Degradation Percentage Research Articles

Degradation of salicylic acid coordinated to Fe3O4 nanoparticles by H2O2

Salicylic acid (SA) has strong tendency to form complexes with iron (III). Depending upon the concentrations of SA, the complexes formed are FeR+, FeR2+, FeR32+where R represents salicylate ion (-OC₆H₄COO-). Fe3O4 nanoparticles binds with the salicylate ions through the sites having Fe3+ and at the site containing Fe2+ reacts with H2O2 to produces OH* radicals. The OH* radicals oxidise the salicylic acid attached to Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Thus, the degradation occurs through the formation of SA-Fe3O4 nanoparticles complexes and then followed by the reaction with H2O2 at the nanoparticle site. FT-IR, TGA were used to confirm the synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles as well as to investigate SA-Fe3O4 nanoparticles complex formation and the degradation of the complex by H2O2. Spectrophotometric studies were employed for the monitoring of the degradation of SA at the surface. Here, the nanoparticles act as platform to which both the reactants SA and H2O2 get activated and the degradation reaction occurs. The concentrations of SA, H2O2, nanoparticle dosage, surfactants and polymers were changed and the % degradation were noted. It has been observed that the degradation percentage decreased with the increase in nanoparticle dosage, [surfactant] and [polymers]. The [H2O2] and [HClO4] gave peaked-like curve for the degradation of SA for the plot of % degradation versus concentrations of H2O2 and HClO4. Degradation of SA was observed maximum at [H2O2](= 8.0 × 10−4 mol dm−3) and at [HClO4] (= 1.0 × 10−2 mol dm−3).

Novel ACr2O4 (A = Mg, Cu, Ni)/MIL-101(Cr) photocatalysts: Synthesis, characterization, performance prediction and applications for the photo–degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride

The Z-scheme ACr2O4 (A = Mg, Cu, Ni)/MIL-101(Cr) heterojunction photocatalysts have been synthesized by a simple method. By means of phase structure, microstructure and composition analysis, it was determined that the ACr2O4 (A = Mg, Cu)/MIL-101(Cr) photocatalysts only contained the target component, while the NiCr2O4/MIL-101(Cr) photocatalyst also contained a small amount of Cr2O3 impurities. The photocatalytic experiments showed that the degradation percentage of MgCr2O4/MIL-101(Cr) photocatalyst reached 78 % when the mass percentage of MIL-101(Cr), the catalyst content, the initial tetracycline hydrochloride concentration, pH value and illumination time were 10 %, 1 g/L, 50 mg/L, 7 and 120 min, respectively. The neural network model can effectively predict the photocatalytic activity of MgCr2O4/MIL-101(Cr) photocatalyst. Various characterization confirmed that the holes, hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals are the main active species involved in photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride. This research will provide experimental basis and theoretical support for exploring the construction of new metal–organic framework (MOF) based heterojunction photocatalysts.

Silk fibroin/gelatin electrospun nanofibrous dressing loaded with roxadustat accelerates wound healing in diabetic rats via HIF-1α stabilization

Diabetes presents significant health risks, including diabetic foot ulcers, which can lead to amputation or death if left untreated. It has been acknowledged that hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) dysfunction in diabetic wounds delays healing and tissue repair. This study explores the therapeutic potential of roxadustat (ROX), a novel HIF-1α stabilizer, within an optimized electrospun gelatin/silk fibroin nanofibrous dressing (ROX-NF). The dressing's properties were optimized using a 22 full factorial design, with varied gelatin (GN) and silk fibroin (SF) amounts as factors and responses including degradation, porosity, swelling, drug release, and drug content percentages. In vitro characterization of the optimized ROX-NF showed a degradation rate of 90.24 ± 1.29 %, porosity of 84.41 ± 3.04 %, cumulative drug release of 93.13 ± 3.05 % over 48 h, and a high drug content of 99.12 ± 0.02 %, with structural analyses confirming successful ROX integration within the nanofibrous matrix. Additionally, in vivo evaluation of the optimized ROX-NF in diabetic rat models demonstrated accelerated wound closure, achieving 5.17 ± 1.2 % wound area by day 14 compared to 19.3 ± 2.8 % with ROX dispersion. Histological analysis revealed enhanced collagen deposition, neovascularization, and organized epidermal and dermal layers. Furthermore, PCR, ELISA, and Western blot assays demonstrated a marked upregulation of key wound healing markers, including HIF-1α, TGF-β, VEGF, and collagen I, in the ROX-NF group relative to ROX dispersion. These findings underscore the efficacy of combining ROX with nanofiber characteristics, offering a promising approach for diabetic wound management through accelerated wound closure and enhanced tissue regeneration.

Assessing the photodegradation efficiency of benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX): A comparative investigation using activated charcoal (AC), zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8), and zirconium metal–organic framework (Zr-MOF)

ABSTRACT In this study, three different materials were investigated for their ability to degrade benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) using light energy. The materials studied were activated charcoal (AC), zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8), and zirconium metal–organic framework (Zr-MOF). Initially, AC, ZIF-8, and Zr-MOF were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, and spectroscopic analysis techniques. Based on their excellent features, that is, band gap (5.5, 5.45, and 4.75 eV), surface area (711.5, 1,122.1, and 535.4 m2/g), and pore volume (0.291, 0.369, and 0.628 cm3/g), a comparative photodegradation analysis of BTX was performed in acetonitrile. We found that Zr-MOF is the best photocatalyst to degrade BTX, with degradation percentages of 97, 95, and 94% (B > T > X), respectively, followed by ZIF-8 and AC. Our study suggests that these photocatalysts can be used to degrade BTX using light energy, which could reduce the health and environmental impacts of BTX. Our results illustrate that advanced porous materials may be established as photocatalyst materials with the potential to address the long-standing challenges associated with pollutant degradation.

Waste upcycling of Sapota peels as a green route for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their application as catalytic and colorimetric detection of Co2+ and Hg2+

Biochemical synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using plant part extracts as capping and reducing agents has drawn considerable attention in research with a growing focus on green chemistry. The present study utilized Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) peel extract to synthesize silver nanoparticles (SP-AgNPs) using ultrasonic vibration. Different characterization techniques such as UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscope, High resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction were employed to check the production of SP-AgNPs. The AgNPs were crystalline in nature and had an average particle size of 27.906 nm. The research primarily focused on two aspects: the catalytic activity of SP-AgNPs in degrading environmental pollutants and their ability to act as colorimetric sensors for toxic metal ions. SP-AgNPs exhibited significant catalytic activity in the decomposition of various pollutants such as Methyl Orange (0.035 ± 0.090 min−1, 92.89 ± 1.79%), Crystal Violet (0.1097 ± 0.1016 min−1, 85.56 ± 2.21%) and Cosmic Brilliant Blue G-250 (0.0697 ± 0.0275 min−1, 79.56 ± 1.80%). The high degradation percentages and reaction rate constants indicate the efficiency of SP-AgNPs in pollutant degradation. Additionally, the study demonstrated the effectiveness of SP-AgNPs as sensors for detecting toxic metal ions, particularly Co2+ and Hg2+ with limits of detection 54.40 ± 1.43 µM and 10.70 ± 0.16 µM. With impressive sensitivity and low detection limits, SP-AgNPs showed promise in detecting these ions, which are often found in environmental contaminants. Moreover, their plant-based synthesis, low toxicity, and cost-effectiveness make them attractive options for environmental remediation efforts.Graphical abstract

Investigation of photocatalytic and corrosion resistance properties of Zr-Ag doped SnO2 Nanoparticles: The impact of calcination temperature

Herein, the synthesis of Zr-Ag doped SnO2 nanoparticles at different calcinating temperatures via simple chemical methods for photocatalytic and corrosion resistance application has been discussed. The XRD analyses describe that increasing the temperature revealed a polycrystalline nature with an increased crystallite size. The SEM and EDX analyses have confirmed the agglomerated surface morphology and the occurrence of elements in the samples. The Optical properties were evaluated using UV–vis absorption spectroscopy. Redshifts were detected, and samples’ band gap energies decreased from 3.54–3.14 eV. The photocatalytic performance of the nanoparticles in degrading safranin dye under sunlight was evaluated at various calcination temperatures. A degradation percentage of 96.5 % was observed at 500 °C. However, the calcination temperature does not appear to significantly impact the photocatalytic activity, as evidenced by the comparable results of 400 °C (95.7 %) and 600 °C (93.8 %). The electrochemical behavior of the synthesized nanoparticles coated in an MS plate was investigated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and linear sweep voltammetry studies under an acidic environment. Further, the dense coatings and the annealing temperature provide well-refined grains, leading to dual protection for the MS alloy and enhancing corrosion resistance.

ZnO/CuO heterojunction prepared by sol-gel: characterization and photocatalytic evaluation

ZnO, CuO and the ZnO/CuO heterojunction were prepared using zin acetate and copper acetate by sol-gel method. The materials were characterized by: TGA, XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, EDS and UV-Vis. The heterostructure showed a synergistic effect compared to pure materials. The XPS results confirm the existence of a heterostructure. The morphology is a combination of characteristic morphologies of ZnO and CuO. The bandgap of ZnO decreases with the incorporation of CuO. The photocatalytic efficiency of the heterostructure increases; the degradation percentages were better for the heterostructures in both radiations: Ultraviolet and Visible.

Effect of rGO on photocatalytic performance of Fe2O3-ZnO/rGO nanocomposite

The methods of removing various pollutants from water, due to the limitation of drinking water resources and also the increase in the production of pollutants from various industries, have been widely considered. A green technique that has emerged as a promising process in the degradation of numerous organic pollutants from water is the photocatalytic process. Here, Fe2O3-ZnO/rGO nanocomposites with 0.5, 1, 2 mass percentages of rGO nanosheets were successfully fabricated. These nanocomposites have been characterized by XRD analysis, FESEM, Raman spectroscopy and UV-vis spectrophotometer. Next, the photocatalytic activity of Fe2O3-ZnO/rGO nanocomposites in removing RhB dye was studied. Fe2O3-ZnO/1% rGO nanocomposite showed the best photocatalytic performance with a degradation percentage of 100% in 180 min with a rate constant of 0.020 min−1 and a half-life of 34.7 min. Finally, this optimal photocatalytic activity was attributed to the smaller optical gap of this nanocomposite.

Biosynthesis of gold and silver nanoparticle using water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) extract for photocatalytic degradation of organophosphate and organochlorine pesticide

The study aimed to assess the efficiency of synthesized gold (Au) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles in the degradation of organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides through photocatalysis. The synthesis of gold and silver nanoparticles was achieved using Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth extract). Photocatalytic degradation tests were conducted on organochlorine and organophosphate pesticides using gold and silver nanoparticles, with the absorbance of the samples measured by a UV spectrophotometer. The photocatalytic degradation rates of organochlorine and organophosphate were determined, with varied concentrations of the synthesized nanoparticles. The results showed high degradation rates at lower concentrations (10–20 ppm), with degradations of 51.789%, 47.954%, 47.983%, 44.088%, 41.565%, and 36.749% for 25/75, 50/50, and 75/25 Au nanoparticle ratios, respectively. The results also revealed that higher degradation rates were observed at longer reaction times (70–80 minutes), with percentage degradations of 44.344% and 49.987%, 41.754% and 45.937%, 36.773% and 40.458% for 25/75, 50/50, and 75/25 Au nanoparticle ratios, respectively. Lower degradation efficiencies were observed at shorter reaction times (10–20 minutes), with percentage degradations of 15.356% and 19.982%, 13.746% and 17.082%, and 10.976% and 15.167% for 25/75, 50/50, and 75/25 ratios, respectively. Additionally, the results showed high degradation rates at lower concentrations (10–20 ppm) for Ag nanoparticles, with percentage degradations ranging from 40.814% to 44.822% across AgNP ratios (25/75, 50/50, 75/25), indicating efficient degradation at lower concentrations. Conversely, at higher concentrations (60–80 ppm), the degradation efficiency was notably lower, with percentage degradations ranging from 7.004% to 13.539% across different AgNP ratios. In conclusion, Au nanoparticles exhibited higher photocatalytic efficiency than Ag nanoparticles, particularly in degrading organophosphate (Sniper) pesticides. It is recommended that these synthesized nanoparticles be considered as environmentally friendly and cost-effective options for pesticide degradation.

Optimization and reusability of photocatalytic g-C3N4/W-TiO2/PVDF membranes for degradation of sulfamethazine.

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are prevalent emerging pollutants in the aquatic environment. The photocatalysis process has proven high efficiency in degrading PPCPs; however, the fate and repercussions of photocatalyst residuals are a major concern. To avoid that, we developed a composite from graphitic carbon nitride/tungsten doped with titanium dioxide (g-C3N4/W-TiO2) and loaded it on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes by the phase-inversion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and other different analyses implied the successful synthesis of g-C3N4/W-TiO2 composite and coating on PVDF membranes. A Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the operational parameters, including pH, g-C3N4 ratio in the composite, and initial SMZ concentration by the response surface methodology (RSM). The highest SMZ degradation percentage was 98.60% after 240min of irradiation. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) along with suspect screening was used to identify the intermediate transformation products and propose the SMZ degradation pathway. The loss in membrane activity after five cycles of photocatalytic degradation was about 18%. According to the current study, the photocatalytic membrane g-C3N4/W-TiO2/PVDF is promising for removing sulfonamide antibiotics from wastewater.

Synergistic degradation of refractory organic pollutant by underwater bubbling plasma combined with heterogeneous Fenton process

Excessive discharge of the refractory organic pollutants endangers the development of the society and economy, thus seeking an efficient wastewater abatement method is an urgent need. Herein, Iron (Ⅱ) sulfide (FeS) was employed as the heterogeneous catalyst and coupled with underwater bubbling plasma (UBP) for the elimination of the refractory organic pollutant, malachite green (MG). FeS catalyst was synthesized using the solvothermal method and subsequently characterized comprehensively, focusing on its microstructure, specific surface area, chemical bonds and elements valence states. The UBP system combined with FeS (UBP/FeS) exhibited the robust synergism with a maximum synergistic factor of 1.89. The MG degradation percentage and rate constant were up to 94.7% and 0.237 min−1 within 12 min. The parameter experiments revealed that FeS dosage, pulse frequency, initial MG concentration and solution conductivity of 150 mg/L, 56 Hz, 5 mg/L and 21.8 μS/cm, respective, were more conducive for MG elimination. The MG removal efficiency reached 86.2% after five consecutive applications of FeS. Reactive substances including ·OH, ·O2−, eaq, O3 and H2O2 were confirmed to contribute to MG elimination. Additionally, the conversion circle between ≡ Fe(Ⅱ) and ≡ Fe(Ⅲ) promoted the catalytic conversion of H2O2 and O3 into ∙OH. The comparison of UV–vis spectra and total organic carbon of MG solution before and after reaction revealed the superior degradation of MG in the UBP/FeS system. Hypotheses regarding to the decomposition pathways of MG were formulated based on the identified intermediates. The toxicity level of MG solution was lightened after reaction. The above results indicate that UBP/FeS has the advantages of quick degradation and high efficiency, representing a promising approach for refractory pollutants treatment.

Electrochemical Treatment of Doxycycline-Containing Wastewater from Pharmaceutical Industry in Batch and Once-Through Continuous Mode

Doxycycline (DOXY), a widely used antibiotic during COVID-19, was overused, leading to concerns about contamination of aquatic environments and environmental problems. The present study used the Ti/TiO2-RuO2-IrO2 electrode for DOXY’s electrochemical oxidation (EO) in batch and once-through continuous mode operations. Process parameters were optimized using a response surface methodology (RSM)-Box-Behnken Design (BBD) model. The impact of key input parameters, including time (t), current density (j) (mA cm−2), and pH, on the percentage of DOXY degradation and energy consumption was systematically investigated. Under optimal conditions pH = 3, t = 73 min, and j = 11.63 mA cm−2, DOXY degradation achieved 91% with an energy consumption of 5.283 kWh m−3. In the once-through continuous mode EO process, optimal conditions reached 91% DOXY degradation with an energy consumption of 13.98 kWh m−3, achieved at a residence time (Rt) of 139 min, elapsed (Et) time of 100 min and at j = 20.40 mA cm−2. The EO process utilizing Ti/TiO2-RuO2-IrO2 electrodes demonstrates significant potential for the degradation of DOXY, primarily due to its enhanced degradation efficiency. This method’s superior performance highlights its viability as a highly effective approach for the treatment of DOXY-contaminated wastewater.

Preparation and evaluation of injectable sustained-release Alendronate-loaded lipid liquid crystal on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats

Alendronate, a bisphosphonate compound, is used to treat osteoporosis by inhibiting bone resorption. However, oral consumption of Alendronate can cause severe gastrointestinal side effects, such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, constipation or diarrhea, flatulence, and esophageal irritation or pain. To overcome this problem, an injectable sustained-release formulation of alendronate based on lipid liquid crystal (LLC) using phosphatidylcholine (PC), sorbitan monooleate (SMO), glycerol di-oleate (GDO), and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) or ethanol solvents was recommended. This compound was added as a base to one side of a coupling syringe, while alendronate powder was added to the other. After combining the two syringes, the resulting formulations were transferred into tubes containing PBS for in-vitro evaluation. In formulations containing ethanol, the cumulative percentage of drug release, water content, and degradation were higher than in those with NMP. Furthermore, LLC gel formulations with ethanol solvent had lower viscosity and a cubic structure, whereas LLC containing NMP had a hexagonal structure, indicating slower and longer release of alendronate in LLC-NMP formulations. In-vivo evaluations of subcutaneous injections of alendronate based on LLC formulation in rats with ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis showed significant advancements in osteogenesis markers, including RUNX2, OPG, VEGF, and Type 1 Collagen, according to Western blot analysis. These finding highlight alendronate's potential not only as a bone resorption inhibitor but also as a bone formation stimulator. Additionally, histopathology results revealed no osteoclast activity or osteoarthritis reactions in the LLC formulation group. Hence, an injectable LLC formulation containing PC, SMO and NMP could be a suitable option for developing a sustained-release LLC formulation of alendronate for osteoporosis treatment.

Dual purpose of graphene decorated with Cu3SnS4 as a counter electrode for dye sensitized solar cells and degradation of tetracycline antibiotics

This article describes the synthesis of a series of Cu3SnS4/graphene composites using a simple one-pot solvothermal technique. XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman, UV–visible absorption, PL, and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms characterised sample structure, morphology, optical characteristics, and porosity. XRD and TEM examinations show that Cu3SnS4 has a tetragonal crsyalline structure with spherical nanoparticles of 30–35 nm equally distributed over graphene sheets.. The band gap was determined to be 3.35, 3.12, 2.92, and 2.63 eV for Cu3SnS4, CSSG1, CSSG2, and CSSG5 CEs, respectively. CSSG5 CEs exhibits strong SSA (117.5 m2/g and 36.4 nm) and PS, which are about 2.2 times higher than those of pure Cu3SnS4 (52.3 m2/g and 13.4 nm). As a result, the DSSC equipped with Cu3SnS4/graphene (50 mg) nanocomposite CE achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.21 %, which was higher than that of using Cu3SnS4 nanoparticles (4.22 %) and comparable to the 5.91 % obtained with pure Pt CE as a reference. The nanohybrid structure of catalyst-active Cu3SnS4 nanoparticles established on electrically conducting 2D graphene sheets provides fast ion diffusion pathways, a large accessible surface area, and superb chemical and thermal stability, improving the electrode's performance. This research offers an alternative CE in non-Pt system materials and a better solution in other fields. Moreover, the CSSG5 sample showed high degradation percentage (95 %), rate constant (0.5612 min-1) and long-term stability towards tetracycline (TC) under visible light irradiation.

Fruit Extract Mediated Formation of Luminescent Titanium Dioxide Nanometer-Sized Particles: An Innovative Strategy in Domain of Photodecomposition and Germicidal Properties.

Discoveries in nanotechnologies are placing a great deal of attention on greener strategies that use harmless substances and moderated reactions to promote healthy development. This work used a straightforward, innovative, and cost-effective sustainable approach to produce bio-augmented TiO2 nanometer-sized particles (NMSP) by applying a water-based extract of the star fruit as a stabilization and reduction agent. A variety of techniques, comprising UV-Vis, XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM with EDAX, and TEM, have been employed to investigate the formed TiO2 NMSP. The germicidal properties of formed TiO2 NMSP towards germs have been investigated by implementing an agar-based pore plate technique. Congo red and methylene blue dyes have been applied to assess photodecomposition activity. The TiO2 NMSP exhibited significant germicidal efficacy versus many pathogenic microbes. The maximum degradation percentages of Congo red and methylene blue were 89.2% and 83.7%, achieved after 60 and 70 min, respectively. Consequently, it is determined that the selected NMSP composition enhanced germicidal and photodecomposition capabilities. The combined effort may serve as an effective method for eliminating color degradation concerning effluent and could potentially be employed in the field of medicine to address antibiotic resistance.

Development of flexible and mesoporous CdS/ZnS/PVDF nanocomposites with remarkable organic dye degradation performance under natural sunlight

The engineering of polymer-based nanocomposites is a highly promising strategy for improving both the efficiency and stability of catalysts used in wastewater treatment. In this work, we explore the efficacy of flexible CdS/ZnS/PVDF nanocomposite films towards degradation of Malachite Green dye under low energy visible light and ambient sunlight. Films with varying weight percentage of CdS/ZnS nanofillers (0 %, 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, 20 %) were successfully prepared by solution casting method and the physiochemical properties were characterized using various techniques such as XRD, SEM, AFM, EDX, BET, UV–Vis DRS and FTIR. Pore diameter of 5.5 nm was observed, indicating that CdS/ZnS is mesoporous in nature. Under the optimum photocatalytic condition of 15 ppm dye concentration and pH 9, 15 wt% CdS/ZnS/PVDF showed the maximum photodegradation efficiency of 93.5 % in 30 min. The sample exhibited excellent reusability for five consecutive runs of the experiments which show a degradation percentage of 92.1 % in the fifth run and the scavenging study established that superoxide radicals play the major role in the photodegradation process. The experiments under natural sunlight on three separate days showed a remarkable photodegradation performance of 89 %, 93.4 % and 93.6 % highlighting the potential of CdS/ZnS/PVDF nanocomposites for sustainable wastewater treatment under natural sunlight.

Study of Natural Herbal Dyes Photodegradation Effect to Optical Properties for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

The stability of natural dyes for use in dye-sensitive solar cells is known from their photodegradation characteristics. Photodegradation effects using artificial light radiation on natural herbal dyes were investigated. Three natural herbal dyes, namely Fagraea acuminatissima, sappanwood, and kulit setong were used in this study. The stability of the natural herbal dyes under artificial light radiation was studied. The optical properties of the natural herbal dyes as indicators of their stability were characterized using FTIR and UV-VIS absorption. Stability testing of natural herbal dyes was conducted in a room with artificial lighting for 5 weeks. Observations of changes in their optical properties were performed weekly. It can be seen that all three natural herbal dyes contained anthocyanin. In addition to anthocyanin, Fagraea acuminatissima and sappanwood also contain chlorophyll. In contrast, the kulit setong contains beta-carotene in addition to anthocyanin. The degradation percentage showed that sappanwood degrade to all of its pigments. While an increase occurred in the chlorophyll peak of Fagraea acuminatissima and the beta-carotene peak of kulit setong. This clearly shows that Fagraea acuminatissima has the highest stability, and potentially increases the efficiency of solar cells.

Fabrication of Zn and Ti-loaded Carbon-silica Composite Derived from Gelatin Template for the Photodegradation of Methylene Blue

Carbon-silica nanocomposites (CSNs) from gelatin as a carbon source and natural template and TEOS as a silica source have been successfully synthesized and impregnated into ZnO and TiO2 photocatalysts. The structural, morphological, and textural properties and photocatalytic activity for methylene blue degradation of TiO2/CSNs and ZnO/CSNs were investigated. XRD data revealed that TiO2/CSNs and ZnO/CSNs had different structural characteristics with similar crystallinity. FTIR spectra demonstrated the presence of Zn–O and Ti–OC bonds, respectively, at about 500-450 cm-1 and 1500 cm-1. The morphological surface exhibited stacked tubular shapes of TiO2/CSNs and ZnO/CSNs with the primary elements of Ti, Zn, Si, C, and O. The nitrogen adsorption-desorption curves revealed both micropores and mesopores of TiO2/CSNs and ZnO/CSNs where the surface area reduced due to the blocking pore after impregnation. Moreover, ZnO/CSNs verified a higher degradation percentage against methylene blue than that of TiO2/CSNs. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).

A novel electrochemical sensor based on ꞵ-cyclodextrin/bismuth oxybromide/multi-walled carbon nanotubes modified electrode with in situ addition of tetrabutylammonium bromide for the simultaneous detection and degradation of tebuconazole.

A novel electrochemical sensor-based glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was fabricated and appliedtosimultaneous detection and degradation of tebuconazole (TBZ) for the first time.TheGCE was consecutively modified by multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), bismuth oxybromide (BiOBr), ꞵ-cyclodextrin (ꞵ-CD), and in situ addition of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBABr). The detection was based on the decreasing of Bi signal at its anodic potential (Epa) of 0.05V. Under the optimum conditions, the modified electrode exhibited a linear response to TBZ in the concentration range 1-100μg L-1 with a detection limit of 0.9μg L-1. TBZ was firstly adsorbed on the surface of the modified electrode through host-guest molecule interactions of the ꞵ-CD. The adsorption was further enhanced by the large surface area of BiOBr and MWCNTs. The adsorbed TBZ on the electrode surface hindered the electron transfer of Bi, thus decreasing the oxidation of Bi. In addition, the in situ addition of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBABr) enriched TBZ via electrostatic interactions, increasing its detection sensitivity. The fabricated electrochemical sensor was applied to determine TBZ in water and soil samples from rice fields with recoveries of 80.5-100.5% and 87.6-112%, respectively. Furthermore, the degradation of TBZ on the modified electrode was studied under a solar light simulator. The degradation percentage (100%) of TBZ (50µg L-1) was achieved in5min owing to the excellent photocatalytic properties of BiOBr.

Eco-friendly synthesis of pure lignin nanoparticle and silver-doped lignin nanoparticle using fig tree bark for photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B dye and assessment of their anticancer and antibacterial performance

Lignin nanoparticles (lignin-NPs) have been successfully prepared from the bark of a fig tree by a hydrothermal method for the first time, next, synthesized lignin-NPs were doped with silver (Ag) metal. The Ag-doped lignin-NPs and pure lignin-NPs have been identified through UV–Vis, XRD, FT-IR, and FESEM/EDX techniques. XRD patterns of pure lignin-NPs and Ag-doped lignin-NPs have shown amorphous and crystalline structures respectively. The UV–Vis spectra of NPs presented strong absorption bands in 450, 228, and 289 nm. FESEM images of Ag-doped lignin-NPs and pure lignin-NPs exhibited spherical shapes via sizes of about 18.55 nm and 31.93 nm respectively. Also, the FTIR spectra revealed the same functional groups. Moreover, the photocatalytic performance of NPs for the decolorization of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye has been investigated under UVA light. As a result, Ag-doped lignin-NPs demonstrated a higher degradation percentage than pure lignin-NPs. The results of the MTT assay after 48 h indicate that pure lignin-NPs had little toxicity compared with Ag doped lignin-NPs on normal (L929) and cancer (Huh-7) cells. Also, according to the results of the agar diffusion test, Ag doped lignin-NPs had better antibacterial performance in comparison with pure lignin-NPs on Pseudomonas aeruginosa (POA1 and S7), and Enterococcus faecalis (clinical).