Diverse Environmental Applications Research Articles

Efficient Fluorocarbons Capture Using Radical-Containing Covalent Triazine Frameworks.

Efficiently capturing fluorocarbons, potent greenhouse gases with high global warming potentials (GWP), remains a daunting challenge due to limited effective approaches for constructing high-performance adsorbents. To tackle this issue, we have pioneered a novel strategy of developing radical porous materials as effective adsorbents for fluorocarbon capture. The resulting radical covalent triazine framework (CTF), CTF-azo-R, shows exceptional fluorocarbon (perfluorohexane, a representative model pollutant among fluorocarbons) uptake capacity of 270 wt %, a record-high value among all porous materials reported to date. Spectral characteristics, experimental studies, and theoretical calculations indicate that the presence of stable radicals in CTF-azo-R contributes to its superior fluorocarbon capture performance. Furthermore, CTF-azo-R demonstrates exceptionally high chemical and thermal stabilities that fully meet the requirements for practical applications in diverse environments. Our work not only establishes radical CTF-azo-R as a promising candidate for fluorocarbon capture but also introduces a novel approach for constructing advanced fluorocarbon adsorbents by incorporating radical sites into porous materials. This strategy paves the way for the development of radical adsorbents, fostering advancements in both fluorocarbon capture and the broader field of adsorption and separation.

Green Engineered CuO/SnO2/HNT Composites: Illuminating the Photocatalytic Path for Organic Pollutant Remediation and Zebrafish Embryo Toxicity Evaluation.

Photocatalysis stands out as a promising technique for treating organic contaminants, yet the quest for visible light active composite materials, crafted through cost-effective, eco-friendly, and uncomplicated processes, poses formidable challenges. Here, we introduce a successful endeavor, the synthesis of a CuO/SnO2 (CS) composite via a microwave method, employing Carissa edulis fruit extract as a reducing as well as capping agent. Various loadings of CS-HNT composites were prepared by ultrasonically incorporating CS onto nanotubular halloysite (HNT) clay. Employing a suite of types of characterization, including XRD, XPS, FT-IR, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, ζ potential, UV-vis-DRS, TGA, BET, and EIS, we meticulously explored the morphology, structure, stability, surface area, electrochemical, and optical properties of the developed CS-HNT composites. HR-TEM observations unveiled the formation of a heterojunction between cubic CuO and spherical SnO2 on the HNT clay surface. Optical and EIS analysis highlighted that the 20CS-HNT composite displayed significant absorption in the visible region, efficient electron-hole pair separation, and enhanced interfacial charge transport relative to other loadings. Photocatalytic evaluations and optimization studies revealed that the 20CS-HNT photocatalyst achieved notable removal efficiencies, eliminating 85% of Congo red (CR) and 80% of tetracycline (TC) within 90 min and 74% of ATZ in 3 h under visible light conditions. Scavenging investigations, the fluorescence probe method, and a NBT transformation study underscored the pivotal roles of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals in pollutant removal. The reusability trials highlighted the exceptional stability and recyclability of the photocatalyst, even after five cycles. In addition, zebrafish embryo toxicity tests revealed improved survival and hatching rates in photocatalyst-treated samples compared to those of controls. Moderate toxicity was observed in treated TC, while the treated CR sample showed non-lethal toxicity. In essence, this study unveils a straightforward and efficacious approach for developing photocatalysts for large-scale wastewater treatment. Furthermore, it proposes the adoption of safe clay-based bimetal oxide photocatalysts in diverse environmental applications.

Fiber optic temperature sensor based on Vernier effect generated by a linear sagnac interferometer in parallel with a Fabry-Perot interferometer

A novel fiber-optic temperature sensor based on a Linear Sagnac Interferometer (LSI) in parallel with a Fabry-Pérot Interferometer (FPI) has been developed. This sensor leverages the superposition of the FPI and LSI to generate a Vernier effect. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that within the temperature range of 40 °C–50 °C, the temperature sensitivity of the parallel structure reaches 13.27 nm/°C, aligning well with theoretical predictions. Notably, when the LSI and Circular Sagnac Interferometer (CSI) exhibit identical temperature sensitivities and free spectral ranges (FSR), the length of the LSI is only half that of the CSI. The LSI is constructed from a single segment of Panda fiber and does not form a loop. Consequently, this sensor is simpler and easier to manufacture compared to conventional CSI sensors, offering significant advantages in structural simplicity and fabrication efficiency. This makes the proposed sensor a valuable reference for sensing applications in diverse environments.

Low-Temperature Water Electrolysis Under a Sustained pH-Gradient for Electrochemically-Induced Decarbonation of Limestone into Hydrated Lime

Lime holds considerable potential in diverse environmental applications. However, its current production remains highly carbon-intensive, emitting more than one ton of CO2 per ton of lime. To address this issue, recent studies have explored the concept of electrifying the decarbonation of limestone to produce hydrated lime. In this work, a two-compartment electrolysis cell capable of producing Ca(OH)2 has been tested at different currents. Precise pH and Ca2+ concentration measurements demonstrate that the electrolysis setup is able to dissolve CaCO3 and precipitate Ca(OH)2 with near-perfect efficiencies. Notably, it highlights that Faraday’s law and the concept of transport number can be applied to predict both the equilibrium and kinetic behavior of each step of the process in each of the two cell compartments. Moreover, the use of controlled batch additions of CaCO3 in the system, as opposed to one-time excess addition, was assessed to mitigate the fouling of the cationic exchange membrane used to separate the compartments. Finally, based on the experimental findings, key guidelines are proposed to achieve a perfect reaction stoichiometry for each step. These findings pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to lime production.

Ultra low RIN, low threshold AlGaInAs/InP BH-DFB laser

This study presents a comparative analysis of DFB lasers based on AlGaInAs/InP heterostructures, exploring the impact of different groove shapes and cavity lengths on laser output characteristics. Leveraging the vertical groove structure, we achieved a remarkable laser output of 90mW at 25°C. Compared to lasers without grooves, this represents a 3.6-fold increase in output power, coupled with an impressively low threshold current of only 4mA. In addition, we conducted a study on the temperature stability of the laser, revealing that even at elevated temperatures of 85°C, the laser maintains an edge mode suppression ratio of over 45dB. This demonstrates the robustness and reliability of the laser over a wide range of operating conditions, further enhancing its suitability for practical applications in diverse environments. Upon packaging the chip into a butterfly shape, we observed a significant reduction in relative intensity noise, with values below -162.8 dB/Hz across the frequency range of 0-40 GHz, while operating at an output power of 3mW. These findings underscore the robustness, reliability, and high-performance capabilities of the developed DFB laser, highlighting its potential for various practical applications.

Development and validation of the core life activities scale.

Life activities profoundly influence well-being, mental health, and quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the importance of monitoring these activities for psychological and emotional health. However, existing measurement tools are limited, particularly for assessing psychological health. To address this gap, we developed and validated the Core Life Activities (CORE) scale, comprising five key factors (sleep, exercise, learning, diet, and social relationships) identified in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and gerontology. In Study 1 (n = 1,137), exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a single-factor structure with good model fit (χ2 = 6.377, df = 3, TLI = 0.992, CFI = 0.998, RMSEA = 0.031), demonstrating robust internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.776) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.522, p < 0.001). The CORE exhibited significant convergent validity with mental health screening tools for depressive and anxiety disorders and suicidality. Study 2 (n = 684) confirmed a significant correlation between CORE and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life Brief Version, complementing the convergent validity found in Study 1. In addition, discriminant validity was confirmed by a non-significant correlation with the COVID-19 Preventive Behavior Scale. The findings establish the CORE as a reliable and valid tool, offering a simple yet comprehensive measure for assessing core life activities with potential applications in diverse environments.

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SATELLITE IMAGE RESOLUTIONS FOR DETECTING PEST DAMAGE IN SUNFLOWER FIELDS

Abstract. The diversity of sensors in remote sensing allows for faster and easier detection of changes and issues across different scales, in contrast to conventional ground-based systems. One of the most important distinguishing features among these sensors is their varying resolutions, contributing to the versatility of remote sensing technologies across diverse environmental applications. In this study, the effectiveness of PlanetScope and Sentinel-2 satellite images with different image resolutions in detecting damage caused by a harmful insect (beet webworm moth - Loxostege sticticalis) in sunflower fields in Lüleburgaz district of Kırklareli in the Trace region was evaluated. Damage rates in sunflower fields were analyzed using various spectral indices (Enhanced Vegetation Index and Chlorophyll Index Green) and spectral transformation (Tasseled Cap Greenness) in conjunction with in situ data. Based on the spectral analysis, the satellite image dated 26 July, which showed the most severe damage, was used in the damage assessment analysis. The damaged areas were compared by classifying both satellite images with the Random Forest algorithm. According to the results of the classification accuracy assessment, PlanetScope satellite imagery showed the highest accuracy, with 90% overall accuracy and 84% Kappa statistics, making it a more suitable sensor choice for agricultural applications.

Efficient photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics by binary heterojunction complex boron subphthalocyanine bromide/bismuth oxychloride

The development of stable and efficient heterojunction photocatalysts for wastewater environmental purification exhibits a significant challenge. Herien, a promising binary heterojunction complex comprising boron subphthalocyanine bromide/bismuth oxychloride (SubPc-Br/BiOCl) was successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method, which involved the self-assembled of SubPc-Br on the surface of BiOCl via intermolecular π-π stacking interactions to compose an electron-transporting layer. The photocatalytic efficiency of SubPc-Br/BiOCl for the degradation of tetracycline and the minocycline exhibited a substantial improvement of 29.14% and 53.72%, respectively, compared to the original BiOCl. Experimental characterization and theoretical calculations elucidated that the enhanced photocatalytic performance of the SubPc-Br/BiOCl composite photocatalysts stemmed from the S-scheme electron transport mechanism at the interface between BiOCl and SubPc-Br supramolecules, which broadened the visible light absorption range, increased the carrier molecular efficiency, and accelerated the carriers. Furthermore, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations provided insights into the action trajectories of the two semiconductors, revealing that the presence of SubPc-Br enhances the water and organic pollutant adsorption capabilities of the BiOCl surface within the supramolecular array system. In conclusion, the synthesis and analysis of the binary heterojunction complex SubPc-Br/BiOCl yield valuable insights into the efficient photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics, holding great promise for diverse environmental applications.

High Sensitivity and Ultra-Broad-Range NH3 Sensor Arrays by Precise Control of Step Defects on The Surface of Cl2-Ndi Single Crystals.

Vapor sensors with both high sensitivity and broad detection range are technically challenging yet highly desirable for widespread chemical sensing applications in diverse environments. Generally, an increased surface-to-volume ratio can effectively enhance the sensitivity to low concentrations, but often with the trade-off of a constrained sensing range. Here, an approach is demonstrated for NH3 sensor arrays with an unprecedentedly broad sensing range by introducing controllable steps on the surface of an n-type single crystal. Step edges, serving as adsorption sites with electron-deficient properties, are well-defined, discrete, and electronically active. NH3 molecules selectively adsorb at the step edges and nearly eliminate known trap-like character, which is demonstrated by surface potential imaging. Consequently, the strategy can significantly boost the sensitivity of two-terminal NH3 resistance sensors on thin crystals with a few steps while simultaneously enhancing the tolerance on thick crystals with dense steps. Incorporation of these crystals into parallel sensor arrays results in ppb-to-% level detection range and a convenient linear relation between sheet conductance and semi-log NH3 concentration, allowing for the precise localization of vapor leakage. In general, the results suggest new opportunities for defect engineering of organic semiconductor crystal surfaces for purposeful vapor or chemical sensing.

Photocatalytic TiO2-Based Nanostructures as a Promising Material for Diverse Environmental Applications: A Review

Contemporary technological and industrial advancements have led to increased reliance on chemicals for product innovation, leading to heightened contamination of water sources by traditional pollutants (organic dyes, heavy metals) and disease-causing microorganisms. Wastewater treatment processes now reveal “emerging pollutants”, including pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, and agricultural chemicals. While some are benign, certain emerging pollutants can harm diverse organisms. Researchers seek cost-effective water purification methods that completely degrade pollutants without generating harmful by-products. Semiconductor-based photocatalytic degradation, particularly using titanium dioxide (TiO2), is popular for addressing water pollution. This study focuses on recent applications of TiO2 nanostructures in photocatalysis for eliminating various water pollutants. Structural modifications, like doping and nanocomposite formation, enhance photocatalyst performance. The study emphasizes photocatalytic elimination mechanisms and comprehensively discusses factors impacting both the mechanism and performance of nano-TiO2-based photocatalysts. Characteristics of TiO2, such as crystal structure and energy band-gap, along with its photocatalytic activity mechanism, are presented. The review covers the advantages and limitations of different TiO2 nanostructure production approaches and addresses potential toxicity to human health and the environment. In summary, this review provides a holistic perspective on applying nano-TiO2 materials to mitigate water pollution.

Accumulation and Release of Cadmium Ions in the Lichen Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. and Wood-Derived Biochar: Implication for the Use of Biochar for Environmental Biomonitoring.

Biochar (BC) boasts diverse environmental applications. However, its potential for environmental biomonitoring has, surprisingly, remained largely unexplored. This study presents a preliminary analysis of BC's potential as a biomonitor for the environmental availability of ionic Cd, utilizing the lichen Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. as a reference organism. For this purpose, the lichen E. prunastri and two types of wood-derived biochar, biochar 1 (BC1) and biochar 2 (BC2), obtained from two anonymous producers, were investigated for their ability to accumulate, or sequester and subsequently release, Cd when exposed to Cd-depleted conditions. Samples of lichen and biochar (fractions between 2 and 4 mm) were soaked for 1 h in a solution containing deionized water (control), 10 µM, and 100 µM Cd2+ (accumulation phase). Then, 50% of the treated samples were soaked for 24 h in deionized water (depuration phase). The lichen showed a very good ability to adsorb ionic Cd, higher than the two biochar samples (more than 46.5%), and a weak ability to release the metal (ca. 6%). As compared to the lichen, BC2 showed a lower capacity for Cd accumulation (-48%) and release (ca. 3%). BC1, on the other hand, showed a slightly higher Cd accumulation capacity than BC2 (+3.6%), but a release capacity similar to that of the lichen (ca. 5%). The surface area and the cation exchange capacity of the organism and the tested materials seem to play a key role in their ability to accumulate and sequester Cd, respectively. This study suggests the potential use of BC as a (bio)monitor for the presence of PTEs in atmospheric depositions and, perhaps, water bodies.

Investigating Fe-doped Ba0.67Ni0.33Mn1-xFexO3 (x = 0, 0.2) ceramics: insights into electrical and dielectric behaviors.

This study investigates the characteristics of the Ba0.67Ni0.33Mn1-xFexO3 perovskite compound, focusing on its structural and electrical aspects under varying Fe doping levels at the Mn-site (x = 0, 0.2). X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the material's consistent structure, with Fe3+ ions substituting Mn3+ ions while maintaining their identical ionic radius. Nano-crystallinity studies reveal single-phase crystallization in the orthorhombic structure with space group Imma. Samples are prepared through conventional solid-state sintering. The Williamson-Hall method calculates crystallite sizes, averaging 37 nm for x = 0 and 33 nm for x = 0.2. Electrical properties are examined using complex impedance spectroscopy at different temperatures and frequencies. Techniques such as energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) assess chemical composition. Activation energy values increase from 0.138 eV for x = 0 to 0.171 eV for x = 0.2, leading to reduced dc conductivity across the investigated temperature range. Dielectric permittivity enhances proportionally with increasing Fe doping. Variations in impedance profiles reveal a relaxation phenomenon. A circuit model, Rg + (Rgb//CPEgb), elucidates impedance data. This study illuminates the interplay between Fe doping, activation energy, and electrical conductivity in Ba0.67Ni0.33Mn1-xFexO3 perovskite, offering insights applicable to electronic and energy-related devices. Perovskite-based nanomaterials have diverse environmental applications, including solar cells, light-emitting devices, transistors, sensors, and energy storage.

Utilizing metal oxide/fabric composites for photocatalytic degradation of wastewater

The growing concern over water pollution has increased the search for innovative and sustainable approaches to wastewater treatment. This manuscript offers a concise exploration of the utilization of composite materials comprising metal oxides and fabrics for the purpose of photocatalytic degradation. Metal oxides, including titanium dioxide (TiO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), and etc possess inherent photocatalytic properties that, when combined with fabric matrices, present a synergistic approach for pollutant removal. The incorporation of metal oxides and fabrics enhances the photocatalytic performance through the improvement of the catalyst properties. This review covers the photocatalytic mechanisms and properties of metal oxide fabric composites as well as the applications of these composites in environmental remediation and wastewater treatment. As a promising avenue for sustainable pollutant mitigation, further research in this field holds the key to unlocking the full potential of metal oxide fabric composites in diverse environmental applications.

Titania nanoengineering towards efficient plasmonic photocatalysis: Mono- and bi-metal-modified mesoporous microballs built of faceted anatase

Preparation of porous micro-sized materials with solar response is urgent for fast commercialization of green technologies based on semiconductor photocatalysis. Here, mesoporous titania microballs composed of nanocrystalline anatase with exposed facets were prepared by a sub-zero sol-gel method followed by hydrothermal/alcohothermal crystallization. The mechanism of microballs formation and the influence of preparation conditions on the properties, and thus resultant photocatalytic activity, were investigated in detail. The photocatalytic performance was examined in four reaction systems under UV/vis irradiation, i.e., oxidative decomposition of methyl orange (MO) dye, hydrogen evolution, degradation of tetracycline (TC) antibiotic, and carbon dioxide reduction. Moreover, hydrogen generation was also examined under visible-light (vis) irradiation. Amorphous and faceted (octahedral- and decahedral-based) microballs were additionally modified with nanoparticles (NPs) of noble metals (Pt, Au, Ag, Pt/Au, Pt/Ag) for both UV-activity enhancement and vis response (i.e., plasmonic photocatalysis). It has been found that nano-architecture of microballs might be controlled by the ratio of alcohol to water used during hydrothermal/alcohothermal treatment. Accordingly, highly active microballs composed of pure octahedral- or decahedral-shaped anatase crystals, i.e., with {101} facets only (bipyramids) or eight {101} and two {001} facets, respectively, could be synthesized by a facile and environmental-friendly method. The versatility and high activity of faceted microballs have been confirmed in both oxidation and reduction reactions under UV and/or vis irradiation (comparable performance to that by famous P25). Decahedral-based samples exhibit usually higher photocatalytic activity than octahedral ones, despite worse photoelectronic properties (charge carriers’ separation, electron transport capacity and photocurrent density), due to higher hydrophilicity. However, single type {101} facet photocatalyst (octahedral shape) is preferable for efficient CO2 adsorption and reduction into CO and CH4. Among noble metals, though platinum shows much higher positive effect on UV activity, gold is responsible for the highest activity under vis, which corresponds to the strongest plasmonic filed enhancement, as proven by finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. Concluding, micro-sized balls composed of faceted anatase are undoubtedly prospective photocatalyst for diverse environmental applications.

Genomic dissection of Niallia sp. for potential application in lignocellulose hydrolysis and bioremediation.

Genus Niallia has recently been separated taxonomic group from the Bacillus based on conserved signature indels in the genome. Unlike bioremediation, its role in plant biomass hydrolysis has not garnered considerable attention. The present study investigates the genomic potential of a novel Niallia sp. CRN 25 for applications in lignocellulose hydrolysis, significant enzyme production, and bioremediation. The CRN 25 strain exhibits xylosidase, cellobiosidase, α-arabinosidase, and α-D-galactosidase activity as 0.03U/ml whereas β-D-glucosidase and glucuronidase as 0.06 U/ml and 0.01U/ml, respectively. Further genome sequencing reveals nine copies of GH43 gene coding for hemicellulose-specific xylanase enzyme attached to the CBM 6 domain for increased processivity. The presence of β-glucosidase and β-galactosidase indicates the possible application of CRN 25 in facilitating the valorization of plant biomass into value-added products. Apart from this, genes of FMN-dependent NADH-azoreductase, cytochrome P450, and nitrate reductase, playing a crucial role in bioremediation processes, were annotated. Biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), responsible for synthesizing specialized metabolites of terpenes and lasso peptides, were also found in the genome. Conclusively genomic sketch of Niallia sp. CRN 25 reveals versatile metabolic potential for diverse environmental applications.

Construction of interfacial synergistic effect AlN/g-C3N4 2D/2D Z-type heterojunction for high-performance and stable visible-light photocatalytic removal of Rhodamine B and tetracycline

This study featured the synthesis and characterization of a highly effective AlN/g-C3N4 composite photocatalyst using a combination of physical grinding and calcination methods. The composite material exhibited a unique two-dimensional/two-dimensional (2D/2D) structure, with flocculent g-C3N4 uniformly coated on the surface of AlN. A series of characterization techniques including FE-SEM, TEM, XRD, FT-IR and XPS committed the successful formation of the AlN/g-C3N4 heterostructure. The AlN/g-C3N4 composite demonstrates the improved catalytic efficiency compared to pure AlN, which can be evidenced by its exceptional photocatalytic degradation performance under visible-light irradiation. The AlN/g-C3N4 composite materials exhibited significant degradation of (RhB) and tetracycline (TC). Especially, the 20 % AlN/g-C3N4 component showed particularly remarkable adsorption and catalytic activity, with 98.4 % degradation of RhB solution in 25 min and 83.0 % degradation of TC solution in 60 min, with efficiencies about 3.9 and 6.8 times higher than that of pure g-C₃N4, attributed to its larger specific surface area and a smaller pore structure compared to pure g-C3N4. Moreover, the AlN/g-C3N4 heterojunction exhibited outstanding stability and reusability throughout four consecutive experimental cycles, highlighting its long-lasting and reliable performance. FT-IR analysis confirmed the structural stability of the composite material, and the free radical experiments revealed the dominant role of the holes (h+) free radical in the photocatalytic reaction. Additionally, UV–vis diffuse reflectance and Mott-Schottky tests supported the Z-type charge carrier transport route as the photocatalytic mechanism. Overall, the AlN/g-C3N4 heterostructure have shown great potential as a highly efficient photocatalyst for pollutant degradation, due to its unique structure, high specific surface area, and effective charge carrier separation, making it a promising material for diverse environmental applications.

Scalable non-thermal plasma trielectrode reactor: A theoretical and experimental study on carbon monoxide removal in a nitrogen atmosphere

Non-thermal plasma technology has a great interest for very diverse environmental applications. In this work a trielectrode non-thermal plasma reactor was studied for carbon monoxide (CO) removal, in a nitrogen (N2) atmosphere, both experimentally and theoretically. The reactor combines a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) with a remote third electrode, DC-biased, to extend the DBD generated plasma region with long streamers permeating its cross section. Also, a theoretical model to predict reactor efficiency, considering possible chemical reactions involved in CO degradation was applied. A good correspondence between experimental and theoretical efficiency values was found. It was concluded that the most relevant reaction was the isocyanate (NCO) radical production. The byproducts of NCO degradation, nitrogen monoxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), were experimentally detected.

A novel application of thallium isotopes in tracing metal(loid)s migration and related sources in contaminated paddy soils

Thallium (Tl) is a highly toxic heavy metal, which is harmful to plants and animals even in trace amounts. Migration behaviors of Tl in paddy soils system remain largely unknown. Herein, Tl isotopic compositions have been employed for the first time to explore Tl transfer and pathway in paddy soil system. The results showed considerably large Tl isotopic variations (ε205Tl = −0.99 ± 0.45 ~ 24.57 ± 0.27), which may result from interconversion between Tl(I) and Tl(III) under alternative redox conditions in the paddy system. Overall higher ε205Tl values of paddy soils in the deeper layers were probably attributed to abundant presence of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides and occasionally extreme redox conditions during alternative dry-wet process which oxidized Tl(I) to Tl(III). A ternary mixing model using Tl isotopic compositions further disclosed that industrial waste contributed predominantly to Tl contamination in the studied soil, with an average contribution rate of 73.23%. All these findings indicate that Tl isotopes can be used as an efficient tracer for fingerprinting Tl pathway in complicated scenarios even under varied redox conditions, providing significant prospect in diverse environmental applications.

Ultrasensitive Detection of Aqueous Uranyl Based on Uranyl‐Triggered Protein Photocleavage

AbstractThe detection of environmental uranyl is attracting increasing attention. However, the available detection strategies mainly depend on the selective recognition of uranyl, which is subject to severe interference by coexisting metal ions. Herein, based on the unique uranyl‐triggered photocleavage property, the protein BSA is labelled with fluorescent molecules that exhibit an aggregation‐induced emission effect for uranyl detection. Uranyl‐triggered photocleavage causes the separation of the fluorescent‐molecule‐labelled protein fragments, leading to attenuation of the emission fluorescence, which is used as a signal for uranyl detection. This detection strategy shows high selectivity for uranyl and an ultralow detection limit of 24 pM with a broad detection range covering five orders of magnitude. The detection method also shows high reliability and stability, making it a promising technique for practical applications in diverse environments.

Ultrasensitive Detection of Aqueous Uranyl Based on Uranyl-Triggered Protein Photocleavage.

The detection of environmental uranyl is attracting increasing attention. However, the available detection strategies mainly depend on the selective recognition of uranyl, which is subject to severe interference by coexisting metal ions. Herein, based on the unique uranyl-triggered photocleavage property, the protein BSA is labelled with fluorescent molecules that exhibit an aggregation-induced emission effect for uranyl detection. Uranyl-triggered photocleavage causes the separation of the fluorescent-molecule-labelled protein fragments, leading to attenuation of the emission fluorescence, which is used as a signal for uranyl detection. This detection strategy shows high selectivity for uranyl and an ultralow detection limit of 24 pM with a broad detection range covering five orders of magnitude. The detection method also shows high reliability and stability, making it a promising technique for practical applications in diverse environments.