Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Sagar V. Kanhere, Graham W. Tindall, Amod A. Ogale, Mark C. Thies
Summary: This study investigates the conversion of lignin from poplar into carbon fibers and its importance. The researchers found that the Aqueous Lignin Purification with Hot Agents (ALPHA) process could effectively purify and fractionate hybrid poplar lignin. The resulting high molecular weight fraction had very low sugar and ash content, and could be spun into stable carbon fibers. The strength and modulus of these carbon fibers were double those achieved with neat poplar lignin, and the stabilization time was reduced by a factor of five.
Article
Polymer Science
J. Gomez-Caturla, J. Ivorra-Martinez, R. Tejada-Oliveros, V Moreno, D. Garcia-Garcia, R. Balart
Summary: This work focuses on the development of environmentally friendly PLA formulations by using different esters derived from geraniol as plasticizers. The results show that these esters have good compatibility with PLA, and they can effectively enhance the elongation and plasticity of PLA, reduce its glass transition temperature, and slightly improve its water absorption capabilities.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Giuseppina Maria Fiorino, Ali Zein Alabiden Tlais, Ilario Losito, Pasquale Filannino, Marco Gobbetti, Raffaella Di Cagno
Summary: This study demonstrates that lactic fermentation using selected starters can increase the presence of hydroxy- and oxo-fatty acids in plant matrices. The behavior of 31 strains of lactic acid bacteria during the fermentation of Persian walnuts was investigated, with a focus on the increase of certain fatty acids and the release of hydroxy- and epoxy-fatty acids. The study identified various bacteria strains, including Weissella cibaria, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and Enterococcus faecalis, with notable lipolytic activities and the ability to produce hydroxy- and epoxy-fatty acids during walnut fermentation.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Omprakash Sarkar, Ulrika Rova, Paul Christakopoulos, Leonidas Matsakas
Summary: Sustainable production of fuels and chemicals is crucial for reducing carbon footprint. This study evaluated the production of hydrogen and platform chemicals from pretreated birch sawdust, demonstrating the potential for biofuel production. The integration of acidogenic fermentation with anaerobic digestion in a biorefinery framework showed promising results for the production of biohythane and biomethane.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Nadj A. Cachet, Bouchra Benjelloun-Mlayah
Summary: Organosolv lignins were extracted from various agricultural residues using a mixture of acetic and formic acids, showing differences in chemical composition such as silica, calcium, and nitrogen content. Corn stover and sugarcane bagasse lignins were found to be ideal for phenolic resin production, while wheat straw lignin was noted for its aliphatic OH content and reed straw lignin for its beta-O-4 linkages favorable for depolymerization.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Anthi Karnaouri, Georgia Asimakopoulou, Konstantinos G. Kalogiannis, Angelos A. Lappas, Evangelos Topakas
Summary: The use of isobutanol as an organic solvent in the OxiOrganosolv process can efficiently delignify and fractionate beechwood, producing cellulose-rich solid pulp and serving as a carbon source for microbial fermentation. Additionally, the recovery of C5 sugars in the aqueous liquid fractions includes a fraction rich in xylo-oligosaccharides with prebiotic potential.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Amy Blake, M. Cakmak
Summary: In this study, we examined the effect of programmed deformation history on the strain induced crystallization, crystalline order, and chain orientation in initially amorphous poly lactic acid films in a rubbery state. By using a highly instrumented programmable uniaxial stretcher, we were able to continuously measure true strain, true stress, and birefringence during processing. We applied deformation to strategically selected strain levels where the initially amorphous PLA film could potentially strain-crystallize. This was followed by small strain cycling to affect the level of orientation and order in crystalline and amorphous phases.
Article
Polymer Science
Chan-Woo Park, Song-Yi Han, Rajkumar Bandi, Ramakrishna Dadigala, Eun-Ah Lee, Jeong-Ki Kim, Azelia Wulan Cindradewi, Gu-Joong Kwon, Seung-Hwan Lee
Summary: The study investigated the effect of lignin esterification with fatty acid chloride on the properties of lignin and lignin/PLA composites. It was found that esterified lignin/PLA composites exhibited cleaner and smoother morphological characteristics, higher tensile strength, and elastic modulus compared to non-esterified composites. Esterification also reduced water absorption and improved the compatibility of lignin and PLA.
Article
Polymer Science
Lin Zhou, Ping-Ping Xu, Shi-Hao Ni, Ling Xu, Hao Lin, Gan-Ji Zhong, Hua-Dong Huang, Zhong-Ming Li
Summary: Transparent PLA films with superior ductility and barrier properties were prepared using biaxial stretching and constrained annealing. The oriented nano-sized crystals developed during biaxial stretching served as nano-barrier walls to impede gas diffusion and enhance ductility.
CHINESE JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Anchan Khankhuean, Kankavee Sukthavorn, Nollapan Nootsuwan, Chatchai Veranitisagul, Apirat Laobuthee
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and nano-silver-coated porous clay heterostructure (PCH) hybrid films were fabricated using a twin-screw extruder. Addition of Ag/PCH fillers enhanced the dielectric properties of the hybrid films, increasing the dielectric constant almost 10 times higher than that of PLA. Furthermore, Ag/PCH improved the mechanical properties of PLA. Therefore, PLA-Ag/PCH and BOPLA-Ag/PCH hybrid films derived from biodegradable PLA can be used as dielectric films in capacitors.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Anchan Khankhuean, Kankavee Sukthavorn, Nollapan Nootsuwan, Chatchai Veranitisagul, Apirat Laobuthee
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and nano-silver-coated porous clay heterostructure (PCH) hybrid films were successfully fabricated to enhance the dielectric properties of PLA. Ag/PCH fillers were found to significantly increase the dielectric constant of hybrid films. The BOPLA-Ag/PCH films showed better dielectric properties than traditional BOPP films, making them potential candidates for capacitors.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Qitao Cao, Wanqin Zhang, Tianjing Lian, Shunli Wang, Fubin Yin, Tanlong Zhou, Haiyan Zhang, Jun Zhu, Hongmin Dong
Summary: Micro-aeration is an environmentally friendly strategy that enhances the production of volatile fatty acids and lactic acid. It increases the concentration of VFAs and shortens the time to reach the maximum. It also limits the conversion of lactic acid into VFAs and promotes the accumulation of lactic acid.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Ti-Peng Wang, Hang Li, Jiang-Meng Yuan, Wen-Xin Li, Kai Li, Yao-Bing Huang, Ling-Ping Xiao, Qiang Lu
Summary: Pine lignin has the highest G unit content and best thermal stability; bamboo lignin has uniform molecular distribution and a high pCA unit content; poplar lignin contains abundant PB and S units, with phenol as the main pyrolytic product.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Matias Menossi, Florencia Salcedo, Nazarena Rivilli, Andres Torres Nicolini, Vera A. Alvarez, Leandro N. Luduena
Summary: Novel formulations based on corn starch, thermoplastic starch, poly (lactic acid), and poly (epsilon-caprolactone) were developed for agricultural mulch films. The addition of poly (epsilon-caprolactone) had slight effects on the properties of PLA/CS and PLA/TPS blends. Bioassays showed that the use of these biodegradable mulch films based on PLA/CS and PLA/TPS had positive effects on the growth of tomato plants, comparable to low-density polyethylene.
JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Lichun Chen, Huimin Zhao, Songwen Xue, Kexian Chen, Yue Zhang
Summary: This study explored the self-assembly of short-chain fatty acids to form novel biomimetic nanovesicles as delivery systems. The dissociation of lactic acid was used to regulate the delivery effect of short-chain fatty acid vesicles. The study showed that the dissociation of lactic acid caused pH changes, leading to rapid expansion and shape transformation of the vesicles. Compared with surfactant-built vesicles, the FA/LA composite system exhibited higher permeability and better membrane stability.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Rut Fernandez-Marin, Susana C. M. Fernandes, Ma Angeles Andres Sanchez, Jalel Labidi
Summary: The addition of curcuma oil, anthocyanins, and nanocrystals to a chitosan matrix improved mechanical properties and hydrophobicity, while reducing water solubility and moisture content. The resulting films also exhibited excellent UV/Vis light blocking below 550 nm, antioxidant properties, and sensitivity to color change when exposed to ammonia gas and different pH solutions, making them promising for intelligent food packaging applications.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2022)
Article
Forestry
Nacera Benouadah, Andrey Pranovich, Jalel Labidi, Stefan Willfor
Summary: This study comprehensively characterized the chemical composition of the inner and outer bark of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, revealing differences in cellulose, lignin, hemicellulose, and sugar monomer contents between the two. The results suggest that bark can be considered a suitable feedstock for lignocellulosic biorefinery and the extraction of bioactive compounds for various applications.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Nagore Izaguirre, Eduardo Robles, Rodrigo Llano-Ponte, Jalel Labidi, Xabier Erdocia
Summary: This study obtained different lignins using two extraction methods from the same raw material, with the goal of fractionating them to obtain lignin fractions with specific structures and properties. The environmental friendly solvent sequence was designed based on health and safety assessments, and various analytical techniques were used to characterize the obtained fractions. The study showed an effective method for obtaining homogeneous lignins with specific properties depending on the solvent and molecular weight, with different lignin fractions having specific target applications.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2022)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Sara Saad, Izaskun Davila, Faten Mannai, Jalel Labidi, Younes Moussaoui
Summary: In this study, the autohydrolysis of Ziziphus lotus was used as a pretreatment to obtain valuable products such as oligosaccharides, lignin, and cellulose nanofibres. The autohydrolysis pretreatment not only enhanced the delignification process and reduced polydispersity of lignin, but also increased the crystallinity index of cellulose nanofibres. This approach has the potential to contribute to circular economy and zero-waste production.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Olfa Bachrouch, Houwaida Nefzi, Souhir Belloumi, Karima Horchani-Naifer, Jazia Sriti Eljazi, Soumaya Haoual Hamdi, Kamel Msaada, Jalel Labidi, Manef Abderrabba, Jouda Mediouni Ben Jemaa
Summary: This study investigated the composition and toxicity of Thyme essential oils (EOs) against two main stored grain insect pests. The results showed that the EOs had higher toxicity to the L. serricorne than the T. castaneum. The study also tested the combination of EOs with Tunisian Diatomaceous earths (DEs), which showed promising results in protecting stored grains.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Sarah Montes, Itxaso Azcune, Edurne Elorza, Alaitz Rekondo, Hans Grande, Jalel Labidi
Summary: Lignocellulosic biomass is a valuable source of energy and raw materials. Fractionation of the biomass into its main components, including cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose, is necessary to fully utilize its potential. Ionic liquids have been explored as a sustainable alternative for biomass treatment due to their selectivity during fractionation. This study investigated the selective extraction of lignin from banana rachis using 6 different ionic liquids, including choline lactate which is known for its lack of toxicity and ease of synthesis from renewable resources.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2022)
Correction
Agricultural Engineering
Sarah Montes, Itxaso Azcune, Edurne Elorza, Alaitz Rekondo, Hans Grande, Jalel Labidi
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Andre L. Missio, Rafael A. Delucis, Caio Gomide Otoni, Pedro H. G. de Cademartori, Rodrigo Coldebella, Arthur B. Aramburu, Bruno D. Mattos, Marlon B. B. Rodrigues, Nayara Lunkes, Darci A. Gatto, Jalel Labidi
Summary: This study improves the flame retardancy and thermal stability of a highly flammable thermoplastic-polypropylene by compositing with a carbonaceous tannin-based particulate. The addition of 65 wt% of the particulate improves the viscoelastic properties and hydrophobicity of the thermoplastic, while having no significant effect on bulk water interactions. Compositing with the particulate greatly improves the thermal stability of the composites and effectively limits fire propagation.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Manel Elakremi, Leyre Sillero, Lazher Ayed, Mongi ben Mosbah, Jalel Labidi, Ridha ben Salem, Younes Moussaoui
Summary: This study investigated the extraction of bioactive compounds from pistachio leaves using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction conditions. The results showed that MAE extracts had better antioxidant and antimicrobial activities compared to extracts obtained by maceration. UPLC-DAD-ESI-MS analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds in the MAE extracts.
SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Amaia Morales, Jalel Labidi, Patricia Gullon
Summary: This study explores the possibility of synthesizing hydrogels based on multiple biopolymers, with a focus on lignin as a potential candidate. Chemical modifications were used to enhance the reactivity of lignin, and the resulting hydrogels exhibited different properties depending on the type of lignin used. The swelling capacity of the hydrogels improved with organosolv lignin-based samples, while it was negatively affected with modified alkaline lignin-based hydrogels. The results suggest that these hydrogels have the potential for controlled drug delivery.
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES
(2022)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Farida Baraka, Eduardo Robles, Jalel Labidi
Summary: Microwave-assisted synthetic pathway was used for the sustainable esterification of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) using an aromatic amine compound. Nanofibers were isolated from unbleached and bleached eucalyptus pulp and their chemical composition, structural properties, morphology, and thermal properties were investigated.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Oihana Gordobil, Nicole Blazevic, Marjana Simonic, Anna Sandak
Summary: Colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) from softwood kraft lignin were used to prepare bio-based oil-in-water (O/W) Pickering emulsions, which were evaluated for their characteristics and stability. The concentration of CLPs, oil content and type, and homogenisation methods significantly affected the droplet size and physical stability of the emulsions. Incorporating natural oils containing phenolic compounds improved the sun protection factor (SPF) of the emulsions, and the broad-spectrum sun blocking effect of the Pickering emulsions was confirmed.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Robson Andreazza, Amaia Morales, Simone Pieniz, Jalel Labidi
Summary: Hydrogels, particularly those based on gelatin, have shown great potential as polymers for various applications, such as biomedical purposes and environmental remediation. Gelatin, derived from collagen from the meat industry, adds value to waste materials like cartilage, bones, and skins. The biodegradability, non-toxicity, and easy cross-linking ability of gelatin-based hydrogels further enhance their performance and affordability.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Nagore Izaguirre, Javier Fernandez-Rodriguez, Eduardo Robles, Jalel Labidi
Summary: In this study, Kraft lignin was treated using mild oxidation conditions enhanced by ultrasound irradiation. The aim was to obtain functionalized particles while avoiding undesired side reactions. It was found that the oxidation reactions increased the carboxylic groups on the surface of the particles and promoted the formation of stable and nanosized particles.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Nagore Izaguirre, Javier Fernandez-Rodriguez, Eduardo Robles, Jalel Labidi
Summary: Kraft lignin was treated using mild oxidation conditions enhanced by ultrasound irradiation to obtain more functionalized particles without degradation and depolymerization. The best conditions for achieving stable and nanosized particles were found to be without the addition of hydrogen peroxide, at 30 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes. The reactions yielded good recovery rates, above 70% of the original lignin.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Xiaodan Wu, Zihan Wang, Guansong Shao, Bingyang Qin, Ying Wang, Tao Wang, Zhiguo Liu, Yujie Fu
Summary: In this study, a new type of cellulose-based ionic imprinting adsorbent was developed for the selective removal of cobalt ions. The adsorbent exhibited excellent adsorption performance, high cycling stability, and preferential selectivity for cobalt ions. The simple preparation method and promising application prospects make it a promising candidate for water treatment.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Chandirasekar Shanmugam, Vanitha Marimuthu, Nagappan Rajendiran
Summary: In this study, monodispersed gold and silver nanoparticles were synthesized using cholic acid functionalized star poly(DL-lactide) as a capping and reducing agent. The synthesized materials were found to be effective heterogeneous catalysts for the reduction reaction.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Bianca-Iulia Ciubotaru, Mirela-Fernanda Zaltariov, Mihaela Dascalu, Adrian Bele, Alexandra Bargan, Maria Cazacu
Summary: Porous networks were obtained using polysiloxanes pendant functionalized with aminopropyl groups. The addition of certain substances, such as ammonium bicarbonate and acetic acid, promoted the porosity and covalent cross-linking of the polymer. The resulting materials exhibited high dielectric permittivity and significant electrical output signal when subjected to compression, making them suitable for capacitive pressure sensors.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Mohamed A. Zein, Basim H. Asghar, Abdulaziz M. Almohyawi, Norah F. Alqahtani, Ahmed Alharbi, J. Alkabli, Reda F. M. Elshaarawy, Lamia A. Ismail
Summary: In this study, new amphiphilic chitosan-thyme extract-nanosilver nanocomposites were prepared, which synergistically inhibited bacterial biofilm formation and bacterial proliferation. The nanocomposites disrupted bacterial cell membranes, causing cell death, and prevented biofilm formation. In addition, the nanocomposites exhibited good biocompatibility, making them potential candidates for biomedical applications.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Norah F. Alqahtani
Summary: This review explores the potential of Imidazolium-based ionic liquids (ImILs) in improving the solubility, stability, and functionality of chitosan, and provides an overview of the types and preparation methods of functionalized imidazolium ionic liquids (FImILs). Additionally, it discusses the various opportunities offered by FImIL-chitosan derivatives.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Olesya N. Zabegaeva, Alexey F. Kosolapov, Sergei L. Semjonov, Mariam G. Ezernitskaya, Egor S. Afanasyev, Ivan A. Godovikov, Alexander Chuchalov, Dmitriy A. Sapozhnikov
Summary: Polyimides are commonly used as primary protective coatings for optical fibers in high-temperature applications. However, the manufacturing process is complicated due to certain drawbacks. This study shows the potential use of polyamide-imides as highly reliable protective coatings for optical fibers.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Luis Miguel Nunez Tapia, Pascal Thebault, Laurent Bischoff, Alain Ledoux, Florian Defontaine, Olivier Lesouhaitier, Fabrice Burel
Summary: A water soluble cationic bis-cyclocarbonate was prepared through a three steps procedure, and non-isocyanate polyurethanes were prepared in acetonitrile with high yields. The resulting materials exhibited good thermal properties and hydrophilic properties. The polyurethane thermoset showed high inhibition towards bacteria, and the bis-cyclocarbonate oligomer was found to be harmless to organisms.
REACTIVE & FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS
(2024)
