Search Results (56)

Sustainable alternatives to synthetic polymer-based sanitary napkins are essential to reduce the environmental impact and health concerns. This study presents a method for using water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), an invasive aquatic weed, as biomass to produce biodegradable absorbent material for sanitary pads. Water hyacinth fibers were treated with an alkaline solution and incorporated into the absorbent core. Morphological, chemical, structural, functional, microbiological, and biodegradability evaluations were then conducted systematically. Scanning electron microscopy showed that non-cellulosic components were successfully removed, producing a rougher surface topology and enhanced fiber interactions. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed structural changes in cellulose after treatment. Additionally, X-ray diffraction showed that the crystallinity index increased from 53.21% in untreated fibers to 62.56% in treated fibers, indicating improved order and stability. The developed absorbent sanitary pad showed rapid fluid uptake, absorbing 10 mL within three seconds while maintaining a skin-compatible neutral pH of 6.87, as specified in Indian Standard IS 5405:1980. Microbial contamination remained low, with a total bacterial count of 360 CFU/g, no yeast or mold at ≤1 CFU/g, and no presence of Staphylococcus aureus. Soil burial tests showed 70% biodegradability at 40 days and approximately 95% at 60 days, indicating high biodegradability. These findings demonstrate the potential of water hyacinth as an inexpensive and environmentally friendly material for manufacturing hygienic sanitary pads, highlighting the sustainability benefits of valorizing invasive biomass and reducing reliance on synthetic polymers. Full article

Over the past few decades, the extensive use of plastics has led to significant environmental challenges due to their limited biodegradability and long-term persistence. Consequently, biodegradable materials have attracted considerable attention as sustainable alternative solutions to mitigate these environmental concerns. Also, the use and disposal of these materials present some sustainability challenges. Biopolymers have some advantages over standard polymers, such as biodegradability, non-toxicity and environmental sustainability, and they can be used in various industries. Taking into account the fact that the biopolymers are produced by living organisms and microorganisms, they are considered as the natural materials that can be composted. This review paper explores the increased demand for biopolymers and summarizes their benefits along with application. Overall, the focus is on the composting process as the promising sustainable technology for recovery of biodegradable waste as well as for biopolymers. Also, some biopolymers and their degradation in different conditions are presented, and the biodegradation test methods for these materials are mentioned in accordance with relevant international standards. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current developments and future development directions for the biopolymer field. Full article

The growing demand for lightweight, high-performance, and fire-safe polymer materials has accelerated research into advanced flame-retardant composites. Traditional experimental approaches to designing sustainable flame-retardant biodegradable polymer composites still rely heavily on empirical formulation and iterative testing, which are time-consuming and costly, and they often struggle to capture the coupled effects of chemical composition, processing conditions, and material performance. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) provide opportunities to address these challenges by learning formulation–structure–performance relationships from curated datasets and by translating materials chemistry and flame-retardant mechanisms into data-ready descriptors and targets. This review summarizes recent progress of AI-assisted approaches to design sustainable flame-retardant biodegradable polymer composites, emphasizing machine learning, deep learning, and active learning methods for predicting and optimizing key fire performance metrics, including limiting oxygen index and heat release-related parameters. Biodegradable-specific limitations, including narrow processing window, thermal degradation, and moisture sensitivity, are discussed in the content of descriptor selection and constraint-aware optimization, together with the role of interpretable/explainable models in supporting experimentally actionable guidance. Current challenges such as limited data availability, protocol variability, model transferability, and interpretability are highlighted, and emerging solutions, including data harmonization, standardized fire testing, and physics-informed models are outlined. AI-assisted strategies are expected to play a central role in accelerating efficient, sustainable, halogen-free, and performance-driven development of next-generation flame-retardant biodegradable polymer composites. Full article

This research investigates the potential of secondary lavender biomass (Lavandula officinalis) as a raw material for paper production within the context of the circular economy and its practical applications. Lavender stems, a by-product of essential oil extraction, were processed using the nitrate–alkali pulping method. The chemical composition of the raw material was analysed according to TAPPI standards, and the resulting pulp was characterised in terms of its mechanical and physical properties, including tensile strength and air permeability. Lavender stems contained 29.43% cellulose and 24.10% lignin, indicating moderate delignification efficiency under the applied conditions. The pulp yield was 24.2% with a Kappa number of 15.9. Of the prepared sheets, the paper with a weight of 80 g·m⁻² showed the best mechanical properties, with a breaking length of 1.71 km and a tensile strength index of 16.76 N·m·g⁻¹. In addition, lavender-based paper demonstrated measurable repellent activity against Tineola bisselliella, reducing insect presence by 70% compared to control samples, as determined by controlled laboratory exposure tests. This bioactivity is attributed to residual volatile compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, originating from lavender biomass. Overall, lavender secondary biomass represents a promising non-wood fibre for the production of biodegradable, functional paper materials that combine structural integrity with natural repellent properties. Full article

In this study, the authors focus on optimizing the processing parameters for the fabrication of biodegradable polymer filaments intended for subsequent 3D printing of biomedical structures and implants. Following extrusion and additive manufacturing, the produced materials underwent a comprehensive evaluation that included mechanical, microbiological, biofilm formation, and electron microscopy analyses. The complexity of these tests aimed to determine the potential of the developed materials for biomedical applications, particularly in the field of scaffold fabrication. At the initial stage, three types of filaments (technical designations 111, 145, and 146) were produced using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technology. These filaments were based on a PLA/PHB matrix with varying types and concentrations of plasticizers. Standardized destructive tensile and compressive mechanical tests were conducted using an MTS Insight 1 kN testing system equipped with an Instron 2620-601 extensometer. Among the tested samples, the filament labeled 111, composed of PLA/PHB thermoplastic starch and a plasticizer, exhibited the most favorable mechanical performance, with a Young’s modulus of elasticity of 4.63 MPa for 100% infill. The filament labeled 146 had a Young’s modulus of elasticity of 4.53 MPa for 100% infill and the material labeled 145 had a Young’s modulus of elasticity of 1.45 MPa for 100% infill. Microbiological assessments were performed to evaluate the capacity of bacteria and fungi to colonize the material surfaces. During bacterial activity assessment, we observed biofilm formation on the examined sample surfaces of each material from the smooth and rough sides. The colony-forming units (CFUs) increased directly with the exposure time. For all samples from each material, the Log10 (CFU) value reached above 9.41 during 72 h of incubation for the activity of each type of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans). Scanning electron microscopy provided insight into the surface quality of the material and revealed its local quality and purity. Surface defects were eliminated by this method. Overall, the results indicate that the designed biodegradable filaments, especially formulation 111, have promising properties for the development of scaffolds intended for hard tissue replacement and could also be suitable for regenerative applications in the future after achieving the desired biological properties. Full article

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as persistent and ubiquitous contaminants in aquatic and terrestrial environments, yet existing reviews often focus narrowly on conventional removal methods and lack an integrated assessment of rapidly emerging technologies. This review addresses this critical gap by providing a comprehensive and comparative synthesis of both established and next-generation approaches for MP removal from water and wastewater systems. Conventional methods such as coagulation–flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration are compared with advanced approaches including membrane separation, adsorption using engineered biochar and nanomaterials, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), and biodegradation using microbial or enzymatic pathways. Particular emphasis is placed on hybrid and integrated systems, an area seldom summarized in prior reviews, highlighting their synergistic potential to enhance removal efficiency, reduce energy demand, and improve operational stability. Promising front-runner technologies including membrane filtration coupled with coagulation pretreatment and biochar-based magnetic adsorption systems have been identified based on a balanced performance across the key criteria of removal efficiency, scalability, energy demand, cost, byproduct risk, and environmental sustainability. The review concludes by outlining key research priorities such as standardized testing protocols, scalable biophysicochemical integration strategies, and sustainability-oriented life-cycle assessments to guide future innovation in MP management. Full article

Background: This study evaluates the impact of fibrinogen enrichment on the structural, mechanical, and bioactive properties of fibrin scaffold derived from balanced protein-concentrate plasma (BPCP), an autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) formulation with elevated extraplatelet content. Methods: A novel high-fibrinogen BPCP (HF-BPCP) scaffold was produced by combining BPCP platelet lysate with a concentrated fibrinogen solution at a 1:1 ratio, yielding nearly four-fold physiological fibrinogen levels. Comparative analyses between HF-BPCP and standard BPCP included platelet and fibrinogen quantification, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), rheology, indentation, adhesion testing, coagulation kinetics, retraction assays, biodegradation profiling, and growth factor (GF) release kinetics. Results: HF-BPCP displayed significantly denser fibrin networks with thinner fibers, higher porosity, and markedly faster coagulation times compared to BPCP. Mechanically, HF-BPCP exhibited greater stiffness, higher energy dissipation, and more stable adhesion, while almost eliminating scaffold retraction at 24 h. Despite improved early handling and structural integrity, HF-BPCP degraded more rapidly in vitro under tissue plasminogen activator exposure. GF release analysis showed reduced early peaks of platelet-derived factors (TGF-β1, PDGF-AB, VEGF) but sustained release thereafter, while extraplatelet factors (IGF-1, HGF) exhibited similar profiles between scaffolds. Conclusions: These results indicate that fibrinogen enrichment synergizes with the elevated extraplatelet protein profile of BPCP to enhance scaffold mechanical stability, handling properties, and controlled GF delivery. HF-BPCP combines the adhesive, structural, and bioactive features of fibrin sealants with the regenerative potential of PRP, offering a fully autologous alternative for clinical applications requiring rapid coagulation, high mechanical support, and sustained GF availability. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to evaluate therapeutic efficacy in the regenerative medicine field. Full article

Marine oil spills remain a recurring environmental concern, particularly in coastal and estuarine areas. Among the available strategies for managing spilled oil, sorbents derived from natural fibers have attracted considerable interest as viable alternatives to synthetic materials due to their biodegradability, low cost, and alignment with circular economy principles. This review synthesizes recent advances by connecting technical and environmental aspects with operational applications. It emphasizes structural and surface modifications of lignocellulosic fibers to enhance petroleum sorption capacity, selectivity, buoyancy, and reusability. Physical, chemical, and biological approaches are discussed, focusing on how these modifications influence sorption dynamics under realistic conditions. The review also highlights the incorporation of agricultural and industrial residues as raw materials, along with regeneration and reuse strategies that support waste valorization. However, significant gaps remain, such as the lack of studies with weathered crude oils, the limitation of larger-scale testing, and the need for standardized methods and evaluation of the final fate of exhausted biosorbents. Through the integration of technical, environmental, and operational criteria, this review provides a critical foundation for developing more efficient and circular marine oil spill response technologies. Full article

Over a decade ago, WHO introduced the ASSURED (Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User-friendly, Rapid and Robust, Equipment-free, and Deliverable to end-users) criteria to guide diagnostic assay development. Today, lateral flow assays (LFAs) best meet these standards, evolving from simple rapid tests to advanced diagnostics integrating AI and nanotechnology for precise, quantitative results. Notably, nanoparticle-enhanced LFAs have achieved limits of detection (LOD) as low as 0.01 pg/mL (a 100-fold improvement over conventional methods), while AI algorithms have reduced interpretation errors by 40% in low-contrast conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the societal impact of LFAs, with over 3 billion antigen tests deployed globally, demonstrating 98% specificity in real-world surveillance. Beyond infectious diseases, LFAs are revolutionizing cancer screening through liquid biopsy, achieving a 92% concordance rate with gold-standard assays, food safety and environmental monitoring. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in scalability, reproducibility, sustainable manufacturing, and how to enhance the sensitivities and lower the LOD. However, innovations in biodegradable materials, roll-to-roll printing, CRISPR-integrated multiplexing, and efficient functionalization methods like photochemical immobilization technique offer promising solutions, with projected further cost reductions and scalability. This review highlights the technological evolution, diverse applications, and future trajectories of LFAs, highlighting their critical role in democratizing diagnostics. Full article

Background and Objectives: Magnesium (Mg)-based materials, such as the WE43 alloy, show potential in biomedical applications owing to their advantageous mechanical properties and biodegradability; however, their quick corrosion rate and hydrogen release restrict their general clinical utilization. This study aimed to develop a novel Mg-Zn-Ca alloy system based on WE43 alloy, evaluating the influence of Zn and Ca additions on microstructure, mechanical properties, cytocompatibility, and electrochemical behavior for potential use in biodegradable orthopedic applications. Materials and Methods: The WE43-Zn-Ca alloy system was developed by alloying standard WE43 (Mg–Y–Zr–RE) with 1.5% Zn and Ca concentrations of 0.2% (WE43_0.2Ca alloy) and 0.3% (WE43_0.3Ca alloy). Microstructural analysis was performed utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in conjunction with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), while the chemical composition was validated through optical emission spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical properties were assessed through tribological tests. Electrochemical corrosion behavior was evaluated using potentiodynamic polarization in a 3.5% NaCl solution. Cytocompatibility was assessed in vitro on MG63 cells using cell viability assays (MTT). Results: Alloys WE43_0.2Ca and WE43_0.3Ca exhibited refined, homogeneous microstructures with grain sizes between 70 and 100 µm, without significant structural defects. Mechanical testing indicated reduced stiffness and an elastic modulus similar to human bone (19.2–20.3 GPa), lowering the risk of stress shielding. Cytocompatibility tests confirmed non-cytotoxic behavior for alloys WE43_0.2Ca and WE43_0.3Ca, with increased cell viability and unaffected cellular morphology. Conclusions: The study validates the potential of Mg-Zn-Ca alloys (especially WE43_0.3Ca) as biodegradable biomaterials for orthopedic implants due to their favorable combination of mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and cytocompatibility. The optimization of these alloys contributed to obtaining an improved microstructure with a reduced degradation rate and a non-cytotoxic in vitro outcome, which supports efficient bone tissue regeneration and its integration into the body for complex biomedical applications. Full article

This study presents a novel approach to manufacture a rigid printed circuit board (PCB) using sustainable polymers. Current PCBs use a fossil-fuel-based substrate, like FR4. This presents recycling challenges due to its composite nature. Replacing the substrate with an environmentally friendly alternative leads to a reduction in negative impacts. Polylactic acid (PLA) and Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) biopolymers are used in this study. These two biopolymers have low melting points (130–180 °C, and 170–180 °C, respectively) and cannot withstand the high temperature soldering process (up to 260 °C for standard SAC (SnAgCu, tin/silver/copper) lead free solder processes). Our approach for replacing the PCB substrate is applying the PLA/PHB carrier substrate at the end of the PCB manufacturing process using injection molding technology. This approach involves all the standard PCB processes, including wet etching of the Cu conductors, and component assembly with SAC solder on a thin flexible polyimide (PI) foil with patterned Cu conductors and then overmolding the biopolymer onto the foil to create a rigid base. This study demonstrates the functionality of two test circuits fabricated using this method. In addition, we evaluated the adhesion between the biopolymer and PI to achieve a durable PCB. Moreover, we performed two different end-of-life approaches (debonding and composting) as a part of the end-of-life consideration. By incorporating biodegradable materials into PCB standard manufacturing, the CO₂ emissions and energy consumption are significantly reduced, and installation costs are lowered. Full article

The urgent global mandate to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030 has accelerated innovation in sustainable construction materials, particularly natural insulation solutions. This study addresses persistent challenges such as complex production processes, non-compostable components, and limited adherence to industry standards by developing and evaluating a novel slim insulation panel made from agricultural waste, specifically wheat straw. Targeted at retrofitting Grade 2 listed dwellings in the UK—where external modifications are restricted—the panels combine simplicity, full compostability, and conformity with regulatory benchmarks. Prototypes were fabricated using wheat straw and two compostable binders, tested for thermal performance, moisture stability, and biodegradability using an innovative Actual Wall Replication Method (AWRM) to mimic real-world conditions. The findings demonstrated superior thermal conductivity and durability, with panels achieving significant energy-saving potential without compromising heritage integrity. The work highlights wheat straw’s viability as an eco-friendly insulation material and accentuates the necessity of realistic testing for accurate performance assessment. This study offers a replicable framework for integrating circular economy principles into heritage retrofitting, bridging the gap between ambitious environmental targets and historic building preservation, thereby contributing to broader sustainable development goals. Full article

The growing need to mitigate the environmental impact of human activities has underscored the importance of biomaterials in sustainable architecture and construction. In this systematic review, advancements in bio-composite materials are consolidated and critically evaluated, emphasizing their thermal insulation properties and broader applications in sustainable building practices. Key aspects analyzed included morphology, internal structure, and thermal performance, along with supplementary insights into mechanical properties when available. The review focused on studies published between January and October 2024, sourced from the Scopus database and adhering to PRISMA guidelines. A keyword meta-analysis using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) illustrated keyword co-occurrence trends. Methods for assessing bias included evaluating study design, data collection processes, and potential conflicts of interest, aligned with PRISMA standards. Significant findings revealed bio-composites achieving thermal conductivity values as low as 0.016 W/m·K, surpassing many traditional materials in insulation performance. Data from 48 studies, analysing 50 bio-composite materials, showed that 44% were optimized for thermal insulation and 40% for sub-structural applications. These materials also exhibit biodegradability and recyclability, critical attributes for sustainable construction. However, challenges such as scalability and durability remain as the key barriers to widespread adoption. In this review, the viability of bio-composites as sustainable alternatives to traditional materials is highlighted and research priorities are identified, particularly in scaling production technologies and enhancing durability testing methods, to advance their application in sustainable building practices. Full article

Concerns about the safety of traditional preservatives in personal care products are driving interest toward self-preserving alternatives. This study explores the potential of B. stenostachya leaf extracts, a natural and biodegradable material, for use in cosmetics. B. stenostachya, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Taiwan, is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids with antimicrobial properties. Leaves were obtained from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Tainan, Taiwan, and extracted using ultrasonic and Soxhlet methods with water, 50% ethanol, and 95% ethanol. The highest yield was achieved with 50% ethanol at 100 °C. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line, with no toxicity observed at dilutions between 1/3200 and 1/400, indicating the extract’s safety for cosmetic use. Antimicrobial activity was tested in accordance with ISO 11930:2019 standards. The extract effectively inhibited Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus pathogens, meeting preservative efficacy Standards A and B for long-term microbial control. Bamboo is a sustainable resource with lower environmental impacts, and its products show promising biodegradability and reduced environmental footprints. This research indicates that the B. stenostachya leaf extract offers a sustainable alternative to chemical preservatives, promoting both environmental sustainability and public health, with the potential for expanded use in natural personal care formulations. Full article

Natural fiber-reinforced composites are composite materials composed of natural fibers, such as plant fibers and synthetic biopolymers. These environmentally friendly composites are biodegradable, renewable, cheap, lightweight, and low-density, attracting attention as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fiber-reinforced composites. In this study, natural fiber-reinforced polymer foam core layered composites were produced for the automotive industry. Fabrics woven from goat wool were used as the natural fiber. Polymer foam with expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) structures was used as the core material. During production, fibers were bonded to the upper and lower layers of the core structures using resin. The hand lay-up method was used in production. After resin application, the samples were cured under a heated press for 2 h. After the production was completed, the material was cut according to the standards (10-20-30 Joule), and impact and bending tests were conducted at three different energy levels. The experiments revealed that at 10 J, the material exhibited rebound; at 20 J, it showed resistance to stabbing; and at 30 J, it experienced penetration. While EPS foam demonstrated higher impact resistance in the 10 J test, it was found that XPS foam exhibited better impact resistance and absorption capabilities in the 20 J and 30 J tests. Due to the open and semi-closed cell structure of EPS foams and the closed cell structure of XPS foams, it has been concluded that XPS foams exhibit higher impact resistance and better energy absorption properties Full article