Environmental Applications Research Articles

Culturing 3D chitosan/gelatin/nano-hydroxyapatite and bone-derived scaffolds in a dynamic environment enhances osteochondral reconstruction.

Bioreactor can provide a dynamic culture environment for the in vitro construction of osteochondral tissue engineering. They facilitate more efficient exchange of nutrients and provide mechanical and other beneficial stimulation. Previous findings demonstrated that rotary flask (RF) bioreactor, rotary cell culture system (RCCS), or electromagnetic field (EMF) mediated scaffold culture could create a favorable dynamic environment for osteochondral tissue engineering. However, it is still unclear whether there is an optimal bioreactor or if bioreactors under multi-parameter coupling conditions are conducive to osteochondral tissue engineering. Based on this, the application of static T-flask (TF), RF, RCCS, and coupling environment of RCCS and EMF for osteochondral tissue engineering were systematically compared. The results showed that the RCCS/EMF culture system achieved the highest level of cellular proliferation and directed differentiation. Compared with the static culture group, the expression levels of chondrogenic factors of Sox9, Col II, and ACAN and osteogenic factors of Runx2, OCN, and Col I in RCCS/EMF culture system were 2.90±0.10, 3.53±0.05, 3.15±0.08, 7.16±0.15, 5.01±0.21 and 3.99±0.17 folds, respectively. The 'Active osteochondral' constructs (The construct is composed of chitosan/gelatin/nano-hydroxyapatite and bone-derived scaffolds) were prepared under different culture modes in vitro and implanted into the femoral condylar defect of New Zealand rabbits. After 12weeks, all culture modes could effectively promote the repair of osteochondral defects, in which the RCCS/EMF intervention had the best effect on the in vivo in-situ repair of osteochondral tissues. Furthermore, the fabricated cartilage and subchondral bone in the RCCS/EMF treatment group were most similar to the surrounding natural tissues, providing a new therapeutic idea for osteochondral tissue engineering.

Sustainable management of rice by-products: Environmental challenges, industrial applications, and circular bio-economy innovations

The agricultural sector plays an essential role in both human and economic growth, offering sustenance, employment, income, raw materials, technological progress, and sustainability. The growing awareness of the necessity to enhance agricultural production is gaining attention, primarily driven by the imperative to adequately nourish the continuously expanding global population. Diverse agricultural practices are causing harmful environmental consequences, posing a significant risk to ecological stability through issues such as soil degradation, water pollution, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline. Timely and effective agricultural waste management has become essential for preventing adverse environmental and health impacts. Biomass from rice crop harvesting and processing has been found in abundance around the world. Because of the abundance of this biomass in nature, researchers are harnessing it for various objectives, including global energy requirements, while supporting environmental sustainability. Due to this rationale, within the frameworks of emerging sustainable and circular models, the prioritization of agricultural waste valorization has gained prominence as a pivotal strategy aimed at advancing sustainable management and circular economy. This review mainly emphasizes on the rice bio-waste, its environmental and health-related issues, policies to control stubble burning, reduce pollution in the air, and sustainable management of the bio-waste into wealth using different approaches worldwide. We also investigated the potential contribution of rice-by-products wastes to bioenergy production (bioethanol, biogas, and biofuel), enzymes, nanoparticles, construction materials, animal husbandry, bioplastics, and other value-added products. We recommend that proper management of rice by-products may produce innovative bio-ingredients and biodegradable materials, and enhance green growth and a circular bioeconomy.

Synthesis and characterization of a copper-based metal–organic framework and its application in microextraction and determination of chlorpyrifos by ion mobility spectrometry

This study describes an innovative method for the microextraction and determination of chlorpyrifos, utilizing a newly synthesized copper-based metal–organic framework (MOF) with 3,3ʹ-thiodipropionic acid as the ligand. This approach offers a sensitive and reliable solution for the ultra-trace determination of chlorpyrifos in various matrices, highlighting its potential for broader environmental and food safety applications. To minimize environmental impact, a hydrothermal method was chosen for MOF synthesis. The MOF was fully characterized using FT-IR, X-ray diffraction, FESEM-EDX, BET, zeta potential analysis, and XPS; and integrated into a dispersive solid-phase microextraction (DSPME) technique, paired with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) for chlorpyrifos detection. The DSPME procedure has been optimized for extraction efficiency, minimal solvent use, and low absorbent consumption. A low detection limit of 0.65 ng mL−1 was observed and validated along with a linear detection range of 1.0–400.0 ng mL−1 as the result of this optimization. Experiments with water, pear fruit, and soil samples demonstrated the method’s practicality and superior performance compared to existing techniques, showcasing its potential for real-world applications.

Improving the Photocatalytic Performance of TiO2 Coating via the Dual Incorporation of MoO2 and V2O5 by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation

In this study, the photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ coatings on pure titanium was significantly enhanced through the dual incorporation of MoO₂ and V₂O₅ particles. This enhancement was achieved by performing a series of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatments in an alkaline-phosphate electrolyte, where Na₂MoO₄ and V₂O₅ nanoparticles were added either individually or in combination. The PEO process was carried out at a current density of 100 mA/cm² for 5 minutes. The results revealed notable changes in the surface morphology of the TiO₂ coatings, with increased porosity and pore size observed upon the addition of MoO₄ ions, while the incorporation of V₂O₅ nanoparticles led to a slight reduction in pore size. Interestingly, the simultaneous addition of both MoO₂ and V₂O₅ resulted in a porous structure with medium pore size and porosity, which proved optimal for photocatalytic applications. The compositional analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of MoO₂ and V₂O₅ into the TiO₂ matrix via electrochemical decomposition and electrophoresis mechanisms. Photocatalytic performance was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under visible light. The results demonstrated that the combined incorporation of MoO₂ and V₂O₅ significantly improved the degradation efficiency compared to TiO₂ coatings prepared without these additives. Notably, the TiO₂ coating with both additives achieved 99.9 % degradation of MB within 80 minutes, indicating enhanced charge separation and photocatalytic efficiency. This study highlights the potential of dual additive incorporation to improve the functional properties of TiO₂ coatings, making them suitable for advanced environmental and industrial applications.

Preparation of eco-friendly and high-strength ceramsite by granite scraps, granite fine mud, and phosphogypsum: Response surface methodology optimization, environmental safety assessment

Granite scraps (GS), Granite fine mud (GFM), and phosphogypsum (PG) are solid wastes containing harmful substances produced during the processing of granite and the production of phosphate fertilizer. Their resourceful and harmless utilization holds great significance in reducing environmental pollution. This study explores the preparation of eco-friendly and high-strength ceramsite using GS as the primary material, GFM as the binder, and PG as the regulator. The performance of ceramsite was studied by conducting single-factor experiments to examine the impact of the GS, GFM, and PG mass ratios. The Box-Behnken response surface methodology was utilized to optimize the effect of sintering conditions on the strength of ceramsite. The results suggested that the properties of the ceramsite are affected by the material ratios. The sintering temperature and keeping time notably influence the strength of ceramsite. Under optimal preparation conditions, the ceramsite achieved a bulk density of 1085.40kg/m3, apparent density of 2253.63kg/m3, 1-h water absorption of 0.13%, hydrochloric acid soluble rate of 0.016%, and compressive strength of 34.52MPa. Importantly, high-temperature sintering plays an essential role in fixing heavy metals and reducing the ecological risk level of heavy metals in ceramsite, which ensures excellent environmental performance and application prospects for ceramsite.

Sustainable stabilization/solidification of Cu-contaminated seasonal frozen soil by epoxy resin: environmental risk assessment and engineering applicability

There are significantly toxic Cu contaminants in seasonal frozen soil areas under industrial production and mineral exploitation. However, the hydration reactions of mainstream alkaline curing agents such as cement are disturbed by the solidification and thawing of moisture, and their solidification/stabilization is ineffective to heavy metals. Therefore, there is an urgent requirement to optimize the use of current curing agents to improve the solidification/stabilization (S/S) effect of Cu contaminants in seasonal frozen soil areas. In this study, the Epoxy resin (EP) with excellent waterproofing and frost resistance was incorporated into artificially prepared Cu-contaminated soil to maintain a steady engineering application strength and inhibit the outward diffusion of toxic Cu contaminants under freeze-thaw cycles. The freeze-thaw resistance of EP-cured Cu-contaminated soil and the feasibility of EP remediation technology have been investigated, including mechanical properties, environmental effects and microstructure. The decline in mechanical strength and the increment in Cu leaching during freeze-thaw cycles are effectively suppressed by the remediation of EP. Even after 8 freeze-thaw cycles, there is merely a mechanical strength decline of 5%, solely a secondary Cu leaching of 4.74mg/L, and astonishingly a leachable index of 11.70 in the specimens with 12% EP dosage. The expansion phenomenon of pores and clay fractures under freeze-thaw cycles were gradually alleviated after incorporation of EP. The above results demonstrate the Cu-contaminated seasonal frozen soil remedied by EP are high-strength, basically non-toxic, and environmentally friendly material which are suitable for in-situ stabilization/solidification in seasonal frozen soil areas.

Enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial performance of CeO2-loaded carboxymethyl chitosan nanocomposites.

Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCs) was loaded with two different concentrations of cerium dioxide (CeO2), specifically 0.3 g and 0.6 g, and compared with pure CMCs. XRD and FTIR analyses were used to evaluate the structural characteristics. The nanocomposites were examined for their photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) dye and antibacterial capabilities. Various parameters, including catalyst concentration, dye concentration, and pH levels, were assessed to determine the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of MB dye. The results demonstrated that the 0.6CeO2/CMCs nanocomposite outperformed the 0.3CeO2/CMCs and pure CMCs in terms of photocatalytic performance, achieving complete degradation of MB dye within 210 and 240 min after treatment with 0.3CeO2/CMCs and 0.6CeO2/CMCs nanocomposites. The agar well diffusion test was employed to assess the antibacterial activity of the nanocomposites against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The 0.6CeO2/CMCs nanocomposite exhibited the highest antibacterial effectiveness, with zones of inhibition measuring 29 ± 0.63 mm for E. coli, 28 ± 0.18 mm for P. aeruginosa, 25.5 ± 0.25 mm for S. aureus, and 23.6 ± 0.51 mm for E. faecalis. Additionally, the durability and reusability of the nanocomposites were confirmed after undergoing 5 cycles of MB dye degradation, with only a slight decrease in efficiency. The findings of this study highlight the potential of CeO₂/CMCs nanocomposites as powerful antibacterial and photocatalysts with important implications for environmental and biological applications.

Synthesis of New Films From SiO2–SrTiO3-Nanoparticles-Doped Polystyrene for Environmental and Biomedical Applications

Synthesis of New Films From SiO2–SrTiO3-Nanoparticles-Doped Polystyrene for Environmental and Biomedical Applications

Exploiting the Synergistic Effect of β-Cyclodextrin Functionalized-Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Zn-MOF for the Detection of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical methylparaben

The buildup of methylparaben (MP), a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative with endocrine-disrupting properties, in aquatic systems has become a significant concern due to its adverse health effects. Hence, introducing inexpensive and easy-to-use monitoring devices for quantifying MP is highly desirable. Thus, Zn-BTC metal-organic framework (MOF) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) functionalized with β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) were utilized to modify the matrix of a carbon paste electrode (CPE). The morphological and electrochemical characteristics of β-CD-MWCNTs/Zn-BTC/CPE were evaluated using conventional material characterization techniques and electroanalytical methods. The sensor exhibited two linear current responses in concentration ranges of 0.01 mM to 0.3 mM and 0.3 mM to 6 mM. The limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 3.8 μM. The device demonstrated excellent selectivity, repeatability, reproducibility, and stability over two weeks. Evaluating its applicability in real samples achieved recoveries in the range of 96.25% to 105%, proving its reliability in environmental and industrial applications.

Construction of a N-CDs/AuNCs@ZIF-8-assisted ratiometric fluorescent nanosensor for glyphosate detection in edible and medicinal malt

Glyphosate (Gly) is a widely-used herbicide in food production, while, the residue of which due to the long-term and excessive overspray poses serious threats to public health. The development of reliable methods for its sensitive detection is of great urgency. In this study, a novel ratiometric fluorescent nanosensor by encapsulating N-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) and gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) in zeolitic imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) as the dual-emissive fluorescence probes at 410 and 650 nm, respectively, was constructed for Gly detection. Due to the adsorption property of ZIF-8, the N-CDs/AuNCs@ZIF-8 nanoprobes accumulated Cu2+ to quench the red fluorescence of AuNCs, and the blue fluorescence of N-CDs was stable. While thiocholine, a product of acetylthiocholine, hydrolyzed by acetylcholinesterase could coordinate with Cu2+, resulting in significant fluorescence recovery of AuNCs. This phenomenon was utilized for the quantitation of Gly, due to its inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase activity. By calculating the fluorescence intensity ratio (I650/I410), Gly in real sample could be accurately determined in a concentration range of 2–100 ng/mL with a limit of detection of 1.92 ng/mL because of the anti-interference and the self-correction ability of the two fluorescence signals. The N-CDs/AuNCs@ZIF-8 nanoprobes-assisted ratiometric fluorescent nanosensor exhibited unique merits of rapid construction, simple operation, high specificity, and good accuracy for Gly in edible and medicinal malt samples with recoveries of 93.7–108.2 %. This study presents a multiple tool for the versatile sensing of trace pesticides in more food matrices, which can be extended to a full range of environmental and food safety applications.

Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor with 2D Materials for Enhanced Refractive Index Detection of Chemical Pollutants in Seawater

This paper introduces a highly sensitive, graphene-based, multilayer surface plasmon resonance (SPR) refractive index sensor is designed for the detection of chemical pollutants in seawater. The sensor structure consists of multiple layers, specifically BK7 glass, Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), MXene, and Graphene. SPR sensors have gained significant attention in the field of real-time chemical sensing due to their label-free detection capabilities, high sensitivity, and excellent reproducibility. In this sensor design, the refractive index (RI) of the sensing region is altered by the interaction of chemical pollutants present in the seawater. These variations in RI directly affect the excitation of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at the multilayer sensor interface. This interaction forms the basis for detecting chemical pollutants, as changes in RI modulate the sensor's optical response, which can be accurately measured. The performance of the proposed sensor is thoroughly evaluated using numerical simulations based on the Transfer Matrix Method (TMM). The simulations are carried out over a refractive index range of 1.329 to 1.433, covering the typical RI variations caused by chemical pollutants in seawater. The sensor demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving a maximum sensitivity of 186deg/RIU at an operational wavelength of 633nm. Additionally, the sensor is exhibited a high detection accuracy (DA) of 1.5deg⁻¹ and a figure of merit (FOM) of 205 RIU⁻¹, highlighting its ability to precisely distinguish small changes in refractive index. These results emphasize the potential of this graphene-based SPR sensor configuration for high-performance detection of chemical pollutants, making it an excellent candidate for environmental monitoring applications. Its robust design, combined with its high sensitivity and accuracy, positions it as a promising solution for addressing challenges in seawater pollution detection and monitoring.

Review of cloud computing models in education and the unmet needs

<p>This article thoroughly examines recently proposed cloud computing (CC) models used within the higher educational institutions (HEI) field, scrutinizing their objectives, structures, and incorporated requirements. Each model's unique architecture and functionality are analyzed to understand their potential educational contributions. Beyond technical considerations, the study explores nuanced requirements essential for successful integration in educational settings. The review exposes diverse aims pursued by the models, such as enhanced scalability, collaborative learning, and resource management, emphasizing their capacity to reshape traditional educational paradigms. However, a notable gap emerges-the absence of cultural and requirement elicitation models within the frameworks. Despite growing cultural diversity and varied educational needs, most models lack components addressing cultural nuances and robust requirement elicitation. In conclusion, the paper identifies a pressing need for a transformative shift in developing CC models for education. The absence of dedicated cultural and requirement elicitation models challenges the holistic effectiveness of these frameworks. Future efforts should prioritize integrating culturally sensitive components and comprehensive requirement elicitation strategies to create adaptive, universally applicable, and inclusive CC educational environments. Addressing these gaps will pave the way for a nuanced and responsive integration of CC technologies in diverse educational settings.</p>

Lead-Free Halide Double Perovskites for Sustainable Environmental Applications

The development of renewable energy sources has become a crucial objective in today's world due to increasing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels. Solar energy has emerged as a promising alternative. In recent years, there has been a significant focus on perovskite solar cells due to their remarkable power conversion efficiencies and their ability to be produced in a cost-effective manner. These cells have attracted considerable attention from researchers and industry professionals alike. However, traditional perovskite materials often contain toxic lead, raising concerns about their environmental impact and long-term sustainability. This article highlights the environmental concerns associated with lead-based perovskite materials and explores the advantages, challenges, and potential of lead-free halide double perovskites as sustainable alternatives for achieving an enlightening and sustainable future in the field of photovoltaics. Lead-free halide perovskites have been an area of active research in the field of nanotechnology and material science due to their potential for various applications. We provide an overview of perovskite solar cells as a promising technology, discussing their material properties and device performance. Furthermore, we present a comparative analysis between lead-based and lead-free perovskites, emphasizing the challenges and future perspectives associated with the development and implementation of lead-free alternatives. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the potential of lead-free halide double perovskites and inspire further research in the quest for environmentally friendly materials for solar energy applications.

Synthesis and High-pressure Properties of (Nd0.2Li0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 High-entropy Perovskite

The recent development of high-entropy perovskites has demonstrated their tremendous promise for various applications. To meet the expanding needs for extreme environment applications, however, the critical properties of high-entropy perovskite at high pressure remain to be disclosed. In the present work, an A-site high-entropy perovskite (Nd0.2Li0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 was synthesized. High-pressure investment on the phase stability, dielectric properties, and bandgap was conducted using diamond anvil cell combined with comprehensive in-situ measurements. The results reveal that (Nd0.2Li0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 remains the perovskite structure at the pressure up to ~15GPa. The grain resistance exhibits an exponential decrease with the increasing pressure, whilst an unusual change of the grain boundary resistance was observed at ~7GPa. Furthermore, (Nd0.2Li0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 shows a slight increase of the bandgap upon compression. Our multifaceted approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the high-pressure behavior of high-entropy perovskite, offering valuable insights for the design and optimization of advanced functional materials for high-pressure environments.

Innovative synthesis and practical application of graphitic carbon nitride/α-zirconium phosphate in visible light-activated Knoevenagel condensation

To advance the development of efficient photocatalysts activated by visible light for environmental applications. We employed a simple approach to synthesize g-C3N4/α-ZrP composite in different mass ratios, followed by comprehensive characterization through several techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and UV–Visible diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS). Furthermore, the g-C3N4/α-ZrP with mass ratio 6:1 was demonstrated high performance catalytic activity in Knoevenagel condensation (Yield 88 %–96 %) in a short reaction time (5–20 min) under visible light irradiation. The use of g-C3N4/α-ZrP has transformed the traditional synthesis of carbon–carbon double bonds, offering improved reaction rates and reduced by-products. These next-generation photocatalysts also exhibit remarkable properties that facilitate the activation of substrates under milder conditions, opening up new possibilities for green and sustainable synthesis. This advancement contributes to the development of environmentally friendly and efficient synthetic methodologies.

Fabrication of nanocellulose-based high-mechanical and super-hydrophobic xerogels for speedy oil absorbents

Cellulose-based porous materials are promising for various fields and preferred for sustainable development. However, the low mechanical properties and high hydrophilicity of cellulose-based xerogels had a direct influence on their application in oil absorption. To address the challenge, an environmentally friendly and economical method for synthesizing MTMS/C0.2-TOCN0.9 xerogels with high hydrophobicity and excellent mechanical strength was successfully established. In this work, shape-recoverable using nanocellulose (TOCN)-based xerogels with porous structure (porosity of 91.5–98.7 %), as well as excellent hydrophobic properties were prepared by TOCN-stabilized wet foams with physical crosslinking, ice crystal-induced phase separation and MTMS modification through simple air-drying instead of the traditional freeze-drying. At the optimized ingredients of TOCN and crosslinker (Ca2+), the xerogel (MTMS/C0.2-TOCN0.9) exhibited superior compressive performance (approximately 35 KPa) and exceptional structural stability after 50 cycles at a compression deflection of 60 %, which was still maintained at 71.5 % of the original stress. Moreover, the MTMS/C0.2-TOCN0.9 xerogel achieved stable superhydrophobicity (128.3°) and excellent oil absorption capacity (59.6 g/g), rendering it a desirable adsorbent for oil spill cleaning. Compared to the pseudo-first-order model, the pseudo-secondary model had higher validity in oil absorption kinetic theories. The MTMS/C0.2-TOCN0.9 xerogel was recyclable and nontoxic, which has the potential to promote environmental applications.

Light harvesting S-scheme g-C3N4/TiO2/M photocatalysts for efficient removal of hazardous moxifloxacin

The development of advanced photocatalysts with enhanced efficiency for environmental remediation is critical for addressing persistent organic pollutants like Moxifloxacin. In this study, we present a novel S-scheme heterojunction g-C3N4/TiO2/M photocatalyst designed to optimize light harvesting and charge separation for the effective degradation of Moxifloxacin. The innovative S-scheme configuration enables superior charge transfer dynamics by retaining potent photogenerated electrons in the conduction band of TiO2 and holes in the valence band of g-C3N4, significantly improving photocatalytic performance compared to conventional Type-II systems. Heterogeneous photocatalysis, particularly using TiO2-based materials, offers a promising approach. Here, we synthesized TiO2 hybridized with metal-doped g-C3N4 (GCNTM) via a simple hydrothermal method. The fabricated nanocomposites were characterized using SEM, XRD, FTIR, and UV–Vis (DRS). These GCNTM nanocomposites were employed for the degradation of hazardous Moxifloxacin (MXF) under visible light. Detailed analysis of the photocatalytic mechanism reveals that the synergistic interaction between g-C3N4, TiO2, and the co-catalyst M not only broadens the light absorption spectrum but also enhances the separation and lifespan of charge carriers. Among the synthesized materials, GCNTLa demonstrated the highest degradation efficiency, achieving 96 % removal of MXF. This enhanced activity is attributed to the effective suppression of charge recombination, leading to the generation of reactive species responsible for MXF degradation. Additionally, GCNTM showed remarkable stability and reusability, with only a 6 % reduction in efficiency after five cycles, confirming its high reusability and mechanical stability. Our S-scheme photocatalyst demonstrates a marked increase in the degradation rate of Moxifloxacin under visible light irradiation, highlighting its potential for practical environmental applications.

Evaluation of galvanic corrosion in mild steel, 309S and 409M alloy combinations for marine environment applications

Abstract The objective of this study is to simulate galvanic corrosion in 409M, 309S (weld filler)-& MS joints couples during in light of field applications and to compare with the corrosion rates of the individual grades. Metals undergo corrosion when exposed to outdoor environments. But the rate of corrosion gets accelerated when the metals are connected to form a galvanic couple and are exposed to marine environments. One such galvanic system being used in coastal aggressive environments like marine applications can be combinations of Mild steel (MS)- 409M (Ferritic Stainless Steel) system welded using& 309S (Austenitic Stainless Steel) filler. The electrochemical tests which include measurement of voltage/current w.r.t time, cyclic potentiodynamic polarization studies and electrochemical impedance measurements using 5% NaCl solution were designed in order to assess how these alloys behave (i) individually and (ii) in galvanically-coupled states. Visual observations, determination of corrosion rates, microstructural inspections and Scanning Electro Microscopy (SEM) analysis were carried out as a part of corrosion evaluation method. The results indicated that the galvanic coupling of dissimilar metals significantly accelerates the corrosion rate of the less noble metal, particularly in the MS-309S couple where the difference in their corrosion potentials between the two alloys is as high as 450 mV. The corrosion rate of MS coupled with 309S increased to 0.277 mm/yr, which is approximately 6.9 times more compared to the MS-MS couple. From the above study, it was found that the MS samples experienced higher corrosion rates when coupled with 309S, followed by MS in MS-409M system. The comparison was done with respect to MS-MS system. The test data shall be used to compare the relative corrosion resistances of (i) MS - MS (ii) MS - 409M (iii) 409M – 409M (iv) 309S - 409M (v) 309S - MS and (vi) 309S – 309S. This is required to understand the relative corrosion resistances of alloys during field application and to arrive at a suitable solution for maximizing its service life.

Enhancing efficiency and sustainability in water reuse through microfluidic electrochemical reactors: a mini review

In view of the increasing scarcity of water resources and the imperative to develop processes with minimal environmental impact, there is a pressing need to focus on the design of water treatment methods characterized by reduced energy consumption and heightened process efficiency. In this vein, the present short review aims to provide a critical assessment of electrochemical technologies for environmental applications, with particular emphasis on reactor configuration's role in the elimination of persistent organic pollutants and the effectiveness of disinfection systems. To underscore the search for processes aligned with sustainability objectives, specific attention has been directed towards comparing conventional configurations with microfluidic devices. Conventional configurations prove effective for the objectives described in this review, achieving removals exceeding 90% of a wide range of persistent contaminants and reductions greater than 6-log for fecal coliforms, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, helminth eggs, among others. Compared to traditional configurations, microfluidic designs have demonstrated notable advantages, including reduced energy consumption (3- to 20-fold), and heightened mass transfer rates. Specifically, designs that combine a micrometric interelectrode distance with a flow-through configuration or vigorous mixing (electromixing configuration) exhibit high potential for the development of more efficient electrochemical systems compared to conventional devices. In light of the superior performance exhibited by these electrochemical devices, it is evident that continued research in the realm of environmental electrochemistry is paramount for fostering sustainability in the coming years, particularly in alignment with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (especially SDG 6).

Robust Carbon Nanotube Composite Coatings for Perfect Absorption in Harsh Environmental Applications

Robust Carbon Nanotube Composite Coatings for Perfect Absorption in Harsh Environmental Applications