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The urgent need to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly in relation to climate change, is driving the demand for new sustainable renewable fuels. This demand is promoting the expansion of de-carbonization efforts, which hold tremendous potential as a renewable energy source. One area of focus is the production of hydrogen (H 2), which has long been a popular subject of discussion. Currently, large quantities of H 2 are generated using conventional fossil fuels. However, the finite nature of these resources has compelled the global community to explore alternative, more environmentally friendly options like biomass. Generating H 2 on a large scale from various biomasses presents a complex challenge. Researchers have identified thermochemical (TC) and biological (BL) processes as the primary methods for converting biomass into H 2 , although other techniques exist as well. Commercializing H 2 as a fuel presents significant technological, financial, and environmental hurdles. Nevertheless, nanomaterials (NMs) have shown promise in overcoming some of the obstacles associated with H 2 production. This review focuses on the use of NMs in TC and BL processes for H 2 generation. Additionally, the paper provides a brief overview of the methods and financial considerations involved in enhancing biomass-based H 2 production. Studies indicate that the production of bio-H 2 is relatively expensive. Direct bio-photolysis costs range from $2.13 kg−1 to $7.24 kg-1, indirect bio-photolysis costs range from $1.42 kg−1 to $7.54 kg−1, fermentation costs range from $7.54 kg−1 to $7.61 kg−1, biomass pyrolysis costs range from $1.77 kg−1 to $2.05 kg−1, and gasification costs $1.42 kg−1. The paper also explores various challenges related to biomass conversion and utilization for H 2 production, aiming to better understand the feasibility of a biomass-based H 2 economy. [Display omitted] • The biological and thermochemical routes for renewable H 2 are elucidated and compared. • Biological routes basically have low H 2 production rate than thermochemical ones. • Ni and Fe are the most promising nanomaterials for H 2 production. • Economic analysis and challenges associated with both routes are explained. • Future research directions are presented based on identified literature gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction kinetics of DRM over high-performance Ni–W/Al 2 O 3 –MgO bimetallic catalyst is investigated in a fixed bed reactor. The variation of reaction rate is examined within the CH 4 and CO 2 partial pressure from 0.2 to 0.6 atm and the temperature range of 600oC–800 °C. It is found that the rate of reaction for DRM is more sensitive to CH 4 partial pressure compared to CO 2 partial pressures. At a constant partial pressure of CO 2 and increasing the CH 4 partial pressure, the increase in the reaction rate is more than reverse conditions. The activation energies of consumption of CH 4 and CO 2 were found to be 45.9 and 31.9 kJ/mol, respectively, showing a higher energy barrier for CH 4 activation than CO2. Four typical kinetic models then fitted the experimental results obtained, i.e., Power Law, Langmuir- Hinshelwood and Eley-Rideal model I and II. The Langmuir-Hinshelwood model showed the best fitting between experimental and estimated reaction rates. [Display omitted] • Ni–W catalyst was studied for DRM reaction and tested for various kinetic models. • Reaction rate is found more sensitive to partial pressure of CH 4 compared to CO 2. • Activation energies of CH 4 and CO 2 consumption were 45.94 kJ/mol and 31.92 kJ/mol. • The LH-model showed best fitting curve for results with R2 value equal to 0.983. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen-based energy solutions are among the alternative energy choices due to their clean emissions and high efficiency. H 2 is a highly convenient energy source, particularly if derived from sustainable feedstock. With the renewed emphasis on biodiesel production globally, large quantities of glycerol are expected to be produced as a major by-product. Reforming of this glycerol can provide a sustainable and H 2 -rich feedstock. The study reveals that 7H 2 molecules were produced/molecule of glycerol in GSR, which is much higher than the commercially available SRM process. This also endorses the concept of circular economy and the 3Rs (Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle) by utilization of a by-product. This review highlights the recent advancements in different types of glycerol reforming technologies for H 2 production. The highly endothermic reaction and the coking of Ni-based catalysts are still the main limitations in its commercialization. It has been found that among different glycerol reforming techniques, the GSR is the finest with the least drawbacks. Hence, corresponding solutions to overcome these obstacles are deliberated. [Display omitted] • H 2 energy is current necessity to control global warming caused by fossil fuels. • H 2 production via glycerol reforming support circular economy and sustainable approach. • The H 2 molecules produced via GSR is much higher than commercial SRM technique. • Ni-based catalysts are promising, but quest for a commercial catalyst for GSR remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry reforming of methane (DRM) emerged as a green alternative to utilize major greenhouse gases (GHG's) and produce syngas. However, the main limitations of DRM are sintering and coking of catalyst. In recent decade the Ni-based catalysts has been meticulously studied for DRM reaction since noble metal-based catalysts can't be commercialized due to economic constraints. The catalyst support, synthesis techniques, effect of promoters can significantly affect the catalyst performance. Mesoporous silica (MS) supported catalysts emerged as a promising material due to their enhanced applications in catalysts with significantly high surface areas, thermal stability, and easy availability. Till date no separate study has been carried out focusing the MS as catalyst support for DRM. This comprehensive review highlights the recent advances in MS supported catalysts for DRM. Further, it focuses on reaction mechanism, reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, effect of catalyst support, synthesis route and effect of promoters on DRM performance. [Display omitted] • The performance of mesoporous silicas (MS) as Ni support in DRM was reviewed. • Unique features of MS types and how they affect support property was discussed. • Thorough appraisal of promoter and preparation route effects on Ni-MS catalysts. • Comprehensive overview of DRM thermodynamics, kinetics, and reaction mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic fast pyrolysis of cassava stalks has been intriguing as a promising, feasible chemical refinery method in terms of waste-to-energy conversion from cassava cultivation. This study aims to determine the synergetic influence of Mo and Co on Ni catalysts (Ni, Ni–Mo, and Ni–Co) prepared via ultrasonic-assisted incipient wetness impregnation method for catalytic pyrolysis vapor upgrading. The results indicated that Co and Mo enhance the reducibility of NiO and promote weak-to-medium acidity, thereby enhancing Ni's performance. Mono-Ni favors cracking deoxygenation, whereas oxophilicity promoters particularly enhance the oxygen absorbability efficiency to selective deoxygenated production. A fine Ni dispersion on CoNi/SiO 2 catalyst was observed to positively affect the production of monoaromatic hydrocarbons (46.10 %), in contrast to those without promoters (21.63 %). This is attributed to an optimal Ni-metallic distribution with a small crystal size of 7.01 nm and a high surface area of 342.6 m2 g−1, highlighting the effectiveness of the promoter-assisted Ni catalyst. Additionally, a high yield of H 2 (66.9 %) in non-condensable gas was recorded at 550 °C. The study suggests that a simplified approach to developing Ni-based catalysts could enhance the eco-friendliness of commercial catalysts, thereby facilitating the scale-up of biomass pyrolysis applications. [Display omitted] • Co, Mo boosts Ni reducibility, reduces the Ni particle. • Co, Mo raises weak-to-medium acidity in Ni/SiO 2. • Enhanced selective of BTX with the presence of the Co, Mo. • Syngas produced by reforming methane at elevated temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process parameters for dry reforming of methane (DRM) over Ni–W/Al 2 O 3 –MgO catalyst are optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The Ni–W bimetallic catalyst is synthesized by co-precipitation method followed by impregnation. The catalysts are characterized by BET, XRD, FESEM, EDX and TEM; to study physicochemical properties, morphology, composition, crystallite size and deposited carbon. The effect of process parameters, i.e., reaction temperature (600oC–800 °C) and feed gas ratio (0.5–1.5) on the CH 4 , CO 2 conversions and syngas ratio are studied. A temperature of 777.29 °C with CH 4 : CO 2 of 1.11 at GHSV of 36,000 cm3gm.cat−1h−1, delivered the CH 4 and CO 2 conversions of 87.6% and 93.3%, respectively along with H 2 :CO of 1. The predicted process parameters were verified through actual experimental analysis at the optimized conditions, and results agreed with CCD of the RSM model with insignificant error. The MWCNT formed during DRM avoided catalyst deactivation and delivered stable performance over 12 h of reaction test at the optimized conditions. [Display omitted] • Ni–W bimetallic catalyst has been synthesized and studied for DRM. • Reaction temperature is more dominant on conversion of reactants than feed ratio. • Optimal conditions for Ni–W catalyst for DRM: T = 777.29 °C and CH 4 :CO 2 = 1.11. • Optimal conversion obtained for CH 4 = 85.5% and CO 2 = 90.1% with H 2 :CO = 0.96. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrazine (AZE) is a hazardous herbicide that pollutes drinking water and wastewater at an alarming rate, posturing a somberhazard to the environment and human being. This research is aimed to investigate the valorization of biomass for the synthesis and applicationof novel Sugarcane Bagasse Cellulose (SCBC) - Graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposite for remediation of atrazine. The novel nanocomposite is characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Particle size distribution, Raman spectra analysis, X-ray analysis (XRD), Scanning electron microscope analysis (SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The prepared GOSCBC had high surface area of 189 m2/g, pore volume of 0.13 cm3/g, and inter-particle pore width of 17 nm. The impact of operating constraints such as adsorbent dose (50–150 mg), medium pH (4.5–8.5), contact period (3 h), temperature (15–45°C), and atrazine concentration (10–50 mg/L) were varied and optimum conditions were examined with the help of Box-Behnken statistical design (BBD). The optimum conditions identified were: 90.84 mg/L nanocomposite; pH 5.51; time 180 min; temperature 34.64°C and feed concentration 27.77 mg/L. The adsorption statistical analyses were performed and the values were determined using the isotherms and kinetic models; the optimal parameters were evaluated using sum of normalised errors approach. The maximum adsorption capacity of AZE was found to be 143.29 mg/g. The mechanism of sorption is well represented by PSO model. The exothermic nature of removal process was confirmed through thermodynamic parameters. The reusability of the nanocomposite was identified to be efficient for six cycles. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile effluent treatment has gained significant attention due to the carcinogenic effects of the dye pollutants present and their enhanced resistance to degradation. Porous ceramic membranes have gained growing interest for dye remediation due to various unique characteristics, including resistance to fungal invasion, adverse chemical conditions, and high temperature. The current study explores applications of ceramic membrane technology, including membranes like MF, UF, and NF, for dye remediation from textile effluent. The best-performing nanocomposite membranes for eliminating azo dyes from textile effluent and efficiencies achieved are reported as Clay-alumina (99%), yttria-stabilized-zirconia (99%), nano TiO 2 -bentonite UF (95%), and tight TiO 2 UF (100%). Ceramic nanocomposites with TiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 active layer NF (99%), Ceramic Hybrid hollow fiber LNF (99.3%). Loose nanofiltration (LNF) ceramic membranes have demonstrated outstanding targeted separation performance for the separation of dyes, making them affirm the effective recoveries and recurrent use of high-value-added constituents amongst all the membrane approaches examined. The potential of ceramic membranes for future research and development, including membrane production and mechanism, are discussed. In addition, the implementation of AI-based methods and Machine learning (ML) algorithms are discussed in relation to predicting membrane filtration performance and fouling tendencies and dye removal processes, maximizing opportunities in this field. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Selenium act as a stress alleviator for plants grown under various extreme environmental conditions. • Effect of a-tocopherol on selenium-induced changes in plants grown under salt stress is not investigated yet. • Selenium and/or a-tocopherol treated plants amplified growth and development of plants under salt stress. • Duo of selenium and a-tocopherol treatment successfully ameliorates the salt induced damage in maize plants. Individually selenium and α-tocopherol showed a pivotal role in combating abiotic stresses in plants. However, there is no report on how selenium behaves in the presence or absence of α-tocopherol under salt stress in crop plants. With this view, the present study was undertaken to dissect the interaction between selenium and α-tocopherol on growth performance, carbon metabolism, and uptake of different ions in maize plants grown under salt stress. This study was conducted with surface-sterilized seeds of maize that were soaked in deionized water (control), selenium (0.5 µM), and/or α-tocopherol (200 ppm) for 12 h before sowing and different salt levels (0, 100, 150 , and 200 mM) in the form of NaCl was created in soil. A sample of maize plants from each treatment was collected 40 days after sowing. The results revealed that salinity lowered the growth performance, chlorophyll content, insoluble sugar, carbohydrate, phenolic, flavonoid content , and different ions uptake in concentration dependent manner whereas, soluble sugar, α-amylase activity , and sodium ion increased in comparison to control plants. Moreover, selenium and/or α-tocopherol treated plants without stress significantly amplified the growth performance, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, carbohydrate, phenolic, and flavonoid content, and improved the uptake of different concentrations ions (K+, Ca+2, K+/Na+, Ca+2/Na+, and Mg+2) over the control plants. Interestingly, treatment of combined selenium and α-tocopherol to the salt-stressed plants successfully recover the loss caused by increasing salt levels in maize plants through altered carbon metabolism and ions uptake reflected in improved growth performance and bigger growth leaf area of maize plants under salt stress. Selenium and α-tocopherol in combination also enhance the antioxidative defensive mechanism through the production of phenolics and flavonoids content in maize plants under salt stress. This approach could be an effective measure to lower salt stress and enhance the crop productivity of maize plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the last few decades, the global energy requirement is soaring significantly due to the rise of global population and economic development. This resulted in colossal release of CO 2 and CH 4, emissions into the atmosphere referred as greenhouse gases (GHGs), which poses a detrimental effects for the environment. One of the sustainable solutions to curb emissions of GHGs into the atmosphere is efficient utilization of syngas in order to produce useful chemicals and fuels. A comprehensive review is presented to highlight the capability of Ni-based catalysts in methane reforming through the application of both steam and dry routes referred to as bi-reforming of methane (BRM). Ni-based catalysts were found to support favorable reaction activity as they are cheaper than many exorbitant catalysts. The metal used for catalyst support exhibits higher stability and thermal resistance with improved resistance to coke formation. This review entails recent progresses in the development of Ni-based catalysts along with physical and kinetic aspects of the BRM process. • Recent trend in bi reforming of methane (BRM) using Ni-based catalysts. • Comprehensive review on role and performance of Ni-based catalyst for BRM. • Modification of Ni-based catalyst to enhance activity, conversion and yield of syngas. • Future outlook of Ni-based catalyst for BRM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DMR is a promising technique to utilize the rising greenhouse gases and produce an alternative energy source. The main hurdle in the commercialization of DMR is the catalyst deactivation. Presently, the effect of Tungsten (W) addition on Ni-based catalysts supported on mixed oxide (Al 2 O 3 –MgO) support is tested for DMR. The Ni–W bimetallic catalysts are synthesized via co-precipitation followed by the impregnation technique. An equimolar stream of feed (CH 4 :CO 2) is used for DMR at 800 °C. The Ni–W catalyst with 4 wt% of W showed steady performance with elevated conversions of CH 4 and CO 2 , even after 24 h of DMR. The freshly and spent catalysts are characterized by BET, XRD, FESEM, EDX, elemental mapping, TPR-H 2 , TPD-CO 2 , and XPS to confirm the elemental composition and the type of carbon formed on the catalysts. The activity of Ni catalyst declined due to formation of amorphous carbon-nanosheets, whereas Ni–W catalyst remained active due to formation of MWCNT. [Display omitted] • Ni–W/Al 2 O 3 –MgO proved out to be superior then Ni/Al 2 O 3 –MgO catalyst. • Diminished carbon formation and optimum performance is seen with 4 wt% W loading. • Ni/Al 2 O 3 –MgO catalyst deactivates due to formation of amorphous carbon nanosheets. • Ni–W/Al 2 O 3 –MgO catalyst remained activated due to formation of MWCNT. • Ni–W bimetallic catalyst delivered above 90% conversion even after 12 h of DMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, ameliorative capabilities of wuxal amino (bio stimulant) under salt stress has been investigated through adaptive mechanisms and antioxidant potential in tomato plants. In the experiment, two different concentrations (2 cm L-1 and 3 cm L-1) of wuxal amino through foliar application and soil irrigation were applied to the salt (150 mM) treated tomato plants and then morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes, secondary metabolites, oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes activity were assessed at 60 days after planting. The results revealed that salt stress decreased the growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, soluble sugars and soluble protein whereas, content of proline, ascorbic acid, total phenols, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide and the activity of antioxidant enzymes activity increased under salt stress. Moreover, Wuxal amino application through foliar or soil to salt stressed plants improved morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes, total phenol and antioxidant enzymes activity. Interestingly, the deleterious impact of salinity on tomato plants were significantly reduced and it can be evident from reduced MDA and H 2 O 2 levels. These responses varied with the mode (foliar or soil) of application of Wuxal amino under different concentrations (2 cm L-1 and 3 cm L-1). It was concluded that application of Wuxal amino (2 cm L-1, foliar) and (3 cm L-1; soil) proved best and could be commercially used as eco-friendly tool for the protection of tomato plants grown under salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution due to contaminants such as particulate matter (PM) and bacteria has become a global atmospheric pollution issue. Identifying effective methods for removing PM and other contaminants such as bacteria is an important challenge, and several efforts are being made to resolve it. In this study, we introduced a polystyrene (PS) hierarchical porous nanofiber (HAP/ZIF-8 @PS HPNF) containing a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) and hydroxyapatite (HAP) for PM (PM 2.5 , PM 10) filtration and antibacterial applications. HAP/ZIF-8 @PS HPNF was manufactured by electrospinning of ZIF-8, which has a synergistic effect on the adsorption of PM and HAP that have antibacterial properties. The modified nanofibers improved the filtration performance and antibacterial activity by adsorbing PM (efficiency = 96.68% for PM 2.5 and 96.98% for PM 10) and reducing microbial populations (S. aureus and E. coli.). Thus, the well-dispersed ZIF-8 and HAP on the nanofibers, the multifunctional nanofibers are appropriate for use in environments with harmful PM as well as bacteria. [Display omitted] • An electrospinning method for synthesizing hierarchical porous nanofiber (HAP/ZIF-8 @PS HPNF). • The HAP/ZIF-8 @PS HPNF improved the filtration performance and antibacterial activity. • The adsorbing PM efficiency are 96.68% for PM 2.5 and 96.98% for PM 10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The smooth combustion process of biomass is of great importance as the world transit away from the use of fossil fuels to embracing environmentally friendly and renewable energy. Ash-related problems, such as slagging, fouling, agglomeration, and corrosion, significantly disrupt the efficient operation of gasification systems, leading to unforeseen breakdowns. Potassium, a prevalent alkali metal in biomass, reacts with chlorine and sulfur in flue gas, generating troublesome compounds. This interaction constitutes the primary source of challenges linked to biomass combustion processes. Additives, especially kaolin, an aluminum-silicate, proved most effective in capturing potassium during combustion, forming high-melting-point potassium aluminum silicate compounds. Hence, this paper provides a summary of issues related to biomass ash, explores the deposition mechanism, outlines methods to mitigate problems associated with ash, and concludes by introducing alum sludge as an outlook. [Display omitted] • Potassium in biomass set in motion ash deposition during combustion. • Biomass ash related problem include slagging and fouling, bed agglomeration and corrosion. • The use of additives, co-combustion and leaching are biomass ash deposition remedy. • Suggestion of waste sludge as an economical alternative solution for biomass ash deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Allelopathic effects of the aqueous extract of the Alhagi maurorum was investigated. • Aqueous extract of the Alhagi maurorum mediated inhibition was concentration- and species- dependent. • The phytochemical analyses revealed that the presence of several phenolic compounds. • These natural products could be used as "eco-friendly" bio-herbicides for weed control. The present work was conducted to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Alhagi maurorum at different rates (1, 5, 10, 15%, w/v) on the growth as well as some physiological parameters of pea (Pisum sativum L.). The pot experiment revealed that Alhagi maurorum aqueous extract reduced all growth parameters of pea plant along with photosynthesis pigments, insoluble sugars, total carbohydrate, total protein and total phenolics. On the other hand, soluble sugars, soluble protein, proline, flavonoids and antioxidant enzymes increased upon treatment with aqueous solution of Alhagi maurorum. The adverse effect of the extract on the growth of treated pea plants especially hydroquinone and sinapyl alcohol that were found in relatively high concentration in the extract were identified and quantified by the GC–MS of the methanolic extract of Alhagi maurorum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review highlights the latest trends in carbon capture, utilization, and storage techniques. The recent advances in the current carbon capture techniques, i.e., post-combustion carbon capture, pre-combustion carbon capture, and oxyfuel combustion systems, have been deliberated. Human exploitation of natural resources is leading to an immense rise in the concentration of greenhouse gas (GHG), i.e., primarily carbon dioxide (CO 2) in the atmosphere. This boosted quantity of CO 2 by human intervention leads to increased global temperatures and climate change. Hence there is a crucial need for fixing CO 2 to control global climate change and meet the pledges of the Paris Agreement. The global CO 2 emission hit an all-time high in 2018, emitting 32.7 billion tons of CO 2 into the atmosphere, whereas the current scenario for global CO 2 utilization constitutes a tiny amount, i.e., 0.2 billion tons/year. Hence various CO 2 utilization techniques, such as CO 2 deployment in reforming techniques and its direct conversion into fuels, have been emphasized. Finally, the CO 2 storage methods have been underlined, and the recent advancements along with the outlook in DAC technique have been discussed at the end. The DAC technique shows the most promise for future CO 2 capture and utilization, pending resolution of initial investment and techno-economic feasibility challenges. However, it's important to note that no single technique is universally applicable, and governments worldwide must address specific ground-level issues for practical solutions. [Display omitted] • In 2018, CO 2 emissions: 32.7 billion tons, utilization: 0.2 billion tons/year. • DAC method for carbon capture shows promise, economizable via CO 2 use and recycling. • Efficient thermochemical CO 2 utilization, but catalyst and reactor design need exploration. • Geological CO 2 storage is optimal with maximum stable timescale. • Afforestation: economic CO 2 sequestration, shorter storage than geological method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Low temperature declined plant growth, and metabolism parameters in tomato. • The combination of EBL and H 2 O 2 enhanced antioxidants and proline. • Low-temperature diminished expression of 20 proteins in EBL + H 2 O 2 treated plants. • Overall, O80577, Q9FJQ8, and Q9SKL2 took part in the citrate cycle pathway. Abstract The aim of current investigation was to perform proteomics and physio-chemical studies to dissect the changes in contrasting varieties (S-22 and PKM-1) of Lycopersicon esculentum under low-temperature stress. Plant grown under variable low-temperature stress were analysed for their growth biomarkers, antioxidant enzyme activities, and other physiological parameters, which headed toward the determination of protein species responding to low-temperature and 24-epibrassinolide (EBL) concentrations. The plants grown under temperatures, 20/14, 12/7, and 10/3 °C recorded significantly lower growth biomarkers, SPAD chlorophyll, net photosynthetic rate and carbonic anhydrase activity in S-22 and PKM-1. Moreover, the combined effect of EBL and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) significantly improved the parameters mentioned above and consecutively upgraded the different antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD) with higher accumulation of proline under stress and stress-free environments. Furthermore, proteomics study revealed that the maximum number of differentially expressed proteins were detected in S-22 (EBL + H 2 O 2); while treatment with EBL + H 2 O 2 + low temperature lost expression of 20 proteins. Overall, three proteins (O80577, Q9FJQ8, and Q9SKL2) took a substantial part in the biosynthesis of citrate cycle pathway and enhanced the growth and photosynthetic efficiency of tomato plants under low-temperature stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fossil fuels need a clean alternative to check elevated global temperatures. • H 2 is a promising alternative with high energy density and clean fuel characteristics. • Current H 2 production is grey and green techniques need to economize. • H 2 transport and delivery is the most critical problem, storage as metal hydrides is promising. • H 2 has enormous potential for usage in the transportation sector once techno-economic barriers are settled. The transportation sector is one of the major consumers of fuel i.e., mostly relying on fossil-based fuels. With the rising energy demand and consumption of fossil fuels, the concentration of pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs) are increasing in the atmosphere. Hydrogen (H 2) is a well-known source of clean energy options and a better alternative to fossil fuels. It has the potential to become a promising fuel for renewable transportation by providing safe, efficient, stable, accessible, and customer-friendly energy. This is due to its many characteristics, such as energy density, high calorific value, affordability, and a wide variety of production methods. H 2 has the potential to completely replace the use of fossil fuel in internal combustion engines. The review highlights the recent advances in H 2 production, storage, and transportation. Apart from the conventional steam reforming technique i.e., producing around 85% of the world's grey H 2 , several clean techniques such as partial oxidation, plasma reforming, water electrolysis, pyrolysis, and photoelectrolysis are comprehensively discussed. Despite its many advantages, H 2 storage is a significant issue. Hence, the recent advances and challenges in H 2 storage i.e., physical, and material-based techniques have been deliberated. Further, the risks involved during the production, handling, and transportation of H 2 fuel is highlighted, and the latest trends in its safety recommendations have been suggested. Finally, the techno-economic feasibility challenges and its outlook has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugars are the most important regulators that facilitate many physiological processes, such as photosynthesis, seed germination, flowering, senescence, and many more under various abiotic stresses. Exogenous application of sugars in low concentration promote seed germination, up regulates photosynthesis, promotes flowering, delayed senescence under various unfavorable environmental conditions. However, high concentration of sugars reverses all these physiological process in a concentration dependent manner. Thus, this review focuses the correlation between sugars and their protective functions in several physiological processes against various abiotic stresses. Keeping in mind the multifaceted role of sugars, an attempt has been made to cover the role of sugar-regulated genes associated with photosynthesis, seed germination and senescence. The concentration of sugars determines the expression of these sugar-regulated genes. This review also enlightens the interaction of sugars with several phytohormones, such as abscisic acid, ethylene, cytokinins and gibberellins and its effect on their biosynthesis under abiotic stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in fuel cells has been considered as an environmental-friendly and efficient technology in energy conversion systems and the field of energy storage. Herein, we propose a facile and cost-effective method for synthesizing Pd–Ni(OH) 2 nanocatalysts on Ketjen black carbon as an alternative to commercial Pt/C catalysts. First, the Pd–Ni(OH) 2 /C nanocatalyst prepare using a sonochemical and solvothermal method. Then, the Pd–Ni(OH) 2 /C nanocatalyst analysis using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Pd–Ni(OH) 2 nanoparticles with sizes of approximately 5 nm well disperse on the Ketjen black carbon. XRD use to clarify face-centered cubic Pd and amorphous Ni(OH) 2. The valence states of Pd and Ni(OH) 2 confirm using XPS. The amounts of Pd and Ni in the nanocatalyst are 12.14 and 2.21 wt%, respectively, from ICP. Pd–Ni(OH) 2 /C exhibits high performance in linear sweep voltammetry for the ORR. In addition, long-term stability and methanol tolerance confirm via chronoamperometry experiments in an alkaline solution. Pd–Ni(OH) 2 /C exhibits better durability than that of commercial Pt/C. The high current density, durability, and methanol resistance of Pd–Ni(OH) 2 /C present a potential alternative to Pt/C in proton exchange membrane fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells through a facile and cost-effective synthesis method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]