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
Effects of Composition and Polymerization Conditions on the Electro-Optic Performance of Liquid Crystal–Polymer Composites Doped with Ferroelectric Nanoparticles
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110961 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The presence of a polymer network and/or the addition of ferroelectric nanoparticles to a nematic liquid crystal are found to lower transition temperatures and birefringence, which indicates reduced orientational order. In addition, the electro-optic switching voltage is considerably increased when a polymer network
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The presence of a polymer network and/or the addition of ferroelectric nanoparticles to a nematic liquid crystal are found to lower transition temperatures and birefringence, which indicates reduced orientational order. In addition, the electro-optic switching voltage is considerably increased when a polymer network is formed by in situ polymerization in the nematic state. However, the resulting polymer network liquid crystal switches at similar voltages as the neat liquid crystal when polymerization is performed at an elevated temperature in the isotropic state. When nanoparticle dispersions are polymerized at an applied DC voltage, the transition temperatures and switching voltages are reduced, yet they are larger than those observed for polymer network liquid crystals without nanoparticles polymerized in the isotropic phase.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoelectronics: Materials, Devices and Applications)
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Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Infrared Analysis of Double Perovskites Pr2NiMnO6, Gd2NiMnO6, and Er2NiMnO6 Functional Nano-Ceramics
by
Mebark Elhamel, Zoulikha Hebboul, Djamal Benbertal, Pablo Botella and Daniel Errandonea
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110960 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
We synthesized Pr2NiMnO6, Gd2NiMnO6, and Er2NiMnO6 double perovskites in a nano-ceramic form by a sol–gel method. By means of room-temperature X-ray powder diffraction measurements, we determined the crystal structure of the three
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We synthesized Pr2NiMnO6, Gd2NiMnO6, and Er2NiMnO6 double perovskites in a nano-ceramic form by a sol–gel method. By means of room-temperature X-ray powder diffraction measurements, we determined the crystal structure of the three compounds, which is monoclinic, corresponding to a double perovskite structure, described by space group P21/n structure. From the determined structures, the bulk moduli were estimated to be 173–179 GPa. The average size particle of nanoparticles was determined from X-ray diffraction by the Langford method plot and by the Scherrer formula. The morphology and homogeneity of nanoparticles were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. We found that they form compact agglomerations of approximately 200 nm in diameter. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements were performed, determining the absorption spectrum. The assignment of the measured infrared absorption bands is discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of MnO2 Nanoparticles Stabilized with Cocamidopropyl Betaine on Germination and Development of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Seedlings
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Andrey Nagdalian, Andrey Blinov, Alexey Gvozdenko, Alexey Golik, Zafar Rekhman, Igor Rzhepakovsky, Roman Kolesnikov, Svetlana Avanesyan, Anastasiya Blinova, Maxim Pirogov, Pavel Leontev, Alina Askerova, Evgeniy Tsykin and Mohammad Ali Shariati
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110959 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the effect of cocamidopropyl betaine-stabilized MnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on the germination and development of pea seedlings. The synthesized NPs manifested as aggregates ranging from 50–600 nm, comprising spherical particles sized between 19 to 50
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This study aimed to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the effect of cocamidopropyl betaine-stabilized MnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on the germination and development of pea seedlings. The synthesized NPs manifested as aggregates ranging from 50–600 nm, comprising spherical particles sized between 19 to 50 nm. These particles exhibited partial crystallization, indicated by peaks at 2θ = 25.37, 37.62, 41.18, 49.41, 61.45, and 65.79°, characteristic of MnO2 with a tetragonal crystal lattice with a I4/m spatial group. Quantum chemical modelling showed that the stabilization process of MnO2 NPs with cocamidopropyl betaine is energetically advantageous (∆E > 1299.000 kcal/mol) and chemically stable, as confirmed by the positive chemical hardness values (0.023 ≤ η ≤ 0.053 eV). It was revealed that the interaction between the MnO2 molecule and cocamidopropyl betaine, facilitated by a secondary amino group (NH), is the most probable scenario. This ascertain is supported by the values of the difference in total energy (∆E = 1299.519 kcal/mol) and chemical hardness (η = 0.053 eV). These findings were further confirmed using FTIR spectroscopy. The effect of MnO2 NPs at various concentrations on the germination of pea seeds was found to be nonlinear and ambiguous. The investigation revealed that MnO2 NPs at a concentration of 0.1 mg/L resulted in the highest germination energy (91.25%), germinability (95.60%), and lengths of roots and seedlings among all experimental samples. However, an increase in the concentration of preparation led to a slight growth suppression (1–10 mg/L) and the pronounced inhibition of seedling and root development (100 mg/L). The analysis of antioxidant indicators and phytochemicals in pea seedlings indicated that only 100 mg/L MnO2 NPs have a negative effect on the content of soluble sugars, chlorophyll a/b, carotenoids, and phenols. Conversely, lower concentrations showed a stimulating effect on photosynthesis indicators. Nevertheless, MnO2 NPs at all concentrations generally decreased the antioxidant potential of pea seedlings, except for the ABTS parameter. Pea seedlings showed a notable capacity to absorb Mn, reaching levels of 586.5 μg/L at 10 mg/L and 892.6 μg/L at 100 mg/L MnO2 NPs, surpassing the toxic level for peas according to scientific literature. However, the most important result was the observed growth-stimulating activity at 0.1 mg/L MnO2 NPs stabilized with cocamidopropyl betaine, suggesting a promising avenue for further research.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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Open AccessArticle
Electrochemical Determination of Uric Acid Using a Nanocomposite Electrode with Molybdenum Disulfide/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (MoS2@MWCNT)
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Johisner Penagos-Llanos, Rodrigo Segura, Amaya Paz de la Vega, Bryan Pichun, Fabiana Liendo, Fernando Riesco and Edgar Nagles
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110958 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents an application for a molybdenum disulfide nanomaterial with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MoS2@MWCNT/E) in a modified electrode substrate for the detection of uric acid (UA). The modified electrode generates a substantial three-fold increase in the anodic peak current for
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This paper presents an application for a molybdenum disulfide nanomaterial with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MoS2@MWCNT/E) in a modified electrode substrate for the detection of uric acid (UA). The modified electrode generates a substantial three-fold increase in the anodic peak current for UA compared to the unmodified MWCNT electrode (MWCNT/E). The MoS2@MWCNT/E surface was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The achieved detection limit stood at 0.04 µmol/L, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2.0% (n = 10). The method’s accuracy, assessed through relative error and percent recovery, was validated using a urine standard solution spiked with known quantities of UA.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Applications)
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Solvent-Induced Lignin Conformation Changes Affect Synthesis and Antibacterial Performance of Silver Nanoparticle
by
Dan Li and Liheng Chen
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110957 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates the development of novel, sustainable, and biocompatible antibacterial agents. This study addresses cytotoxicity and environmental concerns associated with traditional silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by exploring lignin, a readily available and renewable biopolymer, as a platform for AgNPs. We
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The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates the development of novel, sustainable, and biocompatible antibacterial agents. This study addresses cytotoxicity and environmental concerns associated with traditional silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by exploring lignin, a readily available and renewable biopolymer, as a platform for AgNPs. We present a novel one-pot synthesis method for lignin-based AgNPs (AgNPs@AL) nanocomposites, achieving rapid synthesis within 5 min. This method utilizes various organic solvents, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to a wide range of lignin-dissolving systems. Characterization reveals uniform AgNP size distribution and morphology influenced by the chosen solvent. This adaptability suggests the potential for incorporating lignin-loaded antibacterial drugs alongside AgNPs, enabling combined therapy in a single nanocomposite. Antibacterial assays demonstrate exceptional efficacy against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with gamma-valerolactone (GVL)-assisted synthesized AgNPs exhibiting the most potent effect. Mechanistic studies suggest a combination of factors contributes to the antibacterial activity, including direct membrane damage caused by AgNPs and sustained silver ion release, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. This work presents a straightforward, adaptable, and rapid approach for synthesizing biocompatible AgNPs@AL nanocomposites with outstanding antibacterial activity. These findings offer a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional antibiotics, contributing to the fight against antibiotic resistance while minimizing environmental impact.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass-Based Functional Nanomaterials: Synthesis and Application)
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SnS Quantum Dots Enhancing Carbon-Based Hole Transport Layer-Free Visible Photodetectors
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Rui Zhang, Jing Li, Sainan Liao, Shuxin Huang, Chenguang Shen, Mengwei Chen and Yingping Yang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110956 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
The recombination of charges and thermal excitation of carriers at the interface between methylammonium lead iodide perovskite (PVK) and the carbon electrode are crucial factors that affect the optoelectronic performance of carbon-based hole transport layer (HTL)-free perovskite photodetectors. In this work, a method
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The recombination of charges and thermal excitation of carriers at the interface between methylammonium lead iodide perovskite (PVK) and the carbon electrode are crucial factors that affect the optoelectronic performance of carbon-based hole transport layer (HTL)-free perovskite photodetectors. In this work, a method was employed to introduce SnS quantum dots (QDs) on the back surface of perovskite, which passivated the defect states on the back surface of perovskite and addressed the energy-level mismatch issue between perovskite and carbon electrode. Performance testing of the QDs and the photodetector revealed that SnS QDs possess energy-level structures that are well matched with perovskite and have high absorption coefficients. The incorporation of these QDs into the interface layer effectively suppresses the dark current of the photodetector and greatly enhances the utilization of incident light. The experimental results demonstrate that the introduction of SnS QDs reduces the dark current by an order of magnitude compared to the pristine device at 0 V bias and increases the responsivity by 10%. The optimized photodetector exhibits a wide spectral response range (350 nm to 750 nm), high responsivity (0.32 A/W at 500 nm), and high specific detectivity (>1 × 1012 Jones).
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(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Gold Nanoparticles on Mentha spicata L., Soil Microbiota, and Human Health Risks: Impact of Exposure Routes
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Alexandra Peshkova, Inga Zinicovscaia, Liliana Cepoi, Ludmila Rudi, Tatiana Chiriac, Nikita Yushin, Tran Tuan Anh, Ho Manh Dung and Serghei Corcimaru
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110955 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
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Nanoparticles, due to their extensive production and application, can have significant consequences for the environment, including soil and plant pollution. Therefore, it is very important to assess how nanoparticles will affect plants depending on the exposure pathways. The effect of gold nanoparticles in
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Nanoparticles, due to their extensive production and application, can have significant consequences for the environment, including soil and plant pollution. Therefore, it is very important to assess how nanoparticles will affect plants depending on the exposure pathways. The effect of gold nanoparticles in a concentration range of 1–100 mg/L on Mentha spicata L. during a 28-day experiment was investigated. Two routes of nanoparticles exposure were applied: root and foliar. Transmission electron microscopy was used to characterize nanoparticles and their effect on plant leaves’ ultrastructure. Gold content in soil and plant segments was determined using k0-neutron activation analysis. For root exposure, gold was mainly accumulated in soil (15.2–1769 mg/kg) followed by root systems (2.99–454 mg/kg). The maximum accumulation of gold in leaves (5.49 mg/kg) was attained at a nanoparticle concentration of 100 mg/L. Foliar exposure resulted in the maximum uptake of gold in leaves (552 mg/kg) and stems (18.4 mg/kg) at the highest applied nanoparticle concentration. The effect of nanoparticles on the Mentha spicata L. leaves’ biochemical composition was assessed. Nanoparticles affected the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids and led to an increase in antioxidant activity. Root exposure to gold nanoparticles resulted in an increase in the number of starch grains in chloroplasts and also suppressed the activity of the soil microbiota. Gold extraction from mint leaves into herbal infusion varied from 2 to 90% depending on the concentration of nanoparticles in the solution and the exposure route. The health risk as a result of gold exposure via herbal tea intake was assessed through estimated daily intake. The hazard quotient values were found to be less than the cutoff, indicating that a cup of tea infusion should not cause a serious impact to human health.
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Er-Doped BiVO4/BiFeO3 Nanocomposites Synthesized via Sonochemical Process and Their Piezo-Photocatalytic Application
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Thanaphon Kansaard, Maneerat Songpanit, Russameeruk Noonuruk, Chakkaphan Wattanawikkam, Wanichaya Mekprasart, Kanokthip Boonyarattanakalin, Chalicheemalapalli Kulala Jayasankar and Wisanu Pecharapa
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110954 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
In this work, Er-doped BiVO4/BiFeO3 composites are prepared using the sonochemical process with a difference of rare earth loading compositions. The crystallinity and chemical and morphological structure of as-synthesized samples were investigated via X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, and electron microscopy,
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In this work, Er-doped BiVO4/BiFeO3 composites are prepared using the sonochemical process with a difference of rare earth loading compositions. The crystallinity and chemical and morphological structure of as-synthesized samples were investigated via X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, and electron microscopy, respectively. The diffuse reflectance technique was used to extract the optical property and calculate the optical band gap of the composite sample. The piezo-photocatalytic performance was evaluated according to the decomposition of a Rhodamine B organic compound. The decomposition of the organic compound was achieved under ultrasonic bath irradiation combined with light exposure. The Er-doped BiVO4/BiFeO3 composite heterojunction material exhibited significant enhancement of the piezo-photocatalytic activity under both ultrasonic and light irradiation due to the improvement in charge generation and separation. The result indicates that Er dopant strongly affects the phase transformation, change in morphology, and alternation in optical band gap of the BiVO4 matrix. The incorporation of BiFeO3 in the composite form with BiVO4 doped with 1%Er can improve the photocatalytic performance of BiVO4 via piezo-induced charge separation and charge recombination retardment.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Controllable Synthesis of Titanium Silicon Molecular Zeolite Nanosheet with Short b-Axis Thickness and Application in Oxidative Desulfurization
by
Tieqiang Ren, Yujia Wang, Lulu Wang, Lisheng Liang, Xianming Kong and Haiyan Wang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110953 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Titanium silicon molecular zeolite (TS-1) plays an important role in catalytic reactions due to its unique nanostructure. The straight channel on TS-1 was parallel to the orientation of the short b-axis and directly exposed to the aperture of the 10-member ring with a
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Titanium silicon molecular zeolite (TS-1) plays an important role in catalytic reactions due to its unique nanostructure. The straight channel on TS-1 was parallel to the orientation of the short b-axis and directly exposed to the aperture of the 10-member ring with a diameter of 0.54 nm×0.56 nm. This structure could effectively reduce the diffuse restriction of bulk organic compounds during the oxidative desulfurization process. As a kind of cationic polymer electrolyte, polydimethyldiallyl ammonium chloride (PDDA) contains continuous [C8H16N+Cl−] chain segments, in which the Cl− could function as an effective structure-directing agent in the synthesis of nanomaterials. The chain of PDDA could adequately interact with the [0 1 0] plane in the preparation process of zeolite, and then the TS-1 nanosheet with short b-axis thickness (6 nm) could be obtained. The pore structure of the TS-1 nanosheet is controlled by regulating the content of PDDA. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 physical adsorption analysis, infrared absorption spectrum and ultraviolet–visible spectrum were used to determine the TS-1. The thinner nanosheets exhibit excellent catalytic performance in oxidative desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT), in which the removal rate could remain at 100% after three recycles. Here, the TS-1 nanosheet with short b-axis thickness has a promising future in catalytic reactions.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Porous Materials for Energy and Environment Applications)
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Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan Nanofiber: Kinetic Studies and Enhancement of Insulin Delivery System
by
Sarah A. Fouad, Amel M. Ismail, M. Abdel Rafea, M. A. Abu Saied and Ali El-Dissouky
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110952 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Insulin-loaded nanofibers were prepared using chitosan as a natural polymer. The loaded insulin with polyethylene oxide was used for preparing monolayer batch S1. Nanofiber S1 was coated by seven layers of film on both sides to form batch S2 as a sandwich containing
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Insulin-loaded nanofibers were prepared using chitosan as a natural polymer. The loaded insulin with polyethylene oxide was used for preparing monolayer batch S1. Nanofiber S1 was coated by seven layers of film on both sides to form batch S2 as a sandwich containing Layer A (CS, PEG and PEO) and Layer B (PEG and PEO) using electrospinning apparatus. SEM, TEM and FT-IR techniques were used to confirm the drug loading within the composite nanofibers. The in vitro activity that provided a sustained and controlled release of the drug from the nanofiber batch was studied at different pH values spectrophotometrically using a dialysis method. In batches S1 and S2, the release of insulin from nanofiber proceeds via burst release necessary to produce the desired therapeutic activity, followed by slow step. The rate and the percentage release of insulin in batch S2 are found to be higher at all pH values.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nano Polymer Processing)
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Ag/MXene as Saturable Absorber for Tm:Ho Co-Doped Q-Switched Fiber Laser
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Xiaoli Zhao, Jingxuan Sun, Yachen Wang, Xiaogang Wang and Bo Fu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110951 (registering DOI) - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Q-switched fiber lasers have become reliable light sources for generating high-energy pulses, which can be passively modulated by saturable absorbers with excellent nonlinear optical properties. The composite combining Ag and MXene exhibits a broadband nonlinear response and high modulation depth, making it a
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Q-switched fiber lasers have become reliable light sources for generating high-energy pulses, which can be passively modulated by saturable absorbers with excellent nonlinear optical properties. The composite combining Ag and MXene exhibits a broadband nonlinear response and high modulation depth, making it a promising candidate for saturable absorbers in pulsed lasers. Herein, we demonstrate a Q-switched Tm:Ho co-doped fiber laser centered at 2 µm, where the Ag/MXene composite serves as a saturable absorber to generate pulses. The typical spectrum, pulse train, and radio frequency spectrum of Q-switched pulses were observed, in which the 60 dB signal-to-noise ratio was higher than that of 2 µm Q-switched fiber lasers based on other materials, demonstrating the stability of the output pulses. Additionally, the long-term stability of the laser was evaluated over 2 h, where the well-maintained central wavelength and output power also indicated the robustness of the Q-switched laser. Furthermore, the influence of the pump power on the parameters of Q-switched pulses was also investigated, which is conducive to control the output characteristics of lasers. Specifically, the pulse width of the Q-switched pulse decreased, while the repetition rate, output power, and single pulse energy all increased with the increase in pump power. These experimental results demonstrate the ability of Ag/MXene as a saturable absorber and show its potential for generating high-performance pulses in ultrafast lasers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanomaterials: Fabrications, Optical Properties, and Ultrafast Photonics)
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Greatly Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of Flexible Cu2−xS Composite Film on Nylon by Se Doping
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Xinru Zuo, Xiaowen Han, Zixing Wang, Ying Liu, Jiajia Li, Mingcheng Zhang, Changjun Huang and Kefeng Cai
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110950 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
In this work, flexible Cu2−xS films on nylon membranes are prepared by combining a simple hydrothermal synthesis and vacuum filtration followed by hot pressing. The films consist of Cu2S and Cu1.96S two phases with grain sizes from
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In this work, flexible Cu2−xS films on nylon membranes are prepared by combining a simple hydrothermal synthesis and vacuum filtration followed by hot pressing. The films consist of Cu2S and Cu1.96S two phases with grain sizes from nano to submicron. Doping Se on the S site not only increases the Cu1.96S content in the Cu2−xS to increase carrier concentration but also modifies electronic structure, thereby greatly improves the electrical properties of the Cu2−xS. Specifically, an optimal composite film with a nominal composition of Cu2−xS0.98Se0.02 exhibits a high power factor of ~150.1 μW m−1 K−2 at 300 K, which increases by ~138% compared to that of the pristine Cu2-xS film. Meanwhile, the composite film shows outstanding flexibility (~97.2% of the original electrical conductivity is maintained after 1500 bending cycles with a bending radius of 4 mm). A four-leg flexible thermoelectric (TE) generator assembled with the optimal film generates a maximum power of 329.6 nW (corresponding power density of 1.70 W m−2) at a temperature difference of 31.1 K. This work provides a simple route to the preparation of high TE performance Cu2-xS-based films.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study on the Thermoelectric Properties of Nanostructured Materials)
Open AccessArticle
The Incorporated Drug Affects the Properties of Hydrophilic Nanofibers
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Črt Dragar, Robert Roškar and Petra Kocbek
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110949 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Hydrophilic nanofibers offer promising potential for the delivery of drugs with diverse characteristics. Yet, the effects of different drugs incorporated into these nanofibers on their properties remain poorly understood. In this study, we systematically explored how model drugs, namely ibuprofen, carvedilol, paracetamol, and
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Hydrophilic nanofibers offer promising potential for the delivery of drugs with diverse characteristics. Yet, the effects of different drugs incorporated into these nanofibers on their properties remain poorly understood. In this study, we systematically explored how model drugs, namely ibuprofen, carvedilol, paracetamol, and metformin (hydrochloride), affect hydrophilic nanofibers composed of polyethylene oxide and poloxamer 188 in a 1:1 weight ratio. Our findings reveal that the drug affects the conductivity and viscosity of the polymer solution for electrospinning, leading to distinct changes in the morphology of electrospun products. Specifically, drugs with low solubility in ethanol, the chosen solvent for polymer solution preparation, led to the formation of continuous nanofibers with uniform diameters. Additionally, the lower solubility of metformin in ethanol resulted in particle appearance on the nanofiber surface. Furthermore, the incorporation of more hydrophilic drugs increased the surface hydrophilicity of nanofiber mats. However, variations in the physicochemical properties of the drugs did not affect the drug loading and drug entrapment efficiency. Our research also shows that drug properties do not notably affect the immediate release of drugs from nanofibers, highlighting the dominant role of the hydrophilic polymers used. This study emphasizes the importance of considering specific drug properties, such as solubility, hydrophilicity, and compatibility with the solvent used for electrospinning, when designing hydrophilic nanofibers for drug delivery. Such considerations are crucial for optimizing the properties of the drug delivery system, which is essential for achieving therapeutic efficacy and safety.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials and Textiles)
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Electrochemical Detection of Glyphosate in Surface Water Samples Based on Modified Screen-Printed Electrodes
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Elisabeta-Irina Geana, Corina Teodora Ciucure, Amalia Soare, Stanica Enache, Roxana Elena Ionete and Livia Alexandra Dinu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110948 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This study addresses the necessity to monitor the presence of glyphosate (Gly) in waters, highlighting the need for on-site detection of Gly by using electrochemical sensors in environmental and agricultural monitoring programs. Two approaches were employed: (1) modification with graphene decorated with gold
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This study addresses the necessity to monitor the presence of glyphosate (Gly) in waters, highlighting the need for on-site detection of Gly by using electrochemical sensors in environmental and agricultural monitoring programs. Two approaches were employed: (1) modification with graphene decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs-Gr) and dispersed in either dimethylformamide (DMF) or a solution containing Nafion and isopropanol (NAF), and (2) molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) based on polypyrrole (PPy) deposited on gold SPEs (AuSPE). Electrochemical characterization revealed that sensors made of AuNPs-Gr/SPCE exhibited enhanced conductivity, larger active area, and improved charge transfer kinetics compared to unmodified SPEs and SPEs modified with graphene alone. However, the indirect detection mechanism of Gly via complex formation with metallic cations in AuNPs-Gr-based sensors introduces complexities and compromises sensitivity and selectivity. In contrast, MIPPy/AuSPE sensors demonstrated superior performance, offering enhanced reliability and sensitivity for Gly analysis. The MIPPy/AuSPE sensor allowed the detection of Gly concentrations as low as 5 ng/L, with excellent selectivity and reproducibility. Moreover, testing in real surface water samples from the Olt River in Romania showed recovery rates ranging from 90% to 99%, highlighting the effectiveness of the detection method. Future perspectives include expanding the investigation to monitor Gly decomposition in aquatic environments over time, providing insights into the decomposition’s long-term effects on water quality and ecosystem health, and modifying regulatory measures and agricultural practices for mitigating its impact. This research contributes to the development of robust and reliable electrochemical sensors for on-site monitoring of Glyphosate in environmental and agricultural settings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for the Assay of Organic/Inorganic Water Pollutants)
Open AccessArticle
Interfacial Interaction in MeOx/MWNTs (Me–Cu, Ni) Nanostructures as Efficient Electrode Materials for High-Performance Supercapacitors
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Galina E. Yalovega, Maria Brzhezinskaya, Victor O. Dmitriev, Valentina A. Shmatko, Igor V. Ershov, Anna A. Ulyankina, Daria V. Chernysheva and Nina V. Smirnova
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110947 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, complex nanostructures based on carbon nanotubes and transition metal oxides are considered promising electrode materials for the fabrication of high-performance supercapacitors with a fast charge rate, high power density, and long cycle life. The crucial
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Due to their unique physical and chemical properties, complex nanostructures based on carbon nanotubes and transition metal oxides are considered promising electrode materials for the fabrication of high-performance supercapacitors with a fast charge rate, high power density, and long cycle life. The crucial role in determining their efficiency is played by the properties of the interface in such nanostructures, among them, the type of chemical bonds between their components. The complementary theoretical and experimental methods, including dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT-D3) within GGA-PBE approximation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, X-ray photoelectron, and X-ray absorption spectroscopies, were applied in the present work for the comprehensive investigation of surface morphology, structure, and electronic properties in CuOx/MWCNTs and NiOx/MWCNTs. As a result, the type of interfacial interaction and its correlation with electrochemical characteristics were determined. It was found that the presence of both Ni–O–C and Ni–C bonds can increase the contact between NiO and MWCNTs, and, through this, promote electron transfer between NiO and MWCNTs. For NiOx/MWCNTs, better electrochemical characteristics were observed than for CuOx/MWCNTs, in which the interfacial interaction is determined only by bonding through Cu–O–C bonds. The electrochemical properties of CuOx/MWCNTs and NiOx/MWCNTs were studied to demonstrate the effect of interfacial interaction on their efficiency as electrode materials for supercapacitor applications.
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(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)
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Nanoengineered Cobalt Electrocatalyst for Alkaline Oxygen Evolution Reaction
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Venkatachalam Rajagopal, Sunil Mehla, Lathe A. Jones and Suresh K. Bhargava
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110946 - 28 May 2024
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The alkaline oxygen evolution reaction (OER) remains a bottleneck in green hydrogen production owing to its slow reaction kinetics and low catalytic efficiencies of earth abundant electrocatalysts in the alkaline OER reaction. This study investigates the OER performance of hierarchically porous cobalt electrocatalysts
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The alkaline oxygen evolution reaction (OER) remains a bottleneck in green hydrogen production owing to its slow reaction kinetics and low catalytic efficiencies of earth abundant electrocatalysts in the alkaline OER reaction. This study investigates the OER performance of hierarchically porous cobalt electrocatalysts synthesized using the dynamic hydrogen bubble templating (DHBT) method. Characterization studies revealed that electrocatalysts synthesized under optimized conditions using the DHBT method consisted of cobalt nanosheets, and hierarchical porosity with macropores distributed in a honeycomb network and mesopores distributed between cobalt nanosheets. Moreover, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies revealed the presence of Co(OH)2 as the predominant surface cobalt species while Raman studies revealed the presence of the cubic Co3O4 phase in the synthesized electrocatalysts. The best performing electrocatalyst required only 360 mV of overpotential to initiate a current density of 10 mA cm−2, exhibited a Tafel slope of 37 mV dec−1, and stable OER activity over 24 h. The DHBT method offers a facile, low cost and rapid synthesis approach for preparation for highly efficient cobalt electrocatalysts.
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Open AccessArticle
Formation of Black Silicon in a Process of Plasma Etching with Passivation in a SF6/O2 Gas Mixture
by
Andrey Miakonkikh and Vitaly Kuzmenko
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110945 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This article discusses a method for forming black silicon using plasma etching at a sample temperature range from −20 °C to +20 °C in a mixture of oxygen and sulfur hexafluoride. The surface morphology of the resulting structures, the autocorrelation function of surface
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This article discusses a method for forming black silicon using plasma etching at a sample temperature range from −20 °C to +20 °C in a mixture of oxygen and sulfur hexafluoride. The surface morphology of the resulting structures, the autocorrelation function of surface features, and reflectivity were studied depending on the process parameters—the composition of the plasma mixture, temperature and other discharge parameters (radical concentrations). The relationship between these parameters and the concentrations of oxygen and fluorine radicals in plasma is shown. A novel approach has been studied to reduce the reflectance using conformal bilayer dielectric coatings deposited by atomic layer deposition. The reflectivity of the resulting black silicon was studied in a wide spectral range from 400 to 900 nm. As a result of the research, technologies for creating black silicon on silicon wafers with a diameter of 200 mm have been proposed, and the structure formation process takes no more than 5 min. The resulting structures are an example of the self-formation of nanostructures due to anisotropic etching in a gas discharge plasma. This material has high mechanical, chemical and thermal stability and can be used as an antireflective coating, in structures requiring a developed surface—photovoltaics, supercapacitors, catalysts, and antibacterial surfaces.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Nanostructures in Gas-Discharge Plasma)
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MOF-Enhanced Aluminosilicate Ceramic Membranes Using Non-Firing Processes for Pesticide Filtration and Phytochrome Removal
by
Liping Zhao, Jinyun Xu, Ming Li, Yanyan Ji, Yu Sun, Ziqi Zhang, Xudong Hu, Zhe Peng, Yicong Wang, Chunming Zheng and Xiaohong Sun
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110944 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Aluminosilicates, abundant and crucial in both natural environments and industry, often involve uncontrollable chemical components when derived from minerals, making further chemical purification and reaction more complicated. This study utilizes pure alumina and fumed silica powders as more controllable sources, enhancing aluminosilicate reactivity
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Aluminosilicates, abundant and crucial in both natural environments and industry, often involve uncontrollable chemical components when derived from minerals, making further chemical purification and reaction more complicated. This study utilizes pure alumina and fumed silica powders as more controllable sources, enhancing aluminosilicate reactivity through room temperature (non-firing) processing and providing a robust framework that resists mechanical stress and high temperature. By embedding iron-based metal–organic frameworks (Fe-MOF/non-firing aluminosilicate membranes) within the above matrix, these ceramic membranes not only preserve their mechanical robustness but also gain significant chemical functionality, enhancing their capacity to removing phytochromes from the vegetables. Sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate were selected as activators to successfully prepare high-strength, non-firing aluminosilicate membranes. These membranes demonstrated a flexural strength of 8.7 MPa under wet-culture conditions with a molar ratio of Al2O3:SiO2:NaOH:Na2SiO3 at 1:1:0.49:0.16. The chlorophyll adsorption of spinach conducted on these membranes showed a removal rate exceeding 90% at room temperature and pH = 9, highlighting its potential for the selective adsorption of chlorophyll. This study underscores the potential of MOF-enhanced aluminosilicate ceramic membranes in environmental applications, particularly for agricultural pollution control.
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(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)
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Facile Synthesis to Porous TiO2 Nanostructures at Low Temperature for Efficient Visible-Light Degradation of Tetracycline
by
Peng Lian, Aimiao Qin, Zhisen Liu, Hao Ma, Lei Liao, Kaiyou Zhang and Ning Li
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110943 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures was synthesized on a large scale by a facile one-step solvothermal method at a low temperature. A series of characterizations was performed and carried out on the as-prepared photocatalysts, which were applied to the
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In this study, nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures was synthesized on a large scale by a facile one-step solvothermal method at a low temperature. A series of characterizations was performed and carried out on the as-prepared photocatalysts, which were applied to the degradation of the antibiotic tetracycline (TC). The results demonstrated that nanoporous TiO2 obtained at a solvothermal temperature of 100 °C had a spherical morphology with high crystallinity and a relatively large specific surface area, composed of a large number of nanospheres. The nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures exhibited excellent photocatalytic degradation activity for TC under simulated sunlight. The degradation rate was close to 100% after 30 min of UV light irradiation, and reached 79% only after 60 min of visible light irradiation, which was much better than the photodegradation performance of commercial TiO2 (only 29%). Moreover, the possible intermediates formed during the photocatalytic degradation of TC were explored by the density functional theory calculations and HPLC-MS spectra. Furthermore, two possible degradation routes were proposed, which provided experimental and theoretical support for the photocatalytic degradation of TC. In this study, we provide a new approach for the hierarchical micro/nanostructure of nanoporous TiO2, which can be applied in industrial manufacturing fields.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Photocatalysis)
Open AccessReview
Laser-Scribed Graphene for Human Health Monitoring: From Biophysical Sensing to Biochemical Sensing
by
Yakang Li, Yaxin Li, Sirui Wu, Xuewen Wu and Jian Shu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110942 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Laser-scribed graphene (LSG), a classic three-dimensional porous carbon nanomaterial, is directly fabricated by laser irradiation of substrate materials. Benefiting from its excellent electrical and mechanical properties, along with flexible and simple preparation process, LSG has played a significant role in the field of
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Laser-scribed graphene (LSG), a classic three-dimensional porous carbon nanomaterial, is directly fabricated by laser irradiation of substrate materials. Benefiting from its excellent electrical and mechanical properties, along with flexible and simple preparation process, LSG has played a significant role in the field of flexible sensors. This review provides an overview of the critical factors in fabrication, and methods for enhancing the functionality of LSG. It also highlights progress and trends in LSG-based sensors for monitoring physiological indicators, with an emphasis on device fabrication, signal transduction, and sensing characteristics. Finally, we offer insights into the current challenges and future prospects of LSG-based sensors for health monitoring and disease diagnosis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and Graphene-Based Polymer Composites: From Preparation to Applications)
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