work with the intensities of more-than-human forces to vitalize our cities. The book explores methods by which artists, particularly those sound artists involved in fieldwork practices, might encounter and translate autonomous affectivities between different environments. Of particular interest is Jung's concept of synchronicity and its relationship to artistic creation - as experience, flow and catalyst - in manifesting autonomous affectivities into diverse and affective environments. The book makes use of both theoretical and practical approaches: from a study of scholarship through which it is argued that an autonomous affectivity is equivalent to an archetype (via Jung) and an essence (via Deleuze's reading of Spinoza), to theoretical considerations of the situated body in everyday contexts, to practical study of an artistic research experiment designed to reveal and index autonomous affectivities encountered during fieldwork practices, for the purpose of influencing urban design interventions. In this fresh analysis, Lacey reveals the possibilities in urban environments.
Harvesting Solar Energy
This book deals with existing technologies of solar energy conversion as well as novel methods under consideration in academic and commercial R&D sites. The experimental results presented in the work are well crafted by both analytical and first-principle numerical simulations. The book highlights the real potential for economically justified use of solar energy at every household and/or commercial solar farms. The ever-improving methods of thin-film epitaxial growth combined with a better understanding of the sun light absorption and antireflection are highlighted. While there was a period when the material quality was considered to be cornerstone of the conversion efficiency followed by substantial efforts to optimize multiple-cell architecture, it became clear that many old ideas such as variable band gap, multi-junction intrinsic region, as well as solar tracking mechanisms offer new possibilities for improved harvesting of energy. Amplifying the importance of materialsselection efficient design of the photo-voltaic elements various aspects of the production cost and the impact on the environment are discussed. In addition, the eligibility of the proposed production technologies in the current photovoltaic market are evaluated and confirmed.
Electrochemical Methods for the Micro- and Nanoscale
Are electrochemical methods like asking the crystal ball? Once you read this book about electrochemistry on the micro- and nanoscale, you know it better. This textbook presents the essentials of electrochemical theory, sheds light on the instrumentation, including details on the electronics, and in the second part, discusses a wide variety of classical and advanced methods. The third part of the book covers how to apply the techniques for selected aspects of material science, microfabrication, nanotechnology, MEMS, NEMS, and energy applications. With this book, you will be able to successfully apply the methods in the fields of sensors, neurotechnology, biomedical engineering, and electrochemical energy systems. Undergraduate or Master students can read the book linearly as a comprehensive textbook. For Ph.D. students, postdoctoral researchers as well as for researchers in industry, the book will help by its clear structure to get fast answers from a specific section. The detailed understanding of the methods helps the reader successfully apply electrochemistry, especially at the micro- and nanoscale. Selected aspects illustrate the application of electrochemical methods in the fields of sensors, neurotechnology, biomedical engineering, and electrochemical energy systems.
