Volume 4 Issue 1 (2025): 【In Progress】

Most of internal combustion engines (ICEs) use fossil fuels which are estimated to finish in near future. Researchers are investigating ways to improve existing fuels performance one hand while trying to find alternative fuels to petroleum fuels on the other hand. Mainly studied subject by ICEs is to ensure efficient combustion of fossil fuels and reduce petroleum fuels consumption and emissions. Best practical and economical method to achieve this is using various fuel additives. Boron is considered as a promising additive for fossil fuels. Boron is extremely explosive and flammable when meeting the certain conditions and no gas emission is emitted unlike conventional fuels as a result of this exothermic reaction. Due to these beloved features, studies have been performed since 1950s by boron as an alternative fuel. However, specially designed combustion system and pure oxygen are desired for using pure boron. Boron also seems promising additive for improving combustion of fossil fuels due to its higher energy density. It can increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption and emissions when added to fuels. Advances in nanotechnology facilitated boron addition into fuels and oils. This study investigated effects of boron addition into fuels and oils on combustion, performance and emissions.

Recent breakthroughs in solar cell technology have highlighted transition metal dichalcogenides, particularly tungsten diselenide (WSe₂), as exceptional absorber materials due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties. This study presents an innovative thin-film photovoltaic solar cell featuring Cu₂O-WSe₂-SnS₂ layers. Utilizing WSe₂ as the primary absorber, SnS₂ as the electron transport layer (ETL), and Cu₂O as the hole transport layer (HTL), this structure is engineered to maximize light absorption and carrier separation, enhancing energy efficiency. Key performance parameters, including power conversion efficiency (PCE), fill factor (FF), short-circuit current density (Jsc), and open-circuit voltage (Voc), were thoroughly evaluated. The impressive results—PCE of 25.76%, FF of 83.36%, Voc of 1.29 V, and Jsc of 23.84 mA/cm²—were achieved through meticulous simulation and experimental validation. Investigating defect densities at the SnS₂/WSe₂ and WSe₂/Cu₂O interfaces revealed that minimizing interfacial recombination significantly enhances charge extraction and overall performance. A comparative analysis confirmed SnS₂ as an optimal ETL due to superior electron mobility and minimal recombination. This optimized structure offers excellent efficiency and operational stability, providing crucial insights into the feasibility of WSe₂-based thin-film solar cells. Additionally, it advances our understanding of interfacial engineering in photovoltaics and underscores the role of WSe₂ in conjunction with Cu₂O and SnS₂. These findings contribute to ongoing research on high-efficiency thin-film solar cells, paving the way for further innovations in solar energy conversion technology.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the application of an all-aluminum electrical system in the field of wind power. Driven by the global “dual carbon” goal, the wind power industry is developing rapidly as a key force in clean energy. In view of the lightweight, high strength, corrosion resistance and good conductivity of aluminum, this paper proposes an innovative all-aluminum electrical system solution, which applies aluminum to key components such as generators, cables, transformers and converter busbars to reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and enhance market competitiveness. In this paper, through in-depth research on the mechanical and electrical properties, connection technology and short-circuit tolerance of aluminum materials, the key technologies and innovation points of the core electrical components of the all-aluminum electrical system are comprehensively analyzed, and the product application market is planned in depth. The proposed system shows 30-year lifecycle viability through accelerated aging tests, outperforming conventional materials in total ownership cost metrics. These technical advancements position aluminum electrical systems as transformative solutions for next-generation wind farms, aligning with global decarbonization objectives while addressing industry pain points in cost containment and operational reliability across diverse geographical markets.The results show that the all-aluminum electrical system has established a leading technical position in the wind power industry, and its superior LCOE perfectly meets the needs of various wind power markets, showing broad application potential and prospects.

The carbon footprint of the United States is a complicated issue influenced by different economic sectors. Addressing this issue requires a coordinated effort from multiple stakeholders. A comprehensive study has been conducted on the growing electric vehicle market, specifically light-duty electric vehicles (EVs). This study comprises five chapters comprehensively analyzing the industry, technological advancements, economic considerations, life cycle assessments, and policy landscapes, all supported by extensive research. The study highlights the critical role of light-duty EVs in promoting sustainable mobility and provides valuable insights that can help policymakers, automakers, and energy companies. These insights can drive significant progress in their respective industries and pave the way for an eco-friendly automotive paradigm that caters specifically to light-duty applications. The study's results highlight how different stakeholders must work together to develop policies and infrastructure that encourage using light-duty EVs. The electric car plays an important role in the power sector, particularly in the implementation of smart grids and acting as a smart vehicle via grid connectivity. This article elaborates on the issues posed by electric vehicles, as well as their effects on the energy sector.