International Journal of Industrial Chemistry
Publisher Change Announcement: Since the publication of Issue 2, Volume 14 (October 2023), the International Journal of Industrial Chemistry has been published by OICC Press (https://oiccpress.com/), and manuscript submission can be made via this link: https://mc04.manuscriptcentral.com/ijic OICC Press Contact details: Address: Stroud Court, Oxford Road, Eynsham, Witney, OX29 4DA, Oxfordshire, UK. Tel: +44 1865 884350 E-mail address: contact@oiccpress.com Contact & Complaint form: https://oiccpress.com/index/en/contact International Journal of Industrial Chemistry (IJIC) [ISSN: 2228-5970, E-ISSN: 2228-5547] is an open-access, free of charge and peer-reviewed journal published every three months (four issues per year) by the OICC Press and distributed in the world is an international scientific journal. Journal DOI: 10.57647/IJIC Journal Abbreviation: Int J Ind Chem Journal Title Acronym: IJIC Journal Owner: Islamic Azad University Publisher: Islamic Azad University, Co-publishing: OICC Press, UK We are now utilising the ScholarOne ManuscriptsTM platform (https://mc04.manuscriptcentral.com/ijic) to enhance the submission and peer-review processes. This change has streamlined our operations and will make your experience as an author/reviewer more efficient. The new Editor-in-chief and Director-in-charge have started their work at the IJIC on 5th October 2023.
Evaluation of Enzyme Activity Measurement Methods: Application of a Glucometer as a Rapid and Low-Cost Alternative to HPLC
Glucose isomerase (GI) catalyzes the reversible conversion of glucose to fructose and plays a major role in producing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Accurate and rapid measurement of GI activity is essential for process optimization and quality control. This study compared two analytical methods—high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and a portable glucometer—for determining GI activity in recombinant Escherichia coli BL21 cultures grown under various conditions. Enzyme activity was quantified by monitoring glucose consumption and fructose production. Statistical analysis, including regression and independent t-tests, revealed a strong correlation between glucometer and HPLC results (R² = 0.96, p = 0.0001) with no significant difference in mean activities. The findings demonstrate that the glucometer, despite its simplicity and low cost, provides reliable data comparable to HPLC. This approach provides a rapid and cost-effective alternative for routine glucose isomerase activity screening in laboratory and industrial settings.
Copyright (c) 2025 Saloomeh Shoaei Naeeni, Bijan Bambai, Bagher Yakhchali, Parvaneh Saffarian, Zarrin Minuchehr (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Development of a Hybrid α-Fe₂O₃-ZnO Photocatalyst Supported on Clinoptilolite for Pharmaceutical Pollutant Degradation
Currently, it is well recognized that the protection and restoration of the fresh water sources is vital. In the current paper, α-Fe2O3/ZnO nanophotocatalysts supported on the surface of Clinoptilolite (CP) – (α-Fe2O3/ZnO/CP) using the solid-state dispersion (SSD) method was employed to degrade Atenolol (ATL) in aquatic environments. The UV/H2O2 process was used in this regard. All products were characterized by using FTIR, SEM, EDX and XRD. In order to reach optimal conditions, a full-factorial experimental design was used where the parameters affecting on the degradation including ATL concentration, catalyst loading, H2O2 concentration, pH, and catalyst composition were taken into account at three levels. ATL degradation was monitored using UV/VIS spectroscopy at λ = 224 nm. The final results indicated that the optimal conditions for reaching maximum degradation(x%=95.73) were as follows: ATL concentration = 10 mgL-1, catalyst concentration = 300 mgL-1, H2O2 concentration = 1 mgL-1, pH = 9, chemical composition = Fe (75%), Zn (25%) and reaction time 75min. A first-order reaction with k = 0.0036 min-1 was observed for the photocatalytic degradation reaction.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mozhgan Zafari, Mohammad Reza Abedi, Hassan Ali Zamani, Mahmoud Ebrahimi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Altitude Dependent Flavonoid Glycoside Profiles of Iranian Morus nigra L. Leaves Analyzed by UPLC-DAD- QTOF/MS
Morus nigra L. (Moraceae) is one of Iran’s notable native species, valued for its medicinal and nutritional properties, particularly in its foliage. The species is widely distributed across Iran, from arid lowlands to high-altitude regions, where environmental conditions can influence plant metabolite composition. In this study, leaves from 15 Iranian M. nigra varieties were analyzed to investigate their flavonoid profiles and the effect of altitude on metabolite accumulation. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detection and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-QTOF/MS) was employed for precise qualitative and quantitative analysis. Seven flavonoids were identified, including isoquercitrin, kaempferol methyl ether glucuronide, quercetin, and rutin, confirming the reliability of the analytical method. Quantitative analysis revealed that flavonoid accumulation increased with altitude, with samples from the highest elevation exhibiting the greatest total flavonol content (1026.1 ± 79.4 mg/g). These findings highlight that geographical factors, particularly altitude, play a significant role in determining flavonoid content in M. nigra leaves. The study provides new insights into the distribution of bioactive flavonoids in mulberry leaves and underscores their potential as stable, industrially valuable ingredients with antioxidant and functional properties. The results also offer guidance for optimizing cultivation and harvesting strategies to maximize flavonoid yield, supporting the development of mulberry leaf extracts for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bahareh Torabi Sefidabi, Fariba Sharifnia, Fahimeh Salimpour, Seyed Mehdi Talebi, Maryam Peyvandi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing Carbon Dioxide Solubility and Interfacial Behavior in Saline Systems Using Diamine-Functionalized Silica Nanoparticles
Understanding and enhancing carbon dioxide (CO₂) solubility and interfacial behavior in saline aqueous systems are critical for improving the efficiency of subsurface CO₂ sequestration and related applications. In this study, diamine-functionalized silica nanoparticles were synthesized using N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AEAPTMS) and systematically evaluated for their ability to enhance CO₂ solubility and reduce CO₂ –brine interfacial tension (IFT) under reservoir-relevant conditions. CO₂ solubility measurements were conducted in fresh water, formation brine (FB), and single-salt solutions with controlled ionic strength over a wide range of temperatures (25–80 °C) and pressures (up to 300 bar). The results show that the synthesized nanoparticles significantly enhance CO₂ solubility in both low- and high-salinity environments, with an optimal nanoparticle concentration of 2000 ppm. Despite the strong salting-out effect observed at elevated ionic strength, nanoparticle addition consistently mitigated salinity-induced solubility reduction. IFT measurements further confirmed that AEAPTMS-functionalized silica nanoparticles effectively reduce CO₂–brine IFT across all investigated pressures. The combined solubility and interfacial results demonstrate that surface-engineered silica nanoparticles provide a robust and effective strategy for improving CO₂ –aqueous phase interactions in complex brine systems. This work offers new mechanistic insights into nanoparticle-assisted CO₂ behavior and highlights the potential of chemically tailored nanomaterials for enhancing CO₂ storage performance in saline reservoirs.
AEAPTMS-functionalized silica nanoparticles
Copyright (c) 2025 Moslem Cheraghi, Mohammad Amin Gholamzadeh, Amin Azdarpour, Ali Borsalani, Mohammad Reza Asghari Ganjeh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Thermo-Responsive Hydrophobically Associative Terpolymer for Enhanced Oil Recovery: Synthesis, Characterization, and Micromodel Evaluation
Polymer flooding represents a key chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique to improve displacement efficiency in heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs, where residual oil is trapped by capillary forces and early water channeling reduces sweep efficiency. This study evaluates a high-molecular-weight acrylamide-maleic anhydride-styrene terpolymer for EOR in challenging reservoir environments, focusing on its rheological stability, viscoelastic behavior, and displacement performance under controlled micromodel flooding experiments. Micromodels, fabricated from CT scans of carbonate cores to replicate reservoir heterogeneity (porosity 58.97%, average pore radius 14.16 μm, total pore volume 0.230 cm³), were used to assess polymer solutions at concentrations of 500, 750, and 1000 ppm. Experiments varied injection rates (0.005–0.02 mL/min) to examine front stability and sweep efficiency, salinity levels (seawater, 2×SW, 3×SW) to simulate ionic strengths of reservoir brines, and temperatures (25°C, 50°C, 80°C) to evaluate thermal stability and viscosity retention in reservoir-like conditions. Results demonstrate the terpolymer's ability to maintain performance across these parameters, enhancing macroscopic sweep and oil mobilization while addressing limitations of conventional polymers in high-temperature, high-salinity heterogeneous reservoirs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lina Shaheed Ahmed, Leila Vafajoo, Ahmad Ramazani Saadatabadi, Davood Zaarei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing the Performance of Butadiene Rubber and Natural Rubber Elastomers Using Green-Synthesized Carbon Quantum Dots Derived from Sugarcane Bagasse Waste
In this research work, carbon quantum dot nanoparticles derived from sugarcane bagasse were used in place of rubber industry aromatic oil and a portion of carbon black in five unique samples of the NR/BR elastomer mixture. The purpose of this research was to analyze the various mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties of the obtained mixtures. Comprehensive tests, including HR-TEM (High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy), FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy), DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering), and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), were employed to elucidate the properties of carbon quantum dots. In the following, elongation, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, rheometry, and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) tests were utilized to evaluate the mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of the elastomeric mixtures. According to the collected results, among the synthesized samples, sample N3 had the most outstanding thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties. Overall, it is predicted that the interaction of carbon quantum dots with NR/BR elastomer can lead to reduced environmental risks and increased mechanical properties in the rubber industry.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arman Van, Mohamadamin Vosooghnia, Fereshteh Motiee (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Chickweed-Derived Natural Surfactant and Nano-TiO₂ for Enhanced Oil Recovery in Carbonate Reservoirs
This study investigates the potential of chickweed (CW)–derived natural surfactants, combined with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Nano-TiO₂), for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in carbonate reservoirs. The addition of Nano-TiO₂ further improved stability, interfacial tension (IFT) reduction, and wettability alteration, benefiting from synergistic interactions between nanoparticles, surfactant molecules, and divalent cations. Foamability studies revealed strong and persistent foaming behavior, indicating additional potential for mobility control. Core flooding experiments confirmed that tertiary injection of chickweed surfactant increased recovery by approximately 14% original oil in place (OOIP), while the hybrid surfactant–nanoparticle solution achieved approximately 20% OOIP, outperforming surfactant-only flooding. These results demonstrate that chickweed-derived surfactants, especially in combination with nanoparticles, provide an eco-friendly and effective alternative to synthetic chemicals for EOR applications in challenging carbonate reservoirs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Saeid Alamdari, Moein Nabipour, Amin Azdarpour, Bizhan Honarvar, Nadia Esfandiari (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A New Spectrophotometric Determination of a Pyrethroid Insecticide by Diazotization-Coupling Reaction
A novel and sensitive spectrophotometric technique for identifying alpha-cypermethrin insecticide when coupled with 5-amino-2-hydroxybenzoic acid in an alkaline medium with a pH of about 9–10 was investigated to enhance its analytical detectability to produce yellow-red azo dye. The reaction product was characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometry (FTIR), ¹H-NMR, and ¹³C-NMR. Acetone and Triton X-100 are used as solvents to increase the solubility and the sensitivity of the procedure. At 25°C, the colored product remained stable for nearly two days. The maximum absorbance was observed at λmax 408 nm. The range of (1-100) µg.mL⁻¹ is where the Beer-Lambert law is followed. The developed method was analytically validated. The limit of detection was found to be (0.130) µg.mL⁻¹, and the limit of quantification was (0.433) µg.mL⁻¹, indicating high sensitivity. The process is efficient for large-scale synthesis, has strong functional-group tolerance, and has gentle reaction conditions, suggesting a promising approach for selective and sensitive analytical monitoring in environmental and agricultural samples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fatimah H. Flayyih, Abbas N. Alshirifi, Khudheyer J. Kadem (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Study of CO Hydrogenation over Cobalt-based Catalysts: Synergistic Effect
A series of cobalt-based catalysts were prepared using γ-Al2O3 as a support and cerium/zirconium mixed oxides as promoters, with varying Ce/Zr molar ratios. The 15Co/γ-Al2O3, 15Co/3Zr/γAl2O3, 15Co/3Ce/γ-Al2O3 and 15Co/1.5Zr/1.5Ce/γ-Al2O3 were synthesized using the wet impregnation method. BET, TGA, FE-SEM, XRD, H2-TPR, and ICP techniques were used to determine the characteristics of the prepared catalysts. The findings showed that the catalyst (15Co/1.5Zr/1.5Ce/γ-Al2O3) with double promotion exceeded the performance of other catalysts, indicating notable synergistic effects. These effects are expected to play a crucial role in reducing side reactions that affect selectivity towards higher hydrocarbons. The 15Co/1.5Zr/1.5Ce/γ Al2O3 catalyst demonstrated enhanced stability and reduced degradation during prolonged operation, resulting in higher CO conversion and effective suppression of excessive carbon chain growth. All prepared catalysts were tested in a fixed-bed reactor under a pressure of 27 bar, a temperature of 220 °C, and an H2/CO ratio of 2. The results showed that the doubly-promoted catalyst achieved superior performance, with CO conversion, C5+ selectivity, and yield reaching 50.4 ± 1.5%, 82.3 ± 0.9%, and 41.5 ± 0.8%, respectively, compared to the other catalysts. In conclusion, these findings confirm the substantial influence of Zr and Ce promoters on the performance of Co-based catalysts during the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis reaction.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arefeh Sadeghi Nikou, Shahram Moradi Dehaghi, Yahya Zamani, Jafar Sadeghzadeh Ahari (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improved Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue: Synergistic Effects of Cobalt Sulfide-Silver Nanocomposites Under Visible Light Irradiation
In the present study, the investigation into the photodegradation of methylene blue dye was conducted utilizing synthesized cobalt sulfide (CoS), silver nanoparticles, and a silver-cobalt sulfide (Ag/CoS) composite, all subjected to visible light irradiation. The morphological characteristics were examined through XRD, SEM, and Mott-Schottky analyses. XRD analysis revealed a hexagonal structure for cobalt sulfide, while the composite displayed rectangular and polygonal forms. Mott-Schottky analysis showed that the presence of a p-n heterojunction, with the semiconductor flat band potentials measured at -1.2 V for the n-type and 1.5 V for the p type. The composite's bandgap was identified as 2.4 eV through DRS analysis. Various factors, including temperature, pH, and the percentage of silver doping, significantly influenced the degradation rate. While both Cobalt Sulfide and Ag alone could degrade methylene blue, the silver-cobalt sulfide composite demonstrated superior performance, achieving a 92% degradation rate. The Sips and Khan models demonstrated the superior alignment with the degradation data, exhibiting the most elevated correlation coefficients and the minimal error functions (0.008, 0.057) and (0.01, 0.078), respectively.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zahra Alinezhad, Reza Fazaeli, Hamidreza Moghadamzadeh, Mehdi Ardjmand, Nahid Raoufi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Green Synthesis and Investigation of the Functional Behavior of Carbon Quantum Dots in Elastomeric Compounds Based on (BR/SBR)
In this study, carbon quantum dot nanomaterials obtained from sugarcane bagasse have been used in the liquid phase in five distinct formulations as a substitute for aromatic oil and part of carbon black in BR/SBR elastomeric compounds. This research aimed to study the rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties of the compounds developed with carbon quantum dots. DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering), HR-TEM (High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope), FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope), and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) were used to characterize the carbon quantum dot. Also, tensile strength, wear, rheometry, and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) tests were used to check elastomeric compounds' mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties. Based on the obtained data, sample N3 showed the best rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties among the manufactured samples. Overall, these nanomaterials are expected to be an appropriate substitute for the aromatic oil used in the rubber industry.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohamadamin Vosooghnia, Fereshteh Motiee, Arman Van (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Design of Temperature-Sensitive Hydrogel Nanoparticles and Investigation of Their Application in the Development of a New Generation of Anti-Cancer Drugs with Optimization Conditions by Central Composite Design
Temperature-sensitive nanohydrogels present notable advantages in biomedical applications due to their high permeability, selectivity, water solubility, and minimal invasiveness, making them ideal carriers for controlled chemotherapy drug delivery. In this study, a novel polyphenylglycine-based nanohydrogel was synthesized via N-phenylglycine polymerization and subsequently functionalized with heat-responsive and allylamine groups to improve solubility and introduce additional active sites. The multi-target anticancer drug, sunitinib malate (Sun), was then incorporated into the nanohydrogel for targeted delivery. The structure of the nanohydrogel was confirmed via FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, and TGA analyses. Drug loading parameters, including pH, contact time, and temperature, were optimized using response surface methodology, yielding optimal conditions at pH 7.4, 60 minutes, and 50 °C. Adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm (19.81 mg/g monolayer capacity), and the kinetics were best described by a pseudosecond-order model. The nanohydrogel exhibits a lower critical solution temperature slightly above physiological temperature and demonstrates excellent photothermal stability. These properties highlight its potential as a promising platform for controlled and targeted delivery of anti-cancer therapeutics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Baharak Tavassoty Kheiry, Fariba Tadayon, Homayon Ahmad Panahi, Elham Moniri (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis and Characterization of Copper Ferrite and Manganese Ferrite Nanoparticles and their Toxicity on Breast Cancer Cells
Ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as promising candidates for cancer treatment due to their unique magnetic properties and biocompatibility, which facilitate targeted drug delivery. This study focuses on the synthesis of copper ferrite (CuFe₂O₄) and manganese ferrite (MnFe₂O₄) nanoparticles using a hydrothermal method, and assesses their cytotoxic effects on human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), confirmed the successful formation of pure spinel structures. XRD patterns aligned with standard references, while SEM images indicated nearly spherical shapes, with average diameters of 145 nm for CuFe₂O₄ and 170 nm for MnFe₂O₄. EDX analysis validated elemental composition, and FTIR spectra showed characteristic metal–oxygen vibrations. UV-Vis spectra exhibited specific peaks for both ferrites, highlighting charge-transfer transitions. Magnetic analysis revealed ferromagnetism, with MnFe₂O₄ exhibiting a higher saturation magnetization. In vitro assays showed that CuFe₂O₄ significantly reduced the viability of MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its potential as a biocompatible candidate for targeted breast cancer therapy. Additional research is needed to discover mechanisms of action and in vivo efficacy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mehdi Abdollahzadeh Parsa, Fereshteh Rahmati, Fatemeh Molaabasi, Saman Hosseinkhani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Multi Objective Data-Driven Chemical-Aware Distribution Network Design Model Under Uncertainty (Case Problem: Bonakchi)
In this research, we aim to address the gaps in past studies by presenting a data-driven network design model for the distribution of edible oils, a critical sector with unique chemical and logistical challenges. This model begins with a thorough analysis of customer demand and the specific requirements of edible oils (e.g., perishability, storage conditions, and transportation constraints) using data mining and machine learning tools. Based on the insights gained from analyzing customer behavior, the demand amounts across different geographical areas and their changing patterns will be identified and used as inputs for the network design model. For this purpose, the KNN method will be employed for data classification and analysis, and customer demand will be estimated for network design using new dimensions. Subsequently, taking into account real-world constraints and obstacles, a new mathematical model will be developed with environmental considerations. It is worth noting that during the modeling phase, in addition to optimizing the number, location, and capacity of facilities and flow in the network, the optimization of fleet type and its composition will also be addressed. Finally, to solve the model, the multi-objective nature of the problem will first be addressed using the e-constraint method. Then, considering the model's dimensions and complexities, an appropriate solution method will be proposed, and the model will be solved using real data from the Bonakchi company, extracting management insights.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Amirahmadi, Hamid Esmaeeli, Kia Parsa, Amin Mostafaee (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation and Optimization of Ultra-Assisted Extractive Desulfurization of the Fuel Model
In this study, the dibenzothiophene (DBT) extracted from n-octane fuel model by ultrasound assisted extractive process. Sulfolane and Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) sulfolane were used in the DBT extraction process. The effects of sonication time, ultrasonic temperature and frequency on the extraction percentage of DBT were studied. The optimum extraction technology of DBT from fuel was determined by response surface optimization test. The optimal conditions that were obtained for the DBT extraction percentage by sulfolane at higher value, are including, Ultrasonic time: 23.3 oC, Temperature: 25 oC and Frequency: 15.55 Hrz. Also, these optimal values for DBT extraction with DES were obtained 39.9 min, 50 oC and 19.09 Hrz for time, temperature and ultrasonic frequency, respectively. Ultrasound-assisted extraction has demonstrated a superior DBT yield compared to conventional extraction techniques.
Copyright (c) 2025 Azadeh Khoshdel, Ehsan Firouzfar, Behrooz Mahmoodzadeh vaziri, Sharareh Mohseni, Javad Feizy (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis and isotherm studies of nGO@nFe3O4 decorated with ZIF-8 for methylene blue removal
As the use of dyes in various industries has increased, environmental pollution has also increased due to the discharge of their wastewater into the waters. Here, the nanographene oxide@nano Fe3O4 (nGO@nFe3O4) decorated with ZIF-8 was synthesized to remove methylene blue from aqueous solutions. Physicochemical, thermal, morphological, and magnetic properties of ZIF-8@nGO@nFe3O4 nanocomposite adsorbent were characterized by standard analyses. SEM analysis show a porous structure and superposition of the layered structure of nGO@nFe3O4 which ZIF-8 was dispersed uniformly on or between the layers. Fine synthesis of the adsorbent was also confirm by FTIR. Results demonstrate the suitable growth of ZIF-8 on the surface of nGO@nFe3O4. The adsorbent possessed the appropriate magnetic ability and easily separated by a magnet. In addition, isotherm models of Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Redlich-Peterson were studied. Results show that Langmuir isotherm is the better model for describing the adsorption process, so, the adsorbent possesses a homogeneous surface, and the adsorption process is monolayer.
Copyright (c) -1 Kaveh Pezeshk, Maryam Khavarpour, Seyed Mohammad Vahdat, Seyed Meysam Baghbanian, Mehri Esfahanian (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Predicting the properties of carbon black/silica-filled natural rubber-based compound by specifying the protein and lipid contents of natural rubber, before compounding
Nowadays, the protein and lipid contents of natural rubber are not included in most of the rubber’s data sheet. This study investigates the effects of the mentioned parameters on the cure and some physico-mechanical features of natural rubber based compounds, filled with carbon black/silica as a dual filler. Kjeldahl and extraction methods are applied to measure the protein and lipid contents of different types of natural rubber, respectively. The first and second-order fitting models show the correlations between the protein, lipid, and protein+lipid contents with cure and some physicomechanical characteristics. The introduced models are used to estimate the features in the case study. Results are presented that, by applying the correlations between lipid content and torque difference, cure rate index, scorch time, optimum cure time, and modulus 100%, these properties can be estimated by less than 10% error. Using the correlations between the protein content with compression set and resilience make it possible to predict these properties with less than 10% and 15% errors respectively. The outcomes present the importance of clarity of the protein and lipid contents of natural rubber for preparing well-designed, high-performance products before compounding.
Copyright (c) -1 Fereshteh Eildari, Mercedeh Malekzadeh, Mandana-Maryam Saber-Tehrani, Fereshteh Motiee (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhanced green extraction of phytochemical compound from Eucheuma Cottonii using supercritical CO2 and Sub-critical water as a solvent: Optimization and kinetics modeling
Numerous active ingredients found in Eucheuma cottonii have applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, among others. Extraction is one of the biomass separation procedures that yields high purity. This work used supercritical CO2 and subcritical water as a solvent to extract phytochemical components from Eucheuma cottonii. Both solvents used are easily available, environmentally friendly, and affordable. Supercritical CO2 extraction is carried out at a temperature of 60 °C and a pressure of 25 MPa, while Sub-critical water extraction (SWE) is carried out at a temperature of 120 °C − 160 °C and a pressure of 3 MPa − 5 MPa. The yields of β-carotene and linoleic acid were 0.0019 μg/g sample and 0.0841 μg/g sample. Meanwhile, the results of SWE were kappa-carrageenan and total phenolic compounds with the largest yield of 55.8% at a temperature of 160 °C and 5 MPa. The data obtained were then analyzed for optimum operating conditions using Face-centered central composite design (FCCCD), where the optimum operating conditions correspond to the largest value of the TPC yield produced. In addition, the data were analyzed using extraction kinetics modeling, where the results showed agreement with first-order kinetics and the activation energy value was 20.563 KJ/mol.
Copyright (c) -1 Dwi Setyorini, Achmad Qodim Syafaatullah, Anggi Yuktii Kulla, Siti Machmudah, Wahyu Diono (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis, antimicrobial activity, and molecular docking study of 1,3-oxazines derivatives
Computational methods have become integral in various stages of drug development, from initial hit discovery through lead optimization and beyond. Among these methods, molecular docking stands out as the most extensively employed technique in computer-aided drug design. In this study, the biological activity and molecular docking of the synthesized derivatives were investigated for the first time. An effective one-pot four- component method was studied for the synthesis of (5-hydroxy-2,4-dipheny-2H-benzo[e][1,3]oxazin-3(4H)- yl)(phenyl)methanone derivatives by condensation reaction of Resorcinol with various aromatic aldehydes, carboxylic acids and ammonia. The synthesized compounds underwent testing for their antimicrobial effectiveness against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and were benchmarked against standard drugs like ciprofloxacin. Results indicated that the synthesized compounds exhibited moderate to potent antibacterial properties, a finding further supported by molecular modeling conducted in this study, also, this series of synthesized derivatives of 1,3-oxazines have a significant effect on Gram-negative bacteria compared to Gram-positive bacteria. The computational findings suggested that inhibiting DNA gyrase could achieve antibacterial activity. DNA gyrase in bacteria is a well-established and validated target for developing new antibacterial compounds. Pharmacophore analysis revealed that features such as hydrogen bond acceptors, hydrogen bond donors, and hydrophobicity contribute to this inhibition. However, these computer simulations represent just the beginning stages for initiating new projects aimed at developing antimicrobial molecules.
Copyright (c) 2025 Narges Samoori, Naser Foroughifar, Alireza Khajeh-Amiri, Hoda Pasdar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis of the composites based on PVA/Chitosan/Fe or Zn@Itaconic acid: investigation of the Itaconic acid concentrations to remove the organic dye pollution
Colored effluents caused by organic dyes endanger the health of living organisms and the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to remove such dyes before discharge into natural watercourses.The ancient Egyptians and Persians used Alizarin dye, Historically it was derived from the roots of plants of the madder genus that back to 3000 BC. In recent years, polymer hydrogels or their composites have received more attention as adsorbents of heavy metal ions, and the removal of recalcitrant organic dyes due to their low cost, easy transport, and reusability. In the current study, we have tried to investigate the effect of composites based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan matrix, and metal cores on the removal and decomposition of organic dyes such as Eriochrome black T (EBT) and Alizarin red (AR). The results of EBT and AR degradation by the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method clearly show many by-products during the degradation process by our hydrogel, which can be potentially helpful to the environment. The results showed the completed removal of dyes from contaminated water.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hamed Abdeli, Mohammad Reza Sazegar, Hasan Kabirifard, Manzarbanoo Asnaashari-Isfahani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigating chemical-biological degradation of plastic compounds by fungi isolated from industrial plastic waste
This study aimed to isolate chemical-biological plastic-degrading fungi and investigate their enzymatic biochemical activity. A collection of fungal isolates from 30 different plastic compounds collected from industrial waste. Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium commune, Bipolaris sorokiniana, Curvularia eragrostidis capable of chemical-biological degrading the selected compounds were identified based on PCR. Using lccC and Mnp primers, the gene of Mnp and laccase producing enzyme was identified. SEM was used to determine the surface degradation, porosity, and fragility of polyethylene, and FTIR was used to determine its chemical structure. Aspergillus niger, Curvularia eragrostidis, penicillium commune, and Bipolaris sorokiniana were identified among the industrial plastic waste, they decompose polyethylene more and Aspergillus flavus showed the greatest weight loss in the decomposition of industrial plastic waste in the culture medium. The decomposition of plastic waste by microbes in a short time not only solves the problem of waste accumulation but also produces valuable compounds like SCP.
Copyright (c) 2024 Elham Taghinia, Mohaddeseh Larypoor, Fereshteh Rahmati (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The role of Fe-Nx/N/V3C2 nanoelectrocatalyst based on organometallic framework in oxygen reduction activity
In the contemporary era, it is imperative to advance the creation of supremely efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) that utilize readily available, frequent, and economically viable elements. Organometallic frameworks (MOFs), which have the ability to adjust the pore size, have been considered in various research fields, including catalysts. Significantly, a considerable array of materials derived from or founded on MOFs have been utilized for ORR as a result of their expansive surface area, adjustable components, and manageable pore size. In this research, the novel material Fe-Nx/N/V3C2 was prepared using a straightforward synthesis method. V3C2, when utilized as a conductive substrate, has the capability to hinder the degradation and buildup of the Fe-N-C structure during the pyrolysis process, thereby providing stabilization to the electrocatalyst. The cooperative interactions between Fe-Nx and the V3C2 substrate enhance the electron-ion transfer mechanism within the nanocomposite, ultimately establishing a four-electron pathway. Finally, due to the uniform dispersion of Fe-Nx on the V3C2 porous substrate, the electrode produced from the nanocomposite showed good ORR catalytic activity with limiting current density (JD), half-wave potential (E1/2) and n values of 4.5 mA cm−2, 0.896 V and 3.98, respectively.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mahdi Soleimani Moghaddam, Leila Asadi Kafshgari, Mahdieh Houshani, Ali Bahari, Babak Sadeghi, Sogol Motallebi Tala Tapeh, Ebrahim Shokraei (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Improving production efficiency by implementing DMAIC phases on the Six Sigma method: a case study on the oil industry
High-level competition in business requires improving the quality of the organization’s product or service. Six Sigma with the DMAIC approach is a strategy that has been effective in improving product and service quality, and the concept of ”Six Sigma” as an integrated strategy is still being developed. This article has tried to achieve qualitative and quantitative improvements in the oil production process of an FMCG company by using the Six Sigma method and implementing the DMAIC cycle. Therefore, we will first examine the basic concepts of Six Sigma, how to implement the DMAIC cycle, and the effective elements of production, and then identify the problems related to reducing stoppages, waste, and completing empty capacities in the oil industry. Finally, we will consider increasing the production capacity to improve the overall effectiveness of the equipment. In the next step, with the help of mental storm sessions, the causes of the stops are investigated, and with the help of cause-and-effect diagrams, Pareto and MINITAB software, the main causes of the problem are identified and effective improvements are suggested.
Copyright (c) 2024 Hamid Esmaili, Reza Bornak, Afsaneh Shahrokhi, Hossein Jadidi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigation of the effect of using ZnO/TiO2 nano particles on properties of the polyethylene terephthalate preform and beverage bottles
In this study poly ethylene terephthalate (PET) based extrudate contains nano ZnO/TiO2 particles was produced. Pure and nano PET-based preforms and bottles were made at 0,1,2 and 3% nano loading respectively. PET preform quality tests showed that nanoparticles had no effect on the shape and thickness of preforms but when the nano concentration was increased from 1 to 3 percent, colored birefringent at the edge and black birefringence stripes of preforms were decreased. SEM images of bottle layer at different nano loading showed that the distribution of spherical particles of ZnO in the PET was very well in the PET matrix and TiO2 particles has better dispersion compared to nano-ZnO. The results of optical transmittance spectra of the beverage bottle wall showed that highest uv absorption wavelength was observed at bottles with 3 % nano particles loading and the bottles with nanoparticles offered a higher shielding effect against the color of contents compared to samples containing the nanoparticles. FTIR analysis showed that combination of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles to PET matrix, led to new peaks appeared at nanocomposites. It was observed that the growth of Escherichia coli (EC) and staphylococcus aureus (SA) on PET layer was prohibited by adding nanoparticles to polymer matrix.
Copyright (c) 2024 Majid Khani, Mehdi Pordel, Abolghasem Davoodnia, Afshin TavasoliFarsheh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigation of total petroleum hydrocarbons and indigenous bacteria under aerobic conditions to increase the efficiency of conventional treatment systems for oil-polluted soils
Currently, the spread of soil oil pollution has had adverse effects on human and the environment due to using fossil fuels in industrial zones. This study was conducted to identify indigenous bacteria from the soil polluted with petroleum compounds in order to reduce polluting hydrocarbon compounds. Agar culture medium was used for the growth of bacteria in the saline liquid base medium and bacterial culture and to obtain a single colony in the solid medium. Then, the bacteria that could grow and multiply in the presence of these compounds were identified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and recorded as new species. After testing the bacteria isolation and growth, purification and finally PCR and sequencing, it was found that the isolated indigenous bacteria belong to Peseudomons aeruginosa and Bacillus nakamurai species. According to the study results, the highest and lowest percentages of reduction in hydrocarbon pollutants were related to the sample of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (53.50%) and a combination of Bacillus nakamurai and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21.48%). The study results showed the importance and efficiency of indigenous bacteria on reducing or removing hydrocarbon polluting compounds.
Copyright (c) 2024 @Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
New strategy to 1,8-dioxo-decahydroacridine derivatives using SnO2 nanoparticles via one-pot Knoevenagel condensation and Michael addition mechanisms
A versatile, convenient one-pot and three-component strategy has been promoted to prepare 1,8-dioxo-decahydroacridines in an environmentally benign solvent in using of catalytic amountsof SnO2nanoparticles. This technique is particularly appropriate for the convenient and rapidparallel synthesis of 1,8-dioxo-decahydroacridines. This technique has been compared with that ofBrφnsted acidic imidazolium salts, perfluoroalkyl tails, DBSA, and Cu-doped ZnO nanocrystallinepowder, which showed that the SnO2nanoparticles gave an improved reaction rate and yield.It also has some advantages, for example, the application of a green solvent, ease of operation,and effortlessness of purification by washing crude products with ethanol. Furthermore, thisnanoparticle catalyst was separated by a centrifuge and reused up to five times with only aninsignificant loss of catalytic efficiency.
Screening of production of industrial cellulase by Aspergillus niger sp. isolated from salt ecosystem
Aspergillus is the most important cellulase enzyme producer. Isolation of native species of Aspergillus in order to investigate the potential of cellulase production is the aim of this research. 50 air and soil samples were taken from Howz-e Soltan Lake, Aran- Bidgol Salt Lakes and were cultured on a specific culture medium (such as Rose Bengal plate) and the colonies were identified by macroscopic, microscopic, biochemical, and molecular PCR methods. Cellulase enzyme activity was done quantitatively and qualitatively. Plackett-Burman method was used to optimize screen for significant factors in enzyme production. The phylogeny tree of the best cellulase enzyme producing strains was drawn with Mega7 software. Among the 10 Aspergillus niger species isolated, No. 7 had the highest amount of cellulase production. Screening results showed that a mixture of wheat straw and rice bran (in the ratio of 70:30), humidity of 37.5%, a range of CaCo3, inoculation of 106 spores per gram, and the presence of carboxymethyl cellulose 90%, and incubation at a temperature of 25 ◦C resulted in the maximum production of cellulase enzyme. Aspergillus niger is a halophilic fungus that has a high capacity to produce enzymes in industry.
Zeolitic imidazolate framework/graphene oxide hybrid nanosheets functionalized chitosan/poly (2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid-co-sodium acrylate) for Cu (II) adsorption
The investigation centered on developing a hybrid nanosheets composed of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 and graphene oxide (ZIF-8/GO), where ZIF-8 crystals were grown on GO layers. These were subsequently functionalized with a composite of chitosan and poly (2-acrylamido-2- methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid-co-sodium acrylate) (CS/P(AMPS-co-NaAA)). The fabricated ZIF-8/GO@CS/P(AMPS-co-NaAA) nanocomposite demonstrated its capability to remove Cu (II) ions from contaminated water. Analytical techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were employed to characterize the material. Optimization of the adsorption process was achieved by adjusting critical variables, including the pH of the solution, contact time, the quantity of adsorbent used, and the concentration of the metallic ion initially present. An impressive removal efficiency of 98.1% was recorded. Furthermore, an elevation in temperature appeared to increase the adsorbent’s capacity for capturing copper ions. Moreover, the equilibrium behavior of the adsorption was assessed using several isotherm models—Freundlich, Temkin, Langmuir, and Dubinin-Radushkevich, with the Freundlich isotherm providing the best correlation. Kinetic studies supported the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and thermodynamic analyses confirmed the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption. These results underscore the high effectiveness of the synthesized adsorbent in the remediation of Cu (II) from wastewater.
ZIF-8/GO@CS/P(AMPS-co-NaAA) nanocomposite
Zinc oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized with Thymus capitatus aqueous extract and evaluations on the effects in the properties of natural rubber compounds
Zinc oxide, a vital activator in the rubber industry, is used in large quantities due to its effect on the curing process of rubber compounds. In this research, zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using Thymus capitatus leaf water extract and after adding zinc oxide nanoparticles to natural rubber and preparing nanocomposite, curing time and physical and mechanical properties were evaluated. The aqueous extract of the Thymus capitatus plant was used as stabilizing agent in the presence of sodium hydroxide to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles. BET, X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis spectrum, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to determine the characteristics of the synthesized nanoparticles. The synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (0.5 phr) were used instead of industrial zinc oxide (5 phr). The zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by the green method improved the physical and mechanical properties of the polymer matrix due to the reduction of the curing time and a decrease in consumption by one-tenth in the natural rubber mixture. Comparison of ion leaching of nanocomposite and thermal degradation of natural rubber mixtures containing zinc oxide nanoparticles and industrial zinc oxide indicates the stability of synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles.
Impact of carbon nanotube derived from rice husk to improved Corrosion Resistance of Zinc-PVDF- coating on mild steel
A carbon nanotube (CNTs) derived from rice husk was used in this work to reduce the unbound volumes and corrosion rate of Zn-PVDF in simulated sea water. The coating was developed using the electrodeposition method by varying CNTs from 0 to 0.6 g/L. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) determined the corrosion of the samples, while scanning electron microscopy determined the microstructure of the coated samples. The work shows that the addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to Zn-PVDF significantly enhanced the overall corrosion resistance of the samples. The sample with a 0.6 g/L coating demonstrated the greatest corrosion resistance, with 309.19% corrosion protection efficiency. The microstructure demonstrated that adding CNTs reduced PVDF volume expansion. The study has demonstrated the use of waste rice husk in the production of carbon nanotubes to enhance the corrosion resistance of Zn PVDF coatings.