Article
Environmental Sciences
Targol Teymourian, Mohammad Reza Alavi Moghaddam, Elaheh Kowsari
Summary: In this study, two novel nanocomposites, GO-Gly/HNTs and GO-GG/HNTs, were successfully synthesized using ionic liquid as a green solvent for the removal of Pb(II) from water. These nanocomposites exhibited good adsorption capacity for Pb(II) removal and could be recycled for multiple cycles. They also showed selective adsorption towards Pb(II) in the presence of other pollutants. The presence of certain ions improved the Pb(II) removal. The synthesis and characterization of these nanocomposites provide valuable insights for the development of effective adsorbents for water treatment.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jiawei Huang, Linhong Chen, Ming Huang, Mingxian Liu
Summary: The application of nanotechnology in agrochemicals release can effectively reduce fertilizer usage and improve utilization. Urea was successfully intercalated into halloysite by solid-phase milling, and the maximum loading was 14.99 ± 1.33 wt%. Urea-Hal-sodium alginate hydrogel beads were fabricated by crosslinking, which showed good water retention and slow release properties. The release time of urea in the hydrogel was 60 times longer compared to pure urea. The hydrogel has a promising future in slow-release fertilizers for modern agriculture.
APPLIED CLAY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Konala Akhila, Dakuri K. Ramakanth, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: This study developed bioactive antioxidant films based on guar gum/carboxymethyl cellulose incorporated with halloysite-nanotubes (HNT) and litchi shell extract (LSE). The addition of LSE notably increased the UV-light barrier properties and antioxidant activity of the films.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Mohamed S. Sheteiwy, Ahmed M. El-Sawah, Yoshihiro Kobae, Farwa Basit, Paul Holford, Haishui Yang, Ali El-Keblawy, Ghada G. Abdel-Fattah, Shucai Wang, Jose Luis Araus, Shereen Magdy Korany, Emad A. Alsherif, Hamada AbdElgawad
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the individual and combined effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Bradyrhizobium on the growth, yield, and nutritional quality of guar plants. The results showed that inoculation with AMF and/or Bradyrhizobium improved the chemical composition and morpho-physiological traits of guar seeds and leaves. Furthermore, the inoculation increased the mineral, fiber, lipid, crude protein, and ash contents of guar, as well as the production of sugars, organic acids, amino acids, and fatty acids. This study sheds light on how AMF and Bradyrhizobium enhance guar yield and metabolism, and suggests that their combined inoculation is an innovative approach to improve the growth, yield, and quality of guar.
FOOD RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jiawei Lu, Yongfu Li, Yanjiang Cai, Peikun Jiang, Bing Yu
Summary: In this study, a new type of slow-release fertilizer with high water retention, named HS-BCF, was fabricated by incorporating hydrotalcite and starch into traditional biochar-based compound fertilizers (BCF). The results showed that the incorporation of hydrotalcite and starch into BCF significantly increased the soil water-retention ratio and reduced the leaching of nutrients. Kinetic analysis revealed that the release of nutrients from HS-BCF was attributed to the coupling of the diffusion-controlled and relaxation-controlled mechanism. The pot experiments demonstrated that HS-BCF had higher N-P-K utilization efficiencies compared to BCF due to better synchronization between nutrient release and plant uptake.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Sabia Kouser, Ashwini Prabhu, Sareen Sheik, Kalappa Prashantha, G. K. Nagaraja, Josline Neetha D'souza, K. Meghana Navada, D. J. Manasa
Summary: In this study, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were functionalized with sodium alginate and incorporated into poly(caprolactone) (PCL) to fabricate nanocomposite films for potential wound healing applications. The films exhibited enhanced thermal and mechanical properties, along with good cytocompatibility and fibroblast cell migration capabilities. The results suggest that the synthesized nanocomposite films hold promise for effective wound healing applications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Aoi Nakashima, Kaho Kohori, Kazuya Yamamoto, Jun-ichi Kadokawa
Summary: Chitin hexanoate-graft-poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (ChHex-g-PCL) was found to be thermoplastic, and the thermoplasticity was confirmed by the formation of a melt-pressed film. Chitin hexanoates were prepared by hexanoylation of chitin and then the surface-initiated ring-opening graft polymerization of epsilon-caprolactone was conducted to graft PCL chains onto the hydroxy groups of chitin hexanoates. The molar substitution and degree of polymerization of the PCL graft chains were influenced by the catalyst, reaction time, and degree of substitution.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Fahad Alam, Pawan Verma, Walaa Mohammad, Jeremy Teo, K. M. Varadarajan, S. Kumar
Summary: In this study, a novel nanocomposite scaffold was developed using additive manufacturing technology, with optimized bioactivity, biodegradation, and cytocompatibility of PLA/PCL/HNT material demonstrated for potential bone replacement and regeneration applications.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ram Kumar Anushikha, Ram Kumar Deshmukh, Praveen Kumar Kunam, Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad
Summary: This study investigates the potential of incorporating micro-fibrillated cellulose and halloysite nanotubes into guar gum films for active antioxidant food packaging. The results show that the addition of micro-fibrillated cellulose and halloysite nanotubes improves the properties of the films, including thermal stability and antioxidant activity.
SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Targol Teymourian, Mohammad Reza Alavi Moghaddam, Elaheh Kowsari
Summary: Novel nanocomposites, GO-Gly/HNTs and GO-GG/HNTs, were successfully synthesized and demonstrated great adsorption capacity for Pb(II) removal. They can be recycled and have selective tendency towards Pb(II) in the presence of other pollutants. The presence of certain ions can also improve Pb(II) removal efficiency.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Manabendra Dhua, Kalyan Kumar Sen, Sabyasachi Maiti
Summary: The properties of polysaccharide-based hydrogels can be modified by developing an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) for controlled drug delivery. This study found that a viscous, highly carboxylated xanthan (CX) gum could serve as an additive in the design of IPN hydrogel beads, effectively controlling drug release in simulated gastrointestinal conditions.
JOURNAL OF VINYL & ADDITIVE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Yutthana Wongnongwa, Setsiri Haesuwannakij, Kwanchanok Udomsasporn, Phongnarin Chumsaeng, Anucha Watcharapasorn, Khamphee Phomphrai, Siriporn Jungsuttiwong
Summary: Polymerization of biodegradable lactide and lactone has been extensively investigated. Density functional theory calculations were used to study the initiation and first propagation for ring-opening polymerization mechanisms of L-lactide (LA) and e-caprolactone (CL) on aluminum complexes. The results showed that the ROP mechanisms of LA and CL on different catalysts were classified into homopolymerization and copolymerization. The understanding gained in this study could contribute to the development of high-performance catalysts for biodegradable lactide and lactone ROP reactions.
Article
Polymer Science
Chun-Juei Chang, Wei Lee, Yu-Chi Liou, Yu-Lun Chang, Yi-Chun Lai, Shangwu Ding, Hsuan-Ying Chen, Hsing-Yin Chen, Yung-Chi Chang
Summary: The study demonstrated that dinuclear aluminum complexes exhibited higher catalytic activity than mononuclear aluminum complexes, particularly those with 1,3-substituted phenyl ligands. One Al atom in the dinuclear Al system acted as an electron-withdrawing group, influencing the other Al atom through associated aromatic ligands, thereby enhancing catalytic activity for the ROP of CL.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ahmed Abd El-Fattah, Elizabeth Grillo Fernandes, Federica Chiellini, Emo Chiellini
Summary: Amphiphilic copolymers with interesting architecture and tunable properties are promising materials for biomedical applications. Enzymatic catalysis provides a suitable alternative for the preparation of these materials without the use of toxic catalysts. The structure-property relationship of copolymers was studied by varying the molecular weight of Pluronic (EPE) and the molar ratios between ε-caprolactone monomer and EPE macro-initiator (M/In). The obtained copolymers were chemically characterized and their morphologies evaluated. The results showed a correlation between the differential scanning calorimetry data and X-ray diffraction data, suggesting the importance of the central block length in crystal formation. Preliminary cytotoxicity experiments confirmed the non-toxic nature of the copolymers.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Nan Zhang, Zhensheng Tian, Yuanyuan Yu, Ping Wang, Man Zhou, Qiang Wang
Summary: In this study, a novel printing thickener, NaAlg-g-PAA, was successfully synthesized via grafting modification method, which improved the properties of sodium alginate and exhibited better performance. This approach provides an efficient and promising way for modifying polysaccharides and could serve as an alternative to conventional chemical modification.
COLORATION TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Abir Mzibra, Abderrahim Aasfar, Redouane Benhima, Mehdi Khouloud, Rachid Boulif, Allal Douira, Ahmed Bamouh, Issam Meftah Kadmiri
Summary: Polysaccharides extracted from seaweeds can act as plant biostimulants. This study evaluated the effects of Polysaccharide Enriched Extracts (PEEs) obtained from Moroccan seaweeds on tomato seed germination and plant growth. Results showed that PEEs can significantly increase germination percentage and speed, while reducing mean germination time. Application of higher concentrations of PEEs also enhanced plant dry weight and chlorophyll content.
JOURNAL OF PLANT GROWTH REGULATION
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Asma Sofyane, Mohammed Lahcini, Abdellatif El Meziane, Mehdi Khouloud, Abdelmalek Dahchour, Sylvain Caillol, Mustapha Raihane
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN OIL CHEMISTS SOCIETY
(2020)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tariq Labbilta, Mohamed Ait-El-Mokhtar, Younes Abouliatim, Mehdi Khouloud, Abdelilah Meddich, Mohamed Mesnaoui
Summary: Four different phosphate glass formulations were developed as controlled-release fertilizers for wheat, containing macro and micro elements that affect the thermal properties, glass structure, and dissolution behaviors. A greenhouse experiment showed significant improvements in growth, photosynthetic parameters, and yield of wheat using these glasses compared to conventional fertilizers. Formulations F-1, F-2, and F-3 are seen as potential alternatives to traditional fertilization due to their positive impact on wheat production.
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Mohammed Majdoub, Younes Essamlali, Othmane Amadine, Ikram Ganetri, Anass Hafnaoui, Mehdi Khouloud, Mohamed Zahouily
Summary: A novel method for producing organophilic cellulose nanocrystals (CNC-ODA) from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was proposed. Surface modification of MCC was achieved through chemical oxidation, citric acid esterification, and amidation reactions. The resulting nanocrystals exhibited improved hydrophobicity and thermal stability compared to unmodified MCC.
Article
Automation & Control Systems
Mohammed Lakehal Senhaji, Anass Hafnaoui, Mehdi Khouloud, Asmae El Agri, Ahmed Boulahna, Mohammed El Asri
Summary: Granular fertilizer production faces issues such as caking, moisture absorption, and dust emission during handling, storage, and transport. The formulation of anti-dust coating compositions has successfully reduced dust emission by up to 29%, significantly improving the physical qualities of fertilizer granules.
CHEMOMETRICS AND INTELLIGENT LABORATORY SYSTEMS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Asma Sofyane, Emna Ben Ayed, Mohammed Lahcini, Mehdi Khouloud, Hamid Kaddami, Bruno Ameduri, Sami Boufi, Mustapha Raihane
Summary: A novel approach was presented to prepare slow-release membranes encapsulated with DAP fertilizer using waterborne polymers. The use of PBMA and P(BMA-co-PFA) latex dispersions synthesized with SNC as a pickering surfactant was explored, showing enhanced thermal stability and hydrophobic character. Evaluation of the coated fertilizer granules morphology revealed good adhesion between DAP fertilizer and coating films, leading to significant slower nutrient release properties for improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tariq Labbilta, Mohamed Ait-El-Mokhtar, Younes Abouliatim, Mehdi Khouloud, Abdelilah Meddich, Mohamed Mesnaoui
Summary: The study focused on three phosphate glass compositions with varying [K2O/(CaO+MgO)] ratios for controlled release fertilizers for tomato crops. It was found that increasing the [K2O/(CaO+MgO)] ratio led to higher dissolution rates and changes in glass properties. Agronomic valorization showed that VF1 and VF2 glass fertilizers improved soil mineral content and tomato performance, with VF2 being particularly effective. This highlights the potential of these smart fertilizers for large-scale application to enhance crop production and nutritional quality.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Taha El Assimi, Roko Blazic, Elvira Vidovic, Mustapha Raihane, Abdellatif El Meziane, Mohamed Hassen Baouab, Mehdi Khouloud, Redouane Beniazza, Hans Kricheldorf, Mohammed Lahcini
Summary: The study introduced a biodegradable coating based on polylactic acid (PLA) and cellulose acetate (CA) to encapsulate diammonium phosphate (DAP) granules for the first time. It demonstrated that the thickness of the coating can be controlled by adjusting the duration of the coating process to meet the release rate required by the European standard.
PROGRESS IN ORGANIC COATINGS
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Abir Mzibra, Abderrahim Aasfar, Mehdi Khouloud, Youssef Farrie, Rachid Boulif, Issam Meftah Kadmiri, Ahmed Bamouh, Allal Douira
Summary: The study found that polysaccharide-enriched extracts from seaweeds can enhance the growth, yield, and fruit quality of tomato plants. Principal component analysis revealed that the presence of sulfate, galactose, glucose, and maltose in the characterized polysaccharides was closely associated with their effects on plant growth, yield, and fruit quality parameters.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ihsane Kassem, El-Houssaine Ablouh, Fatima-Zahra El Bouchtaoui, Zineb Kassab, Mehdi Khouloud, Houssine Sehaqui, Hakim Ghalfi, Jones Alami, Mounir El Achaby
Summary: Effective management of fertilizers is crucial for sustainable agriculture. Slow-release fertilizers and eco-friendly coating materials play an important role in improving agronomic practices. Novel waterborne and biodegradable nanocomposite coatings, prepared from cellulose nanocrystals-filled polyvinyl alcohol, show great potential in extending nutrient release time and enhancing water retention in soil.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Mohamed Ait-El-Mokhtar, Tariq Labbilta, Mohamed Anli, Abderrahim Boutasknit, Younes Abouliatim, Mehdi Khouloud, Mohamed Mesnaoui, Abdelilah Meddich
Summary: The study found that controlled release fertilizers have a positive effect on wheat growth, yield, and grain quality, especially the GF2 and GF3 formulations. The application of these fertilizers also improved the mineral nutrient concentrations in the soil, indicating their potential in sustainable agriculture in the future.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Soumia Boukind, Jamal Bouaouina, Hiba Bouras, Anass Ait Benhamou, El-Houssaine Ablouh, Zineb Kassab, Mehdi Khouloud, Mounir El Achaby, Houssine Sehaqui
Summary: Cellulose functionalization using inexpensive fertilizer-grade phosphate has been successfully performed, resulting in materials with high adsorption capacity and efficiency for the remediation of dye-contaminated wastewater.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mohamed El Mehdi Mekhzoum, Abderrahim Aasfar, Abir Mzibra, Najib El Mernissi, Youssef Farrie, Mehdi Khouloud, Rachid Boulif, Abou el kacem Qaiss, Issam Meftah Kadmiri, Rachid Bouhfid
Summary: The study investigates the feasibility of using polysaccharide enriched extracts from red seaweed as coating materials for controlled release fertilizers. The polysaccharide was characterized and found to have a molecular weight of 2805 KDa. The coated fertilizers showed slow release behavior in water and soil, improved water retention, and increased phosphorus release kinetics.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYCOLOGY
(2023)
Proceedings Paper
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
A. Sofyane, E. Ablouh, M. Lahcini, A. Elmeziane, M. Khouloud, H. Kaddami, M. Raihane
Summary: This study aimed to reduce the negative impact of fertilizers on the environment and improve the sustainability of agriculture by using a novel biomass-based, functional slow controlled-release fertilizer. Different biocomposites were proposed as an outer hydrophobic coating to control the release of phosphorus and nitrogen from diammonium Phosphate fertilizers, showing improved slow release properties. The coated fertilizers exhibited cohesive films and good adhesion, leading to slower nitrogen release compared to uncoated DAP.
MATERIALS TODAY-PROCEEDINGS
(2021)