Smart Waste, Smarter World: Exploring Waste Types, Trends, and Tech-Driven Valorization Through Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Blockchain Segun E. Ibitoye, Amit K. Ball, Raul V. Rodriguez, Olalekan A. Olayemi, Peplluis Esteva, et al. Sustainable Development, 2026 Global municipal solid waste generation is projected to exceed 3.8 billion tonnes annually by 2050. This makes the need for smart, inclusive, and scalable waste valorization systems more urgent than ever. This review critically explores the shift from conventional waste management to intelligent, technology‐driven solutions aligned with circular economy goals. Key findings highlight the transformative role of digital tools in waste classification, forecasting, and real‐time monitoring. Long Short‐Term Memory models achieved up to 94% accuracy in biogas prediction, while XGBoost demonstrated 98.5% accuracy in solid waste generation forecasting. Deep learning systems have reached classification accuracies of 83.11% across 28 recyclable categories and mean average precision scores up to 63% in complex waste detection. Despite promising advances, challenges such as data quality, regulatory hurdles, and system interoperability persist. This article contributes both a conceptual and practical blueprint for stakeholders, positioning smart waste valorization as a strategic opportunity to drive innovation.
Safety Considerations in Deployment of Robotic Systems – A Systematic Review Adedire D. Adesiji, Segun E. Ibitoye, Rasheedat M. Mahamood, Olalekan A. Olayemi, Peter O. Omoniyi, et al. Journal of Field Robotics, 2026 An in‐depth understanding of the risks related to robotic systems is crucial to guarantee safety throughout all stages of robot design and operations. This required a thorough risk assessment following international standards. This study presents a systematic review of previous research on safety considerations in the design of robotic systems, concentrating exclusively on peer‐reviewed articles. A search method was developed to collect relevant articles, using keywords such as safety, fault, risk evaluation, safety evaluation, risk assessment, and ergonomics, among others. The keyword “robot” was utilized to bias the search results, which helped to narrow down collected articles to papers directly related to robotics. The risk assessment process includes recognizing machine shortcomings, recognizing threats, evaluating risk, and articulating a standardized computerized risk strategy. Mathematical analysis plays a crucial role in assessing the technical and social behavior of robots in different applications. Generally, injury associated with robots arises from errors during risk assessment. The Risk Ranking Number (HRN) is employed to quantify the degree of safety, incorporating factors like the possibility of occurrence and magnitude of potential hazard. In robot design, the main attention should be on minimizing/eradicating physical hazards and optimizing control mechanisms. Algorithms like force limitation and obstacle avoidance can minimize injury risk, especially during robot–human interactions. The review underscores the critical importance of establishing comprehensive risk assessment frameworks and utilizing safety models, algorithms, and functions as crucial tools to safeguard the integrity and security of robotic systems.
Optimization of Rice Straw Properties via Torrefaction for Solid Fuel Applications Segun E. Ibitoye, Chanchal Loha, Rasheedat M. Mahamood, Olalekan A. Olayemi, Meraj Alam, et al. Bioenergy Research, 2025 This study investigated the potential of biochar produced via torrefaction of rice straw as a sustainable alternative to coal and coke in iron and steel production. The effects of process parameters, temperature (200–300 °C), residence time (20–60 min), and heating rate (10–30 °C/min) on torrefaction yield were evaluated. Following optimization, the biochar was characterized through ultimate, proximate, SEM, BET, EDS, and TG analyses, and its properties were compared to those of coal. The results indicated that the solid, Liquid, and syngas yields ranged from 44.67–96.43, 1.50–22.39, and 2.07–36.79%, respectively. The optimized process parameters achieved a solid yield of approximately 64% at an optimal temperature of 270 °C. The moisture, ash, volatile, and fixed contents of the biochar ranged from 7.43–8.80, 5.76–6.87, 21.75–28.26, and 56.83–63.82%, respectively. Among the optimized samples, O3 exhibited superior combustion performance, with a fixed carbon content of 63.82%, and morphological properties comparable to bituminous coal. The HHV (19.88 MJ/kg) of the optimized biochar falls within the upper range of lignite and approaches the lower range of bituminous coal. The optimized biochar showed a significantly higher BET surface area (58.845–59.572 m2/g) than lignite and anthracite (0.187–1.498 m2/g). Its BJH-specific surface area (47.423–48.194 m2/g) also far exceeds that of coal (0.178–1.985 m2/g), indicating superior adsorption capacity. Additionally, the total pore volume of the biochar (0.1366–0.1407 cm3/g) and average pore diameter (4.457–4.765 nm) surpass those of coal, supporting enhanced mass transfer and surface interactions.
The Use of 5G Networks in Enhancing Connectivity in Industrial Robotics Peter Onu, Adeolu A. Adediran, Segun E. Ibitoye, Monday Jubrin Abdullahi, Adetoye Ayokunle Nipes Journal of Science and Technology Research, 2025 Implementing a 5G network in industrial robotics is on the verge of changing the manufacturing sector by strengthening connectivity, designing systems for high-speed data communication, and assisting in increasing automation. This paper research shows that 5G networks deal with limited industrial systems as insufficient bandwidth, slow response time, and capacity constraints; characteristics of 5G, which are high response time, sufficient bandwidth, and the ability to accommodate multiple devices, help to improve the performance of the robots in the industry by bringing about swift response time, swift data been more reliable and improve communication in rapidly changing environments. The paper also dives into key applications of 5G in industrial robotics, comprising autonomous systems, industrial connectivity, enhanced robotics safety systems, and telemetric monitoring. It posits the challenges encountered in infrastructure associated with using 5G in industrial environments. By examining research done currently and realworld case studies, this paper provides the radical effects of 5G on industrial robotics, providing a deeper understanding of the future of next-generation factories and Industry 4.0. The research results propose that 5G-enabled robotics will notably improve the efficiency of the operation, adaptability, and innovative excellence across industries.
Energy potential of biochar from slow pyrolysis of mixed tree leaves in a pilot-scale fixed-bed reactor Segun E. Ibitoye, Meraj Alam, Olalekan A. Olayemi, Esther T. Akinlabi, Ishita Sarkar, et al. International Journal of Renewable Energy Development, 2025 Thermochemical conversion processes, such as pyrolysis, offered significant potential for harnessing energy from biomass as a substitute for conventional fuels. This study investigated energy generation from mixed tree leaves through pyrolysis. The pyrolysis was conducted at 3 temperatures: 400, 500, and 600 °C. Characterization of the feedstock and pyrolysis products was carried out following international standards. The results showed that bio-oil yields (26.13–39.95%) and syngas yields (30.33–39.38%) increased with temperature, while the char yield decreased from 43.66-29.67%. The FC VM, AC, and MC of the biochars varied from 61.26-67.71, 4.58-12.75, 21.32-25.32, and 2.39-4.67%, respectively. After pyrolysis, the highest C (67.71%) was obtained at 600 °C, while the highest H (3.98%) was recorded at 400 °C. The study revealed that FC, AC, and C increased with temperature, whereas MC, VM, H, and O decreased. The produced biochars, particularly Char600, demonstrated HHV values (up to 23.32 MJ/kg), improved FC, and enhanced BET surface areas. While slightly lower than the HHV of traditional metallurgical coke, the biochars showed strong potential for partial substitution or co-injection in high-temperature metallurgical processes. The enhanced porosity and C contribute to their suitability as renewable solid fuels, supporting carbon footprint reduction in heavy industries.
Coordination of distance relays with a new flexible time-voltage-current characteristic numerical relay implemented using FPGA N Praneeth, STP Srinivas, SE Ibitoye, ET Akinlabi, RM Mahamood, ... Electric Power Systems Research 258, 113050 , 2026 2026
Nature-inspired neural network-based intelligent modeling approaches for micro additive manufacturing system AK Ball, AK Pradhan, SE Ibitoye, MA Thanedar, SR Mallick, ... The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 1-28 , 2026 2026
Smart waste, smarter world: exploring waste types, trends, and tech‐driven valorization through artificial intelligence, internet of things, and blockchain SE Ibitoye, AK Ball, RV Rodriguez, OA Olayemi, P Esteva, PO Omoniyi, ... Sustainable Development 34, 132-153 , 2026 2026 Citations: 7
Experimental and Aspen Plus Simulation of Rice Husk Pyrolysis with Integrated Steam Reforming for Hydrogen-Rich Syngas Production M Alam, SE Ibitoye, I Sarkar, OA Olayemi, MJ Abdullahi, C Loha Chemistry Africa 9 (31) , 2026 2026
Safety considerations in deployment of robotic systems–a systematic review AD Adesiji, SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, OA Olayemi, PO Omoniyi, TC Jen, ... Journal of field robotics 43 (1), 5-33 , 2026 2026 Citations: 9
The Useof 5G Networks in Enhancing Connectivity in Industrial Robotics AA Peter Onu, Adeolu A Adediran, Segun E Ibitoye, Monday Jubrin Abdullahi NIPES-JSTR ISSUE 7, 1350-1358 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
How Blockchain-Based Intelligent Traceability Systems and Edge Computing is Promoting Smart Agriculture P Onu, DO Bolaji, AA Adediran, SE Ibitoye, MJ Abdullahi NIPES-JSTR ISSUE 7, 1343–1349 , 2025 2025
Optimization of rice straw properties via torrefaction for solid fuel applications SE Ibitoye, C Loha, RM Mahamood, OA Olayemi, M Alam, TC Jen, ... Bioenergy research 18 (1), 95 , 2025 2025 Citations: 5
Energy potential of biochar from slow pyrolysis of mixed tree leaves in a pilot-scale fixed-bed reactor SE Ibitoye, M Alam, OA Olayemi, ET Akinlabi, I Sarkar, RM Mahamood, ... International journal of renewable energy development 14 (5), 992-1006 , 2025 2025
Design and construction of low-cost biomass pyrolysis reactor for research and teaching in universities and colleges SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, OA Olayemi, TC Jen, PO Omoniyi, C Loha, ... Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery 15 (12), 18887-18903 , 2025 2025 Citations: 7
Dynamic features of heat transfer in a square enclosure induced by an adiabatic rotating circular cylinder with double-diffusive buoyancy forces OA Olayemi, LT Oladimeji, SE Ibitoye, AM Obalalu, DO Olayemi, K U., ... ZAMM - Journal of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics 105, e202400964 , 2025 2025 Citations: 10
Natural convective heat transfer in trapezoidal enclosure containing a concentric elliptical cylinder OA Olayemi, FO Mustapha, SE Ibitoye, AM Obalalu, K Al-Farhany, U Khan Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry 149 (24), 15353-15369 , 2024 2024 Citations: 11
An overview of biochar production techniques and application in iron and steel industries SE Ibitoye, C Loha, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, M Alam, I Sarkar, P Das, ... Bioresources and bioprocessing 11 (1), 65 , 2024 2024 Citations: 84
An overview of biochar production techniques and application in iron and steel industries. Bioresour Bioprocess 11: 65 SE Ibitoye, C Loha, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, M Alam, I Sarkar, P Das, ... 2024 Citations: 10
An overview of biomass solid fuels: Biomass sources, processing methods, and morphological and microstructural properties SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, C Loha, ET Akinlabi Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts 8 (4), 333-360 , 2023 2023 Citations: 198
Recycling Plastic Waste as Composite Reinforcement P Omoniyi, S Ibitoye, O Popoola, P Ikubanni, A Adeleke, M Mahamood, ... E3S Web of Conferences 430, 01298 , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
Effect of densification process parameters on the physico-mechanical properties of composite briquettes of corncob and rice husk SE Ibitoye, HA Ajimotokan, AA Adeleke, C Loha Materials Today: Proceedings , 2023 2023 Citations: 23
Design and fabrication of biomass densification machine for teaching and research purposes SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, C Loha, ET Akinlabi Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 1-12 , 2023 2023 Citations: 13
Parametric studies of mixed convective fluid flow around cylinders of different cross‐sections OA Olayemi, AM Obalalu, SE Ibitoye, K Al‐Farhany, TS Jolayemi, ... Heat Transfer, 1-24 , 2023 2023 Citations: 7
Morphology, microstructure evolution and properties of resin-bonded palm kernel and coconut shell grain-based abrasive grinding A SAMUEL, AB SULAIMAN, H AJIMOTOKAN, S IBITOYE, T AJIBOYE, ... Nigerian Journal of Technological Development 20 (1), 56-65 , 2023 2023 Citations: 4
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
An overview of biomass solid fuels: Biomass sources, processing methods, and morphological and microstructural properties SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, C Loha, ET Akinlabi Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts 8 (4), 333-360 , 2023 2023 Citations: 198
Densification of agro-residues for sustainable energy generation: an overview SE Ibitoye, TC Jen, RM Mahamood, ET Akinlabi Bioresources and bioprocessing 8 (1), 75 , 2021 2021 Citations: 127
Physico-mechanical properties of composite briquettes from corncob and rice husk HA Ajimotokan, SE Ibitoye, JK Odusote, OA Adesoye, PO Omoniyi Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts 4 (3), 159-165 , 2019 2019 Citations: 93
An overview of biochar production techniques and application in iron and steel industries SE Ibitoye, C Loha, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, M Alam, I Sarkar, P Das, ... Bioresources and bioprocessing 11 (1), 65 , 2024 2024 Citations: 84
Mechanical and microstructural evaluation of aluminium matrix composite reinforced with wood particles P Omoniyi, A Adekunle, S Ibitoye, O Olorunpomi, O Abolusoro Journal of King Saud University-Engineering Sciences 34 (6), 445-450 , 2022 2022 Citations: 42
Combustion, physical, and mechanical characterization of composites fuel briquettes from carbonized banana stalk and corncob SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, ET Akinlabi Int J Renew Energy Dev 11 (2), 435-447 , 2022 2022 Citations: 35
Physico-mechanical characterisation of fuel briquettes made from blends of corncob and rice husk HA Ajimotokan, SE Ibitoye, JK Odusote, OA Adesoye, PO Omoniyi Journal of Physics: Conference Series 1378 (2), 022008 , 2019 2019 Citations: 30
Recycling of plastics with compatibilizer as raw materials for the production of automobile bumper AS Adekunle, AA Adeleke, CV Sam Obu, PP Ikubanni, SE Ibitoye, ... Cogent Engineering 7 (1), 1801247 , 2020 2020 Citations: 29
Improving the combustion properties of corncob biomass via torrefaction for solid fuel applications SE Ibitoye, TC Jen, RM Mahamood, ET Akinlabi Journal of Composites Science 5 (10), 260 , 2021 2021 Citations: 27
Effect of densification process parameters on the physico-mechanical properties of composite briquettes of corncob and rice husk SE Ibitoye, HA Ajimotokan, AA Adeleke, C Loha Materials Today: Proceedings , 2023 2023 Citations: 23
Production and testing of biogas using cow dung, jatropha and iron filins AS Adekunle, SE Ibitoye, PO Omoniyi, LJ Jilantikiri, CV Sam-Obu, ... Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts 4 (3), 143-148 , 2019 2019 Citations: 23
Generation of Sustainable Energy from Agro‐Residues through Thermal Pretreatment for Developing Nations: A Review SE Ibitoye, TC Jen, RM Mahamood, ET Akinlabi Advanced Energy and Sustainability Research 2 (12), 2100107 , 2021 2021 Citations: 20
Numerical investigation of thermo-physical properties of non-newtonian fliud in a modelled intestine SE Ibitoye, IK Adegun, PO Omoniyi, TS Ogedengbe, OO Alabi Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts 5 (3), 211-221 , 2020 2020 Citations: 19
Mixed convective heat transfer in a lid-driven concentric trapezoidal enclosure: numerical simulation OA Olayemi, K Al-Farhany, SE Ibitoye, AM Obalalu International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa 60, 43-62 , 2022 2022 Citations: 15
Design and Construction of a Low-Cost-High-Accessibility 3D Printing Machine for Producing Plastic Components KR Ajao, SE Ibitoye, AD Adesiji, ET Akinlabi Journal of Composites Science 6 (9), 265 , 2022 2022 Citations: 14
Design and fabrication of biomass densification machine for teaching and research purposes SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, C Loha, ET Akinlabi Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 1-12 , 2023 2023 Citations: 13
An overview of biomass solid fuels: biomass sources, processing methods, and morphological and microstructural properties. J Bioresour Bioprod 8: 333–360 SE Ibitoye, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, C Loha, ET Akinlabi 2023 Citations: 12
Natural convective heat transfer in trapezoidal enclosure containing a concentric elliptical cylinder OA Olayemi, FO Mustapha, SE Ibitoye, AM Obalalu, K Al-Farhany, U Khan Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry 149 (24), 15353-15369 , 2024 2024 Citations: 11
Dynamic features of heat transfer in a square enclosure induced by an adiabatic rotating circular cylinder with double-diffusive buoyancy forces OA Olayemi, LT Oladimeji, SE Ibitoye, AM Obalalu, DO Olayemi, K U., ... ZAMM - Journal of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics 105, e202400964 , 2025 2025 Citations: 10
An overview of biochar production techniques and application in iron and steel industries. Bioresour Bioprocess 11: 65 SE Ibitoye, C Loha, RM Mahamood, TC Jen, M Alam, I Sarkar, P Das, ... 2024 Citations: 10