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Electronic paper displays rely on electrokinetic effects in nonpolar solvents to drive the displacement of colloidal particles within a fluidic cell. While Electrophoresis (EP) is a well-established and frequently employed phenomenon, electro-osmosis (EO), which drives fluid flow along charged solid surfaces, has not been studied as extensively. We hypothesize that by exploiting the interplay between these effects, an enhanced particle transport can be achieved. In this study, we experimentally investigate the combined effects of EP and EO for colloidal particles in non-polar solvents, driven by an electric field. We use astigmatism micro-particle tracking velocimetry (A- μ PTV) to measure the motion of charged particles within model fluidic cells. Using a simple approach that relies on basic fluid flow properties we extract the contributions due to EP and EO, finding that EO contributes significantly to particle transport. The validity of our approach is confirmed by measurements on particles with different magnitudes of charge, and by comparison to numerical simulations. We find that EO flows can play a dominant role in the transport of particles in electrokinetic display devices. This can be exploited to speed up particle transport, potentially yielding displays with significantly faster switching times. Interplay of electrokinetic effects : Driven by the applied electric field, both electro-osmosis (EO, top left), which drives a flow along the surfaces of the fluidic cell, and electrophoresis (EP, top right), which drives a migration of particles relative to the background liquid, occur in our system. A typical example of the resultant particle velocity field (bottom) illustrates the important role of EO on particle transport in the fluidic cell. • Studied electrokinetics of particles in nonpolar solvent using astigmatism micro-PTV. • Both electrophoresis (EP) and electro-osmosis (EO) play important roles. • Combination of EO and EP could be exploited in faster switching e-paper displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bilayered V 2 O 5 nH 2 O xerogel constructed 2D nanopapers were synthesized. • The V 2 O 5 nH 2 O Xerogel combines oxygen defect engineering. • Oxygen defect improves Zn2+/Mg2+ insertion/extraction kinetics. Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) and aqueous magnesium ion batteries (AMIBs) offer powerful alternatives for large-scale energy storage because of their high safety and low cost. Consequently, the design of high-performance cathode materials is essential. In this paper, we present a simple strategy that combines oxygen defect (O d) engineering with a 2D-on-2D homogeneous nanopape-like bilayer V 2 O 5 nH 2 O xerogel (BL-HVO d NPS). This strategy employs O d to improve Zn2+/Mg2+insertion/extraction kinetics and reduce irreversible processes for high-performance AZIBs/AMIBs. And interlayer water molecules serve as an effective spacer to stabilize the expanded interlayer gap in BL-HVO d NPS, thereby providing extended diffusion channels for Zn2+/Mg2+ during insertion/extraction. The interlayer water molecules help shield the electrostatic interaction between Zn2+/Mg2+ and BL-HVO d NPS lattice, which improves diffusion kinetics during repeated. In addition, electrochemical characterization results indicate that the BL-HVO d NPS can effectively the surface adsorption and internal diffusion of Zn2+/Mg2+. More importantly, the successfully prepared unique 2D-on-2D homogenous nanopaper structure enhances electrolyte/electrode contact and reduces the migration/diffusion path of electrons/Zn2+ and Mg2+, thus greatly improving rate performance. As a result, the BL-HVO d NPS as AZIBs/AMIBs electrodes offer better reversible capacity of 361.8 and 162.8 mA h g−1 (at 0.2 A g−1), while displaying impressively long cycle lifes. This method provides a way to prepare advanced xerogel cathode materials for AZIBs and AMIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bilayer photothermal paper-based 3D cone flowing evaporator with high solar light absorption, low water evaporation enthalpy and excellent salt-rejecting performance is fabricated using multilayered MXene, ultralong hydroxyapatite nanowires, and hydrophilic polymers. The 3D cone flowing evaporator cooperates with a siphon effect-driven unidirectional fluid transportation unit to guide concentrated saline flows out from the evaporating surface, leading to high water evaporation rate and salt-rejecting stable seawater desalination performance. [Display omitted] • A bilayer photothermal paper-based cone flowing water evaporator is reported. • The evaporator exhibits excellent properties for solar seawater desalination. • The evaporator exhibits much higher water evaporation rate than most reported values. • The evaporator can effectively prevent salt accumulation on the evaporating surface. Solar energy-driven water evaporation technology is a promising, low-cost and sustainable approach to alleviate the global clean water shortage, but usually suffers from low water evaporation rate and severe salt deposition on the water evaporation surface. In this work, a hydrophilic bilayer photothermal paper-based three-dimensional (3D) cone flowing evaporator was designed and prepared for stable high-performance seawater desalination with excellent salt-rejecting ability. The as-prepared bilayer photothermal paper consisted of MXene (Ti 3 C 2 T x) and HAA (ultralong hydroxyapatite nanowires, poly(acrylic acid), and poly(acrylic acid-2-hydroxyethyl ester)). The accordion-like multilayered MXene acted as the efficient solar light absorber, and ultralong hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanowires served as the thermally insulating and supporting skeleton with a porous networked structure. A siphon effect-driven unidirectional fluid transportation unit in the 3D cone flowing evaporator could guide the concentrated saline flowing away from the evaporating surface to prevent salt deposition on the evaporation surface, avoiding severe deterioration of the performance in solar water evaporation. Furthermore, combining high solar light absorption and high photothermal conversion efficiencies, low water evaporation enthalpy (1838 ± 11 J g−1), and additional energy taken from the ambient environment, the as-prepared cone flowing evaporator exhibited a high water evaporation rate of 3.22 ± 0.20 kg m−2 h−1 for real seawater under one sun illumination (1 kW m−2), which was significantly higher than many values reported in the literature. This study provides an effective approach for designing high-performance solar energy-driven water evaporators for sustainable seawater desalination and wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MXene-modified papers with high-uniform loading of polypyrrole and excellent conductivity have been fabricated via a multiple self-assembly and in-situ polymerization strategy, which achieves boosting areal capacitance. [Display omitted] • Multiple self-assembly and in-situ polymerization strategy is proposed tofabricate paper-based supercapacitors. • Alternate adsorption of MXene and polypyrrole on paper yields an ultra-high polypyrrole loading of 10.0 mg/cm2. • The paper-based supercapacitor shows a boosting areal capacitance of 2316 mF/cm2. Despite the intriguing features of freestanding flexible electronic devices, such as their binder-free nature and cost-effectiveness, the limited loading capacity of active material poses a challenge to achieving practical high-performance flexible electrodes. We propose a novel approach that integrates multiple self-assembly and in-situ polymerization techniques to fabricate a high-loading paper-based flexible electrode (MXene/Polypyrrole/Paper) with exceptional areal capacitance. The approach enables polypyrrole to form a porous conductive network structure on the surface of paper fiber through MXene grafting via hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction, resulting in an exceptionally high polypyrrole loading of 10.0 mg/cm2 and a conductivity of 2.03 S/cm. Moreover, MXene-modified polypyrrole paper exhibits a more homogeneous pore size distribution ranging from 5 to 50 μm and an increased specific surface area of 3.11 m2/g. Additionally, we have optimized in-situ polymerization cycles for paper-based supercapacitors, resulting in a remarkable areal capacitance of 2316 mF/cm2 (at 2 mA/cm2). The capacitance retention rate and conductivity rate maintain over 90 % after undergoing 100 bends.The maximum energy density and cycling stability are characterized to be 83.6 μWh/cm2 and up to 96 % retention after 10,000 cycles. These results significantly outperform those previously reported for paper-based counterparts. Overall, our work presents a facile and versatile strategy for assembling high-loading, paper-based flexible supercapacitors network architecture that can be employed in developing large-scale energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial processes and municipal wastes largely contribute to the fluctuations in iron (Fe) content in soils. Fe, when present in unfavorable amount, causes harmful effects on human, flora, and fauna. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the composition of Fe in surface soils from paper mill and municipal landfill sites and assess their potential ecological and human health risks. Geochemical fractionation was conducted to explore the chemical bonding of Fe across different fractions, i.e., water-soluble (F1) to residual (F6). Different contamination factors and pollution indices were evaluated to comprehend Fe contamination extent across the study area. Results indicated the preference for less mobile forms in the paper mill and landfill, with 26.66% and 43.46% of Fe associated with the Fe–Mn oxide bound fraction (F4), and 57.22% and 24.78% in the residual fraction (F6). Maximum mobility factor (MF) of 30.65% was observed in the paper mill, and 80.37% in the landfill. The enrichment factor (EF) varied within the range of 20 < EF < 40, signifying a high level of enrichment in the soil. The individual contamination factor (ICF) ranged from 0 to >6, highlighting low to high contamination. Adults were found to be more vulnerable towards Fe associated health risks compared to children. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) index showed the highest risk potential pathways as dermal contact > ingestion > inhalation. The study offers insights into potential Fe contamination risks in comparable environments, underscoring the crucial role of thorough soil assessments in shaping land use and waste management policies. [Display omitted] • Geochemical fractionation unveils less bioavailable Fe in contaminated soil. • EF, ICF, and I geo indicate high Fe contamination. • Adults are more susceptible to potential health risks from surplus Fe exposure. • HQ analysis pinpoints dermal contact as the primary pathway for Fe exposure risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of microalgae and bacteria as a strategy for the startup of bioreactors for the treatment of industrial wastewater can be a sustainable and economically viable alternative. This technology model provides satisfactory results in the nitrification and denitrification process for nitrogen removal, organic matter removal, biomass growth, sedimentation, and byproducts recovery for added-value product production. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of microalgae and bacteria in their symbiotic process when used in the treatment of paper pulp industry wastewater. The experiment, lasting fourteen days, utilized four bioreactors with varying concentrations in mgVSS/L of microalgae to bacteria ratio (R1-100:100, R2-100:300, R3-100:500, R4-300:100) in the startup process. Regarding the sludge volumetric index (SVI), the results show that the R1 and R2 reactors developed SVI30/SVI10 biomass in the range of 85.57 ± 7.33% and 84.72 ± 8.19%, respectively. The lipid content in the biomass of reactors R1, R2, R3 e R4 was 13%, 7%, 19%, and 22%, respectively. This high oil content at the end of the batch, may be related to the nutritional stress that the species underwent during this feeding regime. In terms of chlorophyll, the bioreactor with an initial inoculation of 100:100 showed better symbiotic growth of microalgae and bacteria, allowing exponential growth of microalgae. The total chlorophyll value for this bioreactor was 801.46 ± 196.96 μg/L. Biological removal of nitrogen from wastewater from the paper pulp industry is a challenge due to the characteristics of the effluent, but the four reactors operated in a single batch obtained good nitrogen removal. Ammonia nitrogen removal performances were 91.55 ± 9.99%, 72.13 ± 19.18%, 64.04 ± 21.34%, and 86.15 ± 30.10% in R1, R2, R3, and R4, respectively. [Display omitted] • Microalgae and bacteria symbiotically initiated bioreactor start-up. • Initial inoculation concentrations were critical for photogranule development. • High total nitrogen removal efficiency in all bioreactor configurations. • Optimal setup boosts biomass and pigment. • Microalgae-bacteria consortium facilitated the production of valuable bioproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The pulp and paper sectors are thriving yet pose significant environmental threats to water bodies, mainly due to the substantial release of pollutants. Lignin-derived compounds are among the most problematic of these contaminants. To address this issue, we present our initial results on utilizing organic semiconductor photocatalysis under visible light for treating lignin-derived compounds. Our investigation has been centered around creating a green and cost-effective organic semiconductor photocatalyst. This catalyst is designed using a structure of bagasse cellulose spheres to support PM6 (poly[(2,6-(4,8-bis(5-(2-ethylhexyl)-4-fluorothiophen-2-yl)benzo[1,2- b :4,5- b' ]dithiophene))– co -(1,3-di(5-thiophene-2-yl)-5,7-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-benzo[1,2- c :4,5- c' ]dithiophene-4,8-dione))]: MeIC (3,9-bis(2-methylene-(3-(1,1-dicyanomethylene)-cyclopentane-1,3-dione[ c ]-1-methyl-thiophe))-5,5,11,11-tetrakis(4-hexylphenyl)-dithieno[2,3- d:2′ , 3′-d' ]-s-indaceno[1,2- b :5,6- b' ]-dithiophene)). This photocatalyst demonstrates remarkable efficiency, achieving over 91 % degradation of lignin-derived compounds. The superior photocatalytic performance is attributed to three main factors: (1) The ability of PM6 to broaden MeIC's absorption range from 300 to 800 nm, allowing for effective utilization of visible light; (2) the synergistic interaction between PM6 and MeIC, which ensures compatible energy levels and a vast, evenly spread surface area, promoting charge mobility and extensive donor/acceptor interfaces. This synergy significantly enhances the generation and transport of carriers, resulting in a high production of free radicals that accelerate the decomposition of organic materials; (3) The deployment of PM6:MeIC on biomass-based carriers increases the interaction surface with the organic substances. Notably, PM6: MeIC showcases outstanding durability, with its degradation efficiency remaining between 84 % and 91 % across 100 cycles. This study presents a promising approach for designing advanced photocatalysts aimed at degrading common pollutants in papermaking wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass can be used as an energy source to thermochemical conversion processes to biocrude production. However, the supply and dependence on only one biomass for biocrude production can be an obstacle due to its seasonality, availability, and logistics costs. In this way, biomass waste and agroindustrial residues can be mixture and used as feedstock to the hydrothermal co-liquefaction (co-HTL) process as an alternative to obtaining biocrude. In this sense, the present paper analyzed the biocrude yield influence of the co-HTL from a quaternary unprecedented blend of different biomasses, such as sugarcane bagasse, brewer's spent grain (BSG), sludge from a paper recycling mill (PRM), and microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris). In this way, a simplex lattice design was employed and co-HTL experiments were carried out in a 2000 mL high-pressure stirred autoclave reactor under 275 °C for 60 min, considering 15% of feedstock/water ratio. Significant effects in each feedstock and their blends were analyzed aiming to increase biocrude and biochar yield. It was found that the addition of microalgae is only significant when considered more than 50% into the blend with BSG and PRM sludge to increase biocrude yield. • Unprecedented blend (microalgae, sugarcane bagasse, BSG, and PRM sludge) in co-HTL. • Highest biocrude yield of 51.7% using microalgae as the only feedstock. • Second-highest biocrude yield (29%) for BSG and PRM sludge (synergetic interaction). • BSG and PRM sludge can complement co-HTL feedstock in low microalgae availability. • E RoI higher than one for 50% of microalgae, 25.8% of BSG, and 24.2% of PRM sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The commercialization of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is encountering significant challenges due to the electrolyte incompatibility and poor mechanical properties of polyolefin separators, as well as the hazardous growth of lithium dendrites at the anode. Simultaneously, the development of safe and environmentally-friendly separators has become a central focus in rechargeable battery technology. In this study, we introduce a novel Janus separator (CP@SiO 2), featuring a composite structure with cellulose paper (CP) as the base layer and electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers as the top layer. The nanofibers are uniformly coated with mesoporous SiO 2 nanoparticles through hydrogen bonding. The CP@SiO 2 separator leverages its three-dimensional lithium-ion channels and rigid ceramic particles to enhance electrolyte retention and stabilize lithium metal anodes (LMA). Shielded by this separator, LMA exhibits an impressive cycling performance, enduring a current density of 2 mA cm−2 for 350 h without short-circuiting, effectively doubling the cycle life compared to conventional PP separators. Furthermore, the Li/LiFePO 4 cell utilizing the CP@SiO 2 separator demonstrates a high capacity of 101 mAh·g−1 at 5C, with 90 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles. This outstanding electrochemical performance is attributed to the compatible anode/separator interface and the effective inhibition of lithium dendrite growth. The research presented in this work capitalizes on a synergistic configuration design, offering a promising pathway towards the development of high-safety and advanced lithium-ion separators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective packaging solutions are pivotal in addressing sustainability challenges associated with food consumption. Sustainable packaging must not only reduce ecological impact but also ensure food quality preservation, minimize the risk of foodborne diseases, and contribute to mitigating the accumulation of plastic waste. While paper-based food packaging is environmentally friendly, it is susceptible to mold growth when exposed to specific humidity and temperatures, potentially leading to spoilage and safety concerns. This study introduces an innovative modeling approach employing survival analysis to estimate time to visible mold growth on paper-based materials used in food-contact packaging under varying environmental conditions. The objective is to establish an alternative statistical framework for assessing the impact of relative humidity and temperature on mold proliferation. This approach is particularly relevant to novel sustainable packaging materials in the food industry, especially when dealing with censored data. Survival heatmaps are developed to simplify the visualization of spoilage likelihood, measured by time to visible growth at a given confidence level. Although the survival model is proposed for paper-based materials, there are no theoretical limitations to its extension for use with other materials within and beyond the food industry. • Proposed survival heatmaps to simplify spoilage likelihood visualization. • Investigated spoilage characteristics of novel paper-based packaging. • Addressed challenges of censored data in mold growth modeling. • Proposed a conservative predictive model to assess spoilage timelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accompanying China's accession to the World Trade Organization, the rapid development of the Chinese economy has led to increasingly serious environmental issues. However, the inherent mechanisms underlying the impact of Environmental Information Disclosure (EID) policy and trade on the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises remain unclear in the context of the era's requirement for a resource-conserving and environmentally-friendly society. The pollution problem in the papermaking industry has received attention worldwide, and how to balance the environmental and development issues of papermaking enterprises is an urgent issue that needs to be solved in the academic community. This study explores the impact mechanisms of EID policy and trade on the environmental effects of enterprises from the perspective of financial constraints. Utilizing the PSM-DID model, the study investigates the moderating effects of financial constraints on the EID policy and import-export trade. The findings reveal that both external and internal financial constraints have negative, detrimental effects on the environmental effects of the EID policy and trade. These constraints impede research and development investment and technological upgrades, hinder productivity improvement, and hamper the realization of "regulatory and trade innovation effects". This study enriches our understanding of the mechanisms by which trade affects the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises and further identifies the impacts of Chinese EID policy and trade on pollution emissions by enterprises, providing a theoretical basis and practical foundation for the government in formulating financial, environmental, and trade policies. • Analyzing the environmental effects of Chinese paper enterprises from the perspective of financing constraints. • This study validated the research hypothesis using three micro databases. • This study decomposes the impact mechanism into three aspects: scale effects, technical effects, and structural effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp-paper industry is one of the main industrial sectors that produce massive amounts of residual sludge, constituting an enormous environmental burden for the industries. Traditional sludge management practices, such as landfilling and incineration, are restricted due to mounting environmental pressures, complex regulatory frameworks, land availability, high costs, and public opinion. Valorization of pulp-paper industry sludge (PPS) to produce high-value products is a promising substitute for traditional sludge management practices, promoting their reuse and recycling. Valorization of PPIS for biorefinery beneficiation includes biomethane, biohydrogen, bioethanol, biobutanol, and biodiesel production for renewable energy generation. Additionally, the various thermo-chemical technologies can be utilized to synthesize bio-oil, hydrochar, biochar, adsorbent, and activated carbon, signifying potential for value-added generation. Moreover, PPIS can be recycled as a byproduct by incorporating it into nanocomposites, cardboard, and construction materials development. This paper aims to deliver a comprehensive overview of PPIS management approaches and thermo-chemical technologies utilized for the development of platform chemicals in industry. Substitute uses of PPIS, such as making building materials, developing supercapacitors, and making cardboard, are also discussed. In addition, this article deeply discusses recent developments in biotechnologies for valorizing PPIS to yield an array of valuable products, such as biofuels, lactic acids, cellulose, nanocellulose, and so on. This review serves as a roadmap for future research endeavors in the effective handling of PPIS. [Display omitted] • Valorization of pulp-paper industry sludge is a sustainable option for getting waste to wealth. • Pre-treatment of pulp-paper industry sludge helps in yielding platform chemicals in the biorefinery scenario. • Pulp-paper industry sludge is a sustainable feedstock for renewable energy production. • Biochars derived from pulp-paper industry sludge exhibited excellent adsorption performance for metals removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass with ionic liquids (ILs) are considered as an advantageous approach for the preparation of carbonaceous materials. The commonly used imidazolium and pyridinium based ILs have drawbacks such as toxicity, resistance to biodegradation, high cost and viscosity. These issues can be mitigated by diluting ILs with water, although excessive water content above 1 wt% can reduce the solubility of biomass. This research aims to investigate the potential of pretreating wastepaper with a "fully green" ILs, amino acid-based IL with high water content, followed by pyrolysis without IL, in enhancing the properties of biochar. For this purpose, the paper was treated with an aqueous solution of IL cysteine nitrate ([Cys][NO 3 ]), and the IL was not involved in the pyrolysis process to prevent the formation of secondary gaseous pollutants. The findings revealed that the hemicellulose and mineral filler in the paper were eliminated during pretreatment, leading to higher carbon content but lower oxygen content. As a result, the biochar exhibited micropores of 0.42 cm3g-1 and a specific surface area of 1011.21 m2 g−1. The biochar demonstrated high adsorption capacities for Cd2+, enrofloxacin, bisphenol A, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline, with values of 45.20 mg g−1, 49.82 mg g−1, 49.90 mg g−1, 49.88 mg g−1, and 49.65 mg g−1, respectively. The proposed mechanism for the adsorption of enrofloxacin by the biochar primarily involves physical adsorption such as pore filling and electrostatic interactions, along with chemical adsorption facilitated by graphitic nitrogen. [Display omitted] • Amino acid-based IL with high water content removed the hemicellulose and minerals. • The specific surface area was four times of that of biochar without pretreatment. • More nitrogen was retained in the biochar and provided adsorption sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper mill Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) ash contains a mixture of alkali metal chloride (34.2 %) and sulfate (84.2 %) which has serious negative effects on the environment and makes it more expensive and constrained to dispose ESP ash. Therefore, handling and recycling ESP ash demands extra thought when disposing of it. Present study, aimed to separate chloride and sulfate from ESP ash using electrochemical membrane technology. Three different concentrations of ESP ash solution such as 200 g L-1, 320 g L-1 and 450 g L-1 were used as the electrolyte. Ti/TiO 2 –IrO 2 –RuO 2 and titanium (Ti) are used as anode and cathode respectively. Caustic and sulfate solutions were recovered at the respective compartments. The collected sulfate solution was dried by solar light to convert 99 % sulfate salts as confirmed by Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) analysis. Recovered sulfate salt was used for the dye fixing process, in which the colour fixing difference of ΔE value was about 2.10 and the strength of the dye was about 86.72 %. Therefore, the textile industry can repurpose the recovered sulfate salt for the dye fixing process. [Display omitted] • An electrochemical membrane process was adopted to treat the ESP ash slat. • Na2SO4, Cl2 and alkali were recovered in a single electrochemical process. • Double layer cation exchange membrane provided good current efficiency. • Recovered Na2SO4 was used in the dyeing process and ΔE is 2.10 and dye strength is 86.72 %. • Sulfate concentration does not affect the CEM in the electrochemical process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research assessed waste-based briquettes consumption compared to conventional fuels in the Andes. Laboratory tests were conducted together with on-field analysis in Colquencha (Bolivia). The laboratory study shows that the performances of briquettes are better in terms of PM2.5 (933.4 ± 50.8 mg kg−1) and CO emissions (22.89 ± 2.40 g kg−1) compared to animal dung (6265.7 ± 1273.5 mgPM2.5 kg−1 and 48.10 ± 12.50 gCO kg−1), although the boiling time increased due to the lower fuel consumption rate and firepower compared to shrubs. The social survey organized with 150 Bolivian citizens suggested that low-income households are not able to pay for an alternative fuel: about 40% would pay less than 4 USD per month, while methane use for cooking is positively correlated with the income level (r = 0.244, p < 0.05). On field analysis suggested that local cookstoves are not appropriate for briquettes combustion since indoor air pollution overcomes 30 ppm of CO and 10 mgPM2.5 m-3. On balance, local small manufactures can be the main target for selling waste-based briquettes to reduce shrubs and wood consumption. However, briquettes production costs seem not yet competitive to natural easy-to-obtain fuels (i.e., animal dung). The research encourages the use of cellulosic and biomass waste-based briquettes in the Andean area for cooking, heating, or manufacturing and strongly advises policy-makers to introduce economic incentives for the recovery of secondary raw materials. • Analysis of waste-based briquettes use in Andean areas were conducted. • Laboratory analysis, social surveys, and on field evaluations are the methods. • Briquettes can be employed for reducing about 30% of the conventional fuels. • The research encourages the employment of waste-based briquettes in the Andes. • Incentives to briquettes production and consumption should be introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Carbon quantum dots-graphite composite ink-based Screen-printed electrodes (CQDs/SPEs) were used to assemble a highly sensitive electrochemical aptasensor against chlorpyrifos (CPF). The aptasensor showed a broad linear range from 1 pM (0.445 ng/ml) to 500 nM (0.22 mg/ml) with a detection limit (LOD) 0.834 pM (0.37 ng/ml); sensitivity 21.39 μA pM−1 cm− 2 and with good linearity of R2 = 0.973. Moreover, the aptasensor's showed better selectivity among few other pesticides. Further, the aptasensor electrode showed high stability for five months when stored at 4 °C. In the final step, the aptasensor's ability to identify CPF in real samples was evaluated on spiked potato (Solanum tuberosum) extract samples. Potato extract spiked with CPF in the electrochemical aptasensing platform showed excellent linearity of R2 = 0.981. The developed aptasensor showed good response to without spiked potato extract with increasing volumes. Hence, the developed aptasensor demonstrated reasonable applicability in real food and agriculture samples. • Chlorpyrifos (CPF), an organophosphate pesticide, is known for detrimental effects on environment raising global health concern. • Electrochemical based disposable screen printed aptasensor is developed for the detection of chlorpyrifos pesticide. • The CQDs/SPE aptasensor was fabricated using carbon quantum dots (CQDs) through drop cast method. • The aptasensor exhibited a wide linear range (1 pM-500 nM) with LOD (0.834 pM) and high sensitivity (21.39 μA pM−1 cm− 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we design a binder GG-CA-GLY (abbreviation: GGC) for silicon negative electrode by guar gum as the backbone chain with self-healing function, combing and straightening the guar molecular chain of guar gum through the plasticizing effect of glycerol. The condensation reactions between the exposed hydroxyl sites of guar gum and the carboxyl groups of citric acid create a stronger hydrogen bond, so as to achieve the effect of self-healing and cope with the serious volume expansion effect of silicone-based materials. [Display omitted] • A easy polycondensation reaction is used to create a mechanically strong self-healing polymer (GGC). • GGC adhesives have excellent mechanical properties and facilitate rapid self-healing. • GGC@Si electrodes were prepared with excellent rate capability and higher cycling stability. • GGC adhesives have the ability to repair cracks and other damage on prepared silicon anodes, returning them to their original state. Silicon is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries with its superior capacity. However, the volume change of the silicon anode seriously affects the electrode integrity and cycle stability. The waterborne guar gum (GG) binder has been regarded as one of the most promising binders for Si anodes. Here, a unique steric molecular combing approach based on guar gum, glycerol, and citric acid is proposed to develop a self-healing binder GGC, which would boost the structural stability of electrode materials. The GGC binder is mainly designed to weaken van der Waals' forces between polymers through the plasticizing effect of glycerol, combing and straightening the guar molecular chain of GG, and exposing the guar hydroxyl sites of GG and the carboxyl groups of citric acid. The condensation reaction between the hydroxyl sites of GG and the carboxyl groups of citric acid forms stronger hydrogen bonds, which can help achieve self-healing effect to cope with the severe volume expansion effect of silicone-based materials. Silicon electrode lithium-ion batteries prepared with GGC binders exhibit outstanding electrochemical performance, with a discharge capacity of up to 1579 mAh/g for 1200 cycles at 1 A/g, providing a high capacity retention rate of 96%. This paper demostrates the great potential of GGC binders in realizing electrochemical performance enhancement of silicon anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Preparing new fluorescent materials for individualized and customized anti-counterfeiting applications to meet needs from the rapid development of e-commerce is of great significance. This paper reports the preparation of dynamic color-changing fluorescent polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) by constructing a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) pair between aggregation-induced emission (AIE) structures and photochromic structures. At first, methyl methacrylate (MMA) was used as the main monomer and tetraphenylethylene (TPE, a typical AIE structure) modified methacrylate (TPE-MA) and photochromic spiropyran (SP) modified methacrylate (SP-MA) as minor monomers were copolymerized to obtain the ternary copolymer PMMA-TPE-SP. Then, two types of PNPs based on this terpolymer was prepared via the reprecipitation method, with and without the addition of an amphiphilic polymer as the surfactant. The photophysical study shows that the fluorescence color of PNPs dynamically changes from blue to light violet and finally to red under UV light irradiation, a process that can be reversed under visible light. The PNPs were alternately irradiated with UV light and visible light for 10 cycles, which proved their good photoswitching reproducibility. The PNPs prepared with addition of surfactant were found to have stronger fluorescence and better stability. Finally, the photochromic fluorescent inks were prepared based on these PNPs. Several anti-counterfeiting scenarios and modes were designed, exhibiting excellent photochromic behavior on cellulose paper, even after 120 days of long-term storage. With simple equipment, desirable anti-counterfeiting effects with dynamic fluorescence color changing was achieved. This study demonstrated a promising hard-to-imitate anti-counterfeiting encryption strategy, which can achieve multiple outputs with simple operation and can be personalized and customized as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several countries have imposed either a ban or a tax on single-use plastic packaging, motivated by their contribution to marine plastic pollution. This may lead consumers to opt for similar unregulated substitutes, potentially undermining or even counteracting the intended effect of the policy instrument. The purpose of this study is to theoretically and empirically compare the environmental and welfare effects of the first-best Pigouvian taxes on both plastic bags and a substitute (paper bags), with two alternative second-best policy instruments: a tax on plastic products alone, and a common uniform tax on all packaging materials. The empirical analysis accounts for two different types of environmental externalities from the use of both bag types: marine pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. It also compares results for two countries, Denmark and the USA, which differ in the demand for plastic and paper bags. The theoretical analysis shows that a unilateral tax on plastic bags should equal the marginal environmental damage of plastic bags minus a fraction of the marginal environmental cost of paper bags, hence being lower than the Pigouvian tax. The optimal common tax should equal a weighted average of the marginal environmental damage of the two bag types and would be lower than the Pigouvian tax on plastics if the marginal external cost of plastic bags exceeds that for paper bags. The empirical analysis shows that for default parameters, the variation in tax level across the studied scenarios is small. It also shows that if Pigouvian taxes cannot be implemented, a common uniform tax on both bag types would result in a higher welfare gain than a tax on plastic bags alone. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the level of the second-best taxes and their associated environmental and welfare impacts are sensitive to assumptions regarding the littering rate and decay rate of plastic bags in the marine environment. • A separate tax on plastic bags leads to substitution towards unregulated products. • Both plastic bags and substitutes cause marine pollution and GHG emissions. • We estimate first and second-best environmental taxes on plastic and paper bags. • Pigouvian taxes on both plastic and paper bags yield the highest welfare effect. • A uniform tax on all bags yields higher welfare than a single tax on plastic bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Room temperature and ultrafast synthesis of sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) is presented. • The conversion of elemental sulfur to fluorescent SQDs can be completed in 10 min. • The prepared SQDs have a photoluminescence quantum yield as high as 23.6%. • The utilization of SQDs to sensitively detect tetracycline and Ca2+ ions is reported. • A sensitive logic gate sensor based on SQDs is constructed. The direct and rapid conversion of abundant and cheap elemental sulfur into fluorescent sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) at room temperature is a critical and urgent challenge. Conventional synthesis methods require high temperatures, high pressures, or specific atmospheric conditions, making them complex and impractical for real applications. Herein, we propose a simple method for synthesizing SQDs simply by adding H 2 O 2 to an elemental sulfur-ethylenediamine (S-EDA) solution at room temperature. Remarkably, within a mere 10 min, SQDs with a photoluminescence quantum yield of 23.6 % can be obtained without the need for additional steps. A comprehensive analysis of the mechanism has demonstrated that H 2 O 2 is capable of converting S x 2− ions generated in the S-EDA solution into zero-valent sulfur atoms through oxidation. The obtained SQDs can be utilized as a fluorescent probe for detection of tetracycline (TC) and Ca2+ ions with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.137 μM and 0.386 μM respectively. Moreover, we have developed a sensitive logic gate sensor based on SQDs, harnessing the activated cascade effect to create an intelligent probe for monitoring trace levels of TC and Ca2+ ions. This paper not only presents a viable approach for ultrafast and scalable synthesis of SQDs at room temperature, but also contributes to the efficient utilization of elemental sulfur resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cylindrical surface with Bragg-enhanced Fresnel reflectivity constructed from non-close-packed photonic crystals (NPCs) was designed for spectral selectivity and optical gain, which broke through the limitations of traditional Fresnel curved mirror with lowest central reflectivity and inability to perform spectral selectivity, and was conducive to expending the application of Fresnel mirror in the fields of signal transmission, optical measurement and instrument design. [Display omitted] According to the Fresnel theory, the reflectivity intensity of spherical and cylindrical convex surfaces decreases from their edge to center, and it is noteworthy and interesting for optical gain to study the enhancement of center reflectance. In this paper, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) − encapsulated cylindrical non-closed-packed photonic crystals (NPCs) composite with Bragg-enhanced Fresnel reflectance was designed for spectral selectivity and optical gain. Theoretically and experimentally, the periodically ordered structure of NPCs achieved high-reflection of light in photonic bandgap and high-transmission in other bands, which enhanced Fresnel reflectivity of the convex center to specific bands. Furtherly, the cylindrical NPCs hydrogel with stretchability was applied for the dynamic tuning of optical signals. The reflection peak of the PDMS-encapsulated cylindrical NPCs composite blue-shifted from 608 nm to 413 nm with 50 % tensile strain and achieved a rapid transition of structural color from orange to blue-violet in 60 cycles. The new kind of photonic crystals composite for optical gain and spectral selection broke through the limitations of traditional Fresnel curved mirrors with the lowest central reflectivity and inability to perform spectral selectivity, and have great significance and application prospects in fields of signal transmission, optical measurement, and instrument design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a CuSCN hole transport layer (HTL) is introduced between BiVO 4 and NiFeO x oxygen evolution cocatalyst (OEC) to form BiVO 4 /CuSCN/NiFeO x photoanode. Characterization and DFT calculations suggest that the high PEC performance is attributed to the incorporation of CuSCN as a HTL, which effectively facilitates charge transfer and accelerates the water oxidation kinetics, resulting in an enhanced PEC water splitting performance (5.65 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE). [Display omitted] • BiVO 4 /CuSCN/NiFeO x photoanode prepares by inserting CuSCN between BiVO 4 and NiFeO x. • The CuSCN promotes the transfer of holes from BiVO 4 to NiFeO x OEC. • The CuSCN exhibits enhanced OER activity and accelerates water oxidation kinetics. • BiVO 4 /CuSCN/NiFeO x photoanode achieves enhanced PEC water splitting performance. Modification of oxygen evolution co-catalyst (OEC) on the surface of bismuth vanadate (BiVO 4) can effectively improve the kinetics of water oxidation, but it is still limited by the small hole extraction driving force at the BiVO 4 /OEC interface. Modulating the BiVO 4 /OEC interface with a hole transfer layer (HTL) is expected to facilitate hole transport from BiVO 4 to the OEC surface. Herein, a copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) HTL is inserted between BiVO 4 and NiFeO x OEC to create BiVO 4 /CuSCN/NiFeO x photoanode, resulting in a significant enhancement of photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting performance. From electrochemical analyses and density functional theory (DFT) simulations, the markedly enhanced PEC performance is attributed to the insertion of CuSCN as an HTL, which promotes the extraction of holes from BiVO 4 surface and boosts the water oxidation kinetics. The optimal photoanode achieves a photocurrent density of 5.6 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (vs. RHE) and an impressive charge separation efficiency of 96.2 %. This work offers valuable insights into the development of advanced photoanodes for solar energy conversion and emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate HTL to mitigate recombination at the BiVO 4 /OEC interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Melamine-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for high-performance supercapacitor applications are described in this paper. Melamine (Me) is employed as an organic linker, and three metal ions cobalt, nickel, and iron (Co, Ni, Fe) are used as central metal ions to manufacture the desired MOF materials (Co-Me, Ni-Me, and Fe-Me). While melamine is an inexpensive organic linker for creating MOF materials, homogenous molecular structures can be difficult to produce. The most effective technique for expanding the molecular structures of MOFs through suitable experimental optimization is used in this work. The MOFs materials are characterized using standard techniques. The kinetics of the materials' reactions are investigated using attenuated total reflectance. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), powder X-ray diffraction (P-XRD), Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) studies verified the development of the MOFs structure. The surface morphology of the produced materials is investigated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The elements found in MOFs are studied via XPS analysis, energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX), mapping, and mapping. The materials' absorption characteristics were examined by the use of UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the materials is examined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); these materials are more stable, according to the findings, even at high temperatures. The electrochemical investigation determines the specific capacitance of the materials. The specific capacitance of Co-Me, Ni-Me, and Fe-Me in 3 M KOH electrolyte is 1267.36, 803.22, and 507.59F/g @ 1 A-1, according to the three-electrode arrangement. The two-electrode device maximizes power and energy density by using an asymmetrical supercapacitor in a 3 M KOH electrolyte. The power and energy densities of Co-Me, Ni-Me, and Fe-Me are 3650.63, 2813.21, and 6210.45 W kg−1, and 68.43, 46.32, and 42.2 Wh kg−1, respectively. According to the materials stability test, the MOFs are highly stable after 10,000 cycles. Preliminary results suggest that the materials are suitable for usage in high-end supercapacitor uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Engineering platinum-free catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with high activity and stability is essential for electrochemical hydrogen production. In this paper, we report the synthesis of cobalt-doped AlNi 3 /NiO (Co-AlNi 3 /NiO) electrode with three-dimensional nanoporous structure via chemical dealloying method. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Co-AlNi 3 /NiO can accelerate water adsorption / dissociation and optimize adsorption–desorption energies of H* intermediates, thus improving the intrinsic HER activity. Both the introduction of Co and Al can efficiently ameliorate the electronic density around Ni sites of NiO and AlNi 3 , which can effectively reduce the energy barrier towards Volmer–Heyrovsky reaction and thus synergistically promote the hydrogen evolution. Benefiting from the large electrochemical active surface area, high electrical conductivity and electronic effect, the nanoporous Co-AlNi 3 /NiO catalyst exhibits remarkable HER activity with an overpotential of 73 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline condition, outperforming most of the reported non-precious metal catalysts. The nanoporous Co-AlNi 3 /NiO catalyst can operate continuously over 1000 h at high current densities with a robust stability. This work provides a new vision for the development of low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts for energy conversion applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, Ni and NiFe LDH are coupled on a carbon cloth to synthesize flexible electrocatalysts with superhydrophilic interfaces. DFT calculations demonstrate that the formation of a unique heterostructure induce the redistribution of the surrounding electrons and increase the total density of states near the Fermi energy level, which optimized the Gibbs free energy for hydrogen adsorption. Under alkaline conditions, the HER overpotential is only 36 mv at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, which is fully comparable to noble metal catalysts. [Display omitted] The rational design of morphology and heterogeneous interfaces for non-precious metal electrocatalysts is crucial in electrochemical water decomposition. In this paper, a bifunctional electrocatalyst (Ni/NiFe LDH), which coupling nickel with nickel–iron layer double hydroxide (NiFe LDH), is synthesized on carbon cloth. At current density of 10 mA cm−2, the Ni/NiFe LDH exhibits a low hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) overpotential of only 36 mV due to the accelerated electrolyte penetration, which is caused by superhydrophilic interface. Moreover, an alkaline electrolyzer is formed and provide a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a voltage of only 1.49 V. It is confirmed by the density functional theory (DFT) that electron from the Ni layer is transferred to NiFe LDH layer, redistributing the local electron density around the heterogeneous phase interface. Thus, the Gibbs free energy for hydrogen adsorption is optimized. This work provides a promising strategy for the rational regulation of electrons at heterogeneous interfaces and the synthesis of flexible electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] In this paper, we have developed a simple and efficient sulfur-amine chemistry strategy to prepare a three-dimensional (3D) porous Ti 3 C 2 T x composite with large amounts of N and S terminal groups. The well-designed 3D macroporous architecture presents enlarged interlayer spacing, large specific surface area, and unique porous structure, which successfully solves the re-stacking issue of MXene during storage and electrode fabrication. It is the amount of concentrated hydrochloric acid added to the S-EDA (ethylenediamine)/MXene colloidal suspension that is critical to the formation of 3D morphology. In addition, N and S terminals on MXene could improve the adsorption ability of K+. Owing to the synergistic effect of the structure design and terminal modification, the N, S codoped three-dimensional porous Ti 3 C 2 T x (3D-NSPM) material shows a high surface capacitive contribution and rapid diffusion kinetics for K+ and Na+. As a result, the as-prepared 3D-NSPM delivers high reversible capacity (237 and 273 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 for PIBs and SIBs, respectively), superb cycling stability (84.9% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles at 1 A g−1 in PIBs and 74.0% capacity retention after 2200 cycles at 1 A g−1 in SIBs), and excellent rate capability (111 and 196 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 for PIBs and SIBs, respectively), which are superior to other MXene-based anodes for PIBs and SIBs. Moreover, the described strategy provides a new insight for constructing the 3D porous structure from 2D building blocks beyond MXene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pb SA -Cu/PC with a three-dimensional structure was demonstrated as an efficient CO 2 reduction catalyst to formate. Pb inhibited the formation of COOH*, reduced the energy barrier of rate determining step in the formate formation process, and achieved 97% high formate selectivity. [Display omitted] • Pb SA100 -Cu/CP catalyst is developed by an economical and low-energy method. • The FE formate is 97 % with a partial current density of 27.9 mA cm−2 at − 0.9 V. • The catalyst exhibits ultra-long stability for more than 60 h. • The synergistic action of Pb SA and Cu atoms lowers the RDS for CO 2 RR to fromate. • Single-atom Pb induces Cu charge redistribution and inhibits the formation of COOH*. Exploring highly selective and stable electrocatalysts is of great significance for the electrochemical conversion of CO 2 into fuel. Herein, a three-dimensional (3D) nanostructure catalyst was developed by doping Pb single-atom (Pb SA) in-situ on carbon paper (Pb SA100 -Cu/CP) through a low-energy and economical method. The designed catalyst exhibited abundant active sites and was beneficial to CO 2 adsorption, activation, and subsequent conversion to fuel. Interestingly, Pb SA100 -Cu/CP showed a prominent Faraday efficiency (FE) of 97 % at –0.9 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (vs. RHE) and a high partial current density of 27.9 mA·cm−2 for formate. Also, the catalyst remained significantly stable for 60 h during the durability test. The reaction mechanism was investigated by density functional theory (DFT), demonstrating that the doping Pb SA induced the electrons redistribution, promoted the formate generation, reduced the rate-determining step (RDS) energy barrier, and inhibited the hydrogen evolution reaction. The study aims to provide a new strategy for developing of single-atom catalysts with high selectivity and stability, which will help reduce environmental pressure and alleviate energy problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensors provide a convenient and high sensitivity method for early disease diagnosis. However, creating luminophore arrays relying on powerful ECL signals remains a daunting task. Porphyrin-centered metal organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit remarkable potential in ECL sensing applications. In this paper, based on a simple one-pot synthesis method, PCN-222@Ag NPs doped with CeO 2 was synthesized to enhance the ECL performance. Due to the strong catalytic ability of CeO 2 , the ECL signal strength of the new material PCN-222@CeO 2 @Ag NPs is much higher than that of the PCN-222@Ag NPs and PCN-222. The luminous properties of PCN-222@CeO 2 @Ag NPs become more intense and stable due to the excellent electronic conductivity of Ag NPs. Based on the fact that CuS@PDA composite can quench the ECL signal of PCN-222@CeO 2 @Ag NPs, we constructed a novel sandwich ECL immune sensor for the detection of phosphorylated Tau 181 (p-Tau-181) protein. The ECL sensor has a great linear relationship with p-Tau-181 protein concentration, ranging from 1 pg/mL to 100 ng/mL. The detection limit is as low as 0.147 pg/mL. This work provides new ideas for developing sensitive ECL sensors for the p-Tau-181 protein, the marker of Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Eco-design of a highly efficient Cr(VI) adsorbent with bimodal micro-/mesoporous structure. • Green synthesis approach utilizing Sorghum waste as a sustainable silica source for the adsorbent. • A one-pot synthesis method led to homogeneously distributed adsorption sites on the MI-Cl-FDU-12. • MI-Cl-FDU-12 demonstrated a high adsorption capacity of 416.9 mg g-1 at 313 K for Cr(VI) • MI-Cl-FDU-12 adsorbent revealed excellent regeneration performance by six consecutive cycles. This paper presents an eco-design approach to the synthesis of a highly efficient Cr(VI) adsorbent, utilizing a positively charged surface mesoporous FDU-12 material (designated as MI-Cl-FDU-12) for the first time. The MI-Cl-FDU-12 anion-exchange adsorbent was synthesized via a facile one-pot synthesis approach using sodium silicate extracted from sorghum waste as a green silica source, 1-methyl-3-(triethoxysilylpropyl) imidazolium chloride as a functionalization agent, triblock copolymer F127 as a templating or pore-directing agent, trimethyl benzene as a swelling agent, KCl as an additive, and water as a solvent. The synthesis method offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to the production of a so-called "green" adsorbent with a bimodal micro-/mesoporous structure and a high surface area comparable with the previous reports regarding FDU-12 synthesis. MI-Cl-FDU-12 was applied as an anion exchanger for the adsorption of toxic Cr(VI) oxyanions from aqueous media and various kinetic and isotherm models were fitted to experimental data to propose the adsorption behavior of Cr(VI) on the adsorbent. Langmuir model revealed the best fit to the experimental data at four different temperatures, indicating a homogeneous surface site affinity. The theoretical maximum adsorption capacities of the adsorbent were found to be 363.5, 385.5, 409.0, and 416.9 mg g−1 at 298, 303, 308, and 313 K, respectively; at optimal conditions (pH=2, adsorbent dose=3.0 mg, and contact time of 30 min), surpassing that of most previously reported Cr(VI) adsorbents in the literature. A regeneration study revealed that this adsorbent possesses outstanding performance even after six consecutive recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The key feature of living cells is multicompartmentalization for enzymatic reactions. Artificial cell-like multicompartments with micro domains are appealing to mimic the biological counterparts. In addition, establishing a sustainable, efficient, and controllable reaction system for enzymatic hydrolysis is imperative for the production of natural fatty acids from animal and plant-based fats. Reverse Janus emulsion microreactors, i.e. (W 1 + W 2)/O, is constructed through directly using natural fats as continuous phase and aqueous two-phase solutions (ATPS) as inner phases. Enzyme is confined in the compartmented aqueous droplets dominated by the salt of Na 2 SO 4 and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Enzyme catalyzed ester hydrolysis employed as a model reaction is performed under the conditions of agitation-free and mild temperature. Regulation of reaction kinetics is investigated by diverse droplet topology, composition of inner ATPS, and on-demand emulsification. Excellent enzymatic activity toward hydrolysis of plant and animal oils achieves 88.5 % conversion after 3 h. Compartmented micro domains contribute to condense and organize the enzymes spatially. Timely removal of the products away from reaction sites of oil/water interface "pushed" the reaction forward. Distribution and transfer of enzyme in two aqueous lobes provide extra freedom in the regulation of hydrolysis kinetics, with equilibrium conversion controlled freely from 14.5 % to 88.5 %. Reversible "open" and "shut" of hydrolysis is acheived by on-demand emulsification and spontaneous demulsification. This paper paves the way to advancing progress in compartmentalized emulsion as a sustainable and high-efficiency platform for biocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NIR-activated bacteria-killing efficiencies of chiral CuS NPs depended on the excitation light polarization and the chiral configuration enhanced photothermal efficiency. Chiral CuS NPs which adsorb on or aggregate outside the bacteria or even enter the bacteria would increase the ambient temperature quickly under NIR illumination through the photothermal effect, which leads to the inactivation of proteins of bacteria. [Display omitted] • Chiral CuS nanoparticles showed enhanced NIR-activated bacteria-killing effect compared with achiral CuS nanoparticles under the same conditions. • These chiral CuS nanoparticles showed obvious chirality-related antibacterial effect. • Photothermal bacteria-killing tests of chiral CuS NPs "sealed" in PDMS demonstrated the individual influence of photothermal effect. As the drawbacks of antibiotics in treating bacterial infections emerged, physical methods such as near-infrared-activated (NIR-activated) bacterial killing, have attracted great interests for their advantages of no resistance, short action time and few side effects. In this manuscript, NIR-activated bacteria-killing performance of chiral copper sulphide nanoparticles (L-/ d -CuS NPs) was investigated using linearly polarized light (LPL) and circularly polarized light (CPL) as illumination sources, respectively. Chiral CuS NPs showed enhanced NIR-activated bacteria-killing effect compared with achiral CuS NPs under the same conditions. Moreover, these chiral CuS NPs showed obvious chirality-related antibacterial effect: the bacterial killing was more efficient under CPL activation, and L- and d -CuS NPs had higher antibacterial efficiency under left circularly polarized light (LCPL) and right circularly polarized light (RCPL), respectively. The possible mechanism of bacteria-killing performance for chiral CuS NPs was discussed in detailed. Photothermal bacteria-killing tests of chiral CuS NPs "sealed" in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) demonstrated the individual influence of photothermal effect. These observations in this paper could provide ideas for the potential applications of chiral nanostructures with enhanced photothermal effect in efficient bacterial killing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient active sites at the hydrophilic grassy CuO electrode tend to produce H 2 in electrochemical CO 2 reduction reaction. To enhance the intrinsic catalytic activity, a metal-oxide heterogeneous interface was created via interfacial engineering modulation by loading Pd on CuO. The CuO/Pd electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical CO 2 reduction performance, with 54% Faraday efficiency at −0.65 V for CH 3 OH. [Display omitted] • The active site of the grass-like hydrophilic CuO electrode was verified to be oxide-derived Cu by the transition in wettability. • Pd loading on CuO by interfacial engineering both satisfies the reduction of CuO to Cu and also contributes to the increase of active sites. • The interfacial effect between CuO and Pd appreciably reduces the work function of CuO to promote CO 2 reduction. • The FE of CH 3 OH reach up to 54 % at −0.65 V over CuO/Pd-2. Copper-based catalysts have been extensively investigated in electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO 2) reduction to promote carbon products generated by requiring multiple electron transfer. However, hydrophilic electrodes are unfavourable for CO 2 mass transfer and preferentially hydrogen (H 2) evolution in electrochemical CO 2 reduction. In this paper, a hydrophilic cupric oxide (CuO) electrode with a grassy morphology was prepared. CuO-derived Cu was confirmed as the active site for electrochemical CO 2 reduction through wettability modulation. To enhance the intrinsic catalytic activity, a metal-oxide heterogeneous interface was created by engineering modulation at the interface, involving the loading of palladium (Pd) on CuO (CuO/Pd). Both the electrochemically active area and the electron transfer rate were enhanced by Pd loading, and significantly the reduced work function further facilitated the electron transfer between the electrode surface and the electrolyte. Consequently, the CuO/Pd electrode exhibited excellent excellent performance in electrochemical CO 2 reduction, achieving a 54 % Faraday efficiency at −0.65 V for methanol (CH 3 OH). The metal-oxide interfacial effect potentially improves the intrinsic catalytic activity of hydrophilic CuO electrodes in electrochemical CO 2 reduction, providing a conducive pathway for optimizing hydrophilic oxide electrodes in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 1D MWO 4 (M = Mn, Co, Cd) nanomaterials were synthesized by electrospinning method. • CoWO 4 nanotubes exhibited superior efficiency in degrading BPA under UV–Vis–NIR light. • The wide-spectrum responses mechanism for MWO 4 (M = Mn, Co, Cd) were explained by DFT. Broadening the absorption region to near-infrared (NIR) light is critical for the photocatalysis due to the larger proportion and stronger penetration of NIR light in solar energy. In the present paper, one-dimensional (1D) MWO 4 (M = Mn, Co, and Cd) materials synthesized by electrospinning technique, were studied by combining the density functional theory (DFT) with experiment results, which possessed the enhanced light absorption capability within the range of 200–2000 nm. It was proved that in the ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) region, the absorption bands of CoWO 4 and MnWO 4 samples were attributed to the metal-to-metal charge transfer mechanism, while the absorption of CdWO 4 sample may be referable to the ligand-to-metal charge transfer mechanism. In the near-infrared (NIR) region, the absorption of CoWO 4 and MnWO 4 primarily originated from the d-d orbital transitions of Mn2+ and Co2+. The photocatalytic experimental results showed that the degradation rates for bisphenol A (BPA) over CoWO 4 , MnWO 4 , and CdWO 4 photocatalysts under UV–Vis/NIR light irradiation for 140 min/12 h were 78.8 %/75.9 %, 23.8 %/21.3 %, 12.8 %/8.7 %, respectively. This research offers the novel insights into the precise construction of tungstate catalytic systems and contributes to the advancement of UV–Vis–NIR full spectrum photocatalytic technology, and lays a foundation for a cleaner and more environmental-friendly future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Co 2 N C with diatomic pair sites was successfully prepared. • Co 2 N C exhibited much faster degradation kinetic rate than Co 1 N C. • More ROS were generated by the catalysis of Co 2 N C. • DFT calculation further revealed the enhanced activity of Co 2 sites. A novel strategy for better catalytic performance in terms of precisely tuning the metal atom number of active centers is gradually getting attention. In this paper, the Co atom pair sites on N -doped porous carbon was engineered. The binuclear Co 2 site structure was identified by aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. As expected, the Co 2 N C display an outstanding Fenton-like catalysis activity in tetracycline degradation with turnover frequency exceeding 0.91 min−1 that is approximately 4 times higher than the conventional CoN 4 site. The EPR tests indicated that the ROS strength stimulated by the binuclear site was much stronger than that of single site. Theoretical density functional theory calculations reveal that the optimized adsorption configuration is the O1 of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) interacting with two Co atoms, leading to stronger interaction effect and electron transfer for PMS comparing to single atom sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels have garnered significant attention due to their unique swelling properties, biocompatibility, and stability, resulting in them being promising candidates for various applications, ranging from drug delivery to tissue engineering. However, traditional PAM hydrogels suffer from low strength and poor toughness, which limits their widespread use. In this study, based on the theory of filler-reinforced composites, we introduced ordered sulfonated polystyrene (SPS) particles into PAM hydrogels using electric field-assisted techniques. The effects of the geometric dimensions and filling concentration of SPS particles on thermal stability, swelling/deswelling behavior, and mechanical properties of composite hydrogels were investigated. When filled with ordered 100 nm SPS particles at a concentration of 2.0 g·L-1, the resulting SPS/PAM composite exhibited improved water retention capacity, as well as a fracture elongation of 316 % and a tensile strength of 23 kPa. These findings in the paper provide valuable insights into the understanding of PAM hydrogels and open up new avenues for the development of advanced hydrogel-based systems with enhanced performance and functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel porous Ni matrix with optimal pore structure and adequate mechanical property is successfully prepared by a modified spark plasma sintering progress, while a self-supporting HER electrode of Ni 3 Se 2 @Porous Ni is subsequently obtained via a facile one-step hydrothermal synthesis. Such the Ni 3 Se 2 @Porous Ni electrode has performed a superior conductivity, excellent catalytic activity and robust durability, which can be attributed to the strong covalent bonding between Ni 3 Se 2 and Ni matrix, abundant active sites of the vertically arranged nanosheets, as well as the metallurgically bonded metal skeleton, exhibiting a fascinating potential for the industrial application. [Display omitted] Developing efficient and durable self-supporting catalytic electrodes is an important way for industrial applications of hydrogen evolution reaction. Currently, commercial nickel foam (NF)-based electrode has been widely used due to its good catalytic performance. However, the NF consisting of smooth skeleton surface and large pores not only exhibits poor conductivity but also provides insufficient space for catalyst decoration and sufficient adhesion, resulting in inadequate catalytic performance and poor durability of NF-based electrodes. In this paper, a novel three-dimensional porous Ni substrate with multangular skeleton surface and small pore structure was prepared by a modified spark plasma sintering technique, and subsequently Ni 3 Se 2 @Porous Ni electrode with a large number of Ni 3 Se 2 nanosheets uniformly distributed on the surface was obtained by one-step in-situ selenization. The electrode exhibits outstanding conductivity and catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction, providing a low overpotential of 183 mV at a current density of 100 mA cm−2. Due to the strong interfacial bonding between Ni and Ni 3 Se 2 , the Ni 3 Se 2 @Porous Ni electrode shows strong durability, which can work stably at 85 mA cm−2 for more than 200 h. This work provides an effective strategy for the rational preparation of metal substrates for efficient and durable self-supporting catalytic electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The effects of destruction and reassembly of vesicular structure of niosomes as a result of purification by centrifugation. • Significant loss of the encapsulated cargo due to centrifugation. • Mechanism and energy landscape of niosome reassembly. • Elastic niosomes (ethosomes) as a way to decrease a destruction of nanocarriers in the mechanical fields and preserve the content of the water core. This paper presents, for the first time, evidence for vesicle destruction and payload loss at the stage of purification of niosome dispersions by centrifugation, an important operation in the assembly of vesicular materials. The ability of niosomes of different compositions to reassemble, i.e., to restore the vesicular structure after destruction in the field of centrifugal forces, was demonstrated by dynamic light scattering and fluorescence spectroscopy. The kinetics of reassembly of vesicular structures is determined by the strength of the centrifugal field and the composition of niosomes. In contrast to ternary compositions, where particle size and modality are essentially unchanged after redispersion of the precipitate resulting from centrifugation, niosome dispersions containing anionic dicetyl phosphate includes micron-sized particles after redispersion, which vary in size over a wide range throughout the observation period. The reassembly process is complicated by the presence of charge on the surface of the niosomes. Elastic niosomes - ethosomes have been synthesised which, due to the high deformability of the shells, are less susceptible to destruction in the centrifugal field and retain the contents of the aqueous core. Using the "energy landscape" approximation, it is shown that vesicular structures assembled during hydration and reassembled after their centrifugation occupy different positions in the energetic pathway of their preparation. The results obtained should also be taken into account when determining the entrapment efficiency, since this procedure uses centrifugation to separate the load. It is important to note that the physical stability of niosomes, which is usually considered in terms of the functional activity of particles, is manifest and should be considered at the material preparation stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general strategy is proposed to solve the problem of efficient and controlled removal of droplets from solid surfaces. Droplet departure size on magnetic responsive polydimethylsiloxane superhydrophobic microplates (MPSM) was significantly reduced compared to the static structure, resulting in a 60% increase in the efficiency of fog collection at 15 min to meet a wide range of fields. [Display omitted] Efficient removal of droplets from solid surfaces is significant in various fields, including fog collection and condensation heat transfer. However, droplets removal on common surfaces with static structures often occurs passively, which limits the possibility of increasing removal efficiency and lacks intelligent controllability. In this paper, an active strategy based on extrusion ejection is proposed and demonstrated on the magnetic responsive polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) superhydrophobic microplates (MPSM). The MPSM can reversibly transit between the upright and tilted state as the external magnetic field is alternately applied and removed. Under the magnetic field, the direction and trajectories of droplets departure can be intelligently controlled, demonstrating excellent controllability. More importantly, compared with the static structure where the droplet must reach a certain size before departure, droplets can be ejected at smaller sizes as the MPSM is tilted. These advantages are of great significance in many fields, such as a highly efficient fog harvesting system. This strategy of extrusion ejection based on dynamic surface structure control reported in this work may provide fresh ideas for efficient droplet manipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PO 4 3−-doping and Li 3 PO 4 -coating of dual modification of LiNiO 2 are achieved. • PO 4 3− doping improves the reversibility of crystal structure. • PO 4 3− doping induces surface structural transformation of the material. • Li 3 PO 4 coating could ameliorate the interface stability. Lithium nickel oxide (LiNiO 2) cathode materials are featured with high capacity and low cost for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries but suffer from severe structure and interface instability. Bulk doping together with surface coating has been proven to be an efficient approach to improve the inner structure and interfacial stability of the LiNiO 2 cathode material. Nevertheless, the role of anion doping seems to be quite different from that of cation doping, and a deep insight will be desirable for the structure design of the LiNiO 2 cathode material. In this paper, PO 4 3−-doped and Li 3 PO 4 -coating of dual modification of LiNiO 2 are achieved via a facile approach. It is demonstrated that the PO 4 3− anions are doped into the tetrahedron vacant sites of the crystal structure, alleviating the phase transition and improving the reversibility of crystal structure. Besides, the Li 3 PO 4 coating layer ameliorates the interface stability to restrain the side reactions. Therefore, the dual modification enhances overall structural stability of the material to provide excellent performance. Moreover, the consumption of the Li residues by the formation of Li 3 PO 4 coating layer, and the enlarged interlayer spacing of the crystal structure by PO 4 3− doping can facilitate the Li+ ions diffusion, resulting in a superior rate capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), cell-like synthetic micrometer size structures, assemble when thin lipid films are hydrated in aqueous solutions. Quantitative measurements of static yields and distribution of sizes of GUVs obtained from thin film hydration methods were recently reported. Dynamic data such as the time evolution of yields and distribution of sizes, however, is not known. Dynamic data can provide insights into the assembly pathway of GUVs and guidelines for choosing conditions to obtain populations with desired size distributions. We develop the 'stopped-time' technique to characterize the time evolution of the distribution of sizes and molar yields of populations of free-floating GUVs. We additionally capture high resolution time-lapse images of surface-attached GUV buds on the lipid films. We systematically study the dynamics of assembly of GUVs from three widely used thin film hydration methods, PAPYRUS (Paper-Abetted amPhiphile hYdRation in aqUeous Solutions), gentle hydration, and electroformation. We find that the molar yield versus time curves of GUVs demonstrate a characteristic sigmoidal shape, with an initial yield, a transient, and then a steady state plateau for all three methods. The population of GUVs showed a right-skewed distribution of diameters. The variance of the distributions increased with time. The systems reached steady state within 120 min. We rationalize the dynamics using the thermodynamically motivated budding and merging (BNM) model. These results further the understanding of lipid dynamics and provide for the first-time practical parameters to tailor the production of GUVs of specific sizes for applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel synthesis method of HCPs with more mesoporous and hetero atoms, which is through the incorporation of functional macromolecules. • Tetraphenylporphyrin zinc (TPP-Zn) doped HCP-based hard carbon (CTHCP) with stable structure was prepared by Friedel-Crafts reaction. • Uncovered the design rules of HC anode materials suitable for Li+/Na+ batteries and provided a new idea for the preparation of high-performance HC anode materials. Hyper cross-linked polymers (HCPs), as a key precursor of hard carbon (HC) anode materials, stand out because of their capacity for molecular-scale structural design and comparatively straightforward preparation techniques, which are not seen in other porous materials synthesized procedure. A novel synthesis method of HCPs is developed in this paper, which is through the incorporation of functional macromolecules, the structural control and heteroatom doping of the product has been achieved, thus augmenting its electrochemical performance in batteries. In this work, carbonized tetraphenylporphyrin zinc (TPP-Zn) doped HCP-based hard carbon (CTHCP) with stable structure was prepared by Friedel-Crafts reaction and carbonization by using naphthalene and trace TPP-Zn as monomers, dimethoxybenzene (DMB) as crosslinking agent and FeCl 3 as catalyst. The introduction of TPP-Zn, a functional macromolecule with unique two-dimensional structure, realized the pore structure regulation and N doping of the raw carbonized HCP-based hard carbon (CHCP). The results showed that CTHCP had higher mesoporous volume, N content and wider layer spacing than CHCP. In addition, CTHCP anode exhibited excellent Li+/Na+ storage performance, initial reversible capacity, rate performance and long cycle life. More amount of N -containing (N-5) active sites and mesoporous content in CTHCP anode was the main reason for the improvement of Na+ storage effect. While the increased interlayer spacing had a greater effect on the lithium storage capacity. This study uncovered the design rules of HC anode materials suitable for Li+/Na+ batteries and provided a new idea for the preparation of high-performance HC anode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Lithium ion capacitors (LICs) are a new generation of energy storage devices that combine the super energy storage capability of lithium ion batteries with the satisfactory power density of supercapacitors. The development of high-performance LICs still faces great challenges due to the unbalanced reaction kinetics at the anode and cathode. Therefore, it is an inevitable need to enhance the electron/ion transfer capability of the anode materials. In this paper, to obtain a superior-rate and high-capacity Ni 3 S 2 -based anode, highly conductive Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene sheets were introduced to sever as the carrier of Ni 3 S 2 nanoparticles and simultaneously an amorphous carbon layer which coats onto the surface of Ni 3 S 2 nanoparticles was in-situ generated by the carbonization of dopamine reactant. The as-synthesized Ni 3 S 2 /Ti 3 C 2 T x /C composite exhibits a high specific surface area (112.6 m2/g) because of the addition of Ti 3 C 2 T x that can reduce the aggregation of Ni 3 S 2 nanoparticles and the in-situ generated amorphous carbon layer that can suppress the growth of Ni 3 S 2 nanoparticles. The Ni 3 S 2 /Ti 3 C 2 T x /C anode possesses a remarkable reversible discharge specific capacity (626.0 mAh/g under 0.2 A/g current density), which increases to 1150.8 mAh/g after 400-cycle charge/discharge measurement at the same measurement condition indicating eminent cyclability, along with superior rate capability. To construct a superior-performance LIC device, a sterculiae lychnophorae derived porous carbon (SLPC) cathode with an average discharge specific capacity of 73.4 mAh/g@0.1A/g was prepared. The Ni 3 S 2 /Ti 3 C 2 T x /C//SLPC LIC device with optimal cathode/anode mass ratio has a satisfactory energy density ranging from 32.8 to 119.1 Wh kg−1 at the corresponding power density of 8799.4 to 157.5 W kg−1, together with a prominent capacity retention (95.5 %@1 A/g after 10,000 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Formulation of water/solvent-based invisible security inks for flexo/screen printing using synthesized FNH. • Photostable & rub resistant prints with difficult to replicate but easy to authenticate security features. • Rub-induced orangish yellow emission from fluorescent cyan prints when shined with 270–400 nm light. • Cyanish green fluorescence from both rubbed & unrubbed prints upon 420–480 nm illumination. • THF or NaOH/KOH sensitive & penetrating fluorescence from the printed & rear side. • Detailed ridge characteristics achieved using FNH to develop LFPs. Smart functional materials with captivating optical properties are of immense importance due to their versatile applicability in anticounterfeiting and forensic science. A fluorene-naphthalene Schiff base (FNH) that displays aggregation induced emission, mechanofluorochromism and excitation wavelength dependent fluorescence inherent to the pristine and ground samples is synthesized. Water/solvent-based invisible security inks for flexo/screen printing were formulated using FNH as a smart pigment to check the originality of documents/branded products etc. The prints with good photostability, adherence to substrate and rub resistance are invisible in daylight showcasing multiple non-destructive and destructive techniques to authenticate the document. The inked area on UV dull paper substrate exhibits a weak emission, which is observed by the forger under UVA light. However, the user can validate the authenticity of the document by rubbing the print with hard objects, especially using a metal coin or glass rod to perceive a human eye detectable intensification in the orange fluorescence under the same illumination source. The intensity of the orange fluorescence reverts to the original, which enables the reuse of the security document after originality check. Yet another nondestructive authentication method is to observe a cyan fluorescence from the print and orangish yellow fluorescence from the rubbed printed region when shined with a 270–400 nm light source, whereas a cyanish green fluorescence both from the unrubbed and rubbed regions of the print when illuminated with a visible light source ranging from 420 to 480 nm. An additional verification through a destructive technique is to perceive red and yellow fluorescence of the ink film upon contact with THF and NaOH/KOH, respectively and a penetrating red fluorescence from the rear side of the THF-exposed printed area of the paper. The multi-level security features that cannot be easily replicated by the forger but allows a simple and easy validation process by the user are unique to FNH, used as a single pigment in the inks. Further, the applicability of the ground FNH in forensic science is established to distinctly observe Level I to II details of latent fingerprints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modified carbon nitride nanozyme could realize biomimetic catalysis application for evaluation of total antioxidant capacity via self-cascade photocatalytic H 2 O 2 production. [Display omitted] The peroxidase mimics usually requires the addition of exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2), which greatly hinder their practical applications. Herein, through rational co-modification of multiple elements (potassium (K), chlorine (Cl) and iodine (I)), the modified carbon nitride nanomaterials (KCl/KI-CN) could serve as efficient bifunctional catalysts. The multiple elements doping and the incorporation of cyano groups (C N) are deemed to enhance their photocatalytic and peroxidase-like activity, respectively. Based on the photocatalytic function, H 2 O 2 can be produced continuously and steadily via two-electron oxygen reduction over modified carbon nitride under visible light irradiation. Subsequently, the KCl/KI-CN could catalyze the chromogenic substrate by the in-situ produced H 2 O 2. Taking advantage of the bifunctional properties of modified carbon nitride, we for the first time demonstrate a self-cascade catalytic process and apply successfully for the ascorbic acid (AA) detection and versatile total antioxidant capacity (TAC) evaluation. This paper not only prepares an efficiently bifunctional catalyst but also provides a new self-cascade photocatalytic H 2 O 2 production strategy for the peroxidase-like application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Specific alkaline cation effects control the area per headgroup of alkylester sulphates, which modifies the spontaneous packing of the surfactants. The resulting effective packing minimizes the total bending energy frustration and results in a Boltzmann distribution of coexisting pseudo-phases. These pseudo-phases constitute of micelles and other structures of complex morphology: cylindrical sections, end-caps, branching points, and bilayers, all in dynamic equilibrium. According to our model, excess of end-caps or excess of branching points lead to low viscosity, whereas comparable amounts of both structures lead to viscosity maxima. Relative occurrence of branching points and end-caps is the molecular mechanism at the origin of the salt-sensitive viscosity peak in the "salt-curve" (viscosity against salt concentration at fixed surfactant concentration). Up to now, and as indicated in former papers, this has been a pure model without microscopic verification. In this work, we introduce explicit counting of the number of coexisting pseudo-phases as observed by state-of-the-art cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). The model system used, i.e., sodium laurylethersulfate (SLES)/salt/water, is very common as part of cosmetic formulations. As added salts, we used Li+, Na+, K+, and Cs+ chlorides. In parallel to imaging, we measured the macroscopic viscosities of the different solutions. With cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM), we imaged a variety of morphologies (pseudo-phases) in the different aqueous surfactant/salt solutions: cylindrical micelles with end-caps, discs surrounded by "rims", entangled thread-like micelles with branching points, networks with gliding branching points, and bilayers. The relative chemical potentials of these morphologies could be approximated simply by counting the relative proportion of their occurrence. This simple multi-scale approach avoids any ad-hoc "specificity" assumption of ions, and is based on the bending energy model in an extended version of the Benedek "ladder model". It is capable of explaining and even quantifying the location of all viscosity peaks in the "salt-curves" for the different cations investigated, thus confirming the previously proposed model experimentally, and – thanks to cryo-TEM – for the first time on a microscopic scale. Moreover, this approach can also be applied when the added cations lead to newly observed pseudo-phases, such as discs and vesicles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that cryo-TEM is used, together with a mesoscopic model, to describe a macroscopic property such as viscosity and specific ion effects on it, without any a priori assumption about these effects. So, in total, we could a) confirm the predictions of the previously developed model, b) use cryo-TEM imaging and viscosity measurements to predict and find unusual morphologies when varying the cations of the added salt, and c) count the pseudo-phases in cryo-TEM micrographs to quantitatively explain the different nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Monkeypox is a zoonotic viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which belongs to the Poxviridae family of the Orthopoxvirus (OPXV) genus. Monkeypox is transmitted from animals to humans and humans to humans; therefore, the accurate and early detection of MPXV is crucial for reducing mortality. A novel graphene-based material, graphene quantum rods (GQRs) was synthesized and confirmed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). In this study, molybdenum oxide was electrodeposited and one-pot electrodeposition of MoO 3 -GQRs composite on carbon fiber paper (CFP) enabled by an antibody (Ab A29)/MoO 3 -GQRs immunoprobe was developed for the early diagnosis of MPXV protein (A29P). Several studies were conducted to analyze the MoO 3 -GQRs composite, and the prepared Ab A29/MoO 3 -GQRs immunoprobe selectively bound to the A29P antigen that was measured using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) analysis and impedance spectroscopy. The antigen–antibody interaction was analyzed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. DPV analysis showed a wide linear range of detection from 0.5 nM to 1000 nM, a detection limit of 0.52 nM, and a sensitivity of 4.51 µA in PBS. The prepared immunoprobe was used to analyze A29P in serum samples without reducing electrode sensitivity. This system is promising for the clinical analysis of A29P antigen and offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, ease of use, accuracy, and high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Defects were introduced in MIL-125 to narrow the forbidden band width. • Improved the surface acidity of material for efficient degradation of mixed VOCs. • Revealed the catalytic mechanism using in situ DRIFTS spectroscopy and GC–MS. In this paper, the effect of three monocarboxylic acids on MIL-125 synthesis was systematically investigated and the results were discussed in detail. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and nitrogen adsorption–desorption curves indicated that small molecule acids (acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid) affected the morphology of MIL-125 and induced lamellar pores and structural defects in the crystals. Thermogravimetric measurements confirmed the presence of acid-regulated defective metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). Electrochemical tests and density function theory calculations indicated that acid modulation could change the forbidden bandwidth of the material. The acid modification strategy effectively promoted the transfer of photogenerated electrons and enhanced the adsorption and activation of O 2 and H 2 O molecules, generating reactive radicals. The modified MOFs also showed excellent performance in the removal of mixed toluene and chlorobenzene. The degradation pathways of the mixture were analyzed by in situ infrared (IR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The mixture was converted to chlorophenolic intermediates in the presence of reactive oxygen species, further decomposed to form ethers and ethanol, and finally formed small molecules such as carbon dioxide and water. A feasible method was provided for the preparation of photocatalysts for the treatment of mixed VOCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]