Inorganics

14 pages, 6642 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Active Layer and Metal Contact Thickness on P3HT:PCBM Solar Cell Performance

by Mariely Loeza-Poot, Inés Riech, Ricardo Mis-Fernández, Eduardo Flores, David Meneses-Rodríguez and Eric Hernández-Rodríguez

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060157 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2026

Abstract

Solar cell efficiency depends on both photogeneration and charge collection, with the active layer playing a key role in these processes. In organic solar cells (OSCs), where power conversion efficiency (PCE) remains relatively low, understanding the influence of active layer and metal contact [...] Read more.

Solar cell efficiency depends on both photogeneration and charge collection, with the active layer playing a key role in these processes. In organic solar cells (OSCs), where power conversion efficiency (PCE) remains relatively low, understanding the influence of active layer and metal contact thickness on device performance is essential. In this work, we investigate the effect of P3HT:PCBM and Ag thickness on OSC performance by analyzing the evolution of electrical parameters obtained from J-V measurements over five weeks, with particular attention given to resistance-related degradation behavior. The analyzed OSCs had a cell structure composed of Ag/P3HT:PCBM/TiO₂/ITO/glass, and each material was corroborated by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. The thickness of P3HT:PCBM was modulated by varying the number of spin-coated layers from 1 to 3 (ranging from 75 to 160 nm). This variation increases light absorption, as demonstrated by the optical transmittance spectra. However, device degradation became evident after the third week of fabrication, mainly due to an increase in series resistance, which adversely affected the open-circuit voltage (V_OC), fill factor (FF), and overall device efficiency. The best performance was obtained for devices fabricated with two P3HT:PCBM layers and 18 mg of Ag, achieving a maximum PCE of 0.5%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Materials)

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15 pages, 6089 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dielectric Anomalies and High-Temperature Dielectric Relaxation Dependence on B-Site Ordering of Li-Substituted Pb(Yb_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃

by Kaiyuan Chen, Danning Huang, Xiande Zheng, Jinwei Qu, Xiuyun Lei, Senentxu Lanceros-Méndez, Liang Fang, Feifei Han, Liaoting Pan, Qi Zhang and Laijun Liu

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060156 - 8 Jun 2026

Abstract

B-site ordering of Li-modified Pb_0.95Li_0.05(Yb_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃ (PLYN) ceramics can be changed by duration during sintering. In this paper, the conventional solid-state reaction method was employed to prepare antiferroelectric perovskite Li-substituted PLYN ceramics. Crystal structure evolution [...] Read more.

B-site ordering of Li-modified Pb_0.95Li_0.05(Yb_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃ (PLYN) ceramics can be changed by duration during sintering. In this paper, the conventional solid-state reaction method was employed to prepare antiferroelectric perovskite Li-substituted PLYN ceramics. Crystal structure evolution dependence of sintering time was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and dielectric response. Two dielectric anomalies responses, attributed to the transition from B-site order to disorder and antiferroelectric-paraelectric phase transition depend on B-site ordering. The high-temperature dielectric relaxation associated with charged carries (oxygen-vacancy hopping) was characterized by isothermal electric modulus and universal dielectric response. Impedance spectroscopy was used to uncover the relationship between defect type and the oxygen partial pressure (pO₂) dependence on sintering time in PLYN systems. These findings provide new insights into the interplay among B-site ordered phase structure, dielectric response, and defect types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Materials)

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20 pages, 921 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of Metallates Incorporating Functionalized Azolium Salts

by Tommaso Lorenzon, Alessia Schiavo, Anita Piccoli, Nicolò Perin, Lorenzo Rodighiero, Nicola Demitri, Giovanni Tonon, Fabiano Visentin, Flavio Rizzolio, Isabella Caligiuri, Martina Scianna, Catherine S. J. Cazin, Steven P. Nolan and Thomas Scattolin

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060155 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2026

Abstract

Azolium-derived metallates are well-established intermediates in metal–N-heterocyclic carbene chemistry; however, their potential as standalone therapeutic agents remains largely unexplored. Herein, we report the first systematic biological investigation of a diverse family of Au(I), Cu(I), Pt(II), Pd(II), and Ru(II) metallates paired with [...] Read more.

Azolium-derived metallates are well-established intermediates in metal–N-heterocyclic carbene chemistry; however, their potential as standalone therapeutic agents remains largely unexplored. Herein, we report the first systematic biological investigation of a diverse family of Au(I), Cu(I), Pt(II), Pd(II), and Ru(II) metallates paired with functionalized azolium cations. The complexes were synthesized quantitatively through a simple, atom-economical, and purification-free protocol under aerobic conditions in technical-grade green solvents. Structural characterization by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction confirmed metallate formation and enabled the first isolation and crystallographic characterization of unprecedented azolium-derived ruthenates. The antiproliferative activity of the complexes was evaluated against cisplatin-sensitive (A2780) and cisplatin-resistant (A2780cis) ovarian cancer cell lines, alongside non-cancerous MRC-5 fibroblasts. Backbone-functionalized derivatives emerged as the most potent compounds, displaying activities comparable or superior to cisplatin in A2780 cells and up to 1000-fold higher potency in the resistant A2780cis model. Notably, unlike cisplatin, the metallates retained nearly unchanged IC₅₀ values across both ovarian cancer lines, strongly suggesting resistance-evasive mechanisms of action. While benzylazido- and methyl guanosine-derived complexes generally exhibited lower overall potency, several members retained significant activity in resistant cells while showing markedly reduced toxicity toward normal fibroblasts, highlighting promising selectivity profiles. Ethoxide-functionalized derivatives and platinum-based metallates combined pronounced anticancer activity with favourable therapeutic windows. Overall, this work establishes azolium-derived metallates as a previously overlooked class of metal-based anticancer agents combining exceptional synthetic accessibility, broad structural tunability, and remarkable activity against platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rational Design of Pharmacologically Active Metal-Based Compounds, 2nd Edition)

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3 pages, 174 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Luminescent Materials: From Fundamental Photophysics to Emerging Applications

by Bin-Bin Chen

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060154 - 4 Jun 2026

Abstract

Luminescent materials have garnered widespread research interest due to their excellent photophysical properties, which have been extensively applied in diverse fields such as chemo-/biosensing, cellular imaging, cancer therapy, and optoelectronic devices [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Application of Luminescent Materials, 2nd Edition)

36 pages, 4282 KB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Nanoparticle-Based Fabrication Techniques for Infrared Detectors: A Comprehensive Review

by Mahboubeh Dolatyari, Ali Rostami and Axel Klein

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060153 - 3 Jun 2026

Abstract

The field of infrared (IR) photodetection is undergoing rapid development through the emergence of solution-processable nanoparticle (NP)-based materials and fabrication strategies. This review critically examines recent advances in fabrication approaches for NP-based IR detectors, emphasizing the relationship between synthesis, surface engineering, deposition processes, [...] Read more.

The field of infrared (IR) photodetection is undergoing rapid development through the emergence of solution-processable nanoparticle (NP)-based materials and fabrication strategies. This review critically examines recent advances in fabrication approaches for NP-based IR detectors, emphasizing the relationship between synthesis, surface engineering, deposition processes, and device architecture in determining detector performance. Representative material platforms are discussed, including colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) such as PbS and HgTe, which enable tunable operation from the near-infrared (NIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) to selected mid-wave (MWIR), long-wave (LWIR), and emerging very-long-wave infrared (VLWIR) regimes depending on material composition and operating conditions. Further platforms including plasmonic metal NPs, black phosphorus, and topological nanomaterials are evaluated for their unique mechanisms of optical enhancement and broadband response. Fabrication approaches including continuous-flow synthesis, ligand exchange, blade coating, inkjet printing, electrophoretic deposition, and other scalable solution-processing methods are analyzed with respect to their influence on film quality, charge transport, interface engineering, and integration compatibility. The review further compares major device architectures, including photoconductors, photodiodes, plasmonic absorbers, and phototransistors, using key performance metrics such as specific detectivity (D*), responsivity (R), response speed, and operating temperature, while emphasizing the importance of measurement conditions in cross-platform comparisons. Critical challenges including dark-current generation, 1/f noise, transport limitations associated with ligand chemistry, environmental instability of narrow-bandgap materials, manufacturability constraints, and toxicity considerations are also discussed. Emerging directions such as neuromorphic sensing, CMOS-compatible integration, and sustainable lead-free nanomaterials are highlighted. By linking nanoscale material design and fabrication processes to device-level performance, this review provides a framework for advancing NP-based IR technologies toward scalable and application-relevant sensing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Inorganic Semiconductor Materials, 4th Edition)

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14 pages, 3114 KB

Open AccessArticle

Remote Ligand Substitution in Imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline as a Strategy to Modulate Thermally and Aggregation-Driven Emission in Cu(I) Complexes

by Alondra Villegas-Menares, Max Bayas, María Herrera-Maldonado, Sebastián Villaroel-Sierra, Claudio Barrientos, Antonio Galdámez, Iván A. González and Alan R. Cabrera

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060152 - 3 Jun 2026

Abstract

Three new heteroleptic copper(I) complexes of the form [Cu(N,N)(XantPhos)]PF₆ were synthesized and characterized, where N,N refers to phenyl-substituted imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline. All complexes were obtained as yellow powders in yields ranging 82–95% and were fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, FT-IR, [...] Read more.

Three new heteroleptic copper(I) complexes of the form [Cu(N,N)(XantPhos)]PF₆ were synthesized and characterized, where N,N refers to phenyl-substituted imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline. All complexes were obtained as yellow powders in yields ranging 82–95% and were fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, FT-IR, and mass spectrometry. The complexes were also redox-optically characterized. Their absorption profiles display a lower-energy metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) band at approximately 412 nm. In solution, weak dual emission is observed, combining ligand-centered and MLCT contributions, with oxygen-dependent quenching supporting the presence of triplet character in the latter. Temperature- and solvent-dependent studies reveal thermally coupled emissive states, in which a relaxed ³MLCT state dominates at low temperatures. In the solid state, intense orange-to-red emission arises from restricted molecular motion and stabilized ³MLCT states, with C3 showing the highest efficiency. Additionally, aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is observed in solvent mixtures. These results suggest that remote substitution can influence the excited-state dynamics and aggregation-driven emission in Cu(I) complexes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Novel Coordination and Organometallic Complexes)

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21 pages, 54722 KB

Open AccessArticle

Compositional and Microstructural Evolution of Longquan Celadon from the Southern Song to Ming Periods: Implications for Color and Firing Behavior

by Peng Xing, Wenjun Fang, Ying Liu, Riqin Shan, Hui Zhang, Junming Wu, Tao Fang and Yong Huang

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060151 - 31 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines technological change in Longquan celadon from the Dayao kiln-site area by asking three related questions: how body and glaze compositions changed from the Southern Song to the Yuan and Ming periods; how these compositional changes relate to glaze color and [...] Read more.

This study examines technological change in Longquan celadon from the Dayao kiln-site area by asking three related questions: how body and glaze compositions changed from the Southern Song to the Yuan and Ming periods; how these compositional changes relate to glaze color and microstructure; and how firing-temperature data from representative ceramic bodies help to clarify firing practice within the sampled kiln sequence. Twenty celadon sherds from Jincun Dayao Bentou, Dayao Shantoucheng, Dayao Mulianyan, and Zhulongcun Panchuangkou were analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (EDXRF), CIE

L^{*} a^{*} b^{*}

color measurement, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-temperature dilatometry. The results show that the Yuan-associated bodies in this sampled assemblage contain higher

{Al}_{2} O_{3}

and

K_{2} O

and lower

{SiO}_{2}

than the Southern Song and Ming groups, indicating a strengthened aluminum- and potassium-rich body system. Glaze chemistry records a staged rebalancing of the flux system: from the high-calcium condition represented by Northern Song reference glazes, through a transitional Southern Song state, to a stronger calcium-alkali character in the Yuan period, followed by a partial return toward a more calcium-rich recipe in the Ming period. Color measurement indicates that the Yuan samples generally have lower

b^{*}

values, reflecting a reduced yellow component and a more bluish-green tendency; their relatively lower

L^{*}

values also correspond to a darker glaze appearance, although this difference is less pronounced than that observed for

b^{*}

. SEM observations of four representative cross-sections show glass-dominated glazes, anorthite-bearing body–glaze interlayers, and mullite-bearing bodies; the two Yuan representatives have thicker glaze layers and local phase separation, suggesting that their darker and more bluish appearance was produced by the combined effects of glaze chemistry, thickness, and microstructure. Firing-temperature data obtained from high-temperature dilatometry show that the representative samples were fired within a high-temperature range, while the variation between the two Yuan specimens suggests greater flexibility in firing practice during this period. Taken together, the data suggest that Longquan celadon underwent a non-linear technological reorganization, with the Yuan phase forming a key interval of compositional, microstructural, visual, and firing-related reconfiguration. Full article

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15 pages, 4720 KB

Open AccessArticle

Photocatalytic Transesterification of Palm Oil Using TiO₂-K: Synthesis, Characterization, and Kinetic Modeling

by Andrés Suárez-Escobar, Ricardo Ríos-Linares, Tatiana Santos-Castellanos, Andrea Álvarez-Cabrera, Felipe Mendoza-Abella and Miguel A. Esteso

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060150 - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Potassium-modified titanium dioxide (TiO₂–K) was synthesized and evaluated as a heterogeneous photocatalyst for fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) production from palm oil under UV irradiation. The catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy coupled [...] Read more.

Potassium-modified titanium dioxide (TiO₂–K) was synthesized and evaluated as a heterogeneous photocatalyst for fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) production from palm oil under UV irradiation. The catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). Potassium modification preserved the TiO₂ crystalline framework while producing marked changes in morphology and a significant decrease in surface area. Photocatalytic transesterification was optimized using a central composite design, evaluating the effects of catalyst loading and the methanol-to-oil molar ratio on FAME yield. The quadratic response surface model adequately described the experimental data and predicted an optimum FAME yield of approximately 98.96% under the evaluated conditions. Kinetic analysis showed that the reaction profile was well described by an apparent pseudo-first-order model, consistent with the use of excess methanol, while the Avrami–Weibull equation provided a flexible empirical representation of the conversion profile. Control experiments confirmed that irradiation and catalyst presence were required for measurable FAME formation. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of TiO₂–K as a photocatalyst for light-assisted biodiesel production and provides an initial framework for process optimization and kinetic interpretation. Full article

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13 pages, 2422 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Vapor-Phase Infiltration of Al-Doped Zinc Oxide into Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) for Enhanced Low-Temperature Thermoelectric Performance

by Dai Cuong Tran, Indirajith Palani, Heeseo Kim, Sangmin Lee, Sangho Cho and Myung Mo Sung

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060149 - 30 May 2026

Abstract

Semiconducting metal oxides are gaining attention in thermoelectric applications, where performance is evaluated by the figure of merit (ZT), which depends on the power factor (S²σ) and thermal conductivity (κ). However, achieving high ZT values [...] Read more.

Semiconducting metal oxides are gaining attention in thermoelectric applications, where performance is evaluated by the figure of merit (ZT), which depends on the power factor (S²σ) and thermal conductivity (κ). However, achieving high ZT values in these materials remains challenging. This study introduces a distinct strategy to enhance thermoelectric performance by infiltrating aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films using the vapor-phase infiltration (VPI) technique. The resulting AZO/PMMA hybrid films exhibit a unique composite structure with AZO nanocrystals embedded within an amorphous PMMA matrix. This structure facilitates energy-dependent carrier scattering (the energy filtering effect) at the AZO/PMMA interfaces, thereby enhancing the Seebeck coefficient, while phonon scattering at the interfaces reduces thermal conductivity. By precisely controlling VPI parameters, we achieved a uniform dispersion of AZO nanocrystals within the PMMA matrix. The optimized AZO/PMMA hybrid film demonstrated a power factor of 1306 μW m⁻¹ K⁻² and a thermal conductivity of 1.02 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹, resulting in a ZT value of approximately 0.384 at 300 K, which is one of the highest reported for metal oxide thermoelectric materials near room temperature. The successful integration of AZO into the PMMA matrix via VPI opens new pathways for developing high-performance, flexible thermoelectric materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Thermoelectric Materials: Advances and Applications)

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23 pages, 11273 KB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress and Prospect of Solid Electrolyte Garnet-Type Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂

by Peizhuang Wang, Lipeng Xu, Xiantao Li, Renyi Yang and Jun Li

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060148 - 29 May 2026

Abstract

At present, lithium lanthanum zirconate (LLZO) is regarded as one of the most promising solid-state electrolyte materials due to its high ionic conductivity (about 10⁻³ S/cm at room temperature), high chemical stability, and excellent chemical stability toward cathode materials and lithium metal [...] Read more.

At present, lithium lanthanum zirconate (LLZO) is regarded as one of the most promising solid-state electrolyte materials due to its high ionic conductivity (about 10⁻³ S/cm at room temperature), high chemical stability, and excellent chemical stability toward cathode materials and lithium metal anodes. However, there are several problems, such as poor interface contact with the lithium metal anode resulting in high interface impedance, a high sintering densification temperature (usually >1200 °C), a complex preparation process, and high cost. In recent years, researchers have conducted extensive studies on LLZO and achieved remarkable progress and results. This paper systematically reviews the research progress of LLZO’s structural characteristics, conductive mechanism, preparation methods, improvement strategies, and so on. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Research on Electrochemical Energy Storage Materials, 2nd Edition)

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1 pages, 143 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Hosseinigourajoubi et al. Activation Energy and Kinetics of First Hydrogenation in Ti_48.8Fe_46.0Mn_5.2 Alloy Produced by Gas Atomization. Inorganics 2026, 14, 62

by Seyedehfaranak Hosseinigourajoubi, Chris Schade and Jacques Huot

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060147 - 29 May 2026

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

19 pages, 2927 KB

Open AccessArticle

Copper-64: An Optimal Radionuclide for the Routine Preparation of PET Imaging Radiotracers from GMP-Lyophilized Gelatin-NOTA-Peptide Kits

by Myrna Luna-Gutiérrez, Erika Azorín-Vega, Blanca Ocampo-García, Nallely Jiménez-Mancilla, Clara Santos-Cuevas, Nancy Lara-Almazán, Cintya Herrera-García, Laura Meléndez-Alafort and Guillermina Ferro-Flores

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060146 - 28 May 2026

Abstract

Copper-64 is increasingly recognized for its advantages in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and theranostic applications due to its favorable half-life, decay profile, and high spatial resolution. This research addresses the need for reliable, high-purity PET radiotracers by developing GMP-grade lyophilized kits for [...] Read more.

Copper-64 is increasingly recognized for its advantages in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and theranostic applications due to its favorable half-life, decay profile, and high spatial resolution. This research addresses the need for reliable, high-purity PET radiotracers by developing GMP-grade lyophilized kits for one-step preparation of ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-peptides using gelatin as a chelating agent for metallic impurities and NOTA for selective copper binding. The approach was applied to five peptide analogs formulated for fast ⁶⁴Cu labeling: NOTA-iPSMA, NOTA-TOC, NOTA-iPD-L1, NOTA-iFAP, and NOTA-UBI 29–41, which were preclinically evaluated to enable the precise molecular imaging of cancer and infection. Each multidose kit included 0.5 μmol of the NOTA-peptide and 25 mg of gelatin, labeled with 925 MBq of ⁶⁴Cu. The radiochemical purity of the ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-peptides exceeded 98% (mean 99.2% ± 0.3%) without the need for additional purification. The ⁶⁴Cu-radiotracers remained stable for at least 24 h at room temperature and showed high stability in human serum. In preclinical studies, saturation-binding assays demonstrated that affinity (Kd) was less than 10 nM in all ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-peptides, with tumor-to-lung ratios ranging from 14 to 290 at 2 h post-injection and low liver uptake (2.95% ± 1.36% ID/g). The research demonstrated that these formulations, which include peptides specific to PSMA, SSTR2, PD-L1, FAP, and infection sites, offer excellent in vivo performance and high PET imaging quality in mice with induced tumors or infection sites. The findings support the use of gelatin-NOTA-peptide kits as a standardized and practical solution for producing ⁶⁴Cu-labeled peptides, facilitating routine clinical PET imaging, and advancing personalized molecular diagnostics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Compounds: Relevance for the Biomedical Field, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 11437 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication of High-Crystallinity ZnO Nanorods for Photocatalytic Application

by Tao Guo, Tomoya Ikuta and Chaoyang Li

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060145 - 27 May 2026

Abstract

ZnO nanorods were synthesized on AZO substrates by chemical bath deposition, and were subsequently annealed under an air and vacuum ambient. Both annealing processes could improve the crystallinities of ZnO nanorods. The air-annealed ZnO nanorods showed higher crystallinity and partial reduction of oxygen-vacancy-related [...] Read more.

ZnO nanorods were synthesized on AZO substrates by chemical bath deposition, and were subsequently annealed under an air and vacuum ambient. Both annealing processes could improve the crystallinities of ZnO nanorods. The air-annealed ZnO nanorods showed higher crystallinity and partial reduction of oxygen-vacancy-related defects. The air-annealed ZnO nanorods exhibited a much higher photodegradation efficiency of 70% degradation for methyl red. In addition, as-grown ZnO nanorods were coated with undoped and Al-doped ZnO by mist chemical vapor deposition. Both coated thin layers modified the surface of ZnO nanorods, while the AZO-coated ZnO nanorods showed higher crystallinity and light absorption which resulted in the improvement in the photodegradation rate of methyl red. These findings demonstrate that appropriate annealing treatment and AZO surface engineering for ZnO nanorods are effective approaches for improving crystallinity, which leads to improvement of the photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO-based materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances into Nanostructured Oxides, 3rd Edition)

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20 pages, 5689 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Profile of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Manufacturing: A Comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment

by Hilmi Hisyam Naimin, Ruhanita Maelah, Hawa Hishamuddin, Muhamed Ali Shaikh Abdul Kader Abdul Hameed, Mohd Nizam Ab Rahman and Amizawati Mohd Amir

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060144 - 26 May 2026

Abstract

Coal has been Malaysia’s primary energy source for electricity generation for the past few decades, resulting in increased greenhouse gas emissions and irreversible environmental damage. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) have emerged as a viable clean-energy alternative to mitigate these environmental effects. There [...] Read more.

Coal has been Malaysia’s primary energy source for electricity generation for the past few decades, resulting in increased greenhouse gas emissions and irreversible environmental damage. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) have emerged as a viable clean-energy alternative to mitigate these environmental effects. There has been significant emphasis on developing pollution-free technology, with limited attention given to the environmental impact of SOFC. Research and development efforts have primarily focused on the design and technical aspects of SOFC. Prior to the introduction of SOFC to market, quantifying the environmental footprint of SOFC manufacturing is necessary to support a sustainable energy transition. This study conducts a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of SOFC manufacturing in accordance with ISO 14040 and 14044 standards. The analysis focuses on a planar electrolyte-supported SOFC with a lifespan of 4.57 years, using a functional unit of 1 kWh electrical output. The Environmental Footprint (EF) 3.1 method implemented in GaBi Software was used for the impact assessment. Key environmental impact categories considered in the LCA include Climate Change (CC), Acidification Potential (AP), Eutrophication Potential (EP), Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), Photochemical Ozone Formation (POF), and Human Toxicity Potential (HTP). The total climate change impact is approximately 19.674 kg CO₂ eq./kWh, with the Balance of Plant (BoP) phase contributing 91% of this impact, while the fuel cell stack phase contributes 1.25%. The study identifies key areas for improvement, primarily related to BoP and other high-impact processes, and emphasizes the importance of targeted measures to effectively reduce the environmental impacts associated with SOFC manufacturing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Solid Oxide Cells (SOCs))

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26 pages, 7225 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metal Complexes and AuNP Formulations of a Moxifloxacin–Salicylaldehyde Hydrazone: Synthesis, Coordination Features, and Biological Evaluation

by Adel Sayed Orabi, Sara Reda Fisal, Ibrahim Ahmed Ibrahim Ali, W. Christopher Boyd, Haitham Kalil and Abbas Mamdoh Abbas

Inorganics 2026, 14(6), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14060143 - 23 May 2026

Abstract

Moxifloxacin-based Schiff-base ligands provide a useful platform for tuning the coordination and biological properties of fluoroquinolone derivatives. Here, a moxifloxacin–salicylaldehyde hydrazone ligand (MOX-S) was prepared and coordinated with cobalt(II), nickel(II), copper(II), oxovanadium(IV), and gadolinium(III) ions to obtain a series of metal complexes. Citrate-stabilized [...] Read more.

Moxifloxacin-based Schiff-base ligands provide a useful platform for tuning the coordination and biological properties of fluoroquinolone derivatives. Here, a moxifloxacin–salicylaldehyde hydrazone ligand (MOX-S) was prepared and coordinated with cobalt(II), nickel(II), copper(II), oxovanadium(IV), and gadolinium(III) ions to obtain a series of metal complexes. Citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were also prepared and functionalized with MOX-S and the Cu(II) complex to evaluate the effect of nanoformulation on biological performance. The compounds were characterized using complementary analytical, spectroscopic, magnetic, thermal, and microscopic techniques. The combined data support 1:2 metal-to-ligand formulations for the complexes and indicate coordination mainly through the azomethine nitrogen and oxygen donor sites of MOX-S. In antimicrobial screening, the activity was strongly metal- and organism-dependent. Cu–MOX-S and VO–MOX-S showed the most pronounced activity against Gram-positive bacteria, with inhibition zones of up to 30 mm, while Cu–MOX-S displayed MIC values of 19.53 and 39.06 µg mL⁻¹ against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. Cytotoxicity assays showed that MOX-S was more active than moxifloxacin against MCF-7 and HepG2 cells, while Cu–MOX-S showed enhanced potency, particularly toward HepG2 cells, with an IC₅₀ of 0.98 µM and a selectivity index of 5.97. AuNP formulations further increased the apparent antiproliferative potency in the tested cancer cell lines, giving sub-micromolar IC₅₀ values. Computational analyses, including DFT-based electronic descriptors and molecular docking, provided qualitative support for the experimentally observed coordination and cytotoxicity trends. Overall, metal coordination and AuNP formulations provide complementary strategies for modulating the physicochemical and in vitro biological behavior of this moxifloxacin-derived hydrazone scaffold. Full article

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14 pages, 1340 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Structural Aspects of Cu(I)(κ²-X¹,X²)(Y³) and Cu(I)(η²-X¹,X²)(Y³) Complexes

by Milan Melník, Natalia Miklášová, Veronika Mikušová and Peter Mikuš

Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050142 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Structural parameters for over seventy complexes of the composition Cu(η²-X^1×2)(Y³) or Cu(κ²-X¹X²)(Y³) were analyzed in this work, being the third of a series of structural studies on three coordinated [...] Read more.

Structural parameters for over seventy complexes of the composition Cu(η²-X^1×2)(Y³) or Cu(κ²-X¹X²)(Y³) were analyzed in this work, being the third of a series of structural studies on three coordinated copper(I) complexes. Bidentate (X¹X²) with monodentate (Y³) donor ligands build up distorted trigonal planar coordination spheres around copper(I) atoms. The bidentate ligands (X¹X²) create three-, four-, and five-membered metallocyclic rings. The three-membered are: -C¹-C²-Cu-C³; -B¹=B²-Cu-Cl³; -P≡C²-Cu-C³, -B¹-B²-Cu-X³, and B¹-C²-Cu-C³. The X¹-Cu-X² angles indicate a total mean value of 44.2°. The four-membered complexes are -H¹-B(H₂)-H²-Cu-C³; -H¹-B(Ph₂)-H²-Cu-C³; -O¹AlO²-Cu-N³; -O¹CeO²-Cu-N³; -S¹CP²-Cu-C³; -N¹PN²-Cu-C³; -N¹PS²-Cu-P³; -N¹SiO¹-Cu-Cl³; --N¹CS²-Cu-C³; -Si¹-NSi²-Cu-C³, and O¹CO²-Cu-C³, and show a total mean value of the L-Cu-L angles of 71.0°. The five-membered are: -N¹-C=C-N²-Cu-Y³ (more common) and N=C-C=N-Cu-C³. In this group, there are also copper(I) complexes in which the central Ns of five-membered metallocycle are “interlocked” in macrocycles. The X¹-Cu-X² angles exhibit an average value of 82.9°. There is a wide variety of monodentate (Y³) ligands in the studied complexes. The mean value of Cu-Y³ elongates with covalent radius (Å) of coordinate atoms in the sequence: 1.846(13) Å (N³, 0.75) < 1.884(21) Å (O³, 0.73) < 1.928(18) Å (C³, 0.77) < 2.126(18) Å (Cl³, 0.99) < 2.140(5) Å (S³, 1.02) < 2.194(4) Å (P³, 1.06) < 2.246(12) Å (Br³, 1.14) < 2.2445(18) Å (I³, 1.33). The data show that angular distortion from regular trigonal geometry grows in the following order: five-, four-, and three-membered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications and Future Trends for Novel Copper Complexes)

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19 pages, 2594 KB

Open AccessArticle

Turning Colombian Banana Waste into a Lignocellulosic Carbocatalyst: A Green Photocatalytic Route for Mercury Remediation

by Hasleidy Úsuga-Guerra, Milton Rojas, John Rojas, Lis Manrique-Losada, Daniel Ávila-Torres, Ricardo A. Torres-Palma and Yenny P. Ávila-Torres

Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050141 - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Mercury pollution from artisanal and small-scale gold mining remains one of the most persistent environmental threats due to the high toxicity, mobility, and bioaccumulation of Hg(II). In this work, Colombian banana pseudostem waste is valorized into a lignocellulosic carbocatalyst through pyrolysis at 500 [...] Read more.

Mercury pollution from artisanal and small-scale gold mining remains one of the most persistent environmental threats due to the high toxicity, mobility, and bioaccumulation of Hg(II). In this work, Colombian banana pseudostem waste is valorized into a lignocellulosic carbocatalyst through pyrolysis at 500 °C followed by MnCO₃-derived MnOx functionalization, producing a sustainable material for Hg(II) remediation. The transformation of the biomass leads from a fibrous structure (~25 µm) to a pyrolyzed carbon matrix (9.56 µm), and finally to a heterogeneous Mn-modified system with bimodal particle distribution (~25 µm and ~0.85 µm), the latter being associated with highly dispersed MnOx redox-active domains. Structural and textural analyses reveal that Mn incorporation significantly enhances surface properties, increasing the BET surface area from 140.8 to 213 m² g⁻¹ while reducing pore size to the meso–microporous range (~1.9 nm). Importantly, the material retains intrinsic minerals such as Ca, Mg, K, and Si, which contribute to surface basicity and ion-exchange capacity, supporting additional Hg(II) interaction pathways. Optical and electronic characterization shows a wide band gap semiconductor behavior (≈3.4 eV) and a conduction band position at −0.892 V vs. NHE, sufficiently negative to thermodynamically drive Hg²⁺ reduction to Hg⁰ under UV-A irradiation. Hg(II) quantification was validated using a UV–Vis method based on the Hg²⁺–dipicolinic acid (DPA) complex, confirming stable complex formation with 1:2 stoichiometry (Hg²⁺:DPA) and high analytical reliability (R² = 0.948, LOD = 1.85 mg L⁻¹). Photocatalytic experiments demonstrated negligible Hg(II) reduction under UV-A light in the absence of catalyst, whereas the carbon-based materials enabled significant Hg transformation through adsorption-assisted photoinduced electron transfer. Electrochemical analyses (Rct ≈ 11 Ω) confirmed efficient charge transport, while cyclic voltammetry evidenced reversible Mn(IV)/Mn(III)/Mn(II) redox cycling, which sustains electron mediation during photocatalysis. Overall, pristine biochar acts primarily through adsorption driven by oxygenated functional groups and porous structure, whereas Mn-functionalized biochar operates via a synergistic adsorption–photocatalytic mechanism. In this system, MnOx species function as redox-active centers that facilitate electron transfer from the carbon matrix to Hg(II), while the conductive lignocellulosic-derived framework enhances charge mobility. The combination of structural carbon stability, dispersed Mn active sites, and inherent mineral functionality establishes a highly efficient and sustainable carbocatalyst, demonstrating a green and scalable approach for mercury remediation in mining-impacted regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inorganic Photocatalysts for Environmental Applications)

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12 pages, 1210 KB

Open AccessArticle

Toward Photoactivatable Copper(I) Anticancer Agents: Heteroleptic Cu(I) Complexes with Functionalized Dipyridylamine Ligands

by Alondra Villegas-Menares, María Herrera-Maldonado, Iván Brito, Michelle Palacios, Sebastián Muñoz-Farias, Mario A. Faundez and Alan R. Cabrera

Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050140 - 19 May 2026

Abstract

In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of three Cu(I) complexes bearing functionalized dipyridylamine ligands and DPEphos. Structural analysis confirms a distorted tetrahedral coordination environment around the metal center. Photophysical studies in DMSO show similar absorption profiles (λ_abs ≈ 341–343 [...] Read more.

In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of three Cu(I) complexes bearing functionalized dipyridylamine ligands and DPEphos. Structural analysis confirms a distorted tetrahedral coordination environment around the metal center. Photophysical studies in DMSO show similar absorption profiles (λ_abs ≈ 341–343 nm) with ligand-centered and MLCT transitions, while emission spans the visible region (λ_emi = 410–483 nm) and is strongly influenced by ligand substitution, with the CF₃ derivative displaying a marked red shift. Emission is insensitive to oxygen and exhibits short lifetimes (τ ≈ 14.9–15.3 ns), suggesting short-lived ¹MLCT excited states. Biological evaluation in A375 melanoma cells reveals that all complexes exhibit low-micromolar cytotoxicity under dark conditions (IC₅₀ = 3.33–4.92 μM). Notably, only the CF₃-substituted complex shows a significant light-induced enhancement of activity upon irradiation at 390 nm (IC₅₀ = 1.18 μM), indicating photoactivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis, Structural Analysis and Biological Activity of Metal Complexes)

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14 pages, 2377 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Temperature Synthesis of Ta_xHf_1−xC Solid Solutions via Pectin Gelation: Phase and Morphological Evolution

by Aimé L. Acosta-Soto, Laura G. Ceballos-Mendívil, Jonathan C. Luque-Ceballos, Rody Soto-Rojo, Francisco Baldenebro-López, Adriana Cruz-Enríquez, José J. Campos-Gaxiola, Carlos A. Pérez-Rábago and Jesús Baldenebro-López

Inorganics 2026, 14(5), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics14050139 - 16 May 2026

Abstract

Ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) in the Ta–Hf–C ternary system are of significant interest for extreme aerospace and energy applications due to their melting points near 4000 °C. However, their synthesis typically requires extreme temperatures and pressures. This study reports a pectin-assisted low-temperature route for [...] Read more.

Ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) in the Ta–Hf–C ternary system are of significant interest for extreme aerospace and energy applications due to their melting points near 4000 °C. However, their synthesis typically requires extreme temperatures and pressures. This study reports a pectin-assisted low-temperature route for Ta-rich Ta_xHf_1−xC powder synthesis via carbothermal reduction at 1500 °C. The effect of Ta/Hf molar ratios (2.7/1, 0.9/1, and 0.3/1) on phase evolution, crystallinity, and morphology was systematically investigated. FTIR confirmed the successful formation of homogeneous hybrid organic–inorganic precursors through the chelation of metal ions with pectin functional groups. XRD results demonstrated that the Ta-rich composition (Ta/Hf = 2.7/1) promotes the formation of a high-purity (95.87%) cubic solid solution (lattice parameter a = 4.453 Å) with sharp reflections and improved crystallinity. In contrast, Hf-rich samples exhibited incomplete conversion, leaving unreacted HfO₂ and Ta₂Hf₆O₁₇ oxide phases due to the high thermodynamic stability of hafnia. Microstructural analysis revealed quasi-spherical Ta_xHf_1−xC particles with an average size of approximately 123 nm, together with finer residual oxide particles of about 50 nm. Overall, these results demonstrate that pectin-assisted precursor chemistry is an effective strategy for promoting low-temperature carbide formation in Ta-rich Ta_xHf_1−xC compositions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramics and Refractory Composites)

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