KSD 2024 Abstracts
27.11.2024
Session 1. Recent advances and future directions in upper atmosphere and space environment research
1.2. POLAR
Heikki Vanhamäki
Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit, University of Oulu
The POLAR (Polar upper atmosphere and space environment studied with the EISCAT3D radar and other cutting-edge instruments) project will use the novel EISCAT3D ESFRI Landmark radar facility to study the partially ionized polar upper atmosphere together with complementary research instruments, specifically the scanning Fabry Perot interferometer SDI-3D. These instruments allow us to study the effects of solar storms on the ionosphere-thermosphere system and the resulting phenomena such as Joule heating, atmospheric expansion and precipitating auroral particles at high latitudes. The results of the project will help to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather and solar storms on our society and its technological systems. The research is carried out at the Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit in the Ionospheric Physics research group.
1.3. Understanding how aurorae are coupled with the interplanetary magnetic field
Lauri Holappa, Jussi Laitinen and Heikki Vanhamäki
Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit, University of Oulu
Auroral currents are important manifestations of solar wind-magnetosphere interaction, which is strongly controlled by the direction of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). While the dawn-dusk (By) component of the IMF is known to play an important role in this interaction, its effects on geomagnetic activity are usually assumed to be independent of its sign. However, several recent studies have shown evidence that especially the westward auroral electrojet is significantly stronger for By > 0 (By < 0) in Northern Hemisphere winter (summer). The physical mechanism of the By effect is still not fully understood, but significant progress has been achieved in recent years. Here we review how IMF By modulates auroral electrojets, field-aligned currents and ionospheric particle precipitation. These results are based on various datasets, including geomagnetic indices, AMPERE, POES and DMSP satellites. Our results highlight the importance of the IMF By component for space weather and must be taken into account in the future space weather modeling.
1.4. Energetic Particle Influence on polar vortex under Climate Change – EPICC
Timo Asikainen
Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit, University of Oulu
Energetic particle precipitation from space into the atmosphere leads to ozone destruction in the wintertime polar stratosphere. This influences the polar vortex and ground weather variations during winter. These effects also depend on the atmospheric wave activity and meridional circulation, which both are expected to increase due to climate change. In this talk I will shortly introduce our new EPICC project (Energetic Particle Influence on polar vortex under Climate Change) which considers for the first time how the particle precipitation effect on climate changes due to the climate change. These effects will be studied with a combination of past climate observations and numerical climate modeling combined with possible scenarios of future climate change. We will also develop new reconstructions of past and future particle precipitation with deep learning networks applied to historical satellite observations of particles. The results of the project will improve our understanding on joint influence of solar activity and climate change and may help us to better anticipate long-term changes of weather and climate especially in and around the Arctic region.
1.5. Climate Impact of Energetic Particle Precipitation in the Arctic Region (CIEPPAR)
Pekka Verronen and Antti Kero
Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory, University of Oulu
Understanding the solar influence on climate requires consideration of all important forms of solar variability and the relevant atmospheric processes. For example, it is now evident that changes in space weather activity affect atmospheric ozone and that stratospheric ozone is important for tropospheric climate. Although a connection between ozone, polar vortex dynamics, and ground-level regional climate variability has been theorised, there are still many open questions about the initial drivers of the dynamical changes that propagate to the troposphere. Particularly, solar energetic particle precipitation (EPP) is known to modulate ozone but it is not yet considered in most climate models. The objective of the CIEPPAR project is to identify and verify the processes related to the EPP-ozone-climate coupling. To do this, we will use a range of satellite-based and ground-based observations, together with the state-of-the-art whole atmosphere model and advanced analysis methods.
Session 2. Recent advances and future directions in northern biodiversity and ecosystems studies
2.1. Exploring geographical mismatch between supply and demand of ecosystem services using big and open-source data across high latitudes (AccESS)
Terhi Ala-Hulkko, Petteri Kiilunen, Anita Poturalska and Janne Alahuhta
Geography Research Unit, University of Oulu
Keywords: Ecosystem services, GIS, temporal patterns, supply and demand balance, accessibility
The negative impacts of global change on ecosystem properties and biodiversity have raised concerns about the ability of ecosystems to support human well-being. This has led to the development of the concept of ecosystem services (ES) to address these challenges (MA, 2005). In recent decades, ecosystems have changed more rapidly than ever before, directly impacting ES, which have declined globally in both quantity and quality. This degradation of ecosystems and ES has also raised concerns about the future of human well-being. To understand how ecosystem changes affect people, it is essential to identify, measure, and map ecosystem functions and their relationship to human activities. We also need to understand the balance between the supply and demand of ES to assess how this balance has shifted over time. Mapping ES helps visualize complex phenomena, quantify the demand and supply of services, and evaluate the sustainable use of ecosystems (Burkhard & Maes, 2017; IPBES, 2019). In this project, we have 1) studied changes in northern ecosystems using unique data on vascular plant communities. This monitoring provided valuable information on the functioning and current state of these ecosystems, allowing a more comprehensive assessment of changes over the last 50 years in sensitive northern regions. Understanding the current state of ecosystems is crucial because changes directly affect the services they provide, such as pollination and food production, which are vital to people and society. In addition, we have 2) investigated the balance and temporal variation in the supply and demand of ES associated with different ecosystems (e.g., forests and agriculture) globally, in Europe, and in urban areas. The aim was to provide valuable information on the current state of ES to support policymaking. This is a timely topic in response to international and national objectives to map and understand the status and trends of ES. We also 3) explored the cultural services that people consider important in urban areas and how accessible they are through perceived accessibility and sustainable transport modes. We used participatory GIS surveys (PPGIS) and mobile phone data on people’s movements between urban areas. This information is crucial for urban planning and understanding the role ecosystems play in daily urban life.
References:
Burkhard, B. & Maes, J. (2017). Mapping ecosystem services, Pensoft Publishers.
IPBES (2019): Global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services. E. S. Brondizio, J. Settele, S. Díaz, & H. T. Ngo (editors). IPBES secretariat, Bonn, Germany. 1148 s. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3831673
MA (2005). Ecosystems and human well-being: Health synthesis, A report of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment.
2.3. Geodiversity for mapping and conserving biodiversity in the changing Arctic
(GeoBioArctic)
Jan Hjort and Tuija Maliniemi
Geography Research Unit, University of Oulu
Biodiversity loss is one of the biggest challenges of our time. Especially, sensitive tundra ecosystems have shown to be vulnerable to climate warming. The diversity of abiotic nature or geodiversity has been put forward as a novel approach to explore, understand, and conserve biodiversity. In this project, the objective is to improve the understanding of geodiversity in explaining and predicting patterns of Arctic biodiversity. Moreover, the aim is to identify the potential of geodiversity in sustaining biodiversity under changing environmental conditions. The project focuses on sensitive tundra environments in northern Fennoscandia. In our ground-breaking approach, we apply multidisciplinary complementary research methodologies based on mostly existing species data, novel geodiversity measures and geospatial data-based statistical analyses. The results have theoretical and applied implications for both biosciences and geosciences, as well as considerable societal significance. We improve the understanding of geodiversity in explaining and predicting Arctic biodiversity. Moreover, we showcase the potential of geodiversity information in sustaining Arctic biodiversity under rapid environmental change. The knowledge and data produced in the project are highly relevant for conservation planners and policymakers. The project is based on fruitful, long-term collaboration between the participating institutes and researchers, and this guarantees a successful outcome for the project.
2.4. Global change impacts on northern animal communities: from mechanisms to ecosystem level implications
Sami Kivelä, Tuomas Kankaanpää and Mahtab Yazdanian
Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu
Global environmental change has led to changes in abundances, distributions and phenologies of many species. The effects of these changes on communities, biotic interactions, and eventually on ecosystems remain poorly understood for many areas and taxa. Focusing on Boreal Forest habitats, we investigated moth-bird predator-prey dynamics and mechanisms at several levels: (1) How moth abundances have changed in Finland depending on functional traits (i.e., traits determining the ecological roles) of the moth species; (2) How the abundances of different functional groups of birds are affected by the abundance of moth prey; (3) How the availability of moth prey affects abundances of specific bird species, such as forest tits and grouse. In these studies, we combined several spatially extensive long term monitoring datasets as input to complex joint dynamic species distribution models, which revealed that moth abundances measured in biomass are not in decline for most moth groups in Finland, and that fluctuations in moth availability do not dramatically affect the population dynamics of the bird species assessed, except in the North-Boreal zone, where bird populations appear to be more food limited.
In addition to the studies looking for associations between population dynamics of predators and prey, we (4) sought to uncover the mechanisms that produce phenological change in moth life cycles. To develop and parameterise a general mathematical model of growth of moth caterpillars, we measured temperature dependency of mass accumulation and moulting for 22 moth and butterfly species belonging to eight families. Based on the parameterisation of the model with the collected growth trajectory data, (5) the model can be used for simulating larval growth trajectories under different temperatures. Such simulations accurately predict thermal sensitivity of larval development times, which can be used to forecast caterpillar biomass availability peaks in specific thermal conditions and future climates.
In summary, our results fill in missing abundance trends for Northern Europe and shed light on the divers affecting bird populations there. We provide tools for better quantification of phenological shifts and ways to bridge gaps between independent biodiversity monitoring datasets.
2.5. Fall and rise of endangered species: Detection of genomic and population ecological signals of decreasing and increasing populations
Alina K. Niskanen, Ekaterina Karabanina, Diego Rondon, Suvi Ponnikas, Jouni Aspi, Mikko Sillanpää and Laura Kvist
Ecology and Gentics Research Unit and Mathematical Sciences Research Unit, University of Oulu
Many species or populations of species face extinction caused by human action either directly or indirectly. Wolf (Canis lupus), wolverine (Gulo gulo) and golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) have gone through different types of bottlenecks as a result of strong persecution during the last centuries in Finland and elsewhere. Especially the breeding populations of wolf and wolverine were extirpated from Finland. All these species still face threats from poaching and, to some extent, also from legal culling. Here we combined genomic analyses of historical and modern samples with ecological information in population modelling to examine the interplay of population bottlenecks, genomic erosion, inbreeding and vital rates together with population structure and gene flow for understanding roles of these processes in development of populations.
We used genetic data of modern and historical samples from golden eagles and wolves to study how the past bottlenecks have affected their genetic diversity. Wolverine was lacking an important genomic resource, the reference genome, which we are in the process of producing. In addition, we used population ecological data of modern follow-ups to examine how the vital rates are affected by the bottlenecks and if the vital rates and environmental variables, inbreeding and decrease of genomic diversity are connected. We also developed a new method for predicting population extinction.
We found that the population bottleneck of the Finnish golden eagles is visible in the genomic data, but they still have similar levels of genetic diversity compared to the neighbouring populations. Unlike commonly thought, golden eagles change a breeding site and a partner relatively frequently, especially after an unsuccessful breeding event. To predict suitable breeding sites, we developed a population model based on citizen science observations to predict the nest sites and the population size of golden eagle. Similarly to golden eagles, the sharp population size decrease was visible also in the grey wolf genomes. We found that inbreeding has increased in the Finnish wolf population after the population re-established. We also found that inbreeding has a negative effect on the probability of breeding. However, according to our simulation study, predicting the fate of a population based on the level of inbreeding remains challenging. In conclusion, we found negative genomic signals of the bottleneck especially in wolves, which have gone through the most severe population bottleneck of our study species.
2.6. Developing a Genomic Blueprint for a Bio-literate Future
Marko Mutanen
Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu
Despite over 260 years of taxonomic research, only a small fraction of species have been scientifically named and described, rendering humans largely illiterate with respect to the biological diversity that surrounds us. Since past research has mostly focused on relatively species-poor groups of organisms, the remaining components of biodiversity, often referred to as ‘dark taxa’, are more difficult to elucidate. In the midst of the biodiversity crisis and high extinction rates, we must accelerate the taxonomic workflow in a radical way. An accurate taxonomic framework is a prerequisite for efficient biomonitoring and clarification of species interconnections, i.e. food webs.
As all taxonomically relevant information is encoded in an organism’s DNA, taxonomy based on genomics would provide much better means for species delimitation and would enable a rapid, automatable reference system for work done by other researchers. By taking advantage of rapid progress in high-throughput sequencing technologies, this proposed project focuses on finding answers to questions that must be solved to understand species diversity globally. We will use vastly diverse Braconidae wasps, Cecidomyiidae midges and sawflies as models, all representing important components of ecosystems in the Arctic.
We will first focus on re-configurating the so-called ‘minimalistic taxonomic approach’ to become more scientifically rigorous and demonstrate that the approach can revolutionize taxonomy by speeding up species descriptions in an unprecedented manner. Secondly, we will use genomics and ‘museomics’ approaches to understand the species diversity of a group which taxonomy has remained unresolved despite many attempts. Thirdly, we will investigate and demonstrate the benefits of genomics tools in clarifying species interconnections.
Our international team proposes innovative solutions that will have implications for all types of biodiversity research. Since the proposed approaches are novel, the research will be truly groundbreaking and will establish a model for future research. Our project has the potential to generate scientific breakthroughs in two areas. First, we will show that understanding species diversity of ‘dark’, massively diverse groups is possible with the adoption of high-throughput genomic tools. Second, we will demonstrate how efficient state-of-the-art genomics tools provide efficient means to elucidate species interconnections, such as host-parasitoid relationships.
2.7. HYPERISK – Geospatial data-based modelling for improved permafrost risk assessments
Olli Karjalainen, Eirini Makopoulou and Jan Hjort
Geography Research Unit, University of Oulu
Permafrost is warming on a global scale. This process is projected to continue in increasingly warm climates across the Arctic areas. The geographical patterns and timing of permafrost thaw remain a challenging issue to tackle in remote and data sparse northern regions. The need for spatial analyses of the current and future permafrost conditions is urgent, as northern landscapes are changing at an unseen pace.
Spatial statistical modelling approach can produce valuable insights with cost-effective and scalable methodology. Overall aim of the HYPERISK project was to assess the impacts of climate change on permafrost and how thaw of permafrost affects environment and human activities in the Arctic. Specific aims included producing high-resolution permafrost projections using a hybrid modelling approach, identifying critical permafrost hazards and hazard areas, and quantifying infrastructure risks in the permafrost regions.
Our findings suggest that we are heading towards an Arctic with less permafrost. Based on the developed hybrid modelling approach, increases in the summer thaw depth of permafrost-affected terrain are not limited to the marginal permafrost regions but also occur in cold permafrost at high latitudes. Projected permafrost thaw is projected to cause system-wide geomorphological, hydrological and ecological alterations, which already also affect human activities in the Arctic. In HYPERISK, we reviewed the scale of the projected risks to infrastructure and explored methods to mitigate adverse consequences.
We also produced spatial predictions on the mass movement susceptibility on permafrost-affected slopes across the Arctic and pinpointed sections of linear infrastructure (roads and pipelines) in northwestern Canada and Alaska that may be at risk due to rapid landslides. Permafrost thaw may also affect global greenhouse gas forcing due to the release of organic matter from thawing soils. We presented that there is a high potential for large-scale degradation of palsa mires across the Arctic area. Moreover, we estimated that at a local scale in Finnish Lapland, up to two thirds of previous palsa area has degraded since the 1960s. Based on all evidence, there is no reverting this trend in the foreseeable future.
Future efforts should continue addressing the rapid changes in the cryosphere on both global and local scales and quantify how nature’s diversity is affected by the complex feedback effects.
2.10. DigiPeat – Digital high-resolution verification tools for documenting peatland restoration and changes
Hannu Marttila and Aleksi Räsänen
Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Unit and Feography Research Unit, University of Oulu
DigiPeat develops digital tools for peatland restoration monitoring that will support digital and green transition in restoration actions. By digitalizing processes and changes spatially and temporally, we assess and project the effects of peatland restoration on topography, vegetation, hydrology, and biogeochemistry. The project participates in documenting the first national intensive peatland restoration monitoring site with high spatio-temporal resolution. Digitalization will increase the acceptability and efficiency of peatland restoration and help to improve the peatland restoration success estimates. Developed models, proof of concept, and source codes will be published and shared with a permissive license to further develop the ‘digital twins’.
POSTERS
A Combined Effect of the Earth's Magnetic Dipole Tilt and IMF By in Controlling Auroral Electron Precipitation
Jussi Laitinen, Lauri Holappa and Heikki Vanhamäki
Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit, University of Oulu
Auroral particle precipitation (<30 keV) is usually assumed to be equally strong for both signs of the By component of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). However, recent statistical studies have showed that geomagnetic activity is significantly modulated by the signs and amplitudes of IMF By and the Earth's dipole tilt angle Ψ. Here we quantify this By dependence for auroral electron precipitation for the first time. Furthermore, we make a case study on a sequence of high-speed stream (HSS) driven events of auroral and medium energy (>30 keV) particle precipitation. We show that when HSSs are comparable in terms of IMF and solar wind parameters, HSSs with opposite signs of By and Ψ can lead to systematically stronger particle precipitation in individual events. We also perform a superposed epoch analysis of 485 HSSs giving further evidence that the By-effect is especially significant during HSSs. This is likely due to the persistent IMF By polarity during HSSs. We show evidence that the By dependence in particle precipitation is caused by a similar By dependence in substorm occurrence.
Interacting processes in Arctic reindeer systems experiencing rapid climate change
Jeff Welker1,2,3, Jouko Kumpula4, Maria Vaisanen1, Riku Paavola5, Inkeri Markkula1 Noora Kantola1, Tamara Hiltunen1, Clement Masse1, Mirella Karppinen
1Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, 2Biological Sciences Department, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3University of the Arctic (UArctic), 4Finnish Institute of Natural Resources (LUKE) and 5Oulanka Research Station
Reindeer and caribou provide key ecosystem services in the north. These ungulates can modify ecosystem carbon sequestration, they serve as a social and economic foundation for indigenous and rural communities, and these ungulate are key prey species for predators such as wolverines, brown bears and wolves. Today, rapid climate changes are creating a New Arctic with no weather and climate analogs for 1000’s of years which in turn are alter almost all facets of the Arctic System. This New Arctic includes shifts in snow fall patterns as well as more frequent extreme snow events, fueled by an ice-free Barents and Beaufort Seas and more frequent extreme events including excessive summer heat and droughts, rain on snow events as well as major changes in the vegetative base of theses food webs.
Today, two of the most widespread and enigmatic biotic changes are the declines in the populations of caribou/reindeer despite the North becoming greener and more productive. This observation has set the stage for a complete rethinking of abiotic-biotic & biotic-biotic (ie. predatory-prey) interactions and climate feedbacks as it relates to reindeer systems; and how stakeholders, such as Sami communities and reindeer herders adapt and cope with these changes.
This project aims to create a revolutionary framework for understanding reindeer/caribou systems that considers environment-social interactions, feedbacks and predatory-prey dynamics. We will use experts from different disciplines and members of the stakeholder community that in collaboration share, discover, and co-produce new knowledge, education and management options. This research consists of three lines. First, we will study annual ecosystem CO2 balance and thus climate feedbacks in northern Finland manipulating reindeer grazing in combination with future snow depth scenarios. Second, we will quantify collared (GPS) reindeer grazing patterns in Finnish Lapland, determine their seasonal diets and quantify how carcass weights differ depending on their diets and how that varies among areas and individuals. Third, we will use stakeholder workshops and interviews to integrate traditional knowledge with scientific discoveries to co-produce new insights and identify key vulnerabilities, adaptive strategies, and management options. And, Fourth, we will explore the dietary patterns of wolverines in the past and today and the perspectives of hoarders on the role of these predators in sustainable reindeer production. Our data will include present and future greenhouse gas forcing estimates (i.e. annual CO2 budgets), seasonal habitat use and food selection by reindeer in response to varying weather, and how reindeer behavior relates to meat production. The project will produce operational models, education, know-how, network and written products focused on the sustainability and climate-smart means of adaptation. Our project will provide a model for addressing some of the most complex issues in the North today. We expect to identify mechanisms and processes of changing reindeer systems and how these changes feedback to climate forcing and what practices stakeholders could use to facilitate informed and sustainable land use management in the coming decades.
The potential of non-native pink salmon to boost Arctic ecosystems - a threat or an opportunity? Aino Erkinaro1 and Kaisa-Leena Huttunen1,2
1 Ecology and Genetics Research Unit, University of Oulu, Finland , 2 Nature Solutions Unit, Finnish Environment Institute, Finland
Pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), an alien species in northern Europe, has shown dramatic growth in numbers and distribution from 1950s to 2020s. The lifecycle of anadromous pink salmon differs from our native salmonids lasting only 2-years and ending in mass death of the whole cohort soon after spawning. Increased nutrient concentrations and other resources related to pink salmon and its carcasses are expected to have various direct and indirect ecological effects in its non-native distribution area. In 2023 we followed pink salmon carcass decomposition and nutrient release for over two months in an experimental set-up mimicking hotspots of carcass accumulation sites. Pink salmon carcasses on shore disappeared within days, while remains of carcasses in streams were observed even after 2 months since the beginning of the experiment. Nutrients were released continuously throughout the whole experiment period. Increased concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus compared to control plots were observed especially in hyporheic zone, i.e., in “sediment” water. In the free-flowing water the differences were less dramatic. Most of the released nitrogen was ammonium, which is considered an effective form of nitrogen for the primary producers. Our previous field experiment in 2022 showed that productivity of epilithic algae in the northernmost rivers is primarily limited by nitrogen availability. Thus, in the future years we can expect to see increasing epilithic algal productivity due to pink salmon carcass decomposition assuming that pink salmon mass occurrences continue and that large amounts of carcasses remain in rivers instead of flushing to the sea. Further research on the spatial and temporal scale of nutrient release from pink salmon carcasses and the possibly cascading ecological effects will be produced within this University of Oulu Emerging Project (2023-2026) and in the Academy Research Fellowship project “Greener Rivers in Warming Arctic” (2023-2027).
-----
28.11.2024
Session 3. Recent advances and future directions in catalysis and clean energy studies
3.3. Towards Metal-Free Catalysis: CO2 and H2 Activation by T-shaped Metal Mimics
Daniela I. Bezuidenhout and Aino J. Karhu
Environmental and Chemical Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu
This research project explores ways to harness the unmapped reactivity of the late main group elements, bismuth and tellurium. The aim is to exploit this untapped potential for homogeneous catalysis while promoting the goal of a carbon-free society and the sustainable use of natural resources. The platinum group metals (PGMs), which successfully mediate redox catalytic cycles to prepare functional organic compounds selectively and in high yields, are the cornerstone of homogeneous catalysis. However, PGMs have sustainability limitations, leading to the emergent challenge of using main group elements as cheaper, more sustainable alternatives.
The difference between the p- and d-block elements, lies in their frontier orbitals where the larger energy gap between the frontier s/p-orbitals of the main group elements, precludes the ambiphilicity (dual electron-donor and acceptor ability) demonstrated by the partially occupied d-orbitals of the transition metals. The use of a constraining ligand scaffold that can anchor a low-valent p-block element in a geometrically constrained environment, has been a key strategy to convert the main group elements to transition metal mimics. Geometric perturbation leads to a decrease in the HOMO-LUMO energy gap, with resultant single site ambiphilicity. This strategy has been very successfully employed for the group 13, 14 and the lighter group 15 elements, but is virtually uncharted territory for the heavy group 15 (bismuth) and group 16 (tellurium) elements.
This project aims to reveal the ambiphilic nature of bismuth and tellurium; and how it can be harnessed in the (catalytic) transformation of small molecules of environmental consequence. The plan includes the synthesis of novel organobismuth(I/III), and organotellurium(I) compounds coordinated by a pincer ligand. The pincer ligands feature a central carbazolide with flanking mesoionic carbenes as the ligating donor groups, to facilitate the geometric restriction of the reactive main group compounds. The anticipated reactivity to be achieved will be tested in the activation of CO2 and H2 towards catalytic CO2 reduction (hydrosilylation) and hydrogenation reactions for the synthesis of functional organic compounds that can further serve as building blocks for fine chemicals. This research will provide new information about the fundamental reactivity of Bi and Te, to push the boundaries of pnictogen and chalcogen chemistry in the arena of metal-free catalysis.
3.4. Energy- and cost-efficient production of solar energy under arctic environmental conditions
Vinay Shekar, Antonio Calò and Eva Pongrácz
Water Energy and Environmental Research Unit, University of Oulu
The European Union's solar energy strategy articulates an essential vision for the future by mandating all new residential and commercial buildings to be "solar-ready" by 2029. While existing simulations and theoretical models often provide ideal recommendations for photovoltaic panel placement, specifically regarding optimal azimuth angles and tilt configurations, they typically neglect the distinctive and complex challenges of Arctic regions, which are characterised by prolonged periods of snow cover, extreme sub-zero temperatures, and significant seasonal fluctuations in solar irradiation, all of which can significantly affect solar energy systems' performance and efficiency.
This research employs a multifaceted approach to address these challenges, utilising empirical data collected from photovoltaic installations at the University of Oulu. By incorporating real-world observations with simulation-based economic analyses, this study investigates the obstacles and potential benefits of deploying solar photovoltaic systems in Arctic and Subarctic climates, which are often overlooked in traditional analyses. In this investigation, multi-year studies using typical and innovative infrastructures provide invaluable empirical evidence. These studies track and assess the performance of solar photovoltaic systems under the climatic conditions found in these areas, enabling a comprehensive understanding of systems operating in extreme environments. Among the key themes of this research are the influences of accumulated snow on energy capture, variations in sunlight throughout different seasons, the role of tilt angle optimisation for maximising energy efficiency, and the significance of selecting appropriate azimuth orientations relative to the sun's path. Furthermore, the analysis thoroughly evaluates the economic viability of these solar photovoltaic systems. Utilising key metrics such as Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), which represents the average cost per unit of electricity generated over the system's lifetime; Net Present Value (NPV), which assesses the profitability of the investment; and discounted payback periods which calculate the time required to recover the initial investment in solar technologies, the research presents a robust financial outlook for implementing photovoltaic systems in these challenging climates.
The insights derived from this research aim to generate actionable recommendations that can significantly influence various sectors. These include design guidelines for rooftop configurations that optimise energy production, strategic policy implementations that encourage further investment in renewable technologies, municipal zoning regulations that accommodate solar installations, and developing energy community strategies that promote collective engagement in renewable energy use.
3.5. Continuously observed quantum matter with superconducting circuits
Taneli Tolppanen
Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit, University of Oulu
Quantum computing offers new methods to solve old problems, with finding potential applications from simulating the structure of batteries and carbon capture materials, to optimizing electrical grids and even machine learning. Today there are several physical platforms for developing quantum computers, from which superconducting circuits are gaining attraction. In superconducting quantum computing, the transmon device is used to realize the quantum mechanical bit, the qubit. Transmon qubits have found their way into quantum computers produced by e.g. IBM, Google and IQM. Quantum states of the qubits are used to store data, allowing us to take advantage of quantum mechanical phenomena for information processing.
In our work we have been studying transmon device arrays analytically and numerically to better understand dynamics of quantum processes under realistic conditions. Numerical simulation of quantum mechanical systems suffers from exponential growth of variables. To simulate transmon arrays, specific numerical tools and optimizations were used. These include the Krylov subspace method for efficiently calculating the matrix exponential required for the time evolution and taking advantage of the underlying physics of transmon arrays.
We used these numerical tools to study the measurement-induced-phase-transition, where an array of interacting transmons are randomly measured, and an entanglement transition is observed. We observed that by considering measurements followed by conditional feedback operations, statistics of population numbers becomes an useful observable to study entanglement phases. Experimentally, population numbers of the array are easier to measure than entanglement.
Session 4. Recent advances and future directions in carbon-neutral steelmaking and carbon-capturing materials
4.1. CLEAN2STEEL
Aidin Heidari
Process Metallurgy Research Unit, University of Oulu
Global climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions is one of the biggest challenges in contemporary society. The Kvantum project “Towards carbon-neutral steelmaking through hydrogen-reduction and application of clean steels (Clean2Steel)” investigated new concepts to reduce emissions of the steel production, which is responsible for 7% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions, as well as new material solutions to reduce emissions during steel usage. According to its title, the project, carried out in the Process Metallurgy Research Unit, was divided into two subareas: hydrogen reduction of ironmaking raw materials and steel cleanliness.
The goal of the first subarea was to explore alternative methods for replacing fossil-based carbon with hydrogen as a reducing agent in ironmaking, the primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in steel production. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the hydrogen reduction process, this project examined the reduction behavior of pellets on both surface and bulk scales. Additionally, the study investigated the mass and energy balance of the hydrogen reduction process in a shaft furnace, as well as the impact of hydrogen injection into a blast furnace. The research placed particular emphasis on underexplored areas, such as the effects of water vapor and the varying reduction behaviors of different pellet types. Findings from this work have been presented at prominent conferences and published in prestigious journals.
The aim of the second subarea was to enable high steel cleanliness to produce advanced high-strength steels which can be used to design lightweight structures and thereby decrease the fuel consumption and lifecycle CO2 emissions. In the project, national and international research collaboration was realized, published in journal articles. The result highlights present unique in-situ high-temperature experiments to understand the stability of non-metallic inclusions in steels at elevated temperatures, and a method to assess the distribution of alloying elements between the steel matrix and non-metallic inclusions. The results can be utilized to estimate the high-temperature inclusion stability, affecting the properties of ultrahigh-strength steels.
4.2. Green4Gtech
Sumit Ghosh and Jukka Kömi
Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu
The Kvantum project “Green Transition through 4th Generation steels Innovations and clean technology (Green4Gtech)” focuses on optimizing steel nanostructures to create a new fourth generation (4G) generation of steels with exceptional mechanical properties, including superior tensile strength, ductility, and unprecedented fracture toughness. By employing advanced scientific methods, the project not only pushes the boundaries of metallurgy but also addresses pressing industry and environmental challenges. The central goal of the project is to deepen the understanding of the metallurgy underpinning ultra-high-strength steels, particularly how their nanostructure can be engineered to achieve optimal performance. The research aims to produce steels that exhibit a combination of high strength and toughness, addressing limitations in current second- and third-generation special steels. The breakthrough nanostructures developed in this project will enable significant weight reductions in steel-based structures, offering a competitive advantage to the Finnish steel industry and positioning it as a global leader in advanced steel technology.
To ensure practical impact, the project emphasizes the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly manufacturing processes for these new steels. By leveraging techniques compatible with existing production lines, the need for extensive capital investment is minimized, making it feasible for widespread industrial adoption. This compatibility with current infrastructure also aligns with sustainability goals, supporting the Green Transition through innovations in clean technology and environmentally responsible manufacturing.
The outcomes of this project are expected to revolutionize the application of steels in critical industries such as energy, construction, defence, and automotive. In these sectors, the proposed steels will replace existing materials, offering enhanced performance, reduced material consumption, and lighter structural designs. The environmental benefits of this transition are twofold: the reduction in steel use lowers resource consumption, while eco-friendly production techniques significantly decrease the carbon footprint of steel manufacturing.
In summary, this project promises to deliver transformative advancements in ultra-high-strength steels, combining groundbreaking scientific insights with practical, scalable manufacturing solutions. The resulting new fourth generation of steels will not only bring economic and environmental benefits but also establish Finland as a leader in sustainable, high-performance steel innovation.
4.3. CARBO-CEM Project (2021-2024)
Mahtab Akbarzadeh Khoei
Fiber and Particle Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu
Cement significantly contributes to global CO2 emissions, accounting for 5-8% of human-made emissions. Researchers are exploring carbonated magnesium cements as a carbon-negative alternative. The global reserves of suitable magnesium silicate minerals are ample enough to capture all human-made CO2 emissions for the foreseeable future. However, the high energy required to produce this binder from magnesium silicates is a major challenge. Therefore, our main goal is to investigate the feasibility of using magnesium silicate feedstocks for magnesium carbonate cements through a one-step direct carbonation process, using commercially viable parameters.
CARBO-CEM aims to enhance the reaction process of magnesium carbonate cement by integrating several innovative approaches. These include using organic ligands to control dissolution, diffusion, and precipitation reactions, as well as precursor pre-treatments and seeding agents. The research is organized around three scientific objectives: 1) destabilizing the mineral structure using energy-efficient methods, 2) lowering transition state energies in carbonation reactions through solution modifications, and 3) characterizing and modeling the relevant reactions and products.
By thoroughly characterizing solution reactions and using thermodynamic modeling of the Gibbs free energy landscape, especially with organic complexing ligands, we aim to improve reaction kinetics and control over reaction products. CARBO-CEM employs advanced micro characterization techniques, such as a synchrotron-coupled microfluidics platform, alongside thermodynamic modeling to support experimental investigations. A thermodynamic parameter library for magnesium carbonate cements will be created, which will be the first of its kind to include organic ligands and is expected to be broadly applicable to other cementitious binders.
This research will enhance scientific understanding of magnesium carbonate cements and help bring carbon-capturing cement closer to commercial use. This could have significant societal impacts by enabling large-scale carbon capture and utilization (CCU), potentially playing a crucial role in achieving a carbon-neutral society in the future.
Acknowledgments
This project was funded by Kvantum Institute. Fiber and Particle Engineering Research unit, and Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit conducted the research work.
Session 5. Recent advances and future directions in innovative NMR and biomaterials for sustainability
5.3. Production and Development of Novel Natural Nano and Micro Biomaterials and Diagnostic Technologies for Catalytic, and Bio- and Circular Economics
Feby W Pratiwi, Reny T Thomas, Mohammad Karzarjeddi, Marjaana Sarpola, Ilkka Miinalainen, Olha Makieieva, Soile Jokipii-Lukkari, Caglar Elbuken, Kristiina Oksman, Seppo J. Vainio and Henrikki Liimatainen
Kvantum Institute, Disease Networks, Ecology and Genetics and Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Units, University of Oulu
Plant-derived nanovesicles such as bilberries nanovesicles (BNVs), show immense promise as next-generation biotherapeutics and functional food ingredients; however, their isolation, purification, and storage on a large scale remain a challenge. In this study, biocompatible and nanostructured composite all-cellulose membranes are introduced as a scalable and straightforward approach to the isolation of BNV. The membranes consisting of a cellulose acetate matrix infused with anionic or cationic nanocelluloses promoted selective capturing of BNVs through electrostatic and size exclusion-mediated depth filtration. Furthermore, the surface of the composite membrane acted as a storage matrix for BNV, ensuring their prolonged stability at 4°C. The BNVs stored in the membrane could be promptly released through elution assisted by low-pressure vacuum filtration or diffusion in liquid media. The morphology, bioactivity, and stability of the extracted BNVs were preserved, and the release rate of BNVs in different cell cultures could be regulated, facilitating their use for local therapy. Consequently, this approach paves the way for the scalable production, purification, and storage of nanovesicles and advances their use in biotherapeutics and functional foods.
5.4. Species Derived Exo Vesicles as Novel Bioaerosol Type & Biodiversity Indicators (AirBioDiV)
Seppo Vainio, Caglar Elbugen, Soile Jokipii-Lukkari and Henrikki Liimatainen
Kvantum Institute, Disease Networks, Ecology and Genetics and Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Units, University of Oulu
Nature uses as a cell communication system in most if not all species a rather recently identified mechanism. This signaling involves cell secreted lipid membrane enveloped vesicles (EVs). These nano- and microstructures transmit complex set of regulatory molecules such as RNA, DNA, proteins, and lipids to cells and across the barriers. For example, tree-derived EVs may function as bioaerosols and enter cells to deliver their load to metabolic control. We aim to test a hypothesis that natural EVs would serve as novel environmental DNA, “molecular resilience factors” providing openings to species diversity meta-barcoding measures as well. EVs may offer to diagnose via their molecular signature’s natures “health status” at the end. Functionalized nanocellulose/ extracellular matrix derived filters will be developed to capture EVs to classify and enrich diagnostic information by microfluidic sensors. We aim also to target roles EVs in climate change and species diversity decay measures.
POSTERS
****