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Complex formulations based on poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-valerate) (PHBV) were studied to statistically assess the effect of formulation (i.e., hydroxyvalerate (HV) content, plasticiser chemistry and content, filler type and content) on their thermal properties and degree of crystallinity (Xc). In binary systems, thermal properties were mainly influenced by filler type rather than its content, while for plasticised systems the changes were dependent on both increasing plasticiser content and PHB-plasticiser compatibility. Variations in HV content affected the ability of the polymer chain to fold, leading to significant changes in both thermal properties and Xc. In ternary systems, presence of multiple additives and consequent changes in intermolecular interactions lead to multifaceted behaviours that were not easily predicted by results from binary systems alone. For example, melting temperature did not show dependence on filler presence in PHBV systems despite introducing variations in pure PHB systems. In general, thermal properties and Xc are affected by all parameters studied, with changes in system free volume (i.e. changes in HV content and plasticisation) playing the most significant role. These results expand the understanding of factors controlling crystallisation in complex polymer systems and can be used to control matrix properties in new generations of packaging materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to characterise the surface properties of chicken breasts, and evaluate the wettability properties of edible coatings based on carrageenan and glycerol, using varying concentrations of the biopolymer and plasticiser. The surface of the chicken breasts was characterised as of low energy, with a surface tension of 54.56 mN/m, whose polar and dispersive components were 39.79 mN/m and 14.77 mN/m, respectively. The results showed that with an increase in the carrageenan concentration of the film-forming solution there was a reduction in the values for adhesion and spreading. Coatings with a higher glycerol concentration also obtained a lower spreading coefficient. Solutions 1 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 0%), 2 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 1%) and 3 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 2%) did not differ statistically, obtaining the highest values for spreadability. Solution 1 (carrageenan 1% and 0% glycerol) presented the highest numerical values. For carrageenan coatings on chicken breasts, the best spreading coefficient was -4.49 mN/m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to characterise the surface properties of chicken breasts, and evaluate the wettability properties of edible coatings based on carrageenan and glycerol, using varying concentrations of the biopolymer and plasticiser. The surface of the chicken breasts was characterised as of low energy, with a surface tension of 54.56 mN/m, whose polar and dispersive components were 39.79 mN/m and 14.77 mN/m, respectively. The results showed that with an increase in the carrageenan concentration of the film-forming solution there was a reduction in the values for adhesion and spreading. Coatings with a higher glycerol concentration also obtained a lower spreading coefficient. Solutions 1 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 0%), 2 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 1%) and 3 (carrageenan 1% and glycerol 2%) did not differ statistically, obtaining the highest values for spreadability. Solution 1 (carrageenan 1% and 0% glycerol) presented the highest numerical values. For carrageenan coatings on chicken breasts, the best spreading coefficient was -4.49 mN/m.

The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP) assessed the safety of poly(2‐hydroxypropanoic acid), n‐octyl/n‐decyl esters (OLA8), which is intended to be used as a plasticiser into polylactic acid (PLA) in contact with non‐fatty foods. OLA8 is intended to be used at up to 5% and 15% w/w with or without starch, respectively (or with other additives with similar function). The migration for 10 days at 40°C from the film without starch was 0.16 mg/kg in 10% ethanol and 0.01 mg/kg in 3% acetic acid, while from the film with the starch it was well above 0.05 mg/kg food in all simulants. Some of the testing conditions were inconsistently reported. The substance did not induce gene mutations in bacterial cells and did not induce structural chromosomal aberrations or polyploidy in mammalian cells, thus, does not raise concern for genotoxicity. Instead of providing a 90‐day oral toxicity study, a hydrolysis study in ■■■■■ was submitted to read‐across from the authorised starting substances, ■■■■■ and the ■■■■■. However, the data provided did not allow to perform the read‐across, thus no appropriate toxicological data were provided to support migration above 0.05 mg/kg food (including for contact with 10% ethanol and use in combination with starch). The Panel concluded that OLA8 does not raise a safety concern for the consumer if it is used as an additive at up to 15% w/w in the manufacture of PLA articles that do not contain starch (and other additives with similar function), that are intended to be in contact for 10 days at 40°C with foods simulated by 3% acetic acid and from which the migration does not exceed 0.05 mg/kg food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the effects of 0.5-2% iron and manganese oxide-modified biochar (FM) as remediation to control di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in the soil and the response of wheat at different growth stages. The application of FM and original biochar (BC) significantly reduced DEHP concentrations in wheat roots and leaves and effectively immobilised DEHP in soils at different stages, and alleviated the oxidative damage of DEHP by significantly reducing O2- and H2O2 content and increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase. Moreover, photosynthetic parameters (stomatal conductance, intercellular carbon dioxide concentration, photosynthetic rate, and transpiration rate) and fluorescence indicators (maximum photochemical efficiency, electron transport rate, and actual quantum yield) of the wheat growing in DEHP-spiked soils were also improved, which caused increases in the biomass of above-ground and underground at the seedling, booting, and ripening stages. Compared to BC, the FM amendment led to a greater improvement in crop biomass by reducing DEHP bioavailability. Therefore, FM has a good potential for the remediation of DEHP-polluted soils.

Introduction: A physiologically based biokinetic model for di (2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) based on a refined model for di-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP) was developed to interpret the metabolism and biokinetics of DEHA following a single oral dosage of 50 mg to two male and two female volunteers. Methods: The model was parameterized using in vitro and in silico methods such as, measured intrinsic hepatic clearance scaled from in vitro to in vivo and algorithmically predicted parameters such as plasma unbound fraction and tissue:blood partition coefficients (PCs). Calibration of the DEHA model was achieved using concentrations of specific downstream metabolites of DEHA excreted in urine. The total fractions of ingested DEHA eliminated as specific metabolites were estimated and were sufficient for interpreting the human biomonitoring data. Results: The specific metabolites of DEHA, mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl adipate (5OH-MEHA), mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl adipate (5oxo-MEHA), mono5-carboxy-2-ethylpentyl adipate (5cx-MEPA) only accounted for ~0.45% of the ingested DEHA. Importantly, the measurements of adipic acid, a non-specific metabolite of DEHA, proved to be important in model calibration. Discussion: The very prominent trends in the urinary excretion of the metabolites, 5cx-MEPA and 5OH-MEHA allowed the important absorption mechanisms of DEHA to be modelled. The model should be useful for the study of exposure to DEHA of the general human population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymers are fourth generation packaging materials. Due to the shortcomings of the petrochemical‐based polymers and their threat to the environment, biopolymers are seen as the sustainable substitute for traditional synthetic polymers and have attracted the researchers towards the development of biopolymer‐based packaging materials. However, biopolymers suffer from flaws like inferior mechanical strength and thermal stability, which poses its inability to use at industrial scale. The recent studies thus highlighted the different modification methods such as reactive or nonreactive compatibilisation to conquer such issues. The present article recapitulates the various biopolymers developed in the recent past, modification methods for their processing and their packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing Aids (CEP) assessed the safety of poly(2‐hydroxypropanoic acid), n‐octyl/n‐decyl esters (OLA8), which is intended to be used as a plasticiser into polylactic acid (PLA) in contact with non‐fatty foods. OLA8 is intended to be used at up to 5% and 15% w/w with or without starch, respectively (or with other additives with similar function). The migration for 10 days at 40°C from the film without starch was 0.16 mg/kg in 10% ethanol and 0.01 mg/kg in 3% acetic acid, while from the film with the starch it was well above 0.05 mg/kg food in all simulants. Some of the testing conditions were inconsistently reported. The substance did not induce gene mutations in bacterial cells and did not induce structural chromosomal aberrations or polyploidy in mammalian cells, thus, does not raise concern for genotoxicity. Instead of providing a 90‐day oral toxicity study, a hydrolysis study in ■■■■■ was submitted to read‐across from the authorised starting substances, ■■■■■ and the ■■■■■. However, the data provided did not allow to perform the read‐across, thus no appropriate toxicological data were provided to support migration above 0.05 mg/kg food (including for contact with 10% ethanol and use in combination with starch). The Panel concluded that OLA8 does not raise a safety concern for the consumer if it is used as an additive at up to 15% w/w in the manufacture of PLA articles that do not contain starch (and other additives with similar function), that are intended to be in contact for 10 days at 40°C with foods simulated by 3% acetic acid and from which the migration does not exceed 0.05 mg/kg food.

• The toxic impacts of DEP on Dugesia sp. are tested. • Planarian behavior alters at ½ LC 50 (178.62 µM) of DEP. • DEP exposure delays regeneration and reduces AChE activity. • DEP exposure at ½ LC 50 causes oxidative damage. Diethyl phthalate (DEP) has been widely used as a plasticiser in various consumer products, including cosmetics, personal care items, and pharmaceuticals, and recent studies reported a higher abundance of this priority phthalate in the aquatic environment. DEP is a potential endocrine disruptor, affecting immune systems in humans and wildlife even at low-level chronic exposure. As concern over phthalates increases globally, regulatory bodies focus more on their environmental impact. However, limited research is available, particularly using model organisms like planarians. Planarians are ideal for toxicological studies and may provide insightful information on pollutants' neurotoxic, developmental, and ecological effects, especially in freshwater environments where planarians play a vital role in ecosystem balance. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to examine the toxicity of DEP using the freshwater Dugesia sp. , as an experimental animal. The LC 50 for the test organism was calculated using DEP concentrations of 800, 400, 200, 100, and 50 µM, with an estimated LC 50 of 357.24 µM. Furthermore, planarians were exposed to sub-lethal DEP concentration (178.62 µM) for one day as well as eight days to evaluate the impact of DEP on planarian locomotion, feeding behaviour, and regeneration ability. At sub-lethal concentration, locomotion and feeding ability were decreased, and regeneration was delayed. Furthermore, neuro-transmittance in planaria was altered by sub-lethal DEP concentration, as indicated by a reduced acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. DEP exposure induced oxidative damage in the tested planarians as shown by a marked increase in stress biomarkers, including lipid peroxidation levels and antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Our study revealed that DEP exposure may prove fatal to freshwater organisms, such as planarians. The observed alterations in behaviour and regeneration ability demonstrate the severity of the effects exerted by DEP as a toxicant in aquatic ecosystems, thereby indicating the need to restrict its usage to protect aquatic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a simple modelling method that accurately describes the time-dependent viscoelastic behaviour of thermoplastic and thermosetting solid polymers. We performed short-term creep and stress relaxation tests on representative samples of three major classes of polymers: an amorphous, a semi-crystalline thermoplastic and a thermosetting polymer. Then, to investigate the relationship between the model parameters and the material composition, we also tested thermoplastic matrix composites with different plasticiser contents. From the short-term tests, master curves were constructed with the use of the time–temperature superposition principle. Then, the temperature dependence of the obtained shift factors was described using the Arrhenius model. The resulting creep compliance and relaxation modulus master curves were normalised and modelled with a two-parameter cumulative Gumbel distribution function (CDF) and its complementary distribution function (CCDF). For the creep and stress relaxation master curves, the median error of modelling was less than 16 % and 16.5 % in all cases, respectively. Furthermore, it was less than 2 % for the thermosetting polymer, making this model an excellent tool for describing the creep and stress relaxation behaviour of thermosetting systems. In the case of the plasticised composites, we found a strong relationship between the material composition and the location parameter of the Gumbel model. Based on this, we developed a method that can be used to estimate the evolution of the creep compliance curve for any arbitrary OLA content (between 0 wt% and 16 wt%) at any desired temperature (between 22 °C and 70 °C). [Display omitted] • Long-term viscoelastic behaviour can be modelled with Gumbel distribution function. • The location parameter of the model can be related to the material composition. • The median error for creep over 32 years was less than 2 % for the tested thermoset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A physiologically based biokinetic model for di (2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) based on a refined model for di-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP) was developed to interpret the metabolism and biokinetics of DEHA following a single oral dosage of 50 mg to two male and two female volunteers.Methods: The model was parameterized using in vitro and in silico methods such as, measured intrinsic hepatic clearance scaled from in vitro to in vivo and algorithmically predicted parameters such as plasma unbound fraction and tissue:blood partition coefficients (PCs). Calibration of the DEHA model was achieved using concentrations of specific downstream metabolites of DEHA excreted in urine. The total fractions of ingested DEHA eliminated as specific metabolites were estimated and were sufficient for interpreting the human biomonitoring data.Results: The specific metabolites of DEHA, mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl adipate (5OH-MEHA), mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl adipate (5oxo-MEHA), mono-5-carboxy-2-ethylpentyl adipate (5cx-MEPA) only accounted for ∼0.45% of the ingested DEHA. Importantly, the measurements of adipic acid, a non-specific metabolite of DEHA, proved to be important in model calibration.Discussion: The very prominent trends in the urinary excretion of the metabolites, 5cx-MEPA and 5OH-MEHA allowed the important absorption mechanisms of DEHA to be modelled. The model should be useful for the study of exposure to DEHA of the general human population.

An existing physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for Di-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP) was refined to improve the simulations of the venous blood concentrations of the primary monoester metabolite, mono-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (MPHP). This was considered a significant deficiency that should be addressed because the primary metabolite of other high molecular weight phthalates has been associated with toxicity. The various processes that influence the concentration of DPHP and MPHP in blood were re-evaluated and modified. A few simplifications of the existing model were made, including the removal of enterohepatic recirculation (EHR) of MPHP. However, the primary development was describing the partial binding of MPHP to plasma proteins following uptake of DPHP and metabolism in the gut affording better simulation of the trends observed in the biological monitoring data. Secondly, the relationship between blood concentrations and the urinary excretion of secondary metabolites was explored further because the availability of two data streams provides a better understanding of the kinetics than reliance on just one. Most human studies are conducted with few volunteers and generally with the absence of blood metabolite measurements which would likely imply an incomplete understanding of the kinetics. This has important implications for the “read across” approach proposed as part of the development of New Approach Methods for the replacement of animals in chemical safety assessments. This is where the endpoint of a target chemical is predicted by using data for the same endpoint from another more “data rich” source chemical. Validation of a model parameterized entirely with in vitro and in silico derived parameters and calibrated against several data streams would constitute a data rich source chemical and afford more confidence for future evaluations of other similar chemicals using the read-across approach.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of adding polyethylene to thermoplastic sago starch in the presence of a coupling agent (polyethylene grafting maleate anhydrate) on the degradation rate, morphology, thermal gravimetry, and differential thermal analysis. The compound of thermoplastic sago starch/polyethylene/polyethylene grafting Maleic Anhydrous was carried out using the mixing method in an internal mixer. Based on the results of the study, there was a shift in the wave number in the O-H, C-H, and CH2 groups in bioplastic composites. The surface morphology showed that the dispersed phase (Polyethylene) was evenly distributed over the entire surface of the matrix (sago starch). The gravimetric analysis of the thermal curves shows that the thermal degradation occurs in three stages: 2010C, 3500C, and 5000C. The addition of polyethylene can increase the thermal resistance from 3500C to 6000C. It can be seen that there are endothermic and exothermic peaks on the Thermal Differential Analysis curve. The addition of polyethylene resulted in a decrease in the rate of degradation in freshwater, seawater, and soil burial media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development favours integration between different sectors to facilitate effective utilisation of natural resources. In this regard, the objective of this work was to investigate the use, in the building industry, of the following two components derived from cow milk that is unfit for human consumption: a biodegradable release agent composed of milk fat and used soybean oil; and cementitious mortar composed of a biodegradable admixture of protein complexes (whey and κ-casein). Scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy analyses were performed to examine the morphology and chemical structure/curing process of the materials, respectively. Finally, the results were used to demonstrate that the products obtained from milk waste are viable for use in cementitious compounds. It was observed that the bio-release agent aided the demoulding process of the specimens in both moulds and did not decrease the compressive strength of the specimens. As regards the biopolymer, an increase in the compressive strength of the samples was observed at all ages, thus indicating a positive effect compared with that of commercial plasticisers in the 90-day samples.

Summary: Ternary blend of gum acacia/pectin/pullulan (GPPL) polysaccharide composite film was prepared using solution casting technique with the addition of different ratios of glycerol and sorbitol to increase plasticiser—polysaccharide interactions. The results showed that the film thickness, water contact angle, moisture content, solubility, tensile strength, elongation and anti‐microbial properties were in good agreement with already reported films in the literature. Composite film solution was used as a coating solution to improve the shelf‐life of ivy gourd (Coccinia indica). Weight loss, titrable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), anti‐oxidant, total phenolic content (TPC) and storage time were measured to check the efficiency of the coating solution. The obtained data shows a 35% increase in the shelf‐life of the ivy gourd during the storage period of 23 days. The anti‐microbial test showed that the prepared film/coating is more resistant against Pseudomonas aeruginosa due to the presence of pullulan. Therefore, our coating shows a significant increase in shelf‐life of ivy gourd up to 23 days of storage time. Thus, the prepared polysaccharide composite films in this study may be suitable for food packaging applications whereas the composite film solution can be used to improve the shelf‐life of various food products in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol S (BPS) affects terminal folliculogenesis by impairing steroidogenesis in granulosa cells from different species. Nevertheless, limited data are available on its effects during basal folliculogenesis. In this study, we evaluate in vitro the effects of a long-term BPS exposure on a model of basal follicular development in a mono-ovulatory species. We cultured ovine preantral follicles (180–240 μm, n = 168) with BPS (0.1 μM (possible human exposure dose) or 10 μM (high dose)) and monitored antrum appearance and follicular survival and growth for 15 days. We measured hormonal secretions (oestradiol (at day 13 [D13]), progesterone and anti-Müllerian hormone [D15]) and expression of key follicular development and redox status genes (D15) in medium and whole follicles, respectively. BPS (0.1 µM) decreased oestradiol secretion compared with the control (−48.8%, p < 0.001), without significantly impairing antrum appearance, follicular survival and growth, anti-Müllerian hormone and progesterone secretion and target gene expression. Thus, BPS could also impair oestradiol secretion during basal folliculogenesis as it is the case during terminal folliculogenesis. It questions the use of BPS as a safe BPA substitute in the human environment. More studies are required to elucidate mechanisms of action of BPS and its effects throughout basal follicular development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to study the effects of different plasticisers [glycerol (G), propylene glycol (PG), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400)] at different contents (10-30% compared to hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)) on the properties of HPMC/shellac composite films. Sensory, mechanical properties, and surface morphology were used to evaluate changes in the composite films by adding different plasticisers. The results showed that with the addition of plasticisers, the films became more transparent and flexible. As the plasticiser content increased, the tensile strength and elastic modulus of the films decreased. At a plasticiser content of 20%, the water vapor permeability (WVP) of the composite films reached its minimum value. The SEM images showed that the HPMC/shellac composite film containing 20% G had the smoothest surface, and the components of this film were uniformly distributed.

Biodegradable polymers such as poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and polycaprolactone (PCL) blends are considered as potential replacements for non‐degradable polymers, however, their brittleness is an obstacle for their full realization in biomedicine and food packaging. Here, new biodegradable plasticizers are developed to improve the physicochemical properties of PHB and PCL blends. These plasticizers are synthesized through a one‐step random copolymerization process using different mass ratios (1:1, 2:1, 1:2) of β‐butyrolactone (HB) and ε‐caprolactone (CL) monomers. Plasticizer with larger content of CL segments (1:2) shows a thermal stability higher than other ratios. The addition of plasticizers to PHB/PCL blends enhances the elongation at the break of PHB50/PCL50 blend at least 4 to 6‐fold compared to pure PHB. This process also decreases the melting point and crystallization of PHB/PCL blends which are pivotal for thermal processing, such as extrusion, while no adverse impact on the tensile strength and elastic modulus of blends was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enhancement of the PLA thermomechanical properties is significant due to its suitability as a replacement for primary synthetic polymer use in diverse industrial production. The amphiphilic chitin was used as a compatibilizer in PLA/starch biocomposite. The properties of plasticised polylactic acid blended with starch, and amphiphilic chitin was studied for enhanced thermomechanical and viscoelastic properties. Chitin was modified using acetylated substitution reaction and blended with plasticised PLA/starch biocomposite. The biocomposite was prepared with combined compression and melt extrusion techniques. The biocomposite's thermomechanical, thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties were studied using dynamic mechanical analysis, TGA-DSC, tensile test, and scanning electron microscopy. The storage and loss modulus were significantly enhanced with increased amphiphilic chitin content. Similarly, the single peak of tan delta showed good miscibility of the polymeric blend. Additionally, the modulus increases with frequency change from 1 Hz to 10 Hz. The thermal stability of the biocomposite was observed to be lower than the neat PLA. The tensile properties of the biocomposite increased significantly more than the neat PLA, with P4S4C having the highest tensile strength and modulus of 87 MPa and 7600 MPa. The SEM images show good miscibility with no significant void in the fractured surface. The viscoelastic properties of PLA were enhanced considerably with plasticizer and amphiphilic chitin with improved biodegradability. The properties of the biocomposite can be adapted for various industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Global plastic production has increased exponentially since manufacturing commenced in the 1950’s, including polymer types infused with diverse additives and fillers. While the negative impacts of plastics are widely reported, particularly on marine vertebrates, impacts on microbial life remain poorly understood. Plastics impact microbiomes directly, exerting toxic effects, providing supplemental carbon sources and acting as rafts for microbial colonisation and dispersal. Indirect consequences include increased environmental shading, altered compositions of host communities and disruption of host organism or community health, hormone balances and immune responses. The isolation and application of plastic-degrading microbes are of substantial interest yet little evidence supports the microbial biodegradation of most high molecular weight synthetic polymers. Over 400 microbial species have been presumptively identified as capable of plastic degradation, but evidence for the degradation of highly prevalent polymers including polypropylene, nylon, polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride must be treated with caution; most studies fail to differentiate losses caused by the leaching or degradation of polymer monomers, additives or fillers. Even where polymer degradation is demonstrated, such as for polyethylene terephthalate, the ability of microorganisms to degrade more highly crystalline forms of the polymer used in commercial plastics appears limited. Microbiomes frequently work in conjunction with abiotic factors such as heat and light to impact the structural integrity of polymers and accessibility to enzymatic attack. Consequently, there remains much scope for extremophile microbiomes to be explored as a source of plastic-degrading enzymes and microorganisms. We propose a best-practice workflow for isolating and reporting plastic-degrading taxa from diverse environmental microbiomes, which should include multiple lines of evidence supporting changes in polymer structure, mass loss, and detection of presumed degradation products, along with confirmation of microbial strains and enzymes (and their associated genes) responsible for high molecular weight plastic polymer degradation. Such approaches are necessary for enzymatic degraders of high molecular weight plastic polymers to be differentiated from organisms only capable of degrading the more labile carbon within predominantly amorphous plastics, plastic monomers, additives or fillers.

A bioactive and non-toxic biopolymer-based electrolyte has gained attention in recent research for their potential applications in the fabrication of electrochemical devices. In this work, we extracted the chitosan successfully prepared from shrimp shells using Brine's method. The solid polymer electrolyte comprising the blend of chitosan and agar–agar, plasticised with polyethylene glycol (PEG), as host polymer and lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) as a dopant is prepared by solution casting technique. Also, the effect of different weight percentage of the plasticiser PEG at a fixed ratio of perchlorate content is investigated. The obtained chitosan blended film is highly suitable as a electrolyte for electrochemical devices. The prepared polymer electrolyte is characterised using attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR–FTIR), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR–SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The ATR–FTIR spectroscopy confirms the presence of particular functional groups present in chitosan and complex formation between blended polymers and lithium perchlorate. The surface morphology and amorphous crystallinity of chitosan and blended polymer electrolytes revealed from HR–SEM and XRD analysis. The ionic conductivity of the prepared materials is studied using AC impedance spectroscopy and compared. The highest ionic conductivity at room temperature obtained for the sample is 4.56 × 10−4 Scm−1 (CAP3). The mechanical properties of films have been studied using a Universal testing machine analysis. Wagner's polarisation measurements have estimated the Li+ transport numbers of SPEs. Linear sweep voltammetry was performed on half-cell method to study the electrochemical stability window of the maximum ionic conductivity of SPEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development favours integration between different sectors to facilitate effective utilisation of natural resources. In this regard, the objective of this work was to investigate the use, in the building industry, of the following two components derived from cow milk that is unfit for human consumption: a biodegradable release agent composed of milk fat and used soybean oil; and cementitious mortar composed of a biodegradable admixture of protein complexes (whey and κ-casein). Scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy analyses were performed to examine the morphology and chemical structure/curing process of the materials, respectively. Finally, the results were used to demonstrate that the products obtained from milk waste are viable for use in cementitious compounds. It was observed that the bio-release agent aided the demoulding process of the specimens in both moulds and did not decrease the compressive strength of the specimens. As regards the biopolymer, an increase in the compressive strength of the samples was observed at all ages, thus indicating a positive effect compared with that of commercial plasticisers in the 90-day samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although tea is often considered a healthy drink, there is the possibility for it to contain bisphenol A and phthalates. This project was designed to quantitate the amount of these compounds when tea was prepared in a variety of conditions, and with a variety of different brands and flavours. BPA and phthalates were extracted using solid phase extraction and quantitated using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry. The leaching concentration of di-n-butyl phthalate, a major phthalate in dry tea samples, increased with respect to both brewing time and temperature at rates of 5.9 ng/g/min and 2.3 ng/g/°C, respectively. Loose leaf green teas showed lower concentrations of contaminants than bagged teas. The highest concentrations found of all compounds were for benzylbutyl phthalate in both Brand2 English breakfast and Brand2 green teas with concentrations of 244 ± 76 ng/g and 197 ± 9 ng/g, respectively. Di-n-butyl phthalate, benzylbutyl phthalate and bis-2-ethylhexyl phthalate were all present in concentrations of 50 ng/g or more in 3 or more samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for Di-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP) was developed to interpret the biokinetics in humans after single oral doses. The model was parameterized with in vitro and in silico derived parameters and uncertainty and sensitivity analysis was used during the model development process to assess structure, biological plausibility and behaviour prior to simulation and analysis of human biological monitoring data. To provide possible explanations for some of the counter-intuitive behaviour of the biological monitoring data the model included a simple lymphatic uptake process for DPHP and enterohepatic recirculation (EHR) for DPHP and the mono ester metabolite mono-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (MPHP). The model was used to simultaneously simulate the concentration-time profiles of blood DPHP, MPHP and the urinary excretion of two metabolites, mono-(2-propyl-6-hydroxyheptyl) phthalate (OH-MPHP) and mono-(2-propyl-6-carboxyhexyl) phthalate (cx-MPHP). The availability of blood and urine measurements permitted a more robust qualitative and quantitative investigation of the importance of EHR and lymphatic uptake. Satisfactory prediction of blood DPHP and urinary metabolites was obtained whereas blood MPHP was less satisfactory. However, the delayed peak of DPHP concentration relative to MPHP in blood and second order metabolites in urine could be explained as a result of three processes: 1) DPHP entering the systemic circulation from the lymph, 2) rapid and very high protein binding and 3) the efficiency of the liver in removing DPHP absorbed via the hepatic route. The use of sensitivity analysis is considered important in the evaluation of uncertainty around in vitro and in silico derived parameters. By quantifying their impact on model output sufficient confidence in the use of a model should be afforded. This approach could expand the use of PBPK models since parameterization with in silico techniques allows for rapid model development. This in turn could assist in reducing the use of animals in toxicological evaluations by enhancing the utility of “read across” techniques.

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for Di-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (DPHP) was developed to interpret the biokinetics in humans after single oral doses. The model was parameterized with in vitro and in silico derived parameters and uncertainty and sensitivity analysis was used during the model development process to assess structure, biological plausibility and behaviour prior to simulation and analysis of human biological monitoring data. To provide possible explanations for some of the counter-intuitive behaviour of the biological monitoring data the model included a simple lymphatic uptake process for DPHP and enterohepatic recirculation (EHR) for DPHP and the mono ester metabolite mono-(2-propylheptyl) phthalate (MPHP). The model was used to simultaneously simulate the concentration-time profiles of blood DPHP, MPHP and the urinary excretion of two metabolites, mono-(2-propyl-6-hydroxyheptyl) phthalate (OH-MPHP) and mono-(2-propyl-6-carboxyhexyl) phthalate (cx-MPHP). The availability of blood and urine measurements permitted a more robust qualitative and quantitative investigation of the importance of EHR and lymphatic uptake. Satisfactory prediction of blood DPHP and urinary metabolites was obtained whereas blood MPHP was less satisfactory. However, the delayed peak of DPHP concentration relative to MPHP in blood and second order metabolites in urine could be explained as a result of three processes: 1) DPHP entering the systemic circulation from the lymph, 2) rapid and very high protein binding and 3) the efficiency of the liver in removing DPHP absorbed via the hepatic route. The use of sensitivity analysis is considered important in the evaluation of uncertainty around in vitro and in silico derived parameters. By quantifying their impact on model output sufficient confidence in the use of a model should be afforded. This approach could expand the use of PBPK models since parameterization with in silico techniques allows for rapid model development. This in turn could assist in reducing the use of animals in toxicological evaluations by enhancing the utility of "read across" techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thin films designed for ocular use representative a promising frontier in ocular drug delivery. • The crucial role of polymer selection in determining thin film properties. • Natural and synthetic polymer-based films exhibit different swelling and elongation. • Mucoadhesive force in natural polymer films negatively correlates with moisture absorption-to-loss ratio. • Polymers and plasticizers showing an importance in designing and optimizing ocular drug formulations. The ocular thin film presents a potential solution for addressing challenges to ocular drug delivery. In this review, we summarise the findings of a comprehensive review analysing 336 formulations from 68 studies. We investigated the physical and mechanical properties of ocular thin films, categorised into natural polymer-based, synthetic polymer-based, and combined polymer films. The results showed that the type of polymers used impacted mucoadhesion force, moisture absorption:moisture loss ratio, pH, swelling index, and elongation percentage. Significant relationships were found between these properties within each subgroup. The results also highlighted the influence of plasticisers on elongation percentage, mucoadhesion force, swelling index, and moisture absorption:moisture loss ratio. These findings have implications for designing and optimising ocular drug formulations and selecting appropriate plasticisers to achieve formulations with the desired properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the preferential distribution of acetyl tributyl citrate plasticiser (ATBC) in poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) PBAT blends has been investigated. Pure plasticised PLA and PBAT blends and their binary blends (PLA/PBAT with 80 wt% of PLA and 20 wt% of PBAT and PBAT/PLA with 80 wt% of PBAT and 20 wt% of PLA) containing different ATBC amount (from 5 to 20 wt%) have been investigated. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) has been performed in order to evaluate the shift of the glass transition temperature (Tg) in both the polymer systems. The results obtained showed a larger shift for PLA than the PBAT and the calculated plasticiser partition coefficient for both binary blends revealed a preferential distribution of ATBC in the PLA phase rather than PBAT (KA/B = 1.07 for PLA-based system and KA/B = 1.45 for PBAT-based system). The results obtained have also been confirmed by the Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSPs) methodology. The study is finally augmented by the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and morphology analysis in order to demonstrate the possible effects of crystallinity on the plasticiser distribution in the binary blends.

Environmental context: Many human activities cause the release of plastic and associated plasticisers to land, where chemicals may persist for extended periods and be taken up by organisms. However, quantitative information of the terrestrial occurrence, fate and exposure of phthalate and non-phthalate plasticisers is lacking. Research into this field is needed, especially as society moves away from phthalates to the next generation of plasticisers which may themselves represent an emerging risk. Modern society is widely dependent upon plastic. Therefore, it is unsurprising that macro- and microplastic pollution is found in every environmental compartment on earth. Plasticisers are chemicals added to plastics to increase their flexibility. Like plastics themselves, plasticisers are also widely present in the environment. Plasticisers and plastic debris may undergo long-range transport in the atmosphere and the oceans, contaminating even the most remote areas of land. In addition, although plasticisers typically degrade in a matter of weeks–months, they can persist in soil for decades and have been shown to occur in all land uses studied. Some plasticisers are genotoxic and can be taken up by soil organisms, which may pose a risk to ecosystems and human health. To date the majority of data on plasticisers exists for phthalates. However, plasticisers are a diverse range of chemicals and with the increasing transfer to non-phthalate alternatives, research into the fate and effects of emerging plasticisers is required to determine their environmental risk and management options. Data on the occurrence and ecotoxicity of emerging plasticisers, in addition to the impacts of all plasticisers on terrestrial ecosystems, therefore, remain a key research need within the wider plastics debate. Environmental context. Many human activities cause the release of plastic and associated plasticisers to land, where chemicals may persist for extended periods and be taken up by organisms. However, quantitative information of the terrestrial occurrence, fate and exposure of phthalate and non-phthalate plasticisers is lacking. Research into this field is needed, especially as society moves away from phthalates to the next generation of plasticisers which may themselves represent an emerging risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to improve the physicochemical properties of polylactic acid (PLA) and thermoplastic yam starch (TPS) blends using epoxidised sesame oil (ESO). We used epoxidised sesame oil from two Colombian Caribbean crops: Dioscorea rotundata and Sesamum indicum, with an oil substitution of 58.4 %. Films were obtained through extrusion and compression moulding processes. Moisture content, solubility, contact angle, and mechanical, barrier, and structural properties were determined using optical and scanning electron microscopy, infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. Thermal analyses were also performed using thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry techniques. The results suggest that the PLA and TPS interactions can be improved with the addition of ESO as coupling agent, enhancing the interfacial adhesion between the polymers, and favouring the smoothness of the film surface. Furthermore, the ESO addition led to increased thermal stability while restricting molecular mobility, indicating a coupling agent effect. In conclusion, the use of epoxidised oil for preparing films based on high PLA content and TPS allows obtaining enhanced interfacial adhesion. Considering the above, the developed materials have potential application in semi-rigid food packaging.

Global plastic production has increased exponentially since manufacturing commenced in the 1950's, including polymer types infused with diverse additives and fillers. While the negative impacts of plastics are widely reported, particularly on marine vertebrates, impacts on microbial life remain poorly understood. Plastics impact microbiomes directly, exerting toxic effects, providing supplemental carbon sources and acting as rafts for microbial colonisation and dispersal. Indirect consequences include increased environmental shading, altered compositions of host communities and disruption of host organism or community health, hormone balances and immune responses. The isolation and application of plastic-degrading microbes are of substantial interest yet little evidence supports the microbial biodegradation of most high molecular weight synthetic polymers. Over 400 microbial species have been presumptively identified as capable of plastic degradation, but evidence for the degradation of highly prevalent polymers including polypropylene, nylon, polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride must be treated with caution; most studies fail to differentiate losses caused by the leaching or degradation of polymer monomers, additives or fillers. Even where polymer degradation is demonstrated, such as for polyethylene terephthalate, the ability of microorganisms to degrade more highly crystalline forms of the polymer used in commercial plastics appears limited. Microbiomes frequently work in conjunction with abiotic factors such as heat and light to impact the structural integrity of polymers and accessibility to enzymatic attack. Consequently, there remains much scope for extremophile microbiomes to be explored as a source of plastic-degrading enzymes and microorganisms. We propose a best-practice workflow for isolating and reporting plastic-degrading taxa from diverse environmental microbiomes, which should include multiple lines of evidence supporting changes in polymer structure, mass loss, and detection of presumed degradation products, along with confirmation of microbial strains and enzymes (and their associated genes) responsible for high molecular weight plastic polymer degradation. Such approaches are necessary for enzymatic degraders of high molecular weight plastic polymers to be differentiated from organisms only capable of degrading the more labile carbon within predominantly amorphous plastics, plastic monomers, additives or fillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan (CS) film has been regarded as one of the bioresources that shows its ability to conduct proton upon modification. Nonetheless, CS film in nature is brittle and shows extremely high swelling degree towards water, leading to the impractical applications for fuel cell membranes and batteries. Formation of natural polymeric film requires plasticiser to crosslink natural polymers in improving the mechanical strength. Here, we investigate the potential of choline chloride (ChCl) and urea based deep eutectic solvent (DES) as additive in CS film with the aim to improve the mechanical property of the film. In this study, ChCl:urea- based DES was mixed with pure CS solution at different volume ratio and casted into a film. The film will be investigated on the functional groups, water uptake, ionic conductivity, proton exchange capacity and its morphology. Based on the SEM morphology result, it was found that addition of DES improves the homogeneity of the membrane film mainly attributed to the presence of strong bonds between the CS monosaccharides. Besides that, it also contributed towards better plasticising effect of the film that improves the flexibility of the membrane. The addition of DES has further improved the ionic conductivity of CS film from 2.98×10-3 to 1.23×10-2 S/cm; while drastically reduced the water uptake from 698.89 % to 180.67 %.

Summary: Effects of plasticisers (glycerol, sorbitol and polypropylene glycol) and blend ratios on release behaviour, molecular vibration, mechanical and water barrier properties in agar and carrageenan films incorporating pine bark extract were investigated. Infrared spectra indicated hydrogen bonding of sorbitol and polypropylene glycol with film polymers which improved water diffusion and agar solubility but showed no effect in carrageenan films due to high water affinity. Hydrophilicity of the plasticisers modified dissolution of films and strongly affected the release behaviours of polyphenols and antioxidant capacity (DPPH• and FRAP). Film solubility showed high correlation to release behaviours. Fick's diffusion kinetics fitted well to release behaviour of pine bark to aqueous media (water, 3% acetic acid and 10% ethanol). Agar gave a higher diffusion coefficient that was improved by the addition of sorbitol and polypropylene glycol. Increased diffusion coefficients enhanced degree of release, with some diversions suggesting that solvent modified matrices and, hence, release properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This scientific opinion of the EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes and Processing aids (CEP Panel) is on the safety assessment of trimellitic acid, tris(2‐ethylhexyl) ester, intended to be used as a plasticiser in the manufacture of soft poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) materials and articles, such as wrap films (single uses) and tubing (repeated uses) at up to approximately 10% and 40%, respectively. Under the tested conditions, the substance migrated up to 165 μg/kg food from wrap films and was not detected in food simulant in contact with tubing. Based on the three reported in vitro genotoxicity studies, the Panel concluded that the substance does not raise concern for genotoxicity. The lowest no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL), derived from a 90‐day oral toxicity study, was 225 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day. Based on data on toxicokinetic and metabolism, the substance does not give rise to concern for accumulation in humans. The substance does not cause developmental effects as induced by phthalic acid, bis(2‐ethylhexyl) ester (DEHP). Assuming that impurities migrate pro‐rata to a migration of the substance up to 5 mg/kg food, their estimated migration does not raise a safety concern. The Panel concluded that the substance does not raise safety concern for the consumer when used in the manufacture of soft PVC under the conditions requested by the applicant for (i) single use wrap films in contact with food for which simulants A, B and D1 are assigned, as well as (ii) tubing for repeated contacts with food for which simulants A and B are assigned. Overall, the use of the substance does not raise a safety concern if its migration does not exceed 5 mg/kg food. Due to the additional contribution from other sources of exposures, the application of an allocation factor should be considered.

Rice starch is known to have an excellent film-forming behaviour in the packaging industry but inadequate attention was given to this biopolymer to be developed into thin films for drug delivery. Accordingly, rice starch thin films containing a model drug, paracetamol and plasticisers (glycerol or sorbitol) were developed using film casting technique. This study focuses on investigating the impact of plasticiser and drug loading on drug release pattern of rice starch films which has not been explored to date. The obtained rice films were characterised for their physicochemical properties including swelling and dissolution study. The highest drug dissolution rate was achieved in the rice films with a low drug loading due to drug amorphicity in nature. When drug loading increases, the swelling behaviour of rice films plays a dominant role in releasing drug in the crystalline form. The role of plasticiser was indicated by the plasticiser-starch interaction where a strong interaction allows drug solubilisation more readily in the dissolution medium. It is envisaged that rice films could be tailored to achieve desired drug release pattern with different plasticiser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Recently, various additive manufacturing (3D printing) approaches have been employed to fabricate dressings such as film scaffolds that possess well defined architecture and orientation at the micro level. In this study, crosslinked chitosan (CH) based film matrices were prepared using 3D printing with genipin (GE) as a crosslinker, with glycerol (GLY) and poly ethylene glycol (PEG) as plasticizer. The 3D printed films were functionally characterized using (tensile, fluid handling, mucoadhesion, drug dissolution, morphological properties and cell viability as well physico-chemical characterization using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. CH-GE-PEG600 3D printed films having the ratio of 1:1 polymer: plasticizer was selected due to their appropriate flexibility. Fourier transform infrared results showed intermolecular interaction between CH, GE and PEG which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction showing amorphous matrix structure. In vitro mucoadhesion studies of CH-GE-PEG600 films showed the capability of the 3D printed film to adhere to the epithelial surface. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the surface of the plasticised films were smooth indicating content uniformity of CH, GE and PEG whilst micro cracks in unplasticised films confirmed their brittle nature. Plasticised films also showed high swelling capacity which enhanced water absorption. Cytotoxicity (MTT) assay using human skin fibroblast cell lines demonstrated that more than 90% of cells were viable after 48 h confirming non-toxic nature of the 3D printed CH-GE-PEG600 films and therefore promising dressing for chronic wound healing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Polymer electrolyte membranes, also known as proton exchange membranes (PEMs), are a type of semipermeable membrane that exhibits the property of conducting ions while impeding the mixing of reactant materials across the membrane. Due to the large potential and substantial number of applications of these materials, the development of proton exchange membranes (PEMs) has been in progress for the last few decades to successfully replace the commercial Nafion® membranes. In the course of this research, an alternate perspective of PEMs has been initiated with a desire to attain successful operations at higher working temperatures (120–200 °C) while retaining the physical properties, stability and high proton conductivity. Both low- and high-temperature PEMs have been fabricated by various processes, such as grafting, cross-linking, or combining polymer electrolytes with nanoparticles, additives and acid-base complexes by electrostatic interactions, or by employing layer-by-layer technologies. The current review suggests that the incorporation of additives such as plasticisers and fillers has proven potential to modify the physical and chemical properties of pristine and/or composite membranes. In many studies, additives have demonstrated a substantial role in ameliorating both the mechanical and electrical properties of PEMs to make them effective for fuel cell applications. It is notable that plasticiser additives are less desirable for the development of high-temperature PEMs, as their inherent highly hydrophilic properties may stiffen the membrane. Conversely, filler additives form an inorganic-organic composite with increased surface area to retain more bound water within the polymer matrices to overcome the drawbacks of ohmic losses at high operating temperatures. Highlights • Roles of plasticisers and fillers as additives for PEMs were highlighted. • Applications of additives in low- and high-temperature PEMFCs were discussed. • Plasticisers increase the PEM 'free volume' and thus proton conductivity. • Fillers improve the thermo-chemical stability of PEMs. • Future perspectives of additives in PEMs were suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Background and Objectives: Two of the predictive factors of the quality of small volumes of platelets suitable for paediatric use are bag size and material. This study evaluated the storage properties of paediatric platelet aliquots in TOTM‐, BTHC‐ or DINCH‐PVC bags. Methods/Materials: (i) Three apheresis platelet concentrates (PC) were pooled and split into three units. One was retained as an adult unit (control; polyolefin bag). The second and third units were split into four MacoPharma TOTM‐PVC and BTHC‐PVC paediatric bags, respectively. (ii) Two apheresis PC were pooled and split into two units. One PC was retained as an adult unit, and the other was split into four Fresenius DINCH‐PVC paediatric bags. Testing was performed on storage for pH, blood gases, hypotonic shock response, soluble CD62P, LDH, glucose and lactate, ATP, CD62P, CD63, platelet‐derived microparticles and annexin V. Results: The volumes, platelet yields and pH of all paediatric units met local specifications. The TOTM‐PVC bag showed no worse quality than the adult bag up to day 7 for all parameters studied, and it maintained pH higher than BTHC‐PVC and DINCH‐PVC over storage. The BTHC‐PVC bag was shown to be the most gas permeable; however, it had the highest glucose consumption rates and the highest platelet activation. Conclusion: All bags showed an acceptable in vitro quality. Overall, the TOTM‐PVC paediatric bag showed better platelet quality compared to the other storage bags, whereas storage in the BTHC‐PVC bag resulted in poorer platelet quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of proline, mineral salts (NaCl and Na2SO4) and pH combined with moisture content on the glass transition temperature (Tg) and flow‐starting temperature (Tf) of soy protein concentrate (SPC). Initial screening of the variables based on fractional factorial design showed insignificant effect of NaCl on Tg and Tf. The design was extended to a face‐centred central composite design (CCD) excluding NaCl and data evaluated by use of response surface methodology. The established model for Tg (R2 = 0.824) shows significant negative first‐order effects of moisture, proline and Na2SO4, and a positive interaction effect of moisture and Na2SO4. The Tf model (R2 = 0.937) shows significant negative first‐order effects of moisture and proline, a positive first‐order and negative square effect of pH, and a negative interaction effect of moisture and proline. The main effect on Tg and Tf was 2.2 and 1.3 times higher, respectively, for moisture compared to proline. The study confirms that proline (or other free amino acids) can replace moisture as protein plasticiser in the extrusion process. Minor effects can also be obtained by reduction in pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticisers have been widely used as additives in polymer applications, including pharmaceuticals, food processing, and electrochemical sensing, to improve the mechanical and physicochemical properties of the polymers. Recent developments using alternatives to the conventional phthalate ester plasticisers, such as water, ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DES), have opened new avenues for expanding plasticiser use into other potential areas such as ion exchange membranes. Owing to the unique properties of plasticisers that promote a higher amount of amorphous phase within the intermolecular structural of the polymer, combinations of plasticisers and polymers improve a polymeric film's ionic conductivity while maintaining film flexibility and thermal stability. Hence, this review paper intends to provide an insight on the applications of conventional and alternative plasticisers in various areas, as well as to address the working mechanism of plasticisers within polymer films. Most importantly, this paper highlights recent developments incorporating plasticisers in proton exchange membranes and the future potential of these materials. The outlook presented here demonstrates that some of the challenges faced during the fabrication of ion exchange membranes, which are alternatives to Nafion membranes, can be overcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]