sebanti articleIn a thought-provoking paper titled “Justice A Distant Dream for Acid Attack Survivors,” published in 360 Info, Dr Sebanti Chatterjee, Assistant Professor in the Department of Liberal Arts, delves deep into the persistent challenges faced by acid attack survivors.

Despite the existence of legal provisions aimed at addressing gender-based violence, the harrowing reality is that acid attacks continue to be a stark and under-addressed form of violence. Dr Chatterjee’s paper sheds light on this critical issue, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, support, and legal reform to provide justice and support for survivors.

Through her research, she underscores the importance of recognising and prioritising the plight of acid attack survivors, urging for collective action to create meaningful change. As advocates for social justice, it is imperative that we amplify their voices and work towards a future where justice is not a distant dream but a tangible reality for all survivors.

Abstract

Acid attacks can occur in private or public. These attacks are often rooted in ‘jilted lover’ syndrome or as a manifestation of continued domestic violence. Few cases offer a different narrative: one woman was attacked to teach her father a lesson about property disputes. Ultimately, the acid attack is yet another demonstration of patriarchy’s brutishness.
My (unpublished) research in 2021 with acid attack survivors (including Rima), lawyers, police and other stakeholders in West Bengal — as part of a collaboration between National Human Rights Commission and National Law School of India University, Bangalore — found that despite these various legal advances, acid attack as a form of violence is not prioritised as an issue needing immediate attention, unlike rape and child trafficking.

DOI: 10.54377/e719-077c

Link

Future Research Plan

To explore how a state cultural heritage status makes us explore the social life of an instrument- it’s secular and sacred manifestations, questions of labour, gender and the sustainability model pertinent to its musical and material interpretations.

Topic of research

Soulful beats: Ecology, Labour and Aesthetics of Ghumott

alloy-foams

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is thrilled to announce a significant breakthrough in materials science has been achieved through the diligent research efforts of Prof. G S Vinod Kumar, Professor and Head of the Department and his Ph.D. scholar, Mr Dipak Bhosale in their latest paper, “Production, stability and properties of ultrafine MgAl2O4 (Spinel) particles stabilized Mg-3Ca alloy foams”. The study focuses on the development and detailed analysis of Mg–3Ca alloy foams, uniquely enhanced by ultrafine MgAl2O4 (spinel) particles. This innovative research outlines a novel methodology for improving the mechanical properties of magnesium foams, providing unparalleled advantages for a multitude of industrial applications.

Abstract

The present work reports the synthesis and mechanical behaviour studies of Mg–3Ca alloy foams stabilized by ultrafine MgAl 2 O 4 (spinel) particles. The MgAl 2 O 4 particles were created in-situ in the Mg–3Ca alloy melt through the reaction of Mg, Al and O. Foaming was done by adding dolomite (CaMg(CO 3 ) 2 ) as a blowing agent in the melt. The foaming behaviour was studied for different MgAl 2 O 4 content in Mg–3Ca and holding times (10 and 15 min). The study reveals that the presence of MgAl 2 O 4 significantly influences the foaming behaviour of Mg–3Ca alloy resulting in equiaxed cell structure, uniform cell size distribution, and higher expansion in comparison to the Mg–3Ca alloy foam, which contains only MgO and CaO. An in-depth phase and microstructural analysis were performed to investigate the particles present in the gas-solid interface of the foam that contribute to foam stabilization. The quasi-static compression studies of foams exhibited better compressive strength (≈3–11 MPa) and energy absorption capacity (≈1.3–5.7 MJ/m3) in comparison to the Mg foams reported in the literature. The ductility of the Mg foams was also measured and compared with that of existing aluminium foams.

mech-2

Research Highlights:-

  • Innovative Synthesis: The MgAl2O4 particles are synthesized in situ within the Mg–3Ca alloy melt via a controlled reaction involving Mg, Al, and O. This process ensures the uniform dispersion of spinel particles, which is critical for the foam’s structural integrity and performance.
  • Foaming Process: By employing dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) as a blowing agent, the research team meticulously explored the foaming behaviour under various MgAl2O4 contents and holding times (10 and 15 min). The findings highlight a marked improvement in foam expansion and stability.
  • Structural and Mechanical Analysis: Through comprehensive phase and microstructural analyses, the pivotal role of MgAl2O4 particles at the gas-solid interface in stabilizing the foam structure was uncovered. Quasi-static compression tests revealed outstanding compressive strength (≈3–11 MPa) and energy absorption capacity (≈1.3–5.7 MJ/m3), surpassing existing benchmarks for magnesium foams.

Key Properties and Applications:-

  • Low Density & High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: The Mg–3Ca alloy foams showcase an optimal balance of low density and high mechanical strength, rendering them ideal for lightweight structural applications.
  • Enhanced Energy Absorption: Their unique cellular structure provides superior energy absorption capabilities, suitable for impact and crash-resistant applications.
  • Biocompatibility: Owing to magnesium’s biocompatibility, these foams are highly promising for biomedical applications, including bone implants and scaffolds for tissue engineering.
  • Thermal Conductivity & Corrosion Resistance: Additionally, these foams exhibit advantageous thermal and corrosion-resistant properties, broadening their applicability across various environmental conditions.

Transformative Impact Across Industries:-

  • Aerospace and Automotive: The significant weight reduction capabilities, coupled with uncompromised strength, position the Mg–3Ca alloy foams as revolutionary materials for component design in the aerospace and automotive sectors.
  • Biomedical: Their biocompatible nature and structural characteristics make these foams an excellent option for medical implants and scaffolds, poised to improve patient outcomes in orthopaedics and tissue engineering significantly.
  • Energy and Beyond: From thermal management solutions in renewable energy systems to applications in sports equipment, the potential uses for these magnesium foams are extensive and diverse, heralding a new chapter in material science.

This groundbreaking research not only advances the field of magnesium foam technology but also paves the way for new possibilities in lightweight, high-performance materials across various industries. The team is dedicated to further exploring the capabilities of these innovative materials and eagerly anticipates partnering with industry stakeholders to transition these advancements from the laboratory to commercial applications.

In the era of scientific advancement, Prof. G S Vinod Kumar, HoD and his Research Scholar, Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale, from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at SRM University-AP, shine as a beacon of inspiration. The teacher-student duo were granted a patent for their research titled “Closed Cell Magnesium Alloy Foams Stabilized by Fly Ash Particles and A Method for Preparation for the Same.” This patent stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit and unwavering commitment to science.

Kudos to Prof. G S Vinod Kumar and Mr Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale for their exemplary dedication and foresight. Here’s an abstract of their patent-winning research.

Abstract:

A magnesium metal foam product enhanced with fly ash particles demonstrates versatility across multiple applications, including space, automotive, civil engineering, and marine uses. The stability of this magnesium alloy foam is attributed to the incorporation of fly ash particles, particularly alumina silicate (Al2SiO5) cenospheres. These cenospheres, hollow spheres derived from fly ash, serve as effective stabilisers for the magnesium alloy foam. The preparation involves reinforcing magnesium foamable precursors with fly ash particles, facilitating optimal foaming. The presence of fly ash particles ensures the stability of the liquid foam until solidification, resulting in a foam with a superior pore structure. With a contact angle ranging between 70° to 90°, the particles exhibit prolonged interaction with the liquid metal without agglomeration, dissolution, or reaction. This characteristic contributes to the attainment of desirable qualities essential for diverse applications.

Practical Application:

1. Aerospace: Magnesium foams can be used in lightweight structural components, thermal insulation, and vibration-damping systems in aerospace applications.

2. Automotive: In the automotive industry, magnesium foams find applications in lightweight body panels, crash absorbers, and acoustic insulation.

3. Biomedical: Due to their biocompatibility, magnesium foams are utilised in medical implants, such as bone fixation plates, and as scaffolds for tissue engineering.

4. Energy: These foams can be employed in thermal management systems, heat exchangers, and as structural components in renewable energy systems.

5. Sports and Leisure: Magnesium foams can be used in sports equipment such as helmets, pads, and protective gear due to their lightweight and impact-absorbing properties.

Patent Grant Number: 50830

 

PATENT FILED WITH TITANSRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED, a leading jewellery brand in India, have collaborated to engineer novel jewellery products using advanced materials and technologies. The joint research project, led by HOD Prof. G S Vinod Kumar and Ph.D. Scholar Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale, Department of Mechanical Engineering, has resulted in a new method of manufacturing foamed gold alloy that is lighter, stronger, and more durable than conventional gold jewellery.

A joint patent between SRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED has been filed for this innovative method of manufacturing foamed gold alloys. The jewellery products made from this material are currently available in TITAN showrooms under the brand name TANISHQ. The customers can enjoy the benefits of wearing lightweight and high-strength jewellery, which also has a high aesthetic appeal and value.

The collaboration between SRM University-AP and TITAN COMPANY LIMITED exemplifies how academia and industry can work together to create novel and useful products for society. The joint research project also provides an opportunity for the students and faculty of SRM University-AP to gain exposure and experience in the field of jewellery engineering and design and to contribute to advancing science and technology.

Abstract

The current innovation introduces a method for producing foamed gold alloy utilising a liquid metallurgical approach. Gas-releasing agents such as hydrides and carbonates are employed in the manufacturing process. Both 18K and 22K alloys are subjected to foaming in this invention. The resulting foams are stabilised by oxides generated in-situ as well as oxides added externally. These foamed gold alloys exhibit ultra-lower density. The foaming process is successfully executed using both interrupted and uninterrupted methods. These foamed gold alloys find applications in various fields including Jewellery and medical implants.

The title of patent in the citation format

“G. S. Vinod Kumar, Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale. A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A FOAMED GOLD ALLOY. Indian Patent application number 202341059195 filed Sep 04, 2023”

Patent Application number

202341059195

Inventors

1. G. S. Vinod Kumar 2. Dipak Nandkumar Bhosale

In the grand spectacle of democracy, every ballot cast represents a pivotal moment in shaping the collective destiny of a nation. However, what happens when the destiny of 1.4 billion people lacks a solid foundation of values and ethics?

Dr Vineeth Thomas, Assistant Professor at the Department of Liberal Arts, in his research paper titled “Ethical Society: A Premise On Which Successful Democracy Rests”, delves into these complexities of democratic regression that threaten to shake the foundations of our political system.

ABSTRACT:

Samuel Phillips Huntington’s thesis on the ‘Third Wave’ of democratisation, as presented in his seminal work “The Third Wave: Democratization in the Late Twentieth Century”, posited democracy as the preeminent and widely accepted form of governance. While democracy may prevail quantitatively in contemporary times, it grapples with numerous challenges in terms of its qualitative aspects. This research article identifies the absence or dearth of ethical values as a significant factor contributing to the erosion of democracies worldwide. Moreover, this erosion has the potential to incite a ‘new wave against democracy’. Consequently, this article aims to explore the potential remedy for this issue by anchoring democracy in an ethically conscious society. We contend that an ethically grounded society serves as a fundamental prerequisite for nurturing a high-quality and prosperous democracy, ultimately acting as a formidable barrier against the imminent and looming threats to democratic systems.

The link to the article

ese-research-ils

Dr Debajyoti Kundu and Dr Deblina Dutta, Assistant Professors, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, have conducted seminal research on Ionic Liquids (ILs) in their paper “Advances in ionic liquids: Synthesis, environmental remediation and reusability” published in the Q1 journal, Journal of Molecular Liquids with an impact factor of 6. In the research article, the faculty duo have delved into the unique properties of ionic liquids, focusing on their role in environmental cleanup and showcasing their ability to combat pollutants. Various methods to recycle and reuse ILs, develop eco-friendly ILs, and scale up their application for effective environmental remediation have also been extensively explored.

Abstract

Ionic liquids (ILs) are next-generation solvents synthesised by organic salts, possessing negligible vapour pressure and low flammability. They possess high thermal and electrochemical stability, can be reused for multiple cycles, and their properties can be tuned according to the components used in their synthesis. Hence, ILs are considered to be potential alternatives for conventional organic solvents for numerous applications such as environmental remediation, nanoparticle synthesis, catalysts in various chemical reactions, solvents for the extraction of biomolecules from recalcitrant lignocellulosic biomass, etc. In this review article, the holistic approach of ILs, starting from various techniques adopted for their synthesis along with its critical review, is discussed, followed by a detailed discussion of the mechanism involved in the remediation of environmental pollutants using ILs. Further, in-depth documentation of various environmental pollutants remediated using ILs has been done to date. One of the major drawbacks of solvent application is the reusability factor, and hence, in this review article, techniques adopted to recycle/reuse ILs have been discussed. Further, the adverse effects of using ILs for environmental remediation have been comprehensively discussed to present a holistic view. Future studies should focus on synthesising environment-friendly ILs and their field-scale applications for environmental remediation.

ese1

Practical implementation/social implications of the research

Their research on Ionic Liquids (ILs) presents a transformative approach to environmental challenges. By applying ILs on a larger scale for cleaning polluted air and water, promoting recycling and reusability, and developing eco-friendly ILs, the work has direct implications for industries and communities. The adoption of IL-based technologies contributes to efficient environmental cleanup and aligns with the growing societal demand for sustainable practices. Successful field-scale applications and public awareness initiatives can lead to a cleaner and healthier environment, demonstrating the tangible benefits of incorporating ILs into real-world solutions and fostering a more responsible and eco-conscious society.

Collaborations:-

  • National Institute of Technology Rourkela
  • ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi
  • National Institute of Technology Durgapur
  • CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute
  • Nguyen Tat Thanh University

Dr Kundu and Dr Dutta remarks that their future research in the realm of Ionic Liquids (ILs) will prioritise the development of environmentally sustainable synthesis methods, rigorous assessments of biodegradability and toxicity, and integrating ILs into industrial processes. Scaling up studies to evaluate their effectiveness in large-scale environmental remediation, investigating public perceptions, and fostering multidisciplinary collaborations with experts from diverse fields will be crucial for the responsible adoption of IL-based technologies. Additionally, focusing on life cycle assessments, exploration of novel applications, policy recommendations, and educational outreach can collectively contribute to advancing the understanding and practical implementation of ILs, ensuring a holistic and impactful approach to their environmental applications.

Click to read the article!

Human capital plays a crucial role in shaping an organisation’s growth in today’s digital age. It’s the idea generated by the human capital that leads to innovation. Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, along with his research scholars Ms Sreya B and Mr Akhil Pasupuleti, conducted a comprehensive study on human resource management in the information technology sector of Kerala. Their research paper titled “Exploring Human Capital’s Role in Driving Sustainable Organisational Development in the Era of Internet of Things” focuses on 320 participants from Kochi Infopark and investigates the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on their lives.

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT), a network of interconnected devices and sensors linked through the Internet, facilitates the connection between individuals, their devices, and vast amounts of data. Within companies, the human resources department plays a crucial role in managing the pressure generated by various aspects, including marketing, development, and the application of IoT in human resources. This study is motivated by the need to understand the potential of IoT in strategic human resource management practices. To explore the fundamental strategic human resource management practices and assess their mediating effects, this research gathered data from 320 respondents in the Kerala information technology sector, specifically Kochi Infopark, consisting of both lower-level executives and senior managers. The study utilises statistical analysis to examine the relationship between sustainable human resource practices, the Internet of Things, and sustainable human resource growth. Furthermore, the study highlights the IoT’s role as a mediator between strategic human resource management practices and factors contributing to sustainable HR growth, demonstrating a positive impact of independent variables on dependent variables. These findings emphasise the potential for organisations to enhance HR practices, decision-making, and innovation using IoT during crises and uncertainties. Integrating IoT with SHRM empowers organisations to effectively manage challenges and complex environments.

Practical Implementation

a) Employee Monitoring Systems: Implement IoT-enabled employee monitoring systems using sensors and wearable devices. This allows organisations to collect data on employee activities, health, and work environments. Analysing this data helps identify patterns, optimise resource allocation, and enhance overall employee well-being.

b) Talent Management Solutions: Utilise IoT devices to gather data on employee skills, competencies, and training needs. This information is valuable for developing personalised training programs, creating career paths, and strategising succession plans. Integrating IoT into talent management aligns HR practices with evolving workforce needs, leading to improved satisfaction and retention.

c) Remote Work Solutions: In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, leverage IoT-enabled remote work solutions. These solutions facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and virtual team management. Integrating IoT with HR practices enables organisations to effectively manage remote workforces, maintain employee engagement, and adapt to challenging circumstances.

 

Social Implications

a) Improved HR Practices: Integrating IoT with HR practices enhances decision-making and fosters innovation. This, in turn, contributes to improved HR practices, ensuring that organisations are equipped to address contemporary challenges and complexities.

b) Employee Well-being: The use of IoT in employee monitoring systems promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Organisations can proactively address health and safety concerns, leading to a healthier and more engaged workforce.

c) Skill Development and Career Growth: IoT-driven talent management solutions contribute to individual skill development and career growth. Employees benefit from personalised training programs, creating a positive impact on professional development.

d) Crisis Adaptability: The integration of IoT in remote work solutions demonstrates organisational adaptability during crises. This not only ensures business continuity but also highlights a commitment to employee welfare in challenging situations.

e) Technological Advancement: Embracing IoT showcases an organisation’s commitment to technological advancement. This can enhance the organisation’s image, attracting top talent and positioning it as an industry leader.

Future Research Plans

In their upcoming research endeavours, the trio will focus on unlocking the bottlenecks of IoT-driven remote work dynamics and its influence on collaboration, productivity, and employee well-being in the post-pandemic context. They also plan on exploring the impact of interconnected devices on the moonlighting behaviours of employees and employment trends in IT firms and among professionals.

We wish the trio all success in their future endeavours.

17th UDLSRM University-AP proudly hosted the seventeenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture series on the topic “Scientific Progress to Grand Progression: Opportunities and Challenges in Science-to-Technology-to-Market Paradigms.” The event took place on January 25, 2024, and featured an enlightening address by Dr Girish Sahni, Former Director General of CSIR and Former Secretary of the Government of India.

The lecture centered around the dynamic relationship between scientific progress and its translation into marketable technologies. Dr Girish Sahni shed light on the immense opportunities and challenges that arise in the process of transforming scientific advancements into tangible solutions for society. He emphasised the crucial role of imagination and concentration in fostering innovation, which ultimately leads to groundbreaking inventions. Dr Sahni’s thought-provoking discourse resonated with the audience, inspiring them to embrace curiosity and innovation in their pursuit of scientific excellence.

Following the lecture, an engaging Q&A session allowed the attendees to further explore the nuances of the topic and seek clarification on various aspects of science-to-technology-to-market paradigms. The interactive session fostered an environment of intellectual exchange and provided valuable opportunities for the audience to engage.

Reflecting on the significance of the University Distinguished Lecture, Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, remarked, “The lecture by Dr Girish Sahni illuminated the critical role of scientific progress in driving grand progression. It highlights the opportunities and challenges that lie before us in translating scientific advancements into meaningful technological solutions that can benefit society at large”.

The event was skillfully moderated by Dr Sutharsan Govindarajan, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences. Dr J P Rajapandiyan, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, expressed his appreciation for the enlightening lecture delivered by Dr Girish Sahni. He highlighted the significance of such platforms in fostering a culture of research and innovation within the university and beyond. Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean of Research, and Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Dean of Academic Affairs, presented a memento on behalf of the institution as a token of respect and appreciation for his esteemed presence at the seventeenth edition of the University Distinguished Lecture series.

This event stands as a testament to SRM University-AP‘s dedication to academic excellence and its ongoing efforts to provide students and faculty with enriching opportunities for intellectual growth and exploration.

research paper Vineeth thomasWe are pleased to announce the publication of an insightful article titled “From Incumbency to Dominance: BJP’s Electoral Prowess in Madhya Pradesh,” in the prestigious ABDC-B journal, Economic and Political Weekly (EPW). This article, authored by Dr Vineeth Thomas, Assistant Professor in the Easwari School of Liberal Arts provides a comprehensive analysis of the BJP’s journey from being an incumbent party to establishing dominance in the state’s political landscape.

Dr Thomas examines the factors that have contributed to the BJP’s electoral success in Madhya Pradesh, including the party’s organisational strength, leadership, and strategic alliances. The article also delves into the impact of various government policies and initiatives on the BJP’s electoral performance in the state.

Dr Thomas’s expertise in political analysis and his meticulous approach to the subject matter make this article a significant contribution to the scholarly discourse on Indian politics, particularly within the context of Madhya Pradesh. This research also enriches our understanding of contemporary political landscapes and aligns with our commitment to academic excellence.

Congratulations to Dr Vineeth Thomas for this impactful contribution to political scholarship!

Abstract

In the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious with a landslide majority. This electoral triumph, characterised by a significant mandate for the BJP, has undoubtedly reshaped the political dynamics of Madhya Pradesh. The landslide victory underscores the party’s stronghold in the region and signals a decisive mandate for the BJP to govern the state for the designated term. In this context, this article analyses various strategic factors that cleared the BJP’s path from incumbency to dominance in Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation of Research in Layperson’s Terms

In the dynamic landscape of Indian politics, Madhya Pradesh stands as a crucible of electoral battles, where the ebb and flow of political tides have shaped the destiny of the state. At the heart of this electoral competition lies the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), an entity that has not only weathered the storm of time but has also evolved from being a political contender to establishing unwavering dominance in Madhya Pradesh.

The 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election results revealed a clear mandate in favour of the BJP, securing an impressive 164 out of the total 230 seats. The overwhelming success is underscored by its triumph across different regions of the state. This comprehensive victory is particularly pronounced in the Malwa-Nimar region, which holds significant tribal populations. In this crucial area with 66 seats, the BJP secured a dominant 45 seats, leaving the Congress trailing with 20 seats, while the Bahujan Adhikar Party (BAP) clinched a lone seat. The BJP’s prowess is further evident in the Bundelkhand region, where it nearly swept the electoral landscape, securing 21 out of 26 seats, while the Congress was left with just five. Similarly, in the Vindhya region, the BJP emerged victorious in 25 out of 30 seats, leaving the Congress with a mere five. This regional dominance is a testament to the party’s strategic appeal and resonant policies. The saffron wave extended to Madhya Bharat, where the BJP outshone the Congress by winning a staggering 33 out of 36 seats (Malpani,2023). This substantial margin of victory indicates not only the party’s organisational strength but also its ability to connect with the electorate on a regional level.

So, how did the BJP complete the journey from a party in power to a political behemoth that has left an indelible mark on the state’s political canvas? A close examination in this regard unravels the fact that it is the conglomeration of clearly designed multiple tactics which gave the BJP a winning formula in the 2023 Madhya Pradesh assembly elections

Title of the Research Paper in Citation Format

Saravanan, Vineeth & Avunii, From incumbency to dominance. (2024, January 5). Economic and Political Weekly.

Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research

Policy makers and politicians can make prudent decision about one nation one election

Collaborations

Electoral Politics, ethics, commonwealth

Future research plans

Indian govt and politics

Link to the article

karthik-research

With the advent of the climate crisis, the use of the latest scientific technologies to develop methods for sustainable energy usage is pivotal. Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, his PhD scholar Mr Prabakaran G & UG Student Mr Nalluri Rishi Chaitanya Sri Prasad have filed and published a patent titled “A System and a Method for Building a Forecasting Model for Biogas Production” with Application No.: 202341074196, on their radical invention of predicting future biogas production using advanced Machine Learning techniques.

Abstract

The anaerobic digestion (AD) process poses challenges in maintaining process stability and time series-based prediction and forecasting due to the intricate nature of the system. Process instability is a consequence of the unpredictability in the raw material received at the facility, as well as temperature fluctuations and pH changes resulting from microbiological processes. Consequently, it is necessary to implement constant monitoring and control measures for higher biogas production. The challenges associated with anaerobic digestion (AD) systems can be effectively addressed through the integration of advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms and industry 4.0 systems within biogas facilities. This integration holds the potential to enhance system efficiency and enable on-site control capabilities. Machine learning (ML) based solutions have the potential to enhance process performance in AD facilities, leading to improved system operation and maintenance. The present study focuses on advanced ML techniques, specifically time series algorithms (ARIMA and SARIMAX), which have been employed to forecast daily biogas production. These algorithms are trained to discern critical process parameters and forecast daily biogas production rates, measured in Liters. For forecasting, 117 days of experimental data were used and ARIMA was identified as the best algorithm to forecast the daily production. This algorithm excelled not only in predicting biogas production but also in forecasting yield, resulting in a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 3.26. Furthermore, a comparison between the forecasted values of both ARIMA and SARIMAX was conducted. The predictive ARIMA model underwent statistical validation with unknown data, resulting in a P-value is >0.05.

kathik-paper1

Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms

This paper focuses on predicting future biogas production using advanced mathematical methods. The researchers used data collected over 117 days of biogas experiments, divided into three periods. They kept track of important factors like methane production, consumed volatile solids, methane percentage in biogas, and initial and final pH levels. To make the predictions more accurate, the researchers addressed missing data and fine-tuned certain parameters using a process called hyperparameter tuning. They wanted to find the best settings for the mathematical models they used, which are called ARIMA and SARIMAX. These models consider patterns and relationships in the data to make predictions. The researchers checked their models’ using measures like AIC and BIC values and examined certain plots to ensure they were getting good results. After applying the models to the data, they were able to predict future biogas production. The accuracy of their predictions was assessed using a metric called RMSE, and they found values of 3.26 for ARIMA and 24.02 for SARIMAX. In simpler terms, these values help us understand how close their predictions were to the actual values. The researchers also did some statistical analysis, and the results showed that both methods (ARIMA and SARIMAX) were equally good at predicting biogas production. Therefore, they concluded that these mathematical models are reliable tools for forecasting biogas production in the future.

karthik-paper2

Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research

The integration of advanced machine learning (ML) algorithms and Industry 4.0 systems within anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities holds significant promise in addressing the challenges associated with process instability and unpredictability in biogas production. The utilization of ML techniques, particularly time series algorithms like ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) and SARIMAX (Seasonal AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average with eXogenous factors), to forecast daily biogas production presents a practical solution to enhance system efficiency and control.

  • Real-time Decision Making
  • Reduced Operational Costs