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Composite industries focus on utilization of natural resources to imbibe sustainability in their products. This investigation details the segregation and characterization of Licuala grandis leaf sheath fibers (LGLSFs) extracted from leaf sheath of Licuala grandis tree an agro-waste for utilization as raw material in composite industries. The characteristics of LGLSF were compared with other competitive natural fibers to ensure its suitability for reinforcement in composite industry. The characterizations include chemical, mechanical, morphological, and thermal methods. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum revealed the existence of functional groups in LGLSF. The surface texture of LGLSF observed through a scanning electron microscope (SEM) ensures its possibility of making better interfacial bonding characteristics with the matrix when reinforced in polymer composites. To support the industry on decision making process, the quantitative metrics such as cellulose content (49.13 wt.%), minimum wax (0.31 wt.%), lesser density (1.24 g/cm3), higher crystallinity index (48%), tensile strength (102–179 MPa), and Young's modulus (1.3–5.4 GPa) of LGLSF were appraised. The thermal stability up to 223 °C and exothermic and endothermic behavior of LGLSF at higher temperatures were ensured through thermogravimetric (TGA/DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, respectively. The appraised quantitative values, the thermal behavior, and chemical functionality of LGLSF ensure its use as reinforcement in polymer composites employed for low density structural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to valorize button mushroom stalks (Agaricus bisporus) to extract vitamin D2 to fortify flours sustainably. Freeze-dried stalks were subjected to UV-B treatment (280–315 nm) followed by the extraction of vitamin D2 using conventional (reflux and open water bath saponification) and non-conventional techniques (ultrasonication) to obtain maximal yield. Ultrasonication followed by saponification yielded the highest extract (25.8 mg/g) with optimal vitamin D2 content (103.08 µg/g), thus attaining a recovery efficiency of 102.6% by the optimized protocol. The hexane (solvent) residue in extracted vitamin D2 (0.31 ppm) was far less than FDA-approved levels (290 ppm) and the maximum residue limit (MRL) set by the European Union (EU)/Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (1 mg/kg), thereby underscoring the safety and compliance of the extraction method with regulatory standards. Vitamin D2 enriched extract was used to fortify cereal and millet flours using surface functionalization. The homogeneity of the fortified flours was optimized using a V-blender for 20 min at 20 rpm. The vitamin D2 content varied between 12 and 13 µg per 100 g of fortified flours. The functional properties of fortified flours, namely, circularity (↑- 26–38%), aspect ratio (↓- 20–49%), Carrs Index (↓- 12–21%), Hausner ratio (↓- 1–4%), and angle of repose (↓- 4–5%) showed marked improvement indicating increased smoothness and flowability. These findings thus emphasize the potential of utilizing button mushroom stalks for extracting vitamin D2, offering a sustainable and effective means to fortify flours with improved physicochemical and functional properties. Further, studies can be carried out to assess vitamin D2 potential and efficacy of fortified flours for varied applications in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenges to feed the world in 2050 are becoming more and more apparent. This calls for producing more with fewer inputs (most of them under scarcity), higher resource efficiency, minimum or zero effect on the environment, and higher sustainability. Therefore, increasing the circularity of production systems is highly significant for their sustainability. This study investigates the utilization of waste streams from greenhouse hydroponic drainage nutrient solutions for the cultivation of the microalgae Desmodesmus sp. The cultivation was done in an automatically controlled container-scale closed tubular Photo Bio-Reactor (PBR). The study included lab-scale open-pond system experiments and in situ container-scale experiments in the greenhouse wastewater system to assess biomass growth, optical density, nitrogen consumption, and the influence of enzymatic complexes on microalgae cell breakdown. A batch-harvesting process was followed, and the harvested microalgae biomass was pre-concentrated using FeCl3 as a flocculant that has demonstrated efficient sedimentation and biomass recovery. Following microalgae sedimentation, the produced biomass was used for biostimulant production by means of a biocatalysis process. The enzymatic complexes, "EnzProt", "EnzCell", and "EnzMix" were tested for cell breakdown, with "EnzMix" at a dosage of 10% showing the most promising results. The results demonstrate successful biomass production and nitrogen uptake in the lab-scale open-pond system, with promising upscaling results within container-scale cultivation. The findings contribute to a better assessment of the needs of Desmodesmus sp. culture and highlight the importance in optimizing culture conditions and enzymatic processes for the production of biostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cost-effective production of commercially important biopolymers, such as chitosan, has gained momentum in recent decades owing to its versatile material properties. The seasonal variability in the availability of crustacean waste and fish waste, routinely used for chitosan extraction, has triggered a focus on fungal chitosan as a sustainable alternative. This study demonstrates a cost-effective strategy for cultivating an endophytic fungus isolated from Pichavaram mangrove soil in a pineapple peel-based medium for harvesting fungal biomass. Chitosan was extracted using alkali and acid treatment methods from various combinations of media. The highest chitosan yield (139 ± 0.25 mg/L) was obtained from the pineapple peel waste-derived medium supplemented with peptone. The extracted polymer was characterized by FTIR, XRD, DSC, and TGA analysis. The antioxidant activity of the fungal chitosan was evaluated using DPPH assay and showed an IC50 value of 0.22 mg/L. Subsequently, a transparent chitosan film was fabricated using the extracted fungal chitosan, and its biodegradability was assessed using a soil burial test for 50 days. Biodegradation tests revealed that, after 50 days, a degradation rate of 28.92 ± 0.75% (w/w) was recorded. Thus, this study emphasizes a cost-effective strategy for the production of biopolymers with significant antioxidant activity, which may have promising applications in food packaging if additional investigations are carried out in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally available apricot seed shell as agro-waste was used for the preparation of adsorbents. The biochar was prepared at 370°C via pyrolysis and 80 mesh particle sizes were modified by 1N HCl. Nitrate adsorption and effect of co-ions from aqueous solution were studied under batch model using apricot seed shell powder (ASSP), apricot seed shell biochar (ASSB), and activated apricot seed shell biochar (AASSB). FTIR and pHPZC measurements were used to characterize the adsorbents. Based on the experimental findings, the optimum conditions follow pH 2, 0.3g dosage, initial concentration of 50 mg.L-1, and contact time of 90 min. The three forms of adsorbent exhibited good adsorption for nitrate. However, the maximum percentage removal of nitrate ions from the aqueous solution followed the order AASSB>ASSB>ASSP. The adsorption kinetic of nitrate ion was best fitted by pseudo 2nd order, and the parameters of adsorption isotherms elucidated favorable and improved sorption. This agro-waste could be used to develop sustainable adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment methods and has great potential to replace commercially available sorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar, produced from biodegradable waste through advanced thermochemical processes like pyrolysis, offers substantial environmental benefits due to its carbon-rich composition and versatile applications. This review delves into the transformative potential of biochar derived from diverse agricultural and municipal solid wastes. With its unique properties-including a high surface area, porosity, and functional groups such as –COOH, –OH, and –NH2 biochar stands out as a highly effective adsorbent for heavy metals and organic pollutants. Factors like feedstock type, pyrolysis temperature, and residence time critically shape biochar’s characteristics and yield. Moreover, pretreatment methods and activation techniques further amplify its adsorption capacity. Biochar’s environmental applications are vast, spanning soil remediation, water purification, carbon sequestration, and waste management, all promoting ecological sustainability. Its remarkable stability and efficacy in pollutant removal highlight its potential as a catalyst and a vital component in improving soil health. Despite its many advantages, a thorough assessment of biochar’s environmental impact and long-term stability is crucial for its sustainable use. This review highlights recent biochar production, characterization, and application advances, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth with environmental development. By strategically integrating biochar into various sectors, we can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the emerging non-digestible oligosaccharide prebiotics is β-mannooligosaccharides (β-MOS). β-MOS are β-mannan derived oligosaccharides, they are selectively fermented by gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms (probiotics), whereas the growth of enteric pathogens remains unaffected or gets inhibited in their presence, along with production of metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids. β-MOS also exhibit several other bioactive properties and health-promoting effects. Production of β-MOS using the enzymes such as β-mannanases is the most effective and eco-friendly approach. For the application of β-MOS on a large scale, their production needs to be standardized using low-cost substrates, efficient enzymes and optimization of the production conditions. Moreover, for their application, detailed in-vivo and clinical studies are required. For this, a thorough information of various studies in this regard is needed. The current review provides a comprehensive account of the enzymatic production of β-MOS along with an evaluation of their prebiotic and other bioactive properties. Their characterization, structural-functional relationship and in-vivo studies have also been summarized. Research gaps and future prospects have also been discussed, which will help in conducting further research for the commercialization of β-MOS as prebiotics, functional food ingredients and therapeutic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenges to feed the world in 2050 are becoming more and more apparent. This calls for producing more with fewer inputs (most of them under scarcity), higher resource efficiency, minimum or zero effect on the environment, and higher sustainability. Therefore, increasing the circularity of production systems is highly significant for their sustainability. This study investigates the utilization of waste streams from greenhouse hydroponic drainage nutrient solutions for the cultivation of the microalgae Desmodesmus sp. The cultivation was done in an automatically controlled container-scale closed tubular Photo Bio-Reactor (PBR). The study included lab-scale open-pond system experiments and in situ container-scale experiments in the greenhouse wastewater system to assess biomass growth, optical density, nitrogen consumption, and the influence of enzymatic complexes on microalgae cell breakdown. A batch-harvesting process was followed, and the harvested microalgae biomass was pre-concentrated using FeCl3 as a flocculant that has demonstrated efficient sedimentation and biomass recovery. Following microalgae sedimentation, the produced biomass was used for biostimulant production by means of a biocatalysis process. The enzymatic complexes, “EnzProt”, “EnzCell”, and “EnzMix” were tested for cell breakdown, with “EnzMix” at a dosage of 10% showing the most promising results. The results demonstrate successful biomass production and nitrogen uptake in the lab-scale open-pond system, with promising upscaling results within container-scale cultivation. The findings contribute to a better assessment of the needs of Desmodesmus sp. culture and highlight the importance in optimizing culture conditions and enzymatic processes for the production of biostimulants.

Abstract The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices by reducing the usage of virgin materials and minimizing the environmental impact associated with textile production has increased. However, due to the subjectivity of reuse and recycling for waste management, developing textiles with sustainable and quality yarn characteristics remains a challenge. The main goal of this experiment is to produce a new sustainable blended open end (OE)‐rotor yarn by using pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and recycled waste fiber (RWF). OE‐rotor yarns are made in various proportions from RWFs generated from clothing wastes and bleached PALF at 20%, 50%, and 80%, respectively. To provide a more accurate evaluation, the properties of 100% PALF OE‐rotor yarns versus PALF‐RWF blended OE‐rotor yarns are compared. The evaluation of various physical properties led to the discovery that rotor yarns with up to 80% RWF‐PALF blended yarns had an acceptable number of physical attributes. The findings were encouraging given that the created yarns from RWF with PALF blended are less expensive than the yarns produced from standard raw materials. It also has a dual‐benefit for the manufacturers that it allows them to make money from the waste while also addressing zero waste management and disposal challenges.

Composites synthesized from natural waste and recycled plastic is quite a promising and interesting field for scientists and polymer industries. In the present study, bio-composites based on agriculture residue Sesamum indicum L. and recycled-low density polyethylene were synthesized by extrusion and injection molding technique at a fiber loading of 10–40 wt%. Additionally, 3% of maleic anhydride grafted low density polyethylene was used as a compatibilizer. The prepared composites were irradiated at 25 kGy, 75 kGy and 125 kGy doses of gamma rays. The effects of different fiber content and gamma doses on mechanical properties were studied statistically by Design Expert software. Response surface methodology was employed to depict the interaction among various factors and optimization was done by desirability index method. Findings indicated that composites having 30% Sesamum indicum L. irradiated at 125 kGy demonstrated best mechanical properties. A significant enhancement in tensile and flexural properties of irradiated composites can be explained effectively in terms of the cross-linking effect. The fiber–matrix adhesion and modifications in composite structure was characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Furthermore, thermal stability of the composites was also found to be increased. In addition, gamma-irradiated composite exhibited the highest storage modulus and a decrease in mechanical loss factor was also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices by reducing the usage of virgin materials and minimizing the environmental impact associated with textile production has increased. However, due to the subjectivity of reuse and recycling for waste management, developing textiles with sustainable and quality yarn characteristics remains a challenge. The main goal of this experiment is to produce a new sustainable blended open end (OE)‐rotor yarn by using pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and recycled waste fiber (RWF). OE‐rotor yarns are made in various proportions from RWFs generated from clothing wastes and bleached PALF at 20%, 50%, and 80%, respectively. To provide a more accurate evaluation, the properties of 100% PALF OE‐rotor yarns versus PALF‐RWF blended OE‐rotor yarns are compared. The evaluation of various physical properties led to the discovery that rotor yarns with up to 80% RWF‐PALF blended yarns had an acceptable number of physical attributes. The findings were encouraging given that the created yarns from RWF with PALF blended are less expensive than the yarns produced from standard raw materials. It also has a dual‐benefit for the manufacturers that it allows them to make money from the waste while also addressing zero waste management and disposal challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture, a legacy from our ancient ancestors, is fundamental to human survival and prosperity. Each year, the agricultural industry generates a substantial volume of agricultural and horticultural waste. Concurrently, the disposal of solid waste, particularly heavy metal ions originating from a variety of metal manufacturing industries, poses a significant societal challenge and constitutes a considerable environmental hazard. Hence, bioadsorbents are viable alternate components in comparison to conventional tactics for the wastewater purification and are capable of competing graciously in the eradication of heavy metal ions from wastewater. The review deliberates the impending use of different agricultural waste and their utilization for the removal of heavy metals and contaminants in wastewater based on their adsorption capacities and operating factors, cost-effectiveness, and practical engineering solutions. Biosorption is considered as operational and eco-friendly alternative to conventional techniques such as chemical precipitation, ion exchange, and membrane filtration for removing toxic metal ions. This review emphasizes the exploitation of readily available agricultural waste as adsorbents for mitigating environmental pollutants. It further scrutinizes the influence of various treatment methodologies on augmenting their efficacy in pollution reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally available apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) seed shell wastes were utilized for the preparation of an efficient dye biosorbent. The as-prepared apricot seed shell powder (ASP) was thoroughly characterized using FTIR, SEM-EDX, XRD, BET surface area, and pHPZC measurements to elucidate its functional groups, as well as its surface texture morphology and charge. The effect of several process variables (such as contact time, biosorbent dosage, pH, temperature, and initial concentration) on the dye uptake capacity was also investigated. Based on the experimental finding, the following optimum process conditions were established in the study: pH 2.0, 0.2 g/L adsorbent mass, 30 °C, and time of 120 min. The BET surface area, pore volume, and average pore size of the ASP were estimated as 97.493 m2/g, 0.0691 cm3/g, and 1.922 nm, respectively. The experimental equilibrium and kinetic data were properly described by the Temkin isotherm and pseudo-first-order kinetics model, respectively. Therefore, the effectiveness of ASP as an acid blue 193 dye biosorbent was established in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Straw, the primary agricultural waste, constitutes approximately 20% of the total biomass in the EU. Only a small fraction of the material is applied in various products, e.g., animal bedding, mulch, building, and composite materials, while a significantly larger portion is often burned in the field. This practice, while prohibited for several reasons, including the increased risk of fire and the release of carbon dioxide contributing to global warming, is still prevalent. Given the increasingly evident effects of climate change, EU legislation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible. One of the strategies includes applying the cascade principle in the circular economy. This principle aims to use the entire raw material, in this case, cereal crops, such that the products with the highest added value, like cellulose fibers from cereal straw, are extracted first. The vast potential for utilizing lignocellulosic agro-waste sustainably arises from its status as the most abundant organic compound on Earth. Its significant presence, renewability, and biodegradability make it a desirable source for producing materials in numerous industries. This study examines the potential of wheat fibers, isolated from the straw of two distinct cultivars (Srpanjka represents an old variety, and Kraljica represents the new variety) primarily for application in technical textiles. The following testing methods were applied: determination of wheat fibers and residues yield, fibers tensile properties, length, moisture content/regain, density, morphology, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The yield of isolated fibers relies on the wheat variety and the climatic conditions affecting plant growth, resulting in fiber yields from 10.91% to 15.34%. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis indicates reduced peak intensity, which is related to hemicellulose and lignin content, suggesting their improved deposition following the process of chemical maceration. Wheat fiber quality was found to be comparable to cotton fibers regarding its density. However, they showed a significant difference in higher moisture regain (9.72–11.40%). The vast majority of the scientific papers related to wheat fibers did not indicate the length of the individual fibers obtained by chemical maceration nor their strength. Therefore, this paper indicated that both varieties demonstrated sufficient fiber tenacity (greater than 10 cN/tex) and fiber length (2–3 cm), stressing the spinning potential of these fibers into yarns and extending their use to the apparel industry. Moreover, our research underscores the feasibility of adhering to the zero-waste principle. A high percentage of solid waste remaining after fiber extraction (25.3–39.5%) was successfully used for biofuel production, thus closing the loop in the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on recycling Shammi corn stalks in the cement industries, further avoiding air and soil pollution caused by their improper disposal. This crop residue was thermally treated at 700 °C for 2 h under an oxygen-rich environment to produce Shammi corn stalk ash (SCSA). This SCSA was used as a cement replacement material (2–10%, w/w), whereas the control sample included only cement. The compressive strength values for the 4% (w/w) replacement ratio at 2-, 7-, and 28-day ages were greater than those for the control by 26.5%, 15.8%, and 11.4%, respectively. This 4% (w/w) also maintained a better flexural strength than other mixtures, with proper initial and final setting times (135 and 190 min), workability (18.5 cm), and water consistency (27.5%). These mechanical/physical properties were integrated with socio-enviro-economic data collected from experts through a pairwise comparison questionnaire, forming the inputs of a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model. Recycling SCSA in the cement-manufacturing process attained positive scores in the achievement of the three pillars of sustainable development, revealing an overall score greater than the control. Hence, the study outcomes could be essential in developing green concrete, cement blocks, and mortar, based on the sustainable development goals (SDGs) agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the properties of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) obtained from different production processes for use as partial replacement of cement: (1) minimally post-processed (MP) SCBA, obtained by sieving and grinding SCBA from Louisiana's sugarcane field production; (2) fully post-processed (FP) SCBA, obtained by sieving, further burning under controlled conditions at temperature T, and grinding field-produced SCBA, denoted as FP-T; and (3) laboratory-produced (LP) SCBA, obtained by controlled burning at temperature T of bagasse fibers and grinding of the obtained ashes, denoted as LP-T. The temperatures of burning, T, for FP-T and LP-T SCBA were varied between 450 and 650 °C at 50 °C intervals. The significance of this study is the valorization of agricultural waste for the production of low-carbon concrete for transportation applications in Louisiana, and other locations where SCBA are produced from a low-efficiency boiler in a sugar mill. A comprehensive characterization of the different SCBA materials was conducted, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM)-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), laser diffraction particle size analysis, Chapelle's test, strength activity index (SAI), loss on ignition (LOI), and moisture content. Experimental results showed that all LP-T and FP-T SCBAs met ASTM C618 chemical requirements and SAI requirements for Class N pozzolans. By contrast, MP SCBA did not meet these requirements, thus resulting in unsuitable SCM application. LP calcinated at 650 °C and FP calcinated at 450 °C exhibited the greatest SAI and SiO2 + Al2O3 + Fe2O3 among LP-T and FP-T SCBAs, respectively. Based on a combination of properties and production practicality considerations, FP calcinated at 450 °C was identified as the most promising SCM-grade SCBA for large-scale production in Louisiana, and was used to further evaluate the fresh and hardened properties of concrete incorporating SCBA at 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% cement replacement by mass. A decrease in workability as well as 28- and 90-day compressive strength with the increase in SCBA content was observed. However, the relative strength gain from 28 to 90 days and the 90-day surface resistivity increased with increments in SCBA dosage. Characterization of cement-SCBA paste through XRD and SEM revealed portlandite consumption and densification of the cementitious matrix from 28 to 90 days, thus suggesting the pozzolanic activity of SCBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the potential utilisation of the agro-waste pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) as a green reinforcement in polypropylene (PP) composites. Generally, chemical treatment is used to clean the scratched PALF, and the effluents of those chemicals are discharged into nature. A new mechanical approach (carding) was used in this work to remove the remaining extraneous substances from the scratched and sun-dried PALF instead of using any chemical treatment. The percentage of sticky fibres and dust content decreased, and fibre breakage increased with the increasing number of carding passages. The individualized fibre properties were also influenced by the number of carding passages. The carding process reduced the diameter of PALF due to removal of extraneous materials. The tensile properties of raw PALF improved significantly until the fourth carding passage and further increase in the number of passages did not show any significant influence on the tenacity and modulus. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the elimination of hemicellulose along with other gummy and waxy substances from the individualized PALF due to the carding action. The crystallinity % also increased after the carding process due to the removal of amorphous substances. As the reinforcement-matrix interfacial shear strength (IFSS) strongly influences the physico-mechanical properties of composites, IFSS of carded PALF reinforced finer and coarser PP fibre micro-bonded composites was also studied using the single fibre pull-out test (SFPT). Among different composites, the fourth carding passed PALF-reinforced finer PP fibre micro-bonded composite showed the highest IFSS. Additionally, the load- extension curves and SEM images of the tensile pulled-out surface were investigated to study the interfacial adhesion between PALF and PP micro-droplets. The increased surface roughness of PALF due to the carding action resulted in an improvement in the IFSS of PALF-reinforced PP micro-bonded composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical, physico‐mechanical, morphological, and thermal characteristics of alkali treated natural cellulosic sustainable eco‐friendly fiber from peduncle of Areca Catechu tree were investigated. Areca Catechu fruit peduncle fiber (ACFPF) treated with 5% (w/v) NaOH solution for 60 min is found as optimally alkali treated ACFPF (OAACFPF) witnessed an increase in cellulose content by 17%. Single fiber tensile test perceived that OAACFPF enhanced tensile strength by 12.9% and x‐ray diffraction analysis depicts crystallinity index of OAACFPF improved by 14.2% compared with ACFPF. Also, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis endorsed partial removal of amorphous contents from fibers due to alkali treatment. In addition, alkali treatment has enhanced thermal stability of OAACFPF from 226°C to 235°C verified through Thermogravimetric analysis. Likewise, Differential scanning calorimetry analysis confirmed improvement in thermal degradation temperature of OAACFPF after alkali treatment. Moreover, the rougher surface of OAACFPF confirmed through scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscopy is due to partial removal of amorphous contents thus ensuing in good interfacial bonding characteristics with the matrix during reinforcement for bio‐composite fabrication. The above findings validated OAACFPF as a worthy substitute to harmful synthetic fibers for development of eco‐friendly and sustainable bio‐composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approach to functionalize the chemical carbonization of a sugarcane pith is reported to utilize the readily available and abundant agro-waste that produces hierarchical porous activated carbon (AC) using a nitrogen activation strategy for CO2 capture and environmental remediation. The obtained raw carbon (RC) and activated carbon (AC) were characterized for their structural, functional, elemental, morphological, and surface properties. The nitrogen-containing AC production with a surface area of 725 m2g−1 and 0.3377 cm3 g−1 pore volume is achieved. The nitrogen activation strategy for AC enhanced the CO2 uptake capacity with high CO2 selectivity over N2. The isosteric heat of adsorption (Qst), 28.79 kJmol−1, suggests the strong physio-sorption interactions between CO2 and hierarchical porous AC. Furthermore, the AC adsorbent was found efficient for the fast removal of methyl orange (MO) dye with an equilibrium capacity of ~ 527 mg g−1. The obtained AC showed appreciable reusability for MO adsorption efficiency. Combining the selective CO2 uptake with the high and fast dye removal capacity, this low-cost agro-waste-derived hierarchical porous AC has excellent potential for energy and environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron and calcium are essential plant nutrient and their deficiency affects vegetative and reproductive growth of plants. Supplementing deficient nutrients by fertilizer application is essential but is accompanied by environmental pollution. Replacing conventional fertilizers with nanofertilizers may help in mitigating pollution as their nutrient use efficiency is higher. The synthesis of nanoparticles often utilizes chemicals that are detrimental to the environment. Thus use of greener alternative methods of synthesis of calcium borate nanoparticles is of special interest. In this study we synthesised nano calcium borate utilising the aqueous extract of sugarcane bagasse, a cheap, nontoxic, easily available agricultural waste, as a source of capping agent. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by powder XRD, FTIR and TEM. The calcium borate synthesized was amorphous in nature and of nanoscale. Priming cowpea seeds and misting them with synthesized calcium borate nanoparticle proved to be effective, resulting in enhanced seed germination, increased root length, and an improved vigour index compared to using bulk counterparts.

Material reinforcement has become popular in improving properties, such as corrosion, mechanical and wear behaviour. Aluminium-base composite has found usefulness in the technology of automobiles, aerospace, and marine and designs of a wide range of components. The use of reinforcement materials increases the efficiency of composites products and reduces overall expenses. Aluminium alloy composite provides low-cost advantages over many other matrix composites. The use of agro-based waste material as reinforcement alternatives is becoming very important because of its close to nothing cost and availability to produce nanoparticles. This study aim to use agro based processed rice hulls (RHA) and periwinkle shells (PSA) to improve aluminium properties in an attempt to gain prominence in today's automotive advancements. SEM imaging was conducted at a magnification of 15,000 at 20 kV to evaluate structural properties, while X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) images were utilized to observe the crystallography peaks and phases of the developed alloys. Rockwell hardness testing, in accordance with ASTM E18 standards, involved subjecting the samples to a 30 kg/f load for 30 s using a hardened steel ball for indentation. Corrosion properties were assessed via linear polarization resistance and open circuit potential measurements. From the results, there is a higher corrosion resistance from 95Al-RHA-PSA composite samples compared to the control (aluminium alloy) samples. The lower values of jcorr and higher values of Pr of the 95Al-RHA-PSA composite samples also indicated that the RHA and PSA content of the composite minimized the penetration of chloride ions into the active sites of the composite samples. The 95Al-2RHA-3PSA composite sample exhibited the lowest Cr of 1.4172 mm/year, lowest jcorr of 1.220E-04 A/cm2 and highest Pr of 70.02 Ω, which indicated the 95Al-2RHA-3PSA composite sample provided the most significant passivation, leading higher corrosion resistance. The XRD of the control sample has several crystallographic phases, with AlNi3Al2SiO8 exhibiting the most elevated peak intensity at about 550 a.u (2θ = 39°). In comparison, the peak intensity of the other crystals is less than 200 a.u. However, the 95Al-RHA-PSA composite samples exhibited crystallites of higher peak intensities and better morphological strengthening characteristics. The findings suggest promising prospects for the development of sustainable and long-lasting aluminium alloy for automotive use.

Abstract Cassava peel ash (CPA) is an abundant agricultural byproduct that has shown promise as an additional cementitious material in concrete manufacturing. This research study aims to optimize the incorporation of CPA in concrete blends using the central composite design (CCD) methodology to determine the most effective combination of ingredients for maximizing concrete performance. The investigation involves a physicochemical analysis of CPA to assess its pozzolanic characteristics. Laboratory experiments are then conducted to assess the compressive and flexural strengths of concrete mixtures formulated with varying proportions of CPA, cement, and aggregates. The results show that a mix ratio of 0.2:0.0875:0.3625:0.4625 for cement, CPA, fine, and coarse aggregates, respectively, yields a maximum compressive strength of 28.51 MPa. Additionally, a maximum flexural strength of 10.36 MPa is achieved with a mix ratio of 0.2:0.0875:0.3625:0.525. The experimental data were used to develop quadratic predictive models, followed by statistical analyses. The culmination of the research resulted in the identification of an optimal concrete blend that significantly enhances both compressive and flexural strength. To ensure the reliability of the model, rigorous validation was conducted using student’s t-test, revealing a strong correlation between laboratory findings and simulated values, with computed p-values of 0.9987 and 0.9912 for compressive and flexural strength responses, respectively. This study underscores the potential for enhancing concrete properties and reducing waste through the effective utilization of CPA in the construction sector.

In the previous years, activated carbons (ACs) derived from agro-waste have demonstrated excellent adsorption capability. Production of ACs using easy available and low cost agro-waste marks them as unique materials for several environmental applications including but not limited to CO2 capture, dyes and heavy metal ion removal by adsorption etc. This review highlights the present scenario of available agricultural land, global agricultural production and generation of enormous agro-waste worldwide with their alternative management by producing value-added and applicable ACs as an adsorbent for environmental remediation instead of burning. This review specifically aims to support researchers by providing an all-inclusive overview of different aspects of agro-waste management with a perspective in AC preparation, characterization and its environmental applications such as CO2 capture, dye and metal ion adsorption for enhancing the pathways to clean air and water.

In recent years, the efficient utilization of agro-waste to produce value-added products has gained more ground due to its inexpensive nature, abundance and solution to environmental problems. These agro-wastes are renewable resources. This study sought to explore different enzymes Aspergillus niger and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, for producing ethanol from plantain and yam peels using hydrolysis and fermentation. Hydrolysis and fermentation were performed separately to optimize the performance of the respective enzymes and fermenting microorganisms. Parameters monitored were moisture loss, the degree of hydrolysis, the amount of reducing sugar and the volume and concentration of bioethanol. Fifty grams each of the plantain and yam peels was milled into powder and thoroughly dried. The flour was mixed with 500 ml of distilled water and hydrolyzed with Aspergillus niger. The hydrolysates were fermented with Aspergillus niger, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and ethanol was extracted from the broth by distillation. The yam peels produced a higher concentration of ethanol, 31.86% w/v and plantain, 22.72% w/v after completion of the 7-day fermentation with A. niger and S. cerevisiae. Fermentation of yam and plantain with A. niger was successful, taking 7 days for biomass conversion with yields of 11.4% w/v and 9.41% w/v, respectively. There was a significant difference in p-values of 0.0089 and 0.0311 in the concentration of ethanol produced from yam and plantain peels, respectively, with the various microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four laccase-producing bacteria were found in soil samples from the Similipal Biosphere Reserve in Odisha, according to the current study. The isolates (SLCB1 to SLCB4) were evaluated for their laccase-producing ability in LB broth supplemented with guaiacol. The ABTS assay was performed to assess the laccase activity. The bacterium Mammaliicoccus sciuri shows the highest laccase activity i.e., 0.5125 U/L at the optimized conditions of pH 5.5, temperature 32.5 °C, ABTS concentration of 0.75 μl with an incubation time of 9 d. Laccase activity of M. sciuri grown in Sawdust was significantly increased in comparison to that in other agro wastes. The partially purified laccase enzyme after ammonium sulfate precipitation and dialysis showed a molecular weight of ∼58.5 kDa as determined by SDS-PAGE. A decolorization efficiency of 66.67% was recorded for the dye crystal violet after 1 h treatment with dialyzed laccase enzyme compared with phenol red, brilliant blue, and methylene blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava peel ash (CPA) is an abundant agricultural byproduct that has shown promise as an additional cementitious material in concrete manufacturing. This research study aims to optimize the incorporation of CPA in concrete blends using the central composite design (CCD) methodology to determine the most effective combination of ingredients for maximizing concrete performance. The investigation involves a physicochemical analysis of CPA to assess its pozzolanic characteristics. Laboratory experiments are then conducted to assess the compressive and flexural strengths of concrete mixtures formulated with varying proportions of CPA, cement, and aggregates. The results show that a mix ratio of 0.2:0.0875:0.3625:0.4625 for cement, CPA, fine, and coarse aggregates, respectively, yields a maximum compressive strength of 28.51 MPa. Additionally, a maximum flexural strength of 10.36 MPa is achieved with a mix ratio of 0.2:0.0875:0.3625:0.525. The experimental data were used to develop quadratic predictive models, followed by statistical analyses. The culmination of the research resulted in the identification of an optimal concrete blend that significantly enhances both compressive and flexural strength. To ensure the reliability of the model, rigorous validation was conducted using student's t-test, revealing a strong correlation between laboratory findings and simulated values, with computed p-values of 0.9987 and 0.9912 for compressive and flexural strength responses, respectively. This study underscores the potential for enhancing concrete properties and reducing waste through the effective utilization of CPA in the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research investigated the conversion of banana stem waste into cellulose nitrate, a potential bioplastic precursor. The research is of prime importance in terms of environmental pollution and sustainable development goals. The study aimed to isolate cellulose from banana stems, synthesize nitrocellulose, and assess its stability. Two different methods, that is, Method A, comprising HNO3 and H2 SO4 , and Method B, comprising HNO3 and P2 O5 , were applied to synthesize nitrocellulose, each using different acidic mixtures. Method A resulted in high nitrocellulose yield and higher nitrogen content but lower cellulose content. On the other hand, method B yielded nitrocellulose with a lower nitrogen content but higher cellulose content. It was found that composition of nitrating acid mixture, nitrating time, and ratio of nitrating acid–cellulose material influenced the yield and solubility of nitrocellulose. The highest yield of nitrocellulose was obtained using a 60:1 ratio of nitrating acid–cellulose material in method A and a 100:1 ratio of the same in method B after 90-min nitration time. It was also observed that nitrocellulose A was soluble in acetone and pyridine whereas nitrocellulose B was soluble in 1,4-dioxane, esters, and pyridine. Overall, the study demonstrated the feasibility of converting banana stem waste into a bioplastic precursor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing scarcity of virgin natural resources and the need for sustainable waste management in densely populated urban areas have heightened the importance of developing new recycling technologies. One promising approach involves recycling agricultural waste in construction applications and transforming it into secondary products. This is anticipated to reduce the demand for new resources and lower the environmental impact, aligning with industrial ecology principles. Combined with a low carbon emission binder (i.e., alkali-activated), utilizing agro-waste to produce zero-cement particle boards is a promising method for green construction. Traditionally, particle boards are engineered from wood or agricultural waste products that are pressed and bonded with a binder, such as cement or synthetic resins. However, alternative binders replace cement in zero-cement particle boards to address environmental concerns, such as the carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production. This study investigated the effects of accelerated aging on the performance of alkali-activated agro-waste particle boards. Accelerated aging conditions simulate natural aging phenomena. Repeated wetting–drying and freezing–thawing cycles increased water absorption and thickness swelling and reduced flexural strength. The thermal performance of the alkali-activated particle boards did not exhibit significant changes. Hence, it was confirmed that agro-waste has a high potential for utilization in producing particle boards provided that the working environment is carefully selected to optimize performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]