Monolithic Materials Research Articles

Evaluation of aroma characteristics of Penaeus vannamei with different drying methods using HS-SPME-GC-MS, MMSE-GC-MS, and sensory evaluation

The effects of microwave drying (MD), hot air drying (HAD), vacuum hot air drying (VD), and vacuum freeze drying (VFD) on the volatile profiles of Penaeus vannamei were investigated. A total of 89 and 94 volatile compounds were identified by headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC–MS) and monolithic material sorptive extraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (MMSE-GC–MS), respectively. Orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and variable influence on projection (VIP) models were utilized to select characteristic volatiles and key marker compounds (e.g., octanal, 1-octen-3-ol, 2-methyl-butanal, 2-ethyl-furan, and trimethyl-pyrazine) to discriminate among four drying methods. Based on synthesis of odor descriptions and sensory evaluation, it was found that P. vannamei via MD, HAD, and VD greatly reduced the fishy and generated roasted, fatty, and smoked odors. This study systematically analyzed the aroma characteristics of four traditional dried P. vannamei products, which may provide theoretical guidance for industrial production.

DYNAMIC MECHANICAL AND STATIC ANALYSIS OF KEVLAR FIBER REINFORCED EPOXY COMPOSITES INCORPORATED WITH EGG SHELL PARTICLE

Research on composite material has been carried out stringently by using various reinforcing elements in the matrix with an intend to replace traditional monolithic materials eventually. In this regard, the Calcium-rich egg shell, which is abundantly available as a solid waste, can be used as a possible filler material for reducing material cost, improving processability, and refining the requisite properties of composite for specific applications with simultaneous reduction of the waste. In this study, the static and dynamic mechanical characteristics of eggshell particle-filled Kevlar/epoxy composites have been investigated. Through stirring with the aid of an Ultrasonicator, different weight percent of NaOH-treated eggshell particles (0, 10, 20 wt. %) of 90 micron sizes are mixed with epoxy to fabricate the composite using the traditional hand-layup method. In comparison to the hybrid composites, the mechanical properties of Kevlar/epoxy (0 wt. % filler) composite demonstrate superior tensile and flexural strength and modulus. However, when the Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) are accomplished for evaluating the thermal deterioration and viscoelastic characteristics, the hybrid composites demonstrated improvement in overall damping properties including storage modulus and loss modulus along with the thermal stability characteristics. Also, the elongation before failure is more for composite with 10 wt. % (71%) as well as 20 wt.% (18%) filler content with substantial improvement in Inter Laminar Shear Strength. Thus, the presently prepared composite is recommended for weight-sensitive and high-performance engineering applications under elevated temperatures and intense dynamic loading.

Fast Emitting Nanocomposites for High‐Resolution ToF‐PET Imaging Based on Multicomponent Scintillators

AbstractTime‐of‐Flight Positron Emission Tomography (ToF‐PET) is a medical imaging technique, based on the detection of two back‐to‐back γ‐photons generated from radiotracers injected into the body. Its limit is the ability of employed scintillation detectors to discriminate in time the arrival of γ‐pairs, that is, the coincidence time resolution (CTR). A CTR < 50 ps will enable fast imaging with ultralow radiotracer dose. Monolithic materials do not have simultaneously the required high light output and fast emission characteristics, thus the concept of scintillating heterostructure is proposed, where the device is made of a dense scintillator coupled to a fast‐emitting light material. Here a composite polymeric scintillator loaded with hafnium oxide nanoparticles is presented. This enhanced by +300% its scintillation yield, by surpassing commercial plastic scintillators. The nanocomposite is coupled to bismuth germanate oxide (BGO) realizing a multilayer metascintillator. The energy sharing between its components is observed, which activates the nanocomposite's fast emission enabling a net CTR improvement of 25% with respect to monolithic BGO. These results demonstrate that a controlled loading with dense nanomaterials is an excellent strategy to enhance the performance of polymeric scintillators for their use in advanced radiation detection and imaging technologies.

Low-resistance and high-tolerance monolithic spiro-bifluorene-based conjugated microporous polymer for co-capture of PM and CO2 in waste gas

The utilization of solid adsorbents for the co-capture of harmful particulate matter (PM) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in industrial exhaust streams represents a crucial component within the emerging field of waste gas terminal treatment technologies. Extensive research has focused on particulate or powdered adsorbents rather than monolithic materials, whereas monolithic adsorbents exhibit superior advantages in practical industrial applications. Herein, a monolithic spiro-bifluorene-based conjugated micro-porous polymer (DS-CMPs) with hierarchical porous and functionalized hollow nanotube structures was proposed. The favorable characteristics exhibited by DS-CMPs encompass a highly delocalized π-π conjugated skeleton, permanent porosity, unique thermal and chemical stability, precisely defined chemical composition, and excellent water vapor tolerance. These inherent qualities guarantee that DS-CMPs employed for the co-capture of PM and CO2 from exhaust gases exhibit exceptional capture efficiency, low permeation resistance, favorable isosteric heat of adsorption (Qst), and recyclability. The reasons behind the high capture efficiency and low permeation resistance of monolithic DS-CMPs were analyzed through mechanistic exploration and Electrostatic Surface Potential (ESP) calculations. Moreover, the stability inherent in the framework structure and physicochemical properties of DS-CMPs can surmount the notable decline in the capturing capability of porous materials utilized within damp and elevated temperature surroundings. Following exposure to elevated humidity (RH = 86 ± 1 %) and high-temperature (500 ℃) conditions, DS-CMPs exhibited a remarkable capture efficiency exceeding 99.00 % for PM2.5. The self-assembly of monolithic DS-CMPs into a smooth array of nanotube bundles effectively reduces the friction between airflow and material, enhances airflow dispersion, and achieves a minimum permeability resistance of only 8 Pa. At a pressure of 1 bar and temperature of 273 K, the CO2 adsorption capacity of DS-CMPs amounts to 2.72 mmol/g. The high absorption capacity for CO2 is primarily attributed to the presence of a significant microporous/mesoporous ratio and notable surface charge differences. In contrast to powdered adsorbents plagued by sample elution and gas pressure drop issues, the monolithic DS-CMPs showcases good mechanical properties, rendering them readily applicable within industrial bed circulation systems to achieve the co-capture of PM and CO2.

Use of Ultra-Translucent Monolithic Zirconia as Esthetic Dental Restorative Material: A Narrative Review

It has been observed in recent years that zirconia (Zr) is being increasingly used for a wide range of clinical applications. There are several reasons for this, but the most significant one is its excellent mechanical properties, specifically its transformation toughening properties compared to other dental ceramics and its improved natural appearance when compared to ceramometal restorations. As a result of the advancement of chairside milling and developments in rapid-sintering technology, the fabrication of dental restorations has become more computerized, time-saving, and accurate over the past few decades. However, a main disadvantage of conventional Zr restorations is that they lack the translucency of glass–ceramics, although they are extremely strong. Recently, by increasing the yttrium %, changing the grain size, and reducing the impurities, the ultra-translucent monolithic zirconia “5-mol%-yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals” has been introduced, with successful attempts to make translucent Zr an aesthetically attractive option for minimally invasive veneer restorations. It is important to note that veneer restorations do not possess the mechanical retentive features of the tooth preparations and rely primarily on bonding to resin cement. This presents a great challenge for the inert Zr since it does not bond chemically with resin cement, unlike glass–ceramic materials that establish chemical adhesion with resin cement, favoring their use for indirect veneer restorations. Taking this into account, this article aims to review the progressive development of ultra-translucent monolithic Zr materials as they are available today and, in the future, represents a concerted drive toward maximum translucency and strength, which renders them a viable treatment option for esthetic veneer restorations.

Study of Stir Casting and Microstructure of Al-B<sub>4</sub>C MMCs

The economic, performance, and environmental advantages of accepting Aluminium (Al) metal matrix composites (MMCs) over steel, cast iron and light alloys are driving forces behind their utilisation. The transportation industry benefits from reduced noise, reduced emissions from airplanes, and reduced fuel use. Continuous research in this field has resulted in improved manufacturing procedures, allowing these Aluminium based composite materials to be used in aerospace industry, marine and vehicle applications rather than most monolithic materials. The industrial sector is rapidly developing, which increases demand for innovative materials. In cases where 'wear' is a critical issue, conservative materials and alloys have limits in reaching the appropriate hard characteristic. Al-MMCs are composite materials that contain Al or an alloy of Al. It acts as the matrix and the reinforcement distributed across the matrix. Common reinforcing materials include fibres, whiskers, and particles. Because of its enhanced density, great hardness, and thermal stability, ceramic reinforcement is the most used. However, they have limits such as less ability to wet and compatibility with the Al matrix. The major production processes for Al-MMCs are powder and liquid metallurgy. All the manufacturing procedures outlined are appropriate, however casting with stir to mix is cost-effective, particularly for big production runs. The distribution of reinforcement evenly to generate a flaw-free structure at micro level and hence raise the resistance to hard behaviour is a critical difficulty in the synthesis of MMCs of Al. Al-MMCs with particle reinforcement have increased mechanical characteristics and wear resistance. Furthermore, the production of MMCs reinforced with particulates is an exciting task, with questions arising due to ductility decline as the weight percent of ceramic particulate reinforcement is increased, gravity segregation due to denser particulates, and oxidation due to the use of Al alloy, which is very susceptible to oxidation. In the present study Al6061-3% B4C MMCs have been developed by stir casting technique. Al6061 is an extruded raw material as purchased from the supplier (and not an ingot) used before remelting and manufacturing the MMCs. The microstructure of the manufactured Al-alloy and Al-MMCs are evaluated. It is observed that stir casting is a suitable method to manufacture Al-MMCs.

Cellulose/GO monolith covered with Pd–Pt bimetallic nanocrystals for continuous-flow catalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium

Cellulose monolith materials have interconnected open porous structures with very high porosity, making them attractive structures for use as support materials in heterogeneous catalysis applications. In this study, we developed a highly efficient and reusable continuous-flow reactor for Cr(VI) remediation by combining the advantageous features of cellulose monoliths with suitable reinforcement techniques. We fabricated a porous monolithic cellulose/graphene oxide (GO) composite with a continuous three-dimensional skeletal framework using the thermally induced phase separation technique. Pd nanocrystals were synthesized in situ on the surface of the composite monolith, and then converted to porous Pd–Pt bimetallic nanocrystals through a galvanic replacement reaction. This approach eliminated the need for additional reductants and stabilizers, making the process simpler and more environmentally friendly. Under carefully optimized conditions, the cellulose/GO/Pd–Pt nanocomposite monolith exhibited outstanding performance in continuous-flow reactions for Cr(VI) reduction, achieving a maximum conversion rate of 98 %. Moreover, the nanocomposite monolith-based heterogeneous catalyst exhibited remarkable long-term stability, maintaining its catalytic activity even after extended periods of storage in the dried state. These findings highlight the potential of cellulose-based composite monoliths as versatile and robust support materials for heterogeneous catalysis.

Shape transformers for crashworthiness of additively manufactured engineering resin lattice structures: Experimental and numerical investigations

Cellular materials have superior specific properties (e.g., specific strength, stiffness, and energy absorption) as compared to their monolithic material counterparts. With rapid advancements in additive manufacturing technology, the uniquely complex geometry of these materials – particularly periodic lattices – can be easily reproduced for additional experimental research, characterization, and potential industrial applications. This work utilizes the idea of shape transformers – previously employed to describe the structural efficiency of beams subjected to bending – to define new strut-based lattices, whose struts do not have the typical solid, circular cross-section shape. Both experimental and numerical model results have shown that this design parameter can be utilized to manipulate the crashworthiness efficiency of lattice materials. It is found that designing with a square or a rectangular cross-section could increase the plateau stress by up to 52% while increasing the mass normalized specific energy absorption by up to 32%.

A four-point bending technique for characterizing the interface fracture toughness between soft thin films and stiff substrates

Interface fracture toughness, also called work of adhesion or adhesion energy, is a quantity characterizing the resistance of an interface between two adhered solids against interfacial delamination. Determining the interface fracture toughness should be of great value to the studies on the related adhesion and delamination problems. Four-point bending test is an experimental approach that was originally used to measure the flexural stiffness and fracture toughness of monolithic materials. It was also used to characterize the fracture toughness of the interface when a bi-layered notched composite beam specimen is adopted (Int. J. Frac. 1989; 40: 235). However, this method does not work very well when a thin and soft material is encountered because the interface delamination cannot be triggered easily. To address this problem, in this paper, we revise the configuration of the four-point bending specimen from bi-layer to tri-layer by imposing an additional stiffer layer on the top of the thin and soft layer. The analytical solution to the energy release rate of the preexisting interfacial crack is revisited. Finite element analysis is carried out to assess the applicability and limitations of the analytical solution. With the modified four-point bending specimen, the interface fracture toughness between an epoxy coating and a steel substrate is successfully measured from the critical load that leads to the delamination of the preexisting interfacial crack.

Thermal Conductivity Gas Sensors for High-Temperature Applications.

This paper describes a fast and flexible microfabrication method for thermal conductivity gas sensors useful in high-temperature applications. The key parts of the sensor, the microheater and the package, were fabricated from glass-coated platinum wire and the combination of laser micromilling (ablation) of already-sintered monolithic ceramic materials and thick-film screen-printing technologies. The final thermal conductivity gas sensor was fabricated in the form of a complete MEMS device in a metal ceramic package, which could be used as a compact miniaturized surface-mounted device for soldering to standard PCB. Functional test results of the manufactured sensor are presented, demonstrating their full suitability for gas sensing applications and indicating that the obtained parameters are at a level comparable to those of standard industrially produced sensors. The results of the design and optimization principles of applied methods are discussed with regard to possible wider applications in thermal gas sensor prototyping in the future. The advantage of the developed sensors is their ability to operate in air environments under high temperatures of 900 °C and above. The sensor element material and package metallization were insensitive to oxidation compared with classical sensor-solution-based metal-glass packages and silicone MEMS membranes, which exhibit mechanical stress at temperatures above 700 °C.

Crashworthiness investigations for 3D printed multi-layer multi-topology carbon fiber nylon lattice materials

Cellular solids have superior energy absorption capabilities as compared to monolithic materials. Within this category of materials, lattice materials are of particular interest since their periodicity offers repeatable – and thus predictable – behavior. In combination with the advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, these lattice materials can be highly customized for a desired response. In this paper, the crashworthiness of unique multi-layer, multi-topology (MLMT) lattices is investigated. First, the nylon-carbon fiber composite material properties within a developed numerical model were tuned based on strut orientation. Then, the response of single-layer and three-layer cubic and octet lattices was investigated, where all lattices were designed with a relative density of 30%. Following the characterization of single-topology lattices, the response of MLMT lattices were investigated. Stress-strain, efficiency-strain, and multiple crashworthiness parameter data was collected for all lattices to facilitate in the comparison of those lattices. It was found that, experimentally, the unique MLMT lattices did not absorb more energy than their constituent layers combined, though modifications to the interface between layers could increase the energy absorption capability; the prediction of energy absorption of the MLMT lattices based on constituent layers was similar to actual numerical results. As all lattices were designed at the same relative density, the mass-specific energy absorption of the cubic-octet-cubic MLMT lattice (1.56 x103 J/kg) outperforms the single-topology octet lattice by 19% to 36% (1.15–1.31 x103 J/kg). While the octet-cubic-octet MLMT lattice (0.71 x103 J/kg) is outperformed by the single-topology cubic lattices (1.69–3.76 x103 J/kg), they see an increase of 59% to 77% in plateau stress (5.1–9.2 MPa) as compared to the MLMT lattice (2.1 MPa).

Topological Conversion of Nickel Foams to Monolithic Single‐Atom Catalysts

AbstractSingle‐atom catalysts have emerged as a promising class of catalysts due to their tailored coordination environments on the support, which can improve a variety of catalytic reactions, making them a highly desirable research subject in materials science with significant potential for industrial applications. However, traditional synthesis methods mainly obtain low‐yield powder catalysts without macroscopic mechanical strength, and also require tedious procedures, limiting their practicability. Here, monolithic carbon fibers are prepared with single atomic Ni sites directly from bulk metal. The synchronous support growth and metal diffusion realizes the effective atomization of nickel foam, and the innovative strategy of topological growth within a confined space results in robust and tough monolith. The application of this single‐atom‐monolith is demonstrated as a free‐standing electrode for highly efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction. The proposed synthesis strategy allows feasible preparation of functional single‐atom catalysts for potential industrial applications with advantages of using low‐cost raw materials, enabling large‐scale production, and providing processable, moldable monolithic materials.

Efficient removal of phenanthrene by covalent organic frameworks: An experimental combined with theoretical analysis

It is essential to find a green, efficient, and economical way to deal with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that have a significant impact on human health and the ecosystem. In this study, two covalent organic frameworks (COFs) were prepared by using the Schiff base reaction for the effective removal of phenanthrene (PHE). The COFs were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, BET, and XPS. Meanwhile, the effects of pH, contact time, and different ionic strengths on the adsorption process were investigated. The results showed that the COFs had good adsorption performance on PHE. The most favorable bonding modes between the two COFs and PHE molecules were calculated and analyzed by Density Functional Theory, and the mechanism was explored in combination with XPS and FT-IR. This work reveals the potential of COFs as efficient adsorbents for the removal of organic pollutants from polluted water and provides further insight into the interactions present in the adsorption process. In addition, with the help of vacuum self-assembly, a simple and scalable strategy to construct assembled COFs membranes (PES@COFs), it was shown that PES@COFs membranes have good retention of PHE present in water and show the advantages of easy handling, better stability, reduced risk of secondary contamination of samples and good reusability. This work highlights the great application potential of COFs for the removal of PHE and demonstrates that the preparation of COFs monolithic materials by vacuum self-assembly is a simple and easy strategy to promote COFs in practical applications.

The metameric effect of monolithic zirconias with varying yttrium ratios.

To evaluate the metameric disparities among monolithic zirconia materials with differing yttrium compositions across various lighting conditions. Thirty-six square-shaped zirconia samples measuring 10 × 10 × 0.5 mm were prepared from monolithic zirconia materials with three different yttrium contents. A 0.2 mm thick layer of polymerized dual-polymerizable self-adhesive resin cement was created using a silicone mold with the same dimensions as the prepared zirconia specimens. To evaluate metamerism, color measurements were conducted using a spectrophotometer device on a neutral gray background in a color measurement cabinet that offers four different illumination environments. All samples underwent aging by subjecting them to 10000 thermal cycles using a thermal cycle tester. Following thermal aging, color measurements were taken once more, and the data were recorded using the CIE L*, a*, b* color system. Two-way ANOVA and Post-hoc Bonferroni tests were employed to analyze the data. It was observed that there was no statistical difference among the color measurements made in different illumination environments of the monolithic zirconia ceramics used to evaluate metamerism (P > .05). This observation remained consistent both before and after thermal aging. After thermal aging, the color of monolithic zirconia materials exhibited a tendency towards red and yellow hues, accompanied by a decrease in brightness levels. It can be stated that different illumination conditions did not affect the metamerism of monolithic zirconia materials, but there was a color change in monolithic zirconia materials after a thermal aging period equivalent to one year.

Evaluation of Marginal and Internal Adaptation of Crowns Fabricated with Three Different Zirconia CAD/CAM Materials.

Marginal and internal adaptation are key factors that determine the clinical success of dental restorations. The aim of this study is to evaluate the marginal and internal fit of crowns fabricated with three different CAD-CAM zirconia materials; two monolithic zirconia materials and one veneered zirconia copings in comparison with conventional metal-ceramic crowns. Ninety-six extracted molars (n = 96) were selected. Teeth were randomly divided into four groups (n = 24), and the following restorations were fabricated: Metal-ceramic crowns (Control group) (Group CG); monolithic zirconia crowns (GC initial) (Group MZ1); monolithic zirconia crowns (InCoris TZI),(Group MZ2); bilayered zirconia crowns, cores (InCoris ZI) veneered with a low-fusing glass-ceramic (IPS Emax Ceram),(Group BZ). Internal and marginal adaptations were evaluated using the silicone replica technique. A total of 20 points were recorded for every tooth under the light microscope at 20x magnifications. Results were compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the posthoc Tukey's test at a significance level of 0.01. Marginal, marginal-internal, axial, and occlusal gaps between CG, MZ1, MZ2, and BZ crowns showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.01). Monolithic zirconia groups showed better marginal adaptation compared with the veneered zirconia crowns.

Exploring the Biomechanical Factors Influencing the Success of Combined Prosthodontics and Implant Treatments, Including Load Distribution, Stress Distribution, and Material Selection

Abstract Background: The success of combined prosthodontics and implant treatments is influenced by various biomechanical factors, including load distribution, stress distribution, and material selection. These factors play a critical role in determining the longevity and functionality of implant-supported prosthetic restorations. Aim: This study aimed to explore the biomechanical factors influencing the success of combined prosthodontics and implant treatments, focusing on load distribution, stress distribution, and material selection. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with a sample size of 30 patients requiring implant-supported prosthetic restorations. Standard titanium implants were placed, followed by the application of prosthetic components fabricated from materials such as zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, monolithic zirconia, and composite resin. Cone-beam computed tomography and finite element analysis were used to assess the load and stress distribution. Intraoral sensors measured occlusal load, and data were collected at 3, 6, and 12 months post-prosthesis placement. Results: Posterior mandibular implants exhibited the highest mean occlusal load (220 N), with a significant variability among patients. Zirconia and monolithic zirconia prosthetics demonstrated the lowest mean stress (750 and 700 MPa, respectively) and no fracture incidents, whereas composite resin showed the highest mean stress (900 MPa) and the most fractures. These findings highlight the importance of appropriate material selection and biomechanical planning to prevent implant overload and prosthetic failure. Conclusion: Biomechanical factors, including load and stress distribution, along with careful material selection, are crucial for the success of implant-supported prosthetic restorations. Posterior regions, especially the mandible, require meticulous planning to distribute the occlusal forces evenly. Zirconia and monolithic zirconia materials are recommended for high-load areas due to their superior mechanical properties and fracture resistance.

Effect of two sintering protocols on translucency and flexural strength of different monolithic zirconia materials: An In vitro study

Effect of two sintering protocols on translucency and flexural strength of different monolithic zirconia materials: An In vitro study

Synthesis of zeolite materials based on dispersed microspheres from fly ash from coal combustion and their sorption properties in relation to Pb(II) and Cd(II)

The influence of the composition of two narrow fractions of dispersed microspheres from fly ash from coal combustion and synthesis conditions on the production of microspherical monozeolite materials of a certain structural type was studied. The possibility of using synthesis products as Pb2+ and Cd2+ sorbents was assessed. It has been established that zeolitization products based on microspheres with a high content of glass phase (more than 90 wt. %) are monolithic solid materials of the geopolymer type, consisting of agglomerated microsphere residues and zeolite phases and, depending on the synthesis temperature, contain mainly one zeolite phase – NaX (FAU), NaP1 (GIS) or analcime (ANA). A simultaneous increase in the alkali concentration and the temperature of hydrothermal treatment led to a deeper transformation of glass microspheres and partial agglomeration of product particles with the formation of granules up to 100 microns in size. The product of alkaline activation of microspheres with a lower glass phase content (~65 wt. %) is a dispersed material based on unreacted microspheres, zeolite phases, mullite and quartz. Most zeolite products in the low Pb2+ and Cd2+ concentration range (not higher than 20 mg/l) were characterized by high solution purification parameters – KD up to 105 ml/g, the degree of extraction was up to 99%, while the most effective were sorbents based on zeolite phases NaP1 and analcime. Sorption isotherms of Pb2+ and Cd2 were approximated using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models. It has been established that the sorption of heavy metals from dilute solutions is best described by the Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich models. It has been shown that Pb2+/Cd2+ exchange forms of zeolite materials as a result of thermal exposure at 1000 оC undergo a phase transformation with the formation of mineral-like feldspar phases including lead (PbAl2Si2O8) or cadmium (CdAl2Si2O8).

Monolithic Cu/Al2O3-palygorskite composite aerogel for high-efficiency iodine elimination in a multimedia environment

Radioactive iodine has highly radioactive and biological toxicity, and its effective recovery is of primary importance. However, few materials can show good iodine adsorption in different media. Herein, Cu/Al2O3-Pal aerogels with improved mechanical properties and hierarchical pore structures were prepared by constructing the three-dimensional support skeleton of the aerogel with palygorskite fibers. The Cu/Al2O3-Pal aerogel exhibited excellent adsorption properties for I− (aqueous phase, 264–411 mg/g) and I2 (organic phase, 503–744 mg/g), I2 vapor (459–1122 mg/g), and CH3I vapor (559–1032 mg/g). Notably, the aerogel also exhibited ultra-high removal rates for trace iodide in solution (>90 %) and was able to efficiently convert to stable CuI. Importantly, the Cu/Al2O3-Pal aerogel can be prepared directly for use as a monolithic material, allowing for an easy recovery process. Overall, our work demonstrates the great potential of Cu/Al2O3-Palx wt% aerogels for radioactive iodine elimination.

Oxygen vacancy-rich Ag/CuO nanoarray mesh fabricated by laser ablation for efficient bacterial inactivation

The contamination of drinking water by microbes is a critical health concern, underscoring the need for safe, reliable, and efficient methods to treat pathogenic microorganisms. While most sterilization materials are available in powder form, this presents safety risks and challenges in recycling. Herein, this study reports the preparation of an innovative copper oxide supported silver monolithic nanoarray mesh with abundant oxygen vacancies (Ag/CuO-VO) by laser ablation. The instantaneous high temperature caused by laser ablation preserves the material's original structure while generating oxygen vacancies on the CuO surface. The Ag/CuO-VO mesh demonstrated a remarkable ability to inactivate over 99% of Escherichia coli (E. Coli) within 20 min. The oxygen vacancies in the Ag/CuO-VO enhance interactions between oxygen species and the Ag/CuO-VO, leading to the accumulation of large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The generated ROS effectively disrupt both layers of the bacterial cell wall - the peptidoglycan and the phospholipid - as confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, culminating in cell death. This research presents a monolithic material capable of inactivating pathogenic microorganisms efficiently, offering a significant advancement in water sterilization technology.