Optimizing saffron cormlet production through substrate composition nutrient concentration and irrigation management in soilless cultivation.

A two-year study has been conducted to optimize saffron cormlet production in a soilless cultivation system. Variations in the concentration of phosphate, boron, and irrigation events were assessed in the first year. Subsequently, after optimizing the substrate composition, the effects of nutrient solution volume and the concentration of nitrate, iron, and boron were investigated on the yield and weight of cormlets and leaves, photosynthetic activities, and productivity of nutrient solutions in the second year.

Sandwich type polyoxometalates encapsulated into the mesoporous material: synthesis, characterization and catalytic application in the selective oxidation of sulfides.

The A-type sandwich polyoxometalates of [(HOSnOH)(PWO)] (PWSn) and [(OCeO)(PWO)] (PWCe) were immobilized for the first time into the porous metal-organic framework MIL-101(Cr). FT-IR, powder X-ray diffraction, SEM-EDX, ICP analysis, N adsorption and thermogravimetric analysis collectively confirmed immobilization and good distribution of polyoxometalates into cages of MIL-101(Cr). The catalytic activities of the homogeneous PWSn and PWCe and the corresponding heterogeneous catalysts were examined in the oxidation of sulfides to sulfones with HO as the oxidant at room temperature.