International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

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.

In line with the Paris Climate Agreement, the European Union’s Green Deal targets achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Accordingly, research and development efforts to minimize the carbon footprint of industrial production processes and products have gained increasing importance, particularly in light of border carbon adjustment mechanisms and compliance requirements. Therefore, reducing the environmental impact of products already in use through innovative design and development is a critical priority. This study addresses these challenges by proposing a novel waste heat recovery (WHR) system integrated into a gas-fired (natural gas and LPG) commercial cooking oven prototype. The main objective is to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions by reusing exhaust gases (CO, CO₂ , etc.) generated during cooking. The recovered waste heat is used to preheat the air–fuel mixture, lowering fuel consumption and contributing to energy optimization and environmental sustainability. Inspired by the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) concept used in automotive applications, the proposed system was adapted for commercial cooking appliances. Simulation studies guided the design process, enabling the development of an original WHR system through university–industry collaboration. The findings highlight the potential of waste heat recovery in commercial cooking ovens to reduce carbon emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and support the transition towards sustainable industrial practices.

A Carbon Footprint (CF) is defined as the total emissions of greenhouse gases caused directly and indirectly by an individual, event, organization or product,expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2 eqv). The objective of this case study is to provide examples of strategies for low footprint of Apple Production and Apple Processing as well as best practices and guidance on the use of equipment for planting, fertilizing and harvesting for specific crops like apple orchards. It covers the general principles and provides guidance for these specific areas.

Agriculture is responsible for large part of the land use and the agricultural productivity increases significantly during the last decades. Important past is the mechanization which leads to a dramatic rise of labour productivity. Improved production techniques, intensive use of fertilizers and pesticides and progress of plant breeding helped to increase the yields. However, excesses use of these inputs has resulted in a variety of problems, such as eutrophication and toxicity. Agricultural production is the main source of several major emissions. Examples are ammonia (NO3). More than 90% comes from agricultural sectors, methane (CH4) and nitrate (NO3-). For these reasons, the study of the agricultural production systems (APS) and their influence on the environment is a major priority. Particularly apple
and apple juice production company was study to find the optimum solution for reduction of carbon emission.