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Search Results (389)

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Keywords = black polymers

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29 pages, 6921 KiB  
Review
The Advances in Polymer-Based Electrothermal Composites: A Review
by Xiaoli Wu, Ting Yin, Wenyan Liu, Libo Wan and Yijun Liao
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152047 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 305
Abstract
Polymer-based electrothermal composites (PECs) have been increasingly attracting attention in recent years owing to their flexibility, low density, and high electrothermal efficiency. However, although a large number of reviews have focused on flexible and transparent film heaters as well as polymer-based conductive composites, [...] Read more.
Polymer-based electrothermal composites (PECs) have been increasingly attracting attention in recent years owing to their flexibility, low density, and high electrothermal efficiency. However, although a large number of reviews have focused on flexible and transparent film heaters as well as polymer-based conductive composites, comprehensive reviews of polymer-based electrothermal composites remain limited. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of recent advancements in polymer-based electrothermal materials. This review begins with an introduction to the electrothermal theoretical basis and the research progress of PECs incorporating various conductive fillers, such as graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), carbon black (CB), MXenes, and metal nanowires. Furthermore, a critical discussion is provided to emphasize the factors influencing the electrothermal conversion efficiency of these composites. Meanwhile, the development of multi-functional electrothermal materials has been also summarized. Finally, the application progress, future prospects, limitations, and potential directions for PEC are discussed. This review aims to serve as a practical guide for engineers and researchers engaged in the development of polymer-based electrothermal composites. Full article
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19 pages, 3672 KiB  
Article
Assessing Microplastic Contamination and Depuration Effectiveness in Farmed Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas)
by Cláudia Moura, Diogo M. Silva, Francisca Espincho, Sabrina M. Rodrigues, Rúben Pereira, C. Marisa R. Almeida, Sandra Ramos and Vânia Freitas
Environments 2025, 12(8), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12080254 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 453
Abstract
This study assessed the presence, abundance, and characteristics of microplastics (MPs) in farmed Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and evaluated the efficacy of depuration in reducing MPs under laboratory-controlled and commercial conditions. Oysters cultivated in the Lima estuary (NW Portugal) were sampled [...] Read more.
This study assessed the presence, abundance, and characteristics of microplastics (MPs) in farmed Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and evaluated the efficacy of depuration in reducing MPs under laboratory-controlled and commercial conditions. Oysters cultivated in the Lima estuary (NW Portugal) were sampled in autumn and winter, along with adjacent surface water and sediment, to investigate potential contamination sources. MP concentrations in oysters varied temporally, with higher levels in October 2023 (0.48 ± 0.34 MPs g−1 ww) than in February 2024 (0.09 ± 0.07 MPs g−1 ww), while the environmental levels remained stable across dates. All MPs were fibres, predominantly transparent, followed by blue and black. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed cellulose and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as dominant polymers in oysters and environmental samples. No clear correlation was found between MPs in oysters and surrounding compartments. Laboratory depuration reduced MPs by 78% within 48 h, highlighting its potential as a mitigation strategy. However, depuration was less effective under commercial conditions, possibly due to lower initial contamination levels. These findings suggest that oysters may act as a vector for human exposure to MPs via seafood consumption. While depuration shows promise in reducing contamination, further research is needed to optimise commercial protocols and enhance the safety of aquaculture products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Plastic Contamination)
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14 pages, 4216 KiB  
Article
Redox-Active Anthraquinone-1-Sulfonic Acid Sodium Salt-Loaded Polyaniline for Dual-Functional Electrochromic Supercapacitors
by Yi Wang, Enkai Lin, Ze Wang, Tong Feng and An Xie
Gels 2025, 11(8), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080568 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 227
Abstract
Electrochromic (EC) devices are gaining increasing attention for next-generation smart windows and low-power displays due to their reversible color modulation, low operating voltage, and flexible form factors. Recently, electrochromic energy storage devices (EESDs) have emerged as a promising class of multifunctional systems, enabling [...] Read more.
Electrochromic (EC) devices are gaining increasing attention for next-generation smart windows and low-power displays due to their reversible color modulation, low operating voltage, and flexible form factors. Recently, electrochromic energy storage devices (EESDs) have emerged as a promising class of multifunctional systems, enabling simultaneous energy storage and real-time visual monitoring. In this study, we report a flexible dual-functional EESD constructed using polyaniline (PANI) films doped with anthraquinone-1-sulfonic acid sodium salt (AQS), coupled with a redox-active PVA-based gel electrolyte also incorporating AQS. The incorporation of AQS into both the polymer matrix and the gel electrolyte introduces synergistic redox activity, facilitating bidirectional Faradaic reactions at the film–electrolyte interface and within the bulk gel phase. The resulting vertically aligned PANI-AQS nanoneedle films provide high surface area and efficient ion pathways, while the AQS-doped gel electrolyte contributes to enhanced ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability. The device exhibits rapid and reversible color switching from light green to deep black (within 2 s), along with a high areal capacitance of 194.2 mF·cm−2 at 1 mA·cm−2 and 72.1% capacitance retention over 5000 cycles—representing a 31.5% improvement over undoped systems. These results highlight the critical role of redox-functionalized gel electrolytes in enhancing both the energy storage and optical performance of EESDs, offering a scalable strategy for multifunctional, gel-based electrochemical systems in wearable and smart electronics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Gels for Sensing Devices and Flexible Electronics)
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19 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Influence of In Situ Polymerization on the Compressive Strength of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Recovered from Demolition Timber and Two Forest-Sourced Species: European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) and Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa)
by Emil Żmuda and Kamil Roman
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3439; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153439 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 164
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of in situ polymerization on the compressive strength of demolition-derived Scots pine, European beech, and black alder wood. The treatment applied was based on previously confirmed in situ polymerization systems in wood, which are known to lead to [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effect of in situ polymerization on the compressive strength of demolition-derived Scots pine, European beech, and black alder wood. The treatment applied was based on previously confirmed in situ polymerization systems in wood, which are known to lead to polymer formation and composite-like structures. In this study, we assumed similar behavior and focused on a mechanical evaluation of the modified wood. Three different polymer systems were applied to evaluate differences in performance. After modification, the compressive strength levels increased by 60% in beech, 119% in alder, and 150% in pine, with corresponding increases in density and weight percent gain (WPG). The highest relative improvement was observed in the least dense species, pine. The findings suggest that polymer treatment can significantly enhance the mechanical properties, likely due to the incorporation of polymer into the wood matrix; however, this inference is based on indirect physical evidence. Full article
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15 pages, 7465 KiB  
Article
Nanocomposite Polysulfone/CB Modified by Melt Extrusion and Solution Mixing for Enhanced Removal of Uremic Toxins
by Marlene Andrade-Guel, Christian J. Cabello-Alvarado, Sendar Daniel Nery-Flores, Gregorio Cadenas-Pliego, Carlos Avila-Orta, Marissa Pérez-Alvarez, Diego Martínez-Carrillo, Zoe V. Quiñones-Jurado and Luis Cedeño Caero
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3352; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143352 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 491
Abstract
In this study, polysulfone-based nanocomposites with carbon black (CB) nanoparticles were fabricated to evaluate their urea-removal properties. The nanocomposites were obtained using two different methods: solution mixing and melt extrusion. These materials were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which allowed for [...] Read more.
In this study, polysulfone-based nanocomposites with carbon black (CB) nanoparticles were fabricated to evaluate their urea-removal properties. The nanocomposites were obtained using two different methods: solution mixing and melt extrusion. These materials were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which allowed for the identification of the corresponding functional groups within the polysulfone polymer matrix. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed, confirming the amorphous structure of the polysulfone. The addition of modified carbon black shifted the most intense peak of the polysulfone. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed an increase in thermal stability with the addition of different concentrations of modified carbon black for solution-mixing method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the melt-extrusion method presented a better dispersion of the nanoparticles, since large agglomerates were not observed. Additionally, a urea adsorption study was conducted, obtaining removal percentages of 76% and 72% for the extrusion and solution-mixing methods, respectively. It was demonstrated that the nanocomposite can be used for up to five cycles without losing urea-removal efficiency, whereas the efficiency of pure polysulfone decreases as the number of cycles increases. Finally, the hemolysis test was performed, and the nanocomposites showed less than 1% hemolysis, indicating that the material is non-hemolytic. Full article
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14 pages, 4074 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of Biodegradable Polymer Blends Based on Chitosan
by Lyazzat Bekbayeva, Grigoriy A. Mun, Bayana B. Yermukhambetova, El-Sayed Negim, Galiya Irmukhametova, Khaldun M. Al Azzam, Sergey V. Nechipurenko, Sergey A. Efremov, Mubarak Yermaganbetov and Moshera Samy
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1853; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131853 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Despite its broad application due to its affordability, biodegradability, and natural antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, chitosan (CS) still exhibits limitations in mechanical strength and barrier effectiveness. Owing to its unique chemical characteristics, itaconic acid (IT) presents potential as a compatibilizing agent in polymeric [...] Read more.
Despite its broad application due to its affordability, biodegradability, and natural antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, chitosan (CS) still exhibits limitations in mechanical strength and barrier effectiveness. Owing to its unique chemical characteristics, itaconic acid (IT) presents potential as a compatibilizing agent in polymeric blend formulations. Biodegradable polymers composed of chitosan (CS), itaconic acid (IT), and starch (S) were synthesized using two polymerization methods. The first method involved grafting IT onto CS at varying ratios of IT (4%, 6%, and 8% wt.), using 1% v/v acetic acid/water as the solvent and potassium persulfate as the initiator. In the second approach, starch (S) was blended with the copolymer P(CS-g-IT) at concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5%, utilizing water as the solvent and glacial acetic acid as a catalyst. The resulting biodegradable films underwent characterization through FTIR, TGA, SEM, and mechanical property analysis. To further explore the effects of combining IT, starch, and carbon black, the blends, referred to as P[(CS-g-IT)-b-S], were also loaded with carbon black. This allowed for the evaluation of the materials’ physicomechanical properties, such as viscosity, tensile strength, elongation, and contact angle. The findings demonstrated that the presence of IT, starch, and carbon black collectively improved the films’ mechanical performance, physical traits, and biodegradability. Among the samples, the blended copolymer with 1% starch exhibited the highest mechanical properties, followed by the grafted copolymer with 8% IT and the blended copolymer mixed with carbon black at 7%. In contrast, the blended copolymer with 5% starch showed the highest hydrophilicity and the shortest degradation time compared to the grafted copolymer with 8% IT and the blended copolymer mixed with 7% carbon black. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Chemistry)
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27 pages, 3625 KiB  
Article
Effect of Synthetic Wax on the Rheological Properties of Polymer-Modified Bitumen
by Marek Iwański, Małgorzata Cholewińska and Grzegorz Mazurek
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133067 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 352
Abstract
The goal of this study is to evaluate how the inclusion of synthetic wax, added in 0.5% increments from 1.5% to 3.5%, affects the characteristics of PMB 45/80-65 (polymer-modified bitumen) during both short-term (RTFOT) and long-term (PAV) aging processes. Tests were carried out [...] Read more.
The goal of this study is to evaluate how the inclusion of synthetic wax, added in 0.5% increments from 1.5% to 3.5%, affects the characteristics of PMB 45/80-65 (polymer-modified bitumen) during both short-term (RTFOT) and long-term (PAV) aging processes. Tests were carried out to assess the fundamental properties of the binder, leading to the determination of the penetration index (PI) and the plasticity range (PR). The binder’s properties were examined at below-freezing operating temperatures, with creep stiffness measured using a bent beam rheometer (BBR) at −10 °C, −16° C, −22 °C, and −28 °C. The rheological properties of the asphaltenes were evaluated based on both linear and nonlinear viscoelasticity. The experimental study explored temperature effects on the rheological properties of composite materials using a DSR dynamic shear rheometer at 40 °C, 60 °C, and 80 °C over a frequency range of 0.005 to 10 Hz. The main parameters of interest were composite viscosity (η*) and zero shear viscosity (η0). Viscoelastic parameters, including the dynamic modulus (G*) and phase shift angle (δ), were determined, and Black’s curves were used to illustrate the relationship between these parameters, where G*/sinδ was determined. The MSCR test was employed to investigate the impact of bitumen on the asphalt mixture’s resistance to permanent deformation and to assess the degree and efficacy of asphalt modification. The test measured two parameters, irreversible creep compliance (Jnr) and recovery (R), under stress levels of 0.1 kPa (LVE) and 3.2 kPa (N-LVE). The Christensen–Anderson–Marasteanu model was used to describe the bitumen behavior during binder aging, as reflected in the rheological study results. Ultimately, this study revealed that synthetic wax influences the rheological properties of PMB 45/80-65 polymer bitumen. Specifically, it mitigated the stiffness reduction in modified bitumen caused by polymer degradation during aging at an amount less than 2.5% of synthetic wax. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Asphalt Materials (Second Volume))
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19 pages, 2049 KiB  
Article
Black Cumin Essential Oil as an Active Stabilization Component of Rapeseed Oil During Deep-Fat Model Heating
by Dominik Kmiecik, Aleksander Siger and Katarzyna Kuraszyk
Foods 2025, 14(13), 2238; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14132238 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 342
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of black cumin essential oils to reduce the degradation of rapeseed oil during heating. Rapeseed oil was heated without addition and with the addition of black cumin essential oil (200 ppm, 500 ppm, [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of black cumin essential oils to reduce the degradation of rapeseed oil during heating. Rapeseed oil was heated without addition and with the addition of black cumin essential oil (200 ppm, 500 ppm, and 1000 ppm), and with synthetic antioxidant TBHQ (200 ppm). The heating was carried out at 170 °C ± 10 °C for 6 h, in a deep-fat heating model. In all samples, changes in fatty acid profile, lipid-nutritional quality indices (PUFA/SFA ratio, atherogenicity index, thrombogenicity index, and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio), tocopherol and phytosterol content, total polar compound content, and triacylglycerol polymers were determined. The heating process led to oil degradation, which depended on the amount and type of additive used. The greatest changes were observed in the control sample (without additives). The addition of TBHQ or 200 ppm of black cumin essential oil reduced the adverse transformations to a similar level. Higher additions of black cumin essential oil led to a significant improvement in the quality of heated oils. The best results were obtained with the addition of 1000 ppm of black cumin essential oil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Foods)
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31 pages, 4369 KiB  
Article
Medicago Sativa Stems—A Multi-Output Integrated Biorefinery Approach
by Adrian Cătălin Puițel, George Bârjoveanu, Cătălin Dumitrel Balan and Mircea Teodor Nechita
Polymers 2025, 17(12), 1709; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17121709 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
This study presents an investigation on the potential of using one-year-old field-stored Medicago sativa (alfalfa) as a raw material for a multi-output biorefinery. The main objective was to fractionate the biomass into valuable components—crude protein, hemicellulose-derived polysaccharides, lignin, and cellulose—and to explore the [...] Read more.
This study presents an investigation on the potential of using one-year-old field-stored Medicago sativa (alfalfa) as a raw material for a multi-output biorefinery. The main objective was to fractionate the biomass into valuable components—crude protein, hemicellulose-derived polysaccharides, lignin, and cellulose—and to explore the latter’s suitability in papermaking. To this end, three pretreatment strategies (water, alkaline buffer, and NaOH solution) were applied, followed by soda pulping under varying severity conditions. Both solid and liquid fractions were collected and chemically characterized using FTIR, HPLC, and standardized chemical methods. Water-based pretreatment was most effective for protein extraction, achieving over 40% protein content in precipitated fractions. The harshest pulping conditions (20% NaOH, 160 °C, 60 min) yielded cellulose-rich pulp with high glucan content, while also facilitating lignin and hemicellulose recovery from black liquor. Furthermore, the pulps derived from alfalfa stems were tested for papermaking. When blended with old corrugated cardboard (OCC), the fibers enhanced tensile and burst strength by 35% and 70%, respectively, compared to OCC alone. These findings support the valorization of unexploited alfalfa deposits and suggest a feasible biorefinery approach for protein, fiber, and polymer recovery, aligned with circular economy principles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress on Lignocellulosic-Based Polymeric Materials)
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16 pages, 5881 KiB  
Article
High-Performance Carbon Black/Fe3O4/Epoxy Nanodielectrics for Electrostatic Energy Storage and Harvesting Solutions
by Sotirios Stavropoulos, Aikaterini Sanida and Georgios Psarras
Energies 2025, 18(12), 3147; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18123147 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 317
Abstract
The present study explores the energy storage and harvesting properties of nanocomposite systems reinforced with carbon black and magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4). The systems’ energy storage performance was evaluated under both AC and DC conditions to analyze the impact of [...] Read more.
The present study explores the energy storage and harvesting properties of nanocomposite systems reinforced with carbon black and magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4). The systems’ energy storage performance was evaluated under both AC and DC conditions to analyze the impact of temperature, DC charging voltage levels, and varying filler contents on the stored and recovered energy. The experimental findings demonstrated that these systems are capable of efficiently storing and releasing energy on demand via a rapid charge–discharge mechanism. Dynamic mechanical and dielectric analyses revealed significant enhancements in the storage modulus and the energy efficiency of these materials due to the synergistic effects of the nanoparticles and the interactions between them and the polymer matrix. The incorporation of the carbon black and magnetite nanoparticles improves the energy-storage capabilities, supported by augmented interfacial polarization phenomena, which facilitate charge migration and accumulation. These systems exhibit rapid charge and discharge behavior, making them suitable for applications requiring high power density and fast energy storage and recovery cycling. These findings underscore the aptitude of these nanocomposites for high-performance energy-storage solutions, emphasizing their adaptability to applications requiring both high energy density and efficient recovery in tandem with adequate thermomechanical performance. Full article
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19 pages, 4804 KiB  
Article
From Waste to Technological Products: Bioplastics Production from Proteins Extracted from the Black Soldier Fly
by Alessia Di Pasquale, Marina Zoccola, Ashish Mohod, Giulia Dalla Fontana, Anastasia Anceschi and Sara Dalle Vacche
Polymers 2025, 17(11), 1582; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111582 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 518
Abstract
The need to find sustainable solutions to conventional plastics has driven research into alternative materials, including bioplastics, which represent a promising option for reducing pollution and enhancing the value of renewable resources. In this study, bioplastics made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and proteins [...] Read more.
The need to find sustainable solutions to conventional plastics has driven research into alternative materials, including bioplastics, which represent a promising option for reducing pollution and enhancing the value of renewable resources. In this study, bioplastics made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and proteins extracted from the larvae of Black Soldier Fly (BSF), an insect capable of converting organic waste into high-value biomass, were produced and characterized. The proteins were obtained by hydrolysis of defatted BSF larvae with superheated water, avoiding harsh chemical reagents. Next, polymer films were fabricated by mixing PVA and hydrolyzed BSF proteins in different proportions and analyzed for morphological, physical-chemical, mechanical and biodegradability characteristics. The results obtained show that as the BSF protein content increases, the films show a reduction in thermal stability and mechanical properties, and also, they exhibit higher biodegradability, correlated with higher wettability, solubility and ability to absorb moisture. This research highlights the value of using organic waste-fed insects as a resource for bioplastic production, offering an alternative to traditional polymers and contributing to the transition to sustainable materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Value Polymer Materials from Waste Recovery and Recycling)
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16 pages, 2681 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the Fresh Latex Ratio on the Processing and Dynamic Properties of Bio-Coagulated Natural Rubber
by Jianwei Li, Yun Li, Li Ding, Honghai Huang, Tuo Dai, Liguang Zhao, Yingguang Xu, Fan Wu and Hongxing Gui
Polymers 2025, 17(11), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111435 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
Natural rubber is a widely used biological polymer material because of its excellent comprehensive performance. Nevertheless, the performance of domestic natural rubber cannot meet the requirements for high-end products such as aviation tires, which has become a constraint on the innovation and upgrading [...] Read more.
Natural rubber is a widely used biological polymer material because of its excellent comprehensive performance. Nevertheless, the performance of domestic natural rubber cannot meet the requirements for high-end products such as aviation tires, which has become a constraint on the innovation and upgrading of high-end manufacturing enterprises and the enhancement of global competitiveness in China. To solve the bottleneck problem of natural rubber processing technology, this study systematically analyzed the effects of different varieties of fresh latex ratios on the processing and dynamic properties of bio-coagulated natural rubber. By mixing PR107 and Reyan72059 fresh latex with Reyan73397 fresh latex according to proportion, the fresh latex was coagulated by enzyme-assisted microbials, and the effects of the fresh latex ratio on physical and chemical indexes, molecular weight distribution, vulcanization characteristics, processing properties, cross-link density and physical and mechanical properties of the natural rubber were analyzed. The results showed that the aging resistance of natural rubber coagulated with enzyme-assisted microbial decreased, and the aging resistance of natural rubber increased with the increase in the mixing ratio of PR107 and Reyan72059 fresh latex. The proportion of high molecular weight of the natural rubber coagulated with the enzyme-assisted microbial increased, and the fresh latex mixing had little effect on the molecular weight distribution curve. Under the carbon black formulation, the CRI of the enzyme-assisted microbial coagulated natural rubber compound was relatively larger. Under the same strain conditions, the H-3 compound (PR107:Reyan72059:Reyan73397 = 1:1:3) had the best viscoelasticity and the least internal resistance of rubber molecules. In addition, the cross-link density, tensile strength, elongation at break, and tear strength of H-3 vulcanized rubber were the largest, improved by 23.08%, 5.32%, 12.45% and 3.70% compared with the same H-2 vulcanized rubber. In addition, the heat generation performance was reduced by 11.86%, and the wear resistance improved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Additive Agents for Polymer Functionalization Modification)
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14 pages, 4014 KiB  
Article
Microplastics in Cronius ruber: Links to Wastewater Discharges
by Sofía Huelbes, May Gómez, Ico Martínez, Raül Triay-Portella, Miguel González-Pleiter and Alicia Herrera
Animals 2025, 15(10), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15101420 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 474
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in the ocean is a growing problem. It affects the entire ecosystem and, therefore, the species that inhabit it. Plastics can be filtered or ingested by organisms, entering and negatively affecting individuals. Among the populations affected are crustaceans. In previous studies, [...] Read more.
Microplastic pollution in the ocean is a growing problem. It affects the entire ecosystem and, therefore, the species that inhabit it. Plastics can be filtered or ingested by organisms, entering and negatively affecting individuals. Among the populations affected are crustaceans. In previous studies, fibers have been found mainly in the stomach contents of these animals, although other types, such as pellets, have also been found. This study examines the presence of microplastics in Cronius ruber, an invasive crab species in the Canary Islands, and investigates their potential links to nearby wastewater discharges. A total of 63 crabs were sampled from four beaches in Gran Canaria in 2021, and their stomach contents were analyzed through alkaline digestion, filtration, and micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (micro-FTIR). Microplastics were detected in 52% of individuals; the particles averaged 0.7 ± 0.5 mm in length, with an average of 1.73 ± 1.02 particles per crab. Fibers constituted 89% of the microplastics, with blue and black being the predominant colors. Rayon, commonly used in textiles, was the most frequently identified polymer (52%), highlighting the role of wastewater from laundry processes as a significant pollution source. Beaches close to unauthorized wastewater discharges, such as Anfi del Mar (n = 3) and El Puertillo (n = 32), showed the highest contamination levels, with a frequency of occurrence (FO) of microplastic particles of 67% and 58%, respectively. Playa de Las Nieves was the one with the lowest contamination level (n = 22), with a frequency of occurrence of microplastic particles of 41%. This is the first study to document microplastic ingestion in C. ruber, raising concerns about its ecological presence and the potential bioaccumulation of contaminants in marine ecosystems. Further research is essential to understand the long-term consequences of microplastic exposure on invasive species and their possible roles in pollutant transfer through food webs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecology and Conservation)
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24 pages, 1685 KiB  
Review
Characteristics, Distribution, and Sources of Atmospheric Microplastics in Southeast Asia: A Scoping Review
by Nur Nabila Abd Rahim, Patrick Wee Yao Peng, Nurul Farehah Shahrir, Wan Rozita Wan Mahiyuddin, Sharifah Mazrah Sayed Mohamed Zain and Rohaida Ismail
Atmosphere 2025, 16(5), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16050515 - 28 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1088
Abstract
This scoping review examines the distribution, sources, and characterization of atmospheric microplastics (AMPs) in Southeast Asia (SEA), following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A comprehensive search of Scopus and PubMed identified 58 relevant [...] Read more.
This scoping review examines the distribution, sources, and characterization of atmospheric microplastics (AMPs) in Southeast Asia (SEA), following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A comprehensive search of Scopus and PubMed identified 58 relevant articles, with 16 meeting the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate high microplastic (MP) concentrations in urban centres, notably in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, a pattern driven by rapid urbanisation, industrial emissions, textile production, and insufficient waste management. Predominant polymer types include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyester (PET), with fibres and black particles being the most common forms. Black particles, often linked to tire wear and vehicular emissions, underscore traffic pollution’s role in AMP distribution, while PET fibres reflect the influence of SEA’s textile industry. Geographic gaps were observed, with limited studies in countries such as Cambodia and Laos. The review highlights the need for standardised sampling and quantification methods to ensure data comparability and calls for expanded research into rural and coastal regions. Future studies should prioritise longitudinal investigations into the effects of chronic exposure on health; this is particularly relevant for nanoplastics (NPs) because of their greater potential for biological penetration. These insights form a crucial foundation for mitigating AMP pollution in SEA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicity of Persistent Organic Pollutants and Microplastics in Air)
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22 pages, 9601 KiB  
Article
Microplastics in the Typical Mulched Farmland of Sichuan Province: Characteristics That Vary Across Farming Scales and the Risk Significantly Contributed by Priority Polymers
by Yuqing Zhang, Shuyuan Liu, Cheng Gao, Jialiang Huang, Huan Liang, Li Zhang, Guangli Xiao and Yi Wu
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3516; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083516 - 14 Apr 2025
Viewed by 573
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) in agricultural soils pose risks to human health in their potential accumulation along the food chain, and their characteristics require further understanding to implement targeted measures. This study investigated the MP characteristics in typical mulching soils from different farming scales in [...] Read more.
Microplastics (MPs) in agricultural soils pose risks to human health in their potential accumulation along the food chain, and their characteristics require further understanding to implement targeted measures. This study investigated the MP characteristics in typical mulching soils from different farming scales in Sichuan Province, which is one of China’s key agricultural regions, and it also innovatively measured the ecological risk by incorporating size into assessments. The investigated sites showed average microplastic abundances of 19696.81 ± 13226.89, and these were dominated by small-sized ethylene–propylene copolymer (E/P), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE) particles in yellow-to-brown and black-to-shallow-gray soil. Size-considered evaluation suggested that most of the sites were at a high level of risk. It was found that microplastic pollution varies with farming scales. Larger-scale farming sites primarily received MPs from plastic mulching, while smaller-scale sites were likely affected by a range of non-agricultural sources. The risk assessment showed significant contributions from polyamide (PA) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). These results indicate that environmental management strategies should tailor source control measures according to agricultural scales and prioritize high-risk polymers, as well as that MP risk evaluations should include “size” along with “pollution load” and “chemical composition” to better reflect the impact of MPs on ecosystems. Full article
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