Due to their unique physicochemical properties, iron oxide nanoparticles have become an interesting class of materials that can be used in various technological processes. This study highlights the production of hematite nanoparticles (Fe2O3) by the simple co-precipitation method using primary reactants that are iron(III) chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3 6H2O) and ammonia solution. These nanomaterials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD analysis showed that the formation of crystalline Fe2O3 phase was successful and it had crystallite dimensions calculated as about 40 nm. FTIR analysis showed typical Fe-O bands vibrationally, which justified the creation of pure iron oxide structures. SEM micrographs exhibited the morphology of spherical particles and were made to behave as clusters at high temperatures of calcination. Also, the synthesized Fe2O3 nanoparticles possessed significant antimicrobial and antifungal efficacy against specific pathogenic strains, and this should suggest their future use in biomedical and environmental remediation processes.
ZnO–CuO heterojunction thick films were developed via a screen-printing approach and systematically evaluated for low-temperature methane sensing. The formation of a p–n heterojunction between n-type ZnO and p-type CuO significantly modulates charge transport and surface reactivity. Structural analysis confirmed the coexistence of hexagonal ZnO and monoclinic CuO phases, while microstructural studies revealed a porous and well-connected morphology favorable for gas adsorption. Among all compositions, the 5 wt.% CuO–ZnO film exhibited the smallest crystallite size (~44 nm), higher defect density, and enhanced surface activity, leading to improved electronic properties with optimized resistivity and reduced activation energy. Gas sensing results demonstrated a maximum sensitivity of 94.98% toward CH₄ at a low operating temperature of 60 °C (500 ppm), along with fast response and recovery times (8 s/37 s), excellent selectivity, and long-term stability. The superior performance is attributed to the synergistic effects of increased oxygen vacancies, efficient charge transfer across the ZnO–CuO interface, and enhanced modulation of the depletion layer. These findings establish ZnO–CuO heterojunction thick films as promising candidates for energy-efficient methane sensing applications.
Electrical and thermal conducting flexible composite materials are in demand for next-generation electronics. Devices like biomedical instruments, conducting textiles, low-power sources, electronic skin, and flexible displays require stretchable conductors possessing high electrical conductivity under excessive strain and deformation. In this respect, renewable, sustainable materials and/or their biomimicry could help to generate a three-dimensional, highly dense structure. We in this study have hence used the naturally occurring, densified non-conducting feather skeleton to develop three-dimensional conducting films. Herein, the natural feathers were treated with polydopamine solution to create a coating layer with dual action, as a linker for conductive filler as well as for self-adherence of feathers. The optimized amount of feathers and polydopamine is adsorbed with modified carbon nanotubes. Two simple laboratory methods of dip coating and freeze-drying process for the adsorption of conducting material, were optimized. The feathers themselves and polydopamine-coated feathers showed nil electrical conductivity, while different concentrations of filler-containing films showed electrical resistance from 5 to 1 kilo ohm. The film showed similar resistance after bending (50%), stretching (50%), compressing, and even breaking the film and reforming it 10 times exhibited similar trends. The high conductivity, electromechanical stability, and easy production methods make such nano-bio composites as renewable substrates for next-generation electronic devices.
Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes), an invasive aquatic weed with severe negative ecological impacts, represents an abundant and low-cost biomass resource due to its high cellulose content. In this study, cellulose was extracted from water hyacinth through degreasing, alkaline treatment, and bleaching, followed by chemical conversion into carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) via mercerization and etherification. Structural modification was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy which indicated successful etherification without degradation of the cellulose backbone. X-ray diffraction analysis and morphological examination by SEM of cellulose and CMC showed a clear transformation from well-aligned fibrillar structures in cellulose to a more fragmented, rough, and flaky surface in CMC. Both SEM and X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a pronounced reduction in crystalline order after carboxymethylation, reflecting disruption of the hydrogen-bonded cellulose lattice and increased amorphous character. EDX analysis also revealed a systematic increase in oxygen content consistent with incorporation of oxygen-bearing carboxymethyl groups. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated major CMC degradation onset at approximately 250°C suggesting its robust thermal degradation capabilities suited for industrial applications. The synthesized CMC achieved a degree of substitution of 0.69 ± 0.03 (n = 3) indicating a moderate degree of carboxymethyl substitution. From Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), a significant decrease in total residual chromium is observed after CMC was introduced and found that CMC can remove 98.69% of total chromium within 30 minutes from water when used at a concentration of 0.75 g/L. Previous works mainly focus on either cellulose or CMC-modified cellulose derived from water hyacinth for water treatment. But here we report the use of CMC extracted from water hyacinth in its nascent form without further chemical modification or composite formation for chromium removal from wastewater for the very first time.
Molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) is a vital compound that produces electrochromic windows. Dynamic control of the amount of light transmitted through windows can be achieved, leading to drastic building energy efficiency improvements 1. The editorial has highlighted the ability of MoO3 to switch between a transparent and an opaque state upon application of an electric field to create energy-efficient glazing systems that exclude lighting 1. MoO₃ finds application in self-regulating window glass coatings for energy-efficient buildings that control heat and light transfer2. Photochromic Sensors include MoO₃ compounds incorporated into electrochromic devices (ECDs) and e-paper for the color display, which can be controlled. MoO₃-based coatings are being researched for wearable displays, bright windows, and adaptive camouflage. This photo-induced charge separation enhances the efficiency of the photocatalytic water splitting and photo-rechargeable batteries. Researchers have been able to predict material properties using powerful ML algorithms and high-throughput experimental and computational approaches, and identify promising candidates for specific applications3. This editorial addresses molybdenum oxide and compounds’ remarkable electrical and optical properties. This editorial delves into these substances’ unique properties, which are poised to transform different technological areas, from electronics to photonics4. With their varied crystal structure and morphologies, as evidenced by the breakthrough of molybdenum-based nanowires that are highly surface sensitive, to the recent development of molybdenum oxides photonic crystals that manage the propagation of light, these compounds have all proven and consistently shown themselves to be highly versatile and promising in a multitude of fields (5- 6).
A new class of slow-release inorganic glass fertilizer was developed using the melt- quenching fashion to enable sustained nutrient delivery for different crop species. The glass formulations were melted at a temperature range of 750 – 760 °C, with a soaking period of 30 minutes. Their amorphous structure was verified by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, conducted in the 400 – 4000 cm⁻¹ range, revealed crucial optical phonon modes characteristic of the phosphate matrix, with notable absorption bands observed at 413, 471, 551, 760, 879, 920, 1087, 1110, 2193 – 2870, and 3440 – 3500 cm⁻¹. The sursurface morphology was examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and essential composition was assessed via X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Incorporation of MoO₃ into the phosphate glass matrix introduced Raman-active modes between 800 and 1200 cm⁻¹, attributed to symmetric and asymmetric stretching modes of molybdenum-ground polyhedral units. Specifically, the Raman peak at 996 cm⁻¹ was assigned to symmetric Mo=O stretching in distorted MoO₆ octahedra. Thermal behaviour and stability were evaluated using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The findings emphasize the promise of phosphate-ground glass systems as effective, long-lasting, and sustainable matrices for agricultural application.
This study investigates the impact of electrode work function on the performance and efficiency of DPPEZnP-TBO-based tandem organic solar cell (OSC) devices, focusing on PEDOT: PSS as the electrode material. By adjusting the electrode's work function, we investigate its influence on the active layer's electrical properties and the device's key performance metrics, including open-circuit voltage (VOC), short-circuit current density (JSC), power conversion efficiency (PCE), and fill factor (FF). Changes in electrode work function are associated with significant differences in fill factor (FF), power conversion efficiency (PCE), open-circuit voltage (VOC), and short-circuit current density (JSC). The best performance is of tandem organic solar cell is achieved at a work function of 5.2 eV, with a JSC of 2.598 mA/cm², VOC of 1.16 V, PCE of 2.41%, and FF of 79.6%. Optimising the work function improves charge mobility and reduces recombination losses, enhancing overall performance. This research provides valuable insights into improving DPPEZnP-TBO solar cells for durable and scalable large-scale solar energy applications.
The growing demand for biodegradable alternatives to synthetic plastics has shifted attention to protein-based bioplastics. This study focused on developing and characterizing films made from soy protein isolate (SPI) blended with natural rubber (NR) and polymethyl methacrylate grafted natural rubber (PMMA-g-NR), with and without a curing agent (CA). The ideal curing time for NR was found to be 30 h at 60°C, resulting in films that are non-sticky and uniform. Visual assessments reveal that all films have semi-transparent, glossy surfaces, with minor color alterations from heat exposure. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed successful interactions between SPI and both additives, enhanced cross-linking, and network formation in the sample treated with the curing agent. UV-Visible spectroscopy demonstrated that PMMA-g-NR incorporated SPI films have better transparency than NR films, especially when cross-linked with a curing agent. NR-incorporated films clearly outperform PMMA-g-NR films in mechanical properties, highlighting NR's effectiveness in enhancing durability and performance. Water uptake studies revealed that NR increased the hydrophilicity of the films, whereas PMMA-g-NR with curing agent significantly reduced water absorption, i.e., PC25 showed the lowest water uptake (~70%). Additionally, Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) analysis indicated that the incorporation of additives (especially with curing agent) enhanced barrier properties, and NC25 and PC25 showed the lowest permeability. However, antibacterial assays showed no inhibitory effect against Escherechia coli and Listeria monocytogenes. In summary, the findings indicate that PMMA-g-NR, particularly with a curing agent, outperforms NR in improving the physical and barrier properties of SPI films. This makes them suitable as eco-friendly packaging options.
The global population increased rapidly and was expected to reach about 16.46 billion by 2050. At the same time, the amount of arable land per person decreased, creating an urgent need to rethink fertilizer use and find innovative ways to ensure food security. To address this challenge, researchers developed phosphate-based glass fertilizers using a melt-quenching method. The process involved heating various batch compositions to around 750°C for 30 minutes to form a new class of fertilizers designed to enhance crop yield, improve nutrient efficiency, and reduce environmental harm through controlled nutrient release. The prepared glass fertilizers were thoroughly examined using advanced analytical methods such as atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV) to study their chemical and structural properties. Phosphate content was measured through a standardized gravimetric technique using quimocia reagent, ensuring precise and reliable results. To test their agricultural performance, controlled pot experiments were conducted on sesame plants. Growth parameters such as plant length, grain size, and grain weight were compared with those obtained using conventional fertilizers. The results, presented in graphical and tabular forms, showed that the glass fertilizers significantly improved crop growth and productivity. Overall, the study demonstrated that phosphate-based glass fertilizers had great potential to increase crop yield, enhance nutrient use efficiency, and reduce environmental pollution. These findings highlighted their promise in promoting sustainable agricultural practices that balance food production with environmental protection and social responsibility, while emphasizing the need for continued research and optimization of these innovative fertilizers.
An environmentally friendly substitute for traditional chemical processes is the green production of Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles. This study report comprehensively examines the synthesis, characterisation, and uses of TiO₂ nanoparticles using Swertiachirata leaf extract as a capping and reducing agent. Rich in bioactive phytochemicals such xanthones, terpenoids, flavonoids, and seco-iridoid glycosides, the plant extract aids in the reduction of titanium precursors under mild reaction conditions without the need of toxic chemicals. The nanoparticles synthesized were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), FESEM EDX, and UV-visible spectrophotometry. The resultant TiO₂ nanoparticles are found to be of spherical to nearly spherical shape, anatase phase crystallinity, and particle diameters between 15 and 50 nm. This environmentally sustainable synthesis method obviates the necessity for toxic reducing agents and energy-intensive processes, presenting potential applications in environmental cleanup, biomedical devices, and pharmaceutical formulations.
Nano hydroxyapatite and β tricalcium phosphate (HAp/β-TCP) composite materials with predesigned phase composition were successfully synthesized via solution combustion route using calcium nitrate tetrahydrate, diammonium hydrogen phosphate and glycine as the fuel. The investigations revealed that combustion flame temperature and its duration depend on several process parameters, and both play a key role in finding out the characteristics of the synthesized powders. An optimal parametric setting was established using Taguchi’s design of experiments (DoE) technique to control flame temperature in terms of achieving the best product characteristics. It was found that the optimal parametric combination, consisting of batch size of 6 g, total valence of reducing and oxidizing agent (fuel to oxidizer) ratio of 0.8 and starting furnace temperature of 500 °C, resulted nano sized HAp/β-TCP) composite powders with particle sizes less than 100 nm.
Using a hydrothermal process, we synthesized copper oxide supported on reduced graphene oxide (CuO-rGO) nanocomposites, which we then used as an electro-catalyst for the electro-oxidation of methanol. The CuO-rGOcalcined nanocomposite shown good catalytic activity towards methanol electro-oxidation following calcination at 400 °C. Additionally, FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, EDX, and the dynamic light scattering (DLS) method were used to analyse the calcined composites. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to assess the substances electrochemical analyses. The CuO-rGOcalcined nanocomposite experiences irreversible methanol oxidation in an alkaline media. The nanocomposite has a lower positive characteristic peak (0.72 V) in the forward scan compared to CuO (0.75 V). Furthermore, the onset potential of the nanocomposites is lower than that of CuO, suggesting a reduction in the overpotential for methanol oxidation at the nanocomposites. The onset potential for the oxidation of methanol at the CuO-rGOcalcined is around 0.44 V which is lower than that of several reported electrocatalysts such as CuO (ca. 0.46 V), Cu NW@rGO-GCE (ca. 0. 48 V), Cu NW-GCE (ca. 0. 6 V) poly-crystalline Cu-GCE (ca. 0.5 V), and Ni–Cu-GCE (ca. 0.5 V). Additionally, the peak current density at the CuO-rGOcalcined nanocomposite is 2.4 times higher than that of CuO, suggesting the superior electro-catalytic activity of the nanocomposite. Chronoamperometry study reveals the exceptional durability and good tolerance against the oxidizing intermediate of the nanocomposites. The stability of the nanocomposite was further investigated for 100 continuous cycles. CuO-rGOcalcined nanocomposite featuring high durability, low-cost and low onset potential reveals a superior catalytic activity for methanol electro-oxidation.
ABSTRACT: Composites are most widely used materials as they can provide specific advantages and can relatively easily combine with other materials exhibiting desired properties. Various composites like nanocomposites, matrix composites, composites augmented using diversified fibers etc. do commonly utilized towards discrete sapphires. Environmentalist amalgation considered to be unmistakable grade with regard to natural amalgation at which point natural fibers combine with natural resins to make light and strong composites. The present paper studies green composites, encompassing thermosetting and thermoplastic variants. It focuses on the selection of an appropriate polymer matrix and natural-organic filler for a given polymer. In the field of environmentalist amalgation already utilized matrixes, raw plus pure fibrils, surface modification methods [physical and chemical modifications] and methods of preparation of green composites are also discussed in this paper.
This study focuses on the ion transport behavior and the fabrication of a solid-state battery using a newly developed sodium ion-conducting blended solid polymer electrolyte (BSPE). The material was prepared with the composition 98 wt.% of [70PEO:30NaCl] blended with 2 wt.% PVP, synthesized via a hot-press technique. Among the tested formulations, this composition demonstrated the maximum ionic conductivity, approximately 3.6×10-5 S·cm⁻¹ at ambient temperature. To understand the ion conduction mechanism across varying temperatures, key parameters such as ionic conductivity (σ), ion mobility (μ), charge carrier density (n), ionic transference number (tₒₙ), and drift velocity (vd) were systematically measured. Activation energies, including migration energy (Em), formation energy (Ef), and drift energy (Ed), were determined using Arrhenius analysis. Utilizing the optimized BSPE composition, a solid-state polymer battery was assembled, and its performance was evaluated under multiple load conditions at room temperature.
ABSTRACT: The innovative process of 3D Printing creates objects through the sequential layering of materials to fabricate physical objects from digital designs, enabling rapid prototyping and production. 3D printing innovation has changed the medical product industry by facilitating innovative design and streamlined production of complex materials with unprecedented versatility, allowing for customized and programmable medicine that can be adapted to individual patient profiles. 3D printing technologies offer detailed oversight of membrane pore size, perforation, and system cohesion, surpassing traditional methods. The field of 3D printing encompasses a diverse array of techniques, including Fused Filament Fabrication [FFF], inkjet printing, powder bed fusion, Selective Laser Sintering [SLS], Stereolithography [SLA], and several emerging methods that continue to evolve. It has unlocked customizable drug delivery platforms, ensuring safer and more effective treatments. Our review offers a concise overview of 3D printing, encompassing its techniques, applications, and advancements in pharmaceutical and medical sciences, providing a thorough snapshot of its present situation and potential upcoming direction. KEYWORDS: Customized medicine; 3D-printing technology; Local fabrication; Rapid prototyping; Stereolithography
