Sources and Extraction of Biopolymers and Manufacturing of Bio-Based Nanocomposites for Different Applications.

In the recent era, bio-nanocomposites represent an emerging group of nanostructured hybrid materials and have been included in a new field at the frontier of materials science, life sciences, and nanotechnology. These biohybrid materials reveal developed structural and functional features of great attention for diverse uses. These materials take advantage of the synergistic assembling of biopolymers with nanometer-sized reinforcements. Conversely, polysaccharides have received great attention due to their several biological properties like antimicrobial and antioxidant performance. They mainly originated in different parts of plants, animals, seaweed, and microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, and yeasts). Polysaccharide-based nanocomposites have great features, like developed physical, structural, and functional features; affordability; biodegradability; and biocompatibility. These bio-based nanocomposites have been applied in biomedical, water treatment, food industries, etc. This paper will focus on the very recent trends in bio-nanocomposite based on polysaccharides for diverse applications. Sources and extraction methods of polysaccharides and preparation methods of their nanocomposites will be discussed.

Preparation and optimization of grafted hydroxyethyl cellulose, polypyrrole, and nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots bionanocomposites for electrical, optical, and photoluminescence multicoloring applications.

The major objective of this research revolves around the integration of polypyrrole (PPy) and various concentrations of nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) into a polyacrylamide (PAm)-grafted hydroxyethyl cellulose (gHEC) to produce gHEC@PPy@N-CQDs bionanocomposites that possess environmentally sustainable properties. The intercalation and uniform distribution of N-CQDs inside the gHEC@PPy matrix have been demonstrated through the analysis of data obtained from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The samples underwent analysis using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA and DTG) as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The improved dispersion of PPy and 4 % N-CQDs inside the matrix led to enhanced electrical characteristics of the graphene-hybridized metal bionanocomposite. The peculiar optical and photoluminescence emission observed in the gHEC@PPy@N-CQDs bionanocomposites can be attributed to the surface groups of N-CQDs and the transition between CN and CN. This hypothesis suggests that these factors play a significant role in determining the observed optical properties. The main goal is to identify distinctive and captivating applications for these bionanocomposites across several domains, including electronics, optical and light-emitting devices with a broad spectrum of colors, and bioimaging applications.

Optimizing the Dielectric and Mechanical Performance of 3D-Printed Cellulose-Based Biocomposites and Bionanocomposites through Factorial Design for Electrical Insulation Application.

Materials for low-permittivity and electrical insulation applications need to be re-engineered to achieve sustainable development. To address this challenge, the proposed study focused on the dielectric and mechanical optimization of 3D-printed cellulose-based composites for electrical insulation applications. Two different fillers, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC), were used to create biocomposites and bionanocomposites, respectively, blended into a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix. The effects of infill ratio, printing temperature, and filler content on dielectric and mechanical properties were measured using an incomplete L9 (3^3) factorial design. The findings showed that the infill ratio was the most significant factor influencing the properties tested, directly attributable to the increase in material availability for polarization and mechanical performance. The second most influential factor was the filler content, increasing the polarity of the tested composites and decreasing the toughness of the biocomposites and bionanocomposites. Finally, printing temperature had no significant effect. Results for the biocomposites at a 50% infill ratio, 200 °C printing temperature, and a weight content of MCC of 15% gave a 60% higher tensile-mode stiffness than neat PLA printed under the same conditions, while exhibiting lower dielectric properties than neat PLA printed with a 100% infill ratio. These results pave the way for new lightweight materials for electrical insulation.

Radiochemical neutron activation analysis of elemental contents in crude phosphoric acid samples and studies on adsorption removal of these elements using synthesized bionanocomposites.

Harmful elements in Egyptian phosphoric acid were identified by radiochemical neutron activation analysis. In the Second Egyptian Nuclear Research Reactor, precipitates were created and examined to identify many types of contaminants (Ce, Co, Cr, etc.). New bionanocomposite materials effectively removed with a high proportion each of Ce, Th, Pa, U, Np, Zn, and Co (100%) and a somewhat lower percentage (65-85%) for Cr, Sc, and Fe from simulated solutions, suggesting promise for purifying phosphoric acid.

Fabrication of novel glutathione-Fe3O4-loaded/activated carbon encapsulated sand bionanocomposites for enhanced removal of diethyl phthalate from aqueous environment in a vertical flow reactor.

The extensive use of plasticizers in various industries has made Diethyl phthalate (DEP), a serious threat to the environment and ecological water security, owing to its complex-structure and low-biodegradability. Thus, the present study aimed to design a sustainable sand-coated nano glutathione (GSH) -Fe3O4-loaded/activated carbon (AC) bionanocomposite (AC-GSH-Fe3O4@sand bionanocomposite) for effective removal of DEP from water. Characterization results suggested bionanocomposites' rough and irregular texture due to the uneven distribution of AC and Fe3O4 nanoparticles over the sand. The XRD spectra indicated high crystallinity of bionanocomposites, while the FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of all individual components, i.e., GSH, AC, Fe3O4, and sand. EDX-mapping, AFM, and TGA further verified its elemental composition, topographical changes and thermal stability. The influence of pH (3, 7, 9), bed height (2, 4, 6) cm, and flow rate (2.5, 3.5, 4.5) mL min-1 were studied in a dynamic system with an initial DEP concentration of 50 mg L-1 to investigate the removal behavior of the bionanocomposites. The best DEP removal efficiency (90.18 %) was achieved over 28-h at pH 9, bed-height-4 cm, and flow-rate-3.5 mL min-1, with an optimum qmax-200.25 mg g-1 as determined through Thomas-model. Breakthrough curves were predicted using various column models, and the corresponding parameters essential for column-reactor process design were calculated. The high reusability up to the 10th cycle (≥83.32%) and the effective treatment in complex matrices (tap-water: 90.11 %, river-water: 89.72 %, wastewater: 83.83%) demonstrated bionanocomposites' prominent sustainability. Additionally, the production cost at 6.64 USD per Kg, underscores its potentiality for industrial application. Phytotoxicity assessment on mung-bean revealed better root (5.02 ± 0.27 cm) and shoot (17.64 ± 0.35 cm) growth in the bionanocomposite-treated DEP samples over the untreated samples. Thus, AC-GSH-Fe3O4@sand bionanocomposites could be considered a highly-sustainable, low-cost technique for the effective removal of DEP and other phthalate-esters from contaminated matrices.

Tapioca-starch-based bionanocomposites with fructose and titanium dioxide for food packaging and fertilization applications.

Bionanocomposites offer a promising solution to the plastic waste crisis. Although tapioca starch shows potential as a bioplastic material, it is characterized by low mechanical properties, poor thermal stability, and high water absorption owing to its hydrophilic nature. To increase the flexibility of the material and reduce the transmission rate of oxygen and water vapor, additives such as fructose and titanium dioxide (TiO2) can be incorporated into the material. TiO2 nanoparticles are commonly utilized in agriculture to enhance nutrient release and promote plant growth. In this study, X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that TiO2 reduced crystal size while increasing the crystallinity of bionanocomposites. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed an absorption peak at 3397 cm-1, indicating hydrogen bonding between TiO2 and starch-OH groups, and a peak at 773 cm-1, indicating an increase in the intensity of Ti-O-Ti stretching vibrations with the incorporation of TiO2. Water absorption rate results confirmed that TiO2 addition enhanced bionanocomposite resistance to water vapor and moisture, evidenced by increased tensile strength from 0.11 to 0.49 MPa and Young's modulus from 2.48 to 5.26 MPa, as well as decreased elongation at break from 21.46 % to 2.36 % in bionanocomposites with TiO2. Furthermore, with TiO2 addition, the biodegradation rate of the bionanocomposites decreased, which is beneficial for enhancing plant nutrient content.

Eco-friendly bio-nanocomposites: pioneering sustainable biomedical advancements in engineering.

Biomedical nanocomposites, which are an upcoming breed of mischievous materials, have ushered in a new dimension in the healthcare sector. Incorporating these materials tends to boost features this component already possesses and give might to things these components could not withstand alone. The biopolymer, which carries the nanoparticles, can simultaneously improve the composite's stiffness and biological characteristics, and vice versa. This increases the options of the composite and the number of times it can be used. The bio-nanocomposites and nanoparticles enable the ecocompatibility of the medicine in their biodegradability, and they, in this way, have ecological sustainability. The outcome is the improved properties of medicine and its associated positive impact on the environment. They have broad applications in antimicrobial agents, drug carriers, tissue regeneration, wound care, dentistry, bioimaging, and bone filler, among others. The dissertation on the elements of bio-nanocomposites emphasizes production techniques, their diverse applications in medicine, match-up issues, and future-boasting prospects in the bio-nanocomposites field. Through the utilization of such materials, scientists can develop more suitable for the environment and healthy biomedical solutions, and world healthcare in this way improves as well.

Low toxicity of magnetite-based modified bionanocomposites with potential application for wastewater treatment: Evaluation in a zebrafish animal model.

In recent years, the escalating concerns surrounding environmental pollution and the need for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions have underscored the significance of developing technologies that can efficiently treat wastewater while also reducing negative ecological effects. In this context, our study aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable technologies for wastewater treatment, by investigating the effects that bare magnetite nanoparticles and those functionalized with the enzyme laccase could have in an aquatic animal, zebrafish, at various life cycle stages. Exposure to magnetite nanoparticles shows some effects on embryo hatching, survival rates, or larval behavior at higher concentrations. For both treatments, the hatching percentages were close to 80% compared to 93% for the control group. At the end of the observations in larvae, survival in all the evaluated groups was higher than 90%. Additionally, we evaluated the accumulation of nanoparticles in various stages of zebrafish. We found that, although there was accumulation during embryonic stages, it did not affect normal development or subsequent hatching. Iron levels in different organs such as gills, muscles, gastrointestinal tract, and brain were also evaluated in adults. Animals treated with a mix of food and nanoparticles at 10 µg/mL (Food group) presented a higher concentration of iron accumulation in muscle, gastrointestinal tract, and gills compared to the untreated control group. Although iron levels increased depending on the dose and exposure method applied, they were not statistically significant from the control groups. Our findings suggest that bionanocomposites evaluated here can be considered safe for removal of contaminants in wastewater without toxic effects or detrimental accumulation fish's health.

Valorization of edible films based on chitosan/hydroxyethyl cellulose/olive leaf extract and TiO2-NPs for preserving sour cream.

Biodegradable edible films for sour cream packaging were developed based on chitosan (CS), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), Olive leaf extract (OE), and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs). The prepared CS/HEC/TiO2-OE bionanocomposite films were evaluated for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities as well as using FT-IR, mechanical, permeability, and contact angle. The effect of developed films on the lipid oxidation, microbiological load, and chemical properties of sour cream was investigated. The fabricated films had an antimicrobial impact against all tested strains. The film containing 8 % OE showed effective protection against fat oxidation, with a peroxide value of 3.21 meq O2/kg, a para-anisidine value 5.40, and free fatty acids of 0.82 mg KOH/kg. The films with OE 4 % and 8 % have a good effect on the microbiological load of sour cream for 90 days. These films did not influence the chemical composition of sour cream and therefore can be used in this sort of dairy product.

Advancing Food Preservation: Sustainable Green-AgNPs Bionanocomposites in Paper-Starch Flexible Packaging for Prolonged Shelf Life.

In the pursuit of enhancing food packaging, nanotechnology, particularly green silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs), have gained prominence for its remarkable antimicrobial properties with high potential for food shelf-life extension. Our study aims to develop corn starch-based coating materials reinforced with G-AgNPs. The mechanical properties were examined using a uniaxial tensile tester, revealing that starch coated with the highest G-AgNPs concentration (12.75 ppm) exhibited UTS of 87.6 MPa compared to 48.48 MPa of control paper, a significant (p < 0.02) 65% increase. The assessment of the WVP showcased a statistical reduction in permeability by up to 8% with the incorporation of the hydrophobic layer. Furthermore, antibacterial properties were assessed following ISO 22196:2011, demonstrating a strong and concentration-dependent activity of G-AgNPs against E. coli. All samples successfully disintegrated in both simulated environments (soil and seawater), including samples presenting G-AgNPs. In the food trial analysis, the presence of starch and G-AgNPs significantly reduced weight loss after 6 days, with cherry tomatoes decreasing by 8.59% and green grapes by 6.77% only. The results of this study contribute to the advancement of environmentally friendly packaging materials, aligning with the UN sustainable development goals of reducing food waste and promoting sustainability.

A self-healing crosslinked-xanthan gum/soy protein based film containing halloysite nanotube and propolis with antibacterial and antioxidant activity for wound healing.

Traumatic multidrug-resistant bacterial infections are the most threat to wound healing. Lower extremity wounds under diabetic conditions display a significant delay during the healing process. To overcome these challenges, the utilization of protein-based nanocomposite dressings is crucial in implementing a successful regenerative medicine approach. These dressings hold significant potential as polymer scaffolds, allowing them to mimic the properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM). So, the objective of this study was to develop a nanocomposite film using dialdehyde-xanthan gum/soy protein isolate incorporated with propolis (PP) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) (DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs). In this protein-polysaccharide hybrid system, the self-healing capability was demonstrated through Schiff bonds, providing a favorable environment for cell encapsulation in the field of tissue engineering. To improve the properties of the DXG-SPI film, the incorporation of polyphenols found in PP, particularly flavonoids, is proposed. The synthesized films were subjected to investigations regarding degradation, degree of swelling, and mechanical characteristics. Additionally, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were introduced into the DXG-SPI/PP nanocomposite films as a reinforcing filler with varying concentrations of 3 %, 5 %, and 7 % by weight. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirmed the proper embedding and dispersion of HNTs onto the DXG-SPI/PP nanocomposite films, leading to functional interfacial interactions. The structure and crystallinity of the synthesized nanocomposite films were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Moreover, the developed DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs nanocomposite films significantly improved cell growth of NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells in the presence of PP and HNTs, indicating their cytocompatibility. The antibacterial activity of the nanocomposite was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. Aureus), which are commonly associated with wound infections. Overall, our findings suggest that the synthesis of DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs nanocomposite scaffolds holds great promise as a clinically relevant biomaterial and exhibits strong potential for numerous challenging biomedical applications.

Green synthesis of nanocellulose supported cu-bionanocomposites and their profound applicability in the synthesis of amide derivatives and controlling of food-borne pathogens.

Copper bionanocomposites (CBNCS) were synthesized using Ipomoea carnea- sourced nanocellulose as support via an eco-friendly and cost-effective method. X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) pattern of CBNCS confirmed the octahedral structure of Cu2O, the face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure of Cu(0). XRD also revealed the crystal lattice of cellulose II. Surface Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) revealed the uniform distribution of copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) with an average size of 10 nm due to the presence of nanocellulose. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) provided information about the electronic, chemical state and elemental composition of CBNCS. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) showed the thermal stability of CBNCS. CBNCS catalyzed the rearrangement of oximes to primary amides in a very mild condition with a high yield of up to 92 %. CBNCS effectively inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) with lower minimum inhibitory concentration MIC values. Antioxidant activity and electrical conductivity of CBNCS were also determined.

Bionanocomposite Based on Cassava Waste Starch, Locust Bean Galactomannan, and Cassava Waste Cellulose Nanofibers.

Natural polysaccharides are among the renewable sources with great potential for replacing petroleum-derived chemicals as precursors to produce biodegradable films. This study aimed to prepare biopolymeric films using starch extracted from the periderm and cortex of cassava roots (waste from cassava root processing), locust bean galactomannan, and cellulose nanofibers also obtained from cassava waste. The films were prepared by casting, and their physicochemical, mechanical, and biodegradability properties were evaluated. The content of cellulose nanofibers varied from 0.5 to 2.5%. Although the addition of cellulose nanofibers did not alter the mechanical properties of the films, it significantly enhanced the vapor barrier of the films (0.055 g mm/m2 h kPa-2.5% nanofibers) and their respective stabilities in aqueous acidic and alkaline media. All prepared films were biodegradable, with complete degradation occurring within five days. The prepared films were deemed promising alternatives for minimizing environmental impacts caused by the disposal of petroleum-derived materials.

Starch/carbon nanofibers bionanocomposites via melt mixing: Effect of dispersion and compatibility on conductivity and mechanical properties.

Biodegradable polymers with conductivity and mechanical properties are required in several applications where it is necessary to substitute conductive synthetic plastics due to the high waste produced. In this study, bionanocomposites (BNCs) have been compounded by thermoplastification of rice starch via melt mixing with carbon nanofibers (NPs) and modified NPs (NPs [M]) using plasma of acrylic acid. Spectroscopy analysis, X-ray diffraction, and morphology were studied to elucidate the effect of dispersion and compatibility on the conductivity and mechanical properties. The incorporation of NPs promoted esterification reactions with starch during the melt mixing process, giving rise to changes in its crystal structure. NPs [M] showed better dispersion and compatibility because the plasma prevents reagglomeration and generates a stronger affinity. BNCs showed significative flexibility with remarked % elongation at break from 5.64 % to 248.60 %, and thermal conductivity increased from 0.10 to 0.58 W/m K, with NPs [M] at 5 %. In contrast, the electrical conductivity remained in the same magnitude order (10-4 S/cm). The better compatibility between starch-NPs [M] hinders electronic transport but increases the propagation of phonons to promote thermal conductivity. BNCs fabricated in this study by a dry and scalable process could be of interest in some application areas (intelligent food packing, electronics, textiles, etc.).

New Functional Bionanocomposites by Combining Hybrid Host-Guest Systems with a Fully Biobased Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) Binary Blend.

In this study, we have developed innovative polymer nanocomposites by integrating magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based nanocarriers modified with functional molecules into a fully biobased poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) matrix. These LDH-based hybrid host-guest systems contain bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and glycyrrhetinic acid, known for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The bioactive molecules can be gradually released from the nanocarriers over time, allowing for sustained and controlled delivery in various applications, such as active packaging or cosmetics. The morphological analysis of the polymer composites, prepared using a discontinuous mechanical mixer, revealed the presence of macroaggregates and nano-lamellae at the polymer interface. This resulted in an enhanced water vapor permeability compared to the original blend. Furthermore, the migration kinetics of active molecules from the thin films confirmed a controlled release mechanism based on their immobilization within the lamellar system. Scaling-up experiments evaluated the materials' morphology and mechanical and thermal properties. Remarkably, stretching deformation and a higher shear rate during the mixing process enhanced the dispersion and distribution of the nanocarriers, as confirmed by the favorable mechanical properties of the materials.

Silver Bionanocomposites as Active Food Packaging: Recent Advances & Future Trends Tackling the Food Waste Crisis.

Food waste is a pressing global challenge leading to over $1 trillion lost annually and contributing up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Extensive study has been directed toward the use of active biodegradable packaging materials to improve food quality, minimize plastic use, and encourage sustainable packaging technology development. However, this has been achieved with limited success, which can mainly be attributed to poor material properties and high production costs. In the recent literature, the integration of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has shown to improve the properties of biopolymer, prompting the development of bionanocomposites. Furthermore, the antibacterial properties of AgNPs against foodborne pathogens leads towards food shelf-life improvement and provides a route towards reducing food waste. However, few reviews have analyzed AgNPs holistically throughout a portfolio of biopolymers from an industrial perspective. Hence, this review critically analyses the antibacterial, barrier, mechanical, thermal, and water resistance properties of AgNP-based bionanocomposites. These advanced materials are also discussed in terms of food packaging applications and assessed in terms of their performance in enhancing food shelf-life. Finally, the current barriers towards the commercialization of AgNP bionanocomposites are critically discussed to provide an industrial action plan towards the development of sustainable packaging materials to reduce food waste.

Recent advances in biomacromolecule-based nanocomposite films for intelligent food packaging- A review.

In food packaging, biopolymer films are biodegradable films made from biomacromolecule-based natural materials, while biocomposite films are hybrids of two or more materials, with at least one being biodegradable. Bionanocomposites are different than the earlier ones, as they consist of various nanofillers (both natural and inorganic) in combination with biomacromolecule-based biodegradable materials to make good compostable bionanocomposites. In this regard, a new type of material known as bionanocomposite has been recently introduced to improve the properties and performance of biocomposite films. Bionanocomposites are primarily developed for active packaging, but their use in intelligent packaging is also noteworthy. For example, bionanocomposites developed using a hybrid of anthocyanin and carbon dots as intelligent materials have shown their high pH-sensing properties. The natural nanofillers (like nanocellulose, nanochitosan, nanoliposome, cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibers, etc.) are being employed to promote the sustainability, degradability and safety of bionanocomposites. Overall, this article comprehensively reviews the latest innovations in bionanocomposite films for intelligent food packaging over the past five years. In addition to packaging aspects, the role of nanofillers, the importance of life cycle assessment (LCA) and risk assessment, associated challenges, and future perspectives of bionanocomposite intelligent films are also discussed.

Edible Coatings and Future Trends in Active Food Packaging-Fruits' and Traditional Sausages' Shelf Life Increasing.

The global food production industry faces environmental concerns exacerbated by substantial food waste. European countries are striving to reduce food waste towards a circular bioeconomy and sustainable development. To address environmental issues and reduce plastic waste, researchers are developing sustainable active packaging systems, including edible packaging made from industry residues. These innovations aim to increase food safety and quality, extend shelf life, and reduce plastic and food waste. Particularly important in the context of the growing demand for fresh and minimally processed fruits, edible coatings have emerged as a potential solution that offers numerous advantages in maintaining fruit quality. In addition to fruit, edible coatings have also been investigated for animal-based foods to meet the demand for high-quality, chemical-free food and extended shelf life. These products globally consumed can be susceptible to the growth of harmful microorganisms and spoilage. One of the main advantages of using edible coatings is their ability to preserve meat quality and freshness by reducing undesirable physicochemical changes, such as color, texture, and moisture loss. Furthermore, edible coatings also contribute to the development of a circular bioeconomy, promoting sustainability in the food industry. This paper reviews the antimicrobial edible coatings investigated in recent years in minimally processed fruits and traditional sausages. It also approaches bionanocomposites as a recently emerged technology with potential application in food quality and safety.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) Bionanocomposites with Crystalline Nanocellulose and Graphene Oxide: Experimental Results and Support Vector Machine Modeling.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) is a biodegradable and biocompatible bacterial copolymer used in the biomedical and food industries. However, it displays low stiffness and strength for certain applications. This issue can be solved via reinforcement with nanofillers. In this work, PHBHHx-based bionanocomposites reinforced with different loadings of crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) and graphene oxide (GO) were developed by a green and straightforward solution casting technique. Their crystalline nature and surface topography were explored via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), respectively, their composition was corroborated via Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and their crystallization and melting behavior were determined via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The nanofillers had a nucleating role, raising the crystallization temperature of the polymer, whilst hardly any changes were found in the melting temperature. Further, significant enhancements in the stiffness, strength, and thermal stability of the PHBHHx matrix were observed with the incorporation of both nanofillers, which was attributed to a synergic effect. The mechanical properties for various concentrations of CNC and GO were accurately predicted using a machine learning (ML) model in the form of a support vector machine (SVM). The model performance was evaluated in terms of the mean absolute error (MAE), the mean square error (MSE), and the correlation coefficient (R2). These bio-based nanocomposites are a valuable alternative to conventional petroleum-based synthetic polymeric materials used nowadays for biomedicine and food packaging applications.

Bionanocomposite based on immobilization of Burkholderia cepacian on GO/MOF and its removal of malachite green from river water.

Bio-nanocomposites have attracted increasing research attention because they are able to integrate bio- and nano-related functions, and subsequently demonstrate potentially beneficial environmental applications. Here, a functional bionanomaterial based on Burkholderia cepacian (FZ) immobilized on GO/ZIF-8 was developed and used to remove malachite green (MG), with functions based on both biodegradation and adsorption. XRD and FTIR results showed that in situ production of GO/ZIF-8 by combining Zn2+ in ZIF-8 with the carboxyl group on the GO surface, led to FZ immobilized in GO/ZIF-8 through covalent bonding. Zeta analysis showed that the surface of FZ and GO/ZIF-8 had different charges under pH = 9.12, suggesting immobilization also occurred via electrostatic action. BET results confirmed that the specific surface area of GO/ZIF-8 was much larger than that of GO and ZIF-8, but the reduced specific surface area of FZ@GO/ZIF-8 could be due to FZ loading on its surface. The efficiency of FZ@GO/ZIF-8 in the removal of MG reached 99% and furthermore retained good stability after five cycles. The efficiency in removing multiple ions in river water reached more than 80%, which is evidence strongly suggesting that FZ@GO/ZIF-8 is an environmental bionanomaterial with effective application potential.