| 1. |
- Adolfsson, Karin, et al.
(author)
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Cellulose-derived hydrothermally carbonized materials and their emerging applications
- 2020
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 23, s. 18-24
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Hydrothermally carbonized cellulose and its further modifications are intriguing materials for a wide range of potential applications. Hydrothermal carbonization is a sustainable process for converting biopolymers or other biomass sources into carbonaceous materials under mild conditions in water and at relatively low temperatures. This review presents the latest progress in modification and utilization of hydrothermally carbonized cellulose and related materials in environmental, biomedical, and energy applications. Further applications presented include evaluation of cellulose-derived carbon spheres or carbon dots as catalysts, antibacterial materials, flame retardants, and functional fillers in bioplastic composites. The wide range of applications highlights the great potential and multifunctionality of hydrothermally carbonized cellulose and its derivatives. The field is expected to further expand and increase in importance as we move toward circular bioeconomy.
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| 2. |
- Apel, Christina, et al.
(author)
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Safe-and-sustainable-by-design: State of the art approaches and lessons learned from value chain perspectives
- 2024
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - Stockholm : IVL Svenska Miljöinstitutet. - 2452-2236. ; 45, s. 100876-100876
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Safe-and-sustainable-by-design (SSbD) is central in the European Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, yet a common understanding of what SSbD is in concept and in practice isstill needed. A comparison of current SSbD descriptions and approaches was made and lessons learned were derived from value chain discussions (packaging, textile, construction,automotive, energy materials, electronics, and fragrances value chains) to help provide input on how to implement SSbD in practice.Five important building blocks were identified:design, data, risk and sustainability governance, competencies, and social and corporate strategic needs. Other lessons learned include the identification of the biggest safety andsustainability challenges in a lifecycle-thinking approach towards the development of purpose-driven innovations, and connecting trans-disciplinary experts to the innovation process, already from the early phases. A clear understanding of what SSbD is and how to implement the SSbD framework is needed with clear procedures and incentives to support the industrial sector, especially SMEs.
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| 3. |
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| 4. |
- Galkin, Maxim
(author)
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From stabilization strategies to tailor-made lignin macromolecules and oligomers for materials
- 2021
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In: CURRENT OPINION IN GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 28
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Lignocellulose is a renewable and sustainable resource. It includes terrestrial plants and part of nonedible waste streams of current industries. This raw material is an alternative carbon source for fossils. Lignin from lignocellulosic biomass is undervalorized. This aromatic biomacromolecule that is used as a fuel offers many striking properties such as high thermal stability, biodegradability, UV-blocking, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. Recent advances in biomass fractionation provide tailoring of lignin properties in-situ. Outlined innovative methods should ease lignin upgrading toward advanced engineered materials at no extra refining steps, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and maximizing the biomass utilization.
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| 5. |
- Ghajeri, Farnaz, et al.
(author)
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Case Study of a Green Nanoporous Material from Synthesis to Commercialisation : Quartzene®
- 2018
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 12, s. 101-109
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Synthetic amorphous silicas with high porosity (94–97%) are introduced and various pathways for their synthesis are presented. The materials have structures with high surface area (300–750 m2/g) and are commercialised under the name of Quartzene®. Low cost silica sources and ambient pressure drying enable production in large scale with approximately 70% cost reduction as compared to conventional method silica aerogels. The structure is analysed, properties are reported as low density (0.04–0.15 g/ml), low thermal conductivity (24–26 mW/m·K), etc. Formaldehyde gas adsorption tests reveal that the uptake level of samples made by Quartzene® is significantly increased as compared to commercially available adsorbents. Thermal conductivity at elevated temperatures for mixtures of Quartzene® and stone wool shows a 23% reduction at 650 °C as compared to pure stone wool. Scaling up process for this green material meeting environmental sustainability demands in industrial manufacturing is discussed and challenges/current developments are presented.
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| 6. |
- Hedin, Niklas, et al.
(author)
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Perspectives on the adsorption of CO2 on amine-modified silica studied by infrared spectroscopy
- 2019
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 16, s. 13-19
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Amine-modified adsorbents are being researched for their potential to capture CO2 from various gas mixtures, and we review how IR spectroscopy has been used to study the associated CO2-amine chemistry. It has been used to reveal that CO2 chemisorbs as ammonium-carbamate ion pairs especially when the amine density is high. Carbamic acid and related other moieties tend to form in parallel to the ion pairs when the amine density is low. The amines have been shown to degrade on cyclic heat treatment. To further study the formation of bicarbonates on reactive adsorption of CO2 and H2O, degradation of the organics, and the use of other supports than silica are suggested.
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| 7. |
- Isogai, Akira, et al.
(author)
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Preparation of cellulose nanofibers using green and sustainable chemistry
- 2018
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 12, s. 15-21
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The development of green and sustainable routes to liberate crystalline cellulose microfibrils from plant cell walls is of utmost importance to enable development of the large-scale production of sustainable nanomaterials based on renewable resources. The catalytic oxidation of cellulose using 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO) under aqueous conditions at room temperature is a position-selective and efficient chemical modification. TEMPO-mediated oxidation of plant cellulose fibers, followed by gentle mechanical disintegration of the oxidized celluloses in water, results in the formation of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNs) with homogeneous widths (similar to 3 nm) and high aspect ratios. TOCNs are characteristic bio-based materials with high tensile strengths and elastic moduli. Sodium carboxylate groups are densely present on the crystalline TOCN surfaces and can undergo counterion exchange from sodium to other metal or alkylammonium ions under aqueous conditions. The hydrophilic/hydrophobic, stable/biodegradable, super deodorant, catalytic, and other functionalities of TOCNs can be controlled through counterion exchange.
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| 8. |
- Kalita, Naba Kumar, et al.
(author)
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Integrating biodegradable polyesters in a circular economy
- 2023
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In: CURRENT OPINION IN GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 40
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This review presents an overview of recent scientific developments and innovations aiming to integrate biodegradable polyesters into the circular economy. We especially concentrate on the development of different end-of-life management options for biodegradable polyesters including mechanical, chemical and organic recycling (composting or biodegradation in specified environments). Polymer materials in general are crucial for sustainable development, but we need to rethink and redesign to incorporate them in circular material flows. Biodegradable polyesters have all the prerequisites to become fully compatible with the principles of the circular economy. The development of polyesters with balanced material properties, ment routes will be a step forward to reduce and eliminate plastic waste accumulation.
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| 9. |
- Lawoko, Martin, et al.
(author)
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Kraft lignin valorization : Biofuels and thermoset materials in focus
- 2023
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 40
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Kraft pulping is more than one hundred years old. The kraft lignin recovery has however been implemented commercially in the last ten years. The lignin is a bio-based by-product and is thus considered a sustainable material with a great potential. These aspects have sparked intense research and development efforts to valorize kraft lignin. This Opinion provides a snapshot of the current state of affairs in the field, highlighting recent examples that either manipulate the kraft lignin to thermoset materials or depolymerize the lignin to obtain biofuels.
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| 10. |
- Liu, Yanrong, et al.
(author)
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Recent progress on electrochemical reduction of CO2 to methanol
- 2020
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 23, s. 10-17
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Methanol is a future energy carrier because of its high volume-specific energy density and a significant intermediate for many bulk chemicals. Electrochemical reduction (ECR) is a promising method to fabricate methanol (CH3OH) from carbon dioxide (CO2) where electrocatalyst, reactor configuration and electrode play an essential role. In this review, seven types of electrocatalysts, i.e., metal alloys, metal oxides, metal chalcogenides and carbides, metal-organic complexes, metal-free, pyridine and MOF-based electrocatalyts, as well as the effect of reactor configuration and electrode were comprehensively summarized. Finally, challenges and perspectives on developing electrocatalysts were highlighted.
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| 11. |
- Meszaros, Livia S., et al.
(author)
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Semi-synthetic hydrogenases—in vitro and in vivo applications
- 2021
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 32
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Hydrogenases are gas processing redox enzymes central in hydrogen metabolism. The interdisciplinary nature of hydrogenase research is underscored by the development of “artificial maturation”, enabling the preparation of semi-synthetic hydrogenases through the incorporation of synthetic cofactors into a range of apo-hydrogenase hosts under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Herein, we discuss how the preparation of such semi-synthetic [FeFe]-hydrogenases has elucidated structural elements of the cofactor critical for catalysis and reactivity towards known inhibitors. It has also provided a convenient method for exploring the biodiversity of this enzyme family and thereby facilitated investigation of the role of the outer-coordination sphere in tuning the reactivity of the Hcluster. In parallel, hijacking the assembly line of the [FeFe]-hydrogenase through incorporation of synthetic precursors has provided detailed insight into the biosynthesis of the H-cluster. Moreover, it has allowed the preparation of Mn analogs of [Fe] hydrogenase.
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| 12. |
- Naqvi, Salman Raza, et al.
(author)
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Techno economic analysis for advanced methods of green hydrogen production
- 2024
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 48
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In the ongoing effort to reduce carbon emissions on a worldwide scale, green hydrogen, which is generated through environmentally responsible processes, has emerged as a significant driving force. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, it is becoming increasingly important to have a solid understanding of the technological and economic elements of modern techniques of producing green hydrogen. In the context of green hydrogen generation understanding green hydrogen production’s techno-economic features is necessary to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy associated with breakthroughs in technology, the present study examines the most fascinating and relevant aspects of techno-economic analysis. Despite challenges, green hydrogen can help the world move to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future with solid analytical frameworks and legislation.
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| 13. |
- Platzer Björkman, Charlotte, 1976-
(author)
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Kesterite compound semiconductors for thin film solar cells
- 2017
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV. - 2452-2236. ; 4, s. 84-90
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Thin film solar cells based on Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)(4), "CZTS", are attractive by combining high light absorption and high abundance of constituent elements. The efficiency of CZTS solar cells developed rapidly during the last decades, but significant improvements are still needed to reach commercially viable levels. This review covers the most recent trends in CZTS research; (i) alloying with new elements, (ii) exchange of CdS buffer layer with alternative materials, (iii) back contact engineering and (iv) defect studies as a function of compositional variations and annealing. Better understanding of the material and device limitations is expected to emerge from this research. In the perspective of large scale use of CZTS modules, non-toxicity and earth-abundance cannot be compromised in the view of competition with commercially mature CdTe and CIGS technologies. Large band gap kesterite derivatives for stable top cells in tandem solar cells is an interesting and less explored field meriting more attention.
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| 14. |
- Pyo, Sang Hyun, et al.
(author)
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Dimethyl carbonate as a green chemical
- 2017
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 5, s. 61-66
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Dimethyl carbonate (DMC) is an established solvent and a green reagent which continues to attract attention. It is a nonpolar aprotic solvent with good miscibility with water, biodegrades readily in the atmosphere, and is non-toxic. DMC is classified in the greenest “recommended” bracket according to the solvent selection guide, and can be a potential replacement for methyl ethyl ketone, ethyl acetate, methyl isobutyl ketone, and most other ketones. Currently, the most prevalent commercial pathway for the production of DMC is through oxidative carbonylation of methanol using O2; in addition, new alternative processes for DMC from CO2 are being developed. DMC has found several applications such as the electrolyte in lithium rechargeable batteries and as a solvent in several reactions including pharmaceutically relevant synthesis and in biocatalysis. This report provides a brief overview of physical-thermodynamic-, toxicological- and ecotoxicological properties, production methods, reactivity, and applications of DMC as an environmentally benign chemical in chemical- and biotechnical processes.
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| 15. |
- Rahman, Mohammad Z., et al.
(author)
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Biochar for electrochemical applications
- 2020
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : ELSEVIER. - 2452-2236. ; 23, s. 25-30
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Carbon-rich biochar can be produced by pyrolysis of biomass. Depending on the precise production pathway, the surface chemistry and porosity can be tuned and made compatible for a defined application. This shear benefit has persuaded researcher to explore its suitability in various electrochemical applications related to energy storage and conversion. In this article, we succinctly discuss the potentials of biochar in electrocatalysis, fuel cell, supercapacitors, and rechargeable batteries. We have concluded this article with recommenda-tions for future research.
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| 16. |
- Sjöström, Jesper, et al.
(author)
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Eco-reflexive chemical thinking and action
- 2018
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 2452-2236. ; 13, s. 16-20
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Given the nature of modern societies and the global challenges that we face, chemistry education has to be reconceptualized to open diverse opportunities for students to critically and reflexively question and engage with the world they live in. This reconceptualization demands developing and adopting curricula and instructional approaches that foster eco-reflexive chemical thinking and action as students explore complex systems and phenomena of relevance to them and their communities. In this paper, we elaborate on this educational perspective by incorporating current ideas on eco-reflexive Bildung and education. In particular, we frame the thinking, learning, knowing and practice of chemistry taking into consideration moral-philosophical-existential-political alternatives.
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| 17. |
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| 18. |
- Unger, Eva L.
(author)
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The PV-Researcher's Siren : Hybrid metal halide perovskites
- 2017
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 4, s. 72-76
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Metal-halide perovskite semiconductors are certainly one of the hottest topic in solar energy conversion. Optimization of both the absorber material and device architecture has led to an astoundingly rapid increase in the reported device efficiencies. Initially developed in the context of dye-sensitized solar cell research, metal-halide perovskite devices now reach efficiency values and hence need to be compared to more conventional photovoltaic technologies such as silicon, copper indium gallium diselenide and cadmium telluride. Strong direct band gap absorption, long charge carrier diffusion length, ease and flexibility in processing at low temperatures and facile tunability makes these materials ideal for solar energy conversion applications. This review will both reflect on favorable properties of these hybrid and ionic semiconductors as well as reflecting on lead toxicity, material and device stability as the most critical issues that need to be solved in order for these materials to become technologically viable.
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| 19. |
- Zhou, Xianjing, et al.
(author)
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Poly(ionic liquid)s : Platform for CO2 capture and catalysis
- 2019
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 16, s. 39-46
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Capture and conversion of CO2 are of great importance for environment-friendly and sustainable development of human society. Poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) combine some unique properties of ILs with those of polymers and are versatile materials for CO2 utilization. In this contribution, we briefly outline innovative PILs emerged over the past few years, such as polytriazoliums, deep eutectic monomer-based PILs, and polyurethane PILs. Additionally, we discuss their advantages and challenges as materials for carbon capture and storage and the fixation of CO2 into useful materials.
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| 20. |
- Zhu, Ping, et al.
(author)
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New synthetic approaches to biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass
- 2020
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In: Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry. - : Elsevier BV. - 2452-2236. ; 21, s. 16-21
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Lignocellulose from terrestrial plant biomass is abundant and contains polymeric carbohydrates and lignin; both recognized as attractive renewable feedstocks for energy, chemicals and materials as alternatives to fossils to meet the targets for future sustainable development. Liquid biofuels are particularly important renewable commodities because of the vast infrastructure already in place to use them, especially for transportation, and efficient synthetic approaches and viable commercial manufacture processes are under development for both drop-in fuels and new fuel compounds. This work surveys the recent trends in lignocellulosic biomass conversion into fuels, and highlights innovative synthetic approaches based on novel chemo- and bio-catalyst systems and process strategies using biomass-derived carbohydrates and technical lignin.
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