In this paper, fiber sensor based on Vernier effect for simultaneous measurement of relative humidity (RH) and temperature is proposed. The sensor is fabricated by coating two kinds of ultraviolet (UV) glue with different refractive indexes (RI) and thicknesses on the end face of a fiber patch cord. Vernier effect is formed by the inner lower-RI polymer cavity and the cavity composed of both polymer films. By calibrating the RH and temperature response of two peaks on the envelope of the reflection spectrum, simultaneous measurement of RH and temperature is realized by solving a set of quadratic equations. Experimental results show that the highest RH and temperature sensitivities of the sensor are 387.3 pm/%RH (in 20%RH to 90%RH) and -533.0 pm/°C (in 15°C to 40°C), respectively. The sensor has merits of low cost, simple fabrication, and high sensitivity, which makes it very attractive for applications that need to simultaneously monitor these two parameters.

So far, poly(L-lactic acid), PLLA, nanosheets proved to be promising for wound healing. Such biodegradable materials are easy-to-prepare, bio-friendly, cost-effective, simple to apply and were shown to protect burn wounds and facilitate their healing. At the same time, certain metal ions are known to be essential for wound healing, which is why this study was motivated by the idea of incorporating PLLA nanosheets with Zn2+ ion containing nanoparticles. Upon being applied on wound, such polymer nanosheets should release Zn2+ ions, which is expected to improve wound healing. The work thus focused on preparing PLLA nanosheets embedded with several kinds of Zn-containing nanoparticles, their characterization and ion-release behavior. ZnCl2 and ZnO nanoparticles were chosen as model particles with different solubility in water, both types showing similar ion release dynamics in liquid medium with pH around 7.4.

We report the results of the characterization of local Monte Carlo (MC) dynamics of an equilibrium bond fluctuation model polymer matrix (BFM), in time interval typical for MC simulations of non-linear optical phenomena in host-guest systems. The study contributes to the physical picture of the dynamical aspects of quasi-binary mosaic states characterized previously in the static regime. The polymer dynamics was studied at three temperatures (below, above and close to the glass transition), using time-dependent generalization of the static parameters which characterize local free volume and local mobility of the matrix. Those parameters play the central role in the kinetic MC model of host-guest systems. The analysis was done in terms of the probability distributions of instantaneous and time-averaged local parameters. The main result is the characterization of time scales characteristic of various local structural processes. Slowing down effects close to the glass transition are clearly marked. The approach yields an elegant geometric criterion for the glass transition temperature. A simplified quantitative physical picture of the dynamics of guest molecules dispersed in BFM matrix at low temperatures offers a starting point for stochastic modeling of host-guest systems.

Up to 13 million tons of plastic waste are estimated to enter the oceans every year. A generally accepted picture based on an increasing number of environmental studies suggests that the largest fraction of it consists or is rapidly degraded into microplastics (MPs). Most of the analytical studies focused on MPs are based on the detection and identification of the polymers. On the other hand, plastic debris in the environment undergo chemical (mainly photoxidative) and physical degradation processes leading not only to fragmentation but also to the formation of leachable, soluble and/or volatile degradation products that are released in the environment. The formation of such low molecular weight species is generally neglected in the studies on MPs even if these compounds, released in the environment from the plastics debris, may pose even higher risks for the environment and for the biota than the MPs particles themselves, risks that are far from being understood and assessed. In this study we performed the analysis of reference MPs - polymer micropowders obtained by grinding a set of five polymer types down to final size in the 857-509 μm range, namely high- and low-density polyethylene (HDPE and LDPE, respectively), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The reference MPs were artificially aged in a Solar-Box and their degradation products were analyzed to investigate their degradation processes. In particular, a systematic and thorough characterization of the aged (photo-oxidized) MPs and of their low molecular weight and/or highly oxidized fraction extractable in polar organic solvents was performed. For this purpose, the artificially aged MPs were subjected to selective extraction with organic solvent that are non-solvents for the virgin polymers, targeting selective recovery of the low molecular weight fractions generated during the artificial aging. Analysis of both the extractable fractions and the residues was carried out by a multi-technique approach combining evolved gas analysis-mass spectrometry (EGA-MS) and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS). Up to 18 wt% of newly extractable, low molecular weight fraction was recovered from the photo-aged MPs, depending on the polymer type. The results highlight the need for more extensive studies about the potential harmfulness of the oxidation products (molecular and oxidized oligomeric species) that may leach out from plastic debris during their permanence in the environment.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilatation of the abdominal aorta that progressively grows till the rupture. Treatment is typically recommended when the diameter is more than 5 cm. The EVAR (Endovascular aneurysm repair) is a mininvasive procedure that involves the placement of an expandable stent graft within the aorta to treat aortic disease without operating directly on the aorta. For years, stent grafts' essential design was based on metallic stent frames to support the fabric. More recently, a polymer-based technology has been proposed as an alternative method to seal AAA. This review underlines the two platforms that are based on a polymer technology: 1)the polymer-filled endobags, so-called Endovascular Aneurysm Sealing (EVAS) with Nellix stent graft; and 2)the O-ring EVAR polymer-based proximal neck sealing device, so-called Ovation stent graft. Polymer characteristics for this particular aim, clinical applications, and durability results are summarized and commented critically. The platform that embraced the concept of inflating endobags filled with polymer to exclude the aneurysmal sac was not successful because of the lack of an adequate proximal fixation. The platform that used polymer to create a circumferential sealing of the aneurysmal neck has proven safe and effective.

The implementation of gold-hydrogel core-shell nanomaterials in novel light-driven technologies requires the development of well-controlled and scalable synthesis protocols with precisely tunable properties. Herein, new insights are presented concerning the importance of using the concentration of gold cores as a control parameter in the seeded precipitation polymerization process to modulate – regardless of core size – relevant fabrication parameters such as encapsulation yield, particle size and shrinkage capacity. Controlling the number of nucleation points results in the facile tuning of the encapsulation process, with yields reaching 99% of gold cores even when using different core sizes at a given particle concentration. This demonstration is extended to the encapsulation of bimodal gold core mixtures with equally precise control on the encapsulation yield, suggesting that this principle could be extended to encapsulating cores composed of other materials. These findings could have significant impact on the development of stimuli-responsive smart materials.

To combat infections on biomedical devices, antimicrobial coatings have attracted considerable attention, including coatings comprising naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). In this study the aim was to explore performance upon extended challenge by bacteria growing in media above samples. The AMPs LL37, Magainin 2, and Parasin 1 were covalently grafted onto a plasma polymer platform, which enables application of this multilayer coating strategy to a wide range of biomaterials. Detailed surface analyses were performed to verify the intended outcomes of the coating sequence. Samples were challenged by incubation in bacterial growth media for 5 and 20 hrs. Compared with the control plasma polymer surface, all three grafted AMP coatings showed considerable reductions in bacterial colonization even at the high bacterial challenge of initial seeding at 1x107 CFU, but there were increasing numbers of dead bacteria attached to the surface. All three grafted AMP coatings were found to be non-toxic to primary fibroblasts. These coatings thus could be useful to produce antibacterial surface coatings for biomaterials, though possible consequences arising from the presence of dead bacteria need to be studied further, and compared to non-fouling coatings that avoid attached dead bacteria.

Nanoparticles have been proposed for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The research has demonstrated marvelous effort to understand the mechanisms of nanoparticles-EOR. Nevertheless, gaps still exist in terms of understanding the improved fluids and fluid-rock interactions by nanoparticles, which are the key driving forces for oil mobilization. This paper investigates four types of polymer-coated silica nanoparticles as additives for water flooding oil recovery in water-wet reservoirs. A series of flooding experiments were performed with nanoparticles at 0.1 wt.% in seawater at ambient conditions. The dynamics of fluids, fluid-rock interface interactions and fluid flow behavior were characterized in order to understand oil recovery mechanisms of nanoparticles. Experimental results showed an increase in oil recovery up to 14.8%-point with nanofluid injection compared to an average of 40% of the original oil in place (OOIP) obtained from control water flood test. Moreover, the nanoparticles mobilized residual oil and incremented oil recovery up to 9.2% of the OOIP. Displacement studies show that no single mechanism could account for the EOR effect with the application of nanoparticles. Instead, the mobilization of oil seemed to occur through a combination of reduced oil/water IFT, change in the rock surface roughness and wettability to more water-wet, and microscopic flow diversion due to clogging of the pores.

Cyclodextrin polymers have high applicability in pharmaceutical formulations due to better biocompatibility, solubility enhancement, loading capacity and controlled drug release than parent the cyclodextrins. The cytotoxicity and cell uptake of new cationic beta-cyclodextrin monomers and polymers were evaluated as suitable material for nasal formulations and their protective effects on cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide were studied. PC12 and CACO-2 cells were selected as the neuronal and epithelial type cells, respectively, to mimic the structure of respiratory and olfactory epithelia of the nasal cavity. All cationic beta-cyclodextrin polymers tested showed dose- and time-dependent toxicity; nevertheless, at 5 µM concentration and 60 min of exposure, the quaternary-ammonium-beta-cyclodextrin soluble polymer could be recognized as non-toxic. Based on these results, fluorescently labelled quaternary-ammonium-beta-cyclodextrin monomer and polymer were selected for uptake studies in CACO-2 cells. The monomeric and polymeric beta-cyclodextrins were internalized in the cytoplasm of CACO-2 cells; the cationic monomer showed higher permeability than the hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin, employed as comparison. Therefore, these cationic beta-cyclodextrins showed potential as excipients able to improve the nasal absorption of drugs. Furthermore, amino-beta-cyclodextrin and beta-cyclodextrin soluble polymers were able to reduce oxidative damage in PC12 and CACO-2 cells and thus could be studied as bioactive carriers or potential drugs for cells protection against oxidative stress.

Various methods of polymer surface tailoring have been studied to control the changes in wetting behavior. Polymers having precisely controlled wetting behavior in a specific environment are blessed with a wealth of opportunities and potential applications exploitable in biomaterial engineering. The controlled wetting behavior can be obtained by combining surface chemistry and morphology. Plasma assisted polymer surface modification technique have played a significant part to control surface chemistry and morphology. This review focuses on plasma polymerization and investigations regarding surface chemistry, surface wettability, coating kinetics, as well as coating stability. We begin with brief overview of plasma polymerization; these include growth mechanisms of plasma polymerization and influence of plasma parameters. Next, surface wettability and theoretical background structures and chemistry of superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic surfaces. In this review, overview of recent work on tunable wettability by tailoring surface chemistry and physical appearance (i.e. substrate texture) is also described. The formation of smart polymer coatings, which adjust their surface wettability by according to outside environment, including, pH, light, electric field and temperature. Finally, the applications of tunable wettability and pH responsiveness of polymer coatings in real life are addressed. This review should be of interest to plasma surface science communality specifically focused controlled wettability of smart polymer surfaces.

The article describes the study of the properties of polytetrafluoroethylene, modified using natural layered silicates—serpentinite. It is shown that the introduction of a small amount of layered silicates significantly increases the tribological characteristics of the material. The additional introduction of magnesium nano-spinels facilitated the formation of an intercalated polymer-silicate nanocomposite.

The integration of modern technologies like intramedullary fixators and advanced biometallic alloys has revolutionized traumatology and orthopedics. While these innovations have improved treatment, the exploration of new materials for implants persists. Tantalum and niobium, both non-toxic with similar properties, are preferred for titanium-based biomedical alloys due to their exceptional biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. Acting as stabilizers in titanium alloys, they form passive oxide layers resisting corrosion and remain compatible with biological systems. The novel Ti21Nb6Ta (TNT) alloy promises enhanced osteosynthesis outcomes. Our in vivo research on experimental animals evaluated the biocompatibility and osteoinduction of TNT compared to Ti-6Al-4V (BT-6) alloy (control group). The study comprised three experiments across different animal species, assessing acute toxicity, irritant effects, and long-term biocompatibility and osteoinduction through simulated osteosynthesis. Results indicated that aqueous extracts from both alloys were non-toxic and non-irritating. Furthermore, both demonstrated high biocompatibility and active osteoinduction potential after three months of implantation.

Zinc (Zn) is the second most abundant metal in the human body, and is essential for the function of 10% of all proteins. As metals cannot be synthesized or degraded, they must be assimilated from diet by specialized transport proteins, which unfortunately also provide an entry route for the toxic metal pollutant cadmium (Cd). The intestinal absorption of Zn depends on the composition of food that is consumed, firstly the amount of Zn itself, and then the quantity of other food constituents such as phytate, protein and calcium (Ca). In cells, Zn is involved in regulation of intermediary metabolism, gene expression, cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. Cellular influx, efflux, subcellular compartmentalization, and trafficking of Zn are coordinated by transporter proteins, the Solute-Linked Carrier 30A and 39A (SLC30A and SLC39A), known as the ZnT and the Zrt-/Irt-like protein (ZIP). Because of its chemical similarity with Zn and Ca, Cd disrupts the physiological functions of both. The concurrent induction of a Zn efflux transporter ZnT1 (SLC30A1) and metallothionein by Cd disrupts the homeostasis and reduces the bioavailability of Zn. The present review highlights the increased mortality and the severity of various diseases, including those induced by COVID-19 infections, among Cd-exposed persons and the roles of Zn and other transport proteins in the manifestation of Cd cytotoxicity. Special emphasis is given to the potential protective effects of Zn against bone, lung and heart diseases associated with Cd exposure. The difficult challenge of determining a permissible intake level of Cd is discussed in relation to the recommended dietary Zn intake levels.

Two new Mn(II) and Zn(II) metal-organic compounds of 1,10-phenanthroline and methyl benzoates viz. [Mn(phen)2Cl2]2-ClBzH (1) and [Zn(4-MeBz)2(2-AmPy)2] (2) (where, 4-MeBz = 4-methylbenzoate, 2-AmPy = 2-aminopyridine, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, 2-ClBzH = 2-chlorobenzoic acid) have been synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, TGA, spectroscopic (FTIR, electronic) and single crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. Crystal structure analysis of the compounds reveals the presence of various non-covalent interactions which provides stability to the crystal structures. Crystal structure analysis of the compound 1 reveals the formation of supramolecular dimer of 2-ClBzH enclathrated within the hexameric host cavity formed by the neighboring monomeric units. Compound 2 is a mononuclear compound of Zn(II) where flexible binding topologies of 4-CH3Bz is observed with the metal centre. Moreover various non-covalent interactions such as lp(O)-π, lp(Cl)-π, C‒H∙∙∙Cl, π-stacking interactions as well as N‒H∙∙∙O, C‒H∙∙∙O and C‒H∙∙∙π hydrogen bonding interactions are found to be involved in plateauing the molecular self-association of the compounds. The remarkable enclathration of the H-bonded 2-ClBzH dimer into a supramolecular cavity formed by two [Mn(phen)2Cl2] complexes has been further studied theoretically using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, non-covalent interaction (NCI) plot index and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) computational tools. Synergistic effects have been also analysed using molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) surface analysis.

Nanoporous materials, such as Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs), are renowned for their high selectivity as gas adsorbents due to their specific surface area, nanoporosity, and active surface chemistry. A significant challenge for their widespread application is their behavior and reduced gas uptake in wet conditions, attributed to competitive adsorption between gas and water. The current understanding of gas adsorption in wet materials is constrained by studies that utilize only small amounts of powdered porous materials (in the milligram range) within very small reactors (1-5 mL). This leaves a significant gap in knowledge about gas adsorption behaviors in larger reactors and when MOF sample sizes are increased (to the gram scale) for scaling up the process. Additionally, there is a notable dearth of experimental research in situations where MOFs are heavily saturated with water. To address these gaps, this study measures CH4 adsorption in MOFs under conditions of high moisture content, using larger samples of MOFs (in grams) and a large volume reactor. We selected commercially available MOFs, including HKUST-1, ZIF-8, MOF-303, and activated carbon. A high-pressure isotherms (at T = 274.15 K) using volumetric approach were measured to qualitatively compare the moles of gas adsorbed under both dry and wet conditions across different MOFs and weights. Experimental results show that the presence of water led to a decrease in total CH4 mmol adsorption in MOFs, with a more significant decrease observed in hydrophilic MOFs compared to hydrophobic ones. For hydrophilic MOFs, presence of crossover isotherms at crossover pressure provided evidence of water's conversion to hydrate and its positive role in enhancing total gas uptake, which varied among different hydrophilic MOFs. Oversaturated MOFs showed a larger deviation between dry and wet cases at higher pressures. The high-pressure isotherm data confirm the positive role of hydrophilic MOFs in the conversion of water to hydrate in oversaturated MOFs when MOFs sample size is large.

Quasi-solid composited electrolytes were produced by LiFSI initiated polymerized poly-(Dioxolane) (PDOL) with garnet-LLZO (Li7La2Zr3O12) nanofibers and used in lithium-metal batteries. Linear sweep voltammetry shows that the initial oxidation voltage of 4.6 V for Gel-10% (G10, 10% wt. LLZO in PDOL) vs Li/Li+. EIS test of stainless steel// stainless steel symmetric cells for Gel-1% (G1), Gel-5% (G5) and Gel-10% (G10) show ion conductivity (5*10-5 S/cm). Li/G10/Li symmetric cells have stable stripping-plating cycling performance over 1300 hours continuously with the current density of 0.1 mA/cm2 at 25 oC, indicating a good interface contact and stable lithium-ion transport pathway through the composite electrolytes. LFP/G10/Li batteries have stable charge-discharge plateau, low polarization voltage of 0.07-volt, energy efficiency of 95% and coulombic efficiency of ~99% at current density of 26.3 mA/g at 25 oC for over 100 cycles.

Tanning, crucial for leather production, relies heavily on chromium yet poses risks due to chromium's oxidative conversion, leading to significant wastewater and solid waste generation. Physico-chemical methods are typically used for heavy metal removal, but they have drawbacks, prompting interest in eco-friendly biological remediation techniques like biosorption, bioaccumulation, and biotransformation. The EU Directive (2018/850) mandates alternatives to landfilling or incineration for industrial textile waste management, highlighting the importance of environmentally conscious practices for leather products' end-of-life management, with com-posting being the most researched and viable option. This study aimed to isolate microorganisms from tannery wastewater and identify those responsible for different types of tanned leather biodegradation. Using a leather biodegradation assay (ISO 20136) with tannery and municipal wastewaters as inoculum, bacterial shifts during leather biodegradation were observed. Over 10,000 bacterial species were identified in all analyzed samples, with 8 bacterial strains isolated from tannery wastewater. Identification of bacterial genera like Acinetobacter, Brevundimo-nas, and Mycolicibacterium provides insights into potential microbial candidates for enhancing leather biodegradability, wastewater treatment, and heavy metal bioremediation in industrial applications.

The highly crystalline ZnAl Layered Double Hydroxides (ZnAl-NO3- LDHs) are utilized for the potential transformation into Mixed Metal oxides (MMO) through thermal decomposition and used further for the photodegradation of phenol to assess the influence of calcination on ZnAl LDHs with enhanced photoactivity. The structure, composition, and morphological evolution of ZnAl-LDHs to ZnO-based MMO nanocomposites, which are composed of ZnO and ZnAl2O4, after calcination at different temperatures (400-600 ºC), are all thoroughly examined in this work. The final ZnO and ZnAl2O4 base nanocomposites showed enhanced photocatalytic activity. The findings demonstrated that calcining ZnAl-LDHs from 400 to 600 °C increased the specific surface area and also enhanced the interlayer spacing of d003 while the transformation of LDHs into ZnO/ZnAl2O4 nanocomposite through calcining the ZnAl-LDH precursor at 600 °C showed significant photocatalytic properties, leading to complete mineralization of phenol under UV irradiation.

We suppose that a Cooper pair (CP) will experience a damping force exerted by the condensed matter. A Langevin equation of a CP in two dimensional condensed matter is established. Following a method similar to Nelson's stochastic mechanics, generalized Schr\"{o}dinger equation of a CP in condensed matter is derived. If the CPs move with a constant velocity, then the corresponding direct current (DC) electrical conductivity can be calculated. Therefore, a Drude like formula of resistivity of CPs is derived. We suppose that the damping coefficient of CPs in two dimensional cuprate superconductors is a linear function of temperature. Then the resistivity and scattering rate of CPs turn out to be also linear-in-temperature. The origin of linear-in-temperature resistivity and Planckian dissipation in cuprate superconductors may be the linear temperature dependence of the damping coefficient of CPs.

Heavy metal pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health worldwide. In response to this pressing issue, bioremediation has emerged as a promising approach for mitigating contamination. This paper adopts a bibliographic method to explore the key techniques and applications of bioremediation. Furthermore, we delve into the most prominent threats to human environmental health and the corresponding remediation methods. Additionally, we discuss the future trajectory of bioremediation research, with a particular focus on the integration of big data and machine learning technologies. These advanced methodologies hold great potential for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of environmental remediation efforts in the face of escalating pollution challenges.

In order to study the feasibility of copper-nickel smelting slag（CNSS） and palygorskite for large-scale consumption and utilization in the field of mine filling, gellable composite materials were prepared from copper-nickel smelting slag ,cement and palygorskite. The effects of palygorskite addition and curing time on the mechanical properties and microstructure of copper-nickel smelting slag-based cementitious materials were studied in detail. The results showed that the addition of palygorskite had a positive effect on the curing of the cemented filler of the non-ferrous smelting slag by promoting the early hydration reaction. palygorskite also affected the mechanical properties of the cementitious materials with different maintenance times and the ability to cure heavy metals. The strength of gellable composite materials reaches 23.05MPa when 1% palygorskite, 50% of copper-nickel smelting slag and 48% cement were used, which meet the standards requirements of filling materials for mine goaf. The addition of 1% palygorskite can improve the ability of cementitious materials to solidify heavy metals to realize the economic utilization of solid waste in mining areas.

We discuss how the interaction of electrons with an overdamped optical phonon can give rise to a strange-metal behavior over extended temperature and frequency ranges. Although the mode has a finite frequency, an increasing damping shifts spectral weight to progressively lower energies so that, despite the ultimate Fermi liquid character of the system at the lowest temperatures and frequencies, the transport and optical properties of the electron system mimic a marginal Fermi liquid behavior. Within this shrinking Fermi liquid scenario, we extensively investigate the electron self-energy in all frequency and temperature ranges, emphasizing similarities and differences with respect to the marginal Fermi liquid scenario.

In the context of circular economy that recommends the most efficient use of waste, algae wastes have a huge potential for valorisation. In this study, algae wastes obtained after alkaline extraction of active compounds from two types of marine algae (green algae – Ulva sp. and red algae – Callithamnion sp.), were used as biosorbents to remove metal ions from aqueous effluents. Their efficiency in the biosorption processes was tested for Zn(II), Cu(II) and Co(II) ions, considered technologically valuable metal ions. The batch mono-component experiments performed under optimal conditions (pH = 5.0; 4.0 g biosorbent/L; 22 ± 1C), showed that more than 75 % of the metal ions are removed when their initial concentration is less than 1.25 mmol/L. The very good fit of the experimental data with the pseudo-second order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, and the high values obtained for the maximum biosorption capacity (qmax: Cu(II) (0.52 mmol/g) > Zn(II) (0.41 mmol/g) > Co(II) (0.39 mmol/g) for G-AWB, and qmax: Cu(II) (1.78 mmol/g) > Zn(II) (1.72 mmol/g) > Co(II) (1.66 mmol/g) for R-AWB) highlights the potential use of these biosorbents to remove such technologically valuable metal ions from industrial wastewater. This possibility was tested using industrial wastewater samples obtained from the metal coating industry. Quantitative removal (> 91 %) of Zn(II), Cu(II) and Co(II) ions was obtained when their initial concentration was adjusted to 50 mg/L. Also, the rapid and efficient desorption of these metal ions from loaded-biosorbents, by simple treatment with small volumes of HNO3 (10-1 mol/L), further emphasizes the possibility of their recovery and reuse in the technological circuit. The results included in this study indicate that algae wastes have the potential to be used in industrial effluents decontamination processes and opens new perspectives for the implementation of circular economy principles.

An inorganic solid electrolyte is the most favorable candidate for replacing flammable liquid electrolytes in lithium batteries. Lithium Lanthanum Zirconium Oxide (LLZO) is considered as a promising solid electrolyte due to its safe operating potential window (0-5V) combined with its good electrochemical stability. In this work, 250 g batches of pre-sintered Tadoped (Li7La3Zr1.6Ta0.4O12, TaLLZO) were synthesized for bulk production of dense LLZO electrolyte. A simple two-step thermal treatment process was developed. The first thermal step at 950 °C initiates nucleation of LLZO carefully controlling process parameters such as heating atmosphere, temperature and dopant concentration. In the second thermal step at 1150 °C, sintered discs were obtained as solid electrolytes, with relative densities of 96%. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the phase purity of the sintered TaLLZO disc, and refined data was used to calculate the lattice parameter (12.944 Å). Furthermore, the presence of the Ta dopant in the disc was confirmed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The ionic and electronic conductivity values of TaLLZO disc were 104 S cm-1 and 10-10 S cm-1, respectively. These values confirm that the prepared (Ta-LLZO) discs exhibit ionic conductivity while being electronically insulating, being suitable for use as solid electrolytes with the requisite electrical properties.

The work presents a mathematical model of a thermogravimetric curve for the growth and simultaneous sublimation of scale on a metal or alloy surface. Reduction of the reaction area as a result of the formation of oxides of alloying elements (for obtaining the basic oxide) is considered for the alloy. For metals, the case where this area is increased as a result of powder metal crushing is also considered. The equations that were obtained are employed to explain the kinetic curves of the mass change of the samples.

Aluminum matrix nanocomposites have been the subject of much attention due to their extraordinary mechanical properties and thermal stability. This research focuses on producing and characterizing an aluminum matrix reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) nanometric particles. The conventional powder metallurgy route was used to produce the nanocomposites, and the dispersion and mixing process was carried out by ultrasonication. The conditions of the dispersion and the volume fraction of the SiC were evaluated in the production of the nanocomposites. Microstructural characterization was carried out using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Mechanical characterization was carried out using hardness and tensile tests. The dispersion agent was investigated, and isopropanol leads to better dispersion with fewer agglomerates. Increasing the volume fraction of the reinforcement improves the hardness of the nanocomposites. However, greater agglomeration of the reinforcement is observed for larger volume fractions. The greatest increase in hardness (77% increase compared to the hardness of the Al matrix) is obtained with 1.0 vol % of SiC, corresponding to the sample with the best dispersion. The mechanical characterization through tensile tests attests to the effect of the reinforcement on the Al matrix. The main strengthening mechanisms identified were the load transfer, the texture hardening, Orowan strengthening, and the increase in the density of dislocations in the nanocomposites.

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are used in catalysis due to their high specific surface area and porous structure. The dispersed active sites and limited reaction space render MOFs have the potential for highly selective electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR). Meanwhile, formic acid (HCOOH) is attracting attention as a liquid product with high economic benefits. This review summarizes the MOFs and their derivatives applied for ECO2RR into HCOOH products. The preparation methods of MOFs as electrocatalysts and their unique advantages are discussed. A series of MOFs, and MOFs derivatives obtained by electrochemical reduction or carbonization processes are highlighted, including metal nanomaterials, carbon-based nanocomposites, single-atom catalysts, and bimetallic nanocomposites. Depending on the MOFs building units (metal ions and organic linkers) and the reaction conditions of derivatization, MOFs-based catalysts exhibit rich diversity and controllable modulation of catalytic performance. Finally, the challenges encountered at this stage and the future research directions of MOFs-based catalysts are proposed.

Chenodeoxycholic acid (CA) is a naturally occurring bile acid that is produced in the liver from cholesterol. Three CA complexes using Zn(II), Mg(II), and Ca(II) ions were synthesized to examine the chelation tendencies of CA towards these metal ions. The complexation reaction of CA with the metal ions under investigation was conducted with a 1:1 molar ratio (CA to metal) at 60-70°C in natural media (pH 7-8), which consisted of a binary solvent of MeOH and H2O (1:1). The resulting CA complexes were characterized using analytical data (metal, H, C, and Cl, analysis) and spectral data (UV-visible, FT-IR, and 1H NMR) to elucidate the complexes’ structures. The results suggested that CA in anion form utilized oxygen atoms of the carboxylate group (-COO−) to capture Zn(II), Mg(II), and Ca(II) ions. This produced complexes with the general compositions of [Zn(CA)(H2O)Cl], [Mg(CA)(H2O)Cl]H2O, and [Ca(CA)(H2O)Cl]2H2O, respectively. The Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay was then used to explore the bioactivity of the CA complexes toward three fungal species, three Gram-positive bacteria, and two Gram-negative bacteria. The Ca(II) and Mg(II) complexes exhibited marked inhibitory effects on the cell growth of the fungal species Aspergillus niger with potency equal to 127% and 116% of the activity of the positive control, respectively. The Zn(II) and Ca(II) complexes strongly inhibited the growth of Penicillium sp., while the Zn(II) and Mg(II) complexes showed strong growth inhibition towards the Gram-negative species Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The chemical reaction between the quinolone antibiotic oxolinic acid (OA) and Fe(III), Zn(II), Ca(II), and Mg(II) ions results in the formation of metal-based complexes with the following formulas: [Fe(OA)(H2O)2Cl2]2H2O, [Zn(OA)(H2O)Cl]2H2O, [Ca(OA)(H2O)Cl], and [Mg(OA)(H2O)Cl]. We used analytical (C, N, H, Cl, metal analysis) and spectral (FT-IR, 1H NMR, UV-visible) data to structurally characterize the synthesized metal-based complexes of the OA molecule. We found that the OA molecule utilizes the two oxygen atoms of the carboxylate group and the pyridone C=O group to bind the investigated metal ions. The morphological properties of the synthesized OA complexes were assessed using X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biological properties, specifically antibacterial and antifungal activity, of the synthesized complexes were evaluated in vitro using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion protocol with five bacterial and three fungal strains. The complex containing Ca(II) ions exhibited remarkable antibacterial and antifungal activity against all tested microbial strains, surpassing or equaling the potency of the standard drugs (streptomycin for antibacterial assays and ketoconazole for antifungal assays).

Compared to other 2D materials, MBenes are at an early stage in both experimental and theoretical approaches. However, the wide range of possible 2D structures leads to novel and challenging properties and their consequent applications. From all the possible stoichiometries, we have performed a theoretical study of orthorhombic and hexagonal M2B2 MBenes in the framework of the Density Functional Theory. We have found that both symmetries of Cr2B2, Fe2B2, and Zr2B2 show a metallic behavior and could be grown under certain conditions, as they are demonstrated to be dynamically stable. Moreover, the values of the magnetic moment, in specific ferromagnetic cases exceeding 2.5 μB/M2B2, make them suitable as robust 2D magnets. All our findings represent an important step in the understanding of MBenes and open several windows to future research in fields like energy conversion and storage, sensing, catalysis, biochemistry, or nanotechnology, among others.

The phenomena of electrical conductivity and electromigration in metallic systems are related, since in both cases the basic physical process is the scattering of conduction electrons by metal ions. Numerous searches have been made for equations connecting the conductivity with electromigration. In the case of a liquid metal, when using the Drude-Sommerfeld (DS) conduc-tivity equation, it was not possible to obtain a quantitative relationship between these phenomena, which would be correct. Attempts to find such a relationship when taking into ac-count the N. Mott correction (g - factor) in the DS equation were unsuccessful. This article proposes a different correction (b - factor) to the DS equation, which takes into account the pos-sibility of varying the momentum transferred by the conduction electron to a metal ion during the scattering. This correction allows to establish a quantitative relationship between conductivity and electromigration, as well as between electromigration in various binary systems with common components, in agreement with experiment. The proposed theory describes well, in particular, two- and multi-component metal systems of any concentration (the consistency rule for triangles A-B, B-C, C-A). The value of b - factor smoothly changes depending on the heat of vaporization of the metal, per unit volume.

The review analyzes the studies published mainly in the last 10-15 years, on the synthesis, structure, and sensor properties of semiconductor nanocomposites. Particular attention is paid to the interaction between nanoparticles of the sensitive layer and its effect on the structure, sensitivity, and selectivity of semiconductor sensor systems. Various mechanisms are considered of interaction between nanoparticles in metal oxide composites including incorporation of metal ions of one component into the structure of another, heterocontacts between different nanoparticles, and core-shell systems, as well as their influence on the characteristics of gas sensors. The experimental data and studies on the modeling of charge distribution in semiconductor nanoparticles, which determine the conductivity and sensor effect in one- and two-component systems, are also discussed. It is shown that the model which considers the interactions of nanoparticles best describes the experimental results. Some mechanisms of detection selectivity are considered in the conclusion.

Solid oxide cells are capable of efficiently converting various chemical energy carriers to electricity and vice versa. The urgent challenge nowadays is the faster degradation rate compared with other fuel cell/electrolyzer technologies. To understand the degradation mechanisms, simulation of a solid oxide cell is helpful. Since most previous research developed models using commercial software, such as COMSOL and ANSYS Fluent, a gap for knowledge transfer is being gradually formed between academia and industry due to licensing issues. This paper introduces a multiphysics model, developed by a computational code, openFuelCell2. The code is implemented with an open-source library, OpenFOAM. It accounts for momentum transfer, mass transfer, electrochemical reactions and metal interconnect oxidation. The model can precisely predict I-V curves under different temperatures, fuel humidity and operation modes. Comparison between OpenFOAM and COMSOL simulations shows good agreement. The metal interconnect oxidation is modelled, which can predict the thickness of the oxide scale under different protective coatings. Simulations are conducted by assuming an ultra-thin film resistance on the rib surface. It is revealed that coatings fabricated by atmospheric plasma spraying can efficiently prevent metal interconnect oxidation, with a contribution of only 0.53 \% to the total degradation rate.

Due to its built-up chemoresistance after prolonged usage, the demand for replacing platinum in metal-based drugs (MBD) is rising. The first MBD approved by the FDA for cancer therapy was cisplatin in 1978. Even after nearly four and a half decades of trials, there has been no significant improvement in osteosarcoma (OS) therapy. In fact, many MBD have been developed, but the chemoresistance problem raised by platinum remains unresolved. This motivates us to elucidate the possibilities of the copper and zinc (CuZn) combination to replace platinum in MBD. Thus, the anti-chemoresistance properties of CuZn and their physiological functions for OS therapy are highlighted. Herein, we summarise their chelators, main organic solvents, and ligand functions in their structures that are involved in anti-chemoresistance properties. Through this review, it is rational to discuss their ligands’ roles as biosensors in drug delivery systems. Hereafter, an in-depth understanding of their redox and photoactive function relationships is provided. The disadvantage is that the other functions of biosensors cannot be elaborated on here. As a result, this review is being developed, which is expected to intensify OS drugs with higher cure rates. Nonetheless, this advancement intends to solve the major chemoresistance obstacle towards clinical efficacy.

The integration of metal nanoparticles and solid carriers can achieve ideal stability, high load and good conductivity. In this work, copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) were sequentially deposited on a cobalt metal-organic framework (Co-MOF) by bonding with exposed imino groups, followed by a reduction reaction to prepare a new Cu@Co-MOF composite. Cu@Co-MOF acts as a non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor to detect glucose (Glu) in an alkaline medium. The composite working electrode of Cu@Co-MOF/GCE (GCE = glassy carbon electrode) improves the electrocatalytic activity for Glu oxidation. Cu@Co-MOF/GCE shows excellent electrocatalytic performances in Glu concentration ranging 0.005~1.8 mmol∙L⁻¹ (mM): the sensitivities are 282.89 μA∙mM⁻¹∙cm⁻² in 0.005-0.4 mM Glu and 113.15 μA∙mM⁻¹∙cm⁻² in 0.4-1.8 mM Glu respectively with low detection limit of 1.6 μM (S/N = 3) and high selectivity and stability.

Guided ultrasonic waves are suitable for use in the context of structural health monitoring of thin-walled, plate-like structures. Hence, observing the wave propagation in the plates can provide an indication of whether damage has occurred in the structure. In this work, the wave propagation in fiber metal laminate consisting of thin steel foils and layers of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer is studied, focusing on the main propagation characteristics like dispersion diagrams and displacement fields. For this purpose, the dispersion diagrams derived from the analytical framework and numerical simulations are first determined and compared to each other. Next, the displacement fields are computed using the global matrix method for two excitation frequencies. The results derived from the analytical framework is used to validate numerically determined displacement fields based on a 2D and a 3D modeling approach. For both investigations the results of the analytical treatment and the numerical simulation show good agreement. Furthermore, the displacement field reveals the typical and well-known characteristics of the propagation of guided waves in thin-walled structures. Since the use of full 3D models involves a very high computational cost, this work also successfully investigates the possibility for model order reduction to decrease the computational time and costs of the simulation without the loss of accuracy.

The application of metal-matrix composite coatings for protecting and improving the service life of sliding components has demonstrated to have the potentials of meeting the requirements of a diverse range of engineering industries. Recently, a significant body of research has been devoted to study the mechanical and tribological performance of dispersion-strengthened MCrAlY coatings. These coatings belong to a class of emerging wear-resistant materials, offering improved properties and being considered as promising candidates for the protection of engineering structural materials exposed to tribological damage, especially at elevated temperature regimes. This paper attempts to comprehensively review the different reinforcements used in the processing of MCrAlY-based alloys and how they influence the mechanical and tribological properties of the corresponding coatings. Further, the major fabrication techniques together with their benefits and challenges are also reviewed. Discussion on the failure mechanisms of these coatings as well as the main determining factors are also included. In addition, a comprehensive survey of studies and investigations in recent times are summarized and elaborated to further substantiate the review.

Volcanic fumaroles are openings in the earth's surface, where volcanic gases discharge to the atmosphere. Metallic and non-metallic elements contained in gases form specific mineral precipitates upon cooling. Although the presence of metals in fumarolic gases has long been known, their concentrations are generally low and difficult to measure directly. A laboratory model of a fumarole may resolve the situation if the complex gas composition could be accurately reproduced. Here we describe a new experimental approach that allows accurately simulating fumarolic gases in terms of their main components (H₂O, CO₂, S, HCl), as well as adding volatile metal compounds. Gas is generated inside a special flow-through reactor, at the outlet of which the elements contained in the gas form temperature-dependent mineral sequence inside the attached silica-glass tube. Using this installation, we obtained laboratory sublimates from reducing (H₂S-rich) gases similar to natural ones in terms of mineral composition and mineral habits. Twenty-one phases have been identified in sublimates, among which are simple and complex chlorides, simple sulfides and six sulfosalts. Comparison of the sublimate deposition from H₂O-rich gas at 1 bar with similar works performed in evacuated ampoules at low pressure showed that fumarolic gases behave like an ideal gas, in which molecules do not interact with each other, and reactive compounds in the gas serve in fact as an inert carrier of volatile metals species. Changing the composition of the gas at the outlet of the installation, its flow rate and temperature, we can observe the corresponding changes in mineral precipitates and in such a way study the factors affecting mineral formation on natural fumarolic fields.

Particle layers employing conductive transition metal nitrides have been proposed as possible alternative plasmonic materials for photovoltaic applications due to their reduced losses compared to metal nanostructures. We critically compare the photocurrent gain due to an additional layer made of nanopillars of nitrides with other material classes obtained in an already highly optimized doped c-Si baseline solar cell with accurate doping profile from measurements. A relative photocurrent gain with respect to the baseline cell of on average 5% to 10% is observed, with a few cases achieving around 30% gain. While the local field enhancement is moderate resonances for nitrides spread over the whole UV-VIS range. For some nitrides, the shading effect remains a problem similar as for metals, but others behave more like dielectric scatterers with high photocurrent gain.

In this paper we present magnetoelectric properties of metal/metal-oxide/metal junctions. We use Ti and Fe as metallic layers separated by the porous metal-oxides of iron or titanium formed with the anodization method. This allowed to prepare double junctions with at least one ferromagnetic layer. Here we show magnetoresistance and current-voltage characteristics of the junctions together with their magnetic characteristics. We found positive or negative magnetoresistance depending on junction composition. We discuss also the nature of differential resistance calculated from I-V characteristics. Our findings show that the strongest influence on observed behaviour has a top metallic layer and the interface between this layer and anodized oxide where strong interatomic diffusion is expected.

We report that ethanol, used together with water, plays a crucial role in tuning the structures of a zirconium-based Metal-Organic Framework, the 12-connected MOF-801, and the possible mechanisms of this modulating effect. By employing the cosolvent system of ethanol and water just under room temperature without the presence of a monotopic carboxylic acid as the modulator, MOF-801 in various morphologies of different sizes can be synthesized. The linear correlation between the ethanol/water ratio and the crystal sizes is also demonstrated. The growth mechanism is mainly explained by ethanol’s binding with the metal ion clusters and the Marangoni Flow Effect. Ethanol competes with the linker molecules in coordinating with the Zr metal clusters, a role similar to that of the modulators. The Marangoni Flow Effect, which dominates at a certain solvent ratio, further promotes the 1-D alignment of the MOF-801 crystals.

The incorporation of nanomaterials on (bio)sensors based on composite materials has led to important advances in analytical chemistry field due to the extraordinary properties that these materials offer. Nanodiamonds (NDs) are a novel type of material that has raised much attention, as they have the possibility of being produced on large scale by using relatively inexpensive synthetic methodologies. Moreover, NDs present some other interesting features as suitability for fluorescence due to surface functionalization and a proved biocompatibility, which makes them well suited for biomedical applications. In addition, NDs can be modified with metallic nanoparticles (NP), such as silver or gold, in order to combine the special features of both. The aim of this research work is the nanostructuration of novel sensing devices using NDs combined with silver (Ag@NDs) and gold (Au@NDs) nanoparticles. A complete morphological and electrochemical characterization as function of the prepared nanocomposite composition have been performed in order to improve the electroanalytical properties of the developed (bio)sensors.

Water splitting plays an important role in electrochemical and photoelectrochemical conversion of energy devices. Electrochemical water splitting by the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a straightforward route to produce hydrogen (H2), which requires an efficient electrocatalysts to minimize energy consumption. Recent advances have created a rapid rise in new electrocatalysts, particularly those based on non-precious metals. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the recent developments of ternary and quaternary 6d-group transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) based electrocatalysts for water splitting, especially for HER. Detailed discussion is organized from binary to quaternary TMCs including, surface engineering, heterostructures, chalcogen substitutions, and hierarchically structural design in TMCs. Moreover, emphasis is placed on future research scope and important challenges facing these electrocatalysts for further development in their performance towards water splitting.

Hybrid inorganic-polymer nanocomposites can be employed in diverse applications due to the potential combination of desired properties from both the organic and inorganic components. The use of novel bottom-up in situ synthesis methods for the fabrication of these nanocomposites is advantageous compared to top-down ex situ mixing methods, as it offers increased control over the structure and properties of the material. In this review, the focus will be on the application of the sol-gel process for the synthesis of inorganic oxide nanoparticles in epoxy and polysiloxane matrices. The effect of the synthesis conditions and the reactants used on the inorganic structures formed, the interactions between the polymer chains and the inorganic nanoparticles, and the resulting properties of the nanocomposites are appraised from several studies over the last two decades. Lastly, alternative in situ techniques and the applications of various polymer-inorganic oxide nanocomposites are briefly discussed.

Joining of aluminium alloys to steels has been extensively studied, especially in the automotive sector. However, aluminium alloys are known to be difficult to join with steels when methods involving fusion welding are used because of hot cracking problem. Hence, a high strength joint between these dissimilar metals would be of benefit especially in reducing the weight of products. In this work the torch brazing method was applied to join AR500 steel with AA7075 aluminium alloy using Al-Si-Zn base filler metal at various flame times. The effect of the brazing work on the intermetallic phase formation and the mechanical strength of the joints were investigated. In this work, the maximum shear load obtained was 6460 N and the presence of the intermetallic phases had reduced the shear strength of the brazed joints. However, the torch brazing process using Al-Si-Zn filler metal had successfully facilitated the joining of these dissimilar metals.

Air pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), as well as water pollutants including heavy metal, are harmful to human and environment. Effective control and reduction of their pollution is therefore an important topic for today’s scientists. Fly ash (FA) is a type of industrial waste that can cause multiple environmental problems if discharged into the air. On the other hand, because of its high porosity, large specific surface area, and other unique characteristics, the FA can also be used as a low-cost and high efficient adsorbent with some simple modifications. This paper reviews the effects of FA on treatment of the above air and water pollution based on our research experience over many years, including to the current status of global FA utilization, physicochemical properties, principle of adsorption, and the application direction of FA in the future. It focuses on the use of nanocomposite technology to fabricate functional FA fibrous membranes to adsorb VOCs from air, and treat heavy metal wastewater. This present review first describes the fabrication technology of FA nanocomposites and their mechanism of adsorption VOCs from air. Utilization of nanofiber technology to fabricate multi-functional FA emerging composite materials to mitigate air and water pollution has great potential in the future, especially use of pollutant material to control other pollutants.

Soil pollution has been estimated using soil analysis and leaching test. These methods could show different data from reality due to effects by soil properties such as grain size and mineral composition. Therefore, this study advocates a new assessment and monitoring method of heavy metal polluted soil using fruticose lichens. Lichens growing at abandoned mine sites and unpolluted areas in southwest Japan and their substrata were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to clarify the relationships between the heavy metal concentrations in lichens and soils, and their heavy metal absorption properties. Concentrations of Cu, Zn, As, and Pb in the lichens were positively correlated with those in the soil. Variability of the relationships did not depend on the lichen species, location, habitat, or the conditions of soils. The analyzed lichens had neither competitive nor antagonistic properties in their heavy metal absorption, which make them good biomarkers of heavy metal pollution of soil. The distribution maps of average heavy metal concentrations at each sampling region detected almost all of the Cu, Zn, and As pollution of soil. Therefore, lichens could be used in practical applications to assess Cu, Zn, and As pollution of soils.

The objective of this study was to investigate the concentration and spatial distribution patterns of six potentially toxic heavy metal elements (Mn, Zn, Cr, Pb, Cu and Ni) in bus station dusts in the Xifeng district of Gansu province, NW China. The contents were analyzed for Mn, Zn, Cr, Pb, Cu and Ni by using S8 TIGER Brochures wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Geoaccumulation index (Igeo ), enrichment factor (EF), pollution index (PI) and integrated pollution index(IPI) were calculated to evaluate the heavy metal contamination level of bus station dusts. The results indicate that, in comparison with the background values of local soil, bus station dusts in Xifeng have elevated metal concentrations as a whole. The concentrations of heavy metals investigated in this paper are compared with the reported data of other cities. The results show that the arithmetic means of Mn, Zn, Cr, Pb, Cu and Ni are 440.8, 137.9, 60.0, 42.8, 33.5 and 19.8mg kg−1 respectively. The mean values of Igeo reveal the order of Ni<Mn<Cr<Cu<Zn<Pb. The high Igeo and EF for Cu, Zn and Pb in bus station dusts indicate that there is a considerable Cu, Zn and Pb pollution, which mainly originate from traffic and industry activities. The Igeo and EF of Ni, Mn and Cr are low and the assessment results indicate an absence of distinct Ni, Mn and Cr pollution in bus station dusts. The assessment results of PI also support Cu, Zn and Pb in bus station dusts presented middle pollution, and IPI indicates heavy metals of bus station dusts polluted seriously.

Hydrogels have gained significant attention as vehicles for transdermal delivery systems. These polymeric-structured substances have been implemented in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. Many factors are employed in their preparation. Light, pH, temperature and specific molecules ligands are commonly used in the production of hydrogels. The Transdermal delivery system (TDD) is a widely used route, used to deliver actives/drugs via the skin. Hydrogels as a TDD have been shown to be efficient in enhancing the efficacy in delivering the actives and drugs. The aim of this review is to discuss the hydrogels application in both dermatological therapeutic and cosmetic applications, covering the types, and properties of hydrogel polymer networks. Furthermore, this review presents one of the most extensively used polymers (Hyaluronic acid HA) in this field and discusses the properties, preparation methods and applications of HA hydrogel patches as a delivery system, including methods of loading the actives and the releasing of these actives from them.

A co-curing resin system consisting of 9368 epoxy resin for prepreg and 6808 epoxy resin for resin transfer molding (RTM) was developed. A corresponding preparation method of novel polymer composite bolted T-joint with internal skeleton and external skin was proposed based on prepreg-RTM co-curing process, and novel T-joints were fabricated. A series of conventional configuration T-joints based on RTM process and T-joints made of 2A12 aluminum alloy were prepared simultaneously. Bending performances were studied on these T-joints experimentally. The results indicate that 9368 epoxy resin and 6808 epoxy resin exhibit good compatibility in rheological and thermophysical properties. The novel T-joints prepared with prepreg-RTM co-curing process show no obvious fiber local winding or resin-rich regions inside, and the interface quality between internal skeleton and external skin is excellent. The main failure modes of the novel T-joint under bending load include separation of skin and skeleton and fracture along the thickness on the base panel; the skeleton carries the main bending load, but there is still load transfer between external skin and internal skeleton through their interface. The internal damages of the novel T-joint are highly consistent with surface damages observed visually, facilitating the detection and timely discovery of damages. The initial stiffness, damage initiation load, and ultimate load of the novel T-joint are 1.65 times, 5.89 times, and 3.45 times that of conventional T-joint, respectively. When considering the influence of density, the relative initial stiffness and relative ultimate load of the novel T-joint are 1.44 times and 2.07 times that of aluminum alloy T-joint, respectively.

Polymer electrolyte was used as a medium for testing the performance of microband electrodes under conditions of linear diffusion. Cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry experiments were performed in such viscous medium, where diffusion rates are much slower than in fluid solutions. Confirmation of the existence of such conditions from the log i vs. log v or log i vs. log t relationships in the current equation always yielded values lower than the expected value of 0.5. This could indicate impure linear diffusion profile, i. e. some contribution from radial diffusion (edge effect). However, performing these tests in monomeric solvents of similar viscosities, such as glycerol or propylene glycol, gave the desired value of 0.5. These results lead to the conclusion that current equations which are based on Fick’s laws may not be applicable for polymer electrolytes, where various obstruction to diffusion make it a more complicated process than in monomeric solvents.

The goal of this article is to provide a review of the experimental techniques and procedures using vibration methods for the Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of Polymer-Matrix Composites (PMC). It aims to be a guide for any researchers to carry out vibration experiments. The linear methods are first introduced. But as PMC is a complex material, these classic methods showed some limits, such as low accuracy for small damages, and a high environmental dependency. This is why the nonlinear methods are secondly studied, considering that the complexity of PMC induces a nonlinear behavior of the structure after damage occurrence. The different damage mechanisms are well explained in order to evaluate the potential of each vibration method to detect them.

The product of ozonolysis, Glycero-(9,10-trioxolane)-trioleate (ozonide of oleic acid triglyceride, [OTOA]), was incorporated into polylactic acid/polycaprolactone (PLA/PCL) blend films in the amount of 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40% w/w. The morphological, mechanical, thermal and antibacterial properties of the biodegradable blend after the OTOA addition were studied. According to DSC and XRD data, the crystallinity degree of PLA/PCL+OTOA films tended to decrease with increase in OTOA content that could be explained by its plasticizing effect. Morphological analysis showed that the structure of the films with the OTOA concentration above 20% drastically changed. Specifically, the interface between the PLA/PCL matrix and OTOA was formed, thereby forming a capsule with the embedded antibacterial agent. The moisture permeability of the resulting PLA/PCL+OTOA films decreased due to the formation of uniformly distributed hydrophobic amorphous zones that prevents water penetration. This architecture affects the tensile characteristics of the films: strength decreases to 5.6 MPa, elastic modulus E by 40%. The behavior of film elasticity is associated with the redistribution of amorphous regions in the matrix. Additionally, PLA/PCL+OTOA films with 20, 30 and 40% of OTOA showed good antibacterial properties on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Raoultella terrigena (Klebsiella terrigena) and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Developed PLA/PCL+OTOA films could be used as packaging materials and wound dressings. By variation of the OTOA content, it is possible to tailor the physical-chemical and antibacterial properties of the developed films for various applications.

Current Li battery technology employs graphite anode and flammable organic liquid electrolytes. Thus, current Li battery is always facing the problems of low energy density and safety. Additionally, sustainable supply of Li due to scarce abundance of Li sources is another problem. All-solid-state Mg battery is expected to solve the problems owing to non-flammable solid-state electrolytes, high capacity/safety of divalent Mg metal anode and high abundance of Mg sources. Therefore, solid-state electrolytes and all-solid-state Mg battery have been researched intensively last two decades. However, realization of all-solid-state Mg battery is still far. In this article, we review recent research progress on all-solid-state Mg battery so that researchers can pursue recent research trend of all-solid-state Mg battery. At first, solid-state electrolyte research is described briefly in the categories of inorganic, organic and inorganic/organic composite electrolytes. After that, the recent research progress of all-solid-state Mg battery is summarized and analyzed. To help readers, we tabulate electrode materials, experimental conditions and performances of all-solid-state Mg battery so that the readers can find necessary information at a glance. In the last, challenges to realize the all-solid-state Mg batteries are visited.

Staudinger taught us that macromolecules were made up of the covalently bonded monomer repeat units chaining up as polymer chains. The chemical nature of the monomer directed the type of covalent bonds conferring most of the specific properties of the polymer. The more the number of repeat units the longer the chains and the more the possibility for the chains to assume a variety of shapes, from an extended elongated one to a more compact coiled one. Also, the chemical process that resulted in the synthesis of macromolecules produced many chains, often not with the same shape or size. The properties of the polymers improved when the chains became longer but it was more difficult to process them: their viscosity increased with molecular weight; viscosity was no longer an intensive property like it was for small liquids. The main question raised in polymer physics remains: how do these long chains interact and move as a group when submitted to shear deformation at high temperature when they are viscous liquids? This question is debated in a field of polymer physics called RHEOLOGY, whose purpose is to understand the viscoelastic aspects of polymer melts deformation. The current consensus is that we need to distinguish two cases: the deformation of “un-entangled chains” for macromolecules with molecular weight, M, smaller than Me, “the entanglement molecular weight”, and the deformation of “entangled” chains for M > Me. Several eminent scientists have extensively studied these 2 cases over the last 70 years. Paul J. Flory, in 1974, and Pierre-Gilles de Gennes, in 1991, have been awarded the Nobel Price in Chemistry and Physics, respectively, for their significant theoretical contribution to understand these challenging problems. For both of these authors the properties of polymers derive from the statistical characteristics of the macromolecule itself, the designated statistical system that defines the thermodynamic state of the polymer. Me, the molecular weight between entanglements, is defined from the rubber elasticity theory and is known to be equal to Mc/2 where Mc is the molecular weight for the entanglements when viscosity measurements are made. The current paradigm is that the viscoelasticity of un-entangled melts ( M < Mc) is well described by the Rouse model and that the entanglement issues raised by the impact of the increase of the length of the macromolecules on the melt viscoelasticity, when M > Mc, are well understood by the reptation model introduced by de Gennes and co-workers. Both models can be classified in the category of “chain dynamics statistics”. In this paper we examine in details the failures and the current challenges facing the current paradigm of polymer rheology: the Rouse model for M < Mc, the reptation model for M > Mc, the time-temperature superposition principle, the strain induced time dependence of viscosity, shear-refinement and sustained-orientation. The basic failure of the current paradigm and its inherent inability to fully describe the experimental reality is documented in this paper. In the discussion and conclusion of the paper we suggest that a different solution to explain the viscoelasticity of polymer chains and of their “entanglement” is needed. This requires a change of paradigm to describe the dynamics of the interactions within the chains and across the chains. A brief description of our currently proposed open dissipative statistical approach, “the Grain-Field Statistics”, is presented.

The blended perfluorinated sulfonic acid ionomers are prepared to have equivalent weight (EW) ~1000, 980, and 830. The catalyst layers (CLs) using blended PFSA ionomers with different side chain lengths and EWs are investigated, compared to the CLs utilizing single ionomers. The IEC results indicate that the blended ionomers have the targeted EWs. As a result, it is found that the blended ionomers exhibit higher ion conductivity than the single ionomers at all temperatures due to higher water uptake of the blended ionomers. Even though they have a similar EW, it implies that the blended ionomers have bulk structure to form competent free volume. The blended ionomers with short side chain (SSC) and low EW can help reduce the activation energy due to the enhanced hydrophobic and hydrophilic segregation. In addition, it is observed that the catalyst layers using the blended ionomer form more porous microstructure to help reduce the resistance of oxygen transport and attributes to lower mass transfer loss. This effect is significantly revealed in the fuel cell operation at not the lower temperature (70 °C) and full humidification (100%) but the elevated temperature (80 °C) and lower relative humidity (50 and 75%). The blended ionomer-based catalyst layers with higher water uptake and porous CL structure result in higher fuel cell performance and better mass transport than the single ionomer-based catalyst layers.

Nonconventional luminescent materials (NLMs) that do not contain traditional aromatic chromophores are of great interest due to their unique chemical structures, optical properties and their potential applications in various areas such as cellular imaging and chemical sensing. However, most reported NLMs show weak or no emission in dilute solutions, severely limiting their applications. In this work, the dynamic hydrogen bonds were utilized to design NLMs with efficient emission in dilute solutions. To further validate the results, polymers P1 and P2 were successfully prepared and investigated. It was found that luminescence quantum efficiency of P1 and P2 at concentration of 0.1 mg/mL in water solution is 8.9 and 0.6%, respectively. The high efficiency can be attributed to the fact that polymer P1 has more intra- or intermolecular dynamic hydrogen bonds and other short interactions than P2 in dilute solutions, allowing P1 to achieve the through-space conjugation effect to increase the degree of system conjugation, restrict molecular motion, and decrease non-radiative transitions, which can effectively improve luminescence. In addition, polymer P2 exhibits the characteristics of clustering-triggered emission, excitation wavelength-dependent and concentration-dependent fluorescence properties, excellent photobleaching resistance, low cytotoxicity and selective recognition of Fe3+. This work is a preliminary study of the luminescence properties of NLMs in dilute solutions via modulating dynamic hydrogen bonds, which can be used as a semi-empirical method to design and construct novel NLMs in future.

As one of the most critical parameters to evaluate the quality and performance of mobile phones, real-time temperature monitoring of the mobile phone integrated chips is vitally important in the electronics industry. Although several different strategies for chip surface temperature measurement have been proposed in recent years, distributed temperature monitoring with the high spatial resolution is still a hot issue to be solved urgently. In this work, a fluorescent film material with photothermal properties containing thermosensitive upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is fabricated for chip surface temperature monitor-ing. The presented fluorescent films have thicknesses ranging from 23 to 90 μm and are both flexible and elastic. Using the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technique, the temperature sens-ing properties of these fluorescent films are investigated. The maximum sensitivity of the fluo-rescent film was measured to be 1.43% K-1 at 299 K. By testing the temperature at different posi-tions of the optical film, a distributed temperature monitoring with a high spatial resolution down to 10 μm on the chip surface is successfully achieved. It is worth mentioning that the film maintains stable performance even under pull stretch up to 100%. The correctness of the method is verified by taking infrared images of the chip surface with an infrared camera. These results demonstrate that the as-prepared optical film is a promising anti-deformation material for high spatial resolution temperature monitoring on-chip surfaces.

We propose a chemical language processing model to predict polymers’ glass transition temperature (Tg) through a polymer language (SMILES, Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System) embedding and recurrent neural network. This model only receives the SMILES strings of polymer’s repeat units as inputs and considers the SMILES strings as sequential data at the character level. Using this method, there is no need to calculate any additional molecular descriptors or fingerprints of polymers, and thereby, being very computationally efficient and simple. More importantly, it avoids the difficulties to generate molecular descriptors for repeat units containing polymerization point `*’. Results show that the trained model demonstrates reasonable prediction accuracy on unseen polymer’s Tg. Besides, this model is further applied for high-throughput screening on an unlabeled polymer database to identify high-temperature polymers that are desired for applications in extreme environments. Our work demonstrates that the SMILES strings of polymer’s repeat units can be used as an effective feature representation to develop a chemical language processing model for predictions of Tg. The framework of this model is general and can be used to construct structure-property relationships for other polymer’s properties.

This communication reports an improvement of the quality of the electrical data obtained from the application of electrical resistivity tomography method on archaeological studies. The electrical contact between ground and electrode enhances significantly by using carbomer-based gel during the electrical resistivity tomography measurements. Not only does the gel promote the conservation of the building surface under investigation, but it also virtually eliminates the necessity of conventional spike electrodes, which in many archaeological studies are inadequate or not permitted. Results evidenced an enhancement in the quality of the electrical data obtained in the order of thousands of units compared with those without using the carbomer-based gel. The potential and capabilities of this affordable gel make it appropriate to be applied to other geoelectrical studies beyond archaeological investigations. Moreover, it might solve corrosion issues on conventional spike electrodes, and electrical multicore cables usually provoked for added saltwater attempting to improve the electrical contact.

One-dimensional shape memory polymer fibers (SMPFs) have obvious advantages in mechanical properties, dispersion properties and weavability. In this work, a method for fabricating semi-crystallization ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) fiber with two-way shape memory effect by melt spinning and ultraviolet (UV) curing was developed. Here, the effect of crosslink density on its performance was systematically analyzed by gel fraction measurement, tensile tests, DSC and TMA analysis. The results showed that the crosslink density and shape memory properties of EVA fiber could be facilely adjusted by controlling UV curing time. The resulting EVA fiber with cylindrical structure had a diameter of 247.13 ± 10.07 μm, and its mechanical strength and elongation at break were 64.46 MPa and 114.33%, respectively. The critical impact of the crosslink density and applied constant stress on the two-way shape memory effect were analyzed. Moreover, the single EVA fiber could lift more than 143 times its own weight and achieve 9% reversible actuation strain. The reversible actuation capability was significantly enhanced by a simple winding design of the single EVA fiber, which provided great potential applications in smart textiles, flexible actuators and artificial muscles.

We prepared poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-coated sulfonated polystyrene copolymer particles as efficient heat-shielding agents, which showed strong near-infrared (NIR) absorption, with high solid contents and good solution stability. The poly(styrene sulfonate -co-styrene) (P(SS-co-St)) copolymers were successfully synthesized via radical solution polymerization, and PEDOT-coated P(SS-co-St) (PEDOT:P(SS-co-St)) was synthesized via Fe⁺-catalyzed oxidative polymerization. PEDOT:P(SS-co-St) was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies. The particle size and morphology of PEDOT:P(SS-co-St) were examined using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential measurements. The maximum NIR-shielding efficiency of the film was 92.0% with 40% transmittance. The high solution stability of PEDOT:P(SS-co-St) make it an ideal candidate for heat-insulating materials that find application in semi-transparent heat-insulator-coated windows.

This report describes the collection of a large dataset (6930 measurement) on dimensional error in the fused deposition modeling (FDM) additive manufacturing process for full-density parts. Three different print orientations were studied, as well as seven raster angles (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) for the rectilinear infill pattern. All measurements were replicated ten times on ten different samples to ensure a comprehensive dataset. Eleven polymer materials were considered: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), high-temperature PLA, wood-composite PLA, carbon-fiber-composite PLA, copper-composite PLA, aluminum-composite PLA, high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyethylene terephthalate glycol-enhanced (PETG), polycarbonate, and synthetic polyamide (nylon). The samples were ASTM-standard impact testing samples, since this geometry allows the measurement of error on three different scales; the nominal dimensions were 3.25mm thick, 63.5mm long, and 12.7mm wide. This dataset is intended to give engineers and product designers a benchmark for judging the accuracy and repeatability of the FDM process for use in manufacturing of end-user products.

PHA synthases (PhaC) are grouped into four classes based on the kinetics and mechanisms of reaction. The grouping of PhaC enzymes into four classes is dependent on substrate specificity, according to the preference in forming short chain length (scl) or medium chain length (mcl) polymers: class I, class III, and class IV produce scl-PHAs depending on propionate, butyrate, valerate and hexanoate precursors, while class II phaC synthesize mcl-PHAs based on the alkane (C6 to C14) precursors. PHA synthases of class I, in particular PhaC_Cs from Chromobacterium USM2 and PhaC_Cn/RePhaC1 from Cupriavidus necator/R. eutropha, have been analysed and the crystal structures of the C-domains have been determined. PhaC_Cn/RePhaC1 was also studied by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis. Models have been proposed for dimerization, catalysis mechanism, substrate recognition and affinity, product formation and product egress route. The assays based on amino acid substitution by mutagenesis have been useful to validate the hypothesis on the role of amino acids in catalysis and in accommodation of bulky substrates, for the synthesis of PHB co-polymers and medium chain length-PHA polymers with optimized chemical properties.

All-polyamide composite coated fabric (APCCF) materials were developed and used as the material of construction of textile bioreactors as a replacement of traditional costly steel-/concreate-based bioreactors. Then, APCCF-bioreactor was used to cultivate filamentous fungus Neurospora intermedia to produce ethanol and fungal biomass. The results showed similar performance of the fungus cultivated in stain-less steel bioreactors. Techno-economical analysis for a 5000-m³ APCCF bioreactor for fermentation facility would lead to a reduction of the annual production cost of the facility by $128,000,000 compared to similar stainless-steel processes. The comparative analyses (including mechanical and morphological analyses, density measurements and techno-economical analysis) revealed that the APCCF is a better candidate for material of construction of the textile bioreactor. The APCCF is a 100% recyclable single polymer composite which was prepared from textile production line waste.

Currently, the textile industry is among the most rapidly expanding areas of the economy and is an important source of water pollution. There are many efficient chemical and physical methods for treating textile effluent, but they produce secondary pollutants. Therefore, there is a need to manage the textile waste wastewater. The potential EPS-producing and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria Lysinibacillus capsici PB300 (T) bacteria strain has been isolated from the bark borer-affected Peltophorum pterocarpum plant and has been determined to be effective in > 95 decolorizing Reactive Red 120, and other azo dyes such as AB11385%, orange II 94.62%, Congo red 94.62%, phenol red 94.54%, and mixtures of azo dyes 81.66%. Physico-chemical factors were optimized manually, including Taguchi design. EPS production, PGPR strain, and fabric discoloration of L. capsici were qualitatively studied. The FTIR, GC-MS, and UV absorbance studies also confirmed that the dye had been broken into its amines. Research findings using enzyme assays have shown that the bacteria Lysinibacillus capsici PB300 (T) can utilize laccase and manganese peroxidase and are capable of degrading dyes significantly. According to this work, immobilised L. capsici cells and the studied four bacterial consortiums, Lysinibacillus capsici PB300 (T), Alcaligenes faecalis subsp. Phenolicus DSM 16503 (T), Acinetobacterbaumanni ATCC 19606 (T), and Pseudomonasaeruginosa JCM 5962 may be employed to degrade RR120 effectively, and it is concluded that L. capsici PB300 (T) bacteria is significantly efficient in textile effluent treatment.

Supramolecular structures with specific applications are a pillar in several areas of science. Thus, from a contemporary point of view, there are several reasons to feel inclined to cover a systematic, or historic critique of the supramolecular concept itself. First, the idea of a supramolecular material seems more secure now than it was decades ago. Second, updating the interacting of MOFs and supramolecular chemical and conversely, supramolecularity to assemble MOFs and to make ef-ficient complex systems in multiple cutting-edge applications. Third, we should here simply confine to a consideration of how workers in this field have tried to correlate the notion of the idea of supramolecular systems linking self-assembly considerations. Thereby, this is clearly an ad-vantage that optimized geometries obtained on the conductive bases described that undoubtedly, some of these systems have substantial applications and create a significant practical interest. The outline of this review encompasses a general introduction to MOFs and supramolecularity, the key unit of the study presented here, followed by a survey of recent advances in supramolecular chemistry in confined space, relationships of MOFs with the supramolecular chemistry, electro-chemical synthesis of MOFs, and switchable MOFs. Finally, some discussion on possible future perspectives of this field is given.

Bicyclic peptides have attracted the interest of pharmaceutical companies because of their remarkable properties putting them on a new path in medicine. Their conformational rigidity that improves proteolytic stability, leads to rapid penetration into tissues via any possible route of administration and elimination, occurring by renal metabolism, is of great importance for people with a history of liver diseases. In addition, each ring can function independently, making them extremely versatile molecules for further optimization. In this paper we compared the potentiometric and spectroscopic properties studied by UV-Vis, MCD, and EPR, of four synthetic analogues of the bi-cyclic peptide c(PKKHP-c(CFWKTC)-PKKH). In particular we correlated the structural and spectral properties of complexes with coordinating abilities toward Cu(II) ions of MCL (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2) that contains the unbinding cycle and N- and C-terminal linear parts, with two histidine residues, one per part; two monocyclic ligands containing one histidine residue, both in the N-terminal position i.e., MCL2 (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKS-NH2) and in the C-terminal position i.e., MCL3 (Ac-PKKSPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2), respectively, and the linear structure LNL (Ac-PKKHPSFWKTSPKKH-NH2).

Among the various types of gas sensors, the chemoresistive gas sensors based on metal oxides are considered the most attractive ones due to their simple operation, low costs and miniaturization. Thin films of V2O5 undoped and doped with TiO2 were studied as nitrogen dioxide, methane and hydrogen sensors. The experimental kinetics of the electrical conductivity changes due to introduction and removal of gas on metal oxide gas sensors were successfully explained in terms of the Langmuir adsorption theory.

Biopolymers are of growing interest, but to improve some of their poor properties and performance, it is required the formulation of bio-based blends and/or adding of nanoparticles. For this purpose, in this work, two different metal oxides, such as zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2), at different concentrations (0.5, 1 and 2 %wt.) have been added in polylactic acid (PLA) and polylactic acid/polyamide 11 (PLA/PA11) blends to establish their effects on solid-state properties, morphology, melt behaviour, and photo-oxidation resistance. It seems that the addition of ZnO in PLA leads to a significant reduction of its rigidity probably due to an inefficient dispersion in the melt state, while the addition of TiO2 does not penalise PLA rigidity. Interestingly, the addition of both ZnO and TiO2 in PLA/PA11 blend has a positive effect on the rigidity because of blend morphology refinement and leads to a slight increase in film hydrophobicity. The photo-oxidation resistance of neat PLA and PLA/PA11 blend is significantly reduced due to the presence of both metal oxides, and this must be considered when designing the potential applications. The last results suggest that both metal oxides could be considered as photo-sensitive degradant agents for biopolymer and biopolymer blends.

Present research focus on the effect of different processing routes on physical and mechanical properties of nano Ti(CN) based cermet’s with metallic binders. Tungsten carbide (WC) is added as secondary carbide and Ni-Co are added as metallic binders in nano Ti(CN) based cermet processed via Conventional and Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). Systematic comparison of composition and sintering conditions for different cermet’s’ systems is done to design the novel composition and sintering conditions. Nano TiCN powder was prepared by 30hr of ball milling. Highest density of >98.5% percent was achieved for SPS processed cermet’s sintered at 1200°C and 1250°C for 3 min. at 60 MPa pressure in comparison to conventionally sintered cermet’s at 1400°C for 1hr with two stage compaction process, uniaxially at 150 MPa and isostatically at 300 MPa pressure respectively. Comparison of XRD analysis of milled powders of different time intervals was done to understand the characteristics of the as received and milled powders. Peak broadening was observed after 5 hr. of ball milling, and it increased till 30hr. Also, peak broadening and refined carbide size was observed in XRD and SEM micrograph of SPS processed cermet. TEM analysis of milled powder showed internal structure having regular periodic arrangement of planes. SEM (BSE) images of all cermets primarily showed three major microstructural phases of core-rim-binder with black, grey and white contrast respectively. In the present sintering conditions high hardness of ~16 GPa and fracture toughness of ~9 MPa m1/2 was obtained for SPS processed cermets sintered at higher temperature.

Biofilm serves as the residence for bacteria, wherein bacteria attach to surfaces and produce extracellular polymeric substances, including proteins, polysaccharides, and extracellular DNA. In recent years, biofilm reactors have gained increasing significance, playing a crucial role, for instance, in immobilizing heavy metals from waterways. This paper employs a bibliographic study to analyze the most important keywords and organizations in the field of biofilm reactors, identifying recent significant papers. Additionally, the paper discusses the opportunities for the future development of biofilm reactors. Through this study, a better understanding of key factors in biofilm reactor research is achieved, providing valuable guidance for future studies and applications in this field.

Metal halide perovskites have shown excellent optoelectronic properties, including high photoluminescence quantum yield, tunable emission wavelength, narrow full-width at half-maximum and low-cost solution-processed fabrication, which make it exhibit great potential as the emission layer materials of light emitting diodes. With the joint efforts of researchers from different disciplines, there has been a significant progress in the improvement of external quantum efficiency (EQE) and stability of perovskite light emitting diodes (PeLEDs) in recent few years, especially in green PeLEDs with EQE over 30%. In this review, we firstly introduce the basic device structure of PeLEDs, as well as the factors influencing EQE and stability of PeLEDs. Secondly, the development of lead-based and lead-free PeLEDs are summarized systematically. Thirdly, challenges of PeLEDs are discussed in detail, including low EQE of blue PeLEDs, poor device stability and EQE roll-off. Finally, some suggestions and perspectives of the future research directions for PeLEDs are proposed.

The CMT (Cold Metal Transfer) arc welding process is a convenient instrument for the assembly of thin sheets [1], [2]. More particularly, it permits the decrease of the amount of heat transferred to the parts to-be assembled, thus reducing their subsequent deformations. The present work aims at simulating the CMT welding of thin stainless-steel sheets in order to develop an approach that allows the prediction of temperature fields, as well as final deformations induced by the welding process. For that purpose, instrumented tests and numerical simulations were set aiming at comparing the experiments with simulations. Butt-welding of stainless-steel sheets was considered, with a thickness ranging from 1 to 1.2 mm. The weld seam samples were observed in order to set an equivalent heat source for each configuration. Moreover, the electric current and voltage were surveyed, and temperature measurements were performed using K-type thermocouples. In addition, displacement measurements were obtained using the DIC (Digital Image Correlation) technique. Thermomechanical simulations were then carried out using an equivalent heat source approach, considering the phase changes of elements, i.e. the transitions from solid to liquid and from liquid to solid. These simulations also consider the actual geometry of seams induced by addition of a filler material.

The results of a study of the processes of formation of macro- and micro-inhomogeneity of ingots and rolled sheets are presented. To study the nature and sources of surface defects in rolled sheets, a comparative method of structural-concentration analysis of metal at the end-to-end metallurgical process of ingot - slab - sheet metal has been developed, based on the metallographic method of studying the structure and qualitative analysis of non-metallic inclusions. The research results showed that the quality of the surface of rolled sheets is determined mainly by the physical heterogeneity of the crust zone of the ingots, and the internal defects of thin rolled sheets largely depend on the contamination of the metal with non-metallic inclusions and off-axis segregation. A mechanism for transforming defects in the casting cortical zone into surface and internal defects in rolled sheets is proposed.

The increading emission of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere has urged the scientific community to investigate alternatives to alleviate such emissions being the principal contributor to the greenhouse gas effect. One major alternative is carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) towards the production of value-added chemicals using diverse technologies. This work aims at the study of the catalytic potential of different cobalt-derived nanoparticels for methanol syntheis from carbon dioxide hydrogenation. Thanks to its abundance and cost-efficacy, cobalt can serve as an economical catalyst compared to noble-metal-based catalysts. In this work, we present a systematic comparison among different cobalt and cobalt oxide nanocomposites in terms of their efficiency as catalysts for carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol as well as how different supports can enhance their catalytic capacity. The oxygen vacancies in the cerium oxide act as carbon dioxide adsorption and activation sites, which facilitates a higher methanol production yield.

(1) Background: The synthesis of core-shell magnetic mesoporous nanoparticles (MMSN) from phase transfer process is usually performed at 100-250 mg scale. At the gram scale, nanoparticles without core or with multicore systems are observed. (2) Methods: Iron oxide core nanoparticles (IO) were synthesized through thermal decomposition procedure of -FeO in oleic acid. Phase transfer from chloroform to water was then performed in order to wrap IO with mesoporous silica shell through the sol-gel procedure. MMSN were then functionalized with DTPA, and used for the separation of metal ions. Their toxicity was evaluated (3) Results: The phase transfer pro-cedure was crucial to obtained MMSN at large scale. Three synthesis parameters were rigorously controlled: temperature, time and glassware. Homogeneous dispersion of MMSN at the gram scale was successfully obtained. After functionalization with DTPA, the MMSN-DTPA were shown to have a strong affinity for Ni ions. Furthermore toxicity was evaluated in cells, zebrafish and through seahorse metabolic assays, and the nanoparticles were found nontoxic. (4) Conclusions: We developed a method of preparation of MMSN at the gram scale. After function-alization with DTPA, the nanoparticles were efficient in metal ion removal and separation, fur-thermore, no toxicity was noticed up to 125 µg.mL-1 in zebrafish.

It is important to develop new antibacterial drugs since the emergence of bacterial resistance to available antibiotics. Metal nanoparticles have the potential to combat antibiotic resistance and are effective antibacterial agents. Here, we demonstrate the biogenic production of zinc nanoparticles using Rhododendron arboreum stem bark. The biosynthesized ZnNPs were characterized through different analytical techniques such as UV-vis, FTIR, EDX, SEM, and XRD. Clinical isolates such as E. coli, S. aureus, and K. pneumonia were used to check the antibacterial efficacy of the biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles. The MIC and MBC values against K. pneumonia, S. aureu, and E. coli were found to be 34±0.21 and 11.71±0.47, 47±0.11 and 23.86±0.84 and 94±0.18 and 40.43±0.16 µg/mL, respectively. It dramatically decreased the integrity of the cell membrane and markedly increased the permeability of both inner and outer membranes. The green synthesized ZnNPs have good catalytic activity. It degraded 65% of methyl orange dye within 6h when the mixture was kept in direct sunlight, thus demonstrating good photodegradation potential and can be employed as a good photocatalyst. According to these results, biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles could be a potential therapy option for controlling bacterial pathogenesis and an effective photocatalyst for the elimination of hazardous water contaminants.

Metal-organic framework (MOF) is a porous hybrid material of metal ions connected by organic bridging ligands. The coordination bonds link the metal ions, metal-ion clusters, and organic ligands to create the MOFs, and the materials are a distinctive class of crystalline frameworks. These porous materials possess relatively large surface area, tunable pore sizes, various functionalities, and high thermal stability. Therefore, diverse area of research including electrochemical sensor development utilizes distinctive and engineered MOFs materials. The review critically analyzes the strategy adopted for synthesizing a variety of MOFs materials. The role of these engineered materials in the fabrication of a miniaturized device demonstrates the detection of various emerging water contaminants in an aqueous medium. The studies demonstrated an understanding of the insights of sensor and device development. Moreover, the challenges encountered utilizing the MOFs in the electrochemical sensor development are precisely included, along with future perspectives of these studies.

Ionic gel electrolyte retains the characteristics of non-volatilization, non-flammability and outstanding electrochemical stability of ionic liquid, and shows good electrochemical performance combined with the excellent characteristics of different matrix materials, which is considered to be the best choice to achieve the high energy density and safety at the same time. In this paper, a flexible and self-healing ionic gel electrolyte is prepared by solvent-assisted method based on a zteric ion (ZI) copolymer. Abundant hydrogen bonds and synergistic interaction of ions in the electrolyte system endowed it with wonderful self-healing ability. The ionic conductivity of 9.06×10-4 S cm-1 at room temperature was achieved. Besides, the tLi+ was also increased to 0.312. The self-healing function of the ionic gel electrolyte ensured the long-term tolerance of the SHIGE. The capacity retention rate of the Li//LiFePO4 battery is 96% after 155 cycles at 0.1 C at 60 oC. This polymer electrolyte is expected to solve the problem of increasing polarization，which is caused by the low lithium ions migration number in ionic liquid electrolyte. And ultimately, it gives rise to a good rate performance.

In response to the growing demand for high-strength and high-toughness materials in industries like aerospace and automobiles, there is a need for metal matrix composites (MMCs) that can simultaneously enhance strength and toughness. This paper focuses on the design configurations of MMCs, which include both the configurations resulting from reinforcements and the inherent heterogeneity of the matrix itself. The mechanical properties of MMCs are influenced by factors such as reinforcement content, shape, size, and spatial distribution within the composite architecture. Among them, Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) are particularly significant in aerospace, electronics, and electric vehicles due to their potential for weight reduction and enhanced performance. However, the challenge lies in the inverse relationship between strength and toughness, hindering the widespread utilization and large-scale development of MMCs. The design configuration of composites plays a critical role in achieving concurrent improvements in strength and toughness. This review explores the advantages of toughness, toughening mechanisms, reinforcement distribution characteristics, and structural parameters in the design of composite architectures. Drawing inspiration from biological composites like bone, the development of synthetic composites with homogeneous structural designs provides insights into attaining exceptional strength and toughness in lightweight engineering structures. Additionally, understanding fracture behavior and toughening mechanisms in heterogeneous nanostructures is vital for advancing the field of metal matrix composites. Summarily, the design of composite architectures holds tremendous potential for tailoring AMCs with outstanding strength and toughness, addressing the requirements of lightweight engineering structures in various industries.

Evidence of the efficacy and safety of colorectal stent placement for palliation remains insufficient. This single-arm, prospective, multicenter study with WallFlex enteral colonic stent included 200 consecutive patients with malignant large bowl obstruction in the palliation cohort. The technical and clinical success, as well as stent patency and complications as short-term (≤ 7 days) and long-term (&gt; 7days) outcomes, of high axial force self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement was evaluated. The technical and clinical success rates were 98.5% and 94.5%, respectively. Non recurrent colorectal obstruction at 1 year was 63.9%, and 71.2% of the patients remained free of recurrent colorectal obstruction until death or the last follow-up. Fifty-six patients (28.0 %) received chemotherapy and five patients were administered bevacizumab after stent placement. The overall complication rate was 47%, including four (2.0%) early-onset and ten (5.0%) late-onset perforations, mostly due to stent-edge injury. Only the use of a long SEMS was a risk factor for perforation. In conclusion, endoscopic colorectal stenting using high axial force SEMS is an effective and safe procedure for palliation in patients with malignant colorectal obstruction. However, care should be taken to avoid perforation at the stent edge when using a long SEMS.

To study the influence of electrothermal effect of ESD protection device on the reliability of inte-grated circuit,a theoretical model of ESD protection device thermal resistance is constructed in the paper based on the Conservation of Energy Principle. By analyzing the temperature relativity between electricity parameter and thermology parameter of ESD protection device characterized by self-heating thermal resistance, the quantitative relationship expression of physical parameter and geometric parameter is obtained, which can be used to improve ESD protection device elec-tro-thermal effect. The simulation testing and the real tape-out testing of ESD protection device self-heating thermal resistance based on ggNMOS are shown and compared. It is concluded that self-heating thermal resistance is an effective index for the protection device electrothermal char-acterization. Based on the established model, the self-heating thermal resistance could be decreased to improve the homogeneity of the heat transference. The uneven distribution of device temperature can be reduced, and the overall reliability of chips can be improved.

The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to bind to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor with much higher affinity compared to other coronaviruses. The binding interface between the ACE2 receptor plays a critical role in the entry mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus. There are specific amino acids involved in the interaction between S protein and ACE2 receptor. This specificity is critical for the virus to establish a systemic infection and cause COVID-19 disease. In the ACE2 receptor, the largest number of amino acids that play a crucial role in the mechanism of interaction and recognition with the S protein are located in the C-terminal part which represents the main binding region between ACE2 and S. This fragment is abundant in coordination residues such as aspartates, glutamates and histidine that could be targeted by metal ions. Zn²⁺ ion binds to the ACE2 receptor in its catalytic site and modulates its activity, but it could also contribute to the structural stability of the entire protein. The ability of the human ACE2 receptor to coordinate metal ions, such Zn²⁺, in the same region where it binds to the S protein could have a crucial impact in the mechanism of recognition and interaction of ACE2-S with consequences on their binding affinity that deserve to be investigated. To test this possibility, this study aims to characterize the coordination ability of Zn²⁺, and also Cu²⁺ for comparison, with selected peptide models of the ACE2 binding interface using spectroscopic and potentiometric techniques.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) is an alternative to surgery for acute cholecystitis (AC) in poor operative candidates. However, the role of EUS-GBD in non-cholecystitis (NC) indications has not been well studied. We compared clinical outcomes of EUS-GBD for AC and NC indications. Consecutive patients undergoing EUS-GBD for all indications at a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Fifty-one patients underwent EUS-GBD during the study period. Thirty-nine (76%) patients had AC while 12 (24%) had NC indications. NC indications included malignant biliary obstruction (n = 8), symptomatic cholelithiasis (n = 1), gallstone pancreatitis (n = 1), choledocholithiasis (n = 1), and Mirizzi’s syndrome (n = 1). Technical success was noted in 92% (36/39) for AC and 92% (11/12) for NC (p &gt; 0.99). Clinical success rate was 94% and 100%, respectively (p &gt; 0.99). There were 4 adverse events in the AC group and 3 in the NC group (p = 0.62). Procedure duration (median 43 vs 45 minutes, p = 0.37), post-procedure length of stay (median 3 vs 3 days, p = 0.97), and total gallbladder related procedures (median 2 vs 2, p = 0.59) were similar. EUS-GBD for NC indications is similarly safe and effective as EUS-GBD in AC.

Two solvated rhenium(IV) complexes with formula [ReCl4(bpym)]·MeCN (1) and [ReCl4(bpym)]·CH3COOH·H2O (2) [bpym = 2,2'-bipyrimidine] have been prepared and characterized by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR), scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM–EDX), single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) and SQUID magnetometer. 1 and 2 crystallize in the monoclinic system with space groups P21/n and P21/c, respectively. In both compounds, the Re(IV) ion is six-coordinate and bound to four chloride ions and two nitrogen atoms of a 2,2’-bipyrimidine molecule forming a distorted octahedral geometry around the metal ion. In the crystal packing of 1 and 2, intermolecular halogen⋯halogen and π⋯halogen type interactions are present. Hydrogen bonds take place only in the crystal structure of 2. Both compounds exhibit an akin crystal framework based on halogen bonds. Variable-temperature dc magnetic susceptibility measurements performed on microcrystalline samples of 1 and 2 show a similar magnetic behavior for both compounds, with antiferromagnetic exchange between the Re(IV) ions connected mainly through intermolecular Re-Cl···Cl-Re interactions.

We have detected a large Nernst effect in the CDW state of the multiband organic metal α−(BEDT−TT)2KHg(SCN)4. We find that there exists a significant gradient of charge relaxation processes that can generate a sizeable contribution adding especially to the transverse thermoelectric signal. Apart from the phonon drag, the energy relaxation processes governing the electron-phonon interactions and the momentum relaxation processes governing the charge mobility of the q1D group of carriers have a significant role in observing the large Nernst signal in the CDW state. The emphasised momentum relaxation dynamics in the low field CDW state is a clear indicator of a significant carrier mobility that can lead to the largest Nernst signal in this state. The momentum relaxation is reduced with increasing angle and magnetic field, i.e., in the high field CDW state which is reflected in the smaller Nernst effect amplitude. In this case only the phonon drag and electron-phonon interactions are contributing to the transverse thermoelectric signal. Our findings advance and change the previous observations on the complex properties of this organic metal.

Mechanochemical production of copper (II) isonicotinate Metal-Organic Framework ([Cu (INA)2]-MOF) and its modified magnetic iron composite ([Cu (INA)2]-MOF@Fe3O4]) allowed for the adsorptive removal of Terbutaline from water. A variety of characterization techniques, including Fourier, transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used to elucidate the distinct chemical and morphological features of the two advanced materials. The optimal adsorption conditions were determined by investigating a wide range of adsorption-related variables, including contact time, initial Terbutaline concentration, adsorbent dosages pH, and temperature. The chemistry involved in the adsorption process between the adsorbents and the adsorbate molecules was evaluated using the best-fitting models, such as kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics, and the regeneration study was performed to evaluate the adsorbents' reusability. Incredibly maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) of 1667 and 2500 mg L-1 were attained within 40 minutes under alkaline pH 11 by the [Cu (INA)2]-MOF and the [Cu (INA)2]-MOF@Fe3O4, respectively. The adsorbents have been proven to be good for the adsorption of Terbutaline as a priority pollutant in an aqueous solution, with pseudo-first order and Langmuir as the best-fitting models for the kinetic and isotherm models respectively.

How to effectively suppress thermal cracks in the metal laser additive manufacturing process is still one of the key issues to be solved in the field of laser additive manufacturing. Metal tin, with wide liquid phase working temperature range, high boiling point, low viscosity, high thermal conductivity and excellent electrical conductivity. The use of tin as an auxiliary thermal management material in the metal additive manufacturing process is expected to achieve effective regulation of the temperature field and stress field of the formed part, thereby inhibiting the initiation of cracks and obtaining formed parts with the target grain structure and high reliability. This paper presented a novel liquid metal-assisted laser additive manufacturing method (LMAAM). A numerical model for the laser additive manufacturing of tin-assisted titanium alloys was established. The differences of the flow field, temperature field and stress field of the formed parts with tin and without tin were compared and analyzed. The influence of the interaction position between the tin liquid level and the forming part on the temperature field and stress field of the forming part was deeply studied. The laser additive manufacturing experiment of tin-assisted titanium alloy was carried out, and the experimental results were basically consistent with the simulation results, which verified the validity of the model. LMAAM technology has proven to be an effective method for additive manufacturing of highly reliable formed parts.

All living organisms require some metal ions for their energy production as well as metabolic and biosynthetic processes. Within cells, metal ions are involved in the formation of adducts interact with metabolites and macromolecules (proteins and nucleic acids). The proteins that require binding to one or more metal ions to be able to carry out their physiological function are called metalloproteins. About one third of all protein structures in the Protein Data Bank involve metalloproteins. Over the past few years there has been a tremendous progress in the number of computational tools and techniques making use of 3D structural information to support the investigation of metalloproteins. This trend has been boosted also by the successful applications of neural networks and deep learning approaches in molecular and structural biology at large. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the development and availability of resources dealing with metalloproteins from a structure-based perspective. We start by addressing tools for the prediction of metal-binding sites (MBSs) using structural information on apo-proteins. Then, we provide an overview of methods for and lessons learned from the structural comparison of MBSs in a fold-independent manner. We then move to describing databases of metalloprotein/MBS structures. Finally, we summarize recent DL applications enhancing the functional interpretation of metalloprotein structures.

We report a prebiotically relevant solution to the N1-ribosylation of pyrimidine nucleobases, a well-known challenge in the RNA World hypothesis. It is found that the presence of metal cations and clay mineral enables the previously unachievable direct ribosylation of uracil, providing by far the highest yield. Spectroscopy and chromatography analyses confirmed the formation of ribosylated uracil. The method can also be extended to the ribosylation of 2-pyrimidinone. These findings are also compatible with the metal-doped-clay model developed by our lab for the unified route of the selection of ribose and subsequent syntheses of nucleotide and RNA.

The present study utilizes a metal inert gas welding (MIG) to make a dissimilar weld joint of different stainless steel grades AISI 304, 314, 316L, 420 and a standard structural steel S355MC to estimate the correlation of a microstructure and the mechanical properties. The microstructure of the base metals (BM), the heat affected zone (HAZ), the fusion zone (FZ) and the weld seam were analyzed using optical microscopy. Optical microscopy did not reveal any presence of weld defects such as porosity or cracks. The analysis of microstructure showed that both the austenitic and martensitic stainless steel weld structures contain some retained delta ferrite and coarse Me23C6 carbides in the HAZ, while the FZ exhibits delta ferrite and some retained austenite. The hardness profiles revealed difference between austenitic and martensitic steel welds that the later showed extremely high values in the HAZ (~500 HV/0.1) which causes fracture in this zone. The welds of all austenitic steel grades withstood tensile test, showing the average tensile strength of 472 MPa with fracture observed in the base metal zone. It made clear that the use of a filler rod 308LSI is suitable only for the austenitic stainless and structural steel dissimilar welds, and not appropriate for martensitic-structural steel welds. The achieved results revealed that the higher hardness of the martensitic phase in the HAZ of AISI 420 is closely related with the formation of untempered coarse martensitic structure and higher carbon content.

The screening and treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD) using Na₂FeO₄ has been explored. Elemental composition was performed using an ICP-OES for the raw and treated AMD. The AMD samples were collected from three different sampling sites (RTW1, RTW2 and RTW3) in Pretoria, South Africa with acidic pH ranging between 2.50 and 3.13. Total dissolved solids and Electrical Conductivity of AMD samples ranged between 960 and > 1000 mg. L^-1, 226 and 263 µS. cm^-1, respectively. The final pH of treated water samples increased up to ≥ 9.5 after treatment with Na₂FeO₄. Sodium ferrate showed dual functions by removing metals and raising the pH of the treated water. Concentrations of most trace elements were not complying with WHO and DWAF guideline standards in raw AMD while after treatment with Na₂FeO₄ the concentrations were below guidelines for domestic and irrigation purposes.

A series of polycaprolactones (PCLs) with molecular weights of 950–10,100 g mol−1 and Ð of 1.10–1.87 have been synthesized via one-pot, solvent-free ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of ε-caprolactone (CL) using a heterogeneous double metal cyanide (DMC) catalyst. Various initiators such as polypropylene glycol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, and sorbitol are employed to tune the number of hydroxyl end groups and properties of the resultant PCLs. Kinetic studies indicate that the DMC-catalyzed ROP of CL proceeds via a coordination mechanism. Branched PCLs copolymers are also synthesized via the DMC-catalyzed copolymerization of CL with glycidol. The α,ω-hydroxyl functionalized PCLs were successfully used as telechelic polymers to produce thermoplastic poly(ester-ester) and poly(ester-urethane) elastomers with well-balanced stress and strain properties.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevailing neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by memory dysfunction and the presence of hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid β (Aβ) aggregate in multiple brain regions, including the hippocampus and cortex. The exact etiology of AD has not yet been confirmed. However, epidemiological reports suggest that populations who were exposed to environmental hazards are more likely to develop AD than those who were not. Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring environmental risk factor abundant in the Earth’s crust and human exposure to As predominantly occurs through drinking water. Convincing evidence suggests that As causes neurotoxicity and impairs memory and cognition although the hypothesis and molecular mechanism of As-associated pathobiology in AD are not clear yet. However, exposure to As and its metabolites leads to various pathogenic events such as oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunctions, ER stress, apoptosis, impaired protein homeostasis, and abnormal calcium signaling. Evidence has indicated that As exposure induces alterations that coincide with most of the biochemical, pathological, and clinical developments of AD. Here, we overview existing literature to gain insights into the plausible mechanisms that underlie As-induced neurotoxicity and the subsequent neurological deficits in AD. Prospective strategies for the prevention and management of arsenic exposure and neurotoxicity have also been discussed.

Aiming the characterization of road dusts on the surrounding villages of an active mine and to assess metal(loids) bioaccessible fractions, a dust samples survey was undertaken. To achieve these objectives, pseudototal element concentration, mineralogical composition, Enrichment factor and in vitro extraction UBM assay for both gastric (G) and gastrointestinal (GI) phases, were determined. Results obtained revealed that arsenic represents the higher risk to humans, with mean pseudototal values higher than the maximum reference value range. Enrichment factor points to As significant to very high enrichment in all villages. Particles enriched in As, Ca, Fe, Cu, Al, Ti were identified by SEM-EDS in weathered agglomerates, linked to mine wastes and long-distance transport, both by wind and/or traffic. Arsenic bioaccessibility fraction (%BAF) presents low values in the studied samples, possibly due to low Fe complexes solubility with adsorbed As, limiting arsenic release and reducing its bioaccessibility. Concentrations of Cd bioaccessible G and GI phases are within the reference values range, while for Cu are above and for Pb are lower, than reference value range. Results show that the pseudototal fraction risk is overestimated when comparing to BAF (bioaccessible fraction), nevertheless, total G and GI risk are above the carcinogenic target risk (1.00E-06) in most samples. Carcinogenic risk of the bioaccessible contaminants shows that As is the element that represents higher risk for developing cancer over a lifetime, being ingestion the main risk route.

: Dacarbazine, DAC, 5-(3,3-dimethyltriazeno)imidazol-4-carboxamideis is an imidazole-carboxamide derivative, that is structurally related to purines. DAC belongs to the triazene compounds, which are a group of alkylating agents with antitumour and mutagenic properties. DAC is a non-cell cycle specific drug, active on all phases of cellular cycle. In the frame of this work the 3d-metal complexes (cobalt and copper) with dacarbazine were synthesized. Their spectroscopic properties by the use of FT-IR, FT-Raman and 1HNMR were studied. The structures of dacarbazine and its complexes with copper(II) and cobalt(II) were calculated using DFT methods. The effect of metals on the electronic charge distribution of dacarbazine was discussed on the basis of calculated NBO atomic charges. The reactivity of metal complexes in relation to ligand alone was estimated on the basis of calculated energy of HOMO and LUMO orbitals. The aromaticity of imidazole ring in dacarbazine and the complexes was compared (on the basis of calculated geometric indices of aromaticity). Thermal stability of the investigated 3d-metal complexes with dacarbazine and the products of their thermal decomposition were analyzed.

The paramagnetic gadolinium(III) ion is used as contrast agent in magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to improve the lesion detection and characterization. It generates a signal by changing the relaxivity of protons from associated water molecules and creates a clearer physical distinction between the molecule and the surrounding tissues. New gadolinium-based contrast agents displaying larger relaxivity values and specifically targeted might provide higher resolution and better functional images. We have synthesized the gadolinium(III) complex of formula [Gd(thy)2(H2O)6](ClO4)3·2H2O (1) [thy = 5-methyl-1H-pyrimidine-2,4-dione or thymine], which is the first reported compound based on gadolinium and thymine nucleobase. 1 has been characterized through vis-IR, SEM-EDAX and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques, and its magnetic and relaxometric properties have been investigated by means of SQUID magnetometer and MR imaging phantom studies, respectively. On the basis of its high relaxivity values, this gadolinium(III) complex can be considered a suitable candidate for contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.

Bacteria a Microscopic organisms are the most inexhaustible and flexible of microorganisms and constitute a huge division of the whole living earthly biomass, certain microorganisms were found to amass metallic components at a high limit Was Known as Bacterial Bio-sorption Due to their little size, capacity to become under controlled conditions, and their Accommodation to an extensive variety of ecological situations; Potent metal bio-sorbents among microorganisms, at low pH esteems, cell divider ligands are protonated and contend essentially with metals for official. With expanding pH, more ligands, such as amino and carboxyl groups, could be exposed, leading to attraction between these negative charges and the metals, and consequently increment bio-sorption onto the cell surface. Starting with Isolation and identification of heavy metal-resistant bacteria from rock Ore. Studying Factors Affecting Uranium Bio-sorption, Optimization of bacterial growth conditions and optimum for metal uptake by free and immobilized bacterial cells and Desorption ratio of uranium ions adsorbed by Coli. /alginate, All this evidence suggest that functions groups Represented in our study are responsible for metal uptake in our bacterial biomass beside change in peaks position which assigned for it's groups confirm bio-sorption of metal ions from waste due to ions charge interaction comparing with immobilized we found increase in no of binding sites indicate that immobilized bacterial have high efficiency for metal up take which also change in peaks position which assigned for its groups confirm bio-sorption of metal ions from waste due to ions charge interaction, Where the high bio-sorption yield obtained by bacteria, the Uranium & heavy metal bioremediation process expects microorganisms to be joined to a strong surface.

In this article, it is proposed to use aluminum breakage scraps to obtain Green Hydrogen through the aluminum-water reaction with caustic soda as a catalyst. From this exothermic reaction, both hydrogen and the heat generated can be used. Due to the low price of aluminum chips, this allows us to produce Green hydrogen below the current price that is obtained using renewable energy sources and electrolyzers. On the other hand, we have developed a process that is sustainable since it is obtained as alumina and caustic soda waste that can be reused. This alumina obtained, once filtered, has high purity which allows us to produce high-quality primary aluminum without the need to use bauxite and reducing the production of red sludge. A comparative study-analysis has been carried out of two of the types of forms in which the most common aluminum is presented in the industry to analyze which one performs better by studying key factors such as the hydrogen produced, and the waste generated during the process. Finally, the mathematical model has been defined to be able to control the flow based on different key parameters such as temperature, molarity, and geometry. Undoubtedly, the study that we present represents a milestone for the recovery of metallic aluminum waste and may be of great interest to industries that use aluminum in their processes, such as recuperators, but also the vehicle or aerospace industry.