Degradable Plasma-Polymerized Poly(Ethylene Glycol)-Like Coating as a Matrix for Food-Packaging Applications
Super-High-Frequency Bulk Acoustic Resonators Based on Aluminum Scandium Nitride for Wideband Applications
Multiscale Porous Carbon Materials by In Situ Growth of Metal–Organic Framework in the Micro-Channel of Delignified Wood for High-Performance Water Purification
Forensic Analysis of Synthetic Cathinones on Nanomaterials-Based Platforms: Chemometric-Assisted Voltametric and UPLC-MS/MS Investigation
Recent Advances on the Design and Applications of Antimicrobial Nanomaterials

Journal Description

Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published semimonthly online by MDPI.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Physics, Applied) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Chemical Engineering)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 11.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Companion journals for Nanomaterials include: Nanomanufacturing and Applied Nano.

Impact Factor: 5.3 (2022); 5-Year Impact Factor: 5.4 (2022)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2079-4991

Latest Articles

19 pages, 6692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Evaluation of TiO₂ Nanoparticle Addition and Postcuring Time on the Flexural Properties and Hardness of Additively Fabricated Denture Base Resins

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3061; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233061 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Three-dimensionally (3D)-printed fabricated denture bases have shown inferior strength to conventional and subtractively fabricated ones. Several factors could significantly improve the strength of 3D-printed denture base resin, including the addition of nanoparticles and post-curing factors. This study evaluated the effect of TiO₂ nanoparticle (TNP) addition and the post-curing time (PCT) on the flexural properties and hardness of three-dimensionally (3D)-printed denture base resins. A total of 360 specimens were fabricated, with 180 specimens from each type of resin. For evaluating the flexural properties, bar-shaped specimens measuring 64 × 10 × 3.3 mm were used, while, for the hardness testing, disc-shaped specimens measuring 15 × 2 mm were employed. The two 3D-printed resins utilized in this study were Asiga (DentaBASE) and NextDent (Vertex Dental B.V). Each resin was modified by adding TNPs at 1% and 2% concentrations, forming two groups and an additional unmodified group. Each group was divided into three subgroups according to the PCT (15, 60, and 90 min). All the specimens were subjected to artificial aging (5000 cycles), followed by testing of the flexural strength and elastic modulus using a universal testing machine, and the hardness using the Vickers hardness test. A three-way ANOVA was used for the data analysis, and a post hoc Tukey’s test was used for the pairwise comparisons (α = 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for the fracture surface analysis. The addition of the TNPs increased the flexural strength in comparison to the unmodified groups (p < 0.001), while there was no significant difference in the elastic modulus and hardness with the 1% TNP concentration. Among the TNP groups, the 2% TNP concentration significantly decreased the elastic modulus and hardness (p < 0.001). The SEM showed a homogenous distribution of the TNPs, and the more irregular fracture surface displayed ductile fractures. The PCT significantly increased the flexural strength, elastic modulus, and hardness (p < 0.001), and this increase was time-dependent. The three-way ANOVA results revealed a significant difference between the material types, TNP concentrations, and PCT interactions (p < 0.001). Both concentrations of the TNPs increased the flexural strength, while the 2% TNP concentration decreased the elastic modulus and hardness of the 3D-printed nanocomposites. The flexural strength and hardness increased as the PCT increased. The material type, TNP concentration, and PCT are important factors that affect the strength of 3D-printed nanocomposites and could improve their mechanical performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanocomposites: From Strategic Design to Applications)

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30 pages, 4531 KiB

Open AccessReview

NanoBubble-Mediated Oxygenation: Elucidating the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms in Hypoxia and Mitochondrial-Related Pathologies

Sergio M. Viafara Garcia

Muhammad Saad Khan

Ziyad S. Haidar

and

Juan Pablo Acevedo Cox

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3060; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233060 (registering DOI) - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Worldwide, hypoxia-related conditions, including cancer, COVID-19, and neuro-degenerative diseases, often lead to multi-organ failure and significant mortality. Oxygen, crucial for cellular function, becomes scarce as levels drop below 10 mmHg (<2% O₂), triggering mitochondrial dysregulation and activating hypoxia-induced factors (HiFs). Herein, oxygen nanobubbles (OnB), an emerging versatile oxygen delivery platform, offer a novel approach to address hypoxia-related pathologies. This review explores OnB oxygen delivery strategies and systems, including diffusion, ultrasound, photodynamic, and pH-responsive nanobubbles. It delves into the nanoscale mechanisms of OnB, elucidating their role in mitochondrial metabolism (TFAM, PGC1alpha), hypoxic responses (HiF-1alpha), and their interplay in chronic pathologies including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, amongst others. By understanding these dynamics and underlying mechanisms, this article aims to contribute to our accruing knowledge of OnB and the developing potential in ameliorating hypoxia- and metabolic stress-related conditions and fostering innovative therapies. Full article

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17 pages, 11011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nanoscale Insights into the Mechanical Behavior of Interfacial Composite Structures between Calcium Silicate Hydrate/Calcium Hydroxide and Silica

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3059; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233059 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

The failure of the interfacial transition zone has been identified as the primary cause of damage and deterioration in cement-based materials. To further understand the interfacial failure mechanism, interfacial composite structures between the main hydration products of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), and silica (SiO₂) were constructed while considering their anisotropy. Afterwards, uniaxial tensile tests were conducted using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Our results showed that the interfacial zones (IZs) of interfacial composite structures tended to have relatively lower densities than those of the bulk, and the anisotropy of the hydration products had almost no effect on the IZ being a low-density zone. Interfacial composite structures with different configurations exhibited diverse nanomechanical behaviors in terms of their ultimate strength, stress–strain relationship and fracture evaluation. A higher strain rate contributed to a higher ultimate strength and a more prolonged decline in the residual strength. In the interfacial composite structures, both CSH and Ca(OH)₂ exhibited ruptures of the Ca-O bond as the primary atomic pair during the tensile process. The plastic damage characteristics of the interfacial composite structures during the tensile process were assessed by analyzing the normalized number of broken Ca-O bonds, which also aligned with the atomic chain break characteristics evident in the per-atom stress map. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanics of Micro/Nano Structures and Materials, Volume II)

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12 pages, 6686 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zero- to One-Dimensional Zn₂₄ Supraclusters: Synthesis, Structures and Detection Wavelength

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3058; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233058 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

A zinc supracluster [Zn₂₄(ATZ)₁₈(AcO)₃₀(H₂O)_1.5]·(H₂O)_3.5 (Zn₂₄), and a 1D zinc supracluster chain {[Zn₂₄(ATZ)₁₈(AcO)₃₀(C₂H₅OH)₂(H₂O)₃ [...] Read more.

A zinc supracluster [Zn₂₄(ATZ)₁₈(AcO)₃₀(H₂O)_1.5]·(H₂O)_3.5 (Zn₂₄), and a 1D zinc supracluster chain {[Zn₂₄(ATZ)₁₈(AcO)₃₀(C₂H₅OH)₂(H₂O)₃]·(H₂O)_2.5}_n (1-D⊂Zn₂₄) with molecular diameters of 2 nm were synthesized under regulatory solvothermal conditions or the micro bottle method. In an N,N-dimethylformamide solution of Zn₂₄, Fe³⁺, Ni²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cr²⁺ and Co²⁺ ions exhibited fluorescence-quenching effects, while the rare earth ions Ce³⁺, Dy³⁺, Er³⁺, Eu³⁺, Gd³⁺, Ho³⁺, La³⁺, Nd³⁺, Sm³⁺, and Tb³⁺showed no obvious fluorescence quenching. In ethanol solution, the Zn₂₄ supracluster can be used to selectively detect Ce³⁺ ions with excellent efficiency (limit of detection (LOD) = 8.51 × 10⁻⁷ mol/L). The Zn₂₄ supracluster can also detect wavelengths between 302 and 332 nm using the intensity of the emitted light. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interfacial Bonding Design and Applications in Structural and Functional Materials)

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16 pages, 6692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization Mechanism of Nozzle Parameters and Characterization of Nanofibers in Centrifugal Spinning

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3057; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233057 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Nanofibers are an emerging kind of nano-material, widely used in several application domains such as biomedicine, high-efficiency filtration media, precision electronics, and optical devices. Centrifugal spinning, which is a novel nanofiber production technology, has been widely studied. This paper proposes a structural parameter optimization design method of a bent-tube nozzle. The mathematical model of the spinning solution motion in the nozzle is first developed. The optimization function of the structure parameters of the bent-tube nozzle is then obtained by calculation. Afterwards, these parameters are optimized using a neural network algorithm. The obtained results show that, when the bending angle is 15°, the curvature radius is 10 mm, the outlet radius is 0.205 mm, and the head loss of the solution can be minimized. Finally, centrifugal spinning experiments are conducted and the influence of the centrifugal spinning parameters on the nanofibers is analyzed. In addition, the optimized bent-tube nozzle improves the surface morphology of the nanofibers as their diameter distribution becomes more uniform. Full article

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8 pages, 3197 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Impact of Sapphire Step Height on the Growth of Monolayer Molybdenum Disulfide

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233056 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Although the synthesis of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) on sapphire has made a lot of progress, how the substrate surface affects the growth still needs to be further studied. Herein, the impact of the sapphire step height on the growth of monolayer MoS₂ through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is studied. The results show that MoS₂ exhibits a highly oriented triangular grain on a low-step (0.44–1.54 nm) substrate but nanoribbons with a consistent orientation on a high-step (1.98–3.30 nm) substrate. Triangular grains exhibit cross-step growth, with one edge parallel to the step edge, while nanoribbons do not cross steps and possess the same orientation as the step. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals that nanoribbons are formed by splicing multiple grains, and the consistency of the orientation of these grains is demonstrated with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and second-harmonic generation (SHG). Furthermore, our CP2K calculations, conducted using the generalized gradient approximation and the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (PBE) functional with D3 (BJ) correction, show that MoS₂ domains prefer to nucleate at higher steps, while climbing across a higher step is more difficult. This work not only sheds light on the growth mechanism of monolayer MoS₂ but also promotes its applications in electrical, optical, and energy-related devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Structured Materials: Synthesis, Properties and Applications)

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11 pages, 1962 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Visible-Light-Driven Semiconductor–Metal Transition in Electron Gas at the (100) Surface of KTaO₃

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3055; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233055 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the (100) KTaO₃(KTO) surface and interfaces has attracted extensive interest because of its abundant physical properties. Here, light illumination-induced semiconductor–metal transition in the 2DEG at the KTO surface was investigated. 2DEG was formed at the surface of KTO by argon ion bombardment. The 2DEG prepared with a shorter bombardment time (300 s) exhibits semiconducting behavior in the range of 20~300 K in the dark. However, it shows a different resistance behavior, namely, a metallic state above ~55 K and a semiconducting state below ~55 K when exposed to visible light (405 nm) with a giant conductivity increase of about eight orders of magnitude at 20 K. The suppression of the semiconducting behavior is found to be more pronounced with increasing light power. After removing the illumination, the resistance cannot recover quickly, exhibiting persistent photoconductivity. More interestingly, the photoresponse of the 2DEG below 50 K was almost independent of the laser wavelength, although the photon energy is lower than the band gap of KTO. The present results provide experimental support for tuning oxide 2DEG by photoexcitation, suggesting promising applications of KTO-based 2DEG in future electronic and optoelectronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoelectronics: Materials, Devices and Applications)

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2 pages, 186 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Synthesis of Nanocomposites and Catalysis Applications II

Evgeny Gerasimov

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3054; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233054 - 30 Nov 2023

Abstract

Nanocomposites, which refer to materials composed of nanoparticles dispersed in a matrix, have gained significant attention in various fields due to their unique properties and potential applications [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Nanocomposites and Catalysis Applications II)

16 pages, 10888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Precise Confinement and Position Distribution of Atomic Cu and Zn in ZSM-5 for CO₂ Hydrogenation to Methanol

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3053; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233053 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

CuZn-based catalysts are widely used in CO₂ hydrogenation, which may effectively convert CO₂ to methanol and alleviate CO₂ emission issues. The precise design of a model catalyst with a clear atomic structure is crucial in studying the relationship between structure and catalytic activity. In this work, a one-pot strategy was used to synthesize CuZn@ZSM-5 catalysts with approximately two Cu atoms and one Zn atom per unit cell. Atomic Cu and Zn species are confirmed to be located in the [5⁴.6.10²] and [6².10⁴] tilings, respectively, by using magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MAS NMR), synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction (SXRD) and high-signal-to-noise-ratio annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (High SNR ADF-STEM). Catalytic hydrogenation of CO₂ to methanol was used as a model reaction to investigate the activity of the catalyst with confined active species. Compared to the Cu@ZSM-5, Zn@ZSM-5 and their mixture, the CuZn@ZSM-5 catalyst with a close Cu–Zn distance of 4.5 Å achieves a comparable methanol space–time yield (STY) of 92.0 mg_methanol·g_catal⁻¹·h⁻¹ at 533 K and 4 MPa with high stability. This method is able to confine one to three metal atoms in the zeolite channel and avoid migration and agglomeration of the atoms during the reaction, which maintains the stability of the catalyst and provides an efficient way for adjustment of the type and number of metal atoms along with the distances between them in zeolites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry at Nanoscale)

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21 pages, 4583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Highly Efficient Liquid-Phase Exfoliation of Layered Perovskite-like Titanates HLnTiO₄ and H₂Ln₂Ti₃O₁₀ (Ln = La, Nd) into Nanosheets

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3052; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233052 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Nanosheets of layered perovskite-like oxides attract researchers as building blocks for the creation of a wide range of demanded nanomaterials. However, Ruddlesden–Popper phases are difficult to separate into nanosheets quantitatively via the conventional liquid-phase exfoliation procedure in aqueous solutions of bulky organic bases. The present study has considered systematically a relatively novel and efficient approach to a high-yield preparation of concentrated suspensions of perovskite nanosheets. For this, the Ruddlesden–Popper titanates HLnTiO₄ and H₂Ln₂Ti₃O₁₀ (Ln = La, Nd) have been intercalated by n-alkylamines with various chain lengths, exposed to sonication in aqueous tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH) and centrifuged to separate the nanosheet-containing supernatant. The experiments included variations of a wide range of conditions, which allowed for the achievement of impressive nanosheet concentrations in suspensions up to 2.1 g/L and yields up to 95%. The latter were found to strongly depend on the length of intercalated n-alkylamines. Despite the less expanded interlayer space, the titanates modified with short-chain amines demonstrated a much higher completeness of liquid-phase exfoliation as compared to those with long-chain ones. It was also shown that the exfoliation efficiency depends more on the sample stirring time in the TBAOH solution than on the sonication duration. Analysis of the titanate nanosheets obtained by means of dynamic light scattering, electron and atomic force microscopy revealed their lateral sizes of 30–250 nm and thickness of 2–4 nm. The investigated exfoliation strategy appears to be convenient for the high-yield production of perovskite nanosheet-based materials for photocatalytic hydrogen production, environmental remediation and other applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PbSe/PbS Core/Shell Nanoplatelets with Enhanced Stability and Photoelectric Properties

Aleksandra V. Koroleva

Evgeniy V. Zhizhin

and

Anatoly V. Fedorov

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3051; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233051 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Lead chalcogenide nanoplatelets (NPLs) have emerged as a promising material for devices operating in the near IR and IR spectrum region. Here, we first apply the cation exchange method to PbSe/PbS core/shell NPL synthesis. The shell growth enhances NPL colloidal and environmental stability, and passivates surface trap states, preserving the main core physical properties. To prove the great potential for optoelectrical applications, we fabricate a photoconductor using PbSe/PbS NPLs. The device demonstrates enhanced conductivity and responsivity with fast rise and fall times, resulting in a 13 kHz bandwidth. The carrier transport was investigated with the field effect transistor method, showing p-type conductivity with charge mobility of 1.26 × 10⁻² cm²·V⁻¹·s⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)

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9 pages, 3493 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Symmetry-Engineering-Induced In-Plane Polarization Enhancement in Ta₂NiS₅/CrOCl van der Waals Heterostructure

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3050; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233050 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Van der Waals (vdW) interfaces can be formed via layer stacking regardless of the lattice constant or symmetry of the individual building blocks. Herein, we constructed a vdW interface of layered Ta₂NiS₅ and CrOCl, which exhibited remarkably enhanced in-plane anisotropy via polarized Raman spectroscopy and electrical transport measurements. Compared with pristine Ta₂NiS₅, the anisotropy ratio of the Raman intensities for the B_2g, ²A_g, and ³A_g modes increased in the heterostructure. More importantly, the anisotropy ratios of conductivity and mobility in the heterostructure increased by one order of magnitude. Specifically speaking, the conductivity ratio changed from ~2.1 (Ta₂NiS₅) to ~15 (Ta₂NiS₅/CrOCl), while the mobility ratio changed from ~2.7 (Ta₂NiS₅) to ~32 (Ta₂NiS₅/CrOCl). Such prominent enhancement may be attributed to the symmetry reduction caused by lattice mismatch at the heterostructure interface and the introduction of strain into the Ta₂NiS₅. Our research provides a new perspective for enhancing artificial anisotropy physics and offers feasible guidance for future functionalized electronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Layered Nanomaterials and Heterostructures for Electronics, Optoelectronics and Sensing)

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12 pages, 2605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Achieving Order in Disorder: Stabilizing Red Light-Emitting α-Phase Formamidinium Lead Iodide

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3049; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233049 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

While formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI₃) halide perovskite (HP) exhibits improved thermal stability and a wide band gap, its practical applicability is chained due to its room temperature phase transition from pure black (α-phase) to a non-perovskite yellow (δ-phase) when exposed to humidity. This phase transition is due to the fragile ionic bonding between the cationic and anionic parts of HPs during their formation. Herein, we report the synthesis of water-stable, red-light-emitting α-phase FAPbI₃ nanocrystals (NCs) using five different amines to overcome these intrinsic phase instabilities. The structural, morphological, and electronic characterization were obtained using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The photoluminescence (PL) emission and single-particle imaging bear the signature of dual emission in several amines, indicating a self-trapped excited state. Our simple strategy to stabilize the α-phase using various amine interfacial interactions could provide a better understanding and pave the way for a novel approach for the stabilization of perovskites for prolonged durations and their multifunctional applications. Full article

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14 pages, 4612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Facile Synthesis of Ce-MOF for the Removal of Phosphate, Fluoride, and Arsenic

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3048; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233048 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Ce-MOF was synthesized by a solvothermal synthesis method and was used to simultaneously remove phosphate, fluoride and arsenic (V) from water by adsorption. Ce-MOF was characterized by a nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm, scanning electron microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. The effects of initial concentration, adsorption time, adsorption temperature, pH value and adsorbent on the adsorption properties were investigated. A Langmuir isotherm model was used to fit the adsorption data, and the adsorption capacity of phosphate, fluoride, and arsenic (V) was calculated to be 41.2 mg·g⁻¹, 101.8 mg·g⁻¹ and 33.3 mg·g⁻¹, respectively. Compared with the existing commercially available CeO₂ and other MOFs, Ce-MOF has a much higher adsorption capacity. Furthermore, after two reuses, the performance of the adsorbent was almost unchanged, indicating it is a stable adsorbent and has good application potential in the field of wastewater treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Open Framework Materials in the Application of Adsorption, Separation, and Catalysis)

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3 pages, 204 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Excitons and Phonons in Two-Dimensional Materials: From Fundamental to Applications

Maciej R. Molas

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3047; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233047 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

The isolation of graphene opened the gate to investigate a vast family of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Excitons and Phonons in Two-Dimensional Materials: From Fundamental to Applications)

14 pages, 5072 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Single-Step Formation of Metal Oxide Nanostructures Wrapped in Mesoporous Silica and Silica–Niobia Catalysts for the Condensation of Furfural with Acetone

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3046; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233046 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

The integration of metal oxide nanomaterials with mesoporous silica is a promising approach to exploiting the advantages of both types of materials. Traditional synthesis methods typically require multiple steps. This work instead presents a fast, one-step, template-free method for the synthesis of metal oxides homogeneously dispersed within mesoporous silica, including oxides of W, Ti, Nb, Ta, Sn, and Mo. These composites have tunable metal oxide contents, large surface areas, and wide mesopores. The combination of Nb₂O₅ nanoparticles (NPs) with SiO₂ results in an increased surface area and a larger number of acid sites compared to pure Nb₂O₅ NPs. The surface texture and acidity of the silica–niobia composites can be tuned by adjusting the Nb/Si molar ratio. Moreover, the silica provides protection to the niobia NPs, preventing sintering during thermal treatment at 400 °C. The silica–niobia materials exhibit superior performance as catalysts in the aldol condensation of furfural (Fur) with acetone compared to pure niobia, leading to an up to 74% in product yield. Additionally, these catalysts show remarkable stability, retaining their performance over multiple runs. This work demonstrates the potential of the proposed synthesis approach for preparing more sustainable, high-performance, durable, and stable nanoscale metal oxide-based catalysts with a tunable composition, surface area, and active site density. Full article

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14 pages, 2603 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring Tools and Strategies for Effective Electrokinetic Nanoparticle Treatment

Huayuan Zhong

and

Henry E. Cardenas

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3045; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233045 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Nanoparticles are increasingly being used by industry to enhance the outcomes of various chemical processes. In many cases, these processes involve over-dosages that compensate for particle losses. At best, these unique waste streams end up in landfills. This circumstance is inefficient and coupled with uncertain impacts on the environment. Pozzolanic nanoparticle treatments have been found to provide remarkable benefits for strength restoration and the mitigation of durability problems in ordinary Portland cement and concrete. These treatments have been accompanied by significant particle losses stemming from over-dosages and instability of the colloidal suspensions that are used to deliver these materials into the pore structure. In this study, new methods involving simple tools have been developed to monitor and sustain suspension stability. Turbidity measurement was introduced to monitor the progress of electrokinetic nanoparticle treatment. This tool made it possible to amend a given dosing strategy in real time while it remains possible to make effective treatment adjustments. By monitoring the particle stability and using pH and electric field controls to avoid suspension collapse, successful electrokinetic treatment dosage strategies were demonstrated using 20 nm NALCO 1056 alumina-coated silica particles. These trials indicated that turbidity measurements could track the visually imperceptible phenomena of particle flocking early on at the inception of its development. Suspensions of these nanoparticles were successfully delivered into 5 cm diameter by 10 cm tall hardended cement paste (HCP) specimens by monitoring fluid turbidity along with the specific gravity and using these values to guide the active management of the treatment dosage and pH. Under this new strategy, these losses were reduced to 5% as compared to the 80% losses associated with other treatment approaches. The relationship between the turbidity and the specific gravity was found to be linear. These plots indicated regions of turbidity and specific gravity that were associated with particle flocking. The tools, guidelines, and strategies developed in this work made it possible to manage efficient (low-particle-loss) electrokinetic nanoparticle treatments by signaling in real time when adjustments to electric field, pH, and particle dosage increments were needed. Full article

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18 pages, 2899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cytotoxicity of PEG-Coated Gold and Gold–Iron Alloy Nanoparticles: ROS or Ferroptosis?

Clara M. G. de Faria

Michael Bissoli

Riccardo Vago

Antonello E. Spinelli

and

Vincenzo Amendola

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3044; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233044 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Nanomedicine relies on the exploitation of nanoscale constructs for therapeutic and diagnostic functions. Gold and gold–iron alloy nanoparticles (NPs) are two examples of nanomaterials with favorable features for use in nanomedicine. While gold NPs have been studied extensively in the last decades, they are not biodegradable. Nonetheless, biodegradation was recently observed in gold alloys with iron obtained using laser ablation in liquid (LAL). Hence, there is a significant interest in the study of the biological effects of gold and gold–iron alloy nanoparticles, starting from their tolerability and cytotoxicity. In this study, these two classes of NPs, obtained via LAL and coated with biocompatible polymers such as polyethylene glycol, were investigated in terms of their cytotoxicity in fibroblasts, prostate cancer cells (PC3) and embryonic kidney cells (HEK). We also explored the effects of different synthetic procedures, stabilizing additives, and the possible mechanisms behind cell mortality such as the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or ferroptosis. NPs larger than 200 nm were associated with lower cell tolerability. The most tolerable formulations were pure PEG-Au NPs, followed by PEG-Au–Fe NPs with a hydrodynamic size < 50 nm, which displayed a toxicity of only 20% in fibroblasts after 72 h of incubation. In addition, tumor cells and highly proliferating HEK cells are more sensitive to the NPs than fibroblasts. However, a protective effect of catalase was found for cells incubated with PEG-Au–Fe NPs, indicating an important role of hydrogen peroxide in alloy NP interactions with cells. These results are crucial for directing future synthetic efforts for the realization of biocompatible Au NPs and biodegradable and cytocompatible Au–Fe alloy NPs. Moreover, the correlation of the cytocompatibility of NPs with ROS and ferroptosis in cells is of general interest and applicability to other types of nanomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Biomedical Applications of Laser-Generated Colloids)

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13 pages, 2989 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Diamond/Graphene/Diamond Electrode for Waste Water Treatment

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3043; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233043 - 29 Nov 2023

Abstract

Boron-doped diamond (BDD) thin film electrodes have great application potential in water treatment. However, the high electrode energy consumption due to high resistance directly limits the application range of existing BDD electrodes. In this paper, the BDD/graphene/BDD (DGD) sandwich structure electrode was prepared, which effectively improved the conductivity of the electrode. Meanwhile, the sandwich electrode can effectively avoid the degradation of electrode performance caused by the large amount of non-diamond carbon introduced by heavy doping, such as the reduction of the electrochemical window and the decrease of physical and chemical stability. The microstructure and composition of the film were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Then, the degradation performance of citric acid (CA), catechol, and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) by DGD electrodes was systematically studied by total organic carbon (TOC) and Energy consumption per unit TOC removal (EC_TOC). Compared with the single BDD electrode, the new DGD electrode improves the mobility of the electrode and reduces the mass transfer resistance by 1/3, showing better water treatment performance. In the process of dealing with Citric acid, the step current of the DGD electrode was 1.35 times that of the BDD electrode, and the energy utilization ratio of the DGD electrode was 2.4 times that of the BDD electrode. The energy consumption per unit TOC removal (EC_TOC) of the DGD electrode was lower than that of BDD, especially Catechol, which was reduced to 66.9% of BDD. The DGD sandwich electrode, as a new electrode material, has good electrochemical degradation performance and can be used for high-efficiency electrocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Applications)

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14 pages, 1878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Nanoporous Adsorbent for Pesticides Obtained from Biogenic Calcium Carbonate Derived from Waste Crab Shells

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Nanomaterials 2023, 13(23), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13233042 - 28 Nov 2023

Abstract

A novel nanoporous adsorbent was obtained through the thermal treatment and chemical wash of the wasted crab shells (BC1) and characterized by various techniques. The structure of BC1 at the end of the treatments comprised a mixture of calcite and amorphous CaCO₃, as evidenced by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared absorption. The BET surface area, BET pore volume, and pore diameter were 250.33 m² g⁻¹, 0.4 cm³ g⁻¹, and <70 nm, respectively. The point of zero charge of BC1 was determined to be around pH 9. The prepared adsorbent was tested for its adsorption efficacy towards the neonicotinoid pesticide acetamiprid. The influence of pH (2–10), temperature (20–45 °C), adsorbent dose (0.2–1.2 g L⁻¹), contact time (5–60 min), and initial pesticide concentration (10–60 mg L⁻¹) on the adsorption process of acetamiprid on BC1 was studied. The adsorption capacity of BC1 was 17.8 mg g⁻¹ under optimum conditions (i.e., 20 mg L⁻¹ initial acetamiprid concentration, pH 8, 1 g L⁻¹ adsorbent dose, 25 °C, and 15 min contact time). The equilibrium data obtained from the adsorption experiment fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm model. We developed an effective nanoporous adsorbent for the recycling of crab shells which can be applied on site with minimal laboratory infrastructure according to local needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Porous Nanomaterials for Adsorption)

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