Volume 14, Issue 1

This study optimizes the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using seed skin extract of guarana ( Paullinia cupana ) as a natural stabilizing and reducing agent. Employing a Taguchi design, nine experiments were conducted across three levels for four key factors: reaction temperature, pH, silver nitrate concentration, and guarana seed skin extract concentration to minimize AgNP size. Optimal conditions – pH 11, 5 mM silver nitrate, 50°C reaction temperature, and 1% (m/v) guarana extract – produced quasi-spherical AgNPs with an average size of ∼26 nm. Chemical analysis revealed caffeine as the main organic compound and potassium oxide as the primary inorganic component. UV-vis spectra showed an absorption peak at 438 nm, and X-ray diffraction confirmed typical AgNP peaks. Further analysis identified polyphenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids as reducing and stabilizing agents. A high AgNP concentration (180.0 ± 0.2 ppm) was confirmed through ICP-OES, and AgNPs demonstrated a significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus , with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 50 μg·mL −1 . This study underscores the sustainability of green synthesis as a promising alternative to traditional nanoparticle production methods.

Potentially toxic elements like Cr +6 and Ni +2 cause severe health hazards. Therefore, the current work was aimed at cleaning water using Prosopis glandulosa raw sawdust (SD) and its derived biochar (AC). Both the adsorbents were characterized via SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, EDX, and TGA and were applied for the effective removal of Ni( ii ) and Cr( vi ) at optimum values of experimental conditions, and the mechanism was assessed via adsorption isotherm and kinetic models. The correlation coefficient R 2 confirmed pseudo-second-order kinetics and preferred Freundlich isotherm model. Maximum removal of Cr( iv ) was obtained at a pH of 4.0, a bio-sorbent concentration of 0.8 g·L −1 , and a temperature of 50°C for 50 min with a metal concentration of 110 ppm, while maximum removal of Ni( ii ) was obtained for a contact time of 70 min with a metal concentration of 130 ppm in the above-mentioned experimental conditions. The results of the isotherms and kinetic model revealed that metal adsorption processes involved multilayer formation on the biosorbent’s heterogeneous surface. Also, their thermodynamic investigation showed that the adsorption process is spontaneous and exothermic and, therefore, can be effectively utilized to remove Cr and Ni from water.

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) were biosynthesized from methanolic stem extract of Andrographis paniculata (MEAP) and characterized physicochemically. ZnO-NPs were evaluated biologically for anti-diabetic and anti-nephropathy activities. A diabetic rat model generated by streptozotocin was used to test the anti-diabetic properties of ZnO-NPs. In diabetic rats, oral doses of MEAP and ZnO-NPs generated from MEAP were given once daily for 30 days at 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, and 1,200 mg·kg −1 , respectively. Metformin, a common antidiabetic drug, was utilized as a control at a dosage of 250 mg·kg −1 . The NPs mediated by MEAP were homogenous, stable, spherical, and tiny. MEAP-derived ZnO-NPs prevented weight loss while significantly ( p < 0.05) lowering blood glucose levels in comparison to MEAP and, to a lesser extent, metformin. Furthermore, MEAP-mediated ZnO-NPs were found to have favorable effects on the lipid profile and diabetic nephropathy. The histopathological evaluation demonstrated the safety, non-toxicity, and biocompatibility of synthesized ZnO-NPs produced from MEAP. The hypoglycemic response to MEAP-derived ZnO-NPs was greater at 400 mg·kg −1 ·day −1 than it was at 200 and 100 mg·kg −1 ·day −1 . Therefore, ZnO-NPs biosynthesized from MEAP exhibit more anti-diabetic and anti-nephropathy action than MEAP in this first experimental setting reported. Graphical abstract

Despite the growing trend of using ethanol as a greener alternative to hazardous solvents like methanol and acetonitrile in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, no ethanol-based assay has been developed for aspirin tablets, nor has the potential of domestically produced bioethanol as a mobile phase been explored – until now. This study introduces a novel ethanol-based HPLC assay for aspirin and assesses the feasibility of using locally produced bioethanol. The optimized method, featuring a 40% (v/v) ethanol–water mobile phase adjusted to pH 3.6 with glacial acetic acid, with a 15-cm C18 column at 40°C and UV detection at 237 nm, successfully separated aspirin and its degradation product, salicylic acid, in 5 min. It demonstrated excellent linearity (0.1–0.6 mg·mL −1 , r ² = 0.9997), sensitivity (LOD = 0.01 mg·mL −1 , LOQ = 0.03 mg·mL −1 ), accuracy, and precision, with no interference from excipients. The method’s performance on commercial aspirin tablets aligned with official pharmacopoeial methods. In a case study using fuel-grade bioethanol (>99.5% purity) derived from sugarcane molasses or cassava from local manufacturers in Thailand, chromatographic and analytical results matched those obtained with imported ethanol, validating its effectiveness. This innovative approach not only reduces costs and dependence on imported solvents but also supports local bio-circular-green economies and promotes greener, more sustainable analytical practices. Graphical abstract

The extensive application of polystyrene (PS) in the industry and the release of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in the environmental compartments has raised global concerns. The ability of microbes to utilize PS as a carbon source has been currently established. This study utilized Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 11774) to break down environmentally relevant sized PS-MPs (5 µm) with and without abiotic (thermal and UV radiations) pretreatment for a period of 4 weeks. The biodegradation rate was validated using UV–visible (UV–Vis) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy coupled with EDX analysis. After 4 weeks, all inoculated PS-MP samples with and without pretreatment showed marked changes in the UV–vis spectra in comparison to the pristine PS-MPs. Additionally, FTIR spectra displayed surface modifications of functional groups in all inoculated samples linked to chain scission/oxidation were highlighted by a notable increase in the carbonyl index during biodegradation. SEM micrographs confirmed the marked fragility of the particles, and a probable oxidation degree was evaluated as an atomic O/C ratio that corroborates the biodegradative potential of B. subtilis . The core finding underscores that B. subtilis can grow on, alter, and use PS as a carbon source, either with or without abiotic pretreatment, emphasizing the role of biological pathways as a sustainable strategy for plastic waste management.

The fly ash (FA) is one of the large amount of solid wastes stored in China. Because of its low price, large specific surface area, and surface electronegativity, reasonable modification can turn FA into treasure, prepared as an adsorption material with good adsorption performance. In this article, the industrial solid waste FA is used as raw material, and the FA-based sodium aluminosilicate was synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal alkali dissolution method and characterized by X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, Brunauer Emmett Teller, and other test methods. The results show that (1) aluminum silicate sodium hydrate can be synthesized by low-temperature method under atmospheric pressure to form P-type zeolite and calcite structure. (2) Alkali concentration, temperature, and reaction time affect the structure of aluminosilicate sodium hydrate. With the increase of alkali concentration, temperature, and reaction time, the product changes from P-type zeolite to calite structure. (3) The optimal synthesis condition of FA for sodium aluminosilicate hydrate is as follows: the concentration of NaOH solution is 4 mol·L −1 , the dissolution temperature is 80°C, the reaction time is 21 h, and the specific surface area is 60.54 m 2 ·g −1 .

This study investigates the potential of zinc oxide (ZnO) and nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles (NPs), biosynthesized from camel milk, to combat bacterial resistance and enhance heavy metal removal from water. The antimicrobial efficacy against various pathogens, including Bacillus subtilis , Staphylococcus aureus , Escherichia coli , Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Candida tropicalis were studied. Characterization of the NPs was conducted using UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope, and atomic force microscopy techniques. Results showed that ZnO NPs exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity, with an inhibition zone of 16 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 13 mm against Candida tropicalis , while NiO NPs displayed reduced activity against all selected microorganisms. Additionally, ZnO NPs demonstrated an impressive Cu( ii ) ion removal rate of 96.76% at pH 8.4, with a contact time of 90 min, using 0.5 g·L −1 of adsorbent at an initial concentration of 200 mg·L −1 . Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model, with isotherm data fitting the Langmuir model ( Q max = 100.0 mg·g −1 , R 2 = 0.9905). Thermodynamic analysis indicated an exothermic process (∆ H ° = −4,127.4 J·mol −1 ) and spontaneous physical adsorption. Future research should focus on scaling up the biosynthesis of ZnO NPs for practical antimicrobial therapies and wastewater treatment technologies, alongside exploring their long-term environmental impact.

Cr/Co-MOFs were synthesized via a solvothermal method using chromium acetate and cobalt chloride hexahydrate as metal ions, and trimeric acid as the organic ligand. The structures of Cr/Co-MOFs were characterized using Fourier infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy techniques. These Cr/Co-MOFs were used for removing organic contaminants in wastewater treatment. Fleroxacin and Rhodamine B (RhB) were specifically selected as target molecules in this study to evaluate the removal efficiency based on the mass of Co/Cr-MOFs, concentrations of organic contaminants, and adsorption time. Experimental findings indicated that at a Co/Cr-MOFs dosage of 100 mg, with initial concentrations of Fleroxacin (30 ppm) and RhB (20 ppm), removal efficiencies achieved were 95% and 99%, respectively. Within a timeframe of 5 h, Co/Cr-MOFs attained adsorption capacities amounting to 269.6 mg·g −1 for fleroxacin and 289.5 mg·g −1 for RhB. The interaction between Co/Cr-MOFs and fleroxacin, as well as RhB, is primarily attributed to factors such as pore size, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic charge, and π–π interactions. Moreover, theoretical analysis corroborated these experimental results by demonstrating conformity between the adsorption process and both second-order kinetic model equations alongside Langmuir isotherm model equations. Collectively, the experimental data combined with theoretical investigations underscore the practical significance associated with employing Co/Cr-MOFs for effective eradication of organic pollutants.

Carbon materials is a commonly used electrode material because of its low cost, good conductivity, and structure that allows lithium ions to intercalate between layers in the carbon network. In this article, carbon nanomaterials (CP) have been successfully manufactured from Vietnamese coal. CP is a two-dimensional, leaf-shaped nanomaterial with a specific surface area of 16.7799 m 2 ·g −1 . In the symmetric supercapacitor system, the CP electrode has a high specific capacitance rate of 275 F·g −1 with a current density of 0.1 A·g −1 , an energy density of 6.4 W h·kg −1  g −1 , and outstanding cyclic stability with capacitance retention of 83.1% after 1,000 cyclic voltammetry curves in 6 M potassium hydroxide electrolyte solution. When using the CP electrode as the anode in a lithium-ion battery (LIB) with a solution of lithium hexafluorophosphate, dimethyl carbonate, ethylene carbonate, and diethyl carbonate at 1:1:1 (v/v/v) ratio and concentration of 1.0 M. LIB has a specific capacity of 336.0 mA h·g −1 at C /10 and 425.5 mA h·g −1 at C/20 ( C = 372 mA h·g −1 ). When discharged, the CP electrode operates stably and can integrate Li ions well. Therefore, excellent electrochemical performance verifies the potential of nanocarbon materials production from coal on a large scale for high-performance anode in LIBs.

The electrochemical synthesis of copper, iron, and their alloys on brass foil plates, using varying concentrations of CuCl 2 and FeCl 3 solutions, was conducted. Characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and cyclic voltammetry were employed to analyze the structures, morphologies, and electrochemical activities of the deposits. Upon combustion, an alloy oxide with a chemical composition of (30Cu–2.5Fe–35Zn–32.5O), comprising major phases of CuFeO 2 and CuFe 2 O 4 , along with minor materials, such as Cu–Fe, CuO, ZnO, and Fe 2 O 3 , was prepared. Prior to combustion, two distinct alloys, denoted Alloy( i ) and Alloy( ii ), with varying compositions and phases, were deposited. Alloy( i ), deposited from a solution of higher CuCl 2 and lower FeCl 3 concentrations, exhibited a composition of 80Cu–2Fe–16Zn–2O, while Alloy( ii ), deposited from a solution with higher FeCl 3 concentration, had a composition of 60Cu–0.25Fe–36.75Cu–3O. The alloys’ purity was confirmed using energy-dispersive X-ray techniques, with surface morphology varying based on the concentration of FeCl 3 . Alloy( i ) showed a high rate of hydrogen production in alkaline solution, with a current density of 708 mA·cm −2 at a potential of 2.04 V. Additionally, the alloy oxide, utilized as a photoelectrode material, demonstrated current densities of 2.54 mA·cm −2 in the dark and 33 mA·cm −2 under light conditions when tested under a solar simulator with an intensity of 400 mW·cm −2 .

Achieving circularity for post-consumer polymers requires to address and overcome significant challenges and limitations such as the efficient removal of additives, colourants, contamination from usage and undesired chain scission. A very effective approach is offered by back-to-monomer recycling processes that break up the polymer matrix, release contaminants and yield virgin-like monomers as starting material for polymer production. This study used post-consumer and post-production polyethylene terephthalate (PET) which were depolymerized by revolPET ® technology. As a reaction intermediate disodium terephthalate is obtained, from which the monomer terephthalic acid (TA) can be recovered through acidic precipitation. In this present study, precipitation with acetic acid and sulfuric acid is assessed regarding the impact on recycled terephthalic acid properties and the purification potential at temperatures up to 90°C. Precipitation at elevated temperatures reduces the yellow discolouration of TA, with acetic acid being more effective. With regard to isophthalic acid (IA), a common co-monomer in PET manufacturing, an increase in temperature could reduce the IA content in TA to 90% of the original content using sulfuric acid. Precipitation with acetic acid reduced IA content to less than 20%. The results of this study deliver a novel approach to integrate the purification into the TA formation step.

In this work, extracts from okra fruit are used to create zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in an economical and environmentally friendly manner. During the synthesis process, okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus ) extracts served as stabilizing and reducing agents. Various analytical methods were used to describe the final nanoparticles. The outcomes showed that the produced ZnO NPs primarily exhibited hexagonal shapes, with sizes ranging from 20 to 27 nm in diameter. The cytotoxicity study, conducted on human fibroblast normal HFB4 cell lines, indicated that the IC 50 dose was 227.8 μg·mL −1 . The IC 50 dose of 119.7 μg·mL −1 was found in antitumor effect studies using breast adenocarcinoma Mcf-7 cell lines, revealing a good level of safety for ZnO NPs. Compared to Gram-negative infections, the ZnO NPs were found to have a significantly higher anti-bacterial impact against Gram-positive pathogens. Molecular docking against DNA gyrase A subunit of Bacillus subtilis (PDB ID: 4DDQ) illustrated that the ZnO NPs were interlocked with the active site of 4DDQ by a fitting energy value of −50.91 kcal·mol −1 through three classical hydrogen bonds with Asp96, Thr220, and Ala221. The last one is also generated by the marketing tromethamine drug (TRS), adding some TRS-like character to the ZnO NP inhibitor.

Teucrium polium is a perennial herbaceous plant with a long history of medicinal use in numerous cultures. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using T. polium leaf extract were synthesized and characterized as well as their use in antibacterial and anticancer activities. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy analysis coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray, transmitted electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis validated the effective synthesis. TEM revealed the synthesis of spherical AgNPs ranging in size from 41 to 61 nm. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry investigation of T. polium leaf extract revealed 10 bioactive components from distinct chemical classes. A test called cytotoxicity showed that AgNPs were toxic to MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines with the IC 50 values = 15 ± 3.18 μg·mL −1 for MCF-7 and 12 ± 2.63 μg·mL −1 for HepG2. It showed high antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (minimum inhibitory concentration values ranged from 5.85 ± 2.76 to 31.25 ± 0.00 μg·mL −1 ). The findings hold promise for developing eco-friendly antibacterial and anticancer agents with enhanced biocompatibility, fostering advancements in both nanotechnology and biomedical sciences, and giving useful insights for future research and development in natural product-based treatments and green nanotechnology.

Global plastic waste production reaches approximately 400 million metric tons annually. Chemical plastics cause global pollution and take hundreds of years to degrade. Bioplastics are a promising alternative to traditional plastics made from renewable resources, such as plants and algae, and are biodegradable. The present study aims to synthesize eco-friendly bioplastics using green Chlorella and red Lithothamnion algae in addition to glycerol and starch as plasticizers. Moreover, the biosynthesized plastics were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In addition, we have checked their biodegradability on the soil surface and in drinking water. The results report the successful synthesis of bioplastics using green Chlorella and red Lithothamnion algae due to texture, flexibility, and shape. SEM images show an irregular surface due to ridges and grooves in the microstructure of the bioplastic films. EDX analysis shows large carbon and oxygen contents due to starch in bioplastic films. FTIR reports peaks were attributed to the –CO, –OH, and –CH groups. Biodegradability was proven as the bioplastic film lost nearly 70% of its biomass on the soil surface (at day 35) and sank in water (at day 34) tests. The present study describes an eco-friendly novel method mostly based on using algae, thereby providing a sustainable blend for the manufacturing of bioplastics for use in several applications, including food package and agriculture, as it is biodegradable.

This study explores strategies to enhance coal utilization efficiency, enable on-site coal conversion, transition thermal coal into raw coal, and improve the energy efficiency of coal water slurry (CWS) gasification. By optimizing coal blending and particle size distribution, CWS concentration can be significantly increased. The results demonstrate that, under the constraints of liquid slag discharge technology, a maximum blending ratio of 10% high-rank Panji coal (CP coal) achieves a slurry concentration of 60.5%. This process elevates the coal ash flow temperature by 90°C and narrows the gasification operating range by 44°C, attributed to a notable increase in the relative content of CaAl 2 Si 2 O 8 . Further improvements are achieved by blending finely ground CP coal (CP*) with low-rank Shenhua coal (SH coal) at a 9:1 ratio and increasing CWS additive concentration to 3.0‰, resulting in a slurry concentration of 63.5%. A comprehensive technical and economic evaluation identifies the optimal configuration as incorporating 10% CP* and 0.2% CWS additives into SH coal. Compared to the SH CWS gasification process, Scheme D enhances the effective gas composition and flow rate, reduces costs by 4.19%, and significantly lowers CO 2 emissions. The proposed approach offers substantial economic and environmental benefits, supporting the development of clean coal technology.

In this study, Ag@Cu alloy nanoparticles and silver nanowires (AgNWs) were synthesized by a green method using the Pterospermum heterophyllum extract. To study the influence of the precursor ratio on the synthesis of Ag@Cu, the molar ratio of Ag Cu was changed to 10:7, 10:6, 10:5, and 10:4. To study the influence of the precursor concentration on the formation of AgNWs, the AgNO 3 concentration was varied with values such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 mM. The results showed that spherical Ag@Cu were formed uniformly when the Ag:Cu molar ratio was high. The branched structures appeared when the Ag:Cu molar ratio was 10:6 and 10:7. The formation of AgNWs strongly depended on the precursor concentration, similar to the polyol method. 5 mM of AgNO 3 was the most suitable concentration for the synthesis of AgNWs. Ag@Cu and AgNWs have been studied for surface-enhanced Raman scattering effects on MB dye. The results showed that both types of particles could enhance Raman scattering with enhancement factors up to 10 8 and 10 9 . This proved that the green method synthesized Ag@Cu and AgNWs for products with equivalent applications to the chemical methods. Graphical abstract

The green synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using natural extracts offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods. In this study, we synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) using propolis extract as a natural reducing agent, resulting in two variants: CuO A and CuO B (calcined). UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed successful synthesis, revealing distinct optical properties influenced by thermal treatment. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was performed to identify bioactive compounds stabilizing the NPs, with Cu–O stretching bands at 603 cm⁻¹ for CuO A and at 633.6, 596.4, and 484.6 cm⁻¹ for CuO B. X-ray diffraction determined crystallite sizes of 68.5 nm (CuO A) and 74.82 nm (CuO B). Scanning electron microscopy showed spherical shapes for CuO A and star-shaped forms for CuO B. Biological assays revealed superior antioxidant activity for CuO A (IC 50 = 0.027, AEAC = 2.01) compared to CuO B (IC 50 = 0.052, AEAC = 1.76). CuO A also demonstrated higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC = 11.28 mg EAA/g NPs) and antimicrobial efficacy, with lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC = 5–10 mg·mL −1 ) than CuO B (MIC = 20–80 mg·mL −1 ). Its enhanced glucose absorption capacity highlights its potential antidiabetic applications. These findings underscore the superior biological properties of CuO A, demonstrating its promising biomedical potential.

In this study, a green reversed-phase “high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)” technique is established and verified for the detection of mefenamic acid (MEF) and paracetamol (PCM) simultaneously in their fixed-dose combination tablets. MEF and PCM were measured simultaneously using a green developing system consisting of ethanol, water, and glacial acetic acid in a 75:23:2 (v/v/v) ternary ratio. Both MEF and PCM were concurrently identified at a wavelength of 235 nm. Three distinct greenness methodologies – analytical eco-scale (AES), chloroform toxicity (ChlorTox), and analytical GREEnness (AGREE) – were used to assess the method’s greenness profile. For both medications, the devised technique was linear in the 25–800 ng·band −1 range. After validation, the devised approach was found to be accurate, precise, sensitive, robust, and environmentally friendly. Each of the greenness tools’ results, including those from AGREE (0.82), ChlorTox (0.82 g), and AES (91), showed that the current approach had a noticeably greener profile. Using the current method, it was determined that the MEF and PCM levels in commercial fixed-dose combination tablet brands A and B were within the 100 ± 2% limit. The results of investigation showed that MEF and PCM in commercial combination tablets could be reliably analyzed using the recommended method. Graphical Abstract

Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using titanium isopropoxide as a substrate and green tea extract as a reducing agent in the synthesis process. The structural characteristics of TiO 2 were analyzed using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction analysis, and N 2 adsorption/desorption isotherm. TiO 2 nanoparticles with a crystal size of 21.04 nm were calculated using the Debye–Scherer equation, indicating a dominant anatase structure. The synthesized TiO 2 nanomaterial exhibited a spherical shape and formed aggregates, with a surface area of 18.33 m 2 ·g −1 . Additionally, the antibacterial activity of TiO 2 nanoparticles was evaluated using the disk diffusion method, and the minimum inhibitory concentration against gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli was found to be 7.5 and 11.25 mg·mL −1 , respectively. In addition, the photocatalytic degradation of TiO 2 activates and generates free radicals such as ˙OH and ˙ O 2 − \textdotaccent {\text{O}}_{2}^{-} , which have strong oxidizing abilities. These radicals break down the molecular structure and remove approximately 76% of tetracycline antibiotics. Incorporating TiO 2 in facial wash formulations significantly enhances the sun protection factor. Green synthesis of TiO 2 nanoparticles using Camellia sinensis extract is not only suitable for sustainable activities but also becomes a versatile material with great application potential in fields such as cosmetics, medicine, and environmental remediation. Graphical abstract

In this study, Borago officinalis flower extract was performed for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Zinc Oxide (ZnONPs). The plant extract played essential roles as a stabilising and reducing agent. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the pharmaceutical applications for green fabricated ZnO NPs and Ag NPs such as antibacterial, antibiofilm properties, antioxidant, and anticancer activity. The resulting nanoparticles were characterised using ultraviolet (UV)–visible, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses. The findings revealed the formation of spherical Ag NPs (33–41 nm) and ZnO NPs (59–80 nm) with the cubic structure of Ag NPs and the hexagonal structure of ZnO NPs. The antibacterial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli using the agar well diffusion method. The antibiofilm potential was evaluated using a crystal violet assay, revealing that ZnO NPs demonstrated slightly superior antibiofilm activity compared to Ag NPs, particularly against K. pneumoniae . The enhanced antibacterial and antibiofilm activities are attributed to the nanoparticles, ability to generate reactive oxygen species and their improved physical interactions with bacterial cells. The cytotoxic effects of prepared NPs against colon cancer cells HT-29 were investigated. The cytotoxicity assay confirmed that the prepared NPs were selectively toxic in cancer cells. Our results showed that the prepared NPs had antioxidant activity when using the DPPH assay. The results improved the potential properties of green synthesised Ag NPs and ZnO NPs as effective antimicrobial agents and prevent biofilm-formation-associated infections. Taken together, the results highlighted the viability of utilising B. officinalis in the eco-friendly biosynthesis of nanoparticles for the application of biomedical.

Gemcitabine (GC)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized by ionic gelation method, and optimization was accomplished by Box–Behnken design based on particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and percent entrapment efficiency (% EE). The optimized formulation (OF) exhibited PS, PDI, ZP, and % EE to be 206.7 nm, 0.285, +27 mV, and 77.61%, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry analyses confirmed GC’s stability in nanoparticles. The OF showed an initial rapid release of 61%, followed by a slower release, reaching 95.81% over 96 h. OF was studied on a PC-3 cell line to evaluate its effectiveness in treating prostate cancer, where it exhibited higher cytotoxicity (IC 50 ∼3.06 ± 0.32 μg/ml) compared to pure GC (IC 50 ∼4.11 ± 0.81 μg/ml). After oral administration in albino rabbits, the peak plasma concentrations ( C max ) for GC solution and OF were 1,290 and 3,070 ng/ml, respectively. The time to reach maximum plasma concentration ( t max ) was 1 h for GC solution and 6 h for OF. The half-life ( t 1/2 ) was 5.6 h for GC solution and 16.9 h for OF, indicating a prolonged half-life for OF. OF demonstrated an effective release pattern of GC, improved stability, enhanced pharmacokinetic profile, and higher toxicity compared to GC. Graphical abstract Gemcitabine (GC)-loaded chitosan (CS) nanoparticles were synthesized using the ionic gelation method. CS solution was prepared in glacial acetic solution 1% v/v under magnetic stirring for 2 h at 60˚C. The pH of resulting CS solutions was adjusted to 5 ± 0.03 with sodium hydroxide aqueous solution 20% w/v and then filtered. Sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) solution was prepared in double distilled water and filtered. For the preparation of nanoparticles, the required amount of GC was first dissolved in the desired concentration of TPP, which was then added dropwise to a specific CS solution at room temperature with uninterrupted magnetic stirring. The volume ratio of CS to TPP was 5:2 in all cases. The nanoparticle suspension obtained was kept under gentle stirring for 1 h and then centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 30 min. The obtained nanoparticles were re-dispersed in double distilled water, trehalose dihydrate 5% (w/v), as a cryoprotectant was added, frozen at −30°C for 12 h, and finally lyophilized at −50°C for 24 h. The prepared nanoformulation (OF) was subjected to various physiochemical evaluations, including in vitro characterization like dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, drug release, cytotoxicity and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies.

Synthetic dyes in wastewater present a challenging problem that requires special attention due to the high environmental risks, and magnetic adsorbents appear as promising alternatives to solve it. Magnetic activated carbons (MAC) were prepared by comparing single- and multi-step methods. Palm kernel shells were used as precursors, activated with ZnCl 2 , and then magnetized by adding a solution containing Fe 3+ ions (FeCl 3 ). Iron compound inclusion aims to enhance the effectiveness of activated carbon as an adsorbent for liquid waste. Fourier transform infra-red characterization showed that the functional groups detected on the activated carbon and MAC were O–H, C═O, C═C, C≡N, and C–O. The effect of preparation methods and dye concentration (10–30 mg·L −1 ) on adsorption and kinetics were investigated. Characterization showed that MAC prepared through multi-step pyrolysis (M-MAC) has larger pores, achieving an adsorption capacity of up to 6.953 mg·g −1 with a 28% dye removal efficiency, making it superior in adsorption performance. Furthermore, the adsorption data fitted well with the Redlich–Peterson isotherm model with R 2 = 0.9788 for M-MAC, while the adsorption kinetics agreed well with both the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models. Moreover, NaOH successfully recovered MAC with desorption efficiencies of up to 98.34%.

The increasing accumulation of agricultural waste poses a significant environmental challenge, highlighting the need for sustainable waste valorization strategies. This study presents a green synthesis approach for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using walnut septum waste, an underutilized bioactive-rich by-product. Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry confirmed AgNP formation with a characteristic surface plasmon resonance band at 407 nm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy revealed spherical, crystalline AgNPs (26–27 nm) with stability over 3 months. The antibacterial efficacy of these AgNPs was assessed against Gram-positive ( Bacillus subtilis , Staphylococcus aureus ) and Gram-negative ( Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa ) bacteria using the broth microdilution method. The AgNPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 31.25 to 62.5 µg·mL −1 , demonstrating superior effectiveness compared to the unprocessed walnut septum extract. These findings highlight the dual benefits of repurposing agricultural waste for nanomaterial synthesis while offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemically synthesized nanoparticles. The results support the potential biomedical and environmental applications of AgNPs in antimicrobial coatings, wound dressings, food preservation, and water purification. This study provides a sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable method for AgNPs production, contributing to green nanotechnology and solid waste management. Graphical abstract

Rare-earth diatomic catalysts (DACs) not only encompass the advantages characteristic of single-atom catalysts (SACs), but also exhibit the capability to surpass the catalytic activity achieved by single-metal SACs. Nevertheless, DACs are predominantly engineered using transition elements, with limited exploration focusing on rare-earth elements. Herein, we report a Ni–Y diatomic porous carbon electrocatalyst synthesized using an organic ligand strategy, which exhibits excellent catalytic performance in electrochemical CO 2 reduction reaction with high selectivity for CO. Operating at a modest potential of −0.93 V compared to the reversible hydrogen electrode, the Ni–Y DAC, enhanced by the presence of rare-earth element Y, achieves a remarkable Faraday efficiency of 89% and attains an impressive current density of 12 mA·cm −2 . The incorporation of rare-earth element Y facilitates the modulation of electron density pertaining to the Ni constituent, thereby refining the Ni configuration within the porous carbon substrate and eliciting an augmentation in the electrocatalytic efficacy of the material. Graphical abstract

This study investigates the environmentally friendly synthesis of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles using basil leaf extract as a sustainable precursor. The resulting basil–Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were extensively characterized through Fourier-Transform infrared, UV–Vis, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and VSM to verify their structural, morphological, and magnetic properties. Optical analysis showed a prominent absorption peak at 263 nm and a band gap energy of 3.87 eV, suggesting its potential for photocatalytic applications. The catalytic performance of basil–Fe 3 O 4 was tested in the synthesis of 2-benzylidene malononitrile derivatives under microwave irradiation, achieving up to 98% purity in crystalline form across 12 examples involving aromatic and heteroaromatic aldehydes with malononitrile. The catalyst exhibited excellent reusability with minimal loss of activity over several cycles, highlighting its potential for greener and more sustainable chemical processes. Additionally, the photocatalytic performance of basil–Fe₃O₄ was evaluated for the degradation of Congo red dye, achieving an impressive 97% degradation efficiency under UV irradiation. Kinetic analysis indicated a high regression coefficient and a significant reaction rate constant, confirming its superior activity. The limit of detection and limit of quantification were determined to be 32.8 and 99.16 mg·L −1 , respectively, affirming the method’s sensitivity and reliability for detecting Congo red dye. Remarkably, even a small amount (5%) of the catalyst enabled efficient degradation under low UV exposure, showcasing its potential for large-scale wastewater treatment. The dual functionality of basil–Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles in both organic synthesis and environmental remediation highlights its promise for sustainable advancements in green chemistry and wastewater treatment applications. Graphical abstract

Giant reed ( Arundo donax ), a plant species with potential for obtaining lignocellulosic fibres, was validated as reinforcement in thermoplastic composites with good processability, thermo-mechanical performance, and aesthetics. This study evaluates the impact of closed-loop recycling of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-based composites with up to 40% of reed fillers: fibres and shredded plants, on their processing and application properties. Arundo fillers do not significantly impact the processing stability and performance of recycled composites and can improve some aspects. Minor chemical composition differences were observed, highlighting oxidation resistance. All formulations keep their viscous character and reduce the melt flow index slightly, benefiting reprocessing due to the absence of degradation-prone coupling agents. The composites remain thermally stable up to 230°C, with only slight weight loss at 160°C due to lignocellulosic filler degradation. Fillers lead to longer oxidation induction time compared to neat HDPE. Reprocessed moulded materials show higher stiffness and improved ultimate tensile and flexural strength, but lower impact resistance due to shorter filler length. Smaller fillers and improved matrix distribution also reduce water uptake. Fibrous fillers reduce the aspect ratio, making composites with shredded reed more similar to reed fibres, which are costlier to produce. Shortening of the reprocessed fibrous filler is associated with increased crystallinity in composite materials.

This study aimed to prepare chitosan/PVA nanofibers loaded with cefadroxil and curcumin (CPCCNFs) by electrospinning. According to FTIR spectra, there was no interaction between drugs and polymers. X-ray diffractograms showed the amorphous nature of cefadroxil and curcumin in its nanofiber form. According to thermogravimetric analysis results, CPCCNFs remained thermally stable up to 423°C. CPCCNFs exhibited an initial swelling ratio of 80.76% and an erosion rate of 44.2%, indicating a good liquid absorption capacity. Dissolution tests showed an initial burst release of 75% of the drug within the first hour, followed by the sustained release over 2 h. The zeta potential of CPCCNFs ranged from −9.6 to +11.1 mV, confirming good colloidal stability. The antibacterial results showed an appreciable zone of inhibition of 14.6 ± 1.0 mm against Staphylococcus aureus , demonstrating the strong antibacterial potential of CPCCNFs. According to wound closure and histopathological studies, CPCCNF-treated wounds exhibited a 60% reduction by day 3, 72% by day 7, 85% by day 14, and complete closure by day 19, significantly outperforming the positive control (Quench) and negative control (untreated). The characterizations confirmed the successful synthesis of stable CPCCNFs with good antibacterial potential against Gram-positive bacteria and a promising wound healing ability.

In this study, the cost-effective one-pot fabrication of iron( iii ) oxychloride–iron( iii ) oxide nanomaterials for supercapacitor charge storage has been achieved. We incorporated iron( iii ) oxychloride and iron( iii ) oxide materials into an intercalated polypyrrole (PPy). The resulting composite has a promising crystalline size of 10 nm, indicative of favorable crystalline behavior. Upon complete analysis of the synthesized material, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction reinforce that iron( iii ) oxychloride and iron( iii ) oxide are chemically connected with the PPy network. The core–shell structure features a spherical core approximately 105 nm in diameter, with surface spots ranging from 20 to 30 nm. This morphology provides a high surface area, making it highly suitable for electrical applications and charge storage. The combination of iron( iii ) oxychloride–iron( iii ) oxide inorganic components with the small-sized PPy enhances its electrical properties for energy storage through the fabricated pseudosupercapacitor. The effectiveness of this composite is evaluated using a three-electrode cell, where the composite paste serves as the working electrode with 28.6 W·h·kg −1 energy density ( E ) and 350 F·g −1 specific capacitance ( C S ) at a current density of 1.0 A·g −1 . This highlights the composite’s potential as a highly efficient, cost-effective supercapacitor material. Additionally, the stability of this supercapacitor is 98.1% after 1,000 cycles, suggesting its suitability for commercial applications.

Trimetallic nanoparticles have garnered significant attention due to their promising biological activities. In this study, the aqueous extract of banana peel was utilized as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the green synthesis of novel trimetallic titanium dioxide–magnesium oxide–gold nanoparticles (TiO 2 –MgO–Au NPs). The biosynthesized nanoparticles were spherical, with an average size of 55 nm as observed by transmission electron microscopy and 70 nm based on dynamic light scattering measurements. Antimicrobial tests revealed that the nanoparticles exhibited minimum inhibitory concentration values of 500 µg·mL −1 against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli , 250 µg·mL −1 against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans , and 125 µg·mL −1 against Staphylococcus aureus . The nanoparticles demonstrated significant antibiofilm activity, inhibiting methicillin-resistant S. aureus biofilm formation by 86.8% at 250 µg·mL −1 and by 25.1% at 15.62 µg·mL −1 . The MTT assay showed strong cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cells, with the lowest IC 50 value of 11.09 ± 1.02 µg·mL −1 observed in MCF-7 cells. Additionally, ELISA results confirmed that TiO 2 –MgO–Au NPs enhanced the activation of caspase-8 while reducing the levels of VEGFR-2. In conclusion, the biosynthesized TiO 2 –MgO–Au NPs showed significant antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anticancer potential, particularly against breast cancer cells, indicating their potential as a novel therapeutic agent.

Malnutrition is a growing global health concern that contributes to obesity. This study presents the green synthesis of chromium oxide nanoparticles (Cr₂O₃ NPs) using pomegranate husk aqueous extract as both reducing and capping agents via a microwave-assisted method. The synthesized MA-Cr₂O₃ NPs were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), HR-transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction methods. TEM analysis revealed an average particle size of 11.69 nm, and EDX confirmed nanoparticle (NP) purity. Antioxidant activity was assessed through 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and ABTS assays, showing strong free radical scavenging abilities of 80.4% and 65.8% at 1 and 5 mg·mL −1 , respectively. The NPs also contained notable levels of phenolics (10.14 mg GAE·g −1 ) and flavonoids (33.28 mg QE·g −1 ). In enzyme inhibition assays, NPs exhibited potent activity against pancreatic lipase (91.7%) and α-amylase (90.5%), with EC₅₀ values of 0.16 ± 0.002 mg·mL −1 and 0.15 ± 0.003 mg·mL −1 at 0.25 mg·mL −1 . Cytotoxicity testing on Vero cells showed 55.5% viability at 0.25 mg·mL −1 , indicating acceptable biocompatibility. These results highlight the potential of MA-Cr₂O₃ NPs for antioxidant and anti-obesity applications, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for managing health issues related to malnutrition.

The present study focused on the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) utilizing an aqueous extract (leaves) of Tradescantia spathacea and assessed their antibacterial and anticancer activities. The characterization of NPs was performed using XRD, UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and HRTEM with selected area electron diffraction. The antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs was evaluated using the disc diffusion method and the trypan blue dye exclusion method. The anticancer effects in HeLa cells were assessed using the MTT assay, while cellular uptake was assessed through Rhodamine B isothiocyanate-labeled ZnO NPs. The cytotoxic properties of NPs were assessed by estimating the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and apoptosis by Hoechst, propidium iodide, Annexin V-FITC staining, and cell cycle distribution. The synthesized NPs exhibited antibacterial ability with the highest inhibition zone measuring 13.2 mm at a concentration of 1 mg·mL −1 . The MTT assay on HeLa cells showed dose-dependent viability ranging from 88% to 24%, with an IC 50 value of 84.26 μg·mL −1 . JC-1 and Hoechst staining assays confirmed the impairment of MMP and apoptosis, with significant cell cycle arrest observed in the Sub G0/G1, S, and G2/M phases, indicating a disruption in the regular cell cycle. In conclusion, green-synthesized ZnO NPs displayed significant antibacterial and anticancer properties, emphasizing their potential for use in biomedicine and healthcare applications.

This study presents an eco-friendly approach for synthesizing chitosan-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Ch-SPIONs) using Carica papaya bark extract as a green reducing and stabilizing agent. The phytochemicals present in the bark extract facilitate the formation of SPIONs with well-defined magnetic characteristics. Comprehensive characterization through UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the successful synthesis of Ch-SPIONs. The nanoparticles exhibited an average size range of 50–80 nm with a rectangular morphology and a UV-vis absorption peak at 300 nm. The antioxidant potential of Ch-SPIONs was evaluated, revealing concentration-dependent scavenging activity that surpassed standard antioxidants at higher concentrations. Antibacterial assays demonstrated significant efficacy against Klebsiella pneumoniae (15 mm inhibition zone) and Staphylococcus aureus (20 mm inhibition zone). Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity studies on HeLa cervical cancer cells showed dose-dependent cell death, with an IC 50 value of 18 ± 0.4 μg·mL −1 , compared to 11 ± 0.5 μg·mL −1 for doxorubicin. Apoptotic induction and cell cycle disruption were further validated through fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. These findings underscore the potential of Carica papaya -mediated Ch-SPIONs as a sustainable, biocompatible nanomaterial for anticancer and antimicrobial applications, offering a promising alternative to conventional synthesis methods. Graphical abstract

Tuna dark muscle protein isolate (TDMPI) derived from yellowfin tuna ( Thunnus albacares ) represents a sustainable by-product for bioactive peptide production. In this study, TDMPI was hydrolysed using alcalase, an eco-friendly enzymatic approach, to generate antioxidant-rich hydrolysates. These hydrolysates contained a diverse profile of hydrophobic and negatively charged amino acids, which contributed to their antioxidant properties. Ultrafiltration was employed to fractionate the hydrolysates into three peptide fractions, which were tested for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging (DPPH-RSA), lipid peroxidation inhibition (LPIA), and total reducing power (TRPA). Results showed that peptides <10 kDa exhibited higher antioxidant activity than the unfractionated hydrolysates, with peptides <3 kDa exhibiting the highest DPPH-RSA and TRPA. However, LPIA was higher in peptides >10 kDa. Hydrolysis time significantly affected antioxidant activity: DPPH-RSA increased up to 9 h, while LPIA peaked at 6 h and TRPA at 3 h before declining. This study demonstrated that TDMPI hydrolysates and their peptide fractions exhibited significant antioxidant activities, making them promising natural alternatives to synthetic preservatives. Their utilisation potentially supports functional food applications and aligns with green processing strategies for valorising fishery by-products. Graphical abstract

This study aimed at the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using an aqueous extract of Clerodendron phlomoides leaves as both reducing and stabilizing agents. The success of SeNP synthesis was confirmed using various analytical characterization techniques such as UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM techniques. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of SeNPs was observed at 325 nm, confirming their polycrystalline nature, while FTIR analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids on the surface of SeNPs that acted as reducing and stabilizing agents for nanoparticle formation. The crystalline pattern obtained from XRD revealed primitive hexagonal structures of SeNPs. The spherical-shaped SeNPs, with a size of around 30 nm, were visualized and confirmed through SEM and TEM investigations. A good antiproliferative activity against the HepG-2 cell line at 13 µg·mL −1 and a significant improvement in SOD activity demonstrated the ability of flavonoid-capped SeNPs to act as potent anticancer and antioxidant agents. SeNPs also exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Staphylococcus aureus strains by disrupting the cell membranes. Further, an RSM-based investigation on the removal of Pb 2+ ions showed superior adsorption efficiency of SeNPs, with a loading capacity of 101.9 mg·g −1 . The results of this study demonstrate the multi-application potential of SeNPs synthesized through green principles using leaf aqueous extract of Clerodendron phlomoides . Graphical Abstract

Oil palm trunk (OPT) is widely studied as an underutilized material with large cellulose and lignin contents. As an environmentally friendly solvent, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) can be employed to extract cellulose. The main objective of this study was to evaluate both basic and acidic DES and to optimize cellulose yield from OPT extraction. The type of DES used were choline chloride (ChCl)–urea, ChCl–lactic acid, ChCl–levulinic acid, and ChCl–glycerol. For the optimization, response surface methodology with three-level factorial Box–Behnken design was used with mass ratio solid/liquid in the range of 5–10 g sample/g DES, temperature between 80 and 110°C, and extraction time in the range of 1–4 h. The results showed that the optimal condition for ChCl–levulinic acid was a mass ratio of 5.05%, a temperature of 104.2°C, and a reaction time of 3.76 h with a cellulose yield of 91.29%. It is shown that acidic DESs produce a higher cellulose yield than basic DES. This experiment also offers an important understanding of fractionation and optimization to improve OPT utilization with green solvents.

Contaminants like heavy metals in water bodies pose serious risks to human health and ecosystems, often leading to acute and chronic disorders, including cancer and organ damage. Understanding water contamination is vital for sustainable development. A biosensor is a biocompatible, sustainable device that can detect heavy metal ions. To do this, we used a hydrothermal process to produce nitrogen-doped carbon dots (NCDs) from the plant Brahmi ( Bacopa monnieri ), given that Brahmi is a novel material for the synthesis of carbon dots and a medicinal plant. The nanoparticles’ size and morphology were analyzed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering techniques, while Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy were employed for sample characterization. Optical properties were studied using ultraviolet (UV) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The NCDs showed a high quantum yield of 15.7%, and demonstrated significant fluorescence quenching in the presence of Fe³⁺ and Ni²⁺ ions, with detection limits of 1.46 and 3.19 µmol·L −1 , respectively. This rapid, accurate method offers a promising solution for detecting heavy metals in water and could be expanded to real water samples and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye under UV light.

The synthesis of the tungsten( VI ) oxide iodide/poly-2-amino-1-mercaptobenzene nanoporous composite (W(VI)OI/P2AMB-NP composite) follows a two-step process. Initially, 2-amino-1-mercaptobenzene undergoes oxidative polymerization using iodine as the oxidant, followed by a double replacement reaction with Na 2 WO 6 . This process leads to the formation of a unique composite structure, where nanoparticles ranging from 15 to 20 nm aggregate into larger secondary particles exceeding 500 nm and further assemble into micrometer-scale clusters (>1 µm). X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the high crystallinity and semiconducting nature of the composite, revealing a remarkably small crystalline size of ∼59 nm. This well-defined nanostructure contributes significantly to its charge storage performance. Electrochemical characterization was carried out using a three-electrode system, where the W(VI)OI/P2AMB-NP composite exhibited a high specific capacitance ( C s ) of 200 F·g −1 at a current density of 1.0 A·g −1 . Additionally, the material demonstrated an impressive energy density of 49.9 Wh·kg −1 , indicating its strong potential as an advanced pseudocapacitor electrode. Beyond its electrochemical efficiency, this composite is cost-effectiveness and amenable to scalable synthesis, supporting its suitability for commercial applications. Long-term cycling stability tests revealed excellent durability, with 99.1% capacitance retention after 1,000 charge–discharge cycles. These attributes position the W(VI)OI/P2AMB-NP composite as a highly promising candidate for next-generation energy storage systems, offering a compelling combination of performance, stability, and economic viability.

This study explores the green synthesis and characterization of monometallic Ag nanoparticles (NPs), Cu NPs, and bimetallic Ag–Cu NPs mediated by the aqueous extract of Syzygium aromaticum as a reducing agent. It aims to address the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus saprophyticus . The synthesized NPs were characterized using techniques such as UV-Vis, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy, and their antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and ROS production activities were evaluated. Results revealed that bimetallic Ag–Cu NPs exhibited higher antibacterial and antibiofilm effects than monometallic counterparts, with enhanced synergistic effects when combined with antibiotics. Because of the importance of Ag NPs and Cu NPs, the application of molecular docking simulations to Ag NPs and Cu NPs can provide comprehensive insights into their chemical and biological properties. This technique collectively aids in assessing the viability of Ag NPs and Cu NPs as drug candidates, optimizing their structures for better efficacy and safety, and predicting their behavior within biological systems. The study concludes that Ag–Cu NPs hold promise for addressing resistant bacterial strains and biofilm-related infections.

The development of innovative nanocomposites and their applications to a range of goods and technologies with antimicrobial properties has received increasing interest. However, recently, researchers have been concerned about the toxic effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on cellular systems. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the biogenic AgNPs’ antibacterial activity and associated cytotoxic effects using various extracts of Tabernaemonta ventricosa . AgNPs synthesized using leaf and stem extracts were subjected to the disc diffusion technique for testing against Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains, and the antibacterial efficacy of the produced AgNPs was evaluated. Conversely, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2 H -tetrazolium bromide (MTT) test was used to assess the cytotoxic potential of NPs on several cell lines, including the human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa), MCF-7, and human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. The most potent antibacterial suppression against Bacillus subtilis , Escherichia coli , methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus aureus , and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was demonstrated by AgNPs that were made utilizing both powdered leaf (PL) and fresh leaf (FL) extracts, which showed the highest zone of inhibition of 15.33 ± 0.58 mm. However, in HeLa, the AgNPs produced using FL extracts showed high cytotoxic effects with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50 ) of 0.39 µg·mL −1 . These findings suggest that the synthesized AgNPs using T. ventricosa extracts display adequate antibacterial activity but also some toxic effects.

Composite materials containing zinc oxide (ZnO) particles have excellent antimicrobial properties and are non-toxic. ZnO particles were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method employing glucose as a green reducing agent. This work aims to improve the synergistic effects of bacterial cellulose (BC) composites with ZnO particles (BC@ZnO composite). BC is produced by Gluconacetobacter xylinus using agricultural wastes as a substrate. ZnO particles were directly distributed on the surfaces of BC, which is a carrier with the capability to transport and deliver active ingredients. The morphological and structural characteristics were evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. ZnO has a unique star-like structure with a diameter of about 1.3 μm and is composed of small flakes with a thickness of about 29 nm. ZnO was uniformly embedded throughout the BC matrix. X-ray diffraction confirmed the structural identity of ZnO, consistent with the hexagonal wurtzite structure, and revealed pure cellulose crystals with altered crystallinity peaks. The antimicrobial activity of composite materials against pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae demonstrated significant inhibition against both bacteria. These results indicate that the synthesized BC@ZnO composite materials are promising for antimicrobial applications in various biomedical fields. Graphical abstract

A selective, sensitive, and eco-friendly microextraction method followed by the solidified floating organic drop-dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was investigated to determine copper( ii ) ions by spectrophotometry. The developed method depends on forming a colored complex between copper ion and 2-aminophenol with a maximum absorbance at a maximum absorption wavelength of 440 nm. This enables the estimation of copper ions in different water samples by direct spectrophotometry. The key factors that influence the stability of the colored association complex and the performance of the extractive method were studied and optimized. A quantitative range of 10–75 µg·L −1 of copper was detected. The calibration equation was determined and found to have a slope of 0.0141 and an intercept of 0.0382. The limit of detection was 3.0 µg·L −1 , while the limit of quantification was 9.3 µg·L −1 . The relative standard deviation ( n = 3) was evaluated to be 0.62%. Common ion interference effects were investigated, and the method was fairly selective. The proposed method was applied practically for the estimation of copper levels in common water samples. The reliability and accuracy of the developed method were proved by the analysis of different types of water samples.

The purpose of this work is to study the kinetic features of the formation of phosphate agglomerates from low-grade phosphorites in the presence of phosphate–siliceous shales (PSSs), coke, and oil sludge. The selection of the Yerofeyev–Kolmogorov equation characterizing heterogeneous processes is justified by a comparative analysis of the Aravi equation used for the crystallization processes. The PSS/coke–oil sludge system has been studied in the temperature range of 1,073–1,373 K in the air environment, typical for agglomeration firing. Thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and IR spectrometry were used to study the features of oil sludge and the physicochemical characteristics of the phase composition and mineralogical structure of the firing products. The effect of the modulus of acidity and temperature on the strength parameters of phosphate agglomerate was studied for charges of 0.7–0.83, providing mechanical strength of 3.3–3.4 MPa at temperatures of 1,313–1,318 K of the onset of deformation. The calculation results of the apparent energy corresponding to 4.15–22.99 kJ·mol −1 indicate complex diffusion–reaction characteristics of the agglomeration process in the presence of PSS and oil sludge.

The graphene oxide and Cr/Mn base metal–organic framework (GO/Cr/Mn-MOF) composites were prepared by incorporating chromium acetate, tetrahydrate manganese acetate, and metal ions, using phthalic acid as the organic ligand. Before evaluating their efficacy in removing antibiotics, these GO/Cr/Mn-MOF composites were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The experimental findings demonstrated that when 100 mg of GO/Cr/Mn-MOF composites were applied to a 30 mg·L −1 minocycline solution, the removal efficiencies for terramycin and minocycline reached 71% and 98.5%, respectively. In addition, upon adding 30 mg of GO/Cr/Mn-MOF composites to a 50 mg·L −1 terramycin solution, the highest adsorption capacity recorded within 5 h was 130.9 mg·g −1 . Likewise, introducing 20 mg of GO/Cr/Mn-MOF composites into a 50 mg·L −1 minocycline solution resulted in a maximum adsorption capacity of 236.6 mg·g −1 over the same duration. The experimental results were evaluated using both the Langmuir and Freundlich isothermal models, as well as kinetic models for analysis. The results show that the experimental data aligned with theoretical models, indicating that the removal process adhered to both second-order kinetics and multilayer adsorption mechanisms. Overall, the study concluded that physical adsorption was the primary mechanism governing the uptake of terramycin and minocycline by the GO/Cr/Mn-MOF composites.

Poor water solubility and limited stability of ceramide E (Cer-E) hinder its effectiveness when applied topically. To address this issue, this work developed a microfluidic-controlled method to prepare Cer-E-loaded liposomes, which were stabilized within phospholipid bilayers of liposomes. The influence of key formulation parameters on the size and stability of liposomes was systematically evaluated, including flow rate, drug-to-lipid ratio, cholesterol content, and surfactant type. Additionally, the moisture retention ability, transdermal performance, and antioxidant capacity of the microfluidic-prepared liposomes were examined. Cer-E proved to be effectively encapsulated within liposomes under optimized conditions. Physicochemical characterization revealed uniform vesicles with an average diameter of 121 nm and a zeta potential of −20.2 mV, along with high encapsulation efficiency of 92.8% and drug loading content up to 9.5%. Functional assays demonstrated enhanced moisture retention, improved transdermal delivery, and superior antioxidant activity compared to liposomes produced by ethanol injection method. These performance improvements are attributed to the precise mixing and increased stability provided by microfluidic processing. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of microfluidic liposomal systems to overcome delivery challenges for hydrophobic skin actives like Cer-E.

Recently, nanoparticles (NPs) have become essential in environmental and health research. This study focuses on the biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) using the leaf extract of the Anamirta cocculus plant for its anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, anticancer, and blood-compatible qualities. The phytocompounds facilitate the biogenic synthesis of Au NPs. To explore physical and chemical properties of Au NPs, zeta potential, FE-SEM, EDX, UV, and X-ray diffraction techniques were used. The spherical Au NPs (7–10 nm) showed significant antiradical (DPPH) and iron chelating activity with IC 50 values of 22.82 ± 1.8 and 20.82 ± 0.8 μg·mL −1 , respectively. The Au NPs were least toxic towards RBCs and showed significant clot lysis activity. The NP showed alpha-amylase (79.54 ± 0.7%), alpha-glucosidase (83.14 ± 1.9%), dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory (81.20 ± 0.8%), and anti-inflammatory activity (81.12 ± 1.3%). This is the first study showing the use of Anamirta cocculus leaf extract for fabrication of Au NPs in an eco-friendly way, which adds to the novelty of the work. The biological activities of these biocompatible Au NPs indicate their promise as a novel therapeutic agent for managing diabetes, cancer, and associated inflammatory disorders. Thus, Au NPs are biocompatible with various therapeutic properties that can be helpful for biomedical applications. Graphical abstract

This study explores the versatile features of eco-friendly green synthesized silver-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ag/ZnO NPs) using a fresh leaf extract of Micromeria imbricata as both a reducing and a stabilizing agent. The work primarily evaluates the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of the pre-synthesized Ag/ZnO NPs and the plant extract. Structural and morphological characterization confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure of Ag/ZnO NPs via X-ray diffraction (XRD), with absorption peaks at 256 and 374 nm and a band gap of 3.17 eV. Fourier transform infrared analysis confirmed that phytoconstituents in the M. imbricata extract facilitated the synthesis, capping, and stabilization of Ag/ZnO NPs. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses showed spherical NPs with an average size of 28.12 nm. Antibacterial tests demonstrated that both ZnO NPs and Ag/ZnO NPs had strong bactericidal effects against tested strains, with Ag/ZnO NPs exhibiting superior performance. These NPs produced significant zones of inhibition and reduced the bacterial growth and viable cell counts. In comparison, the M. imbricata extract showed moderate antibacterial activity. However, antioxidant assays revealed that the extract had the highest efficacy (IC 50 = 48.72 µg·mL −1 ), surpassing both ZnO NPs (76.41 µg·mL −1 ) and Ag/ZnO NPs (81.51 µg·mL −1 ). Overall, these Ag/ZnO NPs effectively inhibit the growth of various pathogens, underscoring their promise for applications in antimicrobial system design and medical device innovation.

Light is arguably one of the most significant aspects of microgreen algae growth and lipid yields. Microgreen algae-based biodiesel production offers a pioneering method of producing renewable fuel. In this research, Chlorella sp. was cultivated in colorless (control), red, orange, yellow, blue, and green Erlenmeyer flasks. The BG11 medium was used with continuous illumination by cool white fluorescent light with a light intensity of 2,500 lux (35 µmol photon·m −2 ·s −1 ), and light: dark (12:12 h). After 14 days of cultivation, dry weight, pigments, and lipids % were measured. The results demonstrate that the red color was the best effect on Chlorella sp. growth under continuous light. Control enhanced the production of Chlorophyll- a and Chlorophyll- b in continuous illumination. Non-significant results among control, red, and blue colors in the case of algal dry weight, under dark: light. The quantity of saturated fatty acids was higher in algae cultivated in the red flask (42.9%), followed by blue with continuous illumination. Control with continuous illumination denotes a higher amount of monounsaturated fatty acids. Alga in the blue flask produced a high quantity (83.71%) of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the light: dark cycle. The color light can be used to enhance the lipid quality.

The growing need for sustainable materials has driven interest in natural fiber-reinforced composites. The vibrational behavior of natural composites incorporating unconventional, waste-derived fibers remains underexplored. This study addresses gap by investigating the dynamic characteristics of natural composite plates reinforced with banana fibers, sisal fibers, jute, chicken feathers, and palmyra sprouts. The objective is to evaluate how varying fiber compositions and aspect ratios influence the vibrational response of the composites. The composites were fabricated using the compression molding method, with polyester resin serving as the matrix. Impact hammer testing was employed to determine the fundamental natural frequency, damping factor, and amplitude across different fiber weight ratios and aspect ratios. Results showed that the composite containing 15 wt% palmyra sprouts, 10 wt% sisal fibers, 5 wt% chicken feathers, and 70 wt% polyester resin exhibited a fundamental natural frequency of 279.69 Hz for an aspect ratio (a/b) of 0.25 and 609.38 Hz for a ratio of 0.125. The findings indicate that optimized fiber blending enhances the vibrational characteristics, making the material suitable for vibration control applications. This study contributes to the development of eco-friendly composites with tailored dynamic properties. Future work may explore long-term durability and performance in structural and energy absorption systems.

Plant-based nanoparticle synthesis is the primary focus of modern nanotechnology to reduce the toxicity risk and ensure environmental safety. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) were synthesized in the present investigation using an aqueous extract composed of sea buckthorn berries, adopting a biogenic approach. The green synthesized ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) exhibited a significant absorption peak near 370 nm in the UV–Vis spectrum. Fourier transform infrared study revealed the functional moieties responsible for the stability and capping of ZnO-NPs. The average particle size of the synthesized ZnO-NPs was 52.6 ± 12.51 nm, and their morphologies ranged from spherical to irregular, as indicated by the field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis. X-Ray diffraction study revealed the hexagonal wurtzite-structured NPs with an average particle size of 19.2 nm. The zeta potential of −20 mV indicated the colloidal stability of synthesized NPs. The biogenic ZnO-NPs were assessed for their antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-lipid peroxidation potential, where ZnO-NPs have shown better activity than the berry extract. Notably, the antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized ZnO-NPs was observed against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 3160 and Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli MTCC 1698, with the zone of inhibition observed as 18 ± 0.23 mm and 39 ± 1.24 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration for S. aureus and E. coli was reported to be 0.5 and 1.0 mg·mL −1 , respectively. The LC 50 for Daphnia was reported to be 16.09 mg·mL −1 , confirming the safety of the green-synthesized ZnO-NPs.

This study investigated the combined effects of electroporation and microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) on the characteristics of liquid smoke produced from empty fruit bunches (EFBs). Ground EFBs were subjected to electroporation in an electroporation chamber at varying electric fields of 15 and 20 kV·cm −1 and subsequently pyrolysed at varying temperatures of 300°C and 400°C in a modified microwave oven connected to a condensation system. Electroporation significantly altered EFB structure, with higher electric fields (20 kV·cm −1 ) causing greater structural disruptions, as evidenced by reduced pore sizes. MAP of EFBs electroporated at 15 kV·cm −1 produced a higher liquid smoke yield, while severe electroporation (20 kV·cm −1 ) resulted in lower yields but higher antioxidant capacity and lower pH. This was attributed to improved chemical selectivity under high electric fields and phenolic enrichment. A proposed lignocellulose degradation mechanism outlined the roles of MAP temperature and electric fields in influencing chemical conversion pathways. These findings highlight the potential for optimising electroporation and MAP to enhance the valorisation of EFBs, providing a sustainable green approach for producing high-quality liquid smoke from agricultural waste. Graphical Abstract

This study investigates the synthesis of a modified polymer based on polyacrylamide and gossypol resin in the presence of formalin. The methodology for the synthesis of fatty acids from gossypol resin is presented, and the physicochemical properties of fatty acids for the synthesis of the modified polymer are determined. The elemental and structural features of the polyacrylamide, hydrolyzed polyacrylamide, and modified polyacrylamide were studied using modern instrumental equipment. The physicochemical and rheological properties of the modified polymer were determined, and the optimal technological parameters of the process were established. The results of the experimental work were processed using the integrated programs Statistica-10 and show a 3D simulation of the process. Aqueous solutions of the synthesized modified polymer at low concentrations have a structure-forming effect; in more concentrated solutions, they have a stabilizing effect. The developed modified polymer MPAA is in demand in agrochemistry for encapsulating ammophos granules as an encapsulating reagent to impart strength to the granules.

The existence of various pollutants in the environment threatens the health of nature and mankind. Microwave (MW) catalysis, an emerging technology featuring rapid reaction rates, uniform heating, energy-saving efficiency, and environmental friendliness, is expected to fill the gaps in existing catalytic treatment technologies. Iron-based catalysts, which are abundantly distributed, economically sustainable, and possess excellent composite magnetic permeability and electromagnetic wave-absorbing properties, show great potential in MW catalysis. This review classifies iron-based catalysts for MW catalysis and investigates their interactions with MWs. Additionally, various characterization techniques are used to analyze the structural and compositional features of these catalysts. The correlation between the performance, structural morphology, and chemical composition of Fe-based is systematically discussed. The reaction devices, treatment objects, and parameters that influence the use of iron-based catalysts to treat environmental pollutants under MW irradiation are introduced. The application of density functional theory in treating environmental contaminants with iron-based catalysts under MW irradiation and the technological means to enhance the coupling of MW catalysis are described. Finally, future research prospects are proposed.

Biochar, an economical adsorbent, has drawn attention for Cu( ii ) removal from wastewater. However, its performance is limited by inadequate functional groups and low specific surface area. In this study, coconut husk biochar (CB) was selected as the optimal precursor among four biochars modified with potassium humate. The optimized modified biochar (CMB) exhibited significantly enhanced Cu( ii ) adsorption capacity under optimal conditions (pH = 6.0, adsorbent dosage = 10 g·L −1 ). Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Boehm titration analyses indicated chemisorption via surface complexation and ion exchange as the dominant adsorption mechanisms. Batch experiments evaluated the influence of initial Cu( ii ) concentration, pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time, while adsorption kinetics and isotherms were analyzed using nonlinear regression. Fixed-bed column experiments further revealed that CMB significantly extended the breakthrough time from 90 min (CB) to 300 min (CMB), improving total Cu( ii ) adsorption capacity. Additionally, column desorption tests confirmed excellent regeneration potential. Thus, due to its simple preparation, and superior adsorption efficiency, CMB shows promising applicability in Cu( ii ) contaminated wastewater treatment.

As one of the important contaminants of water pollution, the toxic heavy metals have harmful effects on the lives of human beings and the environments. For instance, chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) are listed in the 11 hazardous priority substances of pollutants. Hence, it is of utmost importance to purify water before use. The effective disposal of heavy metals has been arousing worldwide concern in the last few decades. Nano-particles are widely studied as heavy metal adsorbents because of their unique physical and chemical properties. The work purified the contaminated water using the magnetite Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles with different particle sizes, adsorption time, and pH value. Adsorbents were conveniently separated from the resultant via an external magnetic field due to the magnetic properties of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles. Subsequently, a series of characterization methods, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic emission spectrophotometer, were used to characterize the structures of nano-particles obtained before and after the purification process and to test heavy metal content. The main results and conclusions in this work are summarized as follows: the removal of heavy metal ions increased with increasing adsorption time and decreasing particle size. The optimal pH of Cr 6+ , Cu 2+ , Ni 2+ , and Cd 2+ is 2, 4, and 11, respectively. All the removal rates were above 97%. The experimental results indicate that physical adsorption plays a dominant role in Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles. It is a promising adsorbent for heavy metal ions.

Despite antibiotics’ effectiveness in treating infectious diseases, their misuse and overuse have led to a serious public health issue, known as antimicrobial resistance. This study addresses the growing public health challenge of antimicrobial resistance by presenting a novel approach for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from parsley ( Petroselinum crispum ) leaves using an eco-friendly method. The study evaluated and compared the antibacterial properties of the prepared AgNPs and the parsley boiled leaf extract against two foodborne and resistant microbes, Bacillus cereus ( B. cereus ) and Klebsiella pneumoniae ( K. pneumoniae ). Characterization techniques, including UV-Vis spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, confirmed the successful synthesis of spherical nanoparticles with crystalline structure at the nanoscale level. The boiled parsley leaf extract showed a lower antimicrobial effect compared to the nanosilver extract at the same concentration and against the same types of bacteria. The extract showed the highest inhibition zone again st B. cereus and K. pneumoniae at 14.50 and 10.50 mm, respectively; however, AgNPs showed inhibition zones of 31.33 and 20.50 mm against the same bacteria, respectively. In addition, AgNPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity against B. cereus and K. pneumoniae , significantly outperforming ceftriaxone ( P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, AgNPs are more effective than the traditional antibiotic ceftriaxone at preventing bacterial growth at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 32 μg·mL −1 . Additionally, AgNPs scavenge DPPH free radicals at the maximum concentration at rates of 85.60% compared to 65.89%, demonstrating superior antioxidant activity than the parsley extract. According to the findings, parsley-derived AgNPs have the potential to be antibacterial agents, particularly against food-related bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, and thus, present novel strategies for combating antibiotic resistance. These findings pave the way for innovative techniques in antimicrobial therapy.

The current study successfully biosynthesized bimetallic silver–selenium nanoparticles (Ag–Se NPs) using an extract from Salvia hispanica seeds. Our research revealed that Salvia hispanica seed extract is a substantial source of various phytochemicals. Ag–Se NPs were characterized by UV, XRD, FTIR, HR-TEM, SEM-EDX analyses, and mapping studies. Moreover, Ag–Se NPs showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus , and B. subtilis . In addition, Ag–Se NPs demonstrated antibiofilm effectiveness against two biofilm-forming bacteria, K. pneumoniae and S. aureus. Ag–Se NPs exhibited significant antioxidant activity in the DPPH and ABTS experiments, surpassing ascorbic acid (IC 50 = 354 and 241 µg·mL −1 ). In contrast, the reported low IC 50 values for the tested Ag–Se NPs against prostate (PC3), and ovarian (SK-OV3) cancerous cell lines were 52.5 and 62.94 μg·mL −1 , respectively, indicating their significant efficacy against these cancerous cell lines, and the IC 50 for the Vero cells was 187.8 µg·mL −1 . Anti-diabetic effects were demonstrated by the inhibition of α-amylase (91.1%) and α-glucosidase (85.6%) at 1 mg·mL −1 . Ultimately, Ag–Se NP dosage at the MIC values exhibited reduced expression of the virulence genes mag A and tox A in K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa by 29.4% and 24.5%, respectively. Graphical abstract

Launaea sarmentosa , a creeping herb, is utilized in folk medicines, either alone or in combination with other herbs, to treat various inflammatory diseases. Yet, the extraction efficiency improvement for its anti-inflammatory components has never been inspected deeply. Hence, response surface methodology was first employed to optimize the parameters of the ultrasound-assisted extraction process, approaching anti-inflammatory ingredients from Launaea sarmentosa via nitric oxide (NO) scavenging capacity. According to the Box–Behnken design model, the optimum parameters are as follows: solvent-to-solid ratio of 20.81 mL·g −1 , extraction time of 15.72 min, and temperature of 51.80°C using absolute ethanol (99.8%) at a constant frequency of 37 kHz. For such optimized conditions, the actual IC 50 value of NO removal capacity gained 206.56 µg·mL −1 , which agreed with the obtained model value (IC 50 , 209.68 µg·mL −1 ). Besides, the enhanced presence of anti-inflammatory ingredients was confirmed by deactivating nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-кB) signaling, thereby suppressing NO production and pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, the initial life cycle assessment results indicated that the extraction process was environmentally friendly, with low-impact indicators on ecosystems. Lastly, these findings offer valuable insight into the anti-inflammatory extraction process of L. sarmentosa through a novel approach, along with its potential for “green and sustainable” industrial applications. Graphical abstract

Early research on recycling agri-food industry waste focused on valorization to identify valuable components lost when waste is disposed of, reflecting a linear economy model. With the shift to a circular economy, current research aims for full recycling of waste containing high-value compounds. This study builds on previous work involving egg white layer proteins and high-purity calcium salts to explore the potential of eggshell membranes for lipase immobilization. Eggshell waste was treated with acids (5% hydrochloric, 10% acetic, 15% o -phosphoric), and then lipase from Burkholderia cepacia was immobilized using adsorption and covalent binding. The immobilized enzymes were tested for biochemical and operational properties. Results showed improved thermal stability, altered pH and temperature optima, and retention of up to 85% of initial activity after ten reuse cycles. Adsorption proved to be the most effective immobilization method, offering superior stability and reusability. Among the carriers tested, ESMC-HCl was identified as the most suitable, with the immobilized lipase successfully applied in the enzymatic pretreatment of wastewater from the oil-processing industry. This application achieved over 89% removal of chemical oxygen demand and reduced total oil content from 95% to 18% across four treatment cycles, demonstrating both effectiveness and reusability of the biocatalyst.

With the increasing environmental issues caused by sulfur compound emissions from fossil fuels, the development of green and efficient desulfurization technologies has become a research hotspot. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs), as emerging low-cost, customizable green solvents, show great potential in fuel desulfurization. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the desulfurization mechanism of DESs, including hydrogen bonding, enhanced π–π and CH–π interactions, and synergistic effects of metal ions 12. In addition, oxidation–extraction coupling strategies and process enhancement techniques such as ultrasonic-assisted extraction and microchannel mass transfer further improve desulfurization efficiency. In addition, oxidation–extraction coupling strategies and process enhancement techniques (such as ultrasonic-assisted extraction and microchannel mass transfer) further improve desulfurization efficiency. Overall, DES has broad application prospects in fuel extraction desulfurization and is expected to serve as an alternative or complementary method to hydrodesulfurization technology. Graphical abstract

This study presents a novel approach to synthesizing and characterizing Cu–Fe–Ni ternary alloy and oxide nanostructures for advanced electrochemical and photocatalytic applications. Using electrodeposition on brass substrates from tailored solutions of Nickel( ii )chloride, nickel( ii ) sulfate, and iron( iii ) chloride, five distinct alloy compositions were fabricated with optimized morphologies and electrochemical properties. Notably, succinic acid was identified as an effective additive, enhancing deposition quality and catalytic activity. A unique ternary alloy oxide was further synthesized via controlled combustion at 950°C. Comprehensive characterization using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, Energy dispersive X-ray, and cyclic voltammetry revealed significant structure–property relationships. Alloys formed with higher Ni and Fe chloride concentrations showed rough, agglomerated surfaces, correlating with improved hydrogen evolution reaction performance in alkaline sodium hydroxide. Among all samples, Alloy( v ) exhibited the highest hydrogen production efficiency. Furthermore, the alloy oxide demonstrated remarkable photovoltaic potential, delivering current densities of 23 mA·cm −2 in the dark and 68.45 mA·cm −2 under illumination. These findings showcase a cost-effective, scalable method for producing multifunctional Cu–Fe–Ni-based materials with dual capabilities in hydrogen generation and solar energy conversion – highlighting a new direction in renewable energy material development.

Baobab fruit shell waste (BFS) is well known for its high contribution to the sustainable green environment. This study investigated BFS as a filler fiber mixed with polyethylene (PE) for its degradation behavior and its potential as a nutrient source for soil. Screened BFS was crushed and blended with PE at four levels (PE/BFS: 100/0, 95/5, 90/10, and 85/15 wt%). Extruded mixtures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT), along with a soil burial test, following standard methods. SEM-EDS results indicated an enrichment of blends with trace essential nutrients (Na, Mg, P, K, Ca), which are crucial for metabolism, protein stabilization, and enhancing denitrifiers in microbial cells. TGA and mechanical studies indicated that PE/BFS degraded at a faster rate (starting at 249.1 °C) than the control (376.8 °C). The elongation at break and tensile strength of pure PE decreased with increased BFS content, with elongation at break showing a sharper reduction ( p  < 0.05). DGT results confirmed the presence of beneficial compounds and nutrients in the soil with BFS blends, suggesting its potential as a plant nutrient source. It is crucial to further valorize BFS and organic waste into value-added products for environmental sustainability.

Using Agave durangensis bagasse to produce handmade, cardboard-type paper significantly contributes to a circular economy approach due to the implementation of green, sustainable technologies that reduce negative environmental impact. In this preliminary study, the physical and chemical properties, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and elemental analysis of A. durangensis bagasse from “Planta Tradiciones Mezcaleras S.P.R. de R.L.” in the municipality of Nombre de Dios, Durango, were characterized. The samples underwent two drying treatments (solar and oven drying) and were then processed using the modified Kraft method to obtain cellulose pulp, which is a precursor to cardboard-type paper (CTP). The CTP was characterized by measuring its thickness, grammage, and bulk density. Additionally, infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied to determine the quality of the produced CTP. Under optimal conditions, the average cellulose yield of the two methods was 51.4 %. Global yields of CTP produced were 9.12 ± 0.52  kg bagasse/kg CTP produced for oven drying and 10.59 ± 0.30 kg bagasse/kg CTP produced for solar drying. Likewise, the feasibility of developing new technology through a circular economy approach that integrates multi-process to expand the scope of new materials and promote the sustainability of the mezcal production was demonstrated.

Achieving strong early seedling vigour is a crucial determinant of crop success, particularly in adversity-prone and rainfed areas. This study investigates the influence of seed priming with seaweed extract and citric acid on the early seedling vigour (EVS) and physio-biochemical properties of lentil ( Lens culinaris Medik .). Seaweed extract and citric acid rich in naturally plant regulators, phytoelicitor activity, evoke phytohormonal responses, phytostimulatory properties micronutrients, and antioxidants, was used in concentrations of 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, and 4 %, while citric acid was applied at 50, 100, and 150 ppm. Seeds were soaked in the priming solutions for 18 h, followed by shade drying before sowing. The impact on seed germination, root and shoot length, seedling dry weight, vigour index, and antioxidant activity was assessed in laboratory conditions. The results demonstrated that both priming agents positively influenced early germination and growth. Seaweed extracts enhanced root and shoot elongation (7.16 and 9.04 cm), while citric acid improved membrane stability and reactive oxygen species scavenging. The most effective treatment was of 4 % seaweed extract and 50 ppm citric acid, which showed a significant increase in germination percentage (93.33 % and 63.33 %), seedling vigour index SVI-I &II (34.53, 3.73 and 962.133.67), and early biomass accumulation. Enhanced mobilization of seed reserves and higher antioxidant enzyme activities Chlorophyll (5.51 and 1.92 mg/g/FW) and H 2 O 2 were also recorded in primed seeds. These physiological enhancements are indicative of better resilience and robust establishment potential laboratory conditions. This research highlights that seaweed extract and citric acid priming offers a practical, eco-friendly approach for improving early seedling performance and may be integrated into sustainable lentil production systems.

We herein report a simple and facile synthesis of N, S co-doped carbon quantum dots (N,S-CQDs) complexed with lead ions as a fluorescent nanoprobe for the detection of fluoride ions in adults’ and children’s toothpaste. The nanoprobe was prepared via a hydrothermal method using sodium sulphide, glutamine and citric acid as the sulphur, nitrogen and carbon precursors, respectively. The structural characterisation of the as-synthesised nanoprobe confirmed that the material is small, crystalline and spherical. The nanoprobe was sensitive and selective towards Pb 2+ in the presence of other metal ions. In addition, the as-prepared nanoprobe/Pb 2+ complex was sensitive and selective towards fluoride ions in the presence of other ions, with a detection limit of 78.03 nM. Furthermore, the as-synthesised material served as a nanoprobe for the detection of fluoride ions in commercial toothpaste with recoveries of 98.32–117.03 % in adult’s toothpaste and 103.24–111.88 % in kids’ toothpaste with RSD< 5 %, indicating its potential application in complex matrices.

To address the challenges of high reagent consumption and environmental risks in traditional cyanide gold extraction, this study investigated the leaching of gold from an oxide ore sourced from a gold mine in Laos using an iron ion-thiourea-thiocyanate additive system. The effects of key process parameters (thiourea concentration, iron ion concentration, thiocyanate ion concentration, pH, stirring speed, liquid-solid ratio, and leaching time) on gold leaching rate and thiourea consumption were systematically examined. Additionally, the mechanism of thiocyanate action and the evolution of mineral surface properties before and after leaching were analyzed via X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The optimal leaching conditions were determined as follows: thiourea concentration 0.2 M, iron ion concentration 0.003 M, thiocyanate ion concentration 0.001 M, pH 1.5, stirring speed 250 rpm, liquid-solid ratio 4, and leaching time 6 h. Under these conditions, the gold leaching rate reached 93.1 %, which was higher than that of the cyanide process (91.6 %, 24 h) and thiosulfate process (86.4 %, 4 h). XPS results showed that thiocyanate complexed with Fe 3+ to regulate its electrode potential, reducing the oxidation of thiourea and inhibiting the formation of S 2− (a passivating species) on the ore surface. SEM observations confirmed that the leaching system corroded the ore surface, forming gullies and cracks that promoted mass transfer. Notably, the addition of thiocyanate significantly reduced thiourea consumption but slightly decreased the gold leaching rate, requiring a balance between reagent cost and extraction efficiency. This study provides a feasible and environmentally friendly non-cyanide gold extraction technology for oxide ores, offering theoretical and experimental support for industrial application.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements, challenges, and future directions in green extraction processes for garlic, focusing on the period from 1994 to 2024. Over the past three decades, there has been a significant increase in research on sustainable and environmentally friendly extraction methods, including enzyme-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, and pressurized liquid extraction, among others. These methods have been shown to enhance the yield and quality of key bioactive compounds, such as allicin and other organosulfur compounds, which are critical to garlic’s health benefits. This review highlights the effectiveness of these green extraction techniques in improving the bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic potential of garlic extracts. However, it also addresses the challenges associated with these methods, including scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory acceptance. The need for further optimization and standardization to ensure consistent quality and industrial scalability is emphasized. This article concludes by discussing the future opportunities for green garlic extraction, suggesting that continued innovation and integration with emerging technologies will be key to overcoming current limitations. By doing so, the industry can achieve more sustainable and efficient production methods, meeting the growing demand for natural and eco-friendly products while contributing to the broader goals of environmental sustainability.

The increasing environmental concerns associated with conventional marine coatings have driven significant research interest toward the development of natural sustainable coatings as eco-friendly alternatives. This review addresses the urgent need for greener solutions by systematically analyzing recent advancements in bio-based marine coatings, focusing on materials derived from natural polymers, plant-based oils, marine biopolymers, and bioinspired functional additives. Through a critical evaluation of over 100 articles retrieved from the Scopus database (2018–2025), key sustainable materials such as chitosan, alginate, barnacle cement proteins, and plant-derived surfactants are identified, with detailed discussion of their antifouling and anticorrosion mechanisms. The review reveals that while these materials show great promise, significant challenges remain related to durability, scalability, and regulatory acceptance. Future trends point toward the integration of nanotechnology, smart responsive coatings, and bioinspired antifouling strategies to overcome current limitations. Based on the synthesis of recent findings, this study recommends a multidisciplinary approach combining material innovation, biotechnology, and adaptive design to accelerate the industrial adoption of natural sustainable coatings, thereby promoting marine sustainability and reducing ecological footprints. This review provides a clear roadmap for future research and development in the field, guiding both academic investigation and industrial application.

Chronic wounds pose a significant healthcare challenge, necessitating innovative approaches for improved healing. Traditional medicinal plants have long been used for wound care, and recent advancements in nanotechnology offer new possibilities for enhancing their therapeutic effects. Electrospun nanofibers provide an efficient drug delivery system, improving the bioavailability and stability of bioactive compounds. This review explores the integration of phytochemical-loaded nanofibers for wound healing, highlighting their potential in treating various wounds, including burns, diabetic ulcers, and surgical wounds. Additionally, it discusses the medicinal value of traditional plants, their role in wound care, and the future prospects of combining nanotechnology with artificial intelligence for personalized treatment.

Heterogeneous rhodium supported on mesoporous silica (Rh insitu /mesSiO 2 ) was easily prepared, in one step, by incorporating rhodium units onto the silica framework during the sol–gel process. Rh insitu /mesSiO 2 was revealed to be an excellent active and selective catalyst for the hydrogenation of aromatic, heteroaromatic, aliphatic nitriles, and aliphatic nitriles bearing aromatic or heteroaromatic rings to primary amines, regardless of their steric hindrance. The catalytic system that is efficiently recyclable operates under mild conditions in the presence of ammonia. Graphical Abstract Rh insitu /mesSiO 2 was prepared in one step by incorporating rhodium units onto the silica during the sol–gel process. It was revealed as an excellent active and selective catalyst for the hydrogenation of aromatic, heteroaromatic, aliphatic nitriles, and aliphatic nitriles bearing aromatic or heteroaromatic rings to primary amines.

Potentially toxic element contamination in water poses a significant environmental concern. Lead in divalent form (Pb 2+ ) is considered as highly toxic due to its wide number of applications in synthetic paint, metal smelting, and industrial applications and is harmful to the environment and public health. Researchers are exploring biochar production from biomass such as coconut husk biochar (CHBC) to achieve the objectives of sustainable development and circular economy. Thus, in this current study, we focused on the production, effectiveness, and characterization of CHBC as a cost-effective adsorbent for the elimination of Pb 2+ . In this regard, biochar was optimized at different temperatures of 200°C, 400°C and 600°C, and the best yield was obtained at 600°C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies were conducted for further characterization, which showed an increase in the crystallinity of biochar from 56.4% to 64.3%, suggesting that the prepared biochar is highly porous. The prepared biochar was leveraged for the removal of Pb 2+ from water using varying concentrations, temperatures, and pH conditions, and the analysis was carried out using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy. The optimal parameters were found to be a molar concentration of 0.0125 M, a catalyst dose of 500 mg, room temperature, and a pH of 6. Adsorption follows Langmuir and Temkin isotherms, which appear to be well suited in the adsorption process based on the correlation coefficient of the linear graph ( R 2 = 0.97 and 0.99) and pseudo-first-order kinetics, with a correlation coefficient of R 2 = 0.546. The empirical results indicate that the usage of a pseudo-first-order kinetics model is well-matched in the adsorption process, and the evaluation was done by using UV–vis spectroscopy, while characterization was carried out using SEM–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and XRD. Thus, the prepared biochar has been demonstrated to be an efficient platform for lead decontamination, paving the way for future researchers to explore and develop more effective techniques. This approach aligns with sustainable development goals and contributes to improved waste management practices.