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Paper chromatography is a low-cost and facile analytical method traditionally used to analyze hydrophilic substances. For the application to substances with lower polarity, we prepared a stationary phase based on filter paper modified with phenyl isocyanate (PI-FP), bearing phenyl carbamate moieties for hydrophobic, π-π, and electrostatic interactions. The preparation and chromatographic methods were established by selecting papers, comparing different chemical structures, optimizing the modification procedure, investigating eluents, and quantitatively parameterizing the separation behavior based on the character of the analytes. PI-FP exhibited better separation performance than esterified FPs and enabled chromatographic analysis of various dyes with both positive and negative clogP (calculated water-octanol partition coefficient). We also demonstrated an application of this system for a preparative separation of dyes using thread-like paper modified with PI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based packaging materials are promising alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. Paper-based packaging materials are candidates for improving food sustainability; however, paper has poor gas and water vapor barrier properties. In this study, entirely bio-based sodium caseinate (CasNa)-coated papers with two plasticizers, glycerol (GY) and sorbitol (SO), were prepared. The morphological and chemical structure, burst strength, tensile strength, elongation at break, air permeability, surface properties, and thermal stability of the pristine CasNa-, CasNa/GY-, and CasNa/SO-coated papers were evaluated. The use of GY and SO strongly affected the tensile strength, elongation at break, and air barrier of the CasNa/GY- and CasNa/SO-coated paper. The air barrier and flexibility of the CasNa/GY-coated papers were higher than those of the CasNa/SO-coated papers. Compared to SO, GY better coated and penetrated the CasNa matrix, which positively affected the chemical and morphological structure of the coating layer and the interaction between the coating layer and paper. Overall, CasNa/GY was superior to the CasNa/SO coating. CasNa/GY-coated papers may be a good alternative for packaging materials in the food, medical, and electronic sectors, which would promote sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Samples of papers artificially (2 to 60 days) and naturally (10, 45, and 56 years) aged were studied by the Py-GC/MS method to identify decomposition products. Possible reaction scenarios for cellulose degradation were developed. One of the degradation products is acetic acid, which can (auto)catalyze the cleavage of cellulose β(1→4)-glycosidic bonds of cellulose polymer chains. However, during 20 s of Py-GC/MS analysis, temperatures of up to 300 °C did not significantly increase or modify the formation of decomposition products of paper components. At 300 °C, the amount of several cellulose decomposition products increased regularly depending on the number of days of artificial aging and natural aging, demonstrated mainly by the generation of 2-furancarboxaldehyde, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and levoglucosan and its consecutive dehydration products. No correlation between the amount of lignin decomposition products and the time of aging was found when the pyrolysis was performed at 300 °C and 500 °C. Compounds present in the products of decomposition at 500 °C bear the imprint of the chemical composition of the sampled paper. Pyrograms taken at 300 °C using the Py-GC/MS method can give additional information on the changes in the chemical structure of paper during natural or artificial aging, mainly about the cleavage of β(1→4)-glycosidic bonds during aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aramid chopped fibers/polyphenylene sulfide (ACFs/PPS) composite paper exhibits great potential for application in several cutting‐edge areas because of their excellent comprehensive properties. However, the mechanism underlying thermal aging and the role it plays in the performance of ACF/PPS composite paper remain poorly characterized. Herein, we studied the change in the chemical structure of ACFs/PPS composite paper during thermal oxidative aging and investigated the correlation between the evolution of chromophore/auxochrome groups and the development of color appearance in the ACFs/PPS composite paper. Using the color space theory, we established a correlation model among the degrees of thermal aging, the evolution of color appearance, and the changes in the mechanical properties of ACFs/PPS composite paper. On the basis of this model, the degree of aging and the corresponding mechanical strength of ACFs/PPS composite paper under different conditions could be rapidly received by estimating the change in color factor only. This study sheds new light on elucidates and provides a method for the study of polymer thermal oxidative aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hygroscopicity affects the chemical and physical stabilities of paper-based historical relics. In this research, the moisture sorption behavior of naturally aged bamboo paper dating from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China, and artificially aged and untreated modern bamboo paper was investigated using dynamic vapor sorption analysis (DVS). The results were fitted by sorption models to analyze the regularities of changes in the moisture absorption of aged bamboo paper. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the chemical and physical structures of aged bamboo paper. It was found that untreated and aged bamboo paper showed similar moisture sorption isotherms at 25 °C, indicating that aging did not alter the sorption mechanism of paper. Guggenheim Anderson de Boer (GAB) and Hailwood Horrobin (H–H) models provided good fits to the experimental data and meaningful physical parameters regarding the effective sorption surface area (S GAB), monolayer water content (W 0), and multilayer water content (W s), showing that the S GAB , W 0 , and W s of naturally and artificially aged bamboo paper were decreased. Results of FTIR demonstrated that the levels of hydrophilic groups decreased, causing a reduction in the effective adsorption sites of naturally and artificially aged bamboo paper, which was the principal reason for a decrease in their hygroscopicity. The fiber structure damage of naturally and artificially aged bamboo paper was observed through microscopic morphology, which has different influences on the capillary adsorption of paper depending on the extent of degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the potential of coatings based on xylan derivatives and chitosan to provide barrier properties and antimicrobial protection for paper food packaging and also to substitute the synthetic materials currently used in the food packaging industry. Colloidal dispersions of xylan derivatives (hydrophobized xylan with alkyl ketene dimers—XyAKD—and acetylated xylan—XyAc) and a chitosan biopolymer (Ch) were applied as coatings in single and two successive layers on a paper substrate using a laboratory automatic film applicator. The assessment of the water and fatty compound barrier properties of coated paper samples showed differences in effectiveness among xylan derivatives and their combination with chitosan. Generally, xylan derivative coatings improved the barrier and antimicrobial features of coated papers compared with native xylan. However, important improvements were obtained by adding to the coating formula a chitosan biopolymer. Thus, the best barrier properties for water, water vapors, oils and greases were obtained for paper coated with the acetylated xylan and chitosan formula in a single layer, where values of 30 g/m2.day for the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), a 92.8° contact angle (CA) and a KIT rating of 8 were achieved. All coated paper samples exhibited the total inhibition of Bacillus sp. both after 24 and 48 h. Based on the obtained results in this study, one can conclude that the area of application of xylan hemicelluloses could be extended. Their utilization in appropriate chemical structures and combinations as coatings for paper can be a sustainable alternative for the food packaging industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, rose oil was encapsulated with stearic acid substituted polyvinyl alcohol macromolecule. In the first part of the study, stearic acid substituted polyvinyl alcohol macromolecule was synthesized and its chemical structure was elucidated by ATR-FTIR and ¹HNMR. Then, rose oil was encapsulated using this obtained polymer. The chemical structure of the obtained capsules was made by ATR-FTIR, and dimensional analysis was done by scanning electron microscope (SEM). After the obtained capsules, a paper coating formula was prepared and coated on 80 g/m² paper. The resulting scented papers were printed using the screen printing technique. The color, gloss, and deformation of the capsules on the surface of the printed and unprinted papers were determined by spectrophotometer, glossmeter and SEM. As a result, it was determined that the synthesized polymer could encapsulate the rose oil and the papers using these capsules could be printed without deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When obtaining environment-friendly hybrid resins made of a blend of Dammar natural resin, in a prevailing volume ratio, with epoxy resin, it is challenging to find alternatives for synthetic resins. Composite materials reinforced with waste paper and matrix made of epoxy resin or hybrid resin with a volume ratio of 60%, 70% and 80% Dammar were studied. All samples obtained have been submitted to tensile tests and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. The tensile response, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, elongation at break and the analysis of the fracture surface were determined. The damping properties of vibrations of bars in hybrid resins and in the composite materials under study were also examined. The mechanical properties of the four types of resins and of the composite materials were compared. The chemical composition for a hybrid resin specimen were obtained using the Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Energy, Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDS) analyzes.

Among plastic items, single‐use straws are particularly detrimental to marine ecosystems because such straws, including those made of poly(lactic acid) (PLA), are sharp and extremely slowly degradable in the ocean. While paper straws are promising alternatives, they exhibit hydration‐induced swelling even when coated with a non‐degradable plastic coating and promote effervescence (fizzing) in soft drinks owing to their surface heterogeneities. In this study, upgraded paper straw is coated with poly(butylene succinate) cellulose nanocrystal (PBS/CNC) composites. CNC increases adhesion to paper owing to their similar chemical structures, optimizes crystalline PBS spherulites through effective nucleation, and reinforces the matrix through its anisotropic and rigid features. The straws are not only anti‐fizzing when used with soft drinks owing to their homogeneous and seamless surface coatings, but also highly water‐resistant and tough owing to their watertight surfaces. All degradable components effectively decompose under aerobic composting and in the marine environment. This technology contributes to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrode material made by conversion/alloying reaction possesses a high capacity but suffers from serious volumetric variation and pulverization during electrochemical storage cycling of sodium ions. Herein, we designed the coralloid‐like CoP with N,P‐codoped carbon shell on carbon paper derived from a metal‐organic framework shell. The N,P‐codoped carbon shell not only keeps the structural integrity of the nanomaterial but also introduces vacancies on the electrode material to provide abundant coordination of unsaturated sites for sodium storage. The optimized coralloid‐like CoP with N,P‐codoped carbon shell on carbon paper delivers a high reversible capacity of 318.9 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 after 150 cycles. Even when the current density is 1000 mA g−1 after 1000 cycles, it still maintains a high discharge capacity of 191.2 mAh g−1. The electrochemical analysis reveals self‐standing hierarchical structure benefits to the chemical mass diffusion and electron conduction. This work provides a new strategy for the exploitation of advanced anode electrodes with a long life for sodium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The physical and chemical properties of PS and PC were studied systematically. • The reactivity of PC combustion reaction was significantly affected by PS. • PC:PS = 4:1 has the lowest combustion activation energy. • The Kissinger Akahira Sunose model shows a good fitting effect. The co-combustion reactivity and kinetics of petroleum coke (PC) and paper sludge-derived hydrochar (PS) were investigated via thermogravimetric analysis. The physical and chemical structure features were also systematically tested. The results show that the combustion process of PS could be divided into three stages, while for PC only one stage could be clarified. Due to high volatile content, developed pore structure and low carbon-order degree, the combustion reactivity of PS was higher than that of PC. Although the ignition property of the blends could be significantly improved by addition of PS, it changed little for the burnout temperature and as a result the combustion intensity was deteriorated. For the samples with addition of PS from 20 % to 80 %, the comprehensive combustion index decreased from 3.69 × 10-15 to 2.12 × 10-15. The Kissinger AkahiraSunose model-free method was used in the co-combustion reaction of PC and PS, and good fitting results were obtained. For different samples with varying addition of PS, the activation energies were in the range of 107.51–198.44 kJ/mol, with the lowest value obtained at 20 % of PS, which was also the optimum proportion for co-combustion of PC and PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercritical Impregnation methods are becoming popular in the development of food packaging materials. Bulk functional improvements of cellulose substrates using this method may be influenced by interfacial interactions between the impregnated solutes and cellulose. Hence, an interfacial adsorption kinetics study of solute molecules onto the substrate can provide insight on bulk property development, leading to an optimized packaging material with improved functionality. Paper substrates were impregnated with two food-grade waxes: Alkyl Ketene Dimer (AKD) and Carnauba Wax (CW). Hydrophobic development was monitored over a 3-week period. A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM-D) was used to determine interfacial characteristics and behavior of each wax with cellulose, and adsorption kinetics were quantified to compare the mass transfer processes of each wax at the interface. AKD significantly contributed to the substrate's hydrophobic development over time. CW generated mildly hydrophobic substrates only when heated. AKD strongly adhered to the cellulose fibers at the interface, and demonstrated a 3-stage kinetic adsorption process, tentatively assigned (i) diffusion through the solvent; (ii) diffusion through the substrate; and (iii) attachment onto the fibers. CW readily washed off the cellulose surface, demonstrating only the first adsorption process. The different chemical structures also impacted these behaviors, as did concentration and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that the working temperature is much higher in high‐voltage direct‐current (HVDC) convert transformers than in conventional AC transformers, the combination of thermally upgraded paper and natural ester might be a better choice to withstand high temperature in long‐term operation. This study compares the chemical structure, DC breakdown voltage, space charge and trap distribution of thermally upgraded paper aged in natural esters and mineral oil. The relationship between DC breakdown and accumulated charges was analyzed. Results show that the thermally upgraded paper aged in natural ester (NEI‐TUP) has a higher volume resistivity and DC breakdown voltage than that aged in mineral oil (MOI‐TUP). The NEI‐TUP group has a larger deep trap density than the MOI‐TUP group due to the chemical structure of natural ester. The larger deep trap density could contribute to the lower charge accumulation quantity and higher DC breakdown voltage. The thermally upgraded paper immersed in natural ester presents better insulation capability under thermal and DC electrical stress than that immersed in conventional mineral oil. This research indicated that the combination of thermally upgraded paper and natural ester might be a potential alternative for the mineral oil immersed paper in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper deals with a new application of polyaniline (PAn) and polypyrrole (PPy) synthesized chemically. Coated on sawdust via cast method the polypyrrole/sawdust (PPy/SD) and polyaniline/sawdust (PAn/SD) were used as effective adsorbents for the removal of heavy metals, anions, color and COD (chemical oxygen demand) from mill paper wastewater. The products were investigated in terms of morphology and chemical structure using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. It was found that PPy/SD and PAn/SD are very simple to prepare and can be used as effective adsorbents in the removal of anions, heavy metals, color and COD from paper mill wastewater. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this study is to produce a lavender oil capsules with triblock copolymer and to use these capsules for providing scented paper. Thus, polyethylene oxide‐polypropylene glycol‐polyethylene oxide (PEO‐b‐PPG‐b‐PEO) ABA‐type block copolymer was synthesized by means of Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and the chemical structure of PEO‐b‐PPG‐b‐PEO was characterized by ATR‐FTIR and 1H‐NMR. Moreover, block ratio of the PEO‐b‐PPG‐b‐PEO was identified with 1H‐NMR. Lavender oil was encapsulated in the polymer by micellization of interactions between hydrophilic‐lipophilic‐hydrophilic polymer and oil. These interactions include lavender oil and lipophilic block interaction and oil‐hydrophilic group repulsion. In addition, hydrophilic groups interacted with water to keep the micelles suspended. The critical micelle concentration and size of the micelles were analysed with SEM. Decomposition of capsules was determined by UV spectroscopy with respect to pH change. Paper coating formulations were prepared with fragrant capsules and coated on paper with laboratory‐type coating machine. The colour and gloss of obtained papers were determined by spectrophotometer and glossmeter. As a result, PEO‐b‐PPG‐b‐PEO polymer can be used to encapsulate lavender oil, and the resulting capsules have functioned without degradation in the paper coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate a potential biorefinery process to realize the high utilization of Camellia oleifera shell (COS), which is an agricultural by-product mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Before treatment by steam explosion, the COS was impregnated with water, 3.0 wt% NaOH solution, or 3.0 wt% H2SO4 solution. The morphological structure and chemical composition of the steam-exploded COS pulp were investigated. The results indicated that the impregnation treatments increased the cellulose content of the steam-exploded COS pulp and decreased the hemicellulose and lignin content. The morphology of steam-exploded COS fiber was short, coarse and stiff. Hydrophobic and colorful handsheets were fabricated by mixing proportional bleached softwood fiber. This study demonstrated that COS was a potential material for the papermaking industry, and the combination of water impregnation and steam explosion treatment for COS was a good pulp process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper manufacturers are constantly looking for new methods to improve coated paper properties. Pigments are encountered in paper coatings to add new functions. For example, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and talc are considered among the best-known pigments used in paper coating and manufacturing due to their whiteness and other beneficial properties. Nevertheless, talc has a weak dispersion during which its particles agglomerate, and this disadvantage needs to be overcome before its application which means higher cost. Therefore, in this work, a core–shell technique is used to modify the talc surface and enhance its dispersion in order to promote its use in improving the properties of the paper. Core–shell pigments are composed of a thin shell of (nano- and micronized) titanium dioxide precipitated on talc particles. These prepared talc/TiO2 core–shell pigments were characterized using various techniques such as XRF, SEM, and TEM, and then they were incorporated in paper coatings to evaluate their effect on the different properties of the coated papers. The results showed that nano-talc/TiO2 with the obtained unique chemical and morphological structure has improved the physical, mechanical, and optical properties of the coated papers besides improving their antimicrobial activity, especially when compared to papers coated with micronized talc/TiO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SB compounds were synthesized from (para, ortho, meta)-phenylenediamine as a cross-linking agent through vanillin. The chemical structure of the formed SB complexes is confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. Among the three complexes, para-phenylenediamine (p-SB), possessing a stable resonance structure with the lowest steric repulsion, was obtained in the highest yield of 87%. Hence, the present work focused on reducing the brittle behavior and improving the antimicrobial activity of PLA by reacting it with p-SB. FT-IR investigation revealed the existence of an intermolecular hydrogen bonding between PLA and SB, which led to an increased toughness in the PLA–p-SB complex. This is further confirmed through SEM analysis. The tensile and contact angle measurements determined an improvement in mechanical properties and hydrophobic nature of the PLA–p-SB film. DSC results demonstrated an increase in flexibility, which indicated a 10 °C reduction in glass transition temperature (Tg) of PLA–p-SB films. The antimicrobial activity of the PLA–p-SB films had a maximum of 15 mm zone of inhibition, which was found to be more effective than the neat PLA film. PLA–p-SB coating on Kraft paper showed improved mechanical and barrier properties than neat PLA coatings and could be tried as a possible replacement for conventional synthetic packaging materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical structure of organic matter (OM) pools in the 2–1-mm water-stable macroaggregates isolated from air-dry aggregates of the same size in arable horizons of noneroded, eroded, and depositional agrochernozems was studied with solid-state 13C-NMR spectroscopy. The changes in their chemical structure in the denudation–accumulative landscape are assessed. The overwhelming majority of water-stable macroaggregates in the erosional zone are newly formed due to dynamic replacement of OM in situ, which is clearly demonstrated by the integral chemical structure indicators in all OM pools in macroaggregates. Analytical data suggest the prevalent transport of newly formed macroaggregates. The destruction of macroaggregates during the transport phase is accompanied by the release of previously physically protected aggregated OM, which undergoes partial mineralization. Note that its most labile (hydrolyzable) part is predominately mineralized, whereas its stable part remains weakly changed or intact. Mineral-associated OM (clay and residue) weakly changes or does not change at all, retaining relative freshness, which indirectly suggests the prevalent migration of newly formed macroaggregates from the erosional zone. A greater degree of freshness of LFfr (free OM) in macroaggregates of depositional agrochernozem results from the abundance of fresh crop residues of the depositional zone together with the residues transported from the erosional zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper‐based microfluidics devices can create a new healthcare model. Cellulose is carbohydrate polymer biocompatible and hydrophilic. These characteristics enhance the development of user‐friendly diagnostic devices, but the link between paper manufacturing process and performance of the devices is still unclear. Previous studies focused on either commercial papers or lab papers from wood‐cellulose fibers, with different basis‐weight. This work introduces the effect of refining process and lab paper from nonwood‐cellulose fibers, focusing on sisal fibers to overcome the aforementioned challenge. Structural characteristics of paper, such as basis‐weight and degree of refining, are optimized and correlated with blood typing test resolution. Unrefined sisal paper of 50 g/m2 and 100 g/m2 basis‐weight exhibit a higher gray intensity level than refined paper, and also maximal capillary rise and a pore size suitable for blood grouping tests. Two different blood types were evaluated with results consistent with the traditional methods, testifying the usefulness of this methodology. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1533–1541, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achyranthes bidentata Blume is a water-soluble fructan extracted from Achyranthes bidentata Blume root. It is mainly composed of three monosaccharides, glucose, mannose and fructose. Achyranthes bidentata Blume polysaccharide has many biological functions, such as improving immunity, enhancing antioxidant capacity and maintaining intestinal flora balance, etc., and has high application and research value in livestock and poultry production. The paper introduces the chemical structure and extraction technology of Achyranthes bidentata Blume polysaccharide, summarizes the biological function of Achyranthes bidentata Blume polysaccharide, analyzes the research progress of its application in animal production, to provide reference for further popularization of Achyranthes bidentata Blume polysaccharide in animal production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cationic blocked waterborne polyurethane (CBWPU) as paper strength agent was prepared by the reaction of N-[(1,1-dimethyl-2-acetyl)ethyl]-β-dihydroxyethylamino propanamide(DDP), isophorone diisocyanate(IPDI), polycaprolactone glycol(PCL) and bisphenol A, with imidazole as blocking agent and N-methyldiethanolamine as hydrophilic chain-extending agent. Effects of the blocked ratio and the dosage of CBWPU on the physical properties of the treated paper were studied. The chemical structure of CBWPU and the surface morphology of the paper surface are characterized by Fourier transform infared spectrometer(FT-IR) spectra and scanning electron microscopy(SEM). The results show that the paper strength, especially the wet tensile index and the wet strength of paper can be obviously improved with the increasing of the blocked ratio and the dosage of CBWPU. FT-IR result shows that structures of tertiary amine group, imidazole ring and urethane group are found in CBWPU molecular structure. SEM obsevation of the treated paper reveals that the exiestence of a lot of filamentous materials and films, which can improve the crosslinking between fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanins, a significant subclass of polyphenols, are prevalent across various plant species. Known for their vibrant colors, which make them desirable as natural pigments, anthocyanins have also garnered attention for their diverse biological activities, leading to their widespread use in food processing and supplement development. However, their structural instability poses a challenge, as it directly impacts their bioavailability and, consequently, their nutritional efficacy. This review paper delves into the chemical structure and food sources of anthocyanins and examines strategies to enhance their stability and bioavailability, particularly through improved understanding of their digestion and absorption in the human body. Additionally, it explores the broad spectrum of anthocyanins’ biological activities, including their antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anticancer, cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, analyzing these properties from a mechanistic perspective. Factors such as pH, temperature, light exposure, solvent interactions, and metal ions are known to negatively affect anthocyanin stability. Thus, future research should prioritize processing techniques that can preserve their structure more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this work, we report a new characterization method using fluorescent cellulose nanofibrils to analyze retention and loss rates in the papermaking process. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) were isolated from chemical pulp by enzymatic pretreatment and used as a strengthening additive in sheet forming. The aim of this paper was to investigate its effects on flocculation, retention and loss rate and the physical and mechanical properties. CNF was subjected to fluorescent labeling with RBITC (Rhodamine B isothiocyanate), and the retention of fluorescent cellulose nanofibrils (FCNF) was analyzed by elemental analysis and fluorescence intensity. The retention and loss rate of the FCNF decreased with increasing the addition of FCNF. Laser Confocal Scanning Microscopy (LCSM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images confirmed that FCNF can be evenly distributed in the paper. A thorough investigation of the relation between the retention rate and papersheet performance was conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common experience with rotting wooden buildings demonstrates that fragmentation is a necessary natural process during biodegradation. In analogy, the loss of structural integrity of biodegradable plastics during biodegradation produces interim microplastic fragments. It is currently not known which parameters govern fragmentation kinetics: chemical structure, physical shape, and composite layers, or composting conditions may all be relevant. Here we investigated the influence of physical shape on the fragmentation of a polyester blend during laboratory tests simulating industrial composting. Methods previously validated on micronized granules as model shape were applied to shapes that better represent consumer products, such as micronized thin films and shredded plastic-coated paper cups. The peak interim number of detected fragments, which are between 3 and 2000 µm, ranked highest for micronized films, lower for micronized plastic granules, and even lower for coated paper cups. The layered structure of polyester on cellulose may thus have stabilized the biodegrading polyester compound against fragmentation. For thin films, fragment counts dissipated with halftime of 2.5 days, and less than 10–8% of the initially added polyester mass was detected in fragments between 3 and 25 µm at the last sampling time point. The physical shape and multilayer structure of the polymer-containing product were found to be decisive for fragmentation kinetics, indicating that tests on micronized polymer granules might not be representative of the release mechanism of fragments from consumer products containing plastic coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PtBA) bruhes were successfully grafted on the cellulose filter papers via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Then the grafting PtBA brushes were transferred into poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) in the presence of trifluoroactic acid (TFA), which can form chelate complexes with Ag+. The Ag+ was reduced in situ to obtain the silver nanoparticles decorated cellulose filter papers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the chemical structure of the resulting product. The morphologies of the filter paper at different stages of surface modification were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The silver nanoparticles decorated filter paper performed good antibacterial ability against E. coli as compared with the original filter paper and PAA modified filter paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based materials offer tremendous contributions by replacing conventional fossil-based products for a more sustainable society. The aim of the current study was to study the effect of crosslinked starch (CST) and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) on the properties of cellulose foam papers prepared by compression molding. Several experimental techniques were applied to characterize prepared foam materials, including SEM, contact angle, thermogravimetric, mechanical, and barrier analysis. The chemical structure of the foam papers were analyzed using FTIR and XRD spectroscopy. The crystallinity of the foam papers increased from 75.8% for cellulose foam papers to 79.3% for CST/PVA reinforced cellulose foam papers. The tensile test results indicated that the addition of CST/PVA improved the mechanical properties of the foam papers. The tensile strength increased from 0.9 MPa for neat cellulose foam to 9.9 MPa for the CST/PVA reinforced cellulose foam papers. Therefore, the materials developed in this work can be a viable ecological alternative to replace the non-biodegradable polystyrene foam trays used in single-used food packaging containers. [Display omitted] • Foam papers based on cellulose and CST/PVA were produced using compression molding. • The addition of CST/PVA improved the mechanical performance of the cellulose matrix by reducing the pore sizes. • The dispersed CST/PVA addition cooperated to improve the cellulose matrix's crystallinity, thermal, and barrier properties. • Developed foam papers could be used for packaging dry foods in supermarkets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the most abundant natural polymers in nature, polysaccharides have the potential to replace petroleum-based polymers that are difficult to degrade in paper coatings. Polysaccharide molecules have a large number of hydroxyl groups that can bind strongly with paper fibers through hydrogen bonds. Chemical modification can also effectively improve the mechanical, barrier, and hydrophobic properties of polysaccharide-based coating layers and thus can further improve the related properties of coated paper. Polysaccharides can also give paper additional functional properties by dispersing and adhering functional fillers, e.g., conductive particles, catalytic particles or antimicrobial chemicals, onto paper surface. Based on these, this paper reviews the application of natural polysaccharides, such as cellulose, hemicellulose, starch, chitosan, and sodium alginate, and their derivatives in paper coatings. This paper analyzes the improvements and influences of chemical structures and properties of polysaccharides on the mechanical, barrier, and hydrophobic properties of coated paper. This paper also summarizes the researches where polysaccharides are used as the adhesives to adhere inorganic or functional fillers onto paper surface to endow paper with great surface properties or special functions such as conductivity, catalytic, antibiotic, and fluorescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The New Journal of Chemistry, published by The Royal Society of Chemistry and the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, focuses on new directions in chemistry. This document is a contents list for the journal, providing information about the ISSN, cover image, and a list of communications and papers featured in the issue. The papers cover a range of topics including lanthanum capture, corrosion inhibition, supercapacitor applications, catalysis, and nanocomposites. Each paper explores a specific scientific concept or mechanism, offering valuable insights into various fields of research. The document also mentions other journals related to energy research and sustainable energy technologies. [Extracted from the article]

The release of harmful volatiles, such as formaldehyde, is a major issue of the chemical modification of wood that limits the utilization of the modified wood in indoor environment. In this study, glucose (Glc) was activated with Fenton's reagent under various conditions and the chemical structure of the activated Glc was characterized. Also, the reactivity of the activated Glc toward filter paper as a wood model was evaluated. The results show that the H2O2 concentration controlled the activation ratio of Glc. Additionally, the Fe(II) concentration and activation temperature determined mainly the oxidation reaction rate. The Fenton reaction in an acidic solution resulted in higher activation efficacy of Glc and better fixation in the filter paper, compared to the reaction in an alkaline solution. The Glc cannot be fixed in the filter paper, but the activated Glc exhibited a fixation ratio of up to 48.2% due to the formation of carboxyl and aldehyde groups, as evidenced by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). It was demonstrated that activation of Glc with the Fenton's reagent is a feasible and eco-friendly approach and the activated products have a high potential for wood modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vanadium oxide has attracted interest for energy storage applications due to its high theoretical capacitance and stable layered structure. The low electronic conductivity, of V2O5 necessitates combining with conducting materials, typically carbon. However combining with conductive carbon materials may require binders, which compromise the active surface. In this study, V2O5 nanowire (VNWs)–graphene composite flexible paper electrodes were prepared without using binders. Graphene introduces conductivity and electric double layer capacitance (EDLC) to the composite. Graphene sheets were prepared using an alkaline deoxygenation process (hGO), which is a green alternative to traditional hydrazine reduction. Coin cell type supercapacitors were assembled using the hGO–VNW paper electrodes as the anode and spectracarb fiber cloth as the cathode in a two-electrode cell configuration. Electrochemical studies for different compositions of VNWs on hGO are reported. The composite electrode hGO–VNW120, showed balanced EDL and pseudocapacitance as well as an energy density of 38.8 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 455 W kg−1. The maximum power density of 3.0 kW kg−1 was delivered at a constant current discharge rate of 5.5 A g−1. The device prepared using hGO–VNW120 anode showed a specific capacitance of 80 F g−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Series of fiber cross-linking cationic latexes containing both epoxy and quaternary ammonium groups were synthesized in the presence of styrene/butyl acrylate/steary methacrylate/dimethyl amino ethyl methacrylate/epichlorohydrin (SBSDE). The chemical structure and composition of SBSDE were confirmed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum (1H NMR), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analyses. Latexes were subsequently used as sizing agents and surface properties (water resistance, surface strength, burst strength, whiteness, and tensile strength) of paper were examined and compared. Results revealed that SBSDE was a potential candidate for emulsion polymerization. Monomer ratio, initiator type, and SBSDE content determined the properties of latexes and strongly affected the sizing performance. The superior surface sizing agent was obtained by using 2,2-azobisisobutyronitrile as the initiator, when the concentration of SBSDE was 8.5wt%, the butyl acrylate (BA)/styrene (St) ratio was 0.85. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fabrication process of anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) on a paper-based substrate is challenging because the use of a highly economical, conformable and ecological substrate. This process is based on a simple, cost-effective, self-ordering anodization of aluminium, which yields a vertically aligned and a highly ordered nanoporous structure. The manufacturing process on a flexible substrate with the use of phosphoric acid is described, and a capacitive sensor produced on this layer is investigated versus the humidity concentration and the frequency. The AAO morphology and the structure obtained were analysed, and the electrical properties of the sensing layer were investigated, using a 4192A LF network analyser in a climatic chamber. The surface conduction mechanism and the effect of humidity on the dielectric properties of a porous anodic aluminium oxide are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]