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Nanomaterials, Volume 16, Issue 1 (January-1 2026) – 77 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This work highlights the emerging role of nanodevice-based technologies as transformative tools for the detection and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics in complex environmental and biological matrices. By critically comparing nanosensors, nanopore systems, lab-on-a-chip platforms, and nanostructured capture materials with conventional analytical techniques, the work underscores their superior sensitivity, specificity, and potential for real-time, in situ analysis. The paper’s novelty lies in its integrated perspective, linking technological innovation with practical challenges, standardization needs, and regulatory implications, thereby providing a forward-looking framework for advancing MNP monitoring and risk assessment. View this paper
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11 pages, 2269 KB  
Article
Pt-Rare Earth Subnanometric Bimetallic Clusters Efficiently Catalyze the Reverse Water–Gas Reaction
by Zhaolei Liang, Chang Sun, Songhe Shen, Qingqing Li and Feng Luo
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010077 - 5 Jan 2026
Viewed by 742
Abstract
The reverse water–gas shift (RWGS) reaction serves as a highly flexible and critical pathway for converting CO2 into CO, with Pt-based catalysts having been widely investigated. Here, a series of platinum-rare earth (RE) subnanometric bimetallic clusters (SBCs) were successfully prepared on carbon [...] Read more.
The reverse water–gas shift (RWGS) reaction serves as a highly flexible and critical pathway for converting CO2 into CO, with Pt-based catalysts having been widely investigated. Here, a series of platinum-rare earth (RE) subnanometric bimetallic clusters (SBCs) were successfully prepared on carbon support by the potassium vapor reduction method. Their structure and electronic properties, along with catalytic performance, were systematically characterized and evaluated. The Pt-RE SBC catalysts exhibited excellent catalytic activity, maintaining CO selectivity above 95% at high CO2 conversion levels and demonstrating stable operation over 100 h at 600 °C. Furthermore, the influence of different supports (carbon black and CeO2) on the catalytic performance was compared. It was found that Pt-Sc SBCs supported on the carbon exhibited better dispersion, smaller particle size, and superior catalytic performance relative to the CeO2 supported counterpart. This study provides new insights into the design of highly efficient and stable RWGS catalysts, highlighting the key role of the Pt-RE SBC interface synergistic effect and support selection, which is of great significance for the resource utilization of CO2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Nanomaterials in Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage (Second Edition))
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12 pages, 4404 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Analysis of Temperature-Dependent Photoluminescence in Silica-Encapsulated CsPbBr3 and CsPbI3 Perovskite Nanocrystals
by Ming Mei, Minju Kim, Sang Hyuk Park, Ga Eul Choi, Songyi Lee, Robert A. Taylor, Wei Chen, Suck Won Hong and Kwangseuk Kyhm
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010076 - 5 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1275
Abstract
The temperature-dependent photoluminescence of CsPbBr3/SiO2 and CsPbI3/SiO2 nanocrystals was investigated to understand the thermal stability of SiO2 encapsulation. At increased temperature, intensity quenching, linewidth broadening, energy level shift, and decay dynamics were evaluated as quantified parameters. [...] Read more.
The temperature-dependent photoluminescence of CsPbBr3/SiO2 and CsPbI3/SiO2 nanocrystals was investigated to understand the thermal stability of SiO2 encapsulation. At increased temperature, intensity quenching, linewidth broadening, energy level shift, and decay dynamics were evaluated as quantified parameters. Comprehensive analysis of these parameters supports that CsPbI3/SiO2 nanocrystals show a stronger interaction with phonons compared with CsPbBr3/SiO2 nanocrystals. Despite SiO2 encapsulation, we conclude that trapping states are still present and the degree of localization can be characterized in terms of short-lived decay time and thermal activation energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
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41 pages, 3073 KB  
Review
Sustainable Carbon Nanomaterials from Biomass Precursors: Green Synthesis Strategies and Environmental Applications
by Ernesto Almaraz-Vega, Aislinn Itzel Morales-Vargas, Guillermo Gómez Delgado, Laura Castellanos-Arteaga, Ofelia Iñiguez Gómez and Claudia Cecilia Flores Salcedo
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010075 - 5 Jan 2026
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2293
Abstract
Environmental pollution caused by industrialization and population growth has intensified the demand for sustainable materials capable of mitigating contaminants effectively. In this context, the green synthesis of carbon-based nanomaterials derived from biomass has gained significant attention as an eco-friendly and renewable approach that [...] Read more.
Environmental pollution caused by industrialization and population growth has intensified the demand for sustainable materials capable of mitigating contaminants effectively. In this context, the green synthesis of carbon-based nanomaterials derived from biomass has gained significant attention as an eco-friendly and renewable approach that reduces dependence on fossil resources. These nanomaterials exhibit outstanding physicochemical characteristics, including high surface area, tunable porosity, abundant functional groups, and excellent stability, which enhance their performance in environmental remediation. Specifically, biomass-derived carbon nanomaterials have demonstrated remarkable efficiency as adsorbents for the removal of heavy metals and organic pollutants, as well as photocatalysts for the degradation of toxic compounds under visible light irradiation. The physicochemical properties of the resulting materials are strongly influenced by the type and pretreatment of the biomass, along with synthesis parameters such as pyrolysis temperature, activation process, and heteroatom doping. This review highlights recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and environmental applications of biomass-derived carbon nanomaterials, emphasizing their potential as cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable solutions for wastewater treatment and pollutant degradation in both aquatic and atmospheric systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)
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25 pages, 2123 KB  
Review
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Nano-Aluminum: A Review on Oxidation, Structure Regulation, and Energetic Applications
by Dihua Ouyang, Xin Chen, Qiantao Zhang, Chunpei Yu, He Cheng, Weiqiang Pang and Jieshan Qiu
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010074 - 5 Jan 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1262
Abstract
Nano-aluminum (nAl), characterized by its high combustion enthalpy and enhanced reactivity, serves as a critical component in advanced energetic materials like solid propellants and micro-ignition devices. However, the atomic-scale mechanisms governing its core–shell structure evolution, oxidation dynamics, and interfacial interactions remain elusive to [...] Read more.
Nano-aluminum (nAl), characterized by its high combustion enthalpy and enhanced reactivity, serves as a critical component in advanced energetic materials like solid propellants and micro-ignition devices. However, the atomic-scale mechanisms governing its core–shell structure evolution, oxidation dynamics, and interfacial interactions remain elusive to experimental probes due to spatiotemporal limitations. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, particularly the synergistic use of a ReaxFF reactive force field (for large-scale systems) and ab initio MD (for electronic-level accuracy), have emerged as a powerful tool to overcome this barrier. This review systematically delineates the oxidation mechanisms and core–shell structure regulation of nAl, with a focus on the multi-scale simulation paradigm integrating DFT, AIMD, and ReaxFF MD that directly supports nAl research. It critically examines the pivotal role of MD simulations in guiding the surface modification of nAl, elucidating combustion mechanisms at the atomic level, and designing interfaces in energetic composite systems. By synthesizing recent advances (2022–2025), this study establishes a clear structure–property relationship between microscopic features and macroscopic performance of nAl. Furthermore, it identifies prevailing challenges, including simulations under multi-physics loading, multi-scale bridging, and quantitative experiment-simulation validation that specifically affect nAl-based energetic systems. Finally, future research directions are prospected, encompassing the development of machine learning-empowered force fields tailored for nAl systems, multi-scale and multi-field coupling simulation frameworks targeting nAl applications, and closed-loop experiment-simulation systems for nAl-based energetic materials. This review aims to provide fundamental insights and a technical framework for the rational design and engineering application of nAl-based energetic materials in fields such as aerospace propulsion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano- and Micro-Scale Innovative Materials and Development: Selected Papers from the 6th International Micro-Nanotechnology Innovation and Development Forum (6-IMNIDF))
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14 pages, 3926 KB  
Article
Structurally Dependent Self-Propulsion Behaviors of Pt-SiO2 Micromotors
by Le Zhou, Qian Zhao, Hongwen Zhang, Haoming Bao and Weiping Cai
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010073 - 4 Jan 2026
Viewed by 766
Abstract
The structural dependence of self-propelled motion in micro/nanomotors is essential for effectively predicting and controlling their dynamic behaviors. In this study, platinum–silica (Pt-SiO2) micromotors, with structures ranging from spherical Janus to dimer configurations, are fabricated through conventional template-assisted deposition, followed by [...] Read more.
The structural dependence of self-propelled motion in micro/nanomotors is essential for effectively predicting and controlling their dynamic behaviors. In this study, platinum–silica (Pt-SiO2) micromotors, with structures ranging from spherical Janus to dimer configurations, are fabricated through conventional template-assisted deposition, followed by annealing. These structures are used to investigate how geometry influences motion. Our results demonstrate that the architecture of the Pt-SiO2 micromotor strongly affects its propulsion mode and trajectory in solution. When immersed in a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) solution, spherical Janus Pt-SiO2 micromotors exhibit quasi-linear motion, driven by the Pt side (Pt pushing). In contrast, dimeric structures and intermediate forms varied from Janus to dimer display quasi-circular trajectories with continuously changing directions, characteristic of Pt-dragging motion. We reveal that these distinct propulsion behaviors stem from differences in the spatial distribution of Pt on the SiO2 sphere surface. Variations in Pt distribution alter the exposed silica surface area—rich in hydroxyl groups—which modulates the driving force and causes the resultant force acting on the micromotor to deviate from its mass center axis (or the axis connecting the mass centers of the Pt component and silica sphere), thereby inducing circular motion. This study offers a versatile strategy for fabricating Pt-SiO2 micromotors with tailored structures and advances the fundamental understanding of structure-dependent self-propulsion mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanofabrication and Nanomanufacturing)
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16 pages, 2859 KB  
Article
Graphene-Based Nanostructures Produced by Laser Ablation Assisted by Electric Field
by Mariapompea Cutroneo, Vaclav Holy, Petr Malinsky, Petr Slepicka, Alena Michalcova and Lorenzo Torrisi
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010072 - 4 Jan 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1123
Abstract
The properties of carbon-based materials with nanometric size support their use in numerous applications, such as optoelectronics and energy devices, bioimaging, photodetectors, and sensors. Among the various nanostructure fabrication methods, pulsed laser ablation in liquids (PLA) is widely recognized for its simplicity and [...] Read more.
The properties of carbon-based materials with nanometric size support their use in numerous applications, such as optoelectronics and energy devices, bioimaging, photodetectors, and sensors. Among the various nanostructure fabrication methods, pulsed laser ablation in liquids (PLA) is widely recognized for its simplicity and rapid processing. It is considered an environmentally friendly synthesis, as it enables nanostructure fabrication in pure liquids without chemical reagents, activators, or vacuum systems, in line with the increasing interest in sustainable and green nanotechnologies. A great challenge of PLA is the reproducibility of the size and shape of the produced structure. This can be accomplished by selection of the proper laser parameters and characteristics of the used liquid. This study is focused on the comparison of the synthesis of graphene-based nanostructures by electric-field-assisted pulsed laser ablation of a graphite target immersed in distilled water and deionized water, used as separate liquid media, without the use of chemical reagents. This is an innovative and environmentally friendly approach for the production of graphene nanoparticles. The laser parameters were kept constant throughout the experiments, while different voltage values were applied between the electrodes immersed in the liquid medium. The applied electric field significantly influences plasma dynamics, cavitation bubble evolution, and post-ablation nanoparticle growth processes, enabling controlled tuning of nanoparticle size and morphology. The optical properties of the obtained suspensions were evaluated by UV–Vis and FTIR spectroscopies. Atomic force microscopy revealed the composition, morphology, and quality of the formed structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanofabrication and Nanomanufacturing)
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19 pages, 3240 KB  
Article
Pd/MnO2:Pd/C Electrocatalysts for Efficient Hydrogen and Oxygen Electrode Reactions in AEMFCs
by Ivan Cruz-Reyes, Balter Trujillo-Navarrete, Moisés Israel Salazar-Gastélum, José Roberto Flores-Hernández, Tatiana Romero-Castañón and Rosa María Félix-Navarro
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010071 - 4 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 984
Abstract
Developing cost-effective and durable electrocatalysts is essential for advancing anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). This work evaluates Pd-based catalysts supported on β-MnO2, Vulcan carbon (C), and their physical blend (Pd/MnO2:Pd/C) as bifunctional electrodes for the oxygen reduction reaction [...] Read more.
Developing cost-effective and durable electrocatalysts is essential for advancing anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). This work evaluates Pd-based catalysts supported on β-MnO2, Vulcan carbon (C), and their physical blend (Pd/MnO2:Pd/C) as bifunctional electrodes for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR). The catalysts were synthesized via chemical reduction and characterized by TGA, ICP-OES, TEM, BET, and XRD. Rotating disk electrode studies revealed that the hybrid exhibited superior activity and kinetics, with lower Tafel slopes and higher exchange current densities compared to the individual supports. In AEMFCs, the hybrid reached 128.0 mW cm−2 as a cathode and 221.7 mW cm−2 as an anode, outperforming individual components. This enhanced performance arises from the synergistic interaction between Pd nanoparticles and MnO2, where MnO2 modulates the catalyst’s microstructure and local reaction environment while the carbon phase ensures efficient electron transport. MnO2, although inactive for the HOR alone, acted as a structural spacer, enhancing mass transport and stability. Durability tests confirmed that the hybrid electrocatalyst retained over 99% of its initial activity after 3000 cycles. These results highlight the hybrid Pd/MnO2:Pd/C as a promising, bifunctional, and durable electrocatalyst for AEMFC applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanostructured Electrode Materials: Design and Applications (2nd Edition))
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1 pages, 133 KB  
Correction
Correction: Mohamed et al. Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Green-Synthesized Using Extracts of Different Plants. Nanomaterials 2024, 14, 1383
by Amr Mohamed, Marwa Dayo, Sana Alahmadi and Samah Ali
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010070 - 4 Jan 2026
Viewed by 437
Abstract
In the original publication [...] Full article
15 pages, 2246 KB  
Article
Mechanical Enhancements of Electrospun Silica Microfibers with Boron Nitride Nanotubes
by Dingli Wang, Nasim Anjum, Zihan Liu and Changhong Ke
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010069 - 3 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 735
Abstract
We investigate the mechanical properties of electrospun boron nitride nanotube (BNNT)-reinforced silica nanocomposite microfibers. The incorporation of small amounts of BNNTs (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%) into silica results in significant enhancements in the bulk mechanical performance, including up to a 26.4% increase [...] Read more.
We investigate the mechanical properties of electrospun boron nitride nanotube (BNNT)-reinforced silica nanocomposite microfibers. The incorporation of small amounts of BNNTs (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%) into silica results in significant enhancements in the bulk mechanical performance, including up to a 26.4% increase in Young’s modulus, a 19.4% increase in tensile strength, and a 12.8% increase in toughness. These improvements are attributed to the excellent nanotube alignment achieved via electrospinning and the effective transfer of interfacial loads at the BNNT–silica interface. Micromechanical analysis based on in situ Raman measurements reveals that the maximum interfacial shear stress in the electrospun BNNT–silica microfiber reaches about 341 MPa. This study provides new insights into the process–structure–property relationship and reinforcement mechanisms in nanotube-reinforced ceramic nanocomposites, thereby advancing the development of lightweight, strong, tough, and durable ceramic materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Boron Nitride Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties, and Reinforcing Composites)
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13 pages, 9612 KB  
Communication
Lanthanide-Doped Cs2ZrCl6 Perovskite Nanocrystals for Multimode Anti-Counterfeiting Application
by Longbin You, Qixin Wang, Yuting Liao, Xiaotian Zhu, Keyuan Ding and Xian Chen
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010068 - 2 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1238
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of counterfeiting and forgery has imposed unprecedented demands on advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies. Traditional luminescent materials, relying on single-mode or static emission, are inherently vulnerable to replication using commercially available phosphors or simple spectral blending. Multimode luminescent materials exhibiting excitation wavelength-dependent [...] Read more.
The escalating prevalence of counterfeiting and forgery has imposed unprecedented demands on advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies. Traditional luminescent materials, relying on single-mode or static emission, are inherently vulnerable to replication using commercially available phosphors or simple spectral blending. Multimode luminescent materials exhibiting excitation wavelength-dependent emission offer significantly higher encoding capacity and forgery resistance. Herein, we report the colloidal synthesis of lanthanide-doped Cs2ZrCl6 nanocrystals (Ln3+ = Tb, Eu, Pr, Sm, Dy, Ho) via a robust hot-injection route. These nanocrystals universally exhibit efficient host-to-guest energy transfer from self-trapped excitons (STEs) under 254 nm, yielding sharp characteristic Ln3+ f–f emission alongside the intrinsic broadband STE luminescence. Critically, Tb3+ enables direct 4f → 5d excitation at ~275 nm, while Eu3+ introduces a low-energy Eu3+ ← Cl− LMCT band at ~305 nm, completely bypassing STE emission. Due to their multimode luminescent characteristics, we fabricate a triple-mode anti-counterfeiting label displaying different colors under different types of excitation. These findings establish a breakthrough excitation-encoded multimode platform, offering potential applications for next-generation photonic security labels, scintillation detectors, and solid-state lighting applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lanthanide-Doped Luminescent Nanomaterials: Design, Synthesis, Optical Properties and Applications: 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 6987 KB  
Article
Bi2Se3/n-Si Schottky Junctions for Near-Infrared Photodetectors
by Matteo Salvato, Riccardo Ciciotti, Filippo Pierucci, Mattia Scagliotti, Matteo Rapisarda, Antonio Vecchione, Anita Guarino, Michele Crivellari and Paola Castrucci
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010067 - 2 Jan 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 935
Abstract
Bi2Se3 thin films with different thicknesses are deposited on prepatterned n-Si substrates by the vapor–solid deposition method, demonstrating photodetector performances in the visible and near-infrared range up to the telecommunication wavelength 1550 nm and showing response times as low as [...] Read more.
Bi2Se3 thin films with different thicknesses are deposited on prepatterned n-Si substrates by the vapor–solid deposition method, demonstrating photodetector performances in the visible and near-infrared range up to the telecommunication wavelength 1550 nm and showing response times as low as 126 ns. The current voltage characteristics measured in the temperature range 77–300 K indicate the formation of Schottky junctions at the interface between the two materials. The nature of the junctions is discussed considering the effect of disorder at the interface induced by the Bi2Se3 film granularity. The temperature dependence of the ideality factors and the Schottky barrier heights is consistent with a thermionic field effect mechanism governing the electron motion through the interface, which is responsible for the fast response of the photodetectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials for High-Performance Transistors and Photodetectors)
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15 pages, 16374 KB  
Article
Achieving High Strength and Low Yield Ratio via Direct Quenching and Aging in Cu-Precipitation-Strengthened Steel
by Xinghao Wei, Youjing Zhang, Yajie Wen, Chaofei Yang, Xinghua Wang, Jiajia Niu and Renfu Wang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010066 - 2 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 682
Abstract
The high yield ratio remains a critical challenge restricting the widespread application of ultra-high-strength steels. This study investigates a direct quenching and aging (DQA) route without solution treatment in a Cu-precipitation-strengthened steel, aiming to achieve high strength combined with a low yield ratio, [...] Read more.
The high yield ratio remains a critical challenge restricting the widespread application of ultra-high-strength steels. This study investigates a direct quenching and aging (DQA) route without solution treatment in a Cu-precipitation-strengthened steel, aiming to achieve high strength combined with a low yield ratio, and compares it with the conventional solution treatment plus aging (SQA) process. The DQA sample exhibits an excellent yield strength of 1205 MPa, a low yield ratio of 0.93, and an impact energy of 105 J at −20 °C. Microstructural analysis reveals that the high dislocation density and refined grain structure generated during rolling provided numerous nucleation sites for fine, dense Cu precipitates during DQA treatment, thereby enhancing precipitation strengthening. The reduced yield ratio is primarily attributed to the high initial dislocation density and deformation substructure, which enhance work-hardening capacity and consequently lower the yield ratio. The toughness mechanisms of both processes are also discussed in detail. These findings offer valuable insights into optimizing the strength–toughness balance of ultra-high-strength steels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties and Applications for Nanostructured Alloys)
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10 pages, 1187 KB  
Article
Gigantic Vortical Dichroism and Handedness-Dependent Optical Response in Spiral Metamaterials
by Kangzhun Peng, Hengyue Luo, Shiqi Luo, Zhi-Yuan Li and Wenyao Liang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010065 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 631
Abstract
Light carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) has emerged as a promising tool for manipulating light–matter interactions, providing an additional degree of freedom to explore chiral-optical phenomena at the nanoscale. When such vortex beams interact with chiral metamaterials, a unique phenomenon of optical asymmetry [...] Read more.
Light carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) has emerged as a promising tool for manipulating light–matter interactions, providing an additional degree of freedom to explore chiral-optical phenomena at the nanoscale. When such vortex beams interact with chiral metamaterials, a unique phenomenon of optical asymmetry known as vortical dichroism (VD) arises. Nevertheless, most existing chiral metamaterials exhibit limited VD responses, and the underlying physical mechanisms are yet to be fully clarified. In this work, we propose three-dimensional spiral metamaterials that achieve gigantic VD effect. This pronounced VD effect originates from the intrinsic coupling between the spiral structure and the chirality inherent to optical vortices, which leads to strongly asymmetric scattering intensities for left- and right-handed OAM beams of opposite topological charges. Numerical simulations confirm a remarkable VD value of 0.69. Further analysis of electric field distributions reveals that the asymmetric VD response stems from a handedness-dependent excitation of distinct electromagnetic modes. For opposite handedness, spatial mode mismatch results in enhanced scattering. In contrast, matching handedness enables efficient energy coupling into a guided spiral mode, which suppresses scattering. These findings not only deepen the physical understanding of VD mechanisms but also establish a versatile platform for developing advanced chiral photonic devices and enhancing OAM-based light–matter interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Two-Dimensional Materials and Metamaterials in Photonics and Optoelectronics (Second Edition))
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17 pages, 5432 KB  
Article
Chemical Compatibility of n-Type Dopants for SWCNT Cathodes in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
by Achmad Syarif Hidayat, Naoki Ueoka, Hisayoshi Oshima, Yoshimasa Hijikata and Yutaka Matsuo
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010064 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 1171
Abstract
The advancement of efficient and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs) increasingly depends on developing flexible, metal-free electrode architectures. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) offer chemical robustness, high conductivity, and mechanical flexibility, making them promising candidates to replace brittle metal cathodes. However, pristine SWCNTs are [...] Read more.
The advancement of efficient and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs) increasingly depends on developing flexible, metal-free electrode architectures. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) offer chemical robustness, high conductivity, and mechanical flexibility, making them promising candidates to replace brittle metal cathodes. However, pristine SWCNTs are intrinsically p-type, creating energy barriers and recombination losses in inverted (p–i–n) PSCs. Achieving stable n-type doping compatible with both SWCNTs and perovskites is therefore critical. Here, seven representative n-type dopants, small molecules (TBD and TPP), ionic salts (TBAI, TBABr, and B18C6·KCl), and polymers (PEI and PVP) were systematically investigated to elucidate their effects on doping efficiency and interfacial stability. Morphological, structural, and electronic analyses supported by DFT calculations reveal that strong bases and ionic dopants promote perovskite degradation, whereas polymeric and coordination-type dopants preserve crystallinity and surface uniformity. Among them, PEI- and TPP-doped SWCNT electrodes achieved the best device performance, with power conversion efficiencies of 9.6% and 8.1%, respectively, demonstrating efficient electron extraction and interfacial stability. These findings highlight that interfacial chemical compatibility rather than intrinsic donor strength governs the effectiveness of n-type SWCNT doping, providing rational design principles for stable, metal-free perovskite photovoltaics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Perovskite Solar Cells and Optoelectronic Devices)
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13 pages, 2938 KB  
Article
Electronic and Optical Behaviors of Platinum (Pt) Nanoparticles and Correlations with Gamma Radiation Dose and Precursor Concentration
by Elham Gharibshahi, Elias Saion, Ahmadreza Ashraf, Leila Gharibshahi and Sina Ashraf
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010063 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 851
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to examine how the electro-optical behavior of platinum (Pt) nanoparticles prepared via the gamma radiolysis process is related to both the radiation dose and to the Pt precursor concentration. The Pt precursor used in these experiments has [...] Read more.
The purpose of this research is to examine how the electro-optical behavior of platinum (Pt) nanoparticles prepared via the gamma radiolysis process is related to both the radiation dose and to the Pt precursor concentration. The Pt precursor used in these experiments has been radiolytically degraded using a 60Co gamma source at dosages ranging from 80 kGy to 120 kGy. As well, varying the concentration of the Pt precursor from 5.0 × 10−4 M to 20.0 × 10−4 M was carried out as a systematic investigation. Spectrophotometric analysis utilizing UV–Visible spectroscopy and TEM provided the optical data and particle size information for the nanoparticles. The results indicate that increasing the radiation dosage results in smaller Pt nanoparticle sizes due to an increased rate of nucleation and that increasing the Pt precursor concentration leads to larger Pt nanoparticles due to an increase in ion recombination. Both the dose and concentration dependency of the optical absorption spectrum indicate a significant relationship between size and plasmon behavior. Also, the conduction band energy level, which was determined from the maximum of the UV–Visible absorption peak, is dependent on the particle size and shows a pronounced quantum confinement effect, with the conduction band energy increasing as the particle size decreases. Thus, these studies provide a definitive correlation of structure–property in Pt nanoparticles and confirm the capability of the gamma radiolytic synthesis process to be used for controlling the specific electronic and optical properties of Pt nanoparticles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Radiation Technology in Nanomaterials)
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14 pages, 2313 KB  
Article
Ultrasound Imaging Properties of Heterologously Synthesized Gas Vesicles from Halophilic Archaeon
by Wenze Ou, Chenxing Liu, Yuanyuan Wang, Qiuxia Fu, Wei Liu, Huan Long and Fei Yan
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010062 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 742
Abstract
Biosynthetic gas vesicles (GVs), as novel nanoscale ultrasound contrast agents, exhibit unique potential in biomedical ultrasound imaging. For example, they are expected to have better tissue penetration through the tumor vasculature for detecting tumor cells by the design of GV-based acoustic probes. Of [...] Read more.
Biosynthetic gas vesicles (GVs), as novel nanoscale ultrasound contrast agents, exhibit unique potential in biomedical ultrasound imaging. For example, they are expected to have better tissue penetration through the tumor vasculature for detecting tumor cells by the design of GV-based acoustic probes. Of all these GVs, GVs from Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 possess the largest size (over 200 nm) and are nearly spherical in shape, endowing them with stronger acoustic signals and better tumor penetration. However, their genetic manipulation is relatively difficult due to the requirement of a high-salt cytoplasmic environment for their expression and assembly, limiting the application of biosynthetic technology for modulating their structural features in heterologous host cells. In this study, we cloned the gene cluster encoding GVs from Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 and transformed it into Haloferax volcanii, an archaeal species naturally incapable of producing GVs. The genetically engineered Haloferax volcanii successfully synthesized functional GVs (GVvol) with a similar size and shape to naturally synthesized GVs from Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 (GVhalo). The ultrasound imaging properties of GVvol heterologously synthesized in Haloferax volcanii were compared with naturally synthesized GVhalo in vitro and in vivo, showing that GVvol could achieve a mean signal intensity of 113.6 ± 0.9 a.u. in vitro and a peak intensity of 121.5 ± 0.8 a.u. in vivo in the kidney, compared with 115.7 ± 0.5 a.u. and 119.0 ± 0.5 a.u. for GVhalo, respectively. These findings confirm the functional integrity of heterologously synthesized GVvol and its potential for biomedical applications. Our study provides a solid experimental foundation for genetically tailoring Halobacterium GV properties to optimize biomedical imaging performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Bioimaging: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 2112 KB  
Article
Tuning the Oxidative Activity of Single Atom Catalysts by Carbon Doping in Hexagonal Boron Nitride Supports
by Jie Zhang, Yingguang Zhou and Naixia Lv
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010061 - 31 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 657
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have gained significant attention due to their exceptional metal atom utilization efficiency and high catalytic activity. Using DFT calculations, single-atom metals (M = Ag, Au) on defective and carbon-doped h-BN supports (M@BN and M@nC-BN) are systematically investigated to elucidate the [...] Read more.
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have gained significant attention due to their exceptional metal atom utilization efficiency and high catalytic activity. Using DFT calculations, single-atom metals (M = Ag, Au) on defective and carbon-doped h-BN supports (M@BN and M@nC-BN) are systematically investigated to elucidate the effects of C-doping concentration and configuration on their structural stability, and to explore their potential application in O2 activation. The results indicate the singlet O2 adsorbed configuration is more effective in activating the O–O bond than the triplet one. Ag@4C-BN and Au@6C-BN exhibit good stability comparable to their undoped counterparts. Compared to M@BN, the M@nC-BN surfaces, particularly M@4C-BN, exhibit significantly enhanced adsorption of singlet O2, accompanied by the most notable O–O bond elongation, indicating its superior capability for O2 activation. DOS and frontier orbital analysis reveals that C-doping upshifts the HOMO energy level of M@4C-BN, endowing the catalyst with a stronger electron-donating ability to O2 2π* and leading to efficient activation. This study provides a theoretical basis for the rational design and optimization of BN-based single-atom catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical Simulations on Single-Atom Materials)
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32 pages, 6831 KB  
Article
Catalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange Using Fe/Ag/Zn Trimetallic Nanoparticles
by Masaku Kgatle, Keneiloe Khoabane, Ntsoaki Mphuthi, Gebhu Ndlovu and Nosipho Moloto
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010060 - 31 Dec 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1096
Abstract
The present study involves the synthesis of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-stabilized iron-based trimetallic nanoparticles with different metal addition sequences (Fe/Ag/Zn, Fe/Zn/Ag and Fe/(Zn/Ag)) using the sodium borohydride reduction method. In order to investigate the catalytic reactivity of the nanoparticles, a series of batch experiments were [...] Read more.
The present study involves the synthesis of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-stabilized iron-based trimetallic nanoparticles with different metal addition sequences (Fe/Ag/Zn, Fe/Zn/Ag and Fe/(Zn/Ag)) using the sodium borohydride reduction method. In order to investigate the catalytic reactivity of the nanoparticles, a series of batch experiments were performed using methyl orange dye as a model pollutant. It was found that the Fe/Ag/Zn system showed the maximum catalytic activity compared to the other studied trimetallic systems. About 100% of the methyl orange dye was removed within 1 min and the second-order rate constant obtained was 0.0744 (mg/L)−1 min−1; the rate of reaction was higher than that of the other trimetallic systems. Furthermore, the effects of pH, initial dye concentration and nanoparticle dosage on the degradation of methyl orange were investigated. The results showed that the reactivity of the Fe/Ag/Zn trimetallic nanoparticles was highly dependent on the aforementioned parameters. Higher reactivity was obtained at lower pH, lower initial methyl orange dye concentration and higher nanoparticle dosage. Lastly, liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) was used to elucidate the reaction pathway and identify by-products from methyl orange degradation. The developed catalyst demonstrated exceptionally rapid and apparent degradation of methyl orange within one minute, outperforming previously reported bimetallic and trimetallic systems. This work reports a cost-effective nZVI-based trimetallic system containing minimal silver, which shows promising reactivity toward azo dye degradation and may be suitable for future application in textile wastewater treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Water Remediation (3rd Edition))
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13 pages, 4256 KB  
Article
Aqua Regia-Free Removal of Cr-Pt Hard Masks Using Thin Ag or Au Sacrificial Layers for High-Fidelity LiTaO3 Metasurfaces
by Zhuoqun Wang, Yufeng Zang, Yuechen Jia and Ning Lu
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010059 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
For the method of focused ion beam (FIB) milling to fabricate lithium tantalate (LiTaO3) metasurfaces, the use of a Cr-Pt mask can enhance imaging contrast and enable superior drift correction. However, removing the Pt component necessitates the volatile and toxic etchant [...] Read more.
For the method of focused ion beam (FIB) milling to fabricate lithium tantalate (LiTaO3) metasurfaces, the use of a Cr-Pt mask can enhance imaging contrast and enable superior drift correction. However, removing the Pt component necessitates the volatile and toxic etchant aqua regia, presenting considerable safety risks. This work introduces a novel lift-off strategy that incorporates thin Ag or Au sacrificial layers (≤30 nm) between the LiTaO3 substrate and Cr-Pt mask. Systematic evaluation identifies Ag or Au as optimal candidates due to their high sputtering yield for efficient FIB patterning and compatibility with a low-toxicity KI + I2 etchant. Experiments showed complete mask removal within 60 s while preserving structural fidelity: atomic force microscopy (AFM) results reveal a surface roughness comparable to conventional aqua regia processing, and scanning microscope (SEM) imaging confirms intact sidewall angles (10–11°). The second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements reveal comparable optical performance upon the introduction of Ag or Au sacrificial layers. This approach eliminates hazardous etchant and maintains process precision, offering a scalable and safer fabrication route for LiTaO3-based photonic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanofabrication and Nanomanufacturing)
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20 pages, 3043 KB  
Article
Fibrous Mesoporous Silica KCC-1 Functionalized with 3,5-Di-tert-butylsalicylaldehyde as an Efficient Dispersive Solid-Phase Extraction Sorbent for Pb(II) and Co(II) from Water
by Sultan K. Alharbi, Yassin T. H. Mehdar, Manal A. Almalki, Khaled A. Thumayri, Khaled M. AlMohaimadi, Bandar R. Alsehli, Awadh O. AlSuhaimi and Belal H. M. Hussein
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010058 - 31 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1052
Abstract
The accurate determination of trace metals in aqueous matrices necessitates robust sample preparation techniques that enable selective preconcentration of analytes while ensuring compatibility with subsequent instrumental analysis. Dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE), a suspension-based variant of conventional solid-phase extraction (SPE), facilitates rapid sorbent–analyte interactions [...] Read more.
The accurate determination of trace metals in aqueous matrices necessitates robust sample preparation techniques that enable selective preconcentration of analytes while ensuring compatibility with subsequent instrumental analysis. Dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE), a suspension-based variant of conventional solid-phase extraction (SPE), facilitates rapid sorbent–analyte interactions and enhances mass transfer efficiency through direct dispersion of the sorbent in the sample solution. This approach offers significant advantages over traditional column-based SPE, including faster extraction kinetics and greater operational simplicity. When supported by appropriately engineered sorbents, d-SPE exhibits considerable potential for the selective enrichment of trace metal analytes from complex aqueous matrices. In this work, a fibrous silica-based chelating material, DSA-KCC-1, was synthesized by grafting 3,5-Di-tert-butylsalicylaldehyde (DSA) onto aminopropyl-modified KCC-1. The dendritic KCC-1 scaffold enables fast dispersion and short diffusion pathways, while the immobilized phenolate–imine ligand introduces defined binding sites for transition-metal uptake. Characterization by FTIR, TGA, BET, FESEM/TEM, XRD, and elemental analysis confirmed the successfulness of functionalization and preservation of the fibrous mesostructured. Adsorption studies demonstrated chemisorption-driven interactions for Pb(II) and Co(II) from water, with Langmuir-type monolayer uptake and pseudo-second-order kinetic behavior. The nano-adsorbent exhibited a markedly higher affinity for Pb(II) than for Co(II), with maximum adsorption capacities of 99.73 and 66.26 mg g−1, respectively. Integration of the DSA-KCC-1 nanosorbent into a d-SPE–ICP-OES workflow enabled the reliable determination of trace levels of the target ions, delivering low limits of detection, wide linear calibration ranges, and stable performance over repeated extraction cycles. Analysis of NIST CRM 1643d yielded results in good agreement with the certified values, while the method demonstrated high tolerance toward common coexisting ions. The combined structural features of the KCC-1 support and the Schiff-base ligand indicate the suitability of DSA-KCC-1 for d-SPE workflows and demonstrate the potential of this SPE format for selective preconcentration of trace metal ions in aqueous matrices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Nanoscience and Nanotechnology)
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11 pages, 5555 KB  
Article
Dynamics of Ferroelastic Domain Walls Associated with the Dielectric Relaxation in CsPbCl3 Single Crystals
by Zijun Yu, Chen Zou and Dexin Yang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010057 - 31 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 812
Abstract
Cesium lead chloride (CsPbCl3) is a stable, wide-bandgap perovskite with significant potential for ultraviolet (UV) photodetection and blue light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the dynamical mechanisms of ferroelastic domain walls associated with the dielectric relaxations in a single-crystal have rarely been reported. [...] Read more.
Cesium lead chloride (CsPbCl3) is a stable, wide-bandgap perovskite with significant potential for ultraviolet (UV) photodetection and blue light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the dynamical mechanisms of ferroelastic domain walls associated with the dielectric relaxations in a single-crystal have rarely been reported. In this work, we observed reversible phase transitions from cubic to tetragonal, and further to orthorhombic symmetry, accompanied by the formation and evolution of strip-like ferroelastic domain walls, using in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), and dielectric measurements. Notably, the dielectric studies revealed low temperature (~170–180 K) frequency-dependent loss peaks that we attribute to the pinning of polarized domain walls by chloride vacancies. We also found that the formation or disappearance of ferroelastic domain walls near the octahedral tilting transition temperatures leads to pronounced anomalies in the dielectric permittivity. These findings clarify the intrinsic phase behavior of CsPbCl3 single crystals and underscore the significant contribution of ferroelastic domain walls to its dielectric response, providing insights for optimizing its optoelectronic performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perovskite Nanostructured Materials for Next-Generation Light-Emitting Devices)
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16 pages, 3645 KB  
Article
Foliar-Applied Selenium–Zinc Nanocomposite Drives Synergistic Effects on Se/Zn Accumulation in Brassica chinensis L.
by Mengna Tao, Yusong Yao, Lian Zhang, Jie Zeng, Bingxu Cheng and Chuanxi Wang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010056 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Micronutrient malnutrition persists as a global health burden, while conventional biofortification approaches suffer from low efficiency and environmental trade-offs. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a foliar-applied selenium–zinc nanocomposite (Nano-ZSe, a mixture of zinc ionic fertilizer and nano selenium) for synergistic Se/Zn [...] Read more.
Micronutrient malnutrition persists as a global health burden, while conventional biofortification approaches suffer from low efficiency and environmental trade-offs. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a foliar-applied selenium–zinc nanocomposite (Nano-ZSe, a mixture of zinc ionic fertilizer and nano selenium) for synergistic Se/Zn co-biofortification in Brassica chinensis L., using a controlled pot experiment that integrated physiological, metabolic, molecular, and rhizosphere analyses. Application of Nano-ZSe at 0.18 mg·kg−1 (Based on soil weight) not only increased shoot biomass by 28.4% but also elevated Se and Zn concentrations in edible tissues by 7.00- and 1.66-fold (within the safe limits established for human consumption), respectively, compared to the control. Mechanistically, Nano-ZSe reprogrammed the ascorbate-glutathione redox system and redirected carbon flux through the tricarboxylic acid cycle, suppressing acetyl-CoA biosynthesis and reducing abscisic acid accumulation. This metabolic rewiring promoted stomatal opening, thereby enhancing foliar nutrient uptake. Simultaneously, Nano-ZSe triggered the coordinated upregulation of BcSultr1;1 (a sulfate/selenium transporter) and BcZIP4 (a Zn2+ transporter), enabling synchronized translocation and the tissue-level co-accumulation of Se and Zn. Beyond plant physiology, Nano-ZSe improved soil physicochemical properties, enriched rhizosphere microbial diversity, and increased crop yield and economic returns. Collectively, this work demonstrates that nano-enabled dual-nutrient delivery systems can bridge nutritional and agronomic objectives through integrated physiological, molecular, and rhizosphere-mediated mechanisms, offering a scalable and environmentally sustainable pathway toward functional food production and the mitigation of hidden hunger. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanotechnology in Agriculture)
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23 pages, 3668 KB  
Review
Nanodevice Approaches for Detecting Micro- and Nanoplastics in Complex Matrices
by Rita Paola Debri, Fabrizia Sepe, Silvia Romano, Nicolantonio D’Orazio, Antonino De Lorenzo, Anna Calarco, Raffaele Conte and Gianfranco Peluso
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010055 - 31 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1783
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly recognized as pervasive environmental contaminants with profound implications for ecosystems and human health. Their small size, compositional diversity, and occurrence across complex matrices—including water, soil, food, and biological samples—pose substantial analytical challenges. Conventional techniques such as vibrational [...] Read more.
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly recognized as pervasive environmental contaminants with profound implications for ecosystems and human health. Their small size, compositional diversity, and occurrence across complex matrices—including water, soil, food, and biological samples—pose substantial analytical challenges. Conventional techniques such as vibrational spectroscopy, chromatographic analysis, and electron microscopy have yielded critical insights into MNP composition, morphology, and distribution; however, these methods often face limitations in sensitivity, throughput, and adaptability to real-world samples. Recent advances in nanotechnology have catalyzed the emergence of nanodevices—encompassing nanosensors, nanopore systems, integrated lab-on-a-chip platforms and nanostructured capture materials—that promise enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and the capacity for real-time, in situ detection. These innovations not only facilitate high-throughput analysis but also provide novel opportunities for integrated characterization of MNPs across diverse matrices. This review synthesizes the current state of nanodevice-based MNP detection, critically examining their principles, performance, and limitations relative to conventional approaches, and outlining the key needs for standardization, matrix-specific adaptation, and regulatory harmonization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Nanodevices for Therapy: Present and Future Perspectives)
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15 pages, 3551 KB  
Article
Silver Nanoclusters Decrease Bacterial Resistance to Heavy Metals and Antibiotics
by Gennady L. Burygin, Daniil S. Chumakov, Anastasia S. Astankova, Yulia A. Filip’echeva, Julia A. Balabanova and Yelena V. Kryuchkova
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010054 - 31 Dec 2025
Viewed by 778
Abstract
Nanomaterials are widely used in biomedical research as drug and antibody carriers, and some nanomaterials have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity. Previously, silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) were predicted to interact with the bacterial TolC protein, which is involved in the development of multidrug [...] Read more.
Nanomaterials are widely used in biomedical research as drug and antibody carriers, and some nanomaterials have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity. Previously, silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) were predicted to interact with the bacterial TolC protein, which is involved in the development of multidrug resistance in pathogens. In this study, glutathione-coated AgNCs were synthesized and characterized. Their toxicological properties were studied in a microplate assay against five bacterial strains, both as single components and in mixtures with heavy metal salts and antibiotics. The resulting AgNCs had a diameter of 2.2 ± 0.5 nm, with excitation and emission maxima of λ = 490 nm and λ = 638 nm, respectively. No significant growth inhibition was observed at the concentrations used in resistance modulation assays (≤2.5 µg/mL Ag), except for transient effects at very high concentrations. A decrease in bacterial resistance to copper (II) and cadmium (II) cations and the antibiotics erythromycin and levofloxacin was observed upon the addition of AgNCs containing 2.5 μg/mL silver to the nutrient medium. A dose-dependent effect of AgNCs on bacterial resistance to toxicants was established. Thus, nanoclusters can be considered as inhibitors of bacterial resistance to heavy metals and antibiotics, which may be useful in studying bacterial adaptation mechanisms and developing technologies for overcoming multidrug resistance in bacteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Antimicrobial Agents and Nanomaterials—2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 4290 KB  
Article
Controlled One-Step Synthesis of Monodisperse CeO2 Octahedra in a Binary Solvent System with Waste Liquid Recycling
by Yaohui Xu, Yu Hu, Nengwei Zeng, Haimei Wang, Yuan Zhang, Zongjie Liu, Xinrui Chen and Zhao Ding
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010053 - 30 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 666
Abstract
To overcome the limitations of template-dependent and anion-assisted methods, this work presents a solvent-controlled strategy for the one-step solvothermal synthesis of octahedral CeO2. Using only Ce(NO3)3·6H2O in methanol/water (MeOH/H2O) mixtures without the addition [...] Read more.
To overcome the limitations of template-dependent and anion-assisted methods, this work presents a solvent-controlled strategy for the one-step solvothermal synthesis of octahedral CeO2. Using only Ce(NO3)3·6H2O in methanol/water (MeOH/H2O) mixtures without the addition of auxiliary templates or surfactants, phase-pure cubic CeO2 was obtained. Well-defined octahedra were exclusively formed in a 15 mL MeOH/5 mL H2O system at 180 °C for 12 h, whereas other alcohols (including ethanol (EtOH), n-propanol (n-PrOH), and iso-propanol (i-PrOH)) yielded irregular aggregates. Time-dependent evolution revealed continuous crystallinity optimization between 3 and 24 h, beyond which surface dissolution occurred. The solvothermal mother liquor could be recycled four times without compromising phase purity or octahedral morphology, as confirmed by XRD and SEM. This work provides a green and practical route for morphology-controlled oxide synthesis while significantly reducing solvent consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Sustainable Green Energy)
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15 pages, 2674 KB  
Article
Morphology-Dependent Percolation and Conductive Network Formation in Polymer Nanocomposites with Multi-Shaped Nanofillers
by Chang Xu, Yixuan Zhao and Hualong Zhang
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010052 - 30 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 668
Abstract
The electrical performance of polymer nanocomposites strongly depends on the morphology of nanofillers and the structure of the resulting conductive networks. To elucidate the mechanisms governing conductive network formation in multi-morphology nanofiller systems, a ternary coarse-grained model composed of rod-, Y-, and X-shaped [...] Read more.
The electrical performance of polymer nanocomposites strongly depends on the morphology of nanofillers and the structure of the resulting conductive networks. To elucidate the mechanisms governing conductive network formation in multi-morphology nanofiller systems, a ternary coarse-grained model composed of rod-, Y-, and X-shaped nanofillers is constructed. The effects of nanofiller volume fraction (VF) and nanofiller composition ratios on percolation behavior are systematically investigated. By incorporating an efficient cKDTree-based neighbor search method, conductive networks are identified and their topological characteristics are quantified with high computational efficiency. The results demonstrate that nanofiller morphology ratios play a crucial role in controlling local structural evolution and the percolation threshold. Statistical analyses of the main cluster size (MCs) and the number of clusters (Nc) further reveal the synergistic and competitive effects among different filler morphologies. The combination of filler morphologies is shown to be a key factor in determining the percolation threshold and network topology. The multi-morphology simulation framework together with structural characterization approach proposed in this work provide theoretical guidance for the rational design of high-performance conductive polymer nanocomposites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)
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14 pages, 2437 KB  
Article
Advanced Machine Learning Models for High-Temperature Magnetoresistivity Predictions of Ni81Fe19 Monolayers
by Tarik Akan, Perihan Aksu, Recep Sahingoz, Feliks S. Zaseev, Vladislav B. Zaalishvili and Tamerlan T. Magkoev
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010051 - 30 Dec 2025
Viewed by 523
Abstract
A 5 nm thick polycrystalline Ni81Fe19 film was sputter-deposited onto a circular 3-inch diameter, 390 μm thick single-crystal wafer with SiO2 surface layers. The magnetoresistance (MR) of the sample was analyzed [...] Read more.
A 5 nm thick polycrystalline Ni81Fe19 film was sputter-deposited onto a circular 3-inch diameter, 390 μm thick single-crystal wafer with SiO2 surface layers. The magnetoresistance (MR) of the sample was analyzed as a function of applied DC magnetic field and temperature using the Van der Pauw technique. Magnetic measurements were carried out over a temperature range of 25 °C to 350 °C using a Lake Shore Hall Effect Measurement System (HEMS). An external magnetic field ranging from +14 kG to −14 kG was applied at each temperature value to observe changes in resistance. Hall coefficients and resistance were obtained by applying current in both directions with different contact configurations. Machine learning techniques, including Random Forest Regression, were employed to predict magnetoresistivity beyond 350 °C; the best-performing model achieved R2 values up to 0.9449 with MSE as low as 0.0071, and enabled Curie temperature estimation with TC≈590.97 °C . This study highlights the potential of machine learning in accurately forecasting material properties beyond experimental limits, providing enhanced predictive models for the magnetoresistive behavior and critical temperature transitions of Ni81Fe19 . Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)
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11 pages, 1754 KB  
Article
In2O3 Cauliflower Modified with Au Nanoparticles for O3 Gas Detection at Room Temperature
by Xiumei Xu, Yi Zhou, Mengmeng Dai, Haijiao Zhang, Jing Xu, Gui Wang, Gang Yang and Yongsheng Zhu
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010050 - 30 Dec 2025
Viewed by 639
Abstract
Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS)-based chemiresistive gas sensors, attributable to their low cost, compact structure, and long operational lifetime, have been widely employed for the detection and monitoring of trace ozone (O3) in environmental air. Moreover, as ozone is a highly reactive [...] Read more.
Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS)-based chemiresistive gas sensors, attributable to their low cost, compact structure, and long operational lifetime, have been widely employed for the detection and monitoring of trace ozone (O3) in environmental air. Moreover, as ozone is a highly reactive oxidizing species extensively used in medical device sterilization, hospital disinfection, and food processing and preservation, accurate monitoring of ozone concentration is also essential in medical sanitation and food safety inspection. However, their practical applications are often limited by insufficient sensitivity and the requirement for elevated operating temperatures. In this study, Au-modified indium oxide (Au-In2O3) nanocomposite sensing materials were synthesized via a hydrothermal route followed by surface modification. Structural and morphological characterizations confirmed the uniform dispersion of Au nanoparticles on the In2O3 surface, which is expected to enhance the interaction between the sensor and target gas molecules. The resulting Au-In2O3 sensor exhibited excellent O3 sensing performance under room-temperature conditions. Compared with pristine In2O3, the Au-In2O3 sensor with 1.0 wt% Au modification demonstrated a remarkably enhanced response of 1398.4 toward 1 ppm O3 at room temperature. Moreover, the corresponding response/recovery times were shortened to 102/358 s for Au-In2O3. The outstanding O3 sensing performance can be attributed to the synergistic effects of Au nanoparticles, including the spillover effect and the formation of a Schottky junction at the Au-In2O3 interface. These results suggest that Au-modified In2O3 cauliflower represents a highly promising candidate material for high performance O3 sensing at low operating temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)
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43 pages, 5874 KB  
Review
Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotics Using Nanomaterials: Mechanisms, Applications, and Future Perspectives
by Jianwei Liu, Hongwei Ruan, Pengfei Duan, Peng Shao, Yang Zhou, Ying Wang, Yudi Chen, Zhiyong Yan and Yang Liu
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010049 - 29 Dec 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2380
Abstract
Widespread antibiotic residues in aquatic environments pose escalating threats to ecological stability and human health, highlighting the urgent demand for effective remediation strategies. In recent years, photocatalytic technology based on advanced nanomaterials has emerged as a sustainable and efficient strategy for antibiotic degradation, [...] Read more.
Widespread antibiotic residues in aquatic environments pose escalating threats to ecological stability and human health, highlighting the urgent demand for effective remediation strategies. In recent years, photocatalytic technology based on advanced nanomaterials has emerged as a sustainable and efficient strategy for antibiotic degradation, enabling the effective utilization of solar energy for environmental remediation. This review provides an in-depth discussion of six representative categories of photocatalytic nanomaterials that have demonstrated remarkable performance in antibiotic degradation, including metal oxide-based systems with defect engineering and hollow architectures, bismuth-based semiconductors with narrow band gaps and heterojunction designs, silver-based plasmonic composites with enhanced light harvesting, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) featuring tunable porosity and hybrid interfaces, carbon-based materials such as g-C3N4 and biochar that facilitate charge transfer and adsorption, and emerging MXene–semiconductor hybrids exhibiting exceptional conductivity and interfacial activity. The photocatalytic performance of these nanomaterials is compared in terms of degradation efficiency, recyclability, and visible-light response to evaluate their suitability for antibiotic degradation. Beyond parent compound removal, we emphasize transformation products, mineralization, and post-treatment toxicity evolution as critical metrics for assessing true detoxification and environmental risk. In addition, the incorporation of artificial intelligence into photocatalyst design, mechanistic modeling, and process optimization is highlighted as a promising direction for accelerating material innovation and advancing toward scalable, safe, and sustainable photocatalytic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)
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13 pages, 1847 KB  
Article
Plasma-Enabled Pd/C Catalysts with Rich Carbon Defects for High-Performance Phenol Selective Hydrogenation
by Yu Zhang, Ying Xin, Lizheng Tang, Shihao Cui, Hongling Duan and Qingshan Zhao
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010048 - 29 Dec 2025
Viewed by 696
Abstract
The selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone is a pivotal reaction for producing nylon precursors. Conventional Pd/C catalysts, however, suffer from weak metal–support interactions, leading to size heterogeneity and agglomeration of Pd nanoparticles, which degrades their activity and stability. Herein, we report a [...] Read more.
The selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone is a pivotal reaction for producing nylon precursors. Conventional Pd/C catalysts, however, suffer from weak metal–support interactions, leading to size heterogeneity and agglomeration of Pd nanoparticles, which degrades their activity and stability. Herein, we report a facile argon plasma treatment to engineer rich defects on an activated carbon (AC) support, resulting in a highly dispersed and stable catalyst (denoted as PL-Pd@ACAr). Characterization results indicate that the abundant carbon defects in PL-Pd@ACAr enhance the anchoring of Pd precursors, ensure the uniform dispersion of Pd nanoparticles, and effectively modulate their electronic structure. Consequently, the plasma-enabled PL-Pd@ACAr catalyst achieves 99.9% phenol conversion with 97% selectivity to cyclohexanone at a mild temperature of 70 °C and maintains exceptional stability over six consecutive cycles. This work provides a robust and efficient strategy for the surface engineering of carbon supports to design high-performance hydrogenation catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Carbon-Based Nanomaterials as Green Catalysts, 2nd Edition)
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