To increase the interfacial shear stress, adhesion, and bonding between carbon fibers (CFs) and polymer matrices in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites, various strategies have been explored to reduce the hydrophobicity of CFs by increasing their surface area and enhancing their chemical reactivity1. Both dry methods, such as plasma and high-energy irradiation, and wet methods, including sizing, electrochemical treatments, and acid treatment, have been used to modify the surface of CFs1,2. In this study, we combined dry oxidative plasma treatment of CFs with a subsequent wet functionalization with branched polyethyleneimine (b-PEI). Plasma-activated fibers were suspended in a water b-PEI solution, allowing modulation of the grafted b-PEI amount by adjusting plasma treatment parameters, b-PEI concentration, and reaction time. Functionalized CFs were analyzed through infrared and Raman spectroscopies, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analyses. Interestingly, our functionalization process is cost-effective and provides a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional industrial methods, as it does not require hazardous reactants and solvents. Finally, we applied the non-isothermal method to study the curing kinetics of an epoxy/anhydride system in the presence of 20 wt.% of commercial CFs or CFs modified with b-PEI at two different concentrations, highlighting the role of grafted b-PEI in the curing process.

The self-assembly potential of soft matter attracts considerable attention, especially after recent and on-going advances in characterization techniques. Well-ordered morphologies (cylinders, lamellae, cubic networks etc.) can be visualized using real- and reciprocal-space methodologies such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Network-like morphologies are adopted on rather limited areas in the block copolymer phase diagram and albeit various studies have shed light on the origins of self-assembly, the study of the detailed nature of a periodic structure (in terms of topology and geometry) requires the use of three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques. Polystyrene-b-poly(dimethylsiloxane) or PS-b-PDMS linear and non-linear copolymers form cubic structures such as double-gyroid (Figure 1), double diamond, double primitive and Frank-Kasper-like network phases as indicated in the relative literature unravelling the potential of the specific copolymers for several advanced applications [1-5].
Our aim is to establish the structure/property relationship of linear and non-linear star block copolymers with different number of arms that are able to form network phases using advanced microscopy methods such as TEM and focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). The alternative real-space imaging technique enables a systematic examination with high resolution of tubular network phases in terms of order and defects formation.

Recently, nanotechnology has demonstrated significant potential in cancer radiotherapy by expanding the therapeutic window1. The lack of understanding of nanoparticle (NP)-based radioenhancement hampers strategic material design and limits the effective use of the available material design space2. Comparative studies of different materials under various radiation types are essential to better understand the radioenhancing properties of nanomaterials, ultimately enabling the design of optimized radioenhancers for improved therapy outcomes.
Here, we investigated the radioenhancing ability of various metallic NPs, including both low- and high-Z materials such as Au, Bi, Mn, and Pt NPs. The NPs were synthesized using a one-step biomineralization method with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a template, ensuring uniform shape and surface coating. Albumin-based biomineralization offers several benefits, including an eco-friendly synthesis process, a simple and reproducible method, high biocompatibility, and excellent stability3. To prepare all the target NPs to the same size, the effects of factors such as pH, temperature, and reaction time were investigated. The size of the obtained NPs was measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The mean particle diameters based on TEM images ranged from ~2-3 nm for all NPs.
Subsequently, we investigated the enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by NPs under irradiation. Finally, the NP radiation-enhancement effect was evaluated using the colony formation assay, the method of choice for determining cell reproductive death after treatment with ionizing radiation4.

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) is usually prepared by incorporation of plasticizers into a starch matrix under heat and shear conditions. TPS-based bioplastic nanocomposites represent a promising alternative to conventional plastics since they are cost-effective, renewable, abundant in nature, and biodegradable [1,2]. Moreover, it has been widely used as an excellent candidate for partial replacement of synthetic polymers and expensive biodegradable compostable bioplastics in many applications. However, TPS suffers from recrystallization phenomena caused by humidity. This evolution is highly detrimental, as it leads to a drastic decrease in its mechanical properties during storage [3,4].
Herein, this contribution is focused on investigating the influence of seven weeks of aging under exactly defined relative humidities (RH) of 11, 55, and 85% on the mechanical properties of TPS–montmorillonite (MMT) nanocomposite. Both TPS and nanocomposite samples stored at 11% RH at room temperature were brittle and preserved their glassy state. They did not recrystallize due to the small amount of water and only physical aging could take place throughout the whole period of storage. On the contrary, the samples stored at higher RHs (55 and 85%) absorbed a significant amount of water acting as a plasticizer which allowed the samples to recrystallize during the first week of storage. Moreover, during storage at the highest RH (85%) the water molecules significantly reduced starch intermolecular hydrogen bonding density leading to deterioration of all mechanical properties measured.

Acknowledgments
This study was supported by projects VEGA 2/0109/23, APVV-23-0224, APVV-23-0635, and COST HISTRATE CA21155.

Bacterial cellulose (BC) and its composites have proven useful in various environmental applications [1,2]. In this work, we explore the potential of BC cultivated on grape pomace, waste material, and its composite with polypyrrole (PPy) as a sustainable and efficient adsorbent for the adsorptive removal of heavy metals and organic dyes from wastewater. In-situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of BC gels was utilized to coat BC with PPy and prepare BC/PPy composite. Various analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, BET surface area, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to characterize the BC/PPy composite. BC/PPy has demonstrated excellent adsorption capability of organic (Reactive black 5, RB) and inorganic (hexavalent chromium ions, Cr(VI)) wastewater contaminants in single and binary solute systems. Various parameters, e.g., contact time, pH, and adsorbent dosage, were evaluated in batch sorption experiments. The adsorption processes were found to obey pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity of 485.4 and 130.7 mg/g of Cr(VI) and RB was achieved at pH 2 and 4, respectively. After five adsorption/desorption cycles, BC/PPy maintained removal efficiencies of 92.1 and 97.7% for Cr(VI) and RB, respectively, verifying the log operating life of BC/PPy adsorbent. This research demonstrates the low-cost, reusable, and highly efficient BC/PPy composite as an adsorbent for heavy metals and organic dyes from wastewater.

Nowadays, materials selection for bearings made of polymeric materials is focused on application of organic reinforcements into polymeric matrices due to presence of residual fatty acids that can substantially reduce coefficient of friction [1-3]. In the presented work the agricultural wastes like cherry shells and plum shells were combined with two types of poly(lactide acid) PLA and the composites has been tested in terms of tribological properties without additional lubrication. Shells were pulverized to a powder state and then subjected to separation into different grade fractions: 200-400 µm; 400-630 µm; 630 - 800 µm. Composites with 15% by weight of cherry/plum powders and two grades of crystalline PLA 2500 HP and 3100 HP were melt mixed via co-rotating twin screw extruder. Samples for tribological test were injection molded. Tribological tests were carried out with the application of the “block-on-ring” system, where the metallic ring (1045 steel) was used as a counter-surface (Fig. 1a). The kinetic friction test conditions were as follows: ring speed 150 rpm, top load 250N, test duration 30 min. The frictional behaviour was analysed on the basis of the measured values for the friction torque and the CoF (coefficient of friction). The most signifficant reduction in the value of CoF was noted for PLA 3110 HP/15% of plum shell (powdered to 400-630 um particle range) compared to neat PLA and it was over 40% (from 0,37 to 0,22 kinetic CoF) (Fig. 1b,c). The research was financially supported by the PUT, internal subsidy 0613/SIGR/2403.

Nanostructured carbon-based nanomaterials modified with functional polymers bearing suitable positively charged groups, such as guanidine groups, quaternary ammonium groups, etc., are attracting the researchers’ interest due to their improved properties including antibacterial ones [1-3]. Carbon nanodisks represent an interesting alternative to bulk graphite, produced through the so-called pyrolytic Kværner Carbon Black & H2 (CB&H) process [4]. In this study, hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine) of two different molecular weights (i.e. 1300 Da and 5000 Da) functionalized with decyl-triphenylphosphonium groups were prepared and subsequently interacted through both covalent and non-covalent bonds with the acid-treated carbon nanodisks (oxCNDs), affording the nanohybrids oxCNDs@PEI(1300)-TPP(C10) and oxCNDs@PEI(5000)-TPP(C10) with approximately 20-24%. polymer loadings. These nanohybrids were characterized by various physicochemical techniques to confirm their chemical structure. Furthermore, their antibacterial activity was evaluated against Gram (-) Escherichia coli and Gram (+) Staphylococcus Aureus. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that all nanohybrids exhibit improved antibacterial properties compared to oxCNDs, especially against Gram (+) S. aureus bacteria, with oxCND@PEI(1300)-TPP(C10) being more efficient. Finally, their cytotoxicity was evaluated against mammalian cells and it was found that the hybrid materials do not exhibit any significant toxicity. These findings indicate that these nanohybrids have great potential to be used as safe and efficient antibacterial agents in various applications, including those in the disinfection industry.
Funding
This work funded by the European Union, and granted by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) by the European Union Horizon Europe Programme for Research and Innovation under the Grant Agreement N° 101091534 – KNOWSKITE-X.

In this work, multifunctional composites have been developed for both thermal energy storage and mechanical applications. The core of these composites consists of epoxy (EP) foams infused with microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) optimised to enhance latent heat storage and low thermal conductivity. These foams were integrated with high performance epoxy/carbon fibre laminate skins to produce composite sandwich panels. Microstructural analysis confirmed strong interfacial bonding between the core and skins, ensuring structural integrity. The resulting composite panels exhibited mechanical properties comparable to conventional EP sandwich composites and improved heat storage and thermal insulation properties. These advanced composites offer a promising solution for weight-sensitive applications requiring both thermal stability and mechanical performance, including aerospace and refrigerated transport.

As the most abundant biopolymer on Earth, cellulose has played a key role as a natural resource throughout human history. However, only in recent decades has its potential as a functional material for photonic applications been revealed. Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) is a commercially available biodegradable cellulose derivative that self-assembles into chiral nematic liquid crystal phases in water. In this way, highly concentrated HPC aqueous suspensions (e.g., 60–70 wt.%) interact with visible light and produce Bragg-like reflections, exhibiting vivid structural colors with the reflected wavelength determined by the helical pitch periodicity [1]. In this work, we demonstrate a low-cost approach for fabricating strain-responsive photonic sensors on the basis of an HPC aqueous mesophase. Our mechanochromic sensors were developed by encapsulating an HPC suspension within a layered polymeric structure, ensuring mechanical flexibility while preserving its photonic properties [2]. Upon mechanical deformation, variations in the cholesteric pitch dynamically shift the reflected wavelength, producing a reversible mechanochromic response. The color shift is visible to the naked eye, enabling real-time strain sensing without the need for an external power source [3,4]. The combination of sustainability, tunable optical response, and ease of processing positions HPC-based systems as promising candidates for next-generation photonic devices. The proposed concept offers a scalable platform for strain detection, contributing to the advancement of eco-friendly optical sensing technologies.

Polysaccharides such as chitosan (CS), collagen, xanthan, dextran, alginate, hyaluronic acid, starch, cellulose and their derivatives, have been widely employed in the development of cryogenically-structured composites. These materials are fabricated by an ice segregation-induced self-assembly technique involving freezing, frozen storage and thawing [1,2]. This process results in highly interconnected porous networks with enhanced elasticity and shape memory properties. By adjusting the cooling rate, composite cryogels can be tailored to exhibit specific structural patterns, such as fibrillar, columnar or lamellar architectures [1]. The versatility of these biomaterial-based cryogels makes them suitable for a range of applications from wastewater treatment to medicine [1,2]. In addition, bio-based porous hydrogels enriched with phytocompounds have gained significant interest in the health field [3,4]. An interesting approach involves the fabrication of hybrid macroporous cryogel constructs utilizing a modified-CS matrix incorporating a polyphenolic extract. Due to the strong interactions between functional groups of CS network and the polyphenols in extract, these hybrid cryogels exhibit outstanding liquid absorption, mechanical resilience, antioxidant properties and broad spectrum antibacterial activity. The hybrid cryogels absorbed up to 136 times their dry weight, and withstood more than 70% deformation without fracture, showing full shape recovery after compression. The inclusion of polyphenolic extract enhances reactive oxygen species scavenging and antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. This work highlights an effective strategy for immobilizing bioactive extracts within 3D cryogel networks, offering promising potential for wound healing, hemostasis, and skin regeneration applications.

Performance of flexible electronic devices based on MXene-polymer composites can be significantly enhanced by optimizing polymer composition and the design of MXenes and polymers. This study focuses on the development and characterization of novel polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites reinforced with 1 wt.% of functionalized MXene. A series of nanocomposites with varying soft segment content (30–60 wt.%) was synthesized via in situ polymerization. Comprehensive characterization of the nanocomposites demonstrated significant improvements in structural, mechanical, surface, and thermal properties with the addition of MXene. FTIR analysis revealed that MXene incorporation enhanced microphase separation (17–50%) and strengthened hydrogen bonding (HB) interactions (HB index: 38–66%). XPS analysis confirmed the presence of MXene within the nanocomposite structure. Tensile testing of PU nanocomposites demonstrated a substantial enhancement in Young’s modulus (8–84 MPa) and tensile strength (2–11 MPa) as compared to pure PU. Surface characterization indicated a decrease in roughness (11–87 nm), while thermal analyses revealed an increase in the glass transition temperature from 48 to 62 °C and the degradation temperature from 278 to 297 °C as compared to pure PU. Among the studied materials, the PU nanocomposite with 50 wt.% soft segment content exhibited the most favorable characteristics for flexible electronic applications, including superior mechanical properties, enhanced thermal stability, and minimal surface roughness. These findings demonstrate that functionalized MXene can be effectively utilized to tailor the functional properties of PU nanocomposites, paving the way for advanced materials suitable for applications such as EMI shielding coatings and strain sensors.

Acknowledgments
This research was supported by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, #4950, Polymer/graphene heterostructures for physiological sensors – Polygraph and by the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation of the Republic of Serbia (Contract No: 451-03-136/2025-03/200026).

Paper has been widely used in the packaging sector, especially in the last decade, as it is one of the most sustainable alternatives for replacing single-use plastics [1]. However, despite its versatility, it often exhibits poor barrier properties, not allowing its direct application in the food and beverage packaging sector [2]. In the context of food packaging applications, water and oil/grease barriers are extremely important, however quite difficult to be achieved simultaneously [3]. To assign desired barrier properties to papers, conventional petroleum-based derivatives coatings, such as polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, waxes and/or fluorine-based derivatives are still the most traditional materials to improve the permeation resistance against gases, grease and oils [4]. However, although the paper surface barrier is improved by employing these materials, their poor recyclability and biodegradability raise several long-term environmental concerns. To circumvent these issues, fluorine-free polymeric silica-based coatings have emerged as environmentally friendly substitutes for the above-mentioned materials. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a fluorine-free polymeric silica, and well known has an environmentally friendly precursor with excellent water and oil resistance [5]. In this context, this study presents a series of new water and oil-resistant PDMS-based coating papers. A pre-reticulation reaction of PDMS was performed with a selected precursor, followed by deposition on the surface of a calendared 100 % Eucalyptus globulus kraft paper, and further cured. These coated papers obtained demonstrated superior oil and water resistance, wich could be easily applied as food paper packaging materials to replace numerous single-use plastic products.

Polysaccharide-based porous hydrogels, in particular, can address challenges related to bioavailability, solubility, stability, and targeted delivery of natural antioxidant compounds. Their porous structure facilitates the encapsulation and controlled release of these compounds, enhancing their therapeutic effectiveness [1,2]. In this study, the cryogelation technique was adopted to prepare novel dextran (Dx)-based porous hydrogels embedding a polyphenol-rich natural extract from Picea abies spruce bark (SBE) [3]. The entrapment of SBE within the Dx network was confirmed by FTIR, SEM, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). SEM analysis revealed that SBE entrapment resulted in denser cryogels with smaller and more uniform pores. Swelling kinetics confirmed that higher concentrations of Dx, EGDGE, and SBE reduced water uptake. The release studies demonstrated the effective stabilization of SBE in Dx-based cryogels, with minimal release, irrespective of the approach selected for SBE incorporation, either during synthesis (~3–4%) or post-synthesis (~15–16%). The resulting biomaterials exhibit enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, presenting new opportunities for biomedical applications. The integration of SBE into Dx-based cryogels forms a synergistic system with an extended functional lifespan, reduced environmental impact, and potential applications ipharmaceuticals, food preservation, and environmental protection.

Steroid estrogens (SEs) are significant endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) and major environmental micropollutants, impacting ecosystems at very low concentrations (approximately 10 ng/L). They exhibit potent estrogenic effects, leading to reproductive, neuro-endocrine, and cardiovascular issues, as well as potential immunotoxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. The extensive use of SEs results in serious wastewater contamination, persisting even post-treatment. Present in the environment at ng/L levels, there’s an urgent need for effective technologies to remove SEs from water.
This study introduces composite poly[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-co-ethylene dimethacrylate/graphene oxide (PDE/GO) particles for estrone (E1) removal from water. PDE particles were synthesized via free-radical polymerization in a water/ethanol mixture, initiated with potassium persulfate at 80 °C for 24 hours.[1] Composite PDE/GO particles were prepared under similar conditions and then PDE and PDE/GO particles were quaternized using iodomethane. We evaluated the effectiveness of PDE/GO, PDE, and GO in removing E1 from water at E1 initial concentration of 200 µg/L, at 25 ºC and a pH range of 5 to 9, using 2 mg/mL of each particle over 120 minutes. While PDE and GO demonstrated a removal efficacy of 40-60 %, the composite PDE/GO particles exhibited remarkable 100 % removal of E1 within 5 minutes across all pH levels, attributed to the synergistic effect of the composite PDE/GO particles. The reusability, maximum adsorption capacity, and thermodynamics of the composite particles were also assessed.

Acknowledgment: The authors wish to thank the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TH80020001) for the financial support.

This study investigates two o-nitrobenzyl ester (NBE) epoxies, NBE-a and NBE-b, as photocleavable components in non-conductive adhesives (NCAs) for micro-LED packaging. NBE-a shows a relatively low yield (42%) due to the formation of an intermediate, as confirmed by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR analyses, whereas NBE-b achieves a higher yield (72%) with no detectable intermediate. Both epoxies exhibit UV-induced degradation, evidenced by shifts in UV-Vis absorption spectra and the diminishing nitro group peak at 1535 cm−1 in FT-IR. Interestingly, NBE-a degrades more rapidly, likely due to the stronger electron-withdrawing effect of its single CH2 linkage. In contrast, the additional CH2 linkage in NBE-b slows photodegradation but confers greater thermal stability (onset of decomposition at 237 °C vs. 209 °C for NBE-a).
When incorporated into NCAs, NBE-b reduces viscosity and slightly lowers the peak curing temperature, promoting faster initial reactions under dynamic conditions. However, it also delays gelation and decreases the total exotherm, implying modified curing kinetics that extend processing time—a critical advantage for precise alignment in micro-LED bonding. Notably, an 8:2 NBE-b formulation exhibits an 82% reduction in 90° peel strength (from 10.05±0.54 N/in to 1.81±0.29 N/in) after UV exposure, illustrating its reworkable potential. Formulations lacking NBE-b show minimal changes post-UV irradiation. Overall, NBE-b’s balanced photodegradation efficiency, higher thermal stability, and favorable rheological properties make it a promising candidate for reworkable, photocleavable NCAs in advanced Micro-LED packaging applications.

The transition from synthetic plastic-based packaging to biodegradable alternatives is advancing quickly driven by the stringent plastic-related regulations [1]. The utilization of natural resources, industrial by-products, and wastes, combined with cleaner processing techniques, is being prioritized, contributing to sustainability and circular economy [2]. Over the last decade, starch as a renewable thermoplastic material has garnered significant interest from the packaging industry as a substitute of the synthetic ones. Regarding the starch-based composites, the high hydrophilicity and weak mechanical response offered by these products limits its wide application. To address these limitations, several additives, such as fibrous or inorganic fillers are usually added [3]. In this study, we prepared four-component formulations including starch as the main matrix, different cellulosic pulps from the pulp industry as the reinforcing element, kaolin as the inorganic filler, and water as the plasticizing and blowing agent. The mixtures were processed using injection moulding to produce lightweight composites, diverging from the more commonly employed method of thermoforming. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of each aforementioned formulation components on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and dimensional stability of the final products. The results showed that water plays a crucial role on the processability and microstructure of the foamed materials. The injection moulding of formulations is very difficult for water contents below 40 wt% or above 60 wt%. Fibrous pulp acts positively as a mechanical reinforcement component of the composite, being applied up to 10-15% wt% and causing procedural difficulties when applied at levels higher than 15% wt%.

Recently, research has been actively conducted to reduce greenhouse gases and replace petrochemical raw materials to solve problems such as global warming and achieve sustainable growth.1,2 In particular, research on biodegradable bioplastics using PLA, a biodegradable plastic derived from biomass, is rapidly increasing. However, although PLA has excellent mechanical properties, it has the disadvantages of low impact resistance and poor dimensional stability at high temperatures. To solve these problems, efforts have been made to add various elastomer additives, and research on composites with PBAT as an alternative is being conducted. However, the desired properties are not achieved due to the insufficient compatibility of PLA/PBAT. Therefore, in this study, various styrene-co-GMA epoxidized copolymers with different epoxy contents and molecular weights were synthesized as PLA/PBAT compatibilizers. In addition, by adding 1 phr of the synthesized compatibilizer to the PLA/PBAT matrix and inducing a reaction with the epoxy group contained in the compatibilizer, a biodegradable PLA/PBAT/compatibilizer (80/20/1) composite was manufactured with impact properties that were twice improved compared to before addition of the PLA/PBAT 80/20 blend. Furthermore, the biodegradable PLA/PBAT composite with excellent impact properties manufactured in this study is expected to be a future eco-friendly composite material that can lead the carbon neutral policy and drive the bioplastic material industry necessary for the 4th industrial revolution.

Fibrous membranes for the pollutant's filtration have recently been of great interest. However, the high and rapid filter pollutant fouling caused their limited use, which could be solved by the active action of photocatalytic particles on their surface. This work introduces novel methodologies for preparing polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes enhanced with graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) particles, resulting in materials with superior photocatalytic properties under visible light. These membranes have demonstrated exceptional performance in degrading phenol, a model pollutant, offering a promising solution for water purification and pollutant removal applications.
A key highlight of this work is the systematic exploration of three preparation techniques - electrospinning, thermal treatment, and chemical activation - to incorporate g-C₃N₄ particles into PVDF membranes. Among these, the chemical activation method emerged as the most effective, achieving the highest photocatalytic activity. This method facilitates the formation of covalent bonds between g-C₃N₄ and PVDF, ensuring enhanced durability and reusability without significant degradation of the polymeric matrix. Furthermore, the study introduces a novel, non-destructive method to quantify the concentration of g-C₃N₄ particles in the membranes using their photoluminescence properties.