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Ceramic nanofibrous sponges are attractive for their broad applications in high-temperature air filtration, thermal insulation, sewage treatment, and catalyst support. However, the present ceramic sponges usually show brittle fracture even under tensile stresses. Herein, a ceramic sponge assembled by ultralong and crimped Si 3 N 4 nanofiber nanofibers is designed and prepared to achieve temperature-invariant reversible from liquid nitrogen to 1200 °C and large elongations (ductile failure over 100 %) as well as excellent compressive anti-puncturing property. Moreover, the ceramic sponge illustrates a high filtration efficiency of 99.6 % for PM 2.5 and a low-pressure drop of 32 Pa during a long-term test under high-speed gas flow. It can also support photocatalyst g-C 3 N 4 nanoparticles, yielding a high efficiency of photodegradation of nitrogen oxide gases. The well-designed ceramic nanofiber sponge with good comprehensive mechanical performances thus shows promising applications in air purification under extreme working conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Allium jesdianum is traditionally used by local iranians as a natural anti-urolithiasis and kidney pain reducer. • A. jesdianum hydroalcoholic extract has promising potential in inhibiting crystal growth and aggregation. • Three phenolic and two steroidal compounds were identified by advanced spectroscopic methods in the hydroalcoholic extract of this species. • The possible mechanism of the therapeutic effects of the species can be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds and their ability to reduce free radicals and break up stone formation signaling pathways. Allium jesdianum , a plant utilized in traditional Iranian medicine, has been historically recognized for its efficacy in countering urolithiasis and alleviating kidney pain. In this study, we investigated the hydroalcoholic extract of A. jesdianum for its potential inhibitory effects on calcium oxalate crystallization (in vitro). The study employed spectrophotometric analysis and microscopic observation to quantify sodium oxalate-induced crystallization, nucleation, and aggregation. The extract of A. jesdianum at concentration of 32 mg/mL exhibited significant potential in inhibiting crystal growth, aggregation, and reducing crystal particle size. Phytochemical analysis of the extract disclosed the presence of three known phenolic and two identified steroid compounds, offering initial insights into its bioactive constituents. A. jesdianum emerges as a promising candidate for the development of plant-based oxalate anticrystallization drugs. The therapeutic mechanisms might be attributed to pain control and the presence of phenolic compounds acting as free radical scavengers, disrupting stone formation signaling pathways. However, further investigation is required to elucidate specific chemical structures related to these activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Regeneration of waste graphite by using surfactant assisted methanesulfonic acid. • The purity and recovery rate of regenerated graphite reaches 99.7% and 98.0%. • This method can protect the graphite structure under impurity removal conditions. • Regenerated graphite exhibits excellent electrochemical performance. With the vigorous development of the new energy industry, the use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is growing exponentially, and the recycling of spent LIBs has gradually become a research hotspot. Currently, recycling both cathode and anode materials of LIBs is important to environmental protection and resource recycling. This research reports a method of efficient purification and high-quality regeneration of graphite from spent LIBs by surfactant-assisted methanesulfonic acid (MSA). Under the optimal conditions (0.006 mol/L sodium dodecyl sulfonate, 0.25 mol/L MSA, 10 vol% hydrogen peroxide, liquid–solid ratio of 30:1 mL/g, 60 °C, 1.5 h), the purity of the regenerated graphite was 99.7 %, and the recovery efficiency was 98.0 %. The regenerated graphite showed the characteristics of small interplanar spacing, high degree of graphitization, a small number of surface defects, and excellent pore structure, which was closer to commercial graphite. Furthermore, the regenerated graphite electrode exhibited superior rate performance and cycling stability with a high specific capacity of 397.03 mAh/g after 50 cycles at 0.1C and a charge–discharge efficiency of 99.33 %. The recovery of anode graphite beneficial for resource utilization, environmental protection, and cost control throughout the entire production chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic reaction takes place on the surface of the catalyst, the crystal plane engineering which can adjust and optimize the surface atomic ordering and electronic energy band structure has been widely studied, considering the microchemical environment changes caused by defects on different surfaces, the combination of crystal plane engineering and defect engineering is expected to become a promising strategy to greatly improve the performance of photocatalysis. In this paper, we introduce 2,2'‐Bipyridyl to induce oxygen vacancy in the synthesis of highly exposed {100} faceted TiO2 nanorods, and obtain oxygen‐rich TiO2 nanomaterials. Benefit from the synergistic effect of high‐energy crystal plane and oxygen vacancy, 96.8 % Rhodamine B (10 mg ⋅ L−1) is degraded after irradiation of 30 min in T100‐VO photocatalytic system. This study provides a new strategy and inspiration for low‐cost control of semiconductor oxides and the design of efficient photocatalysts for environmental purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐purity octafluoropropane (C3F8) electronic specialty gas is a key chemical raw material in semiconductor and integrated circuit manufacturing industry, while selective removal of hexafluoropropylene (C3F6) impurity for C3F8 purification is essential but a challenging task. Here we report a fluorinated cage‐like MOF Zn‐bzc‐CF3 (bzc=5‐(trifluoromethyl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic acid) for C3F6/C3F8 separation. The incorporation of −CF3 groups not only provides suitable pore aperture size for highly efficient size‐exclusive C3F6/C3F8 separation, but also creates hydrophobic microenvironments, endowing Zn‐bz‐CF3 high chemical stability. Remarkably, Zn‐bzc‐CF3 exhibits high C3F6 adsorption capacity while excluding C3F8, achieving ideal molecular‐sieving C3F6/C3F8 separation. Breakthrough experiments show that Zn‐bzc‐CF3 can efficiently separate C3F6/C3F8 mixture and high‐purity C3F8 (99.9 %) can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a growing interest in using cadmium (Cd) isotopes to trace the source of Cd contamination and Cd cycling in the Earth surface. Yet it remains technically challenging to precisely and efficiently determine the Cd isotopic compositions of samples with extremely low Cd concentrations due to the imperfect separation of Cd from the matrix and the interference caused by resin-derived organics when TRU Spec resin was used. In this study, we present a two-stage column chromatography system (AG-MP-1M resin + UTEVA resin) for Cd purification. Here, a Prefilter resin combined with UTEVA resin effectively purifies Cd from Sn after the separation of Cd by AG-MP-1M column while keeping the phosphorous organic compounds to an acceptable level. In contrast to TRU Spec resin, which is prone to leaking through the Prefilter resin, we find that UTEVA resin is effectively retained by the Prefilter resin, thus avoiding the P-related anomalous shifts in the Cd isotope measurement (P/Cd < 1). UTEVA resin also exhibits a comparable capacity for purifying Cd from Sn and Mo when compared to TRU Spec resin. The recovery of the two-stage column system is generally higher than 99% and the procedural blank accounting for sample digestion and chemical purification is lower than 20 pg. The Cd isotopic compositions of several reference materials are determined using double spike MC-ICP-MS, with a 111Cd–113Cd double spike pair optimized for the 111Cd, 112Cd, 113Cd, and 114Cd inversion. The δ114/110Cd values of these reference materials relative to NIST SRM 3108 agree within analytical uncertainty with previous studies. The long-term external precision of δ114/110Cd determined based on replicated measurements of BCR-2 is 0.04‰ (n = 10, 2 SD) for a minimum sample size of 10 ng. Our study thus provides an efficient two-stage column system for determining the Cd isotopic compositions of geological samples with relatively low Cd concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing high-efficiency photothermal seawater desalination devices is of significant importance in addressing the shortage of freshwater. Despite much effort made into photothermal materials, there is an urgent need to design a rapidly synthesized photothermal evaporator for the comprehensive purification of complex seawater. Therefore, we report on all-in-one FeO x -rGO photothermal sponges synthesized via solid-phase microwave thermal shock. The narrow band gap of the semiconductor material Fe 3 O 4 greatly reduces the recombination of electron-hole pairs, enhancing non-radiative relaxation light absorption. The abundant π orbitals in rGO promote electron excitation and thermal vibration between the lattices. Control of the surface hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity promotes salt resistance while simultaneously achieving the purification of various complex polluted waters. The optimized GFM-3 sponge exhibitedan enhanced photothermal conversion rate of 97.3% and a water evaporation rate of 2.04 kg/(m2·hr), showing promising synergistic water purification properties. These findings provide a highly efficient photothermal sponge for practical applicationsof seawater desalination and purification,as well as develop a super-rapid processing methodology for evaporation devices. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents design results of two novel intensified convective reactors aimed at hydrogen/syngas production from biomethane. The first design (Design I) features a reactor housing two tube banks, operating at different temperature levels. The second design (Design II) advancing towards process intensification, incorporates palladium-based membranes in the low-temperature zone (LTZ). Superalloy tubes, capable to withstand high-temperature operating conditions, are disposed in the high-temperature zone (HTZ), while conventional stainless steel is profited for the tubes in the LTZ. These bayonet-type tube designs offer notable advantages in terms of energy integration, mechanical integrity, and reduced manufacturing costs. In both designs, the bayonet configuration in the HTZ enables a heat recovery of approximately 13.5 % from the returning syngas. The results demonstrate high methane conversions of about 76.41 % and 82.12 % for Design I and Design II, respectively. Hydrogen production yields ca. 524 Nm3/h for Design I and 567 Nm3/h for Design II, with H 2 /CH 4 yields of 2.62 and 2.83 kmol H 2 per kmol CH 4 feed, respectively. The incorporation of a Pd-based membrane in Design II allows the selective extraction of pure H 2 , resulting in an 8.28 % increase in H 2 production by shifting the thermodinamic equilibrium. The implementation of a membrane-based purification unit downstream the reactor aiming achieving pure H 2 would require an approximate membrane area of 14 m2 for both designs. Design II, when coupled with this downstream membrane module, would exhibit an increase of 10.64 % in pure hydrogen yield compared to Design I. [Display omitted] • Reactor with two zones: different materials of tubes in each zone. • Bayonet-type tubes allows enhanced energy integration and mechanical integrity. • +5 % in CH₄ conversion due to the use of palladium-based membranes. • Maximum H 2 production of 567.5 Nm3/h for Design II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palladium films hold signicance due to their remarkable affinity for hydrogen diffusion, rendering them valauble for the seperation and purification of hydrogen in membrane reactors. However, palladium is expensive, and its films can become brittle after only a few cycles of hydrogen separation. Alloying with silver has been shown to overcome the problem of palladium embrittlement. Palladium‐silver films have been produced via several methods but all have drawbacks, such as difficulties controlling the alloy composition. This study explores two promising jet printing methods: Inkjet and Aerosoljet. Both methods offer potential advantages such as direct patterning, which reduces waste, enables thin film production, and allows for the control of alloy composition. For the first time, palladium‐silver alloys have been produced via inkjet printing using a palladium‐silver metal organic decomposition (MOD) ink, which alloys at a temperature of 300 °C with nitrogen. Similarly, this study also demonstrates a pioneering approach for Aerosol Jet printing, showing the potential of a novel room‐temperature method, for the deposition of palladium‐silver MOD inks. This low temperature approach is considered an important development as palladium‐silver MOD inks are originally designed for deposition on heated substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purifying olefin from ternary paraffin/olefin/alkyne mixtures through a one‐step adsorption process is extremely desirable. Herein, a stable zirconium(IV) metal‐organic framework with a customized pore surface composed of nonpolar phenyl and slightly polar thiophene rings is reported to access the adsorption preference of paraffin and alkyne over olefin. Noteworthily, this material displays a superior ability to discriminate C3 hydrocarbon molecules, which is principally more challenging compared with C2 ones and rarely documented. Computational studies disclose that its featured pore shape fits well with C3 gas molecules, enabling them to get close contact with the immobilized affinity sites. Leveraging surface chemistry and pore shape engineering synergistically gives rise to excellent C3 adsorption capacities (>5 mmol g−1) and concurrently high C3H8/C3H6 (1.4) and C3H4/C3H6 (1.9) selectivities (at 298 K and 1 atm). Dynamic column breakthrough experiments demonstrate that one‐step purification of C2H4 and C3H6 can be simultaneously realized on this material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As bulky pollutants in industrial and agricultural wastewater, nitrate and formaldehyde pose serious threats to the human health and ecosystem. Current purification technologies including chemical and bio‐/photo‐/electro‐chemical methods, are generally high‐cost, time‐consuming, or energy‐intensive. Here, we report a novel formaldehyde‐nitrate battery by pairing anodic formaldehyde oxidation with cathodic nitrate reduction, which simultaneously enables wastewater purification, electricity generation, and the production of high‐value‐added ammonia and formate. As a result, the formaldehyde‐nitrate battery remarkably exhibits an open‐circuit voltage of 0.75 V, a peak power density of 3.38 mW cm−2 and the yield rates of 32.7 mg h−1 cm−2 for ammonia and 889.4 mg h−1 cm−2 for formate. In a large‐scale formaldehyde‐nitrate battery (25 cm2), 99.9 % of nitrate and 99.8 % of formaldehyde are removed from simulated industrial wastewater and the electricity of 2.03 W⋅h per day is generated. Moreover, the design of such a multi‐functional battery is universally applicable to the coupling of NO3− or NO2− reduction with various aldehyde oxidization, paving a new avenue for wastewater purification and chemical manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has increased the demand for anti-viral products. Photocatalytic materials are used to develop coatings and air purifiers that inactivate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. However, the methods for evaluating the anti-viral performance of photocatalytic materials are time-consuming. To address this problem, herein, we propose a screening test for the anti-viral performance of photocatalytic materials based on the 'acetaldehyde decomposition test'—an air purification efficiency test used to evaluate the decomposition performance of photocatalytic materials. This test is suitable for screening multiple samples and conditions in a short period. The temporal variation in the acetaldehyde concentration was approximated using an exponential function, similar to the temporal variation in the viral infection values. Thereafter, the slope of the regression line for the acetaldehyde concentration over time was used as an indicator in the screening tests. When the anti-viral performance and acetaldehyde decomposition tests were conducted on the same photocatalytic material, a correlation was observed between the slopes of the regression lines. Overall, the proposed screening test shows good potential for evaluating the anti-viral performance of photocatalytic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxin contamination is widespread in plants and herbs, posing serious threats to the consumer and human health. Of them, alternariol (AOH) has attracted great attention as an "emerging" mycotoxin in medicinal herbs. However, a specific and high‐throughput extraction method for AOH is currently lacking. Thus, developing an efficient pre‐treatment technique for AOH detection is extremely vital. Here, a novel automated magnetic solid‐phase extraction method was proposed for the highly efficient extraction of AOH. Combining the aptamer‐functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (AMNPs) and the automatic purification instrument, AOH could be extracted in medicinal herbs in high throughput (20 samples) and a short time (30 min). The main parameters affecting extraction were optimized, and the method was finally carried out by incubation AMNPs with 3 mL of sample solution for 10 min, and then desorption in 75% methanol for liquid‐phase detection. Under optimal conditions, good reproducibility, stability, and selectivity were realized with an adsorption capacity of 550.84 ng/mg. AOH extraction in three edible herbs showed good resistance to matrix interference with recovery rates from 86% to 111%. In combination with AMNPs and the automatic purification instrument, high‐throughput and labor‐free extraction of AOH in different complex matrices was achieved, which could be extended in other complex matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, in the ongoing development of the tobacco industry, a large amount of tobacco rhizomes is discarded as waste. These wastes are usually disposed of through incineration or burial. However, these tobacco wastes still have some economic value. High-purity nicotine has a promising market outlook as the primary raw material for electronic cigarette liquid. Nicotine is not only found in tobacco leaves but also in the rhizomes of tobacco plants. This study presents a method for treating tobacco waste and extracting high-purity nicotine from it. After mixing the raw material powder and entrainer in specific ratios, as much of the nicotine in tobacco roots can be extracted as possible using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction. The effects of temperature, the ratio of the entrainer, and the volume fraction of ethanol in the entrainer on the nicotine yield in supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) at 25 MPa for 120 min were discussed. By using 90% ethanol (a raw material mass-to-volume ratio of 1:5) as the entrainer, we obtained the highest nicotine yield of 0.49% at 65 °C. Meanwhile, the purity of the crude extract was 61.71%, and after purification, it increased to 97.57%. In this way, we can not only obtain nicotine with market value but also further reduce the harm to the environment caused by tobacco waste disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solution MC‐ICP‐MS is an established technique for high precision boron isotope measurement results (δ11BSRM 951) in carbonates, yet its application to silicate rocks has been limited. Impediments include volatilisation during silicate dissolution and contamination during chemical purification. To address this, we present a low‐blank sample preparation procedure that couples hydrofluoric acid‐digestion and low‐temperature evaporation (mannitol‐free), to an established MC‐ICP‐MS measurement procedure following chemical purification using B‐specific Amberlite IRA 743 resin. We obtain accurate δ11BSRM 951 values (intermediate precision ±0.2‰) for boric acid (BAM ERM‐AE121 19.65 ± 0.14‰) and carbonate (NIST RM 8301 (Coral) 24.24 ± 0.11‰) reference materials. For silicate reference materials covering mafic to felsic compositions we obtain δ11BSRM 951 with intermediate precision < ±0.6‰ (2s), namely JB‐2 6.9 ± 0.4‰; IAEA‐B‐5 ‐6.0 ± 0.6‰; IAEA‐B‐6 ‐3.9 ± 0.5‰ (2s). Furthermore, splits of these same reference materials were processed by an alternative fusion and purification procedure. We find excellent agreement between δ11BSRM 951 measurement results by MC‐ICP‐MS of the reference materials using both sample processing techniques. These measurement results show that our sample processing and MC‐ICP‐MS methods provide consistent δ11BSRM 951 values for low B‐mass fraction samples. We present new data from Mid Ocean Ridge Basalt (MORB) glass, documenting a range in δ11BSRM 951 from ‐5.6 ± 0.3‰ to ‐8.8 ± 0.5‰ (2s), implying some upper mantle δ11BSRM 951 heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum nitride (AlN) has attracted huge attention in new energy vehicle, communication equipment fields, due to the high-thermal conductivity and reliable insulating ability. One of the most crucial factors is the preparation of high-performance AlN powders, and more significantly, the two-dimensional nanostructure would change the phonon vibration mode and transport process, bringing in the novel heat conduction and electricity properties. In this paper, kilogram of two-dimensional aluminum nitride nanosheets (AlNNS) with thicknesses around 30 nm and particle sizes around 400 nm were prepared by a new strategy for the nano sanding process, in which they still keep high purity (impurity content ppm grade) without further purification. Furthermore, the technological parameters of the sanding time and line speed are found as the key factors, that would affect the transformation process fro m hexagonal AlN into super-thin AlNNS. The morphology of the nanosheets is more complete at the line speed of 8 m/s. In addition, AlNNS have an increase of 7% in thermal conductivity (at 50 °C) compared to that of raw powders. Moreover, AlNNS have stronger sintering activity due to the larger specific surface area, in which show an increase of 16.8% in shrinkage. Therefore, AlNNS would represent excellent physical properties more than thermal conductivity, providing a new dimension research in high-thermal conductivity ceramics. Last but not least, nano sanding strategy as a purely physical process, avoids the subsequent chemical purification process, and has the advantages of simple and efficient, low energy consumption and environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-lived radionuclides in our environment provide important information on natural and anthropogenic processes. Their presence and concentration reflect the balance of production and decay. Geological archives store such information and the nuclides can be chemically extracted from the bulk sample. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) represents a sensitive method to quantify those nuclides at natural levels. Three different terrestrial archives are discussed here as examples for radionuclide extraction using various chemical separation methods for subsequent AMS measurements. We focus on sample preparation for the cosmogenic radionuclides 10Be and 26Al, various anthropogenic actinide isotopes such as U, Pu, and Am as well as the astrophysically interesting nuclides 41Ca, 53Mn, and 60Fe. The processed materials cover samples with masses between a few mg and up to a few hundred kg and protocols are presented for the quantitative extraction of some 10,000 atoms of cosmogenic or interstellar origin per sample and even as low as a few hundred actinide atoms.

Safe and flexible hydrogen storage technology (HST) emerges as a crucial element in driving the industrialization of hydrogen energy. Consequently, HSTs are being extensively investigated globally, with an increasing number diffusing beyond national boundaries through transnational patent applications. However, the absence of an evolutionary analysis constrains the exploration of technological opportunities in HST. In this study, we unveil the evolutionary trajectory and innovation trends of HST by analyzing its global diffusion and convergence network, utilizing patent family and IPC co-occurrence data spanning from 1993 to 2022. Our results indicate that the transnational diffusion of HST is concentrated in core countries. Japan and France emerged as dominant source countries, while China, Europe, Korea, and Canada were identified as main target countries for HST diffusion. Notably, in the past decade, China and France have experienced significant expansion in filing HST patents. However, China filed a relatively limited number of patent families, suggesting a varied level of engagement in transnational HST diffusion. Hydrogen fuel cells, storage alloys, vessels, and distribution systems constitute the primary technological domains of HST. In the initial stages, fuel cells and alloy materials dominated HST development, often converging with metal powders and heat treatment. However, since 2003, F17C, related to storage vessels, has evolved as a focal point of convergence, involving the integration of pressure tanks, filling and discharging systems, liquid transportation, gas purification, and rare earth materials. Overall, this research offers novel insights for strategizing future HST innovations. • The evolution of HST was evaluated through patent analysis. • Diffusion and convergence trajectory study provides a new perspective to understand HST's innovation trend. • The global diffusion network of HST tends to concentrate in few source and target countries. • Storage vessels and alloys are emerging directions of HST convergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are hybrid materials that are being explored as active electrode materials in energy storage devices, such as rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors (SCs), due to their high surface area, controllable chemical composition, and periodic ordering. However, the facile and controlled synthesis of a pure MOF phase without impurities or without going through a complicated purification process (that also reduces the yield) are challenges that must be resolved for their potential industrial applications. Moreover, various oxide formations of the Ni during Ni-MOF synthesis also represent an issue that affects the purity and performance. To resolve these issues, we report the controlled synthesis of nickel-based metal–organic frameworks (NiMOFs) by optimizing different growth parameters during hydrothermal synthesis and by utilizing nickel chloride as metal salt and H2bdt as the organic ligand, in a ratio of 1:1 at 150 °C. Furthermore, the synthesis was optimized by introducing a magnetic stirring stage, and the reaction temperature varied across 100, 150, and 200 °C to achieve the optimized growth of the NiMOFs crystal. The rarely used H2bdt ligand for Ni-MOF synthesis and the introduction of the ultrasonication stage before putting it in the furnace led to the formation of a pure phase without impurities and oxide formation. The synthesized materials were further characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–vis spectroscopy. The SEM images exhibited the formation of nano NiMOFs having a rectangular prism shape. The average size was 126.25 nm, 176.0 nm, and 268.4 nm for the samples (1:1)s synthesized at 100 °C, 150 °C, and 200 °C, respectively. The electrochemical performances were examined in a three-electrode configuration, in a wide potential window from −0.4 V to 0.55 V, and an electrolyte concentration of 2M KOH was maintained for each measurement. The charge–discharge galvanostatic measurement results in specific capacitances of 606.62 F/g, 307.33 F/g, and 287.42 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g for the synthesized materials at 100 °C, 150 °C, and 200 °C, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous innovative nanoparticle formulations of drugs and biologics, named nano-formulations, have been developed in the last two decades. However, methods for their scaled-up production are still lagging, as the amount needed for large animal tests and clinical trials is typically orders of magnitude larger. This manufacturing challenge poses a critical barrier to successfully translating various nano-formulations. This review focuses on how microfluidics technology has become a powerful tool to overcome this challenge by synthesizing various nano-formulations with improved particle properties and product purity in large quantities. This microfluidic-based manufacturing is enabled by microfluidic mixing, which is capable of the precise and continuous control of the synthesis of nano-formulations. We further discuss the specific applications of hydrodynamic flow focusing, a staggered herringbone micromixer, a T-junction mixer, a micro-droplet generator, and a glass capillary on various types of nano-formulations of polymeric, lipid, inorganic, and nanocrystals. Various separation and purification microfluidic methods to enhance the product purity are reviewed, including acoustofluidics, hydrodynamics, and dielectrophoresis. We further discuss the challenges of microfluidics being used by broader research and industrial communities. We also provide future outlooks of its enormous potential as a decentralized approach for manufacturing nano-formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Pinene is a biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) that significantly contributes to secondary organic aerosols (SOA) in the atmosphere due to its high emission rate, reactivity, and SOA yield. However, the SOA yield measured in chamber studies from α-pinene photooxidation is limited in a purified air matrix. Assessing SOA formation from α-pinene photooxidation in real urban ambient air based on studies conducted in purified air matrices may be subject to uncertainties. In this study, α-pinene photooxidation and SOA yield were investigated in a smog chamber in the presence of NO and SO2 under purified air and ambient air matrices. With the accumulation of ozone (O3) during the photooxidation, an increasing part of α-pinene was consumed by O3 and finally nearly half of the α-pinene was oxidized by O3, facilitating the production of highly oxidized organic molecules and thereby SOA formation. Although the ambient air we introduced as matrix air was largely clean, with initial organic aerosol mass concentrations of ~1.5 μg m−3, the α-pinene SOA yield in the ambient air matrix was 42.3 ± 5.3%, still higher than that of 32.4 ± 0.4% in the purified air matrix. The chemical characterization of SOA by the high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-AMS) revealed that CxHy accounted for 53.7 ± 1.1% of the total signal in the ambient air matrix experiments, higher than 48.1 ± 0.3% in the purified air, while CxHyO and CxHyO>1 together constituted 45.0 ± 0.9% in the ambient air matrix, lower than 50.1 ± 1.0% in the purified air. The O:C ratio in the ambient air matrix experiments was 0.41 ± 0.01, lower than 0.46 ± 0.01 in the purified air. The higher SOA yield of α-pinene in the ambient air matrix compared to that in the purified air matrix was partly due to the presence of initial aerosols in the ambient air, which facilitated the low volatile organic compounds produced from photochemical oxidation to enter the aerosol phase through gas-particle partitioning. The in-situ aerosol acidity calculated by the ISORROPIA-II model in the ambient air matrix experiments was approximately six times higher than that in purified air, and the higher SOA yield in the ambient air matrix experiments might also be attributed to acid-catalyzed SOA formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new capture process of NH3-containing gas treatment with ionic liquids was designed. • MOGA method was employed to optimize the process operational parameters. • The comparison of water scrubbing and IL-based process was carried out. • TPC of enhanced process can be reduced by 32.41 % than water scrubbing. Ammonia (NH 3) emission has caused serious environment issues and aroused worldwide concern. The emerging ionic liquid (IL) provides a greener way to efficiently capture NH 3. This paper provides rigorous process simulation, optimization and assessment for a novel NH 3 deep purification process using IL. The process was designed and investigated by simulation and optimization using ionic liquid [C 4 im][NTF 2 ] as absorbent. Three objective functions, total purification cost (TPC), total process CO 2 emission (TPCOE) and thermal efficiency (η eff) were employed to optimize the absorption process. Process simulation and optimization results indicate that at same purification standard and recovery rate, the novel process can achieve lower cost and CO 2 emission compared to benchmark process. After process optimization, the optimal functions can achieve 0.02726 $/Nm3 (TPC), 311.27 kg CO 2 /hr (TPCOE), and 52.21% (η eff) for enhanced process. Moreover, compared with conventional process, novel process could decrease over $ 3 million of purification cost and 10000 tons of CO 2 emission during the life cycle. The results provide a novel strategy and guidance for deep purification of NH 3 capture. SYNOPSIS: This work guides to optimization of the process for NH 3 capture and NH 3 resource recovery based on ionic liquids. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide lithium demand has surged in recent years due to increased production of Li‐ion batteries for electric vehicles and stationary storage. Li supply and production will need to increase such that the transition towards increased electrification in the energy sector does not become cost prohibitive. Many countries have taken policy steps such as listing Li as a critical mineral. Current commercial Li mining is mostly from dedicated mine sources, including ores, clays, and brines. The conventional ways to extract Li+ from those resources are through chemical processing and includes steps of calcination, leaching, precipitation, and purification. The environmental and economic sustainability of conventional Li processing has recently received increased scrutiny. Routes such as direct Li+ extraction may provide advantages relative to conventional Li+ extraction technologies, and one possible route to direct Li+ extraction includes leveraging intercalation materials. Intercalation material processing has recently demonstrated high selectivity towards Li+ as opposed to other cations. Reviews and reports of direct Li+ extraction with intercalation materials are limited, even as this technology has started to show promise in smaller‐scale demonstrations. This paper will review selective Li+ extraction via intercalation materials, including both electrochemical and chemical methods to drive Li+ in and out, and efforts to characterize the Li+ insertion/deinsertion processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice husk ash silica obtained from the chemical purification of rice husk ash is a bio‐based silica. As a sustainable raw material, the bio‐based silica has attracted much attention in recent years. It can be used to replace traditional carbon black and silica in tire rubbers. Our experimental results show that the bio‐based silica can bring similar mechanical properties and higher wet grip to natural rubber in comparison with traditional silica. The wet mixing method is successfully used to disperse the bio‐based silica in natural rubber latex, obtaining a bio‐based silica/natural rubber composite with higher abrasion resistance and lower rolling resistance than the composite prepared by traditional dry mixing. The mechanical properties of bio‐based silica/natural rubber composites depend on the silica loading and mixing methods. Mixing natural rubber and bio‐based silica through wet‐mixing method is a green and sustainable approach to the tread rubbers with excellent mechanical properties, low rolling resistance, high abrasion resistance, and wet grip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1-Methylxanthine is a high-value derivative of caffeine of limited natural availability with many potential pharmaceutical applications. Unfortunately, production of 1-methylxanthine through purely chemical methods of synthesis are unfavorable due to lengthy chemical processes and the requirement of hazardous chemicals, ultimately resulting in low yields. Here, we describe a novel biosynthetic process for the production of 1-methylxanthine from theophylline using engineered Escherichia coli whole-cell biocatalysts and reaction optimization. When scaled-up to 1590 mL, the simple biocatalytic reaction produced approximately 1188 mg 1-methylxanthine from 1444 mg theophylline, constituting gram-scale production of 1-methylxanthine in as little as 3 hours. Following HPLC purification and solvent evaporation, 1163 mg of dried 1-methylxanthine powder was collected, resulting in a 97.9 wt% product recovery at a purity of 97.8%. This is the first report of a biocatalytic process designed specifically for the production and purification of the high-value biochemical 1-methylxanthine from theophylline. This process is also the most robust methylxanthine N -demethylation process featuring engineered E. coli to date, capable of gram-scale production. • Novel, biosynthetic pathway for production of 1-methylxanthine at gram scale. • Engineered E. coli for high-value biochemical production. • High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation for high purity. • Co-factor (NADH) recycle through by-product (formaldehyde) degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes the development of a Zn(OTf)2‐mediated method for converting α‐tertiary haloamides to the corresponding fluorine‐18 labelled α‐tertiary fluoroamides with no‐carrier‐added [18F]tetramethylammonium fluoride. 1,5,7‐Triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene is an essential additive for achieving high radiochemical conversion. Under the optimised conditions, radiofluorination proceeds at sterically hindered tertiary sites in high radiochemical conversions, yields, and purities. This method has been successfully automated and applied to access >200 mCi (>7.4 GBq) of several model radiofluorides. Mechanistic studies led to the development of a new, nucleophilic C−H radiofluorination process using N‐sulphonyloxyamide substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melt crystallization is considered a sustainable method for chemical separation and purification. In comparison to static melt crystallization, suspension melt crystallization offers significant advantages in terms of continuous operation and scalability. Understanding the principles of subcooling and impurity inclusion is crucial for designing effective suspension melt crystallization processes. This review focuses on the advancements made in suspension melt crystallization techniques over the past two decades, specifically in process modeling, equipment development, and applications. The review places particular emphasis on kinetic modeling of crystallization and provides an overview of equipment advancements and process intensification strategies for suspension melt crystallization. Additionally, by comparing its applications in traditional chemical industries as well as water systems (such as food processing and water purification), this review discusses both the distinctions and connections between suspension melt crystallization technology with other separation and purification methods. Finally, future prospects for the development of suspension melt crystallization technology are presented. • The kinetic advantages of Suspension Melt Crystallization (SMC) are summarized. • Emphasis is placed on equipment integration for the development of SMC technology. • Process intensification is highlighted for the industrialization of SMC. • The coupling of SMC with various separation and refining technologies is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typically, the X-ray diffraction spectrum of a highly oriented structure (HOS) MAX phase displays a prominent (002) characteristic peak. Surprisingly, this principle does not hold true for Ti 2 SC. Instead, the synthesized Ti 2 SC consistently exhibits a polyhedral structure (PS). Furthermore, even with hot-pressing sintering, the purity of Ti 2 SC remains relatively low. The primary factors contributing to anomalous crystal structures and low purity are insufficient crystal growth and limited reactant contact. In this study, we successfully achieved dual regulation of the crystal structure and purity of Ti 2 SC within the Ti/TiC/FeS 2 system, which was accomplished by enhancing reactant contact and controlling the growth rates of crystal planes. Notably, the intermediate products FeS and Fe, existing in a liquid phase at varying temperatures, played a crucial role in both the formation of Ti 2 SC and the growth of Ti 2 SC crystals. As a result, PS-Ti 2 SC and HOS–Ti 2 SC with purity greater than 99 wt% were successfully prepared. The formation of PS-Ti 2 SC can be attributed to the inadequate growth of each crystal plane at relatively lower temperatures (1500 °C). While the synthesis of HOS–Ti 2 SC necessitates the utilization of both a liquid phase and high temperature, as the epitaxial growth mechanism followed by vertical growth has been demonstrated to facilitate the generation of highly oriented crystals. The liquid phase facilitates the swift growth of Ti 2 SC crystals along the (001) crystal plane, while the (002) crystal plane necessitates a higher temperature (1760 °C) for relatively rapid growth. This work will open a new pathway for the development of the MAX phase from the perspective of crystal structure regulation and high purification preparation. [Display omitted] • The rationale behind the anomalous crystal structures in Ti 2 SC has been explicated. • The determinants governing the growth of individual crystal planes in Ti 2 SC have been identified. • Highly oriented structure Ti 2 SC was synthesized for the first time. • Two kinds of Ti 2 SC with purity greater than 99 wt% were successfully prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we present the simulation of a plant for the exploitation of renewable hydrogen (e.g. from biomass gasification) with production of renewable ammonia as hydrogen vector and energy storage medium. The simulation and sizing of all unit operations were performed with Aspen Plus® as software. Vegetable waste biomass is used as raw material for hydrogen production, more specifically pine sawdust. The hydrogen production process is based on a gasification reactor operating at high temperature (700–800 °C), in the presence of a gasifying agent such as air or steam. At the outlet, a solid residue (ash) and a certain amount of gas, which mainly contains H 2 , CH 4 , CO and some impurities (e.g. sulphur or chlorine compounds) are obtained. Subsequently this gas stream is purified and treated in a series of reactors in order to maximize the hydrogen yield. In fact, after the removal of the sulphur compounds through an absorption column with MEA (to avoid poisoning of the catalytic processes), 3 reactors are arranged in series: Methane Steam Reforming (MSR), High temperature Water-Gas Shift (HT-WGS), Low temperature Water-Gas Shift (LT-WGS). In the first MSR reactor, methane reacts at 1000 °C in presence of steam and a nickel-based catalyst, in order to obtain mainly H 2 , CO and CO 2. Subsequently two steps of WGS are present to convert most of the CO into H 2 and CO 2. Also these reactions are carried out in the presence of a catalyst and with an excess of water. All the oxygenated compounds must be carefully eliminated: the remaining traces of CO are methanated while CO 2 is removed by a basic scrubbing with MEA (35 wt%) inside an absorption column. The Haber-Bosch synthesis of ammonia was carried out at 200 bar and in a temperature range between 300 and 400 °C, using two catalysts: Fe (wustite) and Ru/C. As overall balance, from an hourly flow rate of 1000 kg of dry biomass and 600 kg of nitrogen, 550 kg of NH 3 at 98.8 wt% were obtained, demonstrating the proof of concept of this newly designed process for the production of hydrogen from renewable waste biomass and its transformation into a liquid hydrogen vector to be easily transported and stored. • Simulation of hydrogen production by gasification of waste biomass. • Full purification steps detailed with rate based units. • Ammonia synthesis loop based on multibed quenched reactors. • Overall mass balance: 550 kg/h of ammonia from 1000 kg/h dry biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, bed poisoning characteristics of CO 2 as gaseous impurity in the La 0.9 Ce 0.1 Ni 5 based, "Metal Hydride Hydrogen Purification System (MHHPS)" and regeneration of poisoned bed are reported. The study was conducted by varying impurity content of CO 2 gas in the H 2 –CO 2 mixture, in the range of 10–50% by weight and the cyclic stability of alloy was tested with 10% CO 2 in H 2 –CO 2 mixture. The study was conducted on a lab scale reactor with 6 embedded cooling tube (ECT) filled with 1.2 kg of La 0.9 Ce 0.1 Ni 5. According to the experimental outcomes, the MHHPS was capable of delivery 99.99% pure hydrogen for CO 2 impurity up to 20%. However, for higher impurities level (20–50%), the purity level was in the range of 97.3–99.8%. With CO 2 as impurity, significant drop in the absorption capacity of the MHHPS was observed, which was in the range of 0.92 wt% to 0.67 wt% for impurity of 10–50%. However, the bed regeneration was performed, wherein the bed was desorbed and evacuated at 95 °C and 10−2 mbar, followed by absorption of pure hydrogen at 20 bar and 25 °C. Within 2-3 regeneration cycle, the alloy got regenerated and achieved storage capacity of 1.27 wt% in 200 s. • Working of La 0.9 Ce 0.1 Ni 5 based H 2 purification system is reported. • Presents results on poisoning characteristics of CO 2 on hydrogen purification system. • Purification capacity and cyclic stability for 10–50% CO 2 impurity is reported. • Bed regeneration characteristics of La 0.9 Ce 0.1 Ni 5 is reported. • Gas composition analysis using gas chromatography is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen (H 2) energy meets the demand for green and efficient energy; therefore, hydrogen generation, purification, and separation are required. Membrane technology produce ultrapure hydrogen gas using less energy, allowing the process to run continuously. For preparing H 2 selective membranes, palladium (Pd) is a potential material because of its high affinity toward H 2 absorption. This work modified natural polysaccharide guar gum matric with natural chitosan polymer. The crosslinking of both the polymer improves the tensile strength and elongation at break (%). The composite polymer membrane enhances the separation performance of CO 2 /N 2 by 95.35% and CO 2 /H 2 by 34.29%. Further improvements in CO 2 /H 2 , the Pd nanoparticles are incorporated into the composite polymer matrix (GG/CH). The gas permeability data shows a drastic reduction in H 2 permeability by incorporating Pd-nanoparticles. In-room temperature, the selectivity of CO 2 /H 2 was obtained 13.06. The morphology of membranes and the presence of Pd nanoparticles in the membrane is characterized by SEM-EDS for confirmation of Pd nanoparticle. • Biopolymer (guar gum and chitosan) was used for fabricating a membrane. • The membrane was fabricated via the solution casting method. • The developed membrane is modified with Pd nanoparticle. • Implementing fabricated GG/CH/Pd MMMs for gas separation is explored. • The CO 2 /H 2 selectivity of GG/CH/Pd MMMs obtained at 13.06. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purification of valuable engineered proteins and enzymes can be laborious, costly, and generating large amount of chemical waste. Whilst enzyme immobilization can enhance recycling and reuse of enzymes, conventional methods for immobilizing engineered enzymes from purified samples are also inefficient with multiple-step protocols, regarding both the carrier preparation and enzyme binding. Nickel ferrite magnetic nanoparticles (NiFe2O4 MNPs) offer distinct advantages in both purification and immobilization of enzymes. In this work, we demonstrate the preparation of NiFe2O4 MNPs via a one-step solvothermal synthesis and their use in direct enzyme binding from cell lysates. These NiFe2O4 MNPs have showed an average diameter of 8.9 ± 1.7 nm from TEM analysis and a magnetization at saturation (Ms) value of 53.0 emu g–1 from SQUID measurement. The nickel binding sites of the MNP surface allow direct binding of three his-tagged enzymes, d-phenylglycine aminotransferase (d-PhgAT), Halomonas elongata ω-transaminase (HeωT), and glucose dehydrogenase from Bacillus subtilis (BsGDH). It was found that the enzymatic activities of all immobilized samples directly prepared from cell lysates were comparable to those prepared from the conventional immobilization method using purified enzymes. Remarkably, d-PhgAT supported on NiFe2O4 MNPs also showed similar activity to the purified free enzyme. By comparing on both carrier preparation and enzyme immobilization protocols, use of NiFe2O4 MNPs for direct enzyme immobilization from cell lysate can significantly reduce the number of steps, time, and use of chemicals. Therefore, NiFe2O4 MNPs can offer considerable advantages for use in both enzyme immobilization and protein purification in pharmaceutical and other chemical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Samples with porosities of 2–3 and 13% consisting of fine-grained quartz dispersed in a silver matrix were subjected to shock compression up to 28, 33, and 37 GPa in planar recovery ampoules. In samples with a porosity of 2–3%, after purification from silver, along with amorphized quartz, a crystalline high pressure silicon dioxide phase was detected by powder X-ray diffraction, which differs from stishovite and presumably has a monoclinic lattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of acoustic low-intensity oscillations in a homogeneous tube and in a tube with a conical extension is experimentally investigated for the same resonator volumes. The resonator shape is shown to have an effect on the oscillation spectrum and intensity and the pressure wave shape at constant values of the resonance frequency and the piston displacement amplitude. An increase in the resonator Q-factor is observable, when the resonator has a conical extension. An accelerated aerosol sedimentation in tubes is revealed in the case of acoustic oscillation with the resonance frequency. In the presence of a conical extension the aerosol drop concentration is reduced by a factor of 1.2 more rapidly than in the case of a uniform tube and three times more rapidly as compared with natural sedimentation. The results obtained can be used for increasing the efficiency of acoustic methods of gas purification from the disperse phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of heavy actinide targets, including 243Am, 240,242,244Pu, 245,248Cm, 249Bk, and 249Cf, irradiated by intense heavy ion beams of 48Ca has resulted in a significant expansion of the periodic table since 2000, including the discovery of five new heaviest elements and more than 50 new isotopes. These actinide materials can only be produced by intense neutron irradiation in very high flux reactors followed by chemical processing and purification in specialized hot cell facilities available in only a few locations worldwide. This paper reviews the reactor production of heavy actinides, the recovery and chemical separation of actinide materials, and the preparation of actinide targets for superheavy element experiments. The focus is on 248Cm, 249Bk, mixed 249−251Cf, and 254Es, including current availabilities and new production processes. The impacts of new facilities, including the Superheavy Element Factory at Dubna, accelerator and separator upgrades at RIKEN, and proposed upgrades to the High Flux Isotope Reactor at Oak Ridge are also described. Examples of recent superheavy element research are discussed as well as future opportunities for superheavy research using actinide targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kalanchoe pinnata is a species widely used in traditional medicine in Latin America and southern Africa. This species has been reported to have different activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic, the latter being related to its flavonoid content. The aim of this study was to contribute to the standardization of the aqueous extract of flowers from Kalanchoe pinnata. Purification of chemical markers was carried out by centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC). Stability tests under stress conditions were conducted for the extract by using the chromatographic profiles analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array detection (UPLC-PDA) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole-time of flight–mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS-QTOF), with quantification of flavonoids by a validated UPLC-PDA method. Physicochemical variables of the plant material were within the limits established by official guides. Thirteen flavonoids present in the extract were identified, the major compounds being quercetin 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside and quercetin 3-O-D-glucuronide, purified by CPC. A range of total flavonoids for the extract from 8–13% was determined. Finally, through stability tests, it was observed that the extract was stable in most conditions but evidenced moderate degradations upon acid and basic hydrolysis. Through qualitative and quantitative chemical characterizations, it was possible to chemically standardize the aqueous extract of flowers from K. pinnata, with a high content of flavonoids, under parameters required by the WHO and pharmacopoeias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quartz deposits are widely dispersed in nature, but the presence of ore bodies capable of yielding high-purity quartz is exceedingly rare. As a result, the effective purification and processing of high-purity quartz from natural siliceous materials has emerged as a prominent area of research within the non-metallic mineral processing field. This article offers an overview of the current state of research and its limitations in quartz purification and processing technology in China, including the characteristics of quartz mineral resources, the geological origins of ore deposits, impurity forms in ores, and purification techniques. Drawing from examples of five distinct types of quartz ores—vein quartz, powder quartz, quartzite, granitic pegmatite, and pegmatitic granite—we delve into the inherent properties of quartz deposits, ores, and minerals from a mineralogical perspective, establishing their link to purification and processing methodologies. A fundamental challenge restraining the advancement of the high-purity quartz industry is the absence of criteria for evaluating and selecting high-purity quartz raw materials. Existing purification technologies grapple with issues such as intricate single mineral liberation, substantial acid consumption, high energy requirements, and protracted processing procedures. The lack of mineralogically based deep purification techniques presents a hurdle to the development of the high-purity quartz industry. Given the diversity of ore types, the pursuit of knowledge-driven design and the development of economically efficient, environmentally friendly, and streamlined new technologies for tackling the complexities of the purification process may constitute the future direction of our endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have heightened concerns about air quality worldwide. Conventional air purification methods, reliant on chemicals or energy-intensive processes, fall short in open spaces and in combating emerging pollutants. Addressing these limitations, this study presents a novel water-film air purification prototype leveraging the adhesion between low-curvature liquid surfaces and air convection friction. Uniquely designed, this prototype effectively targets toxic gases (e.g., formaldehyde, SO2, NO2) and particulate matter (such as PM2.5) while allowing continuous airflow. This research explores the adhesion and sedimentation capabilities of a low-curvature water solution surface under convection friction, reducing the surface energy to remove airborne pollutants efficiently. The prototype was able to reduce the initial concentration in a 30 m³ chamber within 180 min by 91% for formaldehyde, 78% for nitrogen dioxide (NO2), 99% for sulfur dioxide (SO2), and 96% for PM2.5. Experimentally validated indicators—decay constants, CADR, and purification efficiency—enable a comprehensive evaluation of the purification device, demonstrating its efficacy in mitigating air pollution. This innovative design, which is cost-effective due to its use of easily accessible components and water as the primary medium, indicates strong potential for large-scale deployment. This study points to an environmentally friendly and economical approach to air purification, shedding light on a promising direction for enhancing indoor air quality. Further optimization and exploration of diverse pollutants and environmental conditions will propel the practical applications of this pioneering technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For an efficient indoor air purification, it is important to know the detailed airflow distribution in the room. A series of numerical simulations are carried out for five heating regimes using an air–air heat pump, capillary mat on the ceiling, capillary mat on the walls, heated floor, and radiator. The most homogeneous temperature field is obtained for the case with the heated floor. The highest velocity is obtained for the air–air heat pump, while the lowest is obtained for the capillary mat on the ceiling. A portable air cleaner based on the prototype device is introduced into the model and its influence on the velocity and temperature distributions is calculated. Our simulations additionally consider is the transport of an infectious aerosol and its purification inside the air cleaner. The time dependency of the concentration is exponential, and the purification rate depends on the air cleaner's orientation and heating regime. The efficiency is higher for a purifier with flow in the upwards direction compared to in a horizontal one. In the experimental part, an NaCl solution is dispersed into the air, and the efficiency of purification in the case of the air–air heat pump is evaluated by measuring the time-dependent particle concentrations. These experimental results corroborate the numerical model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macroporous-interconnected cryostructures are prepared via a cryo-process, where polymerization and internal crosslinking are primarily conducted at the sub-freezing temperature of the medium. Due to their unique and desirable properties, the potential of cryostructures has been examined in tissue engineering, cancer research, drug delivery, and sensors/biosensors. The macroporous cryostructures assist in trafficking cells, and the interconnected macropores provide a favorable environment for attaching cells during transplantation. These properties make such structures a great candidate for the preparation of three-dimensional (3D) systems suitable for the delivery of drugs, cell culture and tissue engineering, successive production of biomolecules, and purification of macromolecules such as proteins. Cryostructures have also been studied to improve the physical, chemical, mechanical, and release properties of controlled-release pharmaceutical dosage forms. In this review, we provide deep insights into the preparation and characterization of 3D cryostructures, discuss the factors affecting their properties, and elaborate on their contemporary biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a non-metallic material, high-purity graphite has been widely used in many high-tech fields and has become an important raw material for its production and processing. As the purity of graphite increases, its application value will also increase. Therefore, it is necessary to purify graphite. In this study, the natural flake graphite is purified by the additive-assisted alkali melting-acid leaching process to produce high-purity graphite. Alkali melting is the main process in the alkali-acid process. Therefore, this paper is mainly to explore the removal mechanism of impurities in the alkali melting process. First, the influence of various factors on the purification efficiency in the process of alkali melting is investigated. The fixed carbon content of graphite can reach 99.9815% and 99.9569%, respectively, when 4% (accounting for graphite mass) of sodium metaborate and potassium pyrosulfate is added as additives under the best process conditions. The results show that the crystal structure and morphology of graphite have no obvious changes. Compared with the traditional alkaline melting-acid leaching process, the carbon content of natural flake graphite can be increased to a higher level by an auxiliary alkaline melting-acid leaching process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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High-purity tellurium is a supporting material for contemporary high-tech industries. Zone refining is commonly used as a reliable final purification step to achieve higher purity levels of tellurium. However, the removal of Selenium (Se)—the most troublesome impurity in tellurium often occurring in quite high amounts—stays as the challenge during zone refining, due to its very unfavorable distribution coefficient. In addition, there is an important factor, essential to predict the zone refining efficiency (required number of passes), which is still seldom explored. Therefore, in the present work, the effect of different number of passes on the purification effect of tellurium was investigated by using 4N tellurium as raw material. Firstly, the possibility of removing vaporized Se through introducing an reductive gas flux was studied by testing initial concentrations of Se (13 ppm) and undergoing different process parameters. The experimental results showed that when the number of passes was 3, the impurity removal rate was low and the purification effect was poor; when the number of zone refining reached 9, the removal rate of most impurities in tellurium reached 100 pct, the removal rate of impurity Se reached 80.15 pct, and the total removal rate reached 89.49 pct, and the purity of tellurium ingot was 5N7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millions of people across the globe are severely afflicted because of water potability issues, and to proffer a solution to this crisis, efficient and cost-effective desalination techniques are necessitated. Membranes, in particular Graphene-derived membranes, have emerged as a potential answer to this grave problem because of their tunable ionic and molecular sieving capability, thin structure, and customizable microstructure. Among graphene-derived membranes, Graphene Oxide membranes have been the most promising, given the replete presence of oxygen-containing functional groups on its surface. However, the prospects of commercial applicability of these membranes are currently plagued by uneven stacking, crossflow delamination, flawed pores, screening and pH effects, and horizontal defects in the membrane. In addition, due to the selectivity–permeability trade-off that commonly exists in all membranes, the separation efficiency is negatively influenced. This review, while studying these challenges, aims to outline the most recent ground-breaking developments in graphene-based membrane technology, encompassing their separation mechanism, selectivity, adjustable mechanical characteristics, and uses. Additionally, we have covered in detail how several process variables such as temperature, total oxygen concentration, and functional groups affect the effectiveness of membrane separation with the focal point tilted toward studying the currently used intercalation techniques and effective nanomaterial graphene oxide membranes for water desalination [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-lived radionuclides in our environment provide important information on natural and anthropogenic processes. Their presence and concentration reflect the balance of production and decay. Geological archives store such information and the nuclides can be chemically extracted from the bulk sample. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) represents a sensitive method to quantify those nuclides at natural levels. Three different terrestrial archives are discussed here as examples for radionuclide extraction using various chemical separation methods for subsequent AMS measurements. We focus on sample preparation for the cosmogenic radionuclides 10Be and 26Al, various anthropogenic actinide isotopes such as U, Pu, and Am as well as the astrophysically interesting nuclides 41Ca, 53Mn, and 60Fe. The processed materials cover samples with masses between a few mg and up to a few hundred kg and protocols are presented for the quantitative extraction of some 10,000 atoms of cosmogenic or interstellar origin per sample and even as low as a few hundred actinide atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is still a common contaminant in water. In this work, we studied the Cr(VI) adsorption by polyphenol-rich bacterial cellulose(BC) gel, synthesized by the Komagataeibacter rhaeticus K15 using wine pomace. The results showed that the equilibrium removal capacity was 473.09 ± 1.41 mg g−1 (dry weight). The quasi-second-order kinetics model and the Langmuir removal isotherm model was the most suitable for describing the Cr(VI) removal process. Toxic Cr(VI) was converted to the low toxic Cr(III) during the removal process via the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) by polyphenols released into the solution by the BC gel. The FTIR, XRD, XPS, SEM-EDX results indicated the physical adsorption on the surface of BC and the reduction reaction between polyphenol groups and Cr(VI) is the critical mechanism of Cr(VI) removal by BC. The finding of this study demonstrates that polyphenols-rich BC gel produced from wine pomace has a superior feature for future Cr(VI)-wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]