Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscopy Research Articles

Enhancement in the optical and carbon dioxide gas sensing properties of polythiophene by dispersion of manganese dioxide nanoparticles

The present research article demonstrates the dispersion of manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles in polythiophene (PTh) to enhance the optical and gas sensing properties of PTh/MnO2 nanocomposites. The structural aspects of the as-synthesized nanocomposites were demonstrated by the techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Furthermore, the optical characterization of the resulting composite was investigated using UV-Vis spectroscopy. UV-Vis analyses of obtained nanocomposite revealed a forbidden band of ∼ 3.7 eV. The prepared nanocomposites were exposed to CO2 gas to investigate the composites suitability for gas sensing application, which prove to be promising materials. The prominent exploit of the present work is that 0.8 Wt.% MnO2 loaded PTh composite material exhibits significant sensing response at low operating temperature including good stability and fast response and recovery time. The core objective of this work is the discussion of the enhancement in stability, response and recovery time as a consequence of the interaction between the CO2 gas and the as-synthesized nanocomposites.

Design of a Humidity Sensor for a PPE Kit Using a Flexible Paper Substrate.

The present work reports the rapid sweat detection inside a PPE kit using a flexible humidity sensor based on hydrothermally synthesized ZnO (zinc oxide) nanoflowers (ZNFs). Physical characterization of ZNFs was done using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-visible, particle size analysis, Raman analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, and the hydrophilicity was investigated by using contact angle measurement. Fabrication of a flexible sensor was done by deposition on the paper substrate using the spin coating technique. It exhibited high sensitivity and low response and recovery times in the humidity range 10-95%RH. The sensor demonstrated the highest sensitivity of 296.70 nF/%RH within the humidity range 55-95%RH, and the rapid response and recovery times were also calculated and found as 5.10/1.70 s, respectively. The selectivity of the proposed sensor was also analyzed, and it is highly sensitive to humidity. The humidity sensing characteristics were theoretically witnessed in terms of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and electronic properties of sensing materials in ambient and humid conditions. These theoretical results are evidence of the interaction of ZnO with humidity. Overall, the present study provides a scope of architecture-enabled paper-based humidity sensors for the detection of sweat levels inside PPE kits for health workers.

Synthesis of polymeric ferrite composites (Ni-CoFe2O4/Chitosan, Zn-NiFe2O4/Starch, Co-NiZnFe2O4/Polyaniline, Ni doped CrZnFe2O4/Alginate, and Cr doped ZnCoFe2O4/PVA) for the removal of reactive golden yellow-160 dye from wastewater

One of the most significant environmental problems facing the entire planet today is water contamination, which is caused by the increasing industry and urbanization. The present study involves the synthesis of polymeric ferrite composites Ni-CoFe2O4/Chitosan, Zn-NiFe2O4/Starch, Co-NiZnFe2O4/Polyaniline, Ni doped CrZnFe2O4/Alginate, and Cr doped ZnCoFe2O4/PVA for the removal of Golden Yellow-160 dye. The polymeric ferrite composites were characterized using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) which showed the surface morphology, crystallinity, chemical structure and thermal stability of the composites. To get the optimal removal, different parameters like pH, composite dose, contact time, temperature and initial dye concentration were optimized. Different equilibrium and kinetic models were used to check the nature of process and reaction rate of sorption. Thermodynamic were studied to check the feasibility of reaction. The effect of presence of various electrolytes NaCl, CaCl2.2 H2O and AlCl3.6 H2O was also studied. Effect of presence of different metals and surfactants was also studied which cause reduction in adsorption of dyes. For large scale, the effects of bed height, flow rate, and initial dye concentration were examined in column study. Different eluents were used for the desorption study of reactive dyes to check the reusability of process.

Optimization of hematite nanoparticles from natural ore as novel imaging agents: A Green Chemistry approach.

In this research, we propose an environmentally friendly method for producing hematite nanoparticles (H-NPs) from natural hematite ore, focusing on their application as efficient contrast agents in x-ray and computed tomography (CT) imaging for medical purposes. The process involves the reduction of iron oxide within the ore to attain the desired hematite phase, crucial for synthesizing H-NPs. To ensure sustainability, we adopted a Green Chemistry approach, utilizing a combination of carbon soot and limestone for the purification process, thereby achieving eco-conscious production. The produced H-NPs were thoroughly characterized using various analytical techniques, such as x-ray fluorescence (XRF), x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and FESEM-EDX (field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy). XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline rhombohedral hexagonal lattice structure, while FT-IR spectra indicated the presence of characteristic Fe-O stretching modes in line with the expected molecular composition. FESEM-EDX imaging unveiled agglomerated particles, ranging in size from 54.6 to 149.9nm for iron ore and 22nm for H-NPs. These particles were primarily composed of iron (Fe) and oxygen (O). The magnetic properties of the H-NPs were investigated through vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) studies, highlighting their distinct ferromagnetic behavior. Of particular significance, the H-NPs demonstrated exceptional performance as contrast agents in both x-ray and CT imaging. Even at minimal concentrations, they exhibited remarkable x-ray absorption capabilities. CT scans further validated their exceptional absorptive capacity. These findings emphasize the potential of H-NPs as valuable assets in medical imaging, serving as sustainable tools for enhanced diagnostic applications. The study showcases an eco-conscious approach to harnessing natural resources, paving the way for a greener and more effective utilization of H-NPs in the medical imaging landscape.

Spectroscopic and microscopic characterization of humic acids from composts made by co-composting of green waste, spent coffee and OMWW sludge

ABSTRACT Due to its important role in the formation of humic acids (HA), improving lignin degradation during composting has usually been considered a challenge. One practice that could stimulate the biodegradation of this recalcitrant molecule is inoculation with exogenous lignolytic fungal strains. Two composts (C1) and (C2) from piles (H1) and (H2) were evaluated. H1 was the control pile and H2 was inoculated at maturity with Trametes trogii, resulting in a 35% increase in lignin degradation rate compared to H1. The aim of this study was to show the main effects of this increase on the humification process in the co-composting of green waste, coffee grounds and olive mill wastewater sludge (OMWWs). Microstructure of HA1 and HA2 extracted from C1 and C2, respectively, was also investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and SEM coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (X-EDS). The results showed that there were several similarities between the compost samples tested. These included the mineral content, the degree of polymerization (PD)> 1 and the compact and rigid surface of the extracted HA. However, C2 was characterized by a higher humic content (HC), degree of polymerization (PD), humification index (HI) and percentage of humic acids (PHA) than C1. Carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR) and Fourier transmission-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that aliphatic groups such as hydroxyls, alcohols and carboxyls were predominant in both composts. SEM analysis in conjunction with X-EDS analysis of HA2 showed a higher proportion of carbon and potassium (18 and 7.93%) than in HA1 (14 and 0.95%).

Multi-functional nanoscale ZrO2 catalysts for sustainable water treatment

This study aimed to synthesize highly reactive ZrO2 nanoparticles using a straightforward sol-gel method for addressing water contamination from hazardous metal ions and organic dyes. Structural and photocatalytic properties were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transmission Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. XRD analysis confirmed the tetragonal crystal structure of ZrO2. Photodegradation experiments using Eriochrome Black T (EBT) as a model dye revealed nearly 99% degradation under natural sunlight. Investigations into catalyst loading, dye concentration, pH, and irradiation source were conducted. Preliminary tests demonstrated the adsorbent's efficacy in removing Ca2+ ions. Further process optimizations could significantly enhance the potential of this innovative adsorbent for extracting metal ions from complex effluents.

Adsorptive Removal of Selected Toxic Metals from Pharmaceutical Wastewater using Fe<sup>3</sup>O<sup>4</sup>/ZnO Nanocomposite

Pharmaceutical wastewater is a major source of environmental contamination, often containing toxic metals that pose significant threats to ecosystems and public health. This study explores the potential of magnetite/zinc oxide (Fe3O4/ZnO) nanocomposites prepared using a sol-gel method for the removal of lead, cadmium, and copper ions from pharmaceutical wastewater. The nanocomposite was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), High-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM)/energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The XRD analysis of the nanocomposite identified 2θ (theta), of 31.7º, 34.4º, 36.2º, 47.5º, 56.6º, 62.8º, 66.3º, and 67.9º which correspond to the crystal planes of (100), (002), (101), (102), (110), (103), (200), and (112), respectively. The diffraction peaks associated with Fe3O4 at 2θ of 18.02º, 29.4º, and 43.3º, related to the crystal planes of (111), (220), and (400), respectively of the Fe3O4 phase. The HRSEM image of the nanocomposite exhibited spherical-shaped structures of Fe3O4/ZnO, and some irregular shapes. The effects of the contact time, dosage and temperature on the removal percentage of toxic metal ions were studied. Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm constants and correlation coefficients were determined and the equilibrium process was better described by the Langmuir isotherm. The adsorption process followed a second order kinetics and the thermodynamic parameters showed that the involved process was spontaneous. These findings contribute to the advancement of environmentally friendly technologies for the pharmaceutical industry and the broader field of wastewater remediation.

Polymeric ferrite composites as versatile adsorbents for enhanced reactive blue dye removal: a promising solution for treating textile wastewater

ABSTRACT Water contamination caused by the increasing industry and urbanisation is one of the most significant environmental problems that entire planet is facing. Various polymeric ferrite composites synthesised in the current study were employed to remove the synthetic reactive dye blue-248 from wastewater. The polymeric ferrite composites were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to observe the surface morphology, crystallinity and chemical structure of as-prepared composites. The optimum removal of dye using Ni-CoFe2O4/Chitosan, Zn-NiFe2O4/Starch, CoNiZnFe2O4/Polyaniline, Ni doped CrZnFe2O4/Alginate, Cr doped ZnCoFe2O4/PVA was at (i) pH 2 (32.34 mg/g), 3 (30.31 mgg−1), 3 (21.05 mgg−1), 3 (25.69 mgg−1) and 4 (38.61 mgg−1), (ii) optimum dose (0.03 mg/g) 32.40, 30.27, 21.91, 25.98 and 39.2 mg/g, (iii) Contact time (6090 min) 46.898, 37.70, 43.318, 29.356 and 34.12 mg/g, (iv) Initial dye concentration 32.24 mgg1, 25.79 mgg−1 (120 mg/L), 35.85 mgg−1, 28.37 mgg−1 and 40.37 mgg−1 (150 mg/L) and (v) temperature (65°C) 29.67, 27.08, 21.66, 23.60 and 41.40 mg/g, respectively. Different equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic models were used to check the nature of sorption, reaction rate/order of reaction and feasibility of reaction, respectively. The effect of presence of various electrolytes, different metals and surfactants in wastewater were also studied. For dye removal on a large scale, the effects of bed height (1–3 cm), flow rate (1.8–5.4) and initial dye concentration (50–90 ppm) were examined in column study. Different eluents were used for the desorption study of reactive dyes to check the reusability of process.

Antimicrobial activity of ZnO-Ag-MWCNTs nanocomposites prepared by a simple impregnation–calcination method

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods and ZnO nanostructures composited with silver (Ag) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been synthesized by a simple impregnation–calcination method and have been shown to be suitable for use as antimicrobial agents. The preparation method used for composite materials is very simple, time-effective, and can be used for large-scale production. Several analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron spectroscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), have been used to characterize the prepared ZnO-Ag-MWCNT composite materials. The effects on structural, morphological, and antimicrobial properties of (ZnO)100-x (Ag)x nanocomposites at various weight ratios (x = 0, 5, 10, 30, and 50 wt%) have been investigated. The antimicrobial properties of ZnO composited with Ag nanoparticles and MWCNTs towards both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria species were studied. The effect of raw MWCNTs and MWCNTs composited with ZnO and Ag on the cell morphology and chemical composition of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) was studied by SEM and EDS, respectively. It was found that composite materials made of ZnO-Ag-MWCNTs exhibit greater antibacterial activities toward the microorganisms E. coli and S. aureus than ZnO-Ag, which could be beneficial for efficient antimicrobial agents in water and air treatment applications.

Investigation on the physico-chemical properties of soil and mineralization of three selected tropical tree leaf litter

Plant leaf litter has a major role in the structure and function of soil ecosystems as it is associated with nutrient release and cycling. The present study is aimed to understand how well the decomposing leaf litter kept soil organic carbon and nitrogen levels stable during an incubation experiment that was carried out in a lab setting under controlled conditions and the results were compared to those from a natural plantation. In natural site soil samples, Anacardium. occidentale showed a higher value of organic carbon at surface (1.14%) and subsurface (0.93%) and Azadirachta. indica exhibited a higher value of total nitrogen at surface (0.28%) and subsurface sample (0.14%). In the incubation experiment, Acacia auriculiformis had the highest organic carbon content initially (5.26%), whereas A. occidentale had the highest nitrogen level on 30th day (0.67%). The overall carbon-nitrogen ratio showed a varied tendency, which may be due to dynamic changes in the complex decomposition cycle. The higher rate of mass loss and decay was observed in A. indica leaf litter, the range of the decay constant is 1.26–2.22. The morphological and chemical changes of soil sample and the vermicast were substantained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).

Insights into the EPS production and distribution of planktonic and attached Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans cells during bioleaching

Bacterial leaching can effectively promote the bioleaching of chalcopyrite by secreting extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). In this study, the production and distribution of EPS on the surface of planktonic and attached cells of Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans (S. thermosulfidooxidans) during the process of chalcopyrite concentrate bioleaching were observed in situ using Field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). The TOC content and key components of EPS were extracted during the chalcopyrite bioleaching process. Moreover, the main functional groups of extracellular polymorphs were identified through Fourier transmission-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The results showed a similar trend in the evolution of EPS content in planktonic and attached cells. However, the EPS content secreted by the cells attached was more than that of planktonic cells during the entire process of bioleaching. Furthermore, the results of FE-SEM indicated that the EPS secreted by the attached cells is thicker and stickier, with better adsorption performance. The FT-IR spectrum analysis revealed that the O–H, C–H, and CO bonds are the main functional groups of EPS. This work further clarifies the role of EPS in the bioleaching process.

The Mechanical Properties of a Water Hyacinth/Rice Husk Powders Composite for Tissue Engineering Applications

In this study, composites made from water hyacinth powder (WPH) and rice husk powder (RH) were created using the hot press method, and the composites were characterized to determine their suitability for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering. The mixing ratio of WPH/RH was investigated. Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the presence of chemical bonds in the composites under investigation. Tensile tests were used to investigate the mechanical properties of the composite, which revealed that adding water WPH to the rice husk composite reduced the composite's strength. A composite with a 5% WPH content had the highest tensile strength of 32.72 MPa. Meanwhile, the mechanical strength of the other composites studied ranged from 25,537 MPa to 29.43 MPa. However, the elastic modulus of the composite increased with the addition of WPH. The SEM image shows that the powder distribution is less even, the interface between WPH-RH and polyester is quite tight, and the composite contains a number of voids. Characterization of the developed composite demonstrates that the WPH/RH addition ratio can be adjusted to achieve the desired composite properties for tissue engineering and cartilage regeneration applications.

Comparative Screening of Phytochemicals and Bioactive Compounds of Trema orientalis (Linn. Blume) Leaf and Bark Extracts

This study compared the phytochemical constituents of the leaf with the Bark extracts of T. orientalis, using the same extraction solvents. The leaf and Bark of T. orientalis were harvested at Federal University of Technology, Akure forest, dried and pulverized into powder. Extract were prepared from the powdered plants using Methanol and N-hexane. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical presents in the extracts were determined. The functional compounds of the leaf extract were determined by Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectrometry (FT-IR). Percentage yield of Methanol was better than N-hexane for both plant parts. The phytochemicals revealed includes: Tannins, Saponins, Flavonoids, Steroids, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides. Steroids are present in Leaf extracts but absent in Bark extract, while Saponin is only present in methanol extract of Bark of the plant. Quantitative analysis revealed that terpenoids have the highest amount with 22.90 ± 0.03 mg/g in methanol extract and 28.09 ± 0.07 mg/g in N-hexane, compared with Bark extract that has 22.22 ± 0.09 mg/g in methanol extract and 23.38 ± 0.04 mg/g in N-hexane extracts. Higher quantity of phytochemicals are present in the leaf compared with the Bark of T. orientalis The Fourier Transformed Infrared spectrometry analysis, FT-IR, unveiled the organic compounds available in the extracts, which are: aliphatic primary alcohol, secondary alcohol, aliphatic primary amine, alkane, alkene, carbon dioxide, deta-lactam, phenol, and halo compound. These results indicate that T. orientalis is promising in the choice of medicinal plant for therapeutic research.

Optimum performance of a novel biocompatible scaffold comprising alginate-pectin-selenium nanoparticles for cardiac tissue engineering using C2C12 cells

Many studies have proved that selenium serum or plasma levels are significantly lesser in patients with heart diseases. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have gained more applications in medicine and biology due to their high antioxidant properties. This novel Alginate-Pectin selenium nanoparticles (AP-SeNPs) scaffold was developed using sodium alginate and pectin. In the present study, SeNPs, alginate-pectin (AP) scaffolds, and AP-SeNPs scaffolds were characterized by using Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy (RS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrum (SEM-EDX), and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). The FTIR spectrum of SeNPs, AP, and AP-SeNPs scaffolds was recorded between 400-4000 cm-1. The XRD studies showed that SeNPs, AP, and AP-SeNPs scaffolds were amorphous. SEM imaging indicated that SeNPs were spherical and uniformly distributed with a 100–200 nm size range. The EDX mapping also confirmed the uniform distribution of SeNPs within the AP-SeNPs scaffold. The zeta potential measurements showed a distinct sharp peak at -71 mV, indicating the high stability of the SeNPs dispersed in the medium. In the tensile strength, the AP-SeNPs scaffold demonstrated a significant improvement in strength, increasing from 8.68 N to 11.79 N, indicating enhanced mechanical properties compared to the AP scaffold. AP-SeNPs scaffold showed a high level of antioxidative activity of 61.52%. Moreover, SeNPs showed a concentration-dependent effect against C2C12 cells using an MTT assay. The present study focused on developing a novel scaffold, its significance in antioxidative potential, mechanical strength, and its performance in the C2C12 cell line in cardiac tissue engineering applications.

Adsorption of aqueous perfluorooctane sulfonate by raw and oleylamine-modified Iranian diatomite and zeolite: Material and application insight

Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) is a hazardous chemical, and its presence in surface and groundwater poses a risk to environmental quality and human health. Containment is often applied to immobilize PFOS to stop or minimize the exposure. Mineral-based materials became promising adsorbents. However, there is scope to develop adsorbents using locally available minerals and understand their adsorption mechanisms. Here, we developed oleylamine-modified composites using naturally occurring Iranian zeolite and diatomaceous earth (DE). The mineralogy and surface properties of materials were fully characterized, and the adsorption of PFOS from simulated wastewater was linked to it. Clinoptilolite in zeolite sample, calcite and kaolinite in DE were main mineral assemblages. The raw samples also contained silica as a main constituent of them. Thermogravimetric analysis suggested that the materials were successfully modified with the oleylamine molecules in the material's structure and surfaces. These were further supported by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and surface and pore size analysis. After adsorption at various pHs, the isotherm of adsorption was also performed at ambient temperature. Modified DE and zeolite tend to adsorb PFOS (14.1 and 25.5 mg/g, respectively) more than their raw counterparts (4.72 and 0.39 mg/g, respectively). Adsorption models suggest monolayer and, in rare cases multilayer binding capacities and affinities toward PFOS. We analyzed the post-adsorption materials and discovered that electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction was likely the main cause of PFOS adsorbed to the material. This research helps to improve our knowledge of how PFOS adheres to untreated and surfactant-altered zeolite and DE in aquatic environments.

Lipid extraction and analysis of microalgae strain pectinodesmus PHM3 for biodiesel production

The current study is focused on the lipid extract of microalgae; Pectinodesmus strain PHM3 and its general analysis in terms of chemical contents. Combinations of both chemical and mechanistic approaches were applied to obtain the maximum yield of lipids which was recorded to be 23% per gram through continuous agitation using Folch solution. The extraction methods used in this study included: Bligh and Dyers method, Continuous agitation method, Extraction using Soxhlet and Acid base extraction method. Lipid quantification of ethanol and Folch solution lipid extract was performed through gravimetric methods and qualification was done through Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS). Phytochemical analysis identified other compounds in ethanol extract and the results confirmed the presence of steroids, coumarins, tannins, phenols and carbohydrates. Transesterification of lipids showed 7% per gram dry weight yield of Pectinodesmus PHM3. GC-MS studies of extracted biodiesel suggested that 72% of biofuels was in the form of dipropyl ether, ethyl butyl ethers, methyl butyl ether and propyl butyl ether. Lipid processing of acid-base extract showed that oily nature of lipid shifted to a more precipitated form which is a common observation when mixture of lipids is converted to phosphatides.

ZnO Nanorods Grown on Flexible Polyurethane Foam Surfaces for Photocatalytic Azo Dye Treatment

A flexible photocatalyst hybrid structure made up of aligned ZnO nanorods and three-dimensional networks of polyurethane (PU) foam struts was fabricated. The surfaces of the PU struts were first functionalized by the two-step chemical solution treatment method. The functional groups of the PU foam and the nanohybrid structure were characterized using Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Their crystal structures and morphologies were examined by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The adequacy of the chemical surface modification process was examined by analyzing the differences in the −N ═ C ═ O and O–H regions of the FTIR spectrum. The hybrid photocatalyst samples were also tested in terms of their structural integrities under ultrasonic irradiation. It was observed that the ZnO layers remained intact and adherent on the surfaces even after 1 h of sonication. The optical properties of the samples were also characterized by ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies. Aqueous Acid Red 88 (AR88) azo dye solutions were prepared and used to assess both the color and the total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiencies of the samples utilizing the laboratory-scale photoreactor. The maximum color removal of 97% was reached in 180 min under UVA light irradiation as a consequence of simultaneous adsorption and photocatalysis mechanisms.

Elucidating the phytotoxicity thresholds of various biosynthesized nanoparticles on physical and biochemical attributes of cotton

BackgroundA pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the phytotoxic thresholds of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs), iron oxide (FeO NPs), copper (Cu NPs), and silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on cotton. All the nanoparticles were biosynthesized from Conocarpus erectus L. leaf extract. They were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Five concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 ppm) of all the biosynthesized nanoparticles were foliar applied thrice over the duration of cotton growth. Five cotton seeds were sown in 5 kg soil pot and harvested after 6 weeks. SPAD values were evaluated before harvesting while physical growth parameters, physiological parameters biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters were measured after harvesting.ResultsThe value of all parameters, except oxidative stress, increased by 13–47% in response to ZnO NPs application up to 100 ppm. However, phytotoxic threshold of iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO NPs) and copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) was only 50 ppm as plant growth was increased by 7.9–24.3%. Above 50 ppm plant growth and biomass were decreased by 6.7–16.2%. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) showed maximum growth (3.7 to 9.12% increased) at 25 ppm concentration. At higher concentrations than 25 ppm, the application of Ag NPs decreased the growth due to toxicity. Foliar application of different biosynthesized nanoparticles showed the different range of threshold value for cotton crop. Threshold value of iron oxide and copper nanoparticles for cotton was 50 ppm, whereas, it was 25 ppm for silver nanoparticles. Since the ZnO NPs application continued increasing the growth till its maximum concentration used i.e., 100 ppm, we cannot say that this is its threshold value.ConclusionOn the basis of obtained results, it can be concluded that nanoparticles should be used within threshold to avoid adverse effects on crops. Application of nanoparticles within threshold optimum concentration,increased plant biomass and antioxidant system.Graphical

High catalytic performance of CoCuFe2O4/ZIF-8(Zn) nanocatalyst for synthesis of new benzimidazole derivatives

Herein, we reported an efficient catalytic system for the rapid construction of benzimidazole, benzimidazole-quinoline, benzothiazole, and benzoxazole derivatives by a reaction between arylaldehydes, and ortho-phenylenediamine (2-aminothiophenol, 2-aminophenol) under green conditions. Magnetic CoCuFe2O4/ZIF-8(Zn) was synthesized by a simple and facile procedure with the aid of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) to bind CoCuFe2O4 and ZIF-8(Zn). Different techniques such as Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the catalyst structure. This catalytic system gave us a satisfactory answer and provided the corresponding products with excellent yields. In order to implement procedures to comply with green chemistry, water was used for the synthesis of both catalyst and benzimidazole (benzimidazole-quinoline, benzothiazole, and benzoxazole) derivatives. This publication is the first easy protocol to be reported for the rapid synthesis of benzimidazole (benzimidazole-quinoline, benzothiazole, and benzoxazole) derivatives at room temperature without harsh conditions.

Investigations of thermo-mechanical properties of cryogenic and dual alkali-anhydrous treated hemp fibre and its composites

Physicochemical/thermal modifications on the organic fibres increase the cellulose exposure, potentially improving the thermo-mechanical properties of the composites. This work aims to investigate the thermo-mechanical properties of hemp fibres and their composites to understand the effect of the proposed novel cryogenic treatment using physicochemical characterization like scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The study compares them with conventional dual alkali-anhydrous treatment on the fibres. Dual alkali-anhydrous treatment on the fibres didn’t change its thermal properties, but specific chemical changes were detected. In comparison, investigations of cryogenic treatment on fibres showed improved thermal stability and wettability due to increased cellulose exposure in the primary cell wall. It also reduced the moisture absorption in the fibres. Improvement in mechanical properties was observed in cryogenic treated hemp composite due to increased frictional bond in the composite interface. Hence the proposed cryogenic treatment provides new directions for developing bio-composites for potential engineering applications like automobile interiors and insulation panels in mining applications.