3-aminopropyl Trimethoxysilane Research Articles

Development of Titanium Dioxide Coating for Self-Cleaning Photovoltaic Panels

Amid escalating global energy demands and environmental concerns, the transition to renewable sources like solar power is imperative. Despite the advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology promising increased efficiency, soiling on PV panels—composed of dust, bird droppings, and contaminants—poses a significant challenge, obstructing sunlight and reducing energy conversion efficiency. Building upon existing research on titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle coatings, our study investigates their super-hydrophilic and anti-soiling characteristics to enhance self-cleaning capabilities in solar applications. Furthermore, our research investigates the application of (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxy silane as an interlayer to reinforce the adherence of the TiO2 coating to PV panel glass, thereby enhancing its durability. Preliminary results highlight the coating’s exceptional super-hydrophilic properties, with water contact angle measurements less than 10°, indicative of TiO2’s strong water affinity. Spectrophotometer measurements show that the developed coating maintains high optical transmittances for the wavelength range from 350 to 800 nm, which is the most crucial factor for energy conversion in solar panels. Our contributions aim to advance solar energy technologies and support the shift towards more sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the role of innovative materials science in addressing solar power’s operational challenges.

Superior hydrophobicity of pomelo peel film: Impact of silane integration

This study aimed to develop a film from pomelo peel (PP) to enhance its hydrophobic properties for potential use as a hydrophobic laminated layer in single-use packaging applications. The optimal ratio of 2 % PP and 4 % glycerol of PP weight film yielded the most favorable mechanical properties for the film, as demonstrated by the maximum tensile strength recorded at 11.36 ± 1.54 MPa and a Young's modulus of 143.75 MPa. Additionally, the film was further enhanced by incorporating various additives, including maleic anhydride, lignin, N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AEAPTMS), and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS), at concentrations of 1 % and 3 % (w/w) to the PP powder. The additives were incorporated into the bulk solution to form a dispersion during the film grafting process. Notably, the addition of 1 % AEAPTMS achieved the highest water contact angle (123°) and the slowest rate of water absorption. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed that the increased hydrophobicity was due to the reduced presence of O–H functional groups available for water interaction. TGA and DTG confirmed the interaction between the additives and the PP film. SEM/EDS images revealed a surface and cross-section with a smooth, glossy, concrete-like appearance when lignin and both silane supplements were present. Adding 1 % AEAPTMS to the base pomelo peel film proved to be the most effective and straightforward method for enhancing hydrophobicity without sacrificing the film’s mechanical strength.

Enhanced proton transfer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells via novel nanocomposite membrane incorporating (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane-graphene oxide and basic amino ligands: A synergistic acid-base approach

A nanocomposite polymer electrolyte membrane (MGC) was synthesized by blending MPTS (HS(CH2)3Si(OCH3)3) and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets at varying weight ratios (91.5 to 9.5, respectively) for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) applications. By covalently modifying the GO support with MPTS through a silane modification process, the acidic MGC matrix is formed. The blending process, with ultrasonication and vigorous stirring, initiates two significant reactions in reactive MPTS: first, the conversion of methoxy groups (Si–OCH3) to silanols (Si-OH); second, the potential condensation of silanol groups to form siloxane bonds (Si–O–Si), followed by oxidation of sulfhydryl groups to sulfonic acid (-SO3H) groups by hydrogen peroxide. The resulting -SO3H groups connected to the siloxane network (Si-O-Si) adjacent to the GO. Two basic amino ligands – dopamine, and aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APTES) were incorporated into the MGC matrix to establish acid-base pairs, promoting swift proton transport. These additions, at weight ratios of (0.5, 1, 2, and 7) wt%, synergistically contributed to the MGC matrix, forming effective proton channels. Various analytical techniques, including field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), were employed to assess the impact of functionalized basic amino groups on the MGC matrix. Notably, the MGC membrane containing 2 wt% of PDA as basic amino ligands exhibited optimal performance, showcasing an in-plane proton conductivity of 115.10 mS cm-1 under fully hydrated conditions at 90 °C, and the maximum power density (MPD) of 170.74 mW cm-2 with a current density of 1051.46 mA cm-2 at 60 °C and 100 % relative humidity (RH). In contrast, the MGC membrane, devoid of amino ligands, exhibited a comparatively low in-plane conductivity of 44.32 mS cm⁻¹ under identical conditions at 90 °C. Additionally, it recorded the MPD of 48.5 mW cm⁻², corresponding to a current density of 313.25 mA cm⁻² at 60 °C and 100 % RH. This study introduces an innovative approach for developing high-performance nanocomposite membranes for PEMs and related applications.

Enhancing Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Rigid Polyurethane Foam with Eco-friendly Silane-modified Cellulose Nanocrystals

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) are promising candidates for strengthening polymeric matrices, offering unique features like biodegradability, renewability, and exceptional mechanical properties. However, efficiently dispersing CNC in these matrices and finely adjusting their interfacial characteristics are critical for harnessing their full potential in novel nanomaterial development. Herein, we developed novel eco-friendly and effective method to modify the surface of the CNC with three types of silane coupling agents – (3-Aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APTMS), N-ethyl-2,2-dimethoxy-4-methyl-1-aza-2-silacyclopentane (ASCP1), and N-(2-aminoethyl)-2,2,4-trimethyl-1-aza-2-silacyclopentane (ASCP2) by using chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The sustainable rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) were then prepared by incorporating three modified CNCs (CNC-APTMS, CNC-ASCP1, and CNC-ASCP2) from 0.5 to 5wt.%. Afterward, the influence of these three modified CNCs with increasing content on the morphology, thermal, and compressive properties of RPUFs was examined. It was observed that the RPUFs containing 0.5wt.% and 1wt.% of CNC-ASCP2 exhibited a lower thermal conductivity (0.043 ± 0.002 and 0.045 ± 0.001W/m·K, respectively) compared to standard RPUF sample (0.049 ± 0.005W/m·K). Furthermore, these foams also showed enhanced compressive strength (1.96 ± 0.08 and 2.03 ± 0.5MPa) in comparison to the standard RPUF sample (1.25 ± 0.09MPa). This improvement in thermal and compressive properties is attributed to the better compatibility of CNC-ASCP2 with polyol and foam components, promoting efficient nucleation of cells and uniform dispersion within the foam.

Detection of Hydrogen Ions Resulting from the Inhibition of Acetylcholinesterase Using Indium Tin Oxide-Coated Nanostructures for Pesticide Sensing

The neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) is hydrolyzed by acetylcholinesterase (AChE) into acetic acid and choline to terminate synaptic transmission (1). Organophosphorus (OPs) found in pesticides induce toxicity in organisms by irreversibly binding to AChE, leading to the phosphorylation of the serine residue at the active site. ACh cannot undergo hydrolysis by the phosphorylated enzyme, resulting in excessive stimulation of nerves and muscles, akin to a nerve agent (2). Our objective is to develop a rapid detection tool for determining the levels of pesticide residues in dairy products. In this study, we measured the release of hydrogen ions (H+) resulting from the hydrolysis of ACh by AChE, serving as an indirect method to evaluate the inhibitory effect of OPs on AChE. To detect the signals of H+ released during ACh decomposition, we used ITO-coated nanostructures modified with 3-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APTMS) as a sensing substrate integrated into the extended gate of a field-effect transistor (EGFET) biosensor. The amino group at the end of APTMS can bond with H+. By monitoring the changes in electrical signal from the EGFET biosensor, it is possible to know the concentration of H+ in the solution. The output characteristics (Id-Vd) of the APTMS-modified ITO-VASiNW EGFET were measured using ACh solutions at different concentrations. A correlation was observed between Id and ACh concentration within the tested range, exhibiting a sensitivity of 0.016 mA1/2 / mM and an R2 value of 0.9. A lower concentration of H+ indicates a more pronounced inhibitory effect on AChE by OPs and suggests higher levels of pesticide residues. References (1) Colović, M. B., Krstić, D. Z., Lazarević-Pašti, T. D., Bondžić, A. M., & Vasić, V. M. (2013). Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors: pharmacology and toxicology. Curr Neuropharmacol, 11(3), 315-335.(2) Rajagopalan, V., Venkataraman, S., Rajendran, D. S., Vinoth Kumar, V., Kumar, V. V., & Rangasamy, G. (2023). Acetylcholinesterase biosensors for electrochemical detection of neurotoxic pesticides and acetylcholine neurotransmitter: A literature review. Environmental Research, 227, 115724. Figure 1

Improving the acoustic performance of flexible polyurethane foam using biochar modified by (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane coupling agent.

This study aims to investigate the potential of integrating natural biochar (BC) derived from eggshell waste into flexible polyurethane (FPU) foam to enhance its mechanical and acoustic performance. The study explores the impact of incorporating BC at various weight ratios (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7wt. %) on the properties of the FPU foam. Additionally, the effects of modifying the BC with (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS) at different ratios (10, 20, and 30wt. %) and the influence of diverse particle sizes of BC on the thermal, mechanical, and acoustic characteristics of the FPU composite are investigated. The functional groups, morphology, and elemental composition of the developed FPU composites are analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques. Characteristics such as density, gel fraction, and porosity were also assessed. The results reveal that the density of FPU foam increased by 4.32% and 7.83% while the porosity decreased to 50.22% and 47.05% with the addition of 0.1 wt. % of unmodified BC and modified BC with 20wt. % APTMS, respectively, compared to unfilled FPU. Additionally, the gel fraction of the FPU matrix increases by 1.91% and 3.55% with the inclusion of 0.1 wt. % unmodified BC and modified BC with 20 wt. % APTMS, respectively. Furthermore, TGA analysis revealed that all FPU composites demonstrate improved thermal stability compared to unfilled FPU, reaching a peak value of 312.17°C for the FPU sample incorporating BC modified with 20 wt. % APTMS. Compression strength increased with 0.1wt. % untreated BC but decreased at higher concentrations. Modifying BC with 20% APTMS resulted in an 8.23% increase in compressive strength compared to unfilled FPU. Acoustic analysis showed that the addition of BC improved absorption, and modified BC enhanced absorption characteristics of FPU, reaching Class D with a 20 mm thickness. BC modified with APTMS further improved acoustic properties compared to the unfilled FPU sample (Class E), with 20% modification showing the best results. These composites present promising materials for sound absorption applications and address environmental issues related to eggshell waste.

Glycidyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-enhanced flexible aminosiloxanes to protect sandstone monuments

To protect weathered ancient stone monuments from surface cracking and surface damage by powders, strong materials containing flexible chains are required. Herein, a facile strategy was proposed to produce hybrid octa-glycidyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (GPOSS)-enhanced flexible siloxanes by the ring-opening reaction of GPOSS using three aminosiloxanes (bis(3-aminopropyl) terminated poly (dimethyl siloxane) (NH2-PDMS), 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS), and N-(6-aminohexyl) aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (AHAPTMS). This produced three different protective materials (POSS-PDMS, POSS-APTS, and POSS-AHAPTMS) that greatly improved the weather resistance of sandstone monuments, especially their resistance to water, salt, temperature, and humidity. All three protective materials presented an adhesion of up to 2.4 MPa. The resistance of freeze-thaw aging cycles was much higher for the protected sandstone (104–133 cycles) compared with the unprotected sandstone (20 cycles). The three protective materials improved the salt weather resistance of protected sandstone (9–60 cycles) compared with unprotected sandstone (3 cycles), with the long-chain aminosiloxane AHAPTMS providing the best protection. The hydrophobicity of three protective materials on the sandstone surface was improved. Furthermore, the water absorption, water vapor permeability, pore size distribution, mechanical strength, light transmittance, and glass transition temperature (Tg), were all improved. The three GPOSS-enhanced flexible siloxanes are novel and eco-friendly materials for protecting sandstone monuments.

Innovative multifunctional nanocomposite coated aluminum alloy for improved mechanical, flame retardant, and corrosion resistance in automobile industries

ABSTRACT Nanocomposites with impermeable two-dimensional materials show promise for metal corrosion protection. A coating matrix incorporating (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (AMS) functionalized molybdenum nitride (Mo2N) enhances the barrier effect due to its chemical and thermal stability. Further improvement is achieved by adding functionalized Mo2N into graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) within a polyurethane (PU) matrix, enhancing corrosion protection and fire retardancy. Electrochemical techniques evaluated the efficacy of aluminium coated with PU and varying concentrations of functionalized Mo2N/GCN. The resulting PU composite exhibited superior flame retardant capabilities, reducing peak heat release rate (pHRR), total heat release (THR), and total smoke production (TSP) compared to pure PU. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed enhanced coating resistance (5.55 × 101 1 Ω.cm2) even after 500 hours of exposure. Additionally, the composite displayed exceptional water repellency with a water contact angle (WCA) of 156° and commendable mechanical properties, including an adhesive strength of 19.2 MPa within the PU substrate. This multifunctional PU composite, incorporating functionalized Mo2N/GCN, presents a promising option for automotive coatings, offering corrosion protection, flame retardancy, water repellency, and mechanical robustness, thus enhancing durability and performance in harsh conditions.

Synthesis and characterization of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers for the rapid and selective determination of clofazimine in blood plasma samples

Clofazimine (CLF) is a riminophenazine derivative and a new therapeutic option with high efficacy for patients with rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (TB). The blood levels of CLF are low and suboptimal, so therapeutic drug monitoring is required. Prior to this study, there were no molecular imprinting–based solid phase extraction (SPE) sorbents that could be used to determine the blood CLF levels. Hence, we prepared a magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer (MMIPs) to capture CLF. We employed computational selection of a functional monomer and crosslinker and confirmed these selections based on the association constant (Ka) and a Job plot. We synthesised MMIPs with two surface modifiers and characterized the polymers. Our computational analysis based on the bond energy revealed that methyl methacrylate (MMA) was the most suitable functional monomer at a CLF-to-MMA molar ratio of 1:4. Based on the bond energy, the most suitable crosslinker was trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TRIM) at a CLF-to-TRIM molar ratio of 1:1. We determined the Ka of MMA and TRIM in different solvents. Isopropanol produced the highest Ka. The Job plot showed that a template-to-MMA-to-TRIM molar ratio of 1:4:20 was optimal to synthesize imprinted polymer in isopropanol. We prepared MMIPs using two different modifiers, namely aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTES) and oleic acid (OA), using the ratio determined from the Job plot. Physical characteristic tests carried out using FT-IR, SEM-EDS, PSA, BET and VSM, showed that the synthesis was success with a spherical and uniform agglomeration of particles, also a flat surface with many holes with a particle size of MMIP-APTES and MMIP-OA respectively 0.14 μm and 0.28 μm, showed a surface area for MMIP-APTES is 2874.51 m2/g and MMIP-OA 2913.07 m2/g, exhibiting superparamagnetic properties with a saturation magnetization value of MMIP-APTES 21.1 emu/g−1 and MMIP-OA 49.9 emu/g−1. Adsorption capacity result showed that MMIP-OA fits well with the Langmuir model, while MMIP-APTES fits better with the Freundlich. Application of MMIP-SPE (Magnetic Molecular Imprinted Polymer-Solid Phase Extraction) APTES resulted 92.3 ± 6.1 % and MMIP-SPE-OA 51.5 ± 8.1 % for recovering CLF in blood. The result of selectivity test also showed that MMIP-SPE-APTES is better than MMIP-SPE-OA and selectively recover CLF from human blood plasma existed together with other TB-Drugs. The study result shows that MMIPs with APTES modification can be used for CLF determination in human blood plasma.

Realizing highly conductive “polymer in salt” electrolytes through Li-ion-highway for room temperature all-solid-state Li-S batteries

“Polymer in salt” electrolytes (PISEs) have great application prospects because of their higher ionic conductivity than conventional solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) at room temperature. However, it is still a challenge to realize both high ionic conduction and mechanical properties for PISEs. Here we address the issue by comprising interconnected ultra-long MnO2 nanowires modified with (3-Aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (AMW) in PAN-LiTFSI-based PISEs. The presence of AMW reinforces the mechanical properties and aids Li-ion migration between ionic aggregates through a “hand-to-hand” mode. The resulting electrolyte (PIS-AMW) exhibits a high tensile strength of 2.77 MPa, ionic conductivity of 4.44 × 10−4 S cm−1 and Li-ion transference number of 0.61 at 25 °C. Li symmetric cells assembled with PIS-AMW demonstrate satisfactory cycling stability for up to 600 h. All-solid-state lithium‑sulfur batteries assembled with this electrolyte exhibit a capacity of 643 mAh g−1 at 0.05C and 25 °C after 80 cycles. The strategy effectively resolves the dilemma between long-range ionic conduction and mechanical properties in PISEs, which have potential applications in high-energy-density solid-state batteries.

Inverse Vulcanization of Activated Norbornenyl Esters – A Versatile Platform for Functional Sulfur Polymers

Elemental sulfur has shown to be a promising alternative feedstock for development of novel polymeric materials with high sulfur content. However, the utilization of inverse vulcanized polymers is restricted by the limitation of functional comonomers suitable for an inverse vulcanization. Control over properties and structure of inverse vulcanized polymers still poses a challenge to current research due to the dynamic nature of sulfur‐sulfur bonds and high temperature of inverse vulcanization reactions. In here, we report for the first time the inverse vulcanization of norbornenyl pentafluorophenyl ester (NB‐PFPE), allowing for post‐modification of inverse vulcanized polymers via amidation of reactive PFP esters to yield high sulfur content polymers under mild conditions. Amidation of the precursor material with three functional primary amines (α‐amino‐ω‐methoxy polyethylene glycol, aminopropyl trimethoxy silane, allylamine) was investigated. The resulting materials were applicable as sulfur containing poly(ethylene glycol) nanoparticles in aqueous environment. Cross‐linked mercury adsorbents, sulfur surface coatings, and high‐sulfur content networks with predictable thermal properties were achievable using aminopropyl trimethoxy silane and allylamine for post‐polymerization modification, respectively. With the broad range of different amines available and applicable for post‐polymerization modification, the versatility of poly(sulfur‐random‐NB‐PFPE) as a platform precursor polymer for novel specialized sulfur containing materials was showcased.

Inverse Vulcanization of Activated Norbornenyl Esters-A Versatile Platform for Functional Sulfur Polymers.

Elemental sulfur has shown to be a promising alternative feedstock for development of novel polymeric materials with high sulfur content. However, the utilization of inverse vulcanized polymers is restricted by the limitation of functional comonomers suitable for an inverse vulcanization. Control over properties and structure of inverse vulcanized polymers still poses a challenge to current research due to the dynamic nature of sulfur-sulfur bonds and high temperature of inverse vulcanization reactions. In here, we report for the first time the inverse vulcanization of norbornenyl pentafluorophenyl ester (NB-PFPE), allowing for post-modification of inverse vulcanized polymers via amidation of reactive PFP esters to yield high sulfur content polymers under mild conditions. Amidation of the precursor material with three functional primary amines (α-amino-ω-methoxy polyethylene glycol, aminopropyl trimethoxy silane, allylamine) was investigated. The resulting materials were applicable as sulfur containing poly(ethylene glycol) nanoparticles in aqueous environment. Cross-linked mercury adsorbents, sulfur surface coatings, and high-sulfur content networks with predictable thermal properties were achievable using aminopropyl trimethoxy silane and allylamine for post-polymerization modification, respectively. With the broad range of different amines available and applicable for post-polymerization modification, the versatility of poly(sulfur-random-NB-PFPE) as a platform precursor polymer for novel specialized sulfur containing materials was showcased.

One-pot synthesis of quinazolinone heterocyclic compounds using functionalized SBA-15 with natural material ellagic acid as a novel nanocatalyst

The nanoporous compound SBA-15 was functionalized using (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTES). Then the obtained product was modified with ellagic acid (ELA), a bioactive polyphenolic compound. The structure of the prepared nanoporous composition SBA-15@ELA was extensively characterized and confirmed by various techniques, such as Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms (BET). The novel, recoverable, heterogenous SBA-15@ELA nanoporous compound was used to investigate its catalytic effect in the synthesis of 4-oxo-quinazoline derivatives (19 examples) with high yields (78–96%), as an important class of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. The use of an inexpensive mesoporous catalyst with a high surface area, along with easy recovery by simple filtration are among the advantages of this catalysis research work. The catalyst has been used in at least 6 consecutive runs without a significant loss of its activity.

Fabrication of Functional Coating Layer for Emerging Transparent Electrodes using Antimony Tin Oxide Nano-colloid

This study fabricated a functional coating layer for transparent electrodes using antimony tin oxide nanopowder. The wet grinding method was employed to create a stable dispersion solution of antimony tin oxide nanopowder with aminopropyl tri-methoxysilane and acetyl acetone as primary dispersing agents. Various concentrations of these dispersing agents were used to determine optimal conditions, followed by a gel reaction to form a stable solution. The primary objective was to provide a viable alternative to indium-based transparent electrodes, specifically indium tin oxide, by incorporating antimony oxide. This approach not only addresses limitations associated with indium, but also enhances mechanical properties. The methodology involves the utilization of antimony tin oxide nanopowder and various solvents including ethanol and aforementioned dispersing agents to create a stable antimony tin oxide sol through wet grinding. Effects of dispersant concentration and milling time on the secondary particle size of the antimony tin oxide sol were thoroughly evaluated. Furthermore, this study examined sheet resistance of resulting coating layers by conducting a comparative analysis between antimony tin oxide and indium tin oxide under similar conditions. Findings of this study meticulously detailed in subsequent sections of the manuscript provide valuable insights into optimizing the entire process, encompassing synthesis, coating, heat treatment, and the production of high-quality transparent conductive coatings. These techniques and outcomes can significantly contribute to the development of more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional indium-based transparent electrodes.

Construction of 2D/2D NH2-TiO2/ReS2 molecular-connected heterojunction to achieve selective carrier transport for photocatalytic hydrogen production

The 2D/2D heterojunction photocatalyst demonstrates a broad range of applications owing to its large interface contact area. At present, most of the current 2D/2D structures are constructed by self-assembly, which mainly forms a relatively weak van der Waals force at the interface. This poses a challenge to achieving effective carrier separation. Here, we proposed an innovative strategy of molecular-connected heterojunctions to address this challenge. The strategy uses (3-aminopropyl) trimethoxysilane (APTMS) to modify the surface of TiO2 and construct NH2-TiO2/ReS2 heterojunction, which not only alters the material’s Zeta potential but also uses molecular chains connecting TiO2 and ReS2. Simultaneously, the design of molecular-connected heterojunction changes the work function of TiO2, leading to the transformation of the TiO2/ReS2 heterojunction from type-Ⅰ to S-scheme, thereby achieving a selective carrier separation. The constructed NH2-TiO2/ReS2 photocatalytic heterojunction composite has a hydrogen production rate of 451.3 μmol g-1 h−1, which is over 11 and 3 times than TiO2 and TiO2/ReS2, respectively, and exhibits excellent long-term photocatalytic stability. This study presents a novel approach for achieving strong interface bonding and introduces an innovative approach for constructing 2D/2D photocatalytic heterojunctions.

Green-AgNPs modified membrane for monitoring mercury ions in cosmetic sample using pre-concentration assisted voltammetry technique

The carcinogenic and teratogenic properties of mercury have driven the necessity for the development of highly sensitive methods capable of detecting even trace amounts of the element. In response to this need, an analysis technique has been established for mercury ions, employing preconcentration methods utilizing filter paper modified by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and 3-Amino propyl trimethoxy silane (APTMS). This method allows for the detection of mercury ions through the voltammetry technique, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Upon conducting analyses using this method, it was found that the tested cosmetic samples were free from Hg2+ ions, indicating the absence of mercury contamination in the cosmetics under investigation. The correlation coefficient derived from the graph of the analysis results stands at an impressive value of 0.9976, affirming the strong relationship between the measured concentrations and the actual mercury content. Additionally, the method demonstrates excellent sensitivity, as evidenced by the low limit of detection (LOD) value of 0.0483 mM and the limit of quantification (LOQ) value of 0.1611 mM.

Amine-containing yolk-shell structured magnetic organosilica nanocomposite as a highly efficient catalyst for the Knoevenagel reaction.

The yolk-shell structured silica nanocomposites have been considered by many researchers due to their specific physical and chemical properties. These materials have been widely used in adsorption and catalysis processes. Especially, the void space of yolk-shell nanostructures can provide a unique environment for storage, compartmentation, and confinement in host-guest interactions. In this paper, for the first time, the preparation, characterization, and catalytic application of a novel amine-containing magnetic methylene-based periodic mesoporous organosilica with yolk-shell structure (YS-MPMO/pr-NH2) are developed. The magnetic periodic mesoporous organosilica nanocomposite was synthesized through surfactant-directed co-condensation of bis(triethoxysilyl)methane (BTEM) and tetraethoxysilane around Fe3O4 nanoparticles. After Soxhlet extraction, the surface of YS-MPMO nanocomposite was modified with 3-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane to deliver YS-MPMO-pr-NH2 nanocatalyst. This catalyst was characterized by using EDX, FT-IR, VSM, TGA, XRD, nitrogen-sorption, and SEM analyses. The catalytic activity of YS-MPMO/pr-NH2 was studied in the Knoevenagel reaction giving the corresponding products in a high yield and selectivity. The YS-MPMO/pr-NH2 nanocatalyst was recovered and reused at least four times without a significant decrease in efficiency and activity. A leaching test was performed to study the nature of the catalyst during reaction conditions Also, the catalytic performance of our designed nanocomposite was compared with some of the previous catalysts used in the Knoevenagel reaction.

Optimization of the mass ratio of siloxane crosslinkers for poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) anion exchange membranes to improve acid enrichment by electrodialysis

Proton blocking anion exchange membranes (AEMs), which are employed in electrodialysis technology, show promise in acid recovery from industrial waste. A series of poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) (PPO) membranes were prepared using (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS) and weakly functionalized bases including N-butylimidazole (N-BuIm). Were networked to create AEMs with low leak rates. It was discovered that the appropriate concentration of siloxane crosslinker raised the membrane matrix's density and lowered the AEM matrix's hydrophilicity. Thermogravimetric measurements and water absorption have confirmed this, and the membranes in this series even swell up to 8.61 %. The maximum H+ concentration concentrated by the cross-linked AEM (BPPO/5Si) during the ED with a current density of 10 mA∙cm−2 was 2.35 M, which was higher than the concentration concentrated by the uncross-linked AEM (BPPO/OSi), which was 1.90 M (beginning concentration: 1.00 M). The current efficiency was 44.8 % and the energy consumption was only 1.81 kW ∙h∙kg−1. A balance between proton blocking and SO42− ions transport was achieved by the optimized AEM, which exhibited increased hydrophobicity and smaller ion clusters. The improved AEM was found to have fewer ionic clusters and greater hydrophobicity. For cross-linked AEMs, a trade-off between SO42− ions transport and proton blocking was thus accomplished. This work is thought to offer direction for developing sophisticated proton blocking AEMs.

Preparation and thermostability of a Si/P/N synergistic flame retardant containing triazine ring structure for cotton fabrics

A new synergistic flame retardant named Bisiminopropyl trimethoxysilane-1,3,5-triazine-O-bicyclic pentaerythritol phosphate (BTPODE) was synthesized, which is a type of Si/P/N flame retardant. This was accomplished by grafting aminopropyl trimethoxysilane and bicyclic pentaerythritol phosphate onto a triazine ring structure, serving as an intermediate. The structure of BTPODE was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR, 13C NMR, and 31P NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). SEM was used to detect the surface morphology of cotton fabrics, which suggested that BTPODE had been resoundingly stick to cotton fabrics. The flame retardant properties of cotton fabrics were evaluated by measuring the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and conducting vertical flammability experiments. Cotton fabrics with a weight gain of 20.73 % achieved an LOI value of 32.5 %. Thermogravimetric (TG) experiments demonstrated the samples' good thermostability. Furthermore, under nitrogen conditions, the char residue of cotton fabric with a weight gain of 20.73 % was 36.85 %. The cone calorimetry test (CONE) showed a significant reduction in the TSP value, indicating a certain level of smoke suppression performance. Finally, based on the obtained experimental results, the fire-retardant mechanism principle of the flame retardant was deduced.

SiO2–modified APTMS nanocoatings encapsulating FeNi: Amplifying microwave absorption and corrosion resistance

Corrosion is a major challenge for the reliable operation of ferromagnetic absorbers (FMAs) in extreme environments. Herein, we employed a one–pot method to construct SiO2–modified (3–Aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS) nanocoatings on the FeNi surface, using tetraethyl orthosilicate and APTMS as precursors. The resulting APTMS/SiO2 nanocoating (thickness: 12.0–29.3 nm) contained numerous –NH2 and –OH functional groups, contributing to the generation of dipole polarizations. The nanocoating also improved the interfacial polarization and the impedance matching of FeNi@APTMS/SiO2, enhancing its microwave absorption (MA) properties. At 2.00 mm, FeNi@APTMS/SiO2 exhibited a maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 9.23 GHz, outperforming FeNi's 8.01 GHz. Moreover, the radar cross–section value of FeNi@APTMS/SiO2 reached as high as 27.84 dB·m2. Moreover, the nanocoating acted as a barrier to isolate the FeNi from the corrosive medium and prevent the formation of corrosive microcells with NaCl solutions, increasing the corrosion resistance of FeNi. The corrosion rate of FeNi@APTMS/SiO2 was measured at 4.71 × 10–11 m/s, which was 5.81 times lower than that of FeNi. This research highlights the advantages of APTMS/SiO2 for MA and corrosion protection, offering valuable insights into the development of corrosion–resistant FMAs.