Hydrophilic Behavior Research Articles

Recent Advances in the Design and Application of Asymmetric Carbon-Based Materials.

Asymmetric carbon-based materials (ACBMs) have received significant attention in scientific research due to their unique structures and properties. Through the introduction of heterogeneous atoms and the construction of asymmetric ordered/disordered structures, ACBMs are optimized in terms of electrical conductivity, pore structure, and chemical composition and exhibit multiple properties such as hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, optical characteristics, and magnetic behavior. Here, the recent research progress of ACBMs is reviewed, focusing on the potential of these materials for electrochemical, catalysis, and biomedical applications and their unique advantages over conventional symmetric carbon-based materials. Meanwhile, a variety of construction strategies of asymmetric structures, including template method, nanoemulsion assembly method, and self-assembly method, are described in detail. In addition, the contradictions between material synthesis and application are pointed out, such as the limitations of synthesis methods and morphology modulation means, as well as the trade-off between property improvement and production costs. Finally, the future development path of ACBMs is envisioned, emphasizing the importance of the close integration of theory and practice, and looking forward to promoting the research and development of a new generation of high-performance materials through the in-depth understanding of the design principles and action mechanisms of ACBMs.

IR Spectroscopic Studies on Water Confined in an Isoreticular MOF Series–Influence of the Metal and Linker Functionality

AbstractMono‐ and bimetallic MOF‐74 samples with different ratios of Mg2+ and Ni2+ (9:1, 7:3, and 1:1), as well as Ni‐MOF‐74 analogs with different pore sizes and functionalities, were loaded with water through the exposure to a controlled relative humidity. To get information on the influence of the metal, pore size (1.2–3.6 nm), and functionality on the confined water, all samples were analyzed through infrared spectroscopy and the results were correlated to corresponding water sorption isotherms. Deconvolution of the O‐H stretching vibrational band made it possible to draw conclusions about differently ordered water species inside the pores. In all samples, it was visible that at lower pore loadings, the MOFs mostly comprised of less ordered water species, while higher pore loadings led to an increased formation of a more ordered, tetrahedral phase. Increasing amounts of Ni2+ within the series of bimetallic Mg/Ni‐MOF‐74 samples gave the hydrated systems a more hydrophilic behavior and favored the growth of more ordered species. Moreover, larger pores favored the less ordered water species, while hydrophilic functionalities led to the growth of water with a higher tetrahedrality and hydrophobic groups led to pores dominated by less ordered water species but can also have an ordering effect.

Simultaneous Profiling of Multiple Phosphorylated Metabolites in Typical Biological Matrices via Ion-Pair Reversed-Phase Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry.

Simultaneous analysis of multiple phosphorylated metabolites (phosphorylated metabolome) in biological samples is vital to reveal their physiological and pathophysiological functions, which is extremely challenging due to their low abundance in some biological matrices, high hydrophilicity, and poor chromatographic behavior. Here, we developed a new method with ion-pair reversed-phase ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry using BEH C18 columns modified with hybrid surface technology. This method demonstrated good performances for various phosphorylated metabolites, including phosphorylated sugars and amino acids, nucleotides, NAD-based cofactors, and acyl-CoAs in a single run using standard LC systems. Specifically, the method showed good retention (capacity factor > 2) and reproducibility (ΔtR < 0.09 min, n = 6), peak symmetry (tailing factor < 2), and sensitivity (limit-of-detection < 238 fmol-on-column with QTOFMS) for all tested analytes especially for the medium- and/or long-chain acyl-CoAs. The method demonstrated reproducible applicability across numerous biological matrices, including tissue (liver), human biofluids (urine, plasma), cells, and feces, and revealed significant molecular phenotypic differences in phosphorylated metabolite composition.

Annealing Temperature Effect on the Properties of CoCe Thin Films Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering at Si(100) and Glass Substrates

This study explores cobalt–cerium (Co90Ce10) thin films deposited on silicon (Si) (100) and glass substrates via direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering, with thicknesses from 10 nanometer (nm) to 50 nm. Post-deposition annealing treatments, conducted from 100 °C to 300 °C, resulted in significant changes in surface roughness, surface energy, and magnetic domain size, demonstrating the potential to tune magnetic properties via thermal processing. The films exhibited hydrophilic behavior, with thinner films showing a stronger substrate effect, crucial for surface engineering in device fabrication. Increased film thickness reduced transmittance due to photon signal inhibition and light scattering, important for optimizing optical devices. Furthermore, the reduction in sheet resistance and resistivity with increasing thickness and heat treatment highlights the significance of these parameters in optimizing the electrical properties for practical applications.

Electrospinning of annatto-loaded cellulose acetate scaffolds using acetone/DMSO as solvent

Abstract Electrospinning has emerged as a versatile technique for producing nanofibers for diverse applications. The fibers produced are highly regarded for their biocompatibility, exceptional surface-to-volume ratios, porosity, and adjustable composition properties, making them promising scaffolds for tissue engineering. In the literature, annatto-loaded cellulose acetate has already been successfully used for electrospinning. However, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) was utilized as a solvent in the experiments, which is considered a carcinogenic and mutagenic substance. The aim of this study is to analyze whether comparable results can be achieved with a low toxicity solvent consisting of acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). In this study, we investigate the electrospinning process of cellulose acetate (CA) and cellulose acetate combined with annatto extract (CA/A). Initially, various polymer concentrations ranging from 12% to 16% (w/v) were characterized by rheological measurements to determine their suitability for electrospinning. The morphology and diameter distribution of the electrospun fibers were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Contact angle measurements were carried out to determine the wettability of the electrospun meshes. The rheological investigations conducted revealed that increasing the polymer content of CA raises viscosity, while the incorporation of annatto decreases it. Uniform fibers are achieved at polymer concentrations of 14% and above. The electrospun nanofibers exhibit uniform morphology and diameters in the nanometer range, indicating the successful fabrication of annatto-loaded CA nanofibers. The contact angle measurements showed hydrophilic behavior on all investigated meshes. The incorporation of annatto extract in the electrospun fibers holds promise for various applications, including biomedical scaffolds, scaffolds for cultured meat, filtration membranes and food packaging materials. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing electrospinning parameters for the fabrication of functional nanofibers with enhanced properties.

Self-floating Janus hydrovoltaics for sustainable electricity generation

Water is widely available in nature that attracts increasing interesting in simulating transpiration effect to induce the electricity. However, it faces great challenges in establishing continues moisture gradient rather than periodic wetting behaviors. Here, we propose a self-floating Janus generator containing the hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions to induce the continues electricity. The self-floating and hydrophilic behavior ensures a continuous water supply. The asymmetric Janus structure forms a distinct wet/dry interface to create a significant water gradient with evaporation equilibrium state. At wetting region, the electric double layer (EDL) is formed due to the interaction of water and carbon black particles. Attributed to the large water gradient and fast contact line evaporation, proton accumulates across the capillary front that induces a potential difference. As a result, the Janus generator achieves 0.46 V open circuit voltage lasting for 40 h. It also demonstrates the potential applications of Janus generator in power supply, moisture detection and sweat monitoring et al. The proposed Janus generators show great potential in ocean energy development and be of great significance to the sensing of rescue signals in the sea.

A sulfobetaine containing-polymethylmethacrylate surface coating as an excellent antifouling agent against Chlorella sp

Biofouling represents one of the major issues in Photobioreactors (PBRs) for microalgae cultivation. At this aim, a series of zwitterionic-containing polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) co-ter-polymers, differing in the molar percentage of sulfobetaine (SBMA)- and 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) components were designed as antifouling (AF) potential coatings for inner PMMA surface of photobioreactors (PBRs). Among these, the sample named PSBM, P(HEMA-co-MMA-co-SBMA), showing the best film capabilities on PMMA slides, was selected, characterized and its AF activity investigated. High transparent and thin PSBM films, as confirmed by AFM and optical transparency investigations, were obtained by a simple drop-casting procedure using a basic isopropylalcohol/water mixture. AFM images of raw PSBM and PSBM films clearly indicate that a conformational change occurred upon treatment with electrolytes. PSBM was further characterized by ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Static Water Contact Angle (WCA) investigations. Consistent with hydrophilic behavior, the PSBM surface provided a WCA of 60.9 ± 0.8° which, interestingly, decreased to 27.7 ± 1.2° after immersion in electrolyte culture media. PSBM films displayed a high satisfactory AF behavior in that a rare or no cell adhesion was observed when placed for 7 days in a suspension of the green microalga Chlorella sp. For comparison, the experiments were carried out with untreated and rough PMMA surfaces.

Agarose Micro/Nanostructured Surfaces: A Step Toward an Innovative Solution for Platelet Storage Bags

AbstractIn addressing the critical limitations associated with platelet storage, the study investigates an innovative solution aimed at preventing the unwanted activation of platelets within storage bags. This activation is a key factor that currently restricts the shelf life of platelet products to only 72 h, leading to extreme waste production and high costs. Here, highly effective surfaces are identified for minimizing surface‐induced platelet activation. Using thermal nanoimprint lithography (T‐NIL), a new method is demonstrated for patterning reproducible agarose micro/nanostructures (a natural hydrogel with anti‐platelet adhesive properties) including dots, chains, pills, and squares. The agarose (3%) structured surfaces displayed outstanding flexibility and hydrophilic behavior that prevented platelet adhesion as confirmed by confocal microscopy. Importantly, pill‐shaped structures effectively maintained their ability to prevent platelet adhesion, even after a long cell‐contacting duration. Atomic force microscopy indicated that the effectiveness of dampening platelet adherence is determined by the shape, size, height, and aspect ratio of the structures. A model is provided to explain how the different shapes affect wettability and thereby hinder platelet adherence. The developed anti‐adhesive agarose structured surfaces show promise to revolutionize platelet storage, provide vital insights into biomaterials research, and demonstrate the potential of tailored agarose surfaces in biomedical applications.

A closed-loop sustainable method for the fabrication of electrospun nanofiber using food waste for filtration of particulate matters (PMs) and volatile organic matter (VOCs) from air

Indoor air pollution significantly impacts human health and the environment. Humans suffer the greatest health burden due to inefficient combustion technologies and polluted fuels. Therefore, air filtration is essential for a healthy and prosperous household. This study aims to develop a sustainable approach for the fabrication of biodegradable electrospun nanofibers (ENs) as air filters from food waste materials and offer a closed-loop circular solution and potential replacement for non-biodegradable HEPA air filters. We have tested banana peel extract (BPE), eggshell membrane, chitosan, and starch blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for fabricating ENs. Among the nanofibers investigated for air filtration application, BPE/PVA nanofiber shows the best performance in terms of maximum particulate matter (PM) removal efficiency and minimum pressure drop while incorporating > 50% of the food waste into the electrospinning solution. Adding BPE into a 10% PVA solution leads to a reduction in the hydrophilic behavior of the BPE/PVA nanofiber as compared to neat 10% PVA ENs. The BPE/PVA nanofiber shows minimum pressure drop (156–160 Pa) and highest quality factor (Qf) in comparison with other waste-derived nanofibers with > 98% filtration efficiency of PM2.5. Further, BPE/PVA nanofiber shows the highest adsorption of xylene vapor among other food waste derived nanofibers studied. Based on the above results, it can be concluded that BPE based nanofiber shows the best performance as air filter media among all other food waste-based ENs. The study demonstrates a successful regeneration and reuse of the BPE/PVA filter up to 3 cycles. The leftover material from banana peels after BPE extraction was utilized as a soil ameliorant. It showed 55% soil water retention (SWR) capacity, making it possible to apply in arid regions or crops with high water requirements.

Thickness dependent crystallinity, hydrophilicity, and surface microtexture in CaF2 thin films deposited via thermal evaporation method

This study investigates the deposition and characterization of CaF₂ thin films with thicknesses ranging from 40 to 320 nm, fabricated via thermal evaporation onto glass substrates. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) revealed that increased film thickness leads to enhanced crystallinity, with larger crystallite sizes and reduced lattice strain. Wettability analysis demonstrated a transition from hydrophobic behavior (contact angle ∼70° for 40 nm) to hydrophilic behavior (contact angle ∼52° for 320 nm) as film thickness increased. Surface morphology, examined via atomic force microscopy (AFM), showed a significant reduction in surface roughness in thicker films, with smoother, more coalesced surfaces observed for films over 160 nm. Monofractal analysis further confirmed the evolution of surface microtexture, with thicker films exhibiting higher uniformity and reduced surface complexity. These findings provide critical insights into optimizing CaF₂ thin films for applications in optics, electronics, and surface coatings, where improved crystallinity and surface properties are essential.

Deposition of HA-GO on ASO modified Ti surface by EPD method and characterization of surface and biological properties of the coating

In this study, the surfaces of titanium (grade 2) substrates were modified by different methods and then coated with a hydroxyapatite-graphene oxide (HA-GO) composite by electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The aim of the study is to improve the surface properties and increase the hydrophilicity of the surface of titanium by different surface treatments. The surface modification processes are as follows: sandblasting (S), acid etching (E), and finally anodic spark oxidation (ASO) on the etched surface. After the surface modification processes, the surface of titanium was coated with HA-GO suspensions (0, 2, 4, and 6 wt% GO) with a voltage value of 20 for 5 minutes by the EPD method. The surface morphology, elemental analysis, contact angle, phase composition, adhesion, biocompatibility, and bioactivity of the produced coatings were examined. Bioactivity analysis was performed in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 14 days. The MTT experiment was conducted with L929 (mouse fibroblast) cell cultures in accordance with the 70% cell viability criterion. As a result of contact angle measurements, it was observed that all samples showed hydrophilic behavior due to the increased surface area after ASO treatment. The contact angle of the sanded surface was 71.03°, whereas the contact angles of the ASO treatment and HA-GO coatings after the coating process were measured below 5 degrees. The bioactivity test results indicated that the surface modified with HA-GO (4 wt%) exhibited the best apatite nucleation outcome. As a result of the analysis with L929 cells, HA, HA-GO (2 wt%), HA-GO (4 wt%) composite coatings showed biocompatible behaviour with 102.17, 76.52, and 80.43% cell viability, respectively. The best result in the adhesion test was reported for HA-GO (4 wt.%) coating with class 5B.

Biocompatible and hydrophilic copper-complexed polyvinyl alcohol coating for antifogging surfaces

Visibility is decreased when fog accumulates on the clear surface of optical devices. It is quite desirable to design the surface with antifogging properties. The current study used a dip coating process to prepare copper-incorporated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrophilic coating on the hydroxylated glass substrate. The formation of the PVA-Cu complex by the hydroxyl group was determined by FTIR and XPS methods. The surface morphology, adhesion test, wettability behavior, and cytotoxicity were investigated by SEM, cross-cut tape, contact angle measurement, and MTT experiment. By varying the CuCl2 concentration (0.0125–0.0625 M), the durability and adhesion of the coating were improved, as evidenced by its minimal mass loss and water uptake. The optimum coating condition showed a thickness of about 24.0 ± 0.7 μm and a good optical transmittance of over 90 %. Below 0.0375 M, the coating stability and water resistance could not be achieved due to the weak complexation of Cu with the PVA coating. In contrast, the PVA-Cu3 coating (0.0375 M, Cu2+ ions) was identified as an optimized condition for improved antifogging performance due to the effective complexation of Cu with the PVA matrix while maintaining the hydrophilicity and wettability behavior. Furthermore, no cytotoxicity was observed by L929 cell lines in response to the prepared coating. The current study results revealed that the adhesive, hydrophilic PVA-Cux coating with a contact angle of less than 62° might demonstrate strong antifogging properties and find its usage for endoscopic applications.

Chemofunctionalization of knitted silk to improve interface connection in a nano/micro scaffold based on polycaprolactone-chitosan-multi-walled carbon nanotube/silk

Nano/micro hybrid scaffolds in long-term healing tissue engineering can simultaneously offer both mechanical and biological properties. In this study, a hybrid scaffold was fabricated through electrospinning of polycaprolactone (PCL)-chitosan (Cs)/ multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) based nanofibers onto a chemically functionalized knitted silk substrate (F-Silk) and the scaffold were evaluated with regard to morphology, chemical and crystalline structure, hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, bioactivity, biodegradability, and cellular behavior. Chemical functionalization of silk using N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) and 1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) resulted in greater integrity in the formation of nanofibers onto the microfibers. The presence of MWCNTs significantly reduced the contact angle of the scaffolds from 79.72° ± 2.72 to 68.92° ± 5.63. Chemical functionalization of silk, the presence of nanofiber coating, and the presence of MWCNTs increased the ultimate tensile strength of the hybrid scaffolds by 18 %, 20 %, and 30 % compared to raw silk fabric, respectively. The presence of MWCNTs and chemical functionalization of knitted silk increased the bioactivity and reduced the degradation rate of hybrid scaffolds. The increase in the amount of carboxyl groups as a result of adding 0.5 wt% of MWCNTs significantly improved the adhesion, growth and proliferation of chondrocyte cells on the hybrid scaffolds as observed through cell morphology. According to the obtained results, hybrid scaffold based on PCL-Cs-MWCNTs/F-silk can be a suitable option for further research in cartilage tissue engineering.

Controlled Synthesis of Bioderived Poly(limonene carbonate)-Oligolysine Hybrid Macromolecules.

A straightforward and stepwise functionalization of poly(limonene carbonate) (PLC) was achieved through the use of thiol-ene click chemistry introducing primary amine groups. These amines are initiating points for N-carboxy anhydride (NCA) ring-opening polymerization (ROP) reactions, allowing us to modify the PLC backbone with oligolysine fragments, thereby creating a polymer brush type macromolecule. These newly prepared biohybrid structures show a clear hydrophilic behavior as evident from their physical behavior and contact angle measurements.

Biosynthetic capabilities of Antarctic yeast Sporobolomyces roseus AL103: Temperature influence on intracellular metabolites and characterization of the exopolysaccharide

The purpose of the study was to investigate the biosynthetic properties of the Antarctic yeast strain Sporobolomyces roseus AL103 in response to temperature changes, to perform intracellular metabolic profiling, and to reveal the chemical and functional characteristics of the synthesized exopolysaccharide (EPS). The results show that the yeast strain needed a shorter time to reach a stationary phase at 22 °C contrary to that of 5 °C. An NMR analysis revealed differences in metabolic profiles of amino acids, glucose, trehalose, glycerol, uridine, etc. EPS (2.9 g/L) was characterized by high–molecular-weight with total carbohydrate, uronic acids, and protein content of 66 %, 10.5 %, and 2.5 %, respectively. Mannose (74 mol%) and galactose (19 mol%) were the major constituents. The FT-IR data suggested the presence of β-(1–4)-mannan. DSC thermogram, WVTR, mechanical properties, and moisture sorption of the EPS film showed thermal stability up to 220 °C and hydrophilic behavior. The newly obtained polymer film was studied for the first time and the data showed possibilities for its successful application as a film-forming material in the preparation of packaging materials. In conclusion, the temperature influenced the metabolic profile of the Antarctic yeast producer. The biotechnological process could be directed to obtain the target intracellular or extracellular metabolites.

A gold nano-urchin-decorated quasi-freestanding graphene-based humidity sensor with enhanced responsivity and a wide relative humidity detection range for real-time applications

Excellent humidity response and detection threshold are essential attributes of a humidity sensor. In this study, quasi-freestanding graphene (QFSG) was grown epitaxially on vicinal silicon carbide via thermal annealing, followed by decoration with hydrophilic gold nano-urchins (AuNUs). The resulting humidity sensor consistently achieved highly effective non-contact humidity-sensing performance, which can be used to monitor breathing and skin moisture. The proposed humidity sensor demonstrated a non-linear response of ∼119.98 % over a wide relative humidity detection range of 4–96 % at a frequency of 1 kHz, outperforming a QFSG-only humidity-sensing device (∼11.92 % and 22–84 % relative humidity, respectively). This 10-fold increase in humidity response and wider detection range is attributed to the hydrophilicity and plasmonic behavior of the AuNUs. It also demonstrated transient impedance response/recovery time of 4.5 and 3.0 s, respectively; low hysteresis of 3.6 %; and stability over 25 days, which are key factors for effective humidity sensing. The fast response and sensitivity of the AuNUs/QFSG humidity sensor made it possible to test for various real-time monitoring applications such as human breathing and non-contact proximity testing.

Exploring the effects of fiber content and length on mechanical, free vibration, electrical, and water absorption properties of Phoenix sp. fiber‐reinforced polyester composites

AbstractThis work addresses the experimental investigation of the mechanical, free vibration, electrical resistivity, and moisture uptake characteristics of Phoenix sp. fiber‐reinforced polyester composites (PFRPC) fabricated using the compression molding method. The polyester matrix (PM) was added with Phoenix sp. fibers (PSFs) of different content (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 wt%) and length (10, 20, and 30 mm) and studied their effect on the aforesaid properties. The results reveal that the composites having 20 wt% of 20 mm length PSFs exhibited optimum mechanical properties. At this loading, the ultimate tensile strength and modulus were 48.36 MPa and 2.86 GPa, respectively, while the flexural strength and modulus were 83.89 MPa and 2.91 GPa, respectively. Furthermore, this composite exhibits an impact strength of 22.04 kJ/m2 and an interlaminar shear strength of 41.88 MPa. The increase in PSF content and length resulted in greater stiffness and decreased mass of the composites, leading to an enhanced natural frequency. The inclusion of PSFs showed a decline in electrical resistivities due to their moisture‐absorbing capability. In contrast, the hydrophilic behavior of PSFs led to a rise in the water absorption rate of the composites due to the increase in fiber variables. Scanning electron microscopy examination shows that short fiber‐reinforced composites have more fiber pull‐outs due to the limited area of contact, whereas long fiber‐added composites possess better bonding with the PM.Highlights Various properties of Phoenix sp. fiber/polyester composites were investigated Increase in fiber content enhanced the mechanical performance of composites Variation in fiber length has only minimal effect on composite properties Phoenix sp. fiber/polyester composites exhibit better insulating property

Laser-Induced Vertical Graphene Nanosheets for Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution.

Efficient and affordable electrocatalysts are fundamental for the sustainable production of hydrogen from water electrolysis. Here, an approach for the rapid production of laser-induced vertical graphene nanosheets (LIVGNs) through the exfoliation of the graphite foil under laser irradiation is presented. The density of the formed LIVGNs is ∼3 per 100 μm2. On leveraging the inherent flexibility and conductivity of the graphite foil substrate, the resulting LIVGNs exhibit a 2.2-fold increase in capacitance, making them promising candidates for electrode applications. The laser-induced surface reconstruction introduces abundant sharp edges to the LIVGNs, enhancing their electrocatalytic potential for hydrogen evolution. In electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution tests in acidic media, the LIVGNs demonstrate superior performance with a remarkable decrease in the required overpotential at 10 mA cm-2, from -555 mV for the pristine graphite foil to -348 mV for LIVGNs. This improvement is attributed to the active sites provided by the sharp edges, facilitating hydrogen species adsorption. Furthermore, the hydrophilic behavior of LIVGNs is enhanced through the anchoring of oxygen-containing groups, promoting the rapid release of the produced hydrogen bubbles. Importantly, the modified LIVGN electrode exhibits long-term stability across a wide range of current densities during chronoamperometry tests. This research introduces a transformative strategy for the efficient preparation of vertical graphene sheets on conductive graphite foils, showcasing their potential applications in electrocatalysis and energy storage.

Anthocyanin-rich grape pomace extract encapsulated in protein fibers: Colorimetric profile, in vitro release, thermal resistance, and biological activities

Red wine grape pomace is an important source of bioactive compounds with biological activities of interest. Grape pomace extract can be encapsulated in ultrafine fibers using the electrospinning technique. Encapsulation is used to increase stability and protect the phenolic compounds in the extract. In this study, zein fibers were developed for encapsulation of grape pomace extract (0 %, 5 %, 10 %, and 15 % w/w). The extract was evaluated for colorimetric profile, whereas the ultrafine zein fibers carrying the extract were assessed for morphology, loading capacity, in vitro release profile, thermal and thermogravimetric properties, thermal resistance, hydrophilicity, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The grape pomace extract changed color depending on pH, ranging from pink (pH 1) to yellow (pH 13 and 14). The fibers presented a smooth and uniform structure, with diameters of approximately 450 nm and a loading capacity of up to 82 %. The membranes of ultrafine fibers demonstrated hydrophilic behavior, and the in vitro release profile was dependent on the concentration of the added extract. Furthermore, the fibers were observed thermally protect the encapsulated compounds and maintain their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. These findings indicate that the produced material has potential applications in the development of active and intelligent packaging for the food industry.

Novel wastepaper nanocellulose/chitosan‐based nanocomposite membrane for effective removal of the textile dye Congo red from aqueous solution

AbstractDevelopment of a cost‐effective and environmentally friendly method to treat dye wastewater is of utmost importance. In this experimental study, wastepaper was used as the raw material for the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals to fabricate a nanocomposite membrane with chitosan. During the extraction process, acid hydrolysis (Sulfuric acid) followed by bleaching (hydrogen peroxide) was adopted. To confirm the nano‐range, particle size analysis, and FESEM were performed, which confirmed the presence of particles in the nano‐range ranging from 313.8 to 122.1 nm and FESEM observed results showed transformation of fibrous to rod shaped nanocrystals after acid hydrolysis. After successful nanocomposite fabrication a porous sieved network of membrane was observed and after adsorption successful adhesion of dye molecules over the membrane matrix was also confirmed. FTIR data showed that during adsorption mechanism some of the prominent peaks gets disappeared suggest interaction of dye molecules onto the nanocomposite. The contact angle of 21.0° was observed for the ChNC3 nanocomposite showed super hydrophilic behavior. Tensile strength was also observed in terms of young's modulus, ultimate strength, and elongation at break. The elasticity and stiffness of a material are usually indicated by its young modulus. In AH CNCs and ChNC3, the young modulus was seen to be increasing from 195&lt; 693, respectively. On the other hand, the ultimate strength indicates AH CNCs and ChNC3 and shows a downward trend of 1.56&gt; 0.316, respectively. Furthermore, the potentiality of the nanocomposite membrane was analyzed for Congo red dye in synthetic wastewater prepared in the laboratory. During the batch study, various working parameters were taken such as initial dye solution (20–100 ppm), pH (1–7), contact time (10–60 min), and dosage (0.1–0.5 mg/L). To know about adsorption, Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm were analyzed it was observed that Freundlich isotherm show best fitted modeling with R2 = 0.99, and n = 1.6 showing favorability of the heterogeneous adsorption. To determine the interaction between the adsorbate and adsorbent, pseudo first order and pseudo second order kinetics models were analyzed, and it was observed that chemisorption interaction followed between the adsorbate and adsorbent. Thermodynamic parameters were analyzed, which confirmed the spontaneous and favorable adsorption mechanism. To avoid fouling problems and maintain cost effectiveness, the resulting, nanocomposite membrane was desorbed using an appropriate solvent. After 5 cycles, the desorption rate decreased from 54% to 38%. This developed nanocomposite membrane appears to be effective in effluent waste treatment because of its simple formulation approach.