Aims and scope

International Journal of Photoenergy is a peer-reviewed, open access journal that publishes original research articles as well as review articles in all areas of photoenergy. The journal consolidates research activities in photochemistry and solar energy utilization into a single and unique forum for discussing and sharing knowledge.

The journal covers the following topics and applications:

        Photocatalysis
        Photostability and Toxicity of Drugs and UV-Photoprotection
        Solar Energy
        Artificial Light Harvesting Systems
        Photomedicine
        Photo Nanosystems
        Nano Tools for Solar Energy and Photochemistry
        Solar Chemistry
        Photochromism
        Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
        PV Systems
        Nano Structured Solar Cells

Special Issue on Valorization of Waste Materials: Innovations in Sustainable Energy Systems
Submission Date: 2026-04-24

Description

The global push towards sustainable energy solutions and the circular economy has driven significant interest in the valorization of waste materials for energy applications. This Special Issue aims to explore the latest advancements in the conversion of waste materials into valuable resources for energy production, storage, and conversion systems. By focusing on the innovative approaches that leverage waste materials, this issue seeks to address the dual challenges of waste management and sustainable energy generation. The scope of this Special Issue encompasses a wide range of research areas, including but not limited to: Waste-to-Energy Technologies: Innovative processes and technologies that convert waste materials, including industrial, agricultural, and municipal waste, into energy carriers such as biofuels, biogas, and hydrogen. Advanced Materials from Waste: Development of novel materials derived from waste, such as carbon materials, metal oxides, and composite materials, for applications in batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Catalytic Processes: Utilization of waste-derived catalysts in photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and thermocatalysis for enhanced energy conversion efficiency and environmental remediation. Circular Economy in Energy Systems: Strategies for integrating waste valorization into circular economic models to improve sustainability in energy systems, including life-cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis. Case Studies and Applications: Practical implementations and case studies of waste valorization in real-world energy systems, demonstrating the feasibility, scalability, and economic viability of these approaches. This Special Issue invites original research articles, reviews, and case studies that provide new insights into the design, synthesis, and application of waste-derived materials and processes in energy systems. Contributions that highlight interdisciplinary approaches, address sustainability challenges, and propose innovative solutions for waste valorization in energy systems are particularly encouraged. Through this collection, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the potential of waste materials as key enablers in the transition towards sustainable and resilient energy systems.

Topics:

Bioenergy from Agricultural Waste: Biomass Conversion Technologies Utilization of Industrial By-Products for Advanced Energy Storage Materials Upcycling Plastic Waste into High-Performance Supercapacitors Conversion of Municipal Solid Waste into Biofuels and Biogas Synthesis of Carbon Nanomaterials from Organic Waste for Energy Applications Metal Recovery and Reuse in Energy Devices from Electronic Waste Innovative Approaches to Catalysis Using Waste-Derived Nanomaterials Transforming Food Waste into Bioenergy and Value-Added Products Circular Economy Models Integrating Waste Valorization in Energy Systems Valorization of Sludge Waste in Fuel Cells and Batteries Recycling Construction Waste for Sustainable Energy Materials Photocatalytic Degradation of Pollutants Using Waste-Derived Catalysts Techno-Economic Analysis of Waste-to-Energy Processes Environmental Impact and Life-Cycle Assessment of Waste Valorization in Energy Applications Development of Hybrid Materials from Waste for Enhanced Electrocatalysis

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

    Bioenergy from Agricultural Waste
    Innovative processes and technologies that convert waste materials
    including industrial, agricultural , and municipal waste
    energy carriers such as biofuels, biogas, and hydrogen