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Keywords = metal ion inclusion

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40 pages, 4676 KiB  
Review
Recent Developments in Polymer Inclusion Membranes: Advances in Selectivity, Structural Integrity, Environmental Applications and Sustainable Fabrication
by Anna Nowik-Zając and Vira Sabadash
Membranes 2025, 15(8), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15080249 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) have undergone substantial advancements in their selectivity and efficiency, driven by their increasing deployment in separation processes, environmental remediation, and sensing applications. This review presents recent progress in the development of PIMs, focusing on strategies to enhance ion and [...] Read more.
Polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) have undergone substantial advancements in their selectivity and efficiency, driven by their increasing deployment in separation processes, environmental remediation, and sensing applications. This review presents recent progress in the development of PIMs, focusing on strategies to enhance ion and molecule selectivity through the incorporation of novel carriers, including ionic liquids and task-specific extractants, as well as through polymer functionalization techniques. Improvements in mechanical and chemical stability, achieved via the utilization of high-performance polymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polyether ether ketone (PEEK), as well as cross-linking approaches, are critically analyzed. The expanded application of PIMs in the removal of heavy metals, organic micropollutants, and gas separation, particularly for carbon dioxide capture, is discussed with an emphasis on efficiency and operational robustness. The integration of PIMs with electrochemical and optical transduction platforms for sensor development is also reviewed, highlighting enhancements in sensitivity, selectivity, and response time. Furthermore, emerging trends towards the fabrication of sustainable PIMs using biodegradable polymers and green solvents are evaluated. Advances in scalable manufacturing techniques, including phase inversion and electrospinning, are addressed, outlining pathways for the industrial translation of PIM technologies. The review concludes by identifying current limitations and proposing future research directions necessary to fully exploit the potential of PIMs in industrial and environmental sectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Polymeric Membranes—Preparation and Applications)
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19 pages, 5243 KiB  
Article
Crystal Structure and Properties of Thallium(I) Salinomycinate
by Nikolay Petkov, Petar Dorkov, Angel Ugrinov, Elzhana Encheva, Miroslav Abrashev, Diana Zasheva, Teodora Daneva and Ivayla N. Pantcheva
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136504 - 6 Jul 2025
Viewed by 798
Abstract
In this study, we present the preparation and characterization of a novel thallium(I) coordination compound of the polyether ionophorous antibiotic salinomycin (SalH). The complex [TlSal(H2O)] exists as two subunits, SalTl1 and SalTl2, which differ slightly in their structural parameters. Salinomycin acts [...] Read more.
In this study, we present the preparation and characterization of a novel thallium(I) coordination compound of the polyether ionophorous antibiotic salinomycin (SalH). The complex [TlSal(H2O)] exists as two subunits, SalTl1 and SalTl2, which differ slightly in their structural parameters. Salinomycin acts in a pentadentate coordination mode through oxygen donor atoms, and the six-fold arrangement around the metal centers is completed by interaction with a water molecule. In the overall complex structure, the two mononuclear species SalTl1 and SalTl2 are connected via a hydrogen bond network by a third water molecule. The inclusion of the heavy metal ion into the structure of the polyether ionophore reduces its biological activity against Gram-positive microorganisms and cervical cancer cells at in vitro conditions. Full article
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32 pages, 947 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Environmental and Material Factors on Fluoride Release from Metal-Modified Glass Ionomer Cements: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies
by Sylwia Klimas, Sylwia Kiryk, Jan Kiryk, Agnieszka Kotela, Julia Kensy, Mateusz Michalak, Zbigniew Rybak, Jacek Matys and Maciej Dobrzyński
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3187; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133187 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 633
Abstract
Objective: Fluoride is widely recognized for its preventive role against secondary caries. This systematic review aimed to evaluate how environmental and material factors influence fluoride ion release from metal-reinforced glass ionomer cements. Methods: A structured literature search was performed in March 2025 across [...] Read more.
Objective: Fluoride is widely recognized for its preventive role against secondary caries. This systematic review aimed to evaluate how environmental and material factors influence fluoride ion release from metal-reinforced glass ionomer cements. Methods: A structured literature search was performed in March 2025 across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Search terms included combinations of fluoride release AND glass ionomer AND silver OR zinc OR strontium OR copper. The study selection process followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was organized using the PICO framework. Out of 281 initially identified records, 153 were screened based on titles and abstracts. After applying predefined eligibility criteria, 23 studies met the inclusion requirements and were included in the qualitative analysis. Results: Among the 23 included publications, 12 involved glass ionomers modified with silver, and 6 of these reported an increase in fluoride release. Seven studies focused on zinc-modified cements, and four examined materials reinforced with strontium. Conclusions: The addition of strontium, titanium oxide, silver nanoparticles, or zirconium oxide increases the release of fluoride ions, while sintered silver reduces it. There is a great discrepancy among researchers regarding the effect of the addition of zinc oxide and its appropriate amount in the glass ionomer material. Full article
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18 pages, 5570 KiB  
Article
SPICE-Compatible Degradation Modeling Framework for TDDB and LER Effects in Advanced Packaging BEOL Based on Ion Migration Mechanism
by Shao-Chun Zhang, Sen-Sen Li, Ying Ji, Ning Yang, Yuan-Hao Shan, Li Hong, Hao-Gang Wang, Wen-Sheng Zhao and Da-Wei Wang
Micromachines 2025, 16(7), 766; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16070766 - 29 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2322
Abstract
The time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) degradation mechanism, governed by the synergistic interaction of multiphysics fields, plays a pivotal role in the performance degradation and eventual failure of semiconductor devices and advanced packaging back-end-of-line (BEOL) structures. This work specifically focuses on the dielectric breakdown [...] Read more.
The time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) degradation mechanism, governed by the synergistic interaction of multiphysics fields, plays a pivotal role in the performance degradation and eventual failure of semiconductor devices and advanced packaging back-end-of-line (BEOL) structures. This work specifically focuses on the dielectric breakdown mechanism driven by metal ion migration within inter-metal dielectric layers, a primary contributor to TDDB degradation. A SPICE-compatible modeling approach is developed to accurately capture the dynamics of this ion migration-induced degradation. The proposed model is rooted in the fundamental physics of metal ion migration and the evolution of conductive filaments (CFs) within the dielectric layer under operational stress conditions. By precisely characterizing the degradation behavior induced by TDDB, a SPICE-compatible degradation model is developed. This model facilitates accurate predictions of resistance changes across a range of operational conditions and lifetime, encompassing variations in stress voltages, temperatures, and structural parameters. The predictive capability and accuracy of the model are validated by comparing its calculated results with numerical ones, thereby confirming its applicability. Furthermore, building upon the established degradation model, the impact of line-edge roughness (LER) is incorporated through a process variation model based on the power spectral density (PSD) function. This PSD-derived model provides a quantitative characterization of LER-induced fluctuations in critical device dimensions, enabling a more realistic representation of process-related variability. By integrating this stochastic variability model into the degradation framework, the resulting lifetime prediction model effectively captures reliability variations arising from real-world fabrication non-uniformities. Validation against simulation data demonstrates that the inclusion of LER effects significantly improves the accuracy of predicted lifetime curves, yielding closer alignment with observed device behavior under accelerated stress conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Interconnect and Packaging, 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 1787 KiB  
Article
Probing Solid-State Interface Kinetics via Alternating Current Electrophoretic Deposition: LiFePO4 Li-Metal Batteries
by Su Jeong Lee and Byoungnam Park
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7120; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137120 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 376
Abstract
This work presents a comprehensive investigation into the interfacial charge storage mechanisms and lithium-ion transport behavior of Li-metal all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) employing LiFePO4 (LFP) cathodes fabricated via alternating current electrophoretic deposition (AC-EPD) and Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4) [...] Read more.
This work presents a comprehensive investigation into the interfacial charge storage mechanisms and lithium-ion transport behavior of Li-metal all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) employing LiFePO4 (LFP) cathodes fabricated via alternating current electrophoretic deposition (AC-EPD) and Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) as the solid-state electrolyte. We demonstrate that optimal sintering improves the LATP–LFP interfacial contact, leading to higher lithium diffusivity (~10−9 cm2∙s−1) and diffusion-controlled kinetics (b ≈ 0.5), which directly translate to better rate capability. Structural and electrochemical analyses—including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and rate capability tests—demonstrate that the cell with LATP sintered at 900 °C delivers the highest Li-ion diffusivity (~10−9 cm2∙s−1), near-ideal diffusion-controlled behavior (b-values ~0.5), and superior rate capability. In contrast, excessive sintering at 1000 °C led to reduced diffusivity (~10−10 cm2∙s−1). The liquid electrolyte system showed higher b-values (~0.58), indicating the inclusion of surface capacitive behavior. The correlation between b-values, diffusivity, and morphology underscores the critical role of interface engineering and electrolyte processing in determining the performance of solid-state batteries. This study establishes AC-EPD as a viable and scalable method for fabricating additive-free LFP cathodes and offers new insights into the structure–property relationships governing the interfacial transport in ASSBs. Full article
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18 pages, 2339 KiB  
Article
Effect of Adding Alkaline Metal Ions Complexes Rumen Microbiota and Metabolome of Hu Lambs
by Mingyue Li, Chi Ma, Yalin Li, Ziyi An, Yilin Yang, Feng Gao, Changqing Li and Yingchun Liu
Animals 2025, 15(12), 1816; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121816 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 335
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of studying the effects of the alkali metal ion complexes (AMIC) on the rumen of lambs. Eighteen 3-month-old male Hu lambs (30 ± 2.5 kg) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 6). Dietary [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of studying the effects of the alkali metal ion complexes (AMIC) on the rumen of lambs. Eighteen 3-month-old male Hu lambs (30 ± 2.5 kg) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 6). Dietary treatments were: control group (CG, base diet), group C1 (base diet + 0.15% AMIC), and group C2 (base diet + 0.30% AMIC). After 60 days of feeding, samples were collected for analysis. Compared with CG, rumen weight significantly increased in both C1 and C2 (p < 0.05). In C2, average daily gain (ADG), bacterial crude protein (BCP), propionic acid concentration, and rumen papillary length were significantly higher than in CG (p < 0.05). Rumen microbiota analysis showed that AMIC supplementation changed the microbial community composition, increasing the relative abundance of fiber-degrading bacteria (e.g., Prevotellaceae_UCG-001) and decreasing pathogenic Proteobacteria. In particular, rumen papillary length positively correlated with Unclassified Oscillospiraceae, Candidatus Saccharimonas, and Unclassified Clostridia vadinBB60 group. Metabolomic analysis revealed that quercetin 3-O-glucuronide levels increased in a dose-dependent manner with higher AMIC. This metabolite positively correlated with Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 abundance and ADG. At 0.30% AMIC, phospholipids PC(18:0/18:4(6Z,9Z,12Z,15Z)) and PE(18:0/16:1(9Z)) were significantly upregulated, and both positively correlated with Candidatus Saccharimonas, Unclassified Clostridia vadinBB60 group, and papillary morphology. In summary, AMIC supplementation affected metabolism by modulating the rumen microbiota, thereby promoting energy absorption and growth. The 0.30% AMIC inclusion significantly enhanced rumen papilla growth, increased the absorption area, promoted propionic acid production, reduced the acetic acid to propionic acid ratio, and ultimately improved the growth rate of Hu lambs. Thus, adding 0.30% AMIC was associated with improved growth performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)
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31 pages, 1734 KiB  
Review
Progress, Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling Electric Vehicle Batteries: A Systematic Review Article
by Hamid Safarzadeh and Francesco Di Maria
Batteries 2025, 11(6), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries11060230 - 13 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2332
Abstract
Objective: The rapid growth of electric vehicle (EV) adoption has led to an unprecedented increase in lithium-ion battery (LIB) demand and end-of-life waste, underscoring the urgent need for effective recycling strategies. This review evaluates current progress in EV battery recycling and explores future [...] Read more.
Objective: The rapid growth of electric vehicle (EV) adoption has led to an unprecedented increase in lithium-ion battery (LIB) demand and end-of-life waste, underscoring the urgent need for effective recycling strategies. This review evaluates current progress in EV battery recycling and explores future prospects. Design: Review based on PRISMA 2020. Data sources: Scientific publications indexed in major databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect were searched for relevant studies published between 2020 and 15 April 2025. Inclusion criteria: Studies were included if they were published in English between 2020 and 15 April 2025, and focused on the recycling of electric vehicle batteries. Eligible studies specifically addressed (i) recycling methods, technologies, and material recovery processes for EV batteries; (ii) the impact of recycled battery systems on power generation processes and grid stability; and (iii) assessments of materials used in battery manufacturing, including efficiency and recyclability. Review articles and meta-analyses were excluded to ensure the inclusion of only original research data. Data extraction: Data were independently screened and extracted by two researchers and analyzed for recovery rates, environmental impact, and system-level energy contributions. One researcher independently screened all articles and extracted relevant data. A second researcher validated the accuracy of extracted data. The data were then organized and analyzed based on reported quantitative and qualitative indicators related to recycling methods, material recovery rates, environmental impact, and system-level energy benefits. Results: A total of 23 studies were included. Significant progress has been made in hydrometallurgical and direct recycling processes, with recovery rates of critical metals (Li, Co, Ni) improving. Second-life battery applications also show promise for grid stabilization and renewable energy storage. Furthermore, recycled batteries show potential in stabilizing power grids through second-life applications in BESS. Conclusion: EV battery recycling is a vital strategy for addressing raw material scarcity, minimizing environmental harm, and supporting energy resilience. However, challenges persist in policy harmonization, technology scaling, and economic viability. Future progress will depend on integrated efforts across sectors and regions to build a circular battery economy. Full article
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12 pages, 799 KiB  
Review
The Effect of Fluoride Mouthwashes on Orthodontic Appliances’ Corrosion and Mechanical Properties: A Scoping Review
by Miltiadis A. Makrygiannakis, Angeliki Anna Gkinosati, Sotirios Kalfas and Eleftherios G. Kaklamanos
Hygiene 2025, 5(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/hygiene5020023 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 813
Abstract
Fluoride mouthwashes are often recommended by dental professionals due to their proven benefits for oral hygiene. However, it is vital to acknowledge that these products may have undesirable effects on orthodontic treatment outcomes, particularly by altering the biomechanical properties of orthodontic devices and [...] Read more.
Fluoride mouthwashes are often recommended by dental professionals due to their proven benefits for oral hygiene. However, it is vital to acknowledge that these products may have undesirable effects on orthodontic treatment outcomes, particularly by altering the biomechanical properties of orthodontic devices and their components. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this potential issue, an extensive and systematic search was conducted across seven distinct databases. PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA ScR) guidelines were followed. Following a detailed evaluation and careful scrutiny of the available evidence, a total of seven relevant studies met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the current scoping review. Findings indicated that regular intraoral use of fluoride-containing mouthwashes could lead to heightened corrosion and greater release of metal ions from stainless-steel brackets and nickel–titanium (NiTi) archwires. Additionally, the mechanical properties and structural integrity of titanium–molybdenum alloy (TMA) wires were negatively influenced by exposure to fluoride mouthwashes. Although existing evidence highlights these potential drawbacks, there remains a clear necessity for additional comprehensive research. Given the possibility that fluoride mouthwashes could adversely influence orthodontic treatment effectiveness, orthodontists and dental clinicians must exercise cautious judgment and deliberate consideration when prescribing fluoride-based mouthwashes for patients undergoing orthodontic therapy. Full article
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35 pages, 9564 KiB  
Review
Research Progress of the Coatings Fabricated onto Titanium and/or Titanium Alloy Surfaces in Biomaterials for Medical Applications for Anticorrosive Applications
by Qin Rao, Jinshuang Zhang, Yaqing Chen, Yujin Yang, Xu Chen, Donghao Liu, Ruilu Zhu, Ang Li, Yanping Lv and Shunli Zheng
Coatings 2025, 15(5), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15050599 - 17 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 689
Abstract
Titanium (Ti) and its alloys have attracted more interest, as they are widely employed as biomaterials due to their great biocompatibility, excellent strength ratio, and lightweight. However, corrosion occurs slowly due to an electrochemical reaction once the Ti material has been placed in [...] Read more.
Titanium (Ti) and its alloys have attracted more interest, as they are widely employed as biomaterials due to their great biocompatibility, excellent strength ratio, and lightweight. However, corrosion occurs slowly due to an electrochemical reaction once the Ti material has been placed in the human body, contributing to infection and failure of implants in medical applications. Thus, the corrosion phenomenon has caused great concern in the biomedical field. It is desirable to make the surface modification to provide better corrosion resistance. The fabrication techniques of the coatings fabricated onto Ti and/or Ti alloy surfaces have been reported, including sol–gel, annealing, plasma spraying, plasma immersion ion implantation, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, anodization, and micro-arc oxidation. This review first describes the corrosion types, including localized corrosion (both pitting and crevice corrosion), galvanic corrosion, selective leaching, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), corrosion fatigue (CF), and fretting corrosion. In the second part, the effects of corrosion on the human body were discussed, and the primary cause for clinical failure and allergies has been identified as the excessive release of poisonous and dangerous metal ions (Co, Ni, and Ti) from corroded implants into bodily fluids. The inclusion and exclusion criteria during the selection of literature are described in the third section. In the last section, we emphasized the current research progress of Ti alloy (particularly Ti6Al4V alloy) coatings in biomaterials for medical applications involving dental, orthopedic, and cardiovascular implants for anticorrosive applications. However, there are also several problems to explore and address in future studies, such as the release of excessive metal ions, etc. This review will draw attention to both researchers and clinicians, which could help to increase the coatings fabricated onto Ti and/or Ti alloy surfaces for anticorrosive applications in biomaterials for medical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Coatings for Corrosion Protection of Alloy Surfaces)
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32 pages, 5003 KiB  
Review
Chalcopyrite Flotation, Molecular Design and Smart Industry: A Review
by Luis A. Rios, Melanny J. Barraza, Pedro A. Robles and Gonzalo R. Quezada
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(8), 3613; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083613 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1339
Abstract
Chalcopyrite, the main source of copper worldwide, faces challenges in its flotation due to the complexity of its surface interactions and its coexistence with other minerals. Given the need for papers that show the current state of knowledge and new trends, this article [...] Read more.
Chalcopyrite, the main source of copper worldwide, faces challenges in its flotation due to the complexity of its surface interactions and its coexistence with other minerals. Given the need for papers that show the current state of knowledge and new trends, this article reviews the developments of chalcopyrite flotation, with a focus on molecular design. A comprehensive bibliography search was conducted using keywords and specific queries in the Scopus database, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria to select the most relevant articles. The results were structured in three research periods, according to temporal and thematic criteria. The first period approaches the fundamentals of the process, considering variables as reagent dosage, surface chemistry and the influence of metal ions on recovery and selectivity. The second period explores the analysis and measurement techniques for the development of more selective and sustainable reagents. The third period analyzes the integration of advanced tools, such as molecular dynamic simulations and machine learning, into the understanding of adsorption mechanisms and custom reagent design. It is expected that this work will become a theoretical reference in future research and for mining companies that intend to innovate in their copper flotation and recovery processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Machine Learning to Molecular Dynamics Simulations)
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32 pages, 2445 KiB  
Review
Toxicity, Irritation, and Allergy of Metal Implants: Historical Perspective and Modern Solutions
by Grzegorz Szczęsny, Mateusz Kopec and Zbigniew L. Kowalewski
Coatings 2025, 15(3), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15030361 - 20 Mar 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5369
Abstract
The widespread adoption of metal implants in orthopaedics and dentistry has revolutionized medical treatments, but concerns remain regarding their biocompatibility, toxicity, and immunogenicity. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review of traditional biomaterials used in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology, with a particular focus [...] Read more.
The widespread adoption of metal implants in orthopaedics and dentistry has revolutionized medical treatments, but concerns remain regarding their biocompatibility, toxicity, and immunogenicity. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review of traditional biomaterials used in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology, with a particular focus on their historical development and biological interactions. Research articles were gathered from PubMed and Web of Science databases using keyword combinations such as “toxicity, irritation, allergy, biomaterials, corrosion, implants, orthopaedic surgery, biocompatible materials, steel, alloys, material properties, applications, implantology, and surface modification”. An initial pool of 400 articles was screened by independent reviewers based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in 160 relevant articles covering research from 1950 to 2025. This paper explores the electrochemical processes of metals like iron, titanium, aluminium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, and chromium post-implantation, which cause ion release and wear debris formation. These metal ions interact with biological molecules, triggering localized irritation, inflammatory responses, and immune-mediated hypersensitivity. Unlike existing reviews, this paper highlights how metal–protein interactions can form antigenic complexes, contributing to delayed hypersensitivity and complications such as peri-implant osteolysis and implant failure. While titanium is traditionally considered bioinert, emerging evidence suggests that under certain conditions, even inert metals can induce adverse biological effects. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the role of oxidative stress, illustrating how metal ion release and systemic toxicity contribute to long-term health risks. It also uncovers the underappreciated genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of metal ions on cellular metabolism, shedding light on potential long-term repercussions. By integrating a rigorous methodological approach with an in-depth exploration of metal-induced biological responses, this paper offers a more nuanced perspective on the complex interplay between metal implants and human biology, advancing the discourse on implant safety and material innovation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Review Papers Collection for Bioactive Coatings)
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21 pages, 4395 KiB  
Article
Tuning the Properties of Dodecylpyridinium Metallosurfactants: The Role of Iron-Based Counterions
by Mirta Rubčić, Mirta Herak, Ana Ivančić, Edi Topić, Emma Beriša, Ivana Tartaro Bujak and Darija Domazet Jurašin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(6), 2540; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26062540 - 12 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 739
Abstract
Metallosurfactants combine the unique soft-matter properties of surfactants with magnetic functionalities of metal ions. The inclusion of iron-based species, in particular, can further boost the functionality of the material, owing to iron’s ability to adopt multiple oxidation states and form both high-spin and [...] Read more.
Metallosurfactants combine the unique soft-matter properties of surfactants with magnetic functionalities of metal ions. The inclusion of iron-based species, in particular, can further boost the functionality of the material, owing to iron’s ability to adopt multiple oxidation states and form both high-spin and low-spin complexes. Motivated by this, a series of hybrid inorganic-organic dodecylpyridinium metallosurfactants with iron-containing counterions was developed. It was established that using either divalent or trivalent iron halides in a straightforward synthetic procedure yields C12Py-metallosurfactants with distinct complex counterions: (C12Py)2[Fe2X6O] and (C12Py)[FeX4] (X = Cl or Br), respectively. A combination of techniques—including conductometry, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering, single-crystal and thermogravimetric analysis, and magnetic measurements—provided in-depth insights into their solution and solid-state properties. The presence of different iron-based counterions significantly influences the crystal structure (interdigitated vs. non-interdigitated bilayers), magnetic properties (paramagnetic vs. nonmagnetic singlet ground state), and self-assembly (vesicles vs. micelles) of the dodecylpyridinium series. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the synthesis and characterization of hybrid organic-inorganic metallosurfactants containing the μ-oxo-hexahalo-diferrate anion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Materials: From Synthesis to Applications)
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27 pages, 1659 KiB  
Review
Polymer Inclusion Membranes (PIMs) for Metal Separation—Toward Environmentally Friendly Production and Applications
by Marin Senila
Polymers 2025, 17(6), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17060725 - 10 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1800
Abstract
Polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) have been reported to be useful for the selective separation of numerous metal ions, with multiple applications in areas such as analytical chemistry, water quality monitoring, water treatment, and metal recovery. This review aims to update the recent advancements [...] Read more.
Polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) have been reported to be useful for the selective separation of numerous metal ions, with multiple applications in areas such as analytical chemistry, water quality monitoring, water treatment, and metal recovery. This review aims to update the recent advancements related to PIM technology in metal ion separation, with a particular emphasis on environmentally friendly production and applications. PIMs have many advantages over classical liquid–liquid extraction, such as excellent selectivity, ease of use with simultaneous extraction and back-extraction, stability, and reusability. PIMs typically consist of a base polymer, a carrier, and, if necessary, a plasticizer, and can therefore be tailored to specific analytes and specific matrices. Consequently, numerous studies have been carried out to develop PIMs for specific applications. In analytical chemistry, PIMs have been used mostly for analyte preconcentration, matrix separation, speciation analysis, and sensing. They can be used as passive sampling tools or integrated into automated water monitoring systems. PIMs are also widely studied for the extraction and purification of valuable metals in the frame of the circular economy, as well as for wastewater treatment. Even if they are a greener alternative to classical metal extraction, their production still requires petroleum-based polymers and toxic and volatile solvents. In recent years, there has been a clear trend to replace classical polymers with biodegradable and bio-sourced polymers and to replace the production of PIMs using toxic solvents with those based on green solvents or without solvents. According to the published literature, environmentally friendly PIM-based techniques are a highly recommended area of future research for metal ion separation directed toward a wide range of applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
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18 pages, 2434 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Efficacy of Methylated Gamma-Cyclodextrin (M-γ-CD) in the Removal of Heavy Metals in Soil Systems
by Nontobeko Gloria Maphuhla and Opeoluwa Oyehan Oyedeji
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 2028; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15042028 - 14 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1188
Abstract
Heavy-metal contamination of the environment is a serious worldwide issue, as it presents dangerous threats to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. This has led to a paradigm shift toward the development of simple, user-friendly, and economically viable remediation technologies that are essential [...] Read more.
Heavy-metal contamination of the environment is a serious worldwide issue, as it presents dangerous threats to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. This has led to a paradigm shift toward the development of simple, user-friendly, and economically viable remediation technologies that are essential for addressing heavy-metal soil pollution and for the global preservation of the environment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of environmental remediation strategies using cyclodextrin (CD) and its derivatives. Additionally, this study examines the effectiveness of methylated gamma-cyclodextrin (M-γ-CD) as a modified oligosaccharide for the elimination of toxic elements from impure soil matrices. M-γ-CD has emerged as a potent agent for treating soil impurities with noxious metals. As a modified form of cyclodextrin, M-γ-CD features hydrophobic cavities that are particularly adept at forming inclusion complexes with heavy-metal ions, thereby cumulating the aqueous solubility and efficiency of pollutants in environmental applications and improving soil bioremediation. This paper also reviews the unique structural configuration of M-γ-CD, which significantly enhances the solubility and mobility of cyclodextrins and facilitates the extraction of noxious metal particles such as Ni, Cu, and Pb from soil matrices. Furthermore, M-γ-CD is a promising soil remediation agent due to its capacity to boost contaminant solubility, improve environmental safety, offer cost-effectiveness, ensure adaptability, and minimize impact on soil parameters. Therefore, M-γ-CD is a desirable agent for the elimination of toxic metal impurities from soil. Full article
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16 pages, 6027 KiB  
Article
Efficient Separation of Hydroxylamine from Metal Ions by PIM-ED Process
by Lilei Yang, Zhongwei Ding, Zhengtao Zhu and Weidong Zhang
Separations 2025, 12(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12020024 - 24 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1004
Abstract
Selective separation of hydroxylamine (HA) from metal ions to prepare high-purity HA remains a challenge. In this study, given that HA can react with carbonyl compounds, TTA (thenoyltrifluoroacetone) was screened as a carrier to prepare the polymer inclusion membrane (PIM), which was used [...] Read more.
Selective separation of hydroxylamine (HA) from metal ions to prepare high-purity HA remains a challenge. In this study, given that HA can react with carbonyl compounds, TTA (thenoyltrifluoroacetone) was screened as a carrier to prepare the polymer inclusion membrane (PIM), which was used to separate HA from metal and inorganic acid ions. The experimental results demonstrated that the PIM exhibited good selectivity for HA. During the PIM process, the proton gradient served as a driving force to transport NH2OH(I). The electrodialysis (ED) process was used to efficiently and continuously provide proton gradient without introducing other ions, which coupled with PIM to separate HA. Under the optimum conditions, the separation factors of NH2OH(I)/Na(I) and NH2OH(I)/K(I) were 30.81 and 35.11; the purity of HA was 99.4%, indicating that the PIM-ED process can be used for high-purity preparation of HA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Separation Engineering)
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