https://www.scientific.net/AMR Latest Results for Advanced Materials Research en-us https://www.scientific.net https://www.scientific.net/Image/JournalCover/6 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.-1 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br /> <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.3 10.4028/p-v7ADD6 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Nilesh R. Kumbhar, Mahantayya K. Mathapati, Sunil J. Raykar, Tanish A. Barad <br />Additive Manufacturing (AM) is growing much faster because of its capability to produce complex geometries accurately without material wastage, using a CAD 3D model. It has immense scope in sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, filtration, mechanical, and electrical industries. Out of the many AM technologies available, Stereolithography (SLA) is one process that can build prototypes and end-use products using resins. SLA is particularly known for producing smooth surfaces with tight dimensional tolerances. Several SLA process parameters play a crucial role in producing dimensionally accurate parts. This study focuses on the impact of layer thickness, exposure time, print orientation, and curing time on the dimensional accuracy of SLA-printed parts. A Taguchi-based array was used to design and conduct the experimental work, and the analysis was carried out using Analysis of Means (AOM) plots and regression equations. The optimal settings improved precision, with a 0° orientation yielding the best results for the inside diameter, and 45° and 90° orientations performing best for outside dimensions. Proper curing time was also found to prevent dimensional errors. A validated prediction model showed minimal errors, thereby enhancing the accuracy of SLA-printed parts. These findings show that by optimizing layer thickness, exposure time, print orientation, and curing time, SLA printing can consistently achieve high dimensional accuracy. Such improvements make SLA more viable for industrial applications requiring precision, such as aerospace components, custom medical devices, and high-performance mechanical parts <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.17 10.4028/p-a6zT0w Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Sanraj S. Bagadi, Sunil J. Raykar, Pankaj B. Nandgave, Rahul R. Patil, Tanish A. Barad <br />Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is used primarily to fabricate parts with complex geometries, but dimensional inaccuracies can often result in inefficiencies and limits to its use in high-precision applications. This problem increases in metal–polymer composites, such as this PLA–copper study, because of the combination due to the incorrect dimensional reactions of the heterogeneous materials. Thus, enhancing dimensional accuracy is critical in this application, not only to disprove the need for post-processing but also to support industrial applications. This investigation evaluates the impact of layer thickness, print speed, infill density, and wall thickness on the dimensional accuracy of PLA–copper parts. The experimental design using Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array created 9 unique parts to evaluate and measure deviations in geometrical properties. Analysis of the results indicated that wall thickness exhibited the greatest influence on length accuracy, while layer thickness predominated breadth accuracy. For square side length and diameter accuracy, layer thickness and infill density appeared to have the most influence, respectively. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.33 10.4028/p-9YwKBM Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Collins Madojemu, Sani Sambo Datsugwai Mohammed, Gloria Ginikanwa Ezeagu, Abdullahi Hassan Ndanusa <br />Underutilized legumes velvet beans (Mucuna pruriens) and lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) were assessed for nutritional composition and the effects of traditional processing treatments involving 24-hour soaking and 60-minute cooking, using proximate analysis and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Raw velvet beans contained significantly higher crude protein than lima beans, comparable to cowpeas. Processing reduced protein content from 9-29 % across legumes but led to increases in carbohydrate concentration. The analysis through GC-MS showed that L-DOPA (in velvet beans) neurotoxin decreased by 66.42% and the complete elimination of juglone, a protease inhibitor in lima beans. Although conventional processing methods worked well to lower anti-nutritional factors, they also lowered protein retention, showing an important tradeoff between detoxification and nutrient retention. This study highlights the value of using underutilized legumes like velvet beans which have a protein content similar to cowpeas, to diversify sources of protein in areas of food insecurity. By advocating for optimized processing strategies that prioritize both safety and nutritional quality, these findings contribute to sustainable dietary solutions aligned with global goals to combat malnutrition and promote resilient food systems. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.49 10.4028/p-Pvw6F1 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Aisha Ibrahim Umar, Sani Sambo Datsugwai Mohammed, Mansur Abdulrasheed, Hafsat Abdul Nura <br />Rice (Oryza sativa) is the most important source of food which provide diet to more than 50% of Nigerias population. A principal objective in modern agriculture is to enhance productivity while adhering to ecological principles, creating a demand for sustainable pest management strategies like biocontrol agents (BCAs). The fungus Trichoderma, a prominent BCA, employs a multi-enzymatic system to exert its biocontrol effects. Its efficacy is largely attributed to enzymes that degrade pathogen cell walls, improve resilience against biotic and abiotic stressors, and support robust hyphal development. Trichoderma viride was isolated and identified using morphological and molecular techniques, with ITS sequencing and subsequent BLAST analysis on the NCBI database. The experiment consists of four treatments (FAR044; treated with Trichoderma viride and control; SIPPIRICE; treated with Trichoderma viride) laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD). The result demonstrated statistically significant enhancements in plant growth parameters due to Trichoderma viride treatment, with P-value of (p = 0.001) for treatment type, (p = 0.001) for time (week), and (p = 0.002) for the treatment-time interaction. By Week 5, Trichoderma viride-treated Far044 plants exhibited a mean height of 10.0 ± 0.8 cm, leaf blade length of 6.0 ± 0.5 cm, and 8.0 ± 0.6 shoots per plant, surpassing untreated controls by 34.5%, 32.1%, and 53.8%, respectively. Cohen's d effect sizes for these parameters were substantial: 1.5 (plant height), 1.4 (leaf size), and 1.7 (shoot number), all indicative of large treatment effects. Sippirice plants displayed analogous trends but with reduced increments: 7.2 cm height gain (vs. 10.0 cm in Far044), 4.3 cm leaf expansion (vs. 6.0 cm), and 6.5 shoots (vs. 8.0), reflecting varietal differences in growth responsiveness. These findings position Trichoderma viride as a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides, particularly for resource-constrained regions like Nigeria and promote the Growth of plant and ultimately increased the grain yield significantly compared to control without any hazardous effect on the environment. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.63 10.4028/p-LX2Uy9 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Kabiru Tope Amusa, Ayodele Abeeb Daniyan, Oludare Johnson Odejobi <br />The corrosion inhibition on mild steel by eco-friendly paint produced from Mangifera indica leaves extract was carried out using the weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization methods. Central Composite Design (CCD) in Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used for the design of experiment for the determination of corrosion inhibition efficiency, corrosion rate, and statistical analysis of the experimental results. Corrosion protection paint was formulated, and its efficacy was tested in a hydrochloric acid medium. The surface morphology of the mild steel sample was studied using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The corrosion inhibition efficiency of the paint for weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization methods is 83.68 and 99.49 %, respectively. The activation energy for corrosion process with coated mild steel is 26.47 J/mol K, which is higher than the value of 16.89 J/mol K obtained for uncoated mild steel, indicating that the adsorption process is physisorption. The enthalpy change is 23.96 kJ/mol. The positive value indicates that heat is absorbed from the environment. The entropy change is-180 J/mol K, implying that the activation energy complex is the rate determining step representing association rather than dissociation. Langmuir adsorption isotherm was found to be the best fit model. It was concluded from the study that the formulated paint has a high potential for commercialisation and industrial applications. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.85 10.4028/p-sL6Pb4 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Ridhwan Haliq, Adhe Tegar Sarnadi, Eriek Wahyu Restu Widodo, Mochammad Karim Al Amin <br />SS316L material exhibits superior corrosion resistance. The two grade compositions, comprising nickel and molybdenum, enable the alloy to resist acids and chlorides without degradation. Due to its exceptional corrosion resistance, both metals are among the few classified as "marine grade stainless steels." Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) is executed to guarantee sufficient corrosion resistance during installation. This study analyzes the outcomes of welding ER316LSi as a filler material with SS316L base metal, focusing on microstructure, EDAX analysis, and corrosion rate. This study did not perform hardness testing. This study will indicate welding variables for future research on specific applications, utilizing various weld blades and current parameters. Corrosion testing, encompassing Tafel and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, indicates that the SS316LSi weld metal will yield a higher degree of ferrite development in the weld region. The welding temperature significantly influences the ferrite structures. The corrosion rates for each electrolyte solution are as follows: for the seawater electrolyte solution, a current of 110A yields a rate of 8.39857 x 10-6 mpy, 120A results in 7.09315 x 10-6 mpy, and 130A produces a rate of 7.85427 x 10-6 mpy. The MgCl2 electrolyte solution exhibits a concentration of 110A = 7.2195 × 10-6 mpy, a current of 120A = 7.2156 × 10-6 mpy, and a current of 130A = 7.1406 × 10-6 mpy. The corrosion resistance at a current of 120 amperes is greater in seawater conditions than at a current of 130 amperes in MgCl2 solutions. The corrosion rate and reductions in Fe, Mo, Cr, and Mn following 14 days of immersion testing in sewage and MgCl2 are the reasons that low-heat-input or solid-phase bonding techniques can significantly enhance pitting resistance compromised by welding. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.97 10.4028/p-8AfYA8 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Humayun Wali, Muhammad Mahmood Ahmad <br />This work relates initially to the application of various chemical formulations on leather surfaces to function as water repellents. Efforts have been made to search for a nonfluorinated formulation because of the damaging health effects of fluorinated water repellents. The metal complex stearato chromic chloride, which was prepared in the laboratory, is the most suitable. A complete synthesis protocol is developed first. Characterization tests (ATR-FTIR, XRD) of the chemical were performed to confirm that the intended product was properly synthesized. Microscopic examination of the leather revealed that it was not damaged by the application of the formulation and retained its softness and ability to feel. The methods of application to leather are then described. Finally, the necessary tests of performance are completed. For the different types of leathers that are evaluated, stearato chromic chloride can be easily applied and used as a compatible, durable and permanent water repellent. When synthesized according to a given protocol, minimal repellent chemicals are present in the exhaust solution, thus safeguarding the environment against chromium toxicity. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.111 10.4028/p-bc0uPZ Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Mohamed Es-Satte, Hamza Faraji, Khadija Choukairy, Mohamed Bourich <br />Li-ion batteries generate significant heat during operation, which leads to an increase in temperature and, consequently, a reduction in the battery's efficiency and lifespan. In this study, different cooling methods are simulated for the thermal management of the battery. The cooling using air and liquids is investigated with laminar flow at varying velocities. Results indicated that the use of water/glycol is more effective than air and mineral oil. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.121 10.4028/p-BD62ux Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Rabi Ahmed, George Mangse, Azeez Olalekan Omotosho, Umar Farouk, Winifred Ofure Brown, Zarah Ismail Musa <br />Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis that undermines the effectiveness of antibiotics in treating infections, posing a threat to humans and animals. Antibiotics are not fully metabolized by humans or animals, leading to their dispersion within sewage streams. The dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in aquatic environments poses a significant public health risk, particularly through the release of treated wastewater into natural water bodies. This study investigated the presence of Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs) in Klebsiella sp. isolates collected from four sampling points along the Wupa River and its wastewater treatment plant (WWTP): Upstream (P1), Influent (P2), Effluent (P3), and Downstream (P4). Physicochemical analyses of water samples showed that most parameters, including temperature, pH, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, and nitrates, stayed within WHO-recommended limits. However, phosphates, total suspended solids, and ammoniacal nitrogen consistently exceeded these limits at all sites. The highest levels of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total COD were found at the influent. The Total Viable Count carried out for bacterial colonies and Klebsiella colonies to assess microbial load showed the highest value at the 10^ (- 2) dilution factor and the lowest at the 10^ (- 5) dilution factor. Isolation and identification of Klebsiella spp. were performed using biochemical tests, including Voges-Proskauer (+), Indole (-), Citrate (+), Urease (+), Methyl red (-), Triple Sugar Agar (+), and Gram staining, revealing Gram-negative rods. Molecular analysis detected amplification of key resistance genes sul2, tetB, blaTEM, and blaCTX. Amplification of tetB gene in both influent and effluent samples indicates incomplete removal of tetracycline resistance genes during wastewater treatment. The blaTEM and blaCTX genes were detected across all sampling points, suggesting widespread environmental dissemination and potential contamination sources beyond the WWTP. These findings highlight the persistence and spread of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella in riverine and wastewater environments, underscoring the critical need for improved wastewater treatment strategies and continuous monitoring to mitigate the public health impact of antibiotic resistance in aquatic ecosystems. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.133 10.4028/p-QN1ICb Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Umar Faruok Ibrahim, Abdullahi Hassan Ndanusa, Mansur Abdulrasheed, Aisha Umar Buba, Khadija Sanusi Adamu, Yakubu Manbe Mohammed <br />The danger to environmental productivity posed by many human activities is making water contamination an essential problem. Assessing oxidative stress biomarkers as markers of environmental contamination in water hyacinth and Nile tilapia from the Wupa River in Abuja that is damaged by effluent is the goal of this study. Samples were gathered and examined according to established protocols. Biomarker result shows hydrogen peroxide activities in the leaves of water Hyacinth (101.76 ±11.70-104.17 ± 17.78 mol/L) stem (81.22 ± 9.86-87.68 ± 10.31 mol/L). Superoxide anion of the leaves (25.33 ± 3.56-28.06 ± 6.09 mol/m3), stem (24.51 ± 2.99 - 26.16 ±1.84 mol/m3). Catalase enzymatic activities (43.57±2.12 - 48.23 ± 19.06), stem (39.73±4.95-47.12 ± 5.00). The Malondialdehyde of the leaves (348.04 ± 220.43-455.08 ± 137.99 g/mol) and the stem (180.08 ± 151.08-252.04 ±147.67 g/mol). In the Fish, Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels were highest in the liver, ranging from 363.62 ± 46.16 mol/L (upstream) to 362.81 ± 225.78 mol/L (downstream), significantly exceeding those in the heart and gills. Superoxide anion concentrations followed a similar pattern, with liver values ranging from 41.03 ± 8.75 mol/m³ (downstream) to 82.61 ± 64.88 mol/m³ (upstream), again surpassing levels in the heart and gills. Catalase activity was relatively stable across tissues, with values in the liver ranging from 33.75 ± 5.49 (upstream) to 38.51 ± 2.04 (downstream). Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, were significantly elevated in the gills, particularly upstream (30.89 ± 10.87 g/mol), when compared to liver and heart values. The Biomarker results demonstrate that water hyacinth and Nile Tilapia can be effectively used to assess the pollution status of the Wupa River, with the biomarkers such hydrogen peroxide, catalase and superoxide anion levels reflecting the organism’s response to environmental stressors. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.145 10.4028/p-J3yzQ9 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Ummulkhairi Nasiru Danmallam, Adekunle Akanni Adeleke, Abdullahi Sulaiman Bah Gimba, Noor Hana Hanif Abu Bakar, Zakariyya Uba Zango, Ahmad Alin Baffa <br />This study utilizes phenanthrene as the model molecule to investigate the optimization and reusability of coal-derived carbon nanoparticles for the adsorption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). After controlled carbonization and activation, the carbon nanoparticles were synthesized using a chemical solid synthesis method and meticulously studied to determine their surface morphology and crystallinity. One factor at a time (OFAT) was used as an optimization method for the batch adsorption studies, the parameters varied including pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, Temperature, and initial phenanthrene concentration. The optimal circumstances for phenanthrene resulted in a high removal efficiency of up to 95.3% for phenanthrene, and 96% removal for naphthalene, hence demonstrating the material's potential for PAH remediation. Subsequent batch testing confirmed the material's efficacy in removing naphthalene and phenanthrene. Furthermore, reusability studies conducted over five adsorption-desorption cycles demonstrated minimal decline in removal efficiency for Naphthalene by 10%, with a difference between the 1st and 5th run. hence showing robust regeneration capability and operational stability. But it shows a high decline in removal efficiency for phenanthrene. The results demonstrate the efficacy and sustainability of coal-derived carbon nanoparticles as a cost-effective adsorbent for applications addressing PAH contamination in water. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.159 10.4028/p-N06BCw Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Uchechukwu Mbonu, Gloria Ginikanwa Ezeagu, George Mangse <br />Nigeria's growing aquaculture sector faces critical water quality challenges that threaten fish health and food safety, yet limited systematic assessment exists for urban fish farming environments. This study comparatively assessed physicochemical, bacteriological, and heavy metal quality of water in three selected fish farms in Abuja, Nigeria. The study was conducted over five weeks (November 2024–January 2025), with water samples collected in triplicates from inlet and outlet points and analyzed using standard APHA methods for physicochemical parameters, culture and molecular techniques for bacterial identification, and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy for heavy metals. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results revealed that all farms exhibited suboptimal water quality with dissolved oxygen levels critically below standards (0.18 ± 0.07 mg/L vs. recommended &gt;5 mg/L), acidic pH (6.4 ± 0.41), and elevated chemical oxygen demand (98.72 ± 19.90 mg/L). Nine bacterial species were identified from thirty isolates, with Escherichia coli being predominant (60%), followed by Staphylococcus sp. and Shigella sp. (10% each), while Campylobacter, Proteus, Enterococcus, Salmonella, Enterobacter, and Bacillus species were each detected at 3.3%. Heavy metal concentrations varied significantly across farms with manganese concentrations ranging from 0.18 ± 0.12 mg/L in Farm A to 0.24 ± 0.25 mg/L in Farm C. Zinc (Zn) levels were highest in Farm V at 0.28 ± 0.21 mg/L and lowest in Farm A at 0.20 ± 0.11 mg/L. Nickel (Ni) concentrations remained relatively consistent across all farms. The study concludes that critical water quality deficiencies across all examined fish farms pose significant risks to fish health and public safety, necessitating urgent implementation of water quality management interventions and strengthened regulatory oversight for sustainable urban aquaculture development. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.179 10.4028/p-E6Zdqf Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Umar Faruok Ibrahim, Aina’u Musa Ajiya, Elikem Carlyle Joffa, Abdullahi Hassan Ndanusa, Yakubu Manbe Mohammed, Azeez Olalekan Omotosho, Kabir Mohammed Adamu <br />Contamination of water by heavy metals is a major environmental problem in modern world as pollutants enter aquatic systems through various means such as effluent discharge, industrial, urban and agricultural run-off. This study is evaluated the bioaccumulation potentials of Eichornia crassipe (Water hyacinth) on some selected heavy metals in effluent impacted Wupa River. The result shows Water Cadmium (0.10 ± 0.01-0.12 ± 0.00 mg/L), Copper (0.01 ± 0.01-0.04 ± 0.02 mg/L), Iron (0.57 ± 0.23-0.83 ± 0.26mg/L), Nickel (0.11± 0.01-0.15±0.10 mg/L), Lead (0.98 ± 0.86-1.04 ± 0.64 mg/L), Zinc (0.02 ± 0.00-0.03 ± 0.00 mg/L). Sediment heavy metal Copper mean (0.13 ± 0.03-0.28 ± 0.06mg/L), Nickel (0.02 ± 0.02-0.18 ± 0.12mg/L), Zinc (0.03 ± 0.04-0.05 ± 0.04mg/L), Cadmium (0.004 ± 0.05-0.01 ± 0.01mg/L), Lead (5.09 ± 5.38-5.69 ± 1.61mg/L), Iron (2.00 ± 1.77 to 5.65 ± 2.03 mg/L). Molecular identification reveals high percentage identities ranging from 88.69% to 98.74% with known chloroplast sequences of E. crassipes. Water hyacinth root had high bioconcentration factor metals such as iron and copper while the leaves had highest BCF in Lead. The heavy metal removal efficiency of iron and copper was significantly low (p&lt;0.05) in the root of water hyacinth when compared to the leave and stem of same plant. While the lead heavy metal removal was significantly (p&lt;0.05) low in the stem when compared to the root and leaves of water hyacinth. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.191 10.4028/p-eyq9TX Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Ngozi Enemuo, Tien Chien Jen, Adedotun Adetunla, Uchenna Godwin Azubuike <br />Membrane-based separation technology has grown significantly due to its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, easy system operations, and scale-up. The versatility of membrane application is also a significant factor in their widespread use in many separation processes. Their applications span water treatment, gas purification, energy production, and biomedicine. While promising, membrane technology still requires improvements in membrane features and performance, such as pore structure, fouling resistance, chemical stability, and concurrent enhancement of permeability and selectivity. Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing membrane properties and performance through surface modification with atomic-scale precision, enabling conformal coatings, functional surface modification, and precise control over pore size. The ability of ALD to deposit uniform and conformal films on membrane substrates makes it a favourable modification technique. This review offers a concise yet informative discussion on the fundamentals of ALD, its integration with membrane modification, recent advancements in ALD-modified membranes, emerging trends in membrane modification via ALD, and challenges of ALD application in membrane modification. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.201 10.4028/p-A7iNwg Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Christopher N. Chukwuati, Tien Chien Jen <br />Carboxylic (COOH) functionalized zinc oxide and iron oxide (COOH-ZnO@Fe3O4) composites were used in this study to modify polyamide thin film composite membranes. The resultant membranes exhibit improved water permeability, greater antifouling qualities, robust stability for repeated usage, and enhanced rejection of Pb2+ metal ions compared to the unmodified membrane. In contrast to the unmodified PA-TFC membrane, which had an 82.36±0.01% Pb2+ removal efficiency, a contact angle of 82.36°±0.01, a flux recovery ratio of 33.6%, and a water permeation flux of 3.3 L·m⁻²·h⁻¹, the membrane containing 1.5% of the COOH-ZnOFe3O4 composite, for instance, achieved a 97.6±0.35% Pb2+ removal efficiency, a lower contact angle of 58°±1.86, a higher flux recovery ratio of 86.3%, and a higher water permeation flux of 10.23 L·m⁻²·h⁻¹. Additionally, by combining ZnO, Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and COOH groups from sodium polyacrylate as additives to the PA layer, the modified membranes demonstrated improved performance relative to the other membranes. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.211 10.4028/p-TypAF8 Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Ali Kamil Kareem, Ikram F. Hadi, I.R. Ali, Mohanad A. Kadhem, Mohammed A. Sahab, Fatima E. Ali, Ali R. Tayeh, Tabarak H. Rahim, Ghaith M. Hussein <br />Environmental worries have increased due to the sharp rise in single-use plastics in healthcare institutions, especially with relation to medical plastic waste. This study explores the viability of using low-cost, small-scale technology to recycle such trash into goods with added value. Samples of medical plastic, such as vials, syringes, and bottles of intravenous solution, were gathered at Al-Shamiya General Hospital, sanitized, and mechanically destroyed. Two processing units were created: a 3D printing filament extruder and a manual injection molding machine. While the injection molding machine generated molded components based on the applied mold design, the extruder successfully produced filaments suitable with fused deposition modeling. The technical feasibility of converting sterilized medical plastics into useful products for everyday use and healthcare was validated by experimental results. The results highlight the potential of decentralized recycling strategies to lessen the environmental impact of medical waste, promote circular economy principles, and decrease plastic pollution, so long as stringent safety and sterilizing measures are followed. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AMR.1189.229 10.4028/p-b3ouKR Publication date: 13 March 2026 <br />Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1189 <br />Author(s): Omar A. Abdulrazzaq, Zina A. Khadim, Salwan Obaid Waheed Khafaji, Ahmed A. Mutlaq, Yasir A. Abbood <br />Iraq faces chronic electricity shortages despite abundant agricultural biomass resources. This study evaluates a small-scale biomass power plant in rural Latifiyah, Iraq as a model for renewable energy integration. Using the NREL System Advisor Model (SAM), we simulate a direct-combustion plant of approximately 14-20 MW capacity fueled by local corn stover residues. The resource assessment confirms ample feedstock availability (on the order of 105 tonnes per year of corn residues), enabling annual electricity generation of roughly 100 GWh. SAM performance results indicate a net conversion efficiency around 25% and a capacity factor of 75%, reflecting continuous year-round operation. However, the economic analysis reveals challenges: the levelized cost of electricity is estimated in the range of $0.10-0.15 per kWh, and the project’s payback period extends to nearly 20 years under current market conditions. These Fig.s exceed typical benchmarks, underscoring the need for financial incentives or policy support. Despite the economic constraints, the biomass plant offers significant environmental benefits, including substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the elimination of open-field residue burning, along with improvements in rural energy access and local development. As a case study, this work shows the potential and challenges of deploying agricultural biomass power in Iraq’s energy transition. <br /> <br /> Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 06:58:23 +0200