Successful pathway for locally driven fuel cell electric vehicle adoption: Early evidence from South Korea

South Korea is an outstanding pioneer of fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology, an industry that is fundamental to the hydrogen ecosystem. This study aims to explore possible pathways for the successful adoption of FCEV in the local region. By using the fuzzy-set quality comparative analysis (fs/QCA) method, we identify three auspicious pathways based on the 16 regional cases in Korea. We find that, first, a large number of hydrogen (H₂) stations will lead to successful FCEV adoption (H₂ STATION→FCEV). Second, the combination of high levels of greenhouse gases(GHGs) and the local government-driven future construction plans of H₂ stations can also be a remarkable pathway (GHGs1 PLAN→FCEV). Lastly, a combination of high levels of GHGs and subsidies can be another compelling pathway (GHGs1 SUBSIDIES→FCEV). This study provides early evidence of FCEVs adoption and can be of use to latecomer countries to the hydrogen economy.     

X-ray scattering studies of molecular linkages in Zeolite microcrystal monolayers

We have measured X-ray reflectivity curves of silicalite-1 microcrystal (MC) monolayers on Si wafers using two different types of molecular linkages, namely, through chloropropyl (CP) groups and through CP/polyethylene imine/CP groups. While the scanning electron microscope images of the two MC monolayers are indistinguishable of molecular linkage between the monolayers and the substrate, their reflectivity curves are distinctively different, despite the fact that the thicknesses of the molecular linkage layers (∼ 10-20 Å) are negligibly small compared to the thicknesses of MC monolayers, (∼ 3200 Å). We demonstrated that X-ray reflectivity is a very useful tool for the characterization of very thin layers of molecular linkages existing between much thicker MC monolayers and the substrate.     

A simulation approach for optimal design of RFID sensor tag-based cold chain systems

This study introduced a systematic approach for assessing alternative operational models and to determine optimal values for some of the core design parameters in an RFID sensor tag-based cold chain system. First of all, we defined an RFID and sensor data collection and storage model. Next, we developed an RFID sensor tag-based cold chain simulation model and a simulator based on Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) formalism. Finally, based on a case study, we demonstrated a procedure for determining the optimal sensing interval value with the proposed simulator. The results from the case study have shown that the proposed approach presents important advantages to analyze the Key Performance Indicator (KPI) of cold chain systems according to changes of RFID sensor tag-based cold chain system’s operation models and parameter values.     

Release of N-nitrosamines and N-nitrosatable substances from baby bottle teats and rubber kitchen tools in Korea

Food Science and Biotechnology - Ensuring the safety of baby bottle teats and kitchen tools made from rubber is critical. Therefore, the migration of N-nitrosamines and N-nitrosatable substances...