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Research Article
Cotton Stalk-Derived Ferromagnetic Activated Carbon as an Efficient Fenton Catalyst for Cochineal Red Dye Degradation: Optimization and Kinetic Study
Maffeu Esther Judith
,
Mabou Leuna Jules,
Guy Bertrand Piegang Ngassa,
Makota Suzanne,
Mbouombouo Jacques Bomiko,
Tsokeing Lannang Carine,
Poumve Zapenaha Harlette,
Nintedem Magapgie Lincold,
Dina David Joh Daniel,
Gerard Pierre Tchieta*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
75-94
Received:
21 April 2026
Accepted:
21 May 2026
Published:
30 May 2026
Abstract: This study aims to synthesize activated carbon (ACGH) and ferromagnetic activated carbon (ACGH-Fe3O4) derived from cotton stalks (Gossypium herbaceum) and to evaluate their catalytic performance in the degradation of Cochineal Red A (E124) dye in aqueous solution using the heterogeneous Fenton process. The textural, structural, and chemical properties of the synthesized materials were characterized using different analytical techniques. The degradation of E124 was investigated by varying several operational parameters, including the pH of the solution (3–7), hydrogen peroxide concentration (0.5–1.5 mol.L-1), initial dye concentration (100–200 mg.L-1), and catalyst dosage (50–100 mg). FTIR analysis of ACGH-Fe3O4 confirmed the presence of Fe-O functional groups, while X ray diffraction analysis revealed the formation of a magnetite crystalline structure. The specific surface areas of ACGH and ACGH-Fe3O4 were determined to be approximately 694.35 and 287.14 m2.g-1, respectively, indicating the presence of micro and mesoporous structures. Catalytic performance tests showed that the degradation efficiencies of Fe3O4, ACGH, and ACGH-Fe3O4 reached 35.32%, 51.56%, and 99.95%, respectively, after 60 min of reaction. Process optimization using response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box–Behnken design (BBD) confirmed a maximum degradation efficiency of 99.97% at an optimal catalyst dosage of 1.5 g.L-1. The quadratic regression model provided coefficients of determination of R2 = 0.9217 and adjusted R2 = 0.8488, indicating good agreement between the experimental and predicted values. Kinetic analysis revealed that the degradation of E124 follows a pseudo-first-order model. In addition, the ACGH-Fe3O4 catalyst exhibited good reusability, maintaining degradation efficiencies between 90% and 70% after five successive cycles. Compared to conventional activated carbons, ACGH-Fe3O4 demonstrated superior catalytic efficiency, fast kinetics, and excellent reusability, highlighting its potential for practical wastewater treatment.
Abstract: This study aims to synthesize activated carbon (ACGH) and ferromagnetic activated carbon (ACGH-Fe3O4) derived from cotton stalks (Gossypium herbaceum) and to evaluate their catalytic performance in the degradation of Cochineal Red A (E124) dye in aqueous solution using the heterogeneous Fenton process. The textural, structural, and chemical propert...
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Research Article
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Grain Antioxidant Scavenging Activity on Stored Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana) Derived Yeast Under Laboratory Conditions
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
95-108
Received:
1 May 2026
Accepted:
15 May 2026
Published:
2 June 2026
Abstract: There is increased interest in the study and application of finger millet derived yeast (FM), especially in bioethanol industry. Several studies have shown the vitality of this yeast, but its preservation has been a challenge hindering its wider application. Natural antioxidant sources such as sorghum are promising non-toxic preservatives with strong radical scavenging activity. However, it is unknown whether its antioxidants have no side effects on FM, or can extend its shelf life. This study aimed at analysing sorghum grain extracts (SEs) antioxidant activity in terms of their antioxidant content and activity to preserve these yeasts, in small or large quantities for laboratory or industrial applications. Acombination of in vitro and in vivo methods were used to determine the antioxidant potential of SEs, and high performance liquid chromatography for compound characterization. The highest total phenolic content was recorded in K71S2814 (76.25) and lowest in KARI MATIMA1 (43.57) in mgGAE /100gdm, and that of total flavonoid content was reported in GBK006801 (37.31), and lowest in K15 OCHUTI (10.14) in mgCE /100gdm. The highest radical scavenging activity (IC50) was reported in GBK006801 (25.82ug/ml), and lowest in GBK032096 (86.01ug/ml), GBK006801 (25.82), (Severe≥5density) and K71S2814 (44.11), (Severe≥5density) had higher in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity than ASCORBIC ACID (46.25) (moderate survival ≤2.5density). Epigallocatechin gallate (0.002939-0.035139%), and epicatechin gallate (0.007525-0.251397%) very powerful antioxidants than ascorbic acid were isolated. Based on the study, it is concluded that sorghum is non-toxic, with antioxidants that can significantly extend FM shelf life.
Abstract: There is increased interest in the study and application of finger millet derived yeast (FM), especially in bioethanol industry. Several studies have shown the vitality of this yeast, but its preservation has been a challenge hindering its wider application. Natural antioxidant sources such as sorghum are promising non-toxic preservatives with stro...
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Research Article
Fatty Acid Profiles of Seed Oils, Plant-based Milks and Plant-based Cheeses from Cucurbita pepo, Citrullus lanatus and Lagenaria siceraria
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
109-117
Received:
3 May 2026
Accepted:
27 May 2026
Published:
27 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjc.20261403.13
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Abstract: This study determined and compared the fatty acid profiles of seed oils, plant-based milks and plant-based cheeses produced from three Cucurbitaceae species: Cucurbita pepo, Citrullus lanatus and Lagenaria siceraria. Lipids were extracted using cyclohexane, converted into fatty acid methyl esters with trimethylsulfonium hydroxide, and analysed by gas chromatography coupled with flame ionisation detection. Results were expressed as relative percentages of identified fatty acids. Unsaturated fatty acids predominated in all matrices. Linoleic acid (C18: 2 n-6) was the major fatty acid in C. lanatus and L. siceraria seeds, accounting for 61.98 ± 0.37% and 57.44 ± 0.34%, respectively, whereas C. pepo was characterised by a higher oleic acid level (35.30 ± 0.01%) and a lower linoleic acid proportion (41.52 ± 0.16%). Plant-based milks generally preserved the lipid signature of their corresponding seeds, suggesting that aqueous extraction and milk formulation did not markedly alter the relative profile of major fatty acids. In optimised plant-based cheeses, the profiles remained dominated by oleic and linoleic acids, although slight redistribution was observed, particularly a relative decrease in linoleate in F(CL) and F(CP). UFA/SFA ratios remained above 2.4 in all matrices, indicating a strong contribution of unsaturated fatty acids. These results support the nutritional and technological relevance of Cucurbitaceae seeds as raw materials for developing plant-based dairy analogues.
Abstract: This study determined and compared the fatty acid profiles of seed oils, plant-based milks and plant-based cheeses produced from three Cucurbitaceae species: Cucurbita pepo, Citrullus lanatus and Lagenaria siceraria. Lipids were extracted using cyclohexane, converted into fatty acid methyl esters with trimethylsulfonium hydroxide, and analysed by g...
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