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1 – 10 of 70Nausheen Bibi Jaffur, Pratima Jeetah and Gopalakrishnan Kumar
The increasing accumulation of synthetic plastic waste in oceans and landfills, along with the depletion of non-renewable fossil-based resources, has sparked environmental…
Abstract
The increasing accumulation of synthetic plastic waste in oceans and landfills, along with the depletion of non-renewable fossil-based resources, has sparked environmental concerns and prompted the search for environmentally friendly alternatives. Biodegradable plastics derived from lignocellulosic materials are emerging as substitutes for synthetic plastics, offering significant potential to reduce landfill stress and minimise environmental impacts. This study highlights a sustainable and cost-effective solution by utilising agricultural residues and invasive plant materials as carbon substrates for the production of biopolymers, particularly polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), through microbiological processes. Locally sourced residual materials were preferred to reduce transportation costs and ensure accessibility. The selection of suitable residue streams was based on various criteria, including strength properties, cellulose content, low ash and lignin content, affordability, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, shelf-life, mechanical and physical properties, short maturation period, antibacterial properties and compatibility with global food security. Life cycle assessments confirm that PHB dramatically lowers CO2 emissions compared to traditional plastics, while the growing use of lignocellulosic biomass in biopolymeric applications offers renewable and readily available resources. Governments worldwide are increasingly inclined to develop comprehensive bioeconomy policies and specialised bioplastics initiatives, driven by customer acceptability and the rising demand for environmentally friendly solutions. The implications of climate change, price volatility in fossil materials, and the imperative to reduce dependence on fossil resources further contribute to the desirability of biopolymers. The study involves fermentation, turbidity measurements, extraction and purification of PHB, and the manufacturing and testing of composite biopolymers using various physical, mechanical and chemical tests.
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The purpose of this study is to develop active package films using clove essential oil (CEO) and biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) with varying weight…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop active package films using clove essential oil (CEO) and biodegradable polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) with varying weight percentages of SiO2 nanoparticles (SiO2NPs), as well as to investigate the mechanical, barrier, thermal, optical, surface hydrophobicity and antibacterial properties of PBAT incorporated with CEO as a natural plasticizer and SiO2NPs as a nanofiller.
Design/methodology/approach
PBAT-based bio-composites films were fabricated with different weight percentage of CEO (5% and 10%) and nanosilica (1% and 3%) by solution casting method. The packaging performance was investigated using universal testing machine, spectrophotometer, contact angle goniometer, oxygen and water vapour permeability tester. The antibacterial properties of PBAT-based nanocomposite and composite films were investigated using the ISO 22196 by zone of inhibition method.
Findings
The mechanical results exhibited that the addition of 10 Wt.% of CEO into PBAT increases the percentage of elongation, whereas, the addition of 3 Wt.% of SiO2NPs increases the tensile strength of the composite film. The presence of CEO in PBAT exhibits a good barrier against water permeability and SiO2NPs in the PBAT matrix help to reduce the opacity and hydrophobicity. The antimicrobial and thermal results revealed that the inclusion of 10 Wt.% of CEO and 3 Wt.% of SiO2NPs into PBAT polymer improved antimicrobial and thermal resistance properties.
Originality/value
A new PBAT-based active packaging film developed using natural plasticizers CEO and nanofiller SiO2 with a wide range of applications in the active food packaging applications. Moreover, they have good surface hydrophobicity, thermal stability, mechanical, barrier and antibacterial properties.
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Danusa Silva da Costa, Lucely Nogueira dos Santos, Nelson Rosa Ferreira, Katiuchia Pereira Takeuchi and Alessandra Santos Lopes
The aim was not to perform a systematic review but firstly to search in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science databases on the papers published in the last five years…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim was not to perform a systematic review but firstly to search in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science databases on the papers published in the last five years using tools for reviewing the statement of preferred information item for systematic reviews without focusing on a randomized analysis and secondly to perform a bibliometric analysis on the properties of films and coatings added of tocopherol for food packaging.
Design/methodology/approach
On January 24, 2022, information was sought on the properties of films and coatings added of tocopherol for use as food packaging published in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Further analysis was performed using bibliometric indicators with the VOSviewer tool.
Findings
The searches returned 33 studies concerning the properties of films and coatings added of tocopherol for food packaging, which were analyzed together for a better understanding of the results. Data analysis using the VOSviewer tool allowed a better visualization and exploration of these words and the development of maps that showed the main links between the publications.
Originality/value
In the area of food science and technology, the development of polymers capable of promoting the extension of the shelf life of food products is sought, so the knowledge of the properties is vital for this research area since combining a biodegradable polymeric material with a natural antioxidant active is of great interest for modern society since they associate environmental preservation with food preservation.
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Siddhesh Umesh Mestry, Vardhan B. Satalkar and S.T. Mhaske
This study aims to describe the design and synthesis of two novel azo and imine chromophores-based dyes derived from two different aldehydes with intramolecular colour matching…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to describe the design and synthesis of two novel azo and imine chromophores-based dyes derived from two different aldehydes with intramolecular colour matching that are pH sensitive.
Design/methodology/approach
The visible absorption wavelength (λmax) was extended when azo chromophore was included in imine-based systems. The dyed patterns created sophisticated colour-changing paper packaging sensors with pH-sensitive chromophores using alum as a mediator or mordant. Due to the tight adhesive bonding, the dyes on paper’s cellulose fibres could not be removed by ordinary water even at extremely high or low pH, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy analysis. The dyed patterns demonstrated an evident, sensitive and fast colour-changing mechanism with varying pH, from pale yellow to red for Dye-I and from pale yellow to brown-violet for Dye-II.
Findings
The λmax for colour changing was recorded from 400 to 490 nm for Dye-I, whereas from 400 to 520 for Dye-II. The freshness judgement of food was checked using actual experiments with cooked crab spoilage, where the cooked crab was incubated at 37 oC for 6 h to see the noticeable colour change from yellow to brown-violet with Dye-II. The colour-changing mechanism was studied with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra at different pH, and thin layer chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance and FTIR spectroscopy studied the desired structure formation of the dyes. Potential uses for smart packaging sensors include quickly detecting food freshness during transportation or right before consumption.
Originality/value
1. Two novel azo-imine dyes have been synthesized with a pH-responsive effect. 2. The pH-responsive mechanism was studied. 3. The study was supported by computational chemistry using density functional theory. 4. The obtained dyes were used to make pH-responsive sensors for seafood packaging to judge the freshness.
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Mohammad Mehralian, Ahmadreza Fallahfaragheh and Mohammad Khajeh Mehrizi
This study aims to investigation of the guar gum-manganese dioxide (GG/MnO2) nanocomposite (NC) synthesized using an environment-friendly method and the degradation of reactive…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigation of the guar gum-manganese dioxide (GG/MnO2) nanocomposite (NC) synthesized using an environment-friendly method and the degradation of reactive yellow (RY 145) dye in the UV system.
Design/methodology/approach
Characterization of the GG/MnO2 NCs were conducted using field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Experiments were conducted using a 1 L glass reactor coupled with Ultraviolet (UV-C) blue light bulb of wavelength 250 nm and power of 8 W.
Findings
The NC (2.25 g/L) displayed high RY 145 dye degradation (81%) with 10 mg/L of concentration at pH 3. The coefficient of determination (R2 0.99) also depicted that the model fits the experimental data. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the F-values of 464.75, 276.04 and 5.15 are related to the dose of GG/MnO2 NCs, initial concentration of RY 145 dye and solution pH, respectively.
Practical implications
The GG/MnO2 NCs followed by photo oxidation process (UV-process) could be used to degrade the RY 145 dye from synthetic wastewater.
Originality/value
There are two main innovations. One is that the novel process is performed successfully for RY 145 dye degradation. The other is that the optimized conditions are obtained by Box–Behnken design. Also, the effects of different variables on the RY 145 dye removal efficiency were investigated.
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Upendra S. Gupta, Sudhir Tiwari and Uttam Sharma
The incompatibility of natural fibers with polymer matrices is one of the key obstacles restricting their use in polymer composites. The interfacial connection between the fibers…
Abstract
Purpose
The incompatibility of natural fibers with polymer matrices is one of the key obstacles restricting their use in polymer composites. The interfacial connection between the fibers and the matrix was weak resulting in a lack of mechanical properties in the composites. Chemical treatments are often used to change the surface features of plant fibers, yet these treatments have significant drawbacks such as using substantial amounts of liquid and chemicals. Plasma modification has recently become very popular as a viable option as it is easy, dry, ecologically friendly, time-saving and reduces energy consumption. This paper aims to explore plasma treatment for improving the surface adhesion characteristics of sisal fibers (SFs) without compromising the mechanical attributes of the fiber.
Design/methodology/approach
A cold glow discharge plasma (CGDP) modification using N2 gas at varied power densities of 80 W and 120 W for 0.5 h was conducted to improve the surface morphology and interfacial compatibility of SF. The mechanical characteristics of unmodified and CGDP-modified SF-reinforced epoxy composite (SFREC) were examined as per the American Society for Testing and Materials standards.
Findings
The cold glow discharge nitrogen plasma treatment of SF at 120 W (30 min) enhanced the SFREC by nearly 122.75% superior interlaminar shear strength, 71.09% greater flexural strength, 84.22% higher tensile strength and 109.74% higher elongation. The combination of improved surface roughness and more effective lignocellulosic exposure has been responsible for the increase in the mechanical characteristics of treated composites. The development of hydrophobicity in the SF had been induced by CGDP N2 modification and enhanced the size of crystals and crystalline structure by removing some unwanted constituents of the SF and etching the smooth lignin-rich surface layer of the SF particularly revealed via FTIR and XRD.
Research limitations/implications
Chemical and physical treatments have been identified as the most efficient ways of treating the fiber surface. However, the huge amounts of liquids and chemicals needed in chemical methods and their exorbitant performance in terms of energy expenditure have limited their applicability in the past decades. The use of appropriate cohesion in addition to stimulating the biopolymer texture without changing its bulk polymer properties leads to the formation and establishment of plasma surface treatments that offer a unified, repeatable, cost-effective and environmentally benign replacement.
Originality/value
The authors are sure that this technology will be adopted by the polymer industry, aerospace, automotive and related sectors in the future.
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Salwa Moustafa Amer Mahmoud, Tarek Hamdy, Mohamed Fares, Wissam Ayman, Shrouk Muhamed, Aya Abdel Khaliq and Lilian Salah
This paper aims to investigate the ability of traditional biopolymers, such as funori or the nanoscale form of cellulose nanocrystals, to consolidate fragile paper and preserve it…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the ability of traditional biopolymers, such as funori or the nanoscale form of cellulose nanocrystals, to consolidate fragile paper and preserve it for as long as possible.
Design/methodology/approach
Degraded papers dating back two centuries were separated into paper samples for consolidation processes. Funori – a marine spleen – was used as a traditional consolidation material and a mixture with ZnO NPs compared with modern materials, such as cellulose nanocrystals. The samples were aged for 25 years, examinations and analyses were performed using scanning electron microscopy and color change was assessed using the CIELAB system, X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy.
Findings
According to the results, using traditional materials to consolidate damage, such as funori, after aging resulted in glossiness on the surface, a color change and increased water content and oxidation. Furthermore, samples treated with a mixture of ZnO NPs and funori revealed that the mixture improved the sample properties and increased the degree of crystallization. Cellulose nanocrystals improved the surface, filled gaps, formed bridges between the fibers and acted as a protector from aging effects.
Originality/value
This paper highlights the ability of nanomaterials to enhance the properties of materials as additives and treat the paper manuscripts from weaknesses.
Chigoziri N. Njoku, Temple Uzoma Maduoma, Wilfred Emori, Rita Emmanuel Odey, Beshel M. Unimke, Emmanuel Yakubu, Cyril C. Anorondu, Daniel I. Udunwa, Onyinyechi C. Njoku and Kechinyere B. Oyoh
Corrosion is a major concern for many industries that use metals as structural or functional materials, and the use of corrosion inhibitors is a widely accepted strategy to…
Abstract
Purpose
Corrosion is a major concern for many industries that use metals as structural or functional materials, and the use of corrosion inhibitors is a widely accepted strategy to protect metals from deterioration in corrosive environments. Moreover, the toxic nature, non-biodegradability and price of most conventional corrosion inhibitors have encouraged the application of greener and more sustainable options, with natural and synthetic drugs being major actors. Hence, this paper aims to stress the capability of natural and synthetic drugs as manageable and sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions to the problem of metal corrosion.
Design/methodology/approach
In this review, the recent developments in the use of natural and synthetic drugs as corrosion inhibitors are explored in detail to highlight the key advancements and drawbacks towards the advantageous utilization of drugs as corrosion inhibitors.
Findings
Corrosion is a critical issue in numerous modern applications, and conventional strategies of corrosion inhibition include the use of toxic and environmentally harmful chemicals. As greener alternatives, natural compounds like plant extracts, essential oils and biopolymers, as well as synthetic drugs, are highlighted in this review. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of these compounds, as well as their effectiveness in preventing corrosion, are discussed in the review.
Originality/value
This survey stresses on the most recent abilities of natural and synthetic drugs as viable and sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions to the problem of metal corrosion, thus expanding the general knowledge of green corrosion inhibitors.
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Adib Bin Rashid, Abu Saleh Md. Nakib Uddin, Fahima Akter Azrin, Khondker Safin Kaosar Saad and Md Enamul Hoque
The main objective of this paper is to illustrate an analytical view of different methods of 3D bioprinting, variations, formulations and characteristics of biomaterials. This…
Abstract
Purpose
The main objective of this paper is to illustrate an analytical view of different methods of 3D bioprinting, variations, formulations and characteristics of biomaterials. This review also aims to discover all the areas of applications and scopes of further improvement of 3D bioprinters in this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper reviewed a number of papers that carried evaluations of different 3D bioprinting methods with different biomaterials, using different pumps to print 3D scaffolds, living cells, tissue and organs. All the papers and articles are collected from different journals and conference papers from 2014 to 2022.
Findings
This paper briefly explains how the concept of a 3D bioprinter was developed from a 3D printer and how it affects the biomedical field and helps to recover the lack of organ donors. It also gives a clear explanation of three basic processes and different strategies of these processes and the criteria of biomaterial selection. This paper gives insights into how 3D bioprinters can be assisted with machine learning to increase their scope of application.
Research limitations/implications
The chosen research approach may limit the generalizability of the research findings. As a result, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed hypotheses further.
Practical implications
This paper includes implications for developing 3D bioprinters, developing biomaterials and increasing the printability of 3D bioprinters.
Originality/value
This paper addresses an identified need by investigating how to enable 3D bioprinting performance.
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Khaled Mostafa, Mohamed Ramadan and Azza El-Sanabary
The purpose of this study is to investigate the authors' previously prepared and fully characterized poly (methacrylamide)-chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) graft copolymer having…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the authors' previously prepared and fully characterized poly (methacrylamide)-chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) graft copolymer having 50.2% graft yield with respect to flocculation efficiency for ferric laurate aqueous dispersions. This was done to compare the ability of the latter cheap, biodegradable and ecofriendly hybrid natural-synthetic polymeric substrate as a flocculant in comparison with higher cost, nonbiodegradable and harmful polyacrylamide as a well-known synthetic flocculant counterpart.
Design/methodology/approach
The graft copolymerization process was carried out at 450°Cfor 120 min using (1.0 g) CNPs, methacrylamide (1.5 g), 100 mmol/l potassium chromate and 80 mmol/l mandelic acid. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, elemental analysis and specific viscosity were used to characterize and analyze the resultant copolymer. The flocculation efficiency was conferred in terms of transmittance % and weight removal %. The main factors influencing the flocculation process, such as flocculent dose, flocculation medium pH, stirring speed, flocculation temperature and grafting extent, were comprehensively discussed.
Findings
The flocculation efficiency of the prepared copolymers revealed the following findings: increased by increasing the flocculant dose, pH, temperature and stirring speed to a maximum values denoted at 30 ppm, 6.0, 30°C and 50 r/min, respectively, then decreased thereafter; increased by increasing the extent of grafting within the range studied; showed a comparable flocculation efficiency in comparison with polyacrylamide as a synthetic polymeric flocculent; and, finally, a preliminary bridging mechanism representing the attraction between the anionic suspended particles ferric laurate and cationic poly (MAam)-CNPs graft copolymer has been projected.
Originality/value
The advancement addressed here is undertaken with using the authors’ poly (MAam)-CNPs graft copolymers having different extent of grafting (a point which is not cited in the literature especially for the authors’ prepared copolymer) as a hybrid natural-synthetic polymeric substrate as a flocculant for ferric laurate aqueous dispersions in comparison with the high cost and nondegradable polyacrylamide synthetic flocculant.
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