High Loading Fe-supported Fischer–Tropsch Catalysts: Optimization of the Catalyst Performance

The iron loading of catalysts, supported on SiO₂, was investigated between 10 and 75 wt%, with and without the addition of promoters (K and Cu), in order to highlight the different catalytic performances of the samples in the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. An optimization study of the prepared catalysts (active metal/promoters ratio, catalysts’ activation procedure before the Fischer–Tropsch runs, influence of the feeding gas composition) is reported. The mechanical resistance of the catalysts was also evaluated using a suitable method involving ultrasound.     

An Automated Tool for Smart Water Network Partitioning

Water Network Partitioning (WNP) represents the application of the “divide and conquer” paradigm to a Smart WAter Network (SWAN) that allows the improved application of techniques for water balance and pressure control. Indeed, these techniques can be applied with greater effectiveness by defining smaller permanent network parts, called District Meter Areas (DMAs), created by the insertion of gate valves and flow meters. The traditional criteria for the design of network DMAs are based on empirical suggestions (number of properties, length of pipes, etc.) and on approaches such as ‘trial and error’, even if used together with hydraulic simulation software. Nevertheless, these indications and procedures are very difficult to apply to large water supply systems because the insertion of gate valves modifies the original network layout and may considerably worsen the hydraulic performance of the water network. The proposed tool, based on some graph partitioning techniques, commonly applied in distributed computing, and on an original optimisation technique, allows the automatic design of a WNP comparing different possible layouts that are compliant with hydraulic performance. In this paper, the methodology was tested on a real case study using some performance indices to compare different WNPs. The proposed tool was developed in Phyton and integrates graph partitioning, hydraulic simulation techniques and a heuristic optimisation criterion. It allows the definition of DMAs with resulting performance indices that are very similar to the original network layout.     

Modeling of copper sorption onto GFH and design of full-scale GFH adsorbers

During rain events, copper wash-off occurring from copper roofs results in environmental hazards. In this study, columns filled with granulated ferric hydroxide (GFH) were used to treat copper-containing roof runoff. It was shown that copper could be removed to a high extent. A model was developed to describe this removal process. The model was based on the Two Region Model (TRM), extended with an additional diffusion zone. The extended model was able to describe the copper removal in long-term experiments (up to 125 days) with variable flow rates reflecting realistic runoff events. The four parameters of the model were estimated based on data gained with specific column experiments according to maximum sensitivity for each parameter. After model validation, the parameter set was used for the design of full-scale adsorbers. These full-scale adsorbers show high removal rates during extended periods of time.     

A Decision Support System Based on AHP for Ranking Strategies to Manage Emergencies on Drinking Water Supply Systems

Water Resources Management - The provision of critical services, such as drinking water, is crucial both in ordinary and in emergency conditions due to either natural (e.g. earthquakes, droughts,...