Article
Chemistry, Applied
Julian E. Sanchez-Velandia, Estefany Pajaro, Aida L. Villa, Fernando Martinez-O
Summary: Selective synthesis of fine chemicals from wasted derived biomass is a major challenge for the industry, and in this study, materials based on titanates proved to be effective catalysts for isomerization reactions of biomass derived alpha- and beta-pinene to obtain camphene. The density of acid sites, Bronsted acid sites, and catalyst architecture significantly influenced the catalytic activity, with titanate catalyst showing the highest yield for camphene. Furthermore, titanate-based materials were also capable of isomerizing camphene and limonene into valuable chemicals with good to excellent yields.
MICROPOROUS AND MESOPOROUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Adrianna Kaminska, Piotr Miadlicki, Karolina Kielbasa, Jaroslaw Serafin, Joanna Srenscek-Nazzal, Rafal Jan Wrobel, Agnieszka Wroblewska
Summary: The work demonstrates the synthesis and application of FeCl3-modified carbonaceous catalysts from waste orange peel for the oxidation of alpha-pinene in solvent-free conditions. The catalyst showed high activity and potential for sustainable utilization, making it a promising alternative in organic synthesis.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Marjan Nekoukhou, Sina Fallah, Lok Raj Pokhrel, Ali Abbasi-Surki, Ali Rostamnejadi
Summary: This study investigated the potential beneficial effects of foliar application of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) and conventional chelated-Cu on the growth and productivity of dragonhead plants in Cu-limited alkaline soil. The results showed that CuONPs had significantly higher efficacy in promoting plant growth, yield, and the production of bioactive compounds compared to chelated-Cu.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Maria Smyrnioti, Theophilos Ioannides
Summary: The study investigates the catalytic oxidation of dimethyl ether (DME) using copper ferrite catalysts synthesized via the citrate complexation method. The Fe0.67Cu0.33 catalyst showed the highest catalytic activity in DME oxidation due to its higher specific surface area and enhanced redox properties. The presence of highly dispersed copper species and the formation of spinel phase contributed to the enhanced catalytic performance.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Samar Y. Al-nami, Hussain Alessa, Ali Q. Alorabi, Omaymah Alaysuy, Ahmed Hameed, Nasser A. Alamrani, Salhah D. Al-Qahtani, Nashwa M. El-Metwaly
Summary: The present study constructed and characterized a novel voltammetric carbon paste sensor for penciclovir (PCV) fortified with iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs/CPEs). The integration of the electrode matrix with iron oxide nanoparticles significantly enhanced the PCV oxidation peak based on its electrocatalytic activity. The electrooxidation reaction of the PCV molecule was found to proceed through the oxidation of the terminal amino group of the guanine moiety with the participation of one electron and two protons.
MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Masoumeh Ghalkhani, Rasol Abdullah Mirzaie, Afrooz Banimostafa, Esmail Sohouli, Elaheh Hashemi
Summary: This study aims to enhance the efficiency of ethanol electrooxidation reaction (EOR) and overcome electrode fouling by electrodepositing ternary nanocomposites of copper, nickel, and iron oxides on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface. The GCEs were modified using three different procedures and activated by CV cycling in an alkaline solution. The best electro-catalytic efficiency was achieved by simultaneously electrodepositing nano Cu, Ni, and Fe2O3 on the GCE surface.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Meijuan Yuan, Xiaotian Guo, Nan Li, Huan Pang
Summary: By utilizing biomass materials, optimal catalytic properties for the urea electro-oxidation reaction were achieved, resulting in lower potential and higher efficiency for energy conversion.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jie Sun, Fan Xia, Shaoqi Zhang, Bo Zhang, Yunan Guan, Xi Hu, Pengpeng Xue, Shengfei Yang, Yan Zhou, Daishun Ling, Fangyuan Li
Summary: Cell cycle checkpoint activation promotes DNA damage repair and is associated with the chemoresistance of various cancers. This study reports a selective nano cell cycle checkpoint inhibitor (NCCI) that can inhibit the cell cycle checkpoint of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to enhance the chemotherapeutic efficacy. NCCI can selectively accumulate in AML cells and degrade proteins involved in the G2/M checkpoint, resulting in the revitalization of the anti-AML efficacy of cytarabine. This study provides new insights into designing selective cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors for biomedical applications.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Hao Zhang, Botao Fan, Longchun Bian, Qinghu Tang, Qiue Cao, Wenhao Fang
Summary: By modulating the calcination temperature of NiO, a Pt/Ni400c catalyst with excellent performance was obtained for the base-free aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid. The catalyst showed high conversion and selectivity under mild reaction conditions.
CATALYSIS COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Giulia Siciliano, Antonio Turco, Anna Grazia Monteduro, Elisabetta Fanizza, Alessandra Quarta, Roberto Comparelli, Elisabetta Primiceri, M. Lucia Curri, Nicoletta Depalo, Giuseppe Maruccio
Summary: The removal of pollutants from water remains a challenge. Adsorption-based techniques, specifically polydopamine-coated magnetic nanoparticles, have shown promise for the removal of heavy metals. In this study, polydopamine-coated Super Paramagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (PDA@SPIONs) were synthesized and evaluated for their ability to bind and remove Cu2+ ions from water by applying a magnetic field. The results indicate that these nanostructures hold great potential for future bioremediation applications.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Weijie Li, Guangjun Wu, Wende Hu, Jian Dang, Chuanming Wang, Xuefei Weng, Ivan da Silva, Pascal Manuel, Sihai Yang, Naijia Guan, Landong Li
Summary: This study presents a novel method for constructing uniform cobalt ions confined in faujasite zeolite (Co@Y), which exhibits unprecedented catalytic performance in the aerobic epoxidation of propylene. The Co@Y catalyst shows high conversion and selectivity, as well as excellent stability.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Shurui Guo, Mingqin Jiang, Jiajiang Lin, Nasreen Islam Khan, Gary Owens, Zuliang Chen
Summary: This study found that the availability of arsenic (As) in soil is closely related to the presence of iron (Fe) oxides and humic acid (HA). However, the relationship between Fe oxides and HA and As species is not well understood. The experiment showed that As(V) is mainly distributed to certain bound forms of Fe and Al oxides, while As(III) is mainly found in the residual fraction. The addition of HA and green synthesized Fe oxide nanoparticles (FeNPs) affected the distribution of As species in the soil, with HA/FeNPs treatment increasing As(V) in certain bound forms and decreasing As(III) in the residual fraction. The study proposed a mechanism involving the combination of HA and FeNPs to explain the redistribution of As species in the soil.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Vera Haagen, Jakob Iser, Markus Schoerner, Dennis Weber, Tanja Franken, Peter Wasserscheid, Patrick Schuehle
Summary: This contribution presents a new efficient two-stage production route for green methanol from biomass. The hydrogenolysis step is focused on and a materials solution is proposed to solve the problem of catalyst corrosion caused by the acidic mixture formed in the previous biomass oxidation step. Cu0.9Al2O4 spinel materials are found to be effective catalysts with lower corrosion compared to commercial catalysts such as CuO/Cr2O3.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vera Alexandra Spirescu, Cristina Chircov, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu, Bogdan Stefan Vasile, Ecaterina Andronescu
Summary: The development of drug-resistant microorganisms poses a critical challenge to modern medicine and drug discovery, necessitating innovative strategies to combat global health issues. Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles have shown promise as effective nanobiocides and nanocarriers for antimicrobial drugs, offering potential solutions to combat infections.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Wei Xiong, Xiang-Kui Gu, Zhenhua Zhang, Peng Chai, Yijing Zang, Zongyou Yu, Dan Li, Hui Zhang, Zhi Liu, Weixin Huang
Summary: The study successfully utilized 27 nm-sized cubic Cu2O nanocrystals as catalysts for propylene epoxidation, achieving a propylene oxide selectivity of over 80%. The reaction occurring at the {110} edge sites reduced the reaction temperature and increased propylene oxide selectivity, highlighting the importance of catalyst design for enhancing selectivity in propylene epoxidation reactions.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Anthony Chidi Ezika, Emmanuel Rotimi Sadiku, Gbolahan Joseph Adekoya, Yskandar Hamam, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: This study calculated the elastic modulus and electrical conductivity of a MX/PPy nanocomposite electrode and optimized them using the response surface methodology. The results showed that the suggested finite element model could accurately predict the electrical conductivity and elastic modulus of the MX/PPy electrodes, making them viable for metal-ion batteries.
POLYMER ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jonathan Tersur Orasugh, Valentine Saasa, Suprakas Sinha Ray, Bonex Mwakikunga
Summary: A series of graphene oxide@cellulose nanocrystal (GO@CNC) nanoparticles were synthesized using a modified hummers process. The nanoparticles exhibited crystallite grains with different sizes and -OH & -COOH functionalities on their surfaces. The GO@CNC nanoparticles showed significantly improved sensing characteristics towards acetone compared to virgin GO nanoplatelets, with GO3@CNC3 NPs showing the highest response at 5 ppm and a detection limit of 5 ppm, making them a viable candidate for diabetes breath testing.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Tanyaradzwa S. Muzata, Amanuel Gebrekrstos, Jonathan Tersur Orasugh, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: Polymers are extensively used materials in everyday life due to their competitive price, ease of processability, and rust resistance. However, consistent exposure to UV radiation can cause degradation and discoloration of polymeric materials. To improve the UV-shielding properties, various polymer composites containing inorganic and organic nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed, but challenges such as degradation and agglomeration need to be addressed.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Karabo Innocent Matumba, Mpho Phillip Motloung, Vincent Ojijo, Suprakas Sinha Ray, Emmanuel Rotimi Sadiku
Summary: This study investigated the effect of Joncryl concentration on the properties of PLA/PCL and PLA/PEG blends. The addition of Joncryl influenced the properties of both blends, with reduced droplet size and improved compatibility observed in PLA/PCL blends, and the presence of a co-continuous morphology in PLA/PEG blends at certain Joncryl loadings. Joncryl addition also decreased the crystallinity of PCL and PEG in the blends. The thermal stabilities and mechanical properties of the blends were shown to be dependent on the Joncryl concentration.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Rashi Gusain, Neeraj Kumar, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: This review article focuses on the research progress of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in wastewater treatment and energy storage, specifically on 3D-printed hydrogels and aerogels. Different 3D printing methods such as direct ink writing, digital light processing, and fused filament fabrication are discussed, highlighting the important results in adsorption, photocatalysis, membrane filtration, and desalination for wastewater treatment, as well as supercapacitors and batteries for energy storage applications. The article concludes with the future opportunities of 3D-printed hydrogels and aerogels in wastewater treatment and energy storage. Overall, the fundamental knowledge and critical assessment of 3D-printed hydrogels and aerogels in water treatment and energy storage provide guidance for future studies in smart materials and waste management for sustainability.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Abhinandan Singha Roy, Marinda de Beer, Sreejarani Kesavan Pillai, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: The utilization of slow-release fertilizer materials capable of responding to their environment and releasing nutrient ions efficiently over a prolonged period is an emerging research area in agricultural materials sciences. In this study, layered materials were prepared and tested for their ability to release phosphor ions (P) slowly into the soil and hydroponic system. The results showed that the prepared materials demonstrated a slow release of P in the soil solution and had a positive impact on dry matter production and P content in dry matter in the soil system.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Abhinandan Singha Roy, Sreejarani Kesavan Pillai, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: Nitrate-loaded Zn/Al, Mg/Al, and Mg-Zn/Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were synthesized for slow-release of nitrate ions. Sodium alginate was used to encapsulate Mg/Al LDH to further slow down the release. The slow release properties of LDHs were evaluated in tap water, soil solution, and plant growth experiments. The LDHs were found to supply adequate nitrate to plants while maintaining availability over extended periods, and also demonstrated the ability to increase soil pH.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jonathan Tersur Orasugh, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) systems have gained significant attention due to the rapid development in electronics and telecommunications, posing a concern in modern society. The combination of magnetic alloys and conducting nonmagnetic materials, such as carbon/graphene, is a practical approach for EMI SE.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Mpho Phillip Motloung, Tladi Gideon Mofokeng, Jayita Bandyopadhyay, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: The impact of incorporating chitin in PBS/HAP composites on their mechanical and thermal properties, as well as soil degradation characteristics, was investigated. Chitin was found to improve the soil degradation characteristics and melt strength of the composites, while decreasing their elongation at break.
MACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Lesego Tabea Temane, Jonathan Tersur Orasugh, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) or polylactide (PLA) is a potential replacement for petrochemically made plastics, but its flammability and propensity to flow in a fire have limited its use. Research has focused on developing new flame-retardants for PLA, with a recent emphasis on two-dimensional nanosystems and their composites. The addition of 2D nanoparticles reduces the flammability of PLA by forming a barrier layer that blocks the transfer of volatile gases, oxygen, and heat.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Adrija Ghosh, Jonathan Tersur Orasugh, Suprakas Sinha Ray, Dipankar Chattopadhyay
Summary: Efficient and adaptable electrospinning technology can produce porous structures with sizes between the submicrometer and nanometerscales. Combining electrospinning with 3D printing or additive manufacturing provides a flexible technique for digitally controlled shape-morphing fabrication. The integration of configurations allows for complex shapes and patterns on mesostructured, stimulus-responsive fabrics. This review discusses the synergy between 3D printing and electrospinning for advanced applications in biomedicine.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ritima Banerjee, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: This review provides an overview of the role of rheology in polymer processing, emphasizing its importance in the development, characterization, and assessment of polymeric material morphologies. It also offers ideas for improving the processabilities of these materials in advanced processing operations.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Neeraj Kumar, Rashi Gusain, Mike Masukume, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Article
Energy & Fuels
Neeraj Kumar, Rashi Gusain, Mike Masukume, Suprakas Sinha Ray
Summary: The occurrence of pharmaceutical pollutants in the environment is a growing concern and effective strategies for their elimination are needed. Photocatalysis has been recommended as an efficient approach, and in this study, a boron-oxide-decorated nitrogen-rich reduced graphene oxide (B2O3/N-rGO) nanocomposite is synthesized and characterized for its photocatalytic performance toward ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation. The results show that the B2O3/N-rGO nanocomposite demonstrates significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity compared to N-rGO and pure B2O3, making it a promising material for environmental remediation and energy-related applications.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Orielia Pria Egambaram, Sreejarani Kesavan Pillai, Suprakas Sinha Ray, Marlize Goosen, Antonio Vassallo
Summary: Organic UV filters generate harmful by-products and undergo photoreactive degradation, posing a threat to sunscreen users. Inorganic UV filters like TiO2 and ZnO have photocatalytic properties and can generate reactive oxygen species, making them not entirely safe options. A study investigated the influence of different metal ions on the photochemical properties of layered double hydroxides (LDH) and their potential in photoprotection. The results showed that Zn-Ti and Zn-Al LDH with intermediate band gaps offered lower photo-reactivity and promising UV protection in cosmetic formulations.