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Research Article
Modelling Gas and Gasoline Production from Cottonseed Oil on Fixed-fluidized Bed Catalytic Cracking over Nbfeapso-5 Molecular Sieve
Nchare Mominou*,
Iyami Bintou Moctar,
Mboindi Njifehou Abdel Mahlik,
Anutebeh Verdo Zisuh
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
28-35
Received:
27 May 2025
Accepted:
12 June 2025
Published:
4 July 2025
Abstract: The potential for producing hydrocarbons from the conversion of biofuels has been the focus of attention in recent years. In a preliminary study, we observed that it was possible to produce biofuels from cottonseed oil by fixed-fluidized bed catalytic cracking at ambient pressure, using fluid catalytic cracker equilibrium catalyst. In the present work, the production of biofuels from cottonseed oil by fixed-fluidized bed catalytic cracking at ambient pressure, using niobium containing aluminophosphate molecular sieve (NbFeAPSO-5), was studied. The effect of reaction temperature (400-500°C), catalyst-to-oil ratio (6-10) and residence time (50-90 s) were studied. The response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum values of the operating variables for maximum yield of biofuels in the liquid product obtained. The optimum values of reaction temperature of 420.2°C, catalyst to oil ratio of 8.8 g/g and the residence time of 51 seconds were obtained for maximum yield of light fuel oil (≤ 360°C) 68.6 wt%, gasoline fraction (≤ 205°C) 37.7 wt% and minimum yield of gas 15.6 wt%. The catalytic cracking of cottonseed oil in a fixed-fluidized bed reactor produced a liquid product rich in gasoline and diesel fraction.
Abstract: The potential for producing hydrocarbons from the conversion of biofuels has been the focus of attention in recent years. In a preliminary study, we observed that it was possible to produce biofuels from cottonseed oil by fixed-fluidized bed catalytic cracking at ambient pressure, using fluid catalytic cracker equilibrium catalyst. In the present w...
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Research Article
Evaluation of Treatment Efficiency and Agricultural Suitability of Effluents from Bedele Brewery Share Company
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
36-50
Received:
5 June 2025
Accepted:
19 June 2025
Published:
19 August 2025
Abstract: In the world, brewing industry is one of an important industrial sector for food, economics, and employment. In the brewing industries water has a broad application in the entries process. However, after the entering of water to the sector, huge amount of water discharged as a wastewater. Bedele Brewery Share Company is one of the brewing industry in Bedele, Ethiopia and it treats its effluent before discharges into the nearby environments which can serve as an irrigation source for downstream farmers. In this study some physic-chemical, as well as biological parameters were analyzed accordingly. Amongst of physical parameters; temperature, pH, turbidity and EC were determined on-site by mercury thermometer, multimeter, Palin test, and multimeter respectively. A parameters such as; TS, TDS, TSS and VSS were determined by the gravimetric method in the laboratory. From the chemical parameters phosphate was determined by spectroscopic method and chloride as well as COD was determined by titration through Mohr’s method. BOD and from the biological parameters (microorganisms) were determined by incubation and dilution methods respectively. The percentage removal of most parameters was above 86% in three different days with slight variations in each parameter. The highest percentage removal was achieved for EC (87.08%), followed by TDS, TS and TSS (94.81%, 94.47% and 95.87%), in three days respectively. The results demonstrate that no statistically significant differences were found between results conducted in a three different days for each parameter. However, further improvement has been required for the treatment plant.
Abstract: In the world, brewing industry is one of an important industrial sector for food, economics, and employment. In the brewing industries water has a broad application in the entries process. However, after the entering of water to the sector, huge amount of water discharged as a wastewater. Bedele Brewery Share Company is one of the brewing industry ...
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Research Article
Reusable Ethylenediamine-Grafted Cellulose Fabric for Efficient Cu(II) and Pb(II) Removal from Water
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
51-61
Received:
19 July 2025
Accepted:
31 July 2025
Published:
20 August 2025
Abstract: In response to the growing problem of water contamination by heavy metals, this work presents the design of an innovative and promising bioadsorbent: a cellulose fabric functionalized through covalent grafting of ethylenediamine (Cell-EDA). The chemical modification was carried out in three successive steps: alkaline mercerization, tosylation in pyridine medium, and nucleophilic substitution. FTIR spectroscopy, supported by a semi-quantitative analysis of characteristic absorption bands, confirmed the successful introduction of amine groups. The adsorption performance was evaluated for Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions as a function of pH, contact time, and initial concentration. Maximum removal efficiencies reached 90% for Cu(II) at pH 4 and 96% for Pb(II) at pH 8. Kinetic studies followed a pseudo-second-order model, indicating chemisorption. The Freundlich and Temkin isotherms revealed multilayer adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces, while the Langmuir model yielded maximum adsorption capacities of 55.9 mg/g for Cu(II) and 131.6 mg/g for Pb(II), highlighting the strong retention capacity of the material. The Cell-EDA fabric retained over 75% of its adsorption efficiency after five consecutive cycles, demonstrating good stability and excellent reusability. The use of cellulose fabric, which offers greater mechanical strength than powder or paper-based supports, gives Cell-EDA significant potential for sustainable applications in the treatment of heavy metal-contaminated effluents.
Abstract: In response to the growing problem of water contamination by heavy metals, this work presents the design of an innovative and promising bioadsorbent: a cellulose fabric functionalized through covalent grafting of ethylenediamine (Cell-EDA). The chemical modification was carried out in three successive steps: alkaline mercerization, tosylation in py...
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Research Article
Comparative Biodegradation Studies of Butyl and Dodecyl - Functionalized Carbon Nanofibers Dispersed in Cellulose Acetate Polymer Nanocomposites
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
62-71
Received:
12 July 2025
Accepted:
4 August 2025
Published:
27 August 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijec.20250902.14
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Abstract: Biodegradable nanocomposites incorporating carbon nanofibers (CNFs) have gained significant traction due to their environmentally friendly nature. The use of functionalized CNFs enhances the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of nanocomposites. The ultimate properties and biodegradation rate of these nanocomposites are significantly influenced by the type and structure of the CNFs dispersed within the biodegradable polymer matrix. Nanocomposites were prepared by blending 0.2% w/w of the functionalized butyl, and dodecyl CNFs in cellulose acetate polymer matrix. The study sought to establish the effect of the butyl, and dodecyl moieties on the degradation rate of biodegradable cellulose acetate. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) were used to determine the dispersion of CNFs within the polymer matrix and the surface characteristics of the resulting nanocomposites. Respirometry (CO2 emission) and gravimetry (change in mass) techniques were used to determine the biodegradation rate of the nanocomposites. The study found out that incorporation of functionalized CNFs into the biodegradable polymer matrix had an impact on the biodegradation rates of the formed nanocomposites. From the cumulative amounts of CO2 evolved during the respirometry and cumulative weight lost during the test period, the nanocomposites had a reduced rate of degradation compared to the reference blank. This could be attributed to an increase in polymer crystallinity caused by the addition of the alky moieties that increased the adherence of the CNFs to the polymer matrix. Individual alky functionalized nanocomposite also had different rates of degradation with the butyl nanocomposite degrading much faster than the dodecyl, respectively. Overall, the results indicated a slight increase in the time required for the nanocomposite to degrade to less than 1% of the original sample as compared to the reference blank. The study and its findings have generated new scientific knowledge that could be relevant in the fabrication biodegradable nanocomposites based on a diverse range of other polymeric and nonpolymeric matrices and importantly approximately how long the fibers can be in the environment after their useful life.
Abstract: Biodegradable nanocomposites incorporating carbon nanofibers (CNFs) have gained significant traction due to their environmentally friendly nature. The use of functionalized CNFs enhances the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of nanocomposites. The ultimate properties and biodegradation rate of these nanocomposites are significantly inf...
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Research Article
Assessment of the Quality of Sachet (Packaged) Water Consumed in Kono District, Sierra Leone
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
72-89
Received:
6 September 2025
Accepted:
16 September 2025
Published:
9 October 2025
Abstract: A significant priority in developing countries, including Sierra Leone, is access to clean and safe drinking water, which is largely unavailable. Packaged water, often sold in sachets, is increasingly filling this gap, particularly in urban areas. However, public health concerns persist due to a lack of stringent regulations and monitoring to ensure compliance with water quality standards. This study evaluated the physical, chemical, and biological quality of sachet drinking water from five companies in Kono District, Sierra Leone. Standard laboratory analyses were performed on water samples, and consumer perceptions were gathered via questionnaires. While the physical and chemical properties of the sachet water brands generally complied with Sierra Leone Ministry of Water Resources (MWR-SL) and World Health Organization (WHO) standards, bacteriological quality, specifically aerobic plate counts, exceeded these standards in most samples. Only Good Family Pure Water company met all MWR-SL and WHO permissible standards. Consumer preference analysis revealed Good Family Pure Water was favored by 54.5% of respondents, followed by Janneh Spring Water (15%), Diamond Pure Water (12%), Hali Fresh Water (10.5%), and Nimi Hills Spring Water (8%). Good Family Pure Water also ranked highest in perceived quality, aligning with laboratory results. The study recommended that sachet water companies in Sierra Leone adhere strictly to hygiene standards to prevent product contamination, ensuring public safety and a healthier population, thereby reducing the need for resource allocation towards disease control.
Abstract: A significant priority in developing countries, including Sierra Leone, is access to clean and safe drinking water, which is largely unavailable. Packaged water, often sold in sachets, is increasingly filling this gap, particularly in urban areas. However, public health concerns persist due to a lack of stringent regulations and monitoring to ensur...
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Research Article
Assessment of the Impact of Pesticides on Soil Quality in Rice-Growing Areas of Baguineda, Mali
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
90-98
Received:
11 September 2025
Accepted:
20 September 2025
Published:
9 October 2025
Abstract: The intensive use of pesticides in the rice-growing areas of the Baguineda Irrigated Perimeter Office (OPIB), as in several other rice-growing regions of Mali, is raising growing concerns about the environment and public health. This study was conducted to examine the impact of pesticide use on the quality of rice-producing soils, through an assessment of farmers' knowledge and practices and the detection and quantification of pesticide residues in soil samples. Preliminary surveys were conducted in four villages of Baguineda (Dougourakoro, Kognimba, Sebela, and Mofa) to identify the pesticides currently used by the farmers. These surveys involved 50 respondents with 15 farmers from Kognimba and Dougourakoro villages and 10 farmers from Mofa and Sebela. Subsequently, a sampling campaign collected 40 soil samples, which were analyzed at the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Bamako using an Agilent 7890 gas chromatograph. The surveys identified a list of 19 active pesticide substances currently used in the OPIB production area, including three herbicides, two fungicides, and fourteen insecticides. Four methods of managing empty pesticide packaging used by producers were also identified. Pesticide application practices, such as over- and under-dosing, were also observed. Among farmers, 33.5% follow the advice of OPIB supervisors on pesticide use, 44.5% rely on local distributors, while 12.25% follow the advice of their neighbors and 9.75% rely on their own experience, with none of them admitting to following the recommendations of pesticide manufacturers. These varied practices, including failure to comply with recommended dosages and lack of expert advice, contribute directly to soil contamination, as evidenced by the presence of three organochlorine pesticides (endosulfan α, endosulfan β, and lindane) and two organophosphates (dichlorvos and chlorpyrifos) in the samples analyzed. The concentrations measured, ranging from 0.008 to 0.28 mg.kg-1, indicate that the soil is contaminated with pesticide residues, some of which are classified as persistent organic pollutants. This study highlights the need to continue adopting sustainable agricultural practices and raising farmers' awareness of the risks associated with the safe use of pesticides in order to preserve soil quality and public health in OPIB rice growing areas.
Abstract: The intensive use of pesticides in the rice-growing areas of the Baguineda Irrigated Perimeter Office (OPIB), as in several other rice-growing regions of Mali, is raising growing concerns about the environment and public health. This study was conducted to examine the impact of pesticide use on the quality of rice-producing soils, through an assess...
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Research Article
Determination of lead (Pb) Pollution Levels in Soils from Different Mechanical Garages and Bus Stations in Dakar Using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrometry
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
99-106
Received:
1 October 2025
Accepted:
13 October 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijec.20250902.17
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Abstract: Heavy metals are among the most toxic pollutants found in soils. Lead, in particular, is one of these metals that exerts harmful effects on living organisms even at very low concentrations. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess the level of lead contamination in soils from garage areas. In this work, we collected soil samples from eight different garages, including five bus stations and three mechanical workshops. On each site, we collected a composite sample that we analyzed in order to quantify the lead content using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF). The XRF device provided the elemental analysis results of each sample in parts per million (ppm). These results highlighted the presence of trace metal elements such as lead (Pb), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), and arsenic (As), as well as other less toxic metals like iron (Fe), molybdenum (Mo), zirconium (Zr), sulfur (S), and tin (Sn). The comparative study of the concentrations found shows a heterogeneous distribution of lead in the soils of the garages, with values ranging from 36.62 to 53.26 ppm. Concentrations are higher in the soils of mechanical workshops than in those of bus stations, with a few exceptions. The most concerning site (S4) shows the maximum lead content of 53.26 ppm, which does not exceed the alert level of 400 ppm set by the US EPA for soils. Thus, the soils do not currently present major health risks for adults, but long-term exposure could negatively affect children living near these areas.
Abstract: Heavy metals are among the most toxic pollutants found in soils. Lead, in particular, is one of these metals that exerts harmful effects on living organisms even at very low concentrations. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess the level of lead contamination in soils from garage areas. In this work, we collected soil samples from eig...
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Research Article
Heavy Metal Pollution in Kingtom and Granville Dump Sites in Freetown, Sierra Leone
David Conteh
,
Sahr Emmanuel Lebbie*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, December 2025
Pages:
107-119
Received:
2 November 2025
Accepted:
13 November 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijec.20250902.18
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Abstract: The studies reported here were undertaken as part of a wider environmental study on the level of heavy metal pollution in the Kingdom and Granville dumpsites in Freetown. The use of the Kingtom and Grandville dumpsites to grow edible crops without checking the level of metal toxicity created concern to undertake such research with a view to ascertain a healthy environment for the growing of crops. Two sets of samples, one from each dumpsite, were taken for analysis. Soil, water, and plants (cassava and krain krain) were tested for Pb, Zn, Ni, and Co. The geological surveys tested physical parameters like pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity. The soil samples were collected at a depth of 10 cm by an auger, and water samples from up, middle, and down river/lagoon and plants of two widely grown varieties were analyzed using the principles of atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The levels of Pb, Zn, Ni, and Co obtained exceeded the recommended WHO permissible standards. The present study has been of short duration, but the data could serve as a baseline for more investigations that give a more complete picture of the seasonal patterns in the level of pollution of heavy metal in the Kingtom and Granville dumpsites. It will be helpful to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to create policies or legislation on the use of these nearby streams, dump sites, and their immediate environments. It will also help the Ministry of Education to create mass pollution awareness in the school curriculum and society, and therefore, the researcher recommends that community people should prevent overloading, that is, sort for heavy and light debris, and ensure safe waste distribution management.
Abstract: The studies reported here were undertaken as part of a wider environmental study on the level of heavy metal pollution in the Kingdom and Granville dumpsites in Freetown. The use of the Kingtom and Grandville dumpsites to grow edible crops without checking the level of metal toxicity created concern to undertake such research with a view to ascerta...
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