This book gathers the proceedings of the Multidisciplinary International Conference of Research Applied to Defense and Security (MICRADS), held at the Eloy Alfaro Military Academy (ESMIL) in Quito, Ecuador, on May 13-15,2020. It covers a broad range of topics in systems, communication, and defense; strategy and political-administrative vision in defense; and engineering and technologies applied to defense. Given its scope, it offers a valuable resource for practitioners, researchers, and students alike.

This book systematically reviews the history of lead-free piezoelectric materials, including the latest research. It also addresses a number of important issues, such as new types of materials prepared in a multitude of sizes, structural and physical properties, and potential applications for high-performance devices. Further, it examines in detail the state of the art in lead-free piezoelectric materials, focusing on the pathways to modify different structures and achieve enhanced physical properties and new functional behavior. Lastly, it discusses the prospects for potential future developments in lead-free piezoelectric materials across disciplines and for multifunctional applications. Given its breadth of coverage, the book offers a comprehensive resource for graduate students, academic researchers, development scientists, materials producers, device designers and applications engineers who are working on or are interested in advanced lead-free piezoelectric materials.

This book provides a comprehensive review of functional nanomaterials for electrochemical applications, presenting interesting examples of nanomaterials with different dimensions and their applications in electrochemical energy storage. It also discusses the synthesis of functional nanomaterials, including quantum dots; one-dimensional, two-dimensional and three-dimensional nanostructures; and advanced nanocomposites. Highlighting recent advances in current electrochemical energy storage hotpots: lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, other metal-ion batteries, halogen ion batteries, and metal-gas batteries, this book will appeal to readers in the various fields of chemistry, material science and engineering.

This peer-reviewed book explores the technologies driving broadband internet connectivity in the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). It particularly focuses on potential solutions to introduce these technologies in emerging markets and rural areas, regions that typically form part of the digital divide and often have under-developed telecommunications infrastructures, a lack of skilled workers, and geographical restrictions that limit broadband connectivity. Research shows that ubiquitous internet access boosts socio-economic growth through innovations in science and technology, with the common goal of bringing positive change to the lives of individuals. Fifth-generation (5G) networks based on millimeter-wave (mm-wave) frequency information transfer have the potential to provide future-proof, affordable and sustainable broadband connectivity in areas where previous-generation mobile networks were unable to do so. This book discusses the principles of various technologies that enable electronic circuits to operate at mm-wave frequencies. It examines the importance of identifying, describing, and analyzing technology from a purely technological standpoint, but also acknowledges and investigates the challenges and limitations of introducing such technologies in emerging markets. Presenting recent research, the book spearheads participation in Industry 4.0 in these areas.

This book describes an original improvement in power quality of photovoltaic generation systems obtained by the use of a multilevel inverter implemented with level doubling network (LDN). Modulation principles and harmonic analysis of output voltages are proposed and introduced in detail for both single and three-phase LDN configurations. The analysis is then extended to dc-link current and voltage, with emphasis to low-frequency harmonics and switching frequency ripple. This work represents the first comprehensive implementation of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) schemes using the ripple correlation control (RCC) algorithm in the presence of multiple ripple harmonics, such as in the case of multi level inverters. Numerical simulations and experimental tests are carefully reported here, together with practical insights into the design of dc-link capacitors.

This book discusses the use of efficient metaheuristic algorithms to solve diverse power system problems, providing an overview of the various aspects of metaheuristic methods to enable readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field and of conducting studies on specific metaheuristic algorithms related to power-system applications. By bridging the gap between recent metaheuristic techniques and novel power system methods that benefit from the convenience of metaheuristic methods, it offers power system practitioners who are not metaheuristic computation researchers insights into the techniques, which go beyond simple theoretical tools and have been adapted to solve important problems that commonly arise. On the other hand, members of the metaheuristic computation community learn how power engineering problems can be translated into optimization tasks, and it is also of interest to engineers and application developers. Further, since each chapter can be read independently, the relevant information can be quickly found. Power systems is a multidisciplinary field that addresses the multiple approaches used for design and analysis in areas ranging from signal processing, and electronics to computational intelligence, including the current trend of metaheuristic computation.

Many events that affect global energy production and consumption have occurred since the second edition of Energy in the 21st Century appeared in 2011. For example, an earthquake and tsunami in Japan led to the disruption of the Fukushima nuclear facility and a global re-examination of the safety of the nuclear industry. Oil and natural gas prices continue to be volatile, and the demand for energy has been affected by the global economy. The third edition updates data and the discussion of recent events.Energy in the 21st Century has been used as the text for an introductory energy course for the general college student population. Based on student feedback, we have included several features that enhance the value of the third edition as a textbook. In particular, we have included learning objectives at the beginning of each chapter, end of chapter activities, a comprehensive index, and a glossary. Points to Ponder are abbreviated as P2P in the Learning Objectives boxes and are provided throughout the text. They are designed to encourage the reader to consider the material from different perspectives.

As the world continues to evolve technologically, people depend more heavily on energy-dependent systems to fulfill their daily needs. However, as these needs grow, it is important to develop sustainable systems that are reliable, as well as environmentally sound. Sustaining Power Resources through Energy Optimization and Engineering highlights the sustainable development and efficient operation of energy systems being provided to consumers. Featuring emergent research and trends within the area of power optimization and engineering, this book is a crucial reference source for engineers, researchers, sustainability experts, and professionals interested in the improvement and usage of infrastructural energy systems.

This book provides a clear and basic understanding of the concept of reservoir engineering to professionals and students in the oil and gas industry. The content contains detailed explanations of key theoretic and mathematical concepts and provides readers with the logical ability to approach the various challenges encountered in daily reservoir/field operations for effective reservoir management. Chapters are fully illustrated and contain numerous calculations involving the estimation of hydrocarbon volume in-place, current and abandonment reserves, aquifer models and properties for a particular reservoir/field, the type of energy in the system and evaluation of the strength of the aquifer if present. The book is written in oil field units with detailed solved examples and exercises to enhance practical application. It is useful as a professional reference and for students who are taking applied and advanced reservoir engineering courses in reservoir simulation, enhanced oil recovery and well test analysis.

This book presents new findings on cyber-physical systems design and modelling approaches based on AI and data-driven techniques, identifying the key industrial challenges and the main features of design and modelling processes. To enhance the efficiency of the design process, it proposes new approaches based on the concept of digital twins. Further, it substantiates the scientific, practical, and methodological approaches to modelling and simulating of cyber-physical systems. Exploring digital twins of cyber-physical systems as well as of production systems, it proposes combining both mathematical models and data processing techniques as advanced methods for cyber-physical system design and modelling. Moreover, it presents the implementation of the developed prototypes, including testing in real industries, which have collected and analyzed big data and proved their effectiveness. The book is intended for practitioners, enterprise representatives, scientists, and Ph.D. and master's students interested in the research and applications of cyber-physical systems in different domains.

This book introduces readers to the fundamental physics and chemistry of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), followed by discussions on recent advances in low platinum electrocatalysis and related catalyst development for PEMFC (the book's primary focus), methods of membrane electrode assembly (MEA) fabrication for low platinum catalysts, and durability issues in connection with MEA. While energy and environmental issues are becoming the two main subjects in global sustainable development, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), a clean and efficient new energy technology, has attracted more and more attention in recent years The major hurdle for more extensive applications of the PEMFC, especially for the automotive sector, is the high platinum loading requirement. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals and methods of low platinum PEMFC. This book is intended for researchers, engineers and graduate students in the fields of new energy technology, the fuel cell vehicle industry and fuel cell design.

Liquid loading can reduce production and shorten the life-cycle of a well costing a company millions in revenue. A handy guide on the latest techniques, equipment, and chemicals used in de-watering gas wells, Gas Well Deliquification, 2nd ed. continues to be the engineer's choice for recognizing and minimizing the effects of liquid loading. The second edition serves as a guide discussing the most frequently used methods and tools used to diagnose liquid loading problems and reduce the detrimental effects of liquid loading on gas production.
With new extensive chapters on Coal Bed Methane and Production Automation Gas Well Deliquification, 2nd edition proves to be the essential reference for operating engineers, reservoir engineers, consulting engineers and service companies who supply gas well equipment New to this second edition, Gas Well Deliquification provides managers with a comprehensive look into the methods of successful Production Automation as well as tools for the profitable use, production and supervision of Coalbed gases.
-Turnkey solutions for the problems of liquid loading interference
-Based on decades of practical, easy to use methods of de-watering gas wells
-Expands on the 1st edition's useful reference with new methods for utilizing Production Automation and managing Coal Bed Methane

This book addresses the fundamental changes that the Italian public utilities sector has undergone in the last two decades. Since the late 1990s, liberalisation and privatisation have replaced state-owned monopolies at both the national and local level, new technologies have created a broad range of new opportunities for power generation and distribution, and a redesigned public policy agenda has brought to the fore a whole set of new priorities. In this fast-changing environment, firms have redrawn their strategies, redesigned their business architectures and models, invested in infrastructure and R&D, taken advantage of growth opportunities at home and abroad, opened up their ownership structure, revised their offerings, and developed a new approach to customers. As a result, a radically altered market structure has emerged. As the sector tackles the overriding challenge of sustainability and energy transition, the book takes stock of such past and ongoing developments through the direct testimonies of various stakeholders: the companies in the energy, water, and waste management sectors that are at the forefront of this sweeping transformation; regulators; financial partners; and management consulting firms. The diversity of perspectives and wealth of information presented make this book a valuable resource for anyone wanting to grasp the direction, intensity and causes of change, as well as the nature of the challenges that lie ahead. This work has been prepared as part of the research activities of the Observatory on Alliances and Strategies in the Pan-European Utility Market, one of Agici's Research and Advisory units.

This book focuses on the advanced control of reduced dc-link capacitance AC motor drives. Compared with the conventional AC motor drives, the reduced DC-link capacitance motor drives could reduce the cost, enhance the reliability and improve the power density. The control strategies proposed in this book are verified by experimental results, which include high power factor control, drive system stability control, beat phenomenon suppression, enhanced flux-weakening control, anti-overvoltage control, etc. The major features of this book are the systematic analysis, effective and optimized control of the practical issues in industry application, which could help readers to learn the reduced dc-link capacitance PMSM drives and promote the drive system application. This book could benefit researchers, engineers, and students in the field of AC motor drives.

This book includes new findings on socio-economic cyber systems control and development approaches based on AI and data-driven techniques. The authors determine key social challenges and the main features of management and modeling processes. To enhance the efficiency of the socio-economic process, new approaches were suggested as well as its components based on the concept of Society 5.0. In this book, the authors substantiate the scientific, practical, and methodological approaches to the smart technologies' development. The core is a human-centered concept of cyber systems as well as the intelligent paradigm. Approaches combined both mathematical models and data processing techniques are also proposed as advanced methods for smart system design for ecology and health care. The implementations of the developed prototypes, including testing in real domains, which have collected and analyzed big data and proved their effectiveness, are presented. The target audience of the book are practitioners, enterprise representatives, scientists, and Ph.D. and Master students who perform scientific research or applications of socio-economic cyber systems in different domains.

This book presents research dedicated to solving scientific and technological problems in many areas of electronics, photonics and renewable energy. Energy and information are interconnected and are essential elements for the development of human society. Transmission, processing and storage of information requires energy consumption, while the efficient use and access to new energy sources requires new information (ideas and expertise) and the design of novel systems such as photovoltaic devices, fuel cells and batteries. Semiconductor physics creates the knowledge base for the development of information (computers, cell phones, etc.) and energy (photovoltaic) technologies. The exchange of ideas and expertise between these two technologies is critical and expands beyond semiconductors. Continued progress in information and renewable energy technologies requires miniaturization of devices and reduction of costs, energy and material consumption. The latest generation of electronic devices is now approaching nanometer scale dimensions, new materials are being introduced into electronics manufacturing at an unprecedented rate, and alternative technologies to mainstream CMOS are evolving. Nanotechnology is widely accepted as a source of potential solutions in securing future progress for information and energy technologies. Semiconductor Nanotechnology features chapters that cover the following areas: atomic scale materials design, bio- and molecular electronics, high frequency electronics, fabrication of nanodevices, magnetic materials and spintronics, materials and processes for integrated and subwave optoelectronics, nanoCMOS, new materials for FETs and other devices, nanoelectronics system architecture, nano optics and lasers, non-silicon materials and devices, chemical and biosensors, quantum effects in devices, nano science and technology applications in the development of novel solar energy devices, and fuel cells and batteries.

Energy: Technology and Directions for the Future presents the fundamentals of energy for scientists and engineers. It is a survey of energy sources that will be available for use in the 21st century energy mix. The reader will learn about the history and science of several energy sources as well as the technology and social significance of energy. Themes in the book include thermodynamics, electricity distribution, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, solar energy, nuclear energy, alternate energy (wind, water, biomass), energy and society, energy and the environment, sustainable development, the hydrogen economy, and energy forecasting. The approach is designed to present an intellectually rich and interesting text that is also practical.This is accomplished by introducing basic concepts in the context of energy technologies and, where appropriate, in historical context. Scientific concepts are used to solve concrete engineering problems.
The technical level of presentation presumes that readers have completed college level physics with calculus and mathematics through calculus of several variables. The selection of topics is designed to provide the reader with an introduction to the language, concepts and techniques used in all major energy components that are expected to contribute to the 21st century energy mix. Future energy professionals will need to understand the origin and interactions of these energy components to thrive in an energy industry that is evolving from an industry dominated by fossil fuels to an industry working with many energy sources.
*Presents the fundamentals of energy production for engineers, scientists, engineering professors, students, and anyone in the field who needs a technical discussion of energy topics.
*Provides engineers with a valuable expanded knowledge base using the U.S. National Academy of Sciences content standards.
*Examines the energy options for the twenty-first century as older energy sources quickly become depleted.

This book presents original, peer-reviewed research papers from the 4th Purple Mountain Forum -International Forum on Smart Grid Protection and Control (PMF2019-SGPC), held in Nanjing, China on August 17-18, 2019. Addressing the latest research hotspots in the power industry, such as renewable energy integration, flexible interconnection of large scale power grids, integrated energy system, and cyber physical power systems, the papers share the latest research findings and practical application examples of the new theories, methodologies and algorithms in these areas. As such book a valuable reference for researchers, engineers, and university students.

This book is a relevant reference for any readers interested in the security aspects of Cyber-Physical Systems and particularly useful for those looking to keep informed on the latest advances in this dynamic area. Cyber-Physical Systems (CPSs) are characterized by the intrinsic combination of software and physical components. Inherent elements often include wired or wireless data communication, sensor devices, real-time operation and automated control of physical elements. Typical examples of associated application areas include industrial control systems, smart grids, autonomous vehicles and avionics, medial monitoring and robotics. The incarnation of the CPSs can therefore range from considering individual Internet-of-Things devices through to large-scale infrastructures. Presented across ten chapters authored by international researchers in the field from both academia and industry, this book offers a series of high-quality contributions that collectively address and analyze the state of the art in the security of Cyber-Physical Systems and related technologies. The chapters themselves include an effective mix of theory and applied content, supporting an understanding of the underlying security issues in the CPSs domain, alongside related coverage of the technological advances and solutions proposed to address them. The chapters comprising the later portion of the book are specifically focused upon a series of case examples, evidencing how the protection concepts can translate into practical application.

This book is a compilation of selected papers from the fifth International Symposium on Software Reliability, Industrial Safety, Cyber Security and Physical Protection of Nuclear Power Plant, held in November 2020 in Beijing, China. The purpose of this symposium is to discuss Inspection, test, certification and research for the software and hardware of Instrument and Control (I&C) systems in nuclear power plants (NPP), such as sensors, actuators and control system. It aims to provide a platform of technical exchange and experience sharing for those broad masses of experts and scholars and nuclear power practitioners, and for the combination of production, teaching and research in universities and enterprises to promote the safe development of nuclear power plant. Readers will find a wealth of valuable insights into achieving safer and more efficient instrumentation and control systems.

This book presents how to program Single Board Computers (SBCs) for Internet of Things (IoT) rapid prototyping with popular tools such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Beagle Bone, and NXP boards. The book provides novel programs to solve new technological real-time problems. The author addresses programming, PCB design and Mechanical Cad design all in single volume, easing learners into incorporating their ideas as prototype. The aim of the book is to provide programming, sensors interfacing, PCB design, and Mechanical Cad design to and create rapid prototyping. The author presents the methodologies of rapid prototyping with KiCAD design and Catia software, used to create ready to mount solutions. The book covers scripting- based and drag/drop- based programming for different problems and data gathering approach.