Digitisation and the Circular Economy: A Review of Current Research and Future Trends

May combine two claims.

Conference papers make up about 70% of all literature found in this research area across the 9R's, while journal papers make up 19% of selected literature.

“Firstly, conference papers make up about 70% of all literature found in this research area, across the 9R's, while journal papers make up 19% of selected literature.”

May combine two claims.

A SCOPUS search on 'industry 4.0' set between 2012 and early 2018 produced 3034 initial results, and a SCOPUS search of 'circular economy' over the same period yielded 2318 initial results.

“a SCOPUS search on 'industry 4.0' set between the years 2012 and early 2018 produced 3034 initial results; a SCOPUS search of 'circular economy' set between the same period yielded 2318 initial results.”

May combine two claims.

Papers on Industry 4.0 and the circular economy emerged in 2014 with one paper and peaked in 2017 with six identified papers.

“Specifically, papers on this subject only emerged in 2014 (one paper) and peaked in 2017 with six identified papers.”

May combine two claims.

The literature focuses on recycling, recover, and reuse within the context of I4.0, while remanufacturing appears slower in comparison.

“The focus in literature, however, is observed to be on recycling, recover, and reuse within the context of I4.0, while approaches such as remanufacturing appear to be slower in comparison.”

May combine two claims.

Research into data-driven/I4.0 enabled circular approaches shows a general increase, with peaks in 2014 and 2017.

“Research into data-driven/I4.0 enabled circular approaches shows a general increase, with peaks in 2014 and 2017.”

May combine two claims.

Despite wide acceptance that Industry 4.0 can enable the CE, there is still a lack of clarity on how Industry 4.0 can enable a transition to a CE.

“Despite this wide acceptance, there is still a lack of clarity on how I4.0 can enable a transition to a CE.”

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Owing to the dynamic nature of both CE and Industry 4.0 research fields, the heterogeneity of Industry 4.0 technologies, and the complexities and comprehensiveness of CE research, there would be difficulty and limitations in integrating both research fields.

May combine two claims.

Digital tracking and modelling devices, sensors, sensing devices and programmable logic controllers, hybrid genetic algorithms, and automated optical sorting are already utilized in recycling and reuse circular approaches.

“digital tracking and modelling devices used in the steel industry [121], sensors employed for thin-film photovoltaic (PV) technologies [122] and on buildings [123], sensing devices and programmable logic controllers for a steel industrial complex for water [124], hybrid genetic algorithms employed on household appliances [125], and automated optical sorting for recycled glass [126].”

• cites [121] Ness, 2015, Smart steel: New paradigms for the reuse of steel enabled by digital tracking and modelling, J. Clean. Prod. sourceNot checked yet

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• cites [122] Bergesen, 2014, Thin-film photovoltaic power generation offers decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing environmental co-benefits in the long term, Environ. Sci. Technol. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [123] Peng, L.L., Li, J.W., and Bin, Z. (2014). The Application of Digital Technology in the Recycling of Old Industrial Buildings. Adv. Mater. Res., 653–656. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Research publications were drawn from 34 countries, with the USA providing the most publications.

“Research publications were drawn out of 34 countries, with the USA providing the most publications.”

May combine two claims.

Remanufacturing is prevalent within journal articles at 42.90% and conference papers at 57.10%.

“The second aspect of this research is the prevalence of remanufacturing within journal articles (42.90%) and conference papers (57.10%).”

May combine two claims.

Digital sensors are being employed in remanufacture in vehicle engines, mechanical equipment industry, waste electrical and electronic equipment, and as hybrid generic algorithms for certain manufacturing systems.

“For remanufacture , digital sensors are being employed in vehicle engines [127], within mechanical equipment industry [127], on waste electrical and electronic equipment [128], and as hybrid generic algorithms for certain manufacturing systems [129].”

• cites [127] Shan, 2012, Key manufacturing technology & equipment for energy saving and emissions reduction in mechanical equipment industry, Int. J. Precis. Eng. Manuf. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [128] Lau, H.C.W., Tang, C.X.H., Lee, C.K.M., and Ho, G.T.S. (2007). A generic object-based support system for manufacturing processes. Int. J. Prod. Dev., 4. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [129] Gu, Q., and Ji, J. (2005). Fuzzy chance-constrained programming model for the integrated logistics network of remanufacturing/manufacturing system. Control Theory Appl., 22, Available online: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265983215_Fuzzy_chance-constrained_programming_model_for_the_integrated_logistics_network_of_remanufacturingmanufacturing_system.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

The USA and China lead in CE-I4.0 research, with Engineering and Computer Science as main subject areas.

“Earlier figures (Figure 9a,b) show the US and China leading in terms of the areas where most research on circular approaches is most dominant.”

• Also stated in: § 5.3. Analysis of Trend by Means of Technology Life Cycle (TLC) · p. 20 · hedged

  “The dominant subject area according to this context is 'engineering', as indicated in Figure 10.”

• Also stated in: § 6.2. Research Conclusions · p. 25 · plain

  “Currently, the USA and China lead in this research area, with the main subject areas in Engineering and Computer Science.”

May combine two claims.

Integration of digital intelligence within CE approaches can potentially provide opportunities to distribute knowledge, structure, ownership and different levels of customization, but this has largely been unexplored in available CE research.

“While integration of digital intelligence within CE approaches can potentially provide opportunities to distribute knowledge, structure, ownership and different levels of customization [56], this has largely being unexplored in available CE research.”

• cites [56] Antikainen, 2018, Digitalisation as an Enabler of Circular Economy, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Digital sensors are employed in reuse in metal forming, manufacturing industry, virtual engineering objects, and CAx systems within aerospace.

“In the reuse circular approach, digital sensors are seen to be employed in metal forming [130], in the manufacturing industry [131], for virtual engineering objects [132], and for computer aided technologies (CAx) systems within the aerospace industry [133].”

• cites [130] Rojek, 2016, Methods of Computational Intelligence in the Context of Quality Assurance in Foundry Products, Arch. Foundry Eng. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [131] Kern, H., Stefan, F., Fähnrich, K.P., and Dimitrieski, V. (2015, January 14–16). A mapping-based framework for the integration of machine data and information systems. Proceedings of the 8th IADIS International Conference Information Systems 2015 (IS 2015), Madeira, Portugal. Available online: http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84944145438&partnerID=tZOtx3y1.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [132] Shafiq, 2015, Virtual Engineering Object (VEO): Toward experience-based design and manufacturing for industry 4.0, Cybern. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Digital sensors using a big data model in smart computing, RFID in manufacturing, and real-time distributed embedded control software in manufacturing are included in the reuse circular approach.

“Also included in this circular approach category are digital sensors using a big data model in smart computing [134], RFID in the manufacturing industry [135], and real-time distributed embedded control software in the manufacturing industry [136].”

• cites [134] Rana, 2015, Unique Sense: Smart Computing Prototype for Industry 4.0 Revolution with IOT and Bigdata Implementation Model, Indian J. Sci. Technol.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [135] Huang, G.O., Zhang, Y., Dai, Q.Y., Ho, O., and Xu, F.J. (2009). Agent-based workflow management for RFID-enabled real-time reconfigurable manufacturing. Collaborative Design and Planning for Digital Manufacturing, Springer. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [136] Jing, Z., Jianping, W., Guo, Z., and Yunsheng, Z. (2008, January 16–18). Service-oriented design and implementation strategy of real-time distributed embedded control software. Proceedings of the 2008 27th Chinese Control Conference (CCC 2008), Kunming, China.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

I4.0 paradigms and digital technologies were identified to have driven CE-related research in engineering and computer sciences, and less in environmental sciences, business and management, material science, and chemical engineering.

“I4.0 paradigms and digital technologies were identified to have driven CE-related research in engineering and the computer sciences, and less in environmental sciences, business and management, material science, and chemical engineering research areas.”

May combine two claims.

Currently, papers on Circular Economy and Industry 4.0 largely follow an independent direction in research, with the two areas barely interacting, despite acknowledged support that I4.0 gives in the transition to a CE.

“Currently, papers on the two emerging concepts of the 'Circular Economy' and 'Industry 4.0' largely follow an independent direction in research, with the two areas barely interacting, despite the acknowledged support that I4.0 gives in the transition to a CE.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Kirchherr et al. gathered 114 definitions of the CE and analysed them for associated factors and dimensions.

“Kirchherr et al., (2017) [11] gathered 114 definitions of the CE which were analysed for their associated factors and dimensions.”

• cites [11] Kirchherr, 2017, Conceptualizing the Circular Economy: An Analysis of 114 Definitions, Resour. Conserv. Recycl. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

An integration of CE principles and Industry 4.0 possesses potential benefits for industry and academia.

“While largely separate topics, it can be argued that an integration of CE principles and I4.0 possesses potential benefits for industry and academia.”

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Industry 4.0 and digitization are critical in boosting the transformation towards a more sustainable CE and supporting specific circular approaches.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

At the current growth rate, the global middle class is predicted to double by 2030.

“At the current growth rate, the global middle class is predicted to double by 2030 [10]”

• cites [10] Siegel, A., and Bautista, R. (2014). Retail Horizons: Envisioning the Future of the Retail Industry, Forum for the Future and Retail Industry Leaders Association.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

This paper is the first to provide a synergistic and integrative CE-DT framework offering directions for policymakers and guidance for future research through a review of the integrated fields of CE and I4.0.

“This is the first paper to provide a synergistic and integrative CE-DT framework which offers directions for policymakers and guidance for future research through a review of the integrated fields of CE and I4.0.”

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Integrative research is critical to multidisciplinary research areas such as the CE and Industry 4.0.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Industry 4.0 and digitization are critical in boosting the transformation towards a more sustainable CE and supporting specific circular approaches.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Because Industry 4.0 contains a variety and growing number of sub-groups, domains, and technologies and the CE possesses a number of approaches, it is important to refer to key concepts relating to Industry 4.0 and CE in order to synthesize and build a consistent and integrative framework.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: The CE and Industry 4.0 possess similar attributes and complexities and are both emerging concepts.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: An integrative and synergistic framework may be able to provide simplicity and direction for future research.
• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: As Industry 4.0 domains and technologies advance, their uses within the CE increase further.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Industry 4.0 functions through an integration of manufacturing operation systems and information and communication technologies, creating Cyber-Physical Systems.

“It is the latest industrial system which functions through an integration of manufacturing operation systems and information and communication technologies (ICT), thus creating the much nuanced Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) [25,26].”

• cites [25] Dalenogare, 2018, The expected contribution of Industry 4.0 technologies for industrial performance, Int. J. Prod. Econ. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [26] Wang, 2015, Current status and advancement of cyber-physical systems in manufacturing, J. Manuf. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

The prevailing linear economic model of take, make, use and dispose is incompatible with social sustenance and sustainable economic growth.

“It is evident that the prevailing economic model of 'take, make, use and dispose'-or the linear economy-is now incompatible with social sustenance and sustainable economic growth.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

As a goal, Industry 4.0 aims to achieve higher operational efficiency and productivity, as well as higher automation.

“As a goal, Industry 4.0 aims to achieve a higher level of operational efficiency and productivity, as well as a higher level of automation [27].”

• cites [27] Thames, 2016, Software-defined Cloud Manufacturing for Industry 4.0, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Concepts such as Remanufacture, Reverse Logistics, and Refurbishment gained increasing traction in academic literature from 1984 onwards.

“concepts such as 'Remanufacture' [20], 'Reverse Logistics', and 'Refurbishment' gained increasing traction in academic literature from 1984 onwards [20]”

• cites [20] Lund, R.T. (1984). Remanufacturing: The Experience of the United States and Implications for Developing Countries, World Bank. Available online: http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/792491468142480141/Remanufacturing-the-experience-of-the-United-States-and-implications-for-developing-countries.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Industry 4.0 is enabled by converging technological developments including wide-spread Internet connectivity and increasing miniaturization, cost effectiveness, and capability of hardware such as sensors and actuators.

“In terms of ' Technology push ', Industry 4.0 is enabled by a number of converging technological developments [24]. These include the wide-spread Internet connectivity and increasing miniaturization, cost effectiveness, and capability of hardware such as sensors and actuators [30].”

• cites [24] Charter, M. (2018). Design for a Circular Economy in Industry 4.0. Designing for the Circular Economy, Routledge. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [30] Albach, H., Meffert, H., Pinkwart, A., and Ralf, R. (2015). Change Through Digitization—Value Creation in the Age of Industry 4.0. Management of Permanent Change, Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Industry 4.0 is a phenomenon driven by both an application pull and a technology push.

“Industry 4.0 (I4.0) or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is a phenomenon driven by both an application pull and a technology push [24].”

• cites [24] Charter, M. (2018). Design for a Circular Economy in Industry 4.0. Designing for the Circular Economy, Routledge. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The 3R principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle have been studied and highlighted in academic literature since the early 1950s.

“The 3R principles of 'Reduce', 'Reuse', and 'Recycle' are highlighted in [19], and have been studied and highlighted in academic literature since the early 1950's”

• cites [19] Lacy, P., and Rutqvist, J. (2016). Waste to Wealth, Palgrave Macmillan. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Key differences in CE definitions derive from the concept being employed by different stakeholders.

“Key differences in CE definitions appear to derive from the fact that the concept is employed by different stakeholders.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The term circular economy has been in existence since the 1970s.

“[16] reminds us that the term has been in existence since the 1970s”

• cites [16] Nobre, 2017, Scientific literature analysis on big data and internet of things applications on circular economy: A bibliometric study, Scientometrics sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

There is no commonly accepted definition of CE.

“As there is no commonly accepted definition [21] of CE”

• cites [21] Yuan, 2006, The Circular Economy: A New Development Strategy in China, J. Ind. Ecol. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

Understanding and enabling circular approaches such as remanufacturing, refurbishing, and recycling is necessary for the transition towards a CE.

“Understanding and enabling circular approaches, such as remanufacturing, refurbishing, and recycling, is necessary for the transition towards a CE.”

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Industry 4.0 and digitization are critical in boosting the transformation towards a more sustainable CE and supporting specific circular approaches.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Big data, a component of Industry 4.0, has the potential to drive industrial symbiosis within a CE.

“while arguing for the imperativeness of this research as big data (a component of I4.0 with the potential to drive industrial symbiosis within a CE).”

• cites [55] Tseng, 2018, Circular economy meets industry 4.0: Can big data drive industrial symbiosis?, Resour. Conserv. Recycl. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

SLR can help identify research trends, future work in the area, and the tools used in solving the problems being addressed.

“SLR can help this research identify research trends, future work in the area, and the tools used in solving the problems being addressed [68].”

• cites [68] Ruschel, 2017, Industrial maintenance decision-making: A systematic literature review, J. Manuf. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Integrative research is critical to multidisciplinary research areas such as the CE and Industry 4.0.

May combine two claims.

The trend of research indicates a research area that is new and steadily growing.

“Thus, the trend of the research indicates a research area which is new and steadily growing.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

Antikainen et al. and Pagoropoulous et al. acknowledge the emergent role of digital technologies in the circular economy and the gap in integrated research, but fail to suggest reasons for this gap.

“Other authors such as Antikainen et al., (2018) [56] and Pagoropoulous et al., (2017) [57] acknowledge the emergent role of digital technologies in the circular economy and the gap in integrated research, but fail to suggest reasons for this gap of research.”

• cites [56] Antikainen, 2018, Digitalisation as an Enabler of Circular Economy, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [57] Pagoropoulos, 2017, The Emergent Role of Digital Technologies in the Circular Economy: A Review, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The introduction of digital technologies and connected objects has the potential to promote resource reduction and the facilitation of circular systems.

“the introduction of digital technologies and connected objects is agreed to have the potential to promote resource reduction and the facilitation of circular systems [54].”

• cites [54] Bocken, 2016, Product design and business model strategies for a circular economy, J. Ind. Prod. Eng.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Digital technologies and the wider field of Industry 4.0 have been suggested as having the potential to play a leading role in enabling and scaling the CE.

“Digital technologies and the wider field of I4.0 have been suggested as having the potential to play a leading role in enabling and scaling the CE [19].”

• cites [19] Lacy, P., and Rutqvist, J. (2016). Waste to Wealth, Palgrave Macmillan. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Industry 4.0 has been widely accepted to be an enabler of the CE.

“I4.0 has been widely accepted to be an enabler of the CE [34]”

• cites [34] Jabbour, 2018, Industry 4.0 and the circular economy: A proposed research agenda and original roadmap for sustainable operations, Ann. Oper. Res. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The world economy is only 9.1% circular.

“Studies have shown that the world economy is only 9.1% circular [38].”

• cites [38] Circle Economy (2018, September 17). The Circularity Gap Report. Available online: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/ad6e59_c497492e589c4307987017f04d7af864.pdf.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

The CE is currently populated by diverging approaches, which has hampered the dissemination of the CE field.

“However, the CE is currently populated by diverging approaches [52], which has hampered the dissemination of the CE field.”

• cites [52] Kalmykova, 2017, Circular economy—From review of theories and practices to development of implementation tools, Resour. Conserv. Recycl. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The utilization of artificial intelligence or blockchain technology can bring novel ways to improve traceability and transparency throughout a product's lifetime.

“The utilization of artificial intelligence or blockchain technology, for example, bringing novel was to improve traceability and transparency throughout a product's lifetime [65].”

• cites [65] Industry 4.0—Opportunities behind the Challenge (2018, August 07). UNIDO Background Paper. Available online: https://www.unido.org/gc17/industry40.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• AssumptionThe authors state this as an assumption: Industry 4.0 and digitization are critical in boosting the transformation towards a more sustainable CE and supporting specific circular approaches.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The 9R's were used as search strings for the review.

“Thus, the 9R's will be utilized as search strings.”

May combine two claims.

The Industry 4.0 technological field is highly heterogeneous, leading to confusion as observed by stakeholders.

“In addition, the I4.0 technological field is highly heterogeneous [42], leading to confusion, as observed by stakeholders [42].”

• cites [42] Chiarello, 2018, Extracting and mapping industry 4.0 technologies using wikipedia, Comput. Ind. sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

There will be 1 billion new consumers by 2020.

“a growing middle class (1 billion new consumers by 2020 [39])”

• cites [39] Kharas, H. (2010). The Emerging Middle Class in Developing Countries, OECD.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

An integrated GHRM-GSCM had implications for scholars, managers, and practitioners in both areas in terms of organizational sustainability and truly sustainable supply chains.

“It was found that an integrated GHRM-GSCM had implications for scholars, managers, and practitioners in both areas in terms of organizational sustainability and truly sustainable supply chains [59].”

• cites [59] Sarkis, 2010, Stakeholder pressure and the adoption of environmental practices: The mediating effect of training, J. Oper. Manag. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted), S3 (load-bearing).

The omission of integrated CE-I4.0 research is due to gaps in operational data-driven and 3Rs optimization solutions.

“It was suggested [55] that this omission is due to 'gaps in operational data-driven and 3Rs optimization solutions'”

• cites [55] Tseng, 2018, Circular economy meets industry 4.0: Can big data drive industrial symbiosis?, Resour. Conserv. Recycl. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted), S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

The topic nature of both subjects would suggest the reason for the gap in research.

“According to [34], the topic nature of both subjects would suggest the reason for the gap in research.”

• cites [34] Jabbour, 2018, Industry 4.0 and the circular economy: A proposed research agenda and original roadmap for sustainable operations, Ann. Oper. Res. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

A monumental amount of municipal solid waste is generated globally, at 1.3 billion tonnes per year.

“a monumental amount of municipal solid waste generated globally (1.3 billion tonnes per year) [40].”

• cites [40] Hoornweg, D., and Bhada, P. (2012). What a Waste: A Global Review of Solid Waste Management, World Bank. sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The macro view of TLC holds that technological evolution, technological progression, and technological progression within industries and industry evolution are central to the technology evolution model.

“The macro view of TLC understands that technological evolution, technological progression, and technological progression within industries and industry evolution are central to the technology evolution model [111,112].”

• cites [111] Joel, A.C., and Baum, A.M.M. (2004). Context, technology and strategy: Forging new perspectives on the industry life cycle. Business Strategy over the Industry Lifecycle, Emerald Group Publishing Limited.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [112] Yu, 2010, A Reflective Review of Disruptive Innovation Theory, Int. J. Manag. Rev. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

In the TLC, the era of ferment variation follows technological discontinuity, and a dominant single configuration emerges after rivalry among variations of the original breakthrough.

“The era of ferment variation follows the period of technological discontinuity. In this period, a dominant, single configuration takes place after a period where rivalry and competition among variations of the original breakthrough occur [113].”

• cites [113] Abernathy, 1978, Patterns of innovation in technology, Technol. Rev.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The macro model of TLC incorporates technological discontinuity, a breakthrough innovation affecting products and/or processes.

“The macro model of TLC incorporates technological discontinuity (a breakthrough innovation which affects both products and/or processes) [107].”

• cites [107] Taylor, 2012, The technology life cycle: Conceptualization and managerial implications, Int. J. Prod. Econ. sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The next step in the TLC cycle is the era of evolution where incremental changes are made for the selected technology.

“The next step in this cycle is the era of evolution where incremental changes are made for the selected technology. Refs. [112,113] describes these changes as evolutionary, continuous, incremental, or 'nuts and bolts' technologies.”

• cites [112] Yu, 2010, A Reflective Review of Disruptive Innovation Theory, Int. J. Manag. Rev. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [113] Abernathy, 1978, Patterns of innovation in technology, Technol. Rev.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The dominant design becomes the industry standard.

“As indicated in Figure 12, this dominant design becomes the industry standard.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Within the TLC framework, technological frames capture how stakeholders categorize a technology relative to other technologies.

“In addition, ref. [118] suggests that within this TLC framework, 'technological frames' which capture how stakeholders categorize a technology relative to other technologies can be understood.”

• cites [118] Orlikowski, 1994, Technological Frames: Making Sense of Information Technology in Organisations, ACM Trans. Inf. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

This area of research can be classified as multidisciplinary owing to an abundance of academic areas.

“Thus, this area of research can be classified as ' multidisciplinary ' owing to an abundance of academic areas.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Understanding the long-term composition of innovation in energy technologies is important for technology forecasting and public policy planning in the context of climate change.

“According to [119], understanding the long-term composition of innovation in energy technologies is important for technology forecasting and public policy planning in the context of climate change.”

• cites [119] Huenteler, 2016, Technology life-cycles in the energy sector—Technological characteristics and the role of deployment for innovation, Technol. Forecast. Soc. Chang. sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

I4.0 technologies include cloud manufacturing, cyber-physical systems, internet of things, additive manufacturing, flexible manufacturing lines, big data collection and analysis, digital automation with sensors, and simulation/analysis of virtual models.

“These will include technologies within cloud manufacturing, cyber-physical systems, internet of things, additive manufacturing, flexible manufacturing lines, big data collection and analysis, digital automation with sensors, and simulation/analysis of virtual models [98].”

• cites [98] Lu, 2017, Industry 4.0: A survey on technologies, applications and open research issues, J. Ind. Inf. Integr.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

A macro-level perspective is needed when exploring CE-I4.0 integration through the dynamics of the technology life cycle.

“Hence, for research that integrates CE into Industry 4.0 by means of understanding the utilized technologies, it can be argued that a macro-level perspective is needed when exploring this theme through the dynamics of the TLC [109].”

• cites [109] Kim, 2003, Managing the transition of technology life cycle, Technovation sourceNot checked yet

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Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Scientific publications, patents, start-up companies, and reported product launches make up technology life cycle indicators.

“Based on [116], scientific publications, patents, start-up companies, and reported product launches make up technology life cycle indicators.”

• cites [116] Bornkessel, 2016, Crossing industrial boundaries at the pharma-nutrition interface in probiotics: A life cycle perspective, PharmaNutrition sourceNot checked yet

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Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

Performance criteria used to evaluate a new technology are important for emerging technologies in I4.0.

“Such performance criteria which are used to evaluate a new technology are important for emerging technologies in I4.0.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The continuity of the TLC cycle of variation begins with a further discontinuity at the point of technological discontinuity.

“The continuity of this cycle of variation begins with a further discontinuity at the point of technological discontinuity [114].”

• cites [114] Murmann, 2006, Toward a systematic framework for research on dominant designs, technological innovations, and industrial change, Res. Policy sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

CE-I4.0 integration will require a focus on innovative activities, as well as emerging digital technologies.

“This is also important in the context of the CE [107] as CE-I4.0 integration will require a focus on innovative activities, as well as emerging digital technologies [120].”

• cites [107] Taylor, 2012, The technology life cycle: Conceptualization and managerial implications, Int. J. Prod. Econ. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [120] Roy, R., Stark, R., Tracht, K., Takata, S., and Mori, M. (2016). Continuous maintenance and the future—Foundations and technological challenges. CIRP Ann. Manuf. Technol. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The ReSOLVE framework has little focus on experiences and feedback of the user, listing businesses, government, and academia as decision-makers.

“there is little focus on the experiences and feedback of the user, as it lists businesses, the government, and academia as decision-makers [137].”

• cites [137] Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2015). Growth within: A Circular Economy Vision for a Competitive Europe, Ellen MacArthur Foundation.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

A new form of intelligence known as 'digital intelligence' was proposed as a response to cultural change brought about by digital technologies.

“Stemming from Gardner's intelligence classification scheme [148], a new form of intelligence known as 'digital intelligence' was proposed as a response to the cultural change brought about by digital technologies [149].”

• cites [148] Davis, 1987, The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, Ann. Dyslexia sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [149] Adams, 2004, Digital intelligence fostered by technology, J. Technol. Stud. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Multidisciplinarity already identified in I4.0 and CE research would drive development of a related technological infrastructure for CE-DT integration.

“To drive the development of a related technological infrastructure for a CE-DT integration would be multidisciplinarity already identified in I4.0 and the CE research.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Potential users make their interpretations based on their technological frames and on comparisons with interpretations made by other users.

“Potential users, as argued in [139], make their interpretations based on their technological frames and on comparisons with interpretations made by other users.”

• cites [139] 2018, Ownership of personal data in the Internet of Things, Comput. Law Secur. Rev. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Research in CE-DT research will grow, with technologies outpacing CE approaches.

“research in CE-DT research will grow, with technologies outpac-ing CE approaches”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

End-users guide the design and interpretation of various CE-DT technologies and trends.

“End-users guide the design and interpretation of various CE-DT technologies and trends.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Variation is random.

“Variation is random.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Technical variety is driven by exogenous stochastic technological advances.

“Technical variety is driven by exogenous stochastic technological advances [141].”

• cites [141] 1986, Lead Users: A Source of Novel Product Concepts, Manag. Sci.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Technological progress is expected to rapidly increase due to competing stakeholders and countries.

“Technological progress is expected to rapidly increase due to the competing stakeholders and countries.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

In adopting Lotus Notes, users imposed their assumptions about familiar technologies on the new product, comparing it with word processing and spreadsheet programs.

“Following this, ref. [118] shows that in adopting a new technology at the time, Lotus Notes, users imposed their assumptions about familiar technologies on the new product, where they made comparisons with word processing and spreadsheet programs.”

• cites [118] Orlikowski, 1994, Technological Frames: Making Sense of Information Technology in Organisations, ACM Trans. Inf. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The proposed framework bridges the three CE cycle principles and users as stakeholders.

“The proposed framework attempts to create a bridge between the three principles that govern the CE cycles and users as stakeholders.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation proposed the ReSOLVE framework of Regenerate, Share, Optimize, Loop, Virtualize and Exchange as six key business actions to aid organizations in implementing CE principles.

“The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a key global charity involved in pursuing CE objectives amongst key stakeholders, proposed the ReSOLVE framework [137] of Regenerate , Share , Optimize , Loop , Virtualize and Exchange as six key business actions to aid organizations in implementing the principles of the CE.”

• cites [137] Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2015). Growth within: A Circular Economy Vision for a Competitive Europe, Ellen MacArthur Foundation.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

In an analysis of 224 related papers, 'data' appeared 229 times as part of the 25 most frequent words related to Industry 4.0.

“Studies by Liao et al., (2017) show that 'data' appeared 229 times as part of the 25 most frequent words related to Industry 4.0, when 224 related papers were analyzed [28].”

• cites [28] Liao, 2017, Past, present and future of Industry 4.0—A systematic literature review and research agenda proposal, Int. J. Prod. Res. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

CE-DT results from industry-academic demand, existing CE approach, and procedures.

“CE-DT results from industry-academic demand, existing CE approach, and procedures.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The concept of Process-Based Information Systems (PBIS) was developed in research examining technological infrastructure for organizations that solely depend on information systems.

“In research to examine the technological infrastructure important for organizations which solely depend on information systems [142], the concept of 'Process-Based Information Systems' or PBIS was developed.”

• cites [142] Pereira, 2016, Process-based Information Systems: Technological Infrastructure and Development Issues, Procedia Comput. Sci. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The ReSOLVE framework does not fully appreciate the emerging technologies that can transform both service- and product-oriented businesses.

“While this framework is elaborate in definition, it can be argued that it does not fully appreciate the emerging technologies that can transform both service- and product-oriented businesses.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

PBIS is developed by integrating activities and technologies at coordination and operation levels, unifying all computational resources of a company into a single global infrastructure.

“This framework is developed by integrating activities and technologies at two defined levels; the coordination level and the operation level, unifying all the computational resources of a company into a single global infrastructure.”

May combine two claims.

Users of CE-I4.0 tools are expected to develop different interpretations of new technologies as they use them in practice, which can drive additional variation and functions in the original design stage.

“Users of CE-I4.0 tools are expected to develop different interpretations of new technologies as they use them in practice, which can drive additional variation [140] and functions in the original design stage, for example, design for remanufactured DfRem.”

• cites [140] Kaplan, 2008, Thinking about technology: Applying a cognitive lens to technical change, Res. Policy sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

In the same firm, variation in framing caused different Lotus Notes implementations.

“The same research results show that in the same firm, variation in framing caused different Lotus Notes implementations.”

• cites [118] Orlikowski, 1994, Technological Frames: Making Sense of Information Technology in Organisations, ACM Trans. Inf. Syst. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Inertia develops around the CE approaches of reuse, recycle, remanufacture, and repair.

“Inertia develops around these CE approaches.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

The ReSOLVE actions increase utilization of physical assets, prolong their life, and shift resource use from finite to renewable sources.

“Also, while these actions all increase the utilization of physical assets, prolonging their life and shift resource use from finite to renewable sources [138]”

• cites [138] Tukker, 2013, Product services for a resource-ef fi cient and circular economy e a review, J. Clean. Prod. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Variation in CE-DT integrated areas is not random but strategic.

“Variation here is not random but strategic.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

An I4.0 technology linked to a CE approach is expected to remain dominant.

“I4.0 technology linked to CE approach is expected to remain dominant.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

PBIS contains a set of solutions that simplify integration of new IT artefacts and aid companies in responding to changing business requirements.

“This contained a set of solutions that simplify the integration of new IT artefacts and aid companies in responding to changing business requirements [142].”

• cites [142] Pereira, 2016, Process-based Information Systems: Technological Infrastructure and Development Issues, Procedia Comput. Sci. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

A comprehensive technological infrastructure will involve understanding the technological nutrient within a CE for individual circular approaches and incorporating technological, business, sustainability, and organizational aspects.

“A comprehensive technological infrastructure will involve an understanding of the technological nutrient within a CE for individual circular approaches, as identified in [146], as well as the incorporation of technological, business, sustainability, and organizational aspects which multidisciplinarity can drive.”

• cites [146] Molina-Moreno, V., Leyva-Díaz, J., and Sánchez-Molina, J. (2016). Pellet as a Technological Nutrient within the Circular Economy Model: Comparative Analysis of Combustion Efficiency and CO and NOx Emissions for Pellets from Olive and Almond Trees. Energies, 9. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Lead users (users with experience) will have to be created for high technology products as potential users may not have the experience needed to evaluate or understand the attribute of a new product.

“According to [139], 'lead users' (users with experience) will have to be created for high technology products as potential users may not have the experience needed to evaluate or understand the attribute of a new product.”

• cites [139] 2018, Ownership of personal data in the Internet of Things, Comput. Law Secur. Rev. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Technical breakthroughs in CE-DT integrated areas are likely to come from areas where research is highest.

“Technical breakthroughs in CE-DT integrated areas are likely to come from areas where research is highest.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Technical variation is driven by agents such as academia, industry, government policy-makers, and customer.

“Technical variation is driven by agents such as academia, industry, government policy-makers, and customer.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Within a CE-DT framework, technological infrastructure includes research facilities in academia and industry required for successful CE-I4.0 implementation.

“Within a CE-DT framework, these will include research facilities in academia and industry required for successful CE-I4.0 implementation, as this platform must be assembled, scaled appropriately, documented, and monitored for key improvements [144], which would be enhanced as required.”

• cites [144] DPWorkshop (2018, October 21). Digital Preservation Management: Implementing Short-term Strategies for Long-Term Problems. Available online: http://www.dpworkshop.org/dpm-eng/program/techinf.html.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Technological infrastructure includes distributed IT solutions, ISD methodologies, and functionalities provided by collaborative and workflow technologies that allow organizations to evolve quickly in the face of changing business requirements.

“These include distributed IT solutions, Information Systems Development (ISD) methodologies, and other functionalities provided by collaborative and workflow technologies [142] that will allow organizations to evolve quickly in the face of changing business requirements.”

• cites [142] Pereira, 2016, Process-based Information Systems: Technological Infrastructure and Development Issues, Procedia Comput. Sci. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Key reasons emphasizing the need for known technological infrastructure to support CE-DT integration include turbulent and competitive markets, increasingly complex IT environments, data complexity, and interconnected data networks.

“Key reasons exist which emphasize the need for known technological infrastructure to support CE-DT integration. These include the turbulent and competitive markets [142] which industries and CE stakeholders operate from [140], the increasingly complex IT environment which organizations deal with, data complexity, and interconnected data networks [145].”

• cites [142] Pereira, 2016, Process-based Information Systems: Technological Infrastructure and Development Issues, Procedia Comput. Sci. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [140] Kaplan, 2008, Thinking about technology: Applying a cognitive lens to technical change, Res. Policy sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

• cites [145] Liao, 2008, Leveraging automation and integration to improve manufacturing performance unde certainty, J. Manuf. Technol. Manag. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Adoption and flexibility of I4.0 technologies may be fairly easy across dominant CE approaches.

“Adoption and flexibility of I4.0 technologies may be fairly easy across dominant CE approaches.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Within I4.0, especially in the Internet of Things, data production is essential.

“Within I4.0, especially in the domain of the Internet of Things, data production is essential [139].”

• cites [139] 2018, Ownership of personal data in the Internet of Things, Comput. Law Secur. Rev. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Concepts within I4.0 such as Internet of Things, Additive Manufacturing, Cyber Physical Systems, or Cloud-Based Manufacturing can be inherently disruptive.

“as concepts within I4.0 such as Internet of Things, Additive Manufacturing, Cyber Physical Systems, or Cloud-Based Manufacturing can be inherently disruptive [24].”

• cites [24] Charter, M. (2018). Design for a Circular Economy in Industry 4.0. Designing for the Circular Economy, Routledge. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

'Digital Intelligence', like the CE, experiences the challenge of lack of a concise definition.

“'Digital Intelligence' however, like the CE, experiences the challenge of lack of a concise definition.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Available definitions are unanimous that in practice, digital intelligence must be driven by intelligence, information, algorithms or coding which are not independent from the product or user.

“Available definitions are unanimous in the assertion that in practice, digital intelligence must be driven by intelligence, information, algorithms or coding which are not independent from the product or user.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

A synthesized framework which can enable the transition to a CE would include all identified key stakeholders: academia, industry, policy makers, and end-user.

“Thus, a synthesized framework which can enable the transition to a CE would include all the identified key stakeholders: academia, industry, policy makers, and end-user.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

Digital intelligence is critical for a faster transition to a CE and for enabling an effective CE-I4.0 integration.

“This intelligence is thus critical for a faster transition to a CE and for enabling an effective CE-I4.0 integration.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Several relevant pieces of literature have stressed the need for a research agenda and processes as a critical success factor in any implementation of I4.0 techniques.

“Several relevant pieces of literature have stressed the need for a research agenda and processes as a critical success factor in any implementation of I4.0 techniques [155]”

• cites [155] Schumacher, 2016, A Maturity Model for Assessing Industry 4.0 Readiness and Maturity of Manufacturing Enterprises, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The rise of I4.0 has led to the rapid growth of data volume (Big Data).

“The rise of I4.0 has led to the rapid growth of data volume (hence the term, Big Data) [63].”

• cites [63] Yang, S., Aravind Raghavendra, M.R., Kaminski, J., and Pepin, H. (2018). Opportunities for Industry 4.0 to Support Remanufacturing. Appl. Sci., 8. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Digital intelligence important for an effective CE-I4.0 integration extends beyond the product to intelligence within the technological, economical, cognitive and organization perspective within a CE-I4.0 framework.

“It is also concluded that digital intelligence important for an effective CE-I4.0 integration extends beyond the product but also the intelligence within the technological, economical, cognitive and organization perspective within a CE-I4.0 framework.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The research focused on implementing an SLR on the 9R's.

“The research focused on implementing an SLR on the 9R's, as identified in [64].”

• cites [64] Potting, J., Hekkert, M., Worrell, E., and Hanemaaijer, A. (2017). Circular Economy: Measuring Innovation in the Policy Report.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

This paper presents a synergistic and integrative CE-DT framework utilizing the technology life cycle concept based on results from a systematic literature review of 174 papers.

“This paper presents a synergistic and integrative CE-DT framework utilizing the technology life cycle concept based on results from a systematic literature review of 174 papers.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

Multidisciplinary research in the CE-I4.0 integrated research area is expected to increase results within all CE approaches and bring greater visibility in terms of links between CE strategies and specific digital technologies.

“Multidisciplinary research in the CE-I4.0 integrated research area is expected to increase results within all CE approaches and bring greater visibility in terms of links between CE strategies and specific digital technologies.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

In integrating CE approaches and I4.0 technology with the aim of enabling a CE, the prospects for further confusion on this subject is high.

“In integrating CE approaches and I4.0 technology with the aim of enabling a CE, the prospects for further confusion on this subject is high.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Products are said to be 'digital' when intelligence is directly integrated into the products themselves.

“Following this, products are said to be 'digital' [103] when 'intelligence' are directly integrated into the products itself.”

• cites [103] Koch, 2014, Industry 4.0—Opportunities and challenges of the industrial internet, Strategy PwCNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The research utilized the technology life cycle (TLC) framework in developing an integrative framework for future research.

“The research utilized the technology life cycle (TLC) framework in developing an integrative framework for future research.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

According to [153], 'digital intelligence' lies in the embedded intelligence in the digital device and not in the user.

“However, according to [153] the rise of artificially modified human intelligences and the changes brought about by ICTs suggests that 'digital intelligence' lies in the embedded intelligence in the digital device and not in the user.”

• cites [153] 2017, Artificial Intelligence, Cybercities and Technosocieties, Minds Mach. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

TLC has been highlighted in literature as 'confused' and incomplete, a misunderstanding attributed to similarities between industry life cycle, product life cycle, and technology life cycle.

“Furthermore, TLC has been highlighted in literature as 'confused' and incomplete' [107], a misunderstanding which has been attributed to the similarities between the terms ' industry life cycle ', ' product life cycle ', and ' technology life cycle '.”

• cites [107] Taylor, 2012, The technology life cycle: Conceptualization and managerial implications, Int. J. Prod. Econ. sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The concepts of 'digital intelligence' and 'digital technologies' have been observed to be used interchangeably in research.

“Hence the concepts of 'digital intelligence' and 'digital technologies' have been observed to be used interchangeably in research [57].”

• cites [57] Pagoropoulos, 2017, The Emergent Role of Digital Technologies in the Circular Economy: A Review, Procedia CIRP sourceNot checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.