Search

The presence of pharmaceuticals or their active metabolites in receiving waters is a sign of the inefficient removal of bioactive substrates from wastewater. Adsorption seems to be the most effective and inexpensive method of their removal. Waste management aimed at sorbents is a promising way to sustain several sustainable development goals. In the presented paper, the removal of the two most widely used drugs in the wastewater was examined. Diclofenac and carbamazepine were removed from water and wastewater using textile waste-derived sorbents. Their removal efficiency was verified by testing several process parameters such as the time of the sorption, the presence of interfering inorganic ions, the presence of dissolved organic matter, the initial pH and ionic strength of the solution, and various water matrices. The adsorption capacity was noted for diclofenac (57.1 mg/g) and carbamazepine (21.25 mg/g). The tested process parameters (pH, presence of inorganic ions, dissolved organic matter, ionic strength, water matrix) confirmed that the presented waste materials possessed a great potential for pharmaceutical removal from water matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From their foundational role in electronics to their pivotal contributions in the structural domain, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exemplify a revolutionary nanomaterial with broad applications. The chemical inertness of the CNT surface is a primary limitation that restricts the full utilization of CNTs for mass use in several applications. Herein, works performed on the development of surface‐modified CNTs known as periodically patterned structures are focused. Different structures including shish kebab, nanofiber, nanoflower, and cheetah skin CNT have been studied. Periodic patterning on CNTs offers a chance to improve the nanotube's surface properties and roughness, facilitating better interaction with a matrix. Additionally, the fully controllable processing procedure opens significant opportunities for additional modification and attachment of phases onto specific areas of periodically patterned CNTs. The periodic patterning aspect holds promise for the mass production of surface‐modified CNTs, enhancing their surface multifunctionality. This advancement has the potential to cater to a diverse array of applications, offering improved surface functionality in a mass‐production setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel approach to plastic waste management and energy recovery by synthesizing highly porous activated carbon from an often-overlooked resource, waste cotton fabric (WCF), using H 3 PO 4 as an activating agent. The synthesized waste cotton fabric activated carbon samples (WCF-AC) were utilized as a solid acid catalyst in the catalytic pyrolysis of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), with the aim of converting LDPE into fuel-range hydrocarbons. This research highlights the potential of bio-based waste materials in the synthesis of eco-friendly and cost-effective catalysts for feedstock recycling. The impact of the H 3 PO 4 impregnation ratio and the carbonization/activation temperature on the physicochemical properties of the resulting WCF-AC samples was investigated, providing valuable insights into the optimization of activated carbon production. The catalytic activity of the synthesized WCF-AC samples was evaluated, demonstrating a reduction of 12°C in the LDPE degradation temperature. Furthermore, this work revealed a substantial increase in the formation of carbocyclic compounds, with light aromatics such as benzene, toluene, and xylene constituting up to 43 % of the pyrolysis output. In certain instances, a decrease in heavier hydrocarbons beyond C 11 was observed, indicating the selective yield of specific range hydrocarbons. This study underscores the potential of bio-based acid catalysts, such as the synthesized activated carbon presented here, in plastic recycling. The approach adopted in this research aligns with the principles of the circular economy, promoting resource efficiency and sustainability. [Display omitted] • The chemical activation method is used to produce activated carbon from waste cotton. • Temperature & H3PO4 impact on activated carbon product. • Activated carbons showed the ability to decrease the LDPE degradation temperature. • Samples with higher levels of surface phosphorus bonds yielded aromatic hydrocarbons. • Bio-based activated carbon shows promise as acid catalyst for LDPE recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Biochar utilization for adsorption seems to be the most cost-effective, easy/fast approach for pollutants removal from water and wastewater. Due to the high adsorption properties, magnetic biochar proved to be efficient in the sorption of heavy metals and nutrients. Although there are several studies on development of magnetic biochars, there is a lack of research on development of high-performance magnetic biochar from food waste for removal applications. This study aimed at preparing new classes of magnetic biochar derived from tea waste (TBC) for removal of heavy metals (Ni2+, Co2+), and nutrients (NH 4 + and PO 4 3−) from water and effective fertilizer (source of NH 4 + and PO 4 3−). Standard carbonization process and ultrafast microwave have been used for fabrication of TBCs. The removal of nickel, cobalt as the representatives of heavy metals, and over-enriched nutrients (NH 4 + and PO 4 3−) from water were tested and the removal kinetics, mechanism, and the effect of pH, dissolved organic matter and ionic strength were studied. Simultaneously, possible fertilizing effect of TBC for controlled release of nutrients (NH 4 + and PO 4 3−) in soil was investigated. Up to 147.84 mg g−1 of Ni2+ and 160.00 mg g−1 of Co2+ were adsorbed onto tested biochars. The process of co-adsorption was also efficient (at least 131.68 mg g−1 of Co2+ and 160.00 mg g−1 of Ni2+). The highest adsorbed amount of NH 4 + was 49.43 mg g−1, and the highest amount of PO 4 3− was 112.61 mg g−1. The increase of the solution ionic strength and the presence of natural organic matter affected both the amount of adsorbed Ni2++Co2+ and the reaction mechanism. The results revealed that magnetic nanoparticle impregnated onto tea biochar, can be a very promising alternative for wastewater treatment especially considering removal of heavy metals and nutrients and slow-release fertilizer to improve the composition of soil elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Introducing a novel carbon microtube from waste cotton for environmental applications. • High performance tannic acid absorption for cotton based carbon microtube. • The incredibly low cost and high performance candidate for various environmental applications. • π-π Interactions and hydrogen bonds between TA and CMT as an absorption mechanism. Abstract Given its natural state and cost-effectiveness, cotton can be an ideal material for the fabrication of high performance catalyst and pollutant removal from the environment. In this study, novel carbon microtube derived from cotton waste were successfully prepared by thermal treatment of cotton in an argon atmosphere and used as a tannic acid sorbent. Carbon microtube (CMT) properties were investigated by electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), zeta potentiometer and N 2 adsorption − desorption. The most stable solutions in water were established using CMT treated at 900 and 1300 °C and in tannic acid (TA) at 1100 and 1300 °C, respectively. Maximum TA sorption capacity, 596.5 mg g−1, was found for CMT treated at 1100 °C. The suitability of Langmuir model with simultaneously good fitting of other tested models of sorption implied that monolayer sorption was the first step of TA sorption onto CMT via π–π interactions and hydrogen bonds. Given the repeatability, high removal performance and cost effectiveness of the cotton based carbon microtubes when compared to other well-known sorbent such as carbon nanotubes, the carbon microtubes demonstrated great potential as low-cost and effective tannic acid (and dissolved organic matter) adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract The development of high performance, sustainable and inexpensive catalyst for environmental applications is a highly innovative and promising approach to meet the increasing demands from society on water treatment and pollution remediation. Carbon microtube (CMT) synthesized from cotton waste was successfully developed by direct pyrolysis of cotton bundle in argon atmosphere in different carbonization temperature (900, 1100, 1300 and 1500 °C). Carbon microtubes have been used for removal of Bisphenol A (BPA) in wastewater and showed the optimum performance for CMT11 and CMT 13. The mechanism involved in this efficient water treatment was ascribed to the strong π-π interaction and hydrogen bonds between CMT and BPA. Given the repeatability, high removal performance and cost effectiveness of the cotton based carbon microtubes when compared to other well-known catalysts such as carbon nanotubes, the carbon microtubes demonstrated great potential as low-cost, sustainable and effective catalyst for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Super hard carbon microtubes derived from natural cotton are developed as a cost effective filler for composite applications. Two different carbon materials including synthesized carbon microtubes (CMT) and carbon nanotube (CNT) were used to produce titanium laminate composite via spark plasma sintering process. The sintering process was performed at 1200 °C for both Ti-CMT and Ti-CNT samples which led to the fully densified composites. The proposed mechanism confirmed by cross-sectional XRD investigation revealed formation of Titanium Carbide (TiC) between Ti layers as interfacial bonding phase. A significant improvement in bending strength (1273 ± 11 MPa) and hardness (537 ± 28 Vickers) of Ti-CMT composites was observed compared to titanium laminate and Ti-CNT composite. The results of current study demonstrate the considerable potential of inexpensive yet super hard carbon based material for various composite applications. Highlights • Cotton based carbon microtube(CMT) have been successfully used as filler for titanium composite for the first time. • CMT/Ti composites showed higher mechanical performance compared to CNT/Ti. • Different interfacial bonding mechanism developed the strengthening of composite. • Carbon microtubes demonstrated great potential as low-cost and effective filler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basalt fiber (BF) is an eco-friendly fiber that can mitigate environmental footprint by enabling lightweight composite systems and components. When combined with carbonaceous structures such as carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene, these fibers can form multi-scale composites with remarkable potential for creating smart composites with added functionalities. In this paper, we review various fiber treatment methods used for nanomaterials, which include chemical vapor deposition (CVD), electrophoretic deposition, sizing, dipping, and chemical grafting. Compared to matrix modification, fiber treatment methods are more efficient in facilitating better load transfer between the matrix resin and fiber reinforcement through a nanomaterial bridge. Custom sizing with nanomaterials and CVD processes without a catalyst have been found the most effective methods for immobilizing nanomaterials onto the fibers. This advancement sets the stage for a new generation of sustainable and functional polymer composites that can support a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vanadium carbide reinforced aluminium matrix composite has been fabricated successfully by using high-pressure spark plasma sintering at very low temperature (220 °C) for the first time. Applying 30, 150 and 300 MPa pressure have prepared three different samples. The microstructure investigation revealed layer-by-layer formation of the composite for all samples. It is observed that layer to layer interfacial bonding was perfect by applying 300 MPa during sintering process. The proposed mechanism for sintering behavior at ultra-low temperature was introduced cold welding; plastic deformation and micro spark between particles. The optimum physical and mechanical properties obtained from composites prepared at maximum applied pressure (300 MPa) showing 99% of theoretical density, 332 MPa bending strength and 264 hardness (Vickers). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cheetah skin carbon nanotube, a novel periodically patterned nanocarbon on CNT synthesized as a highly effective filler for fabrication of high performance composites. The advantage of newly developed morphology lies in the fact that the size of nanocarbon on CNT and their distance can be fully controlled based on the application requirements. Cheetah skin CNT shows an excellent thermal stability and dispersibility in a high density polyethylene (HDPE) compared to pristine CNT/HDPE composite, making cheetah skin CNT a suitable candidate for fabrication of high performance HDPE based composite. The addition of cheetah skin CNT into HDPE resulted in a composite with improved thermomechanical properties. Compared with the pure HDPE and HDPE/pristine CNT, storage modulus and loss modulus of HDPE/cheetah skin CNT improved significantly at low temperatures even with very low content of cheetah skin CNT. Also, the thermal stability of the cheetah skin CNT/HDPE was found to be significantly higher than that of pristine CNT/HDPE composite in both isothermal and non-isothermal degradation performed for composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced Oxidation Processes (O 3 - and H 2 O 2 - assisted photocatalysis under Vis irradiation) were applied for the removal of recalcitrant pollutant from wastewater. The new periodically patterned carbon nanotube entitled cheetah skin structure introduced for the first time. The photocatalytic activity of cheetah skin CNT modified by poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was tested in the decomposition of bisphenol A (BPA). The obtained CNT/PAN/PMMA composites differ in morphological structure. In PAN/CNT composite, a tubular coating was formed and a continuous coating layer of PAN on the surface of nanotubes was observed. In PAN/PMMA/CNT composite after carbonization process, the PMMA was completely evaporated and Carbon Nano Particles (CNP) with circular morphology in order of less than 10 nm were coated on the surface of nanotube walls forming a cheetah skin structure. The presence of CNP led to significant increase in degradation temperature. The application of tested nanocomposites enabled a significant removal of BPA. The highest changes in water pollution were observed during first 20 min of treatment. Nanocomposite containing 1.5% PAN - 0.5%PMMA demonstrated the best activity. During photo enhanced ozonation almost 90–95% of BPA was removed. H 2 O 2 slightly increased oxidation under Vis irradiation. The removal of BPA proceeded according to a pseudo-first order regime. Toxicity of BPA was significantly reduced after treatment and applied procedures enabled to obtain high quality non-toxic water. The obtained results clearly indicate that novel PAN-PMMA modified CNT could be a promising candidate for the photo mineralization of BPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that the interaction between suspended ceramic nanoparticles (TiB 2 and TiO 2 ) in molten alloys affects the strengthening mechanisms of nanoparticle reinforced composites. The present study follows a comparative approach to investigate this phenomenon during casting process of aluminum composites reinforced by TiB 2 and TiO 2 nanoparticles. Microstructural studies accompanied by the measurements of hardness and tensile strength showed that the highest improvement in mechanical properties of the nanocomposites was achieved when Orowan, load bearing mechanism and Hall-Petch mechanisms were simultaneously engaged in the strengthening process of the metal matrix. In order to predict the mechanical properties, four artificial neural networks based on multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) and single-input and multi-output (SIMO) models were created using Bayesian regularization, and cross validated. Showing errors less than 5%, the developed models can reliably be used to reduce the product development time and fabrication of the aluminum matrix nanocomposites in future under different processing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum-TaC composites containing 5, 10 and 15 wt% TaC as reinforcement particles were prepared by spark plasma sintering method. A high-energy ball mill was used to mix initial powders. All of the samples were sintered at 450 °C and the measurement results indicated that the maximum relative density, bending strength were achieved with 5 wt% TaC. XRD investigations revealed only aluminum and TaC as identified phases and no additional phase was detected due to the reaction between matrix and reinforcement particles. SEM observations and EDS analyses demonstrated the agglomeration of reinforcement particles in composites containing 10 and 15 wt% TaC, while the uniform distribution of aluminum and TaC particles was found in composite containing 5 wt% reinforcement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene reinforced Poly(vinylidene fluoride) composite nanofibers were prepared and their morphology, crystallinity, polymorphism and electrical outputs were investigated for the first time. Nanofibers were prepared using electrospinning technique with different graphene contents. DSC, FTIR and WAXD analyses were used to evaluate the polymorphism of PVDF crystals upon graphene addition. It was observed that addition of a small amount of graphene (0.1%wt) significantly increased the F(β) and open-circuit voltage of nanofibers. However, further increase in graphene content decreased the electrical output of randomly oriented nanofibers. The developed PVDF/graphene nanogenerator has the ability to fully synchronize the finger movement and its generated electricity can light up a commercial LED for 30 s. This new type of PVDF generator has the potential to be used as a self-charging power source and could be used in powering the personal electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interactions between suspended ceramic particles in composite slurry and advancing solidification front take place during liquid state processing of particle reinforced metal matrix composites. The introduced solidification models in this research propose the possibility of nanoparticle engulfment by solidification front during gravity casting of molten composite. Results indicate that the strengthening mechanisms are considerably affected by the degree of particle engulfment and the quality of particle distribution in solid matrix. Microstructural studies show that nanoparticles are either engulfed inside metal grains or pushed by solidification front into the aluminum-silicon interface. The comparison of mechanical properties with the changes of secondary dendrite arm spacing proposes the dominance of Orowan strengthening mechanism in the samples reinforced by 0.5 vol% nanoparticles. The highest tensile properties are achieved in the composites reinforced by 1.5 vol% TiB 2 nanoparticles. Experimental results of mechanical tests are constructed to create a multi-input and multi-output model by using a Neural Networks-Levenberg Marquardt Algorithm (NN-LMA). It is reported that the NN- LMA model is highly accurate (the margin of error is less than 5%) to predict the mechanical properties of Al-TiB 2 composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mixture of zeolite X and A, derived from coal fly ash (CFA), was protonated and utilized as an acid catalyst to decompose single‐use plastics (SUP) waste into lighter hydrocarbons. Low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) was selected as the source of SUP, and this study aimed to investigate the catalytic effects of the protonated CFA‐derived zeolite (H‐XA) as an economical option on the LDPE pyrolysis temperature and output. CFA converted into H‐XA through the conventional alkali fusion, followed by sonication and simplified hydrothermal and protonation processes. The impact of the alkali agent ratio on the resulting product was investigated, and outcomes were evaluated. The product with optimum properties was then selected for investigation in the LDPE pyrolysis studies. Finally, the results were compared with commercial Protonated Zeolite Socony Mobil‐5 (H‐ZSM5) and thermal decomposition without catalysts. Regarding LDPE degradation temperature, H‐XA could lower that by 97 °C compared to thermal degradation, which was almost the same as commercial H‐ZSM5 with 110 °C. The pyrograms obtained through the Pyrolysis‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (Py‐GCMS) analysis indicated the elimination of heavier hydrocarbons in the presence of H‐XA and the product spectra laid in the range of C3 to C9, which was entirely different from the LDPE with hydrocarbons of varying lengths. Moreover, kinetic studies on the LDPE decomposition reactions in this work have revealed that LDPE conversion occurs at a lower activation energy level in the presence of H‐XA, which is comparable to the energy level observed when H‐ZSM5 is used as the catalyst. The synthesis of H‐XA with desirable catalytic activity, such as the ability to lower the LDPE degradation temperature and make lighter hydrocarbons as the pyrolysis output, suggests the great potential of the CFA‐based acid catalyst for use in SUP recycling. This represent a game of waste versus waste within the framework of the circular economy, where the environment is the ultimate winner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing environmental awareness attracted research attention to the development of efficient methods in the recycling and the recovery of wastes. Microwave assisted pyrolysis (MWAP) is an alternative heating approach to convert organic waste materials into value-added products, such as biochar (BC), biogas and bio-oil. Different types of biochar materials have been produced through microwave heating technique that, in most of the cases, can be utilized for adsorption of organic and inorganic pollutants. The BC have been employed as CO 2 mitigator and fertilizer for soils due to their promising physiochemical properties. In this review paper, we discuss the various aspects of Microwave assisted pyrolysis and the available case studies, as well as the mechanism of adsorption of different pollutants onto biochars. Development of microwaved biochar for other applications such as supercapacitors, batteries, electrode materials, and composite membranes are also discussed. It is believed that the development and synthesis of high potential biochar through microwave assisted pyrolysis still needs very precise adjustment of processing conditions, pre-treatment of feedstock and post treatment steps for further enhancement of properties for specific applications. The paper concludes that considering the sustainable route in development of high-performance biochar would make microwave assisted pyrolysis cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and tunable materials of great potential for wide range of applications. • Growing environmental awareness in the recycling and the recovery of wastes. • Microwave assisted pyrolysis as an energy efficient approach for waste repurposing. • Microwave synthetized biochar as a cost effective/tunable technique for different environmental applications. • Potential of MW-BC for supercapacitors, battery electrode, composites and membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fracture toughness, a parameter representing the resistance to fracture and capacity of a material to absorb impact force or energy, is one of the key performance indicators that need to be considered when selecting plastics to fabricate the parts for critical structural applications. Most plastics exhibit brittle type of fracture with low fracture toughness which can greatly limit their performance especially for long-term and special applications. A relatively simple and straightforward strategy to enhance the fracture toughness is incorporating elastomers into plastics via direct melt compounding processing. However, in the case of polypropylene composites, the existence of a second phase including filler or fiber and the importance of interfacial bonding between the polymer matrix and filler, requires the mechanism and the effectiveness of toughening strategy to be studied carefully. This paper presents an overview of the toughening mechanism in Polypropylene and provides the details of different techniques for achieving the right balance between strength and toughness in thermoplastic composites. The concept of toughness in this work covers both macro and micro-level toughness that refers to structural toughness and toughness as impact behavior of composites. The factors influencing the efficiency of toughened polymer composites are discussed in detail. Current challenges and future direction in toughening mechanism in thermoplastics composites are proposed for promoting the application of different strategy or combining a couple of strategies for enhancing the fracture toughness of thermoplastic composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a circular economy model the way we use the textiles needs to change at a fundamental level. A circular economy is an alternative to a traditional economy (fabrication, use and dispose) in which we keep resources in a loop for as much time as possible, try to maintain their value while in use, and repurpose for generation of new products at the end of utilization. The value of the global fashion industry is 3000 Billion dollars that accounts for more than 2% of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (https://fashionunited.com/global-fashion-industry-statistics/). In the last two decades not only the textile industry has doubled the production but also an average global annual consumption of textiles has doubled from 7 to 13 kg per person and reached to the threshold of 100 million tonnes of textiles consumption. More than two thirds of the textile goes to landfill at the end of their use and just around 15% is recycled. Various scientific studies confirm that the disposal nature of fast fashion and throwaway culture is resulting in a serious environmental, health, social and economic concern. One of the global environmental challenges arising from micro-plastic and micro-textile waste entering into the oceans that can end up in fish and eventually food chain. Herein, through a systematic literature review, the significance of circular fashion and textile is highlighted and various approaches for reuse, recycle and repurposing of the textiles waste as well as disruptive scientific breakthroughs, innovations and strategies towards a circular textile economy have been discussed. Looking into the future, remarks have been made in regards to tackling the key challenges in recycling of textile materials in different stages of their manufacturing process. Unlabelled Image • Why circular fashion and textile industry is important? • Reuse, recycle and repurposing methods of textile waste • 12 principles of circular economy in fashion industry • Cleaner Production Scenario and Fashion Foresight [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An inventive setup was developed for LDPE pyrolysis using a high-pressure reactor. • Quartz fibre is used in a catalyst bed built to protect catalysts in LDPE pyrolysis. • HZSM-5 catalyst bed in setup yields liquid hydrocarbons from pure and waste LDPE. • The properties of the pyrolysis outputs imply their potential as hydrocarbon fuels. • Calorific values of LDPE pyrolysis liquids suggest potential as sustainable fuels. • Despite its use in pyrolysis, regenerated HZSM-5 retains impact on LDPE degradation. The recycling of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) poses a significant challenge due to its resistance to degradation and presence of impurities among the waste LDPE. This study introduces an innovative method for LDPE pyrolysis, aiming to enhance the efficiency of LDPE recycling and contribute to the circular economy of plastics. We utilized an HZSM-5 catalyst within a unique setup that incorporates a catalyst bed constructed from a quartz fibre membrane filter. This innovative hybrid method, a combination of in-situ and ex-situ modes, was designed to shield the catalyst from direct contact with undesired materials, thereby facilitating easy catalyst separation at the end of the process. Experiments were conducted in a high-pressure batch reactor, heated to 400 °C within a closed thermodynamic system. Parallel runs were performed for both pure and waste LDPE, with and without the catalyst. The catalytic pyrolysis resulted in an oil output of 40.3 % for waste LDPE and 43.5 % for pure LDPE, with a significant increase in aromatics when comparing thermal to catalytic pyrolysis. The calorific values of the pyrolysis liquids were found to be 46.2 for pure LDPE and 46.1 for waste LDPE, indicating their potential for sustainable hydrocarbon fuel synthesis. Following the catalytic pyrolysis, the spent catalyst underwent stepwise oxidation as a regeneration method, indicating a partial loss of activity but a similar influence on the degradation temperature as the fresh catalyst. This study not only presents a promising approach to LDPE recycling but also offers a comprehensive analysis of both the pyrolysis outputs and the spent catalyst. Such detailed analysis is crucial for refining the LDPE pyrolysis process and facilitating its scale-up for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A flexible silicon-carbon nanofibre composite is reported as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries. Self-standing, binder-free and flexible anodes composed of Si nanoparticles embedded inside carbon nanofibers of different fibre diameter are fabricated via electrospinning. The silicon nanoparticles are effectively protected from direct exposure to the electrolyte by the carbon fibre encapsulation, leading to vastly improved capacity retention during galvanostatic half-cell cycling. Cycling results also showed that an electrode with 230 nm fibre diameter has enhanced cyclability and rate capability when compared to one with 620 nm diameter. SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) post-cycling investigations of the electrodes reveals an appropriate structural stability and lower impedance during cycling for the electrode with thinner carbon fibres. This behaviour is associated with the low linear density of the Si nanoparticles along the thin carbon nanofibers, which prevents the fracture of the carbon fibres at the sites of Si clusters. • Electrospun Si nanoparticles-carbon nanofiber anode is investigated for LIBs. • The produced anodes are self-standing, binder-free and flexible. • The anode with thinner CNFs shows enhanced rate capability and cyclability. • The enhancement is due to the lower linear density of SiNPs along the thin CNFs. • Thinner CNFs provide the increased kinetics of Li+ and electron transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Alumina reinforced Magnesium Matrix Composites have been prepared by two different sintering method: microwave and spark plasma sintering (SPS) processes. 5 wt% alumina whisker was blended with magnesium powders in ethanol media for 10 min. The sintering temperatures in the spark plasma and microwave furnace were at 420° and 700 °C, respectively. Thermodynamic investigation and XRD results revealed the formation of MgO, Mg 2 Al 3 compounds in both sintered composites. However, microwave sintering led to form a porous composite (53.1% of theoretical density) while SPS resulted to formation of a fully dense composite. The mechanical examinations showed higher bending strength (163 ± 10 MPa) and micro-hardness (101 ± 11 Vickers) of SPS samples rather than microwave samples as it expected. By using two different sintering methods (pressure-less and pressure-assisted) and controlling processing parameters, the porosity of the final products can be changed from porous to fully dense composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospun P(VDF-TrFE) nanogenrators with a wide range of piezoelectricity performance and physiochemical properties is fabricated through modification of the processing parameters such as polymer concentration, applied voltage, feed rate and electrospinning time/fibres mat thickness. In order to estimate and predict the relationships of the process parameters with the piezoelectricity performance and fibres morphology, an Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) model is developed. Results of the developed ANN model is found to be in a good agreement with experimental results with less than 5% error and shows the good potential to model physiochemical properties of the nanogenrators to predict untested conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Various 2D materials, their structure, properties, pros and cons are summarized. • The use of 2D materials in intelligent packaging is summarized. • Current research gaps and future prospects in this field are discussed. The demand for high food safety standards, spoilage prevention, and the minimization of food waste has spurred extensive investigation into intelligent food packaging. Within this field, considerable attention has been directed towards two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials owing to their exceptionally thin layered configuration and diverse physicochemical, electrical, optical, and thermal properties. These attributes render 2D nanomaterials highly suitable for enhancing sensing capabilities in intelligent packaging systems. This review delves into the forefront of research concerning the utilization of 2D nanomaterials in intelligent packaging applications. It provides a comprehensive survey of intelligent food packaging concepts and explores various 2D materials, including graphene-based materials, MXene, and silicate clay, investigated for their potential in intelligent packaging systems. Additionally, the review interprets the structure, properties, and utilization of 2D materials in diverse biosensing systems encompassing gas, moisture, pH, and bacteria sensors, indicators, or wireless tags. Moreover, it examines the influence of 2D materials on the mechanical, optical, thermal, barrier, and bioactive properties of smart packaging, while also deliberating on their respective advantages and limitations. By combining these foundational elements, this study offers a distinctive and thorough contribution to the domain of food packaging, laying the groundwork for the future development of sustainable and high-performance packaging materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of UVA-Vis irradiation of magnetic microtubes derived from cotton waste on the process of Bisphenol A (BPA) removal and mineralisation is studied. The magnetic microtubes were developed by ultra-fast microwave treatment of carbonised cotton waste to grow Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles onto the surface of tubes. The activity of magnetic microtubes was tested in the removal of BPA, both in the dark adsorption and under UVA-Vis irradiation. The highest dark adsorption capacity was measured for sample carbonized at 1100 °C (208 mg·g-1), confirming its high potential in BPA removal from water through direct adsorption. The highest changes in water pollution were observed during the first 10 min of treatment. Toxicity of BPA was significantly reduced after treatment and applied procedures enabled the high quality non-toxic water. The obtained results clearly indicate that the ultrafast and solvent free magnetisation of carbon microtube derived from textile waste offers a low-cost solution for the efficient photo mineralisation of BPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchically porous piezoelectric polymer nanofibers are prepared through precise control over the thermodynamics and kinetics of liquid–liquid phase separation of nonsolvent (water) in poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE)) solution. Hierarchy is achieved by fabricating fibers with pores only on the surface of the fiber, or pores only inside the fiber with a closed surface, or pores that are homogeneously distributed in both the volume and surface of the nanofiber. For the fabrication of hierarchically porous nanofibers, guidelines are formulated. A detailed experimental and simulation study of the influence of different porosities on the electrical output of piezoelectric nanogenerators is presented. It is shown that bulk porosity significantly increases the power output of the comprising nanogenerator, whereas surface porosity deteriorates electrical performance. Finite element method simulations attribute the better performance to increased volumetric strain in bulk porous nanofibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Graphene and carbon nanotube due to their outstanding mechanical performance were used as reinforcement in aluminum (Al) based composite through spark plasma sintering (SPS), microwave (MW) and conventional techniques. The initial compositions of Al-1 wt% CNT, Al-1 wt% GNP and Al-1 wt% CNT–1 wt% GNP were mixed by a high energy ultrasonic device and mixer mill to achieve homogenous dispersion. The SPS, MW and conventional processes were conducted at almost 450, 600 and 700 °C, respectively. The maximum relative density (99.7 ± 0.2% of theoretical density) and bending strength (337 ± 11 MPa) obtained by SPS, while maximum microhardness of 221 ± 11 Vickers achieved by microwave for Al-1 wt% CNT–1 wt% GNP hybrid composite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) examinations identified Al as the only dominant phase accompanied by very low intensity peaks of Al 4 C 3. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) micrographs demonstrated uniform distribution of GNP as well as CNT reinforcement in spark plasma sintered samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the mechanical properties and microstructure of Al-15 wt % TiC composite samples prepared by spark plasma, microwave, and conventional sintering were investigated. The sintering process was performed by the speak plasma sintering (SPS) technique, microwave and conventional furnaces at 400 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C, respectively. The results showed that sintered samples by SPS have the highest relative density (99% of theoretical density), bending strength (291 ± 12 MPa), and hardness (253 ± 23 HV). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) investigations showed the formation of TiO2 from the surface layer decomposition of TiC particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs demonstrated uniform distribution of reinforcement particles in all sintered samples. The SEM/EDS analysis revealed the formation of TiO2 around the porous TiC particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of sintering method on the structure and mechanical properties of aluminum −10 wt% VC composite was investigated. Aluminum-VC metal matrix composite was prepared successfully by conventional (at 600 °C), microwave (at 600 °C) and spark plasma sintering (at 450 °C). The obtained results indicate that the aluminum −10 wt% VC composite prepared by SPS had the highest relative density (99 ± 0.6 ± %TD), bending strength (295 ± 15 MPa) and microhardness (232 ± 16 Vickers). The XRD investigations showed the decomposition of VC phase and the formation of Al 3 V intermetallic phase in the microwave-sintered samples. The SEM micrographs and EDS analyses revealed uniform distribution of reinforcement particles in SPS method and the formation of Al 3 V phase in microwave-sintered sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work deals with modeling coating characteristics of yttria-stabilized zirconia such as deposition efficiency, adhesion strength, surface roughness, and hardness in plasma spray process. Here, the process factors are input power, primary gas flow rate, stand-off distance, powder feed rate, and carrier gas flow rate. Firstly, a number of 32 experiments were conducted based on rotatable central composite design of experiments. Then, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system was used to correlate mapping relationships between plasma spray factors and mentioned coating properties. After examination of various network structures, results showed that the one with a number of two triangular membership function predicts the coating properties with the lowest root mean square error. Therefore, the developed model was used to determine the effect of plasma spray factors on mentioned characteristics according to graphs which were plotted through the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like other manufacturing processes, plasma spraying also has a non-linear behavior due to contribution of many coating parameters. This characteristic makes finding optimal factor combination difficult. Hence, the problem can be solved through effective and strategic statistical methods integrated with systematic experimental data. The purpose of this paper is to study the tribological and mechanical performance of coated surface deduced by plasma spraying process. Taguchi experimental design and analysis of variances (ANOVA) were used to investigate the influence of plasma spraying factors (spraying layers, accelerating voltage, arc current, travel speed, stand-off distance, powder feed rate, carrier gas flow rate, and primary gas flow rate) on oxidant percent and hardness. To find optimal combination of factors to reach maximum oxidation and hardness, gray relational analysis (GRA) coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) are applied on experimental data. Here, the PCA is used to find the most appropriate weighing factors necessary for construction gray relational grade. Results indicated that stand-off-distance is the most significant factor having the greatest influence on gray relational grade, followed by powder feed rate, traverse speed, spraying layers, and primary gas flow rate. Furthermore, GRA coupled with PCA can effectively acquire the optimal combination of plasma spraying parameters and the proposed approach can be a useful tool to increase the coating performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]