Biocontrol Agents for Improved Agriculture, a volume in the Plant and Soil Microbiome series, presents both an advanced and current description of the important role of plant and soil microbiome in plant disease management. Including the latest biotechnological interventions for harnessing plant and soil microbiome and their potential in controlling plant pathogen/ disease, as well as the commercialization of biocontrol products and exploration of microbial derived bioactive compounds, this book provides an important reference on the challenges of biocontrol products. Sections explore the bacterial and fungal species successfully applied as plant and soil inoculant for the effective management of plant diseases. As these microbial biocontrol agents not only suppress the plant disease, but also enhance the growth or agricultural production in sustainable ways, the book focuses on the molecular aspect of plant- pathogen interactions and their biocontrol strategies via the use of plant and soil microbiome. This book is an important reference for those seeking sustainable, safe options for protecting against microbial agricultural loss and environmental damage.

Microbial Biomolecules: Emerging Approach in Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals and Environment Management explores and compiles new aspects of microbial-based biomolecules such as microbial enzymes, microbial metabolites, microbial surfactants, exopolysaccharides, and bioactive compounds and their potential applications in the field of health-related issues, sustainable agriculture and environment contamination management. Written for researchers, scientists, and graduate and PhD students in the areas of Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science and Pharmacology, this book covers the urgent need to explore eco-friendly and sustainable approaches to healthcare, agriculture and environmental contamination management.

Handbook of Stretchable and Elastomeric Textiles is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about elastomeric textiles, including manufacturing techniques, physical properties, processing methods, and in-use care. All types of stretchable textiles are covered, including polymers, fibers, yarns, fabrics and composites. Starting with the fundamentals of the synthesis, properties and processing of elastomeric materials, this book goes on to help the reader choose the most appropriate parameters for manufacturing and processing, as well as the best elastomeric material according to specific end use applications. In general, elastomeric textiles are difficult to handle. During the manufacturing of elastomeric fabric, the handling of yarns is complicated. In addition, the processing stage is also challenging due to the heat sensitivity of the materials that affects how they are dyed, printed, washed and dried. The specific techniques required to produce a successful elastomeric textile have been developed over many years, hence this expertise is hard to come by.

XAI Based Intelligent Systems for Society 5.0 focuses on the development and analysis of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI)-based models and intelligent systems that can be utilized for Society 5.0—characterized by a knowledge intensive, data driven, and non-monetary society. The book delves into the issues of transparency, explainability, data fusion, and interpretability, which are significant for the development of a super smart society and are addressed through XAI-based models and techniques. XAI-based deep learning models, fuzzy and hybrid intelligent systems, expert systems, and intrinsic explainable models in the context of Society 5.0 are presented in detail.The book also addresses—using XAI-based intelligent techniques—the privacy issues intrinsic in storing huge amounts of data or information in virtual space. The concept of Responsible AI, which is at the core of the future direction of XAI for Society 5.0, is also explored in this book. Finally, the application areas of XAI, including relevant case studies, are presented in the concluding chapter. This book serves as a valuable resource for graduate/post graduate students, academicians, analysts, computer scientists, engineers, researchers, professionals, and other personnel working in the area of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and intelligent systems, who are interested in creating a people-centric smart society.

Nanotechnology for Oil-Water Separation: From Fundamentals to Industrial Applications explores how nanotechnologically engineered solutions (modified meshes, carbon nanotubes, functionalized fabrics, textile or hybrid elements for bio-membranes, nanofibrous materials, and many more) can be used to remediate current damage to the environment for a better tomorrow. Design and fabrication of low-cost, effective and environmentally friendly micro/nanomaterials exhibiting strong wettability properties and mechanical and chemical stability are examined, along with current research developments and possible future directions, making this book an essential read for researchers, advanced students, and industry professionals with an interest in nanotechnology and sustainable (bio)technologies. The increasing amounts of industrial substances released by petrochemical, steel or gas-generating plants and food-processing factories into water poses an ever more serious environmental threat. Due to the significant adverse impact on the natural ecosystem, aquatic organisms and human health, the scientific community has made its priority to find sustainable methods to separate oil-water mixtures.

Advances in Nanotechnology for Marine Antifouling surveys the latest research in the application of nanotechnology for biofouling inhibition. The book gathers in-depth information on the various micro and nano-techniques, nanocoatings, polymeric composites paints, methods of application and prevention mechanisms. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students across anti-biofouling, nanotechnology, nanomaterials, polymer nanocomposites, coatings, maritime technology, chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science, and materials science and engineering. This is also essential reading for industrial scientists, engineers, R&D, and other professionals with an interest in the use of nanotechnology for antifouling, particularly in the maritime sector. Nanotechnologies have been recognized as a powerful tool in antifouling strategies with nanocoatings with efficient properties enabling increased durability and performance in the prevention of biofouling and corrosion while replacing potentially more harmful chemicals.

Nanomaterials for Bioreactors and Bioprocessing Applications explores the potential of nanomaterials in improving the efficiency of bioprocessing industries and next-generation bioreactors. The book provides information on various newly synthesized nanomaterials in bioreactors for scaling up the bioprocess to an industrial level, the criteria and properties of nanomaterials to be used in bioprocessing, advantages, challenges while using the nanomaterials, and the economic constraints. In addition, the book also discusses the fate of various nanomaterials in the bioprocess, the chances of product contamination and its prevention. This book is an important reference source for materials scientists and biomedical engineers information on the synthesized nanomaterials that are available for bioreactors and bioprocesses, and the various optimized conditions and precautions to be taken.

Nanotechnology for Advanced Biofuels: Fundamentals and Applications highlights emerging techniques for the formulation of fuels using nanotechnology and bio-based concepts. The addition of high-energy nanoparticles and biologically derived molecules in liquid fuel can increase the potential of energy-rich compounds. Key challenges in the production of nanotechnology-based fuels and their combustion or ignition during the operation are covered, along with the emission of oxidized particles and by-products of incomplete combustion and nano-fuels as an emerging field. The bio-based energy-rich fuels are largely diffused in conventionally used fuels. The addition of biofuels and nano-additives to pre-existing fuels can offer opportunities for developing modified fuels in domestic industries with the maximum usage of renewable biomass. This is an important reference source for materials scientists, energy scientists and chemical engineers who want to understand more about how nanotechnology can help create more efficient biofuels.

Antiviral and Antimicrobial Smart Coatings: Fundamentals and Applications provides a critical analysis of all types of smart antiviral and antimicrobial coatings currently being researched. The book opens with a discussion of the microbial and viral pathogens, including how to identify them and their interaction with surfaces. The next three sections look at the concept of smart coatings, specifically antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral smart coatings, types, effects, and applications. The book concludes by discussing the methods and standards for characterization of coatings and then presents several real world case studies. A valuable resource for those working in the smart coatings field.

Nanotechnology-Based E-Noses: Fundamentals and Emerging Applications reviews advances in nanomaterials and their modification for use in e-sensors. Theoretical understanding of nanomaterials and technologies for improving sensors with better detection limits are covered, as are the most relevant nanomaterials, their synthesis strategies and the relationship between properties and device performance. Current state-of-the-art progress in nanotechnology device fabrication, along with directions for future applications and challenges are also discussed. This book will be an ideal resource for materials scientists, engineers, chemists, researchers in academia and R&D in industry. Recently, "e-noses" or "electronic sensors" are emerging as advanced technologies for the fast detection of chemicals, gases and explosives. The concept behind the "e-nose" is similar to the capability of humans and dogs in detecting materials based on odors. Nanomaterials can be used for e-nose technologies but their properties must be modified to make them effective sensors. The sensing capability and performance these materials depend on several factors such as morphology, dopants, micro-additives, design of sensors, phase and structure of the nanomaterials.

Nano-biosorbents for Decontamination of Water, Air, and Soil Pollution explores the properties of nanobiosorbents and their applications in the removal of contaminants from the natural environment. The use of nanobiosorbents for environmental protection is a combinational approach that incorporates nanotechnology with naturally occurring biopolymers that form an amalgamation of nano-biopolymers used as sorbent materials in the removal of a variety of contaminants from wastewaters. This is an important reference source for materials scientists, bioscientists and environmental scientists who are looking to understand how nanobiosorbents are being used for a range of environmental applications.

Smart Polymer Nanocomposites: Design, Synthesis, Functionalization, Properties, and Applications brings together the latest research on synthetic methods and surface functionalization of polymers and polymer composites for advanced applications. Sections cover the basic principles of advanced polymer nanocomposites, including morphology, materials, characterization, and copolymerization, provide in-depth coverage of synthetic methods, facilitating the preparation of polymeric nanoparticles with the required properties, examine the morphologies of polymer nanocomposites and stimuli-responsive surfaces, and focus on cutting-edge approaches to tailoring polymeric nanocomposites according to the requirements. The book's final chapters focus on smart polymer nanocomposites for specific advanced applications, including high-temperature environments, bone tissue regeneration, biomedicine, wastewater treatment, dielectric and energy storage, chiral separation, food packaging, sensing, and drug delivery. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students in polymer science, composite science, nanotechnology, and materials science, as well as those approaching the area from a range of other disciplines, including industry R&D.

Nano-Bioremediation: Fundamentals and Applications explores how nano-bioremediation is used to remedy environmental pollutants. The book's chapters focus on the design, fabrication and application of advanced nanomaterials and their integration with biotechnological processes for the monitoring and treatment of pollutants in environmental matrices. It is an important reference source for materials scientists, engineers and environmental scientists who are looking to increase their understanding of bioremediation at the nanoscale. The mitigation of environmental pollution is the biggest challenge to researchers and the scientific community, hence this book provides answers to some important questions. As an advanced hybrid technology, nano-bioremediation refers to the integration of nanomaterials and bioremediation for the remediation of pollutants. The rapid pace of urbanization, massive development of industrial sectors, and modern agricultural practices all cause a controlled or uncontrolled release of environmentally-related hazardous contaminants that are seriously threatening every key sphere, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and anthroposphere.

Biodegradation and Biodeterioration at the Nanoscale describes the biodegradation and biodeterioration of materials in the presence of nanomaterials. The book's chapters focus on the basic principles, action mechanisms and promising applications of advanced nanomaterials, along with their integration with biotechnological processes for controlled degradation and deterioration of materials. In addition, the current research indications, positive or negative environmental impacts, legislation and future directions are also discussed. This book is an important reference source for researchers, engineers and scientists working in environmental remediation, biotechnology, materials science, corrosion and nanotechnology.

Advances in Chemical Pollution, Environmental Management and Protection Volume 10 highlights new advances in the field, with this new volume presenting interesting topic on Recent Advancements In Waste Water Management: Nano-based Remediation

MXene-based Hybrid Nano-Architectures for Environmental Remediation and Sensor Applications: From Design to Applications brings together the state-of-the-art in molecular design, synthetic approaches, unique properties, and applications of MXene-based hybrid nanomaterials, which combine 2D MXenes with low dimensional materials and open the door to novel solutions in environmental remediation, sensing, and other areas. The book begins by introducing the fundamentals of MXenes and MXene-based hybrid nano-architectures, including synthesis methods, structural design, basic properties, and characterization techniques. The second section of the book provides in-depth coverage of specific areas of environmental remediation and removal, covering gases, toxic heavy metals, organic pollutants, pharmaceuticals, organic dyes, pesticides, and inorganic pollutants. This is followed by a section focusing on targeted sensing applications, including electrochemical sensors, optical sensors, biosensors, and strain sensors. The final chapters consider other application areas for MXene-based hybrid nano-architectures, such as wearable devices and thermal energy storage, and address the other key considerations of secondary environmental contamination, toxicity, regeneration and re-use of MXenes, and future opportunities. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students across nanotechnology, environmental science, biotechnology, chemistry, and materials science and engineering, as well as industrial scientists, engineers, and R&D professionals with an interest in MXenes and advanced nanomaterials for a range of advanced applications, notably in environmental remediation and sensing.

The need for sustainable advancement in agriculture practices continues to press. Achieving optimum yields of crops has traditionally meant farmers continuously using large amounts of chemical fertilizers or pesticides but the indiscriminate use of these pesticides has adversely affected the environment, non- target microorganisms, soil textures and human health. Sustainable Agricultural Practices, a volume in the Plant and Soil Microbiome series, presents foundational information into the successful utilization of different biocontrol agents (especially bacteria and fungi actinomycetes) under field conditions which can help relieve the pressure of overexploitation of synthetic pesticides in agriculture. As many of the microorganisms including nitrogen fixing bacteria and cyanobacteria can be used as bio inoculants, they offer opportunities to not only to enhance the crop productivity but also for maintaining the natural properties of agricultural soils. The volume explores the multifaceted benefits derived from varieties of microorganisms existing in different components of ecosystem, many of which could potentially be employed as probiotics for improved human and livestock health. Researchers seeking to expand their understanding of related fields, and students seeking foundational concept coverage will find this volume valuable.

Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials in the Agri-Food Industries: Smart Nanoarchitectures, Technologies, Challenges, and Applications brings together the latest advances in the utilization of advances nanotechnology, nanoarchitectures, and nanomaterials in the agricultural and food sectors. The book begins by discussing recent trends towards sustainable synthesis and application, covering green nanomaterials and biodegradable nanomaterials and composites. Subsequent chapters focus on key application areas of engineered nanomaterials in both agriculture and food processing, such as crop production and protection, delivery vehicles, detection of contaminants, nanobionic and genetic engineering in plants, active food packaging and preservation, enhanced food formulations and nutrients, nanoscale additives for freshness, and nanosensors. This is followed by a section that addresses key challenges relating to the application of nanostructures and nanodevices in these sectors, including global market considerations, health and environmental concerns, and intellectual property and socio-economic issues. Finally, policy implications and future perspective for the field are reviewed in detail.

Metagenomics to Bioremediation: Applications, Cutting Edge Tools, and Future Outlook provides detailed insight into metagenomics approaches to bioremediation in a comprehensive manner, thus enabling the analysis of microbial behavior at a community level under different environmental stresses during degradation and detoxification of environmental pollutants. The book summarizes each and all aspects of metagenomics applications to bioremediation, helping readers overcome the lack of updated information on advancement in microbial ecology dealing with pollution abatement. Users will find insight not only on the fundamentals of metagenomics and bioremediation, but also on recent trends and future expectations. This book will appeal to readers from diverse backgrounds in biology, chemistry and life sciences.

This book provides an excellent review and analysis of the latest information on rechargeable Li-S battery research. With a clear and concise writing style and in-depth technical material, this book will appeal to undergraduates and graduates, researchers, chemists, material scientists, and physicists working in the field of energy storage, especially those with an interest in Li-S battery technology. IEEE Electrical Insulation Magazine shows lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries give us an alternative to the more prevalent lithium-ion (Li-ion) versions and are known for their observed high-energy densities. Systems using Li-S batteries are in the early stages of development, and commercialization however could potentially provide higher, safer levels of energy at significantly lower cost. In this book, the history, scientific background, challenges, and future perspectives of the lithium-sulfur system are presented by experts in the field. Focus is on past and recent advances of each cell compartment responsible for the performance of the Li-S battery and includes analysis of characterization tools, new designs, and computational modeling. As a comprehensive review of the current state of play, it is ideal for undergraduates, graduate students, researchers, physicists, chemists, and materials scientists interested in energy storage, material science, and electrochemistry.

This book highlights the several pollutants and their derivatives that exist in water and wastewater, such as pharmaceuticals, antibiotics, personal care products, heavy metals, pesticides, dyes etc., as a result of rapid urbanization and industrialization. Several part pollution is caused by nutrients, organics, and contaminants with low concentration but is highly toxic to human and aquatic environment. This book provides a  holistic approach in terms of measurement, monitoring, and recent advances in treatment technologies for water and wastewater treatment and water reuse. The technologies involve the physio-chemical, biological and advanced oxidation processes in which they are modified or coupled with nanomaterials and/or newly developed products for improving the performance of the current treatment processes. In addition, the membrane processes include recent research on the removal of challenging chemicals by various membrane bioreactors and reverse osmosis processes.

Bionanocatalysis: From Design to Applications discusses recent advances in nano-biocatalysis, fundamental design concepts and their applications in a variety of industry sectors. Strategies for immobilizing enzymes onto nanocarriers, made from polymers, silicas, carbons, and metals, by physical adsorption, covalent binding, cross-linking, or specific ligand spacers are also discussed as are the advantages, problems and solutions derived from the use of non-porous nanomaterials for enzyme immobilization. This is an important reference source for materials scientists and chemical engineers who would like to learn more about how nanobiocatalysts are designed and used. Biocatalysis has emerged as a sustainable technique to synthesize valuable commodity chemicals with wide applications in various industrial domains, such as in agriculture, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, biosensors, biofuel cells, biochemicals, and foods. The synergistic integration of bio-catalysis engineering with nanostructured materials, as unique multifunctional carrier matrices, has emerged as a new interface of nano-biocatalysis (NBC).

This up-to-date reference book discusses the effects of climate change on the biodiversity of insect pests. The changing climate and agricultural intensification practices impact negatively on insect biodiversity. The book explains the significance of insect pests for evaluating climatic impacts on a wide range of ecological systems. It covers the effect of climate change on pollinators, and household and agricultural insect pests. It explains how climate-smart agriculture can enhance productivity and food security. Key points - Reviews the effects of climate change on plant-insect interactions Includes topics such insect biodiversity informatics and conservation Discusses food security, pest management, and beneficial and social insects Covers topics like precision agriculture and climate-smart agriculture Provides insights on the relation between agriculture intensification and insect biodiversity This book is meant for scientists, researchers, and students working in the fields of agriculture, entomology, ecology, plant science, environmental biology, and biotechnology.

Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Hazards and Safety explains the fundamental properties of nanomaterials, covering their types and classifications. The book includes methods of preparation and characterization of nanostructured materials. It explains the principles and fundamentals of nanomaterials, with information on both pure and composite-based materials with e nanostructures, outlines the latest developments and advances in nanomaterials, and highlights toxic effects and protection. This book is designed to appeal to a wide readership of academic and industrial researchers, focusing on nanotechnology and nanomaterials, sustainable chemistry, energy conversion and storage, nanotechnology, chemical engineering, environmental protection, optoelectronics, sensors, and surface and interface science.

Nanotechnology and Photocatalysis for Environmental Applications focuses on nanostructured control, synthesis methods, activity enhancement strategies, environmental applications, and perspectives of semiconductor-based nanostructures. The book offers future guidelines for designing new semiconductor-based photocatalysts, with low cost and high efficiency, for a range of products aimed at environmental protection. The book covers the fundamentals of nanotechnology, the synthesis of nanotechnology, and the use of metal oxide, metal sulfide, and carbon-based nanomaterials in photocatalysis. The book also discusses the major challenges of using photocatalytic nanomaterials on a broad scale. The book then explores how photocatalytic nanomaterials and nanocomposites are being used for sustainable development applications, including environmental protection, pharmaceuticals, and air purification. The final chapter considers the recent advances in the field and outlines future perspectives on the technology. This is an important reference for materials scientists, chemical engineers, energy scientists, and anyone looking to understand more about the photocatalytic potential of nanomaterials, and their possible environmental applications.