Innovative membrane engineering: Polyphenylsulfone/silver-doped zinc oxide for high-efficiency protein rejection

Carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) laminates, particularly CF/PEI systems, are emerging as a transformative and sustainable alternative to conventional thermosets, lauded for their inherent recyclability and exceptional intrinsic properties. To truly unlock their full potential and accelerate their adoption in demanding applications, we have developed a pioneering, facile, and remarkably rapid microwave-assisted methodology for the direct growth of uniform zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoflakes onto carbon fibers. This innovative surface engineering yields an optimized ZnO-CF/PEI laminate that, remarkably, requires just 3 minutes of microwave treatment to achieve extraordinary performance gains. Our results demonstrate a significant and simultaneous enhancement in mechanical strength: a striking 21% increase in interlaminar shear strength, a robust 17% increase in flexural strength, and a substantial 22% increase in storage modulus. This impressive mechanical uplift is directly attributed to the dramatically enhanced interfacial bonding facilitated by the integrated ZnO nanoflakes. Beyond structural integrity, the homogeneously integrated ZnO layer confers exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of -48 dB, a crucial functional property achieved through amplified reflection and scattering. This work thus presents a straightforward yet profoundly effective strategy to concurrently boost both the mechanical and EMI shielding performance of high-performance thermoplastic composites, directly paving the way for their accelerated deployment in advanced, multifunctional aerospace and industrial applications.

The demand for sustainable energy sources to power small electronics like IoT devices has led to exploring innovative solutions like acoustic energy harvesting using piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs). Acoustic energy harvesting leverages ambient noise, converting it into electrical energy through the piezoelectric effect, where certain materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress or vibrations. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements in PENG technology, emphasizing their role in acoustic energy harvesting. We begin by discussing the essential principles of piezoelectricity and the design considerations for nanogenerators to optimize energy capture from sound waves. The discussion includes a detailed examination of various piezoelectric materials, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), lead zirconate titanate (PZT), and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires, which are known for their superior piezoelectric properties. A critical aspect of this review is the exploration of innovative structural designs and resonance devices that enhance the efficiency of PENGs. We delve into the mechanisms and benefits of using Helmholtz resonators, quarter-wavelength tubes, and cantilever beams, which are instrumental in amplifying acoustic signals and improving energy conversion rates. Each device’s design parameters and operational principles are scrutinized to highlight their contributions to the field. The review addresses practical applications of PENGs in various domains. Environmental monitoring systems, wearable electronics, and medical devices stand to benefit significantly from the continuous and sustainable power supplied by PENGs. These applications can reduce reliance on batteries and minimize maintenance by harnessing ambient acoustic energy, leading to more efficient and longer-lasting operations. Despite the promising potential of PENGs, several challenges remain, including material degradation, efficiency limitations, and integrating these devices into existing technological frameworks. This paper discusses these obstacles in detail and proposes potential solutions to enhance the longevity and performance of PENG systems. Innovations in material science and engineering are crucial to overcoming these hurdles and realizing the full potential of acoustic energy harvesting.

Biodegradable cellulose acetate (CA) membranes were prepared via phase inversion induced by immersion precipitation method. Acetic acid and deionized water were used as solvent and non‐solvent, respectively. The modifying effect of gelatin and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles additives was investigated on the membranes in terms of water flux, protein rejection percentage, and fouling ability during two hours of bovine serum albumin separation from aqueous solution. Specimens were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile test, contact angle technique, and porosity measurement. The incorporation of gelatin and ZnO nanoparticles into the CA matrix increased the porosity coefficient and hydrophilicity. Moreover, gelatin improved the tensile properties of the membrane.

Synergistic photocatalytic stabilization: Biohybrid lignin-ZnO nanocomposites for enhanced UV protection of octocrylene and avobenzone systems.