Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Farhana Islam, Siew Yee Wong, Xu Li, M. Tarik Arafat
Summary: In this study, Pectin and mucin were incorporated into a cellulose hydrogel to create superabsorbent hydrogels with improved swelling capacity. The modified hydrogels showed significantly higher swelling ratios and pH-responsive behavior compared to pure cellulose hydrogels. Additionally, different drug release profiles were observed based on the pH medium, showcasing the potential of Pec/Muc-modified cellulose hydrogels in controlled drug delivery systems and other biomedical applications.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Elzbieta Czarnecka, Jacek Nowaczyk, Miroslawa Prochon, Anna Masek
Summary: This study focuses on the development of a superabsorbent polymer material that exhibits high fluid absorbance and biodegradability. The swelling and dehydration kinetics of hydrogels formed by grafting polymerization of carboxymethyl starch and chitosan were studied, and the surface morphology and texture properties of the hydrogels were observed using scanning electron microscopy. Spectroscopic analyses confirmed the formation of acetal crosslink bridges including vanillin molecules.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Fengyi Chen, Chengdu Miao, Qingfei Duan, Shuai Jiang, Hongsheng Liu, Litao Ma, Zhongxian Li, Xianyang Bao, Bifeng Lan, Ling Chen, Long Yu
Summary: A novel method for developing slow-release fertilizers by in-situ radiation-synthesizing urea-embedded starch-based hydrogels was introduced. The effects of irradiation intensity on hydrogels with different AM/starch ratios, concentrations, and urea loading were studied. The structures and performances of the gel were investigated, and the relationships between the gel structures and properties, and release rate were established.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Guohua Dong, Zhonghua Mu, Dongni Liu, Luwen Shang, Wenzhi Zhang, Yueyue Gao, Ming Zhao, Xiaohong Zhang, Shijie Chen, Minghui Wei
Summary: In this study, a novel starch phosphate carbamate hydrogel (SPC-Hydrogel) and its corresponding urea hydrogel (SPCU-Hydrogel) slow-release fertilizer were prepared by copolymerization. The hydrogels showed superior water absorption and retention capacity. Specifically, the SPCU-Hydrogel demonstrated excellent performance in promoting plant growth.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Yijun Yao, Yanqin Shen, Chengmeng Hu, Hailiang Wu
Summary: A comfortable microenvironment can be achieved by using superabsorbent fabrics in personal protective equipment. A superabsorbent and high-water-retention fabric was prepared by in situ polymerization of Starch-Sodium Alginate-Polyacrylate (St-SA-PAA) hydrogel on polyester fabric. The water-absorption rate of the fabric increased from 2.8 to 10 g/min with the deposition of St-SA-PAA gel on the fabric, and the water absorption capacity reached 343 g/g. The mechanical properties of the gel improved after water absorption due to the supporting effect of the polyester fiber. The superabsorbent fabric exhibited isotropic characteristics and its water absorption capacity and softness could be adjusted by controlling the amount of deposited gel.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Fatemeh Etemadi Baloch, Daryoush Afzali, Fariba Fathirad
Summary: Acrylic-bonded starch nanocomposite hydrogels were synthesized using montmorillonite nanoclay as crosslinker and initiator, showing excellent water absorption and controlled release of chlorpyrifos for potential agricultural applications.
APPLIED CLAY SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Ashok Bora, Niranjan Karak
Summary: This study synthesized a biobased superabsorbent with high water absorption capacity and fast water absorption rate using starch and itaconic acid, which shows great potential to be used as an environmentally friendly superabsorbent in agricultural applications.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Mohamed Mohamady Ghobashy, Mohamed A. Amin, Norhan Nady, Abeer S. Meganid, Sheikha A. Alkhursani, Dalal Mohamed Alshangiti, Mohamed Madani, Samera Ali Al-Gahtany, Ahmed A. Zaher
Summary: A superabsorbent hydrogel composite was prepared from starch and polyacrylic acid, showing excellent water retention capability and sensitivity to acrylic acid content in terms of swelling. The application of hydrogel on sunflower under drought stress improved growth parameters, photosynthetic pigment content, and reduced the harmful impacts of drought. The study suggests that hydrogel can be a novel tool in mitigating drought stress in plants.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Manmanut Srikaew, Punnapat Jumpapaeng, Pitchayaporn Suwanakood, Chokchai Kaiyasuan, Vinich Promarak, Sayant Saengsuwan
Summary: In this study, eco-friendly superabsorbent hydrogel (SAH) films based on cassava starch (CSt) and poly-acrylic acid (PAA) were successfully synthesized and optimized. The optimized CSt-g-PAA film exhibited uniform porous structures and high swelling ratio, making it an efficient adsorbent for removing methylene blue (MB). The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order and Langmuir isotherm models, and the maximum adsorption capacity, partition coefficient, and removal efficiency were evaluated. Thermodynamic studies showed spontaneous and endothermic adsorption, and the adsorption mechanism involved electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding. The prepared SAH film also demonstrated excellent reusability, biodegradability, biosafety, and low cost, making it a promising and sustainable adsorbent for dye pollutant removal.
JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL AND ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jie Ren, Ruirui Li, Xuemiao Wang, Meng Li, Wu Yang
Summary: This study developed a hydrogel adsorbent for the removal of dye pollutants in dyeing wastewater. The hydrogel exhibited good adsorption performance towards various organic dyes and could spontaneously adsorb at ambient temperature. Additionally, it could be completely degraded by microorganisms in the soil.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Junhao Fei, Tao Tang, Likang Zhou, Huiwen He, Meng Ma, Yanqin Shi, Si Chen, Xu Wang
Summary: In this study, hyperbranched polyether crosslinkers were used to create efficient and high-performance biodegradable superabsorbent hydrogels. The addition of modified sodium lignosulfonate further improved the characteristics of traditional hydrogels and resulted in hydrogels with good antibacterial properties. The produced hydrogels exhibited greater gel strength and swelling capacities compared with commercial products. This study provides a promising approach for the fabrication of environmentally friendly and cost-effective biodegradable hydrogels.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Thatchajaree Mala, Anil Kumar Anal
Summary: Hybrid pectin and resistant starch-based hydrogel beads loaded with bromelain were prepared to enhance bromelain activity during gastrointestinal passage and thermal processing. The optimal ratio of pectin and resistant starch significantly improved encapsulation efficiency, entrapment of bromelain, swelling properties, and gastric stability. Bromelain encapsulated in hydrogels released at a faster rate in simulated intestinal fluid compared to simulated gastrointestinal fluid.
FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Karishma Supare, Prakash Mahanwar
Summary: This study aims to synthesize herbicide-loaded bio-based hydrogels and investigate their release mechanism. Starch and chitosan in different ratios were chosen as the bio-based resources to form the hydrogel matrix with varying concentrations of two crosslinkers. The synthesized hydrogels were characterized and evaluated for their thermal stability, release dynamics, and morphology. The results showed that the concentration of chitosan significantly influenced the release rate and diffusion mechanism of the herbicide.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Mehri Salimi, Badr-eddine Channab, Ayoub El Idrissi, Mohamed Zahouily, Elaheh Motamedi
Summary: This comprehensive review examines the structure, modifications, and applications of starch in slow/controlled-release fertilizers (SRFs) for agricultural purposes. It provides insights into the unique structure and properties of starch. The review discusses various methods of modifying starch and emphasizes their ability to impart desirable properties such as controlled release and improved stability. It focuses on the applications of starch in the development of SRFs, including starch-based hydrogels and starch-based hydrogel nano-composites. The review highlights the benefits of starch-based fertilizers in enhancing plant growth and crop yield while minimizing nutrient losses, presenting case studies and field trials. This review provides valuable insights into the potential of starch-based formulations to improve nutrient management and support sustainable agriculture.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Badr-Eddine Channab, Ayoub El Idrissi, Mohamed Zahouily, Younes Essamlali, Jason C. White
Summary: This review discusses the potential of starch as a renewable resource for the production of controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) in sustainable agriculture. Various methods of creating starch-based CRFs, including coating, chemical modification, and grafting with other polymers, are examined. The mechanisms of controlled release in starch-based CRFs are also discussed. The potential benefits of using starch-based CRFs in terms of resource efficiency and environmental protection are highlighted.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Pablo G. Costa, Michele K. Lima-Tenorio, Ernandes T. Tenorio-Neto, Renata A. C. Galinari, Cleiser T. P. da Silva, Hugo H. C. de Lima, Vicente L. Kupfer, Andrelson W. Rinaldi, Marcos R. Guilherme, Adley F. Rubira
Summary: Dual-responsive hydrogel composites composed of magnetite particles and alginate show excellent removal efficiency of methylene blue from aqueous environments through magnetic stimuli, with potential for reuse. Controlled by the amount of magnetite and magnetic fields, the composites exhibit remarkable adsorption capacity in specific conditions, offering a new approach for pollution control in water environments.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Hugo Henrique Carline de Lima, Maria Eugenia Grego Llop, Rogerio dos Santos Maniezzo, Murilo Pereira Moises, Vanderly Janeiro, Pedro Augusto Arroyo, Marcos Rogerio Guilherme, Andrelson Wellington Rinaldi
Summary: NaOH-activated hydrochars were synthesized through hydrothermal carbonization of Brazilian pine fruit shells for different residence times. These hydrochars exhibited high surface area and maximum adsorption of BPA at pH 7.0. Adsorption occurred mainly through monolayer formation with low retention time of the adsorbate, indicating endothermic spontaneous process. Desorption was more efficient with ethanol and methanol due to dipole-dipole forces, while desorption efficiency with acid, base, and salts was lower due to competitive effects.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Bruno H. Vilsinski, Paulo R. Souza, Ariel C. de Oliveira, Cesar M. C. Filho, Artur J. M. Valente, Edvani C. Muniz, Olga Borges, Adriana P. Gerola, Wilker Caetano, Alessandro F. Martins
Summary: Methylene blue is an efficient photosensitizer for Photodynamic Therapy treatment, with high singlet oxygen quantum yield in different fluids. Hydrogels are investigated for MB delivery, with swelling degree depending on MB incorporation, methacrylation degree, and pH of the simulated fluid. The release of MB in simulated fluids shows unusual behavior due to hydrogel erosion/degradation, with potential for gastrointestinal cancer treatment.
MATERIALS TODAY COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Leticia C. Bonkovoski, Bruno H. Vilsinski, Manuela R. Panice, Catia S. Nunes, Gustavo Braga, Danielle Lazarin-Bidoia, Celso Nakamura, Alessandro F. Martins, Edvani C. Muniz
Summary: The study successfully synthesized polyelectrolyte complexes using ionic liquids in aqueous media, and found that ionic liquids significantly influenced the morphology and pore size of the complexes. Moreover, the presence of ionic liquids enhanced interactions between different materials, providing organized structures.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ariel C. de Oliveira, Paulo R. Souza, Bruno H. Vilsinski, Manuel E. G. Winkler, Marcos L. Bruschi, Eduardo Radovanovic, Edvani C. Muniz, Wilker Caetano, Artur J. M. Valente, Alessandro F. Martins
Summary: In this study, gelatin, amino-functionalized polyphenolic tannin derivative, and graphene oxide were combined to create thermo- and pH-responsive hydrogels for drug delivery applications. Addition of graphene oxide to gelatin/tannin blend improved mechanical properties and increased porosity. The incorporation of methylene blue as a model drug showed controlled release behavior in response to pH changes.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Murilo P. Moises, Cleiser Thiago P. da Silva, Cinthia A. A. Silva, Joziane G. Meneguin, Gustavo G. Fonseca, Marcos R. Guilherme, Andrelson W. Rinaldi, Emerson M. Girotto, Eduardo Radovanovic
Summary: This study synthesized a microporous sustainable Zeolite A material using agroindustry solid waste and functionalized it with silver nanoparticles. The release transport properties of silver ions were investigated, and it was found that the antimicrobial activity of the material depended on exposure time and concentration.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Elizangela H. Fragal, Vanessa H. Fragal, Elisangela P. Silva, Alexandre T. Paulino, Edson C. da Silva Filho, Marcos R. Mauricio, Rafael Silva, Adley F. Rubira, Edvani C. Muniz
Summary: This review presents recent advances in polysaccharide-based magnetic hydrogels as smart platforms for various biomedical applications, covering their synthesis methods, synergic properties, and contributions in drug delivery, tissue regeneration, and hyperthermia therapy.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Marilia Cestari, Barbara Sthefani Caldas, Dyenefer Pereira Fonseca, Rodolfo Bento Balbinot, Danielle Lazarin-Bidoia, Issei Otsuka, Celso Vataru Nakamura, Redouane Borsali, Edvani Curti Muniz
Summary: Nanofibers containing silk fibroin, chondroitin sulfate, and silver sulfadiazine were prepared using electrospinning technique. The addition of poly (ethylene oxide) improved the electrospinnability. The nanofibers had a diameter between 262 and 328 nm before PEO removal and between 242 and 345 nm after PEO removal. CS and SSD remained in the nanofibers, and CS significantly influenced the remaining SSD content. The nanofibers were non-toxic to Vero cells and had antibacterial activity depending on the concentration of CS.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Manuel E. G. Winkler, Elisangela P. da Silva, Marcos H. Kunita, Adley F. Rubira
Summary: This study presents a method for obtaining silica particles through pressured carbonation and demonstrates the influence of CO2 pressure on material properties. The simplicity and practical importance of this method, as well as its ability to synthesize various types of silica materials and composites, are highlighted.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mario Cezar Pozza Junior, Andressa Giombelli Rosenberger, Franciele Fernanda da Silva, Douglas Cardoso Dragunski, Edvani Curti Muniz, Josiane Caetano
Summary: The use of electrochemical sensors in the detection and quantification of chemical agents from environmental samples is effective for monitoring environmental quality. In this study, a polymer-based sensor for 2,4,6-trichlorophenol determination was developed using electrospinning of a blend of poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) with graphite. The thermal treatment of graphite-containing fibres improved the adhesion surface for adsorption of the analyte, leading to enhanced peak current in the electrochemical tests. The developed PLA/PBAT/Graphite sensor exhibited excellent detection and quantification limits, as well as a strong linear response.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Michelly C. G. Pella, Andressa R. Simao, Marcos R. Mauricio, Douglas C. Dragunski, Rafael da Silva, Adley F. Rubira
Summary: This study evaluated the effects of different parameters on the properties of starch. The results showed that the volume and temperature of GMA had an impact on the DS and X-c, and their correlation increased the DS and Xc. Higher temperatures also favored hydrolysis. Although parameter correlations did not have a significant effect on the assessed properties, they changed the effect of individual parameters.
JOURNAL OF THE BRAZILIAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Alessandra Ruyz Medeiros, Fabiana da Silva Lima, Andressa Giombelli Rosenberger, Douglas Cardoso Dragunski, Edvani Curti Muniz, Eduardo Radovanovic, Josiane Caetano
Summary: This study aimed to use electrospinning to obtain PBAT/PLA polymer fibers with semiconductors TiO2-R and Fe3O4 to enhance the photocatalytic degradation of environmental contaminants. The parameters used in electrospinning were a needle to target distance of 12 cm, a flow rate of 1 mL h(-1), and a voltage of 14 kV. The best mass ratio of semiconductors in the fibers was determined to be 10% TiO2-R and 1% Fe3O4 at pH 7.0. Characterization techniques such as SEM, DSC, XRD, TGA, and FTIR confirmed the presence of TiO2-R and Fe3O4 in the fibers and their interaction with the polymers, leading to changes in crystallinity and degradation temperature. The fibers exhibited a 64.0% efficiency in degrading Reactive Red 195 dye within 24 hours, indicating potential for photocatalytic degradation of environmental contaminants.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Elisangela Pacheco da Silva, Vanessa Hafemann Fragal, Elizangela Hafemann Fragal, Thiago Sequinel, Luiz Fernando Gorup, Rafael Silva, Edvani C. Muniz
Summary: Plastic waste consumption has been exponentially increasing every year, posing a significant environmental concern in modern society. Improper disposal of used supercapacitors also leads to serious environmental impacts. Transforming trash into high-valued materials, such as carbon nanomaterial supercapacitors, is a critical action to address these issues.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Michelly Cristina Galdioli Pella, Andressa Renatta Simao, Guilherme Miranda Pereira, Adley Forti Rubira
Summary: This study assessed the effect of different hydrolysis periods on the properties of hydrogels based on DMAAm and GMASt. The results showed that hydrolysis converted ester groups into carboxylic acids and carboxylates and formed a keto-enol tautomer. The hydrolysis had minimal effect on the morphology, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of the matrices. It also increased the water uptake of the matrices, making them potentially useful for agricultural purposes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Luiz B. S. Filho, Ronaldo C. Coelho, Edvani C. Muniz, Herbert de S. Barbosa
Summary: This study analyzed 209 articles on pectin extraction via response surface methodology (RSM) collected from Web of Science(C) and Scopus(C), using Bibliometrix for science mapping analysis. The trends in optimization and extraction methods of pectin via RSM were identified. The results showed that China was the most active country in terms of local productions, while Iran, Brazil, India, and the United Kingdom contributed to international collaborative publications. Assisted extraction methods and the physical and functional properties of pectin have gained more relevance in recent years.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMER TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yiping Yin, Zhe Wang, Hua Zou
Summary: This study presents a novel method for preparing dimpled polymer-silica nanocomposite particles using interfacial swelling-based seeded polymerization. The optimized conditions allow for a relatively high percentage of dimpled particles to be achieved.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Brenden D. Hoehn, Elizabeth A. Kellstedt, Marc A. Hillmyer
Summary: Porous materials with nanometer-scale pores have important applications as nanoporous membranes. In this study, ABA triblock copolymers were used as precursors to produce nanoporous polymeric membranes (NPMs) in thin film form by degrading the end blocks. Polycyclooctene (PCOE) NPMs with tunable pore sizes were successfully prepared using solvent casting technique. Oxygen plasma etching was employed to improve the surface porosity and hydrophilicity of the membranes. This study provides a straightforward method to produce tough NPMs with high porosity and hydrophilic surface properties.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Vladislav S. Petrovskii, Stepan I. Zholudev, Igor I. Potemkin
Summary: This article investigates the behavior of linear and ring polypeptide chains in aqueous solution and explores the properties of the complexes formed by these chains with oppositely charged surfactants. The results demonstrate that the complexes of linear supercharged unfolded polypeptides and the corresponding surfactants exhibit impressive adhesive properties.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Merve Cevik, Serkan Dikici
Summary: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, and vascular grafts are a promising treatment option. This study focuses on tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) using decellularized parsley stems as a potential biomaterial. The decellularized parsley stems showed suitable properties for TEVGs, providing a suitable environment for human endothelial cells to form a pseudo endothelium. This study showcases the potential of using parsley stems for TEVGs.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Gustavo A. Vasquez-Montoya, Tadej Emersic, Noe Atzin, Antonio Tavera-Vazquez, Ali Mozaffari, Rui Zhang, Orlando Guzman, Alexey Snezhko, Paul F. Nealey, Juan J. de Pablo
Summary: The optical properties of liquid crystals are typically controlled by electric fields. In this study, we investigate the effects of microfluidic flows and acoustic fields on the molecular orientation and optical response of nematic liquid crystals. We identify several previously unknown structures and explain them through calculations and simulations. These findings hold promise for the development of new systems combining sound, flow, and confinement.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xinjun Wu, Xin Guan, Shushu Chen, Jiangpeng Jia, Chongyi Chen, Jiawei Zhang, Chuanzhuang Zhao
Summary: This research presents a novel shape memory hydrogel with a remodelable permanent shape and programmable cold-induced shape recovery behavior. The hydrogel is prepared using specific treatment methods to achieve shape fixation by heating and shape recovery by cooling. Additionally, deformable devices can be obtained by assembling hydrogel blocks with different concentrations.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rebecca Hengsbach, Gerhard Fink, Ulrich Simon
Summary: This study examines the properties of DNA functionalized pNipmam microgels and pure pNipmam microgels at different concentrations of sodium chloride and in PBS solutions using temperature dependent H-1-NMR measurements. The results show that DNA modification affects the volume phase transition temperature and the addition of salt and PBS further enhances this effect.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ningyi Li, Junhong Li, Lijingting Qing, Shicheng Ma, Yao Li, Baohui Li
Summary: This paper investigates the self-assembly behavior of colloids with competing interactions under spherical confinement and finds that different ordered structures can be formed under different sized spherical confinements. Moreover, more perforated structures are formed in smaller spheres.