In this work, it is reported a scalable and systematic protocol for the preparation of xerogels based on the use of green, highly available, and low‐cost materials, i.e. halloysite nanoclay and chitosan, without the need for any expensive equipment or operational/energetic demands. Starting from colloidal dispersions, rheological studies demonstrate the formation of hydrogels with zero‐shear viscosities enhanced by ≈9 orders of magnitude and higher storage moduli. Hence, the corresponding self‐standing xerogels are prepared by a simple solvent casting method and their properties depend on the concentration of halloysite, possessing enhanced thermal stability and outstanding mechanical performances (elastic modulus and ultimate elongation of 165 MPa and 43%, respectively). The resulting biohybrid materials can be exploited for environmental remediation. High removal efficiencies are reached for the capture of organic molecules from aqueous media and the CO ₂ capture from the atmosphere is also investigated. Most importantly, the presence of an inorganic skeleton within the xerogels prevents the structure from collapsing upon drying and it allows for the control over their morphology and shape. Therefore, taking advantage of the overall features, the designed xerogels offer an attractive strategy for sustainably tackling pollution and for environmental remediation in a plethora of different domains.

The effect of the preparation protocol of chitosan (CHI) based films filled with wax microparticles stabilized by halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) in Pickering emulsions (PE) is investigated. The obtained results show that the addition of acetic acid (before or after the preparation of wax/HNT microspheres) affects the properties of the composite films as well as the colloidal stability of PE. The colloidal behavior of CHI/HNT/wax PE by optical microscopy and sedimentation tests are studied. On the other hand, the corresponding composite films (prepared by solvent casting method) are characterized through several techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy, UV–vis spectrometer, water permeability, and contact angle measurements. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis allows this to estimate the effect of wax microparticles on the tensile performances of CHI‐based films. As a general consideration, the filling of the CHI matrix with wax/HNT improves the physicochemical properties of the films. Finally, the efficacy of the films as adsorbents of n‐dodecane vapors is explored. Due to the presence of hydrophobic domains (wax embedded in CHI), the composite films possess higher adsorption efficiencies compared to pristine CHI. Accordingly, it can be stated that the combination of CHI with wax/HNT microparticles is promising to obtain biocompatible composite films useful for remediation purposes.

We propose a physico-chemical approach for theharacterization of the conservation condition of yarns from a Flemish tapestry of the sixteenth century. The aging effect on the yarns’ performance was evaluated by comparison with commercial materials. Water uptake experiments highlighted the aptitude of yarns toward water sorption and their increased hydrophilicity upon aging. Thermogravimetric analysis can be considered a fast approach for the fiber identification and assessment on the material life-time. The dynamic mechanical analysis provided direct evidence on the yarns, conservation state and their performance under different mechanical stresses. The proposed characterization path can be relevant for stating the condition of the tapestry and for designing a conservation protocol for the preservation of the artwork.

Aptamers have emerged as promising therapeutic oligonucleotides (TOs) due to their structural adaptability, high binding affinity, and remarkable specificity toward diverse biological targets. Among them, G‐quadruplex‐forming aptamers stand out for their unique secondary structures and distinct chemical properties. Their potential in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's lies in their ability to inhibit protein aggregation and modulate pathogenic pathways. However, their application is hindered by enzymatic degradation and limited membrane permeability. To overcome these issues, chemical modifications, such as backbone and sugar alterations, and nanomaterial‐based delivery strategies have been developed. Notably, clay nanoparticles, such as halloysite nanotubes and montmorillonite, have gained attention as effective carriers for TOs, enhancing their structural stability and bioavailability. This review discusses recent advancements in aptamer‐based TOs, with a focus on G‐quadruplex‐forming oligonucleotides, their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases, and innovative nanocarrier systems that can improve their stability and targeted delivery. Finally, it highlights current challenges and future directions in the chemical design and formulation of aptamer‐based therapeutics for targeted applications.