Conventional Separation Research Articles

Engineering ratchet-based particle separation via extended shortcuts to isothermality.

Microscopic particle separation plays a vital role in various scientific and industrial domains. Conventional separation methods relying on external forces or physical barriers inherently exhibit limitations in terms of efficiency, selectivity, and adaptability across diverse particle types. To overcome these limitations, researchers are constantly exploring new separation approaches, among which ratchet-based separation is a noteworthy method. However, in contrast to the extensive numerical studies and experimental investigations on ratchet separation, its theoretical exploration appears weak, particularly lacking in the analysis of energy consumption involved in the separation processes. The latter is of significant importance for achieving energetically efficient separation. In this paper, we propose a nonequilibrium thermodynamic approach, extending the concept of shortcuts to isothermality, to realize controllable separation of overdamped Brownian particles with low energy cost. By utilizing a designed ratchet potential with temporal period τ, we find in the slow-driving regime that the average particle velocity v[over ¯]_{s}∝(1-D/D^{*})τ^{-1}, indicating that particles with different diffusion coefficients D can be guided to move in distinct directions with a preset D^{*}. It is revealed that an inevitable portion of the energy cost in separation depends on the driving dynamics of the ratchet, with an achievable lower bound W_{ex}^{(min)}∝L^{2}|v[over ¯]_{s}|. Here, L is the thermodynamic length of the driving loop in the parametric space. With a sawtooth potential, we numerically test the theoretical findings and illustrate the optimal separation protocol associated with W_{ex}^{(min)}. Finally, for practical considerations, we compare our approach with the conventional ratchets in terms of separation velocity and energy consumption. The scalability of the current framework for separating various particles in two-dimensional space is also demonstrated. This paper bridges the gap between thermodynamic process control and particle separation, paving the way for further thermodynamic optimization in ratchet-based particle separation.

A Bibliometric Exploration of Multiple Criteria Decision Aid and Clustering—A Conceptual Taxonomy

ABSTRACTThis work explores the intersection of Multiple Criteria Decision Aid (MCDA) and clustering techniques, revealing unexploited potential and novel perspectives arising from their integration, challenging their conventional separation. It serves as a compass, guiding researchers through a bibliometric exploration and a conceptual taxonomy consolidating existing knowledge. Employing a two‐fold methodology, we first sketch the field's contours through a bibliometric lens, uncovering its intellectual structure, thematic landscape, and social dynamics. Then, using science mapping techniques like co‐word analysis, historiography, and collaboration network analysis, we examine patterns, revealing an interconnected mosaic of concepts. Our findings unveil a natural grouping into three categories: (1) Mixed‐yet‐not‐integrated approaches, explores sequential applications—clustering followed by MCDA or vice versa—where one method precedes and informs the other. (2) ‘Relational/ordered clustering’ leveraging criteria dependency to refine structures. (3) Using MCDA to improve clustering mechanics through similarity metrics, domain knowledge incorporation, and robustness. We conclusively propose a taxonomy along three axes: Units of Analysis, Instrumentalisation, and Objective. The key takeaway emphasises the collaborative potential of MCDA, envisioning a landscape where the integration of MCDA and clustering not only enhances existing methodologies but also spawns innovative paradigms, fostering a symbiotic relationship that transcends conventional boundaries.

Aqueous ozone effects on wheat gluten: Yield, structure, and rheology.

This study investigates the impact of aqueous ozone (AO) on the yield, molecular structure, and rheological properties of wheat gluten separated using the batter procedure. Employing strong gluten flour (SGF) and weak gluten flour (WGF), we demonstrate that AO pretreatment significantly enhances the yield and purity of separated starch and gluten. Surface hydrophobicity, free sulfhydryl groups, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman, and size exclusion-high-performance liquid chromatography (SE-HPLC) analyses were used to evaluate the effects of AO on the molecular structure of gluten. Our analysis reveals that low concentrations of AO induce specific modifications in gluten proteins. AO treatment increases cross-linking in glutenin macropolymer (GMP), reduces surface hydrophobicity, and stabilizes secondary and tertiary structures. These changes include an increase in β-sheet content by approximately 9% and a corresponding decrease in β-turn structures, leading to enhanced viscoelastic properties of the gluten. The research highlights AO's potential as a sustainable and efficient agent in wheat flour processing, offering advancements in both product quality and eco-friendly processing techniques. Future research should optimize AO treatment parameters and explore its effects on different cereal types further to enhance its applicability and benefits in food processing. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Our work substantially advances the existing knowledge on wheat flour processing by demonstrating the multifaceted benefits of AO pretreatment. We unveil significant improvements in the yield and purity of starch and gluten when compared to conventional separation methods. Moreover, our in-depth analysis of molecular changes induced by AO, including increased cross-linking, alterations in surface hydrophobicity, and modifications in glutenin macropolymer content, provides new insights into how AO affects the viscoelastic properties of gluten. This contribution is pivotal for the development of more efficient, sustainable, and eco-friendly wheat flour processing technologies.

Investigation on the oblique water entry of the flared cavity

An experimental study of the oblique water entry of a flared cavity is reported in this paper. A numerical model is established that takes gas compressibility into account. This model effectively captures the additional flow phenomena that occur due to gas expansion and contraction within the cavity. There is a significant fluctuation phenomenon during the oblique water entry of the flared cavity, which is reflected not only in the movement of the water entry bubble but also in the slamming pressure. This fluctuation phenomenon is caused by the bottom cavity of the flared cavity, which adds the additional processes of external fluid inflow and internal fluid outflow compared with the closed-bottom structure, leading to additional flow due to conventional flow separation. When the external liquid flows into the cavity, the additional flow reduces the velocity potential of the fluid near the flow separation point, causing the bubble diameter near the flow separation point to contract. At the same time, the external liquid inflow causes the gas in the cavity to compress and the slamming pressure to increase. When the liquid flows out of the cavity, the additional flow increases the velocity potential of the fluid near the flow separation point, causing the bubble diameter near the flow separation point to expand. Meanwhile, the internal fluid outflow causes the gas in the cavity to expand and the slamming pressure to decrease.

Computer aided flow investigation of liquid agricultural wastes

Liquid agricultural wastes serve as important fertilizers in modern agriculture but pose environmental and health risks due to high nitrogen compound content. To prevent soil and groundwater contamination, ammonia separation is required before waste application on fields. Conventional separation by stripping is difficult because of column clogging by solid waste loads. This work investigates, both experimentally and numerically, the flow behaviour of liquid agricultural waste to support the development of innovative separators based on inclined plates. The measurements were carried out in a newly developed experimental setup consisting of a liquid distributor over a plate with variable inclination angles. The influence of volumetric flow rate and inclination angles on the flow topology and liquid detachment from the edge of the plate was studied. While the impact of the flow rate was significant, no influence of the plate inclination angle could be observed. A CFD model was developed to support experimental work. Its validation with experimental data was successful, yet with some systematic deviation due to the model simplifications. The developed experimental setup and CFD model offer optimization potential for separation column internals designed for liquid agricultural wastes, with experiments providing higher accuracy and simulations offering flexibility.

Synergistic enhancement of oil-water separation and flame retardant properties of melamine sponges based on 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and perfluorinated compounds

Facing the escalating issue of industrial wastewater discharge and its profound environmental repercussions, the creation of novel sponge materials that excel in oil-water separation while incorporating flame retardancy becomes critically urgent. Despite their superior absorption capabilities, conventional oil-water separation sponges typically overlook flame retardant features, a limitation that curtails their applicability. To address this gap, we have developed a multifunctional hydrophobic sponge through a sophisticated multi-step chemical self-assembly process. This method grafts 9,10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and perfluorinated compounds onto melamine foam (MF), yielding a composite material designated as DOPO-PF@MF. DOPO-PF@MF boasts a dual functionality of hydrophobicity and flame retardance. Its modified surface exhibits a pronounced hydrophobic-lipophilic balance, with a static water contact angle of 134°. It also displays favorable wetting characteristics towards various organic solvents, such as methanol, ethanol, dimethylformamide, dichloromethane, and hexane. This material demonstrates an impressive adsorption capacity for these solvents, with the adsorption-desorption capacity for ethanol remaining consistent over ten cycles. Furthermore, DOPO-PF@MF efficiently separates emulsions of methylene chloride and water, showcasing its versatility. Moreover, DOPO-PF@MF exhibits commendable chemical resilience under extreme temperatures, ranging from 0 °C to 100 °C, and withstands both acidic and alkaline conditions (pH 1–14), preserving its structural integrity against corrosive substances. Most notably, it surpasses unmodified melamine foam in flame retardancy. The incorporation of DOPO fortifies the material's resistance to high-temperature ignition, effectively inhibiting flame propagation and reducing burn rate, enhancing safety measures.

In-Situ Ionothermal Synthesis of Nanoporous Carbon/Oxide Composites: A New Key to Functional Separators for Stable Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are promising high-energy energy storage systems. However, conventional polypropylene-based separator cannot avoid polysulfides shuttling and thus dramatically impedes the practical LSBs. Herein, a novel in-situ ionothermal synthesis strategy that concurrently applies ionic liquid as the solvent, template and high-yield carbon source is proposed for facile preparation of nanoporous carbon/oxides composites. Theoretical and experimental studies suggests that the composites exhibit features of high polarity, Ti3+ doping, oxygen vacancy, heteroatom doping, abundant defects and high electronic conductivity for fast trapping and conversion of polysulfides in LSBs. As functional materials towards separator modification, the assembled high-loading LSBs deliver enhanced performance due to the suppression of shuttle effects. Furthermore, the proposed strategy exhibits excellent versatility and good practicality.

Energy saving performance analysis for future fifth generation millimetre-wave cellular networks

The deployment of fifth generation (5G) millimetre-wave (mmWave) base stations (BSs) will consume more energy over time due to the limited time available, despite the increasing interest in developing 5G mmWave wireless communication technology. Constructing 5G mmWave cellular network infrastructure can improve energy efficiency, which is a challenge to implement in heterogeneous networks. This paper presents analytical frameworks for monitoring the effectiveness of 5G mmWave cellular networks. Based on the state management of BS, a system model for 2-tier heterogeneous networks is developed, and particle swarm optimization (PSO) is then used to compute the total energy consumption of the heterogeneous networks. Energy consumption was compared and analysed by leveraging state switching and the aggregate delay for three methods: fundamental separation, conventional separation, and a proposed energy-saving method that introduced a sleep state. Simulation shows that the proposed energy-saving method, which is a combination of conventional separation approaches, has the lowest total energy consumption and offers a 9% reduction compared to other related works. The results validate the accuracy of the power usage used in the 5G mmWave cellular network of the proposed method.

In-situ ionothermal synthesis of nanoporous carbon/oxide composites: A new key to functional separators for stable lithium-sulfur batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) with high energy density are promising for energy storage. However, conventional polypropylene-based separator cannot avoid polysulfides shuttling which impedes the practical application of LSBs. Herein, an in-situ ionothermal synthesis strategy that concurrently applies ionic liquid as the solvent, template and high-yield carbon source is proposed for the facile preparation of nanoporous carbon/oxide composite separator modifiers. The composites exhibit features of high polarity, self doping, oxygen vacancy, heteroatom doping, abundant defects and high electronic conductivity. Theoretical and experimental studies suggest that the composites can efficiently trap and convert polysulfides for high-performance LSBs. Indeed, in the composite-modified LSBs with next-generation roll-to-roll dry-processed high-loading sulfur cathodes, enhanced performance is achieved, revealing the effectiveness of the composites as functional materials towards separator modification. Therefore, the proposed strategy and its delivered nanoporous composites exhibit excellent versatility and practicality for high-performance LSBs.

Kinetics analysis of copper extraction from copper smelting slag by sulfuric acid oxidation leaching

Copper smelting slag (CSS) is generally produced from the pyrometallurgy of copper sulfide concentrate, the current storage disposal methods of CSS not only occupy precious land and pollute the environment, but also waste resources. To recover copper from the CSS and explore the atmospheric pressure oxidative leaching kinetics of copper extraction from CSS with sulfuric acid was investigated intensively. In this study, the effect of particle size, sulfuric acid concentration, temperature, liquid-to-solid ratio, and hydrogen peroxide added amount were investigated comprehensively. The results indicated that the decrease of particle size and increase of other parameters can significantly promote the leaching of copper. Under the optimum conditions, 90.7 % of the copper in the CSS was effectively leached, other copper in the leaching slag mainly existed in the form of fine-grained embedded copper sulfide. The dominant phase of the leaching slag is magnetite, which could be further recovered by conventional magnetic separation. Moreover, the kinetics of copper atmospheric pressure oxidative leaching in CSS were further expounded. The results indicated that the copper leaching kinetic conforms to the shrinking core model, and the overall leaching reaction was controlled by the internal diffusion control with an activation energy of 11.22 KJ/mol. The apparent reaction order of sulfuric acid and particle size are determined to be 0.965 and 0.478 respectively. Finally, the kinetics model equation is established for copper at normal pressure as:1-23η-1-η2/3=0.032·CH2SO40.965·r0-0.956·t. This research could provide an alternative solution for the efficient utilization of CSS.

Root and rhizosphere traits for enhanced water and nutrients uptake efficiency in dynamic environments.

Modern agriculture's goal of improving crop resource acquisition efficiency relies on the intricate relationship between the root system and the soil. Root and rhizosphere traits play a critical role in the efficient use of nutrients and water, especially under dynamic environments. This review emphasizes a holistic perspective, challenging the conventional separation of nutrient and water uptake processes and the necessity for an integrated approach. Anticipating climate change-induced increase in the likelihood of extreme weather events that result in fluctuations in soil moisture and nutrient availability, the study explores the adaptive potential of root and rhizosphere traits to mitigate stress. We emphasize the significance of root and rhizosphere characteristics that enable crops to rapidly respond to varying resource availabilities (i.e. the presence of water and mobile nutrients in the root zone) and their accessibility (i.e. the possibility to transport resources to the root surface). These traits encompass for example root hairs, mucilage and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) exudation, rhizosheath formation and the expression of nutrient and water transporters. Moreover, we recognize the challenge of balancing carbon investments, especially under stress, where optimized traits must consider carbon-efficient strategies. To advance our understanding, the review calls for well-designed field experiments, recognizing the limitations of controlled environments. Non-destructive methods such as mini rhizotron assessments and in-situ stable isotope techniques, in combination with destructive approaches such as root exudation analysis, are proposed for assessing root and rhizosphere traits. The integration of modeling, experimentation, and plant breeding is essential for developing resilient crop genotypes capable of adapting to evolving resource limitation.

Polyvinylidene fluoride gel‐polyethylene composite separator optimizing the interface compatibility between the separator and the electrode

AbstractThe interface issue concerning lithium dendrite formation between the separator and electrode remains a significant impediment to the further advancement of lithium‐ion batteries (LIB). Due to the inadequate interface compatibility between the conventional polyolefin separator and the electrode, there is a propensity for lithium dendrite growth. In this work, the surface of the polyethylene (PE) separator is coated with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) gel using a simple phase transformation method, resulting in the preparation of a composite separator consisting of PE and PVDF. The results demonstrate an enhanced interface compatibility following the introduction of the gel layer, with a polarization voltage as low as 0.14 V observed after 250 h of cycling. Additionally, the ionic conductivity of the PE/PVDF composite separator (1.77 mS cm−1) is enhanced, attributed to the incorporation of F functional group in PVDF gel, which could facilitate the formation of a rapid ion transport pathway through the interaction between F functional group and Li+. After the introduction of the gel layer, the discharge capacity of the battery after 250 cycles measures ~1.28 mAh, with a mere 27% decay in capacity. This study presents a novel concept for the design of composite separator in LIB.

Separation of weak acids, neutral compounds, and permanent anions using sequential elution liquid chromatography with tandem columns

This paper discusses the development of an analytical method by an alternative separation approach, sequential elution liquid chromatography (SE-LC), to separate permanently charged ions (anions), weak acids, and neutral compounds using anion exchange and reversed-phase columns in tandem. SE-LC separates classes of compounds by group by employing two or more elution modes. Advantages to using SE-LC over conventional HPLC are a greater peak capacity and a reduced separation disorder. Importantly, the same HPLC as used for a conventional HPLC separation may be used to afford a successful SE-LC separation. Mobile phase selection and gradient optimization are integral for a successful SE-LC class separation of permanent anions, weak acids, and neutral compounds and will be discussed in detail in this paper. The most successful (best resolution and repeatability) SE-LC separation was achieved by applying isocratic elution at low pH to elute the weak acids, followed by an acetonitrile gradient to elute the neutral compounds, and last a sodium methanesulfonate gradient to elute the anionic compounds using a superficially porous C18 column coupled with a strong anion exchange (SAX) column. Repeatability (RSD) in the retention times and peak areas of the analytes was less than 0.25 % and 1.5 %, respectively.

Economic Optimization of Internal Thermally Coupled Air Separation Column Configurations

AbstractAn internal thermally coupled air separation column (ITCASC) process is an effective energy‐saving technology in the air separation process. However, a large economic investment is a crucial factor for the widespread use of this technology in practical applications. In this article, an alternative configuration design, namely, top‐integrated (T‐ITCASC), bottom‐integrated (B‐ITCASC), and top‐bottom‐integrated ITCASC (T‐B‐ITCASC) with a focus on energy savings and economic feasibility are studied. A rigorous optimization based on a nonlinear interior‐point algorithm was developed by integrating the dynamic model into the optimization formulation. In the context of ITCASC process design and optimization, numerical simulations demonstrated that T‐ITCASC, B‐ITCASC, and T‐B‐ITCASC configurations improved energy‐saving potential and reduced capital investment, compared to the F‐ITCASC and conventional air separation column (CASC) configurations. Among these optimized configurations, the T‐B‐ITCASC configuration is preferred.

A Five Micron Thick Aramid Nanofiber Separator Enables Highly Reversible Zn Anode for Energy‐Dense Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries

AbstractThe rampant dendrites growth caused by uncontrolled deposition of Zn2+ ions at Zn metal anode poses a significant obstacle to the practical applications of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs). Herein, an ultrathin (5 µm) aramid nanofiber (ANF) separator is reported to enhance the Zn anode stability and the ZIB energy density. Through systematic experimental studies and DFT simulations, it is demonstrated that the ANF separator with unique surface polarity can modify the solvation configuration, facilitate desolvation, and regulate the deposition orientation of Zn2+ ions. Consequently, the Zn anode with the ANF separator demonstrates an 85‐fold increase in running time beyond 850 h compared with the conventional glass fiber separator at 5 mA cm−2/2.5 mAh cm−2. Even under the harsh depth of discharge conditions of 50% and 80%, the Zn anodes still sustain extended cycling periods of over 475 and 200 h, respectively. As pairing this ANF separator with thin Zn anode and high‐areal‐capacity Mn2.5V10O24∙5.9H2O cathode in a low negative capacity/positive capacity ratio (2.64) full cell, superior gravimetric/volumetric energy density (129.2 Wh kg−1/142.5 Wh L−1) is achieved, far surpassing majority of the ZIB counterparts reported in the literature. This work offers a promising ultrathin separator for promoting the utilization of energy‐dense aqueous ZIBs.

Facile Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity-Modified Separator with Quite-Low Loading for Enhanced-Performance Lithium Metal Batteries.

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) using Li metals as anodes are conspicuous for high-energy-density energy-storage devices. However, the nonuniform deposition of Li+ ions leading to uncontrolled Li dendrite growth, which adversely affects electrochemical performance and safety, has impeded the practical application of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, PIM-1, a type of polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM), was utilized for surface engineering of conventional polyolefin separators. This process resulted in the formation of a continuous and homogeneous coating across the separator, facilitating uniform Li+ ion flux and deposition, and consequently reducing dendrite formation. Notably, the loading mass was quite low (0.6 g/m2) through the convenient dipping method. The intrinsic micropores and polar groups (cyano and ether groups) of PIM-1 greatly improved the electrolyte wettability and ionic conductivity of commercial polypropylene (PP) separators. And the PIM-1 coating guided Li+ flux to achieve uniform Li deposition. Moreover, the polar groups (cyano and ether groups) of PIM-1 are beneficial to the desolvation of Li+-solvates. As a result, the synergetic effect of uniform Li+ flux, desolvation, and enhanced mechanical strength of separators brings about considerable improvement in cycle life, suppression of Li dendrite, and Coulombic efficiency for LMBs. As this surface engineering is simple, relatively low-cost, and effective, this work provides fresh insights into separators for LMBs.

Cationic Imidazolium-Urethane-Based Poly(Ionic Liquids) Membranes for Enhanced CO2/CH4 Separation: Synthesis, Characterization, and Performance Evaluation.

The escalating emissions of CO2 into the atmosphere require the urgent development of technologies aimed at mitigating environmental impacts. Among these, aqueous amine solutions and polymeric membranes, such as cellulose acetate and polyimide are commercial technologies requiring improvement or substitution to enhance the economic and energetic efficiency of CO2 separation processes. Ionic liquids and poly(ionic liquids) (PILs) are candidates to replace conventional CO2 separation technologies. PILs are a class of materials capable of combining the favorable gas affinity exhibited by ionic liquids (ILs) with the processability inherent in polymeric materials. In this context, the synthesis of the IL GLYMIM[Cl] was performed, followed by ion exchange processes to achieve GLYMIM variants with diverse counter anions (NTf2-, PF6-, and BF4). Subsequently, PIL membranes were fabricated from these tailored ILs and subjected to characterization, employing techniques such as SEC, FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, FEG-SEM, and CO2 sorption analysis using the pressure decay method. Furthermore, permeability and ideal selectivity assessments of CO2/CH4 mixture were performed to derive the diffusion and solubility coefficients for both CO2 and CH4. PIL membranes exhibited adequate thermal and mechanical properties. The PIL-BF4 demonstrated CO2 sorption capacities of 33.5 mg CO2/g at 1 bar and 104.8 mg CO2/g at 10 bar. Furthermore, the PIL-BF4 membrane exhibited permeability and ideal (CO2/CH4) selectivity values of 41 barrer and 44, respectively, surpassing those of a commercial cellulose acetate membrane as reported in the existing literature. This study underscores the potential of PIL-based membranes as promising candidates for enhanced CO2 capture technologies.

Fabrication electro-spun Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Melamine nonwoven membrane composite separator for high-power lithium-ion batteries

Current commercial separators used in lithium-ion batteries have inherent flaws, especially poor thermal stability, which pose substantial safety risks. This study introduces a high-safety composite membrane made from electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol)-melamine (PVAM) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer solutions via a dip coating method, designed for high-voltage battery systems. The poly(vinyl alcohol) and melamine components enhance battery safety, while the PVDF coating improves lithium-ion conductivity. The dip-coated PVDF/Esp-PVAM composite separators were evaluated for electrolyte uptake, contact angle, thermal stability, porosity, electrochemical stability and ionic conductivity. Notably, our Dip 1 % PVDF@Esp-PVAM composite separator exhibited excellent wettability and a lithium-ion conductivity of approximately 7.75 × 10⁻⁴ S cm⁻1 at room temperature. These separators outperformed conventional PE separators in half-cells with Ni-rich NCM811 cathodes, showing exceptional cycling stability with 93.4 % capacity retention after 100 cycles at 1C/1C, as compared to 84.8 % for PE separators. Our Dip 1 % PVDF@Esp-PVAM composite separator demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the long-term durability and high-rate performance of lithium-ion batteries, making it a promising option for long-term energy storage applications.

Ultra‐Stable Zinc Anodes Facilitated by Hydrophilic Polypropylene Separators with Large Scale Production Capacity

AbstractElectrochemical Performance of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs) is prominently constrained by poor stability of zinc‐metal anodes. However, the use of conventional aqueous separators unfavorable to the uniform deposition of Zn metal and restricted cell cycle life, has hindered the large‐scale application of such battery systems. Here, a separator with hydrophobic/hydrophilic structural domains (marked as PP‐g‐AA) is reported, where the polypropylene (PP) polymer backbone permits partial blockage of water molecules and prevent side reactions, and the carboxyl functional groups in the grafted acrylic acid (AA) facilitate to well regulate the interfacial electric field and Zn2+ ion concentration field, thus remarkably promotes homogenization of zinc ion flux, achieving dendritic‐free deposition of Zn2+. Moreover, the PP‐g‐AA separator sustains a long‐term cycling over 4000 h at a current density of 2 mA cm−2 with a high Coulombic efficiency of 99.6% achieved in Zn||Cu cells, which if assembled into Zn||Zn0.27V2O5·nH2O (ZVO) cells would yield ≈100% retention for 1000 cycles. This research highlights that the strategy opens up a new avenue based on PP‐g‐AA for further decreasing the cost and promoting the industrial application of AZIBs.

Ultrasonic-assisted nanofiltration separation recovering salvianolic acid B from ethanol wastewater

The transformation of salvianolic acid B brought on by heat treatment recovery of ethanol eluent, which is a difficult problem in pharmaceutical technology, affects the purity of raw material when the medicinal raw material salvianolic acid B is purified by resin. Ultrasonic-assisted nanofiltration separation (UANS) was first employed to improve efficiency of resource utilization by regulating rejection and separating salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid from organic pharmaceutical wastewater. The rejection was related to three variables: ultrasonic power, pH, and ethanol concentration. But there were differences in the effects of variables on the rejections of salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid. The rejections of rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acid B showed a decreasing trend with an increase in ultrasonic power or a decrease in pH; however, when the concentration of ethanol was increased from 5 % to 35 %, the salvianolic acid B rejection increased from 84.96 % to 96.60 % and the rosmarinic acid rejection decreased from 35.09 % to 17.51 %. On the basis of response surface methodology (RSM), the optimal UANS parameters for solution conditions involving different ethanol concentrations are as follows: 10 % ethanol solution (ultrasonic power 500 W and pH 6.15), 20 % ethanol solution (ultrasonic power 500 W and pH 6.54), and 30 % ethanol solution (ultrasonic power 460 W and pH 6.34). The molecular proportions of salvianolic acid B were 10.75 %, 7.13 %, and 8.27 % in 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % ethanol wastewater, while the molecular proportions of rosmarinic acid were 40.52 %, 33.83 %, and 69.87 %, respectively. And the recoveries of salvianolic acid B in 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % ethanol wastewater were 93.56 %, 95.04 %, and 97.30 %, respectively, while the recoveries of rosmarinic acid were 3.19 %, 2.27 %, and 0.56 %. The molecular proportion and the rejection are correlated exponentially. In comparison with conventional nanofiltration separation (CNS), UANS is able to resolve the conflict between rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acid B in pharmaceutical wastewater, as well as enhance resource recycling and separation efficiency to prevent pollution of the environment from pharmaceutical wastewater. Experiments using UANS at different power intensities suggest that the ultrasonic at a power intensity of 46–50 W/L and the power density of 0.92–1.00 W/cm2 may resolve the separation conflict between rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acid B. This work suggests that UANS may be a significant advancement in the field of ultrasonic separation and has several potential uses in the water treatment industry.