Energy Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis Research Articles

A structural study and some magnetic properties of the (Sc,Nb)Fe2 series of compounds

We report on the effects of Nb for Sc substitution on the structural and magnetic properties of the Sc1-xNbxFe2 series of compounds by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, X-ray powder diffraction, and magnetic measurements. The study focus on hexagonal P63/mmc crystal symmetry structure of the ScFe2 phase retained along the series. Whereas the unit cell is found to decrease regularly upon increasing the niobium content the magnetic properties are found to evolve in a non monotonous manner. A drop of the magnetization and Curie temperature is observed upon substitution, the highest TC being 530 K. Indeed, it is shown that Nb for Sc substitution induces dramatic changes of the magnetic properties such as a strong decrease of the ordering temperature and significant reduction of the spontaneous magnetization for Nb content above x=0.2 and 0.1, respectively. The highest magnetization is found for the Sc rich side with values of about 2.6 µB/f.u. corresponding to 1.3 µB/Fe atom. Moreover, compounds with x=0.75 and 1 are no longer exhibiting ferromagnetic order even at 2 K. The easy magnetization direction of Sc1-xNbxFe2 series of compounds is determined to be along the c-axis at room temperature.

Comparative Analysis of Tissue Copper Levels in Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) Patients

ABSTRACT Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a recognized potentially malignant oral condition linked to the consumption of areca nut. Chewing areca nut has been shown to elevate soluble copper levels in mouth fluids. Materials and Methods: Participants: The study included a panel of 30 patients with OSMF from Rama Dental College, Kanpur, India, and 30 nonareca chewing individuals serving as controls. Tissue Sample Collection and Analysis: Buccal mucosal biopsies were obtained from both OSMF patients and controls. The tissue copper concentrations were quantified using mass absorption spectrometry (MAS). Additionally, energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) was employed to identify the presence and distribution of copper in the tissue. Statistical Analysis: Statistical comparisons were performed using appropriate methods, with a P-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: MAS analysis revealed that the mean tissue copper level was 6.2 ± 3.1 micrograms per gram (μg/g) in OSMF specimens (n = 30), slightly higher than the 4.5 ± 2.0 μg/g in the nonareca chewing controls (n = 30) (P = 0.1). EDX analysis showed distinct copper peaks in both the epithelium (22/23) and connective tissue (18/23) of OSMF specimens compared to control biopsies. These findings were corroborated by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) in a subset of samples. Conclusion: The study revealed higher copper concentrations in buccal mucosal tissue of OSMF patients from Rama Dental College, Kanpur, suggesting a potential connection between copper and the initiation of OSMF.

Effect of substrate temperature on structure, morphology and optical properties of Sb2Se3 thin films fabricated by chemical-molecular beam deposition method from Sb and Se precursors for solar cells

Sb2Se3 thin films were obtained by chemical-molecular beam deposition on soda-lime glass from high purity Sb and Se precursors at 400 °C, 450 °C and 500 °C substrate temperature. Due to the precise control of the Sb/Se ratio, Sb2Se3 thin films with stoichiometric composition were obtained, which was confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. The effect of substrate temperature on morphology, structure and optical properties of Sb2Se3 thin-films were studied by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and from the analysis of absorption and transmission spectra of the films. Average diameters and lengths of Sb2Se3 rods deposited at different substrate temperature were the range of 0.5–2 µm and 1–4 µm respectively which was grown at different slope and compactness to the substrate. The optical bandgap of the films was determined from the transmission and reflection spectra and 1.16, 1.21 and 1.26 eV band gap energies were observed for 500, 450 and 400 ℃ substrate temperature Sb2Se3 thin films respectively.

Fe3O4@SiO2 core/shell functionalized by gallic acid: a novel, robust, and water-compatible heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst for environmentally friendly synthesis of acridine-1,8-diones.

In this study, we conveniently prepared a novel robust heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst using a Fe3O4@SiO2 core/shell stabilized by gallic acid. The catalyst was completely characterized by various physicochemical techniques, including infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), potentiometric titration, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), zeta potential analysis, and BET. The potential ability of the newly developed sulfonated nanocatalyst was then exploited in the multicomponent synthesis of acridine-1,8-dione derivatives by considering the green chemistry matrix and under mild conditions. Various aldehydes and amines were smoothly reacted with dimedone, affording the desired products in good to excellent yields. The introduction of sulfonic groups using gallic acid allowed the development of a water-compatible and highly recyclable catalytic system for reactions in an aqueous environment. The prepared catalyst can be readily magnetically separated and reused eight times without significant loss of activity. High synthetic efficiency, using a recyclable and eco-sustainable catalyst under mild conditions, and easy product isolation are salient features of this catalytic system, which makes this protocol compatible with the demands of green chemistry.

Characterization of Synthetic Brushite Material Precipitated at Room Temperature Developed for Kidney Stone Treatment

Studies on Brushite, which was initially considered as a mineral found in caves, started when it was seen in kidney stones, and finally its applications continued. These studies were focused on synthetically obtaining Brushite. The biggest difficulty in obtaining Brushite synthetically is the execution of complex chemical and sequential processes at high temperatures. Obtaining a stable crystal structure at high temperatures brings another challenge. In this study, for the first time in the literature, the synthesis of Brushite at room temperature by using simple electrolyte, characterization of the precipitates with different methods, and the details of their electrochemical and mechanical behaviour were shared with the readers. Brushite was precipitated on the X2CrNiMo17‐12‐2 materials by using electrolytic method. In the characterization of Brushite deposits, energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and optical microscope with image analyser were used. Dynamic ultramicro hardness, scratch, and friction‐wear testing equipment were used in mechanical analyses. It has been determined that the electrochemical decomposition of the Brushite material, which was successfully synthesized at room temperature, is quite difficult, and a mechanical load of 10 mN has been defined to be the critical value.

ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ МИКРОВКЛЮЧЕНИЙ МЕТАЛЛОВ И МИНЕРАЛОВ В ГОРНЫХ ПОРОДАХ: ПРОБЛЕМЫ ИНТЕРПРЕТАЦИИ РЕЗУЛЬТАТОВ И ИХ ПРИМЕНЕНИЕ ПРИ ИЗУЧЕНИИ МАГМАТОГЕННЫХ СИСТЕМ КАМЧАТКИ И СТАНОВОЙ СКЛАДЧАТОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

The article discusses the problems of interpreting the results of studies on microinclusions of metals and minerals by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis, which are related to the influence of the matrix material. The method was shown to work well when studying “relatively large” (5-10 μm) microinclusions for the purpose of their phase identification and semi-quantitative determination of composition normalized to 100%. The possibilities of “cleaning” the analysis results from “additives” introduced by matrix elements are discussed, as well as criteria for assessing the distance from the boundaries of a micro-object at which the influence of the matrix becomes minimal. The use of the results obtained using these approaches is illustrated by the examples of studying the petrology and metallogeny of igneous rocks of Kamchatka and the Stanovoy fold belt, during which new data were obtained on petrological processes in the mantle-crustal substrate beneath the active volcanic arc and on the evolution of the ore-magmatic system beneath the ancient active continental margin.

Novel direct synthetic route of 2D Prussian Blue analogue, nanocrystalline CuHCF, as highly effective cathode materials for Zn-ion supercapacitors

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) with 2D morphology of nanocrystals have attracted much attention for aqueous electrolyte-based energy storage devices. In this study, we synthesized a 2D Prussian blue analogue, nanocrystals of copper hexacyanoferrate (CuHCF), via a facile stepwise route involving a modified copper substrate of Cu(OH)2 nanorods that was used for the formation of two-dimensional CuHCF crystals. These materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The cathode based on 2D CuHCF exhibits high specific capacity (240 F/g (63.9 mAh/g) at 0.1 A/g) with excellent cycling stability (98.5% retention after 1000 charge-discharge cycles) in 3 M ZnSO4 electrolyte. The flat two-dimensional morphology of CuHCF provides sufficient ion diffusion channels and the numerous electroactive interfaces for intercalation charge storage.

Effects of Pollution on the Haematology of Cyprinus carpio Inhabiting two Government Sponsored Fish Ponds in East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, India

Adult Cyprinus carpio were collected from two government sponsored fish ponds located at Fish Dale and Laitkyrhong, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, India. The effects of pollutants on haematological parameters of Cyprinus carpio were studied. The results showed a decline in RBC and WBC count and haemoglobin content in fishes collected from Laitkyrhong. Micronucleus assaywas carried out following standard protocols and observations were made using Olympus, BX- 53 image analyser, CellSens Standard (software). Analysis showed a number of micronucleus and nuclear abnormalities of the erythrocytes of Cyprinus carpio from Laitkyrhong as compared to fishes from Fish Dale. Scanning Electron Microscopy study revealed swollen erythrocytes called spherocytes, ruptured erythrocytes and crenations at the erythrocyte membranes while the control erythrocytes showed normal features. The Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopic analysis was by INCA-7582 (Oxford) Energy Dispersive X-ray microanalyser equipped with a Si (Li) high resolution detector attached to the scanning electron microscope, JSM-6360 (Jeol). Differences in the EDS spectra of RBCs from control, Laitkyrhong and Fish Dale fishes were observed to be in terms of Silicon (Si), Aluminium (Al) and Titanium (Ti) were absent in the control sample. The presence of silicon in erythrocytes of fishes inhabiting Fish Dale and Laitkyrhong area suggests that silicon may be the main factor for the various deformities in the haematological parameters of Cyprinus carpio. The deformities observed may affect the growth and survival of these fishes. Therefore, there is a constant need to check the flow of polluted waters in the rearing ponds especially during the rainy seasons. The present study suggests that haematological study may serve as a tool in determining the health of the fish and the type of environment in which it lives.

The armoured cuticle of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens

We characterise in detail the larval and pupal cuticle of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), a key insect species in circular economy. In particular, we focus on ultrastructure using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, material characterization and composition (elements and minerals) with confocal laser scanning microscope, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, powder X-ray diffraction and mechanical properties with nanoindentation measurements. Calcium carbonate crystallizes on the epicuticle as blocks of calcite in the pupal cuticle. Calcium carbonate granules are stored in two specialised Malpighian tubules. CaCO3 is already present in the cuticle of young larval instars, but it is mainly in the form of amorphous calcium carbonate while the amount of calcite increases during larval development. The presence of calcite leads to cuticle hardening. Larval and pupal cuticles contain large amounts of resilin which guarantee cuticle flexibility.

Structural, electrical, and magnetic characteristics of eco-friendly Dy modified BiFeO3 ceramics

The study of basic crystal structure, dielectrics, magnetic and electrical characteristics of a high temperature sintered dysprosium (Dy) substituted bismuth ferrite (BFO) ceramic material, Bi(Fe0.90Dy0.10)O3 (abbreviated as BFDO10) has been reported in this work. The solid-state reaction (SSR) technique is adopted for synthesizing the material. Study of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) data shows an orthorhombic symmetry. The approximate crystallite size is found to be 29 nm. The field emission scanning electron micrograph (FESEM) shows a high density grains of the sample and energy dispersive X-ray micro-analysis (EDXMA) reveals the presence of its basic components. The extensive analysis of the dielectric and electrical properties of the sample was carried out within a frequency from 1 kHz to 1000 kHz and temperature ranges from 25 to 500 °C. A study of the impedance spectroscopy reveals a negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) behavior and a non-Debye type of dielectric relaxation process of the compound. The ac-conductivity (σac ) of the material follows Jonscher’s universal power law. A study of the electric field polarization confirms the enhancement in remnant polarization and coercive field. The magnetic property shows an enhancement in ferromagnetic orders by virtue of this doping. Moreover, several other interesting features which could be utilized for modern device applications also specified in this article.

Use of in-situ synthesized magnetic ferrite to remove heavy metals from waters

Exposure to low levels of Pb(II) and Cd(II) is a public health concern, particularly in developing countries where regulations are more permissive. The consequences of such exposure are very serious, especially for infants, children and pregnant women. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate rapid, economical and feasible methods for its elimination, being this goal the purpose of this work. A novel procedure for the simultaneous removal of both species in water at different concentrations by in situ formation of magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) is discussed here. Optimization of the experimental conditions led to approximately 100 % removal efficiency in only 5 min. The sorbent material was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. In addition, the removal process of Pb(II) and Cd(II) was characterized by adsorption Langmuir isotherms. The thermodynamics of the removal of both species, Pb(II) and Cd(II), from water has been studied by fitting the adsorption isotherms and calculating the Gibbs free energy and enthalpy of the process. The results indicate that the adsorption process can be explained as a combination of physical and chemical adsorption. Moreover, the findings of this work show a faster and more economical process than those previously described, which also allows a simultaneous removal of both metals.

SYNTHESIS AND PPOPERTIES OF ZNO/ZNWO4 NANOCOMPOSITES FOR PHOTOELECTROCHEMICAL APPLICATIONS:

A series of ZnO/ZnWO4 nanocomposites with different ZnWO4 content based on ZnO and WO3 nanopowders electrochemically synthesized under pulse alternating current was obtained. A complex of physicochemical methods (X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis) was used to study the composition and structural characteristics of the obtained materials. The nanocomposite with optimal composition (ZnO 90%, ZnWO4 ~6%) was used as a photoanode material for a flow photocatalytic fuel cell with sulfate electrolyte with the addition of organic and inorganic fuel. The maximum values of Eoc and Pmax, which were 850 mV and 85.8 μW/cm2, respectively, were achieved using Na2SO4 with the addition of glucose as a fuel.

Monitoring of surrogate zoonotic parasites of Anisakidae and Echinobothrium deeghai as bioindicators by application of energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA).

The unique characteristic of quickly altered but stable response by helminth parasites against metals and elements in a variety of aquatic ecosystems because of pollution conditions merit these as significant markers of fish health as well as of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Biomagnification of toxicants released in aquatic reservoirs by human mediated processes incorporating mining in coastal zones, industrial and agricultural inputs contributed to damaging consequences of human health due particularly to human consumption of edible fish and other biota that are exposed to contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. The metals and elements analysed could be arranged in decreasing order of concentration were found to be, P > Ca > Cd > Mn > Hg > Pb > As > Zn > S > Fe > Al > Cr > Mg > Cl. The association between Echinobothrium deeghai and Rotundocollarette capoori demonstrated surrogate relationship to drain in highly toxic heavy metals like Hg, Cr, As, Cd, from the ambience in the micro-environment of cestodes and nematodes and thus acted as benefactors for the life of the brackish water oceanodromous fish.

ЭЛЕМЕНТНЫЙ СОСТАВ МИНЕРАЛЬНЫХ ФАЗ В ТОРФЯНЫХ ОТЛОЖЕНИЯХ БОЛОТА ДУЛИХА (ПРИБАЙКАЛЬЕ) ПО ДАННЫМ МЕТОДОВ РЕНТГЕНОСПЕКТРАЛЬНОГО АНАЛИЗА

The paper deals with a detailed study of the Holocene core of drilling peat deposits of the upland (oligotrophic) Dulikha bog. Based on the results of non-destructive X-ray fluorescence analysis, SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 oxides predominate in the peat deposit chemical composition along the section depth. The main minerals of the peat ash part are mica, quartz, plagioclase, bassanite, potassium feldspar; secondary one is chlorite, accessory ones are amphibole, illite. The study results of peat substance by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis showed that peat deposits are represented by a mixture of particles and conglomerates of various shapes and sizes. The elemental composition of the main matrix of samples is presented by an organic component with a high content of C and O and silicate mineral component with a content of Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe. Single small bright particles of facetted and semi-facetted shape with a high content of Fe, Ti, Ca, Ba and W occur in almost all studied peat samples. The mineral component of these particles may be represented by magnetites, titanites, single metal granules. The upper interval of the peat bog section (0-20 cm) is characterized by increased concentrations of Cu and Zn, that may be due to both anthropogenic stress on swamp ecosystems and high biophillyng, i.e. the ability to accumulate living matter.

A study on the measurement of GSR with bloodstains by ICP-MS

Abstract In forensic laboratories, analytical investigations of gunshot residues (GSRs) are usually conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in combination with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis. If GSRs are covered with bloodstains, SEM cannot detect them. In this study, an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method is proposed to solve this problem. Results show that bloodstains did not interfere with GSRs and low-level elements are detected. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of Sn, Sb, Ba, and Pb elements in GSRs are also carried out. In addition, testing of GSRs from a type 95–1 rifle and a type 92 pistol is also proposed. Different pretreatment methods are adopted according to the characteristics of different samples. Our investigations suggest that the proposed method has the advantages of low detection limit and high sensitivity and it can be very important in expert testimony.

Aluminium bioaccumulation in colon cancer, impinging on epithelial-mesenchymal-transition and cell death

We investigated the presence of aluminium (Al) in human colon cancer samples and its potential association with biological processes involved in cancer progression, such as epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell death. 25 consecutive colon samples were collected from patients undergoing colonic resection. Both neoplastic and normal mucosa were collected from each patient and subjected to histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical analyses. Moreover, colon samples from two Al-positive patients underwent multi-omic analyses, including whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing (RNAseq). Morin staining, used to identify in situ aluminium bioaccumulation, showed the presence of Al in tumor areas of 24 % of patients. Transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis confirmed the presence of Al specifically in intracytoplasmic electrondense nanodeposits adjacent to mitochondria of colon cancer cells. Immunohistochemical analyses for vimentin and nuclear β-catenin were performed to highlight the occurrence of the EMT phenomenon in association to Al bioaccumulation. Al-positive samples showed a significant increase in both the number of vimentin-positive and nuclear β-catenin-positive cancer cells compared to Al-negative samples. Moreover, Al-positive samples exhibited a significant decrease in the number of apoptotic cells, as well as the expression of the anti-apoptotic molecule BCL-2. Multi-omic analyses revealed a higher tumor mutational burden (TMB) in Al-positive colon cancers (n = 2) compared to a control cohort (n = 100). Additionally, somatic mutations in genes associated with EMT (GATA3) and apoptosis (TP53) were observed in Al-positive colon cancers. In conclusion, this study provides the first evidence of Al bioaccumulation in colon cancer and its potential role in modulating molecular pathways involved in cancer progression, such as EMT and apoptosis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying Al toxicity might contribute to improve strategies for prevention, early detection, and targeted therapies for the management of colon cancer patients.

Achieving Fast Oxygen Reduction on Oxide Electrodes by Creating 3D Multiscale Micro-Nano Structures for Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

Fast oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode is a key requirement for the realization of low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). While the design of three-dimensional (3D) structures has emerged as a new and promising approach to improving the electrochemical performance of SOFC cathodes, achieving versatile structures and structural stability is still challenging. In this study, we demonstrate a novel architectural design for a superior cathode with fast ORR activity. By employing a completely new fabrication process comprising a 3D printing technique and pulsed laser deposition (PLD), we design 3D La0.8Sr0.2CoO3-δ (LSC) micro-nano structures with the desired shape. 3D-printed yttria-stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) microstructures significantly increase the ratio of surface area to volume while maintaining suitable ionic conductivity comparable to that of single-crystalline YSZ substrates. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis reveal the formation of crack- or void-free YSZ microstructures and the uniform deposition of LSC films by PLD on the YSZ microstructures. The 3D LSC micro-nano structures show significantly enhanced oxygen surface exchange coefficients (kchem) extracted from electrical conductivity relaxation (ECR) measurements by up to 3 orders of magnitude relative to the bulk LSC. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements verify the kchem values from ECR and no directional difference in the measured ORR activity depending on the shape of 3D microstructures. The dramatic enhancement of the ORR activity of LSC is attributed to the increased film surface areas resulting from the 3D YSZ microstructures.

FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS FROM PAPER WASTES. V. SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF HYBRID NANOCOMPOSITES OF POWDER CELLULOSES ISOLATED FROM WASTE PAPER AND SILVER NANOPARTICLES

Hybrid nanocomposites of powder celluloses (PCs) isolated from newsprint and cardboard waste containing silver nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using the diffusion-reduction method. The reduction of silver from solutions of its salt was carried out under heterogeneous conditions using trisodium citrate as a reducer. Molar ratio (MR) of PC/silver varied from 20 to 40. The mechanism of silver NPs formation and stabilization in the reduction process was considered. The hybrid nanocomposites were studied by IR-Fourier spectroscopy, high-resolution 13С NMR spectroscopy in a solid phase, wide-angle X-ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDRA). It was shown that the silver particles had spherical shape and their size on the surface of the PC was mostly less than 100 nm. The silver content in the nanocomposites ranged from 1.2 to 7.3 wt.%. The preparation of NPs did not change in the structural modification of cellulose I after the reaction. During the modification of PCs with silver nanoparticles, the cellulose matrix was involved in a redox process, which was accompanied by the formation of new intermolecular bonds between the NPs and the matrix.

Comparison of the Effects Metal Inert Gas and Laser Beam Welding on Duplex Stainless Steel Properties

In this study, optimal characteristics for duplex stainless steels (2507DSS) are attained when austenite and ferrite are present in roughly equal amounts in the microstructure. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to compare how different metal inert gas (MIG) and laser welding (LBW) parameters affect the weld characters of joints that are butt welded joints of duplex stainless steel plate with thickness of 8mm, the speed is constant and changing beam power, with argon shielding gas. Conventional MIG welding parameters are ranges; current, voltage are constant with changing speed and using gas mixture Ar and CO2 with a filler metal, and a single V groove. Investigation of welded joints has been carried out using different methods visual inspection, optical micro structure, hardness measurements, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis and tensile test. The results achieved in this investigation disclosed that welding parameters obtaining satisfactory properties of welded joint; no visible welding flaws, porosity and incompetent penetration. The fusion zone's grain size is finer in LB than MIG welding. EDX microscopic analysis reveals a slightly different structure in MIG and LB welds of BM microstructure, with filler altering Fe element and C-carbone content, causing brittleness due to ferrite content. The hardness results showed that no appreciable differences between MIG and LB in the welding bool area zone were equalled (265- 289Hv) respectively. Tensile strength and ductility increased with MIG and LBW in HAZ, at the same time laser welded specimens showing the highest ductility and strength.

ZnO nanocomposites containing Cd are synthesized with high photodegradation potential for wastewater treatment

The zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle on a two - electron oxygen reduction reaction is a particularly promising candidate for in-situ application. Herein, we prepared the Cd doped ZnO nanocomposites through a simple hydrothermal method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis has been carried out to confirm the structure and size of the nanomaterial. The optical absorption and energy gap of the prepared nanoparticles have been identified by UV–vis-NIR studies. Photoluminescence (PL) studies on the synthesized nanomaterials confirm the characteristic existence of blue and green emission bands. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy has been studied on the ZnO nanoparticles to analyze the -OH and CO-O vibrations. The structural and surface morphology analysis was inferred by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis. Cd doped ZnO nanocomposites are environmentally friendly and can be utilized to quickly remove contaminants from wastewater. The findings from the adsorption equilibrium fit the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) model very well, showing multi-layer adsorption. The photodegradation studies on Cd doped ZnO nanocomposites were carried out, which is an advanced oxidation process widely used for methylene blue removal. Therefore, the higher photocatalytic performance revealed that Cd doped ZnO nanocomposites could be a promising photocatalyst for environmental remediation applications.