Article
Polymer Science
Anand Utpal Vakil, Natalie Marie Petryk, Ellen Shepherd, Mary Beth B. Monroe
Summary: Polyurethane foams are widely used as a biomaterial system due to their ability to tune physical, chemical, and biological properties. By adding ether-containing monomers, shape memory polymer foams with tunable degradation rates have been synthesized for longer-term stability in various biomaterial applications. These SMP foams have the potential to provide controlled erosion profiles and up to 15% mass remaining after 108 days when used in oxidative and hydrolytic media for in vitro degradation assessment.
Review
Polymer Science
Ehsan Rostami-Tapeh-Esmaeil, Ali Vahidifar, Elnaz Esmizadeh, Denis Rodrigue
Summary: This review focuses on the preparation and applications of rubber foams, discussing the impact of formulation and processing parameters on their properties, compiling and comparing the relevant research results.
Article
Polymer Science
Pornsiri Toh-ae, Nophawan Paradee, Prachid Saramolee, Siriluk Chiarakorn, Ekwipoo Kalkornsurapranee, Jobish Johns, Yeampon Nakaramontri
Summary: The study focused on NR composite foams filled with different amounts of titanium dioxide, showing enhanced mechanical and photocatalytic properties at specific concentrations, with better performance observed with anatase-TiO2.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Changling Du, David Anthony Fikhman, Mary Beth Browning Monroe
Summary: Phenolic acids are natural antioxidants that can be introduced into polyurethane foams to impart antioxidant properties. The different phenolic acids showed variations in antioxidant properties and cellular antioxidant activity. Slow release of phenolic acids can enhance long-term oxidative degradation resistance, while fast release can enhance cellular antioxidant effects.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Natalia C. F. Machado, Larissa A. M. de Jesus, Paula S. Pinto, Fabiano G. F. de Paula, Marcio O. Alves, Kelrie H. A. Mendes, Raquel V. Mambrini, Daniel Barrreda, Victoria Rocha, Ricardo Santamaria, Joao P. C. Trigueiro, Rodrigo L. Lavall, Paulo F. R. Ortega
Summary: This study demonstrates a novel approach of utilizing expanded polystyrene waste to produce high-performance magnetic activated carbons, which show great potential in adsorbing organic contaminants and functioning as electrodes in redox supercapacitors.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zilong Guo, Guo Yu, Zhiguo Zhang, Yandong Han, Guijian Guan, Wensheng Yang, Ming-Yong Han
Summary: The collective oscillation of free electrons at the nanoscale surface of gold nanostructures is modulated by various factors, including size, shape, phase, composition, assembly, and surroundings. These modulation techniques lead to changes in optical properties, metal-field-enhanced optical signals, luminescence spectral shaping, chiroptical response, and photogenerated hot carriers. The rich optical properties of gold nanostructures have enabled a wide range of applications in nanoscience and nanotechnology, including full-color displays, solar energy harvesting, photochemical reactions, optical sensing, and biomedical imaging.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Anrong Yao, Yafang Wang, Jincheng Yu, Siyao Tian, Yifei Zhan, Hongjiang Liao, Jianwu Lan, Shaojian Lin
Summary: A Fe-pillared montmorillonite (Fe-MMT) functionalized bio-based foam (Fe-MMT@CS/G) was developed as a sustainable and efficient green material for the elimination of organic pollutants. The foam exhibited efficient adsorption ability for charged pollutants and could be regenerated. The addition of H2O2 triggered the Fenton degradation reaction, improving the removal efficiency for both charged and uncharged organic pollutants.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Tan Wan, Yuan Liu, Canxu Zhou, Xiang Chen, Yanxiang Li
Summary: Open-cell metallic foams, such as aluminum foam, have excellent structural performance and functional characteristics like light weight, energy absorption, and electromagnetic shielding. This new engineering material is widely used in aerospace, automotive industry, and other fields. This paper provides a summary of the fabrication methods, properties, and applications of open-cell aluminum foams, as well as the current status and development trends.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Katalin Litauszki, Daniel Gere, Tibor Czigany, Akos Kmetty
Summary: In this study, the influence of D-lactide content of poly(lactic acid) and the presence and dosage of an expandable microspheres-type foaming agent on the compostability of polymeric foam samples was investigated. The results showed that poly(lactic acid)-based foam sheet with higher D-lactide content decomposed faster than the foam sheet with lower D-lactide content when 8 wt% foaming agent was applied. It was found that thermally expandable microspheres decreased the rate of degradation in poly(lactic acid)-based syntactic foam structures, but even the medium-density foams degraded before day 70.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Chaochao Cao, Jingwen Yang, Kun Fu, Qinghong Zhai, Zheng Zhou, Jiawei Ji, Yuanhui Ma, Min Zhou, Yanming Xue, Chengchun Tang
Summary: Highly porous BN foams (BNFs) were prepared through a simple compression forming and controllable high-temperature nitriding method, featuring abundant micropores, mesopores, and macropores, as well as a robust three-dimensional structure. BNFs exhibit excellent gas molecule capture abilities and high adsorption capacities for various organic reagents and oils, making them ideal for advanced multifunctional adsorption applications.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Qian Hu, Licong Xu, Kaixing Fu, Feichao Zhu, Taoyu Yang, Tao Yang, Jinming Luo, Minghua Wu, Deyou Yu
Summary: This study introduces a facile and effective approach to fabricate MOF-based melamine foams (MFs) with ultrahigh loading stability and operation stability, easy separation, and high-efficient performance for versatile robust applications.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Eslam Ibrahim El-Aswar, Hassan Ramadan, Hussin Elkik, Ahmed G. Taha
Summary: Nanofiber membranes show promise in water purification applications, but face challenges such as fouling, poor mechanical properties, shrinkage, and deformation. Preparation methods and functionalization are crucial in addressing these issues.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
A. Licona-Aguilar, A. M. Torres-Huerta, M. A. Dominguez-Crespo, D. Palma-Ramirez, E. Conde-Barajas, M. X. L. Negrete-Rodriguez, A. E. Rodriguez-Salazar, D. S. Garcia-Zaleta
Summary: This study synthesized activated carbons from sugarcane bagasse and orange peel and used carbon foams for the adsorption of heavy metals in synthetic water. The results showed that carbon foam from orange peel exhibited a higher removal rate for lead and copper at pH 5.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Dominik Grzeda, Grzegorz Wegrzyk, Adriana Nowak, Joanna Idaszek, Leonard Szczepkowski, Joanna Ryszkowska
Summary: In this study, the cytotoxic properties of a group of open-cell polyurethane foams were investigated as a function of the isocyanate index. The results showed that the isocyanate index significantly influenced the chemical structure and cytotoxicity of the foams. These findings have important implications for the design and use of polyurethane foams in biomedical applications, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the isocyanate index to ensure biocompatibility.
Article
Physics, Multidisciplinary
Amal Hammoud, Bechir Yahmadi, Mehdi Souli, Saleh A. Ahmed, Lassaad Ajili, Najoua Kamoun-Turki
Summary: In this study, chalcogenide Copper Magnesium Tin Sulfide (CMTS) thin films were deposited on glass substrates using a chemical spray pyrolysis technique. The structural, optical, and morphological properties of the CMTS thin films were analyzed. The results showed that the CMTS thin films had good crystallinity and photocatalytic activity, making them potential candidates for solar cells and organic dye catalysts.
EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL PLUS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Huanjun Zhang, Yin Lu, Yi Li, Chao Wang, Yanan Yu, Wenlong Zhang, Longfei Wang, Lihua Niu, Chi Zhang
Summary: The intimate coupling of photocatalysis and biodegradation (ICPB) has enhanced ability in removing recalcitrant contaminants and generating energy, but due to complex components and variable environmental conditions, the mechanisms are not fully understood. Further development of the system requires clarification on accurately understanding the system condition during practical application.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xinyi Zhou, Wei Xiong, Yi Li, Chi Zhang, Xinyan Xiong
Summary: A novel chemical-biological coupling concept called SCMPMC was proposed, utilizing memory photocatalysts and microbial communities to remove organic and inorganic pollutants alternately. This system effectively removed dimethyl phthalate and nitrate under light/dark cycles. Addition of memory photocatalysts positively impacted microbial communities, evidenced by increased enzyme activities and relative abundance of denitrifiers.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yi Li, Xinyan Xiong, Chi Zhang, An Liu
Summary: The long-term decline in dissolved oxygen levels in freshwater systems poses a global concern, but a sustainable restoration strategy using local sediment-based biochar has been proposed in this study, which shows promising re-oxygenation performance and nutrient cycle regulation effects.
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Dawei Wang, Yuanyuan Chen, Mourin Jarin, Xing Xie
Summary: This article emphasizes the impact of increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change on water supply, particularly the exacerbation of inequalities in health and education. The article calls for greater attention and efforts in technological innovation in decentralized, especially point-of-use water treatment to better address the challenges posed by extreme weather events.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xinyi Zhou, Chi Zhang, Yi Li, Xinyan Xiong, Ye Wang, Shengxiang Rong
Summary: This study investigated the synergistic removal of microbial nitrate and CO2 fixation in darkness using a novel g-C3N4@WO3 memory photocatalyst. The results showed that within 48 hours, 98.6% of nitrate was removed and 17.7% of CO2 was fixed by microorganisms in the presence of g-C3N4@WO3 memory photocatalyst. The mechanism analysis revealed that the photocatalyst can promote electron transfer and enhance enzyme activities within microorganisms.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Longfei Wang, Yiheng Zhao, Yi Li, Bian Yao, Chi Zhang, Wenlong Zhang, Lihua Niu, Huanjun Zhang
Summary: This study found that iron-loaded biochars (FeBCs) can accelerate the simultaneous removal of nitrate and bisphenol A (BPA) from aquatic systems. FeBCs have high electron transfer efficiency and redox activity, which can enhance microbial metabolism and degradation ability. The addition of FeBCs increased the activity of denitrifying enzymes and the level of nitrate-reducing genes, as well as the abundance of bacterial genera responsible for BPA degradation. Moreover, the ferric-containing functional groups were significantly correlated with nitrate-reducing enzymes and metabolic activities, facilitating the simultaneous removal of nitrate and BPA.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Hossam Zakaria, Yi Li, Mohamed M. Fathy, Xinyi Zhou, Xinyan Xiong, Ye Wang, Shengxiang Rong, Chi Zhang
Summary: A novel black titanium oxide/plasmonic titanium nitride@activated coconut biochar (TiO2-x/TiN@ACB) composite was designed to have both photocatalytic and photothermal functions, with enhanced band-gap narrowing, light absorbance extension, and charge carriers separation. The composite exhibited efficient photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and water evaporation upon IR and Vis light illumination, demonstrating its potential for efficient water cleaning.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yi Li, Ye Wang, Chi Zhang, Zhengguo Pan, Shuguang Han
Summary: This study presents a cost-effective and eco-friendly strategy for eliminating Microcystis aeruginosa, a common cyanobacteria, using a combination of H2O2 pre-oxidation and enhanced pressurization. The optimized treatment conditions achieved a high removal rate of 57.84% within 24 hours and complete suppression after 7 days. The study also identified the role of intracellular reactive oxygen species and the nonviolent impairment of pressurization in the synergistic algae removal.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Shenyang Pan, Wenlong Zhang, Yi Li, Chi Zhang, Huanjun Zhang, Lihua Niu, Longfei Wang
Summary: This paper provides a quantitative and qualitative analysis of research trends and hotspots in the water environment of the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) through bibliometric means. The results show that future management of the YRB requires consideration of all elements of the basin, including water resources, water quality, and aquatic ecology, and ecological risk, emerging bioinformatics technologies, and source apportionment will become new research directions.
RIVER RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jinlong Qin, Huajie Huang, Jian Zhang, Fengyi Zhu, Lang Luo, Chi Zhang, Lu Yang, Quanguo Jiang, Haiyan He
Summary: Due to the diminishing energy resources and environmental pollution issues, direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have gained a high profile in recent decades as a green energy generator. In this research, ultrasmall Rh nanocrystal-decorated heterostructures were designed and fabricated from Zn-based zeolites imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) and Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets (Rh/ZIF-MX) via a bottom-up stereoassembly strategy. The resulting Rh/ZIF-MX nanoarchitectures exhibited superior electrocatalytic performance for methanol oxidation, surpassing traditional Rh catalysts directly supported on carbon materials.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Huanjun Zhang, Yanan Yu, Yi Li, Li Lin, Chi Zhang, Wenlong Zhang, Longfei Wang, Lihua Niu
Summary: Intimately coupled photocatalysis and biodegradation (ICPB) is an effective technology for removing refractory contaminants from water. In this study, a novel three-dimensional porous hydrogel carrier, BC/g-C3N4, was developed and used in the ICPB system for the first time. The ICPB system showed a significantly higher removal rate (96.0%) of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) compared to other systems. Photo-electrochemical tests confirmed the superior electron transfer ability of the ICPB system. Microorganisms played a crucial role in the mineralization process of TCH and remained active after the ICPB degradation experiment. The study highlights the potential of the novel ICPB carrier and system in practical applications.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Xinyan Xiong, Yi Li, Xinyi Zhou, Chi Zhang
Summary: Anthropogenic deoxygenation of freshwater systems has raised global concern due to its potential threats to biodiversity, nutrient loading, and greenhouse gas emissions. This study developed a new method using oxygen-carrying dual-modified sediment-based biochar to restore hypoxic freshwater and reduce methane emissions. The results showed that the modified biochar significantly increased dissolved oxygen concentration and decreased methane emissions. Microbial analysis indicated that the restored oxygen-rich environment promoted the expression of methane oxidation genes. The study highlights the potential of improving water quality and microbial community reconstruction in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yilan Jiang, Peifang Wang, Tingyue Chen, Keyi Gao, Yiran Xiong, Yin Lu, Dionysios D. Dionysiou, Dawei Wang
Summary: By controlling the content of Co and Ni in Co1-xNixFe2O4, the production of O-1(2) from H2O2 can be regulated. NiFe2O4, with the lowest lattice distortion degree, can efficiently produce O-1(2) as the dominant reactive oxygen species. The system also exhibits significant resistance to water matrix interference.
APPLIED CATALYSIS B-ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
(2024)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Chi Zhang, Xin Zhang, Hongchen Shen, Danmeng Shuai, Xinyan Xiong, Ye Wang, Huajie Huang, Yi Li
Summary: This review focuses on the dual self-cleaning surfaces with both superhydrophobicity and photocatalytic activity, providing comprehensive information on their principles, synthesis strategies, key properties, and applications. It also outlines future perspectives for the development of such surfaces.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yilan Jiang, Peifang Wang, Yiran Xiong, Tingyue Chen, Chi Zhang, Keyi Gao, Xiaoguang Duan, Dawei Wang
Summary: This study investigates the relationship between metal-oxygen covalency and the efficiency of organic pollutant removal by manganese oxides. The results show that higher metal-oxygen covalency leads to stronger oxidation capability of manganese oxides.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A
(2023)
