This study aimed at evaluating the effect of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanosized structures and nanoparticles of hydrophilic silica as modifiers of both acid- and alkaline-catalysed tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)-based products for the consolidation of carbonate stones. Their initial effectiveness and some compatibility aspects were assessed in a porous limestone (sound and artificially aged Ançã stone samples) and two types of treatment (capillary absorption and brushing). The studied products were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Their depth of penetration and strengthening effect were evaluated through drilling resistance. Their action on the substrate was also further assessed by non-destructive methods based on colour variation and Shore-D hardness. Treated stone samples were dissimilarly affected by the tested treatments and exhibited a significant increase in strength with a low risk of over-strengthening. Adequate in-depth penetration patterns, as well as colour compatibility with the substrate were obtained with some of the prepared formulations through two types of treatment, both in sound and aged stone samples. The potential most effective treatments with the lowest colour change were obtained with the acid-catalysed TEOS-based products modified with HAp nanosized structures.

Freshwater scarcity has increased interest in circular water-use strategies, including the reuse of treated wastewater (TWW) for crop irrigation. While TWW contains nutrients beneficial for plant growth, it may also carry contaminants such as toxic metals (TM), which can be taken up by plants and pose risks to both crop and food safety. This field study investigates the influence of nanoplastics (NP), an emerging pollutant commonly found in waters, on TM bioaccumulation and antioxidant compound production in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), one of the most widely cultivated and consumed leafy vegetables in Western countries. Lettuce plants were grown under greenhouse conditions and irrigated throughout the entire growth cycle with TWW, either alone or supplemented with NP, TM, or both. The results indicate that the interaction between NP and TM leads to a decreased TM bioaccumulation (24%, 50%, and 79% for Cr, Ni, and Cd, respectively) and reduced phytotoxicity, although with negative impact on plant growth (ca. 60% reduction in biomass production). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effects of nanoplastics and co-existing contaminants present in treated wastewater on crops. These findings provide new insights into plant responses under irrigation with TWW and highlight potential implications for crop safety within the context of circular water use.

Europe produces over 200,000 tons of coarse wool annually, a material often undervalued despite its potential in sustainable applications. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of individual “Țurcana” wool fibers through tensile testing, with samples collected from different body regions of the same sheep. Complementary SEM and FTIR analyses were employed to characterize the morphology and chemical constitution of the fibers. The results revealed clear differences in mechanical performance and morphology among fibers from different regions, as well as variations within the same region, while slightly differences in chemical constitution were detected by ATR-FTIR across the body parts.