Tag: gas

Maynooth University scientists pioneer breakthrough fingerprint forensic test

A pioneering new test that can recover fingerprints from ammunition casing, once thought nearly impossible, has been developed by scientists at Maynooth University.

Dr Eithne Dempsey, and her recent PhD student Dr Colm McKeever, of Maynooth University’s Department of Chemistry, have developed a unique electrochemical method which can visualise fingerprints on brass casings, even after they have been exposed to the high temperature conditions experienced during gunfire.

For decades, investigators have struggled to recover fingerprints from weapons because any biological trace is usually destroyed by the high temperatures, friction and gas released after a gun is fired. As a result, criminals often abandon their weapons or casings at crime scenes, confident that they leave no fingerprint evidence behind.

“The Holy Grail in forensic investigation has always been retrieving prints from fired ammunition casings,” said Dr Dempsey. “Traditionally, the intense heat of firing destroys any biological residue. However, our technique has been able to reveal fingerprint ridges that would otherwise remain imperceptible.”

The team found they could coat brass casings with a thin layer of specialised materials to make hidden fingerprint ridges visible. Unlike existing methods that need dangerous chemicals or high-powered equipment, the Department of Chemistry, Maynooth University process uses readily available non-toxic polymers and minimal amounts of energy to quicky reveal prints from seemingly blank surfaces.

It works by placing the brass casing of interest in an electrochemical cell containing specific chemical substances. When a small voltage is applied, chemicals in the solution are attracted to the surface, coating the spaces between fingerprint ridges and creating a clear, high contrast image of the print. The fingerprint appears within seconds as if by magic!

“Using the burnt material that remains on the surface of the casing as a stencil, we can deposit specific materials in between the gaps, allowing for the visualisation,” said Dr McKeever.

Tests showed that this technique also worked on samples aged up to 16 months, demonstrating remarkable durability.

The research has significant implications for criminal investigations, where the current assumption is that firing a gun eliminates fingerprint residues on casings.

“Currently, the best case of forensic analysis of ammunition casings is to match it to the gun that fired it,” said Dr McKeever. “But we hope a method like this could match it back to the actual person who loaded the gun.”

The team focused specifically on brass ammunition casings, a substance that has been traditionally resistant to fingerprint detection and is the most common type of material used globally.

The researchers believe that the test for fingerprints on brass they have developed could be adapted for other metallic surfaces, expanding its range of potential forensic applications, from firearm-related crimes to arson.

This technique uses a device called a potentiostat, which controls voltage and can be as portable as a mobile phone, making it possible to create a compact forensic testing kit.

“With this method, we have turned the ammunition casing into an electrode, allowing us to drive chemical reactions at the surface of the casing,” said Dr McKeever.

While promising, the new technology faces rigorous testing and validation before it could potentially be adopted by law enforcement agencies worldwide. The research, funded by Research Ireland and Maynooth University is published in a leading forensic science journal, has significant implications for global policing.

The published findings are available in the science journal, Forensic Chemistry: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468170925000256?via%3Dihub

Introba Opens New Dublin Office, Plans to Create 30 Sustainability-Focused Jobs

Introba, a global building engineering and consulting firm, announced the opening of its new office in Dublin, marking the company’s first location in Ireland. With support from the Irish government through IDA Ireland, Introba plans to create 30 new roles over the next five years, many of which will focus on sustainability and climate-focused engineering services.

The new Dublin-based team will support Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon economy, aligning with national climate goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050. Initially, the team will provide sustainability advisory, mechanical, and electrical engineering services to institutional, cultural, commercial, and science and technology sectors.

“Introba’s expansion into Dublin is a natural extension of our mission to engineer a better, more sustainable world,” said David Glossop, Managing Director for the UK and Europe. “We’re proud to bring our expertise to Ireland and to support ambitious national goals around the built environment and emissions reduction.”

Introba’s Dublin office is led by Adam McLoughlin, Director – Ireland, who brings more than 19 years of international experience across Canada, the UK, and the Middle East. He is joined by John Moore and Padraic Greed, both of whom bring deep experience in building trusted client relationships and leading successful project delivery. Their shared commitment to exceeding expectations will play a key role in establishing Introba’s presence in the Irish market.

The team’s presence in Dublin also strengthens Introba’s relationship with related brand, TYLin, a global, full-service engineering firm specializing in infrastructure solutions such as bridges, highways, transit, and facilities. TYLin is a leading brand within a global alliance of consulting and engineering firms, known for its technical expertise, local knowledge, and forward-looking insights. This connection reinforces Introba’s growing ties across the broader European market.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said: “Congratulations to Introba on the opening of their first Irish office. The office will create 30 new sustainability and climate-focused engineering jobs in Dublin over the coming period, providing great opportunities for our talented engineering graduates. Introba’s focus is very much in line with the Government’s climate agenda, and we remain committed to supporting such initiatives. I wish to welcome the team and thank them for choosing Ireland for this investment. 

 

To learn more about Introba and its career opportunities in Ireland, visit www.introba.com.

Implementing Blockchain technology in the oil and gas industry!

It has already been years since blockchain’s implementation in the oil and gas industry was considered. But, it is not being done because of the drawbacks that the companies see in implementing blockchain. But, for complete clear information, we would like to tell you that the oil and gas industry will not face any drawbacks after successfully implementing the Blockchain technology. The blockchain has been there for a decade and is successfully used in the cryptocurrency industry. Apart from this, many other industries in the world are accepting Blockchain technology with open hands and getting a lot of advantages. For the blockchain, the oil and gas industry is another area where it has to change everything, but the oil and gas industry will have to accept it first. Before you start your Oil trading journey, consider the Pros and Cons Of Oil Trading.

Therefore, significant technological requirements are there in the oil and gas industry. However, one of the significant reasons the oil and gas industry is deprived of this kind of technological development is that the industry is not yet ready. Yes, not everyone but a few players in the industry are not implementing this technology, and therefore, they face the same consequences. But, implementing blockchain will change everything for the oil and gas industry, and therefore, it has to be done at the earliest possible time. Therefore, we will explain to you some of the most important areas where blockchain implementation can take place in the oil and gas industry for information.

Different areas for changes

It is undoubtedly a matter of fact that implementing the new technology will not be easy for the oil and gas industry. It has remained the same for years; therefore, suddenly bringing about the change will create a chaotic environment. Therefore, the implementation should be done very slowly and correctly. With the proper steps, everyone will find it easier to adopt the new technology, but it will take some time. Therefore, the implementation must be done correctly, and the areas where it will work out are given below.

  1. Money management is a particular area where Blockchain technology can do wonders in the oil and gas industry. Yes, money management has been done with the traditional bookkeeping techniques in the oil and gas industry for years. But, apart from that, record keeping can be done with much safety. This is something which is going to allow the companies to focus on many vital areas like increasing trade and increasing profits.
  2. Another very crucial area where the implementation of blockchain into the oil and gas industry can take place is security. Yes, security is crucial for almost every industry, and oil and gas are no different. By implementing blockchain, much more security will be provided to the money and records of the blockchain in the oil and gas industry. When the records are kept safer, the oil and gas industry participants have nothing to worry about. Moreover, the companies raising the capital with the help of blockchain will be able to keep the people’s data safe and secure for a longer duration. It will infuse the trust of the people in those companies, and therefore, it will be easier for them to function.
  3. The help of blockchain will implement simple and sophisticated procedures for everything in oil and gas. Companies facing many challenges with the new things they bring about in the company will do it much more quickly. Yes, you will be surprised to see that the oil and gas industry is no different from every other industry and that complications are part of it. The use of blockchain will eliminate these complications, and therefore, things will be much easier and more sophisticated for every participant. There will be a much easier sophisticated manner in which the task will be accomplished in oil and gas by using blockchain.

More information

Oil and gas are no different from any other industry in the world; therefore, it also requires technological developments from time to time. The oil and gas industry will change completely with the help of blockchain, but this will happen after years. It is because all the companies will take some time to implement this new technology, which is why it will take years to bring about the revolution. But, it will indeed happen, and we will be here to witness it. We will see the oil industry becoming much easier to access for everyone for trading and other purposes in the future.

Blockchain application in midstream oil and gas industry!

A vital industry that has been disrupted using Blockchain technology is the midstream oil and gas industry. You might be surprised to learn that the mystery oil and gas industry deals in the transportation, storage, and wholesale selling of oil and gas. This is done by the companies extracting the crude oil from the mines and are also very much implementing the cryptocurrency technology very well from the oil trading . The cryptocurrency is used in making the transactions for the payments they incur on the cost of making their operations happen. But, it would help if you understood that Blockchain is the more critical technology implemented in the mainstream oil and gas industry.

There are one and multiple departments in the midstream oil and gas industry. If you are familiar with the departments, you would also know about the essential functions they are supposed to go through. To ensure that the functions are performed correctly, the companies must use the best technology required for the same actions. So, they use the Blockchain. It is the best technological development, and it is also helping every other industry in the world. So, the oil and gas industry also wants to have all the advantages of Blockchain technology, and they are doing so by using it in the midstream industry of oil. Today, we will read about a few implications of the Blockchain in the world’s midstream oil and gas industry.

Easy record keeping

The most important action that the midstream oil and gas industry has to be confirmed is to keep records. It is because storage is an integral function of the midstream oil and gas industry, and therefore, they must ensure that record keeping is done correctly. Any error can severely affect the industry’s effectiveness, so it must maintain the records properly. So, using the Blockchain keeps a record safe and secure without manipulation; therefore, it is an integral part of the whole oil and gas industry. Moreover, it supports the ecosystem of transfers as well.

Easy promotions

Promoting some of the companies dealing in crude oil is also crucial. You might think these are the advertisements launched on television, but that is entirely wrong. These companies are extracting crude oil or the clients for governments of different nations. Therefore, you should also consider the fact that these companies have to make sure to reach the government to provide their services. So, make sure and do so with digital tokens. They can reach out to the government by connecting to the network of computers using the Blockchain and, therefore, get promotions.

Faster supply chain

Supply chain management, as well as transfers, are pretty crucial in oil and gas. So, the data must be transferred from one place to another without manipulating Blockchain technology. Blockchain can ensure that you are making the transfer of data without manipulating it and without any edits, making it one of the most important development. So, the Blockchain is used in the midstream oil and gas industry because it requires a faster supply chain.

Transportation tracing

For storing and selling the crude oil to the parties, it is crucial to have some transportation medium driven through highly advanced technology. Moreover, tracing the transportation vessel is also very important in the oil and gas industry, and that is done using Blockchain technology. Real-time data can be tracked using blockchain technology, and apart from that, any data transfer required at the time of transportation can be done using this new technology at a faster speed. So, Blockchain can transform the oil and gas industry far beyond the imagination of anyone, and it can do so with the help of the transportation tracing feature.

Higher technology inclusion

Today, the midstream oil and gas industry is highly indulging in selling crude oil to the governments of different nations and storing it. Therefore, it must ensure that highly advanced technology is used in this action. Technology is required to keep the record in transferring the data from one place to another, and high-technology inclusion can be ensured using Blockchain technology. Blockchain is driven through encrypted data, a futuristic technology used in other things. So, using the Blockchain, it can be ensured that the new and advanced technology is included in the oil and gas industry at the midstream level.

Burren Ecotourism Network secures 12-month sponsorship with Calor Ireland

Calor Ireland has been announced as the main sponsor for the Burren Ecotourism Network as part of a 12-month partnership where Calor will collaborate on a number of key marketing campaigns planned for the coming year including the Burren Food Fayre, an annual food themed event in Lisdoonvarna over the October bank holiday weekend at Halloween.

The Burren Ecotourism Network is made up of 67 businesses in the North Clare region, committed to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark Code of Sustainable practices for tourism. The networks’ philosophy is to work with tourism businesses to help them maintain and protect the environment, while helping them to promote the region as renowned Geopark.

Ciara Toomey, Business Excellence Manager for Sustainability at Calor, was on hand to officially launch the sponsorship with Sharon Malone from The Falls Hotel, a Calor BioLPG customer and member of the Burren Ecotourism Networks. Sharon discussed the sustainability initiatives at the hotel, being part of the Burren Ecotourism Network and the benefits of Calor BioLPG.

“Tourism and hospitality businesses can lead the way in sustainable tourism by switching to lower carbon intensive renewable energy solutions”, that’s the message from members who considerably reduced carbon emissions with Calor BioLPG.

Focusing on the overall membership of the Burren Ecotourism Network, almost 20% are Calor BioLPG customers. By switching to Calor BioLPG, the businesses have made a combined saving of 630 carbon tonnes over the past 12 months – this is the equivalent of meeting the energy needs of an average citizen in Ireland for 83 years.*

 

Jarlath O’Dwyer, CEO of the Burren Ecotourism Network said:

 “We are delighted to welcome Calor Ireland on board as network sponsors for 2022/23. The Burren Ecotourism Network has worked with Calor Ireland for the past four years through the Burren Food Fayre and the Burren Slow Food Festival. We feel that with their commitment to renewable energy through Calor BioLPG and its sustainability strategy Futuria makes them an excellent fit with our ethos of environmental protection.”  

The partnership represents an opportunity to begin a new and exciting chapter, Mr O’Dwyer explains that several members of the network in the accommodation sector, visitor experiences, food production and food service, had already made the switch to Calor BioLPG, and appreciated the value of this partnership.

Introducing renewable gas into the processes at tourism enterprises, allow the companies to deliver on their business sustainability objectives.

Clare based Ciara Toomey, Business Excellence Manager for Sustainability at Calor’s parent company SHV Energy said:

“We are delighted to partner with the Burren Ecotourism Network as main sponsors for the coming year. This is a commitment to support businesses in the region that are determined to make a difference to the local community and the environment. Tourism and hospitality are high energy intensive sectors by nature, as a leading rural energy provider, we are dedicated to help businesses on their sustainability journey by providing lower-carbon alternative solutions. 

Calor believes that small changes, taken together, can make a big difference. As a company we are evolving to provide more sustainable products. We introduced BioLPG in 2018 and our ambition is that all of our energy products will be from renewable sources by our centenary year 2037. The carbon savings of Calor BioLPG customers in the Burren region is an example of the impact that can be achieved, and the journey we are all on together.” 

Calor was the first company on the island to make a certified renewable form of LPG available to homes and businesses in 2018.  Calor Ireland, and its parent company SHV Energy, is partnering with leading, innovative players to help make sustainable fuel advances possible through its Futuria Sustainability Strategy. Calor Ireland’s ambition is that all its energy products will be from renewable sources by its centenary year 2037.

Environmental Advantages of Using LNG Energy

Natural gas has numerous environmental benefits compared to oil, other gases, or coal-fired energy. There is a large reduction in CO2 emissions, but there are also other significant environmental benefits. Locally and globally, massive reductions in NOx and near-complete removal of sulfide, dust, and particles help a better climate.
Utility bidder will provide you with a deep insight into the topmost advantages of using LNG energy. They are as follows:

Efficient Storage Solution

LNG is a naturally occurring gas that has been cooled to roughly -162°C (-260°F), at which point it is liquid. As a result of the cooling, the volume of the gas is reduced by 6000 percent, allowing it to be carried and stored in vacuum insulated tanks on vehicles, containers, and ships. As a result, LNG is a more versatile and storage-friendly alternative to pipeline gas or compressed natural gas (CNG).

Less Risk

The risk of ignition is low in the event of a gas leak. Natural gas must have a gas/air ratio of roughly 5-15 percent to be combustible. If there is less than 5% natural gas in the mix, it is too thin to burn, and if there is more than 15% gas, it is too rich. Natural gas also requires a high-energy spark to ignite. The ignition temperature is 540 degrees Celsius (1004 degrees Fahrenheit).

If there is an LNG leak, the fluid/gas will be heavier than air as long as the temperature is below 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). It will immediately vaporize to a gaseous state, rise to the surface, and combine with air to form a non-flammable combination.

In the incident of a leak or an LNG spill, there may be flammable areas above the leak or spill. Other, heavier gases are more likely to fall and remain close to the ground, where they can create a flammable zone. As a result, it’s critical to keep track of all ignition sources.

Lighter Chemical Composition

Other fuels, such as propane and oil products, are heavier and have more carbon atoms in their molecules. Propane (C3H8), for example, has three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. The more the carbon content of a molecule, the larger the CO2 emissions. Natural gas emits less CO2 than any other hydrocarbon since it is the lightest and simplest hydrocarbon. CO2 emissions will be decreased by about 25% in general.

Non-Toxic Gas

Natural gas is colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. A natural gas leak could still affect the amount of accessible oxygen in a contained space. If someone comes into close touch with the supercooled gas, it could be harmful. Natural gas is generally regarded as a very safe gas, and it is frequently utilized as a residential gas.

Leakage Impacts

With the exception of anything in direct touch with LNG/gas in a supercooled state, a natural gas or LNG leak will have a negligible impact on plant and animal life. Oil spills from shipping, transportation, or oil tanks, on the other hand, have a huge negative environmental impact and can result in significant expenses. Natural gas leaks, however, should be avoided.

 

 

 

Gas Networks Ireland Apprenticeship Programme

Gas Networks Ireland is searching for 14 of the country’s top recruits to join its sought-after and highly regarded Apprenticeship Programme commencing this October.

The four-year salaried programme provides mentor-led apprenticeships working on Ireland’s €2.7bn, 14,617km national gas network, which is considered one of the safest and most modern gas networks in the world.

Successful candidates will help to maintain and operate Ireland’s national gas infrastructure trusted by 710,000 Irish homes and businesses to provide efficient and reliable energy to meet their heating, cooking, transport and manufacturing needs.

They will also play a role in delivering a cleaner energy future for Ireland, as Gas Networks Ireland works to replace natural gas with renewable gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen.

Facilitated in partnership with SOLAS, apprentices receive on-site training with Gas Networks Ireland technical training coaches and attend formal classes in the Educational Training Boards, Meta facility and in appropriate Institutes of Technology.

On completion of the Apprenticeship Programme, successful trainees will be awarded a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft – the national and international requirement for craftsperson status.

Speaking about the programme, Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of People, Nicola McSweeney said:

 “The apprenticeship programme is vitally important for Gas Networks Ireland, as it allows us to attract the best talent and develop our plumbers and engineers of the future. Joining as an apprentice opens up a world of possibilities within the organisation. We are very proud to have a number of employees, who initially joined over 30 years ago as apprentices who are still part of the Gas Networks Ireland team today, including our Gas Technical Competency Training Manager, Brian Flynn, who now leads the apprenticeships training. We have a lot of knowledge to share and I look forward to welcoming our new apprentices.”

For further information and to apply to the Apprenticeship Scheme, please visit; www.gasnetworks.ie/careers. Closing date for applications is Monday 11 April.