Abstract In this study, a silicon‐carbide‐reinforced crosslinked chitosan polymer–adipic acid biocomposite was synthesized and evaluated for its potential in removing eosin Y, a widely used industrial anionic dye, from aqueous solutions. The physicochemical properties of the chitosan–adipic acid/silicon carbide (CTS‐AA/SiC) composite—including surface porosity, crystallinity, morphology, functional groups, surface charge and elemental composition—were comprehensively characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, SEM, point of zero charge, XRD and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The CTS‐AA/SiC composite exhibited a Langmuir surface area of 36.73 m 2 g –1 , a BET surface area of 24.85 m 2 g –1 , a total pore volume of 0.08638 cm 3 g –1 and an average pore diameter of 13.91 nm. Optimization of key operational parameters affecting dye removal was carried out using response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design. Adsorption equilibrium data were best described by the Freundlich isotherm model, indicating multilayer adsorption onto a heterogeneous surface, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 172.25 mg g –1 . Kinetic analysis revealed that the adsorption process followed a pseudo‐second‐order model, suggesting chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. These results demonstrate that the CTS‐AA/SiC polymer composite is an efficient adsorbent with strong potential for application in industrial wastewater treatment. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Abstract The current study aims to fabricate sodium alginate (SA) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) membranes with different SA/CMC ratios (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, and 60:40) via the solvent‐casting approach under ambient conditions. The physicochemical properties of SA/CMC membranes were systematically characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle measurements, and mechanical analysis. Contact angle measurements were used to assess the hydrophilicity of the membranes’ topmost layer. The surface morphology of membranes increased with increasing CMC concentration up to 30%, after which surface non‐homogeneity became apparent. AFM analysis revealed a reduction in surface roughness of membranes with increasing CMC content. The membranes exhibited good mechanical strength, which varied with CMC content. Thus, the fabricated SA/CMC membranes offer considerable promise for medicinal uses in the healthcare sector. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Abstract Shape memory polyurethanes (SMPUs) are a promising class of multifunctional polymers that combine shape memory features and self‐healing capabilities, thus greatly increasing material life span and structural reliability. The unique segmented architecture of flexible soft segments and rigid hard domains provides an ideal platform to integrate mechanical strength, stimuli response and damage healing into one material system. Shape memory‐assisted self‐healing polyurethanes are shown to facilitate fracture closure and restore interfacial contact, leading to increased effective healing and mechanical restoration, due to shape recovery. In this paper, we give an in‐depth review of the main concepts as well as recent advances concerning self‐healing SMPUs. The first part discusses the chemistry and segmented architecture of the polyurethane networks in terms of phase morphology, molecular mobility, shape memory and healing efficiency. Then, the self‐healing methods based on dynamic chemical interactions, such as Diels–Alder reactions, disulfide bonds, imine bonds, boronic ester bonds and diselenide bonds, are summarized in detail. Moreover, the physical healing processes involving hydrogen bonding and metal–ligand coordination are investigated in detail. The review emphasizes the synergistic interplay between shape memory behavior and self‐healing mechanisms. Finally, the current problems and future research directions for the development of high‐performance, durable and multifunctional SMPUs are discussed. The aim of this study is to provide important insights for the rational design of next‐generation self‐healing polyurethane systems for advanced applications. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Abstract This work reports the synthesis and characterisation of a low‐viscosity, moderately positive zeta potential cationic guar gum (CGG) for use in mild personal care formulations. CGG was synthesised by optimising the etherification of natural GG using 3‐chloro‐2‐(hydroxypropyl)‐trimethyl ammonium chloride as the etherifying agent via one‐factor‐at‐a‐time under optimal reaction conditions. High degrees of substitution (DS = 0.64) were obtained under the optimised reaction conditions, which are higher than those reported in the literature. Structural confirmation of the synthesised CGG was provided via physicochemical characterisation, which included Fourier transform infrared, 1 H NMR, gel permeation chromatography, HPLC and zeta potential measurement. The significant reduction in the average molecular weight, from 1.54 × 10 6 to 3.44 × 10 4 Da, along with a substantial increase in the zeta potential from 0.380 to 13.4 mV, indicated an increased charge density and enhanced electrostatic interactions with negatively charged hair surfaces. Improved performance of the CGG was demonstrated when it was used as a surfactant additive to enhance the conditioning efficiency of the shampoo formulation, as evidenced by SEM, a reduced surface tension of 25.84 dyn cm –1 and an increased foam volume of 108.8 mL. Furthermore, the CGG, in conjunction with the preservative, demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa . These data collectively demonstrate the effective optimisation of a low‐viscosity, low‐molecular‐weight guar derivative that could be utilised in personal care formulations. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Abstract Haptic properties, i.e. the tactile sensations experienced when touching a material, play a crucial role in product acceptance, user experience, and functional performance across diverse industries. Polymeric materials dominate applications where haptics matter, from consumer packaging and automotive interiors to medical devices and textiles. This review discusses the relationship between polymer structure and haptic perception, with the aim of designing materials with targeted tactile properties. Fields addressed herein are molecular architecture and formulation strategies for precise control over haptic attributes including friction, roughness, compliance, and thermal sensation. By bridging fundamental polymer science with psychophysical perception, this review offers practical guidance for developing polymeric materials with optimized haptic performance. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
