Thermal storage units are pivotal to effective energy management, yet their efficiency hinges on minimizing thermal resistance during phase change processes. This study proposes a novel octagonal shell-and-tube thermal storage unit integrated with copper nanoparticle-enhanced phase change material (PCM) and three innovative fin configurations—straight dual-radial, tree-like, and root-like—to optimize heat transfer and accelerate melting. The root-like fin design, inspired by natural root morphology, features intricate branching to maximize the surface area and disrupt thermal stratification. Copper nanoparticles (0–8 vol%) are dispersed in the PCM to augment thermal conductivity. Using the Galerkin finite element method, the system is modeled to evaluate melting dynamics and thermal performance. The results reveal that root-like fins outperform conventional designs, reducing melting time by 56% compared to dual-radial fins and 91% relative to tree-like fins, owing to enhanced heat distribution and reduced thermal resistance. Additionally, an 8 vol% nanoparticle concentration improves thermal storage performance by 28.9% over pure PCM, accelerating energy absorption. The synergistic combination of biomimetic root-like fins and nanoparticle doping emerges as a transformative strategy for thermal storage systems, significantly enhancing energy discharge rates and operational efficiency. This study advocates adopting root-like fin architectures with copper nanoparticle-enhanced PCMs in applications such as solar energy storage and industrial waste heat recovery, offering a pathway toward sustainable and high-performance thermal management solutions.

Solid tumors exhibit complex microenvironments that significantly hinder treatment effectiveness. Factors such as cellular heterogeneity, aberrant extracellular matrix, and specific characteristics such as hypoxia and acidic pH contribute to this challenge. This underscores the necessity for modular nanovehicles that are able to tackle multiple targets simultaneously and deliver a diverse array of therapeutic agents to the tumor.¹

Silicasomes, which consist of a mesoporous silica core coated with a lipid bilayer, emerge as ideal nanocarriers for this purpose, as their unique structure allows for sophisticated customization. Their silica core can be loaded with a wide variety of chemotherapeutics, while their lipid exterior enables functionalization with additional therapeutic components. Consequently, these nanosystems can be engineered to implement a multifaceted antitumoral approach, capable of overcoming tumoral obstacles.²

In this study, a bimodular silicasome has been developed for the delivery of chemotherapeutics to solid tumors. The silica core has been used for transporting doxorubicin, while two different complementary therapeutic modules have been integrated into the lipid coating. The first type of add-on module consists of polymeric nanocapsules containing collagenase enzyme, designed to degrade the desmoplastic extracellular matrix and facilitate tumor penetration.³ For the second module, the lipid coating has been modified with beta-cyclodextrin, an oligosaccharide that enables the transportation of hydrophobic drugs, such as paclitaxel, within its interior.

Both modules have been evaluated independently against neuroblastoma. The ability of the beta-cyclodextrin to internalize tumor cells and induce drug-mediated toxicity has been assessed using flow cytometry. In contrast, the efficacy of the collagenase nanocapsules in degrading the extracellular matrix and transporting chemotherapeutics has been tested in a collagen hydrogel 3D model through the use of confocal microscopy. The results show how the supplementation of the silicasomes with these functional modules enhances the antitumoral effect of the treatment, surpassing the efficacy of lone doxorubicin delivery.

As a sequel to the quest to enhance membrane performance for various industrial applications, the chemical combinations of chitosan (CS), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and graphene oxide (GO) were carefully formulated to study the antifouling and tensile behavior of the modified polymer composites while employing dimethylacetamide (DMAc) as a plasticizer to enhance the polymer's fluidity and thermoplasticity.

According to antifouling tests, the flux recovery rates and antifouling capabilities of CS/AgNP/GO, CS/GO, and CS/AgNP membranes depended on their wettability. An increase in the interaction between bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution and the membranes might explain why the flow recovery rate (FRR) was higher, possibly because there were more -NH₂ groups from the DMAc group and -OH groups from the CS, which helped water molecules stick to the negatively charged BSA through electrostatic and hydrogen bonding. The CS/AgNPs/GO composite sample showed a strong ability to prevent fouling, achieving over 77.5% due to greater interfacial intermolecular bonding than that of CS/AgNPs (68.2%) and CS/GO (65.1%), respectively. Effective collision of the membrane constituents during polymer preparation could also be responsible for higher antifouling performance.

In addition, the tensile strength of the modified CS composite was observed to vary from 42.7 to 49.6 MPa as the concentration of DMAc increased. The membrane's tensile strength was significantly influenced by the chemical interaction between DMAc and CS, as these two substances were the sole modifiable components in the composite in this case.

Therefore, efficient chemical interactions of various components within the polymer matrix significantly influenced the membrane’s flux recovery rate, selectivity performance, tensile strength, and ability to prevent fouling.

Electrospun nanofibers based on biocompatible polymers such as chitosan and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) are promising materials for biomedical applications, especially for wound healing and drug delivery. The incorporation of antibiotics into nanofibers can increase their therapeutic potential through local infection control. However, the addition of antibiotics can affect the morphological properties of the fibers, which may impair their performance.

In this study, nanofibers were produced by the electrospinning technique using a mixture of 22% poly(lactic acid) (PLA) in chloroform and 0.02% chitosan in 90% acetic acid at a volume ratio of 1:1. The antibiotics ciprofloxacin and gentamicin were added to the polymer solution at a concentration of 0.1%. The morphology and fiber diameters were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Pure chitosan/PLA nanofibers showed a uniform morphology with an average fiber diameter of 511.39 ± 150.19 nm. The addition of ciprofloxacin increased the average diameter to 675.35 ± 142.30 nm, while gentamicin increased it to 596.60 ± 164.91 nm. SEM images showed morphological differences between the samples, with ciprofloxacin causing thicker and more heterogeneous fibers compared to gentamicin. The increase in fiber diameter after the addition of the antibiotic is related to changes in solution viscosity and conductivity caused by interactions between polymer and antibiotic, e.g., hydrogen bonding. Ciprofloxacin and gentamicin differ in their molecular interactions with the chitosan/PLA matrix, which explains the differences in fiber morphology and diameter. These results are consistent with previous studies showing that impregnation with antibiotics changes the properties of the electrospinning solution and the fiber structure. The incorporation of antibiotics significantly affects the morphological properties of chitosan/PLA nanofibers. Ciprofloxacin causes a significant increase in fiber diameter compared to pure nanofibers. Understanding these effects is essential for the optimization of nanofiber scaffolds for biomedical applications, especially for the controlled delivery of antibiotics.

Introduction:
The application of bioinspired nanocomposites in orthopedic implants marks a significant innovation in biomedical engineering, aimed at overcoming long-standing limitations of conventional implant materials. Traditional implants frequently suffer from poor osseointegration, mechanical mismatch with bone, and vulnerability to infection. Bioinspired nanocomposites, modeled after the hierarchical structures found in natural tissues such as bone and nacre, offer the potential to enhance mechanical performance, biological compatibility, and implant functionality.

Methods:
This study reviews and synthesizes current advancements in the design, fabrication, and functionalization of bioinspired nanocomposite materials for orthopedic use. Emphasis is placed on the integration of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (nHA), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanotubes, and other nanostructured coatings that mimic the extracellular matrix. Methods include comparative evaluations of mechanical properties, surface modifications for biocompatibility, and analyses of antibacterial efficacy through nano-topographical features.

Results:
Bioinspired nanocomposites have been shown to improve osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby enhancing osseointegration. Nanostructured coatings such as TiO₂ nanotubes increase surface hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance, supporting long-term implant stability. Mechanically, these composites offer high stiffness, superior wear resistance, and improved strength-to-weight ratios. Biomimetic combinations of hydroxyapatite, zirconia, and biopolymers have demonstrated effective load transfer and reduced stress shielding. Additionally, antibacterial functionality has been achieved via nanostructured surfaces that deter bacterial adhesion while remaining cytocompatible with host tissues.

Conclusions:
The integration of bioinspired nanocomposites into orthopedic implants provides a multifunctional platform for enhancing clinical outcomes. These materials not only replicate the mechanical and biological properties of native bone, but also introduce new capabilities such as infection resistance and stimuli-responsive behavior. Despite these advancements, challenges including manufacturing scalability, long-term durability, and regulatory compliance remain. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential for translating these innovations from laboratory to clinical practice.

An innovative approach was employed to develop composite membranes that are conducive to the production of advanced electrodes for electrochemical applications based on laser-induced graphene. This technique is based on the laser synthesis of graphene-based nanomaterials, specifically laser-induced graphene and reduced graphene oxide. The synthesis of these materials was performed using CO2 laser (10 mm). Direct laser writing of graphene is commonly used on solid surfaces based on polyimide, polyether sulfone and polyether ether ketone, which are widely used in many applications, including electrochemical processing , water desalination and fuel cells.

Herein, LIG was successfully synthesized on composite membranes composed of amino-functionalized polyether sulfone and carbon black. Comprehensive characterization of the prepared composite membranes and electrodes was carried out, employing various techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, as well as cyclic voltammetry and Nyquist diagrams, to evaluate their surface morphology and thermal stability. The electrochemical performance of laser-induced graphene electrodes (LIGEs) demonstrated substantial enhancements in comparison to the pristine NH2-PES membrane. After optimizing the laser writing parameters for these novel composite membranes, their performance as electrodes was evaluated. Specifically, gold-nanoparticle-modified LIG electrodes (AuNPs/LIG) were successfully employed for the electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA), demonstrating the potential of these materials in sensor applications.

Pesticides are extensively used in agriculture to boost crop productivity. However, despite their benefits, they pose significant environmental risks by leaching into nearby water streams. In developing countries like India, farmers often lack proper training regarding pesticide dosage, leading to excessive application. This overuse results in pesticide accumulation in soil, which eventually contaminates nearby water bodies through runoff. Conventional methods such as filtration, electrolysis, precipitation, ion exchange, and adsorption are employed to remove dissolved pesticides. However, these techniques have inherent limitations, making them less effective in thoroughly treating contaminated water. Nanotechnology, a rapidly advancing field with applications across various sectors, offers promising solutions for addressing these challenges. Nanoparticles can facilitate the mineralization of dissolved pesticides through photocatalytic processes. Thus, harnessing the distinctive properties and diverse applications of nanocatalysts is essential for fostering a greener and more sustainable environment.

In this study, nanomaterials were synthesized using plant extracts through an eco-friendly green synthesis method. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized and assessed for their efficacy in environmental applications, particularly for pesticide degradation. Diaphosphate fertilizer was selected as the target pesticide, given its prevalent use in Indian agriculture. A highly dilute pesticide solution with an absorbance of less than 1 was prepared. Green-synthesized nanoparticles were then introduced into this solution, and the reaction was conducted under light exposure. UV readings were recorded at 1-hour intervals to closely monitor the degradation process. After several hours, a significant reduction in the UV spectra of the pesticide solution was observed, indicating the effectiveness of the synthesized nanoparticles in facilitating pesticide mineralization. This could serve as a pivotal advancement in mitigating pesticide contamination across soil, water, and the broader ecosystem.

Persistence and widespread contamination of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in water systems pose significant environmental and human health risks, However, the methods studied at present are expensive or have high technical requirements and are not used in practical application, necessitating effective and sustainable remediation strategies. Herein, this study investigates the adsorption behavior and interfacial interactions of PFOA on dolomite (DL) and calcined dolomite (CDL) using a synergistic experimental (batch extraction, XRD analyses, FTIR analyses, SEM and so on) and molecular simulation approach. Adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. DL achieved 94% adsorption within the first 2 hours, reaching equilibrium at 4 and 5 hours, respectively. The Langmuir isotherm model fitting results indicate maximum adsorption capacities of 2.16 mg g⁻¹ for DL and 2.58 mg g⁻¹ for CDL. Although the adsorption amount is not high, dolomite is a rich, low-cost and scalable material compared with other high-cost and efficient adsorbents, which can provide a very promising way for the removal of PFOA in practical water pollution systems. Molecular dynamics simulations show that hydrogen bonding controls the adsorption of PFOA on DL, while electrostatic interaction also contributes as a key adsorption mechanism. In addition, hydrophobic interaction is a ubiquitous mechanism that facilitates the adsorption of different perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) on various adsorbents by experimentation. CDL enhances the surface affinity by forming electrostatic interactions of positively charged Ca(OH)2 and the hydrogen bonding of Mg(OH)2. These findings provide mechanistic insights into and supporting data on dolomite’s potential as a tool for real-world pollutant removal. They also inform future advancements in sustainable water treatment technologies.

Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing environmental concern due to the durability and widespread use of plastic materials. These small polymer particles are not effectively removed by conventional wastewater treatment, leading to persistent ecological and economic impacts [1].

Laser-induced photodegradation offers a sustainable method for MP removal by enabling their breakdown into CO₂, H₂O, or potentially valuable byproducts [2]. This study explores the effects of UV laser irradiation on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS) microparticles in water to evaluate their degradation potential.

Using a pulsed Nd:YAG laser (λ=266 nm, E=6.5–12 mJ), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS) microparticles were irradiated in distilled water. After 4 h at 12 mJ, PMMA (10 µm, 0.1% w/v) showed significant degradation due to C=O bond cleavage. PS degradation followed a different path, involving peroxide formation and chain scission, producing carbonyl-containing compounds.

To monitor these changes, we employed optical microscopy, SEM, DLS, UV-VIS, FTIR spectroscopy, and dynamic interfacial tension (DIT) measurements. The DIT analysis indicated that degradation starts at the particle surface and progresses inward via diffusion and structural reorganization. Microscopy and SEM revealed the formation of smaller micro- and nanoparticles post-irradiation.

Research into effective laser photodegradation of MPs is still in its early stages. During laser irradiation of MPs, various byproducts are formed, whose characteristics might exhibit significant levels of pollution and toxicity. Recycling these offers pollution control and resource reuse. However, the environmental impacts must be assessed to avoid harm. Sustainable, greener conversion methods are essential for truly effective and eco-friendly MP management.

Acknowledgements: This research was funded by the Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitization, CNCS-UEFISCDI (project PN-IV-P2-2.1-TE-2023-1686) and the Nucleu Program LAPLAS VII—contract no. 30N/2023.

References:

[1] Wong et al., Sci. Total Environ. 719 (2020)

[2] Paiman et al., Chem. Eng. J. 467 (2023)

The use of nanofiltration technologies for seawater desalination is one of the most effective ways to solve the shortage of water resources. Salt ions in seawater are complex and diverse, and the traditional nanofiltration membrane has a high rejection rate for a single salt solute. However, it is difficult to maintain good rejection rates for a variety of salt ions in mixed or even multi-salt solutions while ensuring a good permeation flux. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare a nanofiltration membrane with good filtration performance in mixed solutions. In this research manuscript, we used the interfacial polymerization method to prepare a polyamide nanofiltration membrane with a small amount of charge on the surface using 1,4-bis (3-aminopropyl)-piperazine and introduced graphite phase carbon nitride treated using solvent green 7 intercalation into the separation layer. The hydrophilicity of the prepared composite membrane improved greatly, and the surface charge distribution changed. Due to the special charge distribution, the dielectric repulsion in the mass transfer process of the nanofiltration membrane was enhanced. Compared with the traditional commercial method, the rejection of different salt ions in the mixed solution system (Na₂SO₄-NaCl, CaCl₂-NaCl) increased by 50%~100%, and the permeation flux exceeded the commercial membrane by 2~10 times, reaching 50.76 L m⁻²h⁻¹. Through model fitting, the important role of dielectric effect in the mass transfer process was verified, and the difference in the mass transfer results between single/mixed solutions was explained. In addition, the composite membrane maintained good anti-fouling performance in bovine serum albumin and humic acid solutions. The research results provide research ideas and directions for seawater desalination pretreatment.