Al Ions Research Articles

Cr-induced structural phase transformation in sputter deposited poly-AlN thin film from wurtzite to rocksalt structure and their effect on the optical properties

We report Cr doping-induced structural phase transformation (PT) in sputter-deposited polycrystalline-AlN thin film from wurtzite (w) to rocksalt (r) structure. Rietveld analysis shows that the steady substitution of Al ions by Cr ions in the w-AlN lattice distorts and compresses the wurtzite lattice along the c-axis. The chemical pressure exerted in the w-AlN lattice by the compression from the doped Cr ions causes the PT, similar to the high-pressure-induced PT in AlN. Post the PT, the r-Al1-xCrxN thin film continues to exhibit compressive residual stress, indicating that such sustained stress may also play a role in stabilizing the metastable r-Al1-xCrxN phase. The structural distortion and the PT also affected the optical absorption characteristics of the w-Al1-xCrxN thin films. The w-Al1-xCrxN exhibit a direct inter-band transition and the band gap (Eg) decreases from ∼ 6.06 eV for pure w-AlN to ∼ 4.15 eV for w-Al0.73Cr0.27N. After the PT, the r-Al0.61Cr0.39N thin film, on the other hand, exhibits an indirect inter-band transition with an Eg of ∼ 1.84 eV. In addition to the change in Eg, a prominent defect band appears at ∼ 4 eV at low Cr% and another band appears at ∼ 0.98 eV at higher Cr%.

The removal of elemental aluminium and its ions using some heteroatom-decorated graphitic carbonitride nanosheets: a DFT study

ABSTRACT In this work, we have investigated the possibility of adsorption and removal of both metallic aluminium (Al (0)) and Al (III) ions from the environment by applying some heteroatom-doped graphitic carbonitrides (g-C3N4). Due to the recent reports about the toxicity of Al atom and its intervention in a wide range of diseases like Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis (MS), removal of this element from the environment is crucial both because of health and environmental sciences. Therefore, this work focuses on the investigation of the potentials of g-C3N4 and its derivatives for the elimination of Al ions from the environment. According to the results, the considerable difference between the values of ΔEg of g-C3N4O-Al (0) (ΔEg = −3.16534 eV) and g-C3N4O-Al (III) (ΔEg = −0.40407 eV) could lead this nanosheet to be able to recognise the Al (0) from Al (III) ion. Thus, opposite to the pristine nanosheet, the g-C3N4O segment could be a suitable sensor for the detection of elemental and ionic Al. The same results have been observed for g-C3N4S.

Chemically modified graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets for the selective turn-off fluorescence detection of Al(III) ions in crabs (Brachyura).

The selective and sensitive detection of Al(III) is critically important for human health since the level of Al(III) is an indicator of many diseases in humans. Herein, we developed a simple and sensitive fluorescent sensor for the detection of Al(III) in an aqueous solution based on the fluorescence of hydroxyl-functionalized graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (HO/g-CN). OH/g-CN nanosheets were synthesized via the thermal pyrolysis of 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine (as raw material) at 550 °C for 2 hours, followed by thermal alkali treatment at 730 °C for 2 min. The fluorescence of HO/g-CN at 377 nm (at 290 nm excitation) can be quenched by Al(III) effectively and selectively, and the linear relationship between the concentration of Al(III) and fluorescence intensity is in the range of 1.85-14.82 μM with a detection limit of 0.272 μM. The fluorescence turn-off effect of the Al(III) ion on the prepared HO/g-CN nanosheets could be attributed to the presence of oxygen- and nitrogen-containing functional groups on the surface of HO/g-CN that have chelating interactions with Al(III), leading to quenching. The surface functional groups of OH/g-CN were confirmed using different characterization techniques (FTIR, EDX, and XPS). Moreover, the prepared HO/g-CN exhibited remarkable long-term fluorescence stability in water (>30 days) and minimal toxicity. Importantly, a prepared novel fluorescent sensor (HO/g-CN) was successfully applied for the detection and determination of Al(III) in commercially available crab (Brachyura) samples.

Preparation of poly(5‐ferrocenyl‐dipyrromethane) as sensor for electrochemical removal of aluminum and barium ions in real water samples

In this work, 5‐ferrocenyl‐dipyrromethane (Fc‐DPM) synthesized from the pyrrole and ferrocenecarboxaldehyde condensation was electrochemically deposited on a gold (Au) electrode and used to remove metal ions found in rural waters. The structural analysis of Fc‐DPM was recorded by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. The Fc‐DPM was electrochemically coated on an indium tin oxide‐polyethylene terephthalate (ITO‐PET) surface, and the resulting Fc‐DPM/ITO‐PET was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)–energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis. The heavy metal and mineral content of four real water samples from the same rural area were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) before and after electrochemical removal. The proposed Fc‐DPM/Au electrode was successfully applied for aluminum ion (Al3+) and barium ion (Ba2+) removal for the first time, and the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated as 0.003 and 0.217 ppb for Ba2+ and Al3+, respectively.

A dual-layer solid electrolyte interphase enhances interfacial chemistry stability in aqueous aluminium metal batteries

Aqueous aluminum metal batteries (AAMBs) have garnered significant attention owing to the abundance of aluminum, high volumetric energy density (8040 mAh cm−3, approximately four times that of lithium metal anodes), and chemical inertness. However, profound issues such as surface corrosion and the side reaction of hydrogen evolution severely impede the advancement of AAMBs. Here, we report the in-situ formation of a dense inorganic AlF3 + Al/Zn-CO3 + flexible carbon shell solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) on the surface of an Al electrode through hydrothermal and electrochemical activation in a dilute aqueous solution of Al(OTf)3-Zn(NO3)2. Experimental evidence demonstrates that the electrically insulating Al/Zn-NO3 layer initially forms on the Al negative electrode surface through self-polymerization reactions of Al with Zn2+ and NO3– under sealed heating conditions. Subsequent electrochemical activation leads to the decomposition of CF3SO3- to form conductive AlF3 + Al/Zn-CO3, while in situ generation of a flexible carbon layer occurs internally on the surface. The inorganic inner layer facilitates the diffusion of Al ions, while the organic carbon shell suppresses water permeation and maintains the stability of the SEI structure. The in-situ formed SEI enables the Al//Ti battery to achieve a high Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 98.9 % over 100 cycles. Constructing the Al//β-MnO2 battery yields a high energy density of 216 Wh kg−1, with the capacity retention remaining stable at 83.6 % after 700 cycles.

Mononuclear Aluminum Complexes as Precursors for Cyanosilylation of Carbonyl Compounds

AbstractThe synthesis, structural characterization, and catalytic application of two novel aluminum complexes, [κ3ENSe−{Ph2P(E)N−C6H4−SePh}AlMe2] [E=S (1) and Se (2)] supported by new pincer‐type phenylselenium‐phosphanamidinate chalcogenide ligands are described. The molecular structures of both complexes in their solid states reveal a distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry around the Al(III) ion, involving monoanionic ligand {Ph2P(E)N−C6H4−SePh}− bonded to the AlMe2‐motif in a tridentate manner. Complex 1 was found to be an effective pre‐catalyst for the cyanosilyation of aldehydes and ketones with TMSCN under solvent‐free conditions. The reaction protocol is simple, efficient, and has a diverse substrate scope of aldehydes and ketones, showing superior functional group tolerance. The kinetic study revealed that ketone reduction proceeded with first‐order dependence on ketone concentrations, TMSCN, and catalyst 1.

Study on the magnetic properties and critical behavior of CoFe2−x Al x O4 (x = 1.0 and 1.2) spinel ferrite

Abstract We have examined the behavior of CoFe2−x Al x O4 (x = 1.0 and 1.2) ferrite close to the transition from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic phases (T C). The findings indicate that at a temperature of T C = 314 K (x = 1.0) and T C = 224 K (x = 1.2), there is a second order magnetic phase transition. We used various methods, including modified Arrott plot, Kouvel–Fisher method, and critical isotherm analysis, to determine the critical exponents which were found to be similar to those expected for the Tricritical Mean-field model (β = 0.288, γ = 1.057, and δ = 4.665) for the x = 1.0 sample. The critical exponents for the x = 1.2 sample (β = 0.771, γ = 1.081, and δ = 2.403) belonged to a different universality class. These results suggest that the replacement of Fe ions with non-magnetic Al ions decreases the Co–Fe, Fe–Fe, Co–Co interaction sites in the CoFe2O4 spinel ferrite, increasing magnetic disorder.

Unveiling the fate of metal leaching in bimetal-catalyzed Fenton-like systems: pivotal role of aqueous matrices and machine learning prediction

Metal-based catalytic materials exhibit exceptional properties in degrading emerging pollutants within Fenton-like systems. However, the potential risk of metal leaching has become pressing environmental concern. This study addressed scientific issues pertaining to the leaching behavior and control strategies for metal-based catalytic materials. Innovative cobalt-aluminum hydrotalcite (CoAl-LDH) triggered peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation system was constructed and achieved near-complete removal of Ciprofloxacin (CIP) across diverse water quality environments. Notably, it was found that the tunable ion exchange and Al3+ stabilization of CoAl-LDH occurred due to the particularity of neutral water quality, resulting in significantly lower Co2+ leaching levels (0.321 mg/L) compared to acidic conditions (5.103 mg/L). In light of this, machine learning technology was then employed for the first time to simulate the dynamic trend of Co2+ leaching and elucidated the critical regulatory roles and mechanisms of Al3+, aqueous matrix, and reaction rate. Furthermore, degradation systems based on different water quality and metal leaching levels regulated the generation levels of SO4.- and O2∙-, and the unique advantages of free radical attack paths were clarified through CIP degradation products and ecotoxicity analysis. These findings introduced novel insights and approaches for engineering application and pollution control in metal-based Fenton-like water treatment.

Aluminum doped CuS nanocrystals for efficient antibacterial activity via photothermal and photodynamic pathways

The overuse of antibiotics has led to the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, presenting a significant risk to public health and human well-being. A novel antibacterial material with safe and effective antibacterial properties is a viable strategy to address these issues. In this work, Al ions doped CuS particles (CuS@Al) with a flower-like nanostructure were synthesized through a simple hydrothermal method, exhibiting good photothermal and photodynamic antibacterial properties. The morphological, microstructural and crystallinity of CuS@Al were evaluated by SEM, EDS, TEM, FTIR, XRD and XPS analyses. The introduction of Al ions significantly enhanced the photothermal effects of CuS@Al, and the temperature increased from 50.7 ℃ (CuS) to 58.1 ℃ (CuS-6) under irradiation (808 nm, 2.0 W·cm−2, 10 min). The resulting CuS@Al exhibited a good photothermal conversion efficiency, effective release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and remarkable photothermal antibacterial activity. Both E. coli and S. aureus were completely inactivated by CuS@Al (0.5 mg/mL) under photodynamic conditions. The synthesis of CuS@Al provides a strategy for creating highly effective antibacterial materials in particulate form.

Preparation and Properties of Composite Double-Network Gel for Inhibiting Coal Spontaneous Combustion.

In order to improve the inhibition effect of gel on coal spontaneous combustion, a chitosan (CS)/polyacrylamide (PAM)/metal ion (Al3+) composite double-network gel was developed in this study. The optimum formula of the composite double-network gel was determined using orthogonal experimentation. The microstructure, water retention, compressibility, and anti-destruction properties of the composite double-network gel were analyzed. The inhibition effect of the composite double-network gel on coal spontaneous combustion was studied via infrared spectroscopy and a synchronous thermal analyzer from the micro and macro perspectives. The results show that the composite double-network gel has a denser interpenetrating double-network structure and a larger void ratio than the ordinary gel. The water retention rate was 55% after standing at 150 °C for 12 h. The deformation memory ratio of the composite double-network gel was 78%, which was 26.8% higher than that of the ordinary gel, and the compressive strength also increased by 59.96%. In addition, the critical temperature point and the maximum thermal weight-loss rate temperature point decreased by 7.01 °C and 39.62 °C, respectively, and the composite double-network gel effectively reduced active functional groups in the treated coal sample, such as hydroxyl and aliphatic hydrocarbons. In this study, a CS/PAM/Al3+ composite double-network gel was produced, which exhibited good gel performance and inhibition effects, with physical effects such as the covering, wetting, and cementation of coal.

Integrated Transcriptome and Metabolome to Elucidate the Mechanism of Aluminum-Induced Blue-Turning of Hydrangea Sepals

Hydrangea macrophylla is an ornamental plant with varied calyx colors. Interestingly, from red, to purple, to blue, the colors of all Hydrangea macrophylla are formed by unique delphinidin-3-O-glucoside and aluminum ions (Al3+) and 5-O-p-coumaroylquinic acid. The sepals of ‘Blue Mama’ changed from pink to blue, and the contents of delphinidin-3-O-glucoside and aluminum ions increased under 3 g/L aluminum sulfate treatment. However, the mechanism of the effect of aluminum ions on the synthesis and metabolism of anthocyanins in Hydrangea macrophylla is still unclear. In this project, transcriptome sequencing and anthocyanin metabolome analysis were performed on the sepals of ‘Blue Mama’ during flower development at the bud stage (S1), discoloration stage (S2) and full-bloom stage (S3) under aluminum treatment. It was found that delphinidin, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside and delphinidin-3-O-galactoside were the main differential metabolites. The structural genes CHS, F3H, ANS, DFR and BZI in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway were up-regulated with the deepening in sepal color. There was no significant difference between the aluminum treatment and the non-aluminum treatment groups. However, seven transcription factors were up-regulated and expressed to regulate anthocyanin synthesis genes CHS, F3H, BZI and 4CL, promoting the sepals to turn blue. The KEGG enrichment pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes showed that the glutathione metabolism and the ABC transporter pathway were closely related to anthocyanin synthesis and aluminum-ion transport. GST (Hma1.2p1_0158F.1_g069560.gene) may be involved in the vacuolar transport of anthocyanins. The expression of anthocyanin transporter genes ABCC1 (Hma1.2p1_0021F.1_g014400.gene), ABCC2 (Hma1.2p1_0491F.1_g164450.gene) and aluminum transporter gene ALS3 (Hma1.2p1_0111F.1_g053440.gene) were significantly up-regulated in the aluminum treatment group, which may be an important reason for promoting the transport of anthocyanin and aluminum ions to vacuoles and making the sepals blue. These results preliminarily clarified the mechanism of aluminum ion in the synthesis and transport of anthocyanin in Hydrangea macrophylla, laying a foundation for the further study of the formation mechanism of ‘blue complex’ in Hydrangea macrophylla.

A flexible glucose biosensor modified by reduced-swelling and conductive zwitterionic hydrogel enzyme membrane.

This paper reports a flexible glucose biosensor which is modified by a reduced-swelling and conductive zwitterionic hydrogel enzyme membrane that contains two forms of chemical cross-links. One chemical cross-linking is induced by thermal initiators and forms the basal network of the hydrogel. Another cross-linking is achieved by the coordination interactions between the multivalent metal ion Al3+ and anionic group -COO- of zwitterionic poly-carboxy betaine (pCBMA), which significantly increase the cross-linking density of the zwitterionic hydrogel, improving the reduced-swelling property and reducing the pore size. The better reduced-swelling property and reduced diameters of pores within the zwitterionic hydrogel make less glucose oxidase (GOx) leakage, thus significantly improving the enzyme membrane's service life. By introducing the Al3+ and Cl-, the conductivity of the zwitterionic hydrogel is enhanced approximately 10.4-fold. According to the enhanced conductivity, the reduced-swelling property, and the high GOx loading capacity of the zwitterionic hydrogel, the sensitivity of the biosensor with GOx/pCBMA-Al3+ is significantly improved by 5 times and has a long service life. Finally, the proposed GOx/pCBMA-Al3+ biosensor was applied in non-invasive blood glucose detection on the human body, verifying the capability in practice.

Fabrication and characterization of Ti-12Mo/xAl2O3 bio-inert composite for dental prosthetic applications.

Introduction: Titanium (Ti)-molybdenum(Mo) composites reinforced with ceramic nanoparticles have recently significant interest among researchers as a new type of bio-inert material used for dental prosthetic applications due to its biocompatibility, outstanding physical, mechanical and corrosion properties. The current work investigates the impact of alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles on the properties of the Ti-12Mo composite, including microstructure, density, hardness, wear resistance, and electrochemical behavior. Methods: Ti-12Mo/xAl2O3 nanocomposites reinforced with different Al2O3 nanoparticles content were prepared. The composition of each sample was adjusted through the mechanical milling of the elemental constituents of the sample for 24h under an argon atmosphere. The produced nanocomposite powders were then cold-pressed at 600 MPa and sintered at different temperatures (1,350°C, 1,450°C, and 1,500°C) for 90min. Based on density measurements using the Archimedes method, the most suitable sintering temperature was found to be 1,450°C. The morphology and chemical composition of the milled and sintered composites were analyzed using back-scattering scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results and Discussion: The results showed that the addition of Mo increased the Ti density from 99.11% to 99.46%, while the incorporation of 15wt% Al2O3 in the Ti-12Mo composite decreased the density to 97.28%. Furthermore, the Vickers hardness and wear behavior of the Ti-Mo composite were enhanced with the addition of up to 5 wt% Al2O3. The sample contains 5 wt% Al2O3 exhibited a Vickers hardness of 593.4HV, compared to 320HV for pure Ti, and demonstrated the lowest wear rate of 0.0367mg/min, compared to 0.307mg/min for pure Ti. Electrochemical investigations revealed that the sintered Ti-12Mo/xAl2O3 nanocomposites displayed higher corrosion resistance against a simulated artificial saliva (AS) solution than pure Ti. The concentrations of Ti, Mo, and Al ions released from the Ti-12Mo/xAl2O3 nanocomposites in the AS solution were within the safe levels. It was found from this study that; the sample of the composition Ti-12Mo/5wt%Al2O3 exhibited appropriate mechanical properties, biocompatibility, corrosion resistance against the AS solution with acceptable ion concentration released in the biological fluids. Therefore, it can be considered as a new bio-inert material for potential applications in dental prosthetics.

A Multiscale Simulation on Aluminum Ion Implantation-Induced Defects in 4H-SiC MOSFETs

Aluminum (Al) ion implantation is one of the most important technologies in SiC device manufacturing processes due to its ability to produce the p-type doping effect, which is essential to building p–n junctions and blocking high voltages. However, besides the doping effect, defects are also probably induced by the implantation. Here, the impacts of Al ion implantation-induced defects on 4H-SiC MOSFET channel transport behaviors are studied using a multiscale simulation flow, including the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, density functional theory (DFT) calculation, and tight-binding (TB) model-based quantum transport simulation. The simulation results show that an Al ion can not only replace a Si lattice site to realize the p-doping effect, but it can also replace the C lattice site to induce mid-gap trap levels or become an interstitial to induce the n-doping effect. Moreover, the implantation tends to bring additional point defects to the 4H-SiC body region near the Al ions, which will lead to more complicated coupling effects between them, such as degrading the p-type doping effect by trapping free hole carriers and inducing new trap states at the 4H-SiC bandgap. The quantum transport simulations indicate that these coupling effects will impede local electron transports, compensating for the doping effect and increasing the leakage current of the 4H-SiC MOSFET. In this study, the complicated coupling effects between the implanted Al ions and the implantation-induced point defects are revealed, which provides new references for experiments to increase the accepter activation rate and restrain the defect effect in SiC devices.

Ligand-Induced Red-Emitting Copper Nanoclusters for Selective Fluorescence Determination of Aluminum Ions.

Monitoring levels of excessive aluminum ions (Al3+) is crucial as it can harm the immune system, reduce enzyme activity, cause cell death, and damage environmental and biological systems. Developing a fast and efficient Al3+ ion determination method is the key to addressing this issue. In this work, red-emitting fluorescent copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) were synthesized using N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) as a ligand and CuCl2·2H2O through a facile procedure. The NAC-CuNCs exhibited a large Stokes shift and displayed remarkable luminescence properties. A method for detecting Al3+ through a fluorescence probe was proposed. Its fluorescence mechanism was also explored. The probe showed rapid responsiveness (within 1 min) to Al3+ ion determination. The detection limit for Al3+ was found to be 19.7 nM, which is significantly lower than the WHO's value and most reports, with a linear range of 0-52.9 μM. The determination of Al3+ concentrations in actual water using the fluorescence probe yielded satisfactory outcomes. Moreover, the visual detection of Al3+ ions was also achieved through a smartphone, which can enhance its fast and practical detection.

Enhanced Co3O4 Nanoflakes Reactivity via Integrated Al-Doping and Metal Vacancy Engineering for Large Capacity Li-CO2 Batteries

Rechargeable Li-CO2 batteries are well-regarded for their high-energy, environmental friendliness, and resourceful use of CO2, but suffer from poor cycle reversibility. Herein, Al-doped Co3O4 nanoflakes featuring abundant metal vacancies (V-ACO/CC) were synthesized via a facile approach employing Al ions as both a dopant and sacrificial agents, which serve as high-efficient cathode catalyst for Li-CO2 batteries. Experiment results demonstrate that the incorporation of Al doping and metal vacancies modulates the electronic structure of Co-center and optimizes the growth path of discharge product. The cation vacancies generated by the sacrificed part of the Al atoms change the local charge distribution, strengthen the affinity of CO2 and reaction intermediates and facilitate the reversible decomposition of discharge products. Concurrently, the formation of covalent Al-O bonds by the remaining Al species reinforces the stability of nanostructures. Notably, the V-ACO/CC-based LCBs exhibit enhanced CO2 conversion kinetics, as evidenced by a high specific capacity (12.06 mAh cm−2 at 0.05 mA cm−2), fast rate capability and impressive stability (over 420 cycles under 0.1 mA cm−2).

Influence of the chemical composition of leachates on the results of ecotoxicity tests for different slag types

In this study, four ecotoxicological tests on Vibrio fischeri bacteria, Sinapis alba L. (white mustard), Daphnia magna S. (daphnia's) and earthworms were performed for three types of aqueous slag (ladle, blast furnace and converter) leachates with two-grain sizes (<4 mm, <10 mm). Concentrations of toxic elements and concentrations of Cr(VI), Ca, Na, Al, and other ions were determined. The raw slags were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRFS), and major substances were determined by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The aqueous slag leachates passed ecotoxicological tests and met the required criteria, showing no toxicity to Vibrio fischeri and complying with white mustard test criteria. According to the results of the ecotoxicity tests with daphnia, the blast furnace slag samples were not ecotoxic, while two other slag samples were found to be entirely compliant. Characterization of the slags showed that the effect of element/ion leachability and slag grain size is essential. Biplot principal component analysis (PCA) showed that grain size does not significantly affect the separation of individuals on the plane. A positive correlation on toxicity was found with pH, conductivity, calcium content, dissolved content, salinity and fluoride concentration, whereas a negative correlation was found with magnesium concentration, dissolved organic carbon and potassium concentration. The effective concentration at 50% inhibition (EC50) value for Vibrio fischeri correlated with the first dimension of bivariate assessment. In summary, it was found that the investigated slags can be effectively reused as they comply with regulations and do not endanger the environment.

OsAlR3 regulates aluminum tolerance through promoting the secretion of organic acids and the expression of antioxidant genes in rice

In acidic soils, aluminum (Al) toxicity inhibits the growth and development of plant roots and affects nutrient and water absorption, leading to reduced yield and quality. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate and identify candidate genes for Al tolerance and elucidate their physiological and molecular mechanisms under Al stress. In this study, we identified a new gene OsAlR3 regulating Al tolerance, and analyzed its mechanism from physiological, transcriptional and metabolic levels. Compared with the WT, malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content were significantly increased, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and citric acid (CA) content were significantly decreased in the osalr3 mutant lines when exposed to Al stress. Under Al stress, the osalr3 exhibited decreased expression of antioxidant-related genes and lower organic acid content compared with WT. Integrated transcriptome and metabolome analysis showed the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway plays an important role in OsAlR3-mediated Al tolerance. Exogenous CA and oxalic acid (OA) could increase total root length and enhance the antioxidant capacity in the mutant lines under Al stress. Conclusively, we found a new gene OsAlR3 that positively regulates Al tolerance by promoting the chelation of Al ions through the secretion of organic acids, and increasing the expression of antioxidant genes.

Enhancing flame retardant wood’s versatility and adjustable properties through multi-scale micro-coating strategy

Wood, a naturally renewable material with a porous structure and breathability, rendering it a green construction material that can absorb sound, isolate heat and regulate moisture. Efforts to enhance wood’s resistance to combustion while maintaining its porous nature are hindered by the potential impact of physical and chemical treatments on its porous structure, posing a challenge in achieving flame-retardant wood that retains its breathability. Inspired by the multi-layer coating decoration method used on walls of various rooms in frame structure buildings, the study applies multi-scale micro-coating strategy to the multi-scale microstructure of wood. This strategy applied polyamino polyether methylene phosphonate (PAP), metal ions (Al3+/ Mg2+/ Ca2+), and alkali solutions to create a persistent multifunctional protective coating for the multi-scale wood structure. This coating effectively preserved the wood’s vessel, ray tissue, cell cavity, and pit structure, protecting its permeability. The modified wood demonstrated an increased limited oxygen value from 19.7 % to 38.4 % and a 55.9 % decrease in the total smoke release compared to natural wood, obtaining high fire safety. Furthermore, the modified wood exhibited adjustable antibacterial, photoaging-resistant and corrosion resistance properties depends on the type of metal. This strategy demonstrated proven reliability, versatility, and durability in the treatment of various metal ions, enabling the production of functional wood with tailored properties.

γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) priming alleviates acid-aluminum toxicity to roots of creeping bentgrass via enhancements in antioxidant defense and organic metabolites remodeling.

γ-Aminobutyric acid alleviates acid-aluminum toxicity to roots associated with enhanced antioxidant metabolismas well asaccumulation and transportation of citric and malic acids. Aluminum (Al) toxicity has become the main limiting factor for crop growth and development in acidic soils and is further being aggravated worldwide due to continuous industrial pollution. The current study was designed to examine effects of GABA priming on alleviating acid-Al toxicity in terms of root growth, antioxidant defense, citrate and malate metabolisms, and extensive metabolites remodeling in roots under acidic conditions. Thirty-seven-day-old creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) plants were used as test materials. Roots priming with or without 0.5mM GABA for 3days were cultivated in standard nutrient solution for 15days as control or subjected to nutrient solution containing 5mM AlCl3·6H2O for 15days as acid-Al stress treatment. Roots were sampled for determinations of root characteristics, physiological andbiochemical parameters, and metabolomics. GABA priming significantly alleviated acid-Al-induced root growth inhibition and oxidative damage, despite it promoted the accumulation of Al in roots. Analysis of metabolomics showed that GABA priming significantly increased accumulations of organic acids, amino acids, carbohydrates, and other metabolites in roots under acid-Al stress. In addition, GABA priming also significantly up-regulated key genes related to accumulation and transportation ofmalic and citric acids in roots under acid-Al stress. GABA-regulated metabolites participated in tricarboxylic acid cycle, GABA shunt, antioxidant defense system, and lipid metabolism, which played positive roles in reactive oxygen species scavenging, energy conversion, osmotic adjustment, and Al ion chelation in roots.