Conventional Iron Research Articles

Tribological Behavior of Hybrid Aluminum-TiB2 Metal Matrix Composites for Brake Rotor Applications

This research investigates the feasibility of hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (MMC) incorporating TiB2 particles for brake rotor applications. The composites were produced by incorporating both in-situ, submicron-sized TiB2 particles and regular micron-sized TiB2 powders via stir and squeeze casting techniques into a A206 aluminum alloy matrix. Systematic adjustments in the fractions of in-situ and ex-situ TiB2 particles were conducted to evaluate their impact on wear behavior and mechanisms. Combination of both particle types allowed composites with up to 10 vol% of reinforcements. Composites with higher proportions of ex-situ particles demonstrated increased wear resistance compared to those solely composed of in-situ particles, control specimens without TiB2, and conventional cast iron counterparts. The lowest wear rate for the hybrid composites sliding against phenolic brake pads was 1.1 x 10-5 mm3/Nm, signifying a 3-fold reduction relative to cast iron sliding against the same pads. Wear analysis elucidated distinctive mechanisms within the hybrid composites, characterized by mild fragmented abrasive wear, adhesive wear, and plastic deformation, accompanied by the formation of an intermixed tribo-oxide layer.

Research on the Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Evolution of Sodium-Ion Batteries in Different States.

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to the abundant availability of sodium, lower costs, and comparable electrochemical performance characteristics. A thorough understanding of their performance features is essential for the widespread adoption and application of SIBs. Therefore, in this study, we investigate the output characteristics and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) features of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) under various states. The research results show that, unlike conventional lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, SIBs exhibit a strong linear relationship between state of charge (SOC) and open-circuit voltage (OCV) across various SOC and temperature conditions. Additionally, the discharge capacity of the battery remains relatively stable within a temperature range of 15 °C to 35 °C; when the temperatures are outside this range, the available capacity of the sodium-ion battery reduces significantly. Moreover, the EIS profiles in the high-frequency region are predominantly influenced by the ohmic internal resistance, which remains largely unaffected by SOC variations. In contrast, the low-frequency region demonstrates a significant correlation between SOC and impedance, with higher SOC values resulting in reduced impedance, indicated by smaller semicircle radii in the EIS curves. This finds highlights that EIS profiling can effectively monitor SOC and state of health (SOH) in SIBs, offering a clear correlation between impedance parameters and the battery's operational state. The research not only advances our understanding of the electrochemical properties of SIBs but also provides a valuable reference for the design and application of sodium-ion battery systems in various scenarios.

Compact Substrate Integrated Waveguide Cubical Dielectric Resonator Antenna for fifth-generation applications

A comprehensive analysis of a wideband Cubical Dielectric Resonator Antenna is presented, specifically designed for 5G-NR wireless communication applications, focusing on the N257, and N258 frequency bands. This antenna exhibits symmetrical radiation patterns, a wider bandwidth, improved efficiency, and substantial gain characteristics. The design employs a low-loss substrate-integrated waveguide structure to enhance gain while reducing cross-polarization effects. This is accomplished through an innovative approach of establishing boundary conditions using copper wire stitching for vias, superseding the conventional soldering iron method, which guarantees minimal radiation leakage, compact dimensions, and reduced losses. The perforated dielectric resonator antenna possesses higher mode excitations, and implementing metallic strips on two resonator surfaces facilitates the simultaneous excitation of fundamental and higher-order modes, thereby yielding a broadband response. The overall dimensions of the antenna are 15.29 × 8.42 × 3.8 mm3(1.3×0.7×0.3)λ03, which facilitates a measured impedance bandwidth of 8.2 GHz, spanning from 24.4 to 32.6 GHz (28.7%), accompanied by a high gain of 8.1 dBi and efficiency levels reaching up to 94%. The prototype is constructed utilizing the standard printed circuit board technique, and simulation outcomes are derived using the High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS).

Iron removal from red clay using oxalic acid leaching for enhanced ceramic industry applications

This work focused on removing iron with oxalic acid from red clay samples collected from Kapasia Upazila, Gazipur District, Bangladesh. To characterize the red clay, the study employed several techniques: particle size analysis, WDXRF (wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence), AAS (atomic absorption spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), TGA (thermogravimetric analysis), and FESEM (field emission scanning electron microscopy). Additionally, leaching experiments were conducted with varying concentrations of oxalic acid, temperatures and times. After leaching, the red clay composition changed significantly: SiO₂ increased from 53.6 % to 63.13 %, Fe₂O₃ decreased from 17.1 % to 3.64 %, Al₂O₃ remained relatively stable at 18 %–18.22 %, and other oxides showed minor variations. 78.71 % of the iron was removed at optimal leaching conditions (1.0 M oxalic acid, 100 °C, 150 min, and 250 rpm). Mineralogically, the red clay samples are composed of illite, kaolinite, quartz, feldspar, hematite and chlorite. Thermal analysis showed significant weight loss at temperatures between 300 and 600 °C. Ceramic trials were conducted at firing temperatures of 900 °C and 1100 °C to evaluate the mechanical properties of tiles. The results obtained showed significant improvements in red clay quality for ceramics. Being a low-cost and eco-friendly process, this becomes a very prominent alternative to conventional iron removal techniques and helps produce high-quality ceramic tiles, contributing towards economic growth in Bangladesh.

Sheng Xue Ning as a Novel Agent that Promotes SCF-Driven Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cell Proliferation to Promote Erythropoiesis.

Stimulating erythropoiesis is essential in the treatment of various types of anemia. Sheng Xue Ning (SXN) is commonly used in China as an iron supplement to treat iron deficiency anemia, renal anemia, and anemia in pregnancy. This research reports a novel effect of SXN in enhancing the proliferation of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) to promote erythropoiesis in the bone marrow, which is distinct from conventional iron supplements that primarily aid in the maturation of red blood cells. Employing a model of hematopoietic dysfunction induced by X-ray exposure, we evaluated the efficacy of SXN in restoring hematopoietic function. SXN significantly promoted the recovery of peripheral erythroid cells and enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of Lin-/c-KIT+/Sca-1+ HSPC in mice exposed to X-ray irradiation. Our results showed that SXN elevated the expression of stem cell factor (SCF) and activated the SCF/c-KIT/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, facilitating the proliferation and differentiation of HSPC. In vitro, SXN markedly enhanced the proliferation of bone marrow nucleated cell (BMNC) and the colony-forming capacity of BFU-E, CFU-E, and CFU-GM, while also elevating the expression of proteins involved in the SCF/c-KIT/PI3K/AKT pathway in BMNC. Additionally, SXN enhanced the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) and increased SCF secretion. In conclusion, SXN demonstrates the capacity to enhance erythropoiesis by upregulating SCF expression, thereby promoting HSPC proliferation and differentiation via the SCF/c-KIT/PI3K/AKT pathway. SXN may offer a new strategy for improving the activity of HSPC and promoting erythropoiesis in the treatment of hematopoiesis disorders.

Development and Application of Hydrogen-Based Direct Reduction Iron Process

The conventional iron and steel industry (ISI), driven by coal utilization as its predominant feedstock, constitutes a substantial source of greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen metallurgy presents the opportunity to mitigate carbon emissions in ISI from the origin. Among hydrogen metallurgical approaches, the hydrogen-based direct reduction iron (H-DRI) process stands out for its substantial carbon reduction capabilities and established technological maturity. The present paper provides a comprehensive review of the development and application surrounding the H-DRI process. Firstly, the main chemical reactions of H-DRI and the relevant important parameters are introduced. Subsequently, an overview is provided of several prominent H-DRI processes, including HYL, Midrex, Midrex-H2®, HYL-III, HYL-ZR, BL, and Finmet, elucidating their characteristics through comparative analysis. Moreover, some research results of H-DRI process optimization are summarized. Leveraging insights garnered from globally representative projects exemplifying the industrial deployment of H-DRI technology in recent years, the trajectory of and prospective trends for industrial development in the field of H-DRI processes are explored. Further, prevailing challenges and impediments encountered in the adoption of H-DRI processes are identified, culminating in strategic recommendations tailored towards fostering future advancements. In the long term, the H-DRI process is expected to become a key path to achieve ISI cleaner production.

Iron Production By Molten Sulfide Electrolysis

With urgency and incentives to cut CO2 emissions, alongside increasing demand for steel, there is a need for technologies that use solely electricity for iron ore reduction, eliminating the role of carbon as a reductant. Herein, we propose the electrolytic production of liquid cast iron using a novel sulfide route, molten sulfide electrolysis (MSE). The process operates using sulfide chemistry and an inert anode. Sulfides are well known from non-ferrous metallurgy1 and the exclusion of oxygen supports a virtual elimination of green-house gases(GHG) emissions from the reduction step. The electrolytic decomposition of iron sulfide into iron and elemental sulfur gas operates in a multi-component molten sulfide electrolyte. The underlying thermodynamics suggests the absence of trivalent iron species (Fe3+) in such conditions, supporting the reduction of only divalent iron (Fe2+) and reducing the energy need proportionally, as compared to other oxide-based routes. Iron sulfide deposits or tailings, as well as conventional iron oxide ores after sulfidation2 are some of the suitable feedstocks for MSE.Both thermal only, and galvanostatic electrochemical experiments were carried out on electrolyte droplets (~200mg) in a thermal imaging furnace, to confirm the electrolytic deposition of Fe and the evolution of sulfur in a 2-electrode set-up. Faradaic efficiency estimates based on mass-loss measurements – i.e. with respect to gaseous sulfur anodic evolution – are of the order of 90%. Key electrochemical attributes of MSE to be reported include impedance measurement at various fixed DC potentials, measurements at various current densities up to 2A/cm2, and the role of the total charge passed, to highlight the potential limitations observed in such an experimental set up. Characterization of the electrochemical deposits are also presented.

Thermodynamic evaluation of decarbonized power production based on solar energy integration

This study aims to create an environmentally friendly system by utilizing solar and biomass energies as renewable sources, employing high temperature and pressure ranges for analysis. A new energy system is introduced, using biomass to produce hydrogen and other valuable commodities. The study evaluates power and hydrogen production technologies from a thermodynamic perspective, including conventional biomass gasification, calcium and iron thermochemical looping cycles, and gasification with supercritical water, incorporating carbon capture techniques. It assesses and compares the performance of locally available biomass material, such as cotton stalk, during gasification. Results show that employing the supercritical water gasification cycle yields the highest hydrogen production (8330 kg/h) and carbon capture rate (92.91 %), with potential for significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Supercritical water gasification also demonstrates electricity, heating, and CO2 production rates of 51.48 MW, 23.3 MW, and 16.6 MW, respectively. Integrating supercritical water gasification with solar energy enhances syngas productivity and system efficiency. Additionally, the highest performance is demonstrated in the SCWG case, which exhibits the lowest irreversibility at 320.32 MW. In conclusion, the system with supercritical water gasification emerges as the most efficient biomass conversion method, with higher energy and exergy efficiencies of 67.59 % and 49.74 %, respectively, under specific operating conditions. The developed model facilitates integration of solar energy into biomass gasification, enabling prediction and comparison of performance in terms of energy and exergy efficiencies.

Enhanced tribological performance of MoS2 and hBN-based composite friction materials: Design of tribo-pair for automotive brake pad-disc systems

This research comprehensively analyzes the friction and wear behavior of composite friction materials when dry sliding against grey cast iron and laser-clad nickel-based (LC1) and iron-based (LC2) alloy discs. The composite friction materials (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, and P6) under investigation contain graphite, MoS2, and hBN-based solid lubricant synthesized through the powder metallurgy technique. Tribological tests were conducted using a pin-on-disc configuration to simulate the dynamic interaction between the composite materials and the laser-clad grey cast iron discs. The tests were performed at a 60 N load, 6283.19 m sliding distance, and 2.094 m/s sliding velocity under dry sliding conditions. The results provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of MoS2 and hBN-based solid lubricant composites in reducing friction and wear when in contact with iron and nickel alloy-based laser-clad grey cast iron surfaces. The study elucidates the mechanisms governing tribological behavior, including the formation of friction plateaus and the role of laser-clad counter-discs in reducing wear. The specific wear rate of the nickel-based laser-clad counter disc (LC1) and iron-based laser-clad (LC2) system improved by 63.76 % and 48.32 %, respectively, compared to the conventional grey cast iron disc system when using the hBN-based pin (P6). Additionally, the specific wear rate of the hBN-based pin was 38.49 % lower than the conventional graphite-based pin when sliding against the grey cast iron counter-disc. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was used to validate the wear rate of the best-performing tribological pair, namely the hBN-based pin (P6) and LC2 counter discs, through supervised learning.

Machine Learning-Aided Analysis of the Rolling and Recrystallization Textures of Pure Iron with Different Cold Reduction Ratios and Cold-Rolling Directions.

We performed a machine learning-aided analysis of the rolling and recrystallization textures in pure iron with different cold reduction ratios and cold-rolling directions. Five types of specimens with different cold reduction ratios and cold-rolling directions were prepared. The effect of two-way cold-rolling on the rolling texture was small at cold reduction ratios different from 60%. The cold reduction ratio in each stage hardly affected the texture evolution during cold-rolling and subsequent short-term annealing. In the case of long-term annealing, although abnormal grain growth occurred, the crystal orientation of the grains varied. Moreover, the direction of cold-rolling in each stage also hardly affected the texture evolution during cold-rolling and subsequent short-term annealing. During long-term annealing, sheets with the same cold-rolling direction in the as-received state and in the first stage showed the texture evolution of conventional one-way cold-rolled pure iron. Additionally, we conducted a machine learning-aided analysis of rolling and recrystallization textures. Using cold-rolling and annealing conditions as the input data and the degree of Goss orientation development as the output data, we constructed high-accuracy regression models using artificial neural networks and XGBoost. We also revealed that the annealing temperature is the dominant factor in the nucleation of Goss grains.

The effect of silicon on the critical resolved shear stress of solid solution strengthened ferritic ductile iron

Solid solution strengthened ferritic ductile iron (SSFDI) exhibits improved mechanical properties compared to conventional ductile cast iron (DCI) grades, however, its potential widespread application is hindered by unpredictable brittle fracture which might be attributed to microstructural silicon segregation and associated superstructure formation. The aim of the present study is therefore to deepen the understanding on the effect of local silicon segregation on the mechanical properties of SSFDI, which is crucial especially for the common applications of DCI in cyclically loaded structures. Micropillar compression tests were carried out on three different casts to investigate the solution strengthening effect of silicon in the ferritic matrix. An almost perfect linear relationship between critical resolved shear stress (CRSS) and global silicon content was found. It was also found that the variation of CRSS with silicon content corresponds well to the variation of the macroscopic yield limits (under tension and compression) with global silicon content of different SSFDI alloys. This indicates that the ferritic matrix dominates the yield limit of the DCI alloys investigated in this study, while the morphology of the graphite nodules plays a minor role under monotonic loading conditions.

Assessment of dietary supplementation of green iron oxide nanoparticles: impact on growth performance, ammonia emissions, carcass criteria, tissue iron content, and meat quality in broiler chickens under hot climate conditions.

The potential significance and importance of green iron nanoparticles (Nano-Fe) in poultry production lie in their capability to effectively tackle iron deficiency in poultry. Iron, an indispensable mineral for numerous physiological functions in birds, such as oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and immune response, underscores the critical need for adequate iron levels. Nevertheless, conventional iron supplementation methods frequently face hurdles like limited bioavailability rates in poultry. To enhance performance, and promote sustainable broiler productivity, Nano-Fe showed promise as an efficient feed supplement for broiler chickens. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of green Nano-Fe inclusions in diets on growth, ammonia excretion, carcass criteria, and meat quality in broiler chickens. A total of 192 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chicks, were assigned to three treatment diets including Nano-Fe oxide at 0, 20, or 40 mg/kg, respectively, for 42 days. Each treatment comprised eight replicates, each with eight broiler chicks. Two phases comprised the 42-day study (0 to 21 days for the starter and 21 to 42 days for the finisher). In comparison to the control group, the Nano-Fe oxide groups 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg linearly improved (p < 0.05) body weight (R 2 = 0.574) and body weight gain (R 2 = 0.367) under hot climatic conditions at 42 days of age. Furthermore, Nano-Fe oxide to broiler diets, improved (linear, p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (R 2 = 0.424) throughout whole periods. The feed intake did not show any significant difference (p > 0.05) among groups during the experimental periods under hot climatic conditions. The ammonia content of excreta (R 2 = 0.454) was linearly decreased (p < 0.05) with increasing Nano-Fe oxide levels in broiler diets compared to control at 21 and 42 days of age under hot climatic conditions. Nano-Fe oxide positively influences cook loss, water-holding capacity, and iron content in various tissues. Moreover, it contributes to a healthier carcass yield and reduced abdominal fat. In conclusion, broiler chickens fed diets containing Nano-Fe oxide at 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg demonstrated enhanced growth performance, improved meat quality, increased iron content in tissues, higher dressing percentage, and reduced abdominal fat deposition. Future research should explore the impact of green Nano-Fe oxide on additional factors such as the microbiome and gene expression related to immunity and heat stress.

Management of iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy in India: A review of current practices and challenges

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a major global health concern that can lead to difficulties for both the mother and the foetus, especially in pregnant women. The physiological demand of iron during pregnancy increases threefold to support fetoplacental development and maternal adaptation to pregnancy. This study aimed to identify gaps in current IDA management, limitations of conventional oral iron therapy, and the need for effective and well-tolerated treatments.The objective of this study was to understand the gap of current treatment options in IDA management, its limitations, and possible effective strategies for better management.A questionnaire-based opinion survey involving top gynecologists across India was conducted. The survey aimed to gather data on the challenges faced with conventional oral iron therapy, the desire for a change in oral iron salts, and the preference for novel oral iron prescriptions for their patients.Data obtained from the survey showed that 82% of gynecologists and obstetricians noticed challenges with conventional oral iron therapy. 86% wanted to change the oral iron salts, and 70% would like to prescribe novel oral iron for their patients. Ferric maltol, a novel form of chelated oral iron, was introduced as a potential solution for IDA management. It has been studied in various clinical indications, such as IDA associated with inflammatory bowel disease, chronic kidney disease, and pulmonary hypertension, showing significant improvements in hemoglobin and iron indices with good tolerability throughout treatment duration.The study results demonstrate that ferric maltol is a suitable and convenient treatment option for individuals seeking long-term, convenient, and well-tolerated management of IDA.

Comparative evaluation of different oral iron salts in the management of iron deficiency anemia.

Anemia affects one-fourth of the world's population and is caused mostly by iron deficiency. Iron supplementation is the most essential strategy for preventing iron deficiency anemia. Conventional oral iron salts have many drawbacks such as poor absorption & bioavailability, and poor tolerability resulting in poor clinical outcomes. To compare the effectiveness and safety of ferrous ascorbate, ferrous fumarate, ferrous bis-glycinate, and Sucrosomial iron in the management of iron deficiency anemia. The study is a retrospective observational clinical study comprising 260 subjects with hemoglobin between 7-10g/dl. The patients were divided into four groups I, II, III, and IV, and received ferrous fumarate, ferrous ascorbate, ferrous bis-glycinate, and Sucrosomial iron respectively. Hematological profile and iron store indices were measured at baseline and month 3. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey multiple comparison test was used to assess statistical significance (P < 0.05) using GraphPad Prism V.9.3.1 software. The observational study showed that hemoglobin levels were significantly increased in the ferrous ascorbate group (11.86 ± 0.09; P < 0.0001), ferrous fumarate group (11.72 ± 0.08; P < 0.0001), ferrous bis-glycinate group (11.69 ± 0.11; P = 0.0003) and Sucrosomial iron group (12.20 ± 0.1; P < 0.0001) compared to the baseline. The Sucrosomial iron-supplemented group showed significantly higher improvement in hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin levels compared to conventional oral iron salts (P < 0.05) with a better safety profile. The Sucrosomial iron showed significantly higher improvement in hemoglobin levels and higher improvement in iron store indices parameters along with a good tolerability profile compared to other conventional oral iron salts.

Dual functionality of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles as a fertilizer and supercapacitor

Nanoparticles-based fertilizers can supply nutrients more effectively to the crops that can improve agricultural productions. Ferrite nanoparticles can replace the conventional iron fertilizers. Iron is more essential for plant growth and itsdeficiency mostly affects the cellular activities. Nickel isa constituent of plant enzymes like urease that converts nitrogen into useable ammonia inside the plant. It also prevents the accumulation of toxic levels of urea in plant tissues. In spinel ferrites, Nickel ferrite is considered for many applications because of its superior properties. NiFe2O4nanoparticles exhibit excellent electrochemical performance with highest capacity. NiFe2O4 nanoparticle (NP) has been successfully synthesized using sol–gel technique and its characteristics are analysed by XRD, FTIR and SEM techniques. XRD confirms the cubic-spinel structure with crystallite size of 23.98 nm. FT-IR spectrum shows the presence of functional groups in the sample. The SEM images shows the morphology and size of the obtained nanoparticles. The results of seed priming account of nickel ferrite NPs in the growth of rice and black gram have been explored. Seeds of rice and black gram are primed with various concentrations of NiFe2O4 NPs (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mgL−1) for 24 h by continuous aeration. Plant height, spike length, dry weights of roots, shoots, grains, and spikes are greater with synthesized NPs, especially in higher rates of NPs. The results confirm that NiFe2O4 NPs made significant influence in the growth of rice and black gram. NiFe2O4 NPs are developed as electrode for supercapacitor and tested their charge storage ability by the electrochemical techniques. It exhibits specific capacitance of 360 Fg−1 and cyclic retention of 98.9 % even after 5000 GCD cycles. Bifunctional performance of NiFe2O4 NPs is demonstrated as nano fertilizer and supercapacitor which is the need for fertilizer and energy storage devices industries.

Hierarchical etching-assembly engineering of Fe-based composite microspheres with balanced magnetic-dielectric synergy towards ultrahigh electromagnetic wave absorption

Hierarchical engineering of magnetic-dielectric composite microspheres has attracted increasing attention owing to its potential to enhance electromagnetic wave absorption (EMA) through magnetic-dielectric synergy. However, optimizing magnetic-dielectric balance in composite microspheres at the nanoscale remains a formidable task due to their limited component optimization and microstructural regulation. Herein, a novel approach is proposed to modify conventional carbonyl iron powder (CIP) microspheres via synergistic etching-assembly strategy. By applying a polydopamine coating, successive tannic acid (TA) etching-assembly, and pyrolysis, hierarchical iron@carbon-1/N-doped carbon (Fe@C-1/NC) composite microspheres are obtained. This overcomes the drawbacks of CIP microspheres, including their high density and poor impedance matching, which hinder EMA performance. Hierarchical carbon layer engineering can introduce abundant dipole centers, heterogeneous interfaces, and conductive networks to induce dielectric loss, while magnetic components contribute to magnetic resonance and eddy current loss, as demonstrated by the results. Accordingly, Fe@C-1/NC composite microspheres demonstrate a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −70.7 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.75 GHz at a matching thickness of 2.3 mm. Generally, this work paves the way towards CIP engineering to provide guidance to the future exploration of hierarchical magnetic-dielectric EMA materials.

Superb green cycling strategies for microbe-Fe0 neural network-type interaction: Harnessing eight key genes encoding enzymes and mineral transformations to efficiently treat PFOA

To address time-consuming and efficiency-limited challenges in conventional zero-valent iron (ZVI, Fe0) reduction or biotransformation for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) treatment, two calcium alginate-embedded amendments (biochar-immobilized PFOA-degrading bacteria (CB) and ZVI (CZ)) were developed to construct microbe-Fe0 high-rate interaction systems. Interaction mechanisms and key metabolic pathways were systematically explored using metagenomics and a multi-process coupling model for PFOA under microbe-Fe0 interaction. Compared to Fe0 (0.0076 day−1) or microbe (0.0172 day−1) systems, the PFOA removal rate (0.0426 day−1) increased by 1.5 to 4.6 folds in the batch microbe-Fe0 interaction system. Moreover, Pseudomonas accelerated the transformation of Fe0 into Fe3+, which profoundly impacted PFOA transport and fate. Model results demonstrated microbe-Fe0 interaction improved retardation effect for PFOA in columns, with decreased dispersivity a (0.48 to 0.20 cm), increased reaction rate λ (0.15 to 0.22 h−1), distribution coefficient Kd (0.22 to 0.46 cm3∙g−1), and fraction f´(52 % to 60 %) of first-order kinetic sorption of PFOA in microbe-Fe0 interaction column system. Moreover, intermediates analysis showed that microbe-Fe0 interaction diversified PFOA reaction pathways. Three key metabolic pathways (ko00362, ko00626, ko00361), eight functional genes, and corresponding enzymes for PFOA degradation were identified. These findings provide insights into microbe-Fe0 “neural network-type” interaction by unveiling biotransformation and mineral transformation mechanisms for efficient PFOA treatment.

Hawthorn pectin/soybean isolate protein hydrogel bead as a promising ferrous ion-embedded delivery system

In this study, hydrogel beads [SPI/HP-Fe (II)] were prepared by cross-linking soybean isolate protein (SPI) and hawthorn pectin (HP) with ferrous ions as a backbone, and the effects of ultrasound and Fe2+ concentration on the mechanical properties and the degree of cross-linking of internal molecules were investigated. The results of textural properties and water-holding capacity showed that moderate ultrasonic power and Fe2+ concentration significantly improved the stability and water-holding capacity of the hydrogel beads and enhanced the intermolecular interactions in the system. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the hydrogel beads with 60% ultrasonic power and 8% Fe2+ concentration had a denser network. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic absorption experiments demonstrated that ferrous ions were successfully loaded into the hydrogel beads with an encapsulation efficiency of 82.5%. In addition, in vitro, simulated digestion experiments were performed to understand how the encapsulated Fe2+ is released from the hydrogel beads, absorbed, and utilized in the gastrointestinal environment. The success of the experiments demonstrated that the hydrogel beads were able to withstand harsh environments, ensuring the bioactivity of Fe2+ and improving its bioavailability. In conclusion, a novel and efficient ferrous ion delivery system was developed using SPI and HP, demonstrating the potential application of SPI/HP-Fe (II) hydrogel beads as an iron supplement to overcome the inefficiency of intake of conventional iron supplements.

Chromium immobilization from wastewater via iron-modified hydrochar: Different iron fabricants and practicality assessment

The recycling of industrial solid by-products such as red mud (RM) has become an urgent priority, due to their large quantities and lack of reutilization methods can lead to resource wastage. In this work, RM was employed to fabricate green hydrochar (HC) to prepare zero-valent iron (ZVI) modified carbonous materials, and conventional iron salts (IS, FeCl3) was applied as comparison, fabricated HC labeled as RM/HC and IS/HC, respectively. The physicochemical properties of these HC were comprehensively characterized. Further, hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) removal performance was assessed (375.66 and 337.19 mg/g for RM/HC and IS/HC, respectively). The influence of dosage and initial pH were evaluated, while isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics analysis were also conducted, to mimic the surface interactions. The stability and recyclability of adsorbents also verified, while the practical feasibility was assessed by bok choy-planting experiment. This work revealed that RM can be used as a high value and green fabricant for HC the effective removal of chromium contaminants from the wastewater.

Comparative evaluation of anti-anemic effect of Sucrosomial iron in experimental model of iron deficiency anemia in Wistar rats

Abstract Anemia is a grave public health issue that affects 25% of the global population. Conventional iron formulations used in treatment have drawbacks such as poor bioavailability and gastric intolerability. The current study aimed to evaluate the anti-anemic effects of different iron salts in Wistar rats with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). IDA was induced by the validated pre-clinical model by retro-orbital bloodletting (1 ml) for 21 days along with an iron-deficient diet in Wistar rats. The rats (n=48) were assigned into 8 groups: Control group, IDA rats, IDA rats receiving either vehicle or different iron salts (ferrous sulfate, ferrous ascorbate, ferrous fumarate, and Sucrosomial iron) for 21 days at a dose of 30 mg/kg p.o. Hematological parameters and iron store indices were assessed at each visit. Anemia induction markedly reduced hemoglobin levels in all IDA groups on day 21. In contrast, iron supplements showed significant improvement in hematological profile after 21 days of treatment. Interestingly, the Sucrosomial iron-supplemented group (group 8) showed significantly higher improvement in hemoglobin levels and hematocrit than did conventional iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate (group 5), ferrous ascorbate (group 6) and ferrous fumarate (group 7) (p &lt;0.05 for each group, respectively). Sucrosomial iron also showed slightly better improvement in iron store indices (serum iron &amp; ferritin levels, total iron binding capacity and transferrin saturation [%]) when compared with other iron supplements (non-significant difference). Authors concluded that Sucrosomial iron has a significant potential to improve IDA in Wistar rats compared to conventional iron salts. Sucrosomial iron can be useful for the management of IDA either prophylactically or therapeutically.