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Gram-positive bacterial infections are among the most serious diseases related with high mortality rates and huge healthcare costs especially with the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains that limits treatment options. Thus, development of new antibiotics combating these multi-drug resistant bacteria is crucial. Oxazolidinone antibiotics are the only totally synthetic group of antibiotics that showed activity against multi-drug resistant Gram positive bacteria including MRSA because of their unique mechanism of action in targeting protein synthesis. This group include approved marketed members (tedizolid, linezolid and contezolid) or those under development (delpazlolid, radezolid and sutezolid). Due to the significant impact of this class, larger number of analytical methods were required to meet the needs of both clinical and industrial studies. Analyzing these drugs either alone or with other antimicrobial agents commonly used in ICU, in the presence of pharmaceutical or endogenous biological interferences, or in the presence of matrix impurities as metabolites and degradation products poses a big analytical challenge. This review highlights current analytical approaches published in the last decade (2012–2022) that dealt with the determination of these drugs in different matrices and discusses their advantages and disadvantages. Various techniques have been described for their determination including chromatographic, spectroscopic, capillary electrophoretic and electroanalytical methods. The review comprises six sections (one for each drug) with their related tables that depict critical figures of merit and some experimental conditions for the reviewed methods. Furthermore, future perspectives about the analytical methodologies that can be developed in the near future for determination of these drugs are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroquinone is one of the phenolic compounds which is broadly utilized in industries as a raw material for processing. The presence of HQ in the wastewater can cause harmful effects on humans as well as aquatic life. There are enormous analytical methods that have been developed to detect the presence of hydroquinone even at trace levels, but among them, one of the trending methods is electrochemical, which is not only easy to operate but also gives very sensitive and selective results. In the current study, using a microwave-assisted technique, polypyrrole graphene-based nanocomposites were synthesized and then modified on a glassy carbon electrode to serve as a highly efficient replacement for the highly sensitive and selective hydroquinone (HQ) detection in real water samples. Several characterization methods, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy, were used to examine the produced nanocomposite. These techniques revealed the presence of nanosheet-like morphologies in sensing nanomaterials. Meanwhile, the cyclic voltammetric method was used to investigate the electrochemical behavior of the surface-modified glassy carbon electrode and set a linear concentration from 0.06 to 1.4 mM for sensing HQ under optimized conditions. The modified method showed a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 0.04 and 0.13 mM, respectively. Moreover, the present research has developed a reliable, sensitive, and fast method for the electrochemical detection of HQ in real water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beryllium metal is used as neutron moderator and reflector or multiplier in certain types of fission or fusion reactors. Dismantling of these reactors will produce radioactive beryllium waste, classified as low- or intermediate-level waste, that will need to be stabilised and solidified before being sent to disposal. The cementation process is under consideration because it may offer a good compromise between simplicity of implementation, cost, and quality of the final cemented wasteform. Nevertheless, knowledge of the corrosion behaviour of Be metal in a cement-based matrix is still limited, partly due to the high toxicity of Be that complicates testing. This study thus investigates Be corrosion in cement suspensions using potentiometry, voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Among the five different investigated systems (Portland cement blended without or with 40 wt.% silica fume, calcium sulfoaluminate clinker blended without or with 15% anhydrite, and calcium aluminate cement), Portland cement blended with 40% silica fume and calcium sulfoaluminate cement comprising 15% anhydrite are the most effective in mitigating beryllium corrosion. They allow reduction in the corrosion current by factors of 4 and 50, respectively, as compared to Portland cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of hydrogen (H2) and multi-carbon fuels through water electrolysis (oxygen evolution reaction (OER)/hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)) and water–CO2 co-electrolysis (OER/CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR)), respectively, is supposed to be the emergent energy carrier. These electrochemical processes are essential chemical conversion pathways that initiate the changes toward production of renewable energy. This review summarizes the systematic design of earth-abundant transition metal-based nanomaterials and their electrocatalytic activities toward electrochemical energy conversion reactions such as OER, HER, and CO2RR. The primary focus is on fabricating highly effective, low-cost, and advanced transition metal-based nanostructures for both the OER/HER and OER/CO2RR systems. Developing synthetic strategies for surface morphology-controlled nanostructured electrocatalysts, engineering the electrode surface, enhancing the electrocatalytic activity, understanding the relationship between intrinsic catalytic activity and preparation approaches or precursor choices, and exploring the reaction mechanism are focused on. Furthermore, the current challenges, figure-of-merit, and prospects of transition metal-based nanomaterials and their electrocatalytic activities toward water electrolysis and water–CO2 co-electrolysis are described. This study may open new opportunities to develop shape-controlled and high-performance electrocatalysts for electrochemical energy conversion and storage reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosulfan is an organochlorine pesticide widely used in agriculture to protect crops such as cotton, soybeans, coffee, tea, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and grains from pests. However, exposure to low concentrations of endosulfan causes harmful effects on humans' health. Therefore, the determination of endosulfan in food samples by a fast, simple, and cost-effective method is pivotal. In this study, an electrochemical sensor based on a polyaniline/Fe-ZnO-modified glassy carbon electrode (PANI/Fe-ZnO/GCE) was developed for the determination of endosulfan in vegetables. The synthesized nanomaterials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). PANI/Fe-ZnO/GCE showed remarkable electrocatalytic activity for the determination of endosulfan in vegetables. It also exhibited a good linear response to endosulfan concentrations ranging from 1 to 400 µM. The method displayed a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.003 µM. The sensor showed good selectivity, long-term stability, good repeatability, and within-lab reproducibility. It was also applied for the determination of endosulfan in tomatoes and potatoes, with acceptable recoveries ranging from 87.00 to 96.80%. Graphical illustration of PANI/Fe-ZnO modified glassy carbon electrode for endosulfan determination in vegetables [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly increasing human population has led to new biological and environmental challenges. These challenges, in turn, have contributed to the rapid growth of the pharmaceutical sector. Quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery necessitates portable, sensitive, precise, and cost-effective devices to monitor patient dosing and assess pharmaceutical hazards. This study highlights the attributes and applications of the current nanomaterial-based sensors for drug detection, emphasizing the potential of these devices to advance the detection of bioactive molecules, thereby promoting human health and environmental protection on a large scale. Electrochemical sensors, in particular, have become invaluable in bioimaging, electrochemical analysis, and drug delivery due to their high specificity, selectivity, and stability across cycles. This review focuses on recent advancements in electrochemical devices for healthcare applications, detailing their production, analytical performance, and clinical uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review examines recent technological developments for recovering critical metals from mining and metallurgical waste streams, focusing on Co, Ga, Ge, In, Li, Ni, Re, Te, Sn, W, and V. Novel approaches using electrochemical methods, membranes, solvent extraction, and biomining are critically evaluated for their effectiveness and potential for industrial adoption. Key competitive advantages of these technologies are discussed, along with aspects requiring further research, such as process control, fouling issues, and microbial stability. The exploration of integrated and hybrid solutions combining different technologies is a potential game-changer for technology transfer. Finally, while these novel approaches show promise, further research is needed to overcome challenges related to cost, process control, and scalability. Addressing these issues is crucial for successfully transitioning these technologies from laboratory-scale experiments to industrial applications. By overcoming these hurdles, the mining and metallurgy sector can play a vital role in supplying critical metals for the zero-carbon transition while reducing its environmental impact and advancing toward a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to systematically analyze the influence of potential and the Co(II)–Ru(III) molar ratio on the electrochemical behavior of the Co–Ru system during codeposition from acidic chloride electrolytes. The equilibrium speciation of the baths was investigated spectrophotometrically and compared with theoretical calculations based on the stability constants of Co(II) and Ru(III) complexes. The codeposition of the metals was characterized using electroanalytical methods, including cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and anodic stripping linear voltammetry. The alloys obtained at different potentials were analyzed for their elemental composition (EDS, mapping), phase composition (XRD), and surface morphology (SEM). The morphology and composition of the alloys were mainly dependent on the deposition potential, which controlled the cobalt incorporation. Ruthenium–rich alloys were produced at potentials of −0.6 V and −0.7 V (vs. SCE). In these conditions, cobalt anomalously codeposited due to the formation of the CoOH+ intermediate, triggered by the intense hydrogen evolution on the ruthenium sublayer. Bulk cobalt electrodeposition began at a potential of around −0.8 V, resulting in the formation of cobalt-rich alloys. The early stages of the electrodeposition were investigated using different nucleation models. A transition from 2D progressive nucleation to 3D instantaneous nucleation at around −0.8 V was identified as being caused by cobalt incorporation. This was well correlated with electroanalytical data, partial polarization curves of alloy deposition, elemental mapping analysis, and the structure of the deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corrosion of pre-passivated Cr10Mo1 steels in simulated concrete pore solution of saturated Ca(OH)2 induced by different corrosive ions were investigated, namely Cl−, SO2- 4, and combination of Cl− and SO2- 4. Electrochemical methods, Pourbaix analysis of Fe–Cr–H2O system and DFT calculation were adopted to characterize corrosion behavior and reveal underlying mechanism. Results showed that while sulfate may induce corrosion at higher threshold value, the scenario of chloride alone leads to lowest corrosion potential, linear polarization resistance and highest corrosion rate, and the presence of SO2- 4 ions mitigate corrosion risk under the coexistence condition of chloride and sulfate. A two-step reaction model of competitive adsorption-catalytic corrosion was proposed based on theoretical analysis and DFT calculation results.

Among surface fabrication methods, electrodeposition is considered the most advantageous because it can be performed using a low-cost fabrication process and generate robust chemical and mechanical Nano films within a short time. This study demonstrates the innovative development and exact optimization of an advanced electrochemical sensor platform designed for the highly sensitive detection and quantification of Phenol present in industrial wastewaters. The sensor's construction entails the meticulous electrodeposition of Nanofilms comprising carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and Bathocuproine disulfonic acid disodium salt onto a pencil graphite electrode, complemented by the integration of highly efficacious surface modifiers such as carboxymethyl cellulose and Bathocuproine. To unravel the morphology of the fabricated sensor film's nanostructures, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was employed, affirming the successful electrodeposition. The proposed sensor showed exceptional catalytic activity in the electrooxidation of Phenol, characterized by an impressive α value of 0.93, a substantially high logarithm of Ks of 2.93, and a commendable Γ value of 1.16 × 10–8. A wide standard calibration curve covering a concentration range of 25–225 nmol l−1 was implemented, thus enabling precise and accurate quantification of Phenol. Impressively, the sensor exhibited remarkable sensitivity, evident through its remarkably low limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), measuring at 8.31 and 24.97 nmol l−1, respectively. With its exceptional performance, minimal environmental impact, and unparalleled accuracy, this electrochemical sensor exhibited immense potential in the meticulous analysis of Phenol encountered in petrol and resin factory wastewaters. By embracing this state-of-the-art technology in analytical applications, researchers can effectively monitor and develop robust mitigation strategies aimed at combating Phenol contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystalluria, characterized by the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, is a common urinary disorder. While increasing urinary volume is a traditional approach to manage this condition, novel therapeutic strategies are being explored. Lemon juice (LJ), rich in citric acid, is of particular interest due to its calcium ion chelating properties. This study evaluated the in vitro potential of LJ to inhibit calcium oxalate crystal formation. Using specialized electrodes (CPE-GC) and various electrochemical techniques (SWV, CV, LV, EIS), we characterized the interactions between LJ and calcium ions. Our findings, obtained from a simplified model using calcium carbonate, demonstrate the ability of LJ to effectively complex calcium ions, thereby reducing their availability for crystal formation. Although these results are promising, it's important to note that the experimental conditions do not fully replicate the complexity of physiological urine. In vivo studies are therefore necessary to confirm the efficacy of LJ in a clinical setting. In conclusion, lemon juice appears to be a promising approach for preventing calcium oxalate crystal formation. Its mechanism of action, based on calcium ion chelation, offers an alternative to conventional treatments. However, further research is required to evaluate its clinical efficacy and optimize its usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wine′s phenolic compounds present a group of hundreds of chemical compounds, contributing to the wine taste, color, and stability during the ageing. These compounds include phenolic acids, flavonols, anthocyanins, catechins, proanthocyanidins etc. They are very important because they offer numerous good benefits for human body. Electrochemical methods show a valuable technique for the determination of redox compounds in wine. In this review, a lot of attention is paid to carbon‐based electrodes and to the voltammetric signals obtained in red and white wines using different modifiers for the electrode surface with nanoparticles and natural compounds used in the construction of biosensors. These electrodes are widely used due to their non‐toxic properties, wide potential ranges, high conductivity and the possibility of use in aqueous and non‐aqueous solutions. Different carbon electrodes are considered and briefly discussed. This review explores the current advancements in the electrochemical determination of most important polyphenolic compounds in wine using carbon electrodes. Also, this review gives a clear view about the oxidation peaks of various phenolic compounds in wine. It encompasses ‐the in‐depth analysis of the different types of carbon electrodes used, such as glassy carbon, carbon paste, carbon nanotubes, screen‐printed,graphene‐based electrodes, biosensors and their respective benefits in polyphenolic compounds analysis. In conclusion, the electrochemical determination of polyphenolic compounds in wine using carbon electrodes offers a promising route for accurate and reliable analysis, with important implications for the wine industry and research. This review provides comprehensive information for researchers, winemakers and analytical chemists seeking to understand and apply these techniques for improving wine quality and advancing knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine] liposomes (pMPC liposomes) gained attention during the last few years because of their potential use in treating osteoarthritis. pMPC liposomes that serve as boundary lubricants are intended to restore the natural lubrication properties of articular cartilage. For this purpose, it is important that the liposomes remain intact and do not fuse and spread as a lipid film on the cartilage surface. Here, we investigate the stability of the liposomes and their interaction with two types of solid surfaces, gold and carbon, by using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). With the aid of a hydrophilic species used as an electroactive probe in the solution, the charge transfer characteristics of the electrode surfaces are obtained. Additionally, from EIS, the capacitance characteristics of the surfaces are derived. No decrease of the peak currents and no displacement of the peak potentials to greater overpotentials are observed in the CV experiments. No decrease in the apparent capacitance and increase in the charge transfer resistance is observed in the EIS experiments. On the contrary, all parameters in both CV and EIS do change in the opposite direction. The obtained results confirm that there is only physical adsorption without fusion and spreading of the pMPC liposomes and without the formation of lipid films on the surfaces of both gold and carbon electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibitory impact of the methanolic Ajuga orientalis (MAO) extract on Al corrosion in 1.0 M NaOH solution was examined using weight loss with electrochemical polarisation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. According to the findings, the extract was an effective inhibitor in basic condition, as well as inhibition effectiveness increased with concentration. Furthermore, temperature studies revealed a loss in efficiency followed by a rise when temperature rose, followed by an increase and a fall in the fundamental media when the temperature increased from 30 °C to 50 °C. Frumkin, Freundlich and El Awady isotherms were used to mimic the inhibitor's adsorption properties. For the inhibitory behaviour, physical and chemical adsorption mechanisms are proposed. The adsorption process's thermodynamic parameters (ΔH*, ΔS* and Ea) were determined and explained. The inhibitor was examined as a mixed-type (anodic and cathodic) inhibitor based on polarisation studies. The inhibitor, according to the SEM data, is partially coating the metal surface, providing it with a reasonable amount of protection. The findings from weight loss, electrochemical polarisation, SEM and quantum chemical calculations collectively demonstrate a strong consensus, indicating that the MAO extract exhibits high effectiveness as an inhibitor for aluminium in a basic solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet global demand, pesticides play a very important role in the control of pests that damage agricultural products. However, overuse of pesticides threatens both ecosystems and human health. In recent years, gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), capillary chromatography (CCH), and capillary electrophoresis (CE) have been used to determination of pesticides. Although these methods have high specificity, selectivity and sensitivity for detection of pesticides, they also have some shortcomings, for example, expensive instrument, sample prepared process is complex and time-consuming. Therefore, electrochemical sensors and biosensor have become good analytical methods for the detection of pesticides due to their many advantages such as simple manufacturing process of the detection system, high sensitivity and selectivity. In this paper describes the latest results used for in situ detection of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables obtained in the fields of cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. In addition, the development of electrochemical methods and real-time smartphone monitoring techniques and their integration with detection platforms are discussed. For readers with a scientific and technological focus, this article will provide additional valuable information for understanding the creation of portable electrochemical devices, rapid detection of pesticides, the role of electrochemical sensitive methods and contributing to their further development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was a systematic analysis of the influence of anions (chloride and sulfate) on the electrochemical behavior of the Co-Sn system during codeposition from gluconate baths. The pH-dependent multiple equilibria in cobalt–tin baths were calculated using stability constants. The codeposition of the metals was characterized thermodynamically considering the formation of various CoxSny intermetallic phases. The alloys obtained at different potentials were characterized in terms of their elemental (EDS and anodic stripping) and phase compositions (XRD), the development of preferred orientation planes (texture coefficients), surface morphology (SEM), and wettability (water; diiodomethane; surface energy). The mass of the deposits and cathodic current efficiencies were strongly dependent on both the deposition potential and the bath composition. The morphology and composition of the alloys were mainly dependent on the deposition potential, while the effect of the anions was less emphasized. Two-phase alloys were produced at potentials −0.9 V (Ag/AgCl) and lower, and they consisted of a mixture of tetragonal tin and an uncommon tetragonal CoSn phase. The preferential orientation planes of tin grains were dependent on the cobalt incorporation into the deposits and anion type in the bath, while the latter did not affect the preferential orientation plane of the CoSn phase. The surface wettability of the alloys displayed hydrophobicity and oleophilicity originating from the hierarchical porous surface topography rather than the elemental or phase composition. The codeposition of the metals occurs within the progressive nucleation model, but at more electronegative potentials and in the presence of sulfate ions, a transition from progressive to instantaneous nucleation can be possible. This correlated well with the partial polarization curves of the alloy deposition and the texture of the tin phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alumina solubility in KF-NaF-AlF3 melt was estimated using square wave voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry methods. A 45° inclined and horizontal electrode were used in square wave voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry, respectively. The electrolyte used in this study had a cryolite ratio (CR) of 1.3 and a potassium ratio (KR) of 0.3 at 800 °C. Voltammograms were recorded on both electrodes at different alumina concentrations in the melt. Based on these studies, the alumina solubility in the studied melt is 3.879 wt%, which agrees with the literature.

The anti-corrosive effect of the extract in ethanol of Justicia brandegeeana (Acanthaceae) against carbon steel AISI 1020 in sulfuric acid medium 1 mol L−1 was investigated. In addition to the effect of seasonality, several techniques were used to investigate the anti-corrosive activity, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization (PP), linear polarization resistance (LPR), and weight loss. The chelating effect was analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and the surface was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the inhibition efficiency is dependent on the concentration of the extract, reaching its maximum at 1500 ppm and despite having good thermal stability (82.41% inhibition at 70°C), it decreases with increasing temperature, indicating a physisorption behavior. The extract obeyed the Langmuir isotherm and the Tafel curves characterized it as a mixed inhibitor, with a tendency to cathodic region. It also presented a 52% chelating effect against Fe+2 ions, and the SEM analysis indicated a protection with the presence of plant extract, thus minimizing surface roughness. These results indicated the J. brangeeana ethanol extract as a green anti-corrosive agent.

The production of hydrogen (H2) and multi-carbon fuels through water electrolysis (oxygen evolution reaction (OER)/hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)) and water–CO2 co-electrolysis (OER/CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR)), respectively, is supposed to be the emergent energy carrier. These electrochemical processes are essential chemical conversion pathways that initiate the changes toward production of renewable energy. This review summarizes the systematic design of earth-abundant transition metal-based nanomaterials and their electrocatalytic activities toward electrochemical energy conversion reactions such as OER, HER, and CO2RR. The primary focus is on fabricating highly effective, low-cost, and advanced transition metal-based nanostructures for both the OER/HER and OER/CO2RR systems. Developing synthetic strategies for surface morphology-controlled nanostructured electrocatalysts, engineering the electrode surface, enhancing the electrocatalytic activity, understanding the relationship between intrinsic catalytic activity and preparation approaches or precursor choices, and exploring the reaction mechanism are focused on. Furthermore, the current challenges, figure-of-merit, and prospects of transition metal-based nanomaterials and their electrocatalytic activities toward water electrolysis and water–CO2 co-electrolysis are described. This study may open new opportunities to develop shape-controlled and high-performance electrocatalysts for electrochemical energy conversion and storage reactions.

The corrosion susceptibility of S235 steel samples in 1 M HCl solution, with and without addition of 2-amino-6-methylbenzothiazole (AMBT) was evaluated using weight loss (WL), chronopotentiometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization (PD) techniques. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of AMBT was investigated at 298 to 318 K, with and without addition of 0.5 wt.% KI. The highest corrosion inhibition efficiency (i.e. 83.30%) was achieved upon addition of 5 mM AMBT. PD curve measurements after 24 h immersion revealed that AMBT behaves as a mixed-type inhibitor, predominantly affecting the cathodic corrosion reaction. Thermodynamic calculations showed that AMBT adheres to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) was used to confirm the adsorption of AMBT, while its influence on the morphology of the S235 steel samples was also investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, along with Monte Carlo (MC) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, were employed to investigate AMBT’s corrosion inhibition behaviour at the molecular level. The simulations confirmed that AMBT strongly adsorbs on the Fe(110) surface through a combination of physisorption and chemisorption mechanisms. This study offers detailed insights into AMBT’s effectiveness as a corrosion inhibitor.

The quality of oil is highly dependent on its free fatty acid (FFA) content, especially due to increased restrictions on renewable fuels. As a result, there has been a growing interest in free fatty acid determination methods over the last few decades. While various standard methods are currently available, such as the American Oil Chemists Society (AOCS), International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), and Japan Oil Chemists' Society (JOCS), to obtain accurate results, there is a pressing need to investigate a fast, accurate, feasible, and eco-friendly methodology for determining FFA in biological materials. This is owing to inadequate characteristics of the methods, such as solvent consumption and reproducibility, among others. This study aims to investigate FFA determination methods to identify suitable approaches and introduce a fresh perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental issues have received considerable attention in recent years, and the use of green corrosion inhibitors has become the main topic of most researchers. The current study was focused on evaluating the essential oil from aerial parts of the Ruta Graveolens L. (RG-(EO)) has been used as an eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor on Mild Steel (MS) at 1 M HCl solution. The characterization method (i.e., gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS)) identified 21 constituents representing 95.3% of the total amount and undecan-2-one (U2ONE) has been identified as the main constituent of RG-(EO). The inhibiting effect of RG-(EO) on the corrosion of MS in 1 M HCl solution was tested by the measurements of Weight loss (WL), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) as well as quantum chemical calculation methods. The PDP test findings showed that the effectiveness of MS inhibition increased with the addition of the RG-(EO), reaching almost 94.80% at 2.00 g/L. The thermodynamic analysis showed that the inhibition efficiency increases slightly with an increase in the temperature of the medium (308-343 K). Moreover, the thermodynamic kinetic parameters showed that the adsorption of RG-(EO) on MS surface sites is subject to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Finally, the theoretical studies based on quantum chemical analysis (i.e. density functional theory (DFT)) and Monte Carlo (MC) simulation were also performed for understanding the adsorption mechanism of U2ONE onto Fe-surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. It represents a public health problem that must be addressed through the early detection of specific biomarkers and effective treatment. To address this critical issue, it is imperative to implement effective methodologies for specific biomarker detection of lung cancer in real clinical samples. Electrochemical methods, including microfluidic devices and biosensors, can obtain robust results that reduce time, cost, and assay complexity. This comprehensive review will explore specific studies, methodologies, and detection limits and contribute to the depth of the discussion, making it a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians interested in lung cancer diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the abundance of agrochemicals, feces, urine, and landfill leachates, nitrates ( NO 3 - ) are one of the most prevalent forms of inorganic pollutants in water bodies and groundwater. In this work, EC treatment was carried out in continuous flow with a Mg/Zn system for the treatment of a drinking water well near a landfill. The maximum efficiency of 93.15% was achieved at optimal operating conditions: current intensity of 0.6 A, flow of 2.9 mL/min and TRH of 86.81 min. In addition, 73% of silica was removed (from 65.05 to 17.76 mg/L), which interacts with magnesium and calcium to form silicates of both elements. EC is an efficient treatment technology with an operating cost of 2.65 US$/m3. In addition, Si causes interference in the EC system by prioritizing reactions with calcium and magnesium, and 72.69% Si was removed by EC. Finally, the inorganic ions were also significantly removed: 100% phosphates, 82.37% sulfates, 47% total hardness, and 42.28% chlorides. Conclusively, EC improved the water quality and thus minimized the health effects of consumers, and the drinking water studied in this work was used for the hydration of 212,500 L per day of milk formula for infant consumption and older adults. Highlights: Mg/Zn electrocoagulation was used for the treatment of drinking water polluted with nitrates. The maximum efficiency of 93.15% was achieved at 0.6 A, flow of 2.9 mL/min and TRH of 86.81 min. In addition, 73% of silica was removed from 65.05 to 17.76 mg/ L. EC is an efficient treatment technology with an operating cost of 2.65 US$/m3 EC improved the water quality minimizing the health effects of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, a novel electrochemical biosensor was fabricated based on modification of a rotating glassy carbon electrode with multi-walled carbon nanotubes-ionic liquid, and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in which renin (Rn), and aliskiren (AK) were used as templates. By immersion the biosensor in Rn, AK, and their binary system (AK-Rn) solutions, the species (Rn, AK, and AK-Rn) were entrapped within the pathways of the MIPs. These processes and investigation of the inhibition of the Rn by AK helped us to obtain higher electrochemical signals for a good monitorization of the system. The effects of experimental parameters on response of the biosensor to AK were optimized by a small central composite design to obtain the highest response. Hydrodynamic cyclic voltametric (HCV), hydrodynamic differential pulse voltammetric (HDPV), and hydrodynamic linear sweep voltammetric (HLSV) data obtained and recorded in order to be analyzed by classical methods and multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) as an advanced chemometric method. The results of molecular dockings, classical and chemometric analyses confirmed that the Rn was strongly inhibited by the AK which was good evidence to develop a novel biosensing system for determination of Rn. A novel biosensor was developed for determination of the Rn which had an acceptable performance in determination of Rn in the range of 0–9 fM. This approach opened a new way for investigation of enzymes' inhibition, and developing a new generation of electrochemical biosensors for medical and biomedical applications.

Owing to the environmental and energy problems nowadays, one of the enormous challenges is expanding clean, renewable energy to reduce the destructive ecological effects of chemical industries. Compared with other traditional processes, the electrochemical method has some benefits, such as being selective, causing minor waste, and working under mild conditions with no external oxidizing or reducing reagents, making this approach more economical and eco-friendly. Electrochemistry represents a powerful tool within synthetic organic chemistry. The development part of chemistry intends the performance of organic reactions employing electrons, including adding or removing electrons. Using electric current as a reagent has some advantages, such as simplicity of reactions, accessibility of materials, replacing toxic oxidizing or reducing reagents, and applying an eco-friendly environment. During the last decades, there has been much effort to decrease the usage of fossil fuels, and electricity has emerged as a common energy source. The conversion of electricity energy into chemical energy leads to new synthetic paths, and this energy is naturally safe and environmentally friendly. Developing electrochemistry approaches for performing high-performance organic reactions is essential for chemical industries. The electrochemical reaction is a green strategy because of the utilization of electric current instead of stoichiometric oxidants or reductants. Due to its helpful and environmentally friendly ability to produce reactive intermediates, organic electrochemistry has advanced considerably in oxidative hydrogen evolution coupling and sacrificial anode electroreduction. New developments in organic electrochemistry focus on developing new electrolytic catalysts,photoelectrocatalysis, bioelectrosynthesis, optimizing electrode materials, paired electrolysis, and artificial intelligence-assisted electrosynthesis. Thus, organic electrochemistry is expanding daily because of the significant number of construction projects and the possibilities of applying organic electrochemistry. Electrochemical methods for constructing organic compounds have tolerated renewal for the past decades. Organic electrochemistry has a wealthy background in organic synthesis. We hope this review helps to attract more attention to organic electrochemistry from researchers by using electrochemical processes in the laboratory and the industrial centers, which decrease pollution and create an eco-friendly. In this review, the electrochemical coupling reaction of organohalides for synthesizing various coupling products has been summarized and discussed since 2000.

The rapidly increasing human population has led to new biological and environmental challenges. These challenges, in turn, have contributed to the rapid growth of the pharmaceutical sector. Quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery necessitates portable, sensitive, precise, and cost-effective devices to monitor patient dosing and assess pharmaceutical hazards. This study highlights the attributes and applications of the current nanomaterial-based sensors for drug detection, emphasizing the potential of these devices to advance the detection of bioactive molecules, thereby promoting human health and environmental protection on a large scale. Electrochemical sensors, in particular, have become invaluable in bioimaging, electrochemical analysis, and drug delivery due to their high specificity, selectivity, and stability across cycles. This review focuses on recent advancements in electrochemical devices for healthcare applications, detailing their production, analytical performance, and clinical uses.

The paper presents the basic concepts and the peculiarities of teaching electrochemistry on the example of St. Petersburg University. We discuss the main courses in electrochemistry and the role of theory and laboratory practice in the education of BSc and MSc students in Chemistry or Materials Science, including those, who will specialize in electrochemistry. The tight integration of basic lecture courses with seminars and experimental laboratory works is considered as the key element of electrochemistry education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXene material has the advantages of flexible composition and high capacitance, which has attracted much attention in the field of supercapacitor energy storage. Tn this work, the poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythio-phene)/MXene (PEDOT/MXene) composite electrode material were synthesized via electrochemical method. Experimental results indicate that the specific capacitance of PEDOT/MXene reaches 250.21 mF/cmJ at a scan rate of 30 m V/s. With the current density increasing from 0.1 mA/cmJ to 5 m A/cmJ, the specific capacitance retention of PEDOT/MXene achieves 83.5%, was much better than PEDOT (64.1%). Additionally, the initial specific capacitance of PEDOT/MXene still remains 84% over 1000 cycles at a scan rate of 1000 mV/s by CV method, exhibiting good rate performance and cycle stability. This work provides a new approach to construct high-performance energy storage interface with MXene-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the potential corrosion inhibition mechanisms of alkanolammonium salts, exemplified by ethylethanolammonium 4-nitrobenzoate (EEA4NB), for carbon steel, utilizing experimental and theoretical methods. The interactions between metal and inhibitor, focusing on adsorption behavior in saline solutions, will be thoroughly investigated. Analysis of potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals that the inhibition efficiency (IE) increases with the rising concentration of EEA4NB, reaching 96% at 5 × 10−3 M. Negative adsorption free energy and a high adsorption equilibrium constant suggest the spontaneous formation of a protective inhibitor layer on the metal surface, effectively blocking reaction sites and reducing the corrosion rate, according to the Langmuir isotherms model. As confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, physical and chemical interactions contribute to the adsorption mechanisms. Quantum chemical calculations explore the relationship between EEA4NB molecular configuration and inhibition efficiencies. The study emphasizes the potential efficacy of alkanolammonium salts, exemplified by EEA4NB, as effective corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in aggressive environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to conventional methods of industrial production, the cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM or 3D printing) process creates new products through rapid prototyping technology based on a computer-aided design model. Regarding electrochemistry, numerous scientists have made use of AM to print electrodes and other conductive materials, to create electrochemical cells, laboratory experimental accessories, and to aid in teaching subject. To produce complicated structures for preparing individualized components of varying sizes, forms, compositions, and architectures. This mini-review article highlights the AM techniques, materials, and applications in electrochemistry fields such as electrodes, sensors, electrochemical cells, energy storage, experimental accessories, and STEM teaching aids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spinel-based coatings have been applied to limit interconnect degradation issues for the metallic interconnects in solid oxide fuel cells. This work provides the recent advances in spinel-based protective coatings produced by viable and effective electrochemical methods on metallic interconnects. Two-step calcination appears to be the usual way to densify spinel by electrophoretic deposition. The electroplating employs a simple approach to depositing dense alloy coatings by co-deposition of metals with similar potential. The electrophoretic deposition/electroplating method is expected to prepare more particle contents than composite electrodeposition. The polymetallic spinel is further designed to improve the high temperature oxidation performance as the prospective coating by EPD or electroplating method. • This study describes and compares 4 electrochemical methods from recent advances. • Electrochemical methods are effective for preparation of spinel protective coating. • EPD provides the best performance for the bimetallic spinel. • Polymetallic spinel shows the superior overall performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anti-corrosive effect of the extract in ethanol of Justicia brandegeeana (Acanthaceae) against carbon steel AISI 1020 in sulfuric acid medium 1 mol L−1 was investigated. In addition to the effect of seasonality, several techniques were used to investigate the anti-corrosive activity, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization (PP), linear polarization resistance (LPR), and weight loss. The chelating effect was analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and the surface was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the inhibition efficiency is dependent on the concentration of the extract, reaching its maximum at 1500 ppm and despite having good thermal stability (82.41% inhibition at 70°C), it decreases with increasing temperature, indicating a physisorption behavior. The extract obeyed the Langmuir isotherm and the Tafel curves characterized it as a mixed inhibitor, with a tendency to cathodic region. It also presented a 52% chelating effect against Fe+2 ions, and the SEM analysis indicated a protection with the presence of plant extract, thus minimizing surface roughness. These results indicated the J. brangeeana ethanol extract as a green anti-corrosive agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. It represents a public health problem that must be addressed through the early detection of specific biomarkers and effective treatment. To address this critical issue, it is imperative to implement effective methodologies for specific biomarker detection of lung cancer in real clinical samples. Electrochemical methods, including microfluidic devices and biosensors, can obtain robust results that reduce time, cost, and assay complexity. This comprehensive review will explore specific studies, methodologies, and detection limits and contribute to the depth of the discussion, making it a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians interested in lung cancer diagnosis.

Zinc sulfide/graphitic Carbon Nitride binary nanosheets were synthesized by using a novel sonochemical pathway with high electrocatalytic ability. The as- obtained samples were characterized by various analytical methods such as Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to evaluate the properties of ZnS@CNS synthesized by this new route. Subsequently, the electrical and electrochemical performance of the proposed electrodes were characterized by using EIS and CV to establish an electroactive ability of the nanocomposites. The complete properties like structural and physical of ZnS@CNS were analyzed. As-prepared binary nanocomposite was applied towards the detection of anticancer drug (flutamide) by various electrochemical methods such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and amperometry. The glassy carbon electrode modified with a ZnS@CNS composite demonstrates a remarkable electrocatalytic efficiency for detecting flutamide in a pH 7.0 (PBS). The composite modified electrode shows synergistic effect of ZnS and CNS catalyst. The electrochemical sensing performance of the linear range was improved significantly due to high electroactive sites and rapid electron transport pathways. Crucially, the electrochemical method was successfully demonstrated in biological fluids which reveals its potential real-time applicability in the analysis of drug.

Copper's potential in various applications is constrained due to environmental degradation, particularly in high-salinity environments, representing a sustainability concern. Herein, two novel hydroquinazolinones, namely 1-((4-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl)methyl)-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one (DQ-H) and 1-((4-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl)methyl)-2-(p-tolyl)-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one (DQ-CH3), were analyzed for their ability to inhibit copper corrosion in a 3.5 % NaCl solution. The compounds, characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, were evaluated via potentiodynamic polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and weight loss measurements. Comprehensive analyses utilizing scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared, and UV–vis spectroscopy have revealed insights into the surface morphology and the interactive nature of inhibitor molecules with the copper surface. Our findings highlight the formation of a strong, sustainable inhibitor film on the copper surface due to the addition of hydroquinazolinones, thereby exhibiting an enhanced polarization resistance and decreased double-layer capacitance. Both DQ-H and DQ-CH3 demonstrated a considerable inhibition effect, with efficiencies of 92 % and 94 % respectively, illustrating their potential for sustainable copper protection. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results indicated a significant increase in polarization resistance from 605.7 (blank) to 9403 and 12861 Ω cm2, after the addition of DQ-H and DQ-CH3, respectively. Furthermore, the adsorption attributes of the compounds on the Cu(111) surface were examined using first-principles density functional theory simulation, revealing several covalent bonds formation. Our work aims to contribute to sustainability efforts in materials science by offering a corrosion-protective solution that is less harmful to the environment and more efficient in preserving copper's durability, particularly in saline environments.

The novelty of the work is to scrutinize for the first time the 4R,5S- 2,4,5-tris(4-ethoxy­phenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazole (TEPI) as a corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel (C35E) in the acidic medium. The inhibitory properties of TEPI were assessed through various methods, including electrochemical, spectroscopic, and surface analysis, as well as quantum chemical calculations. The protective effect of C35E was seen to expand as the TEPI amount was extended but to diminish as temperature was augmented, fulfilling 98.3 % at 1 mM under 303 K. Certain thermodynamic and kinetic indices were estimated and explored. The TEPI complied with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm when it adsorbs on the C35E surface. TEPI behaviour was revealed by polarization trials to be of mixed type. The establishment of an adsorption-linked preventive TEPI layer on the C35E surface has been disclosed thanks to surface analysis. The outcomes of scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy clearly illustrate that TEPI can effi­ci­ently adsorb at the C35E interface, substantially reducing C35E steel corrosion. UV-visible analysis of the inhibited electrolyte clearly reveals the complexation of iron cations with TEPI molecules. The density functional theory, Monte Carlo and molecular dynamic simulation were adopted to check out the adsorption characteristics of the TEPI onto C35E surface. The laboratory outcomes have been proven by DFT and MDS.

Corrosion inhibitors are widely used as an important tool for the prevention and remediation of different materials exposed to corrosive industrial processes. Corrosion inhibitors are usually added to acid pickling solutions to reduce the deterioration of metallic materials and particularly, corrosion due to hydrochloric acid. In this work, three bis-Schiff bases (BS2, BS4 and BS8) were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods, and their anti-corrosive effects on AISI 1020 carbon steel in a hydrochloric acid solution were studied using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques and quantum chemical methods. The results showed that all substances act as potential corrosion inhibitors as BS8 exhibited the highest efficiency (98%) of all methods. The compounds adsorbed on the metal surface were as per the El-Awady adsorption isotherm. Morphological aspects of the metal were observed upon applying SEM, and the theoretical results acquired from the quantum chemical calculation for molecular properties and the Fe(110) surface adsorption proved to be compatible with the experimental results.

Poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine] liposomes (pMPC liposomes) gained attention during the last few years because of their potential use in treating osteoarthritis. pMPC liposomes that serve as boundary lubricants are intended to restore the natural lubrication properties of articular cartilage. For this purpose, it is important that the liposomes remain intact and do not fuse and spread as a lipid film on the cartilage surface. Here, we investigate the stability of the liposomes and their interaction with two types of solid surfaces, gold and carbon, by using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). With the aid of a hydrophilic species used as an electroactive probe in the solution, the charge transfer characteristics of the electrode surfaces are obtained. Additionally, from EIS, the capacitance characteristics of the surfaces are derived. No decrease of the peak currents and no displacement of the peak potentials to greater overpotentials are observed in the CV experiments. No decrease in the apparent capacitance and increase in the charge transfer resistance is observed in the EIS experiments. On the contrary, all parameters in both CV and EIS do change in the opposite direction. The obtained results confirm that there is only physical adsorption without fusion and spreading of the pMPC liposomes and without the formation of lipid films on the surfaces of both gold and carbon electrodes.

Tin determination allows for the monitoring of pollution and assessment of the impact of human activities on the environment. The determination of tin in the environment is crucial for the protection of human health and ecosystems, and for maintaining sustainability. Tin can be released into the environment from various sources, such as industry, transportation, and electronic waste. The concentration of tin in the environment can be determined by different analytical methods, depending on the form of tin present and the purpose of the analysis. The choice of an appropriate method depends on the type of sample, concentration levels, and the available instrumentation. In this paper, we have carried out a literature review of electrochemical methods for the determination of tin. Electrochemical methods of analysis such as polarography, voltammetry, and potentiometry can be used for the determination of tin in various environmental samples, as well as in metal alloys. The detection limits and linearity ranges obtained for the determination of tin by different electrochemical techniques are collected and presented. The influence of the choice of base electrolyte and working electrode on signals is also presented. Practical applications of the developed tin determination methods in analyzing real samples are also summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate Diplotaxis simplex (DS) extract as an eco‐friendly corrosion inhibitor in a harsh 1 M H2SO4 solution, focusing on its effectiveness against both general and localized concrete corrosion. Electrochemical methods, including linear polarization, were employed to assess the DS extract's corrosion inhibition capabilities. The results demonstrate DS extract's exceptional inhibitory properties, with inhibition efficiency increasing with higher concentrations. This enhanced performance is attributed to the extract's phenolic compounds, containing nitrogen and oxygen heteroatoms with π‐electrons. Notably, sinapic acid, a known corrosion inhibitor for steel in acidic environments, was found in DS extract. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) further validated the findings, showing an 84.22 % inhibition efficiency at a DS extract concentration of 300 ppm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the electrode surface confirmed the formation of a protective layer, supporting DS extract's potential as a concrete corrosion inhibitor in aggressive environments. In summary, this study highlights DS extract's potent corrosion inhibition properties, making it a promising candidate for safeguarding concrete structures against corrosion. These findings offer exciting prospects for sustainable corrosion protection strategies in challenging settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion inhibitors are widely used as an important tool for the prevention and remediation of different materials exposed to corrosive industrial processes. Corrosion inhibitors are usually added to acid pickling solutions to reduce the deterioration of metallic materials and particularly, corrosion due to hydrochloric acid. In this work, three bis-Schiff bases (BS2, BS4 and BS8) were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods, and their anti-corrosive effects on AISI 1020 carbon steel in a hydrochloric acid solution were studied using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques and quantum chemical methods. The results showed that all substances act as potential corrosion inhibitors as BS8 exhibited the highest efficiency (98%) of all methods. The compounds adsorbed on the metal surface were as per the El-Awady adsorption isotherm. Morphological aspects of the metal were observed upon applying SEM, and the theoretical results acquired from the quantum chemical calculation for molecular properties and the Fe(110) surface adsorption proved to be compatible with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work focuses on the investigation of protective coatings produced on zinc from chitosan (Chit) and an anionic dye, namely cresol red. Cresol red (CR) fulfills the basic requirements to be used as a corrosion inhibitor because it possesses a relatively high molecular weight and includes in its structure oxygen and sulfur atoms as well as aromatic rings. Moreover, it is an anionic compound that can interact with positively charged chitosan to produce reinforced coatings for zinc anti-corrosion protection. The influence of cresol red as a possible corrosion inhibitor for zinc substrates was investigated either in solution or incorporated in Chit coatings. Two preparation methods for the coatings were used: (i) Chit coating impregnation by immersion in the CR solution after Chit deposition on Zn, and (ii) chitosan mixing with the CR solution before applying the dip-coating technique. Potentiodynamic polarization curves were used to determine the kinetic parameters of the corrosion process. Long-term measurements were carried out in wet/dry cyclic conditions by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. EIS measurements recorded in 0.2 g/L Na2SO4 at pH = 7 show an important increase in the impedance of the coatings occurring from the first until the fifty-fifth day in a row, in dry–wet cycles. This increase is due to the beneficial effect of CR incorporated in Chitosan and could be, at least partially, related to a consolidation of the Chit coating structure in the presence of CR by crosslinking between Chit and CR molecules. The structure of the coatings was studied, and the interactions between chitosan and cresol red were put into evidence by using FT-IR spectroscopy. Adhesion and wettability measurements were also carried out. The adhesion of Chit incorporating CR on Zn was better than that on glass substrates and reached ~99.99%, suggesting a better affinity of the chitosan coating towards the Zn substrate due to the existence of ZnO on the substrate surface. All the results show that CR could be used on zinc as a corrosion inhibitor incorporated in chitosan at basic pHs, but without taking advantage of its pH-indicating properties, which are lost due to the interactions occurring between the positively charged biopolymer and the negatively charged dye molecule. The preparation method of Chit coating impregnation with CR by immersion in the solution after deposition on Zn led to poorer results than the method in which chitosan was previously mixed with CR before applying the dip-coating technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at developing an electrochemical sensor for the detection of phenol, a harmful organic pollutant for both humans and the environment. The sensor was developed by investigating metal oxide and conductive polymer modifiers on graphene electrodes to enhance the sensitivity for the phenol detection. In this research, the production of an electrode is discussed that is very sensitive to phenolic compounds using a composite of zinc oxide and polyaniline modified graphene (Gr/ZnO@PANi). The Gr/ZnO nanocomposite synthesis was carried out using a simple hydrothermal method and modification of PANi on the electrode surface by the electropolymerization method. It was found that the Gr/ZnO@PANi composite electrode can detect phenol effectively, with an efficient electron transfer occurring at a low oxidation potential. Additionally, it was observed that the electrode sensitivity to the phenol concentration was remarkably linear within a range of 10–6–10–1 M, and its limit of detection was as low as 0.0515 μM. Furthermore, the Gr/ZnO@PANi composite electrode exhibited excellent stability in detecting phenolic compounds, as indicated by the low stability coefficients of the relative standard deviation for reproducibility (0.37%) and the randomized strategic demand reduction (1.02%). Those findings suggest that the new Gr/ZnO@ PANi composite electrode is a promising tool for the sensitive detection of phenol in the environment, which could contribute to mitigating its negative impacts on human health and ecosystems. Future studies could explore the potential applications of this sensor for detecting other types of pollutants as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The investigation and reconstruction of firearm-related crimes for the determination of the shooting distance, time since fire, and gunshot residue (GSR) persistence using the analysis of GSR comprising organic and inorganic components are crucial. However, the conventional color tests and allied techniques for GSR analysis are destructive and have limited sensitivity and selectivity. Main text: The review gives an elaborate and chronological description of all the methods used to date along with the future aspects of GSR detection techniques. It highlights the significant methods of spectrometry and spectroscopy applied as analytical techniques for the evaluation of GSR. The study is divided into various sections, ranging from the conventional color tests to the current techniques used in GSR analysis. While there is inconsistency and unreliability in these techniques, the current approaches discussed in this study using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), and electrochemical sensor-based methods have significant potential for GSR detection. Addressing such limitations will enhance the forensic capabilities of law enforcement and provide an added advantage to forensic laboratories during an investigation. It will also reinforce the use of such spectroscopic data in a criminal investigation. The techniques discussed here have the capability to detect both organic and inorganic components of GSR that has the potential to link GSR particles to the type of ammunition discharged. Conclusions: The validity and reliability of these approaches have proved to establish their capability to differentiate between potential false positives known for standard forensic analysis techniques currently used for GSR detection and identification. The paper anticipates a systematic study of the novel methodologies relevant to the current scope of research concerning GSR analysis, when fully developed and implemented in practice will help forensic scientists to detect, identify, and analyze GSR, making it a new and important type of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporary or biodegradable implants have emerged as an alternative to the problems presented by permanent implants made of metals highly resistant to corrosion such as Pt, Ti, or Cr–Mo, since the latter must remain in the body for 1–2 years and removed after bone regeneration. Currently, magnesium is being studied due to its biocompatibility and mechanical properties similar to those of bone tissue, which make it an ideal candidate for temporary biodegradable implants. In this work, phosphate conversion coatings were prepared on Mg samples, using different immersion times in the phosphating bath with a pH of 3.5. In the electrochemical response of the phosphates, it was observed that the anticorrosive resistance only offered protection within the first 24 h of exposure. To help increase the resistance of phosphated, titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were deposited by electrospray on the surface of the phosphated Mg with the purpose of sealing the porosities that are formed with the chemical treatment, observing an improvement in anticorrosive protection, increasing efficiency by up to 50% compared to phosphated coating without TiO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]