Characterization of functional bio-plasticizer from Millettia pinnata leaf biomass as a green alternative to petroleum-based plasticizers K. R. Ramesh, Raja Somasundaram, Sankar Karthikumar, Indran Suyambulingam, Nadir Ayrilmis, Divya Divakaran, Ajith J. Kings, L. R. Monisha Miriam Macromolecular Research, 2025 With the increasing demand for sustainable and non-toxic alternatives, bio-based plasticizers derived from renewable sources are being developed as environmentally friendly replacements for conventional synthetic plasticizers such as phthalate esters, adipates, trimellitates, benzoates, sebacates, etc. This study investigated the extraction of solid plasticizers from the leaves of the abundantly available Millettia pinnata plant (MPL). It was chemically treated through processes including phytoremediation, slow pyrolysis, alkylation, and filtration to extract the plasticizers. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a porous, smooth surface, while atomic force microscopy further supported the morphological suitability of these materials for biofilm and composite preparation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy identified functional groups such as alcohol, amine, amide, hydrocarbon, alkene, and aromatic compounds, while UV analysis confirmed the presence of alcoholic, amino, and carboxyl constituents. The primary phytoconstituents detected in the MPL were molecularly docked to determine binding affinity. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the extracted plasticizer can withstand temperatures up to 267 °C. Furthermore, X-ray Diffraction analysis yielded a high crystallinity index (47.5%) and a low crystalline size (11.3 nm), desirable characteristics in plasticizers. These findings suggest that plasticizers extracted from MPL leaves could serve as a viable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional synthetic plasticizers, offering a sustainable replacement with considerable functional benefits. Graphical abstract
Enhancement of biodiesel production using magnetic nanocatalyst CrFe2O4from mixed waste cooking oil by an empirical model C Arul Jerman, S Julyes Jaisingh, Ajith J Kings, RS Rimal Isaac Energy and Environment, 2025 Biodiesel has achieved widespread recognition as an unconventional energy source, despite its extra manufacturing cost and sustainable resources. Mixed waste cooking oil is one of the best feedstock for sustainable biodiesel production. This study looked at the prospect of using the easily separable magnetic nanocatalyst CrFe2O4 to reduce the manufacturing cost and being used in both esterification and transesterification simultaneously with less percentage of 0.5, produced the highest oil conversion. Before being used in conversion process, the magnetic nanocatalyst underwent Fourier transform infrared, XRD, scanning electron microscope, TGA, AFM, and BET analysis to evaluate its characteristics. Response surface methodology was employed in the conversion process and achieved 97% yield with the utilization of 0.4 (v/v) methanol/oil ratio, 0.5 wt. % catalyst concentration, 600 rpm stirring speed, and the duration of 80 min. The effect of methanol consumption and time was considerably more significant than the effect of stirring speed and catalyst usage, according to the analysis of variance. The generated biodiesel met all physicochemical characteristics with high potential, according to ASTM and EN standards. Right combinations of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids confirm the promising feasibility of the application of waste biomass feedstocks as an alternate option for the sustainable, cost effective and energy efficient synthesis of biodiesel production.
Comprehensive Review of Biodiesel Production from Nonedible Feedstocks: Environmental Impacts and Sustainable Solutions P. Sujin, Ajith J. Kings, L. R. Monisha Miriam, A. Saravanan Saravanan Journal of Environmental Nanotechnology, 2024 The pursuit of sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels has led to extensive research into biodiesel production and its compatibility with internal combustion (IC) engines. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of biodiesel synthesis methodologies using nonedible oil sources, focusing on their feasibility, efficiency, and environmental impact. Various nonedible oil feedstocks, such as Rubber, Jatropha, Pongamia, and Camelina, are evaluated for their potential as biodiesel precursors, considering factors such as availability, lipid content, and cultivation requirements. Furthermore, this review delves into the synthesis processes, including transesterification and esterification, highlighting recent advancements and challenges in improving reaction kinetics and yield. The characterization techniques employed to assess biodiesel quality, such as physicochemical properties and spectroscopic analysis, are also discussed. Additionally, the paper examines the compatibility of biodiesel derived from nonedible oils with IC engines, addressing issues related to engine performance, emissions, and durability. Comparative studies between biodiesel blends and conventional diesel fuel are presented, elucidating the effects on combustion characteristics, engine efficiency, and pollutant emissions. The potential of biodiesel to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate environmental pollution is explored, along with challenges associated with large-scale implementation and commercialization. In conclusion, this review provides valuable insights into the synthesis of biodiesel from nonedible oil sources and its compatibility with IC engines, offering a roadmap for future research directions and technology advancements in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
