Applied Chemical Engineering (ACE) is an international open-access academic journal dedicated to publishing highly professional research in all fields related to chemical engineering. All manuscripts are subjected to a rigorous double-blind peer review process, to ensure quality and originality. We are interested inthe original research discoveries. This journal also features a wide range of research in ancillary areas relevant to chemistry. ACE publishes original research articles, review articles, editorials, case reports, letters, brief commentaries, perspectives, methods, etc. The research topics of ACE include but are not limited to: 1. Analytical Chemistry 2. Chemical Engineering 3. Materials chemistry 4. Material synthesis 5. Catalysis 6. Process chemistry and technology 7. Quantum chemistry method 8. Environmental chemical engineering 9. Bio-energy, resources, pollution 10.Reaction kinetics 11. Nanotechnology and bioreactors 12. Surface, coating and film Starting from Volume 7, Issue 2 of 2024, Applied Chemical Engineering (ACE) will be published by Arts and Science Press Pte. Ltd. Please turn to the journal website for new submissions.
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Optimization of FDM process parameters using fuzzy AHP–TOPSIS for PLA-Based green composites
The global shift toward sustainable manufacturing has intensified interest in eco-friendly materials and optimized processing strategies for additive manufacturing technologies such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Polylactic acid (PLA)-based green composites have emerged as promising candidates due to their biodegradability, low environmental impact, and compatibility with FDM systems. However, the optimization of FDM process parameters for such composites remains a significant challenge due to the inherent trade-offs between mechanical performance, energy consumption, and material sustainability. This study addresses this gap by employing an integrated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework—Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy AHP) combined with Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS)—to identify optimal FDM parameter settings for PLA-based green composites. Key process parameters, including layer thickness, print speed, infill density, and nozzle temperature, are evaluated against performance criteria such as tensile strength, surface finish, material utilization, and energy efficiency. Literature reports suggest optimal ranges such as 0.1–0.2 mm for layer thickness, 40–60 mm/s for print speed, and 80–100% for infill density to enhance part strength and minimize waste. The Fuzzy AHP–TOPSIS approach enables robust decision-making under uncertainty, providing a sustainable design methodology aligned with SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This study establishes a foundational framework for future experimental validation and promotes informed parameter selection for sustainable, high-performance FDM manufacturing of PLA-based green composites.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hayjaa Mohaisen Mousa, Ala’a D. Noor, Haider Falih Shamikh Al-Saedi, Shahlaa Majid J., Jaber Hameed Hussain, Mohannad Mohammed, Israa Alhani, Baraa G. Alani http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Optimization of grinding and distillation parameters affecting yield and composition of essential oils from the hybrid Eucalyptus grandis × E. camaldulensis (clone 2414)
This study examines how grinding and distillation duration affect the yield and composition of essential oils (EOs) from the natural hybrid Eucalyptus grandis × E. camaldulensis (clone 2414) and its parental species. Hydrodistillation was performed for 2–4 h on ground and whole leaves. Grinding increased yield by 20–25 %, and the optimum extraction time was 3 h. Yields ranged from 1.5 % (E. grandis) to 2.3 % (E. camaldulensis), with 1,8-cineole (42–61 %) as the main constituent. The hybrid exhibited a stable and distinctive chemical profile rich in oxygenated monoterpenes, demonstrating its industrial potential. Leaves were subjected to hydrodistillation using a Clevenger type apparatus under two conditions: ground versus whole leaves, and varying distillation times (2, 3, and 4 hours). EO yields were calculated relative to dry leaf mass, and the chemical profile was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Results revealed that grinding significantly enhanced oil recovery, with ground leaves yielding up to 20–25% more oil compared to whole leaves. Distillation time strongly influenced EO output, with an optimal recovery observed at 3 hours; beyond this, additional distillation produced negligible increases. Overall yields ranged from 1.5% (E. grandis) to 2.1% (E. camaldulensis), while clone 2414 consistently displayed intermediate productivity (≈1.8%) that improved under optimized grinding and distillation conditions. GC–MS analysis confirmed 1,8 cineole as the dominant constituent (42–61%), accompanied by α-pinene, p-cymene, and limonene in variable proportions. Notably, the hybrid exhibited a distinctive chemical fingerprint enriched in oxygenated monoterpenes compared with its parents. These findings demonstrate that essential oil yield and composition are strongly influenced by both genetic background and processing variables. Clone 2414 consistently delivered stable and enhanced oil profiles under optimized conditions, highlighting its value as a versatile resource for industrial essential oil production.
Copyright (c) 2025 Safaa Abid, Badr Satrani, Magri Najib, Mohamed Ouajdi, Ayoub Souileh, Achraf Mabrouk, Farah Aabouch, Badr Eddine Kartah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sustainable Synthesis and Characterization of Wood-Fiber Reinforced PLA for Additive Manufacturing Applications
The rising demand for environmentally responsible manufacturing has intensified interest in biodegradable polymers for additive manufacturing (AM). Polylactic Acid (PLA), a bio-based thermoplastic, is widely utilized due to its renewability and ease of processing. However, its inherent brittleness, low thermal resistance, and limited mechanical strength restrict its suitability for structural or load-bearing applications. This study addresses these limitations by developing and characterizing wood fiber (WF)-reinforced PLA composites aimed at improving mechanical performance and sustainability in AM, particularly Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Although natural fiber-reinforced biopolymers have shown promise, prior research often neglects eco-friendly processing, cost-effective preparation, and systematic optimization of fiber content and printing conditions. To overcome these gaps, sustainable composite filaments were produced using solvent-free melt compounding and extrusion techniques. Standardized specimens were fabricated via FDM and subjected to tensile, flexural, and compressive testing to assess mechanical properties. A multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was further employed to optimize printing parameters, balancing strength, energy efficiency, and material utilization. Results demonstrate that PLA-WF composites exhibit significant property enhancements, with tensile and flexural strengths improving by ~18% and ~22%, respectively, compared to neat PLA. The addition of WF not only strengthens structural performance but also lowers cost and reduces environmental impact, while maintaining good printability and dimensional stability. These findings highlight the potential of PLA-WF composites as sustainable alternatives for functional AM components and align with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 9, SDG 12, SDG 13, and SDG 15.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hayjaa Mohaisen Mousa, Ahmed Abdullah Hussein, Abdullah H. Maad , Nibras Jamal, Fadhil M. Abid, Nour Sabah Kadhim Jaber Hameed Hussain , Muntadher Kadhum Sultan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis and Characterization of Some New Drug Derivatives containing thiadiazole, oxadiazole, and triazole rings, and studying their antibacterial activity
A series of new drug derivatives containing thiadiazole, oxadiazole, and triazole rings were successfully synthesized. In this study, the terminal carboxylic acid groups of cephalexin and 4-aminobenzoic acid were reacted with thiosemicarbazide and semicarbazide, respectively, in the presence of phosphorus oxychloride to create the thiadiazole and oxadiazole derivatives. Cephalexin and 4-aminobenzoic acid's terminal carboxylic acid group reacted with thiosemicarbazide to create triazole derivatives, which were then treated with sodium hydroxide.The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed using IR, ¹H NMR, and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity of these compounds was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus
Copyright (c) 2025 Muntadher A. Al-Saffar*, Shireen R. Rasool, Saba S. M. Al-Obaidy http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Efficient adsorption of drugs from aqueous solution using a activated carbon derived from Iraqi date pits
This research investigates the use of activated carbon from Iraqi date pits as a novel and sustainable adsorbent for removing three key pharmaceutical drugs: sulfanilamide, sulfisoxazole, and amoxicillin, from contaminated water. The study systematically evaluated crucial factors like equilibrium time, adsorbent dosage, pH, and temperature to optimize the drug removal process. To understand the underlying mechanisms, various adsorption isotherm models were tested, with the (Freundlich, Elovich and Timken) where values range between (0.931, 0.9359 and 0.8867) model proving to be the best fit. This suggests a multilayer adsorption process, where drug molecules form a single layer on the surface of the activated carbon. The investigation of thermodynamic parameters (∆G, ∆H, and ∆S) further confirmed that the adsorption process was spontaneous where values (-1036.74,-231.775and-534.019).In addition, kinetic studies demonstrated that the pseudo-second-order model provided the most accurate description of the adsorption process for all three drugs. This was supported by exceptionally high correlation coefficients (R2) = 0.9992 for sulfanilamide, 1 for sulfisoxazole, and 0.9995 for amoxicillin. In conclusion, the findings strongly affirm that activated carbon derived from Iraqi date pits is a highly promising, cost-effective, and sustainable adsorbent for treating water contaminated with pharmaceuticals. This work paves the way for the development of new, environmentally friendly materials for water purification.
Copyright (c) 2025 Noor Mohammed Khadum*, lekaa Hussein Khadum http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Lithium drop CuO composites synthesis and applications in adsorption.
The co-precipitation method was used to synthesize lithium-doped copper oxide nanocomposites. Several techniques analyze these materials. X-ray diffraction was used to assess the crystal structure and nanoscale dimensions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) determined the elemental composition. The study also examined the effectiveness of the CuO-LiO nanocomposite in adsorbing blue crystalline dye from an aqueous solution. Adsorption was tested using UV-Vis spectroscopy with an equilibrium time of 30 min and a surface weight of 0.015 g. Results showed that the adsorption percentage ranged from 19.5% to 48% at temperatures between 298 and 323 K. The thermodynamic functions ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS were calculated to determine the effect of temperature, revealing an endothermic adsorption process.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nuha Abdul-Saheb Ridha, Noor Mustafa Kamal, Ahmed Neamah Thamer Al-Yasiri, Shaymaa Hamzah Daylee http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Various active methods to augment the yield of solar still: A mini review
Solar still (SS) is a cheap and easy method for producing pure water from saline or brackish water. Therefore, the SS is not a popular residential water supply. The present review shows various active methods for SS coupled with a flat plate collector (FPC), evacuated tubes (ET), and parabolic trough (PT) to augment the yield. It also shows that a table of various researchers works to enhance the yield owing to the hot water supply to the basin. Active methods using SS are effective in improving yield. Finally, future work on different active methods should be conducted for further research on SS.
Copyright (c) 2025 Choon Kit Chan*, Rajashree Bokhare, Gaurav kumar, Richa Rani, Sandeep Kumar, Ghanshyam G Tejani, Feroz Shaik, Sujeet Kumar, Roshan Singh http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A novel hybrid reforming reactor for enhanced CO₂ conversion and hydrogen production: A CFD analysis
The use of hydrogen as an energy carrier has gained significant attention due to its environmentally friendly characteristics. Among various production methods, steam reforming of natural gas (CH₄) remains the most cost-effective and widely adopted technique. To enhance the efficiency and carbon utilization of this process, a novel hybrid steam and dry reforming reactor has been proposed, which utilizes the CO₂ produced from steam reforming within a dry reforming zone. In this study, a two-dimensional axisymmetric hybrid catalytic membrane reactor (CMR) model was developed for the production of pure hydrogen from natural gas, employing a Pd–Ru metallic membrane and a carbonate dual-phase membrane, integrated with Ni/Al₂O₃ and Rh/Al₂O₃ catalysts. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach was employed to investigate the reactor’s performance in terms of methane conversion and hydrogen production under various operating conditions. These include reaction temperatures of 700, 800, 900, and 1000 K, a gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 1000 h⁻¹, and a sweep gas Reynolds number (Re) of 100. Simulation results revealed that the CMR achieved a high hydrogen permeation rate on the permeate (tube) side, along with a maximum CH₄ conversion of approximately 99.9% at 1000 K on the retentate side within the steam reforming zone. Furthermore, the reactor demonstrated effective syngas production with near-complete CO₂ reduction on the dry reforming side, where CO₂ concentrations at the reactor outlet approached zero at 1000 K. These findings highlight the promising potential of the hybrid combined membrane reactor (CMR) system for efficient hydrogen production and near-complete carbon utilization.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ali Khalid Mohsen*, Tahseen A. Al-Hattab http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Obtaining a new type of polymer materials based on recycled polyethylene waste, sulfur, and melamine
This study investigates the valorization of polyethylene household waste through chemical modification to develop environmentally sustainable composite materials. Secondary polyethylene (PE) was treated with elemental sulfur and melamine as chemical modifiers to enhance its properties. The modified PE was characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and other analytical methods, in accordance with ISO standards. Physical and mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, elongation at break, and hardness, were systematically evaluated to assess the performance of the resulting composites. The integration of melamine and chemically modified sulfur into secondary PE yielded materials with improved mechanical robustness and functional characteristics suitable for various industrial and consumer applications. This approach demonstrates an effective strategy for reducing polyethylene waste by converting it into value-added, functional composites, thereby promoting ecological sustainability and waste minimization. The findings underscore the potential of chemically modified secondary polyethylene as a viable resource for sustainable material development, contributing to environmental conservation and waste management efforts. Overall, this methodology offers a promising route for the reutilization of polyethylene household waste, aligning with principles of circular economy and ecological responsibility.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shakhnoza Mamatova, Mingnikul Kurbanov, Abduakhad Kodirov, Guzal Davronova, Matluba Safarova, Lobar Bozorova, Guzal Rakhmatova, Umida Shabarova, Anora Jumayeva, Rano Toshkodirova, Yakibova Dilafruz, Dilbar Atakulova, Jasur Farmonov, Mohamed Rifky, Murodjon Samadiy, Bakhodir Abdullayev http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Surface metamorphosis in FDM-Printed PLA and PLA+WF: A microstructural and analytical chemistry approach
The integration of bio-based materials in additive manufacturing is a key strategy in aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13), particularly for fostering sustainable urban infrastructure and reducing environmental impact. This study investigates the surface metamorphosis of fused deposition modeling (FDM)-printed polylactic acid (PLA) and PLA reinforced with wood fibers (PLA+WF), using a combined microstructural and analytical chemistry approach to enhance surface functionality. Employing scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and surface profilometry, we characterized the morphological and chemical transformations induced by post-processing treatments such as controlled thermal annealing and solvent vapor exposure. The PLA+WF composites exhibited a 38% reduction in surface roughness (Ra) and a 22% increase in hydrophilicity compared to untreated PLA, facilitating better coating adhesion and reduced microbial accumulation. FTIR analysis confirmed the retention of key ester and cellulose functional groups post-treatment, ensuring material integrity. Moreover, thermal post-treatment improved the crystallinity index by 18% in PLA and 27% in PLA+WF, suggesting enhanced mechanical stability. These findings present a viable pathway for producing high-performance, bio-based components with improved surface characteristics, directly contributing to the development of sustainable, low-impact technologies in urban applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sanan Thaer Abdalwahab, Sara salam Ali, Abdullah H. Maad, Majeed M. Abid, Sadi Shirshab, Wasam Naji, Reem Hamdan Khaddour, Duha Abed Almuhssen Muzahim Alzubaidy http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Experimental investigation of a hybrid compound parabolic collector integrated with flow through-type evacuated tube collector under hot and humid conditions in India
This study offers an experimental analysis of a hybrid solar thermal collector that is best suited for the summer climate in Vadodara, Gujarat, India. It combines a Compound Parabolic Collector (CPC) with a flow-through type Evacuated Tube Collector (ETC). Three types of reflector materials were examined: polished aluminum, glass mirror, and acrylic mirror. The control was an independent ETC unit. Every configuration ran at a flow rate of 1.0 L/min. The temperature outside reached 43°C during the tests, and the maximum solar intensity was 1050 W/m². The aluminum CPC-ETC system demonstrated superior performance, achieving 82°C outlet temperature compared to 63°C for the ETC-only baseline - representing a 30% improvement. Daily heat gain increased by 99% from 42.3 MJ/day (ETC-only) to 84.2 MJ/day (aluminum CPC-ETC). The aluminum reflector configuration achieved an average thermal efficiency of 66% compared to 50% for the standalone ETC system, demonstrating a 32% relative improvement. The findings show that under tropical summer conditions, CPC-ETC systems have an increased thermal potential.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Ishrar Jiva, Mohsin J. Dadi, Vijayalaxmi V B, Amit Manubhai Patel, Jeetendra Dhamone, Choon Kit Chan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AI Applications in Tailings and Waste Management: Improving Safety, Recycling, and Water Utilization
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming tailings and waste management in the mining sector by improving safety, enhancing recycling efficiency, and optimizing water utilization. Traditional monitoring and waste handling approaches often lack scalability, real-time responsiveness, and predictive accuracy, limiting their effectiveness in preventing environmental and operational failures. This review systematically examines AI-driven applications across tailings dam safety, waste recycling, and intelligent water management, drawing insights from over 80 recent studies. Quantitative evidence indicates that AI-based monitoring systems can detect potential dam failures up to 30–40% earlier than conventional methods, while reinforcement learning and neural-network models improve mineral recovery by 10–25% with reduced chemical consumption. In water reuse operations, machine learning optimization achieves up to 35% savings in freshwater demand through closed-loop control. The paper highlights emerging integrations of AI with Explainable AI (XAI), Federated Learning (FL), and Circular Economy (CE) models that collectively support sustainable and transparent mining practices. Persistent barriers such as poor data quality, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of regulatory clarity are also discussed, along with future research directions. The findings demonstrate AI’s potential to transition mining operations toward safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible systems.
Copyright (c) 2025 Manjusha Tatiya, Milind Manikrao Darade, Babaso A. Shinde, Mahesh Prakash Kumbhare, Rupali Dineshwar Taware, Sukhadip Mhankali Chougule, Swati Mukesh Dixit, Anant Sidhappa Kurhade http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cells using CuO/CdS/Ag₂O ternary nanocomposite as a catalyst
In this study, a ternary CuO/CdS/Ag₂O nanocomposite was prepared for the first time to generate DSSCs. The nanocomposite was used as a photoelectrode with two types of dyes (natural and synthetic) serving as absorbing media: a green dye extracted from chard and a yellow dye known as (quinoline yellow E104). The results also showed that the green dye has a higher conversion efficiency (η) in DSSCs than the yellow dye, due to several reasons, including the difference in energy band gap, which is larger for the yellow dye (3.612 eV) than for the green dye (3.19 eV). As a result, more wavelengths of light pass through the cells to be absorbed by the dye, and the absorption of the green dye on the nanomaterial surfaces is increased, leading to higher DSSC efficiency. In addition, the current generated by DSSCs using the synthetic yellow dye is lower than that of DSSCs made with the green dye due to impurities in the natural dye. The absorption spectroscopy also revealed the optical properties of the prepared ternary CuO/CdS/Ag₂O nanocomposite, measuring absorbance versus wavelength and (αhυ)² versus hυ for CuO/CdS/Ag₂O nanoparticles prepared by the co-precipitation method. The nanocomposite had an energy band gap of (2.63 eV). The ternary nanocomposite was characterized using XRD, SEM, and EDS techniques.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amer.M. J. Al-Shammari , Naseer Ali Badr* http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of heavy metal migration from surface and groundwater to irrigated soil and wheat plants in some areas of central Iraq
This research investigates the deposition of heavy metals – lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) from surface water and groundwater sources to soil and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants in Babylon central Iraq region. To achieve the purpose of determining space and season variability, water, soil and wheat samples were taken in two seasons, autumn and spring Metal. Concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectro-photometry and X-ray fluorescence, and pollution indices were computed to examine the extent of pollution. The investigation found river water, particularly in autumn, to contain elevated concentrations of Pb (up to 0.82 mg/L) and Cu (up to 3.60 mg/L) above World Health Organization safety levels. Conversely, the concentrations of all the metals were extremely low in well water. River water-irrigated soil showed greater metal concentration than well water-irrigated soil, whereas the concentration of metals in wheat grains was within the permissible limit for human intake. From the research, surface water sources are widely contaminated and can represent an environmental hazard upon exposure to high levels of use for agricultural irrigation. Conversely, groundwater resources seem to offer a cleaner and longer lasting alternative to use in agriculture in this case.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hussien Abdulhamid Al-Khafaji, Maha Hussein Hashem, Abbas AL-Wotaify, Haider Farhan, Raad Shahad http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Photopolymer resin formulation and surface modification for enhanced coating applications in SLA-Printed devices
Stereolithography (SLA) has emerged as a superior additive manufacturing technique compared to Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), offering smoother surface finishes and higher dimensional accuracy. However, conventional SLA resins remain limited by brittleness, poor thermal stability, and weak coating adhesion. In this study, a hybrid photopolymer resin incorporating nano-silica fillers (0.5–2.0 wt%) and functional oligomers was formulated, alongside plasma–silanization surface treatments, to enhance coating performance of SLA-printed parts. Mechanical testing showed a peak improvement at 1.0 wt% nano-silica, where tensile strength increased by 35.9% (from 32.5 MPa to 44.2 MPa), Young’s modulus by 36.2% (870 MPa to 1185 MPa), and flexural strength by 29.9% (58.9 MPa to 76.5 MPa). Shore D hardness rose from 78 to 84, while thermal analysis revealed an upward shift in glass transition temperature from 64.2 °C to 70.5 °C and degradation onset temperature from 281 °C to 301 °C. Surface wettability improved significantly, with water contact angle reduced from 89.3° to 54.7°, raising surface energy from 32.4 to 51.1 mN/m. Coating adhesion (ASTM D3359) improved from grade 3B to 5B, and wear resistance increased by 40% (wear index reduced from 0.125 to 0.075 mg/cycle). These results validate the dual-pathway approach of resin reinforcement and post-print surface modification, enabling SLA-printed parts to overcome typical FDM limitations of poor surface fidelity and weak interfacial bonding. The developed system demonstrates strong potential for high-performance coatings in biomedical, optical, and microfluidic device applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sanan Thaer Abdalwahab, Ala’a D. Noor2, Haider Falih Shamikh Al-Saedi , Mohannad Mohammed , Nour Sabah Kadhim , Nawal Fattah Naji , Imad Ibrahim Dawood, Hiba Alaa Mohammed http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synthesis of CoCrNiOx high entropy oxide catalyst and its oxidative desulfurization performance
The production of ultraclean fuel represents a big challenge for scientists and workers in the petroleum industry because the presence of sulfur in the fuel may have severe consequences for human health and the environment. Oxidative desulfurisation (ODS) is a promising technology when compared with classical hydrodesulfurisation (HDS). In this work, the production of a new catalyst for the ODS process, in which a mixed oxide catalyst was synthesised by mechanochemistry mixing of three metal chlorides (cobalt, nickel, and chromium chlorides), and the atmospheric oxygen was used as an oxidant agent for Iraqi gasoil desulfurisation in an aerobic oxidative desulfurisation (AODS). The prepared catalyst was characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The study included an investigation of the effect of catalyst dosage, reaction temperature, and oxidation time. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to investigate the performance of the AODS reaction and to evaluate the main impact of the studied variables, as well as the interaction and quadratic effects, for determining the optimum condition. According to the findings obtained from the regression analysis, the experimental data were fitted to a quadratic model with a high correlation coefficient (R² 0.9839), adjusted correlation coefficient (Adj. R² 0.9419), and predicted correlation coefficient (Pred. R² 0.7419). The AODS process was applied with a maximum sulfur removal efficiency of 99% under operating conditions of 0.75 g catalyst dosage, 200 °C reaction temperature, and 60 minutes reaction time. The experimental sulfur removal efficiency was in satisfactory agreement with the predicted efficiency of 98.12%. Analysis of variation (ANOVA) shows that oxidation time is the most significant factor affecting sulfur removal efficiency, followed by reaction temperature and catalyst dosage, as indicated by their F-values.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muntasser Sahib Taha, Hameed Hussein Alwan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Profile and consequences of intentional plant intoxication in Morocco: a retrospective study over a 13-year period
Inappropriate use of plants represents a significant public health risk that is often underestimated. This study aims to determine the profile and consequences of intentional plant intoxication in Morocco over a 13-year period. This study was based on a retrospective analysis of cases of intentional plant intoxication reported to the Moroccan Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre (MPCPC) between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2022. The significance level was set at 5%. During the study period, the MPCPC recorded 189 cases of intentional herbal intoxication, representing 9.37% of all herbal intoxications occurring during this period (2016 cases). The average age of the patients was 29.77 years, with the majority being young adults (68.25%), adolescents (14.28%) and children under 15 (7.93%). The sex ratio (M/F) was 0.41 (71.04% female). Suicide attempts were the main cause of poisoning (87 cases), with Atractylis gummifera being the most commonly implicated plant (17 cases). Twenty-two cases were related to abortions, mainly caused by Peganum harmala (45.45%), drug addiction (16 cases), of which Datura stramonium was the most incriminated plant (5 cases), and plant mixtures (63.63%) were the most commonly used in criminal activities (11 cases). The route of administration was mainly oral (162 cases). Digestive, neurological and cardiac disorders, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis and liver damage were reported. The outcome was favourable in 103 cases, fatal in 4, including a 9-year-old girl who ingested Rumex divers, with sequelae in 2 cases and unknown in 80 cases. Calculation of the p-value revealed that several variables were highly significant. Inappropriate use of plants poses a significant risk to public health. It is essential to raise awareness of the dangers associated with these plants and to emphasise the importance of appropriate psychiatric support in cases of intentional intoxication.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mina Talib, Hind Hami, Abdelghani Asraoui, Naima Rhalem, Abdelmajid Soulaymani, Rachida Soulaymani –Bencheikh, Houda Sefiani, Jamal Mabrouki, Souad Skalli, Jamila Dahmani http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cr (III), Mn (II), Co (II), and Ni (II) complexes with a bidentate Mannich base: Synthesis, bioevaluation, and docking studies of the free ligand
The design and synthesis of novel coordination compounds have attracted considerable interest in the field of inorganic chemistry field, particularly as a result of Mannich base ligands’ capability of forming stable complexes with metal ions often result in an enhancement of the chemical and physical characteristics. In the present study, a new Mannich base ligand was synthesized by condensing benzaldehyde, di-benzylamine, and 5-chloro-2-mercapto-oxazole. The ligand has been thoroughly characterized using elemental analysis (CHNS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR), and mass spectrometry. As a result, the ligand’s coordination complexes with ions of Co (II), Cr (III), Mn (II), and Ni (II) had been synthesized and characterized through FT-IR, magnetic susceptibility measurements, UV-Vis spectroscopy, molar conductivity, and elemental analyses for the purpose of elucidating their electronic and structural features. FTIR spectra had confirmed the ligand’s bidentate coordination mode across all metal complexes. The electronic spectra and magnetic moment data indicated that the resulting complexes are of a variety of geometries according to the center of the metal. Molar conductivity measures have revealed that all complexes exhibited non-electrolytic behavior in the solutions suggesting high structural integrity and stability level. In addition to that, molecular docking studies were performed on the free ligand using the gold program to evaluate its possible interactions with the targeted enzyme’s active site. The docking analyses showed that ligand has the ability to effectively interact with residues of key amino acids within the enzyme’s active site, which results in the formation of stable binding conformations in addition to extensive bonding of hydrogen bonds, which support its possible biological activities. Additionally, the biological activities of the synthesized ligand and the biological activities of its metal complexes were assessed in vitro against bacterial strains, which include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, in addition to some fungal species, like Penicillium spp. and Aspergillus flavus. The MICs (i.e., minimum inhibitory concentrations) were determined to assess the compounds’ anti-microbial potency. Standard antibiotics, Fluconazole and Ampicillin, have been used as reference drugs. Results showed that metal complexes exhibited an improved anti-microbial activity compared with the reference drugs and free ligands, which has highlighted their potential for a wider range of pharmaceutical applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marwa Jassim Al-Muhamadawi*, Rehab Abdul Mahdi Al-Hassani http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
CyclePad-based modeling of simple heat exchangers: Educational case study in parallel and counterflow configurations
This article explores the use of CyclePad software for modelling and analysing simple heat exchangers by focusing on its application in educational and preliminary design contexts. Heat exchangers are the essential devices for thermal energy transfer. Modelling heat exchanger quickly by using hand calculation is time consuming and sometimes also leads to errors. Therefore, CyclePad has been used to model heat exchanger which is having an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that can makes the configuration of parallel and counterflow arrangements quickly. The study involves two case studies: in one ait to air exchange takes place whereas in the second air to water (involving phase change) happens in both parallel as well as counter flow arrangements. Key performance metrics considered in the study are Log Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD), heat transfer rates, and mass flow rates, which are calculated and compared for different flow configurations. Results demonstrate that CyclePad provides accurate and reliable solutions which are supported well with theoretical methods, while offering a user-friendly platform for visualizing the thermodynamic processes. The findings highlight the value of CyclePad in engineering education by bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Choon Kit Chan, Pankaj Dumka, Mohini P Sardey, Veeresh G. Balikai,Milind P Gajare, Rishika Chauhan, Partha Sarathy Banerjee, Dhananjay R. Mishra, Feroz shaik7, Jeyagopi Raman, Subhav singh, Deekshant varshney http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impacts of mineral and biofertilizers on rhizosphere and bulk-soil carbon, sulfur, and C/S ratio in maize for soil sustainability
Balanced carbon–sulfur (C-S) dynamics are crucial for maintaining soil fertility and sustaining crop productivity. This study examined how mineral and biofertilizers affect total sulfur (S), organic carbon (OC), and the C/S ratio in maize rhizosphere and bulk soils. A field experiment was established with six treatments: an unfertilized control, urea (250 kg N ha⁻¹), ammonium sulfate (200 kg N ha⁻¹), BioHealth biofertilizer (4–5 kg N ha⁻¹), liquid effective microorganisms (EM, 400 L ha⁻¹), and a combined fertilizer containing one-quarter of each recommended dose. Total S, OC, and C/S ratios were measured after 70 and 100 days of maize growth. Ammonium sulfate consistently produced the highest sulfur concentrations in both rhizosphere and bulk soils, with increases of more than 40% over the control at both sampling times. The combined fertilizer treatment significantly enhanced OC content in both soil compartments, with up to a 25 % increase compared with the control. Urea yielded the greatest C/S ratio (approximately 15 % higher than the control), while all treatments showed a progressive decline in C/S as sulfur availability increased, confirming an inverse S-C/S relationship. These results demonstrate that integrating bio- and mineral fertilizers improves soil C–S balance and nutrient availability, offering a practical strategy to enhance soil fertility and support sustainable maize production.
Copyright (c) 2025 Russul Muhammad Ijbear*, Raid Shaalan Jarallah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Weathering indices and mineralogical composition of the sand fraction in soils from the western desert of holy Karbala governorate, Iraq
This study focuses on analyzing the mineral composition of sand fraction was separated from clay and silt in selected soils of the Western Desert in Karbala Governorate, Iraq, and assessing the intensity of Mineral Weathering Index MWI and ZTR indicators. Sixteen samples were collected from depths of 0–30 cm, sand was separated from clay and silt, then light and heavy minerals were identified with polarized light microscope. The results showed that monocrystalline quartz dominated by 21.1-26.9%, while polycrystalline quartz ranged between 2.7–4.6%. Feldspar content ranged 2-3.9%, and carbonate rock fragments accounted for 28.2–40.2%. Heavy minerals were the most abundant which resented by iron oxides at 39.5-47.7%. Chlorite is present with 7.8-10.1%, biotite mica 4.4-6.5%, and muscovite 4.9–6.9%. Unstable minerals such as pyroxene and amphiboles ranged from 3.4–6.8%. MWI values ranged from 0.33-0.44, and ZTR values between 21.1-26.9, moderate to low weathering and low to moderate mineral maturity. These results reflect the nature of sedimentary deposits and the impact of a dry desert environment on limited chemical weathering.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shireen Mudhafar Ali Alkhalil http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Design, synthesis, and in vitro biological activity of five- and six-membered heterocycles naproxen derivatives
This research details the synthesis of new triazole derivatives from the anti-inflammatory drug naproxen and evaluates their biological activity. Naproxen was converted into a key intermediate by reacting it with thiocarbohydrazide. From comp. (1), a series of novel compounds, including (2), (3), and (4), were synthesized. The structures of these derivatives were confirmed through FT-IR, H1-NMR, and C13-NMR spectroscopy and melting point analysis. The biological assessment revealed that the newly synthesized compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Compounds (1), (2), (3), and (4) were particularly active, showing 60.85% anti-inflammatory activity, which is significantly higher than naproxen's 53.3%. Furthermore, LD50 results indicated that the derivatives have low toxicity. These promising results warrant further research into their other potential pharmacological applications, such as antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nagham Majid Abdulhassan*, Abdul Jabar Kh. Atia, Falah S. Al-Fartusie http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Energy consumption analysis of SLA and FDM printing: A comparative study using power meter data
Additive manufacturing (AM) is transitioning from rapid prototyping toward sustainable, production-level technologies, making energy efficiency a critical performance metric alongside part quality. Among AM methods, Stereolithography (SLA) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) dominate consumer and industrial adoption, yet their comparative energy footprints remain insufficiently quantified. Existing literature reports FDM printers typically draw 100–250 W due to heated beds and extrusion systems, whereas SLA systems generally consume 50–100 W, but most studies rely on manufacturer specifications rather than empirical data. To address this gap, this work conducts a state-of-the-art comparative energy analysis of SLA and FDM printing using real-time wattmeter monitoring under standardized benchmark conditions. Using a Bambu Lab A1 (FDM) and an ELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra (SLA), identical parts (~20 cm³) were printed, and consumption normalized by part mass and volume. Results revealed that FDM consumed 81.3 Wh/part (0.89 Wh/g, 0.98 Wh/cm³) with peak loads of 265 W, while SLA required only 48.2 Wh/part (0.51 Wh/g, 0.57 Wh/cm³) with a maximum of 112 W. SLA also exhibited lower standby power (2.8 Wh/h vs. 6.1 Wh/h for FDM) and reduced variability (±3.2% vs. ±7.4%), highlighting its stability and efficiency. These findings extend prior state-of-the-art studies by providing empirical, high-resolution energy profiles across full print cycles and normalized metrics, enabling fair comparison. By positioning SLA as more energy-efficient for high-resolution parts and FDM as more favorable for mechanically demanding applications, this study contributes to sustainable AM practice and supports decision-making aligned with SDGs 7, 9, 12, and 13.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sanan Thaer Abdalwahab, Mustafa Moaied Rabeaa2, Haider Falih Shamikh Al-Saedi,Shahlaa Majid J. , Jaber Hameed Hussain, Mohannad Mohammed, Israa Alhani, Abdul Sattar Jabbar Taha http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Machine learning applications in ore grade estimation and blending optimization for modern mining
The growing complexity of mineral deposits and the demand for sustainable, cost-effective mining have driven the adoption of machine learning (ML) for ore grade estimation and blending optimization. This review critically examines how ML models—such as ANN, SVM, RF, and ensemble techniques—surpass traditional geostatistical methods in handling non-linear spatial variability and limited sampling. The paper emphasizes hybrid frameworks that combine ML with geostatistics, optimization algorithms (GA, PSO, RL), and digital technologies like IoT and digital twins for real-time, adaptive decision-making. Key findings indicate that ML-based systems significantly enhance prediction accuracy, blending precision and operational efficiency while reducing waste and energy consumption. Despite these advancements, issues related to data quality, model interpretability, interoperability, and ethics remain. The study outlines future directions emphasizing explainable AI, standardized benchmarking, and robust data infrastructures for transparent and sustainable implementation of ML in mining. Recent industrial deployments illustrate the practical impact of ML in mining operations. For instance, Australian and Canadian mines have integrated ML-based ore grade control and real-time blending optimization systems, resulting in 10–15% improvements in recovery rates and reduced energy consumption. Similarly, predictive maintenance and digital twin frameworks powered by ML are being used by global firms such as Rio Tinto and BHP to achieve safer, more adaptive, and cost-efficient operations. These applications demonstrate the tangible value of ML in advancing sustainable and intelligent mining practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dipa Dattatray Dharmadhikari, Avani Ray, Babaso A. Shinde, Sandeep V. Raut, Rupali Dineshwar Taware, Smita Desai, Shital Yashwant Waware, Anant Sidhappa Kurhade http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of Bokashi Organic Fertilizer, Balanced Mineral Fertilizer, and Foliar Application of Selenium and Silicon Nanoparticles on Soil Sustainability and the Growth and Yield of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)
The study aimed to evaluate the impact of organic, mineral, and nano-enabled fertilizers on soil sustainability and the growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea). A field experiment was conducted during the autumn season of 2024 in District 41, Babil Governorate, Iraq, using 16 treatments arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Treatments included EM Bokashi bio-organic fertilizer, balanced NPK mineral fertilizer, and foliar sprays of silicon and selenium nanoparticles, applied individually or in combinations. The integrated treatment of EM Bokashi + NPK + SiNPs + SeNPs significantly improved soil fertility indicators (N, P, K, organic matter, and cation exchange capacity), enhanced microbial populations, and produced the highest plant growth and yield attributes, including a marketable yield of 100.42 Mg ha⁻¹. These findings highlight the potential of combining organic, mineral, and nano-fertilizers as a sustainable strategy to improve soil health, crop productivity, and future agricultural profitability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Montather Hussein Khalaf* , Hayawi W. A. Al-Juthery http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Environmental Remediation of Malachite Green Dye by Use of SA-g-P(AAc-MA)/TiO2 Nanocomposite
This study involved the use of sodium alginate (SA)-g-poly (acrylic acid (AAc)-maleic acid (MA))/titanium dioxide (SA-g-P(AAc-MA)/TiO2) nanocomposite. The material undergo synthesis by the method of free radical copolymerization for its application in malachite green (MG) dye removal from water. The analysis of the prepared material was carried out by various analytical methods that revealed the presence of different functional groups on the adsorbent’s heterogeneous and porous surface. The findings of study showed that nearly 99.56% of MG dye removal take place when solution pH was 2 within 180 min at room temperature. The maximal capacity of adsorbent for dye removal was observed to be 185.2 mg/g. Overall, the study followed pseudo second kinetic and Freundlich isotherm model. Thermodynamic analysis demonstrated the process was spontaneous (ΔG = -13.233 kJ/mol) and endothermic (ΔH = 27.088 kJ/mol). These results of study showed effectiveness of nanocomposite for dye adsorption from water.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hayder H. Shubbar, Khudhair M. Mahdi, Khamael abdulsalam Abdul halwas*, Layth S. Jasim, Maryam Batool http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0