Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation Research Articles

Synthesis of silica hollow core shell nanoparticles by sacrificial nitrated polystyrene template approach for targeted drug delivery application

Silica hollow core shell nanoparticles (SHCNs) were synthesized by employing nitrated polystyrene as sacrificial template. Polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles were functionalized with nitro functional group to modify the surface properties and to enhance the pore size of SHCNs. Calcination of silica coated nitrated PS nanoparticles lead to the formation of SHCNs and no traces of the polymer particles were found inside SHCNs as analyzed in fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR). Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images were used to analyze the shell thickness of silica which was tuned between 15 and 35 nm. Specific surface area and average pore sizes of SHCNs were found to vary from 533.6 to 130.5 m2/g and 2.6 to 3.7 nm respectively. SHCNs were loaded with doxorubicin to evaluate the potential release kinetics by varying the silica shell thickness and pH of the release medium. SHCNs showed sustained release for 250 min at a pH of 7.4.

The Use of Conductive Polymers Embedded Macro Porous Pei and Ionic Liquid Form of Pei Cryogels for Potential Conductometric Sensor Application to CO2

Polyethyleneimine (PEI) cryogels with interconnected superporous morphology were synthesized via the cryopolymerization technique. Then, conductive polymers, poly(Aniline) (PANi), poly(Pyrrole) (PPy), and poly(Thiophene) (PTh) were prepared within these PEI cryogels. Then, the conductive polymer embedding PEI composites’ characterization was carried morphologically using scanning electron microscope (SEM) by means of Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FT-IR) spectrometer, and by means of electrical conductivity measurements using an electrometer. Among all the prepared cryogel conductive polymer composites, the highest value in terms of conductivity was determined for PEI/PANi cryogel composites with 4.80 × 10−3 S.cm−1. Afterward, to prepare polymeric ionic liquid (PIL) forms of PEI and PEI/PANi composites. To assess the effect of anions on the conductivities of the prepared composites, PEI-based cryogels were anion ex-changed after protonation with HCl by treatment of aqueous solutions of sodium dicyanamide (Na+[N(CN)2]−), ammonium hexafluorophosphate (NH4+[PF6]−), sodium tetrafluoroborate (Na+[BF4]−), and potassium thiocyanate (K+[SCN]−), separately. Furthermore, PEI-based cryogel composites and their PIL forms were tested as a sensor for CO2 gas. The higher conductivity changes were observed on bare PEI cryogel and PEI+[BF4]− PIL cryogels with 1000-fold decrease on conductivity upon 240 min CO2 exposure. The sensitivity and recovery percent of bare PEI and PEI+[BF4]− PIL cryogels were shown almost the same with a two-fold decrease in the presence of 0.009 mole of CO2 gas, and approximately 30% recovery after the fifth consecutive reuse.

Impact on fresh, mechanical, and microstructural properties of high strength self-compacting concrete by marble cutting slurry waste, fly ash, and silica fume

Disposal of marble cutting slurry waste (MCSW) has acquired a disastrous proportion and is a leading cause of environmental and health-related issues. On the other hand, high strength self-compacting concrete (HSSCC) is being widely used which requires a higher quantity of cement and ultimately resulting in the substantial CO2 emission to the environment. The aim of this study is to produce economical and eco-efficient HSSCC using MCSW, fly ash (FA), and silica fume (SF). This would help to beneficially use MCSW and minimize the need to use large quantities of cement in HSSCC production, thus significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Total sixteen number of HSSCC mixes in binary, ternary and quaternary form were prepared by incorporating MCSW, FA, and SF as a replacement of cement. Among all HSSCC mixes, one mix was prepared with a 100% cement binder which was named as control mix. The impact on fresh properties was assessed by slump flow, T500 time, V-funnel time, fresh density, L-box height ratio, J-ring flow, and J-ring step height. Mechanical performance in terms of compressive strength, and other properties like percentage of water absorption, percentage of voids, and dry bulk density were also examined. The microstructural investigation was carried out using the Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) techniques. It was observed that the incorporation of MCSW and FA improved the fresh properties of HSSCC. A combined use of 10% MCSW and 15% FA with 5% SF as cement replacement resulted in enhanced mechanical performance and amended microstructure.

Phyto-Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Applications of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) Using Toxicosis Mediated Plant Nicotiana glauca Graham

Nanotechnology is a newer branch of material science that thrives in the interdisciplinary fields including biomedical, therapeutics, diagnostics etc. Among the metallic nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in particular are known for their versatile biological applications in several scientific fields in general and specifically the biomedical field. The current article accounts for an environmentally safe method for AuNPs synthesis using the chloroauric acid and ethanolic leaf extract of Nicotiana glauca (NG), for the first time. Various analytical techniques identified properties of synthesized AuNP to include UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier-Transform Infrared Radiation (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology. The average diameter of synthesized AuNP was about 100 nm. Antimicrobial activity of AuNPs was investigated on Grampositive ( Staphylococcus aureus ), Gram-negative (Escherichia coli , Proteus mirabilis, and Shigella flexneri) and fungi (Candida albicans) using well diffusion method. Cytotoxic action on Hela/HepG2 tumor cell lines and normal rat splenic cells were tested through cell viability. Furthermore, Larvicidal toxicity was performed on 4th instar larvae of Culex pipens . NG extract (NGEx) alone exerted significantly lower (6–7 mm) antimicrobial activity than that of NG extract with AuNPs (14–15 mm). Cytotoxicity screening revealed that both preparations were growth inhibitory on both cell lines and splenic cells. For larvicidal properties, the extract and gold nanoparticles (NGExAu) showed larvicidal effect against 4th instar larvae of Culex pipiens. NGExAu was more lethal (LC50 = 164.4072 ppm; LC90 = 613.366 ppm) against Cx. pipiens under exposure for 24 h with lesser lethal content com- pared to NGEx of only (LC50 = 752.865 ppm; LC90 = 4455.726 ppm).

Synthesis of TiO2/nZVI nanocomposite for nitrate removal from aqueous solution

To develop a new adsorbent for removal of nitrate and to enhance the adsorbent separation from aqueous solution, surface modification of titanium dioxide nanoparticles with nano-zero-valent iron (nZVI) was performed through chemical coprecipitation of magnetic nanoparticles on TiO2 surface. Morphological, structural and magnetic properties of modified adsorbents (TiO2/nZVI) were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). To determine the ionic strength effect and optimal removal conditions, the effect of contact time (60–210 min), pH (4–10) and adsorbent dosage (0.5–1.5 g/L) on adsorption efficiency were studied, using response surface method. Obtained results showed that the nitrate removal efficiency decreased with increasing ionic strength. The TiO2/nZVI nanocomposites exhibited a ferromagnetic behavior and its saturation magnetization was 795.28 memu/g. The maximum nitrate removal (98.226%) achieved by modified TiO2 was about 14.65% higher than the unmodified nanoparticles. The optimized adsorption parameters were: adsorbent dosage 0.982 g/L, pH 4.185 and the contact time 150.091 min.

A NOVEL STUDY ON SURFACE MODIFICATION OF PALMYRA FIBERS FOR ENHANCING MECHANICAL AND THERMAL PROPERTIES

Natural fiber reinforcing in engineering thermoplastics (Nylon melting point around 230∘C) is challenging, due to the lower degradation temperature ([Formula: see text]C) of lignocellulosic fibers. Further, increasing temperature (beyond 200∘C) results in weakening of its mechanical properties. In this investigation, camphor soot reinforced palmyra fibers (CSRPF) are manufactured by osmosis with the help of design of experiments (DOE) and are examined for different time (4, 8 and 12[Formula: see text]h), temperature (30∘C, 40∘C and 50∘C) and camphor soot concentrations (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5[Formula: see text]wt.%) using L9orthogonal array. The osmosis rate of modified fibers was calculated and tested for their tensile strength as the osmosis rate and tensile strength are the main objective functions. Based on DOE and taguchi-ANOVA analysis, optimal parameters were obtained through main effect plots and Anova results. Further, an optimal combination of parameters for CSRPF was characterized for thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS) to inspect and compare it with neat palmyra fibers. There was considerable improvement in the CSRPF tensile strength about 84[Formula: see text]Mpa with respect to neat palmyra fibers which is 58[Formula: see text]MPa. TGA reveals the degradation temperature of neat palmyra fiber is about 225∘C and it is enhanced in case of CSRPF about 265∘C which accounts for 15% enhanced thermal stability. The crystallinity index (CI) of CSRPF was reduced marginally compared to the neat palmyra fibers. FTIR analysis showed the peak drift marginally to the left in CSRPF due to the coating of camphor soot particles. The microstructure of both neat and CSRPF are examined using SEM and EDS which shows that 93.71% carbon was present in the cross section of CSRPF compared to the neat palmyra fiber (62.58%).

Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) Using Ricinus communis Leaf Ethanol Extract, Their Characterization, and Biological Applications.

The purpose of this study was to explore the collective biological properties of Ricinus communis ethanol leaf extract (RcExt) and extract-fabricated gold nanoparticles (RcExt-AuNPs). AuNPs were synthesized using RcExt. Fingerprint data of the biochemicals putatively found in RcExt were obtained using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet-visible (HPLC/UV-VIS) analyses. RcExt-AuNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier- transform infrared radiation (FTIR) spectroscopy. Cytotoxic activity on the Hela and HepG2 tumor cell lines was tested through cell viability, antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal pathogens through a well diffusion assay, hemolytic activity on red blood cells through absorbance reading, and stimulatory/inhibitory effects on splenic cells by cell viability. AuNPs of 200 nm size were synthesized. GC-MS/MS analysis revealed 12 peaks and HPLC/UV-VIS analysis resulted in 18, 13, and five peaks at the wavelengths of 220, 254, and 300 nm, respectively. Cytotoxicity screening revealed that RcExt had stimulatory effects (6.08%) on Hela cells and an inhibitory effect (−28.33%) on HepG2 cells, whereas RcExt-AuNPs showed inhibitory effects (−58.64% and −42.74%) on Hela and HepG2 cells, respectively. Antimicrobial activity of RcExt-AuNPs against tested pathogens was significantly higher (average diameters of inhibition zones were higher (ranging from 9.33 mm to 16.33 mm)) than those of RcExt (ranging from 6.00 mm to 7.33 mm). RcExt and RcExt-AuNPs showed 4.15% and 100% lytic effects, respectively. Inhibitory effects on splenic cells for RcExt-AuNPs were observed to be significantly higher (−30.56% to −72.62%) than those of RcExt (−41.55% to −62.25%) between concentrations of 25 to 200 µg/mL. RcExt-AuNPs were inhibitory against HepG2 and Hela cells, while RcExt inhibited HepG2 but stimulated Hela cells. RcExt-AuNPs showed comparatively more antimicrobial activity. RcExt was safe while RcExt-AuNPs harmful to red blood cells (RBCs). RcExt and RcExt-AuNPs showed inhibitory effects on splenic cells irrespective of dose.

Identification of Secondary Metabolite using Phytochemical and Infra-Radiation Test on the Leaves of Vitex pinnata found in the Seulawah Agam mountain region of Aceh

Laban (Vitex pinnata) is a member of the verse majority of plants used by people around the world to treat diseases. The leaves of this plant are used to treat fever and hypertension; the stem bark to treat stomach pain and diarrhea, while the root skin is used as a tea that can relieve fatigue and body aches. This research study was conducted to identify the active compound of the laban leaf and to also carry out a Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR) test on it. This study was done on the n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol solvent extracts of laban leaves. The extracts were then concentrated and the quality of the extracts assessed using a phytochemical test and FTIR test. After the extraction process, the qualities of the extract of n-hexane from laban leaves using an organoleptic test was brown to black-brown in color, and had a herbaceous odor. The weight of the extract was 59.82g, with a yield value of 1.994%. The ethyl acetate extract was assessed using an organoleptic test. It had a dark black color and a typical henna smell. The extract had a weight of 189.089g and a yield value of 6.30%. Using an organoleptic test to assess the quality of the methanol extract, a typical henna smell was noticed and the extract color was dark black. The weight of the extract was 442.06g and it had a yield value of 14.73%. A secondary metabolite test obtained data that showed that the n-hexane extract was positive for steroids and phenol/tannin, while ethyl acetate extract was positive for steroid, terpenoid, saponin, flavonoid and phenol/tannin using the Dragendorff’s and Wagner’s reagents. The methanol extract was positive for steroid, terpenoid, saponin, flavonoid and phenol/tannin using Mayer’s and Dragendorff’s reagents. The extracts of n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol were then electrolyzed with Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR) to see the constituents of the extracts at different wavelengths for each functional group.

CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF ZnO NANOPARTICLES SYNTHESIZED BY CO PRECIPITATION METHOD

Objective: In the present study the antibacterial activity of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles was investigated against gram negative (Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris) and gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans) organisms.Methods: The synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles was carried out by co-precipitation method using zinc sulfate and sodium hydroxide as precursors. These nanoparticles were characterized by XRD (X-Ray Diffraction), FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation), UV-Visible spectroscopy and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) with EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis). As well as antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration of the nanoparticles were carried out by agar well diffusion method and broth dilution method respectively against gram negative (Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris) and gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans) bacteria.Results: The average crystallite size of ZnO nanoparticles was found to be 35 nm by X-ray diffraction. The vibration bands at 450 and 603 cm-1 which were assigned for ZnO stretching vibration were observed in FTIR spectrum. The optical absorption band at 383 nm was obtained from UV-Visible spectrum. Spherical shape morphology was observed in SEM studies. The antibacterial assay clearly expressed that E. coli showed a maximum zone of inhibition (32±0.20 mm) followed by Proteus vulgaris (30±0.45 nm) at 50 mg/ml concentration of ZnO nanoparticles.Conclusion: Zinc oxide nanoparticles have exhibited good antibacterial activity with gram negative bacteria when compared to gram positive bacteria.

Design of fuzzy radial basis function neural network classifier based on information data preprocessing for recycling black plastic wastes: comparative studies of ATR FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy

As large amounts of plastics are widely used in diverse areas of industry, the amount of plastic waste, including black plastics, continues to increase. In this situation, the necessity of useful recycling having limited resources gradually increases. The design of plastic classification systems for plastics recycling becomes more important to effectively address recycling activities. Until now, conventional sorting systems based on the near infrared ray technology have been used to classify plastic wastes. However, the classification of black plastic waste still remains a challenge because such materials do not reflect sufficient signals due to the absorption of laser light coming from the NIR spectrometer. In order to solve such problems, this research is focused on an efficient way to identify black plastics. Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FT-IR) and a Raman spectrometer are used to carry out qualitative and quantitative analysis for the effective as well as efficient classification of black plastic wastes. In this study, to effectively classify the black plastic waste, data processing and Fuzzy Transform (F-Transform) as well as PCA-based Fuzzy Radial Basis Function Neural Networks (FRBFNNs) classifier is proposed. Input variables extracted on a basis of chemical characteristic peaks as well as interval range positioned near the chemical characteristic peaks were exploited as a way to improve the classification performance of the FRBFNN classifier. In order to evaluate the performance of the classifier, a suite of techniques including F-Transform-based as well as Principal Component Analysis (PCA)-based FRBFNNs classifier designed with the aid of Particle Swam Optimization are developed to analyze and classify black plastics.

Polyamide Nanofibers Reinforced Titanium Nanoparticles Composites for hydrophobic surfaces

In this study, samples of polyamide (6) (PA 6) nanofibers armed with TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared using an electrospinning method for the preparation of nanocomposite fibres. The nanofibers were prepared under 0.15% weight, 25 kV applied voltage, 15 cm electrospinning distance, 0.48 mm tip diameter and 0.3 ml/hr injection rate to obtain nanofibers with a diameter of about 100 nm and then reinforced with (50 nm diameter ) Titanium Nanoparticles. The properties and morphology of the surface were studied using the atomic force microscopy (AFM) scanner. The polyamide structure was also examined by the Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) infrared device, and the contact angle was measured with water using a contact angle analyzer. The results showed that the diameter of the fibres ranged between 80-100 nm and contain some beads. The infrared test also showed that the intensity of the peaks decreases after the transformation of polyamide into nanofibric. The resulting surface has the hydrophobic properties, especially after the addition of Titanium nanoparticles.

A Novel Study on Thermal Stability of Camphor Soot Reinforced Coir Fibers

Thermoplastics, reinforced with lignocellulosic fibers are usually processed at lower temperatures ranging from 100 °C to 160 °C. Further increase in temperature leads to the degradation of the fibers mechanical properties. Camphor soot reinforced coir fibers (CSRCF) based on the osmosis technique were prepared, in this study. Parameters using Design of Experiments (DOE) varied and the process is investigated for varied camphor soot concentrations (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 wt. %), time (4, 8 and 12 hrs.) and temperature (30, 40 and 50 °C) with three levels for each parameter (L9 Orthogonal array). Relative camphor soot content in the coir fiber (RCSCF) and tensile strength are vital objective functions. Tensile tests were conducted on tensometer according to DOE, and based on analysis of variance (ANOVA). The optimal results from ANOVA were established by charting the main effect plots. The optimal combination of parameters for CSRCF were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR). Further, scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersion spectroscope (EDS) examined and compared neat fibers. The results showed a considerable increase in tensile strength by about 37 % for CSRCF compared to neat fibers. XRD revealed that crystallinity index was slightly reduced for modified fibers. The TGA result reveals that thermal stability of the modified fibers improved by 15 % compared to neat fibers. FTIR analysis revealed that modified fibers experienced peak diminishing in OH, CH stretching and carbonyl groups. The Morphology study of neat and CSRCF were examined using SEM with EDS analysis which revealed 94 % carbonaceous compounds in a cross examination of modified fibers compared to the cross section of a neat coir fiber (64 %).

Investigating the Catalytic Performance of Graphene Oxide –Polyaniline –Lignosulfonate Nanocomposite in the Synthesis of Polysubstituted Pyridines via a Four‐Component Reaction

AbstractIn this research, graphene oxide –polyaniline −lignosulfonate (GO‐PANI‐LS) nanocomposite was synthesized successfully and it was used as an effective recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of polysubstituted pyridines. Characterization of the prepared nanocomposite was carried out by Fourier transform infrared radiation (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction patterns (XRD), Energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The first report of using this nanocomposite as a heterogeneous catalyst in synthesis of polysubstituted pyridines, Eco‐friendly, high catalytic activity of catalyst, simplicity of procedure, mild reaction conditions, easy recovery and considerable reusability without significant loss of performance are advantages of this method.

Optimization of citrus peels D-limonene extraction using solvent-free microwave green technology

ABSTRACTAttention is presently drawn to the development of a new and green alternative technique for the extraction of essential oil from citrus plant materials. This study was aimed at the extracting essential oil from orange and lemon peels using solvent-free microwave method. This process uses microwave-assisted hydro-diffusion technique to extract essential oil from citrus peels. Response surface methodology was used to investigate the effect of microwave power (200–1,000 W) and extraction time (10–40 min) on the essential oil yield. The oil extracted was characterized using Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) and Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis to determine the functional groups and chemical components present, respectively. The optimum yield of extract from orange and lemon peels were 3.7 and 2.0%, respectively at corresponding power of 1,000 W and time of 10 min. The analysis of variance results showed that the resulting models for both orange and lemon peels were significant and microwave power had greater influence on the extraction processes at both linear and quadratic levels. The FTIR analysis revealed prominent functional groups of alkenes that majorly constitute limonene compound at 1,642 and 1,643 cm−1 for orange and lemon peels, respectively. The present process permits fast and efficient extraction, avoids water and solvent consumption, and allows substantial energy savings.

Development and Characterization of a Composite Anthill-chicken Eggshell Catalyst for Biodiesel Production from Waste Frying Oil

The primary aim of this research is to synthesis composite anthill-chicken eggshell catalyst, which is characterized and employed for the synthesis of biodiesel from waste frying oil. The as-synthesized catalyst was characterized using various characterization techniques, such as Xray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Basicity. The influence of different reaction parameters on the catalytic reaction, reaction time, catalyst loading and reaction temperature in the range of 50–75°C were studied at fixed methanol/oil ratio of 6:1. The experimental data obtained showed that at reaction time of 2 h, catalyst loading of 5 wt% and reaction temperature of 60°C, the biodiesel yield was 70%. The synthesized catalyst was found to convert low-grade oil into biodiesel via a single-step transesterification process, and its activity has the potential for improvement.

Characterizing Corn and Cattle Manure Derived Biochars Relevant to Their Use as Soil Additives

Abstract. Biomass-derived biochars have shown potential for improving soil properties as a whole that are conducive to plant growth with reduced environmental pollution. Four types of biomass, namely, corn stover (CS), dried distillers’ grains and solubles (DDGS), dairy manure (DM), and beef feedlot manure (BFM), were transformed to biochar through pyrolysis at 400°C with 1, 2, or 3 h residence time. The biochars were characterized by proximate analysis (volatile matter (VM), ash, and fixed carbon (FC)), ultimate analysis (total carbon (TC), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O)), and thermogravimetric analysis (pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and bulk density (BD)). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDXS), and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to categorize pore size, functional groups, and mineralogical properties related to potential use in environmental remediation. The highest heating value (HV) was measured with CS (28 to 29 MJ kg-1), and the lowest HV was measured with BFM (~5 MJ kg-1). The greatest organic carbon (OC) content was obtained with CS (68%), followed by DDGS (63%), DM (44%), and BFM (15.4%) biochars. The SEM images showed the macrocellular morphology of the original shape of the biomass particles, which consisted mainly of aggregate microspheres 2 to 10 µm in size. The surface functional groups of all four biochars were dominated by hydroxyl, methyl, methylene, aromatic carbonyl/carboxylic, and alkene groups. The CS and DDGS biochars showed higher TC (76%), FC (61%), OC (67%), water holding capacity, and mineral contents and outperformed the DM and BFM biochars as the best soil amendments. Keywords: Beef feedlot manure, Corn stover, Dairy manure, Dried distillers’ grains and solubles.

Bleach plant effluent treatment in anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AMBR) using carbon nanotube/polysulfone nanocomposite membranes

The pulp and paper industry is one of the largest industrial water users in South Africa, and hence produces considerable volumes of effluents which represent a major source of pollution due their high biological and chemical oxygen demand. The objective of this study was to synthesize and assess the application of carbon nanotube/polysulfone nanocomposite membranes coupled to an anaerobic membrane bioreactor to determine their effectiveness for the treatment of bleach effluent with regard to the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and possible cost saving implications of the process. Carbon nanotube/polysulfone nanocomposite membranes were synthesized using the phase inversion method and characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angles and fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR). A 10 1 anaerobic reactor containing 9g of geotextile strips (18×3.5cm) was coupled with the synthesized carbon nanotube/polysulfone nanocomposite membrane and operated at an HRT of 12h and temperature of 25°C without sludge withdrawal. It was found that the addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to the polysulfone nanocomposite membrane increases the fluxes across the membranes, which may be attributed to the presence of the OH bonds that alters the contact angles and the roughness of the membrane. The effluent COD, volatile fatty acid (VFA), and suspended solids (SS) concentrations were found to be below 45, 32 and 15mg/l, respectively, during 85days of operation with intermittent back washing. Low cross flow velocity (CFV) and transmembrane pressure (TMP) were applied to reduce operation cost as well as to minimize shear stress.

Biological synthesis and antimicrobial activity of nano silver using Hypericum scabrum seed extract

ABSTRACTNanophytosynthesis of silver nanoparticles by plant-mediated hydromethanolic extract from Hypericum scabrum seeds and investigation of those physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity are reported. The nanoparticles were analyzed and characterized by UV-Vis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The XRD study showed that the particles are crystalline in nature with a face-centered cubic (fcc) structure and a mean size of 19.8 nm. The FT-IR studies of plant extract taken before and after synthesis of nanoparticles showed the possible functional groups responsible for the formation of nanoparticles. The bioassay showed that the silver nanoparticles exhibited a good antimicrobial activity.

Experimental Studies to Assess Surface Wear Using Grease Degradation, Bearing Temperature and Statistical Parameter of Vibration Signals in a Roller Bearing

The aim of current study is to assess the surface wear of outer race of the roller bearing using degradation of grease and analysis of vibration signals. Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR) is employed to observe degradation of grease with running hours. Temperature measurement is carried out for bearing using k type thermocouple. Kurtosis value is extracted from time domain signals captured to indicate progressive wear in the bearing. It is found in FTIR spectrum of 450 hours aged grease sample that an absorbance peak occurred around a wavelength of 1750 cm-1 which indicated the formation of oxidation products. Analysis of time domain signals revealed that kurtosis values increased for the bearing after 450 hours of run compared to that of healthy bearing. A maximum bearing temperature of 70°C occurred after 450 hours of run as depicted by temperature indicator. Further, SEM morphology of bearing surfaces illustrated wear tracks and ploughing marks as a result of wear with running hours.

Green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles conjugated Clausena dentata plant leaf extract and their insecticidal potential against mosquito vectors

Mosquitoes are major vectors for the transmission of many diseases like chikungunya, malaria, dengue, zika, etc. worldwide. In the present study, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were synthesized from Clausena dentata and were tested for their larvicidal efficacy against the fourth-instar larvae of Anopheles stephensi, Aedes Aegypti, and Culex quinquefasciatus. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation (FTIR) spectroscopy, EDaX, and SEM. The results recorded from UV-Vis spectroscopy show the peak absorption spectrum at 420 nm. In FTIR, the maximum peak value is 2922.25 cm−1 assigned to N-H group (amide group). In EDaX analysis shows peak around 72.64 which confirm the binding intensity of selenium. In SEM analysis, the synthesized SeNPs sizes were ranging from 46.32 nm to 78.88 nm. The synthesized SeNPs produced high mortality with very low concentration (LC50) were 240.714 mg/L; 104.13 mg/L, and 99.602 mg/L for A. stephensi, A. Aegypti, and C. quinquefasciatus, respectively. These results suggest that the C. dentata leaf extract-mediated biosynthesis of SeNPs has the potential to be used as an ideal ecofriendly approach toward the control of mosquito vectors at early stages.