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In this study, the integration of paper industry waste with high cellulose content into biocomposites of polylactic acid (PLA), a widely used biobased polymer material, was investigated. The PLA/waste biocomposite samples (0–25 wt.%) were manufactured using the extrusion and injection moulding techniques. The mechanical test results showed improvements in terms of tensile properties and a decrease in impact strength as the percentage of residue increased. The melting temperature decreased, and the crystallinity increased in all biocomposites according to the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Water absorption increased proportionally with the percentage of residue, attributed to the higher cellulose content in the biocomposites, determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) fracture analysis demonstrated effective reinforcement–matrix cohesion, supporting the previously observed behaviour of the analysed materials. This work highlights the potential of using waste from the paper industry as reinforcement in PLA matrices, opening new perspectives for sustainable applications in the framework of the manufacture of composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper documents are an important carrier of information related to human civilization, with the reinforcement and protection of fragile paper documents being a key aspect of their protection. This research utilized amphoteric polyvinylamine polymer as a paper reinforcement agent, strengthening the Xuan paper commonly used in paper documents. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), solid-state 13C NMR, and other analytical methods were employed to compare the physical properties, micro-morphology, crystallinity, and aging resistance of the paper before and after reinforcement. Research was conducted on the effects of reinforcement, the aging resistance, and the effects on the fiber structure. The results indicate that polyethylenimine has a filling and bridging effect between the paper fibers. After treatment with polyethylenimine, there was a significant improvement in the folding endurance and tensile strength of the paper. Additionally, the paper maintains a good mechanical strength even after undergoing dry heat and humid aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the physical, mechanical, and structural characteristics of handmade paper samples derived from cellulose extracted from grass clippings using two distinct methods as follows: (1) alkali treatment and (2) alkali treatment followed by bleaching, coupled with the incorporation of barium sulfate as a mineral filler. Our investigation revealed that the handmade paper samples' densities, moisture contents, and thicknesses varied within the ranges of 0.436 to 0.549 g/cm3, 5.60 to 2.51%, and 0.41 to 0.50 mm, respectively. The tensile strength and folding endurance of the papers produced through alkali treatment with barium sulfate were notably superior to those produced from bleached pulp and barium sulfate. Our analysis indicates that several critical factors, including paper density, thickness, the crystallinity index, and the microfibrillar structure of cellulose, intricately influence the mechanical and strength properties of the samples. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, we identified characteristic cellulose bonds and examined cellulose's crystalline and amorphous phases. Additionally, the crystallinity index of the samples was determined using both the Segal and peak deconvolution methods. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed interconnected networks of cellulose fibers with varying thicknesses and lengths, along with incorporated mineral filler within the cellulose fiber structure. Variations in mineral particle retention were attributed to the presence or absence of cellulose microfibrils. These findings contribute to our understanding of the observed strength characteristics of the paper samples and underscore the potential applications of cellulose derived from grass clippings, especially when combined with barium sulfate as a mineral filler in paper production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of mineral-based fillers tends to reduce the mechanical properties of paper, which can limit their application. The filler surface modification is a significant treatment to overcome this limitation. This research aims to offer a novel modified mineral-based filler to provide its industrial application. The surface of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) was modified with xylan (XS), which is a type of hemicellulose, a polysaccharide consisting mainly of xylose residues. It is used as a filler at different filler dosage levels in paper pulp. Modified PCC(MPCC) was characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and Field-emission scanning electron microscopy analyses. The analysis demonstrated that the MPCC filler surface was coated with XS successfully. The effect of PCC and MPCC-filled hand-sheet paper physical, chemical and optical properties were studied. The experimental results showed that the mechanical (tensile, burst, tear strength) and optical (brightness, opacity) of hand-sheet paper filled with MPCC were significantly improved compared with unmodified PCC-filled paper at the same ash content. The filler retention of PCC and MPCC fillers in paper was investigated, and the MPCC filler showed better filler retention properties in paper stock than the PCC filler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural heritage objects present a special set of challenges for chemical analysis. Often micro-sampling or even contacting the object is deemed an unacceptable risk to the object. This study examined if specular reflection FTIR, a non-sampling and non-contact analytical technique, can provide insight into chemical composition of the layered coatings on Frédéric Flachéron’s paper negatives (1848–1852) in the Harrison D. Horblit Collection of Early Photography, in Houghton Library, at Harvard University. Specular reflection FTIR data confirmed the identification of beeswax and sandarac as the transparentizing media on Flachéron’s paper negatives, as previously published by Lee Ann Daffner. However, specular reflection FTIR analysis also indicated that some negatives had additional localized coatings of orange shellac in specific areas of the images. To understand why Flachéron retouched his negatives with orange shellac, modern experimental replications of the paper negative process were performed. Through modern experimentation with the paper negative technique, it was found that Flachéron’s coatings of shellac served as an integral part of his image-altering technique. The color of the orange shellac subtly alters contrast and density, but it does not mask an area the way an opaque watercolor or highly pigmented paint might. The fine adjustments to the negatives with orange shellac were an attempt to perfect the contrast in the print, and better render depth and detail. These discoveries add to a growing body of recent research that points to the historic and art historic importance of negatives and coatings in photography. The specificity with which specular reflection FTIR was able to nondestructively identify the chemical composition of the local coating, and specifically target the analysis on the areas in which it appeared, allowed for an understanding of Flachéron’s use of local coatings as a retouching method rather than a protective coating.

At the shelf, highly bleached (soft and white) toilet papers samples of different brands and one grayish toilet paper sample of another brand have been selected for spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis, in order to figure out if they can present allergic components in their chemical composition. Traces of Ca, associated with the presence of CaC2O4H2O was found in one of the highly bleached toilet paper samples and in the grayish one. However, no traces of fungi were found in the scanning electronic microscopy images. A trial correlation between the chemical composition and mechanical properties of the tested toilet paper samples, surprisingly shows that the grayish toilet paper sample presents the highest softness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobased coating material is required to replace synthetic polymer-based paper coating material for a safe and clean environment. The study aimed to investigate the use of biobased nanocomposites as a coating material for paper. The biobased nanocomposite was prepared using nanocellulose, sodium alginate (SA), and bio-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) was produced through acid hydrolysis, followed by fractionation. The average size of the crystals was 15 nm in width and 125 nm in length. AgNPs were prepared by the reduction of AgNO3 with lignin. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was confirmed by UV–visible and FTIR spectroscopy. SA-NCC composite coating improved the barrier and strength properties of paper. The paper with composite coating demonstrated a 29.11 % increase in tensile index in the cross direction, 20.82 % increase in the machine direction, and 77.89 % improvement in burst index at a coating weight of 1.68 g/m2. The composite-coated paper showed better air barrier and lower water absorption characteristics than sodium alginate-coated paper. The incorporation of AgNPs in the coating mixture introduced the antimicrobial activity of the paper as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a convenient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly sorbent based on biopolymer was fabricated and applied for thin-film microextraction (TFME) of cadmium ions from various matrices. The biodegradable cellulose-based filter paper was coated with polyaniline emeraldine salt. The sorbent surface properties were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The positively charged modified filter paper was utilized as the sorbent in TFME for separation and preconcentration of the anionic complex of cadmium ion (CdI42−). The analyte was then eluted from the sorbent by 0.5 mL of sodium hydroxide (0.5 mol L−1) and determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The extraction conditions including pH, sorption and desorption time, sample volume, and desorption parameters were considered and optimized. At optimum conditions, the method has a linear range of 0.25–25 µg L−1, a limit of detection of 0.06 µg L−1, and an enhancement factor of 198. The method precision values which were calculated as relative standard deviation (RSD%), at 3 µg L−1 cadmium solution were 3.4 (intra-day) and 4.7% (inter-day). The proposed method was successfully applied to the enrichment and trace levels determination of cadmium ions in various environmental water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Paper impregnation with 10 % ATP for an effective protection of historical paper against mould development. • 3D surface topography showed no adverse effects of ATP on paper support. • Portable "on the spot" non-invasive FTIR spectroscopy in reflection mode is an effective method for a rapid and highly sensitive detection of mould biofilms. Even though contamination of historical paper by moulds causes aesthetic, physical, and biochemical biodeterioration, dissolving cellulose fibers and inks, the currently applied physical and chemical disinfection methods are either extremely dangerous to human health (ethylene oxide), may harm the underlying support material, or their efficiency is dependent on fungal species, many of which may resist. Therefore, our aim was to test a new paper impregnation agent, aminopropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (ATP), in regards to its biological potency, ease of handling and support material safety. According to the Gelest Inc. (Morrisville, PA 19067) safety data sheet DMS-A31, ATP in solution causes eye irritation, but in dry from is relatively safe. Our biofouling experiments with four cellulase-active fungal strains, originally isolated from historical books, were conducted directly on impregnated and aged paper at verifying concentrations of ATP and at a relative humidity of 95 %. Fungal biofilm development was quantified using micro-invasive fluorescence microscopy and after incubation non-invasive FTIR spectroscopy was also employed. 3D surface topography scan results showed that ATP impregnation at a concentration of 30 % does not harm the visible structural characteristics of the tested paper and no alterations in surface roughness parameters were observed and is therefore safe for the supporting material. At least a 10 % paper impregnation was needed for an effective suppression of fungal biofilm development and tolerance to lower concentrations was species dependent, with Penicillium canescens ZIM-9717 tolerating 1 % of ATP and Aspergillus niger ZIM-9721 tolerating 1 % and 5 % of ATP. Lastly, we have shown that portable "on the spot" non-invasive FTIR spectroscopy in reflection mode can be effectively used for a rapid but highly sensitive detection and monitoring of mould biofilms on paper support materials. This is important, because sampling and fluorescence dye staining in fluorescence microscopy, will harm the integrity of cultural heritage books and documents. Therefore, non-invasive FTIR spectroscopy can provide for an initial overview or insight into the microbiological condition of library and paper materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to comprehensively examine the influence of three distinct additives, namely carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and cellulose nanofibers (CNF), on the performance enhancement of corrugated base paper. For this purpose, steam‐exploded rice straw was treated with varying concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt%) of CMC, HPMC and CNF. Analysis of the rice straw pre and post expansion, as well as the modified corrugated base paper, was conducted using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), tensile performance testing, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicated that adding CMC, CNF, and HPMC to corrugated base paper significantly improved bonding between paper layers, particularly at 2 %, 6 %, and 8 % concentrations, respectively. This enhancement notably increased tensile strength and elastic modulus of the corrugated base paper. Tensile performance saw increases of 57.76 %, 59.01 %, and 60.25 %, while elastic modulus showed increments of 52.7 %, 9.4 %, and 136.69 %, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights for the preparation of corrugated base paper and highlight the potential of CMC, HPMC, and CNF in enhancing paper mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient process for recycling paper and cardboard wastes via dissolution in N,N-dimethylacetamide/lithium chloride (DMAc/LiCl) system and regeneration from solutions to obtain hydrogels has been developed. Pretreatment of waste paper has been carried out by thermal defibrillation of waste paper in water and homogenization to obtain fibrous samples. The dissolution of fiber materials was performed in two ways by varying the process temperature and the way the reagents were added. Regeneration from solutions was carried out by spontaneous gelation without the use of antisolvents, at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. As a result, hydrogels were obtained which differed in color and transparency depending on feedstock. The physicochemical properties of the hydrogels were characterized. It was shown that they were steady in an aqueous medium, capable of retaining a significant amount of water (over 4000 wt %), and they were porous systems which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. According to a wide-angle X-ray scattering, the crystallographic structure of the pristine waste paper samples corresponded to a structural modification of cellulose I. Regenerated samples as freeze-dried hydrogels had the structure of cellulose II. A functional and an elemental composition studied with FTIR spectroscopy and an energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis characterized these hydrogels as the cellulose samples containing small amount of inorganic impurities. The resulting hydrogels had a system of open pores of different sizes, and this predetermined their use as adsorbents and active matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Paper aims to evaluate the efficiency of traditional chitosan, nano chitosan, and chitosan nanocomposites for consolidating aged papyrus samples. Cellulose-based materials, such as papyrus sheets and paper, which are the most common types of writing supports for works of art in many museums and archive. They are subjected to different types of deterioration factors that may lead to many conservation problems. Consolidation treatment is one of the most common conservation treatments, which should have perform after much testing to select the appropriate consolidants. Design/methodology/approach: This research paper aims to evaluate the resistance of traditional chitosan, nanochitosan and chitosan/zinc oxide nanocomposite as an eco-friendly papyrus strengthening. Untreated and treated papyrus was thermally aged and characterized via scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Antimicrobial activity of the papyrus specimens was also determined against four tested pathogenic bacteria by disc diffusion method: MRSA, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Findings: The results revealed that chitosan nanocomposite showed a remarkable enhancement of papyrus tensile properties and presence of ZnO prevents the effects of biodeterioration. Originality/value: Zinc oxide nanoparticles enhance the optical properties and increase the chemical reactions between the consolidating material and the treated papyrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results obtained from the analysis of some filter paper samples using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) technique. Based on the FTIR capabilities, using the infrared light to scan the samples and identify their chemical properties, organic, polymeric and inorganic materials can be characterized. The samples analysed were six filter papers with different mass additions of Ulva Rigida C. Agardh seaweed collected from the Black Sea, in Constanta area, SE Romania. The additions used consisted of 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 4% and 8% seaweed material, grounded to a certain grain size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo fibers ( BFs ), with features of renewability and biodegradability, have been widely used in paper-making products. In order to improve the mechanical properties and water absorption behaviors of the BF paper, bacterial cellulose nanofibers ( BCNFs) as environmentally friendly nano-fibrillated cellulose ( NFC) were combined with BFs. The structures and properties of the BF/ BCNF composite paper were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared(FTIR) spectroscopy, mechanical tests, pore size tests, and water absorption tests. The results indicated that the addition of BCNFs could significantly improve the water absorption capacity and mechanical properties. The water absorption ratio of the BF/ BCNF composite paper with a BCNF mass fraction of 9% comes to 443%, about 1. 33 times that of the pure BF paper. At the same BCNF content, the tensile strength of the BF/ BCNF composite paper in dry and wet states was 12. 37 MPa and 200. 9 kPa, respectively, increasing by 98. 24% and 136. 91% as compared with that of the BF paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A robust superhydrophobic filter paper was developed through a coating technique, simple and facile, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and defensible, for wide portfolio applications. To develop super hydrophobic filter papers, the paper was coated with inorganic–organic hybrid nanocomposites comprising zinc oxide, chitin, and polycaprolactone (chitin–ZnO–PCL) and zinc oxide, chitosan, and polycaprolactone (chitosan–ZnO–PCL) hybrids through the grafting method. The preparation of a superhydrophobic surface by dip-coating deposition is a facile process. Zinc oxide nanoparticles grafted with chitin–PCL and chitosan–PCL hybrids coated on paper exhibit superhydrophobic properties. Water contact angle measurement carried out using a goniometer showed the average static water angle values of 145° and 160° for the chitin–ZnO–PCL and chitosan–ZnO–PCL grafted hybrid coated surfaces, respectively. The surface morphology of the coating was studied using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, UV radiation, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, durability, oil/water separation, bio-degradability, and self-cleaning ability through water flush-out were also studied and reported. The results show that the coated filter papers possess excellent superhydrophobic properties for real-time applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the packaging sector of the printing industry, different coating applications are tried and investigated in order to increase the surface appearance and performance characteristics of paper and cardboard. The printability, water and ink absorption capacity, frictional resistance, light sensitivity of the visual graphical design that are going to be printed on the packaging papers are some of them. In this study, different types of cardboards that are used as a packaging material were chosen and coated with nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC)/PVA at different rates (%). In order to determine effective and economical usage conditions, the coating solutions, at three different concentrations as 3 wt.%, 5 wt. %, 7 wt.%, were prepared. The coating was applied on the test papers, which were at the same weights (350 g/m2) and had different surface properties as matte glossy, bright glossy, American Bristol. NCC/PVA existence on the coated paper surface was confirmed with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The impact of the coating, which was prepared at different concentrations, on the packaging materials was studied with respect to thickness, stiffness, water absorbability, contact angle and surface tension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrical tree discharge model of multilayer insulation paper was prepared, and a voltage of 20 kV was used for electrical tree cultivation and initiation tests. Based on the microscopic image information and partial discharge (PD) information during the aging of the electrical tree, the development of electrical tree discharges between layers of paper comprising epoxy resin-impregnated paper insulation was studied. The results show that, by analysing PD information such as the discharge volume phase spectrum and the discharge repetition rate phase spectrum, the development of the electrical tree branch progresses in four stages: initial, growth, stagnation, and bursting. During the growth and stagnation stages, the main discharge paths of the electrical tree are mainly formed, and there are many filamentous fibres on the path edge. During the burst stage, more branches will be formed on the electrical tree, which will cause the greatest damage to the insulation. With the extension of the electrical tree path, the discharge magnitude and discharge times also increase. There are specific discharge patterns in different growth stages of the electrical tree, and the number of discharge events in each positive half-cycle is significantly greater than that in a negative half-cycle. Combining the microscopic image information and PD information during the aging of such an electrical tree, a theoretical basis for evaluating insulation state by PD monitoring is realised. The long-chain molecules of cellulose and epoxy resin break bonds and oxidise, which decompose into a large number of free radicals, monosaccharides, and other low-molecular-weight products.

Cultural heritage objects present a special set of challenges for chemical analysis. Often micro-sampling or even contacting the object is deemed an unacceptable risk to the object. This study examined if specular reflection FTIR, a non-sampling and non-contact analytical technique, can provide insight into chemical composition of the layered coatings on Frédéric Flachéron's paper negatives (1848–1852) in the Harrison D. Horblit Collection of Early Photography, in Houghton Library, at Harvard University. Specular reflection FTIR data confirmed the identification of beeswax and sandarac as the transparentizing media on Flachéron's paper negatives, as previously published by Lee Ann Daffner. However, specular reflection FTIR analysis also indicated that some negatives had additional localized coatings of orange shellac in specific areas of the images. To understand why Flachéron retouched his negatives with orange shellac, modern experimental replications of the paper negative process were performed. Through modern experimentation with the paper negative technique, it was found that Flachéron's coatings of shellac served as an integral part of his image-altering technique. The color of the orange shellac subtly alters contrast and density, but it does not mask an area the way an opaque watercolor or highly pigmented paint might. The fine adjustments to the negatives with orange shellac were an attempt to perfect the contrast in the print, and better render depth and detail. These discoveries add to a growing body of recent research that points to the historic and art historic importance of negatives and coatings in photography. The specificity with which specular reflection FTIR was able to nondestructively identify the chemical composition of the local coating, and specifically target the analysis on the areas in which it appeared, allowed for an understanding of Flachéron's use of local coatings as a retouching method rather than a protective coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the effects of cationic starch（CS） as a reinforcing agent and a binary reinforcement system with nanocellulose（NC） on the reinforcement of recycled paper produced from old corrugated cartons（OCC）. To determine an appropriate dosage of CS, we examined the effects of CS dosage on the performance of OCC recycled paper. Further, using the optimal dosage identified, the effects of its addition on the performance of OCC recycled paper were investigated by adding NC to form a binary reinforcement system. The strengthening mechanism of the CS-NC binary composite system was examined based on a combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy（FTIR）, field emission scanning electron microscopy（SEM）, and thermogravimetric（TG） analyses. The results revealed that CS（1.5%） had the best enhancement effect on OCC recycled paper, with burst, tensile, and tear strengths of hand sheets being increased by 17.62%, 18.18%, and 22.93%, respectively, and air permeability being decreased by 28.55%, compared with the control group. Furthermore, we found that combined treatments with 1.5% CS and NC all enhanced the performance of OCC, with optimal effects being observed when NC was added at a 1% concentration. Compared with the improvements obtained with the sole addition of 1.5% CS, the combined treatment was found to increase the burst, tensile, and tear strengths of OCC recycled paper by a further 5.11%, 11.54%, and 13.46%, respectively, and reduced air permeability by 12.58%. The findings of FTIR analysis revealed that CS can bind to pulp fibers, and that the addition of NC increases the number of hydrogen bonds, thereby facilitating a tighter bonding between fibers. Moreover, SEM observations of the microscopic morphology of the surface of recycled paper indicated that the CS-NC binary system can contribute to a more compact and tighter inter-fiber bonding. In addition, the TG analysis results revealed that by enhancing fiber cross-linking, the CS-NC treatment could increase thermal degradation of the remaining residue of OCC recycled paper to up to 600°C. Our findings in this study indicate that treatment with a combination of CS and NC can significantly enhance the performance of OCC recycled paper. We believe that our results would provide a valuable reference for the repeated recycling of OCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fly ash–lime–gypsum bricks are an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient alternative to burnt clay bricks. Nowadays, the scarcity of fly ash and lime adversely affects the production of fly ash bricks. To mitigate this, the current study examines incinerated paper mill sludge ash as a supplement to fly ash and lime. In the current study, in blend 1, coal fly ash is replaced by incinerated paper mill sludge ash (2.5–30 wt%), and in blend 2, lime is completely replaced by incinerated paper mill sludge ash (2.5–15 wt%). Based on Indian standards, bricks were tested for compressive strength, water absorption, weight density, percentage voids, efflorescence, drying shrinkage, dynamic modulus of elasticity, and impact energy. Before developing bricks, the materials have to be examined by X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry differential thermal analysis, and scanning electron microscope techniques. Results from X-ray diffraction showed that higher replacement of incinerated paper mill sludge ash does not produce any phase transformation and merely improves porosity, which reduces weight. Higher replacement of incinerated paper mill sludge ash leads to a reduction in strength and a higher water requirement. The study found that incorporating incinerated paper mill sludge ash at replacement 2.5–15 wt% in blend 1 and 2.5–5 wt% in blend 2 satisfied the building brick requirements. By incorporating incinerated paper mill sludge ash into bricks, the brick industry can produce sustainable bricks that utilize resources effectively. Graphical abstract illustrating the reuse of incinerated paper mill sludge ash in the manufacturing of building bricks to minimize the demand for fly ash and lime. The visual shows the drawbacks of paper mill sludge in land dumping, the suggested methodology for reusing incinerated paper mill sludge ash to minimize environmental degradation, improved sustainability through waste utilization, its benefits, and the characterization of bricks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellulose and paper industry accounts for a large part of the circular economy. The need for activated carbons is gradually increasing, especially in the environmental and energy fields. In this study, the production of activated carbon from waste papers was carried out with the help of the chemical activation method and activation agents (phosphoric acid and zinc chloride). The parameters used in the experiments and analyzed were kept constant for all activated carbons. The density values of activated carbon were analyzed more than once in each sample with a helium-gas pycnometer device. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) was used to detect functional groups in the structure of activated carbon, and a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) was used to study surface properties and porosity development. The distributions of activated carbons and their elemental analysis were examined by energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and Mapping analyses. When the results obtained from the activated carbons produced from waste paper in the study were compared with commercial activated carbon, it was observed that the waste paper had a better surface and pore structure than commercial activated carbon for the production of activated carbon, and the activation process was successfully performed. [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]

Paper strengthening agent is more and more important in the current papermaking industry. In this study, carboxymethyl starch-grafted-polyacrylamide (CMS-g-PAM) was synthesized via grafting polyacrylamide onto carboxymethyl starch (CMS), and added in a recycled pulp furnish to make handsheets. The structure and surface morphology of CMS-g-PAM were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy. The effects of CMS-g-PAM dosage and addition way on the properties of the paper were investigated. The results showed that CMS-g-PAM could improve the paper mechanical properties through both wet end addition and surface spraying, and surface spraying had a better improvement at the same dosage. CMS-g-PAM was more effective in improving paper mechanical properties than CMS, when it comes to the same addition way and the same dosage. SEM analysis demonstrated that CMS-g-PAM could increase the inter-fiber bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last few years have witnessed the change in the modalities of smuggling of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) by impregnating them in mail envelopes and fast parcels. Considering the aforementioned scenario, it is important to develop a portable technique to identifying SCRAs through packages. The purpose of this research was to detect SCRAs impregnated into substrates of paper using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy. Three SCRAs that included 5F‐PB‐22, AB‐FUBINACA and AKB‐48 were purchased from Sigma Aldrich. The three SCRAs and four cutting agents were impregnated into paper of variable thickness at four concentrations (10, 15, 20, and 25 mg/mL). Spectra were collected over the wavenumber range of 650–4000 cm−1 using ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy and were exported to Matlab 2020b where data analysis was applied. The FTIR spectral data was able to show the three SCRAs could be detected on paper using ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy and quantitatively modeled using the partial least squares regression algorithm. Principal component analysis showed separate clustering for the compounds that crystallized (5F‐PB‐22, AB‐FUBINACA and caffeine) onto the papers surface from those impregnated into the bulk of the paper (AKB‐48 and procaine) with the latter situated near blank papers in score plots. In summary, ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy has proven to be a successful non‐destructive technique in detecting and quantifying a selection of SCRAs impregnated into paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years in India, fly ash-lime-gypsum (FaL-G) brick production has been adversely affected by the scarcity of fly ash and lime. Consequently, the current study aims to mitigate this problem. It delves into leveraging incinerated paper mill sludge ash (IPMSA) as a supplement to fly ash and lime in FaL-G brick production, aiming to present an eco-conscious alternative to conventional burnt clay bricks. It focuses on two blends: blend 1, replacing fly ash with IPMSA (2.5–30 wt%), and blend 2 substituting lime entirely with IPMSA (2.5–15 wt%). A thorough material analysis preceded brick manufacturing, involving techniques like energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. Subsequent tests evaluated compressive strength, water absorption, weight density, percentage of voids, initial rate of suction and chemical resistance of the resulting bricks. According to the XRD results, the higher IPMSA levels didn't induce any phase transformation. Remarkably, bricks incorporating IPMSA in blend 1 (2.5–20 wt%) and blend 2 (2.5–7.5 wt%) met the mechanical properties specified for 'class 10' bricks according to Indian and ASTM standards. Incorporating IPMSA increases the porosity of bricks, making them lighter. This aids in minimizing construction expenses by reducing labour and transportation costs as well as lowering expenditure on foundation construction. This sustainable approach efficiently uses resources, reduces landfill wastes, shows potential for industrial-scale production, making eco-friendly bricks a promising alternative to traditional methods and promoting greener construction practices. • Ecofriendly FaL-G bricks were developed using incinerated paper mill sludge ash (IPMSA). • Reusability of IPMSA in FaL-G brick production poses both economic and environmental benefits. • Use of IPMSA in FaL-G brick production reduces landfill waste and addresses waste management issues. • IPMSA is suitable for up to 20 wt% for fly ash and 7.5 wt% for lime in FaL-G brick production, meeting relevant standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermochromic inks (TC) have received increasing attention in recent years, particularly in the design and packaging industries. Their stability and durability are crucial for their application. This study highlights the detrimental effects of UV radiation on the lightfastness and reversibility of thermochromic prints. Three commercially available TC inks with different activation temperatures and in different shades were printed on two different substrates, cellulose and polypropylene-based paper. Used inks were vegetable oil-based, mineral oil-based and UV-curable. The degradation of the TC prints was monitored using FTIR and fluorescence spectroscopy. Colorimetric properties were measured before and after exposure to UV radiation. The substrate with a phorus structure exhibited better colour stability, suggesting that the chemical composition and surface properties of the substrate play a crucial role in the overall stability of thermochromic prints. This can be explained by the ink penetration into the printing substrate. The penetration of the ink into the structure (cellulose fibres) protects the ink pigments from the negative effect of the UV radiation. Obtained results suggest that although the initial substrate may appear suitable for printing, its performance after ageing may not be optimal. In addition, the UV curable prints show better light stability than those made of mineral- and vegetable-based inks. In the field of printing technology, understanding the interplay between different printing substrates and inks is critical to achieve high-quality, long-lasting prints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to find an applicable solution for the consolidation of petrified paper after disassembling it to complete other stages of treatment. Design/methodology/approach: The samples were subjected to natural aging by being inoculated with Aspergillus niger until they reached the stage of adhesion and petrification. After that, the leaves were separated, and cellulose nanocrystals were applied, then the leaves were subjected to wet thermal aging for 21 days. Digital microscope, scanning electron microscope, mechanical properties measurement, measurement of color change, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and pH measurement were used to evaluate the effects of the cellulose nanocrystal on paper. Findings: The results proved that cellulose nanocrystal (5%) successes consolidation of petrified paper Without affecting its natural, mechanical and chemical properties. Originality/value: This study was based on the effectiveness of cellulose nanocrystal in strengthening the petrified papers and testing its effect on the physical, mechanical and chemical paper properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Machine Learning to classify watermarked Italian paper. • XRF and FTIR spectroscopies to study late middle-aged Italian watermarked paper. • A new spatial-temporal approach to trace the local recipes and the geographical paper mills' production. • Bergamo and Bologna stand out as marked watermarked Italian paper mills. Manuscripts, illuminated codex, books, documents and letters are composite materials, traces of the past starting from the invention of the writing. In this context, dating is one of the most important information for document attribution, and watermarked papeItaly'smarkers for studying their time-spatial distribution. In the Late Middle Ages, Italy's most important centre of paper mill was located in the town of Fabriano (Marche region, Italy). Here, a selection of ten Italian Late Middle Ages watermarked papers belonging to the Corpus Chartarum Italicarum (Corpus of Italian papers) is characterised by elemental and molecular spectroscopies and collected data are analysed by Machine Learning (ML) to trace the local fabrication recipes and the geographical paper mills production. Data from portable X-ray fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were analysed through Singular Vector Machine, Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy and Moving Blocks methods. This innovative ML spatial-temporal approach based on keeping the temporal variable fixed is used to find elemental benchmarks for classifying the watermarked Italian notarial catalogue of the Late Middle Ages finding differences in the local recipes and studying the homogeneity in the paper mills' production. Results show that watermarked paper from Northern Italy, from the town of Strozza, Piacenza and Bergamo , as well as Bologna, present a high elemental and molecular homogeneity, which indicates that the hand-made processing technique could be the same helped by the proximity of the three cities, starting point for technologies exchange or influence. No heavy metals are found in the watermarked paper and K, Ca, Fe and Zn are identified as elemental benchmarks. Finally, Ca, Ti, Mn, Cr and Fe are particularly present on the edges of the watermarked papers. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we aimed to analyze suspensions of cationic starch by adding 5 wt%, 7 wt%, and 10 wt% of bentonite as a bilayer coating on kraftliner paper (85 g/m2). The controls were doubly-wet-and-dry and uncoated kraftliner paper. In a coating machine, the formulations were applied until reaching a grammage of 15 g/m2 and then dried at 103 ± 2 °C. The test was carried out about pH, solids content, and viscosity of the suspensions. The physical characteristics of the coated papers were evaluated, as well as their ability to block water, water vapor, and oil/grease. We also analyzed with scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The packaging, having a water contact angle of up to 78° and 189 g/m² for Cobb, showed a low resistance to water, which is further responsible for decreased mechanical resistance. Nevertheless, the coating did not change the permeability to water vapor, however, bentonite promoted a decrease in wettability and Cobb value of the paper. The addition of 7 wt% bentonite to the cationic starch matrix promoted high oil resistance with 12 for kit-oil, while 10 wt% bentonite promoted greater pencil hardness, with a value of 8H. Bentonite strength and cationic starch showed good interaction, increasing oil resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, nanokaolin (K) and nanometakaolin (MK) were synthesized from waste paper via planetary ball milling and characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared vibrational spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Suspensions of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and the synthesized nanominerals at 1.5, 3, 6, and 9% led to nanocomposites 30, 60, 90, and 120 μm thick. Nanocomposites coated papers were analyzed by means of XRD, FTIR, SEM, tensile index, strain rate, burst index, and air passage resistance. The highest tensile index, burst index, and air permeability resistance values of 80.78 N. m g , 5.24 k P a. m 2 g , and 286.66 m l / m i n , respectively, were obtained for CMC-9%MK-120. These results indicated that paper coated with CMC nanometakaolin composite is suitable for packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flame resistance of kraft paper was greatly modified by an eco-friendly, phosphorus-containing and reactive flame retardant, ammonium phosphite, which was grafted on kraft paper via pad-bake method. The results showed that the limiting oxygen index of treated kraft paper could increase from 19.1 to 48.2%. The results of vertical flammability tests imply that the char length of treated sample decreased from 210 to 45 mm. Thermogravimetry analysis showed that treated kraft paper had the lower initial decomposition temperature and more residues than control sample. Thermogravimetry analysis/infrared spectrometry indicated that the flammable volatile species of treated kraft paper reduced obviously compared with that of control sample. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy suggested that ammonium phosphite was grafted on the cellulose molecules by P-O-C covalent bonds and the flame retardant is reactive in condensed phase. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the modification had little effect on the surface of kraft paper and the residual carbonized frame of treated kraft paper retained the fiber shape after combustion. EDX results showed that the flame retardant introduced a large amount of phosphorus and nitrogen into kraft paper. X-ray diffraction indicated that the modification did not significantly affect the crystal structure of kraft paper. And the strength of kraft papers slightly declined after the modification, but it still remained well. [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]

A new porous solid base catalyst was prepared using dewatered paper sludge and successfully employed to produce biodiesel from soybean oil. The as-prepared catalyst was characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermal gravity/differential thermal gravity analysis, Brunauer-Emmet-Teller analysis, and CO2-temperature programmed analysis. The results showed that the formation of CaO and uniformly distributed porous structure should account for the high catalytic activity of the as-prepared catalyst. The optimum reaction conditions were observed at 180 ℃, 8 wt.% catalyst/oil weight ratio, 16:1 methanol/oil molar ratio, and 300 min reaction time with 91.6% biodiesel yield. After being used several times and recycled, the regenerated catalyst still exhibited effective catalytic activity without apparent deactivation. The kinetic study confirmed that the experimental data satisfied with Pseudo-first-order kinetic model controlled by reaction temperature and catalyst/oil weight ratio. The reaction activation energy was 24.98 kJ/mol. The change of enthalpy ΔH (14.98 kJ/mol), entropy ΔS (−208.57 J/mol/K), and Gibbs free energy ΔG (109.46 kJ/mol) indicated that the transesterification reaction catalyzed by the dewatered paper sludge-derived catalyst is endothermic, endergonic, and non-spontaneous. Our research finding indicated that the CaO-based catalyst derived from dewatered paper sludge was an economically promising and eco-friendly solid base catalyst for biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aminoalkylalkoxysilane copolymers (co-AAAS) have the ability to simultaneously deacidify and strengthen paper documents. Nevertheless, despite enhancing the tensile strength, they generally fail to improve the folding endurance of the degraded groundwood pulp-rich papers. Focusing on that specific type of papers, several ways to overcome their lack of reinforcement were investigated. Promoting the polymerization of AAAS using catalysts and thermal steps was one of them. A monitoring with FTIR spectroscopy showed that the thermal step was the most efficient in speeding up the hydrolysis and polycondensation of 3-aminopropylmethyldiethoxysilane (AM) monomer in aqueous solutions. The progress of the two-steps reaction in terms of degree of polymerization of AAAS polymers was then studied in-situ after heating the paper, using Cross Polarization—Magic Angle Spinning 29Si solid-state NMR, and was shown to be enhanced as well. The other optimization route explored was to stabilize the paper before treatment. Our previous research had shown that the presence of oxidized groups in paper hampered the strengthening. Sodium borohydride, a known bleaching agent in paper conservation, was used prior to the AAASs treatment to decrease the amount of carbonyls in paper. The reduction and the thermal step were compared in terms of the mechanical properties (folding endurance and tensile strength) upon AAASs treatment of several lignocellulosic papers, including three newsprints dated 1911–1923. The use of sodium borohydride led to a significant improvement of the folding endurance of the samples, an unprecedented result. It enabled at the same time to counteract the yellowing induced by the AAAS and to build a larger alkaline reserve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of dye-sensitized solar cells have been constructed using titania-rich paper industry waste materials. The cells obtained were able to produce solar electricity, but with relatively poor photon-to-current efficiencies reaching only 0.47% and short circuit photocurrent densities up to 1.14 mA × cm −2 , but reasonable fill factors and very good open circuit photovoltage reaching 67% and 719 mV, respectively. The titania-rich waste samples were prepared by removal of water and post-production organic residues and well characterized with XRD, XRF, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, EDS and UV–vis techniques. This paper presents an alternative solution for green energy production and conversion of pollutants to useful materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palladium nanoparticles decorated on polyaniline coated carbon fiber paper electrode (Pd‐PANI/CFP) was employed for TEMPO ((2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxyl) mediated electrocatalytic oxidation of pyridyl methanol to pyridyl carboxaldehyde using cyclic voltammetry in aqueous acidic media using a surfactant. The electrochemical properties of the modified electrodes were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The physicochemical properties of the modified electrodes were studied using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Optical profilometry, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Pd‐PANI/CFP electrode has exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards TEMPO mediated oxidation of pyridyl methanol owing to higher electrochemically active surface area of the modified electrode. CV studies suggested higher electrochemical activity for Pd‐PANI/CFP electrode when compared to PANI/CFP and bare CFP electrodes towards TEMPO mediated oxidation of pyridyl methanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic dyes are used in many industries, e.g., textile, cosmetics and food. Hence, contamination of organic dyes to water sources is a critical issue. To reduce water pollution by organic dyes, we propose a paper-like adsorbent with a practical and economical production procedure. Subsequently, a flexible adsorbent was produced using a one-step approach by vacuum filtration of graphene oxide (GO) and iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) containing dispersion through a membrane and quoted as GO/Fe3O4 paper. For comparison, GO paper was also prepared using the same procedure. Both papers were characterized using UV–VIS absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron diffraction X-ray analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and powder X-ray diffraction techniques. At the steady-state conditions, GO/Fe3O4 and GO papers were performed as adsorbent for cationic dyes of methylene blue, neutral red, and anionic dyes of methyl orange and fluorescein. In general, the removal efficiency of GO/Fe3O4 paper was higher than that of GO paper for adsorption of all dyes and this adsorbent revealed satisfactory adsorption properties for cationic dyes when compared to anionic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the agricultural by-products of corn production (corncobs) were ground into a powder form. Then, the powder was treated with sodium chlorite to remove the lignin, and the remaining holocellulose was optionally modified with 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO)-mediated oxidation. The resulting product was examined using an elemental analysis, along with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The effects of the oxidation time and dosages of the TEMPO on the paper's physical properties were investigated. The results indicated that the TEMPO-mediated oxidized corncob holocellulose had the ability to improve the properties of both paper and recycled paper. When 1.0% oxidized holocellulose was used, the resulting tensile index, burst index, and folding endurance were increased by 4.16%, 8.63%, and 50.71%, respectively, compared with the control paper. The SEM analysis indicated that the bonding between fibers was improved by adding oxidized corncob holocellulose. Compared with the control paper, it was determined that the proportion of mesopore within the fibers increased and the bonding of the C–O bonds increased in the paper with the oxidized corncob holocellulose. The results of this study may potentially provide guidance for the future high value-added application of corncobs as a paper strengthening agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were loaded onto commercial filter paper using a simple "suspending-discharging-washing" process. Nanosecond pulse dielectric barrier discharge (NP-DBD) plasma was used to perform the in-situ reduction-loading process in a plate-to-plate DBD reactor during the five-minute fabrication process. Gaseous ethanol was used as the reducing agent under an argon gas plasma treatment. There was no thermal treatment, which prefers the formation of small nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the synthesized AgNPs were well-dispersed over the surface of the filter paper. The synthesized nanoparticles were hemispherical and crystalline. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the cellulose skeletons had been mostly maintained after the plasma discharge. The catalytic activity of the AgNPs paper was evaluated by the reduction reaction of methylene blue (MB) with sodium borohydride (NaBH 4) using a straightforward filtration process. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • No toxic chemical reagents or thermal treatment are used. • Commercial filter paper is used as the support and no more treatments on the filter paper is necessary. • The fabrication is realized by a simple "suspending-discharging-washing" process. • The use of filter paper allows the liquid-phase reaction to be catalyzed through a straightforward filtering process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective and integrated method for deacidification has become an urgent issue in the conversation of paper-based materials with natural aging of books, archives and paper relics. In this research, an efficiency of innovative method for paper deacidification using subcritical R134a combined with pre-synthetic Ca(OH) 2 nanoparticles was evaluated by pH, alkaline reserve, colorimetry and tensile strength. The physicochemical properties of the deacidifying agents and paper samples before and after deacidification were characterized by XRD, SEM and FTIR. Compared with traditional spraying method for Ca(OH) 2 nanoparticles, the subcritical R134a deacidification system (due to its good solvent diffusivity and compatibility) had an obvious advantage in evaluations for all the paper samples. The innovative deacidification was expected to realize the integration of cleaning and deacidification in one working procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is generally believed that the service life of transformer oil-paper insulation is determined by the aging condition of transformer insulation paper. In order to further improve the anti-aging performance of transformer insulation paper, the cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) modified by citric acid crosslinking and melamine amidation, were used to prepare the transformer insulation paper. The insulation paper containing modified CNCs was characterized with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy. When the dosage of modified CNCs was 3.0 wt% at the beating degree of pulp of 35 °SR, compared with the reference insulation paper, the tensile index of insulation paper containing modified CNCs was increased by 17.30%, the AC breakdown strength in air and oil were increased by 12.95% and 40.28%, respectively. And the degree of polymerization of insulation paper containing modified CNCs was 50.50% higher than that of reference insulation paper at the aging time of 28 days. The melamine modified CNCs could improve the thermal aging performance of transformer insulation paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power transformer is vital to the reliability of the power grid which is most commonly insulated with Kraft paper and immersed in mineral oil, among which the aged state of the paper is mainly correlated to the operating life of the transformer. Degree of polymerization (DP) is a direct parameter to assess the aged condition of insulating paper, but existing DP measurement by viscosity methods are destructive and complicated. In this paper, terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) was introduced to reach rapid, non-destructive detection of the DP of insulating paper. The absorption spectra of insulating paper show that characteristic peak regions at 1.8 and 2.23 THz both exhibit a log-linear quantitative relationship with DP, and their universalities are confirmed by conducting the above relationship on different types of insulating paper. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and molecular dynamics modeling further revealed that 1.8 and 2.23 THz were favorably associated with the growth of water–cellulose hydrogen bond strength and amorphous cellulose, respectively. This paper demonstrates the viability of applying THz-TDS to the non-destructive detection of DP in insulating paper and assigned the vibration modes of the characteristic absorption peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to present the components' characterization and condition assessment of an important deteriorated Mamluk-illuminated paper manuscript housed in Al-Azhar Library, Egypt. Design/methodology/approach: Different analytical techniques used in this study were the portable digital optical microscope, stereomicroscope, scanning electron microscope with EDX (SEM.EDX), portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), pH measurement and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Findings: The results obtained by different microscopes showed that the gilding in the surface of illuminated paper sheets was performed with gold leaves. Additionally, these microscopes revealed that the illuminated paper manuscript has different aspects of deterioration such as adhered dirt, staining, some micro-cracks, cracks and detachment of some parts in some illuminated areas. The results of elemental analysis by EDX, portable XRF and XRD analysis showed that the orange red pigment is red lead (Pb3O4), blue pigment is azurite (2CuCo3.Cu (OH)2), and the gold layer is has consisted of brass alloy (Cu-Zn) with a small amount of gold element (Au). The pH measurement stated that the historical paper in the acidity level. The ATR-FTIR analysis also revealed the oxidation of cellulose. Moreover, it was found from ATR-FTIR that Arabic gum was used as a binder for the pigments. Originality/value: This study presents the important results of analytical methods used for condition assessment and identification of the components of an important Mamluk-illuminated paper manuscript, where these results referred that the studied paper manuscript had different aspects of deterioration. The conservation steps either conservation treatment or preventive conservation are urgently needed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the composite cross-linked were used to consolidate the dyed paper manuscripts. Nanocomposites of mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MPSNP)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/PVA, which have never been used before, have been evaluated for the consolidation process of the dyed paper manuscripts with madder extract. Three concentrations 1%, 3%, and 5% have been prepared. Analysis and investigation methods like scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic light scattering analysis (DLS), X-Ray diffraction Analysis (XRD), atomic force microscope (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and total color difference (ΔE) by spectrophotometer have been used in order to characterize the prepared nano-sized composites and evaluate the treated dyed paper samples before and after the aging process. The results of surface morphology by SEM revealed the effectiveness of MPSNP/PVA core–shell nanocomposite at 5% in the consolidation process, where the improvement of properties of the aged dyed paper samples. The fibers of the treated paper became strong and appeared clearly. The result of ΔE measurements showed that the treated sample with MPSNP/PVA nanocomposite at 5% gave the lowest ΔE (5.22), while, the treated sample with CNF/PVA nanocomposite at 5% gave the highest ΔE value (11.66). Mechanical measurements (tensile strength and elongation) revealed the efficiency of MPSNP/PVA nanocomposite at 5% in the treatment of the aged dyed paper samples. The treated sample with the mentioned material gave tensile strength and elongation values of 84.8 N/nm2 and 1.736%, respectively. In contrast, the treated sample with CNF/PVA nanocomposite at 1% gave the lowest tensile strength and elongation values 38.2 N/nm2, and 1.166%, respectively. FTIR analysis revealed an increase was noticed in the CH2 stretching band (refers to the crystallinity of cellulose), where the intensity of the treated sample with MPSNP/PVA nanocomposite was at a 5% increase compared to the control sample. The FTIR results supported the results of mechanical measurements. The intensity of the CH2 stretching band, which refers to the crystallinity index of cellulose, was increased with the use of MPSNP/PVA nanocomposite at 3% and 5%, which explains the improvement in mechanical properties. This may be due to the nano-mineral particles, which improve the mechanical properties. Additionally, they reduce the effect of accelerated thermal aging on the cellulosic fibers and give them stability. The detailed analysis of analytical methods used for evaluation revealed the novelty of MPSNP/PVA nanocomposite, especially at 5%. It has a potential role in strengthening and improving different properties of the dyed paper manuscripts with madder extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports the fabrication of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/gold nanoparticles (AuNP) nanocomposites modified cellulose fiber paper‐based electrochemical biosensor for procalcitonin (PCT) biomarker detection. PCT is a biomarker specific for bacterial infection (BI) detection and has gained much attention as a potential solution to the problems associated with determining appropriate antibiotic use. In sepsis and other severe infections, serum PCT levels increase to values above 100 ng mL−1 in response to pro‐inflammatory stimulation. The structural and morphological characterization of the rGO‐AuNP composite are investigated using UV‐Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Monoclonal antibodies specific to PCT were covalently immobilized onto the rGO‐AuNP nanocomposite modified paper to fabricate an electrochemical biosensor. The fabricated biosensor exhibits linearity in the PCT concentration range 10 −15×103 pg mL−1, with a low detection limit 10 pg mL−1. Furthermore, the proposed biosensor also exhibited good selectivity and could detect PCT biomarkers even in the presence of other interfering electroactive species such as glucose, oxalic acid, and urea. The proposed CF‐based biosensor has been proven as an accelerated simple point‐of‐care (POC) exploratory approach for early PCT diagnosis in inadequate areas with limited production facilities, computational techniques, and highly skilled experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the development of an electrochemical paper-based analytical device (ePAD) for the detection of methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a stimulant that young people use as an addictive narcotic, and it must be detected quickly since it may be hazardous. The suggested ePAD has the advantages of being simple, affordable, and recyclable. This ePAD was developed by immobilizing a methamphetamine-binding aptamer onto Ag-ZnO nanocomposite electrodes. The Ag-ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized via a chemical method and were further characterized via scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-vis spectrometry in terms of their size, shape, and colloidal activity. The developed sensor showed a limit of detection of about 0.1 μg/mL, with an optimum response time of about 25 s, and its extensive linear range was between 0.01 and 6 μg/mL. The application of the sensor was recognized by spiking different beverages with methamphetamine. The developed sensor has a shelf life of about 30 days. This cost-effective and portable platform might prove to be highly successful in forensic diagnostic applications and will benefit those who cannot afford expensive medical tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]