Search

Ultraviolet and vacuum ultraviolet photo-absorption spectra of azido (–N3)-based energetic plasticizer, bis(1,3-diazido-prop-2-yl)-malonate (abbreviated as BDAzPM), in the gas phase is recorded at room temperature and in the photon energy range of 5.5–9.9 eV using a synchrotron radiation source. Complementary computational results obtained using the time-dependent density functional theory document the vertical transition energies and oscillator strengths. Comparison of the simulated spectra with the experimental absorption spectrum of BDAzPM reveals that the early part of the absorption spectrum of BDAzPM is of pure valence excitation character, whereas the later intense part of the absorption spectrum is dominated by mixed Rydberg and valence electronic excitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the catalytic conversion of real plastic waste-extracted phthalate plasticizers into benzoic acid (BA), via a one-pot hydrolysis–decarboxylation process based on inexpensive Cu2O and H-beta zeolite, in water as a safe and environmentally benign solvent. As a result of the excellent product selectivity in both reactions, BA was obtained in quantitative yields (>99%). Esterification of the purified carboxylic acid resulted in the production of an alternative benzoate plasticizer, with a total process yield up to 94%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel complex-shaped porous B 4 C supports were fabricated for use in ceramic membrane filtration applications, the processing of which is described in detail. Firstly, an extrudable ceramic paste was formulated and homogenised, containing a high content of B 4 C of super-coarse and ultrafine grades, plus water as liquid medium and various organic additives as thickener, binder, plasticiser, and lubricant. Secondly, tubular honeycomb parts (i.e. , cylinders of ∼26 mm outer diameter with 30 inner channels of 3 mm diameter each) were extruded at ∼25 bar and dried in air at 120 °C for 24 h, resulting in robust green B 4 C membrane supports without macro- or micro-defects. Thirdly, suitable debinding conditions were identified by thermogravimetry of the paste and its components, and the dry membrane supports were debinded at 700 °C for 1.5 h in high vacuum (<0.1 Pa) confirming that they retain their shape with minimal isotropic shrinkage (∼0.13–0.15 %). And fourthly, the debinded membrane supports were pressureless sintered at 2000 °C for 3 h in inert atmosphere undergoing only an additional 1 % isotropic shrinkage, resulting in B 4 C membrane supports with low apparent density (∼0.89(1) g/cm3), high porosity (∼38–39 %), open interconnected micrometre pores (in the range ∼0.5–16 μm, and d 50 ∼1.5 μm), and low skeletal density (∼2.455(1) g/cm3). Importantly, their only partial densification makes them both sufficiently strong mechanically (∼68(2) MPa compressive strength) and highly permeable to water (∼13131(418) l/(m2·h·bar) permeability at ∼1.3 bar). These attributes, together with the intrinsic lightness and durability of B 4 C ceramics, make these novel supports in principle very appealing for ceramic membrane filtration and other applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate and characterize the physical, mechanical, and molecular properties of gelatin films made from goat skin incorporated with konjac glucomannan. The study involved three treatment groups, labeled GG/KG1, GG/KG2, and GG/KG3, which included konjac glucomannan at concentrations of 0, 10, and 20% (w/w), respectively. Glycerol at 20% (w/w) was also included as a plasticizer. All samples underwent homogenization and ultrasonic treatment. The addition of konjac glucomannan to the gelatin-based film resulted in changes such as increased thickness (0.033 - 0.093 mm), opacity (0.9910 - 1.0433 mm-1), color L* (92.45 - 92.77), color difference (48.13 - 48.38), swelling (65.53 - 69.47%), and contact angle (86.92 - 127.85o). Conversely, a decrease was observed in water activity (0.521 - 0.463 Aw), moisture content (9.87 - 9.62%), tensile strength (0.0171 - 0.0118 N/mm²), elongation at break (5.91 - 4.52%), young’s modulus (0.0029 - 0.0026 N/mm²), WVTR (118.99 - 116.82 g/m². day), transparency (81.59 - 67.33%), and water resistance (34.47 - 30.53 %). Additionally, the peaks of amides A, B, I, II, and III exhibit both a shift and an increase in intensity, suggesting structural modifications and molecular interactions. The microstructure also indicated the presence of goat skin gelatin and konjac glucomannan cross-linked in the film formation. Therefore, the addition of konjac glucomannan modifies gelatin-based films, enhancing their suitability for food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysorbates are non-ionic amphiphilic organic compounds, widely used as surfactants. They have a molecular weight in the 1200–1400 g mol−1 range, so they are on the borderline between monomeric and polymeric plasticizers. Therefore, they can potentially provide the benefits of both plasticizer types. In this work, polyethylene glycol sorbitan monolaurate (Tween® 20), and polyethylene glycol monooleate (Tween® 80) are proposed as environmentally friendly plasticizers for PLA with enhanced ductile properties. The addition of 20 wt% of polysorbates into a PLA matrix, leads to a noticeable increase in elongation at break, from 4.0% (neat PLA) up to values around 180%. The plasticization efficiency was assessed by the decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg), from 61.0 ºC (neat PLA) down to such los values of 29.5 ºC, and 36.6 ºC, for plasticized PLA formulations with 30 wt% Tween® 20, and 30 wt% Tween® 80, respectively. Moreover, due to the high molecular weight of polysorbates, they are not highly volatile, which allows processing PLA by conventional extrusion and injection molding without plasticizer volatilization. This works widens the industrial applications of polysorbates, as cost-effective, highly efficient and environmentally friendly plasticizers for PLA with enhanced toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop biodegradable films by combining hemicellulose B (HB) with methylcellulose (MC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) at two mass ratios, HB/MC 90/10 and HB/CMC 60/40. The effect of plasticizers, glycerol (GLY) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), on these films' mechanical and physicochemical properties was also investigated. Results showed that the film thickness increased with the addition of GLY and PEG. Moisture content was lower in plasticized films, possibly contributing to better storage. Plasticizers also induced more pronounced color changes, intensifying the lightness and yellowness. Physical attributes such as peel ability, foldability, and transparency were also noticeably improved, particularly in films with higher GLY and PEG concentrations. Additionally, plasticizers enhanced the mechanical properties more significantly in the HB/CMC films, as evidenced by improved tensile stress, elongation at break, elastic modulus, and toughness. However, oxygen and water vapor permeabilities, two of the most critical factors in food packaging, were reduced in the HB/MC films with plasticizers compared to the HB/CMC counterparts. The findings of this study bear significant implications for developing sustainable packaging solutions using hemicellulose B isolated from agricultural material processing waste. These biopolymer-based films, in conjunction with biobased plasticizers, such as glycerol biopolymer, can help curtail our reliance on conventional plastics and alleviate the environmental impact of plastic waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic that has emerged as a suitable replacement of petroleum-derived polymers commonly used in packaging. In this study, it has been demonstrated that glyceryl tributyrate (TB) and triethyl citrate (TEC), non-toxic, environmentally friendly additives, can be effectively employed as natural, renewable, and sustainable plasticizers to improve PLA's thermal and physical properties, thus expanding its potential applications. The study initially investigates the impact of varying contents of these two natural plasticizers on PLA properties, identifying the optimal plasticizer percentage based on improvements in PLA performance. PLA/Starch composites were then formulated using the selected percentage of TB or TEC as plasticizers. The study further analyzes the relationship between sample morphology and their thermal and mechanical properties, as well as functional properties relevant to food packaging, such as transparency, water vapor permeation, and migration. PLA-TEC/Starch films exhibited the highest crystallinity and best barrier properties, which was attributed to the different affinities between starch and the plasticizers. Furthermore, the samples were transparent in the visible region of the spectrum but exhibited negligible transmittance in the UV-C region as well as a decrease of migration in isooctane. Therefore, these biodegradable and eco-friendly films show great potential as viable alternatives to traditional packaging materials, particularly for fatty and UV-sensitive foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers when confined to a dimension comparable to the length scale of polymer chain coils such as thin films, often lead to molecular relaxation processes distinct from their bulk counterpart. Often observed as thermal and mechanical responses such relaxation has been frequently associated with the squeezing of polymer chains having conformations trapped far from thermodynamic equilibrium and subsequently generating processing‐induced molecular recoiling stress. Relaxation in polymer films can be modified by tuning the molecular recoiling stress, which is directly influenced by the preparation conditions of the polymer thin films. Hence a comprehensive understanding of the genesis and relaxation of molecular recoiling stress becomes necessary. Here, we provide insights into the nonequilibrium nature observed in polymer thin films, focusing majorly on the investigations into the molecular recoiling stress using the dewetting technique. The impact of various factors like temperature of dewetting, thickness of films, molecular weight of polymers, and physical aging affecting the relaxation of molecular recoiling stress is discussed. In addition, discussions on the possible mechanisms of relaxation and modification of molecular recoiling stress by varying the spin‐coating speed and addition of plasticizers are also provided. An alternate approach which gives a new perspective into the relaxation of molecular recoiling stress considering the entropy generated during the dewetting of polymer films is also included. The present work is expected to give the reader a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of molecular recoiling stress relaxation occurring in polymer thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practice of cementing the bottomhole zone of wells in unstable formations shows that cement stone, designed to ensure rock stability, is the weakest link and can easily be destroyed under the influence of various loads. Such loads include perforation of the production string, hydraulic fracturing and other technological operations. The main factor contributing to the destruction of cement stone under dynamic loading is its low deformation properties. Repeated or cyclic loads cause fatigue phenomena in cement stone and lead to the formation and development of fractures in it. However, currently used cementing materials based on Portland cement have poor resistance to impact loads and low tensile strength. Therefore, the need to create an effective barrier with sand when cementing the bottomhole zone by developing reliable cementing compositions resistant to dynamic loads is relevant task. Therefore, task of current interest is the need to create an effective sand barrier when cementing the bottomhole zone by developing reliable cement compositions that are resistant to dynamic loads. One of the promising ways to protect the integrity of cement stone during perforation and hydraulic fracturing is to control the physical and mechanical properties of the cement material by adding various types of chemical reagents into cement compositions. The object of the study is cement stone created in the bottomhole zone of sand-producing wells. Here, a scientifically applied problem, the purpose of which was to increase the plastic properties of the cement slurry and increase resistance to deformations, as well as crack resistance was solved. In this regard, it is necessary to study the influence of various additives on the processes of formation of the structure, as well as other rheological and physical-mechanical properties of the cement slurry and stone. The studies carried out are based on the use of local raw materials and residual materials, as well as the correct determination of perforation time accordingly. In order to solve the problem, experiments in laboratory conditions were carried out. A special plugging cement of G-I-100 grade was used in the experiments. To achieve indicators aimed at improving the plastic properties of the prepared cement stone, plasticizers were used. The use of the Bentomix 1275 plasticizer in wells preserves the natural structure and filtration properties of the formation, which helps to increase oil production volumes. The Bentomix 1275 plasticizer accelerates the timing of putting wells into operation, and there is an increase in total and current production due to improved formation opening. The effect is due to the increase in the length of perforation channels in the formation due to the absence of fragments of cement stone, as well as an increase in the efficiency of fastening due to an increase in the structure in oriented zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To get better insight into the effect of plasticizer 1,5-diazido-3-oxopentane (AZDEGDN) on the decomposition of nitrocellulose (NC) binders, thermogravimetric and reactive forcefield (ReaxFF) simulation was conducted. The decomposition process of NC and NC/AZDEGDN was simulated at different temperatures (1000–3500 K), as well as the reaction path, main products, and decomposition mechanism. The main decomposition products of NC/AZDEGDN by ReaxFF were N2, H2, NH3, H2O, CO2, and NO2, and the main generation pathways were summarized and verified by the radial distribution function. The addition of AZDEGDN decreased the activation energy of NC and accelerated the decomposition of NC. Some molecules and fragments decomposed from AZDEGDN reacted with the intermediates of NC molecular chains and promoted the decomposition of NC. Meanwhile, NO2 decomposed from NC acted on AZDEGDN molecules to accelerate the decomposition of AZDEGDN. This study provides atomic insights into the decomposition process of NC/AZDEGDN, which may be helpful for further research on the reaction mechanism of energetic fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the semivolatile organic compound (SVOC) absorption through clothing and the skin. SVOCs are ubiquitous in daily life, in products like personal care items, plastics, and building materials. Understanding their permeation through the skin barrier is crucial for evaluating potential health risks of complete exposure. A PBPK model was developed to comprehend the dynamic interplay between SVOCs and human skin and to estimate tissue distribution throughout the body. The framework incorporated parameters such as skin permeability, physicochemical properties of the chemicals, and the impact of protective clothing and adsorbents. This model predicted the rate and extent of SVOC absorption under diverse scenarios. The PBPK predictions matched the experimental amount of mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), a phthalate metabolite, when urine samples were collected for bare-skinned and clothed participants. Urine concentrations of MEP during a 6-hr exposure and for the next 48 hr show that clean clothing effectively decreased dermal uptake and the buildup of chemicals in the body. Additional removal of MEP was achieved through adsorption on activated carbon fabric. An increase in the maximum monolayer adsorption capacity or the Langmuir equilibrium constant further reduced the amount of MEP in the urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic mechanical spectroscopy is a common analysis for polymers. Rectangular specimens are usually used for measurement in the solid state due to their easy designing. However, in reason of the non‐symmetric shape of sample, rectangular specimens do not experience linear stress on their all body, leading to overestimation of shear modulus. Corrections are required to determine the right shear modulus. In this present work, straight shear modulus determination is carried out using specimens with a cylindrical shape. The reliability of the technique is described on a biosourced polymer materials made of thermoplastic starch, plasticized by glycerol, choline chloride/urea mixture (ChCl/U), 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([EMIM]Cl) and 1‐ethyl‐3‐imidazolium acetate ([EMIM]Ac). The technique is shown to be particularly interesting to avoid any additional shaping of the specimens prior to measurements, that can be detrimental to their properties (evaporation, degradation). A comparison between cylinder and rectangular specimen has also been made to illustrate the interest of cylinder clamping on biosourced polymer material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based films have drawn significant attention owing to their potential applications in various industries. The application of wax to PVA films enhanced their resistance to dissolution and water infiltration. Nevertheless, waxed PVA films often exhibit inadequate mechanical properties owing to crack formation. In this study, we evaluated the impact of glycerol as a plasticizer in varying concentrations of Carnauba wax (CW). The addition of glycerol to the PVA/CW blend led to enhanced mechanical properties compared to the blend without glycerol. The functional group and morphology of the blends confirm glycerol compatibility with PVA/CW films. Glycerol was fully dispersed to form a consistent polymer matrix and equally improved the film's contact angle. Furthermore, the thermal property from differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis highlights the plasticizing effect of glycerol in PVA/CW films, potentially broadening their use in food packaging and wrapping applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, plastic contamination worldwide is a concerning reality that can be addressed with appropriate society education as well as looking for innovative polymeric alternatives based on the reuse of waste and recycling with a circular economy point of view, thus taking into consideration that a future world without plastic is quite impossible to conceive. In this regard, in this review, we focus on sustainable polymeric materials, biodegradable and bio-based polymers, additives, and micro/nanoparticles to be used to obtain new environmentally friendly polymeric-based materials. Although biodegradable polymers possess poorer overall properties than traditional ones, they have gained a huge interest in many industrial sectors due to their inherent biodegradability in natural environments. Therefore, several strategies have been proposed to improve their properties and extend their industrial applications. Blending strategies, as well as the development of composites and nanocomposites, have shown promising perspectives for improving their performances, emphasizing biopolymeric blend formulations and bio-based micro and nanoparticles to produce fully sustainable polymeric-based materials. The Review also summarizes recent developments in polymeric blends, composites, and nanocomposite plasticization, with a particular focus on naturally derived plasticizers and their chemical modifications to increase their compatibility with the polymeric matrices. The current state of the art of the most important bio-based and biodegradable polymers is also reviewed, mainly focusing on their synthesis and processing methods scalable to the industrial sector, such as melt and solution blending approaches like melt-extrusion, injection molding, film forming as well as solution electrospinning, among others, without neglecting their degradation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective type of polymer heat-insulating material (foams) based on reactive oligomers is casting epoxy foams with high technological and operational parameters. However, polyepoxide foams are highly flammable, which significantly restrains their application in the construction industry. The aim of this work was to develop effective methods for reducing the flammability of filling epoxy foams. In order to achieve the objective, the following objectives were addressed: determining the influence of the chemical nature and content of additive and reactive bromine- and phosphorus-containing compounds on the thermal stability, flammability and operational properties of filling epoxy foams, and the development of polyepoxy foams of reduced flammability with high-quality physical and mechanical characteristics. When estimating the flammability of epoxy foams, we used both state-approved methods and the methods described in scientific and technical literature. The thermal properties of epoxy foams were studied with the help of multimodular thermoanalytical complex DuPont-9900. The data on the influence of the apparent density of foams and oxygen concentration in the oxidant flow on the flame propagation speed on the horizontal surface of polyepoxy foams are presented. It was revealed that the chemical nature of amine hardeners does not affect the thermal stability and flammability of epoxy foams. It was established that phosphate plasticizers are ineffective flame retardants of foamed epoxy resin, and the chemical structure of additive organobromic flame retardants insignificantly affects their efficiency. It was shown that microencapsulated flame retardants are inferior in flame retardant efficiency to additive flame retardants. It was found that effective flame retardants for casting polyepoxy foams are phosphorus-containing oligoether methacrylate and epoxidized waste from the production of tetrabromodiphenylpropane. The results of this research will form the basis for the production of an experimental industrial batch of samples of pouring epoxy foams of reduced flammability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is a widely employed plastic across diverse industries and is often associated with plasticizers, additives that decrease the inherent rigidity and brittleness of the material. Conventional phthalate‐based plasticizers raise substantial toxicity concerns, encouraging the exploration of bio‐based alternatives. One such alternative is the inedible oil, cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), mainly composed of cardanol and cardol. Recent efforts have focused on developing a cardanol‐based PVC plasticizers but the isolation of cardanol involves time‐consuming, energy‐intensive, and costly steps, limiting its market competitiveness. This study aims to assess for the first time, the efficiency of cardol esters, synthesized using acetic acid and different fatty acids (octanoic acid and myristic acid), in order to evaluate the influence of the alkyl chain on plasticizer properties. The chemical structures of these plasticizers were fully characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy, and the mechanical properties and thermal behavior of PVC films plasticized with these additives were investigated. Finally, the endocrine activity was evaluated for cardol and cardanol acetates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript elucidates the preparation and utilization of liquid epoxidized natural rubber (LENR) with 50 mol% epoxidation level (LENR50) as a polymeric plasticizer for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), and further immobilization of the plasticizer in the plastic matrix through subsequent ultraviolet (UV)‐curing treatment. The plasticizing effect induced by LENR50 at 50 wt% loading was evident with a reduction of Tg from a high of 72.0 to 11.4°C. Positive enhancements were also documented in the mechanical properties of the LENR50‐plasticized PVC, specifically the big improvement in elongation at break and elastic modulus, from 106% to 430%, and from 646 to 7 MPa, respectively. The UV‐treated PVC/LENR film also exhibited superior resistance to migration compared with formulations with conventional plasticizers such as di‐2‐ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and triethyl‐2‐acetyl citrate (ATEC). A similar outcome was recorded in the leaching resistance test, where LENR50 had the best resistance to leaching in four different solvents (water, soap solution, ethanol, and toluene). The LENR50‐plasticized PVC film recorded the lowest weight loss following 24 h immersion in both hydrophilic and lipophilic solvents. The findings from this study suggest that LENR50 could serve as an efficient bio‐based polymeric plasticizer for PVC. Highlights: LENR as bio‐based polymeric plasticizer for PVC.Significant reduction in Tg and elastic modulus of PVC plasticized with LENR.UV treatment improved tensile strength and elongation at break of LENR/PVC film.UV‐treated PVC/LENR has superior plasticizer migration and leaching resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) burns easily and generates a lot of smoke during combustion. In order to improve the comprehensive performance of plasticized PVC, hydrogenated nitrile‐butadiene rubber (HNBR) with different degrees of saturation (88%, 94% and 99%) were melt blended with plasticized PVC. Compared to the plasticized PVC without HNBR, the glass transition temperature decreased from −10.6 to −26.0°C, the initiation temperature for thermal degradation increased from 272 to 281°C, the elongation at break enlarged from 316% to 477%, and the permanent set dropped from 72% to 61% when HNBR was added to plasticized PVC at a ratio of 30 parts per hundred parts of resin. However, this resulted in a weakening of tensile strength of the plasticized PVC. Additionally, in the cone calorimetry test, the total smoke production of the PVC/HNBR blends (from 18 to 22 m2) was lower than that of the PVC control (23 m2) and the time to ignition was increased from 26 to 32 s. As a result, PVC/HNBR is expected to gain popularity in the rubber and plastic pipe, wire, and cable sheathing industries. Highlights: Plasticized PVC improves thermal stability by melt blending with HNBR.All PVC/HNBR samples have excellent low‐temperature resistance.The addition of HNBR decreases the burning smoke density of plasticized PVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticizers are core components utilized in plastics processing. They are additives applied to improve and, in some cases, make possible the processing of a polymer. Thus, plasticizers have an impact on lowering production costs, improving productivity, and other properties of the polymer. Yet, there are issues related to the toxicity of phthalic-based components used in traditional plasticizers. One of the emerging alternatives consists of using raw materials from bio-renewable sources that have low toxicity, are more readily available, and are mostly biodegradable. Such starting raw materials can be used for the synthesis of bio-plasticizers which can serve as a feasible alternative to traditional ones. The large number of raw materials from renewable sources along with their chemical versatility offers a broad variety of reactions that can be performed to obtain various bio-plasticizers that can present efficiencies that are comparable to or even surpass those of petrochemical-based ones. Following that, this review is divided into five parts. First, the introduction provides the main concepts, importance, and progress of the development of bio-plasticizers. The second part covers the main types of plasticizers, compounds utilized, and commercially available bio-plasticizers. The third part discusses the mechanism involved with plasticization and how that process can be improved based on the plasticizer's chemical structure. The fourth part covers the main advantages of bio-plasticizers and the benefits they can offer for manufacturing. Lastly, the future perspectives and challenges within the field are discussed. Through that, this review provides detailed discussions covering the main aspects related to bio-plasticizers to facilitate the readers' understanding of the main concepts while also providing a vast number of reports from the recent literature to aid them in the generation of novel ideas. In this way, readers can potentially have novel insights to tackle the main current challenges related to the use of plasticizers in polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioplastic is a biodegradable and environmentally friendly material because it uses natural materials in the form of plant fibers. The plants with high fiber content can be converted to cellulose acetate as a raw material for bioplastics. Durian skin is a biomass waste that has the potential to be a raw material for bioplastics. Cellulosebased bioplastics are generally made by adding adhesives, plasticizers, and fillers. In this study, the manufacture of bioplastics used the cellulose acetate from durian skin with variations of plasticizer concentration, plasticizer type, starch adhesive, and chitosan. Glycerol and sorbitol were used as plasticizers with variations in concentration of 20%, 30%, and 40%. The mass ratio of cellulose and starch used was 1.5:1. Bioplastics were produced by adding chitosan, starch, and variations of plasticizers in each concentration which were achieved varying values in tensile strength, water absorption, density values, elongation values, Young's modulus, degradability, and different bioplastic surface structures. The best bioplastic result is bioplastic with 20% sorbitol concentration for a density of 0.852 g/mL, water absorption of 45.99%, tensile strength of 613.12 Kpa, elongation of 2.35%, and Young's modulus of 26090.21 Kpa. In addition, the degradation time without landfill has met the Indonesian National Standard (INS) for 45 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Independently‐manipulated optical encryption has attracted great attention due to its high security and multiple application scenarios. Although photochromic molecules have become preferred holographic display units, the integration of dynamic modulation both in hologram and fluorescence for orthogonal encryption is still challenged. Herein, a latticed holographically steganographic array is constructed by incorporating a plasticizer (tri‐o‐cresyl phosphate, TOCP) into spirooxazine (SO) based polymers, thereby modulating the isomerization rate and the UV‐fluorescence kinetics between SO and merocyanine (MC). The period to reach fluorescence saturated value for each information bit in the latticed device can be widely modulated between 60 and 1700 s. Based on the property, only through ultraviolet stimulation can array information gradually be converted from spatial lattice coordinates to holographic display time. Then, a hidden 3D image can be determined from rapidly updatable reconstructed hologram video with refresh rate 1.125 Hz by the above spatiotemporal dual‐encryption keys. This work provides a bright path for the ultra‐high safety steganography and adaptive stereoscopic imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films with excellent mechanical performances and high transparency, the demand for antistatic properties is becoming increasingly urgent in textile and electronic fields. This study compares the effects of 60 phr bis (2‐(2‐butoxyethoxy) ethyl) adipate (DBEEA) with other five equal amounts of plasticizers on the conductivity, electrical stability, transparency, and mechanical properties of plasticized PVC. The infrared spectra of plasticizers indicate that there are unique ether groups exist in DBEEA. Then the calculated solubility parameters suggest the good compatibility between DBEEA and PVC. For conductivity, the volume resistivity and surface resistivity of the PVC sample with DBEEA (PVC/DBEEA) are 107 Ω· m and 1010 Ω, respectively, which are both lower by 3–4 orders of magnitude than that of other plasticized PVC. For electrical stability, the results indicate that PVC/DBEEA placed in air still maintains lowest resistivities. Under 10, 23, and 30°C, PVC/DBEEA keeps high and stable electrical properties. The similar refractive indices of DBEEA and PVC resin prepared by suspension method indicate good transparency for PVC/DBEEA. Moreover, PVC/DBEEA still has good mechanical property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovations in chewable dosage forms provide solutions for swallowing difficulties faced by certain patient populations. Chewable softgel capsules (SGC) offer opportunities to expand the benefits of SGC, excelling in the delivery of lipid‐based formulations by optimizing the mechanical properties of the shell material without compromising industrial‐scale manufacturing. This study employs an original approach, with a target product profile that aims to combine processability and chewability, to develop optimized chewable dosage forms. Through a mixture design of experiments, key factors such as plasticizer content and the addition of acid‐modified thin‐boiling corn starch are explored, focusing on response parameters critical to achieving the desired properties of the capsule shell material. Optimal shell compositions—one starch‐free and another containing 9% w/w starch, with respective gelatin/non‐volatile plasticizer ratios of 0.81 and 0.67 are determined and evaluated by manufacturing chewable SGC at pilot scale using rotary die technology. The successful manufacturing and resulting capsules, which exhibit the intended properties, highlight the efficiency of this approach in striking the right balance between processability, soft texture, and quick disintegration time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the ways to turn concrete into smart concrete involves the incorporation of conductive fillers. These fillers should be evenly distributed in the matrix to enable the charge propagation necessary for sensing. To homogenize the mixture, typical surface-active chemical compounds are routinely employed. Unfortunately, their presence often negatively impacts the characteristics of concrete. In this work, we show that conductive multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) can be included in the concrete matrix by using off-the-shelf lignosulfonate-based plasticizers. These plasticizers showed a much-improved capability to disperse MWCNTs compared to other routinely used surfactants. They also prevented a significant deterioration of the consistency of the mixture and inhibited the acceleration of the hydration process by MWCNTs. In concretes with MWCNTs and lignosulfonate-based plasticizers, the mechanical properties were largely preserved, while the nanocomposite became electrically conductive. Consequently, it enabled evaluation of the condition of the material by electrical impedance measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-Ray micro-computed tomography (XCT) is used to reveal the micro-structural changes of banana pseudostem nanocellulose bioplastic due to a biodegradation process initiated in a formulated composting media that allowed the growth of aerobic microflora. The bioplastic itself was made of nanocellulose, which was isolated from banana pseudostem using the 2,2,6,6-Tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO) mediated oxidation method, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as plasticiser. XCT provided insights into the 3D structural change of the bioplastic identifying the degradation process at two scales. The results showed that the local thickness and roughness of the bioplastic increased after degradation, while the density of the material decreased. Enlarged voids and tunnels were observed in the material after degradation. The formation of these tunnels is attributed to the popping of internal PEG-containing voids because of the generation of gases, which after forming may further accelerate biodegradation by microbial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of toxic chemicals in US commerce has prompted some states to adopt laws to reduce exposure. One with broad reach is California's Proposition 65 (Prop 65), which established a list of chemicals that cause cancer, developmental harm, or reproductive toxicity. The law is intended to discourage businesses from using these chemicals and to minimize consumer exposure. However, a key question remains unanswered: Has Prop 65 reduced population-level exposure to the listed chemicals? OBJECTIVE: We used national biomonitoring data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to evaluate the impact of Prop 65 on population-level exposures. METHODS: We evaluated changes in blood and urine concentrations of 37 chemicals (including phthalates, phenols, VOCs, metals, PAHs, and PFAS), among US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) participants in relation to the time of chemicals' Prop 65 listing. Of these, 11 were listed prior to, 11 during, and 4 after the biomonitoring period. The remaining 11 were not listed but were closely related to a Prop 65-listed chemical. Where biomonitoring data were available from before and after the date of Prop 65 listing, we estimated the change in concentrations over time for Californians compared with non-Californians, using a difference-in-differences model. We used quantile regression to estimate changes in exposure over time, as well as differences between Californians and non-Californians at the 25th, 75th, and 95th percentiles. RESULTS: We found that concentrations of biomonitored chemicals generally declined nationwide over time irrespective of their inclusion on the Prop 65 list. Median bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations decreased 15% after BPA's listing on Prop 65, whereas concentrations of the nonlisted but closely related bisphenol S (BPS) increased 20% over this same period, suggesting chemical substitution. Californians generally had lower levels of biomonitored chemicals than the rest of the US population. DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest that increased scientific and regulatory attention, as well as public awareness of the harms of Prop 65-listed chemicals, prompted changes in product formulations that reduced exposure to those chemicals nationwide. Trends in bisphenols and several phthalates suggest that manufacturers replaced some listed chemicals with closely related but unlisted chemicals, increasing exposure to the substitutes. Our findings have implications for the design of policies to reduce toxic exposures, biomonitoring programs to inform policy interventions, and future research into the regulatory and market forces that affect chemical exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new approach to developing structural sodium batteries capable of operating in ambient-temperature conditions has been successfully achieved. The developed multifunctional structural electrolyte (SE) using poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) as a matrix integrated with succinonitrile (SN) plasticizers and glass-fiber (GF) reinforcements identified as GF_PEO-SN-NaClO4 showed a tensile strength of 32.1 MPa and an ionic conductivity of 1.01 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature. It displayed a wide electrochemical stability window of 0 to 4.9 V and a high sodium-ion transference number of 0.51 at room temperature. The structural electrode (CF|SE) was fabricated by pressing the structural electrolyte with carbon fibers (CFs), and it showed a tensile strength of 72.3 MPa. The fabricated structural battery half-cell (CF||SE||Na) demonstrated good cycling stability and an energy density of 14.2 Wh kg−1, and it retained 80% capacity at the end of the 200th cycle. The cycled electrodes were observed using scanning electron microscopy, which revealed small dendrite formation and dense albeit uniform deposition of the sodium metal, helping to avoid a short-circuit of the cell and providing more cycling stability. The developed multifunctional matrix composites demonstrate promising potential for developing ambient-temperature sodium structural batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticizers like dibutyl phthalate (DBP) are widely employed to achieve the progressive burning properties for oblate spherical propellants. A plasticizer can only plasticize nitrocellulose (NC) with a specific nitrogen content. Here, we tried to investigate the effect of nitrogen distribution uniformity on DBP deterrence process. Four nitrocellulose samples with different nitrogen distributions uniformity were chosen by a polarized microscope. The physical compatibility of NC with DBP was enhanced by decreasing both nitrogen content and nitrogen distribution uniformity. Raman spectroscopy proved that two deterred oblate spherical propellants possessed different permeation depths. The group contribution method revealed that low-nitrogen nitrocellulose was easier dissolved by DBP, contributing to the deeper permeation at the surface. Closed bomb test results further revealed that the oblate spherical propellants with deeper permeation depths had superior progressive burning properties and aging resistance. This study offers a new method to enhance the progressive burning properties and aging resistance of deterred oblate spherical propellants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because the commonly used phthalate plasticizers have adverse effects on the environment and health, there is a need to develop plasticizers with renewable material sources, non-toxic synthesis, and high plasticizing efficiency. In this study, an eco-friendly bio-based plasticizer, ALCE with excellent migration resistance was synthesized using linoleic acid (LA) and cinnamyl alcohol (CA) from biomass. The composition of ALCE was characterized and confirmed using FTIR and 1H NMR. The thermal stability, mechanical properties, and migration resistance of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films plasticized with ALCE were compared to those plasticized with conventional plasticizers di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DOP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP). The plasticizing mechanism of ALCE was elucidated through quantum chemical calculations. The initial decomposition temperature of ALCE-50 was found to be 43.66 °C higher than that of DOTP-50, making it more suitable for high-temperature applications. In tensile testing, PVC films containing 50 phr of ALCE exhibited an elongation at a break of 730.25%, demonstrating superior mechanical properties. Migration experiments also revealed that the migration quantities of ALCE were lower than those of DOP and DOTP. Overall, ALCE, as a plasticizer, enhances PVC's performance in various aspects and offers a new pathway for the development of eco-friendly plasticizers utilizing biomass resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine dust-phase phthalate levels in 112 dormitories of 14 universities during autumn and winter, investigate their potential sources, and estimate phthalate exposure via dust ingestion. Twelve phthalates were detected, among which di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP) were the most abundant, followed by di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). The median concentrations and contributions of DCHP and DEHP were the highest. The contributions of di-n-octyl phthalate and di-nonyl phthalate were higher in winter than in autumn. Potential sources included iron furniture, chemical fiber textiles, clothes, and personal care products. Medium-density fiberboard furniture is a potential sink for phthalates. In two seasons, DEHP, DCHP, DiBP, and DnBP were the main phthalates ingested by college students. The median oral exposure of ten phthalates was higher in females than in males. College students have a high risk of exposure to DEHP in dormitories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an important public health issue owing to its rising global prevalence. Phthalates cause various health problems and are currently regulated in developed countries. However, studies on the impacts of low-level phthalate exposure under these regulations on T2DM are limited. This study investigated the impacts of combined and single exposures to phthalates and their alternatives on the prevalence of T2DM in 3,005 adults in the United States. The results indicated a positive joint effect of phthalate mixtures on the prevalence of T2DM. The joint effect was primarily attributed to Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) metabolites, whereas the contributions of others were limited. This study suggests that, despite the stringent regulations on phthalates, low levels of phthalates, including DEHP, still have joint effects on T2DM. The findings highlight the importance of regulating hazardous phthalates and the need for safer alternatives to reduce public health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative plasticizers such as diisononyl-1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylate (DINCH), di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHTP), and di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) are progressively replacing phthalates in many consumer and professional products because of adverse effects on reproduction associated with some phthalates. Human exposures to these phthalate substitutes can occur through ingestion, skin absorption and inhalation. Skin uptake can lead to greater concentration at the target organs compared to ingestion because the skin exposure route bypasses the first-pass effect. Skin absorption studies are almost absent for these alternative plasticizers. We therefore wanted first, to characterize skin absorption of a mixture containing DINCH, DEHA and DEHTP in vitro using a flow-through diffusion cell system with ex vivo human skin, quantifying their respective monoester metabolites (mono-isononyl-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (MINCH), mono-2-ethylhexyl adipate (MEHA), mono-2-ethylhexyl terephthalate (MEHTP), respectively); second, to validate these results by exposing five human volunteers to this mixture on their forearm and quantifying the corresponding urinary metabolites (including the monoesters and their oxidation products). Our study showed that two of these alternative plasticizers, DEHTP and DINCH, did not permeate skin showing as quantifiable metabolite levels in vitro and only traces of DEHA were quantified as its monoester metabolite, MEHA. Permeation coefficient (Kp) 0.06 and 55.8*10−7 cm/h for neat and emulsified DEHA, respectively, while the permeation rate (J) remained low for both (0.005 and 0.001 µg/cm2/h, respectively). Participants exposed to a mixture of these three plasticizers did not have noteworthy urinary concentrations of their respective metabolites after 24 hours post-application. However, the alternative plasticizer mixture was completely absorbed after six hours post-application on the forearms of the human volunteers, and the urinary elimination curves showed a slight increase after 24 hours post-application. Further studies on skin absorption of these substances should follow the urinary elimination kinetics of these metabolites more than 24 hours post-application. We also recommend quantifying the parent compounds in the in vitro diffusion experiments. [Display omitted] • Urinary excretion of DINCH monoester was slow in skin-exposed participants. • DEHTP and DEHA monoesters were not detected in urine from participants. • DEHA permeated skin in vitro as its monoester. • DEHTP and DINCH did not permeate skin in vitro as their monoesters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using plasticizers to modify polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), modified PVA was used as the doping phase to prepare polyvinyl chloride/polyvinyl alcohol (PVC/PVA) composite films. The influence of PVA dosage on the hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, moisture permeability, and insulation properties of PVC/PVA composite films was analyzed. The results show that adding an appropriate amount of modified PVA can prepare films with excellent performance, good hydrophilicity, moisture permeability, and insulation properties. When the mass fraction of added PVA is 3%, the prepared films have excellent mechanical properties. Continuing to increase PVA, the mechanical properties of the composite films decrease. Compared with PVC film, modified PVC/PVA composite film has good air permeability, plays a good role in regulating temperature, and has a good effect on insulation and moisture permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

为了调查市售核桃油中氯丙醇酯、缩水甘油酯（GEs）以及邻苯二甲酸酯类塑化剂（PAEs）等污染物的污染水平和来源，对30个市售核桃油样品中3-氯-1，2-丙二醇酯（3-MCPDE）、2-氯-1，3-丙二醇酯（2-MCPDE）、GEs以及18种PAEs含量进行测定，并进行膳食暴露评估，同时，通过测定核桃油精炼过程中这些污染物的含量变化分析其来源。结果表明：30个市售核桃油样品中有22个样品检出氯丙醇酯或GEs，28个样品检出PAEs；3-MCPDE含量范围为未检出~1 259.86 μg/kg，检出率为70.00%，平均值为414.34 μg/kg，中位数为37276 μg/kg；2-MCPDE含量范围为未检出~717.82 μg/kg，检出率为6.67%；GEs含量范围为未检出~803.64 μg/kg，检出率为3.33%；PAEs中邻苯二甲酸二正丁酯（DBP）含量范围为未检出~3.39 mg/kg，平均值为056 mg/kg，中位数为0.47 mg/kg，超标率为56.7%，邻苯二甲酸二(2-乙基)己酯(DEHP)含量范围为未检出~11.64 mg/kg，平均值为1.53 mg/kg，中位数为0.60 mg/kg；超标率为30.0%，邻苯二甲酸二异壬酯(DINP)含量范围为未检出~6.10 mg/kg，无超标情况。膳食暴露评估结果表明，目前市售核桃油中3-MCPDE、DBP、DEHP的含量均处于安全水平，引起健康危害的风险较低。通过对核桃原油及精炼过程中核桃油的氯丙醇酯、GEs以及PAEs含量检测分析发现，PAEs主要来源于制油过程的外源迁移，氯丙醇酯以及GEs是精炼过程中的产物。随着脱臭温度的提高，PAEs含量降低，而氯丙醇酯以及GEs含量却急剧升高，说明精炼工艺与这些污染物的水平密切相关。综上，在核桃油生产中需要严格把控核桃原料的质量，同时改进和优化精炼工艺，以控制核桃油中氯丙醇酯、GEs以PAEs等污染物水平，提高核桃油品质。In order to investigate the pollution level and source of chloropropanol esters, glycidyl esters (GEs) and phthalates (PAEs) in commercial walnut oil, the contents of 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol ester (3-MCPDE), 2-chloro-1,3-propanediol ester (2-MCPDE), GEs and 18 PAEs in 30 batches of commercial walnut oil were analyzed and detected, and dietary exposure assessment was performed. The sources of these pollutants were analyzed by measuring the changes in the contents of these pollutants during the refining process. The results showed that among 30 commercial walnut oils, chloropropanol esters or GEs were detected in 22 samples, and PAEs were detected in 28 samples. The range of 3-MCPDE content in commercial walnut oil was from undetected to 1 259.86 μg/kg, with an detection rate of 70.00%, an average of 414.34 μg/kg and a median of 372.76 μg/kg. The content of 2-MCPDE ranged from undetected to 717.82 μg/kg, with an detection rate of 6.67%. The content range of GEs was from undetected to 803.64 μg/kg, with an detection rate of 3.33%. The content of di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) in PAEs ranged from undetected to 3.39 mg/kg, with an average of 0.56 mg/kg, a median of 0.47 mg/kg, and an exceeding rate of 56.7%. The content of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) ranged from undetected to 11.64 mg/kg, with an average of 1.53 mg/kg, a median of 0.60 mg/kg, and an exceeding rate of 30.0%. The content range of diisononyl phthalate (DINP) was from undetected to 6.10 mg/kg, and there was no exceeding standard. The results of dietary exposure assessment showed that the contents of 3-MCPDE, DBP and DEHP in commercial walnut oil were at a safe level, and the risk of health hazards was low. Through the detection and analysis of the content of chloropropanol esters, GEs and PAEs in crude walnut oil and refined oil in different refining stage, it was found that PAEs were mainly derived from the exogenous migration of the oil production process. In contrast, chloropropanol esters and GEs were products in the refining process. With the increase of deodorization temperature, the content of PAEs decreased, while the content of chloropropanol esters and GEs increased sharply. The refining process was closely related to the level of these pollutants. To sum up, it is necessary to strictly control the quality of walnut raw materials, improve and optimize the refining process, so as to control the levels of chloropropanol esters, GEs and PAEs, and improve the quality of walnut oil.

Electric heaters based on functional materials and innovative designs have been developed for various applications. In this paper, we propose a soft dielectric heater (SDH) using polyvinyl chloride-gel (PVC-gel) as the dielectric heater and hydrogel as stretchable electrodes. Under an AC voltage, the leakage current in the PVC-gel leads to continuous injection and discharge of charges, causing the polarized plasticizers and flexible PVC chains to vibrate and collide, thereby generating heat through dielectric heating. Furthermore, the SDH generates a uniform temperature distribution even under strains up to 400%. Besides, high transmittance over 86% across the visible range renders it suitable for wearable or skin-mountable heaters from an esthetic viewpoint. Its capacitor-like structure achieves a scalable design, enabling extension from a singular cell to a row/column addressable and pixelated array of heaters. The 5 × 5 SDH array can deliver varied thermal information and sensations while maintaining performance even when stretched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalate plasticizers are gradually restricted in PVC products due to the escalating demand for health and environmental safeguards. Here, novel poly(glycerol ester) plasticizers(PGE), were synthesized utilizing biomass-derived glycerol and 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid as raw materials via an esterification condensation reaction, with n-octanoic acid serving as an end-capping agent, adjustment of reactant ratios yielded PGE-1 and PGE-0.75, subsequently evaluated for their efficacy in PVC applications. FT-IR and GPC analyses elucidated potential structures and molecular weight distributions of the plasticizers, revealing oligomeric PGE with molecular weights spanning 1000–2000 g mol−1. Mechanical properties, thermal stability, dynamic mechanical analysis, and migration resistance of PVC plasticized with PGE-1 and PGE-0.75 were compared against those employing conventional plasticizers, including di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP), and acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC). The hyperbranched network structure and high molecular weight of PGE conferred superior thermal stability and migration resistance to the plasticized PVC samples. Notably, the T50% of PGE-1/PVC film surpassed that of films plasticized with DEHP, DOTP and ATBC by 107.92, 95.17 and 111.14 °C, respectively. The weight loss of PGE/PVC film in distilled water, anhydrous alcohol and petroleum ether was below 2 wt% during 48 h. Furthermore, the weight loss of each PVC film was below the safety value (5 wt%) during 10 d in three different food simulants. Overall, the obtained poly(glycerol ester) plasticizers exhibit promise as phthalate replacements, owing to their favourable attributes in human health and environmental protection. The poly(glycerol ester) plasticizers derived from biomass glycerol, 1,4-CHDA and n-octanoic acid exhibited superb thermal stability and migration resistance far more than commercial plasticizers in PVC, resulting from the hyperbranched network structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been established that the variation in the conductance of insulation made with materials of various chemical nature and physical structure (polyvinyl chloride plastic compound and varnished cambric) with a short-term exposure to a mold fungus has an S-shaped character. The unambiguous correlation of the induction period, the stage of rapid increase and the time to reach the quasi-stationary level of conductance with the induction period, the stage of rapid growth, the time to reach the maximum amount of biomass on the surface of the material is due to the sorption by isolation of the metabolic products of the mold fungus. The variation in conductance at short times of exposure to microorganisms (~ 1 month) is reversible. Removal of microorganisms from the surface leads to a decrease in conductance to its original level. With their longer exposure (~ 1 year), the change in conductance may become irreversible as a result of the biochemical decomposition of insulation components, in particular, dialkyl phthalates - polyvinyl chloride plasticizers. Features of the processes of changes in conductance are due to the duration of the growth of microorganisms, the nature of materials and their components. The growth of microorganisms depends primarily on temperature and humidity conditions. For materials with high water absorption (varnished cambric), the most important external factor is temperature, and for materials with low water absorption (polyvinyl chloride) – relative humidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Phthalates and their replacements have been implicated as developmental toxicants. Young children may be exposed to phthalates/replacements when using skin care products (SCPs). OBJECTIVES: Our objective is to assess the associations between use of SCPs and children’s urinary phthalate/replacement metabolite concentrations. METHODS: Children (4–8 years old) from the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes-Fetal Growth Study (ECHO-FGS) cohort provided spot urine samples from 2017 to 2019, and mothers were queried about children’s SCP use in the past 24 h (푛=906). Concentrations of 16 urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (푛=630). We used linear regression to estimate the child’s use of different SCPs as individual predictors of urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites, adjusted for urinary specific gravity, age, sex assigned at birth, body mass index, and self-reported race/ethnic identity, as well as maternal education, and season of specimen collection. We created self-organizing maps (SOM) to group children into “exposure profiles” that reflect discovered patterns of use for multiple SCPs. RESULTS: Children had lotions applied (43.0%) frequently, but “2-in-1” hair-care products (7.5%), sunscreens (5.9%), and oils (4.3%) infrequently. Use of lotions was associated with 1.17-fold [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00, 1.34] greater mono-benzyl phthalate and oils with 2.86-fold (95% CI: 1.89, 4.31) greater monoethyl phthalate (MEP), 1.43-fold (95% CI: 1.09, 1.90) greater monobutyl phthalate (MBP), and 1.40-fold (95% CI: 1.22, 1.61) greater low-molecular-weight phthalates (LMW). Use of 2-in-1 haircare products was associated with 0.84-fold (95% CI: 0.72, 0.97) and 0.78-fold (95% CI: 0.62, 0.98) lesser mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP) and MBP, respectively. Child’s race/ethnic identity modified the associations of lotions with LMW, oils with MEP and LMW, sunscreen with MCPP, ointments with MEP, and hair conditioner with MCPP. SOM identified four distinct SCP-use exposure scenarios (i.e., profiles) within our population that predicted 1.09-fold (95% CI: 1.03, 1.15) greater mono-carboxy isononyl phthalate, 1.31-fold (95% CI: 0.98, 1.77) greater mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl terephthalate, 1.13-fold (95% CI: 0.99, 1.29) greater monoethylhexyl phthalate, and 1.04-fold (95% CI: 1.00, 1.09) greater diethylhexyl phthalate. DISCUSSION: We found that reported SCP use was associated with urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites in young children. These results may inform policymakers, clinicians, and parents to help limit children’s exposure to developmental toxicants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paramagnetic A3B-type Mn(III)-porphyrin was synthesized and characterized by physical–chemical methods (UV-Vis, FT-IR, 1H-NMR spectroscopy). The obtained compound was tested as a sensitive material for the spectrophotometric and potentiometric detection of iodine species. Using UV-Vis spectroscopy, the triiodide anions could be detected with high precision in the concentration interval of 1.02 × 10−5 to 2.3 × 10−5 M, with an LOD of 9.44 × 10−6 M. The PVC-based electrode using DOP as a plasticizer showed a sensitivity toward iodide in a wide concentration range of 1.0 × 10−5 to 1.0 × 10−1 M, with an LOD of 8.0 × 10−6 M. Both methods are simple, low-cost, and efficient for the detection of iodine species in synthetic samples and pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of natural fibers has seen a significant rise in the composites sector, resulting in the creation of polymer composites with exceptional strength. These environmentally-friendly alternatives offer a compelling substitute for synthetic composites. This study explores the use of date palm waste as reinforcement for the fabrication of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites. A surface modification method was essential for improving the binding interaction between palm fibers and PVC composites. The two-hour benzoyl chloride treatment at 140 °C played a crucial role. The study examined the effects of hydrothermal aging on mechanical properties of composites, using various techniques such as surface morphology analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and Thermogravimetric Analysis, on composites made of untreated fibers and those treated with benzoyl chloride. Although the treatment of palm fiber-reinforced composites with benzoyl chloride improved their mechanical properties, it is crucial to note that hydrothermal aging reduced their tensile strength by 10%. Despite this, these composites prove to be well-suited for applications requiring moderate strength and stiffness in mild environmental conditions. These composites, while utilizing benzoyl chloride for surface treatment, still represent a more sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic composites by incorporating renewable date palm waste and enhancing mechanical properties, which potentially reduces overall environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the association between phthalates and total vitamin D levels and the link between phthalates exposure and subclinical inflammation using monocyte percentage to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR), utilizing three National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) survey cycles 2013-2018. This study is cross-sectional, utilizing one-time urine samples from randomly selected NHANES participants to assess phthalate metabolites. An inverse association between vitamin D and all Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites was found. The molar sum of DEHP metabolites was inversely associated with vitamin D (β −2.329; 95% CI −3.937,−0.720). An inverse association was observed between monocarboxynonyl phthalate and vitamin D (β −0.0278; 95% CI −0.0527,−0.00298). A similar relationship was found between monocarboxyoctyl phthalate and vitamin D (β −0.0160; 95% CI −0.0242,−0.00775). There was no association between phthalate metabolites and MHR. Stratified analysis showed that the association between phthalate metabolites and MHR may vary according to vitamin D status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the health and environmental concerns associated with the plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP), this research explores the utilization of methyl oleate (MO) derived from plant oil, 1,2,4‐Benzeneticarboxylic anhydride (TMA) and isobutyric anhydride (IA) as a precursor for synthesizing a hyperbranched polyester named IA‐MO‐TMA. This polyester serves as an alternative plasticizer for Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The chemical structure of IA‐MO‐TMA was thoroughly characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectra, and its molecular weight was assessed. The PVC film, plasticized with IA‐MO‐TMA, underwent comprehensive testing using techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Notably, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the plasticized PVC film exhibited a significant reduction from 75°C to −6.7°C. The plasticized film demonstrated an elongation at break of 318.1%, a tensile strength of 19.2 MPa, and a plasticizing efficiency of 109.9%. Moreover, the use of IA‐MO‐TMA as a plasticizer increased the initial decomposition temperature of PVC film from 235.6 to 264.1°C. Additionally, the extraction rate of IA‐MO‐TMA in petroleum ether was found to be 35.6% lower than that of DOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DL‐Isoborneol is a forestry chemical product that can serve as an intermediate in the synthesis of value‐added plasticizer products. In this study, three kinds of DL‐Isoborneol esters (octanoic acid‐DL‐Isoborneol, decanoic acid‐DL‐Isoborneol ester, and lauric acid‐DL‐Isoborneol ester [LDE]) with different fatty hydrocarbon chains were synthesized via esterification reaction. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT‐IR) and Nuclear magnetic hydrogen spectrum (1H NMR) indicated that DL‐Isoborneol esters were successfully synthesized. The oral toxicity experiment of plasticizers in mice indicated that DL‐Isoborneol esters have toxic doses of 5000 mg/kg and was environmentally friendly and nontoxic. DL‐Isoborneol esters were used as main plasticizers to plasticize polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and compared with commercial plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP). The results showed that DL‐Isoborneol esters could improve thermoplastic processing performance and thermal stability of plasticized PVC than DOP. DL‐Isoborneol esters and PVC showed more excellent compatibility compared with DOP. Tg of plasticized PVC reached 22°C, tensile strength and elongation at break of PVC plasticized with 40 wt% LDE reached 12.90 ± 0.83 MPa and 342 ± 13%, respectively. DL‐Isoborneol esters with improved migration resistance performance and plasticization efficiency can completely replace DOP as main plasticizers for PVC. Highlights: DL‐Isoborneol esters with different fatty hydrocarbon chains were synthesized.DL‐Isoborneol esters have toxic doses of 5000 mg/kg and are nontoxic.DL‐Isoborneol esters can be used as main plasticizer for PVC.Plasticized PVC with improved processability.DOP can be completely replaced by DL‐Isoborneol esters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The applications of alkali-activated slag (AAS) face challenges such as poor workability, rapid setting, and high autogenous shrinkage, which require chemical admixtures (CAs) to adjust the performance of AAS. Unfortunately, there are limited specific CAs available to tune AAS properties. To address this gap, this study proposes using a ubiquitous, naturally occurring compound, L-ascorbic acid (LAA), as a multifunctional performanceenhancing additive for AAS to overcome the major challenges of AAS. The findings showed that LAA can function as a retarder, plasticizer, strength enhancer, and autogenous shrinkage reducer for AAS. When 0.5% LAA was added, the compressive strengths of AAS mortars at 3 and 28 days increased by 28.9% and 19.6%, respectively, and the 28-day autogenous shrinkage decreased by 43.1%. Both surface adsorption and ion complexation have been confirmed as the working mechanisms of LAA in hydrated AAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Plastics Science & Technology / Suliao Ke-Ji is the property of Plastics Science & Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The increasing demand for sustainable packaging materials has driven the exploration of biodegradable alternatives to synthetic plastics. This study investigates the thermal and mechanical properties of starch-based films plasticized with varying concentrations of glycerol and sorbitol. Cornstarch films were prepared with glycerol and sorbitol plasticizers in different ratios, and their physical characteristics, including swelling index, water solubility, and thermal stability, were assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile testing. The results indicate that the incorporation of plasticizers significantly influenced the films' properties. Films with higher glycerol content exhibited greater flexibility and solubility, while sorbitol-plasticized films showed enhanced thermal stability. The combination of both plasticizers yielded films with balanced properties suitable for food packaging applications. This study demonstrates the potential of glycerol and sorbitol as effective plasticizers in developing biodegradable starch-based films, offering a promising alternative to conventional plastic packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrylic resins are one of the most important thermoplastic resins used in various industries due to their significant properties. However, they are inherently brittle and the addition of plasticizers to them is very common. In this study, the role of both Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) and Triacetin on the mechanical properties of acrylic resin has been investigated. To do so, tensile test, bending, and wear tests have been performed. To achieve the optimal mixture of plasticizers, a tensile test has been carried out, and the best percentage of the mixture has been determined. Subsequently, bending and wear tests were conducted, which showed a significant increase in the bending strength of the acrylic resin after the addition of plasticizers. Furthermore, it was found that the abrasion mechanism of the resin was significantly altered compared to its pure state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]