Search Results (1,390)

The rapid demand for sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions has prompted the pursuit of eco-friendly electrode materials. Biomass-derived carbons from food waste offer a promising pathway to meet this need by combining waste valorization, environmental benefits, and high electrochemical performance. This review highlights that food waste biomass is an effective and inexpensive source of precursors for producing high-performance carbon materials for supercapacitors. Food waste, which includes fruit peels and vegetable residues, cereal husks, and oilseed residues, is a good source of lignocellulosic components, heteroatoms, and structural features that determine the electrochemical characteristics of the derived carbons. These wastes produce hierarchically porous carbons with high surface areas (>1500 m² g⁻¹) on pyrolysis and activation that provide superior ion transport, wettability and pseudocapacitive behaviour. Their electrochemical performance includes capacitances up to 520 F g⁻¹ and energy densities of 35–70 Wh kg⁻¹ in optimized systems, particularly under extended voltage windows or in hybrid supercapacitor configurations, and high cycling stability is equal to or even better than traditional carbons such as activated carbon and graphene. Additionally, biomass valorization contributes to a high level of greenhouse gas capture, decreases landfill, and correlates with the idea of a circular economy. The commercialization potential of biomass-based supercapacitors is supported by recent developments in AI-based optimization, combined with scalable synthesis methods, which would support ecologically, economically, and technologically sustainable energy storage on a large scale. Full article

Piezo-enhanced photocatalysis is progressively considered an eco-friendly technology for contaminant removal, harvesting not only solar energy but also mechanical vibrations found in nature. Multiferroic materials present a coupled effect of various properties and can potentially increase the applicability of this process. In this study, Cr- doped bismuth ferrite thin film was deposited on SrTiO₃ substrate by HiPIMS, and its photo-, piezo-, and piezo-photocatalytic efficiencies in Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation were analyzed. The highest removal percentage was found under the simultaneous exposure of visible light and mechanical vibrations, reaching 86.2% after 180 min. The calculated efficiencies for photo- and piezocatalysis were 12.2% and 83.7%, respectively. The rate constant (k) for piezo-photocatalysis was 16.1 times higher than that found during photocatalytic experiments. To assess the contribution of each reactive species to the decomposition process, different reagents were added to the Rhodamine B contaminated solution. The results revealed that when p-benzoquinone was used, the degradation efficiency declined significantly from 86.2% to 37.6%, suggesting that superoxide radicals (O₂^•−) play a key role in decomposing RhB molecules. The structural, chemical, optical, and ferroelectric changes caused by the catalytic processes were analyzed and linked to the proposed degradation mechanisms. The poor photocatalytic efficiency was linked to an improper band structure and an improper polarization orientation of the ferroelectric domains in the as-deposited film. The degradation mechanisms in piezo-photocatalysis were driven partly by the band bending caused by mechanical vibrations and partly by the reorientation of the induced polarization of the domains in the unstrained film. Full article

The field of nanoparticle-based biotechnology has undergone substantial advancement, characterized by progress in targeted drug delivery systems, the development of innovative diagnostic and imaging platforms, the expanded adoption of environmentally sustainable (“green”) synthesis approaches, and an increasing emphasis on the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and nanorobotics. Conventional nanoparticle synthesis often involves toxic reducing agents; however, recent advances promote eco-friendly green synthesis methods utilizing biological systems such as bacteria, fungi, algae, yeast, plants, and actinomycetes. These biological approaches are safe, sustainable, cost-effective, and capable of producing highly stable Nanoparticles (NPs). The interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems is crucial for developing intracellular and subcellular drug delivery technologies with minimal toxicity, governed by nano–bio interface mechanisms such as cellular translocation, surface wrapping, embedding, and internal attachment. Key factors influencing NP behavior include morphology, size, surface area, surface charge, and ligand chemistry. Magnetic nanoparticles, particularly iron-based forms, exhibit unique superparamagnetic properties that are strongly influenced by particle size, as explained by the Néel relaxation mechanism, in which thermal energy induces flipping of magnetic moments. Nanoparticles demonstrate diverse modes of action, including antimicrobial activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and plant growth promotion. NP performance and biological effects are strongly dependent on their size, shape, dosage, and concentration. This critical review article aims to elucidate evolution, classification, preparation methods, and multifaceted applications of nanoparticles Full article

Solid-state fermentation (SSF) is a pivotal biotechnology in the circular economy, leveraging agri-food industrial waste and byproducts to produce high-value bioproducts while minimizing organic waste. By aligning with sustainability goals and zero-waste principles, SSF enables the production of enzymes, bioactive compounds, and secondary metabolites for food, agriculture, and biomedical applications. Recent advancements have optimized critical parameters, including substrate selection, culture conditions, and scalable bioreactor designs, enhancing process efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Despite progress, challenges persist in maximizing production yields and fostering industrial adoption. Addressing these hurdles, particularly through integrated environmental and techno-economic analyses, is essential to solidify SSF’s role as a sustainable and competitive bioprocessing method. This review analyzes the latest advances in SSF, including the valorization of food and agro-industrial wastes, innovative bioreactor designs, microbial engineering for more efficient strains, bioenergy production and its integration into biorefineries, and contributions to the circular bioeconomy. Thus, SSF emerges as a key technology in sustainable industrial biotechnology, offering eco-friendly alternatives and promoting a more efficient production model. Full article

Hybrid rocket technologies are gaining recognition as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional propulsion systems. Utah State University’s Propulsion Research Laboratory has developed a High-Performance Green Hybrid Propulsion (HPGHP) technology, leveraging 3D-printed ABS fuel for reliable, low-energy ignition. Among tested materials, only ABS shows suitable electrical-breakdown properties for arc ignition. Unfortunately, due to the proprietary formulations in commercial ABS blends, and its limited use as a rocket-propellant, related composition and combustion data are limited. This study uses spectroscopic evaluation and bomb calorimetry to estimate material compositions, enthalpies of formation, and combustion energies for multiple commercially available 3-D print feed stock ABS types, finding minimal differences amongst the samples tested. Based on these test results, “representative” ABS properties including chemical formula, mean molecular weight, enthalpy of formation, and Higher Heating Value, is recommended. Follow-on tests with 5 alternative, commonly used, 3D-printable thermoplastic feed stocks demonstrate that ABS has significantly higher energy content. This result supports ABS’s advantages and utility as a conveniently fabricated hybrid rocket fuel. Full article

To reduce food waste and mitigate health risks from accidentally consuming spoiled food, freshness-indicating technologies are increasingly demanded. However, conventional colorimetric-based freshness-indicating packaging is limited by instability, subtle color changes, and complex production processes. This study presents a curcumin-based ink suitable for eco-friendly polylactic acid (PLA) food packaging films enabling real-time shrimp freshness monitoring via integrated intelligent packaging. The ink comprised curcumin as the indicator, ethyl cellulose (EC) and polyvinyl butyral (PVB) as binders, and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) to regulate permeability. Excellent printability was demonstrated by fineness, initial dryness and fluidity tests. It also demonstrated good thixotropic, viscosity, and flow curve properties. Printing minimally affected the PLA films’ mechanical and barrier properties. The indicator label showed high sensitivity, rapid response, and excellent reversibility to ammonia vapor. Practical application in monitoring shrimp spoilage at 25 °C and 4 °C revealed a strong correlation between the distinct color transition of the label and the increase in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content and pH value, providing a reliable visual warning before obvious spoilage signs appeared. This work provides a viable integrated indicator packaging strategy for developing intelligent packaging, offering significant potential to reduce food waste and enhance supply chain transparency for perishable goods. Full article

Red- and near-infrared (NIR)-emissive quantum dots (QDs) hold great promise in optoelectronic devices, sensors, and biomedicine owing to their advantages of low optical scattering, deep-tissue penetration, and compatibility with advanced photonic technologies. However, the toxicity of conventional cadmium (Cd)- and lead (Pb)-based QDs has led to growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of sustainable classes of red/NIR-emissive QDs, including indium phosphide (InP), I-III-VI chalcogenides (CuInS₂, AgInSe, and so on), group-IV (Si, Ge, and SiGe) nanocrystals, and carbon-based QDs (graphene QDs or carbon dots). InP QDs are leading candidates for display technologies due to their high efficiencies and narrow bandwidths in emission properties, enabled by advanced core/shell engineering. In contrast, I-III-VI chalcogenides, group-IV, and carbon-based QDs offer advantages for biocompatible NIR bioimaging, photothermal therapy, and silicon photonics integration. We discuss synthesis strategies for achieving long-wavelength emission, the mechanisms of red/NIR photoluminescence (PL), and representative applications in displays, sensors, and bioimaging. Finally, we outline the remaining challenges, such as large-scale manufacturing and long-term stability, which should be addressed for commercial and clinical viability. Full article

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) plays a vital role as an eco-friendly oxidizer, extensively used in environmental cleanup, energy transformation, and organic production. Nonetheless, the conventional method of creating anthraquinones is intricate, resulting in significant energy and ecological costs, which calls for the development of more eco-friendly and efficient substitute technologies. The article methodically examines the reaction processes and methods for improving efficiency in photocatalytic H₂O₂ generation in the past few years. This review summarizes the design principles and key structural features of various novel catalytic materials, focusing on light absorption, charge separation and migration, surface redox reactions, and enhanced mass transfer. Approaches such as expanding the range of bandgap absorption, building conjugated structures, and incorporating metal nanoclusters can significantly enhance the efficiency of light absorption. In the charge separation process, constructing built-in electric fields at the interfaces of heterojunctions, homojunctions, and Schottky junctions is crucial for improving reaction efficiency. Additionally, defect engineering may encourage targeted carrier movement and minimize recombination. The review highlights the latest advancements in enhancing selectivity and reducing H₂O₂ breakdown in surface redox reactions, achieved by regulating active sites, introducing new functional groups, and developing dual-channel reaction pathways. Furthermore, constructing three-phase interfaces, regulating asymmetric wettability, and designing cyclic/flow reactors provide innovative engineering solutions to address the challenges of insufficient oxygen supply and large-scale continuous production. Ultimately, the potential for producing H₂O₂ in photocatalytic systems is detailed. Full article

Fermentation is a promising sustainable and ecofriendly alternative for producing high-added-value chemicals such as 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BDO). The emergence of process analytical technology (PAT) tools, combined with advances in chemometrics, enables real-time process monitoring of product attributes, thereby ensuring quality. The aim of this study is to transfer near-infrared (NIR) partial least squares (PLS) models under two scenarios for the monitoring of 2,3-BDO production. PLS regression models initially developed under specific conditions were transferred across domains using dynamic orthogonal projection (DOP) and domain invariant (di)-PLS standard-free calibration transfer (CT) methods. For the 1st scenario involving model transfer from “mock samples” to “flask atline,” di-PLS was able to enhance NIR PLS model performance with improvements in RMSEC and RMSEP of 18 and 25% (2 g/L absolute error), respectively. In the 2nd scenario, however, DOP successfully transferred the model from the “flask atline” domain to the “500 mL bioreactor online” domain, achieving RMSEC and RMSEP values of 12 and 14 g/L, respectively. The feasibility of multivariate model transfer for PAT applications in complex fermentation systems from atline to online configurations using standard-free CT methods is demonstrated. This enhances model adaptability under varying conditions, fostering process scale-up and real-time monitoring. Full article

Background/Objectives: Beeswax, a complex natural secretion primarily derived from Apis mellifera and Apis cerana, has evolved from an ancient remedy into a multifunctional excipient and bioactive material in modern pharmaceutical sciences. This review evaluates its physicochemical properties, pharmaceutical applications, and emerging biomedical potential, while addressing current quality and regulatory challenges. Methods: A narrative review was conducted by analyzing literature on the chemical composition, functional properties, conventional uses, advanced drug delivery applications, pharmacological activities, and quality control of beeswax, emphasizing structural characteristics, formulation roles, and integration into innovative delivery technologies. Results: Beeswax is a lipid-based matrix composed of over 300 constituents, including wax esters, hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids, conferring thermoplasticity, biocompatibility, and structural stability. Traditionally, it functions as a stiffening agent, viscosity modifier, and emulsion stabilizer in topical formulations, forming an occlusive barrier that enhances skin hydration. In advanced systems, it serves as a solid lipid matrix in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), microspheres, and 3D-printed tablets, enabling controlled drug release and improved bioavailability of lipophilic compounds. It also exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities, while beeswax-derived policosanols show potential cardiovascular and gastroprotective benefits. However, concerns regarding paraffin adulteration and pesticide contamination highlight the need for stringent analytical and regulatory oversight. Conclusions: With rigorous quality control and sustainable sourcing, beeswax remains a versatile, eco-friendly material bridging traditional medicine and advanced pharmaceutical innovation. Full article

Transition towards sustainable and environmentally friendly practices within the field of chemistry and materials science has become essential in light of current environmental challenges. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in the various steps involved in producing chitosan derivatives, with particular emphasis on eco-friendly strategies. Key methodologies for chitin isolation from diverse natural sources, chitin deacetylation, and the chemical modification of chitosan are discussed, integrating green chemistry principles and eco-efficient processes. Advances in sustainable technologies that prioritize cost-effectiveness, safety, and performance are highlighted. The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative isolation and purification strategies, the adoption of continuous-flow processes, and greener synthetic approaches, such as click chemistry, are also explored. Overall, this work supports the adoption of a holistic approach for the development of chitosan derivatives, contributing to more sustainable and environmentally responsible materials and production processes. Full article

Currently, the resource wastage and safety hazards caused by fruit and vegetable spoilage are becoming increasingly prominent. Developing green, efficient, and non-toxic novel preservation materials has emerged as a hot spot in fruit and vegetable research. Based on this, this study utilized pomegranate peel as a raw material to prepare spherical multifunctional carbon dots (P-CDs) with an average particle size of 1.98 ± 0.58 nm through a one-step hydrothermal reaction. Subsequently, P-CDs were co-incorporated with L-cysteine (L-Cys) into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) matrix to construct a novel composite coating material with combined antibacterial, antioxidant, and preservation functions. Experimental results demonstrate that P-CDs exhibit outstanding antioxidant activity and antibacterial performance. Compared to PVA/CS film, the P-CDs/L-Cys/PVA/CS film exhibited a 6.55 MPa increase in tensile strength and significantly enhanced thermal stability. Furthermore, the incorporation of P-CDs and L-Cys markedly boosted the PVA/CS film’s antioxidant activity (97% for ABTS; 85.69% for DPPH), antibacterial performance, and ultraviolet (UV) shielding capability. Coating cherry tomatoes with the P-CDs/L-cysteine/PVA/CS composite extended their shelf life by 6 days. This composite coating material exhibits preliminary biocompatibility and eco-friendly properties, aligning with green sustainable development needs and offering a novel potential solution for food preservation technology, while its practical applicability to food safety requires further comprehensive verification. Full article

The demand for food has increased due to the world’s expanding population, which has also put pressure on vital resources like water, land, and nutrients. Therefore, in order to guarantee food security, it is imperative to establish alternative, sustainable, and dependable strategies. In recent decades, researchers have developed novel food production methods that collectively enhance the efficiency and sustainability of food systems. Among these, aquaponics stands out as an advanced and eco-friendly agricultural technology that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics. In this system, fish waste from the aquaculture unit is utilized as a nutrient medium in the hydroponic subsystem to grow edible plants. This review aims to assess the potential of aquaponics to produce high-quality fruits, vegetables, and fish while minimizing environmental impacts without relying on chemical fertilizers. The study focuses on system design, nutrient cycling, and productivity parameters to assess its feasibility under Potohar conditions. The expected outcome is to demonstrate that aquaponics can enhance food quality, conserve resources, and uplift the socio-economic status of farming communities by alleviating poverty. Full article

Green production technologies are pivotal for achieving agricultural ecological sustainability; however, farmers’ adoption intention remains sluggish under current policy frameworks. This study integrates the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to build a policy regulation–cognitive transformation–intention analytical framework. Based on 498 survey responses collected from June to October 2024 in Guizhou Province, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and the DEMATEL method were employed to quantify influence paths and causal attributes. (1) The results reveal that policy regulation, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, behavioral attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control all have notable direct positive impacts on farmers’ intention to adopt eco-friendly agricultural technologies. (2) Perceived usefulness plays a pivotal role in the direct impact path, while perceived ease of use exerts the strongest indirect influence, driving farmers’ ultimate adoption intentions by being transformed into perceived usefulness and positive attitudes. (3) Based on the causal network analysis, policy regulation is identified as the core source factor with the highest centrality, and it provides foundational support by driving key mediating factors such as behavioral attitudes, Subjective Norms, and perceived behavioral control. Consequently, this study proposes policy recommendations, such as optimizing policy formulation, enhancing the pragmatic perception of technological usefulness, dismantling behavioral and cognitive barriers, and eliminating resource bottlenecks, to provide decision-making references for the green transformation of agriculture. Full article

Cantaloupe melon (Cucumis melo L.) processing generates significant amounts of underutilized by-products that represent a promising source of bioactive compounds. Renowned for its abundance of β-carotene and phenolic antioxidants, it has garnered increased attention in recent years due to its nutritional profile. Melon side-streams, such as peels, seeds, and residual pulp, have emerged as valuable sources for sustainable functional ingredient development. This work provides updated insights into the phytochemical composition and bioactive properties of cantaloupe melon, with emphasis on the recovery and valorization of its by-products through conventional and emerging eco-friendly extraction technologies. These strategies are also discussed within a biorefinery perspective aimed at improving biomass utilization and promoting the development of value-added functional ingredients. Additionally, this review addresses how such approaches contribute to circular economy principles, supporting more sustainable and resource-efficient food production models. Full article