Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis Research Articles

The addition of Bi2WO6 nanoparticles to polyvinyl alcohol film: Improvements in optical, mechanical, and electrical properties

This study deals with the influence of adding Bi2WO6 (BWO) nanoparticles on the optical, structural, dielectric, and mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). BWO nanoparticles synthesized by solvothermal method were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS). The thick film nanocomposites were analyzed by Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, XRD device, SEM, atomic force microscope (AFM), ultraviolet visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometer, impedance analyzer, and tensile test machine. While FTIR analyses confirmed the formation of composite structure and the presence of BWO in the composites, AFM views indicated the reduced roughness for composites. Additionally, the UV–Vis light absorption spectra revealed a narrowed band gap in the composites. Moreover, with increasing BWO contribution, gradual increases were recorded in Young's modulus, toughness and % breaking strain parameters. The frequency dependent dielectric properties was also shown that the energy storage ability of the PVA matrix enhances 25 % and 50 % due to 2 % and 3 % BWO additives, respectively. However, the composite with higher ε′ and lower ε″ values than the pure PVA in the entire frequency range was the 2 % BWO-doped nanocomposite. Based on the serious and simultaneously improvements in electrical, optical and mechanical properties, it can be suggested that 2 % BWO additive provides the opportunity to expand the application area of PVA synergistically.

Formation of Bio-based Derived Dicalcium Silicate Ceramics via Mechanochemical Treatment: Physical, XRD, SEM and FTIR Analyses

Beta-dicalcium silicate plays an important role in modern technology, but its tendency for polymorphic transformation results in the dusting phenomenon, is a major challenge. Therefore, mechanochemical treatment is used to reduce the particle size to retain the stability of the polymorph. In this study, pure dicalcium silicate ceramics of β-monoclinic structure with P 121/c1 space group were synthesized using calcium oxide and silicate powders derived from calcined eggshells and rice husks, respectively. The powders were mixed in a 2:1 molar ratio by mechanochemical treatment and heat-treated in the air at temperatures ranging from 900°C to 1100°C for 2 h. The results reveal that pure betadicalciumsilicate formed at 1100°C without adding stabilizers. The properties of the pristine and sintered bodies were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM revealed that the grain and pore sizes increase with rising sintering temperatures. FTIR spectra indicate the existence of Si-O bonds in -4 4 SiO tetrahedrons on all the samples. The sample sintered at 1000°C attains the lowest bulk density (1.2463 g/cm3), whereas the apparent porosity is the highest (62.5%). The reason for this trend is due to the decomposition of carbonate into CO2 gas. The densification onset for the sample sintered at 1100°C as the bulk density rises and grain size achieves 6.06 μm. This study further explains the effect of sintering temperatures on the physical, structural, and morphological properties of Ca2SiO4 which would also be useful for further optimization of its use.

Phase and microstructural characterization of swat soapstone (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2)

Abstract This study focuses on the comprehensive exploration of Swat soapstone, employing a range of analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy. XRD was used to identify the phase and lattice parameters of the soapstone. SEM further scrutinizes the dispersed soapstone particles, revealing different structural characteristics such as a slightly elongated, cubic-like structure, a straight rod-like formation, and a rough, textured surface. EDX spectroscopy was utilized for studying the elemental composition of the soapstone. The analysis identifies talc as the primary mineral in Swat soapstone, with iron, an element, also contributing notably to its composition. This underscores the complexity of Swat soapstone’s internal structure. XRF analysis further contributes to the elemental characterization, revealing a dominant composition of silicon (Si) at 48.567 wt% and a notable contribution from iron (Fe) at 16.108 wt%. FTIR analysis confirmed the absorption of infrared radiation at the non-bridging oxygen (Si–O–) within the silicate network and the Si–O–Si bending vibration. This work investigates the chemical and morphological details of the Swat soapstone.

Influence of Different Grafted Natural Rubbers on Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Natural Rubber/Carbon Nanotubes Composites

This study investigates the augmentation of electrical and mechanical characteristics of natural rubber (NR) film with different forms by integrating carbon nanotubes (CNTs). NR with different forms (i.e., natural rubber grafted with polystyrene (NR–g–PS) and polybutyl methacrylate (NR–g–PBMA)) were successfully synthesized. The success of these grafting was confirmed through Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H–NMR) and Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR–FTIR) analyses, which showed that the grafting efficiency exceeded 90%. The properties of ungrafted NR and grafted NRs with CNTs were compared and analyzed. It was found that the NR/CNTs composites with grafting displayed significantly improved electrical properties and mechanical strength when compared to the NR/CNTs composites without grafting. It was found that the NR–g–PBMA exhibited an 860% increase in electrical conductivity at 100 kHz compared to ungrafted NR. This might be attributed to the synergistic of the high specific surface of CNTs and the high polarization of functional groups, which gave a higher value for the CNTs filled grafted NR than the ungrafted NR. Moreover, the mechanical properties of NR–g–PS composites showed a 114% increase in 100% modulus, 127% in tensile strength, and 37% in hardness, while the NR–g–PBMA composites exhibited a 159% increase in 100% modulus, 95% in tensile strength, and 34% in hardness compared to ungrafted NR. This enhancement can be attributed to the formation of chemical linkages between the grafted NR matrix and CNTs through functional groups from both. Consequently, it can be concluded that introducing functional groups on grafted NR assists in establishing a crosslinking network, enhancing both the mechanical and electrical properties. Additionally, this research emphasizes the benefits of producing flexible conductive materials with high modulus and enhanced electrical properties. Keywords: Natural rubber latex, Graft copolymerization, Glutaraldehyde, Natural rubber composites, Electrical properties

Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Oxya chinensis sinuosa (Grasshopper) Extract.

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using a green method from an extract of the edible insect Oxya chinensis sinuosa (O_extract). The formation of AgNPs (O_AgNPs) was confirmed via UV-vis spectroscopy, and their stability was assessed using Turbiscan analysis. The size and morphology of the synthesized particles were characterized using transmission electron microscopy and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. Dynamic light scattering and zeta potential analyses further confirmed the size distribution and dispersion stability of the particles. The average particle size was 111.8 ± 1.5 nm, indicating relatively high stability. The synthesized O_AgNPs were further characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. XPS analysis confirmed the chemical composition of the O_AgNP surface, whereas HR-XRD confirmed its crystallinity. FTIR analysis suggested that the O_extract plays a crucial role in the synthesis process. The antibacterial activity of the O_AgNPs was demonstrated using a disk diffusion assay, which revealed effective activity against common foodborne pathogens, including Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus. O_AgNPs exhibited clear antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of 15.08 ± 0.45 mm for S. Typhimurium, 15.03 ± 0.15 mm for E. coli, 15.24 ± 0.66 mm for S. aureus, and 13.30 ± 0.16 mm for B. cereus. These findings suggest that the O_AgNPs synthesized from the O_extract have potential for use as antibacterial agents against foodborne bacteria.

Environmental Degradation Study of Polypropylene Films Incorporating Pro-Oxidants: Comprehensive Analysis and Ecotoxicological Assessment

Our research described in this paper investigated the environmental degradation of polypropylene (PP) films incorporating pro-oxidants and assessed their impact on the ecosystem. Weathering aging effects were monitored through Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis, revealing significant changes in carbonyl, hydroxyl and amorphous regions post-aging. The presence of pro-oxidants intensified these changes, indicating higher oxidation levels. Contact angle measurements demonstrated decreased hydrophobicity upon aging, particularly pronounced in pro-oxidant-containing films (initial contact angle: 87.79° for PP/1% Co/1% Fe, sample (F6) decreased to 79.24° after aging). Differential Scanning Calorimetric (DSC) analysis revealed decreased melting temperatures (initial Tm: 159.5 °C for F6 decreased to 148 °C after aging) and the crystallinity post-aging (initial χ: 73.25% for F6 decreased to 60.17% after aging), suggesting increased susceptibility to degradation. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) showed decreased thermal stability after aging, especially in PP/pro-oxidant films; the Tonset (T5); 432.00 °C for F6, decreased to 268.00 °C after aging; where Tonset is the temperature corresponding to 5% weight loss. Biodegradation tests indicated enhanced biodegradability in the pro-oxidant-containing films, with cobalt and ferrous stearate mixtures showing the highest degradation degrees (e.g., PP/1% Co/1% Fe: ≈ 77% biodegradation after 140 days). Ecotoxicological evaluations, including microbial toxicity and plant germination and growth tests, revealed no inhibitory effects of the degradation products on soil flora or plant growth, confirming their nontoxic nature. Overall, we believe this comprehensive study provides insights into the environmental fate of PP films with pro-oxidants, highlighting their potential for accelerated degradation without adverse ecological impacts.

Characterization of three-dimensional printed hydroxyapatite/collagen composite slurry

Nowadays, biomaterial composites for bone tissue engineering are developing rapidly. Many research studies have been done on hydroxyapatite (HA) and collagen because these materials are biomimetic and can be used in human bones. This study aimed to characterize a three-dimensional (3D) printed hydroxyapatite/collagen composite slurry material with a ratio of 99.84 % (w/v) and 0.16 % (w/v). The composite material was printed using 3D printing with a print speed of 10 mm/min and a layer height of 0.5 mm. Characterization layers were investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM showed the occurrence of overlapping between layers, which was investigated by the reduction in layer dimensions after printing (layer size 432 μm). Moreover, there were no boundaries between layers; the connection between layers occurred, and porosity and the rough surface were presented. FTIR analyses showed spectrum peaks at 559.36, 628.79, 1022.27, 1562.34, and 1639.49 cm−1 which was confirmed as hydroxyapatite and amide (indicates the presence of spectrum collagen). The XRD pattern peaks show the crystallinity of HA/collagen composite (41 %) and HA (42 %). The Ca/P ratio of the material composite was 1.77. The ratio was osteoconductive, and this characteristic was the main requirement for bone grafts. From TGA, the weight loss occurred between temperatures of 25 °C and 1000 °C with three stages: water absorption (1.844 %), removal of organic content (2.854 %), and decomposition of inorganic compounds (3.517 %).

In vitro cytotoxicity assessment of biosynthesized Apis mellifera bee venom nanoparticles (BVNPs) against MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines

In this work, we reported the synthesis of honey bee (Apis mellifera) venom-derived nanoparticles via a hydrothermal method. This method not only ensures the preservation of the bee venom’s bioactive components but also enhances their potential stability, thus broadening the scope for their applications in the biomedicinal field. The synthesis method started with the homogenization suspension of bee venom, followed by its hydrothermal process to synthesize bee venom nanoparticles (BVNPs). The successful synthesis of BVNPs was characterized using various characteristic techniques such as Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier Transforms Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Zeta Potential (ZP), Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The synthesis of BVNPs through biosynthesis is shown by the visible violet-brown color development at 347 nm by UV–Vis spectroscopy. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of several functional groups in the BVNPs, including alcohols (–OH), phenols (C6H5–), carboxylic acids (–COOH), amines (–NH2, –NH–), aldehydes (–CHO), ketones (–CO–), nitriles (–CN), amides (–CO–N–), imines (–CNH–), esters (–COO–), and polysaccharides. These functional groups, as confirmed by their specific stretching and bending vibrational modes, contribute to the diverse biological activities of BVNPs, including cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The ZP of the BVNPs indicated good colloidal stability at − 45 mV. LCMS analysis confirmed the presence of major bioactive molecules, including melittin & apamin and TEM analysis shows the BVNPs exhibited a quasi-spherical shape with good dispersion, the average size was approximately 25 nm, with some being smaller (quantum dots) and interplanar spacing of 0.236 nm indicated a highly ordered crystalline structure. Moreover, the anticancer efficacy of the BVNPs was ascertained through in vitro assays against MCF-7 breast cancer cells, showing a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect. The findings of this study underscore the viability of hydrothermal synthesis in producing biologically active and structurally stable BVNPs, with a significant potential for anticancer activities.Graphical

Antifungal activity of poly(lactic acid) nanofibers containing the essential oil from Corymbia citriodora Hook or the monoterpenes β-citronellol and citronellal against mycotoxigenic fungi.

Food contamination by mycotoxigenic fungi is one of the principal factors that cause food loss and economic losses in the food industry. The objective of this work was to incorporate the essential oil from Corymbia citriodora Hook and its constituents citronellal and β-citronellol into poly(lactic acid) nanofibers; to characterize the nanofibers by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); to evaluate the antifungal activity by the fumigation method; to evaluate the antimycotoxigenic activity against Aspergillus carbonarius, Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus westerdijkiae, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus; and to evaluate the morphology of these microorganisms. All the nanofibers had a regular, smooth and continuous morphology. FTIR analyses confirmed that the active ingredients were incorporated into the polymer matrix. All samples exhibited antifungal and ochratoxigenic inhibitory activities of up to 100% and 99%, respectively, with the best results observed for (PLA + 30 wt% β-citronellol) nanofibers and (PLA + 30 wt% citronellal) nanofibers. However, 100% inhibition of the production of aflatoxin B1 and B2 was not observed. The images obtained by SEM indicated that the nanofibers caused damage to the hyphae, caused a decrease in the production of spores, and caused deformation, rupture and non-formation of the conid head, might be an alternative for the control of mycotoxigenic fungi.

Extraction of flavonoid dyes from vine tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata) waste and application in bleached pulp dyeing

AbstractNatural dyes are receiving more attention due to wide and renewable resources and their functionalities. This study delved into the optimal conditions for extracting Ampelopsis grossedentata flavonoid dyes (AGFDs) from vine tea waste, resulting in a dye sample with a total flavonoid extraction percentage of 27.4 %. Ultraviolet (UV), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis revealed the presence of 18 flavonoids in AGFD. Additionally, various factors, including pH, light exposure, temperature, metal ions, and redox agents were found to impact the stability of AGFD. Moreover, the dyeing performance of AGFD for the bleached chemical pulp was investigated. Under optimal conditions, the AGFD‐dyed pulp displayed a vibrant yellow hue and excellent colour fastness when using aluminum potassium sulphate dodecahydrate (KAl(SO4)2·12H2O) as a mordant with a dyeing uptake level up to 88 %. FTIR and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated that AGFD chemically bound to the pulp fibre. Remarkably, the hand sheet made from the AGFD‐dyed pulp exhibited thermal stability, physical strength properties and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, the peroxide value of cheese packaged with the AGFD‐dyed pulp hand sheet was only 43 % of that of the undyed one, indicating its good antioxidant properties. This study highlights the promising potential of AGFD in the production of functional coloured paper.

Synthesis and Evaluation of amyloid beta peptide/ Ruthenium III -based complex drugs as drug delivery and anticancer activity

The development and characterization of anticancer complex drugs (ACD), specifically Amyloid Beta Peptide (ABP) - Ruthenium III (Ru III) - nivolumab (NB), were explored through analytical techniques. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy demonstrated the structural transformation of peptides from α-helical to β-sheet formations, aligning with amyloid fibril aggregation. Ruthenium (III) complex synthesis was confirmed through distinct absorption peaks in FTIR analysis. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) revealed the fibrous and smooth morphology of ACD, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the decomposition stages and stability of the ruthenium complexes. The encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release profile of nivolumab (NB) within ABP-RuIII-NB were investigated, showing a two-phase release over 40h. Cytotoxicity studies using acridine orange and ethidium bromide staining techniques indicated significant apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) -treated cells. These findings highlight the potential of ABP-RuIII-NB as an effective cancer treatment with controlled drug release and high cytotoxicity against cancer cells.

Synthesis and characterization of a crosslinked deacetylated chitin modified chicken bone waste-derived hydroxyapatite and TiO2 biocomposite for defluoridation of drinking water

This work represents an innovative approach to the synthesis and characterization of a chitosan-based biocomposite for fluoride adsorption. The work involved the development of a biocomposite based on modified chicken bone waste-derived hydroxyapatite and TiO2. The composite was characterized using scanning electron microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared analysis (FTIR), thermal-gravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The optimum parameters for fluoride removal were determined, and the kinetic data was better fitted to the pseudo-first-order model. The Liu equations provided a better description of the experimental adsorption isotherm data. The adsorption mechanism and the interaction of the composite with fluoride were better understood using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and Non-Covalent Interactions (NCI) analyses, paving the way for more effective and efficient defluoridation methods.

Antibacterial and wound healing activity of non-thermal plasma treated and MXene (Ti3C2TX)/ WO3 coated cotton fabrics

In this study, MXene (Ti3C2Tx)/WO3 nanocomposite was directly deposited on the surface of non-thermal plasma treated cotton fabrics. Initially, argon was used as a plasma forming gas to treat the surface of cotton fabrics. Subsequently, the MXene (Ti3C2Tx)/WO3 nanocomposite was deposited on the surface of non-thermal plasma treated cotton fabrics by co-precipitation method. As prepared cotton fabrics were characterized by various characterization techniques that includes, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, and Contact Angle (CA) measurement. SEM and FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of MXene (Ti3C2Tx)/WO3 nanocomposite on the surface of cotton fabrics. In addition, contact angle analysis unveiled the super hydrophilic nature of cotton fabrics after surface modification. The antibacterial activity and the wound healing assay of the untreated and surface modified cotton fabrics were examined by in vitro analysis. Results unveiled that the surface modified cotton fabrics showed excellent antibacterial activity against gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) and gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and substantial wound healing activity. From this investigation it is inferred that plasma treated and nanocomposite functionalised cotton fabrics have the potential to be employed as wound dressing material.

EFFECTS OF SYNTHESIS TEMPERATURE ON THE STRUCTURAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+NANOPARTICLES

Calcium aluminate phosphor nanomaterials co-doped with europium and dysprosium (CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+) were prepared using a facile solution combustion technique. The structural and optical properties were investigated. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed the presence of the monoclinic phase in all the samples, with few impurity phases in the samples synthesized at 300°C and 400°C. The Fourier-transform infrared analysis gave the expected chemical combustion results of the final product with few traces of Ca3Al2O6 impurities at low and very high synthesis temperatures. The XRD patterns displayed diffraction angles of the major peaks shifting to higher 2 theta as the synthesis temperature increased. This is attributed to an increase in particle sizes, which led to an increase in lattice parameters. The intensity of the prominent peak increased up to 500°C due to improved crystal quality. The crystallite sizes of the as-prepared samples were determined using the Debye-Scherrer equation. It was noted that there is variation in the crystallite sizes with synthesis temperature. The UV-Vis graph shows that absorption edges also shifted to lower wavelengths with an increase in synthesis temperature. It was noted that the band gap increased with an increase in synthesis temperature up to 500°C, but at temperature of 1000°C, the band gap was observed todecrease. Scanning electron microscope micrographs showed that the samples had irregular shapes with pores and cracks. The study provides a simple route to synthesize CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+ phosphors with optimum synthesis temperature, producing the most crystalline sample for use in lighting devices.

Chemical and Green Synthesis, Characterization, Electrical and Antimicrobial Activity of ZrO2 Nanoparticles

ZrO2 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a chemical and green synthesis method. Their structural, morphological, optical, anti microbial and electrochemical properties were characterized. The green and chemical synthesis of ZrO2 was achieved by using the ethanolic extract and NaOH as reagents. XRD analysis confirmed the ZrO2 nanoparticles' tetragonal crystal phase. The surface morphological properties under the phases of nucleation, growth and aggregation as well as elementary composition were confirmed by SEM and EDS. The Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) analysis was used to investigate into the functional groups that were present in the molecules of the synthesized nanomaterials. The presence of zirconium oxide nanoparticles with an optical band gap value between 4.73 and 5.48 eV was confirmed by the absorption spectra at 226-232 nm Antimicrobial studies showed that ZrO2 nanoparticles had bactericidal activity at a dose of 10 g/mL against Proteus vulgaris, Eschericia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. The overall results of this study showed that ZrO2 NPs with excellent bioremediation and antibacterial characteristics were formed. The electrochemical behavior of both ZrO2 nano particles was examined using cyclic voltammetry studies were observed. The maximum enhanced specific capacitance value at a 10 mV/s scan rate.

Magnetic BiFeO3 nanoparticles: a robust and efficient nanocatalyst for the green one-pot three-component synthesis of highly substituted 3,4-dihydropyrimidine-2(1H)-one/thione derivatives.

In this research, magnetic bismuth ferrite nanoparticles (BFO MNPs) were prepared through a convenient method and characterized. The structure and morphological characteristics of the prepared nanomaterial were confirmed through analyses using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), elemental mapping, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) techniques. The obtained magnetic BFO nanomaterial was investigated, as a heterogeneous Lewis acid, in three component synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2 (1H)-ones/thiones (DHPMs/DHPMTs). It was found that the BFO MNPs exhibit remarkable efficacy in the synthesis of various DHPMs as well as their thione analogues. It is noteworthy that this research features low catalyst loading, good to excellent yields, environmentally friendly conditions, short reaction time, simple and straightforward work-up, and the reusability of the catalyst, distinguishing it from other recently reported protocols. Additionally, the structure of the DHPMs/DHPMTs was confirmed through 1H NMR, FTIR, and melting point analyses. This environmentally-benign methodology demonstrates the potential of the catalyst for more sustainable and efficient practices in green chemistry.

Study on preparation and performance of bagasse/sodium carboxymethyl cellulose gel for inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion

In order to effectively prevent and control coal spontaneous combustion and improve the safety of coal mining, bagasse carboxymethy cellulose (BCC) prepared from bagasse (BS) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were used as the substrates. A gel (BCC-CMC) for inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion was prepared using a chemical crosslinking method involving zirconium citrate crosslinking and glucono-delta-lactone (GDL) modification. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were utilized to characterize both the crystal and molecular structure of bagasse and its derived bagasse carboxymethyl cellulose. The results indicated that new carboxymethyl groups were introduced into bagasse during the treatment, facilitating the successful extraction and preparation of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. The results of viscosity and bonding tests demonstrated that the concentration and dosage of CMC had the most significant influence on the gel viscosity, which remained higher and more stable at room temperature. The coal bonded by the gel coal mixture can effectively seal surface cracks, with a bonding degree of up to 70.72 %. TG-DTG, temperature-programmed oxidation experiment and FTIR analyses revealed that, compared to raw coal, coal samples treated with gel exhibited improved stability, fewer active groups, and fewer oxygen-containing functional groups, effectively inhibiting coal’s low temperature oxidation and reducing the risk of spontaneous combustion. The gel is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and exhibits good flame retardant properties. This study is of great significance for preventing and controlling coal spontaneous combustion, effectively ensuring the safe production of coal resources and the safety of mine workers, achieving the green sustainable development of the mine.

Characterisation Analysis of Sulphur and Phosphorous Doped and Co-doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4) Materials

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is tailored with doping of different non-metals (Sulphur and Phosphorus). For synthesis through thermal condensation method, the mixtures of urea and dopant with diverse concentrations have been added for preparation of materials. The basic effect of doping and its concentration on the structural morphology and absorption spectra of the samples is investigated in detail. Pure g-C3N4 suffers from high recombination rate of photogenerated electron-hole pairs resulting in low photocatalytic activity. Different techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) have been used for the characterization. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the formation of the g-C3N4 structure and SEM images reveal crumpled sheets and irregular plate like shapes of the doped graphitic nitride samples. FTIR analysis identify the presence of surface amino (N-H) and water (O-H) groups, cyano terminal group (C≡N), (C≡C), C–N) and (C=N) bonds and breathing mode of the tri-s-triazine units in the samples. PL spectra shows that the sulphur and phosphorus co-doped PSGCN (8 wt.%) sample is better for photocatalytic activity.

Compositional dependence of electrochemical properties in biopolymer blend-based solid electrolytes doped with sodium perchlorate for EDLC applications

Biopolymer-based blends of solid electrolytes capable of conducting sodium ions were prepared via solution casting by incorporating sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with varying concentrations of sodium perchlorate monohydrate (NaClO4.H2O), which was used as the dopant. The prepared electrolytes were characterized to reveal their structural, vibrational, electrical, and electrochemical properties that make them promising as solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the amorphous nature of the sample increased with the addition of NaClO4.H2O salt concentrations of up to 30 wt.%. The complexation between the polymers and salt was confirmed by Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis. The SPE exhibited an optimal ionic conductivity of (1.90 ± 0.05) ×10−5 S cm−1, which is three orders higher than that of the pristine polymer blend with (5.31 ± 0.61) ×10−8 S cm−1, as determined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis. Scaling studies conducted based on AC conductivity and tangent loss revealed that these measurements could be represented by a single master curve, which suggests that the optimal sample adheres to the time-temperature superposition principle (TTSP). The temperature dependence of Jonscher's exponent indicates that the conduction mechanism can be effectively represented by the Quantum Mechanical Tunneling model (QMT). Both transference number measurement (TNM) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) analyses validated the electrolyte's suitability for energy device applications by demonstrating its high ion transference number and electrochemical potential window of 3.93 V. The optimized SPE film was subsequently utilized in an electrochemical double-layer capacitor (EDLC) device to evaluate its performance as both an electrolyte and separator. The supercapacitor exhibited an impressive energy density of 15.18 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 4512.5 W kg−1, along with remarkable stability in terms of cycle life.

Acrylated epoxidized natural rubber/functionalized organoclay hybrid networks: In‐situ production and characterization study

AbstractThis study is dedicated to the fabrication of acrylated epoxidized natural rubber (AENR)/dual‐functionalized organoclay (DF‐C30B) hybrid networks using an in‐situ light‐induced crosslinking polymerization technique. The process begins with the successful synthesis of DF‐C30B, which contains methacrylate groups, achieved by reacting 3‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) with cloisite 30B (C30B). During fabrication, DF‐C30B nanolayers are dispersed within the AENR matrix at various feed ratios, ranging from 1 to 8 parts per hundred of rubber (phr). The photocrosslinking polymerization is then initiated using 2,2‐dimethoxy‐2‐phenylacetophenone (DMPA) as the photoinitiating agent. Subsequent analysis of the nanocomposites involves evaluating their structure and morphology using established techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The FTIR analysis enables comparing distinct bands of the nanocomposite's components, affirming the integration and covalent attachment of nanoclay in the AENR matrix. Results from TEM and XRD illustrate the uniform distribution of DF‐C30B throughout the AENR matrix without significant agglomeration. TGA results indicate that the hybrid networks exhibit enhanced thermal stability, with degradation onset temperatures of 306°C, 308°C, 315°C, and 318°C for DF‐C30B loadings of 1, 2, 4, and 8 phr, respectively, compared to 198°C for pure AENR. Correspondingly, char residue levels increased to 4.3%, 5.6%, 7.8%, and 11.7% for the respective DF‐C30B contents. This research underscores the promising role of DF‐C30B as a strengthening component in nanocomposites based on NR, contributing to improved thermal endurance, enhanced uniformity, and offering insightful directions for future advancements.Highlights Fabricated acrylated epoxidized natural rubber (AENR)/dual‐functionalized organoclay (DF‐C30B) hybrid networks via light‐induced crosslinking polymerization. Enhanced compatibility and performance of DF‐C30B within the AENR matrix. Successful integration and stability confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Uniform dispersion of DF‐C30B within the matrix demonstrated by XRD and TEM. Improved thermal stability compared to neat AENR, as evidenced by TGA results.