Journal of Applied Research in Chemical-Polymer Engineering

Abstract Research subject: This study focuses on the development and evaluation of mucoadhesive nanoparticles containing midazolam, formulated using a polymer blend of carbomer 934P (Cb) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) for pediatric epilepsy treatment. Epilepsy, being one of the most prevalent neurological disorders in children, necessitates advanced drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Research approach: This study employed the emulsion-solvent evaporation technique to develop mucoadhesive nanoparticles using a polymer blend of Cb and HPMC. The formulation parameters were systematically optimized to achieve the desired physicochemical properties. Comprehensive characterization was performed, including evaluation of particle morphology, size distribution, zeta potential, drug encapsulation efficiency, and loading capacity. Functional properties such as swelling behavior in physiological conditions, mucoadhesive strength, and in vitro drug release profile were thoroughly investigated to ensure optimal performance for pediatric epilepsy treatment.
Main results: Results of the evaluation of mucoadhesive nanoparticles containing midazolam demonstrated that the optimized formulation with a 2% Cb and 1% HPMC ratio exhibited an ideal nanostructure with an average size of 661 nm and uniform size distribution (PDI of 0.25). The drug delivery system showed excellent drug loading capacity with 60% encapsulation efficiency and 27% drug loading. Functional characterization revealed remarkable swelling capacity (up to 750%) under physiological conditions and significant mucoadhesive strength (8560 N/m²). Drug release studies demonstrated a controlled and sustained release pattern over 4 hours. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed the spherical and uniform morphology of the nanoparticles. These unique characteristics make the developed drug delivery system an outstanding candidate for pediatric epilepsy treatment, as it both prolongs drug effect through enhanced mucosal contact time and improves treatment compliance by reducing dosing frequency via controlled release properties.

Abstract Research subject: One of the common problems in natural gas transmission lines is congestion and pressure drop in gas transmission pipes due to the formation of gas hydrates. Gas hydrates are stable crystalline compounds that are formed from the contact of water molecules with some gas molecules of the right size and under the right thermodynamic conditions (low temperature and high pressure). These compounds are studied from both thermodynamic and kinetic perspectives. Despite many studies in the thermodynamic part of hydrates, the kinetics of hydrates require further study.
Research approach: To this end, in order to determine the equilibrium conditions of natural gas hydrate, 5 different experiments were conducted with a natural gas sample from Gas and Liquefied Gas Refinery 1300 in the temperature range of 285.5, 281.5, 276.21, 275.59, 273.92 Kelvin and pressure of 41.1, 28.2, 18.84, 13.4, 11.5 bar in a reactor using the constant volume method.
Main results: Based on the experimental data, the mass transfer coefficient was 0.243, 0.159, 0.153, 0.094, 0.131 meters per second, respectively, and the molecular diffusion coefficient was 4.516(×10-09), 4.785(×10-09), 1.175(×10-09), 2.847(×10-09), 1.147(×10-09) m2/s. These results show that with increasing reactor temperature (at constant pressure), the mass transfer coefficient decreases and the molecular diffusion coefficient increases. Also, with increasing pressure (at constant temperature), the mass transfer coefficient increases and the molecular diffusion coefficient decreases, which is consistent with empirical equations. Statistical analysis of the results revealed that the reactor pressure parameter has a greater effect on the mass transfer coefficient than temperature. Furthermore, statistical examination showed that temperature is a more influential parameter on the molecular diffusion coefficient (DAB) of natural gas in water.

Abstract Research subject: Cellulosic nanomaterials, including cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibers, and bacterial cellulose, have attracted significant attention as reinforcing agents in epoxy matrices due to their low density, high mechanical strength, suitable elastic modulus, and renewable nature. However, the inherent hydrophilicity of cellulose nanoparticles and their poor interfacial adhesion with epoxy resins impose critical limitations on the mechanical and thermal performance of epoxy nanocomposites. Consequently, surface modification of cellulosic nanomaterials has emerged as a key strategy to enhance interfacial compatibility and improve the overall properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites.
Research approach: This study presents a comprehensive review and analysis of research published between 2023 and 2025, focusing on various surface modification techniques for cellulosic nanomaterials. These techniques include silane treatments, hydrophobic coatings, esterification reactions, and other chemical modifications. The primary objective of these approaches is to reduce the hydrophilicity of cellulose nanofibers, enhance interfacial adhesion between the reinforcing phase and the epoxy matrix, and promote uniform dispersion of nanomaterials within the nanocomposite structure.
Main results: The results of this study demonstrate that surface modification of cellulose nanoparticles significantly enhances their interfacial interactions and dispersion within the epoxy matrix, leading to a noticeable increase in the onset and peak thermal degradation temperatures, a reduction in the thermal degradation rate, and a measurable increase in char residue at elevated temperatures. Improved dispersion and reduced agglomeration of nanofibers result in substantial enhancements in mechanical properties, including tensile strength, elastic modulus, and stiffness, along with improved fracture behavior and effective inhibition of crack propagation. Quantitative analysis indicates that the surface modification method, functional group chemistry and density, nanofiber loading level, and dispersion uniformity play decisive roles in optimizing both thermal stability and mechanical performance. Overall, this work provides a systematic, quantitatively driven engineering framework for the design of durable, high-performance epoxy nanocomposites suitable for high-temperature and demanding industrial applications.

Abstract Research subject: Poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) is non-biodegradable, and the widespread use of conventional plasticizers, particularly phthalates, in its formulation poses significant risks to human health and the environment. In this research, various blends of PVC and poly (lactic acid) (PLA) with different ratios were prepared in an internal mixer. The effect of PLA content, as well as the influence of various plasticizers including dioctyl phthalate (DOP), dioctyl adipate (DOA), epoxidized soybean oil (ESO), and chlorinated paraffin wax, on the mechanical and biodegradability properties was investigated. Furthermore, the role of a compatibilizer in improving the distribution of the PLA phase and increasing the compatibility between the polymers was evaluated.
Research approach: Tensile testing and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA) were performed to study the mechanical behavior. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging was used to examine the morphology and the distribution of the PLA phase. In addition, a biodegradability test was carried out to analyze the degradation behavior of samples in the environment.
Main results: The results indicated that the PVC/PLA(90/10)-DOP blend exhibited a suitable distribution of the PLA phase within the PVC matrix, whereas a poor distribution of PLA in PVC was observed in the PVC/PLA(80/20)-DOP blend. The addition of a compatibilizer to the PVC/PLA(80/20)-DOP sample led to increased uniformity in the PLA phase distribution and improved tensile strength. Samples with higher PLA content showed greater biodegradability behavior, suggesting the role of PLA as a degradability-enhancing agent. The comparison of different plasticizers indicated that several of the ones used in this research exhibit properties comparable to DOP and may be considered as effective substitutes for it. The findings suggest that the simultaneous use of PLA and appropriate plasticizers such as ESO, along with the application of a compatibilizer, is an effective method for producing PVC samples with enhanced mechanical and biodegradability properties.

Abstract Research subject: Following the implementation of primary and secondary recovery processes in hydrocarbon reservoirs, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods are employed to increase extraction efficiency further. Among the most prominent techniques within this domain is chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR), encompassing well-established methods such as polymer flooding, polymer–surfactant hybrid flooding, polymer–nanoparticle flooding, and alkaline–surfactant–polymer (ASP) flooding. Despite their proven efficacy, these conventional approaches are often hindered by high operational costs, technical and operational complexities, and potential environmental concerns. In light of these challenges, polymeric surfactants have recently emerged as a promising and viable alternative, offering the dual functionality of viscosity enhancement and interfacial tension (IFT) reduction in a single agent.
Research approach: This study presents a comprehensive review and critical evaluation of recent research efforts concerning the application of polymeric surfactants in oil recovery processes. Key mechanisms, including viscosity modulation, IFT reduction, and wettability alteration, were systematically analyzed. Furthermore, limitations associated with the synthesis of these materials, elevated production costs, and the fragmented nature of available field data were considered. The review seeks to identify performance trends and knowledge gaps to guide future investigations.
Main results: The findings indicate that, under most reservoir conditions, polymeric surfactants have the potential to significantly improve oil recovery factors. However, their widespread implementation is currently constrained by complex synthesis procedures, economic barriers, and the lack of extensive field validation. This research synthesizes the latest advancements and offers recommendations for future work, including formulation optimization, cost-reduction strategies, and the design of large-scale field trials to assess real-world performance.

Abstract Research subject: In this study, Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were first synthesized through a controlled co-precipitation method. Subsequently, a uniform silica coating was formed on the surface of iron oxide nanoparticles via the Stöber process using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as the silica precursor, resulting in core–shell Fe₃O₄@SiO₂ nanoparticles with a stable and well-organized structure. The obtained nanoparticles were then functionalized with a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) to produce a targeted and selective adsorbent for the removal of zinc ions (Zn²⁺) from aqueous solutions. The concentration of Zn²⁺ ions was determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) analysis.
Research approach: To comprehensively investigate the physical, chemical, and structural characteristics of the synthesized nanoadsorbent, various analytical techniques were employed, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).
Main results: The characterization results confirmed the formation of a coherent structure with uniform particle size distribution, good thermal stability and successful incorporation of active functional groups on the nanoparticle surface. The adsorption performance of the nanoadsorbent for Zn²⁺ ions was evaluated by studying the effects of various operational parameters, including adsorbent dosage, contact time, pH and initial metal ion concentration. Optimized results revealed that under the conditions of an adsorbent dosage of 16 mg, pH=7, an initial concentration of 0.45 mmol L⁻¹, a solution volume of 50 mL, and a contact time of 21 min, the removal efficiency of Zn²⁺ ions reached 96%, indicating the high performance of the adsorbent (107.55 mg/g). Also, isotherm studies demonstrated that the adsorption process followed the Langmuir model, suggesting a monolayer adsorption mechanism. Furthermore, kinetic analysis showed that the experimental data fitted the pseudo-second-order model, confirming that chemisorption was the dominant rate-controlling mechanism. In addition, the synthesized nanoadsorbent exhibited excellent magnetic separability, allowing for easy recovery from the aqueous solution. It also demonstrated high reusability over multiple adsorption-desorption cycles without significant loss in its adsorption performance. Therefore, the designed adsorbent can be considered a stable, efficient, and environmentally friendly system, offering a promising approach for the effective treatment of industrial wastewater containing heavy metal ions.

Abstract Research subject: Multi-component catalysts based on metal-organic frameworks (ZIF-8), combined with various additives such as cerium oxide (CeO2) and zirconium oxide (ZrO2), have been developed separately to investigate the role that metal oxides, in combination with metal-organic frameworks, play in the conversion of CO2 to Methanol. The study seeks to explore how these metal oxides interact with ZIF-8 and contribute to improving the catalytic performance for the efficient conversion of CO2 into Methanol, which is an important process for reducing CO2 emissions and producing renewable fuels.
Research approach: The structural, physical, and chemical properties of the synthesized catalysts were meticulously analyzed using a variety of advanced techniques. These included XRD, FT-IR, BET, SEM, TGA, TPR, and H2/CO2 TPD. Unlike earlier studies focusing on a single oxide, this work highlights the comparative effect of two key oxides within the same catalytic framework using advanced characterization techniques. Cerium oxide (CeO2) plays a pivotal role in the catalytic system by creating strong basic sites, which are essential for activating CO2. It also facilitates the formation of different oxidation states (Ce3+ and Ce4+), which enhance the reducibility of the catalyst and increase its specific surface area. Meanwhile, zirconium oxide (ZrO2) significantly improves the dispersion of active sites within the catalyst structure, which leads to an increase in the number of active sites available for the CO2 hydrogenation process. Moreover, a controlled thermal treatment was applied to refine the formation and distribution of these active sites, resulting in an overall enhancement in catalytic performance.
Main results: The presence of cerium oxide improves the conversion of CO2 to Methanol by introducing more abundant and active basic sites, which facilitate the reaction. On the other hand, zirconium oxide improves the dispersion of active sites across the catalyst surface, leading to a significant increase in Methanol selectivity. These two metal oxides, when used in combination, play complementary roles in improving both the efficiency and selectivity of ZIF-8-based catalysts in the hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol. The synergistic effect of these oxides makes the catalyst more effective, allowing for a more efficient CO2 conversion process.

Abstract Research subject: This research aims to revive outdated Kevlar fabrics for reuse in the manufacturing of polymer-based composite parts. As a polymer fiber with high tensile strength and significant resistance to impact and heat, Kevlar is used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and protective equipment manufacturing. This type of reinforcement alone does not give a good bond with polymer resins, and to create a strong bond, a conciliator (sizing agent) is used, which has a useful life. The physical and mechanical properties change over time due to environmental influences such as humidity, ultra-violet rays, and high temperature.
Research approach: In this research, among the thermal, mechanical, chemical, plasma, nanoparticles, and layering methods, the chemical method was chosen to revive outdated Kevlar fabrics. For this purpose, at first, three waste fabric samples were selected and finally, the tensile properties of regenerated and non-regenerated fabrics were compared according to the ASTM D638 standard tensile test.
Main results: The results showed that the chemically regenerated fabric had about 11.3% more tensile strength than non-regenerated fabrics, and the chemical regeneration process positively improved the mechanical properties of old Kevlar fibers. This achievement paves the way for the reutilization of aged fibers in advanced structures. This shows that the chemical regeneration process not only increases the mechanical strength of materials, but can also positively affect their durability and stability against environmental factors. In addition, this research provides an economic and ecological method for reviving old fibers, providing a basis for reducing industrial waste and reusing polymer materials.