MMT Clay Research Articles

Using Layer-by-layer Assembled Clay Composite Junctions to Enhance the Water Dissociation in Bipolar Membranes.

Bipolar membranes (BPMs) with a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembled montmorillonite (K30 MMT) clay-polyelectrolyte (PE) composite junction coated onto a sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone (SPEEK)) electrospun support are prepared, characterized and their water dissociation performance is analyzed. In particular, the focus is on the effect of the presence of the K30 MMT clay as a catalyst for water dissociation, the bilayer number (three, six, and nine), and the PE strength (poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) as a weak PE and poly(diallyl dimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) as a strong PE) on the BPM performance. The BPMs are prepared by electrospinning and hot pressing SPEEK and the Fumion FAA-3 polymer. Adding the composite multilayers in the BPM junction decreases the membrane area resistance in reverse bias from 560 to 21 Ohms cm2 for the best-performing modified BPM. The bilayer number has limited influence on the overall membrane resistance, while the PDADMAC BPMs outperform the PEI BPMs due to the higher and more stable PE and clay adsorptions. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy shows that the depletion layer thickness decreases exponentially with the number of bilayers as the water dissociation reaction becomes less dependent on the junction electric field. Furthermore, the higher Donnan exclusion at the modified junctions improves the BPM permselectivity 3-fold compared to the BPM containing no catalyst. Altogether, these improvements lead to 6.7 times less energy being used in BPM electrodialysis for the production of acid and base when a BPM with composite LBL junction is used compared to a BPM without catalyst. Thus, adding MMT clay composite LbL catalyst to BPM junctions is a promising method to improve the efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of electrochemical processes that rely on BPMs.

Drug Release Study of Polyvinyl Alcohol-Gelatin-Montmorillonite Bionanocomposite Hydrogel Drug Delivery Systems Loaded with Clindamycin

One of the challenges facing medical science is the proper formulation of drug delivery systems for the correct transfer of active pharmaceutical ingredients to the body. Polymer and nanocomposite hydrogels have been considered ideal options in the preparation of drug delivery systems due to their proper properties, such as hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. In this, our research, described in this manuscript, the drug release from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-gelatin-montmorillonite (MMT) bionanocomposite hydrogel drug delivery systems loaded with clindamycin was studied. The structural and physical properties of prepared nanocomposite hydrogels were investigated using X-ray diffractometry (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmette-Teller (BET) analysis, gel fraction and swelling tests. The results showed that by adding MMT clay to PVA-gelatin hydrogels, the amount of gel fraction increased, and due to the decrease in the size of the pores, the amount of swelling decreased. The results of the drug release tests showed that the release rate of clindamycin was inversely related to the percentage of MMT added to the nanocomposite hydrogel. The results also showed that the shape of the drug delivery system and its dimensions affected the release rate of clindamycin. The dominant mechanism of drug release in all samples was found to be Fickian transport. Considering the favorable in-vitro drug release performance of our PVA-gelatin-MMT nanocomposite hydrogels in the release of clindamycin, it was concluded that they are suitable options for preparing practical drug delivery systems with controlled drug release ability.

Fabrication and Characterization of Montmorillonite Clay/Agar-Based Magnetic Composite and Its Biological and Electrical Conductivity Evaluation.

Montmorillonite clay and agar are naturally occurring materials of significant importance in designing biocompatible materials tailored for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The introduction of magnetic properties has the potential to significantly boost their characteristics and expand their applications. In this study, we have successfully synthesized highly intercalated magnetic composites, incorporating magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs), montmorillonite clay (MMT), and agar (AG), through a thermo-physicomechanical method. Three samples of MMT-AG with 2, 1.5, and 0.5% MNPs and three sample composites of MNPs-AG with 2, 1, and 0.5% MMT clay are prepared. The synthesized composites were characterized by SEM, XRD, TGA, DTA, and FTIR. SEM analysis revealed a uniform dispersion of MNPs and MMT in the composite. The XRD pattern confirmed the presence of MNPs in the composite site. The TGA and DTA results demonstrated improved thermal stability due to the MNP incorporation. FTIR spectra showed all of the constituents of agar, MNPs, and MMT clay. The swelling ratio was observed to range from 835% to 1739%. The swelling study indicated an increased hydrophobicity with the addition of MNPs to the composite. Antibacterial activities revealed a significant inhibition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) growth by ranging from 10 to 19 nm in the composite. The composite also exhibited a considerable antioxidant action, with IC50 values of 7.96, 46.55, and 57.58 μg/mL, and electrical properties just like conductors.

Biomechanically tunable scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration and testbeds of cancer bone metastasis

Current challenges in bone regeneration and design of humanoid 3D bone metastases cancer testbeds can be overcome by designing bone-mimetic tissue engineering scaffolds with tunable mechanical and biological properties. This study employs three unnatural amino acids to modify montmorillonite clay (MMT), producing polymer clay nanocomposites (PCNs) to construct 3D bone-mimetic scaffolds. The modification of MMT clay with 5-aminovaleric acid, (±)-2-aminopimelic acid, and 4-(4-Aminophenyl) butyric acid is analyzed through x-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing changes in the interlayer spacing and functional groups. Molecular modeling elucidates the interaction energies in the amino acid intercalated nanoclays that influence the mechanical properties of the scaffolds. 4-(4-Aminophenyl) butyric acid-modified scaffolds exhibited the highest compressive strength, highlighting the critical influence of molecular interactions on the mechanical properties of the PCN. Despite being a small fraction of the scaffold, the presence and type of amino acids significantly affect the scaffold mechanical properties. Cell viability assays affirm biocompatibility of scaffolds. The amino acids within the nanoclays also impact mineralization on scaffolds seeded with human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Amino acid type also influences the amount of mineralization in the scaffolds. A sequential culture involving hMSCs and breast cancer cells (MCF-7) on the scaffold mimics breast cancer metastasis to bone. Enhanced mineralization by bone cells in the presence of MCF-7 cells is observed, emphasizing their osteoblastic characteristics. Hence, 3D scaffolds for bone regeneration and bone metastasis cancer testbeds can exhibit tunable mechanical properties and biological responses though a simulation guided choice of unnatural amino acids.

Near-surface mounted-FRP flexural retrofitting of concrete members using nanomaterial-modified epoxy adhesives

This study, serving as the first of its kind in this scope, investigates the effectiveness of nanomaterial-modified epoxy adhesives (NMEAs) for Near-Surface Mounted (NSM)-FRP flexural retrofitting of concrete. A total of 48 concrete prisms were retrofitted using three different types of FRP reinforcement bars (CFRP, GFRP and BFRP) inserted in grooves sized 8 × 8, 10 × 10 or 12 × 12 mm and bonded to the concrete substrate using either neat epoxy (NE) or NMEAs. NMEAs were developed by incorporating either carbon-based (i.e. CNF, cellulose and graphite) or silicon-based (i.e. silica and MMT clay) nanoparticles into epoxy at 0.1 wt. %, whereas the graphite NMEAs were prepared with more wt.% (i.e. 0.2 and 0.3). SEM and XRD techniques were used to assess the dispersion quality of nanoparticles within the matrix along with the porosity and crystallinity percentages of the NMEAs. Results showed that using silica, clay and graphite NMEAs rather than NE enhanced the retrofitted concrete capacities, whereas a decrease in strength was observed when using CNF- and cellulose-modified epoxies. Moreover, it was found that the specimens bonded with silicon-based NMEAs had, on average, higher capacities than those bonded with carbon-based NMEAs, which, on the other hand, showed more ductile behaviour. Results also suggested that the specimens’ capacities decreased as the wt. % concentration of the nanoparticles (i.e. graphite) increased. Increasing the groove size from 8 × 8 mm to 10 × 10 mm decreased the capacities but enhanced the ductility, whereas increases in both the capacities and ductility were achieved when moving from 8 × 8 mm to 12 × 12 mm.

Montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay in smart coatings for corrosion protection of metal alloy: a brief review

Montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay is a natural raw material naturally occurring 2-dimensional lamellar silicate material. Many advantages of MMT clay are low cost, high dispersion properties, good mechanical properties, hydrophobic, good shield against corrosive media, non-toxic, easily accessible, and most importantly, it is natural. MMT was mainly used as an additive with other active smart materials to enhance the excellent properties for smart coatings. However, there is not much research done from the last 5 years regarding MMT in smart coating for corrosion protection. The discussion regarding MMT for corrosion protection is also contradict between each research. This paper provides a brief review on MMT clay in smart coatings and its advantages for corrosion protection for the last 5 years. There are also some drawbacks of MMT in smart coatings discussed at the end. Further research needs to be done as MMT has more potential that can be used in the real-world industries and to clarify the contradiction of statement existed in much research.

Fabrication of Bio-Nanocomposite Packaging Films with PVA, MMt Clay Nanoparticles, CNCs, and Essential Oils for the Postharvest Preservation of Sapota Fruits.

Sapota is an important climacteric fruit with limited shelf life. A special system must be employed to extend the shelf life of sapota fruits. In the present study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and montmorillonite clay (MMt)-based bio-nanocomposite films (BNFs) were integrated at various concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) into cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), produced from garlic peels (GPs). The BNF loaded with 8% CNC has a better crystallinity index and mechanical properties than the other concentrations of CNC. Therefore, the 8% CNC-incorporated BNF (BNF-8) was selected for further packaging studies. The combined effect of BNF-8 with ajwain essential oil (AO) and oregano essential oil (OO) vapors and BNF-8 with carbendazim (commercial fungicide-CARB) were investigated. In this study, the BNF-based packagings are categorized into five types, viz: BNF+8% CNC (BNF-8), BNF-8+AO, BNF-8+OO, BNF-8+CARB and the non-packaged fruits (control). The shelf-life duration, antioxidant activity, firmness, decay index, and sensory quality were evaluated in order to identify the effectiveness of packaging treatment on sapota fruits. BNF-8+CARB, BNF-8+AO, and BNF-8+OO packaging extended the shelf life of sapota fruits to up to 12 days and maintained the overall physiochemical parameters and sensory qualities of the fruits. Therefore, the BNF-8+AO and BNF-8+OO packaging materials are appropriate alternatives to commercial fungicides for the preservation of sapota during postharvest storage.

Extraction and characterization of modified algae derivative cellulose and its mixtures for dye removal

A new bio-sorbent derived from green algae biomass, Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina), was found to be economically practical for water decontamination. This biosorbent comprised of microalgae cellulose, poly(lactic acid) (PLA), Dabai activated carbon (AC), and montmorillonite (MMT), each plays a distinctive role in removing methylene blue (MB) dye. The presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups in algae cellulose, confirmed by the FTIR analysis, offered binding sites for dye removal. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated the morphological structure of the biosorbent, highlighting the combined effect of microalgae cellulose, PLA, Dabai AC, and MMT mixtures. The inclusion of Dabai AC and MMT improved micropores and mesopores, enhancing adsorption reactions. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis confirmed that the sample containing microalgae cellulose, Dabai AC, and MMT clay in PLA had a specific surface area of 0.784 m2/g, three times higher than the PLA + cellulose sample. Additionally, adding 1% MMT to the sample improved the particle dispersion on the surface of the hydrophobic PLA, thereby improving its thermal properties. Remarkably, the biosorbent effectively eliminated 86.8% of MB dye from an initial concentration of 50 mg/L after 60 min of Vis-light irradiation using Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy.

Electronic Structure and Mechanical Properties of Solvated Montmorillonite Clay Using Large-Scale DFT Method

Montmorillonite clay (MMT) has been widely used in engineering and environmental applications as a landfill barrier and toxic waste repository due to its unique property as an expandable clay mineral that can absorb water easily. This absorption process rendered MMT to be highly exothermic due to electrostatic interactions among molecules and hydrogen bonds between surface atoms. A detailed study of a large supercell model of structural clay enables us to predict long-term nuclear waste storage. Herein, a large solvent MMT model with 4071 atoms is studied using ab initio density functional theory. The DFT calculation and analysis clarify the important issues, such as bond strength, solvation effect, elasticity, and seismic wave velocities. These results are compared to our previous study on crystalline MMT (dry). The solvated MMT has reduced shear modulus (G), bulk modulus (K), and Young’s modulus (E). We observe that the conduction band (CB) in the density of states (DOS) of solvated MMT model has a single, conspicuous peak at −8.5 eV. Moreover, the atom-resolved partial density of states (PDOS) summarizes the roles played by each atom in the DOS. These findings illuminate numerous potential sophisticated applications of MMT clay.

An overview of medical applications of montmorillonite clay

Clays are among the most important material available in nature. Montmorillonite MMT is an important type of clay mineral whose physical structure is typically perceptible as layers and sheets. Each layer is made up of one octahedral and two tetrahedral structural sheets. Due to its distinctive properties, such as swelling and adsorption, MMT has been used in a variety of industrial and therapeutic applications. The high adsorption capacity of MMT contributes to increasing drug intercalation and then its sustained release. By strongly adhering to the drug, MMT typically maintains drug release in many formulations and speeds up the solubility and bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. MMT has also been used to develop composite delivery systems that combine it with other polymer-based materials. MMT could therefore be used to develop a variety of drug delivery systems to regulate and enhance a drug's pharmacological qualities, such as solubility, dissolution rate, and absorption. An important note to mention is that clays in general are traditionally considered bio-inert or even biocompatible. In this review, the distinguished applications of MMT clay as an agent in the medical field were discussed. Among those applications is its use as an antibacterial agent, detoxification agent, preventive obesity agent, drug carrier agent, and in the treatment of cancer, diarrhea, wounds, and bones.

DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PH-RESPONSIVE POLYMERIC MICROBEADS INTERCALATED WITH MONTMORILLONITE FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE OF DOXORUBICIN

Objective: The aim of the present study is to develop pH-responsive polymeric microbeads for controlled release of doxorubicin. Methods: Doxorubicin-encapsulated polymeric microbeads were developed by a simple ionotropic gelation method using sodium alginate, gum ghatti, and montmorillonite (MMT). In this work, we investigate the positive benefits of MMT mineral as a drug carrier for the controlled release of DOX. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the generated microbeads. The influence of hetero-ionic concentration on drug encapsulation efficiency and drug release from microbeads was examined. In vitro release and swelling studies were performed at pH 2.0 and 7.4 at 37 °C. The cytotoxicity of the developed microbeads was studied using in vitro cultures of the human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). Results: FTIR confirms the generation of microbeads and also the interaction between the polymer matrix, DOX and MMT clay. XRD analysis reveals the molecular dispersion of DOX and the presence of MMT in the polymeric matrix. SEM studies reveal the developed microbeads are spherical in shape with rough surfaces. Swelling and in vitro release studies are dependent on the pH of the test medium, which may be favorable for intestinal drug delivery. MTT results reveal that the developed microbeads showed good in vitro toxicity against MCF-7 cells. The drug release kinetics of the generated microbeads are followed by both the higuchi and korsmeyer-peppas models. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the DOX-encapsulated microbeads are promising carriers for drug delivery applications. The fabricated microbeads further needs warrant for drug delivery applications.

Mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of low-density polyethylene nanocomposites reinforced with montmorillonite: Fabrication and characterizations

Nanoparticle incorporation in polymeric matrices to generate polymer nanocomposite with the intention of maximizing the “nano-effect” derived from the nanoparticles and minimizing the drawbacks of the polymer is an emerging field of research. In this study, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) was mixed with varying concentrations of montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclays to create a polymer nanocomposite with desirable characteristics. Composite sheets with nanoclays contents of (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 wt%) were prepared for hardness, tensile-fractography, thermal conductivity, and tensile testing (elongation and stress-at-break). The results showed that, according to scanning electron microscope (SEM) study, LDPE has a low flexibility temperature and is prone to corrosion. For larger MMT filler loadings (>3% wt), tensile-fractography showed nanoclays particle micro-aggregation. The pure LDPE sample fracture’s tensile-fractography showed plastic deformation. MMT/LDPE samples with 3% wt hard MMT filler have brittle fractures without appreciable plastic deformation. Thermal conductivity test results show that LDPE/MMT composite thermal conductivity decreased with increasing clay concentration. The thermal conductivity values were reduced from a value of 0.13 W/m.K to a value of 0.039 W/m.K when reinforced with 0% wt to 3% wt filler loading, respectively. With 4% wt filler loading, LDPE/MMT composites had the highest shore hardness at 47.4. Yet, tensile tests indicated that increasing clay content improved the composite’s characteristics. At modest loading percentages (1–2 wt%), tensile results were excellent. Furthermore, the elongation at break of the unadulterated LDPE was reduced by 20% and 30% after introducing 1% wt and 2% wt of MMT as reinforcement additives, respectively. Hence, MMT clay can improve the mechanical properties and thermal insulation of LDPE polymer matrix.

Coating of Epoxy resin and MMT Clay Nano-composite on Copper and Examination of their Corrosion behaviours in NaCl

Copper (Cu) has high corrosion resistance and does not corrode much in mild environments. However, Cu may face heavy destruction due to fast interactions with aggressive media. This work includes epoxy resin (EP) and montmorillonite (MMT) clay nano-composites (EPMC) coating on Cu and testing of coated Cu in 0.5 M NaCl. The EPMC is prepared by varying concentrations of MMT clay in an epoxy resin matrix. The 1 %, 5 % and 10 % MMT clay are used for making EPMC. The structure and composition of MMT clay is investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). After preparing EPMC, drop casting is used for their coating on Cu. The EPMC-coated Cu and EP-coated Cu are examined by camera images, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Tafel polarisation (TP), open circuit potential (OCP) monitoring and FESEM. The results have announced that EPMC-coated Cu is showing greater corrosion resistance in NaCl. The maximum prevention is achieved with EPMC having 5 % MMT clay. The reason for prevention is the efficient blockage of Cu surface exposed in NaCl by EPMC.

Ru Nanoparticle Intercalated Montmorillonite Clay Catalytic System for the Reduction of Aliphatic/Aromatic Nitro Compounds

Abstract: The Ru exchanged MMT clay was synthesized with different Ru metal stacking using the wet impregnation method. All the developed materials were analyzed with advanced analytical techniques. All the data were found in good agreement with each other. Furthermore, all the catalysts were tested for the reduction of aromatic and aliphatic nitro compounds to the corresponding amines in conventional and ionic liquid reaction mediums. The amines were easily isolated with simple ether washing in ionic liquid medium, and the catalyst was recycled up to 8 times. Various amines were also synthesized using the proposed methodology, having direct importance as building blocks of several biologically active compounds.

Preparation of Laser-Ablated Ag Nanoparticle-MMT Clay-Based Beeswax Antibiofilm Coating.

Unlike other antimicrobial agents, Ag-based composites are stable and currently widely used as broad spectral additives, fighting microbial biofilms and other biological threats. The goal of the present study is to develop a green, multifunctional, and robust antibiofilm water-insoluble coating, inhibiting histamine-producing Lentilactobacillus parabuchneri biofilms. Herein, laser-ablated Ag NPs (L-Ag NPs) were incorporated into and onto a montmorillonite (MMT) surface layer with a simple wet chemical method, provided that the electrostatic interaction between L-Ag NPs and MMT clay led to the formation of L-Ag/MMT nanoantimicrobials (NAMs). The use of MMT support can facilitate handling Ag NPs in industrial applications. The Ag/MMT composite was characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which confirmed the entrapment of L-Ag NPs into MMT clay. The surface chemical composition was assessed with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, proving that Ag NPs were in contact with and deposited onto the surface of MMT. The characteristic L-Ag/MMT band was investigated with UV-vis spectroscopy. Following that, the L-Ag/MMT composite was embedded into a biosafe water-insoluble beeswax agent with a spin coating technique. The antimicrobial ion release kinetic profile of the L-Ag/MMT/beeswax coating through an electrothermal atomic absorption spectroscopy (ETAAS) study supported the controlled release of Ag ions, reaching a plateau at 420 ± 80 nM, which is safe from the point of view of Ag toxicity. Microbial biofilm growth inhibition was assessed with real-time in situ Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) in a flow cell assembly over 32 h. The study was further supported by optical density (OD) measurements and SEM on bacteria incubated in the presence of the L-Ag/MMT/beeswax coating.

Development of nanoclay-based nanocomposite surfaces with antibacterial properties for potential biomedical applications

Biofilm formation on biomedical implant surfaces requires bacterial adhesion, which increases the risk of infection and chronic inflammation. Since intercalation of quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) into montmorillonite (MMT) clay, known as organoclays, has been reported to increase surface broad-spectrum antibacterial properties, we aimed to develop an antibacterial surface composed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) embedded with bentonite and MMT clay containing QAS to prevent initial bacterial attachment. We evaluated its potential application in reducing bacterial adhesion and enhancing bacteria-killing properties using Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. Our results demonstrated that the nanoclay-embedded TPU surfaces with QAS significantly reduced the adhesion of E. coli and S. aureus by 68.82% and 65.18%, respectively, compared to the plain TPU surfaces. Additionally, a higher nanoclay concentration coating on the surface could enhance its effectiveness, as shown by 85.34% and 82.74% reduction in E. coli and S. aureus adhesion and killing efficiency. Furthermore, we observed that nanoclay-embedded TPU surfaces had no detrimental effects on the viability of human dermal fibroblasts. Taken together, these techniques could provide novel strategies for inhibiting bacterial adhesion and supporting bacteria killing on biomedical implant surfaces, as the investigated surfaces are simple to synthesize, efficient, and cost-effective.

The Conductivity Enhancement of 1.5Li2O-P2O5 Solid Electrolytes by Montmorillonite Addition

Most solid electrolyte materials have not shown enough conductivity to be used as an electrolyte for a battery in electronic devices. The mixture of 1.5 Li2O and P2O5 has been reported to show a good conductivity higher than that of Li3PO4, which is thought to be due to phase mixtures that are formed during manufacturing process. Montmorillonite (MMT) was used to explore the effect of phase mixture on conductivity of new 1.5Li2O-P2O5-MMT solid electrolyte composite, which was prepared through conventional solid-state reaction procedures. This study was conducted, how the addition of MMT affects process of forming 1.5Li2O-P2O5-MMT compound, and whether it influences electrical properties and permittivity of compound. Morphology, hygroscopicity, and electrochemical characteristics of this material were analyzed in this study. The shape of glassy-like flakes was reduced in micrographs, and granular lumps were getting larger as MMT was added. Addition also tended to reduce hygroscopicity, as indicated by a reduced rate of porous absorption. Whole Nyquist plot consisted of only one imperfect semicircular arc, indicating only one relaxation process occurred in materials. Capacitance of all arcs indicated main contribution of response was from bulk material. Slope of dielectric loss of samples indicated that conduction in the samples was mainly dominated by dc conduction. MMT clays acted as a medium that absorbed liquid phase in solid-state reaction, increasing formation of dominant phase, which determined total conductivity of compound. Conductivity was higher than that of Li4P2O7, where the sample of 20 wt% MMT addition was most polarizable and most dielectric compound.

Tribology analysis of MMT nanoclay alkali-treated coconut sheath reinforced hybrid composite

This research paper focuses on the tribology analysis of MMT - Montmorillonite nanoclay alkali-treated coconut sheath reinforced hybrid composite. The study aims to analyze the mechanical properties of coconut sheath reinforced polymer composites as compared to traditional synthetic fibers. The specific impact of MMT clay on the material’s mechanical properties is also considered. The experimental method involves the use of compression molding for fabrication, and various treatments are applied to the coconut sheath to improve its mechanical properties. The microstructure, tensile, flexural, and impact characterization of the specimens are analyzed. The results indicate that alkali-treated coconut sheath outperforms untreated coconut sheath in terms of surface quality. Additionally, the addition of MMT clay improves the bonding and surface area coverage, resulting in better mechanical properties. However, the brittleness of the treated coconut sheath specimen increased, reducing its energy absorption in impact tests. Overall, the study highlights the potential of coconut sheath as a natural fiber reinforcement for polymer composites and the impact of MMT clay on its mechanical properties.

Formulation of promising antibacterial, anticancer, biocompatible and bioactive biomaterial as therapeutic drug delivery system for biologically active compound loaded on clay polymer

The synthesized heterocyclic compound: 5-[4-bromobenzylidene amino)-1, 3, 4-thiadiazole-2-thiol abbreviated as BATT possessed good antibacterial activity for various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. In addition to potent antitumor activity to breast cancer, for the first time, the novelty of this study is facile low-cost formulation of safe antitumor drug delivery system (DDS) for breast cancer from such simple heterocyclic compound. Heterocyclic compound is efficiently and spontaneously incorporated into MMT clay polymer matrix forming novel therapeutic nanocomposite DDS for breast cancer. BATT successfully intercalates MMT clay polymer matrix. Electron donation ability of nanocomposites is confirmed by cyclic voltammetry in terms of small peak-to-peak redox potential Delta E_{{{text{peak}}}}. Adsorption of BATT on clay is carried out by batch adsorption method. Better adsorption strength at low pH 2 decreased with increasing pH. Adsorption data are analyzed by multiple mathematical models. MMT clay is an efficient carrier polymer heterogonous adsorbent for BATT at optimum conditions: contact time 2.0 h, pH 2 and initial concentration up to 1200 ppm. Adsorption rate constant, k2 equals 14.6 times 10–3 and qe 19 mg g−1 (R2 0.999). pH of zero charge of MMT at pH 3 reflected adsorption mechanism of MMT. At pH 2, BATT is loaded on MMT by physi- and chemisorption. At pH 4, BATT is loaded on MMT by chemisorption.

Adsorption of cytosine on prebiotic siliceous clay surface induced with metal dications: Relevance to origin of life

Adsorption of protobiomolecules on primigenial mineral surfaces transacts a very specific and selective role in prebiotic chemical evolution. Cytosine (CYN) is a core constituent of genetic macromolecules i.e., DNA and RNA. A prebiotic simulation experiment following adsorption behaviour of a nucleic acid base CYN, as a function of pH, concentration, time and temperature on the surface of Montmorillonite (MMT), a prominent siliceous clay of smectite group having specific surface area, was studied systematically and methodically using UV, FTIR, SEM and XRD. Biologically significant metal dication [M2+ = Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe2+ and Cu2+] embeded surfaces of MMT (MMT-M2+) were prepared separately by cation-exchange approach. Results observed through UV spectral data reveal a very significant role of metal ions on the quantity of CYN adsorbed on different solid surfaces. The adsorption behaviour fitted well with Langmuir isotherm model and the adsorption isotherm shows monolayer formation of CYN (as adsorbate) on the surface of MMT and MMT-M2+(as adsorbent) showing Langmuir type adsorption. The calculated Langmuir adsorption parameters (KL& Xm) delineate appreciable interaction of CYN on MMT-Fe2+ surface following MMT-Cu2+ as compared to MMT alone and to other metal induced MMTs.In terms of % binding and Xm data, the effectiveness of various adsorbents in adsorption of CYN on MMT/MMT-M2+ at pH 6.6 and temperature 298K was found in the order; MMT-Fe2+> MMT-Cu2+> MMT > MMT-Ca2+> MMT-Mg2+. The results were further confirmed by SEM, XRD and FTIR which also support the outcomes. The present work throws light on the affinity of MMT clay (having multifarious applications in biological systems) with and without biogenic metal diions towards the surface interaction of nucleic acid base mimicking primeval sea shore/sea bed or hydrothermal vent conditions deciphering the phenomena that how biomonomers could have been protected from extreme hazardous conditions of primitive Earth and stabilized during chemical evolution and availed them for consecutive molecular evolution. Results further embark better adsorption capability of transition metal ion incorporated MMTs than the clay without metal ion and exchanged with alkaline Earth dications.