Elemental Composition Analysis Research Articles

Green synthesis of g-C3N4 decorated with SnO2 nanocomposites using a novel Ananas comosus crown extract for boosted performance of asymmetric supercapacitors

The recent development of green chemistry, when preparing nanoparticles using plants and their various parts has received a lot of attention in today's world. Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles have gained recognition for their recent advances in green synthesis. In this work, the green synthesis of a 2D g-C3N4 nanosheet decorated with SnO2 nanocomposite was prepared by Ananas comosus crown extract for electrochemical storage applications. The novel Ananas comosus crown extract acts as a reducing or capping agent for a green approach. The prepared g-C3N4/SnO2 nanocomposites were studied with structural, functional group, morphological, elemental composition, chemical state, and surface area analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET). SnO2 and various concentrations of g-C3N4 (25, 50, 75 & 100 mg) nanocomposite were investigated for electrochemical performance. At a current density of 1 Ag−1, the green synthesized (SnO2/g-C3N4 (50 mg)) SCN-50 nanocomposite displays a high specific capacitance of 302.7 Fg−1, as well as the composite demonstrates excellent capacitance retention of 94 % after 10,000 loops. Moreover, the asymmetric supercapacitor device of SnO2/g-C3N4//Activated carbon performed good reversible and cyclic stability with high energy and power density. The green synthesis of SnO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite has promising electrode materials for future energy storage devices.

Elemental profiling of agricultural soil in Hoshiarpur utilizing analytical techniques.

Our study aimed to assess the soil quality in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district through a meticulous analysis of nutrient and elemental composition. Using a variety of analytical techniques, including Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), external Particle-induced Gamma-ray Emission (PIGE) an Ion beam analysis Technique, and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF), we delved into soil characterization for 22 agricultural soil samples in the Punjab region. Within the NAA framework, utilizing the Pneumatic Carrier Facility and the self-serve facility at Dhruva reactor in Mumbai, a brief 1-min irradiation procedure identified pivotal elements-Na, Mg, V, Al, Mn, and K. Conversely, an extended neutron irradiation process of approximately 4h within the self-serve facility enabled the estimation of nearly 12 elements, including Rare Earth Elements (REEs), Transition elements, and other significant elements. The external PIGE technique quantified low Z elements (Na, Mg, Al, and Si), contributing to our analytical arsenal. Rigorously validating both NAA and PIGE methodologies, we compared results meticulously against established geological standard reference materials-specifically USGS RGM-1 and USGS AGV-1.Instrumental in elemental analysis, ED-XRF spectroscopy fortified our investigative endeavors by quick assessment of ten crucial elements. The elemental analysis revealed notable accumulations of Mn and Zn in the soil, surpassing the suggested permissible limits, whereas Co, Cr, and Pb were found to be within the recommended thresholds set by WHO/UNEP. Beyond elemental profiling, our study extended to estimate the accumulation levels of various elements utilizing ecological risk factors such as Contamination Factor, Potential Ecological Risk Index, Pollution Load Index, and Geoaccumulation Factor. Our findings highlighted significant accumulation of REEs including La, Sm and Yb.. This evaluation sheds new light on the interplay between soil composition and environmental health, emphasizing the need for advanced accessible agricultural technologies to prevent and forecast contaminant discharge in arable soil. This commitment aligns with our broader goal of advancing sustainable practices in soil management.

Chemical evaluation and bioactivity of humic substances isolated from the mangrove ecosystem

Mangroves are an ecosystem that features dark colored sediment, rich in organic matter, with humic substances as its main component, which were the target of this work that aimed to characterize those humic substances chemically and spectroscopically and compare the biological activity of different humic materials isolated from mangrove areas with different levels of anthropic interference (Maria Ortiz high and Canal dos Escravos low). The chemical and spectroscopic characterization of the humic materials was performed through the analysis of elemental composition, E4/E6 ratio, fluorescence intensity and infrared and their biological activity was tested by evaluating changes in the root growth of corn seedlings in hydroponics. The humic materials, from the Maria Ortiz area, presented higher values in the C/N ratio, higher values in the fluorescence index and lower values in the E4/E6 ratio, when compared with the humic materials from the area of Canal dos Escravos. The absorption bands of the infrared spectrum indicated similarities with respect to the chemical functionality of the humic materials, however, it was possible to notice clear differences between the study areas. All humic materials promoted, in general, changes in the root architecture of corn seedlings when compared to the control treatment. This work shows that there are differences in the chemical and spectroscopic characteristics and in the biological activity of the studied humic materials, demonstrating that the anthropic activity alters the quality of the organic matter of the mangrove sediments, which may interfere in the survival and development of the mangrove forests.

Structure of Silicon Wafers Planar Surface before and after Rapid Thermal Treatment

Presently it is important to remove mechanically disturbed layer on wafer surface during creation of up-to-date microelectronic products. Rapid thermal treatment with optical pulses of second duration is one of the applicable methods for removing disturbances in crystal lattice emerging after ion implantation. However the crystal structure of mechanically disturbed layer on wafer planar side is still unclear. Researches by transmission electronic method, analysis of diffraction reflection curve and electronic Auger spectroscopy has failed to provide reliable data about the state of crystal lattice in surface layer of at least 30 nm thickness. Hence it was impossible to suggest a model of solid phase recrystallization and to present its mathematical description. The goals of the work were as follows: – identify of silicon crystal lattice state in surface layer of 30 nm thickness before and after rapid thermal treatment by backward reflected electrons diffraction method using raw Si wafers surface; – analysis of contamination element composition on the surface of raw silicon before and after rapid thermal treatment; – model development for solid phase recrystallization of surface disturbed layer after rapid thermal treatment and its mathematical description. Images of back ward reflected electrons diffraction using surface layer of raw silicon wafers' of 30 nm thickness and also the results of the planar surface of raw silicon wafers' cleaning from impurities are provided. Processes reducing the activating energy of mechanically disturbed silicon layer recrystallization process were suggested and its mathematical description was provided. Parameters of rapid thermal treatment mitigating the thermal impact on silicon wafer for recrystallization of mechanically disturbed layer on its planar surface ware defined.

Development of a dissolution method for analyzing the elemental composition of fuel debris using sodium peroxide fusion technique

ABSTRACT A dissolution method for analyzing the elemental composition of fuel debris using the sodium peroxide (Na2O2) fusion technique has been developed. Herein, two different types of simulated fuel debris (such as solid solution of (Zr,RE)O2 and molten core – concrete interaction products (MCCI)) were taken. At various temperatures, these debris samples were subsequently fused with Na2O2 in crucibles, which are made of different materials (Ni, Al2O3, Fe, and Zr). Then, the fused samples are dissolved in nitric acid. Effects of the experimental conditions on the elemental composition analysis were evaluated using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP – AES), which suggested the use of a Ni crucible at 923 K as an optimum testing condition. The optimum testing condition was then applied to the demonstration tests with Three Mile Island unit-2 (TMI-2) debris in a shielded concrete cell, thereby achieving complete dissolution of the debris. The elemental composition of TMI-2 debris revealed by the proposed dissolution method has good reproducibility and has an insignificant contradiction in the mass balance of the sample. Therefore, this newly developed dissolution method can be effectively utilized in practical applications by dissolving fuel debris and analyzing its elemental composition.

Study of multi-elemental concentration and nano-micro structural morphology in medicinal plants by FE-SEM and EDX method.

Medicinal plants of the Moraceae family, such as Ficus racemosa linn, have been traditionally used in the North Karnataka region for treating various ailments. This study aims to analyze the elemental composition and nano-micro structural morphology of selected species of Moraceae family medicinal plants, focusing on their potential therapeutic applications. Samples were collected from the Dharwad and Gadag districts in North Karnataka. The surface morphology at nano and micro levels was examined using a field emission scanning electron microscope, while the elemental composition was analyzed through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The study emphasizes the detailed examination of the specific weight percent of elemental concentration and the morphological features observed. The analysis revealed fine, irregularly shaped particles with an average diameter of 20 to 50 μm on the plant surface. Elemental composition analysis showed the presence of Mg, Al, Si, Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn within WHO-recommended limits.

Mechanistic Insight into the Synthesis and Morphological Evolution of Superhydrophobic Silica Nanotubes.

Silica nanotubes have significant applications in various fields, including thermal insulation, self-cleaning, and catalysis. Currently, the synthesis methods of silica nanotubes are mostly limited to the template method. In this work, a template-free strategy and vapor-phase approach were used to prepare silica nanotubes. Poly(methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS) was hydrolyzed and condensed in a high-temperature closed reactor by using ammonia as a catalyst. The resulting product was then subjected to template-free self-assembly to synthesize silica nanotubes incorporating methyl groups. The silica nanotubes were synthesized under varying conditions, resulting in lengths ranging from 50 nm to several micrometers, exterior diameters between 40 and 120 nm, and wall thicknesses varying from 7 to 30 nm. The synthesized products underwent morphology analysis using TEM and FESEM for morphology analysis, elemental composition analysis using XPS, and chemical structure identification using FTIR, and the possible formation mechanism of silica nanotubes formation was also speculated. Furthermore, the coatings formed by silica nanotubes exhibited remarkable superhydrophobic self-cleaning properties with a water contact angle of 162° and a rolling angle of less than 1°.

High-Efficiency Photo-Fenton-like Catalyst of FeOOH/g-C3N4 for the Degradation of PNP: Characterization, Catalytic Performance and Mechanism Exploration.

The composite photocatalyst FeOOH/g-C3N4 was prepared through thermal polycondensation and co-precipitation methods, followed by XRD, SEM and UV-vis characterization. The stability of FeOOH/g-C3N4 was explored by the recycling test. The active species in the reaction system were investigated by the capture experiment. The results indicated that the optimal preparation condition for g-C3N4 involved calcination at 600 °C for 4 h. XRD analysis revealed that g-C3N4 exhibits a high-purity phase, and Fe in FeOOH/g-C3N4 exists in a highly dispersed amorphous state. SEM analysis showed that FeOOH/g-C3N4 has a rough surface with an irregular layered structure. Element composition analysis confirmed that the content of elements in the prepared catalyst is consistent with the theoretical calculation. FeOOH/g-C3N4 possesses the largest specific surface area of 143.2 m2/g and a suitable pore distribution. UV-vis DRS analysis showed that the absorption intensity of FeOOH/g-C3N4 is stronger than that of g-C3N4. When the catalyst dosage was 1.0 g/L, the H2O2 dosage was 4 mmol/L, the PNP initial concentration was 10 mg/L and the initial pH value was 5, the PNP removal could reach 92% in 120 min. Even after 5 cycles, the efficiency of PNP removal by FeOOH/g-C3N4 remains nearly 80%. The capture experiment indicated that both •OH and •O2- play roles in the photocatalytic degradation of PNP, with •OH being more significant. These findings affirm that FeOOH has been successfully incorporated into g-C3N4, resulting in a conspicuous catalytic effect on the degradation of PNP in the visible light-assisted Fenton-like reaction.

Novel ordered dendritic InWO4-rGO p-n heterojunction for fast response to TEA

The ternary metal oxides that combine two different metal cations is an interesting candidate as sensing material based on their interesting properties. Hence, ordered dendrite InWO4 was successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method, followed by the construction of an InWO4-rGO heterojunction to enhance detection capability for triethylamine (TEA) gas. The synthesized product underwent morphology and elemental composition analysis using various techniques. Gas sensing experiments revealed that the InWO4-rGO gas sensor, operating at the optimal temperature of 220 ℃, displayed a significantly improved response to 100 ppm TEA, with a high value of 59.5, in comparison to the pure InWO4 gas sensor (11.5 at 250 ℃). Additionally, the recovery time was reduced from 184s to 122s. Based on experimental data and gas sensing reaction theory, this study attributes the improved gas sensing performance to the formation of p-n heterojunction, a larger specific surface area and rGO's catalytic effect. This study not only introduces a novel addition to the gas sensing material family but also promotes the development of advanced gas sensors.

Enhanced H2S gas sensing utilizing UV-assisted In2O3@ZnO nanosheets

In the realm of environmental protection, there is a growing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly gas sensors. In this study, we employed a simple hydrothermal method to synthesize nanosheets composed of zinc oxide (ZnO)-doped indium oxide (In2O3), utilizing zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) as a precursor. These nanosheets demonstrated exceptional sensitivity and selectivity in detecting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas. A comprehensive analysis of crystal structure, chemical states, elemental composition, surface area, and morphology was conducted. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area measurements to assess the materials' textural properties revealed that the nanosheets labeled In2O3/0.1ZnO possessed a high specific surface area of 49.02 m2/g, greater than the 45.65 m2/g of pure In2O3 nanosheets, a crucial factor contributing to the observed exceptional sensitivity and selectivity in detecting H2S gas. Particularly noteworthy is the substantial improvement in gas detection response from 109.9 to 146.2 (approximately 24.7 %) observed in the In2O3/0.1ZnO material under UV irradiation at the optimal temperature of 250 °C. This enhancement emphasizes the material's potential for superior gas detection. The incorporation of ZIF-8-derived ZnO nanostructures played a crucial role in creating additional active sites, further enhancing the gas-sensing capabilities. Importantly, this innovative synthesis technique ensures the production of clean, non-toxic materials, aligning with environmental conservation objectives, and holds promise for achieving heightened sensitivity and selectivity in the detection of environmentally harmful gases.

Synthesis and characterization of hierarchical Sr-doped ZnO hexagonal nanodisks as an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of methylene blue dye under sunlight irradiation

This study presents the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of hierarchical hexagonal nanodisks of zinc oxide (ZnO) and strontium (Sr) doped ZnO, prepared via a hydrothermal method. The experimental synthesis procedure involved dissolving zinc nitrate in a water–ethanol mixture, followed by the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG 200), sonication, and subsequent hydrothermal treatment. Different concentrations of Sr were introduced into the ZnO lattice to generate Sr-doped ZnO samples. Analysis of the obtained results revealed successful incorporation of Sr, evidenced by shifts in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and alterations in lattice parameters. Moreover, the Williamson-Hall plot indicated minimal strain and high structural stability in both pristine ZnO and Sr-doped ZnO. The morphology of the synthesized Sr-doped ZnO was confirmed through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), revealing a hexagonal nano disk-shaped morphology akin to pristine ZnO. Elemental composition analysis conducted via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) further confirmed the presence of Sr in the doped ZnO samples. Evaluation of photocatalytic activity against methylene blue dye demonstrated superior performance of the 5 % Sr-doped ZnO catalyst, attributed to its increased surface area compared to pristine ZnO. Notably, the highest degradation rate constant (k) of 0.0389 min−1 was observed for the 5 % Sr-doped ZnO catalyst, emphasizing its efficacy in environmental remediation applications. This research underscores the potential of Sr-doped ZnO as a promising photocatalyst, offering stability, reusability, and effective utilization of UV and visible light for catalytic processes.

Enhancing surface chemistry and wetting behavior of laser-modified Ti–6Al–4V surgical titanium alloy surfaces through wet deposition of biogenic hydroxyapatite

This study focuses on enhancing the surface properties of surgical titanium alloys (Ti–6Al–4V) to optimize their suitability for biomedical implant applications. Direct laser writing (DLW) was used to modify the titanium surface and facilitate the deposition of biohydroxyapatite (BHA) particles through wet deposition and the coalescence phenomenon. Four types of etching patterns were tested, resulting in biomimetic bone-like surfaces with microtextured features, exhibiting suitable hydrophilic characteristics for biomedical implants. The resulting surfaces were characterized structurally, morphologically, chemically, and in terms of wettability. X-ray diffraction was performed to validate the titanium alloy composition and determine the crystallite size of BHA particles, both before and after thermal treatment. Optical and electron microscopy results demonstrated that the etching pattern density directly impacts the distribution and anchoring of BHA particles, with denser patterns leading to better particle fixation. Dense etching patterns were found to reduce the wettability of Ti surfaces. However, after coating with BHA particles, the contact angle decreased, resulting in more wettable surfaces. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping revealed variations in elemental distribution across different samples, providing an elemental composition analysis that supports the findings from optical and electron microscopy. The effectiveness of BHA deposition is closely tied to the density and pattern of the surface texturization. Overall, this study presents a straightforward yet effective methodology to optimize the surface properties of titanium alloys, potentially enhancing their compatibility with biological tissues.

Physicochemical analysis of deterioration affecting the darkening of rock art in Maros-Pangkep, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

This study investigates the darkening processes affecting Maros-Pangkep rock art through a comprehensive multianalytical approach. We integrate in-situ color index measurements using Nix color Pro 2 with various physicochemical characterization techniques, including optical microscopy, XRF, SEM-EDS, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR. By examining microbial, geochemical, and anthropogenic factors on rock art pigment samples, we establish a clear correlation between the formation of blackish-gray layers and reduced chromaticity values, indicating a significant darkening process. The shift in pigment color from vibrant red or purple to a prevailing blackish-gray hue is attributed to surface accumulation. Surface morphology analysis reveals distinct blackish deposits and delicate white fibrous structures on darkened rock art. Elemental composition analysis demonstrates heightened blackish deposit formation and increased phosphorus content in darkened samples. SEM-EDS characterization exposes gypsum morphology, with filament-like structures prevailing in heavily darkened samples, highlighting the role of both geochemical and microbial factors in deposit layer formation. FTIR spectra results confirm the presence of gypsum minerals, which are attributed to the substrate minerals and/or mineral weathering product, and unveil the existence of organic compounds, indicating microbial activity. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy reveals the anthropogenic contribution, notably soot deposition produced by human activities, to the darkening of rock art. This study underscores the need for a holistic preservation approach addressing natural, human, and microbial impacts on cultural heritage sites. Further research is also needed to conduct cross-sectional stratigraphical analysis to understand the accurate mechanism of the deterioration process on the rock art. Moreover, excavation measures regarding the possible relationship of soot deposition with human activities are also important to be carried out at the sites.

Functional properties and continuous adsorption process of Arenga pinnata shell and its porous biochars for aqueous methylene blue removal

Arenga pinnata shell, an agricultural-processing residue, was used as an alternative precursor for synthesizing Arenga pinnata shell particles (ASP), Arenga pinnata shell biochar (ASB), and Arenga pinnata shell activated biochar (ASAB) for methylene blue (MB) adsorption. Optimized adsorbent was observed for ASAB fabricated via an impregnation ratio of KOH to ASP of 0.5:1 (w/w) at 700 °C for 30 min of activation time under N2 pyrolysis, with a surface area, pore volume, and average pore diameter of 967 m2/g, 0.572 cm3/g, and 2.47 nm, respectively. The adsorbent also possesses the largest carbon constituent (90.4 %), negative surface charge (−36.4 mV), and abundant oxygen-containing functional groups. Dynamic MB adsorption properties on the adsorbents from the aqueous environment under continuous mode at 25 °C were determined using the Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models. Although the ASP and ASB presented comparatively favorable adsorption properties, the optimum adsorption performance was observed for the ASAB. Its superior functional features contributed to the largest adsorption capacity of 203.86 mg/g. The elemental composition analysis indicated the presence of sulfur on the ASAB surface, which supported the findings. This research demonstrates the utility of Arenga pinnata shell as an eco-friendly precursor for high-performance adsorbent fabrication with excellent MB adsorption properties.

Physical characterizations of Se-doped CdS nanostructures

The investigation thoroughly analyzes undoped and Se-doped CdS nanostructures using multiple techniques. Elemental composition analysis via EDS showed pure Cd and S in the undoped sample, while successful Se incorporation was confirmed in Se-doped samples. XRD revealed distinct CdS phases, with reduced intensity and broadening after Se-doping, indicating lower crystalline quality. The (111) peak shift confirmed Se substitution in the CdS lattice. Williamson-Hall and Monshi-Scherrer analyses demonstrated smaller crystallite sizes and increased lattice strain after Se-doping. FESEM displayed smaller grain sizes after Se-doping. PL analyses showed diminished crystalline quality and reduced intensity. UV–Vis indicated increased absorption and reduced transmission after Se-doping. Bandgap energy declined due to Se-doping and potential CdSe phase formation. Raman spectroscopy confirmed reduced crystalline quality. Se-doping enhances photon absorption, potentially improving optical properties for diverse applications. The study provides a detailed assessment of Se-doped CdS nanostructures, highlighting structural, optical, and morphological changes, valuable for various technological applications.

High-intensity interval training mitigates the progression of periodontitis and improves behavioural aspects in rats.

To investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on periodontitis (PD) progression and behavioural outcomes. Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups: non-trained (NT); non-trained with PD; HIIT with PD; and HIIT. The HIIT protocol, involving daily treadmill sessions, spanned 8 weeks, with PD induced by ligature after the 6th week. Behavioural tests were conducted to assess anxiety and memory. Post euthanasia, we evaluated the systemic inflammatory profile and oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus and amygdala. A morphological evaluation and elemental composition analysis of the mandibular alveolar bone were performed. PD exacerbated alveolar bone level, bone surface damage and alterations in calcium and phosphorus percentages on the bone surface (p < .05), while HIIT attenuated these changes (p < .05). HIIT improved systemic inflammatory markers altered by PD (tumour necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-10, TNF-α/IL-10 and IL-1β/IL-10 ratios, p < .05). PD animals exhibited lower total antioxidant capacity and levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the amygdala and hippocampus, respectively (p < .05). HIIT maintained these parameters at levels similar to those in NT animals. HIIT improved anxiety and memory outcomes altered by PD (p < .05). HIIT attenuates systemic inflammation, anxiety and memory outcomes promoted by PD.

Leaching-induced deterioration of shear bonding strength and micro-Vickers hardness of the ITZ modified by micro-SiO2 and nano-SiO2

The interfacial transition zone (ITZ) serves as a critical juncture between aggregate and cement paste in concrete, particularly vulnerable to calcium leaching. This study investigates the impact of water-cement (w/c) ratio and micro-SiO2 and nano-SiO2 content on the deterioration of shear bonding strength and micro-Vickers hardness of the ITZ during leaching. Analysis of ITZ micro-structure and elemental composition is conducted using backscattering electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy (BSEM/EDS), and a deterioration model for the shear bonding strength of the leached ITZ is established. Results indicate that during leaching, shear bonding strength and micro-Vickers hardness of the ITZ are approximately 28 % and 67 % of those of the cement paste, respectively. A linear relationship between the shear bonding strength of the ITZ and its micro-Vickers hardness is observed when employing the same type of admixture. Mechanical properties and leaching resistance of the ITZ diminish progressively with increasing w/c ratio. Conversely, they exhibit an initial enhancement followed by decline with increasing micro-SiO2 and nano-SiO2 contents, with optimal contents of 8 % and 2 %, respectively. Micro-SiO2 and nano-SiO2 are found to enhance long- and short-term leaching resistance of cement-based materials, respectively. Additionally, the shear bonding strength of the ITZ decreases linearly with increased degree of area leaching. These findings enhance our understanding of the deterioration behavior of the ITZ and provide an important foundation for studying the durability changes of concrete subjected to calcium leaching.

Fabrication of ZnO/ Bi2O3/PVA coated glass for X-ray detection and measurement

Electrospun ZnO/Bi2O3/PVA-coated glass samples were fabricated using electrospinning method, with varying ZnO molarities (0 M, 5 M, and 7 M) and Bi2O3 weight percentages (wt%) to assess their potential for x-ray detection and measurement. Sample morphology and elemental composition analysis revealed well-distributed nanofiber strands on the glass substrate, with even dispersion of elements within the nanofiber across all samples. The effective atomic number (Zeff) of the sample is consistently enhanced with the addition of Bi2O3 and higher ZnO molarity, where sample with 7 wt% Bi2O3 own a greater Zeff value (41.56–44.12) than sample with 5 wt% Bi2O3 (37.22–40.54). All samples except Sample A0 and B0 exhibited strong absorbance between wavelength range of 360 nm–400 nm. Sample A0 and B0 yielded energy band gaps (Eg) of 2.39 eV and 2.37 eV, respectively, whereby samples with ZnO exhibit energy gaps of Eg = 3.29 eV (Sample A1), Eg = 3.27 eV (Sample A2), Eg = 3.25 eV (Samples B1 and B2). All samples underwent x-ray exposure at various tube voltages (40–60 kVp) to assess their attenuation ability for x-ray detection and measurement. Sample B2 (5 wt% Bi2O3 and 7 M ZnO) exhibited the most favorable linear response, while Sample B1 (5 wt% Bi2O3 and 5 M ZnO) displayed favorable energy dependency. Thus, the electrospun ZnO/Bi2O3/PVA-coated glass with these compositions are proposed as potential dosimetry material due to their favorable linear response and energy dependency characteristics.

Molecular composition of clouds: a comparison between samples collected at tropical (Réunion Island, France) and mid-north (Puy de Dôme, France) latitudes

Abstract. The composition of dissolved organic matter of cloud water has been investigated through non-targeted high-resolution mass spectrometry on only a few samples that were mostly collected in the Northern Hemisphere in the USA, Europe and China. There remains, therefore, a lack of measurements for clouds located in the Southern Hemisphere, under tropical conditions and influenced by forest emissions. As a matter of fact, the comparison of the composition of clouds collected in different locations is challenging since the methodology for the analysis and data treatment is not standardized. In this work, the chemical composition of three samples collected at Réunion Island (REU) during the BIO-MAÏDO field campaign, in the Indian Ocean, with influences from marine, anthropogenic and biogenic (tropical) emissions, is investigated and compared to the chemical composition of samples collected at the Puy de Dôme (PUY) observatory in France. The same methodology of analysis and data treatment was employed, producing a unique dataset for the investigation of the molecular composition of organic matter in cloud water. Besides the analysis of elemental composition, we investigated the carbon oxidation state (OSC) of dissolved organic matter, finding that overall samples collected at PUY are more oxidized than those collected at REU. Molecular formulas were also classified based on stoichiometric elemental ratios, showing the high frequency and abundance of reduced organic compounds, classified as lipids (LipidC), in this matrix, which led to a search for terpene oxidation products in cloud water samples. To better discriminate between samples collected at PUY and REU, statistical analysis (principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering) was performed on the ensemble of molecular formulas and their intensities. Samples collected at REU have a different composition from samples collected at PUY, which is mainly linked to different primary sources, the processing of organic matter in cloud water and the influence of different primary emissions at the two locations.

ADSORPTION OF CATION DYE USING ACTIVATED CARBON DERIVED FROM GOLDEN SHOWERSEED POD ( C ASSIA FISTULA)

This study investigated the use of Golden shower seed pod (cassia fistula) as an adsorbent for the removal of cationic dye in a batch system. The raw material was Carbonized at 600 oC for one hour to obtain a purely carbonized material; then impregnated with NaOH of 0.1M and allowed to stay for 24 hours to obtain the desired GS-AC activated carbon. The adsorbent was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) elemental composition analysis. The effects of adsorbent dosage and contact time on the adsorption process were studied in a batch system. The results revealed that, there was good enhancements in pores of the adsorbent GS-AC due to the chemical impregnation. The FTIR spectra showed the presence C-H, NH 2, C-O, and S=O functional groups indicating a favourable surface for adsorption. Batch studies indicated that, the methylene blue uptake decreased with increase in the GS-AC dosage. The amount of Methylene blue adsorbed onto GS-AC increased with time and subsequently remained constant at some point in time with maximum uptake at 500 mg/l. Thus, adsorption capacity of methylene blue increased with longer contact time, indicating a stronger interaction between the adsorbent and the dye. Based on the findings, Golden shower seed pod (cassia fistula) impregnated with NaOH can be used as an alternative and suitable material for cationic dye removal from liquid phase.