Characterization of adsorption processes in analytical liquid–solid chromatography

This review discusses nonlinear chromatographic methods of importance for proper characterization of the adsorption processes in analytical chromatographic systems, with focus on reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Linear methods such as the linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) method and the Snyder–Dolan hydrophobic-subtraction model will also be reviewed briefly. The nonlinear methods for adsorption isotherm determination and the tools for further treatment of the nonlinear adsorption data will be extensively treated in a way suitable for the general chromatographer. Applications of the various methods will be given and the outcome and conclusions will be discussed. Special emphasis will be placed on discussing the possibilities of combining linear and nonlinear methods in order to obtain a deeper and more complete investigation of the interactions in the actual phase system.     

Fifty years of studies of double layer effects in electrode kinetics��a personal view

Developments in the treatment of double layer effects in electrode kinetics are outlined. These include discreteness-of-charge effects in the presence of specific adsorption, solvent effects in electron transfer reactions, and effects related to the distribution of charge in polyatomic reactants. The importance of studies at single crystal electrodes is emphasized, and the development of a single crystal ultramicroelectrode described. Finally, a method of improving the estimate of the diffuse layer potential drop on the basis of Monte Carlo simulations is presented.     

Electrical double layer in surface-inactive electrolyte solution and adsorption of halide ions from 0.1 M solutions on liquid Cd–Ga and In–Ga alloys in gamma-butyrolactone

The double-layer characteristics of liquid renewable Cd–Ga (0.3 at % Cd) and In–Ga (14.2 at % In) electrodes in the gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) solutions of various electrolytes are studied by measuring the differential capacitance and using the method of open-circuit jet electrode. For the (Cd–Ga)/GBL and (In–Ga)/GBL interfaces, the zero-charge potentials, which are not distorted by the specific adsorption of ions, and the chemisorption potential drops of solvent are determined. It is shown that, in spite of the fact that the work function decreases as we pass from (In–Ga) to (Cd–Ga), the chemisorption potential drops of solvent on both electrodes are close. This behavior is explained by a closer approach of GBL dipoles to the surface of (Cd-Ga) electrode providing more effective overlapping of donor–acceptor levels of metal and solvent. It is shown that, in GBL, the adsorption parameters of halide ions and their surface activity series depend on the metal nature. On the (Cd–Ga) and (In–Ga) electrodes, the reversed surface activity series of halide ions is observed: on the Hg electrode in various solvents, the surface activity increases in the series Cl^– < Br^– < I^–, whereas on the (Cd–Ga) and (In–Ga) electrodes in GBL, it varies in the reverse series I^– < Br^– < Cl^–.     

A bottom-up approach to understanding protein layer formation at solid–liquid interfaces

A common goal across different fields (e.g. separations, biosensors, biomaterials, pharmaceuticals) is to understand how protein behavior at solid–liquid interfaces is affected by environmental conditions. Temperature, pH, ionic strength, and the chemical and physical properties of the solid surface, among many factors, can control microscopic protein dynamics (e.g. adsorption, desorption, diffusion, aggregation) that contribute to macroscopic properties like time-dependent total protein surface coverage and protein structure. These relationships are typically studied through a top-down approach in which macroscopic observations are explained using analytical models that are based upon reasonable, but not universally true, simplifying assumptions about microscopic protein dynamics. Conclusions connecting microscopic dynamics to environmental factors can be heavily biased by potentially incorrect assumptions. In contrast, more complicated models avoid several of the common assumptions but require many parameters that have overlapping effects on predictions of macroscopic, average protein properties. Consequently, these models are poorly suited for the top-down approach. Because the sophistication incorporated into these models may ultimately prove essential to understanding interfacial protein behavior, this article proposes a bottom-up approach in which direct observations of microscopic protein dynamics specify parameters in complicated models, which then generate macroscopic predictions to compare with experiment. In this framework, single-molecule tracking has proven capable of making direct measurements of microscopic protein dynamics, but must be complemented by modeling to combine and extrapolate many independent microscopic observations to the macro-scale. The bottom-up approach is expected to better connect environmental factors to macroscopic protein behavior, thereby guiding rational choices that promote desirable protein behaviors.     

Stabilization of a π double bond between two boron atoms: A theoretical approach

The low-lying states of HBBH, HBBNH₂ and H₂NBBNH₂ are investigated by means of ab initio CI calculations using a double-zeta + polarization basis set. Diborene is found to have a ³∑_g⁻ ground state. Replacement of hydrogen by amino groups on each side of the BB bond leads to an ethylene-like bond which corresponds to a ¹A_g state of D_2h symmetry. π back-donation by the amino lone pairs is responsible for the stabilization of this state.     

Neural network devices based on reaction–duffusion media: an approach to artificial retina

Neural network architecture of devices based on reaction–diffusion media is discussed. Image processing operations performed by these media are similar to first steps of human vision mechanism.     

Hydrogen adsorption in the series of carbon nanostructures: Graphenes–graphene nanotubes–nanocrystallites

A comparative analysis of hydrogen absorption capability is performed for the first time for three types of carbon nanostructures: graphenes, oriented carbon nanotubes with graphene walls (OCNTGs), and pyrocarbon nanocrystallites (PCNs) synthesized in the pores of TRUMEM ultrafiltration membranes with mean diameters (D_m) of 50 and 90 nm, using methane as the pyrolized gas. The morphology of the carbon nanostructures is studied by means of powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Hydrogen adsorption is investigated via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in combination with mass-spectrometry. It is shown that only OCNTGs can adsorb and store hydrogen, the desorption of which under atmospheric pressure occurs at a temperature of around 175°C. Hydrogen adsorption by OCNTGs is quantitatively determined and found to be about 1.5% of their mass. Applying certain assumptions, the relationship between the mass of carbon required for the formation of single-wall OCNTGs in membrane pores and the surface area of pores is established. Numerical factor Ψ = m_dep/m_calc, where m_dep is the actual mass of carbon deposited upon the formation of OCNTGs and mcalc is the calculated mass of carbon necessary for the formation of OCNTGs is introduced. It is found that the dependence of specific hydrogen adsorption on the magnitude of the factor has a maximum at Ψ = 1.2, and OCNTGs can adsorb and store hydrogen in the interval 0.4 to 0.6 < Ψ < 1.5 to 1.7. Possible mechanisms of hydrogen adsorption and its relationship to the structure of carbon nanoformations are examined.     

Modeling of fixed-bed adsorption of Cs+ and Sr2+ onto clay–iron oxide composite using artificial neural network and constant–pattern wave approach

A low-cost, non-toxic and effective adsorbent constituted by a montmorillonite coated by iron oxides (montmorillonite–iron oxide composite) was prepared to assess its effectiveness in the removal of Cs⁺ and Sr²⁺ from aqueous solution. Dynamic adsorption experiments were carried out at room temperature under the effect of various operating parameters such as bed depth Z (5–15 cm), initial cation concentration C ₀ (2–50 mg L^?1) and volumetric flow rate Q (0.5–8 mL min^?1). Column performance has been modeled with constant-pattern wave approach combined to the Freundlich isotherm model and artificial neural network (ANN) models. The time, initial cation concentration, bed depth and volumetric flow rate were chosen as the input variables whereas, the outlet concentration C _t was considered as the output variable. The developed network was found to be useful in predicting the breakthrough curves. Experimental data for the used system were well fitted with ANN than the combined constant–pattern wave approach.     

A novel FRET approach for in situ investigation of cellulase–cellulose interaction

A novel real-time in situ detection method for the investigation of cellulase–cellulose interactions based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) has been developed. FRET has been widely used in biological and biophysical fields for studies related to proteins, nucleic acids, and small biological molecules. Here, we report the efficient labeling of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with donor dye 5-(aminomethyl)fluorescein and its use as a donor in a FRET assay together with an Alexa Fluor 594 (AF594, acceptor)–cellulase conjugate as acceptor. This methodology was successfully employed to investigate the temperature dependency of cellulase binding to cellulose at a molecular level by monitoring the fluorescence emission change of donor (or acceptor) in a homogeneous liquid environment. It also provides a sound base for ongoing cellulase–cellulose study using cellulosic fiber.     

Palladium-catalyzed oxidative arylation of chromones via a double C–H activation: an expedient approach to flavones

A palladium-catalyzed oxidative arylation of chromones was examined. A regioselective 2-arylation of chromone was carried out via a double C–H activation process. The procedure provided an expedient approach for the preparation of flavone derivatives.     

Fire retardancy effects in single and double layered sol–gel derived TiO2 and SiO2-wood composites

Sol–gel derived TiO₂ and SiO₂-wood inorganic composites are prepared by direct vacuum infiltration of silicon and titanium alkoxide based precursors in pine sapwood in one or two cycles followed by a controlled thermal curing process. The resulting flame retardancy effect is investigated under two different fire scenarios using cone calorimetry and oxygen index (LOI). Heat release rates (HRR) especially the values for the second peak, are reduced moderately for all single layered composites. This effect is more pronounced for double layered composites where HRR was reduced up to 40 % showing flame retardancy potential in developing fires. Beside this, smoke release was lowered up to 72 % indicating that these systems had less fire hazards compared to untreated wood, whereas no meaningful improvement is realized in terms of fire load (total heat evolved) and initial HRR increase. However impressively, the LOI of the composites were increased up to 41 vol% in comparison to 23 vol% for untreated wood displaying a remarkable flame retardancy against reaction to a small flame. An approximate linear interdependence among the fire properties and the material loading as well as fire residue was observed. A residual protection layer mechanism is proposed improving the residue properties for the investigated composites.     

A computational modeling of two dimensional reaction–diffusion Brusselator system arising in chemical processes

In this article, the authors proposed a modified cubic B-spline differential quadrature method (MCB-DQM) to show computational modeling of two-dimensional reaction–diffusion Brusselator system with Neumann boundary conditions arising in chemical processes. The system arises in the mathematical modeling of chemical systems such as in enzymatic reactions, and in plasma and laser physics in multiple coupling between modes. The MCB-DQM reduced the Brusselator system into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The obtained system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations is then solved by a four-stage RK4 scheme. Accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method successfully tested on four numerical examples and obtained results satisfy the well known result that for small values of diffusion coefficient, the steady state solution converges to equilibrium point $(B,A/B)$ if $1-A+B^{2}>0$ .     

A combined Kirchhoff–Master equation approach to electronic transport in one-dimensional molecular conductors

We discuss classical one-dimensional conductivity problems using Kirchhoff’s law comprising resistor network nodes that can only be occupied by a limited number of charge carriers, leading to the formulation of combined Kirchhoff–Master equations (KMEs) of electronic transport. For illustrative purposes, the equations are solved for simple two site systems; and we present a numerical solution by means of a Monte Carlo method for arbitrary systems. As an example, the procedure is applied to describe DNA charge transfer through a nanojunction at ambient conditions in the regime of small external voltages.     

In-syringe-stirring: A novel approach for magnetic stirring-assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction

For the first time, the use of a magnetic stirrer within the syringe of an automated syringe pump and the resulting possible analytical applications are described. A simple instrumentation following roughly the one from sequential injection analyzer systems is used in combination with an adaptor, which is placed onto the barrel of a glass syringe. Swirling around the longitudinal axis of the syringe and holding two strong neodymium magnets, it causes a rotating magnetic field and serves as driver for a magnetic stirring bar placed inside of the syringe.     

Advances in the thin layer chromatographic analysis of counterfeit pharmaceutical products: 2008–2019

Publications reporting thin layer chromatography (TLC) screening and high performance TLC (HPTLC)-densitometry quantification analyses of counterfeit pharmaceutical products are reviewed for the 2008–2019 period. Screening using TLC methods published in the Global Pharma Health Fund (GPHF) Minilab Manual and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Compendium, as well as in other sources, are covered. Also included are publications on TLC analysis hyphenated with Raman and mass spectrometry; analyses of counterfeit traditional herbal medicines; earlier published reviews; transfer of screening methods for counterfeit pharmaceutical products in the Minilab Manual and FDA Compendium to HPTLC-densitometry using a model process; development of HPTLC-densitometry methods for pharmaceutical products not included in the Minilab Manual or FDA Compendium using the model process followed by development of corresponding Supplemental FDA Compendium TLC screening methods; and modified Minilab methods with simplified detection based on heating of silica gel F layers to produce fluorescence quenching zones (thermochemical activation) rather than detection using spray, dip, or vapor phase derivatization reagents. Some thoughts on future prospects for the field are also offered.     

Removal of sulfate from wastewater via synthetic Mg–Al layered double hydroxide: An adsorption,kinetics, and thermodynamic study

Sulfate-contaminated water is a major environmental problem that alters the taste of water, disturbs the digestive systems of animals and humans, and erodes both soil and metals. In this study, the layered double hydroxide LDH 4Mg2Al·NO₃ and LDH 8Mg2Al·NO₃ were prepared using a co-precipitation technique, and applied in the adsorption of SO₄^2- from an aqueous solution. The reaction is well described by the Langmuir adsorption model. LDH 4Mg2Al·NO₃ and LDH 8Mg2Al·NO₃ afforded maximum SO₄^2- adsorption values of 135.14 and 92.59 ​mg/g, respectively. The reaction is best explained by a pseudo-second-order mechanism, which suggests that chemisorption is the rate-determining step. The activation energies of LDH 4Mg2Al·NO₃ and LDH 8Mg2Al·NO₃ indicate that the adsorption of SO₄^2- on synthetic LDHs predominantly follows an anion-exchange mechanism, wherein SO₄^2- ions in the aqueous medium replaces intercalated NO₃^- ions in the synthetic LDHs. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔH̊, ΔS̊, and ΔG̊) were also calculated. The reaction was endothermic, and the synthetic LDHs afforded feasible and spontaneous adsorption of SO₄^2-.