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Double-atom catalysts (DACs) for harmful nitrate (NO3−) electroreduction to valuable ammonia (eNO3RR) is attractive for both environmental remediation and energy transformation. However, the limited metal loading in most DACs largely hinders their applications in practical catalytic applications. Therefore, exploring ultrahigh-density (UHD) DACs with abundant active metal centers and excellent eNO3RR activity is highly desired under the site-distance effect. Herein, starting from the experimental M2N6 motif deposited on graphene, we firstly screened the low-density (LD) Mn2N6 and Fe2N6 DACs with high eNO3RR activity and then established an appropriate activity descriptor for the LD–DAC system. By utilizing this descriptor, the corresponding Mn2N6 and Fe2N6 UHD–DACs with dynamic, thermal, thermodynamic, and electrochemical stabilities, are identified to locate at the peak of activity volcano, exhibiting rather-low limiting potentials of −0.25 and −0.38 V, respectively. Further analysis in term of spin state and orbital interaction, confirms that the electronic state effect similar to that of LD–DACs enable the excellent eNO3RR activity to be maintained in the UHD–DACs. These findings highlight the promising application of Mn2N6 and Fe2N6 UHD–DACs in nitrate electroreduction for NH3 production and provide impetus for further experimental exploration of ultrahigh-density DACs based on their intrinsic electronic states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were fabricated at room temperature using Grewia asiatica leaf extract. Photocatalytic activity (degradation of organic dye) and biological activities (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic) of AgNPs were also unveiled. The optical and physicochemical properties of silver nanoparticles were characterised using UV-Visible spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis, and Dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The green synthesis was justified using UV-visible spectroscopy. XRD confirmed the crystalline structure of AgNPs. The reducing and capping nature of leaf extract was explained by FTIR. The relative capping of AgNPs was studied using FESEM. The hydrodynamic size and polydispersity index of the fabricated silver nanoparticles were analysed using DLS. The photocatalytic activity of AgNPs was observed over crystal violet dye under visible light resulting in efficient removal. AgNPs were also employed to biological activities indicating good antibacterial activity (against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria), efficient anti-inflammatory activity, and excellent anti-arthritic activity. This work explains the various applications of AgNPs: an efficient photocatalyst as well as a biomedical weapon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical biosensors have employed at least three distinct system architectures over the last 40 years, moving from "sample in-answer out" systems to completely embedding the optical biosensor into the sample to embedding the recognition module in the sample and optically interrogating the recognition module from outside of the sample. This trends article provides an overview of the evolution of these three system architectures and discusses how each architecture has been applied to solve the measurement challenges of a wide variety of applications. A fourth biosensor system architecture, that of an "autonomous" biosensor which "takes the user out of the loop" while both detecting target analytes and responding to that measurement, is currently under development for applications initially including environmental cleanup and "smart therapeutics." As is the case in many other areas of technology, it will be profoundly interesting to observe the further development and application of elegant, simpler (optical) biosensor systems to address tomorrow's measurement needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Photocatalysis is a promising green approach for water purification. The diversity of water pH values is a key factor that restricts its practical application since pH affects the adsorption of organic molecules, the stability of catalysts and photocatalytic performance. Here, we report a pH–independent, efficient and stable photocatalytic system with a liquid (water)–liquid (oil)–solid (semiconductor) (L–L–S) triphase interface microenvironment. The system is fabricated by coating a thin layer of silicon oil on the surface of ZnO nanowire arrays, a model chemically unstable semiconductor in both acidic and alkaline solutions. We show that the unique interface makes the dye adsorption pH independent and prevents the semiconductor from being corroded by strong acidic/alkaline solutions, leading to a stable and efficient photocatalytic reaction over a wide pH range (1—14). These findings reveal a promising path for the development of high‐performance catalysis systems applicable in complex water environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a high-performance, cost-effective, and durable multifunctional semiconductor is crucial for clean energy and environmental remediation applications such as oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and photocatalysts. In this research, we have developed a hollow sphere-based spinel-structured CoCr 2 O 4 (HS.CCO) for bi-functional applications. These hollow spheres exhibit excellent electrocatalytic OER performance under an alkaline (1 M potassium hydroxide (KOH)) medium, which displays a higher electrocatalytic ability. The spinel hollow spheres demonstrate favorable overpotentials and Tafel potentials of 180 mV and 162 mV/dec, respectively towards OER activity. On the other hand, as a photocatalysis, they portrayed outstanding degradation efficiency under visible light irradiation towards Congo red (CR) dye degradation. Within the short treatment time higher CR degradation efficiency is achieved. These photo-electroactive spinel hollow spheres accelerate efficient OER and visible-light-driven photocatalysis with remarkable stability. They serve as an excellent example of a multifunctional heterogeneous catalyst. Finally, the obtained results indicate the current needs and future demands for enhancing the prospects of multifunctional semiconductor catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Photocatalysis is a promising green approach for water purification. The diversity of water pH values is a key factor that restricts its practical application since pH affects the adsorption of organic molecules, the stability of catalysts and photocatalytic performance. Here, we report a pH–independent, efficient and stable photocatalytic system with a liquid (water)–liquid (oil)–solid (semiconductor) (L–L–S) triphase interface microenvironment. The system is fabricated by coating a thin layer of silicon oil on the surface of ZnO nanowire arrays, a model chemically unstable semiconductor in both acidic and alkaline solutions. We show that the unique interface makes the dye adsorption pH independent and prevents the semiconductor from being corroded by strong acidic/alkaline solutions, leading to a stable and efficient photocatalytic reaction over a wide pH range (1—14). These findings reveal a promising path for the development of high‐performance catalysis systems applicable in complex water environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contaminants sequestration by iron oxides are of particular relevance in environmental chemistry and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy in attenuated total reflectance (ATR) mode is used in this study to investigate the molecular-scale adsorption mechanism of the antibiotic nalidixic acid (NAL) onto ferrihydrite and maghemite surfaces. High-surface area ferrihydrite and nano-sized maghemite were prepared as model adsorbents. This work provides a complete band assignment for protonated and deprotonated NAL to better describe in situ adsorption processes. In situ ATR-FTIR spectroscopy suggests that NAL mainly adsorbs on both iron oxides by a bidentate mode. Results also suggest that two sorption sites coexist on Maghemite surfaces leading to two sorption modes through the carboxylate group: bidentate chelate and bidentate bridging. The obtained results can contribute significantly towards molecular level understanding of antibiotics binding modes on iron oxides, a valuable piece of information to develop environmental remediation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemistry traditionally relies on reactions in solution, but this method is increasingly problematic due to the scale of chemical processes and their economic and environmental impact. Handling residual chemical waste, including solvents, incurs significant costs and environmental pressure. Conversely, novel chemical approaches are needed to address pressing societal issues such as climate change, energy scarcity, food insecurity, and waste pollution. Mechanochemistry, a sustainable chemistry discipline that uses mechanical action to induce chemical reactivity without bulk solvents, is a hot topic in academic research on sustainable and green chemistry. Given its fundamentally different working principles from solution chemistry, mechanochemistry offers more efficient chemical processes and the opportunity to design new chemical reactions. Mechanochemistry has a profound impact on many urgent issues facing our society and it is now necessary to use mechanochemistry to address them. This Minireview aims to provide a guide for using mechanochemistry to meet the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), thereby contributing to a prosperous society. Detailed analysis shows that mechanochemistry connects with most UN SDGs and offers more cost‐efficiency than other approaches together with a superior environmental performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of a new zinc-based coordination polymer, {[Zn(BPMEDA)I]2+·2I3−}n (zinc-CP), utilizing Zn(II) ions and the N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)-1,2-ethylenediamine tetrahydrochloride dihydrate (BPMEDA) ligand. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and elemental mapping confirmed zinc-CP's structural integrity and composition. Furthermore, we assessed the stability of our crystal at different pH levels and evaluated its water stability by immersing the crystal in water over several days. The photoluminescence detection capability of zinc-CP was investigated with nine different antibiotics, revealing that the macrolide antibiotics, roxithromycin (RXM) and azithromycin (AZM), exhibited the highest limits of detection (LOD). Additionally, the photocatalytic degradation phenomenon of zinc-CP was assessed for the same antibiotics, demonstrating remarkable degradation rates of 97.59% for sulfadiazine (SDZ) and 94.52% for RXM. These findings demonstrate zinc-CP's potential as a sensitive sensor and photocatalyst for environmental pharmaceutical contaminants. Zinc-CP can identify and degrade pharmaceutical pollutants like antibiotics, indicating its potential for environmental cleanup. Zinc-CP's sensitive detection and catalytic breakdown make it a promising material for controlling pharmaceutical waste in water and other ecosystems in an environmentally responsible manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solutions for environmental remediation and renewable energy generation have intensified the exploration of efficient photocatalytic materials. Recently, the composites of g-C3N4 and MXene have gained considerable interest for their potential applications in photocatalysis. In the g-C3N4-MXene composite, the g-C3N4 possesses unique physical, chemical, and optical properties to increase visible light absorption. At the same time, MXene improves conductivity, adsorption of reactant molecules or the active sites, and charge transfer properties. Combining the unique physico-chemical properties of MXene and g-C3N4, the resulting composite exhibits superior photo-responsive behavior and is critical in photocatalytic reactions. Furthermore, the g-C3N4-MXene composite exhibits stability and recyclability, making it a promising candidate for sustainable and scalable photocatalytic material in environmental remediation. This review offers an in-depth analysis of the development and design of g-C3N4-MXene composites through diverse synthesis procedures and a comprehensive analysis of their application in carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction, photocatalytic degradation, water splitting processes, mainly hydrogen (H2) generation, H2O2 production, N2 fixation, and NO x removal. The charge transfer mechanism of g-C3N4-MXene composite for photocatalytic application has also been discussed. This review provides insights into the photocatalytic capabilities of g-C3N4-MXene composites, showing their potential to address current environmental challenges and establish a robust foundation for sustainable energy conversion technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating severity of plastic waste's impact on the ecological environment and human health emphasize the crucial importance of developing resource‐conserving disposal technologies for sustainable development. Carbon‐based materials possess extensive functional applications across various fields, however, their high production costs and heavy reliance on fossil fuels pose challenges. Plastic wastes serve as ideal precursors for the green and sustainable production of carbon‐based functional materials due to high carbon content and low‐cost. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent research progress on plastic waste‐derived carbon materials (PWCMs) including primary strategies for constructing PWCMs and their current functional applications in energy storage, environmental remediation and organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing bismuth compounds-based heterojunctions with superior redox capability has emerged as a promising strategy for environmental remediation. Herein, p-BiOI/n-Bi 2 WO 6 heterojunctions were successfully obtained via a novel, facile, and green solvothermal method. The heterojunctions were synthesized using different mass ratios (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1) of BiOI (BI) and Bi 2 WO 6 (BW), with 1:1 as the best ratio, which was decorated with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) applying green methodologies. The as-prepared BI/BW heterojunctions were characterized by several techniques, and their adsorption capacity and photodegradation activity toward tetracycline (TC) under 19 W visible LEDs illumination were investigated. The capacity of pure BI, BW and BI/BW heterojunctions for adsorbing TC ranged from 14 to 68 mg/g; among the heterojunctions, Ag/1BI/1BW showed the highest TC adsorption capacity, 35 mg/g. Moreover, the photocatalytic tests revealed that the Ag/1BI/1BW exhibited the highest catalytic performance, achieving a TC percentage degradation of 81 % within 120 min. The low nominal power consumption of the LED-based photoreactor (0.0475 kWh) was significantly lower than that reported in the literature for using Xe or Hg lamps. In addition, catalyst dosage, initial TC concentration, and solution pH were investigated, demonstrating that they play important role in TC photodegradation. Scavenger assays determined that the degradation of TC using Ag/1BI/1BW proceeds mainly via superoxide radicals and holes, which agrees with the carrier transfer mechanism postulated for this heterojunction. TOC analysis revealed that the efficiency of Ag/1BI/1BW was 63 %, and reuse tests confirmed its high performance even after three cycles. This research provides new insights into the design of high-performance heterojunctions for water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biophotoelectrochemistry (BPEC) is an emerging filed concerned with the photoelectron transfer process between photoactive materials with organisms. BPEC systems improve carbon fixation, nitrogen fixation, water remediation, and recovery of wastewater energy, enabling efficient solar energy conversion to chemical energy and enhancing environmental sustainability. Design innovations in BPEC systems optimize electron transfer and stability, expanding their application in environmental remediation. Synthetic biology is crucial for advancing BPEC and tailoring microbial metabolic pathways for specific environmental tasks. BPEC technologies offer scalable solutions for pollutant degradation and energy recovery, contributing to a circular economy. In seeking sustainable environmental strategies, microbial biophotoelectrochemistry (BPEC) systems represent a significant advancement. In this review, we underscore the shift from conventional bioenergy systems to sophisticated BPEC applications, emphasizing their utility in leveraging solar energy for essential biochemical conversions. Recent progress in BPEC technology has facilitated improved photoelectron transfer and system stability, resulting in substantial advancements in carbon and nitrogen fixation, degradation of pollutants, and energy recovery from wastewater. Advances in system design and synthetic biology have expanded the potential of BPEC for environmental clean-up and sustainable energy generation. We also highlight the challenges of environmental BPEC systems, ranging from performance improvement to future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pose significant environmental and health risks due to their ubiquitous presence and persistence in water systems. Herein, the efficacy of piezocatalysis using barium titanate nanoparticles under ultrasound irradiation for the degradation and defluorination of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in water is investigated. The research demonstrates a substantial 90.5% degradation and 29% defluorination of PFOS after 6 h of treatment, highlighting the potential of piezocatalysis as a promising approach for PFAS degradation. Additionally, the quantification of degradation products elucidates the transformation pathways of PFOS, suggesting a stepwise chain‐shortening mechanism. The findings underscore the importance of continued research in optimizing piezocatalytic processes and exploring synergistic approaches with other advanced oxidation methods to effectively address PFAS contamination challenges. These efforts are essential for advancing sustainable water treatment strategies and mitigating the environmental and health hazards associated with PFAS contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edible mushroom industry is the sixth largest after grain, cotton, oil, vegetables and fruits, and the annual production of edible mushrooms in China exceeds 40 million tons. Edible mushroom cultivation produces a class of by-products consisting mainly of mycelium remnants and lignocellulosic waste, known as Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) or Spent Mushroom Compost (SMC). SMS/SMC is rich in nutrients and active ingredients and has an extremely high recycling potential. This review paper summarizes SMS recycling strategies from the perspectives of "environmental remediation" and "circular economy", and briefly discusses the legitimacy, possible challenges and future research of SMS recycling. It is hoped that this will assist researchers in related fields and promote the development of the SMS recycling industry, thereby contributing to sustainable environmental and economic development. Implications: The efficient management of SMS is important for many countries around the world, particularly major mushroom producing countries. Traditional disposal methods (incineration, burial, piling) can cause serious damage to the environment and waste resources. The correct disposal method can protect the natural environment and provide certain economic benefits. This study presents the main methods of SMS processing from both an "environmental remediation" and "circular economy" perspective. In general, this paper emphasizes the importance of SMS processing, introduces the current mainstream processing methods and briefly discusses the legality of their processing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial electric syntrophy, involving direct electron transfer between electron-donating strains and electron-accepting strains, could reduce more than 50% of methane emissions and remove 90% of nitrate pollution in some wastewaters. Microbial electric syntrophy is also a key natural process allowing the survival of bacteria in harsh environmental conditions. Here we review natural and artificial cases of interspecies electron transfer in microbial syntrophy, with emphasis on methane production, electroactive bacteria, methanogens, anaerobic methane-oxidizing consortia, Geobacter species, phototrophic bacteria, co-cultures, anaerobic digestion, environmental remediation and microbial electrosynthesis. Environmental remediation includes nitrogen removal, reductive dechlorination and pollutant degradation. Microbial electrosynthesis can be used for carbon dioxide reduction. Conductive proteins and materials, and light-assisted electron transfer contribute to the direct interspecies electron transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are mainly considered as the important source of energy and from ancient times plants, and the plants products are used in various form. These pharmacologically bioactive compounds have limited use due to their insolubility in water, and to overcome this, these compounds were encapsulated in biodegradable polymers and gums which enable them to be used practically for therapeutic purposes. In this review article we briefly discussed about the trans-ferulic acid-loaded polymeric nanoformulations which can be used for preclinical and clinical purpose. Trans-ferulic acid-loaded polymeric nanoformulations were synthesized using ionic gelation method. The polymeric nanoformulations have diameter mainly in nanometers which is mainly due to their high surface area to volume ratio. Their unique physical and chemical properties make them attractive for a variety of applications, such as drug administration, cosmetics, and environmental remediation. Plant science is becoming more and more interested in the topic of nanotechnology, particularly with regard to the use of nanomaterials as vehicles for agrochemicals or biomolecules and their enormous potential in different fields. It has been shown in recent years that significant advancements in nanotechnology have been made in the synthesis of nanoparticles and their use in diagnosis and treatment in medicine. More research is deemed necessary in this direction to optimize the synthesis and biofunctionalization of nanoparticles for different applications, as well as to better understand the mechanisms and enhance sustainability for human health. Lastly, we have examined a few cutting-edge and novel ferulic acid nanoformulations and we assume that this review article will provide researchers a chance to close the gaps in preclinical and clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 nanocomposite (NC) coated with polyethylene glycol were synthesized via hydrothermal synthesis, achieving uniform particle formation and controlled crystallinity. Characterization using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) confirmed the physical attributes and homogeneity of the nanocomposite. Polyethylene glycol-coated α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 showed a reduced crystalline size of 19.13 nm compared to 22.93 nm for uncoated nanoparticles. Optical band gap measurements revealed values of 4.64 electron volts for polyethylene glycol, 1.98 electron volts for α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 NC, and 3.18 electron volts for α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@polyethylene glycol nanocomposites, indicating both insulating and semiconducting behaviors. The photocatalytic performance of the polyethylene glycol-coated α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 was demonstrated by a 99.4% degradation of Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) dye within 120 minutes at a concentration of 5 milligrams per milliliter, with a pseudo-first-order rate constant of 0.02047 per minute. Furthermore, the nanocomposites exhibited strong recyclability and reusability, making them viable candidates for environmental remediation. The study underscores the potential of α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 NC in applications such as water treatment and antioxidant therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present a novel green synthesis method for magnesium oxide/magnesium peroxide nanocomposite using citric acid, enhancing both photocatalytic degradation and antioxidant activity. The physical properties and light absorption of the nanostructure were examined using X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy techniques. A cubic phase was identified, with a nano-size of 25 nm, and a bandgap energy of 2.45 eV was determined. In the photocatalytic degradation tests, the nanostructure achieved an 85% removal rate of Brilliant Cresyl Blue dye after 120 min, with a pseudo-first-order rate constant of 0.014 min⁻¹. Computational simulations revealed a high adsorption energy of -131.552 eV for Brilliant Cresyl Blue on the magnesium oxide/magnesium peroxide nanocomposite, indicating strong binding affinity and supporting the experimental degradation efficiency. Antioxidant assays revealed a half-maximal inhibitory concentration value of 45.81 µg/mL, showcasing substantial free radical scavenging capabilities comparable to established antioxidants. The antibacterial properties of magnesium oxide/magnesium peroxide nanocomposite were assessed against Staphylococcus aureus through the agar well diffusion method. The results demonstrated significant antibacterial efficacy, with inhibition zones ranging from 7.9 ± 0.4 mm to 14.9 ± 1.5 mm, indicating a dose-dependent antibacterial effect. This research advances green synthesis methods for multifunctional nanomaterials, offering promising solutions for environmental remediation and highlighting the potential of magnesium oxide/magnesium peroxide nanocomposite in wastewater treatment, antioxidant applications, and as a potent antibacterial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is increasingly recognized for its crucial role in addressing challenges in agriculture and environmental management, with nano-scaled materials central to this advancement. Conventional physical and chemical synthesis methods for nanomaterials often involve hazardous chemicals, posing safety and environmental risks, and are frequently cost-ineffective. This review investigates the innovative biosynthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles, emphasizing their production through eco-friendly approaches involving biomolecules, plant-derived phytoconstituents, polyphenols, bacteria, algae, and fungi. We highlight how biosynthesized MgO nanoparticles exhibit exceptional properties, including unique morphology, high surface area, controlled particle size, and effective stabilization. The review also explores recent advances in their application as nanocatalysts, particularly for environmental remediation tasks such as photocatalytic degradation of dyes and removal of heavy metal ions and pesticides from contaminated environments. By underscoring the significance of green synthesis techniques, this study illustrates their potential in advancing sustainable nanotechnology solutions. It provides a promising foundation for future research in addressing pressing environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research outlines the development, comprehensive analysis, and assessment of the photocatalytic and antibacterial properties of ZnO/ZnSnO₃ nanocomposite (NC). The nanocomposite was synthesized using an eco-friendly green synthesis method with lemon peel extract. Techniques such as XRD, SEM, and FTIR verified the formation of dual-phase ZnO/ZnSnO₃ NC with an energy gap of ~ 1.9 eV and an average crystallite size of ~ 25.45 ± 1.24 nm. Photocatalytic degradation evaluated for Evans Blue (EB) dye under solar light indicated high degradation efficiency ~ 99.57% during 90 min, following pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant ~ 0.11 min⁻¹. Furthermore, ZnO/ZnSnO₃ NC exhibited notable antibacterial potential with inhibition zones ranging from (10.0 ± 1.3 to 12.0 ± 0.5) mm for E. coli and (9.0 ± 0.8 to 14.0 ± 0.6) mm for P. aeruginosa, with improved activity against K. pneumoniae and S. aureus. The as-prepared NC exhibited significant antifungal activity against C. albicans with inhibition zones ~ 22.0 ± 0.3 mm. The results obtained categorized ZnO/ZnSnO₃ NC as a potential candidate to be utilized for environmental cleanup and wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction of multi-interface contact step-scheme (S-scheme) photocatalyst is a promising pathway to achieve high-electron transfer efficiency for photodegradation estrone and congo red. In this paper, g-C3N4 is chosen as the main photocatalyst, CeO2 nanosheet with the unique Ce4+ → Ce3+ conversion performance and Fe3O4-Reduced graphene oxide are loaded onto the g-C3N4 surface to bulid 2D-2D magnetic photocatalyst. The 2D–2D magnetic photocatalyst structure imparts reusability by magnetic retrieval and at the same time Fe3O4-Reduced graphene oxide acts as an efficient host for g-C3N4/CeO2 composite photocatalyst. The photocatalytic performance is examined using etsrone and congo red. Photodegradation studies show the CeO2/g-C3N4/ Fe3O4- Reduced graphene oxide a composite catalyst can degrade 71% of estrone, 92% of congo red and 89% phenanthrene, Free radical scavenger test shows superoxide and hydroxyl radical species play a major role in the degradation. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the magnetic CeO2/g-C3N4/ Fe3O4-Reduced graphene oxide possesses strong antibacterial properties against Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli. A three-factor-three-level Box–Behnken design (BBD) was selected to optimize three greatly influential parameters: light irradiation time (min), The quality of photocatalyst(mg) and pollution concentration(ppm) by response surface methodology. It is expected that CeO2/g-C3N4/ Fe3O4- Reduced graphene oxide can be used as a 2D–2D magnetic photocatalyst for to achieve its valorization, which have very broad development prospects in the field of environmental remediation or catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biowaste conversion can achieve carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability. • Fabrication and formation mechanisms of BCMs were reviewed in plasma hybrid system. • Plasma modified BCM has a new transition lattice phase and exhibits high resilience. • Artificial intelligence is beneficial for applications in biowaste management. • Unique 2D structures can be designed from biowaste with fascinating properties. This review focuses on the recent advances in the sustainable conversion of biowaste to valuable carbonaceous materials. This study summarizes the significant progress in biowaste-derived carbon materials (BCMs) via a plasma hybrid system. This includes systematic studies like AI-based multi-coupling systems, promising synthesis strategies from an economic point of view, and their potential applications towards energy, environment, and biomedicine. Plasma modified BCM has a new transition lattice phase and exhibits high resilience, while fabrication and formation mechanisms of BCMs are reviewed in plasma hybrid system. A unique 2D structure can be designed and formulated from the biowaste with fascinating physicochemical properties like high surface area, unique defect sites, and excellent conductivity. The structure of BCMs offers various activated sites for element doping and it shows satisfactory adsorption capability, and dynamic performance in the field of electrochemistry. In recent years, many studies have been reported on the biowaste conversion into valuable materials for various applications. Synthesis methods are an indispensable factor that directly affects the structure and properties of BCMs. Therefore, it is imperative to review the facile synthesis methods and the mechanisms behind the formation of BCMs derived from the low-temperature plasma hybrid system, which is the necessity to obtain BCMs having desirable structure and properties by choosing a suitable synthesis process. Advanced carbon–neutral materials could be widely synthesized as catalysts for application in environmental remediation, energy conversion and storage, and biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare earth elements are crucial for applications in aerospace, electronics, petrochemicals, and metallurgical industries. However, as rare earth mining expands, their tailings accumulate, leading to severe soil erosion and threatening of the local ecology. This study aimed to investigate the impact of planting Paspalum wettsteinii and soil amendments, including superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), organics, minerals, and urea, in controlling soil erosion. Six treatments, each with four replicates, were implemented on micro‐runoff plots on rare earth tailings: (1) bare slopes, (2) bare slopes repaired with composite soil amendments, (3) grass slopes, (4) grass slopes repaired with SAPs, and grass slopes repaired with (5) low or (6) high amounts of composites. Over 11 months, natural rainfall patterns, vegetation coverage, runoff yield, and sediment yield were monitored on the tailings' slope. Initially, plant growth was slow on bare slopes (56% vegetation coverage at 130 days), but it significantly improved with soil amendments (74% vegetation coverage on grass slopes repaired with SAPs and 97% vegetation coverage on grass slopes repaired with composites at 52 days). Adding composites onto bare slopes marginally reduced runoff and sediment yields by 3% and 16%, respectively. Vegetation, especially when combined with composites, significantly reduced runoff by 77% and sediment by 96%, while supplementing planting with SAPs decreased runoff by 41% and sediment by 88%. Planting without any amendments resulted in lower reductions of 26% in runoff and 81% in sediment. The results of the structural equation model showed that SAPs and fertilizers indirectly reduce sediment yield by increasing vegetation cover, with fertilizers also exercising a positive direct effect on sediment regulation. Our findings highlight how SAPs coupled with organic and inorganic fertilizers promote plant growth and erosion control, as applying these composites alone is less effective in controlling erosion on bare slopes. These results have promising implications for the ecological restoration of rare earth tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the efficacy of advanced oxidation treatment methods, focusing on the photo-Fenton process for removing organic pollutants from wastewater. Despite prior research, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding the optimal operational conditions for maximizing pollutant removal efficiency. This manuscript fills those gaps through extensive batch experiments, meticulously evaluating the impacts of irradiation time, pH levels, and ferrous sulfate and hydrogen peroxide concentrations on treatment outcomes. Our results indicate that an irradiation time of 140 minutes and a pH of 3.1 are critical for achieving remarkable pollutant removal efficiencies: 91.57% for color, 85.14% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), and 79.87% for total organic carbon (TOC) over a 180-minute treatment period with optimal dosages. To further enhance understanding, we employed predictive models utilizing response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD), rigorously assessing their statistical performance. The models demonstrated strong alignment with experimental data and existing literature, showcasing their reliability. This research not only provides novel insights into optimizing wastewater treatment processes but also holds significant practical value for industries aiming to implement effective strategies for mitigating organic pollution. By addressing critical knowledge gaps, this study lays a foundation for improved environmental remediation practices, offering a vital framework for industries committed to sustainable wastewater management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis is a novel approach to degrade hazardous compounds, frequently employed in environmental remediation such as eliminating methyl orange (MO) dye from wastewater. However, low efficient usage of visible light due to the large band gap of photocatalysts and its high rate of recombination limit the process. To address this issue, piezophototronics has been utilized to improve the efficacy of catalytic degradation. Specifically for this study, the piezo-photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO–MoS2 heterostructures has been realized using solar and mechanical energy in degrading MO dye. One-dimensional heterostructures with an average length of 3.34 μm and an average diameter of 872.6 nm compactly aligned on glass substrates were synthesized through a two-step hydrothermal process. Under simulated solar illumination and ultrasonic vibration, the ZnO–MoS2 effectively degraded MO, improving the degradation efficiency from 55% to 84% by introducing piezopotential in ZnO. Ultrasonication aided the photocatalysis through field-assisted separation of the photogenerated electrons and holes, reducing recombination. Coupled liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry confirmed the degradation of MO into its smaller metabolites. The catalyst films have achieved 61% degradation even after 3 times reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis, a green energy technology that effectively addresses environmental pollution and energy scarcity, has garnered significant attention. However, the widespread use of powdered photocatalysts poses low utilization of irradiation light and separation efficiency, and recycling challenges. To address these challenges, hydrogel photocatalysts with enhanced activity and stability have been developed by incorporating active substances into hydrogels for environmental remediation and energy conversion. In this review, we summarize various studies conducted in recent years, focusing primarily on diverse hydrogel-based photocatalysts that exhibit significant potential for the removal of pollutants from wastewater and in energy conversion applications. The review offers a classification of hydrogel-based photocatalysts, encompassing graphene hydrogel-based, natural polymer hydrogel-based, and free-radical polymerization hydrogel-based photocatalysts. Furthermore, it systematically summarizes the recent advancements in the application of hydrogel-based photocatalysts for environmental remediation, including the treatment of dyes, antibiotics, heavy metal ions, and pesticides, as well as for energy conversion processes such as hydrogen production, H2O2 generation and CO2 conversion. Finally, this review offers insights and recommendations for the further development of hydrogel-based photocatalysts, aiming to foster the progress of photochemical catalysis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hospital wastewater is major contributor to pharmaceutical contaminants, particularly antibiotic like tetracycline. Tetracycline is often found as a pollutant in water bodies, primarily due to its improper disposal and excretion through human and animal waste. This wastewater poses serious environmental and health risks. We synthesized a novel composite material M type lead hexaferrites/g-carbon nitride (PbFe12O19/g-C3N4) to address this alarming issue. The combine effect of lead hexaferrite with graphitic-C3N4, aiming to enhance the degradation of tetracycline (TC). The characterization of the synthesized composite was conducted using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared radiation spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-Visible spectroscopy. The photocatalytic output of the samples was evaluated under sunlight irradiation. The results demonstrated superior removal efficiency of tetracycline up to 90% in only 60 min compared to individual components. This work highlights the potential of PbFe12O19/g-C3N4 composites as effective photocatalysts for treating pharmaceutical contaminants especially tetracycline in wastewater. Highlights: Combination of PbFe12O19 and g-C3N4 enhanced charge separation and increased surface area. The nanocomposites have a band gap of 2.03 eV, ideal for photocatalysis under visible light. Achieved 90% degradation of tetracycline in 60 min under sunlight. g-C3N4-based composites offer high conductivity and porosity for effective antibiotic removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discharge of synthetic dyes, exemplified by Congo Red (CR), into natural ecosystems poses a substantial threat to environmental sustainability and human health. To address this challenge, nanocatalysts have emerged as promising tools for efficient pollutant degradation. In this study, polyacrylate-stabilized copper nanoparticles (PA@Cu) were synthesized using sodium borohydride (NaBH4) and evaluated for their catalytic activity in CR degradation. The structural and morphological properties of PA@Cu were characterized using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), revealing OH stretching vibrations, carbonyl groups, and metal–oxygen stretching vibrations indicative of nanoparticle stabilization. Moreover, the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) confirms the crystallinity of the NPs. Catalytic performance evaluation demonstrated rapid and efficient decolorization of CR solutions in 12 min up to 82%, with a pseudo-first-order kinetic model yielding a Kapp value of 0.1293 min−1 and an R2 value of 0.8101. Turnover frequency (TOF) analysis revealed dynamic reaction rates over distinct time intervals. The findings suggest that PA@Cu nanoparticles hold significant potential as sustainable catalysts for addressing dye pollution. This study contributes to the advancement of nanocatalytic processes for environmental remediation, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary research in developing effective strategies for mitigating pollutant-induced ecological damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is about the effect of gamma radiations on the degradation of Acid Violet 49 (AV49) in the presence of H2O2 (γ/H2O2). The Cs-137 radiation source was calibrated to irradiate the aqueous solution of AV49 within the 1 kGy, 5 kGy & 10 kGy dose range. The results showed that 50–150 mg/L of AV49 was effectively degraded by γ radiation (85 %), however, the concentration of H2O2 in the range of 0.2–0.6 mL promoted degradation to 90 % and 98 %, respectively. It was observed that all absorption bands declined with rising irradiation dose and disappeared completely after 10 kGy applied dose. pH conditions (3, 5,7, and 9) were used in the radio-lytic degradation of AV49, the results showed that the best degradation efficiency has been found for pH 9. The optimum degradation rate is higher (98 %) with a 50 mg/L concentration of AV49, 0.6 mL H2O2, and pH 9 at a 10 kGy absorbed dose. In addition, the influence of various parameters on the rate of degradation such as the effect of irradiation dose, pH, H2O2, and dye (AV49) concentration was also studied. Furthermore, the removal of total organic carbon TOC was not as effective as that of the AV 49. Total nitrogen TN was not completely removed even at high dosage. Radio-lytic degradation of AV49 was analyzed by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) as an analytical technique. Results revealed that the proposed methodology for degradation of dyes is effective and probably could be applied for the removal of other toxic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the promising potential of piezo‐catalysis in environmental remediation applications, the performance of various piezoelectric materials still suffer from low carrier concentrations, limited carrier mobility, and rapid recombination of electron‐hole pairs, and the reported modification strategies are quite intricate and challenging to implement. Herein, MoS2 with varying degrees of crystallinity is synthesized through drying and thermal treatment processes, and the effect of crystal engineering on the performance of the piezo‐activated peroxomonosulfate (PAP) system is investigated. The MoS2 annealed at 700 °C (M‐700) with a crystallization of 60.4% exhibited superior performance in the PAP system, which can degrade 99.6% of bisphenol A within 30 min with a mineralization rate of 57.0%. The positive correlation among the crystallinity of piezoelectric catalysts, the parameters of piezoelectric performance (d33) and piezo‐catalytic performance within a certain range is proposed. From the density functional perturbation theory (DFPT), the crystalline‐amorphous hybrid of M‐700 provided an appropriate charge transfer rate, electron concentration, and mechanical strength, which is more conducive to stimulate the active species chain reaction of PMS. This study provides a novel method for improving the piezo‐catalytic activities and holds great promise for water pollution treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in additive manufacturing (AM) techniques have significantly expanded the potential applications of magnetic materials and devices. This review summarizes various AM methods, including ink‐based and ink‐free processes, and their use in fabricating complex magnetic structures with specific properties tailored for different fields. Key applications discussed include energy‐harvesting devices enhanced with magnetic nanoparticles, water decontamination through magnetically guided microswimmers, and magnetic soft composites in robotics and medical devices. In addition, the integration of AM in producing wearable and flexible magnetic sensors is highlighted, demonstrating its transformative impact on human‐machine interactions. Furthermore, rare‐earth‐free magnets and electric motor designs enabled by AM techniques are also discussed. Despite material compatibility and scalability challenges, AM provides opportunities for creating multifunctional, sustainable devices with reduced waste. Future research should focus on optimizing these techniques for complex applications and large‐scale production, particularly in eco‐friendly and industrial settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of greater efforts to address antibiotic resistance, Ciprofloxacin (CIP) buildup in the aqueous medium continues to rise. The negative effects of CIP on the environment can be minimized through a comprehensive understanding of the technological advancements in removal techniques. The exploration of adsorbents like metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), activated carbon, porous organic polymers, etc., have found major usage in the adsorptive removal of antibiotics to tackle contamination. This study aims to compare the MOF‐based adsorbents and provide a guide to developing such materials for the successful removal of CIP. The isotherm models of the adsorbents are studied using Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Sips isotherms. Furthermore, pseudo‐second‐order, pseudo‐first order, intra‐particle diffusion, and Elovich models are used to study the kinetic models. The major mechanisms of adsorption, such as π–π interactions, H‐bonding, electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions, and pore filling, are also analyzed. This study contributes to the future scope for the development of these MOFs for further exploration and applications in environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) has gained significant momentum due to their remarkable properties, including adjustable pore sizes, extensive surface area, and customizable compositions, which have urged scientists to investigate their applicability in pertinent societal issues such as water absorption, environmental remediation, and sensor technology. MOFs have the ability to transport and detect specific biomolecules, including proteins. One such biomolecule is alkaline phosphatase (ALP) that can be influenced by various diseases and can lead to severe consequences when its regulation is disrupted. The porous nature of MOFs and their tunable nature allows them to selectively adsorb, interact directly or indirectly with ALP. This ultimately influences the electronic and optical properties of the MOF, leading to measurable changes. Early detection and continuous monitoring of ALP play a crucial role in the use of an effective treatment, and recent studies have shown that MOFs are effective in detecting alkaline phosphatases. This manuscript offers a thorough examination of the potential biomedical applications of MOFs for monitoring alkaline phosphatase and envisions possible future trends in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since cellulose is the most common biopolymer in the world, there has been a lot of interest in its nanoscale version called nanocellulose due to the growing demand for sustainable products. To validate nanocellulose as a key component in the shift to a bio‐based economy, this review provides a thorough and critical assessment of the valorization of cellulose into nanocellulose, highlighting its unique properties, cutting‐edge extraction methods, surface modifications, and multiple applications. The study thoroughly compares nanocellulose with other natural and synthetic polymers, in contrast to earlier research, emphasizing the latter's inferior mechanical qualities, biocompatibility, and adaptability. In addition, we discuss recent developments in surface modification and extraction techniques that improve the performance of nanocellulose in high‐impact applications like medication administration, electronics, packaging, and environmental remediation. This analysis demonstrates the economic and sustainability potential of nanocellulose and suggests strategic options for future research by summarizing recent advances and identifying research gaps. Our study shows that turning cellulose into nanocellulose is valuable not just as a research project but also as a critical first step in creating long‐lasting materials to deal with the pressing issues of the twenty‐first century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is a biopolymer derived from chitin, which is the second most abundant and renewable polymer in nature after cellulose. Low-molecular-weight chitosan (LMWC) is the degradation product of chitosan through depolymerization. Compared with conventional chitosan, LMWC is considered as one of the most promising functional materials due to its characteristics of lower polymerization degree, lower viscosity, good water solubility, reactivity and degradability. This review focused on the preparation and characterization methods as well as the application in environmental remediation of LMWC. The three main methods of LMWC preparation including chemical, physical and enzymatic methods were summarized and compared in this paper. The mechanism, advantages and disadvantages of various preparation methods were also discussed. In addition, the applications of LMWC in environmental fields such as water treatment, soil remediation and air purification were briefly reviewed. With the continuous progress of science and technology and the improvement of environmental awareness, it is believed that more efficient, economical and environmentally friendly chitosan degradation methods will be developed, providing strong support for the wide application of LMWC in the field of environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing sustainable and eco-friendly methods for nanoparticle (NP) production in an era of environmental consciousness is crucial. This study introduces a novel approach to synthesizing silver (Ag) NPs using Citrus paradisi leaves extract (CPLE) as a green precursor at optimum conditions of the AgNO3 (2 mM) with CPLE in 1:3 ratio, at pH 14 and 80 °C temperature for reaction time of 4 h. The CP@AgNPs were formed and stabilized by Naringen, a major Citrus paradisi component. CP@AgNPs were thoroughly characterized through ultraviolet−visible (UV−vis) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) imaging techniques. CP@AgNPs demonstrated SPR peak at 450 nm, face cubic crystal structure, the average size of 8 nm, rod-shaped particle adsorbed on quasi-spherical shaped agglomerated NPs, significantly impacting both environmental and biomedical fields. In the catalytic degradation experiment, an application for environment pollutant reducer, CP@AgNPs, achieved an impressive 85% degradation efficiency of the methyl orange (MO) dye, showcasing their potential as a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment. Additionally, CP@AgNPs exhibited potent anti-biofilm properties, with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.13 and 0.12 mg/ml against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), respectively, indicating their promise in addressing biofilm-related issues in healthcare and industrial settings. CP@AgNPs also displayed exceptional antioxidant potential with IC50 values of 2.02, 0.07, and 0.035 mg/ml for CPLE, CP@AgNPs, and ascorbic acid, respectively, in scavenging DPPH radical, suggesting their utility in biomedical applications for mitigating oxidative stress. Notably, the bio-activity results of CP@AgNPs surpassed those of CP leaf extract, highlighting the enhanced properties achieved through this green synthesis approach. This study provides a sustainable and environmental remediation to biomedical science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nNOVELTY STATEMENTThis review article explores the applications of Basella alba (Malabar spinach), a fast-growing vine plant known for its numerous health benefits, culinary uses, and potential in dye and oil production. Fluoride contamination in water poses a significant global health and environmental challenge, particularly in regions where natural and industrial activities lead to elevated fluoride levels. Among its varied applications, B. alba has shown significant promise in the phytoremediation of contaminants in both water and soil, owing to its hyper accumulating capacities. The plant has a transfer factor value of more than 1 which means that there is higher accumulation of contaminants in parts of the plant than in soil. The objective of this review is to assess the feasibility of B. alba in contributing to sustainable water management solutions for fluoride contamination, while offering a comprehensive evaluation of its environmental remediation potential. The article examines the biosorption capabilities of B. alba based on its established use in phytoremediation, offering insights into its suitability for addressing fluoride contamination in water. This article is organized into sections starting with an introduction, which brings explains the global challenge of fluoride, and different treatment techniques justifying why biosorption needs to be considered, cases of application of phytoremediation using B. Alba, and finally exploring the success factors for plants that have been applied for both biosorption and phytoremediation.This review article presents a novel exploration of Basella alba (Malabar spinach) as a biosorbent—a material capable of adsorbing contaminants from solutions—for fluoride removal from aqueous environments. While B. alba is well-known for its health benefits, culinary uses, and broad phytoremediation capabilities, its specific application in fluoride biosorption remains underexplored. This review addresses that gap by providing key findings on the plant’s fluoride adsorption capacity, the influence of pretreatment methods (such as chemical modification), and its efficiency under varying environmental conditions. Additionally, the paper explores the synergistic effects of combining biosorption with other treatment strategies, demonstrating B. alba’s potential for enhanced performance. By focusing on how B. alba can contribute to the pressing challenge of fluoride contamination in water—an issue that poses significant health risks in many regions—this research introduces a sustainable, low-cost, and eco-friendly approach to water purification. The findings contribute to advancing plant-based environmental remediation methods, offering a viable solution to fluoride pollution in areas where traditional treatments may be less accessible or affordable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Against the backdrop of escalating antibiotic pollution, this study presents a novel approach to remediation using a photothermal heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalyst, Bi12CoO20/rGO, which efficiently activates peroxymonosulfate (PMS) under near‐infrared (NIR) light. This catalyst capitalize on the NIR absorption capabilities of Bi12CoO20 and the electron transfer properties of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The restored sp2 structure of rGO serves as a conduit for electron transfer, crucial for the redox cycle of Co2+/Co3+ that facilitates PMS activation. Moreover, the incorporation of rGO significantly boosts the NIR absorption capacity of Bi12CoO20, thereby enhancing the photothermal conversion efficiency of the composite and further promoting PMS activation. This synergy enables efficient light‐to‐heat conversion and PMS activation, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for antibiotic degradation. Using levofloxacin (LVX) as a representative pollutant, the developed system achieves an impressive 99 % degradation rate within just 30 min under Bi12CoO20/rGO+PMS+NIR conditions. Moreover, this approach demonstrates robust stability and adaptability across diverse water compositions and pH ranges. Its eco‐friendly nature and renewable characteristics position it as a promising solution for combating antibiotic pollution through photothermal Fenton‐like technology, thereby harnessing solar energy for environmental remediation and fostering sustainable water management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezocatalysis is capable of harnessing mechanical energy for environmental remediation, which is regarded as a green and promising technology to be exploited. Piezoceramics are struggling to be used as highly efficient piezocatalysts due to their grain size reaching tens of micrometers usually. Herein, a feasible and straightforward method is proposed to turn piezoceramic powders into highly efficient piezocatalysts by integrating size optimization and oxygen vacancy modulation. This strategy is validated by treating lead‐free Sr0.5Ba0.5Nb2O6 (SBN) piezoceramic powders with high‐energy ball‐milling (hBM). The rate constant k value of 46.95 × 10−3 min−1 for rhodamine B (RhB) piezocatalytic degradation of SBN‐hBM‐12h is almost 18 times higher than that of pristine SBN. Besides, the SBN‐hBM‐12 h catalyst performed superior antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli. The enhanced piezocatalytic efficiency is attributed to the introduced abundant oxygen vacancies absorbing and activating O2 into reactive oxygen species. Well‐modulated oxygen vacancy concentration can effectively accelerate the generation and separation of free carriers. However, the excess oxygen vacancies in SBN render the weakened piezoresponse thus suppressing the piezocatalytic activity. This study elucidates the critical role of oxygen vacancies in piezocatalysis and provides insights into the development of efficient piezocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a time characterized by the increasing interest in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as widely researched crystalline porous substances geared toward enhancing device and system capabilities across diverse environmental contexts, 2D MOFs emerge as a noteworthy class of nanomaterials that integrate the benefits of 2D structures with the unique characteristics inherent to MOFs. These 2D MOFs possess ultrathin nanosheet configuration, abundant accessible active sites, and remarkable mechanical flexibility. Such distinctive properties differentiate them from bulk MOFs and other 2D materials, offering the potential to instigate novel environmental phenomena and applications. This review focuses on the latest progress in the application of 2D MOFs within essential water‐related ecological fields, including contaminant adsorption, photocatalytic degradation, membrane separation, environmental sensing, and disinfection. A variety of synthesis approaches for 2D MOFs are analyzed, accompanied by a discussion on their effectiveness across different environmental settings. The unique structure and features of 2D MOFs that grant outstanding environmental functionalities are compared with those of bulk MOFs. The environmental ramifications of 2D MOFs are highlighted while outlining future research needs to explore the environmental applications of these innovative materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnS/WO3 composite nanoplates were created by a hydrothermal vulcanization reaction using ZnO as the sacrificial layer. ZnO films were deposited on the surface of WO3 nanoplates with different sputtering times to act as templates for the hydrothermal synthesis of ZnS/WO3 nanoplates with different ZnS contents. Structural analysis revealed the sputtering time of the ZnO sacrificial shell layer affected the surface morphology and crystal defects of the ZnS/WO3 composite materials. The formation of tight heterojunction interfaces and an appropriate number of heterojunctions enhanced the transport of charge carriers, resulting in improved photocatalytic efficiency. Compared to pristine WO3 nanoplates, the ZnS/WO3 (WZS) series composite materials showed superior photoelectrochemical properties. The WZS350 composite sample with 3.1 at% Zn and 3.3 at% S was identified as the best photocatalyst. The experimental results of this study demonstrate that WO3 nanoplates with appropriate ZnS particle modification can effectively regulate their surface photosensitivity, offering a promising approach for the application of photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of antibiotics in water has resulted in significant environmental contamination, posing potential health risks. This necessitates the development of efficient methods for their removal from wastewater. This review explores the potential of UiO (Universitetet i Oslo) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for the adsorption of dyes and pharmaceuticals from water. UiO MOFs possess exceptional characteristics, including ultra-high porosity and remarkable stability, making them ideal candidates for pollutant adsorption compared to traditional adsorbents. Studies have demonstrated the exceptional performance of UiO MOFs in removing antibiotics from water at various concentrations. This high adsorption efficiency is attributed to their extensive Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area and pore volume, offering numerous binding sites for pollutants. The adsorption affinity between UiO MOFs and antibiotics is governed by various interactions, such as electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and π–π stacking. These interactions are influenced by the surface charge of the target pollutant and the zeta potential of the MOF surface. Furthermore, the detection mechanisms for antibiotics including, fluorescence quenching, photocatalytic degradation, adsorption, sensing, and other methods, are discussed in this review. Overall, this review emphasizes the promising potential of UiO MOFs as efficient adsorbents for removing antibiotics from water, offering a viable solution for environmental cleanup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laccase is an enzyme known for its eco-friendly uses in environmental cleanup and biotechnology. However, it has limitations such as low stability, high cost, and complex recycling. So, there is a need for laccase mimics that can effectively imitate its properties. Herein, we created copper formate–lysine nanoparticles (Cuf-Lys) that mimic laccase's activity. The developed Cuf-Lys demonstrated remarkable polyphenol oxidase-like activity, stability, and recyclability, making them suitable for the fabrication of efficient colorimetric sensors for the detection of epinephrine. These sensors had a specific response and could accurately measure epinephrine concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 50 μM, with a detection limit as low as 1 μM. Furthermore, the biosensor demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity when applied to the detection of rutin. The limit of detection for rutin was determined to be 0.16 μM while in the linear concentration range of 0.25 to 150.0 μM. We believe that Cuf-Lys provide a new route for the design of laccase mimics, showing potential applications for biomedical diagnosis and environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes the synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic evaluation of a polypyrrole-reinforced zinc-nickel mixed metal ferrite (PPy@ Zn 0.5 Ni 0.5 Fe 2 O 4) nanohybrid. A facile hydrothermal process is employed to synthesize the nanostructured zinc-nickel mixed metal ferrite (ZNF), and in situ oxidative polymerization is utilized to create the PPy nanohybrid. In this nanohybrid, PPy plays multiple roles: preventing charge recombination, reducing photocorrosion, mitigating particle aggregation in ZNF, and enhancing charge transfer and visible light absorption. The combined electron-capturing ability, intrinsic conductivity, and extensive π-conjugation of PPy, along with the magnetic nature of ZNF, render the PPy@ZNF catalyst highly efficient. The results of photoluminescence, impedance, and UV/Vis analysis confirm that PPy plays a critical role in enhancing photocatalytic performance by facilitating charge transfer and extending visible-light absorption. In practical environmental applications, the PPy@ZNF nanohybrid demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity compared to ZNF alone, degrading 98.5 % of malachite green dye under W-lamp light within 80 min, with a rate constant of 0.031 min−1. Scavenger and cyclic experiments identified the active species involved in dye degradation and assessed the reusability of the nanohybrid. Extensive testing revealed the optimal conditions for photocatalytic efficiency; the considered variables included light intensity, catalyst dose, dye concentration, temperature, irradiation time, and pH. These findings suggest that the PPy-reinforced ZNF nanohybrid offers cost-effectiveness, magnetic recoverability, structural stability, and high efficacy as a visible light-driven catalyst, making it a promising candidate for diverse environmental remediation applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles with a usual diameter ranging from ~ 1 μ to 5 µm. Recently, microplastic pollution has raised the attention of the worldwide environmental and human concerns. In human beings, digestive system illness, respiratory system disorders, sleep disturbances, obesity, diabetes, and even cancer have been reported after microplastic exposure either through food, air, or skin. Similarly, microplastics are also having negative impacts on the plant health, soil microorganisms, aquatic lives, and other animals. Policies and initiatives have already been in the pipeline to address this problem to deal with microplastic pollution. However, many obstacles are also being observed such as lack of knowledge, lack of research, and also absence of regulatory frameworks. This article has covered the distribution of microplastics in water, soil, food and air. Application of multimodel strategies including fewer plastic item consumption, developing low-cost novel technologies using microorganisms, biofilm, and genetic modified microorganisms has been used to reduce microplastics from the environment. Researchers, academician, policy-makers, and environmentalists should work jointly to cope up with microplastic contamination and their effect on the ecosystem as a whole which can be reduced in the coming years and also to make earth clean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination poses an escalating global challenge to soil ecosystems, with hyperaccumulators playing a crucial role in environmental remediation and resource recovery. The enrichment of diazotrophs and resulting nitrogen accumulation promoted hyperaccumulator growth and facilitated phytoremediation. Nonetheless, the regulatory mechanism of hyperaccumulator biological nitrogen fixation has remained elusive. Here, we report the mechanism by which arsenic regulates biological nitrogen fixation in the arsenic-hyperaccumulator Pteris vittata. Field investigations and greenhouse experiments, based on multi-omics approaches, reveal that elevated arsenic stress induces an enrichment of key diazotrophs, enhances plant nitrogen acquisition, and thus improves plant growth. Metabolomic analysis and microfluidic experiments further demonstrate that the upregulation of specific root metabolites plays a crucial role in recruiting key diazotrophic bacteria. These findings highlight the pivotal role of nitrogen-acquisition mechanisms in the arsenic hyperaccumulation of Pteris vittata, and provide valuable insights into the plant stress resistance. Elevated arsenic is found to enhance plant nitrogen acquisition and plant growth of the arsenic hyperaccumulator Pteris vittate. Multi-omics analysis reveals the interaction between root metabolites and key diazotrophs underlying this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a comprehensive systematic review was conducted to better recognize the applicability of graphene-based photocatalytic processes for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) from water. A broad search strategy was developed for English language articles available in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The effect of parameters such as pH, TC concentration, photocatalyst dose, radiation source intensity, and the effect of graphene on the process, kinetics, and reuse of the photocatalyst were investigated. A total of 63 out of a possible 3498 retrieved records met inclusion criteria. The results showed that most related studies have increased since 2019. About 46.7% of the articles showed 90–100% TC removal efficiency and 59.52% of the studies had optimal pH equal to 5 and 6. Also, the widespread use of visible light had a significant trend. The effect of the dose of graphene in the catalyst was one of the most important and effective factors on the process; hence, the difference in efficiency with and without graphene was completely evident. This review indicated that the presence of graphene has been able to have a positive effect on increasing the efficiency of oxidation processes, and it can be used for environmental pollutants remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its widespread use and incomplete breakdown in the human body, amoxicillin has been detected in receiving water bodies. This raises significant concerns, like the promotion of antibiotic resistance, toxicity towards aquatic life, disruption of the natural balance of microbial communities within these water bodies, and the struggle of effectively removal by the traditional wastewater treatment plants. Consequently, exploring new processes to complement the existing methods is crucial. Adsorption, a promising highly efficient, selective, and versatile technique, can effectively remove contaminants, making it useful in various industries such as water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and environmental remediation. Several adsorbents are documented in the literature for drug adsorption; however, their fabrication often involves more complex steps and substances compared to chitosan and alginate, which are natural polymers that are biocompatible, non-toxic, and biodegradable. Their tunable properties and ease of modification enhance their efficacy in environmental remediation. Therefore, the novelty of this article is to understand the interaction of amoxicillin with chitosan and alginate adsorbents easily synthetized using the dripping technique. This approach allows us to explore basic principles that can be applied to more complex systems in future studies. The optimal pH for both beads was found to be 4, with adsorption capacities of 74.2 ± 0.3 mg g−1 for alginate and 80.4 ± 0.2 mg g−1 for chitosan, using 1 g of adsorbent. Kinetics studies indicated that external diffusion governs adsorption for alginate, while internal diffusion governs adsorption for chitosan. This approach underscores the potential of chitosan and alginate beads as effective adsorbents for mitigating antibiotic contamination in water systems, offering a sustainable complement to traditional treatment methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning technology has demonstrated extensive applications in biomedical engineering, energy storage, and environmental remediation. However, its utilization in the cosmetic industry remains relatively underexplored. To address the challenges associated with skin damage caused by preservatives and thickeners used for extending the shelf life of conventional products, a soothing lavender-scented electrospun fibrous eye mask with coaxial layers was developed using the electrospinning technique. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) served as the hydrophilic outer sheath, while polycaprolactone (PCL) constituted the hydrophobic core, with lavender oil (LO) encapsulated within. The structural and physicochemical properties of the samples were characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and contact angle measurements. Upon hydration, the fibrous membrane exhibited strong adhesion properties, notable antioxidant activity, and a degree of antibacterial efficacy, demonstrating its potential for safe and effective use in skincare and eye mask applications. These findings suggest that the developed electrospun material offers promising functional properties and functional properties for integration into cosmetic formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]