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Aromatic sensitizers and related substances (SRCs), which are crucial in the paper industry for facilitating color‐forming and color‐developing chemical reactions, inadvertently contaminate effluents during paper recycling. Owing to their structural resemblance to endocrine‐disrupting aromatic organic compounds, concerns have arisen about potential adverse effects on aquatic organisms. We focused on SRC effects via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), employing molecular docking simulations and zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo exposure assessments. Molecular docking revealed heightened binding affinities between certain SRCs in the paper recycling effluents and zebrafish Ahr2 and human AHR, which are pivotal components in the SRC toxicity mechanism. Fertilized zebrafish eggs were exposed to SRCs for up to 96 h post fertilization; among these substances, benzyl 2‐naphthyl ether (BNE) caused morphological abnormalities, such as pericardial edema and shortened body length, at relatively low concentrations (1 μM) during embryogenesis. Gene expression of cytochrome P450 1A (cyp1a) and ahr2 was also significantly increased by BNE. Co‐exposure to the AHR antagonist CH‐223191 only partially mitigated BNE's phenotypic effects, despite the effects of 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin being relatively well restored by CH‐223191, indicating BNE's AHR‐independent toxic mechanisms. Furthermore, some SRCs, including BNE, exhibited in silico binding affinity to the estrogen receptor and upregulation of cyp19a1b gene expression. Therefore, additional insights into the toxicity of SRCs and their mechanisms are essential. The present results provide important information on SRCs and other papermaking chemicals that could help minimize the environmental impact of the paper industry. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1–13. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capturing short‐lived intermediates at the molecular level is key to understanding the mechanism and dynamics of chemical reactions. Here, we have developed a paper‐in‐tip bipolar electrolytic electrospray mass spectrometry platform, in which a piece of triangular conductive paper incorporated into a plastic pipette tip serves not only as an electrospray emitter but also as a bipolar electrode (BPE), thus triggering both electrospray and electrolysis simultaneously upon application of a high voltage. The bipolar electrolysis induces a pair of redox reactions on both sides of BPE, enabling both electro‐oxidation and electro‐reduction processes regardless of the positive or negative ion mode, thus facilitating access to complementary structural information for mechanism elucidation. Our method enables real‐time monitoring of transient intermediates (such as N,N‐dimethylaniline radical cation, dopamine o‐quinone (DAQ) and sulfenic acid with half‐lives ranging from microseconds to minutes) and transient processes (such as DAQ cyclization with a rate constant of 0.15 s−1). This platform also provides key insights into electrocatalytic reactions such as Fe (III)‐catalyzed dopamine oxidation to quinone species at physiological pH for neuromelanin formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capturing short‐lived intermediates at the molecular level is key to understanding the mechanism and dynamics of chemical reactions. Here, we have developed a paper‐in‐tip bipolar electrolytic electrospray mass spectrometry platform, in which a piece of triangular conductive paper incorporated into a plastic pipette tip serves not only as an electrospray emitter but also as a bipolar electrode (BPE), thus triggering both electrospray and electrolysis simultaneously upon application of a high voltage. The bipolar electrolysis induces a pair of redox reactions on both sides of BPE, enabling both electro‐oxidation and electro‐reduction processes regardless of the positive or negative ion mode, thus facilitating access to complementary structural information for mechanism elucidation. Our method enables real‐time monitoring of transient intermediates (such as N,N‐dimethylaniline radical cation, dopamine o‐quinone (DAQ) and sulfenic acid with half‐lives ranging from microseconds to minutes) and transient processes (such as DAQ cyclization with a rate constant of 0.15 s−1). This platform also provides key insights into electrocatalytic reactions such as Fe (III)‐catalyzed dopamine oxidation to quinone species at physiological pH for neuromelanin formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a new, direct paper-based fluorimetric method is described for the quantitative determination of glutathione (GSH) molecules in nutritional supplements. Briefly, the proposed analytical method is based on the fluorescence emission resulting from the direct and selective chemical reaction of GSH molecules with the derivatization reagent that is o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) in acidic conditions at room temperature. The intensity of the emitted fluorescence on the surface of the analytical paper devices after irradiation with a lamp at 365 nm is proportional to the concentration of GSH and is measured using a smartphone as the detector. This methodology, which is suitable for measurements in laboratories with limited resources, does not require specialized instrumentation or trained personnel. The protocol governing the proposed method is simple and easily applicable. Essentially, the chemical analyst should adjust the value of pH on the surface of the paper by adding a minimal amount of buffer solution; then, after adding a few microliters of the derivatization reagent, wait for the surface of the paper to dry and, finally, add the analyte. Subsequently, the irradiation of the sensor and the measurement of the emitted fluorescence can be recorded with a mobile phone. In the present study, several parameters affecting the chemical reaction and the emitted fluorescence were optimized, the effect of interfering compounds that may be present in dietary supplements was examined, and the stability of these paper sensors under different storage conditions was evaluated. Additionally, the chemical stability of these paper devices in various maintenance conditions was studied, with satisfactory results. The detection limit calculated as 3.3 S/N was 20.5 μmol L−1, while the precision of the method was satisfactory, ranging from 3.1% (intra-day) to 7.3% (inter-day). Finally, the method was successfully applied to three different samples of dietary supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Filter paper was selected as the template for synthesis of 1D NiO/NiCo 2 O 4 composite. • Ultra simple synthetic procedures of only metal salts adsorption and calcination was referred. • The effective bandwidth is up to 6.08 GHz at thin thickness of 1.88 mm. Filter paper, as a widely used and low-cost lab consumable, can serve as template for the synthesis of one-dimensional (1D) materials since it is composed of 1D cellulosic fiber. In this work, 1D NiO/NiCo 2 O 4 composite was simply fabricated by adsorption of Ni and Co acetate on the filter paper and subsequent calcination process. The precursors were obtained without further treatment to filter paper or chemical reaction between metal salts. Calcination process leads to the removal of template and formation of binary NiO/NiCo 2 O 4 composite. Electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption performance of NiO/NiCo 2 O 4 composite could be tuned by adjusting the calcination temperatures and dosage of metal salts. For the optimized absorber (calcination temperature of 600 °C and dosage of Ni and Co acetate with 2 mmol and 4 mmol), a wide absorption bandwidth of 6.08 GHz could be achieved with thickness of 1.88 mm and minimum reflection loss value was up to −57.4 dB by changing the thickness. The facile synthetic route may also inspire the preparation of other high-performance one-dimensional EM wave absorbing materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Paper spray (PS) is a simple and innovative ambient ionization technique for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. Under PS‐MS conditions, chemical reactions, which usually occur slowly on a bulk scale, are accelerated. Moreover, the formation of products and transient species can be easily monitored. In this manuscript, reactions between phthalic anhydride and diamines were conducted and monitored using a PS‐MS platform. The reaction products (phthalimides) have many pharmaceutical applications, but their traditional syntheses can take hours under reflux, requiring laborious purification steps. Methods: In situ reactions were performed by dropping methanolic solutions of phthalic anhydride and diamines on a triangular paper. The analyses were achieved by positioning the triangle tip in front of the mass spectrometer entrance, whereas a metal clip was attached to the triangle base. After adding methanol to the paper, a high voltage was applied across the metal clip, and the mass spectra were acquired. Results: The intrinsic reactivity of alkyl and aromatic diamines was evaluated. The carbon chain remarkably influenced the reactivity of aliphatic diamines. For aryl diamines, the ortho isomer was the most reactive. Moreover, for aryl amines with electron‐withdrawing substituents, no reaction was noticed. Conclusions: Taking advantage of the unique characteristics of PS‐MS, it was possible to investigate the intrinsic reactivity of model alkyl (ethylene versus propylene) and aryl (o‐phenylene versus m‐phenylene and p‐phenylene) diamines towards phthalic anhydride. Some crucial parameters that affect the intrinsic reactivity of organic molecules, such as isomerism, intramolecular interaction, and conformation, were easily explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophobic coatings are of utmost importance for many applications of paper-based materials. However, to date, most coating methods demand vast amounts of chemicals and solvents. Frequently, fossil-based coating materials are being used and multiple derivatization reactions are often required to obtain desired performances. In this work, we present a solvent-free paper-coating process, where olive oil as the main biogenic component is being used to obtain a hydrophobic barrier on paper. UV-induced thiol-ene photocrosslinking of olive oil was pursued in a solvent-free state at a wavelength of 254 nm without addition of photoinitiator. Optimum reaction conditions were determined in advance using oleic acid as a model compound. Paper coatings based on olive oil crosslinked by thiol-ene reaction reach water contact angles of up to 120°. By means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, a successful reaction and the formation of a polymer network within the coating can be proven. These results show that click-chemistry strategies can be used to achieve hydrophobic polymeric paper coatings while keeping the amount of non-biobased chemicals and reaction steps at a minimum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictive models for the transport of volatile organic compounds in paper need to consider the complex interplay of diffusion, adsorption, desorption, or chemical reactions. The relative importance of each of these processes is determined by the polarity of the volatile. Hence, it is challenging to pick a valid theoretical model that correctly predicts transport regardless of the polarity. Here, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) assess which of five different models correctly describe transport of DMSO as polar and n-tetradecane as apolar model compound: (i) a pseudo first-order adsorption model for an irreversible sorption process, (ii) a first-order kinetics model allowing reversible sorption, (iii) a second-order model with a reversible process, and an effective diffusion model accounting for a constant (iv) and for a variable effective diffusivity (v). Each tested model is given as set of partial differential equations (PDE). Considering the model under testing and experimentally obtained spatially and temporally resolved concentration profiles through stacks of paper sheets, PINNs predict concentration of the volatiles and associated material constants such as sorption constants and effective diffusion coefficients by solving the inverse problem. Our PINNs revealed two models, pseudo first-order sorption and second-order reversible sorption, that correctly predict concentration profiles and polarity-driven differences in sorption times. While a PINN-based picking of valid transport models has important implications for the development of effective methods for controlling emission of volatiles from paper materials, PINNs represent a versatile mathematical tool to validate or refute the capability of PDE-based theoretical models to describe experimental data. • PINNs evaluate sorption kinetics in porous materials. • Focus: Transport of organic volatiles in cellulose. • Pseudo first-order model suits organic volatiles. • Predicting transport of volatiles through paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power transformer is an important part of the power grid. The aging of oil-paper insulation is affected by many factors such as temperature and moisture. In order to accurately evaluate the service life of transformer and ensure the stable operation in power system, a method for predicting the lifetime of oil-immersed pressboard under different temperatures and moisture content was proposed. This method is mainly realized by the chemical reaction kinetic equations and transformation factor. Firstly, the effect of temperature and moisture content on the frequency dielectric response of oil-paper insulation was studied by frequency domain dielectric spectroscopy method. The results show that the dielectric loss of oil-immersed pressboard increases with the increase of moisture content and temperature. The activation energy of oil-immersed pressboard also increases exponentially with the increase of moisture content. Then, we analyzed the trend of polymerization degree of insulation pressboard in aging process and calculated the insulation life and the remain lifetime by combining the cellulose degradation kinetic models and translation factor. When the moisture content of the oil-immersed at 70 °C, the life expectancy of oil-paper insulation is about 19.26 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical shakers are active particles with zero propulsion velocity whose activity derives from chemical reactions on portions of their surfaces. Although they do not move, except through Brownian motion, the nonequilibrium concentration and velocity fields that they generate endow them with properties that differ from their equilibrium counterparts. In particular, collections of such shakers can actively move, reorient, and self-assemble into various cluster states, which are the subject of this paper. Elongated chemical shakers constructed from linked catalytic and noncatalytic spheres are considered, and it is shown how hydrodynamic, chemotactic, and shape-dependent interactions give rise to various self-assembled shaker structures. The chemical forces responsible for cluster formation are described in terms of a model based on pair-wise additive contributions. The forms of the self-assembled structures can be varied by changing the chemostat concentrations that control the nonequilibrium state. The resulting structures and their manipulation through chemical means suggest ways to construct a class of active materials for applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient and reliable methods for the generation of bioactive papers are of growing interest in relation to point‐of‐care testing devices that do not require extensive analytical equipment. Herein, we report the immobilization of functional proteins on paper fibers using a modular chemoenzymatic approach. The synthetic strategy relies on a combination of highly efficient spatially controllable photo‐triggered cycloaddition followed by site‐specific sortase A‐catalyzed transamidation. This site‐directed and regiospecific method has allowed unidirectional and covalent immobilization of several proteins displaying different functional properties, with ramifications for application in paper‐based diagnostics. Protein‐functionalized paper: A modular approach to covalent protein immobilization on paper fibers is reported, which relies on a set of highly efficient pericyclic reactions in combination with site‐specific enzymatic coupling. Following initial derivatization of a cellulosic surface (see figure), light‐triggered covalent anchoring of an enzyme recognition site ensures enzyme‐promoted ligation of desired proteins with preservation of their function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nacre-like FG/Al energetic paper was designed and prepared. • A significantly enhanced energy and pressure output are obtained. • FG/Al energetic papers shown self-propagate combustion reaction at micro-scale. • The chemical reaction mechanism was distinctly elucidated. • FG/Al energetic paper displayed high flexibility and strain. Developing functional devices requires energetic materials with comprehensive performance including high energy density, excellent chemical reactivity and mechanical properties. Herein, an effective strategy inspired by nacre-like architecture was employed to construct new fluorographene (FG)/nano-aluminum (Al) energetic paper through a vacuum filtration induced self-assembly process. FG/Al energetic paper showed ultrahigh reactivity and high flexibility owing to combined effect of the nacre-like architecture and interfacial interaction. FG/Al energetic paper exhibited significantly enhanced energy output (3257.7 J/g) and self-propagate combustion reaction with high pressure output at micro-scale. Chemical reaction mechanism was distinctly elucidated based on reactive molecular dynamics simulations and the combustion products of FG/Al energetic paper. More interestingly, FG/Al energetic paper displayed high flexibility and strain (5.39%) reported for the first time. The bio-inspired route provides a promising approach to design advanced energetic materials for applications in transportation, aerospace, and military industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The deposition of chemical reagent inks on paper is a crucial step in the development and fabrication of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs). A pen-plotting approach, delivering chemical ink deposition using technical pens filled with reagents and inserted into a desktop electronic plotter, is shown herein to be a versatile, low-cost, simple, rapid, reproducible, and high-throughput solution. The volume of the deposited ink was quantified gravimetrically, confirming that nanoliter volumes of reagents can be deposited reproducibly (e.g. 7.55 ± 0.37 nL/mm for a plotting speed of 10 cm/s) in detection zones of μPADs, typically spatially defined using wax printing. This approach was further investigated with regard to deposition of reagents in different geometrical forms (circular and linear), so demonstrating its applicability for preparation of μPADs with flexible design and application. By adjusting the plotting speed for linear deposition, lines with a relatively large range of widths (≈628–1192 μm) were created. Circular deposition was also demonstrated via delivery of reagents within wax printed circular fluidic barriers of a range of diameters (inner diameter = 1.5–7 mm). These capabilities were practically demonstrated via the fabrication of μPADs, based upon differing detection principles for determination of aluminum in natural waters using Morin as the fluorescent reagent. Traditional μPADs based on digital image colorimetry (DIC) were produced using circular deposition, whilst distance-based μPADs exploited linear deposition. Both types of μPADs developed using this method showed excellent precision for determination of trace concentrations of aluminium (average RSDs = 3.38% and 6.45%, and LODs = 0.5 ng (0.25 ppm) and 2 ng (0.5 ppm), for traditional and distance-based detection, respectively). Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A pen-plotting technique is characterized for chemical ink deposition on μPADs. • A gravimetric approach is introduced to measure the deposition volume. • Deposition is studied for different geometrical forms (circular and linear). • The effect of plotting parameters on deposition is investigated. • The approach is demonstrated by a fluorescence-based determination of Al in waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a new, simplified approach for performing quantitative colorimetric assays on paper-based analytical devices that uses calibrant-loaded paper devices to perform external calibration and standard addition calibration using one calibration point. Calibrant-loaded devices consist of sensing areas pre-loaded with a colored product which is produced from the reaction of a standard solution of the analyte with the appropriate colorimetric reagents. When the sample is added into the calibrant-loaded sensing zone the analytical signal (i.e. color intensity) increases proportionally to the concentration of the analyte in the tested sample. The total measured signal corresponds to the sum of the concentration of the analyte in the sample and the standard solution pre-stored in the device and is used to calculate the concentration of the analyte in the sample based on the principles of linear calibration. The applicability of this approach was benchmarked in three colorimetric assays (i.e., for the determination of iron, nickel, and amino acids) that use different reaction chemistries. This work demonstrates a simplified calibration-free approach for assays performed on paper-based analytical devices that requires minimum experimental and computational effort, it can be used for either external or standard addition calibration and can be used to identify and eliminate the presence of interferences in a sample. Image 1 • A new and simplified approach for quantitative assays on paper devices is described. • Single-point calibration and standard addition on paper devices is demonstrated. • The method can be used to identify the presence of interferences in the sample. • The method produces rapid results with minimum user effort and technical resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulp and paper industry has generated a higher contamination burden of the final mill wastewater which must be further treated to comply with the standards imposed by the legislation requirement. In this study, the removal efficiencies for chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color from pulp and paper wastewater using sequencing batch reactor (SBR) in combination with advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) at a bench scale were investigated. Response surface methodology (RSM) based on a three-variable-three-level central composite design (CCD) was employed to optimize the SBR process. At the optimal conditions of initial COD of 1000 mg/L, MLSS of 3000 mg/L and cycle time of 24 h, 74.8% COD, 58.3% of color removal and 80 mL/g of SVI were obtained in the pretreatment stage. The use of Fenton oxidation as post-treatment enhanced COD reduction and color removal. A percentage of 92.1% COD reduction and 90.3% of color removal was achieved in dosages of 3 mM Fe2+ and 9 mM H2O2 at pH of 3.0 for a reaction time of 30 min, while a total of 98% reduction of COD and 94% removal of color for the combined treatment was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid on-site detection of organophosphate compounds such as nerve agents and pesticides is essential due to their lethal effect, which irreversibly inhibits the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). In this study, we demonstrate a foldable paper-based analytical device (PAD) that is capable of detecting an AChE inhibitor in a semiquantitative manner. An angle-based readout of the yellow area in the ring-type paper channel was used for the semiquantitative analysis with the naked eye. The color of the paper channel was changed to yellow as a result of oxidized cerium oxide nanoparticles by hydrogen peroxide produced from the enzymatic reactions. All reagents required for enzyme reactions were preadsorbed on the pop-up card shaped PAD to minimize the manual steps for dealing with multiple reagents for sequential enzyme reactions. As a proof of concept, we were able to semiquantitatively analyze a nerve agent simulant called dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), one of the AChE inhibitors, by simply reading the angle of the yellow area in the paper channel. The foldable PAD proposed here would serve as a valuable tool that allows unskilled people to semiquantitatively detect AChE inhibitors in the field, including nerve agents and organophosphate pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A distance-based paper analytical device (dPAD) for loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) detection based on distance measurement was proposed. This approach relied on visual detection by the length of colour developed on the dPAD with reference to semi-quantitative determination of the initial amount of genomic DNA. In this communication, E. coli DNA was chosen as a template DNA for LAMP reaction. In accordance with the principle, the dPAD was immobilized by polyethylenimine (PEI), which is a strong cationic polymer, in the hydrophilic channel of the paper device. Hydroxynaphthol blue (HNB), a colourimetric indicator for monitoring the change of magnesium ion concentration in the LAMP reaction, was used to react with the immobilized PEI. The positive charges of PEI react with the negative charges of free HNB in the LAMP reaction, producing a blue colour deposit on the paper device. Consequently, the apparently visual distance appeared within 5 min and length of distance correlated to the amount of DNA in the sample. The distance-based PAD for the visual detection of the LAMP reaction could quantify the initial concentration of genomic DNA as low as 4.14 × 10 3 copies µL −1 . This distance-based visual semi-quantitative platform is suitable for choice of LAMP detection method, particular in resource-limited settings because of the advantages of low cost, simple fabrication and operation, disposability and portable detection of the dPAD device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activation energy is popularly used for the estimation of remaining life of transformer insulation. It is defined as the average rate of all reactions that happen with cellulose. Existing literature shows that the activation energy of oil–paper insulation can be obtained from polarization depolarization current (PDC) and return voltage measurement (RVM) data that are measured at a specific temperature. It is practically difficult to ensure the same measurement temperature for both PDC and RVM data. On the other hand, PDC data and its analysis get influenced by de-trapping current. This de-trapping current is generated by ionic charge carriers that get freed from trap sites during PDC measurement process. Formation of these trap sites is related to physical, chemical reactions that happen at oil–paper interface. This paper proposes a methodology which uses de-trapped charge, dislodged from deep and shallow traps, to assess insulation condition and for the prediction of activation energy. Thus, eliminating the need of RVM data. The proposed method is tested using data collected from various real-life in-service transformers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Food contact materials (FCM) may contain non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) as a result of reaction by-products, oligomers, degradation processes, chemical reactions between packaging materials and foodstuff, or as impurities from the raw materials used for their production. Scope and approach In this review, current approaches for the detection and identification of NIAS from paper and board FCM are presented. Reviewed are the definition of NIAS, approaches for NIAS identification and quantification, the comprehensive analysis of NIAS and the role of in silico tools and bioassays. Key Findings and Conclusions NIAS in paper and board are mostly components from printing inks, adhesives, sizing agents and surface coatings. Recycled paper contains overall more NIAS than fresh paper. Targeted analysis is generally performed for predicted NIAS, whereas an untargeted, or full-scan screening method is applied to detect and identify unpredicted NIAS. Sample preparation and contact conditions fall in two categories; migration and extraction. Migration studies are performed with food simulants while extraction studies are Soxhlet or ultrasound assisted solvent extraction. In untargeted analysis in silico tools are gaining importance in the identification of NIAS. Bioassays are used to determine the bioactivity of extracts or fractions in order to assess the potential toxicity of NIAS present in the mixture. A combination of bioassays and chemical analysis is used to direct the identification of unknown bioactive NIAS in complex mixtures like those from paper and board FCM. However, future research is required into the selection of bioassays since these should not only be sensitive enough for detecting all compounds of concern but should also have a relevance with human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Paper spray (PS) has been developed as a method of choice for point‐of‐care analysis in many real cases, where its applications can be further expanded with delicate high‐throughput design. To achieve this goal, we developed a new PS regime, with the assembly of an induced high voltage into the ion source. Compared with regular DC high voltage, the newly developed setup is capable of high‐throughput, simple configuration and rapid switching between individual papers without complicated electric/mechanic design. Methods: A device of high‐throughput induced PS (IPS) was designed by using a two‐dimensional (2D) rotating platform equipped with a circular glass plate. The paper substrate was placed on the circular glass plate and separated from the electrode. The method avoids physical contact between the electrode and the sample. Charged droplets were generated at the paper tip once an induced high voltage was applied to a wet paper. Results: A relatively rapid analytical speed of 2.6 s per sample was achieved via IPS‐MS. Rapid quantification of amitriptyline (AMT) in complicated matrices was obtained within 1 min using an isotope internal standard method. Limits of detection for AMt in urine, FBS and blood were calculated to be 1.04, 0.84 and 1.33 ng/mL, respectively. In addition, high‐throughput IPS‐MS can be used for chemical reaction monitoring. Conclusions: We have demonstrated the versatility of high‐throughput IPS‐MS in ambient ionization, which successfully simplified the experimental installation and facilitated the experimental operation. Therefore, we believe that high‐throughput IPS‐MS analysis will be widely used for discovering drugs and screening reactions, and the present design has the potential for applications in paper chip‐MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, fast, low-cost, portable, and eco-friendly method using a spot test on a paper platform, together with diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, was developed and validated for the quantification of aluminum hydrochloride, a potential neurotoxic agent, in antiperspirant samples. The determination of aluminum hydrochloride was performed at a wavelength of 615 nm, by measuring consumption of the purple colorimetric reagent Alizarin S, due to reaction with aluminum. The linear range was from 10.0 to 125.0 mg L −1 and could be described by the equation: A R  = 0.4479 − 0.002543 C Al (R = 0.999). The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 3.06 and 10.2 mg L −1 , respectively. The method was specific, accurate, and repeatable, with relative standard deviation (RSD) <5.0%. The recovery was between 92.2 and 103.4%. The method was successfully used for the determination of aluminum hydrochloride in commercial antiperspirant samples, revealing concentrations below the maximum permitted by current legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an innovative mathematical model of solid fuel gasification, which is not described in the available literature. The calculation of the components of the heterogeneous phase (including both solid and gaseous phases) as well as the calculation of the homogeneous phase (only gaseous components) is based on the balance of the total amounts of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen entering the reactor space. Additionally, this paper introduces a new method for calculating the composition of the gaseous phase, based on reducing the heterogeneous mixture (composed of solid and gaseous phases) to a homogeneous gaseous phase. This approach to calculating the gaseous phase composition in the solid fuel gasification process has not been found by the authors in the cited literature. This paper also presents a model for calculating the heterogeneous and gaseous phases using the number of moles that participate in the assumed chemical reactions of the solid fuel gasification process. This approach to calculating the composition of the heterogeneous and gaseous phases of the solid fuel gasification process is also not represented in the cited literature. For comparison with the literature data, municipal solid waste (MSW) and cashew nut shell (Cashew Shell Char (CNSC)) were used as fuels in the calculation of gasification composition. The results of the calculation of the gaseous phase composition using the model presented in the paper show good agreement with the data from the literature. The calculation of the composition of the heterogeneous mixture during the steam gasification of MSW (α = 0.4) shows the presence of a solid phase (carbon) up to approximately 735 °C. At that temperature, the synthetic gas contains only gaseous components: CO = 33.10%, H2 = 52.70%, CH4 = 2.54%, CO2 = 4.97, H2O = 5.93% and N2 = 0.76%. Increasing the temperature above 735 °C eliminates the solid phase from the equilibrium mixture. The literature data on solid fuel gasification generally do not consider the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the equilibrium mixture. To satisfy the material balance at the input and output of the gasification reactor, it is necessary to determine the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the equilibrium mixture. Since the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the heterogeneous equilibrium mixture can only be determined through measurement, the development and application of a mathematical model in engineering practice is of great importance, so this developed model can be considered a useful tool for simulating the influence of process parameters on gas characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred years ago, Robert Feulgen published a landmark paper in which he described the first method to stain DNA in cells and tissues. Although a century has passed since the discovery by Feulgen and Rossenbeck, the chemical reaction still exerts an important influence in current histochemical studies. Its contribution in diverse fields, spanning from biomedicine to plant biology, has paved the way for the most significant studies that constitute our current knowledge. The possibility to specifically explore the DNA in cell nuclei while quantifying its content makes it a contemporary and timeless method. Indeed, many histocytochemical studies following the 1924 paper have led to a deep understanding of genome organization in general as well as several specific mechanisms (e.g. DNA duplication or tumour pathology) that, nowadays, constitute some of the most fundamental pillars in biological investigations. In this review, we discuss the chemistry and application of the Feulgen reaction to both light and electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to study the suitability of a selection of 3D printing liquid photopolymer resins for their application in the cultural heritage context. Design/methodology/approach: The main concerns regarding the conservation and restoration of cultural assets are the chemical composition and long-term behavior of the new materials that will be in contact with the original object. Because of this, four different LED curing resins were exposed to an accelerated aging procedure and tested to identify the materials which demonstrated a better result. Some specific properties of the material (color, glossiness, pH and volatile organic compound emissions) were measured before and after the exposure. Findings: Some of the properties measured reported good results demonstrating a decent stability against the selected aging conditions. The main changes were produced in the colorimetric aspect, probably indicating other chemical reactions in the material. Likewise, a case study could be also executed to demonstrate the usefulness of these materials in the cultural field. Research limitations/implications: It is necessary to study in more detail the long-lasting behavior of the materials employed with these technologies. Further analysis should be carried out highlighting the chemical composition and degradation process of the materials proposed. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the introduction of curing 3D printing resins in the restoration methodologies of cultural assets. For this, the study of a selection of properties represents the first stage to suggest or reject their use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paper-structured catalyst (PSC) for biogas reforming was prepared with the aim of improving coking tolerance. During the paper-making process using inorganic fibers, Ni-loaded (Ce,Zr)O 2–δ particles were synthesized via co-precipitation and subsequent chemical reduction (on-paper synthesis). The effects of the CeO 2 /ZrO 2 weight ratio during preparation and the Ni loading amount on the catalytic activity for dry reforming of CH 4 were investigated at 750 °C. A Ni loading of 6 wt% with CeO 2 /ZrO 2 ≥ 1 led to stable CH 4 conversion of 85% without coking under a gas hourly space velocity of 3800 h −1 . The oxygen storage capacity of the (Ce,Zr)O 2–δ particles dispersed in the inorganic fiber network may contribute to the oxidation of carbonaceous species deposited on the catalyst surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-resistance paper was manufactured by laccase-grafting of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and chitosan (CPX) on Kraft pulp fiber. The reaction was mediated in the presence of laccase by one of the following polyphenols in the presence of air: gallic acid (GA), vanillic acid (VA) and catechol (1,2-DHB). Enzyme was added at constant loading (24 kg ton-1), 1% pulp consistency, 0.005% CMC, pH = 6.3 ± 0.5 and 2 mM of mediator. CPX content was assessed at two levels (0% and 0.005%). Treated pulps were analyzed by different mechanical tests (ring crush, mullen, corrugating medium test (CMT) flat crush of corrugating medium test and tension). An improvement in these parameters was obtained by biopolymer coupling and selected mediator. When using GA, three parameters increased more than 40%, while ring crush increased 120%. For the case of VA, properties were enhanced from 74% to 88% when CPX was added. For 1,2-DHB, there was not found a statistically significant difference between the results in the presence of CPX. Scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, FTIR and 13C NMR were used in all papers in order to evaluate grafting. Hence, it was possible to correlate polymerization with an improvement of paper's mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon paper (CP) used for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are improved using carboxyl-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile (CTBN)-modified phenolic resin (PF) for impregnation of CP preform. The effect of CTBN ratio on the properties of CP, which is fabricated by the processes of impregnation, molding and heat treatment, is investigated. The results show that compared with the CP without CTBN addition, the CTBN-modified CP exhibits significantly improved overall properties. With the increase of CTBN ratio in the mixture, porosity and permeability of the modified CP increase because of the low carbon yield of CTBN after heat treatment. Mechanical strength and conductivity also increase because of the chemical reactions between the CTBN and resin that lead to robust interfacial bonding in the CP product. However, excessive CTBN addition causes decreased tensile and bending strength of the CP. Single cell tests show that the increased conductivity of the CP enhances the polarization performance in the Ohm polarization region, while the CTBN-induced nearly spherical micro/macro-pores in the CP matrix improve the performance in the concentration polarization region. At an optimum CTBN ratio of 50 wt%, the membrane electrode assemble with the modified CP exhibits a current density of 1606.5 mA cm −2 at 0.608 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the scarcity of natural resources, the option for the recovery of industrial waste for new processes has increased over the last years. However, seeking natural raw materials, some industrials do not perform treatment or separation of some of its components from waste to be reused. This research focuses on the characterization and purification of waste from the industrial pulping of white paper shavings, obtaining kaolin and CaCl 2 . The waste was subjected to heat treatment at 400 °C to burn the cellulose. To separate the CaCO 3 of kaolin, a hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution was used to purify the materials, converting CaCO 3 into CaCl 2 and water in a chemical reaction. To find the best HCl ratios, tests were carried out at three different concentrations: 1.5, 1.8, 2.1 M. Residual water was evaporated to recover the CaCl 2 , and the resulting kaolin from pulp was oven-dried and turned into metakaolin. The analysis performed for the characterization of the materials were: X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) before and after treatment of the material; X-ray Diffraction (XRD); Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used on the surface structure, morphology and shape studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was planned to clarify the relationship between natural ageing and accelerated ageing of paper using naturally aged paper. First, samples of paper which had deteriorated over time for 130 to 80 years were artificially aged at 80°C, 65% RH, and their physical and chemical changes were investigated. Oxalic acid contained in the samples before accelerated ageing increased, while glycolic acid showed a tendency to decrease. This means that accelerated ageing test did not simulate the chemical processes occurring during natural ageing in a straight forward manner. On the other hand, paper in which many organic acids had accumulated by natural ageing showed larger degradation rate indicators of tear index and burst index i.e. initial degradation rate constant divided by initial tear index or initial burst index before accelerated ageing and discolouration rate. That of values of the degradation rate indicators of tear index and burst index and the discolouration rate showed good correlation with the number of cellulose chain breaks. However, the number of cellulose chain breaks is not simply correlated with the concentration of hydrogen ion which is an index of the acidic hydrolysis of paper. Oxidation contributes to the rate of cellulose chain breaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A potentially universal approach is presented for enzyme attachment to cellulose that significantly enhances enzyme stability while retaining high activity, and involves no chemical functionalization of cellulose. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was interlocked in cellulose to form a protein‐friendly surface (named BSA‐Paper), while also providing COOH and NH2 groups for subsequent attachment of enzymes. The desired enzyme is then mixed with additional BSA and interlocked on BSA‐Paper. The second BSA layer dilutes and crosslinks the enzyme for improved stability. Laccase was tested as a model enzyme for interlocking on BSA‐Paper, and was found to retain over 100 % activity and was 240 times more stable at 25 °C (half life=180 d) than laccase. This new approach was also tested with a few other enzymes with encouraging results, thus providing a potentially universal method for stabilization of enzymes on cellulose with retention of high activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of porewater chemistry in low-permeability, clay-rich rocks provides insights into solute transport mechanisms and the origin and residence time of porewater. Extraction of porewater for chemical quantification is challenging, and several methods have been applied including squeezing, advective displacement, crush and leach, and a relatively new technique that extracts porewater by absorption into a cellulosic paper by capillary action. Here we compare porewater Cl− and Br− mass ratios from samples using the paper-absorption and crush-and-leach techniques. Samples were obtained from Upper Ordovician shales in the Michigan Basin in Ontario, the Opalinus Clay at the Mont Terri Rock Laboratory in Switzerland, and the Upper Ordovician Lorraine Group shale in southern Quebec. The data display consistent and reproducible differences among methods for Cl− and Br− mass ratios, with the paper-absorption method producing systematically lower Cl− : Br− ratios. The observed differences in Cl− : Br− ratios are attributed primarily to anion exclusion effects which are stronger for Br− than for Cl−, resulting in higher Br− concentrations in the largest pores that are preferentially sampled by the paper-absorption technique. In addition, calculations suggest that Cl− is more effective than Br− in forming ion pairs and clusters with neutral or positive charge which can enter the diffuse double layer. This causes a further decrease in the Cl− : Br− ratios for the mobile water. One important message from this work is that different extraction methods should not be expected to converge on a unique porewater Cl− : Br− ratio because each method reflects different proportions of the interlayer, diffuse double layer, and mobile fractions of porewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyocyanin is a toxin produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Here we describe a novel paper-based electrochemical sensor for pyocyanin detection, manufactured with a simple and inexpensive approach based on electrode printing on paper. The resulting sensors constitute an effective electrochemical method to quantify pyocyanin in bacterial cultures without the conventional time consuming pretreatment of the samples. The electrochemical properties of the paper-based sensors were evaluated by ferri/ferrocyanide as a redox mediator, and showed reliable sensing performance. The paper-based sensors readily allow for the determination of pyocyanin in bacterial cultures with high reproducibility, achieving a limit of detection of 95 nM and a sensitivity of 4.30 μA/μM in standard culture media. Compared to the similar commercial ceramic based sensors, it is a 2.3-fold enhanced performance. The simple in-house fabrication of sensors for pyocyanin quantification allows researchers to understand in vitro adaptation of P. aeruginosa infections via rapid screenings of bacterial cultures that otherwise are expensive and time-consuming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the multiple potential health risks caused by exposure to BPA and the strengthened regulation of BPA-containing thermal papers, much concern has been raised recently regarding a BPA-type color developer in thermal papers. However, few efforts have so far been focused on the development of safer alternative materials to BPA. In this study, we examined the use of polymeric materials as a safer replacement for BPA in thermal papers. For this objective, a series of phenolic polymers, phenol-formaldehyde novolac and resole (PF-N and PF-R) and BPA-formaldehyde novolac and resole (BPAF-N and BPAF-R), were prepared. Among these polymers, a BPAF-N-type polymer was determined to be the most appropriate candidate for a developer material in thermal papers. Through printing tests of the prepared thermal papers, it was found that BPAF-N_8 polymer has a high static sensitivity and dark contrast of thermal papers similar to those of BPA, whereas the BPAF-N_16 and BPAF-N_30 polymers have lower static sensitivities than BPFA-N_8 and BPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies suggest that reactions in aqueous microcompartments can occur at significantly different rates than those in the bulk. Most studies have used electrospray to generate a polydisperse source o f highly charged microdroplets, leading to multiple confounding factors potentially influencing reaction rates (e.g., evaporation, charge, and size). Thus, the underlying mechanism for the observed enhancement remains unclear. We present a new type of electrodynamic balance— the branched quadrupole trap (BQT)—which can be used to study reactions in microdroplets in a controlled environment. The BQT allows for condensed phase chemical reactions to be initiated by colliding droplets with different reactants and levitating the merged droplet indefinitely. The performance of the BQT is characterized in several ways. Sub-millisecond mixing times as fast as ~400 μs are measured for low velocity (~0.1 m /s) collisions of droplets with <40 μm diameters. The reaction of o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) with alanine in the presence of dithiolthreitol is measured using both fluorescence spectroscopy and single droplet paper spray mass spectrometry. The bimolecular rate constant for reaction of alanine with OPA is found to be 84 ± 10 and 67 ± 6 M-1 s-1 in a 30 μm radius droplet and bulk solution, respectively, which demonstrates that bimolecular reaction rate coefficients can be quantified using merged microdroplets and that merged droplets can be used to study rate enhancements due to compartmentalization. Products of the reaction of OPA with alanine are detected in single droplets using paper spray mass spectrometry. We demonstrate that single droplets with <100 pg of analyte can easily be studied using single droplet mass spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the effectiveness of deacidification of lignocellulosic and cellulosic paper samples with dispersions of Ca(OH)2 and Mg (OH)2 nanoparticles in alcohols as a preventive conservation technique. Using an accelerated thermal ageing test, it was found that deacidification dispersion is not advisable as a preventive conservation technique of unaged paper sheets since the pH was kept at very high levels and there was a substantial decrease in the degree of polymerization (DP) of the cellulose. It concludes that the protective effects of deacidification with nanoparticles could only be achieved with preaged paper samples.

The article presents several patents related to paper deacidification, the most common and widely used process of paper conservation. The early years of paper making tends to be more acidic, and preserving proves to be a big challenge for the early conservator. The search for remedies to deacidify the paper begun as early as 19th century and the first patent dates for paper deacidification started on 1936. Environment friendly processes of paper making begun on the early 1990.

Abstract: Lime mud (LM), a solid waste that results from the causticization reaction in alkali recycling process of paper manufacture industry, was utilized as CO2 sorbent in calcium looping process in this study. The carbonation behavior of LM in the calcination/carbonation cycles was investigated in a dual fixed-bed reactor and a thermo-gravimetric analyzer. The results show that the carbonation conversions of LM are lower than those of limestone at the same reaction conditions. It attributes to the high chlorine content in LM which leads to more pronounced sintering and decreases the CO2 capture performance of LM. A pre-wash process was employed to decrease the chlorine content in LM. Based on an overall consideration of various factors, the pre-wash process is effective enough if the Cl/Ca molar ratio in LM is smaller than 1:100. Pre-washed lime mud (PLM) achieves higher carbonation rates and carbonation conversions, compared with LM. When calcined at 850°C and carbonated at 700°C, the carbonation conversion of PLM maintains at 36% after 100cycles, which is 1.8 and 4.8 times as high as LM and limestone after the same number of cycles, respectively. The pore volume and surface area of calcined PLM were greater than those of calcined LM after the same number of cycles, especially the volume of the pores in the range of 10–100nm in diameter. That is the reason why PLM exhibits higher CO2 capture capacity than LM in the multiple calcination/carbonation cycles. The carbonation conversions of LM and PLM are further enhanced by hydration of their calcines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report a method for fabricating inexpensive microfluidic platforms on paper using laser treatment. Any paper with a hydrophobic surface coating (e.g., parchment paper, wax paper, palette paper) can be used for this purpose. We were able to selectively modify the surface structure and property (hydrophobic to hydrophilic) of several such papers using a CO2laser. We created patterns down to a minimum feature size of 62 ± 1 µm. The modified surface exhibited a highly porous structure which helped to trap/localize chemical and biological aqueous reagents for analysis. The treated surfaces were stable over time and were used to self-assemble arrays of aqueous droplets. Furthermore, we selectively deposited silica microparticles on patterned areas to allow lateral diffusion from one end of a channel to the other. Finally, we demonstrated the applicability of this platform to perform chemical reactions using luminol-based hemoglobin detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article compares the effectiveness of three washing methods in removing acid compounds from aged papers. The three washing methods include immersion washing, blotter washing and suction table washing with the aid of ultrasonic mist. In samples of thin and porous papers, it was found that immersion washing was the most effective followed by the suction table washing with the aid of ultrasonic mist. However, suction table washing was ineffective for the treatment of thick and dense papers while blotter washing showed the lowest effectiveness in removing organic acids particularly oxalic acid. It is noted that the suction table washing with ultrasonic mist uses the least amount of water.

The article presents an experimental study on the deacidification of paper using sodium and calcium ions. The role of acidity in the degradation of paper materials is widely acknowledged since its beginning in 1930. Deacidification is the process of removing the acid from the paper to avoid degradation and for conservation purpose employing the most common deacidifying aqueous solutions called calcium bicarbonate. The process gives different output depending on the acid use in deacidifying.

Abstract: Plasma polymerized fluorocarbon films have been deposited on paper and regenerated cellulose surfaces to enhance their barrier properties and to achieve hydrophobic surfaces. The primary monomers used for plasma polymerization were pentafluoroethane (CF3CHF2) and octafluorocyclobutane (C4F8). The equilibrium moisture uptake of films deposited from either precursor was less than 0.14 wt.%. Although water vapor uptake of the fluorocarbon films is low, moisture diffusivity through the films is high; that is, moisture penetrates the films but is not chemically bonded. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) studies demonstrate that the absorption of water vapor is a bulk phenomenon in which the moisture penetrates into the film. Transient moisture absorption studies were conducted using the QCM to evaluate the rate of moisture uptake and diffusivity. Although the films allow water vapor diffusion, the films are hydrophobic and are not “wetted” when liquid water contacts these layers. Contact angle studies reveal that a minimum fluorocarbon film thickness of about 70 nm on paper is required to completely cover surface and near-surface fibers, thereby providing the paper with long term hydrophobic character. The films also impart the paper with an improved barrier to lipophilic material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The high cost of regular diagnostic kits severely impeded its uses for routine clinical assay and fieldworks. A cost-effective chromatography paper is chemically modified with Ag nanostructures using the simple electroless silver deposition, producing a scalable and disposable substrate for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, as well as a large scale of catalytic active sites over many chemical reactions. Synergetic measurement including surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry is performed on Ag decorated filter paper using a thiol containing compound as indicator, allowing for the acquisition of spatially correlated spectroscopy in the tandem mode. In addition, hydrophilic porous cellulose network that contains a certain amount of liquid naturally served as a chemical reactor for molecular transport and reaction. Positive results from catalytic reaction on metallized paper convincingly demonstrated that total microanalysis system on paper (μ-TASoP), as a compelling alternative would find a wide breadth of applications in developing disposable medical devices and customary laboratory assays. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New chemicals, based on the synergistic effect between inorganic polyaluminium salts and organic cationic polyelectrolytes, have been tested for the chemical optimization of a dissolved air flotation (DAF) unit, used as internal treatment of process waters in a paper mill based on 100% recovered paper. Laboratory tests have demonstrated that polyamine modifications of the aluminum salts are the most efficient in the removal of contaminants, the combination of a polyaluminium nitrate sulfate salt and a polyamine being the most efficient. This chemical has been studied under different conditions, such as different dosages or in combination with a flocculant for the treatment of waters from different paper grades production, and the results have demonstrated a good performance at laboratory scale. Therefore, a field trial has been recommended for assessing its potential benefits at mill scale, which will be described in a future paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some errors exist in the above paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spray method is proposed to improve the catalytic properties of ceramic papers to be used as catalytic filters for removing diesel soot particles. Small particles of Ce and Co oxides, acting as active centers for the combustion of the soot retained by the filter, are efficiently and homogeneously deposited. On the contrary, the application of the conventional drip method results in bigger particles mainly agglomerated at the crossings between the fibers of the ceramic paper. As a result, catalytic papers prepared by the spray method exhibit much higher performance with soot combustion temperatures decreased by ~ 30 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports on the development of a pressure-affected based headspace (HS) analytical technique for the determination of calcium carbonate content in paper samples. By the acidification, the carbonate in the sample was converted to CO 2 and released into the headspace of a closed vial and then measured by gas chromatography (GC). When the amount of carbonate in the sample is significant, the pressure created by the CO 2 affects the accuracy of the method. However, the pressure also causes a change in the O 2 signal in the HS-GC measurement, which is a change that can be used as an indirect measure of the carbonate in the sample. The results show that the present method has a good precision (the relative standard deviation < 2.32%), and good accuracy (the relative differences compared to a reference method was < 5.76%). Coupled with the fact that the method is simple, rapid, and accurate, it is suitable for a variety of applications that call for the analysis of high carbonate content in paper samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oil-impregnated paper, which is the major section in converter transformer, plays a considerable role in the reliability and safety of power grid. However, the insulation degradation will be accelerated by the accumulation of charges that are on the surface of oil-impregnated paper. Therefore, the operating overvoltage occurs and irremediable damage will appear. Direct fluorination is an effective method of modifying the chemical components of polymer matrix so as to have effects on the surface characteristic of the insulating material without reforming the bulk properties. In this research, for studying effects of fluorination on charge behavior on the surface of oil-impregnated paper under the application of DC and impulse voltage, the F2/N2 compound, which the volume fraction for the F2 gas occupied 10 % and the pressure was 0.05 MPa in a reaction kettle for 5, 30 and 60 min respectively, was applied. Meanwhile, the chemical bond groups and the surface morphology of the fluorinated specimen were tested. Besides, the DC voltage amplitude was 4 kV and the applied time was 4 min. The impulse frequency was 500 Hz and the impulse voltage amplitude was 1, 2, 3 and 4 kV, respectively. The charge properties under various situations were investigated. From the research under the application of different fluorination time, impulse voltage amplitudes and polarities, conclusions can be drawn that, fluorination has significant effects on the chemical structure properties and surface characteristic of oil-impregnated paper. Furthermore, the initial potential can be reduced and the decay process of surface charge can be accelerated with different fluorination time increasing from 0 to 30 min. Nevertheless, the tendency is the opposite when the fluorination time continuously extends from 30 to 60 min. The trap distribution also exhibits alternation through the fluorination. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Agro-wastes valorization focusses on production of high value-added products, such as cellulose nanofibers (CNF), and contributes to reduce the environmental impact of these residues. CNF have been used successfully as papermaking additives and some previsions maintain that this sector will become the most important, demanding CNF at a reasonable cost. Furthermore, the optimization of the production process of CNF from agricultural residues would contribute to the goals of a circular economy, the development of rural areas and the costs reduction by producing CNF of the minimum quality fit-for-use in recycled paper. In this study, CNF was produced from two agricultural residues; corn (C-CNF) and rape (R-CNF) stalk pulps, pretreated with bleaching, refining and TEMPO-mediated oxidation. Coagulant and cationic polyacrylamide (dual system) and chitosan were the retention systems. Results show the difficulty of predicting the effect of CNF based on their properties, as fibrillation degree or anionic charge, on the improvement of mechanical properties of recycled paper. That is proved by the low differences in tensile index (TI) improvement (∼15% by adding 0.5% C-CNF combined with dual system), obtained with CNF with very different properties. The expensive TEMPO pretreatment could be avoid by applying bleaching pretreatment to the corn pulp, increasing the TI up to 15% without affecting drainage and decoupling the simultaneous deterioration of drainage with TI improvement (drainage time decreased nearly 50% and 20% adding bleached R-CNF and C-CNF, respectively, combined with chitosan). Similar improvements on TI can be achieved by replacing the dual retention system by chitosan without addition of CNF, but the combination of CNF and chitosan allows achieving the highest TI values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chemical principles are used to direct the preservation and conservation of paper cultural relics. • The mechanisms of acidic, alkaline and oxidative degradation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin in paper are summarized. • The intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting the degradation process of paper are addressed. • The advantages and disadvantages of remedial and preventive conservation methods for paper relics are discussed. Paper cultural relics, with the great historic and artistic value, experience aging and degradation during their long-term preservation. The degradation of paper involves various chemical reactions with complicated mechanisms due to the multiple components of paper itself and the complex factors that promote paper aging process. Therefore, it is of great importance to deeply understand the chemical essence and scientific principle of paper degradation, so as to propose the effective conservation methods for paper relics. This review summarized the chemical mechanisms of acidic, alkaline and oxidative degradation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin in paper, and discussed the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that affect paper degradation systematically. Moreover, the interaction among the three types of degradation routes was analyzed for the first time, and the evolution of kinetic models for paper degradation was introduced to evaluate the durability and expected lifetime of paper. On this basis, the advantages and disadvantages of remedial and preventive conservation methods for paper relics are summarized, and the fundamental scientific principles was prospected to guide the further development of paper conservation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]