Journal Description
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials
is an international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary scholarly open access journal, published semimonthly online by MDPI. It publishes reviews, regular research papers, communications, and short notes that are relevant to any field of study that involves nanomaterials, with respect to their science and application. The Spanish Carbon Group (GEC) is affiliated with Nanomaterials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Physics, Applied) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Chemical Engineering )
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Nanomaterials include: Nanomanufacturing and Applied Nano.
Impact Factor:
5.3 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Nanoimprint Lithography for Next-Generation Carbon Nanotube-Based Devices
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121011 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
This research reports the development of 3D carbon nanostructures that can provide unique capabilities for manufacturing carbon nanotube (CNT) electronic components, electrochemical probes, biosensors, and tissue scaffolds. The shaped CNT arrays were grown on patterned catalytic substrate by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method.
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This research reports the development of 3D carbon nanostructures that can provide unique capabilities for manufacturing carbon nanotube (CNT) electronic components, electrochemical probes, biosensors, and tissue scaffolds. The shaped CNT arrays were grown on patterned catalytic substrate by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. The new fabrication process for catalyst patterning based on combination of nanoimprint lithography (NIL), magnetron sputtering, and reactive etching techniques was studied. The optimal process parameters for each technique were evaluated. The catalyst was made by deposition of Fe and Co nanoparticles over an alumina support layer on a Si/SiO2 substrate. The metal particles were deposited using direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering technique, with a particle ranging from 6 nm to 12 nm and density from 70 to 1000 particles/micron. The Alumina layer was deposited by radio frequency (RF) and reactive pulsed DC sputtering, and the effect of sputtering parameters on surface roughness was studied. The pattern was developed by thermal NIL using Si master-molds with PMMA and NRX1025 polymers as thermal resists. Catalyst patterns of lines, dots, and holes ranging from 70 nm to 500 nm were produced and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Vertically aligned CNTs were successfully grown on patterned catalyst and their quality was evaluated by SEM and micro-Raman. The results confirm that the new fabrication process has the ability to control the size and shape of CNT arrays with superior quality.
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(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)
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Open AccessArticle
High-Order Harmonics Generation Using Spherical and Non-Spherical Nanoparticles
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Rashid A. Ganeev and Aigars Atvars
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121010 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
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The conversion efficiency of 800 nm, 65 fs radiation toward high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in laser-induced plasmas containing spherical and non-spherical nanoparticles (NPs) produced during the laser ablation of different metals in water using 1064 nm, 70 ps pulses was analyzed. Non-spherical NPs
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The conversion efficiency of 800 nm, 65 fs radiation toward high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in laser-induced plasmas containing spherical and non-spherical nanoparticles (NPs) produced during the laser ablation of different metals in water using 1064 nm, 70 ps pulses was analyzed. Non-spherical NPs of different forms (triangle, cubic, bowtie, rod, rectangular, ellipsoid, etc.) were synthesized during the aging of some spherical NPs (In, Al, and Cu) in water. These NPs were then dried on the glass substrates and ablated to produce plasmas comprising nanostructured species of different morphologies. It was shown that harmonic generation in all synthesized non-spherical NPs was less efficient by a factor of at least five than in the initial spherical NP. Meanwhile, the spherical NPs that maintained the morphology state during aging (Ni, Ag, Mn, and Au) showed almost similar HHG conversion efficiency compared to the fresh spherical NPs. In all cases, the HHG conversion efficiency using spherical and non-spherical nanoparticles was notably larger compared to the atomic and ionic single-particle plasmas of the same elemental composition. NP plasmas demonstrated featureless harmonic distributions, contrary to the indium and manganese atomic/ionic plasmas, when the resonance enhancement of harmonics was observed.
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Open AccessReview
Unveiling the Role of Sulfur Vacancies in Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Hybrids Photocatalysts
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Zhenxing Ren, Yang Li, Qiuyu Ren, Xiaojie Zhang, Xiaofan Fan, Xinjuan Liu, Jinchen Fan, Shuling Shen, Zhihong Tang and Yuhua Xue
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121009 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
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Photocatalysis represents a sustainable strategy for addressing energy shortages and global warming. The main challenges in the photocatalytic process include limited light absorption, rapid recombination of photo-induced carriers, and poor surface catalytic activity for reactant molecules. Defect engineering in photocatalysts has been proven
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Photocatalysis represents a sustainable strategy for addressing energy shortages and global warming. The main challenges in the photocatalytic process include limited light absorption, rapid recombination of photo-induced carriers, and poor surface catalytic activity for reactant molecules. Defect engineering in photocatalysts has been proven to be an efficient approach for improving solar-to-chemical energy conversion. Sulfur vacancies can adjust the electron structure, act as electron reservoirs, and provide abundant adsorption and activate sites, leading to enhanced photocatalytic activity. In this work, we aim to elucidate the role of sulfur vacancies in photocatalytic reactions and provide valuable insights for engineering high-efficiency photocatalysts with abundant sulfur vacancies in the future. First, we delve into the fundamental understanding of photocatalysis. Subsequently, various strategies for fabricating sulfur vacancies in photocatalysts are summarized, along with the corresponding characterization techniques. More importantly, the enhanced photocatalytic mechanism, focusing on three key factors, including electron structure, charge transfer, and the surface catalytic reaction, is discussed in detail. Finally, the future opportunities and challenges in sulfur vacancy engineering for photocatalysis are identified.
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Open AccessArticle
Optimization of Electrospray Deposition Conditions of ZnO Thin Films for Ammonia Sensing
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Georgi Marinov, Gergana Alexieva, Katerina Lazarova, Rositsa Gergova, Petar Ivanov and Tsvetanka Babeva
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121008 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study focuses on the influence of electrospray deposition parameters on the morphology, topography, optical and sensing properties of ZnO films deposited on gold electrodes of quartz crystal resonators. The substrate temperature, precursor feed rate and emitter’s voltage were varied. Zinc acetate dehydrate
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This study focuses on the influence of electrospray deposition parameters on the morphology, topography, optical and sensing properties of ZnO films deposited on gold electrodes of quartz crystal resonators. The substrate temperature, precursor feed rate and emitter’s voltage were varied. Zinc acetate dehydrate dissolved in a mixture of deionized water, ethanol and acetic acid was used as a precursor. The surface morphology and average roughness of the films were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and 3D optical profilometry, respectively, while the optical properties were investigated by diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence measurements. The sensing response toward ammonia was tested and verified by the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) method. The studies demonstrated that electrospray deposition parameters strongly influence the surface morphology, roughness and gas sensing properties of the films. The deposition parameters were optimized in order for the highest sensitivity toward ammonia to be achieved. The successful implementation of the electrospray method as a simple, versatile and low-cost method for deposition of ammonia-sensitive and selective ZnO films used as a sensing medium in QCM sensors was demonstrated and discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoscale Material-Based Gas Sensors)
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Open AccessArticle
Antifungal Activity of ZnO Nanoparticles Synthesized from Eichhornia crassipes Extract for Construction Applications
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Rocío Vargas Hernández, Mayra A. Alvarez Lemus, Susana De la Rosa García, Rosendo López González, Patricia Quintana, David García Zaleta, Viridiana Velázquez Vázquez and Sergio Gómez Cornelio
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121007 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fungal growth on construction materials in tropical climates can degrade aesthetics and manifestations on modern and historical sick buildings, affecting the health of their inhabitants. This study synthesized ZnO nanoparticles with enhanced antifungal properties using a precipitation method. Different concentrations (25%, 50%, and
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Fungal growth on construction materials in tropical climates can degrade aesthetics and manifestations on modern and historical sick buildings, affecting the health of their inhabitants. This study synthesized ZnO nanoparticles with enhanced antifungal properties using a precipitation method. Different concentrations (25%, 50%, and 100%) of Eichhornia crassipes aqueous extract were used with Zn(NO3)2·6H2O as the precursor to evaluate their spectroscopic, morphological, textural, and antifungal properties. X-ray diffraction confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite phase of ZnO with crystallite sizes up to 20 nm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified absorption bands at 426, 503, and 567 cm−1 for ZnO-100, ZnO-50, and ZnO-25, respectively. Nitrogen physisorption indicated a type II isotherm with macropores and a fractal dimension coefficient near 2 across all concentrations. Polydispersity index analysis showed that ZnO-50 had a higher PDI, indicating a broader size distribution, while ZnO-25 and ZnO-100 exhibited lower PDI values, reflecting uniform and monodisperse particle sizes. FESEM observations revealed semi-spherical ZnO morphologies prone to agglomeration, particularly in ZnO-25. Antifungal tests highlighted ZnO-25 as the most effective, especially against Phoma sp. with an MFC/MIC ratio of 78 µg/mL. Poisoned plate assays demonstrated over 50% inhibition at 312 µg/mL for all tested fungi, outperforming commercial antifungals. The results indicate that ZnO NPs synthesized using E. crassipes extract effectively inhibit fungal growth on construction materials. This procedure offers a practical approach to improving the durability of building aesthetics and may contribute to reducing the health risks associated with exposure to fungal compounds.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for a Cleaner Environment and Environmental Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Accurate Evaluation of Electro-Thermal Performance in Silicon Nanosheet Field-Effect Transistors with Schemes for Controlling Parasitic Bottom Transistors
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Jinsu Jeong, Sanguk Lee and Rock-Hyun Baek
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121006 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
The electro-thermal performance of silicon nanosheet field-effect transistors (NSFETs) with various parasitic bottom transistor (trpbt)-controlling schemes is evaluated. Conventional punch-through stopper, trench inner-spacer (TIS), and bottom oxide (BOX) schemes were investigated from single-device to circuit-level evaluations to avoid overestimating heat’s
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The electro-thermal performance of silicon nanosheet field-effect transistors (NSFETs) with various parasitic bottom transistor (trpbt)-controlling schemes is evaluated. Conventional punch-through stopper, trench inner-spacer (TIS), and bottom oxide (BOX) schemes were investigated from single-device to circuit-level evaluations to avoid overestimating heat’s impact on performance. For single-device evaluations, the TIS scheme maintains the device temperature 59.6 and 50.4 K lower than the BOX scheme for n/pFETs, respectively, due to the low thermal conductivity of BOX. However, when the over-etched S/D recess depth (TSD) exceeds 2 nm in the TIS scheme, the RC delay becomes larger than that of the BOX scheme due to increased gate capacitance (Cgg) as the TSD increases. A higher TIS height prevents the Cgg increase and exhibits the best electro-thermal performance at single-device operation. Circuit-level evaluations are conducted with ring oscillators using 3D mixed-mode simulation. Although TIS and BOX schemes have similar oscillation frequencies, the TIS scheme has a slightly lower device temperature. This thermal superiority of the TIS scheme becomes more pronounced as the load capacitance (CL) increases. As CL increases from 1 to 10 fF, the temperature difference between TIS and BOX schemes widens from 1.5 to 4.8 K. Therefore, the TIS scheme is most suitable for controlling trpbt and improving electro-thermal performance in sub-3 nm node NSFETs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Electronic Components and Devices)
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Open AccessArticle
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Benzaldehyde on Gold Nanoparticles Supported on Titanium Dioxide
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Li Gong, Yu Jin, Shiling Zhao, Kaizhi Wang, Paulina R. Martínez-Alanis and Andreu Cabot
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121005 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
The electrooxidation of organic compounds offers a promising strategy for producing value-added chemicals through environmentally sustainable processes. A key challenge in this field is the development of electrocatalysts that are both effective and durable. In this study, we grow gold nanoparticles (Au NPs)
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The electrooxidation of organic compounds offers a promising strategy for producing value-added chemicals through environmentally sustainable processes. A key challenge in this field is the development of electrocatalysts that are both effective and durable. In this study, we grow gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) on the surface of various phases of titanium dioxide (TiO2) as highly effective electrooxidation catalysts. Subsequently, the samples are tested for the oxidation of benzaldehyde (BZH) to benzoic acid (BZA) coupled with a hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). We observe the support containing a combination of rutile and anatase phases to provide the highest activity. The excellent electrooxidation performance of this Au-TiO2 sample is correlated with its mixed-phase composition, large surface area, high oxygen vacancy content, and the presence of Lewis acid active sites on its surface. This catalyst demonstrates an overpotential of 0.467 V at 10 mA cm−2 in a 1 M KOH solution containing 20 mM BZH, and 0.387 V in 100 mM BZH, well below the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) overpotential. The electrooxidation of BZH not only serves as OER alternative in applications such as electrochemical hydrogen evolution, enhancing energy efficiency, but simultaneously allows for the generation of high-value byproducts such as BZA.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanostructures for Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage)
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Open AccessReview
Advance of Microemulsion and Application for Enhanced Oil Recovery
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Kaiqi Leng, Baoshan Guan, Weidong Liu, Chen Jiang, Sunan Cong, Baoliang Peng and Yufan Tao
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121004 - 10 Jun 2024
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With the ongoing advancement in oil exploration, microemulsion, as an innovative oil displacement method, has garnered considerable attention owing to its exceptional physicochemical properties in enhancing crude oil recovery. As such, this study initially delineates the fundamental concepts, classifications, formation mechanisms, advantages, and
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With the ongoing advancement in oil exploration, microemulsion, as an innovative oil displacement method, has garnered considerable attention owing to its exceptional physicochemical properties in enhancing crude oil recovery. As such, this study initially delineates the fundamental concepts, classifications, formation mechanisms, advantages, and preparation methodologies of microemulsions. Subsequently, it introduces the selection criteria for microemulsion components, followed by an elucidation of the characterization methods for microemulsions based on these criteria. Furthermore, it examines the factors influencing the efficacy of microemulsions in enhancing oil recovery through two distinct methods, along with the effects of various formulation microemulsions under laboratory and oilfield conditions. Additionally, it outlines prospects, challenges, and future development trends pertaining to microemulsions.
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Open AccessReview
Preparation of Fibrous Three-Dimensional Porous Materials and Their Research Progress in the Field of Stealth Protection
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Peng Zhang, Shuang Zhao, Guobing Chen, Kunfeng Li, Jun Chen, Zhen Zhang, Feiyue Yang and Zichun Yang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121003 - 9 Jun 2024
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Intelligent and diversified development of modern detection technology greatly affects the battlefield survivability of military targets, especially infrared, acoustic wave, and radar detection expose targets by capturing their unavoidable infrared radiation, acoustic wave, and electromagnetic wave information, greatly affecting their battlefield survival and
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Intelligent and diversified development of modern detection technology greatly affects the battlefield survivability of military targets, especially infrared, acoustic wave, and radar detection expose targets by capturing their unavoidable infrared radiation, acoustic wave, and electromagnetic wave information, greatly affecting their battlefield survival and penetration capabilities. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop stealth-protective materials that can suppress infrared radiation, reduce acoustic characteristics, and weaken electromagnetic signals. Fibrous three-dimensional porous materials, with their high porosity, excellent structural adjustability, and superior mechanical properties, possess strong potential for development in the field of stealth protection. This article introduced and reviewed the characteristics and development process of fibrous three-dimensional porous materials at both the micrometer and nanometer scales. Then, the process and characteristics of preparing fibrous three-dimensional porous materials through vacuum forming, gel solidification, freeze-casting, and impregnation stacking methods were analyzed and discussed. Meanwhile, their current application status in infrared, acoustic wave, and radar stealth fields was summarized and their existing problems and development trends in these areas from the perspectives of preparation processes and applicability were analyzed. Finally, several prospects for the current challenges faced by fibrous three-dimensional porous materials were proposed as follows: functionally modifying fibers to enhance their applicability through self-cross-linking; establishing theoretical models for the transmission of thermal energy, acoustic waves, and electromagnetic waves within fibrous porous materials; constructing fibrous porous materials resistant to impact, shear, and fracture to meet the needs of practical applications; developing multifunctional stealth fibrous porous materials to confer full-spectrum broadband stealth capability; and exploring the relationship between material size and mechanical properties as a basis for preparing large-scale samples that meet the application’s requirement. This review is very timely and aims to focus researchers’ attention on the importance and research progress of fibrous porous materials in the field of stealth protection, so as to solve the problems and challenges of fibrous porous materials in the field of stealth protection and to promote the further innovation of fibrous porous materials in terms of structure and function.
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Open AccessArticle
The Effect of Electric Aging on Vinylidene Fluoride Copolymers for Ferroelectric Memory
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Valentin V. Kochervinskii, Evgeniya L. Buryanskaya, Aleksey S. Osipkov, Mstislav O. Makeev, Dmitry A. Kiselev, Margarita A. Gradova, Oleg V. Gradov, Boris V. Lokshin and Alexandr A. Korlyukov
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121002 - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Copolymers based on vinylidene fluoride are potential materials for ferroelectric memory elements. The trend in studies showing that a decrease in the degree of crystallinity can lead to an unexpected increase in the electric breakdown field is noted. An analysis of the literature
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Copolymers based on vinylidene fluoride are potential materials for ferroelectric memory elements. The trend in studies showing that a decrease in the degree of crystallinity can lead to an unexpected increase in the electric breakdown field is noted. An analysis of the literature data reveals that in fluorine-containing ferroelectric polymers, when using a bipolar triangular field, the hysteresis loop has an unclosed shape, with each subsequent loop being accompanied by a decrease in the dielectric response. In this work, the effect of the structure of self-polarized films of copolymers of vinylidene fluoride with tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene on breakdown processes was studied. The structure of the polymer films was monitored using infrared spectroscopy (IR) and X-ray diffraction. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) was applied to characterize the local electrical properties of the polymers. For the films of the first copolymer, which crystallize in the polar β-phase, asymmetry in the dielectric response was observed at fields greater than the coercive field. For the films of the copolymers of vinylidene fluoride with hexafluoropropylene, which crystallize predominantly in the nonpolar α-phase, polarization switching processes have also been observed, but at lower electric fields. The noted phenomena will help to identify the influence of the structure of ferroelectric polymers on their electrical properties.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Applications of Nanomaterials in Sensors and Actuators)
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Open AccessArticle
Multi-Endpoint Toxicological Assessment of Chrysin Loaded Oil-in-Water Emulsion System in Different Biological Models
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Pornsiri Pitchakarn, Pisamai Ting, Pensiri Buacheen, Jirarat Karinchai, Woorawee Inthachat, Boonrat Chantong, Uthaiwan Suttisansanee, Onanong Nuchuchua and Piya Temviriyanukul
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121001 - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Chrysin is hypothesized to possess the ability to prevent different illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Nonetheless, chrysin has a low solubility under physiological conditions, resulting in limited bioavailability. In a previous study, we utilized an oil-in-water emulsion system (chrysin-ES or
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Chrysin is hypothesized to possess the ability to prevent different illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Nonetheless, chrysin has a low solubility under physiological conditions, resulting in limited bioavailability. In a previous study, we utilized an oil-in-water emulsion system (chrysin-ES or chrysin-NE) to encapsulate chrysin, thereby increasing its bioaccessibility and preserving its antioxidant and anti-Alzheimer’s properties. To promote the chrysin-ES as a supplementary and functional food, it was obligatory to carry out a safety assessment. Cytotoxicity testing showed that chrysin-ES was harmless, with no killing effect on 3T3-L1 (adipocytes), RAW 264.7 (macrophages), HEK293 (kidney cells), and LX-2 (hepatic stellate cells). The acute toxicity evaluation demonstrated that the 50% lethal dose (LD50) for chrysin-ES was greater than 2000 mg/kg BW. Genotoxicity assessments found that chrysin-ES did not induce DNA mutations in vitro or in vivo. Furthermore, chrysin and chrysin-ES exhibited anti-mutagenic properties against PhIP-induced and IQ-induced mutagenesis in the Ames test, while they inhibited urethane-, ethyl methanesulfonate-, mitomycin C-, and N-nitrosomethylurea-mediated mutations in Drosophila. The present study illustrates the safety and anti-genotoxicity properties of chrysin-ES, allowing for the further development of chrysin-based food supplements and nutraceuticals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Toxicity of Nanoparticles in Organisms (2nd Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
Flexible Mechanical Sensors Fabricated with Graphene Oxide-Coated Commercial Silk
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Hyun-Seok Jang, Ki Hoon Lee and Byung Hoon Kim
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14121000 - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Many studies on flexible strain and pressure sensors have been reported due to growing interest in wearable devices for healthcare purposes. Here, we present flexible pressure and strain (motion) sensors prepared with only graphene oxide (GO) and commercial silk fabrics and yarns. The
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Many studies on flexible strain and pressure sensors have been reported due to growing interest in wearable devices for healthcare purposes. Here, we present flexible pressure and strain (motion) sensors prepared with only graphene oxide (GO) and commercial silk fabrics and yarns. The pressure sensors were fabricated by simply dipping the silk fabric into GO solution followed by applying a thermal treatment at 400 °C to obtain reduced GO (rGO). The pressure sensors were made from rGO-coated fabrics, which were stacked in three, five, and seven layers. A super-sensitivity of 2.58 × 103 kPa−1 at low pressure was observed in the seven-layer pressure sensor. The strain sensors were obtained from rGO-coated twisted silk yarns whose gauge factor was 0.307. Although this value is small or comparable to the values for other sensors, it is appropriate for motion sensing. The results of this study show a cost-effective and simple method for the fabrication of pressure and motion sensors with commercial silk and GO.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanostructures as Promising Future Materials II)
Open AccessArticle
Biomass-Derived Carbon Utilization for Electrochemical Energy Enhancement in Lithium-Ion Batteries
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Byeong Jin Jeong, Feng Jiang, Jae Yoon Sung, Soon Phil Jung, Dae Won Oh, R. M. Gnanamuthu, Kumaran Vediappan and Chang Woo Lee
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120999 - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cathodes made of LiFePO4 (LFP) offer numerous benefits including being non-toxic, eco-friendly, and affordable. The distinctive olivine structure of LFP cathodes contributes to their electrochemical stability. Nonetheless, this structure is also the cause of their low ionic and electronic conductivity. To enhance
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Cathodes made of LiFePO4 (LFP) offer numerous benefits including being non-toxic, eco-friendly, and affordable. The distinctive olivine structure of LFP cathodes contributes to their electrochemical stability. Nonetheless, this structure is also the cause of their low ionic and electronic conductivity. To enhance these limitations, an uncomplicated approach has been effectively employed. A straightforward solid-state synthesis technique is used to apply a coating of biomass from potato peels to the LFP cathode, boosting its electrochemical capabilities. Potato peels contain pyridinic and pyrrolic nitrogen, which are conducive to ionic and electronic movement and facilitate pathways for lithium-ion and electron transfer, thus elevating electrochemical performance. When coated with nitrogen-doped carbon derived from potato peel biomass (PPNC@LFP), the LFP cathode demonstrates an improved discharge capacity of 150.39 mAh g−1 at a 0.1 C-rate and 112.83 mAh g−1 at a 1.0 C-rate, in contrast to the uncoated LFP which shows capacities of 141.34 mAh g−1 and 97.72 mAh g−1 at the same rates, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Environmental Catalysis)
Open AccessArticle
Fabrication of Large-Area Nanostructures Using Cross-Nanoimprint Strategy
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Yujie Zhan, Liangui Deng, Wei Dai, Yongxue Qiu, Shicheng Sun, Dizhi Sun, Bowen Hu and Jianguo Guan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120998 - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Nanostructures with sufficiently large areas are necessary for the development of practical devices. Current efforts to fabricate large-area nanostructures using step-and-repeat nanoimprint lithography, however, result in either wide seams or low efficiency due to ultraviolet light leakage and the overflow of imprint resin.
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Nanostructures with sufficiently large areas are necessary for the development of practical devices. Current efforts to fabricate large-area nanostructures using step-and-repeat nanoimprint lithography, however, result in either wide seams or low efficiency due to ultraviolet light leakage and the overflow of imprint resin. In this study, we propose an efficient method for large-area nanostructure fabrication using step-and-repeat nanoimprint lithography with a composite mold. The composite mold consists of a quartz support layer, a soft polydimethylsiloxane buffer layer, and multiple intermediate polymer stamps arranged in a cross pattern. The distance between the adjacent stamp pattern areas is equal to the width of the pattern area. This design combines the high imprinting precision of hard molds with the uniform large-area imprinting offered by soft molds. In this experiment, we utilized a composite mold consisting of three sub-molds combined with a cross-nanoimprint strategy to create large-area nanostructures measuring 5 mm × 30 mm on a silicon substrate, with the minimum linewidth of the structure being 100 nm. Compared with traditional step-and-flash nanoimprint lithography, the present method enhances manufacturing efficiency and generates large-area patterns with seam errors only at the micron level. This research could help advance micro–nano optics, flexible electronics, optical communication, and biomedicine studies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Scalable Fabrication of Nanostructured Materials and Devices, Volume II)
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Open AccessArticle
Sensing Based on Plasmon-Induced Transparency in H-Shaped Graphene-Based Metamaterials
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Xiongxiong Wu, Jiani Chen, Shaolong Wang, Yang Ren, Yanning Yang and Zhihui He
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120997 - 8 Jun 2024
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Graphene can support surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) in the terahertz band, and graphene SPP sensors are widely used in the field of terahertz micro- and nano-optical devices. In this paper, we propose an H-shaped graphene metasurface and investigate the plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) phenomenon
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Graphene can support surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) in the terahertz band, and graphene SPP sensors are widely used in the field of terahertz micro- and nano-optical devices. In this paper, we propose an H-shaped graphene metasurface and investigate the plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) phenomenon in the proposed structure using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. Our results show that the Fermi energy levels, as well as certain shape parameters, can effectively modulate the PIT phenomenon in the proposed structure. Interestingly, changing some of these shape parameters can excite two dips into three. In terms of sensing performance, the maximum values of sensitivity and figure of merit (FOM) are 1.4028 THz/RIU and 17.97, respectively. These results offer valuable guidance for the use of terahertz optical graphene SPP sensors.
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Open AccessReview
Systematic Review of Solubility, Thickening Properties and Mechanisms of Thickener for Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
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Xiaohui Wang, Qihong Zhang, Shiwei Liang and Songqing Zhao
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120996 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) has extremely important applications in the extraction of unconventional oil and gas, especially in fracturing and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies. It can not only relieve water resource wastage and environmental pollution caused by traditional mining methods,
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Supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) has extremely important applications in the extraction of unconventional oil and gas, especially in fracturing and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies. It can not only relieve water resource wastage and environmental pollution caused by traditional mining methods, but also effectively store CO2 and mitigate the greenhouse effect. However, the low viscosity nature of supercritical CO2 gives rise to challenges such as viscosity fingering, limited sand–carrying capacity, high filtration loss, low oil and gas recovery efficiency, and potential rock adsorption. To overcome these challenges, low–rock–adsorption thickeners are required to enhance the viscosity of supercritical CO2. Through research into the literature, this article reviews the solubility and thickening characteristics of four types of polymer thickeners, namely surfactants, hydrocarbons, fluorinated polymers, and silicone polymers in supercritical CO2. The thickening mechanisms of polymer thickeners were also analyzed, including intermolecular interactions, LA–LB interactions, hydrogen bonding, and functionalized polymers, and so on.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon Capture Science & Technology (CCST))
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Calcination Temperature on the Microstructure, Composition and Properties of Agglomerated Nanometer CeO2-Y2O3-ZrO2 Powders for Plasma Spray–Physical Vapor Deposition (PS-PVD) and Coatings Thereof
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Zhenning Hou, Wenchao Yang, Yongzhong Zhan, Xiaofeng Zhang and Jingqin Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120995 - 7 Jun 2024
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Self-made agglomerated nanometer CeO2-Y2O3-ZrO2 (CYSZ) powders for plasma spray–physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) were prepared by spray-drying, followed by calcination treatment at four different temperatures (600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C, 900 °C). The physical properties, microstructure,
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Self-made agglomerated nanometer CeO2-Y2O3-ZrO2 (CYSZ) powders for plasma spray–physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) were prepared by spray-drying, followed by calcination treatment at four different temperatures (600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C, 900 °C). The physical properties, microstructure, and phase composition of the calcined powders were investigated using a laser particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that compared to the agglomerated powders obtained through spray-drying, the particle size of the agglomerated powders changed with increasing calcination temperature, accompanied by an increase in the self-bonding force of the agglomerated powder particles. The proper calcination temperature improved the sprayability of the powders. Additionally, with the increase in the calcination temperature, a transformation from the m-phase to the t-phase occurred in the powder, with Ce4+ partially entering the Zr lattice to form the t-Zr0.84Ce0.16O2 phase, which facilitated the suppression of the m-phase and improved the high-temperature phase stability. It was also found that the PS-PVD coatings prepared using the aforementioned powders exhibited coarser columnar structures with increasing powder calcination temperature.
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Open AccessArticle
One-Pot Synthesis of Pd Nanoparticles Supported on Carbide-Derived Carbon for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
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Madis Lüsi, Heiki Erikson, Maike Käärik, Helle-Mai Piirsoo, Jaan Aruväli, Arvo Kikas, Vambola Kisand, Jaan Leis, Kaupo Kukli and Kaido Tammeveski
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120994 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
We explored two methods for synthesizing Pd nanoparticles using three different carbide-derived carbon (CDC) support materials, one of which was nitrogen-doped. These materials were studied for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in 0.1 M KOH solution, and the resulting CDC/Pd catalysts were characterized using
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We explored two methods for synthesizing Pd nanoparticles using three different carbide-derived carbon (CDC) support materials, one of which was nitrogen-doped. These materials were studied for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in 0.1 M KOH solution, and the resulting CDC/Pd catalysts were characterized using TEM, XRD, and XPS. The citrate method and the polyol method using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a capping agent were employed to elucidate the impact of the support material on the final catalyst. The N-doping of the CDC material resulted in smaller Pd nanoparticles, but only in the case of the citrate method. This suggests that the influence of support is weaker when using the polyol method. The citrate method with CDC1, which is predominantly microporous, led to a higher degree of agglomeration and formation of larger particles in comparison to supports, which possessed a higher degree of mesoporosity. We achieved smaller Pd particle sizes using citrate and NaBH4 compared to the ethylene glycol PVP method. Pd deposited on CDC2 and CDC3 supports showed similar specific activity (SA), suggesting that the N-doping did not significantly influence the ORR process. The highest SA value was observed for CDC1/Pd_Cit, which could be attributed to the formation of larger Pd particles and agglomerates.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Catalysis for Environmental and Energy Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
The Modulation of Compositional Heterogeneity for Controlling Shear Banding in Co-P Metallic Nanoglasses
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Tian Li, Nana Li, Tianlai Yu and Guangping Zheng
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120993 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Shear banding is much dependent on the glass–glass interfaces (GGIs) in metallic nanoglasses (NGs). Nevertheless, the current understanding of the glass phase of GGIs is not well established for controlling the shear banding in NGs. In this study, Co-P NGs are investigated by
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Shear banding is much dependent on the glass–glass interfaces (GGIs) in metallic nanoglasses (NGs). Nevertheless, the current understanding of the glass phase of GGIs is not well established for controlling the shear banding in NGs. In this study, Co-P NGs are investigated by molecular dynamics simulations to reveal the phenomenon of elemental segregation in the GGI regions where the content of Co is dominant. Specifically, Co segregation results in the formation of GGIs, whose atomic structures are comparatively less dense than those present in the interiors of glassy grains. It is suggested that the Co segregation significantly reduces the shear resistance of GGIs. Thus, such compositional heterogeneity influences the mechanical properties of Co-P NGs. Particularly, shear banding is much altered through enhancing the Co segregation in the GGI regions, which leads to improvements in the ductility of Co-P NGs. This study advances knowledge of the formation of the GGI phase in NGs, which could enable GGI engineering in enhancing the mechanical properties of NGs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Mechanical Behaviour of Nanostructured Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Magnetic Barium Hexaferrite Nanoparticles with Tunable Coercivity as Potential Magnetic Heating Agents
by
Diana Zahn, Marco Diegel, Alina Valitova, Jan Dellith and Silvio Dutz
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(12), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14120992 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for extracorporeal heating applications results in higher field strength and, therefore, particles of higher coercivity can be used, compared to intracorporeal applications. In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of barium hexa-ferrite (BaFe12O19)
[...] Read more.
Using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for extracorporeal heating applications results in higher field strength and, therefore, particles of higher coercivity can be used, compared to intracorporeal applications. In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of barium hexa-ferrite (BaFe12O19) nanoparticles as potential particles for magnetic heating. Using a precipitation method followed by high-temperature calcination, we first studied the influence of varied synthesis parameters on the particles’ properties. Second, the iron-to-barium ratio (Fe/Ba = r) was varied between 2 and 12. Vibrating sample magnetometry, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used for characterization. A considerable influence of the calcination temperature (Tcal) was found on the resulting magnetic properties, with a decrease in coercivity (HC) from values above 370 kA/m for Tcal = 800–1000 °C to HC = 45–70 kA/m for Tcal = 1200 °C. We attribute this drop in HC mainly to the formation of entirely multi-domain particles at high Tcal. For the varying Fe/Ba ratios, increasing amounts of BaFe2O4 as an additional phase were detected by XRD in the small r (barium surplus) samples, lowering the particles’ magnetization. A decrease in HC was found in the increased r samples. Crystal size ranged from 47 nm to 240 nm and large agglomerates were seen in SEM images. The reported particles, due to their controllable coercivity, can be a candidate for extracorporeal heating applications in the biomedical or biotechnological field.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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