Silicon Content Research Articles

Exploring the impact of rice husk biochar on oxidative mechanisms and salt stress tolerance in lettuce plants

Salt stress, which impairs plant growth and induces oxidative stress, presents a major challenge in agriculture. In response, biochar has emerged as a promising soil amendment, capable of enhancing plants’ stress tolerance mechanisms. This study investigated the impact of rice husk biochar (RBC), derived from rice husks, on enhancing salt stress tolerance in lettuce plants grown under greenhouse conditions. Molecular and chemical characterization of the biochar samples was performed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. Salinity reduced the fresh and dry weights of the plants from 25.0 g plant−1 and 1.83 g plant−1 to 20.4 g plant−1 and 1.42 g plant−1, respectively. The application of RBC recovered the growth decline caused by salinity, increasing the fresh and dry weights of the plants to 28.1 g plant−1 and 1.83 g plant−1, respectively. While the concentrations of sodium and chloride in plants decreased with RBC application, potassium and silicon concentrations significantly increased. As a result of salt stress, hydrogen peroxide levels (H2O2) increased in plant tissues, and a decrease in H2O2 levels was observed with an increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Consequently, RBC proved to be effective in enhancing salt tolerance in lettuce plants. In conclusion, while RBC demonstrates significant potential for enhancing salt tolerance, its successful application depends on several factors such as biochar dosage, application method, soil type, and plant species, underscoring the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms at play and optimize its use for sustainable soil management in saline conditions.

Silicon Modifies Photosynthesis Efficiency and hsp Gene Expression in European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) Seedlings Exposed to Drought Stress.

Background: Climate change is leading to severe and long-term droughts in European forest ecosystems. can have profound effects on various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, gene expression patterns, and nutrient uptake at the developmental stage of young trees. Objectives: Our study aimed to test the hypothesis that the application of silica (SiO2) influences photosynthetic efficiency and gene expression in 1- to 2-year-old Fagus sylvatica (L.) seedlings. Additionally, we aimed to assess whether silicon application positively influences the structural properties of leaves and roots. To determine whether the plant physiological responses are genotype-specific, seedlings of four geographically different provenances were subjected to a one-year evaluation under greenhouse conditions. Methods: We used the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Wilcoxon's test to evaluate the differences in silicon content and ANOVA followed by Tukey's test to evaluate the physiological responses of seedlings depending on treatment and provenance. Results: Our results showed a significantly higher Si content in the roots compared with the leaves, regardless of provenance and treatment. The most significant differences in photosynthetic performance were found in trees exposed to Si treatment, but the physiological responses were generally nuanced and provenance-dependent. Expression of hsp70 and hsp90 was also increased in leaf tissues of all provenances. These results provide practical insights that Si can improve the overall health and resilience of beech seedlings in nursery and forest ecosystems, with possible differences in the beneficial role of silicon application arising from the large differences in wild populations of forest tree species.

Determination of the silicon content of geological materials by reactor fast neutron activation analysis

Determination of the silicon content of geological materials by reactor fast neutron activation analysis

Study of Microstructural Evolution and Strain Analysis in SiOx/C Negative Electrodes Using In‐situ X‐ray Tomography and Digital Volume Correlation

Increasing the silicon content in batteries is expected to enhance their capacity. However, its implementation comes with challenges, as silicon exhibits a large volumetric expansion. This is a significant factor contributing to the decreased lifespan of these batteries, one of the critical degradation mechanisms from a mechanical perspective is the delamination of electrode structure. The cyclability of these anodes is noted to be influenced by the interaction between the binder and particles during battery cycling. The heavy local strain experienced by particles in these electrodes often leads to binder failure, resulting in particle detachment, or delamination over multiple cycles. A good understanding of the local evolution of the strain is essential in advancing the mechanical modelling of the degradation mechanism and in realizing the complete potential of silicon‐based electrodes. In this work, in situ global and local strain measurements were performed by combining synchrotron tomography with Digital volume correlation (DVC). The measurements showed that there is significant local strain in these electrodes which can lead to delamination. In addition to this, the spatial variability of the composite electrodes was characterized by estimating the characteristic length to strain, which can be used to replicate the strain field and model the delamination.

Unlocking higher yields in Urochloa brizantha: the role of basalt powder in enhancing soil nutrient availability

This study investigates the effect of basalt powder on soil fertility through changes in its chemical characteristics and the response of Urochloa brizantha to different application doses. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using two distinct soil types: Oxisol (OX) and Typic Quartzipsamment (TQ). Basalt powder dosages were determined based on the calcium levels required to adjust calcium contents in each soil (Ca2+) to recommended levels for the U. brizantha,ranging from 0 to 4 times the recommended amount. After 170 days of incubation, soil samples were collected for analysis to evaluate soil attributes. U. brizantha was then planted to assess the efficiency of basalt powder, which was harvested at 40 days after sowing (first cut) and 70 days after sowing (second cut). The accumulation of nutrients and shoot dry mass (SDM) production were subsequently measured. The findings revealed that applying the highest dose of basalt powder (96 Mg ha−1) substantially elevated pH, and increased concentrations of phosphorus (P), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), copper (Cu), boron (B), and silicon (Si) in Oxisol (OX), while decreasing aluminum (Al3+) contents in the same soil. Furthermore, an average increase in the SDM of both U. brizantha harvests was observed, with a 6% increase in TQ and a 27% increase in OX. Additionally, an increase in the accumulation of P, K, Ca, Mg, and sulphur (S) in the shoot dry mass of the plants was observed with the basalt powder doses. These findings suggest that basalt powder has the potential to be an environmentally friendly alternative for soil fertilization, with positive impacts on soil chemical attributes and plant growth and nutrition.

Densities, Surface Tensions, and Viscosities of Molten High‐Silicon Electrical Steels with Different Silicon Contents

Density, surface tension, and viscosity of various liquid electrical steels are measured at different temperatures, varying in their silicon content between 3 and 6 mass%. Density and surface tension are determined using the maximum bubble pressure method, while viscosity is investigated comparatively using a vibrating finger viscometer and an oscillating crucible viscometer. The results are compared with models known from the literature. Based on this, the density of the steel [ρ] = kg m−3 and the surface tension [σ] = N m−1 can be described as a function of temperature [θ] = °C and silicon content [Si] = mass% using the equations: , . There is a lack of experimental data in the literature for high‐temperature thermophysical properties for electrical steels. This underlines once again the novelty and significance of this study, as the determined thermophysical properties are essential for a wide range of applications. For instance, they are crucial in the production of metallic powders for additive manufacturing by atomization to adjust the properties of the powders precisely. The findings are also important for steelmaking itself, as the corrosion behavior of refractory material can be better determined.

High‐Temperature Oxidation of Fe–Si Alloys in Atmospheres Containing 2.0% SO2 + 5.0% O2

The microstructure and composition of the scales formed are examined after being exposed to atmosphere containing 2.0% SO2 + 5.0% O2 for 60 min in the temperature range of 900–1200 °C. The composition of the scale post‐oxidation primarily varies with temperature rather than silicon content. FeS exhibits a melting temperature of 950 °C, whereas FeSi2O4 melts at 1150 °C. Two mechanisms for FeS formation are proposed. Eutectoid transformation of molten FeS occurs during subsequent cooling, resulting in lamellar FeS + Fe–S–O compounds. Above 1150 °C, the melt of Fe2SiO4 further increases the Fe diffusion rate. This dual‐liquefaction mechanism involving FeS and Fe2SiO4 accounts for the anomalous oxidative mass gain observed in Fe–Si alloys exposed to a sulfur‐containing atmosphere.

Changes in the liver of Djungarian hamsters under conditions of a three-month supply of water-soluble silicon of various concentrations

BACKGROUND: Silicon enters the human body through drinking water, air and food. Silicon nanoparticles used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries are known to have biological activity. Taking into account the widespread prevalence of silicon compounds, the issue of the safety of its use is becoming more urgent. AIM: To study the effect of water-soluble silicon on the morphological structure of the liver of Djungarian hamsters for three months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experiment was carried out on Djungarian hamsters kept in normal vivarium conditions under natural light. The animals were divided into three groups: control, which received bottled drinking water; the first experimental group, which received the same water, but with the addition of sodium metasilicate nine-hydrate at a concentration of 10 mg/l in terms of silicon; the second experimental group, which also received the same water, but with the concentration of sodium metasilicate nine-hydrate doubled (up to 20 mg/l). After three months, the animals were removed from the experiment. Sections were processed by general histological (hematoxylin and eosin, Van Gieson method, toluidine blue), histochemical (monoamine oxidase-positive cells) methods. RESULTS: In the liver of hamsters from the experimental groups, changes in the micromorphological structure were revealed, such as an increase in the nuclear area, nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio of hepatocytes, and the diameter of sinusoidal capillaries. Moreover, more pronounced changes were observed in the liver of hamsters of the second experimental group, such as polymorphic cell infiltration of the portal tracts, an increase in the number of eosinophils, deformation of hepatocyte nuclei and the appearance of apoptotic bodies. A decrease in the area of mast cells and an increase in their number, as well as the number of monoamine oxidase-positive cells in the liver of hamsters of both experimental groups were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: An increase in the concentration of silicon supplied with drinking water in both cases is reflected in the micromorphological structure of the liver of hamsters. Moreover these changes are more pronounced in the liver of hamsters of the second experimental group.

High-volume utilization of circulating fluidized bed fly ash for the production of autoclaved aerated concrete: Performance optimization and hydration characteristics

Circulating fluidized bed fly ash (CFA) is a waste emitted from coal combustion process in circulating fluidized bed boilers. The high SO3 and f-CaO content severely limits its application in building materials. The purpose of this study is to explore the possibility of large-scale application of CFA in autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). The preparation parameters of AAC were discussed and the performance was optimized. Moreover, the workability and environmental properties of AAC were explored. The results indicated that AAC was well adapted to high CFA content, although a high CFA content caused a higher water demand as well as a reduction in the silicon content. The introduction of quartz sand and blast furnace slag effectively addressed the problems of insufficient active silica and high specific gravity. When the CFA doping was 50 %, H4 sample showed the best mechanical properties (3.82 MPa and 641 kg/m3), which meet the requests of A3.5, B06 in the Chinese national standard GB/T 11968–2020. Moreover, the toxicity leaching results showed that H4 sample was green and harmless. During the performance optimization process, more well-crystallized tobermorite was produced, whose crystal form changed from acicular to slat. Massive C-S-H gels and better crystallinity of tobermorite were observed, where were bonded and intercalated with each other, thus enhancing the properties. The paper may provide guidance for high dosing of CFA in AAC.

The oxidation-resistant Mo30Si60B10 coating for protection of the T2 phase-based molybdenum alloy

This study focuses on fabrication of a Mo30Si60B10 coating with elevated silicon content, which enhances working properties of Mo-alloy based on the Т2 phase (t-Mo5SiB2). The Mo30Si60B10 coating has a columnar structure. The alloy is characterized by hardness of 17 GPa; Young's modulus of 304 GPa, and elastic recovery of 29 %. Deposition of the coating increased hardness by 40 %; the Young's modulus, by 18 %; and elastic recovery, by 25 %. Oxidation tests at 1200 °C demonstrated that the specific mass loss of the alloy with Mo30Si60B10 coating was 1.5-fold lower than that of the uncoated alloy. An 18 μm thick oxide layer based on a-SiВO and containing MoO2 particles was formed on the alloy surface. The coating contributes to a ∼14-fold reduction of oxide layer thick. The increase in oxidation resistance of alloy after coating deposition is related to sealing of substrate defects and formation of an a-SiВO layer with elevated silicon content.

The Effect of a Dual-Layer Coating for High-Capacity Silicon/Graphite Negative Electrodes on the Electrochemical Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Silicon-based electrodes offer a high theoretical capacity and a low cost, making them a promising option for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. However, their practical use is limited due to significant volume changes during charge/discharge cycles, which negatively impact electrochemical performance. This study proposes a practical method to increase silicon content in lithium-ion batteries with minimal changes to the manufacturing process by using dual-layer electrodes (DLEs). These DLEs are fabricated with two slurries containing silicon and graphite as active materials. Notably, the electrode with the silicon as the outermost layer on top of the graphite layer (Si-on-top) demonstrated a superior initial capacity of 935 mAh/g and retained 70% of its capacity (537 mAh/g) after 100 cycles at 0.5 C. In contrast, a single-layered electrode (SLE) with a silicon–graphite mixture retained only 50.3% of its capacity (370 mAh/g) under the same conditions. These findings suggest that DLEs, particularly with the silicon layer located on top, effectively increase silicon content in the negative electrode while remaining compatible with existing manufacturing processes. This approach offers a realistic strategy for enhancing the performance of lithium-ion batteries without significant process modifications.

Lattice Parameter of Austenite in Silicon Cast Irons

Upon solidification, graphitic cast irons undergo a volume change whose amplitude depends on two opposite terms, the contraction associated with austenite formation and the expansion due to graphite crystallization. During cooling after solidification, further precipitation of graphite occurs that continuously changes the physical properties of the material and possibly affects the eutectoid transformation that transforms the matrix from austenitic to ferritic or ferritic-pearlitic. This work intended to study the density of graphitic cast irons at high temperature, i.e., in the temperature range where the matrix is austenitic. High-temperature laboratory X-rays have been carried out on several alloys containing various carbon and silicon contents to characterize the austenite mean lattice parameter. By complementing these results with literature data, a statistical analysis was carried out that expresses the austenite mean lattice parameter as a function of temperature and composition, evidencing the high uncertainty related to the austenite carbon content. Finally, one of the investigated alloys was submitted to a simultaneous dilatometry and X-ray analysis in a synchrotron from room temperature to 1050 °C. The data are used to discuss the austenite lattice parameter prediction and the possibility of density prediction.

Eutrophication of Lakes: From Global Process to Regional Implication in the Kola Arctic Region

ABSTRACTEutrophication of water bodies is analysed as a global process. The volumes of globally increasing use of nitrogen and phosphorus are demonstrated, with the dispersion of these elements leading to increased nutrient contents in lakes and rivers. Results of original studies on remote lakes in the Arctic zone indicate that the content of nutrients in these lakes has increased over the past decades. Concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and organic matter in lake waters tend to increase in the absence of anthropogenic effects. Simultaneously, the silicon concentrations were found to decrease because of the consumption by diatoms. Low concentrations of bioavailable nutrients confirm that these nutrients are rapidly spent in the production processes of ecosystems. The calculated trophic state index (according to R. Carlson) indicates that the number of oligotrophic lakes in the forest tundra zone decreased by 50% by 2010–2018, and these lakes are absent from the northern taiga zone. Temperature increase and climate warming in the Arctic zone first caused the increase in the contents of nutrients in the lakes and their trophic states.

Physicochemical processes during solidification and the peculiarities of structure formation in aerated concretes using metallic silicon as a gas generator

The results of research on the structure and phase composition of non-autoclaved aerated concrete with a density of 550–750 kg/m3 using metallic silicon as a gas generator are presented. The peculiarities of the structure formation of aerated concrete products and the mineralogical composition of their hydration products were investigated. It was established that increasing the content of metallic silicon in aerated concrete leads to an increase in the pore space of the compositions. The results of diffractometric and thermal analysis methods for establishing the phase composition of aerated concrete compositions with metallic silicon as a gas generator are also presented. Analysis of XRD patterns and derivatograms showed that the aerated concrete samples under investigation contain a binder component, obermorite (5CaO6SiO25.5H2O); xonotlite (6CaO6SiO2H2O); -dicalcium silicate hydrate (2CaOSiO2H2O); and hillebrandite (2CaOSiO21.17H2O). It was established that increasing the amount of metallic silicon as a gas generator stimulates an increase in the content of hydrated phases in aerated concrete compositions.

Physicochemical processes during solidification and the peculiarities of structure formation in aerated concretes using metallic silicon as a gas generator

The results of research on the structure and phase composition of non-autoclaved aerated concrete with a density of 550–750 kg/m3 using metallic silicon as a gas generator are presented. The peculiarities of the structure formation of aerated concrete products and the mineralogical composition of their hydration products were investigated. It was established that increasing the content of metallic silicon in aerated concrete leads to an increase in the pore space of the compositions. The results of diffractometric and thermal analysis methods for establishing the phase composition of aerated concrete compositions with metallic silicon as a gas generator are also presented. Analysis of XRD patterns and derivatograms showed that the aerated concrete samples under investigation contain a binder component, obermorite (5CaO6SiO25.5H2O); xonotlite (6CaO6SiO2H2O); -dicalcium silicate hydrate (2CaOSiO2H2O); and hillebrandite (2CaOSiO21.17H2O). It was established that increasing the amount of metallic silicon as a gas generator stimulates an increase in the content of hydrated phases in aerated concrete compositions.

Synthesis and Characterization of Silicon Nanoparticles from Coal Fly Ash Using Ultrasonication as a Battery Anode

Fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, is rich in silica, alumina, and other minerals, making it a valuable resource for extracting high-purity silicon. The synthesis of silicon nanoparticles from coal fly ash involves several critical steps, including the extraction of silica (SiO2) via the sol-gel method, reduction of silica to silicon using the metallothermic method, and subsequent ultrasonication to achieve nanoscale particles. Studies have shown that fly ash can contain up to 49.21% silica, which can be further purified to 93.52% via chemical extraction methods such as acid leaching and alkali dissolution. The reduction of silica to silicon is carried out using the metallothermic method, which involves the use of magnesium-reducing agents to convert SiO2 to elemental silicon. This process produces silicon with a purity of about 61.3%, which can be further increased through ultrasonication. Ultrasonication is a technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to break particles into smaller sizes, resulting in more uniform and homogeneous nanoparticles. In this study, ultrasonication for 60 and 120 min reduced the average particle size of silicon from 208.94 nm to 58.87 nm and 20.13 nm, respectively, and increased the silicon content to 74.6% and 72.7%. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and distribution particle analyses confirmed the particle size reduction and homogeneity of silicon nanoparticles, indicating the effectiveness of ultrasonication in producing high-quality silicon nanoparticles. The synthesized silicon nanoparticles have significant potential applications, particularly as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries, due to their increased surface area and improved electrochemical properties. Furthermore, the use of fly ash as a raw material for the synthesis of silicon nanoparticles not only provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional silica sources but also helps in reducing the environmental impact of fly ash disposal. The integration of the methods and findings of this study underscores the feasibility and benefits of using coal fly ash for the sustainable production of silicon nanoparticles, which can be utilized in energy storage as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries.

Low-Carbon Steel Formed by DRECE Method with Hot-Dip Zinc Galvanizing and Potentiodynamic Polarization Tests to Study Its Corrosion Behavior

The use of low-carbon unalloyed steel with minimal silicon content is widespread in structural steel and automotive applications due to its ease of manipulation. The mechanical properties of this steel can be significantly enhanced through severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques. Our study focuses on the practical benefits of the dual rolling equal channel extrusion (DRECE) method, which strengthens the steel and has implications for material hardness and the thickness of subsequently applied hot-dip zinc galvanizing. Furthermore, the steel’s corrosion potential and current are investigated as a function of material hardness and thickness. The findings show a 20% increase in hardness HV 30 after the first run through the forming machine, with an additional 10% increase after the second run. Subsequent galvanizing leads to a further 1–12% increase in HV 30 value. Notably, the DRECE hardening demonstrates no statistically significant effect on the corrosion potential and current; however, the impact of galvanizing is as anticipated.

Waste Symbiosis through the Synthesis of Highly Crystalline LTA and SOD Zeolites.

In recent years, the demand for natural and synthetic zeolites has surged due to their distinctive properties and myriad industrial applications. This research aims to synthesise crystalline zeolites by co-recycling two industrial wastes: salt slag (SS) and rice husk ash (RHA). Salt slag, a problematic by-product of secondary aluminium smelting, is classified as hazardous waste due to its reactive and leachable nature, though it is rich in aluminium. Conversely, RHA, an abundant and cost-effective by-product of the agro-food sector, boasts a high silicon content. These wastes were utilised as aluminium and silicon sources for synthesising various zeolites. This study examined the effects of temperature, ageing time, and sodium concentration on the formation of different zeolite phases and their crystallinity. Results indicated that increased Na+ concentration favoured sodalite (SOD) zeolite formation, whereas Linde type-A (LTA) zeolite formation was promoted at higher temperatures and extended ageing times. The formation range of the different zeolites was defined and supported by crystallographic, microstructural, and morphological analyses. Additionally, the thermal behaviour of the zeolites was investigated. This work underscores the potential to transform industrial waste, including hazardous materials like salt slag, into sustainable, high-value materials, fostering efficient waste co-recycling and promoting clean, sustainable industrial production through cross-sectoral industrial symbiosis.

Significant alleviation of cadmium toxicity in Thalassiosira weissflogii through the combined effect of high silicon and zinc supplementation

Cadmium (Cd), a prevalent pollutant in near-shore seawater ecosystems, poses a significant threat to marine biota. Zinc (Zn) and Cd can have interchangeable physiological effects in marine plankton, and both can influence the synthesis of siliceous walls. Consequently, the concentrations of zinc and silicon may jointly impact the toxicity of Cd. This study endeavors to elucidate the combined effect of silicon (Si) and zinc (Zn) on the growth and physiological responses of the marine diatom species Thalassiosira weissflogii when subjected to Cd-induced stress conditions (190.7 μg L−1). Our results reveal statistically improvements (p<0.05) in biomass production, reductions (p<0.05) in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and extracellular secretion in T. weissflogii when high concentrations of Si (172 µmol L−1) and Zn (18.3 nmol L−1) were applied simultaneously. Additionally, examination of Cd bioconcentration factors (BCF) derived from Cd uptake kinetics and intracellular Cd content measurements underscores the ability of elevated Si and Zn concentrations to reduce intracellular Cd accumulation (p<0.05). The ability of Si and Zn to mitigate Cd toxicity was further evidenced by increased cellular biosilica content and maintenance of cell morphology, suggesting a protective role in preserving structural integrity and growth. Our findings underscore the synergistic benefits of Si and Zn in enhancing the resilience of T. weissflogii to Cd stress, providing valuable insights into the potential use of nutrient amendments as a strategy for mitigating heavy metal contamination in marine environments.

Influence of Silicon on Solidification Behavior, Microstructure and Oxidation Resistance of Gray Iron for Cookware Applications

Gray iron, a widely used engineering material, is favored for its desirable properties such as good damping capacity, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance. However, when exposed to elevated temperatures over time, issues like oxidation and graphite depletion can impact its durability. High-silicon gray iron, with elevated silicon content exceeding 3.0%, is known for its ability to withstand heat and oxidation, making it suitable for many applications, including cookware. This study investigates the impact of varying silicon levels (2.00-4.56%Si) on the solidification behavior, microstructure, and oxidation resistance of gray iron. Three heats with different silicon concentrations were produced and analyzed. Results indicated that higher silicon content increases the eutectoid temperature, stabilizes the ferritic structure, and introduces Type-D graphite in the microstructure. Graphite depletion was observed only in samples with 2.00%Si. The oxidation resistance improved with higher silicon content, as evidenced by a decrease in weight gain after exposure to 800 °C for 4 hours. This suggests the potential of using lower silicon levels in gray iron for cookware applications, balancing material cost with good impact resistance.