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Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) is commonly used as an ideal precursor for non-noble metal catalysts because of its high specific surface area, ultra-high porosity, and N-rich content. Upon pyrolyzing ZIF-8 at 900 °C in Ar, the resulting material, referred to as Z8, displayed good activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Then the ZIF-8 was mixed with various conductive carbon materials, such as multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), Acetylene black (ACET), Vulcan XC-72R (XC-72R), and Ketjenblack EC-600JD (EC-600JD), to form Z8 composites. The Z8/MWCNTs composite exhibited enhanced ORR activity owing to its network structure, meso-/microporous hierarchical porous structure, improved electrical conductivity, and graphitization. Subsequently, iron and nitrogen co-doping is achieved through the pyrolysis of a mixture comprising Fe, N precursor, and ZIF-8/MWCNTs, which is denoted as FeN-Z8/MWCNTs. The intrinsically high electrical conductivity of MWCNTs facilitated efficient electron transfer during the ORR, while the meso-/microporous hierarchical porous structure and network structure of Fe, N co-doped ZIF-8/MWCNTs promoted oxygen transport. The presence of Fe-containing species in the catalyst acted as activity centers for ORR. This strategy of preparing Z8 composites and modifying them with Fe, N co-doping offers an insightful approach to designing cost-effective electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Absolute kinetics for reactions of C2H2 with a series of ∼60 individual carbon nanoparticles (NPs) from graphite, graphene, graphene oxide, carbon black, diamond, and nano-onion feedstocks were measured for temperatures (TNP) ranging from 1200 to 1700 K. All the NPs were observed to gain mass by carbon addition under conditions that varied with feedstock but with large variations in initial growth rate. Long reaction periods were studied to allow the evolution of growth rates over time to be observed. Diamond NPs were found to passivate against C2H2 addition if heated above ∼1400 K, and the highly variable initial reactivity for carbon nano-onions was found to depend on the presence of non-onion-structure surface carbon. For graphitic and carbon black NPs, three distinct growth modes were observed, correlated with the initial NP mass (Minitial). Smallest graphitic and carbon black NPs, with masses <∼25 MDa, initially grew rapidly but also passivated quickly after adding <4% of Minitial. NPs in the 20–50 MDa range also passivated but only after multiple waves of fast growth separated by periods of low reactivity, with up to ∼11% total mass gain before passivation. The largest carbon black and graphitic NPs, with Minitial >50 MDa, grew rapidly and continuously, adding up to ∼300% of Minitial with no sign of rate slowing as long as C2H2 was present. The efficiencies for C2H2 addition and etching by O2 are strongly correlated, but the correlation changes as the NPs passivate. Growth and passivation mechanisms are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, pristine calcium titanate (CaTiO3), polyaniline (PANI), binary PANI@carbon black (CB), and ternary PANI@CB/CaTiO3 composites were synthesized using solid-state and in situ oxidative polymerization method. XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis, PL, FE-SEM, and EDX analyses were studied in order to examine the structural, optical, and morphological properties of all grown samples. XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and EDX findings confirmed the formation of successful chemical organization among PANI, CaTiO3, and CB. The UV–Vis and PL investigation reaffirmed the reduction in optical band gap (2.67 eV–2.56 eV) and charge carrier recombination process due to inclusion of CaTiO3 into CB-reinforced polymer matrix. In photocatalytic experiment, PANI@CB/10%CaTiO3 catalyst showed efficacious performance to degrade the synthetic dyes (99.7% MO and 97.8% MB) after 120-min sunlight irradiation with higher rate and superb stability up-to 5th cycle against MO dye. In kinetic examination, pseudo-first-order kinetic model was obeyed by both dyes. Herein, the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) photovoltaic cell was fabricated by spin-coating the grown samples on FTO glass substrate and thermally evaporating the Al electrode subsequently. The BHJ fabricated by PANI@CB/10%CaTiO3 showed better efficiency (0.541%), photocurrent density (Jsc) (4.21 mA/cm2), and open-circuit voltage (Voc) (0.39 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphology control is widely acknowledged as an effective method for optimizing the exposed facets and active sites of palladium (Pd) nanocrystals, which enhances their electrocatalytic activity. However, conventional approaches inevitably alter the reaction from both thermodynamic and kinetic perspectives, rendering control intricate. In this investigation, we introduce a specialized strategy to achieve morphology control over PdAuAg nanocrystals, demonstrating their exceptional performance as electrocatalysts for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). Specifically, three metallic precursor solutions were individually introduced into a one-pot reaction system at controlled rates using syringe pumps, allowing for separate manipulation of each metal atom's concentration without cross-reaction. Consequently, a variety of products with unique morphologies and structures were produced, all adhering to the same protocol except for the rate of metal atom introduction. When catalyzing the EOR, the optimized PdAuAg nanocrystals supported on carbon black exhibited a sevenfold increase in mass activity compared to Pt/C, as well as enhanced reaction kinetics and long-term stability. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed that crystal facets can influence the ethanol oxidation reaction pathway, rationalizing the improved catalytic performance. Our study presents a viable approach for modulating the morphology of trimetallic nanocrystals by varying the feed rate of metal atoms in a one-pot reduction, illuminating the rational design of high-performance fuel cell catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the MIL-47/ACET/Nafion/GCE electrochemical senser for the determination of diethylstilbestrol (DES) was prepared with vanadyl sulfate (VOSO4· n H2O) and terephthalic acid (H2BDC) as the main raw materials, compounded with acetylene black (ACET) and perfluorosulfonic acid polymer (Nafion). The compound DES belongs to the category of estrogens, and prolonged exposure to the environment can have detrimental effects on the physiological functioning of both humans and animals. Due to the strong DES enrichment performance of MIL-47(V-MOFs) with large specific surface area, in addition to the excellent conductivity and electrocatalysis of composite materials, this modified senser had good electrochemical response to DES. With differential pulse voltammetry, in optimum condition of 0.1 M NaH2PO4–Na2HPO4 at pH = 7.0, potential interval of −1.0 to 1.0 V, enrichment time of 120 s and enrichment potential of 0.2 V, there was a good linear relationship between peak current and the concentration of DES over the range of 0.1 and 50 μ M, and the limit of detection was 0.008 μ M. The sensor accurately detected DES in actual water samples, with recovery rates ranging from 89.21% to 105.3%. The electrochemical sensor was simple to prepare and had practical significance for the detection of DES in water. The research results of the sensor provide another alternative analytical means for the sensitive detection of DES in the environment, which is important for maintaining public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preference for colours has profound impacts on the fitness of visually oriented species, influencing the search for food resources and mates of better quality while also modulating various physiological and behavioural features. Such processes may be more important to sexually dimorphic species, especially coloured ones since visual signals play an important role in intra- and intersexual communication. Amazon small streams vary widely regarding the amount of dissolved organic carbon resulting in black (red-biased) and clear (mostly transparent) water types. The sailfin tetra Crenuchus spilurus is a small sexually dimorphic species composed of two main genetic lineages that live in black and clear water types. Recently, we have shown that the female sexual preference for male ornaments colouration differs between individuals inhabiting black and clear water types. Females from black waters do not choose males primarily based on colouration under strongly red-biased lighting, but females from clear waters do, which suggests that the importance of red colours for sexual behaviour differs between lineages of the sailfin tetra. Here, we evaluated the sailfin tetra female environmental colour preference through the choice between a red and a full spectrum illuminated environments. Females from black waters and clear waters preferred red-lightened environments. Such results suggest that the females are attracted to the red colouration outside the context of mating, irrespective of the prevailing lighting condition of their native environment. This preference for red illuminated environments may be important for several processes, including physiological and behavioural features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incomplete combustion of biomass and fossil fuels yields a variety of chemically distinct pyrolysis residues collectively referred to as black carbon (BC). Among these residues, dissolved black carbon (DBC) constitutes the water-soluble fraction, making it a significant component of the global dissolved organic carbon (DOC) pool. Consequently, it exerts an impact on the aquatic carbon cycle and global climate change. Owing to its unique molecular structure, DBC exhibits reduced reactivity in aquatic environments, thereby influencing the toxicity and environmental geochemical behavior of organic pollutants and heavy metals. While recent years have seen a surge in studies on DBC, yielding valuable insights, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding the fate and cycling of DBC. This review consolidates the advancements in analytical and determination methods for DBC and offers a critical assessment of the advantages and limitations associated with various analytical techniques. Furthermore, it comprehensively surveys our current understanding of DBC, encompassing its molecular composition, spatial distribution, sources, and biogeochemical processes. The review also underscores prevailing challenges related to quantitative and qualitative methods and underscores research gaps concerning the physio-chemical transformation of DBC. The overarching aim is to advance our comprehension of the biogeochemical cycle of DBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved black carbon (DBC) is the remobilized soluble fraction of black carbon (BC). DBC, present in all aquatic environments, is a heterogeneous mixture of various pyrogenic aromatics. For a long time, oceans were solely considered to be the largest pool of DBC. However, recent research indicates that lakes might also contain significant concentrations of DBC. Anthropogenic BC emissions and seasonal changes driven by climate change could increase DBC flux to glacial and fluvial lacustrine systems with unique effects. In this article, current knowledge concerning the formation, sources, transportation, fate, and environmental implications of DBC in lacustrine networks is presented. Furthermore, ambiguities pertaining to terminology and methodologies used in the separation and quantification of DBC are also reviewed, and research gaps that should be addressed in future studies are highlighted. Constraining DBC dynamics and residence times in lacustrine systems could provide valuable insights into anthropogenic perturbations of the global carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) is promising source for mobile and portable applications, but the electrocatalysts are based on metal noble alloys or doping elements to minimize the incomplete ethanol oxidation and poisoning effect. While the main problem persists, this study describes the enhancement of ethanol oxidation reaction by adding graphene (G) to Vulcan XC-72R carbon black (C) metal support, with different C/G ratios. The Graphene was prepared from exfoliated graphite following by dried at ambient temperature. The 60 wt% graphene hybrid support enhances the current density at 5% cyclic voltammetry (CV) and 127% chronoamperometry (CA) higher than carbon pure support in acid electrolyte, whereas in alkaline, graphene (60 wt%) showed the highest electrochemical activity with an increase of current 82% (CV) and 130% (CA). Therefore, we demonstrated the enhancement of the catalyst electrochemical activity in both electrolytes through a simple synthesis method. The 40 wt% carbon and 60 wt% graphene hybrid support achieving higher performance in ethanol oxidation, evidencing a potential application in DEFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous study, we developed a novel analytical method to directly and simultaneously detect taste- and odor-active compounds using graphite carbon black (GCB)-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS). In this study, we aimed to evaluate food quality using a variety of soy sauces using the method to discriminate each product. Graphite carbon black-laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry allowed the provision of hundreds of MS peaks derived from soy sauces in both positive and negative modes without any tedious sample pretreatments. Principal component analysis using the obtained MS peaks clearly distinguished three soy sauce products based on the manufacturing countries (Japan, China, and India). Moreover, this method identified distinct MS peaks for discrimination, which significantly correlated with their quantitative amounts in the products. Thus, GCB-LDI-MS analysis was established as a simple and rapid technique for food analysis, illustrating the chemical patterns of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the widespread use and improper emissions of carbon black nanoparticles (CBNPs), the adverse effects of CBNPs on human health have attracted much attention. In toxicological research, carbon black is frequently utilized as a negative control because of its low toxicity and poor solubility. However, recent studies have indicated that inhalation exposure to CBNPs could be a risk factor for severe and prolonged pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. At present, the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis induced by CBNPs is still not fully elucidated, but it is known that with small particle size and large surface area, CBNPs are more easily ingested by cells, leading to organelle damage and abnormal interactions between organelles. Damaged organelle and abnormal organelles interactions lead to cell structure and function disorders, which is one of the important factors in the development and occurrence of various diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of organelle structure, function, and interaction mechanisms, while also summarizing the research advancements in organelles and organelle interactions in CBNPs-induced pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the efficient resource utilization of scrap tires, pyrolysis carbon black (PCB), and pyrolysis oil of waste tire (TPO), scrap tires' products were treated using dry styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) polymer modification of asphalt. The products of scrap tires, PCB and TPO, were handled using dry SBS polymer modification of asphalt based on the effective resource use of scrap tires. The consequences of scrap tires, PCB and TPO, were taken using dry SBS polymer modification of asphalt based on the effective resource use of scrap tires. PCB and TPO composite effect seriously degraded. Based on this, the impact of dry SBS polymer modification on the functionality of PCB-TPO-modified asphalt and the mechanism of modification was examined. According to the investigation, the SBS polymer was evenly distributed and fully developed in the asphalt mixture, which significantly enhanced the qualities of asphalt and the asphalt mixture and performed a positive role in the internal structure of the asphalt mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fog holes were reported over cities of the Indo‐Gangetic plains of India, which were attributed to the urban heat island (UHI) effect. The present study reports the observational evidence of fog holes over rural area using satellite and ground observations. Delayed onset and early dissipation of fog is observed over the holes. Numerical simulations demonstrate that aerosol‐radiation interaction (ARI) leads to fog holes over both urban and rural regions. The anthropogenic aerosols and associated ARI dominate the UHI effect over the urban fog holes, while the aerosol absorption due to ARI mainly controls the rural fog holes. Turning off aerosol absorption causes ∼ 2 hours delay in the fog dissipation over urban area, whereas it yields persistent fog over rural area under saturated environment. An enhancement of soluble Aitken black carbon over the fog holes indicates the importance of aging process during fog dissipation. Plain Language Summary: This study reports the occurrence of fog holes over rural and urban regions and investigates the mechanism behind the formation of fog holes using DM‐Chem. The main reason behind the fog hole formation over Indo‐Gangetic plains is the absorption of radiation by the total black carbon aerosols. The absence of the absorbing component of aerosol‐radiation interaction leads to the occurrence of fog over both the urban and rural hole areas. The fog hole areas are correlated with an enhanced formation of small sized soluble black carbon aerosols. These findings suggest the need for detailed aging processes of carbonaceous particles in atmospheric models. Key Points: Fog holes over the rural regions reported for the first timeDelayed onset and early dissipation of fog over the hole regionsAerosol radiation effect (absorption) dominates over the urban heat island effect [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the effects of additives on the properties of rubber grades suitable for sealing applications in high-pressure H 2 gas infrastructure, five acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) vulcanizates with different fillers and curing agents are investigated. Structure-property relationships of these grades are correlated with the additives and properties required for high-pressure gas atmospheres are evaluated. Further, the influence of the exposure to high-pressure hydrogen, i.e., hydrogen uptake and morphological changes after exposure, is evaluated. With the addition of a silica filler and a coupling agent for improved filler-matrix interfaces, similar overall properties, e.g. crosslink density, tensile strength, and storage modulus are obtained, compared to a carbon black (CB) filled grade. Density reduction after hydrogen exposure is significantly higher for CB-filled NBR, indicating higher hydrogen uptake in CB-filled rubber compared to silica filled NBR grades, or slower gas desorption. However, CB-filled specimens show to be less prone to filler migration than the silica-filled samples. • Effects of NBR formulations on properties for high-pressure gas systems were tested. • Functionalized silica enhances typical properties to a comparable range like CB. • The balance of additives results in suitable RGD performance. • Silica filled NBR shows lower H 2 uptake compared to non-plasticized CB filled NBR. • Morphology of CB filled NBR is less affected by H 2 than silica filled grades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau (the HTP), referred to as "the third pole" with an excessive warming rate, exerts strong impacts on the global environment. As one of warming contributors, atmospheric brown carbon (BrC) remains limited scientific understanding in the HTP due to a scarcity of observations. In this study, we present a study of the light‐absorbing properties of methanol‐soluble brown carbon (MeS‐BrC) and water‐soluble brown carbon (WS‐BrC) during 2018–2021. Highly spatiotemporal variations of BrC light absorptions were observed. In the HTP marginal area, elevated BrC absorption coefficients at 365 nm (babs,365) and levoglucosan concentrations were obtained, and MeS‐BrC exhibits approximately 1.3–1.8 times higher absorption compared to WS‐BrC. We determined that BrC light absorptions was largely attributed to biomass burning (29%–35%). BrC can act as a potent warming agent in the HTP marginal area, with high direct solar absorption (25%–47% relative to black carbon). Plain Language Summary: Atmospheric brown carbon (BrC) remains low scientific understanding in the HTP due to a scarcity of observations. Here, we present a plateau‐scale study of the light‐absorbing properties of methanol‐soluble brown carbon (MeS‐BrC) and water‐soluble brown carbon (WS‐BrC) during the period of 2018–2021. This study highlights the contribution of BrC to the HTP warming. Higher BrC light absorption was observed in the HTP marginal area compared with the central HTP. Enhanced radiative absorption effect of WS‐BrC was obtained in the HTP, with an annual average of ∼25% compared with BC in Qinghai Lake and Ngari, and as high as 46.5% in Purang. The results confirmed the importance of BrC from biomass burning in contributing to light‐absorbing aerosols in this region. Key Points: Brown carbon (BrC) can be a strong warming agent in the marginal Himalayas and Tibetan PlateauHighly spatiotemporal variations of plateau‐scale BrC were observedBrC light absorptions was largely attributed to biomass burning [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black carbon (BC) has emerged as an integral part of the global carbon (C) cycle, constituting 12% ± 5% of the organic C pool in rivers and soils, with the potential to generate negative climate feedback. However, its ability to sequester C depends on the recalcitrant nature of BC in the environment, which is under debate. Using CTO‐375 method and by measuring concentrations and isotopic compositions of particulate BC (δ13CPBC), we explore the transformation of particulate black carbon (PBC) along the atmosphere‐river‐ocean continuum. Significantly high δ13CPBC in the ocean compared to rivers and atmospheric particulate matter indicates (a) degradation of PBC, potentially through photodegradation and leaching, and/or (b) availability of an enriched source other than fluvial or aeolian inputs. This evidence for degradation of PBC in aquatic systems warrants rethinking on its C sequestration potential and role in aquatic C biogeochemistry and further raises concerns regarding the use of sedimentary BC as a paleoenvironmental proxy. Plain Language Summary: Particulate black carbon (PBC) forms ∼12% ± 5% of the particulate organic carbon pool in aquatic systems. Black carbon has been considered highly recalcitrant and therefore a potent sink for carbon. Paleo‐environmental and biogeochemical studies have been conducted assuming BC as highly stable and its isotopic composition to remain unaltered after formation. This study explores the variability in stable isotopic composition of PBC in the riverine, atmospheric, and oceanic systems and provides evidence contrary to the general belief of the refractory nature of BC, which warrants revisiting and rethinking of the BC dynamics in aquatic systems. Key Points: Particulate black carbon (PBC) concentration decreases along the river ocean continuumStable carbon isotopic composition of the oceanic PBC pool is higher compared to the riverine and atmospheric poolsIsotopic evidence suggests degradation of PBC with the preferential loss of lighter carbon [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is crucial for maintaining concrete infrastructure. The data collected by these sensors are processed and analyzed using various analysis tools under different loadings and exposure to external conditions. Sensor-based investigation on concrete has been carried out for technologies used for designing structural health monitoring sensors. A Sensor-Infused Structural Analysis such as interfacial bond-slip model, corroded steel bar, fiber-optic sensors, carbon black and polypropylene fiber, concrete cracks, concrete carbonation, strain transfer model, and vibrational-based monitor. The compressive strength (CS) and split tensile strength (STS) values of the analyzed material fall within a range from 26 to 36 MPa and from 2 to 3 MPa, respectively. The material being studied has a range of flexural strength (FS) and density values that fall between 4.5 and 7 MPa and between 2250 and 2550 kg/m3. The average squared difference between the predicted and actual compressive strength values was found to be 4.405. With cement ratios of 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5, the shear strength value ranged from 4.4 to 5.6 MPa. The maximum shear strength was observed for a water–cement ratio of 0.4, with 5.5 MPa, followed by a water–cement ratio of 0.3, with 5 MPa. Optimizing the water–cement ratio achieves robust concrete (at 0.50), while a lower ratio may hinder strength (at 0.30). PZT sensors and stress-wave measurements aid in the precise structural monitoring, enhanced by steel fibers and carbon black, for improved sensitivity and mechanical properties. These findings incorporate a wide range of applications, including crack detection; strain and deformation analysis; and monitoring of temperature, moisture, and corrosion. This review pioneers sensor technology for concrete monitoring (Goal 9), urban safety (Goal 11), climate resilience (Goal 13), coastal preservation (Goal 14), and habitat protection (Goal 15) of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the need for decarbonization in energy generation, it is necessary to develop electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), a key process in energy generation systems such as fuel cells and metal–air batteries. Perovskite–carbon material composites have emerged as active and stable electrocatalysts for the ORR, and the interaction between both components is a crucial aspect for electrocatalytic activity. This work explores different mixing methods for composite preparation, including mortar mixing, ball milling, and hydrothermal and thermal treatments. Hydrothermal treatment combined with ball milling resulted in the most favorable electrocatalytic performance, promoting intimate and extensive contact between the perovskite and carbon material and improving electrocatalytic activity. Employing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), an increase in the number of M-O-C species was observed, indicating enhanced interaction between the perovskite and the carbon material due to the adopted mixing methods. This finding was further corroborated by temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) techniques. Interestingly, the ball milling method results in similar performance to the hydrothermal method in the zinc–air battery and, thus, is preferable because of the ease and straightforward scalability of the preparation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable health monitoring sensors, when employed to monitor pulse and sweat volume in real‐time during human physical activity, serve as an effective preventative measure against abnormal health conditions, such as elevated heart rate or excessive dehydration. Herein, a dual‐functional sensor based on a sandwich structure composed of polyvinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene / conductive carbon black perforated film (named PCp film) and corncob sponge is designed to monitor pulse and sweat volume. The PCp film prepared by the breath figure method serves as a piezoresistive sensor with high sensitivity (0.06 kPa−1), a fast response time (0.9 ms), and high reusability for pulse monitoring. Furthermore, the PCp film has excellent water permeability (27.3 L m−2 h−1); thus, the sweat permeating through the PCp film can be absorbed by the corncob sponge. The sandwich‐structured capacitive sensor is also highly sensitive (6.021 pF nL−1) to the absorbed sweat and is highly reusable. In addition, the dual‐functional sensor is successfully integrated into a sports bracelet system to display real‐time pulse and sweat‐volume data of the wearer. This approach provides a dependable foundation for the advancement of multifunctional sensors in the field of sports monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the primary focus for scientific authorities and regulatory departments revolves around water pollution. In this regard, photocatalysis has emerged as a highly effective, affordable, and goal‐oriented approach. Thus, recognizing the urgency of this issue, we focused our efforts towards developing a novel ternary photocatalytic structure based on mesoporous SrSnO3, combined with polypyrrole‐doped carbon black (PPC) and platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs). Pt NPs, PPC and SrSnO3‐based nanocomposite photocatalyst was developed through a very simple chemical method followed by ultrasonication and photoreduction techniques. XRD analysis confirmed orthorhombic phase of SrSnO3, while the formation of the ternary nanocomposite among Pt NPs, PPC and SrSnO3 has been confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the presence of Pt NPs (5–15 nm), beads/dense cocoon like structures of PPC along with rod, spherical and needle shape nanostructures of SrSnO3 in newly created ternary photocatalyst. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) showed lowering of band gap energy in case of Pt@PPC/SrSnO3. Newly developed Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 nanocomposite worked efficiently when employed on colorless insecticide imidacloprid (IMD) and on colored methylene blue (MB) dye under UV‐light. Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 photocatalyst exhibited excellent performance with 96.03 % removal of pollutant IMD in only 20 min, almost 296 % more efficient than bare SrSnO3. Furthermore, the Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 ternary photocatalyst showed rapid removal of MB with almost total elimination of dye molecule in just 16 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioelectro-Fenton (BEF) utilizes microorganisms to generate electrons at the anode and transfer them to the cathode via an external circuit to generate hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) and drive the Fenton reaction to produce OH•. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the ratio of nano zero-valent iron-containing biochar and conductive carbon black (nZVI-biochar/CCB) with the chitosan-coated on the surface of the cathode material to promote H 2 O 2 production and reduce the internal resistance of the BEF system. The BEF system using the optimized cathode catalysts showed a 2.6-fold increase in power density and a 2.03-fold increase in open-circuit voltage over the BEF reaction using graphite felt cathodes only. This finding demonstrated that the optimized cathode improved the capability of the cathode to receive electrons. The BEF system with the optimized cathodic catalyst completely removed 400 mg/L isopropanol within 24 h, and the treated wastewater was almost nonbiotoxic. [Display omitted] • Microbial fuel cells produce electricity to drive the electro-Fenton (EF) process. • Bioelectro-Fenton (BEF) process removes isopropanol from wastewater. • Optimization of cathodic catalyst ratio improves H 2 O 2 generation in the EF system. • BEF system with optimized cathodic catalyst enhances power and isopropanol removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employs potassium ferrate (K2FeO4) for the oxidation treatment of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) under neutral and acidic conditions. A wet flash evaporation process is utilized to prepare natural rubber/MWNTs/carbon black composites, enhancing the performance of rubber composites. The increased oxidation level of MWNTs enhances their hydrophilicity, increases the quantity of oxygen‐containing hydroxyl groups on the surface, promotes dispersion within the natural rubber matrix, and ultimately improves the performance of the rubber products. The effective dispersion of MWNTs reduces electron transport resistance, forming a favorable electron transport channel in natural rubber. Experimental results indicate that K2FeO4 achieves the highest oxidation degree and optimal performance in an acidic environment. Compared to untreated MWNTs rubber composites, the oxidized MWNTs rubber composites exhibit a 34.9% reduction in the Payne effect, a 15.7% decrease in wear, a 12.7% reduction in rolling resistance, and a two‐order‐of‐magnitude increase in conductivity. This study provides a novel approach for preparing water‐dispersible MWNTs and high‐performance rubber composites, holding potential applications in premium rubber products and conductive rubber fields. Highlights: The wet flash refining process improved the dispersion of MWNTs.K2FeO4 oxidation of MWNTs was enhanced under acidic conditions.Oxidized MWNTs combined with CB to form a CB‐MWNTs‐CB filler network.Oxidized MWNTs and CB increased the "ball‐chain" arrangement in NR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study produced and characterized composites based on nitrile rubber reinforced with rockwool fiber (RW) and carbon black (CB). Ten formulations with dual‐filler loading amounts ranging from 0 to 40 phr of CB and RW were designed using a simplex‐centroid mixture. The composites were assessed regarding their rheometric, rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties. The use of the RW in the dual‐filler system contributed to overall improvements in Shore A hardness, tear strength, modulus at 50%, and resilience, as well as reducing the Payne effect. Instead of using 40 phr of CB alone, a dual‐filler system comprising 20 phr of CB and 20 phr of RW lowers the Payne effect by around 60%, improves resilience by 35%, modulus at 50% strain by 8%, and the residual stress at equilibrium (σ∞/σ0) by 7%. On the other hand, the tensile strength is reduced by 23%. The optimum cure time, crosslink density, and maximum decomposition rate temperature were not affected by the rockwool's presence in the dual‐filler system. In general, the use of RW in combination with CB is advantageous mainly because it reduces compressive stress relaxation, which is an important property for sealing applications. Highlights: Dual‐filler systems based on carbon black (CB) and rockwool fiber (RW) offer advantages.RW‐rich dual‐filler systems reduce stress relaxation.RW‐rich dual‐filler systems reduce the Payne effect.CB‐rich dual‐filler systems increase tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of iron oxide red pigment, organic red 254 pigment, titanium white pigment, and carbon black pigment on the properties of wood fiber (WF)reinforced high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composites under outdoor aging conditions were investigated. The results indicate the addition of pigments in the outdoor aging process has a certain physical protection effect on the composites, effectively preventing the damage of ultraviolet rays on the WF/HDPE composites, and the mechanical experiments show that the pigments protect the composites more obviously in the first 3 months. Among them, the carbon black pigment had the best color‐fixing effect on the composites, with the ∆E* value is only 4.1, and the protective effect on the composites was relatively good due to its special structure. The quality change also verified again that the carbon black pigment has a certain protective effect on the plant fiber composites in the pre‐aging period outdoors, in which the mass of the composites with added carbon black pigment increased by 0.14%. Comprehensively, it shows that the addition of pigment cannot completely prevent the photo‐oxidation reaction of the composites from occurring, but it can effectively slow down the aging process of the composites and prolong the service life. Highlights: WF/HDPE‐modified composites were prepared by injection molding.The surface color of composites with pigment additions was analyzed.The addition of pigments effectively protects the composites.Mechanical and thermal properties have also been investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution around industrial area has become a serious concern for both the public and local government. Thus, research on PM2.5 characterization is urgently needed. This study identifies the concentration and chemical characteristics of PM2.5 to provide an in-depth understanding of the composition of these particles around the largest industrial complex in North Jakarta. Sixty samples of PM2.5 were collected from residential sites around industrial areas in North Jakarta. Samples were collected on Teflon filters using a SuperSASS instrument during the period from February to July 2023, representing the wet and dry seasons. Mass concentrations of PM2.5, black carbon, and 19 chemical elements were determined. The average mass concentration of PM2.5 in the wet and dry seasons was 27.81±11.82 µg/m³ and 46.63±14.37 µg/m³, respectively. Although the concentration of PM2.5 was lower during the wet season, the concentrations of black carbon and certain elements did not decrease significantly. This shows that pollutants play an important role in both seasons in the study location. Sulfur is the most abundant element with the average concentration in the dry season (2,727.89 ng/m³ ) higher than in the wet season (1,983.18 ng/m³ ). The PM2.5 mass reconstruction results show that ammonium sulfate and black carbon have the largest portion of PM2.5 mass. The results are expected to be used as a scientific reference in studying air pollution problems in this region and assist in formulating air protection policies to reduce PM2.5 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow carbon nanospheres (HCNS) were prepared from carbon black (CB) derived from spent tyre pyrolysis oil. The pristine CB produced by partial oxidation of the pyrolysis oil in a drop tube furnace was subsequently oxidised in air in a fixed bed reactor to yield HCNS. The effect of oxidation temperature (300 to 700°C) and time (1 to 8 h) on the burn‐off (Bt) of the sample over the duration (t) of oxidation and average reaction rate (Rt) was assessed. The BET surface area and pore volume and the nanostructure of the HCNS samples obtained were characterised using N2 adsorption–desorption and high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) techniques, respectively. Higher temperature and longer oxidation time led to higher Bt. As Bt increased, the BET surface area and pore volume initially increased linearly due to the removal of the amorphous core and then decreased because of the collapse of the shell of the carbon nanostructure. At Bt of ~56%, the maximum BET surface area and pore volume of the HCNS were 383.2 m2 g−1 and 0.39 cm3 g−1, respectively, compared to ~19.5 m2 g−1 and 0.033 cm3 g−1 of the pristine CB. The HRTEM images indicate that the change in BET surface area corresponds to the formation of the HCNS, as the core of the CB particle was preferentially consumed to create a hollow structure. The formation of HCNS follows an internal oxidation model, which is characterised by rapid core consumption and relatively slow shell consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has become more aware of environmental concerns and the importance of sustainability. Using natural rubber instead of synthetic rubber is one step toward a greener environment in a variety of technological applications, including the fabrication of vehicle tires. The objective of this work is to optimize the formulation for the production of airless tires, primarily for military vehicle applications, using natural rubber. Two natural rubber types, SIR 20 and RSS 1, with carbon black variants N220 and N550 as reinforcing agents present novel synergistic effects, and potentially tailor the properties of the rubber compound more precisely to meet the demanding requirements of military vehicle tires. A comprehensive assessment was conducted to evaluate various physical, damping, processing, and mechanical properties under standard conditions and subsequent aging at 70 °C for 72 h. Comparative analysis against control samples revealed notable improvements, particularly in abrasion resistance, crucial for tire wear. The combination of RSS 1 and CB N220 showed significant enhancements in strength and rigidity, suggesting their viability as alternative fillers. Leveraging dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results, the rubber compound underwent optimization to meet airless tire requirements, encompassing durability, comfort, and performance. This nuanced understanding of rubber's viscoelastic behavior holds paramount importance in designing puncture-resistant airless tires with optimal performance attributes. Combination of innovative materials and advanced characterization techniques to address the specific challenges of enhancing airless tire performance for military vehicles in challenging operational environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on improving SiC-Ti 3 SiC 2 composites fabricated through reactive melt infiltration (RMI) using TiSi 2 alloy to optimize their microstructure, mechanical, and corrosion properties. The results indicated that achieving a balance between the carbon black content and the porosity of the preforms led to a decrease in residual TiSi 2 and an increase in the content of the MAX phase in the composites. The composite, derived from a SiC60-C40 preform with 35% porosity, contained 76 vol% SiC, 22 vol% Ti 3 SiC 2 , and 2 vol% TiSi 2. The "time window" based on two reactions specific to the TiSi 2 and C facilitates the creation of infiltration channels and the reduction of residual TiSi 2. With minimal residual TiSi2, the composite exhibited a flexural strength of 395 MPa, a fracture toughness of 5.24 MPa·m1/2, and maintained over 70% of its original strength after thermal shock below 1200ºC. Enhanced corrosion resistance was attributed to a protective MgTiO 3 layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-polybutylene succinate (PBS) is a biodegradable polymer obtained from renewable feedstock having physical–mechanical properties like traditional low-density polyethylene (LDPE). PBS is employed by many manufacturing sectors, from biomedical to agri-food and cosmetics. Although some studies have already evaluated the resistance of PBS to photodegradation caused by natural outdoor solar exposure (UVA-UVB), a systematic study on the resistance to degradation caused by exposure to UVC rays, which is the subject of this study, has not yet been carried out. PBS was exposed to UVC either neat or filled with 2% carbon black (CB). Mechanical and physical characterization (tensile, hardness, calorimetry, contact angle, morphology, and surface roughness analyses) indicates that the bulk and surface properties of the polymer matrix changes after exposure to UVC radiations, due to a severe degradation. However, the presence of carbon black compensates for the degradation phenomenon. Because UVC rays are used for the sterilization process, necessary in applications such as biomedical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, food, and other products, a comparison of the protocol used in this paper with the literature's data has been reported and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastomer composites for dynamic mechanical applications with a low dissipation of energy are of great importance in view of their application in tire compounds. In this work, furnace carbon black functionalized with 2-2,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-1-yl-1,3-propanediol (SP) was used in place of silica in an elastomer composite based on poly(styrene-co-butadiene) from solution anionic polymerization and poly(1,4-cis-isoprene) from Hevea Brasiliensis. The traditional coupling agent used for silica was also used for the CB/SP adduct: 3,3′-bis(triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide (TESPT). The composite with the CB/SP + TESPT system revealed a lower Payne effect, higher dynamic rigidity, and lower hysteresis, compared to the composite with CB + TESPT, although the latter composite had a higher crosslinking density. The properties of the silica and the CB/SP + TESPT-based composites appear similar, though in the presence of slightly higher hysteresis and lower ultimate properties for the CB/SP-based composite. The use of CB in place of silica allows us to prepare lighter compounds and paves the way for the preparation of tire compounds with lower environmental impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A voltammetric sensor comprising a paste electrode made of graphitized thermal carbon black CarboblackC and nanosized zeolite MFI was developed for selective recognition and determination of tryptophan enantiomers. It was found that in determining tryptophan enantiomers, the dependence remains linear at concentrations from 5×10−5 to 1×10−3 M. The detection limits of tryptophan L‐ and D‐enantiomers were calculated to be 4.98×10−7 M and 3.20×10−7 M, while their lower limits of determinable concentrations–1.66×10−6 M and 1.07×10−6 M, respectively. The sensor is more sensitive to D‐tryptophan (ΔEp=20 mV, ipD/ipL=1.58). The developed sensor was shown to successfully determine tryptophan enantiomers in model solutions of pure enantiomers, in a mixture of enantiomers, in biological fluids, and in tablet forms of biologically active additives. It was shown that the suggested sensor made it possible to determine the ratio of L‐ and D‐enantiomers of tryptophan in a mixture with a high probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildfires frequently occur in Ukraine during agricultural open-burning seasons in spring and autumn. High aerosol concentrations from fire emissions can significantly affect meteorological processes via direct and indirect aerosol effects. To study these impacts, we selected a severe wildfire episode from April 2020 in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) and its surrounding area as a case study. We employed the Enviro-HIRLAM modeling system to simulate reference (REF) meteorological conditions, along with direct (DAE), indirect (IDAE), and combined (COMB) aerosol effects. In our simulations, black carbon (BC) and organic carbon (OC) comprised 70–80% of all aerosol mass in the region, represented in two layers of higher concentrations: one near the surface and the other 3–4 km above the surface. Our simulations showed that the inclusion of aerosol effects into the modeling framework led to colder (up to −3 °C) and drier (relative humidity drop up to −20%) conditions near the surface. We also observed localized changes in cloudiness, precipitation (mainly redistribution), and wind speed (up to ±4 m/s), particularly during the movement of atmospheric cold fronts. Larger uncertainties were observed in coarser model simulations when direct aerosol effects were considered. Quantifying the aerosol effects is crucial for predicting and promptly detecting changes that could exacerbate unfavorable weather conditions and wildfires. Such knowledge is essential for improving the effectiveness of emergency response measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rheological behavior of colloidal dispersions is of paramount importance in a wide range of applications, including construction materials, energy storage systems, and food industry products. These dispersions consistently exhibit non-Newtonian behaviors, a consequence of intricate interplays involving colloids morphology, volume fraction, and interparticle forces. Understanding how colloids structure under flow remains a challenge, particularly in the presence of attractive forces leading to cluster formation. In this study, we adopt a synergistic approach, combining rheology with ultra small-angle x-ray scattering, to probe the flow-induced structural transformations of attractive carbon black (CB) dispersions and their effects on the viscosity. Our key findings can be summarized as follows. First, testing different CB volume fractions, in the high shear rate hydrodynamic regime, CB particles aggregate to form fractal clusters. Their size conforms to a power law of the shear rate, ξ c ∝ γ ˙ − m , with m ≃ 0.5. Second, drawing insights from the fractal structure of clusters, we compute an effective volume fraction ϕ eff and find that microstructural models adeptly account for the hydrodynamic stress contributions. We identify a critical shear rate γ ∗ ˙ and a critical volume fraction ϕ eff ∗ , at which the clusters percolate to form a dynamical network. Third, we show that the apparent yield stress measured at low shear rates inherits its properties from the percolation point. Finally, through data scaling and the integration of Einstein's viscosity equation, we revisit and discuss the Caggioni–Trappe–Spicer model, revealing a significant connection between its empirical parameters and the structural properties of CB dispersions under flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect of non‐relaxing torsion loadings on the fatigue lifetime reinforcement of carbon black filled natural rubber is fully addressed. Torsion fatigue tests with different loading ratios have been performed with highly notched axisymmetric‐shaped specimens. Finite element analysis is used to predict the mechanical state at any point in the specimens. The prediction is significantly improved by taking into account the heterogeneous accommodation. The first Haigh diagram under fatigue torsion is built and analyzed by calculating the minimum loading in terms of the Cauchy stress as the normal stress to the crack for the minimum angle prescribed during the cycle. A strong lifetime reinforcement has been observed, which is found to be of the same amplitude to the one obtained under uniaxial tension with the same material. This has been confirmed by specific tests that combined non‐relaxing torsion and non‐relaxing tension loadings. Post‐mortem analysis carried out at the macroscopic and the microscopic scales enabled us to identify damage mechanisms, especially in the cases where the lifetime reinforcement was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Carbon black nanoparticles (CBNPs), a common and important manufacturing material, have been proven to exert adverse effects on brain function; however, the underlying neurotoxicity remains poorly understood. To unravel the deteriorating effect of CBNPs on the brain, a chronic long-term carbon black exposure mouse model (0, 0.15 mg/ml, 0.5 mg/ml, 1.5 mg/ml groups) was established via nasal injection of CBNPs for 3 months. Intriguingly, the evidence directly showed the penetration of CBNPs in the brain, as the electron microscopic data showed an obvious deposition of CBNPs in various brain regions, where the mitochondrion displayed significant destruction. The metabolite changes based on GC/MS metabolic analysis displayed striking differences after CBNP exposure. With principal component analysis and the PLS-DA model, the brain metabolites of the control group and the treatment group were significantly distinguished, and these changes were involved in phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism. In detail, glutamine, glycine, lactic acid and norepinephrine, the excitotoxic metabolites, were markedly increased. Collectively, the current study provides new insights into brain metabolic homeostasis after CBNP exposure, revealing potential targets in CBNP-induced neurotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To elucidate the specific mechanical impact of carbon black (CB) filler–rubber interactions on reinforcement, CB particles are subjected to graphitization at 1300 °C and oxidation through concentrated nitric acid treatment to modulate their surface activity. Alongside untreated CB particles, the influence of surface activity and the oxygen distribution are investigated to assess their role in shaping CB aggregate structures using X‐ray absorption spectrum (XAS) and X‐ray computed tomography (CT) with spatial resolution of 30 nm. Meanwhile, virgin and modified CBs are blended in natural rubber with varying amounts (10, 30, 50 phr) and the aggregates distributions in rubber are investigated by nano‐CT. Combined with the mechanical properties of rubber composites and parameters of filler networks, the mechanical contributions arising from filler–rubber interactions are quantified. The findings underscore the robust interactions between oxidized CB and rubber matrix, exhibiting a mechanical property enhancement ratio of ≈59.2% at low strains in comparison to normal CB filler. The results indicate the synergies encompass of filler network, rubber chains, and filler–rubber interactions all play important roles for reinforcement, which aligns with the broader understanding of filler–rubber interactions and CB reinforcement mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The platinum catalysts based on carbon black and carbon nanotubes supports have been obtained via pulse alternating current technique. The synthesized Pt/C catalysts showed better electric transport characteristics and the carbon monoxide poisoning resistance in comparison with the commercial Pt/C owing to both the size of the platinum nanoparticles and their agglomeration on the support surface, and the morphology of the carbon support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term measurements of the mass concentration of black carbon (BC) in the atmosphere (MBC) with well-constrained accuracy are indispensable to quantify its emission, transport, and deposition. The aerosol light absorption coefficient (babs), usually measured by a filter-based absorption photometer, including an Aethalometer (AE), is often used to estimate MBC. The measured babs is converted to MBC by assuming a value for the mass absorption cross section (MAC). Previously, we derived the MAC for AE (MAC (AE)) from measured babs and independently measured MBC values at two sites in the Arctic. MBC was measured with a filter-based absorption photometer with a heated inlet (COSMOS). The accuracy of the COSMOS-derived MBC (MBC (COSMOS)) was within about 15%. Here, we obtained additional MAC (AE) measurements to improve understanding of its variability and uncertainty. We measured babs (AE) and MBC (COSMOS) at Alert (2018–2020), Barrow (2012–2022), Ny-Ålesund (2012–2019), and Pallas (2019–2022). At Pallas, we also obtained four-wavelength photoacoustic aerosol absorption spectrometer (PAAS-4λ) measurements of babs. babs (AE) and MBC (COSMOS) were tightly correlated; the average MAC (AE) at the four sites was 11.4 ± 1.2 m2 g−1 (mean ± 1σ) at 590 nm and 7.76 ± 0.73 m2 g−1 at 880 nm. The spatial variability of MAC (AE) was about 11% (1σ), and its year-to-year variability was about 18%. We compared MAC (AE) in the Arctic with values at mid-latitudes, measured by previous studies, and with values obtained by using other types of filter-based absorption photometer, and PAAS-4λ. Copyright © 2024 American Association for Aerosol Research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the utilization of images collected from low-quality dash cameras on passenger vehicles for the estimation of traffic-related air pollution (TRAP). We conducted mobile monitoring along Taiwan Avenue, Taichung, Taiwan, and collected pollution concentration data including carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), black carbon (BC), and particle number (PN). Dash cameras record images that reveal the environment through which the vehicle passes. Image semantic information such as the proportion of sky, buildings, traffic, and vegetation can be extracted through deep learning models. Training of deep learning models requires the pixel-level labeling of each image, which is labor intensive. We propose the use of publicly available data sets for the training of the deep learning model. Transfer learning was utilized to customize the model for locally collected, unlabeled, low-quality dash camera images. TRAP was estimated with a hybrid model consisting the land-use regression (LUR) and image semantic information. With a five-fold cross-validation, the hybrid model with transfer learning resulted in improved R2 values for CO2 (R2=0.81), NOx (R2=0.64), PN (R2=0.65), and BC (R2=0.87). Public labeled data sets and transfer learning may be helpful when labeled data are difficult to acquire in the local region. This work demonstrates the adaptation of image semantic information, extracted from videos captured from vehicle dash cameras, into a LUR model to improve pollutant estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Comparison of portable black carbon monitors with standard aethalometer AE33. • The effect of ambient environment and built-in algorithms were investigated. • Suggestion on application scenario of each micro monitor proposed. Black carbon (BC) is associated with adverse human health and climate change. Mapping BC spatial distribution imperatively requires low-cost and portable devices. Several portable BC monitors are commercially available, but their accuracy and reliability are not always satisfactory during continuous field observation. This study evaluated three models of portable black carbon monitors, C12, MA350 and DST, and investigates the factors that affect their performance. The monitors were tested in urban Beijing, where portable devices running for one month alongside a regular-size reference aethalometer AE33. The study considers several factors that could influence the monitors' performance, including ambient weather, aerosol composition, loading artifacts, and built-in algorithms. The results show that MA350 and DST present considerable discrepancies to the reference instrument, mainly occurring at lower concentrations (0–500 ng/m3) and higher concentrations (2500–8000 ng/m3), respectively. These discrepancies were likely caused by the anomalous noise of MA350 and the loading artifacts of DST. The study also suggests that the ambient environment has limited influence on the monitors' performance, but loading artifacts and accompanying compensation algorithms can result in unrealistic data. Based on the evaluation, the study suggests that C12 is the best choice for unsupervised field measurement, DST should be used in scenarios where frequent maintenance is available, and MA350 is suitable for research purposes with post-processing applicable. The study highlights the importance of assigning portable BC monitors to appropriate applications and the need for optimized real-time compensation algorithms. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole (12H-NEC) is considered as a highly promising liquid organic hydrogen carrier, but its commercial application is constrained by the requirement of large amounts of precious metal catalysts for dehydrogenation. Herein, Pd nanoclusters with an average particle size of 1.1 nm supported on amine groups modified carbon blacks (Pd/N–C HNO3) are developed to efficiently catalyze the dehydrogenation of 12H-NEC with a low loading of Pd (2.2 wt%, 0.12 mol%). Induced by the nitrogen doping in the carbon black, the d- band center of the Pd (111) surface shifts from −1.64 eV to −1.53 eV, resulting in the electron-deficient structure of thus-formed Pd nanoclusters owing to the electron transfer from Pd to N atoms and uniform distribution of Pd nanoclusters inside of carbon blacks. This electron transfer effectively tunes Pd0:Pdδ+ ratio for enhancing the adsorption of reactant species of 12H-NEC on the surface of Pd nanoclusters and hence facilitates the catalytic role of Pd nanoclusters in enhancing the hydrogen desorption performance of 12H-NEC. As a result, every step of the dehydrogenation of 12H-NEC under the catalysis of Pd nanoclusters on the nitrogen-doped support exhibits lower ΔG values compared to the non-doped support, which provides direct evidence to the important role of the nitrogen doping of the catalyst support in improving the dehydrogenation performance of 12H-NEC on the Pd surface. Therefore, a hydrogen release capacity of 5.60 wt% with 100% conversion and a selectivity of 90% could be obtained for 12H-NEC under the catalysis of Pd nanoclusters supported on amine-functionalized carbon black at 453 K with a low precious metal dosage (0.12 mol%). [Display omitted] •Pd nanoclusters with an average particle size of 1.1 nm supported on amine groups modified carbon blacks are developed. • A hydrogen release capacity of 5.60 wt% is obtained for 12H-NEC with an ultralow Pd dosage (0.12 mol%). • A H 2 release amount of 5.49 wt% with a capacity retention of 96% is achieved for 12H-NEC after five cycles for 40 h. • The d- band center of the Pd (111) surface shifts from −1.64eV to −1.53eV upon nitrogen doping. • DFT calculations reveal that ΔG for the dehydrogenation of 12H-NEC by the catalyst is decreased upon nitrogen doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aethalometer is a widely used instrument for black carbon (BC) mass concentration and light absorption coefficient (babs) measurements around the world. However, field intercomparison of the two popular models, dual-spot (AE33) and single-spot (AE31) Aethalometers, remains limited; in addition, the difference in secondary brown carbon (BrCsec) light absorption estimation between the two models is largely unknown. We performed full-year collocated AE33 and AE31 measurements in a megacity in southern China – Guangzhou. The babs values agree well between the two Aethalometers (R2 > 0.95), with AE33 / AE31 slopes ranging from 0.87 to 1.04 for seven wavelengths. AE33 consistently exhibits lower limits of detection (LODs) than AE31 for time resolutions of 2 to 60 min. The AE33 / AE31 slope for equivalent BC (eBC) was 1.2, implying the need for site-specific post-correction. The absorption Ångström exponent (AAE) obtained from different approaches does not agree very well between the two models, with the biggest discrepancy found in AAE880/950. The estimated BrCsec light absorption at 370 nm (babs370_BrCsec) was calculated using the minimum- R -squared (MRS) method for both Aethalometers. The babs370_BrCsec comparison yields a slope of 0.78 and an R2 of 0.72 between the two models, implying a non-negligible inter-instrument difference. This study highlights the high consistency in babs but less so in AAE between AE31 and AE33 and reveals site-specific correction for eBC estimation and non-negligible difference in BrCsec estimation. The results are valuable for data continuity in long-term Aethalometer measurements when transitioning from the older (AE31) to the newer (AE33) model, as anticipated in permanent global-climate and air-quality stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Unknown etiology Background: Over the past 30 years, painful reactions during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in tattooed individuals have been sporadically reported. These complications manifest as burning pain in tattooed skin areas, occasionally with swelling and redness, often leading to termination of the scanning. The exact cause is unclear, but iron oxide pigments in permanent make-up or elements in carbon black tattoos may play a role. Additionally, factors like tattoo age, design, and color may influence reactions. The existing literature lacks comprehensive evidence, leaving many questions unanswered. Case Report: We present the unique case of a young man who experienced recurring painful reactions in a recently applied black tattoo during multiple MRI scans. Despite the absence of ferrimagnetic ingredients in the tattoo ink, the patient reported intense burning sensations along with transient erythema and edema. Interestingly, the severity of these reactions gradually decreased over time, suggesting a time-dependent factor contributing to the problem. This finding highlights the potential influence of pigment particle density in the skin on the severity and risk of MRI interactions. We hypothesize that the painful sensations could be triggered by excitation of dermal C-fibers by conductive elements in the tattoo ink, likely carbon particles. Conclusions: Our case study highlights that MRI-induced tattoo reactions may gradually decrease over time. While MRI scans occasionally can cause transient reactions in tattoos, they do not result in permanent skin damage and remain a safe and essential diagnostic tool. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these reactions and explore preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biogeochemical processing of metals including the fabrication of novel nanomaterials from metal contaminated waste streams by microbial cells is an area of intense interest in the environmental sciences. Results: Here we focus on the fate of Ce during the microbial reduction of a suite of Ce-bearing ferrihydrites with between 0.2 and 4.2 mol% Ce. Cerium K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) analyses showed that trivalent and tetravalent cerium co-existed, with a higher proportion of tetravalent cerium observed with increasing Ce-bearing of the ferrihydrite. The subsurface metal-reducing bacterium Geobacter sulfurreducens was used to bioreduce Ce-bearing ferrihydrite, and with 0.2 mol% and 0.5 mol% Ce, an Fe(II)-bearing mineral, magnetite (Fe(II)(III)2O4), formed alongside a small amount of goethite (FeOOH). At higher Ce-doping (1.4 mol% and 4.2 mol%) Fe(III) bioreduction was inhibited and goethite dominated the final products. During microbial Fe(III) reduction Ce was not released to solution, suggesting Ce remained associated with the Fe minerals during redox cycling, even at high Ce loadings. In addition, Fe L2,3 X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) analyses suggested that Ce partially incorporated into the Fe(III) crystallographic sites in the magnetite. The use of Ce-bearing biomagnetite prepared in this study was tested for hydrogen fuel cell catalyst applications. Platinum/carbon black electrodes were fabricated, containing 10% biomagnetite with 0.2 mol% Ce in the catalyst. The addition of bioreduced Ce-magnetite improved the electrode durability when compared to a normal Pt/CB catalyst. Conclusion: Different concentrations of Ce can inhibit the bioreduction of Fe(III) minerals, resulting in the formation of different bioreduction products. Bioprocessing of Fe-minerals to form Ce-containing magnetite (potentially from waste sources) offers a sustainable route to the production of fuel cell catalysts with improved performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fiber‐reinforced composites (NFRCs) suffer from water absorption and low temperature stability, resulting in fiber degradation and subsequent material failure. Built‐in piezoresistive sensors are investigated to monitor the deformation/strain of the component. As a low‐cost material from renewable resources biochar particles derived from olive stones were applied on flax plies and yarn bundles that served as model systems. Carbon black samples as petrochemical variants were used as a reference material. Biochar and carbon black‐covered fiber systems were laminated in epoxy resin followed by tensile tests. The electrical resistance was recorded simultaneously during testing. Biochar with a broad size distribution from nano to high micrometer range (D < 200 μm) was superior in sensor performance compared to carbon black and biochar with a smaller particle size range D < 20 μm. Gauge factors (GF) of NFRC samples with integrated biochar particles reached 30–80 while carbon black could not exceed a GF of 8. To obtain maximum GFs, yarn count of flax yarn/ply substrate should be as thin as possible, but still enable percolation of the adhering particle network. Comparatively large particle size was identified as a contributing factor enabling the high GF for coarse biochar compared to carbon black. Highlights: A nonfossil biochar built‐in piezoresistive sensor in natural fiber‐reinforced composites was fabricatedDeposing biochar directly on flax fibers facilitates processingThe biochar piezoresistive sensor exhibits superior sensitivity compared to carbon black [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticle (NP)‐filled natural rubber (NR) has attracted much attention owing to their prominent mechanical strength, stiffness, and wear resistance. In this study, the static and dynamic mechanical properties of carbon black (CB)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) hybrid filled NR nanocomposites are investigated using coarse‐grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) simulations. The non‐bonded coarse‐grained force fields for the CB/CNTs hybrid filled NR nanocomposites are constructed by combining several methods (i.e., effective force coarse‐graining, iterative Boltzmann inversion, and energy matching methods). The uniaxial tensile results indicate that the gradual replacement of CB by the same weight percentage of CNTs significantly improves the mechanical performances of the nanocomposites and increases the heterogeneity of the stress and strain distributions in the nanocomposites, which can be ascribed to the high mechanical strength of CNTs and the formation of the rigid interface networks between CNTs and the NR matrix due to the wrapping behavior of NR molecular chains on the surface of CNTs. Furthermore, the dynamic shear results demonstrate that the introduction of NPs significantly enhances the Payne effect of the nanocomposites, and the higher the CNT loading in hybrid NPs, the stronger the Payne effect. It is also found that the breakup of NP networks plays a dominant role for the Payne effect of filled rubber as compared to the interfacial separation between NPs and the rubber matrix. The present multiscale computational framework can be further extended to other polymer nanocomposites, and sheds new light on the design and exploration of polymer nanocomposites through bottom‐up prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-carbon conversion of hydrocarbon fuels and feedstocks, as well as the macroscopic production of H 2 , are central focus in the advancement of high-value and efficient conversion of CH 4. The effects of Ar addition ratio, discharge power and temperature on the results of plasma methane cracking were investigated on a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma experimental system. The results show that the addition of Ar can improve the methane conversion, and the optimal ratio of CH 4 conversion to H 2 production after the effect is CH 4 : Ar = 1:1, at which the methane conversion reaches 49.62% and the H 2 selectivity reaches 52.66%. The plasma at 25 °C can make the methane conversion close to the effect of catalytic cracking at 600 °C, while the H 2 selectivity is lower, the H 2 generation is 32.59% lower than the latter, and the products have more C 2 –C 4 hydrocarbon impurities. The solid byproduct resulting from the DBD plasma cracking of methane primarily consisted of carbon black, possessing an average particle size of 62.21 nm. The incorporation of Ar and the amplification of power augment the CH* radical intensities, which suggests both conditions contribute positively to the dissociation of the CH 4 molecule. [Display omitted] • The optimal ratio of CH 4 to Ar stands at 1:1. • Plasma operating at 25 °C can mimic the catalytic thermal cracking effect at 600 °C. • The generation of the solid-phase product, carbon black is induced by the plasma. • An increase in the C 2 –C 4 product is observed under plasma activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The additive manufacturing of components using material extrusion (MEX) enables the integration of several materials into one component, including functional structures such as electrically conductive structures. This study investigated the influence of the selected additive MEX process on the resistivity of MEX structures. Specimens were produced from filaments and granules of an electrically conductive PLA and filled with carbon nanotubes and carbon black. Specimens were produced with a full-factorial variation of the input variables: extrusion temperature, deposition speed, and production process. The resistivity of the specimens was determined by four-wire measurement. Analysis of the obtained data showed that only the extrusion temperature had a significant influence on the resistivity of the MEX specimens. Furthermore, the impact of the nozzle diameter was evaluated by comparing the results of this study with those of a previous study, with an otherwise equal experimental setup. The nozzle diameter had a significant influence on resistivity and a larger nozzle diameter reduced the mean variance by an order of magnitude. The resistivity was lower for most process parameter sets. As the manufacturing process had no significant influence on the resistivity of MEX structures, it can be selected based on other criteria, e.g., the cost of feedstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epoxy foam material filled with an absorbing agent effectively absorbs electromagnetic waves. In this study, epoxy resin was used as the matrix, and acetylene carbon black was used as the magnetic absorbing agent to prepare an absorbing foam material (epoxy/CB). The microstructure of acetylene carbon black (CB) and its distribution in epoxy resin, as well as the effects of pre-polymerization time and CB content on the foam structure, were systematically characterized. Additionally, two dispersion methods, the hot-melt in situ stirring dispersion method and the three-roll milling dispersion method, were studied for their effects on the foaming process and absorbing properties of epoxy/CB. The results showed that with the prolongation of pre-polymerization time, the pore size decreased from 1.02 mm to 0.4 mm, leading to a more uniform pore distribution. Compared to the hot-melt in situ stirring dispersion method, the three-roll milling dispersion method effectively improved the dispersion of CB in epoxy resin, reducing the aggregate size from 300–400 nm to 70–80 nm. The pore diameter also decreased from 0.453 mm to 0.311 mm, improving the uniformity of particle size distribution. However, the absorbing material prepared with the three-roll milling dispersion method exhibited unsatisfactory absorption performance, with values close to 0 dB at mid-low frequencies and around −1 dB at high frequencies. In contrast, the absorbing material prepared with the hot-melt in situ stirring dispersion method showed better absorption performance at high frequencies, reaching around −9 dB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]