Journal Description
Applied Nano
Applied Nano
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of application of nanoscience and nanotechnology, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2022).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Applied Nano is a companion journal of Nanomaterials.
Latest Articles
Electrochemical Synthesis and Application of Ge-Sn-O Nanostructures as Anodes of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 178-190; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020010 - 07 Jun 2023
Abstract
►
Show Figures
This work demonstrates the possibility of electrochemical formation of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures from aqueous solutions containing germanium dioxide and tin (II) chloride at room temperature without prior deposition of fusible metal particles. This method does not require complex technological equipment, expensive and toxic germanium
[...] Read more.
This work demonstrates the possibility of electrochemical formation of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures from aqueous solutions containing germanium dioxide and tin (II) chloride at room temperature without prior deposition of fusible metal particles. This method does not require complex technological equipment, expensive and toxic germanium precursors, or binding additives. These advantages will make it possible to obtain such structures on an industrial scale (e.g., using roll-to-roll technology). The structural properties and composition of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The samples obtained represent a filamentary structure with a diameter of about 10 nm. Electrochemical studies of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures were studied by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic cycling. Studies of the processes of lithium-ion insertion/extraction showed that the obtained structures have a practical discharge capacity at the first cycle ~625 mAh/g (specific capacity ca. 625 mAh/g). However, the discharge capacity by cycle 30 was no more than 40% of the initial capacity. The obtained results would benefit the further design of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures formed by simple electrochemical deposition.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Production and Properties of Quercetin-Loaded Liposomes and Their Influence on the Properties of Galactomannan-Based Films
by
, , , , , , and
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 159-177; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020009 - 31 May 2023
Abstract
The objective of this work was to prepare different concentrations of liposomes based on lecithin containing quercetin, and evaluate their effect on the properties of galactomannan films obtained from Cassia grandis seeds. Quercetin-loaded lecithin liposomes (QT-LL) were obtained by the ethanol injection method
[...] Read more.
The objective of this work was to prepare different concentrations of liposomes based on lecithin containing quercetin, and evaluate their effect on the properties of galactomannan films obtained from Cassia grandis seeds. Quercetin-loaded lecithin liposomes (QT-LL) were obtained by the ethanol injection method by incorporating quercetin in different concentrations in a previously prepared suspension of lecithin liposomes in water. Following characterization of QT-LLs by zeta potential and dynamic light scattering, QT-LL with 75 µg quercetin/mL suspension was incorporated at different concentrations in galactomannan films. The films obtained were characterized for color, solubility, moisture content (MC), water vapor permeability (WVP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The size of lecithin liposomes with no quercetin was statistically than those containing quercetin above 50 µg/mL. All the QT-LLs presented a low polydispersity index, even considering their significant differences and similar values for zeta potential. The films displayed a rough surface and the galactomannan structure was confirmed by FTIR. Additionally, the amorphous nature of the polysaccharide was observed by XRD. The films were luminous, with a predominant yellow tendency and low opacity. The incorporation of QT-LL in galactomannan films did not lead to statistical differences for solubility and MC, while significant differences were observed for WVP. Galactomannan films were shown to be a promising structure for the incorporation of lecithin liposomes loaded with quercetin, pointing at promising applications for different applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Preparation and Application of Polymer Nanocomposites)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Corrosion-Resisting Nanocarbon Nanocomposites for Aerospace Application: An Up-to-Date Account
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 138-158; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020008 - 12 May 2023
Abstract
The design and necessity of corrosion-resisting nanocarbon nanocomposites have been investigated for cutting-edge aerospace applications. In this regard, nanocarbon nanofillers, especially carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanodiamond, etc. have been used to fill in various polymeric matrices (thermosets, thermoplastics, and conducting polymers) to develop anti-rusting
[...] Read more.
The design and necessity of corrosion-resisting nanocarbon nanocomposites have been investigated for cutting-edge aerospace applications. In this regard, nanocarbon nanofillers, especially carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanodiamond, etc. have been used to fill in various polymeric matrices (thermosets, thermoplastics, and conducting polymers) to develop anti-rusting space-related nanocomposites. This review fundamentally emphases the design, anti-corrosion properties, and application of polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposites for the space sector. An electron-conducting network is created in the polymers with nanocarbon dispersion to assist in charge transportation, and thus in the polymers’ corrosion resistance features. The corrosion resistance mechanism depends upon the formation of tortuous diffusion pathways due to nanofiller arrangement in the matrices. Moreover, matrix–nanofiller interactions and interface formation play an important role in enhancing the corrosion protection properties. The anticorrosion nanocomposites were tested for their adhesion, contact angle, and impedance properties, and NaCl tests and scratch tests were carried out. Among the polymers, epoxy was found to be superior corrosion-resisting polymer, relative to the thermoplastic polymers in these nanocomposites. Among the carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanodiamond, the carbon nanotube with a loading of up to 7 wt.% in the epoxy matrix was desirable for corrosion resistance. On the other hand, graphene contents of up to 1 wt.% and nanodiamond contents of 0.2–0.4 wt.% were desirable to enhance the corrosion resistance of the epoxy matrix. The impedance, anticorrosion, and adhesion properties of epoxy nanocomposites were found to be better than those of the thermoplastic materials. Despite the success of nanocarbon nanocomposites in aerospace applications, thorough research efforts are still needed to design high-performance anti-rusting materials to completely replace the use of metal components in the aerospace industry.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Growth of New, Optically Active, Semi-Organic Single Crystals Glycine-Copper Sulphate Doped by Silver Nanoparticles
by
, , , , , and
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 115-137; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020007 - 18 Apr 2023
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to modify all physicochemical properties of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals, such as crystal habits, molar mass, thermal stability, optical activity, and electrical properties. The novelty of this study is growth of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals doped by
[...] Read more.
The purpose of this study is to modify all physicochemical properties of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals, such as crystal habits, molar mass, thermal stability, optical activity, and electrical properties. The novelty of this study is growth of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals doped by a low concentration of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) that improved both crystal habits and physicochemical properties. The originality of this work is that trace amounts of SNPs largely increased the crystal size. Crystals have molar stoichiometric formula [glycine]0.95, [CuSO4·5H2O]0.05 in the absence and presence of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in different concentrations: 10 ppm, 20 ppm, and 30 ppm. The crystals’ names and abbreviations are: glycine–copper sulphate (GCS), glycine–copper sulphate doped by 10 ppm SNPs (GCSN1), glycine–copper sulphate doped by 20 ppm SNPs (GCSN2), and glycine–copper sulphate doped by 30 ppm SNPs (GCSN3). Dopant silver nanoparticles increased: crystallinity reflecting purity, transparency to UV-Vis. electromagnetic radiation, thermal stability, and melting point of glycine–copper sulphate single crystal. GCSN3 is a super conductor. High thermal conductivity of crystals ranging from 1.1 W·min−1·K−1 to 1.6 W·min−1·K−1 enabled attenuation of electromagnetic radiation and rapid heat dissipation due to good dielectric and polar properties. On rising temperature, AC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of perfect crystal GCSN3 increased confirmed attenuation of thermal infrared radiation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Electronic and Optical Properties of Nanostructures)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Potential Applications of Core-Shell Nanoparticles in Construction Industry Revisited
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 75-114; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020006 - 07 Apr 2023
Abstract
The demand of high performance and environmentally sustainable construction materials is ever-increasing in the construction industry worldwide. The rapid growth of nanotechnology and diverse nanomaterials’ accessibility has provided an impulse for the uses of smart construction components like nano-alumina, nano-silica, nano-kaolin, nano-titanium, and
[...] Read more.
The demand of high performance and environmentally sustainable construction materials is ever-increasing in the construction industry worldwide. The rapid growth of nanotechnology and diverse nanomaterials’ accessibility has provided an impulse for the uses of smart construction components like nano-alumina, nano-silica, nano-kaolin, nano-titanium, and so forth Amongst various nanostructures, the core-shell nanoparticles (NPs) have received much interests for wide applications in the field of phase change materials, energy storage, high performance pigments, coating agents, self-cleaning and self-healing systems, etc., due to their distinct properties. Through the fine-tuning of the shells and cores of NPS, various types of functional materials with tailored properties can be achieved, indicating their great potential for the construction applications. In this perception, this paper overviewed the past, present and future of core-shell NPs-based materials that are viable for the construction sectors. In addition, several other applications of the core-shell NPs in the construction industries are emphasized and discussed. Considerable benefits of the core-shell NPs for pigments, phase change components, polymer composites, and self-cleaning glasses with enhanced properties are also underlined. Effect of high performance core-shell NPs type, size and content on the construction materials sustainability are highlighted.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Core-Shell Nanostructures for Functional Applications)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Surfactant and Metal Ions on the Stability and Rheological Properties of Nanoemulsions Loaded with Gardenia Yellow Pigment
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 61-74; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020005 - 04 Apr 2023
Abstract
The present work reports the preparation of gardenia yellow pigment containing paraffin oil nanoemulsions stabilized by Span80 and Tween80. The preparation of the required nanoemulsions was optimized by testing different conditions, such as varying the hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB), the emulsifier concentration
[...] Read more.
The present work reports the preparation of gardenia yellow pigment containing paraffin oil nanoemulsions stabilized by Span80 and Tween80. The preparation of the required nanoemulsions was optimized by testing different conditions, such as varying the hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB), the emulsifier concentration (EC), the oil–water ratio (OWR), and the temperature (T), as determined by the average droplet diameter (ADD) and polydispersity index (PDI). Our results indicated that a minimum ADD of 65.9 nm and PDI of 0.116 were obtained at an optimum HLB value of 6.0, EC of 10% (w/w), OWR of 2:1, and T of 40 °C. Both the steady-state and dynamic rheological parameters were further investigated, revealing that the emulsions exhibited pseudoplastic behaviors. The long-term stabilities of the nanoemulsions after the addition of inorganic salts were monitored by observing their visual appearances. It was found that the emulsions containing pure water or 0.1 M CaCl2 and AlCl3 became slightly separated, while the emulsions containing 0.1 M KCl and NaCl showed no separation after 30 days of storage at room T. This difference among different salts could be related to the number of valence electrons of their cations. The spatial electrostatic effects of the monovalent cationic (KCl and NaCl) and the nonionic surfactants were greater than the delamination/sedimentation forces of the system, which was better than the salt based on the cations with valences greater than one (CaCl2 and AlCl3). In conclusion, the present work illustrated the formation, rheological properties, and stability of water containing gardenia yellow pigment in paraffin oil nanoemulsions, which can be of great significance for the application of gardenia-yellow-pigment-based formulations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Wild-Type and SOD1-G93A SH-SY5Y under Oxidative Stress: EVs Characterization and Topographical Distribution of Budding Vesicles
by
, , , , , , , and
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(1), 45-60; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4010004 - 15 Mar 2023
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important mediators of intercellular communication in several physiopathological conditions. Oxidative stress alters EVs release and cargo composition depending on the cell type and stimulus. Recently, most of the EVs studies have focused on the characterization of their cargo, rather
[...] Read more.
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important mediators of intercellular communication in several physiopathological conditions. Oxidative stress alters EVs release and cargo composition depending on the cell type and stimulus. Recently, most of the EVs studies have focused on the characterization of their cargo, rather than on the morphological features (i.e., size distribution, shape, and localization on the cell surface). Due to their high heterogeneity, to fully characterize EVs both the functional and morphological characterization are required. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), introduced for cell morphological studies at the nanoscale, represents a promising method to characterize in detail EVs morphology, dynamics along the cell surface, and its variations reflecting the cell physiological status. In the present study, untreated or H2O2-treated wild-type and SOD1-G93A SH-SY5Y cells have been compared performing a transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and AFM morpho-quantitative analysis of budding and released vesicles. Intriguingly, our analysis revealed a differential EVs profiling, with an opposite behavior and implying different cell areas between WT and SOD1-G93A cells, on both physiological conditions and after H2O2 exposure. Our results empower the relationship between the morphological features and functional role, further proving the efficacy of EM/AFM in giving an overview of the cell physiology related to EVs trafficking.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
Thin Film Deposition of MoP, a Topological Semimetal
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(1), 38-44; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4010003 - 24 Feb 2023
Abstract
MoP is a topological semimetal which has drawn attention due to its unique electrical and optical properties resulting from massless electrons. In order to utilize these properties for practical applications, it is necessary to develop a technique to produce high-quality, large-scale thin films
[...] Read more.
MoP is a topological semimetal which has drawn attention due to its unique electrical and optical properties resulting from massless electrons. In order to utilize these properties for practical applications, it is necessary to develop a technique to produce high-quality, large-scale thin films of this 2D material. We report below our initial results of growth of MoP thin films using atomic layer deposition (ALD), where the film grows layer-by-layer. These films were grown on 5 cm × 5 cm silicon oxide coated Si wafers. Resistivity versus temperature measurements show that these films are metallic and includes a partial superconducting phase. The magnetoresistances of both the longitudinal and Hall currents measured at 1.8 K show a strong effect of the magnetic field on the resistivity. Density functional theory was employed to determine the lattice constants of the MoP crystal. These parameters were in good agreement with those obtained from the Rietveld fit to the XRD spectrum of the films.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Polyacrylonitrile-Derived Carbon Nanocoating for Long-Life High-Power Phosphate Electrodes
by
, , , and
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(1), 25-37; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4010002 - 01 Feb 2023
Abstract
Carbon-coating proved an efficient and reliable strategy to increase the power capabilities and lifetime of phosphate-based positive electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. In this work, we provide a systematic study on the influence of polyacrylonitrile-(PAN)-derived carbon coating on electrochemical properties of the nanosized
[...] Read more.
Carbon-coating proved an efficient and reliable strategy to increase the power capabilities and lifetime of phosphate-based positive electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. In this work, we provide a systematic study on the influence of polyacrylonitrile-(PAN)-derived carbon coating on electrochemical properties of the nanosized Li-rich Li1+δ(Fe0.5Mn0.5)1−δPO4 (Li-rich LFMP) cathode material, as well as the characterization of carbon-coated composites by means of Raman spectroscopy for the determination of carbon graphitization degree, DF-STEM and STEM-EELS for the estimation of carbon layer thickness, uniformity and compositional homogeneity of the conductive layer respectively, and impedance spectroscopy for the determination of charge transfer resistances of the resulted composite electrodes in Li-based cells. Using PAN as a carbon coating precursor enables significantly enhancing the cycling stability of Li-rich LFMP/C compared to those conventionally obtained with the glucose precursor: up to 40% at high current loads of 5–10C retaining about 78 ± 2% of capacity after 1000 cycles. Varying the PAN-derived carbon content in the composites allows controlling the electrochemical response of the material triggering either a high-capacity or a high-power performance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessReview
Synthesis and Characterization of Various Bimetallic Nanoparticles and Their Application
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(1), 1-24; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4010001 - 03 Jan 2023
Abstract
Bimetallic nanoparticles are a complex nanoscale combination of two metal constituents. The superior properties of bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) compared with monometallic nanoparticles have attracted much attention from both scientific and technological perspectives. In recent years, many fabrication techniques have been proposed, and the
[...] Read more.
Bimetallic nanoparticles are a complex nanoscale combination of two metal constituents. The superior properties of bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) compared with monometallic nanoparticles have attracted much attention from both scientific and technological perspectives. In recent years, many fabrication techniques have been proposed, and the detailed characterization of bimetallic nanoparticles has been made possible by the rapid advancement of nanomaterial analysis techniques. Metallic nanoparticles can be classified according to their origin, size, and structure, and their synthesis process can be physical, chemical, or biological. Bimetallic nanoparticles are more attractive than metal nanoparticles due to their unique mixing patterns and synergistic effects of two metal nanoparticles forming the bimetal. In this review, the different bimetallic synthesis methods and various characterization techniques are discussed. The paper will also discuss various applications for bimetallic nanoparticles. Different characterization techniques for bimetallic nanoparticles include X-ray diffraction (XRD) to investigate crystallinity and phase composition; the morphology and composition analysis of nanoparticles are studied using a scanning electron microscope fitted with an energy-dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDX); transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–vis spectrum, FTIR, and TGA analysis are also among the characterization tools used. Finally, we report on the various applications of BNPs, which include antimicrobial activity, pollutant removal, and wastewater application.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Papers for Applied Nano Science and Technology)
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Complementary Photothermal Heating Effects Observed between Gold Nanorods and Conjugated Infrared-Absorbing Dye Molecules
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(4), 233-244; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3040016 - 05 Dec 2022
Abstract
Due to their biocompatibility, ease of surface modification, and heating capabilities, gold nanomaterials are considered excellent candidates for the advancement of photothermal therapy techniques and related applications in cancer treatment. Various morphologies of gold nanomaterials have been shown to heat when exposed to
[...] Read more.
Due to their biocompatibility, ease of surface modification, and heating capabilities, gold nanomaterials are considered excellent candidates for the advancement of photothermal therapy techniques and related applications in cancer treatment. Various morphologies of gold nanomaterials have been shown to heat when exposed to high-powered laser irradiation, especially that which is from the near-infrared (NIR) region. While these lasers work well and are effective, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) may offer a safe and low-powered alternative to these high energy lasers. We investigated the heating capability of NIR-dye conjugated gold nanorods when exposed to an 808 nm LED light source using polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated gold nanorods as the control. In this way, since the rods exhibited a surface plasmon resonance peak between 795 and 825 nm for both the PEG-coated rods and the dye-conjugated rods, which are fairly close to the frequency of the 530 mW, 850 nm LED light source, we were able to reveal the heating effect of the dye modification. While both morphologies heat when irradiated with the LED light, we demonstrated that the addition of an NIR dye increases the rate of heating and cooling, compared to the PEGylated counterpart. To our knowledge, the complementary effect given by the conjugated NIR-dye has not been previously reported in the literature. The targeting abilities of the NIR-dye combined with the increased heating rate of the modified particles used in this proof-of-concept work suggests that these particles may be exceptional candidates for theranostic applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Emerging Trends in Curcumin Embedded Electrospun Nanofibers for Impaired Diabetic Wound Healing
by
, , , , and
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(4), 202-232; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3040015 - 17 Nov 2022
Cited by 2
Abstract
Chronic wounds impose a significant burden on individuals and healthcare systems all over the world. Through clinical and preclinical investigations, inflammation and oxidative damage have been established as the primary causes of chronic wounds. These skin sores are easily exposed to microorganisms, which
[...] Read more.
Chronic wounds impose a significant burden on individuals and healthcare systems all over the world. Through clinical and preclinical investigations, inflammation and oxidative damage have been established as the primary causes of chronic wounds. These skin sores are easily exposed to microorganisms, which in turn cause inflammation and hinder the healing process. Additionally, microorganisms may cause an infection that prevents collagen production and reepithelialization. Curcumin’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infectious characteristics, among others, have been identified as useful for diabetic wound healing management. However, curcumin has a few disadvantages, such as limited bioavailability, pH-dependent instability, water insolubility, slow cell absorption, and fast intracellular metabolism. These constraints necessitates the development of a suitable transporter to improve curcumin’s stability, bioavailability, therapeutic efficacy, and solubility. In recent years, Electrospun nanofiber mats have been an excellent choice for drug delivery because of their numerous advantages and inherent properties. Electrospun nanofibers have shown considerable promise as wound dressing materials. This review highlights the potential properties and recent advancements in using curcumin-loaded nanofibers for diabetic wound healing.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Papers for Applied Nano Science and Technology)
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Processed Twice Using 8M Urea Exhibit Superior Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity to Commercial Chemically Synthesized Counterparts
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(4), 187-201; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3040014 - 31 Oct 2022
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Biogenic silver nanoparticles (b-AgNPs) were produced extracellularly using a cell lysate of genetically modified Escherichia coli and subdivided into three groups. Each group received a different treatment to determine which one best removed residual cell lysate material. The first group was treated twice
[...] Read more.
Biogenic silver nanoparticles (b-AgNPs) were produced extracellularly using a cell lysate of genetically modified Escherichia coli and subdivided into three groups. Each group received a different treatment to determine which one best removed residual cell lysate material. The first group was treated twice using only water (water ×2), the second using 8M urea once (8M urea ×1), and the third using 8M urea twice (8M urea ×2). Subsequently, each group was assessed for its ability to inhibit the growth of six bacterial and two fungal pathogens. Testing was accomplished using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Commercially produced c-AgNPs were included for comparison. In all cases, the b-AgNPs (8M urea ×2) demonstrated the greatest inhibition of microbe growth. Conversely, the commercial AgNPs failed to show any growth inhibition at 10 µg/mL the highest concentration tested. The greater antibacterial activity of the b-AgNPs (8M urea ×2) over both b-AgNPs (8M urea ×1) and b-AgNPs (water ×2) is thought to be due to a larger degree of biofunctionalization (coating) occurring during the two sequential 8M urea treatments.
Full article

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Zeolites as Carriers of Nano-Fertilizers: From Structures and Principles to Prospects and Challenges
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(3), 163-186; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3030013 - 19 Sep 2022
Cited by 4
Abstract
The world is facing immense challenges in terms of food security, due to the combined impacts of the ever-increasing population and the adversity of climate change. In an attempt to counteract these factors, smart nutrient delivery systems, including nano-fertilizers, additives, and material coatings,
[...] Read more.
The world is facing immense challenges in terms of food security, due to the combined impacts of the ever-increasing population and the adversity of climate change. In an attempt to counteract these factors, smart nutrient delivery systems, including nano-fertilizers, additives, and material coatings, have been introduced to increase food productivity to meet the growing food demand. Use of nanocarriers in agro-practices for sustainable farming contributes to achieving up to 75% nutrient delivery for a prolonged period to maintain nutrient availability in soil for plants in adverse soil conditions. In this context, sieve-like zeolites and the diversity in their structural morphologies have attracted increasing interest over recent years. Engineered nano-porous zeolites, also called aluminosilicates, are defined based on the presence of micro- (<2 nm), meso- (2–50 nm), and macropores (>50 nm), which can be employed as carriers of fertilizers due to their enhanced ion-exchange properties and adsorption capabilities. In this study, we provide a detailed overview of the production and optimization of hierarchical zeolite structures within the size range from micro- to nanometers, as well as the various top-down and bottom-up approaches which have been used to synthesize zeolites with a large surface area, tunable pore size, and high thermal stability, which make them an excellent candidate to be used in agronomy. The delivery of pesticides, insecticides, and fertilizers by loading them into nano-zeolites to manage the crop production without disrupting the soil health is discussed, as well as future perspectives of zeolites in the perpetual maintenance of soil productivity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Papers for Applied Nano Science and Technology)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessEditorial
Nanocomposites with Different Types of Nanofillers and Advanced Properties for Several Applications
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(3), 160-162; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3030012 - 08 Sep 2022
Cited by 1
Abstract
Polymer nanocomposites are an emerging technological field offering high-performance materials with unique and innovative properties, ideal for numerous advanced applications [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Nanocomposites with Different Types of Nanofillers and Advanced Properties for Several Applications)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Catalase Like-Activity of Metal NPs–Enzyme Biohybrids
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(3), 149-159; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3030011 - 07 Aug 2022
Cited by 3
Abstract
In this work, an efficient synthesis of bionanohybrids as artificial metalloenzymes (Cu, Pd, Ag, Mn) based on the application of an enzyme as a scaffold was described. Here we evaluated the effect of changing the metal, pH of the medium, and the amount
[...] Read more.
In this work, an efficient synthesis of bionanohybrids as artificial metalloenzymes (Cu, Pd, Ag, Mn) based on the application of an enzyme as a scaffold was described. Here we evaluated the effect of changing the metal, pH of the medium, and the amount of enzyme in the synthesis of these artificial metalloenzymes, where changes in the metal species and the size of the nanoparticles occur. These nanozymes were applied in the degradation of hydrogen peroxide for their evaluation as mimetics of catalase activity, the best being the [email protected]2O, which presented MnO2 nanostructures, with three-fold improved activity compared to Cu2O species, [email protected], and free catalase.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
Formation of Stable Cruciform Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles from Cannabis indica Leaves
by
and
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(3), 143-148; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3030010 - 13 Jul 2022
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Gold nanoparticles have been increasingly used in several electronic, material fabrication, and biomedical applications. Several methods have been reported to prepare gold nanoparticles of various shapes and sizes with different photophysical properties. Although useful to prepare gold nanoparticles, most of the methods are
[...] Read more.
Gold nanoparticles have been increasingly used in several electronic, material fabrication, and biomedical applications. Several methods have been reported to prepare gold nanoparticles of various shapes and sizes with different photophysical properties. Although useful to prepare gold nanoparticles, most of the methods are not stable enough, which leads to the degradation of the nanoparticles, if they are stored at room temperatures (up to 30 °C) for a few days. In this paper, we report a novel and environmentally friendly method to synthesize self-assembled gold nanoparticles in cruciform shapes by using leaf extract of Cannabis indica as a reducing agent without the aid of any polymers or additional chemicals. The nanoparticles are found to be stable for more than a month (45 days) when stored at room temperature (up to 30 °C). They were able to form stable conjugates with bovine α-lactalbumin protein that may possess anti-cancerous properties.
Full article

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Montmorillonite Nanoclay and Formulation with Satureja montana Essential Oil as a Tool to Alleviate Xanthomonas euvesicatoria Load on Solanum lycopersicum
by
, , , , , , , and
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(3), 126-142; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3030009 - 04 Jul 2022
Cited by 1
Abstract
Bacterial spot (BS) of tomato (S. lycopersicum), caused by Xanthomonas spp., namely X. euvesicatoria (Xeu), is one of the major threats for the production of this crop worldwide. Developing new biocontrol solutions against this disease will allow disease management strategies to
[...] Read more.
Bacterial spot (BS) of tomato (S. lycopersicum), caused by Xanthomonas spp., namely X. euvesicatoria (Xeu), is one of the major threats for the production of this crop worldwide. Developing new biocontrol solutions against this disease will allow disease management strategies to be less based on Cu compounds. Nanoclays, such as montmorillonite (NMT), have been under investigation for their antimicrobial activity, or as delivery tools/stabilizers for organic compounds, such as essential oils (EOs), that also possess antimicrobial activity against plant pathogens. This work aims to assess how the application of NMT alone or incorporating S. montana EO on Xeu-infected hosts (var. Oxheart) affects the shoots’ redox status and antioxidant defense mechanisms. In vitro shoots, grown on Murashige and Skoog medium, were divided in two groups, Xeu-infected and uninfected (control) shoots. Shoots of each group were then treated with NMT, S. montana EO, EO-NMT. Results show that the NMT was able to reduce Xeu bacterial amount, while reducing ROS production and keeping the transcript levels of the defense-related genes close to those of the control. When applied to uninfected shoots, the treatments triggered the production of ROS and upregulated the phenylpropanoid and hormone pathway, which suggest that they act as defense elicitors. Globally, the results indicate that NMT has the potential to integrate BS management strategies, due to its antimicrobial activity, and that EO and/or nanoclays could be successfully employed as new disease preventive strategies, since they enhance the healthy shoots’ defense, thus potentially limiting the pathogen establishment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Challenges of Nanotechnology in Food)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Empirical Studies on Effect of Low-Level Laser Treatment on Glioblastoma Multiforme in Combination with Ag-PMMA-PAA Nanoparticles: Paired Red Region Optical-Property Treatment Platform
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(2), 112-125; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3020008 - 13 Jun 2022
Cited by 1
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive, invasive, fatal primary heterogenic brain tumor. New treatments have not significantly improved the dismal survival rate. Low-level laser therapy reports indicate different tumor cells respond distinctly to low-level laser therapy based on laser dose (J/cm2) or
[...] Read more.
Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive, invasive, fatal primary heterogenic brain tumor. New treatments have not significantly improved the dismal survival rate. Low-level laser therapy reports indicate different tumor cells respond distinctly to low-level laser therapy based on laser dose (J/cm2) or with nanotherapeutics. We investigated the effects of pairing two optical property-driven treatment agents—a low-level laser on glioblastoma multiforme (U251) using an He-Ne laser (632.8 nm) with 18.8 nm spherical Ag-PMMA-PAA nanoparticles, with an absorbance peak at 400 nm with a broad shoulder to 700 nm. The He-Ne treatment parameters were power (14.87 ± 0.3 mW), beam diameter (0.68 cm), and exposure time 5 min leading to a 12.28 J/cm2 dose. A dose of 12.28 J/cm2 was applied to Ag-PMMA-PAA nanoparticle concentrations (110–225 μM). An amount of 110 μM Ag-PMMA-PAA nanoparticles combined with an He-Ne dose at 18 h yielded 23% U251 death compared to He-Ne alone which yielded 8% U251 death. A 225 μM Ag-PMMA-PAA nanoparticle He-Ne combination resulted in an earlier, more significant, U251 death of 38% at 6 h compared to 30% with 225 μM alone at 18 h. Both treatment agents possess inherent physical and functional properties capable of redesign to enhance the observed cell death effects. Our results provide evidence supporting next-step studies to test “the redesign hypothesis” that these paired optical-driven agents provide a tunable platform that can generate significant U251 cell death increase.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Long-Term Plasmonic Stability of Copper Nanoparticles Produced by Gas-Phase Aggregation Method Followed by UV-Ozone Treatment
Appl. Nano 2022, 3(2), 102-111; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano3020007 - 03 May 2022
Cited by 1
Abstract
Coinage metal nanoparticles (NPs) are well-known for the phenomenon of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), which is widely utilized for enhanced sensing and detection. LSPR stability over time is an important issue for the practical application of nanoparticle matrices. Some metals, and copper
[...] Read more.
Coinage metal nanoparticles (NPs) are well-known for the phenomenon of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), which is widely utilized for enhanced sensing and detection. LSPR stability over time is an important issue for the practical application of nanoparticle matrices. Some metals, and copper among those, are chemically reactive in ambient atmospheric conditions that leads to degradation of plasmonic functionality. This work reports on the formation of Cu NP matrices utilizing magnetron-sputtering gas-phase aggregation, size-selection and soft-landing on a substrate. This method provides monocrystalline NPs with high purity, thus, improving chemical inertness towards ambient gases, for example, oxygen. Additionally, a simple approach of UV-ozone treatment is shown to form an oxide shell protecting the metallic core against reactions with environmental species and stabilizing the plasmonic properties for a period of over 150 days. The suggested methodology is promising to improve the competitiveness of Cu nano-matrices with those of Au and Ag in plasmonic sensing and detection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Highly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Applied Nano, Biosensors, Chemosensors, Materials, Sensors
Nanomaterial Based Gas Sensors for Environmental Air Pollutant Detection
Topic Editors: Tesfalem Welearegay, Radu IonescuDeadline: 30 September 2023
Topic in
Applied Nano, Applied Sciences, Materials, Nanomaterials, Sensors
Electronic and Optical Properties of Nanostructures
Topic Editors: Khaled Saoud, Sami Rtimi, Fadwa El-MellouhiDeadline: 31 October 2023
Topic in
Applied Sciences, Electronics, Materials, Applied Nano
Advances in Microelectronics and Semiconductor Engineering
Topic Editors: Gerard Ghibaudo, Francis BalestraDeadline: 30 November 2023
Topic in
Applied Nano, JFB, Materials, Particles, Polymers
Nanotechnological Advancement in Biopolymer Functionalization
Topic Editors: Pritam Kumar Dikshit, Vijayanand S. Moholkar, Mamata Singhvi, Suchada Chanprateep NapathornDeadline: 20 December 2023

Conferences
27 October–10 November 2023
The 4th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences (ASEC2023)

Special Issues
Special Issue in
Applied Nano
Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Bioactive Nanomaterials for Antimicrobial and Antiviral Applications
Guest Editors: Giacomo Dacarro, Anthony William ColemanDeadline: 20 July 2023
Special Issue in
Applied Nano
Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies for Wound Healing
Guest Editors: Anna-Liisa Kubo, Kaja KasemetsDeadline: 20 August 2023
Special Issue in
Applied Nano
Core-Shell Nanostructures for Functional Applications
Guest Editors: Sergei Vlassov, Sven Oras, Edgars ButanovsDeadline: 20 September 2023
Special Issue in
Applied Nano
Applications of Nanostructured Catalytic Materials in Energy and Environment: New Progress and Challenges
Guest Editor: Michalis KonsolakisDeadline: 20 November 2023
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Applied Nano
Feature Papers for Applied Nano
Collection Editor: Angelo Taglietti