Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis Research Articles

Phytochemical screening, FTIR and GCMS analysis of Cucurbita pepo seeds cultivated in Kiambu county, Kenya

Bioactive compounds and other constituents of plants have been shown to vary by cultivation region, species, environmental conditions and method of extraction among others. Phytochemical analysis of Cucurbita pepos farmed in Kiambu County, Kenya, or their seeds has not been documented. The present research aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by screening phytochemicals and characterizing the seed extracts of Cucurbita pepo cultivated in Kiambu County, Kenya. Cucurbita pepo seeds extracted using organic solvent extraction method employing methanol and preconcentrated in a vacuum rotatory evaporator. The extracts were characterized by GCMS and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. Phytochemical analysis of the seeds revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, and steroids. FT-IR analysis showed significant peaks for C–N, N–H, C–O, C–H, and CH3 functional groups. The GCMS studies revealed a significant number of fatty acids and their derivatives with 12-cis-octadecadienoate being the most abundant in the oil (53.93 %). A significant amount of the macrocyclic lactone 7,9-ditert-butyl-1-oxaspiro [4.5] deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione (0.58 %) in the seeds was reported. Macrocyclic lactones are generally a class of anthelminthic drugs. These reported biologically active compounds have a wide range of medicinal and nutritional value. One interesting compound from the GCMS analysis of the seed extracts analyzed was the macrocyclic lactone providing a basis for further research on the anthelminthic actions of the seeds.

An Assessment of the In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Cobalt Nanoparticles Synthesized From Millettia pinnata, Butea monosperma, and Madhuca indica Extracts: A Comparative Study.

Objective This study aimed to synthesize cobalt nanoparticles (CoNPs) via the green synthesis method using Millettia pinnata(M. pinnata), leaf (MPL), Butea monosperma(B. monosperma)flower (BMF), and Madhuca indica(M. indica)flower (MIF) as eco-friendly reducing agents. It further aimed to compare the effectiveness of these plant extracts in CoNPs production and evaluate the antioxidant activities of the synthesized nanoparticles (NPs), establishing a link between the phytochemical constituents of the extracts and the antioxidant capacity of CoNPs for potential applications in drug development and environmental sustainability. Materials and methods CoNPs were synthesized using aqueous extracts of MPL, BMF, and MIF. These extracts act as stabilizing and self-reducing agents. Initially, the presence of CoNPs was detected visually by observing a color change. To confirm this observation, UV-visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were employed. UV-visible spectroscopy helps in analyzing the absorption of light by the CoNPs, while FTIR spectroscopy is used to identify the functional groups present in the NPs. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity of the synthesized CoNPs was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging assay. This assay measures the ability of antioxidants to neutralize free radicals by determining the reduction in the DPPH radical's absorption. To ensure the reliability of the results, the experiments were conducted in triplicate. Statistical analysis was then performedto compare the antioxidant effectiveness of the different plant extracts used in synthesizing the CoNPs. This analysis helps in determining any significant differences in antioxidant activity among the extracts. Results UV-visible spectral analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of CoNPs, revealing characteristic absorption peaks. For M. pinnata leaf extract (MPLE), the maximum peak was observed at ~272 nm, while B. monosperma flower extract (BMFE) exhibited a peak at ~276 nm, and M. indica flower extract (MIFE) revealed a maximum peak at ~320 nm. FTIR analysis further validated the presence of organic molecules from plant components on the outer layer of CoNPs, indicating successful capping and stabilization by phytochemicals from the extracts. The spectra displayed various peaks at different wavenumbers: MPLE showed prominent peaks at 3335 cm-1, BMFE showed distinct peaks at 3314 cm-1, and MIFE exhibited significant peaks at 3261 cm-1. Among the three types of CoNPs tested, those synthesized using MIFEexhibited the highest inhibition of 87.67% at a concentration of 60 µL. This higher inhibition was compared to those synthesized using BMFEand MPLE. This study suggests that the CoNPs synthesized on MIFEcan serve as an antioxidant agent because of their remarkable free radical-scavenging activity. Conclusions The study highlights the potential of CoNPs synthesized using MIFE as they exhibited superior antioxidant activity compared to those synthesized with BMFE and MPLE. Therefore, the study underscoresthe promise of MIFE as a valuable natural resource for producing CoNPs abundant in antioxidants. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of implementing environmentallyfriendly synthesis techniques to produce nanomaterials that are both safe for the environment and biologically effective.

Effect of wood and peanut shell hydrochars on the desiccation cracking characteristics of clayey soils

Soil cracking can significantly alter the water and nutrient migration pathways in the soil, influencing plant growth and development. While biochar usage has effectively addressed soil cracking, the feasibility of using less energy-intensive hydrochars in desiccating soils remains unexplored. This study investigates the impact of wood and peanut shell hydrochars on the desiccation cracking characteristics of clayey soil. A series of controlled environmental laboratory incubations with regular imaging was conducted to determine crack development's dynamic in unamended and hydrochar-amended soils. The results reveal that the addition of wood hydrochar at 2% and 4% dosage reduced the crack intensity factor (CIF) by 22% and 43%, respectively, compared to the unamended control soil. Similarly, the inclusion of peanut shell hydrochar at 2% and 4% lowered the CIF by 22% and 51%, respectively. The presence of hydrophilic groups on the surface of hydrochars, such as O–H, CH, and C–O–C, enhanced the water retention capacity, as confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared analysis. The CIF decrease is attributed to mitigated water evaporation rates, enabled by enhanced water retention within the hydrochar pore spaces. These findings are supported by scanning electron microscopy analyses of the hydrochar morphology. Despite CIF reduction with hydrochar incorporation, the crack length density (CLD) increased across all hydrochar-amended series. In contrast to unamended soil which exhibited pronounced widening of large cracks and extensive inter-pore voids, the incorporation of hydrochar resulted in higher CLD due to the formation of finer interconnecting crack meshes. Consequently, the unamended control soil suffered greater water loss due to heightened evaporation rates. This study sheds new light on the potential of hydrochars in addressing desiccation-induced soil cracking and its implications for water conservation.

Preparation and Characterization of SPEEK–PVA Blend Membrane Additives with Colloidal Silica for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

An inexpensive membrane with high proton conductivity and high fuel cell performance, which can be an alternative to Nafion for PEMFC (Proton exchange membrane fuel cell), will overcome the obstacle to widespread commercialization of fuel cells due to high cost. For this purpose, SPEEK (sulfonated polyether ether ketone)-PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) blend membranes with colloidal silica additives were synthesized in this study. Ludox AS-40 was used as the colloidal silica source and the blend membrane was prepared by solution casting method. Water uptake capacity, swelling property, size change, dynamic mechanical analysis, ion exchange capacity, AC impedance analysis, hydrolytic and oxidative stability experiments of the synthesized Ludox additives blend membranes for fuel cell application were carried out, and the membranes were also characterized by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) analysis. While the water uptake capacities of SPEEK/PVA membranes containing 1% Ludox, 5% Ludox, and 10% Ludox at room temperature were found to be 14.08%, 14.84%, and 16.6%, respectively, the water uptake capacities at 80oC increased to 14.73%, 15.17%, and 17.11%. The proton conductivities of 1% Ludox, 5% Ludox and 10% Ludox doped SPEEK/PVA membranes at 80oC were 0.25 S/cm, 0.56 S/cm, and 0.65 S/cm, respectively. Similarly, ion exchange capacities were determined to be 1.41 meq/g, 1.63 meq/g, and 1.71 meq/g, respectively. All Ludox-added membranes exhibited excellent hydrolytic stability, retaining approximately 88% of their mass after 650 h. In addition, in oxidative stability experiments carried out in 4 ppm Fe+ 2 at 80oC, the 10% Ludox-added membrane exhibited the highest weight loss of 88.8% at the end of 24 h, while the 5% Ludox-additive membrane retained 91.6% of its total weight. Considering the proton conductivity and longevity tests of the synthesized membranes, they are thought to be promising structures.Graphical

Comparative Antioxidant Efficacy of Green-Synthesised Selenium Nanoparticles From Pongamia pinnata, Citrus sinensis, and Acacia auriculiformis: An In Vitro Analysis.

Aim This study aims to synthesise selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using extracts from Citrus sinensis peel (CSP), Millettia pinnata Leaf (MPL), and Acacia auriculiformis bark (AAB) as eco-friendly reducing agents. It seeks to compare the effectiveness of these plant extracts in the production of SeNPsand evaluate the antioxidant activities of the synthesised nanoparticles, establishing a link between the phytochemical constituents of the extracts and the antioxidant capacity of SeNPs for their potential applications in drug development and environmental sustainability. Introduction Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions in various fields, including medicine, environmental science, and materials engineering. SeNPs are of particular interest due to their unique properties and potential applications. The methods for synthesizing nanoparticles often involve hazardous chemicals, posing risks to the environment and human health. In response, green synthesis methods utilizing plant extracts have emerged as a sustainable alternative. This study focuses on utilizing CSP, MPL, and AAB extracts, rich in natural reducing agents such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, for the eco-friendly synthesis of SeNPs. These plant sources are chosen based on their known phytochemical profiles and potential antioxidant activities, and we aim to explore the correlation between the extracts' phytochemical composition and the antioxidant capabilities of the synthesised SeNPs. Methods SeNPs were synthesised using aqueous extracts of CSP, MPL, and AAB through a reduction process, in which selenium ions (Se4+) are reduced to elemental selenium. The presence of SeNPs was first visually monitored by colour change and then confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyses. The antioxidant activity of the synthesised SeNPs was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and the efficacy of SeNPs synthesised from different plant extracts was compared. Results The UV-Vis spectral analysis indicated a successful synthesis of SeNPs, as evidenced by the characteristic absorption peaks. The FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of organic molecules derived from the plant components on the outer layer of SeNPs, suggesting successful capping and stabilization of nanoparticles by phytochemicals in the extracts. Among the three types of SeNPs, those synthesised using Citrus sinensis peel extract (CSPE) exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, indicating superior antioxidant properties compared to SeNPs synthesised from Millettia pinnata leaf extract (MPLE) and Acacia auriculiformis bark extract (AABE). This suggests that the antioxidant capacity of SeNPs is significantly influenced by the phytochemical composition of the plant extract used for synthesis. Conclusion The study highlights the potential of CSPE as an effective natural source for synthesising antioxidant-rich SeNPs and underscores the importance of green synthesis approaches in producing environmentally friendly and biologically active nanomaterials.

Polyvinyl alcohol as solid proton donor to modify g-C3N4via hydrogen bonding enabling efficient photocatalytic H2O2 production from H2O and O2.

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was used as a solid proton donor to improve the photocatalytic performance of graphitic carbon nitride (CN) for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. The modified CN (CN/PVA) was prepared by mixing CN and PVA at room temperature. The H2O2 production efficiency of CN/PVA was 5.65 times higher than that of CN in pure water. Photocurrent measurement, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and photoluminescence (PL) analysis proved that PVA increased charge separation of CN. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analyses further suggested that PVA acted as the proton donor during H2O2 production by interacting with CN via hydrogen bonds. The combination of the charge separation enhancer and proton donor from PVA promoted the sequential two-step single-electron reduction of O2 for H2O2 production. This study paves the way for the modification of g-C3N4 with hydroxyl-containing materials as solid proton donors for photocatalytic H2O2 production.

Formulation of a Novel Polymeric Hydrogel Membrane for Periodontal Tissue Regeneration Using Tricalcium Phosphate-Alginate Reinforcement.

The primary goal of periodontal therapy is to facilitate the regeneration of tissues damaged by periodontal disease. In recent years, there has been a growing utilization of guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membranes with bioabsorbable properties as these membranes are increasingly employed to guide the growth of gingival tissue away from the root surface. Both resorbable and non-resorbable membranes currently employed act as physical barriers, preventing the ingrowth of connective and epithelial tissues into the defect and thereby facilitating periodontal tissue regeneration. This study aimed to develop a polymeric hydrogel membrane reinforced with tricalcium phosphate (TCP)-alginate and assess its potential for periodontal regeneration. TCPnanoparticles were incorporated into the alginate mixture to form TCP alginate. Subsequently, the mixture was cross-linked with calcium chloride to produce a TCP-alginate polymeric hydrogel membrane. The membrane underwent hemocompatibility analysis, and also scanning electron microscopyand Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyses were done. The SEM analysis revealed granulations and a bonded thread-like structure in the membrane, indicative of favorable conditions for cell attachment necessary for periodontal regeneration. FTIR analysis showed characteristic peaks in the spectrum, including those attributed to phosphate ion (PO4-3) at 1000.85 cm-1 and 600 cm-1, indicating the presence of β-TCP phases. Hemocompatibility assessment demonstrated a hemolysis rate of less than 5% for the TCP-alginate membrane, which is found to be within the limits. The developed TCP-reinforced alginate membrane exhibited hemocompatibility and safety, suggesting its suitability for utilization in periodontal therapy as an effective regenerative material.

Sorafenib and Piperine co-loaded PLGA nanoparticles: Development, characterization, and anti-cancer activity against hepatocellular carcinoma cell line

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exhibits high mortality rates in the advanced stage (>90 %). Sorafenib (SORA) is a targeted therapy approved for the treatment of advanced HCC; however, the reported response rate to such a therapeutic is suboptimal (<3%). Piperine (PIP) is an alkaloid demonstrated to exert a direct tumoricidal activity in HCC and improve the pharmacokinetic profiles of anticancer drugs including SORA. In this study, we developed a strategy to improve efficacy outcomes in HCC using PIP as an add-on treatment to support the first-line therapy SORA using biodegradable Poly (D, L-Lactide-co-glycolide, PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). SORA and PIP (both exhibit low aqueous solubility) were co-loaded into PLGA NPs (PNPs) and stabilized with various concentrations of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The SORA and PIP-loaded PNPs (SP-PNPs) were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Release of these drugs from SP-PNPs was investigated in vitro at both physiological and acidic pH, and kinetic models were employed to assess the mechanism of drug release. The in vitro efficacy of SP-PNPs against HCC cells (HepG2) was also evaluated. FTIR and XRD analyses revealed that the drugs encapsulated in PNPs were in an amorphous state, with no observed chemical interactions among the drugs or excipients. Assessment of drug release in vitro at pH 5 and 7.4 showed that SORA and PIP loaded in PNPs with 0.5 % PVA were released in a sustained manner, unlike pure drugs, which exhibited relatively fast release. SP-PNPs with 0.5 % PVA were spherical, had an average size of 224 nm, and had a high encapsulation efficiency (SORA ∼ 82 %, PIP ∼ 79 %), as well as superior cytotoxicity compared to SORA monotherapy in vitro. These results suggest that combining PIP with SORA using PNPs may be an effective strategy for the treatment of HCC and may set the stage for a comprehensive in vivo study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this novel formulation using a murine HCC model.

Extraction and characterization of natural dye from leaves of Lannea coromandelica and application on cotton fabric

Purpose The purpose of this study is to extract and characterize a novel natural dye from the leaves of Lannea coromandelica and the extraction with finding ways of dyeing cotton fabric using three mordants. Design/methodology/approach The colouring agents were extracted from the leaves of Lannea coromandelica using an aqueous extraction method. The extract was characterized using analysis methods of pH, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) and cyclic voltammetry measurement. The extract was applied to cotton fabric samples using a non-mordant and three mordants under the two mordanting methods. The dyeing performance of the extracted colouring agent was evaluated using colour fastness properties, colour strength (K/S) and colour space (CIE Lab). Findings The aqueous dye extract showed reddish-brown colour, and its pH was 5.94. The GC-MS analysis revealed that the dye extract from the leaves of Lannea coromandelica contained active chemical compounds. The UV-vis and FTIR analyses found that groups influenced the reddish-brown colour of the dye extraction. The cyclic voltammetry measurements discovered the electrochemical properties of the dye extraction. The mordanted fabric samples showed better colour fastness properties than the non-mordanted fabric sample. The K/S and CIE Lab results indicate that the cotton fabric samples dyed with mordants showed more significant dye affinities than non-mordanted fabric samples. Originality/value Researchers have never discovered that the Lannea coromandelica leaf extract is a natural dye for cotton fabric dyeing. The findings of this study showed that natural dyes extracted from Lannea coromandelica leaf could be an efficient colouring agent for use in cotton fabric.

Optimized extraction and nanoencapsulation of artemisia essential oils: A comprehensive analysis of bioactives and structural characterization

This study pertains to essential oil extraction from Artemisia absinthium L and a comparison of multiple extraction techniques. Ultrasound-assisted extraction emerged as the superior method, demonstrating remarkable extract recovery in contrast to microwave and hydrodistillation approaches. Bioactive compounds within the extracted Artemisia essential oils were meticulously identified through Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), shedding light on the chemical composition. Furthermore, we employed maltodextrin nanoparticles as a sophisticated nanocarrier for encapsulating the extracted oil. Our investigation encompassed various maltodextrin-to-artemisia extract ratios (1:10, 1:20, and 1:30), revealing encapsulation efficiencies of 75.21%, 78.23%, and 85.24%, respectively. Characterization of the nanoencapsulated powders through scanning electron microscopy unveiled their distinctive irregular morphology. X-ray diffraction (XRD), full width at half maximum for artemisia extract powder and nanoencapsulated powder were 0.12, 8.2, 8.70, and 8.89 and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), typical bands were 1348, 1625, 1596, 1614, 2920 cm−1. XRD and FTIR analyses furnished compelling evidence of successful encapsulation, presenting the artemisia extract in an amorphous state. Notably, the XRD patterns indicated a low degree of crystallinity, affirming the innovative nature of our approach. Significantly, the encapsulated powders retained the characteristic absorption bands of the artemisia extract, underscoring the preservation of its essential chemical properties throughout the encapsulation process.

Optimization of Coagulation to Remove Turbidity from Surface Water Using Novel Nature-Based Plant Coagulant and Response Surface Methodology

Plant-based natural coagulants are considered potential alternatives to chemical coagulants. These are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and produce less sludge compared to chemical coagulants. This study aims to evaluate the coagulation potential of a novel plant-based coagulant Sorghum for canal water treatment. In addition, a coagulant aid, i.e., Aloe Vera, was also tested to examine any further increase in turbidity removal through a jar test apparatus. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the coagulants. The experiment was designed using response surface methodology (RSM). When used alone, Sorghum resulted in a maximum turbidity removal of 87.73% at pH 2 and a dose of 40 mg/L, while the combination of Sorghum and Aloe Vera resulted in a turbidity removal of 84.2% at pH 2.7, and the doses of Sorghum and Aloe Vera were 17.1 mg/L and 0.9% (v/v), respectively. Thus, the Sorghum dose was significantly reduced when Aloe Vera was used in combination. At a pH of 7, Sorghum achieved 54% turbidity removal at a dose of 55.7 mg/L. Analyses of variance revealed that pH plays a more vital role in the removal of turbidity than the coagulant dose. FTIR and SEM analyses revealed that adsorption is the dominant coagulation mechanism for plant-based coagulants. The Sorghum powder exhibited carboxylic, amine, and carbonyl groups that functioned as active adsorption sites for suspended solids. In a similar vein, the coagulant aid Aloe Vera gel facilitated the adsorption process by fostering intermolecular hydrogen bonding between suspended particles and amine groups present within the gel.

FTIR spectroscopy for assessment of hair from lung cancer patients and its application in monitoring the chemotherapy treatment effect

Lung cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of death in China. The current gold standard for clinical lung cancer diagnosis is based on histopathological examination of tumors, but it has the limitation for easy operation and convenient applications. Therefore, researchers are still striving to develop other tools and methods for non-invasive and rapid assessment of the health conditions of lung cancer patients. Hair, as a reflection of the metabolism of the body, is closely related to human health conditions. In principle, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy can probe the major chemical compositions in the hair. However, as indicated by previous studies, there is still the challenge to make good use of FTIR spectroscopy for achieving reliable analysis of hair from cancer patients. In this study, hair samples from 82 lung cancer patients were collected and subjected to FTIR measurements and analysis, which showed the protein content in the hair is closely related to the protein content in the blood serum of patients, and the contents of protein and lipid are statistically lower in the lung cancer patients. Furthermore, we demonstrated that FTIR spectroscopy could be employed to monitor the hair of lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and confirmed that the FTIR spectra of the hair may reflect the resultant effect of the chemotherapy. As such, this work validates the way of using FTIR spectroscopy in hair analysis for the assistance of medical diagnosis of lung cancer as well as monitoring the conditions of the patients under the medical treatment.

Acylated Inulin as a Potential Shale Hydration Inhibitor in Water Based Drilling Fluids for Wellbore Stabilization.

Shale hydration dispersion and swelling are primary causes of wellbore instability in oil and gas reservoir exploration. In this study, inulin, a fructo-oligosaccharide extracted from Jerusalem artichoke roots, was modified by acylation with three acyl chlorides, and the products (C10-, C12-, and C14-inulin) were investigated for their use as novel shale hydration inhibitors. The inhibition properties were evaluated through the shale cuttings hot-rolling dispersion test, the sodium-based bentonite hydration test, and capillary suction. The three acylated inulins exhibited superb hydration-inhibiting performance at low concentrations, compared to the commonly used inhibitors of KCl and poly (ester amine). An inhibition mechanism was proposed based on surface tension measurements, contact angle measurements, Fourier-transform infrared analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The acylated inulin reduced the water surface tension significantly, thus, retarding the invasion of water into the shale formation. Then, the acylated inulin was adsorbed onto the shale surface by hydrogen bonding to form a compact, sealed, hydrophobic membrane. Furthermore, the acylated inulins are non-toxic and biodegradable, which meet the increasingly stringent environmental regulations in this field. This method might provide a new avenue for developing high-performance and ecofriendly shale hydration inhibitors.

Silver Nanoparticles Decorated in In Situ Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids Improved Properties in Poly(vinylidene fluoride)/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Blends

In this paper, reduced graphene oxide decorated with silver nanoparticle (rGO-Ag) nanohybrids were prepared using an environmentally friendly approach and incorporated as reinforcement in poly(vinylidene fluoride)-poly(methyl methacrylate) blends via a melt mixing process. The microstructure of rGO-Ag nanohybrids and its effect on the microstructure, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the PVDF/PMM/rGO-Ag was studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), tensile, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and impedance spectroscopy methods. FTIR and TEM analysis confirmed that rGO-Ag successfully synthesized and Ag nanoparticles are located on the rGO surface. The tensile analysis demonstrated that incorporating 1 wt.% of rGO-Ag in PVDF/PMMA blend increases Young’s modulus and strength of nanocomposite up to 31% and 35%, respectively. The Halpin-Tsai model was also used for PVDF/PMMA/rGO-Ag nanocomposites, and the results confirmed that this model works well to predict the tensile modulus. Impedance spectroscopy analysis showed that the presence of rGO-Ag nanohybrids in PVDF/PMMA blend effectively enhanced the conductivity of PVDF/PMMA blend. TGA results demonstrated that the presence of rGO-Ag nanohybrids enhanced the thermal stability of nanocomposites and increased the degradation temperature of PVDF/PMMA/rGO-Ag nanocomposites in the range of 20°C compared to PVDF/PMMA blend.

Enhancement in supercapacitive performance of calcium phosphate nanoneedles through Ni-ion incorporation: Insights into atomic and electronic structures

Phosphates have emerged as promising materials for electrochemical charge storage applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of their storage mechanism remains elusive. The present work reports the impact of nickel ion doping on hydroxyapatite (PH) prepared by a wet-chemical route. X-ray diffraction (XRD) reveals the formation of NiO and Raman and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analyses demonstrate the suppression of phosphate modes on doping. The incorporation of Ni ions induces nanoneedles morphology, effectively engineering the surface area and volume of the material. Notably, specific capacitance significantly improves to 415.35 Fg-1 at 10 mAg−1 for Ni-incorporated PH (0.1 M of Ni) (0.1NH), a remarkable enhancement compared to 166.77 Fg-1 at 10 mAg−1 for pristine (PH). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirms the mixed valence state of Ni2+/3+ and the presence of Ni–O bonding on Ni incorporation. Moreover, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) reveals the formation of Ni–O–Ni clusters, enhanced charge transfer by Ni ions, and optimized coordination of Ni–O bonds. The comprehensive correlation established between the phase, morphology, and electronic and local atomic structures elucidates the excellent electrochemical charge storage performance. This investigation sheds light on the potential of Ni-doped hydroxyapatite as a promising material for electrochemical applications, contributing valuable insights for the design and optimization of advanced energy storage systems.

Development of polylactic acid‐untreated bamboo filler composite and its chemical and mechanical properties

AbstractA fully bio‐based plastic composite comprising a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix with untreated bamboo filler (BF) was manufactured by a simple method. PLA and crushed bamboo flakes were compounded in a kneader and then injection molded without pretreatment of BF. The composites containing PLA and BF at 50:50 (PLA50/BF50) and 60:40 mass ratios (PLA60/BF40) were obtained. The PLA60/BF40 and PLA50/BF50 products were evaluated by thermal analysis (TG/DTA, DSC, and DMA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis, and abrasive wear test. From the results, the composite of PLA and untreated BF was fabricated under high temperature and high‐pressure conditions, in kneading at 180°C and injection molding at 150–175°C and 95 MPa for 1.5 s. FTIR analysis indicated that changes in the functional groups of the composite products were dependent on the proportion of BF. Unfortunately, the BF did not improve the stiffness, viscoelasticity, and wear resistance of the PLA. However, the PLA50/BF50 product had a storage modulus comparable to that of the pure PLA product, and of which a 30% cost reduction was achieved by using abundant bamboo and reducing the amount of PLA.

Oily Bubble Flotation of Coal Macerals of Shendong Jurassic Coal

The comprehensive quality enhancement and grading of coal are crucial methods for unlocking the high value-added and low-carbon utilization of coal resources. In this work, the influence of oily bubbles on the flotation of Shendong Jurassic vitrinite-rich coal and inertinite-rich coal was studied via flotation tests, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle detection, and induction time measurements. FT-IR and XPS analyses demonstrated that the surface of inertinite-rich coal contains more hydrophilic oxygen-containing functional groups. Contact angle and induction time measurements showed that the vitrinite-rich coal is more hydrophobic than inertinite-rich coal, and that for both air and oily bubbles, the induction time on the surface of vitrinite-rich coal is shorter than that on the surface of inertinite-rich coal. In addition, rather remarkably, the induction times for both vitrinite-rich coal and inertinite-rich coal are significantly reduced by oily bubbles. Finally, a better flotation performance for oily bubble flotation of vitrinite-rich coal and inertinite-rich coal was found. It appears that oily bubble flotation is an efficient method for enhancing the recovery of vitrinite-rich coal and inertinite-rich coal.

Biodegradable composites made from maize flour filled with olive husk fibers

The development of biomaterials based on maize flour reinforced with natural fiber was studied with the aim of replacing conventional polymers of petrochemical origin and to simplify assimilated rubbish managing strategies, which reduces the pollution of the environment. In this study, several composites based on plasticized maize flour (PMF) reinforced by the olive husk flour (OHF) in a range from 10% to 40% (wt.%) have been produced with double screw extruder. 15% (wt.%) of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and graft polyethylene combined with maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) bonding substance at 5 (wt.%) were added to obtain high mechanical characteristics and improve blend compatibility. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis showed that the fibers were well dispersed in matrix. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis revealed an increase in the absorption bands characteristic of hydroxyl groups and the anhydroglucose ring O-C stretch by raising OHF amount in composites. Thermal stabilization and density of composites increase with the percentage of fiber. For fiber weights of 10 and 40 (wt.%), the tensile strength increased as of 8.4 to 16.4 MPa and the Young modulus as of 70 to 245%, respectively. The biodegradability of samples was tested by burying them in the soil for 90 days. The weight loss test showed that the biodegradability accelerated with the increase in OHF quantity in the PMF. The latter finding was confirmed by FTIR analysis and deteriorated surface of samples examined by SEM analysis.

Sweeteners in Orodispersible Films: How Much is too Much?

Four natural sweeteners (sucrose, xylitol, fructose, and isomalt) were selected to examine the influence of their qualities and amounts on the characteristics of orodispersible films. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (2% w/w) was utilized as the film-forming polymer and 1% w/w glycerol as a plasticizer. Films were produced through the solvent casting method, rendering them suitable for convenient application in community or hospital pharmacy settings. The physicochemical and optical properties of the films were analyzed, and Fourier-transform infrared analysis was carried out. All films exhibited acceptable disintegration time, uniformity of mass, thickness, and optical characteristics, with significant dependence (p<0.05) on both sweetener type and quantity. Disintegration time varied based on the employed method, as well as the characteristics and amount of sweetener. Additionally, all films maintained pH values within the oral cavity range, suggesting no potential irritancy upon administration. Fourier-transform infrared analysis confirmed the formation of the film and demonstrated compatibility between its components.

Soy conglycinin amyloid fibril and chitosan complex scaffold for cultivated meat application

This study addresses the critical need in cultivated meat production for suitable scaffolds that support the growth and differentiation of muscle cells. We explore the synergy of soy conglycinin (7S) amyloid protein fibrils and chitosan to create three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds, specifically designed for this application. By varying the molecular weight and deacetylation degrees of chitosan, we employed a controlled temperature water annealing method to produce these complex scaffolds. The formation mechanism of the 7S-chitosan scaffolds was elucidated through molecular simulation and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. Characterization of the scaffolds revealed pore sizes within the 50–250 μm range, porosities from 71% to 78%, and compressive moduli varying between 4.8 and 15.3 kPa, dependent on the chitosan's deacetylation degree and molecular weight. Notably, these scaffolds maintained structural integrity in refrigerated Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) for up to three months and effectively supported the growth and differentiation of C2C12 mouse skeletal muscle cells without necessitating additional cell adhesion enhancements. Their mechanical properties, comparable to natural muscle tissue, and compatibility with high-temperature sterilization processes, underscore their potential as innovative solutions in the field of cultivated meat production.