Abstract: Compositions and methods of making and using silver nanoparticles embedded in biomass waste matrixes of various types is described. Exemplified compositions include a silver nanoparticle embedded in a cotton gin waste nanofiber composite. Compositions and methods of making and using aerogels comprising silver nanoparticles in cotton gin waste nanofiber are described. Exemplified uses of compositions include use as antimicrobial agents.

Abstract: A mixture comprised of about 60-85% of 2,4-toluenediamine (2,4-TDA) and about 15-40% of 2,6-toluenediamine (2,6-TDA) is melted, the temperature of the mixture is lowered to a 2,4-TDA nucleation temperature, and the temperature of the mixture is gradually reduced from the nucleation temperature to about 65 to about 70° C. The resultant mixture is in the form of a solids phase enriched in 2,4-TDA, and a novel and useful liquid phase enriched in 2,6-TDA. These phases are separated. Preferably the solids are further purified by “sweating” them and removing the sweated liquid impurities. The sweated liquid can be recycled together with another charge of a mixture comprised of 2,4-TDA and 2,6-TDA. 2,4-TDA can be produced with a purity of 96-99%.