The dependence on fossil fuels and the overexploitation of it is a bottlenecked problem of the globe leading to finding alternative renewable resources that may be used as an energy source in place of fossil fuels. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is a technique used to identify potential renewable energy sources. This study investigated the kinetic, thermodynamic parameters, and pyrolysis characteristics of sesame stalk (SS) biomass pyrolysis using thermogravimetric (%) (TG)‐derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) techniques. The pyrolysis was carried out at different heating rates (15, 20, and 25°C/min). The chemical kinetics parameters were determined using isoconversional model‐free methods, including Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall (OFW), and model fitting techniques like the Coats–Redfern (CR) model. The thermodynamic parameters (∆H, ∆G, and ∆S) were calculated using kinetic data. The average activation energy for SS biomass was found to be 77.96 and 84.15 kJ/mole for the KAS and OFW methods, respectively. The activation energy (E) for SS biomass from the integral method varied between 29.61–142.58 kJ/mole for reaction order models and 4.90–122.33 kJ/mole for diffusion models. The distributions of pre‐exponential factor (A) for the reaction order models are virtually normal in the range of 0.2–0.7, upon the Eα values obtained using the OFW and KAS approach. The average value of enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and entropy of SS were also reported. The study suggests that SSs are a potential biomass for sustainable bioenergy production, and kinetic and thermodynamic data are crucial for reactor design for the pyrolysis of SSs.

In construction engineering, there is currently a strong emphasis on finding construction materials, mainly the binder which plays a crucial role, that meet multiple criteria, including sustainability, cost-effectiveness, durability, and reduced environmental impact. However, there is a growing interest in exploring alternatives to traditional binders to address the limitations associated with their production and use. One such alternative is the use of naturally occurring materials like clay. Clay deposits are abundant and widely available, making them a sustainable resource for construction applications. Moreover, clay contains significant amounts of silica and alumina, which are key components for inducing pozzolanic reactions that contribute to the strength and durability of concrete. In recent studies, nanoclays (NCs) have emerged as a promising addition to construction materials as supplementary cementitious materials. These nanoparticles possess unique properties that can enhance the performance of concrete. Nanoclays significantly improve the compressive strength, sustainability, and durability of concrete structures. The high surface area and reactivity of nanoclays facilitate better bonding between cement particles, resulting in enhanced mechanical properties. This chapter aims to discuss the state of the art on performance enhancements of building materials that employ different types of nanoclays in place of conventional binders and the future trends.

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of biomass base ecofriendly biofilm composites reinforced with waste eggshells, utilizing biowaste materials as sources of starch and plasticizer, with eggshells serving as a filler to enhance overall material properties. Reusing biowaste is important in reducing environmental waste and promoting sustainable practices. Findings reveal that increasing eggshell content from 15 to 60% significantly reduces moisture absorption from 18.75 ± 0.02% to 5.31 ± 0.04%, while tensile strength declines from 8.18 ± 0.02 to 5.17 ± 0.02 MPa at constant glycerol levels. In contrast, glycerol enhances moisture retention, increasing absorbance from 18.75 ± 0.02% to 20.15 ± 0.02% as glycerol concentration rises from 5 to 20% in a 15% eggshell composite. The optimal biodegradability was achieved with a plasticizer concentration of 10% and a filler (clay) content of 30%, resulting in a degradation rate of 78.25 ± 0.01%. The eggshell at 30% and glycerol at 5% achieve a degradation rate of 87.31 ± 0.03%. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) reveal that the composites exhibit superior thermal stability, making them suitable for diverse applications. This research highlights the environmental benefits of biowaste materials, trade-offs in material performance, the need for moisture management in packaging, and enhancements from waste starch and plasticizer. These results underscore the potential for creating sustainable and functional composites through utilizing and reusing biowaste materials.