Asian Journal of Applied Chemistry Research

Sustainable Synthesis of Nanomaterials for Energy Storage Applications

Ali Islamiyat Oluwatosin — 2025-09-25

The global transition toward sustainable energy systems has intensified the need for advanced energy storage technologies, with nanomaterials playing a pivotal role in enhancing device performance. The synthesis of nanomaterials has traditionally relied on methods that pose significant environmental risks due to high-energy demands, hazardous chemicals, and waste generation. This review examines the paradigm shift toward sustainable synthesis approaches that integrate green chemistry principles while maintaining high material performance. Most countries worldwide have committed to reaching carbon neutrality by the end of the century, with the aim to achieve Net Zero before 2060, making sustainable nanomaterial production critical for achieving climate goals. The analysis reveals that biomass-derived materials, green solvents, and energy-efficient processing techniques can achieve comparable performance to conventional methods while significantly reducing environmental impact. Key challenges include scalability, cost optimization, and standardization, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration for successful implementation.

The Effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Extract on Hematological Parameters in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Ekpe, Ini Patrick — 2025-09-09

Background: Eucalyptus camaldulensis, a plant renowned in traditional Nigerian medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties including antiseptic, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes hematological abnormalities that worsen outcomes, underscoring the need for plant-based interventions like Eucalyptus camaldulensis with antioxidant and hematopoietic potential.

Aim: To investigated the potential ameliorative effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract on hematological parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats.

Method: Forty-two male rats (100–250g) were randomly assigned to six groups (n=7): normal control, diabetic control (negative), insulin-treated (0.2ml intraperitoneally), and three groups administered E. camaldulensis leaf extract orally at doses of 250, 350, and 450 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Treatments lasted for 21 days.

Result: Hematological evaluation showed that diabetes induced alterations in RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC, and platelet counts. The extract, particularly at 350 and 450 mg/kg, significantly improved several hematological parameters. The 350 mg/kg dose notably elevated platelet counts (753.67 ± 30.90), while the 450 mg/kg dose increased Hb (14.50 ± 0.39), WBC (12.66 ± 0.79), and MCHC (29.98 ± 0.24). Furthermore, neutrophil levels improved significantly (27.20 ± 4.18) in the 450mg/kg extract-treated group compared to diabetic and insulin-treated controls, suggesting enhanced immune response and erythropoiesis.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaf extract exerts hematological restorative effects in diabetic conditions, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent in managing diabetes-related hematological complications.

Comparative Evaluation of in-vitro Antioxidant Capacity of Petroleum-ether Extract of Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle Flower) and Jatropha tanjorensis Leaf

Akpata E. I. — 2025-09-11

Aims: The comparative evaluation of in vitro antioxidant capacity of petroleum-ether extract of Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle flower) and Jatropha tanjorensis leaf was carried out in this study.

Methodology: This was done using various antioxidant assays such as Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power, 2, 2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, Lipid Peroxidation and Nitric Oxide Radical scavenging activity. Standard biochemical methods were used for the analyses. Ascorbic acid served as the standard antioxidant.

Results: The result showed a non-significant increase (P >0.05) in the Ferric reducing power capacity and 2, 2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid of Jatropha tanjorensis leaf when compared to Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle flower). There was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in free radical scavenging activity of Jatropha tanjorensis leaf extract when compared to Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle flower). The result also showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in lipid peroxidation scavenging activities of Jatropha tanjorensis leaf when compared to Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle flower). There was a non-significant (P > 0.05) decrease in Nitric oxide scavenging activities of Hibiscus sabdarrifa (Roselle flower) and Jatropha tanjorensis leaf extract when compared to the standard antioxidant L-ascorbic acid.

Conclusion: This study showed that although Hibiscus sabdariffa possesses antioxidant capacity, Jatropha tanjorensis leaf extract had a higher antioxidant activity.

Identification of Bio-Active Compounds in Hexane Extract of Plagiochasma intermedium Lindenb. & Gottsche (A-Liverwort) Using UV, FT-IR and GC-MS Techniques

Monika K. Shekhawat — 2025-09-13

The presence of phytochemicals has been identified from the liverwort Plagiochasma intermedium, belonging to the family Atoniaceae. The objective of this study was to analyse and identify the bioactive compounds from whole thallus hexane extract of P. intermedium using UV-Vis, FT-RI and GC-MS spectroscopy techniques. Preliminary phytochemical screening of this extract was also done by using the standard methods, this study revealed the presence of various primary and secondary metabolites. Spectral data of UV-Visible analysis showed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. FT-IR spectra absorption peaks displayed distinct vibrational stretching including C-H, C-O, and (CH₂)n bending indicated the presence of lipophilic substances, like alkanes, alcohols, fatty acids, terpenes, fatty acid esters, and phytosterols. GC-MS analysis of hexane extract of this plant thalli indicated the presence of 36 volatile bioactive compounds including pentane, 2,4-dimethyl- (65.30%), n-hexane (18.87%), pentane, 2-methyl- (4.31%), and pentane, 3-methyl- (2.75%) in major quantity. The findings of the present study revealed that this research is the initial documentation of the presence of various kinds of bioactive compounds in P. intermedium, and all of which are known to have a variety of biological activities therefore, the current study suggests that this bryophyte can be used as a valuable source of new herbal drug discovery for the benefit of human society.

The Role of Dietary Heavy Metal Exposure and Socio-Behavioral Factors in the Etiology of Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Origin (CKDu) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Senthur.S — 2025-09-18

Globally, heavy metal exposure is one of the major toxic pollutant in the environment which cause severe diseases. Chronic Kidney Disease with unknown etiology (CKDu) is an irreversible disease and most challenging as its late indication of symptoms. Sri Lanka is being affected by CKDu since last couple of decades where dry zones especially Anuradhapura district of North Central Province is mostly affected by CKDu. This study puts contribution to identify the causes of CKDu of Sri Lanka by including chemical analysis on food items, social survey among both CKDu affected and non-affected groups. Heavy metal analyses of fish (muscle and liver parts) in eight locations from CKDu endemic region were carried out. The samples were collected from most CKDu affected places of Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka. Higher concentrations of Cadmium (Cd) were found in fish muscles in three locations. Mean weekly intake of Cd of three locations exceeded the prescribed guidelines with highest weekly intake of Cd via fish of 12.8 µg/kg body weight (Medawachchiya) and mean weekly intake of Pb through fish exceeded FAO guidelines only in Padaviya. However, mean weekly intake of other metals via fish were found to be lower the relevant standards. Liver part of fish showed higher rate of accumulation for metals Zn, Mn, As and Cr in the most of the studied locations than muscles part of fish. Social survey says over 15 years agricultural experienced farmers age more than 41 years old, who have history of work more than 5 days in agriculture field with low water intake (less than 2 litres/day), consume fish more than 5 days per week, chew betel 4-6 times per day and consume local liquor more than 4 times per week showed high chance for CKDu development than others in Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka.

Proximate, Physicochemical and Phytochemical Evaluation of Biscuits Produced from Millet and Soybean Flour

Ernest Eguono EMOJORHO — 2025-09-19

The concept of employing sorghum and millet blends to make nutrient-dense biscuits sounds like a very alluring solution to the identified nutritional problems. Wheat flour must be substituted with local agricultural goods due to the high cost of importing wheat, which negatively affects our economy. The present study aimed to determine the proximate, physicochemical, and phytochemical characteristics of biscuits made with millet and soybean flour. Standard procedures were used to generate flour samples from various millets and soybeans. These samples were then combined with wheat flour to make biscuits and tested for proximate, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties. While 100% wheat flour was employed as a control for biscuit manufacture, millet and soybean flours were utilized to replace 25% and 50% of the wheat flour, respectively. Protein ranged from 10.13 to 13.81 percent, and 3.73 to 3.99 percent, according to the proximate composition. Fat (7.81 to 9.96%), crude fiber (2.40 to 2.61%), and ash (64.66% to 74.95%). 12.29 to 12.76 percent moisture content for carbohydrates. The phytate, tannin and oxalate content of the biscuit samples ranged from 32.69 to 44.66 mg/100g, 11.24 to 20.13 mg/100g, and 0.15 to 3.86 mg/100g, in that order. The flour's physicochemical characteristics revealed an oil absorption capacity of 2.32 to 3.02 g/g and a water absorption capacity of 1.95 to 2.32 g/g. In biscuits, millet and soybean flour might be used in place of wheat flour without adversely impacting the bread's chemical composition. When compared to biscuits made with wheat flour, the bread's nutritional value was improved by using millet and soybean flour. Soybean and millet composite flour should be combined with wheat flour to make biscuits. Future research should also examine how well millet and soybean flour work in baked goods like cakes and bread.

Phytochemical Profiling and HPLC Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Hyptis suaveolens, Cymbopogon citratus, and Eucalyptus globulus from Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Inya-Agha Somtochukwu Obiahu — 2025-09-24

This study aimed to identify and quantify the phytochemicals and bioactive compounds detectable from the leaves of three medicinal plants: Hyptis suaveolens (Bushmint), Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass), and Eucalyptus globulus (Blue gum), collected from Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Methanol extraction was performed using a Soxhlet apparatus, followed by fractionation via column chromatography and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). High-Performance Liquid Chromatography was used to quantify the phytoconstituents. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of significant levels of various phytochemicals. Alkaloids and Anthraquinone were the most abundant and highest in E. globulus (11.1 mg/100g and 11.05 mg/100g respectively), while tannins were most abundant in H. suaveolens (9.84 mg/100g) and C. citratus (8.56 mg/100g). High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified and quantified eleven (11) major bioactive compounds. Hyptis suaveolens recorded the highest concentrations for 10 compounds. Flavonoids were the most prominent bioactive compounds found in all three plants constituting approximately 54.37%, 48.69% and 55.92% of the total quantified bioactive compounds in Eucalyptus globulus, Hyptis suaveolens, and Cymbopogon citratus respectively. Hyptis suaveolens extract showed remarkably high concentrations of lunamarin (76.32 µg/ml), ribalinidine (64.08 µg/ml), gallocatechin (48.58 µg/ml), and flavonone (33.45 µg/ml). The results confirmed that these plants, especially H. suaveolens, are rich sources of diverse bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological value, justifying their traditional uses and suggesting further investigation into their therapeutic applications.

Development of Nutrient-dense Biscuits from Sorghum and Bambara Groundnut Flour

Ernest Eguono EMOJORHO — 2025-09-24

Dietary fibres, or the fibrous, indigestible parts of food, are an essential component of a healthy diet. Fibres help food pass through the colon more quickly and retain water, which has a laxative effect. The study's objective was to ascertain the proximate, functional, and antinutritional properties of biscuits made with sorghum and Bambara groundnut flour. Using standard procedures, flour samples from various Bambara groundnut and sorghum varieties were produced, combined with wheat flour to create biscuits, and then tested for proximate, functional, and antinutritional properties. Here, 25% and 50% of the wheat flour, respectively, were used in place of the bambara groundnut and sorghum flour. The control group consisted of biscuits made entirely of wheat flour. While 100% wheat flour was used as a control for biscuit manufacturing, sorghum and Bambara groundnut flours were used to replace 25% and 50% of the wheat flour, respectively. The proximate composition of the biscuits ranged from 10.41% to 14.26% protein, fat (13.01 to 15.34%), crude fibre (5.02 to 6.32%), ash (13.01 to 15.34%), and 52.78% and 59.82% carbohydrates. In that sequence, the biscuit samples' phytate, tannin, and oxalate contents were 69.56 mg/100g and 101.54 mg/100g, 11.24 to 20.13 mg/100g, and 20.83 mg/100g and 28.15 mg/100g, respectively. The functional properties of the flour showed that its bulk density was between 0.70 and 0.71 g/cm3, its oil absorption capacity was between 1.30 and 1.85 g/g, and its water absorption capacity was between 1.95 and 2.14 g/g. The use of the composite flours increased the biscuits' nutritional value when compared to biscuits made with wheat flour. In addition to assessing the nutritional value of biscuits enhanced with sorghum and bambara flour, research should be done on how well these flours work in baked goods like bread, cakes, and other items. To determine the ideal packaging suggested for the prepared samples, further investigation should be done.

A Mild and Effective ZnBF4 Catalyzed Protocol for Amidoalkyl Naphthol Synthesis

Nagesh Raghunath Sutar — 2025-09-26

An effective and efficient protocol has been developed for the synthesis of 1-amidoalkyl-2-naphthols which are biologically active organic compounds having prime place in the field of pharmaceuticals products. In this protocol, the synthesis was carried out using differentially substituted aromatic aldehydes, β-naphthol and amide derivatives via multicomponent pathway in presence of aqueous solution of Zinc tetrafluoroborate (ZnBF₄) in Ethanol as catalyst. The catalyst was found to be heterogeneous and easily separable from reaction medium though it was not found to be reusable in the present reaction system. The use of aqueous solvent offers green nature to the protocol. The overall procedure was found to be simple; reaction rate was high irrespective of nature of aromatic aldehydes and yields were satisfactory.

Proximate Composition and Mineral Content of Mango and Guava Leaves Grown in Ondo State, Nigeria

Jacob Olabode Alademeyin — 2025-09-30

This study investigates the proximate composition and mineral content of mango (Mangifera indica) and guava (Psidium guajava) leaves collected from Ondo State, Nigeria, which invariable revealed some of their nutritional and potential therapeutic value. The percentage moisture, ash, crude fiber, crude protein and carbohydrate content of the guava leaves under study are 8.13±0.10, 9.33±0.07, 6.08±0.05, 22.84±1.02,10.83±0.47 and 42.60±0.15 respectively while that of mango leaves were found to be 7.64±0.08, 10.15± 0.10, 3.69± 0.04, 19.65± 0.10, 8.64±0.12 and 50.07±0.60. Guava leaves are higher in moisture, crude fat, crude fiber, and crude protein, making them richer in lipids, structural components, and proteins. Mango leaves are higher in ash content and carbohydrates, indicating more mineral matter and energy-providing compounds. The mineral composition(mg/100g) of both guava and mango leaves under study are as follows: Calcium (395.80±0.4048; 240.35±0.13), Magnesium (100.35±0.1756; 95.5±0.32), Potassium (51.75±1.0259; 498.60±0.28), Sodium (9.50±0.05;11.46±0.07), Iron (6.66±0.1058; 5.63±0.08), Zinc (2.16±0.0504; 1.25±0.05) .Guava Leaves possessed higher calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc content while the amount of potassium in mango is Significantly higher and sodium content is slightly higher. The higher mineral content of the guava leaves suggests their usefulness as dietary supplements for managing nutrient deficiencies, while the high carbohydrate content of mango leaves indicate their potential as energy boosters. This comparative study affirm the ethnomedicinal relevance of these plants and advocates for their incorporation into functional food and nutraceutical product development.

Phytochemical Profile and Antimicrobial Activities of Eucalyptol Oil against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus: Time–Kill Kinetics and Comparative Study

Grace K. Abere — 2025-10-08

Pneumonia remains a major global health problem, worsened by the growing resistance of pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus to antibiotics. This study investigated the phytochemical composition, functional groups, and antimicrobial activity of steam-distilled essential oil (EO) from Eucalyptus globulus leaves grown in Narok, Kenya. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of terpenoids, mainly 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and limonene. FTIR analysis revealed characteristic absorption peaks typical of monoterpenes, including aliphatic C–H stretching at 2960–2850 cm⁻¹, CH₃ deformation at 1374 cm⁻¹, and ether C–O–C vibrations at 1214 and 1079 cm⁻¹, consistent with cineole. Additional peaks were observed at 984 cm⁻¹ (CH₂ wagging), 886 cm⁻¹ (=C–H bending), and 810 cm⁻¹ (ring vibrations), confirming the presence of bicyclic and monocyclic terpenes. Antimicrobial tests revealed concentration-dependent inhibition, with maximum zones of 19.68 ± 0.41 mm against K. pneumoniae and 18.34 ± 0.36 mm against S. aureus at 100% EO. Time–kill kinetics showed rapid bactericidal activity against S. aureus at 4×MIC within 6 hours while K. pneumoniae showed slower, mainly bacteriostatic activity at the same concentration. Comparative study showed that the Kenyan-derived EO has similar composition and activity to eucalyptus oils from other regions, but was more effective against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative strains. The findings support the potential use of Eucalyptus EO as a natural antimicrobial, especially for Gram-positive respiratory pathogens, while indicating its limited action against resistant Gram-negative bacteria.

Hepato-curative Potential of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Anisopus mannii in CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxic Rats

Zainab Garba Kabir — 2025-10-10

Aim: To investigate the hepato-curative effects of the methanolic leaf extract of Anisopus mannii.

Study Design: An in vivo experimental study using CCl₄-induced hepatotoxic albino rats to evaluate the hepato-curative effects of the methanolic leaf extract of Anisopus mannii.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, between December 2023 and May 2024.

Methodology: The leaf extract was evaluated for the presence of phytochemicals. The extract was subjected to thin layer chromatography, and the fractions obtained were fed to the hepatotoxic wistar albino rats.

Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, phenols and terpenoids. Thin layer chromatography revealed four (4) fractions. The hepato-curative effect was evaluated in the hepatotoxic albino rats over three weeks. The fractions significantly improved alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and others compared to hepatotoxic control group. These effects were comparable to the standard drug Silymarin.

Conclusion: This study showed that the methanolic leaf extract of Anisopus mannii possesses hepato-curative potential which could be beneficial in the treatment of hepatotoxicity. Fraction 3 and Fraction 4 were found to be the most effective in terms of the hepatp-curative potential.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Application of Activated Biomaterials as Potential Adsorbents for the Removal of Cr(VI), Pb(II), and Cu(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution

Etong Inyang Daniel — 2025-10-13

Piliostigma thonningii (PSH), Perqutinia negrecrecens (PNS), and Hildegardia barteri (HB) activated carbon bio-sorbents were prepared for removal of Cr(VI), Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The bio-sorbents were characterized using SEM, EDX, FTIR, and CHN methods. The SEM results showed crystalline material with flake-like structures. Effect of concentrations, contact time, pH, adsorbent dosage and temperature were studied to determine the optimal conditions of adsorption. The adsorption capacities of Pb (II) ions was 14.29, 13.74 and 16.67, while Cu(II) ions was 24.88, 17.21 and 25.13 mg/g onto HB, PSH and PNS respectively. Optimum temperature of adsorption was recorded at 40 ^oC in the pH range between 6 and 7. The thermodynamic study revealed that ∆G◦ values were between -20 and 0 KJmol^-1suggesting spontaneous adsorption. The ∆H for Cr(VI) ions adsorption was +0.067, +0.168, and +0.025 kJ/mol, while Pb(II) ions was +0.137, +0.095, and +0.178 kJ/mol, with that of Cu(II) ions as +0.005, +0.002, and +0.0400 kJ/mol onto PSH, PNS and HB respectively. The ∆S for Cr(VI) ions was found to be +0.320, +0317 and +0.378 kJ/mol, with that of Pb(II) ions as +0.261, 0.244 and 0.188 kJ/mol, while Cu(II) ions was +0.236, +0.210 and +0.193 kJ/mol respectively, showing endothermic and randomness of all the adsorption. The Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second order kinetics fitted well to all the adsorption processes. The results demonstrated that the activated carbon bio-sorbents from the three biomasses have the potential to be employed as low-cost adsorbents.