Black Powder Research Articles

A Study on Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Fortified Processed Products: Formulation and Quality Evaluation

Background: The aims of study to investigate physico-chemical properties do a proximate analysis of black cumin seeds (Nigella sativa L.) of AN-1 variety and development of value-added products by incorporating black cumin paste and powder in various proportions. Methods: The sensory evaluation of incorporating black cumin to have value-added products was performed using hedonic scale method. Physico-chemical properties of black cumin seeds were determined in the initial stage of study. Then, the proximate analysis was performed. In the second phase, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), pH, acidity, and antioxidant activity of the developed products were determined. The antioxidant activity of prepared products was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The antioxidant activity of coriander chutney was increased from 55.75 to 57.07 by increasing the fortification of black cumin paste, and in bottle gourd, Ready To Serve (RTS) was increased from 40.73 to 42.08 as by increasing the fortification of black cumin powder. Results: It was observed that level 1% incorporation of black cumin paste and RTS was found best by judges after sensory evaluation of chutney when compared to level 2 and 3% black cumin fortified paste. However, in biscuits, black cumin powder supplemented level up to 2% was found acceptable on the basis of spread factor and hardness as compared to 3 and 4% fortification powder. It was concluded that 1% black cumin paste supplemented in coriander chutney, 1% black cumin powder supplemented in bottle gourd RTS and 2% black cumin powder supplemented in biscuits, were the best selected value- added products. Conclusion: This study revealed that black cumin seeds are a potentially rich source of phytochemicals, and regular consumption of black cumin incorporated products with added value may reduce the risk of numerous diseases.

A study on the structural behaviour of Self Sensing Concrete using Nanomaterial as Fillers

Abstract Concrete technology has recently advanced to the point that different sensors can be used to measure a building’s mechanical attributes, including stress, amount of crack formation, deflection, and in various applications across Civil engineering disciplines. This can be achieved by various techniques or methods to measure the stress and strain of concrete in real-time. One of the methods is self-sensing concrete. To measure the self-sensing characteristics, concrete should be prepared with materials that possess sensing properties. Fibers (Carbon fibers, Steel fibers etc.,) and nanoparticles (nano nickel powder, carbon black powder, graphene powder etc.) are the main sources in the preparation of sensing concrete. This paper reviews the study on various self-sensing materials and methods that can be adopted and the study on the piezoresistive characteristics of concrete. The carbon and steel fiber-based self-sensing concrete were examined for compressive, tensile, and flexural strength as well as the electrical resistivity of the concrete was discussed in this paper.

Geometry Dependent Microwave Absorption Properties in Carbonaceous Materials over X-Band Frequencies (8.2-12.4 GHz) for Stealth Applications

: Carbonaceous materials of two different types, viz. spherical nano carbon black (NCB) powder (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area ~1400 m2/g) and multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) (BET surface area ~75 m2/g), have been impregnated in room temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicon rubber matrix to study the effect of geometries of filler particles on microwave absorption characteristics, over X-band frequencies (8.2 -12.4 GHz). The rubber-based composites are prepared by dispersion of NCB and MWCNT fillers in the liquid rubber with loading fractions ranging from 0.3-0.9 wt% and 1.1-1.7 wt%, respectively. The dielectric loss tangent (tanδe) profiles were evaluated for the filler-loaded rubber composites at different concentrations. The calculated Reflection loss (RL) profiles suggest that NCB-based rubber provides maximum RL value, (RL)max ~ -20 dB (99.00 % absorption), at a lower filler concentration of 0.5 wt%, as compared to MWCNT. However, the MWCNT-based rubber composite shows enhanced (RL)min values of ~ -29 dB (~99.99% absorption) due to multiple scattering phenomena. The identified NCB and MWCNT-based rubber-based MW absorbers have potential stealth applications for military aerial vehicles.

Innovative Wearable Electronics: Next-Generation Nitrogen-Doped Lutetium-Carbon Microspheres Composites for Robust Energy Harvesting.

In the quest to advance wearable electronics, this study presents a novel method using nitrogen-doped lutetium-carbon microspheres (N, Lu-CMS) for high-performance piezoelectric energy harvesting. The synthesis of N, Lu-CMS begins with the polymerization of sucrose, followed by the preparation of N, Lu-CMS metal complexes through the incorporation of lutetium (III) nitrate hydrate and thiourea, yielding a black powder product. The wearable electronic device is designed with a silicon rubber (SR) matrix, reinforced with 0D fillers such as N, Lu-CMS, or molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂). Mechanical testing revealed a significant improvement in compressive modulus, reaching 3.7MPa (N, Lu-CMS) at a concentration of 3 parts per hundred rubber (phr). Electromechanical assessments demonstrated efficient energy conversion, while biomechanical analysis, including thumb pressing tests, showed a notable increase in output voltage, peaking at ≈285mV (N, Lu-CMS) at 3 phr. This research provides a foundation for future engineering applications, particularly in electronic packaging for wearable electronics and smart devices, underscoring the significant impact of N, Lu-CMS in this emerging field. The surface power density achieved is 0.026 nWcm- 2 (N, Lu-CMS) and 0.0056 nWcm- 2 (Hybrid). Lastly, the conversion efficiency is 6.26% for N, Lu-CMS, and 1.05% for the hybrid system.

Luminescent nanomaterials for developing high-contrast latent fingerprints.

Fingerprint patterns (or epidermal ridges) are by far one of the most reliable techniques for individual identification. Fingerprint patterns get deposited on all kinds of solid surfaces due to human transudation or exudation process. Bodily fluids through sweat glands contain moisture, natural oils and proteins. Since latent fingerprint patterns are not readily recognizable they are collected from a crime scene and are further processed physically or chemically. Fingerprints obtained using conventional black and white powders face severe drawbacks including low sensitivity, high background interference from the substrates, involvement of toxic materials, and poor stability. To overcome the above-listed issues, especially for coloured and transparent substrates, luminescent materials have emerged as potential agents for rapid visualization of high-contrast latent fingerprints. This review covers the recent advancements in luminescent nanomaterials of both kinds (up and down conversion) and persistent nanophosphors for developing latent fingerprints. Special emphasis has been given to an unusual class of luminescent materials known as persistent nanophosphors, which do not require a constant excitation, thereby completely eradicating background noise. The review also covers different approaches to gathering fingerprints such as powder dusting, cyanoacrylate fuming, ninhydrin fuming and vacuum metal deposition.

Evaluation of the insecticidal efficacy of four plants to protect stored Bambara groundnuts [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc. (Fabaceae)

Bambara groundnuts [Vigna subterranean] is one of the main legumes consumed in Northern Cameroon. However, stored nuts by farmers are quickly destroyed by pests leading to low yields. To overcome this constraint, the efficient control of stored grains from insect pests is dependent on synthetic insecticides. To reduce post-harvest losses of stored voandzou seeds, four botanicals insecticides have been developed and evaluated on the main pest. Plant powders prepared from Piper nigrum Linn. (Pipericaceae), Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M.Perry (Myrtaceae), Xylopia aethiopica Dunal (Annonaceae) and Phaseolus vulgaris L.( Fabaceae), at different doses were tested on Callosobruchus maculatus Fabricius under laboratory conditions. The rest of the study involved combining black bean powder with the three condiment species in different proportions. The analysis shows a highly significant difference (p < 0.0001) between the mortality induced by formulations on day two of exposure with the lowest dose (0.5 g). These mortalities are 100%, 94.44 ± 3.79%, 72.5 ± 96 and 8.33 ± 4.77, respectively for S. aromaticum, P. nigrum, X. aethiopica and P. vulgaris powders. In relation to the formulation, the results show S. aromaticum powder induced 100% mortality compared with 94.44%, 72.59% and 8.33% respectively for P. nigrum, X. aethiopica and P. vulgaris plant powder at a dose of 5%. The results show that the natural substances used had a good insecticidal action against bruchid. The persistent compounds present in the studied spice plant powders are not toxic for human consumption at the concentrations used, but rather a beneficial effect. Key words: botanical insecticide, aromatic plants, powder, seeds, storage, insect pest.

Black powder and mineral deposits in the LPG production and processing line: Analytical study and formation mechanisms

The accumulation of mineral deposits such as black powder causes severe impacts throughout the gas production and transport process. The phenomenon takes place from gas wells to LNG/LPG treatment plants and terminals. The complexity lies in understanding the mechanisms by which these materials are formed in random quantities, as well as their varied nature. The aim of this study is to monitor black powder and other mineral deposits formation in a chain of gas production and processing situated in the south of Algeria and unravel their root causes. To that extent, an analytical study was carried out on four samples of both mineral deposits and black powder taken from an LPG processing and production unit. The adopted analytical approach included an exploration of the textural and structural properties. It also involves a composition characterizations related to the content of metallic elements, moisture, organic and mineral matter. The particle distribution is also determined. The analytical study was conducted using gravimetric determination, XRD, XRF, SEM/EDX and Raman spectroscopy. Particle distribution was given by Laser granulometry technique. The results of the DRX/FRX and EDX characterization primarily revealed that the samples contain a variety of mineral components such as iron oxides; magnetite Fe3O4 and hematite Fe2O3, iron oxy-hydroxide FeO(OH), iron sulphide FeS2, calcite CaCO3, SiO2 and halite NaCl. The presence distribution of these components depends on the location of the sample in gas line. Granulometry study shows that black powder contamination can be spread over a wide spectrum of particle sizes ranging from 1.51 µm to 678.50 µm. This study has allowed to elucidate the nature and distribution of particles deposited at different positions in the LPG production chain and to propose probable mechanisms for their formation.

Dietary effect of turmeric and ginger powder supplementation on growth performance of Common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

A study was conducted with the aim to find out the effect of ginger and turmeric supplementation on the growth performance of Common carp fingerlings. A total of 270 fingerlings were divided into 6 groups including control (C). The group C was fed with basal feed and the treatment groups T5, T5B5, G2, G5, G8 were fed with turmeric powder @0.5%, turmeric @0.5% + black pepper powder @0.5 %, ginger powder @2%, 5% and 8%, respectively. The growth parameters, i.e Gain in weight, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), Specific Growth Rate (SGR), Relative Growth Ratio (RGR), Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) and Feed Efficiency Ratio (FER) were recorded for 60 days. Measurements were taken for gain in total length (TL) and body depth (BD) after 60 days of trial. Turmeric powder supplementation @0.5% showed significantly better growth performance in Common carp fingerlings. The fingerlings of T5 group showed highest gain in weight (48.7), SGR (1.35), RGR (126), FER (48.17), PER (1.24) and improved FCR (2.23). This group also gained significantly higher TL (3.74) and BD (1.42). There was no significant difference observed in survival per cent, moisture and acid insoluble ash content of fish muscle. T5 showed the highest crude protein concentration (78.29) and significantly highest total fat concentration (11.59). Fish muscles of all the treatments had significantly higher total mineral content as compared to that of the control group.

The development of screen-printed electrodes modified with gold and copper nanostructures for analysis of gunshot residue and low explosives

Due to their portability, sensitivity, and ease of use, electrochemical sensors have recently become a popular method for rapid, on-site analysis. This study presents a proof of principle for the application of modified screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) for the detection of signature metals (Pb, Sb, and Zn) commonly found in gunshot residue (GSR), as well as for the detection of nitrate/nitrite in organic GSR and low explosives. To achieve these two aims, we have examined various electrode surface modifications. For metal detection, SPCEs were modified by electrodeposition of gold to improve sensitivity. GSR samples taken from two types of cartridge cases and shooting-related surfaces were analyzed using the Au-modified SPCEs. For nitrate/nitrite analysis, further electrode surface modifications were carried out by depositing Cu(II) onto the Au-SPCEs to enhance signal through catalytic activity of the copper surfaces. Both unburned and burned forms of black powder samples, as well as burned smokeless powder, were then analyzed using the Cu/Au-SPCEs. In conclusion, due to their low cost and portability, these sensors should prove useful for rapid forensic examination.

Efficacy of a pharmaceutically alginate-coated phytoremedy (black garlic and turmeric) for the control of natural coccidia infestation in turkeys

In searching for herbal alternatives for treating coccidiosis in turkeys, this trial aimed to evaluate whether minced black garlic (Allium sativa) or turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) or their combination, included in dried alginate beads, controlling clinical coccidiosis in turkey male poults. A total of 150 twelve-day-old male turkeys were randomly distributed into 15 pens of 10 turkeys per pen. Groups were: CTR = control untreated turkeys; GAR = turkeys fed 4 % of their diet with minced garlic included in dried alginate beads; CUR = treated fed 4 % powder curcuma, also prepared as dried alginate beads; GA = containing only alginate), and GC= turkeys fed 8 % of their diet with the mixture of minced black garlic plus powder curcuma (4 %), entrapped in dried alginate beads. Treatments were incorporated as feed-dressing, considering their mean feed intake. Results reveal that turkeys in group GC showed a significant decrease in oocysts per gram of feces during the first six weeks of age compared to values found in the CTR group and the other treatments. These results identify that in turkey poults, there is a statistically significant anticoccidial activity of the combination of minced garlic plus powder curcuma, included in alginate beads and administered as 4 % of their feed intake. Additionally, better productive variables were recorded for this combination compared to the other three groups (P < 0.05). The use of vehicles for the digestive tract of turkeys may improve the effectiveness of plant extracts for the control of coccidiosis.

Identifying food safety risks with a novel digitally-driven food safety early warning tool – A retrospective study on the pesticide ethylene oxide

Foodborne diseases present a major global health challenge, with 600 million annual cases and 420,000 deaths worldwide in 2023 reported by the World Health Organization, underscoring the critical need for early risk detection and swift measures. Novel solutions for early risk detection in food are emerging due to artificial intelligence-based data models. By applying diverse algorithms and ontologies in data processing, the continually expanding amount of available data can be harnessed in a precise manner. To assess the efficacy of such technologies in early risk detection, we evaluated whether the risk to exceed a legal limit for ethylene oxide – specifically in sesame seeds – could have been identified sooner with the assistance of a commercially available Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based platform. The non-compliance of sesame seeds led to various product recalls in the year 2020. The result of this retrospective case study shows that the first indirect indications of the issue started to emerge from the year 2018 with initial Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) notification of ethylene oxide limit value exceedances in black pepper powder. Based on these promising findings, the subsequent challenge is to develop a methodology for systematically categorizing and evaluating similar risks in the light of the exponentially growing volume of accessible data.

Catalytic methane decomposition process on carbon-based catalyst under contactless induction heating

Hydrogen obtained from decomposition of natural gas with direct sequestration of carbon in solid form could be an attractive and cost-effective alternative for large-scale hydrogen production. We report here the use of a carbon-based catalyst to achieve the catalytic decomposition of methane (CMD) at medium temperature, 800 °C, under induction heating (IH). Analyses of the catalytic results and characterizations of the spent catalyst have shown that the carbon deposited during the reaction acts as the active phase for the reaction and can, therefore, be recycled infinitely. This autocatalytic effect can only be observed when the carbon catalyst operates under IH because the same catalyst operating under Joule heating (JH) deactivates rapidly in the same way as that already reported in the literature and no autocatalytic effect has been observed. The carbon formed is in the form of a graphene layer with a high degree of graphitization and is completely different from the carbon black powder obtained in other processes. These promising results could lay the groundwork for the development of an industrially and economically viable way to convert natural gas into turquoise hydrogen, using renewable energy and low-cost catalysts, with better resistance to poisoning by impurities present in the processing load. The combination of a carbon-based catalyst and non-contact IH could also lead to combined catalytic processes for many challenging reactions.

Use of carbon black powder for surface treatment of stainless steel substrates via a low-cost CO2 laser

Nowadays, AISI 304 stainless steel plays a crucial role in industry. However, stainless steel exhibits limited wear resistance as it is used in parts with relative motion. Laser treatment emerges as a promising approach to improve its superficial properties. Using a laser as a heat source presents unique properties for heating surfaces, as the first atomic layers of the material absorb the radiation from the laser beam. In this study, we used a low-cost 100 W CO2 laser with carbon black powder to treat the surface of AISI 304 steels. In addition, the reflectance of irradiation on steel is 90%. We used carbon black powder as a photo-absorbing material for radiation to overcome this obstacle. The characterization included field emission gun–scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x ray, microhardness, and pin-on reciprocation tribometer. The results showed a significant increase in surface hardness after laser treatment compared to the untreated substrate at a magnitude of 3.8 times. Elemental mapping analysis revealed carbon's presence on the substrate's surface. In addition to increasing surface hardness, we observed a decrease in the friction coefficient of the laser-treated samples compared to the reference substrate. Finally, it could be concluded that carbon black powder had a triple function; it acted as a photo-absorbent material, a carbon source to increase surface hardness, and a solid lubricant. These results show the predictions of using a low-cost CO2 laser with carbon black powder as an efficient, versatile, and fast alternative.

FLAVONOID AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY ANALYSIS OF ANTHOCYANIN BLACK RICE BRAN EXTRACT (ABRIBE) CV CEMPO IRENG ORIGIN FROM INDONESIA

Black rice is an indigenous food in Indonesia that is rich in anthocyanins, a group of plant pigments that are also found in berries. Despite the similarity in anthocyanin content, the high cost and limited availability of berries have restricted their use for extraction. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the total anthocyanin, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of black rice bran. To achieve this, the extraction was conducted with maceration using ethanol-citric acid and freeze-drying techniques. The process involved several stages, such as making black rice bran powder, maceration, homogenization, filtration, evaporation, and freeze-drying. The UV-Vis spectrophotometer was used to determine the total anthocyanin and flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant activity. The result showed a total anthocyanin content and the total flavonoid content of 2.48 ± 0.17 mg/gram and 3.76 ± 0.000 mg QE/g freeze-dried extract, respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of black rice bran CV Cempo Ireng extract and ascorbic acid as a standard was measured in terms of half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in the form of percentage inhibition (%I), with values of 112.42 ± 2.368 and 7.18 ± 0.042 μg/mL, respectively.

Investigation of isotopic linkages between raw materials and black powder.

The stable isotope analysis of black powder (BP) is of great significance for its comparison and source inference. Previous studies have verified the feasibility of distinguishing different BP samples through stable isotopes. However, the impact of raw materials and synthesis processes on the stable isotopes of BP remains unclear. On the one hand, the raw materials of BP are widely sourced, and whether stable isotopes can distinguish different source materials remains to be studied. On the other hand, the synthesis of BP involves the physical mixing of raw materials, and whether this process leads to isotope fractionation also needs further investigation. To address these problems, stable isotope ratios of 27 charcoals, 15 potassium nitrates, 6 self-made and 10 commercial BP samples were analyzed. The results showed that the stable isotope ratios can be utilized to distinguish charcoals and potassium nitrates from different manufacturers and batches. No significant differences in the nitrogen and oxygen stable isotope ratios between the self-made BP and its raw materials were observed, indicating that the physical mixing process does not induce significant fractionation of stable isotopes. However, the carbon stable isotope ratios of charcoal increased (within 2SD) after being synthesized into BP. Due to the utilization of additives and variations in the synthesis process, the correlation between the stable isotope ratios of commercial BP and its raw materials was complex. The findings of this study provide a scientific reference for tracing the source of BP.

Combustion-explosion suppression and environmental protection of typical sulfur-containing hazardous chemicals.

Sulfur, as a crucial chemical raw, poses increased combustion-explosion risks when mixed with other hazardous substances due to its dual nature as both an oxidant and a reducing agent. Additionally, sulfur-induced combustion and explosions can result in environmental pollution. Combustion-explosion suppression technology plays a crucial role in industrial production by effectively preventing hazardous chemical explosion incidents. This research investigates the combustion-explosion suppression of black powder, a common hazardous chemical containing sulfur, by utilizing two solid-based blast suppressants, NH4H2PO4 and NaHCO3. On this basis, examining changes in the oxidation states of sulfur and explaining the mechanisms of combustion-explosion suppression through the examination of combustion-explosion products. Additionally, numerical calculations are employed to analyze the evolution patterns of gaseous and solid-phase products throughout the entire combustion-explosion process. Research indicates that NaHCO3 exhibits a more effective combustion-explosion suppression effect on black powder compared to NH4H2PO4, which attributed to the valence state transformation of sulfur and the reduction of carbon oxidation. Furthermore, with the enhancement of combustion-explosion suppression effect, K2S, which a pollutes the environment, is gradually transform converted into potassium fertilizer K2SO4, which benefits plants. These results offer new insights into the research of combustion-explosion suppression of sulfur-containing substances and environmental protection strategies.

Reactive formation of C3N4 as a by-product of AISI 1070 parts produced by laser powder bed fusion in N2 atmosphere

AbstractIn metal additive manufacturing (AM), inert gases are traditionally used to achieve a controlled atmosphere and mitigate the effects of residual reactive gases. However, the interaction between gases and laser processes, particularly in reactive laser powder bed fusion (RL-PBF) technology, offers the possibility of opening up new avenues for material synthesis. In this experimental work, the authors observed the presence of C3N4 in the residual powder during the manufacture of AISI 1070 steel parts by L-PBF, indicating a reactive process occurred during parts production. This investigation revealed the formation in the working chamber of a waste product containing C3N4 carbon nitride, due to the reaction between the carbon released from the steel and the nitrogen in the chamber. Remarkably, despite carbon depletion, the final product of AISI 1070 steel complies with the specifications of use. Hence, the L-PBF machine was modified to allow black powder sampling from various locations in the chamber. Authors attempted to enhance the production of the C3N4 material by increasing the SED up to 7143 J/mm2 to sublimate a pure graphite rod and concurrently manufacture parts in AISI 1070, in a nitrogen atmosphere. The results obtained at higher SED values showed that in both cases (graphite rod or AISI 1070 steel) a C3N4 compound in the black powder is formed in the investigated atmosphere by reaction of nitrogen atoms with the carbon atoms vaporized by the laser beam. Thus, the study highlights the novel achievement of synthesizing carbon nitride as a high-value by-product while producing functional AISI 1070 steel parts via L-PBF through reaction with nitrogen atmosphere.

Harnessing Nature's ingenuity to engineer butterfly-wing-inspired photoactive nanofiber patches for advanced postoperative tumor treatment

Postoperative tumor treatment necessitates a delicate balance between eliminating residual tumor cells and promoting surgical wound healing. Addressing this challenge, we harness the innovation and elegance of nature's ingenuity to develop a butterfly-wing-inspired photoactive nanofiber patch (WingPatch), aimed at advancing postoperative care. WingPatch is fabricated using a sophisticated combination of electrostatic spinning and spraying techniques, incorporating black rice powder (BRP) and konjac glucomannan (KGM) into a corn-derived polylactic acid (PLA) nanofiber matrix. This fabrication process yields a paclitaxel-infused porous nanofiber architecture that mirrors the delicate patterns of butterfly wings. Meanwhile, all-natural composites have been selected for their strategic roles in postoperative recovery. BRP offers the dual benefits of photothermal therapy and antibacterial properties, while KGM enhances both antibacterial effectiveness and tissue regeneration. Responsive to near-infrared light, WingPatch ensures robust tissue adhesion and initiates combined photothermal and chemotherapeutic actions to effectively destroy residual tumor cells. Crucially, it simultaneously prevents infections and promotes wound healing throughout the treatment process. Its effectiveness has been confirmed by animal studies, and WingPatch significantly improves treatment outcomes in both breast and liver tumor models. Thus, WingPatch exemplifies our dedication to leveraging natural world's intricate patterns and inventiveness to propel postoperative care forward.

Exploration of the prebiotic potential of black tea infusion powder on the human gut microbiota in vitro

Black tea is well known for its health-promoting properties, which are mostly attributed to its polyphenol content. Black tea polyphenols are mostly non absorbable and thus readily reach the colon, where they come in contact with the gut microbiota. Several gut microbial species are able to metabolize these polyphenols, which results in bioactive metabolites on the one hand and alterations in microbial community composition on the other. To date, most studies regarding the impact of black tea on the gut microbiota have used a limited set of endpoints. In this study, a more detailed view on the potential prebiotic effects of black tea was generated. The impact of black tea infusion powder on the composition and activity of the human gut microbiota was compared to that of inulin, by applying both products in the Mucosal Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (M-SHIME®). The results indicated that black tea infusion powder increased acetate and butyrate production, though less than inulin. The black tea infusion powder also increased microbial diversity in most colon regions and stimulated several butyrate- and propionate-producing species, next to the well-known probiotic Bifidobacterium, as identified through metagenomic sequencing. In addition, the metabolic fingerprint of the gut microbiota was beneficially altered, compared to the control, especially by the black tea product. Finally, both the black tea infusion powder and inulin increased the gut microbiota's barrier strengthening properties. Together these results indicate that black tea infusion powder has the potential to function as a prebiotic in humans.

The black powder behind battery power

Carbon black, a key ingredient in ancient inks, is used today to make the porous electrodes found in many rechargeable batteries. Understanding how to control its microstructure can pave the way to better-performing batteries.