Journal Description
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials
is an international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary scholarly open access journal, published semimonthly online by MDPI. It publishes reviews, regular research papers, communications, and short notes that are relevant to any field of study that involves nanomaterials, with respect to their science and application. The Spanish Carbon Group (GEC) is affiliated with Nanomaterials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- 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 13.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second 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)
Latest Articles
MOF-Enhanced Aluminosilicate Ceramic Membranes Using Non-Firing Processes for Pesticide Filtration and Phytochrome Removal
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110944 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Aluminosilicates, abundant and crucial in both natural environments and industry, often involve uncontrollable chemical components when derived from minerals, making further chemical purification and reaction more complicated. This study utilizes pure alumina and fumed silica powders as more controllable sources, enhancing aluminosilicate reactivity
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Aluminosilicates, abundant and crucial in both natural environments and industry, often involve uncontrollable chemical components when derived from minerals, making further chemical purification and reaction more complicated. This study utilizes pure alumina and fumed silica powders as more controllable sources, enhancing aluminosilicate reactivity through room temperature (non-firing) processing and providing a robust framework that resists mechanical stress and high temperature. By embedding iron-based metal–organic frameworks (Fe-MOF/non-firing aluminosilicate membranes) within the above matrix, these ceramic membranes not only preserve their mechanical robustness but also gain significant chemical functionality, enhancing their capacity to removing phytochromes from the vegetables. Sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate were selected as activators to successfully prepare high-strength, non-firing aluminosilicate membranes. These membranes demonstrated a flexural strength of 8.7 MPa under wet-culture conditions with a molar ratio of Al2O3:SiO2:NaOH:Na2SiO3 at 1:1:0.49:0.16. The chlorophyll adsorption of spinach conducted on these membranes showed a removal rate exceeding 90% at room temperature and pH = 9, highlighting its potential for the selective adsorption of chlorophyll. This study underscores the potential of MOF-enhanced aluminosilicate ceramic membranes in environmental applications, particularly for agricultural pollution control.
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(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Facile Synthesis to Porous TiO2 Nanostructures at Low Temperature for Efficient Visible-Light Degradation of Tetracycline
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Peng Lian, Aimiao Qin, Zhisen Liu, Hao Ma, Lei Liao, Kaiyou Zhang and Ning Li
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110943 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures was synthesized on a large scale by a facile one-step solvothermal method at a low temperature. A series of characterizations was performed and carried out on the as-prepared photocatalysts, which were applied to the
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In this study, nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures was synthesized on a large scale by a facile one-step solvothermal method at a low temperature. A series of characterizations was performed and carried out on the as-prepared photocatalysts, which were applied to the degradation of the antibiotic tetracycline (TC). The results demonstrated that nanoporous TiO2 obtained at a solvothermal temperature of 100 °C had a spherical morphology with high crystallinity and a relatively large specific surface area, composed of a large number of nanospheres. The nanoporous TiO2 with hierarchical micro/nanostructures exhibited excellent photocatalytic degradation activity for TC under simulated sunlight. The degradation rate was close to 100% after 30 min of UV light irradiation, and reached 79% only after 60 min of visible light irradiation, which was much better than the photodegradation performance of commercial TiO2 (only 29%). Moreover, the possible intermediates formed during the photocatalytic degradation of TC were explored by the density functional theory calculations and HPLC-MS spectra. Furthermore, two possible degradation routes were proposed, which provided experimental and theoretical support for the photocatalytic degradation of TC. In this study, we provide a new approach for the hierarchical micro/nanostructure of nanoporous TiO2, which can be applied in industrial manufacturing fields.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Photocatalysis)
Open AccessReview
Laser-Scribed Graphene for Human Health Monitoring: From Biophysical Sensing to Biochemical Sensing
by
Yakang Li, Yaxin Li, Sirui Wu, Xuewen Wu and Jian Shu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110942 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Laser-scribed graphene (LSG), a classic three-dimensional porous carbon nanomaterial, is directly fabricated by laser irradiation of substrate materials. Benefiting from its excellent electrical and mechanical properties, along with flexible and simple preparation process, LSG has played a significant role in the field of
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Laser-scribed graphene (LSG), a classic three-dimensional porous carbon nanomaterial, is directly fabricated by laser irradiation of substrate materials. Benefiting from its excellent electrical and mechanical properties, along with flexible and simple preparation process, LSG has played a significant role in the field of flexible sensors. This review provides an overview of the critical factors in fabrication, and methods for enhancing the functionality of LSG. It also highlights progress and trends in LSG-based sensors for monitoring physiological indicators, with an emphasis on device fabrication, signal transduction, and sensing characteristics. Finally, we offer insights into the current challenges and future prospects of LSG-based sensors for health monitoring and disease diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and Graphene-Based Polymer Composites: From Preparation to Applications)
Open AccessArticle
Carbon Dot Synthesis in CYTOP Optical Fiber Using IR Femtosecond Laser Direct Writing and Its Luminescence Properties
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Ruyue Que, Jean-Frédéric Audibert, Enrique Garcia-Caurel, Olivier Plantevin, Kyriacos Kalli, Matthieu Lancry, Bertrand Poumellec and Robert B. Pansu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110941 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Luminescent carbon dots (CDs) were locally synthesized in the core of CYTOP fibers using IR femtosecond laser direct writing (FLDW), a one-step simple method serving as a post-treatment of the pristine fiber. This approach enables the creation of several types of modifications such
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Luminescent carbon dots (CDs) were locally synthesized in the core of CYTOP fibers using IR femtosecond laser direct writing (FLDW), a one-step simple method serving as a post-treatment of the pristine fiber. This approach enables the creation of several types of modifications such as ellipsoid voids. The CDs and photoluminescence (PL) distribute at the periphery of the voids. The PL spectral properties were studied through the excitation/emission matrix in the visible range and excitation/emission spectra in the UV/visible range. Our findings reveal the presence of at least three distinct luminescent species, facilitating a broad excitation range extending from UV to green, and light emission spanning from blue to red. The average laser power and dose influence the quantity and ratio of these luminescent CD species. Additionally, we measured the spatially resolved lifetime of the luminescence during and after the irradiation. We found longer lifetimes at the periphery of the laser-induced modified regions and shorter ones closer to the center, with a dominant lifetime ~2 ns. Notably, unlike many other luminophores, these laser-induced CDs are insensitive to oxygen, enhancing their potential for display or data storage applications.
Full article
Open AccessReview
Advancements in Micro-LED Performance through Nanomaterials and Nanostructures: A Review
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Aoqi Fang, Zaifa Du, Weiling Guo, Jixin Liu, Hao Xu, Penghao Tang and Jie Sun
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110940 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Micro-light-emitting diodes (μLEDs), with their advantages of high response speed, long lifespan, high brightness, and reliability, are widely regarded as the core of next-generation display technology. However, due to issues such as high manufacturing costs and low external quantum efficiency (EQE), μLEDs have
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Micro-light-emitting diodes (μLEDs), with their advantages of high response speed, long lifespan, high brightness, and reliability, are widely regarded as the core of next-generation display technology. However, due to issues such as high manufacturing costs and low external quantum efficiency (EQE), μLEDs have not yet been truly commercialized. Additionally, the color conversion efficiency (CCE) of quantum dot (QD)-μLEDs is also a major obstacle to its practical application in the display industry. In this review, we systematically summarize the recent applications of nanomaterials and nanostructures in μLEDs and discuss the practical effects of these methods on enhancing the luminous efficiency of μLEDs and the color conversion efficiency of QD-μLEDs. Finally, the challenges and future prospects for the commercialization of μLEDs are proposed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Photonic and Electronic Devices Based on Semiconductor Nanomaterials)
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Open AccessArticle
Magnet-Guided Temozolomide and Ferucarbotran Loaded Nanoparticles to Enhance Therapeutic Efficacy in Glioma Model
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Reju George Thomas, Subin Kim, Thi-Anh-Thuy Tran, Young Hee Kim, Raveena Nagareddy, Tae-Young Jung, Seul Kee Kim and Yong Yeon Jeong
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110939 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Background. The aim of the study was to synthesize liposomal nanoparticles loaded with temozolomide and ferucarbotran (LTF) and to evaluate the theranostic effect of LTF in the glioma model. Methods. We synthesized an LTF that could pass through the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB)
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Background. The aim of the study was to synthesize liposomal nanoparticles loaded with temozolomide and ferucarbotran (LTF) and to evaluate the theranostic effect of LTF in the glioma model. Methods. We synthesized an LTF that could pass through the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) and localize in brain tumor tissue with the help of magnet guidance. We examined the chemical characteristics. Cellular uptake and cytotoxicity studies were conducted in vitro. A biodistribution and tumor inhibition study was conduted using an in vivo glioma model. Results. The particle size and surface charge of LTF show 108 nm and −38 mV, respectively. Additionally, the presence of ferucarbotran significantly increased the contrast agent effect of glioma compared to the control group in MR imaging. Magnet-guided LTF significantly reduced the tumor size compared to control and other groups. Furthermore, compared to the control group, our results demonstrate a significant inhibition in brain tumor size and an increase in lifespan. Conclusions. These findings suggest that the LTF with magnetic guidance represents a novel approach to address current obstacles, such as BBB penetration of nanoparticles and drug resistance. Magnet-guided LTF is able to enhance therapeutic efficacy in mouse brain glioma.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Nanomaterials in Biomedical Imaging and Cancer Therapy II)
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Open AccessArticle
A Colloidal-Quantum-Dot Integrated U-Shape Micro-Light-Emitting-Diode and Its Photonic Characteristics
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Yu-Ming Jao, Bo-Ming Huang, Ching Chang, Fang-Zhong Lin, Guan-Ying Lee, Chung-Ping Huang, Hao-Chung Kuo, Min-Hsiung Shih and Chien-Chung Lin
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110938 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
A special micro LED whose light emitting area is laid out in a U-like shape is fabricated and integrated with colloidal quantum dots (CQDs). An inkjet-type machine directly dispenses the CQD layer to the central courtyard-like area of this U-shape micro LED. The
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A special micro LED whose light emitting area is laid out in a U-like shape is fabricated and integrated with colloidal quantum dots (CQDs). An inkjet-type machine directly dispenses the CQD layer to the central courtyard-like area of this U-shape micro LED. The blue photons emitted by the U-shape mesa with InGaN/GaN quantum wells can excite the CQDs at the central courtyard area and be converted into green or red ones. The U-shape micro LEDs are coated with Al2O3 by an atomic layer deposition system and exhibit moderate external quantum efficiency (6.51% max.) and high surface recombination because of their long peripheries. Low-temperature measurement also confirms the recovery of the external quantum efficiency due to lower non-radiative recombination from the exposed surfaces. The color conversion efficiency brought by the CQD layer can be as high as 33.90%. A further continuous CQD aging test, which was evaluated by the strength of the CQD emission, under current densities of 100 A/cm2 and 200 A/cm2 injected into the micro LED, showed a lifetime extension of the unprotected CQD emission up to 1321 min in the U-shape device compared to a 39 min lifetime in the traditional case, where the same CQD layer was placed on the top surface of a squared LED.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells and Light-Emitting Diodes)
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Open AccessArticle
Amorphous Fe2O3 Anchored on N-Doped Graphene with Internal Micro-Channels as an Active and Durable Anode for Sodium-Ion Batteries
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Lin Li, Hui Li, Linxin Liu, Xunchang Yan, Yunze Long and Wenpeng Han
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110937 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) exhibits outstanding electrical conductivity and a high specific surface area, making it a promising material for various applications. Fe2O3 is highly desirable due to its significant theoretical capacity and cost-effectiveness, high abundance, and environmental friendliness.
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The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) exhibits outstanding electrical conductivity and a high specific surface area, making it a promising material for various applications. Fe2O3 is highly desirable due to its significant theoretical capacity and cost-effectiveness, high abundance, and environmental friendliness. However, the performance of these r-GO/Fe2O3 composite electrodes still needs to be further improved, especially in terms of cycle stability. The composite of Fe2O3 anchored on N-doped graphene with inside micro-channels (Fe2O3@N-GIMC) was used to be efficiently prepared. Because the inside channels can furnish extra transmission pathways and absorption websites and the interconnected structure can efficaciously forestall pulverization and aggregation of electrode materials. In addition, N doping is also beneficial to improve its electrochemical performance. Thus, it demonstrates exceptional sodium storage characteristics, including notable electrochemical activity, impressive initial Coulombic efficiency, and favorable rate performance. The optimized Fe2O3@N-GIMC indicates outstanding discharge capacity (573.5 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), significant rate performance (333.6 mAh g−1 at 8 A g−1), and stable long-term cycle durability (308.9 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1, 200.8 mAh g−1 after 4000 cycles at 1 A g−1) as a sodium-ion battery anode. This presents a new approach for preparing graphene-based high-functional composites and lays a stable basis for further expanding its application field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis & Devices of Graphene-Based 2D Nanomaterials for Energy Storage and Conversion)
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Open AccessCommunication
Fabrication of WO3 Quantum Dots with Different Emitting Colors and Their Utilization in Luminescent Woods
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Kwang Hyun Park, Nam Chul Kim and Sung Ho Song
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110936 - 27 May 2024
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With a rising interest in smart windows and optical displays, the utilization of metal oxides (MOs) has garnered significant attention owing to their high active sites, flexibility, and tunable electronic and optical properties. Despite these advantages, achieving precise tuning of optical properties in
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With a rising interest in smart windows and optical displays, the utilization of metal oxides (MOs) has garnered significant attention owing to their high active sites, flexibility, and tunable electronic and optical properties. Despite these advantages, achieving precise tuning of optical properties in MOs-based quantum dots and their mass production remains a challenge. In this study, we present an easily scalable approach to generate WO3 quantum dots with diverse sizes through sequential insertion/exfoliation processes in solvents with suitable surface tension. Additionally, we utilized the prepared WO3 quantum dots in the fabrication of luminescent transparent wood via an impregnation process. These quantum dots manifested three distinct emitting colors: red, green, and blue. Through characterizations of the structural and optical properties of the WO3 quantum dots, we verified that quantum dots with sizes around 30 nm, 50 nm, and 70 nm showcase a monoclinic crystal structure with oxygen-related defect sites. Notably, as the size of the WO3 quantum dots decreased, the maximum emitting peak underwent a blue shift, with peaks observed at 407 nm (blue), 493 nm (green), and 676 nm (red) under excitation by a He-Cd laser (310 nm), respectively. Transparent woods infused with various WO3 quantum dots exhibited luminescence in blue/white emitting colors. These results suggest substantial potential in diverse applications, such as building materials and optoelectronics.
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Open AccessArticle
Oxygen Vacancy-Enhanced Ni3N-CeO2/NF Nanoparticle Catalysts for Efficient and Stable Electrolytic Water Splitting
by
Xianghao Meng, Xin Zhao, Yulin Min, Qiaoxia Li and Qunjie Xu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110935 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Highly efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts are of critical significance in the domain of water electrolysis. In this study, a Ni3N-CeO2/NF heterostructure is synthesized through a facile hydrothermal technique followed by a subsequent nitridation process. This catalyst is endowed with
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Highly efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts are of critical significance in the domain of water electrolysis. In this study, a Ni3N-CeO2/NF heterostructure is synthesized through a facile hydrothermal technique followed by a subsequent nitridation process. This catalyst is endowed with an abundance of oxygen vacancies, thereby conferring a richer array of active sites. Therefore, the catalyst demonstrates a markedly low overpotential of 350 mV for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) at 50 mA cm−2 and a low overpotential of 42 mV for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) at 10 mA cm−2. Serving as a dual-function electrode, this electrocatalyst is employed in overall water splitting in alkaline environments, demonstrating impressive efficiency at a cell voltage of 1.52 V of 10 mA cm−2. The in situ Raman spectroscopic analysis demonstrates that cerium dioxide (CeO2) facilitates the rapid reconfiguration of oxygen vacancy-enriched nickel oxyhydroxide (NiOOH), thereby enhancing the OER performance. This investigation elucidates the catalytic role of CeO2 in augmenting the OER efficiency of nickel nitride (Ni3N) for water electrolysis, offering valuable insights for the design of high-performance bifunctional catalysts tailored for water splitting applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen/Oxygen Evolution Reaction)
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Open AccessArticle
DC-free Method to Evaluate Nanoscale Equivalent Oxide Thickness: Dark-Mode Scanning Capacitance Microscopy
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Mao-Nan Chang, Yi-Shan Wu, Chiao-Jung Lin, Yu-Hsun Hsueh, Chun-Jung Su and Yao-Jen Lee
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110934 - 26 May 2024
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This study developed a DC-free technique that used dark-mode scanning capacitance microscopy (DM-SCM) with a small-area contact electrode to evaluate and image equivalent oxide thicknesses (EOTs). In contrast to the conventional capacitance–voltage (C–V) method, which requires a large-area contact electrode and DC voltage
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This study developed a DC-free technique that used dark-mode scanning capacitance microscopy (DM-SCM) with a small-area contact electrode to evaluate and image equivalent oxide thicknesses (EOTs). In contrast to the conventional capacitance–voltage (C–V) method, which requires a large-area contact electrode and DC voltage sweeping to provide reliable C–V curves from which the EOT can be determined, the proposed method enabled the evaluation of the EOT to a few nanometers for thermal and high-k oxides. The signal intensity equation defining the voltage modulation efficiency in scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) indicates that thermal oxide films on silicon can serve as calibration references for the establishment of a linear relationship between the SCM signal ratio and the EOT ratio; the EOT is then determined from this relationship. Experimental results for thermal oxide films demonstrated that the EOT obtained using the DM-SCM approach closely matched the value obtained using the typical C–V method for frequencies ranging from 90 kHz to 1 MHz. The percentage differences in EOT values between the C–V and SCM measurements were smaller than 0.5%. For high-k oxide films, DM-SCM with a DC-free operation may mitigate the effect of DC voltages on evaluations of EOTs. In addition, image operations were performed to obtain EOT images showing the EOT variation induced by DC-stress-induced charge trapping. Compared with the typical C–V method, the proposed DM-SCM approach not only provides a DC-free approach for EOT evaluation, but also offers a valuable opportunity to visualize the EOT distribution before and after the application of DC stress.
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Open AccessArticle
Chlorin e6-Conjugated Mesoporous Titania Nanorods as Potential Nanoplatform for Photo-Chemotherapy
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Estefanía Vélez-Peña, Verónica A. Jiménez, Joaquín Manzo-Merino, Joel B. Alderete and Cristian H. Campos
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110933 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed as an efficient strategy for cancer treatment. PDT involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by light irradiation after activating a photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of O2. PS-coupled nanomaterials offer additional advantages, as they
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Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed as an efficient strategy for cancer treatment. PDT involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by light irradiation after activating a photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of O2. PS-coupled nanomaterials offer additional advantages, as they can merge the effects of PDT with conventional enabling-combined photo-chemotherapeutics effects. In this work, mesoporous titania nanorods were surface-immobilized with Chlorin e6 (Ce6) conjugated through 3-(aminopropyl)-trimethoxysilane as a coupling agent. The mesoporous nanorods act as nano vehicles for doxorubicin delivery, and the Ce6 provides a visible light-responsive production of ROS to induce PDT. The nanomaterials were characterized by XRD, DRS, FTIR, TGA, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms at 77 K, and TEM. The obtained materials were tested for their singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radical generation capacity using fluorescence assays. In vitro cell viability experiments with HeLa cells showed that the prepared materials are not cytotoxic in the dark, and that they exhibit photodynamic activity when irradiated with LED light (150 W m−2). Drug-loading experiments with doxorubicin (DOX) as a model chemotherapeutic drug showed that the nanostructures efficiently encapsulated DOX. The DOX-nanomaterial formulations show chemo-cytotoxic effects on Hela cells. Combined photo-chemotoxicity experiments show enhanced effects on HeLa cell viability, indicating that the conjugated nanorods are promising for use in combined therapy driven by LED light irradiation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Study of the Effects of Nanoparticles on Human Cells)
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Open AccessArticle
Two-Dimensional MoS2 Nanosheets Derived from Cathodic Exfoliation for Lithium Storage Applications
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Alberto Martínez-Jódar, Silvia Villar-Rodil, José M. Munuera, Alberto Castro-Muñiz, Jonathan N. Coleman, Encarnación Raymundo-Piñero and Juan I. Paredes
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110932 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The preparation of 2H-phase MoS2 thin nanosheets by electrochemical delamination remains a challenge, despite numerous efforts in this direction. In this work, by choosing appropriate intercalating cations for cathodic delamination, the insertion process was facilitated, leading to a higher degree of exfoliation
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The preparation of 2H-phase MoS2 thin nanosheets by electrochemical delamination remains a challenge, despite numerous efforts in this direction. In this work, by choosing appropriate intercalating cations for cathodic delamination, the insertion process was facilitated, leading to a higher degree of exfoliation while maintaining the original 2H-phase of the starting bulk MoS2 material. Specifically, trimethylalkylammonium cations were tested as electrolytes, outperforming their bulkier tetraalkylammonium counterparts, which have been the focus of past studies. The performance of novel electrochemically derived 2H-phase MoS2 nanosheets as electrode material for electrochemical energy storage in lithium-ion batteries was investigated. The lower thickness and thus higher flexibility of cathodically exfoliated MoS2 promoted better electrochemical performance compared to liquid-phase and ultrasonically assisted exfoliated MoS2, both in terms of capacity (447 vs. 371 mA·h·g−1 at 0.2 A·g−1) and rate capability (30% vs. 8% capacity retained when the current density was increased from 0.2 A·g−1 to 5 A·g−1), as well as cycle life (44% vs. 17% capacity retention at 0.2 A·g−1 after 580 cycles). Overall, the present work provides a convenient route for obtaining MoS2 thin nanosheets for their advantageous use as anode material for lithium storage.
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(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)
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Open AccessArticle
Strategy for Ensuring the Metrological Traceability of Nanoparticle Size Measurements by SEM
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Nicolas Feltin, Alexandra Delvallée and Loïc Crouzier
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110931 - 25 May 2024
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The concept of measurement traceability is crucial for ensuring the data reliability and the comparability of measurement results provided by different instruments and operators. In the field of nanoparticle metrology, determining the size of nanoparticles using electron microscopy-based techniques remains a real challenge.
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The concept of measurement traceability is crucial for ensuring the data reliability and the comparability of measurement results provided by different instruments and operators. In the field of nanoparticle metrology, determining the size of nanoparticles using electron microscopy-based techniques remains a real challenge. In laboratory settings, the establishment of traceability regarding the instrument calibration procedures, the assessment of uncertainties associated with instruments/operators/samples/environments, as well as the complexities related to electron–sample interactions, are often neglected. In this article, we describe the calibration procedure set up at the LNE (Laboratoire National de métrologie et d’Essais) and propose an evaluation method for determining the uncertainties in measuring nanoparticle size by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). This study investigates the impact of the energy of the primary electrons (PEs) generated by the electron beam and accelerating voltage on the reliability of size measurements. The convolution between the signals coming from a nanoparticle and the substrate on which the particle is deposited induces edge effects that can have a negative impact on the measurement results. Finally, a diagram describing the various stages involved in establishing traceability for SEM measurements of nanoparticle size is proposed to facilitate the work of future operators.
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Open AccessArticle
Development and Fabrication of a Multi-Layer Planar Solar Light Absorber Achieving High Absorptivity and Ultra-Wideband Response from Visible Light to Infrared
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Cheng-Fu Yang, Chih-Hsuan Wang, Pei-Xiu Ke, Teen-Hang Meen and Kuei-Kuei Lai
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110930 - 25 May 2024
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The objective of this study is to create a planar solar light absorber that exhibits exceptional absorption characteristics spanning from visible light to infrared across an ultra-wide spectral range. The eight layered structures of the absorber, from top to bottom, consisted of Al
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The objective of this study is to create a planar solar light absorber that exhibits exceptional absorption characteristics spanning from visible light to infrared across an ultra-wide spectral range. The eight layered structures of the absorber, from top to bottom, consisted of Al2O3, Ti, Al2O3, Ti, Al2O3, Ni, Al2O3, and Al. The COMSOL Multiphysics® simulation software (version 6.0) was utilized to construct the absorber model and perform simulation analyses. The first significant finding of this study is that as compared to absorbers featuring seven-layered structures (excluding the top Al2O3 layer) or using TiO2 or SiO2 layers as substituted for Al2O3 layer, the presence of the top Al2O3 layer demonstrated superior anti-reflection properties. Another noteworthy finding was that the top Al2O3 layer provided better impedance matching compared to scenarios where it was absent or replaced with TiO2 or SiO2 layers, enhancing the absorber’s overall efficiency. Consequently, across the ultra-wideband spectrum spanning 350 to 1970 nm, the average absorptivity reached an impressive 96.76%. One significant novelty of this study was the utilization of various top-layer materials to assess the absorption and reflection spectra, along with the optical-impedance-matching properties of the designed absorber. Another notable contribution was the successful implementation of evaporation techniques for depositing and manufacturing this optimized absorber. A further innovation involved the use of transmission electron microscopy to observe the thickness of each deposition layer. Subsequently, the simulated and calculated absorption spectra of solar energy across the AM1.5 spectrum for both the designed and fabricated absorbers were compared, demonstrating a match between the measured and simulated results.
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Open AccessArticle
Structured-Light 3D Imaging Based on Vector Iterative Fourier Transform Algorithm
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Runzhe Zhang, Siyuan Qiao, Yixiong Luo, Yinghui Guo, Xiaoyin Li, Qi Zhang, Yulong Fan, Zeyu Zhao and Xiangang Luo
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110929 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces overcome the side effects imposed by high-order diffraction on imaging and can impart optical parameters such as amplitude, phase, polarization, and frequency to incident light at sub-wavelength scales with high efficiency. Structured-light three-dimensional (3D) imaging is a hot topic in the
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Quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces overcome the side effects imposed by high-order diffraction on imaging and can impart optical parameters such as amplitude, phase, polarization, and frequency to incident light at sub-wavelength scales with high efficiency. Structured-light three-dimensional (3D) imaging is a hot topic in the field of 3D imaging because of its advantages of low computation cost, high imaging accuracy, fast imaging speed, and cost-effectiveness. Structured-light 3D imaging requires uniform diffractive optical elements (DOEs), which could be realized by quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces. In this paper, we design a quasi-continuous-phase metasurface beam splitter through a vector iterative Fourier transform algorithm and utilize this device to realize structured-light 3D imaging of a target object with subsequent target reconstruction. A structured-light 3D imaging system is then experimentally implemented by combining the fabricated quasi-continuous-phase metasurface illuminated by the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser and a binocular recognition system, which eventually provides a new technological path for the 3D imaging field.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Photonic and Plasmonic Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
A Comprehensive Study of NF3-Based Selective Etching Processes: Application to the Fabrication of Vertically Stacked Horizontal Gate-All-around Si Nanosheet Transistors
by
Xin Sun, Jiayang Li, Lewen Qian, Dawei Wang, Ziqiang Huang, Xinlong Guo, Tao Liu, Saisheng Xu, Liming Wang, Min Xu and David Wei Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110928 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we demonstrate a comprehensive study of NF3-based selective etching processes for inner spacer formation and for channel release, enabling stacked horizontal gate-all-around Si nanosheet transistor architectures. A cyclic etching process consisting of an oxidation treatment step and an
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In this paper, we demonstrate a comprehensive study of NF3-based selective etching processes for inner spacer formation and for channel release, enabling stacked horizontal gate-all-around Si nanosheet transistor architectures. A cyclic etching process consisting of an oxidation treatment step and an etching step is proposed and used for SiGe selective etching. The cyclic etching process exhibits a slower etching rate and higher etching selectivity compared to the direct etching process. The cycle etching process consisting of Recipe 1, which has a SiGe etching rate of 0.98 nm/cycle, is used for the cavity etch. The process achieved good interlayer uniformity of cavity depth (cavity depth ≤ 5 ± 0.3 nm), while also obtaining a near-ideal rectangular SiGe etch front shape (inner spacer shape = 0.84) and little Si loss (0.44 nm@ each side). The cycle etching process consisting of Recipe 4 with extremely high etching selectivity is used for channel release. The process realizes the channel release of nanosheets with a multi-width from 30 nm to 80 nm with little Si loss. In addition, a selective isotropic etching process using NF3/O2/Ar gas mixture is used to etch back the SiN film. The impact of the O2/NF3 ratio on the etching selectivity of SiN to Si and the surface roughness of SiN after etching is investigated. With the introduction of O2 into NF3/Ar discharge, the selectivity increases sharply, but when the ratio of O2/NF3 is up to 1.0, the selectivity tends to a constant value and the surface roughness of SiN increases rapidly. The optimal parameter is O2/NF3 = 0.5, resulting in a selectivity of 5.4 and a roughness of 0.19 nm.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanosheets for Carbon Neutrality and Electronic Devices)
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Open AccessArticle
Termiticidal Effects and Morpho-Histological Alterations in the Subterranean Termite (Odontotermes formosanus) Induced by Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, and Chitosan Nanoparticles
by
Raghda Nasser, Ezzeldin Ibrahim, Hatem Fouad, Farhan Ahmad, Wuhan Li, Qihuan Zhou, Ting Yu, Nooney Chidwala and Jianchu Mo
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110927 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Recently, nanoparticles have been widely used in agricultural pest control as a secure substitute for pesticides. However, the effect of nanoparticles on controlling the subterranean termite Odontotermes formosanus (O. formosanus) has not been studied yet. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate
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Recently, nanoparticles have been widely used in agricultural pest control as a secure substitute for pesticides. However, the effect of nanoparticles on controlling the subterranean termite Odontotermes formosanus (O. formosanus) has not been studied yet. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of some nanomaterials in controlling O. formosanus. The results showed that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs), and chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) biosynthesized using the culture filtrate of Scedosporium apiospermum (S. apiospermum) had an effective role in controlling O. formosanus. Moreover, the mortality rate of O. formosanus after 48 h of treatment with ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs at a 1000 µg/mL concentration was 100%, 100%, and 97.67%, respectively. Furthermore, using ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs on O. formosanus resulted in morpho-histological variations in the normal structure, leading to its death. X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and the Zeta potential were used to characterize the biosynthesis of ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs with strong activity against O. formosanus termites. Overall, the results of this investigation suggest that biosynthesized ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs have enormous potential for use as innovative, ecologically safe pesticides for O. formosanus control.
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Open AccessArticle
Facile Preparation of Magnetically Separable Fe3O4/ZnO Nanocomposite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity for Degradation of Rhodamine B
by
Li Qi, Siyu Wang, Yun Liu, Peng Zhao, Jing Tian, Baolin Zhu, Shoumin Zhang, Wenqi Xie and Huanhuan Yu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110926 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Magnetic separation of photocatalysts holds great promise for water treatment. A magnetic separation method has a positive effect on the recovery of catalysts after degradation. In this paper, an efficient and reusable catalytic system is developed based on coating magnetic Fe3O
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Magnetic separation of photocatalysts holds great promise for water treatment. A magnetic separation method has a positive effect on the recovery of catalysts after degradation. In this paper, an efficient and reusable catalytic system is developed based on coating magnetic Fe3O4 by depositing Fe2+ on the surface of ZnO. The Fe3O4/ZnO nanocomposite exhibits enhanced performance for organic pollutant degradation. The Fe3O4/ZnO system demonstrates a high photocatalytic activity of 100% degradation efficiency in Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation under UV light irradiation for 50 min. The excellent photocatalytic activity is primarily due to the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs being facilitated by the strong interaction between Fe3O4 and ZnO. The induction of the magnetic Fe3O4 endows the Fe3O4/ZnO composite with superior magnetic separation capability from water. Experiments with different radical scavengers revealed that the hydroxyl radical (·OH) is the key reactive radical for the effective degradation of RhB. This work innovatively affords a common interfacial dopant deposition strategy for catalytic application in the degradation of organic dye pollutants and catalyst separation from wastewater efficiently.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
Open AccessArticle
High-Throughput Micro-Combinatorial TEM Phase Mapping of the DC Magnetron Sputtered YxTi1−xOy Thin Layer System
by
Dániel Olasz, Viktória Kis, Ildikó Cora, Miklós Németh and György Sáfrán
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110925 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
High-throughput methods are extremely important in today’s materials science, especially in the case of thin film characterization. The micro-combinatorial method enables the deposition and characterization of entire multicomponent thin film systems within a single sample. In this paper, we report the application of
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High-throughput methods are extremely important in today’s materials science, especially in the case of thin film characterization. The micro-combinatorial method enables the deposition and characterization of entire multicomponent thin film systems within a single sample. In this paper, we report the application of this method for the comprehensive TEM characterization of the Y-Ti-O layer system. Variable composition samples (YxTi1−xOy) were prepared by dual DC magnetron sputtering, covering the entire (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) concentration range. The structure and morphology of phases formed in both as-deposited and annealed samples at 600, 700, and 800 °C were revealed as a function of Y-Ti composition (x). A comprehensive map showing the appropriate amorphous and crystalline phases, and their occurrence regions of the whole Y-Ti-O layer system, was revealed. Thanks to the applied method, it was shown with ease that at the given experimental conditions, the Y2Ti2O7 phase with a pyrochlore structure forms already at 700 °C without the TiO2 and Y2O3 by-phases, which is remarkably lower than the required temperature for most physical preparation methods, demonstrating the importance and benefits of creating phase maps in materials science and technology.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends and Prospects in Nanoscale Thin Films and Coatings)
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