Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy Analysis Research Articles

A 3D in vitro model of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold combined with human osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells as a platform to mimic the oral microenvironment for tissue regeneration

Objectives: This study aimed to develop an innovative 3D in vitro model based on the biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold combined with human osteoblasts (hOBs), osteoclasts (hOCs), and endothelial cells to evaluate its effects on bone and vascular cells behavior. Methods: To this end, an optimized mixture of hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) with a weight ratio of 30/70 was employed to develop a BCP scaffold using the computer-aided design (CAD) approach. The BCP scaffold was combined with primary cultures of hOBs, hOCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results: Morphometric analyses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray micro-computed tomography, along with biomechanical testing, revealed that BCP scaffold exhibited a regular 3D structure with large interconnected internal pores (700 µm) and high mechanical strength. In terms of biological behavior, after 14 days of tri-culture with hOBs, hMCs and HUVECs, SEM, immunofluorescence, and histological analyses showed that all cell types were viable and adhered well to the entire surface of the scaffold. Interestingly, SEM and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses also revealed on the BCP scaffold the presence of mineralized matrix crystals of Ca, P, O and C within a tissue-like cell layer produced by the interaction of the three cell types. Conclusions: Data confirmed the high performance of the BCP scaffold through biomechanical studies. Notably, for the first time, this study demonstrated the feasibility of combining BCP scaffold with hOBs, hOCs, and HUVEC, which remained viable and maintained their native phenotypes, creating also tissue-like cell layer. Clinical significanceAlthough further investigation is needed, these results underscore the potential to develop a 3D in vitro model that mimics the oral microenvironment, which could be valuable for BTE approaches in in vivo studies.

Redox-Active Cerium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Mitigating Anthracene Contamination: Promising Solution to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Remediation in Stormwater-Affected Soils

Due to the pressing environmental issue of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in stormwater, top surface soil amendment by rare-earth-based nanoparticles was investigated as an effective remediation strategy. Here, the amendment of cerium dioxide (CeO2) nanoparticles (CeO2-NPs) into topsoil were studied to understand their role in mitigating anthracene contamination. Leveraging the redox activity of CeO2-NPs, this research demonstrates their capability to adsorb/degrade anthracene, thereby reducing its bioavailability and mobility within the soil. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analyses confirmed the homogeneous distribution of CeO2-NPs and revealed the altered chemical states of carbon, indicative of interaction with anthracene and the soil matrix. Further adsorption studies and soil column tests of four concentrations of anthracene (0, 5, 10, 15mg/L) revealed their adsorption onto CeO2-NPs. Further, size distribution, zeta potentials, and TEM images documented the efficiency of this strategy by over 60%. The role of soil organic matter in the presence of anthracene was further investigated to understand their reciprocal impact on the physiochemical properties of CeO2-NPs. We extended this analysis by incorporating genomics-based approaches, assessing alterations in community taxonomic structure and function through 16S rDNA profiling and heatmap of microbial diversity as affected by NPs or anthracene. This study enhances our understanding of nanotechnology's potential for environmental remediation of contaminated stormwater run-off.

Removal of tetracycline from aqueous solution via Fenton process using iron-impregnated bamboo biochar

Abstract Tetracycline (TC) is a pharmaceutical that has been used extensively that its presence in water sources causes detriment to both aquatic life and human health. TC is not completely removed in wastewater treatment processes and could enter the environment through effluent and sludge. This study evaluated the potential of iron-impregnated bamboo biochar (Fe-biochar) as catalyst in the removal of tetracycline from aqueous solution via Fenton process. Characterization via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses verified the successful iron impregnation on biochar. TC removal was determined at 357nm absorbance through UV-Visible spectroscopy. Highest TC removal of 63.24% was achieved under conditions of 75 mg Fe-biochar, 0.45 M H2O2, and pH 5. Experimental data were assessed using the three factors Box-Behnken response surface experimental design where Fe-biochar dosage, H2O2 concentration, and solution pH were found to be significant parameters in TC removal. Furthermore, it was determined that the data fitted well in a reduced-cubic model with high coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.9990) which indicates good regression. The optimum conditions were found to be 39.44 mg Fe-biochar dosage, 0.05 M H2O2, and pH 4, with TC removal efficiency of 33.90%. Overall, the results of this study suggested that Fe-impregnated bamboo biochar can be used as an effective catalyst in removing tetracycline from aqueous solution via heterogeneous Fenton process.

Hybrid magnetic nanocomposite NiFe2O4/TiO2 for Photocatalytic dye degradation and green hydrogen (H2) generation

The present paper focuses on designing and developing nanocomposites to modify their properties to increase the ability to generate hydrogen and degrade photocatalytic dyes. A nanocomposite of nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4)/Titanium dioxide (TiO2) was formulated using the sol-gel self-ignition method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) tool was adopted to analyze the structural behavior of pure nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4), pure titanium dioxide (TiO2), and nanocomposite of NiFe2O4/TiO2. XRD pattern of NiFe2O4 and TiO2 shows a monophasic nature whereas the XRD pattern of nanocomposites shows mixed phases of NiFe2O4 and TiO2. FTIR spectra confirm the formation of NiFe2O4, TiO2, and their composites with absorption bands near 400 cm-1 and 600 cm-1, 1500 cm-1. Raman spectra unveiled the presence of five active Raman modes in the case of NiFe2O4 whereas three active Raman modes are seen in TiO2. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images exposed the dense structure with spherical cluster-like morphology in the case of NiFe2O4. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis confirms the presence of all the desired elements of NiFe2O4, TiO2, and their composites in stoichiometric proportions. BET analysis of nickel ferrite NPs suggests a large surface area of the order of 31.54 m2/gm in comparison with TiO2 (19.23 m2/gm). The optical characterization was made through the UV-visible spectroscopic technique. TiO2 shows a maximum band gap of the order of 3.02 eV while NiFe2O4 shows a low band gap of the order of 1.74 eV. A typical M-H curve with saturation magnetization of the order of 27.54 emu/gm was observed for pure NiFe2O4. No magnetic properties were observed for TiO2 as it is a semiconductor. Enhancement in magnetic properties is observed with increases in NiFe2O4 content in a composite of NiFe2O4/TiO2. The photocatalytic activities were examined by degrading Methylene Blue (MB) dye under sunlight for pure nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4), pure titanium dioxide (TiO2), and a nanocomposite of NiFe2O4/TiO2. Photocatalytic hydrogen production reactions were carried out in a methanol/water solution under visible light. Consequently, the best configuration of the photocatalyst was determined as 25% wt% NiFe2O4/ TiO2 which had shown the maximum hydrogen (H2) production rate as 146.3 μmol/g/h after 8 h owing to its reduced bandgap energy and delayed e- / h+ recombination.

Utilization of Advanced Microscopy Techniques and Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy to Characterize Three Piper Species Related to Kava.

Macro- and microscopic techniques have long been used to describe plant materials and establish plant structural profiles. These techniques are commonly used in botanical authentication to identify the genuine and closely allied species used in botanical research. Advanced microscopic techniques were used in this study to differentiate three different Piper species used as kava or kava-kava. The genuine species is Piper methysticum and the other two species commonly called false-kava or kava-kava, are Piper auritum and Piper excelsum. Macroscopic characteristics, including a black-spotted stem and fibrous root, are characteristic of P. methysticum, whereas the stem of P. auritum is greenish with no spots, and the P. excelsum stem is purple-pink. Microscopic attributes include the characteristic collenchyma of stems and the pattern of arrangement of peripheral and medullary vascular bundles. The starch grains are smaller in P. excelsum than in the other two species. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis of the crystals indicates the expected calcium, magnesium, and silica, along with lesser amounts of sodium, and potassium. The crystals present in the Piper species vary in shape, size, and elemental composition. Combining macro- and microscopical techniques and resulting characteristics are instrumental in differentiating the three Piper species.

Chemical characterization of hibiscus rosa-sinensis plant fibers facilitated through design of experiments and artificial neural network hybrid approach

The integration of natural fibers into Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) has emerged as a promising avenue for sustainable and high-performance composite materials. Natural fibers, derived from plants, offer notable advantages such as renewability, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Among these natural fibers, Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis (HRS) plant fibers have gained significant attention owing to their widespread availability and unique mechanical properties. In this study, HRS fibers were chemically treated using Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), Potassium Permanganate (KMnO4), and Acetic Acid (CH3COOH) at different weight percentages (3, 4, 5 Wt.%) and solutionizing times (1, 2, 3 h) based on Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal array. The fibers, extracted from epidermis of the stems, underwent cleaning and chemical treatment after water retting. The crystallinity index, determined via X-ray Diffraction (XRD), indicated a maximum value of 65.77%. Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) exhibited a degradation temperature of 365.24 °C and a material loss of 63.11%. Potassium Permanganate treatment at 4 Wt.% and 3 h of solutionizing time has yielded the best results. Multi-Layer Perceptron Artificial Neural Network (MLP-ANN) has been successfully applied to accurately predict the output physical characteristics of chemically treated HRS fibers using experimental data. The results are in close alignment with the literature. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analyses have provided valuable insights into the microstructure and constituents of the chemically treated HRS fibers. This research emphasises on the effectiveness of the chemical treatment process in enhancing the properties of HRS plant fibers for potential composite applications.

Physical characterization of agar-based biodegradable films derived from nonhazardous laboratory waste

Globally, approximately 2.12 billion tons of waste are annually disposed of, with laboratories significantly contributing across diverse waste streams. Effective waste management strategies are crucial to mitigate environmental impact and promote sustainability within scientific communities. This study addresses the challenges by introducing a novel method that transforms laboratory media waste into a valuable biopolymer named “Agastic.” The process involves repurposing agar extracted from bulk laboratory waste, blending it with bio-based plasticizers to produce Agastic sheets exhibiting mechanical properties comparable to traditional bioplastics. Using response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD), optimal concentrations of agar (1.5–2.5% w/v), glycerol (0.25–1% v/v), and ethanolamine (0.5–1.5% v/v) were determined. Predictions from Design Expert software indicated impressive tensile strength up to 14.31 MPa for AGA-1 and elongation at break up to 52% for AGA-2. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed agarose structural features in AGA-1 and AGA-2. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed polysaccharide-related breakdown between 38°C and 280°C in AGA-1, peaking at 299.36°C; AGA-2 exhibited diverse thermal decomposition up to 765°C, suggesting their biodegradable potential in packaging applications. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis confirmed nontoxic nature of Agastic and preserved morphological integrity in both samples. Soil degradation studies revealed AGA-1 and AGA-2 losing 71.31% and 70.88% of weight, respectively, over 15 days. This innovation provides a sustainable pathway to repurpose laboratory waste into eco-friendly bioplastics, particularly suitable for moisture-sensitive packaging such as nursery applications. These findings underscore Agastic films’ promise as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastics, supporting circular bioeconomy principles and significantly reducing ecological impacts associated with plastic waste.

Impact of Gd doping on structural and magnetic characteristics of SrFeO3 perovskite nanomaterial

The SrFeO3nanoparticles doped with 5% and 10% Gd were synthesized using the solution combustion method. The phase formation of the synthesized nanoparticles was confirmed by powder x-ray diffraction analysis. Field emission scanning electron microscope and HRTEM were employed to examine the morphology of the samples, revealing well-ordered, agglomerated nanoparticles. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analysis was conducted on all samples, confirming the presence of the desired elements. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the presence of mixed oxidation states of Fe3+and Fe4+. Magnetization studies, performed using a SQUID magnetometer, showed ferromagnetic behaviour in all samples, with a significant increase in magnetic moment observed with higher Gd doping. The enhanced magnetic moments and reduced coercivity in Gd-doped SrFeO3suggest that these materials could be suitable for spintronic applications.

Hydroxyapatite synthesis and characterization from marine sources: A comparative study

BackgroundHydroxyapatite (HAP) is a biocompatible material widely used in biomedical applications. Recent studies have explored various marine sources for HAP synthesis, demonstrating its potential for diverse applications. ObjectiveThis study aims to compare the characteristics of hydroxyapatite synthesized from sea shells and fish bones, specifically from the shells of Scylla olivacea (orange mud crab) and bones of Eleutheronema tetradactylum (fourfinger threadfin). Materials & methodsHAP was synthesized from Scylla olivacea shells and Eleutheronema tetradactylum bones. The synthesized HAP underwent comprehensive characterization, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for structural analysis, hemocompatibility testing, antibacterial assays, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. ResultsSEM revealed a complex structure of HAP with a clustered arrangement and biofilm-like features. HAP derived from crab shells exhibited superior structural properties compared to that from fish bones. Both sources demonstrated good hemocompatibility, essential for biomedical applications. The antibacterial assays indicated effective antibacterial properties for both HAP sources, with crab shell-derived HAP showing slightly better performance. EDS analysis confirmed the presence of key elements necessary for HAP, with a consistent composition in both sources. ConclusionOur study concludes that hydroxyapatite derived from Scylla olivacea shells exhibits superior properties compared to that from Eleutheronema tetradactylum bones. This research establishes a precedent for future investigations into other marine species, thereby broadening the scope and potential of hydroxyapatite synthesis from natural sources.

Assessing the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of coconut coir composites with varying iron particle concentrations

This study investigates the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of Coconut Coir-based Porous Carbon (CCPC) composites with varying iron (Fe) particle concentrations, specifically focusing on four different weight ratios of CCPC/Fe-80, CCPC/Fe-60, CCPC/Fe-40, and CCPC/Fe-20. The novelty of this work lies in the use of sustainable coconut coir as a base material, emphasizing its eco-friendly and cost-effective attributes for Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. The significance of varying iron particle concentrations is highlighted to optimize electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. Comprehensive analyses were conducted on these composites. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the presence of crystalline Fe particles and amorphous carbon, with crystalline sizes determined via Williamson-Hall (W-H) plot, Scherrer Equation, and Strain Size Plot (SSP) ranging from 17.33 nm to 18.01 nm for the former. Raman spectroscopy revealed distinctive D and G bands, with intensity ratios indicating a slight increase in structural disorder with higher Fe content. UV-Visualization spectroscopy demonstrated distinct absorption peaks, with higher Fe content resulting in more pronounced absorbance and lower band gap energies. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analyses provided detailed insights into the material's microstructure and elemental composition, confirming the successful integration of Fe particles within the porous carbon matrix. Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) testing measured the reflection loss (RL), showing values in the range of −26.4 dB to −20.2 dB, for 2 mm thick samples, corresponding to electromagnetic wave attenuation of over 99%. These results underscore the potential of CCPC/Fe composites, particularly in applications requiring effective Electromagnetic (EM) wave attenuation. This research offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution, contributing significantly to the field of materials science by enhancing electromagnetic compatibility in various technological applications.

Optimization of Brilliant Blue R photocatalytic degradation by silver nanoparticles synthesized using Chlorella vulgaris

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using microalgae is gaining recognition for its environmentally friendly and cost-effective nature while maintaining high activity of NPs. In the present study, Ag NPs were synthesized using a methanolic extract of Chlorella vulgaris and subjected to calcination. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed a crystalline nature of the products with Ag2O and Ag phases with an average crystalline size of 16.07 nm before calcination and an Ag phase with 24.61 nm crystalline size after calcination. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the capping functional groups on Ag NPs, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed their irregular morphology and agglomeration after calcination. The organic coating was examined by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and thermogravimetric (TGA) analyses, confirming the involvement of the metabolites. The UV–Vis analysis showed a difference in optical properties due to calcination. Synthesized Ag NPs were applied for the photodegradation of hazardous dye Brilliant Blue R in visible light. Different values of light intensity, catalyst dose, initial dye concentration, and pH were tested to identify the optimal set of operating conditions. The highest degradation efficiency of 90.6% with an apparent rate constant of 0.04402 min−1 was achieved after 90 min of irradiation in the highest tested catalyst dosage.

Investigation of the spatial distribution of sodium in bread microstructure using X-ray, light and electron microscopy

The sodium consumption in many countries is too high, which results in increased risk for hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, stroke and premature death. Inhomogeneous sodium distribution using layering is a viable way to reduce sodium in bread that normally contains a lot of sodium. Prevention of sodium migration during production and storage is important for the function of this approach. Furthermore, the distribution of sodium between starch and gluten influences their properties. The spatial distribution of sodium was investigated at high resolution using combinations of X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM), scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM), light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and image analysis. Reference breads and layered bread samples were baked with one salt-free layer and one layer containing 3.6 wt% sodium chloride salt. The obtained results showed that the concentration of sodium is higher in the starch phase than in the gluten phase and that sodium migrates across the layer interface from the salt-containing to the salt-free layer. The ratios between the sodium concentration in the starch and gluten phases were dependent on the sodium concentration across the interfaces. Furthermore, magnesium and phosphor signals in bread yeast cells were observed using XFM.

Navigation through high-dimensional chemical space: discovery of Ba5Y13[SiO4]8O8.5 and Ba3Y2[Si2O7]2.

Two compounds were discovered in the well-studied BaO-Y2O3-SiO2 phase field. Two different experimental routines were used for the exploration of this system due to the differences of synthetic conditions and competition with a glass field. The first phase Ba5Y13[SiO4]8O8.5 was isolated through a combination of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis and diffraction techniques which guided the exploration. The second phase Ba3Y2[Si2O7]2 was located using iterative algorithmic identification of target compositions. The structure solution of the new compounds was aided by continuous rotation electron diffraction, and the structures were refined against combined synchrotron and neutron time-of-flight powder diffraction. Ba5Y13[SiO4]8O8.5 crystallizes in I4̄2m, a = 18.92732(1), c = 5.357307(6) Å and represents its own structure type which combines elements of structures of known silicates embedded in columns of interconnected yttrium-centred polyhedra characteristic of high-pressure phases. Ba3Y2[Si2O7]2 has P21 symmetry with a pseudo-tetragonal cell (a = 16.47640(4), b = 9.04150(5), c = 9.04114(7) Å, β = 90.0122(9)°) and is a direct superstructure of the Ca3BaBi[P2O7]2 structure. Despite the lower symmetry, the structure of Ba3Y2[Si2O7]2 retains disorder in both Ba/Y sites and disilicate network, thus presenting a superposition of possible locally-ordered fragments. Ba5Y13[SiO4]8O8.5 has low thermal conductivity of 1.04(5) W m-1 K-1 at room temperature. The two discovered phases provide a rich structural platform for further functional material design. The interplay of automated unknown phase composition identification with multiple diffraction methods offers acceleration of the time-consuming exploration of high-dimensional chemical spaces for new structures.

A Novel Method for the Enhancement of Sunflower Growth from Animal Bones and Chicken Feathers.

The present study aimed at converting meat industry waste, particularly waste bones and chicken feathers, into biochar to recycle valuable nutrients present in it, which ultimately become part of the municipal waste. The bone biochar (BB) and feathers biochar (FB) were prepared at 550 °C, and their potential was evaluated as an organic amendment for the growth of sunflower. The ash content (AC) and fixed carbon (FC) improved significantly in prepared biochars as compared to raw feedstock. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses signaled the occurrence of various functional groups viz. amide group and hydroxyapatite, porosity, and multiple nutrients. Application of BB and FB in potted soil alone as well as in composites (1:1, 1:2, 2:1) at 1%, 3%, and 5% (w/w) and synthetic fertilizer significantly increased soil pH, electrical conductivity (ECe), organic matter (OM) and water holding capacity (WHC), while reducing the bulk density (BD). The growth of plants grown in soil treated with a 2:1 composite of feathers and bone biochar at 5% application rate showed significantly greater differences in plant height, total chlorophyll content, and plant dry weight than the control but was comparable to growth with chemical fertilizer, rendering it a potential alternative to chemical-based synthetic fertilizer.

Effect of glass content on the phase assemblage and processing requirements of zirconolite glass-ceramics for actinide immobilisation

Zirconolite is a candidate wasteform for actinides (U/Pu/Th), and glass incorporation to form glass-ceramics provides flexibility to accommodate heterogeneous wastes while simplifying processing requirements; however, the glass content required to optimise these benefits remains unestablished. This systematic study investigated the effect of glass content on zirconolite crystallisation, phase assemblage, phase composition, cerium valence states and partitioning. Cerium-bearing zirconolite glass-ceramics were fabricated by targeting zirconolite (Ca0.8Ce0.2ZrTi1.6Al0.4O7; Ce as actinide surrogate) with varying amounts (0–100 vol%) of glass addition (NaAl1.5B0.5Ca0.7Ti0.2Si2O8.6). Differential scanning calorimetry data revealed that glass addition lowered the zirconolite crystallisation temperature (1283°C to 1200°C). X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses showed that glass addition lowered the temperature (1320°C to 1270°C) required to fabricate phase-pure zirconolite glass-ceramics and minimise CeO2/ZrO2 phases, with > 90 % of cerium preferentially partitioned into zirconolite. X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy data showed predominantly Ce4+ within zirconolite as targeted.

Effective move of Polypyrrole/TiO2 hybrid nanocomposites on removal of methylene blue dye by photocatalytic activity

Polypyrrole (PPy) was synthesized effectively by chemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole. Organic-inorganic hybrid materials PPy-TiO2 with different PPy weight percents were prepared by mechanical mixing, by using titanium oxide nanoparticles. The characterizations of PPy-TiO2 hybrid nanocomposites were analyzed by FTIR, UV–Vis, XRD, TGA & DSC and SEM & EDAX. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to distinguish the structure of the attained PPy-TiO2 hybrid nanocomposites. UV–vis techniques are proved the polymerization of pyrrole monomer and the strong interaction between PPy and TiO2 nanoparticles. Thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA-DSC) curves revealed that TiO2 can decrease the weight loss of nanocomposite and increase the thermal stability of synthesized nanocomposites. The residual mass of the pure Pyy-36.51 %, PPy-TiO2 (25 %)-64.82 %, PPy-TiO2 (50 %)-60.82 %, PPy-TiO2 (75 %)-70.50 % and pure TiO2- 96.69 % nanocomposites at the residual temperature 497.80 °C. The morphology and molecular structure of the hybrid nanocomposite were characterized by scanning electron microscope & Energy dispersive X-ray analysis spectroscopy (SEM & EDAX). These characterization results confirmed the polymerization of pyrrole and the strong interaction between PPy and TiO2. The material with outstanding absorption capability that meet in optical application is the challenging way, thus the photocatalytic analysis of PPy-TiO2 hybrid nanocomposites is merely a admissible results. It is notably the favorable degradation efficiency of pure PPy, the PPy+TiO2 (25 % 50 % & 75 %) nanocomposites are 82 %, 66 %, 67 % and 53 % respectively.

Effect of hydrogen on oxidative dissolution of epsilon particles-doped UO2 pellets under carbonate condition with hydrogen peroxide

The epsilon particles that result from nuclear fission of UO2 fuel possess both advantages and disadvantages from a spent nuclear fuel (SNF) management perspective. In this study, the effect of epsilon particles, namely Ru, Mo, and Pd, inherent in simulated UO2 pellets is examined. Various analytical methods have been used to explore the changes in the structural, surface, and electrochemical properties of which contain epsilon particles. A notable finding is that the epsilon particles are not evenly distributed and tend to clump together, transforming into a metallic state after sintering, as detailed in the X-ray diffraction analyses. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses highlight interesting aspects of the distribution of elements, especially the disappearance of Pd during sintering, which is likely due to its high vapor pressure. Although the lattice structure of UO2 remains unchanged, the sizes of the grains and pores visibly change, which may influence the tendency of UO2 pellet-cracking. Despite the addition of the epsilon particles, the electrical conductivity analyses show no significant changes, suggesting that they act as minor impurities without affecting the structural lattice. However, their possible role as catalysts in electrochemical reactions opens new and interesting areas that require thorough investigation. Moreover, examining the anodic dissolution under various conditions provides detailed insights into UO2 dissolution and oxidation, revealing how epsilon particles subtly influence the oxidative dissolution process. This study clarifies the basic interactions and effects of epsilon particles in UO2 pellets and broadens the path for a deeper understanding and improvement of nuclear fuel matrices and steering advancements in the safe and effective use of nuclear energy.

Biocompatibility and antimicrobial efficacy of silver-doped borosilicate bioactive glass for tissue engineering application

Borate bioactive glasses are an auspicious material for tissue engineering applications due to their enhanced dissolution rate, bioactivity, and capacity to integrate therapeutic ions. In this study, borate-based S49B4 bioactive glass doped with silver at mass fraction of 0.5, 1, and 3 wt% were studied for bioactivity, degradation, antibacterial, and cytocompatibility. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the bioactive glasses were thermally stable between 600 and 700 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction confirmed the successful synthesis of an amorphous phase of the doped borosilicate bioactive glasses and the incorporation of silver ion crystals within the structure, as well as associated contributions from borate and silicate network formers in the borosilicate bioactive glass. Morphological evaluation revealed that the borosilicate bioactive glasses exhibit a uniform and spherical shape across all formulations, with the mean particle size varying from 65 to 76 nm. An in-vitro acellular bioactivity in simulated body fluid medium showed that increasing the silver content increased the degradation rate and pH. Besides, scanning electron microscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed an upsurge in apatite production on the BBGs' surfaces as well as incremental Calcium-Phosphate ratio values of 1.50, 1.65 and 1.70 as the silver content increases. The antibacterial effect was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, while cytocompatibility was tested against human gingival epithelial cells. Silver integration at 1 wt percent yielded the most promising outcomes, which were particularly bactericidal at 79.8 % for Escherichia coli and 93.41 % for Staphylococcus aureus. Similarly, its Lactate Dehydrogenase percentage is significantly similar to the negative control employed in the study, indicating its biocompatibility. In contrast, 3 wt% silver exhibited the maximum bactericidal activity while also exhibiting mild cytotoxicity. In summary, our research indicates that elevated silver concentration enhances the bioactivity and antimicrobial characteristics of borosilicate bioactive glasses; nevertheless, a higher silver weight percent in this study also increases the possibility of cytotoxicity. It is therefore essential to carefully regulate the amount of silver doping at lower concentrations in order to maximize antibacterial action and minimize toxicity to human cells. The results presented here contribute to our understanding of the prospective use of silver doped borosilicate bioactive glasses as a possible material for tissue engineering applications.

Nafion/ZrO2 Modified NiTi Orthodontic Wire: Preparation, Material Characterization, and Corrosion Studies

Background: Nickel-titanium (NiTi) orthodontic wires are widely used in dental corrective procedures due to their high mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness. However, they are prone to oral corrosion, leading to mechanical deterioration, aesthetic issues, and potential health concerns. Objective: This study aims to improve the corrosion resistance and durability of NiTi orthodontic wires by employing zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) and Nafion coating with the goal of enhancing wire performance. Methods: Two types of NiTi wires were evaluated: a standard, unmodified wire as a control and another wire treated with electrodeposited ZrO2 film and Nafion (Naf) coating. Surface analysis was conducted using various techniques, including Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Results: The uncoated NiTi wire exhibited a corrosion rate of 4.436× 10-1 mm/year, whereas the Naf/ZrO2-coated NiTi wire showed a corrosion rate of 4.068× 10-1 mm/year, indicating that the Naf/ZrO2 coating acted as a protective layer. Additionally, the ZrO2 layer provided poor electrical conductivity, resulting in slightly higher impedance compared to bare NiTi. The coating served as a barrier, which significantly enhanced corrosion resistance and improved the wire lifespan. Conclusion: Electro-modification through ZrO2 deposition and Nafion coating significantly improved the corrosion resistance and overall durability of NiTi orthodontic wires, offering a promising advancement for their use in dental orthodontics. This study underscores the potential of ZrO2 and Nafion coating to enhance the corrosion resistance and longevity of NiTi orthodontic wires.

Preparation of hydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane and nano-SiO2 hydrophobic polyurethane coated urea and investigation of controlled nitrogen release

In the present study, we successfully developed hydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDHT) and nano-SiO2 hydrophobic polyurethane-coated urea by applying the optimal conditions for hydrophobic polyurethane preparation. The hydrophobic polyurethane membrane material undergoes a comprehensive characterization. Infrared analysis confirmed the successful grafting of PDHT onto the polyurethane membrane material. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analysis verify the even distribution of silicon on the surface of the membrane material. By Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) comparison, we elucidate the micro-structural disparity between the unmodified and modified castor oil-based polyurethane, accounting for the micro-level performance enhancement. The resulting modified membrane exhibited a water contact angle of 133.6°, indicative of its hydrophobic nature. The optimal ratios for PDHT and nano-SiO2 were determined to be 16 % and 2 %, respectively. Notably, hydrophobic polyurethane-coated urea demonstrated an extended-release period of 98 days (5 % coating amount), a 40 % improvement over its unmodified counterpart. In addition, the silicone-modified coated urea reduced the amount of ammonia volatilization by about 76.32 %, which plays a significant role in enhancing fertilizer utilization efficiency and is important for ecological environment protection. This research provides a straightforward and efficient way to fabricate slow-release fertilizers, with significant implications for the advancement of coated slow-release fertilizer technology.