Fourier Transform Infrared Analysis Research Articles

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.

Temperature-Based Extraction, Characterization by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Prospective Antibacterial Properties of Eri (Philosamia ricini) Pupal Oil.

Lepidopteran insects are novel source of omega-3 fatty acids as revealed by the studies recently. In the current study, we assessed the effects of four different drying temperatures (50, 60, 70, and80 ºC) of eri silkworm (Philosamia ricini) pupal oil (EPO)abbreviated asEPO50, 60, 70, and 80 followed by conducting the characterization and antibacterial efficacy studies. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) were used for chemical profiling of EPOs. The agar-well diffusion method was performed to evaluate the antibacterial activities. The trend of this study clearly revealed that enhanced drying percentage of temperatures showed raising saturated fats and reduced unsaturated fats. However, the best suitable temperature was found at 60 ºC with high unsaturated fatty acids, including Omega-3. Further, at higher temperature, FTIR analysis revealed an increasing complexity of functional groups with potential bioactive compounds. EPOs were found to have significant antibacterial activity against S. typhi and S. aureus at all tested (10, 20, 30, and 40 µL) volumes used in the study.

Crystallographic, macromolecular, thermal, and mechanical properties of Bambusa balcooa fibers: effect of two-step chemical modification

AbstractNatural fibers (NFs) are becoming more and more interesting to research, because of their numerous benefits, sensitivity, biodegradability, and capacity to provide sustainable products that encourage technological innovation and a variety of industrial applications. In this study, a two-step treatment approach was adopted to chemically modify NF obtained from Bambusa balcooa. First ethanol (C2H6O) was utilized for pre-treatment, followed by potassium permanganate (KMnO4)-acetone solution at different concentration and treatment durations. The influence of this modification on the crystallographic, thermal, macromolecular, morphological, and mechanical properties of the B. balcooa fibers (BFs) were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical characterization using both treated and untreated BF. The XRD analysis revealed notable alterations in the crystalline properties of the fiber. FTIR analysis confirmed that wax, hemicellulose, and lignin had been partially eliminated. The findings of the TGA investigation showed that the modified BF could be processed with polymers at low temperatures. Under ideal circumstances, the treated single BF tensile strength increased, and SEM morphology indicated that uniform surface roughness had been attained. This study demonstrated that two-step treatment of BF has the prospective of been used as reinforcement in a range of bio-composites for certain industrial and innovative uses under the right treatment conditions.

RSM-based co-gasification of palm oil decanter cake and sugarcane bagasse: Syngas production and biochar characteristics

The production of syngas (CO + H2) and biochar from biomass waste co-gasification promotes sustainable energy while addressing environmental remediation challenges. This study investigates the co-gasification of palm oil decanter cake (PODC) and sugarcane bagasse (SB) to optimize syngas production and obtain biochar in a fixed bed horizontal tube furnace reactor. Operating variables, including temperature (700–900 °C), biomass ratio (30–70 wt%), and particle size (0.25–2 mm), were optimized using Response Surface Methodology with the Box-Behnken design. Characterization analyses including Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopic (FESEM) analyses were conducted on the biochar. The optimal conditions yielded a syngas volume of 41.5 vol% and a biochar of 0.3 wt%, achieved at 900 °C temperature, 42 wt% PODC biomass ratio, and 2 mm particle size. BET analysis revealed a mesoporous structure biochar with surface area of 398.55 m2/g, pore volume of 0.13 cm3/g, and pore diameter of 6.49 nm. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of hydroxyl groups, carbonyl groups, aromatic compounds, and hydrocarbon structures. FESEM analysis showed well-defined pore structures on the biochar surface, with EDX analysis confirming a dominant carbon content of 83.32 wt%. These findings substantially enhance sustainable approaches in energy production, agriculture, and wastewater treatment, while effectively tackling environmental issues associated with biomass waste.

Plasma Deposition of Parylene-like Films with Chemical Functional Groups for Immunoassays.

Parylene-like films obtained via the plasma decomposition of parylene precursors with functional groups (amino and formyl) are proposed as an alternative to those obtained via the thermal method. To analyze the chemical functional groups after plasma deposition, a surface analysis of the parylene films using the two different deposition methods was performed via Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The FT-IR analysis revealed that the featured peaks of the chemical functional groups were maintained in the parylene-like films obtained via the plasma deposition method. The XPS analysis revealed that the featured chemical functional groups of parylene-AM and parylene-H were maintained after plasma deposition. The surface energy of the parylene films was estimated by using contact angle measurements. The plasma-deposited parylene films were then employed for protein immobilization via the functional groups using horseradish peroxidase (44 kDa) and green fluorescent protein (25 kDa) as model proteins. The parylene-AM and parylene-H films obtained via plasma deposition exhibited higher immobilization efficiencies than did the same parylene films obtained via thermal deposition. Finally, a competitive immunoassay was obtained by immobilizing the Fv-antibodies on plasma-deposited parylene-AM and parylene-H films via covalent bonding. Using heat-deactivated SARS-CoV-2 as a real sample, the limit of detection at the feasible level for the medical diagnosis of COVID-19 was achieved using a competitive immunoassay based on immobilized Fv-antibodies on plasma-deposited parylene films.

Crotalaria madurensis flavonol glycosides’ antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are prevalent in hospitals and often lead to significant health complications. This study aimed to explore the chemical composition of the aerial part of Crotalaria madurensis and evaluate its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The impact of gamma irradiation on the antibacterial properties of the plant extract and metabolite 1 against MRSA was also examined. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was conducted on the filtrates of untreated MRSA and MRSA treated with the plant extract and metabolite 1. Four flavonol glycosides were identified as gossypetin 8-methoxy, 3-O-β-D-xylopyranoside (metabolite 1), gossypetin 8-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (metabolite 2), kaempferol 3-O-β-D-glucpyranoside (Astragalin, metabolite 3), and herbacetin 7-methoxy-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (metabolite 4). All metabolites exhibited significant antioxidant properties using different assays. The antibacterial efficacy of the extract and metabolite 1, which showed substantial antioxidant properties compared to the other isolated metabolites, was evaluated. Both the plant extract and metabolite 1 significantly reduced the viability and cell count of MRSA at concentrations of 1.0 and 0.5 mg/ml. The antibacterial activity of the plant extract and metabolite 1 was assessed after gamma irradiation at 50 and 100 Gy, which did not significantly affect the antibacterial efficiency. FTIR analysis indicated that the plant extract and metabolite 1 significantly altered the band frequency values, bandwidth, and peak intensity % of the treated MRSA filtrate. Molecular docking studies suggested that metabolite 1 exhibited the highest antioxidant and anti-MRSA activity, with strong binding scores like the ligand, indicating an effective interaction and high affinity between metabolite 1 and the target molecule.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis of Potential α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Terminalia catappa Leaf Extracts

Aims: Postprandial hyperglyceamia is often caused by insulin insufficiency or cellular glucose uptake complications, and conventional treatments often yield undesirable side effects. The aim of the current work was to assess the α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of T. catappa leaf extracts and use spectroscopic techniques to partially characterize possible inhibitors. Study Design: Phytochemical screening, enzyme inhibition assay and spectrometric and spectroscopic characterization of bioactive compounds from leaf extract and fractions of T. catappa. Place and Duration of Study: The entire work was carried out at the Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, University for Development Studies, Ghana within nine months. Methodology: T. catappa leaf extract and fractions were qualitatively screened for phytochemicals and their biological activity assessed in α-glucosidase inhibition assay. The potential enzyme inhibitors were characterized by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy. Results: Phytochemical screening of the extract and the various solvent fractions revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, flavanol glycosides, phenolics, and terpenoids. The α-glucosidase inhibition potential of the crude leaf extract was concentration-dependent with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 337.5 µg/ml. Solvent fractions from the crude extract demonstrated α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values ranging from 170.40 µg/ml for ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction to 71.90 µg/ml for n-hexane (n-Hex) fraction. Acarbose, the control drug, demonstrated significant α-glucosidase inhibition activity in a similar pattern with IC50 of 6.16 µg/ml. The enzyme inhibition kinetics parameters, specifically the Michaelis constant (KM) and Maximum reaction velocity (Vmax) values, suggested that the inhibition of α-glucosidase by T. catappa extract followed a competitive mode. GC-MS and FT-IR analysis of the n-Hexane fraction identified the compounds Eugenol, Urs-12-en-24-oic acid, 3-oxo-, methyl ester (+)-, phytol, trans-isoeugenol, α-amyrin, and squalene as the potential antidiabetic agents that might be responsible for reducing postprandial blood glucose levels. Conclusion: These findings show that T. catappa leaf extract contains α-glucosidase inhibitors and therefore serves as a valuable resource in the discovery of natural anti-diabetic agents.

Phytochemical characterization and therapeutic potential of leaf of Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC.: A comprehensive study on functional groups and bioactive compounds.

BackgroundEmilia sonchifolia (L.) DC is an annual herbaceous plant used in the Ayurveda and Unani therapeutic systems. It treats various conditions such as diarrhea, sore throat, night blindness, rashes, fever, measles, earache, eye inflammation, ophthalmia, asthma, malaria, stomach tumors, chest pain, liver diseases, cuts, and wounds. PurposeThis study aimed to assess the functional groups and bioactive compounds present in the leaves of E. sonchifolia using FT-IR and GC-MS analyses and explore their antioxidant, antidiabetic and anticancer effects. Materials and methodsDifferent leaf extracts of E. sonchifolia were subjected to Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses to determine the presence of functional groups and for chemical characterization. Biological evaluations such as antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS assays) and antidiabetic (α-amylase enzyme inhibition and glucose uptake using yeast cell assays) and anticancer (HepG2 cell lines) potentials were also analyzed. ResultsFT-IR analysis revealed the presence of various functional groups such as amines, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, halo compounds, aldehydes, sulfates, esters, phenols, and carboxylic acids. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 32 bioactive compounds in different leaf extracts. Among the extracts, petroleum ether (16) contained the highest number of chemical compounds, followed by ethanol (14), chloroform (9), and acetone (4). Lanosterol was the most significant compound in petroleum ether extract, whereas phytol (44.05 %) in the acetone extract and 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid in the chloroform (82.47 %) and ethanol (50.49 %) extracts. The ethanol leaf extract showed the highest antioxidant potential in DPPH (63.38±0.46 µg/mL) and ABTS (60.74±0.59 µg/mL) assays. It also showed better results in antidiabetic activity in both α-amylase enzyme inhibition (135.69±2.08 µg/mL) and glucose uptake using yeast cell (114.37±1.71 µg/mL) assays. Ethanol leaf extract exhibits good anticancer activity with 59.52±0.76 µg/mL against HepG2 cell line. ConclusionFTIR and GC-MS analyses confirmed the presence of bioactive functional groups and phytoconstituents. These results justify the leaves as a traditional remedy in Ayurveda and Unani therapeutic systems. Antioxidant, antidiabetic and anticancer assays suggested that E. sonchifolia leaves have good antioxidant, antidiabetic and anticancer potential compared to standards. Further studies are required to identify the chemical compounds responsible for these activities.

Enhanced optical and electrical properties of PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites for optoelectronic applications

In this study, we synthesized titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) via the sol-gel process and incorporated them into a polymer blend of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) to form PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites. The TiO2 NPs were integrated into the polymer matrix using the casting method at varying concentrations (1, 2, and 3 wt%). The structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties of the prepared TiO2 and nanocomposite films were thoroughly characterized using techniques such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). TEM analysis revealed predominantly spherical TiO2 NPs with an average particle size of 15 nm. XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of TiO2 NPs and their interaction with the polymer chains, leading to modifications in the crystalline structure and chemical bonding of the nanocomposites. UV–Vis spectroscopy demonstrated a redshift in the absorption edge and increased absorbance with higher TiO₂ content, indicating enhanced optical properties. The indirect optical bandgap was observed to decrease from 4.19 eV to 2.21 eV as the TiO2 concentration increased, enhancing the material's photoresponsiveness. Additionally, the refractive index increased from 2.11 to 2.91, further supporting the potential for optical applications. EIS results showed a decrease in bulk resistance with increasing TiO2 concentration, suggesting improved electrical conductivity. These findings highlight the potential of PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites for optoelectronic applications, where enhanced optical properties, such as improved light absorption, higher refractive index, and improved charge transport, are critical for device performance. The study offers an understanding of the PEO/PMMA/TiO2 nanocomposites, laying a foundation for future research in their applications in optoelectronic devices.

Mitigating Health Risks Through Biosorption: Effective Removal of Nickel (II) and Chromium (VI) from Water with Acid-Treated Potato Peels

Introduction: Nickel (Ni(II)) and chromium (Cr(VI)) are associated with serious health risks, including respiratory problems, kidney damage, and cancer, along with potential threats to ecosystems. Given their persistence and significant toxicity, effective removal from contaminated water is essential to mitigate these health risks. This study explores the efficacy of acid-treated potato peels (ATPP) as an economical and readily accessible biosorbent for the removal of Ni(II) and Cr(VI) from water solutions. Methods: The study explored two biosorbents: raw potato peels (RPP) and ATPP. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was utilized to analyze changes in surface functional groups. Batch biosorption experiments were performed using distinct contact times (30-180min), pH (3–11), and biosorbent dosages (0.1–0.5 g). The Mann-Whitney U test was applied for the statistical analysis. Results and Discussion: The FTIR analysis indicated an enhancement in carboxyl groups on the ATPP surface after acid treatment, with stronger transmittance peak at 1645 cm⁻¹. ATPP showed significant improvements in biosorption capacity compared to RPP, removing 18.23% of 10 mg/L Ni(II) at pH 5 in 120minutes using 0.5 g of ATPP. For Cr(VI), 52.28% removal was achieved at pH 7 with 0.2 g of ATPP within the same time frame. Statistical analysis confirmed the superior performance of ATPP in removing Ni(II) (p = 0.024) and Cr(VI) (p = 0.004). Conclusion: ATPP offers significantly higher biosorption capabilities than RPP attributed to the increased presence of carboxyl groups on the modified surface, indicating potential for eco-friendly effective material in mitigating the heavy metal pollution's health risks.

Studying the Antimicrobial Effects of Silver Nanoparticles Coated with Alginate Biosynthesized by Dulcicalothrix alborzica

Introduction: Nowadays, Cyanobacteria are one of the important candidates in the green biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Considering the detrimental effects of chemically synthesized nanoparticles, the aim of this study was the biosynthesis and antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles by aquatic cyanobacterium. Methods: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized using three different approaches: wet biomass, boiling, and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS). Alginate coating was employed to enhance the nanoparticles' stability. Characterization of the nanoparticles was performed using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and zeta potential measurements. The antimicrobial properties of the nanoparticles were evaluated against fish pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Statistical analyzes were performed with SPSS version 16 software, and the significant difference between the means was performed with one-way analysis of variance with 95% confidence limits and Tukey's test, and the results were drawn as a graph with Excel software. Results: The UV-vis spectroscopy results confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs in all three methods. FTIR analysis revealed similar spectra for all three methods, indicating comparable purity and production of similar compounds. Electron microscope images showed the sphericity of nanoparticles prepared by boiling method, and the average diameter of uncoated and alginate coated nanoparticles was 38 and 180.04 nm, respectively. Zeta potential analysis indicated a positive surface charge on the nanoparticles. The highest zone of inhibition was observed for AgNPs synthesized by the boiling method and coated with alginate. Similar results were obtained for the antifungal activity, with Saprolegnia exhibiting higher sensitivity to the synthesized nanoparticles compared to the other species studied. Conclusion: The novel strain Dulcicalothrix alborzica demonstrated potential as a potent producer of AgNPs with unique properties and promising applications in microbial biotechnology.

Follow the Path: Unveiling an Azole Resistant Candida parapsilosis Outbreak by FTIR Spectroscopy and STR Analysis.

Accurate identification and rapid genotyping of Candida parapsilosis, a significant opportunistic pathogen in healthcare settings, is crucial for managing outbreaks, timely intervention, and effective infection control measures. This study includes 24 clinical samples and 2 positive environmental surveillance swabs collected during a fluconazole-resistant Candida parapsilosis outbreak at the Tuscany Rehabilitation Clinic (Clinica di Riabilitazione Toscana, CRT), located in the province of Arezzo, Italy. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, genetic sequencing of the ERG11 gene, and short tandem repeat (STR) analysis was applied to track the fluconazole-resistant C. parapsilosis outbreak at the CRT facility. FTIR analysis clustered the isolates into two major groups, correlating with resistance-associated ERG11 mutations (Y132F and R398I), azole resistance levels, and year of isolation. The combined use of FTIR spectroscopy and STR typing provided a comprehensive approach to identify and track fluconazole-resistant C. parapsilosis isolates, which identified specific clusters of genetically similar isolates. By comparison with feasible molecular techniques, we conclude that FTIR spectroscopy applied in real time can inform targeted infection control strategies and aid in the effective management of nosocomial infections.

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.

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.

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 %).