Synthesising graphene with renewably-sourced bio-carbon precursors: a brief review

Graphene is a 2D material with exceptional properties that surpass those of many other materials in many respects. Conventional methods of graphene synthesis heavily rely on gaseous carbon (C) precursors, primarily hydrocarbons; such as methane or ethylene; that have significantly negative effects on the environment. The global shift towards sustainability and eco-conscious practices has increased the need for graphene production methods that are sustainable. As such, multiple studies have explored alternative sources of C, particularly bio-based materials, as well as waste-to-value processes. Reusing bio-based materials as C-based precursors not only addresses the urgent need for C sources that are sustainable and environmentally friendly but effectively creates a circular economy in the materials science and technology industry. As such, this present study explores the methods of synthesising, applying, and optimising the conversion of bio-based renewable solid carbon (SC) and liquid carbon (LC) precursors derived from a diverse range of C sources; such as lignocellulosic biomass, agricultural residues, and everyday vegetable oils; into high-quality graphene. The findings emphasise the promising role of renewable SC and LC precursors in the pursuit of sustainable and environmentally responsible methods of graphene production

An Overview of Chitosan Nanofibers and their Applications in the Drug Delivery Process

Chitosan is a polycationic natural polymer which is abundant in nature. Chitosan has gained much attention as natural polymer in the biomedical field. The up to date drug delivery as well as the nanotechnology in controlled release of drugs from chitosan nanofibers are focused in this review. Electrospinning is one of the most established and widely used techniques for preparing nanofibers. This method is versatile and efficient for the production of continuous nanofibers. The chitosan-based nanofibers are emerging materials in the arena of biomaterials. Recent studies revealed that various drugs such as antibiotics, chemotherapeutic agents, proteins and anti-inflammatory analgesic drugs were successfully loaded onto electrospun nanofibers. Chitosan nanofibers have several outstanding properties for different significant pharmaceutical applications such as wound dressing, tissue engineering, enzyme immobilization, and drug delivery systems. This review highlights different issues of chitosan nanofibers in drug delivery applications, starting from the preparation of chitosan nanofibers, followed by giving an idea about the biocompatibility and degradation of chitosan nanofibers, then describing how to load the drug into the nanofibers. Finally, the major applications of chitosan nanofibers in drug delivery systems