Digital Commons Network^™

Impact Of Environmental Microparticles On Insect Olfaction, Steve B.S. Baleba, Danube K.N. Wandji, Yves H. Tchiechoua, Komi Mensah Agboka, Iman B. Hassaballa, Victor O. Omondi, Beatrice T. Nganso, Saliou Niassy, Souleymane Diallo, Merid N. Getahun

All Peer-Reviewed Publications

Terrestrial insects underpin key ecosystem services, including pollination, herbivory regulation, decomposition, nutrient cycling, and disease control. These functions depend on chemical communication that guides insects to food, mates, hosts, shelters, and oviposition sites while helping them avoid threats. Environmental microparticles, such as micro- and nanoplastics, tyre wear particles, soot, mineral dust, and agricultural residues, are now widespread across air, soil, vegetation, and indoor environments, exposing insects through contact, deposition, and ingestion. Growing evidence shows that these particles disrupt insect olfaction by adsorbing volatile compounds, blocking antennal sensilla, and interfering with receptor and neuronal processes. These disruptions impair foraging, mating, oviposition, …

Application Of Organic Geochemistry To The Characterization Of Hydrochar And Biochar: Insights Into Composition And Optimization, Michael A. Kruge, Teresa A. Centeno, Alvaro Amado-Fierro, José Manuel González-Lafuente, Rubén Forján, José Luis Gallego

Department of Earth and Environmental Studies Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

Hydrothermal carbonization has garnered significant attention in recent studies due to potential applications of the hydrochar produced, which overlap with those of torrefied biochar, including soil improvement, carbon sequestration, and energy production. However, unlike the relatively uniform properties of biochar, hydrochar characteristics can vary greatly depending on the feedstock used. Advanced characterization techniques are essential to better understand these materials and enhance their practical applications. Research on hydrochar requires a multi-faceted approach, including molecular-level studies, to optimize production processes and identify specific applications.

In this regard, analytical methods commonly used in organic geochemistry could play a crucial role in deepening …

Development Of The Core Lit Apparatus For Seaweed Hatcheries (Clash) Bioreactor Using A Germplasm Approach, Phillip O. Tahimic

Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects

In comparison to the Asian aquaculture industry, the United States has minimal seaweed production. There are several drivers of the limited industry in the US, such as regulatory constraints and limited market demand, but the ability to scale is a considerable barrier to commercialization. One possible solution is the development of land-based systems that integrate bioreactors, which utilize fewer resources and do not wholly rely on an oceanic flow-through system. This study assessed the application of a modular bioreactor, known as Core Lit Apparatus for Seaweed Hatcheries (CLASH), as a nursery system and open-source project designed to expand land-based seaweed …

Land Cover Classification Using Optimized Imagery Resolution And Machine Learning Algorithms For A Long-Term Monitoring And Restoration Project, Jessica R. Suoja

Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects

Ecosystem services and functions are prone to water resource exploitation resulting in cascading effects that include decrease of biodiversity and loss of riparian vegetation, a keystone habitat in desert riparian ecosystems. Mono Lake is a prime example of overexploitation of water resources leading to legal action and eventually a legally mandated long-term monitoring and restoration project. Monitoring and restoration projects can benefit from techniques such as remote sensing and machine learning algorithms to generate accurate land cover classification maps for calculating land cover change over time. However, the spatial resolution of remote sensing imagery and the machine learning algorithms chosen …

Mitochondrial Genome Of The Indo-Pacific Mesophotic Coral Leptoseris Columna (Scleractinia: Agariciidae) Assembled Using Pacbio Long-Read Sequencing, Nomita Rani Adhikary, Daniel J. Barshis, J. Antonio Baeza

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Leptoseris columna, a mesophotic coral species belonging to the family Agariciidae, is distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region. This species is considered as of "Least concern" by the IUCN, yet, faces multiple local and global stressors. To support conservation plans, this study sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome of L. columna. The complete mitochondrial genome of Leptoseris columna was assembled using PacBio long-reads with a coverage of 459× per bp. The AT-rich mitochondrial genome of Leptoseris columna is 18,546 bp long and comprises 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 transfer RNA genes (trnM and trnW), and 2 ribosomal RNA …

Multidimensional Analysis Of Human Outdoor Comfort: Integrating Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (Jitais) In Urban Digital Twins, Binyu Lei, Pengyuan Liu, Kunihiko Fujiwara, Mario Frei, Clayton Miller, Xuan Yun Chua, Filip Biljecki

Research Collection College of Integrative Studies

How can bidirectional information exchange be enhanced in urban digital twins, and support human-centric data and processes? Their key characteristic is the nearly real-time exchange of information, allowing adjustments to physical environments based on simulations and analytics within virtual models. Yet, achieving such interaction remains challenging, particularly regarding device deployment and infrastructure development. Embracing the concept of humans as sensors, this work develops a two-way framework based on the emerging concept of just-in-time adaptive interventions (JITAIs), exploring how urban digital twins can play a role in understanding and enhancing human comfort outdoors. Human comfort outdoors is inherently spatio-temporal and personalised, …

Improving Human Dimensions Of Conservation Planning: Challenges And Opportunities For Sustainable Conservation Outcomes, Vivian Hulugh

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Conservation planning is important to ensure both ecological and social benefits of natural resources, including the maintenance of functional ecosystems and stable wildlife populations as well as the provision of resources that communities rely on. Yet, the integration of the human dimensions of conservation planning remains limited in practice. This thesis examines conservation planning in South Dakota and within Joint Venture (JV) partnerships, using qualitative methods to identify challenges and opportunities for more effective and coordinated planning. In chapter one, I examine how collaboration, public participation, and the use of climate information are integrated conservation planning in South Dakota and …

Multi-Scale Drivers Of Beetle Biodiversity In A Rapidly Urbanizing Region, Alessandra Pandolfi

Graduate Studies Theses and Dissertations 2026

As cities continue to expand, designing urban landscapes that balance ecological resilience with biodiversity conservation has emerged as a pressing challenge. This dissertation examines urban ecosystems as complex and dynamic environments shaping plant and animal communities, with a particular focus on ground-dwelling beetles as ecologically significant indicators of environmental change. Conducted across the Orlando metropolitan area, one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, this dissertation integrates experimental and observational approaches. Specifically, it aims to (1) test sustainable landscaping practices, (2) compare the ecological outcomes of conventional and alternative residential landscape designs, and (3) assess how gradients of urbanization …

Comparative Life Cycle Assessment Of End-Of-Life Crystal Silicon Photovoltaic Panels: Recovery Methods And Extended Life In Agricultural Application, Patima Chaichana, Vacharaporn Soonsin, Nattapong Tuntiwiwattanapun

Applied Environmental Research

The increasing deployment of crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) panels has raised concerns about their waste management. This study evaluated management strategies for discarded c-Si PV panels in Thailand, integrating environmental and economic analyses. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) were applied. The LCA can be divided into 2 parts: (1) secured landfill vs decentralized recycling by existing facilities vs centralized full recovery and (2) reusing PV panels in agricultural applications. The results revealed that secured landfills were the most environmentally burdensome (34.43 Pt), whereas centralized recycling achieved net benefits (-211.93 Pt) through emission reductions and recovery of …

Life Cycle Assessment Of Co2-To-Methanol: Comparative Evaluation Of Direct And Alcohol-Assisted Hydrogenation Routes, Chayet Worathitanon, Naphat Chansonthi, Pawat Pinthong, Kritsana Suwanamad, Viganda Varabuntoonvit

Applied Environmental Research

The increasing severity of global warming, primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions, underscores the urgent need for CO2 reduction and utilization strategies. Converting CO2 into methanol presents a promising approach, as methanol serves both as a fuel and a feedstock in various industries. This study evaluates the life cycle environmental impacts of three methanol production routes: (1) direct CO2 hydrogenation, (2) ethanol-assisted CO2 hydrogenation, and (3) propanol-assisted CO2 hydrogenation. Two energy scenarios are considered: conventional energy and wind power. Process simulations were performed using Aspen Plus V.14, and inventories were analyzed through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using the ReCiPe 2016 …

Unveiling Microplastic Removal And Characteristics In Wastewater From Two Municipal Wastewater Treatment Facilities In Indonesia, Nurul Setiadewi, Prayatni Soewondo, Cynthia Henny

Applied Environmental Research

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered an entrance pathways for microplastic (MP) pollution in aquatic environments. This study reveals the removal and characteristics of MPs in wastewater from two municipal WWTPs in Indonesia. The influent contained 17.1 ± 5.65 particles L-1 (WWTP A) and 15.45 ± 4.31 particles L-1 (WWTP B), whereas the effluent contained 1.41 ± 0.01 and 1.5 ± 0.16 particles L-1. The removal efficiency was 91.75% for WWTP A and 90.32% for WWTP B, with no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). WWTP A employed advanced treatment units, whereas WWTP B used a conventional pond-based system. MPs were …

Assessment Of The Influence Of Human Activities On The Occurrence Of Forest Fires In Thailand Via Multiple Linear Regression (Mlr), Sittipong Ruktamatakul, Jirarat Insuk, Benjaporn Pinwongpet, Sarisa Ruktametakul, Pornpis Yimprayoon

Applied Environmental Research

Forest fires represent one of the most critical environmental challenges in Thailand, with impacts varying depending on forest type, fuel characteristics, terrain conditions, fire intensity, and the frequency of fire occurrence on the same landscape. While forest fires can contribute to ecosystem degradation, biodiversity loss, and the depletion of natural resources, such effects are not uniformly severe across all forest ecosystems. Understanding the human-induced factors contributing to forest fire occurrence is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and promoting sustainable forest management. This study aimed to identify the anthropogenic factors influencing forest fire areas in Thailand via multiple linear regression …

Effect Of Chromium Doping On The Uv- And Sunlight-Driven Photocatalytic Performance Of Srtio3, Ro’Ikhatul Jannah, Dianisa Khoirum Sandi, Fahru Nurosyid, Risa Suryana, Didier Fasquelle, Yofentina Iriani

Applied Environmental Research

Chromium (Cr)-doped strontium titanate (SrTiO3, STO) photocatalysts with compositions of SrTi1-xCrxO3 (x = 0, 5, and 10%) were prepared via the coprecipitation method. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Cr doping on structural, morphological, and optical properties. Furthermore, this work aimed to examine the photocatalytic performance of pure and Cr-doped STO against methylene blue (MB) degradation under ultraviolet (UV) and sunlight exposure. X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of the cubic STO phase and the insertion of the Cr dopant in the STO structures. Furthermore, Cr doping reduced the lattice constant, crystallite size, and average particle size and narrowed …

Fabrication Of Acid-Modified Corn Plant By-Product-Based Biochar For Efficient Adsorption Of Sulfamethoxazole From Aqueous Solutions, Thi An Hang Nguyen, Thi Duyen Le, Thi Hang Bui

Applied Environmental Research

Antibiotic pollution is of great interest owing to growing concerns about antibiotic resistance worldwide. This study aims to fabricate acid-modified biochar (CBM-A) from corn plant byproducts (CRs) for sulfamethoxazole (SMX) adsorption in aqueous solutions. CBM-A was synthesized via pyrolysis at 700 °C and modified with 14% H3PO4. Kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics were investigated in combination with material characterization to elucidate the adsorption behaviors and mechanisms. The results showed that pyrolysis and acid modification effectively enhanced SMX adsorption by CR because of the increased number of binding groups, specific surface area, and porosity. SMX adsorption on CBM-A was optimized at a …

Blue Carbon Stock Assessment And Climate Resilience Potential Of Mangrove Forest In Hung Thang Commune, Vietnam, Hla Phong Ko, Pham Hong Tinh, Nguyen Thuy Duong

Applied Environmental Research

Mangrove forests are vital blue carbon sinks that contribute to climate change mitigation and coastal resilience. This study assessed the carbon stock and spatial‒temporal dynamics of a mangrove forest in Hung Thang commune, Hai Phong Province, Vietnam, via a combination of field measurements, soil organic carbon (SOC) analysis, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI)-based remote sensing models. The results revealed that mangroves in the Hung Thang community store an average of 87.42 tC ha-1, with SOC accounting for approximately 19% of the total carbon. A generalized additive model (GAM) analysis revealed a consistent increase in carbon stocks between 1996 and …

Fabrication Of Urea With Amorphous Silica To Increase Rice Growth In Saline Soils, Thi Ha Chi Nguyen, Thi Hang Thuc Ha, Minh Phuong Nguyen, Ngoc Chuc Pham, Quang Bac Nguyen, Nguyen Huy Tuan Do, Ngoc Nhiem Dao, Trung Kien Nguyen

Applied Environmental Research

In recent decades, the decrease in rice cultivation areas in Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong River Delta, caused by climate change and soil salinization, has posed serious challenges for sustainable development. In addition to irrigation and agronomic practices, fertilizers that sustain rice growth under saline conditions play a crucial role in improving crop productivity. Amorphous silica has been reported to increase plant tolerance to drought, salinity, and heavy metal stress. In this study, nanosilica-coated urea (UCS) fertilizers were synthesized by coating urea granules with 1–5 wt% amorphous silica. The products were characterized by SEM, XRD, FTIR, TG‒DSC, and EDX to …

Heavy Metals And Organic Carbon In Sediments Of Seagrass Sediments Of Trang Province, Thailand, Siriporn Pradit, Pornthep Wirachwong, Thongchai Nitiratsuwan, Sujaree Bureekul, Supraewpan Lohalaksanadech, Thawanrat Kobkeatthawin, Monticha Jirajaras, Prakrit Noppradit, Sanya Sirivithayapakorn

Applied Environmental Research

In this study, the accumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, and Pb) in water, suspended sediments, sediments, and seagrass in Kalase Bay, Trang Province, Thailand, during the 2024 dry season was investigated. These findings indicate that the enrichment factor (EF) for all the metals was less than 1, suggesting that anthropogenic contamination is not a significant concern in the area. The translocation factor (TF) values were less than 1 for all the metals except Cu, whose TF was greater than 1; however, these values were not statistically significant, indicating limited phytoextraction capacity. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) values for …

Spatial Modeling Of Natural Disaster Risk By Integrating Hazard, Vulnerability, And Exposure Factors Using Geospatial Techniques : Evidence From Mueang Tak District, Thailand, Suphatphong Ruthamnong

Applied Environmental Research

This study presents a comprehensive multihazard risk assessment for Mueang Tak District, Thailand, that integrates hazard, vulnerability, and exposure (H-V-E) dimensions. By utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was employed to prioritize critical risk factors. GIS analysis integrated multisource spatial data, including Landsat 9 and Sentinel-2 imagery, CHIRPS precipitation, and SRTM-derived topography, while AHP weights were established on the basis of expert judgment and socioeconomic indices such as the relative wealth index (RWI) and population statistics. The results delineate distinct spatial risk clusters: high landslide potential is concentrated in the steep terrain of …

Carbon Stock Assessment In Sonneratia Apetala Afforested Mangroves : A Case Study From Cox’S Bazar, Bangladesh, Mohammad Ismail, Sayed Abu Johany, Tanmoy Dey, Zakia Sultana Teasa, Trishna Das, Prabal Barua, Tonima Hossain, Sajib Ahmed

Applied Environmental Research

Sonneratia apetala is a key species for mangrove afforestation projects in Bangladesh and plays a crucial role in ecosystem restoration and carbon sequestration. The research on how the total carbon stock (TCS) varies across S. apetala plantations in Cox’s Bazar remains limited. Thus, in this study, the biomass and soil carbon stock were quantified across nine S. apetala afforested sites in Cox’s Bazar to assess spatial variation and influencing factors. The total biomass carbon (TBC) was calculated by summing the aboveground (AGBC) and belowground (BGBC) biomass carbon, while the soil organic carbon stock (SOCS) was determined from the 0–40 cm …

Seasonal Wastewater Monitoring And Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment Of Escherichia Coli In A University Wastewater System, Pathum Thani, Central Thailand, Natsima Tokhun, Natagarn Tongphanpharn, Weerawat Ounsaneha, Montip Jankeaw, Wiriyabhorn Klomsungcharoen, Patsara Wongsudi, Yawanart Ngamnon, Cheerawit Rattanapan, Kwang Mo Yang

Applied Environmental Research

In this study, the physicochemical properties of wastewater were characterized, and a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) of E. coli was conducted in the wastewater treatment system of the Faculty of Science and Technology, Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University, under the Royal Patronage, Pathum Thani, Thailand (VRU-SciTech). This study was conducted because the current water-quality assessment does not include the QMRA or evaluate the occupa-tional and incidental public risk of infection. Over a one-year monitoring period, this study quantified wastewater generation (~6.09 L person-1 day-1; ~3.21 × 103 m3 year-1) and analyzed its physicochemical parameters and E. coli concentrations. High concentrations …

Performance And Mechanisms Of Activated Natural Coagulants For Efficient Microcystis Removal Via Coagulation–Flocculation In Thailand, Apiradee Sukmilin, Peangtawan Phonmat, Ratcha Chaichana

Applied Environmental Research

Thailand produces fruit peels and seeds rich in natural polymers, which can serve as eco-friendly coagulants to control algal blooms. In this study, banana peel (Musa spp.), orange peel (Citrus sinensis), basil seed (Ocimum basilicum) mucilage, and chia seed (Salvia hispanica) mucilage were used. These activated natural coagulants with aluminum were compared with nonactivated and commercial coagulants (ferric sulfate, ferrous sulfate, and polyaluminum chloride) for Microcystis removal. Phytochemical composition analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) analysis were conducted. The results revealed that banana and orange peels contain phenolic compounds, …

Evaluation Of Soil Moisture Content, Ph, And Dominant Microorganisms In Crude Oil–Contaminated Soil Treated With Cow Dung, Indole-3-Acetic Acid (Iaa), And Simulated Microgravity, Amenze Ovenseri, Tawari-Fufeyin P.

Applied Environmental Research

Crude oil negatively affects soil physicochemical properties and microbial activity, thereby hindering plant growth and posing notable environmental and agricultural issues. The combined effects of cow dung, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and simulated microgravity on the recovery of soil degraded by crude oil were explored using Zea mays as the test plant. Soil was contaminated with crude oil at different concentrations (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% v/w), with each concentration comprising eight treatments: cow dung, Zea mays seeds exposed to microgravity, and IAA alone or in combination. Changes in plant height, soil pH, soil moisture content, and soil microbial diversity were …

Evaluating Sediment Control Strategies Using Swat Based Bmp Assessment In A Tropical Highland Watershed, Northern Thailand, ฺBanchongsak Faksomboon, Wilailak Suanmali

Applied Environmental Research

Soil erosion remains a critical environmental challenge in the tropical highland watersheds of Southeast Asia, where steep terrain, intense monsoonal rainfall, and intensive land use interact to accelerate sediment generation and downstream degradation. This study aims to quantify spatial patterns of sediment yield and to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of individual and combined best management practices (BMPs) at both the watershed and subwatershed (SWW) scales using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) in a tropical highland watershed in northern Thailand. Baseline simulations reveal pronounced spatial heterogeneity in erosion severity, with substantial portions of the watershed exhibiting moderate to extreme …

Exploring Consumers’ Intention And Behavior In The Circular Economy : Evidence From Vietnam, Tuan Hoang Nguyen, Vo Minh Thang Phan

Applied Environmental Research

This study aims to address the key gaps in understanding the factors influencing the intention–behavior relationship of consumers in the context of the circular economy (CE). Grounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this research extends the framework by integrating social pressure, attitudes toward green consumption, and the availability of CE products as crucial components that shape intention and behavior. Data were collected from 603 Vietnamese consumers and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results confirm the core TPB constructs, with perceived behavioral control emerging as the most influential factor. Notably, attitude toward green consumption …

Sustainable Approach For The Removal Of Cu(Ii) From Aqueous Solutions Using Lotus Seedpod-Alginate Composite Biosorbents, Lan Tran-Nguyen, Hue Tran Nguyen-Le, Hong T Hi Anh Nguyen, Tran Nguyen-Phuong-Dung, Ly Kim-Phung, Huynh Quoc-Khanh, Nguyen Minh-Nhut, Phuong Lan Tran-Nguyen

Applied Environmental Research

Turning waste or agricultural byproducts into valuable products has recently become a concern of scientists. In this study, the facile and cost-effective synthesis of a biocomposite derived from lotus seedpod (LS) and alginate (AG) was further applied for Cu2+ ion uptake from aqueous solutions. SEM images revealed the layered structures of the composites, which were thin and irregularly stacked sheets of a complex 3D network. The abundant functional groups on the surface of the LS-based material and its negative zeta potential value of -37.50 mV also facilitated efficient Cu2+ removal. Adsorption results revealed a Cu2+ adsorption efficiency (AE) and experimental …

Tree Composition And Carbon Sequestration Potential Of A University Campus In Bangkok, Thailand, Chaiwat Boonpeng, Pawanrat Butrid Butrid, Marisa Pischom, Satatip Noikrad

Applied Environmental Research

Trees play important roles in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption and climate change mitigation. The objective of this study was to assess tree characteristics and carbon sequestration potential at Ramkhamhaeng University (Hua Mak Campus), Bangkok, Thailand. Tree attributes, including species composition, abundance, diameter at breast height (DBH), and tree height, were recorded. Tree biomass, carbon storage, and CO2 sequestration were estimated using appropriate allometric equations. A total of 2,149 trees were recorded in the study area, corresponding to a tree density of 45.8 trees ha-1. The tree community was dominated by the palm family (Arecaceae), while Terminalia ivorensis was the …

Development Of A Deep Neural Network Model To Predict Pm2.5 Concentrations Based On Key Factors Affecting Air Pollution In Bangkok, Natsuda Klinklan, Tanawut Poothong, Nuttiwut Areeratphitak, Viganda Varabuntoonvit

Applied Environmental Research

PM2.5 is a significant air pollution concern in Thailand, particularly in urban areas such as Bangkok, where the 24-hour average concentration frequently exceeds national ambient air quality standards during severe seasonal episodes. Road transportation is the primary source of PM2.5 in Bangkok, accounting for 73% of total emissions, according to the Pollution Control Department. In this study, a predictive modeling framework is developed to investigate the relationship between vehicle count and the mass concentration of PM2.5 from vehicular exhaust emissions. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and recurrent neural networks (RNNs) are employed for vehicle detection and counting, whereas a long short-term …

Weekly Spatiotemporal Dynamics Of Forest Fire Hotspots In Tak Province, Thailand : A Gis-Based Directional Analysis, Suphatphong Ruthamnong

Applied Environmental Research

Forest fires are recurrent dry-season hazards in northern and western Thailand, yet their short-term spatial dynamics remain insufficiently understood. In this study, weekly spatiotemporal dynamics of forest fire hotspots in Tak Province, Thailand, were examined using Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) active-fire data and GIS-based directional analysis. Hotspots from five fire seasons (2021–2025) were grouped into 24 weekly intervals beginning on 1 December. The analysis integrated weekly hotspot counts, forest-type compositions, mean-center trajectories, standard deviational ellipses, temporal changes in topographic characteristics, and fishnet-based hotspot persistence mapping. The results revealed that fire activity was highly concentrated during the middle of …

Effects Of The Psb-To-Ow Ratio And Light Intensity On Biogas Composition During Phototrophic-Assisted Anaerobic Fermentation Of Organic Waste, Kridsana Jirasansawat, Sirilak Prasertkulsak, Nitiwist Teangthai

Applied Environmental Research

The integration of phototrophic processes into anaerobic fermentation offers a promising strategy for improving biogas quality; however, the combined effects of the photosynthetic bacteria-to-organic waste (PSB-to-OW) ratio and light intensity remain unclear. In this study, the photosynthetic bacteria (PSB)-assisted anaerobic fermentation of municipal organic waste under varying PSB-to-OW ratios and light intensities was evaluated. An optimal PSB-to-OW ratio of 1:2 resulted in significantly higher CH4 concentrations and lower CO2 and H2S concentrations than the other tested ratios did (p < 0.05). At this ratio, moderate illumination (2000 lx) resulted in the highest CH4 concentration (68.2 ± 0.3%), compared with 1000 lx (61.5 ± 0.4%) and 4000 lx (63.1 ± 0.5%). Under illumination, the CO2 and H2S concentrations were lower than those under dark conditions, indicating a more favorable biogas composition. Kinetic analysis indicated that CO2 and H2S exhibited apparent first-order behavior under illumination, with the highest rates occurring at 2000 lx (kH2S = 0.093 day-1; kCO2 = 0.059 day-1), suggesting light-dependent transformation processes. Metagenomic analysis revealed a microbial community dominated by sulfide-oxidizing (Chlorobium sp.), photoheterotrophic (Rhodopseudomonas sp.), and syntrophic bacteria, supporting coupled carbon conversion and sulfur transformation. Overall, optimization of the …

Holistic Stormwater Management In The Bound Brook River Basin, New Jersey, Sana Mirza

Theses, Dissertations and Culminating Projects

This dissertation presents a holistic framework for stormwater management in the Bound Brook River Basin, an urban watershed in central New Jersey that faces chronic nutrient enrichment and climate-driven hydrologic changes. The research integrates water-quality trend analysis, hydrologic modeling, and low-impact development (LID) optimization to assess current and projected watershed responses. By combining empirical monitoring data with downscaled climate simulations and spatial prioritization, the study utilizes a holistic approach for stormwater management planning. The first objective was to characterize nutrient dynamics and hydrologic transport pathways for nitrogen, phosphorus, and total suspended solids (TSS) from 2004 to 2019. Using bi-monthly monitoring …