Portugaliae
Electrochimica Acta

LcBm is gaining popularity as an alternative energy source, due to the depletion of petroleum derivatives and environmental concerns. Characterizing Lcbm intermediates and products is critical for turning it into Bf. LBm chemical composition is crutial in creating successful pretreatment methods that break down its stiff structure and convert sucrose to glucose via enzymes and microorganisms. The steps herein reviewed allow for C2H5OH synthesis and additional value-added green chemicals. This review examines various feedstock and pretreatment techniques for C2H5OH production, including Ln degradation, breakdown, hydrolysis and fermentation. While combined pretreatment improves chemical production and enzymatic hydrolysis of LBm, it has greater operating costs. Acids pretreatment procedures, steam explosion and hydrothermal treatments effectively remove Hc fractions. Alkali, oxidative or organosolve pretreatment is more successful in removing and degrading phenols. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of current and future bio refinery processes, identify constraints and develop technologies to improve pretreatment procedures. Keywords: Bf; LcBm; pretreatment.

CI of MS in ground water by AEOBL and Zn was herein investigated by WL method and PDP. It was concluded that MS corrosion resistance strengthened with AEOBL and Zn presence, due to an increase in LPR and a decrease in Icorr. Therefore, AEOBL and Zn inhibited metal corrosion and acted as good CI. SP showed a SE between AEOBL active principles and Zn ion. FTIR spectral analysis revealed that a protective film was formed on the MS surface by coordination of Fe2+ ion with polar O atoms of phenolic and ether groups, pi electrons of the double bonds and O of methoxy group. Each functional group contributed to the protective film formation, which also contained Zn(OH)2. SEM images confirmed the formation of a protective film on the MS surface. PDP revealed that LPR increased from 760 to 4561 Ohm/cm2 and Icorr decreased from 5.941 x 10-5 to 1.006 x 10-5 A/cm2. The findings may be useful in water towers where ground water is used for cooling. Keywords: AEOBL; CI; FTIR; ground water; MS; PDP; SEM; SP; WL method; Zn(OH)2.

AMMC are notable for their extensive research and unique property profiles, surpassing those of traditional solid metals. Their remarkable strength sets them apart, making them highly sought-after and versatile across diverse industries. The integration of reinforcements into AMMC boosts their properties, including increased tensile and compressive strength, improved wear resistance, reduced thermal expansion and enhanced hardness, characteristics unattainable with conventional materials. However, the use of CMC, such as SiC and Al2O3, escalates the production cost of AMMC, thereby limiting their application in various industries. In recent times, researchers have increasingly turned to natural reinforcements derived from waste sources, such as bamboo leaves, rice and palm kernel shells. However, investigations into PV potential as reinforcements for AMMC have been limited, prompting the initiation of this study. This research aimed to examine mechanical, microstructural, electrochemical and optoelectronic properties of AMMC reinforced with PVP. The study demonstrated an increase in hardness values, from 28.1 to 38.5 HRB, with 25% PVP reinforcement, and a significant reduction in CR, from 12.06 to 6.13 mm/yr. Electrical resistivity and conductivity measurements showed variations across composite samples, while microstructural analysis confirmed uniform PVP dispersion and integration within the metal matrix, alongside additional crystalline formations. Keywords: Al; corrosion; HRB; optoelectrical; PV; PVP; reinforcement.

Due to its wide areas of applications, ready availability and affordability, mild steel has become a very versatile metal in the industry, but it is usually exposed to different environments that can corrode it, thereby affecting its properties and performance. Hence, effective metal corrosion control is required before or during mild steel application. Zn₃(PO₄)₂ coating is a preferred method for surface treatment and finishing of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, being highly regarded for its efficiency, rapid operation and ability to provide outstanding corrosion and wear resistance, adhesion and lubricative properties. In this review, components of Zn₃(PO₄)₂ bath, its detailed process, adsorption mechanism on metal surfaces, applications, thermodynamic and kinetic properties, are considered. Keywords: coating; corrosion; metal; Zn₃(PO₄)₂.

Electrooxidation (EO) of glucose (Glu) on a stainless steel (SS) electrode surface was investigated under two conditions: in the absence and presence of Pseudomonas bacteria. In its absence, CV analysis revealed a redox system within potential (E) range from -0.5 to 0 V. However, when bacteria suspension was introduced into the electrolytic solution, significant changes were observed. CV showed the emergence of anodic and cathodic peaks, accompanied by a substantial increase in current density (j). This indicated strong interactions between electrode surface and bacteria. The presence of bacteria also caused the redox system to shift towards more anodic E values. Despite this shift, oxidation j decreased. These findings suggest that Pseudomonas played a critical role in modifying the electrochemical behavior of Glu on SS electrode surface, possibly through direct interactions or alterations in the local environment at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Keywords: bio-corrosion; CV; EO; Glu; pseudomonas; SS.

The purpose of this study was to provide recommendations for enhancing environmental awareness and education in the region of Quetta, Pakistan, by investigating the influence of Environmental Education and Awareness on the Effective Management of Solid Wastes in the region. This was achieved by examining existing awareness on environmental policies, and how these influence people’s attitudes towards SWM. This was accomplished by establishing a link between mindset and SWM strategies, and assessing the influence of individuals’ environmental knowledge on how they address SW. Using a standardized survey, data were collected from 400 respondents from four zones: Kuchlack, Siryab, Kharot Abad and Nawakili, employing a systematic random sampling technique. The information gathered from the questionnaire was scrutinized. The findings revealed the presence of an environmental awareness policy in Quetta, Balochistan, as well as its effects on people’s attitudes towards SWM. In addition, no association was found between attitudes and SWM practice. Also, environmental education did not influence Quetta people’s attitudes towards SWM. Based on these findings, a collection of suggestions has been developed to assist practitioners, policymakers and especially academics in dealing with SWM. Keywords: environmental awareness; SW; WM.

This review paper examines the potential of using NPNi/NPNiO and NC as CI for MS and other ferrous alloys in a variety of aggressive corrosive media. A survey of previous literature revealed that higher Ct of NPNi has significantly reduced CR and has increased corrosion IE(%) for different ferrous alloys in various corrosive media. These CI effectively protect the substrate, even at low Ct, by forming a dense passive film which adheres to the metal surface and inhibits anodic or cathodic reactions that cause metal corrosion. Their enhanced corrosion protection ability is due to the presence of more available active sites for adsorption of destructive ions, caused by their high surface area to volume ratio. NPNi are very stable, even at higher T and in aggressive salt environments, due to their large surface area, high hardness and excellent thermal stability. These CI have a unique advantage over other traditional organic and green inhibitors, because they are not easily washed away by corrosive fluids during industrial operations, and are chemically stable under harsh conditions and elevated T. Different methods for synthesis and characterization of NPNi, as well as environmental and safety considerations associated with the use of these CI, are also herein discussed. Keywords: corrosion; CI; ferrous alloys; Ni; NiO; NP.

This study involved the development of a multifaceted Zn barrier coating through ED technique, followed by a comprehensive characterization of its properties. A MS plate, Zn and CaO were all sourced and assessed, in accordance with ASTM standards. ED process was then employed to coat MS, resulting in Zn-12CaO identification as the formulation with the highest coating thickness, at 0.2304 mm. Electrochemical assessment highlighted exceptional corrosion performance of Zn-12CaO coating, which showed CR of 2.4117 mm/year and Pr of 34.41 Ω. This performance stood out in comparison to the as-received sample, which had a CR of 13.449 mm/year across all Zn-CaO formulations. Microstructural analysis through SEM images unveiled the presence of rough and irregularly shaped refined particles, with the Zn-12CaO coating showing a significant deposit of crystallites. Furthermore, it exhibited remarkable hardness, registering a value of 258.12 BHN. EDS analysis provided insights into the coating’s significant elements, contributing to its corrosion resistance and hardness properties. With its impressive hardness value of 258.12 BHN and low CR of 2.0618 mm/year, Zn-12CaO coating emerges as an excellent solution against potential failure in steel, for application in industries requiring durable protective barriers, such as automotive, construction and marine environments. Keywords: corrosion; ED of Zn; mechanical properties; microstructural analysis.

The study's aim was to create a brightness histogram based on the electrical effects of a 1% solution of lavender essential oil dissolved with 5% ethyl alcohol in distilled water compared to a control sample of 5% ethyl alcohol in distilled water. Corona gas discharge (CGD) is a glowing corona with a bluish color that appears because of a high concentration of ions and electrons. The corona discharge is connected to ionization processes in the gas phase, which depend on the electric field and gas composition. CGD occurs in laboratory conditions. Corona can have a positive or negative charge. Both types are used for wastewater cleaning, fruit juice sterilization, surface disinfecting, and medicine. A high-voltage electrode usually ranges from 3 to 30 kV. The frequency range was from 10 to 20 kHz. The electric current is commonly in mA. Ignatov et al. have studied signal power ranges from one to two-tenths of a watt. Antonov et al. have shown that CGD parameters depend on the object’s dielectric permittivity, underscoring the importance of this research. The work of Pesotskaya et al. is also of significance to this study. It indicates that BH can be created with black-white registration and that brightness is linked with dielectric permittivity. This finding is particularly relevant to this research about the effects of CGD on lavender oil (LO) from the Lavandula angustifolia mill., as it provided a method for quantifying observed changes in brightness. The formula is Y = Cε, where Y is brightness, C is coefficient and ε is dielectric permittivity. Keywords: brightness; CGD; histogram; LO.

The aim of this study was to shed light on the process of CH₃OH bacterial electrolytic oxidation, catalysed by a Zn-modified CPE, in the presence of PM polymer in a solution containing 0.3 g NaCl dissolved in 20 mL distilled water. Electrodes were fabricated by depositing Zn on a CPE using potentiostat and galvanostatic techniques. Optical morphology analysis and microscopy techniques revealed Zn efficient dispersion on C, forming well-structured and connected clusters. The study of electrode behavior using CV techniques revealed catalytic effects that improved CH₃OH oxidation results. Keywords: CH₃OH; CV, electrodeposition; oxidation; PM Zn.

The aim of this manuscript was to optimize the IE(%) of a pyridazine derivative (MDP) for hindering MS corrosion in a 1 M HCl solution. To identify the most influential parameters affecting CI, a study was conducted using a Doehlert matrix and Nemrod software. Based on preliminary knowledge, three parameters (Ct from MDP, IT and T) were selected. IE(%) was evaluated by analyzing PDP intensity-potential curves and interpreting the obtained results. The novelty of this research stems from the methodical application of DoE methodology to optimize CI, which offers notable advantages such as reduced test requirements, and the ability to discern interactions between factors. The findings revealed a remarkable IE(%) of 96%, under optimal conditions: Ct from MDP of 0.3 x 10-3 mol/L, IT of 12 h and T of 303.15 K. Keywords: corrosion; DoE; inhibition; MDP; MS; PDP.

MS is the most commonly used alloy in industries, due to its remarkable features such as high thermal requirements, low cost, easy availability, high strength, durability and electrical conductivity. In recent years, scientists have focused on green inhibitors obtained from plants, fruit extracts and essential oils. Besides being environmentally friendly, in terms of corrosion resistance, plant extracts are becoming increasingly important, due to their low cost and toxicity, and high availability. Additionally, they are rich in organic compounds with polar atoms, such as O, P, S and N, containing multiple bonds in their molecules, through which they can adsorb onto the metal surface, forming a protective film, by various adsorption isotherms. This paper provides a review on research works done on MS corrosion control by naturally occurring plant extracts as corrosion inhibitors in H2SO4 solutions. Keywords: corrosion inhibition; EIS; H2SO4; MS; plant extracts; PDP; WL.

The background motivation of this paper was SPP, which refers to surface waves occurring at terahertz frequencies, as widely used wave in optics industry. This wave has been produced during the electromagnetic field interaction with oscillations of free metal electrons. Due to their improved field and intense incarceration close to the metal surface, SPP waves have been extensively employed for high sensitivity sensors and small photonic circuits. The method herein proposed was a BPF based on designer-SPP by means of central frequency and adjustable bandwidth. It was adjusted via varactor diodes placed in different positions in the T-shaped resonator. Considering the constraints and strengths of high field SPP polarizations, hearing and coupling becomes weaker than that from the usual microstrip. Analytical and evaluation methods comprised three inductors assessed at different locations of the T-shaped resonator, which were controlled by DC bias voltage. Transition from the microstrip QTEM mode to SPP misleading mode was performed to excite SSPP based on the T-shaped resonator with g-distance coupling. Keywords: adjustable central frequency; BPF; QTEM, SPPP.

This study investigated the electrochemical performance of pure Al and Al alloy anodes in Sw environments for CP real-world applications, such as marine environments, under various operational conditions. Experimental results showed a significant activation of Al alloy anodes compared to pure Al, as indicated by a more anodic shift in OCP and a marked increase in jcorr. The impact of varying DAC and changes in Sw conductivity on CP performance was also herein explored. These factors notably influenced both Ecorr and j from CP, resulting in deviations from expected design values. Keywords: Al alloy; CP analysis; electrochemical calculations; modeling investigations; Sw.

This review overviews recent advancements in studying corrosion scales formed on CS and low alloy steel surfaces in CO2/H2S environments. It discusses the chemical reactions, kinetics, mechanisms, classifications, influential factors, formation rates, types, and inhibitive properties of corrosion product scales that develop on steel surfaces. It thoroughly investigates phase transitions, the nature and composition of corrosion product scales, and their impact on the corrosion process by influencing the kinetics of anodic reaction (metal dissolution) and/or cathodic reaction (oxygen reduction/HER), which protect the corroding steel surfaces. Lastly, it emphasizes crucial research areas, knowledge gaps, future perspectives, and approaches for scale mitigation. Keywords: CO2/H2S corrosion; steel corrosion, corrosion mechanisms; corrosion scales; FeCO3; FeS.

MS is a very versatile and useful alloy in metal industry, since it is available and affordable, but it is prone to corrosion. This study investigated MS corrosion inhibition by modifying Zn₃(PO₄)2 bath with MgO and, then, with combined MgO and CaO additives. Different phosphating times (40, 60 and 80 min) and T (65 and 80 °C) were considered. Ct from 0 to 1.8 g/L MgO and combined MgO/CaO additives were added to Zn₃(PO₄)2 bath. SEM analysis of the coated samples was carried out. The specimens were also immersed in 3.5 wt% NaCl, for WL testing. Obtained results showed that the highest IE(%) of 56% was obtained for the MS sample at a phosphating T of 65 °C and Ct of 1.8 g/L MgO additive. For combined MgO and CaO additive, an IE(%) of 32% was obtained, at 65 °C, with a Ct of 0.9 g/L. MgO and CaO adsorption process (separately and combined) onto MS followed Freundlich’s adsorption model. ΔG indicated a physical adsorption process, and ΔH indicated an exothermic adsorption process, while ΔS during coating revealed a decrease in the process randomness degree. Keywords: Ca additive; corrosion; Mg additive; MS; Zn phosphating.

This study investigated a method for sustainable energy production which involved extracting lignin from waste Bm (AS, BTB, NTB and WnS), to use it as an energy source. The main goal was to advance alternative resources for producing transportation fuels and commodity chemicals, paving the way for a carbon-emission-free future. A pretreatment procedure was conducted, using methods such as EDX, SEM, TGA, proximate and ultimate analyses, to examine extracted lignin. Herein, WnS displayed the highest Bm-derived lignin Ct. BTB and NTB exhibited highest Ct from S, while, remarkably, AS showed the lowest one. NTB extraction process investigation revealed that minimum and maximum yields, at 2 and 3 h, produced lignin Ct of 6 and 8%, respectively. Similarly, BTB yielded 12 and 13% lignin, after 1 and 2 h, respectively. The study indicated that WnS possessed the highest lignin Ct. Furthermore, it was seen that varying certain parameters increased lignin yield. Keywords: biofuel; Bm; chemical treatment; green energy; lignin cellulose; production; renewable energy.

Herein, accurate voltammetric techniques were used for investigating Aza compound at an Au electrode in an aqueous universal BRB solution with pH 4.0 and at room temperature. Employed voltammetric methods were CV, ConvV and DeconvV, at various SR in the range from 40 to 800 mV/s. DSM was used to confirm experimental electrochemical parameters, and to identify the nature of the electrode reaction mechanistic pathway. Recorded CV revealed an uni-directional irreversible sharp anodic peak (Ep = 0.541 mV) in a BRB with pH 4.0. It indicated that the oxidation process was moderately fast. Electrons consumed in the electrode reaction were two. ConvV and DeconvV supported the presence of a chemical step coupled with electron transfer, due to the absence of the cathodic peak coupled in the reverse scan. Oxidative peak sharpness indicated some Aza adsorption control at the Au electrode surface. Keywords: Aza; DSM; electrochemical parameters; electrode reaction; voltammetric techniques.

Electrochemical and AA study of a new heterocyclic Schiff base (L1) was herein carried out for the first time. Electrochemical results and AA tests were performed using PDP, in vitro, by ABTS, C40H56/C18H32O2, DPPH and FRAP, respectively. IE(%) of this compound against corrosion of MS, immersed in a KOH simulated concrete solution (pH of 13.5), with 0.8 M Cl-, was investigated. Electrochemical results showed that L1 was a good CI, even at low Ct (from 10-3 to 10-6 M; τinhib > 98%), the best scavenger in DPPH and ABTS (IC50: 0.022 ± 0.00 and 0.003 ± 7.92E-05 μg/mL, respectively), and the most active in C40H56/C18H32O2 test, with a an IE(%) of 80.22 ± 1.58%. L1 exhibited a significant reducing capacity (A0.5: 0.008 ± 0.00 mg/mL) analogous to that obtained for Trolox (A0.5: 0.008 ± 9.14 05 mg/mL). This study demonstrated L1 good IE(%) and AA. Keywords: ABTS; AA; CI; DPPH; IE(%); L1

Abstract YSZ is a compound with an important role in electrochemistry applications, due to its high electrical conductivity. It is commonly used as electrolyte in solid-oxide fuel cells. Several studies have also suggested additional uses of this material as a proton conductor, when grown in Nc form. The present research reports combined theoretical and experimental results that examined the incorporation and properties of proton defect in YSZ. The calculations were based on DFT and NEB methods. MSS was also performed by studying muons evolution, a lighter hydrogen particle with non-zero spin. The results provided vital information on the formation energetics of proton defect, its migration behavior and electronic structure. Keywords: DFT; MSS; NEB; YSZ.