Innovations
Vol. 14 (2026), Issue 1

Table of Contents

  • INNOVATION POLICY AND INNOVATION MANAGEMENT

    • The influence of environmental regulations on corporate innovation processes in Slovakia

      pg(s) 3-6

      The paper examines the relationship between environmental regulations and innovation processes in Slovak enterprises. The theoretical part is based on concepts of environmental policy, its instruments, environmental management and eco-innovation. The paper assumes that environmental regulations may function not only as constraints but also as stimuli for technological, process, product and ecological innovations. The empirical part is based on a questionnaire survey conducted among 121 enterprises operating in Slovakia. The results indicate that environmental regulations and environmental protection requirements influence business innovation processes, but they are not the only or dominant motive for innovation. Firms innovate more often due to social responsibility, economic efficiency, general legislative requirements and cost reduction. At the same time, the main barriers to innovation are high costs, complicated legislation and insufficient state support. The paper highlights the need for a more comprehensible regulatory framework, wider use of environmental management systems and stronger support for eco-innovation.

    • Trends and risks of industrial innovation development in the republic of belarus

      pg(s) 7-10

      The study analyzes the impact of growing global economic instability on the innovation activity of Belarusian industry. Despite external pressures, the share of enterprises implementing innovations increased from 20.4% in 2016 to 36% in 2024, with especially rapid growth in the Brest region. However, innovation expenditures remain highly volatile, sharply declining in 2022 and recovering only by 2024, particularly in import‑dependent regions. Significant regional disparities persist in innovation performance: the Vitebsk region exceeds 30% of innovative products, while the Grodno region remains at 7%. Innovation services remain low nationwide but show rapid growth in individual regions. The findings indicate that innovation development in Belarus is progressing yet remains vulnerable to currency, logistics, technological, and sanctions-related risks, underscoring the need for integrated risk management models tailored to regional conditions.

  • INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

    • Study of the utility properties of selected types of polymer powder coatings

      pg(s) 11-14

      This paper deals with the study and evaluation of the utility properties of selected types of polymer powder coating systems applied to S235JR structural steel. The primary objective was to assess the influence of the coating system composition (combination of primer and topcoat versus individual layers) on its mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The experimental part included surface preparation by blasting, electro kinetic application of four types of coating systems (Corro zinc 97, Corro coat MX, and Corro coat PE-F), followed by testing of roughness, thickness, adhesion, and bending resistance. Corrosion resistance was evaluated in a condensation chamber. The measurement results confirmed that the plasticity, measured by the bending angle, decreases with increasing coating thickness. The highest adhesion was exhibited by the combined coating system Corro zinc 97 + Corro coat MX. Corrosion tests demonstrated the crucial importance of the zinc-rich primer, which significantly slowed down the spread of sub-corrosion at the site of mechanical damage

    • A new Signal Panel with Led Edge lighting and uniform luminescence on both sides

      pg(s) 15-18

      The paper refers to an edge-lit LED signage panel able to provide uniform luminance on both sides of the visible surface. The panel structure is of a sandwich type, consisting of PMMA sheets, backlit films and printed self-adhesive film, all mounted within a slim aluminium frame. Illumination is achieved by means of a continuous rope-type LED strip positioned on the upper edge, while light uniformity is obtained through light transmission across the mass of the Plexiglas Edge Lighting material and through reflection from aluminium metallic films applied to the lateral sides. The panel ensures low energy consumption, has a very small thickness (10–15 mm), Wi-Fi connectivity, and modular cascade installation capability. It is intended for heavily trafficked indoor spaces, offering a modern, reliable and aesthetic solution for signage and advertising. The integrated configuration using Shelly Plus RGBW PM modules establishes a smart, energy-efficient, and remotely monitored signage system for interior spaces. This configuration is fully compatible with existing BMS infrastructure and scalable for future expansion across additional zones.

    • Innovative AI Modelling for Wettability Control in Laser‑Structured Functional Surfaces

      pg(s) 19-23

      Controlling wettability is increasingly essential for innovative applications in advanced manufacturing, energy systems, and biomedical engineering. This study presents an AI-driven modelling framework that predicts the wettability of laser-textured microstructured surfaces using height-map-based geometric analysis. Both synthetic and experimentally derived textures were converted into true 8-bit height maps, allowing for the extraction of important topographical descriptors such as Sa, Sq, Sz, Sdr, solid fraction (φ), and dominant spatial period. These parameters were integrated into a hybrid predictive approach that combines machine-learning techniques with physics-based wetting models (Wenzel and Cassie-Baxter). Young’s intrinsic contact angle was optimized using real experimental data, enabling accurate predictions across two regimes for a set of ten engineered test surfaces.

    • Optimization of natural gas reforming parameters in the midrex process to increase hydrogen yield and reduce fuel consumption

      pg(s) 24-28

      In this paper, a comprehensive analysis of the process of natural gas reform in MIDREX technology was carried out, which was aimed at optimizing this process in order to increase hydrogen yield, reduce the specific consumption of natural gas and minimize the risks of soot formation. The paper also calculates the thermal balance, combined steam-carbon dioxide reforming (SMR + DRM). Based on the conducted studies, optimal reforming modes were determined: gas outlet temperature ~915-920°C; H2O/C ~1.8; increased CO2 fraction. Switching to an optimized reforming mode reduces natural gas consumption by 5.5%, increases H2 output by 6.4%, and reduces CO2 emissions due to better energy efficiency and H2 addition potential. The results obtained in this work are useful for upgrading existing Midrex installations in the direction of decarbonization, including the transition to MIDREX Flex/H2 technologies.

    • Comparative tests of sprayed concrete, intended for repair and restoration works by dry and wet spraying Part I: Physical and mechanical characteristics

      pg(s) 29-32

      The basic principles of sprayed concrete mix design are reviewed. The technological options for use of the material for repairs and restoration works, executed by “wet” and “dry” spraying methods, are analysed.
      Widespread research program is developed and implemented for assessment of the main physical-mechanical and structural characteristics of sprayed concrete for repairs and restoration works. New (author’s) compositions are prepared for this purpose, which are subjected to series of tests, together with factory made products, in form of dry mixes, by leading producer. Two compositions of sprayed concrete are chosen after preliminary selection – conventional for “dry” spraying and specially designed hybrid fiber-reinforced high-tech sprayed concrete for “wet” application method. The numerous additional components are included in the composition of the latter – high range water-reducing admixture based on polycarboxylate ether, polymeric modifier for enhancing of fresh mix compactness and rebound decreasing and new generation internal deep capillary-crystalline admixture.
      Original scientific results are obtained concerning the basic physical-mechanical and stress-strain characteristics of both compositions of sprayed concrete. The critical comparative analysis of the results is presented and the right options for the application of the compositions are suggested.

    • Backdraft Damper for Fully Stopping the Backflow Air through Vetntilation Appliences, Including Low Power Fans

      pg(s) 33-36

      Based on the patent number 67081 from 15.06.2020 issued by BPO, a back draft damper (shutter) for fully stopping the backflow
      air is being developed. The commonly foreseen butterfly shutters, have slits and allow odors, wet and pathogens to enter through the vents
      when ventilating devices are turned off. Available are shutters, using blades, with additional sealing mounted, which can solve the problem,
      but they can operate only with powerful fans. Opening becomes problematic if used with low power domestic fans. On the world market
      there is no fully closing shutter capable to work with the common low power fans. The present innovation works on the principle of the ball
      check valve, as an assembly of multiple truncated cones containing low weight balls. It offers a solution of the shutter’s incomplete closure
      problem, suitable to operate with any fan. During the research, many parameters are being investigated to reach the optimal solution

    • Investigating the effectiveness of compost and liquid fertilizer obtained from an electro-generative composter

      pg(s) 37-40

      This study investigates the effectiveness of a liquid organic soil fertilizer and compost obtained through the degradation of green waste in a bio-electrochemical system. The substrate produced by an electro-generative composter was applied to humus- and nutrient-poor soil planted with Lens culinaris (lentils). The results demonstrate a clear positive impact of the organic fertilizer and compost on soil fertility and plant growth. Compared to a control group, the treated soil exhibited higher concentrations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), along with improved moisture retention and lower acidity. Consequently, plants grown in the treated soil displayed significantly greater stem and root lengths, fresh and dry weights, and overall biomass. These findings highlight the potential of bio-electrochemical systems for sustainable waste management and the production of valuable organic fertilizers that enhance soil health and crop productivity.

    • Antimicrobial activity of aqueous-alcoholic extracts of waste materials from red sweet pepper, red hot pepper and eggplant against pathogenic microorganisms. Part I

      pg(s) 41-43

      Pepper and eggplant processing generates significant amounts of waste raw materials, such as peels, seeds, stems and residual pulp. These waste products are rich in bioactive components, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, capsaicinoids and glycoalkaloids, which determine their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Therefore, waste raw materials from peppers and eggplants represent a potential for industrial application. The aim of the present study was to determine the phenolic acid content in aqueous-alcoholic extracts of red sweet peppers, red hot peppers and eggplants as well as their antimicrobial activity against pathogenic microorganisms, causing food-borne toxicoinfections and toxicoses. Aqueous-alcoholic (20%, 40%, 70%) extracts of waste raw materials of red sweet peppers, red hot peppers and eggplants were used in the present study. Phenolic acids were determined by HPLC, and the antimicrobial activity – by agar diffusion method with wells. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by the serial dilution method. The aqueous-alcoholic extracts from waste raw materials of red sweet peppers, red hot peppers and eggplants exhibited bactericidal activity against the pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25293, Salmonella enteritidis ATCC 13076, Salmonella abony NTCC 6017, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19111, Pseudomonas aeruginosa NBIMCC 1390, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 19433, with inhibition zones of 9 mm to 20 mm and MIC ranging from 60 ppm to 600 ppm. The relationship between the antimicrobial activity of the aqueous-alcoholic extracts and the presence of bioactive components with an inhibitory effect in them has been revealed. Their water-alcoholic extracts are rich in phenolic acids, which also determine their antimicrobial activity against pathogenic and saprophytic microorganisms. The flours obtained from them are carriers of bioactive components and have antimicrobial action. This makes them suitable for use in the food industry