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Search Results (949)

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Keywords = reusable materials

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19 pages, 6403 KB  
Review
Recent Advances and Challenges in Biomolecule-Based Laccase Mimics for Environmental Applications
by Zhiliang Liu, Ling Liu, Yu Liu, Yuxuan Wang and Linling Yu
Catalysts 2025, 15(10), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15100932 - 1 Oct 2025
Abstract
Natural laccase is an environmentally friendly biocatalyst in the degradation of a broad range of toxic pollutants because its catalysis reaction does not require or produce toxic reactants and byproducts. However, its inherent limitations, such as operational sensitivity, poor stability, and difficulty in [...] Read more.
Natural laccase is an environmentally friendly biocatalyst in the degradation of a broad range of toxic pollutants because its catalysis reaction does not require or produce toxic reactants and byproducts. However, its inherent limitations, such as operational sensitivity, poor stability, and difficulty in recovery/reusability, have significantly restricted its practical environmental applications. Consequently, in recent years, researchers have focused on the development of sustainable catalysts to mimic natural laccase. This review focuses on biomolecule-based laccase mimics, which are derived from nucleotides, nucleic acids, amino acids, peptides, and proteins, summarizing their environmental applications. These biomolecule-based laccase mimics not only overcome the limitations of natural laccase by offering advantages such as high stability, ease of recycling, and long-term storage but also exhibit excellent biodegradability, making them green and sustainable catalytic materials. This study aims to present recent progress in biomolecule-based laccase mimics, as well as their challenges, and to offer future directions in laccase-like catalysts for environmental applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biocatalysis)
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12 pages, 3168 KB  
Article
Fabrication of Yeast-Immobilized Porous Scaffolds Using a Water-in-Water Emulsion-Templating Strategy
by Chuya Zhao, Yuanyuan Sun, Haihua Zhou, Chuanbang Xu, Yun Zhu, Daifeng Chen and Shengmiao Zhang
Catalysts 2025, 15(10), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15100925 - 28 Sep 2025
Abstract
This study introduces an efficient, all-aqueous emulsion-templating strategy for fabricating highly tunable yeast immobilization carriers with superior biocatalytic performance. Utilizing cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to stabilize dextran/polyethylene glycol (Dex/PEG) water-in-water emulsions, an architecture-controlled void is obtained by crosslinking the PEG-rich phase with variable concentrations [...] Read more.
This study introduces an efficient, all-aqueous emulsion-templating strategy for fabricating highly tunable yeast immobilization carriers with superior biocatalytic performance. Utilizing cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to stabilize dextran/polyethylene glycol (Dex/PEG) water-in-water emulsions, an architecture-controlled void is obtained by crosslinking the PEG-rich phase with variable concentrations of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) (10–25 wt%). This approach successfully yielded macroporous networks, enabling precise tuning of void diameters from 10.4 to 6.6 μm and interconnected pores from 2.2 to 1.4 μm. The optimally designed carrier, synthesized with 15 wt% PEGDA, featured 9.6 μm voids and robust mechanical strength (0.82 MPa), and facilitated highly efficient yeast encapsulation (~100%). The immobilized yeast demonstrated exceptional fermentation activity, remarkable storage stability (maintaining > 95% productivity after 4 weeks), and high reusability (85% activity retention after seven cycles). These enhancements are attributed to the material’s excellent water retention capacity and the provision of a stable microenvironment. This green and straightforward method represents a significant advance in industrial cell immobilization, offering unparalleled operational stability, protection, and design flexibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biocatalysis)
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15 pages, 2896 KB  
Article
Platinum Atom-Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes as Efficient Sensors for CO and CO2: A Theoretical Investigation
by Natalia P. Boroznina, Sergey V. Boroznin, Irina V. Zaporotskova, Pavel A. Zaporotskov, Dmitry F. Sergeev, Govindhasamy Murugadoss, Nachimuthu Venkatesh and Shaik Gouse Peera
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050086 - 26 Sep 2025
Abstract
This study presents a theoretical investigation of platinum-modified single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) of types (6.0) and (6.6) for their potential application as gas sensor materials. Quantum chemical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were performed to evaluate the interaction mechanisms with carbon monoxide [...] Read more.
This study presents a theoretical investigation of platinum-modified single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) of types (6.0) and (6.6) for their potential application as gas sensor materials. Quantum chemical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were performed to evaluate the interaction mechanisms with carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules. The results revealed that pristine SWCNTs exhibit weak and unstable interactions with CO and CO2, indicating limited sensing capabilities. However, the modification with platinum atoms significantly enhanced their adsorption properties. The most energetically favorable configuration was found when the platinum atom was located at the center of a C–C bond on the SWCNT surface, ensuring the stability of the metal-functionalized system. The Pt-modified SWCNTs exhibited stable sorption interactions with CO and CO2, characterized by weak van der Waals forces, enabling the reusability of the sensor without contamination. Additionally, the adsorption of these gas molecules induced changes in the band gap of the nanocomposite system, indicating a variation in conductivity upon gas exposure. The distinct band gap changes for the CO and CO2 adsorption suggest the selectivity of the sensor towards each gas. Overall, the results demonstrate that platinum modification effectively enhances the sensing performance of SWCNTs, paving the way for the development of highly sensitive and selective nanosensors for CO and CO2 detection based on changes in electronic properties upon gas adsorption. Full article
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14 pages, 2152 KB  
Article
Sustainable Solid-Phase Extractant Based on Spent Coffee Waste-Derived Activated Carbon Functionalized with 1,10-Phenanthroline-5-Amine for Trace Metals from Groundwater Samples
by Awadh O. AlSuhaimi
Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8404; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188404 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 283
Abstract
In this work, spent coffee grounds, an abundant agro-waste, were transformed into activated carbon, providing a sustainable substrate for immobilizing 1,10-phenanthroline-5-amine chelating agent, to develop a solid-phase extractant for trace metals. ATR-IR, TGA, and XPS analyses confirmed successful functionalization and revealed the material’s [...] Read more.
In this work, spent coffee grounds, an abundant agro-waste, were transformed into activated carbon, providing a sustainable substrate for immobilizing 1,10-phenanthroline-5-amine chelating agent, to develop a solid-phase extractant for trace metals. ATR-IR, TGA, and XPS analyses confirmed successful functionalization and revealed the material’s physicochemical properties. Sorption studies showed optimal uptake at pH 6.0–6.5, enabling rapid extraction of Mn(II), Cd(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II) within 30 min, with capacities of 13.5, 8.4, 13.3, and 8.5 mg g−1, respectively. The prepared chelator was employed as a packed sorbent in standard SPE cartridges operated with a conventional SPE apparatus, achieving efficient extraction and preconcentration of the studied ions from both certified reference material (BCR-609) and real groundwater. The results obtained closely matched certified values, while spiked recoveries ranged from 96.00% to 106.80%. These findings highlight the effective valorization of agricultural waste into a reusable, high-performance SPE sorbent with strong potential for water purification and trace metal recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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15 pages, 2336 KB  
Article
Tribo-Catalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange Dye via Cu/Al2O3 Nanoparticles
by Claudia Cirillo, Mariagrazia Iuliano, Sana Abrar, Elena Navarrete Astorga and Maria Sarno
Lubricants 2025, 13(9), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants13090418 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
In this study, we report, for the first time, the tribo-catalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) using Cu/Al2O3 nanoparticles under mechanical stirring conditions. The hybrid catalyst was synthesized via a wet impregnation method and characterized through different techniques, confirming structural [...] Read more.
In this study, we report, for the first time, the tribo-catalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) using Cu/Al2O3 nanoparticles under mechanical stirring conditions. The hybrid catalyst was synthesized via a wet impregnation method and characterized through different techniques, confirming structural integrity and compositional uniformity. When subjected to friction generated by a PTFE-coated magnetic stir bar, Cu/Al2O3 nanoparticles exhibited high tribo-catalytic activity, achieving up to 95% MO degradation within 10 h under dark conditions. The observed activity surpasses that of alumina alone and is attributed to the synergistic effects between copper and alumina, facilitating charge separation and enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Tribo-catalytic efficiency was further influenced by stirring speed and contact area, confirming the key role of mechanical friction. Reusability tests demonstrated stable performance over five cycles, highlighting the material’s durability and potential for practical environmental remediation applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribo-Catalysis)
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19 pages, 4844 KB  
Article
Electrochemical Oxidation Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye on 3D-Printed Anode Electrodes
by Claudia Cirillo, Mariagrazia Iuliano, Muhammad Shahzad, Emanuela Grazia Di Martino, Luca Gallucci, Nicola Funicello, Gerardo Iannone, Salvatore De Pasquale and Maria Sarno
Polymers 2025, 17(18), 2499; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17182499 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 298
Abstract
This study presents an innovative strategy for the electrochemical degradation of methylene blue (MB) using 3D-printed helical anode electrodes fabricated from commercially available conductive Polylactic acid/carbon black (PLA/CB) filaments. The choice of PLA/CB is particularly significant, since the amorphous PLA matrix combined with [...] Read more.
This study presents an innovative strategy for the electrochemical degradation of methylene blue (MB) using 3D-printed helical anode electrodes fabricated from commercially available conductive Polylactic acid/carbon black (PLA/CB) filaments. The choice of PLA/CB is particularly significant, since the amorphous PLA matrix combined with a percolating carbon black network provides a biodegradable, low-cost, and chemically versatile polymer composite that can be transformed from a simple prototyping filament into a functional electrochemical platform. Through a combination of chemical/electrochemical activation and electrodeposition of copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs), the polymer electrodes were successfully converted into highly efficient catalytic platforms. Beyond material functionalization, the influence of electrode geometry was systematically investigated, comparing single-, double-, and triple-spiral helical configurations. The double-spiral geometry proved the most effective, offering the best balance between active surface area and electrolyte flow dynamics. Under mild conditions (2 V, pH 6, 0.1 M NaCl), the system achieved up to 97% MB removal, while also demonstrating remarkable stability and reusability over at least ten consecutive cycles. These results highlight the synergistic role of polymer chemistry, arrangement, and metal decoration, demonstrating how 3D printing can be a useful platform for the easy production of electrodes with different geometries, even starting from simple conductive filaments reused in sustainable and scalable functional materials for advanced wastewater treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on 3D Printing of Polymer and Polymer Composites)
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21 pages, 1571 KB  
Article
Synergistic ZnO–CuO/Halloysite Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin with High Stability and Reusability
by Willams A. Albuquerque, Adilson J. Neres Filho, Yonny Romaguera-Barcelay, Santiago Medina-Carrasco, Maria del Mar Orta, Pollyana Trigueiro and Ramón Raudel Peña-Garcia
Minerals 2025, 15(9), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15090977 - 15 Sep 2025
Viewed by 355
Abstract
This study focused on creating a novel material by integrating ZnO and CuO nanoparticles into the structure of halloysite using a hydrothermal method. The formation of the nanocomposite was validated through X-ray diffraction and Raman analysis, which confirmed the presence of ZnO and [...] Read more.
This study focused on creating a novel material by integrating ZnO and CuO nanoparticles into the structure of halloysite using a hydrothermal method. The formation of the nanocomposite was validated through X-ray diffraction and Raman analysis, which confirmed the presence of ZnO and CuO phases without compromising the structure of halloysite. Microscopic analysis revealed a well-distributed presence of metallic oxide nanoparticles within the nanotubular structure of halloysite, which adhered to both the outer and inner surfaces of the clay mineral. Optical characterization identified a substantial density of defects, which played a key role in improving the performance of the supported semiconductors. Furthermore, the narrow band gap at 3.02 eV promoted the mobility of photogenerated charges. Photocatalytic tests yielded promising results, demonstrating a synergistic effect between photocatalysis and adsorption processes that positively influenced the removal of ciprofloxacin from solutions. The material achieved up to 76% removal of the antibiotic within 120 min, utilizing a catalyst concentration of 0.5 g L−1 with a pollutant concentration of 20 mg L−1. In reuse experiments, the material exhibited high recyclability even after multiple reaction cycles. Halloysite-based nanocomposites represent a strategic advancement in environmental remediation technologies, contributing to the development of clean, effective, and reusable materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Use of Clay Minerals in Adsorption and Photocatalysis Technologies)
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22 pages, 2135 KB  
Systematic Review
Barriers and Potentials for Circular Use of Waste Wood in Construction and Demolition Sector with Special Focus on Germany
by Arbnore Cakaj, Linnea Hesse, Andreas Krause, Hubert Speth and Jan Lüdtke
Urban Sci. 2025, 9(9), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9090367 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 375
Abstract
The construction and demolition (C&D) industry generates nearly one-third of the total global waste. In response, the European Union is driving urgent efforts to enhance material circularity through the promotion of renewable materials. However, research primarily targets materials such as concrete, plastics, steel, [...] Read more.
The construction and demolition (C&D) industry generates nearly one-third of the total global waste. In response, the European Union is driving urgent efforts to enhance material circularity through the promotion of renewable materials. However, research primarily targets materials such as concrete, plastics, steel, bricks, and gypsum, while wood as a renewable material presents a clear research gap. This study aims to bridge the gap by identifying key barriers and potentials for reusing wood waste in the C&D sector. As a result, factors influencing wood reusability are categorized into economic, societal, environmental, technical, and regulatory dimensions. Economic and environmental factors addressing high costs, unstable markets, and contamination are the most discussed barriers for an enhanced circular use of wood. Specifically, material irregularities and impurities represent technical barriers that may make wood demand less attractive. Societal barriers, such as knowledge gaps regarding the quality of secondary materials, established standards, and legal limits are further barriers that are mentioned in the literature. Therefore, potential future indicators to support a circular approach in the construction sector, including regulatory actions and incentives, are recommended to promote recovered secondary materials. This approach would facilitate shared stakeholder cooperation, knowledge sharing, and market development. Full article
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17 pages, 10657 KB  
Article
Ultrashort Pulsed Laser Fabrication of High-Performance Polymer-Film-Based Moulds for Rapid Prototyping of Microfluidic Devices
by Pieter Daniël Haasbroek, Mischa Wälty, Michael Grob and Per Magnus Kristiansen
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(9), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9090313 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 437
Abstract
Microfluidic device prototyping demands rapid, cost-effective, and high-precision mould fabrication, yet ultrashort pulsed laser structuring of polymer inserts remains underexplored. This study presents a novel method for fabricating microfluidic mould inserts using femtosecond (fs) laser ablation of polyimide (PI) films, achieving high precision [...] Read more.
Microfluidic device prototyping demands rapid, cost-effective, and high-precision mould fabrication, yet ultrashort pulsed laser structuring of polymer inserts remains underexplored. This study presents a novel method for fabricating microfluidic mould inserts using femtosecond (fs) laser ablation of polyimide (PI) films, achieving high precision from design to prototype. PI films (250 µm) were structured using a 355 nm fs laser (300 fs, 500 kHz, 0.95 J/cm2) in a photochemically dominated ablation regime and bonded to reusable steel plates. Injection moulding trials with cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) were conducted with diverse designs, including concentration gradient generators (CGG), organ-on-chip (OOC) with 20 µm bridges, and double emulsion droplet generators (DEDG) with 100–500 µm channels, ensuring robustness across complex geometries. The method achieved near 1:1 replication (errors < 2%, microchannel height tolerances < 1%, Sa = 0.02 µm in channels, 0.26 µm in laser-structured areas), machining times under 2 h, and mould durability over 100 cycles without significant deterioration. The PI’s heat-retarding effect mimicked variothermal moulding, ensuring complete micro-penetration without specialised equipment. By reducing material costs using PI films and reusable steel plates, enabling rapid iterations within hours, and supporting industry-compatible prototyping, this approach lowers barriers for small-scale labs. It enables rapid prototyping of diagnostic lab-on-chip devices and supports decentralised manufacturing for biomedical, chemical, and environmental applications, offering a versatile, cost-effective tool for early-stage development. Full article
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5 pages, 702 KB  
Abstract
Thermal Simulations and Experimental Tests to Support the Development of a Small Reusable Spacecraft
by Diana Martins, Joseph El Rassi, Amandine Denis, Simone Del Monte, Bernd Helber, Giovanni Medici, Jaime Gutierrez, Francesco Barato, Lorenzo Gerolin, Paulius Kirstukas and Valentina Raimondi
Proceedings 2025, 129(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025129019 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 181
Abstract
The rapid development of the space economy is posing big challenges, a major one being space debris mitigation. In this respect, the Horizon Europe EARS project aims to introduce the disruptive concept of reusability in the SmallSat market, taking a step towards a [...] Read more.
The rapid development of the space economy is posing big challenges, a major one being space debris mitigation. In this respect, the Horizon Europe EARS project aims to introduce the disruptive concept of reusability in the SmallSat market, taking a step towards a more sustainable exploitation of space. The main objective of EARS has been to outline the concept of operations (CONOPS) of a small reusable satellite and the maturation of the relevant key enabling technologies needed to guarantee safe re-entry of the satellite and its payload. In this paper, we present the preliminary design of the EARS spacecraft and its CONOPS and mission engineering with an overview of the simulations conducted to assess the aerodynamic load during spacecraft re-entry and the Plasmatron tests executed for the selection and characterization of the materials suitable for the construction of an inflatable thermal protection system to guarantee a safe atmospheric re-entry. Full article
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21 pages, 950 KB  
Article
The Sensory and Emotional Response to Different Tableware Materials
by Ana Pantović, Ilija Djekić, Tanja Petrović and Nikola Tomić
Foods 2025, 14(18), 3151; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14183151 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 348
Abstract
The high environmental impact caused by the accumulation of single-use plastic calls for measures to curb this problem, from a ban on single-use plastic tableware to the production of a wide range of biodegradable and reusable products. The aim of this study was [...] Read more.
The high environmental impact caused by the accumulation of single-use plastic calls for measures to curb this problem, from a ban on single-use plastic tableware to the production of a wide range of biodegradable and reusable products. The aim of this study was to investigate how tableware made of different materials affects consumers’ sensory perception and emotional and hedonic responses when eating the same meal. In this study, four types of meals of animal or plant origin were selected for the experiments, which were served warm or cold. Accordingly, four groups of university students were instructed to taste the corresponding meal while using three sets of tableware made of different materials: polypropylene, wood/cardboard, and a stainless steel/ceramic/glass control set (regular set). Overall, the results suggest that the use of regular tableware elicited a positive emotional profile, while the use of disposable, wooden, and plastic tableware elicited negative emotional responses, which is consistent with the acceptability of the meal samples—regular tableware received higher ratings, while both types of disposable tableware received lower ratings. Finally, the material of the tableware only led to changes in odor and flavor perception when warm-served meals were sampled—higher intensities were reported when students used the regular tableware sets. Wooden cutlery imparted an atypical woody flavor to the meals, regardless of the type of meal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Design for Enhancing Quality and Sensory Attributes)
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15 pages, 967 KB  
Article
Assessment of Bacterial Presence Among New and “In Use” Resealable Biomaterials Within the Pediatric Dental Clinic
by Gavin Banning, Cindy Kim, Carter Wilkerson, Shelley J. Williams, Karl Kingsley and Victoria Sullivan
Hygiene 2025, 5(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/hygiene5030042 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 607
Abstract
Background: Dental offices and clinics utilize a variety of dental materials that are delivered in reusable containers and dispensers. However, many of these materials, including NeoPutty, BC Putty, Flowable, and Diapex, may be subject to bacterial contamination and microbial exposures from the surrounding [...] Read more.
Background: Dental offices and clinics utilize a variety of dental materials that are delivered in reusable containers and dispensers. However, many of these materials, including NeoPutty, BC Putty, Flowable, and Diapex, may be subject to bacterial contamination and microbial exposures from the surrounding dental office environment. Objectives: The aim of this study was to quantify and identify microbial contamination, specifically in regard to these reusable dental materials. Methods: Surfaces of new and used reusable and resealable tubes where the material dispenses and the interior surfaces of the cap were swabbed and cultured. DNA was isolated from each sample and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to determine the presence or absence of microbial contamination, as well as the relative abundance. Results: Microbial contamination was observed among all of the “in use” samples from both the dispensing end and the interior surfaces of the cap and was strongly associated with the amount of usage. Conclusions: These data suggest that environmental contamination may be present in measurable and quantifiable amounts on reusable and resealable dental materials, which suggest the need to create protocols for sanitizing the surfaces of reusable materials to reduce the presence of microbial contamination identified in similar clinical settings. Full article
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45 pages, 2842 KB  
Review
Bio-Based Sorbents for Marine Oil Spill Response: Advances in Modification, Circularity, and Waste Valorization
by Célia Karina Maia Cardoso, Ícaro Thiago Andrade Moreira, Antônio Fernando de Souza Queiroz, Olívia Maria Cordeiro de Oliveira and Ana Katerine de Carvalho Lima Lobato
Resources 2025, 14(9), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14090140 - 8 Sep 2025
Viewed by 638
Abstract
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, [...] Read more.
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
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21 pages, 2849 KB  
Systematic Review
A Decision Framework for Waste Foundry Sand Reuse: Integrating Performance Metrics and Leachate Safety via Meta-Analysis
by Ferdinand Niyonyungu, Aurobindo Ogra and Ntebo Ngcobo
Constr. Mater. 2025, 5(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/constrmater5030063 - 8 Sep 2025
Viewed by 527
Abstract
The reuse of Waste Foundry Sand (WFS) in construction remains constrained by fragmented research, unclear regulatory pathways, and inconsistent assessments of environmental safety and material performance. This study introduces a novel decision-making framework that systematically integrates mechanical performance metrics and leachate toxicity data [...] Read more.
The reuse of Waste Foundry Sand (WFS) in construction remains constrained by fragmented research, unclear regulatory pathways, and inconsistent assessments of environmental safety and material performance. This study introduces a novel decision-making framework that systematically integrates mechanical performance metrics and leachate toxicity data to classify WFS into three categories: Approved, Reusable with Treatment, or Rejected. The framework is based on a bibliometric analysis of 822 publications and a meta-analysis of 45 experimental mix designs and 30 peer-reviewed leachate studies. Normalized compressive strength (NSR), water-to-cement (w/c) ratio, and heavy metal leachate concentrations are used as screening criteria. Thresholds are benchmarked against regulatory limits from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the European Union Landfill Directive, and South Africa’s National Waste Standards. Validation using field data from a foundry in Gauteng Province, South Africa, confirms the framework’s practicality and adaptability. Results indicate that over 80 percent of WFS samples comply with environmental thresholds, and mixes with 10-to-30 percent WFS substitution often outperform control specimens in terms of compressive strength. However, leachate exceedances for cobalt and lead in certain chemically bonded sands highlight the need for batch-specific evaluation and potential treatment. The proposed framework supports data-driven, transparent reuse decisions that enhance environmental compliance and promote circular material flows in the built environment. Future work should focus on digital implementation, life-cycle monitoring, and expanding the framework to other industrial byproducts. Full article
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17 pages, 2631 KB  
Article
Adsorption of Phosphates from Wastewater Using MgAlFe-Layered Double Hydroxides
by Oanamari Daniela Orbuleţ, Liliana Bobirică, Mirela Enache (Cişmaşu), Ramona Cornelia Pațac, Magdalena Bosomoiu and Cristina Modrogan
Environments 2025, 12(9), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12090316 - 7 Sep 2025
Viewed by 809
Abstract
Phosphates pollution, primarily from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharge, is a major contributor to water eutrophication, adversely affecting aquatic ecosystems. This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and phosphates adsorption performance of a MgAlFe-layered double hydroxide (MgAlFe-LDH) with a 2:1:1 cationic ratio. The material [...] Read more.
Phosphates pollution, primarily from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharge, is a major contributor to water eutrophication, adversely affecting aquatic ecosystems. This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and phosphates adsorption performance of a MgAlFe-layered double hydroxide (MgAlFe-LDH) with a 2:1:1 cationic ratio. The material was prepared via co-precipitation and characterized using digital microscopy, XRD, BET, XPS, and FTIR. Adsorption experiments were conducted at pH 3 and 9 to investigate equilibrium, kinetics, and reusability. The MgAlFe-LDH exhibited a high maximum adsorption capacity (q_max ≈ 215 mg/g) largely independent of pH, with adsorption well described by the Langmuir model. Kinetic studies revealed a pseudo-first-order mechanism, indicating that adsorption is dominated by surface diffusion and electrostatic interactions. Phosphate removal occurs through a dual mechanism involving rapid electrostatic attraction at protonated surface sites and slower ion exchange in the LDH interlayers. The material retained over 75% of its adsorption capacity after five consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles, highlighting its potential for sustainable phosphate recovery. Overall, the MgAlFe-LDH represents a promising, reusable adsorbent for phosphorus removal from wastewater, supporting circular economy strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies of Water and Wastewater Treatment (2nd Edition))
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