Urchin-like hollow SiO2@γ-MnO2 microparticles for the rapid degradation of organic dyes

In this paper, using hollow silica microspheres as carrier, we developed a facile method for preparation of a novel kind of hollow urchin-like SiO2@γ-MnO2 microparticles with excellent performance for rapid oxidation degradation of organic dyes.

Silica Microspheres for Economical Advanced Solar Applications

This article aims to improve the toughness of pre-packaged grouts (PPG) by incorporating crumb rubber. The mechanism for toughness of PPG with crumb rubber was analyzed based on the uniaxial compression model. Crumb rubber with surfaces treated by different methods (NaOH solutions or microwave treatment) was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of mesh sizes, amounts, surface-treated methods of crumb rubber, and mixing procedures on the PPG’s mechanical strength and rheological properties were investigated. The results showed that, firstly, the addition of crumb rubber improves the PPG’s toughness, while its mechanical strength is reduced. Adding NaOH solutions or microwave-treated crumb rubber into PPG can weaken the negative effects of crumb rubber on the PPG’s mechanical strength; however, this function is limited. Secondly, the crumb rubber grouts’ rheological properties can be fully exploited by increasing the stirring rate and time so that the fluidity of crumb rubber grouts is improved, which fulfils the characteristics of no bleeding and micro-expansion. Finally, the optimal formula and mixing technique of crumb rubber grouts were proposed in this paper. The results of this paper can provide a significant reference for the application of scrap tires.

Silica Microspheres-in-Pores Composite Monoliths with Fluorescence and Potential for Water Remediation

Water pollution is a severe worldwide issue. Constructing advanced porous composite materials has been an efficient route to water remediation via adsorption. In this study, a unique microspheres-in-pores monolithic structure was fabricated. An emulsion-templated polymer monolith was first prepared and silica microspheres were subsequently formed in the porous polymer. A silica precursor was modified with a fluorescent dye and co-condensed with other precursors to fabricate porous composites with fluorescent properties, which were enhanced by the presence of Ag nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. This unique material showed good promise in water remediation by removing organic dyes and heavy metal ions from wastewater via a flowing filter or monolithic column separation.