Ceramic Templated Approach for Functional Humic Acid Based Hybrid Nanocomposites
by
Virginia Venezia
University of Naples Federico II, Italy
Humic acids (HA), extracted from bio-waste, possess valuable properties such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and metal-chelating capabilities. However, their use is constrained by instability and rapid degradation in aqueous environments. This research addresses these challenges by utilizing the sol-gel method with a ceramic templated approach to create hybrid nanomaterials that integrate HA with inorganic matrices such as SiO2, TiO2, and ZnO. This technique enhances the stability and functionality of HA, leveraging the templating effect of the inorganic components.
The research involves synthesizing HA-based hybrids through sol-gel processes, where the inorganic matrix provides structural support and stability, thereby preserving the functional properties of HA. For example, HA/TiO2 hybrids exhibit enhanced photocatalytic and anti-bacterial properties, making them suitable for water treatment and pathogen control. HA/SiO2 hybrids show improved colloidal stability and antioxidant activity, while HA/ZnO composites offer effective pollutant removal and redox capabilities.
In addition, the ceramic templated approach is combined with electrospinning technology to produce advanced nano composite films. These films integrate HA with inorganic nanoparticles into electrospun biodegradable polymers, resulting in active packaging materials with superior antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This innovative approach not only enhances the performance of HA but also demonstrates practical applications in sustainable packaging and environmental remediation, effectively converting bio-waste into high-value materials.
It is our pleasure to invite you to join the ISGS eSeminar for October 2024, which will be delivered by Dr Virginia Venezia on Thursday 24 October. Virginia joins us from the University of Naples Federico II, where she recently completed her PhD and was awarded the ISGS PhD Thesis Award for 2023 for her outstanding research. Please click here to learn more about her research and evolving career journey to date, and do please join us to support the work of one of our remarkable early-career scientists, the future leaders of our community.
Date: Thursday 24 October 2024
Format:
- ZOOM (eSeminar link), Meeting ID: 307 291 6432
- Passcode: 9K#11)Ek
Time:
- 09:00 – USA (East Coast)
- 10:00 – Chile, Brazil (São Paulo) and Argentina
- 14:00 – UTC
- 14:00 – UK, Portugal
- 15:00 – Central Europe, Sweden, Italy
- 16:00 – Romania, Israel, Eastern Europe, Ukraine
- 16:00 – Russia (Moscow, St Petersburg)
- 21:00 – China, Singapore, Malaysia
- 22:00 – Japan, Korea
- 23:00 – Australia (East Coast)
