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The accumulation of plastic packaging wastes in the natural environment highlights the significance of sustainable alternatives. Paper is widely used as a biodegradable packaging material, but poor mechanical strength, barrier properties, and water resistance limit its utility. Typical paper coating materials applied to overcome such drawbacks, such as polyethylene (PE) and ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), are not desirable for sustainability due to environmental persistence. Here, we report a biodegradable, biocompatible, robust, and high-barrier paper coating strategy using boric acid-crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Various crosslinked-PVA solutions were prepared using boric acid (BA) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) as a crosslinker and an acid catalyst, respectively. The solutions were coated onto the Kraft paper (KP) through facile bar coating with epichlorohydrin (ECH) as a binder (henceforth referred to as coated papers). The coated papers (KP-P, KP-PB, KP-PBH) show remarkably improved oxygen (∼0.89 cc m−2 d−1) and water vapor (∼5.17 g m−2 d−1) barrier properties as well as tensile strength (∼53.0 MPa) that is retained in moist conditions. The coated papers were significantly mineralized into CO2 (59.2–81.6% over 111 d) in the simulated marine environment biodegradation test. Depolymerization of polymer chains and surface degradation of coated papers are evidenced via FT-IR and SEM, respectively. The microcosm test revealed that the intensive disintegration of the coated papers is synergistically driven by both biotic and abiotic factors (i.e., mechanical stress). Moreover, the in vitro biocompatibility tests employing human embryonic kidney and mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, and in vivo biocompatibility test with mice suggest that the coated papers are highly biocompatible. This work provides a promising strategy for paper packaging that enhances packaging performance without compromising environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-enzymatic electrochemical blood glucose sensors often suffer from issues such as requiring an alkaline environment, limited monitoring range, and poor anti-interference properties. Carbon substrates have been demonstrated to improve the performance of non-enzymatic sensors, but complex and energy-consuming manufacturing processes restrict their use. Herein, a simple and green approach for the preparation of 3D porous Au/Au-Pt networks (PAAPNs) is proposed using tissue paper for recycling as the nanomaterial substrate to deposit Au-Pt bimetallic nanoparticles. The unique structure of the PAAPNs sensor allows for low-potential operation (-1.0 V) with a wide monitoring range (-0.25 to 36 mM) in a neutral environment. Moreover, the sensor exhibited excellent selectivity (<10% response of interference) even without the use of an anti-interference outer membrane. Further investigation using density functional theory (DFT) simulation revealed the synergistic effect between Au and Pt in promoting glucose oxidation. Overall, this work provides a simple and low-carbon footprint method for creating carbon substrates from tissue paper for recycling, offering new opportunities for fabricating novel value-added nanomaterials for medical sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petroleum-based plastics are useful, but they pose a huge threat to the environment and human health. The development of sustainable cellulose paper materials with excellent mechanical and water-resistance properties to replace plastics is highly desirable but also challenging. Herein, we report a new kind of rosin-based modifier synthesized from fully hydrogenated rosin and (3-glycidoxypropyl)triethoxysilane, which can covalently bind with cellulose fiber networks to improve the hydrophobicity and weaken the capillarity of cellulose paper. The rosin-grafted cellulose composite paper shows a unique combination of water resistance (water absorption of 19.2% and 37.9% in 25 and 90 °C water, respectively) and high strength (tensile strength of 47.9 MPa and Young's modulus of 2.32 GPa). Moreover, the rosin-grafted cellulose composite paper can be completely degraded when buried in soil for up to 100 days, and it can be recycled when treated with an alkali. These impressive performances make rosin-grafted cellulose composite paper a promising eco-friendly alternative material to replace plastics in straws, boxes, cups, bags and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current open-loop practices employed to render paper substrates water- and oil-repellent for packaging and non-packaging applications have generated ocean pollution and have placed daunting burdens on landfills. In this study, we report a green, unique and facile approach for the fabrication of grease- and water-resistant paper products with 100% recyclability of the paper pulp. Low surface energy polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was grafted onto a biobased chitosan polymer via urea linkages to prepare the graft copolymer chitosan-graft-polydimethylsiloxane (chitosan-g-PDMS). Chitosan-g-PDMS was then applied as a coating onto an unbleached Kraft paper substrate from an aqueous solution. The coated paper substrates exhibited good hydrophobic properties with a water contact angle of 120.53 ± 0.96° and a Cobb 60 value of 9.89 ± 0.32 g m−2. The coated paper substrates also showed good oil-resistance as evident from the kit rating value of 11.7/12. The tensile strength, crushing resistance, bending stiffness, and internal tearing resistance of the paper before and after coating treatment was determined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was used to characterize changes in the porosity of the paper before and after the coating. The pulp recyclability of the coated paper was validated by subjecting the coated paper samples to repulping and washing treatment. This novel and practical approach can provide significant environmental benefits by offering plastic-free, fluorine-free and fully-recyclable water- and grease-resistant paper; thus promoting sustainability due to its unique closed-loop nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterproof coating is necessary for paper-based packaging materials, especially as a plastic substitute in single-use applications. Currently, most paper-based packaging employs hazardous fluorocarbon coatings or other petroleum-based additives, which has caused a lot of concerns over safety. Herein, a novel edible waterproof coating was fabricated by a beeswax-in-water Pickering emulsion using hemicellulose-grafted-lauric acid (H-LA) micelles as nano-stabilizers. The fully biomass-based waterproof coating agent presented a uniform and stable water dispersion with a droplet size of around 1 μm. And compared with conventional surfactants, H-LA micelles stabilized at the oil–water interfaces and formed Pickering emulsions with enhanced stability. The Pickering emulsion was then applied as a coating of paper. The coated paper exhibited excellent water-resistance with a water contact angle of 130 ± 2.89° and an effective waterproof time of up to 6 h. The coated paper also showed good moisture barrier properties; the water vapor transmission rate was lower than 5.05 g mm m−2 day−1. Moreover, the waterproof coating was non-toxic, environmentally friendly and biocompatible, and could completely biodegrade in soil within 2 months. This work may provide an alternative solution for safe, cost-effective and sustainable paper-based packaging materials to replace traditional disposable plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papermaking is a highly energy-consuming industry. The growth in paper demand will further intensify the need for energy and the stress of GHG emissions. Papermaking involves complex processing routes, and energy is required for collecting raw materials, producing chemicals, and pulp and papermaking. Previous investigations of energy consumption in the papermaking industry have focused primarily on the analysis of one single product or one single pathway, lacking a comprehensive and systematic comparison of various products and pathways. Herein, the results of a life cycle energy consumption analysis of major paper products in China using an extensive system boundary are presented. When 1 tonne of paper was produced in China in 2015, the maximum energy consumption was 38.17 GJ for tissue paper, with a minimum energy consumption of 15.90 GJ for corrugated medium. This study also predicts energy-related GHG emissions and a mitigation target in the papermaking industry in China by 2050. Although the energy consumption assumed to be distributed to the papermaking industry can meet its development requirements, the GHG emissions will exceed the mitigation target by about 101 Mt CO2 eq. in 2050 under current policy. The target can be achieved by changing the energy structure and promoting low-carbon technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In continuation of previously reported results, the ionic liquid 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-5-ene-1-ium acetate was also found to be a powerful non-derivatizing solvent for cellulosic waste such as paper and cardboard. The ionic liquid could dissolve all the present bio-polymers (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) in high concentrations, resulting in solutions with visco-elastic properties that were suitable for dry-jet wet fiber spinning. The cellulosic raw materials were refined gradually to identify the influence of residual components on the spinnability of the respective solution. Polymer degradation and losses in the spinning process could be avoided nearly entirely. With the exception of virtually unrefined cardboard, all the samples showed excellent spinnability, resulting in fibers with high tensile strength. Prototype textiles were produced to validate the quality of the fibers and demonstrate the possibility of using residual lignin in cardboard as a natural dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers and surfactants are used in many technological and industrial applications such as the manufacture of functional materials and coatings, personal care and pharmaceutical products, food science, paints, anti-icing fluids, tertiary oil recovery and the paper industry. Polymer–surfactant mixtures are particularly important in shampoos and conditioners. However, as in almost every other industry over the past five or more decades, the performance of hair care formulations has been significantly improved by the use of petrochemical-derived ingredients. As a result, cosmetic formulations, and hair care formulations in particular, have been based primarily on polymers and surfactants that are neither renewable, nor derived from environmentally friendly processes, nor have a positive environmental impact. This contrasts with the extensive use of natural and renewable products, mainly plant extracts, in cosmetics in ancient times. Therefore, the substitution of currently used ingredients with others of natural origin has been a top priority for the cosmetic industry over the last two decades, and in order to achieve greater consumer acceptance, it is crucial to maintain and, where possible, improve the technical performance of such products. This paper describes the complexities and challenges of developing greener shampoo and conditioner ingredients and formulations to meet current and future needs, and outlines a methodological approach based on model hair surfaces and a selection of appropriate experimental and numerical techniques to achieve our goals. Some encouraging technical routes using biosurfactants, biopolymers and bio-based polymers are presented, along with the significant opportunity to obtain a wide range of green ingredients through molecular design and well-controlled biotechnological processes. Similar concerns apply to other cosmetic products such as waxes, fragrances, bleaching agents, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-step protocol was developed for the hydrolytic hydrogenation of microcrystalline cellulose into sorbitol over commercial carbon-supported Ru, in the presence of gaseous CO2 as an acid source and molecular hydrogen as a reductant. Under these conditions, cellulose was first hydrolysed to glucose by reversibly formed carbonic acid in water and then instantaneously hydrogenated on Ru/C. By tuning the reaction parameters, such as temperature, time and the relative pressure of CO2 and hydrogen gas, cellulose was fully converted at 220 °C in 18 h under 30 and 40 bar of H2 and CO2, respectively, with a sorbitol yield of 81%. Blank experiments revealed that without a catalyst and hydrogen, the reaction exhibited <5% conversion and glucose was the only detected product when the reaction was performed under CO2 pressure. XRD measurements on CO2-treated cellulose surprisingly revealed no noticeable changes in the crystallinity index (<10% with respect to microcrystalline cellulose), suggesting that hydrolytic hydrogenation took place on crystalline, not amorphous, cellulose. Furthermore, not only several cellulosic feedstocks, including filter paper, cotton wool, and cotton fiber, but also typical cellulose-based wastes such as a cardboard pizza box were also tested and under the optimized conditions sorbitol was obtained with yields ranging from 56% up to 72% in all cases. No less significant was the Ru/C catalyst stability, which could be recycled at least six times without any noticeable activity loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a huge demand for low-cost, eco-friendly, flexible and wearable electronics which find applications in personal health monitoring. Flexible electronics based on plastic substrates have been extensively studied in this regard because of their versatility. However, their fabrication involves energy consuming complex procedures and processing of eco-unfriendly materials which limit their use to certain specific applications. Here we report the fabrication of a flexible all-carbon field effect transistor (FET) using a low-cost, recyclable and biodegradable cellulose paper as both the substrate and the dielectric and pencil graphite as the source, drain, channel and gate without using any expensive, toxic or non-biodegradable materials. The FET transfer characteristics show ambipolar behavior which can be utilized in analog electronics applications like rectifiers, mixers and frequency multipliers and its mobility was found to be very high compared to reduced graphene oxide based FETs. The FET was utilized as a strain sensor which shows excellent sensitivity for very low strains (of both tensile and compressive type) which is comparable to and even better than recently reported carbon nanotube and graphene based strain sensors. The sensitivity of the FET based strain sensor can be modulated by varying the gate voltage under strain. Furthermore, we investigated the performance of the sensor by integrating it with hand gloves to detect human motion. The results indicate that the sensor can be utilized in patient surveillance in healthcare and human–machine interface (HMI) applications. The successful fabrication of this paper based all-carbon transistor using only paper and pencil graphite and its application in human motion detection using strain sensing indicate that this approach can be used for developing highly scalable, low cost, low energy, flexible electronics for healthcare without using any sophisticated fabrication methods or toxic chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely implemented to power portable electronic devices and are increasingly in demand for large-scale applications. One of the major obstacles for this technology is still the low cost-efficiency of its electrochemical active materials and production processes. In this work, we present a novel impregnation–carbothermal reduction method to generate a LiFePO4–carbon paper hybrid electrode, which doesn't require a metallic current collector, polymeric binder or conducting additives to function as a cathode material in a LIB system. A shell of LiFePO4 crystals was grown in situ on carbon fibres during the carbonization of microcrystalline cellulose. The LiFePO4–carbon paper electrode achieved an initial reversible areal capacity of 197 μA h cm−2 increasing to 222 μA h cm−2 after 500 cycles at a current density of 0.1 mA cm−2. The hybrid electrode also demonstrated a superior cycling performance for up to 1000 cycles. The free-standing electrode could be potentially applied for flexible lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrocatalytic hydrogenation of aromatic rings in benzoic acid derivatives has arisen as a notionally engaging substitute for thermal catalysis under mild conditions. However, the utilization of organic solvents and low faradaic efficiency are incompatible with the principles of green chemistry and energy conservation. Herein, bimetallic PtRu supported on carbon paper developed by co-electrodeposition with optimized atomic ratios maintains an inspiring high conversion of 92.9%, high selectivity of 100% and a high faradaic efficiency of 62.2% for the hydrogenation of benzoic acid to cyclohexanecarboxylic acid in an acidic aqueous electrolyte without external H2, which is the best result to date. The optimized electrocatalyst also exhibits outstanding stability and universality for the electrocatalytic hydrogenation of benzoic acid derivatives. In situ Raman results and theoretical calculations prove that the synergistic effect generated by Ru modifying the electronic structure of Pt simultaneously enhances the capture of benzoic acid molecules and interfacial active hydrogen species and lowers the reaction energy barrier. After adsorbing benzoic acid, more accumulation of electrons around the Ru atom reduces the electron density of phenyl, thereby activating the reaction. Meanwhile, the uniform alloy nanoclusters anchored to the carbon paper surface ensure highly efficient electronic transmission and high dispersion of active components, reducing excessive agglomeration. A proton-exchange membrane reactor is also used to certify the potential of the electrocatalytic hydrogenation of benzoic acid derivatives for large-scale application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood bark is a structurally complex by-product of the pulp and paper industry, which focuses primarily on the valorization of structurally more regular wood xylem components. The aim of this study was the elucidation of the less valorised willow wood counterparts (whole bark, inner bark, sclerenchyma bundles, and parenchymatous tissues) by NMR spectroscopic techniques. This allowed a better understanding of the structural features of macromolecular components of bark (i.e. pectin, hemicellulose, and lignin), thus providing a base for a more rational design of the customized biochemical processes prior to chemical processing of bark. This crucial knowledge contributed to the creation of a protocol/decision tool to select tailored enzymes (discarding the slightest substrate binding) for the biological pre-treatment of bark to a state suitable for chemical pulping. Such a protocol/decision-making tool would significantly improve the efficiency of enzyme selection by 60–70% due to the specific catalytic activity of the enzymes involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent progress in portable and wearable electronics has promoted a growing demand for high-performance and flexible energy-storage devices that are abundant and affordable. Because reduced graphene oxide (rGO), originating from inexpensive graphite, serves as a higher-performance energy-storage electrode than conventional activated carbons and carbon nanotubes, research and development of rGO/polymer composite electrodes for flexible supercapacitors have become a center of attraction. However, the fabrication of rGO-based flexible electrodes frequently requires a long time with high-temperature treatment or toxic chemical treatment, resulting in the lack of scalability and eco-friendliness. Here we show a fast, scalable, and environment-compatible route to fabricate a high-performance rGO/cellulose paper supercapacitor electrode. Single-layer graphene oxide (GO) sheets and recycled waste pulp fibers were successfully fabricated into a paper composite by a well-established scalable papermaking process, followed by a room-temperature, additive-free, and millisecond-timescale flash reduction process. The as-prepared rGO/paper electrode had a high specific capacitance, up to 212 F g−1, for an all paper-based flexible supercapacitor, comparable to those of state-of-the-art rGO-based electrodes, while dramatically decreasing the reduction time of GO from the conventional hour timescale to milliseconds. This work will pave the way for green, flexible, and mass-producible energy-storage paper in future wearable electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass, especially lignin and extractives, has the potential to substitute fossil precursors in the chemical industry. The conversion of lignin has been intensively researched, but challenges remain as high temperatures and increased pressure are commonly used, which is not energy efficient. Lignin and wood extractives bear chromophoric groups that can absorb light in the ultraviolet (UV) region, which enables photochemical reactions. Ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) are an emerging technology; they are cheap, versatile, and energy-efficient compared to existing mercury lamps. UV-LEDs were used in this study as a proof of concept for the valorisation of a lignocellulosic residual stream from the pulp and paper industry, sawdust. In a process at ambient temperature and pressure and without the use of a catalyst, we have shown that lignin and extractives can be valorised using light from UV-LEDs. Simplified lignin model compounds were used to pinpoint chemical reactions during irradiation, and to ease the analysis of the sawdust samples. The rate of conversion upon irradiation of the model compounds was found to be 0.7–2.3 g L−1 h−1, depending on the concentration of the starting compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article provides a thorough overview of barrier coating materials that have been used in food packaging with a focus on biodegradable (bio-based or petroleum-based) materials, such as lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, agriculture waste and polyesters. The goal is to provide an opportunity to acknowledge progress made in this field, focusing on modifications made to coatings. These modifications aim to address the shortcomings of biodegradable substrates (either plastic or paper) and improve their performance, enabling them to compete with traditional petroleum-based food packaging materials. This includes their barrier against water vapor and oxygen, mechanical and surface characteristics (sealability and adhesion), as well as antimicrobial properties. The barrier of most biodegradable polymers underperforms in comparison with petroleum-based non-biodegradable polymers, which possess either high water vapor barrier or high oxygen barrier. Coating technology is a promising solution particularly in barrier improvement of biodegradable polymers. Currently, there are only metallized, or inorganic nanosheet coatings available for biodegradable films that meet food packaging requirements. There are some challenges in this field, for example, being able to retain the coating's biodegradability despite applied modifications to improve it's performance, the large-scale fabrication of biodegradable coatings, the coating's delamination and heat-sealability during service time, and the migration of the coating into the packaged food. Moreover, green chemistry and its sustainability needs in biodegradable polymeric coatings are also discussed regarding new ideas and possible directions for widespread application of coatings in food packaging. This is the first review that specifically summarizes biodegradable coatings on plastic and paper substrates with a focus on coating modifications to improve the performance of the base substrate to meet the required properties for food packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights various articles and research papers related to sustainable chemistry and green technologies. Topics covered include chemical recycling of polyester textile wastes, carbon-based catalytic materials, solvent effects on carbohydrate transformation, and the future nickel metal supply for lithium-ion batteries. The journal aims to connect the global chemistry community and promote research in all areas of chemistry. This document is a list of papers published in the journal Green Chemistry. The papers cover a range of topics related to sustainable and environmentally friendly chemistry. Some of the topics include the synthesis of diisocyanates, development of organic solvent nanofiltration membranes, preparation of fluorescent nanomaterials, and liquid mining of lithium. The papers provide valuable research for library patrons interested in these specific areas of study. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry." It highlights various articles and research papers published in the journal, covering topics such as aqueous electrolyte additives, catalytic innovations in furfural transformation, renewable binders for battery systems, and the potential use of glycerol derivatives as bio-based building blocks. The journal aims to promote cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The use of chemical and energy intensive delignification processes in industrial pulping generates cellulosic fibres that are hydrophilic, hygroscopic and functionally restricted to paper and cardboard applications. Here, we propose a bio-based alternative to chemical pulping utilising herbivores to harvest and grind lignocellulosic materials followed by natural fungal growth to delignify and hybridise them to generate hierarchical composite papers with altered, water-repelling surface properties. These papers comprise cellulose and fungal biopolymers produced by cultivation of T. versicolor and P. ostreatus on elephant manure. Papers with considerably more hydrophobic surfaces were obtained at glucosamine contents as low as 0.1 wt%. Paper tensile strengths and elastic moduli were improved with longer fungal growth periods, spanning several weeks, resulting in comprehensive interfacing of cellulose microfibrils through tough nanoscale fungal chitin-β-glucan networks within the papers. Papers produced from lignocellulosic material colonised with P. ostreatus for 16 weeks exhibited the highest tensile strengths and more hydrophobic surfaces than T. versicolor. Hybridisation of lignocellulose with fungal biopolymers resulting in improved surface and mechanical properties highlights the extended opportunities of fungal delignification bioprocessing and demonstrates the considerable potential of the fungal biorefinery as an economical, and as of yet underexploited technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp and paper industry together with lignocellulosic biofuel production provides plentiful streams of lignin and lignin-derived molecules (LDMs) that currently remain underutilized. The heterogeneity and complexity of lignin along with the lack of convenient tools significantly hamper its utilization. Selective separation of these LDMs from streams using specific tools would allow the recovery of aromatic compounds, as well as facilitate biological processes aiming at lignin valorization. To this end, here we report the isolation and characterization of single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies against ferulate, coumarate, and caffeate, which are the molecular representatives of LDMs. Binders for the target LDMs were enriched by interrogating a synthetic scFv library with the phage display technique. As a result, scFv binders specific against each of the target molecules were obtained with affinities in the micromolar range. The selectivity of scFvs towards specific LDMs was proved by recovering caffeate from simulated LDM solution, Kraft lignin, and rice straw hydrolysate samples. Further proof of concept studies with model compounds demonstrated the applicability of antibody-based binders as a detection tool for monitoring microbial LDM conversion. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of scFv binders as a specific toolset for lignin compound recovery and analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It features cutting-edge research on sustainable chemistry and a greener future. The contents list includes articles on topics such as electrosynthesis, sustainable chemical synthesis, corrosion science, lignin modification, and more. The journal aims to connect the world with the chemical sciences and invest profits back into the chemistry community. This document is a list of papers published in the journal Green Chemistry. The papers cover a range of topics related to sustainable and environmentally friendly chemistry. Some of the topics include the efficient fractionation of hemicellulose from hardwood pulp, the synthesis of fructose-based surfactants, and the electrochemical synthesis of formaldehyde. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It features research papers on various topics related to sustainable chemistry, including photocatalytic upgrading of hydroxymethylfurfural, lignin extraction and nanodispersion, selenium-doped carbon materials, and the valorization of bio-renewable glycerol. The journal also includes tutorial reviews on topics such as Pickering emulsion-derived nano/microreactors and the iron ligand-to-metal charge transfer chemistry in water. Additionally, there are perspective papers, communications, and other research papers covering a range of subjects in green chemistry. The papers provide valuable insights into the development of greener and more sustainable chemical processes. [Extracted from the article]

Cu–Pd bimetallic catalysts were fabricated on carbon paper (CP) by the electrodeposition method via a dynamic hydrogen bubble template approach. At a potential of −1.2 V vs. RHE, the Faradaic efficiency (FE) of C2H4 could reach 45.2% with a current density of 17.4 mA cm−2 in an H-type electrolytic cell. Detailed studies suggest that the enhanced performance of Cu–Pd/CP was attributed mainly to the synergistic effect, low interfacial charge transfer resistance, and the 3D architecture of the catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of waste office paper (printed or photocopied) to bio-oil via low temperature (<200 °C) microwave-assisted pyrolysis, and its utilisation as an adhesive for aluminium-aluminium bonding are reported. The yields for the organic and aqueous phase bio-oil are 19% and 23%, respectively. The pyrolysis products were characterized by ICP-MS, ATR-IR, GC-MS and NMR to reveal broad categories of compounds indicative of sugars (carbohydrates), aromatics and carbonyl-containing moieties. Application of the organic phase bio-oil (70 mg) to Al plates (50 mm x 50 mm) followed by curing at different temperatures and time periods revealed that a maximum tensile strength of approximately 2300 N could be attained at 160 °C for 8 h cure. Also, at a fixed temperature, the tensile strength increased with increasing curing time. To gain an in-depth understanding of the adhesive properties of bio-oil, a liquid-liquid fractionation of the organic phase bio-oil was conducted. The 'acidic' fraction showed far better adhesion properties than the 'neutral' fraction with no bonding achieved for the aqueous fraction. A combination of the 'acidic' and 'neutral' fraction gave better adhesion, thus suggesting a possible synergistic or co-operative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," which features articles and papers on various topics related to sustainable chemistry. The journal aims to promote research for a greener and more sustainable future. The articles cover subjects such as safe and sustainable chemicals, materials preparation, electrochemistry, natural gas and hydrogen storage, and more. The given article, titled "Boosting urea synthesis in simulated flue gas electroreduction by adjusting W– Welectronic properties," discusses a study conducted by Xiaohui Yao, Changyan Zhu, Jie Zhou, Kunhao Zhang, Chunyi Sun, Man Dong, Guogang Shan, Zhuo Wu, Min Zhang, Xinlong Wang, and Zhongmin Su. The study focuses on enhancing urea synthesis in simulated flue gas electroreduction by adjusting the electronic properties of W– W. The article provides detailed information about the research methodology and findings. [Extracted from the article]

The document "Green Chemistry" published by the Royal Society of Chemistry features cutting-edge research on sustainable practices and innovations in the field of chemistry. The contents include critical reviews, tutorial reviews, communications, and papers covering a wide range of topics such as biochar systems, catalysts for biomass conversion, energy conversion, and storage, as well as biodegradable polymers and synthesis methods. The journal aims to connect communities, inspire new ideas, and promote environmentally friendly solutions in chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

The document titled "Contents list" is from the journal Green Chemistry, published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. The journal focuses on cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. The document provides a list of articles and papers featured in the journal's latest issue, covering a range of topics such as solar energy, catalysis, and synthesis methods. The journal aims to connect the world with the chemical sciences and reinvest its profits back into the chemistry community. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," which features cutting-edge research on sustainable practices. The journal covers a wide range of topics, including photoelectrocatalytic systems, cathode materials for batteries, green synthesis approaches, biotransformation of lignin, and valorization of food waste. It also includes tutorial reviews on hydrotropic solvent systems and thermo-/photo-catalysts, as well as communications and papers on various topics related to green chemistry. The journal aims to promote an open, green, and inclusive future. The document is a compilation of research papers that explore different aspects of green chemistry, providing valuable insights into sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights the articles and research papers included in the issue, covering topics such as waste valorization, plasticizers, noble metal recovery, bio-upcycling, CO2 reduction, and seaweed-based polysaccharides. The journal aims to promote cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. It features a range of articles on topics related to sustainable chemistry, including reviews on hydrogenation of amides, manganese oxide-based catalysts, and the design of depolymerizable polymers. The journal also includes tutorial reviews on topics such as electroreductive upgradation of biomass and green synthesis of hypercrosslinked polymers. Additionally, there are perspective articles and communications on various research topics in the field of green chemistry. The papers cover a range of topics related to environmentally friendly and sustainable chemical processes, providing insights into the development of greener and more efficient chemical processes. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights the articles and papers featured in the current issue, covering a range of topics related to sustainable chemistry and green technologies. The articles include research on bio-based polymers, nitrogen fixation strategies, carbon aerogels for energy storage, and the use of ionic liquids in new energy and biotechnologies. The journal aims to provide cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights the articles and research papers included in the issue, covering topics such as sustainable water treatment, lignocellulose pretreatment, and biomass valorization. The journal aims to promote cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights the articles and papers included in the current issue, covering a range of topics related to sustainable chemistry and green research. The articles discuss subjects such as catalytic depolymerization of plastics, lignin applications, and the design of bifunctional catalysts. The journal also offers information on training courses and events for professional development in the field of chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," which focuses on cutting-edge research aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the chemical industry. It covers a range of topics, including the role of fungal enzymes in pharmaceutical synthesis, carbon-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen production, and the recycling of fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The journal is published by the Royal Society of Chemistry and is available electronically. The document is a compilation of various research papers published in the journal, covering topics related to sustainable chemistry and green technologies, such as the synthesis of renewable building blocks, the destruction of organic pollutants, electrochemical reactions, and the recycling of waste materials. Each paper presents its own findings and research methods. [Extracted from the article]

A lack of renewable resources and their inefficient use is a major challenge facing the society. Lignin is a natural biopolymer obtained mainly as a by-product from the pulp- and paper-making industries, and is primarily burned to produce energy. However, interest for using lignin in more advanced applications has increased rapidly. In particular, lignin based nanoparticles could find potential use in functional surface coatings, nanoglue, drug delivery, and microfluidic devices. In this work, a straightforward method to produce lignin nanoparticles from waste lignin obtained from kraft pulping is introduced. Spherical lignin nanoparticles were obtained by dissolving softwood kraft lignin in tetrahydrofuran (THF) and subsequently introducing water into the system through dialysis. No chemical modification of lignin was needed. Water acts as a non-solvent reducing lignin's degrees of freedom causing the segregation of hydrophobic regions to compartments within the forming nanoparticles. The final size of the nanoparticles depended on the pre-dialysis concentration of dissolved lignin. The stability of the nanoparticle dispersion as a function of time, salt concentration and pH was studied. In pure water and at room temperature the lignin nanoparticle dispersion was stable for over two months, but a very low pH or high salt concentration induced aggregation. It was further demonstrated that the surface charge of the particles could be reversed and stable cationic lignin nanoparticles were produced by adsorption of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing demand for fossil fuel resources in modern society, attention is turning towards alternative sources. This paper firstly introduces the importance of the oxidation reaction of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and its widespread application in the field of biomass conversion. However, precise control over the selective oxidation of biomass-derived platform chemicals remains challenging, necessitating in-depth investigation into the mechanism of this oxidation process. Subsequently, the mechanism of the HMF oxidation reaction is discussed in detail, including the design and performance optimization of both traditional and novel catalysts, aiming to provide theoretical guidance and technical support for efficient and selective HMF oxidation. In the field of photocatalysis, strategies such as the introduction of photoresponsive catalysts, surface modification, and synergistic catalysis have been employed to enhance reaction rates and selectivity. In electrocatalysis, efficient conversion of HMF has been achieved through the modulation of catalyst structure and active sites. Meanwhile, photoelectrocatalysis hybrid systems, as emerging technologies integrating the advantages of both photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, demonstrate promising application prospects, with an overview of their research in HMF oxidation provided herein. Furthermore, the paper discusses the challenges faced by current selective HMF oxidation, including catalyst stability, selectivity, and product distribution, and proposes future research directions and prospects, including the design of multifunctional catalysts, optimization of reaction conditions, and in-depth exploration of catalytic mechanisms, to provide important references for achieving efficient biomass conversion. In summary, this paper systematically summarizes the latest research progress in selective photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and photoelectrocatalysis for HMF oxidation, and provides prospects for future development, aiming to offer references and insights for relevant research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose and its derivatives have shown significant potential as plastic replacement materials due to their outstanding properties. However, current research still faces challenges related to green synthesis, structural design, and multifunctionality. To address these issues, an innovative green eutectic solvent (ES) based on ethylcellulose (EC) and thymol (Thy) is proposed for the preparation of high-performance cellulose-based hydrophobic covalently crosslinked networks. EC and Thy can be prepared as a molecular solvent system in one step without the need for external solvents. Subsequently, co-monomers and chemically stable lithium salts are introduced into the homogeneous EC/Thy ES medium, resulting in the formation of highly transparent, mechanically tough, and ionically conductive cellulosic polymer films (CPFs) through in situ photopolymerization. Furthermore, the prepolymer achieves a precise replication of the complex microstructure of the natural rose surface with the help of stearic acid, imparting superhydrophobicity to the CPF. The prepared superhydrophobic CPF exhibits excellent self-cleaning ability, pressure responsiveness, and stable sensing performance under different humidity environments. The biomass-based eutectic strategy demonstrated in this paper presents a green and efficient method for preparing multifunctional cellulose-based materials with a wide range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring Earth-abundant and efficient electrocatalysts to replace Ir and Ru for the acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is essential to reduce the cost of clean hydrogen production. Here, we show that trace amounts of electronegative non-metallic element fluorine (F)-doped Co3O4 nanoneedles improve the activity and stability of Co3O4. The F-doped Co3O4 nanoneedles supported on carbon paper (F-Co3O4/CP) exhibit an overpotential of 350 mV at 10 mA cm-2 for the acidic OER. In addition, their performance remains consistent after continuous operation for 80 h. Detailed investigations reveal that introducing an anion promotes the enrichment of OH on the surface of Co3O4 and prevents acid corrosion, thereby enhancing the intrinsic OER activity and stability. Theoretical calculations further indicate that F doping can effectively improve electron transfer and optimize the energy barrier for the formation of *OOH intermediates, which significantly improves OER performance. This study provides guidance for designing efficient and stable non-noble metal acidic water oxidation catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent article in Green Chemistry highlights the development of a biodegradable and sustainable paper coating material. Traditional coating materials used in paper packaging contribute to plastic pollution, so researchers from KAIST and Yonsei University in South Korea have developed a boric acid-crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol coating that improves barrier properties and mechanical robustness without compromising biodegradability and biocompatibility. This advancement offers a greener solution for sustainable packaging. The article also includes information about the optimization of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation through a photo-enzymatic cascade process. [Extracted from the article]

This study shows a functional deep eutectic solvent (DES) employing choline chloride (ChCl) and glyoxylic acid (GA) for lignocellulose fractionation. This DES exhibited a higher pretreatment efficiency (92.15%) than that composed of ChCl and lactic acid (10.36%). Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations indicated that the ChCl : GA DES showed a higher total binding energy (ΔE) with lignin than the ChCl : LA DES, resulting in a higher dissolution of lignin. GA prevented lignin condensation during pretreatment. The stabilized lignin containing 69.39% β-O-4 linkages can be used for phenolic monomer production with a bio-oil yield of 59.60% and lignin-based sunscreen preparation with a SPF of 58.46. The cellulose residues with a mild pretreatment severity exhibited a high enzymatic saccharification yield of 91.99%. Meanwhile, an esterification reaction occurred between cellulose and GA during pretreatment. The inhibition of enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial growth enables the use of functional cellulose to produce antibacterial paper. Furthermore, 96.80% of the DES could be easily recycled and reused for biorefinery purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," which focuses on reducing the environmental impact of the chemical industry through non-toxic technologies. The journal includes tutorial reviews on topics like biomass energy and sustainable haircare, as well as critical reviews and communications on various research topics. Published by The Royal Society of Chemistry, the journal offers a compilation of research papers covering sustainable and environmentally friendly chemistry. Topics range from organic compound synthesis to photocatalytic reactions, plastic waste upcycling, and catalyst development. These papers provide valuable insights and advancements in the field of green chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

Materials based on cellulose are predicted to be of great importance in a sustainable society. However, for materials such as paper to replace materials with a higher ecological footprint, they need to be strong, ductile, provide a gas barrier, and, sometimes, also be transparent. Improved properties, or even novel properties, are also important for use outside the conventional markets. This paper describes how cellulose fibres partly derivatised to dialcohol cellulose can be used to fabricate high-density materials by conventional papermaking techniques that simultaneously display all the above-mentioned features. The materials produced were characterised with respect to X-ray diffraction, dynamic mechanical thermal behaviour, visual appearance, oxygen permeability and tensile properties. The highest degree of modification studied, resulted in a material with thermoplastic features, a tensile strength of 57 MPa, a strain-at-break of 44% and an oxygen permeability at 80% RH of 23 ml μm (m2 kPa 24 h)−1. At a thickness of 125 μm, these films have a total light transmittance of 78% (87% haze). However, by hot pressing the film for 2 min at 150 °C under a pressure of 16 MPa, and thereby increasing the density, the total transmittance increases to 89% (23% haze). The hot pressing can also be used to fuse individual pieces together, which is useful in many modern packaging applications. Altogether, this work shows how chemical modification of cellulose fibres can be used to induce novel properties and improve the range of application, and consequently provide an interesting bio-based material with a good potential to replace less sustainable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tannery solid waste (TSW) contains 70–90% collagen by weight. The rapid extraction of collagen while preserving its original and unique triple-helical conformation has proved challenging. In this paper, an ionic liquid-synergistic dissolution and regeneration (IL-SDR) method was developed based on a TBAH/DMSO/H2O ternary (TDH) solvent for the rapid recovery of collagen from TSW under mild conditions. A solubility of 10.25% TSW and a collagen recovery yield of 51.2% were achieved in 30 minutes at room temperature. The original triplet helical conformation and the molecular weight of the collagen product were retained, confirmed via FT-IR, circular dichroism, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight analysis. SEM was used to verify that dense and uniform pores could be formed within collagen by adjusting the DMSO content, and cytotoxicity and moisture retention tests demonstrated that the collagen produced via the IL-SDR process is comparable to natural collagen used in cosmetic and skincare applications. Moreover, the TDH solvent demonstrated excellent reproducibility across five cycles, achieving consistent solubility varying from 9.71% to 11.04%. EPR and 1H NMR showed that the OH– in TBAH induced the generation of DMSO˙ free radicals in the TDH solvent, and these radicals were indispensable for the dissolution of TSW. The DMSO content was positively correlated with the concentration of free radicals. A synergistic dissolution mechanism was proposed: DMSO˙ free radicals preferentially cleaved the terminal peptide chains, causing the collagen molecules to be exposed to DMSO. Subsequently, DMSO disrupted the original hydrogen bond network within the collagen molecules. Then, TBAH and DMSO formed hydrogen bonds with the collagen molecules, stabilizing the dissolved collagen and preventing the reformation of the hydrogen bond network between collagen molecules. This work provides an avenue for low-temperature and rapid dissolution of TSW, and reveals an in-depth, atypical dissolution mechanism for collagen-based materials during the IL-SDR process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It features articles on various topics related to sustainable chemistry, including catalytic production of 1,4-pentanediol from biomass, the application of ionic liquid systems in recycling lithium-ion batteries, and the synthesis of lactic acid and carbon dots using food waste and seashell waste. The journal aims to provide cutting-edge research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The design of efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts with steady capability has attracted much attention in the field of water splitting in recent years. In this paper, Ni2−xCoxP/CNFs (x = 0, 0.67, 1, 1.33 and 2), where the ultrafine Ni2−xCoxP nanoparticles are encapsulated in carbon nanofibers, are synthesized using a facile electrospinning method followed by thermal treatment. The space confinement by the carbon matrix with a high length-to-diameter ratio (>1000) and excellent conductivity produces ultrafine Ni2−xCoxP with abundant active sites. Moreover, engineering of Ni2−xCoxP/CNFs can induce electronic modulation and consequently optimize the adsorption of H on the electrocatalyst surface to promote HER performance, as well as to reduce the energy barrier of the potential-limiting step. The optimal Ni2−xCoxP/CNFs exhibit superior electrocatalytic performance with low overpotentials of about 271 mV for OER and about 118.76 mV for HER at 10 mA cm−2 with excellent long-term durability in 1.0 M KOH solutions, performing as one of the best non-noble-metal electrocatalysts so far. Furthermore, the two-electrode electrolyser delivers a high efficiency and remarkable long-term durability for overall water splitting. This work provides new insights into the development of nanofiber-structured electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reusing spent anodes is a pivotal step for recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, it proves challenging to completely eliminate Cu impurities from spent graphite (SG), which hinders the effective recycling of spent anodes. In this paper, a straightforward air oxidation method is proposed to directly upgrade spent anodes into stable CuO/C anodes by harnessing the inherent Cu impurities in spent anodes. The air oxidation process not only repairs the SG to some extent but also generates uniformly dispersed CuO nanoparticles, which chemically bind with the repaired graphite (RG) through Cu–O–C bonds. The specific discharge capacity of the CuO/RG anode can reach as high as 647 mA h g−1 even after 500 cycles (at 372 mA g−1 ). In addition, this program is found to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by ∼80% compared to previously reported CuO/C production programs. Clearly, this approach provides a new direction for large-scale recycling of spent LIBs and low-cost production of high-performance CuO/C anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing green analytical approaches has become a crucial trend in green chemistry. These approaches encourage direct analysis to avoid any sample treatment that involves energy and reagent consumption or the generation of waste. In this study, a green sensitive analytical workflow was developed for the direct analysis of anionic compounds via a charge inversion strategy using matrix-assisted ionization and a miniature mass spectrometer. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a representative category of emerging pollutants, were selected as model analytes for method development. An imidazolium-based germinal dicationic ionic liquid (DIL), 1,1-bis(3-methylimidazolium-1-yl) butylene difluoride ([C4(MIM)2]F2), was chosen as a charge donor to form positively charged complexes with the PFAS for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. Without any sample treatment, 1 μL of sample was loaded on a paper strip, followed by the addition of a mixture of 3-nitrobenzonitrile and [C4(MIM)2]F2. The adduct complexes were analyzed using a miniature mass spectrometer with tandem MS capability. The signal intensity was enhanced by up to two orders of magnitude in positive ion mode compared to negative ion mode without a DIL. The developed protocol was validated and satisfactory sensitivity was obtained, with limits of detection and quantitation ranging from 5 to 10 μg L−1. Recoveries ranging from 86.6% to 106.3% were achieved, with relative standard deviations between 3.5% and 9.3%. As indicated by three typical green analytical chemistry metric tools, this analytical procedure had a high degree of greenness. The developed protocol was applied to the analysis of real environmental and municipal water samples, demonstrating good potential for the rapid on-site analysis of anionic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal "Green Chemistry," published by The Royal Society of Chemistry. It highlights various articles and papers featured in the journal's latest issue, covering topics such as sustainable chemistry, electrocatalysis, and environmentally friendly synthesis methods. The journal aims to promote research for a greener and more sustainable future. [Extracted from the article]

The electrochemical reductive cleavage of the C–O bond in the lignin α-O-4 model compound benzyl phenyl ether (BPE) at room temperature was investigated using earth-abundant nickel as a catalyst in methanol. Experiments using a divided cell setup using either NiCl2·6H2O salt or pre-deposited Ni on a carbon paper cathode (Ni/CP) under an inert atmosphere revealed the essential role of freshly and uniformly deposited Ni0 on the electrode surface for the reductive, catalytic cleavage to yield phenol and toluene. To better understand the reaction mechanism, the surface morphology and composition of the Ni/CP electrode were investigated by SEM, XRD, and XPS. Additionally, the role of methanol as a proton donor was established, and electrochemical hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis (ECH) experiments of BPE with sterically hindered substituents revealed that the reaction mechanism shares similarities with Pd/C hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis chemistry. DFT calculations further supported this mechanistic route and were consistent with the experimental observations. Based on both experimental and calculation results, a mechanism including (1) the interaction of the benzylic side of BPE with the catalyst surface, (2) adsorbed hydrogen interacting with the benzylic carbon to induce C–O bond scission, and (3) proton transfer to the phenoxy anion from the methanol was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper reviews 47 Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) applied to chemical reactions. The selection of the evaluated articles was conducted with a systematic literature review methodology. The review arises from the need to define the best methods for developing LCAs of chemical processes at industrial scale. The authors go through the stages defined in ISO 14040 and 14044, identifying both the gaps and the best techniques used in all the reviewed papers. The main difficulty observed when developing LCAs of chemical reactions is the lack of data due to confidentiality issues in chemical companies. In addition, this data is commonly only available at the laboratory scale. Laboratory data is sometimes directly upscaled without further consideration. Even though, simulation software, advanced calculations benchmarks, pinch analysis and retrosynthetic analysis are the best methods to estimate and scale up the mass and energy balances in the Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) stage. The article discusses these upscale procedures, makes a deep analysis of each single LCA stage, and assesses how chemical process information is managed, which is a novelty regarding previous reviews of chemical reaction LCA. From the Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) methodologies, they should be standardized to enable the comparability between LCAs of the same product. Both the European Commission and the Life Cycle Initiative are making progress in this regard. Eventually, the ReCiPe is the most used methodology among the reviewed papers. Finally, the article proposes different analyses to be performed in the interpretation phase: i.e., projecting the energy mix foreseen for the years 2030 and 2050 in energy-intensive processes or including other sustainability vectors (economic and social) in cross-cutting projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]