Ni–Co/SiO₂ composite coating was electrodeposited on the steel substrate. The coatings were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The microhardness of the composite coatings was studied by variation of the electroplating parameters, such as the pulse current (PC) and direct current (DC) electrodeposition methods, deposition temperature, electrolyte pH, concentration of surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Zeta potential of SiO₂ particles measurements was performed with various pH, SDS, and CTAB concentrations. The data depict that the hardness of Ni–Co/SiO₂ nanocomposite coatings manufactured by PC electrodeposition increases with the increase of bath temperature, pH, SDS, and CTAB concentration up to 50°C, 4.6, 0.3, and 0.2 g/L, respectively. Beyond mentioned optimum values, the microhardness of nanocomposite coating decreases. Using DC method led to reduce the microhardness. Utilizing SiO₂ microparticles instead of SiO₂ nanoparticles for reinforcing resulted in declining the microhardness. The friction coefficient and wear results demonstrated that using PC method and nanosized particles led to reduce the friction coefficient and increase the resistance to wear. Anodic polarization results illustrated that using SiO₂ nanoparticles and PC method to prepare coating caused corrosion resistance of coating in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution to enhance.

In the realm of renewable energy systems, the effective selection of Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) collectors is important. This study delves into the intricacies of choosing optimal PVT collectors available in the market, emphasizing the utility of Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodologies. PVT collectors are differentiated based on various aspects such as their transparent front cover presence and the medium—liquid or air—used for heat transfer. The study methodologically identifies commercially available PVT collectors and establishes key performance indicators for comparison. Using an 11-point fuzzy scale, a weight matrix is determined. Subsequently, advanced MCDM techniques, including PROMETHEE II, TOPSIS, EDAS, and VIKOR, are employed to rank the alternatives. This research not only provides a systematic approach to PVT collector selection but also extends to a MATLAB-based tool for facilitating the process. The results underscore the value of the proposed methodologies in refining the selection of PVT collectors and their potential adaptability to other applications, such as PVT collector design.

Flexible working models are widely used around the world. Furthermore, several countries are currently transitioning to a 4-day workweek. These working models have significant effects on organizational behavior and the environment. The study investigates the employees' attitudes and behaviors toward flexible working and 4-day workweek and the impact on the environment. The semi-structured interview method was used in the study to determine employee attitudes and behaviors; the carbon footprint calculation method was used to determine the environmental impact of a 4-day workweek. According to the study's findings, it has been discovered that there would be a positive impact on socialization, happiness, stress factor, motivation, personal time, mental health, comfort, work-life balance, time-saving, willingness, positive working environment, personal time, and physical health. Furthermore, a 4-day workweek reduced commuting emissions by 20%, resulting in a 6,07 kg tCO₂e reduction per person. As a result, the study attempted to draw attention holistically to the positive effects of the flexible working model and 4-day workweek. The study is intended to serve as a tool for decision-makers and human resource managers.