Madihan Yusof^1,2,3,*, Muhamad Saiful Sulaiman^1,3, Ros Syazmini Mohd Ghani^1,3,4, Sofiyah Mohd Razali^1,5

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0101

Abstract This study investigates the development of an oil palm trunk (OPT) high-performance flame-retardant composite derived from an inexpensive and sustainable biomass source, processed using sodium chloride (NaCl) as a low-cost flame retardant, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as an adhesive, and calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) as an additive. The work aims to address the inherent flammability of OPT and to enhance its mechanical performance, dimensional stability, and fire resistance in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective manner. Results indicate that a 10% NaCl treatment optimally improves the performance of the composite, increasing bending strength (MOR) from 5.95 to 12.61 MPa… More > Graphic Abstract

Naile Karakehya^1,2,*

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0131

Abstract In the early years of the Industrial Revolution, the extensive use of fossil resources and energy-intensive production methods was widely accepted, even celebrated, as signs of progress. However, growing concerns over environmental degradation, resource depletion, and climate change have necessitated a transition toward more sustainable and environmentally responsible production strategies. Within this context, wick-and-oil flame synthesis has emerged as a simple, energy-efficient, and cost-effective method that utilizes natural oils as both fuel and renewable carbon sources for the generation of carbon nanoparticles, particularly carbon nano-onions. This review presents a comprehensive overview of this emerging synthesis… More > Graphic Abstract

Omojola Awogbemi^1,*, Daramy Vandi Von Kallon¹, Ramesh C. Ray²

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0112

Abstract Increased human and industrial activities have exacerbated the release of toxic materials and acute environmental pollution in recent times. Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass, is gaining momentum as a versatile material for attaining a sustainable environment. The study reviews the application of functionalized biochar for energy storage, environmental remediation, catalysis, and sustainable agriculture, aiming to achieve a greener future. The deployment of crop residues as a renewable feedstock for biochar, and their properties, compositions, modification, and functionalization techniques are also discussed. Additionally, the avenues for applying functionalized biochar to achieve a greener future,… More > Graphic Abstract

Dmitry S. Konovalov¹, Natalia N. Saprykina², Vjacheslav V. Zuev^1,2,*

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0079

Abstract In this study, the polyurethanes (PU) were synthesized from 4,4^′-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate and biobased ethoxylated castor oil or one mixture of ethoxylated and neat castor oil by direct mixing method. Utilization of ethoxylated castor oil increases the tensile strength of PU up to 2.75 times (from 3.2 to 8.8 MPa), compared to PU based on neat castor oil. The PU composites filled with birch flour, diatomite, and their mixture were prepared using a homemade dissolver with a cutter-shaped attachment at a speed of 1500 r min⁻¹. The tensile strength of PU composites filled with birch flour… More > Graphic Abstract

Ksenia Saerova^*, Ruslan Safin

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0076

Abstract This article presents research focused on developing and scientifically substantiating a technology for producing environmentally friendly glued structures from wood treated through a two-stage process. The methodology involves preliminary thermal modification followed by high-frequency low-temperature plasma treatment. Thermal modification enhances performance characteristics such as resistance to rot, lowers hygroscopicity, and increases dimensional stability. However, it can diminish the adhesive properties of wood, complicating the bonding process. To address this challenge, the study introduces high-frequency low-temperature plasma treatment, which activates the wood surface, improving wettability and adhesion while minimizing glue consumption. Experimental results indicate that plasma More >

Luthfi Hakim^1,*, Yunida Syafriani Lubis², Apri Heri Iswanto¹, Harisyah Manurung¹, Jayusman², Widya Fatriasari³, Petar Antov⁴, Tomasz Rogoziński⁵, Lee Seng Hua⁶, Nur Izyan Wan Azelee⁷

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0078

Abstract Activated charcoals were synthesized from sugar palm bunches (SPB) of the native tree of Arenga longipes in Indonesia. The synthesized activated charcoal (AC) was characterized, and utilized as an absorbent for heavy metals (lead/Pb and copper/Cu) through thermal activation. The synthesis of AC was accomplished through furnace activation at temperatures of 500°C, 600°C, 700°C, and 800°C. Acid chlorides were blended with the SPB-AC samples at 5% impregnation level and subsequently subjected to washing for activation, resulting in the elimination of volatile substances and ash content, which facilitates the development of a porous structure in the activated… More >

Yihang Tang¹, Jing Li¹, Wentao Xu¹, Yao Xiao¹, Jiayi Deng¹, Ge Rong¹, Jin Zhao², Song Xu¹, Man Zhou^1,*, Zhongyu Li^3,*

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0065

Abstract Natural fibers, as a typical renewable and biodegradable material, have shown great potential for many applications (e.g., catalysis, hydrogel, biomedicine) in recent years. Recently, the growing importance of natural fibers in these photo-driven applications is reflected by the increasing number of publications. The utilization of renewable materials in photo-driven applications not only contributes to mitigating the energy crisis but also facilitates the transition of society toward a low-carbon economy, thus enabling harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment within the context of sustainable development. This paper provides an overview of the recent advances of natural… More > Graphic Abstract

Cheng Yong^1,2,3,4,5, Enhui Sun^1,*, Xiaodong Fan^1,4, Zhiping Zhang⁵, Jing Zhang¹, Ling Chen¹, Ping Qu¹, Qiujun Wang¹, Hongying Huang¹, Hongmei Jin¹, Mingjie Guan^4,*

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0059

Abstract Long-time fermentation has always been one of the reasons restricting the development of straw biological pulping. This study aimed to develop a novel straw pulp film with shortened solid-state fermentation time with less than 20% mass loss rate by bio-pulping synergistic treatment of straw fibers with deep eutectic solvent (DES) and Streptomyces rochei (S. rochei). Results illustrated that at 3% S. rochei concentration with 7-day fermentation, both cellulose and hemicellulose enzyme activities of the treated rice straw fiber reached peak values with a fiber mass loss rate of 17.01%. Microstructural morphology revealed that S. rochei colonization initiated on straw… More > Graphic Abstract

Valentina Sergeevna Borovkova^1,2,*, Yuriy Nikolaevich Malyar^1,2, Vladislav Alexandrovich Ionin^1,2, Alexander Sergeevich Kazachenko^1,2

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0067

Abstract The valorization of plant biomass towards high-value chemicals is a global trend aimed at solving the problem of the huge accumulation of lignocellulosic waste. Plant polysaccharides are natural polymers that make up about 20% by weight of biomass, with a unique variety of structures and properties that depend on the type of raw materials and the method of their extraction. In this study, the effect of variability of the oxidative delignification process conditions in the «acetic acid-hydrogen peroxide-water-(NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄» on the extraction and properties of aspen (Populus tremula) wood hemicelluloses was investigated for the first time. The developed… More > Graphic Abstract

Lucila M. Curi^*, Maria C. Area, Maria E. Vallejos

Journal of Renewable Materials, DOI:10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0069

Abstract The global demand for renewable and sustainable non-petroleum-based resources is rapidly increasing. Lignocellulosic biomass is a valuable resource with broad potential for nanocellulose (NC) production. However, limited studies are available regarding the potential toxicological impact of NC. We provide an overview of the nanosafety implications associated mainly with nanofibrillated cellulose (CNF) and identify knowledge gaps. For this purpose, we present an analysis of the studies published from 2014 to 2025 in which the authors mention aspects related to toxicity in the context of packaging. We also analyze the main methods used for toxicity evaluations and… More > Graphic Abstract