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31 pages, 1950 KiB  
Review
Evaluation of Polypyrrole as a Functional Sorbent for Water Treatment Technologies
by Sylwia Golba and Justyna Jurek-Suliga
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(16), 9153; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15169153 (registering DOI) - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Polypyrrole, which belongs to the conducting polymer family, has demonstrated profound potential in advanced water purification applications due to its inherent electrical conductivity, environmental stability, and tunable surface chemistry. As a sorbent, PPy exhibits high sorption capacity for aquatic contaminants, including heavy metals, [...] Read more.
Polypyrrole, which belongs to the conducting polymer family, has demonstrated profound potential in advanced water purification applications due to its inherent electrical conductivity, environmental stability, and tunable surface chemistry. As a sorbent, PPy exhibits high sorption capacity for aquatic contaminants, including heavy metals, pharmaceutical compounds, and their metabolites, as well as synthetic dyes. The removal efficiency is correlated to a complex interaction mechanism involving electrostatic attractions, redox activity, and π–π stacking. Recent advances have expanded the utility by further developing nanostructured PPy-based (nano)composites, which elevate sorption performance by increasing surface area, mechanical integrity, and selective affinity. In addition, its integration into membrane technologies has enabled the design of an effective filtration system with improved selectivity and regeneration capabilities. Moreover, PPy is effective in electrochemical processes of water treatment, including capacitive deionization and electrochemically assisted sorption, opening novel paths towards energy-efficient pollutant removal. The multifunctionality of PPy as a sorbent material highlights its value as an important material for water treatment, with the capability of extended modification tailored for emerging environmental needs revised in this work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Science and Engineering)
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25 pages, 848 KiB  
Review
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Curcumin Nanoparticles Against Aquatic Bacterial Pathogens
by Edith Dube and Grace Emily Okuthe
Future Pharmacol. 2025, 5(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/futurepharmacol5030044 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Bacterial diseases are a major constraint to aquaculture productivity, driving extensive antibiotic use and raising concerns over antimicrobial resistance, environmental contamination, and food safety. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from Curcuma longa, exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities but is limited by poor [...] Read more.
Bacterial diseases are a major constraint to aquaculture productivity, driving extensive antibiotic use and raising concerns over antimicrobial resistance, environmental contamination, and food safety. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from Curcuma longa, exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities but is limited by poor water solubility, instability, and low bioavailability. This review was conducted through a literature search of Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using targeted keywords, including curcumin nanoparticles, antibacterial, aquatic pathogens, nanotechnology, synthesis, and disease control. Titles and abstracts were screened for relevance, followed by full-text evaluation of selected studies. Key findings were critically analyzed and incorporated into the review. Findings from the literature indicate that curcumin nanoparticles, synthesized via milling, anti-solvent precipitation, ionic gelation, emulsification, spray drying, and metal/polymer nanocomposite formation, exhibit enhanced antibacterial activity against aquatic pathogens, including Aeromonas hydrophila, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Optimally engineered curcumin nanoparticles (<100 nm, being mostly spherical, highly negatively charged) can penetrate bacterial membranes, disrupt biofilms, lower minimum inhibitory concentrations, and improve in vivo fish survival. Practical applications include dietary supplementation to boost fish immunity and growth, water disinfection to reduce pathogen loads, immersion therapy for external infections, and antimicrobial coatings for aquaculture equipment and surfaces, resulting in reduced infections and outbreaks, reduced mortality, improved water quality, and decreased antibiotic dependence. In conclusion, curcumin nanoparticles and curcumin-based nanocomposites present a versatile, eco-friendly approach to sustainable aquaculture disease management. However, further field-scale validation, safety assessment, and cost-effective production methods are necessary to enable commercial adoption. Full article
20 pages, 2178 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress on Green-Derived Tin Oxide (SnO2) for the Degradation of Textile Dyes: A Review
by L. M. Mahlaule-Glory and N. C. Hintsho-Mbita
Textiles 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles5030036 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Water contamination from textile dyes is a major environmental hazard. This is due to the textile industry serving among the biggest manufacturers, thus the extensive usage of these dyes. Several methods for the treatment of these pollutants have been used; however, they have [...] Read more.
Water contamination from textile dyes is a major environmental hazard. This is due to the textile industry serving among the biggest manufacturers, thus the extensive usage of these dyes. Several methods for the treatment of these pollutants have been used; however, they have limitations in terms of cost, forming secondary pollution, and effectiveness. Metal oxides such as tin oxide (SnO2) have been identified as potential photocatalysts for the degradation of these dyes. The potential of SnO2-based photocatalysts, especially those made using green techniques, has been at the forefront of current research. The physical and optical properties, green synthesis techniques, and photocatalytic uses of SnO2 NPs are examined. Furthermore, methods to improve photocatalytic effectiveness through the formation of heterostructures are also explored. Lastly, the conclusion and future perspectives of these materials as suitable candidates for water treatment are highlighted. Full article
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13 pages, 2819 KiB  
Article
Stormwater in the Desert: Unveiling Metal Pollutants in Climate-Intensified Flooding in the United Arab Emirates
by Lara Dronjak, Sofian Kanan, Tarig Ali, Md Maruf Mortula, Areej Mohammed, Jonathan Navarro Ramos, Diana S. Aga and Fatin Samara
Water 2025, 17(16), 2457; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17162457 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the concentrations of metals in stormwater runoff collected during two extreme flooding events on the American University of Sharjah (AUS) campus in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Given the increasing frequency of intense rainfall in arid regions, stormwater contamination represents [...] Read more.
This study investigated the concentrations of metals in stormwater runoff collected during two extreme flooding events on the American University of Sharjah (AUS) campus in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Given the increasing frequency of intense rainfall in arid regions, stormwater contamination represents a growing environmental and public health concern. Stormwater samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) to quantify metal concentrations. The results showed that iron (0.049–2.080 mg/L), aluminum (0.097–2.020 mg/L), and potassium (0.614–3.860 mg/L) were the most abundant metals detected. Lower concentrations were observed for manganese (0.000–0.058 mg/L), barium (0.000–0.073 mg/L), chromium (0.000–0.013 mg/L), nickel (0.000–0.038 mg/L), and vanadium (0.000–0.004 mg/L). These findings underscore the critical need for effective stormwater management in arid regions, where climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Improved drainage systems and long-term monitoring are essential to mitigate the environmental and public health risks posed by stormwater contamination in rapidly urbanizing areas. Full article
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14 pages, 899 KiB  
Article
Elemental Composition Analysis of Major Refined Petroleum Fuel Products in Ghana
by Robert Wilson and Calvin Kwesi Gafrey
Fuels 2025, 6(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/fuels6030062 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Samples of refined petroleum fuels from the three major oil-marketing companies (GOIL Company Limited, Total Energies Ghana Limited and Shell Vivo Ghana Limited) in Ghana have been analysed for elemental concentrations using an X-ray fluorescence facility at the National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana [...] Read more.
Samples of refined petroleum fuels from the three major oil-marketing companies (GOIL Company Limited, Total Energies Ghana Limited and Shell Vivo Ghana Limited) in Ghana have been analysed for elemental concentrations using an X-ray fluorescence facility at the National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. The samples were acquired from seven different fuel service stations where customers directly purchase refined petroleum fuels such as diesel, petrol and kerosene. The X-ray fluorescence method was considered for the study because sample preparation does not require the addition of reagents, and the fluorescence measurements involve a direct electron transition effect. The fluorescence study was carried out to estimate the concentrations of sulphur and other contaminants in the major refined petroleum fuel products patronised in Ghana. The average sulphur concentration in the samples of diesel products were 17.543, 25.805 and 26.813 ppm in DFS, DE and DXP samples compared to 22.258, 22.623 and 15.748 ppm in petrol samples of PE, PXP and VP. Also, the sulphur concentration of sample KE, kerosene products, is 33.250 ppm. Among the diesel samples, DE and DXP recorded the highest but most comparable average concentration of elemental contaminants, and DFS the least, while PXP recorded the least among the petrol samples. The study estimated the concentrations of four heavy metal elements that are toxic to biological life (Hg, Pb, Cr and Mn) to be less than 10.0 ppm, except Cr. The study concluded that most of the elemental contaminants of heavy metals in the samples were relatively less than ultra-low levels. Therefore, exhaust emissions may have little impact on the environment. Also, the content of the ash-producing metal elements in each sample of the seven refined fuel products is between 10.0 and 50.0 ppm. Since the concentration of sulphur and a few other elemental contaminants could not meet the internationally accepted standard (<10.0 ppm), the imported refined fuel products used in Ghana may be considered relatively good but not environmentally safe. Full article
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20 pages, 2572 KiB  
Article
Ball-Milling-Assisted Fe3O4 Loadings of Rice Straw Biochar for Enhanced Tetracycline Adsorption in Aquatic Systems
by Yuxin Liu, Haizhang Yu, Yuchen Xing, Qi Zhao, Rukeya Ashan, Bo Feng, Bo Tao, Qianyi Shangguan, Yucheng Liu, Haiyan Zhang and Guanya Ji
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081987 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Antibiotic contaminants such as tetracycline (TC) from agricultural production have become widely distributed and persistently accumulated in aquatic environments (rivers, lakes, and oceans), posing severe threats to ecological security and human health. This study developed a modified rice-straw-derived biochar through NaOH activation and [...] Read more.
Antibiotic contaminants such as tetracycline (TC) from agricultural production have become widely distributed and persistently accumulated in aquatic environments (rivers, lakes, and oceans), posing severe threats to ecological security and human health. This study developed a modified rice-straw-derived biochar through NaOH activation and ball-milling-assisted Fe3O4 loading, which simultaneously enhanced TC adsorption capacity and enabled magnetic recovery. The Box–Behnken design (BBD) response surface methodology was employed to optimize three key preparation parameters: ball-milling time (A, 39.95 min), frequency (B, 57.23 Hz), and Fe3O4/biochar mass ratio (C, 2.85:1), with TC adsorption capacity as the response value. The modified biochar was systematically characterized using SEM, BET, FTIR, XRD, and XPS, while adsorption mechanisms were elucidated through kinetic studies, isotherm analyses, and pH-dependent experiments. The results demonstrate that modification via ball-milling with Fe3O4 loading significantly enhanced the biochar’s tetracycline adsorption capacity. The maximum adsorption capacity of the modified biochar reached 102.875 mg/g, representing a 114.85% increase from the initial value of 47.882 mg/g observed for the pristine biochar. Furthermore, the modified biochar exhibited excellent stability, maintaining robust adsorption performance across a wide pH range. The primary adsorption mechanisms involved metal coordination complexation, supplemented by hydrogen bonding, π-π interactions, and pore filling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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17 pages, 2925 KiB  
Article
Correlative Raman Spectroscopy–SEM Investigations of Sintered Magnesium–Calcium Alloys for Biomedical Applications
by Eshwara Nidadavolu, Martin Mikulics, Martin Wolff, Thomas Ebel, Regine Willumeit-Römer, Berit Zeller-Plumhoff, Joachim Mayer and Hilde Helen Hardtdegen
Materials 2025, 18(16), 3873; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18163873 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
In this study, a correlative approach using Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is introduced to meet the challenges of identifying impurities, especially carbon-related compounds in metal injection-molded (MIM) Mg-0.6Ca specimens designed for biomedical applications. This study addresses, for the first time, [...] Read more.
In this study, a correlative approach using Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is introduced to meet the challenges of identifying impurities, especially carbon-related compounds in metal injection-molded (MIM) Mg-0.6Ca specimens designed for biomedical applications. This study addresses, for the first time, the issue of carbon residuals in the binder-based powder metallurgy (PM) processing of Mg-0.6Ca materials. A deeper understanding of the material microstructure is important to assess the microstructure homogeneity at submicron levels as this later affects material degradation and biocompatibility behavior. Both spectroscopic and microscopic techniques used in this study respond to the concerns of secondary phase distributions and their possible stoichiometry. Our micro-Raman measurements performed over a large area reveal Raman modes at ~1370 cm−1 and ~1560 cm−1, which are ascribed to the elemental carbon, and at ~1865 cm−1, related to C≡C stretching modes. Our study found that these carbonaceous residuals/contaminations in the material microstructure originated from the polymeric binder components used in the MIM fabrication route, which then react with the base material components, including impurities, at elevated thermal debinding and sintering temperatures. Additionally, using evidence from the literature on thermal carbon cracking, the presence of both free carbon and calcium carbide phases is inferred in the sintered Mg-0.6Ca material in addition to the Mg2Ca, oxide, and silicate phases. This first-of-its-kind correlative characterization approach for PM-processed Mg biomaterials is fast, non-destructive, and provides deeper knowledge on the formed residual carbonaceous phases. This is crucial in Mg alloy development strategies to ensure reproducible in vitro degradation and cell adhesion characteristics for the next generation of biocompatible magnesium materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
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19 pages, 1347 KiB  
Article
Enhancing MUSIC’s Capability for Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Established Urban Constructed Wetlands
by Fujia Yang, Shirley Gato-Trinidad and Iqbal Hossain
Hydrology 2025, 12(8), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology12080219 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
The Model for Urban Stormwater Improvement Conceptualization (MUSIC) serves as a key hydrological tool for simulating urban stormwater runoff pollution and evaluating the treatment performance in Water-Sensitive Urban Designs like constructed wetlands (CWs). However, a significant limitation exists in MUSIC’s current inability to [...] Read more.
The Model for Urban Stormwater Improvement Conceptualization (MUSIC) serves as a key hydrological tool for simulating urban stormwater runoff pollution and evaluating the treatment performance in Water-Sensitive Urban Designs like constructed wetlands (CWs). However, a significant limitation exists in MUSIC’s current inability to model heavy metal contaminants, even though they are commonly found in urban stormwater and pose significant environmental risks. This eventually affects the model’s utility during critical planning phases for urban developments. Thus, there is a need to address this limitation. Field investigations were conducted across established CWs in residential and industrial catchments throughout Greater Melbourne, Australia. Through systematic monitoring and calibration, an approach was developed to extend MUSIC’s predictive capabilities to include several prevalent heavy metals. The results indicate that the enhanced model can generate plausible estimates for targeted metals while differentiating catchment-specific pollutant generation and treatment patterns. This advancement enhances MUSIC’s functionality as a planning support tool, enabling the preliminary assessment of heavy metal dynamics alongside conventional pollutants during both design and operational stages. The findings underscore the value of incorporating metal-specific parameters into stormwater models, offering improved support for urban water management decisions and long-term water quality protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Hydrology and Stormwater Management)
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54 pages, 4395 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Metal(loid)s in Fern Amauropelta rivularioides (Fee), Soil, and River Water in a Peri-Urban Agriculture Area on the Brazil–Paraguay Border
by Paulo Renato Espindola, Elaine Silva de Pádua Melo, Duani A. L. F. Espindola, Diego Azevedo Zoccal Garcia, Marta Aratuza Pereira Ancel, Arnildo Pott and Valter Aragão do Nascimento
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(8), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9080324 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study examined the temporal dynamics of metal(loid) concentrations in agricultural soils, fern Amauropelta rivularioides, and surface waters in a peri-urban region on the Brazil–Paraguay border during 2019–2020. Elevated levels of As, Se, Co, Mn, Cu, and Zn raised concerns about environmental [...] Read more.
This study examined the temporal dynamics of metal(loid) concentrations in agricultural soils, fern Amauropelta rivularioides, and surface waters in a peri-urban region on the Brazil–Paraguay border during 2019–2020. Elevated levels of As, Se, Co, Mn, Cu, and Zn raised concerns about environmental and human health risks, especially when compared to international guidelines. Post-harvest and pre-harvest periods, particularly during corn cultivation, revealed higher concentrations of toxic metals, suggesting cumulative effects of agrochemical use. Principal Component Analysis indicated significant geochemical variation, with particular emphasis on the Collection 1 period (1 June 2019). The fern A. rivularioides demonstrated metal accumulation, especially for As, Pb, Cr, and Ba, reflecting the influence of agrochemical residues and seasonal runoff. Surface waters displayed metal concentrations below detection limits, but phosphorus levels surpassed USEPA thresholds for eutrophication risk. Risk assessments indicated moderate to high contamination in soils, particularly for P, As, Mg, and Se. Hazard Quotient and Hazard Index values suggested chronic health risks, and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk values for dermal exposure to As, Pb, and Cr indicated an elevated cancer risk. Full article
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22 pages, 767 KiB  
Article
Leachability and Health Risk Assessment of Cadmium and Other Heavy Metals in Agricultural Soils from the Mae Tao Watershed, Northern Thailand
by Nipada Santha, Thanan Watcharamai, Rungroj Benjakul and Schradh Saenton
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080687 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
Decades of unregulated zinc mining activities in the Mae Tao watershed, located in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, northern Thailand, have resulted in the pervasive contamination of agricultural soils with heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and manganese (Mn). This [...] Read more.
Decades of unregulated zinc mining activities in the Mae Tao watershed, located in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, northern Thailand, have resulted in the pervasive contamination of agricultural soils with heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and manganese (Mn). This legacy pollution has significantly impacted multiple environmental compartments—including surface water, groundwater, and sediments—and poses chronic health risks to local populations. This study investigates the key geochemical and physicochemical factors governing the leachability and mobility of these metals from contaminated soils and evaluates the associated human health risks. Controlled leaching experiments demonstrated that ionic strength exerts a more pronounced influence on metal mobilization than pH or other tested variables, suggesting that the electrolyte composition of pore water plays a dominant role in heavy metal transport. Despite elevated total concentrations of Cd, Zn, Pb, and Mn in the soils, hazard quotient (HQ) calculations indicated no significant non-carcinogenic risk under typical exposure scenarios. However, Cd exhibited a carcinogenic risk above the acceptable threshold at both average and peak soil concentrations, underscoring its potential to adversely affect human health. These findings enhance the understanding of heavy metal behavior in contaminated agroecosystems and provide a scientific basis for targeted risk management and long-term monitoring strategies in the Mae Sot region. Full article
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16 pages, 899 KiB  
Article
High Cadmium and Mercury Soil Contamination Outweighs the Effect of Soil Amendments When Growing Miscanthus x giganteus
by Željka Zgorelec, Lana Zubčić, Silva Žužul, Zorana Kljaković-Gašpić, Marija Trkmić, Marija Galić, Iva Hrelja, Ana Špehar Ćosić, Aleksandra Perčin and Nikola Bilandžija
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(16), 9075; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15169075 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 42
Abstract
This three-year study evaluated the effects of various soil amendments on growth parameters and heavy metal (HM) accumulation in above- and belowground biomass of Miscanthus x giganteus (MxG), assessing its phytoremediation potential. A randomised complete block design included four treatments: I—control, II—sludge, III—mycorrhiza, [...] Read more.
This three-year study evaluated the effects of various soil amendments on growth parameters and heavy metal (HM) accumulation in above- and belowground biomass of Miscanthus x giganteus (MxG), assessing its phytoremediation potential. A randomised complete block design included four treatments: I—control, II—sludge, III—mycorrhiza, and IV—MxG ash. All experimental pots were filled with soil spiked with Cd (100 mg kg−1) and Hg (20 mg kg−1). Aboveground biomass yield ranged from 3.44 to 5.59 tDM ha−1, with Cd and Hg concentrations in biomass varying from 5.98 to 14.62 mg Cd kg−1 and 41.8 to 383.9 μg Hg kg−1, respectively. Belowground biomass mass ranged from 6.90 to 8.30 tDM ha−1, with Cd and Hg concentrations between 44.3 and 57.2 mg Cd kg−1 and 4.24 to 6.05 mg Hg kg−1, respectively. Enrichment coefficients (EC) in aboveground biomass ranged from 0.060 to 0.146 for Cd and 0.002 to 0.019 for Hg. Belowground biomass EC values ranged from 0.44 to 0.57 for Cd and 0.21 to 0.30 for Hg. The translocation factor (TF) varied from 0.104 to 0.145 for Cd and 0.008 to 0.024 for Hg. Our findings suggest that miscanthus is more effective for heavy metal phytostabilisation and biomass production in moderately contaminated soils than for phytoextraction. Full article
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19 pages, 1165 KiB  
Article
Integrated (Statistical) Analysis of Honey Enriched with Aromatic Herbs: Phenolic Profile, Heavy Metal and NIR Spectroscopy
by Berat Durmishi, Vesna Knights, Tamara Jurina, Smajl Rizani, Gorica Pavlovska, Valbonë Mehmeti, Ana Jurinjak Tušek, Maja Benković, Davor Valinger and Jasenka Gajdoš Kljusurić
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2598; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082598 - 17 Aug 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
Honey is recognized as a nutritionally rich and functional option, often used as a natural sweetener due to its content of glucose, fructose, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. Its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are well known. Recently, interest has grown in functional [...] Read more.
Honey is recognized as a nutritionally rich and functional option, often used as a natural sweetener due to its content of glucose, fructose, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. Its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are well known. Recently, interest has grown in functional honey enriched with bioactive plant components, such as extracts of rosemary, lavender, oregano, and sage, which can enhance phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. However, such enrichment may alter honey’s sensory characteristics and introduce contaminants, including heavy metals, necessitating comprehensive quality assessment. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical and functional quality of honey enriched with aromatic plant extracts from Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia, using an integrated approach. The research included the quantification of total phenolic compounds (TPCs), analysis of heavy metal content, and the application of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy with two devices (laboratory and portable). The results showed that geographical origin and herbal additions significantly affect TPC and heavy metal concentrations. Honey from Kosovo had the highest TPC, while Albanian honey showed higher concentrations of iron and nickel. Enrichment with oregano and rosemary significantly increased TPC and, levels of heavy metals such as lead and nickel. These findings underscore both the nutritional potential and safety considerations of enriched honey products. Accurate, non-destructive techniques like NIR spectroscopy offer valuable tools for quality control; however, further work is needed to evaluate sensory acceptance and long-term safety of enriched honey. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Processes and Systems)
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32 pages, 1553 KiB  
Review
Hydrometallurgical Treatment of EAF By-Products for Metal Recovery: Opportunities and Challenges
by Ewa Rudnik
Metals 2025, 15(8), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080914 - 17 Aug 2025
Viewed by 250
Abstract
The electric arc furnace (EAF) is a key technology in the steel production industry, particularly for recycling scrap iron. It plays a crucial role in the shift to low-carbon metallurgy, responding to the growing demand for more sustainable production methods. Alongside its environmental [...] Read more.
The electric arc furnace (EAF) is a key technology in the steel production industry, particularly for recycling scrap iron. It plays a crucial role in the shift to low-carbon metallurgy, responding to the growing demand for more sustainable production methods. Alongside its environmental and energy benefits, the EAF process generates significant amounts of solid by-products, including dust (EAFD) and slag (EAFS). These wastes are not only rich in base metals but also contain critical elements, which have attracted increasing scientific and industrial interest. Depending on the waste type, key metals such as zinc (from EAFD) and chromium, vanadium, and titanium (from EAFS) are targeted for recovery. This review examines the chemical and phase compositions of these wastes, various leaching techniques (often combined with pretreatment stages), and methods for final metal recovery, either in their pure form or as compounds. Key challenges in hydrometallurgical routes include chloride contamination, the dissolution of refractory zinc ferrite, and impurity management. Despite current limited industrial adoption, hydrometallurgical approaches show significant promise as efficient and environmentally friendly solutions for resource recycling, offering high-purity metal recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Metal Extraction and Recycling)
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16 pages, 909 KiB  
Article
Is the Soil in Allotment Gardens Healthy Enough?—Relation Between Organic Matter Content and Selected Heavy Metals
by Dariusz Gruszka, Katarzyna Szopka, Iwona Gruss and Maja Złocka
Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7424; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167424 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 334
Abstract
This study was conducted in nine allotment garden complexes in Wrocław, West Poland (Central Europe). Soil samples were collected from each garden and analyzed for their total concentrations of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd, alongside the percentage of organic carbon C. Contaminant levels [...] Read more.
This study was conducted in nine allotment garden complexes in Wrocław, West Poland (Central Europe). Soil samples were collected from each garden and analyzed for their total concentrations of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd, alongside the percentage of organic carbon C. Contaminant levels varied widely between sites: Zn ranged from 101.1 to 3464.5 mg/kg, Cu from 24.93 to 322.45 mg/kg, Cd from 0.51 to 6.31 mg/kg, and Pb from 19.92 to 401.85 mg/kg. The highest metal contamination was found for the garden complex placed on the former impact of the Hutmen. The organic carbon content ranged from 2.12% to 7.64%, indicating substantial variability in organic matter levels across the studied sites. This variability may significantly influence the soils’ capacity to retain heavy metals. A significant positive correlation was observed between soil organic carbon and the total concentrations of Pb, Cu and Zn, suggesting that soils richer in organic matter may retain higher levels of heavy metals. These findings underscore the dual role of organic matter as both a beneficial soil component and a potential contributor to heavy metal retention in urban garden soils. Protecting and enhancing SOM in polluted soils is a beneficial strategy, remediating environmental damage while aligning with global sustainability goals. Full article
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34 pages, 4350 KiB  
Review
Carbon-Based Nanomaterials in Water and Wastewater Treatment Processes
by Krzysztof Piaskowski, Renata Świderska-Dąbrowska and Tomasz Dąbrowski
Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7414; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167414 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
The observed increase in the diversity and level of pollutant content in the water environment forces the development of more effective technologies for their removal. Using nanomaterials in water and wastewater treatment offers numerous opportunities to remove organic and inorganic contaminants that are [...] Read more.
The observed increase in the diversity and level of pollutant content in the water environment forces the development of more effective technologies for their removal. Using nanomaterials in water and wastewater treatment offers numerous opportunities to remove organic and inorganic contaminants that are hardly removable in conventional processes. In this group, carbon-based nanomaterials, mainly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene (Gr), and graphene oxide (GO), are very popular. This review aims to present the directions and diversity of applications of carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) in water and wastewater technology, as well as the challenges and environmental dangers that new solutions entail. Authors also present the results of the research on the changes in properties of GO produced in the laboratory as water suspension and a freeze-dried product over time. The results confirm the significant influence of the form of graphene oxide and its storage time on the structural properties, hydrophilicity, and stability of GO. Therefore, they should be considered when selecting an adsorbent or reaction catalyst in environmental applications for developing new greener and sustainable methods of treatment and purification, which use fewer reagents and release safer products. Full article
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