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Micron-scale zero-valent iron (ZVI)-based material has been applied for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) decontamination in wastewater treatment and groundwater remediation, but the passivation problem has limited its field application. In this study, we combined aluminum chloride solution with ZVI (pcZVI-AlCl3) to enhance Cr(VI) removal behavior under aerobic conditions. The optimal pre-corrosion conditions were found to be 2.5 g/L ZVI, 0.5 mM AlCl3, and a 4 h preconditioning period. Different kinds of techniques were applied to detect the properties of preconditioned ZVI and corrosion products. The 57Fe Mössbauer spectra showed that proportions of ZVI, Fe3O4, and FeOOH in pcZVI-AlCl3 were 49.22%, 34.03%, and 16.76%, respectively. The formation of Al(OH)3 in the corrosion products improved its pHpzc (point of zero charge) for Cr(VI) adsorption. Continuous-flow experiments showed its great potential for Cr(VI) removal in field applications. The ZVI and corrosion products showed a synergistic effect in enhancing electron transfer for Cr(VI) removal. The mechanisms underlying Cr(VI) removal by pcZVI-AlCl3 included adsorption, reduction, and precipitation, and the contribution of adsorption was less. This work provides a new strategy for ZVI pre-corrosion to improve its longevity and enhance Cr(VI) removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Intended for management of waste from bioterrorist incident. • Potential for waste to not have to be transported as Category A Infectious Agent. • Potential for management of bio-contaminated waste with minimal worker exposure. • Successfully demonstrated at bench-scale and in field. Clean up following the wide-area release of a persistent biological agent has the potential to generate significant waste. Waste containing residual levels of biological contaminants may require off-site shipment under the U.S. Department of Transportation's (US DOT) solid waste regulations for Category A infectious agents, which has packaging and size limitations that do not accommodate large quantities. Treating the waste on-site to inactivate the bio-contaminants could alleviate the need for Category A shipping and open the possibility for categorizing the waste as conventional solid waste with similar shipping requirements as municipal garbage. To collect and package waste for on-site treatment, a semi-permeable nonwoven-based fabric was developed. The fabric was designed to contain residual bio-contaminants while providing sufficient permeability for penetration by a gaseous decontamination agent. The nonwoven fabric was tested in two bench-scale experiments. First, decontamination efficacy and gas permeability were evaluated by placing test coupons inoculated with spores of a Bacillus anthracis surrogate inside the nonwoven material. After chlorine dioxide fumigation, the coupons were analyzed for spore viability and results showed a ≥6 Log reduction on all test materials except glass. Second, filters cut from the nonwoven material were tested in parallel with commercially available cellulose acetate filters having a known pore size (0.45 μm) and results demonstrate that the two materials have similar permeability characteristics. Overall, results suggest that the nonwoven material could be used to package waste at the point of generation and then moved to a nearby staging area where it could be fumigated to inactivate bio-contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This research study investigated the effect of new decontamination protocols on the bonding capacity of saliva-contaminated monolithic zirconia (MZ) ceramics cemented with two different monomer-containing self-adhesive resin cements. Materials and Methods. Standardized tooth preparations (4 mm. axial height) were performed for eighty human maxillary premolars under constant water cooling system. Eighty monolithic zirconia crowns (Whitepeaks Supreme Monolith) (n = 8 / 10 groups) were manufactured by CAD-CAM. Specimens were kept in the artificial saliva at pH = 7.3 for 1 minute at 37°C except control groups. The specimens have not been prealumina blasted and grouped according to cleaning methods and resin cements: control groups (C) (no saliva contamination + GPDM + 4 ‐ META (N) (CN) and 10-MDP (M) containing resin cement (CM), alumina blasted AL + GPDM + 4 ‐ META (ALN) and 10-MDP containing resin cement (ALM), zirconium oxide containing universal cleaning agent (IC) applied + GPDM + 4 ‐ META (N) (ICN) and 10-MDP containing resin cement (ICM), pumice (P) applied + GPDM + 4 ‐ META (PN) and 10-MDP containing resin cement (PM), and air-water spray (AW) applied + GPDM + 4 ‐ META (AWN) and 10-MDP containing resin cement (AWM)). Monobond Plus was applied to all surfaces for 40 seconds before cementation. The thermal cycle was applied at 5,000 cycles after cementation. The crowns were tested in tensile mode at a speed of 1 mm/min. The mode of failure was recorded. SEM examinations were carried out at different magnifications. Data were analyzed using rank-based Kruskal-Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests. Results. No significant differences were found between the surface treatments and between the two types of resin cements. Interaction effects between surface treatments and resin cements were found to be significant by two-way ANOVA analysis. ICM group resulted in significantly better bond strength results compared with CN. ICM was found to result in better bond strength results compared with PM. The combination of universal cleaning agent and 10-MDP containing resin cement had significantly the highest cementation bond strength values. The increasing order of mean tensile bond strength values of decontamination protocols was C < AW < P < AL < IC. The mean tensile bond strength of 10-MDP containing resin cement was slightly higher than GPDM + 4 ‐ META containing resin cement. Conclusions. Universal cleaning agents can be preferred as an efficient cleaning method with 10-MDP-containing cement after saliva contamination for better adhesive bond strength of 4 mm crown preparation height of monolithic zirconia ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RSDL® (Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion) Kit is approved for decontaminating chemical warfare agents and T-2 fungal toxins. This work aimed to investigate the efficacy of RSDL or water irrigation for sulfuric acid dermal decontamination against untreated control in rabbit models. Rabbits were randomly assigned to Groups 1 (no decontamination), 2 (water) or 3 (RSDL) and exposed to sulfuric acid (0.1 mL/3-4 cm²) for 30 seconds Decontaminants remained on-site for 2 minutes. Decontamination efficacy with RSDL and water were similar. Wound pH was higher and erythema persisted longer after decontamination versus control. Oedema developed by Day 3 and resolved by Day 15 in all groups. Necrosis started by Day 3, and all wounds had necrosis by Day 21. Wound areas following decontamination were significantly smaller than controls. Microscopically, all wounds in all groups had full-thickness epidermal and dermal necrosis. In summary, RSDL and water were similarly effective in reducing wound size and increasing wound pH by Day 3 compared to controls. Histopathology data demonstrated similar tissue injury across all groups and showed no signs of wound healing after exposure RSDL was a reliable decontamination method in the absence of immediate access to water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Removal of organic pollutants from wastewater remains a significant challenge. Hence, we report a series of novel MOFs based BixTiy‐BTC photocatalysts synthesized by hydrothermal method for decontamination of 1,1‐Dimethylhydrazine (UDMH). The preparation parameters of MOFs were optimized, the best catalytic performance was achieved by adjusting the Bi/Ti molar ratio to 1 : 3, with Bi1Ti3‐BTC a photocurrent density of 0.35 mA/cm2 was reached. The morphology and composition of the materials were analyzed, titanium doping increased the specific surface area. Bi1Ti3‐BTC was loaded with magnetic nano‐Fe3O4, which prevented agglomeration of Bi1Ti3‐BTC and increased the specific surface area, thus improving photocatalytic activity. The band gap structure of the semiconductor materials was estimated by UV‐Vis and XPS valence band spectra, while the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers was investigated by photocurrent density and PL (Photoluminescence) spectrum. The photocatalytic degradation rate of UDMH rapidly decreased after addition of EDTA, indicating that h+ was the main active species in the photocatalytic degradation process. The photocatalytic removal efficiency of UDMH with Bi1Ti3‐BTC/Fe3O4 at a concentration of 0.5 g/L reached 97.58 % after illumination for 180 min, and after 210 min near quantitative degradation was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 100,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions (ACLRs) occur annually in the United States, and postoperative surgical-site infection is a relatively rare but devastating complication, often leading to graft failure or septic arthritis of the knee, necessitating repeat surgery. Wrapping allografts in vancomycin-soaked gauze has been adopted as a common sterilization technique in the operating room to reduce surgical-site infection; however, identifying effective alternatives to vancomycin has not been extensively pursued. Hypothesis: Tobramycin would be as effective as vancomycin in reducing the concentrations of Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria on tendon allografts. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: S. epidermidis strain ATCC 12228 was inoculated onto the human cadaveric gracilis tendon. The tendons were wrapped in sterile gauze saturated with tobramycin or vancomycin at various experimental concentrations. Bacteria remaining on the tendon were dislodged, serially diluted, and plated for colony counting. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing 2-way analysis of variance testing. Results were considered statistically significant when P <.05. Results: Vancomycin (P =.0001) and tobramycin (P <.0001) reduced bacterial concentration. Tobramycin was found to produce a statistically significant reduction in bacterial concentration at concentrations as low as 0.1 mg/mL (P <.0001 and P =.01 at 10 and 20 minutes), while vancomycin produced a statistically significant reduction at a concentration as low as 2.5 mg/mL (P <.0001 at both 10 and 20 minutes). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that tobramycin is as effective as vancomycin in bacterial concentration reduction but can achieve this reduction level at lower doses. Further studies clarifying the biomechanical and cytotoxic effects of tobramycin on tendon tissue are indicated to solidify its use as a clinical alternative to vancomycin in ACLR. Clinical Relevance: These results will begin establishing tobramycin as an alternative to vancomycin in ACL graft decontamination. Because of relatively frequent shortages of vancomycin, establishing tobramycin as an alternative agent is a useful option for the orthopaedic surgeon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent progress in the development of MnO2-based micromotors has shown the immense potential of these motile devices to remediate environmental contamination. However, the production of such micromotors on an industrial scale through a facile, efficient and reproducible process remains challenging. The present work aimed to address this issue using naturally occurring and abundant pine pollen (PP) grains. The immersion of PP in potassium permanganate (KMnO4) solutions was found to generate MnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on the PP surfaces, the amount and distribution of which was readily adjusted by varying the coating time. Because of the asymmetrical shape of the PP grains, the MnO2/PP composites exhibited rapid self-propulsion at a maximum speed of 360.686 μm/s (approximately eight body lengths/s) in low-concentration hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) solutions. The ability of these materials to remediate heavy metal pollutants was also examined and was evidently increased by a factor of 1.5 compared with static counterparts. These composites could also be recovered and reused over three consecutive cycles. The competitive cost, continuous motion and superior decontamination capacity of these materials suggests potential applications in the rapid removal or degradation of heavy metal ions, toxic organic dyes, pathogenic bacteria and other pollutants in wastewater. These micromotors represent a new approach to the utilization of natural materials in environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water contamination by harmful organic and inorganic compounds seriously burdens human health and aquatic life. A series of conventional water purification methods can be employed, yet they come with certain disadvantages, including resulting sludge or solid waste, incomplete treatment process, and high costs. To overcome these limitations, attention has been drawn to nanotechnology for fabricating better-performing adsorbents for contaminant removal. In particular, magnetic nanostructures hold promise for water decontamination applications, benefiting from easy removal from aqueous solutions. In this respect, numerous researchers worldwide have reported incorporating magnetic particles into many composite materials. Therefore, this review aims to present the newest advancements in the field of magnetic composites for water decontamination, describing the appealing properties of a series of base materials and including the results of the most recent studies. In more detail, carbon-, polymer-, hydrogel-, aerogel-, silica-, clay-, biochar-, metal–organic framework-, and covalent organic framework-based magnetic composites are overviewed, which have displayed promising adsorption capacity for industrial pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To measure nurses' compliance with standard precautions during the COVID‐19 pandemic, compare findings with previous assessments and describe the barriers affecting nurses' compliance. Background: Healthcare providers' compliance with standard precautions is still limited worldwide. Implementation of infection control policies in hospitals is needed internationally, especially during a pandemic. Surprisingly, studies exploring nurses' compliance with standard precautions are lacking during COVID‐19. Methods: A multicenter cross‐sectional study was adopted in two Italian hospitals. Nurses' compliance with standard precautions was measured through The Compliance with Standard Precautions Scale (Italian version). An open‐ended question explored the barriers to nurses' compliance with standard precautions. Reporting, followed the STROBE guidelines. Results: A total of 201 nurses were enrolled in 2020. Nurses' compliance with standard precautions was suboptimal. A statistically significant improvement in the compliance rate with standard precautions was observed between pre‐ and during COVID‐19 assessments. High compliance was found in the appropriate use of surgical masks, gloves and sharps disposal. Nurses perceived personal, structural and organizational barriers to standard precautions adherence. Conclusion: Nurses' compliance with standard precautions was not 100%, and different factors impeded nurses to work safely. Our findings provide institutional leaders and educators with the basis for implementing policies to optimize nurse safety, well‐being and patient care. Implications for nursing and health policies: Nurses have the right to work safely, and when the shortage of personal protective equipment and nurses during an emergency threatens healthcare quality worldwide, policymakers are challenged to act by establishing an effective allocation of resources for consistent compliance with standard precautions. Moreover, nurses should actively engage in the implementation of infection control policies to improve safe behaviours among citizens and students accessing hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of ammonium (NH4+) in natural waters has increased in the last years due to the rising use of agricultural fertilizers, industrial activity and sewage discharges without any decontamination treatment. The great amounts of this inorganic cation in water bodies have been considered an environmental problem, due to its influence on the eutrophication process which leads to the deterioration of water quality. The application of ZnO nanoparticles to assess nutrient elimination, including ammonium, from water bodies has not been exhaustively studied. In this work, the capability of ZnO nanoparticles to remove ammonium cation from aqueous samples induced by adsorption is investigated. In this regards, experiments tending to determine the efficiency of nanomaterials have been performed employing two different NH4+ concentrations aiming to replicate two feasible real water-impacted environments. The interactions between adsorbent and adsorbate have been explored by employing experimental characterization techniques as well as theoretical DFT simulations. The achieved data demonstrated that the efficiency of ZnONPs shows a dependency on the ammonium concentration, ranging between 0.79 and 11.6 mg of ammonium adsorbed per gram of ZnONPs. According to the data on characterization prior and post adsorption of the ZnO nanomaterials the electrostatic interaction would not be favored, being the coordination ones the most feasible as suggested experimental and DFT results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portable X-ray fluorescence has successfully been used to effectively evaluate occupational exposure to airborne and surface metal contaminants nondestructively. Traditional methods of assessing metal surface contamination involve the costly, time-consuming collection and laboratory analysis of wipe samples, making portable X-ray fluorescence an attractive alternative method for screening worksites by reducing delays in risk assessment decision-making. Existing research into this use of portable X-ray fluorescence has primarily been centered on the analysis of airborne and surface lead contamination. The extant literature is sparse on the use of portable X-ray fluorescence with other metals for surface contamination with respect to occupational exposure. The present study evaluated the use of portable X-ray fluorescence in the screening of cadmium surface contamination to determine if the effectiveness of decontamination measures can be ascertained by this technique. Wipe samples were collected and screened with portable X-ray fluorescence before being sent to the laboratory for definitive analysis to assess the correlation between portable X-ray fluorescence readings in percent mass with laboratory results in μg/ft2. Portable X-ray fluorescence readings demonstrated a strong linear correlation with laboratory results, as indicated by the R2 value of 0.993. Therefore, this technique may be further developed and deployed as a screening tool for wipe samples used for evaluating contamination and decontamination of metal-contaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of their many advantages, such as simplicity of handling, affordability, and environmental friendliness, green magnetic nanoparticles (GMNPs) are currently receiving more attention than prevailing magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The synthesis and application of GMNPs inspired by biological systems are encouraged by rising ecological consciousness and stringent environmental restrictions and also deal with in detail in this manuscript. The current report presents the biological and environmental uses of GMNPs in-depth. Numerous biomedical applications, including imaging and diagnosis, cancer therapy, immunoassay, genetic engineering, and supported enzymes (proteins and peptides), among others, successfully use GMNPs. The GMNPs would be coupled with tiny sensors, microsystems, and microfluidics modules to boost the signal sensitivity for the identification of environmental contaminants, diseases, poisons, drugs, and trace biomarkers from clinical, environmental, and dietary examples. The GMNPs were essential elements in gene delivery and gene therapy initiatives, among other genetic engineering endeavors. They have also been extensively used for environmental applications such as wastewater treatment, organic pollutants decontamination, electrochemical sensing, industrial and radioactive wastes treatment, pollutant adsorption and removal etc. The use of GMNPs, particularly biosynthesized MNPs, is also believed to be more cost-effective than the majority of regularly used traditional MNPs. In addition, Green magnetic nanoparticles applied as supported enzymes, proteins and peptides catalyst, positron emission tomography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, theranostics, thermo-chemotherapy, electrochemical immunoassay and efficient detection of coronavirus is a significant issue in modern analytical chemistry and other fields. The opportunities of using GMNPs in the place of traditional MNPs have also been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although studies have shown high survival rates of dental implants, complications may occur mainly due to peri-implant infections. These highlight the importance of establishing protocols for implant decontamination using adjuvant therapies, such as ozone. This study aimed to evaluate the potential for in vitro decontamination of ozonated water on implants surface. Sixteen titanium implants were used, distributed into the groups (n = 4): group E – sterile implants; group C – contaminated implants; group O40 – contaminated implants treated with ozonated water 40 mg/L; and group O60 – contaminated implants treated with ozonated water 60 mg/L. The implants of groups C, O40, and O60 were contaminated in vitro with biofilm. Groups O40 and O60 were decontaminated with ozonated water for 1 minute. Microbiologic analysis was performed by counting colony-forming units (CFUs). Experimental group comparisons were done using a one-way ANOVA test with Tukey's posttest; a comparison between groups O40 and O60 was done using an independent t-test (p < 0.05). There was a difference among all experimental groups (p = 0.000), with a more significant reduction in CFUs in group O60 (0.83 × 107 ± 0.06) compared to group C (3.41 × 107 ± 0.41). It was concluded that ozonated water 60 mg/L has shown good potential for in vitro decontamination of implants surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present study, characteristics and structure-function relationship of an organophosphate-degrading enzyme from Bacillus sp. S3wahi were described. S3wahi metallohydrolase, designated as S3wahi-MH (probable metallohydrolase YqjP), featured the conserved αβ/βα metallo-β-lactamase-fold (MBL-fold) domain and a zinc bimetal at its catalytic site. The metal binding site of S3wahi-MH also preserves the H-X-H-X-D-H motif, consisting of specific amino acids at Zn1 (Asp69, His70, Asp182, and His230) and Zn2 (His65, His67, and His137). The multifunctionality of S3wahi-MH was demonstrated through a steady-state kinetic study, revealing its highest binding affinity (K M) and catalytic efficiency (k cat /K M) for OP compound, paraoxon, with values of 8.09 × 10−6 M and 4.94 × 105 M−1 s−1, respectively. Using OP compound, paraoxon, as S3wahi-MH native substrate, S3wahi-MH exhibited remarkable stability over a broad temperature range, 20 °C – 60 °C and a broad pH tolerance, pH 6–10. Corresponded to S3wahi-MH thermal stability characterization, the estimated melting temperature (T m) was found to be 72.12 °C. S3wahi-MH was also characterized with optimum catalytic activity at 30 °C and pH 8. Additionally, the activity of purified S3wahi-MH was greatly enhanced in the presence of 1 mM and 5 mM of manganese (Mn2+), showing relative activities of 1323.68 % and 2073.68 %, respectively. The activity of S3wahi-MH was also enhanced in the presence of DMSO and DMF, showing relative activities of 270.37 % and 307.41 %, respectively. The purified S3wahi-MH retained >60 % residual activity after exposure to non-ionic Tween series surfactants. Nevertheless, the catalytic activity of S3wahi-MH was severely impacted by the treatment of SDS, even at low concentrations. Considering its enzymatic properties and promiscuity, S3wahi-MH emerges as a promising candidate as a bioremediation tool in wide industrial applications, including agriculture industry. • S3wahi-MH is shown to be a broad-spectrum OPH as a potential efficient agent for the decontamination of OP compounds. • S3wahi-MH exhibited remarkable stability over a broad temperature range, (20 °C – 60 °C) and pH tolerance (pH 6 –10). • S3wahi-MH has a broad catalytic landscape, including its affinity towards organophosphate and β-lactam compounds. • S3wahi-MH is a prospect in simplifying pesticide management in agricultural settings and the wastewater industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Heterogenous ferrospinel nanoparticles were prepared towards PMS activation to degrade BTA. • Statistical-based RSM-CCD approach was used for optimization of BTA degradation process. • CoF showed a higher catalytic activity to decompose PMS compared to CuF. • An excellent reusability was observed for the both catalysts after eight consecutive reaction runs. • HO• and SO 4 •– species were responsible for the BTA degradation in both systems. The sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation process has been widely investigated via peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation in recent years, in which the development of catalysts with high efficiency and stability is crucial. The current work prepared a series of magnetic nanoparticles, including CuFe 2 O 4 (CuF) and CoFe 2 O 4 (CoF), for benzotriazole (BTA) degradation via PMS activation. Various techniques (XRD, VSM, BET, FESEM, and TEM) employed to examine the physicochemical, textural, magnetic, and structural characteristics of the as-prepared catalysts. Moreover, a response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) used to identify the optimum levels of operational variables and explore the interactions between them. The results showed that 99.7 and 100% of BTA can be removed under optimal conditions when CuF and CoF catalysts were applied in the system in the presence of PMS, respectively. Both catalysts exhibited high degradation efficiencies, even after eight consecutive cycles, highlighting their high stability and reusability in decontamination applications. According to the trapping tests, HO• and SO 4 •– species were responsible for the BTA degradation in both systems. These results suggested that CuF and CoF could be applied as effective recoverable catalysts for activating PMS and degrading persistent pollutants in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mhexaferrite (BaFe 12 O 19) is considered as a potential photocatalyst for PMS activation and water purification. However, as a first report, this study indeed provides a different preparation route in a diverse way to synthesize a novel Carbon@BaBiFe 12 O 19 nanoparticles photocatalyst, which so far has not been reported in literature yet as a main objective of our study. The as-prepared Carbon@BaBiFe 12 O 19 magnetic photocatalyst (NPs) was further used to explore the pollutants removal capacity by triggering peroxymonosulfate (PMS) under visible light irradiation. Methylene Orange (MO) removal capacity of the PMS/NPs/Light system reached 97.2% within 50 min. The enhanced efficacy of MO degradation can be ascribed to the effective generation of exceptionally reactive species, including O 2 •-, SO 4 •-, h+ and •OH. The study investigated various experimental parameters, such as the development of novel photocatalysts, PMS, light, pH level of the solution, type of pollutants, generation of active species, presence of inorganic anions, dosage of pollutants, water matrices, stability/recyclability, as well as the reaction mechanism for the NPs/PMS/Light system. Therefore, these findings explain how dopants (Bi-carbon) and faults affect the PMS-based photocatalytic water treatment performance. These intriguing discoveries indeed provide novel insights into the development and application of NPs that exhibit exceptional photocatalytic and chemical stability towards oxidative decontamination process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic ecosystems and potable water are being exploited and depleted due to urbanization and the encouragement of extensive industrialization, which induces the scarcity of pure water. However, current decontamination methods are limited and inefficient. Various innovative remediation strategies with novel nanomaterials have recently been demonstrated for wastewater treatment. Carbon dots (C-dots) and graphene quantum dots (GQ-dots) are the most recent frontiers in carbon nanomaterial-based adsorption studies. C-dots are extremely small (1–10 nm) quasi-spherical carbon nanoparticles (mostly sp3 hybridized carbon), whereas GQ-dots are fragments of graphene (1–20 nm) composed of primarily sp2 hybridized carbon. This article highlights the function of C-dots and GQ-dots with their specifications and characteristics for the efficient removal of organic and inorganic contaminants in water via adsorption chromatography. The alteration of adsorption attributes with the hybrid blending of these dots has been critically analyzed. Moreover, various top-down and bottom-up approaches for synthesizing C-dots and GQ-dots, which ultimately affect their morphology and structure, are described in detail. Finally, we review the research deficit in the adsorption of diverse pollutants, fabrication challenges, low molecular weight, self-agglomeration, and the future of the dots by providing research prospects and selectivity and sensitivity perspectives, the importance of post-adsorption optimization strategies and the path toward scalability at the tail of the article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solution pH is one of the primary factors affecting the efficiency of water decontamination. Although the influence of pH on oxidants activation, catalyst activity, and reactive oxygen species have been widely explored, there is still a scarcity of systemic studies on the changes in the oxidation behavior of organic pollutants at different pH levels. Herein, we report the influence laws of pH on the forms, reactivities, active sites, degradation pathways, and products toxicities of organic pollutants. Changes in pH cause the protonation or deprotonation of organic pollutants and further affect their forms and chemistry (e.g., electrostatic force, hydrophobicity, and oxidation potential). The oxidation potential of organic pollutants follows the order: protonated form > pristine form > deprotonated form. Moreover, protonation or deprotonation can modify the active sites and degradation pathways of organic pollutants, wherein deprotonation renders them more susceptible to electrophilic attack, while protonation reduces their activity against electrophilic and nucleophilic attacks. Additionally, pH adjustments can modify the degradation pathway and the toxicity of transformation products. Overall, pH changes can affect the oxidation fate of organic pollutants by altering their structure, which distinguishes it from the effect of pH on oxidants or oxidant activation processes. [Display omitted] • Solution pH alters the oxidation behavior of organic pollutants. • Deprotonation augments the reactivity of organic pollutants while protonation diminishes it. • Protonation and deprotonation modify the active sites and degradation pathways. • The toxicity of the transformation products can be controlled by adjusting the solution pH [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium is widely distributed in the environment and is basically a non-essential element in cellular metabolism for most life forms. Both geogenic and anthropological sources contribute to cadmium emission and eventual contamination of soil and water. The elevated amounts of cadmium in various environmental resources such as drinking water pose a toxic threat to all the life forms that depend on these resources to sustain life. Cadmium contamination in groundwater is increasing at an alarming rate along with other more prevalent toxicants especially in underdeveloped countries. It is gradually entering our system by consuming contaminated food and water and is spreading in food chain. Along with various health hazards cadmium is basically a potent carcinogen. According to the guideline value recommended by the World Health Organization (2017) (WHO) the presence of 0.003 mg/l (ppm) of cadmium in drinking water is acceptable. Adsorptive removal of cadmium has much been overshadowed by the conventional removal technique (precipitation/coagulation/floatation/membrane separation). Previous reviews have seldom focused on both available and developed sorption techniques for cadmium removal. A vast tabular representation has been representing the sorption capacities of various adsorbents. Cadmium remediation by both activated carbon and other low cost adsorbents has critically been surveyed. Various low cost adsorbents such as biosorbents along with modified activated carbon have shown sufficient high sorption capacity. Desorption techniques for sorbent regeneration after cadmium removal have also been discussed. Treatment of cadmium concentrate and disposal has also been addressed which is much less focused till date. • Cadmium is a non-essential, toxic heavy metal. • Geogenic and anthropological sources contribute to cadmium emission and contamination of aqueous medium. • As per WHO, recommended permissible limit for cadmium is 0.003 ppm. • Several biosorbants appeared as low cost effective means for Cd-decontamination of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among biopolymer-based adsorbents, composites in the form of beads have shown promising results in terms of high adsorption capacity and ease of separation from the effluents. This review addresses the potential of biopolymer-based beads to remediate wastewaters polluted with emerging organic contaminants, for instance dyes, active pharmaceutical ingredients, pesticides, phenols, oils, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and polychlorinated biphenyls. High adsorption capacities up to 2541.76 mg g−1 for dyes, 392 mg g−1 for pesticides and phenols, 1890.3 mg g−1 for pharmaceuticals, and 537 g g−1 for oils and organic solvents have been reported. The review also attempted to convey to its readers the significance of wastewater treatment through adsorption by providing an overview on decontamination technologies of organic water contaminants. Various preparation methods of biopolymer-based gel beads and adsorption mechanisms involved in the process of decontamination have been summarized and analyzed. Therefore, we believe there is an urge to discuss the current state of the application of biopolymer-based gel beads for the adsorption of organic pollutants from wastewater and future perspectives in this regard since it is imperative to treat wastewater before releasing into freshwater bodies. • Prominent sources by which organic contaminants enter aquatic ecosystems are described. • Various preparation methods and the current state of biopolymer-based gel beads are discussed. • Plausible mechanisms involved in the adsorption of organic contaminants are summarized. • Challenges, limitations and future directions regarding organic contaminants removal by biopolymer-based gel beads are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hen eggs play a vital role in the human diet and their safety is critical to avoid the risk of foodborne illness for consumers. Engineered Water Nanostructures (EWNS) generated via an electrospray system is a novel and nanotechnology-based technique, which can be utilized for inactivating bacteria. The primary objective of this work was to assess this technique's effectiveness as a chemical-free and non-thermal approach for decontaminating egg surfaces and investigate its potential as an alternative to the conventional method of washing eggs. The results showed that under EWNS operating conditions of 5 min of exposure time, 1 μL/min/needle of water flow rate, and 9.0 kV/cm of electric field strength, the highest inactivation efficiency of 97.6 and 80.4% were obtained for decontaminating egg surfaces contaminated by E. coli and Salmonella spp., respectively. Results also proved no significant difference in physical properties, chemical components, and eggshell cuticle coverage of EWNS-treated eggs compared to unwashed eggs. • Engineered water nanostructures (EWNS) produced from electro spray were used to decontaminate eggshell. • Representative pathogens on eggshell were decontaminated. • EWNS do not show any impact on physical and chemical properties of treated eggs. • A chemical-free surface decontamination method was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we demonstrate an integrated fluidic sequential electrochemical system for effective water decontamination. The system consists of a Ti mesh anode deposited with nanoscale IrO 2 and a CNT filter functionalized with nanoconfined Fe 2 O 3. By conducting anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and 2e– oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) sequential electrolysis, our system enables sustainable O 2 generation at the anode, followed by transformation of O 2 into H 2 O 2 at the cathode, which then led to the production of 1O 2 in the presence of nanoconfined Fe 2 O 3. No chemical inputs were needed nor side products occurred during the whole sequential electrochemical processes. The effectiveness of the system was evaluated using tetracycline as a model emerging contaminant. Recirculating at 3 mL min–1, the system exhibited negligible iron and iridium leaching (≤0.01 mg L–1) and high tetracycline degradation efficiency (≥95%). Such excellent efficacy can be maintained across a wide pH range and in complicated water matrices. [Display omitted] • An "O 2 self-feeding" fluidic bipolar electrochemical system was designed. • The system combines oxygen/water (O 2 /H 2 O) redox couple. • The system shows negligible Fe and Ir loss and high organic degradation efficiency. • The essential role of 1O 2 was identified toward selective organic degradation. • No chemical inputs were needed nor side products occurred during the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium alginate (SA) biopolymer has been recognized as an efficient adsorbent material owing to their unique characteristics, including biodegradability, non-toxic nature, and presence of abundant hydrophilic functional groups. Accordingly, in the current research work, UiO-66-OH and UiO-66-(OH) 2 metal organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles (NPs) have been integrated into SA biopolymer-based three-dimensional (3-D) membrane capsules (MCs) via a simple and facile approach to remove toxic metal cations (Cu2+ and Cd2+) from water and real sewage. The newly configured capsules were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD, EDX and XPS analyses techniques. Exceptional sorption properties of the as-developed capsules were ensured by evaluation of the pertinent operational parameters, i.e., contents of MOF-NPs (1–100 wt%), adsorbent dosage (0.001–0.05 g), content time (0–360 h), pH (1–8), initial concentration of metal cations (5–1000 mg/L) and reaction temperature (298.15–333.15 K) on the eradication of Cu2+ and Cd2+ metal cations. It was found that hydrophilic functional groups (-OH and -COOH) have performed an imperative role in the smooth loading of MOF-NPs into 3-D membrane capsules via intra/inter-molecular hydrogen bonding and van der waals potencies. The maximum monolayer uptake capacities (as calculated by the Langmuir isotherm model) of Cd2+ and Cu2+ by 3-D SGMMCs-OH were 940 and 1150 mg/g, respectively, and by 3-D SGMMCs-(OH) 2 were 1375 and 1575 mg/g, respectively, under optimum conditions. The as-developed capsules have demonstrated superior selectivity against targeted metal cations under designated pH and maintained >80 % removal efficiency up to six consecutive treatment cycles. Removal mechanisms of metal cations by the 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH) 2 was proposed, and electrostatic interaction, ion-exchange, inner-sphere coordination bonds/interactions, and aromatic ligands exchange were observed to be the key removal mechanisms. Notably, FTIR and XPS analysis indicated that hydroxyl groups of Zr-OH and BDC-OH/(OH) 2 aromatic linkers played vital roles in Cu2+ and Cd2+ adsorption by participating in inner-sphere coordination interactions and aromatic ligands exchange mechanisms. The as-prepared capsules indicated >70 % removal efficiency of Cu2+ from real electroplating wastewater in the manifestation of other competitive metal ions and pollutants under selected experimental conditions. Thus, it was observed that newly configured 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH) 2 have offered a valuable discernment into the development of MOFs-based water decontamination 3-D capsules for industrial applications. [Display omitted] • Metal organic framework nanoparticles were integrated into sodium alginate biopolymer-based membrane capsules. • The as-developed capsules depicted superior selectivity against targeted metal cations under designed conditions. • Removal mechanism of Cd2+ and Cu2+ by as-developed capsules was proposed. • Good removal efficiency (>70 %) of Cu2+ was obtained by the as-developed capsules in real sewage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NH 3 ·H 2 O can result in severe accidents when leaking in a confined space. In this work, a novel powder-water mist synergistic strategy for decontaminating NH 3 ·H 2 O in a confined space is proposed. Initially, FeCl 3 /AlCl 3 was employed to modify diatomite, decorating its pore structure and augmenting the number of acidic adsorption sites. The modified diatomite achieves a notable efficiency of 74.6%, surpassing that of the raw diatomite (43.8%). Subsequently, surfactants were introduced to increase the contact area between the water mist and NH 3 , while a thickening agent was employed to suppress the fluidity of NH 3 ·H 2 O. Ultimately, the powder-water mist synergistic decontamination system was constructed by integrating the diatomite with a thickening agent and water mist containing surfactants. The synergistic system exhibits a superior decontamination efficiency of approximately 80%. This work generates fresh insight into decontaminating NH 3 ·H 2 O in a confined space and offers a crucial avenue for future advancements in decontamination technology. [Display omitted] • A novel powder-water mist synergistic decontamination method is presented. • Modified treatments enhance the decontamination efficiency of diatomite on NH 3 ·H 2 O. • This synergistic method exhibits satisfactory decontamination effects on NH 3 ·H 2 O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium alginate (SA) biopolymer has been recognized as an efficient adsorbent material owing to their unique characteristics, including biodegradability, non-toxic nature, and presence of abundant hydrophilic functional groups. Accordingly, in the current research work, UiO-66-OH and UiO-66-(OH) 2 metal organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles (NPs) have been integrated into SA biopolymer-based three-dimensional (3-D) membrane capsules (MCs) via a simple and facile approach to remove toxic metal cations (Cu2+ and Cd2+) from water and real sewage. The newly configured capsules were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD, EDX and XPS analyses techniques. Exceptional sorption properties of the as-developed capsules were ensured by evaluation of the pertinent operational parameters, i.e., contents of MOF-NPs (1–100 wt%), adsorbent dosage (0.001–0.05 g), content time (0–360 h), pH (1–8), initial concentration of metal cations (5–1000 mg/L) and reaction temperature (298.15–333.15 K) on the eradication of Cu2+ and Cd2+ metal cations. It was found that hydrophilic functional groups (-OH and -COOH) have performed an imperative role in the smooth loading of MOF-NPs into 3-D membrane capsules via intra/inter-molecular hydrogen bonding and van der waals potencies. The maximum monolayer uptake capacities (as calculated by the Langmuir isotherm model) of Cd2+ and Cu2+ by 3-D SGMMCs-OH were 940 and 1150 mg/g, respectively, and by 3-D SGMMCs-(OH) 2 were 1375 and 1575 mg/g, respectively, under optimum conditions. The as-developed capsules have demonstrated superior selectivity against targeted metal cations under designated pH and maintained >80 % removal efficiency up to six consecutive treatment cycles. Removal mechanisms of metal cations by the 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH) 2 was proposed, and electrostatic interaction, ion-exchange, inner-sphere coordination bonds/interactions, and aromatic ligands exchange were observed to be the key removal mechanisms. Notably, FTIR and XPS analysis indicated that hydroxyl groups of Zr-OH and BDC-OH/(OH) 2 aromatic linkers played vital roles in Cu2+ and Cd2+ adsorption by participating in inner-sphere coordination interactions and aromatic ligands exchange mechanisms. The as-prepared capsules indicated >70 % removal efficiency of Cu2+ from real electroplating wastewater in the manifestation of other competitive metal ions and pollutants under selected experimental conditions. Thus, it was observed that newly configured 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH) 2 have offered a valuable discernment into the development of MOFs-based water decontamination 3-D capsules for industrial applications. [Display omitted] • Metal organic framework nanoparticles were integrated into sodium alginate biopolymer-based membrane capsules. • The as-developed capsules depicted superior selectivity against targeted metal cations under designed conditions. • Removal mechanism of Cd2+ and Cu2+ by as-developed capsules was proposed. • Good removal efficiency (>70 %) of Cu2+ was obtained by the as-developed capsules in real sewage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination of water with organic pollutants such as dyes and phenols is a serious environmental problem, requiring effective treatment methods. In the present study, a novel nanocomposite was synthesized by intercalating graphene oxide and bentonite clay into MgFeAl-layered triple hydroxide (GO/BENT/LTH), which was characterized using different techniques. The adsorption efficacy of the GO/BENT/LTH nanocomposite was assessed via the removal of two harmful organic water pollutants, namely methyl orange (MO) and 2-nitrophenol (2NP). The obtained results revealed that the maximum adsorption capacities (q max) of MO and 2NP reached 3106.3 and 2063.5 mg/g, respectively, demonstrating the excellent adsorption performance of the nanocomposite. Furthermore, this study examined the effects of contact time, initial MO and 2NP concentrations, pH, and temperature of the wastewater samples on the adsorptive removal of MO and 2NP by the GO/BENT/LTH nanocomposite. The pH, zeta potential, and FTIR investigations suggested the presence of more than one adsorption mechanism. Thermodynamic investigations elucidated the exothermic nature of the adsorption of MO and 2NP onto the GO/BENT/LTH nanocomposite, with MO adsorption being more sensitive to temperature change. Additionally, regeneration studies revealed a marginal loss in the MO and 2NP removal with the repetitive use of the GO/BENT/LTH nanocomposite, demonstrating its reusability. Overall, the findings of this study reveal the promise of the GO/BENT/LTH nanocomposite for effective water decontamination. • Novel GO/clay/MgFeAl-LTH nanocomposites is synthesized and characterized herein. • The nanocomposite outperformed its parental materials and their binary combinations. • The q max of MO and 2NP using this nanocomposite are >3000 and > 2000 mg/g, respectively. • Both pollutants adsorb spontaneously and exothermically on the nanocomposite. • The nanocomposite can be used multiple times with insignificant performance loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) has attracted much attention to selective separation and recovery of various ionic species due to its simplicity, environmental friendliness, excellent removal efficiency, and low energy consumption. However, there have been very few review papers focusing on the challenges and opportunities in this field. Therefore, this review comprehensively summarizes the basic principles and significant development of MCDI processes. The potential applications of MCDI processes in selective separation and recovery of ionic species, e.g. , heavy metal removal, water softening, desalination, selective anion decontamination, and resource recovery, are highlighted and benchmarked using various performance indicators. In addition, challenges and novel countermeasures of MCDI processes are further summarized. Future research needs for MCDI processes to reach full-scale potential in practical water treatment are suggested accordingly. This review will provide a solid basis to guide the future development of MCDI-based water treatment technology. [Display omitted] • The MCDI is very robust on selective separation and recovery of various ionic species. • Basic principles and significant development of MCDI processes are summarized. • The potential applications of an MCDI in selective ion separation and recovery are highlighted. • Challenges and novel countermeasures of MCDI processes are further presented. • Future research needs for an MCDI to reach full-scale potential in water treatment are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for sustainable and reliable decontamination methods is driven by concerns regarding antibiotic resistance, as well as environmental and cost-efficiency challenges associated with traditional methods. Plasma-activated water (PAW) holds significant promise as an innovative and eco-friendly decontamination method. Nevertheless, prior to industrial implementation of PAW-based decontamination devices, a deep understanding of the bacterial inactivation mechanisms and its interplay with PAW chemical composition is required. Advancing in this field requires interdisciplinary and collaborative research using standardized practices with cost-effective and shareable PAW reactors that are still missing today. Here, to this end, a portable PAW reactor, featuring a surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) that operates in air, is presented. The gaseous and aqueous phases were chemically characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) absorption spectroscopy and vis-spectrophotometry, respectively. To assess PAW antimicrobial efficacy Escherichia coli was employed as a model organism on six different PAW samples for three different treatment times. The significance of water recirculation in controlling the chemical composition of PAW, altering the nitrogen species balance in favor of NO 2 − , is demonstrated. This chemical modification consequently enhanced the antimicrobial effectiveness of PAW, reaching a log reduction of ∼ 6. Exposing E. coli to equivalent concentrations of RONS to those found in PAW attained similar log-reductions, indicating that acidified nitrites are key to PAW antimicrobial activity. Through an innovative and portable design, this study illustrates the crucial role of water recirculation in tailoring PAW composition, leading to improved decontamination capabilities and establishing a key parameter for further optimization of PAW production. • Plasma-Activated Water (PAW): a sustainable and innovative decontamination method. • PAW portable reactor design for in situ applications and collaborative scientific research. • Water recirculation significantly impacts PAW composition for improved decontamination. • Acidic conditions are essential for the antimicrobial activity of reactive nitrogen species in PAW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • UV–visible irradiation is an effective mean of PCB remediation in transformer oils. • Adsorption on activated bauxite Fuller's earth (BFE) allows to purify the decontaminated oil by removing the by-products. • Physical properties of transformer oils are preserved allowing their reuse. • A novel method based on liquid 1H NMR shows great potential as a method for qualitatively tracking the degradation of PCBs. Addressing the challenge of removing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from transformer fluids is crucial for environmental protection in the energy sector due to the widespread use of transformers in various industries. However, current methods lack efficiency in enabling fluid reuse, creating a significant research gap. In this study, we focus on the recycling of oils from power transformers contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls while preserving the chemical and physical attributes of the original transformer oil. To this end, we employ a combination of UV–visible radiation exposure and an adsorption treatment using activated bauxite Fuller's earth (BFE) (containing 92% Al 2 O 3). The effects on fluid remediation are systematically assessed using various analytical methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), breakdown voltage testing, acidity titration, and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). The experiments in static mode showed that the concentration of PCBs was reduced to a value lower than 50 ppm after 8 h of irradiation while the formed chlorinated acid compounds can be removed using BFE sorbent. The results of our treatment demonstrated the performance of the combination of UV–visible radiation and the adsorptive treatment of transformer oils while improving their physicochemical characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive and uncontrollable discharge of diverse organic pollutants into the environment has emerged as a significant concern, presenting a substantial risk to human health. Among the advanced oxidation processes used for the purification of wastewater, cold plasma technology is superior in fast and effective decontamination but often fails facing mixed pollutants. To address these issues, here we develop the new conceptual approach, plasma process, and proprietary reactor that ensure, for the first time, that the efficiency of treatment (114.7%) of two mixed organic dyes, methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO), is higher than when the two dyes are treated separately. We further reveal the underlying mechanisms for the energy-efficient complete degradation of the mixed dyes. The contribution of plasma-induced ROS and the distinct degradation characteristics and mechanism of pollutants in mixed treatment are discussed. The electron transfer pathway revealed for the first time suggest that the mixed pollutants reduce the overall redox potentials and facilitate electron transfer during the plasma treatment, promoting synergistic degradation effects. The integrated frameworks including both direct and indirect mechanisms provide new insights into the high-efficiency mixed-contaminant treatment. The degradation products for mixed degradation are revealed based on the identification of intermediate species. The plasma-treated water is proven safe for living creatures in waterways and sustainable fishery applications, using in vivo zebrafish model bio-toxicity assay. Overall, these findings offer a feasible approach and new insights into the mechanisms for the development of highly-effective, energy-efficient technologies for wastewater treatment and reuse in agriculture, industry, and potentially in urban water networks. [Display omitted] • The mixed treatment exhibited significant efficiency improvements (114.7%) than the separate treatment. • Unveiled synergistic ROS and electron transfer mechanism during plasma treatment. • Confirmed treated solution's biosafety via in vivo zebrafish tests and ECOSAR model. • Results offer data and theory for feasible engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen vacancies (OVs)-rich α-Ni 0.2 Fe 1.8 O 3 with dual metal sites was synthesized by Ni2+ isomorphously substituted α-Fe 2 O 3 to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for aceclofenac (ACF) degradation. A novel insight was proposed for the overlooked role of H 2 O in the surface-complexed process between PMS and unsaturated metal sites induced by OVs. The surface-bond SO 4 ∙- and ∙OH were demonstrated as the dominant reactive oxygen species (ROS). In situ ATR and Raman spectra revealed the reaction of HSO 5 - with the surface metal sites by replacing the surface-bonded -OH. The DFT study revealed the spontaneous formation of hydrolyzed -OH on OVs (∆G=−1.45 eV), which was further replaced by HSO 5 - to complex with metal sites (∆G=−3.58 eV). The O Ⅰ of the H-O Ⅰ -O Ⅱ -SO 3 - was more readily bonded with the Ni or Fe sites around OVs, causing the O-O cleavage for SO 4 ∙- generation. This study proposed a brand-new perspective for the interfacial behavior of PMS activation. [Display omitted] • The α-Ni 0.2 Fe 1.8 O 3 with rich oxygen vacancies can excellently activate PMS. • The surface-bond SO 4 ∙- and ∙OH played a major role in the degradation of ACF. • HSO 5 - was mainly bonded to metal sites by replacing surface -OH groups. • The interfacial mechanism for PMS activation by α-Ni 0.2 Fe 1.8 O 3 was proposed. • The degradation pathway of ACF by α-Ni 0.2 Fe 1.8 O 3 /PMS system was deduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis enhance CBZ degradation rate by 3.6-fold. • 87.15 % mineralization of CBZ was achieved in 30 min via mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis. • 1O 2 -dominated ring-opening is identified to be key for improved mineralization. • Multiple PhACs in the effluent are simultaneously degraded with high mineralization. The wide occurrence of pharmaceutically active contaminants (PhACs) in aquatic environments has received more and more concern owing to the associated high risks to ecosystems. Even worse, conventional wastewater treatment techniques fail to provide effective decontamination for these emerging contaminants. Herein, we designed and constructed mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 heterojunction for a persulfate-assisted photocatalytic system (mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis) for the rapid and effective degradation of PhACs. Superior mineralization of CBZ (87.15 %) was achieved within 30-minute treatment with mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis, exhibiting 11-fold enhancement compared to mAg 3 PO 4 /Vis system. Integrating experimental investigations with theoretical calculations, singlet oxygen (1O 2) was identified as the key reactive species, while the 1O 2 -dominated ring-opening pathway contributed significantly to the high mineralization of CBZ. Moreover, mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis showed robust degradation performance of multiple PhACs across various water matrices. Multiple PhACs could be simultaneously degraded with high mineralization efficiency in the wastewater effluent, demonstrating the promising application of mAg 3 PO 4 @g-C 3 N 4 /PDS/Vis for decontaminating emerging contaminants in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Coagulation/co-catalytic membrane system integrated coagulation, filtration and AOP. • Fe3+ served as both the coagulant for DOM removal and PMS activator. • MoS 2 in catalytic membrane accelerate the redox cycling of Fe species. • Surface-bound radicals enable efficient BPA removal and in-situ membrane cleaning. • The system showed stable performance during 53 h treatment of WWTP effluent. Low-pressure catalytic membranes allow efficient rejection of particulates and simultaneously removing organics pollutant in water, but the accumulation of dissolved organic matters (DOM) on membrane surface, which cover the catalytic sites and cause membrane fouling, challenges their stable operation in practical wastewater treatment. Here we propose a ferric salt-based coagulation/co-catalytic membrane integrated system that can effectively mitigate the detrimental effects of DOM. Ferric salt (Fe3+) serving both as a DOM coagulant to lower the membrane fouling and as a co-catalyst with the membrane-embedded MoS 2 nanosheets to drive perxymonosulfate (PMS) activation and pollutant degradation. The membrane functionalized with 2H-phased MoS 2 nanosheets showed improved hydrophilicity and fouling resistance relative to the blank polysulfone membrane. Attributed to the DOM coagulation and co-catalytic generation of surface-bound radicals for decontamination at membrane surface, the catalytic membrane/PMS/ Fe3+ system showed much less membrane fouling and 2.6 times higher pollutant degradation rate in wastewater treatment than the catalytic membrane alone. Our work imply a great potential of coagulation/co-catalytic membrane integrated system for water purification application. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fabricated a Janus lamellar membrane (JLM) with asymmetric bi-layered structure. • A vital advantage of JLM based on BiOCl is its ease of mass transfer and flotation. • Optimize the weight ratio of BiOCl/CNFs and BiOCl/CNFs@CNTs in JLM to 1:1. • JLM integrates photocatalytic H 2 evolution, decontamination and water evaporation. • The photothermal water evaporation rate of JLM attains a level of 1.92 kg·m−2·h−1. Photocatalysis and photothermal water evaporation (PWE), as two technologies that utilize solar energy, have received special attention in the context of carbon neutrality. It is undoubtedly attractive if a structure can effectively combine the two technologies. However, it remains a huge challenge to simplify structural design while improving energy efficiency and mass transfer. Herein, a Janus lamellar membrane (JLM) with an asymmetric bi-layered structure was constructed using facile vacuum filtration. Specifically, the top layer consists of BiOCl nanosheets (BNs) and cellulose nanofibers@carbon nanotubes (CNF@CNT), forming a functional layer that facilitates solar energy utilization. Within the top and bottom layers, CNF@CNT and CNFs are respectively embedded into the interlayer space formed by stacked BNs, offering abundant nanochannels for continuous and rapid water supply. Moreover, as the weight ratio of the BN-CNF@CNT and BN-CNF precursors is optimized to 1:1 with the BN-CNF@CNT layer facing light source, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) rate of JLM reaches up to 39.81 μmol·g−1·h−1, corresponding to approximately 3.12 and 1.57 times that of the BN-CNF and BN-CNF@CNT lamellar membranes, respectively. Importantly, the PHE rate remains consistent within ten cyclic stability experiments. Furthermore, the PWE rate of JLM achieves 1.98 kg·m−2·h−1 under 1.0 solar irradiation (100 mW·cm−2). A vital advantage of the JLM is its ability to float on the liquid surface, enabling concurrent photocatalytic decontamination and PWE processes. The research on designing JLM with an asymmetric structure for both photocatalysis and PWE provides a practical approach to the comprehensive utilization of solar energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The enol-bound ZnAl-LDH effectively tunes the electronic structure. • The ACLDH/PMS/Vis system enables efficient treatment of tetracycline hydrochloride, leachate and E. coli. • A direct oxidative degradation mechanism is proposed for the ACLDH/PMS/Vis system. • ACLDH material is an environmentally friendly and highly efficient photocatalyst. The direct oxidative transfer process (DOTP) is a novel degradation-mineralisation system for the treatment of organic trace contaminants in water pollution, which are present with extremely high energy and/or chemical additions as well as large residues due to partial mineralisation. In this study, an enol-conjugated LDH (ACLDH) catalyst capable of interacting with persulfate was used, and tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) was degraded under visible light irradiation, and experimental and theoretical results showed that the ACLDH catalyst efficiently regulated its electrons. Under optimal experimental conditions, the ACLDH material acted as a catalyst to activate and stabilise the DOTP process on the surface of the nanocatalyst, resulting in the complete removal of TC within 35 min with up to 25 % mineralisation. In addition, the study investigated the effects of starting pH, catalyst dosage, several common inorganic anions and humic acid on TC removal. DOTP based on the ACLDH/PMS/Vis system is a very promising nanotechnology for water purification with strong performance in real waste leachate (up to 12 % TOC mineralisation) and disinfection applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Efficient molecule enrichment across a dynamic water-water interface. • Robust hydrogel polymeric backbone allows for efficient pollutant arrestment. • Magnetically actuated spinning concentrates pollutants rapidly by ≥300-fold. • Ultrasensitive colorimetric monitoring for reliable water chemistry analysis. • Energy and time-efficient while preserving innate chemical properties of pollutants. The efficient accumulation of molecules from dilute solutions is crucial for facilitating pollutant decontamination, trace analyte detection, and chemical reactions. However, current methods to concentrate molecules are limited by prolonged processing times, high energy consumption, and a narrow range of applicable molecules. Herein, we introduce a magnetic-responsive spinnable hydrogel marble (SHM) as a miniature molecule concentrator for efficient water decontamination and sensing applications. The spinning motion of SHM creates a dynamic water-water interface within an aqueous environment, generating a vortex-like hydrodynamic flow that actively delivers molecules into the embedded hydrogel microdroplet. Notably, the SHM achieves a remarkable ∼95 % decontamination efficiency for cationic organic water pollutants in just 15 min while simultaneously concentrating molecules within SHM by ≥300-fold, a feat that remains challenging with conventional non-dynamic liquid interface. Moreover, the SHM also doubles as a versatile concentrator-cum-detection platform for ultrasensitive colorimetric sensing of organic pollutants in real wastewater at >99 % accuracy, thereby allowing the on-site readout of water chemistry using naked eyes or smartphone for prompt intervention. By enabling the efficient and swift concentration of molecules in an energy-efficient manner, our unique design effectively addresses the drawbacks of traditional approaches and creates enormous opportunities for diverse analytical, environmental, and chemical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The introduced PAC optimizes the assembly of heterogeneous FeS x on S-ZVI/PAC. • PAC physically adsorbs isolated FeS x allowed chemically assembled FeS x on S-ZVI. • The chemical assembly of FeS x is superior to physical adsorption on S-ZVI. • PAC adsorbs FeS x to obtain electron properties matching its adsorption threshold. Specifically designing the heterogeneous interface in sulfidated zero-valent iron (S-ZVI) has been an effective, yet usually overlooked method to improve the decontamination ability. However, the mechanism behind FeS x assembly remains elusive and the lack of modulating strategies that can essentially tune the applicability of S-ZVI further imposes difficulties in creating better-performing S-ZVI with heterogeneous interface. In this study, by introducing powdered activated carbon (PAC) during S-ZVI preparation, S-ZVI/PAC microparticles were prepared to modulate the assembly pattern of FeS x for the applicability and reactivity of the material. S-ZVI/PAC showed robust performance in Cr(VI) sequestration, with 11.16 and 1.78 fold increase in Cr(VI) reactivity compared to ZVI and S-ZVI, respectively. This was attributed to the fact that the introduced PAC could acquire FeS x to enhance the electron transfer capacity matching its adsorption threshold, thus helping to accommodate the transfer of the reduction center to PAC in S-ZVI/PAC. In optimizing the FeS x allocation between ZVI and PAC, the chemical assembly of FeS x on S-ZVI was superior to physical adsorption. Critically, we found that isolated FeS x in the prepared solution was physically adsorbed by the PAC, allowing chemically assembled FeS x on the S-ZVI. This was achieved by controlling the addition sequence of Na 2 S and PAC, as it effectively controlled the release rate and content of Fe(II) in the preparation solution. S-ZVI/PAC was demonstrated to be extremely effective in simulated wastewater and electrokinetics-permeable reactive barrier (EK-PRB) treatments. Introducing PAC enriches the diversity of sulfidation mechanisms and may realize the universality of the S-ZVI/PAC application scenarios. This study provides a new interface optimization strategy for S-ZVI targeted design towards environmental applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firefighters are frequently exposed to products of combustion and pyrolysis. Exposure to these substances occurs not only during fires but also at fire stations, particularly where fire equipment and fire uniforms are stored after firefighting operations. The aims of this study were to review the research on the concentrations of various air pollutants in fire stations, identify the limitations and strengths of such research, identify research gaps and related future challenges, and highlight potential solutions for reducing firefighter exposure to air pollution at fire stations. A total of 32 articles published in international journals during 1987–2023 were selected for analysis. The most frequently studied pollutants in fire stations were polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and diesel particulate matter. Research was most often conducted on changing rooms and garages. Firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, fire trucks, and combustion tools were identified as the main sources of pollution at fire stations. Recommendations aimed at reducing the concentration of pollutants in fire stations were mainly concerned with the systematic decontamination of equipment and the introduction of ventilation solutions that would remove exhaust fumes from garages. This in-depth literature review indicates a lack of comprehensive research on the state and quality of air at fire stations. It also highlights the emerging need for more knowledge on the concentrations of air pollutants in fire stations, health exposure related to these substances, and an analysis of the effectiveness of the proposed solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]