The efficiencies and performance of gas turbine cycles are highly dependent on parameters such as the turbine inlet temperature (TIT), compressor inlet temperature (T1), and pressure ratio (Rc). This study analyzed the effects of these parameters on the energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and specific fuel consumption (SFC) of a simple gas turbine cycle. The analysis found that increasing the TIT leads to higher efficiencies and lower SFC, while increasing the To or Rc results in lower efficiencies and higher SFC. For a TIT of 1400 ℃, T1 of 20 ℃, and Rc of 8, the energy and exergy efficiencies were 32.75% and 30.9%, respectively, with an SFC of 187.9 g/kWh. However, for a TIT of 900 ℃, T1 of 30 ℃, and Rc of 30, the energy and exergy efficiencies dropped to 13.18% and 12.44%, respectively, while the SFC increased to 570.3 g/kWh. The results show that there are optimal combinations of TIT, To, and Rc that maximize performance for a given application. Designers must consider trade-offs between efficiency, emissions, cost, and other factors to optimize gas turbine cycles. Overall, this study provides data and insights to improve the design and operation of simple gas turbine cycles.

In this review are developed insights from the current research work to develop the concept of functional materials. This is understood as real modified substrates for varied applications. So, functional and modified substrates focused on nanoarchitectures, microcapsules, and devices for new nanotechnologies highlighting life sciences applications were revised. In this context, different types of concepts to proofs of concepts of new materials are shown to develop desired functions. Thus, it was shown that varied chemicals, emitters, pharmacophores, and controlled nano-chemistry were used for the design of nanoplatforms to further increase the sizes of materials. In this regard, the prototyping of materials was discussed, affording how to afford the challenge in the design and fabrication of new materials. Thus, the concept of optical active materials and the generation of a targeted signal through the substrate were developed. Moreover, advanced concepts were introduced, such as the multimodal energy approach by tuning optical coupling from molecules to the nanoscale within complex matter composites. These approaches were based on the confinement of specific optical matter, considering molecular spectroscopics and nano-optics, from where the new concept nominated as metamaterials was generated. In this manner, fundamental and applied research by the design of hierarchical bottom-up materials, controlling molecules towards nanoplatforms and modified substrates, was proposed. Therefore, varied accurate length scales and dimensions were controlled. Finally, it showed proofs of concepts and applications of implantable, portable, and wearable devices from cutting-edge knowledge to the next generation of devices and miniaturized instrumentation.

This comprehensive review examines recent innovations in green technology and their impact on environmental sustainability. The study analyzes advancements in renewable energy, sustainable transportation, waste management, and green building practices. To accomplish the specific objectives of the current study, the exploration was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines in major academic databases, such as Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect. Through a systematic literature review with a research influence mapping technique, we identified key trends, challenges, and future directions in green technology. Our aggregate findings suggest that while significant progress has been made in reducing environmental impact, barriers such as high initial costs and technological limitations persist. Hence, for the well-being of societal communities, green technology innovations and practices should be adopted more widely. By investing in sustainable practices, communities can reduce environmental degradation, improve public health, and create resilient infrastructures that support both ecological and economic stability. Green technologies, such as renewable energy sources, eco-friendly construction, efficient waste management systems, and sustainable agriculture, not only mitigate pollution but also lower greenhouse gas emissions, thereby combating climate change. Finally, the paper concludes with recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to foster the widespread adoption of green technologies.

Carbon based materials are really an integral component of our lives and widespread research regarding their properties was conducted along this process. The addition of dopants to carbon materials, either during the production process or later on, has been actively investigated by researchers all over the world who are looking into how doping can enhance the performance of materials and how to overcome the current difficulties. This study explores synthesis methods for nitrogen-doped carbon materials, focusing on advancements in adsorption of different pollutants like CO₂ from air and organic, inorganic and ions pollutants from water, energy conversion, and storage, offering novel solutions to environmental and energy challenges. It addresses current issues with nitrogen-doped carbon materials, aiming to contribute to sustainable solutions in environmental and energy sciences. Alongside precursor types and synthesis methods, a significant relationship exists between nitrogen content percentage and adsorption capacity in nitrogen-doped activated carbon. Nitrogen content ranges from 0.64% to 11.23%, correlating with adsorption capacities from 0.05 mmol/g to 7.9 mmol/g. Moreover, an electrochemical correlation is observed between nitrogen atom increase and specific capacity in nitrogen-doped activated carbon electrodes. Higher nitrogen percentage corresponds to increased specific capacity and capacity retention. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the potential of nitrogen-doped carbon materials and highlights their significance in addressing critical environmental and energy challenges.

The rapid growth of portable electronics and electric vehicles has intensified the global demand for high-performance energy storage devices with superior power density, energy density, and long cycle life. Among transition metal oxide-based electrode materials with potential for energy storage, we report the development of MnO2–V2O5 nanocomposite electrodes for supercapacitor applications. Pure MnO2 and V2O5 were successfully fabricated via a simple and economical sol–gel method, while (MnO2)x–(V2O5)1−x (x = 1, 0.75, 0.50, and 0) nanocomposites were fabricated through an ex situ method. Analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy, were employed to investigate the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the electrodes. Furthermore, the electrochemical properties were systematically analysed using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The (MnO2)0.75–(V2O5)0.25 nanocomposite demonstrated a remarkable specific capacitance of 666 F/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g in 1 M KOH electrolyte. Additionally, the electrode material exhibited an energy density of 23 Wh/kg and a power density of 450 W/kg, while maintaining a capacitance retention of 95% after 1,500 cycles. The incorporation of V2O5 boosted the conductivity and significantly optimised the number of lattice defects. This work substantially reinforces the importance of metal oxide-based nanocomposites for future energy storage devices.

The US Infrastructure Investment and Job Act (IIJA), also commonly referred to as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, passed in 2021, has drawn international attention. It aims to help to rebuild US infrastructure, including transportation networks, broadband, water, power and energy, environmental protection and public works projects. An estimated $1.2 trillion in total funding over ten years will be allocated. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is the largest funding bill for US infrastructure in the recent history of the United States. This review article will specifically discuss funding allocations for roads and bridges, power and grids, broadband, water infrastructure, airports, environmental protection, ports, Western water infrastructure, electric vehicle charging stations and electric school buses in the new spending of the Infrastructure Investment and Job Act and why these investments are urgently necessary. This article will also briefly discuss the views of think tank experts, the public policy perspectives, the impact on domestic and global arenas of the new spending in the IIJA, and the public policy implications.