Formulation of zwitter-ionic terpolymeric hydrogels and their comprehensive rheological investigation

Facile synthesis and optimization of Acacia senegal gum hydrogel for kinetically treated adsorptive removal of targeted industrial effluents

This context summarizes a detail on the fabrication of Acacia senegal Gum Hydrogel (ASGh) within well-engineered microemulsion, and thereafter chemical modification for environmental remediation. In brief, Divinylsulfone was used to crosslink polymeric chains and produce ASGh in ˂50 μm size within the reverse-microemulsion of Natrium-bis-(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate in gasoline. ASGh were subjected to chemical modification via versatile diethylenetriamine to produce m-[ASGh] for adsorptive removal of methyl orange (MO), eosin Y (EY) and congo red (CR) from waste-water. ASGh and m-[ASGh] were characterized through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and zeta potential measurements. For instance, FT-IR spectra depicted new bands upon Diethylenetriamine modification. The zeta potential measurements confirm a positively charged surface of m-[ASGh] upon Diethylenetriamine addition. Interestingly, 0.05 g m-[ASGh] demonstrated 91.0, 84.1, and 73.0 % removal efficiency towards MO, EY and CR, respectively in 2 h equilibrium time. Langmuir, Freundlich and modified-Freundlich isotherms were applied to further delineate adsorption data. Modified-Freundlich model depicted comparatively more agreeable fit, and delivered R2 value nearer to unity. Further, 143 mg·g-1, 130 mg·g-1 and, 116 mg·g-1 maximum adsorption capacity (QM) was represented by m-[ASGh] towards MO, EY and CR, respectively in 2 h. Interestingly, real water sample were tested whereby, the QM against MO, EY and CR was 146 mg·g-1, 132 mg·g-1 and, 111 mg·g-1, respectively in 2 h equilibrium time. To conclude, m-[ASGh] could be treated as decolorizing agent in real waste-water polluted through negatively charged organic pollutants, particularly MO.

Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Temperature-Sensitive Hydrogel Containing Inorganic Salts for Forest Fire Suppression

Effective forest fire suppression remains a critical challenge, necessitating innovative solutions. Temperature-sensitive hydrogels represent a promising avenue in this endeavor. Traditional firefighting methods often struggle to address forest fires efficiently while mitigating ecological harm and optimizing resource utilization. In this study, a novel intelligent temperature-sensitive hydrogel was prepared specially for forest fire extinguishment. Utilizing a one-pot synthesis approach, this material demonstrates exceptional fluidity at ambient temperatures, facilitating convenient application and transport. Upon exposure to elevated temperatures, it undergoes a phase transition to form a solid, barrier-like structure essential for containing forest fires. The incorporation of environmentally friendly phosphorus salts into the chitosan/hydroxypropyl methylcellulose gel system enhances the formation of temperature-sensitive hydrogels, thereby enhancing their structural integrity and firefighting efficacy. Morphological and thermal stability analyses elucidate the outstanding performance, with the hydrogel forming a dense carbonized layer that acts as a robust barrier against the spread of forest fires. Additionally, comprehensive evaluations employing rheological tests, cone calorimeter tests, a swelling test, and infrared thermography reveal the multifaceted roles of temperature-sensitive hydrogels in forest fire prevention and suppression strategies.