Morphological Properties Research Articles

Commercial organomineral fertilizer produced through granulation of a blend of monoammonium phosphate and pulp and paper industry waste post-composting

This study investigates a commercial granular organomineral fertilizer (GOF) produced by physically mixing landfill paper and cellulose industry waste composted over a long period with monoammonium phosphate (MAP), focusing on its morphological properties, and phosphate release into the water. The organic base used in the GOF composition is rich in humic and fulvic acids due to its long-term composting, rebalances the soil's organic matter, and eliminates a critical environmental liability. No studies have involved long-term lignocellulosic waste composting as the organic base of organomineral fertilizers. Most GOF and MAP granules range from 2 to 4 mm in size, with rough and macroporous surfaces observed through scanning electron microscopy. The specific surface area values of fertilizers are low compared to other fertilizers with different organic matrices. However, 2–4 mm granules exhibit similar values, indicating uniformity of granules. Infrared spectroscopy reveals bands from mineral and organic bases, with possible clay additives confirmed by the silicon detected in Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy analysis. Thermogravimetric curves exhibit improved thermal stability for GOF over the composted organic base, with a 31 °C increase in the second decomposition stage and delayed completion of the subsequent stages. However, this did not significantly alter the Tonset of the ammonium phosphate decomposition, as GOF presented a similar thermal behavior to MAP. GOF and MAP exhibit similar kinetic profiles, with rapid phosphorus release in the first 4 hours, reaching about 77 % of the available phosphorus. GOF shows an increase in specific surface area 29 times after 240 hours of contact with water, facilitating phosphorus release from the commercial mixture. MAP and GOF exhibit a release rate exceeding 84 %, indicating rapid phosphate availability. These values are comparable to those of other organomineral fertilizers. The results demonstrate that the GOF performs similarly to MAP, with lower phosphorus dosages, rebalance of soil organic matter, and increased nutrient application efficiency.

Analyzing antimicrobial activity of ZnO/FTO, Sn-Cu-doped ZnO/FTO thin films: Production and characterizations.

In the developing field of nanotechnology, ZnO (zinc oxide) based semiconductor samples have emerged as the foremost choice due to their immense potential for advancing the development of cutting-edge nanodevices. Due to its excellent chemical stability, low cost, and non-toxicity to biological systems, it is also utilized in various investigations. In this study, the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method was used to generate FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide)/ZnO, and tin (Sn)-copper (Cu)-doped ZnO thin films at varying concentrations on FTO substrates. After being stacked 40 times in varying concentrations on the FTO substrate, FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn-Cu-doped thin films were annealed at 300°C. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy-(EDS), the agar diffusion test, and the viability cell counting method, the minimum inhibitory concentration, structural properties, surface morphology, antibacterial properties, bacterial adhesion, and survival organism count of FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn-Cu-doped thin films were investigated. Both doped and FTO/ZnO films with varying Sn-Cu concentrations expanded harmonically on the FTO substrate, according to the SEM-EDS investigation. The doping concentration affected their morphological properties, causing changes depending on the doping level. Antibacterial activity was observed in the powder metals, but no antibacterial activity was found in the thin film form. The highest adhesion rate of bacterial organisms on the produced samples was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn-Cu doping rate was 1%. In addition, the lowest adhesion rate was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn-Cu additive ratio was 3%. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: ZnO based semiconductors highlight significant potential in advancing nanodevice technology due to their chemical stability, cost-effectiveness, and biocompatibility. Employing the SILAR method, the study innovatively fabricates FTO/ZnO and Sn-Cu-doped ZnO thin films on FTO substrates, exploring a novel approach in semiconductor manufacturing. Post annealing at 300°C, the research examines the structural and surface morphological changes in the films, contributing to the understanding of semiconductor behavior under varying conditions. The study delves into the antibacterial properties of ZnO thin films, offering insights into the potential biomedical applications of these materials. SEM-EDS analysis reveals that doping concentrations crucially influence the morphological properties of ZnO thin films, shedding light on the optimization of semiconductor performance. Findings indicate a specific doping rate (1% Sn-Cu) enhances bacterial adhesion, while a 3% additive ratio minimizes it, suggesting implications for biomedical device engineering and antibacterial surface design.

Manganese Oxide-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride-Based 2D Material as Nanozyme for the Colorimetric Sensing of Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic acid is a key player in the human body, pharmaceutical industry, and food industry. It is involved in many physiological processes, and its deficiency or excess amount is linked to many pathological conditions, which makes it essential to monitor its concentration. In the current work, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and manganese oxide-doped graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4@MnO2) were synthesized through the pyrolysis process. Various characterization techniques, including spectroscopic, diffraction, thermal, and imaging methods, were employed to analyse the material's structural, compositional, and morphological properties. The surface chemical state of the material through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed that manganese was present in its tetravalent state, anchoring with nitrogen in the two-dimensional g-C3N4. The synthesized g-C3N4@MnO2 demonstrated intrinsic peroxidase-like activity visualized through the naked eye by the transformation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to oxiTMB and confirmed through a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The detection of ascorbic acid was performed through the peroxidase inhibitory action of the analyte through a chromogenic substrate, which reduced the oxiTMB to a colorless form. Under the optimized conditions, the sensor system was able to detect the analyte in the linear range of 1 to 80µM with a 0.16μM LOD, 0.53µM LOQ, and an R2 value of 0.9982. The sensor system, along with its sensitivity and linearity, was very selective in the presence of various potential interfering species. The sensor was successfully employed for the sensing of ascorbic acid in real samples with excellent reproducibility. The proposed sensor can be used in diagnosis, pharmaceutical applications, and the food industry.

Preparation of bismuth ferric oxide nanoparticles for the microwave-induced photo-degradation of organic pollutants in greywater.

This work demonstrates a thorough investigation into the synthesis and characterization of bismuth ferric oxide (BFO) photocatalyst for microwave-induced photodegradation of organic pollutants in greywater. Microwave (MW) irradiation was executed to enhance the generation of reactive oxygen species, contributing to the catalytic effectiveness of the synthesized photocatalyst. Through an efficient ultrasound-assisted synthesis process, perovskite BFO nanoparticles with a rhombohedral crystal structure and a crystallite size of around 15nm were successfully manufactured. Comprehensive characterization employing various analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX), Fourier Transform Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy, UV-Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UVDRS), photoluminescence spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) studies provided insights into the structural, elemental, spectral, optical, morphological, and surface area properties of the nanoparticles. The UV-vis spectroscopy and Tauc's plot were employed to elucidate the band structure of the photocatalyst, providing insights into its essential electronic properties for catalytic applications. With a narrow optical band gap of 2.13eV, the synthesized photocatalyst demonstrated suitability for optical applications and exhibited substantial catalytic activity in the microwave-induced photocatalytic degradation of greywater. Remarkably, it achieved a 93.5% reduction in total organic carbon (TOC) within 180min under moderate 50-W illumination. Refining process parameters through optimization studies notably augmented degradation efficiency. Scavenging investigations validated the efficient mineralization of total organic carbon content. Kinetic assessments provided mechanistic insights into improved catalytic activity of BFO, which was attributed to a changed band structure that allows for fast charge transfer across interfacial layers. Moreover, the stability and reusability of the BFO photocatalyst were assessed over five cycles, highlighting its potential practical application as an efficient and reusable photocatalyst for greywater treatment. These findings underscore the promising prospects of BFO in addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable wastewater treatment technologies.

Impact of hafnium dioxide morphology on catalytic transfer hydrogenation of methyl levulinate to γ-valerolactone: A comparative study

BackgroundThe catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) of methyl levulinate (ML) to γ-valerolactone (GVL) is a promising method for producing renewable fuels and chemicals. The efficiency of this process depends heavily on the choice of catalysts, with morphology playing a critical role in their performance. MethodsThis study synthesized and characterized rice-like (r-HfO₂) and ball-like (b-HfO₂) hafnium oxide nanostructures. r-HfO₂ was prepared using a microwave system, while b-HfO₂ was synthesized via a solvothermal method. The catalysts were characterized using SEM, TEM, XRD, TPD-NH₃ analysis, and nitrogen sorption isotherms to determine their morphological, structural, and acidic properties. The catalytic performance of these nanostructures was tested under optimal conditions of 160 °C and 2 h in a batch-type solvothermal reactor. Significant FindingsThe results showed that b-HfO₂ exhibited a conversion efficiency of 90 % and a GVL yield of 90 %, outperforming r-HfO₂, which achieved 94.8 % conversion and 75.2 % yield. Recyclability tests confirmed the durability of both catalysts, with b-HfO₂ maintaining better activity. Detailed analyses revealed that b-HfO₂ exhibits superior catalytic activity and energy efficiency, achieving higher GVL yield and better energy efficiency. The conversion rates reached up to 100 % for both catalysts at 200 °C, with b-HfO₂ achieving a higher GVL yield and better energy efficiency. These findings demonstrate the potential of HfO₂-based catalysts, especially b-HfO₂, in efficiently converting biomass-derived feedstocks to valuable chemicals.

Spray pyrolysis derived V2O5 thin films as an alternative electrochromic layer for electrochromic devices

In this study, vanadium oxide films were produced in the vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) films phase as an alternative electrochromic layer for electrochromic devices by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis technique at 300 °C. The V2O5 films were subjected to heat treatment at different temperatures (400-450-500 °C) and the ellipsometric, structural, morphological, optical and electrical properties of the films were investigated. The optical parameters of the V2O5 films were calculated by different theoretical methods and compared with the ellipsometric results. The average thickness and refractive index values are 172 nm and 2.29, respectively. The V2O5 films showed high optical absorbance in the visible region and band gap energy values ranged from 2.10 to 2.44 eV. The resistivity and roughness of the films decreased. The average roughness was determined to be 45 nm on average. These results suggest that V2O5 phase films, whose physical properties are improved by annealing without phase change, can be considered as promising electrochromic layers for electrochromic devices applications.

Ultrasonic Synthesis of MOF-based Hybrid Composite for Electrochemical Detection of Furazolidone Antibiotic in Food and Biological Samples

This study reveals the development of a new combination of Bi-MOF/ functionalized carbon nanofiber (f-CNF) composite modified electrode for the electrochemical sensing of Furazolidone (FUZ) antibiotics. FUZ is used to prevent bacterial infections in animals, and an overdose of FUZ leads to several health issues. Bi-MOF/f-CNF provide excellent surface area, high conductivity, and electrocatalytic activity for the effective detection of FUZ. Various characterization techniques were used to analyze the structural, morphological and compositional properties of Bi-MOF/f-CNF. The fabricated composite was coated onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and rotating disk glassy carbon electrode (RDGCE) to study its electrocatalytic behavior using different voltammetry techniques. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analysis of the electrode material confirmed its high electroactive surface area, low charge transfer resistance, and excellent charge transfer ability. The electrochemical quantification of FUZ was performed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and amperometric (i-t) techniques. The linear range, limit of detection (LOD) and sensitivity are 0.199 to 238 μM, 20.8 nM and 43.99 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively, as determined by the DPV technique. Additionally, the LOD, linear range and sensitivity were obtained as 3.64 nM, 0.002 to 700 μM and 0.827 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively using i-t quantification technique. The invented electrode material exhibits better stability in the presence of other interference molecules and it shows good repeatability and reproducibility for the detection of FUZ. Due to the excellent analytical properties, the Bi-MOF/f-CNF modified electrode could be the potential contender for the electrochemical detection of FUZ in the real samples.

Influence of synthesis protocol on structure, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of ErCrO3

In this study, we investigated the morphology, structure, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of ErCrO3 (ECO) nanoparticles synthesized through two distinct chemical routes: combustion and hydrothermal methods. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a well-crystallized orthorhombic pbnm phase in both samples. The broader Raman peaks observed in the hydrothermal sample indicate a larger strain of 0.138%, compared to the combustion-derived sample. A significant reduction in the magnetic phase transition temperature was observed for ECO nanoparticles synthesized via the hydrothermal method (117 K) compared to those derived from combustion (∼130 K), which can be attributed to size-induced strain. The hydrothermal ECO samples exhibited a broader temperature span and lower entropy changes compared to the combustion-derived counterparts. Consequently, we observed an improved relative cooling power of 523 J K−1 and entropy change of −10.8 J kg−1 K−1 at a magnetic field of 50 kOe. These findings are promising for magnetic refrigeration applications. The ability to tailor magnetocaloric properties through straightforward synthesis methods underscores their significance in advancing potential applications.

Sr-Mg co-doped Hardystonite/Polycaprolactone electrospun scaffolds: Fabrication and Characterization for enhanced bone regeneration

The production of scaffolds is a primary objective in tissue engineering for treating bone defects and diseases. The electrospinning process offers a promising technique to create structures resembling the extracellular matrix. Artificial polymeric grafts, such as poly(caprolactone) (PCL), often face issues of low strength and degradation. To overcome these limitations, we introduce ceramic reinforcing particles, specifically hardystonite (Ca2ZnSi2O7), known for its benefits in tissue regeneration. Considering the undeniable role of strontium and magnesium in bone regeneration, the aim of this study was to investigate and compare produced scaffolds with and without dopant elements, incorporated into hardystonite. Initially, strontium-magnesium-doped hardystonite (DHT) nanopowder was synthesized through mechanical milling followed by thermal treatment. The successful formation of a single-phase hardystonite structure was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD), with estimated crystallite and particle sizes of approximately 41.6nm and 77.23 ± 36.60 nm, respectively. Subsequently, PCL/DHT composite scaffolds were fabricated with 3 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt% bioceramic content. These scaffolds were assessed for fiber morphology, physical and chemical properties, hydrophilicity, surface roughness, mechanical characteristics, degradation, and biocompatibility. The results indicate that PCL/5 wt% DHT scaffolds exhibit superior biological, physical, and mechanical properties. Across all these tests, the PCL/5 wt% DHT scaffold consistently outperformed the others, suggesting its promising potential in bone tissue engineering.

Green and chemical synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles: An In-depth comparative analysis and photoluminescence study

Titania nanoparticles were synthesized by sol-gel method using chemical and natural solvents. Isopropanol is used as a chemical solvent for the reduction of ions. Further, Jasminum and Magnolia champaca flower extracts were individually used as natural solvents which acts as both reducing and stabilizing agents. The role of natural solvents over chemical solvents on the structure, phase, morphology, and optical properties of TiO2 nanoparticles were investigated. Synthesis using natural solvents led to rutile phase of TiO2 nanoparticles while, chemical synthesis produced anatase phase. Green synthesis yielded larger crystallite size TiO2 compared to chemical synthesis. Synthesized TiO2 exhibited PL emission centered at 397 nm with excitation 325 nm associated with weak emissions noticed at 450 nm, 470 nm, and 520 nm.

Multilayered heterojunction-based zinc oxide nanoneedles/polyaniline/titania nanoparticles as a self-powered ultraviolet light photodetector

Nowadays, self-powered ultraviolet photodetectors (SPDs) with improved photoresponse features have attracted considerable attention due to their great pivotal applications in military and civilian fields. In the present work, for the first time, we investigate and report the construction and photoresponse features of a SPD based on multilayered heterojunction-based zinc oxide nanoneedles/polyaniline/titania nanoparticles (ZET). The structure, morphology, and optical properties of the ZET and its components were comprehensively investigated. A significant dependence was observed between the changes in I-V characteristics of the ZET-based SPD (SPZ) and the temperature change, resulting in a short reverse saturation current, proper ideality factor, and low dark current. I-V characteristics of the SPZ revealed nonlinear asymmetric rectifying behavior with the improved current under the influence and increase of power densities (PDiss) of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. Moreover, the self-powered feature of the SPZ was confirmed by the generation of short-circuit current and notable contrast ratio under UV light illumination at zero bias voltage. The device displayed remarkable photoresponsivity of 4.46A/W, high significant normalized detectivity of 63.1×1012Jones, good fill factor of 50.64%, and excellent external quantum efficiency of 1514% at the PDis of 0.77mW/cm2. In addition, the SPZ exposed a short rise time of 540 ms, a high maximum photocurrent of 99.9µA, and a significant gain dynamic range of 499.5 at PDis of 19.11mW/cm2. Finally, the imaginable mechanism of the current generation in our hand-made device was discussed in detail by exerting a standard thermionic emission-diffusion model and energy band diagram.

Waste management of straw to manufacture biochar: An alternative reinforcing filler for natural rubber biocomposites

To achieve climate neutrality, alternative processes and materials should be proposed to replace those currently in use, which excessively burden the environment. Fossil fuels are non-renewable, and their resources are slowly being depleted, leading to increased prices.The aim of this work was to determine the potential of using agro-industrial residues in the form of oat straw for the production of biochar and its utilization as a filler in natural rubber biocomposites. The process of pyrolysis of plant material was used to obtain biochar with a high carbon content and a characteristic structure, which can affect selected rubber properties. The influence of the applied temperature of the pyrolysis process on the properties of the filler was determined. In this work, analysis techniques were used to enable the evaluation of both filler activity and specific properties of the final vulcanizates. The course of straw pyrolysis process, the carbon content in the fillers, and the size distribution of the bio-additive were examined. The structural, morphological, dispersion, processing, and functional properties of the compositions were examined. The reference in assessing the impact of the produced bio-additive on the properties of the product were composites filled with a commercial carbon black.The conducted research proved that the pyrolysis of straw at a temperature of 600°C was as effective as that carried out at a higher temperature, with comparable weight loss for both samples. The increase in torque was the highest in the case of biochar samples (torque gain 4,4-6,5 dNm), indicating greater intensity of the cross-linking process after the use of this type of additive. This was also confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry. Moreover, the obtained biocomposites were characterized by much higher strength parameters (tensile strength 18,3-21,3MPa) than conventional composites. Unfortunately, vulcanizates containing biochar as a filler exhibited poor resistance to thermo-oxidative aging (aging factor 0,24-0,54).

Investigating the Influence of CuS Ratio on Sun light – driven Photocatalytic Performance of ZnS:CuS Nanocomposites and reusability of PVA/ZnS: CuS polymer membrane

In this study, ZnS and CuS nanocomposites (NCs) were synthesized using a simple and cost-effective co-precipitation method. These NCs were evaluated for their photocatalytic activity in degrading Crystal Violet dye under sunlight. ZnS:CuS nanocomposites were created using QDs in ratios of 4:1, 1:1, and 1:4. The synthesized NCs were analyzed for structural, morphological, chemical purity, and optical properties using XRD, TEM, EDAX, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Structural analysis revealed phase-pure cubic and hexagonal structures for ZnS and CuS nanoparticles, respectively. The average crystallite sizes of the pure ZnS and CuS and their composites (4:1, 1:1 and 1:4) ratios are 1.66, 14.7, 1.90, 11.2 and 12.1 nm, respectively. TEM analysis confirmed aggregated and isolated particles, matching the SAED pattern and d-spacing values from XRD analysis. Increasing the CuS ratio in the composites enhanced absorption due to a bandgap reduction from 3.99 eV to 3.35 eV. The pure ZnS and CuS NPs and their composites in ratios of 4:1, 1:1, and 1:4 exhibited degradation efficiency of approximately 89%, 87%, 99%, 97%, and 96% respectively over a period of 180 minutes. ZnS:CuS (4:1) exhibited outstanding photocatalytic activity, achieving 90% degradation in 80 minutes under sunlight. Detailed discussions included the proposed photocatalytic mechanism, scavenging activity, and dosage effect. Hemolytic activity assays indicated that the synthesized NCs are nonhemolytic. The PVA and PVA/ZnS:CuS (4:1) composite membrane exhibited degradation efficiency of 63 % and 92 % respectively. ZnS:CuS (4:1) NCs, with their superior capacity for wastewater treatment, were incorporated into a PVA polymer membrane to enhance reusability and prevent photo-corrosion.

Dy doped calcium silicates synthesized using agro-food wastes and conventional chemicals as resources: a comparative study

Based on an earlier study, a mimic composition 38SiO2-60CaO-0.5Dy2O3-0.2Na2O-1MgO-0.1Al2O3-0.1TiO2-0.1Fe2O3 (wt.%) are synthesized by solid-state reaction method. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the synthesized sample presented in this study are compared with the corresponding properties of a similar sample derived from rice husk ash and eggshell powder as resources. The conventional chemicals derived sample are multi-phasic, containing β−Ca2SiO4, γ−Ca2SiO4, Ca3Si2O7, and CaFeO3 phases, and the CaO/SiO2 ratio was believed to be affecting the room temperature stabilization of the β phase. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images showed that twinned particles, cracks, and edge dislocations were present in the synthesized sample. The presence of precipitates in the micrographs indicated that Dy ions were segregated on the surface of the sample. The optical bandgap of the samples was 3.7 eV, as calculated by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The photoluminescence emission spectrum contained characteristic emission peaks of the Dy3+ ions. Apart from these, additional peaks were observed due to the titanium ions present in the sample. Understanding the properties of calcium silicates containing multiple dopant ions is important to develop a white light-emitting diode. The properties of the mineral-derived sample are compared to those of the agro-food waste-derived similar sample.

Demonstrating the potential of bioactive glass-infused electrospun PVB fibrous patches in atopic dermatitis moisturizing therapy

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritic and eczematous lesions. Current treatment modalities often focus on symptomatic relief through topical moisturizers to restore impaired skin barrier function. Bioactive glasses, such as 45S5 and 59S compositions, have gained attention for their potential therapeutic applications in dermatological conditions due to their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and ability to promote wound healing. In this study, we explore the feasibility and efficacy of utilizing electrospun polyvinyl butyral (PVB) fibrous patches infused with bioactive glass particles as a novel approach for moisturizing therapy in AD. The electrospun PVB fibrous patches were fabricated through a simple and scalable electrospinning technique, incorporating bioactive glass particles. Physicochemical properties, including morphology, mechanical strength, and bioactive properties, were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile testing, and in- vitro bioactivity. Additionally, the protein absorption kinetics of the fibrous patches were evaluated. Furthermore, in-vitro hemocompatibility, cell viability studies and live/dead assay were conducted to assess the biocompatibility of the bioactive glass-infused PVB fibrous patches. Our findings demonstrate that the incorporation of bioactive glass particles into electrospun PVB fibrous patches confers enhanced mechanical properties and sustained release of bioactive ions, providing a promising platform for prolonged moisturizing therapy.

Investigation of Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Properties of Ni-Co and MWCNT Nanocomposites.

In recent years, severe electromagnetic interference among electronic devices has been caused by the unprecedented growth of communication systems. Therefore, microwave absorbing materials are required to relieve these problems by absorbing the unwanted microwave. In the design of microwave absorbers, magnetic nanomaterials have to be used as fine particles dispersed in an insulating matrix. Besides the intrinsic properties of these materials, the structure and morphology are also crucial to the microwave absorption performance of the composite. In this study, Ni-Co- MWCNT composites were synthesized, and the changes in electric permittivity, magnetic permeability, and reflectance loss of the samples were evaluated at frequencies of 2 to 18 GHz. Nickel-Cobalt-Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) composites were successfully synthesized by the co-precipitation chemical method. The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of the samples were characterized and investigated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM), and Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The results revealed that the Ni-Co-MWCNT composite has the highest electromagnetic wave absorption rate with a reflectance loss of -70.22 dB at a frequency of 10.12 GHz with a thickness of 1.8 mm. The adequate absorption bandwidth (RL <-10 dB) was 6.9 GHz at the high-frequency region, exhibiting excellent microwave absorbing properties as a good microwave absorber patent. Based on this study, it can be argued that the Ni-Co-MWCNT composite can be a good candidate for making light absorbers of radar waves at frequencies 2- 18 GHz.

Green electrochemical sensor for selective determination of anticancer drug Ribociclib based on banana peel activated carbon/CuCoFe-MOF/CoFe2O4 modified carbon paste electrode in pharmaceutical and biological samples

The development of efficient and eco-friendly sensing platforms for the sensitive detection of anticancer drugs like Ribociclib (RIB) is essential for advancing therapeutic monitoring and ensuring patient safety. In this study, we introduce a novel electrochemical sensor that utilizes a unique CuCoFe-MOF/CoFe2O4/banana peel activated carbon (BPAC) composite-modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the sensitive quantification of RIB. This composite material, which has not been previously reported in the literature, offers enhanced electrocatalytic activity, attributed to its increased surface area and superior conductivity. Various techniques, including FT-IR, XRD, SEM-EDX, and BET analysis, were used to confirm the structural and morphological properties of the synthesized composite. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) results showed a broad linear range of 0.2–9.7 μM and a remarkably low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.025 μM, demonstrating its high sensitivity. The sensor’s performance was further validated in pharmaceutical formulations and biological samples, achieving recoveries between 98.6 % and 101.8 % with an RSD below 2.0 %. Additionally, the method was evaluated using the Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI), Analytical Greenness (AGREE), and Blue Applicability Grade Index (BAGI) tools, confirming that it is both green and highly applicable. This work presents a significant advancement in the field of electrochemical sensing for RIB detection, offering a novel, sustainable, and practical solution for real-world applications.

Modification in structural, Optical and Morphological Properties of Hydrothermally synthesized 2D Layered Structured MoS2(x)V2O5(1-x)(X=1-5%) Nanocomposites for Photocatalytic Application

Two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 belongs to the class of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMDs), while V2O5 is categorized as a Transition Metal Oxide (TMO) both materials have demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic properties. In the present study, the hydrothermal technique was employed to synthesize with formulation strategy MoS2(x)V2O5(1-x)(X=1-5% w/w) nanocomposites as a prominent photocatalyst under controlled exposure of UV-photons of light for deterioration of industrial wastage in water. The V2O5 nanoparticles were effectively embellished on the surface of two-dimensional molybdenum nano-layered matrix. The crystal phase and morphology such as nanospheres and layered structures of pure V2O5 and MoS2-doped-V2O5 nanocomposites were verified by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) respectively. In UV-Vis spectroscopy findings, the energy bandgap (Eg) is decreasing pattern from 2.76 to 0.85eV with increment of substitution percentages. The decremented energy bandgap of V2O5/MoS2 is revealed to be the cause of the observed additional gamma active states and contributed to the development of conduction and valance bands. The optical conductivity increased from 3.6 to 14.5 Ω-1cm-1 in the UV visible spectrum, while the energy bandgap decreased from 2.76 to 1.25 eV. In the UV-Vis spectrum absorption peak of prepared nanocomposites exhibits an increase in absorbance from 6.5(a.u.) to 14.5 (a.u.) at wavelength 310nm. Photoluminescence (PL) investigations reveal that when the doping percentage increases, the intensity of the peaks decreases as signifies a lower rate of electron-hole pair recombination, hence increasing the separation capacity. This separation capacity demonstrates well-organized charge transfer on the enhanced photocatalyst surface area and provides better dye degradation activity. A BET detail analysis included Saito-Foley pore size distribution (SF-PSD), BJH (adsorption) pore area, volume & pore size, and textural properties of MoS2(x)V2O5(1-x)(X=1-5% w/w) photocatalyst can be applied as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, long-lasting, and effective photocatalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. The degradation of methylene blue (M.B) within 150 minutes established that the synthesized MoS2(x)V2O5(1-x)(X=1-5% w/w) material was shown to be an economically inexpensive and stable nanocomposites for photocatalytic activity.

Achilles Tendon Mechanical But Not Morphological Properties Change with Rehabilitation in Patients with Chronic Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy

ABSTRACT Purpose Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is associated with altered tendon’s morphological and mechanical properties, yet it is unclear whether these properties are reversed upon mechanical loading to promote tendon healing. This study aims to determine the extent to which pathological tendon’s morphological and mechanical properties adapt throughout a 12-week eccentric rehabilitation protocol. Methods Forty participants with midportion AT were recruited and participated in a 12-week eccentric rehabilitation program. Function and symptoms were recorded through the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) and hopping. The tendon’s morphological (i.e. volume, midportion cross-sectional area (CSA) and anteroposterior (AP) diameter) and mechanical (i.e. stiffness, Young’s modulus, and tendon non-uniform displacement) properties were measured at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks of the intervention. Results Significant functional improvements were observed, with VISA-A scores and hopping results showing marked improvements (p &lt; 0.001). Morphologically, no significant changes in volume, midportion CSA, or AP diameter were found, although a trend toward decreased CSA between 30-70% of tendon length was noted. Mechanically, significant increases in Achilles tendon stiffness (p = 0.001) and Young’s modulus (p &lt; 0.001) were observed over the course of the rehabilitation program. No differences in tendon non-uniform displacement were found following a 12-week rehabilitation program. Conclusions These findings suggest that tendon adaptation in response to mechanical loading primarily involves changes in mechanical properties rather than morphology, highlighting the complexity and variability in tendon adaptation. Clinically, these mechanical properties could be considered in the load progression throughout rehabilitation as potentially higher strains will be induced when clinical improvements precede mechanical adaptations.

Structural and Viscoelastic Properties of Bacterial Cellulose Composites: Implications for Prosthetics

This study investigates the morphological, mechanical, and viscoelastic properties of bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogels synthesized by the microbial consortium Medusomyces gisevii. BC gel films were produced under static (S) or bioreactor (BioR) conditions. Additionally, an anisotropic sandwich-like composite BC film was developed and tested, consisting of a rehydrated (S-RDH) BC film synthesized under static conditions, placed between two BioR-derived BC layers. Sample characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), rheometry, and uniaxial stretching tests. To our knowledge, this is the first study to combine uniaxial and rheological tests for BC gels. AFM and SEM revealed that the organization of BC fibrils (80±20 nm in diameter) was similar to that of collagen fibers (96±31 nm) found in human dura mater, suggesting potential implications for neurosurgical practice. Stretching tests demonstrated that the drying and rehydration of BC films resulted in a 2- to 8-fold increase in rigidity compared to other samples. This trend was consistent across both small and large deformations, regardless of direction. Mechanically, the composite (BioR+S-RDH) outperformed BC hydrogels synthesized under static and bioreactor conditions by approx. 26%. The composite material (BioR+S-RDH) exhibited greater anisotropy in the stretching tests compared to S-RDH, but less than the BioR-derived hydrogels, which had anisotropy coefficients ranging from 1.29 to 2.03. BioR+S-RDH also demonstrated the most consistent viscoelastic behavior, indicating its suitability for withstanding shear stress and potential use in prosthetic applications. These findings should provide opportunities for further research and medical applications.