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Immobilization of smectite clay onto a desirable surface has received much attention, since its nanospace can be utilized for many applications in material science. Here, we present an efficient method to functionalize surface of bentonite nanoclay (BNC) through the grafting of 3-aminotriethoxysilane (APTES). Infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis confirmed the presence of organic chains and amine groups in modified nanoclay. XRD analysis confirmed grafting of APTES on the surface of bentonite nanoclay without intercalation. The accomplishment of the surface modification was quantitatively proved by TGA analysis. Modified BNC can covalently couple with different material surfaces, allowing its nanospace to be utilized for intercalation of cations, bio-molecules, and polymeric materials, to be used in advanced military aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and many other commercial applications.

With the increasing complexity of human lifestyles, the demand for functionalized or high-performance textile materials has seen a steep rise. However, the methods of producing thereof are still creating a negative impact on the environment. Although biomimicry is a possible means of catering for this demand, most of the emerging biomimetic technologies follow an unsustainable path, accentuated only on transferring functionalities of nature, by using chemical-intensive applications. Nevertheless, biomimicry holds promise in sustainable manufacturing, if toxic chemical usage can be reduced while structural applications are increased. This study reviews the possibilities of existing and futuristic textile technologies that could facilitate conscious biomimicking of functional textiles, rather than intense application of chemicals. A total of 283 research articles were initially obtained and screened to review the possibilities of combining biomimetic technologies with textile manufacturing technologies. Prospects of innovative textile technologies and additive manufacturing on the futuristic possibilities of structural mimicking of biological functionalities into textile materials are discussed comprehensively. Possible construction methods, including additive manufacturing and weaving in the micro/nano scale, are suggested for structural mimicking. It is also recommended to unfold the potential of biomimicry in producing functional textiles in order to alleviate the harmful impact already caused to the environment by the textile industry.

AbstractIn this study, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) modified montmorillonite (MMT) which is called as organoclay (OMMT) was mixed with natural rubber, and masterbatches were produced using the acid-free co-coagulation (AFCC) method in the presence of a combined gelling agent, a mixture of CTAB and sodium dodecyl sulfate. The OMMT was further modified by grafting of bis(triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide as to reduce the surface energy in silanated organoclay (OMMT-S). As expected, the nanocomposites prepared with OMMT-S compared to those with OMMT exhibited greater mechanical properties due to the development of rubber–clay interactions and due to proper dispersion of small clay layers in the rubber matrix combined with the gelling agent. The improvement of elongation at break, hardness and tear strength of the nanocomposites with OMMT/OMMT-S was an added advantage when the nanocomposites are prepared using the AFCC method without having any adverse effect from the combined gelling agent.

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Magnesium plays a key role in the growth of a plant by acting as the central atom of the chlorophyll molecule.This study is carried out to develop a low-cost multi-nutrient fertilizer by utilizing the bittern solution. This fertilizer is capable of fulfilling the Magnesium, Potassium and Calcium requirement of a plant effectively. A dilution series of bittern was prepared, and a series of tests was carried out to demonstrate the importance of multi-nutrient fertilizer to the growth of a plant. This fertilizer contains 1.27%, 0.31% and 0.01% of highly water soluble Magnesium, Potassium and Calcium respectively to cater the short term requirement of a plant.Developing an indigenous source of supply for fertilizer is important both for the agricultural and strategic reasons. The major drawback of conventional salt production has been overcome by using bittern to produce a multi-nutrient source for plants. It could also mitigate negative environmental impacts by successfully controlling pollutant discharge. Therefore, this novel process can be considered as a comprehensive solution towards sustainable development.