Search

This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic cyclic fatigue resistance of Reciproc Blue files subjected to brushing motion. Twenty Reciproc Blue files (R25, VDW, Munich, Germany) were employed for chemical-mechanical preparation in root canals of 3D printed replicas of mandibular molars. The instruments were divided into two groups (n = 10): Group brushing motion, instrumentation with brushing motions; Group without brushing motion , instrumentation without brushing motions. Subsequently, the same instruments underwent cyclic fatigue testing using artificial canals consisting of a stainless-steel plate and an apical segment with a 45° curvature. Data regarding the time to fracture, number of cycles to fracture, and length of the fractured fragment were collected and subjected to statistical analysis using the t-test or Mann-Whitney test, with a significance level of 5%. Additionally, the fractured fragments were examined under a scanning electron microscope. No statistical differences were observed between the groups in terms of time to fracture (P <.05), number of cycles to fracture (P <.05) and length of the fractured fragment (P <.05). The brushing motion did not affect the dynamic cyclic fatigue resistance of Reciproc Blue files. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work presents the high-temperature wettability researches carried out during glass-metal sealing for high-alumina glass and 304 stainless steel. And we explore the factors of holding time, temperature, roughness and oxide layer on wettability. The droplet diameter was measured by microscope after wetting and calculated the wetting angle. In order to analyze the elemental composition, chemical composition and microstructure of wetting interface, revealing relationship between contact angle and wetting interface, we explore it with the help of scanning electron microscope and x-ray energy spectrum. The experimental results show that the contact angle between glass and stainless steel decreases with an increase in temperature. It appears a decrease in wetting angle with temperature increasing from 1000 to 1090 °C. When the holding time is extended from 10 to 40 min, the corresponding wetting angle gradually decreases, and the wetting process approaches equilibrium finally. Moreover, the halo around the glass keeps getting bigger. The effect of stainless steel surface roughness on wettability angle has no obvious law. The glass has better wettability on the oxidized surface of stainless steel after pre-oxidation and laser surface melting. Therefore, in order to enhance the wettability of glass and stainless steel, we properly increase the heat preservation temperature and time. Besides, surface oxide layer of stainless steel can also improve the wettability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser shock peening (LSP) is a novel non-contact surface modification technique to enhance the corrosion and compression behavior of stainless steel 308L (SS308L) material for a cryogenic application. SS308L is commonly used as a weld filler, weld electrode and cryogenic environment due to its low carbon content and good mechanical and high corrosion resistance properties. In this present study, wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) has been utilized to manufactured SS308L material and studied the compression, corrosion, wettability and surface properties of the material. Further, the nanosecond laser shock peening has been utilized to modify the additive-manufactured SS308L surface and mechanical properties. From the experimental results, it has been observed that the uni-directional flow path (UDFP) deposition has better corrosion resistance wettability and surface finish than the bi-directional flow path (BDFP) deposition on wire-arc additive-manufactured SS308L material due to its more uniform microstructure and smoother surface finish. In addition, the post-processing treatment (LSP) of SS308L materials has improved the compressive strength of additive-manufactured SS308L material with 20.6 and 15.9% as compared to UDFP and BDFP due to grain surface refinement and increases in dislocation density. The corrosion rate of LSP-treated materials was reduced by 20.7% compared to the UDFP materials due to the higher corrosion potential and lower corrosion current density. The higher surface roughness has produced better passive film formation to enhanced corrosion resistance in the UDFP with LSP. Finally, the microstructure and chemical composition have been analyzed using scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of pre-tensile deformation at different directions on the corrosion properties of AZ31 rolled sheet has been investigated. Uniaxial tensile test with the strain of 6% has been carried out at angles of 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° with rolling direction (RD), respectively. The corrosion behavior of specimens with different deformation directions in 3.5% NaCl solution and 8.5% Na2SO4 solution was measured by immersion test, potentiodynamic polarization method and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. After immersion tests, the surface characteristics of various specimens were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results showed that the tensile directions had a significant influence on the corrosion behavior. With the increase of the angle between tensile direction and RD, the hydrogen evolution rate in the 3.5% NaCl increased first and then decreased. The turning point was A45 specimen with the minimum value of 2.1 mm/y. The similar trends were also observed in the 8.5% Na2SO4 solution. In electrochemical testing, the A45 specimen exhibited the best corrosion resistance with the largest diameter of the impedance arc and lowest self-corrosion current. The further the angle of the specimen deviated from 45° direction, the lower corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo fibres, which are widely regarded as a contemporary environmentally sustainable resource, have been utilised in various industries including construction materials and packaging sectors. Malaysia possesses a diverse array of bamboo species, rendering it a significant resource for exploration. Five out of the 69 bamboo species discovered in Malaysia were selected for their suitability and availability in the pulp and paper industry, considering properties such as high cellulose content and long fibers. The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the morphological, physiochemical, thermal, and chemical properties of five specific bamboo species that are often found in Malaysia: Gigantochloa scortechinii (GS), Gigantochloa wrayi (GW), Gigantochloa levis (GL), Schizostachyum grande (SG) and Dendrocalamus asper (DA). Selected from a pool of 69 species based on their availability, these various types of bamboo were subjected to analysis using advanced scientific techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, a chemical composition study was performed to clarify the presence of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and ash in all five species. By employing various analytical methodologies, this study investigates and records the properties offered by the bamboo species, providing a significant contribution to the comprehension and knowledge of their potential applications across diverse disciplines. This holds relevance as all five bamboo species are readily available but remain underutilized for further applications in various fields especially in packaging industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Engineering (17264073) is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Research on the observation of nutrient release rates from slow-release and regular fertilizers combined with the percolation rate in the soil is scarce. This work aims to observe potassium and phosphate release behavior from slow-release and regular fertilizer, followed by the percolation of that nutrient in the soil. The characteristics of the soil were analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The concentration of potassium and phosphate in soil is analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis), respectively. The release rate of nutrients from slow-release fertilizer is 6 to 8 times slower than regular fertilizer. Meanwhile, the rate of nutrients released from slow-release and regular fertilizer followed by soil percolation matches the quadratic equation. Potassium adsorption on the soil surface is significantly higher than that of potassium. The negativity of soil polarity contributed to the high level of potassium adsorption on soil particle surfaces. The low phosphate adsorption capability of magnetite and the negativity of soil polarity contributed to the soil's low phosphate adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, nanocellulose aqueous dispersions were studied as a bio-inspired consolidating agent for the recovery and conservation of ancient wood and compared with two of the most used traditional consolidants: the synthetic resins Paraloid B-72 and Regalrez 1126. The morphology of crystalline nanocellulose (CNC), determined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), presents with a rod-like shape, with a size ranging between 15 and 30 nm in width. Chemical characterization performed using the Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) technique provides information on surface modifications, in this case, demonstrating the presence of only the characteristic peaks of nanocellulose. Moreover, conductometric, pH, and dry matter measurements were carried out, showing also in this case values perfectly conforming to what is found in the literature. The treated wood samples were observed under an optical microscope in reflected light and under a scanning electron microscope to determine, respectively, the damage caused by xylophages and the morphology of the treated surfaces. The images acquired show the greater similarity of the surfaces treated with nanocellulose to untreated wood, compared with other consolidating agents. Finally, a colorimetric analysis of these samples was also carried out before and after a first consolidation treatment, and after a second treatment carried out on the same samples three years later. The samples treated with CNC appeared very homogeneous and uniform, without alterations in their final color appearance, compared to other traditional synthetic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastic polymer composite materials possess physical properties such as softness, durability, and heat preservation, making them suitable for designing flexible, snug, and highly ductile devices. While polymers are generally electrical insulators, they can become electrically conductive when doped with carbon powder. Carbon can strongly interact with polymers, enabling the composites to exhibit electrical conductivity through this adsorption process. By heating and melting the polymer and incorporating thin but heavily concentrated carbon powder, these composites can achieve electrical properties similar to those of conductors or semiconductors. This study examines the adsorption and electrical properties of elastic polymer composite materials, focusing on aspects such as resistance temperature characteristics and conductivity. The results indicate that electrically conductive elastic polymers have potential applications in electrothermal devices, thermostatic control systems, sensors, and variable resistors. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is employed to analyze the material's structure for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, cold plasma treatments are employed to modify peanuts. This study systematically investigates the effects of various plasma treatment conditions, including power, duration, and gas type, on the microstructure of peanut seed coats and embryos. Observations under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) reveal that as plasma treatment power increases from 100 W to 500 W, the etching level of peanut seed coats significantly intensifies, surface roughness deepens, and concavities become more pronounced. Additionally, micro-pores on the seed coat gradually enlarge and form cracks. Specifically, when the plasma treatment is set at 200 W for 60 s, the oxygen (O2) treatment group shows interconnected cracks on the peanut seed coat surface, with lipid particles exuding and protein particles and polymers decomposing. In contrast, the helium (He) treatment group displays clear cell structures and deep grooves, with no noticeable lipid particles exuding around surface cracks. The argon (Ar) treatment group exhibits a distinct rectangular cell structure with clear boundaries, and although surface cracks form, only a few protein particles escape from the cracks. The embryo surface structure becomes looser after plasma treatment, leading to the disintegration of lipid particles, protein particles, and polymers, affecting the fusion and migration of large and small lipid bodies within the peanut's internal structure. Increasing treatment duration intensifies the etching phenomenon, resulting in more lipid particles exuding, which indicates a positive correlation between lipid particles exuding and treatment duration. This study sheds light on the mechanisms underlying changes in peanut microstructure due to cold plasma treatment, providing scientific evidence for improving peanut quality, enhancing oil extraction efficiency, and optimizing food processing techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a dental material often used in clinical practice. However, its use is limited due to its drawbacks. Natural resources such as propolis have been used to mainly enhance GIC's antibacterial properties, but other properties attributed to this enhancement also require evaluation. Purpose: The study aims to evaluate the surface hardness, the surface roughness, and the water absorption of GIC containing ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) from Trigona spp. Methods: Samples in this study were divided into four groups: GIC (control group); GIC + 25% EEP; GIC + 30% EEP; and GIC + 35% EEP. Surface roughness was measured using a surface roughness tester. Surface hardness was measured using a micro-Vickers hardness tester. Water absorption was measured by weighing the samples before and after immersion in distilled water. Surface characterization was carried out using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Data was statistically analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test and one-way variance analysis along with the post-hoc Tukey's test to determine significant differences between all four samples. Results: The statistical test showed significant differences in surface hardness and surface roughness between the control group and the GIC + EEP group. However, the test demonstrated no significant differences in water absorption between the control group and the GIC + EEP group. Conclusion: The addition of EEP to conventional GIC can affect its physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selected crystals of natural K-bearing tourmalines, extracted from a quartzofeldspathic rock from the Kumdy-Kol microdiamond deposit (an ultrahigh-pressure region of Kokchetav Massif, northern Kazakhstan), were characterized using a scanning electron microscope, an electron microprobe and single-crystal X-ray diffraction to investigate the impact of K uptake on the tourmaline structure. All the studied crystals belong to the maruyamaite–oxy-dravite/dravite compositional field, with K contents ranging from 0.03 to 0.47 apfu (atoms per formula unit), and contain a minor fluor-uvite component that increases towards oxy-dravite and dravite. The compositional variability of our samples can be expressed as a sequence of substitutions ranging from maruyamaite to oxy-dravite, dravite and fluor-uvite (or vice versa). Specifically, the substitutions that lead from maruyamaite to oxy-dravite to dravite are (1) X K + Al TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O and (2) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH, respectively. Conversely, the substitutions that lead from oxy-dravite to dravite to fluor-uvite are (1) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH and (2) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH ↔ X Ca + Mg TOT + O1 F, respectively. By analysing the difference between the bond valence sum and mean formal charge at the X site, we show that an increase in the K content (K > 0.21 apfu) results in the compression of X –O bonds (overbonded cation). Conversely, lower K contents lead to the stretching of the bonds (underbonded cation). Compared to the K-dominant analogues with Z FeO 6 povondraite-type framework, K-bearing tourmalines with a smaller Z AlO 6 framework such as maruyamaite should only be stable at higher-pressure conditions, as pressure is necessary to squeeze the relatively large K cation into the tighter X cavity. In both cases, the essential condition for the formation of K-dominant tourmalines is the extremely high K activity in the crystallization fluid. The K-tourmaline from the Kokchetav Massif may have crystallized under high-pressure (HP) conditions, with an upper limit between 3.5–7 GPa, during retrograde metamorphism following the ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) metamorphic peak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this investigation, composites consisting of polypyrrole (PPy), polyaniline (PAN), and sodium alginate combined with rice husk (RH) biomass were fabricated, utilizing them as adsorbents for naphthalene. The optimization of key process variables, including pH, pesticide concentration, composite dosage, contact time, and temperature were systematically undertaken to enhance the removal efficiency of naphthalene. Notably, the composites exhibited promising efficacy in adsorbing naphthalene, with native rice husk and PPy/RH (at pH 4), PAN/RH (at pH 5), and Na-alginate/RH (at pH 6) displaying the highest removal rates. Optimized conditions for composite dosage, temperature, and contact time were determined as 0.05 g, 30 °C, and 90 min, respectively, ensuring efficient removal of naphthalene. The adsorption capacities for naphthalene were found to be 22.04, 23.15, 23.89 and 21.67 (mg/g) for RH, PAN/RH, PPY/RH and Na-alginate/RH, respectively. The Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-first-order kinetics models aptly described the adsorption process onto the composite material. The surface morphology and functional groups involved in the biocomposite formation were examined through scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) techniques. These analyses confirmed that PPy, PAN, and Na-alginate composites with RH biomass exhibit high effectiveness in naphthalene removal, showcasing their potential application in the remediation of naphthalene from effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Rhodamine B dye (RhB) is effectively removed from aqueous solutions by using nano‐MgO and nano‐MgO activated carbon as an adsorbent. First, potassium hydroxide was used in a chemical activation process to create activated carbon from the Anacardium occidentale shell, often known as the cashew nutshell. Rosa cymose extract was used in a quick precipitation process to create nano‐magnesium oxide in a sustainable way. Activated carbon composite impregnated with nano‐magnesium oxide was made using a dropwise process. The study examined the nanocomposite that removed the dye Rhodamine B from the aqueous solution. Using SEM, XRD, FTIR, and EDX, the nano‐Mgo and nano‐MgO‐AC were analyzed. Using a scanning electron microscope, an analysis was conducted on the evenly distributed accumulation of MgO nanoparticles added to the activated carbon. The capability of nano‐MgO‐activated carbon to decolorize RhB was investigated. The effects of beginning pH ranges of 2.0–9.0, initial dye concentrations of 10–40 ppm, biosorbent dosages of 0.2–1.2 g, and contact times ranging from 10 to 60 min were investigated. At pH 5, most dye was eliminated. The work has shown that RhB may be effectively removed from aqueous medium using nano‐MgO‐AC, it could potentially be used as an affordable adsorbent material. Equilibrium estimations were acknowledged strongly through Langmuir approximations with a correlation determination of 0.985. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are potential materials in various areas such as engineering and medicine, and their applications are being studied for practical use. SMAs show competence in their main material properties in response to their working environment or external stimuli. Machining of NiTiCu10 SMAs is difficult using traditional machining because of their wide-ranging mechanical properties like high toughness, strength, and sensitivity to phase transformation temperature. Nonconventional machining methods such as electro-discharge machining (EDM) are suitable for effective machining SMAs. The work material NiTiCu10 SMA has been used in this study, and processed using the vacuum induction melting (VIM) technique. The addition of copper leads to increase in the martensitic transformation temperatures. This paper focuses on the electro-discharge drilling (EDD) of NiTiCu10 SMA using copper tool electrode. Experimental analysis of performance criteria has been evaluated by conducting experiments following one factor at a time (OFAT) approach. Machining features such as material removal rate (MRR), tool electrode wear rate (TEWR), and surface roughness (SR) have been studied by considering pulse current ( I p ), gap voltage ( V g ), pulse on time ( T on ), pulse off time ( T off ), and rotational speed of tool electrode (N). Experimental results have shown that machining at the highest I p of 12 A yields the highest MRR with the value of 4.077 mm3/min, whereas mcahining at T on of 15 μ s yields the lowest TEWR with the value of 0.031 mm3/min. The lowest SR is 2.8 μ m achieved at the lowest T on of 15 μ s. Surface morphology is significant in quality evaluation in the manufacturing, and building industries because it directly determines the mechanical performance of parts, and the service life of products. Morphological investigation via scanning electron microscope (SEM) has confirmed the formation of craters, debris, microcracks, and resolidified layers. The benefit of this study has been that we have been able to select the range of significant control factors, and predict their levels, for decisive experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Janus particles are popular in recent years due to their anisotropic physical and chemical properties. Even though there are several established synthesis methods for Janus particles, microfluidics-based methods are convenient and reliable due to low reagent consumption, monodispersity of the resultant particles and efficient control over reaction conditions. In this work a simple droplet-based microfluidic technique is utilized to synthesize magnetically anisotropic TiO2-Fe2O3 Janus microparticles. Two droplets containing reagents for Janus particle were merged by using an asymmetric device such that the resulting droplet contained the constituents within its two hemispheres distinct from each other. The synthesized Janus particles were observed under the optical microscope and the scanning electron microscope. Moreover, a detailed in vitro characterization of these particles was completed, and it was shown that these particles have a potential use for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of street dust pollution is primarily related to levels of microplastic particles (MPs) and heavy metals, raising concerns about their potential risk to the environment. In this work, twenty street dust samples with three replicates were collected from different areas (residential, commercial, and industrial) on the left side of Mosul city/Iraq, to investigate the presence of MPs and study their characteristics. Additionally, to assess the potential ecological risk impact of twelve heavy metals. Among the 60 dust samples taken from the streets, an average of MPs ranging between 244 and 2760 per 15 grams of dust was detected. Most of these plastic particles were transparent fragments with sizes varying from less than 10 to 200 µm as observed through a stereomicroscope and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Furthermore, results from FTIR analysis indicated that polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was the dominant polymer type found in MPs, accounting for around 63%. The levels of metal in road dust were assessed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) showing that quantification of Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sb, Hg, and Pb surpassed the background values of world soils among the twelve elements studied. Variation coefficients (VCs) coupled with enrichment and contamination factors revealed that Cr, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd, Sb, Hg, and Pb are associated with both sources (anthropogenic and natural). On the other hand, Mn, Fe, and Ni originate from natural sources. Calculated potential ecological risk (Er) indicated high ecological risk by Hg. Approximately half of the samples exhibited moderate ecological risk indices (RI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Ru addition on the martensitic transformation and mechanical properties of Zr50Pd50−xRux SMAs shape memory alloys has been studied. Strain–temperature experiments, differential scanning calorimeter, and scanning electron microscope analyses were performed to validate the theoretical predictions by DFT calculation regarding the influence of the C′ parameter on martensitic stability. Despite the absence of an observed shape memory effect under the tested conditions, the findings suggest that ZrPdRu alloys hold promise for high-temperature applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, eco-friendly chitosan-polyvinylpyrrolidone composite (CS-PVP) was synthesized from a facile one-pot reaction at room temperature and characterized using Fourier transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and elemental mapping. Characterization results confirmed the successful synthesis of CS-PVP with rough surface morphology, good crystallinity and good thermal stability with the Tpeak of the first decomposition at 330 °C. Therefore, a batch experiment was carried out in order to remove eosin Y (EY) dye from the aqueous solution using CS-PVP. The effect of initial pH solution, sorbent dose and contact time on the removal efficiency of EY were considered. Result predicted that the adsorption capacity increased with the solution pH decreased from 5 to 3. The maximum adsorption capacity was 77.24 mg/g (98%) at pH solution of 3, adsorbent dose of 0.02 g and 180 min contact time. In addition, the adsorption process of EY was well fitted by the pseudo-first order (PFO) kinetic model and the Freundlich isotherm. The adsorption mechanism of EY using CS-PVP composite can be attributed to the different electrostatic attractions, hydrogen bonding and n–π interaction. The desorption studies of EY dye from the surface of PVP-CS showed that it is reusable. The thermodynamic parameters for adsorption of EY using CS-PVP were calculated and results confirmed that the adsorption is endothermic and spontaneous. This process is simple, low-cost and high effective in organic dye remove using the as-prepared CS-PVP composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing wound dressings with healing properties is a crucial requirement, especially in developing countries. In this research work, chitosan is extracted from Monomia gladiator crab shells for the first time to fabricate a novel wound dressing. The prepared chitosan (CS) is blended with silk sericin (SS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in three different ratios of PVA:CS:SS (100:0:0), PVA:CS:SS (80:10:10) – AgNPs, and PVA:CS:SS (50:25:25) – AgNPs to produce nanofibers. The developed nanofibers were analyzed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), tensile testing, and antibacterial activity to study their fiber size, tensile strength, and bactericidal properties, respectively. The cell viability test against L929 cells demonstrates that the prepared wound dressing is noncytotoxic and facilitates cell proliferation. In vivo research on a full‐thickness excision wound model states that the incorporation of SS, CS, and AgNPs into the PVA introduces a novel multifunctional advancement in wound dressing, offering versatile benefits by promoting reepithelialization and collagen deposition. In summary, PVA:CS:SS(50:25:25)‐AgNPs can serve as an excellent wound dressing. Highlights: CS extracted from Monomia gladiator crab shells.The extracted CS is blended with SS, PVA and AgNPs to fabricate nanofibers.The inclusion of CS and SS exhibited good tensile strength and antibacterial activity.PVA:CS:SS(50:25:25)‐AgNPs served as an excellent wound dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a detailed synthesis method by solid-state reaction route and typical characterization (structural, microstructural, dielectric, impedance, modulus, and optical properties) of a double perovskite material Bi2FeMn 0. 9 Ce 0. 1 O6. An orthorhombic crystal structure having an average crystallite size of 32.2 nm is suggested by X-ray diffraction data (XRD). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrograph detects the presence of cylindrical nanorod-shaped distinct grains and well-defined grain boundaries in this material and the average grain size is 5.82 μ m. Furthermore, the purity and the presence of all constituent elements in the material were confirmed from energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and color mapping. Dielectric, impedance, modulus, and AC conductivity properties are studied within the temperature range of 25–500∘C and frequency range of 1 kHz to 1 MHz. The high dielectric constant at a low-frequency zone and low dielectric loss found in this material make it a promising candidate for better energy-storing devices. The negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) behavior is observed from the impedance study. The non-Debye relaxation is detected in the modulus study. The semiconducting nature of this material is verified by semicircular arcs observed in both Nyquist and Cole–Cole plots. The thermally activated conduction mechanism is confirmed by an AC conductivity study. The existence of Bi–O, Fe–O, Mn–O and Ce–O stretching vibrations are observed from the FTIR study and explain the presence of all constituent elements in the sample. The bandgap energy of 1.7 eV is calculated from UV-DRS analysis and hence this material can be used for advanced optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the electrical conductivity of nylon 6 (PA6) and avoid misfires and explosions caused by static charge accumulation, a quaternary ammonium salt polyionic liquid (PIL) antistatic agent was synthesized in this paper. The surface resistance of PA6 was reduced to 108Ω with the addition of 2 wt% antistatic agent, and the mechanical properties and aging resistance of the substrate were improved. Meanwhile, the morphology and crystallinity of PIL/PA6 composites were further characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersion spectrometer (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). It is worth noting that the quaternary ammonium salt polyionic liquid antistatic agent synthesized in this paper has the advantages of excellent antistatic effect, durability, low cost, and simple reaction condition, so it has a broad application prospect in the antistatic aspect of PA6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry sliding wear tests on Cu-Al-Mn Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) were performed in this study. The alloy was synthesised with the amount of manganese content varied as 5, 7, and 9 wt.% and the amount of aluminium was kept constant at 10.5 wt.% with the remaining copper. Dry sliding wear tests were carried out at different conditions of sliding speeds, sliding distances, and various load conditions. Experiments were carried out using Taguchi's technique to obtain an experimental design. The data were analysed using an L27 orthogonal array. The wear rate (WR) and coefficient of friction (COF) were evaluated using the 'smaller is better' method approach. The main parameters affecting WR and COF were determined using ANOVA. The effects of applied load, sliding speed, sliding distance, and material on WR and COF are determined. The optimum combinations of parameters were set to achieve the lowest wear rate and highest COF. Finally, confirmation tests were conducted to ensure that the experimental results were accurate. After the wear test, the sample texture was observed and analysed using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthesis is an easy, safe, and environmentally beneficial nanoparticle creation method. It is a great challenge to simultaneously improve the capping and stabilizing agent carrier separation efficiency of photocatalysts. Herein, Zn-doped Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with high exposure of 360 nm using a UV/visible spectrophotometer were prepared via a one-step hydrothermal decomposition method. A detailed analysis reveals that the electronic structures were modulated by Zn doping; thus, the responsive wavelength was extended to 600 nm, which effectively improved the visible light absorption of TiO2. We have optimized the different parameters like concentration, time, and temperature. The peak for TiO2 is located at 600 cm-1 in FTIR. A scanning electron microscope revealed that TiO2 has a definite shape and morphology. The synthesized Zn-doped TiO2NPs were applied against various pathogens to study their anti-bacterial potentials. The anti-bacterial activity of Zn-doped TiO2 has shown robust against two gram-ve bacteria (Salmonella and Escherichia coli) and two gram + ve bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus). Synthesized Zn-doped TiO2 has demonstrated strong antifungal efficacy against a variety of fungi. Moreover, doping TiO2 nanoparticles with metal oxide greatly improves their characteristics; as a result, doped metal oxide nanoparticles perform better than doped and un-doped metal oxide nanoparticles. Compared to pure TiO2, Zn-doped TiO2 nanoparticles exhibit considerable applications including antimicrobial treatment and water purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the thickness debit and stress concentration effects of a nickel‐based directionally solidified superalloy were investigated through strain‐controlled low cycle fatigue (LCF) and creep–fatigue interaction (CFI) experiments. Compared to the fatigue lives of solid specimens provided in the existing literature, the results of this paper indicate that when the wall thickness of the specimen is reduced from 5 to 1.125 mm, the fatigue life with different strain amplitudes decreases by about 45%. When film‐cooling holes (FCHs) are introduced into the hollow specimens, the fatigue life is further reduced by about 25%. Based on the observation of the scanning electron microscope (SEM), the formation mechanisms of the thickness debit and stress concentration effects under LCF and CFI loads were revealed. Subsequently, two parameters, the “wall‐thickness coefficient” and “hole coefficient,” were proposed to establish a new fatigue life prediction method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing light‐diffusing material (LDM) combined with high haze and high transmittance has a significant value, but it is a challenge for the industry. The refractive index and diameter of light‐diffusing particles are the main factors. Two series of silicone microspheres with different diameters and refractive indices were prepared through precipitation polymerization and applied in LDM. The morphology of particles and LDM were investigated by scanning electron microscope. The corresponding thermal stability was studied by a thermal gravimetric analyzer. Furthermore, the influence of diameter and refractive index on light‐diffusing properties was explored systematically. The results show that the silicone particles have excellent thermal stability and can disperse evenly in a polycarbonate matrix. The corresponding LDM also has good thermal stability. It is the diameter, not the refractive index, acting as the key factor in preparing LDM combined with high haze and high transmittance. When achieving the same haze, selecting an appropriate diameter can prepare LDM with higher transmittance than other diameters. Different refractive indices lead to similar transmittance and haze of LDMs, but the refractive index can markedly affect the loading of particles to achieve an expected light‐diffusing property. This research has aspiring guidance for the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLaccase has a wide range of substrates and the oxidation product is water, providing an ideal choice for the biological degradation and decolorization of dyeing wastewater. This study extracted laccase from the fruiting body of Agaricus bisporus, then used o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) as a cross-linking agent and added surface-aminated Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NH2-nanoFe3O4) to prepare magnetic cross-link enzyme aggregates (MCLEAs) of laccase, which was characterized by scanning electron microscope and vibrating sample magnetometer. The optimal temperature for the catalytic reaction of the MCLEAs was 35 °C, and the optimal pH was 3.0. The stability to temperature pH and storage stability were all enhanced. The immobilized laccase was utilized to treat amido black 10B solution, and the decolorization rate reached 92.48%. After five cycles of use, the MCLEAs of laccase could maintain 42.91% of the relative activity and 32.31% of the relative degradation ability to amido black 10B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study introduces a new electrochemical sensor for bisphenol A (BPA) and metal ions utilizing a microsphere dual‐ligand Ni‐based MOFs modified carbon paste. The MOFs (Ni‐bipy‐btc) synthesized from dual‐ligands were prepared via a hydrothermal method and characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), FT‐IR spectrometer, X‐ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), and specific surface area test (BET) analysis. The resulting MOFs exhibited promising performance as electrode materials for electrochemical sensors targeting the detection of BPA and heavy metal ions (Pb2+ and Cu2+). The linear range of the MOFs (Ni‐bipy‐btc)/CPE electrode for BPA detection ranged from 0.2 to 150 μM, with a detection limit of 0.045 μM, demonstrating robust immunity and stability. Additionally, the limit of detection for the MOFs (Ni‐bipy‐btc)/CPE electrode was found to be 4.3 and 9.5 nM for Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions, respectively, showcasing excellent stability and reproducibility. This study presents a straightforward approach for the highly sensitive electrochemical detection of BPA and heavy metal ions using a simple hydrothermal reaction method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of the cuticular and sensory metatibial and metatarsal structures in cixiid planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha) is proposed, depicting both their strong disparity and the great diversity of the patterns observed. Terminology and definitions for these structures are provided. The so-called lateral teeth of the metatibia in fact are particular styloconic sensory structures, called spiniform sensilla in Cixiidae. The apical metatibiotarsal teeth are non-sensory cuticular expansions, often bearing one or several chaetic sensilla ventrally, generally distributed in an internal and an external group of three teeth each, in some instances separated by a diastema; innermost and outermost teeth are generally larger. On the first tarsomere seven to eight teeth generally occur in one row, although two rows are observed in Brixidiini. A strong diversity of conformations and patterns is observed in the second metatarsomere. A specific subdorsal sensillum, of platellar type, may be present in the first metatarsomere teeth for a few taxa. It is generally present in the second metatarsomere, either as a narrow-based acutellar sensillum or as a broad-based platellar sensillum according to the taxon. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses of 54 species of cixiids from all described tribes of the family, supplemented by data from the literature, are used to provide a metatibiotarsal diagnosis for each of the tribes of Cixiidae. In the state of our knowledge of the sufficiently precise observations of metatibiotarsal structures in the Cixiidae which are available, and of the phylogeny of the group as a frame of reference for their interpretations, we note that the observed patterns are probably the result of multiple and independent convergences and evolutionary regressions. These occurred at all levels of cixiid classification. Although these patterns can be useful in the identification of taxa at a low taxonomic level, they would be less useful for phylogenetic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, Kodo millet grains were roasted in the microwave at 360, 720, and 900 W for 3 and 5 min and pan‐roasted at 195°C for 5 min. The Kodo millet flours (KMFs) were characterized on the basis of physical, functional, pasting, rheological, antioxidant, morphological, and structural properties. After roasting, the bulk density (BD) of all treated samples decreased, while the tap density, Hausner's ratio, and compressibility index (CI) increased with roasting. Higher microwave power (720 and 900 W) and duration time (5 min) resulted in lower L∗ values and higher a∗ and b∗ values. The roasting in pan and microwave significantly improved the water absorption capacity (WAC) of flour. However, the destruction of hydrophobic functional groups resulted in a significant reduction in the oil absorption capacity (OAC). The pasting and rheological curves confirmed that low power can improve the pasting properties, producing thick pastes. However, the pan and microwave roasting (MWR) at 900 W for 5 min degraded starch and resulted in a flat pasting curve. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs also confirmed this, showing pore space formation, initiated at a power of 720 W and becoming more noticeable until 900 W, when the structure is destroyed. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of all samples suggested a type A crystalline structure, and the degree of crystallinity increased with microwave power, except for the 900 W for 5 min and the pan‐roasted KMF. The antioxidant activity (AOA) of all roasted samples was higher than that of the control sample, except for 900 W for 5 min. Total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased in all KMF compared to the control, except 360 W for 3 min. Furthermore, all microwave‐roasted KMF showed significantly higher total phenolic content (TPC) than control and pan‐roasted KMF. These findings provide valuable information on optimizing the roasting process to improve the nutritional and functional properties of KMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nHighlightsThe calcium ferrite nanoparticles were made by the sol–gel process. X-ray diffraction, a scanning electron microscope, and UV–vis spectroscopy were used to analyze the material. There is an orthorhombic phase in the space group Pnma. There were four techniques used to calculate the average crystallite size. Using ImageJ software, the particles were aggregated and their size was ascertained. Using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, the composition of the material was ascertained. 2.29 eV was determined to be the band gap. Vibrating test magnetometer (VSM) provided an explanation for the materials’ magnetic property. A decreased band gap energy is responsible for the 90% degradation of malachite green dye at a concentration of 15 mg/L in 150 min, with a four-cycle reusability.Calcium ferrite nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by sol–gel assisted combustion method using leaf extract of Brassica oleracea as fuel.To the best of the author’s knowledge, no such case study that reports the synthesis of calcium ferrite nanoparticles by using leaf extract of Brassica oleracea is previously reported in academic literature.The method is cost-effective and convenient without the use of any chemical fuel agents.The synthesized prepared material efficiently removes malachite green dye, commonly used in industries for dyeing silk and nylon, from the solution.More than 90 % removal efficiency for MB.The material displayed excellent stability and reusability for dyes adsorption.Results were validated with pseudo-first-order kinetic model.Calcium ferrite nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by sol–gel assisted combustion method using leaf extract of Brassica oleracea as fuel.To the best of the author’s knowledge, no such case study that reports the synthesis of calcium ferrite nanoparticles by using leaf extract of Brassica oleracea is previously reported in academic literature.The method is cost-effective and convenient without the use of any chemical fuel agents.The synthesized prepared material efficiently removes malachite green dye, commonly used in industries for dyeing silk and nylon, from the solution.More than 90 % removal efficiency for MB.The material displayed excellent stability and reusability for dyes adsorption.Results were validated with pseudo-first-order kinetic model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The machinability of aluminum alloy (Al-6082) has the scope of enhancement by integrating Friction Stir Processing (FSP) with tool geometry, tool shape and different tool materials. In this research, the role of tool pin shape has been studied by experimenting on various tool shapes (square, hexagonal and octagonal) with the aim of machinability improvement. In FSP, the tool rotation speed is 930rpm and tool travel speed is 26mm/min. The specimens have undergone tensile, microhardness and microstructure testing using optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The percentage elongation has been increased from 15% to 29% in the case of the octagonal-shaped tool pin; similarly, the (Vickers’) microhardness value is 14.6% higher than the square- and hexagonal-shaped tool pins. Among these tool pin shapes, the octagonal-shaped tool pin succeeded in providing the best-in-class machinability performance on Al-6082 T6 alloy with FSP. It may unveil the newer scopes of FSP on Al-6082 for automotive components assembly and other similar applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Polymer composites reinforced with carbon fiber (CF) are strong, light weight and corrosion‐resistant, and have a wide range of applications in automobile, sports, aerospace, wind energy etc. but are prone to fail at the interface of epoxy and fiber due to weak interfacial adhesion between the fiber and epoxy. Formation of an interphase region with a continuous gradation of properties between fiber and the epoxy can potentially delay failure. Development of a larger interphase can be facilitated by the inclusion of graphene platelets on carbon fiber surface through various deposition processes. The present investigation utilizes a unique combination of magnesium nitrate hexahydrate and carboxyl graphene (G‐COOH) to create a colloidal solution for the particulate type deposition of G‐COOH onto carbon fibers through electrophoretic deposition (EPD). Four layers of EPD deposited carbon fibers have been used to make the composite using vacuum assisted resin transfer molding technique. Tensile and flexural tests have been conducted on the pristine and 0.45 wt% of G‐COOH deposited carbon fiber (0.45G‐COOH CF) epoxy composite. G‐COOH addition leads to thickening of the interphase which has been confirmed through energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy line scanning. The tensile and flexural strength properties of the carboxyl graphene deposited composites exhibited an increase of 62% and 12% respectively. These improvements can be ascribed to the deposition of carboxyl graphene particles on the fiber and an enhancement in interphase thickness. Moreover, the addition of G‐COOH in composites resulted in a 38% increase in tensile strain. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and void content measured in 0.45G‐COOH CF have been compared with pristine carbon fiber composite as well as 1.3 wt% of carboxyl graphene (1.3G‐COOH) deposited carbon fiber fabric composite that had a film type morphology of G‐COOH deposition. There is only a slight decrease in ILSS of 0.45G‐COOH carbon fiber composites occurred compared to pristine carbon fiber composites. The film type morphology of carbon fiber composite showed the highest void content and lowest ILSS compared to other composites. The fracture surfaces of the failed composites were thoroughly examined through scanning electron microscope and they showed that the failure mechanisms in both tension and flexural loading were severely affected by the presence of G‐COOH. Optimization of electrophoretic deposition process parameters for carboxyl graphene deposition on carbon fiber fabrics. Enhancement composite strength through the particle type deposition of carboxyl graphene over film type deposition. Evaluation of the tensile, flexural and interlaminar shear strength of particle type carboxyl graphene deposited composite. Identified the failure mechanisms of these tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuticle quality can affect food safety by protecting poultry eggs from bacterial infection in the modern poultry industry. However, genetic factors related to cuticle nanostructure are not much reported due to limited bird models. In the current study, the genome-edited quail targeting myostatin (MSTN) gene was used to investigate the effect of MSTN mutation on the cuticle nanostructure and quality. To analyze nanostructure of the cuticle layer of the MSTN mutant and wild-type (WT) quail eggs, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images was taken. Thickness of the cuticle layer did not differ between the MSTN mutant and WT groups, but the size of the nanospheres in the surface of the cuticle layer was increased by MSTN mutation. In addition, increased size of the nanospheres in the MSTN mutant group was also shown in the upper region of the cross-sectional cuticle layer. Notably, both groups showed similar small-sized nanospheres in the lower region of the cuticle layer and the size was increased as they ascended to the upper region. The data suggested that MSTN mutation increased the size of the nanosphere in the upper region of the cuticle layer at a late phase rather than increasing the size of nanospheres in the lower region of the cuticle layer at an early phase of cuticle formation. However, the number of Escherichia coli attached to the surface did not differ between the two groups indicating no association between nanosphere size and bacterial attachment in quail eggs. The current study demonstrated a new function of the MSTN gene on regulation of cuticle nanostructure, for the first time. These results advanced our knowledge on the association between genetic factors and cuticle nanostructure and can be served as a reference to study the mechanism of cuticle formation in the future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the mechanical properties of continuous carbon/glass hybrid fiber‐reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites (HFRC) produced through the three dimensions (3D) printing process, comparing them with single carbon fiber‐reinforced PLA composites (CFRC). Initially, composite prepreg filaments are prepared using an impregnation device, followed by fabrication using a 3D printer. The mechanical performance results reveal a 13% increase in tensile strength for HFRC compared with CFRC. Due to differing elongation rates of carbon and glass fibers, HFRC exhibits two strength peaks, while CFRC demonstrates a 37% higher bending strength than HFRC. Scanning electron microscope images indicate that the tensile failure mechanism involves fiber brittle fracture and fiber‐matrix interface debonding, while the bending failure mechanism includes fiber pullout, fiber debonding, fiber cluster buckling, and interlayer interface failure. Highlights: To realize the moldless rapid manufacturing of continuous hybrid fiber‐reinforced PLA composites.The stress–strain curves of single fiber‐reinforced composites and hybrid fiber‐reinforced composites are obviously different.Elucidating the effect of single fiber/hybrid fiber in composites on mechanical properties and failure mechanism according to micro‐morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer alloying is particularly important due to the possibility of choosing a wide range of materials and the ability to design a product with desired properties. In case of incompatibility between the components, the resulting alloy cannot meet the set of desired properties and shows poor performance. In this research, alloys of polyvinyl chloride and polylactic acid were prepared in an internal mixer and nanoclay and maleic anhydride‐grafted styrene‐ethylene/butylene‐styrene (SEBS‐g‐MAH) compatibilizer were used to improve the properties. In order to investigate the morphology and phase distribution of polylactic acid, scanning electron microscope images were taken. Tensile and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis tests were performed to evaluate the properties of the samples. The scanning electron microscope test images show the improvement of system uniformity by adding compatibilizer to the alloy. Adding nanoclay to the alloy increased the storage modulus and uniformity of the system. An increase in glass transition temperature and storage modulus was observed in the samples containing compatibilizer, and the uniformity of the system was also improved. The tensile test results showed that by adding nanoclay up to 3 % by weight, the tensile strength and Young′s modulus increase. Addition of compatibilizer up to 5 % by weight increased the physical and mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) incorporated Polyamide 66 (PA66) nanofiber mat as a photocatalyst which was prepared using electrospinning technique for degradation of methyl orange (MO). Considering the lack of reported studies on the influence of the ultrasonication on the size and stability of AgNPs, the purpose of the study was to produce a small size of AgNPs and compare it with the continuous stirring method. It is reasonable to report that the advantage of ultrasonication is to generate relatively smaller AgNPs (u-AgNPs) compared to fabrication by continuous stirring method (s-AgNPs). Helichrysum arenarium (HA) extract was used as a reducing agent as well as a capping agent in green synthesis of AgNPs. AgNPs were characterized by UV–visible spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). PA66/u-AgNs nanofibers were then successfully electrospun and characterized by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), FT-IR, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and water contact angle measurement (WCA). Fabricated PA66-based nanofiber mat with smooth surface and uniform diameters (330–340 nm) was used as a catalyst in MO degradation. PA66/u-AgNP nanofibers were also evaluated for antibacterial performance and showed significant inhibition against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. According to these findings, it is expected that the fabricated novel PA66/u-AgNP nanofibers can be announced as a promising potent and applied to the wastewater applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) derived from W. bifurcata fruit peel extract. ZnONPs are frequently synthesized utilizing a green technique that is both cost-effective and ecologically friendly. ZnONPs were characterized utilizing analytical techniques. Ultra Violet visible (UV-Vis) spectra showed peaks at 364 nm, confirming the production of ZnONPs. Scanning Electron Microscope analysis indicated that the nanoparticles generated were spherical/agglomerated, with diameters ranging from 11 to 25 nm. FTIR spectroscopy was used to identify the particular functional groups responsible for the nanoparticles' reduction, stabilization, and capping. Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed that flavonoids, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, and resins were present. The antibacterial activity of W. bifurcata synthesised nanoparticles was evaluated against pathogenic bacteria. The ZnONPs antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH assay. The in vitro cytotoxicity was assessed against prostate cancer PC3 cells. The wound healing potential was assessed by employing in vitro scratch assay and in vivo excision model in Wistar rats. Because of its environmentally benign production, low toxicity, and biocompatibility, ZnONPs exhibited potential antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and wound healing activities, indicating that they could be used in cancer treatment and wound management. Further study is required to examine the fundamental mechanisms and evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the test sample in clinical situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modified carbon paste sensor based on N,N′-(((ethane-1,2-diylbis(oxy))bis(2,1-phenylene))bis(methanylylidene))bis(pyridine-2-amine; BPA Schiff base as Cr(III) selective carrier was fabricated and studied in this work. The proposed sensor homogenization and mechanism of action was studied by infra-red (IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) tools. The sensor covered 1.0 × 10−7–1.0 × 10–1 mol L−1 linear range and a detection limit of 7.22 × 10–8 mol L−1 for Cr(III) with 20.17 ± 0.13 mV decade−1 Nernstian slope. 5 s was the response time of the prepared sensor and it was reproducible and stable for 3 months. The working pH range was 3.3–6.0 and it also works well to determine Cr(III) ion in presence of water miscible solvents up to 12.5% content of the methanol and 17.5% of ethanol. The electrode's selectivity was studied using separate and mixed solution methods for selectivity coefficients determination and the sensor showed good selectivity relative to a variety of metal ions (selectivity coefficients = 1.01 × 10−5–8.57 × 10−3). In addition, the practical analysis value of the sensor was demonstrated by measurement of Cr(III) quantitatively in mineral water, supplement and also as an indicator electrode in Cr(III) against EDTA potentiometric titration with good reproducibility (RSDs of 0.91–2.15%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

van der Waals (vdWs) interchain coupling is a unique feature of 1D vdWs materials, where strong vdWs coupling in 1D vdWs materials leads to the thickness‐dependent physical properties, while weak vdWs coupling can preserve the single‐chain property even in their thick counterparts. Different from 2D vdWs materials, due to their nanoscale widths, identifying and producing ultrathin 1D molecular chains are challenging, severely limit their device applications. Thus, looking for novel 1D vdWs materials with weak interchain coupling is crucial. In this paper, the authors report that the 1D ternary vdWs material, Mo6Se2I8 with non‐centrosymmetric characteristic and strong optical anisotropy, exhibits weak interchain coupling. On one hand, the density functional theory (DFT) calculations theoretically demonstrate its thickness‐independent electronic structure, negligible interchain differential charge density, and weak cleavage energy as low as 0.256 J m−2. On the other hand, the thickness‐independent work function and low first‐order temperature coefficient of −0.0030 cm−1 K−1 further experimentally confirm its weak interchain coupling. Moreover, taking advantage of this weak vdWs coupling characteristic, the in situ exfoliation of the Mo6Se2I8 nanowires is achieved by using a nanoprobe in a scanning electron microscope (SEM), obtaining ultrathin molecular chains with a thickness of ≈1.2 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to use beeswax, a readily available and cost-effective organic material, as a novel phase change material (PCM) within blends of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene (SEBS). LDPE and SEBS act as support materials to prevent beeswax leakage. The physicochemical properties of new blended phase change materials (B-PCM) were determined using an X-ray diffractometer and an infrared spectrometer, confirming the absence of a chemical reaction within the materials. A scanning electron microscope was used for microstructural analysis, indicating that the interconnection of the structure allowed better thermal conductivity. Thermal gravimetric analysis revealed enhanced thermal stability for the B-PCM when combined with SEBS, especially within its operating temperature range. Analysis of phase change temperature and latent heat with differential scanning calorimetry showed no major difference in the melting point of the various PCM blends created. During the melting/solidification process, the B-PCMs possess excellent performance as characterized by W70/P30 (112.45 J.g−1) > W70/P20/S10 (94.28 J.g−1) > W70/P10/S20 (96.21 J.g−1) of latent heat storage. Additionally, the blends tend to reduce supercooling compared to pure beeswax. During heating and cooling cycles, the B-PCM exhibited minimal leakage and degradation, especially in blends containing SEBS. In comparison to the rapid temperature drop observed during the cooling process of W70/P30, the temperature decline of W70/P30 was slower and longer, as demonstrated by infrared thermography. The addition of LDPE to the PCM reduced melting time, indicating an improvement in the thermal energy storage reaction time to the demand. According to the obtained findings, increasing the SEBS concentration in the composite increased the thermal stability of the resulting PCM blends significantly. Despite the challenges mentioned earlier, SEBS proved to be an effective encapsulating material for beeswax, whereas LDPE served well as a supporting material. Leak tests were performed to find the ideal mass ratio, and weight loss was analyzed after multiple cycles of cooling and heating at 70 °C. The morphology, thermal characteristics, and chemical composition of the beeswax/LDPE/SEBS composite were all examined. Beeswax proves to be a highly effective phase change material for storing thermal energy within LDPE/SEBS blends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curcumin‐malic acid‐aspartic acid polymer (PCMA) as a new water treatment agent was prepared by solid phase synthesis of curcumin, malic acid and aspartic acid. The static scale inhibition experiments showed that PCMA can inhibit CaCO3 and CaSO4 scale formation by 100.0 % and had excellent scale inhibition effect under various experimental conditions. The mechanism of action of PCMA was obtained by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and molecular dynamics simulation. Electrochemical test showed that PCMA is an anodic corrosion inhibitor that achieves 93.1 % corrosion inhibition by forming a protective film on the surface of Q235 carbon steel. Besides, fluorescence spectra proved that PCMA has stable fluorescence intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing expansion of chemical industries produces a variety of common pollutants, including colors, which become a global and environmental problem. Using a nanocatalyst is one of the effective ways to reduce these organic contaminants. With this in mind, a straightforward and effective method for the production of a novel nanocatalyst based on lignin-derived carbon, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and Ag particles (TiO2/C/Ag) is described. The preparation of carbon and Ag particles (in sub-micro and nano size) was carried out by laser ablation in air. The nanocomposite was synthesized using a facile magnetic stirrer of TiO2, C, and Ag. According to characterization methods, a carbon nanostructure was successfully synthesized through the laser irradiation of lignin. According to scanning electron microscope images, spherical Ag particles were agglomerated over the nanocomposite. The catalytic activities of the TiO2/C/Ag nanocomposite were tested for the decolorization of methylene blue (MB) and Congo red (CR), employing NaBH4 in a water-based solution at 25 °C. After adding fresh NaBH4 to the mixture of nanocomposite and dyes, both UV absorption peaks of MB and CR completely disappeared after 10 s and 4 min, respectively. The catalytic activity of the TiO2/C/Ag nanocomposite was also examined for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) using a NaBH4 reducing agent, suggesting the complete reduction of 4-NP to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) after 2.30 min. This shows excellent catalytic behavior of the prepared nanocomposite in the reduction of organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the interface between a magnetic powder matrix and an oxide-insulating layer is an effective method to improve the permeability and lower eddy current loss of iron-based soft magnetic composites. In this study, in order to improve the bonding strength of the substrate and insulation layer, soft magnetic composites were prepared by pressing and heat treating with reduced iron powder as a magnetic matrix, high-temperature MgO nanoparticles as insulating coating, and phenolic resin as an adhesive. The effects of MgO content on the microstructure and magnetic properties of the composites were investigated. The results of a scanning electron microscopy and an energy-dispersive spectrometer analysis corroborate that the results obtained regarding the frequency characteristics and the resistivity of the iron powder agree with the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analysis and confirm their improvement by the presence of an insulating layer of MgO. The resistivity of the sample coated with 4 wt.% MgO is nearly 45 times higher than that of the uncoated sample under the same conditions. The MgO-insulating film formed on the surface of iron powder makes the coated sample have low effective grain size, high resistivity, and low magnetic loss at a high frequency. At 1 kHz, the magnetic loss of the 4 wt.% MgO-coated sample is reduced by 77.3%, and the magnetic loss is only 5.8% compared with the uncoated sample at 50 kHz. This magnetic loss separation study shows that the addition of MgO insulation material can effectively reduce the eddy current loss of the magnetic powder core. The 4 wt.% MgO-coated sample has the lowest hysteresis loss factor and relatively low eddy current loss factor, so it can be determined that the addition of 4 wt.% MgO is the optimum content to attain a low magnetic loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before artificial ageing, extruded aluminium profiles are subjected to stretching with a small cold deformation in the range of 0.5–2%. This deformation improves the geometrical stability of the extruded product and causes changes in the microstructure of the profile, which leads to the strain hardening of the material after artificial ageing. The work has resulted in the creation of the prototype of an original device, which is unique in the world, for the dynamic stretching of the extruded profiles after quenching. The semi-industrial unit is equipped with a hydraulic system for stretching and a pneumatic system for cold dynamic deformation. The aim of this research paper is to produce advantageous microstructural changes and increase the strength properties of the extruded material. The solution of the dynamic stretching of the profiles after extrusion is a great challenge and an innovation not yet practised. The paper presents the results of microstructural and mechanical investigations carried out on extruded AlMgSi(Cu) alloys quenched on the run-out table of the press, dynamically stretched under different conditions, and artificially aged for T5 temper. Different stretching conditions were applied: a static deformation of 0.5% at a speed of 0.02 m/s, and dynamic deformation of 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% at speeds of 0.05 and 2 m/s. After the thermomechanical treatment of the profiles, microstructural observations were carried out using an optical microscope (OM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). A tensile test was also carried out on the specimens stretched under different conditions. In all the cases, the dynamically stretched profiles showed higher strength properties, especially those deformed at a higher speed of 2 m/s, where the increase in UTS was observed in the range of 7–18% compared to the classical (static) stretching. The microstructure of the dynamically stretched profiles is more homogeneous with a high proportion of fine dispersoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-supported Co–Fe LDH@Ni(OH)2 material is successfully prepared on a foam nickel substrate through two hydrothermal processes. The phase structure and microstructure of the electrode material are investigated through X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses. The electrode materials undergo electrochemical and electrocatalytic tests using an electrochemical workstation. This study demonstrates that the specific capacitance of the Co–Fe LDH@Ni(OH)2 is 2626 mF cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2. Supercapacitors made of LDH@Ni(OH)2 electrode material operate exceptionally well. Both the power density and the energy density are 0.755 mW cm−2 and 32.5 μWh cm−2, respectively. As a catalyst material for electrochemical splitting of water, CoFe-LDH@Ni(OH)2 exhibits distinguished electrocatalytic properties. The overpotential is 242 mV at 50 mA cm−2 in HER, while that is 149 mV at 20 mA cm−2 in OER. Meanwhile, the CoFe-LDH@Ni(OH)2 electrocatalytic material also performs extremely well in the overall water electrolysis testing. The voltage is 1.65 V at 25 mA cm−2, which shows strong cyclic stability. The material provides a reliable guarantee for sustained and stable operation in various application scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectin is a natural polymer that is found in the cell walls of higher plants. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of pectin extracted from lemon in two different geographic regions (Peddie and Fort Beaufort) in two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) named PP 2023, PP 2024, FBP 2023, and FBP 2024. The dried lemon peels were ground into a powder, sifted to obtain particles of 500 μm, and then subjected to pectin extraction using a conventional method involving mixing lemon peel powder with distilled water, adjusting the pH level to 2.0 with HCl, heating the mixture at 70 °C for 45 min, filtering the acidic extract, and precipitating pectin with ethanol. The yield of these pectin samples was statistically significant, as FBP 2024 had a maximum yield of 12.2 ± 0.02%, PP 2024 had a maximum yield of 13.0 ± 0.02%, FBP 2023 had a maximum yield of 12.2 ± 0.03%, and PP 2023 had a maximum yield of 13.1 ± 0.03%, The variation in yield could be due to the differences in the growing conditions, such as the climate and soil, which could have affected the pectin content in the lemons. The physicochemical characterization of all samples proved that our pectin samples could be used in the pharmaceutical and food industries, with anhydrouronic acid content which was greater than 65%, as suggested by the FAO. The scanning electron microscope analysis of all extracted pectin was rough and jagged, while the commercial pectin displayed a smooth surface morphology with a consistent size. FTIR confirmed the functional groups which were present in our samples. Thermogravimetric analysis was employed to investigate the thermal behavior of the extracted pectin in comparison with commercial pectin. It was found that the extracted pectin had three-step degradation while the commercial pectin had four-step degradation. Additionally, pectin samples have been shown to have antioxidants, as the IC50 of PP 2024, PP 2023, FBP 2023, FBP 2024, and Commercial P was 1062.5 ± 20.0, 1201.3 ± 22.0, 1304.6 ± 19.0, 1382.6 ± 29.9, and 1019.4 ± 17.1 mg/L, respectively. These findings indicate that lemon pectin has promising characteristics as a biopolymer for use in biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]