Skin cancer is a growing global concern, strongly linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, which is intensified by ozone depletion and lifestyle factors. Although synthetic sunscreens are widely used, many active ingredients raise serious environmental issues, including marine toxicity, bioaccumulation, and ecosystem disruption. This study investigates the use of polyphenol-rich plant extracts as sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives for skin photoprotection. Extracts from Cytisus triflorus L'Her, Cistus creticus L., and Ephedra alata subsp. alenda (Stapf) Trab., previously optimized through green extraction techniques, were evaluated for their sun protection factor (SPF), photostability under UV exposure, and anti-inflammatory properties. Both in vitro and in vivo analyses demonstrated that the extracts provided high SPF values (up to 30), retained stability after prolonged UV irradiation, and significantly reduced inflammatory responses. Compared to commercial sunscreens, these plant-based formulations offered comparable protective efficacy without the environmental burden of synthetic compounds. The study highlights the potential of renewable botanical resources as effective and sustainable alternatives in skincare, aligning with green chemistry principles and supporting environmentally responsible approaches to skin cancer prevention.
{"title":"Plant-based photoprotection: Sustainable strategies for skin cancer prevention through UV shielding and anti-inflammatory action","authors":"Yousra Touami , Rafik Marir , Antonin Fattori , Philippe Lavalle","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102250","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102250","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Skin cancer is a growing global concern, strongly linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, which is intensified by ozone depletion and lifestyle factors. Although synthetic sunscreens are widely used, many active ingredients raise serious environmental issues, including marine toxicity, bioaccumulation, and ecosystem disruption. This study investigates the use of polyphenol-rich plant extracts as sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives for skin photoprotection. Extracts from <em>Cytisus triflorus</em> L'Her, <em>Cistus creticus</em> L., and <em>Ephedra alata</em> subsp. <em>alenda</em> (Stapf) Trab., previously optimized through green extraction techniques, were evaluated for their sun protection factor (SPF), photostability under UV exposure, and anti-inflammatory properties. Both <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> analyses demonstrated that the extracts provided high SPF values (up to 30), retained stability after prolonged UV irradiation, and significantly reduced inflammatory responses. Compared to commercial sunscreens, these plant-based formulations offered comparable protective efficacy without the environmental burden of synthetic compounds. The study highlights the potential of renewable botanical resources as effective and sustainable alternatives in skincare, aligning with green chemistry principles and supporting environmentally responsible approaches to skin cancer prevention.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102250"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145416301","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-26DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102244
Nóra Emilia Nagybákay , Michail Syrpas , Andrius Jaskūnas , Aušra Šipailienė , Petras Rimantas Venskutonis , Vaida Kitrytė-Syrpa
This study proposes valorization strategy of CO2-delipidated hop residues using pressurized ethanol extraction (PLE-EtOH), targeting to obtain products with high xanthohumol (XN) concentration, also potent in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The PLE-EtOH was optimized by coupling central composite design and response surface methodology (CCD-RSM) with Aspen Plus® simulation, providing an integrated approach of experimental design and physical process modeling for scalable biorefinery applications. The effects of PLE-EtOH temperature and extraction time on extraction yield, XN concentration and antioxidant responses were evaluated, identifying two optimal conditions: (1) 40 °C/15 min for XN-rich extracts (83.5 mg/g XN); and (2) 85 °C/18 min for maximum antioxidant recovery, yielding ∼2-fold higher extract quantity, total phenolic content (TPC) and enhanced oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The XN-rich fraction exhibited strong ORAC activity (2624 mg TE/g extract) and significant inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus. The validated Aspen Plus® model closely aligned with CCD-RSM predictions, confirming process scalability and energetic feasibility under both optimal conditions. The recovery of diverse high-value bioactive fractions from hop processing by-products as a single feedstock aligns with sustainable extraction, green chemistry, and circular bioeconomy principles, offering promising applications in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
{"title":"CCD-RSM optimization and Aspen Plus® simulation of pressurized ethanol extraction for sustainable xanthohumol and antioxidant-rich fraction recovery from delipidated hop residues","authors":"Nóra Emilia Nagybákay , Michail Syrpas , Andrius Jaskūnas , Aušra Šipailienė , Petras Rimantas Venskutonis , Vaida Kitrytė-Syrpa","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102244","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102244","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study proposes valorization strategy of CO<sub>2</sub>-delipidated hop residues using pressurized ethanol extraction (PLE-EtOH), targeting to obtain products with high xanthohumol (XN) concentration, also potent <em>in vitro</em> antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The PLE-EtOH was optimized by coupling central composite design and response surface methodology (CCD-RSM) with Aspen Plus® simulation, providing an integrated approach of experimental design and physical process modeling for scalable biorefinery applications. The effects of PLE-EtOH temperature and extraction time on extraction yield, XN concentration and antioxidant responses were evaluated, identifying two optimal conditions: (1) 40 °C/15 min for XN-rich extracts (83.5 mg/g XN); and (2) 85 °C/18 min for maximum antioxidant recovery, yielding ∼2-fold higher extract quantity, total phenolic content (TPC) and enhanced oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The XN-rich fraction exhibited strong ORAC activity (2624 mg TE/g extract) and significant inhibition of <em>Staphylococcus aureus</em>. The validated Aspen Plus® model closely aligned with CCD-RSM predictions, confirming process scalability and energetic feasibility under both optimal conditions. The recovery of diverse high-value bioactive fractions from hop processing by-products as a single feedstock aligns with sustainable extraction, green chemistry, and circular bioeconomy principles, offering promising applications in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102244"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145416414","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-25DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102248
Ting Zhang , Danni Ma , Jiaxing Gong , Bolun Sun , Fuman Cai
Rare earth elements are essential components in renewable energy technologies and advanced functional materials. Despite their critical importance, they are typically present in low concentrations and are in increasingly high demand. Current mining and refining processes are energy intensive and cause significant environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need for eco-friendly, rapid, and effective analytical methods for their exploration. Traditional detection techniques are often costly, time-consuming, and non-portable. There remains a critical gap in the availability of rapid, sensitive, and economical sensors for rare earth element detection. In this study, we introduce a novel portable electrochemical detection system. This system utilizes a recombinant plasmid constructed using a codon-optimized gene to heterologously express a high-affinity protein that binds rare-earth ions. It integrates a graphene oxide-coated screen-printed electrode with an electrochemical workstation for the detection of rare-earth ions. Given that Yb has widespread applications among rare-earth elements, we selected Yb3+ for detection to validate the sensor's performance. The developed electrochemical biosensor exhibits a detection limit of 1.617 μM and demonstrates linear response across a concentration range of 10–90 μM (R2 = 0.98). This rare-earth ion electrochemical sensor offers multiple advantages, including high sensitivity, a broad detection range, low cost, ease of use, portability, and potential for field deployment. The materials employed are environmentally friendly, aligning with green production requirements. The proposed method holds promise for practical applications in rare earth mineral exploration.
{"title":"A novel low-cost and sensitive electrochemical biosensor based on Yb-protein/GO/SPE for rare earth element detection","authors":"Ting Zhang , Danni Ma , Jiaxing Gong , Bolun Sun , Fuman Cai","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102248","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102248","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Rare earth elements are essential components in renewable energy technologies and advanced functional materials. Despite their critical importance, they are typically present in low concentrations and are in increasingly high demand. Current mining and refining processes are energy intensive and cause significant environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need for eco-friendly, rapid, and effective analytical methods for their exploration. Traditional detection techniques are often costly, time-consuming, and non-portable. There remains a critical gap in the availability of rapid, sensitive, and economical sensors for rare earth element detection. In this study, we introduce a novel portable electrochemical detection system. This system utilizes a recombinant plasmid constructed using a codon-optimized gene to heterologously express a high-affinity protein that binds rare-earth ions. It integrates a graphene oxide-coated screen-printed electrode with an electrochemical workstation for the detection of rare-earth ions. Given that Yb has widespread applications among rare-earth elements, we selected Yb<sup>3+</sup> for detection to validate the sensor's performance. The developed electrochemical biosensor exhibits a detection limit of 1.617 μM and demonstrates linear response across a concentration range of 10–90 μM (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.98). This rare-earth ion electrochemical sensor offers multiple advantages, including high sensitivity, a broad detection range, low cost, ease of use, portability, and potential for field deployment. The materials employed are environmentally friendly, aligning with green production requirements. The proposed method holds promise for practical applications in rare earth mineral exploration.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102248"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362771","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-25DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102245
Berk Demir , Oğuzhan Yavuz Bayraktar , Ahmet Benli , İhsan Türkel , Halil Oğuzhan Kara , Gökhan Kaplan
Concrete sludge waste (CS), a by-product of concrete production, poses serious environmental challenges due to its disposal. This study aims to evaluate the potential of unground (UCS) and ground (GCS) CS as partial replacements for ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GBFS) in one-part alkali-activated composites (AACs), thereby advancing sustainable binder systems and reducing reliance on virgin raw materials. The experimental program included flowability, compressive and flexural strength, density, porosity, water absorption, sorptivity, and durability assessments under sulfate attack, freeze–thaw cycling, acid exposure, and elevated temperatures. UCS and GCS replaced GBFS at 5–30 % by weight, activated with sodium metasilicate. Microstructural analysis (SEM, XRD) was conducted to link performance outcomes with matrix development and reaction products. The results showed that UCS reduced flowability significantly (up to −38.5 % at 30 %), while GCS caused only minor changes (−4.6 % at 30 %). At 90 days, UCS at 5–10 % improved compressive strength by 15.5 % and 9.0 %, whereas higher UCS levels caused reductions. All GCS mixtures outperformed the reference, achieving up to 26.2 % strength gains and 46.8 % flexural improvement. Optimal GCS incorporation also enhanced resistance to sulfate, acid, freeze–thaw, and high-temperature exposures, while excessive UCS replacement reduced performance. Microstructural observations confirmed denser matrices with reduced porosity in GCS mixtures, while greenness assessment showed that 10–20 % GCS substitution achieves ∼3–4 % embodied CO2 savings together with up to 26 % strength gains, thereby combining performance enhancement with sustainability benefits.
{"title":"Recycling concrete sludge waste as a supplementary binder in one-part alkali-activated composites: A comprehensive performance evaluation","authors":"Berk Demir , Oğuzhan Yavuz Bayraktar , Ahmet Benli , İhsan Türkel , Halil Oğuzhan Kara , Gökhan Kaplan","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102245","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102245","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Concrete sludge waste (CS), a by-product of concrete production, poses serious environmental challenges due to its disposal. This study aims to evaluate the potential of unground (UCS) and ground (GCS) CS as partial replacements for ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GBFS) in one-part alkali-activated composites (AACs), thereby advancing sustainable binder systems and reducing reliance on virgin raw materials. The experimental program included flowability, compressive and flexural strength, density, porosity, water absorption, sorptivity, and durability assessments under sulfate attack, freeze–thaw cycling, acid exposure, and elevated temperatures. UCS and GCS replaced GBFS at 5–30 % by weight, activated with sodium metasilicate. Microstructural analysis (SEM, XRD) was conducted to link performance outcomes with matrix development and reaction products. The results showed that UCS reduced flowability significantly (up to −38.5 % at 30 %), while GCS caused only minor changes (−4.6 % at 30 %). At 90 days, UCS at 5–10 % improved compressive strength by 15.5 % and 9.0 %, whereas higher UCS levels caused reductions. All GCS mixtures outperformed the reference, achieving up to 26.2 % strength gains and 46.8 % flexural improvement. Optimal GCS incorporation also enhanced resistance to sulfate, acid, freeze–thaw, and high-temperature exposures, while excessive UCS replacement reduced performance. Microstructural observations confirmed denser matrices with reduced porosity in GCS mixtures, while greenness assessment showed that 10–20 % GCS substitution achieves ∼3–4 % embodied CO<sub>2</sub> savings together with up to 26 % strength gains, thereby combining performance enhancement with sustainability benefits.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102245"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362767","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-25DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102234
Sixing Ning , Fei He , Guangzhen Ren , Xiaoshuo Zhu , Mingwei Li , Dapeng Fan
In order to address the challenges of modifier penetration waste and pore blockage in the surface modification of porous biomass materials, this study proposes a solvent-free modification strategy based on solid-media surface force field regulation, otherwise known as the media-ball method. The directional spreading of liquid modifiers (Isopropyl tri(dioctyl pyrophosphate) titanate and Dodecyltrimethoxysilane) into micron-scale liquid films (thickness: 2–20 μm) is facilitated by the mechanical shearing forces and surface energy gradient of high-surface-energy media balls (stainless steel: 45.2 mJ/m2, zirconia: 35.0 mJ/m2), These modifiers preferentially react with hydroxyl groups on the biomass outer surface. This approach has been shown to enhance surface reactivity in a synergistic manner, while preserving the porous structure. The experimental findings demonstrate that the modifier utilisation efficiency of the media-ball method is 3.8–7.4 times higher than that of traditional liquid-phase methods (XPS analysis reveals increased P content from 0.36 % to 2.22 %), with intact pore structure retention. The optimization of media-ball material (stainless steel) and size (2.0 mm) has been demonstrated to yield a 92.9 % success rate, concurrently reducing biomass powder adhesion to 1.0 %. The technology, operates through a "surface force field-mechanical synergy" mechanism, enabling efficient biomass surface functionalisation. This offers a green solution for developing environmental remediation materials and bio-based composites.
{"title":"Solid-mediated surface modification of biomass powders: A solvent-free strategy for green functionalisation of porous materials","authors":"Sixing Ning , Fei He , Guangzhen Ren , Xiaoshuo Zhu , Mingwei Li , Dapeng Fan","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102234","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102234","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In order to address the challenges of modifier penetration waste and pore blockage in the surface modification of porous biomass materials, this study proposes a solvent-free modification strategy based on solid-media surface force field regulation, otherwise known as the media-ball method<strong>.</strong> The directional spreading of liquid modifiers (Isopropyl tri(dioctyl pyrophosphate) titanate and Dodecyltrimethoxysilane) into micron-scale liquid films (thickness: 2–20 μm) is facilitated by the mechanical shearing forces and surface energy gradient of high-surface-energy media balls (stainless steel: 45.2 mJ/m<sup>2</sup>, zirconia: 35.0 mJ/m<sup>2</sup>), These modifiers preferentially react with hydroxyl groups on the biomass outer surface. This approach has been shown to enhance surface reactivity in a synergistic manner, while preserving the porous structure. The experimental findings demonstrate that the modifier utilisation efficiency of the media-ball method is 3.8–7.4 times higher than that of traditional liquid-phase methods (XPS analysis reveals increased P content from 0.36 % to 2.22 %), with intact pore structure retention. The optimization of media-ball material (stainless steel) and size (2.0 mm) has been demonstrated to yield a 92.9 % success rate, concurrently reducing biomass powder adhesion to 1.0 %. The technology, operates through a \"surface force field-mechanical synergy\" mechanism, enabling efficient biomass surface functionalisation. This offers a green solution for developing environmental remediation materials and bio-based composites.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102234"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362772","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-24DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102243
Musa Adamu , Wafa Abdelmajeed Labib , Sadi Ibrahim Haruna , Yasser E. Ibrahim , Hani Alanazi
As the most widely used construction material globally, concrete faces increasing demand for amended mechanical, durability and sustainability performance. Fiber reinforcing has become a viable approach to overcome concrete's inherent drawbacks such as brittleness and low tensile strength. In this study, the effects of incorporating hybrid polypropylene fiber (PPF) and date palm fiber (DPF) on concrete's fresh and hardened properties were investigated. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) served as the tool to formulate an experimental program, allowing for a systematic examination of the effects of fiber doses on the fresh and hardened properties of the concrete. Results revealed that while DPF enhanced specific mechanical properties due to its high aspect ratio and fibrous structure, it reduced workability and density because of its affinity for moisture and poor bonding with the cement matrix. Conversely, PPF improved ductility and reduced water absorption but had minimal impact on compressive strength. Hybridization of DPF and PPF offered a balanced approach to achieving optimal mechanical performance and durability, though careful dosage optimization was required to mitigate adverse interactions. Mathematical models developed through RSM demonstrated high accuracy in predicting concrete behavior, validated by experimental results with average errors below 6 %. Multi-objective optimization using desirability functions identified an optimal mix containing 0.7 % PPF and 0 % DPF yielding the best compromise between strength enhancement and reduced water absorption. The optimization result does not negate the role of DPF in strength and durability but reflects the trade-offs in fiber interactions. While DPF enhances mechanical properties, its hydrophilic nature increases water absorption, making PPF alone more effective for the desired balance in this study. This research underscores the potential of hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete systems in sustainable construction, emphasizing the need for scientific design approaches like RSM to optimize performance characteristics effectively.
{"title":"Optimizing the fresh and hardened properties of sustainable hybrid date palm and polypropylene fibers using response surface methodology","authors":"Musa Adamu , Wafa Abdelmajeed Labib , Sadi Ibrahim Haruna , Yasser E. Ibrahim , Hani Alanazi","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102243","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102243","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>As the most widely used construction material globally, concrete faces increasing demand for amended mechanical, durability and sustainability performance. Fiber reinforcing has become a viable approach to overcome concrete's inherent drawbacks such as brittleness and low tensile strength. In this study, the effects of incorporating hybrid polypropylene fiber (PPF) and date palm fiber (DPF) on concrete's fresh and hardened properties were investigated. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) served as the tool to formulate an experimental program, allowing for a systematic examination of the effects of fiber doses on the fresh and hardened properties of the concrete. Results revealed that while DPF enhanced specific mechanical properties due to its high aspect ratio and fibrous structure, it reduced workability and density because of its affinity for moisture and poor bonding with the cement matrix. Conversely, PPF improved ductility and reduced water absorption but had minimal impact on compressive strength. Hybridization of DPF and PPF offered a balanced approach to achieving optimal mechanical performance and durability, though careful dosage optimization was required to mitigate adverse interactions. Mathematical models developed through RSM demonstrated high accuracy in predicting concrete behavior, validated by experimental results with average errors below 6 %. Multi-objective optimization using desirability functions identified an optimal mix containing 0.7 % PPF and 0 % DPF yielding the best compromise between strength enhancement and reduced water absorption. The optimization result does not negate the role of DPF in strength and durability but reflects the trade-offs in fiber interactions. While DPF enhances mechanical properties, its hydrophilic nature increases water absorption, making PPF alone more effective for the desired balance in this study. This research underscores the potential of hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete systems in sustainable construction, emphasizing the need for scientific design approaches like RSM to optimize performance characteristics effectively.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102243"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362768","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-22DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102238
Alessandro Maselli , Gabriele Rossini , Guller Bekiyeva , Shuang Chen , Jie Zhang , Cevher Altuğ , Luigi Vaccaro
This study presents a sustainable strategy for the synthesis of benzofurans, starting from simple, unprotected phenols via Pd-catalyzed C–H functionalization. The developed methodology addresses key environmental challenges commonly associated with such transformations, including the use of toxic solvents, homogeneous catalysts, and stoichiometric amounts of inorganic oxidants. By employing γ-valerolactone (GVL), a bio-based solvent, in combination with a heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst and molecular oxygen at atmospheric pressure as the terminal oxidant, we offer a significantly greener alternative. The sustainability of this protocol was compared with existing C–H functionalization methods using the CHEM21 green metrics toolkit and E-factor analysis. Mechanistic insights supported by DFT calculations highlight the key role of cyclization and reductive elimination steps in the catalytic cycle. The newly defined protocol established a marked improvement in environmental performance, aligning well with the principles of green chemistry by promoting the use of renewable resources and reducing environmental impact in the synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant heterocycles.
{"title":"Exploiting heterogeneous Pd/C for accessing benzofuran in biomass-derived γ-valerolactone","authors":"Alessandro Maselli , Gabriele Rossini , Guller Bekiyeva , Shuang Chen , Jie Zhang , Cevher Altuğ , Luigi Vaccaro","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102238","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102238","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study presents a sustainable strategy for the synthesis of benzofurans, starting from simple, unprotected phenols <em>via</em> Pd-catalyzed C–H functionalization. The developed methodology addresses key environmental challenges commonly associated with such transformations, including the use of toxic solvents, homogeneous catalysts, and stoichiometric amounts of inorganic oxidants. By employing <em>γ-valerolactone</em> (GVL), a bio-based solvent, in combination with a heterogeneous Pd/C catalyst and molecular oxygen at atmospheric pressure as the terminal oxidant, we offer a significantly greener alternative. The sustainability of this protocol was compared with existing C–H functionalization methods using the CHEM21 green metrics toolkit and E-factor analysis. Mechanistic insights supported by DFT calculations highlight the key role of cyclization and reductive elimination steps in the catalytic cycle. The newly defined protocol established a marked improvement in environmental performance, aligning well with the principles of green chemistry by promoting the use of renewable resources and reducing environmental impact in the synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant heterocycles.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102238"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362770","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sewage sludge pyrolysis provides a sustainable way to turn waste into valuable products, mitigating environmental issues linked to traditional disposal. This research combines Aspen Plus® process simulation, experimental validation, and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modeling to improve key pyrolysis parameters for better biochar yield and quality. The simulation used feedstock analysis through proximate and ultimate tests, modelled with the Peng–Robinson–Boston–Mathias (PR-BM) equation of state within temperature ranges of 350–650 °C, heating rates of 5–10 °C min−1, and residence times of 30–60 min. Experimental and simulation results were in close agreement, showing that increasing temperature reduced biochar yield while enhancing non-condensable gas production through intensified devolatilization and secondary cracking. Bio-oil yield peaked at 500 °C, whereas higher temperatures improved biochar fixed carbon content and thermal stability. The ANN model with three input variables and ten hidden neurons achieved predictive accuracy, and temperature was identified as the dominant factor. Profiler-based optimization indicated that optimal biochar and quality occur at 450–500 °C, 5–7.5 °C min−1, and 45–60 min. A techno-economic analysis confirmed 500 °C to be the most cost-effective condition, with a payback period of 4.4 years and an estimated net annual profit of USD 500,000. These results demonstrate the potential of AI-assisted pyrolysis modeling for scalable, resource-efficient sewage sludge treatment within a circular bioeconomy.
污泥热解提供了一种可持续的方式,将废物转化为有价值的产品,减轻了与传统处理相关的环境问题。本研究结合Aspen Plus®过程模拟、实验验证和人工神经网络(ANN)建模来改进关键热解参数,以提高生物炭的产量和质量。在温度范围为350-650°C,加热速率为5-10°C min - 1,停留时间为30-60分钟的条件下,采用Peng-Robinson-Boston-Mathias (PR-BM)状态方程对原料进行了近似和终极测试分析。实验结果与模拟结果一致,表明温度升高降低了生物炭的产率,但通过加速脱挥发和二次裂解提高了不凝气的产率。生物油产率在500°C时达到峰值,而更高的温度提高了生物炭的固定碳含量和热稳定性。采用3个输入变量和10个隐藏神经元的人工神经网络模型实现了预测精度,并将温度确定为主导因素。基于profiler的优化表明,在450-500°C、5-7.5°C min - 1和45-60 min时,生物炭和质量最佳。技术经济分析证实,500°C是最具成本效益的条件,投资回收期为4.4年,预计年净利润为50万美元。这些结果证明了人工智能辅助热解建模在循环生物经济中可扩展、资源高效的污水污泥处理方面的潜力。
{"title":"Sewage sludge pyrolysis: Aspen plus simulation and AI-assisted optimization for biochar yield and properties","authors":"Prabakar Ponnusamy, Muruganandam Loganathan, Sivagami Krishnasamy","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102241","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102241","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sewage sludge pyrolysis provides a sustainable way to turn waste into valuable products, mitigating environmental issues linked to traditional disposal. This research combines Aspen Plus® process simulation, experimental validation, and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modeling to improve key pyrolysis parameters for better biochar yield and quality. The simulation used feedstock analysis through proximate and ultimate tests, modelled with the Peng–Robinson–Boston–Mathias (PR-BM) equation of state within temperature ranges of 350–650 °C, heating rates of 5–10 °C min<sup>−1</sup>, and residence times of 30–60 min. Experimental and simulation results were in close agreement, showing that increasing temperature reduced biochar yield while enhancing non-condensable gas production through intensified devolatilization and secondary cracking. Bio-oil yield peaked at 500 °C, whereas higher temperatures improved biochar fixed carbon content and thermal stability. The ANN model with three input variables and ten hidden neurons achieved predictive accuracy, and temperature was identified as the dominant factor. Profiler-based optimization indicated that optimal biochar and quality occur at 450–500 °C, 5–7.5 °C min<sup>−1</sup>, and 45–60 min. A techno-economic analysis confirmed 500 °C to be the most cost-effective condition, with a payback period of 4.4 years and an estimated net annual profit of USD 500,000. These results demonstrate the potential of AI-assisted pyrolysis modeling for scalable, resource-efficient sewage sludge treatment within a circular bioeconomy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102241"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362769","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-18DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102242
Peña-Velasco Gabriela
In recent years, green analytical chemistry has gained significant importance in the scientific community and socioeconomic development. Various metric tools have been developed to evaluate the greenness of analytical methods. However, despite scientific progress, the knowledge gap regarding the green determination of complex emerging contaminants remains unresolved. In this present review, a comparative greenness and whiteness assessment of methodologies for the determination of high-polar pesticides such as glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) was conducted. The Analytical GREEness Calculator (AGREE) and RGB 12 algorithm were used as metrics of greenness and whiteness, respectively. From the green metric used, scores between 0.14 and 0.50 were obtained for the selected methodologies. Regarding the whiteness metric, the analyzed methodologies showed values from 69.8 % to 93.2 %. Advantages and opportunity areas were described thanks to the metric tools employed. The obtained findings suggest that the analytical procedures implemented over the last decade have advanced in the green determination of the selected analytes. Furthermore, there is limited research on the green and white assessment methods used to determine glyphosate and AMPA. To delve deeper into this type of study, which employs metrics to demonstrate improvements over conventional analytical methodologies, could significantly enhance awareness of sustainable chemistry research.
{"title":"Environmental impact of trends in glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid residue analysis: A comparative evaluation of greenness and whiteness","authors":"Peña-Velasco Gabriela","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102242","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102242","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In recent years, green analytical chemistry has gained significant importance in the scientific community and socioeconomic development. Various metric tools have been developed to evaluate the greenness of analytical methods. However, despite scientific progress, the knowledge gap regarding the green determination of complex emerging contaminants remains unresolved. In this present review, a comparative greenness and whiteness assessment of methodologies for the determination of high-polar pesticides such as glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) was conducted. The Analytical GREEness Calculator (AGREE) and RGB 12 algorithm were used as metrics of greenness and whiteness, respectively. From the green metric used, scores between 0.14 and 0.50 were obtained for the selected methodologies. Regarding the whiteness metric, the analyzed methodologies showed values from 69.8 % to 93.2 %. Advantages and opportunity areas were described thanks to the metric tools employed. The obtained findings suggest that the analytical procedures implemented over the last decade have advanced in the green determination of the selected analytes. Furthermore, there is limited research on the green and white assessment methods used to determine glyphosate and AMPA. To delve deeper into this type of study, which employs metrics to demonstrate improvements over conventional analytical methodologies, could significantly enhance awareness of sustainable chemistry research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102242"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145324415","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2025.102226
Shafeeque Ahmed, Abdulhalim Shah Maulud, Muhammad Nawaz, Mohamad Azmi Bustam
Ion adsorption clay (IAC) is a major source of rare earth elements (REEs). However, the leaching process of REEs using ammonium sulfate as a leaching agent faces various challenges, including, environmental pollution, co-leaching of impurities, and low permeability through the clay. Therefore, this review explores the development of sustainable, selective, and efficient leaching agents for REEs leaching from IAC. The review covers, leaching mechanisms using inorganic and organic salts to leach REEs from all phases with various phenomena such as ion exchange, complexation, and reduction. Consequently, the leaching agents, aids, and technologies on an industrial as well as laboratory scale have been discussed. From extensive literature, it has been revealed that the use of alternative leaching agents such as bioleaching agents, organic acids, and biodegradable surfactants can reduce environmental impacts and improve the selectivity and leaching efficiency of REEs. The integration of permeability enhancers, including cationic polysaccharides, is crucial for overcoming low permeability and swelling in IAC. This review highlights the importance of the advancement of leaching agents to achieve more sustainable and efficient leaching of REEs.
{"title":"Development of leaching agents and mechanisms for rare earth element leaching from ion adsorption clay","authors":"Shafeeque Ahmed, Abdulhalim Shah Maulud, Muhammad Nawaz, Mohamad Azmi Bustam","doi":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102226","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.scp.2025.102226","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Ion adsorption clay (IAC) is a major source of rare earth elements (REEs). However, the leaching process of REEs using ammonium sulfate as a leaching agent faces various challenges, including, environmental pollution, co-leaching of impurities, and low permeability through the clay. Therefore, this review explores the development of sustainable, selective, and efficient leaching agents for REEs leaching from IAC. The review covers, leaching mechanisms using inorganic and organic salts to leach REEs from all phases with various phenomena such as ion exchange, complexation, and reduction. Consequently, the leaching agents, aids, and technologies on an industrial as well as laboratory scale have been discussed. From extensive literature, it has been revealed that the use of alternative leaching agents such as bioleaching agents, organic acids, and biodegradable surfactants can reduce environmental impacts and improve the selectivity and leaching efficiency of REEs. The integration of permeability enhancers, including cationic polysaccharides, is crucial for overcoming low permeability and swelling in IAC. This review highlights the importance of the advancement of leaching agents to achieve more sustainable and efficient leaching of REEs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":22138,"journal":{"name":"Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy","volume":"48 ","pages":"Article 102226"},"PeriodicalIF":5.8,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145323917","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}