FESEM Analysis Research Articles

Hydroxyapatite layer evolution on silica-based (45S10P) bioactive glass-ceramic nanoparticles doped with Zn2+ ions: Augmentation of in vitro bioactivity, antibacterial activity and textural modification for bone regeneration

Zinc-incorporated bioactive glasses (BG) and bioactive glass-ceramic (BGC) nanoparticles (BGC-NPs) represent highly adaptable, biodegradable, and bioactive materials in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. This study delves into the synthesis, characterization and biomedical implications of Zn2+ ions-doped 45S10P spherical BGC-NPs, employing analytical techniques and in vitro assays. The resulting (Zn2++ 45S10P) BGC-NPs, prepared using a modified Strober's method, exhibited spherical morphology with excellent dispersion, as verified by TEM, FE-SEM, and DLS analyses. XRD, FTIR, and FESEM analysis revealed an augmented hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer formation with increasing zinc content. Zeta potential analysis showcased a shift from negative to positive values after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF), indicating the bioactive potential of the developed BGC-NPs. Hemocompatibility assays indicated the biocompatibility of all BGC-NPs, demonstrating minimal hemolytic effects with incorporating Zn2+ ions below a standard threshold (<5 % lysis). Further, the migration assay revealed the potentiality of the BGC-NPs to stimulate the migration of HeLa cells. Cell viability assays employing MG-63 osteoblast-like cells highlighted enhanced cell viability over time, underscoring their non-toxic nature and potential for tissue regeneration. Antibacterial assays displayed significant inhibitory effects against Gram-negative compared to Gram-positive bacteria, underscoring their potential for anti-infection applications. Overall, the results affirm the promising prospects of Zinc incorporation into 45S10P BGC-NPs for bone tissue regeneration applications.

Quercus ballot as an innovative feedstock for biodiesel production using ZnO nanocatalyst

Selecting non-edible plant seed oil remains the best choice for biodiesel production using an effective nanocatalyst. In this study, the ZnO was prepared as a nanocatalyst using an aqueous extract from the Alhaji marorum plant. Nano ZnO has shown high catalytic activity, is cost-effective, environmentally friendly and converts triglycerides into fatty acid methyl esters. The results indicate that ZnO nanocatalyst exhibit a high specific surface area (146.82 m2 g-1), large pore volume (0.35 cm3 g-1), and an average crystallite size of 42.3 nm. The FESEM analysis shows that the particle size of ZnO lies in the range of 30–50 nm with a rod shape and densely packed morphology. The biodiesel is produced using a transesterification process from novel non-edible Quercus ballot plant seeds. The resulting biodiesel has a 98.06 % yield under a methanol/oil ratio of 6:1 with 0.5 wt% ZnO nanocatalyst at 65 °C for 80 min. It is established that the methanol-to-oil ratio and the catalyst concentration significantly affect the transesterification reaction. The biodiesel produced is characterized by GC–MS to determine its exact composition and FTIR is used to confirm functional groups and is evaluated according to ASTM D6751.

Designing of a proficient macro porous metallo-polymer of iron with anion functionality: A sustainable approach for arsenic remediation from water

In this study, a novel porous metallo-polymeric network named poly(Ferric trimethacrylate-co-4-Vinyl benzyl chloride), incorporating an iron moiety, was developed for arsenic remediation from water. The synthesis of crosslinked q(pFeVBC) was carried out via suspension polymerization and functionalizing it with hexamethylenetetramine, resulting in a porous three-dimensional structure. Characterization using FTIR, FESEM, XPS, XRD, and BET-SA analysis confirmed its properties. Various monomer ratios were tested to optimize q(pFeVBC) for arsenic removal. The q(pFeVBC) exhibited significant adsorption capacities (qe max exp) of 8.33 mg g−1 for As(V) and 7.9 mg g−1 for As (III), owe to its unique architecture (integrated iron moiety and anion functionality) and porous texture (SA: 112 m2 g−1, pore size: 1.27–2.07 µm), which is close to the capacity calculated by Langmuir model (qe max theo) 8.719 mg g−1 for As (V) and 8.463 mg g−1 for As (III). The PSO kinetic model showed excellent fitting for both arsenic forms. Thermodynamic studies indicated a spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process. Additionally, a 4:10:1 ANN model accurately predicted adsorption behavior.

Coloring properties of blue inorganic pigments based on cobalt/nickel doped strontium magnesium β-alumina structure in 3YSZ ceramics

Blue inorganic pigments based on cobalt or nickel doped strontium magnesium β-alumina structure (β-SAM) solid solutions were successfully fabricated using the solid state method for the first time. Compared with commercial cobalt blue (CoAl2O4, 33.32 wt% Co, −b∗ = 18.5), Sr0.857Mg0.714Al9.986Co0.3O17-δ with significantly lower Co content (2.71 wt%) achieved a more vibrant blue color (−b∗ = 57.5). The ocean blue color of Sr0.857Mg0.714Al10.286-xCoxO17-δ (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) originates from the A24(F4)→T14(P4) transition of the tetrahedral Co2+, while the sky blue color of Sr0.857Mg0.714Al10.286-xNixO17-δ (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) is due to the T13(F3)→T13(P3) transition in tetrahedral Ni2+. Chemical stability tests demonstrated good acid and alkali resistance of as-prepared pigments. Additionally, blue 3YSZ ceramic composites incorporating 5–10 wt% Sr0.857Mg0.714Al9.986Co0.3O17-δ or Sr0.857Mg0.714Al9.986Ni0.3O17-δ pigments as chromophores were obtained after high temperature sintering. Ocean blue ceramics composed of 10 wt% Sr0.857Mg0.714Al9.986Co0.3O17-δ and 90 wt% 3YSZ with 0.27 wt% Co exhibited a larger −b∗ value (−b∗ = 43.3) compared to 10 wt% CoAl2O4-3YSZ blue ceramic composite (−b∗ = 34.0, 3.33 wt% Co). FE-SEM analysis showed that the pigment phase remained stable after high temperature sintering with 3YSZ, with clear grain boundaries observed. The mechanical properties of the fabricated blue ceramics were comparable to those of pure 3YSZ ceramic, which highlights the potential of Co/Ni doped Sr0.857Mg0.714Al10.286O17 pigments in ceramic applications.

Enhanced efficiency, electron lifetime, and eco-friendliness of dye-sensitized solar cells using nanofibrous TiO2/ZnO composite photoanodes and natural anthocyanin sensitizer

Semiconductor is the main part of the photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this study, an evaluation was conducted on two different morphological shapes of TiO2/ZnO semiconductors, namely nanoparticles (NPs) and nanofibers (NFs), to enhance the efficiency of DSSCs. The nanofibrous semiconductors were fabricated using the electrospinning technique. Furthermore, a natural sensitizer, anthocyanin dye, was used to promote the environmental friendliness of the fabricated cells. These cells were then compared to those that used a synthetic dye known as N719 to determine their efficiencies. The UV–vis results confirmed the extraction of anthocyanin from black plum fruits (Syzygium cumini). The structural characteristics of the composites were examined using XRD, FE-SEM, and BET experiments. The XRD results revealed that the anatase phase of TiO2 was dominant in the crystal structure of the semiconductors, while the crystallite sizes of the composites were 25.04 nm and 12.24 nm in NPs and NFs forms, respectively. The FE-SEM analysis revealed the formation of quasi-spherical NPs with an average diameter of 48.26 ± 17.75 nm and NFs with an average diameter of 153.99 ± 26.18 nm. The BET results showed that the surface characteristics of the nanocomposite were enhanced by changing the shape from NPs to NFs. Photovoltaic studies showed that utilizing NFs semiconductors in the photoanodes of DSSCs resulted in increased conversion efficiency of light to electricity. The results of the sun simulator studies confirmed that the use of natural dye led to a decrease in the effectiveness of the DSSCs. This phenomenon can be attributed to the weaker binding of the natural dye to the photoanodes. Furthermore, the EIS investigations illustrated that the electron lifetime in the natural dye is more than twice that of N719, leading to a reduced rate of electron recombination in the Syzygium cumini extract. The TiO2/ZnO NFs photoanodes exhibited superior performance compared to their nanoparticle counterparts in DSSCs. Their high surface area promoted superior dye adsorption and light absorption. Moreover, the interconnected nanofiber network facilitated efficient electron transport, minimizing recombination losses. Increasing the binding strength of the chosen natural dye to the photoanode will also make the cells more environmentally friendly and improve their ability to produce electricity.

Optical Study on Co-Sensitization of Betanin Dye with Cadmium Sulfide to Fabricate Dye Sensitized Solar Cell

Natural dyes are low-cost, eco-friendly, readily available and have optical characteristics which render them useful in energy research. The titanium tetra isopropoxide precursor can be employed using sol-gel synthesis to get titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs). The FESEM analysis confirmed the deposition of TiO2 NPs on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrate, which is necessary for the photo-conversion mechanism to produce electricity. One of the natural dyes that is extracted from red beets is known as betanin dye (Bd). Due to their aligned energy levels, Bd and cadmium sulfide (CdS) are used together to provide effective optical characteristics, making them suitable as dye sensitizers. The presence of Cd-S, C-N and hydroxyl groups assigned to 500, 1633, and 3300 cm-1 respectively, was demonstrated by the FTIR analysis. The energy gap of 2.16, 2.13 and 2.2 eV for Bd, CdS and Bd-CdS composite was estimated using Tauc's plot and UV-visible spectra demonstrated maximum absorbance at 485, 510 and 528 nm, respectively. The Bd absorbs broad light in visible region due to the addition of CdS. The major charge-transport phenomenon in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) involves an increase in photo-current density, due to its luminous nature. However, the recombination of charge carriers prevents the overall performance of the DSSCs. The power conversion efficiency of the DSSC constructed from Bd dye and Bd-CdS composite was 0.234% and 0.367%, respectively. This optical investigation suggests co-sensitization as a sure-fire method to improve the efficiency of DSSCs extracted from natural dyes, making them reliable for future indoor applications.

Advancements in lithium zinc phosphate (LZP) nanoparticles: Enhanced electrochemical performance for high-efficiency supercapacitors

The synthesized LiZnPO4 nanoparticles were characterized at different temperatures like (400oC, 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C) using various techniques including XRD, FTIR, FESEM, XPS, and electrochemical analyses. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of LiZnPO4 nanoparticles sintered at temperatures from 400 to 700 °C revealed well-crystallized structures at 700 °C, with preferred orientations along (202) and (020) planes. The Scherrer formula was employed to determine crystallite sizes, showing an increase from 55 nm at 400 °C to 85 nm at 700 °C. The annealing temperature influences the formation of microspherical aggregates, determining their surface area and thereby affecting energy storage performance. Samples annealed at 700 °C exhibited a specific capacitance of approximately 268 F/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g and scan rate of 5 mV/s. Our studies indicate that LiZnPO4-based nanostructures have substantial potential for the development of hybrid supercapacitors.

Synthesis of Pyrrolo [2,1-a]isoquinolines using Cu NPs decorated microcrystalline cellulose in 2-Methyl-THF: A biodegradable heteregeneous nanocatalyst for the sustainable cascade approach

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) supported on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) serve as an efficient and biodegradable heterogeneous nanocatalyst for the synthesis of pyrrolo [1,2a] isoquinoline under mild and sustainable reaction conditions through a cascade reaction involving condensation, addition, oxidation, and cyclization events. The catalyst underwent thorough characterization via various techniques, including FT-IR, PXRD, XPS, FE-SEM, EDX, TEM, and HR-TEM analysis. Optimized reaction conditions facilitated high-yield production of a diverse range of pyrrolo [1,2a] isoquinolines in 2-Me THF solvent, and the method demonstrated scalability with successful gram-scale synthesis. Notably, the catalyst exhibited reusability for up to five cycles without a significant decrease in activity. This approach aligns with eco-friendly principles, as evidenced by favorable green chemistry metrics for compound 4a, including low process mass intensity (7.83), a minimal environmental impact factor (6.83), a substantial atom economy (67.56 %), efficient reaction mass efficiency (60.76 %), high chemical yield (92.37 %), low mass intensity (1.64), notable mass productivity (60.97 %), considerable carbon efficiency (69.15 %), and optimum efficiency (89.93 %). These results highlight the sustainable and environmentally conscious nature of the developed synthetic methodology.

Solvent-regulated fabrication of Ni-MOF-based asymmetric supercapacitor device

An innovative solvent-controlled technique has been devised to fabricate Ni-BDC through the impurity-free-solvothermal method. X-ray diffraction analysis shows that the synthesized material has a triclinic phase and belongs to the P-1 space group. FESEM and TEM analyses elucidated the nanosheet-like morphology of Ni-BDC (NB1) in a 1:1 solvent mixture comprising of ethanol and DMF. In a three-electrode setup, NB1 displays an outstanding specific capacitance (CS) of 1124 F/g and remarkable cyclic stability (98.2 %) in a 2 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. Moreover, a device was constructed with a voltage range of 1.4 V, utilizing a positive electrode (NB1) in conjunction with a negative electrode composed of activated carbon (AC). The as-fabricated supercapacitor device displays a high capacitance of 359.3 F/g at a current density of 2 A/g, an impressive energy density of 97.8 Wh/kg at a power density of 484.2 W/kg. Three devices were linked in series, they collectively illuminated a green LED.

Dual sustainability of rGO/CuCoO2 nanocomposites with enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial insights

New growth and photocatalytic activity of CuCoO2 and rGO/CuCoO2 nanocomposites were demonstrated for model organic pollutant (dye) and antibacterial studies. The rGO/CuCoO2 nanocomposites were designed by hydrothermal technique. CuCoO2 and rGO/CuCoO2 materials were investigated and characterized by several instrumental techniques like FT-IR spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, X-Ray diffractometer (XRD), DRS-UV Visible spectroscopy, HRTEM, FESEM analysis, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and BET investigations. XRD confirmed the CuCoO2 cubic phase structure. It seems to have been evaluated for FT-IR and the Raman results were better than anything else that should be satisfied. Hence, Cu–O or Co-O (M−O−M) modes were confirmed peaks at 400 to 900 cm−1. We proposed CuCoO2 and rGO/CuCoO2 ((25/75), (50/50) & (75/25)) composite materials band gap energies at 2.8 eV to 2.0 eV. So, these results are also one of the benefits in the application area. A Sedum morganianum Burrito − Burro’s plant’s tail-like morphology was obtained in the pure CuCoO2 materials, and different weight percentages of rGO composites were also identified in FESEM-analysis as wood fungi, rods, and sheets-like structures. The rGO/CuCoO2 sheet-like morphology was confirmed by HRTEM measurements. The elemental composition of materials was investigated by EDX spectroscopy. We can prepare to suggest that the synthesis potential in the prepared matter is tbepensumed Bache formulation and much less explored, first-time declared phases and novelty of the synthetic designs, new morphologies, and bandgap energies. The synthesized rGO/CuCoO2 materials were achieved by 94 % Methylene blue (MB) dye degradation in photocatalytic applications, in which case composites were more efficient with environment-friendly when compared to CuCoO2 nanoparticles. The role of the rGO composite can be divided into three different principles such as absorbance, charge separator, and photosensitizer. This rGO material can reflect a big absorption capacity depending on the dye to rGO, with parallelly obeyed for π-π interactions. Hence, it’s favored for catalytic improvement. Secondly, rGO degradation was improved to the charge separation and may be foiling for the recombination of electron-hole pairs. Finally, transform their wide bandgap semiconductor into the catalyst to facilitate parameters. The rGO/CuCoO2 composite materials have performed well in reusability and radical abilities. The antimicrobial activity of the CuCoO2 nanoparticle was investigated on Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus &Enterococcus faecalis and Gram-negative Escherichia coli &Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial strain. As promised rGO/CuCoO2 and CuCoO2 materials were examined for better degradation activities and antibacterial activities. Antibacterial efficacy studies play a major innovative role in the present work and have not been previously published. Hence, we have selected this kind of material.

Construction of Ba-doped Ag3PO4/SnO2 type-II nanocomposites as a promising photocatalyst for boosting photocatalytic degradation of BY28 dye and redox conversion of Cr(VI)/Cr(III)

In the present study, Ba-doped Ag3PO4/SnO2 type-II heterojunction nanocomposites were fabricated and systemically investigated for the degradation of basic yellow 28 (BY28) dye and Cr(VI) reduction in the photocatalytic process under visible-light irradiation. XRD, XPS, FESEM, DRS, and PL analyses were performed to determine the characterization of synthesized photocatalysts. The optimal 1.5 wt% Ba-doped Ag3PO4/SnO2 nanocomposite exhibited an efficient photocatalytic activity with rate constant of 0.0491 min−1 for BY28 degradation and 0.0261 min−1 for Cr(VI) reduction, which is 13.3 and 7.5 times higher than that of the SnO2 nanorods. Such enhanced performance can arise from the one-dimensional structure, extended light absorption toward the visible region, formation of the type II heterojunction, the new defect-related energy states, and efficient charge separation. Furthermore, the photostability of the photocatalysts was studied and a plausible photocatalytic mechanism was proposed.

An investigation on pyrite floatability using stable micro-nanobubble-assisted flotation

This study critically examines the impact of micro-nanobubble (MNB)-assisted flotation on pyrite recovery in bulk ore, and clarifies the intricate relationship between pyrite and its associated ore. The physicochemical properties of MNBs and the interaction mechanisms between xanthate collector and pure pyrite mineral were evaluated using advanced analytical techniques, including Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX), and Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), in the absence and the presence of MNBs. MNBs were created through hydrodynamic cavitation, and their characteristics revealed a size increase from 600 nm to 3 µm over 25 days. Notably, the zeta potential measurements indicated an increase from -2.5 to 0 mV at a constant pH of 8, correlating with the geometric mean size of MNBs coarsening from 600 nm to 2-3 µm. The FESEM and EDS analyses disclosed that ultrasonic treatment effectively dispersed ultrafine surface coatings on pyrite particles, increasing iron and sulfur purity by 8% and 6%, respectively, and significantly reducing surface oxygen by 53%. Micro-flotation and batch rougher kinetic flotation experiments were conducted with and without MNBs, leading to a 7% and 8% improvement in recovery for pyrite mono-minerals (-105+53 µm) and its ore (d&lt;sub&gt;80&lt;/sub&gt;=150 µm), respectively. The sorption behavior of sodium isopropyl xanthate (SIPX) collector on the particle surface was also investigated at various concentrations (ca. 10-160 µM) in the presence and absence of stable MNBs and demonstrated that the presence of MNBs resulted in a 1.6-fold increase in collector absorption on the pyrite surface, confirming the findings obtained from micro-flotation. Moreover, adsorption behavior is up to 1.3 times compared to the scenario without MNBs. The adsorption process was controlled by a pseudo-second-order model, indicating a chemical sorption mechanism.

Optimizing the synthesis conditions of CaAl‐layered double hydroxide and poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate)/CaAl‐LDH nanocomposite for potential use in antibacterial drug delivery

AbstractCalcium aluminum layered double hydroxide (CaAl‐LDH) has gained significance for drug delivery applications due to its multiple advantages, including high drug‐loading capacity, pH sensitivity, biocompatibility, high acceptable intake values of metal ions, and its ability to provide sustained release of the intercalated drug. In this study, pristine CaAl‐LDH was synthesized by co‐precipitation method at different pH values (9 and 10) and aging times (16 and 24 h) to obtain LDH with higher d‐spacing, which is beneficial for achieving a high drug loading efficiency. Ofloxacin (OFX), an antibiotic drug, was loaded into CaAl‐LDH via regeneration (CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG)) and co‐precipitation (CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(CPT)) methods, and achieved drug loading of 28.3% and 36.5%, respectively. The release behavior of OFX from CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG) and CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(CPT) formulations was examined in simulated conditions representing the gastrointestinal tract. CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG) showed less initial burst release of OFX compared to CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(CPT) in acidic as well as neutral pH conditions. In order to overcome the degradation of the drug before reaching the target site, CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG) was reinforced at 1, 3, and 5 wt% in poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) matrix by sonication‐assisted solution casting method. The PHB‐based nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, FESEM, TGA, and FTIR analyses. FESEM characterization of PHB‐based films loaded with 3 wt% of CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG) revealed compact morphology without any aggregate formation. Moreover, PHB/3CaAl‐LDH‐OFX(RG) films demonstrated sustained release of OFX at pH 1.2 (95.60% in 96 h), pH 6.8 (78% in 113 h), and pH 7.4 (40.90% in 107 h). The promising potential of PHB‐based formulations for antibacterial drug delivery systems was confirmed by their significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.Highlights pH and aging time influence the structural characteristics of pristine CaAl‐LDH. Ofloxacin loaded CaAl‐LDH prepared by co‐precipitation and regeneration methods. Sustained release of ofloxacin from poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate)‐based formulation. Poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate)‐based formulations exhibit excellent antibacterial activity.

Eco-friendly oriented synthesis of CeO2 NPs corroborated over silica gel: Synthesis, description of distinctive features and the study of its antioxidant and anti-human colorectal cancer action

This research, while making every endeavor to elaborate measures in supporting little ceria NPs, intends to keep their proper action, competence and capacity, at a greater stability of SiO2 assistance. In this process, we synthesized the ceria NPs instinctive in SiO2 utilizing a green procedure, where the external functional groups of SiO2 gel could be modified with Pistacia natural covering the aqueous extract used as the reducing/stabilizing factor to shape and arrange more moderate ceria NPs (CeO2 NPs-SiO2). We obtained these features of the newly made CeO2 NPs-SiO2 by employing such advanced analytic techniques as TEM, FE-SEM, EDS-elemental mapping and FT-IR analysis. These results show the well-dispersed spherical shapes of ceria nanoparticles with average sizes varying from 20 to 30 nm over the surface of silica gel in average. To realize the natural entailment, we utilized these substances in anticancer research projects to fight against colon cancer cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2) using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) procedure. This was also carried out in a way similar to the approach adopted in the natural assessment of antioxidant features by the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) approach. This material displayed its effective anticancer characteristics relied on the DPPH check's, notably IC50 value. We usually explored that the proportion of cancerous cell lines' cell livability reduced in the ceria nanoparticles-Silica NP in a dosage-based way. The MTT test generated the related IC50 figures on the two cell lines, being 264 μg/mL and 218 μg/mL in order. The transmission density rate was specified at 545 nm, demonstrating toxicity on usual cell line up to 2000 μg/mL, proving to be rather negligible.

Novel approaches of mycosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) using Pleurotus sajor-caju extract and their biological and environmental applications.

In this study, mycosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are fabricated via Pleurotus sajor-caju mushroom extract, and their potential medical and environmental applications are demonstrated. The biosynthesized ZnONPs were assessed for their antibacterial, anticancer, and biodecolorization potential efficiency. They were also characterized and morphologically analyzed by UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDX, HR-TEM, Zeta potential, and GC-MS analysis. The UV visible spectrum analysis of synthesized ZnONPs analyzed outcome 354nm was the SPR peak that the nanoparticles displayed. The characteristic Zn-O bond was indicated by a strong peak in the FT-IR study at 432.05cm-1. Based on XRD analysis, P. sajor-caju mediated ZnONPs were crystalline nature, with an average nano particle size of 14.21nm and a polydispersity directory of 0.29. The nanoparticles exhibit modest constancy, as shown by their zeta potential value of - 33.2mV. The presence of oxygen and zinc was verified by EDX analysis. The ZnONPs were found to be spherical in shape and crystalline nature structure, with smooth surface morphology and a mean particle size of 10nm using HR-TEM and SAED analysis. The significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus (6.2 ± 0.1), S. mutans (5.4 ± 0.4), and B. subtilis (5.2 ± 0.1mm) was demonstrated by the synthesized ZnONPs made using mushroom extract. It was discovered that when the concentration of mushroom extract was increased together with synthesized ZnONPs, the bactericidal activity increased considerably. A higher concentration of ZnONPs demonstrated superior antibacterial activity across the ZnONPs ratio tests. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay showed that ZnONPs, even at low doses, had a substantial number of cytotoxic effects on liver cancer cells (LC50 values 47.42µg/mL). The effectiveness test revealed that acid blue 129 was degraded. The best decolorization of acid blue 129 at 72.57% after 3h of soaking serves as evidence for the theory that myco-synthesized ZnONPs by P. sajor-caju mushroom can function as catalysts in reducing the dye. The mycosynthesized ZnONPs from P. sajor-caju extract, and its potential for antibacterial, anticancer, and decolorization are in this investigation. The mycosynthesized ZnONPs suggest a novel use for nanoparticles in the creation of environmental and medicinal products.

Experimental and theoretical exploration of bactericidal and photo-catalytical activities of hierarchically porous AuNRs@CuO nanocomposite

In this study, a novel binary nanocomposite consisting of CuO nanosheets functionalized with gold nanorods (AuNRs@CuO), was successfully prepared using a two-step synthetic procedure and further investigated via Density Functional Theory. The physicochemical properties of prepared nanomaterials were analysed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, High-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirming successful fabrication with improved surface properties. Experimental analyses, including antibacterial assays and morphological studies of bacterial cells demonstrates superior bactericidal properties of AuNRs@CuO nanocomposite compared to pristine CuO nanosheets. Furthermore, molecular docking score provide theoretical insights into the underlying mechanism governing the enhanced antibacterial activity, highlighting the favorable interaction with the bacterial cells. The synergistic effect of CuO nanosheets and AuNRs further improves the photocatalytic efficacy, culminating in a high-yield photocatalyst that achieves 98.7% degradation for Indigo carmine under Xenon lamp irradiation compared to 40.8% and 62.4% for AuNRs and CuO nanosheets alone. Improved charge separation and generation of H+ as major reactive oxygen species from the nanocomposite to Indigo carmine was revealed by radical scavenger activity and photoluminescence studies. After cycles of operation, the morphology and surface state of the photocatalyst remained unchanged, as investigated by FESEM and HRTEM analysis. The novelty of this study lies in the integration of AuNRs and CuO nanosheets as an efficient photocatalytic material for the remediation of toxic organic dyes in wastewater, presenting a promising advancement in sustainable water treatment technologies.

Synthesis and characterization of a novel dual sensitive iron nanoparticles incorporated Schiff base composite hydrogel for diabetic wound healing therapy

Chronic wounds in diabetic patients deteriorate into multiple infections. A multifunctional transdermal material with high self-healing ability, remodeling capability, antibacterial and radicle scavenging activity, and an excellent multi-sensitive carrier was needed to promote wound healing. For that, Oxidized Cellulose (OC) and gelatin (GLN) are selected to construct a dual drug-loaded Schiff base hydrogel with iron nanoparticle (IONPS) incorporation for the controlled and sustained release of Insulin (INS) and Metfomin (MET), which synergistically promote wound repair. The INS/MET-IONPS-OC/GLN hydrogel drug payload was characterized using FT-IR, XRD, DLS, ZETA, TG, FE-SEM, TEM, and VSM analysis. The high drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were 93.20 % and 98.8 % for INS and 90.2 % and 95.1 % for MET, respectively. The temperature-sensitive drug release (92.0 % of INS and 90.0 % of MET) percentage is much better than the pH-sensitive drug release (83.5 % of INS and 80.2 % of MET). Above 90.0 % viability in MTT and apoptosis assay reveals the nontoxic nature of the INS/MET-IONPS-OC/GLN towards L929 normal cell lines. The zone of inhibition value of 12 and 15 mm in gram-negative bacteria reveals the anti-bacterial effect. The antioxidant activity of the carrier shields the cells against reactive oxygen species promotes healing rate ensures by DPPH assay.The cell proliferation and angiogenesis were confirmed by scratch assay on L929 cell lines in diabetic and non-diabetic conditions, showing the healing ability of the INS/MET-IONPS-OC/GLN hydrogel.

The impact of transition metals (Cr, Mn, and Co) on the performance of the 10%Ni/Al2O3-10%CeO2 catalysts in combined CO2 reforming and partial oxidation of methane

This study explores the efficacy of Cr, Mn, and Co promoters in enhancing the performance of 10%Ni/Al2O3-10%CeO2 catalysts during methane combined reforming process, emphasizing improved metal dispersion and reduced carbon formation. The supports and catalysts were synthesized through mechanochemical and impregnation methods, respectively, and characterized using XRD, BET, TPR, TPO, and FESEM analyses. The synthesized catalysts exhibited a high BET surface area, ranging from 195 to 172 m2 g-1, along with a mesoporous structure characterized by pore sizes between 2 and 12 nm. The introduction of Cr significantly enhanced catalyst performance, resulting in 70.5 % CH4 and 69.1 % CO2 conversions in dry reforming. TPO analysis indicated reduced carbon deposition on promoted catalysts by enhancing Ni dispersion and carbon reactivity. The 10%Ni–3%Cr/Al2O3-10%CeO2 catalyst demonstrated stability over 440 min at 700 °C, achieving 84.9 % CH4 and 68.1 % CO2 conversions in combined reforming. The TPO analysis indicated an absence of carbon deposition on the catalyst surface during combined reforming, which was corroborated by the FESEM analysis. Furthermore, the influence of operating parameters on catalyst efficiency in both dry and combined reforming processes was investigated. As GHSV increased from 8000 to 24,000 ml/h.gcat, CH4 conversion declined in dry reforming and combined reforming, dropping from 77 % to 66 % and from 86 % to 84 %, respectively. Also, in both processes, increasing the oxidizer contents (CH4: CO2 from 2:1 to 1:2, CH4: CO2: O2 from 1:1:0 to 1:1:0.35) led to an increase in CH4 conversion, while CO2 conversion decreased.

Iron nanoparticle engineered N-doped graphitic carbon composite as a binary electrocatalyst for overall water splitting and supercapacitor

In this study, we report on the tailored synthesis of nitrogen-(N)-doped carbon and iron-(Fe)-loaded N-doped carbon composites and their use for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), overall electrochemical water splitting, and supercapacitors. FE-SEM and HR-TEM analyses reveal that the developed composite material exhibits a core-shell structure with enhanced porosity upon Fe incorporation. By adjusting the ratio of Fe to N-doped carbon in the composites, it was identified that the catalyst 5Fe@NC demonstrates outstanding electrochemical activity alongside commendable stability. Specifically, the 5Fe@NC electrocatalyst achieves current densities of +10 mAcm−2 and -10 mAcm−2 in alkaline electrolyte with minimal overpotentials of 376 mV and 520 mV, respectively. Notably, impressive Tafel slopes of 84 mV/dec and 212 mV/dec for the OER and HER were obtained, indicating superior kinetic activity of the developed composite materials. As a supercapacitor, 5Fe@NC electrode material exhibits a measurable specific capacitance of 294 F/g at 0.5 A/g current density with excellent durability (78 % retention after 1000 charge-discharge cycles). Furthermore, we conducted assessments on stability, charge transfer resistance, and ECSA, yielding excellent outcomes. This work successfully demonstrates a highly effective dual-purpose electrocatalyst prepared from indole and furfural (heterocycles abundant in biomass), exhibiting excellent electrochemical activity and stability in facilitating HER and OER within alkaline electrolytes.

Surface-coated PVDF@TAPEG selective ultrafiltration membranes: an investigation on membranes’ hydrophilicity, and antifouling characteristics for effective humic acid removal from wastewater

This research aimed to synthesize polyvinyl fluoride membranes and coat them with tannic acid (TA) nanoparticles and polyethylene glycol (PEG) additives so that the membrane’s removal efficacy for humic acid (HA) pollutant from agricultural wastewater was investigated. Thus, six membranes with PEG:TA ratios of 0:0, 1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 4:1, and 1:4 were synthesized. Then, the membranes’ characteristics were identified by FTIR-ATR, FESEM, and AFM analysis, and HA’s particle size and zeta potential were also investigated. Based on optimizing effective parameters, the operating pressure of 1.5 bar and HA concentration of 80 ppm were selected as optimal values. The membrane with PEG:TA = 4:1, as the optimally modified membrane, had a pure water flux of 446.03 L/m2.h, effluent flux of 72.43 L/m2.h, and pollutant removal rate of 86.62% at pH = 7 after 60 min had passed. These values for the pristine membrane (PEG:TA = 0:0) were 265.64 L/m2.h, 89.39 L/m2.h, and 75.59%, respectively. The results showed that although the effluent flux was lower in the optimized modified membrane than in the pristine membrane, HA removal percentage was increased.