This paper addresses increasing concern about the pollution threat of used oil being illegally dumped and the impact of oil on air pollution and freshwater ecosystems in Asian countries. Used oil is a very serious was...This paper addresses increasing concern about the pollution threat of used oil being illegally dumped and the impact of oil on air pollution and freshwater ecosystems in Asian countries. Used oil is a very serious waste management problem. These results call for management action such as maximising the collection and recovery of used oil. The Thai government recognizes the need to recycle used oil and has been active in encouraging programs to accomplish this goal. Thus unless new approaches and incentives are developed, used oil generation may become an increasing serious problem to our environment. The purpose of this study is to examine the technical and economic feasibility, of recycling used oils. In addition, this paper briefly discusses the problems to be overcome and outlines potential mechanisms for providing the necessary disposal controls in order to maximize the protection to public health and environmental quality from potential hazards posed by used lube oil disposal.展开更多
Volatile organic compounds(VOCs)are the important precursors of the tropospheric ozone(O3)and secondary organic aerosols(SOA),both of which are known to harm human health and disrupt the earth’s climate system.In thi...Volatile organic compounds(VOCs)are the important precursors of the tropospheric ozone(O3)and secondary organic aerosols(SOA),both of which are known to harm human health and disrupt the earth’s climate system.In this study,VOC emission factors,O3 and SOA formation potentials were estimated for two types of industrial boilers:coal-fired boilers(n=3)and oil-fired boilers(n=3).Results showed that EVOCs concentrations were more than nine times higher for oil-fire d boilers compared to those for coal-fired boilers.Emission factors ofΣVOCs were found to be higher for oil-fired boilers(9.26-32.83 mg-VOC/kg)than for coal-fired boilers(1.57-4.13 mg-VOC/kg).Alkanes and aromatics were obtained as the most abundant groups in coal-fired boilers,while oxygenated organics and aromatics were the most contributing groups in oil-fired boilers.Benzene,n-hexane and o-ethyl toluene were the abundant VOC species in coal-fired boiler emissions,whereas toluene was the most abundant VOC species emitted from oil-fired boilers.O3 and SOA formation potentials were found 12 and 18 times,respectively,higher for oil-fired than for coal-fired boilers.Total OFP ranged from 3.99 to 11.39 mg-O3/kg for coal-fired boilers.For oil-fired boilers,total OFP ranged from 36.16 to 131.93 mg-O3/kg.Moreover,total secondary organic aerosol potential(SOAP)ranged from 65.4 to 122.5 mg-SOA/kg and 779.9 to 2252.5 mg-SOA/kg for the coal-fired and oil-fired boilers,respectively.展开更多
The occurrence of antibiotics in the environment has recently raised serious concerns regarding their potential threat to human health and aquatic ecosystem. A new magnetic nanocomposite, Fe304@C （Fe304 coated with c...The occurrence of antibiotics in the environment has recently raised serious concerns regarding their potential threat to human health and aquatic ecosystem. A new magnetic nanocomposite, Fe304@C （Fe304 coated with carbon）, was synthesized, characterized, and then applied to remove five commonly-used sulfonamides （SAs） from water. Due to its combinational merits of the outer functionalized carbon shell and the inner magnetite core, Fe3O4@C exhibited a high adsorption affinity for selected SAs and a fast magnetic separability. The adsorption kinetics of SAs on Fe304 @ C could be expressed by the pseudo second-order model. The adsorption isotherms were fitted well with the Dual-mode model, revealing that the adsorption process consisted of an initial partitioning stage and a subsequent hole-filling stage. Solution pH exerted a strong impact on the adsorption process with the maximum removal efficiencies （74% to 96%） obtained at pH 4.8 for all selected SAs. Electrostatic force and hydrogen bonding were two major driving forces for adsorption, and electron-donor-acceptor interactions may also make a certain contribution. Because the synthesized Fe304@C showed comprehensive advantages of high adsorptivity, fast magnetic separability, and prominent reusability, it has potential applications in water treatment.展开更多
Four environmental and biological monitoring sites were strategically established to evaluate benzene and lead exposure assessment at various traffic zones of Bangkok Metropolitan Region(BMR). Biological measurement o...Four environmental and biological monitoring sites were strategically established to evaluate benzene and lead exposure assessment at various traffic zones of Bangkok Metropolitan Region(BMR). Biological measurement of 48 non air-conditioned, male bus drivers was carried to study the relationship between individual exposure levels and exposure biomarkers. The study group was further sub-divided into four age groups(16—25, 26—35, 36—45 and 46—55 years old) to monitor the age—related exposure effects. A total of 12 unexposed persons were deliberately chosen as the control group. Measurement of unmetobolized benzene in blood and analysis of urinary tt-Muconic acid urine and urinary creatinine are recommended as biomarkers of benzene exposure. Measurement of lead in blood and urine is also recommended for the biological monitoring of lead exposure. During the monitoring period, benzene and lead levels at Yaowarat Road was C_6H_6: 42.46±3.88 μg/m 3, Pb: 0.29±0.03 μg/m 3 and decreased to C_6H_6: 33.5±1.35 μg/m 3, Pb: 0.13±0.01 μg/m 3 at Phahonyothin Road. Significant difference was established between the nonsmoking exposed group and nonsmoking control group for blood benzene concentrations ( P <0.001, two-tailed, Mann-Whiteney U test). Strong correlations were also found between trans-trans-Muconic acid concentrations in post shift samples and atmospheric benzene concentrations. Similarly, good correlation between all of biomarkers and lead level in air is established from automobile emissions.The analysis revealed that among the occupational population in the urban sites, the driver groups were found to have the highest risk of benzene and lead exposures derived from automobile emission.展开更多
In this article, we review the current knowledge of the glacial recession and related glacial lake development in the Andes of South America. Since the mid-1980 s, hundreds of glacial lakes either expanded or formed, ...In this article, we review the current knowledge of the glacial recession and related glacial lake development in the Andes of South America. Since the mid-1980 s, hundreds of glacial lakes either expanded or formed, and predictions show that additional hundreds of lakes will form throughout the 21 st century. However, studies on glacial lakes in the Andes are still relatively rare. Many glacial lakes pose a potential hazard to local communities, but glacial lake outburst floods(GLOFs) are understudied. We provide an overview on hazards from glacial lakes such as GLOFs and water pollution, and their monitoring approaches. In real-time monitoring, the use of unmanned aerial systems(UASs) and early warning systems(EWSs) is still extremely rare in the Andes, but increasingly authorities plan to install mitigation systems to reduce glacial lake risk and protect local communities. In support, we propose an international remote sensing-based observation initiative following the model of, for example, the Global Land Ice Measurements from Space(GLIMS) one, with the headquarters in one of the Andean nations.展开更多
Parametric effect of moisture and influence of operating variables on the adsorption behaviour of polyaspartamide during CO2 capture was investigated in this study using experimental and modelling approach. Individual...Parametric effect of moisture and influence of operating variables on the adsorption behaviour of polyaspartamide during CO2 capture was investigated in this study using experimental and modelling approach. Individual effects of operating conditions (e.g. pressure, temperature and gas flow rates) as well as the effect of moisture on the adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide were methodically investigated using Dubinin-Raduskevich model. Results from the investigations reveal that the presence of moisture in the flue gas had an incremental effect on the adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide;thereby showcasing the potential of polyaspartamide as a suitable hydrophilic material for CO2 capture in power plants. In addition, pressure, temperature and gas flow rates at 200 kPa, 403 K, and 1.5 mL/s, respectively, sig? nificantly influenced the CO2 adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide. Physisorption and chemisorption both governed the adsorption process while equilibrium studies at different temperatures showed that Langmuir isotherm could adequately describe the adsorption behaviour of the material with best fit with R^2>0.95.展开更多
To reveal the multivariate relationships between man-made and meteorological factors on dust storm frequency, the LUCC data, NDVI remote sensing data and meteorological data for the period of 1983-2013 were combined w...To reveal the multivariate relationships between man-made and meteorological factors on dust storm frequency, the LUCC data, NDVI remote sensing data and meteorological data for the period of 1983-2013 were combined with dust storm frequency data, and the possible impacts of meteorological and anthropogenic factors on dust storm frequency were analyzed by using regression analysis and PCA (Principal Component Analysis). Results show that the inter-annual dust storm frequency increased gradually. In particular, an increasing trend in recent years, after 2009, is conspicuous. The monthly frequency of dust storms shows higher values between the months of February and May, with the highest mean number of events occurring in April, which accounts for 29% of the annual dust storm frequency. The annual dust storm frequency is positively correlated with wind speed and negatively correlated with precipitation;the monthly dust storm frequency is positively correlated with wind speed, but no significant correlation can be found with precipitation. The relationship between temperature and dust storms is not simply linear, however, a certain correlation with an unremarkable statistical significance can be found between them. Human activities also affect the dynamics of dust storms indirectly via changing vegetation coverage and direct dust emissions. The multivariate analysis further confirmed the association between dust storm frequency and meteorological factors and NDVI. The high loadings of dust storm frequency, wind speed, precipitation and NDVI on a PC indicate that the increased precipitation and NDVI will decrease dust storm frequency, and increased wind speed will increase dust storm frequency.展开更多
This study was conducted to assess the occupational exposure and its health impact on the chromium alloy workers. Environmental and biological monitoring, noise and audiometry measurements were done to evaluate the ex...This study was conducted to assess the occupational exposure and its health impact on the chromium alloy workers. Environmental and biological monitoring, noise and audiometry measurements were done to evaluate the exposure levels in the factory. A total of 112 non-smoking workers were monitored from July 2001 to August 2002 The results showed that most of the chromium and lead exposures in the factory were below the ACGIH-TWA of 50 μg/m 3 for chromium(Ⅵ) and OSHA-PEL of 50 μg/m 3 for lead. The highest chromium(7 25±0 16 μg/m 3) and lead(14 50±0 29 μg/m 3) concentrations were measured in the vibro room. The results indicated that elevated concentrations of chromium and lead were found in both blood and urine samples especially in those areas which were characterized by poor ventilation. The metal contents in blood and urine samples were significantly correlated with airborne metal concentrations in the factory. The result demonstrated that blood and urinary levels among workers were associated with increasing age and duration of exposure. The background noise level of the factory ranged from 67 6 to 89 2 dBA and was frequently higher than the threshold limit value for noise(90 dBA). According to the audiometric test, the exposed workers showed signs of noise-induced hearing loss. Noise at work continued to be an important factor to hearing loss among exposed workers. In our statistical analysis, a significant hearing loss was established on age effect and year of exposure among the workforce.展开更多
Human activities involving noise emission can affect wild animals.European mink was exposed to road noise and human voice playbacks to analyze how sound intensity level and duration of both noises altered the time tha...Human activities involving noise emission can affect wild animals.European mink was exposed to road noise and human voice playbacks to analyze how sound intensity level and duration of both noises altered the time that individuals were active and if their fecal cortisol metabolite(FCM)levels varied.A Hierarchical Analysis Cluster was performed to establish 2 mink groups with respect to both noise source type:short duration/low intensity(SL)and long duration/high intensity(LH).We performed general linear mixed models to evaluate the variation in locomotor activity duration(s)and FCM(nanogram per gram)levels,respectively.The results showed both road noise and human voices decreased locomotor activity duration in SL more sharply compared with LH,and human voices were the triggers that induced the most pronounced response to both exposure conditions.FCM(ng/g)levels increased in SL compared with LH during road noise while the opposite happened during human voices.Differences based on sex and age of individuals were observed.In conclusion,noise characteristics given by the sound type determined the variations in locomotor activity duration while noise exposure level determined the variations in FCM(ng/g)levels.Attention should be paid to noisy activities(e.g.,recreational activities for visitors in protected natural areas)and loud groups of people to conserve wildlife,especially noise sensitive species.展开更多
Intermolecular geometries and energies of the dimers formed between simple aromatic hydrocarbons （benzene, toluene and naphthalene） and sulfate species （sulfuric acid, bisulfate and sulfate） were studied by densit...Intermolecular geometries and energies of the dimers formed between simple aromatic hydrocarbons （benzene, toluene and naphthalene） and sulfate species （sulfuric acid, bisulfate and sulfate） were studied by density functional theory. The AH：H2SO4 complexes were determined by the OH-π H-bond, with H2SO4 acting as the H-bond donor and AHs as the aeeeptor. However, the AHs：HSO4- and AHs：SO4^2- complexes were established by the H-bond, with AHs serving as acid and HSO4 or SO4^2- as alkali. The atmospheric implications of those complexes were strongly supported by their considerable binding energies.展开更多
The direct dumping of solid wastes into the rivers, discharge of industrial effluents together with direct discharge of domestic sewage have excessively polluted the major rivers Bagmati and Bish-numati. Groundwater a...The direct dumping of solid wastes into the rivers, discharge of industrial effluents together with direct discharge of domestic sewage have excessively polluted the major rivers Bagmati and Bish-numati. Groundwater along these river corridors is also affected from pollution of these rivers. Two major rivers: Bagmati and Bishnumati and shallow tube wells adjacent to these rivers were monitored for 2 years. Samples were analysed for the stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen (δD and δ18O) and selected physico-chemical parameters to investigate the possible interrelationship between river water and shallow groundwater along these river corridors. The physico-chemical values revealed that shallow groundwater and river water along the Bishnumati River corridor were heavily mineralized due to direct discharge of sewage wastes into this river. The isotope compositions of river water and shallow groundwater clustered together revealed possible interrelationship between them. Some of the isotopic compositions of groundwater and river water deviated below the Local Meteoric Water Line (LMWL) indicating that the water has undergone evaporation. The isotopic and chemical results suggested possible interrelationship between river water and groundwater. Fractional contribution of the river water to groundwater was calculated based on isotopic data using mass balance approach. Results showed that shallow groundwater SG1, along the Bagmati River corridor (in September 2013), was composed of approximately 30% - 40% Bagmati River water. Similarly, shallow groundwater SG5 of Bishnumati River corridor (in September 2013), was composed of approximately 45% - 50% river water. This result indicated that high portion of river water mixed-up with adjoining shallow groundwater along the river corridors. Further, the mix-up of the river water with groundwater can be harmful when rivers are polluted. These findings can be useful for a better understanding of hydrogeological processes at the river-aquifer interface and eventually benefit water management of the Kathmandu Valley in future.展开更多
Density functional theory was used at the B3LYP/6-311＋＋G（d,p） level of theory to study the hydrates of 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O for n = 0～4. Neutrals of the most stable clusters, when n = 0 and 1, spontaneously formed a...Density functional theory was used at the B3LYP/6-311＋＋G（d,p） level of theory to study the hydrates of 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O for n = 0～4. Neutrals of the most stable clusters, when n = 0 and 1, spontaneously formed and were determined to be hydrogen-bonded molecular complexes of monomeric species. Double ions （clusters containing a NH4＋ cation and a HSO4- anion） or even ternary ions （clusters with two NH4＋ cations and one SO42- anion） spontaneously formed in the most stable clusters of 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O （n = 2, 3, 4）. The energetics of binding and incremental association was also calculated. Double ions are not energetically favorable until 2NH3：H2SO4：2H2O because of the about equal free energies for forming the neutral （the most stable） and double ion （the second stable） isomers. The free energy of incremental association from free H2O and 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O has a maximum at n = 2 at room temperature with ΔG ≈ –2 kcal/mol. The comparison of incremental association energies between 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O, NH3：H2SO4：nH2O and H2SO4：nH2O clusters revealed that NH3 plays an important role in the atmospheric particle nucleation.展开更多
In the United Republic of Tanzania (URT), all environmental issues related to the mining industry are regulated according to two principle Acts: The Mining Act and the Environmental Management Act, and their respectiv...In the United Republic of Tanzania (URT), all environmental issues related to the mining industry are regulated according to two principle Acts: The Mining Act and the Environmental Management Act, and their respective regulations. The current acts were enacted in 2010 and 2004 respectively. Mineral exploration (that includes all on-site activities performed before a mining project is declared feasible) projects in URT appears to be “unforgotten phenomena” in the two major legislative documents, when it comes to environmental considerations. This phenomenon is believed to be causing detrimental effects to the environment. This paper, therefore, analyzes the current environmental regulatory framework on mineral exploration projects in URT and discusses few examples in which mineral exploration projects have caused damage to the indigenous environment. Furthermore, this study reviews environmental regulatory frameworks from other few countries in comparison with existing environmental regulatory framework prevailing in URT.展开更多
Antimicrobial pollution in surface waters has become an urgent environmental issue globally,yet few studies have specifically focused on the prevalence and impacts of antimicrobial contaminants in Tanzanian surface wa...Antimicrobial pollution in surface waters has become an urgent environmental issue globally,yet few studies have specifically focused on the prevalence and impacts of antimicrobial contaminants in Tanzanian surface waters.This review article presents a comprehensive assessment of antimicrobial pollutants in Tanzania’s aquatic ecosystems,filling a critical gap in the current literature.The findings reveal widespread contamination of surface waters,primarily with antibiotics,from diverse sources,including domestic sewage,agricultural runoff,industrial effluents,and healthcare facilities.This work integrates findings from a range of disciplines,including environmental monitoring,public health,and agricultural practices,to provide a holistic understanding in the Tanzanian context.The presence of antimicrobial pollutants may lead to the promotion of antimicrobial resistance,disruption of microbial communities,and risks to human health through food chain.Therefore,there is a call for further studies to assess the extent of antimicrobial pollution in Tanzania and its broader implications for both environmental and public health.展开更多
Most developing countries commonly dispose of solid waste fractions in open dumps and landfills.This study analysed the composition of municipal solid waste(MSW)at a dumpsite in Thailand,where plastic waste constitute...Most developing countries commonly dispose of solid waste fractions in open dumps and landfills.This study analysed the composition of municipal solid waste(MSW)at a dumpsite in Thailand,where plastic waste constituted 35%–62% of excavated waste across different sampling depths.Excavated plastic waste was classified by resin codes,with low-density polyethylene(LDPE)dominating 86%of plastic waste from 2012 to 2014 and decreasing to 43%in 2019.The analysis revealed that unbranded single-layer packaging predominated,with branded plastics increasing from 4%to 6%(2012,2013,and 2014)to 17%(2019).Dumpsite mining operations at the Pathum Thani site produced approximately 100 t of refuse-derived fuel(RDF)per day,generating revenue of 800–1200 THB per ton.However,the process also generated 40–50 t of residual waste daily,consisting of soil-like material mixed with plastic waste(20%plastics,35%combustible fractions,and the remaining mainly soil type materials).These residues failed Thai compost standards due to high electrical conductivity(8.2 dS/cm vs.standard≤3.5 dS/cm)and low germination index(4.43%vs.standard≥80.00%).Recommendations include adjusting the moisture content of input waste and modifying sieve sizes to improve output quality,with approximately 50%of soil fractions potentially recoverable through screening at<12.5 mm.The study estimates total plastic waste in the dumpsite to be 36559.79 t,with a potential revenue of 35 million THB if fully processed.The implementation of site-specific management studies,promotion of dumpsite mining,reduction of unbranded plastics consumption,and extended producer responsibility(EPR)policies are crucial for achieving circularity of plastic waste fractions.展开更多
This study advances the DRASTIC groundwater vulnerability assessment framework by integrating a multi-hazard groundwater index(MHGI)to account for the dynamic impacts of diverse anthropogenic activities and natural fa...This study advances the DRASTIC groundwater vulnerability assessment framework by integrating a multi-hazard groundwater index(MHGI)to account for the dynamic impacts of diverse anthropogenic activities and natural factors on both groundwater quality and quantity.Incorporating factors such as population growth,agricultural practices,and groundwater extraction enhances the framework’s ability to capture multi-dimensional,spatiotemporal changes in groundwater vulnerability.Additional improvements include refined weighting and rating scales for thematic layers based on available observational data,and the inclusion of distributed recharge.We demonstrate the practical utility of this dynamic DRASTIC-based framework through its application to the agro-urban regions of the Irrigated Indus Basin,a major groundwater-dependent agricultural area in South Asia.Results indicate that between 2005 and 2020,54%of the study area became highly vulnerable to pollution.The MHGI revealed a 13%decline in potential groundwater storage and a 25%increase in groundwater-stressed zones,driven primarily by population growth and intensive agriculture.Groundwater vulnerability based on both groundwater quality and quantity dimensions showed a 19%decline in areas of low to very low vulnerability and a 6%reduction in medium vulnerability zones by 2020.Sensitivity analyses indicated that groundwater vulnerability in the region is most influenced by groundwater recharge(42%)and renewable groundwater stress(38%).Validation with in-situ data yielded area under the curve values of 0.71 for groundwater quality vulnerability and 0.63 for MHGI.The framework provides valuable insights to guide sustainable groundwater management,safeguarding both environmental integrity and human well-being.展开更多
In this work Gd/La@ZnO nanoflower photocatalyst was successfully synthesized by a co-precipitation method and applied for rhodamine B(Rh B)and tetracycline(TCN)degradation under direct sunlight irradiation.The doping ...In this work Gd/La@ZnO nanoflower photocatalyst was successfully synthesized by a co-precipitation method and applied for rhodamine B(Rh B)and tetracycline(TCN)degradation under direct sunlight irradiation.The doping of rare earth elements extends the optical absorption wavelength of ZnO from UV region(390 nm)to visible-light region(401 nm).In addition,the co-doped ZnO nanoflower exhibits a lower charge recombination efficiency which was confirmed by photoluminescence emission analysis.Moreover,the co-doped ZnO nanoflower exhibits the maximum degradation efficiency of 91%for Rh B and 74%for TCN under sunlight irradiation.The calculated synergistic index of co-doped ZnO is higher than that of the pure ZnO.Reactive radicals’production was confirmed by terephthalic acid(TA)and nitro-blue tetrazolium(NBT)tests.The holes and hydroxyl(·OH)radicals play the major role in degradation reaction and it was confirmed by scavenger’s test.Moreover,the recycling test confirms the stability of the photocatalyst.展开更多
The Au/CeO2 catalysts were synthesized by co-precipitation (CP), deposition-precipitation (DP) and metallic colloids deposition (MCD) method, and tested for oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It was revea...The Au/CeO2 catalysts were synthesized by co-precipitation (CP), deposition-precipitation (DP) and metallic colloids deposition (MCD) method, and tested for oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It was revealed that the Au/CeO2 catalyst prepared by DP method was the most efficient catalyst towards the total oxidation of toluene. The Au/CeO2 catalysts had obviously high catalytic activity, and the best results was obtained on 3 wt.% Au/CeO2 catalyst prepared by DP method. These catalysts were chara...展开更多
Two hybrid processes including ozonation-ceramic membrane-biological activated carbon （BAC） （Process A） and ceramic membrane-BAC （Process B） were compared to treat polluted raw water. The performance of hybrid p...Two hybrid processes including ozonation-ceramic membrane-biological activated carbon （BAC） （Process A） and ceramic membrane-BAC （Process B） were compared to treat polluted raw water. The performance of hybrid processes was evaluated with the removal efficiencies of turbidity, ammonia and organic matter. The results indicated that more than 99% of particle count was removed by both hybrid processes and ozonation had no significant effect on its removal. BAC filtration greatly improved the removal of ammonia. Increasing the dissolved oxygen to 30.0 mg/L could lead to a removal of ammonia with concentrations as high as 7.80 mg/L and 8.69 mg/L for Processes A and B, respectively. The average removal efficiencies of total organic carbon and ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm （UV254, a parameter indicating organic matter with aromatic structure） were 49% and 52% for Process A, 51% and 48% for Process B, respectively. Some organic matter was oxidized by ozone and this resulted in reduced membrane fouling and increased membrane flux by 25%-30%. However, pre-ozonation altered the components of the raw water and affected the microorganisms in the BAC, which may impact the removals of organic matter and nitrite negatively.展开更多
文摘This paper addresses increasing concern about the pollution threat of used oil being illegally dumped and the impact of oil on air pollution and freshwater ecosystems in Asian countries. Used oil is a very serious waste management problem. These results call for management action such as maximising the collection and recovery of used oil. The Thai government recognizes the need to recycle used oil and has been active in encouraging programs to accomplish this goal. Thus unless new approaches and incentives are developed, used oil generation may become an increasing serious problem to our environment. The purpose of this study is to examine the technical and economic feasibility, of recycling used oils. In addition, this paper briefly discusses the problems to be overcome and outlines potential mechanisms for providing the necessary disposal controls in order to maximize the protection to public health and environmental quality from potential hazards posed by used lube oil disposal.
文摘Volatile organic compounds(VOCs)are the important precursors of the tropospheric ozone(O3)and secondary organic aerosols(SOA),both of which are known to harm human health and disrupt the earth’s climate system.In this study,VOC emission factors,O3 and SOA formation potentials were estimated for two types of industrial boilers:coal-fired boilers(n=3)and oil-fired boilers(n=3).Results showed that EVOCs concentrations were more than nine times higher for oil-fire d boilers compared to those for coal-fired boilers.Emission factors ofΣVOCs were found to be higher for oil-fired boilers(9.26-32.83 mg-VOC/kg)than for coal-fired boilers(1.57-4.13 mg-VOC/kg).Alkanes and aromatics were obtained as the most abundant groups in coal-fired boilers,while oxygenated organics and aromatics were the most contributing groups in oil-fired boilers.Benzene,n-hexane and o-ethyl toluene were the abundant VOC species in coal-fired boiler emissions,whereas toluene was the most abundant VOC species emitted from oil-fired boilers.O3 and SOA formation potentials were found 12 and 18 times,respectively,higher for oil-fired than for coal-fired boilers.Total OFP ranged from 3.99 to 11.39 mg-O3/kg for coal-fired boilers.For oil-fired boilers,total OFP ranged from 36.16 to 131.93 mg-O3/kg.Moreover,total secondary organic aerosol potential(SOAP)ranged from 65.4 to 122.5 mg-SOA/kg and 779.9 to 2252.5 mg-SOA/kg for the coal-fired and oil-fired boilers,respectively.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51221892)the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(No.2012AA062606,2012BAJ25B04)the People Programme(Marie CurieActions) of the European Union’s Seventh Programme FP7/2007-2013 under a REA grant(No.318926)
文摘The occurrence of antibiotics in the environment has recently raised serious concerns regarding their potential threat to human health and aquatic ecosystem. A new magnetic nanocomposite, Fe304@C （Fe304 coated with carbon）, was synthesized, characterized, and then applied to remove five commonly-used sulfonamides （SAs） from water. Due to its combinational merits of the outer functionalized carbon shell and the inner magnetite core, Fe3O4@C exhibited a high adsorption affinity for selected SAs and a fast magnetic separability. The adsorption kinetics of SAs on Fe304 @ C could be expressed by the pseudo second-order model. The adsorption isotherms were fitted well with the Dual-mode model, revealing that the adsorption process consisted of an initial partitioning stage and a subsequent hole-filling stage. Solution pH exerted a strong impact on the adsorption process with the maximum removal efficiencies （74% to 96%） obtained at pH 4.8 for all selected SAs. Electrostatic force and hydrogen bonding were two major driving forces for adsorption, and electron-donor-acceptor interactions may also make a certain contribution. Because the synthesized Fe304@C showed comprehensive advantages of high adsorptivity, fast magnetic separability, and prominent reusability, it has potential applications in water treatment.
文摘Four environmental and biological monitoring sites were strategically established to evaluate benzene and lead exposure assessment at various traffic zones of Bangkok Metropolitan Region(BMR). Biological measurement of 48 non air-conditioned, male bus drivers was carried to study the relationship between individual exposure levels and exposure biomarkers. The study group was further sub-divided into four age groups(16—25, 26—35, 36—45 and 46—55 years old) to monitor the age—related exposure effects. A total of 12 unexposed persons were deliberately chosen as the control group. Measurement of unmetobolized benzene in blood and analysis of urinary tt-Muconic acid urine and urinary creatinine are recommended as biomarkers of benzene exposure. Measurement of lead in blood and urine is also recommended for the biological monitoring of lead exposure. During the monitoring period, benzene and lead levels at Yaowarat Road was C_6H_6: 42.46±3.88 μg/m 3, Pb: 0.29±0.03 μg/m 3 and decreased to C_6H_6: 33.5±1.35 μg/m 3, Pb: 0.13±0.01 μg/m 3 at Phahonyothin Road. Significant difference was established between the nonsmoking exposed group and nonsmoking control group for blood benzene concentrations ( P <0.001, two-tailed, Mann-Whiteney U test). Strong correlations were also found between trans-trans-Muconic acid concentrations in post shift samples and atmospheric benzene concentrations. Similarly, good correlation between all of biomarkers and lead level in air is established from automobile emissions.The analysis revealed that among the occupational population in the urban sites, the driver groups were found to have the highest risk of benzene and lead exposures derived from automobile emission.
文摘In this article, we review the current knowledge of the glacial recession and related glacial lake development in the Andes of South America. Since the mid-1980 s, hundreds of glacial lakes either expanded or formed, and predictions show that additional hundreds of lakes will form throughout the 21 st century. However, studies on glacial lakes in the Andes are still relatively rare. Many glacial lakes pose a potential hazard to local communities, but glacial lake outburst floods(GLOFs) are understudied. We provide an overview on hazards from glacial lakes such as GLOFs and water pollution, and their monitoring approaches. In real-time monitoring, the use of unmanned aerial systems(UASs) and early warning systems(EWSs) is still extremely rare in the Andes, but increasingly authorities plan to install mitigation systems to reduce glacial lake risk and protect local communities. In support, we propose an international remote sensing-based observation initiative following the model of, for example, the Global Land Ice Measurements from Space(GLIMS) one, with the headquarters in one of the Andean nations.
文摘Parametric effect of moisture and influence of operating variables on the adsorption behaviour of polyaspartamide during CO2 capture was investigated in this study using experimental and modelling approach. Individual effects of operating conditions (e.g. pressure, temperature and gas flow rates) as well as the effect of moisture on the adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide were methodically investigated using Dubinin-Raduskevich model. Results from the investigations reveal that the presence of moisture in the flue gas had an incremental effect on the adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide;thereby showcasing the potential of polyaspartamide as a suitable hydrophilic material for CO2 capture in power plants. In addition, pressure, temperature and gas flow rates at 200 kPa, 403 K, and 1.5 mL/s, respectively, sig? nificantly influenced the CO2 adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide. Physisorption and chemisorption both governed the adsorption process while equilibrium studies at different temperatures showed that Langmuir isotherm could adequately describe the adsorption behaviour of the material with best fit with R^2>0.95.
文摘To reveal the multivariate relationships between man-made and meteorological factors on dust storm frequency, the LUCC data, NDVI remote sensing data and meteorological data for the period of 1983-2013 were combined with dust storm frequency data, and the possible impacts of meteorological and anthropogenic factors on dust storm frequency were analyzed by using regression analysis and PCA (Principal Component Analysis). Results show that the inter-annual dust storm frequency increased gradually. In particular, an increasing trend in recent years, after 2009, is conspicuous. The monthly frequency of dust storms shows higher values between the months of February and May, with the highest mean number of events occurring in April, which accounts for 29% of the annual dust storm frequency. The annual dust storm frequency is positively correlated with wind speed and negatively correlated with precipitation;the monthly dust storm frequency is positively correlated with wind speed, but no significant correlation can be found with precipitation. The relationship between temperature and dust storms is not simply linear, however, a certain correlation with an unremarkable statistical significance can be found between them. Human activities also affect the dynamics of dust storms indirectly via changing vegetation coverage and direct dust emissions. The multivariate analysis further confirmed the association between dust storm frequency and meteorological factors and NDVI. The high loadings of dust storm frequency, wind speed, precipitation and NDVI on a PC indicate that the increased precipitation and NDVI will decrease dust storm frequency, and increased wind speed will increase dust storm frequency.
文摘This study was conducted to assess the occupational exposure and its health impact on the chromium alloy workers. Environmental and biological monitoring, noise and audiometry measurements were done to evaluate the exposure levels in the factory. A total of 112 non-smoking workers were monitored from July 2001 to August 2002 The results showed that most of the chromium and lead exposures in the factory were below the ACGIH-TWA of 50 μg/m 3 for chromium(Ⅵ) and OSHA-PEL of 50 μg/m 3 for lead. The highest chromium(7 25±0 16 μg/m 3) and lead(14 50±0 29 μg/m 3) concentrations were measured in the vibro room. The results indicated that elevated concentrations of chromium and lead were found in both blood and urine samples especially in those areas which were characterized by poor ventilation. The metal contents in blood and urine samples were significantly correlated with airborne metal concentrations in the factory. The result demonstrated that blood and urinary levels among workers were associated with increasing age and duration of exposure. The background noise level of the factory ranged from 67 6 to 89 2 dBA and was frequently higher than the threshold limit value for noise(90 dBA). According to the audiometric test, the exposed workers showed signs of noise-induced hearing loss. Noise at work continued to be an important factor to hearing loss among exposed workers. In our statistical analysis, a significant hearing loss was established on age effect and year of exposure among the workforce.
基金This research was funded by the authors with help from Fundacion para la Investigacion en Etologıa y Biodiversidad(FIEB),who funded a small portion of the hormonal analyzes.
文摘Human activities involving noise emission can affect wild animals.European mink was exposed to road noise and human voice playbacks to analyze how sound intensity level and duration of both noises altered the time that individuals were active and if their fecal cortisol metabolite(FCM)levels varied.A Hierarchical Analysis Cluster was performed to establish 2 mink groups with respect to both noise source type:short duration/low intensity(SL)and long duration/high intensity(LH).We performed general linear mixed models to evaluate the variation in locomotor activity duration(s)and FCM(nanogram per gram)levels,respectively.The results showed both road noise and human voices decreased locomotor activity duration in SL more sharply compared with LH,and human voices were the triggers that induced the most pronounced response to both exposure conditions.FCM(ng/g)levels increased in SL compared with LH during road noise while the opposite happened during human voices.Differences based on sex and age of individuals were observed.In conclusion,noise characteristics given by the sound type determined the variations in locomotor activity duration while noise exposure level determined the variations in FCM(ng/g)levels.Attention should be paid to noisy activities(e.g.,recreational activities for visitors in protected natural areas)and loud groups of people to conserve wildlife,especially noise sensitive species.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(20528706)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(20090450385)
文摘Intermolecular geometries and energies of the dimers formed between simple aromatic hydrocarbons （benzene, toluene and naphthalene） and sulfate species （sulfuric acid, bisulfate and sulfate） were studied by density functional theory. The AH：H2SO4 complexes were determined by the OH-π H-bond, with H2SO4 acting as the H-bond donor and AHs as the aeeeptor. However, the AHs：HSO4- and AHs：SO4^2- complexes were established by the H-bond, with AHs serving as acid and HSO4 or SO4^2- as alkali. The atmospheric implications of those complexes were strongly supported by their considerable binding energies.
文摘The direct dumping of solid wastes into the rivers, discharge of industrial effluents together with direct discharge of domestic sewage have excessively polluted the major rivers Bagmati and Bish-numati. Groundwater along these river corridors is also affected from pollution of these rivers. Two major rivers: Bagmati and Bishnumati and shallow tube wells adjacent to these rivers were monitored for 2 years. Samples were analysed for the stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen (δD and δ18O) and selected physico-chemical parameters to investigate the possible interrelationship between river water and shallow groundwater along these river corridors. The physico-chemical values revealed that shallow groundwater and river water along the Bishnumati River corridor were heavily mineralized due to direct discharge of sewage wastes into this river. The isotope compositions of river water and shallow groundwater clustered together revealed possible interrelationship between them. Some of the isotopic compositions of groundwater and river water deviated below the Local Meteoric Water Line (LMWL) indicating that the water has undergone evaporation. The isotopic and chemical results suggested possible interrelationship between river water and groundwater. Fractional contribution of the river water to groundwater was calculated based on isotopic data using mass balance approach. Results showed that shallow groundwater SG1, along the Bagmati River corridor (in September 2013), was composed of approximately 30% - 40% Bagmati River water. Similarly, shallow groundwater SG5 of Bishnumati River corridor (in September 2013), was composed of approximately 45% - 50% river water. This result indicated that high portion of river water mixed-up with adjoining shallow groundwater along the river corridors. Further, the mix-up of the river water with groundwater can be harmful when rivers are polluted. These findings can be useful for a better understanding of hydrogeological processes at the river-aquifer interface and eventually benefit water management of the Kathmandu Valley in future.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (20528706)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (20090450385)
文摘Density functional theory was used at the B3LYP/6-311＋＋G（d,p） level of theory to study the hydrates of 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O for n = 0～4. Neutrals of the most stable clusters, when n = 0 and 1, spontaneously formed and were determined to be hydrogen-bonded molecular complexes of monomeric species. Double ions （clusters containing a NH4＋ cation and a HSO4- anion） or even ternary ions （clusters with two NH4＋ cations and one SO42- anion） spontaneously formed in the most stable clusters of 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O （n = 2, 3, 4）. The energetics of binding and incremental association was also calculated. Double ions are not energetically favorable until 2NH3：H2SO4：2H2O because of the about equal free energies for forming the neutral （the most stable） and double ion （the second stable） isomers. The free energy of incremental association from free H2O and 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O has a maximum at n = 2 at room temperature with ΔG ≈ –2 kcal/mol. The comparison of incremental association energies between 2NH3：H2SO4：nH2O, NH3：H2SO4：nH2O and H2SO4：nH2O clusters revealed that NH3 plays an important role in the atmospheric particle nucleation.
文摘In the United Republic of Tanzania (URT), all environmental issues related to the mining industry are regulated according to two principle Acts: The Mining Act and the Environmental Management Act, and their respective regulations. The current acts were enacted in 2010 and 2004 respectively. Mineral exploration (that includes all on-site activities performed before a mining project is declared feasible) projects in URT appears to be “unforgotten phenomena” in the two major legislative documents, when it comes to environmental considerations. This phenomenon is believed to be causing detrimental effects to the environment. This paper, therefore, analyzes the current environmental regulatory framework on mineral exploration projects in URT and discusses few examples in which mineral exploration projects have caused damage to the indigenous environment. Furthermore, this study reviews environmental regulatory frameworks from other few countries in comparison with existing environmental regulatory framework prevailing in URT.
文摘Antimicrobial pollution in surface waters has become an urgent environmental issue globally,yet few studies have specifically focused on the prevalence and impacts of antimicrobial contaminants in Tanzanian surface waters.This review article presents a comprehensive assessment of antimicrobial pollutants in Tanzania’s aquatic ecosystems,filling a critical gap in the current literature.The findings reveal widespread contamination of surface waters,primarily with antibiotics,from diverse sources,including domestic sewage,agricultural runoff,industrial effluents,and healthcare facilities.This work integrates findings from a range of disciplines,including environmental monitoring,public health,and agricultural practices,to provide a holistic understanding in the Tanzanian context.The presence of antimicrobial pollutants may lead to the promotion of antimicrobial resistance,disruption of microbial communities,and risks to human health through food chain.Therefore,there is a call for further studies to assess the extent of antimicrobial pollution in Tanzania and its broader implications for both environmental and public health.
基金supported by the Ocean Plastic Turned into an Opportunity in Circular Economy(OPTOCE)project(No.102019800-1,QZA-0835/RAS-18/0027)Norway and the AIT–SINTEF I collaboration project,Thailand.
文摘Most developing countries commonly dispose of solid waste fractions in open dumps and landfills.This study analysed the composition of municipal solid waste(MSW)at a dumpsite in Thailand,where plastic waste constituted 35%–62% of excavated waste across different sampling depths.Excavated plastic waste was classified by resin codes,with low-density polyethylene(LDPE)dominating 86%of plastic waste from 2012 to 2014 and decreasing to 43%in 2019.The analysis revealed that unbranded single-layer packaging predominated,with branded plastics increasing from 4%to 6%(2012,2013,and 2014)to 17%(2019).Dumpsite mining operations at the Pathum Thani site produced approximately 100 t of refuse-derived fuel(RDF)per day,generating revenue of 800–1200 THB per ton.However,the process also generated 40–50 t of residual waste daily,consisting of soil-like material mixed with plastic waste(20%plastics,35%combustible fractions,and the remaining mainly soil type materials).These residues failed Thai compost standards due to high electrical conductivity(8.2 dS/cm vs.standard≤3.5 dS/cm)and low germination index(4.43%vs.standard≥80.00%).Recommendations include adjusting the moisture content of input waste and modifying sieve sizes to improve output quality,with approximately 50%of soil fractions potentially recoverable through screening at<12.5 mm.The study estimates total plastic waste in the dumpsite to be 36559.79 t,with a potential revenue of 35 million THB if fully processed.The implementation of site-specific management studies,promotion of dumpsite mining,reduction of unbranded plastics consumption,and extended producer responsibility(EPR)policies are crucial for achieving circularity of plastic waste fractions.
基金funding from the National Science Foundation(NSF Award 2114701)of the United States.
文摘This study advances the DRASTIC groundwater vulnerability assessment framework by integrating a multi-hazard groundwater index(MHGI)to account for the dynamic impacts of diverse anthropogenic activities and natural factors on both groundwater quality and quantity.Incorporating factors such as population growth,agricultural practices,and groundwater extraction enhances the framework’s ability to capture multi-dimensional,spatiotemporal changes in groundwater vulnerability.Additional improvements include refined weighting and rating scales for thematic layers based on available observational data,and the inclusion of distributed recharge.We demonstrate the practical utility of this dynamic DRASTIC-based framework through its application to the agro-urban regions of the Irrigated Indus Basin,a major groundwater-dependent agricultural area in South Asia.Results indicate that between 2005 and 2020,54%of the study area became highly vulnerable to pollution.The MHGI revealed a 13%decline in potential groundwater storage and a 25%increase in groundwater-stressed zones,driven primarily by population growth and intensive agriculture.Groundwater vulnerability based on both groundwater quality and quantity dimensions showed a 19%decline in areas of low to very low vulnerability and a 6%reduction in medium vulnerability zones by 2020.Sensitivity analyses indicated that groundwater vulnerability in the region is most influenced by groundwater recharge(42%)and renewable groundwater stress(38%).Validation with in-situ data yielded area under the curve values of 0.71 for groundwater quality vulnerability and 0.63 for MHGI.The framework provides valuable insights to guide sustainable groundwater management,safeguarding both environmental integrity and human well-being.
基金Research Supporting Project(RefRSP-2021/160)King Saud University。
文摘In this work Gd/La@ZnO nanoflower photocatalyst was successfully synthesized by a co-precipitation method and applied for rhodamine B(Rh B)and tetracycline(TCN)degradation under direct sunlight irradiation.The doping of rare earth elements extends the optical absorption wavelength of ZnO from UV region(390 nm)to visible-light region(401 nm).In addition,the co-doped ZnO nanoflower exhibits a lower charge recombination efficiency which was confirmed by photoluminescence emission analysis.Moreover,the co-doped ZnO nanoflower exhibits the maximum degradation efficiency of 91%for Rh B and 74%for TCN under sunlight irradiation.The calculated synergistic index of co-doped ZnO is higher than that of the pure ZnO.Reactive radicals’production was confirmed by terephthalic acid(TA)and nitro-blue tetrazolium(NBT)tests.The holes and hydroxyl(·OH)radicals play the major role in degradation reaction and it was confirmed by scavenger’s test.Moreover,the recycling test confirms the stability of the photocatalyst.
基金Project supported by the Research and Development Foundation of Science and Technology in the Bureau of Science Technology and Informa-tion in Shenzhen in 2007partially supported by National Key Technology Research and Development Program of China
文摘The Au/CeO2 catalysts were synthesized by co-precipitation (CP), deposition-precipitation (DP) and metallic colloids deposition (MCD) method, and tested for oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It was revealed that the Au/CeO2 catalyst prepared by DP method was the most efficient catalyst towards the total oxidation of toluene. The Au/CeO2 catalysts had obviously high catalytic activity, and the best results was obtained on 3 wt.% Au/CeO2 catalyst prepared by DP method. These catalysts were chara...
基金supported by the National Grand Water Project(No.2008ZX07423-002)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.50978170)the Guangdong Provincial Funding(No.2012B030800001)
文摘Two hybrid processes including ozonation-ceramic membrane-biological activated carbon （BAC） （Process A） and ceramic membrane-BAC （Process B） were compared to treat polluted raw water. The performance of hybrid processes was evaluated with the removal efficiencies of turbidity, ammonia and organic matter. The results indicated that more than 99% of particle count was removed by both hybrid processes and ozonation had no significant effect on its removal. BAC filtration greatly improved the removal of ammonia. Increasing the dissolved oxygen to 30.0 mg/L could lead to a removal of ammonia with concentrations as high as 7.80 mg/L and 8.69 mg/L for Processes A and B, respectively. The average removal efficiencies of total organic carbon and ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm （UV254, a parameter indicating organic matter with aromatic structure） were 49% and 52% for Process A, 51% and 48% for Process B, respectively. Some organic matter was oxidized by ozone and this resulted in reduced membrane fouling and increased membrane flux by 25%-30%. However, pre-ozonation altered the components of the raw water and affected the microorganisms in the BAC, which may impact the removals of organic matter and nitrite negatively.
