Radial Distribution Function Analysis Research Articles

Atomistic molecular dynamics simulation and COSMO-SAC approach for enhanced 1,3-propanediol extraction with imidazolium-based ionic liquids.

1,3-Propanediol (1,3-PDO) is a key chemical in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and material sciences, and is projected to see significant market growth. However, the current challenges in its downstream processing, particularly in terms of cost and efficiency, highlight the need for innovative solutions. Our study delves into using ionic liquids (ILs) as a potential alternative, aiming to address these critical separation challenges more sustainably and efficiently. In this study, we utilized molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and the COSMO-SAC to examine 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) extraction using four imidazolium-based ionic liquids with 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium [Bmim] cation and with different anions bis(pentafluoroethanesulfonyl)imide [NPF2]-, bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide [NTF2]-, thiocyanate [SCN]-, and trifluoromethanesulfonate [TFO]-. Molecular dynamics simulations, incorporating analysis of radial distribution functions (RDF) and spatial distribution functions (SDF), revealed that [Bmim][SCN] and [Bmim][TFO] exhibit enhanced interactions with 1,3-PDO. Notably, [Bmim][SCN] formed the most hydrogen bonds, averaging 1.639 per molecule, due to its coordinating [SCN]- anion. This was in contrast to the fewer hydrogen bonds formed by non-coordinating anions in [Bmim][NPF2] and [Bmim][NTF2]. In ternary systems, [Bmim][SCN] and [Bmim][TFO] demonstrated superior selectivity for 1,3-PDO extraction compared to the other ionic liquids, with selectivity values around 29. These findings, supported by COSMO-SAC predictive modeling, highlight the potential of [Bmim][SCN] as a promising candidate for 1,3-PDO extraction, emphasizing the importance of anion selection in optimizing ionic liquid properties for this application. In our study, we employed MD simulations, incorporating the OPLS-AA force field, and COSMO-SAC to investigate the extraction of 1,3-PDO using imidazolium-based ionic liquids: [Bmim][NTF2], [Bmim][NPF2], [Bmim][SCN], and [Bmim][TFO]. The MD simulations were conducted using LAMMPS software, focusing on elucidating the RDF, SDF, and hydrogen bonding. Analysis of the distribution coefficient (β) and selectivity (S) for the ternary mixture was also conducted. These aspects of the simulation were analyzed using TRAVIS and VMD software. Additionally, the COSMO-SAC model was employed to determine the activity coefficients of 1,3-PDO in the ionic liquids, with molecular optimization conducted using Gaussian16 and sigma profile calculations performed using COSMO-SAC.

Design of SBS molecular structure and contribution mechanism from its soft and hard segments to modify asphalt

ABSTRACT The excellent performance of SBS-modified asphalt is attributed to the release of the SBS soft segment (PB segment) and hard segment (PS segment) in the asphalt. The release mechanism of the SBS soft and hard segments was studied using MD simulation and laboratory experiments, and the optimal molecular structure of SBS for asphalt modification was determined. MD simulation results revealed that SBS with a higher PS content exhibited better compatibility with asphalt. The larger and stronger molecular aggregates of the PS segment improved the high-temperature shear resistance of the asphalt but reduced the molecular mobility of the system. Additionally, radial distribution function analysis showed varying degrees of aggregation behaviour of asphaltenes with different segment ratios of polymer modifiers. Laboratory experiments were conducted using synthetically prepared SBS modifiers with specific segment ratios, as well as PB and PS monomer modifiers. Conventional tests and rheological experiments indicated that the PB segment improved the low-temperature performance of the asphalt, while the PS segment enhanced its high-temperature performance. The experimental results of the Cole–Cole plots are consistent with the solubility parameter results. Morphological studies revealed a two-phase continuous structure formed between SBS and asphalt when the SBS segment ratio was approximately 30/70.

Morphological, Structural and Electronic properties of Zinc Oxide Nano Structures Deposited on ZnO Substrate Layer–A Theoretical Perspective

The work investigates the deposition of zinc and oxygen atoms on a Zinc terminated ZnO substrate, maintaining their stoichiometric ratio (O:Zn) at 0.8, under varying incident energies (0.5eV and 5eV) and temperatures (300K and 700K) using the ReaxFF potential in Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation. The study explores the impact of deposition conditions on growth mechanisms, film morphology, and structural parameters such as Radial Distribution Function (RDF) and Coordination Number (CN). RDF analysis highlights disordered atomic arrangements and diverse bonding configurations within the film, with CN showing deviations from perfect crystalline ZnO, indicating non-uniform, non-crystalline, and nano behaviour. Post-heating the films to temperatures approaching the ZnO melting point results in enhanced crystallinity, as evidenced by distinct, dominant, and multiple RDF peaks. Density Functional Theory (DFT) approach of the deposited structures elucidates the formation of ZnO nanoclusters-(ZnO)3 and (ZnO)4 and investigates their electronic structure properties. DFT analysis of the post-heated films reveals the formation of ZnO monomers (ZnO), indicating an approaching crystalline behaviour, yet the films exhibit non-epitaxial and non-uniform characteristics. DFT calculations were instrumental in validating the observed structural behaviours in the deposited films. The study underscores the significance of stoichiometric ratio in film deposition and demonstrates the temperature-dependent evolution of structural properties towards crystallinity, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of ZnO film growth offering tailored control over film properties for enhanced performance in practical applications such as optoelectronics and gas sensing.

Evaluating solvent efficiency for carbon capture: Comparative analysis of temperature, concentration and diffusivity effects

In the pursuit of efficient carbon capture technologies, the selection and design of solvents play a pivotal role, directly impacting various crucial factors such as CO2 absorption capacity, equipment size, and regeneration energy requirements. The primary focus is on optimizing solvent systems through a comprehensive analysis of intermolecular interaction intensity, diffusion coefficient, and intra-molecular interaction intensity. This study employs a molecular dynamics simulation model to identify the most suitable solvent system by assessing the effect of operating variables like temperature, concentration, interaction intensity, and diffusivity of various single and blended amine systems. The assessment utilizes the radial distribution function and mean square displacement analysis. The results indicate that intermolecular interactions with CO2 are most significant in 30 wt% 2EAE, 40 wt% 2DMAE and 10% DMCA with 20% MCA ratio concentrations. TMPAD, in particular, stands out for its high repulsive interaction and low energy requirement for breaking the carbamate/bicarbonate ion. Diffusion behavior in various observed solvent systems is as follows: EAE > MEA > DMAE > MAE-DEAB > MAE-DMA2P > EAE-TMPAD > AMP-PZ > EAE-DEAB > MAE-TMPAD > EAE-DMA2P > MAE-DMAE > EAE-DMAE > TMPAD > MEA-AMP > DMA2P > DMCA-MCA > DEAB > MEA-PZ. Moreover, elevated temperatures facilitate enhanced diffusivity, leading to accelerated mass transfer rates. This implies the possibility of reducing the size of absorber units and lowering energy consumption. Further studies on heat of absorption and kinetic characteristics of solvent blends are necessary to ensure their practical applicability in carbon capture and industrial operations.

The influence of anions in the ionic liquid-water mixtures on the conformational structures of emeraldine base and emeraldine salt form of polyaniline

The development of antifouling membranes for water filtration applications is challenging. Conducting polymers can show enhanced antifouling characteristics by blending with various polymers, nanomaterials, and Ionic liquids (ILs). In this paper, we perform an all-atom molecular dynamics simulation on a conducting polymer polyaniline (PANI) immersed in IL-water mixtures. Two forms of PANI were considered, namely Emeraldine base (EB) and Emeraldine salt (ES) as well as two different water-mixed ILs are considered namely (a) 1-ethyl-3-methyl imidazolium [EMIM]+ hexafluorophosphate [PF6]- and (b) 1-ethyl-3-methyl imidazolium [EMIM]+ tetra-fluoroborate [BF4]-. We present various intra- and inter-molecular structural properties, solvation thermodynamics, and dynamic properties. We observe that with an increase in IL concentration, the radius of gyration (Rg) value shows a decrease for ES in pure state in both ILs; on the other hand, we see a minimal increase in the Rg values of EB in both ILs. The dihedral angle distribution analysis shows a combination of gauche and trans state for ES, whereas trans state is more pronounced for the case of EB in both water-IL mixtures. The radial distribution function (RDF) analysis between the ortho, meta carbons of the benzene rings, and the amine groups on ES with [BF4]- and [PF6]- show significant structural peaks. On the other hand, EB and ES show lower interaction with the water molecules. The number of hydrogen bonds (h-bonds) between polymer and water is higher for EB than ES in both IL-water mixtures. The hydrogen bond lifetime (τ) values show one-fold higher values for EB than ES. The self-diffusion coefficient (D) values of water show a decrease with an increase in IL concentration. The thermodynamic properties solvation enthalpy (ΔH) and excess molar volume (VmE) for both ES and EB show a more favorable solvation in [EMIM]+[BF4]- when compared to [EMIM]+[PF6]- with an increase in IL concentration. These observations are crucial for selecting ILs and designing sustainable polymers for antifouling membranes.

Solid-liquid equilibrium of forchlorfenuron in four binary solvents: Experiments, hansen solubility parameter and molecular simulation

In this research, the solubility of forchlorfenuron in 4 binary solvent systems {(methanol, ethanol, n-propanol and acetone) + water} was determined at certain experimental conditions (pressure of 101.3 kPa, temperature of 278.15 K-323.15 K) using laser dynamic monitoring method. Five thermodynamic models were applied to correlate and analyze the experimentally measured data. The modified Apelblat model has the lowest value of ARD (100ARD = 2.046 %) indicates that it fits best. The apparent thermodynamic properties during the dissolution process of forchlorfenuron in the four mixed solvent systems were explored using Van't Hoff equation. The effect of solvent properties on the dissolution was explored by calculating Hansen solubility parameters. For further understanding the solubility behavior on the molecular scale, molecular electrostatic potential analysis and Hirshfeld surface analysis were conducted to visualize the molecular surface charge distribution and predict the contact behavior between forchlorfenuron and solvent. Finally, the influence of intermolecular interactions between solute and solvent on solubility behavior was explored using radial distribution function analysis based on molecular dynamics simulations. And the results show the stronger intermolecular force corresponds to the larger solubility.

Study on the liquid–liquid phase separation phenomenon of iohexol in a binary mixed solvent of methanol and n-butanol: Thermodynamic behavior and molecular dynamics calculation

The impact of oiling-out on the control of the crystallization purification process during iohexol crystallization is significant. Thus, the solubility of iohexol and its oiling-out behavior in a binary solvent mixture of methanol and n-butanol was investigated in this study. The solubility was determined using the equilibrium method at temperatures ranging from 273.15 K to 303.15 K under atmospheric pressure, revealing that solubility increases with temperature and methanol concentration. Four models were employed to model the solubility data, with the CNIBS/R-K model demonstrating the highest correlation. The van't Hoff equation was utilized to calculate the thermodynamic properties, the result indicating that enthalpy predominates in the dissolution process. Furthermore, ternary phase diagrams were constructed to elucidate the nucleation mechanism of iohexol, identifying nucleation sites and performing kinetic simulations from a molecular perspective. These analyses indicated that lower temperatures are favor the control of oiling-out phenomena. The nucleation of iohexol is characterized by a two-step mechanism, initiating with liquid–liquid separation, followed by nucleation and crystal growth. Solubility parameters, derived using Materials Studio, suggest enhanced interactions between iohexol and methanol, which is also corroborated by the solvation energy data from Gaussian software. This interaction explains the tendency of iohexol to oiling out in mixed solvents. Radial distribution function (RDF) analysis illustrates that methanol-iohexol interactions intensify prior to oiling-out, reach a peak during oiling-out, and diminish after nucleation due to desolvation. The occurrence of oiling-out can lead to challenges such as diminished product quality, reduced yields, and difficulties in reprocessing. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of oiling-out is fundamental to addressing these issues, rendering these insights invaluable for the study of crystallization processes and oiling out phenomena in other small organic molecules.

Experimental and simulation study on the solubility of 1-naphthylamine in twelve neat solvents

To meet the demand of separating and purifying 1-naphthylamine from the reaction production and filling the solubility data gap, the solubility of 1-naphthylamine in twelve pure solvents (acetone, acetonitrile, ethyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, cyclohexane, n-heptane, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, iso-propanol, n-butanol, and iso-butanol) was experimentally investigated in the range from 273.15 K to 308.15 K. It was found that the solubility of 1-naphthylamine increases markedly with increasing temperature in all solvent systems. The maximum solubility was 0.8978 (in the solvent of acetone,T = 308.15 K) and the minimum solubility was 0.005485 (in the solvent of n-heptane, T = 273.15 K). Then the experimental solubility data was correlated by the modified Apelblat model, Van't Hoff model, NRTL model, Wilson model, and Margules model. ARD% was calculated to assess the accuracy of the five equations and the results indicated that the modified Apelblat model fits optimally with an average ARD% value of 1.62 %. The effects of various physicochemical properties such as solvent polarity, hydrogen bond donor, hydrogen bond acceptor, and cohesive energy density on solute dissolution behavior were explored. In addition, the apparent thermodynamic properties of 1-naphthylamine in different solvents were analyzed based on modified Van’t Hoff model, which indicated the dissolution process of 1-naphthylamine in selected solvents is endothermic and entropy-driving. Finally, the effect of intermolecular interactions on the dissolution behavior was investigated at the molecular scale through molecular dynamics simulation studies, including molecular electrostatic potential surface, solvation free energy and radial distribution function analysis. This work will provide a fundamental guidance for the crystallization, separation, and purification of 1-naphthylamine.

Numerical Analysis of Non-Sphericity of Particles of Powder Material and their Effect on Packing Structure for Concentrated Solar Power Applications

Concentrated solar power technology represents a novel approach to generating solar power, characterized by high solar radiation density and uninterrupted operation. To store thermal energy and extend system operating hours, concentrated solar power systems rely on thermal energy storage. Selecting the appropriate heat storage media is crucial for designing a cost-efficient and straightforward system capable of withstanding high processing conditions. Among many powder materials, bauxite powder stands out as alternatives to conventional molten salt for thermal storage media due to its widespread availability and suitability for operating conditions. Particle shape, particularly its sphericity, plays a vital role in efficiently packing particles which directly affects to heat transfer properties. To investigate this effect, three samples of particles with different shape were formed: spheres, ellipses, and cylinders using Discrete Element Method with equal volume and material properties, and only variation of their sphericity factors. The study focused on the analysis of the porosity of the packed bed of particles with different shapes and its influence on the packing structure properties. The analysis of local packing fraction revealed that elliptical and cylindrical particles samples exhibited reduced heap formation and a more uniform distribution along z direction during vertical packing. The coordination number and radial distribution function analyses for these non-spherical particles showed a greater number of contacts between particles and disordered distribution of particles due to mechanical interlocking of non-spherical particles. The results indicated that the deviation of sphericity has a positive impact on the denser packing of particles generated more contacts and higher local packing fraction.

Hydrophilicity of Organically Modified Montmorillonite and Effect on Benzene Adsorption by the Molecular Dynamics Method.

Interlayer modification of layered materials with organocations has been known to endow the nanocomposite with hydrophobicity, and adsorption of aromatic compounds in the aqueous phase has been investigated for decades by using montmorillonite, a representative layered clay mineral, as the host material. Usage of the organocation has been believed to be effective due to the π-π interaction with the aromatic adsorbate, the presence of which is not verified spectroscopically in the water-immersed state. Considering that the organocation is generally regarded as a pillar to keep the interlayer space, the interaction between the organocation and adsorbate has not yet been clarified sufficiently. In the present study, we revealed the role of the organocation by the molecular dynamics method, where tetramethylammonium (TMA) and trimethylphenylammonium (TMPA) ions were selected as the representative and simple organocations, and benzene was the adsorbate to exclude the effect of the substitution group. Both H2O and benzene molecules were introduced in the interlayer of TMA- or TMPA-modified montmorillonite to model the water-immersed adsorption structure. It was found that H2O is preferentially distributed on the clay surface, followed by the center of the interlayer when the amount of H2O is large. In the adsorption model, benzene was vertically adsorbed on the clay surface. Radial distribution function analysis revealed that benzene is distributed around both the methyl and the phenyl groups in the TMA and TMPA cations, but the orientation of the phenyl ring is not consistent with that of benzene. Thus, benzene was found not to form the π-π interaction in montmorillonite modified with the TMPA cations in the water-immersed state. Furthermore, the surface was partly covered with the phenyl group in the TMPA cation, decreasing the adsorption area. Therefore, the experimental suggestion that benzene is adsorbed on the clay surface was reproduced by our simulation, and the interaction between the organocation and benzene and surface occupancy should be paid attention to maximize the adsorption property.

Investigation of Rational Design of Amine Solvents for CO2 Capture: A Computational Approach

Solvent selection and design are critical in the CO2 capture process as the choice of solvent directly impacts the cost of the process, capture efficiency, equipment size, and regeneration energy. In the present study, 1MPZ-PZ, PZ, PIP, DEEA and MEA-DEEA are analyzed in terms of interaction intensity (attractive and repulsive) and diffusivity by molecular dynamic simulation. A high intermolecular interaction intensity promotes CO2 absorption, while intra-molecular interaction intensity affects CO2 desorption during the regeneration process. Diffusivity is also an important factor for a fast CO2 uptake rate, which is desirable for efficient CO2 capture. The interpretation of diffusivity and intermolecular interaction intensity findings is conducted through mean square displacement and radial distribution function analysis, respectively. The order of interaction intensity in various amines is DEEA>MEA-DEEA>PIP>1MPZ-PZ. It shows that DEEA can increase the CO2 absorption rate as it shows the highest interaction intensity in pure and blended amine systems. The results of the intramolecular interaction intensity show that it is easier to regenerate DEEA, PIP, PZ, and 1MPZ than MEA. The temperature effect on the interaction intensity is revealed at higher temperatures, where the molecular structure becomes unstable due to higher thermal motion, which is the cause of lower interaction intensity. On the other hand, the mean square displacement analysis for the diffusivity rate shows that PZ shows the highest diffusivity rate compared to other selected solvents. The order of diffusivity rate in various pure and blended amine systems is PZ>PIP>1-MPZ-PZ>MEA-DEEA. The diffusivity of various amine solvent systems increases with temperature. As examined in this current research, assessing solvent characteristics holds significant importance in optimizing the most effective solvent system.

Exploring the mechanisms of diazinon adsorption onto alpha and beta cyclodextrins through molecular dynamics simulations: Insights into environmentally friendly pesticide remediation

This study investigated the adsorption of Diazinon on α and β-Cyclodextrins (CDs) through Molecular Dynamics Simulations. The entrance point variation in diazinon adsorption is analyzed, revealing distinct preferences for entry into α and β-CDs. The center of mass distance of diazinon and CDs is investigated, highlighting the dynamic behavior within β-CD. Interaction energies between diazinon, CD, and water are explored, emphasizing the significance of van der Waals interactions in diazinon adsorption. Hydrogen bonding analysis reveals preferential adsorption of diazinon on α-CD, attributed to the number and arrangement of hydrogen bonds. Free energy calculations using the Bennett acceptance ratio method indicate a stronger affinity of diazinon for α-CD, supported by molecular electrostatic potential maps. The study also examines the hydration capacity and water molecules' distribution, indicating differences between α and β-CD. Radial distribution function analysis (RDF) illustrates the adsorption process, emphasizing water molecule expulsion upon diazinon entry. Structural stability is assessed through root mean squared deviation, indicating equilibrium attainment. Gibbs free energy calculations suggest stronger hydrophobic interactions in the α-CD cavity. This comprehensive analysis contributes valuable insights into the MD of diazinon-CDs interactions, shedding light on their adsorption mechanisms and potential applications in wastewater treatment.

Structural studies of amorphous polymer films: Experiment and calculation

To analyze X-ray diffraction patterns obtained from polyimide films subjected to external influence (uniaxial tension and exposure at liquid helium temperature), radial distribution function (RDF) curves were constructed and the geometry of the 4,4′-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitimide monomer (PM) was calculated. From the RDF analysis, it follows that uniaxial tension of PM polymer films leads to a change in the geometry of the monomer, and exposure at low temperatures leads to mutual ordering of the polymer chains.

Structural and thermal analyses in semiconducting and metallic zigzag single-walled carbon nanotubes using molecular dynamics simulations.

Equilibrium molecular dynamics (EMD) simulations have been performed to investigate the structural analysis and thermal conductivity (λ) of semiconducting (8,0) and metallic (12,0) zigzag single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) for varying ±γ(%) strains. For the first time, the present outcomes provide valuable insights into the relationship between the structural properties of zigzag SWCNTs and corresponding thermal behavior, which is essential for the development of high-performance nanocomposites. The radial distribution function (RDF) has been employed to assess the buckling and deformation understandings of the (8,0) and (12,0) SWCNTs for a wide range of temperature T(K) and varying ±γ(%) strains. The visualization of SWCNTs shows that the earlier buckling and deformation processes are observed for semiconducting SWCNTs as compared to metallic SWCNTs for high T(K) and it also evident through an abrupt increase in RDF peaks. The RDF and visualization analyses demonstrate that the (8,0) SWCNTs can more tunable under compressive than tensile strains, however, the (12,0) zigzag SWCNTs indicate an opposite trend and may tolerate more tensile than compressive strains. Investigations show that the tunable domain of ±γ(%) strains decreases from (-10%≤ γ ≤+19%) to (-5%≤ γ ≤+10%) for (8,0) SWCNTs and the buckling process shifts to lower ±γ(%) for (12,0) SWCNTs with increasing T(K). For intermediate-high T(K), the λ(T) of (12,0) SWCNTs is high but the (8,0) SWCNTs show certainly high λ(T) for low T(K). The present λ(T, ±γ) data are in reasonable agreement with parts of previous NEMD, GK-HNEMD data and experimental investigations with simulation results generally under predicting the λ(T, ±γ) by the ∼1% to ∼20%, regardless of the ±γ(%) strains, depending on T(K). Our simulation data significantly expand the strain range to -10% ≤ γ ≤ +19% for both zigzag SWCNTs, depending on temperature T(K). This extension of the range aims to establish a tunable regime and delve into the intrinsic characteristics of zigzag SWCNTs, building upon previous work.

Oil Detachment Mechanism in Natural Surfactant Flooding from Silica Surface: Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Summary International regulations have compelled Europe and the United States to phase out certain traditional surfactants to mitigate the use of toxic and nonbiodegradable chemicals. Sodium cocoyl propionate (SCA), as a natural surfactant with high performance, has been proved to have the potential to replace traditional surfactants in previous studies. However, its performance has not fully met practical application requirements. Therefore, in this paper, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was used to study the detachment behavior and mechanism of SCA, lauryl dimethylamine oxide (OA-12), emulsifier OP-10, and SOO (combination of SCA, OA-12, and OP-10) on crude oil (dodecane, C12) at different temperatures (80–120°C) and salinities (20 000–200 000 mg/L). The complex interaction mechanism between surfactant molecules and C12 molecules was revealed by analyzing the simulated snapshot, radial distribution function (RDF), mean square displacement (MSD), and interaction energy. The simulated snapshot captures the conformational evolution of surfactant molecules at different time points, emphasizing the spatiotemporal and spatial changes of their dynamic behavior. A comparison of two desorption modes reveals that dispersive adsorption displacement and concentrated adsorption displacement are two possible desorption mechanisms. RDF analysis shows that the probability of SOO molecules near C12 remains high even at high-salinity and -temperature conditions. MSD analysis showed that the diffusion capacity of SOO was the highest at 100°C, reaching 1.52867×10 –5 cm2/ps. The calculation of interaction energy results reveals that SOO has a strong adsorption capacity for C12, which is mainly due to the effect of van der Waals (vdW) force. This is because the C12 molecules are inert, and their molecular movement is mainly determined by the polar groups of the surfactant. The main contribution of this study is to provide a natural surfactant with superior performance as a viable alternative, offering experimental settings for further improvement in SCA performance. This research provides theoretical guidance for on-site applications of SCA and SOO to enhance oil recovery.

Monophasic coamorphous sulpiride: a leap in physicochemical attributes and dual inhibition of GlyT1 and P-glycoprotein, supported by experimental and computational insights

Study aimed to design and development of a supramolecular formulation of sulpiride (SUL) to enhance its solubility, dissolution and permeability by targeting a novel GlyT1 inhibition mechanism. SUL is commonly used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, migraine, anti-emetic, anti-depressive and anti-dyspeptic conditions. Additionally, Naringin (NARI) was incorporated as a co-former to enhance the drug’s intestinal permeability by targeting P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux inhibition. NARI, a flavonoid has diverse biological activities, including anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aims to design and develop a supramolecular formulation of SUL with NARI to enhance its solubility, dissolution, and permeability by targeting a novel GlyT1 inhibition mechanism, extensive experimental characterization was performed using solid-state experimental techniques in conjunction with a computational approach. This approach included quantum mechanics-based molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and density functional theory (DFT) studies to investigate intermolecular interactions, phase transformation and various electronic structure-based properties. The findings of the miscibility study, radial distribution function (RDF) analysis, quantitative simulations of hydrogen/π–π bond interactions and geometry optimization aided in comprehending the coamorphization aspects of SUL-NARI Supramolecular systems. Molecular docking and MD simulation were performed for detailed binding affinity assessment and target validation. The solubility, dissolution and ex-vivo permeability studies demonstrated significant improvements with 31.88-fold, 9.13-fold and 1.83-fold increments, respectively. Furthermore, biological assessments revealed superior neuroprotective effects in the SUL-NARI coamorphous system compared to pure SUL. In conclusion, this study highlights the advantages of a drug-nutraceutical supramolecular formulation for improving the solubility and permeability of SUL, targeting novel schizophrenia treatment approaches through combined computational and experimental analyses. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Effects of pectin and temperature on the diffusion of ions and water in saltwater membranes

In this study, we investigate the structural and dynamical characteristics of the biopolymer pectin, exploring its impact on ion transport, diffusion activation energy, and relaxation timescales within a saltwater environment (100 mM NaCl (aq.)) using classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Our analysis of radial distribution functions (g(r)) reveals a notable preference of Na+ ions to interact more extensively with pectin compared to Cl– ions. Moreover, we observe slight variations in the strength of inter-ion interactions, with a modest decrease in ion-pectin interaction strength with increased pectin loading. Additionally, our findings indicate that sodium exhibits the lowest diffusion coefficient due to the presence of significant energy barriers among Na+, Cl–, and water molecules, following the sequence: D(water) > D(Cl–) > D(Na+) at any pectin loading and temperature conditions within pectin-saltwater membranes. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that viscosity, ion-pair relaxation timescales and ion-cage relaxation timescales exhibit monotonic increases with pectin loading while displaying the opposite trend with temperature. Overall, our simulations strongly endorse the use of biopolymer pectin as a highly promising and innovative option for a wide range of industrial applications, including flexible hydrogel electrolytes and saline water treatment.

Layering Ni to mediate the Kirkendall effect (KE) in cu/ta nonequilibrium diffusion for enhanced abrasion resistance

This study delves into the KE occurring at the interface of the Cu/Ta system during thermal diffusion, along with the mediating impact of integrating a Ni interlayer on the nonequilibrium diffusion of Cu/Ta. In the Cu/Ta system, nonequilibrium thermal diffusion results in the generation and aggregation of Cu side Kirkendall voids (KVs). In the Cu/Ni/Ta system, the Ni interlayer ensures the equilibrium of system atom migration through the movement and annihilation of vacancies, thereby enhancing the bonding between the layers. Calculations of interdiffusion coefficients using the Boltzmann-Matano (B-M) method reveal that interdiffusion coefficients at the coating-substrate interface are 4–5 orders of magnitude higher for the Cu/Ta system compared to the Cu/Ni/Ta system. The analysis of mean square displacement (MSD) and radial distribution function (RDF) provides insights into the role of the Ni interlayer as a potential barrier mediating the atomic-level diffusion behavior of the system. Moreover, the Cu/Ni coating exhibits superior abrasion resistance and bond strength compared to the Cu coating, attributed to the inhibition of KVs generation at the interface. This exploration introduces a novel approach to inhibit defects stemming from the KE and advances comprehension of interfacial phenomena in composites.

The Effect of Solvents on the Crystal Morphology of Isosorbide Mononitrate and Its Molecular Mechanisms.

In this work, the modified attachment energy model was used to predict the crystal morphology of isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) in the dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) solvent system and dichloromethane-n-hexane (CH2Cl2-C6H14) mixed solvent system. The solvent effect can significantly affect the crystal morphology, which can profoundly impact both the drug's physicochemical properties and the subsequent technological treatment process. In addition, the interactions between solvent molecules and crystal faces were investigated using molecular dynamics simulation, and radial distribution function (RDF) analysis was performed to determine the types of interactions. The structural parameter S was introduced to characterize the roughness of each crystal surface; the change in the CH2Cl2 diffusion coefficient before and after the addition of C6H14 was analyzed using mean square displacement (MSD). The calculation results of the modified attachment energy from the two solvent systems revealed that C6H14 could accelerate crystal growth, while the crystal morphology was not greatly affected, which is of some significance as a guide for the industrial crystallization process.

Effect of Solute on Interfacial Properties and Micelle Structure of Dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS): Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Studies.

A combined experimental and molecular dynamic simulation approach was used to examine the structure and interfacial properties of solute-saturated micelles. The properties of dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS) micelles were examined in dodecane and benzene hydrocarbon systems. Pyrene fluorescence was used to determine the aggregation number of surfactant monomers in the micelle systems. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations using energy minimization applying the CHARMm force field with the TIP3P model for water. Comparison of the DBS/benzene and DBS/Dodecane micelles equilibrium structures via radial distribution function (RDF) and probability distribution function (PDF) analysis indicates that the area per head group for the DBS/Benzene micelle interface is significantly larger than that of the DBS/Dodecane at the interface. It was also determined that benzene molecules can move freely within the micelle while dodecane is strictly confined in the core of the micelle. The increased interfacial area per monomer caused by the insertion of benzene also reduces the effectiveness of the surfactant, which has implications for use in various environmental applications. However, the DBS/benzene micelle can solubilize many more hydrocarbon molecules in one micelle with less surfactant monomer (i.e., lower aggregation number) per micelle due to the increased available packing positions within the micelle. This, in turn, increases the efficiency of the surfactant in real-world applications which is consistent with previous laboratory results. Understanding the differing solubilization characteristics of surfactants against various classes of hydrocarbons in single solute systems is a necessary step to beginning to understand their solubilization properties in the mixed waste systems prevalent in most surfactant enhanced remediation (SEAR) strategies.