Particle Size Reduction Research Articles

Enhanced fabrication of size-controllable chitosan-genipin nanoparticles using orifice-induced hydrodynamic cavitation: Process optimization and performance evaluation

Chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) possess great potential in biomedical fields. Orifice-induced hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) has been used for the enhancement of fabrication of size-controllable genipin-crosslinked chitosan (chitosan-genipin) NPs based on the emulsion cross-linking (ECLK). Experiments have been performed using various plate geometries, chitosan molecular weight and under different operational parameters such as inlet pressure (1–3.5 bar), outlet pressure (0–1.5 bar) and cross-linking temperature (40–70 °C). Orifice plate geometry was a crucial factor affecting the properties of NPs, and the optimized geometry of orifice plate was with single hole of 3.0 mm diameter. The size of NPs with polydispersity index of 0.359 was 312.6 nm at an optimized inlet pressure of 3.0 bar, and the maximum production yield reached 84.82 %. Chitosan with too high or too low initial molecular weight (e.g., chitosan oligosaccharide) was not applicable for producing ultra-fine and narrow-distributed NPs. There existed a non-linear monotonically-increasing relationship between cavitation number (Cv) and chitosan NP size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) test indicated that the prepared NPs were discrete with spherical shape. The study demonstrated the superiority of HC in reducing particle size and size distribution of NPs, and the energy efficiency of orifice type HC-processed ECLK was two orders of magnitude than that of ultrasonic horn or high shear homogenization-processed ECLK. In vitro drug-release studies showed that the fabricated NPs had great potential as a drug delivery system. The observations of this study can offer strong support for HC to enhance the fabrication of size-controllable chitosan-genipin NPs.

Synergistic effects of nonionic surfactants ethoxylated alkylamines and sodium dodecyl sulfate in mixed systems

HypothesisIn general, the performance of surfactant hybrid systems is better than that of single surfactants, so surfactant hybrid systems are widely used in various industries. As a very important class of nonionic surfactants, ethoxylated alkylamines have been widely used in industries such as washing, coating, and pesticide, but little research has been conducted on their mixed systems. In order to improve the utilization efficiency of surfactants and reduce wastage, the surface properties and aggregation behavior of ethoxylated alkylamine mixed systems should be further explored. ExperimentIn this study, the nonionic surfactant ethoxylated dodecylamine (AC-1202) and the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) were used to form a mixed system. The static surface tension and interaction parameters of the mixed system under the influence of inorganic salt ions were investigated using a KRÜSS K12 surface tensiometer. The diffusion process of the mixed system was investigated using a KRÜSS bubble pressure tensiometer. At the same time, the aggregate behavior of the mixed system was studied by particle size analyzer. In addition, the contact angle and rheological properties of the mixed solution were also investigated. FindingsThe SDS/AC-1202 mixture system formed a synergistic effect that could reduce the CMC value to 24.20 mN/m and the CMC value was as low as 22.89 mN/m after the addition of inorganic salts. The mixed system conforms to the kinetic mechanism of mixing and diffusion and the Ostwald de model for non-Newtonian fluids. Finally, there is a good aggregation pattern in the mixed system, and the stronger synergistic effect will lead to the reduction of the average particle size of the mixture to 45.41 nm.

Perilla protein isolate exhibits synergistic techno-functionality through modification via sequential dynamic high-pressure microfluidization and enzymatic hydrolysis

Modification of proteins derived from plant sources is crucial for enabling their versatile applications in the food industry. In the present study, structural and functional properties of individual treated perilla protein isolate (PPI) through dynamic high-pressure microfluidization (DHPM) and enzymatic hydrolysis (EH) was compared with their sequential (DHPM-EH) treatment. Native PPI thick, sharp-edged blocks transformed into a collapsed structure with wrinkles after sequential (DHPM-EH) treatment. The synergistic effect between DHPM and EH, during sequential (DHPM-EH) treatment caused greater reduction (91.9%) in PPI particle size as compared to DHPM (87.3%), and EH (84.5%), which enhanced PPI solubility, even at low pH. Above treatments altered the conformational structure of PPI as evident from changes in surface hydrophobicity, free –SH groups conversion into –SS bonds, ultraviolet absorption and fluorescence intensities changes, and decreased α-helix, while increased β-sheets. The sequential (DHPM-EH) treated PPI showed enhanced foaming capacity (×3.59), as well as increased thermal and colloidal stability.

DEVELOPMENT AND OPTIMIZATION OF A DOLUTEGRAVIR NANOSUSPENSION USING BOX BEHNKEN DESIGN

Objective: This study aimed to develop and optimize a nanosuspension of Dolutegravir, an integrase inhibitor with low aqueous solubility, using the sonoprecipitation technique. The objective was to enhance the drug's solubility and oral bioavailability by preparing nanosuspension. Methods: A box-behnken design was employed to systematically investigate the impact of stabilizer concentration, sonication amplitude, and time on the particle size and polydispersibility of the nanosuspension formulations. Various stabilizers, including Soluplus®, Poloxamer 188, Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP) K90, Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC), and Tween 80, were evaluated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed drug-polymer interactions, while differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction revealed partial amorphization. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed nanoscale particle size and morphology. Results: The optimized formulation (NS6) with 1% Soluplus®, 65 W amplitude, and 10 min sonication exhibited nanoparticles of 75.3 nm with low polydispersity. NS6 demonstrated enhanced drug release compared to the pure drug, attributed to particle size reduction and amorphization. In vitro tests indicated acceptable stability over time and temperature. Conclusion: The application of Box-Behnken design resulted in an optimized nanosuspension formulation capable of improving the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble Dolutegravir. The formulation exhibited favorable characteristics, including reduced particle size, amorphization, and enhanced drug release, highlighting its potential as an effective delivery system for Dolutegravir in Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV) treatment.

Zn and Ni doped hydroxyapatite: Study of the influence of the type of energy source on the photocatalytic activity and antimicrobial properties

The present work aimed to produce HAp nanoparticles doped with Zn and Ni in order to analyze the incorporation of these elements in the catalytic and antimicrobial properties of HAp. The samples were obtained by the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method in 30 min at 150 °C. XRD and FTIR results showed that HAp was formed without the presence of secondary phases, and Rietveld refinement indicated a reduction in crystallite size after doping. Nanorod-like morphologies were observed by SEM-FEG with reduction in particle size and increase in specific surface area. Furthermore, the hidden gap at 3.26 eV, photoluminescence indicated that there was a predominance of deep defects and XPS showed the presence of dopants on the HAp surface. The catalytic results in the degradation of methylene blue dye indicated that the zinc-doped sample removed 97.85 % under sunlight, 66.81 % under UV light and 70.64 % under ultrasound. After four cycles of reuse under sunlight, good photocatalytic performance was maintained, and inhibition tests indicated that holes and hydroxyls are the active radicals. Antimicrobial activity tests showed that zinc-doped and co-doped samples were efficient in inhibiting Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). This work brings a promising alternative application for hydroxyapatite in environmental and microbial remediation.

Particle Processing of Acetaminophen Using the Cooling and Anti-solvent Crystallization Methods

Several crystallization strategies are being implemented to enhance the solubility of acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the cooling and anti-solvent crystallization on the properties of acetaminophen. The results showed that the anti-solvent recrystallization produced achieved an impressive yield of up to 41.40%, while the cooling method yielded approximately 2–9%. Through FTIR, XRD, and DSC analysis on the samples, it was discovered that these methods had minimum effects on the molecular and thermal properties of the compound. Furthermore, the methods did not alter the crystallinity of acetaminophen, with crystal form I dominating the products. In addition, processing using the cooling and anti-solvent effectively reduced particle size of acetaminophen from 68.60 μm to 26.92 μm and 28.25 µm, respectively. In conclusion, the solubility of paracetamol in aqueous solutions experienced a significant enhancement. In the unprocessed samples, it measured 0.0107 gram/ml, while the recrystallized samples had an improved range of 0.0123 to 0.0167 g/ml.

Effect of grain size on the dielectric and magnetic properties of YFeO3 ceramics densified by microwave sintering and spark plasma sintering from powders synthesized via reverse chemical co-precipitation

YFeO3 (YFO) ceramics were synthesized by reverse co-precipitation at different pH values followed by microwave sintering (MS) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) techniques. Also, the effect of the grain size on the magnetic and dielectric properties of the sintered ceramics was examined using various characterization methods. Moreover, FESEM micrographs showed that the particle size of the calcined samples has declined by increasing the pH value. Furthermore, the magnetization curves exhibited weak ferromagnetic behavior in the pre-sintered powder samples. Besides, the Ms value was enhanced from 1.26emu/g to 2.3emu/g by an increase in pH from 8.5 to 10.5 owing to reducing the particle size and subsequently raising the amount of uncompensated surface spins. Furthermore, the powder samples showed an increase in the Hc and Mr values from 15Oe to 28Oe and 0.127emu/g to 0.296emu/g, respectively, with a reduction in particle size from 0.632 μm to 0.272 μm. Additionally, the specimens processed through the sintering techniques demonstrated a remarkable reduction in magnetic characteristics. Therefore, a decrease in magnetic saturation values from 2.3emu/g to 0.43emu/g for the MS sample and to 0.17emu/g for the SPS specimen was attributed to a marked reduction in the amount of free surfaces and subsequently uncompensated surface spins. At last, the observed dielectric characteristics of all the sintered pellets had a common dielectric behavior. This signifies that by increasing the frequency the ε′ and tanδ decline at lower frequencies and become frequency-independent at higher frequencies based upon the Maxwell-Wagner polarization theory. On the other hand, the ε′ value for the SPS sample produced at pH = 10.5 underwent a decline of 2.5 times at the low frequency of 200 Hz compared to the MS one due to the significant decrement of the grain boundaries on account of the coarsening of grains.

Significantly optimized piezoelectric catalytic properties of surface functionalized Nano-BaTiO3

In piezoelectric catalysis, the interaction between reaction molecules and the catalyst surface is of great significance for designing highly selective reaction processes. In this study, chemically functionalized BaTiO3 nanoparticles were fabricated using the hydrothermal method, and the piezoelectric catalytic activity was evaluated for degradation dye reactants by ultrasonic vibration. Due to surface modification of BaTiO3 nanoparticles, the carboxyl groups will be applied on the surface of BaTiO3 nanoparticles, resulting in the reduction in particle size and an increase in specific surface area. The adsorption of the carboxyl groups on the surface can also improve the ability of the BaTiO3 nanoparticles to capture the organic dyes. A high piezoelectric catalytic reaction rate constant of 0.0716 min−1, together with a degradation efficiency of >90 % was achieved within 30 min under 60 kHz and 100 W ultrasonic conditions. These results show that the surface modification of BaTiO3 nanoparticles brought excellent performance of piezoelectric catalysis by controlling the precursor and hydrothermal parameters. This study provides a new method for the preparation of chemically functionalized piezoelectric catalysts and design of other new highly selective catalysts.

154 Reduction of particle size of field peas increases net energy and digestibility of starch when fed to growing pigs

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that particle size of field peas and location of production may affect the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of starch, the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA), and net energy (NE). One source of peas from the U.S., and two sources from Canada were procured. The U.S. peas were ground to 265, 457, or 678 µm, whereas the two Canadian peas were ground to 411 and 415 µm, respectively. A basal diet containing corn and soybean meal as the sources of energy, starch, and AA, and five diets containing corn and soybean meal and 50% of each source of peas were formulated. Pigs were fed the same diets in Exp. 1 and 2, but an N-free diet was also used in Exp. 1. In Exp. 1, barrows [n = 7; initial body weight (BW) = 60.6 kg; SD = 2.1] that had a T-cannula installed in the distal ileum were allotted to a 7 × 7 Latin square design with seven diets and seven periods. Ileal digesta were collected and analyzed for Cr and AA. In Exp. 2, pigs (n = 24; initial BW = 30.8 kg; SD = 1.0) were used in a 6 × 6 Latin square design with six calorimetry chambers and six periods. To determine NE, feces and urine were quantitatively collected and O2 consumption and CO2 and CH4 productions were measured. In both Exp. 1 and 2, the statistical model included diet as the main effect and pairwise comparisons were used to separate the means. Contrast coefficients were also used to determine linear effects of particle size within the U.S. peas. Results from Exp. 1 indicated that the SID of AA was not influenced by the origin of the peas or by particle size, except that the SID of Arg was linearly (P = 0.042) increased (Table 1) as particle size of U.S. field peas was reduced. The AID of starch in the U.S. peas ground to 265 µm was greater (P < 0.05) than in the two Canadian sources, and the AID of starch and NE in diets were linearly (P < 0.001) increased as particle size was reduced. The NE in U.S. peas ground to 678 µm was less (P < 0.05) than in all other pea samples. In conclusion, AID of starch, SID of AA, and NE did not differ between field peas grown in Canada and peas grown in the U.S., but reducing the particle size of field peas resulted in improved digestibility of starch and energy by pigs.

Structure, mechanical, and neutron radiation shielding characteristics of mechanically milled nanostructured (100-x)Al-xGd2O3 metal composites

Metallic substances are favored for storing and transporting spent nuclear fuels (SNFs) due to their thermal stability, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance. Adding gadolinium (Gd) significantly enhances neutron shielding, improving efficiency with reduced thickness and dimensions. In this study, Al–Gd2O3 metal nanocomposites were synthesized using powder-processed mechanical milling. The crystal structure features of (100-x)Al-x%Gd2O3 samples with varying percentages of Gd2O3 (5 %, 10 %, and 15 % by weight) were analyzed by X-ray diffraction. Microstructural properties were studied using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). The synthesized composites' neutron and γ-radiation shielding characteristics were investigated theoretically using the MCNP6.2 transport code. Analysis of the XRD data revealed prominent peak shifts with increased milling time, indicating reduced particle sizes. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated Gd2O3-induced changes in temperature behavior, and the Vickers microhardness tests demonstrated enhanced mechanical strength with increasing gadolinium concentration. Improved neutron radiation shielding was observed with higher Gd2O3 content. Our study highlights the potential of Gd2O3-enriched metal matrix composites for advanced industrial applications.

Ultrasonic-assisted green extraction and incorporation of Spirulina platensis bioactive components into turmeric essential oil-in-water nanoemulsion for enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial activities

The utilization of essential oils as natural antioxidants and preservatives is limited by high volatility, poor water solubility, and long-term instability. To address this, a novel ultrasonic-assisted method was used to prepare and stabilize a nanoemulsion of turmeric essential oil-in-water, incorporating bioactive components extracted from Spirulina platensis. Ultrasonic treatment enhanced the extraction efficacy and nanoemulsion stability. Algal biomass subjected to ultrasonic treatment (30 min at 80% amplitude) yielded a dry extract of 73.66 ± 3.05%, with the highest protein, phenolic, phycocyanin, and allophycocyanin content, as well as maximum emulsifying activity. The resulting nanoemulsion (5% oil, 0.3% extract, 10 min ultrasonic treatment) showed reduced particle size (173.31 ± 2.24 nm), zeta potential (−36.33 ± 1.10 mV), low polydispersity index, and enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Rheology analysis indicated shear-thinning behavior, while microscopy and spectroscopy confirmed structural changes induced by ultrasonic treatment and extract concentration. This initiative developed a novel ultrasonic-assisted algal-based nanoemulsion with antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

Comparative investigation on physicochemical, biological, and cytotoxicity of magnesium oxide prepared by chemically mediated and green synthesis using the bark of Cassia absus Linn

The MgO nanoparticles were synthesized from the bark extract of Cassia absus Linn. and the chemical method. The green synthesized and chemically synthesized MgO nanoparticles were confirmed from the XRD and FTIR analysis. The green synthesized MgO showed reduced particle size and nanorods morphology whereas the chemically synthesized samples showed nanoflake morphology. The phenolic components present in the green synthesized MgO nanoparticles aided in the improved antioxidant properties and the improved surface area of MgO nanoparticles resulted in the slow and sustained drug release (10 % delay) which could be an attractive property in the delivery of the antibiotics. The sample is non-cytotoxic and the zebrafish embryo mortality rate is much lesser than that of the chemically synthesized MgO nanoparticles. The fibroblast viability was enhanced in the green synthesized MgO nanoparticles; therefore, the MgO nanoparticles could be used in drug delivery systems and tissue engineering applications.

Effect of pyrite particle size on the denitrification performance of autotrophic or split-mixotrophic bioreactors supported by pyrite/polycaprolactone.

In this study, a pyrite-based autotrophic denitrification (PAD) system, a polycaprolactone (PCL)-supported heterotrophic denitrification (PHD) system, and a pyrite+PCL-based split-mixotrophic denitrification (PPMD) system were constructed. The pyrite particle size was controlled in 1-3, 3-5, or 5-8mm in both the PAD and PPMD systems to investigate the effect of pyrite particle size on the denitrification performance of autotrophic or split-mixotrophic bioreactors. It was found that the PAD system achieved the best denitrification efficiency with an average removal rate of 98.98% in the treatment of 1- to 3-mm particle size, whereas it was only 19.24% in the treatment of 5- to 8-mm particle size. At different phases of the whole experiment, the nitrate removal rates of both the PHD and PPMD systems remained stable at a high level (>94%). Compared with the PAD or PHD system, the PPMD system reduced the concentrations of sulfate and chemical oxygen demand in the final effluent efficiently. The interconnection network diagram explained the intrinsic metabolic pathways of nitrogen, sulfur, and carbon in the three denitrification systems at different phases. In addition, the microbial community analysis showed that the PPMD system was beneficial for the enrichment of Firmicutes. Finally, the impact mechanism of pyrite particle size on the performance of the PPMD system was proposed. PRACTITIONER POINTS: The reduction of pyrite particle size was beneficial for improving the efficiency of the PAD process. The change in particle size had an effect on NO2 --N accumulation in the PAD system. The accumulation of NH4 +-N in the PPMD system increased with the decrease in particle size. The reduction of pyrite particle size increased the production of SO4 2- in the PAD and PPMD systems. The correlations among the effluent indicators of the PAD and PPMD systems could be well explained.

Niosome gels encapsulate green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) as an anti-acne-inducing bacterial and anti-inflammatory activity

This research aims to develop a niosome gel from green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) by maceration with an ethanol solvent. The result of the yield percentage was 14.35 ± 0.90. The result of analyzing the phytochemicals by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was that tannin and xanthone were equal to 0.7483 ± 0.0825 mg per 100 mg of extract and 0.02964 ± 0.0088 mg per 100 mg of extract, respectively. The results of the determination of the effect include anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial (Cutibacterium acnes) as anti-inflammatory with nitric oxide from LPS-induced macrophage cells up to a maximum equal to 29.10 ± 4.78% as a concentration at 1 mg mL–1 as acetonide can inhibit nitric oxide equal to 33.12 ± 3.62% as a concentration at 1 mg mL–1. and anti-bacterial (Cutibacterium acnes) by broth microdilution and drop plate methods, it was found that clindamycin has a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 0.08 μg mL–1 and 0.31 μg mL–1, respectively. The development of niosomes consisting of cholesterol, tween 60, and mangosteen peel extract at 1% w w–1 and 2% w w–1 in every formula showed good stability. The reduction of particle size in the formula by an ultrasonic bath at 30 minutes and measurement of particle size with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) were found to be equal to 1,265 and 123 – 219 nm, respectively. The polydispersity index (PDI) was in the range of 0.1 – 0.2, and the zeta potential value was in the range of –26.15 to –28.61 mV. The result of hydration and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) was found to be that after 4 weeks of use, the formula containing the niosomes of mangosteen peel extract concentrated at 2% w w–1 maximizes skin moisture. It has a value of 346 ± 39.27 and has the least surface water loss. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT HIGHLIGHTS The green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) can inhibiting nitric oxide production from LPS-induced macrophage cells up to 29.10 ± 4.78% at a concentration of 1 mg ml-1, the lowest inhibitory (MIC) and kill (MBC) concentration of C. acnes bacteria less than 0.24 mg ml-1. The particle size of niosomes encapsulate extracts before reducing particle size equal to 1,265 nm. and after reducing particle size in the range of 123 - 219 nm. The skin hydration value after using product for 4 weeks as niosome gel encapsulate extract 2%w w-1 of extract was maximum moisture and minimal water loss.

Manipulation of the leaching behaviour of high-alloyed steel EAF slags through the particle size modulation

The safe disposal of EAF slag have become crucial due the environmental and health protection regulations. Its direct reuse is hampered by the possible release of toxic elements into the surrounding environment over time. Specifically, EAF slag from high-alloyed steel production could potentially release toxic metals (e.g., Ba, Cr, Mo and V). Currently, the assessment of leaching behaviour is carried out according to the EN 12457:2002 standard, which generically specify that the material should not be finely ground, limiting the particle size as much as possible. However, no guidance is given on reducing particle size and handling fine fractions, which could lead to manipulation of data and variability of results. In this work six different fractions (from <4 mm to <63 μm) of EAF slag from high-alloyed steel production were investigated. X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and selective C2S dissolution were used to correlate the leaching behaviour with particle size and identify which mineral can alters the release of specific toxic elements. The pH of the water was measured immediately after filtration, and the solution was analysed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry. In addition, five mixtures were prepared using different mass fractions of the six granular fractions with the aim of unbalancing the mixtures toward coarser or finer fractions, respectively. All the mixtures were subjected to leaching under the same previous conditions and analysed to evaluate the behaviour of the different blended fractions. To investigate the predictability of the leaching behaviour of the mixtures, the experimental results were compared with the values predicted by a theoretical model calibrated using the results obtained from the leaching results of the six particle size fractions. The investigation showed that the leaching behaviour is negatively affected by the particle size reduction, mainly due to the increase of surface-to-volume ratio, which increases the dissolution rate. Similarly, the mass fraction of the main crystalline phases that regulate leaching (unstable spinels, brownmillerite and larnite) is also correlated with the change in particle size. Consequently, the leaching results for the mixtures highlighted a critical aspect contained in the European standard. Even small changes in particle size can lead to different concentrations of toxic metals in leachates, which can then be manipulated to achieve the desired result.

Chitosan/Alginate-Based Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Agents Delivery.

Nanoparticle systems integrating alginate and chitosan emerge as a promising avenue to tackle challenges in leveraging the potency of pharmacological active agents. Owing to their intrinsic properties as polysaccharides, alginate and chitosan, exhibit remarkable biocompatibility, rendering them conducive to bodily integration. By downsizing drug particles to the nano-scale, the system enhances drug solubility in aqueous environments by augmenting surface area. Additionally, the system orchestrates extended drug release kinetics, aligning well with the exigencies of chronic drug release requisite for antibacterial therapeutics. A thorough scrutiny of existing literature underscores a wealth of evidence supporting the utilization of the alginate-chitosan nanoparticle system for antibacterial agent delivery. Literature reviews present abundant evidence of the utilization of nanoparticle systems based on a combination of alginate and chitosan for antibacterial agent delivery. Various experiments demonstrate enhanced antibacterial efficacy, including an increase in the inhibitory zone diameter, improvement in the minimum inhibitory concentration, and an enhancement in the bacterial reduction rate. This enhancement in efficacy occurs due to mechanisms involving increased solubility resulting from particle size reduction, prolonged release effects, and enhanced selectivity towards bacterial cell walls, stemming from ionic interactions between positively charged particles and teichoic acid on bacterial cell walls. However, clinical studies remain limited, and there are currently no marketed antibacterial drugs utilizing this system. Hence, expediting clinical efficacy validation is crucial to maximize its benefits promptly.

Enhancing pozzolanic activity of fly ash via dry and wet milling: A comparative study for sustainable construction material enhancement

This investigation delineates the enhancement of fly ash (FA) properties through mechanical treatments for sustainable construction applications and reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. FA, a byproduct of coal combustion in power generation, inherently exhibits limited pozzolanic activity. This research evaluates the impact of particle size reduction via dry and wet milling treatments on FA's pozzolanic behavior. The study's comparative analysis involves three FA variants: untreated raw material, dry-milled, and wet-milled FA. Extensive characterization encompassed chemical composition, physical properties, and microstructural features. Results demonstrate a marked improvement in pozzolanic activity in milled FAs, with wet milling yielding superior outcomes in particle size reduction (98% diminution compared to raw FA) and pozzolanic reactivity. The comparative assessment underscores wet milling's efficacy over dry milling and untreated FA in enhancing FA's performance as a sustainable construction material. In light of these findings, the study advocates for continued exploration of FA treatments, aiming to optimize their utility in eco-friendly construction practices.

Development and physicochemical characterization of nanostructured lipid carriers for entrapment of vitamin D3 prepared at different lipid ratios

Development and physicochemical characterization of nanostructured lipid carriers for entrapment of vitamin D3 prepared at different lipid ratios

Nanoencapsulation of Bixin and Norbixin in Sodium Alginate: Preparation, Characterization, and Release in Food Simulant

Aims: Bixin and norbixin are natural antioxidants used as pigments in the food industry, but their chemical structure makes them susceptible to environmental factors (light, oxygen, and temperature). Background: Nanoencapsulation techniques can improve the stability and solubility of these compounds in addition to reducing particle size which can increase surface:volume ratio and provide many attractive and unique properties to the nanoparticles. Objective: In this study, sodium alginate was used as wall material for the encapsulation of bixin and norbixin in different concentrations (1.25, 2.5, 5, and 7.5 g/g of biopolymer), by emulsification/internal gelation method. Methods: The emulsification/internal gelation method was used to elaborate bixin or norbixin-loaded nanospheres. The internal phase of the water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion was prepared with an aqueous solution of sodium alginate (1.5% w/v – 40 mL), 0.12 g of CaCO3, bixin or norbixin pigments, and mechanically stirred for 15 min at 700 rpm. Results: Nanospheres containing the highest concentration of both carotenoids showed better encapsulation efficiency, with 37.86% for bixin and 51.47% for norbixin, and these formulations were used for characterization analyses. The mean size of the nanospheres was 741.9 ± 41.0 nm, 622.9 ± 71.0 nm, and 589.5 ± 99.1 nm for control particles, bixin, and norbixin, respectively. The addition of both carotenoids resulted in particles with a yellow-red color, which demonstrates the encapsulation of natural antioxidants. The thermal analysis results may indicate an increase in the thermal stability of the pigments after encapsulation, in addition, the nanospheres exhibited the ability to scavenge the ABTS+ radical. Carotenoids release test in food simulant (95% ethanol) presented a rapid release in the first hours and maintenance of concentration for 10 days. Conclusion: Results showed that these nanospheres could be an alternative to the application of these carotenoid pigments in food matrices and food packaging.

A multifunctional biogenic films and coatings from synergistic aqueous dispersion of wood-derived suberin and cellulose nanofibers

Here, biogenic and multifunctional active food coatings and packaging with UV shielding and antimicrobial properties were structured from the aqueous dispersion of an industrial byproduct, suberin, which was stabilized with amphiphilic cellulose nanofibers (CNF). The dual-functioning CNF, synthesized in a deep eutectic solvent, functioned as an efficient suberin dispersant and reinforcing agent in the packaging design. The nanofibrillar percolation network of CNF provided a steric hindrance against the coalescence of the suberin particles. The low CNF dosage of 0.5 wt% resulted in dispersion with optimal viscosity (208.70 Pa.s), enhanced stability (instability index of <0.001), and reduced particle size (9.37 ± 2.43 μm). The dispersion of suberin and CNF was further converted into self-standing films with superior UV-blocking capability, good thermal stability, improved hydrophobicity (increase in water contact angle from 61° ± 0.15 to 83° ± 5.11), and antimicrobial properties against gram-negative bacteria. Finally, the synergistic bicomponent dispersions were demonstrated as fruit coatings for bananas and packaging for strawberries to promote their self-life. The coatings and packaging considerably mitigated fruit deterioration and improved their freshness by preventing moisture loss and microbial attack. This sustainable approach is expected to pave the way toward advanced, biogenic, and active food packaging based on widely available bioresources.