Trichoderma virens-synthesized TiO₂–CuO@GO nanocomposite exhibits potent antibacterial activity and efficiently degrades Congo red via PMS activation.

In this work, we develop chitosan/xylan-coated magnetite (CsXM) nanoparticles as eco-friendly efficient adsorbents for the facile removal of contaminants from water. Characterization of CsXM using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Zeta potential measurements, and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) analysis, confirmed the successful preparation of a chitosan/xylan complex coated over magnetite, which is characterized by being mesoporous, thermally stable and of neutral charge. Three contaminants, Pb(II), salicylic acid (SA), and congo red (CR), were chosen as representative pollutants from three major classes of contaminants of emerging concern: heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and azo dyes. Pb(II), SA, and CR at initial concentrations of 50 ppm were removed by 64.49, 62.90, and 70.35%, respectively, on applying 6 g/L of CsXM. The contaminants were successfully removed in ternary systems, with Pb (II) and SA being more competitive in their adsorption than CR. Adsorption followed the Freundlich isotherm model and the pseudo-second order kinetic model, while the binding was suggested to occur mainly via chemical chelation for Pb(II) and physical interaction for SA and CR, which demonstrates the multifunctional potential of the nanoparticles to capture different contaminants regardless of their charge.

From expired cellulose to hydrochar adsorbent for water contaminants.

A review on the structure, properties, sustainability, and life cycle analysis of basalt fiber composites, emerging as a major sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic reinforcements such as glass and carbon fibers. Basalt fibers (BFs) are high-performance mineral fibers derived from volcanic rock with a high silica content. These fibers exhibit superior mechanical strength, excellent chemical resistance, and exceptional thermal stability across a broad temperature range. This review explores the multi-sectoral applications of basalt fibers, particularly within the energy and chemical industries. Specific focus is placed on their role as reinforcing agents in concrete and polymer matrix composites, where they provide enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. Central to this discussion is the environmental profile of basalt fibers. We evaluate recent life cycle assessments (LCAs) that compare the environmental gains of BF-reinforced structures. The analysis extends beyond environmental metrics to include the economic and social pillars of sustainability, highlighting basalt’s cost-effectiveness in corrosive environments and its safety as a non-carcinogenic material. This review concludes that basalt fibers offer a significant “green” advantage, encouraging wider industrial adoption.