Search Results (906)

As the world moves toward a circular bioeconomy, starch nanoparticles (SNPs) have emerged as key components for sustainable development. Traditional production methods have historically relied on harsh acid treatments; however, their substantial environmental footprint has catalyzed a much-needed shift toward “green” chemistry. This review explores the rise of eco-friendly synthesis strategies—including high-power ultrasound, mechanical milling, nanoprecipitation, and enzymatic hydrolysis—and explains how these “clean” methods allow us to precisely define the nanoparticles’ properties. Furthermore, the functional applications of SNPs are analyzed, focusing on their role as reinforcing agents in biodegradable packaging, natural stabilizers in food emulsions, and encapsulation matrices for targeted nutrient delivery. By connecting recent breakthroughs, this work identifies technological synergy, the integration of physical and biological methods, as the most promising route to overcome current yield and scalability limitations. Finally, a future perspective is proposed, focusing on what is needed to move these innovations from the lab to industrial applications, ensuring they are safe, effective, and truly sustainable for the global food sector. Full article

This study aims to solve the problems of the high carbon emissions, poor compatibility, and insufficient storage stability of conventional polymer–modified bitumen (PMB). A novel High–Modulus Polyurethane Prepolymer (HM–PU) bitumen modifier was independently prepared to explore its modification effect and optimal application parameters. Experimental results show that the optimal isocyanate group (NCO) content and dosage of the HM–PU modifier are both 5%. The thermal stability and high– and low–temperature performance of modified bitumen are significantly enhanced, and HM–PU exhibits excellent compatibility with base bitumen (BA). This work innovatively synthesizes the HM–PU modifier and clarifies its physicochemical modification mechanism via macroscopic performance tests, thermal analysis, and microscopic characterization, providing a new strategy for the development and application of eco–friendly bitumen modifiers. Full article

In recent years, synergistic effects between inorganic clay minerals (e.g., montmorillonite, sepiolite, kaolinite) and bio-based flame retardants (e.g., chitosan-based, lignin-based, phytate-based) have achieved certain progress in the area of polymer flame retardancy. The effects of bio-based flame retardants are exerted through mechanisms such as catalytic char generation and vapour-phase hindrance. However, they have limitations when used alone, including insufficient thermal stability and the need for a high dosage. Inorganic clays form physical barriers through their layered or tubular structures. The high thermal stability of these structures suppresses heat and mass transfer, thereby offsetting the shortcomings of bio-based flame retardants. This synergistic combination greatly improves the flame retardancy of polymer composites, often strengthening their mechanical performance in the process. It therefore offers great potential for the design of multifunctional, eco-friendly flame-retardant polymer composites. Nevertheless, a systematic review of the synergistic mechanisms, fabrication approaches and application progress of different inorganic clay minerals when combined with various bio-based flame retardants is still lacking. Therefore, this article offers a comprehensive review of the current developments of synergistic systems that incorporate various primary clays, such as sepiolite and montmorillonite, with bio-based flame retardants for usage in polymers. Before this, the synergistic flame-retardant mechanism and the key preparation techniques of the composite system were explained in detail. Finally, this article puts forward solutions to the current challenges and sets out prospects for innovation in the designing of flame-retardant materials and the optimisation of processes. The aim is to promote the sustainable growth of efficient, eco-friendly flame-retardant materials. Full article

This study examines the effectiveness of an innovative solar-electric paddy winnowing machine titled “Synergy of Solar and Electric Power”. Conducted in the agricultural hubs of Barangay Tagbongabong and Barangay Lemon in the Philippines, the project utilized a multi-stakeholder collaboration involving small-scale farmers, students, faculty, and technical experts. Findings revealed significant improvements in operational efficiency and reduced labor requirements. Modularity and Ergonomics received the highest evaluation ratings (3.64), highlighting a user-centric design. The study concludes that this hybrid system provides a practical, eco-friendly solution for advancing sustainable agricultural mechanization in resource-limited settings. Full article

The study investigated the tensile strength and elongation properties of abaca fiber-reinforced polymer (AFRP) composites after varying durations of seawater soaking, with a focus on their potential for reinforcing fiber-optic cables. It aims to bridge industrial technology education, experiential learning, and green technology by evaluating abaca fiber as a sustainable alternative to synthetic aramid yarn. Conducted at Caraga State University, Cabadbaran Campus (CSUCC), the research utilized a quasi-experimental product development design involving industrial technology students and instructors. Tensile strength testing and comparative analysis were performed on abaca fiber samples (A, B, and C) subjected to different seawater soaking durations. Results show that soaking time significantly affects the fiber strength, with Sample A achieving the highest tensile strength (5631.5 MPa) and Sample C the lowest (1679.8 MPa). Findings indicate that prolonged exposure to seawater weakens abaca fiber, emphasizing the need for controlled treatment to optimize its industrial applications. This study emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning in industrial technology education, promoting critical thinking and technical skills while underscoring sustainability. The research advocates for eco-friendly materials in industrial applications and highlights the potential of abaca fiber composites. Future studies should investigate pre-treatment methods to enhance fiber durability, assess the long-term environmental performance, and conduct large-scale pilot testing to evaluate commercial viability. By integrating sustainable innovations into industrial technology education, this study contributes to advancing natural fiber composites for manufacturing and telecommunications infrastructure. Full article

Sustainability in higher education plays a crucial role in shaping future professionals with an eco-conscious mindset. This study focuses on developing and simulating a portable solar food dehydrator as a practical application of sustainability principles in technology education. By integrating sustainability into the curriculum, this research enhances students’ technical skills while promoting the use of renewable energy and effective food preservation methods. Furthermore, the project aligns with green campus initiatives by encouraging energy-efficient practices and reducing food waste. This study emphasizes the significance of education for sustainable development by offering learners hands-on experience in designing eco-friendly solutions, promoting innovation, and equipping them to contribute to a more sustainable future. A food dehydrator is a device that removes moisture from food to aid in its preservation, utilizing a heat source and airflow to reduce its water content. The researchers used two methods to dehydrate food: direct sunlight (sun drying) and indirect sunlight (solar drying). The study used a developmental research design. Simulations revealed that, with solar-powered electricity, the longer the drying time, the greater the reduction in the moisture content. This was evident in the eighth experiment, which was conducted on fruits and vegetables. While drying with direct sunlight, the same trends, albeit to a lesser extent, were observed in the reduction in the moisture content of the fruits and vegetables. These insights can inform future design improvements, making the products more visually appealing and distinctive, thereby enhancing their attractiveness and novelty. Full article

Play is considered the primary activity of children, and toys are their essential tools. However, the toy industry extends beyond children, constituting a significant economic sector with annual revenues exceeding one hundred billion dollars and generating substantial environmental consequences. These include resource consumption, pollution during manufacturing, energy use, consumables during operation, and waste generation at the end of the product’s life cycle. This research presents a study of the state of the art of ecodesign in the toy sector and its potential within this field. Through the analysis of the available scientific literature and the expertise of the Toy Technology Institute (AIJU), experiences from companies in the sector have been identified and classified according to the ecodesign strategy wheel. Simultaneously, a survey of industry stakeholders compared the current situation with that of 30 years ago. The results reveal perceptual progress that is uneven across dimensions, with the strongest advances in materials and production, moderate gains in distribution and end-of-life strategies, and limited improvement in product durability, while innovation in new product concepts shows the highest growth. Correlation analyses indicate that experience and professional background influence how sustainability progress is perceived. Although most improvements have been motivated by cost reduction and regulatory compliance rather than environmental awareness, recent trends reflect a growing corporate commitment to ecological innovation. For consumers, it remains essential to overcome misconceptions about eco-friendly toys, while companies must continue to invest in new materials, technologies, and design strategies that support the transition toward circular and long-lasting toy products. Full article

Flotation is a fundamental unit operation in mineral processing; however, achieving high selectivity while reducing the environmental impact of reagents remains a major challenge in phosphate ore beneficiation. Conventional depressants often exhibit limited selectivity and may pose environmental concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This study reports, for the first time, the application of starch nanostructures derived from potato pulp processing residues as a depressant in phosphate flotation, representing an innovative and eco-friendly approach. An exploratory and experimental methodology was adopted, including nanostarch synthesis via acid hydrolysis followed by centrifugation and sonication, as well as comprehensive physicochemical characterization. The primary objective was to evaluate the selective depressant performance of the nanomaterial in apatite–calcite flotation systems. The synthesized nanostructures exhibited particle diameters ranging from 179 to 443.6 nm. Microflotation tests conducted in a Hallimond tube using pure mineral samples under alkaline conditions (pH ≈ 9), at a depressant dosage of 500 mg/L and in combination with a plant-based fatty acid collector, revealed a pronounced selectivity window, resulting in an approximately 77% difference in flotation recovery between apatite and calcite. These findings demonstrate that nanostarch derived from agro-industrial residues is a promising, biodegradable, and sustainable depressant capable of enhancing selectivity in phosphate flotation. The results contribute to the advancement of greener mineral processing Technologies, although Further studies are required to elucidate the underlying interaction mechanisms. Full article

In the context of the circular economy, the valorization of natural biomolecules from by-products has recently represented a major goal in health promotion. From this perspective, this study examined the antioxidant potential of Sicilian white grape pomace from the Pinot Gris variety, using subcritical water extraction as an eco-friendly and innovative method to recover bioactive compounds. Different extraction parameters allowed for comparing the potential of various fractions. Among these, the Subcritical Water Extract obtained after 5 min at 160 °C (SWE^160.1) was rich in gallic acid and protocatechuic acid, as evidenced by characterization with UHPLC-Q Exactive Orbitrap-HRMS system. SWE^160.1 showed efficacious antioxidant activity, as confirmed by DPPH assay and total polyphenol and flavonoid content. Interestingly, SWE^160.1 displayed cytotoxic activity in tumor cell lines, while preserving the viability of non-tumor bronchial epithelial cells. Specifically, SWE^160.1 protected these cells from exogenous oxidative stress, reducing the ROS levels and activating Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response. Surprisingly, upregulation of antioxidant enzymes (HO-1 and SOD-2) induced by SWE^160.1 was maintained in the presence of lipopolysaccharide, indicating a specific involvement of SWE^160.1 in the anti-inflammatory response. Finally, SWE^160.1 was also able to limit the formation of stress granules following acute stress, thereby supporting its potential to maintain cellular homeostasis. Overall, this study highlights the potential of grape pomace as a source of active molecules to prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Full article

This study examines the effects of digital sustainability orientation on consumers’ responses, with a focus on the roles of digital green innovation and consumer environmental consciousness in shaping green brand advocacy in social media marketing. Drawing on the Resource-Based View, Dynamic Capability perspective, and Signaling theory, the study proposes that sustainability-oriented digital strategies are more effective when translated into visible, credible forms of digital green innovation. Using the quantitative research design, data were collected from a sample of 300 Saudi Arabian consumers who interact with eco-friendly brands and sustainability-related content on digital platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok. The study used purposive and convenience sampling to ensure that participants were aware of sustainability communication online. Data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the measurement and structural models and evaluate the hypotheses. The results show that the direct positive effect of digital sustainability orientation on digital green innovation is high, but there is no direct effect on green brand advocacy. However, digital green innovation fully mediates this relationship, making the importance of tangible innovation even greater in turning sustainability intentions into consumer support. Moreover, consumer environmental consciousness plays a significant moderating role in the relationship between digital sustainability orientation and green brand advocacy, suggesting that the more environmentally conscious consumers are, the more responsive they are to sustainability-driven digital strategies. The study contributes to the available literature on digital sustainability and green marketing by showing that being sustainability-oriented is not enough to encourage consumer advocacy without having credible innovation. Practically speaking, the findings show that organizations must pay attention to innovation-based sustainability initiatives and develop genuine digital communication strategies to attract environmentally conscious consumers. Ultimately, the research serves as a great reminder of the importance of integrating digital innovation, sustainability practices, and consumer engagement as key drivers of strong green brand advocacy. Full article

With the steady progress of the global energy transition and the pursuit of “dual carbon” goals, Offshore Carbon Sequestration (OCS) has emerged as a pivotal strategic pathway within Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) initiatives aimed at mitigating climate warming. Nevertheless, the drilling of OCS injection wells faces severe challenges, including narrow geological pressure windows, high risks of shallow geohazards, stringent environmental protection standards, and prohibitive construction costs. Riserless Mud Recovery (RMR) technology, as a novel and eco-friendly deepwater drilling technique, provides innovative technical support for OCS by establishing a closed-loop seafloor circulation system that achieves dual-gradient pressure control and “near-zero discharge” of drilling fluids. This paper systematically reviews the development history and technical principles of RMR. By integrating the specific requirements of OCS injection well drilling—such as wellbore integrity, environmental protection, and shallow hazard mitigation—the study provides an in-depth analysis of the application potential of RMR in drilling CO₂ injection wells within shallow formations. Furthermore, it demonstrates the engineering feasibility of RMR across technical, environmental, and economic dimensions. Building on this analysis, the paper discusses current technical challenges regarding key equipment research and development, adaptability to complex operating conditions, enhancement of intelligent control systems, and the establishment of technical standards. It also outlines the prospects for the integrated development of RMR with emerging fields, including hydrate-based carbon sequestration, intelligent drilling and completion, and carbon sequestration in far-reaching deep-sea areas. The research indicates that RMR technology can effectively resolve the dual constraints of cost control and environmental protection in OCS drilling. With breakthroughs in critical hardware, such as high-displacement subsea lift pumps, and the deepening of cross-disciplinary integration, RMR is poised to become an essential technical pillar in the field of offshore carbon sequestration. Full article

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the multiple factors influencing sunscreen efficacy, integrating studies published between 2016 and 2026. Beyond the type and concentration of UV filters, sunscreen performance is strongly affected by formulation design, photostability, environmental exposure, and user application practices. Formulation strategies involving emulsion systems, excipients, solubilization methods, and encapsulation technologies directly influence sun protection factor (SPF), cosmetic acceptability, and safety. Recent advances, including nanoparticle-based carriers, hybrid organic–inorganic systems, and antioxidant-enriched formulations, have shown potential to improve photostability, broaden UV protection, and reduce systemic absorption and environmental impact. However, inadequate application and insufficient reapplication remain major limitations to real-world photoprotection. In addition, differences in skin type, age, and lifestyle reinforce the need for more personalized sunscreen approaches. Growing concerns regarding the environmental effects of UV filters also highlight the importance of sustainable formulations and stricter regulatory policies. Overall, optimizing sunscreen efficacy requires not only technological innovation but also improved public education, transparent labeling, and user adherence. Future research should focus on multifunctional, eco-friendly, and user-centered sunscreens capable of providing effective and sustainable photoprotection. Full article

Microalgae-based biostimulants are gaining increasing interest worldwide for promoting sustainable agriculture. The environmental risks associated with synthetic agrochemicals can be mitigated by using microalgae to enhance crop yield and quality. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an herbaceous plant and ranks among the most popular seed spices worldwide. It is characterized by a low germination rate and poor seedling establishment, which negatively impact overall crop yield. To address these challenges, the present study investigates the potential of Chlorococcum sp. aqueous extract as a sustainable and cost-effective solution to overcome cumin seed dormancy and enhance germination. Results showed that Chlorococcum sp. exhibits a notably rapid growth rate (0.45 day⁻¹) and high biomass productivity (1.51 g/L/day). Additionally, the biochemical composition of the extract revealed a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols (63.46%), flavonoids (29.36%), and Indole-3-acetic acid (5.38%), which make it an eco-friendly biostimulant for agricultural applications. Regarding germination, a single seed treatment with doses of 0.5 g/L and 1 g/L was efficient in achieving final germination percentages of 100% and 96.66%, respectively, and significantly increased the seedling vigor index and photosynthetic pigment content. Furthermore, these concentrations stimulated the synthesis and accumulation of key primary metabolites, including proteins and polysaccharides, while increasing phenolic and flavonoid levels compared to the control, suggesting enhanced growth and improved antioxidant defenses against environmental stressors. Overall, these findings highlight that Chlorococcum sp. aqueous extract serves as an innovative biological approach to overcoming cumin seed dormancy and enhancing germination, offering an alternative and sustainable solution to conventional synthetic fertilizers. Full article

To solve the problem of mechanical entrainment and slime coating of fine sericite and chlorite hindering the flotation separation of gold-bearing pyrite in low-grade gold ores, ethylenediamine-N,N’-disuccinic acid (EDDS) was innovatively used as a selective and eco-friendly depressant. A systematic set of tests, including micro-flotation, artificial mixed mineral flotation, zeta potential measurement, adsorption capacity test, solution chemistry analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization, was conducted to explore its flotation performance and action mechanism. The results showed that pH 8 and 200 mg/L EDDS were the optimal conditions under which EDDS reduced the recoveries of sericite and chlorite to ~20% and ~15%, respectively, while restoring pyrite recovery to ~80% with a notable upgrade in concentrate grade. EDDS exhibited strong chemical adsorption on sericite and chlorite via chelating their active Al/Mg sites, significantly enhancing their hydrophilicity. In contrast, it only undergoes weak physical adsorption on pyrite, with negligible observed influence on its hydrophobicity and the adsorption of (sodium butyl xanthate) SBX. At pH 8, EDDS mainly existed as HEDDS³⁻ (~90%), whose triple negative charge strengthened electrostatic interaction with positively charged gangue surfaces, boosting selective adsorption. This study confirms EDDS as a highly efficient depressant for pyrite–sericite/chlorite flotation under pure mineral and artificial mixed mineral conditions. Since the present study is based on pure minerals and artificial mixtures, further validation using real ore samples is still required before practical industrial application. This research expands the application of EDDS in mineral processing and provides a novel eco-friendly technical approach for the laboratory-scale separation of fine gold-bearing pyrite from low-grade gold ores with high clay gangue content. Full article

Penaeuschinensis is an economically important seafood species valued for its nutritional quality and global market demand. However, its high perishability makes it highly susceptible to rapid quality deterioration during refrigerated storage, primarily due to microbial proliferation, enzymatic activity, and oxidative reactions. To address these challenges, this study proposes a sustainable chitosan-based coating incorporating a citric acid–choline chloride deep eutectic agent (CA-DEA) as an innovative preservation strategy for shrimp. The composite coating demonstrated markedly enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial activities compared to CTS or CA-DEA alone. The CTS-CA-DEA coating effectively preserved shrimp quality over 8 days of refrigerated storage, as evidenced by reduced discoloration, moisture loss, and textural degradation during storage. These quality improvements were accompanied by greater stability of key biochemical indicators, including peroxide value, pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, and protein content, indicating a slower progression of spoilage reactions. Electronic nose analysis further revealed a reduced generation of lipid- and protein-derived volatile compounds associated with shrimp deterioration, consistent with the observed physicochemical changes. Based on the accepted TVB-N acceptability threshold (30–35 mg/100 g), the CTS-CA-DEA treatment prolonged the estimated acceptable refrigerated storage period to approximately 7 days, compared with only about 4 days for the uncoated control, clearly demonstrating the beneficial effect of the composite antimicrobial coating. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the CTS-CA-DEA coating is an eco-friendly preservation strategy that integrates barrier protection, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant defense, thereby extending refrigerated shelf life while maintaining shrimp quality. Full article