Exchange Capability Research Articles

Iron-modified biochars and their aging reduce soil cadmium mobility and inhibit rice cadmium uptake by promoting soil iron redox cycling

Iron (Fe) modified biochar has been widely used for cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil remediation. However, the accompanying anions introduced during the modification process potentially affect the behavior of Cd in soil. In this study, we investigated the distinct Cd immobilization mechanisms by Fe2(SO4)3 modified biochar (FSBC) and Fe(NO3)3 modified biochar (FNBC) in a two-year pot experiment. Results showed that both FSBC and FNBC significantly reduced Cd concentrations in rice grains by 23%–42% and 30%–37% compared to pristine biochar (BC). Specifically, NFBC promoted the formation of amorphous Fe oxides by enhancing the NO3−-reducing Fe(II) oxidation process, which significantly increased Fe/Mn oxide-bound Cd and decreased soil CaCl2-extractable Cd. For FSBC, the introduction of SO42− significantly promoted the formation of Fe plaques by enhancing the Fe(III) reduction process, which blocked the Cd transfer from the soil to the rice roots. More importantly, after two years of biochar application, an organo-mineral complex layer is formed on the biochar surface, which immobilized a large amount of Cd. The Cd immobilization on the surface of aged biochar could be due to the fixation by the secondary Fe oxides within the organo-mineral layer and the complexation by the surface functional groups. The result of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry showed that the Cd content on aged FNBC and FSBC was 5.9 and 2.6 times higher than on aged BC. This might be attributed to the Fe-modified biochar's higher electron exchange capability (EEC), which promoted the development of organo-mineral complexes. Notably, the EEC of biochar was maintained during its aging process, which may keep the biochar surface active and facilitate continual Cd immobilization. This study revealed the complex mechanisms of soil Cd immobilization with Fe-modified biochar, providing new insights into sustainable biochar environmental remediation.

Li‐ion Exchange‐Driven Interfacial Buffer Layer for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries

AbstractThe goal of achieving batteries with high energy density and high safety profile has been a driving force in developing all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs). However, the complex issues arising from the interfacial interaction between lithium anode/cathode and solid‐state electrolytes (SSE) have hindered the progress of ASSLMBs. This study presents a strategy for constructing an organic/inorganic buffer layer via employing Li‐ion exchanging chemistry of H1.6Mn1.6O4 (HMO) with a flexible matrix of polyethylene oxide (PEO). The buffer layer shows a remarkable ion conductivity of 3.21 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 25 °C originating from the exceptional Li+‐H+ ion exchange capability of HMO. This PEO/HMO buffer layer not only establishes an intimate physical contact between the Li anode/cathode and the SSE but also functions as a dynamic Li+ transfer station to facilitate Li+ movement through the interfaces improving interfacial stability. By pairing with cathodes of LiFePO4 (LFP) and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811), the ASSLMBs feature high‐rate capability and stable cycling performance with low polarization. This marks the utilization of HMO as a superior interfacial material to replace conventional lithium salts, with improved ion transport, decreased polarization, and enhanced overall performances. This constitutes a significant advancement toward the next‐generation energy storage solutions for ASSLMBs.

Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents as Absorbing Solution and Preparation Solvent of Perovskite Nanocrystals Simultaneously for CH3I Gas Visual Sensing.

Methyl iodide (CH3I) gas as a toxic gas causes great harm to organisms due to its high volatility and high reactivity with biological nucleophiles. Unfortunately, the sensing and detection of CH3I gas are challenging because of the diffusive nature of the gases and its low concentrations in the environment. Herein, we have developed a fast, green, and sensitive CH3I gas visual sensing method based on the capture technology of toxic gases by natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) coupled to the halide rapid exchange capability of perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs). In this strategy, NADESs are used as an absorption solution to adsorb gaseous CH3I, while simultaneously exposing I- through the action of the nucleophilic reagent; then, CsPbBr3 PNCs were synthesized in NADESs and used as sensing material to achieve I- exchange. Benefiting from the capture and enrichment of CH3I gas, the sensitivity of the gas sensor was highly improved. The sensor exhibited the lowest detection limit (limits of detection) of 164.15 μmol/m3, below the minimum safe level for human inhalation, which is 200 μmol/m3. This breakthrough offers greater possibilities for the quantitative detection of CH3I gas.

Mechanism underlying anion-sieving in poly(ionic liquid)-based membrane: Effective acid recovery from engineering waste

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are promising for recovering acid from different engineering effluent due to their lower energy consumption, positive environmental impact, and potential for providing clean water resources. Utilizing the diffusion dialysis (DD) process, AEMs effectively retain metal ions while selectively allowing fast proton permeation. Achieving high hydrophilicity, proton conductivity, and ion exchange capacity through exact control of polymeric structure and chemical composition is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of the acid recovery process. This study presents the findings on the impact of novel Poly(ionic liquid) on cellulose acetate-based AEMs for acid recovery through DD application. In this study, interconnected nanochannel AEMs with high acid permeability are engineered using a straightforward blending technique. Poly(3-butyl-1-vinylimidazolium bromide-co-methyl methacrylate-co-styrene) (poly([BVIM]-[Br]–co–MMA-co-Styrene, PIL) is blended with cellulose acetate to achieve ionic crosslinking, resulting in a mechanically stable membrane. The dosage of PIL within the membrane matrix plays a vital role in determining the prepared membranes' physicochemical properties and ion exchange capabilities, which exhibit excellent thermal stability. Remarkably, the optimal AEM (7.5 % PILM) exhibits a high acid dialysis coefficient (UH+) of 1.05 m/h and a separation factor (S) of 802, outperforming previously reported state-of-the-art AEMs and commercial membranes. These findings indicate that the prepared AEMs are highly effective for acid recovery through DD. Notably, our work stands out by introducing new AEMs with superior acid dialysis performance and selectivity.

Dynamic ONU grouping algorithm based on combination partition for centralized flexible PON

The traditional optical access network architecture is fixed, and passive optical networking (PON) is only used as the transmission pipeline, which fails to make full use of the exchange capability of OLTs. In this paper, a dynamic optical network unit (ONU) grouping algorithm based on combination partition (DGACP) is proposed in the centralized flexible PON architecture. The algorithm transforms the global partitioning problem into a local partitioning problem, thereby reducing the number of algorithm iterations while obtaining the minimum cross-OLT traffic. Simulation results show that compared with the existing dynamic PON slice restructuring algorithm (DRA), the traffic gain of the DGACP is almost equal or slightly better, and the maximum running time is reduced from around 180 s to less than 0.5 s when the number of ONUs is 512.

Co-optimization and prediction of high-efficiency combustion and zero-carbon emission at part load in the hydrogen direct injection engine based on VVT, split injection and ANN

Hydrogen fuel holds great promise for accelerating the energy sector's decarbonization efforts. However, hydrogen's unique properties pose challenges for hydrogen direct injection (HDI) engines, such as differences in airflow exchange capabilities for very low density and reduced combustion rates due to lean burn conditions. This study investigates the impact of combined variable valve timing (VVT) and split injection strategies on HDI engine combustion, efficiency, and emissions. Using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models and experimental data, predictive models for Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions were developed. Adjusting intake and exhaust valve timings improved BTE by up to 2.5 % and 1.8 %, respectively, while reducing NOx emissions by 48.9 % and 31.1 % under specific conditions. Optimizing split injection alongside VVT further increased BTE by 1.2 % and 0.9 %, but increased NOx emissions by 29.9 % and 26.5 %. The flexible application of VVT and split injection strategies aims to balance efficiency gains with emissions control. The ANN-based models demonstrated high accuracy (R2 > 0.974), proving reliable substitutes for real-engine testing in certain conditions. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of VVT and split injection strategies to enhance HDI engine performance while mitigating environmental impact, supporting the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

The conversion of metal ions to metals particles contributes the photoaging of microplastics in aquatic environments

Metals ions enriched on the surface of Microplastics (MPs) may undergo redox reactions under UV irradiation to promote its photoaging. However, there is a paucity of information on studies of the aging behavior of MPs mediated by different metal ions. This study aims to investigate the effects of three different metal ions (Ag+, Cu2+ and Al3+) on the photoaging properties of polypropylene (PP) to enhance our comprehension of their aging in water contaminated by heavy metals. Physicochemical analyses, like the ratio of O/C and carbonyl index (CI), suggested that metal ions accelerated the aging of PP. The correlation model was established between CI and aging time to confirm that the aging sequence of PP in three metal ions solution was Ag+-PP>Cu2+-PP>Al3+-PP. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) results showed metal ions enhanced the generation of reactive oxygen species (•O2–, HO• and 1O2) to accelerate aging through free radical pathways. Electronic exchange capability (EEC) and X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed metal particles were on PP, leading to the e-bridge for electronic relays that altered the EEC of PP and accelerated its protonation process. It needs to note the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of metal nanoparticles may also accelerated the photoaging of MPs in UV–vis illumination. For the first time, the study establishes a connection between different valence states metal ion and PP aging, shedding light on interfacial and free radical aging process of MPs. The finding also proposes the potential e-bridge or SPR effect of metal particles may exist in accelerating photoaging reaction of PP in special water bodies contaminated with heavy metals. The environmental implications and ecological risks of this phenomenon warrant greater consideration.

Fabricating epoxy vitrimer with excellent mechanical and dynamic exchange properties via network topology design

Epoxy vitrimers are a novel type of environmentally friendly materials that possess exceptional properties, including self-healing, recyclability, and reprocessability. They offer a solution to the issue of traditional thermosetting epoxy resins, which are not recyclable. However, the incorporation of dynamic bonds typically results in a decrease in mechanical properties. Therefore, achieving a balance between the mechanical properties and dynamic exchange capability is crucial. In this work, a series of epoxy resin systems with various topological network characteristics were prepared by adjusting the proportions of bisphenol A epoxy resin (E51) and polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE) epoxy resins in combination with a curing agent containing vinylogous urethane (VU) dynamic bonds. Through further study, we found that with the increase of E51 content, the cross-linking density of the network gradually increased, and the flexibility of the macromolecular chains decreased (favorable for enhancing the material's mechanical performance). Simultaneously, the free volume of the network gradually increased, and the tightness of the macromolecular chains decreased (favorable for improving the material's dynamic exchange ability). These two effects combined to make E51-40 exhibit the lowest activation energy for dynamic covalent bond exchange and the lowest topological transition temperature. Compared to E51-0, the tensile strength and glass transition temperature of E51-40 were improved by 22.23 % and 25.30 %, respectively. After remoulding experiment at 140 °C for 1h, the material exhibited a high tensile strength recovery of 91.34 %. Therefore, starting from the design of molecular structure, adjusting the network topology is an effective means to balance the mechanical and dynamic exchange properties of epoxy vitrimers. This provides experimental guidance and theoretical insights for designing high-performance epoxy vitrimer materials.

Efficient hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane catalyzed by ultrafine Pt clusters confined in Ni–Ti layered double hydroxides with closo-dodecaborate

Ammonia borane (NH3BH3, AB) is a highly promising candidate for hydrogen storage. Nevertheless, there is an urgent need to develop an efficient and stable catalyst that can control hydrogen generation under mild conditions. The use of catalysts with numerous surface atoms anchored to a carrier to achieve a synergistic effect is an appealing approach in catalysis. In this work, a series of highly dispersed metal clusters NiTi-LDH@B12H12@M (M = Au, Pd, Pt, Ag) catalysts were successfully synthesized at room temperature by leveraging the reductivity of [closo-B12H12]2- immobilized in the layered double hydroxide (LDH) laminate, along with the spatial confinement and anion exchange capabilities of LDH. Specifically, utilizing the optimal catalyst NiTi-LDH@B12H12@Pt 2.4% (wt. Pt), the AB hydrolysis reaction exhibited extraordinary catalytic activity. It exhibited a first-order reaction rate with respect to Pt and a near zero-order reaction rate with respect to AB concentration. The AB hydrolysis can be achieved in a mere 29 s at 25 °C with a conversion rate of 100%. The corresponding turnover frequency (TOF) attains a value of 454.06 molH2molPtmin−1, and the apparent activation energy (Ea) is 41.8 kJ mol−1, surpassing numerous previously reported Pt-based catalysts. The outstanding catalytic performance can be ascribed to the uniform distribution of ultrafine Pt clusters, along with the synergistic effect conferred by NiTi-LDH and intercalated anions ([closo-B12H12]2-).

Anion exchanger1 (AE1/SLC4A1) function is impaired in red blood cells from prediabetic subjects: Potential benefits of finger lime (Citrus australasica, Faustrime cultivar) juice extract.

Prediabetes is a risk state that defines a high chance of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Oxidative stress mediated by hyperglycemia-induced production of reactive species could play a crucial role in this context. In the present study, we investigated whether the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 (SLC4A1), which is sensitive to oxidative stress, was altered in human red blood cells (RBCs) obtained from prediabetic volunteers. In addition, we assessed the precise composition of bioactive compounds and the potential benefits of finger lime juice extract (Citrus australasica, Faustrime cultivar) in counteracting oxidative stress-related functional alterations. Human RBCs from normal and prediabetic volunteers were incubated with 50 µg/mL juice extract for 2 h at 25°C. Juice extract restored alterations of the anion exchange capability mediated by AE1 and prevented the structural rearrangements of AE1 and α/β-spectrin in prediabetic RBCs. AE1 functional and structural alterations were not associated with an increase in lipid peroxidation or protein oxidation at the level of the plasma membrane. An increased production of intracellular ROS, which provoked the oxidation of hemoglobin to methemoglobin, both reverted by juice extract, was instead observed. Importantly, juice extract also induced a reduction in glycated hemoglobin levels in prediabetic RBCs. Finally, juice extract blunted the overactivation of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase and prevented glutathione depletion in prediabetic RBCs. These findings contribute to clarifying cellular and molecular mechanisms related to oxidative stress and glycation events that may influence RBC and systemic homeostasis in prediabetes, identify AE1 as a sensitive biomarker of RBC structural and function alterations in prediabetes and propose finger lime juice extract as a natural antioxidant for the treatment and/or prevention of the complications associated with the prediabetic condition.

The effects of aperture position and length in side-vented needles on root canal irrigation: A computational fluid dynamics study

IntroductionRoot canal irrigation is crucial for infection control during root canal treatment. Side-vented needles for positive pressure irrigation are commonly used in clinical practice. However, variations in needle design among manufacturers can impact the fluid dynamics of irrigation. This study aims to use computational fluid dynamics to explore the flow characteristics of different needle aperture lengths and positions, and their effects on the effectiveness and safety of irrigation, using a validated passive scalar transport numerical model. MethodsThe validation of the CFD irrigant model was achieved by comparing it with an in vitro irrigation experiment model. The CFD model used scalar concentration, while the in vitro experiment model used red dye tracing. Using a standard 30G side-vented needle as a reference, virtual needle models featuring four aperture lengths and three positions were created. These virtual irrigation needles were then placed in two root canal geometries for CFD simulation to evaluate fluid exchange capabilities and related fluid dynamic parameters. ResultsThe results of the CFD simulation, using a scalar transport model, closely matched the in vitro tracer tests for irrigation experiments across seven root canal geometries. The CFD analysis indicated that positioning the aperture lower increased the irrigant exchange distance. Notably, decreasing the aperture length to 0.25x, and positioning it at the lower end of the needle significantly increased exchange distance and shear stress, while reducing apical pressure. ConclusionsThese results indicate that the position and length of the aperture affect the exchange distance of irrigant flow, wall shear stress, and apical pressure. The CFD validation model for scalar transport, based on a steady state, can function as a valuable tool for optimizing the side-vented needle in research. Further research on the design of side-vented needles will enhance the understanding of flow characteristics beneficial for irrigation efficiency in clinical practice.

Internalization of nano- and micro-plastics in human erythrocytes leads to oxidative stress and estrogen receptor-mediated cellular responses

Plastic material versatility has resulted in a substantial increase in its use in several sectors of our everyday lives. Consequently, concern regarding human exposure to nano-plastics (NPs) and micro-plastics (MPs) has recently increased. It has been shown that plastic particles entering the bloodstream may adhere to the erythrocyte surface and exert adverse effects following erythrocyte aggregation and adhesion to blood vessels. Here, we explored the effects of polystyrene nano-plastics (PS-NPs) and micro-plastics (PS-MPs) on human erythrocytes. Cellular morphology, binding/internalization of PS-NPs and PS-MPs, oxidative stress parameters, as well as the distribution and anion exchange capability of band 3 (anion exchanger 1; SLC4A1) have been analyzed in human erythrocytes exposed to 1 μg/mL PS-NPs or PS-MPs for 3 and 24 h, respectively. The data obtained showed significant modifications of the cellular shape after exposure to PS-NPs or PS-MPs. In particular, a significantly increased number of acanthocytes, echinocytes and leptocytes were detected. However, the percentage of eryptotic cells (<1 %) was comparable to physiological conditions. Analytical cytology and confocal microscopy showed that PS-NPs and PS-MPs bound to the erythrocyte plasma membrane, co-localized with estrogen receptors (Erα/ERβ), and were internalized. An increased trafficking from the cytosol to the erythrocyte plasma membrane and abnormal distribution of ERs were also observed, consistent with ERα-mediated binding and internalization of PS-NPs. An increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT kinases indicated that an activation of the ER-modulated non-genomic pathway occurred following exposure to PS-NPs and PS-MPs. Interestingly, PS-NPs or PS-MPs caused a significant production of reactive oxygen species, resulting in an increased lipid peroxidation and protein sulfhydryl group oxidation. Oxidative stress was also associated with an altered band 3 ion transport activity and increased oxidized haemoglobin, which led to abnormal clustering of band 3 on the plasma membrane. Taken together, these findings identify cellular events following the internalization of PS-NPs or PS-MPs in human erythrocytes and contribute to elucidating potential oxidative stress-related harmful effects, which may affect erythrocyte and systemic homeostasis.

Enhancing submicron dust capture in high-temperature flue gases: A computational study on gradient pore-buried tube granular bed filters

Granular bed filters (GBF) represent a highly effective technology for purifying high-temperature dusty flue gases, although their efficiency in capturing submicron particles remains limited. A novel gradient porosity GBF model with varying bed structures and heat exchange capabilities was proposed. In this research, we employed CFD software to elucidate the movement and heat transfer process of 1 μm dust particles within gradient porosity GBFs and heat exchanger tubes. By optimizing the model under the conditions of a 0.5 m/s inlet flue gas flow rate and 1 μm dust particle size, we achieved a 345.62% increase in filtration efficiency and a 76.61% reduction in pressure drop. The findings indicate that the proposed GBF outperforms other models across various flue gas flow rates in terms of filtration efficiency. The impact of the flue gas flow rate on the combined filtration efficiency for submicron dust on the proposed GBF model was notably significant.

Confinement and interface engineering boosting the capacitive performance by constructing NiCo-LDH@CoSe core-shell structure for supercapacitor

The strategic design of heterostructures in multicomponent composites is a promising approach for enhancing the properties of energy storage materials. While NiCo layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) exhibits favorable ion exchange and redox capabilities, its nanostructure suffers from poor conductivity, leading to aggregation during charge and discharge cycles and compromising its electrochemical stability. This study presents the novel synthesis of NiCo-LDH@CoSe core-shell heterostructure using a two-step electrodeposition technique. The NiCo-LDH@CoSe heterojunction has remarkable electrochemical characteristics, boasting a high specific capacitance of 1965.4 F·g−1 at 1 A·g−1. It also exhibits an impressive rate performance of 74.4 % at 20 A·g−1, and retains 83.3 % of its capacitance after enduring 10,000 cycles at 30 A·g−1. The confinement and interface engineering of the heterojunction facilitate enhanced charge transfer from CoSe to NiCo-LDH, leading to exceptional performance and effectively addressing challenges such as poor conductivity, structural degradation, and nanoparticle clustering. The assembled NiCo-LDH@CoSe//AC hybrid supercapacitor also shows excellent performance. This research underscores the effectiveness of core-shell structure confinement and interface engineering in enhancing electrochemical performance.

Effect of soil conditioners based on geomimetic materials on plant growth in degraded soils: Poly(acrylic acid)/bentonite

Geomimetic materials (GEOMI) are composite materials based on polymer and clays, able to imitate structural and functional properties of soils, including their structure, cationic exchange capability (CEC), water uptake capability (WUC), pH buffering ability, immobilizing of substances, among other. Because they can be used to develop of fertilizer slow-release systems, they have been identified as a novel approach to advance toward a most sustainable agriculture. The aim of this work was to study the effect of GEOMI on the plant growth in degraded soils. For this, GEOMI-1.0 was synthesized using poly(acrylic acid) as model of humic substances and bentonite modified with trichlorovinylsilane as mineral fraction model. Materials were characterized by different techniques. GEOMI-1.0 showed a hybrid, homogeneous, and amorphous structure. In addition, it was thermally stable at below ⁓200 °C with a Tg about 49.3 °C, showed a high WUC (⁓1384 g of water per 100 g of material). Likewise, it was verified that GEOMI-1.0 can decreases the pH values and increases the CEC of degraded soils depending on the added amount of geomaterial; but also, the electric conductivity values showed no dependence on the added amount of GEOMI-1.0. By correlation analysis, an exponential dependence of CEC was observed respect to pH changes, the relative amount added of GEOMI-1.0 and the initial CEC. Finally, using Brachiaria Brizantha cv. Marandú as plant model, the increase in the biomass content of roots and leaves, and the number of germinated seeds, were observed when GEOMI-1.0 was used for restoration of in-lab degraded soils.

Experimental thermal performance intensification of gravitational water vortex heat exchanger using hexagonal boron nitride-water nanofluid

One of the main concerns presently is the rapid improvement of thermal technology for widespread heat exchanger applications involving energy conservation and intensification of heat transfer process. For the enhancement of heat exchange processes, nanofluids have been considered as a potential substitute for conventional fluids, which in general have subpar thermal characteristics. Therefore, the present study focusses on the heat transfer enhancement and the intensification of overall thermal performance of the developed gravitational water vortex heat exchanger (GWVHE). The experimental investigation first involves the preparation and characterization of water-based hexagonal-boron nitrides (h-BN) nanofluids as well as the computation of thermophysical properties of different volume fractions of h-BN nanofluids. Subsequently, a comparative analysis evaluating the thermal energy exchange capabilities of water-to-water and water-to-h-BN nanofluids combination of two fluids has been conducted to investigate the intensification in thermal performance of the developed GWVHE. The experimental investigation is primarily based on calculating the thermal energy balance, overall heat transfer coefficient, log-mean temperature difference (LMTD) and the effectiveness of the developed GWVHE using effectiveness-NTU method. The experimental results reported that 0.02 % volume fraction of water-based h-BN nanofluids is more suitable for further testing of the developed GWVHE to mitigate the stability concerns at higher concentrations. The minimal thermal losses, that lie within the 10 % confirms the thermal energy balance and by using the h-BN nanofluids −to-water strategy for two fluids. The maximum value of heat exchange rate significantly increased from 8490 W to 9998 W with the utilization of h-BN nanofluids-to-water as compared to water-to-water combination. Furthermore, the maximum values of LMTD employing h-BN nanofluids are found to be reduced from 21.15 K to 17.53 K compared to the water-to-water combination confirming the intensification in thermal performance of GWVHE. The overall heat transfer coefficient values are also found higher when h-BN nanofluids are substituted instead of water. The maximum value of overall heat transfer coefficient for h-BN nanofluids-to-water combination is improved from 874 W/m2K to 1142 W/m2K compared to water-to-water combination. Moreover, by utilizing the h-BN nanofluids-to-water combination, the values of effectiveness are intensified by an average of 13.5 % and 9 % in both sets of testing parameters, respectively. All these maximum improvement in findings for heat exchange, overall heat transfer coefficient, effectiveness, and reduction in LMTD values are obtained by maintaining the inlet mass flow rate of cold fluid at 0.142 kg/s, while the inlet mass flow rate of hot fluid was varied in the range from 0.092 kg/s to 0.133 kg/s. Additionally, the inlet temperatures of hot and cold fluids are kept at 330 K and 296 K, respectively. Hence, the utilization of h-BN nanofluids is proven to be highly effective for boosting thermal energy exchange and enhancing the overall thermal performance of the developed GWVHE.

A chromium-incorporated all-inorganic polyoxoniobate framework material: Good chemical stability and selective ion exchange capability

An all-inorganic three-dimensional (3D) polyoxoniobate (PONb) framework, Na6K4[(Nb6O19)CrIII(H2O)2]2·38H2O (1) has been synthesized via the hydrothermal method. The fundamental building unit of [(Nb6O19)CrIII(H2O)2]210− is connected by K+ ions, forming a 3D framework structure with channels along the b-axis. Compound 1 exhibits good thermal stability, and selectively absorbs Co2+ ions while excluding Ni2+ ions from acetonitrile solutions, PXRD analysis confirms that its framework remains intact after adsorption, indicating its potential as an effective ion-exchange material.

Removal of lead ions onto potassium-type fine-grained zeolite prepared from dry or wet milling treatment

Potassium-type zeolite (KZ) was prepared from coal fly ash by hydrothermal activation treatment using potassium hydroxide solution and potassium-type fine-grained zeolite was prepared by dry milling (KZ-D) or wet milling (KZ-W). The effects of the different treatments on the Pb2+ adsorption performance were assessed. KZ-W resulted in a much smaller particle diameter (0.61 ± 0.12 µm) than KZ-D (1.4 ± 0.48 µm) and KZ (6.5 ± 0.49 µm). KZ-W also realized a higher pore volume, mean pore diameter, and specific surface area, than KZ-D and KZ. Additionally, KZ-W realized a greater Pb2+ adsorption capacity (242.6 mg/g) than KZ (195.3 mg/g) or KZ-D (188.9 mg/g). The adsorption phenomena were fitted to the Freundlich and Langmuir models to clarify the Pb2+ adsorption mechanism, and then both models showed a good fit to the experimental data (the correlation coefficients of 0.914–0.996 for Freundlich model and 0.897–0.981 for Langmuir model). Additionally, the ion exchange capability, elemental distribution, and binding energy before and after adsorption were analyzed. The results indicated that the physicochemical characteristics of the tested adsorbent surface affected the Pb2+ adsorption capacity in the aqueous phase. According to kinetics, the pseudo-second-order model matched the experimental data (the correlation coefficients of 0.996–0.999). The samples also demonstrated selective adsorption of Pb2+ in a binary solution. The results demonstrated that KZ-W can effectively remove Pb2+ from the aqueous phase and that it may be a useful tool for preventing contamination of water bodies.

Effect of laser texturing and thermomechanical joining parameters on bond strength of steel-flax fiber reinforced vitrimer composites

The study examines laser texturing's impact on metal-composite hybrid joint mechanics formed via heat compression. It focuses on sustainable composite fabrication, utilizing flax fibers and a recyclable vitrimer resin known for dynamic covalent bond exchange capabilities, enhancing recyclability, repairability, and reshaping. Simulated heating conditions determined optimal bonding between the composite and laser-textured surfaces, considering the glass transition temperature for minimum temperature and time requirements. Deviations from initial heat pressing conditions (135 °C, 0.6 MPa, 5 min) reduced bonding strength, underscoring parameter sensitivity. Cross-tensional tests under varied laser texturing conditions, supported by microscopic examinations, revealed optimal strength (1680 N) with a 150 μm hatch distance and 9 repetitions, ensuring consistent ablation volume and time. Supplementary ANSYS simulations pinpointed stress concentration regions in cross-tensional joints, guiding adjustments in laser texturing within the region of interest to assess mechanical properties. The hybrid cross-tensional and lap shear joints were also reconnected after each fracture via heat compression, allowing for the evaluation of degradation in bonding strength over each cycle.

Social CRM Strategies: A Key Driver of Strategic Information Exchange Capabilities and Relationship Quality

This study aims to examine the influence of social customer relationship management (CRM) on relationship quality (RQ); the role of strategic information exchange capabilities (SIECs) as a mediator on the relationship between dimensions of social CRM and RQ was also investigated. A self-structured questionnaire survey was conducted on the subordinates working at various family-style restaurants in Egypt. Following a simple random sampling procedure, 466 valid responses were used for data analysis. The findings reveal that three dimensions of social CRM, namely customer service quality (CSQ), integrated marketing channels (IMCs), and online communities (OCs), have statistically significant effects on RQ. Moreover, SIECs mediate the relationship between CS/IMCs/OCs and RQ. The other two dimensions, rewards (RDs) and value-added services (VSs), do not directly or indirectly affect RQ. This study opens new avenues in the existing literature by identifying the most relevant factors affecting RQ in the context of Egyptian restaurants. This study can enable policymakers and restaurant owners to formulate social CRM strategies and achieve customer satisfaction properly. This study explores the mediation mechanism of SIECs on the relationship between dimensions of social CRM and RQ.