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Nanomaterials, Volume 16, Issue 10 (May-2 2026) – 12 articles

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18 pages, 19996 KB  
Article
Optical and Structural Properties of Co2+-Doped CsPbI3 Nanocrystals Embedded in Borosilicate Glass
by Wilson A. Silva, Éder V. Guimarães, Klever A. S. Costa, Nataly S. Moura, José F. Condeles, Raquel A. Domingues and Ricardo S. Silva
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100580 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
Co2+-doped CsPbI3 nanocrystals (NCs) (CsPbI3:xCo, x = 0, 5, and 10 mol%) were synthesized in situ within a borosilicate glass matrix by the fusion method followed by controlled thermal treatment at 500 °C for 6–24 h. Transmission electron [...] Read more.
Co2+-doped CsPbI3 nanocrystals (NCs) (CsPbI3:xCo, x = 0, 5, and 10 mol%) were synthesized in situ within a borosilicate glass matrix by the fusion method followed by controlled thermal treatment at 500 °C for 6–24 h. Transmission electron microscopy images showed quasi-spherical NCs with mean diameters of 4.9–7.1 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy suggested cobalt incorporation within the nanocrystalline regions. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the exclusive stabilization of the cubic α-phase across all compositions, with systematic lattice contraction from a = 6.321 Å to a = 6.301 Å with increasing Co content, consistent with preferential B-site substitution of Pb2+ by Co2+. Transmittance measurements confirmed macroscopic optical transparency of all glass-NC composites after thermal treatment. The crystal field theory and Tanabe–Sugano analysis for d7 ions in tetrahedral (Td) symmetry yielded Δ = 5032 cm−1 and B = 725 cm−1 in the as-prepared state, evolving to Δ = 4428 cm−1 and B = 805 cm−1 after thermal treatment, confirming Td Co2+ coordination and significant metal–iodide covalency. CIE 1931 chromaticity analysis revealed tunable emission from deep-red coordinates to near-white-light regions, demonstrating potential for LED and single-material WLED phosphor applications. Long-term photoluminescence measurements demonstrated full preservation of α-phase excitonic emission after approximately 365 days under ambient conditions, establishing the robust phase stability of CsPbI3:xCo NCs embedded in borosilicate glass. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
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20 pages, 32463 KB  
Review
Advanced Development of Diverse Photovoltaic-Driven Water Electrolysis for Hydrogen Production: A Review on Coupling Mechanisms, Technological Evolution and Economic Analysis
by Yifei Yu, Suni Shi, Zhiyi Peng, Longlu Wang, Shiyan Wang and Chengbin Liu
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100579 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
In the context of global carbon neutrality, photovoltaic (PV)-coupled water electrolysis has emerged as a pivotal technological route for large-scale green hydrogen production. This review systematically explores the integration of diverse PV technologies (e.g., crystalline silicon, perovskite tandems, and concentrated PV) with various [...] Read more.
In the context of global carbon neutrality, photovoltaic (PV)-coupled water electrolysis has emerged as a pivotal technological route for large-scale green hydrogen production. This review systematically explores the integration of diverse PV technologies (e.g., crystalline silicon, perovskite tandems, and concentrated PV) with various electrolysis systems (such as AEL, PEMEL, and AEMEL). We analyze the coupling mechanisms across light–electricity–hydrogen multi-energy fields from three dimensions: PV spectral response matching, electrolyzer kinetic adaptation, and innovative system topologies. Furthermore, this paper highlights critical scientific challenges, including the mismatch between fluctuating PV output and steady-state electrolysis, lifecycle stability under extreme conditions, and the optimization of high-cost catalysts. By incorporating cutting-edge approaches like AI-driven predictions, digital twins, and photothermal synergies, we outline future trajectories for enhancing system efficiency and economic viability. Ultimately, this review provides theoretical guidance to advance the commercialization of diverse, stable, and low-cost PV-driven green hydrogen production systems. Full article
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17 pages, 1751 KB  
Article
Response Surface Analysis of Thermo-Hydraulic Performance of a Direct Absorption Solar Receiver Using Fe3O4 Nanofluid Under Concentrated Solar Irradiation
by Jeonggyun Ham, Hyemin Kim, Sang-Bum Ryu and Honghyun Cho
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100578 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
This study investigates the thermo-hydraulic performance of a spiral-channel direct absorption solar collector (DASC) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The objective of this study was to establish a design framework that balances thermal efficiency (ηth) and pressure drop ( [...] Read more.
This study investigates the thermo-hydraulic performance of a spiral-channel direct absorption solar collector (DASC) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The objective of this study was to establish a design framework that balances thermal efficiency (ηth) and pressure drop (ΔP) by resolving inherent trade-offs. The results indicate that geometric parameters primarily influence hydraulic resistance, while optical factors govern thermal capture. To identify a robust operating region, a feasible design window was established under the constraints of ηth  0.90 and P < 200 Pa. Analysis reveals that a minimum receiver height (Factor B) of 12.1 mm and a nanoparticle concentration (Factor A) of at least 0.052 wt% are required to satisfy the performance criteria. Within this identified space, an operating range of B = 18–24 mm and A = 0.06–0.08 wt% is recommended at fixed values of Factor C = 3 and Factor D = 0.59. This region-based approach provides a design foundation that respects thermodynamic limits while minimizing parasitic losses, offering practical guidelines for the optimization of spiral-channel DASC configurations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photothermal Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties and Applications)
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10 pages, 2286 KB  
Article
Nanoscale Room-Temperature Na Dynamics in Layered Ruthenates Na1RuO3 and Na1.5RuO3
by Mohammad Hussein Naseef Assadi
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100577 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
Understanding the atomic-scale ionic motion and transport in layered transition-metal oxides is essential for elucidating structural stability and electronic behaviour in complex systems. Here, we investigate nanoscale Na dynamics in Na1RuO3 and Na1.5RuO3 using room-temperature ab initiomolecular [...] Read more.
Understanding the atomic-scale ionic motion and transport in layered transition-metal oxides is essential for elucidating structural stability and electronic behaviour in complex systems. Here, we investigate nanoscale Na dynamics in Na1RuO3 and Na1.5RuO3 using room-temperature ab initiomolecular dynamics at the r2SCAN + U level. While Na mobility plays a key role in local coordination, its nanoscale mechanism remains nuanced and unexplored. Our simulations show that Na ions undergo pervasive rattling, with Na1.5RuO3 enabling exploration of larger volumes and exhibiting incipient migration compared to the more confined behaviour in Na1RuO3. In addition, oxygen’s contribution to redox capacity decreases from 43% to 24% with increasing Na content. These nanoscale insights demonstrate that tuning the local ionic environment governs charge compensation and dynamical response in ruthenate frameworks, with direct implications for the design of Na-ion battery cathodes. Full article
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20 pages, 3610 KB  
Article
Metal Oxide Doping Modulates the Performances of Copper Oxide Nanoparticular Biocides
by Klaudia Pepłowska, Jaana Huotari, Kinga Czechowska, Marianne Vitipon, Véronique Collin-Faure, Elisabeth Chartier-Garcia, Alicja Hryniszyn, Witold Kurylak, Jacek Mazur, Satu Salo, Elisabeth Darrouzet, Adriana Wrona and Thierry Rabilloud
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100576 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
Copper has been used as a biocide for more than one century, in various applications. However, as a biocide, copper, both metallic, as a salt or as copper oxide particles, is toxic not only to its intended targets, mainly bacteria and fungi, but [...] Read more.
Copper has been used as a biocide for more than one century, in various applications. However, as a biocide, copper, both metallic, as a salt or as copper oxide particles, is toxic not only to its intended targets, mainly bacteria and fungi, but also to all living cells. Because of this toxicity, it is desirable to use forms of copper that maximize the required biocidal activity while minimizing the amount of copper that will be released in the environment. Copper oxide nanoparticles are a good compromise for all these requirements. The high surface ratio allows for good reactivity and thus good biocidal activity, while the small amount of copper present in nanoparticles compared to microparticles allows for a limited environmental release. However, plain copper oxide nanoparticles still show significant cytotoxicity, thereby limiting their use. We, therefore, investigated if doping copper oxide nanoparticles with other metal oxide nanoparticles, namely zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, would alter the functional features of the resulting nanoparticles, hopefully increasing the biocidal activity vs. toxicity balance. We investigated biocidal activity by stringent tests using both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as target bacteria. In addition, we investigated toxicity on mammalian macrophages or keratinocytes cell lines, as well as on an insect hemocyte cell line. Doping with zinc oxide decreased the biocidal activity, while increasing toxicity, which was the opposite of our expectations. Doping with titanium dioxide decreased the biocidal activity, but also markedly decreased cytotoxicity, which is an interesting avenue to follow. In addition, we also checked that beyond toxicity, the copper oxide-based nanoparticles did not induce an inflammatory reaction, making them safer to use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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14 pages, 5022 KB  
Article
Defect-Engineered VO2 Films: From Abrupt Phase Transition to Continuous Infrared Modulation via High-Vacuum Annealing
by Lin Liu, Jinxiao Li, Lei Wu, Xiaoling Wu, Guoan Cheng and Ruiting Zheng
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100575 - 8 May 2026
Abstract
Vanadium dioxide (VO2) films have attracted extensive attention for their pronounced metal–insulator transition (MIT) and multifunctional responses, holding great promise for smart windows, infrared stealth, memristive devices, and advanced sensors. However, conventional approaches for tuning the transition temperature, such as elemental [...] Read more.
Vanadium dioxide (VO2) films have attracted extensive attention for their pronounced metal–insulator transition (MIT) and multifunctional responses, holding great promise for smart windows, infrared stealth, memristive devices, and advanced sensors. However, conventional approaches for tuning the transition temperature, such as elemental doping or heterostructure engineering, often suffer from complicated processing, impurity phases, and poor device uniformity. Here, we use a dopant-free, high-vacuum annealing (9 × 10−4 Pa, ≈9 × 10−6 mbar) strategy to regulate the intrinsic structural evolution of VO2 films via oxygen-vacancy engineering and to clarify its influence on electrical switching contrast and infrared emissivity modulation. As the annealing temperature increases under low oxygen partial pressure, oxygen vacancies gradually accumulate, converting V4+ to V3+ and driving the films through three distinct structural stages: low-temperature lattice expansion with preserved M1 framework, critical structural collapse at 550 °C, and high-temperature defect rearrangement with local recrystallization. Consequently, the electrical MIT temperature continuously decreases, but the switching ratio collapses at the critical point and only partially recovers after high-temperature reorganization, while the infrared emissivity response transitions from abrupt, phase-transition-dominated switching to a continuous, tunable modulation at elevated temperatures. Notably, the infrared response begins continuous tuning earlier (≈450 °C) than the collapse of electrical MIT, reflecting the different sensitivities of optical and electronic responses to local lattice defects. These results reveal the coupling among oxygen-vacancy evolution, structural stability, electrical contrast, and infrared modulation in compositionally simple VO2 films. Compared with conventional doping, this high-vacuum annealing strategy avoids impurity phases, preserves compositional simplicity, and provides a scalable defect-engineering route to design VO2-based devices with reconfigurable electrical and infrared response modes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
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14 pages, 1625 KB  
Article
Phytochemical-Loaded Biodegradable Nanoemulsions for Eradication of Fungal Biofilms
by Muhammad Aamir Hassan, Harini Chandrababu, Jungmi Park and Vincent M. Rotello
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100574 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
Fungal infections are an escalating health threat, especially in hard-to-treat biofilm-associated infections. Candida species are the most widespread drivers of wound biofilm and biomedical device-associated infections. In this study, biodegradable nanoemulsions (BNEs) were fabricated by encapsulating active components of three different essential oils—carvacrol [...] Read more.
Fungal infections are an escalating health threat, especially in hard-to-treat biofilm-associated infections. Candida species are the most widespread drivers of wound biofilm and biomedical device-associated infections. In this study, biodegradable nanoemulsions (BNEs) were fabricated by encapsulating active components of three different essential oils—carvacrol (C-BNE), geraniol (G-BNE), and eugenol (E-BNE)—in a polymeric scaffold with a biodegradable crosslinker. The antibiofilm efficacy of BNEs was assessed against 2-day-old biofilms of multiple Candida species. C-BNE showed maximum effectiveness against all fungal biofilms as compared to G-BNE and E-BNE. Confocal microscopy further demonstrated that C-BNE efficiently penetrated the biofilm and killed the fungal cells by compromising cell membrane integrity. Overall, this study highlights the potential of essential oil-loaded nanoemulsions against drug-resistant biofilm-associated fungal infections. Full article
28 pages, 18948 KB  
Review
Precise Probing of Interfaces at the Single-Molecule Scale
by Enyu Zhang, Zhiping Chen, Shuai Wang, Cong Zhao, Hongyu Ju, Yingze Sun and Chuancheng Jia
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100573 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
The macroscopic functionality of nanoscale systems is fundamentally governed by microscopic physicochemical processes at material interfaces. However, conventional ensemble-averaged characterization techniques often obscure these subtle interfacial nuances due to their inherent limitations in spatial and temporal resolution. This review examines how single-molecule electrical [...] Read more.
The macroscopic functionality of nanoscale systems is fundamentally governed by microscopic physicochemical processes at material interfaces. However, conventional ensemble-averaged characterization techniques often obscure these subtle interfacial nuances due to their inherent limitations in spatial and temporal resolution. This review examines how single-molecule electrical measurements overcome these constraints by acting as precise analytical probes that directly transduce interfacial events into quantifiable conductance signals. By summarizing recent advances, we demonstrate how this approach resolves key physical interfacial characteristics, including distinct bonding motifs, steric configurations, and electronic coupling. We further summarize the real-time chemical interrogation of solid–liquid boundaries, which enables the capture of covalent bond formation kinetics, the dissection of catalytic reaction mechanisms, and the tracking of dynamic ion adsorption and proton transfer. Collectively, these investigations reveal interfaces as active, dynamically responsive physicochemical environments rather than simple passive structural boundaries. Finally, we propose that when employed primarily as high-resolution diagnostic tools rather than standalone electronic components, single-molecule junctions bridge atomic-scale interfacial mechanisms with macroscopic material performance, thereby providing an essential mechanistic foundations for the rational design of functional nanointerfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry at Nanoscale)
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20 pages, 3042 KB  
Article
Green Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens: As-Synthesized Phase Formation and Thermal Evolution of Optical Properties
by Jorge L. Iriqui-Razcón, José L. De-la-Cruz-Estrella, Francisco Brown-Bojórquez, Hiram J. Higuera-Valenzuela, Pedro A. Hernández-Abril, Jesús A. Maldonado-Arriola and José A. Heredia-Cancino
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100572 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
This study reports a facile, phyto-mediated synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles utilizing the Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens extract. The high phenolic (1807.28 ± 57.38 µmol GAE/g) and flavonoid (33.17 ± 3.50 µmol QE/g) contents of the extract successfully induced the formation of the crystalline [...] Read more.
This study reports a facile, phyto-mediated synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles utilizing the Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens extract. The high phenolic (1807.28 ± 57.38 µmol GAE/g) and flavonoid (33.17 ± 3.50 µmol QE/g) contents of the extract successfully induced the formation of the crystalline hexagonal wurtzite phase under mild reaction conditions, circumventing the conventional requirement for the initial high-temperature calcination. The structural, morphological, and optical evolution of the nanoparticles was systematically evaluated from their as-synthesized state to the thermal annealing temperatures of 700 °C to 900 °C. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed an increase in crystallite size from 21.5 nm to 55.6 nm, while scanning electron microscopy revealed a corresponding growth in average particle size from 143.33 nm to 261.50 nm due to thermal sintering. Furthermore, FTIR and EDS verified the degradation of organic capping agents and a progressive stoichiometric refinement, with the high-temperature samples approaching theoretical elemental purity (18.22% normalized oxygen mass). Optical characterization demonstrated a red-shift in the band gap energy from 3.28 eV to 3.21 eV, alongside a significant increase in visible diffuse reflectance progressing from a baseline of 30–60% to values exceeding 95% upon the removal of the biochemical components. These findings validate the OBPE-mediated protocol as a sustainable, thermodynamically advantageous route for producing structurally and optically tunable ZnO nanomaterials for advanced applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
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14 pages, 8140 KB  
Article
Laser-Driven Reactive Sintering of Cu–Liquid Metal on Paper for Flexible Microwave Sensors
by Ruo-Zhou Li, Mengchen Xu, Yiming Zhong, Yuhong Xia, Dongyang Lu, Zehua Wang, Ke Qu, Ying Yu and Jing Yan
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100571 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
The expansion of paper-based and wearable microwave electronics demands conductors that are highly conductive, finely patterned, mechanically robust, and compatible with low-cost, biodegradable substrates. This study reports a laser-scribing strategy for high-performance copper–liquid metal (Cu–LM) conductors on paper based on laser sintering of [...] Read more.
The expansion of paper-based and wearable microwave electronics demands conductors that are highly conductive, finely patterned, mechanically robust, and compatible with low-cost, biodegradable substrates. This study reports a laser-scribing strategy for high-performance copper–liquid metal (Cu–LM) conductors on paper based on laser sintering of Cu–LM composite particles, with an auxiliary adhesive transfer step to facilitate integration on flexible substrates. Laser-induced reactive sintering creates a network wherein sintered liquid metal and CuGa2 acts as a conductive bridge, interconnecting the dispersed Cu particles. This provides efficient electron transport pathways, achieving a high conductivity of 4.2 × 106 S/m under optimal laser conditions, surpassing that of pure eutectic gallium–indium (EGaIn) alloys. The self-healing nature of LM enables exceptional mechanical flexibility and stable electrical performance under severe deformation. The utility of this platform is demonstrated by a miniaturized microwave liquid level sensor that provides multi-parameter water-level detection and sensor calibration. These results establish laser-scribed Cu–LM on paper as a low-cost and disposable option for high-performance microwave sensors and flexible wireless electronics. Full article
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15 pages, 9513 KB  
Article
Structure Inhomogeneity of Gold Nanoparticles and Its Effect on H2 Dissociative Chemisorption
by Andrey K. Gatin, Sergey Yu. Sarvadii, Polina K. Ignat’eva, Ekaterina I. Rudenko, Maxim V. Grishin, Dinara Tastaibek, Denis A. Yavsin and Sergey A. Gurevich
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100570 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
Significant differences in hydrogen adsorption on amorphous and crystalline gold nanoparticles deposited on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) were revealed. Crystalline nanoparticles were synthesized via the impregnation–precipitation method followed by annealing at 700 K, whereas amorphous ones were obtained using the laser electrodispersion [...] Read more.
Significant differences in hydrogen adsorption on amorphous and crystalline gold nanoparticles deposited on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) were revealed. Crystalline nanoparticles were synthesized via the impregnation–precipitation method followed by annealing at 700 K, whereas amorphous ones were obtained using the laser electrodispersion method. The morphology and electronic structure of single nanoparticles were investigated with high spatial resolution using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) in ultra-high vacuum both before and after exposure to molecular hydrogen at doses of 400–6000 L. Experiments performed at room temperature showed that the surface coverage by the adsorbate in both cases begins at the Au-HOPG interface, spreads towards the center of the particle, and corresponds to the island growth model. However, amorphous nanoparticles have fewer growth sites at the periphery compared to crystalline ones. The local electronic structure of amorphous nanoparticles is more inhomogeneous compared to crystalline ones, demonstrating variation across different points on the nanoparticle surface. It was shown that dissociative chemisorption of hydrogen takes place on amorphous gold nanoparticles with a size of 4–6 nm. Chemisorption is completely inhibited when the nanoparticle size is reduced to 2 nm or less. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Regulation and Performance Assessment of Nanocatalysts)
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11 pages, 7494 KB  
Article
Wafer-Scale Electrical Characterization of Al/AlxOy/Al Tunnel Junctions for Process Monitoring at Room Temperature
by Simon Johann Klaus Lang, Ignaz Eisele, Johannes Weber, Alexandra Schewski, Emir Music, Alwin Maiwald, Martin Hahn, Daniela Zahn, Zhen Luo, Lars Nebrich, Benedikt Schoof, Thomas Mayer, Leonhard Sturm-Rogon, Wilfried Lerch, Rui Nuno Pereira and Christoph Kutter
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(10), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16100569 - 7 May 2026
Abstract
Josephson junctions are key elements in superconducting qubits. Their efficient wafer-scale characterization is crucial for process control and optimization, motivating analysis approaches that extend beyond conventional cryogenic measurements. In this work, we demonstrate that room temperature (RT) capacitance and current–voltage measurements, combined with [...] Read more.
Josephson junctions are key elements in superconducting qubits. Their efficient wafer-scale characterization is crucial for process control and optimization, motivating analysis approaches that extend beyond conventional cryogenic measurements. In this work, we demonstrate that room temperature (RT) capacitance and current–voltage measurements, combined with appropriate data analysis, enable extraction of relevant junction parameters such as oxide thickness, tunnel coefficient, and interfacial defect density. Furthermore, different charge transport mechanisms can be identified from detailed current–voltage analysis. We evaluate our characterization technique using tunnel junctions fabricated on 200 mm wafers in a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible subtractive process. The results show a homogeneous average oxide thickness across the wafer with a variation below 3%. A dependence of the tunnel coefficient on oxide thickness indicates a stoichiometry gradient within the oxide. Additionally, low interfacial defect densities in the range of 70–5000 defects/cm2 are observed in our junctions, increasing with decreasing oxide thickness, suggesting that wet etching used for thickness control introduces interfacial trap states. Our study highlights the importance of advanced RT characterization for extracting tunnel junction parameters on the wafer scale, enabling effective process monitoring and optimization in industrial superconducting qubit manufacturing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Manufacturing of Nanomaterials)
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