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Dyeing industries release their hazardous dyeing effluents into the environment which affects the human health and ecosystem. Hence, the removal of dye from waste‐water is mandatory one. In this present study, focus on the fabrication of bio‐clay‐ceramic hybrid composites by dispersing bentonite (BT) clay and ceramic hydroxyapatite (HA) into alginate (Alg) and gelatin (Gel) polymeric matrixes by in‐situ method which gives BTHAAlg and BTHAGel hybrid composites for methylene blue (MB) removal. The various adsorption influencing parameters such as shaking time, adsorbent dosage, pH and initial MB concentration were optimized under batch method. The highest MB adsorption capacities of BTHAAlg and BTHAGel composites were found to be 43.70 and 47.50 mg/g respectively with optimized conditions of 100 mg/L of initial MB concentration, 40 min shaking time and 0.1 g dosages. In pH studies, the high MB adsorption capacity of bio‐clay‐ceramic composites were noticed at pH 11. The characterization techniques like FTIR, SEM and EDAX analysis were performed to find the physico‐chemical properties of bio‐clay‐ceramic composites. The equilibrium data of hybrid composites towards MB adsorption was well fitted with Langmuir isotherm model than D‐R and Fruendlich models because of higher r and low sd values. The negative values of ▵Go at three different temperatures (303, 313 and 323 K) indicate that the spontaneous nature of MB adsorption, while positive values of ΔHo and ΔSo revealed that the MB adsorption onto hybrid composites was endothermic in nature and more randomness occurred at solid/liquid interfaces. In kinetic studies, the MB adsorption onto hybrid composites was well fitted with pseudo‐second‐order and intra‐particle diffusion models. The electrostatic attraction and hydrogen bonding plays a dominant role in MB adsorption onto BTHAAlg and BTHAGel bio‐clay‐ceramic composites. The regeneration studies proposed that the hybrid composites can be reusable upto five cycles. Hence, the developed bio‐clay‐ceramic hybrid composites were act as best adsorbents for MB removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The porous, definite and nitrogen rich triaminotriazine (TAT) grafted graphene oxide (GO) known as TATGO composite was developed for nutrients (NO 3 − and PO 4 3−) retention. Additionally, the structural property of TATGO composite was improved with the use of chitosan (CS) to produce easily separable TATGO@CS hybrid beads which possess the significant NO 3 − and PO 4 3− adsorption capacities of 58.46 and 61.38 mg/g respectively than their individual materials. The instrumentations such as SEM, TGA, FTIR, EDAX, XRD and BET studies were executed for adsorbents. The optimization of the parameters accountable for adsorption process was performed in batch scale. The effect of isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R)), kinetics (pseudo-first/second order and particle/intraparticle diffusion) and thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS°) of the adsorption was explored. The removal mechanism of TATGO@CS hybrid beads was to be electrostatic attraction on NO 3 − and PO 4 3−. The field applicability and reuse of TATGO@CS hybrid beads was also inspected. • Novel TATGO@CS composite beads were approached for NO 3 − and PO 4 3− retention. • Amidation reaction between TAT and GO was performed to convert COOH group of GO. • The adsorbent was characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM, EDAX and BET studies. • Protonation of the porous beads leads to electrostatic interaction on NO 3 −/PO 4 3−. • The synthesized beads possess cost-effective and can be reused up to 6 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we have fabricated magnetic nanocomposite based on the starch and salicylaldehyde resin embedded with magnetic Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (SS@Fe 3 O 4). The fabricated nanocomposite was characterized using various analytical methods including XRD, SEM, FTIR, TGA, TEM, BET and XPS. As-fabricated nanocomposite was used for the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solution. The adsorption results revealed that the maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 265.4 and 247.2 mg/g for Pb(II) and Cd(II) respectively at pH 6 and room temperature. The adsorption kinetic results support that the adsorption of both the toxic metals was carried out via second order reaction and the rate constants were found to be 6.31 × 10−5 and 7.18 × 10−5 g·mg−1·min−1 for Pb(II) and Cd(II) respectively. The adsorption isotherm displays the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and supports the monolayer and mainly chemisorption with poor physisorption. Additionally, the thermodynamic parameters were evaluated and the adsorption came true in exothermically and spontaneously with both Pb(II) and Cd(II). As-fabricated starch based magnetic nanocomposite displays excellent adsorption as well as outstanding reusability. Therefore, these outcomes support that the SS@Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite can be used as a promising adsorbent for industrial application. Unlabelled Image • Starch based magnetic nanocomposite was fabricated with salicylaldehyde. • As-fabricated nanocomposite was used for the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solution. • The effects of pH value, contact time and concentration on the adsorption process were investigated. • Pb(II) and Cd(II) adsorption followed the pseudo-second order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the magnetic nanocomposite is fabricated using chitosan, thiobarbituric acid, malondialdehyde and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (CTM@Fe 3 O 4). The fabricated nanocomposite (CTM@Fe 3 O 4) is characterized using FTIR, TGA, BET, XRD, Raman, XPS, FESEM, and HRTEM techniques. The results of BET analysis confirmed that the nanocomposite has a mesoporous structure with high surface area of 376 m2 g−1 and high pore volume 0.3828 cm3 g−1. The adsorption of tetracycline (TC) onto CTM@Fe 3 O 4 adsorbent is carried out using batch technique by changing several factors such as pH, concentration, contact time, and temperature. Langmuir and pseudo-second-order nonlinear models were found to be the best-fit models to predict isotherms and kinetics of adsorption, respectively. The highest adsorption capacity of 215.31 mg/g was achieved at the optimum conditions of 0.05 g adsorbent dosage, 60 mg/ L TC concentration. Overall, results demonstrated that CTM@Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite was an excellent adsorbent material with superparamagnetic properties, which allowed the separation as well as recovery of the adsorbent from aqueous solution using external magnet for effective industrial applications. Unlabelled Image • Mesoporous nanocomposite of chitosan/thiobarbituric acid/malondialdehyde-Fe 3 O 4 has been prepared. • CTM@Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposites show super-paramagnetic features. • The fabricated nanocomposites show high surface area of 376 m2 g−1 and high pore volume 0.3828 cm3 g−1. • The adsorption kinetics and isotherms can be well-defined by pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir isotherm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption is a commonly used technique for the removal of pollutants from wastewaters. In this study, a magnetic adsorbent (Fe 3 O 4 @BFR) was prepared using biuret-formaldehyde pre polymeric resin (BFR) and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles. The adsorption ability of Fe 3 O 4 @BFR was investigated using Cd(II) metal ion as a typical pollutant. Adsorption of Cd(II) was studied as a function of temperature (25–45 °C), pH (2–7), time (5–300 min) and initial Cd(II) concentration (25–75 mg L−1). The morphology, structure and magnetic character of Fe 3 O 4 @BFR nanocomposite were explored using X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherm, scanning electron microscopy and VSM analyses. Adsorption kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamics studies were also carried out. The experimental adsorption data followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm with a maximum adsorption capacity of 92.6 mg g−1. The reusability of Fe 3 O 4 @BFR was tested and still over 70% Cd(II) was removed after three cycles. In conclusion, Fe 3 O 4 @BFR nanocomposite showed enormous potential for remediating industrial wastewater polluted by toxic Cd(II) metal ion. • Fe 3 O 4 @BFR was prepared using biuret-formaldehyde pre polymeric resin and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles. • Fe 3 O 4 @BFR was used for the adsorptive removal of Cd(II) from aqueous medium. • The process obeys Langmuir isotherm and pseudo first order kinetic model. • The adsorption was increased with increasing the temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biochars (BcB-1.0 and BcB-1.5) with high surface areas (1267–1520 m2g−1) were produced. • Fast kinetic processes were obtained with 95% saturation being attained in less than 23 min. • Both biochars successfully removed pharmaceuticals from the synthetic pharmaceutical industry with an efficiency of 98–99%. • DFT calculation elucidated the enalapril adsorption mechanism on biochars. Porous biochar was fabricated from Butia capitata (Bc) seed, which was used to uptake enalapril maleate from synthetic wastewater. Activated biochars were fabricated by blending Bc and ZnCl 2 at 1:1 (BcB-1.0) or 1:1.5 (BcB-1.5) proportions and furtherly pyrolyzed at 600 °C. The elemental analysis, Boehm titration, hydrophobic balance ratio, FTIR, TGA, and N 2 isotherm characterized the carbon-based materials. They presented a hydrophilic behavior with diverse polar groups on their surface. BcB-1 and BcB-1.5 biochars have a total pore volume of 0.392 and 0.492 cm3 g−1 and a surface area of 1267 and 1520 m2/g, respectively. The kinetics and isothermal data were adequately adjusted to the fractal-like pseudo-second-order and Liu models. The employment of BcB-1.0 and BcB-1.5 for treating synthetic wastewater containing high levels of pollutants had elevated efficiency in their removals (up to 99.06%). We also conducted a DFT computational study, density functional theory (DFT), to examine the interactions between enalapril and a graphitic domain of biochar by using these calculations, the most stable configuration presented interaction energy of −88.7 kJ mol−1 implies a face-to-face π–π stacking interaction involving the enalapril phenyl segment and an aromatic ring of the graphitic domain, as well as London dispersion arising from the proximity of ethoxy/pyrrolidine to biochar carbon atoms, with interatomic distances of 3.31 Å for the former and 3.60 Å /3.48 Å for the latter. Also, the DFT calculations agreed with the thermodynamic data calculated from the isotherms (283–318 K). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, highly porous N/S doped magnetic carbon aerogel (N/S-MCA) was successfully fabricated using sugarcane bagasse based cellulose and used for the removal of bisphenol‑A (BPA) from aqueous solution. The fabricated N/S-MCA nanocomposite derived from cellulose was characterized by various analytical techniques and supports the formation of the N/S-MCA in good yield and high purity. The batch adsorption studies were used for the adsorption of BPA onto N/S-MCA. The maximum removal of the BPA (98–99%) by the N/S-MCA was noted at pH 7, temperature 343 K, and initial BPA concentration of 100 ppm. The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order reaction kinetics, as well as Langmuir isotherms. The thermodynamic parameters of the adsorption (the Gibbs free energy, entropy, and enthalpy) supported the spontaneity of the adsorption process. The results revealed that the mechanism on the synergistic adsorption between N/S doped magnetic carbon aerogel and BPA will therefore be an important guideline to design a carbon based adsorbent for high-efficient adsorption of environmental pollutants. Unlabelled Image • N/S doped magnetic carbon aerogel (N/S-MCA) was fabricated using sugarcane bagasse. • The (N/S-MCA) nanocomposite showed the high rates of adsorption for BPA. • The adsorption was support the second order adsorption for BPA. • The (N/S-MCA) was regenerated by simply washing with M methanol solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review discusses the brief of health problem associated with the arsenic exposure found in drinking water. This review also discusses the shortcomings associated with the traditional methods, advantages with adsorption process and the new approaches towards the advance and effective techniques. The novelty of present study is a collection of latest literature and reports which comprises the latest advances made in the nanoparticles and nano-composites for the efficient removal of arsenic from aqueous medium. The mechanism of interaction of arsenic and nanomaterials surface is discussed in this novel review. The latest and novel approaches towards avoiding the preoxidation step for arsenite removal using oxidants is also highlighted, and the large numbers of nanomaterials having the photo catalytic properties and functionalities for simultaneous oxidation of arsenite to arsenate and adsorption of both forms, is also deliberated. No previous literatures have discussed the detail of oxidation of arsenite to arsenate using the nanomaterials having photocatalytic activities. Overall, this review highlights and provides an overview, advantages and features of the newly developed nanomaterials comprising virgin zero valent metallic nanoparticles, metal oxides, metal doped oxides, binary metal oxides, mixed metal oxides, functionalized metal oxides and organic-inorganic nanocomposites for arsenic removal. The comparative evaluation of cited nanomaterials and low-cost, and others micro/nano-sized adsorbent has also been also comprised. The disadvantages associated with the existing technology are deeply highlighted and future development and prospects have been discussed in depth. Therefore, this review article will definitely contribute a great role to the researches by developing the advanced materials to remove all shortcomings associated with the existing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil spills present the enormous harm to the environment, and its potential remediation for environmental protection is import worldwide. Herein, we report an effective strategy inspired by the lignin based bio-waste date palm pits powder (Phoenix dactylifera L.), which was modified with magnetic Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals and used as a porous, hierarchical graphite carbon oil/solvent sorption magnetic materials. The fabricated nanocomposite (Fe 3 O 4 @MPC) was characterized using several analytical techniques. The results revealed that Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles with a 22 nm in average size were embedded into the graphite carbon matrix. The rate of sorption, sorption capacity, oil retention, water uptake, adsorption isotherm model, and kinetic behavior were evaluate and >85% of both oils were adsorbed, onto Fe 3 O 4 @MPC surface in the first 30 min followed by equilibrium in both type of aqueous solution. The batch equilibrium data supported the Langmuir isotherm model with the adsorption capacity about to 23.01 mg/g. The kinetics data was well fitted with pseudo-second-order kinetic model. After saturation, the Fe 3 O 4 @MPC was recycled using ethanol and reused for further cycle. The fabricated nanocomposite exhibited a significant dual oleophilic and hydrophobic nature that can be applicable for oil removal from oil-contaminated wastewaters. Meanwhile, the magnetic properties allowed Fe 3 O 4 @MPC to be separated conveniently and effectively from the solution and used as oil absorbent without touching the oil. Unlabelled Image • Fabrication of highly porous, hierarchical graphite carbon (Fe 3 O 4 @MPC) from date palm pits • Fe 3 O 4 @MPC was used for removal and recovery of diesel and gasoline from aqueous medium. • Fe 3 O 4 @MPC was recycled and used for ten times without any considerable loss in adsorption capacity. • The magnetization saturation value of Fe 3 O 4 @MPC was found to be 37.81 emu g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Toxicity of arsenic and its treatment was discussed. • The review comprises the application of nanomaterials in arsenic water treatment. • The recent advances in arsenic water treatment using nanomaterials were explicated. • Described the improvements for adsorption of arsenic using latest nanomaterials. • Interaction mechanism between arsenic and nanomaterials was elucidated. This review discusses the brief of health problem associated with the arsenic exposure found in drinking water. This review also discusses the shortcomings associated with the traditional methods, advantages with adsorption process and the new approaches towards the advance and effective techniques. The novelty of present study is a collection of latest literature and reports which comprises the latest advances made in the nanoparticles and nano-composites for the efficient removal of arsenic from aqueous medium. The mechanism of interaction of arsenic and nanomaterials surface is discussed in this novel review. The latest and novel approaches towards avoiding the preoxidation step for arsenite removal using oxidants is also highlighted, and the large numbers of nanomaterials having the photo catalytic properties and functionalities for simultaneous oxidation of arsenite to arsenate and adsorption of both forms, is also deliberated. No previous literatures have discussed the detail of oxidation of arsenite to arsenate using the nanomaterials having photocatalytic activities. Overall, this review highlights and provides an overview, advantages and features of the newly developed nanomaterials comprising virgin zero valent metallic nanoparticles, metal oxides, metal doped oxides, binary metal oxides, mixed metal oxides, functionalized metal oxides and organic-inorganic nanocomposites for arsenic removal. The comparative evaluation of cited nanomaterials and low-cost, and others micro/nano-sized adsorbent has also been also comprised. The disadvantages associated with the existing technology are deeply highlighted and future development and prospects have been discussed in depth. Therefore, this review article will definitely contribute a great role to the researches by developing the advanced materials to remove all shortcomings associated with the existing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Amino functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (NH 2 -MWCNTs) were prepared via chemical modification of the surface of multiwall carbon nanotubes. The magnetic nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4) were embedded with NH 2 -MWCNTs and the developed magnetic carbon nanotube (NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4) were characterized via several analytical techniques including FT-IR, Raman, XRD, TEM, SAED, SEM, BET and VSM. The fabricated NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 was used for the removal of toxic methylene blue dye (MB) from aqueous medium. The results of VSM indicated that the fabricated NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 had magnetic nature and the saturated magnetization was 37.91 emu/g. The effect of initial solution pH, temperature and contact time on MB adsorption was also investigated. The results of adsorption kinetics exhibited that the adsorption followed the linear pseudo-second-kinetic model well. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied to understand the adsorption behaviors. The maximum adsorption capacity from the Langmuir isotherm equation reached 178.5 mg g−1 indicated that it was a good adsorbent for MB removal. The thermodynamics parameters such as Gibbs free energy (Δ G 0), enthalpy (Δ H 0) and entropy (Δ S 0), supported the spontaneous and exothermic nature of adsorption. It was noted that after six repetitive cycles, the adsorption capacity of NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 was 80% of the original value. Hence, it can be concluded that NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 had substantial reusability which made it an economical adsorbent for MB removal from aqueous medium. Highlights • Amino-functionalized magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes were prepared. • NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 was used as adsorbent for MB dye removal. • Adsorption kinetics and equilibrium isotherm models for MB dye were reviewed. • NH 2 -MWCNTs@Fe 3 O 4 was used for six cycles without significant loss in adsorptive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Magnetic bio-composite was fabricated using curcumin and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles. The structure and morphology of the resin (CG) and the curcumin based magnetic nanocomposite (CMNC) was analyzed by several techniques. The CMNC was applied as an adsorbent which revealed outstanding abilities for the adsorption of Hg(II) ions. The equilibrium data coincided with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm indicating the maximum adsorption capacity of CMNC 144.9 mg/g for Hg(II). The adsorption kinetic was well-defined by the pseudo-first-order. The thermodynamic results showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic at the studied temperatures. The cycling adsorption/desorption tests were made by using 0.1 mol/L hydrochloric acid solution which revealed that CMNC had good reusable ability up to four cycles. It can be suggested from the results that CMNC could be easily and efficiently used for the removal of Hg(II) from aqueous solution. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Curcumin based biocomposite (CMNC) was successfully prepared and characterized. • The biocomposites have high adsorption capacity and selectivity for Hg(II) ions. • The adsorption kinetic data was described very well by pseudo-first-order model. • The CMNC was regenerated by simply washing with 0.01 M HCl solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a facial synthesis of Sn/SnO 2 nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen doped carbon based nanocomposites has been disclosed which was used as a fast and high-performance NH 3 gas sensor. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by various analytical technique including FTIR, TGA/DTA, Raman, XRD, FESEM, TEM/HRTEM and XPS. The presence of both Sn and SnO 2 nanoparticles in carbon matrix are supported by FTIR, Raman and XRD. The XRD analysis showed the tetragonal crystal phase of SnO 2 nanoparticles, and the BET results revealed 148.9 m 2  g −1 surface area of the nanocomposite. Furthermore, SEM image showed that Sn and SnO 2 nanoparticles were well dispersed in the nitrogen doped carbon matrix. The fabricated sensor was characterized against various concentration of NH 3 and the results indicated that the prepared sensor showed excellent responses at 65 °C working temperature, with 300 ppm concentration of NH 3 and the sensitivity was observed 172.70. Additionally, the fabricated sensor also showed quick response and the recovery time of 60 s and 55 s, respectively. The fabricated sensor with its quick response and recovery time, good repeatability, excellent selectivity, and slight humidity effects has the potential and could be used as NH 3 sensor on industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the combination of low and high-bandgap energy materials through an ion-mediated chemical transformation of the nanostructure of one material into another, especially metal chalcogenide quantum dot (QD) solar cells plays a very important role in the fast charge transformation process with high power conversion efficiencies (PCE) by reducing surface charge recombinations. Based on a coordination chemistry approach, the present study demonstrates the importance of cation-exchange process in developing bandgap engineering of tin oxide–cadmium selenide (SnO2–CdSe) with zinc selenide (ZnSe) and tin selenide (SnSe) to form SnO2–CdSe/ZnSe and SnO2–CdSe/SnSe electrodes, respectively. Experimental conditions are optimized from optical and photovoltaic performances. Our best performing cation-exchange interface-modified photoelectrochemical devices, i.e., SnO2–CdSe/ZnSe and SnO2–CdSe/SnSe have achieved improvements of 21% and 28%, respectively, in their PEC values, i.e., 3.78% and 4.41% with remarkable current densities of 19.82 and 28.40 mA cm−2 when compared with SnO2–CdSe (1.63% and 9.74 mA cm−2). This is due to (a) the fast transfer of photo-generated electrons from the CdSe QD sensitizer to SnO2 photoanode by engineering a synergistically favourable band gap and (b) mitigation of a reverse photogenerated electron flow in the presence of a high band gap buffer ZnSe/SnSe layer, which would otherwise cause excessive recombinations. A simple cation-exchange interface modification process can, in general, pave the way for improving the performance of QD-based solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectin based quaternary amino anion exchanger (Pc-QAE) was prepared using simple crosslinking polymerization method. This anion exchanger was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Pc-QAE was applied for the removal of phosphate anion from the aqueous solution. The adsorption process which was pH dependent showed maximum adsorption of phosphate anions at pH 7. Pc-QAE showed good monolayer adsorption capacity for phosphate anions which demonstrated its good capability towards Langmuir isotherm model. Moreover, the adsorption was evaluated thermodynamically and the negative value of Gibbs free energy (−1.791 KJ/mol) revealed the spontaneity of adsorption process. The value of ΔH° and ΔS° were found to be 15.28 and 49.48 KJ/mol, respectively representing the endothermic nature and enhancement in degree of freedom due to the adsorption process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel ferrite bearing nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (NiFe 2 O 4 -NC) was prepared using polymer bimetal complexes and used for the removal of Hg 2+ from aqueous medium. The nanocomposite was characterized using several analytical techniques such as SEM, TEM, FTIR, Raman, TGA/DTA, XRD, VSM, XPS and BET. The adsorption behavior of NiFe 2 O 4 -NC nanocomposites was investigated via adsorption kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamic. The adsorption isotherm could be well described with Langmuir model, with the maximum adsorption capacity of 476.2 mg g −1 at 25 °C. The desorption results showed the best recovery of Hg 2+ metal ion using 0.01 M HCl. The remarkable adsorption properties are mainly attributed to the synergetic chemical coupling effects between NiFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles and nitrogen doped graphitized carbon. The presented cost-effective strategy is developed to prepared NiFe 2 O 4 nanocrystals embedded in nitrogen-doped graphitized carbon matrix using a single source precursor offers prospects in developing highly effective magnetic adsorbent for removal of toxic pollutant form contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work we report Gum-ghatti supported ZnSe-WO 3 nano-hetero-assembly for solar powered degradation of endocrine disruptor Bisphenol S (BPA). The photocatalyst was characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Small area electron diffraction (SAED), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR), Photoluminescence (PL), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), UV–vis spectrophotometry and Brauner Emmet Teller surface area analyzer (BET). We achieve a Z-scheme photocatalyst (ZnSe-WO 3 ) with a higher charge flow and visible absorption. Gum ghatti acts as a superadsorbent and a sink for charge carriers. The removal of BPA has been studied under three experimental protocols where 99.5% removal was achieved by symbiose of photocatalysis-adsorption-ozonation in just 45 min hetero-assembly has a high surface area, stability and reduced carrier recombination. The results have been analyzed by scavenger effect, mass spectrometry, kinetics and total organic carbon (TOC) analysis. 49.4% of TOC was removed and COD was reduced to 16.7% after 2 h in symbiotic condition. From the band edges and scavenger effect it was inferred that superoxide radical anions are major attacking species. The work paves way for designing of novel photocatalysts with increasing biogenic quotient and higher efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports the first demonstration of zirconium oxide (ZrO) as a photoanode and rose bengal (RB) as a sensitizer. ZrO photoanode films were deposited on indium-doped tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass substrate by doctor blade technique. ZrO photoanodes were sensitized by rose bengal dye. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was applied to reveal the surface morphological changes for the RB-sensitized and unsensitized ZrO photoanodes. Using UV-vis spectrophotometer, optical absorption analyses were carried out for the RB-sensitized photoanodes. Platinum-coated ITO electrode was used as a counter electrode for electrons collection. The electron transfer at the interfaces was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The device fabricated using the photoanode with dye loading time of 24 h performed better, it showed the photocurrent density ( J ), open-circuit voltage ( V ), and fill factor ( FF) of about 0.01 mA/cm, 258 mV, and 34%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconium oxide (ZrO) is acquiring considerable attention of most of the research groups and leading to a large number of publications due to its unique properties, especially in the context of emerging trends in the third generation of solar cell research. ZrO films offer magnificent aspects related to physicochemical properties, and the properties are found to be dependent on synthesis methods. In the present review, various deposition techniques used to grow zirconium oxide thin films and their application to enhance the quantum efficiency of titanium oxide (TiO) based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are discussed. Also, the modulated performances of DSSCs fabricated by growing the conformal ZrO insulating films to retard interfacial recombination dynamics on preformed TiO films are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the determination of noxious heavy metals, cadmium (Cd), bismuth (Bi), mercury (Hg), titanium (Ti), lead (Pb) and metalloid arsenic (As) in skin‐whitening cosmetics were examined using microwave digestion and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry method. A complete digestion of cosmetics samples was achieved using a mixture of hydrofluoric acid/hydrogen peroxide/nitric acid. The quantification of the target compounds was done by standard addition method. The excellent quality parameters for instance, detection limits, As (4.6 ppb), Bi (7.9 ppb), Cd (0.45 ppb), Hg (3.3 ppb), Pb (3.8 ppb), Ti (4.3 ppb), linearity (r2 > 0.999) and run‐to‐run and day‐to‐day precisions with relative standard deviations <3% were obtained. The recovery rates for standard reference materials were found between 90 and 105%. The average concentration of heavy metals in cosmetics samples were in the range of 1.0–12.3 (μg g−1, As), 33–7097 (μg g−1, Bi), 0.20–0.6 (μg g−1, Cd), 0.70–2700 (μg g−1, Hg), 1.20–143 (μg g−1, Pb) and 2.0–1650 (μg g−1, Ti). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an effective and novel nanocomposite (Fe 3 O 4 @TAS) was prepared and applied for the removal of Cd(II), Cr(III) and Co(II) from liquid medium. The mechanism for the adsorption was elucidated by investigating the adsorption kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamics, thoroughly. The maximum adsorption capacities as found by the Langmuir model were 286, 370 and 270 mg g −1 for Cd(II), Cr(III) and Co(II), respectively. The structure, size, porosity and magnetic property, of the prepared magnetic nanocomposite were investigated by FT-IR, XPS, SEM-EDX, BET, XRD, HRTEM and VSM analyses. The saturation magnetization and BET surface area for Fe 3 O 4 @TAS were 41.4 emu g −1 and 210.34 m 2 g −1 , respectively. Fe 3 O 4 @TAS was easily separated from aqueous solution using external magnet and it was regenerated by simple washing with 0.01 M HCl solution. The thermodynamic parameters showed that the involved process was spontaneous and exothermic. The findings inferred that Fe 3 O 4 @TAS had the efficiency in treating wastewater with coexisting metals such as Cd(II), Cr(III) and Co(II) metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we have synthesized a starch/poly(alginic acid-cl-acrylamide) nanohydrogel (ST/PL(AA-c!-AAm) NHG) by co-polymerization method which was used as an effective adsorbent for the removal of coomassie brilliant (CB) blue R-250 dye from the aqueous solution. The synthesized nanohydrogel was characterized by FTIR, SEM and TEM techniques. The effect of initial dye concentration, temperature, and agitation time on the adsorption ability of the nanohydrogel was studied comprehensively. The experimental outcomes exhibited that the prepared nanohydrogel had high adsorption tendency to remove the CB from the aqueous solution. The regression coefficient values for Langmuir (0.99), Frendluich (0.93) and Tempkin (0.98) recommended that adsorption process fit to langmuir isotherm. The pseudo-second-order equation showed the better adsorption kinetics of the adsorption process. The feasibility of CB adsorption onto ST/PL(AA-cI-AAm) NHG was also studied thermodynamically and the results indicated that the adsorption was spontaneous and chemical in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the effect of various natural food condiments (garlic, ginger, pepper, tomato and onion) on the formation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) in cooked camel meat was studied. In control sample, the amount of HAs MeIQx, 4,8-DiMeIQx and PhIP were obtained between 2.10 and 5.22 ng/g, while, MeIQ and IQ were found less than quantification limit. The camel meat cooked with different food condiments, the HAs were found in lesser amounts. MeIQx, 4,8-DiMeIQx and PhIP were detected from 0.42 to 2.83 ng/g, however, MeIQ and IQ were not indentified in any analyzed samples. Consequently, camel meat cooked by various food condiments illustrates the capability to reduce the HAs formation. Such information may be elucidated because of the presence of antioxidants in such condiments which might have pro-oxidative effects with the subsequent formation of peroxyl radicals or by the scavenging of oxygen or free radicals. Practical Applications This is the first study relating to the inhibition of HAs by means of some common food condiments in cooked camel meat. In this work, five HAs such as MeIQx, 4,8-DiMeIQx, PhIP, MeIQ and IQ have been studied in camel meat samples thermally processed with or without food condiments. Our results evidently demonstrate that the formation of HAs in cooked camel meat is highly affected by using food condiments. The current study also illustrates that the concentrations of HAs can be kept at low levels by cooking the meat that include food condiments. The obtained results could be used to estimate the human intake of HAs either in Saudi Arabia or global and supplied to the search of good food condiments that reduce the threat of exposure to HAs, and thus to advance the food security and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, chitosan- crosslinked -poly (alginic acid) nanohydrogel ( CN-cl-PL(AA) NHG) was synthesized by co-polymerization method. It was used an effective adsorbent for the exclusion of Cr(VI) metal ion from aqueous medium. The synthesized nanohydrogel was characterized by FTIR, SEM and TEM. The TEM images clearly indicated the appearance of smooth surface with average size of particles ranging from 30 to 80 nm. The effect of different adsorption parameters like agitation time, temperature, initial metal ion concentration and adsorbent dosage was studied and optimized. The results demonstrated that the prepared chitosan- crosslinked -poly (alginic acid) nanohydrogel had high adsorption tendency for the removal of Cr(VI) from the aqueous solution. The pseudo-second-order equation represented the better adsorption kinetics for the adsorption process. The thermodynamic studies showed the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto CN-cl-PL(AA) NHG was spontaneous and chemical in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, trisodium citrate based magnetite nanocomposite (Fe3O4-TSC) was used for malachite green (MG) dye expulsion from aqueous medium. The adsorption tests were executed at different parameters. The maximum adsorption were took place at pH 4 in 40 min. The equilibrium studies were demonstrated using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms and better agreement was attained with the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacity (qe) was calculated 435 mg g-1 using Langmuir equation. The kinetic parameters displayed that MG adsorption onto Fe3O4-TSC followed pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Furthermore, the thermodynamic analysis suggested the adsorption of MG onto Fe3O4-TSC was impulsive and exothermic. The desorption studies showed the best recovery of MG dye in 0.1 M HCl. Finally, it was found that Fe3O4-TSC can be effortlessly separated from mixed solutions using external magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, starch based nanocomposite (starch/SnO 2 ) was synthesized and used as an effective adsorbent for the removal of Hg 2+ from aqueous medium. The as-prepared starch/SnO 2 nanocomposite was characterized by means of the XPS, XRD, BET, FTIR, SEM and TEM analyses. The effects of contact time, pH, initial Hg 2+ concentration and temperature on the adsorption performance of starch/SnO 2 nanocomposite were investigated thoroughly. The experimental results showed that starch/SnO 2 nanocomposite had high ability to remove Hg 2+ ion from aqueous medium. The adsorption of Hg 2+ was maximum at the pH 6 and equilibrium was achieved within 60 min. The pseudo-second-order equation represented the adsorption kinetics with high correlation coefficient (>0.998) and the Freundlich isotherm model fitted the adsorption data better than the Langmuir. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 192 mg g −1 at 25 °C which was increased with the temperature, indicated the endothermic adsorption. The feasibility of Hg 2+ adsorption onto starch/SnO 2 nanocomposite was also studied thermodynamically and the results showed that the adsorption was spontaneous and chemical in nature. The adsorption capacity of the regenerated adsorbents could still be maintained at 94% by the fourth adsorption–desorption cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examination of highly proficient photoactive materials for the degradation of antibiotics from the aqueous solution is the need of the hour. In the present study, a 2D/2D binary junction GCM, formed between graphitic-carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) and molybdenum disulphide (MoS 2), was synthesized using facile hydrothermal method and its photo-efficacy was tested for the degradation of sulfasalazine (SUL) from aqueous solution under visible-light irradiation. Morphological analysis indicated the nanosheets arrangement of MoS 2 and g-C 3 N 4. The visible-light driven experiments indicated that 97% antibiotic was degraded by GCM-30% within 90 min which was found to be quite high than pristine g-C 3 N 4 and MoS 2 at solution pH of 6, GCM-30% dose of 20 mg, and SUL concentration of 20 mgL−1. The degradation performance of GCM-30% was selectively improved due to enhanced visible-light absorption, high charge carrier separation, and high redox ability of the photogenerated charges which was induced by the effective Z-scheme 2D/2D heterojunction formed between g-C 3 N 4 and MoS 2. The reactive radicals as determined by the scavenging study were •O 2 −, and h+. A detailed degradation mechanism of SUL by GCM-30% was also predicted based on the detailed examination of the band gaps of g-C 3 N 4 and MoS 2. [Display omitted] • 2D/2D layered heterojunction of g-C 3 N 4 /MoS 2 showed high degradation performance. • Sulfasalazine degradation was high for consecutive adsorption-photodegradation. • Proper alignment of MoS 2 and g-C 3 N 4 in heterojunction enhanced degradation rate. • Effective & sufficient production of reactive radicals enhanced the removal rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, an ionic liquid (IL) based on 1-butyl-3- (trimethoxysilylpropyl) -imidazolium tetrafluoroborate (IL) was prepared using metathesis and anion exchange reactions and used to stabilize silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles. The IL-stabilized silver nanoparticles AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 were produced in an aqueous solution with NaBH 4 as a reducing agent. TGA, FTIR, XRD, BET, FSEM, TEM/HRTEM, XPS, and UV–Vis spectra were used to analyze AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 and were used for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) in the presence of NaBH 4. AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 showed excellent catalytic properties for the reduction of 4-NP to 4-AP and showed 100% conversion of 4-NP to 4-AP within 6 min and the rate constant (k) was found to be 8.33 × 10−3 s−1. The reusability results indicated that 97.8% of 4-NP was converted to 4-AP with highly stable rate constants over six consecutive cycles. The activity factor (AF) and the turn-over frequency (TOF) at room temperature were 3.33 s−1 gm−1 and 0.166 s−1, respectively. This study extends a new approach to the production of stable catalysts for the growing needs in wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • Ionic liquid-stabilized silver nanoparticles AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 were produced. • AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 was used for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol. • AgNPs@[BMSI]BF 4 showed 100% conversion from 4-PNP to 4-AP within 6 min. • Reusability showed that 97.8% 4-NP converted to 4-AP over 4 successive cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new surfactant-based nanocomposite cation exchanger, sodium dodecyl sulfate-Th(IV) tungstate (SDS-TT) was prepared by the sol-gel method. The SDS-TT was characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM, EDS and TEM. The distribution studies for various metal ions on SDS-TT were performed in different acidic mediums. On the basis of distribution coefficient values, SDS-TT was found to be selective for Cu metal ion. SDS-TT was successfully used for the quantitative separation of Cu from the synthetic mixture, pharmaceutical formulation and brass sample. The regeneration studies were performed which showed a decrease in the recovery of Cu from 88 to 70 % after seven consecutive cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater is contaminated water that must be treated before it may be transferred into other rivers and lakes in order to prevent further groundwater pollution. Over the last decade, research has been conducted on a wide variety of contaminants, but the emerging contaminants are those caused primarily by micropollutants, endocrine disruptors (EDs), pesticides, pharmaceuticals, hormones, and toxins, as well as industrially-related synthetic dyes and dye-containing hazardous pollutants. Most emerging pollutants did not have established guidelines, but even at low concentrations they could have harmful effects on humans and aquatic organisms. In order to combat the above ecological threats, huge efforts have been done with a view to boosting the effectiveness of remediation procedures or developing new techniques for the detection, quantification and efficiency of the samples. The increase of interest in biotechnology and environmental engineering gives an opportunity for the development of more innovative ways to water treatment remediation. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of emerging sources of contaminants, detection technologies, and treatment strategies. The goal of this review is to evaluate adsorption as a method for treating emerging pollutants, as well as sophisticated and cost-effective approaches for treating emerging contaminants. • This review focuses on high-risk emerging contaminants (ECs) in the environment. • ECs are explored in terms of their occurrence, sources and important mechanisms. • The negative environmental and health effects of ECs are addressed. • Numerous emerging pollutants and improvements in their remediation are reviewed. • Recent progress and possible advances in emerging pollutant adsorption are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel bio-based polymeric adsorbent curcumin formaldehyde resin (CFR) was synthesized via polycondensation of curcumin (a natural bis-phenol) and formaldehyde. The synthesized resin (CFR) was characterized using various analytical techniques such as CHN, FTIR, TGA-DTA-DSC, NMR, BET, SEM and EDX. The CFR was effectively used for the removal of phenol which is one of the most common organic pollutants in the environment. Batch experiments were performed as a function of various experimental parameters such as effect of contact time (5-120 min), pH (2-8), initial phenol concentration (100-500 mg L-1) and temperature (30-65 °C). The removal rate of phenol using CFR was very fast and equilibrium established within 60 min. Kinetic studies showed better applicability for pseudo-second-order model. The applicability of Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models was investigated and the Freundlich isotherm exhibited the best fit with the experimental data. The antimicrobial activities of CFR were also conducted against several bacteria and fungi. These results clearly indicated the efficiency of CFR as an ecofriendly bio-adsorbent for the wastewaters treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to review and present the state of the arte about the status of toxic elements (TEs) in soils and assess the potential risk using single and total complex pollution indices in a global scale. We compiled, integrated, and analyzed soil TE pollution data over almost a decade through key maps, which have not been reviewed up to date. All the in-situ and ex-situ remediation treatments have been also reviewed, illustrated, and compared, for the first time. The future perspectives have been discussed and summarized. This review demonstrates that the cornerstone maps and integrated information provide reliable geographical coordinates and inclusive information on TEs pollution, particularly in China. In-situ treatment approaches for TEs polluted soils are more cost-effective and applicable than ex-situ treatment trials. Selecting a feasible remediation strategy should to take the extent of contamination, treatment objectives, site characteristics, cost-efficiency, and public suitability into account. The summarized findings in this review may help to develop innovative and applicable methods for assessing the global soil pollution by TEs. Also, these findings may help to develop innovative, applicable, and feasibly economic methods for sustainable management of TEs contaminated soils to mitigate the environmental and human health risk. [Display omitted] • Assessment of complex soil indices is crucial for soil quality investigation. • Maps are favorable for geographical coordinate and toxic element (TE) concentration. • Various decontamination strategies have been established for TE contaminated soils. • In situ treatments of TE contaminated soils is more cost-effective than ex-situ ones. • Contaminated soil data is essential for the selection of the best treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • FeWO 4 /NC based nanocomposites were fabricated by hydrothermal process. • The FeWO 4 /NC nanocomposite showed the high porosity and excellent photocatalytic activity. • The degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIF) under visible light. • The scavenger trapping as well as EPR experiments show the role of active species. In this study, we fabricate a highly optical active photocatalytic FeWO 4 /NC by hydrothermal process and characterized. The fabricated photocatalyst was used for the degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIF) under visual light. The initial concentration, contact time and the pH of the solution variate the degradation of CIP in aqueous solution. The scavenger effect was carried out to determine the hole, radicals and the photogenerated species used for the degradation. The FeWO 4 /NC-800showed excellent photodegradation of CIP because of its larger surface area and porous structure. Around 92.23% of the degradation of these pharmaceuticals was achieved within 100 min. The kinetic results support the degradation was carried out via first order kinetics and the rate constant was found to be 0.0240 min−1. The FeWO 4 /NC-800 nanocomposite would be a good candidate for CIP degradation by photocatalysis in contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we have fabricated novel magnetic ionic liquid based nanocomposites using 1-butylimidazole, (3-bromopropyl)-trimethoxysilane and NiFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. [NiFe 2 O 4 @-BMSI]HSO 4 was synthesized from [NiFe 2 O 4 @-BMSI]Br via ion-exchange process. The fabricated nanocomposites were characterized by various analytical techniques. The surface area was determined using N 2 adsorption-desorption analysis and the BET surface area of [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]Br and [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]HSO 4 was noted to be 89.21 and 87.21 m2/g, respectively. The fabricated nanocomposites were used as catalyst for the transesterification of palm oil (VO) for the production of biodiesel. The results revealed that [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]HSO 4 exhibited better performance in terms of biodiesel yield; a maximum i.e. 86.4% yield was obtained using [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]HSO 4 while in the case of NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]Br, about ~74.6% yield was found with 5% (w/w) catalyst loading, 353 K and to CH 3 OH ratio of 1:12 in 8 h. The reusability of the catalyst results revealed that the catalytic activity of the catalysts still remained about 92.7% and 88.1% with NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]HSO 4 and NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]Br, respectively after six cycles which may be accredited to the handling loss during the manipulation process. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of magnetic nanoparticles supported ionic liquid catalyst • Transesterification of vegetable oil to produce biodiesel using [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI] HSO 4 and [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]Br • [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]HSO 4 showed better performance in terms of biodiesel yield (86.4%) than [NiFe 2 O 4 @BMSI]Br (74.6) • The fabricated catalysts were reused up to six times without significant loss of catalytic activity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, starch based ZnO nancomposite (CSt-ZnO) was synthesized for the efficient removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous medium. The structure and morphology of CSt-ZnO nancomposite was characterized using SEM, FTIR, TGA, BET, XPS and zeta potential measurements. The effect of contact time, pH, temperature and initial concentration of Pb(II) on the adsorption was studied. The optimum parameters for maximum Pb(II) removal were time-120 min; pH-6; temperature-318 K and C o –20 ppm. The maximum Langmuir adsorption capacity of CSt-ZnO nancomposite was 256.4 mg/g at 298 K. With increasing the temperature from 298 K to 318 K, the maximum adsorption quantity (q m) was improved from 256.4 to 476 mg/g which showed the endothermic nature of Pb(II) adsorption on CSt-ZnO nanocomposite. The sorption isotherm and kinetics model fitting studies, confirmed that data fit well to Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-first-order kinetics models, respectively. Thermodynamic studies inferred a spontaneous and endothermic nature of adsorption. Moreover, the adsorption capacity was 68% even after four adsorption-desorption cycles which revealed the reusable performance of CSt-ZnO was well. The antimicrobial activity of CSt-ZnO nanocomposite was also examined against S. aureus and E. coli. ga1 • CSt-ZnO nanocomposite was prepared by mixing the suspension slurry of cross-linked starch and the gel of ZnO. • CSt-ZnO nanocomposite had high adsorption capacity for Pb(II) removal and good reusability. • Pb(II) was efficiently eluted using 0.1 M HCl and CSt-ZnO was effectively recycled. • The antibacterial activity of CSt-ZnO nanocomposite was studied against S. aureus and E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blue baby syndrome (methemoglobinemia) disease and algae growth (eutrophication) was occurred due to surplus nitrate (NO 3 −) and phosphate (PO 4 3−) in aqueous solution. To overcome these problems, in this study zirconium (Zr(IV)) incorporated gelatin (Gel)/kaolin (KN) (GelKN) composite namely Zr@GelKN biocomposite was synthesized for effective retention of NO 3 − and PO 4 3−. The significant instrumentation studies like TGA, BET, FTIR and SEM with EDAX of the adsorbent materials were carried out. The parameters accountable for adsorption were optimized in a good manner. The metal ion assisted polymeric clay composite involves the electrostatic attraction, ion-exchange and complexation mechanism on NO 3 − and PO 4 3− removal. The kinetics, thermodynamic parameters and isotherms were explored at different temperature. To diminish the cost of Zr@GelKN composite the regeneration study was performed. The applicability of Zr@GelKN composite was also examined for the collected field waste-water sample. Unlabelled Image • Zr@GelKN composite was synthesized and utilized for NO 3 − and PO 4 3− remediation. • The rapid construction of composite was occurred in the presence of Zr(IV) ion. • The protonation of Zr@GelKN composite leads to electrostatic attraction on NO 3 −/PO 4 3−. • The developed Zr@GelKN composite was found to be easily reusable and cost-effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a polymeric nanocomposite, CoFe2O4@DHBF, was fabricated using 2,4 dihydroxybenzaldehyde and formaldehyde in basic medium with CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. The fabricated nanocomposite was characterized using FTIR, TGA, XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS analyses. The analytical results revealed that the magnetic nanocomposite was fabricated successfully with high surface area 370.24 m2/g. The fabricated CoFe2O4@DHBF was used as an efficient adsorbent for the adsorption of U(VI) and Eu(III) ions from contaminated water. pH, initial concentration, adsorption time, and the temperature of the contaminated water solution affecting the adsorption ability of the nanocomposites were studied. The batch adsorption results exposed that the adsorption capacity for the removal of U(VI) and Eu(III) was found to be 237.5 and 225.5 mg/g. The adsorption kinetics support that both the metal ions follow second order adsorption kinetics. The adsorption isotherm well fits with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and the correlation coefficient (R2) values were found to be 0.9920 and 0.9913 for the adsorption of U(VI) and Eu(III), respectively. It was noticed that the fabricated nanocomposites show excellent regeneration ability and about 220.1 and 211.3 mg/g adsorption capacity remains with U(VI) and Eu(III) under optimum conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CoP embedded in N, P co-doped carbon nanocomposite was fabricated successfully. • The fabricated CoP-NPC is highly porous with surface area about to 812 m2g−1. • The fabricated catalyst exhibited an excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic activity. • The fabricated catalyst exhibited show excellent stability. In this study, cobalt phosphide nanoparticles embedded with N/P doped carbon matrix was fabricated using hydrothermal and post calcination method of cobalt polymeric complex. The fabricated nanocomposite [CoP-NPC] was characterized using several analytical techniques and used as a bi-functional catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The results revealed that the CoP nanoparticles were fabricated successfully and embedded in N/P doped carbon. The BET surface area of the nanocomposite was found to be 812.2 m2g−1 and the pore width was found 9 nm. The overpotential for HER and OER were found to 318 mV and 414 mV at 10 mA cm−2 respectively in 1.0 M KOH solution. The CoP-NPC shows superb catalytic activity and excellent stability. In addition, this study providing a new low cost route for the fabrication of CoP into N/P doped carbon as efficient catalysts for water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel highly porous photocatalyst g-C 3 N 4 /MoS 2 -PANI (polyaniline) is fabricated successfully via an in-situ polymerization and is characterized via UV–vis DRS, FTIR, TGA, SEM, XRD, TEM, XPS and BET. The synergistic effect of MoS 2 and g-C 3 N 4 into PANI matrix prompted its outstanding catalytic activities for bisphenol-A (BPA) degradation in liquid solution. The photocatalytic efficiency of the photocatalyst reaches to about 92.66% degradation of BPA that was recorded within 60 min. The scavenger or radical trapping effect supports the role of the photogenerated species and its interaction for the degradation of BPA. The chemical kinetics and possible photocatalytic degradation mechanism were also described and supported theoretical calculation DFT. Moreover, the fabricated nanocomposite exhibits outstanding reusability and shows excellent catalytic activity after six cycles, offering a facile and active process for the treatment of toxic organic pollutants under visible light and that can be used for the environmental remediation. Unlabelled Image • MoS 2 /g-C 3 N 4 -PANI was fabricated successfully. • MoS 2 /g-C 3 N 4 -PANI shows enhanced photocatalytic activity for BPA degradation. • The photocatalytic rate of BPA was found to be 92.66% after 60 min. • Photocatalytic degradation mechanism and intermediates of BPA was identified. • The hybrid catalyst is found to be stable for repeated cycles of experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the designing of a C3N4/BiOI heterostructure that is supported on gum acacia-crosslinked-poly(acrylamide) hydrogel to fabricate a novel nanocomposite hydrogel. The potential application of the obtained nanocomposite hydrogel to remediate crystal violet dye (CVD) in an aqueous solution was explored. The structural and functional analysis of the nanocomposite hydrogel was performed by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The different reaction parameters, such as CVD concentration, nanocomposite hydrogel dosage, and working pH, were optimized. The C3N4/BiOI heterostructure of the nanocomposite hydrogel depicts Z-scheme as the potential photocatalytic mechanism for the photodegradation of CVD. The degradation of CVD was also specified in terms of COD and HR-MS analysis was carried to demonstrate the major degradation pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heavy metal ions pollution is serious threat for aquatic and terrestrial living beings. The adsorption is facile process to encounter the heavy metal pollution. Various types of adsorbents have been developed and used for environmental remediation. The activated carbon is one of the cheapest adsorbent derived from various biomass sources and coupled with diverse materials to fabricate superior adsorbents. In the present work, datestone activated carbon-based zirconium oxide (DSAC/ZrO 2) composite was fabricated and characterized by XRD, SEM, BET and SEM. The surface area, pore volume and average pore diameter of DSAC/ZrO 2 were 153.4 m2 g−1, 0.04 cm3 g−1 and 8.8 nm, respectively. Using batch experiments, sorption of cadmium ions was explored onto DSAC/ZrO 2 composite. To have detail insight into sorption process; the isotherm, kinetics and thermodynamic studies were also performed. The experimental equilibrium data for cadmium adsorption using DSAC/ZrO 2 composite was well fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model and showed the q m 166.7 mg/g at 25 °C. The negative and positive values of ΔG° and ΔH° indicated that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic, respectively. Unlabelled Image • Datestone activated carbon zirconium oxide (DSAC/ZrO 2) composite was prepared by facile method. • Adsorption of cadmium ions was investigated onto DSAC/ZrO 2. • Langmuir isotherm fits well to cadmium ions adsorption onto DSAC/ZrO 2. • The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 166.7 mg/g at 25 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CuO/CuS embedded into N/S-doped was fabricated successfully. • The CuO/CuS @NSC nanocomposite showed the high porosity. • The CuO/CuS @NSC nanocomposite show excellent sensing behavior against NH 3 at room temperature. • Stability performance of the CuO/CuS @NSC sensor over six cycles. A novel nanocomposite based sensor was fabricated for NH 3 gas sensing in using hydrothermal and post calcination method. The composition, morphological, crystallinity and electrochemical properties of the nanocomposites were carried out using corresponding analytical technique. The sensing performances were carried out with several sensing parameters such as sensor response, repeatability, stability, resistance variation and selectivity. The sensor exhibited the excellent sensitivity and its response to 100 ppm NH 3 was 206.15, and it has relatively short response and recovery time of 24 s and 22 s for 100 ppm NH 3 , respectively. The sensor also exhibited excellent selectivity, good reproducibility and perfect response-concentration linearity to NH 3 at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA was prepared and applied for the adsorptive removal of Pb(II) metal. • The maximum adsorption capacity for Pb(II) was 205.2 mg/g at pH 5.7 and 298 K. • Thermodynamic confirmed the spontaneous and exothermic adsorption. • The nanocomposite adsorbent was ease of separate and reusability. Herein, a novel nanocomposite (Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA) was prepared and used for adsorptive removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous environment. The magnetic nanocomposite (Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA) was characterized using FTIR, TEM, SEM, EDX, element mapping analysis (EMA), TGA analysis, XRD patterns, VSM, BET analysis, XPS spectrum, and zeta potential. The FTIR study confirmed the modification of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles with triaminetriethoxysilane and 2-aminoterephthalic acid while XPS analysis (with peaks at 283.6, 285.1, 286.3, 284.5.0, 288.4 eV) displayed the presence of C Si, C N, O C NH, C C/C C and O C O functional groups, respectively on Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA. The BET surface area, average pore size, pore volume and magnetization saturation for Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA were found to be 114 m2/g, 6.4 nm, 0.054 cm−3/g, and 22 emu/g, respectively. The adsorption isotherm data showed that Pb(II) adsorption onto Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA fitted to Langmuir and Dubinin–Raduskevich isotherm model due to better R2 value which was greater than 0.9 and q m of Pb(II) was 205.2 mg/g at pH 5.7 in 150 min. Adsorption kinetics data displayed that Pb(II) adsorption onto Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA was fitted to the pseudo-second-order and Elovich kinetic models. Thermodynamic outcomes exhibited the exothermic and spontaneous nature of adsorption. Results showed that Fe 3 O 4 @TATS@ATA nanocomposite was promising material for efficient removal of toxic Pb(II) from aqueous environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• AgNPs embedded into N/S-doped was fabricated using polymer complex. • The AgNPs@NSC nanocomposite showed the high porosity. • The AgNPs@NSC nanocomposite showed the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol. • Stable performance of the AgNPs@NSC catalysts over five cycles. In the present study, silver nanoparticles embedded N/S doped carbon (AgNPs@NSC) was synthesized by hydrothermal treatment of silver polymer complex. The formation of Ag nanoparticles in the N/S doped carbon (NSC) was confirmed via UV–Visible, FTIR, XRD, BET, XPS, and TEM analysis. The synthesized AgNPs@NSC nanocomposite exhibits excellent catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) into 4-nitrophenol (4-AP) in the presence of NaBH 4. The fabricated catalyst show excellent catalytic activities and take only 6 min for the reduction of 4-NP. Furthermore, the highly porosity of carbon retained good activity and stability after five cycles. The foregoing study clearly suggests that synthesis of AgNPs@NSC nanocomposite by this method is efficient towards the development of a newer and a novel catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MoS 2 /ZnS embedded into N/S-doped was fabricated using polymer complex. • The MoS 2 /ZnS@NSC nanocomposite showed the high porosity. • The MoS 2 /ZnS@NSC nanocomposite showed the photocatalytic degradation of dicofol pesticide. • The scavenger traping as well as EPR experiments show the role of active species used in degradation. A highly efficient, recyclable mesoporous catalyst has been prepared via hydrothermal and post-calcination methods. The prepared nanocomposite (MoS 2 /ZnS@NSC) was characterized via several analytical techniques and used as a photocatalyst for the degradation of dicofol pesticide under visible irradiation. The results reveal that the fabricated nanocomposite show excellent catalytic activity due to the formation of active photogenerated species such as ●OH, O 2 − and e− which was supported by scavenger traping as well as EPR experiments and show excellent reusability for the treatment of pesticide in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthy environment is necessary for growth and development of every living being. The deterioration of ecosystems due to discharge of inorganic and organic pollutants from different industries is one of the major problems. The major impact of these sources has been on our water resources. The literature studies revealed that from the age's humans are using various natural and synthetic materials for water purification. With Gradual development, these materials are modified and newer alternative materials are searched and fabricated. The present study relates to fabrication of novel Gum arabic-crosslinked-poly(acrylamide)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH nanocomposite hydrogel (GA-cl-poly(AAm)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH NCH) using simple copolymerization technique. The structural analysis of GA-cl-poly(AAm)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH NCH was performed by employing diverse modern analytical instrumentations such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The HRTEM and SEM micrographs clearly demonstrated the engulfment of Ni(OH) 2 and FeOOH particles within the nanohydrogel matrix. The photocatalytic performance of synthesized GA- cl -poly(AAm)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH NCH was investigated for photodegradation of methylene blue dye. All the parameters such as contact time, pH, concentration of methylene blue, NCH dosage and concentration of H 2 O 2 were optimized. It was noted that 75% methylene blue was degraded at optimized condition using GA- cl -poly(AAm)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH NCH in presence of H 2 O 2. Image 1056 • Gum Arabic-crosslinked-poly(acrylamide)/Ni(OH) 2 /FeOOH nanocomposite hydrogel was synthesized using copolymerization technique. • This nanocomposite hydrogel was used for the photodegradation of Methylene blue dye. • 75% methylene blue dye was degraded at optimized condition. • Efficient photocatalytic activity was observed even after 5 successive reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, para-aminobenzoic acid functionalized activated carbon (PABA@AC) was successfully synthesized and applied as an adsorbent for removal of malachite green dye (MG) from aqueous system. For characterization of the prepared PABA@AC composite, (FT-IR), (SEM) and (EDX) were used. Impact of many parameters such as pH, amount of PABA@AC composite (m), contact time (t), temperature (T), initial MG concentrations (C o) upon MG adsorption using PABA@AC was investigated to estimate the optimum parameter conditions for adsorption. The results showed that the optimized parameter values of pH solution, contact time, adsorbent dose, and temperature were 7, 240 min, 30 mg and 25 °C, correspondingly. The isotherm adsorption and kinetic studies showed that the adsorption process was well fitted to Langmuir isotherm and Pseudo-first-order kinetic models, respectively. The maximum MG adsorption capacity was 66.87 mg/g by Langmuir model. The thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption process was exothermic and spontaneous. Unlabelled Image • The coating of AC surface with Para-aminobenzoic acid allowed to obtain a composite. • PPABA@AC composite showed high adsorption capacity for MG dye. • Maximum MG adsorption capacity was 66.87 mg/g by Langmuir model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we have successfully developed 2-amino-5-guanidinopentanoic acid modified activated carbon (AGDPA@AC) for the effective removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous medium. The AGDPA@AC was characterized using different instrumental techniques viz., SEM, EDX, FTIR, TGA and zeta potential. The influence of different parameters viz. pH, initial MB concentration, contact time and temperature on the adsorption capacity was investigated. The maximum adsorption capacity of MB of on AGDPA@AC was found at pH 8 and 120 min. The maximum Langmuir adsorption capacity of AGDPA@AC was 219.9 mg/g at 25 °C. The adsorption followed Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second order kinetic models well. The result of thermodynamic data showed that the adsorption was spontaneous and exothermic in nature. The binding of MB dye onto AGDPA@AC surface was through electrostatic interactions. Regeneration studies indicated that the adsorbent could successfully retain MB, even after four cycles. The adsorption percent of AGDPA@AC for MB dye was 75% even after four adsorption-desorption cycles. Unlabelled Image • Arginine based composite (AGDPA@AC) was synthesized. • MB dye was efficiently removed using AGDPA@AC. • AGDPA@AC exhibited high adsorption capacity for MB dye. • The mechanism of adsorption was electrostatic interaction and π-π interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MCGHCOF beads were prepared and used for fluoride adsorption studies. • MCGHCOF beads remove fluoride both in standard and field water. • MCGHCOF beads are regenerable and regenerated upto six cycles. • MCGHCOF beads are providing water with safe fluoride levels. The developed biocompatible materials like covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and hydroxyapatite acquire significant defluoridation capacity (DC). But because of their powder nature, creates column blockage, pressure drop during field investigations and difficult in separation after fluoride adsorption. To address these problems, COFs and hydroxyapatite were fabricated in the usable form of beads using chitosan, gelatin and iron oxide materials as magnetic chitosan–gelatin/hydroxyapatite/covalent organic frameworks (MCGHCOF) bio-beads were developed and it was potentially applied for the removal of fluoride from water. The MCGHCOF bio-beads surface and their properties were described with FTIR, EDAX, SEM and XRD analysis. The adsorption studies were performed under the batch method. The HCO 3 – ion has a vital inhibitory effect on DC and this may be because of the similar ionic size of fluoride and HCO 3 –. The enhanced DC of MCGHCOF beads was found to be 4992 mgF-.kg−1 in 30 min at pH 7. Isotherm experimental data of fluoride adsorption was apt with Langmuir isotherm than Fruendlich and D-R isotherm models. The defluoridation system is endothermic and its spontaneous nature was demonstrated with thermodynamic studies. Kinetic studies of experimental data of fluoride adsorption were well-fitted with pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion. The complexation and electrostatic interaction play a predominant role in fluoride adsorption by MCGHCOF beads. The MCGHCOF bio-beads are stable and are reusable upto six cycles. The collected field water sample was examined using MCGHCOF beads and it reduced the fluoride concentration to the tolerable drinking water threshold as recommended by WHO (1.5 mg L−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]