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, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.02.002
Abstract:
Enhancing awareness of personal cleanliness and antibacterial resistance has intensified the antibacterial substance request on consumable products. Antibacterial agents that have been commercialized nowadays are produced from inorganic and non-renewable substances. This provides several drawbacks, particularly against health and environmental issues. Therefore, many scientists work on substituting fossil-fuel-based antibacterial agents with natural ones such as from biomass. Biomass derivatives, natural abundances of biopolymers in the world, amount to major compounds including polysaccharides (cellulose, hemicellulose, and chitosan) and polyphenol (tannin and lignin) substances which are capable to combat the growth of Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. To date, no report focuses on a deep understanding of antibacterial properties derived from biomass and the internal and external factors effects. This work provides that gap because comprehensive knowledge is necessary before applying biomass to the products. The potency of biomass derivatives as antibacterial additives is also summarized. Basic knowledge of antibacterial characteristics to the application in products is highlighted in this review. Besides, the discussion about challenges and future perspectives is also delivered.
Enhancing awareness of personal cleanliness and antibacterial resistance has intensified the antibacterial substance request on consumable products. Antibacterial agents that have been commercialized nowadays are produced from inorganic and non-renewable substances. This provides several drawbacks, particularly against health and environmental issues. Therefore, many scientists work on substituting fossil-fuel-based antibacterial agents with natural ones such as from biomass. Biomass derivatives, natural abundances of biopolymers in the world, amount to major compounds including polysaccharides (cellulose, hemicellulose, and chitosan) and polyphenol (tannin and lignin) substances which are capable to combat the growth of Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. To date, no report focuses on a deep understanding of antibacterial properties derived from biomass and the internal and external factors effects. This work provides that gap because comprehensive knowledge is necessary before applying biomass to the products. The potency of biomass derivatives as antibacterial additives is also summarized. Basic knowledge of antibacterial characteristics to the application in products is highlighted in this review. Besides, the discussion about challenges and future perspectives is also delivered.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2023.12.002
Abstract:
As the population increases and manufacturing grows, greenhouse gas and other harmful emissions increase. Contaminated with chemicals such as dyes, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, oil, heavy metals or radionuclides, wastewater purification has become an urgent issue. Various technologies exist that can remove these contaminants from wastewater sources, but they often demand high energy and/or high cost, and in some cases produce contaminant laden sludge that requires safe disposal. The need for methods which are less capital intensive, less operationally costly and more environmentally friendly is suggested. Cellulose-based materials have emerged as promising candidates for wastewater treatment due to their renewability, low cost, biodegradability, hydrophilicity, and antimicrobial property. In this review article, we focussed on developing sustainable and biodegradable cellulose-based materials for wastewater treatment. This article deals with cellulose-based materials’ scope and their conversion into valuable products like hydrogel, aerogel, cellulose composites, and nanocellulose. The cellulose-based materials have no harmful environmental impact and are plentiful. The modified cellulose-based materials applying as membrane, adsorbent, sorbent, and beads to purify the wastewater were discussed. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of cellulose-based materials for wastewater treatment were considered, emphasizing their potential to be sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials used in wastewater treatment.
As the population increases and manufacturing grows, greenhouse gas and other harmful emissions increase. Contaminated with chemicals such as dyes, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, oil, heavy metals or radionuclides, wastewater purification has become an urgent issue. Various technologies exist that can remove these contaminants from wastewater sources, but they often demand high energy and/or high cost, and in some cases produce contaminant laden sludge that requires safe disposal. The need for methods which are less capital intensive, less operationally costly and more environmentally friendly is suggested. Cellulose-based materials have emerged as promising candidates for wastewater treatment due to their renewability, low cost, biodegradability, hydrophilicity, and antimicrobial property. In this review article, we focussed on developing sustainable and biodegradable cellulose-based materials for wastewater treatment. This article deals with cellulose-based materials’ scope and their conversion into valuable products like hydrogel, aerogel, cellulose composites, and nanocellulose. The cellulose-based materials have no harmful environmental impact and are plentiful. The modified cellulose-based materials applying as membrane, adsorbent, sorbent, and beads to purify the wastewater were discussed. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of cellulose-based materials for wastewater treatment were considered, emphasizing their potential to be sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials used in wastewater treatment.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.04.003
Abstract:
The change of temperature, humidity and moisture content (MC) will lead to the change of mechanical properties of molded fiber products (MFP). However, it is difficult to decouple the effects of temperature, humidity and MC on the mechanical properties of MFP, and predict the mechanical properties of MFP during the use. In this study, the laws and mechanism of mechanical properties of MFP with ambient temperature, humidity and MC were studied. The results showed that the direct effect of temperature (20−70 ℃) on mechanical properties of MFP was insignificant, and the mechanical properties of MFP were mainly changed by MC. The MC was related to ambient temperature and humidity, and the relationship between the three could be described by the modified Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model (20−70 ℃ and 30 %−90 % relative humidity). With the increase of MC, the elastic modulus and fracture strain was increased and decreased linearly, the yield strength and failure strength were presented GaussAmp laws, and the failure strain was presented asymptotic regressed distribution law. Two fracture modes of MFP, brittle fracture and ductile fracture, were revealed by the scanning electron microscopy of the mesoscopic fiber structure of sugarcane bagasse molded fiber products. The mathematical models and the changes of fiber structure were verified by wheat straw molded fiber products and waste paper molded fiber products. This study was contributed to understand the effects and mechanism of the change of temperature, humidity and MC on the mechanical properties of MFP.
The change of temperature, humidity and moisture content (MC) will lead to the change of mechanical properties of molded fiber products (MFP). However, it is difficult to decouple the effects of temperature, humidity and MC on the mechanical properties of MFP, and predict the mechanical properties of MFP during the use. In this study, the laws and mechanism of mechanical properties of MFP with ambient temperature, humidity and MC were studied. The results showed that the direct effect of temperature (20−70 ℃) on mechanical properties of MFP was insignificant, and the mechanical properties of MFP were mainly changed by MC. The MC was related to ambient temperature and humidity, and the relationship between the three could be described by the modified Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model (20−70 ℃ and 30 %−90 % relative humidity). With the increase of MC, the elastic modulus and fracture strain was increased and decreased linearly, the yield strength and failure strength were presented GaussAmp laws, and the failure strain was presented asymptotic regressed distribution law. Two fracture modes of MFP, brittle fracture and ductile fracture, were revealed by the scanning electron microscopy of the mesoscopic fiber structure of sugarcane bagasse molded fiber products. The mathematical models and the changes of fiber structure were verified by wheat straw molded fiber products and waste paper molded fiber products. This study was contributed to understand the effects and mechanism of the change of temperature, humidity and MC on the mechanical properties of MFP.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.03.005
Abstract:
Cellulose macrofibers (MFs) are gaining increasing interest as natural and biodegradable alternatives to fossil-derived polymers for both structural and functional applications. However, simultaneously achieving their exceptional mechanical performance and desired functionality is challenging and requires complex processing. Here, we reported a one-step approach using a tension-assisted twisting (TAT) technique for MF fabrication from bacterial cellulose (BC). The TAT stretches and aligns BC nanofibers pre-arranged in hydrogel tubes to form MFs with compactly assembled structures and enhanced hydrogen bonding among neighboring nanofibers. The as-prepared BC MFs exhibited a very high tensile strength of 1057 MPa and exceptional lifting capacity (over 340000 when normalized by their own weight). Moreover, due to the volume expansion of BC nanofibers upon water exposure, BC MFs quickly harvested energy from environmental moisture to untwist the bundled networks, thus generating a torsional spinning with a peak rotation speed of 884 r/(min·m). The demonstrated rapid and intense actuation response makes the MFs ideal candidates for diverse humidity-response-based applications beyond advanced actuators, remote rain indicators, intelligent switches, and smart curtains.
Cellulose macrofibers (MFs) are gaining increasing interest as natural and biodegradable alternatives to fossil-derived polymers for both structural and functional applications. However, simultaneously achieving their exceptional mechanical performance and desired functionality is challenging and requires complex processing. Here, we reported a one-step approach using a tension-assisted twisting (TAT) technique for MF fabrication from bacterial cellulose (BC). The TAT stretches and aligns BC nanofibers pre-arranged in hydrogel tubes to form MFs with compactly assembled structures and enhanced hydrogen bonding among neighboring nanofibers. The as-prepared BC MFs exhibited a very high tensile strength of 1057 MPa and exceptional lifting capacity (over 340000 when normalized by their own weight). Moreover, due to the volume expansion of BC nanofibers upon water exposure, BC MFs quickly harvested energy from environmental moisture to untwist the bundled networks, thus generating a torsional spinning with a peak rotation speed of 884 r/(min·m). The demonstrated rapid and intense actuation response makes the MFs ideal candidates for diverse humidity-response-based applications beyond advanced actuators, remote rain indicators, intelligent switches, and smart curtains.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.04.002
Abstract:
Retting has been employed to extract natural fibers from agricultural wastes as a biological and cost-effective approach for centuries. With its global abundance, banana pseudo-stem is a promising agro-waste for lignocellulosic fiber extraction. In this study, fibers were extracted from the pseudo-stems after being pre-treated under four conditions using seawater at room temperature for up to 35 d Bacterial isolation from the fresh seawater sample and screening for ligninolytic ability were conducted. Bacterial load as well as laccase and manganese peroxidase enzyme activity profile assay during the retting duration were analyzed. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and X-day diffraction (XRD) analyses were also examined for both pre-treated and untreated extracted fibers. The results shows that six out of the eight bacterial isolates had the ability to degrade lignin. The treatments (Raw stem + Raw seawater) and (Autoclaved stem + Raw seawater) recorded the highest viable bacterial load of 9.24 × 102 and 4.46 × 102 CFU, respectively, on the 14th day of the retting process. Additionally, the highest laccase and manganese peroxidase enzymes activity was recorded for (Raw stem + Raw seawater) and (Autoclaved stem + Raw seawater) treatments in the second to the third week. The FT-IR spectra of the pre-treated fibers revealed relative reductions in peaks attributed to polysaccharides and other amorphous substances for all retting conditions. The XRD diffractogram revealed that the crystallinity index (CI) of pre-treated fibers increased in all seawater retting treatment conditions. However, the CI for fibers pre-treated under enzymatic conditions were enhanced even after five weeks. Sequence analysis for selected bacterial isolates showed homology to sequences of Bacillus velezensis, Shewanella sp. L8–5, and Citrobacter amalonaticus and Bacillus subtilis j8 strain. From these findings, it was suggested that physical, biological, and chemical actions were collectively involved in the seawater retting process of banana pseudo-stems.
Retting has been employed to extract natural fibers from agricultural wastes as a biological and cost-effective approach for centuries. With its global abundance, banana pseudo-stem is a promising agro-waste for lignocellulosic fiber extraction. In this study, fibers were extracted from the pseudo-stems after being pre-treated under four conditions using seawater at room temperature for up to 35 d Bacterial isolation from the fresh seawater sample and screening for ligninolytic ability were conducted. Bacterial load as well as laccase and manganese peroxidase enzyme activity profile assay during the retting duration were analyzed. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and X-day diffraction (XRD) analyses were also examined for both pre-treated and untreated extracted fibers. The results shows that six out of the eight bacterial isolates had the ability to degrade lignin. The treatments (Raw stem + Raw seawater) and (Autoclaved stem + Raw seawater) recorded the highest viable bacterial load of 9.24 × 102 and 4.46 × 102 CFU, respectively, on the 14th day of the retting process. Additionally, the highest laccase and manganese peroxidase enzymes activity was recorded for (Raw stem + Raw seawater) and (Autoclaved stem + Raw seawater) treatments in the second to the third week. The FT-IR spectra of the pre-treated fibers revealed relative reductions in peaks attributed to polysaccharides and other amorphous substances for all retting conditions. The XRD diffractogram revealed that the crystallinity index (CI) of pre-treated fibers increased in all seawater retting treatment conditions. However, the CI for fibers pre-treated under enzymatic conditions were enhanced even after five weeks. Sequence analysis for selected bacterial isolates showed homology to sequences of Bacillus velezensis, Shewanella sp. L8–5, and Citrobacter amalonaticus and Bacillus subtilis j8 strain. From these findings, it was suggested that physical, biological, and chemical actions were collectively involved in the seawater retting process of banana pseudo-stems.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.01.002
Abstract:
Large quantities of hemp hulls can be completely utilized for creation of value-added products (cost effective biofuels and biochemicals) through a biorefinery approach. A sustainable approach in making xylose, a low calorie sweetener and high surface area activated carbons (AC) for super capacitors, attracts interest. The AC when leveraged as a co-product from biorefinery process makes it more cost effective and, in this paper, we discuss the production of xylose and AC from hemp seed hull with methane sulphonic acid (MSA) hydrolysis. Xylose recovery with MSA hydrolysis was 25.15 g/L when compared to the traditional sulphuric acid (SA) hydrolysis of 19.96 g/L at the same acid loading of 1.8 %. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra indicate partial delignification along with hemicellulose hydrolysis responsible for high xylose recovery. Post hydrolysis fibers were KOH activated and carbonized to make AC. The MSA hydrolyzed and KOH activated fiber produced pure, fluffier and finer particle AC with a drastic increase in surface area 1 452 m2/g when compared to SA hydrolyzed of 977 m2/g. These results indicate the potential of MSA in dilute acid hydrolysis of biomass for xylose recovery and production of high surface area activated carbon. From a production standpoint this can lead to increased use of sustainable low-cost agricultural biomass for making high surface area AC as components in supercapacitors.
Large quantities of hemp hulls can be completely utilized for creation of value-added products (cost effective biofuels and biochemicals) through a biorefinery approach. A sustainable approach in making xylose, a low calorie sweetener and high surface area activated carbons (AC) for super capacitors, attracts interest. The AC when leveraged as a co-product from biorefinery process makes it more cost effective and, in this paper, we discuss the production of xylose and AC from hemp seed hull with methane sulphonic acid (MSA) hydrolysis. Xylose recovery with MSA hydrolysis was 25.15 g/L when compared to the traditional sulphuric acid (SA) hydrolysis of 19.96 g/L at the same acid loading of 1.8 %. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra indicate partial delignification along with hemicellulose hydrolysis responsible for high xylose recovery. Post hydrolysis fibers were KOH activated and carbonized to make AC. The MSA hydrolyzed and KOH activated fiber produced pure, fluffier and finer particle AC with a drastic increase in surface area 1 452 m2/g when compared to SA hydrolyzed of 977 m2/g. These results indicate the potential of MSA in dilute acid hydrolysis of biomass for xylose recovery and production of high surface area activated carbon. From a production standpoint this can lead to increased use of sustainable low-cost agricultural biomass for making high surface area AC as components in supercapacitors.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.04.001
Abstract:
Bacterial cellulose (BC) is an exopolysaccharide with unique properties that has been applied in various fields. However, the dense and intertwined nature of BC fibers limits its use in certain applications, including 3D printing scaffolds for bone regeneration. In this work, a controllable BC-based bio-ink for 3D printing was successfully prepared by modifying the neat BC through maleic acid (MA) treatment, aiming to promote bone tissue regeneration. To achieve homogeneous BC dispersions while preserving its crystalline and chemical properties, BC was modified by MA solution (60 %, w/V) with solid-liquid ratio from 1꞉5 to 1꞉50 (w/V) to obtain MABC dispersions. The analysis results from microstructure, chemical group, crystallinity, and wettability indicated that the BC/MA solution with ratio of 1꞉30 demonstrated the best pre-treatment performance to obtain MA-BC. Subsequently, by combining MA-BC with gelatin, we successfully formulated MA-BC-GEL gels with favorable rheological properties and compression modulus, which can be used as promising bio-inks for 3D bioprinting applications. In vitro tests demonstrated 1꞉30 MA-BC possessed excellent biocompatibility, a significant ability to express the alkaline phosphatase gene and osteogenic-related genes, and facilitated the formation of mineralized nodules. The utilization of this novel bio-ink in scaffold preparation for bone regeneration highlights the promising application of modified BC in bone tissue engineering field.
Bacterial cellulose (BC) is an exopolysaccharide with unique properties that has been applied in various fields. However, the dense and intertwined nature of BC fibers limits its use in certain applications, including 3D printing scaffolds for bone regeneration. In this work, a controllable BC-based bio-ink for 3D printing was successfully prepared by modifying the neat BC through maleic acid (MA) treatment, aiming to promote bone tissue regeneration. To achieve homogeneous BC dispersions while preserving its crystalline and chemical properties, BC was modified by MA solution (60 %, w/V) with solid-liquid ratio from 1꞉5 to 1꞉50 (w/V) to obtain MABC dispersions. The analysis results from microstructure, chemical group, crystallinity, and wettability indicated that the BC/MA solution with ratio of 1꞉30 demonstrated the best pre-treatment performance to obtain MA-BC. Subsequently, by combining MA-BC with gelatin, we successfully formulated MA-BC-GEL gels with favorable rheological properties and compression modulus, which can be used as promising bio-inks for 3D bioprinting applications. In vitro tests demonstrated 1꞉30 MA-BC possessed excellent biocompatibility, a significant ability to express the alkaline phosphatase gene and osteogenic-related genes, and facilitated the formation of mineralized nodules. The utilization of this novel bio-ink in scaffold preparation for bone regeneration highlights the promising application of modified BC in bone tissue engineering field.
, Available online ,
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.02.001
Abstract:
Lignin is a rich renewable aromatic resource that can produce high-value-added chemicals. Lignin is regarded as one of the three major components of lignocellulosic biomass, which is composed of phenylpropane units connected by C–O bond and C–C bond. The cleavage of two chemical bonds is the main catalytic pathway in the production of chemicals and fuels from lignin. Although the cleavage of C–O converts lignin into valuable aromatic compounds and renewable carbon sources, selective depolymerization for C–C bonds is an important method to increase the yield of aromatic monomers. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the latest research trends on C–C bond selective cleavage in lignin and lignin model compounds, focusing on various catalytic systems, including hydrogenolysis, oxidate, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. By analyzing the current status of C–C bond breakage, the core issues and challenges related to this process and the expectations for future research were emphasized.
Lignin is a rich renewable aromatic resource that can produce high-value-added chemicals. Lignin is regarded as one of the three major components of lignocellulosic biomass, which is composed of phenylpropane units connected by C–O bond and C–C bond. The cleavage of two chemical bonds is the main catalytic pathway in the production of chemicals and fuels from lignin. Although the cleavage of C–O converts lignin into valuable aromatic compounds and renewable carbon sources, selective depolymerization for C–C bonds is an important method to increase the yield of aromatic monomers. Therefore, in this review, we summarized the latest research trends on C–C bond selective cleavage in lignin and lignin model compounds, focusing on various catalytic systems, including hydrogenolysis, oxidate, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. By analyzing the current status of C–C bond breakage, the core issues and challenges related to this process and the expectations for future research were emphasized.
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2024, 9(2): 127-129.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.03.001
Abstract:
2024, 9(2): 130-159.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.01.001
Abstract:
As the global population grows, the demand for textiles is increasing rapidly. However, this puts immense pressure on manufacturers to produce more fiber. While synthetic fibers can be produced cheaply, they have a negative impact on the environment. On the other hand, fibers from wool, sisal, fique, wood pulp (viscose), and man-made cellulose fibers (MMCFs) from cotton cannot alone meet the growing fiber demand without major stresses on land, water, and existing markets using these materials. With a greater emphasis on transparency and circular economy practices, there is a need to consider natural non-wood alternative sources for MMCFs to supplement other fiber types. However, introducing new feedstocks with different compositions may require different biomass conversion methods. Therefore, based on existing work, this review addresses the technical feasibility of various alternative feedstocks for conversion to textile-grade fibers. First, alternative feedstocks are introduced, and then conventional (dissolving pulp) and emerging (fibrillated cellulose and recycled material) conversion technologies are evaluated to help select the most suitable and promising processes for these emerging alternative sources of cellulose. It is important to note that for alternative feedstocks to be adopted on a meaningful scale, high biomass availability and proximity of conversion facilities are critical factors. In North America, soybean, wheat, rice, sorghum, and sugarcane residues are widely available and most suitable for conventional conversion through various dissolving pulp production methods (pre-hydrolysis kraft, acid sulfite, soda, SO2-ethanol-water, and potassium hydroxide) or by emerging cellulose fibrillation methods. While dissolving pulp conversion is well-established, fibrillated cellulose methods could be beneficial from cost, efficiency, and environmental perspectives. Thus, the authors strongly encourage more work in this growing research area. However, conducting thorough cost and sustainability assessments is important to determine the best feedstock and technology combinations.
As the global population grows, the demand for textiles is increasing rapidly. However, this puts immense pressure on manufacturers to produce more fiber. While synthetic fibers can be produced cheaply, they have a negative impact on the environment. On the other hand, fibers from wool, sisal, fique, wood pulp (viscose), and man-made cellulose fibers (MMCFs) from cotton cannot alone meet the growing fiber demand without major stresses on land, water, and existing markets using these materials. With a greater emphasis on transparency and circular economy practices, there is a need to consider natural non-wood alternative sources for MMCFs to supplement other fiber types. However, introducing new feedstocks with different compositions may require different biomass conversion methods. Therefore, based on existing work, this review addresses the technical feasibility of various alternative feedstocks for conversion to textile-grade fibers. First, alternative feedstocks are introduced, and then conventional (dissolving pulp) and emerging (fibrillated cellulose and recycled material) conversion technologies are evaluated to help select the most suitable and promising processes for these emerging alternative sources of cellulose. It is important to note that for alternative feedstocks to be adopted on a meaningful scale, high biomass availability and proximity of conversion facilities are critical factors. In North America, soybean, wheat, rice, sorghum, and sugarcane residues are widely available and most suitable for conventional conversion through various dissolving pulp production methods (pre-hydrolysis kraft, acid sulfite, soda, SO2-ethanol-water, and potassium hydroxide) or by emerging cellulose fibrillation methods. While dissolving pulp conversion is well-established, fibrillated cellulose methods could be beneficial from cost, efficiency, and environmental perspectives. Thus, the authors strongly encourage more work in this growing research area. However, conducting thorough cost and sustainability assessments is important to determine the best feedstock and technology combinations.
2024, 9(2): 160-173.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.01.004
Abstract:
Biofoam products have attracted considerable attention lately because there is a growing demand for green/sustainable products. To this end, various biobased foams have either been developed or are currently in development, e.g., bio-based polyurethanes (PUs), polylactic acid (PLA), starch, and polyhydroxyalkanotates (PHAs). Indeed, significant progress has been made; however, challenges still persist, for example, biobased foam products have poor processability, inferior compatibility, thermal and strength properties. In this review, we focus on five biofoam products: namely bio-based PUs, PLA, starch, PHAs, and cellulose biofoam products, along with their properties and performance, as well as their manufacturing processes. Further efforts are still needed to unlock the full potential of these bio-based products and meet the goal of complementing and gradually replacing some of their fossil-based counterparts. Finally, the challenges, as well as arising opportunities of future research directions are discussed.
Biofoam products have attracted considerable attention lately because there is a growing demand for green/sustainable products. To this end, various biobased foams have either been developed or are currently in development, e.g., bio-based polyurethanes (PUs), polylactic acid (PLA), starch, and polyhydroxyalkanotates (PHAs). Indeed, significant progress has been made; however, challenges still persist, for example, biobased foam products have poor processability, inferior compatibility, thermal and strength properties. In this review, we focus on five biofoam products: namely bio-based PUs, PLA, starch, PHAs, and cellulose biofoam products, along with their properties and performance, as well as their manufacturing processes. Further efforts are still needed to unlock the full potential of these bio-based products and meet the goal of complementing and gradually replacing some of their fossil-based counterparts. Finally, the challenges, as well as arising opportunities of future research directions are discussed.
2024, 9(2): 174-184.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.03.002
Abstract:
Lignocellulosic nanofibers (LCNFs), implying lignin-containing cellulose fibers, maintain the properties of both lignin and cellulose, which are hydrophobic and hydrophilic, respectively. The presence of hydrophobic lignin in LCNFs is expected to be an economical and attractive option that can improve the thermal and mechanical properties of polymers. Thus, this study was conducted to produce lignin-rich LCNFs from sugar-rich waste obtained from rice husks after acidic pretreatment. The LCNFs were produced from the lignin-rich solid fractions obtained after pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis, which were then incorporated as an additive into a chitosan-based film. The variations in lignin content in the range of approximately 50.6%–66.8% in differently obtained LCNFs gave significantly different optical strengths and mechanical properties. These controllable processes may allow for customized film formation. Additionally, the glucose-rich liquid fractions obtained after pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis were used as a substrate for ethanol fermentation to achieve total utilization of rice husk biomass waste. In conclusion, the lignin-rich biomass fraction holds promise as a suitable material for chitosan-LCNF film and has the potential to increase the economic feasibility of the biomaterial industry.
Lignocellulosic nanofibers (LCNFs), implying lignin-containing cellulose fibers, maintain the properties of both lignin and cellulose, which are hydrophobic and hydrophilic, respectively. The presence of hydrophobic lignin in LCNFs is expected to be an economical and attractive option that can improve the thermal and mechanical properties of polymers. Thus, this study was conducted to produce lignin-rich LCNFs from sugar-rich waste obtained from rice husks after acidic pretreatment. The LCNFs were produced from the lignin-rich solid fractions obtained after pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis, which were then incorporated as an additive into a chitosan-based film. The variations in lignin content in the range of approximately 50.6%–66.8% in differently obtained LCNFs gave significantly different optical strengths and mechanical properties. These controllable processes may allow for customized film formation. Additionally, the glucose-rich liquid fractions obtained after pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis were used as a substrate for ethanol fermentation to achieve total utilization of rice husk biomass waste. In conclusion, the lignin-rich biomass fraction holds promise as a suitable material for chitosan-LCNF film and has the potential to increase the economic feasibility of the biomaterial industry.
2024, 9(2): 185-196.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.03.004
Abstract:
Converting common biomass materials to high-performance biomedical products could not only reduce the environmental pressure associated with the large-scale use of synthetic materials, but also increase the economic value. Chitosan as a very promising candidate has drawn considerable attention owing to its abundant sources and remarkable bioactivities. However, pure chitosan materials usually exhibit insufficient mechanical properties and excessive swelling ratio, which seriously affected their in vivo stability and integrity when applied as tissue engineering scaffolds. Thus, simultaneously improving the mechanical strength and biological compatibility of pure chitosan (CS) scaffolds becomes very important. Here, inspired by the fiber-reinforced construction of natural extracellular matrix and the porous structure of cancellous bone, we built silk microfibers/chitosan composite scaffolds via ice-templating technique. This biomimetic strategy achieved 500% of mechanical improvement to pure chitosan, and meanwhile still maintaining high porosity (> 87%). In addition, the increased roughness of chitosan pore walls by embedded silk microfibers significantly promoted cell adhesion and proliferation. More importantly, after subcutaneous implantation in mice for four weeks, the composite scaffold showed greater structural integrity, as well as better collagenation, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis abilities, suggesting its great potential in biomedicine.
Converting common biomass materials to high-performance biomedical products could not only reduce the environmental pressure associated with the large-scale use of synthetic materials, but also increase the economic value. Chitosan as a very promising candidate has drawn considerable attention owing to its abundant sources and remarkable bioactivities. However, pure chitosan materials usually exhibit insufficient mechanical properties and excessive swelling ratio, which seriously affected their in vivo stability and integrity when applied as tissue engineering scaffolds. Thus, simultaneously improving the mechanical strength and biological compatibility of pure chitosan (CS) scaffolds becomes very important. Here, inspired by the fiber-reinforced construction of natural extracellular matrix and the porous structure of cancellous bone, we built silk microfibers/chitosan composite scaffolds via ice-templating technique. This biomimetic strategy achieved 500% of mechanical improvement to pure chitosan, and meanwhile still maintaining high porosity (> 87%). In addition, the increased roughness of chitosan pore walls by embedded silk microfibers significantly promoted cell adhesion and proliferation. More importantly, after subcutaneous implantation in mice for four weeks, the composite scaffold showed greater structural integrity, as well as better collagenation, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis abilities, suggesting its great potential in biomedicine.
2024, 9(2): 197-210.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.03.003
Abstract:
Phenolation is one of the effective strategies to synthesize lignin-based polyphenols, improve lignin's properties, and extend its value-added applications in biological, medicinal and cosmetic fields. Herein, by taking the structural feature advantage of lignin, an effective and green strategy was developed to molecularly engineer lignin into a robust lignin-3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate ester (LPPE) derivative via a transesterification reaction between 3,4-dihydrocoumarin (DHC) and the aliphatic hydroxyls in lignin under organocatalysis. The strategy is optimized and the novel derivative was systematically characterized by 1H, 13C and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The findings indicated that the successful introduction of 3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate groups using a OH groups/DHC/organic base molar ratio of 1꞉1꞉0.3 at 120 °C for 6 h increased the content of phenolic hydroxyl groups from 1.793 1 to 3.017 9 mmol/g, and the LPPE exhibited excellent ultraviolet-absorbing and antioxidant performance with up to 90% free radical scavenging activity within 20 min using 5 mg/mL of LPPE. In addition, good biocompatibility and a high Sun protection factor (SPF) value of 40.9 were achieved at 5% (w) dosage of LPPE in the cream, indicating its significant application potential in sunscreen.
Phenolation is one of the effective strategies to synthesize lignin-based polyphenols, improve lignin's properties, and extend its value-added applications in biological, medicinal and cosmetic fields. Herein, by taking the structural feature advantage of lignin, an effective and green strategy was developed to molecularly engineer lignin into a robust lignin-3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate ester (LPPE) derivative via a transesterification reaction between 3,4-dihydrocoumarin (DHC) and the aliphatic hydroxyls in lignin under organocatalysis. The strategy is optimized and the novel derivative was systematically characterized by 1H, 13C and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The findings indicated that the successful introduction of 3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate groups using a OH groups/DHC/organic base molar ratio of 1꞉1꞉0.3 at 120 °C for 6 h increased the content of phenolic hydroxyl groups from 1.793 1 to 3.017 9 mmol/g, and the LPPE exhibited excellent ultraviolet-absorbing and antioxidant performance with up to 90% free radical scavenging activity within 20 min using 5 mg/mL of LPPE. In addition, good biocompatibility and a high Sun protection factor (SPF) value of 40.9 were achieved at 5% (w) dosage of LPPE in the cream, indicating its significant application potential in sunscreen.
2024, 9(2): 211-221.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2023.12.006
Abstract:
Low molecular aromatic compounds are detrimental to the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulose. However, the specific role of their functional groups remains unclear. Here, a series of nine aromatic compounds as additives were tested to understand their effect on the hydrolysis yield of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and alkaline pretreated wheat straw. Based on the results, the inhibition of aldehyde groups on MCC was greater than that of carboxyl groups, whereas for the alkaline pretreated wheat straw case, the inhibitory effect of aldehyde groups was lower than that of carboxyl groups. Increased methoxyl groups of aromatic compounds reduced the inhibitory effect on enzymatic hydrolysis of both substrates. Stronger inhibition of aromatic compounds on MCC hydrolysis was detected in comparison with the alkaline pretreated wheat straw, indicating that the substrate lignin can offset the inhibition to a certain extent. Among all aromatic compounds, syringaldehyde with one aldehyde group and two methoxyl groups improved the glucan conversion of the alkaline pretreated wheat straw.
Low molecular aromatic compounds are detrimental to the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulose. However, the specific role of their functional groups remains unclear. Here, a series of nine aromatic compounds as additives were tested to understand their effect on the hydrolysis yield of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and alkaline pretreated wheat straw. Based on the results, the inhibition of aldehyde groups on MCC was greater than that of carboxyl groups, whereas for the alkaline pretreated wheat straw case, the inhibitory effect of aldehyde groups was lower than that of carboxyl groups. Increased methoxyl groups of aromatic compounds reduced the inhibitory effect on enzymatic hydrolysis of both substrates. Stronger inhibition of aromatic compounds on MCC hydrolysis was detected in comparison with the alkaline pretreated wheat straw, indicating that the substrate lignin can offset the inhibition to a certain extent. Among all aromatic compounds, syringaldehyde with one aldehyde group and two methoxyl groups improved the glucan conversion of the alkaline pretreated wheat straw.
2024, 9(2): 222-232.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2024.01.003
Abstract:
The standard epoxy resin curing agents revealed are from unsustainable petroleum-based sources, which produce poisonous exhaust when cured. Amino acids, a bio-based epoxy curing agent with amino and carboxyl groups, are another potential curing agent. Water-soluble epoxy resins cured with lysine (Lys), glutamic acid (Glu), leucine (Leu), and serine (Ser) as amino acids were investigated. The results showed that the water-soluble epoxy resin (glycerol epoxy resins, GER) was cured with Lys and Glu after reacting. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic analysis of the GER-Lys showed that the amino and carboxyl groups of Lys primarily reacted with the epoxy groups of GER. The elongation at break of Lys-cured GER (GER-Lys) cured at 70 ℃ with a molar ratio of 1꞉0.75 was 75.32%. The fact that elongations at break of GER-Lys (79.43%) were higher than those of GER-Glu (17.33%), respectively supports the decrease of crosslinking density by the amino acid-cured GER reaction. The potential of Lys and Glu alternatives for petrochemical amines is demonstrated and provides promising opportunities for industrial application.
The standard epoxy resin curing agents revealed are from unsustainable petroleum-based sources, which produce poisonous exhaust when cured. Amino acids, a bio-based epoxy curing agent with amino and carboxyl groups, are another potential curing agent. Water-soluble epoxy resins cured with lysine (Lys), glutamic acid (Glu), leucine (Leu), and serine (Ser) as amino acids were investigated. The results showed that the water-soluble epoxy resin (glycerol epoxy resins, GER) was cured with Lys and Glu after reacting. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic analysis of the GER-Lys showed that the amino and carboxyl groups of Lys primarily reacted with the epoxy groups of GER. The elongation at break of Lys-cured GER (GER-Lys) cured at 70 ℃ with a molar ratio of 1꞉0.75 was 75.32%. The fact that elongations at break of GER-Lys (79.43%) were higher than those of GER-Glu (17.33%), respectively supports the decrease of crosslinking density by the amino acid-cured GER reaction. The potential of Lys and Glu alternatives for petrochemical amines is demonstrated and provides promising opportunities for industrial application.
2024, 9(2): 233-242.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2023.11.001
Abstract:
Ethyl levulinate (EL) is a key biomass-derived compounds due to its socio-economic benefits for the synthesis of commodity chemicals. Herein, we proposed an efficient one-step bamboo conversion to EL in ethanol, and a novel stepwise fractionation to purify EL and lignocellulose degradation products. A proton acid, due to its high catalytic efficiency, yielded 26.65 % EL in 120 min at 200 °C. The productions of ethyl glucoside and 5-ethoxymethylfurfural were analyzed in terms of by-products formation. To the best of our knowledge, there is no single report on catalyst for one step synthesis of EL directly from bamboo, as well as a stepwise fractionation to purify EL. Due to similar physiochemical properties in each fraction, the platform molecules could broaden a new paradigm of bamboo biomass utilization for renewable energy and value-added biochemicals. In addition, glucose, ethyl glucoside, corn starch, and microcrystalline cellulose were also investigated as substrates, so that the reaction intermediates of this one-pot procedure were identified and a possible reaction mechanism was proposed.
Ethyl levulinate (EL) is a key biomass-derived compounds due to its socio-economic benefits for the synthesis of commodity chemicals. Herein, we proposed an efficient one-step bamboo conversion to EL in ethanol, and a novel stepwise fractionation to purify EL and lignocellulose degradation products. A proton acid, due to its high catalytic efficiency, yielded 26.65 % EL in 120 min at 200 °C. The productions of ethyl glucoside and 5-ethoxymethylfurfural were analyzed in terms of by-products formation. To the best of our knowledge, there is no single report on catalyst for one step synthesis of EL directly from bamboo, as well as a stepwise fractionation to purify EL. Due to similar physiochemical properties in each fraction, the platform molecules could broaden a new paradigm of bamboo biomass utilization for renewable energy and value-added biochemicals. In addition, glucose, ethyl glucoside, corn starch, and microcrystalline cellulose were also investigated as substrates, so that the reaction intermediates of this one-pot procedure were identified and a possible reaction mechanism was proposed.
2021, 6(4): 292-322.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2021.03.003
2020, 5(1): 1-15.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2020.03.001
2020, 5(4): 223-237.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2020.10.001
2020, 5(3): 143-162.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2020.07.001
2019, 4(1): 11-21.
doi: 10.21967/jbb.v4i1.189
2020, 5(3): 143-162.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2020.07.001
2020, 5(1): 1-15.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobab.2020.03.001
2016, 1(3): 106-113.
doi: 10.21967/jbb.v1i3.49
Current Issue
Year 2024 Vol. 9 No.2
Table of ContentsCN32-1890/S7
ISSN 2369-9698
J. Bioresour. Bioprod.
Quarterly
Started in 2016
Editor-in-chief
Huining Xiao, Prof.
University of New Brunswick, Canada
Jianchun Jiang, Prof.
Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, China
- 1Superhydrophobic modification of cellulose and cotton textiles: method-ologies and applications
- 2Chitosan as A Preservative for Fruits and Vegetables: A Review on Chemistry and Antimicrobial Properties
- 3Natural Mesoporous Activated Carbon from Toxic Plant Stellera Chamaejasme Roots by Chemical Methods
- 4An overview of bio-based polymers for packaging materials
- 1Chitosan as A Preservative for Fruits and Vegetables: A Review on Chemistry and Antimicrobial Properties
- 2Utilization of waste straw and husks from rice production: A review
- 3Superhydrophobic modification of cellulose and cotton textiles: method-ologies and applications
- 4An overview of bio-based polymers for packaging materials
- 1Synthesis and Application of Granular Activated Carbon from Biomass Waste Materials for Water Treatment: A Review
- 2Superhydrophobic modification of cellulose and cotton textiles: method-ologies and applications
- 3Cellulose nanocomposites:Fabrication and biomedical applications
- 4Utilization of waste straw and husks from rice production: A review
News
- The Latest Review on Thermochemical Conversion of Woody Biomass for Green H2 Production and CO2 Capture
- Editors of JB&B Attend the Third National Cellulose Symposium for Journal Publicity
- 2023 JB&B Working Conference Held in Nanjing Forestry University
- Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts is now indexed by ESCI
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