Applied Science and Engineering Progress

CNC Milling and CO2 Laser Engraving of Mixing Microchannels in Microfluidic Devices

Zachary Ngo — 2026-04-06

Microfluidic devices play a crucial role in biomedical research, chemical analysis, and diagnostics, with fabrication optimization striking a balance between precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Currently, there is a need to determine the most suitable fabrication technique for accuracy, efficiency, and material compatibility. This study compared computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines and CO₂ laser engraving machines by investigating their strengths and weaknesses as microfluidic device fabrication techniques. Microfluidic devices were designed with mixing microchannels of 1.0 mm width and depth using Autodesk Fusion. Autodesk Fusion was further utilized to configure the drilling and tracing processes of the milling operation, while RDWorks V8 was utilized for laser setup. Three materials with varying chemical resistances, optical properties, mechanical strengths, fabrication feasibility, and cost were selected. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is cost-effective and optically transparent, polycarbonate offers mechanical robustness and ease of processing, and borosilicate glass possesses outstanding chemical resistance, mechanical strengths, and optical properties. Testing was accomplished through microscopic imaging and colorimetric analysis through a manual pump with a constant downward mass of 461 g. Microchannel precision and fluid flow characteristics determined the effectiveness of each fabrication technique. Based on the food coloring-water mixture mixing capabilities of the manufactured chips, CNC milling presents a significant advantage over laser engraving in channel fabrication due to its ability to produce more consistent microchannels and smoother surfaces. In turn, this results in enhanced fluid flow and mixing efficiency. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) displays the most ideal and cost-effective results through microscopic visualizations and color analysis, with a CNC-milled device being accomplished in 5 min with an overall setup time of approximately 20 min. Thus, making the combination an excellent choice for mass production. This study highlights the significance of utilizing the optimal fabrication technique for microfluidic devices to strike a balance between precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness and yield a device that is viable for a broad range of applications from biomedical to chemical fields.

Efficient Multi-Task Learning in Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output Systems Integrated Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing Systems: A Hybrid Amalgamated Convolutional Neural Network-Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Approach

Krishnasamy Vijaipriya — 2026-04-06

Therefore, in today’s wireless communication systems and in particular, the Multi-User-Multiple Input Multiple Output-Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (MU-MIMO-OFDM) systems, channel estimation, the detection, and mitigation of the attack are important to ensure the safe operation of a system. Current approaches use distinct procedures for completing these jobs, and this causes high computational expenses, longer response times, and decreased performance of the system. In this work, a multi-task learning (MTL) framework is introduced to develop a new end-to-end deep learning solution of an Amalgamated Convolutional Neural Network (ACNN) for spatial feature extraction and a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) for temporal attack detection. The proposed system is effective in handling these tasks together because that would mean maximum efficiency and accuracy. To enhance the model’s efficiency, a Green Anaconda Optimization (GAO) algorithm is used to solve the multi-task loss function and enhance convergence rate and solution quality. The presented GAO approach provides a good balance between channel estimation, attack detection, and mitigation since GAO adapts the model parameters in the training process. Most of the current methods give slow convergence rates, and high computational costs, and are not very suitable for scale-up, especially in dynamic systems. These limitations make them unadoptable for real-time operations and analysis. The challenges described above are addressed by the proposed hybrid model with GAO, which is therefore ideal for modern secure wireless communication systems due to the reduced computational overhead and faster response time. The model reaches a first-level accuracy of 99% and costs 70 GFLOPs and 35 ms latency.

Enhanced Broad-Spectrum Protection Against High-Energy Visible Light Using Co-Doped Ag2O and ZnO–TiO2 Nanocomposites

Wittawat Ratanathavorn — 2026-04-06

An Ag₂O-Zn/TiO₂ (AZT) nanocomposite was developed to overcome the limitations of conventional ZnO- and TiO₂-based sunscreens, which offer UV protection but lack efficacy against high-energy visible (HEV) light. The nanocomposite was synthesized using a sol–gel co–doping method, incorporating Ag₂O to enhance photocatalytic activity and enable plasmonic absorption in the HEV range. Its morphological structure and elemental composition were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to assess the crystalline structure, and optical properties were evaluated using a UV–visible spectrophotometer. The nanocomposite exhibited crystallite sizes ranging from 28.6 to 33.2 nm, with a predominant rutile phase. Optical properties revealed an energy bandgap ranging from 2.16 to 3.02 eV and broad-spectrum absorption extending into the HEV region (417–574 nm). The incorporation of Ag₂O improved HEV attenuation compared to conventional ZnO and TiO₂. In vitro SPF testing showed that Ag₂O-Zn/TiO₂ provided moderate UV protection, with values comparable to conventional TiO₂. Notably, it offered a more balanced UVA/UVB protection profile, highlighting its potential as an effective broad-spectrum UV filter.

Enhanced Crystallinity, Bandgap Modulation, and Charge Carrier Dynamics in Thermally Decomposed ZnxNi(1-x)Fe2O4

Phongsaphat Rangdee — 2026-04-06

This study investigates the crystallographic and electronic modifications induced by zinc doping in NiFe₂O₄ ferrites, Zn_xNi_(1-x)Fe₂O₄, which are synthesized through a sustainable thermal decomposition. Although NiFe₂O₄ is extensively studied for optoelectronic and catalytic applications, its performance is limited by defect-related charge recombination and conductivity. Here, the crystallographic and electronic properties are tailored through controlled Zn incorporation. By varying the zinc concentrations from x = 0 to 0.09, the samples were examined for their structural, optical, and charge transport behaviors using X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and impedance analysis. At x = 0.03, crystallinity is enhanced, defect density is minimized, and charge carrier mobility is significantly improved. The bandgap narrowed from 1.62 eV (undoped) to 1.43 eV (x = 0.07), and resistance dropped from 1.507 × 10⁵ Ω to 0.378 × 10⁵ Ω, indicating better charge transportation. The results suggest that moderate Zn doping modifies the cation distribution and promotes defect stabilization, enabling enhanced visible-light absorption and improved electrical behavior. This study confirms the benefits of defect engineering through thermal decomposition, further work is necessary to evaluate long-term stability, magnetic properties, and integration for specific applications. Challenges still exist in optimizing multi-dopant systems for device-scale deployment.

Green Synthesis of Biomass-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots from Syzygium aromaticum via Carbonization-Assisted Ultrasonication for a Selective Colorimetric Sensor of Ag⁺ in Environmental Waters

Said Ali Akbar — 2026-04-06

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were successfully synthesized from Syzygium aromaticum biomass using a carbonization-assisted ultrasonication approach. The resulting SA-CQDs exhibited a particle size of 3.31 nm, a quantum yield of 12.61%, and strong blue emission at 440 nm under 350 nm excitation. Spectroscopic analysis (FTIR, XPS, Raman) confirmed abundant oxygen- and nitrogen-containing functional groups, contributing to excellent aqueous dispersibility and optical responsiveness. The CQDs demonstrated high selectivity and sensitivity toward Ag⁺ ions, with a distinct color change and an absorbance peak at 431 nm. A linear response was obtained in the 10–500 µM range (R² = 0.95579) with a low detection limit of 0.103 µM. Stability assessments revealed excellent fluorescence and absorbance retention across a broad range of pH, temperature, storage time, and light exposure. Recovery tests in tap and underground water showed 96.94–100.08% with RSD < 1%. This study supports the application of SA-CQDs as a green, cost-effective, and sensitive colorimetric probe for Ag⁺ detection.

High Strength Bio-Foams of Cassava Starch/Wheat Gluten Blends by Microwave Processing

Supattra Klayya — 2026-04-06

Environmental issues have a high impact on the selection of materials for packaging. Advanced research in biodegradable materials has shown that starch-based foams could be an effective replacement for petroleum-based polystyrene foam. However, pure starch (ST) foam has some disadvantages, including low water resistance and poor mechanical properties. In this study, wheat gluten (WG) protein was added to starch-based foams, and the foam structure was formed using microwave processing to improve those properties. This was the first report on a novel bio-foam made from ST/WG blend utilizing a rapid and energy-efficient microwave foaming process that resulted in improved foam structure and high strength. The effect of foam blending ratios (ST100, ST95/WG5, ST90/WG10, ST80/WG20, and ST70/WG30 by weight) were studied. It was found that due to WG's nucleating effect, the cellular microstructure of the ST/WG blend foams was denser with smaller cell size and thicker cell walls than the pure ST foam. Mechanical properties of the foams compared by the flexural strength and modulus have shown that increasing the amount of WG significantly enhanced the foam's properties. Based on the findings of this study, ST90/WG10 exhibited a notably high flexural strength and modulus of 9.5 MPa and 412.8 MPa, respectively, which were more than 9 times stronger than expanded polystyrene foam. Furthermore, the addition of WG protein improved the water resistance of the blend foams. This study demonstrates that the new bio-foam based on ST and WG (as a blending component), which can be quickly produced by microwave heating, is a very promising alternative for high strength, good water resistance, and eco-friendly foam packaging applications.

Impact of Die Exit Temperature on the Crystalline Orientation and Performance of Polypropylene Battery Separators

Panalee Kerdthong — 2026-04-06

Lithium-ion battery separators play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and safety of modern energy storage systems. The melt-stretching method is commonly used for polypropylene battery separator fabrication, with research extensively exploring how extrusion parameters influence the final product's structure and properties. However, the specific impact of die exit temperature on separator quality remains largely unexamined. This study investigates the effect of die exit temperature during the dry process on the performance of polypropylene microporous membranes used as battery separators. Separators were produced using a co-rotational twin-screw extruder at various die exit temperatures (215–245 °C) and characterized for their crystalline orientation, porosity, and battery performance. Polarized FTIR and 2D-WAXS analyses revealed that lower die exit temperatures improve crystalline orientation, resulting in more uniform pore structures. At 215 °C, the separators exhibited superior electrolyte uptake (109.4%) and better pore morphology. The coin cell tests revealed that separators fabricated at 215 °C achieved higher charge storage capacity (181.45 mAh) and greater efficiency compared to those produced at elevated temperatures. These findings underscore the critical role of optimizing die exit temperature in the production of high-performance battery separators.v

Mechanical Characterization of Cu-Al-based Shape Memory Alloys: Influence of Mn, Be and Fe on Tensile Strength, Yield Stress, Yield Strain, Ductility and Hardness

Naresh Hanumantharayappa — 2026-04-06

The pursuit of cost-effective and robust Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) continues to expand, especially for applications in adaptive and smart structural systems, while Ni-Ti-based SMAs remain prevalent due to their superior pseudoelasticity and longevity. However, the limitations of NiTi alloys, including the high processing costs and fabrication difficulties, prompt the exploration of alternatives. This study investigates Cu-Al-based SMAs alloyed with Mn, Be, and Fe as cost-effective alternatives to NiTi systems. In the present work, Cu-Al-based alloy wires with Mn, Be, and Fe were betatized at 850 °C and water-quenched to achieve martensitic structures, followed by evaluation of tensile strength, yield behavior, ductility, and hardness. Mn addition significantly enhanced tensile strength (up to 425 MPa), while Be and Fe improved ductility through grain refinement. Hardness increased with Mn due to solid solution strengthening. Thus, the current work provides a comparative analysis of Cu-Al-Mn, Cu-Al-Be-Mn, and Cu-Al-Fe-Mn alloys, linking alloying strategies to microstructural evolution and mechanical performance, demonstrating their potential for advanced engineering applications.

On Designing New Mixed Moving Average – Extended EWMA Control Chart Based on Sign Statistic

Khanittha Talordphop — 2026-04-06

The limitations of normalcy assumptions are accommodated by a nonparametric control chart, which is user-friendly and robust. This study introduced a moving average control chart integrated with an extended exponentially weighted moving average control chart utilizing sign statistics, namely MA-EEWMA Sign. We analyzed the study for assessing the efficacy of a monitoring strategy using the average run lengths through Monte Carlo simulation. Performance comparison index (PCI), extra quadratic loss (EQL), especially overall performance are still used to evaluate the usefulness of control charts. Overall, the findings reveal that the provided chart remains the best control chart for finding moderate to minor shifts from normally distributed to skewed distribution. The effectiveness was evaluated using the following charts: moving average, exponentially weighted moving average, extended exponentially weighted moving average, and a hybrid of the latter two. The research findings were confirmed when the suggested control chart was adjusted for the actual dataset.

Optimization of CO2 Gas Flow rate and Distributor Holes Number for CO2 Capture

Nuryoto Nuryoto — 2026-04-06

The chemical reaction between CO₂ and Ca(OH)₂ to produce precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) occurs optimally when effective interaction between the two reactants takes place. The interaction between reactants will affect the reaction rate and conversion of reactants (CO₂ and Ca(OH)₂) into the PCC products. Among the parameters that influence the interaction of CO₂ gas with the Ca(OH)₂solution are the CO₂ gas flow rate and the numbers of CO₂ gas distributor holes. Therefore, this study aims to analyze and understand the phenomena involved, specifically how variations in CO₂ flow rate and the numbers of distributor holes affect the performance of CO₂ capture based on the resulting precipitated calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). The research was conducted using a semi-batch reactor, stirring speed of 400 rpm, hydrostatic pressure of 9.8 kPa, CO₂ gas flow rate of 2–5 liters per minute (lpm), and the numbers of distributor holes ranging from 3 to 9. The results of the observation showed that the effect of increasing the gas flow rate and the numbers of distributor holes to enhance the interaction between reactants in the reaction system has its optimal condition. The optimal condition was obtained at a CO₂ gas flow rate of 3 lpm and the number of 6 holes, with a resulting PCC (CaCO₃) product of 39.02 grams.

Performance of Green Microalgae-Activated Sludge and Diatom-Activated Sludge Co-Cultures in Kitchen Wastewater Treatment: Nutrient Removal Efficiency and Cellular Fatty Acid Profiling

Keerthi Katam — 2026-04-06

Kitchen wastewater, characterized by elevated levels of organic matter and nutrients, requires efficient treatment solutions to mitigate its environmental impact. Conventional treatment methods are often energy-intensive and inefficient for decentralized or small-scale applications. This study investigates the sustainable treatment of kitchen wastewater by assessing nutrient removal efficiency and fatty acid profile in two different co-culture systems: System A (green microalga and activated sludge) and System B (diatom and activated sludge). The reactors were operated in semi-continuous mode at five distinct solid retention times (SRTs) (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days), with monitoring of key parameters including dissolved organic carbon, total nitrogen, and phosphates. The biomass obtained from both systems was analyzed for fatty acid composition after treatment. The removal of carbon and nitrogen was found to be comparable in the two setups. Chlorophyll concentration increased with increasing SRT in these co-cultures. At 10 days of SRT, the average chlorophyll concentration in System A was 6.5 mg/L, while in System B it was 4.9 mg/L. System A generated significantly greater proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids across several SRTs in comparison to System B. The differences in fatty acid composition make System A more suitable for colder climates, where biodiesel must maintain adequate fluidity, while System B produces biodiesel with superior oxidative stability. This work establishes the feasibility of employing tailored algae-activated sludge co-cultures for integrated wastewater treatment and biodiesel production, demonstrating a sustainable methodology for simultaneous resource recovery and development of application-specific biofuels according to their fatty acid profiles.

Reduction of Carbonaceous and Nitrogenous Disinfection Byproduct Precursors from Coagulated/Filtered Algae-laden Water: Comparison of Vacuum Ultraviolet and Ultraviolet Processes with and without Persulfate Activation

Somphong Soontharo — 2026-04-06

This study investigated reductions in carbonaceous and nitrogenous disinfection byproduct (DBP) precursors in algae-laden water using vacuum ultraviolet (VUV), VUV with persulfate (PS) (VUV/PS), ultraviolet (UV), and UV with PS (UV/PS) processes. The effect of PS doses (5 and 50 mg/L) on dissolved organic matter (DOM) removal was evaluated. DOM (as the DBP precursor) was measured using dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved organic nitrogen (DON), and UV absorbance at 254 nm, as well as characterized by fluorescence excitation–emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy. The results showed that the VUV/PS (PS dose of 50 mg/L) process was the most effective, removing 30%–46% DOC and 27% DON in 60 min. The EEM results revealed that the VUV/PS process reduced all fluorophores—including humic-like, fulvic-like, tyrosine protein-like, and tryptophan protein-like—by more than 88%. The DOC removal and fluorescence loss corresponded with the trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) reductions. Chloroform and dichloroacetonitrile were the predominant species among THMFP and haloacetonitrile formation potential (HANFP), respectively. However, brominated DBPs, which are known to be more toxic than chlorinated DBPs, were also detected. These processes achieved greater THMFP reductions compared to the UV and UV/PS processes. Overall, the VUV and VUV/PS processes show potential for future application in enhancing the treatment of algae-laden water.

Sacrificial-Layer Technique Fabrication and Characterization of Membrane Pneumatic Actuators for Flow Control in Microfluidics – Reproducibility Assessment

Siwapol Charykaew — 2026-04-06

Ensuring the fabrication reproducibility of pneumatic actuators for a flow control in microfluidics is essential for their practical application. The actuator consists of a two-layered structure, including a control layer and a thin membrane. This study introduces a novel fabrication method that achieves uniform Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane thickness and simplifies production using a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sacrificial layer and corona discharge bonding. Actuators with membrane diameters of 1,500, 2,000, and 2,500 µm were successfully fabricated and analyzed. Experimental results indicate that membrane deflection increases with both applied pressure and membrane size. In this work, displacement variability was assessed to evaluate reproducibility. The investigation revealed consistent performance for actuators with membranes larger than 2,000 µm, while smaller membranes exhibited greater deviation, suggesting the need for further process optimization. Overall, the fabricated microactuators demonstrate strong potential for reliable flow control in microfluidic systems.

Solid-State Synthesis of Green Mussels (Perna viridis)-Derived Hydroxyapatite and Perovskite Nanocomposite for the Photo-catalytic Degradation of Acetaminophen

Keren Keziah Flores Tangarorang — 2026-04-06

Acetaminophen (ACT) emerged as the second most prevalent pharmaceutical contaminant in Philippine waters and poses environmental risks due to overuse. This study investigates the efficacy of hydroxyapatite-calcium titanate (HAp-CaTiO₃) nanocomposite derived from waste Perna viridis (green mussel) shells for the photocatalytic degradation of ACT. HAp and CaTiO₃ were prepared via coprecipitation and solid-state methods, respectively, and combined into a nanocomposite. The photocatalysts were characterized using SEM-EDX, XRD, UV-Vis and FTIR. Characterization confirmed the formation of a heterojunction with nanostructures and functional groups retained. The nanocomposite achieved a 96.30% ACT degradation efficiency. This approach highlights the potential of waste-derived materials for sustainable environmental remediation.

Sustainable MWCNT and TiO2 Nanofluids for CO2 Absorption and Their Stability: An Experimental Study

Basavaraj Devakki — 2026-04-06

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions contribute significantly to global warming. To mitigate this issue, various technologies are being explored for CO₂ capture and storage. One such method involves direct contact absorption using nanofluids. In this research, the preparation of sustainable MWCNT and TiO₂ nanofluids, their stability and usage of these nanofluids for CO₂ absorption application have been discussed. Sustainable nanofluids are the materials widely used in the heat and mass transfer and energy storage applications, etc., but it is important to have higher stability by following the right approach of preparation of nanofluids. CO₂ absorption performance of MWCNT and TiO₂ nanofluids at 0.03, 0.06, 0.09 and 0.12 wt% concentrations was evaluated as compared to basefluid DI water and tested at initial pressures of 5, 7.5 and 10 bar inside the absorption cell. The stability of the nanofluids was assessed using Zeta Potential and UV-spectroscopy. Results showed that increasing the concentration of nanofluids generally enhanced CO₂ absorption capacity, but there was an optimal concentration beyond which the trend reversed. For the given conditions, 0.03 wt% of MWCNT and 0.09 wt% of TiO₂ nanofluids exhibited the highest CO₂ absorption capacity. As compared to basefluid DI water, MWCNT nanofluid at 0.03 wt% concentration improved CO₂ absorption by 22.54%, 30.16%, and 34.35% at 5, 7.5, and 10 bar, respectively. Similarly, TiO₂ nanofluid at 0.09 wt% concentration increased CO₂ absorption by 17.84%, 23.9%, and 25.85% at the same pressures. The enhanced CO₂ absorption performance of the nanofluids is attributed to micro-convection and shuttle effects caused by the nanoparticles. The high negative Zeta Potential values (-39.5 mV for MWCNT and -42.8 mV for TiO₂) indicated excellent stability of the nanofluids. The nanofluids demonstrated good stability, maintaining their properties even after four weeks of preparation.

The Effect of Eggshell Waste Powder on the Material Properties of the Banana Pulp Papers

Kessaraporn Wathanyu — 2026-04-06

Recycling agricultural and food wastes provides a sustainable approach to paper production. This study investigated banana pulp papers with the addition of 10–20 wt.% of eggshell waste powder (ESWP) using fresh and dried banana stems. The addition of ESWP increased paper thickness and weight, reduced moisture content, and enabled rapid water absorption. However, tensile strength and tear index decreased with higher ESWP content due to increased brittleness and the presence of pores and voids. Papers from dried banana stems tended to exhibit higher strength, faster water absorption, and greater moisture retention than those from fresh stems, likely reflecting the effect of thin, continuous fibers in retaining pulp and ESWP. These results demonstrate the potential of using waste to produce environmentally friendly paper products.

The Optimization of Extrusion Parameters and Rice Flour Blends in Ready-to-Eat Extruded Thai Rice Snacks

Ratchanee Charoen — 2026-04-06

The ready-to-eat snack products from traditional Thai’s rice flour (Khao bahn nah 432: KB432) and corn grits were developed using a single screw extruder. In this study, the ratio between rice flour and corn grits was measured at three different levels (50:50, 60:40 and 70:30). On the viscosity profile of mixed flour, one hundred percent of rice flour formed gel and showed the highest viscosity, while increasing the amount of corn grits resulted in decreased viscosity. In the heat-cool cycle, the final viscosity of 100% rice flour was the highest and that of 50% rice flour showed the lowest. For extrusion parameters, the die temperatures were varied at 150, 160 and 170 ℃. The results showed that an increasing amount of rice flour and die temperature caused a decrease in the texture’s puffiness, density and expansion rate, while the redness (a*) color of the product was increased. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extrusion conditions of snack production. The result indicated that the optimum ratio between rice flour: corn grits was 50:50, the optimal temperature at the die section was 150 ℃ to produce the ready-to-eat extruded Thai rice snack, a new alternative snack product from rice flour.

Toward Sustainable Composites: Comparative Performance of Natural and Synthetic Fibers under Low-Velocity Impact

Ravi Sevak — 2026-04-06

This research presents a novel computational–experimental framework for comparing synthetic and natural fibers in low-velocity impact scenarios to advance environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic composites. Uniquely, microwave-assisted compression-molded ramie/HDPE composites were fabricated and experimentally tested to validate Mori–Tanaka predictions of elastic modulus, achieving close agreement before transferring the homogenized properties to finite element impact simulations. The study examines synthetic fibers such as Kevlar, carbon fiber, and S-glass alongside natural fibers including hemp, flax, ramie, and jute, all within a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) matrix, across fiber mass fractions of 10–30%. Results highlight the promise of natural fibers, particularly ramie, which showe d a consistent rise in force reaction from 0.25 kN at 10% to 2.0 kN at 30%, positioning it as a strong candidate for reinforcement, stiffness, and thermal stability. Among synthetics, carbon fiber maintained steady performance with a force reaction of 0.45 kN at 10–20% and 0.75 kN at 30%, while also exhibiting the least deformation at higher fractions, underscoring its reliability for high-performance applications. These findings confirm the feasibility of integrating natural fibers into composite materials as sustainable substitutes, while providing a balanced benchmark against established synthetic fibers. The proposed validated multiscale methodology opens new directions for eco-conscious material design in automotive, construction, and related industries.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Greener Future for Aviation Industry

Bhushan S. Shrirame — 2026-04-06

A Perspective on Carbon Footprints and Carbon Reduction in Various Sectors

Pawinee Boonyasopon — 2026-04-06

The escalating threat of climate change, driven largely by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, has intensified global attention on carbon footprint analysis and reduction strategies. This review presents a multidisciplinary analysis of the sources, types and sector-specific impacts of greenhouse gas emissions, focusing on energy, transportation, industrial business, agriculture, buildings and waste management. It explores the evolving concept of the carbon footprint and evaluates strategies for its reduction through technological innovations, behavioral change and policy mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on emerging solutions such as clean energy systems, low carbon infrastructure, carbon capture and storage and circular economy practices. By integrating multidisciplinary insights, the paper identifies challenges, opportunities and future directions for achieving substantial carbon mitigation and supporting the transition toward low carbon and climate resilient systems.

From Decay to Design: 90 Years of Wood–Fungi Bioengineering Eco-Innovation

Djamil BenGhida — 2026-04-06

This study revisits mykoholz (myco-wood), a mid-20th-century East German innovation that bio-modified solid wood through controlled white-rot fungal decay, positioning it as a precursor to modern mycelium-based composites (MBCs). Based on patents, technical literature in German and English, a state-produced documentary, and a declassified U.S. CIA intelligence report, the fabrication methods and applications of mykoholz are reconstructed. The process reduced hardwood density by 75–90% while enhancing porosity, impregnation capacity, and moldability, all without synthetic additives or high energy input. During the 1950s, the CIA even monitored the technology, underscoring its perceived strategic value. Industrial production ceased by 1965 due to challenges of reproducibility and limited automation, yet the underlying principles anticipated current advances in selective delignification, AI-assisted bio-fabrication, and climate-controlled incubation. A comparison with modern MBCs reveals complementary paradigms: whereas mykoholz reconfigured solid hardwood at the cellular level, contemporary MBCs rely on moldable composites grown from lignocellulosic waste. This diachronic analysis highlights mykoholz as an early example of circular, low-energy bioengineering and suggests that historic fungal modification techniques could inform the development of hybrid, scalable, and eco-compatible material systems.

Postharvest Pathogens in Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa): Potential of Plasma-Activated Water and Micro-Nano Bubbles for Control – A Review

Rodalisa Fello Quierre — 2026-04-06

Pathogen contamination of strawberries is a significant concern, as it leads to yield losses and a decrease in consumer acceptance. The quality and safety of strawberries are particularly vulnerable to fungal and bacterial pathogens, which can affect fruits during cultivation, transportation, and storage. Among the primary fungal pathogens responsible for their quality deterioration are Botrytis cinerea, Rhizopus spp., Colletotrichum spp., and Penicillium spp. In addition, strawberries are also vulnerable to bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus spp. Over the past few decades, researchers have developed several control methods to improve their quality and ensure safe consumption. These include chemical, physical, and biological controls. However, the lack of effective pathogen inactivation during postharvest remains a challenge. Plasma-activated water (PAW), which is rich in reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), has demonstrated pathogen inactivation abilities. Similarly, the properties of micro-nano bubbles (MNBs), such as a large specific surface area, a long lifetime in aqueous solutions, oxidizing ability, and reduction of surface tension, have been studied for disinfection applications. Therefore, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the morphological and pathogenic variability of the common fungal and bacterial pathogens in strawberries. Furthermore, it highlights the p athogen-inactivating ability of PAW and MNBs as a potential postharvest pathogen control measure, particularly in ensuring optimal quality and extending the shelf life of strawberries.