Łukasz Rymaniak

High initial electrochemical performance does not necessarily translate into durable energy storage. This critical review examines the capabilities and limitations of conventional characterisation techniques in assessing electrode degradation during prolonged operation of batteries and supercapacitors. Carbon-based, non-carbon, and biomass-derived electrode materials are discussed in relation to interfacial ageing, structural damage, heterogeneous ion transport, and loss of electrochemically accessible sites. Particular attention is given to distinguishing directly measured performance deterioration from diagnostic signatures and degradation mechanisms supported by complementary experimental evidence. A qualitative methodological framework is presented to guide the interpretation and integration of electrochemical, structural, morphological, and chemical characterisation results, while considering device-specific charge-storage mechanisms. The importance of monitoring cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge, and electrochemical impedance responses at different stages of electrode ageing is highlighted. Furthermore, the review discusses the limitations of conventional capacity and capacitance retention metrics and emphasises the value of time-resolved measurements and quantitative descriptions of degradation progression. These considerations provide a methodological perspective for improving the reliability of electrode durability assessment and supporting the development of more stable energy-storage materials.

The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary assessment of particulate emissions generated during the cutting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bags using an automatic slitting machine. The investigation focused on the characterization of particle number concentration and size...

With the growing trend toward electrification of urban transportation, electric mopeds are emerging as a key area for implementing alternative energy storage solutions. Among these, sodium-ion cells represent a promising and cost-effective alternative to traditional lithium-based batteries. Environmental regulations, limited lithium resources, and increasing market prices are driving the search for efficient and sustainable energy sources, making sodium-ion technology an attractive candidate. These cells are gaining significant attention from researchers and technologists due to their potential for widespread adoption. Recent studies have focused on the use of metal sulphides as viable anode materials in Na-ion cells, as well as on carbon materials derived from biomaterials for use in electrochemical supercapacitors. Capacitive properties of these materials were evaluated using techniques such as galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The cycling tests demonstrated high reversibility of reactions and strong specific capacitance, indicating good electrochemical performance. GCD analysis of sodium-based systems revealed high initial potentials and efficiency exceeding 90%, suggesting their suitability for long-term applications. Additionally, tests of supercapacitors indicated pseudocapacitive behaviour, further confirming the effectiveness of the studied materials. Overall, the results emphasize the strong potential of sodium-ion technologies for energy storage, particularly in applications requiring durability, such as electric mopeds.

The current policy of the European Union aims to reduce the negative impact of the transport sector on the emission of pollutants generated by combustion engines into the atmosphere. One of the key trends in this expansion is to increase the share of public transport. The article presents a scenario of passenger travel in an urban agglomeration, using a passenger car and a bus. The input data were obtained from tests carried out under real operating conditions using PEMS (Portable Emissions Measurement Systems) equipment. Both objects tested met the same emission standard – Euro 5/V. The obtained pollutant emission values were converted into emissions generated by passengers. The results show that travelling by bus has a much lower impact on the environment, but the journey time is longer and requires the bus schedule to be adjusted to the travel plan.

The article presents a proprietary method for assessing the environmental impact of a hybrid rail vehicle utilizing both electric traction and an internal combustion engine for propulsion. Current efforts aimed at decarbonizing transportation have led to an increase in the production of electric...

Pollutant emission measurements under real operating conditions using Portable Emission Measurement Systems (PEMS) have been conducted for various groups of vehicles and machinery for many years. Since 2014, Real Driving Emissions (RDE) procedures were defined and implemented in homologation testing for Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDVs) and for Passenger Cars (PCs) and Light Duty Vehicles (LDVs) in 2017. In the case of Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM), there is an ongoing effort to conduct real-world emission measurements; however, threshold values for harmful exhaust compounds have not yet been defined. This article presents an analysis of measurement results conducted for a rail bus equipped with two diesel engines. These six-cylinder engines have a displacement of 12.8 dm³ and an effective power output of 257 kW. Measurements were performed on a regular, non-electrified railway line between Krzyż Wielkopolski and Trzcianka, spanning a distance of 36 km. Additionally, the shunting operations of the rail bus at Krzyż Wielkopolski station were analyzed. During the study, emissions of gaseous compounds were measured using the Semtech DS analyzer by Sensors Inc., while particulate mass was measured with an AVL Micro Soot Sensor, and the particle number and size distribution were assessed with the Engine Exhaust Particulate Sizer by TSI. Due to the use of a rail vehicle, the testing procedures were designated as Real Train Emissions (RTE).

This paper investigates the application of high-capacity supercapacitors in railway systems, with a particular focus on their role in energy recovery during braking processes. The study highlights the potential for significant energy savings by capturing and storing energy generated through electrodynamic braking. Experimental measurements conducted on a diesel–electric multiple unit revealed that approximately 28.3% to 30.5% of the energy could be recovered from the traction network, regardless of the type of drive used—whether electric or diesel. This research also explores the integration of starch-based carbon as an electrode material in supercapacitors, offering an innovative, sustainable alternative to traditional graphite or graphene electrodes. The carbon material was obtained through a simple carbonization process, with experimental results demonstrating a material capacity of approximately 130 F/g. To quantify the energy recovery, calculations were made regarding the mass and power requirements of the supercapacitors. For the tested vehicle, it was estimated that around 28.7% of the energy could be recovered during the braking process. To store 15 kWh of energy, the total mass of the capacitors required is approximately 245.1 kg. The study emphasizes the importance of increasing voltage levels in railway systems, which can enhance energy transmission and utilization efficiency. Additionally, the paper discusses the necessity of controlled energy discharge, allowing for the flexible management of energy release to meet the varying power demands of trains. By integrating high-voltage supercapacitors and advanced materials like starch-based carbon, this research paves the way for more sustainable and efficient railway systems, contributing to the industry’s goals of reducing emissions and improving operational performance. The findings underscore the crucial role of these capacitors in modernizing railway infrastructure and promoting environmentally responsible transportation solutions.

The global shift towards sustainable energy solutions has prompted a reevaluation of traditional transportation methods. In this context, the replacement of electric cars with hydrogen-powered vehicles is emerging as a promising and transformative alternative. This publication explores the essence of this transition, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges associated with embracing hydrogen as a fuel source for automobiles. The purpose of this work is to provide a comprehensive comparison of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs), analyzing their respective advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, this work will outline the significant changes occurring within the automotive industry as it transitions towards sustainable mobility solutions.

The article discusses issues related to the behavior of powertrains understood as monuments of engineering art. The theoretical part analyzed the most important issues related to the maintenance and renovation of vehicles, their share in Poland in the age category, as well as the regulations regarding the classification of historic vehicles. The next part of the article presents the renovation process of two powertrain – the K–750 motorcycle and the Volkswagen Type 117 passenger car, along with a short history of their production. Then, recommended procedures for unique objects were discussed in the context of their state of preservation and occurrence based on the authors' experience.

This work investigated the impact of temperature on the diffusion of lithium ions within cells. To achieve this, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis was conducted at various temperatures across three distinct cells. These cells utilized an electrode composed of corn starch meringue and were paired with three different electrolytes. Notably, one electrolyte included an additional 5% of starch. The objective of this study extends beyond merely determining resistance from graphical representations; it also entails performing a kinetic analysis of specific systems, with a particular emphasis on elucidating the significance of the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient as a critical parameter. The cell with 1 M LiPF₆ in the EC/DMC/DEC electrolyte and corn starch-based electrode exhibited the most horizontally oriented Warburg curve, representing the smallest angle.