Absorption Rate Research Articles

Optimization of preparation conditions and performance of a new degradable soil water retaining agent.

Using polyaspartic acid (PAsp) and bentonite (BT) as the main raw materials, a new type of degradable soil water retaining agent (PAsp-AA/BT) was synthesized by microwave radiation. The optimum synthesis conditions and comprehensive properties of PAsp-AA/BT were discussed and the structure and surface characteristics of PAspsp-AA/BT were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA in the paper. The results showed that the optimum synthesis conditions of PAsp-AA/BT were as follows: the dosages of polyaspartic acid (PAsp), bentonite (BT), initiator potassium persulfate, crosslinking agent N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide was 5, 3, 0.3, 0.03%, respectively, the neutralization degree of acrylic acid was 75%, and the microwave power was 490W. Under this condition, the absorption ratio of the synthesized PAspsp-AA/BT in deionized water and 0.9% NaCl solution was 953 and 164g/g, respectively. The synthesized PAsp-AA/BT had a high water absorption rate, good water retention and repeated water absorption, and the degradation rate in soil within 30days reached 32.75%, with good degradation effect. The analysis of SEM, FT-IR, XRD and TGA showed that: the surface of PAsp-AA/BT was rough and had obvious pore structure, which was conducive to the diffusion of water molecules; polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid were polymerized; the cross-linking structure was formed between polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid; the product of PASP-AA/BT had good thermal stability. This study provides a new soil water retaining agent, which is helpful for the better development of soil water retaining agent research.

Ultra-thin wideband frequency tunable metamaterial absorber and its application for antenna radar cross section reduction

A metamaterial absorber (MMA) with broadband and efficient absorption performance based on ultra-thin dielectric layer is proposed. In this unique configuration, the absorption frequency of the MMA can be continuously and dynamically tuned across a wide frequency range by manipulating the reverse voltage of the central varactor diode. From both the equivalent circuit and field distribution perspectives, we analyze the mechanisms behind broadband tuning and superior absorption. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the absorption peak of MMA can be continuously tuned over a range of 5.16–8.16 GHz, with the absorption rate consistently exceeding 90%, and the thickness is only 0.5 mm. Integrating MMA array with a microstrip patch antenna in a suitable manner can dynamically mitigates the radar cross section (RCS) within the associated frequency range, with virtually negligible impact on the antenna’s radiation performance.

ANALYSIS OF TIMBERCRETE: SAWDUST-INFUSED CONCRETE MIXTURES

This investigation aims to advance sustainable construction practices by investigating the feasibility and environmental benefits of incorporating sawdust instead of sand in concrete mixtures. By using sawdust, a byproduct of the forestry industry, in the process of making concrete, the investigation addresses the pressing need for resource conservation and waste reduction, since the construction sector is a significant user of raw materials. According to British European Norm Standard BS 8500-2:2023 for C35 grade concrete, the experimental programme examines how different percentages of sawdust (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) substituted for sand affect the physical characteristics of concrete, including its compressive strength, dry density, and water absorption. The workability, consistency, and strength of the sawdust-incorporated concrete mixes were assessed by a combination of techniques including sieve analysis, slump testing, casting and curing procedures, and compression tests. The results indicate a potential reduction in material costs and environmental impact with the ideal sawdust content by showing a negative association between the amount of sawdust and the concrete's density and compressive strength. A larger sawdust content was associated with higher rates of water absorption, highlighting the hygroscopic nature of sawdust and its implications for the durability of concrete. According to the investigation's results, it is possible to substitute concrete with up to 5% sawdust, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional concrete while still having sufficient mechanical properties for use in construction. It is recommended that further research be conducted to improve sawdust's compatibility with cementitious materials, increase the durability of sawdust-incorporated concrete, and create industry guidelines for its use. This investigation contributes to the body of knowledge on environmentally friendly building materials by promoting the use of sawdust and other eco-friendly substitutes in the building sector to reduce negative effects on the environment and increase resource efficiency.

Flexible wafer-scale bifunctional metasurface based on nanoimprinting

Metasurfaces have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in manipulating light fields across diverse applications. However, current research tends to examine these functionalities in isolation, prompting a growing interest in integrating different functionalities within a singular metasurface device. In this paper, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a bifunctional metasurface capable of providing concealment and sensing functions simultaneously. Specifically, the proposed nanostructure effectively operates as a one-way mirror, exhibiting an average reflection rate of approximately 90% under external illumination, alongside an absorption rate of 87.9% from the opposite direction of incidence. This functionality renders it suitable for privacy-enhancing building windows. Meanwhile, this nanostructure also integrates liquid sensing capabilities boasting a sensitivity of 464 nm/RIU, which is particularly valuable for monitoring liquid-based corrosion. The experimental performance of the prepared 6-inch nanohole-patterned metasurface closely aligns with the simulations, and the utilization of flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, coupled with nanoimprint lithography technology, enables a direct and cost-effective manufacturing process that can be scaled up for widespread applications.

Effect of non-metal doping on the optoelectronic properties of ZrS2/ZrSe2 heterostructure under strain: a first-principles study.

In this paper, we systematically studied the effects of non-metallic element (B, C, N, O, F) doping and biaxial stretching on the photoelectric properties of ZrS2/ZrSe2 heterostructures by using the first-principles calculation method based on density functional theory. The results show that the p-type doping is realized by B, C, and N atom doping, and the n-type doping is realized by O and F atom doping. The doping of B and C atoms produces impurity energy levels in the band gap, which affects the conductivity of the heterostructure. The band gap of N and O atom-doped heterostructures increases under tensile strain, but it is still a direct band gap. The analysis of the optical properties of the heterostructures shows that the doping of non-metallic atoms can adjust the optical absorption rate and reflectivity of the heterostructures. Under the action of tensile strain, the optical properties of the doped heterostructures have changed significantly in the low-energy region. This article provides a theoretical basis for the future application of ZrS2/ZrSe2 heterostructures. This paper uses the first-principles calculation method based on density functional theory. The PBE exchange-correlation functional based on generalized gradient approximation (GGA) is selected for the specific calculation, and the crystal structure is geometrically optimized by the ultrasoft pseudopotential method. It is verified that when the cutoff energy of the ZrS2/ZrSe2 heterostructure is 500 eV, the K-point grid is selected to be 10 × 10 × 2 with the lowest energy, so the cutoff energy is selected to be 500 eV. The K-point grid is selected to be 10 × 10 × 2. The convergence limits for structural optimization are as follows: the maximum force between atoms is 0.01 eV/Å, the convergence threshold of the maximum energy change is set to 10-9 eV/atom, and the convergence threshold of the maximum displacement is 0.001 Å. In order to avoid the influence of atomic periodic motion between different atomic layers, a vacuum layer of 20 Å is added in the vertical direction. Considering the interaction of vdW between the interfaces, the DFT-D2 method is used to verify. The optical properties were calculated by the random phase approximation method, and the K-point grid was selected as 12 × 12 × 2.

Evaluation and SAR Analysis of Low Frequency and Broadband Electric Field Exposure Measurement Values in the Home Environment

In this study, the effective value of low-frequency (50 Hz) and high-frequency (700–2500 MHz) broadband electric field exposures was measured for 24 h in four different selected environments in a house. All the statistical values of 1000 data points recorded with two measuring devices for 24 h in each environment are calculated, the most appropriate curves are fitted to the data, and the curves are plotted by expressing their changes with respect to time. All statistical and parametric values of the density and cumulative probability functions of the curves are calculated and plotted. In broadband measurements, the broadband is divided into fifteen sub-bands, but the data are available in only six of these sub-bands. The six-layer human head model is created by using the middle frequencies of the six sub-bands used, and taking the permittivity (εr) and conductivity (σ) of each layer into consideration. The specific absorption rate (SAR) value in the brain is calculated by using the total transmission coefficient of six layers. The SAR value surrounding the head is obtained. These SAR values are interpreted by considering the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Community European (CE) occupational and general public SAR limits.

Investigation of corrosion resistance and interfacial bonding properties of silver/silicone zinc-rich coating/substrate system in marine environment

This paper aims to study the corrosion resistance and interfacial bonding properties of the silver zinc-rich coating/substrate system and silicone zinc-rich coating/substrate system. The actual working state of the system in marine environment was simulated by the coupled effects of corrosion and pre-stretching. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) was used in corrosion test to analyze the surface morphology and corrosion products. Meanwhile, the degradation degree of the corrosion resistance was investigated based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and water absorption rate. Three-point bending test and tensile test combined with digital image correlation (DIC) were performed to evaluate the interfacial bonding properties of these two systems based on the elastic modulus and critical cracking strain. Results show that the dense accumulation of aluminum and zinc powders makes the silver zinc-rich coating have higher corrosion resistance compared to the silicone zinc-rich coating. The combined effects of corrosion and pre-stretching on the fracture toughness of silicone zinc-rich coating are larger than that of the silver zinc-rich coating. The interfacial bonding properties of the coating/substrate systems gradually degrade as the pre-stretching load approaches the critical cracking load of the coating.

Preparation and Characterization of Protein-Based Hydrogel: Cottonseed Protein Grafted with 2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropanesulfonic Acid (AMPS)

Preparation and Characterization of Protein-Based Hydrogel: Cottonseed Protein Grafted with 2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropanesulfonic Acid (AMPS)

Responses of soil and rhizosphere microbial communities to Cd-hyperaccumulating willows and Cd contamination

BackgroundThe pollution of soil by heavy metals, particularly Cd, is constitutes a critical international environmental concern. Willow species are renowned for their efficacy in the phytoremediation of heavy metals owing to their high Cd absorption rate and rapid growth. However, the mechanisms underlying microbial regulation for high- and low-accumulating willow species remain poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated the responses of soil and rhizosphere microbial communities to high- and low-Cd-accumulating willows and Cd contamination. We analyzed soil properties were analyzed in bulk soil (SM) and rhizosphere soil (RM) planted with high-accumulating (H) and low-accumulating (L) willow species.ResultsRhizosphere soil for different willow species had more NH4+ than that of bulk soil, and RM-H soil had more than RM-L had. The available phosphorus content was greater in hyper-accumulated species than it was in lower-accumulated species, especially in RM-H. Genome sequencing of bacterial and fungal communities showed that RM-L exhibited the highest bacterial diversity, whereas RM-H displayed the greatest richness than the other groups. SM-L exhibited the highest diversity and richness of fungal communities. Ralstonia emerged as the predominant bacterium in RM-H, whereas Basidiomycota and Cercozoa were the most enriched fungi in SM-H. Annotation of the N and C metabolism pathways revealed differential patterns: expression levels of NRT2, NarB, nirA, nirD, nrfA, and nosZ were highest in RM-H, demonstrating the effects of NO3-and N on the high accumulation of Cd in RM-H. The annotated genes associated with C metabolism indicated a preference for the tricarboxylic pathway in RM-H, whereas the hydroxypropionate-hydroxybutyrate cycle was implicated in C sequestration in SM-L.ConclusionsThese contribute to elucidation of the mechanism underlying high Cd accumulation in willows, particularly in respect of the roles of microbes and N and C utilization. This will provide valuable insights for repairing polluted soil using N and employing organic acids to improve heavy metal remediation efficiency.

Long-term performance of chemically modified cotton straw fibers in micro-surfacing asphalt mixtures

Using agricultural wastes in asphalt pavements presents a promising solution to enhance pavement performance and utilize agricultural wastes simultaneously. In the paper, the fibers are made from recycled cotton stalks. Chemical modifiers are chosen to enhance the adherence of fiber asphalt binders. Different modified fibers are added to the SBR-modified emulsified asphalt. The modified asphalt binders are then utilized to prepare asphalt mixtures. Comparative studies on construction performance, road performance, and durability were carried out. Results showed that water consumption and bitumen aggregate ratio at the micro-surfacing were increased after adding fiber. Fibers with low hygroscopicity, rough surface, and high asphalt absorption rate had better adhesion properties. The long-term performance of a micro-surfacing mixture was most remarkably improved by the CH3COOH-modified cotton straw fibers, demonstrating a 10.07% drop in rutting depth, a 9.13% decrease in abrasion value, and a 41.13% gain in shear resistance compared to the micro-surfacing mixtures with unmodified fibers. The study concluded that modified fiber micro-surfacing asphalt mixes are more suitable for seasonal frozen regions than the conventional mixes. The findings offer a theory foundation for the future development of cotton straw fibers in road engineering.

Triple band diamond-shaped polarization insensitive plasmonic nano emitter for thermal camouflage and radiative cooling

This study proposes the design of a novel Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) nano-infrared emitter that uses a unique diamond-shaped grating to achieve selective infrared absorption. Diamond-shaped nano emitter (DNE) structure exhibits four narrow resonant peaks within key absorption windows such as short-wave infrared (SWIR) mid-wave infrared (MWIR), alongside with a wide absorption band in the Non-Transmissive Infrared Range (NTIR) for thermal camouflage applications compatible with radiative cooling. Moreover, the proposed DNE is polarization insensitive as it has an in-plane symmetric design. Using the 3D Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) simulations, we demonstrate the nanoantenna’s superior performance characterized by its high absorption rates and tuned effective impedance matching. As of our knowledge, the findings suggest that this is the first time that a MIM structure achieved multiple narrow resonance peaks, located in SWIR and MWIR simultaneously, with a wide absorption range in NTIR. Represented DNE stands as a significant innovation in the field of stealth technology, providing a tunable, high-efficiency solution for managing and controlling thermal emissions across diverse applications.

Multi-functional metasurface: ultra-wideband/multi-band absorption switching by adjusting guided-mode resonance and local surface plasmon resonance effects

This study introduces an innovative dual-tunable absorption film with the capability to switch between ultra-wideband and narrowband absorption. By manipulating the temperature, the film can achieve multi-band absorption within the 30–45 THz range or ultra-wideband absorption spanning 30–130 THz, with an absorption rate exceeding 0.9. Furthermore, the structural parameters of the absorption film are optimized using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to ensure the optimal absorption response. The absorption response of the film is primarily attributed to the coupling of guided-mode resonance and local surface plasmon resonance effects. The film’s symmetric structure enables polarization incoherence and allows for tuning through various means such as doping/voltage, temperature and structural parameters. In the case of a multi-band absorption response, the film exhibits good sensitivity to refractive index changes in multiple absorption modes. Additionally, the absorption spectrum of the film remains effective even at large incidence angles, making it highly promising for applications in fields such as biosensing and infrared stealth.

Effects of non-ionizing radio frequency electromagnetic radiation on the development and behavior of early embryos of Danio rerio

ABSTRACT Biological effects of radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) in the range of 900–1800 MHz emerging from the mobile phone were investigated and were found to influence the locomotor pattern when exposure was initiated from 1 hour post fertilization (hpf) in zebrafish embryos (ZE), Danio rerio. Mobile phones and other wireless devices offer tremendous advantages. However, on the flipside they are leading to an increased electromagnetic energy in the environment, an excess of which could be termed as electromagnetic pollution. Herein, we tried to understand the effects of RF-EMR emerging from the mobile phone, on the development and behavior of ZE, exposed to RF-EMR (specific absorption rate of 1.13 W/kg and 1800 MHz frequency) 1 hr daily, for 5 days. To understand if there could be any developmental stage-specific vulnerability to RF-EMR, the exposure was initiated at three different time points: 1hpf, 6hpf and 24hpf of ZE development. Observations revealed no significant changes in the survival rate, morphology, oxidative stress or cortisol levels. However, statistically significant variations were observed in the batch where exposure started at 1hpf, with respect to locomotion patterns (distance travelled: 659.1 ± 173.1 mm Vs 963.5 ± 200.4 mm), which could be correlated to anxiety-like behavior; along with a corresponding increase in yolk consumption (yolk sac area: 0.251 ± 0.019 mm2 Vs 0.225 ± 0.018 mm2). Therefore, we conclude that RF-EMR exposure influences the organism maximally during the earliest stage of development, and we also believe that an increase in the time of exposure (corresponding to the patterns of current usage of mobile phones) might reveal added afflictions.

Trust region framework-based design of sub-6 GHz m-MIMO antenna and evaluation of SAR

Purpose Currently, massive multiple-input multiple-output (m-MIMO) antennas are typically designed using complex trial-and-error methods. The purpose of this study is to determine an effective optimization method to achieve more efficient antenna design processes. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents the design stages of a m-MIMO antenna array compatible with 5G smartphones operating in long term evolution (LTE) bands 42, 43 and 46, based on a specific algorithm. Each antenna element in the designed 10-port m-MIMO antenna array is intended to perfectly cover the three specified LTE bands. The optimization methods used for this purpose include the Nelder–Mead simplex algorithm, covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy, particle swarm optimization and trust region framework (TRF). Findings Among the primary optimization algorithms, the TRF algorithm met the defined objectives most effectively. The achieved antenna efficiency values exceeded 60.81% in the low band and 68.39% in the high band, along with perfect coverage of the desired bands, demonstrating the success of the design with the TRF algorithm. In addition, the potential electromagnetic field exposure caused by the designed m-MIMO antenna array is elaborated upon in detail using computational human models through specific absorption rate analysis. Originality/value The comparison of four different algorithms (two local and two global) for use in the design of a 10-element m-MIMO antenna array with a complex structural configuration and the success of the design implemented with the selected algorithm distinguish this study from others.

Case report: Radiofrequency-induced thermal burn injury in a dog after magnetic resonance imaging

A 10-year-old male Shar-Pei was referred for lethargy and proprioceptive deficits of the left thoracic limb. An magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination of the cervical spinal column and the brain was performed. The MRI examination of the brain was normal. A left-sided C3-C4 intervertebral disc extrusion with spinal cord compression was diagnosed. Medical treatment was elected. Within a week after the MRI examination, the dog presented with deep partial-thickness skin burn wounds in both axillae. Since the specific absorption rate had not exceeded the safety limits during any of the scans and no other procedures or circumstances were identified that could possibly have resulted in burn injuries, the thermal burn injuries were diagnosed as radiofrequency (RF) burns. The wounds healed by secondary intent over the next month. RF burns are the most reported complication in humans undergoing MRI but have not been reported in veterinary patients. Clinicians and technicians should consider the potential risk for RF burns in veterinary patients and take precautions regarding positioning of the patient and take notice of any signs of burn injury when performing follow-up examinations.

Economic and Accessible Portable Homemade Magnetic Hyperthermia System: Influence of the Shape, Characteristics and Type of Nanoparticles in Its Effectiveness

Currently, one of the main causes of death in the world is cancer; therefore, it is urgent to obtain a precocious diagnosis, as well as boost research and development of new potential treatments, which should be more efficient and much less invasive for the patient. Magnetic hyperthermia (MH) is an emerging cancer therapy using nanoparticles, which has proved to be effective when combined with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or surgery, or even by itself, depending on the type and location of the tumor’s cells. This article presents the results obtained by using a previously developed economic homemade hyperthermia device with different types of magnetite nanoparticles, with sizes ranging between 12 ± 5 and 36 ± 11 nm and presenting different shapes (spherical and cubic particles). These magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized by three different methods (co-precipitation, solvothermal and hydrothermal processes), with their final form being naked, or possessing different kinds of covering layers (polyethylene glycol (PEG) or citric acid (CA)). The parameters used to characterize the heating by magnetic hyperthermia, namely the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) and the intrinsic loss power (ILP), have been obtained by two different methods. Among other results, these experiments allowed for the determination of which synthesized MNPs showed the best performance concerning hyperthermia. From the results, it may be concluded that, as expected, the shape of MNPs is an important factor, as well as the time that the MNPs can remain suspended in solution (which is directly related to the concentration and covering layer of the MNPs). The MNPs that gave the best results in terms of the SAR were the cubic particles covered with PEG, while in terms of total heating the spherical particles covered with citric acid proved to be better.

Impact of resistant starch: Absorption of dietary minerals, glycemic index and oxidative stress in healthy rats

Background & AimsResistant starch (RS) is a prebiotic fiber that has been scientifically shown to control the development of obesity. Prebiotic role of RS has also seen to be very important as it helps gut bacteria to regulate fermentation and fatty acid production. This study aimed to check the different levels of RS on glycemic index, oxidative stress and mineral absorption rate in healthy rat models. To evaluate these objectives, the trial was conducted for 40 days of follow up; 10 days were the adjustment period and the collection period over 30 days. MethodsThirty-six healthy female Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of (9 animals each) NC (Normal Control: without resistant starch), RS0.20 (resistant starch: 0.20 g/kg body weight), RS0.30 (resistant starch: 0.30g/kg body weight), RS0.40 (resistant starch: 0.40g/kg body weight). All the diets were isocaloric and isonitroginous. ResultsThe impact of different levels of RS on the dry-matter intake (DMI) presented statistically significant results (p ≤ .05): DMI was reduced in RS (0.02) fed rats as compared to NC rats in first 3 weeks; and after 4th and 5th weeks, there was a DMI reduction of 28% in RS (0.04) fed rats. Moreover, there was no significant increase in the nutrient intake in all RS diets. The dry-matter (DM) digestibility was statistically significantly (P≤0·05), which increased in all rats fed with different level of RS. The weight loss showed statistically significant results: RS (0.04) exhibited 19g reduction in weight as compared with NC rats. Significant increase was observed in total oxidant status (TOS), in all the RS fed rats when compared with NC rats. The levels of Mg, Ca, Fe and Zn were shown to be decrease in feces analysis, which proves their better absorbance in gut. Statistically significant increase was observed in antioxidant capacity, whereas significant decrease was observed in the total weight of the animals, showing the role of RS in controlling obesity. ConclusionsOverall, significant results were found in all dosage level of RS but long term administration of the higher dosage level (RS0.40) may need to be studied for enhanced results. RS can help improve insulin sensitivity in overweight adults.

Use of Alkaline-Activated Energy Waste Raw Materials in Geopolymer Concrete

Silica fly ash, Certyd aggregate, and an alkaline solution were used to produce lightweight geopolymer concretes. The compressive strength, water absorption, and bulk density results, along with SEM photos showing the structure of the obtained composite, were obtained. Tests conducted on the specifications of lightweight geopolymer concretes have revealed significant chemical interactions between the ash aggregate and the geopolymer mortar, particularly when the coarse aggregate surface has been pre-treated with an alkaline solution. A statistical analysis of the experimental data, which investigated the influence of three key variables on the compressive strength, water absorption, and bulk density of lightweight geopolymer concrete (LBG), identified the following factors as having the most substantial impact: the quantity of alkali used, the curing temperature, and the concentration of alkali in the mixture. The optimal test series exhibited a commendable compressive strength of 20.14 megapascals (MPa), accompanied by a water absorption rate of 14.72%, and a bulk density of 1486.6 kg per cubic meter (kg/m³). These findings underscore the importance of alkali content, curing temperature, and alkali concentration in tailoring the properties of lightweight geopolymer concrete to meet specific performance requirements.

Novel Environmentally Friendly RNAi Biopesticides: Targeting V-ATPase in Holotrichia parallela Larvae Using Layered Double Hydroxide Nanocomplexes.

RNA interference (RNAi)-based biopesticides offer an attractive avenue for pest control. Previous studies revealed high RNAi sensitivity in Holotrichia parallela larvae, showcasing its potential for grub control. In this study, we aimed to develop an environmentally friendly RNAi method for H. parallela larvae. The double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) of the V-ATPase-a gene (HpVAA) was loaded onto layered double hydroxide (LDH). The dsRNA/LDH nanocomplex exhibited increased environmental stability, and we investigated the absorption rate and permeability of dsRNA-nanoparticle complexes and explored the RNAi controlling effect. Silencing the HpVAA gene was found to darken the epidermis of H. parallela larvae, with growth cessation or death or mortality, disrupting the epidermis and midgut structure. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and confocal microscopy confirmed the effective absorption of the dsRNA/LDH nanocomplex by peanut plants, with distribution in roots, stems, and leaves. Nanomaterial-mediated RNAi silenced the target genes, leading to the death of pests. Therefore, these findings indicate the successful application of the nanomaterial-mediated RNAi system for underground pests, thus establishing a theoretical foundation for developing a green, safe, and efficient pest control strategy.

A binary salt composite adsorbent material for solar-driven sorption-based atmospheric water harvesting

Solar-driven sorption-based atmospheric water harvesting (SSAWH) technology stands as a promising avenue for sourcing freshwater in arid and remote regions. For real-world large-scale applications, the effective water absorption capacity, broad humidity absorption range, and rapid desorption properties of adsorbent materials have been the main goals of the research area. In this context, we have developed a binary salt composite adsorbent material (PAMg-Li) for solar-driven water harvesting by integrating binary hygroscopic salts MgSO4 particles and LiCl particles, activated carbon fiber (ACF), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The inherent porous structure and interconnected channels at micro and nano scales of PAMg-Li facilitate water absorption, and obtained satisfactory water absorption rate even at 30% relative humidity (RH). It has been shown to be able to achieve a high water storage capacity and realize water desorption under natural light. A home-made device based on PAMg-Li obtained a water evaporation rate of 0.084 kg/(m2·h) under solar radiation intensities ranging from 200 to 850 W/m2. The PAMg-Li material developed in this work can be a candidate for a more practical and effective choice for SSAWH.