Browsing by Author "Ahmad Mustafa"

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Combustion enhancement and emission reduction in an IC engine by adopting ZnO nanoparticles with calophyllum biodiesel/diesel/propanol blend: A case study of General Regression Neural Network (GRNN) modelling
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-03-14) M. Srinivasarao; Ch. Srinivasarao; A. Swarna Kumari; Bikkavolu Joga Rao; Pullagura Gandhi; Seepana PraveenKumar; Olusegun D. Samuel; Ahmad Mustafa; Christopher C. Enweremadu; Noureddine Elboughdiri
Even though higher alcohols (HAs) and nanoparticles have the tendency to enhance engine behaviours (EBs), namely performance, emissions, and combustion characteristics, and ensure a greener environment, the absence of a reliable model to predict and model the appropriate HA dosage to blend with nanoparticles in green diesel (GD) has affected the biodiesel and automotive industries. For the first time, a study adopted a generalized regression neural network (GRNN) to investigate the influence of propanol-2 as one of the HAs, zinc oxide (ZnO) as one of the nanoparticles, and Calophyllum biodiesel (CB) as GD on EBs. The study focused on the effect of adding propanol-2 and ZnO fuel enhancers on the engine features and performance, combustion, and emissions of a CB blend (CB20) in an internal combustion (IC) engine. The results showed improved engine performance, with brake thermal efficiency increasing by 0.06 %, 1.71 %, and 3.91 %, and specific fuel consumption reduced by 5.83 %, 7.4 %, and 11.53 %, respectively, compared to CB20 fuel. The highest cylinder pressure of 70.84 bar was observed at the 120 ppm nano additive blend, while the highest heat release rate (HRR) of 36.65 J/℃A was observed at the same concentration of nano additives. Furthermore, the inclusion of ZnO nano condiments caused a decrease in carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and smoke emissions by 38.7 %, 14.9 %, 4.8 %, and 2.48 %, respectively, at higher dosages of nano additives in the CB20 blend. A computational model based on a GRNN was constructed for further analysis of engine efficiency and emissions behaviour. The GRNN model accurately predicted output variables for various blends, with correlation coefficient (R) values varying from 0.98284 to 0.99959, with lesser RMSE and MAPE values within acceptable boundaries. The highest cylinder pressure of 70.84 bar was observed at the 120 ppm nano additive blend, while the highest heat release rate (HRR) of 36.65 J/℃A was observed at the same concentration of nano additives. Furthermore, the inclusion of ZnO nano condiments caused a decrease in carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and smoke emissions by 38.7 %, 14.9 %, 4.8 %, and 2.48 %, respectively, at higher dosages of nano additives in the CB20 blend. A computational model based on a GRNN was constructed for further analysis of engine efficiency and emissions behaviour. The GRNN model accurately predicted output variables for various blends, with correlation coefficient (R) values varying from 0.98284 to 0.99959, with lesser RMSE and MAPE values within acceptable boundaries. The results also showed that the GRNN models are advantageous for network simplicity and require less data, making them reliable tools for predicting and modelling EP of the latest fuel for researchers and stakeholders in the automotive industry.
Converting lignocellulosic biomass into valuable end products for decentralized energy solutions: A comprehensive overview
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-11-01) Ahmad Mustafa; Shah Faisal; Jaswinder Singh; Boutaina Rezki; Karan Kumar; Vijayanand S. Moholkar; Ozben Kutlu; Ahmed Aboulmagd; Hamdy Khamees Thabet; Zeinhom M. El-Bahy; Oguzhan Der; Cassamo Ussemane Mussagy; Luigi di Bitonto; Mushtaq Ahmad; Carlo Pastore
This review manuscript delves into lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) as a sustainable energy source, addressing the global demand for renewable alternatives amidst increasing oil and gas consumption and solid waste production. LCB, consisting of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, is versatile for biochemical and thermochemical conversions like anaerobic digestion, fermentation, gasification, and pyrolysis. Recent advancements have led to a 25 % increase in bioethanol yields through alkali pre-treatment and optimized fermentation, a 20 % enhancement in microbial delignification efficiency, and a 35 % improvement in enzyme efficiency via nanobiotechnology. These innovations enhance biofuel production sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Decentralized energy systems utilizing locally produced biomass can reduce transmission losses and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30 %, fostering community energy independence. These developments significantly contribute to global sustainability and socio-economic development by converting waste into valuable energy, promoting environmental stewardship, and supporting economic resilience. Furthermore, this review also discusses innovative strategies to address technological, economic, and environmental challenges and highlights the role of decentralized solutions in promoting sustainable energy production.
Eco-Friendly Extraction of Sustainable and Valorized Value-Added Products From Ulva fasciata Macroalgae: A Holistic Technoeconomic Analysis
(Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2025-02-26) Nour Sh. El-Gendy; M. Shaaban Sadek; Hussein N. Nassar; Ahmad Mustafa
Te present work conducts a detailed technoeconomic analysis of an environmentally friendly zero-waste biorefnery process to valorize marine Ulva fasciata macroalgae into diferent sustainable value-added products. Te proposed sequential fully integrated process yielded 34.89% mineral-rich water extract (MRWE), 2.61 ± 0.5% chlorophyll, 0.41 ± 0.05% carotenoids, 12.55 ± 1.6% starch, 3.27 ± 0.7% lipids, 22.24 ± 1.8% ulvan, 13.37 ± 1.5% proteins, and 10.66 ± 0.9% cellulose. Te Aspen Plus software, utilizing the nonrandom two-liquid (NRTL) model, was applied for process design, simulation, and technoeconomic analysis. Key fndings include a positive net present value (NPV) of $49,755,544.90, a high return on investment (ROI) of 485%, and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 17%. Te anticipated payback period is 7 years, indicating a quick recovery of the initial investment. Tese fndings confrm that Ulva fasciata is a promising resource in the biorefnery industry, providing a viable and eco-friendly alternative for the production of bio-based products and a new market for seaweed-based products.
Harnessing non-edible Quercus incana seeds for sustainable and clean biodiesel production using seed-derived green Al2O3 nanocatalyst
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-10-21) Mumna Munir; Mushtaq Ahmad; Abdulaziz Abdullah Alsahli; Lixin Zhang; Sokhib Islamov; Shazia Sultana; Cassamo Ussemane Mussagy; Ahmad Mustafa; Mamoona Munir; Bisha Chaudhry; Maria Hamayun; Sarwar Khawaja
The challenges of resource scarcity and waste deposition have increased raw material costs and imposed stricter waste management regulations. This study presents the first attempt to utilize high oil-yielding Quercus incana seeds (55.77 wt%, 0.28 % FFA) as a novel waste feedstock for synthesizing a bio-fabricated Al2O3 nanocatalyst and its application in producing high-quality biodiesel. A maximum biodiesel yield of 97.6 % was achieved under optimal conditions, including a 1:9 oil-to-methanol ratio, a 120-minute reaction time at 70 °C, and 0.25 % catalyst concentration. The formation of biodiesel was confirmed through various analytical techniques, such as 1H- and 13C NMR, FTIR, and GC–MS. Additionally, the physicochemical properties of the biodiesel, including sulfur content (0.00047 wt%), TAC (0.20 mg KOH/g), cloud point, and pour point (−11 °C), were analyzed and compared to international biodiesel standards to ensure its stability, sustainability, and eco-friendliness. The production of biodiesel from Quercus incana, a non-edible, uncultivated waste feedstock, supports a greener revolution and a net-zero carbon society. It also promotes smarter waste management practices globally.
Integrating environmental remediation with biodiesel production from toxic non-edible oil seeds (Croton bonplandianus) using a sustainable phyto-nano catalyst
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-11-05) Ulfat Zia; Mushtaq Ahmad; Abdulaziz Abdullah Alsahli; Ikram Faiz; Shazia Sultana; Angie V. Caicedo-Paz; Cassamo U. Mussagy; Ahmad Mustafa
In the current situation of the environmental uprising toxicology, rising global temperature, and energy-depleting urges to explore and discover more renewable and greener ecological-benefiting energy resources. Biobased renewable fuels generated by using waste products can help in waste management, climate change mitigation, and a low-carbon future. The main objective of this research is to produce environment-friendly and cost-effective biofuel. The potentiality of the novel, toxic, waste, and inedible feedstock Croton bonplandianus was evaluated for biodiesel synthesis through transesterification utilizing a Phyto-nano catalyst of potassium oxide prepared by Croton bonplandianus floral stalk's aqueous extract focusing on waste management. Phyto-nano catalyst characterization was done through innovative tools such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), Zeta Potential (ZP), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS). The characterization results revealed that the potassium oxide phyto-nanocatalyst possesses an average nanoparticle size of 44.5 nm. This size is optimal for enhanced catalytic activity, indicating significant potential for efficient catalysis. The highest yield (94 %) of biodiesel was secured at optimized reaction conditions of catalyst quantity (0.50 wt%), reaction time (180 min), methanol: oil ratio (9:1), and reaction thermal point (70 °C). Transformation of triglycerides to methyl esters was confirmed by GC/MS, NMR, and FTIR techniques. A total of 21 methyl esters were observed in Croton bonplandianus biodiesel confirmed via GC/MS results. Evaluation of fuel properties was done and matched with international fuel standards. The conclusive remarks for the conducted research are that Croton bonplandianus has a high potential for biodiesel production by applying Phyto-nanocatalysts of potassium oxide while dealing with hazardous environmental conditions and waste management. Phyto nanocatalyst of potassium oxide can be reused and gives the same yield after several cycles of reusability, this reusability of heterogenous Phyto nanocatalyst can reduce to total cost of biodiesel production and can contribute towards circular economy.
Methanol/Kerosene Blends as Fuel
(Elsevier, 2025-03-17) Sadia Abdullaha; Mamoona Munira; Mushtaq Ahmadb; Ahmad Mustafa
Methanol/kerosene blends are the mixtures of methanol and kerosene. These blends have gained tremendous attention now a days as potential substitutes to traditional jet fuels owing to eco-friendly nature, higher flash points and octane number, thus reducing the toxic emissions compared to fossil fuels. China provides methanol fuel at prices that are usually 30%–50% less expensive than petrol and it is currently the largest methanol producer and consumer globally. Automobiles can be modified to operate on increased methanol blends, varying from 500 to 1000 (US$73–146) thereby making methanol the common and accessible fuel for automobiles. Methanol-Kerosene in different blends exhibits promising results when used in aircraft and micro turbo engine. By offering a direct path to drastically cut emissions from industry, shipping, overland transportation, aviation and power generation, methanol produced from renewable source has emerged as a greener and best substitute to traditional fuels. Methanol-kerosene blends can be hazardous and poisonous if not handled properly and safely, the same is also true for petrol and diesel. To tackle the toxic nature of these blends, a multidisciplinary strategy involving chemistry, materials science, toxicology, and environmental science, along with cooperation between academics, stakeholders and regulatory bodies is likely required. Additionally, in depth analysis of methanol-kerosene blends and their generation from biomass and waste products is currently the need of time so as to achieve the sustainability decarbonation and resilience society. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.
Novel strategies for valorizing red araça pomace: Cyanidin-rich extracts recovery and sustainable bioenergy production
(Institution of Chemical Engineers, 2025-01-14) Cassamo U. Mussagy; Henua U. Hucke; Fabiane O. Farias; Julia Tretin; Leonardo M. de Souza Mesquita; Mauricio A. Rostagno; Jérémy Valette; Mushtaq Ahmad; Ahmad Mustafa; Vijaya Raghavan; Diakaridia Sangaré
This study investigates the valorization of red araçá pomace (RAP) from Easter Island (Rapa Nui) for extracting cyanidin-rich antioxidants and generating bioenergy. Using a UHPLC-PDA system, we characterized the extractable pigments, optimizing extraction conditions with bio-based solvents to achieve a maximum yield of 2.70 mg/L of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, which constituted approximately 98 % of the extract. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH and FRAP assay, revealing a strong antioxidant capacity. Additionally, pyrolysis of the residual colorless biomass indicated significant energy recovery potential, with thermodynamic analysis showing an energy difference of less than 4.67 kJ/mol between activation energy and enthalpy. This pioneering research highlights the dual benefits of utilizing RAP for health-promoting compounds while addressing waste management through sustainable bioenergy solutions.
Seaweed valorization as anaerobic co-substrate with fat, oil, and grease: Biomethane potential and microbial dynamics
(Elsevier Ltd, 2025-02-05) Shah Faisal; Adel W. Almutairi; Irfan Saif; Li Ting; Qingyuan Wang; Ahmad Mustafa; Reham Ebaid
The present study explored the anaerobic co-digestion (AcD) of seaweed Gracilaria vermiculophylla with fat, oil, and grease (FOG) at 75, 50, and 25 % w/w of volatile solids (VS). Mono-digestion of FOG and SW led to a methane production of 133 and 109 mL/(g.d) with 40 days lag-phase, lower than 235 mL/(g.d) of AcD at FOG-50:SW-50 with reduced lag-phase of 20 days. The palmitic and oleic acid reduction was 95 % in the reactors FOG-50:SW-50, followed by FOG-25:SW-75, which was 84 %, as compared to FOG mono-digestion (47 %). Relative abundance of Firmicutes, Chloroflexi, and Bacteroidetes were enriched during AcD. The relative abundance of Methanosaeta was enhanced (40–90 %) in FOG-50:SW-50 compared with FOG-100:SW-0 as the reduction in Methanosaeta was replaced by Methanoculleus (30 %) and RuMen-M2 (10 %). The present study offers essential perspectives for the AcD of FOG with SW, showcasing the benefits of SW as a co-substrate for improved methane recovery from FOG.