This book presents a global and historical perspective of energy flows during the last millennium. The search for sustainable energy is a key issue dominating today's energy regime. This book details the historical evolution of energy, following the overlapping and slow flowing transitions from one regime to another. In doing so it seeks to provide insight into future energy transitions and the means of utilizing sustainable energy sources to reduce humanity's fossil fuel footprint. The book begins with an examination of the earliest and most basic forms of energy use, namely, that of humans metabolizing food in order to work, with the first transition following the domestication and breeding of horses and other animals. The book also examines energy sources key to development during the industrialization and mechanization, such as wood and coal, as well as more recent sources, such as crude oil and nuclear energy. The book then assesses energy flows that are at the forefront of sustainability, by examining green sources, such as solar, wind power and hydropower. While it is easy to see energy flows in terms of "revolutions," transitions have taken centuries to evolve, and transitions are never fully global, as, for example, wood remains the primary fuel source for cooking in much of the developing world. This book not only demonstrates the longevity of energy transitions but also discusses the possibility for reducing transition times when technological developments provide inexpensive and safe energy sources that can reduce the dependency on fossil fuels. This book will be of great interest to students and scholars of energy transitions, sustainable energy and environmental and energy history.

This valuable volume provides a broad understanding of the main computational techniques used for processing reclamation of fluid and solid mechanics. The aim of these computational techniques is to reduce and eliminate the risks of mechanical systems failure in hydraulic machines. Using many computational methods for mechanical engineering problems, the book presents not only a platform for solving problems but also provides a wealth of information to address various technical aspects of troubleshooting of mechanical system failure. The focus of the book is on practical and realistic fluids engineering experiences. Many photographs and figures are included, especially to illustrate new design applications and new instruments.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. This compendium volume contains the most current technical and economic analyses of emerging waste disposal strategies. The editor, a well-respected researcher in this field, has selected articles that will be valuable to readers who range from engineers and academics to decision-makers in both the public and private sectors. Several international case studies give practical applications and examples of the various technologies and approaches. A final section discusses policy planning for the future.

In this valuable volume, new and original research on various topics on chemical engineering and technology is presented on modeling and simulation, material synthesis, wastewater treatment, analytical techniques, and microreactors. The research presented here can be applied to technology in food, paper and pulp, polymers, petrochemicals, surface coatings, oil technology aspects, among other uses. The book is divided into five sections: modeling and simulation environmental applications materials and applications processes and applications analytical methods Topics include: modeling and simulation of chemical processes process integration and intensification separation processes advances in unit operations and processes chemical reaction engineering fuel and energy advanced materials CFD and transport processes wastewater treatment The valuable research presented here will be of interest to researchers, scientists, industry practitioners, as well as upper-level students.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. Edited by a leading researcher in the field, this book provides an overview of waste valorization and includes the editor's research in addition to other experts and recent and relevant studies on this critical topic. It covers treatment and pretreatment technologies and methodologies, energy recovery from solid wastes, recycling and reuse, additional cutting-edge valorization methodologies. Primarily aimed at researchers and advanced students in biochemical, engineering, and environmental fields, this book should also provide a valuable reference for municipal legislators and industry practitioners.

This important new book covers recent advancements, innovations, and technologies in industrial biotechnology, specifically addressing the application of various biomolecules in industrial production and in cleaning and environmental remediation sectors. The goal of industrial biotechnology is to develop new techniques and technologies to transform renewable raw materials into chemicals, materials, and fuels by the substitution of fossil fuels. With the increase in the world's population and the resultant growing energy demand, the need for more energy can be successfully met with the advancements in industrial biotechnology. Currently across the globe significant research has been undertaken in the production of cleaner fuels, materials, and semi-synthetic chemicals, with environmental benefits. Developing countries have huge agricultural resources that could be utilized for production of value-added byproducts for the sustainable development of bio-based economy. The book opens with the chapter on the production of exopolysaccharides from halophilic microorganisms, a polymer that is normally very useful in various production sectors of the food, pharmaceutical, and petroleum industries. The book goes on to cover: The production of antimicrobial compounds from alkaliphilic bacteria Thermophilic actinomycetes Food, agro, and pharmaceutical potential and biotechnological applications of biosurfactants, halophiles, cyclodextrin glycosyl transferease, fungal chitinase, proteases, yeasts and yeast products Also covered in the book are the environmental aspects of industrial biotechnology such as the genetic enhancement for biofuel production, the production of biodegradable thermoplastics, advancements in the synthesis of bio-oil, ecofriendly treatment of agro-based lignocelluloses, and anaerobic bio reactors for hydrocarbon remediation. The international roster of chapter authors have been chosen for their renowned expertise and contribution to the various fields of industrial biotechnology. This book is suitable to chemists, biotechnologists from research institutes, academia, and students as well as for industry professionals

The use of mathematical modeling in engineering allows for a significant reduction of material costs associated with design, production, and operation of technical objects, but it is important for an engineer to use the available computational approaches in modeling correctly. Taking into account the level of modern computer technology, this new volume explains how an engineer should properly define the physical and mathematical problem statement, choose the computational approach, and solve the problem by proven reliable computational approach using computer and software applications during the solution of a particular problem. This work is the result of years of the authors' research and experience in the fields of power and rocket engineering where they put into practice the methods of mathematical modeling shown in this valuable volume. The examples in the book are based on two approaches. The first approach involves the use of the relatively simple mathematical system MathCad. The second one involves the solving of problems using Intel Visual Fortran compiler with IMSL Libraries. The use of other software packages (Maple, MathLab, Mathematica) or compilers ( , ++, Visual Basic) for code is equally acceptable in the solution of the problems given in the book. Intended for professors and instructors, scientific researchers, students, and industry professionals, the book will help readers to choose the most appropriate mathematical modeling method to solve engineering problems, and the authors also include methods that allow for the solving of nonmathematical problems as mathematical problems.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. The information contained in this compendium volume sets the stage for the future's large-scale production of biofuels. Biomass is an abundant carbon-neutral renewable feedstock for producing fuel. First-generation biofuels gained attention for their problems, but the authors of this book demonstrate that they are well on their way to creating practical and sustainable second-generation biofuels. The book begins with an introduction to synthetic biology. Next, it covers pretreatment technologies, advanced microbial technologies, genetic engineering as it relates to biofuel technologies, and nanotechnology and chemical engineering in relation to biofuels. Well-respected in his field, the editor's firsthand experience gives him the perspective to create a thorough review of the relevant literature. Each chapter is written by experts in biotechnologies, offering graduate and post-doctorate students, as well as other scientific researchers, a wide-angle look at biofuel technologies. At the same time, this volume points to promising directions for new research.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. Sustainability demands that we meet the needs of our present world without compromising the needs of future generations. As a result, sources and methodologies for renewable energy are being urgently investigated. Biomassoffers one of the most readily implemented, low-cost alternatives to fossil fuels. First-generation biofuels proved to have limited sustainability, but today's advanced biofuels are developing more efficient processes. This book contains the latest research on catalytic processing, a promising technology for making biofuel production truly sustainable. Included here are: Several overview chapters, describing analytic methods for assessing catalytic sustainability. Chapters that investigate several reaction routes for sustainable catalytic conversion. A final chapter on methodologies for optimizing catalytic reactions. Written for readers with university-level understanding of chemistry, biology, and engineering, this compendium volume offers evidence that catalytic processing is a flexible and sustainable methodology for the conversion ofbiomass platforms. The editor, one of the leading figures in this area of study, has collected research that covers key issues of interest to fuel and energy technologists and engineers. The comprehensive coverage of current research will also offer scientists a solid foundation for future research in this critical field of investigation.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. The world's interest in reducing petroleum use has led to the rapid development of the biofuel industry over the past decade or so. However, there is increasing concern over how current food-based biofuels affect both food security and the environment. Second-generation biofuels, however, use widely available sources such as non-food lignocellulosic-based biomass and fats, oils, and greases. They make practical consideration of how land use can simultaneously support both the world's food needs and some of its energy needs. This volume consolidates some of the most recent investigations into these issues. The chapters focus on these categories of research: The problems currently connected with biofuels relating to land use and the environment Investigations into the potential for land use to be managed more effectively and sustainably Research that focuses on new and developing options for second-generation biofuels This volume is recommended for all biofuel researchers, from the PhD student to the experienced scientist. It also offers an essential foundation to anyone interested in how biofuels relate to the future of our world.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. The world needs renewable and clean forms of energy. Biofuels offer an alternative to fossil fuels, but first-generation biofuels had many challenges to be overcome. One strategy that second-generation biofuels are employing is microbial technology. This compendium volume gathers together recent investigations within this vital field of research. It offers: An overview of the topic Investigations into the varieties of microorganisms useful for this technology Pretreatment methodologies Genetic engineering research that will further this technology Internationally recognized experts contribute chapters on their individual areas of research within this vital field of study. The book offers an authoritative platform from which graduate students and scientists can build future investigations that will create still more advanced biofuels.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. As the world's energy hunger grows ever larger, fossil fuel reserves are diminishing-and concerns about climate change remind us that our love affair with fossil fuels cannot continue much longer. This has inspired intense research into sustainable energy sources. Biofuels seemed initially promising, but the world soon realized that food-based biofuel has its own dangers. Second-generation biofuels, however, use biomass from crops' inedible parts-such as the stalks and leaves of sugarcane-offering a far more practical, sustainable, and commercially viable solution. In this book, researchers from around the world review some of the most important and timely topics related to using sugarcane feedstock for biofuel. After a basic overview, topics such as these are included: Pretreatment methods The use of various microbial technologies, including bacteria and yeast, to enhance biofuel production Environmental impacts Economic feasibility The viability of electricity being produced side by side with biofuel Essential reading for graduate students and research scientists investigating second-generation biofuels, this book is also recommended for environmentalists, environmental engineers, and microbiologists.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. The practice of converting corn to ethanol is controversial, with debates currently being raged in both public policy and science. While biofuels from corn have important implications in alleviating some of the global energy crisis, critics argue that it takes away from vital agricultural products needed to feed the world's growing population. The current volume maintains there is a third way, a method of producing biofuel that only uses biomass that is left behind after all agricultural and nutritional products have been harvested from corn. This biomass is referred to as corn stover. The book serves as an important introduction to this method of producing biofuels from agricultural waste. Edited by a professor from the State University of New York, Geneseo, this reference is important not only for research scientists, but for students and public policy makers who wish to learn more about this alternative method of producing ethanol from corn. The sections found in Fuel Production from Non-Food Biomass: Corn Stover describe the following topics: An overview of why corn stover is a good alternative use of power The technology that makes this process possible on various scales Considerations for policy formation, including economic, land-use, and environmental arguments for and against using corn stover as a biofuel Although controversy still exists about the use of corn stover-with some critics saying that it will cause food shortages, particularly for developing nations-the research in this book focuses on using corn's already existing, non-food biomass and argues that food and biofuel could potentially be produced from the same fields.

Biofuel production from waste biomass is increasingly being focused on due to due to several advantages of lignocellulosic biomass, such as availability in abundance from several sources, cost-effectiveness, little competition with food sources, etc. This new volume, Sustainable Biofuel and Biomass: Advances and Impacts, provides an abundance of in-depth information on many types of biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass and also describes biomass sources and their availability for biofuel production. This compiled book features 17 chapters that discuss the different aspects of biofuel production from lignocellulosic biomass. Chapters deal with different types lipase-mediated biofuel production, biohydrogen production from lignocellulosic biomass, triacylglycrol biosynthetic pathways in plants for biofuel applications, the industrial prospects of lignocellulosic bioethanol production, biofuel cell production, potential feedstocks availability for bioethanol production, biofuel production from algal biomass, and many other important topics.

This volume provides a good understanding of the binary fluid system, highlighting new dimensions of the existing Kalina cycle system, a thermodynamic process for converting thermal energy into usable mechanical power. The book illustrates that providing new flexibility leads to new research outcomes and possible new projects in this field. The information provided in the book simplifies the application of the Kalina cycle system with an easy-to-understand and thorough explanation of properties development, processes solutions, sub-system work, and total system work. There are currently no books available in the area of binary fluid system in the field of KCS with added fallibility in the operation and process design. Currently decentralized power systems are gaining more attention due to shortages in power, and cooling demands are competing with other electrical loads. This book fills a valuable information gap, providing insight into a new dimension for designers, practicing engineers, and academicians in this area.

Energy is one of the prime needs of the modern world, and energy demands have been rapidly increasing in the recent years owing to rapid advancements in industrialization and population explosion. Conventional fossil fuels are being depleted at rapid rates, and the use of conventional sources such as coal or nuclear sources cause several hazards to the environment. New sources of fuel, such as bioenergy, are an ideal option for fulfilling ever-increasing energy demands. This important book offers an exploration of these alternate fuel sources, including biohydrogen, microbial fuel cells, bioethanol, and biodiesel production, focusing on the challenges and factors hindering the real-time application of these bioenergy sources. Researchers all over the world are working in this energy sector, and this has led to drastic improvements in bioenergy research. However, the technology gap between research and industrial application still exists. This important book offers engineers and technologists from different disciplines valuable information on this multifaceted field. The field of bioenergy is interdisciplinary, requiring the knowledge of biologists, chemists, physicists, and engineers. Exploring the current trends and future prospects for biofuels, the information presented in this book will be valuable to the international industrial community for identifying new options to circumvent problems that exist in bioenergy applications. Topics include: * Thermophilic biohydrogen production * Bio-hydrogen production * Microbial fuel cells as a promising alternative energy source * Microbial fuel cell applications * Potential of Pscillatoria annae in producing bioethanol * Potential of lignocellulosic biofuels * Biodiesel production * Reactor designs for biodesel production * Long-term storage stability of Pongamia pinnata and Jatropha curcus biodiesel

Due to their high growth rate, algae, microalgae, and aquatic plants are becoming the most promising photosynthetic organisms for biofuel production. Advances in Biofuel Production: Algae and Aquatic Plants explores current investigations and application of the fields of biofuel production and bioengineering and considers from a global context the evolving processes of algal biofuel production. The book looks at how biomass, specifically sugars, nonedible plant materials, and algae (which are designated first, second, and third fuels respectively) are used in the production of fuel. The feasibility of such projects, current methodologies, and how to optimize biofuel production are presented.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking" as it is commonly known, refers to the practice of using liquids at very high pressures to fragment rock, thereby allowing natural gas to be harvested. This process increases energy resources but also has some negative environmental impacts as well. This book looks at the environmental impact. The first section looks at fracturing and the water supply, the second section looks at ecosystems and wildlife, while the final section examines the possible effects on human ecosystems and human health.

Mathematical Concepts for Mechanical Engineering Design provides a broad understanding of the main computational techniques used for simulation of water distribution networks and water transmission systems. It introduces the theoretical background to a number of techniques and general data analysis techniques. The book also examines the application of techniques in an industrial setting, including current practices and current research, are presented. It provides practical experience of commercially available systems and includes a small-scale water systems related projects. The authors illustrate the concepts and techniques covered in the book by using a calculation that simulates water distribution networks and water transmission systems. The book also covers significant research on new methodologies and important applications in the fields of automation and control as well as includes the latest coverage of chemical databases and the development of new computational methods and efficient algorithms for hydraulic software and mechanical engineering. The book will be informative and useful to both academics and mechanical engineers in various industrial sectors, including hydraulic and mechanical engineering.

This valuable new book focuses on new methods and techniques in fluid mechanics and heat transfer in mechanical engineering. The book includes the research of the authors on the development of optimal mathematical models and also uses modern computer technology and mathematical methods for the analysis of nonlinear dynamic processes. It covers technologies applicable to both fluid mechanics and heat transfer problems, which include a combination of physical, mechanical, and thermal techniques. The authors develop a new method for the calculation of mathematical models by computer technology, using parametric modeling techniques and multiple analyses for mechanical system.

This volume provides valuable insight into diverse topics related to mechanical engineering and presents state-of-the-art work on sustainable development being carried out throughout the world by budding researchers and scientists. Divided into three sections, the volume covers machine design, materials and manufacturing, and thermal engineering. It presents innovative research work on machine design that is of relevance to such varied fields as the automotive industry, agriculture, and human anatomy. The second section addresses materials characterization, an important tool in assessing proper materials for application-oriented jobs, and emerging unconventional machining processes that are important in design engineering for new products and tools. The section on thermal engineering broadly covers the use of viable alternate fuels, such as HHO, biodiesel, etc., with the objective of reducing the burden on petroleum reserves and the environment.

Applied Research in Hydraulics and Heat Flow covers modern subjects of mechanical engineering such as fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and flow control in complex systems as well as new aspects related to mechanical engineering education. The chapters help to enhance the understanding of both the fundamentals of mechanical engineering and their application to the solution of problems in modern industry. The book includes the most popular applications-oriented approach to engineering fluid mechanics and heat transfer. It offers a clear and practical presentation of all basic principles of fluid mechanics and heat transfer, tying theory directly to real devices and systems used in mechanical and chemical engineering. It presents new procedures for problem-solving and design, including measurement devices and computational fluid mechanics and heat transfer. This book is suitable for students, both in upper-level undergraduate and graduate mechanical engineering courses. The book also serves as a useful reference for academics, hydraulic engineers, and professionals in fields related to mechanical engineering who want to review basic principles and their applications in hydraulic engineering systems. This fundamental treatment of engineering hydraulics balances theory with practical design solutions to common engineering problems. The authors examine the most common topics in hydraulics, including hydrostatics, pipe flow, pipelines, pipe networks, pumps, hydraulic structures, water measurement devices, and hydraulic similitude and model studies. A glossary of terms, case studies, list of abbreviations, and recent references are included.

Processes for clearing gases from dust in wet-type dust separators are widely applied in many industries for technological purposes and environmental control. Among goals of these processes is to ensure high efficiency of dust removal with minimum energy costs. This book presents the newest scientific research data under the theory and practice of wet clearing of industrial gases from dispersion particles. The authors consider the modern aspects of the separation process and gas-dispersed impurities. The book covers three main sections on working out and research of the following types of wet gas purifiers: dynamic scrubbers, wet gas clean apparatuses of shock-inertial act, and bubble dust traps. Each section considers the engineering and technological aspects of circuit design, including the theoretical fundamentals of process of gas cleaning, trial and error methods and calculation of apparatuses of wet gas cleaning, and construction of new gas clean apparatuses, their operational characteristics, and recommendations about application In the literature there are no reliable methods of efficient clearing of gas emissions in scrubbers. This creates complexities at calculation and designing of these apparatuses and also complicates process intensification. The authors develop methods of calculation of process of gas cleaning on the basis of studying of hydrodynamic characteristics of apparatuses.

This title includes a number of Open Access chapters. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) refers to a set of technologies and methods for the mitigation, remediation, and storage of industrial CO2 emissions, the most imminent and virile of the greenhouse gases (GHG). The book addresses the methods and technologies currently being applied, developed, and most in need of further research. The book: * Discusses methods of carbon capture in industrial settings * Presents biological and geological approaches to carbon sequestration * Introduces ionic liquids as a method of carbon capture * Introduces new approaches to capturing CO2 from ambient air

Metallic Glass-Based Nanocomposites: Molecular Dynamics Study of Properties provides readers with an overview of the most commonly used tools for MD simulation of metallic glass composites and provides all the basic steps necessary for simulating any material on Materials Studio. After reading this book, readers will be able to model their own problems on this tool for predicting the properties of metallic glass composites. This book provides an introduction to metallic glasses with definitions and classifications, provides detailed explanations of various types of composites, reinforcements and matrices, and explores the basic mechanisms of reinforcement-MG interaction during mechanical loading. It explains various models for calculating the thermal conductivity of metallic glass composites and provides examples of molecular dynamics simulations. Aimed at students and researchers, this book caters to the needs of those working in the field of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of metallic glass composites.