Atomic Layer Deposition of Metal Oxide on Nanocellulose for Enabling Microscopic Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposites

Metal Oxides Nanomaterials and Nanocomposite-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Healthcare Applications

Wide-ranging research efforts have been directed to prioritize scientific and technological inventions for healthcare monitoring. In recent years, the effective utilization of functional nanomaterials in various electroanalytical measurements realized a rapid, sensitive, and selective detection and monitoring of a wide range of biomarkers in body fluids. Owing to good biocompatibility, high organic capturing ability, strong electrocatalytic activity, and high robustness, transition metal oxide-derived nanocomposites have led to enhancements in sensing performances. The aim of the present review is to describe key advancements of transition metal oxide nanomaterials and nanocomposites-based electrochemical sensors, along with current challenges and prospects towards the development of a highly durable and reliable detection of biomarkers. Moreover, the preparation of nanomaterials, electrode fabrication, sensing mechanism, electrode-bio interface, and performance of metal oxides nanomaterials and nanocomposite-based sensor platforms will be described.

Reinforcement Efficiency of Cellulose Microfibers for the Tensile Stiffness and Strength of Rigid Low-Density Polyurethane Foams

Rigid low-density closed-cell polyurethane (PU) foams are widely used in both thermal insulation and structural applications. The sustainability of PU foam production can be increased by using bio-based components and fillers that ensure both enhanced mechanical properties and higher renewable material content. Such bio-based foams were produced using polyols derived from rapeseed oil and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) fibers as filler. The effect of MCC fiber loading of up to 10 wt % on the morphology, tensile stiffness, and strength of foams has been evaluated. For estimation of the mechanical reinforcement efficiency of foams, a model allowing for the partial alignment of filler fibers in foam struts was developed and validated against test results. It is shown that although applying MCC fibers leads to modest gains in the mechanical properties of PU foams compared with cellulose nanocrystal reinforcement, it may provide a higher content of renewable material in the foams.

A Shape Recovery Zwitterionic Bacterial Cellulose Aerogel with Superior Performances for Water Remediation

Severe water pollution has placed a heavy burden on the ecological environment on which humans rely. Effective approaches to mitigating this worldwide issue are in great demand. Here in this work, an organic-inorganic bacterial cellulose aerogel was fabricated through a freeze-drying technique and a step-by-step coating method. The as-prepared aerogel possessed an intact three-dimensional porous structure, an ultralow density, and shape recovery performance. Ag₂O nanoparticles were uniformly and firmly dispersed on the cellulose skeleton, endowing the as-prepared aerogel with an excellent photocatalytic degradation property of methylene blue and great recyclability. The aerogel with zwitterionic compounds attached through the effect of silane exhibited superhydrophilicity, superoleophilicity, and underwater superoleophobicity as well as underoil superhydrophobicity, and it could separate oil/water mixtures with high efficiency. This environmentally friendly bacterial cellulose aerogel equipped with multifunctionality showed great potential for wide application in water treatment fields.