Search Results (410)

Bio-based lubricants are rapidly gaining prominence as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-derived counterparts, driven by their inherent biodegradability, low ecotoxicity, and strong alignment with global environmental and regulatory imperatives. Despite their promising tribological properties, their widespread adoption continues to confront significant challenges, particularly related to oxidative and thermal instability, cold-flow behavior, and cost competitiveness in demanding high-performance applications. This comprehensive review critically synthesizes the latest advancements in bio-based lubricant technology, spanning feedstock innovations, sophisticated chemical modification strategies, and the development of advanced additive systems. Notably, recent formulations demonstrate remarkable performance enhancements, achieving friction reductions of up to 40% and contributing to substantial CO₂ emission reductions, ranging from 30 to 60%, as evidenced by comparative life-cycle assessments and energy efficiency studies. Distinguishing this review from existing literature, this study offers a unique, holistic perspective by integrally analyzing global market trends, industrial adoption dynamics, and evolving regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union Eco-Label and the U.S. EPA Vessel General Permit, alongside technological advancements. This study critically assesses emerging methodologies for tribological evaluation and benchmark performance across diverse, critical sectors including automotive, industrial, and marine applications. By connecting in-depth technical innovations with crucial socio-economic and environmental considerations, this paper not only identifies key research gaps but also outlines a pragmatic roadmap for accelerating the mainstream adoption of bio-based lubricants, positioning them as an indispensable cornerstone of sustainable tribology. Full article

Achieving ultra-low-sulfur diesel is a crucial objective in modern fuel refining, driven by increasingly stringent environmental regulations. This study presents the development of a highly efficient oxidative–adsorptive desulfurization process utilizing a nanocatalyst synthesized from biowaste eggshell-extracted calcite. The oxidation reaction was conducted in a digital basket reactor (DBR), an advanced reactor system designed to enhance mass transfer and catalytic efficiency. To further augment the catalyst’s performance, the calcite was modified with eco-friendly MnO₂, while activated carbon was employed as an adsorbent to effectively capture oxidized sulfur compounds, ensuring compliance with ultra-low-sulfur fuel standards. The synthesized nanocatalyst underwent comprehensive physicochemical characterization using SEM, EDX, BET, and FTIR, confirming its high surface area, structural integrity, and superior catalytic activity. The MnO₂/P–calcite catalyst achieved a sulfur removal efficiency of 96.5% at 90 °C, 80 min, and 600 rpm, demonstrating excellent oxidative–adsorptive performance for real diesel fuel. The integration of this innovative nanocatalyst with the DBR system presents a sustainable, cost-effective, and industrially viable approach for deep desulfurization, offering significant advancements in clean fuel production and environmental sustainability. Full article

Biopolymers have emerged as a transformative class of materials that reconcile high-performance functionality with environmental stewardship. Their inherent capacity for controlled degradation and biocompatibility has driven rapid advancements across electronics, sensing, actuation, and healthcare. In flexible electronics, these polymers serve as substrates, dielectrics, and conductive composites that enable transient devices, reducing electronic waste without compromising electrical performance. Within sensing and actuation, biodegradable polymer matrices facilitate the development of fully resorbable biosensors and soft actuators. These systems harness tailored degradation kinetics to achieve temporal control over signal transduction and mechanical response, unlocking applications in in vivo monitoring and on-demand drug delivery. In healthcare, biodegradable polymers underpin novel approaches in tissue engineering, wound healing, and bioresorbable implants. Their tunable chemical architectures and processing versatility allow for precise regulation of mechanical properties, degradation rates, and therapeutic payloads, fostering seamless integration with biological environments. The convergence of these emerging applications underscores the pivotal role of biodegradable polymers in advancing sustainable technology and personalized medicine. Continued interdisciplinary research into polymer design, processing strategies, and integration techniques will accelerate commercialization and broaden the impact of these lower eCO₂ value materials across diverse sectors. This perspective article comments on the innovation in these sectors that go beyond the applications of biodegradable materials in packaging applications. Full article

This study explores innovative approaches for sustainable food preservation by incorporating Sichuan pepper extract into biodegradable gelatin and alginate films. In response to growing environmental and health concerns, these natural polymers offer alternatives to petroleum-based plastics and synthetic additives. The aim of this study was to compare films made from gelatin and alginate and containing Sichuan pepper extract (2.5 and 5%) and to evaluate their effectiveness in extending the shelf life of refrigerated beef patties. Scavenging activity and polyphenol content of the extract were evaluated by DPPH (4.70 µmol TE/mL), ABTS (4.03 µmol TE/mL), and Folin–Ciocalteu assays (2.35 mg GAE/mL). In addition, the physical characteristics of the films were also assessed. Film characterization showed that gelatin-based films had greater stiffness (water-based alginate film; 1156 MPa), which diminished with increased extract content (5% extract-based alginate film: 215.5 MPa), and surface homogeneity also declined with higher extract content. However, higher concentrations of the extract (5%) improved optical properties such as UV protection and opacity. Preservation tests performed on beef patties revealed that the films with the extract could significantly reduce lipid oxidation, with lower TBARS values observed in samples covered with these films. Nevertheless, no significant differences were detected between films with the extract. Moreover, samples without the extract were the most oxidized, proving that the film without the extract had no protective effect against oxidation. Overall, these findings underscore the potential of Sichuan pepper as a natural ingredient and highlight the promise of biodegradable films as an effective and eco-friendly strategy for meat product packaging. Full article

Water treatment systems in swimming ponds support the natural self-cleaning capabilities of water based on the functions of repository macrophytes in their regeneration zone and the regulation of the internal metabolism of the reservoirs. As part of the project, a functional modular filtration chamber with system multiplication capabilities was designed and created. This element is dedicated to water treatment systems in natural swimming ponds. The prototype system consisted of modular filtration chambers and pump sections, as well as equipment adapted to the conditions prevailing in the eco-pool. An innovative solution for selective shutdown of the filtration chamber without closing the circulation circuit was also used, which forms the basis of a patent application. A verified high-performance adsorbent, Rockfos^® modified limestone, was used in the filtration chamber. In order to determine the effective filtration rate for three small test ponds with different flow rates (5 m/h, 10 m/h and 15 m/h), the selected physicochemical parameters of water (temperature, pH, electrolytical conductivity, oxygen saturation, total hardness, nitrites, nitrates, and total phosphorus, including adsorption efficiency and bed absorption capacity) were researched before and after filtration. Tests were also carried out on the composition of fecal bacteria and phyto- and zooplankton. Based on high effective phosphorus filtration efficiency of 32.65% during the operation of the bed, the following were determined: no exceedances of the standards for the tested parameters in relation to the German standards for eco-pools (FLL—Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau e. V., 2011); lower number of fecal pathogens (on average 393—coliform bacteria; 74—Escherichia coli; 34—fecal enterococci, most probably number/100 mL); the lowest share of problematic cyanobacteria in phytoplankton (<250,000 individuals/dm³ in number and <0.05 µg/dm³—biomass); low chlorophyll a content (2.2 µg/dm³—oligotrophy) and the presence of more favorable smaller forms of zooplankton, an effective filtration speed of 5 m/h. This velocity was recommended in the FLL standards for swimming ponds, which were adopted in this study as a reference for rapid filters. In testing the functional efficiency of a dedicated filtration system for a Type II test pond (50 m²—area and 33 m³—capacity), at a filtration rate of 5 m/h, an average effective phosphorus adsorption efficiency of 18.28–53.98% was observed under the bed work-in-progress conditions. Analyses of other physicochemical water parameters, with appropriate calculations and statistical tests, indicated progressive functional efficiency of the system under bathing conditions. Full article

The aim of the work was to innovate in the field of biodegradable straws by valorizing waste materials, specifically spent coffee grounds (SCG), in combination with food-grade biopolymers. Biodegradable straws were produced using pork gelatin and three starch types (corn, rice, and potato) via a dipping technique designed to ensure reproducible layer formation and structural stability. The prepared straws were analyzed for their physicochemical, antioxidant, textural, and solubility properties. Antioxidant potential was assessed using multiple assays (FRAP, ABTS, and CUPRAC), along with determinations of total polyphenol and flavonoid contents. Texture analysis was conducted to evaluate hardness, fracturability, and compression in comparison with commercial paper and plastic straws. Biodegradability was examined through solubility tests in distilled and seawater. The addition of SCG markedly enhanced antioxidant capacity and increased polyphenol and flavonoid contents, while starch type influenced mechanical performance, with rice starch-based straws showing the highest hardness values. All straws demonstrated complete dissolution in both distilled and seawater within 24 h, confirming rapid biodegradation. The results highlight the dual advantage of SCG incorporation: improving functional properties through antioxidant enrichment and reinforcing environmental sustainability by valorizing food industry waste. This study demonstrates the potential of SCG-enhanced straws as a scalable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional single-use plastics. Full article

The frozen food industry faces growing pressure for sustainability, requiring significant reductions in energy consumption and environmental impact. A critical, yet often overlooked, challenge is the temperature differential between production equipment and the environment, which causes energy inefficiencies, material losses, and quality degradation. Despite its significant influence on production performance and environmental burden, this issue has received limited attention in existing studies. To address this gap, this study aims to develop a systematic innovation framework that integrates the TRIZ-based system interaction analysis, a knowledge base of patented and expert-derived solutions, and Quality Function Deployment to identify root causes and design effective circular strategies. The proposed framework is applied to a frozen fish processing case study, where analysis reveals temperature variation as the dominant bottleneck. The strategy embeds dynamic, microscale adaptability into freezing equipment, which reduces the environmental impact of temperature fluctuations, improves energy efficiency, and cuts material waste. These results demonstrate the feasibility, scalability, and innovation potential of the approach, offering a structured methodology for advancing circularity, resilience, and eco-efficiency in frozen food processing systems. Full article

Growing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil-based resources have accelerated the demand for sustainable alternatives in engineering and construction materials. Among these, bio-based composites have gained attention for their use of renewable and eco-friendly resources. Macadamia nutshells, typically treated as agricultural waste, possess high strength, brittleness, heat resistance, and fracture toughness, making them attractive candidates for structural applications. Australia alone contributes nearly 40% of global macadamia production, generating significant shell by-products that could be repurposed into high-value composites. This study investigates the development of novel composite cores and sandwich structures using macadamia nutshell particles reinforced in an epoxy polymer matrix. Two weight ratios (10% and 15%) and two particle sizes (200–600 µm and 1–1.18 mm) were employed, combined with laminating epoxy resin and hardener to fabricate composite cores. These cores were further processed into sandwich specimens with carbon fabric skins. Flexural and short beam shear (SBS) tests were conducted to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of the composites. The results demonstrate that higher filler content with fine particles achieved up to 15% higher flexural strength and 18% higher stiffness compared to coarser particle composites. Sandwich structures exhibited markedly improved interlaminar shear strength (8–15 MPa), confirming superior load transfer and durability. The results demonstrate that higher filler content and finer particles provided the most favourable mechanical performance, showing higher flexural strength, stiffness, and shear resistance compared to coarser particle formulations. Sandwich structures significantly outperformed core-only composites due to improved load transfer and resistance to bending and shear stresses, with the 15% fine-particle configuration emerging as the optimal formulation. By transforming macadamia nutshells into value-added composites, this research highlights an innovative pathway for waste utilisation, reduced environmental impact, and sustainable material development. The findings suggest that such composites hold strong potential for structural applications in construction and related engineering fields, especially in regions with abundant macadamia production. This study reinforces the role of agricultural by-products as practical solutions for advancing green composites and contributing to circular economy principles. Full article

The integration of nanotechnology with green chemistry presents sustainable strategies for developing multifunctional cosmeceutical formulations. In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were successfully synthesized using antioxidant-rich green tea extract via an eco-friendly method. The nanoparticles were incorporated into a novel Pickering emulsion comprising coconut oil and green tea extract, targeting UV protection and antimicrobial performance. The green-synthesized IONPs displayed strong UV absorption properties, achieving an SPF of 6.20 at 1.0 M concentration, outperforming standard TiO₂ nanoparticles (SPF 3.98). The optimized Pickering emulsion formulation showed stability and skin-friendly pH. Antimicrobial studies revealed significant inhibition of Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus, with over 97% microbial reduction observed within 2 h of exposure. This dual-functional system, combining UV protection and antimicrobial effects, demonstrates the potential of green nanomaterials for developing safe, effective, and sustainable skincare formulations. The study provides new insight into the application of iron-based green nanotechnology in surfactant-free emulsions, supporting further innovation in the field of natural photoprotective cosmeceuticals. Full article

Wood modification using biopolymers has emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical treatments, enhancing wood’s durability, moisture resistance, and mechanical properties while reducing environmental impact. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in biopolymer-based wood modification, focusing on commonly used biopolymers such as furfuryl alcohol, polylactic acid, caprolactone, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, polybutylene succinate, zein, lignin, tannin, chitosan, alginate, gums, fatty acids, rosin, and sorbitol + citric acid. Future perspectives highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between academia, research institutions, and industry to accelerate innovation and commercialization. This review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals working toward the development of high-performance, eco-friendly modified wood products. Full article

The global outbreak and prolonged presence of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have resulted in a substantial accumulation of discarded masks, posing serious environmental challenges. This study proposes an eco-friendly and low-carbon strategy to repurpose discarded DMFM fibers as a key component in fiber-reinforced self-compacting recycled aggregate concrete (FRSCRAC). The mechanical and environmental performance of FRSCRAC was systematically evaluated by investigating the effects of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement ratios (0%, 50%, 100%), discarded DMFM fiber material (DMFM) contents (0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%), and fiber lengths (2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm) on axial compression failure mode and stress–strain behavior. The results demonstrated that DMFM fibers significantly enhanced concrete ductility and peak stress via the fiber-bridging effect. Based on fiber influence, modified stress–strain and shrinkage models for SCRAC were established. To further understand the fiber fixation mechanism, X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were conducted. The findings revealed a stable random distribution of fibers and strong interfacial bonding between fibers. These improvements contributed to enhanced mechanical performance and the effective immobilization of polypropylene microfibers, preventing further microplastics release into the air. This innovative approach provides a sustainable solution for recycling and effectively immobilizing discarded DMFM fibers in concrete over long curing periods, while also enhancing its properties. Full article

The intricate crosstalk between intestinal microbiota and host defense peptides (HDPs) in aquaculture has emerged as a cornerstone for advancing sustainable disease management and reducing reliance on antibiotics. This review synthesizes current insights into the bidirectional interactions shaping aquatic animal health, where HDPs, multifunctional immune molecules, directly neutralize pathogens while selectively modulating intestinal microbial communities to favor beneficial taxa (including Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Cetobacterium, Lactococcus, and so on) and suppress harmful species. Conversely, intestinal microbiota regulate HDP expression through microbial-derived signals, such as lipopolysaccharides and metabolites, which activate host immune pathways like Toll-like receptors (TLRs) to amplify innate defenses. This dynamic interplay underpins critical physiological functions, including nutrient absorption, intestinal barrier integrity, and systemic immune homeostasis, offering a dual mechanism to enhance disease resistance and growth performance. Practical applications, such as HDP-enriched feeds and probiotic–HDP synergies, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing mortality and improving productivity across species like shrimp, salmon, and carp. However, challenges such as HDP instability, species-specific variability in peptide efficacy, and the complexity of microbiota–HDP networks hinder broad implementation. Future research must prioritize innovative strategies, including engineered microbial systems for scalable HDP production, multi-omics approaches to unravel interaction mechanisms, and eco-friendly combinatorial therapies integrating HDPs, probiotics, and plant-derived compounds. By bridging immunology, microbiology, and aquaculture science, this field can transition toward antibiotic-free practices, ensuring ecological sustainability and global food security in the face of rising aquatic disease threats and environmental pressures. Full article

This study presents an in situ and laboratory evaluation of an innovative biocide-free nanocomposite coating designed to provide dual anti-corrosion and anti-fouling protection for EH36 naval steel in marine environments. The coating, comprising polyaniline nanorods, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and Fe₃O₄-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes embedded in a robust resin matrix, was systematically assessed through electrochemical, microscopic, and field-based methods. Laboratory immersion tests and extended exposures at two Mediterranean sea sites (Thessaloniki and Heraklion) revealed substantial improvements in corrosion resistance and significant suppression of marine biofouling over periods of up to 24 months. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that coated specimens maintained a corrosion inhibition efficiency exceeding 93% throughout the study, exhibiting markedly lower corrosion current densities and higher charge transfer resistances than uncoated controls. Impedance spectroscopy and equivalent circuit modeling confirmed sustained barrier properties, while digital imaging and qualitative biological assessments showed reduced colonization by both micro- and macrofouling organisms. Comparative analysis with conventional biocidal and alternative eco-friendly coatings underscored the superior durability, environmental compatibility, and anti-fouling efficacy of the developed system. The results highlight the coating’s promise as a sustainable, high-performance solution for long-term protection of naval steels against the combined challenges of corrosion and biofouling in harsh marine settings. Full article

Polymeric biocomposites are emerging as a new generation of eco-friendly and cost-effective materials that provide sustainable alternatives for the polymer industry while supporting environmental conservation. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) compounds blended with natural rubber (NR) and reinforced with silanized Sugarcane Bagasse Ash (SCBA), chemically modified with bis(3 triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide (TESPT). Blends were formulated in LDPE/NR-SCBA weight ratios (wt%) of 90/10, 70/30, and 50/50, and processed at mixing speeds of 40 and 80 rpm to evaluate their potential as thermoplastic additives. Mechanical testing showed that blends mixed at 80 rpm achieved an 86% increase in elongation, while those processed at 40 rpm demonstrated a 78% enhancement in tensile strength. The incorporation of NR and vulcanizing systems markedly improved the overall mechanical properties of the composites. These biocomposites present promise for applications in the footwear industry (especially for soles) and for ergonomic molded components by conferring the advantageous combination of mechanical performance and esthetic appeal. Furthermore, development supports innovative manufacturing processes and contributes to reducing the industry`s carbon footprints, mitigating its negative impact on the planet. Full article

Chemical sensors have undergone transformative advances in recent years, driven by the convergence of nanomaterials, advanced fabrication strategies, and state-of-the-art characterization methods. This review emphasizes recent developments, with particular attention to progress achieved over the past decade, and highlights the role of the United States as a major driver of global innovation in the field. Nanomaterials such as graphene derivatives, MXenes, carbon nanotubes, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and hybrid composites have enabled unprecedented analytical performance. Representative studies report detection limits down to the parts-per-billion (ppb) and even parts-per-trillion (ppt) level, with linear ranges typically spanning 10–500 ppb for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and 0.1–100 μM for biomolecules. Response and recovery times are often below 10–30 s, while reproducibility frequently exceeds 90% across multiple sensing cycles. Stability has been demonstrated in platforms capable of continuous operation for weeks to months without significant drift. In parallel, additive manufacturing, device miniaturization, and flexible electronics have facilitated the integration of sensors into wearable, stretchable, and implantable platforms, extending their applications in healthcare diagnostics, environmental monitoring, food safety, and industrial process control. Advanced characterization techniques, including in situ Raman spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and high-resolution electron microscopy, have elucidated interfacial charge-transfer mechanisms, guiding rational material design and improved selectivity. Despite these achievements, challenges remain in terms of scalability, reproducibility of nanomaterial synthesis, long-term stability, and regulatory validation. Data privacy and cybersecurity also emerge as critical issues for IoT-integrated sensing networks. Looking forward, promising future directions include the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for real-time data interpretation, the development of biodegradable and eco-friendly materials, and the convergence of multidisciplinary approaches to ensure robust, sustainable, and socially responsible sensing platforms. Overall, nanomaterial-enabled chemical sensors are poised to become indispensable tools for advancing public health, environmental sustainability, and industrial innovation, offering a pathway toward intelligent and adaptive sensing systems. Full article