Journal of Applied Research of Chemical -Polymer Engineering

Abstract Research subject: Oil and gas transmission pipelines are considered critical energy transportation arteries and are exposed to various threats. Natural phenomena, such as earthquakes and floods, as well as human-related factors, including unsafe excavation activities and operational failures, are among the main causes of leakage and performance disruptions in transmission lines. The 16-inch Mansouri oil field pipeline, with a length of 33 km, transports 75,000 barrels of crude oil per day from the field’s gathering center to the Ahvaz booster pump station. In this study, the pressure drop along the pipeline and the volume of fluid released into the environment due to leaks of different sizes were calculated using transient flow simulation.
Research approach: Transient multiphase flow simulations were performed using the OLGA simulator. Operational and field data were used to construct the initial model. The initial hydraulics of the pipeline model were calibrated by adjusting parameters such as internal pipe roughness, fluid viscosity, and gas–oil ratio (GOR) to minimize deviation from actual operating conditions. The calibrated model was then used to predict pressure drops and leakage flow rates. The modeling results can support the design of leak detection and warning systems, particularly real-time transient model–based systems.
Main results: The results indicate that, for leak diameters of 1 cm, 10 cm, and a full-bore rupture, the pressure drop rate at the pipeline inlet is approximately 0.0001 bar/s, 0.06–0.28 bar/s, and 0.25–5 bar/s, respectively. These pressure drop rates are critical for determining the automatic shutdown time in real-time transient model (RTTM) systems.

Abstract Research subject: The growing global water crisis has intensified the need to advance desalination technologies. In this regard, thermal desalination methods such as Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) and Multi-Effect Distillation (MED) are considered suitable options in regions where saline water sources are located near petrochemical and refinery plants. Their suitability stems from their capability to utilize low-grade thermal energy sources, such as flue gases from industrial processes.
Research approach: This study investigates and compares the performance of MSF and MED technologies within a flue gas heat recovery scenario. A detailed mathematical modeling framework is developed for both systems, incorporating mass and energy balance equations, heat transfer mechanisms, and economic evaluation metrics. The models are validated through comparison with experimental data obtained from various industrial units to ensure reliability and accuracy.
Main results: Simulation outcomes show that MSF, operating at a 50% recovery rate using flue gas as a heat source, has a water production cost of approximately $0.80 per cubic meter, while MED, under similar conditions, achieves a lower cost of $0.40 per cubic meter. Furthermore, the specific energy consumption is calculated to be about 15.9 kWh/m³ for MSF and 11.3 kWh/m³ for MED. Greenhouse gas emissions in the MED system are estimated to be 41% lower than in MSF at the same recovery level. From an environmental standpoint, the pollutant intensity of the concentrated brine generated by the two technologies is essentially the same. Overall, MED demonstrates superior performance over MSF in the context of flue gas heat recovery integration, due to its lower energy consumption, reduced operational cost, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and minimized environmental impact. This study provides a comprehensive and validated numerical framework that can support simulation-based optimization of thermal desalination systems for sustainable water production.

 

Abstract Research subject: Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is one of the key methods to increase oil recovery from reservoirs, utilizing chemical, physical, or thermal techniques. Among chemical methods, ionic liquids (ILs) have attracted attention as potential alternatives to traditional materials such as surfactants and polymers due to their unique properties, including stability under harsh environmental conditions such as high temperature and salinity, and tunability for specific reservoir conditions.
Research approach: Ionic liquids can serve as surfactant substitutes in enhanced oil recovery processes, but they require proper synthesis and development. Higher environmental sustainability and reduced water consumption are advantages of these materials compared to traditional methods. However, research shows that their impact on EOR performance is relatively limited and requires further optimization, laboratory tests, and simulations. In this article, recent research on the application of ionic liquids in enhanced oil recovery operations is comprehensively reviewed, focusing on their characteristics, mechanisms, experimental results, challenges, and future prospects.
Main results: A review of recent studies shows that ionic liquids can significantly reduce the water/oil interfacial tension and alter the wettability of reservoir rock, both of which are key factors in improving oil transport. For example, the ionic liquid 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium triflate has shown the ability to reduce interfacial tension significantly. Tests suggest that these materials can recover up to 30% more of the original oil in place.Many ionic liquids also show a strong affinity for asphaltenes and act as solvents and dispersants. This property helps prevent asphaltenes from settling and depositing in the wellbore and around its production zone, which can significantly improve oil flow and production. Ionic liquids can reduce the viscosity of crude oil, making it easier to flow through the reservoir and reducing pressure gradients. However, most studies have been conducted on sandstone reservoirs, and research in carbonate reservoirs is limited, highlighting the need for further investigations.

Abstract The protective coatings and flexible packaging industries play a pivotal role in modern society. They contribute to human health, safety, comfort, and economic progress. Initially, these materials were produced from naturally occurring components; however, they have since evolved into intricate compositions designed to fulfill various performance criteria.  Currently, the majority of these materials are discarded in landfills, and their carbon content cannot be recovered or reused efficiently. In recent years, database statistics show a steady increase in research related to functional coatings, reflecting the growing interest in innovative and sustainable solutions. The global focus on reducing reliance on fossil fuel products and mitigating environmental impacts is accelerating efforts to integrate renewable resources into coating technologies. These technologies utilize bio-based raw materials, including biopolymers and natural oils, as well as biodegradable materials derived from microorganisms, plants, and animals. To address environmental concerns, leading coatings and packaging manufacturers have launched scientific and technical research to improve the sustainability of their products. Ongoing research focuses on the development of bio-derived materials, the adoption of energy-efficient manufacturing processes, the design of long-lasting products, and the use of sustainable and renewable resources. In addition, companies seek financial and competitive advantages through proactive internal initiatives. This highlights the urgent need for a circular economy model that overcomes current limitations in recycling and decomposition technologies. The authors stress the significance of comprehending society's tendency to prioritize and value sustainability, along with the financial and competitive advantages that may result from adopting proactive in-house efforts.

Abstract Abstract
Research subject: This study investigates the effect of processed walnut shell Biomass (PNB) on the thermal and tribological performance of eco-friendly brake pads. Since brake pads are safety-critical components, they must provide both thermal stability and wear resistance. Replacing conventional fillers with biomass-based reinforcements such as walnut shell powder offers a sustainable alternative to asbestos while potentially improving overall performance.
Research approach: Brake pad composites were fabricated by incorporating 0–4 wt.% PNB into the base formulation through controlled mixing, molding, and curing. The produced specimens were examined using a combination of analytical and mechanical techniques. Thermogravimetric (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were performed to evaluate degradation behavior and char formation. Microstructural characterization was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess the dispersion of reinforcing particles and the quality of interfacial bonding. In addition, wear resistance and hardness tests were conducted to measure the tribological and mechanical performance of the pads.
Main results: The results revealed a dual effect of PNB addition. Incorporating up to 3 wt.% PNB improved thermal stability, increased char residue, and led to a more uniform microstructure with better particle dispersion. At this composition, surface hardness and wear resistance were also enhanced, while non-uniform wear decreased. However, higher PNB contents (>3 wt.%) resulted in significant deterioration of thermal resistance, formation of porous regions, and weakened interfacial adhesion, causing unstable frictional behavior and lower wear performance. In conclusion, 2-3 wt.% PNB was identified as the optimum composition, ensuring a desirable balance between hardness, wear resistance, and thermal durability.

Abstract Research subject: Non-soap-based greases formulated with bentonite are widely considered suitable lubricants for demanding industrial applications due to their high thermal stability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. However, the inherent structure of natural bentonite can limit its lubrication performance. Acid activation is one of the effective strategies to enhance its functional properties.
Research approach: In this study, Iranian bentonite was activated using sulfuric acid at two concentrations (0.25 M and 3 M) and then incorporated as a thickening agent with SN180 base oil. The synthesized grease samples were evaluated using FTIR, XRF, FESEM, Four-Ball Wear Test (ASTM D2266), and Dropping Point Test (ASTM D2265).
Main results: The FTIR and XRF results indicated that acid activation reduced aluminum and structural water content while increasing the silica content in bentonite. FESEM images confirmed increased porosity and surface heterogeneity as a result of acid treatment. The four-ball wear test showed that the grease containing bentonite activated with 0.25 M acid exhibited superior anti-wear performance compared to other samples, whereas the 3 M acid-treated sample demonstrated weaker performance due to structural degradation. All samples showed acceptable thermal performance in the dropping point test, with values exceeding 272 °C. These findings suggest that the proper control of acid activation conditions plays a crucial role in optimizing the structural and functional properties of non-soap-based greases.