Advanced Technology for Smart Environment and Energy

The use of Internet connectivity and serial communication techniques occasionally suffer from electromagnetic interference, data loss, and increased latency, making them inefficient for teleoperating robots and unmanned vehicles. In multi-actuated telerobotic systems, where speed, accuracy, and parallelism of data communication are very crucial, these issues become more critical, requiring more versatile and robust multisignaling devices. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an NRF24L01-enabled telematic device and algorithmic frameworks for controlling multiple robot actuators at once using multisignal radio frequencies (RF). By simultaneously transmitting multiple control signals as RF data packets, the system achieves faster and more accurate control of the robot. The developed system has been rigorously tested and has demonstrated low latency, high accuracy, and suitability for real-time robotics. The results also show that the system is a viable solution for the efficient control of multiple robot motors, servo drives, and states.

This book chapter delves into the multifaceted nature of port performance, examining the influence of stakeholders and the complexity involved in developing a comprehensive measurement model. The chapter highlights the significance of considering various stakeholders and their interests in assessing port performance, while also exploring the challenges, conflict areas and intricacies associated with constructing an effective measurement framework. Through an analysis of stakeholder dynamics and the complexities of measurement components, this paper provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers in the moroccan port industry followed a qualitative study. This qualitative study insisted to focus on the intricacies of the supply chain approach by examining three essential facets: efficiency, effectiveness, and supply chain integration. These facets are represented by a port triptych, which serves as a conceptual framework for investigating the specificities of port supply chain management in a comprehensive manner.

As the world's population grows, so does the demand for energy, which in turn threatens the environment through greenhouse gas emissions. Hence the importance of converting to renewable energies, which are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Green hydrogen is produced from renewable energy sources, making it a clean, versatile and transportable energy carrier. This research work proposes a methodology for designing a green hydrogen production system, taking into account important factors such as production capacity, hydrogen production technology and local environmental factors.

Air contamination is an altered air quality which can be defined by the chemical, biological or material pollutant measurements. It can have consequences to human health, to biological species, to the weather, or to property. The continuous development of human activities leads to more release of pollutants into the environment. Soot, aerosols, and greenhouse gases, among other air pollutants, affect the planet and human health. In this sense, several studies were carried out to measure and analyze air pollution levels and their effects on the ecosystem. Based on the theory of bibliometrics, this study analyses the available research articles and reviews on air pollution in Africa while trying to define the main gaps and trends in this field of study. The results highlight that the main investigated fields include monitoring air pollutants concentrations, health risk assessment, policies and socio-economic growth related to air pollution. We noted weak scientific collaborations among African countries, possibly affecting the continent's scientific productivity. In this order, there is a need to consider developing regional scientific integration in Africa mainly in emerging fields such as environmental-related ones.

The transition to sustainable energy sources is crucial in addressing the global challenge of climate change. Smart devices and the Internet of Things (IoT) have emerged as promising technologies to achieve sustainable energy objectives. The chapter introduction establishes the significance of sustainable energy and outlines the obstacles faced in its implementation. It then provides an overview of the IoT and smart devices, highlighting their integration and functionality within energy systems. It further explores the merits of IoT and smart devices in sustainable energy besides their potential to mitigate environmental impacts while promoting economic and social benefits. Energy efficiency and resource conservation improvements can be achieved by leveraging IoT technologies in renewable energy generation, monitoring and management, and smart grid integration. Also, it explores social impacts such as improved quality of life and increased accessibility to energy services. Challenges and limitations are addressed, including security and privacy concerns in IoT-enabled energy systems, interoperability issues among smart devices, and adoption barriers. The chapter also discusses the economic advantages and social impacts of IoT-enabled energy systems while addressing security, interoperability, and adoption barriers. Through case studies and future perspectives, this research emphasizes the potential of IoT and smart devices in driving sustainable energy solutions and calls for increased support and investment from policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders to propel the shift toward affordable, cleaner, sustainable energies.

Single carbon substrate gases, such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, play a significant role in global climate change. The fixation and reprocessing of single carbon substrate gases have been the subject of numerous studies to reduce these gases in environment and recycle them to useful molecules. A promising approach to overcome these challenges is to use microorganisms as biocatalysts to transform gases from single carbon substrates into compounds with higher values. Acetogenic microorganisms have gain considerable attention as biocatalysts because of their unique Wood-Ljungdahl (WL) pathway, which facilitates the fixation of both CO₂, CO along with H₂. Recently, the fermentation of single-carbon substrate gases to metabolites and biochemical at large scale has not been commercialized yet and has certain limitations. But the acetogens having high versatile metabolic pathway, high gases substrate solubility, and requiring less energy in biochemical reactions are the future prospective hopes. This chapter focuses on brief introduction, pathway, physiology, and synthetic engineering the Wood-Ljungdahl (WL) pathway route for the development of standard recombinant strains and for conversion of single carbon substrates and C1 gases into useful bioproducts. It is possible to engineer this pathway in order to produce biohydrocarbons. The synthetic engineering of acetogens is a promising approach for the production of various biohydrocarbons from syngas and waste carbon sources. Although, the process needs more research, explore future strategies for making synthetic acetogens capable of high yield at optimize conditions to make the industrial process economically feasible.

The realization of a sustainable circular economy is a possibility that can be achieved by the transformation of lignocellulosic and other organic biomass into fuels, hydrocarbons and biomolecules through the use of biological and thermochemical methods. The biological and thermochemical methods transform solid biomass into a variety of liquid and gaseous biofuels. These processes and methods are highly effective in production of numerous bioproducts, including fuels and chemicals, providing a profitable production scheme to the industrial process. This chapter provides an overview description of biomass sources, biomass composition, technologies and various processes involved in biofuels, feed additives and food materials. The main significant conversion processes commonly used for production of biofuels and biochemicals from different biomass are included. To summarize the key points, biofuels are a potential alternative to fossil fuels, although each process has still certain drawbacks, but cheap waste biomass and combination of advance refinery processes can provide a future optimism. Thus for next generation biofuel, further research is vital to explore new technologies, application of synthetic biology, and utilization of algae for biofuels, could decrease production costs and energy for sustainable future.

Biomass pyrolysis technology can realize the green preparation of biofuels and bio-based chemicals. However, due to the high oxygen content of biomass, there are uncontrollable chemical bond breaking in biomass pyrolysis technology. Therefore, the problems of high oxygen content and moisture content, high acidity, low calorific value and complex organic composition in bio-oil limit the commercial development of biomass-based fuels and chemicals. In this chapter, the pyrolysis process parameter and the pyrolysis reactor are discussed. The on-line (catalytic pyrolysis) and off-line (catalytic reforming and esterification) catalytic upgrading methods of bio-oil are included. In addition, applications of biochar and pyrolysis gas co-produced by biomass pyrolysis are described. Finally, a clean energy production model based on biomass catalytic pyrolysis is proposed. The aim of this chapter is to clarify the clean energy production technology, catalytic upgrading methods, pyrolysis by-product utilization and advanced biomass utilization model based on pyrolysis technology.

In this chapter, we discuss the traditional resources and energy recovery process as well as the smart resources and energy recovery process. Our concentration is the treatment of digestion liquid after anaerobic fermentation. Because digestion liquid has huge environmental hazards and resource potential. We describe the technique of recovering struvite from anaerobic digestion liquid using smart constant voltage electrolytic crystallisation method as an example of recovering nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater. We designed a smart magnesium anode constant voltage electrolytic crystallisation device to achieve smart and automated resources and energy recovery by controlling the power supply and struvite recovery. We compared the treatment efficiency of the device under different voltage, initial pH, and wastewater quality conditions. We revealed that the recovery efficiency of phosphorus was maintained at a relatively high level in the voltage range of 2 V–12 V. And the recovery of nitrogen and phosphorus was effective in the initial pH range of 3–8. Furthermore, we have built a smart constant voltage electrolytic crystallisation device with solar light panels as the power source under 2 V voltage conditions. It has a perfect application potential for eutrophic water bodies. The device not only has a high recovery rate for struvite, but also has a high potential for vivianite and heavy metal recovery. In the age of rapid development of smart resources and energy technology, it is expected to become a new generation of large-scale application technology.

The process of olive crushing, which is primarily aimed at producing olive oil, generates significant waste materials in the form of olive pomace and olive mill wastewater. Globally, the production of olive pomace is estimated to be around 2.9 million tons, with a substantial portion originating from Morocco, accounting for approximately 600,000 to 700,000 tons. However, the lack of proper waste management practices has raised significant environmental concerns. These waste materials, characterized by high levels of organic matter, cellulose, and nitrogen, are often discharged untreated into the natural environment. This indiscriminate disposal leads to soil, surface water, and groundwater pollution, along with the release of unpleasant odors. The detrimental effects of olive pomace primarily stem from its polyphenol content, which is resistant to biodegradation. However, these waste materials also contain valuable resources, such as organic matter and various nutrients that can be recycled. In recent years, researchers have focused on exploring different valorization methods for olive pomace. Several studies have investigated techniques such as olive oil extraction, combustion, animal feed, adsorbents, thermal insulation, composting, and solid-state fermentation as potential avenues for valorization. The unique physicochemical properties of olive pomace have presented specific challenges in its management within olive mills, necessitating the development of appropriate valorization strategies and methods. The choice of the most suitable techniques for valorization depends on various factors, including the social, agricultural, or industrial context surrounding the olive mills. While certain methods may be mandated by regulations in the sector, it is advisable to consider environmentally friendly approaches for the sustainable management of olive pomace waste.

Many areas in Morocco are experiencing dramatic changes in Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) at various spatial and temporal scales due to climate change and human activities. Information on these changes are often required for natural resources planning, management and conservation. The three lakes under study are part of the central Middle Atlas, which is made up of limestone, volcanic plateaus and karstic causes. Several Land Use/Land Cover detection methods using Landsat 8 imagery were used for the study area. The analysis of changes in the watershed of Aoua lake in terms of gain and loss of areas for each Land Use/Land Cover for the period 2006–2019 shows that the different classes have clearly evolved. Over a 32-year period, the area occupied by Aoua Lake decreased by 85 ha between the two defined dates (1987–2019) until it completely dried up. The Ifrah watershed has experienced a regressive dynamic for some classes and progressive for others. The changes in Iffer lake watershed classes are not linked to any other factor, manifested by the absence of any anthropic action as well as any agricultural practice.

To support energy development, we need innovative, environmentally friendly processes that capitalize on renewable resources. In this respect, the thesis investigates the process of gasification of ultra-humid biomass in supercritical water (characterized by T > 374 °C and P > 22.1 MPa) to generate hydrogen. This molecule offers enormous potential as an energy source and has a very favorable environmental impact. Tracking of the batch reaction medium as it moved to the supercritical state revealed advanced conversion of organic molecules and identification of some of the intermediates generated. Among the parameters studied, temperature and reaction time had the greatest influence on the yield of hydrogen.

The wetland Afenourir, like any other wetlands, offers unique ecological, economic, environmental and social benefits. The abusive use of this area by the local population as has been indiscriminate has therefore been subject to damage. In this matter, in order to clarify the causes behind the degradation of this zone, a socio-economic study is necessary in order to identify the different users of the zone and their synergetic and conflicting context, by highlighting the balance sheet of the interests of each type of users in correlation with the ecological objectives for the planning, decision-making and implementation of heritage management of the environment based on the restoration and conservation of this wetland.

This chapter emphasizes the significance of scientific research in addressing soil fertility challenges, it provides valuable insights for a greener and more productive agricultural sector. The use of biochar as a soil amendment and the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) systems for soil quality evaluation and control are combined in a strategic vision presented in the paper. Biochar, bio-oil, and bio-gas are produced via the pyrolysis process, which involves the decomposition of organic waste at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. Additionally, real-time monitoring of crucial elements like soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels is made possible by the application of AI and sensor-based systems. As a result, growing conditions may be optimized, dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides is decreased, and sustainable agriculture is promoted. This enables accurate input modifications.

Molecular hydrogen is perhaps one of the most promising hydrogen vectors in our search for alternatives to fossil resources. It is considered a green energy vector in the sense that it can be generated from renewable sources and its combustion/oxidation generates only water. Biological processes for hydrogen production can operate under less energy-intensive and environmentally friendly operating conditions compared to conventional chemical methods. Microalgae seem to be an alternative to fossil fuels by producing biofuels, these microscopic plants have the possibility to be grown in different ways to produce biofuel. Hydrogen makes up more than 80% of the matter in our universe. It is easy to produce from renewable and sustainable energy sources such as sunlight and wind. It can also be produced biologically. However, this reaction is limited due to the high sensitivity of hydrogenases to oxygen. In this work, we are trying to shed light on the process and role of hydrogenase in the production of hydrogen as well as to study the importance of using microalgae to produce green hydrogen as classified by the biomass-rich sources for the production of metabolites of therapeutic or industrial interest such as large chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), pigments, polysaccharides, vitamins or various biologically active compounds.

Micro/nanostructures, one of the most important areas of scientific research, have received a great deal of attention. for their numerous self-cleaning applications. Their outstanding properties, like rigidity, enable materials for a wide range of applications, particularly in the food, aerospace, household appliance, and, above all, aerospace industries. However, these materials have a low resistance to corrosion. The mechanical properties of pure metals are generally relatively weak. The addition of other elements “hardens” the metal and enhances its mechanical properties. In addition to the mechanical reinforcements generated by deformation, such as work-hardening, there are chemical hardenings by the addition of elements in solid solution or by the precipitation of secondary hardening phases such as carbides. Our research is focused on identifying the various structural characterization techniques ([X-ray scattering (XRD), SEM, TEM]) applied to ZnO-based solar cells, and investigating crystalline structural characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD) to obtain high-quality ZnO films. After analyzing the spectra, we note that the increase in substrate temperature has caused the atoms to cool more slowly, their scattering to become wider and the crystallinity of the films to improve.

IOT and new technologies have come together in recent years to turn items into intelligent ones that can detect, understand, and respond to their environment. The Internet of Things, which is able to connect a variety of intelligent, networked devices, has made linking and managing numerous items simple. And given the high demand for agricultural products, it is necessary to integrate the Internet of Things in this area to increase the quality and quantity of these products. To address this issue, we have proposed an embedded system that aims to automate agricultural greenhouses and control them remotely via the Internet of Things. This system is designed to detect luminosity, ground humidity, temperature and ambient humidity, and to activate irrigation pumps and motors to open and close windows according to weather conditions.

Sun's radiation (Rs) refers to the sunlight that arrives at the Grounds cape and provides light, heat, and energy. It plays a crucial role in sustaining life on our planet. Capturing and converting Rs into usable forms of energy, such as heat and electricity, is possible with different devices. However, measuring Rs accurately can be challenging due to various factors. Consequently, alternative methods have been developed to estimate Rs using different parameters and models. In this study, a model based on Multivariate Time Series (MVTS) delay values is introduced to examine how different feature selection (FS) approaches impact the prediction of Rs. The methodology proposed involves utilizing a random forest model to iteratively eliminate features, and subsequently evaluating its performance in comparison to Logistic Regression and Decision Tree models. The obtained results demonstrate that the approach produces reliable predictions based on several important criteria. Interestingly, the ranking of features varied depending on the model used, even when applied to the same dataset. The Logistic Regression model performs exceptionally well based on the Route Mean Square Error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2) scores, although the other models also exhibit impressive performance.

This article discusses the benefits of using cloud-based IT infrastructure to manage electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. It provides information about the different types of EV chargers and their functionalities. Additionally, it emphasizes the benefits of cloud-based charging stations, including cost savings, convenient control for users, efficient energy consumption, and faster charging times. The research also highlights the importance of maintaining cybersecurity and privacy in the design and operation of digitally connected EV charging stations. Overall, the report supports the integration of cloud-based IT and EV charging as a means of decarbonizing road transport, reducing pollution and noise, and promoting growth in the EV sector.

The transition to the production of sustainable and green energy, such as algal biofuels, has required the prioritization of scaling technologies to improve the overall technological economy of the process. The world today is facing many challenges, such as climate and global change, where we are facing the needs of people who are related to energy and raw materials, and at the same time, we need to keep a more secure border for our world. The focus is now on developing and adopting digitization and automation technologies in the algae sector to meet the desired production scale and optimize operating parameters. It was also discussed how future technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) application to automation and smart agriculture, can significantly improve commercial algal production. Biomanufacturing is advancing in parallel with the fourth industrial revolution that focuses on the production of big data using smart software, artificial intelligence, innovative modeling, robotics, three-dimensional (3D) printing and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, microalgae culture, which requires accurate monitoring, control, and prediction of microalgae biomass growth, has not yet been integrated into IoT and AI technology as it is still in its infancy. This work focuses on the microalgae-based biofuel production process and IoT implementation toward the future of smart agriculture.

This chapter presents a comprehensive exploration of the desalination process, elucidating its diverse impacts on water, air, and society. The primary focus is to elucidate the process of transforming saline water into potable freshwater using various desalination methods, including reverse osmosis, distillation, and multi-stage evaporation. The impact on water resources is thoroughly assessed, considering the influence of desalination on freshwater availability. The extraction of seawater for desalination purposes is discussed in relation to its potential consequences on marine ecosystems and specific species populations. Moreover, attention is drawn to the disposal of brine, a byproduct of desalination, which may affect marine environments' salinity and water quality when discharged into the ocean. Additionally, the chapter examines the environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions associated with desalination operations, particularly those resulting from the use of fossil fuels to power desalination facilities, leading to CO₂ emissions and other pollutants. However, a significant emphasis is placed on the growing efforts to integrate renewable energy sources to mitigate these emissions. Lastly, the chapter explores the social implications of desalination, emphasizing the effects on local communities in terms of job security, access to potable water, and harmonious coexistence with desalination infrastructure. In summary, this chapter provided an in-depth understanding of the desalination process, shedding light on its impacts on water, air, and society, while also highlighting the ongoing efforts to mitigate these negative effects.

Methanization, also known as anaerobic digestion, is a natural process that transforms organic matter into biogas, primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide, under anaerobic conditions. The historical development of methanization dates back to the eighteenth century, and its applications have expanded over time, particularly in wastewater and waste treatment, as well as in the production of renewable energy. Methanization's contribution to energy generation and efficient pollution control has garnered attention in the face of global warming and finite fossil fuel reserves. This paper explores the various applications of methanization, including its role in wastewater treatment, waste management, and as a valuable biofuel source. Comparisons with other biofuel production methods emphasize methanization's promising energy efficiency and its positive impact on soil quality and sustainable development. Decentralized biogas plants, particularly in agricultural settings, are emerging as important drivers of energy production in rural areas, showcasing the technology's economic potential and local benefits. As the world strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition towards renewable energy sources, methanization emerges as a key technology with the potential to meet a significant portion of biofuel demands. Despite challenges in policy and implementation, the technology's versatility and efficiency make it a crucial tool in our fight against climate change and resource depletion. As we continue to invest in this technology, methanization offers a sustainable and environmentally responsible path towards a cleaner, greener, and more promising future for our planet.