Purpose Polylactic acid (PLA), as a widely sourced and environmentally friendly green and low-carbon material, has a life cycle that is friendly to the environment and possesses excellent characteristics such as good biodegradability, plasticity and excellent processing properties. It is regarded as the most promising and widely applicable perfect substitute for petroleum-based plastic materials. However, unmodified PLA materials have defects such as poor toughness, brittleness and lack of elasticity, which limit their commercial promotion. Therefore, modifying PLA materials has become a necessary means to expand their application scope. Design/methodology/approach In this work, PLA was selected as the base material, and PBAT was used as the toughening material to prepare a PLA composite material with excellent mechanical properties while maintaining the original degradation performance. At the same time, ADR 4370 was chosen as the chain extender, and the PBAT/PLA composite material was prepared by melt blending and hot pressing. Further improvements were made to the comprehensive performance of the PLA composite material. Findings The PBAT/PLA/ADR composite material exhibited excellent mechanical properties and thermal stability. This study was conducive to promoting the wide application of PBAT and alleviating the serious problem of plastic pollution. Originality/value By using the chain extender ADR 4370, the compatibility between PBAT and PLA was improved, and the comprehensive performance of the PBAT/PLA composite material was enhanced. As a result, a new type of biodegradable PBAT/PLA composite material was prepared.
Purpose The increasing demand for sustainable dyeing auxiliaries has led to the development of bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived agents. This study aims to thoroughly evaluate these newly synthesized leveling and dispersing agents (DAs) by examining the dyeing of polyester fabrics with disperse dyes (C.I. Disperse Red 60 and C.I. Disperse Blue 56) at various DA types and concentrations.Design/methodology/approach In this work, the authors synthesized a series of bio-based cardanol formaldehyde sulfonate oligomers (CFSO) from renewable cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). Using four different sulfonating agents - sodium bisulfite, sodium dithionite, sodium hydroxymethanesulfinate and sodium formaldehyde bisulfite - followed by formaldehyde condensation, the authors created a range of materials with diverse molecular structures. Extensive characterization through FTIR, 1H NMR, GPC, PXRD and thermal analysis confirmed their stable, low-molecular-weight nature, showing their resilience in high-temperature dyeing processes. Application trials with C.I. Disperse Blue 56 and C.I. Disperse Red 60 on polyester fabrics demonstrated significant improvements in dye exhaustion and color uniformity with the CFSO samples. Compared to traditional dispersing and leveling agents, these bio-based oligomers more effectively reduced uneven dyeing, indicating a more controlled and efficient dyeing process.Findings When tested with C.I. Disperse Red 60, all CFSO series consistently surpassed both Setamol (R) WS and sodium naphthalene formaldehyde sulfonate (SNF) in dispersing efficiency. For C.I. Disperse Blue 56, only CFSO-SB exhibited superior performance relative to the two commercial dispersants.Originality/value Derived from renewable CNSL, the CFSO series provides a high-performance, biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based auxiliaries in polyester dyeing. Even at low concentrations, these bio-based agents achieve leveling effects comparable to industry standards, effectively supporting the goals of green chemistry in textile processing.
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that 1,3-divinyltetramethyldisiloxane (DVMS) and dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate (DFMA) are used to modify the p(BA-MMA-VAc-Veova10) latex. The heat resistance and water resistance of the resultant film latex have been improved. In addition, the mixture of allyl alkyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether monoester ammonium sulfonate (X-616), a reactive anionic surfactant and isomeric tridecyl polyoxyethylene(9) ether (1309) nonionic emulsifier is used as the emulsifier, which brings the new application of the above surfactants.Design/methodology/approach The p(BA-MMA-VAc-Veova10) latex has been successfully synthesized via the semicontinuous seeded emulsion polymerization, butyl acrylate (BA), methyl methacrylate (MMA), vinyl acetate (VAc), tertiary vinyl carbonate (VeoVa10) are the main monomers and reactive anionic surfactant of X-616 and the nonionic emulsifier of 1309 are used as the emulsifier. DVMS and DFMA are used as the modified monomers. Potassium persulfate is the initiator. The structure of the resultant film is characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The films of the resultant latexes are tested by the thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and contact angle (CA). The particle size of the latex is measured with the Zetatrac dynamic light scattering instrument.Findings A detailed investigation was conducted on the factors influencing the properties of the latex and film. The conditions for the best comprehensive performance of the latex and its resultant film are as follows: the amount of emulsifier is 5 wt%; the mass ratio of X-616 to 1309 is 1:1; the amount of initiator is 0.6 wt%; the amount of DVMS and DFMA is 4 and 2 wt%, respectively. The latex has good mechanical and chemical stability and ideal storage stability. The appearance of the resultant latex is translucent and blue with a small particle size. The water CA increased from 67.17 degrees to 98.63 degrees and the thermal decomposition temperature increased from 285.50 degrees to 292.17 degrees before and after fluorosilicon modification.Practical implications The resultant latex can be used in both the waterborne interior and exterior wall coatings and other fields, which can satisfy the high demand for thermal stability and hydrophobicity.Originality/value The modification of p(BA-MMA-VAc-Veova10) latex with the new emulsifiers and the fluorosilicone monomers has not been widely reported. In this study, the p(BA-MMA-VAc-Veova10) latex has been successfully synthesized via the semicontinuous seeded emulsion polymerization, BA, MMA, VAc and VeoVa10 are the main monomers, and X-616, which is a reactive anionic surfactant and 1309, which is a nonionic emulsifier, are used as the emulsifiers. DVMS and DFMA are used as the modified monomers.
Purpose This study aims to investigate the dyeing properties of Xijing viscose fabric and the effect of graphene-based background color on its dyeing results.Design/methodology/approach Reactive Red EC-3B, Reactive Yellow SE and Reactive Blue EC-GC were selected for the dyeing treatment of Xijing viscose fabric. The role of graphene in the dyeing process was clarified by comparing the color characteristic values, dye uptake rate, fixation rate and color fastness of white viscose fabric, Xijing viscose fabric and two types of simulated gray background fabrics.Findings The graphene-based background color affects different dyes' dyeing results differently, with a slight impact on Reactive Blue EC-GC and a notable one on Reactive Yellow SE. Benefiting from graphene's large specific surface area and p-p stacking effect, Xijing viscose fabric has improved dye adsorption. Its dye uptake rates for the three dyes are 92%, 89% and 95% and fixation rates 86%, 86% and 84% - ll higher than white viscose and simulated gray background fabrics. It also boasts excellent color fastness, with rubbing and soaping fastness at grade 4-5.Originality/value This study provides theoretical and experimental references for the optimization of the dyeing processes of Xijing textile materials.
Purpose This study aims to explore sustainable strategies for enhancing the stability of natural dyes through their encapsulation within inorganic matrices, with particular emphasis on structure–stability relationships governing degradation and performance. It addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic colorants in pigment-based industries such as textiles, packaging and cosmetics. Design/methodology/approach The paper systematically analyzes recent developments in the encapsulation of natural dyes using inorganic carriers such as mesoporous silica, metal oxides and hybrid nanostructures. A special focus is placed on practical physics-based characterization techniques, including UV–Vis spectroscopy, thermal analysis (TGA/DSC) and structural tools (FTIR/XRD), to assess photostability, thermal resistance and release behavior, with comparative evaluation of free versus encapsulated systems. Findings Encapsulation significantly improves the performance of natural dyes by protecting them against photodegradation, thermal decomposition and environmental leaching. Comparative studies reveal enhanced light–matter and heat–matter interaction control, leading to superior color durability and functional performance. Quantitative assessments further indicate measurable improvements in stability and reductions in ecotoxicological responses. The environmental profile of the encapsulated systems also shows reduced ecotoxicity in aqueous and soil media. Originality/value This work integrates materials science, applied physics and environmental chemistry to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on sustainable pigment design. It highlights how experimental physics techniques are critical for evaluating and optimizing dye–matrix interactions, providing a mechanism-oriented framework that links material structure to long-term stability and environmental performance, offering valuable insights for industrial and academic stakeholders seeking green pigment technologies.
Purpose This study aims to investigate for the first time the potential use of kombucha tea in textile applications as both a natural dye and an environmentally friendly biomordant. Design/methodology/approach This study used fabrics composed of 75% cotton and 25% polyester. These fabrics were pre-mordanted with kombucha tea at four different concentrations and with potassium aluminium sulphate, a traditional chemical. The samples were then dyed with madder root (Rubia tinctorum L.) and kombucha tea, and the colour characteristics (L*, a*, b*, K/S), rubbing and washing fastness, UV protection factors (UPF) and antioxidant (DPPH and TPC) activities of the resulting outputs were analysed using standard methods. Findings Kombucha tea imparts more vibrant and yellowish orange-yellow tones to fabrics compared to potassium aluminium sulphate; while improving colour yield and rubbing fastness, it also provides enhanced antioxidant activity and UV protection (UPF 23.45). Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate the potential of kombucha tea as a sustainable, multifunctional natural dye and biomordant in textile finishing processes, which has not been documented in the literature before.
Purpose Natural dyes and pigments make the market for the pharmaceutical, food and textile industries over various synthetic dyes due to their eco-friendly nature and impactful health benefits, as well as cosmeceutical importance. Since they are obtained from natural sources, they contribute to the upliftment of local biodiversity. Despite these advantages, natural pigments face various challenges in their colour fastness properties due to factors like photo-degradation, thermal degradation, microbial degradation, pH sensitivity, oxidation, harvesting or growing conditions and also the shortcomings of the ancient extraction methods. The purpose of this paper would be to evaluate the stability challenges of natural pigments and illustrate the various methods and approaches to improve their stability. Design/methodology/approach This review describes the natural sources of various dyes and pigments and the common stability issues and the factors causing them. Furthermore, the present work enlightens the techniques that stabilize the colour fastness properties and improve colour stability, including co-pigmentation, complex formation, microencapsulation, addition of bio-mordant and antioxidants. Each of these techniques has been evaluated by diverse groups of scientists and applied for stabilization of natural source-based colours. Findings Among the techniques applied, use of nanotechnology, bio-mordanting and co-pigmentation has been found to improve the stability of pigments significantly. Future studies on the application of such methods and the commercial production of pigments may be required. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this review work focusing on techniques to improve the stability of naturally sourced pigments has been presented for the first time. It compiles and compares all the novel techniques to improve the stability of natural pigments and thus is significantly beneficial for researchers in this field.
Purpose This research will produce and define high-performance carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy composites, as well as to improve the multifunctionality of the same by adding conductive nanofillers, namely, the multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene. This study aims to enhance the mechanical strength, interfacial bonding, conductivity and thermally activated shape memory performance to achieve high performance in structural and smart material applications. Design/methodology/approach The pure carbon fiber-epoxy laminates were produced as control samples and then the hybrid nano composition formulations were made by dispersing the MWCNTs and the graphene at an optimal loading of 0.4 Wt.% into the epoxy polymer through controlled mixing methods to achieve uniform dispersion. The tensile and flexural tests were used to determine the mechanical properties of stiffness and strength. The shape memory behavior was studied under thermal activation, measurement of recovery ratio and recovery time. To analyze the synergistic performance of the fiber reinforcement and nanofiller introduction into the composites, a comparative study was done. Findings Carbon fibers have a notable positive effect on loading capacity and rigidity of the epoxy matrix, whereas nanofillers helped to increase interfacial bonding, the effect of stress transfer and conductivity. Hybrid composites had better tensile and flexural characteristics than pure systems. Moreover, it showed a higher recovery ratio and lower recovery time, as well as faster thermal responsiveness and shape recovery behaviors when compared to the control group of nano-fillers that became conductive. The multifunctional performance improved significantly because of the combined reinforcement strategy. Originality/value This study offers a systematic study of hybrid carbon fiber-MWCNT-graphene epoxy composites that are able to optimize both structural and smart behavior. The proposed system has provided a promising aerospace, automotive and adaptive structural material platform that is not only highly mechanically robust, as is the case with conventional carbon fiber composites but also has the ability to combine the mechanical strength of a material with improved electrical and shape memory capabilities.
PurposeThe oceans play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate and supporting life, but ocean pollution is increasingly endangering marine ecosystems. The purpose of this study is to address the growing issue of microplastic contamination in oceans, particularly in the Indian Ocean, highlighting its sources, environmental and biological impacts and methods of identification and characterisation. This study also examines the influence of exclusive economic zones (EEZs) on this contamination. Design/methodology/approachThis paper comprehensively reviews current literature on microplastic sources and their impacts. It also incorporates experimental investigations that demonstrate polymer fragmentation and degradation in saltwater environments to provide practical insights into the behaviour of microplastics in marine settings. FindingsMicroplastic contamination is a severe issue with profound implications for marine life and ecosystems. This study identifies key sources of microplastics, such as waste mismanagement and industrial activities, and emphasises the significant contribution of EEZ activities to contamination in the Indian Ocean. Experiments presented in this article reveal important details about the degradation behaviour of polymers in saltwater conditions. Originality/valueThis paper provides a focused exploration of microplastic contamination in the Indian Ocean, an area often overlooked in global studies. By integrating experimental data with a review of the EEZ’s role, this study offers valuable insights into regional pollution dynamics and practical approaches to understanding microplastic behaviour in marine environments. Unlike most global reviews, this paper uniquely integrates experimental insights on the degradation behaviour of polyamides in saltwater with a policy-oriented discussion of the Indian Ocean’s EEZs. This dual focus on underexplored regional waters and polymer-specific degradation mechanisms makes this study distinctive and valuable for both environmental science and marine policy communities.
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to outline replacements for conventional Nafion membranes for fuel cells that are plagued by high cost, biofouling and pH induced degradation. It targets the conducting polymer polypyrrole (Ppy) function in developing non-fluorinated polymer electrolyte membranes (PEM) as an adequate and superior replacement. Design/methodology/approachThis is an integrative review. It critically evaluates and integrates existing scientific evidence on the use of polypyrrole (Ppy) in composite membranes for PEM fuel cells. The study is grounded on the method of how Ppy is used to modify and improve non-fluorinated base membranes’ characteristics. FindingsThe review finds composite membranes with polypyrrole (Ppy) to be very promising. It finds that Ppy enables proton transport channels to be formed at high temperature, enhances thermal and mechanical stability, provides corrosion protection to the bipolar plates and inhibits crossover of methanol. There are also serious limitations found, such as intrinsic low proton conductivity of Ppy, instability and complicated processing. Originality/valueOriginality in this review is the strict critical scrutiny of maximizing polypyrrole as a fuel cell material. It is greater than mere listing of benefits in that it transparently warrants future research requirements. This review stands out for the fact that it has a comprehensive list of ideas on how to improve, e.g. improving proton conductivity without compromising other characteristics, improving resistance to overoxidation and degradation, improving mechanical/thermal properties, making synthesis easy for scaling up and achieving regular morphology with controlled water uptake for engineering efficient membrane composites. The paper’s strength lies in its breadth and integrative approach – the review is not only surveys what has been done but also openly identifies challenges and future research opportunities.
PurposeThis study aims to address the urgent need for sustainable, functional materials derived from shellfish processing waste, focusing on chitosan – a versatile biopolymer with high potential across multiple industrial domains. Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive review of the literature from the past two decades, examining chitosan’s chemical structure, modification strategies and its wide-ranging applications in areas such as food, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, medicine, cosmetics, textiles, paper, environmental chemistry and cutting-edge fields like biomedicine and nanotechnology. FindingsChitosan’s inherent antimicrobial, antioxidant and biocompatible properties make it ideal for use in nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, therapeutic agents, active packaging, water treatment and bio-coatings. Its versatility allows integration into advanced applications (e.g. drug delivery, bio-imaging, freshness indicators), positioning it as a valuable resource for sustainable innovation. Practical implicationsThis review demonstrates chitosan’s capacity to transform industry by using shellfish waste to create eco-friendly, high-performance materials. It highlights the readiness of several technologies for commercialization while identifying areas – such as edible coatings and smart packaging – that require further development and industrial adoption. Originality/valueBy consolidating recent advances, this review spotlights chitosan and its derivatives as a sustainable frontier for material science and industrial applications, offering a valuable reference for researchers and practitioners seeking to bridge green chemistry with high-value industrial innovation.
Purpose The rising demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable dyes for textile coloring has led to a resurgence in the use of natural dyes. Nevertheless, optimizing the condition of natural dyes for application on cotton remains a challenge. This study aims to identify the effects of dyeing parameters on the properties of naturally dyed cotton. Design/methodology/approach For this purpose, a natural dye was extracted from prickly pear fruits using an aqueous method. The cotton fabric was cationized with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl-trimethyl ammonium chloride to facilitate the dyeing process without using any auxiliaries. The effects of the dye bath pH, dye concentration and dyeing temperature were established experimentally. Findings It was observed that color strength (K/S) values decrease with the increase in dyeing temperature. However, good colorfastness properties, ultraviolet protection factor and K/S were obtained at low dyeing temperatures. Originality/value This research presents a sustainable natural dyeing process using a cationizing agent, achieving good fastness and K/S properties without the need for auxiliaries and at low temperatures.
Purpose Owing to increasing environmental regulations and growing concerns about the harmful byproducts generated by the textile industry, it is essential to highlight the significance of adopting sustainable materials in dyeing and printing processes that involve commercial binders. Design/methodology/approach This study investigated the development of binders derived from renewable resources, named palm oil using as a sustainable option compared to commercial products. Four binders with varying palm oil mount of 50% (B1), 55% (B2), 60% (B3) and 65% (B4) w/w have been designed using two stages, alcoholysis and polyesterification reactions. These binders offer an economical printing solution that is compatible with both natural and synthetic fabrics, while enhancing the quality and performance of printed textiles. This approach aligns with the growing demand for sustainability in the textile industry and complies with relevant environmental regulations. Furthermore, the use of these produced binders can significantly improve the performance metrics of printed fabrics, thereby boosting customer satisfaction and enhancing market competitiveness. Alkyd resins with unique attributes and reactive characteristics are formulated and characterized solely from commercially accessible renewable resources. Findings The results indicated that using normal heating (NH) does not facilitate alcoholysis and polyestrification when a low quantity of oil is present, resulting in no formation of alkyd resin. In contrast, with a larger amount of oil, these processes were observed but required an extended time. Microwave irradiation (MW) enabled the reaction to complete within a few seconds, whereas conductive heating necessitated a longer duration, spanning several hours. The size of the synthesized binder particles varied with oil content, ranging from 8.26–7.31, 0.15–0.14, 0.05–0.04 and 0.40–0.20 for B1, B2, B3 and B4, respectively. While the nano size cannot be achieved when applying NH. In addition, prints created using microwave fixation demonstrated enhanced color strength, fastness characteristics and surface morphology compared to those made with traditional steaming fixation techniques. Research limitations/implications There are no research limitations for this work. Binder was synthesized from a renewable resource, namely, palm oil, by applying MW to save energy, water, chemicals and time. Practical implications This work has practical applications for textile coloration. It is concluded that using a different amount of palm oil by applying MW as an alternative heating source makes the process greener. Social implications Socially, the synthesized binder has a positive social impact on the ecosystem and global community as it does not contain any carcinogenic materials. Originality/value The work is original and contains value-added products for the textile printing and other confederate fields.
Purpose This study aims to clarify the relationship and establish a theoretical framework of covalent adaptive networks (CANs), which enable thermosetting epoxies to have excellent self-healing properties, facilitating their recyclability.Design/methodology/approach A scaling model was developed to describe CANs' viscoelastic behavior in thermosetting epoxies. A relaxation time function was built to characterize CAN chemical kinetics (linked to network reorganization-induced topological and viscoelastic transitions), an extended Maxwell model derived the self-healed CAN's stress-strain relationship, and model predictions were validated with experimental data.Findings The scaling model was successfully established and verified; it clarified how molecular chemical kinetics regulate CANs' self-healing performance. The model's applicability under complex conditions (e.g. extreme temperature, humidity) and to different types of thermosetting epoxies/CANs requires further exploration.Originality/value This paper provides a fundamental framework for optimizing CANs' molecular structure and viscoelastic properties, thereby enhancing thermosetting epoxies' self-healing efficiency and recyclability and promotes the development of recyclable polymer materials, aligning with green development and circular economy concepts, and reducing environmental pressure from polymer waste, which fills the research gap in relevant scaling models, offering new theoretical support for designing self-healing thermosetting epoxies.
Purpose This study aims to present the preparation of new paint formulations based on oil-based polymers, such as modified poly(ester-amide) (PEA) and alkyd resins, for steel protection.Design/methodology/approach New modified PEA and alkyd compositions were synthesized using a dicarboxylic acid source, following the authors' previous work. The resins were evaluated as binders in primer formulations. Coatings (105 +/- 5 & micro;m thickness) were brush-applied on mild steel panels and tested per international ASTM standards for physico-mechanical properties, chemical resistance and corrosion performance.Findings The tests revealed that when the modified PEA and alkyd resins were incorporated into primer formulations, corrosion resistance, physico-mechanical properties and chemical resistance were all enhanced.Originality/value Modified PEA and alkyd resins are cheaper and can be used to replace other, more expensive binders. The main advantage of these binders is that they combine the properties of both polyester and polyamide resins based on nitrogenous compounds.
Purpose This study aims to develop gamma radiation-curable coatings based on glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and styrene, with and without nanoclay reinforcement, and to evaluate their chemical, mechanical and corrosion resistance properties.Design/methodology/approach GMA/styrene copolymers were synthesized via gamma irradiation at varying doses (4-15 kGy for pre-curing and up to 80 kGy for final curing). Nanoclay was incorporated at different loadings to enhance coating performance. The resulting films were applied to wood and steel substrates and evaluated for chemical resistance (ASTM D5402, D4752), corrosion resistance (ASTM D1308), gloss (ASTM D523), adhesion (ASTM D3359) and scratch resistance (ASTM D5178).Findings Gamma irradiation significantly improved crosslinking, leading to enhanced mechanical strength, surface gloss and resistance to solvents and acids. Optimal performance was observed at doses between 40-50 kGy. Nanoclay reinforcement further enhanced barrier properties, adhesion and resistance to chemical and corrosive agents, especially in acidic environments.Originality/value This research introduces an environmentally friendly, solvent-free radiation curing approach for high-performance GMA/styrene coatings. The study demonstrates the synergistic effect of gamma irradiation and nanoclay incorporation, making the system suitable for protective coatings in industrial and wood surface applications.
Purpose This study aims to bridge the persistent lab-to-bulk reproducibility gap in polyester thread dyeing with disperse dyes by developing a systematic, closed-loop optimization approach. The research focuses on achieving right-first-time (RFT) dyeing results at the industrial scale, minimizing shade variation between laboratory and bulk production and reducing resource-intensive reprocessing cycles. The overarching goal is to enhance process accuracy, sustainability and production efficiency in synthetic fiber coloration, thereby addressing both technical and environmental challenges associated with scale-up operations in the sewing thread industry. Design/methodology/approach To achieve RFT production by aligning laboratory and bulk dyeing parameters, five experimental models were conducted. Models 1 and 2 aligned spectrophotometric recipes at lab and bulk scales, with Model 2 enhancing lab-bulk matching via bulk dyeing time adjustment (30-45 min). In Model 3, auxiliary chemical concentrations were adjusted to avoid dye migration and shade variation. In Model 4, the effect of liquor ratios (LRs) (1:20-1:50) was observed on yellow, navy and brown colors. Model 5 integrated all previous optimizations, finalizing optimal LRs (1:30 for yellow, 1:40 for navy and 1:50 for brown) and extending the study to different polyester thread counts (30/2, 50/2, 54/3 and 30/4). The dyeing performance of different experimental models was evaluated through CMC Delta E values (<1) and color fastness assessments for crocking, washing and bleaching. Findings The developed optimization protocol effectively minimized color variation between lab and bulk dyeing, demonstrating excellent shade reproducibility, by achieving CMC Delta E values below 1 across all tested polyester thread counts and a peak color strength of 101.54%. Fastness ratings for various tests remained at or above Grade 4, indicating strong color durability. The protocol lowered reprocessing frequency by 15%-20%, which translated to an 8%-12% reduction in production costs due to decreased dye consumption, energy use and machine time. This approach enhances RFT performance and offers a practical, cost-effective method that improves productivity and lessens the environmental impact of large-scale dyeing operations. Originality/value This research presents a closed-loop optimization framework for translating laboratory dyeing parameters to industrial processes, emphasizing sustainability. It utilizes data-driven parameter tuning to improve shade consistency and resource efficiency, offering a practical solution for the polyester thread dyeing industry to enhance performance, reduce waste and minimize environmental impact during scale-up, thereby contributing to sustainable practices in synthetic textile manufacturing.
Purpose The purpose of the study is to synthesize the thio-containing furan-imine-diol monomer using biomass-based 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and thiosemicarbazide. Design/methodology/approach A biomass-based furan-imine diol was prepared by reacting 5-HMF and thiosemicarbazide in a 2:1 molar ratio. The structural modification of the prepared diol was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR), H1 nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) spectroscopic techniques. The resulting diol is then subjected to a reaction with various diisocyanates to yield a series of bio-based urethanes. The chemical modification of the prepared urethane was confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy, the thermal behavior was studied using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Furthermore, the crystallinity of urethanes was determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Findings The prepared urethanes were confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy, which showed the complete disappearance of -NCO stretching and formation of urethanes. The thermal behavior of urethanes showed a three-stage degradation and exhibited good thermal stability. The XRD study represented the semi-crystalline behavior with diffraction peaks around 20° for all the urethanes. Research limitations/implications In this experimental task, molecular weight determination was not performed due to eluent limitation in gel permeation chromatography (GPC) as well as intrinsic viscosity measurements. Characterization like molecular weight and viscosity of polymer required for the certainlty of polymer formation. Originality/value This study utilizes a bio-based 5-HMF component and petrochemical-based thiosemicarbazide for developing thio-containing furan-imine-diol and its urethanes.
Purpose This study aims to develop a sustainable route for the upcycling of aluminium and nylon waste into high-performance metal-polymer composites. The work focuses on evaluating the mechanical, tribological and thermal behaviour of a nylon–reinforced aluminium composite fabricated through a conventional casting technique. Design/methodology/approach A composite containing 20% nylon and rest aluminium by weight was fabricated using the melt-casting process. The material was characterised for its tensile strength, hardness, impact strength, tribological performance and thermal stability. Microstructural analysis was performed to study the dispersion and interfacial interaction between aluminium and nylon phases. Findings The fabricated composite exhibited improvements in impact strength (21%), coefficient of friction (23%) and wear resistance (39%) compared to pure aluminium, while slight reductions were observed in tensile strength (approximately 3.4%) and hardness (approximately 10%). The composite achieved a weight reduction of 16.1% and cost savings between 31% and 54%. Microstructural observations confirmed uniform nylon dispersion within the aluminium matrix, resulting in enhanced tribo-mechanical performance. The thermal stability of the composite was marginally lower than that of pure aluminium. Originality/value This work introduces a novel and sustainable approach for recycling aluminium and nylon waste into hybrid metal–polymer composites with improved performance-to-weight and cost ratios. The developed composite demonstrates potential for structural and functional applications in aerospace and automotive sectors, owing to its lightweight nature, reduced friction, wear resistance and economic feasibility.
PurposeLife cycle assessment was used to compare and analyze the impact of the commonly used labels (PP/glassine and PP/PET), so as to provide certain suggestions for the development of green packaging.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, SimaPro software was used to calculate and analyze the whole life cycle of labels from the stage of raw materials, processing and waste disposal.FindingsTwelve environmental categories were used to quantitatively analyze the environmental impact of the two different labels. The results show that the impact of the production stage on the environment is greater than that of the material stage, and the least impact is seen in final disposal stage.Research limitations/implicationsDuring the post-processing stage of this study, PET was set for incineration, and glassine was 100% recycled.Practical implicationsGreen packaging is the development trend of the future packaging, and follows the principle of 3R1D. According to the calculation results, corresponding suggestions can be put forward from production, processing, use, waste and other aspects, and make corresponding contributions to the development of green packaging.Originality/valueThe contribution and impact of each stage of the product on the environment can be studied. The environmental impact can be reduced through different solutions such as the use of green materials, good processing techniques and higher recycling rates.
