Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ahmed Hemida, Magdy Abdelrahman
Summary: The study used FTIR and TGA to analyze the high concentration application of guayule resin and CRM in asphalt, revealing the composition elements of guayule resin and the interaction mechanism among asphalt, CRM, and guayule. The research also demonstrated the significant improvement of performance in asphalt-rubber-guayule blends at high temperatures, but noted the negative impact of oxidative aging on the performance at intermediate temperatures.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Chunxia Zhu, Shuyu Pang, Zhaoxia Chen, Lehua Bi, Shuangfei Wang, Chen Liang, Chengrong Qin
Summary: Currently, the synthesis methods of crystalline porous materials often involve powder products, limiting their practical application and scale. In this study, a mechanochemical method was used to prepare TpPa-1-DANC composites, which showed potential for large-scale synthesis of COFs composites with diverse forms.
Article
Polymer Science
A. R. Annappa, S. Basavarajappa, J. Paulo Davim
Summary: The addition of organoclays enhanced the mechanical properties of glass-epoxy nanocomposites, including ultimate tensile strength and flexural strength. Organoclay significantly reduced the roughness of the fractured surface and improved the overall performance of the nanocomposites.
Article
Thermodynamics
R. Skvorcnskiene, I. Kiminaite, L. Vorotinskiene, A. Jancauskas, R. Paulauskas
Summary: Today's society faces the dual challenge of resource depletion and waste accumulation. There is a growing demand to replace conventional plastics with bioplastics in the market, but the sustainability of bioplastics compared to conventional plastics remains a subject of debate due to limited research. This study investigates the degradation characteristics of bioplastics in soil (ATR-FTIR), their thermal stability under pyrolysis, and their suitability for waste-to-energy conversion using thermal analysis (TG) and evolved gas analysis (FTIR). The biodegradation experiments reveal that only corn starch-based bioplastics can completely and rapidly degrade in soil, while other bio-based and petroleum-based plastics only undergo color change and softening. This indicates that bioplastics undergo thermochemical alteration and closely resemble conventional plastics, necessitating proper recycling or conversion into energy to avoid becoming a source of microplastics. Thermogravimetric analysis coupled with evolved gas analysis (TGA-FTIR) shows that the gas yield from bioplastics ranges from 80-99%, with degradation onset occurring at temperatures ranging from 203.0-272.5 degrees C in a nitrogen environment, or 10-20 degrees C lower in a steam-enriched environment. The main volatile products of bioplastics pyrolysis are carboxylic compounds, alkanes, alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, amines, CO, and CO2, depending significantly on the chemical composition of the plastic.
Article
Polymer Science
Ali A. Alhazime, Nesreen T. El-Shamy, Kaoutar Benthami, Mai Me Barakat, Samir A. Nouh
Summary: Gamma irradiation leads to improved thermal stability and reduced optical band gap of PMMA/Sn0.75Fe0.25S2 NCP films, resulting in significant color changes.
JOURNAL OF POLYMER ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Janjanam Naveen, Myneni Sukesh Babu, Ramanujam Sarathi, Ramachandran Velmurugan, Michael G. Danikas, Athanasios Karlis
Summary: By adding MgO nanofillers, the electrical and thermal performance of glass fiber reinforced epoxy nanocomposites can be improved. The 3% MgO filled sample showed the best performance, including increased discharge and corona inception voltages, as well as reduced coefficient of thermal expansion.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Sumira Rashid, Himjyoti Dutta
Summary: Derivatization of cellulose from rice husk for food application can be a sustainable approach of valorization. Different molecular arrangements and characteristics were observed in cellulose extracted from differently sized rice husks. Carboxymethyl celluloses (CMC) showed reduced crystallinity and enhanced hydrophilicity, improving textural integrity and serving as a binder in food applications. The use of rice husk CMC as an improver and prebiotic ingredient in various foods warrants further exploration.
LWT-FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Haijun Wu, Puyang Zhou, Jagadeesh Kumar Alagarasan, Junjie Jing, Ting Zhou, Yuanguo Xu
Summary: The study successfully synthesized novel PTh/BiOBr hybrids with improved photocatalytic activity; the samples were characterized using various techniques for structure and performance analysis; the photocatalytic efficiency of the composite under visible light for BPA degradation was significantly higher compared to BiOBr monomers.
ADVANCED POWDER TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jiajun Chen, Jianzun Lu, Sabrina Yanan Jiang, Chiu Hong Lee, Yu Li, Huada Daniel Ruan
Summary: The adding sequence has a significant impact on the modification of the properties of modified products, in addition to the types of modifiers. The physical-chemical properties and adsorption abilities of inorganic-organic montmorillonites (IOMMts) towards hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and bisphenol A (BPA) were investigated, and it was found that the adding sequence influenced the molecular environment and the amount of HDTMA incorporated into IOMMts, thus affecting the adsorption capabilities of IOMMts towards Cr(VI) and BPA.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Zhibo Huang, Xiaohui Wu, Yan Shi, Liqun Zhang
Summary: By improved solution blending method with polytetramethylene ether glycol as interface agent, organic montmorillonite/brominated butyl rubber nanocomposites were successfully prepared with good dispersion effect and intercalated/exfoliated structures. The mechanical performances and gas barrier properties of the nanocomposites were greatly improved, demonstrating the preparation of high-performance clay/rubber nanocomposites in nonpolar solvent.
MACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Khadidja Taleb, Salima Saidi-Besbes, Isabelle Pillin, Yves Grohens
Summary: Biocomposites based on PBS and OMt were prepared by melt blending process. Gemini surfactant-modified organoclays showed a uniform dispersion and exfoliation in the PBS matrix, leading to improved properties. Adding a small amount of PBS/OMt significantly reduced the water vapor permeability, making it a promising material for food packaging applications.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Pyoung-Chan Lee, Dongwoo Kang, Ji Taek Oh, Jae Young Seo, Donghyeok Shin, Jae-Uk Jung, Youn Ki Ko, Jin Uk Ha, Myeong-Gi Kim
Summary: In this study, polypropylene (PP) was combined with a graphene/montmorillonite hybrid (MMT-G) to create a nanocomposite material with reduced moisture absorption. The modified nanofiller showed low hydrophilicity and good compatibility with the PP matrix, resulting in improved water contact angle. The use of PP/MMT-G nanocomposites in automotive headlamp housing reduced moisture absorption and decreased weight.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Guodong Yuan, Jing Wei, Benny K. G. Theng
Summary: Clay-organic interaction is crucial for soil ecosystem services, and can be utilized to produce effective clay-organic nanocomposites for removing carcinogenic Cr(VI) from water. The study found that montmorillonite promotes the conversion of glucose to hydrochar, resulting in smaller and stable nanostructures in the CMnt samples, which exhibit strong adsorptive properties for Cr(VI) removal.
CLAYS AND CLAY MINERALS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Takahiro Kakuta, Yudai Baba, Tada-aki Yamagishi, Tomoki Ogoshi
Summary: Clays are multi-layered inorganic materials with thermodynamically stable structures, which makes it challenging to improve their dispersity by changing them into single layers. This study demonstrates that the use of novel intercalants capable of forming polyrotaxanes with poly(ethylene glycol) can effectively exfoliate clay, leading to enhanced properties in composite materials.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Istebreq A. Saeedi, Sunny Chaudhary, Thomas Andritsch, Alun S. Vaughan
Summary: Reactive molecular additives such as glycidyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (GPOSS) have been found to significantly impact the cross-linking reactions, glass transition, breakdown strength, and dielectric properties of amine-cured epoxy resin systems. Proper stoichiometric compensation for the additional epoxide groups present on the GPOSS is crucial for achieving beneficial changes in electrical properties. Overall, optimizing the system with GPOSS can lead to materials with pronounced improvements in technologically important characteristics.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Teresa Faddetta, Giovanni Renzone, Alberto Vassallo, Emilio Rimini, Giorgio Nasillo, Gianpiero Buscarino, Simonpietro Agnello, Mariano Licciardi, Luigi Botta, Andrea Scaloni, Antonio Palumbo Piccionello, Anna Maria Puglia, Giuseppe Gallo
Summary: This study investigated the production and characterization of membrane vesicles (MVs) in Streptomyces coelicolor M145. The MVs were found to contain various proteins and metabolites, including those involved in cell metabolism/differentiation, molecular processing/transport, and stress response. Additionally, the MVs contained a range of metabolites, such as antibiotics, vitamins, amino acids, and components of carbon metabolism. These findings provide valuable insights into the biogenesis and functions of MVs.
APPLIED AND ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Rossella Arrigo, Alberto Frache
Summary: This study accurately characterized the rheological behavior of several 3D-printable polylactic acid-based filaments, evaluated their 3D printing ability in FDM technology, and related the rheological features of the materials to their composition and microstructure, providing a useful tool for designing thermoplastic-based formulations with appropriate rheological performance.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Roberto Scaffaro, Andrea Maio, Michele Gammino
Summary: Platelet-like and fibrous lignocellulosic fillers were prepared from the leaves of Chamaerops humilis (CHL) and Posidonia oceanica (POL) for use as a hybrid reinforcement in a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix. The resulting hybrid biocomposites exhibited improved mechanical and dynamic-mechanical properties compared to composites with only CHL or POL, likely due to the balanced effect of morphological features and physicochemical characteristics. These green materials have potential applications in the furniture and automotive industries.
ADVANCED COMPOSITES AND HYBRID MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Roberto Scaffaro, Maria Clara Citarrella, Marco Morreale
Summary: The 3D printability of green composites is gaining importance and interest as it provides a way to utilize agricultural waste for the production of affordable and environmentally friendly biodegradable polymer-based composites. In this study, a green composite was prepared by combining a starch-based biodegradable polymer (Mater-Bi-(R), MB) with a filler obtained from tomato plant waste. Different processing parameters and filler amounts were investigated, and the samples were characterized for rheological, morphological, and mechanical properties. It was found that the composite had good processability and satisfactory mechanical performance, with the mechanical properties exceeding the predicted values from the Halpin-Tsai model.
Article
Polymer Science
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Marilena Baiamonte, Stefania Santangelo, Roberto Scaffaro, Maria Chiara Mistretta
Summary: The photo-oxidation of polypropylene was studied at different temperatures and in different environments. The oxidation reactions were found to be strongly influenced by the availability of oxygen and the temperature. The degradation was fastest in air, followed by sea water and distilled water. Increasing the temperature significantly increased the degradation kinetics due to decreased oxygen solubility.
Article
Polymer Science
Roberto Scaffaro, Michele Gammino, Andrea Maio
Summary: Growing environmental concerns drive the development of efficient materials for environmental remediation. Polymer-based hierarchical structures, achieved by combining starting components and processing techniques, are emerging in the field of materials science. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) and/or carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were integrated into poly (vinyl fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-co-HFP) and electrospun into water treatment mats. The nanocomposites with 2 wt% GO and CNTs exhibited the best performance, with high flux, rejection, flux recovery ratio, antifouling properties, and reusability, attributed to the unique microstructure provided by the self-assembled network of GO and CNTs.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Roberto Scaffaro, Emmanuel Fortunato Gulino, Maria Clara Citarrella
Summary: The study prepared porous fibrous membranes based on biodegradable polymers for wastewater treatment. The structure and porosity of the membranes were controlled by varying the polymer type and processing method. The results showed that the porous structure of the membranes significantly influenced their mechanical performance, wettability, and oil sorption capacity.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Roberto Scaffaro, Luca Settanni, Emmanuel Fortunato Gulino
Summary: This study compares the techniques of electrospinning (ES) and solution blow spinning (SBS) for the production of nanofibrous membranes. The effects of liquid or solid molecules addition on morphology, structural properties, and release behavior were evaluated. The results show that both ES and SBS can achieve controlled release for up to 500 hours, with SBS allowing for slower release kinetics for liquid molecules and faster release kinetics for solid molecules.
Review
Polymer Science
Rubie Mavelil-Sam, Elizabeth Mariya Ouseph, Marco Morreale, Roberto Scaffaro, Sabu Thomas
Summary: The versatility and hydrophilicity of carrageenan have been extensively studied and explored. However, its limited hydrophobicity restricts its applications in fields such as food packaging. Researchers worldwide are investigating methods to enhance the hydrophobic nature of carrageenan-based bionanocomposites without compromising their functionalities. This review comprehensively discusses various techniques, including surface modifications and changes in chemical structure, to modulate the hydrophobicity of carrageenan composites.
Article
Polymer Science
F. Carfi Pavia, V. Brucato, M. C. Mistretta, L. Botta, F. P. La Mantia
Summary: By using biodegradable polymers instead of fossil-derived polymers in certain applications, the release of carbon dioxide into the environment can be greatly reduced. In this study, prototypes of aquaculture trays were produced using the biodegradable polymer Mater-Bi-(R) through injection molding. Characterization tests revealed that the polymer used has suitable properties for producing tools for aquaculture applications. Additionally, the samples underwent a biodegradation test in conditions that simulate the marine environment, showing a relatively low degradation rate for the thick molded samples.
Article
Polymer Science
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Roberto Scaffaro, Marilena Baiamonte, Manuela Ceraulo, Maria Chiara Mistretta
Summary: Polymers are influenced by various environmental stresses during processing and usage, resulting in changes in their chemical and molecular structure as well as morphology. The main observed changes are reduction in molecular weight and the formation of double bonds and oxygenated groups due to degradation. These changes dramatically modify the macroscopic properties, especially in the recycling process of post-consumer plastic products.
Article
Polymer Science
Giulia Bernagozzi, Daniele Battegazzore, Rossella Arrigo, Alberto Frache
Summary: Composites based on a heterophasic polypropylene copolymer with various micro-sized and nano-sized fillers were formulated for Material Extrusion (MEX) additive manufacturing processing. The thermal properties, rheological behavior, and morphology of the materials were examined to understand the influence of the embedded fillers on their MEX processability. Composites with 30 wt% talc or calcium carbonate and 3 wt% nanoclay exhibited the best combination of thermal and rheological properties, and were selected for 3D printing. The mechanical properties of the 3D-printed specimens were modulated by the type of filler used, offering potential for producing printed parts with desirable characteristics and functionalities.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Emanuela Fabiola Craparo, Salvatore Emanuele Drago, Gabriella Costabile, Maria Ferraro, Elisabetta Pace, Roberto Scaffaro, Francesca Ungaro, Gennara Cavallaro
Summary: Inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used to manage chronic lung diseases, but their anti-inflammatory effects are not always satisfactory. This study attempted to develop inhalable beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) dry powders using polymeric particles. The BDP-loaded particles showed improved anti-inflammatory effects and were highly biocompatible in vitro.
Article
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
Maria Chiara Mistretta, Vincenzo Titone, Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Valeria Pellitteri, Luigi Botta
Summary: This study assessed the use of a nanofiller for the mechanical recycling of multilayer barrier plastic bags. The results showed that the addition of GnPs improved the properties of the polymer composites, providing increased stiffness without a significant reduction in ductility. The performance of the nanocomposites was influenced by the conditions in which the plastic bags were used.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Marta Zaccone, Irene Kociolek, Alberto Frache, Costanzo Bellini, Vittorio Di Cocco, Marco Monti
Summary: This paper evaluates the abrasion resistance of a carbon fiber composite filled with layered-silicate clay nanoparticles. The study investigates the dispersion and performance of the clay-epoxy nanocomposite, and determines the optimal content for fiber composite production. The nanocomposite mixture is prepared by dispersing clay nanoparticles in the epoxy monomer, followed by vacuum infusion to produce the fiber reinforced composite. The presence of nanoclay reduces weight loss and damage on the impacted surface.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2023)