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The study mainly focuses on geometrical topographies in photochemical machining (PCM) of Monel 400, using two etchants cupric chloride (CuCl2) and ferric chloride (FeCl3). The experiments were carried out at different etchant concentrations (including a number of chloride ions and weight) and temperatures. A comparative study was carried out on the responses such as depth of etch, undercut, surface roughness (Ra), and geometrical features, viz. etch factor and aspect ratio. This study also implicates the effects of perimeter and geometry type (circle, hexagon, square, rectangle, and triangle) on behaviour of PCM process in the perspective of loss of weight and depth of etching, wherein triangular shape shows 0.1547 µm depth of etching/min and 0.0737 g/min weight loss. The results show that FeCl3 gives 0.8 µm Ra and 13.59 µm/min etch rate with 0.851 etch factor at 80℃ compared to CuCl2. The overall conclusion shows that FeCl3 performs better than CuCl2 in the aspects of PCM for Monel 400. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ICT-OEC Cu–Cl cycle is a six-step thermochemical copper-chlorine (Cu–Cl) closed-loop cycle to produce green hydrogen via water splitting. One of the critical steps in this cycle involves the electrolysis of CuCl to generate copper (Cu) and cupric chloride (CuCl 2). Using platinum as the anode material in this system is economically disadvantageous and expensive. Consequently, this work investigates the feasibility of alternative anode materials to replace platinum. Mixed Metal Oxide (MMO) coated on Ti mesh (MMO mesh) and Pt coated on Ti mesh (Pt mesh) were evaluated as suitable anode alternatives to pure Pt sheet based on their performance metrics at different voltages. The integration of MMO mesh for a 100-h Time on Stream (TOS) study at a mini-pilot scale demonstrated promising current density and efficiency values. However, performance variations were observed over prolonged operation, potentially due to changes in membrane resistance. After 100 h, the MMO mesh remained undamaged, indicating its durability for extended use. Characterization studies revealed the electrodeposited copper to have a dendritic structure with an FCC phase. The findings suggest that MMO mesh and Pt mesh are viable alternatives to platinum at operating voltages above 0.7 V in this system. [Display omitted] • Anode material investigations for green H 2 production in CuCl electrolysis. • Mixed Metal Oxide (MMO) or Pt coated on Ti-mesh are viable alternatives to pure Pt. • Alternative anodes at voltage above 0.7 V yield high efficiencies. • MMO mesh in mini-pilot single cell assembly operated for 100 h, indicates durability. • Potential to lower CuCl electrolysis voltage, boosting ICT-OEC Cu–Cl cycle efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leguminous shade trees are ubiquitous parts of tea plantations of the Terai region. However, their shed leaves might have an effect on the soil microflora under those shade trees, so it is important to find out how leaf litter affect the soil microflora. Isolation of soil microbial consortia followed by downstream experiments were conducted to observe the tolerance/susceptible pattern of those soil microflora against the fallen leaves. Sample from under Albizia odoratissima has higher organic carbon, organic matter and nitrogen content but the same property was found to be low in the sample collected under Melia azedarach. Isolation of consortia was done on nutrient agar. In vitro tolerance assay was conducted to find out the tolerance pattern against leaf extracts, heavy metal salts, pesticides, antibiotics and antifungals. Heavy metals salts like Arsenic trioxide (AS2O3) and Cupric chloride (CuCl2); and pesticides like Thiamethoxam; Spiromesifen; Phorate etc. showed no inhibition against all the isolated consortia. Co-Trimoxazole and Augmentin have not showed any inhibition except consortia under Derris robusta, whereas no antifungals but Itraconazole had an impact over all the consortia. Shade trees, being a crucial member of the tea plantations, cannot be removed but replacement of these with other species could be a probable option, besides this limited use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers should be taken into consideration strictly to restrain the microbial population in tea garden soil. So, this study has disclosed the acceptability of each and every shade tree used in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu-PMMA nanocomposite films have been prepared via ex-situ chemical route by reduction of cupric chloride dissolved in aqueous CTAB solution with hydrazine and then incorporated the prepared Cu nanoparticles in a solution of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in chloroform and cast into thin films. Optical and structural characterizations of resulting nanocomposite films were performed using UV-visible spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Characteristic Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) peak of Cu nanoparticles was observed at about 2.14 eV (577 nm) in absorption spectra of Cu-PMMA nanocomposite films. From the observation of absorption spectra, the optical band gap and Urbach's energy values have been calculated. Band gap values of Cu-PMMA nanocomposite films were found to decrease from 3 eV to 2.4 eV, while Urbach's energy values increased with the increase in the concentration of Cu nanoparticles in PMMA. The decrease in the optical band gap and increase in Urbach's energy values indicated the modifications in the optical band structure of the PMMA matrix on the incorporation of Cu nanoparticles. TEM micrograph revealed spherical Cu nanoparticles embedded in PMMA with an average diameter of 6.5+ 2.5 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced volatile sulfur compounds emitted from e.g. livestock production and biogas production facilities contribute to general air pollution and local odour nuisance. Improved technologies are required to mitigate the emissions of both hydrogen sulfide and organic sulfur compounds. The present study examines the oxidative absorption of reduced sulfur compounds, i.e. hydrogen sulfide, methanethiol and dimethyl sulfide in a wet oxidation process with cupric chloride. It was found that this process efficiently removes both hydrogen sulfide and methanethiol with removal efficiencies >94% under all process conditions tested, while the removal of dimethyl sulfide was in the range 20–40%. The main products determined were dimethyl disulfide, dimethyl trisulfide and elemental sulfur. It was shown that the process was more efficient than the similar process with ferric ions and higher removal could be obtained with lower residence times. Furthermore, though employing cupric ion as metal catalysts results in the production of gaseous sulfur compounds, it is estimated that this process is efficient for deodorization due to the higher odour threshold values of the product compounds and the pH range is optimal for gas streams containing CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of 2-benzimidazolethiole (L) with copper dichloride in the presence of two equivalents of triphenylphosphine led to a binuclear complex of the type [Cu(L)2(Ph3P)2Cl2]: dichloridobis(µ-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazole-2-thione) bis(triphenylphosphine)-di-copper. The Cu(I) compound has been fully identified by elemental analysis, molar conductivity, FT-IR, UV/Vis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD). The XRD study reveals that the complex has distorted tetrahedral geometry around the Cu(I) center, which contains two bridge sulfur atoms. The Hirshfeld surface mapped over dnorm, shape index, and curvature revealed important H...H, H...C/C...H, and H...Cl/Cl...H intermolecular interactions as the main contributors to crystal packing. The natural bond orbital (NBO) was applied to understand the strength of nucleophilic and electrophilic attack between ligands and Cu(I) ions. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) was employed to demonstrate the molecular reactivity and stability of the ligands and copper complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete reaction of chalcopyrite at ≥220 °C under pressure oxidation conditions (10 or 20% w/w pulp density, PO2 700 kPa) is a clean, near complete process, yielding high copper extractions (~99%) in an acidic leach liquor composed of dissolved metal sulphates, when high-quality process water is employed. However, when the process water contains chloride ions, here 3–100 g/L, although the copper extraction rate is enhanced, complete oxidation of sulphur under batch processing conditions is delayed. Chloride addition, therefore, appears to favour an oxidation mechanism that liberates cupric ions and preferentially forms elemental sulphur over sulphate. This provides evidence for the decoupling of the copper extraction and sulphate formation reactions. Increasing the reaction temperature, here to 245 °C, increases the rate of sulphuric acid formation and decreases the iron concentration in the leach liquor. The study also examines the effects of various upfront acid and other salt additions upon copper extraction. Added sulphuric acid was shown to slow the reaction, whereas salts such a cupric chloride and sodium sulphate had small effects on the rate and extent of copper extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some novel copper complexes are synthesized by reacting copper(II) dichloride and copper(II) dibromide with a series of pyridyl‐imine ligands differing in the nature of the substituents at the iminic carbon and at the imino nitrogen atom. All the complexes are characterized by analytical and infrared data: for some of them single crystals are obtained, and their molecular structure is determined by X‐ray diffraction. The complexes are combined with methylaluminoxane (MAO) for the polymerization of 1,3‐dienes (i.e., 1,3‐butadiene and isoprene) obtaining active and selective catalysts and, in case of isoprene, polymers with quite unusual structures, i.e., predominantly alternating cis‐1,4‐alt‐3,4 structures containing cis‐1,4 units sequences within the polymer chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral cancers are often detected at late stages, and patients usually had a 50% chance of a 5-year survival rate. Oral cancer usually has an early precancerous stage before its actual malignant transformation. Although there are various approaches to diagnose the early stages of cancer, there is one less explored, cost-effective, and simple technique known as the crystallization test. The aim of the study was to evaluate the crystallization patterns in tobacco users, oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), and oral malignancies. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients with oral malignancies, 15 patients with oral potentially malignant disorders, 15 tobacco users, and 15 healthy individuals participated in the crystallization test. Single blood drop was used to perform this test and the obtained crystal patterns were analyzed. Results: This test had a sensitivity of 93.3%, 80.0%, and 20.0% for oral malignancies, oral Potentially Malignant Disorders (PMDs), and tobacco users, respectively. Chi-square analysis revealed a highly significant transverse form between OPMDs and oral malignancies (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Crystallization test was found to be a sensitive, reliable, economical, and less invasive procedure for screening of oral PMDs and oral malignancies under strictly maintained physical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wet-etching process has been used to manufacture electronic devices including wafers, panels, and printed circuit boards, since it is economical and effective. In the high-tech industry, graphene or carbonated films that have undergone chemical vapor deposition are frequently employed. The copper residue or foil on these films is removed using a Cu etchant. The Cu etchant composition, on the other hand, has corrosive and thermally unstable properties, which must conduct its hazardous properties and thermal runaway potential during the metal-etching process. This study aims to assess the thermophysical information of the Cu etchant reacting with copper powder, cupric sulfate, and cupric chloride using an adiabatic calorimetric approach. To fit the self-heating rates of different Cu-etching solutions, the thermokinetic data are first evaluated. The self-heating models are then simulated to evaluate thermal incompatibility for the Cu-etching process. The Cu etchant-involving copper shows the most incompatible hazard among the etching solutions. As a result, the thermal incompatibility analysis can determine the design for a safe etching process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An N‐heterocyclic carbene palladium (NHC‐palladium)‐catalyzed cascade annulation of alkynoic acids with unactivated alkenes under an oxygen atmosphere in ionic liquids is described. This protocol enables facile access for the preparation of diverse alkyl substituted α‐methylene‐γ‐lactones in moderate to good yields with excellent Z/E selectivity. Moreover, the ionic liquid not only acts as the green solvent, but also as the eco‐friendly chlorine source, thus avoiding the use of excess metal halides such as cupric chloride. Some preliminary mechanistic studies were performed, which further revealed possible pathways for this cascade annulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy saving and reduced consumption of key materials such as bearings in high-end equipment can be realized by synthesizing a new lubricating functional additive, copper-doped carbon quantum dot dispersion liquid (Cu-CQDs) via hydrothermal reaction with glycerol, cupric chloride dihydrate, and choline chloride as raw materials. The influence of the dispersion liquid containing Cu-CQDs nanoparticles on the lubricating properties of polyethylene glycol (PEG200) was investigated on a four-ball friction tester. The wear scars of steel balls after friction were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope accompanied by energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), photoelectron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The results revealed the friction and wear mechanism of Cu-CQDs. Cu-CQDs dispersion liquid can significantly enhance the lubrication performance of PEG. The average friction coefficient of PEG containing 2.0 wt% Cu-CQDs dispersion liquid was 40.99% lower than that of pure PEG. The friction and wear mechanism can be ascribed to friction, inducing Cu-CQDs to participate in the formation of boundary lubricating film, resulting in a low friction coefficient and wear scar diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,6‐Di(1H‐tetrazol‐1‐yl)pyridine (DTP) was prepared by a four‐stage procedure, including step‐by‐step heterocyclization of both amino groups of 2,6‐diaminopyridine with triethyl orthoformate and sodium azide. According to quantum‐chemical calculations and single crystal X‐ray diffraction data, DTP crystallizes in the form of the thermodynamically most stable conformer and has an almost flat molecular geometry. DTP was found to react with CuCl2 ⋅ 2H2O in ethanol to give the [Cu(DTP)Cl2(H2O)]n complex, which is a 1D coordination polymer, formed at the expense of bridging DTP ligand via the tetrazole ring nitrogen atoms N4. Possible coordination cites in DTP molecule are discussed using the data of quantum chemical calculations. The pyridine ring nitrogen atom of DTP does not participate in the formation of either coordination or intermolecular hydrogen bonds. This is explained by the results of quantum chemical calculations showing that this atom is less basic than N3 and N4 atoms of DTP molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dichloro(2,2′-bipyridine)copper was synthesized by reacting copper dichloride with bypyridine, and its behavior, in combination with methylaluminoxane (MAO), in the polymerization of butadiene, isoprene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3 butadiene, and 3-methyl-1,3-pentadiene was examined. The purpose of this study is to find catalytic systems that are more sustainable than those currently used for the polymerization of butadiene and isoprene (e.g., Co and Ni), but that are comparable in terms of catalytic activity and selectivity. Predominantly, syndiotactic 1,2 polybutadiene, crystalline syndiotactic 3,4 polyisoprene, crystalline syndiotactic 1,2 poly(3-methyl-1,3-pentadiene), and crystalline cis-1,4 poly(2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene) were obtained in a manner similar to that observed with the analogous iron complex. As far as we know, the investigated catalytic system represents the first example of a copper-based catalyst in the field of stereospecific polymerization. Given the great availability of copper, its extremely low toxicity (and therefore high sustainability), and the similarity of its behavior to that of iron, the result obtained seems to us of considerable interest and worthy of further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: When a dihydrate cupric chloride solution is crystallized in a petri dish in the presence of extracts of food products, dendritic crystal patterns emerge. The degree of growth, ripening and decomposition of the product is reflected in these patterns as salient unities (gestalts) of phenomenological features. In the present study we evaluated wheat, grape, and rocket (arugula) samples grown under different farming systems, fertilization treatments or horn silica application. The hypothesis of the present study was: samples are more precisely differentiated with a kinesthetic engagement in the perception of the gestalt decomposition than with ranking solely based on analytical criteria. Results: In six out of seven panel tests with three different agricultural products grown with different methods, the following rankings for accelerated decomposability were derived: For wheat: biodynamic < organic < conventional (mineral fertilization and manure) < mineral (mineral fertilization only) For grapes: biodynamic < organic < conventional (mineral fertilization and compost) For rocket (arugula): biodynamic < organic < mineral For rocket (arugula): with horn silica < without horn silica application. Analytical assessment was compared with kinesthetic priming of the evaluation panel. In six out of seven tests kinesthetic assessments (i) yielded more highly significant differences in ranking between the cultivation methods; (ii) clearly improved matching of the samples in a confusion matrix to the ranking of the cultivation methods; and (iii) generated lower RMSE values. Conclusions: Kinesthetic engagement in gestalt evaluation proved superior to an evaluation based on analytical perception. Highly significant differences between biodynamic and organic variants and also between treatments with and without horn silica application were found in six out of seven tests. In five of the six tests the only difference between organic and biodynamic variants was the application of the biodynamic preparations. The results indicate increased resistance to deterioration of the biodynamic variants, in terms of lower degradation in the crystallization images. This prompts additional research to establish whether the crystallization method can serve as a universal test to monitor the stress resistance of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite photovoltaic devices added with tin (Sn) dichloride and copper (Cu) bromide were fabricated and characterized. The thin film devices were prepared by an ordinary spin-coating technique using an air blowing method in ambient air. A decaphenylcyclopentasilane layer was coated at the surface of perovskite layer and annealed at a high temperature of 190 °C. Conversion efficiencies and short-circuit current densities were improved for devices added with Sn and Cu compared with the standard devices. The energy gap of the perovskite crystal decreased through the Sn addition, which was also confirmed by first-principles calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Water was able to leach 21 % of Co and 37 % of Ni due to weathering of sulphides. • All dissolved Co leached from oxidized phases via chemical leaching mechanism. • Electrochemical leaching enhanced Ni yield up to 63 %. • Water leaching adjusts pH inherently and results in industrially attractive PLS. Energy transition from fossil- to a material-intensive energy system is highly dependent on the availability of Co and Ni. This has increased interest towards non-traditional raw material streams such as mining waste. In this work, leaching experiments were conducted on historical flotation tailings with low concentrations of Co (0.081 wt%), Ni (0.055 wt%), Cu (0.15 wt%) and Zn (0.17 wt%). This low grade may challenge the feasibility of industrial operation, and therefore water, and commonly used mineral acids, were investigated as lixiviants for the process. The electrochemical leaching behaviour was studied using various oxidants (O 2 , Cu2+, Fe3+ and H 2 O 2). The results showed that a substantial amount of Co (21 %) and Ni (37 %) could be leached using water, with no additional oxidants or pH adjustment (80 °C, 5 min). In water leaching, the system stabilized inherently to pH =3.7 and the redox potential to E h < 0.3 V vs Ag/AgCl. This indicates that during the 32–67 years of piling, the weathering conditions had caused natural oxidation of Co– and Ni-bearing minerals such as pyrrhotite and pentlandite. The leaching yields of Co and Ni were slightly increased (5 % units for Co, 10 % units for Ni) by introducing additional acid (1 M) into the leaching system. Further addition of oxidants did not increase the leaching yield of Co, suggesting that the dissolution of Co-bearing minerals followed the chemical leaching mechanism. In contrast, some of the Ni leaching was found to be electrochemical in nature, as extraction increased up to 63 % with the use of strong oxidative (cupric chloride) conditions – most likely due to partial chalcopyrite or pentlandite leaching. Undissolved Co and Ni remained in refractory minerals such as chalcopyrite or pyrite. In addition to Co and Ni, 52 % of Zn and 37 % of Cu were also found to be soluble under acidic conditions. When considering the use of historical flotation tailings as a feed stream in hydrometallurgical processing, direct water leaching may provide an attractive and robust leaching strategy, with spontaneous inherent pH adjustment. An increase in solid-to-liquid ratio or solution circulation (higher acidity) could increase percentual Co and Ni yield and enable enrichment of the target metals in the pregnant leach solution (PLS). If flotation is considered for concentration of Co– and Ni-bearing minerals, water leaching prior to flotation is recommended, to improve both the flotation performance and overall flotation and metal recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new tetrazole ligand, 5‐amino‐2‐isopropenyltetrazole, was prepared by regioselective alkylation of 5‐aminotetrazole with allyl bromide in sulfuric acid followed by dehydrobromination of intermediate 5‐amino‐2‐(1‐bromopropan‐2‐yl)tetrazole. 5‐Amino‐2‐isopropenyltetrazole (L) was found to react with copper(II) chloride to generate complex [CuL2Cl2]n. The ligand and its complex were characterized by single crystal X‐ray and thermal analyses. Complex [CuL2Cl2]n presents 1D coordination polymer, formed at the expense of double chlorido bridges between neighbouring octahedral coordinated CuII cations. Tetrazole ligand acts as monodentate ligand coordinated by CuII cations via the heteroring N4 atoms only. Magnetic studies revealed that the copper(II) ions were weakly antiferromagnetically coupled. Natural bond orbital analysis was performed to explain the structural peculiarities of the ligand. Its basicity and the relative stability of the protonated forms were investigated using MO calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper chloride (CuCl2) is used in sulfur‐cured natural rubber (NR) to regulate disulfide exchange reaction in self‐healing process while factors influencing the healing capability remain unclear. Herein CuCl2 and other additives including zinc oxide and sulfur are used to mediate self‐healing efficiency of NR vulcanizates. For revealing the role of proteins and phospholipids in NR, the mediated self‐healing capability is compared with sulfur‐cured isoprene rubber (IR) vulcanizates. The results reveal that CuCl2 interferes rheological responses and vulcanization dynamics in both rubbers, and it causes intermolecular disassociation in NR gums. As self‐healing capability is closely related to crosslinking density, formulation is adjusted to balance healing efficiency and tensile strength. Healing efficiency of around 70% and the highest tensile strength of about 6 MPa are achieved at crosslinking density about 70 mol/m3 when vulcanizates are healed at 140°C for 30 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formation of highly interpenetrated frameworks is demonstrated. An interesting observation is the presence of very large adamantane‐shaped cages in a single network, making these crystals new entries in the collection of diamondoid‐type metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). The frameworks were constructed by assembling tetrahedral pyridine ligands and copper dichloride. Currently, the networks' degree of interpenetration is among the highest reported and increases when the size of the ligand is increased. Highly interpenetrated frameworks typically have low surface contact areas. In contrast, in our systems, the voids take up to 63 % of the unit cell volume. The MOFs have chiral features but are formed from achiral components. The chirality is manifested by the coordination chemistry around the metal center, the structure of the helicoidal channels, and the motifs of the individual networks. Channels of both handednesses are present within the unit cells. This phenomenon shapes the walls of the channels, which are composed of 10, 16, or 32 chains correlated with the degree of interpenetration 10‐, 16‐, and 32‐fold, respectively. By changing the distance between the center of the ligand and the coordination moieties, we succeeded in tuning the diameter of the channels. Relatively large channels were formed, having diameters up to 31.0 Å×14.8 Å. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simulation-based life cycle assessment was conducted to compare the impacts of different cyanide-free chloride processing routes for refractory ores to determine whether one-stage leaching of gold from the ores could be advantageous over chloride leaching after conventional pressure oxidation from an environmental perspective. It was shown that both leaching conditions and the refractoriness of the ore strongly affect the environmental impacts of the process. The global warming potential in the direct leaching route was determined to vary between 7.7–17.0 t CO2-eq for 1 kg gold/Au. Prerequisites for the sustainable application of the direct leaching process are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuning the optical and electrical properties of semiconductors by designed doping is the basis of most energy-related semiconductor optoelectronic devices. In this Letter, we report the dopant compensation effect of P-type doped MAPb1−x CuxI3 alloyed perovskite crystals. MAPb1−xCuxI3 single crystals were prepared by the inverse temperature crystallization method using cupric chloride (CuCl2) as the doping source. By XRD, XPS, STEM, and photoluminescence (PL) spectra analyses, we demonstrate that the doped cupric (Cu2+) ions can partially substitute lead (Pb2+) ions and form Cu–Pb based crystal semiconductor alloys of MAPb1−xCuxI3 with tunable bandgap by controlling the Pb/Cu ratio. More detailed XPS analysis of the doped crystal shows that the Cu2+ ions in MAPb1−xCuxI3 are partially reduced by I− ions, and the coexistence of two valence states of Cu species (Cu2+ and Cu+) was observed in the doped crystals. Hall results of MAPb1−xCuxI3 semiconductors show that the presence of reduced Cu+ ions impels the change of conductive type from weak N-type to P-type obviously, while the resistivity of doped MAPb1−xCuxI3 increases significantly from 104 to 107 Ω cm. The defect-related optical fingerprints of cupric doped crystals were investigated in detail by temperature-dependent PL spectroscopy. The pristine MAPbI3 perovskite crystal exhibits intrinsic donor bound exciton (D0X) luminescence at low temperature (10 K), while the doped MAPb1−xCuxI3 perovskites exhibit donor-acceptor or bound exciton (A0X) peaks related to a Cu+ dopant in sequence with the increase in the Cu ion content. These results indicate that the doping of Cu2+/+ ions into the MAPb1−xCuxI3 crystal not only changes the semiconductor bandgap but also causes the dopant compensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photosensitive anisotypic CuFeO2/n-InSe heterojunctions were fabricated by the method of low-temperature spray pyrolysis. An aqueous solution of copper dichloride CuCl2∙2H2O and iron trichloride FeCl3∙6H2O was sprayed onto the InSe substrate heated to 623 K. As a result, p-type CuFeO2 films with a thickness of ~ 0.3 µm and a band gap of 2.6 eV were obtained. Contacts were formed using silver-based conductive paste. The I-V characteristics were studied at temperatures from 295 to 336 K. It was shown that the temperature dependence of the height of the potential barrier is linear. Based on the analysis of the temperature dependences of forward and reverse I-V characteristics, the dynamics of change of energy parameters was established and the role of energy states at the boundary of the heterojunction in the formation of the contact potential difference was clarified. The approximation of I-V characteristics was carried out within the framework of the model, which takes into account the influence of series and shunt resistances. The values of the diode coefficient, series and shunt resistances of the heterojunction were found. The mechanisms of formation of direct and reverse currents through the CuFeO2/n-InSe energy barrier were determined. The spectral dependence of the quantum efficiency of heterojunctions in the range of photon energies from 1.2 to 3.2 eV was studied. The effect of light absorption in heterostructure materials on its general photosensitivity was analyzed. The obtained results confirmed the promise of CuFeO2/n-InSe heterojunctions for photoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals adsorption by adsorbents prepared from natural materials is a low-cost effective method for their removal from aqueous environments. This study aims to assess the applicability of orange zest biochar to adsorb divalent copper (cupric chloride) from its aqueous solution by maximizing the adsorption capacity using feed-forward back-propagation neural network (FFBPNN)–Box–Behnken design (BBD) modelling. BBD modelling predicted the maximum of 99.61% copper removal at an initial concentration of copper, adsorbent dosage and temperature of 100 ppm, 192.5 mg per 100 mL of feed solution and 38 °C. The results showed the best fit between experimental, BBD and FFBPNN predicted values. Langmuir isotherm fitted well with the experimental data than Freundlich model, and the maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 116.28 mg/g. Also, adsorption kinetic data followed the Lagergren's pseudo-first-order kinetic model. Thus, the obtained results conclude that the orange zest biochar was found to be one of the potential adsorbents for the removal of divalent copper from its aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For achieving the fine pitch chip-on-film (COF) in display devices, wet chemical spray etching behaviors of the copper (Cu) films in the etching solutions with different cupric chloride (CuCl2) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) contents have been investigated. It is found that the etching rates and etching factors of the Cu films are strongly dependent on the composition of etchant solution and spray pressure, resulting from the chemical dissolution reaction and the kinetic energy of droplet, respectively. As a result, using the mixture of the CuCl2 and HCl, Cu films are defined successfully by wet chemical spray etching method, suggesting sufficient possibility for the application to fine pitch COF in the display devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Highly conductive sandwich structure embedded with Cu nanoparticles for EDLC. • Sandwich structure includes CC layer, porous Cu/N-doped carbon layer, carbon flocculation layer. • EO-Cu/N-CC exhibited a high specific capacitance of 3546 mF cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2. • EO-Cu/N-CC cell achieve energy density of 23 mWh cm−3 at a power density of 179 mW cm−3. In carbon-based electric double-layer capacitors (EDLC), an ideal electrode should have convenient mass transport, ensuring rich porosity and rapid electron transfer, guaranteeing the electrode bulk's high conductivity. In this study, ultrafine Cu nanoparticles inserted carbon flocculation is formed on carbon cloth using polydopamine and cupric chloride precursors via pyrolysis and electrochemical oxidation reaction. As a result, the obtained electrode has a large surface area of 55.5 m2g−1 and high conductivity of 48.7 S/mm, which shows excellent charge storage capability with high specific capacitance of 3546 mF cm−2 at a current density of 1 mA cm−2. Moreover, when the as-prepared electrode is used as electrodes in symmetric EDLC, it can provide a high energy density of 23 mWh cm−3 with a power density of 179 mW cm−3, making it as a promising carbon electrode for practical EDLCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-oxidation of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) filament is one of the important processes for the preparation of PAN based carbon fiber. Aiming at the problem that carbon fiber is easy to break in the weaving process, which affects the weaving efficiency and fabric quality, the pre-oxidation of PAN filament fabric is discussed. PAN filament bundle was pretreated with boric acid solution of 5% mass fraction in saturated cupric chloride solution, and the pretreated PAN filament bundle was woven into plain fabric, and then PAN fabric was pre-oxidized using muffle furnace. The structure and thermal properties of pre oxidized pan fabric were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetry (TG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that there were slightly more grooves on the fiber surface in the pre-oxidation fabric than in the pre-oxidation filament under the same pre-oxidation process conditions. The aromatization index of pre-oxidation fabric was higher than that of pre-oxidation filament. The weight loss temperature of fibers from pre-oxidation fabric was about 20 ℃ higher than that of pre-oxidation filament. The variation coefficient of single fiber strength from pre-oxidized PAN fabric was smaller than that from pre-oxidized PAN filament, and variation coefficient of single fiber strength of pre-oxidized PAN fabric was large than that of pre-oxidized PAN filament. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of novel 3‐(4,5‐dichloro‐2‐fluorophenyl)‐1‐phenyl‐4‐(3‐phenylisoxazol‐5‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazole(7a–p) has been achieved via [3 + 2] heteroannulation reaction 3‐(3‐[4,5‐dichloro‐2‐fluorophenyl]‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐phenylprop‐2‐en‐1‐one(6a–p) and hydroxylamine hydro chloride using cupric acetate as homogenous precatalyst. Pyrazole derivatives were prepared by using etidronic acid as catalyst followed by Vilsmeier‐Haack reaction. An efficient green synthesis of isoxazole derivatives bearing pyrazole ring has been demonstrated with excellent yields. Structures of novel isoxazole derivatives were confirmed by elemental analysis and 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Mass, IR spectral studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present paper investigates the dissolution behavior of copper from chalcopyrite concentrate sample using cupric chloride solution in detail. Response surface modeling (RSM) in combination with d-optimal design (DOD) was utilized for modeling and optimizing the cupric chloride leaching process. At first, a quadratic polynomial model was developed for the relationship between the recovery of copper and influential factors. The predictions indicated an excellent agreement with the experimental data (with R2 of 0.9399). Then, the effects of main factors including pH (1-4), liquid/solid ratio (2-7 mL/g), temperature (70-90 °C), CuCl2 concentration (6-35 g/L), and leaching time (0.5-16) were determined. The findings demonstrated that the temperature and CuCl2 concentration were the most effective factors on the dissolution rate of copper from chalcopyrite sample, while liquid/solid ratio had the lowest impact. The recovery of copper increased linearly with an increment in the liquid/solid ratio and the decrease in the pulp pH. Additionally, the recovery enhanced by increasing the temperature and CuCl2 concentration owing the generation of Cu–Cl complexes species and reached a plateau point and then almost remained unchanged. Meanwhile, it was found out that the recovery of copper was independent of the interaction between factors. Moreover, the optimization of leaching process was carried out by Design Expert (version 7) software and desirability function method and the highest recovery of copper was found to be about 86.1% at a pH of ~1.4, temperature of 89 °C, liquid/solid ratio of 6.8 mL/g, CuCl2 concentration of 21.79 g/L and leaching time of ~8 h.

Here, a novel yuba-like porous carbon microrod is prepared via a simple and facile strategy by using the fluffy fibers of celosia cristata petals (FCCP) as the raw material. The optimized carbon microrod (FCCP-CM-900) possesses unique yuba-like structure, high specific surface area (1680 m2 g−1) and large pore volume (0.98 cm3 g−1), and effective nitrogen (∼4.52 at.%) and oxygen (∼5.49 at.%) doping, which can enhance the wettability and conductivity (7.9 S cm−1). As the electrode material for supercapacitor, FCCP-CM-900-based supercapacitor presents high specific capacitance (314.5 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) in 6.0 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. The FCCP-CM-900-based symmetrical supercapacitor displays high energy density (18.6 Wh kg−1 at 233.4 W kg−1) and outstanding cycling stability (98% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles) in 1.0 M Na 2 SO 4 electrolyte. In addition, served as oxygen reduction electrocatalyst, the FCCP-CM-900 also exhibits excellent catalytic activity, good durability, together with high methanol tolerance in alkaline electrolyte, which makes it a highly efficient air cathode material toward zinc–air cell. A novel yuba-like porous carbon microrod is prepared via a simple and facile strategy by using FCCP as the raw material. The optimized carbon microrod (FCCP-CM-900) possesses unique yuba-like structure, high specific surface area and large pore volume, and effective nitrogen and oxygen doping. FCCP-CM-900 exhibits excellent capacitive performance and good electrocatalytic activity toward ORR. [Display omitted] • A novel yuba-like porous carbon microrod (PCM) was prepared from celosia cristata. • The PCM was constructed by using cupric chloride as the activation agent. • The PCM based supercapacitor exhibited good capacitive performance. • The PCM showed excellent ORR electrocatalytic activity in alkaline media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water has a complex structure and contains impurities, the chemical composition of which is determined not only by the natural content, but also by the conditions of processing and preparation for consumption. It is known that water can crystallize into ice at low temperatures and form crystals and snowflakes with different patterns. But such crystals are not stable at higher temperatures because of melting. Therefore, it is quite difficult to study crystallized water without special equipment. With the aim of elucidating the possibility of visual morphological integral registration of the crystallographic pattern, three specimens of drinking water were crystallized with addition of a crystal-forming substance. This method is based on changing the crystal formation process after addition of another substance or a solution to the crystal-forming substance. Copper dichloride CuCl2⋅2H2O can serve as such a sensitive crystal-forming substance. This method is called thesiography. Drinking water samples with different chemical compositions—in particular, water from a well for domestic use, water supplied centrally for human consumption in accordance with DSTU 7525 : 2014 (State Standard of Ukraine), and natural mineral table water not subjected to technical treatment—are studied. The crystallographic patterns are visually inspected for the morphology after their formation with use of temperature contrasting for better visualization. It is found that a crystallographic portrait of water can be obtained by crystallizing water with a crystal-forming substance. The constituent components of water are embedded in the crystal lattice of the crystal-forming substance, i.e., copper dichloride CuCl2⋅2H2O. Therefore, thesiography of water is a promising method to obtain portrayal characteristics of various drinking water samples and can be used to assess water quality. Different water samples have different crystallographic patterns due to the different chemical compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two integrated configurations for H 2 production from solid oxide fuel cell waste heat are compared. • PEM electrolyzer and Cu-Cl electro-thermochemical are considered in two different scenarios. • Water scrubbing-based biogas upgrading system is used to supply input feed to a solid oxide fuel cell. • Opting for Cu-Cl cycle over PEM/CO 2 power cycle enhances economic and thermodynamic conditions. • Exergy, economic, optimization and uncertainty analyses are used to determine optimal conditions. The efficient and cost-effective design of an integrated structure relying on a biogas-based fuel cell for hydrogen (H 2) production can represent a key step to attain the goal of net-zero carbon emissions. In this paper, waste heat and generated power of the hybrid configuration based on the biogas purification cycle and solid oxide fuel cell are utilized to produce H 2. In the first H 2 production scenario, the waste heat and power are used in a copper-chlorine (Cu-Cl) thermochemical plant and a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysis unit. In the second H 2 production scenario, the power and waste heat are employed in a carbon dioxide power process and a PEM electrolyzer. Using an energy analysis, the thermal efficiency of the Cu-Cl/PEM-based system is 25.19% greater than that of the PEM-based system. The exergy efficiency of the Cu-Cl/PEM- and PEM-based systems are calculated at 48.10% and 40.12%, respectively. The prime cost of H 2 for the Cu-Cl/PEM-based system is 27.64% smaller compared to that of the PEM-based system. From the thermodynamic and economic perspectives, the first H 2 production scenario seems superior compared to the second one. Sensitivity analysis, machine learning, and multi-objective optimization approaches are used to extract the optimum conditions on the Pareto front. Biogas flow rate, cupric chloride change ratio, and inlet air to fuel cell as the inlet parameters and H 2 flow rate, net annual profit, and irreversibility as the output parameters in the machine learning analysis are considered. The parameters used in the machine learning analysis are obtained from the sensitivity analysis of the first scenario. Various decision criteria are employed to select the optimum operating conditions in the Pareto front. Using particle swarm optimization, the TOPSIS technique determines the operating conditions that have the highest H 2 production (i.e., 171.3 kg/h) and net annual profit (i.e., 3.407 MMUSD/yr). The fuzzy Bellman-Zadeh method introduces the conditions that have the lowest irreversibility for the first scenario. The uncertainty levels of the objective functions are examined using a Monte Carlo-based uncertainty quantification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonyl-functionalized carbon porous leaves modifying carbon channels have been reported via single-step wood carbonization. A redox reaction between carbonyl and cupric chloride endows the freestanding electrode with an ultrahigh area specific capacitance of 13.1 F cm−2 (30 mA cm−2) and over 99.6% retention after 45 000 cycles in supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypocrellins are anthraquinone that can act as excellent photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy. In the present work, we found that high‐speed countercurrent chromatography using cupric chloride as a complexing agent effectively separated hypocrellins from Shiraia bambusicola extract. The optimal two‐phase solvent system consisted of petroleum ether/ethyl acetate/methanol/water (7:3:5.5:4.5, v/v/v/v), with 0.01 mol/L cupric chloride in the lower phase at pH of 2.45. This lower phase served as the mobile phase, whereas the upper phase acted as the stationary phase. Employing a continuous separation mode, three continuous injections were found to allow the purification of 1.2 g of crude extract in approximately 12 h. Hypocrellin B (10.8 mg), hypocrellin A (16.2 mg), and hypocrellin C (15.6 mg) were obtained from this process. Simulation of complexation of hypocrellin A with divalent copper ion by computational chemistry calculations indicated that three pairs of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups in hypocrellin A had similar binding energies, and demonstrated that hypocrellin A and B owned different metal‐to‐ligand ratios as compared to hypocrellin C. These factors could modify the partitioning of these compounds in two‐phase solvent system, and resulting in a suitable separation factor. This method would also be used to purify other anthraquinones from natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an aqueous sol–gel route involving zinc acetate dihydrate and cupric chloride as precursors was used to obtain intrinsic and Cu-doped ZnO thin films onto SiO2/n-Si and glass substrates. Various concentrations of Cu ranging from 1 to 5% were used to modify the ZnO crystal structure. The effect of Cu-doping was evaluated by means of various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) proved increased grain density and evolution of grain shape from circular to hexagonal with Cu incorporation in the ZnO host lattice. Furthermore, atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that grain size increases with increasing Cu concentration. Moreover, X-ray diffraction (XRD) investigations reported a small influence of Cu-doping on the lattice constant value. However, Cu-doping level impacts the mean crystallite size, and consequently, the amount of dislocations emerging from the boundaries of the mosaic blocks. Finally, optical measurements proved the decrease of film transparency, as well as bandgap narrowing effect with increasing dopant concentration from 1 to 5%. As a result, copper incorporation into ZnO films using the proposed low-cost sol–gel method has the ability to tune the bandgap of ZnO-based materials and to promote extra charge carrier generation, which is highly beneficial for UV optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Polyaniline is well known for enhancing hydrophilicity and antifouling properties, which could be beneficial for protein separation processes in membranes. The development of polyaniline in the presence of cupric chloride as an oxidant was a target for better distribution. RESULTS: Biofouling‐resistant hydrophilic membrane surfaces were developed via in situ polymerization of aniline on a polysulfone membrane surface. Membrane surface modifications were made with various percentages of monomer (0.5, 1 and 2%). All the modified membranes exhibited improved membrane surface properties. The modified membrane (Poly(Sulf‐Ani‐2)) containing 2% aniline as a monomer in polymerization solution showed the best hydrophilicity, exceptional permeability and better protein rejection ability as well as enhanced anti‐biofouling property. CONCLUSIONS: In situ polyaniline attachment might be an easy and beneficial technique for the fabrication of hydrophilic membrane surfaces for large‐scale industrial applications. The attachment of polyaniline on polysulfone membrane surfaces through in situ polymerization in the present study proved to be an advanced approach for crafting better membranes with considerable hydrophilicity and fouling control enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates photoredox vicinal dichlorination of alkenes, based on the homolysis of CuCl2 in response to irradiation with visible light. This catalysis proceeds via a ligand to metal charge transfer process and provides an exciting opportunity for the synthesis of 1,2‐dichloride compounds using an inexpensive, low‐molecular‐weight chlorine source. This new process exhibits a wide substrate scope, excellent functional group tolerance, extraordinarily mild conditions and does not require external ligands. Mechanistic studies show that the ready formation of chlorine atom radicals is responsible for the facile formation of C−Cl bonds in this synthetic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates photoredox vicinal dichlorination of alkenes, based on the homolysis of CuCl2 in response to irradiation with visible light. This catalysis proceeds via a ligand to metal charge transfer process and provides an exciting opportunity for the synthesis of 1,2‐dichloride compounds using an inexpensive, low‐molecular‐weight chlorine source. This new process exhibits a wide substrate scope, excellent functional group tolerance, extraordinarily mild conditions and does not require external ligands. Mechanistic studies show that the ready formation of chlorine atom radicals is responsible for the facile formation of C−Cl bonds in this synthetic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates photoredox vicinal dichlorination of alkenes, based on the homolysis of CuCl2 in response to irradiation with visible light. This catalysis proceeds via a ligand to metal charge transfer process and provides an exciting opportunity for the synthesis of 1,2‐dichloride compounds using an inexpensive, low‐molecular‐weight chlorine source. This new process exhibits a wide substrate scope, excellent functional group tolerance, extraordinarily mild conditions and does not require external ligands. Mechanistic studies show that the ready formation of chlorine atom radicals is responsible for the facile formation of C−Cl bonds in this synthetic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates photoredox vicinal dichlorination of alkenes, based on the homolysis of CuCl2 in response to irradiation with visible light. This catalysis proceeds via a ligand to metal charge transfer process and provides an exciting opportunity for the synthesis of 1,2‐dichloride compounds using an inexpensive, low‐molecular‐weight chlorine source. This new process exhibits a wide substrate scope, excellent functional group tolerance, extraordinarily mild conditions and does not require external ligands. Mechanistic studies show that the ready formation of chlorine atom radicals is responsible for the facile formation of C−Cl bonds in this synthetic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential for simultaneously incorporating nano-copper oxide (CuO) while synthesizing phenol–formaldehyde (PF) resin using different concentrations of cupric chloride (CuCl2) was studied. Curing kinetics, resin morphology, as well as physical and mechanical properties of oriented strand boards produced using the modified PF resin were evaluated. Nano-CuO showed a positive effect on the PF resin curing reactions that was characterized by a significant decrease in the activation energy within conversion degree of 65%. X-ray photoelectron spectrometric analysis showed that bivalent CuO was present in the modified PF resin. Laser scattering particle analysis showed that more than 40% of CuO was in the nanoparticle range. Four types of nano-CuO crystal structures were observed. Incorporation of nano-CuO derived from a 40% concentration of CuCl2 into the PF resin gave a 74% increase in perpendicular MOR. 2-h thickness swelling of PCu-0.5 was improved significantly. The findings of this work have potential application to the engineered wood composites manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of 2-methoxy-5-chlorophenyllithium with SbCl3 (3 : 1) in diethyl ether has afforded tris(2-methoxy-5-chlorophenyl)antimony, which has been crystallized from benzene as solvate. Treatment of the solvate with bromine in chloroform has led to the formation of tris(2-methoxy-5-chlorophenyl)antimony dibromide, which has been isolated from benzene as solvate as well. The product of a similar reaction with chlorine, tris(2-methoxy-5-chlorophenyl)antimony dichloride, has been also obtained via oxidation of tris(2-methoxy-5-chlorophenyl)antimony with copper dichloride in acetone. The structural features of the obtained compounds have been established by means of single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Crystallization test is based on the principle that, when a salt crystallizes out of an aqueous solution, the crystal growth is influenced by the presence of other substances in the solution, such as blood or plant extracts. If a mixture of copper chloride solution with a small amount of whole blood is allowed to crystallize under controlled experimental conditions, an aggregate of crystals forms. Crystallization method can be used as a diagnostic aid to provide information about the systemic conditions and general health of the patient.Aim: This study aims to study the patterns of crystallization and to further determine the efficacy of crystallization test as a screening modality in premalignant lesions and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).Materials and Methods: Fifty patients of OSCC, 50 patients of premalignant lesions, and 50 healthy individuals were selected. One drop of blood was collected from the study groups to perform crystallization using cupric chloride.Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square test, Student's t-test (two-tailed), and analysis of variance.Results: The different patterns of crystals formed were studied and statistically analyzed.Conclusion: Based on the study, it was concluded that Crystallization test can be used as an effective screening modality for detection of premalignant lesions and OSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper is a detailed investigation of the dissolution behavior of copper from the chalcopyrite concentrate sample using a cupric chloride solution. Response surface modeling (RSM) in combination with d-optimal design (DOD) was utilized for modeling and optimizing the cupric chloride leaching process. Initially, a quadratic polynomial model was developed for the relationship between the recovery of copper and influential factors. The predictions indicated an excellent agreement with the experimental data (with R2 of 0.9399). Then, the effect of main factors including pH (1-4), liquid/solid ratio (2-7 mL/g), temperature (70-90 °C), CuCl2 concentration (6-35 g/L), and leaching time (0.5-16) were determined. The findings demonstrated that the temperature and CuCl2 concentration were the most effective factors on the dissolution rate of copper from chalcopyrite sample, while the liquid/solid ratio had the lowest impact. The recovery of copper increased linearly with an increment in the liquid/solid ratio and the decrease in the pulp pH. Additionally, the recovery enhanced by increasing the temperature and CuCl2 concentration owing to generation of Cu-Cl complexes species and reached a plateau point and then almost remained unchanged. Meanwhile, it was observed that the recovery of copper was independent of the interaction between factors. Moreover, the optimization of leaching process was carried out by Design Expert (version 7) software and desirability function method and the highest recovery of copper was found to be about 86.1% at a pH of ~1.4, temperature of 89 °C, liquid/solid ratio of 6.8 mL/g, CuCl2 concentration of 21.79 g/L and leaching time of ~8 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an alternative for platinum‐based electrocatalysts, the development of non‐precious metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is highly desirable for fuel cell applications. In this paper, we propose a facile preparation method for a B, N‐codoped Cu–N/B–C nanomaterial as an efficient electrocatalyst for ORR in alkaline electrolytes. One‐step heat treatment of cyanamide/melamine, boric acid, and cupric chloride loaded on carbon black produces a Cu–N/B–C composite with a high specific surface area. The Cu–N/B–C‐800 composite pyrolyzed at 800 °C has the best ORR performance among all tested composites. Cu–N/B–C‐800 saw an ORR onset potential at 0.95 V and a half‐wave potential (E1/2) at 0.84 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in 0.1 M KOH solution, which is comparable to the commercial 20 wt% Pt/C catalyst. Moreover, Cu–N/B–C‐800 has a small negatively shifted E1/2 value (−8.0 mV) under the accelerated‐durability test condition, demonstrating superior stability and higher tolerance to the methanol‐crossover effect compared with the Pt/C catalyst. Furthermore, the anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) loaded with Cu–N/B–C‐800 as the cathode catalyst has an open cell voltage of 0.85 V and a peak power density of 80 mW/cm2 at 60 °C without backpressure, which is in the list of optimal non‐precious metal catalysts for ORR in AEMFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel simple green synthesis route was applied to produce copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) and CuO nanograins (NGs) by using cupric chloride dihydrated as copper salt precursor, curcumin (a natural and non‐toxic food spice) as conjugated agent with or without cetyl trimethylammonium bromide acting as a stabilizing agent at extreme basic condition. Synthesis of this curcumin conjugated CuO nanoparticles was optimized by studying effect of several parameters starting with copper salt precursor, curcumin concentration, pH and temperature. Scanning electron microscopy coupled to Energy Dispersive X‐ray Analyzer, thermogravimetirc analysis, X‐ray diffraction, UV‐visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and zeta potential were used to characterize the resulted CuO NPs/NGs. In this work, the synthesized copper oxide nanograins were found to be efficient nano‐catalysts for the reduction of methylene blue and it was found that nanograin has better catalytic activity compared to spherical shape nanoparticles, emphasizing shape of the CuO particles is crucial for its nanocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]