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Sulfur (S) deprivation leads to abiotic stress in plants. This can have a significant impact on membrane lipids, illustrated by a change in either the lipid class and/or the fatty acid distribution. Three different levels of S (deprivation, adequate, and excess) in the form of potassium sulfate were used to identify individual thylakoid membrane lipids, which might act as markers in S nutrition (especially under stress conditions). The thylakoid membrane consists of the three glycolipid classes: monogalactosyl- (MGDG), digalactosyl- (DGDG), and sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerols (SQDG). All of them have two fatty acids linked, differing in chain length and degree of saturation. LC-ESI-MS/MS served as a powerful method to identify trends in the change in individual lipids and to understand strategies of the plant responding to stress. Being a good model plant, but also one of the most important fresh-cut vegetables in the world, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) has already been shown to respond significantly to different states of sulfur supply. The results showed a transformation of the glycolipids in lettuce plants and trends towards a higher degree of saturation of the lipids and an increased level of oxidized SQDG under S-limiting conditions. Changes in individual MGDG, DGDG, and oxidized SQDG were associated to S-related stress for the first time. Promisingly, oxidized SQDG might even serve as markers for further abiotic stress factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ion chromatography technique with conductivity detection was selected as an analytical tool for the simultaneous indirect determination of sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate via their respective cations. The method was developed and validated for the quantitative assay of the inorganic salts under study in oral pharmaceutical dosage forms. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Dionex®IonPac® CS16 column (250 × 5 mm) column using the gradient elution method. A mobile phase-A consisting of methane sulfonic acid (6.7%, v/v) in Milli-Q water, which is used together with Milli-Q water, was used as a mobile Phase-B. The flow rate was 1.2 mL/min. The retention times of sodium, potassium, and magnesium as sulfates were 7.8, 12.8, and 16.2 min, respectively. The method was validated according to ICH guidelines and showed good linearity and accuracy results within concentration ranges of 80.0–240.0, 20.0–60.0, and 4.5–13.5 ppm for sodium, potassium, and magnesium as sulfates, respectively. The relative standard deviation results for intra- and inter-day precision were less than 1.0%. The method was applied successfully for determination of the analytes under study in their mixed pharmaceutical oral solution and found suitable for their routine and stability analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study is to develop a green dyeing process using Corchorus olitorius dye extract. Corchorus olitorius leaves were used as a new dyestuff source that has never been used for cotton fabric dyeing. Dye extraction was performed using a non-conventional clean process containing ethanol in an ultrasound bath. The extracted dye was applied to cotton fabric in a bath exhaustion process. The effect of dyeing parameters on the color strength of dyed fabric was studied. A response surface methodology design was used to optimize the dyeing process. The results showed that pH, dyeing temperature, and dyeing time significantly affect the dyed fabric. The optimum dyeing parameters were found at 90°C in a bath pH of 9 for 90 min. Finally, to improve the color strength, and the color-fastness, three mordanting processes, and three different mordants were used. Results show that pre-mordanted dyed cotton fabric using aluminum potassium sulfate produces the best fastness properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted for two cropping seasons during 2016–19 at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, with the objectives to study the effect of i) K nutrition and variable sources of K on growth analysis of sugarcane ratoon crop, ii) the response of K on the photosynthetic rate of crop and iii) contribution of K on yield attributes, sugarcane, and sugar yields. Mean results of two cropping seasons indicated that the application of potassium brought forth a 12.08% improvement in tiller population over no K (107.3 thousand/ha). Potassium application through K2SO4 (SOP) showed the highest net rate of photosynthesis (15.28 µmol/m2/s) which was about 30.71% higher than the control. Among the various sources of K, SOP was found the best in improving sugarcane and sugar yields. Application of SOP resulted in 18.69% ratoon cane yield improvement over the control. Application of 75% K through K2SO4 resulted in a higher sugar yield (12.01 t/ha) which was 25.76% higher than the control (9.55 t/ha). Potassium ammonium sulfate (PAS) and murate of potash could not produce better results as compared to K2SO4. Potassium application through SOP showed the highest net rate of photosynthesis (15.28 µmol/m2/s) during the grand growth phase. Application of 50.4 kg K/ha (75% more than recommended) through K2SO4 increased 18.69% sugarcane (106.7 t/ha) and 25.76% (12.01 t/ha) sugar yields over the control (no K) and was found to the best and could be recommended for improving sugarcane and sugar yields of ratoon in subtropical India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) is a cucurbitaceous plant of great social and economic importance in Brazil, especially in the north-eastern region. However, anthropic actions through the practice of irrigation, fertigation and fertilization in an inadequate way, have potentiated the salinization of the soil becoming this one of the main factors that limit the production and the quality of the fruits. In this work, the effects of the application of mineral fertilization on the salinization of soil cultivated with watermelon were evaluated. The experiment was performed in the city of Petrolina-PE, with four repetitions, using five treatments: (T0) no fertilization, (T1) NPK fertilization, (T2) average dose of NPK practiced by producers, (T3) maximum dose of NPK from producers having potassium chloride as a source of potassium and (T4) maximum dose of NPK from producers having potassium sulfate as a source of potassium, at two different depths: 0.00 - 0.20 m and 0.20 - 0.60 m. The soil chemical attributes analyzed were pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium. The increase in the continuous application of mineral fertilizers raised the electrical conductivity values of the soil to levels prejudicial to the crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium is an essential nutrient for the physiological and biochemical activities of a plant. Therefore, an adequate dose and source of this nutrient can increase zucchini squash production. This study aimed to evaluate the yield response of the zucchini squash cultivar 'Caserta' to different doses and sources of potassium. The experiment was conducted under field conditions in a completely randomized block experimental design in a 6 × 2 factorial scheme, with six K2O doses (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg ha-1) and two sources (potassium chloride and potassium sulfate), with four replicates. Fruit mass, fruit length, number of fruits per plant, and total and marketable fruit yields were evaluated. Fertilization with potassium sulfate and chloride sources increased fruit length and the number of fruits per plant. Potassium (K2O) fertilization using potassium sulfate resulted in higher mass and total fruit yield. K2O doses of 108.41 and 130.78 kg ha-1 in the potassium chloride and sulfate sources, respectively, provided the maximum marketable yield of fruits, at 22.84 and 27.0 t ha-1, respectively. Doses of 108.41 kg ha-1 of potassium chloride and 130.78 kg ha-1 of potassium sulfate are recommended for a better commercial yield, with potassium sulfate being the best recommendation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ambiente e Água is the property of Revista Ambiente e Agua 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 Academic Journal of Agriculture / Akademik Ziraat Dergisi is the property of University of Ordu, Faculty of Agriculture, Academic Journal of Agriculture 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.)

Potassium (K) is a critical plant nutrient that determines quality in a myriad of crops and increases production yields. However, excessive application of various types of K fertilizers can decrease both the food quality and yields, which translates as economic losses and food safety issues. The objectives of this study were to 1) elucidate the impacts of different application rates of various K fertilizers on garlic, with the aim to identify the optimal and most economical K fertilizer dosage and 2) compare the effects of applying two common K fertilizers (KCl and K2SO4) on garlic, to determine the optimal combination. From 2018 to 2020, we utilized two distinct K-fertilized fields to conduct our experiments. The results revealed optimal KCl fertilization increased the biomass and vegetation index in garlic, and promoted the transfer of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients from the stem and leaf to bulb, thereby increasing bulb production. The application of KCl fertilizer increased the number of cloves, the diameters of the cloves and bulbs, and reduced variations in bulb size. In addition, the application of KCl fertilizer improved the nutritional quality (Vitamin C, soluble sugar, soluble protein, and allicin) of the garlic and reduced the accumulation of nitrate. However, excessive KCl fertilizer cause decreased yields, appearance traits, and nutritional quality. Applying the same rate of K fertilizer in the form of K2SO4 in isolation increased the garlic yield by only 0.1% to 22.5% when compared with KCl fertilizer. However, the results were not always significant. In this study, the highest yields, appearance traits, and nutritional quality were achieved with the ratio of K2SO4: KCl = 3:1. Consequently, to ensure the highest economic value (considering the market prices of K fertilizer, garlic sprouts, and bulbs), the authors recommend a K fertilizer rate of 252.5 kg·ha−1 K2O, with K2SO4 accounting for 61.6% for garlic production in field.

The impact of exogenous sulfate components on the nutritional quality of vegetables has been well documented. In this study, we examined the effects of adding K2SO4 to broccoli on its nutritional quality, active components, and the genes involved in glucosinolate synthesis. Different concentrations of exogenous K2SO4 of 25, 75, and 150 g·m−2 were applied to the “Naihan Youxiu” broccoli cultivar, while the control treatment received no potassium sulfate. Our primary objective was to gain insights into strategies for enhancing broccoli’s nutritional and active components. The results showed that broccoli’s vitamin C content in each treatment was lower than that in the control treatment. The contents of soluble protein, soluble sugar, polyphenols, and total flavonoids in the treatment of 150 g·m−2 K2SO4 were the highest. They increased by 23.51%, 87.49%, 146.00%, and 22.73% more than the control, respectively. MDA was significantly inhibited after the 75 g·m−2 treatment, whereas SOD had the highest activity under the 75 g·m−2 treatment. Therefore, the 150 g·m−2 treatment was beneficial in improving the nutritional quality and antioxidant capacity of broccoli. The contents of PRO, SIN, NAP, GBC, 4ME, NEO, total indole glucosinolates, and total glucosinolates reached the peak at the 150 g·m−2 K2SO4 treatment, RAA and total aliphatic glucosinolates reached the peak at the 75 g·m−2 K2SO4 treatment, and ERU and 4OH reached the highest at the 25 g·m−2 K2SO4 treatment. The sulforaphane content was the highest in the 150 g·m−2 treatment, and myrosinase activity was the highest in the 75 g·m−2 treatment. It can be seen that the 150 g·m−2 treatment significantly increased the content of glucosinolates, total indole glucosinolates, total glucosinolates, and sulforaphane in broccoli. CYP79B2, CYP83B1, CYP83A1, AOP2, UGT74B1, and MYB34 were significantly up-regulated under 150 g·m−2 K2SO4 treatment and reached the peak value. CYP79F1, CYP81F4, and MAM1 showed significant inhibitory effects when treated with 150 g·m−2 of K2SO4. The expression levels of BCAT4, CYP81F1, ST5a, ST5c, and SUR1 were down-regulated under the 150 g·m−2 K2SO4 treatment, but not significantly. In summary, the K2SO4 150 g·m−2 treatment had the best effect on nutritional quality, antioxidant activity, the content of glucosinolates, total glucosinolates, sulforaphane, and expression of CYP79B2, CYP83B1, CYP83A1, FMO2, UGT74B1, AOP2, and MYB34 genes.

The application of potassium fertilizers is an essential practice to obtain a high yield, especially in vegetables such as potatoes. The potato has high efficiency in the absorption and accumulation of nutrients. Thus, the objective was to evaluate, under the conditions of the Cristalina—Goiás, Brazil, the influence of time of foliar application of potassium sulfate in potato development. The experiments were carried out from March to June 2017, using Agata and Atlantic potato cultivars; and from June to October 2017, using Atlantic potato cultivar. The statistical method used was the randomized complete block design, with six treatments (without application; at 42; at 56; at 42 and 56; at 56 and 70; at 42, 56, and 70 days after planting) and four repetitions. At 75 days after planting the leaves of experimental plots were sampled to quantify the macro and micronutrients content. At the end of the experiments, tuber yield and qualitative characteristics were evaluated. The Atlantic cultivar showed a greater accumulation of nutrients than the Agata cultivar, in the March to June cultivation. The best productive performances of special class are related to application at 42, 56, and 70 days after planting in the cultivar Agata, at 56 and 70 DAP in the cultivar Atlantic (cultivation from June to October), and at 42 and 56 days after planting in Atlantic (cultivation from March to June). The treatments that stood out in the special class also reflect greater soluble solids in relation to the control for the cultivar Atlantic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The KLa(SO4)2–SrSO4 system has been studied at temperatures above 600°C by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The results demonstrate that the system contains a broad range (0–70 mol % KLa(SO4)2) of solid solutions based on the orthorhombic phase β-SrSO4 (sp. gr. Pnma). We have determined the unit-cell parameters of the solid solutions. Their unit-cell volume has been shown to increase systematically from 307.67(6) to 313.54(21) Å3 in the composition range studied. The solid solutions result from heterovalent substitution of potassium and lanthanum ions for two strontium ions and decompose above a temperature of 950°C to form the SO3 and La2O3 oxides and potassium and strontium sulfates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although northern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) fields are often fertigated using soluble or liquid fertilizers, recommendations for applying most nutrients to the crop, including K, are based on the use of granular fertilizers. The objective of the present study was to compare fertigation to granular application of K in a mature planting of Duke, a popular early season blueberry cultivar that ripens from June through July in Oregon and Washington. The plants were grown on raised beds and irrigated using two lines of drip tubing per row. Treatments were initiated in 2016 and included no K fertilizer, a single application of granular potassium sulfate (K2SO4) in April, and fertigation once a week from April to August with soluble K2SO4 or liquid potassium thiosulfate (K2SO3). Each treatment was applied for 2 years at a total rate of 70 kg·ha-1 K per year. The plants were also fertigated with 168 and 224 kg·ha-1 N in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and 30 kg·ha-1 P per year. Although extractable soil K was initially low at the site (144 mg·kg-1 ), the treatments had no effect on plant dry weight, yield, fruit quality, or the concentration of K in recently expanded leaves. However, during the first year of the study, K fertigation with K2SO4 or K2SO3 reduced soil pH and increased the concentrations of K+, Ca2+, Mn2+, and SO4 22 in the soil solution under the drip emitters compared with no K or granular K2SO4, whereas granular application of K2SO4 resulted in higher concentrations of K+ between the emitters than any other treatment. Fertigation also affected the concentration of K in the fruit during the first year, although in this case, the concentration was lower with K fertigation than with no K or granular applications of K2SO4. During the second year, fertigation and granular K continued to result in higher concentrations of K+ in soil solution under and between the drip emitters, respectively, but at this point, extractable soil K was higher with each of the K fertilizers than with no K. Consequently, the concentration of K in leaves sampled from entire plants in late September that year was higher with any of the K fertilizers than with no K. Potassium fertilization also altered concentrations of other nutrients in the plants, including Mg, S, B, Cu, and Mn in the leaves; Ca, Mg, and B in the fruit; Mn and Zn in the woody canes; and P, Mg, S, and Mn in the crown. In many cases, concentrations of these nutrients were higher with one or more of the K fertilizers than with no K. Thus, regardless of the application method, K2SO4 and K2SO3 appear to be good sources for increasing availability of K and other nutrients in the plants and soil. However, the amount of K in the plants was sufficient at the site, and therefore, none of the fertilizers provided a short-term benefit to growth or fruit production in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We develop a clean method of recovering valuable metals from spent LiCoO 2 batteries. • Li is selectively extracted by potassium pyrosulfate roasting and water leaching. • The method achieves a high Li recovery rate and no SO x emissions. • The reaction mechanisms governing metal transformation are elucidated. • Li 2 CO 3 (>99.5 % pure) and Co 3 O 4 (>99.5 % pure) are obtained as valuable products. Recycling critical metals from spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) is important for the overall sustainability of future batteries. This study reports an improved sulfation roasting technology to efficiently recycle Li and Co from spent LiCoO 2 LIBs using potassium pyrosulfate as sulfurizing reagent. By sulfation roasting, LiCoO 2 was converted into water-soluble lithium potassium sulfate and water-insoluble cobalt oxide. Under optimal conditions, 98.51% Li was leached in water, with a selectivity of 99.86%. More importantly, sulfur can be recirculated thoroughly, and the sulfur atomic efficiency can be significantly enhanced by controlling the amount of potassium pyrosulfate. Li ions from the water leaching process were recovered by chemical precipitation. Furthermore, application of this technology to other spent LIBs, such as LiMn 2 O 4 and LiNi 0.5 Co 0.2 Mn 0.3 O 2 , verified its effectiveness for selective recovery Li. These findings can provide some inspiration for high efficiency and environmentally friendly recovery metal from spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was to optimize the optimal conditions for determination of crude protein content in feed by semiautomatic Kjeldahl apparatus. Wheat bran and meal were used as experiment material. On the premise of adding selenium powder, the effect of different digestion temperature, mixed catalyst (selenium powder + potassium sulfate + copper sulfate) dosage, sulfuric acid dosage, digestion time and distillation time on crude protein content were determined to optimize the best determination conditions. The comparison test of optimized conditions and the national standard method was carried out. The results showed that the accuracy and reproducibility of crude protein content of two diets were good under the conditions of digestion temperature 400 ℃, amount of catalyst 3.0 g, the amount of concentrated sulfuric acid of 10 mL, the digestion time of 1.5 h, and the distillation time of 5 min. The nitrogen content and recovery of ammonium sulfate were 21.19% and 99.95%, respectively. The optimized method and the national standard method have no obvious influence on the results of crude protein determination, but the optimized method could reduce the amount of catalyst, save concentrated sulfuric acid, reduce the digestion temperature, shorten the digestion time. The study indicates that the optimized conditions provide a certain reference for the determination of crude protein with high efficiency and low consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out during the winter seasons of 2018/19 and 2019/20 at Agricultural Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agricultural, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt. To assess the effect of two furrow irrigation practices (conventional; CFI, and alternate; AFI), three rabbit manure application rates (R0, R1 and R2) and three potassium sulfate levels (KS0, KS1, and KS2) on potato yield and its macronutrient contents and on some water relations. Also to develop local potato crop coefficient (Kc). The experiment was laid out in split-split plots design with three replicates. The obtained results indicated that, the CFI practice with R0KS0 realized the highest amount of both WCU and IWA through both seasons, it was 5399.7 and 7523.4 m³ ha-1, respectively. While the lowest amount of WCU and IWA were obtained by AFI practices with R2KS2 through both seasons it was 4063.7 and 5455.8 m³ ha-1, respectively. The highest values of both irrigation and crop water productivity were attained by AFI with R2KS2 through both seasons it was 9.42 and 7.02 kg m-3, respectively. While the lowest values were obtained by CFI with R0KS0 through both seasons for the corresponding parameters it was 4.42 and 3.16 kg m-3, respectively. Kc value started to increase at the beginning to reach its maximum value (Kc mid) at the time of near mature plant, it varied from: 0.63, 0.70, 1.03 and 0.98 for initial, development, mid and end season stages, respectively. The highest amount of saved water (28.23%) was attained by AFI practices with R2KS2 through both seasons compared to CFI with R0KS0. Generally, the potato tuber yields and N, P, K content were significantly influenced by furrow irrigation practices, as well as by adding rabbit manure and potassium sulfate, the highest yields were 37.87 and 38.35 ton ha-1 for first and second seasons, respectively under AFI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Glasnik Zastite Bilja is the property of Zadruzna Stampa D.D. 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.)

Today, in the times of economic uncertainty and unpredictability, it is important to respond to new challenges in a timely manner, using relevant tools to make effective management decisions. In the world practice, one of such tools for effective management of an industrial enterprise project is PEST-analysis, the functionality of which is considered in this paper. The study purpose is to conduct PEST-analysis, review and analyze the factors affecting the development of the Nivensky GOK (Mining and Concentration Complex), located in the Kaliningrad region – an export-oriented investment project to build a new industrial enterprise with core production of a premium mineral fertilizer, potassium sulfate. Based on the analysis, the paper proposes a number of feasible preventive measures for mitigating effects of negative factors, as well as for the development of strengths of the Nivensky GOK’s company-operator, “K-Potash Service” LLC. Thus, PEST-analysis of key micro- and macroeconomic factors allowed to comprehensively assess the position of Nivensky GOK in the emerging mining-and-chemical industry of Kaliningrad region. The study established the degree of influence of other internal and external factors on the company as well, including the possibilities of introducing new innovative techniques in the industrial enterprise operation, trends in the development of the mineral fertilizer market, taking into account the geopolitical context. Conclusions, recommendations and proposals allow evaluating the company and the possibilities of its development for making strategic and long-term decisions on the project development. The main results of the study can be used as effective tools for optimizing development of the new industrial enterprise project, Nivensky GOK.

Processes of conversion of copper-sulfide concentrate by low-temperature sintering of the concentrate without the addition of chemical reagents and subsequent cake leaching with water are studied. The regimes of sintering of the concentrate are worked out. Copper-sulfate- and iron-containing cake are obtained as final products after cake leaching and filtration. The emission of sulfur-containing gases into the atmosphere is excluded due to their absorption by KOH with the formation of potassium sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

κ-Carrageenan (CG) was employed to mask the bitterness induced by 50% KCl in surimi gels to achieve salt reduction and gel performance improvement. The combination of KCl and CG (KCl + CG) yielded the increased textural characteristics and water-holding capacity (WHC) of surimi gels and facilitated the transition of free water to immobilized water. In addition, the KCl + CG supplement increased the turbidity and particle size of myofibrillar protein (MP) sols but decreased the surface hydrophobicity in a dose-dependent manner. The hydrophobic interactions and disulfide bonds played crucial roles in maintaining the stability of MP gels. The specific binding of potassium ions to the sulfate groups of CG limited the release and diffusion of potassium ions from the surimi gels during oral processing, effectively masking the bitterness perception and maintaining the saltiness perception. This study provides a promising strategy to reduce the utilization of sodium salt in surimi products. • KCl + CG endowed surimi gels with superior texture and water-holding capacity. • KCl + CG promoted the rearrangement of hydrophobic regions to form compact network. • The specific binding of potassium ions to CG could mask the bitterness perception. • KCl + CG could achieve salt reduction in surimi gels without compromising quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel sulfated polysaccharides (SPs), N10 and K5 were isolated from ammonium sulfate or potassium sulfate at concentrations of 10 mM and 5 mM in liquid cultures of Antrodia cinnamomea, respectively. N10 and K5 were galactoglucans with a galactose:glucose molar ratio of approximately 1:3. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, N10 and K5 exhibited strong anti-inflammatory potential, of 56 % and 23 % maximal inhibition of IL-6 and TNF-α production, respectively. Mechanical analysis revealed differences between N10 and K5, with N10 inhibiting the LPS-stimulated phosphorylation of ERK and p38 in RAW264.7 cells. K5 inhibited the LPS-stimulated phosphorylation of AKT and TGFβR-II. N10 and K5 were fragmented into F1, F2, and F3, the molecular weights of which were 455, 24, 0.9, and 327, 36, 1.9 kDa, respectively. K5 F2 and K5 F3 exhibited high degrees of sulfation of 1:3 and 1:8, resulting in strong anti-inflammation, of 83 % and 37 % highest inhibition of IL-6 and TNF-α production, respectively. Therefore, low-molecular-weight and high-sulfation-degree SPs exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity. Specifically, K5 F2 inhibited the phosphorylation of p38, and K5 F3 suppressed the signaling pathway of p38/JNK. Overall, the sulfation degree of SPs is concluded to affect the anti-inflammatory responses. • Two novel SPs of N10 and K5 showed anti-inflammatory activities. • K5 showed a higher sulfation degree and anti-inflammatory activity. • Fragmenting N10 and K5 increases their anti-inflammatory potential. • K5 (F2 and F3) have the highest anti-inflammatory activity, inhibiting IL-6 and TNF-α. • Low molecular weight SPs is more effective than high molecular weight SPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The polyaniline film's morphology and performance were improved by using potassium polyvinyl sulfate as a soft template. • A large-area electrochromic device with a size of 20 × 20 cm ² was prepared. • The device achieved emissivity changes of 0.55 (3-5 μm), 0.46 (8-14 μm) and 0.46 (2.5-15 μm). • At a background temperature of 70 ℃, the device achieved an infrared temperature change of 10.4 ℃. • The electrochemical activity of the device did not decay in a high-temperature environment of 30 ℃ to 70 ℃. In the development of polyaniline (PANI) based large-area broadband electrochromic devices, we employed a controlled deposition process using potassium polyvinyl sulfate (PVSK) as a template to regulate the morphology of PANI. This resulted in consistent spherical particle morphology and heightened electrochemical activity in PVSK-PANI films. The simple structure of PVSK, coupled with its similar IR absorption to polyethylene and sulfuric acid, mitigated any detrimental effects on the broadband electrochromic properties. In small-area (2 × 2 cm²) PVSK-PANI electrochromic devices, we observed maximum emissivity changes of 0.47, 0.51, and 0.49 in the 3-5 μm, 8-14 μm, and 2.5-15 μm ranges, respectively. Expanding our approach to large-area devices (20 × 20 cm2), we achieved even more promising results. The PVSK-PANI based electrochromic devices achieved maximum emissivity changes of 0.55, 0.46, and 0.46 within the same spectral ranges of 3-5 μm, 8-14 μm, and 2.5-15 μm, respectively. Notably, these large-area electrochromic devices demonstrated a remarkable capacity to modulate infrared temperature by up to 10.4 °C at a background temperature of 70 °C. By introducing PVSK as a soft template during the electrochemical deposition process of PANI, the micro-morphology of PANI is effectively controlled. This has led to the fabrication of a high-performance, large-area (20 × 20 cm²) ECD. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industrial Minerals & Processing / Huagong Kuangwu yu Jiagong is the property of Industrial Minerals & Processing Editorial Office 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.)

Potassium (K) is present in higher concentrations than other macronutrients in cherry fruits and is most often associated with changes in fruit quality. This study was carried out in the Sultandağı district of Afyon province between 2015 and 2017 in the cultivation "ziraat 900" sweet cherry cultivar grafted Prunus padus rootstock on aged 15–20 years. The effects of soil K applications (as potassium sulfate (K2SO4) on sweet cherry quality and mineral content were investigated. Different concentrations of K2SO4 (0, 500, 1000, and 1500 g trees−1) were applied under the canopy at one time before full bloom. After harvested fruit length, fruit weight, flesh firmness, water-soluble dry matter (WDM), and mineral content [Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Phosphorus (P), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn)] were determined. Fruit quality criteria (fruit length, weight, flesh firmness, and WDM content), fruit K and Cu contents values increased depending on the application of K. It was observed that fruit length increased by 9%, fruit weight by 23%, flesh firmness by 24% and WDM content by 20% due to K applications. Potassium application decreased the content of Ca and Mg. This study indicates that the application of K caused an increase in the fruit quality of the sweet cherry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to reduce the damage caused by late-season drought stress of canola, a factorial split plot experiment was performed on the basis of the randomized complete blocks design with three replications in Karaj, Iran. The treatments were Potassium sulfate in two levels, including application and non-application of potassium sulfate, irrigation at three levels including normal irrigation (control), restricted irrigation from the flowering and pod formation stage, as factorial were in main plots and winter canola cultivars including Opera, L72, KR1, GKH3705, GKH0224 were in subplots. The interaction effect of potassium sulfate × irrigation × cultivar on plant height, number of pods per the main stem, number of pods per branch, number of pods per plant, seed yield, and seed oil yield was significant at the 1% level. In conditions of applying potassium sulfate and irrigation interruption from the flowering stage, Opera cultivar had the highest seed yield with a mean of 3715 kg ha−1. In conditions of not applying potassium sulfate and under normal irrigation (control), the promising line of L72 with a mean of 6169 kg ha−1, and in the late season drought stress (irrigation interruption from the pod formation and flowering stages), the opera cultivar with the means of 4763 and 3468 kg ha−1 had the highest seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The date palm fruit is a rich dietary food of human, in particular people lived in arid and semiarid regions of the world. In the present research, the influence of combined urea and potassium sulfate on chemical attributes fruit of 'Zahedi' cultivar during the fruit maturation growth in 2018 and 2019 was carried out as factorial experiment based on complete randomized block design (CRBD) with 3 replications. Urea source was N that applied at the 0, 0.5 and 1% concentrations which each level of urea embed with 3 different rates (0, 0.5, 1%) of potassium sulfate. The combination then sprayed at Hababouk and Chimri growth stages of the fruit development. The composition of urea and potassium sulfate reflected a significant quantity of N and indicated that application of 1% urea 1% potassium sulfate tended to incentive the greatest carotenoid at the Khalal. In overall, the combined spraying of urea and potassium sulfate resulted in chemical attributes improvement. Additionally, the results demonstrated that various changes among the different chemical qualities mainly depends on the maturity stage. Total soluble sugars, total acidity, starch, antioxidant activity, soluble tannin, total phenolic content, N, K, carotenoid generally exhibited a decreasing trend from Chimri to Tamar stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental 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 Journal of Textiles & Engineers / Tekstil ve Mühendis is the property of Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers & Architects, Chamber of Textile Engineers 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.)

Potassium aluminum sulfate (alum) is a known adjuvant, which has been used as a mordant in textile industry for color fixation. This material has potential to be incorporated into dentistry for color stability, yet its toxicity first needs to be evaluated. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of potassium aluminum sulfate (alum) on fibroblasts when applied onto feldspathic ceramic before and after thermocycling. Forty-eight feldspathic ceramic specimens were divided into four groups (FC: no alum application or thermocycling; FCT: thermocycling without alum application; FA: alum application without thermocycling; FAT: alum application and thermocycling) (n = 12). Cell viability was assessed by using a tetrazolium salt 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphnyltetrazolium bromide assay at 24 and 72 h, and cell cultures without any ceramic specimens served as control (C). One sample from each material group was further analyzed with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Cell viability at different time intervals within each group was analyzed with Friedman tests, while Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to compare the test groups within each time interval. Pairwise comparisons were further resolved by using Wilcoxon tests (a = 0.05). C had lower (p = 0.01) and FA had higher (p = 0.019) cell viability after 72 h. After 24 h, the highest cell viability was observed in C (p ≤ 0.036). After 72 h, the differences between C and FA, C and FAT, FC and FA, and FCT and FAT were nonsignificant (p > 0.05). Cell viability was not affected by alum application or thermocycling at any time interval (p ≥ 0.631). EDX analysis showed an increase in potassium concentration in FA and FAT when compared with FC and FCT. Regardless of the time interval, alum application onto feldspathic ceramic and thermocycling did not influence the cell viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the use of statistical approaches, i.e., Box–Bhenken designs, are becoming very effective for developing and optimizing pharmaceutical drug formulations. In the current work, a Box–Bhenken design was employed using Design Expert version 11 to develop, evaluate, and optimize a hydrogel-based formulation for sustained release of an antiviral drug, i.e., favipiravir. The hydrogels were prepared using the free radical polymerization technique. β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD), N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA), acrylic acid (AA), and potassium per sulfate (KPS) were used as oligomer, crosslinker, monomer, and initiator, respectively. Three variables, including β-CD (X1), MBA (X2), and AA (X3) were used at various concentrations for the preparation of hydrogels, followed by evaluation of a sol–gel fraction, swelling, porosity, chemical compatibilities, in vitro drug release, and entrapment efficiency. The results of the studies revealed that the degree of swelling was pH dependent, the best swelling being at pH 7.2 (1976%). On the other hand, for the low sol fraction of 0.2%, the reasonable porosity made the hydrogel capable of loading 99% favipiravir, despite its hydrophobic nature. The maximum entrapment efficiency (99%) was observed in optimized hydrogel formulation (F15). Similarly, in vitro drug release studies showed that the prepared hydrogels exhibited a good, sustained release effect till the 24th hour. The kinetic modelling of drug release data revealed that the Korsmeyer–Peppas model was best fit model, describing a diffusion type of drug release from the prepared hydrogels. Conclusively, the outcomes predict that the hydrogel-based system could be a good choice for developing a sustained-release, once-daily dosage form of favipiravir for improved patient compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit color is a decisive factor in consumers' preference. The bright red color of litchi fruit is associated with its high anthocyanin; however, poor fruit coloration is a major obstacle in litchi plantation. The role of spraying mineral nutrient salts such as KH2PO4, KCl, K2SO4, and MgSO4 on litchi pericarp pigmentation was examined by a field trial, and the relation between human visual color preference versus pericarp pigments and hue-saturation-brightness (HSB) color parameters was investigated. K2SO4-sprayed litchi fruit gained the maximum popularity for its attractive red color. Spray of K and Mg salts decreased the buildup of yellowish pigments, but increased the accumulation of red ones, with the exception of slightly reduced anthocyanins in KH2PO4-sprayed fruit, by regulating the activities of enzymes involved in anthocyanidin metabolism and decreasing pericarp pH, leading to varied pericarp pigment composition. K2SO4 spray generated the highest percentage of cyanidin-3-glucoside over all pigments in pericarp. Correlation analysis shows the percent of cyanidin-3-glucoside, superior to anthocyanin concentration and HSB color parameters, was a reliable indicator to fruit color preference. This work demonstrates that spray of suitable mineral salt can regulate pericarp pigment profile, and is an effective approach to improve fruit pigmentation and promote its popularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two field experiments were carried out on a private farm at Wadi El-Natrun (latitude of 30.48° N and longitude of 30.50° E), Beheira Governorate, Egypt, in the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 seasons, to find out the effect of adding zeolite as a soil conditioner and potassium fertilizer on growth, yield, and quality of sugar beet crop (Beta vulgaris L. var. saccharifera) grown in sandy soil conditions. The present work included 12 treatments, which were the combinations of four zeolite levels (Zero, 476, 952, and 1,428 kg ha-1), and three levels of potassium in the form of potassium sulfate (119, 178.5, and 238 kg K2SO4 ha-1), which were added as a soil application. The treatments were arranged in a complete block design in a split plot with four replications. The results showed that higher values of the photosynthetic pigments, root diameter, fresh and foliage weights plant-1, as well as, sucrose and extracted sugar percentages, quality index, yields of the root, top, and sugar ha-1, were obtained by adding 1,428 kg zeolite, compared with the other levels of zeolite, in both seasons. However, sodium, alpha-amino N contents in the root, and sugar lost to molasses% were insignificantly affected by zeolite rates in both seasons. Application of 238 kg K2SO4 ha-1 significantly resulted in the highest values of photosynthetic pigments, root dimensions, sucrose%, and root potassium content. In addition, extracted sugar %, quality index, root, top, and sugar yields ha-1 were increased compared with the other lower K-sulphate levels in both seasons. On the contrary, sugar lost to molasses% was insignificantly affected by applied potassium sulfate in both seasons. The maximum values of root diameter, fresh weight, yields of root and top ha-1 in both seasons, and also sugar yield in the second season were produced from the interaction between applying 1,428 kg zeolite and 238 kg potassium sulfate ha1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Continuous crystallization via indirect cooling of potassium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate (KAl(SO4)2·12H2O) was carried out using a draft tube‐type crystallizer with a circulation flow path. The crystallizer was equipped with a newly designed system to monitor the degree of supersaturation in the circulation channel. The average degree of supercooling and growth rate were measured. The crystal growth rates calculated by the population balance model and the supersaturation monitor were different but close. The average supersaturation calculated from the supercooling degree and the solubility data in the literature was 0.19 g per 100 g H2O. This system is also expected to be applied to industrial crystallization where impurities are present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate the effect of potassium sulfate fertilizer and ascorbic acid application on yield and yield components and growth of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.), a field experiment was carried out at 2018-2019 at Isfahan, central Iran. A factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Experimental treatments were potassium sulfate in four levels including: no fertilizers application (control), 50%, 100%, and 150% (1.5 times) of the recommended amount. Foliar application of ascorbic acid also was used in three levels including: control (spraying with distilled water), 100, and 200 mg L-1 ascorbic acid. Plant height, leaf relative water content (RWC), yield and yield components of Quinoa were measured. Analysis of variance showed that potassium sulfate fertilizer and foliar application of ascorbic acid had significant effects on measured traits. The results showed that leaf area index (LAI) and dry matter accumulation (DM) were affected by both potassium sulfate fertilizer and ascorbic acid, and these treatments increased these traits. Increasing rates of ascorbic acid and potassium sulfate increased the relative water content of leaves, plant height, and spikes/m², seeds/spike, and 1000-seed weight. Grain yield and harvest index increased due to application of ascorbic acid (200 mg L-1 ) and potassium sulfate (150% (1.5 times) the recommended amount) by 79% and 2.6 times, respectively, compared to the control treatment. Therefore, these treatments were considered as a suitable combination to improve yield in the quinoa plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of winter and spring sowing and chemical, organic, and biological fertilizer sources were studied on yield components and antioxidant properties of dragon's head (Lallemantia iberica (M. Bieb.) Fisch. & C. A. Mey) in a field experiment in the 2017–2018 growing season with three replications and six treatments. The fertilizer treatments including (i) manure (6.3 ton ha−1), (ii) NPK fertilizer (urea: 110 kg ha−1 + triple superphosphate: 60 kg ha−1 + potassium sulfate: 50 kg ha−1 + micronutrients: 23 kg ha−1), (iii) vermicompost (6.8 ton ha−1), (iv) humic acid (400 kg ha−1), and (v) thiobacillus (2%) + granular sulfur (400 kg ha−1) were recorded. The winter sowing was advantageous over the spring sowing, as better results were obtained for seed yield per plant, essential oil content and yield, mucilage content and yield, and antioxidant components of dragon's head. The measurement of biochemical traits showed that the growth and nutritional conditions of dragon's head can affect its antioxidant activity so that the winter-sown plants fertilized with thiobacillus, vermicompost, or NPK fertilizer had higher antioxidant activity. It was also found that different parts of the dragon's head plants varied in antioxidant properties so that this activity was greater in seeds than in the leaves. In total, the results showed that the winter sowing of this plant would be better for its yield in the Azerbaijan region (Iran) and it is recommended to fertilize this plant species with vermicompost and thiobacillus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase equilibria of the reciprocal quaternary system LiBr-Li2SO4-KBr-K2SO4-H2O and its ternary sub-systems LiBr-Li2SO4-H2O and KBr-K2SO4-H2O at 308.15 K were studied using the isothermal dissolution equilibrium method. Then, the solubility data of the equilibrium solutions were collected, and the phase diagrams were plotted. The phase diagrams of the ternary sub-systems at 308.15 K were compared with those at other temperatures. This study found that the phase diagram of the LiBr-Li2SO4-H2O system at 308.15 K consisted of an invariant point, two solid-phase crystallization regions of Li2SO4·H2O and LiBr·2H2O, and their corresponding solubility curves. The system generated two hydrated salts, which belonged to the hydrate type I phase diagram. The phase diagram of the KBr-K2SO4-H2O system at 308.15 K consisted of an invariant point, two univariant solubility curves, and two solid-phase crystallization regions of KBr and K2SO4, and no solid solution and double salts were formed. Thus, it belonged to a simple co-saturation type phase diagram. In the LiBr-Li2SO4-KBr-K2SO4-H2O system, K2SO4·Li2SO4 double salt formed at 308.15 K, and the phase diagram consisted of three invariant points, five crystallization regions, and seven univariant solubility curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industrial Minerals & Processing / Huagong Kuangwu yu Jiagong is the property of Industrial Minerals & Processing Editorial Office 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.)

A field experiment was carried out during the autumn season of 2020 in the experiment station of the Field Crops Department, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, to knowing the response of four sorghum varieties (Buhooth-70, Lilo, Inqath and Rabih) to the combinations of potassium fertilizer added to the soil and foliarspraying: K0 = without addition (control treatment), K1 = addition of the recommended potassium fertilizer (200 g K to the soil, half of it was added in the vegetative growth stage and the other half in the flag leaf stage), K2 = addition 1/3 of the fertilizer recommendation + spraying of 2 g of potassium sulfate) and K3 (addition1/3 of the fertilizer recommendation + spraying of 3 g of potassium sulfate). The results showed that the Buhooth-70 variety was significantly superior and recorded the highest means of grains number (2858.0 grain head-1), weight of 1000 grains (28.01 g), grain yield (6.40 tons ha-1) and yield efficiency (0.0867 g cm-2). Also, the results showed that the K3 treatment was significantly superior and achieved the highest means of weight of 1000 grains (27.35 g) and grain yield (5.28 tons ha-1). The interaction between sorghum varieties and potassium fertilizer treatments had a significant effect on the all studied traits exceptleaves content of potassium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing chemical fertilizers in large quantities leads to deterioration of soil health and consequently the quality of the agriculture product. In return, the application of organic wastes helps to maintain good soil microbial population and soil fertility as well as enhance the yield. A field experiment was conducted at Assiut Governorate, Egypt, in seasons of 2017/2018 to investigate the influence of filter mud cake (FMC) either alone or combined with potassium sulfate as a chemical fertilizer (CF) on growth and yield of potato tubers. The results clearly indicated that the plants treated with FMC75+ CF25 treatment gave a significant increase (36.64%) in the plant height. Also, it caused highest increases for N, P and K uptakes by about 4, 7, and 6 times, respectively, compared to the control. However, increase in the total tuber yield (15.10 ton fed-1) was obtained with addition of potassium sulfate while FMC100 recorded 14.73 ton fed−1 compared to the control (5.92 ton fed-1). Although the decrease of the total yield, the FMC25 + CF75 treatment showed the highest relative increase (196.21%) in tuber large-size weight. Moreover, FMC50 + CF50 treatment gave the highest increase (130.62%) in medium-size and FMC100 gave highest increase (124.78%) in small-size over the control. Increasing the medium size (export volume) with adding organic to inorganic fertilizers at ratio of 50: 50 emphasizes the importance of using FMC as an alternative of chemical fertilizers used presence of potassium in the soil in an abundant level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is proven that potassium (K) plays a key regulatory role in many physiological processes of plant growth and that K fertilization can improve the yield and quality attributes in fruit crops. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of timing and various concentrations of foliar sprays of potassium sulfate, during fruit growth and maturation, on yield and quality of pomegranate fruit in Iran and Egypt, which have different pomegranate production systems. In Iran one, two or three sprays of 1% or 2% K-Leaf® (a high grade foliar potash booster) was used, and in Egypt a single spray of either 10 or 20 kg/ha, and two sprays of 10 and 20 kg/ha K-Leaf® were applied. Results showed that in both experiments in Iran and Egypt, foliar K treatments increased total and marketable yield of pomegranates, as well as fruit weight and size, flavor index (the ratio of total soluble solids/total acid). The treatments also improved the fruit's peel and aril color compared to the non-treated control plants. Results also demonstrated that multiple potassium sprays (two or three applications) were more effective than applying higher concentrations; as in many cases, there were no significant differences between 1 and 2% concentrations of K fertilizer in treatments with same number of applications (one, two or three sprays). Although three sprays of 2% K-Leaf® were the most effective treatments, it can be concluded that three sprays of 1% K-Leaf®) is probably more economically sound for use in pomegranate orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural dyestuffs are innovative natural resources alternative to chemicals in the textile industry due to their antibacterial properties. The objective of this study was to reveal the color, fastness, and antibacterial efficiency of Rosa canina leaf extract in wool fabric dyeing. Aluminum potassium sulfate (KAl (SO4)2.12H2O), copper sulfate (CuSO4.5H2O), and iron sulfate (FeSO4.7H2O) metal salts were preferred in the pre-mordanting process. Two different natural dye concentrations (25% and 50%) were tested in mordant and non-mordant wool fabrics. The fastness values were ranked between medium and good grades with 2–6. One of the remarkable results was that the fastness values of the un-mordanted dyed samples were acceptable with 5. In disc diffusion analysis, ultrasonic water bath CH3OH extracts were found to be more effective against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 with 16.4 mm and 7.51 mm, respectively. Also, the dyed wool fabrics showed remarkable antimicrobial activity (reduction rates: w46e100) against two different bacteria according to AATCC 100 method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural dyestuffs are evaluated as innovative natural sources to color the fabric and give antibacterial properties in the textile industry. In this study, methanol extracts of Helichrysum arenarium subsp. aucheri were used as natural sources in wool fabric dyeing. Aluminum potassium sulfate (KAl(SO4)2.12H2O), copper sulfate (CuSO4.5H2O), and iron sulfate (FeSO4.7H2O) metal salts were used in the pre-mordanting process. The dyeing process was carried out in mordant and non-mordant fabrics at 25% and 50% concentrations. In this experiment, fastness values are ranked between medium and good grades. The point that should be especially emphasized is that the un-mordanted and dyed samples' fastness values are acceptable. The disc diffusion method was applied to determine the antibacterial effect of extracts against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and gram-negative Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. The methanol extract obtained from the ultrasonic water bath has shown the most powerful antibacterial effect against S. aureus ATCC 25923 with a 15.8 zone diameter. The dyed wool fabrics demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity (reduction rates: w38.4e100) against two different bacteria according to AATCC 100 method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two small molecular dispersants (SMD-1 and SMD-2) with different charge densities of phosphate as the adsorption group were synthesised by the reaction of polyetheramine, phosphorous acid and formaldehyde. The structure and molecular weights of these two synthesised phosphated superplasticisers (PSPs) and a commercial polycarboxylate superplasticiser (PCE) were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. The dispersing, adsorption and hydration behaviours with the addition of potassium sulfate (K2SO4) to the cement paste were also analysed. The experimental results showed that, compared with the conventional comb-shaped PCE, the linear structure of the PSPs provided lower dispersing ability but better fluidity retention. The addition of potassium sulfate had an obvious negative effect on the dispersing ability of PCE, while the effect on the PSPs was slight. The adsorption isotherms indicated that, with the addition of 2 wt% potassium sulfate, the competitive adsorption between sulfate ions and PCE was enhanced: the saturated adsorption of PCE decreased by 10.37%, whereas the PSPs were less affected, with the saturated adsorption of SMD-1 only decreasing by 2.32%. Isothermal calorimetry measurements showed that the PSPs showed excellent retarding ability and could delay the hydration process of cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology 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 Journal of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Journal of Irrigation & Drainage Editorial Office 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.)