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Extending the Life of Legacy Rotary Dryers
Rotary dryers are often in operation for many decades after their initial commissioning. This article provides a decision framework to consider whether to upgrade, repair or replace an aging rotary dryer Rotary dryers are fundamental to ensuring product quality and…
Alignment on worker chemical safety
In the U.S., worker chemical safety is a key concern at a wide range of industrial facilities. The current regulatory framework for worker chemical safety is overseen by two federal agencies: traditionally, by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA;…
Alkaline thermal process generates hydrogen fuel from mixed plastic waste
A team of researchers from the Ewha Women’s University (Seoul, South Korea; www.ewha.ac.kr) and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA; www.ucla.edu) have taken a step toward addressing one of the main challenges in plastics recycling — economically processing…
Printable gel electrolytes support bespoke battery architectures
Unlike conventional liquid electrolytes used in lithium-ion batteries, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) are immobilized within a polymer network, which reduces leakage risks, thereby improving mechanical and thermal stability. However, current methods for GPE fabrication result only in two-dimensional planar films,…
Novel microwave method reshapes thermal regeneration for direct-air CO2 capture
Many direct-air capture (DAC) technologies employ sorbent materials to remove CO2 from ambient air. These sorbents require periodic thermal regeneration — typically using steam — to release bound CO2. This thermal regeneration step is often the largest cost and energy…
Multivariable Sensors Offer Better Accuracy and Insight
Multivariable measurements can help optimize processes and drive sustainability With chemical manufacturers under pressure to gain a better understanding of their processes, improve operational efficiency and safety, control costs and provide accurate data to regulators, the use of multivariable process…
New electrochemical route to critical chemicals is scaling up with significant industrial support
A new electrochemical process developed by French-American startup firm Dioxycle (Paris, France; Menlo Park, Calif.; www.dioxycle.com) produces critical chemicals from industrial by-products and electricity, independent from fossil-fuel imports. Recently, the company announced the deployment of their platform for the conversion…
Eco-friendly method for making MOF-encapsulated enzymes expands possibilities
Enzyme-based biocatalysts are a key aspect of industrial green-chemistry initiatives, but they often don’t have the required stability to perform in industrial settings. A strategy for allowing enzymes to function longer and under harsher conditions has been to encapsulate them…
Bulk-Solids Storage and Flow: Silos and Stockpiles
This article provides guidance on the selection and sizing of silos and stockpiles in bulk-solids-handling operations, and clarifies misconceptions surrounding gravity-reclaim storage systems for bulk-solids materials Gravity-reclaim systems for bulk-solids handling rely solely on gravity to withdraw material from storage…
Overcoming Material-Transfer Challenges in Food Processing Applications
A customized material-transfer unit was designed for the in-house supply and transport of raw materials, seamlessly linking the process steps of dietary supplement manufacturing while minimizing contamination and dust The stringent demands of the food industry create significant challenges for…