Functionalized metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are increasingly recognized as efficient materials for the selective removal of synthetic dyes from aqueous solutions. To enhance selectivity, MOFs were functionalized with both electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups, specifically –NH₂, –COOH, and –SO₃H, thereby adjusting their surface characteristics to favor interactions with oppositely charged dye species. Methylene blue and Congo red were selected as model cationic and anionic dyes, respectively, and adsorption performance was evaluated across a range of pH values and temperatures. Key interaction forces such as electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, and pore accessibility were considered. Adsorption behavior was analyzed through kinetic and isotherm models, including pseudo-second-order and Langmuir/Freundlich equations, revealing that the functionalized MOFs demonstrated both high dye uptake and fast adsorption rates. This work examines how cationic and anionic dyes interact with chemically modified MOFs, with an emphasis on elucidating their adsorption mechanisms. Characterization techniques including zeta potential, FTIR spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy and pH-responsive adsorption studies confirmed that adsorption mechanisms were influenced by both the dye charge and the functional groups present on the MOFs. It was observed that amino-functionalized MOFs were more effective in capturing anionic dyes, whereas sulfonated frameworks showed enhanced binding with cationic dyes. These results underscore the role of precise functionalization in tailoring the adsorption properties of MOFs. The mechanistic insights gained from this study can inform the design of next-generation MOF-based materials aimed at efficient and selective dye removal in wastewater treatment applications.

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for human health, playing a crucial role in antioxidant defense and immune regulation as a key component of enzymes and proteins [1]. Although not essential for plants, small amounts of Se can benefit some species by improving their tolerance to environmental stresses [2]. Plants cultivated in Se-deficient soils naturally exhibited low Se levels, a concern expected to intensify with climate change. By the end of the century, 66% of croplands—including significant areas in Europe—are expected to face Se depletion [3], potentially exacerbating dietary deficiencies that already affect up to 1 billion people worldwide [3]. To counteract this, the use of Se-containing fertilizers has been proposed as a possible solution. This study explored the biofortification of pea (Pisum sativum L.) microgreens through Se seed priming, a cost-effective and environmentally friendly technique that enhances germination uniformity and seedling vigor. Seeds underwent nutripriming with sodium selenate (25–100 µM Se) for 6 and 12 h, with hydroprimed and unprimed seeds serving as controls. After treatment, one batch of seeds was analyzed for electrolyte leakage, while another was sown to evaluate germination dynamics and biomass accumulation. Upon harvest, Se content was quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy, alongside analyses of chlorophylls, soluble sugars, organic acids, total phenolics, and antioxidant activity [4-5]. The results showed that Se nutripriming improved membrane integrity by reducing electrolyte leakage in pea seeds. The treatment influenced the emergence and growth of microgreens. The 6 h priming treatment led to superior agronomic performance and biomass accumulation compared to the 12 h treatment, though unprimed seeds exhibited the highest emergence rate and consequent biomass production. Nonetheless, nutripriming increased Se concentration in microgreens. These findings underscore the need to optimize priming protocols to enhance both seedling emergence and Se uptake, offering a sustainable strategy for developing Se-biofortified crops to address global nutritional deficiencies in the context of climate change.

As the global pursuit of sustainable power intensifies, thermoelectric materials show promise in energy conversion uses such as high-temperature power creation and waste heat recapture. This study explores the high-temperature performance of Holmium–Antimony–Tellurium (Ho-Sb-Te) materials and how they perform together compatibly. It also expertly deposits them using pulsed electrodeposition onto Bi2SbTe3, Zn2Sb3, and SiGe substrates to optimally control stoichiometry. The thermoelectric properties studied were Seebeck coefficient, electrical resistivity, thermal conductivity, and the figure of merit (ZT). These properties were carefully measured experimentally within the 300–1250 K range. Simulations were conducted within Ansys Workbench to assess several compatibility factors. Efficiency greatly improved as a result of increasing operating temperature, and the leg-pair (2 pairs, 3 pairs and 4 pairs) results show peak values of 23.68 %, 36.24 %, and 46 %, respectively. SiGe had the highest compatibility factor, in the range of 1100–1250 K, and this observation confirmed that it is well suited for high-temperature power generation. N-type materials, as a class, exhibited superior levels of thermal and charge transport, thereby rendering them ideal for efficient heat management. This work guides the selection of materials for the improvement of thermoelectric power generation, optimizes leg geometry, and synthesizes techniques. In the future, we will explore composite materials. We will also evaluate the thermal cycling reliability of these materials for real-world deployment.

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus), a fast-growing annual plant, is becoming acknowledged as a very adaptable and sustainable bioresource with diverse applications across several industries. Its production requires few inputs and produces substantial amounts of biomass, rendering it an ecologically sustainable and economically feasible raw resource. The growing interest in kenaf-based materials arises from their superior fibre quality, lignocellulosic structure, and versatility in various climatic environments.

These reviews examine recent advancements in the development of post-harvest machinery for kenaf and its versatile applications in the development of post-harvest processing in the kenaf fibre industry. A systematic literature review approach was employed to source peer-reviewed articles, patents, and technical reports from reputable scientific databases. The methodology involved thematic analysis and comparative evaluation of technological innovations, material performance metrics, and environmental impacts associated with kenaf-based products. Particular focus has been placed on the production techniques and material characterisation of kenaf-derived biochar and its incorporation into polymer matrices for the development of biocomposites. It also examined experimental studies and field data on kenaf’s role in environmental remediation and its potential in carbon sequestration systems. This comprehensive analysis highlights the role of kenaf in advancing circular bioeconomy practices, emphasising its contributions to waste reduction, resource efficiency, and ecological sustainability.

This review provides a valuable foundation for future research and innovation in bio-based materials, underscoring kenaf's potential to drive sustainable development and resilience in material science and environmental engineering.

Packaging waste has become a pressing environmental challenge, prompting industries to rethink their material choices and manufacturing strategies. This paper investigates how smart, informed decisions in selecting packaging materials can contribute meaningfully to sustainability goals. Drawing from the recent academic literature and industry reports, this study maps out the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging materials, including biodegradable bioplastics, recycled polymers, and plant-based composites. It explores how material selection affects not just product protection and shelf life but also environmental outcomes across the lifecycle, from raw material sourcing and energy use in manufacturing to post-consumer waste management and circularity. Key trade-offs such as cost, availability, recyclability, and mechanical performance are critically examined. Special attention is given to emerging innovations like nanomaterials, edible films, and agricultural waste-derived packaging that hold promise but face barriers at scale. This paper also reflects on how policy, consumer preferences, and corporate sustainability commitments are reshaping packaging decisions in sectors like food, retail, and e-commerce. Rather than promoting a single “best” material, the analysis emphasizes context-sensitive choices grounded in lifecycle thinking and systems-level impact. By highlighting both the potential and the complexity of material decisions in sustainable packaging, this paper aims to guide researchers, designers, and industry stakeholders toward more responsible, future-focused approaches.

The urgent need for cleaner energy sources has driven exploration into innovative and sustainable solutions. This study investigates the potential of the invasive aquatic plant, the water hyacinth, to contribute to both energy recovery and blue carbon sequestration. Employing slow pyrolysis, an emerging technology for efficient biomass conversion, this study examines the influence of temperature (300-500°C) and residence time (30-90 minutes) on the production of bio-oil and biochar from water hyacinth in a fixed-bed reactor. The results indicate that while the biochar yield (maximum of 43.74% at 400°C, 30 minutes) was not significantly affected by the tested parameters, the bio-oil yield increased significantly with residence time. Maximum bio-oil yields of 34.34% and 34.03% were achieved at 400°C and 500°C, respectively, both with a 90-minute residence time. The resulting bio-oil exhibited a high heating value of up to 25.84 MJ/kg, suggesting its potential as a renewable fuel. FTIR analysis identified functional groups within the bio-oil, indicating its suitability as a chemical feedstock. This study concludes that slow pyrolysis of the invasive water hyacinth offers a promising pathway for simultaneous energy recovery and blue carbon sequestration, contributing to a cleaner environment and a more sustainable future while also addressing the issue of invasive species proliferation. The dual benefit of waste management and renewable energy generation makes this a highly attractive approach for sustainable development, particularly in regions afflicted by water hyacinth overgrowth.

Desi Gulab (Rosa damascena), a highly valued rose variety, suffers from a short post-harvest shelf life of typically 2–3 days. This study evaluated Modified Atmospheric Packaging (MAP) effectiveness in extending Desi Gulab flower shelf life and preserving quality. Freshly harvested flowers were packaged in Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polypropylene (PP), and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) films, alongside a non-packaged control.

The research involved respiration rate measurements, film property characterization, and gas balance modelling. Quality parameters, including petal colour (L*, a*, b* values), weight loss, internal package gas concentrations (O₂​, CO₂​, N ₂​), and textural properties (peak force, first peak force, stiffness), were monitored over 21 days. A trained sensory panel also evaluated the flowers, with subjective data analysed using a fuzzy logic approach, supported by ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD tests.

The results showed that MAP significantly mitigated weight loss and preserved colour/textural characteristics versus the control, which lost over 60% initial weight by Day 10. PP packaging exhibited superior moisture retention, reducing weight loss to 7 g by Day 10 (from ∼10-11g initial), and maintained the highest initial brightness (L*=55.17 at Day 1). PET, with low permeability, maintained target gas concentrations consistently (O₂​ at 1.8%, CO₂​ at 9.08% by Day 21) and showed strong sustained colour retention (L*=47.5 at Day 21). PET also exhibited the highest correlation (0.91) with fuzzy sensory quality scores, maintaining scores predominantly in the 6–8 range. LDPE provided intermediate results, while the control deteriorated rapidly. Fuzzy logic confirmed PP's stable preservation and PET's overall consistency. This study validates MAP as a promising strategy to extend Desi Gulab’s shelf life, enhancing market potential and reducing post-harvest losses.

The electrochemical synthesis of ortho- and para-hydroxybenzoic acids (o-HBA and p-HBA) utilizing CO₂ as a carbon source represents a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional high-temperature synthetic methods, such as the Kolbe–Schmitt reaction. These hydroxybenzoic acid isomers are valuable intermediates in pharmaceuticals, polymers, and cosmetics. This study presents an integrated approach combining experimental electrochemical analysis with process modeling using Aspen Plus to optimize key parameters affecting product yield and selectivity. Laboratory experiments identified the optimal reaction conditions at an applied potential of −1.2 V (vs. Ag/AgCl), 3 atm CO₂ pressure, and 50 °C, yielding 55.6% o-HBA and 38.2% p-HBA. Electrochemical behavior was further supported by simulations incorporating electrolyte thermodynamics (ELECNRTL) and yield-based reaction blocks (RYield), which accurately reflected observed trends. The model also included a recycle loop that improved the effective CO₂ utilization to over 76.8%, demonstrating process efficiency and resource recovery. Despite slight discrepancies between experimental and simulated yields due to modeling simplifications, the framework proved effective for evaluating process scalability. The study underscores the potential of CO₂-based electrochemical methods as green pathways for producing high-value chemicals while contributing to carbon mitigation strategies. This work lays a foundation for future advancements in reactor design, catalyst development, and industrial integration of CO₂ valorization technologies, aligning with global sustainability goals and the circular carbon economy.

This paper presents the design and performance analysis of a 1-bit reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) operating in the ultra-wideband (UWB) spectrum centered at 28 GHz, targeting next-generation mmWave communications. A novel elliptical patch unit cell integrated with a central horizontal slot is proposed. The structure is optimized for wideband reflection characteristics and includes a PIN diode for achieving dynamic phase switching. The unit cell is constructed on a Rogers RO5880 substrate with low dielectric loss to ensure minimal reflection loss and stable phase response over a wide frequency range.

Using full-wave electromagnetic simulations in CST Microwave Studio, we investigate the S-parameters, phase behavior, and reflection efficiency of the proposed structure across a bandwidth from 26 GHz to 32 GHz. The diode is modeled using a lumped RLC circuit, and both ON and OFF states are evaluated to confirm a near 180° phase shift essential for effective 1-bit RIS operation. In addition to unit cell characterization, we simulate RIS arrays of various sizes to examine the impact on radar cross-section (RCS) and beam shaping capabilities.

The results show that the RIS maintains good matching (S11 < –10 dB), low reflection loss (< 1.5 dB), and consistent phase control, making it suitable for UWB beamforming applications. Future work will explore 2-bit RIS architectures for enhanced resolution and reconfigurability.

Among the by-products of the olive industry, olive leaves are the most abundant, yet their high content of bioactive compounds remains largely underexploited. Their valorization offers good opportunities in various fields, including food conservation. Our work aims to evaluate the performance of olive leaves extracts of ‘cv Picholine Marocaine’ as a natural additive for improving the oxidative stability of various edible vegetable oils, including sunflower, soybean, and olive oils obtained from three extraction technologies: 2-Phase (2P), 3-Phase (3P), and Super Pressure (SP) extraction systems. The aqueous extraction of bioactive compounds was performed using the Soxhlet instrument. Three concentrations of leaf extracts, 200, 400, and 800 ppm, were added to the studied vegetable oils. A physicochemical characterization, including free acidity (FA), peroxide value (PV), extinction coefficients (K232 and K270), chlorophylls content (Chl), and carotenoids content (Cart) was confucted. Fatty acid composition, antioxidant activity (AA), total phenolic compounds (TPC), and total flavonoids content (TFC) were monitored for six months. Combined analysis of variance reveals that treatment with additives, storage time, and their interaction had a highly significant effect (p ≤ 0.001) on almost all investigated parameters. Moreover, storage time was the most important factor influencing the dependent variables. The results of mean comparison show a significant improvement in the investigated parameters, PV, K₂₃₂, K₂₇₀, TPC, and TFC, following the incorporation of 400 and 800 ppm leaf extract. In contrast, no significant effect (p ≥ 0.05) was observed on the fatty acid composition of vegetable oils. Robust simple regression was highlighted between the concentration of leaf extract and both TPC and pigment content. Principal component analysis confirmed the ANOVA results and clustered the enriched olive oils in correlation with the low values of oxidation indices. In conclusion, olive leaves provide a potential by-product to enhance the oxidative stability of vegetable oils.