Green synthesis of functionalized iron nano particles and molecular liquid phase adsorption of ametryn from water

Advancement in nanomaterials for environmental pollutants remediation: a systematic review on bibliometrics analysis, material types, synthesis pathways, and related mechanisms

Environmental pollution is a major issue that requires effective solutions. Nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as promising candidates for pollution remediation due to their unique properties. This review paper provides a systematic analysis of the potential of NMs for environmental pollution remediation compared to conventional techniques. It elaborates on several aspects, including conventional and advanced techniques for removing pollutants, classification of NMs (organic, inorganic, and composite base). The efficiency of NMs in remediation of pollutants depends on their dispersion and retention, with each type of NM having different advantages and disadvantages. Various synthesis pathways for NMs, including traditional synthesis (chemical and physical) and biological synthesis pathways, mechanisms of reaction for pollutants removal using NMs, such as adsorption, filtration, disinfection, photocatalysis, and oxidation, also are evaluated. Additionally, this review presents suggestions for future investigation strategies to improve the efficacy of NMs in environmental remediation. The research so far provides strong evidence that NMs could effectively remove contaminants and may be valuable assets for various industrial purposes. However, further research and development are necessary to fully realize this potential, such as exploring new synthesis pathways and improving the dispersion and retention of NMs in the environment. Furthermore, there is a need to compare the efficacy of different types of NMs for remediating specific pollutants. Overall, this review highlights the immense potential of NMs for mitigating environmental pollutants and calls for more research in this direction.

Using Magnetic Micelles Combined with Carbon Fiber Ionization Mass Spectrometry for the Screening of Trace Triazine Herbicides from Aqueous Samples

Triazine herbicides are commonly used in agriculture to eliminate weeds. However, they can persist in the environment. In this study, we explored a new method for detecting triazine herbicides in aqueous samples. We selected two triazine herbicides, namely, prometryn and ametryn, as model herbicides. To generate magnetic probes, we mixed aqueous Gd3+ with aqueous sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), which created magnetic probes made of Gd3+-SDS micelles. These probes showed a trapping capacity for the model herbicides. Results indicated that the trapping capacities of our magnetic probes for ametryn and prometryn were approximately 466 and 468 nmol mg-1, respectively. The dissociation constants of our probes toward ametryn and prometryn were 2.92 × 10-5 and 1.27 × 10-5, respectively. This is the first report that the developed magnetic probes can be used to trap triazine herbicides. For detection, we used carbon fiber ionization mass spectrometry (CFI-MS), which can be used to directly detect semi-volatiles from the samples in the condensed phase. Because of the semi-volatility of triazine herbicides, the herbicides trapped by the magnetic probes can be directly analyzed by CFI-MS without any elution steps. In addition, we also demonstrated the feasibility of using our approach for detecting triazine herbicides in lake water and drinking water.

Synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymer by precipitation polymerization for the removal of ametryn

Ametryn (AME) is a triazine herbicide which is mainly used to kill unwanted herbs in crops. Despite its importance in agriculture, the usage of AME also poses a risk to humans and the ecosystem due to its toxicity. Hence, it is important to develop a method for the effective removal of AME from various water sources which is in the form of molecular imprinting polymer (MIP). In this study, MIP of AME was synthesized via precipitation polymerization using AME as the template molecule with three different functional monomers including methacrylic acid (MAA), acrylamide (AAm) and 2-vinylpyridine (2VP). The three different synthesized polymers namely MIP (MAA), MIP (AAm) and MIP (2VP) were characterized using Fourier Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field Emission Electron Microscopy (FESEM). Then, the batch binding study was carried out using all three MIPs in which MIP (MAA) attained the highest rebinding efficiency (93.73%) among the synthesized polymers. The Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were also conducted on the selected MIP (MAA). Adsorption studies including initial concentration, pH and polymer dosage were also conducted on MIP (MAA). In this study, the highest adsorption efficiency was attained at the optimum condition of 6 ppm of AME solution at pH 7 with 0.1 g of MIP (MAA). MIP (MAA) was successfully applied to remove AME from spiked distilled water, tap water and river water samples with removal efficiencies of 95.01%, 90.24% and 88.37%, respectively.

Investigation of the Persistence, Toxicological Effects, and Ecological Issues of S-Triazine Herbicides and Their Biodegradation Using Emerging Technologies: A Review

S-triazines are a group of herbicides that are extensively applied to control broadleaf weeds and grasses in agricultural production. They are mainly taken up through plant roots and are transformed by xylem tissues throughout the plant system. They are highly persistent and have a long half-life in the environment. Due to imprudent use, their toxic residues have enormously increased in the last few years and are frequently detected in food commodities, which causes chronic diseases in humans and mammals. However, for the safety of the environment and the diversity of living organisms, the removal of s-triazine herbicides has received widespread attention. In this review, the degradation of s-triazine herbicides and their intermediates by indigenous microbial species, genes, enzymes, plants, and nanoparticles are systematically investigated. The hydrolytic degradation of substituents on the s-triazine ring is catalyzed by enzymes from the amidohydrolase superfamily and yields cyanuric acid as an intermediate. Cyanuric acid is further metabolized into ammonia and carbon dioxide. Microbial-free cells efficiently degrade s-triazine herbicides in laboratory as well as field trials. Additionally, the combinatorial approach of nanomaterials with indigenous microbes has vast potential and considered sustainable for removing toxic residues in the agroecosystem. Due to their smaller size and unique properties, they are equally distributed in sediments, soil, water bodies, and even small crevices. Finally, this paper highlights the implementation of bioinformatics and molecular tools, which provide a myriad of new methods to monitor the biodegradation of s-triazine herbicides and help to identify the diverse number of microbial communities that actively participate in the biodegradation process.

An ABCG-type transporter intensifies ametryn catabolism by Phase III reaction mechanism in rice

Pesticide residues in food crops are one of the seriously environmental contaminants that risk food safety and human health. Understanding the mechanism for pesticide catabolism is critical to develop effective biotechniques for rapid eliminating the residues in food crops. In this study we characterized a novel ABC transporter family gene ABCG52 (PDR18) in regulating rice response to pesticide ametryn (AME) widely used in the farmland. Efficient biodegradation of AME was evaluated by measuring its biotoxicity, accumulation, and metabolites in rice plants. OsPDR18 was localized to the plasma membrane and strongly induced under AME exposure. Transgenic rice overexpressing OsPDR18 (OE) conferred rice resistance and detoxification to AME by increasing chlorophyll contents, improving growth phenotypes, and reducing AME accumulation in plants. The AME concentrations in OE plants were only 71.8-78.1% (shoots) and 75.0-83.3% (roots) of the wild type. Mutation of OsPDR18 by CRISPR/Cas9 protocol led to the compromised growth and enhanced AME accumulation in rice. Five AME metabolites for Phase I and 13 conjugates for Phase II reactions in rice were characterized by HPLC/Q-TOF-HRMS/MS. Relative content analysis revealed that the AME metabolic products in OE plants were significantly reduced compared with wild-type. Importantly, the OE plants accumulated less AME metabolites and conjugates in rice grains, suggesting that OsPDR18 expression may actively facilitate the transport of AME for catabolism. These data unveil a AME catabolic mechanism by which OsPDR18 contributes to the AME detoxification and degradation in rice crops.

Interpretation of ametryn biodegradation in rice based on joint analyses of transcriptome, metabolome and chemo-characterization

Agrochemicals such as pesticide residues become environmental contaminants due to their ecotoxic risks to plant, animal and human health. Ametryn (AME) is a widely used farmland pesticide and its residues are widespread in soils, surface stream and groundwater. However, its toxicological and degradative mechanisms in plants and food crops are largely unknown. This study comprehensively investigated AME toxicology and degradation mechanisms in a paddy crop. AME was freely absorbed by rice roots, translocated to the above-ground and thus repressed plant elongation, and reduced dry weight and chlorophyll concentration, but increased oxidative injury and subcellular electrolyte permeability. Analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome revealed that exposure to AME evoked global AME-responsive genes and step-wise catabolism of AME. We detected 995 (roots) and 136 (shoots) upregulated and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to AME. Metabolomic profiling revealed that many basal metabolites such as carbohydrates, amino acids, glutathione, hormones and phenylpropanoids involved in AME catabolism were accordingly accumulated in rice. Eight metabolites and twelve conjugates of AME were characterized by HPLC-Q-TOF-HRMS/MS. These AME metabolites and conjugates are closely related to DEGs, differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and activities of antioxidative enzymes. Collectively, our work highlights the specific mechanisms for AME degradative metabolism through Phase I and II reactive pathways (e.g. hydroxylation and dealkylation), with will help develop genetically engineered rice used to bioremediate AME-contaminated paddy soils and minimize AME accumulation rice crops.

A recent update on green synthesized iron and iron oxide nanoparticles for environmental applications

Nanotechnology is considered the budding discipline in various fields of science and technology. In this review, the various synthesis methods of iron and iron oxide nanoparticles were summarised with more emphasis on green synthesis - a sustainable and eco-friendly method. The mechanism of green synthesis of these nanomaterials was reviewed in recent literature. The magnetic properties of these nanomaterials were briefed which makes them unique in the family of nanomaterials. An overview of various removal methods for the pollutants such as dye, heavy metals, and emerging contaminants using green synthesized iron and iron oxide nanoparticles is discussed. The mechanism of pollutant removal methods like Fenton-like degradation, photocatalytic degradation, and adsorption techniques was also detailed. The review is concluded with the challenges and possible future aspects of these nanomaterials for various environmental applications.

Pyropheophorbide-a/(001) TiO2 Nanocomposites with Enhanced Charge Separation and O2 Adsorption for High-Efficiency Visible-Light Degradation of Ametryn

It is highly desired to enhance charge separation and O₂ adsorption of the pyropheophorbide-a (Ppa) to promote visible-light activity and stability. Herein, Ppa modified 001-facet-exposed TiO₂ nanosheets (Ppa/001T) nanocomposites with different weight ratios were fabricated via the self-assembly approach by OH induced. Compared with the bare Ppa, the 8% amount optimized 8Ppa/001T sample displayed 41-fold enhanced activity for degradation of Ametryn (AME) under visible-light irradiation. The promoted photoactivities could be attributed to the accelerated charge carrier’s separation by coupling TiO₂ as thermodynamic platform for accepting the photoelectrons with high energy from Ppa and the promoted O₂ adsorption because of the residual fluoride on TiO₂. As for this, a distinctive two radicals (•O₂⁻ and •OH) involved pathway of AME degradation is carried out, which is different from the radical pathway dominated by •O₂⁻ for the bare Ppa. This work is of utmost importance since it gives us detailed information regarding the charge carrier’s separation and the impact of the radical pathway that will pave a new approach toward the design of high activity visible-light driven photocatalysts.

A comprehensive review on sustainable greener nanoparticles for efficient dye degradation

The effluents released from textile industries mainly consist of dyes, metals and other pollutants. Dyes often are discharged in wastewater streams causing adverse effect on the environment. To eliminate these harmful dyes, various techniques are emerging out of which nanotechnology is the most reliable and safer. Nanotechnology offers convincing applications in case of environmental and economic concerns. The bio-synthesis of nanoparticles has several advantages over conventional methods and approach towards environment concern as well. Biological method of nanoparticles synthesis is concluded to be the most promising and efficient in action. Bio-synthesised nanoparticles could be used for treatment and decolourisation of dyes in an efficient manner. This review comprises the study of number of bio-synthesised nanoparticles utilised for degradation of various dyes present as pollutants in wastewater. Bio-synthesised nanoparticles such as gold, silver, iron, cobalt, zinc, titanium and molybdenum used for degradation of various dyes have been discussed in this review.

Adsorption Kinetics of Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid and Methomyl Pesticides in Aqueous Solution onto Eucalyptus Woodchip Derived Biochar

This work reports the application of a biochar (BC) derived from eucalyptus wood chips to remove pesticides (imidacloprid, acetamiprid and methomyl) from water. The pseudo-second order kinetic adsorption model is the best fit describing the adsorption of pesticides on BC. Furthermore, the Langmuir model correlated well with the adsorption isotherm data for acetamiprid and methomyl, while the Freundlich model was selected to explain the adsorption of imidacloprid on BC. The maximum adsorption capacities for methomyl, imidacloprid and acetamiprid on the BC material are 32.42, 14.75 and 4.87 mg g−1, respectively. The highest adsorption capacity of methomyl on the BC surface could be the result of multilayer adsorption suggested by the adsorption isotherm studies, with imidacloprid (or acetamiprid) monolayer being adsorbed on the BC surface. The structure, functional groups of pesticides, including their polarity, all played an important role contributing to the performance of biochar sorbent. Preferable interactions between the studied pesticides and the BC surface may include π-π interactions and hydrogen bonding. The steric aromatic entity in adsorbed imidacloprid and acetamiprid on the BC surface may hinder the possibility of other pesticide molecules approaching the available sorption sites on the surface.

A review on recent trends in the removal of emerging contaminants from aquatic environment using low-cost adsorbents

Emerging contaminants (ECs), a class of contaminants with low concentrations but significant harm, have received a lot of attention in recent times. ECs comprises of various chemicals that enter the environment every day. In today's modern lifestyle, we use many chemical-based products. These persist in wastewater and ultimately enter the water bodies, causing serious problems to the human and aquatic ecosystem. This is because the conventional wastewater treatment methods are inefficient in identifying and removing such contaminants. Aiming for a long-term, effective solution to this issue, Adsorption was proposed. Although several adsorbents are already present in the market, which have proved beneficial in removing such ECs, not all are affordable. This article reviews replacing costly adsorbents with agriculture-based biomass that are abundant, inexpensive, and biodegradable and possess excellent adsorption capacity. The objectives of this article is to look at adsorption as a viable treatment option for emerging pollutants, as well as sophisticated and cost-effective emerging contaminants treatment options.

Optimization and application of QuEChERS and SPE methods followed by LC-PDA for the determination of triazines residues in fruits and vegetables from Pietermaritzburg local supermarkets

QuEChERS and solid phase extraction (SPE) methods were optimized and applied for the extraction of triazines in fruit and vegetables. These extraction methods are easy, effective, rugged and safe. Also, they have the ability to purify the extracts which leads to lower detection limits and higher recoveries of the analytes. The analysis were conducted using liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array detector. The limits of detection and quantification ranged from 0.4 -1.4 µg/kg and 1.5 - 4.5 µg/kg, respectively, for QuEChERS and 0.3 - 1.8 µg/kg and 1.4 - 4.9 µg/kg respectively, for SPE. The recoveries ranged from 84 to 102% for QuEChERS and 76-119% for SPE, with relative standard deviation less than 20% for both methods. The fruits and vegetables analysed were apples, pears, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, spinach, bananas, and oranges. The concentrations detected ranged between 6 and 46 µg/kg in fruits and 4 - 84 µg/kg in vegetables. Simazine was detected in all fruits and vegetable samples except in pear, while terbutylazine was not detected in all samples analysed. Propazine and ametryn were only found in carrot while pear sample only had atrazine. The proposed methods proved to be sensitive and accurate indicating their applicability for detection and monitoring of the selected triazines in fruits and vegetables. However, QuEChERS can be recommended for routine analysis of these triazines due to its fewer extraction steps compared to SPE which is important for turn-around time.

pH-responsive zwitterionic carbon dots for detection of rituximab antibody

Zwitterionic carbon dots (CDs) have received much attention as a result of good photostability, high biocompatibility, and high quantum yield. In this study, novel zwitterionic CDs were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method of citric acid (CA) and l-histidine as carbon and nitrogen precursors, respectively. Prepared zwitterionic CDs have an average particle size of 4 nm diameter and showed green fluorescence with a peak at 530 nm when excited at 470 nm; quantum efficiency was 39.34% using rhodamine 6G as a baseline. The fluorescence intensity of zwitterionic CDs was quenched by rituximab in the range 0-400 μmol L^-1 , with a limit of detection of 27 μmol L^-1 . In addition, the synthesized zwitterionic CDs had low toxicity, good stability, and high selectivity and sensitivity sensing for rituximab, therefore zwitterionic CDs are a promising candidate for practical applications.

Green-synthesized nanocatalysts and nanomaterials for water treatment: Current challenges and future perspectives

Numerous hazardous environmental pollutants in water bodies, both organic and inorganic, have become a critical global issue. As greener and bio-synthesized versions of nanoparticles exhibit significant promise for wastewater treatment, this review discusses trends and future prospects exploiting the sustainable applications of green-synthesized nanocatalysts and nanomaterials for the removal of contaminants and metal ions from aqueous solutions. Recent trends and challenges about these nanocatalysts and nanomaterials and their potential applications in wastewater treatment and water purification are highlighted including toxicity and biosafety issues. This review delineates the pros and cons and critical issues pertaining to the deployment of these nanomaterials endowed with their superior surface area, mechanical properties, significant chemical reactivity, and cost-effectiveness with low energy consumption, for removal of hazardous materials and contaminants from water; comprehensive coverage of these materials for industrial wastewater remediation, and their recovery is underscored by recent advancements in nanofabrication, encompassing intelligent and smart nanomaterials.

Advances in Template Prepared Nano-Oxides and their Applications: Polluted Water Treatment, Energy, Sensing and Biomedical Drug Delivery

The nano-oxide materials with special structures prepared by template methods have a good dispersion, regular structures and high specific surface areas. Therefore, in some areas, improved properties are observed than conventional bulk oxide materials. For example, in the treatment of dye wastewater, the treatment efficiency of adsorbents and catalytic materials prepared by template method was about 30 % or even higher than that of conventional samples. This review mainly focuses on the progress of inorganic, organic and biological templates in the preparation of micro- and nano- oxide materials with special morphologies, and the roles of the prepared materials as adsorbents and photocatalysts in dye wastewater treatment. The characteristics and advantages of inorganic, organic and biological template are also summarized. In addition, the applications of template method prepared oxides in the field of sensors, drug carrier, energy materials and other fields are briefly discussed with detailed examples.

Process Optimization and Modeling of Methylene Blue Adsorption Using Zero-Valent Iron Nanoparticles Synthesized from Sweet Lime Pulp

The presence of dyes in waterbodies poses severe problems in human and aquatic creatures, and the development of treatment methods for the removal of these pollutants is of utmost importance. This research study investigates the elimination of methylene blue (MB) from an aqueous solution using zero-valent iron nanoparticles synthesized from sweet lime pulp waste (nZVISLP). The purity, chemical composition, and crystalline size of nZVISLP were investigated using microscopic and spectroscopic studies. A maximum MB removal efficiency of 98.9% was obtained at the following optimal conditions: C0: 10 mg/L, dosage: 1.2 g/L, and temperature: 25 °C. To understand the adsorptive removal characteristics of nZVISLP, the investigational adsorption data were tested with conventional kinetic and isotherm models. Furthermore, a differential evolution optimization (DEO) technique was used to estimate the optimal intrinsic parameters in the isotherm and kinetic models. For the various evaluated isotherms, the correlation coefficient (R2) values for the Freundlich and Sips isotherm models were ~0.98, thus confirming the aptness of these isotherms to represent MB adsorption onto nZVISLP. The robustness of non-linear models was verified by statistical metrics, thus validating the performance of the optimization technique. The results derived from this study affirm the potential of an ecofriendly biogenic nanomaterial, nZVISLP, for MB adsorptive removal.

Suitability of aluminum material on sugar industry wastewater with chemical and electrochemical treatment processes

Aluminum is a valuable material, which can be used for water and wastewater treatment. It exists in metal as well as in salt form. The efficiency of water and wastewater treatment depends upon the technology applied to treat. Sugarcane industry is coming under those industries which have a large amount of freshwater and release large amount of effluent. The goal of this research work is to study the behavior of aluminum metal and salt for the treatment of sugar industry wastewater on chemical oxidation and electrochemical oxidation. The effect of pH, dosing, temperature and catalysis on metal and salt has been also studied with both treatment methods. The results show that maximum 90% of chemical oxygen demand and 94% of color removal can be achieved with an aluminum electrode (electrocoagulation) at optimum conditions, pH 7, current density 178 A/m2, electrode distance 20 mm, and salt solution 0.5 M NaCl. In the same way, 81% chemical oxygen demand and 85% color removal were achieved with alum for the 0.5 M lime solution, at 50 mM mass loading, 21 °C operating temperature and optimum pH of 7, respectively. The sludge generated after treatment was also analyzed with settling filtration, thermal, FTIR and SEM.

Biogenic platinum nanoparticles using black cumin seed and their potential usage as antimicrobial and anticancer agent

Herein, the biogenic platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) were synthesized by using black cumin seed (Nigella sativa L.) extract as a reducing agent. The biogenic platinum nanoparticles synthesized by black cumin seed extract was characterized in detail by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), UV-vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). According to TEM analysis, Pt nanoparticles have spherical shapes and sizes between 1-6 nm. Moreover, the biogenic Pt NPs was assessed for its cytotoxicity effect on MDA-MB-231 breast and HeLa cervical cancer lines and their antibacterial effect against selected strains of gram-positive and negative bacteria. The cytotoxicity and bacterial tests showed the effectiveness of biogenic Pt nanoparticles. Dose-dependent toxicity effects were shown in the MDA-MB-231 breast and HeLa cervical cancer lines (IC50: 36.86 μg/mL and 19.83 μg/mL, respectively). In addition, Pt NPs showed high zone diameters against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria at concentrations of 100 and 500 μg/ml. These results contribute to the development of the pharmaceutical industry as a potential antibacterial and anticancer agent.

Enantioselective degradation of dufulin pesticide in water: Uptake, thermodynamics, and kinetics studies

Kudzu (Pueraria thunbergiana) plant extract impregnated sediments were used for abiotic and biotic uptakes and biodegradation. The optimized conditions were 25 μg L^-1 concentration, 7 days for abiotic uptake and 56 days for biotic uptake and biodegradation, dose 2 g L^-1 , 7 pH, and 35°C temperature. The amount removed of dufulin was 32.6% in abiotic conditions while these were 90% in the case of biotic uptake and biodegradation. Enantioselective biodegradation indicated that S-(+)-enantiomer degraded faster (90%) than R-(-)-enantiomer (87%). The data for abiotic and biotic uptakes and biodegradation followed well Langmuir, thermodynamics, and kinetics models. All these processes followed pseudo first-order kinetics. It was observed that biodegradation was three times responsible for dufulin removal than simple sorption uptake (abiotic and biotic). The abiotic and biotic uptakes and biodegradation were quite fast and endothermic nature. The developed method may be used to remove the racemic and enantiomeric dufulin in water.

Potentiality of the Phoma sp. inactive fungal biomass, a waste from the bioherbicide production, for the treatment of colored effluents

The potentiality of Phoma sp. inactive fungal biomass, waste from the bioherbicide production, was evaluated for the treatment of colored effluents containing Acid Red 18 (AR 18) dye. The batch experiments were performed to evaluate the following parameters: pH of the solution (2-10), dye concentration (50-200 mg L^-1), adsorbent dose (0.5-2.5 g L^-1), contact time (0-180 min) and temperature (298-328 K). The batch experiments using a synthetic dye solution revealed that Phoma sp. was efficient at pH of 2.0, 298 K and using a dosage of 1.25 g L^-1. The process was fast, being the equilibrium reached within 180 min. The maximum value of biosorption capacity was 63.58 mg g^-1, being the process favorable and exothermic. From the fixed bed assays, breakthrough curves were obtained, presenting a mass transfer zone of 7.08 cm and breakthrough time of 443 min. Phoma sp. was efficient to decolorize a simulated effluent, removing more than 90% of the color. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that Phoma sp. inactive biomass is a low-cost option to treat colored effluents in continuous and discontinuous biosorption modes. These indicate that Phoma sp. of inactive biomass is an option for the treatment of colored effluents.

Arsenic Removal from Mining Effluents Using Plant-Mediated, Green-Synthesized Iron Nanoparticles

Arsenic contamination in industrial and mining effluents has always been a serious concern. Recently, nano-sized iron particles have been proven effective in sorptive removal of arsenic, because of their unique surface characteristics. In this study, green synthesis of iron nanoparticles was performed using a mixed extract of two plant species, namely Prangos ferulacea and Teucrium polium, for the specific purpose of arsenic (III) removal from the aqueous environment. Results of UV-visible spectrometry, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed the formation of iron nanoparticles from Prangos ferulacea (Pf) and Teucrium polium (Tp) extracts. The synthesized Fe nanoparticles morphology was studied via microscopy imaging. The particle size was 42 nm, as assessed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis. Adsorption experiments were also designed and performed, which indicated 93.8% arsenic removal from the aqueous solution at 200 rpm agitation rate, 20 min agitation time, pH 6, initial concentration of 0.1 g/L, and adsorbent dosage of 2 g/L. Adsorption isotherm models were investigated, and the maximum uptake capacity was determined to be about 61.7 mg/g. The kinetic data were best represented by the pseudo-second kinetic model (R2 = 0.99). The negative value of Gibbs free energy, the enthalpy (−7.20 kJ/mol), and the entropy (−57 J/mol.K) revealed the spontaneous and exothermic nature of the adsorption process. Moreover, the small quantity of the activation energy confirmed the physical mechanism of arsenic adsorption onto iron nanoparticles and that the process is not temperature sensitive.

Indolocarbazole based polymer coated super adsorbent polyurethane sponges for oil/organic solvent removal

The synthesis of an indolocarbazole-fluorene based conjugated polymer (ICZP6), by Sonogashira coupling reaction, has been presented. The ICZP6 has then been integrated with a nano iron oxide embedded polyurethane foam (ICZP6PUF) to develop a promising adsorbent for oil/organic contaminants in aqueous systems. The anchoring ability of ICZP6 on to iron oxide PU sponge switches on significant hydrophobicity within the whole molecular assembly. The cooperative effects of ICZP6-iron oxide- PU sponge system have been highlighted in terms of structural, microscopic and wettability characteristics. The heterogeneity and hierarchical porous structure of the system offer a high adsorption capability for different types of oils and organic contaminants in water, typically in the range of 100-240 gg^-1. The performance of ICZP6PUF has been confirmed by the fast (within 5-10s) and choosy removal of selected oils and organic solvents from polluted water with the aid of an external magnetic field. The adsorbed materials (oil/organic solvents) can be separated from the adsorbent by simple mechanical squeezing without causing any structural deformation or performance deterioration; with a reusability of the system over 50 cycles. The adsorption isotherm has been found to fit well with the Langmuir model with R² = 0.9484. To extent the scope of the ICZP6PUF hybrid, an integrative logic gate has been designed.

Preparation of carbonaceous materials from pyrolysis of chicken bones and its application for fuchsine adsorption

Activated carbon and biochar were obtained from chicken bone (CB), characterized, and applied to remove basic fuchsine from aqueous media. The adsorbent dosage and pH effects were studied, as well as kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic curves were constructed. The values of BET surface area and total pore volume were 108.94 m2 g-1 and 0.219 cm3 g-1 for the activated carbon and, 18.72 m2 g-1 and 0.075 cm3 g-1 for the biochar. The dye removal percentages were 93.63 and 55.38% when 2.5 g L-1 of activated carbon and biochar were used, respectively. The adsorption was favored using 0.5 g L-1 of adsorbent and pH of 7.0. Adsorption kinetics was well represented by the pseudo-second-order model. Langmuir model was the best to represent the equilibrium. Maximum adsorption capacity was 260.8 mg g-1, obtained using activated carbon. The process was endothermic, favorable, and spontaneous. Results showed that alternative carbonaceous materials can be obtained from chicken bones and used as adsorbents to treat colored effluents containing fuchsine.

Application of Composite NanoMaterial to Determine Phenols in Wastewater by Solid Phase Micro Membrane Tip Extraction and Capillary Electrophoresis

Composite nanoparticles were used in solid phase micro membrane tip extraction and capillary electrophoresis to determine phenol and p-amino-phenol in wastewater. The optimized conditions were 100 g/L concentration, 40 min contact time, 11 pH, 5 mg/mL nanoparticles amounts, 60 min desorption time, 9 desorption pH and 298 K temperature. Capillary electrophoresis conditions were phosphate buffer (15 mM, pH 7.0) background electrolyte, 18 kV applied voltage, 214 nm UV detection, 30 s sample loading at 23 ± 1 °C. The maximum percent uptakes of p-amino-phenol and phenol were 80.0 and 85.0%. High ratio recoveries of p-amino-phenol and phenol from nanomaterial were 99.0 and 98. Consequently, the actual extractions of p-amino-phenol and phenol from wastewater were 79.2 and 83.30 percent. The migration times of phenol and p-amino-phenol and were 9.0 and 12.0 min. The detection limits of phenol and p-amino-phenols were 0.1 and 0.2 µg/L after extraction and CE. Therefore, this combination of solid phase micro membrane tip extraction and capillary electrophoresis may be considered as the ideal one for monitoring of toxic phenol and p-amino-phenol in water sample.

Role of Unani Medicines in Cancer Control and Management

Background:

Cancer is a havoc and killer disease. Several ways including allopathic chemotherapy have been used in the cancer treatment. Allopathic chemotherapy has several limitations and side effects. Unani medicine is also one of the therapies to cure cancer.

Objective:

In this type of treatment, herbal drugs are used for the treatment and prevention of cancer. The main attractive thing about herbal drug is no side effect as compared to allopathic chemotherapy.

Methods:

Actually, herbal drugs are the extracts of medicinal plants. The plant extracts are obtained by crushing and heating the main part of the plants; showing anticancer activity. The main plants used in the treatment of cancer are oroxylum indicum, dillenia indica, terminalia arjuna etc.

Results:

Mainly the cancers treated are of digestive system, breast, cervical, brain, blood, bone, lungs, thyroid, uterine, bladder, throat etc.

Conclusion:

The present review article discusses the importance of Unani system of medicine for the treatment of cancer. Besides, the future perspectives of Unani medicine in cancer treatment are also highlighted.

Effect of the mole ratio of Mn/Fe composites on arsenic (V) adsorption

Iron and manganese have been studied as a proposal for new materials that could be used for the adsorption of arsenic (V) (As (V)), in order to remove this contaminant. The objective of this work was to study the effect of the molar ratio of three Mn/Fe+Mn composites (X=0.17, 0.32, 0.47) on the properties of adsorbent media, and to determine their influence on arsenic removal by comparing them with two metallic oxyhydroxides, that are commonly used as adsorbents of As(V) in aqueous solution (goethite and birnessite). These media were synthesized by chemical precipitation while controlling particle size. They were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XDR), scanning electron microscopy with X-ray dispersive energy spectrometry (SEM-EDS), surface area analysis by the BET method, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and isoelectric point analysis (IEP). The surface area (286m²/g) of the composite with a molar ratio of X=0.17 was larger than that of the other media. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms were fitted to the mathematical models, specifically, the pseudo-second order and Langmuir, respectively. The X=017 composite had an adsorption capacity of 3.28mg/g and removed 99% of As(V) with an initial concentration of 0.5 and 97% with an initial concentration of 10mg/L, at 180min, 25°C, and pH7. The five adsorbent media were tested with well water with an initial As(V) concentration of 0.075mg/L, and the best behavior was exhibited with a molar ratio of X=0.17 at 90min, resulting in 100% removal of As(V). The results suggest that this material is an effective and viable alternative to remove this contaminant from water.

Graphene based adsorbents for remediation of noxious pollutants from wastewater

The contamination of water resources with noxious pollutants is a serious issue. Many aquatic systems are contaminated with different toxic inorganic and organic species; coming to wastewater from various anthropogenic sources such as industries, agriculture, mining, and domestic households. Keeping in view of this, wastewater treatment appears to the main environmental challenge. Adsorption is one of the most efficient techniques for removing all most all types of pollutants i.e. inorganics and organics. Nowadays, graphene and its composite materials are gaining importance as nano adsorbents. Graphene; a two-dimensional nanomaterial having single-atom graphite layer; has attracted a great interest in many application areas (including wastewater treatment) due to its unique physico-chemical properties. The present paper is focused on the remediation of noxious wastes from wastewater using graphene based materials as adsorbents, and it contains all the details on materials - i.e., from their synthesis to application in the field of wastewater treatment (removal of hazardous contaminants of different chemical nature - heavy and rare-earth metal ions, and organic compounds - from wastewater effluents. The efficiency of the adsorption and desorption of these substances is considered. Certainly, this article will be useful for nano environmentalist to design future experiments for water treatment.

Syagrus oleracea-activated carbon prepared by vacuum pyrolysis for methylene blue adsorption

This work aims to produce activated carbon from the endocarp of Syagrus oleracea by vacuum pyrolysis and evaluate its potential as an adsorbent. The effects of pyrolysis temperature (400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C), particle diameter (0.467 mm, 0.267 mm, and lower than 0.234 mm), and activation agent (H₂SO₄, H₂PO₃, and KOH) on the potential for methylene blue adsorption were investigated. In addition, kinetics and adsorption equilibrium were evaluated. The best condition found was particle diameter < 0.234 mm, final pyrolysis temperature of 700 °C, and using KOH. Adsorption kinetics followed pseudo-second order, with equilibrium reached within 20 min. Isotherms followed the Freundlich model. Values of adsorption capacity were in the order of 30 mg/g. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that adsorption occurred spontaneously with a reduction in the heterogeneity of the solid interface/solution. The results obtained demonstrate the great adsorption capacity of the activated carbon prepared from endocarp of Syagrus oleracea via vacuum pyrolysis for the removal of up to 98% methylene blue from aqueous solutions.

Process optimisation for green synthesis of zero-valent iron nanoparticles using Mentha piperita

The potential of Mentha piperita in the iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) production was evaluated for the first time. The influences of the variables such as incubation time, temperature, and volume ratio of the extract to metal ions on the nanoparticle size were investigated using central composite design. The appearance of SPR bands at 284 nm in UV-Vis spectra of the mixtures verified the nanoparticle formation. Incubating the aqueous extract and metal precursor with 1.5 volume ratio at 50°C for 30 min leads to the formation of the smallest nanoparticles with the narrowest size distribution. At the optimal condition, the nanoparticles were found to be within the range of 35-50 nm. Experimental measurements of the average nanoparticle size were fitted well to the polynomial model satisfactory with R2 of 0.9078. Among all model terms, the linear term of temperature, the quadratic terms of temperature, and mixing volume ratio have the significant effects on the nanoparticle average size. FeNPs produced at the optimal condition were characterised by transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The observed weight loss in the TGA curve confirms the encapsulation of FeNPs by the biomolecules of the extract which were dissociated by heat.