Prof Dr Tamer Y A Fahmy (original) (raw)

Papers by Prof Dr Tamer Y A Fahmy

Research paper thumbnail of Biomass pyrolysis: past, present, and future

Biomass pyrolysis is a promising renewable sustainable source of fuels and petrochemical substitu... more Biomass pyrolysis is a promising renewable sustainable source of fuels and petrochemical substitutes. It may help in compensating the progressive consumption of fossil-fuel reserves. The present article outlines biomass pyrolysis. Various types of biomass used for pyrolysis are encompassed, e.g., wood, agricultural residues, sewage. Categories of pyrolysis are outlined, e.g., flash, fast, and slow. Emphasis is laid on current and future trends in biomass pyrolysis, e.g., microwave pyrolysis, solar pyrolysis, plasma pyrolysis, hydrogen production via biomass pyrolysis, co-pyrolysis of biomass with synthetic polymers and sewage, selective preparation of high-valued chemicals, pyrolysis of exotic biomass (coffee grounds and cotton shells), comparison between algal and terrestrial biomass pyrolysis. Specific future prospects are investigated, e.g., preparation of supercapacitor biochar materials by one-pot one-step pyrolysis of biomass with other ingredients, and fabricating metallic catalysts embedded on biochar for removal of environmental contaminants. The authors predict that combining solar pyrolysis with hydrogen production would be the eco-friendliest and most energetically feasible process in the future. Since hydrogen is an ideal clean fuel, this process may share in limiting climate changes due to CO 2 emissions.
Keywords Sustainable and renewable energy source; Fossil-fuel alternatives; Biomass pyrolysis; Biofuel (bio-oil, biogas, biochar); Charcoal (activated carbon); Hydrogen fuel

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural Residues (Wastes) for Manufacture of Paper, Board, and Miscellaneous Products: Background Overview and Future Prospects

An extensive background overview on the use of agricultural residues (wastes) for production of p... more An extensive background overview on the use of agricultural residues (wastes) for production of paper, board, binderless board, energy, different types of fuels by pyrolysis (solid, liquid and gaseous fuel), many petrochemicals substitutes, charcoal (activated carbon), dissolving pulps and rayon. It includes both scientific and industrial data, case studies, current status, sustainability of paper and sugar industries, green nanotechnology, and future prospects.
Keywords: Agricultural Residues (Wastes); Paper and Board manufacture; Sustainability of Paper and Sugar Industries; Green Nanotechnology; Future Prospects

Research paper thumbnail of Sustainability of Paper & Sugar Industries via Molasses: Novel Green Nanocomposites from Upgraded Recycled Cellulose Fibers

The present work leads to sustainability (responsible management of resources consumption) of bot... more The present work leads to sustainability (responsible management of resources consumption) of both paper and sugar industries. It, simultaneously, upgrades recycled waste paper (namely old newsprint) and creates a new use for molasses (an important byproduct of the sugar industry). This study introduces -for the first time world wide- a novel environmentally safe approach to upgrade recycled natural cellulose fibers (waste paper namely old newsprint), for use as specialty paper green nanocomposites suitable for several advanced purposes. The recycled cellulose fibers are upgraded by increasing their alpha cellulose content, and restoring their natural nanoporous structure, which is -normally- collapsed due to the first cycle of papermaking. Molasses is then incorporated into this restored nanoporous structure to obtain paper green nanocomposites filled with kaolin in presence of molasses. In comparison to conventionally recycled waste paper, the green paper nanocomposites -produced in this work- exhibit high dry and wet strength, and a surprisingly tremendous retention of inorganic fillers used in papermaking. This was achieved through a green nanotechnology process, where the solvent used is water (the ideal green solvent). The input and output components are renewable environmentally safe materials i.e. waste paper (cellulose fibers) and molasses (a by product of the sugar industry). The procedures used are simple physical processes conducted at room temperature rather than hazardous chemical reactions. Thus, saving energy, and decreasing the risk of chemical and thermal accidents, pollutive releases, explosions, and fires.

Research paper thumbnail of Response of pulps of different origins to the upgrading effect of bulk added green denatured soy protein, in correlation to morphological structure & chemical composition of cellulose fibers

Soy-protein is used, for the first time, as bulk binder in papermaking from wood pulps (hardwood ... more Soy-protein is used, for the first time, as bulk binder in papermaking from wood pulps (hardwood and softwood pulps). Wood pulps represent the major pulps used for paper production. A green denaturing method, involving only biodegradable compounds, was found sufficient to expose the functional groups of proteins. Addition of denatured soy-protein caused a considerable increase in all strength properties of paper, at all beating degrees. The effect was highest in non-wood (for comparison) followed by hardwood and softwood pulps respectively. This could be correlated to ratio of fiber length/width, fines, and hemicellulose content of pulps. The less the ratio, and the higher the fines and hemicellulose content, the more was the increase in strength properties; due to more exposed surfaces. The outstanding effect of soy-protein was magnifying the desired opacifying effect and retention of inorganic fillers e.g. kaolin, while eliminating the loss in strength, which occurs normally due to fillers.

Research paper thumbnail of Nanocomposites from natural cellulose fibers incorporated with sucrose

The present work shows for the first time worldwide that sucrose can be easily placed by simple t... more The present work shows for the first time worldwide that sucrose can be easily placed by simple techniques within the micropores or nanostructure of the mercerized non-dried cotton linter fibers to create a low-cost cellulose substitute. Such sucrose-containing nanocomposites find suitable use as specialty absorbent paper. Relative to the sucrose-free paper, the sucrose-containing counterparts exhibit greater breaking length and remarkably high water uptake (WRV) up to a sucrose content of 8–15% w/w. Mercerization of cotton linters before incorporating them with sucrose greatly enhanced the retention of sucrose in the prepared paper nanocomposites as compared to the case of unmercerized cotton linters. We assume that regions of the cell wall lamellae, on both sides of the sucrose spacers, are stressed during drying because the sucrose spacers hinder them to relax. This leads to a strain, which makes some microfibrils partially released and protrude out of the fiber. Thus, a sort of fiber beating takes place. We called this phenomenon incorporation beating or encapsulation beating to differentiate it from chemical and mechanical beatings, and it explains the great increase in breaking length of the paper nanocomposites prepared from the mercerized non-dried sucrose-loaded linters.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing molasses as a new additive in papermaking

This study introduced, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The ... more This study introduced, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The introduction of molasses as an additive in papermaking resulted in paper composites with greater breaking length and remarkably higher water retention value (WRV), compared with paper that does not have molasses as an additive. Previous studies have shown that incorporating the cell wall microstructure of cellulose fibers with sucrose greatly enhanced the breaking length and WRV. It is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances paper strength. Molasses, which contains sucrose and gums (including starch) is a byproduct of the sugar industry and is cheaper than sucrose. Mercerization of pulp fibers before loading them with molasses was shown to greatly enhance the positive effects produced by loading with molasses. Application: Paper composites produced using molasses as an additive are useful as specialty absorbent paper.

Research paper thumbnail of Incorporation of Never-Dried Cotton fibers with Methylmethacrylate: A Gateway to Unique Transparent Board-Like Nanocomposites

For the first time, it is shown that water medium allows dissolved methylmethacrylate monomer to ... more For the first time, it is shown that water medium allows dissolved methylmethacrylate monomer to penetrate water-swollen natural nanoporous structure of never-dried cotton fibers (biological cellulose fibers). Unique cellulose copolymer nanocomposites are obtained by green nanotechnology process (solvent is water-ideal green solvent-and reaction conducted at 25ºC). It was found that after only 2 h polymerization the conversion of MMA monomer to polymer was 42.97%, compared to zero polymer conversion in absence of never-dried cotton. Higher water uptake i.e. water retention value (WRV) of the cellulose-PMMA-copolymer nanocomposites prepared from never-dried biological cotton fibers, and microscopic investigations confirmed that the polymer was mostly grafted on the cellulose rather than homopolymer filling the fiber pores. Early products of polymerization e.g. dimmers and trimmers act as spacers and widen the porous structure of cell wall, thus increasing water retention value (WRV). We called this phenomenon "intra-polymerization". As the process of polymerization proceeds, polymerization within cell walls leads to cell wall destruction, increasing WRV of fibers, giving superabsorbent end product. The produced unique biological cotton-PMMA green nanocomposite we discovered find their use in several advanced medical and pharmaceutical fields; as nonwoven pads, bandages or board-like transparent nanocomposites of bending strength up to 955 kg/cm 2 .

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing undeinked old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, undeinked recycled old newsprint as a new res... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, undeinked recycled old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper. Impregnation of undeinked recycled old newsprint paper with linseed oil enhances the breaking length of paper and remarkably improves its electrical properties, i.e., the dielectric constant increases greatly and the a.c. conductivity decreases significantly due to impregnation. It was found that the electrical properties of the undeinked old newsprint paper and its linseed oil impregnated counterpart are close to the electrical properties of paper made from the more expensive virgin wood pulps and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. Using the undeinked pulp is more privileged than using the deinked pulp; because eliminating the deinking step saves money, time, and reagents. In addition, eliminating the deinking step improved the breaking length of paper. Electron dispersive X-ray elemental analysis (EDX) was used to investigate the undeinked and deinked pulps for residual elements originating from the printing materials. EDX was correlated to the slight differences in electrical properties of paper made from undeinked and deinked pulps. However, impregnation was able to overcome these slight differences. It was shown that improvement in electrical properties, due to impregnation, is sustained at elevated temperatures.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing deinked old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper

Finding new uses for recycled paper (a cellulose rich raw material), and increasing the rate of r... more Finding new uses for recycled paper (a cellulose rich raw material), and increasing the rate of recycling is beneficial to the environmental efficiency of the whole paper industry. The present work introduces, for the first time, deinked recycled old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper. Impregnation of recycled deinked old newsprint paper, by linseed oil, enhances the breaking length of paper and remarkably improves its electrical properties i.e., the dielectric constant increases greatly and the a.c. conductivity decreases significantly due to impregnation. It was found that the electrical properties of deinked recycled old newsprint paper and its linseed oil impregnated counterpart, are close to the electrical properties of paper made from the more expensive virgin wood pulps and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. In a series of research articles, the authors and others threw light for the first time on the electrical properties of paper made from agricultural residues pulps, and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. Some, of the investigated agricultural residues papers, showed electrical properties close to wood papers, or even superior to it. This motivated the authors to expand the studies, on electrical properties of paper, to other cheap and abundant raw materials. Recycled old newsprint is an abundant raw material that is cheaper than virgin wood pulps. Therefore, recycled deinked old newsprint paper was chosen as a new raw material to study its electrical properties in this work. The effect of elevated temperatures on the electrical properties of paper is, also, studied. It is shown that improvement in electrical properties, due to impregnation, is sustained at elevated temperatures. Impregnated deinked recycled old newsprint paper produced in this work finds its use as specialty electrical purposes paper.

Research paper thumbnail of Nanocomposites from natural cellulose fibers filled with kaolin in presence of sucrose

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, an advanced nanocomposite involving two addit... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, an advanced nanocomposite involving two additives – a nanoadditive and a conventional additive – within a matrix of natural cellulose fibers. The first additive (the nanoadditive) is sucrose, which incorporates the nanoporous structure of the cell walls of cellulose fibers. The second additive (the conventional additive) is kaolin, the famous paper filler. Kaolin is enmeshed between the adjacent cellulose fibers. This advanced paper nanocomposite was prepared by simple techniques.

The present work shows, for the first time, that sucrose can overcome the ultimate fate of deterioration in strength of paper, due to addition of inorganic fillers such as kaolin. This deterioration was counteracted by incorporating cellulose fibers with sucrose, which leads to incorporation beating of the fibers, and thus increases the strength of the produced paper nanocomposites. In addition, sucrose was proven – for the first time – to act as retention aid for inorganic fillers such as kaolin. We called this phenomenon incorporation retention to differentiate it from the conventional types of retention of inorganic fillers.

Recent studies, by the authors and others, have shown that incorporating cellulose fibers, with sucrose, leads to paper nanocomposites of enhanced strength (breaking length). Also, sucrose is privileged by its small size (0.8 nm), substantial hydrogen bonding capacity, low cost, and abundance. Therefore, sucrose was chosen as a nanoadditive in this work. The present study shows that the nanoadditive sucrose may find its use as a new retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced nano-based manipulations of molasses in the cellulose and paper discipline: Introducing a master cheap environmentally safe retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking

Carbohydrate Polymers, 2009

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses – a byproduct of the sugar industry ... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses – a byproduct of the sugar industry – as a master retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking. The paper nanocomposites produced in the present work – involving molasses, natural cellulose fibers, and kaolin – retained larger amounts of kaolin while exhibiting greater strength, as compared to their molasses-free counterparts. Recently, the authors have shown, for the first time, that the nanoadditive sucrose can overcome the ultimate fate of deterioration in strength of paper, due to addition of inorganic fillers such as kaolin. This deterioration was counteracted by incorporating the nanoporous structure of cellulose fibers with sucrose, which leads to incorporation beating of the fibers, and thus increases the strength of the produced paper nanocomposites. In addition, the nanoadditive sucrose was proven – for the first time – to act as retention aid for inorganic fillers such as kaolin. We called this phenomenon incorporation retention to differentiate it from the conventional types of retention of inorganic fillers. On the other hand, it is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances the strength of paper. Molasses contains both the nanoadditive (sucrose), and gums (including starch). Molasses is a byproduct of sugar industry, which is cheaper than sucrose; and a major part of sucrose lost in sugar industry resides in molasses. Moreover, molasses is an environmentally safe additive. Therefore, the nanoadditive (molasses) was chosen, in the present work, to be manipulated as a master strength promoting retention aid for inorganic fillers used in papermaking, such as kaolin.

Research paper thumbnail of New approach for upgrading pulp & paper quality: Mild potassium permanganate treatment of already bleached pulps

The present work introduces mild – room temperature – potassium permanganate treatment of cellulo... more The present work introduces mild – room temperature – potassium permanganate treatment of cellulosic materials, namely already bleached pulps. Such treatment represents a new approach for upgrading pulp and paper quality, which is lacking in the literature. Potassium permanganate was investigated as a purifying and mild oxidizing agent for commercial already bleached softwood and bagasse pulps. It was found that treatment of the bleached beaten pulps, with 0.25–2% KMnO4 (based on pulp weight), led to significant improvement in paper properties. The strength (breaking length) increased greatly and the brightness increased significantly due to treatment. The improvements were related to the degree of polymerization, and to the alphacellulose content of pulps.

Moreover, potassium permanganate serves as a disinfectant and deodorizer. Thus treatment of bleached pulps with KMnO4 is a promising remedy for the side effects which pulps suffer, during transportation and storage, before papermaking.

Research paper thumbnail of Molasses as a new additive in papermaking: For Bagasse and Kaolin Filled Bagasse pulps

This work introduces, for the first time, molasses as a new additive for bagasse and kaolin fille... more This work introduces, for the first time, molasses as a new additive for bagasse and kaolin filled bagasse pulps. It makes use of two most important byproducts of sugar industry (molasses and bagasse). Bagasse is also an important agricultural residue. Produced paper composites exhibited greater strength (breaking length) and remarkably higher water uptake (WRV) relative to molasses-free paper. Molasses succeeded to counteract deterioration in paper strength which occurs due to addition of inorganic fillers e.g. kaolin.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced binderless board-like green nanocomposites from undebarked cotton stalks and mechanism of self-bonding

Self-bonding of air-dried undebarked cotton stalks during hot pressing in a closely fitting mold ... more Self-bonding of air-dried undebarked cotton stalks during hot pressing in a closely fitting mold was studied. Advanced board-like green nanocomposites from ground undebarked cotton stalks were introduced for the first time in the present work. The dry forming process was adopted. Moderate molding pressure and temperature were selected and applied in a tight die, thus saving water and energy and avoiding the use of any binders to achieve an environment-friendly green product. Green nanocomposites having densities in the range of 1.27–1.29 g/cm3 and 1.03–1.06 g/cm3 were prepared. Particle size and cell wall morphological structure were found to play a major role in self-bonding. Properties of composites prepared from the fine fraction of cotton stalks were superior to those prepared from the cotton stalk coarse fraction at the same conditions. This is attributed—among other things—to the dominance of pith (parenchymal cells) in the fine fraction. Such cells possess a high lumen-to-cell wall ratio, which renders them more deformable under pressure, leading to more intercellular or interparticle bonding. Advanced binderless green nanocomposites having bending strength as high as 637 kg/cm2 and water absorption as low as 12.1 % were obtained from the ground undebarked cotton stalks. The results show clearly that the advanced green nanocomposite obtained by the dry forming process, without the addition of any binders, is superior to hardboard obtained from cotton stalks by the conventional wet web formation process. The mechanism of self-bonding is discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Green nanotechnology: A short cut to beneficiation of natural fibers

For the first time worldwide, it is shown that our novel nanocomposite produced from natural fibe... more For the first time worldwide, it is shown that our novel nanocomposite produced from natural fibers vaccinated with glucose--by fully green nanotechnology--possesses surprising reactivity towards urea. Magic super absorbent carbamated nanocomposite cotton fabrics having remarkable distinguished properties were obtained in few minutes. It is well established that carbamates possess antibacterial effects. The produced magic nanocomposite fabrics, we discovered for the first time worldwide, find their use as woven or nonwoven hygienic pads, bandages or paper nanocomposites.

Research paper thumbnail of Vaccination of biological cellulose fibers with glucose: A gateway to novel nanocomposites

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural nanoporous structure of the never-dried plant cell wall, against the irreversible collapse, which occurs due to drying. Simultaneously, these means, used for the above-mentioned aim, provide a gateway to novel nanocomposite materials, which retain the super reactive and super absorbent properties of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers. The present work showed, for the first time worldwide, that glucose can be vaccinated into the cell wall micropores or nanostructure of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers, by simple new techniques, to create a reactive novel nanocomposite material possessing surprising super absorbent properties. Inoculation of the never dried biological cellulose fibers, with glucose, prevented the collapse of the cell wall nanostructure, which normally occurs due to drying. The nanocomposite, produced after drying of the glucose inoculated biological cellulose, retained the super absorbent properties of the never dried biological cellulose fibers. It was found that glucose under certain circumstances grafts to the never dried biological cellulose fibers to form a novel natural nanocomposite material. About 3-8% (w/w) glucose remained grafted in the novel nanocomposite.

Research paper thumbnail of Unopened Green Cotton Bolls Containing Never-Dried Cotton Fibers (Biological Cellulose Fibers)

Figure 1 related to Article: Fahmy TYA, Mobarak F (2008) Vaccination of biological cellulose fibe... more Figure 1 related to Article: Fahmy TYA, Mobarak F (2008) Vaccination of biological cellulose fibers with glucose: A gateway to novel nanocomposites. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules 42(1): 52 ABSTRACT: This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural nanoporous structure of the never-dried plant cell wall, against the irreversible collapse, which occurs due to drying. Simultaneously, these means, used for the above-mentioned aim, provide a gateway to novel nanocomposite materials, which retain the super reactive and super absorbent properties of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers. The present work showed, for the first time worldwide, that glucose can be vaccinated into the cell wall micropores or nanostructure of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers, by simple new techniques, to create a reactive novel nanocomposite material possessing surprising super absorbent properties. Inoculation of the never dried biological cellulose fibers, with glucose, prevented the collapse of the cell wall nanostructure, which normally occurs due to drying. The nanocomposite, produced after drying of the glucose inoculated biological cellulose, retained the super absorbent properties of the never dried biological cellulose fibers. It was found that glucose under certain circumstances grafts to the never dried biological cellulose fibers to form a novel natural nanocomposite material. About 3-8% (w/w) glucose remained grafted in the novel nanocomposite.

Research paper thumbnail of Molasses as a new additive in papermaking: for high alpha-cellulose wood pulp

The present work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking... more The present work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The resulting paper composites exhibit greater breaking length and remarkably higher water uptake (WRV) in comparison to paper, which did not involve molasses as an additive. Previous studies, by the author and others, have shown that incorporating the cell wall microstructure of cellulose fibers with sucrose greatly enhanced the breaking length and water uptake of paper. Also, it is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances the strength of paper. Molasses contains both sucrose and gums (including starch). Molasses is a byproduct of sugar industry, which is cheaper than sucrose; and a major part of sucrose lost in sugar industry resides in molasses. Therefore, molasses was chosen as a new additive in this work. The effect of mercerization of pulp fibers before loading them with molasses is, also, studied in this work; and mercerization is shown to greatly enhance the positive effects produced by loading with molasses. Paper composites produced in this work find their use as specialty absorbent paper. The present work shows that the benefits obtained by using molasses are close to the benefits obtained in the case of using the more expensive additive sucrose.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing eggshell waste for paper industry: part I Suitability for bagasse pulp

Professional Papermaking, 2020

The present work aims at introducing eggshell waste for the major types of pulp used in paper ind... more The present work aims at introducing eggshell waste for the major types of pulp used in paper industry. It creates new use for eggshell (an important food industry byproduct). This promotes the sustainability of both food and paper industries. A major industrial crop waste was chosen as a model to uncover the potential of eggshell waste for paper production; namely bagasse. It is well established in paper industry to add inorganic fillers such as calcium carbonate to improve paper properties. Eggshell is mainly composed of calcium carbonate. Moreover, eggshell contains small amounts of proteins and carbohydrates. Proteins and carbohydrates have recently been proven to improve mechanical strength proper-ties of paper while increasing retention of inorganic fillers. These facts motivated the authors of the present work to introduce eggshell for paper industry. Paper composites produced, in the present work, involving eggshell, show that eggshell succeeds to improve optical properties of paper while minimizing the deterioration of mechanical properties of paper, which normally occurs due to adding inorganic fillers. This is interpreted by the synergic effect produced from presence of calcium carbonate, proteins, and carbohydrates in eggshells. Calcium carbonate improved optical properties while proteins and carbohydrates counteracted the deterioration in mechanical properties. Thus, eggshell shows potential promise for application in paper industry.

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Tosyl Cellulose Acetate as Potential Carrier for Controlled Drug Release

Cellulose is a naturally occurring organic polymer. The chemical functionalization of cellulose i... more Cellulose is a naturally occurring organic polymer. The chemical functionalization of cellulose is conducted to adjust its properties for different purposes. In the present study, cellulose was extracted from bagasse, derivatized to acetate, and chemically modified again to prepare tosylated cellulose acetate. The prepared cellulose derivatives were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Tosyl cellulose acetate was evaluated as a potential carrier for the controlled release of pH-sensitive drugs. The release was investigated as a function of pH and time at various pH values. The results find their use in controlled release applications.

Research paper thumbnail of Biomass pyrolysis: past, present, and future

Biomass pyrolysis is a promising renewable sustainable source of fuels and petrochemical substitu... more Biomass pyrolysis is a promising renewable sustainable source of fuels and petrochemical substitutes. It may help in compensating the progressive consumption of fossil-fuel reserves. The present article outlines biomass pyrolysis. Various types of biomass used for pyrolysis are encompassed, e.g., wood, agricultural residues, sewage. Categories of pyrolysis are outlined, e.g., flash, fast, and slow. Emphasis is laid on current and future trends in biomass pyrolysis, e.g., microwave pyrolysis, solar pyrolysis, plasma pyrolysis, hydrogen production via biomass pyrolysis, co-pyrolysis of biomass with synthetic polymers and sewage, selective preparation of high-valued chemicals, pyrolysis of exotic biomass (coffee grounds and cotton shells), comparison between algal and terrestrial biomass pyrolysis. Specific future prospects are investigated, e.g., preparation of supercapacitor biochar materials by one-pot one-step pyrolysis of biomass with other ingredients, and fabricating metallic catalysts embedded on biochar for removal of environmental contaminants. The authors predict that combining solar pyrolysis with hydrogen production would be the eco-friendliest and most energetically feasible process in the future. Since hydrogen is an ideal clean fuel, this process may share in limiting climate changes due to CO 2 emissions.
Keywords Sustainable and renewable energy source; Fossil-fuel alternatives; Biomass pyrolysis; Biofuel (bio-oil, biogas, biochar); Charcoal (activated carbon); Hydrogen fuel

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural Residues (Wastes) for Manufacture of Paper, Board, and Miscellaneous Products: Background Overview and Future Prospects

An extensive background overview on the use of agricultural residues (wastes) for production of p... more An extensive background overview on the use of agricultural residues (wastes) for production of paper, board, binderless board, energy, different types of fuels by pyrolysis (solid, liquid and gaseous fuel), many petrochemicals substitutes, charcoal (activated carbon), dissolving pulps and rayon. It includes both scientific and industrial data, case studies, current status, sustainability of paper and sugar industries, green nanotechnology, and future prospects.
Keywords: Agricultural Residues (Wastes); Paper and Board manufacture; Sustainability of Paper and Sugar Industries; Green Nanotechnology; Future Prospects

Research paper thumbnail of Sustainability of Paper & Sugar Industries via Molasses: Novel Green Nanocomposites from Upgraded Recycled Cellulose Fibers

The present work leads to sustainability (responsible management of resources consumption) of bot... more The present work leads to sustainability (responsible management of resources consumption) of both paper and sugar industries. It, simultaneously, upgrades recycled waste paper (namely old newsprint) and creates a new use for molasses (an important byproduct of the sugar industry). This study introduces -for the first time world wide- a novel environmentally safe approach to upgrade recycled natural cellulose fibers (waste paper namely old newsprint), for use as specialty paper green nanocomposites suitable for several advanced purposes. The recycled cellulose fibers are upgraded by increasing their alpha cellulose content, and restoring their natural nanoporous structure, which is -normally- collapsed due to the first cycle of papermaking. Molasses is then incorporated into this restored nanoporous structure to obtain paper green nanocomposites filled with kaolin in presence of molasses. In comparison to conventionally recycled waste paper, the green paper nanocomposites -produced in this work- exhibit high dry and wet strength, and a surprisingly tremendous retention of inorganic fillers used in papermaking. This was achieved through a green nanotechnology process, where the solvent used is water (the ideal green solvent). The input and output components are renewable environmentally safe materials i.e. waste paper (cellulose fibers) and molasses (a by product of the sugar industry). The procedures used are simple physical processes conducted at room temperature rather than hazardous chemical reactions. Thus, saving energy, and decreasing the risk of chemical and thermal accidents, pollutive releases, explosions, and fires.

Research paper thumbnail of Response of pulps of different origins to the upgrading effect of bulk added green denatured soy protein, in correlation to morphological structure & chemical composition of cellulose fibers

Soy-protein is used, for the first time, as bulk binder in papermaking from wood pulps (hardwood ... more Soy-protein is used, for the first time, as bulk binder in papermaking from wood pulps (hardwood and softwood pulps). Wood pulps represent the major pulps used for paper production. A green denaturing method, involving only biodegradable compounds, was found sufficient to expose the functional groups of proteins. Addition of denatured soy-protein caused a considerable increase in all strength properties of paper, at all beating degrees. The effect was highest in non-wood (for comparison) followed by hardwood and softwood pulps respectively. This could be correlated to ratio of fiber length/width, fines, and hemicellulose content of pulps. The less the ratio, and the higher the fines and hemicellulose content, the more was the increase in strength properties; due to more exposed surfaces. The outstanding effect of soy-protein was magnifying the desired opacifying effect and retention of inorganic fillers e.g. kaolin, while eliminating the loss in strength, which occurs normally due to fillers.

Research paper thumbnail of Nanocomposites from natural cellulose fibers incorporated with sucrose

The present work shows for the first time worldwide that sucrose can be easily placed by simple t... more The present work shows for the first time worldwide that sucrose can be easily placed by simple techniques within the micropores or nanostructure of the mercerized non-dried cotton linter fibers to create a low-cost cellulose substitute. Such sucrose-containing nanocomposites find suitable use as specialty absorbent paper. Relative to the sucrose-free paper, the sucrose-containing counterparts exhibit greater breaking length and remarkably high water uptake (WRV) up to a sucrose content of 8–15% w/w. Mercerization of cotton linters before incorporating them with sucrose greatly enhanced the retention of sucrose in the prepared paper nanocomposites as compared to the case of unmercerized cotton linters. We assume that regions of the cell wall lamellae, on both sides of the sucrose spacers, are stressed during drying because the sucrose spacers hinder them to relax. This leads to a strain, which makes some microfibrils partially released and protrude out of the fiber. Thus, a sort of fiber beating takes place. We called this phenomenon incorporation beating or encapsulation beating to differentiate it from chemical and mechanical beatings, and it explains the great increase in breaking length of the paper nanocomposites prepared from the mercerized non-dried sucrose-loaded linters.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing molasses as a new additive in papermaking

This study introduced, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The ... more This study introduced, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The introduction of molasses as an additive in papermaking resulted in paper composites with greater breaking length and remarkably higher water retention value (WRV), compared with paper that does not have molasses as an additive. Previous studies have shown that incorporating the cell wall microstructure of cellulose fibers with sucrose greatly enhanced the breaking length and WRV. It is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances paper strength. Molasses, which contains sucrose and gums (including starch) is a byproduct of the sugar industry and is cheaper than sucrose. Mercerization of pulp fibers before loading them with molasses was shown to greatly enhance the positive effects produced by loading with molasses. Application: Paper composites produced using molasses as an additive are useful as specialty absorbent paper.

Research paper thumbnail of Incorporation of Never-Dried Cotton fibers with Methylmethacrylate: A Gateway to Unique Transparent Board-Like Nanocomposites

For the first time, it is shown that water medium allows dissolved methylmethacrylate monomer to ... more For the first time, it is shown that water medium allows dissolved methylmethacrylate monomer to penetrate water-swollen natural nanoporous structure of never-dried cotton fibers (biological cellulose fibers). Unique cellulose copolymer nanocomposites are obtained by green nanotechnology process (solvent is water-ideal green solvent-and reaction conducted at 25ºC). It was found that after only 2 h polymerization the conversion of MMA monomer to polymer was 42.97%, compared to zero polymer conversion in absence of never-dried cotton. Higher water uptake i.e. water retention value (WRV) of the cellulose-PMMA-copolymer nanocomposites prepared from never-dried biological cotton fibers, and microscopic investigations confirmed that the polymer was mostly grafted on the cellulose rather than homopolymer filling the fiber pores. Early products of polymerization e.g. dimmers and trimmers act as spacers and widen the porous structure of cell wall, thus increasing water retention value (WRV). We called this phenomenon "intra-polymerization". As the process of polymerization proceeds, polymerization within cell walls leads to cell wall destruction, increasing WRV of fibers, giving superabsorbent end product. The produced unique biological cotton-PMMA green nanocomposite we discovered find their use in several advanced medical and pharmaceutical fields; as nonwoven pads, bandages or board-like transparent nanocomposites of bending strength up to 955 kg/cm 2 .

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing undeinked old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, undeinked recycled old newsprint as a new res... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, undeinked recycled old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper. Impregnation of undeinked recycled old newsprint paper with linseed oil enhances the breaking length of paper and remarkably improves its electrical properties, i.e., the dielectric constant increases greatly and the a.c. conductivity decreases significantly due to impregnation. It was found that the electrical properties of the undeinked old newsprint paper and its linseed oil impregnated counterpart are close to the electrical properties of paper made from the more expensive virgin wood pulps and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. Using the undeinked pulp is more privileged than using the deinked pulp; because eliminating the deinking step saves money, time, and reagents. In addition, eliminating the deinking step improved the breaking length of paper. Electron dispersive X-ray elemental analysis (EDX) was used to investigate the undeinked and deinked pulps for residual elements originating from the printing materials. EDX was correlated to the slight differences in electrical properties of paper made from undeinked and deinked pulps. However, impregnation was able to overcome these slight differences. It was shown that improvement in electrical properties, due to impregnation, is sustained at elevated temperatures.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing deinked old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper

Finding new uses for recycled paper (a cellulose rich raw material), and increasing the rate of r... more Finding new uses for recycled paper (a cellulose rich raw material), and increasing the rate of recycling is beneficial to the environmental efficiency of the whole paper industry. The present work introduces, for the first time, deinked recycled old newsprint as a new resource of electrical purposes paper. Impregnation of recycled deinked old newsprint paper, by linseed oil, enhances the breaking length of paper and remarkably improves its electrical properties i.e., the dielectric constant increases greatly and the a.c. conductivity decreases significantly due to impregnation. It was found that the electrical properties of deinked recycled old newsprint paper and its linseed oil impregnated counterpart, are close to the electrical properties of paper made from the more expensive virgin wood pulps and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. In a series of research articles, the authors and others threw light for the first time on the electrical properties of paper made from agricultural residues pulps, and their linseed oil impregnated counterparts. Some, of the investigated agricultural residues papers, showed electrical properties close to wood papers, or even superior to it. This motivated the authors to expand the studies, on electrical properties of paper, to other cheap and abundant raw materials. Recycled old newsprint is an abundant raw material that is cheaper than virgin wood pulps. Therefore, recycled deinked old newsprint paper was chosen as a new raw material to study its electrical properties in this work. The effect of elevated temperatures on the electrical properties of paper is, also, studied. It is shown that improvement in electrical properties, due to impregnation, is sustained at elevated temperatures. Impregnated deinked recycled old newsprint paper produced in this work finds its use as specialty electrical purposes paper.

Research paper thumbnail of Nanocomposites from natural cellulose fibers filled with kaolin in presence of sucrose

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, an advanced nanocomposite involving two addit... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, an advanced nanocomposite involving two additives – a nanoadditive and a conventional additive – within a matrix of natural cellulose fibers. The first additive (the nanoadditive) is sucrose, which incorporates the nanoporous structure of the cell walls of cellulose fibers. The second additive (the conventional additive) is kaolin, the famous paper filler. Kaolin is enmeshed between the adjacent cellulose fibers. This advanced paper nanocomposite was prepared by simple techniques.

The present work shows, for the first time, that sucrose can overcome the ultimate fate of deterioration in strength of paper, due to addition of inorganic fillers such as kaolin. This deterioration was counteracted by incorporating cellulose fibers with sucrose, which leads to incorporation beating of the fibers, and thus increases the strength of the produced paper nanocomposites. In addition, sucrose was proven – for the first time – to act as retention aid for inorganic fillers such as kaolin. We called this phenomenon incorporation retention to differentiate it from the conventional types of retention of inorganic fillers.

Recent studies, by the authors and others, have shown that incorporating cellulose fibers, with sucrose, leads to paper nanocomposites of enhanced strength (breaking length). Also, sucrose is privileged by its small size (0.8 nm), substantial hydrogen bonding capacity, low cost, and abundance. Therefore, sucrose was chosen as a nanoadditive in this work. The present study shows that the nanoadditive sucrose may find its use as a new retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced nano-based manipulations of molasses in the cellulose and paper discipline: Introducing a master cheap environmentally safe retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking

Carbohydrate Polymers, 2009

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses – a byproduct of the sugar industry ... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses – a byproduct of the sugar industry – as a master retention aid and strength promoter in papermaking. The paper nanocomposites produced in the present work – involving molasses, natural cellulose fibers, and kaolin – retained larger amounts of kaolin while exhibiting greater strength, as compared to their molasses-free counterparts. Recently, the authors have shown, for the first time, that the nanoadditive sucrose can overcome the ultimate fate of deterioration in strength of paper, due to addition of inorganic fillers such as kaolin. This deterioration was counteracted by incorporating the nanoporous structure of cellulose fibers with sucrose, which leads to incorporation beating of the fibers, and thus increases the strength of the produced paper nanocomposites. In addition, the nanoadditive sucrose was proven – for the first time – to act as retention aid for inorganic fillers such as kaolin. We called this phenomenon incorporation retention to differentiate it from the conventional types of retention of inorganic fillers. On the other hand, it is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances the strength of paper. Molasses contains both the nanoadditive (sucrose), and gums (including starch). Molasses is a byproduct of sugar industry, which is cheaper than sucrose; and a major part of sucrose lost in sugar industry resides in molasses. Moreover, molasses is an environmentally safe additive. Therefore, the nanoadditive (molasses) was chosen, in the present work, to be manipulated as a master strength promoting retention aid for inorganic fillers used in papermaking, such as kaolin.

Research paper thumbnail of New approach for upgrading pulp & paper quality: Mild potassium permanganate treatment of already bleached pulps

The present work introduces mild – room temperature – potassium permanganate treatment of cellulo... more The present work introduces mild – room temperature – potassium permanganate treatment of cellulosic materials, namely already bleached pulps. Such treatment represents a new approach for upgrading pulp and paper quality, which is lacking in the literature. Potassium permanganate was investigated as a purifying and mild oxidizing agent for commercial already bleached softwood and bagasse pulps. It was found that treatment of the bleached beaten pulps, with 0.25–2% KMnO4 (based on pulp weight), led to significant improvement in paper properties. The strength (breaking length) increased greatly and the brightness increased significantly due to treatment. The improvements were related to the degree of polymerization, and to the alphacellulose content of pulps.

Moreover, potassium permanganate serves as a disinfectant and deodorizer. Thus treatment of bleached pulps with KMnO4 is a promising remedy for the side effects which pulps suffer, during transportation and storage, before papermaking.

Research paper thumbnail of Molasses as a new additive in papermaking: For Bagasse and Kaolin Filled Bagasse pulps

This work introduces, for the first time, molasses as a new additive for bagasse and kaolin fille... more This work introduces, for the first time, molasses as a new additive for bagasse and kaolin filled bagasse pulps. It makes use of two most important byproducts of sugar industry (molasses and bagasse). Bagasse is also an important agricultural residue. Produced paper composites exhibited greater strength (breaking length) and remarkably higher water uptake (WRV) relative to molasses-free paper. Molasses succeeded to counteract deterioration in paper strength which occurs due to addition of inorganic fillers e.g. kaolin.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced binderless board-like green nanocomposites from undebarked cotton stalks and mechanism of self-bonding

Self-bonding of air-dried undebarked cotton stalks during hot pressing in a closely fitting mold ... more Self-bonding of air-dried undebarked cotton stalks during hot pressing in a closely fitting mold was studied. Advanced board-like green nanocomposites from ground undebarked cotton stalks were introduced for the first time in the present work. The dry forming process was adopted. Moderate molding pressure and temperature were selected and applied in a tight die, thus saving water and energy and avoiding the use of any binders to achieve an environment-friendly green product. Green nanocomposites having densities in the range of 1.27–1.29 g/cm3 and 1.03–1.06 g/cm3 were prepared. Particle size and cell wall morphological structure were found to play a major role in self-bonding. Properties of composites prepared from the fine fraction of cotton stalks were superior to those prepared from the cotton stalk coarse fraction at the same conditions. This is attributed—among other things—to the dominance of pith (parenchymal cells) in the fine fraction. Such cells possess a high lumen-to-cell wall ratio, which renders them more deformable under pressure, leading to more intercellular or interparticle bonding. Advanced binderless green nanocomposites having bending strength as high as 637 kg/cm2 and water absorption as low as 12.1 % were obtained from the ground undebarked cotton stalks. The results show clearly that the advanced green nanocomposite obtained by the dry forming process, without the addition of any binders, is superior to hardboard obtained from cotton stalks by the conventional wet web formation process. The mechanism of self-bonding is discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Green nanotechnology: A short cut to beneficiation of natural fibers

For the first time worldwide, it is shown that our novel nanocomposite produced from natural fibe... more For the first time worldwide, it is shown that our novel nanocomposite produced from natural fibers vaccinated with glucose--by fully green nanotechnology--possesses surprising reactivity towards urea. Magic super absorbent carbamated nanocomposite cotton fabrics having remarkable distinguished properties were obtained in few minutes. It is well established that carbamates possess antibacterial effects. The produced magic nanocomposite fabrics, we discovered for the first time worldwide, find their use as woven or nonwoven hygienic pads, bandages or paper nanocomposites.

Research paper thumbnail of Vaccination of biological cellulose fibers with glucose: A gateway to novel nanocomposites

This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural... more This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural nanoporous structure of the never-dried plant cell wall, against the irreversible collapse, which occurs due to drying. Simultaneously, these means, used for the above-mentioned aim, provide a gateway to novel nanocomposite materials, which retain the super reactive and super absorbent properties of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers. The present work showed, for the first time worldwide, that glucose can be vaccinated into the cell wall micropores or nanostructure of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers, by simple new techniques, to create a reactive novel nanocomposite material possessing surprising super absorbent properties. Inoculation of the never dried biological cellulose fibers, with glucose, prevented the collapse of the cell wall nanostructure, which normally occurs due to drying. The nanocomposite, produced after drying of the glucose inoculated biological cellulose, retained the super absorbent properties of the never dried biological cellulose fibers. It was found that glucose under certain circumstances grafts to the never dried biological cellulose fibers to form a novel natural nanocomposite material. About 3-8% (w/w) glucose remained grafted in the novel nanocomposite.

Research paper thumbnail of Unopened Green Cotton Bolls Containing Never-Dried Cotton Fibers (Biological Cellulose Fibers)

Figure 1 related to Article: Fahmy TYA, Mobarak F (2008) Vaccination of biological cellulose fibe... more Figure 1 related to Article: Fahmy TYA, Mobarak F (2008) Vaccination of biological cellulose fibers with glucose: A gateway to novel nanocomposites. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules 42(1): 52 ABSTRACT: This work introduces, for the first time worldwide, the means to preserve and protect the natural nanoporous structure of the never-dried plant cell wall, against the irreversible collapse, which occurs due to drying. Simultaneously, these means, used for the above-mentioned aim, provide a gateway to novel nanocomposite materials, which retain the super reactive and super absorbent properties of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers. The present work showed, for the first time worldwide, that glucose can be vaccinated into the cell wall micropores or nanostructure of the never-dried biological cellulose fibers, by simple new techniques, to create a reactive novel nanocomposite material possessing surprising super absorbent properties. Inoculation of the never dried biological cellulose fibers, with glucose, prevented the collapse of the cell wall nanostructure, which normally occurs due to drying. The nanocomposite, produced after drying of the glucose inoculated biological cellulose, retained the super absorbent properties of the never dried biological cellulose fibers. It was found that glucose under certain circumstances grafts to the never dried biological cellulose fibers to form a novel natural nanocomposite material. About 3-8% (w/w) glucose remained grafted in the novel nanocomposite.

Research paper thumbnail of Molasses as a new additive in papermaking: for high alpha-cellulose wood pulp

The present work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking... more The present work introduces, for the first time worldwide, molasses as an additive in papermaking. The resulting paper composites exhibit greater breaking length and remarkably higher water uptake (WRV) in comparison to paper, which did not involve molasses as an additive. Previous studies, by the author and others, have shown that incorporating the cell wall microstructure of cellulose fibers with sucrose greatly enhanced the breaking length and water uptake of paper. Also, it is well established in the literature that using gums (including starch) as additives in papermaking enhances the strength of paper. Molasses contains both sucrose and gums (including starch). Molasses is a byproduct of sugar industry, which is cheaper than sucrose; and a major part of sucrose lost in sugar industry resides in molasses. Therefore, molasses was chosen as a new additive in this work. The effect of mercerization of pulp fibers before loading them with molasses is, also, studied in this work; and mercerization is shown to greatly enhance the positive effects produced by loading with molasses. Paper composites produced in this work find their use as specialty absorbent paper. The present work shows that the benefits obtained by using molasses are close to the benefits obtained in the case of using the more expensive additive sucrose.

Research paper thumbnail of Introducing eggshell waste for paper industry: part I Suitability for bagasse pulp

Professional Papermaking, 2020

The present work aims at introducing eggshell waste for the major types of pulp used in paper ind... more The present work aims at introducing eggshell waste for the major types of pulp used in paper industry. It creates new use for eggshell (an important food industry byproduct). This promotes the sustainability of both food and paper industries. A major industrial crop waste was chosen as a model to uncover the potential of eggshell waste for paper production; namely bagasse. It is well established in paper industry to add inorganic fillers such as calcium carbonate to improve paper properties. Eggshell is mainly composed of calcium carbonate. Moreover, eggshell contains small amounts of proteins and carbohydrates. Proteins and carbohydrates have recently been proven to improve mechanical strength proper-ties of paper while increasing retention of inorganic fillers. These facts motivated the authors of the present work to introduce eggshell for paper industry. Paper composites produced, in the present work, involving eggshell, show that eggshell succeeds to improve optical properties of paper while minimizing the deterioration of mechanical properties of paper, which normally occurs due to adding inorganic fillers. This is interpreted by the synergic effect produced from presence of calcium carbonate, proteins, and carbohydrates in eggshells. Calcium carbonate improved optical properties while proteins and carbohydrates counteracted the deterioration in mechanical properties. Thus, eggshell shows potential promise for application in paper industry.

Research paper thumbnail of Role of Tosyl Cellulose Acetate as Potential Carrier for Controlled Drug Release

Cellulose is a naturally occurring organic polymer. The chemical functionalization of cellulose i... more Cellulose is a naturally occurring organic polymer. The chemical functionalization of cellulose is conducted to adjust its properties for different purposes. In the present study, cellulose was extracted from bagasse, derivatized to acetate, and chemically modified again to prepare tosylated cellulose acetate. The prepared cellulose derivatives were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Tosyl cellulose acetate was evaluated as a potential carrier for the controlled release of pH-sensitive drugs. The release was investigated as a function of pH and time at various pH values. The results find their use in controlled release applications.