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This study aims to improve the hydrophobicity of non-sizing Kraft paper (KP) surfaces using nanoparticle coating through the sparking process. The aluminium oxide nanoparticles (Al 2 O 3 NPs) were used for surface modification on KP through the sparking process, optimizing with varying sparking cycles (5–20 times), annealing temperatures (60–120 °C), and annealing times (1–3 h). Then, the Al 2 O 3 NPs treated KP were examined by XRD, FT–IR, SEM, EDX, and AFM, respectively. The water contact angle (CA) was used to examine the water-resistant properties of the treated KP. The treated KP with varying sparking cycles up to 15 times showed higher surface coverage and enhanced fine roughness surface on the treated KP. The fine roughness surface of KP induced hydrophobicity (126° of CA) on the surface of KP at 15 sparking cycles. Similarly, the higher CA for hydrophobicity surface on treated KP from varying temperatures and times of the annealing process was demonstrated at 120° for 3 h. Therefore, the treated KP with 15 times of sparking cycle, annealing temperature at 120 °C for 3 h was defined as the optimized condition in this work. Furthermore, the developments of hydrophobicity and superhydrophobicity on the treated KP with CA at 135 and 155° were observed for the non-sizing and sizing KP, respectively. This indicated that the increased surface roughness and reduced surface energy of the treated KP simultaneously delayed the water absorption times on the KP surface. Consequently, the nano-treating of Al 2 O 3 NPs using the sparking process shows the promising feature of inducing superhydrophobicity on the KP surface, which can produce a water-repellent corrugated box as an alternative packaging material. [Display omitted] • KP surface was successfully treated with Al 2 O 3 NPs by the sparking process. • The treatment (15-cycle, 120 °C, 3 h) improved KP water resistance properties. • SEM, mapping, EDX, and XPS results showed nano-coating of Al 2 O 3 NPs on KP surfaces. • Sparking on sizing KP surface contributed to superhydrophobicity (water CA of 155°). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant improvements in the activity of a carbon-based electrode for the electro-oxidation of aqueous sulfur dioxide were obtained by introducing surface oxygen functionalities through the anodization of carbon fiber paper (CFP) in sulfuric acid solution. Electrodes of varying surface oxygen content (2.9 atomic% to 25.6 atomic%) and relative proportion of different types of oxygen functional groups were obtained by changing the anodization potential and the concentration of sulfuric acid. The activity of the optimal electrode was quantified by exchange current density and charge transfer resistance, respectively. The exchange current density was about 2.17-times the pristine CFP electrode (17.6 × 10−4 μ A cm − 2 compared to 8.09 × 10−4 μ A cm − 2). The morphological and structural changes in the electrode on anodization were determined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman analysis. The chemical analysis of the electrode surface, done using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), showed a strong correlation between the electrode's activity and the ratio of the percentage of hydroxyl groups to the sum of percentages of epoxy and carbonyl groups. The electrode performed well in an accelerated stability test based on cyclic voltammetry for over 1000 cycles. [Display omitted] • Anodization of CFP induces high activity for SO 2 electro-oxidation. • The activity measured by exchange current density increases by 2.17 times. • Hydroxyl group promotes but expoxy and carbonyl group inhibit activity of electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scalable papermaking process was employed herein to manufacture cellulosic papers from native and phosphorylated cellulose microfibers (referred to as CMF and PCMF, respectively) impregnated with polyethyleneimine (PEI) for Direct Air Capture (DAC) applications. These papers were analyzed in terms of their physico-chemical properties using several techniques. The impact of PEI content on desorbing the co-adsorbed H 2 O and CO 2 from the air, as well as on the anisotropic microporous network, was explicitly analyzed. The results indicated that phosphorylation promotes the uptake of both CO 2 and H 2 O in the corresponding neat and PEI-loaded papers, reaching a superior CO 2 adsorption capacity of ∼0.7–0.9 mmol.g−1 for PCMF papers versus 0.07–0.3 mmol.g−1 for CMF papers. Furthermore, the CMF and PCMF papers exhibited H 2 O adsorption capacities in the range of 1.5–1.8 mmol.g−1 and 2.2–3.8 mmol.g−1, respectively. This work further highlights the combined role of phosphorylation and favorable PEI impregnation in tuning the cellulose CO 2 adsorption properties under humid conditions, facilitating the rapid release of the adsorbed CO 2 under mid conditions. [Display omitted] • Manufacturing of scalable solid cellulosic papers with amine functionalities and enhanced carbon capture. • Microstructural and chemical characterization of amine functionalized paper with various amine ratios. • Valorization of Alfa biomass in Carbon capture applications. • The combined role of phosphorylation and PEI impregnation in tuning the H 2 O and CO 2 co-adsorption properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the challenge of irregular morphology, the impact of compressed carbon fiber paper (CFP) on fuel cell performance and durability is intricate. As a carbon-carbon composite, the internal contact state of CFP directly determines its mechanical and physical properties. In this paper, fiber distribution and intersection of uncompressed CFP are achieved by X-ray computed tomography. Then we established an analytical model of bulk resistance based on the electron transfer path and provided a function to describe the internal contact state with strain. The results imply that the increasing number of electron paths and the variation of the contact state are the main factors for the decrease in bulk resistance under compression. The turning points in the contact state curve divide the range of pressure into fiber contact, elastic-plastic deformation and fiber fracture region, which can be used to assess the mechanical properties of CFP and determine the optimal pressure for fuel cell assembly. [Display omitted] • Fiber distribution and intersection of uncompressed CFP is given. • The effect of contact resistance between fibers on bulk resistance is evaluated. • The structural information to electric and mechanical properties is connected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel CuS grafted PEDOT:PSS conducting paper-based electrochemical immunosensor has been successfully fabricated for the detection of EpCAM antigen. Electrical conductivity is further improved by doping the CuS@PEDOT:PSS/WP electrode with different organic solvents such as N,N-dimethyl formamide (DMF), N,N-dimethyl acetamide (DMA), ethylene glycol (EG) and dimetyl sulfoxide (DMSO). It is observed that DMSO doped conducting paper shows the highest conductivity (6.1 × 10−2 S/cm) among all these solvents. This low cost, biodegradable electrochemical paper-based immunosensor (BSA/anti-EpCAM/EP) possesses a broad linear range from 0.01 pg/mL to 1000 ng/mL for EpCAM antigen detection. The immunosensor is found to have high sensitivity of 104.31 μA pg−1 mL. This conducting paper based immunosensor is further used to detect EpCAM antigen in human serum samples, thereby confirming a cost effective clinical tool over other costly conventional techniques. • An electrochemical paper-based immunosensor has been designed using CuS and PEDOT:PSS. • This low cost and flexible platform may be a promising candidate over other costly conventional electrodes. • It exhibits high sensitivity of 104.31 μA pg−1 mL in broad range of 0.01 pg/mL to 1000 ng/mL, for EpCAM detection. • The clinical applicability and validity has been checked with human serum sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a highly porous granular activated carbon (AC) from the biowaste of hen egg-shell membrane (HEM) for the detection of relative humidity (RH) using cellulose paper as substrate. As a novel strategy, the present AC is prepared through solvent-free thermal activation at high temperature in N 2 atmosphere. No other chemical or surfactants were used for activation. The present AC derived from HEM exhibits both microporous and mesoporous structure with good sorption properties as exposed by TEM and BET studies. Accordingly, the adsorptivity of present AC is envisioned to act as an effective humidity sensor. The sensor response to RH varied from 10 to 90% shows the rapid response and recovery times (4/14 s). The high water uptake of highly porous HEM derived AC with Nafion improves the ionic conductivity (through protonation) at low to high humid air. Furthermore, the present sensor enables to detect the modulation of moisture air from user's speech and breath from the perspective of real-time monitoring. The salient features of this eco-friendly sensor is its high sensitivity, reliability, and rapid response that makes it a promising candidate for flexible sensor devices. [Display omitted] ⁃ Surface modified granular activated carbon (GAC) was prepared and coated on paper substrate. ⁃ As a novel strategy, two-step process of activated carbon was used without any chemicals and toxic surfactants ⁃ It was revealed that the surface of GAC is filled with microporous structure. ⁃ The present sensor was utilized for detecting relative humidity in both environmental chamber and human breath. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the development of a novel paper-based electrochemical device modified with pure and nickel-doped TiO 2 nanocrystals and graphene oxide to enhance its ability to detect ascorbic acid (AA). The use of nanomaterials in the fabrication of the sensor provides a high surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to an increase in the sensitivity and selectivity of the device. The nanomaterials were synthesized, and a combination with the best properties was selected for detecting AA. The morphological, structural, and electrical properties of the nanomaterials in the paper device were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy (Raman), and cyclic voltammetry (CV), respectively. The sensor's performance was evaluated through various experiments, including cyclic voltammetry, to measure its sensitivity and selectivity in detecting AA. The results indicate that adding Ni-doped TiO 2 nanocrystals improves the sensor's sensitivity while incorporating graphene oxide enhances its selectivity. Furthermore, the sensor's performance was compared to that of other commonly used sensors, and it was found to be highly sensitive and selective. Therefore, this paper-based electrochemical sensor, modified with nanomaterials, shows great potential for detecting AA and other applications, such as environmental monitoring and medical diagnostics, due to its high sensitivity and selectivity, low cost, and ease of use. • The modification with nanomaterials enhances the sensitivity and selectivity. • The paper-based platform is cost-effective, portable, eco-friendly, and suitable for point-of-care applications. • The study demonstrates the synergy between nanomaterials. • Increasing nickel concentration improves electrical properties, however, high concentrations worsen them. • The device also has potential implications for the environmental monitoring of C Vitamin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the delignification of Eucalyptus camaldulensis fibers by the kraft chemical process using sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide as fillers. To optimize the levels of factors influencing pulp yield and pulp content, a response surface approach with a central composite plane was used. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis were used to characterize the structure and thermal properties of cellulose fiber. Then, a dynamometer, a dechirometer, and an eclatometer adamel were used to evaluate the physico-mechanical properties (breaking length, tear resistance, and resistance to burst) of the paste. The results show that FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the structure of the cellulose fiber; the crystallinity index is 76.35%, the maximum degradation temperature is 368 °C and the kinetic energy of activation (75.45 kJ.mol -1) according to thermogravimetric studies. Subsequently, for the predicted optimal pulping conditions, the concentration of NaOH was 18.8% and 13.40% Na2S at 105 °C for 45 min. Finally, the results obtained for the evaluation of the papermaking properties of fibers during refining showed that the breaking length is 34% (2975 m–1958 m) with a sulfide concentration of 0%–30%, respectively, and that when the refining intensity is increased to 45°SR, the rupture length (5997-4088 m) decreases by approximately 31% under the same conditions. Then, the tear strength is 37.5% (53-33.1), the sulfide concentration is 0%–30%, and the refining intensity is 20°SR; the increase in the latter leads to a reduction in the tear index of approximately 19% (50-40.6) under the same conditions. Finally, the bursting index is 38.5% (18.4-11.3) at identical sulphide concentration and refining intensity, but the increase in the latter leads to a slight decrease in the burst index (37.7-23.6) which is about 37.40%. The results suggest that the valorization of Eucalyptus fibers for the production of well-delignified, high-yield, and resistant pulp is a promising approach. This research qualifies eucalyptus fiber as a potential reinforcement in composite materials. • The kraft chemical process produces better extraction and quality of the cellulose. • FTIR and X-ray analysis confirmed that the fibers are rich in cellulose (76.35%). • TGA analysis indicated that the EC fibers are thermally stable until 368 °C. • The refining intensity improves the physico-mechanical properties of the cellulose fiber. • This research qualifies EC fiber as a potential reinforcement in composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly efficient, flexible and cost-effective ammonia (NH 3) gas sensor is developed on a biodegradable paper substrate. The polyaniline (PANI) film as an active sensing material was deposited by a simple in-situ polymerization method and optimized for NH 3 detection. The PANI film was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) for structural and morphological properties. The sensor was tested for its efficiency to detect the NH 3 gas over the concentration range of 12–1000 ppm at room temperature. The sensor showed excellent repeatability, stability and selectivity towards NH 3 detection. At concentrations of 12 ppm (lower level), 200 ppm (intermediate level), and 1000 ppm (higher level), the sensor exhibited effective response values of 3.60, 6.85, and 9.33, respectively. The sensor exhibited a quick response time of 30–9 s when subjected to 12–1000 ppm of NH 3. The sensor can detect ammonia gas in real-time, which makes it useful for identifying rapid changes in NH 3 concentration. The sensor response was reduced by 5.5% towards 200 ppm NH 3 despite a significant variation in relative humidity from 20% to 80%. Based on these results, our flexible PANI sensor is a viable option for efficient and cost-effective on-site NH 3 detection. [Display omitted] • We fabricated a room temperature operational, highly sensitive and selective polyaniline based ammonia gas sensor. • The sensor is fabricated over the bio-degradable paper substrate which makes it flexible and cost-effective. • The sensor exhibited a linear response with increasing NH 3 concentration along with excellent repeatability and stability. • The effect of relative humidity on the sensor response has been thoroughly investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By these comments we would like to bring attention of the scientific community to erroneous results reported in the commented paper on the double perovskite "Sr 2 FeVO 6 ". We showed that the claimed compound does not exist (at least, when prepared at ambient pressure and in air) either in the double perovskite modification or any other modifications. We showed that a mixture of Sr 3 (VO 4) 2 , cubic perovskite SrFeO 3− δ , and SrFe 12 O 19 was obtained in the commented paper instead. The observed room-temperature ferromagnetic properties are most probably originated from the presence of ferrimagnetic SrFe 12 O 19. • A "Sr 2 FeVO 6 " perovskite was attempted to synthesize in air. • A mixture of Sr 3 (VO 4) 2 , SrFeO 3− δ , and SrFe 12 O 19 was obtained. • SrFe 12 O 19 ferrimagnet is responsible to room-temperature magnetic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we wish to report highly selective sensing of picric acid (PA), one of the primary explosive ingredients as well as a well-known environmental hazard in 100 % water medium. For the said purpose, radiolytically synthesized blue photoluminescent PEGylated silicon oxide nanocomposites (PEG@SiONCs) with ∼49 % quantum efficiency (QE) were used as fluorescence probe. The limit of detection (LOD) of PA was determined to be ∼0.16 μM in the 2–85 μM range. Substantial reduction in blue photoluminescence of PEG@SiONCs, and shift in the emission colour from blue towards green in presence of specific concentrations of PA, are the interesting highlights of the present work. This colour change can be utilized to confirm the presence of PA in the sample. Mechanistic investigations involving temperature-dependent steady-state photoluminescence, and PA concentration-dependent lifetime studies revealed inner filter effect (IFE) based photoluminescence quenching mechanism. In addition, the interference studies carried out in the presence of 21 other organic/inorganic compounds demonstrated the highly selective sensing of PA by PEG@SiONCs. The PA sensing ability of the nanocomposites was also tested in the pH window ranging from 2 to 12. Meanwhile, paper strips were prepared using PEGylated SiONCs, and samples containing various metal ions and organic compounds were tested to examine their suitability for real-time detection of PA. [Display omitted] • PEG@SiONCs showed highly selective PA sensing in 100 % water medium. • NCs prepared by green radiolytic approach using in situ produced.•OH radicals • IFE attributed for PA sensing with LOD as 0.16 μM in 2–85 μM range. • Interference tested in presence of 21 organic/inorganic compounds & 13 metal ions. • PEG@SiONCs coated paper strip developed for direct monitoring of PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, an inkjet printed paper electrode (PPE) decorated with graphene (Gr)-silver (Ag) nanocomposite was exploited as an electrochemical sensing probe for analysis of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in environmental water samples. In this work, 4% Gr-Ag nanocomposite ink (NI) was prepared in ethanol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol in the ratio of 50:45:5, which possess surface tension and viscosity of 36 mN m−1 and 11 mPa s, respectively. The office inkjet printer was employed to print formulated Gr-Ag NI on digital photo paper, followed by sintered at 200 °C for 30 min to make effective conducting tracks for the sensing of 4-NP. Gr-Ag NI-based PPE was used as a working electrode in cyclic voltammetry. The working principle of detection is based on the electrocatalytic reduction process of 4-NP on the electrode surface. A good linearity range of 3.125–100 μM was observed, achieving a detection limit of 2.7 μM to measure 4-NP. Thus, the developed PPE holds considerable potential and offers an economical, biodegradable, and user-friendly sensor for future applications in the monitoring of 4-NP in environmental water samples. [Display omitted] • Printed paper electrode (PPE) with graphene (Gr)-silver (Ag) was used as electrochemical sensing for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). • Inkjet printer was employed to print formulated Gr-Ag NI on photo paper and sintered at 200 °C for 30 min to make electrode. • Gr-Ag/PPE was used as a working electrode in cyclic voltammetry for 4-NP determination. • Gr-Ag/PPE provides a low cost, decomposable, and user-friendly sensor for monitoring of 4-NP in environmental water sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we developed a facile and effective strategy to fabricate superhydrophobic paper based on micro-nano structure by the synergistic effect of nanoparticles and microporous made by breath figure method, which realized the in-situ self-assembly and integration of amphiphilic copolymer of Poly(St-co-HEMA), nano silica particles (SiO 2) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Furthermore, the chemical composition of copolymer, surface morphology and wettability were well characterized by FTIR, 1HNMR, GPC, SEM and water contact angle measurements, respectively. The molar ratio of St to HEMA reached 15:1 and the concentrations of SiO 2 achieved 15 mg/ml were identified to be the most effective system, which possessed outstanding water repellency with a CA of 165° and a SA of 2° and good self-cleaning ability. Besides, the as-prepared paper maintained the repellency to water under extreme conditions, including low-high temperature, strong acidic or alkaline solutions, ultrasonic treatment and cyclic sandpaper abrasion. Importantly, the superhydrophobicity paper could be utilized as effective functional nanomaterials for the separation of water-oil mixture with efficiency above 90% and repeatable for at least 20 times. • A facile method to fabricate superhydrophobic paper by breath figure method and nanoparticles. • The fabricated superhydrophobic paper showed excellent durability and stability. • The fabricated superhydrophobic paper exhibits excellent oil-water separation efficiency and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early identification of ovarian cancer improves treatment options & survival rates. An electrochemical paper analytical device (ePAD) was reported in this study for detecting Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), an ovarian cancer biomarker. This research aims to create a quick nano-biosensing approach to recognize deadly ovarian cancer (OC) at an initial phase. The suggested ePAD has numerous positive characteristics, including simple, low-cost, repeatable, & disposable. The ePAD's working electrode contains silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, aptamers have improved the biosensor's functionality. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FTIR analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis spectroscopy, & Zeta potential test were utilized to evaluate the silver nanoparticles' morphological, optical, elemental content, and phase analyses. This aptamer-modified ePAD helps amplify the designed platform's signal to detect PDGF. The interaction of aptamer & PDGF was discovered by lowering the current created by the contact with methylene blue (MB), an anionic indicator. The designed sensor demonstrated an optimum response & broad linearity of 0.01–10.0 μg/ml for PDGF, with 0.01 μg/ml of limit of detection (LOD). [Display omitted] • The developed sensor showed good sensitivity as well as reproducibility. • A chemically synthesized and very well characterized silver-based nanoparticles were utilized. • Cross-reactivity was confirmed by utilizing Urea. • The constructed electrochemical sensor worked efficiently in artificial serum. • This sensor could be used for detecting ovarian cancer biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a flexible nano-composite material which is not only impermeable to low-polar oil, but also has the ability of daytime radiation cooling, remains a huge challenge for both academia and industry. By modifying the fiber network of the dust-free paper using nano-ZnO particles (ZnO-DF), we strategically designed and demonstrated dual capabilities of superhydrophilicity/superoleophobicity and daytime radiant cooling for the flexible cellulose nano-composite simultaneously. A superior surface with superhydrophilic/superoleophobic (oil contact angle up to 159° and water contact angle down to 0°) was attained by regulation of surface energy components and roughness. Furthermore, the materials revealed outstanding corrosion and mechanical damage resistance, 152,788 L m−2 h−1 high permeation flux and >99.2% continuous and efficient oil-water separation performance. In addition, a cooling effect of about 5.6 °C of ZnO-DF paper could be achieved by cooperative function of both radiative cooling and sweat evaporation. It is expected that the ZnO-DF paper is promising for the thermal management of wearable products integrated with passive radiant cooling, phase change cooling (e.g., sweat evaporation) and large-scale industrial oil-water separation. [Display omitted] • A novel and stable flexible cellulose "ZnO-DF paper" nanocomposites were fabricated. • Nanocomposites have multi-functions covering superhydrophilic/superoleophobic and passive radiant cooling. • ◆Cetane-water mixture separation efficiency is up to 99.2%, and the extremely high water permeation flux up to 152,788 L m−2 h−1. • 5.6 °C of moist ZnO-DF paper could be achieved by cooperative function of both radiative cooling and sweat evaporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) were prepared using pyrolysis, with citric acid and urea as the carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, to be used for Cu2+ ion detection in a paper-based ECL sensor. Existing methods for Cu2+ detection require expensive equipment, specialized experimental chambers, or complex sample pretreatment procedures, which limit their functionality. Using first principles, the electronic and optical properties of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and N-GQDs were calculated and analyzed. The N-GQDs showed clearer green fluorescence under long-wave ultraviolet light and a better, more stable electrochemiluminescence (ECL) performance. Using first principles, the electronic and optical properties of the GQDs and N-GQDs were calculated and analyzed, and A theoretical mechanism for the observed ECL enhancement in the N-GQDs was proposed. A paper-based ECL sensor with N-GQDs was then developed, using a screen-printing technique, to detect Cu2+ ions. The results showed that the ECL intensity of the sensor increased as the Cu2+ ion concentration increased, and the sensor demonstrated a linear detection range of 0.01–1000 μM. Overall, the sensor exhibited excellent ECL stability, reproducibility, and selectivity. This simple, inexpensive, and effective monitoring technique can be used to detect Cu2+ to prevent negative effects on human health and the environment. • Simple and effective synthesis of N-GQDs using citric acid and urea. • Calculation of electronic and optical properties by DFT simulations. • Detection of Cu2+ ions by N-GQDs based on paper-based ECL sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of conductive inks has increased in recent years, especially for applications in electronic devices. Inks can be applied by spraying on the IoT chips and forming a shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI). This technology is called conformal shielding, which reduces EMI on the component. Micro and nanoparticles of copper or silver are often used in the composition of the inks, but the high cost of silver and the oxidation of copper limit the application. Another option is using particles with a copper core covered by silver (Cu–Ag), as it overcomes both limitations of the pure metals mentioned. So, there is an opportunity to use these conductive inks as an alternative to traditional EMI shielding methods such as metal cans, sputtering coating, and electroless nickel. Therefore, this work synthesized Cu–Ag particles to use in a conductive ink applied by spray coating. The film's resistivity and shielding effectiveness (SE) were measured. The morphology, size, and chemical composition of the particles were evaluated. The particles presented an irregular shape with complete and partial coverage of silver over copper. The ink showed an electrical resistivity of ∼10−04 Ω cm at 200 °C in sintering. It was also tested on different substrates with better adhesion to PET. The shielding efficiency was −44 dB according to the ASTM d4935 norm. A painting on the chips with a low-thickness film covering all modules demonstrated suitability to conformal shielding. • Achieved copper-silver production via a straightforward two-step chemical synthesis in a water-based solution. • We developed an innovative spray coating method to apply an alternative conformal shielding to electronic chips. • We employed a coaxial method aligned with the ASTM d4935 standard to measure the shielding effectiveness of the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this contribution, we demonstrate the synthesis of hydrazone-linked COF-Paper composites (namely COF-Paper1 and COF-Paper2) constructed from two monomers of benzene-1,3,5-tricarbohydrazide (Bth) and dimethoxyterephthal-aldehyde (Dma) or 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalaldehyde (Dha) via in-situ growth method using filter paper as a matrix. Interestingly, 2D COFs paper composites display excellent luminescence in the solid-state, and the as-synthesized COF-Paper1 and COF-Paper2 can be used as turn-off fluorescence sensors to visually detect Fe3+ ions and UO 2 2+ ions by the naked eye, respectively. Moreover, the visible limit of detection for Fe3+ and UO 2 2+ was 5.6 ng cm−2 and 27 ng cm−2, respectively. XPS and FT-IR results reveal that resulting COF-Papers have significant coordination ability toward target metal ions. This effective coordination induces electron transfer from the electron-rich building module to the electron-deficient metal ion, resulting in the fluorescence quenching process. This work not only provides a methodology to grow and assemble 2D COFs into large size ensembles but also paves a new pathway for visual detection of target metal ions. • Two COF-Paper composites have been constructed via in situ growth method. • The resulting 2D COFs paper composites with excellent luminescence properties. • The synthesized COF-Papers can specifically interact with iron ions or uranyl ions. • The COF-Papers can be used as a sensor for visual detection of target metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green electronics devices based on nanocellulose fiber are acquiring increasing reorganization attributing to their excellent thermal stability (thermal degradation temperature at 370 °C), flexibility, and transparency (90% at 600 nm wavelength). Electronic and optoelectronic devices from cellulosic substrate have received thriving interest due to the unique properties, such as bendability and foldability (±180° folding). Nanocellulose is a fascinating material originating from woody (Softwood, Hardwood), non-woody (Sisal, Coir, Cotton), and bacterial sources. Mechanical isolation methods ensure better fibrillation of nanocellulose fiber. However, higher energy consumption is a major limitation to be tackled. Pretreatment facilitates lower energy demand and invokes irreversible changes in the fiber. Pretreatment accelerates the bonding potential by altering the size and morphology of nanocellulose fiber. This review summarizes the current fabrication methods of transparent paper from cellulose fiber and applications in transparent nanopaper devices such as transistors, touch sensors, electro chrome devices, solar cells. [Display omitted] • Cellulosic materials are getting more and more focus in recent decades due to their non-toxicity and biodegradability. • Flexible printed electronics are prominent because of low rate along with the roll-to-roll manufacturing capability. • Transparent nanocellulose paper contributes to diverse applications, like flexible electronics and packaging. • Review summarizes the current fabrication methods and applications in transistors, touch sensors, solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors of the title paper (Mater. Chem. Phy. 205 (2018) 138–146) claimed to have grown for the first time a new alkali metal borate with formula Na 6 [B 4 O 5 (OH) 4 ] 3 ·8H 2 O (I) by slow evaporation of an aqueous solution containing NaOH, H 3 BO 3 and C 3 H 4 O 4 in 3:1:1 mol ratio. In this letter to the Editor, many points of criticism concerning the crystal growth, structure characterization and interpretation of the spectral and thermal data of I are described to prove that it is improperly characterized. The most intense line in the powder pattern of tincalconite is the (303) reflection. [Display omitted] • Crystal growth of Na 6 [B 4 O 5 (OH) 4 ] 3 ·8H 2 O (I) is critiqued. • Experimental data of I are inconsistent with the proposed formula. • I is an improperly characterized material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible pressure sensor has important applications in wearable electronic system. However, most reported flexible pressure sensors still face problems such as expensive raw materials, complex preparation processes, and narrow pressure detection ranges. Inspired by low-cost daily carbon ink and filter paper, a flexible pressure sensor is designed and fabricated using a simple dip-coating method. The proposed pressure sensor consists of two filter papers coated with carbon ink as sensitive layers, fabric conductive tapes as flexible electrodes, and polyimide tape as packaging layer. The filter paper has a fibrous microstructure, which is beneficial for improving the pressure sensing performance of the pressure sensor. The main component of carbon ink is amorphous carbon, which has a moderate conductivity. The results indicate that the pressure sensor exhibits wide detection range (0.1–100 kPa), high sensitivity of 0.627 kPa−1 (0.1–15 kPa), short response/recovery times (230 ms/290 ms) and good durability (4000 cycles at 50 kPa). In addition, the pressure sensor can be used for physiological and motion monitoring, such as pulse and step count. This work provides an optional strategy for developing wide detection range, low-cost, eco-friendly and flexible pressure sensor. [Display omitted] • The carbon ink and filter paper are used for fabricating flexible pressure sensor. • The pressure sensor shows wide detection range and good repeatability. • The pressure sensor is successfully used for pulse and human motion detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon materials are widely used as electrodes because their versatility allows the manufacture of different electrochemical sensors. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is a versatile route for their production, allowing carbon growth on different substrates, such as ceramic fiber paper (CFP), a flexible and easy-to-handle material composed of alumina, silica, inorganic binders, and organic residues. Here, we demonstrate a route for carbon electrode preparation over CFP using methane as an additional carbon source to improve the electronic properties of the material. Different synthesis temperatures were tested, and the sample produced at 1000 °C (CFP-1000) was electrically conductive. The new material was applied as an electrochemical sensor to determine paracetamol in drugs, tap water, and synthetic urine samples using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and diquat in tap water and wild honey samples by the square-wave voltammetry (SWV) technique. For both, it was observed that the matrix effects were insignificant for the sensor. The limit of detection (LOD) calculated for paracetamol was 0.05 μmol L−1, while the LOD for diquat was 0.001 μmol L−1. [Display omitted] • A carbon-based electrode was produced by the CVD method over ceramic fiber paper. • Methane gas improved the ceramic fiber paper's electrical conductivity. • The electrode performed the paracetamol and diquat detection satisfactorily. • The sensor presented reproducibility and low LOD for paracetamol and diquat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guanosine is an essential biomarker that enacts an important role in neuroprotection against brain-related activities, influences the metabolism of fatty acids, and assists in the improvement of the gastrointestinal tract. A facile and selective electrochemical sensor has been developed for the sensing of guanosine based on a hierarchical porous covalent organic framework. Owing to the distinctive 2D porous architecture and ordered framework of TpBD-COF, the irreversible electrooxidation of guanosine occurred at 1.03 V (vs. SCE) in phosphate buffer solution at pH 6. The anodic peak currents under optimal conditions were linear with guanosine concentration within the range of 0.123–720 μM with a LOD of 40.63 nM under various optimal conditions. Moreover, the developed biosensor was used to determine guanosine in pharmaceutical tablets to confirm its potential application in the healthcare industry. [Display omitted] • Hierarchical porous covalent organic framework-based sensor for guanosine detection. • The heteroatom functionalized structure boosted the electrochemical sensing ability. • It exhibited a broad linear detection range from 0.123 to 720 μM and achieved a low detection limit of 40.63 nM. • The sensor demonstrated excellent repeatability and reproducibility, indicating its reliability for guanosine detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a stable, simple, and efficient Thermally Oxidized Porous Silicon/Zinc Oxide biochip substrate was fabricated based on the advantages of porous silicon substrate and Zinc Oxide nanomaterials. It was also investigated as an efficient substrate for enhanced fluorescence performance in detecting toxins. Porous Silicon was prepared by electrochemical anodic corrosion method, and the optimum preparation conditions of Porous Silicon were explored to be current density of 80 mA/cm2 and time of 20 min. Porosity, corrosion layer thickness and surface morphology of Porous Silicon were analyzed using gravimetric analysis and SEM. The fresh Porous Silicon was modified by combining with thermal oxidation method. The stability and optical properties of Thermally Oxidized Porous Silicon and fresh Porous Silicon were compared using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Fiber optic spectroscopy. The reasons for the enhanced stability and optical properties were explored. Then the impregnation lift-off method was used to form oval shaped Zinc Oxide particles on Thermally Oxidized Porous Silicon. The fluorescence intensities were compared by binding the toxin aptamers on Thermally Oxidized Porous Silicon and Thermally Oxidized Porous Silicon/Zinc Oxide substrates, respectively. The reasons for the enhanced fluorescence properties were explored. The toxin to be tested had a stronger fluorescence signal on theThermally Oxidized Porous Silicon/Zinc Oxide substrate, which was favorable for improving the detection sensitivity. • The microstructure of porous silicon is affected by etching time and current density. • Porous silicon modified by thermal oxidation can improve stability. • Porous silicon/zinc oxide nanocomposites can form unique and dense structures. • Nanocomposites provide more binding sites and enhance fluorescence signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-induced photocatalysis has been a relatively effective strategy for the efficient use of solar energy. In this paper, highly efficient and stable Ag@C/SrTiO 3 photocatalysts were prepared by compounding silver nanocubes wrapped with few layers graphite with strontium titanate materials. We obtained silver nanocubes with a uniformly dispersed size of about 35 nm by varying the surface energy of silver and inducing the preferential binding of PVP on the (100) crystal plane with the help of selective adsorption of chloride ions on the different crystal planes of silver. As obtained under the characterisation of UV–visible absorption spectra, the material has a broad visible light absorption (450–900 nm). The Ag@C/SrTiO 3 has a hydrogen reduction rate of up to 457.5 μmol g−1·h−1 under simulated sunlight, which is ∼200 % higher than the SrTiO 3 and ∼900 % higher than the sliver. Moreover, the catalyst was stable, still producing 93.5 % hydrogen after three cycles of testing, and the photocatalyst structure did not change as known from the XRD data of the material before and after testing. The present work demonstrates the feasibility of rational design of efficient and stable silver-based photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • In this paper, we obtain uniformly dispersed silver nanocubes (35nm) with a broad visible light absorption range (450-900 nm). • The Ag@C/SrTiO3 has a hydrogen reduction rate of up to 457.5 μmol g−1·h−1 under simulated sunlight, which is ∼200 % higher than the SrTiO3 and ∼900 % higher than the sliver. • The catalyst was stable, still producing 93.5 % hydrogen after three cycles of testing, and the photocatalyst structure did not change before and after testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy has been proposed as a reliable and sustainable source of energy which could play an integral part in demand for foreseeable environmentally friendly energy. Biomass, fossil fuels, waste products, and clean energy sources like solar and wind power can all be employed for producing hydrogen. This comprehensive review paper provides a thorough overview of various hydrogen storage technologies available today along with the benefits and drawbacks of each technology in context with storage capacity, efficiency, safety, and cost. Since safety concerns are among the major barriers to the broad application of H 2 as a fuel source, special attention has been paid to the safety implications of various H 2 storage techniques. In addition, this paper highlights the key challenges and opportunities facing the development and commercialization of hydrogen storage technologies, including the need for improved materials, enhanced system integration, increased awareness, and acceptance. Finally, recommendations for future research and development, with a particular focus on advancing these technologies towards commercial viability. [Display omitted] • A comprehensive review covering various aspects of the hydrogen economy. • A detailed discussion on various hydrogen production and storage techniques, with a particular focus on metal hydrides. • Sustainability aspects covering technical, economical, environmental, and social aspects are studied in the following work • Integrating hydrogen storage technology with other renewables and its role in various industries has been discussed. • The large-scale hydrogen projects and prospects have been discussed to broaden the scope of hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The refractory steel retort used in the thermal magnesium production industry works in a high temperature of 1200 °C under high vacuum condition for a long time, with a service life of only about 2 months. Frequent replacement of the reduction retort results in high production costs for thermal magnesium production. The fundamental reason for the instability and deformation of refractory steel reduction retort is high temperature creep, while silicon carbide material has very strong creep resistance and high thermal conductivity at high temperature. Therefore, the silicon carbide material is introduced into the field of thermal magnesium production in this paper. Based on the structural size of the traditional reduction retort, the silicon carbide straight fin reduction retort is designed, and the coupling characteristics of heat and mass transfer and chemical reaction in the silicon carbide straight fin reduction retort are studied by numerical calculation. The results show that the silicon carbide straight fin reduction retort can effectively improve the pellet temperature rise rate, and the minimum temperature in the initial stage is about 700 °C higher than that of the traditional refractory steel retort. The average magnesium production rates of the silicon carbide straight fin reduction retort with 2, 3 and 4 fins are 4.81, 5.89 and 6.91 kg/h, respectively, which are 37 %, 68 % and 97 % higher than that of the traditional retort with 3.5 kg/h. To further improve the production efficiency, a silicon carbide double loop straight fin reduction retort was designed, and the energy saving, emission reduction and carbon reduction potential of this silicon carbide double loop straight fin reduction retort used in thermal magnesium production industry was quantitatively analyzed. The average magnesium production rates of the silicon carbide double loop retort with a fin height of 150 mm and a fin number of 6, 8 and 12 are 5, 5.88 and 8.93 kg/h respectively, which increased the production efficiency by 43 %, 68 % and 155 % respectively compared with the traditional retort. The overall effect of increasing fin height and number on magnesium production rate was to prolong the peak time of production, so that most of the magnesium production work was completed in a short time. The research results in this paper provide a scientific basis for the application of silicon carbide materials in thermal magnesium production industry and a new way for energy saving and carbon reduction. • Application of silicon carbide materials in thermal magnesium reduction industry. • Silicon carbide fins can greatly increase the temperature rise rate in the retort. • The straight fin retort with 3 fins can increase the production efficiency by 68 %. • The double loop retort with 12 fins can increase the production efficiency 155 %. • Silicon carbide provides new ideas for energy conservation in magnesium industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead halide perovskites are an advanced class of materials with high photoluminescence and optoelectronic properties. However their instability towards moisture and lead toxicity hinders their applications especially in biological sensing. Hence the need for novel lead free perovskite nanocrystals are of utmost important. Herein we synthesized a lead free, highly efficient, stable, cost effective Cs 2 ZnCl 4 perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) and extends its application in biosensing. The PNCs exhibits bright blue fluorescence upon UV irradiation and was able to selectively detect bilirubin (BR) - a clinically important jaundice biomarker. The intense fluorescence emission of the sensor was completely quenched upon the addition of bilirubin. The sensor could detect bilirubin even in the presence of other interfering biomolecules with a good limit of detection of 26.10 nM. The sensor could successively detect BR in human serum samples. Furthermore, for the visual detection of bilirubin, a paper strip sensor was also designed making the sensor more economical and adaptable. [Display omitted] • Lead free Cs 2 ZnCl 4 Perovskite nanocrystals were synthesized as the fluorescent probe. • The fluorescence intensity of the probe was drastically quenched upon bilirubin addition. • The sensor displayed a good selectivity and sensitivity towards bilirubin over other coexisting biomolecules. • The sensor shows an accurate recovery percent when applied to human serum samples. • For rapid visual detection, a paper strip sensor was also developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the characteristic properties of CoFe 2 O 4 (CFO) , Co 0.98 Ag 0.02 Fe 2 O 4 (CAFO) , and Co 0.98 Ti 0.02 Fe 2 O 4 (CTFO) spinel ferrites of F d 3 ‾ m space group and grain size in the range of 160 – 170 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectra of these samples have revealed the metal-oxygen bands in the range of 448 – 542 cm−1. Raman spectra have shown six distinct peaks corresponding to the mixed spinel structure, which have been used to calculate the cation distribution of the samples. The magnetic measurement at room temperature shows that after the doping of Ti 4 + ions, the saturation magnetization increases from 47.70 to 66.68 emu/g, and coercivity decreases from 1.84 to 1.61 kOe, making the sample magnetically softer. The law of approach to saturation magnetization has been used to estimate the value of magneto crystalline anisotropy constant. The dielectric behavior of the samples has been thoroughly studied in this paper. The dielectric constant is positive below 300 °C; its value is comparable for CFO and CAFO samples but higher for CTFO. Above this temperature, the samples show an uncommon behavior of negative dielectric constant corresponding to the single phase metamaterial state and its value increases as temperature rises. This behavior can be interpreted with the help of Drude model of plasmonic resonance. The Nyquist plots change their properties from RC to RL type in this region. Such single phase metamaterials with negative dielectric constant could be useful for high temperature microwave applications. [Display omitted] • Studies on Ag+ and Ti4+ doped CoFe 2 O 4 spinel ferrites have been carried out. • The Ti4+ doped sample has shown higher M s and lesser H c than the parent sample. • Single phase metamaterial behavior of dielectric constant is seen at higher temperatures. • This phenomenon is well interpreted by Drude model of plasmonic resonance. • Semiconducting to metallic and RC to RL transitions are seen at higher temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramics possess notable attributes including excellent wear resistance, exceptional high-temperature strength, superior hardness, and outstanding biocompatibility, rendering them indispensable for the fabrication of key industrial components. Additive manufacturing presents significant benefits such as precise fabrication, design flexibility, and the ability for mass customization. This technology facilitates the creation of intricate structural or functional ceramic components with complex geometries, effectively addressing issues that are inadequately managed by conventional methods, such as the inherent brittleness of ceramics and challenges associated with ceramic machining. As advancements in aerospace, special industry, and biomedical sectors progress, the performance limitations of uniform ceramic materials and structures have emerged as a bottleneck constraining the broadening of their application range. There is a pressing need to transition from single-material ceramic additive manufacturing to multi-material printing. This paper highlights and compares various notable advancements in typical single-material ceramic additive manufacturing. In addition, it delves into the present status of multi-material ceramic additive continuous forming and the development of associated equipment, focusing on different forming mechanisms. Finally, the paper concludes by identifying the primary challenges and research priorities in multi-material ceramic additive manufacturing, and suggests potential directions for future development. • Advancements in typical single-material ceramic additive manufacturing are compared. • Three forming strategies for multi-material ceramic additive manufacturing are proposed. • Photosensitive polymerization forming facilitates the production of large-sized multi-material ceramic parts. • Changing feeding and process coupling are innovative directions for multi-material ceramic additive equipment. • The future outlook of multi-material ceramic additive manufacturing is presented from four aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver-white liquid metals (LMs), such as gallium (Ga), eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) and gallium-indium-tin (GaInSn) are becoming increasingly important functional materials in macroscopic bionic robots for their strong room temperature deformation capacities. However, their shiny color makes them particularly easy to be detected and "terminated". Therefore, how to naturally blend in with the surroundings and possess the contact discoloration capacities like the cyborg T-1000 terminator secretly crawling out of the chessboard floor in the movie, is what sci-fi fans are striving to pursue. Herein, we show a rapidly reversible silver-white to dark brown discoloration of LM GaInSn induced merely by being touched by or separated from a piece of rough surface graphite paper. Enhanced charge transfer by rough graphite paper constitutes the main reason for the contact induced discolorations. This work should suggest an exciting way for camouflage, light harvest skin materials on LM smart bionic soft robots. • Rapidly reversible discoloration on liquid metal GaInSn droplets has been obtained. • This rapidly reversible discoloration can go on almost indefinitely. • Enhanced charge transfer effects of modified graphite paper prove to be the main reason for such discoloration. • This study suggests an exciting way for spontaneous color mimicry and light harvest in liquid metal based soft robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy or surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) being a very powerful technique for quantitative and qualitative analysis finds application in low concentration detection of chemical and biological samples. In this work, we have presented a complete methodology of simulating nanoparticles-based SERS substrate. Different configurations namely single nanoparticle, dimer, trimer and tetramer nanoparticle clusters are simulated and enhancement factor for each configuration is estimated. Presented simulations are carried out with COMSOL Multiphysics software using Electromagnetic Waves module (Wave Optics) in frequency domain. The model of gold nanoparticle is established to determine the scatter field, which was further used to estimate the enhancement factor. Simulation results thus obtained are then validated with experimental results. The simulation study using the COMSOL Multiphysics tool helps in the design and development of the SERS substrate for maximum electromagnetic enhancement at a particular wavelength. The presented simulation methodology will be helpful for various SERS related computational studies in future. Presented approach helps in understanding the effect of various parameters such as particle size, inter particle gap, excitation wavelength, etc. on the EM enhancement. Simulating various possibilities before fabrication helps in saving money and time. For device realization, gold nanoparticles are synthesized using Turkevich method to achieve uniform and spherical nanoparticles. Synthesized nanoparticles (40–45 nm radius) were drop casted on a porous cellulose paper substrate to realize a SERS substrate. Nanogaps created between nanoparticles become the hot-spot locations leading to electromagnetic coupling and hence the Raman signal enhancement. Paper based SERS substrate is tested with Rhodamine B (1 μM) test sample. Enhancement of 106 was observed with the developed SERS substrate. UV–Vis spectrometer and Raman spectrometers are used for various characterizations. • The work presents the comprehensive simulation strategy for nano particle-based SERS substrates. • Simulation results present the effect of nanoparticle size and inter particle gap on Raman enhancement. • Different configurations namely, single particle, dimer, trimer and tetramer are simulated and results are discussed. • Gold Nanoparticles are synthesized and SERS substrate using paper is prepared for Raman enhancement and results are presented. • Presented work demonstrates a low-cost SERS substrate with its analytical and experimental investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum carbide is a well-known material, which properties makes it good candidate for replacing platinum in hydrogen production by electrolysis. Mo 2 C phase shows the best characteristics among other molybdenum carbide phases in HER. In this paper Mo 2 C-based powder material has been synthesized by non-vacuum DC arc discharge method. The main advantage of the method is the synthesis under ambient air conditions, which leads to low cost and more effectiveness of the process. We carried out several series of experiments to determine the optimal synthesis parameters that ensure the dominance of the Mo 2 C phase in the synthesis product. Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) obtained via catalytic pyrolysis of ethylene on Ni–Cu alloy were used as a carbon source. CNFs were characterized by SEM and low-temperature adsorption/desorption of N 2. According to XRD analysis, the optimal ratio of the initial components C:Mo is 1:16 wt, arc current is 200 A, and plasma exposure time is 30 s. In this paper, for the first time the oxidation behavior of the Mo 2 C-based material, obtained in DC arc discharge plasma under ambient air conditions, was investigated by TG/DTA. The noble metal free HER electrocatalyst with the synthesized material as precursor was prepared for investigation of electrocatalytic activity. • Mo 2 C-based material was synthesized from carbon nanofibers and molybdenum. • Samples were prepared by DC arc plasma without using any gaseous atmosphere. • Influence of C:Mo ratio, current, time on phase composition of product was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

—This paper investigates a dual-side, dual-mode reflective cross-polarization converter for biosensing applications. The converter consists of a polyimide substrate with a modified dumbbell-shaped resonator on one surface and its complementary slot on another. The overall volume is 8.25μm × 8.25μm × 2.47 μm with dual-band operation of 6.39268–7.311692 THz and 9.783001–23.53473 THz for PCR≥80 % for front signal incidence and two full widths at half maximum (FWHM) bands i.e. 11.71594–12.26761 THz & 19.12042–19.87691 THz for back signal incidence. The periodicity is ∼λ o /6, and substrate thickness is ∼λ o /19 at 6.39268 THz. This device has performance stability for incident angle (θ)≤30o. The performance of this device can be tuned from dual-band operation to single-band by varying the chemical potential of the graphene strip for signal incidence from both sides. This device can classify cancer or tuberculosis-infected cells concerning healthy cells by using the variations in their corresponding refractive indices that lead to changes in the band edge frequencies. This device can differentiate between infected and healthy cells or different refractive indices with a high sensitivity of ∼5 THz/RIU. This device has merits of dual side sensing, wide operating bandwidth, multiple frequencies for sensing purposes, and high sensitivity over previously reported sensors. • Bi-directional Cross polarization converter with incident angle (θ) stability for θ≤30o, thickness and 8.25×8.25×2.47µm3. • Front signal has PCR≥80% for ∼6.39-7.32 THz & ∼9.78-23.53 THz. • Back signal has PCR≥50% for ∼11.72-12.27 THz & ∼19.12-19.88 THz. Graphene chemical potential reconfigures this to single band. • Can be used as Biosensor to detect cancer, tumour, malaria, tuberculosis, Leukemia with high sensitivity of ∼5 THz/RIU. • Proposed refractive index sensing method utilizes fL or fH instead of fr, resulting in more accurate sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the crystal structure, vacancies, magnetoelectric properties and magneto-thermal properties of Gd 1- x Dy x CrO 3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) samples were reported. In crystal structure analysis, after doping Dy3+, the lattice constant and the grain size of the sample decreases. The results of positron annihilation lifetime study indicates that the overall electron density near defect increases and that appeared as a gradual decreasing trend of τ 2 with Dy3+ concentration. The ferromagnetism of the sample gradually decreased after doping, and the T N (Cr) of the sample decreased systematically with increasing concentration of Dy3+. Moreover, the introduction of Dy3+ inhibited the magneto-electric coupling and weakened the magneto-thermal properties of the samples. This result reveals the effect of Dy3+ doping on the structure, magnetic properties, magnetothermal and dielectric properties of GdCrO 3. • Dy3+ doping decreases the antiferromagnetic transition temperature of the sample. • Magnetoelectric coupling gradually disappears in Dy3+ doped samples. • The magneto-thermal properties of Dy3+ doped samples are gradually weakened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient utilization of solid wastes, such as fly ash and steel slag, has attracted significant attention across the globe. In this paper, these two kinds of waste materials are used to prepare porous sound-absorbing materials, so as to achieve efficient resource utilization and environmental protection, and promote green manufacturing and circular economy. In this study, steel slag and high-alumina fly ash were used as the primary raw materials to prepare green bodies via organic foam impregnation. Subsequently, a high-temperature sintering process was implemented to get the porous sound absorption material product from the green bodies. The effects of several factors, including the ratio of steel slag and fly ash, sintering temperature, and pore structure, on the sound absorption and mechanical properties of the product were investigated. Based on the anorthite region in the CaO–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 ternary phase diagram region, the composition ratio of the material was designed. The composition and microstructure of the material were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. From the results, with the increase of the ratio of fly ash and steel slag, the composition of low melting point substances in the system decreases, and the amount of liquid phase decreases, which weakens the pore blocking phenomenon inside the material, resulting in the increase of pore size and noise reduction coefficient of the material. Besides, higher sintering temperature tends to correlate to greater density and higher compressive and flexural strengths but lower porosity, and the sound absorption coefficient demonstrated a peak with respect to sintering temperature. Furthermore, when the reduction of polyurethane sponge body pore size was taken into account, the product's sound absorption coefficient also showed a peak. The optimal parameters for our porous materials are as follows: fly ash:steel slag = 48 : 25, polyurethane sponge pore size = 40 ppi, sintering temperature = 1160 °C at 1-h duration (bulk density = 573.98 kg/m3), compressive strength = 1 MPa, porosity = 79.35 %, and noise reduction coefficient = 0.47. • New ways to utilize steel slag and fly ash. • Ratio of raw materials determines the content of anorthite crystal phase. • Pore size of polyurethane sponge improves sound absorption performance of material. • Ratio of raw materials and sintering temperature improve sound absorption performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a superhydrophobic surface was prepared on the surface of Ti–6Al–4V (TC4) alloy prepared by selective laser melting (SLM), and the water contact angle (WCA) was 156.8°. The laser surface texturing (LST) and chemical modification treatments were combined with a micro-arc oxidation (MAO) treatment to improve the mechanical durability of the superhydrophobic surface. The surface morphology, wettability, wear resistance, and abrasion resistance of the composite coatings were analyzed, and the mechanism of abrasion resistance on superhydrophobic surfaces was discussed. The superhydrophobic surface that was prepared withstood abrasion under 600 # sandpaper at a pressure of 2.9 kPa and a movement distance of 1020 cm. In addition, the prepared superhydrophobic surface showed better wear resistance and friction reduction in friction experiment, exhibiting more stable coefficient of friction (COF) curve, lower COF value, and narrower abrasion marks. The results show that the prepared composite coatings not only exhibit superhydrophobicity, but also good mechanical stability, which effectively improves the mechanical property of superhydrophobic sample and significantly prolongs its service life in harsh environments. This study provided a new idea and preparation method for the preparation of mechanically stabilized superhydrophobic surface. • The composite coatings are prepared on the TC4 surface by combining MAO and LST technology. • Superhydrophobic surface exhibits excellent wear and friction reduction. • The superhydrophobic surface has superior mechanical durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tin Telluride (SnTe) stands out among semiconductor materials, drawing attention as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional Lead Telluride (PbTe). This study explores the novel incorporation of titanium (Ti) and zirconium (Zr) as dopant elements in SnTe-based materials, an approach that has never been previously investigated. Leveraging mathematical modeling and machine learning methodologies, we use Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Network-Genetic Algorithm (ANN-GA) to predict thermoelectric properties of SnTe-based materials and find the optimum dopant element addition and operating temperature. Eleven samples featuring varying Ti and Zr concentrations are employed in experimental investigations, with dopant amounts ranging from 0 to 0.05 M. Characterization of each sample is conducted across a temperature spectrum from 50 to 450 °C, yielding a comprehensive dataset of 99 entries for neural network model construction. The generated RSM and ANN models demonstrate remarkable predictive accuracy for the thermoelectric properties of SnTe-based materials, showcasing coefficient of determination (R 2) values spanning from 0.986 to 0.998. This study uses RSM and ANN-GA to predict an optimized zT value of 0.558. This value surpasses the highest zT value from the experiment by 3.33 %. In conclusion, this investigation underscores the potency of RSM and ANN as valuable tools for advancing research on SnTe-based thermoelectric materials, exemplifying their capacity to hasten the exhausting process of finding the optimum dopant addition and operating temperature. • This paper studied the thermoelectric properties of Tin Telluride (SnTe). • The effects of adding single dopant elements Titanium (Ti) and Zirconium (Zr) are observed. • Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) are employed. • Adding Ti and Zr significantly increases the zT values of SnTe. • RSM and ANN could be used in future research to minimize time and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers have drawn more attention due to their superior mechanical strength, piezoelectric qualities, and thermal stability. PVDF is regarded as a popular fluoropolymer. It is easily processed and possesses chemical resistance to a variety of substances, including various acids, bases, organic solvents, oil, and fat. Among the most extensively studied polymers with piezoelectric characteristics is PVDF. It was noted in the literature that increasing the β-phase in PVDF crystals and fibers increased the material's electromechanical properties. The β-phase concentration of PVDF has been increased by several studies over the last few decades, utilizing a variety of processing methods and additives. Electrospinning is one of these processing techniques. The development of electrospinning technology enabled precise tweaking of the β-phase. Pure polymer materials only have a restricted number of applications because of their small β-phase percentage. To address this issue, using nanofibers (NFs) to create composite materials is an extremely attractive design strategy for piezoelectric materials. This work reviews the impact of several nanoadditives, such as metal oxides, carbon-based materials, organic and inorganic lead halide perovskites, and some other fillers, on the piezoelectric behavior of PVDF and its copolymer structure. This paper makes an effort to provide a general overview of the electrospinning procedure for PVDF, a piezoelectric polymer, as well as the approach used to characterize its β-phase and composite materials made with NFs. With an emphasis on creating a suitable crystalline structure in the PVDF material, this study seeks to give commentary from a materials chemistry standpoint. [Display omitted] • Enhancing PVDF Nanofibers for Superior Properties. • Optimizing β-Phase in PVDF for Improved Electromechanical Performance. • Utilizing Electrospinning for Precise β-Phase Control. • Expanding PVDF Applications with Nanofiber Composites. • Exploring Nano Additives' Impact on PVDF Piezoelectricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The innovative work presented in the paper focused on microstructures and wear performance of MoS 2 doped Al 2 O 3 coatings on TC6 alloy. Nano- and micron-sized MoS 2 particles doped Al 2 O 3 coatings (n and m-MoS 2 /Al 2 O 3 coating) were fabricated on TC6 alloy via cathodic plasma electrolytic deposition (CPED) technique. The microstructures and compositions of the coatings were characterized, the tribological behaviors were tested, and doping mechanism of MoS 2 particles was discussed. The results showed that, doped coatings were composed of α -Al 2 O 3 , γ -Al 2 O 3 and MoS 2. The doping of MoS 2 particles promoted the transformation from γ -Al 2 O 3 to α -Al 2 O 3 during CPED process, and increased the compactness and crystallinity of doped coatings. The friction coefficients of TC6 alloy, Al 2 O 3 coating, n-MoS 2 /Al 2 O 3 coating and m-MoS 2 /Al 2 O 3 coating were about 0.7, 0.6, 0.55 and 0.45 in sequence, and the wear rates of n-MoS 2 /Al 2 O 3 coating and m-MoS 2 /Al 2 O 3 coating were about 75 % and 58 % of Al 2 O 3 coating. MoS 2 particles played the role of lubrication and contributed to improving wear performance of doped coatings, both friction coefficients and wear rates were declined, and micron-sized MoS 2 particles presented better wear performance than nano-sized particles. • Nano/micron-MoS2 particles doped Al2O3 coatings were fabricated on TC6 alloy via CPED technique. • The doping of MoS 2 particles effectively improved the wear resistance of the doped coatings. • The size of MoS 2 particles was the main factor affecting the wear performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, presents surface modification of Cu substrates by electroplating or chemical plating to obtain high-quality Ni and Ni–P coatings. The Sn58Bi solder reactions with Cu, Ni, and Ni–P UBMs at 180 °C, 250 °C, and 320 °C, respectively. Research has found that Ni and Ni–P substrates can inhibit Bi phase segregation and interfacial IMC overgrowth in Sn–Bi solder joints. Bi phase segregation occurs during the transition from Cu 6 Sn 5 to Cu 3 Sn. There is Bi segregation at the interface of Sn58Bi/Cu solder joints to Cu 3 Sn/Cu interface, and IMC grows rapidly. However, Ni/Cu and Ni–P/Cu substrates can not only suppress the Bi phase segregation behavior of Sn58Bi solder joints during soldering, but also slow down the excessive growth of interfacial IMC; Even under the harsh soldering process of up to 320 °C for 600 s, it still has an effective blocking effect. In addition, at 320 °C, when Sn58Bi solder react with Cu, the interface directly crosses Cu 6 Sn 5 to generate Cu 3 Sn, which exhibits the morphology characteristics of Cu 6 Sn 5 due to high thermal conditions. During the soldering, Ni atoms continuously diffuse towards the interface, and Ni 3 Sn 4 (Ni/Cu) grows from needle like in the early stage of soldering to rod like, and finally to block like; The block like appearance of Ni 3 Sn 4 (Ni–P/Cu) occurs earlier than that of Ni 3 Sn 4 (Ni/Cu), because the presence of columnar Ni 3 P layers provides a wider diffusion channel for Ni atoms, but the overall growth size is smaller than that on Ni/Cu. A higher undercooling can promote the growth of interfacial IMC, including Cu 6 Sn 5 and Ni 3 Sn 4. At the same time, the Bi phase inside the Sn58Bi solder joint is coarsened, and the substrate Ni/Ni–P can eliminate interfacial brittleness after eliminating Bi segregation. • Elucidated the segregation mechanism of Bi phase in Sn Bi solder during use. • Confirmed that Ni and Ni-P substrates can inhibit Bi segregation and IMC overgrowth during the use of Sn Bi solder. • Discovering that substrates Ni and Ni-P can weaken the brittleness of Sn58Bi joints. • The existence of undercooling can coarsen Bi phase in Sn Bi solder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid organic hydrogen storage is a promising way of storing hydrogen. The development of efficient and low-cost dehydrogenation catalysts is still required to advance the commercialization of N -ethylcarbazole/dodecahydro- N -ethylcarbazole (NEC/H12-NEC) hydrogen storage and transport system. In this paper, PdNi bimetallic catalyst (Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs) supported on MgAl hydrotalcite was prepared by NaBH 4 and ultrasound-assisted stepwise reduction. Ultrasonic cavitation could excite the hydroxyl hydrogen of hydrotalcite in the form of hydrogen radicals to reduce PdCl 4 2− to Pd nanoparticles (NPs), and also promoted the formation of PdNi alloys as well as the dispersion of NPs. In the Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs catalyst, the average particle size of NPs was 1.98 nm, suggesting an excellent dispersion of Pd, Ni, and PdNi NPs. The electronic effects of Ni and Pd significantly improved the catalytic efficiency of Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs in H12-NEC dehydrogenation, resulting in a hydrogen release rate of 98.4 % after 6 h at 180 °C, surpassing that of Pd/LDHs. It can be considered that the dehydrogenation performance of Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs for H12-NEC is related to the alloy phase, electronic structure and NPs size. [Display omitted] • Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs bimetallic catalyst for H12-NEC dehydrogenation was prepared by NaBH4 and ultrasound-assisted stepwise reduction. • Ultrafine PdNi NPs and the strong electronic effect of Ni and Pd effectively improved the catalytic performance. • Pd 3 Ni 1 /LDHs showed high stability and proficient reusability during 6 consecutive cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper represents a detailed study of Gd3+ substitutions on Structural, Dielectric, Spectroscopic, Raman, and Photo luminance Properties of Ba 0.4 Sr 0.6 Co 2 Fe 16 O 27 magnetic oxides were prepared using the sol-gel auto combustion method. All of these specimens were sintered at 1100 °C for 5 h. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed the single-phase detection and structural analysis. The lattice parameters a and c show the insignificant behavior 5.893–5.933 Å, and 32.049–32.476 Å with the concentration of gadolinium ions. The crystallite size ranged from 25 to 30 nm, demonstrating a growing tendency as Gd-substitution was enhanced. The discrepancy in the ionic radii of iron (Fe3+) and substituent elements (Gd3+) is the cause of the variation in cell volume and lattice constants. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of absorption bands (590 and 3000 cm−1) for prepared BaSr-based W-type hexa-ferrites. The vibrational bands of metal oxide ions are responsible for the 590 and 685 cm−1 peaks. The Raman spectrum showed six discrete, brittle peaks: 320, 440, 620, 690, 1300, and 1600 of synthesized nanomaterials—the dielectric constant and dielectric loss increase by substituting the Gd3+ ion. The dielectric parameters and dielectric loss at higher frequencies suggest that the prepared material may be excellent for switching, sensing, and high-frequency applications. [Display omitted] • Gd substituted Ba 0.4 Sr 0.6 Co 2 Fe 16 O 27 were prepared via sol-gel auto technique. • The crystallite size was optimised from 25 to 30 nm. • FTIR evidenced absorption bands (590 and 3000 cm−1) for these materials. • Raman spectra showed six discrete peaks: 320, 440, 620, 690, 1300, and 1600. • These may have potential for switching, sensing, and high-frequency applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper set out to investigate the synthesis and electromagnetic characterization of Ti 3 AlC 2 MAX phase and Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene in Ti–Al–C ternary system. In this regard, Ti 3 AlC 2 MAX phase was synthesized using mechanical milling process of TiC, Al, and Ti powder mixtures based on 2TiC–Al–Ti + xAl (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1). The HF acidic etching was also employed to synthesize the Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene. Structural and electromagnetic characterizations of the prepared samples were conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and vector network analyzer. The obtained results point to the impossibility of the formation of Ti 3 AlC 2 single-phase structure in stoichiometric system. In other word, development of the Ti 3 AlC 2 single-phase structure is only possible in non-stoichiometric 2TiC–2Al–Ti system. The minimum reflection losses of the prepared Ti 3 AlC 2 MAX phase was estimated to be around −30.73 dB at the matching frequency of 15.25 GHz. The results further revealed that the etching time affects electromagnetic behavior of the MXene. That is, an increase in the etching time brings about a change in the reflection loss (RL) from −24.17 to −5.69 dB within the frequency range of 1–18 GHz. • Successfully synthesis of Ti 3 AlC 2 MAX and Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene in Ti–Al–C ternary system. • The phase transformation in 2TiC–Al–Ti + xAl powder mixtures has been investigated. • The electromagnetic characteristics of Ti 3 AlC 2 and Ti 3 C 2 T x has been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, to determine the influence of the shape of the auxiliary anode on the protection potential distribution in an impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system, an electrochemical and a level-set optimization method were combined to optimize the shape of the auxiliary anode. To accomplish this, the square of the deviation between the potential of the structure and the protection potential was used as the objective function, and the level set theory was employed to develop the anode shape. Following a set number of iterations, the optimized anode shape was obtained. Using the optimized anode, a current was injected into the anode surface, and the potential distribution was calculated. The experimental results showed that the potential distribution of the protected surface was uniform, and it could fully protect the protected structure's surface, which helped to avoid overprotection or underprotection. • The geometric shape of ICCP auxiliary anode was optimized for the first time by using level set algorithm and electrochemical theory; • The evolution velocity equation and adjoint equation of the level set curve are derived; • According to the evolution equation, the anode geometry is optimized.Through the optimized anode, current is injected into the electrolyte, and the potential distribution of the protected part of the struture uniform, which can achieve good protection effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the fabrication of electrochemical sensor based on core–shell heterostructure of NiCo–OH@C–ZnSe–CoSe 2 /Zn–Co-ZIF to efficient recognition of guanine. First, the bimetallic Zn/Co-ZIF precursor was obtained via facile solvothermal method and then coated with uniform PDA layer. Finally, the target material named PDA@Zn/Co-ZIF was synthesized by selenization and calcination processes at inert atmosphere and used as a core. The combination of reconstructed ZIFs as a core and transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as a shell led to the construction of a new catalyst with a core-shell structure and unique properties such as more exposed electrochemical active sites and high conductivity due to the strong synergistic effects between core and shell. The guanine based amperometric sensor was shown two linear responses in the range of 0.1 μM–2 μM and 2 μM–56 μM with a detection limit of 0.03 μM (S/N = 3). In addition, the proposed sensor exhibited satisfactory reproducibility with relative standard deviation (RSD) of 1%, excellent anti-interference ability, and favorable stability. [Display omitted] • A novel core–shell heterostructure of NiCo–OH@C–ZnSe–CoSe 2 /Zn–Co-ZIF was fabricated. • It was used as a new electrocatalyst for guanine sensing. • It was showed high electrocatalytic performance toward guanine sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic infections pose a major threat to global public health, and what's worse is that the bacteria in infected places often exist in the form of biofilms, making it impossible for antibiotics and other contact bactericidal substances to penetrate their interior. Therefore, looking for an effective method with synergistic antibacterial and biofilm removal properties is a key challenge. A kind of magnetic MXene@Fe 3 O 4 /PDA nanosheets with antibacterial properties of photothermal magnetic coupling are reported in this paper. Fe 3 O 4 was grown in situ on MXene nanosheets and then coated with a layer of polydopamine (PDA). MXene@Fe 3 O 4 /PDA nanosheet (120 μg/mL) showed an over 95% inhibition rate against E. coli and S. aureus under 808 nm laser irradiation. In addition, peroxidase-like activity can produce reactive oxygen species. The photothermal antibacterial properties were further enhanced under the action of rotating magnetic field. The antibacterial activity was increased to close to 99.99%, and the removal effect of biofilm was also very good. The photothermal and magnetic coupled antibacterial effects can reduce the amount of MXene@Fe 3 O 4 /PDA, thus it is expected to reduce the damage caused by overheating normal tissues and is safer than pure photothermal therapy. • The MXene@Fe 3 O 4 /PDA nanosheet has excellent photothermal conversion property. • The nanosheet exhibits magnetically enhanced photothermal antibacterial activity and biofilm removal properties. • The nanosheet concentration required for coupling antibacterial is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical organic admixtures play a significant role in engineering structures. This paper reviews the effects of organic admixtures with different molecular scales and functional groups on the cement hydration process and discusses their roles in the microstructure and properties of cement-based materials. According to the current research, the molecular structure of admixtures determines their adsorption performance on cement, which in turn affects their mechanism of action and durability in cement-based materials. Incorporating organic admixtures can regulate the properties of cement-based materials. Most admixtures can adsorb onto the surface of cement particles and complex with Ca2+ in the liquid phase, thus exhibiting a retarding effect. The hydration products of cement develop more completely, potentially positively impacting the durability of concrete, particularly its impermeability. [Display omitted] • The impact of functional group types on the properties of chemical organic admixtures was reviewed. • Chemical organic admixtures can alter the hydration products and hydration process of cement. • Workability, mechanical properties and durability of chemical organic admixtures on cement were discussed. • Chemical organic admixtures can be an ideal selection for optimizing cement performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface modification of electrospun Polycaprolactone (PCL) nanoscaffold is to enhance surface properties, particularly bioactivity. In this paper, electrospinning was employed to produce PCL nanoscaffolds and enhancing the bioactivity of the electrospun PCL scaffolds by sputtering of Zirconium based thin film metallic glasses (Zr -TFMGs). The Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis exhibited the presence of Zr, Ti and Si and surface topography by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) revealed the smooth surface of metallic glasses with nanofibrous structures. The sputtered samples were subjected to immersion test in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) to analyze the apatite forming ability of Zr–Ti–Si metallic glasses. After 21days of incubation, SEM clearly showed the spherical structures of apatite formed on the surface of modified electrospun PCL. Cell viability studies using L929 fibroblast cells indicates the higher proliferation rate for the Zr based TFMG sputtered PCL scaffold specimen than the uncoated neat PCL scaffold and indicating the bioactive nature of Zr based TFMG. Contact angle of TFMG sputtered sample exhibited the hydrophobic surface which is helpful in preventing the biomedical devices from blood coagulation. [Display omitted] • Zr–Ti–Si Thin Film Metallic Glasses (TFMG) were developed by DC magnetron sputtering onto electrospun PCL nanoscaffold. • XPS results exhibited the presence of Zr, Ti, and Si and confirmed the formation of a stable metallic glass structure. • Zr-based metallic glasses are able to form bone like apatite rapidly in SBF and made suitable for bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solving the global environmental problem which related to the dissolved organic pollutants into water systems is an essential issue for human-health and aquatic life. This study represents the simple synthesis of new Li/La and Cu modified ZnO compositions as active photocatalysts and proper dielectric materials for electrical energy storage devices. The synthesized powders have one phase nature with hexagonal lattice indexed to ZnO structure. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) clearly showed that (Li, La) modified ZnO powder consist of a mixture of particles having open hexagonal tube and spherical shapes. The FESEM picture of (Li, Cu, La) modified ZnO powder revealed lumps like cabbage shape mainly composed of pieces like sheets or papers. The purity and elemental composition were also verified by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The addition of (Li, La) and (Li, Cu, La) ions to ZnO semiconductor extremely improved the dielectric constant which is a benefit for application in solid state energy storage systems. (Li, Cu, La) modified ZnO sample is a suitable catalyst for removal of organic waste owing to its high response to visible light spectrum with measured band gap energy of 2.76 eV. The synergistic effect of Li+, Cu2+ and La3+ dopants induced high visible light photodegradation activities against thiamethoxam pesticide and brilliant green dye with measured efficiencies of 92 and 96 % after reaction time of 50 min, respectively. The high stability and mineralization properties of (Li, Cu, La) modified ZnO catalyst leads to the conclusion that this composition has a potential use in wastewater treatment. • New operative catalyst based on (Li, Cu, La) modified ZnO semiconductor. • High response to visible light spectrum. • Efficient removal of pesticides and dyes. • High reusability and mineralization characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]