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Since centuries, the rapid spread and cure of infectious diseases have been a major concern to the progress and survival of humans. These diseases are a global burden and the prominent cause for worldwide deaths and disabilities. Nanomedicine has emerged as the most excellent tool to eradicate and halt their spread. Various nanoformulations (NFs) using advanced nanotechnology are in demand. Recently, hydrogel and nanogel based drug delivery devices have posed new prospects to simulate the natural intelligence of various biological systems. Owing to their unique porous interpenetrating network design, hydrophobic drug incorporation and stimulus sensitivity hydrogels owe excellent potential as targeted drug delivery systems. The present review is an attempt to highlight the recent trends of hydrogel based drug delivery systems for the delivery of therapeutic agents and diagnostics for major infectious diseases including acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), malaria, tuberculosis, influenza and ebola. Future prospects and challenges are also described.

Environment friendly soy polyester urethane nanocomposite coating materials were prepared by dispersing TiO2 and Ce-TiO2 nanoparticles in a 3-isocyanatopropyltriethoxysilane (IPTES) modified soy oil (SO) polyester urethane triethoxysilane (PEUTES) matrix via a sonication technique. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV) were employed to characterize the synthesized coating materials. The anticorrosion ability of nanocomposites and that of PEUTES coatings on carbon steel (CS) in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) techniques and a salt mist test. The effects of dispersion of nano TiO2 and Ce-TiO2 fillers in PEUTES matrices on the hydrophobic, physico-mechanical, thermal and anticorrosive properties were also studied. The TiO2 and Ce-TiO2 nanofiller dispersed soy polyester urethane nanocomposite coatings have exhibited far superior corrosion resistance properties than those of other such reported systems. These studies revealed the presence of nanofiller in polyester urethane matrix, induces strong barrier and locking effects at the coating–metal interface. The higher impedance value (≈108 Ω) and lower corrosion rate (7.8518 × 10−6 mpy) confirm the superior protection ability of the nanocomposite.

The projected fossil fuel deposits depletion by near future and detrimental effects of petroleum products on environment has led to the development of volatile organic compound (VOC) free low molecular weight sustainable polymers, with promising applications in field of inks, adhesives, paints, and coatings. In view of this, present study reports synthesis, characterization, and anticorrosive performance of SMG-PU and modified SMG-PU through in situ formed silica networks (SMG-PU-TEOS) OIH polymer nanocomposite coatings on CS. The size of ∼30 nm silica nanonetworks were formed within SMG-PU on addition of TEOS, inducing thermal stability, hydrophobic, improved physicomechanical and corrosion resistant properties to polymer nanocomposite coatings. The corrosion protective performance of these coatings in 5% NaCl (salt mist test), 3.5% NaCl, and 3.5% HCl solutions revealed very lower Icorr values (3.8891 × 10–10 A cm–2 and 6.8756 × 10–9 A cm–2) as compared to SMG-PU (1.8159 × 10–8 A cm–2 and 9.1396 × 10–7 A...

The overarching goal worldwide for the scientific community is “sustainable development” today, for an everlasting sustainable and green tomorrow. The strategy includes (i) harvesting renewable resources instead of fossil fuels, (ii) using environment friendly routes, and (iii) engineering material degradation pathways operating under reasonable time frames. The concept revolves around the focal point of “Green” or “Sustainable” Chemistry. In the world of coatings, the idea has already made its debut in the form of environment friendly technologies-low or no solvent, high solids, hyperbranched, water borne and UV curable coatings, utilising monomers/polymers derived from renewable resources. Vegetable oils [VEGO] constitute Mother Nature’s most abundant, cost-effective, non toxic, and biodegradable resource. They have been traditionally used for several non-food applications mainly coatings since primitive times. Today, the implementation of the modern technologies coupled with the full fledged use of VEGO based monomers or polymers in the field as raw materials, is an excellent effort toward sustainable future in the world of coatings globally. The review highlights some state-of-the art-modifications of VEGO as environment friendly-low or no solvent, high solids, hyperbranched, water borne and UV curable coatings. The article provides a handy overall vision of VEGO based environment friendly coatings on a single platform. These approaches can be well employed on those oils that are non-edible, non-medicinal and are left unexplored, unutilised or underutilised to date, thus adding value to an unutilised or underutilised sustainable resource.

Desmoglein-3 (Dsg3), the Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) antigen (PVA), plays an essential role in keratinocyte cell-cell adhesion and regulates various signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis the PV blistering disease. We show here that expression of Dsg3 may directly influence p53, a key transcription factor governing the response to cellular stress. Dsg3 depletion caused increased p53 and apoptosis, an effect that was further enhanced by UV and mechanical strain and reversed by Dsg3 gain-of-function studies. Analysis in Dsg3-/- mouse skin confirmed increased p53/p21/caspase-3 compared to Dsg3+/- control in vivo. This Dsg3-p53 pathway involved YAP since Dsg3 forms a complex with YAP and regulates its expression and localization. Analysis of PV patient samples detected increased p53/YAP with diffuse cytoplasmic and/or nuclear staining in cells surrounding blisters. Treatment of keratinocytes with PV sera evoked pronounced p53/YAP expression. Collectively, our findings establish a novel role for Dsg3 as an anti-stress protein, via suppression of p53 function, suggesting that this pathway, involving YAP-Hippo control of skin homeostasis, is disrupted in PV.

Strontium ferrite (SrFe12O19) and Strontium ferrite enwrapped polythiophene (SrF/PT) composites have been synthesized via sol-gel and in-situ emulsion polymerization techniques for the first time. The structural, morphological, magnetic, dielectric, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performances of these composites have been investigated. The composite possessing SrF:PT = 2:1 (SrF/PT-21) composition showed maximum shielding effectiveness (SE) of −31.64 dB at 15.73 GHz for 1 mm thick sample in the Ku-band (12.4–18 GHz) region, which is found to be higher than all composites and pristine SrFe12O19. This behavior is mainly attributed to the high dielectric and magnetic losses occurred within the material. The enwrapping of mesoporous SrFe12O19 nanoparticles by conducting PT further eased the electron transportation within the composite network that offered the greater impedance match for electromagnetic wave. Therefore, the composite may act as a promising microwave absorber with a lightweight, high thermal stability, and excellent SE ability for a broad frequency range.

In-spite of significant advancement in hydrogel technology, low mechanical strength and lack of electrical conductivity has limited their next level biomedical applications for skeletal muscles, cardiac and neural cells. Host-guest chemistry based hybrid nanocomposites systems have gained attention as they completely overcome these pitfalls and generate bio-scaffolds with tunable electrical and mechanical characteristics. In recent years, carbon nanotubes (CNT)-based hybrid hydrogels have emerged as innovative candidates with diverse applications in regenerative medicines, tissue engineering, drug delivery devices, implantable devices, bio-sensing and bio-robotics. Present article is an attempt to recapitulate the advancement in synthesis and characterization of hybrid hydrogels and provide deep insights towards their functioning and success as biomedical devices. The improved comparative performance and biocompatibility of CNT-hydrogels hybrids systems developed for targeted biomedical applications are addressed here. Recent updates towards diverse applications and limitations of CNT hybrid hydrogels is the strength of the review. This will provide a holistic approach towards understanding of CNT based hydrogels and their applications in nanomedicine.

Brandskyddsprojekteringen i olika projekt sker i dagsläget i 2D-CAD där filerna sparas iPDF-format. Detta framgick från de olika intervjuerna som skedde i samband med rapporten.Detta sätt att projektera på kan göra så att det uppstår olika typer av problem i projektet bådeför brandskyddsprojekteringen och de övriga discipliner som är med och projekterar. Närbrandskyddsprojekteringen inte deltar i att använda 3D-BIM i de olika projekten så försvårassamordningen av modellerna som görs av arkitekten eller BIM-samordnaren. De problem somkan uppstå består även av de möjligheter som inte tas till vara på vid BIM-användning avbrandskyddsprojekteringen. Dessa möjligheter och fördelar kan t.ex. vara ökad förståelse förkoncept och färdig byggnad, minskad tidsåtgång i byggskedet, högre produktivitet ochkvalitet m.fl. [1]. Det finns även möjligheter inriktad till brandskyddsprojekteringen där BIMbland annat underlättar framtagningen av brandskyddsritningar ochlivssäkerhetsystemsritningar.Implementering av BIM i brandskyddsprojekteringen kan ske på olika sätt. Efter delitteraturstudier som gjorts har det kommit fram till att BIM kan implementeras på olika sättgenom att t.ex. ta till vara på de olika förutsättningar som finns i dagsläget. Dessaförutsättningar är olika BIM-programvaror och BIM-kurser som gör det lättare attimplementera BIM för brandskyddsprojekteringen. Det går även att vid upphandling av deolika entreprenadformerna ge förslag och ställa krav på att projekteringen ska ske i BIM iförfrågningsunderlag eller i CAD- och BIM-manualen. Krav och regler kan även ställas avregeringen där ett liknande exempel är i Storbritannien där regeringen krävt byggnads- ochinfrastrukturprojekt att jobba med BIM i nivå 2 sedan April 2016 [2, 3].Boverkets byggregler kan också ställa mer strikta krav när det gäller projekteringen utifrånPBL och PBF där de kan ställa krav på att det ska ske i BIM.Utifrån dessa problem, möjligheter och förutsättningar som finns idag med implementering avBIM i brandskyddsprojekteringen kommer övergången inte att vara lätt och kommer inte attske snarast. Men detta borde göras i och med att BIM utvecklas hela tiden och då kommerövergången från 2D-CAD att bli ännu svårare i framtiden. Därmed bordebrandskyddsprojekteringen och de övriga disciplinerna i byggprocessen sträva att jobba i 3DBIMeftersom att detta nyttjar för alla som är delaktiga i projektet., Fire protection design in various projects is currently done in 2D-CAD where the files aresaved in PDF format. This was evident from the various interviews that took place inconnection with the report. This way of designing can cause various types of problems in theproject that occur for both the fire protection design and the others disciplines involved in thedesigning. When the fire protection design does not participate in using 3D-BIM in theprojects, collaboration of the models made by the architect or the BIM coordinator willcomplicate. The problems that may arise also consist of the possibilities not taken for BIMuse of the fire protection design. These opportunities and benefits can for example be a betterunderstanding of concepts and completed building, reduced time spent in the constructionphase, higher productivity and quality etc. [1]. There are also possibilities for the fireprotection design, where BIM facilitates the production of the fire protection plans and lifesecuritysystem drawings.Implementation of BIM in the fire protection design can be done in different ways. Followingthe literature studies, it has come to conclusion that BIM can be implemented in differentways for example by taking advantage of the various conditions that exist today. Theseconditions include different BIM software and BIM courses that makes it easier to implementBIM for the fire protection design. It is also possible to make proposals for the design of BIMin the specifications or in the CAD- and BIM manuals when procuring the various types ofcontractors. Requirements and rules can also be set by the government where a similarexample where made in the UK where the government demanded construction andinfrastructure projects to work with BIM at level 2 since April 2016 [2, 3].Boverkets byggregler can also make stricter requirements regarding the design by PBL andPBF, where they can demand that it should be done in BIM. Based on these problems,opportunities and conditions that exist today with the implementation of BIM in the fireprotection design, the transition will not be easy and will not be happening soon. But thisshould be done as BIM evolves all the time and then the transition from 2D CAD will be evenmore difficult in the future. Therefore, the fire protection design and the other disciplines inthe construction process should aim to work in 3D-BIM, as this is useful to all those who areinvolved in the project.

Hydrogels in the nano regime are termed as nanogels (NGs). The formulation in the nano range renders the synthesis process easy as well as scalable with better control over designing/cross-linking between the NGs. Nanogels have shown controllable swelling, viscoelasticity, and high biocompatibility leading to their use in targeted and stimuli-responsive drug delivery purposes. The designing and engineering of materials plays a pivotal role in accounting for the improvement in the basic properties of the materials and hence, is very important for material scientists. The study of the design and functional characteristics of NGs is the only way to understand their chemical and biological responses in biological models and in turn helps to generate a rationale for development of smart NGs and therapeutic inventions.

Nanogel-based systems have gained tremendous attention due to their diverse range of applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biosensors, orthopaedics, wound healing and drug delivery. Nanogels for Biomedical Applications provides a comprehensive overview of nanogels and their use in nanomedicine. The book starts with the synthesis, methods and characterization techniques for nanogel-based smart materials followed by individual chapters demonstrating the different uses of the materials. Applications covered include anticancer therapy, tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment, tissue engineering, gene delivery and targeted drug delivery. The book will appeal to biologists, chemists, and nanotechnologists interested in translation research for personalized nanomedicine for health care.

In the present work, we have taken an attempt to prepare waterborne linseed polyesteramide [WBPEA]/OMMT clay composites by microwave-assisted facile route to increase the application of bio-based materials like seed oils. The presence of characteristic absorption bands of OMMT clay in FTIR spectra confirmed the formation of composite. Morphological studies of the composites were carried out by using TEM and XRD techniques. Thermal (TGA) analysis was used to investigate the thermal stability of the composite. The synthesized composites may serve as prospective candidates in the area of environmentally friendly waterborne protective coatings. These can be safely used upto 290 °C.

Waterborne epoxy acrylate-butylated melamine formaldehyde (EpAc-BMF) coatings and ferrite (Fe3O4) dispersed nanocomposite (EpAc-BMF-Fe3O4) coatings have been developed with a view to effectively replace the hazardous solvent borne polymeric coatings. The physico-mechanical properties of these coatings were studied using standard protocols. Electrochemical measurements were made in 3.5 wt% solutions of NaOH, NaCl and HCl as well as in tap water (Cl− ion 63 mg/L; Conductivity 0.953 mS/m). The salt spray test on coated and uncoated MS was carried out in 5 wt% NaCl solution for 600 h. Fe3O4 nanoparticles in matrix act as filler, which fill the pinhole, interstitial crosslinked spaces and other coating artifacts (micro cracks and voids) regions besides provide strength to the coating material. Electrochemical studies revealed that EpAc-BMF-Fe3O4 coatings were found to be effective in restricting the penetration of aggressive ions by forming a strong barrier layer at coating metal interface. Among various compositions of EpAc-BMF-Fe3O4 coatings, EpAc-BMF-Fe3O4-2.5 coatings have shown highest corrosion protection efficiency in different corrosive media.

Linseed oil polyol/ZnO bionanocomposite was prepared to obtain mechanically robust, thermally stable, hydrophobic coatings via a novel synergistic approach utilising a vegetable oil polyol for the first time. The synthesis process obviates the use of reducing agents, surfactants, reaction media, stabilizing agents, solvents, and other chemicals. Linseed polyol serves the purpose of obtaining ZnO nanoparticles. The linseed polyol backbone hosts hydroxyl and carboxylic groups that participate in the generation of ZnO nanoparticles in the polyol matrix (ester elimination, addition–elimination reaction). The progress of the reaction was monitored by recording FTIR spectra at regular intervals of time. The coatings obtained were scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, well-adherent, flexibility-retentive and hydrophobic, showing good chemical resistance under acidic, alkaline, and salt environments. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that these coatings could be safely used up to 250 °C. The work described is consistent with the principles of “Green Chemistry” (Principles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 12), such as utilising a renewable feedstock, resorting to a solventless approach, and employing safer chemistry. The results showed that these coatings may be well employed as promising candidates towards environmentally friendly corrosion protective coatings.

Conducting polymers (CPs) have been significantly contributing to the development of high performance new-generation anti-corrosive coatings. CP nanofiller dispersed insulating polymer coatings effectively prevent the transport of corrosive ions (H+, O2−, Cl−, OH− etc.) at the coating–metal interface, via a barrier or redox mechanism. In view of this, for the first time, we report the synthesis of poly(o-anisidine-co-o-phenyldiammine) P(oA-co-oPDA) copolymer conducting nanorods. Poly(o-anisidine) (PoA) conducting nanoparticles were also synthesized laterally. The formulations of these nanofiller dispersed epoxy-polyamide (PA) nanocomposite coating systems have also been reported. The structural elucidation was performed by FT-IR, UV-Vis, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The crystallinity, surface area and morphology of the fillers were analysed by XRD, BET, SEM and TEM techniques. The thermal stability and hydrophobic behaviour were investigated using TGA, DSC and contact angle measurements. The physico-mechanical properties and corrosion protective performance of these coatings were evaluated using standard methods. The salt spray test, potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electron impedance spectroscopy studies (EIS) were conducted in 5 wt% NaCl and 5 wt% HCl media. The physico-mechanical properties, corrosion protection performance and Raman studies revealed that the P(oA-co-oPDA)-epoxy-PA nanocomposite coating exhibited superior performance when compared to PoA-epoxy-PA, epoxy-PA and other such nanocomposite coatings.

Novel copper(II) nanocoordination complexes [LCuCl]Cl C1, [LCu(SCN)]SCN C2, and [LCu(NO3)]NO3C3 capped by bis-benzimidazole diamide ligand N1,N5-bis{(1H-benzo[d]imidazole-2-yl)methyl}glutarimide L were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic methods viz. transmission electron microscopy (5–100 nm), dynamic light scattering, elemental analysis, EPR, and infrared spectroscopy. These complexes were also tested for their ability to inhibit nitric oxide release during culture. Lipopolysaccharide-induced superoxide production decreased most significantly for complex C2. Nanocoordination complex C2 also showed the most significant in vitro cytotoxicity against HeLa human cervical cancer cells, MCF-7 breast cancer cells, and U-87 glioblastoma cells, ranging from 50 μg ml−1 to 500 μg ml−1. In vivo study revealed an increase in body weight (11.5 g) for the tumour control groups, whereas in the case of the mouse groups treated with test sample C3, the difference in body weight as compared to the control was approximately 4.7 g. In further studies, it decreased to 2.2 g and 0.6 g in the case of mouse groups treated with nanocoordination complexes C1 and C2, respectively. The mean mouse survival time was 21 days, which increased to 100, 120, and 170 days for C3, C1, and C2, respectively.

The synergistic contributions of nanofillers and polymer matrix induce remarkable properties in nanocomposite hydrogels. Present article reports the facile synthesis of biocompatible nanocomposite hydrogels using microporous multi wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) dispersed chitosan (CH)-Acrylonitrile (AN), N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBAAm) and linseed polyol through solution blending method. Polyol and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBAAm) was used as the crosslinking agent. The structural characterization and formation of highly crosslinked network with dendrimer morphology was confirmed by FT-IR and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. In addition, transmission electron microscope (TEM) was employed to visualize the size and proper dispersion of MWCNT in the polymer matrices. The strong mechanical strength exhibited by these hydrogel films was confirmed by the tensile strength analysis. The dispersion of the conductive nanofillers, like MWCNTs has significantly enhanced the strength, which revealed unique characteristics of these hydrogel films. The high swelling capacity and sustained expansion of hydrogel films were confirmed in the buffer solutions of pH4 and 7.4. The biodegradability of these films was estimated by hydrolytic and soil burial tests. The biocompatibility test was conducted on Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK-293) cell line, which confirmed the non-toxic and biocompatible nature of these films. Incorporation of carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the polymer matrix enhanced the film forming properties, high modulus and tensile strength, swelling ability, biodegradable and biocompatibility. These properties can be finely tuned through the variation of MWCNT concentrations, as a result these nanostructure hydrogel films have potential scope for their diverse applications in the field of tissue engineering.

Polymer blends have replaced a variety of pristine polymers in different sectors due to their desired synergetic properties such as durability, heat resistance, reduced wear & tear, flexibility, chemical resistance and longer shelf life that can be achieved by making minor alterations in their compositions. The modification of polymer blends by using sustainable resource based polymers can not only fulfil our ecological but also our economic and social needs. The present work reports the compatibility studies of oil derived epoxy and polyesteramide blends with polymethacrylic acid (PMA). The aim is to highlight the role of rheology in predicting the compatibility of these blends in the solution and solid phases which is a crucial parameter that decides the processibility and viability of these materials for commercialization.

Tremendous growth in the field of pharmacology and therapeutics has been observed due to revolutionised development of novel drug delivery systems predominantly based on “Nanotechnology”. Treatment of wide varieties of diseases is made possible by miniaturisation of drug delivery systems. Nanotechnology delivers a unique approach, which promises higher drug efficacy, targeted drug delivery, on demand delivery, biocompatibility, etc. The importance of nanotechnology can be visualised by its ability of addressing several problems in central areas of biomedical, chemical, mechanical and electronics. Here, we discuss how nano-therapeutics can be fruitful for the treatment of brain diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Parkinson’s, cancer, Alzheimer and their drug delivery mechanism. In this regard, the challenges involved and required future developments in drug delivery systems becomes few important topics to be worked on for expanding the utilization of nano-therapeutics.

Vegetable oils (VO) constitute the single, largest, easily available, low cost, non-toxic, non-depletable, biodegradable family yielding materials that are capable of competing with fossil fuel derived petro-based products. The outstanding feature of VO is their unique chemical structure with to unsaturation sites, epoxies, hydroxyls, esters and other functional groups along with inherent fluidity characteristics. These enable them to undergo various chemical transformations producing low molecular weight polymeric materials with versatile applications, particularly as chief ingredients in paints and coatings. In this manuscript, we have briefly described important VO derived materials such as alkyds, polyesteramides, polyetheramides, polyurethanes, epoxies, polyols, along with their preparation and applications as protective coatings. A small portion of the review is also dedicated to the future perspectives in the field. Inspite of their extensive utilization in the world of coatings, literature survey revealed that in the past (from 1990s to date) no review has come up describing the chemistry and applications of VO polymer based coating materials.

The work presents the physico-mechanical properties and potentiodynamic polarization measurements studies of linseed oil based polyurethane/tetraethoxyorthosilane [LPU/TEOS] hybrid and polyurethane/tetraethoxyorthosilane/fumed silica NC [LPU/TEOS/FS] hybrid nanocomposite coatings. The best coating performance was obtained by the inclusion of 2 wt% FS in 2-LPU/TEOS hybrid. 2-LPU/TEOS/FS produced glossy, transparent, flexibility retentive, scratch-resistant and impact resistant coatings at ambient temperature relative to LPU/TEOS coatings. 2-LPU/TEOS/FS showed good scratch hardness (5.5 kg), impact resistance (250 lb/in.), flexibility (1/8 in.) as investigated by standard methods with corrosion rate obtained as 3.567 × 10−4 mm/year and 4.05 × 10−4 mm/year and inhibition efficiency as 99.816% and 99.710% in 3.5% NaOH and 3.5% HCl, respectively.

The present article reports the synthesis and corrosion protection performance of polyorthotoluidine (POT) nanoparticles dispersed castor oil polyurethane (COPU) nanocomposite coatings in acid and saline environments. The structure of POT/COPU was confirmed by FTIR and UV-visible spectroscopic techniques. The nanostructure of the pristine POT nanoparticles and those in the composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The physico-mechanical properties were analyzed using standard methods. The corrosion protective performance was evaluated by weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in an acid medium. While in the saline environment the corrosion protective performance was investigated in a salt mist chamber using a 5% NaCl solution for 30 days. The morphological behavior of the corroded and un-corroded coated specimen was investigated by SEM studies. The stipulated acid and saline corrosion mechanism was also discussed.

The upsurge in the need of targeted controlled drug delivery (TCDD) has led to the invention of remarkable biomaterials with improved biocompatibility and biodegradability. In recent years, "Smart Polymers" have emerged as a potential candidate, competing with the existing hydrogel systems used for controlled drug delivery. This article is an effort to highlight the diverse applications of hydrogels for revolutionizing the present research on drug delivery systems. This article summarizes the role of hydrogels as delivery vehicles for drugs used in various disorders related to the brain and other distinct parts of the human body. The clinical application and toxicological aspects of hydrogels are also highlighted. Their potential for diagnostics and various therapeutic interventions against tuberculosis have been reviewed. In addition, the limitations and future prospectives in the development of biopolymeric hydrogels are discussed.

The present article reports the synthesis of butylated melamine formaldehyde (BMF) cured soy alkyd (SA-BMF) and nanoferrite (Fe3O4) dispersed SA-BMF (SA-BMF–Fe3O4) nanocomposite anticorrosive coatings. The structural elucidation of SA-BMF and SA-BMF–Fe3O4 was performed by Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Physico-mechanical properties such as impact resistance, bend test, scratch hardness, cross hatch adhesion test of these coatings were analyzed by standard protocols. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to evaluate the thermal stability of the coating material. The corrosion resistance performance of SA-BMF and SA-BMF–Fe3O4 coated CS was evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The salt spray test for coated and uncoated carbon steel (CS) strips in 5 wt% NaCl solution was also performed. Study revealed that the presence of Fe3O4 nanoparticles played a prominent role in the performance of SA-BMF matrix as reflected by high thermal stability, good hydrophobicity, enhanced physico-mechanical properties and higher corrosion resistance performance. Among different compositions, SA-BMF–Fe3O4-2.5 coatings exhibited far superior physico-mechanical and corrosion inhibition properties than SA-BMF coatings and other similar reported systems. The possible mechanisms of corrosion inhibition by nanocomposite coatings are also discussed.

Nano conducting polymer (CP) dispersed polymer hydrophobic coatings are considered to be a new generation coating system. They have promising applications in the area of anticorrosive coatings and have proved to be an effective alternative to the toxic phosphate–chromate based coatings. In view of this, for the first time, we report here the effect of microwave (MW) irradiation on various properties of polythiophene (PTh) and compare with conventionally polymerised nano PTh (cPTh). The effect of MW irradiation on the morphology, size, solubility and electrical properties are investigated with the help of TEM, SEM, CV and four probe conductivity measurements. The synthesis has been carried out in aqueous medium, as it is green, renewable, environmentally friendly and free from harmful VOCs. The nano PTh dispersed epoxy-polyamide (PA) nanocomposite coatings are developed on carbon steel (CS). The mPTh–epoxy-PA shows superior flexibility, gloss, adhesion, impact and scratch resistance properties than those of the cPTh–epoxy-PA nanocomposite coatings. The salt spray test and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) studies on these coatings reveal that the mPTh–epoxy-PA nanocomposite coatings show superior anticorrosive properties (Ecorr/Icorr: −0.30301 V/3.1587 × 10−9 A cm−2) than cPTh–epoxy-PA (−0.32138 V/1.1003 × 10−8 A cm−2) and epoxy-PA (−0.45505 V/9.3862 × 10−7 A cm−2) coatings. The morphology of corroded and uncorroded coatings are analysed by SEM/EDAX. The promising physico-mechanical properties and corrosion protection performance of mPTh–epoxy-PA nanocomposite coatings highlighted the potential of MW techniques for the synthesis of CPs.

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is one of the main causes for the failure of electronic devices working in close vicinity of EM field induced by the neighboring electronic device. Therefore, we report a facile synthesis of barium ferrite (BaFe12O19) nanoparticles via sol-gel technique for efficient EMI shielding application. These nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C, 700 °C, and 850 °C to investigate the effect of temperature on shielding efficiency and morphology of BaFe12O19 nanoparticles. The structure, morphology, phase purity, magnetism, and shielding effectiveness were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and vector network analyzer, respectively. These studies suggest that BaFe12O19 nanoparticles annealed at 850 °C exhibit crystalline pure phase hexagonal structure with the high magnetic moment (31.32 emu g−1) and coercivity (2.7 kOe). The total shielding effectiveness of the same was found to be −17.57 dB at 11.58 GHz, which is much higher than those of earlier reported studies.

The limitations associated with the conventional therapeutics have intended the use of controlled drug delivery systems. In recent years, the hydrogel technology has been an integral part of human health care. The pharmaceutical industry has been developing hydrogel based drug delivery system in an advanced manner by tuning the structure, shape and surface modifications of the biopolymers. The present review highlights the role of hydrogels in drug delivery. It also highlights the use of important polymers and their applications in drug delivery. In addition, the use of nanocomposite hydrogels with reference to the inorganic and magnetic nanoparticles is also discussed.

The surface coating industry is globally involved in developing useful, eco-friendly, and VOC (volatile organic compounds)-free coating systems, which exhibit promising physico-mechanical and corrosion protective performance. Herein, we report the synthesis of butylated melamine formaldehyde (BMF)-modified soy alkyd (SA-BMF). The structural elucidation and molecular weight of soy alkyd (SA) and SA-BMF resin was carried out by FT-IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) techniques. The physico-chemical and physico-mechanical properties were tested by standard protocols. Initial decomposition temperature was measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The curing study and glass transition temperature were assessed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Hydrophobicity of the coatings was measured in terms of contact angle. The anticorrosion performance of SA-BMF was studied experimentally using polarization techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)...

Some preliminary investigations on “green” preparation, morphology and antibacterial behavior of Linseed polyol nanocomposite [LMPOL] for antibacterial polyurethane coatings are summarised. Nanocomposite is prepared in situ with Linseed polyol [LP] matrix as organic and Copper acetate as inorganic constituent by “solventless one-pot” chemical reaction. The presence of characteristic absorption bands in FTIR spectra confirmed the formation of LMPOL. TEM analysis showed the presence of nano-sized metal oxide in LMPOL. LMPOL showed good antibacterial behavior against E. coli and S. aureus . The interactions between LMPOL and bacterial surfaces lead to good antibacterial efficacy, suggesting membrane disruption based cell death. LMPOL may serve as an excellent starting material for antibacterial polyurethane coating. The approach is an excellent example for the preparation of “green” polyol from “green” resource en route Green Chemistry for protective polyurethane coatings.

Copper (I) and copper (II) nano composites capped with a bis-benzimidazole diamide ligand were prepared by reverse micelle method and characterized using CHNS, FTIR, 1H NMR, TEM and DLS studies. All particles were spherical ranging between 10 and 70 nm. They displayed a quasi reversible redox wave due to the Cu (II)/Cu (I) reduction process. The E g 1 ′ values shift anodically as NO 3 − E g 1 ′ ) for the nano composites were +1.80 ( NO 3 − ), +2.80 (Cl−) and +4.10 (SCN−) eV, respectively. However, the optical band gap (Eg1) for the nano composites was calculated from their absorption edges and lie between 1.77 and 4.13 eV. Fluorescence studies reveal that nano composites in themselves behave as an enhancer and quencher in respect to ligand, Quantum yield (φ) is varying from 0.008 to 0.02 photon. The activation energies range from 34 to 54 kJ mol−1 and are quite low in comparison to that of the free bis-benzimidazole diamide ligand (137 kJ mol−1). The lower activation energies further re-emphasize the nano size of these composites. At room temperature, the dc conductivity lies between 1 × 10−4–9.33 × 10−4 S cm−1 [ NO 3 − > SCN− > Cl−] indicating them to be on the semiconductor insulator interface. The dielectric constant, dielectric loss and the ac conductivity were measured for all nano at room temperature and below the room temperature for the nano composite containing nitrate as co-anion. The conductivity was found to follow the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) mechanism; the exponent factor (s) varies from 0.5 to 1.

The utilization of renewable resources such as vegetable oils [VO] for the development of environment friendly waterborne [WB] materials is encouraged worldwide. The preparation of WB materials from VO is a challenging task due to their hydrophobic nature. The present work describes the synthesis of WB epoxy from VO [WBOE]. WBOE was characterized for its structural and physico-chemical attributes. The cured material was subjected to physico-mechanical, chemical resistance tests, and thermal analyses. The coatings of WBOE showed good physico-mechanical, chemical resistance as well as thermal stability and may find application as eco-friendly WB coatings with safe usage up to 220 °C.

The present work reports the synthesis and characterization of nanostructured poly (o-toluidine) (POT) reinforced epoxy-siloxane (ES) composite resins. The structural elucidation was carried out using FT-IR and UV–visible spectrometry. The FT-IR analysis confirmed the interaction between NH group of the POT and the OH group of ES via strong hydrogen bonding. The UV–visible spectra of POT/ES composites revealed a blue shift of 100 nm in the polaronic transition peak observed at 600 nm in pristine POT, which was attributed to the restriction in the delocalization of polarons in the POT chains due to electrostatic interaction via hydrogen bonding. The nanosize of POT and its dispersion in the ES matrix was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy studies. The particle size was found from 15–35 nm. The morphological studies confirmed the formation of a nanocomposite where POT appeared to act as reinforcing agent in the ES matrix. XRD showed the semi-crystalline nature of POT/ES nanocomposites. The conductivities of POT and its nanocomposites were 10−3–10−4 S/cm at 30 °C. The thermal stability increased with an increase in the loading of POT in ES. The nanocomposites revealed good physico-chemical and physico-mechanical characteristics, which suggests their potential application as corrosion protective coatings.

For the first time, polyurethanefattyamide/silica [PULFAS] based organic–inorganic hybrid coatings were prepared at ambient temperature to combat the corrosion of mild steel. The coating material was synthesized in situ by the reaction of Linseed diol fattyamide (HELA) and tetraethoxy orthosilicate (TEOS, 20–30 phr) at 80 °C, followed by the addition of calculated amount of toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI) in the reaction setup at room temperature. The formation of PULFAS was confirmed by FTIR spectral technique while morphology of the same was observed by optical micrography. The physico-mechanical properties of PULFAS coatings such as scratch hardness, impact resistance, bend test and gloss along with coating thickness were evaluated by standard methods. Thermal stability of PULFAS was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Curing behavior of PULFS was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Corrosion resistance performance of the hybrid coatings was evaluated by potentio dynamic polarization (PDP) measurements in different corrosive environments at room temperature. Salt spray test of PULFAS coatings was carried out in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The corrosion protection mechanism of the same was also investigated. The results showed that PULFAS coatings exhibit good physico-mechanical properties with excellent performance against the corrosive environments.

Discovery of hydrogels has resulted in developing competent controlled-release drug delivery systems. Present study describes the synthesis and characterization of novel pH responsive hydrogels of chitosan, hydroxyl ethyl cellulose (HEC) and polyol prepared by physical blending of the three components in different ratios. Vegetable oil derived polyol seems to act as a filler and cross linking agent. The synthesized hydrogels were characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Equilibrium swelling behavior of hydrogels in water and different buffers with pH values (2, 4, 7.3, and 8) indicated the sustained expansion of the films in different pH solutions.