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
A Facile Strategy for the Preparation of N-Doped TiO2 with Oxygen Vacancy via the Annealing Treatment with Urea
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 818; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100818 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Although titanium dioxide (TiO2) has a wide range of potential applications, the photocatalytic performance of TiO2 is limited by both its limited photoresponse range and fast recombination of the photogenerated charge carriers. In this work, the preparation of nitrogen (N)-doped
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Although titanium dioxide (TiO2) has a wide range of potential applications, the photocatalytic performance of TiO2 is limited by both its limited photoresponse range and fast recombination of the photogenerated charge carriers. In this work, the preparation of nitrogen (N)-doped TiO2 accompanied by the introduction of oxygen vacancy (Vo) has been achieved via a facile annealing treatment with urea as the N source. During the annealing treatment, the presence of urea not only realizes the N-doping of TiO2 but also creates Vo in N-doped TiO2 (N-TiO2), which is also suitable for commercial TiO2 (P25). Unexpectedly, the annealing treatment-induced decrease in the specific surface area of N-TiO2 is inhibited by the N-doping and, thus, more active sites are maintained. Therefore, both the N-doping and formation of Vo as well as the increased active sites contribute to the excellent photocatalytic performance of N-TiO2 under visible light irradiation. Our work offers a facile strategy for the preparation of N-TiO2 with Vo via the annealing treatment with urea.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Photocatalysts Based on Nanocomposites)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Transient Thermoacoustic Characteristics and Performance in Carbon Nanotube Sponge Underwater Transducers
by
Qianshou Qi, Zhe Li, Huilin Yin, Yanxia Feng, Zhenhuan Zhou and Dalun Rong
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100817 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Recent advancements in marine technology have highlighted the urgent need for enhanced underwater acoustic applications, from sonar detection to communication and noise cancellation, driving the pursuit of innovative transducer technologies. In this paper, a new underwater thermoacoustic (TA) transducer made from carbon nanotube
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Recent advancements in marine technology have highlighted the urgent need for enhanced underwater acoustic applications, from sonar detection to communication and noise cancellation, driving the pursuit of innovative transducer technologies. In this paper, a new underwater thermoacoustic (TA) transducer made from carbon nanotube (CNT) sponge is designed to achieve wide bandwidth, high energy conversion efficiency, simple structure, good transient response, and stable sound response, utilizing the TA effect through electro-thermal modulation. The transducer has potential application in underwater acoustic communication. An electro-thermal-acoustic coupled simulation for the open model, sandwich model, and encapsulated model is presented to analyze the transient behaviors of CNT sponge TA transducers in liquid environments. The effects of key design parameters on the acoustic performances of both systems are revealed. The results demonstrate that a short pulse excitation with a low duty cycle could greatly improve the heat dissipation of the encapsulated transducer, especially when the thermoacoustic response time becomes comparable to thermal relaxation time.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)
Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Ability of Nanomaterials to Adsorb NO and SO2 from Combustion Gases and the Effectiveness of Their Separation
by
Marius Constantinescu, Felicia Bucura, Antoaneta Roman, Oana Romina Botoran, Roxana-Elena Ionete, Stefan Ionut Spiridon, Eusebiu Ilarian Ionete, Anca Maria Zaharioiu, Florian Marin, Silviu-Laurentiu Badea and Violeta-Carolina Niculescu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100816 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Climate neutrality for the year 2050 is the goal assumed at the level of the EU27+UK. As Romania is no exception, it has assumed the gradual mitigation of pollution generated by the energy sector, and by 2030, according to ‘Fit for
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Climate neutrality for the year 2050 is the goal assumed at the level of the EU27+UK. As Romania is no exception, it has assumed the gradual mitigation of pollution generated by the energy sector, and by 2030, according to ‘Fit for 55’, the share of energy from renewable sources must reach 42.5% from total energy consumption. For the rest of the energy produced from traditional sources, natural gas and/or coal, modern technologies will be used to retain the gaseous noxes. Even if they are not greenhouse gases, NO and SO2, generated from fossil fuel combustion, cause negative effects on the environment and biodiversity. The adsorption capacity of different materials, three nanomaterials developed in-house and three commercial adsorbents, both for NO and SO2, was tackled through gas chromatography, elemental analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Fe-BTC has proven to be an excellent material for separation efficiency and adsorption capacity under studied conditions, and is shown to be versatile both in the case of NO (80.00 cm3/g) and SO2 (63.07 cm3/g). All the developed nanomaterials generated superior results in comparison to the commercial adsorbents. The increase in pressure enhanced the performance of the absorption process, while temperature showed an opposite influence, by blocking the active centers on the surface.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Synergistic Mechanisms of Nanopulsed Plasma Bubbles and Photocatalysts for Trimethoprim Degradation and Mineralization in Water
by
Dimitris Tsokanas and Christos A. Aggelopoulos
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 815; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100815 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, the synergetic action of nanopulsed plasma bubbles (PBs) and photocatalysts for the degradation/mineralization of trimethoprim (TMP) in water was investigated. The effects of ZnO or TiO2 loading, plasma gas, and initial TMP concentration were evaluated. The physicochemical characterization of
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In this study, the synergetic action of nanopulsed plasma bubbles (PBs) and photocatalysts for the degradation/mineralization of trimethoprim (TMP) in water was investigated. The effects of ZnO or TiO2 loading, plasma gas, and initial TMP concentration were evaluated. The physicochemical characterization of plasma-treated water, the quantification of plasma species, and the use of appropriate plasma species scavengers shed light on the plasma-catalytic mechanism. ZnO proved to be a superior catalyst compared to TiO2 when combined with plasma bubbles, mainly due to the increased production of ⋅OH and oxygen species resulting from the decomposition of O3. The air–PBs + ZnO system resulted in higher TMP degradation (i.e., 95% after 5 min of treatment) compared to the air–PBs + TiO2 system (i.e., 87%) and the PBs-alone process (83%). The plasma gas strongly influenced the process, with O2 resulting in the best performance and Ar being insufficient to drive the process. The synergy between air–PBs and ZnO was more profound (SF = 1.7), while ZnO also promoted the already high O2–plasma bubbles’ performance, resulting in a high TOC removal rate (i.e., 71%). The electrical energy per order in the PBs + ZnO system was very low, ranging from 0.23 to 0.46 kWh/m3, depending on the plasma gas and initial TMP concentration. The study provides valuable insights into the rapid and cost-effective degradation of emerging contaminants like TMP and the plasma-catalytic mechanism of antibiotics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Water Remediation (2nd Edition))
Open AccessArticle
Study on Microstructure and Tribological Mechanism of Mo Incorporated (AlCrTiZr)N High-Entropy Ceramics Coatings Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering
by
Jia Zheng, Yiman Zhao, Jingchuan Li, Sam Zhang, Jian Zhang and Deen Sun
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100814 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
(AlCrTiZrMox)N coatings with varying Mo content were successfully prepared using a multi-target co-deposition magnetron sputtering system. The results reveal that the Mo content significantly affects the microstructure, hardness, fracture toughness, and tribological behavior of the coatings. As the Mo content in
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(AlCrTiZrMox)N coatings with varying Mo content were successfully prepared using a multi-target co-deposition magnetron sputtering system. The results reveal that the Mo content significantly affects the microstructure, hardness, fracture toughness, and tribological behavior of the coatings. As the Mo content in the coatings increases gradually, the preferred orientation changes from (200) to (111). The coatings consistently exhibit a distinct columnar structure. Additionally, the hardness of the coatings increases from 24.39 to 30.24 GPa, along with an increase in fracture toughness. The friction coefficient is reduced from 0.72 to 0.26, and the wear rate is reduced by 10 times. During the friction process, the inter-column regions of the coatings are initially damaged, causing the wear track to exhibit a wavy pattern. Greater frictional heat is generated at the crest of the wave, resulting in the formation of a MoO2 lubricating layer. The friction reaction helps to reduce the shear force during friction, demonstrating the lower friction coefficient of the (AlCrTiZrMox)N coatings. Both the hardness and fracture toughness work together to reduce the wear rate, and the (AlCrTiZrMox)N coatings show excellent wear resistance. Most notably, although the columnar structure plays a negative role in the hardness, it contributes greatly to the wear resistance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thin-Film Processing and Deposition Techniques)
Open AccessArticle
Facile Synthesis of B/P Co-Doping Multicolor Emissive Carbon Dots Derived from Phenylenediamine Isomers and Their Application in Anticounterfeiting
by
Zhiwei Li
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100813 (registering DOI) - 07 May 2024
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) possess a considerable number of beneficial features for latent applications in biotargeted drugs, electronic transistors, and encrypted information. The synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots has become a trend in contemporary research, especially in the field of controllable multicolor fluorescent carbon
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Carbon dots (CDs) possess a considerable number of beneficial features for latent applications in biotargeted drugs, electronic transistors, and encrypted information. The synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots has become a trend in contemporary research, especially in the field of controllable multicolor fluorescent carbon dots. In this study, an elementary one-step hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize the multicolor fluorescent carbon dots by co-doping unique phenylenediamine isomers (o-PD, m-PD, and p-PD) with B and P elements, which under 365 nm UV light exhibited signs of lavender-color, grass-color, and tangerine-color fluorescence, respectively. Further investigations reveal the distinctness in the polymerization, surface-specific functional groups, and graphite N content of the multicolor CDs, which may be the chief factor regarding the different optical behaviors of the multicolor CDs. This new work offers a route for the exploration of multicolor CDs using B/P co-doping and suggests great potential in the field of optical materials, important information encryption, and commercial anticounterfeiting labels.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Microwave-Solvothermal Synthesis of Mesoporous CeO2/CNCs Nanocomposite for Enhanced Room Temperature NO2 Detection
by
Yanming Sun, Xiaoying Lu, Yanchen Huang and Guoping Wang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100812 - 07 May 2024
Abstract
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Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gas sensors are pivotal in upholding environmental integrity and human health, necessitating heightened sensitivity and exceptional selectivity. Despite the prevalent use of metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) for NO2 detection, extant solutions exhibit shortcomings in meeting practical application
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Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gas sensors are pivotal in upholding environmental integrity and human health, necessitating heightened sensitivity and exceptional selectivity. Despite the prevalent use of metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) for NO2 detection, extant solutions exhibit shortcomings in meeting practical application criteria, specifically in response, selectivity, and operational temperatures. Here, we successfully employed a facile microwave-solvothermal method to synthesize a mesoporous CeO2/CNCs nanocomposite. This methodology entails the rapid and comprehensive dispersion of CeO2 nanoparticles onto helical carbon nanocoils (CNCs), resulting in augmented electronic conductivity and an abundance of active sites within the composite. Consequently, the gas-sensing sensitivity of the nanocomposite at room temperature experienced a notable enhancement. Moreover, the presence of cerium oxide and the conversion of Ce3+ and Ce4+ ions facilitated the generation of oxygen vacancies in the composites, thereby further amplifying the sensing performance. Experimental outcomes demonstrate that the nanocomposite exhibited an approximate 9-fold increase in response to 50 ppm NO2 in comparison to pure CNCs at room temperature. Additionally, the CeO2/CNCs sensor displayed remarkable selectivity towards NO2 when exposed to gases such as NH3, CO, SO2, CO2, and C2H5OH. This straightforward microwave-solvothermal method presents an appealing strategy for the research and development of intelligent sensors based on CNCs nanomaterials.
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Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Asymmetric Tilt-Induced Quantum Beating of Conductance Oscillation in Magnetically Modulated Dirac Matter Systems
by
Nawapan Sukprasert, Patchara Rakrong, Chaiyawan Saipaopan, Wachiraporn Choopan and Watchara Liewrian
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090811 - 06 May 2024
Abstract
Herein, we investigate the effect of tilt mismatch on the quantum oscillations of spin transport properties in two-dimensional asymmetrically tilted Dirac cone systems. This study involves the examination of conductance oscillation in two distinct junction types: transverse- and longitudinal-tilted Dirac cones (TTDCs and
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Herein, we investigate the effect of tilt mismatch on the quantum oscillations of spin transport properties in two-dimensional asymmetrically tilted Dirac cone systems. This study involves the examination of conductance oscillation in two distinct junction types: transverse- and longitudinal-tilted Dirac cones (TTDCs and LTDCs). Our findings reveal an unusual quantum oscillation of spin-polarized conductance within the TTDC system, characterized by two distinct anomaly patterns within a single period, labeled as the linear conductance phase and the oscillatory conductance phase. Interestingly, these phases emerge in association with tilt-induced orbital pseudo-magnetization and exchange interaction. Our study also demonstrates that the structure of the LTDC can modify the frequency of spin conductance oscillation, and the asymmetric effect within this structure results in a quantum beating pattern in oscillatory spin conductance. We note that an enhancement in the asymmetric longitudinal tilt velocity ratio within the structure correspondingly amplifies the beating frequency. Our research potentially contributes valuable insights for detecting the asymmetry of tilted Dirac fermions in type-I Dirac semimetal-based spintronics and quantum devices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Two-Dimensional Semiconductors and Magnetic Materials for Next-Generation Spintronics)
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Open AccessArticle
A Phosphorylated Dendrimer-Supported Biomass-Derived Magnetic Nanoparticle Adsorbent for Efficient Uranium Removal
by
Mingyang Ma, Qunyin Luo, Ruidong Han, Hongyi Wang, Junjie Yang and Chunyuan Liu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090810 - 06 May 2024
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A novel biomass-based magnetic nanoparticle (Fe3O4-P-CMC/PAMAM) was synthesized by crosslinking carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM), followed by phosphorylation with the incorporation of magnetic ferric oxide nanoparticles. The characterization results verified the successful functionalization and structural integrity of the
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A novel biomass-based magnetic nanoparticle (Fe3O4-P-CMC/PAMAM) was synthesized by crosslinking carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM), followed by phosphorylation with the incorporation of magnetic ferric oxide nanoparticles. The characterization results verified the successful functionalization and structural integrity of the adsorbents with a surface area of ca. 43 m2/g. Batch adsorption experiments revealed that the adsorbent exhibited a maximum adsorption capacity of 1513.47 mg·g−1 for U(VI) at pH 5.5 and 298.15 K, with Fe3O4-P-CMC/G1.5-2 showing the highest affinity among the series. The adsorption kinetics adhered to a pseudo-second-order model (R2 = 0.99, qe,exp = 463.81 mg·g−1, k2 = 2.15×10−2 g·mg−1·min−1), indicating a chemically driven process. Thermodynamic analysis suggested that the adsorption was endothermic and spontaneous (ΔH° = 14.71 kJ·mol−1, ΔG° = −50.63 kJ·mol−1, 298. 15 K), with increasing adsorption capacity at higher temperatures. The adsorbent demonstrated significant selectivity for U(VI) in the presence of competing cations, with Fe3O4-P-CMC/G1.5-2 showing a high selectivity coefficient. The performed desorption and reusability tests indicated that the adsorbent could be effectively regenerated using 1M HCl, maintaining its adsorption capacity after five cycles. XPS analysis highlighted the role of phosphonate and amino groups in the complexation with uranyl ions, and validated the existence of bimodal U4f peaks at 380.1 eV and 390.1 eV belonging to U 4f7/2 and U 4f5/2. The results of this study underscore the promise of the developed adsorbent as an effective and selective material for the treatment of uranium-contaminated wastewater.
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Open AccessArticle
Interfacing Langmuir–Blodgett and Pickering Emulsions for the Synthesis of 2D Nanostructured Films: Applications in Copper Ion Adsorption
by
Andrei Honciuc, Oana-Iuliana Negru and Mirela Honciuc
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 809; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090809 - 06 May 2024
Abstract
This research focuses on developing a 2D thin film comprising a monolayer of silica nanoparticles functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI), achieved through a novel integration of Langmuir–Blodgett (L-B) and Pickering emulsion techniques. The primary aim was to create a nanostructured film that exhibits dual
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This research focuses on developing a 2D thin film comprising a monolayer of silica nanoparticles functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI), achieved through a novel integration of Langmuir–Blodgett (L-B) and Pickering emulsion techniques. The primary aim was to create a nanostructured film that exhibits dual functionality: iridescence and efficient metal ion adsorption, specifically Cu(II) ions. The methodology combined L-B and Pickering emulsion polymerization to assemble and stabilize a nanoparticle monolayer at an oil/water interface, which was then polymerized under UV radiation to form an asymmetrically structured film. The results demonstrate that the film possesses a high adsorption efficiency for Cu(II) ions, with the enhanced mechanical durability provided by a reinforcing layer of polyvinyl alcohol/glycerol. The advantage of combining L-B and Pickering emulsion technology is the ability to generate 2D films from functional nanoparticle monolayers that are sufficiently sturdy to be deployed in applications. The 2D film’s practical applications in environmental remediation were confirmed through its ability to adsorb and recover Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions effectively. We thus demonstrate the film’s potential as a versatile tool in water treatment applications owing to its combined photonic and adsorptive properties. This work paves the way for future research on the use of nanoengineered films in environmental and possibly photonic applications focusing on enhancing the film’s structural robustness and exploring its broader applicability to other pollutants and metal ions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphological Design and Synthesis of Nanoparticles (Second Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
Porous Ruthenium–Tungsten–Zinc Nanocages for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction in Alkali
by
Xiandi Sun, Zhiyuan Cheng, Hang Liu, Siyu Chen and Ya-Rong Zheng
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 808; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090808 - 06 May 2024
Abstract
With the rapid development of anion exchange membrane technology and the availability of high-performance non-noble metal cathode catalysts in alkaline media, the commercialization of anion exchange membrane fuel cells has become feasible. Currently, anode materials for alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cells still rely
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With the rapid development of anion exchange membrane technology and the availability of high-performance non-noble metal cathode catalysts in alkaline media, the commercialization of anion exchange membrane fuel cells has become feasible. Currently, anode materials for alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cells still rely on platinum-based catalysts, posing a challenge to the development of efficient low-Pt or Pt-free catalysts. Low-cost ruthenium-based anodes are being considered as alternatives to platinum. However, they still suffer from stability issues and strong oxophilicity. Here, we employ a metal–organic framework compound as a template to construct three-dimensional porous ruthenium–tungsten–zinc nanocages via solvothermal and high-temperature pyrolysis methods. The experimental results demonstrate that this porous ruthenium–tungsten–zinc nanocage with an electrochemical surface area of 116 m2 g−1 exhibits excellent catalytic activity for hydrogen oxidation reaction in alkali, with a kinetic density 1.82 times and a mass activity 8.18 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C, and a good catalytic stability, showing no obvious degradation of the current density after continuous operation for 10,000 s. These findings suggest that the developed catalyst holds promise for use in alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cells.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanostructured Electrode Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Ingested Micro- and Nanoplastic (MNP)-Mediated Genotoxicity in an In Vitro Model of the Small Intestinal Epithelium (SIE)
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Zhenning Yang, Glen M. DeLoid, Joshua Baw, Helmut Zarbl and Philip Demokritou
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 807; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090807 - 06 May 2024
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Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become ubiquitous contaminants of water and foods, resulting in high levels of human ingestion exposure. MNPs have been found in human blood and multiple tissues, suggesting that they are readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and widely
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Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become ubiquitous contaminants of water and foods, resulting in high levels of human ingestion exposure. MNPs have been found in human blood and multiple tissues, suggesting that they are readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and widely distributed. Growing toxicological evidence suggests that ingested MNPs may pose a serious health threat. The potential genotoxicity of MNPs, however, remains largely unknown. In this study, genotoxicity of primary and environmentally relevant secondary MNPs was assessed in a triculture small intestinal epithelium (SIE) model using the CometChip assay. Aqueous suspensions of 25 and 1000 nm carboxylated polystyrene spheres (PS25C and PS1KC), and incinerated polyethylene (PEI PM0.1) were subjected to simulated GIT digestion to create physiologically relevant exposures (digestas), which were applied to the SIE model at final MNP concentrations of 1, 5, and 20 μg/mL for 24 or 48 h. PS25C and PS1KC induced DNA damage in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. To our knowledge, this is one of the first assessment of MNP genotoxicity in an integrated in vitro ingestion platform including simulated GIT digestion and a triculture SIE model. These findings suggest that ingestion of high concentrations of carboxylated PS MNPs could have serious genotoxic consequences in the SIE.
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Open AccessArticle
Boron and Nitrogen Co-Doped Porous Graphene Nanostructures for the Electrochemical Detection of Poisonous Heavy Metal Ions
by
Yogesh Chaudhary, Shradha Suman, Benadict Rakesh, Gunendra Prasad Ojha, Uday Deshpande, Bishweshwar Pant and Kamatchi Jothiramalingam Sankaran
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090806 - 06 May 2024
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Heavy metal poisoning has a life-threatening impact on the human body to aquatic ecosystems. This necessitates designing a convenient green methodology for the fabrication of an electrochemical sensor that can detect heavy metal ions efficiently. In this study, boron (B) and nitrogen (N)
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Heavy metal poisoning has a life-threatening impact on the human body to aquatic ecosystems. This necessitates designing a convenient green methodology for the fabrication of an electrochemical sensor that can detect heavy metal ions efficiently. In this study, boron (B) and nitrogen (N) co-doped laser-induced porous graphene (LIGBN) nanostructured electrodes were fabricated using a direct laser writing technique. The fabricated electrodes were utilised for the individual and simultaneous electrochemical detection of lead (Pb2+) and cadmium (Cd2+) ions using a square wave voltammetry technique (SWV). The synergistic effect of B and N co-doping results in an improved sensing performance of the electrode with better sensitivity of 0.725 µA/µM for Pb2+ and 0.661 µA/µM for Cd2+ ions, respectively. Moreover, the sensing electrode shows a low limit of detection of 0.21 µM and 0.25 µM for Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions, with wide linear ranges from 8.0 to 80 µM for Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions and high linearity of R2 = 0.99 in case of simultaneous detection. This rapid and facile method of fabricating heteroatom-doped porous graphene opens a new avenue in electrochemical sensing studies to detect various hazardous metal ions.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
A Tape-Wrapping Strategy towards Electrochemical Fabrication of Water-Dispersible Graphene
by
Deyue Xiao, Peng He, Haolong Zheng, Shujing Yang, Siwei Yang and Guqiao Ding
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 805; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090805 - 06 May 2024
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Graphene has achieved mass production via various preparative routes and demonstrated its uniqueness in many application fields for its intrinsically high electron mobility and thermal conductivity. However, graphene faces limitations in assembling macroscopic structures because of its hydrophobic property. Therefore, balancing high crystal
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Graphene has achieved mass production via various preparative routes and demonstrated its uniqueness in many application fields for its intrinsically high electron mobility and thermal conductivity. However, graphene faces limitations in assembling macroscopic structures because of its hydrophobic property. Therefore, balancing high crystal quality and good aqueous dispersibility is of great importance in practical applications. Herein, we propose a tape-wrapping strategy to electrochemically fabricate water-dispersible graphene (w-Gr) with both excellent dispersibility (~4.5 mg/mL, stable over 2 months), and well-preserved crystalline structure. A large production rate (4.5 mg/min, six times faster than previous electrochemical methods), high yield (65.4% ≤5 atomic layers) and good processability are demonstrated. A mechanism investigation indicates that the rational design of anode configuration to ensure proper oxidation, deep exfoliation and unobstructed mass transfer is responsible for the high efficiency of this strategy. This simple yet efficient electrochemical method is expected to promote the scalable preparation and applications of graphene.
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Open AccessArticle
Na3MnTi(PO4)3/C Nanofiber Free-Standing Electrode for Long-Cycling-Life Sodium-Ion Batteries
by
Debora Maria Conti, Claudia Urru, Giovanna Bruni, Pietro Galinetto, Benedetta Albini, Vittorio Berbenni, Alessandro Girella and Doretta Capsoni
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090804 - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Self-standing Na3MnTi(PO4)3/carbon nanofiber (CNF) electrodes are successfully synthesized by electrospinning. A pre-synthesized Na3MnTi(PO4)3 is dispersed in a polymeric solution, and the electrospun product is heat-treated at 750 °C in nitrogen flow to
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Self-standing Na3MnTi(PO4)3/carbon nanofiber (CNF) electrodes are successfully synthesized by electrospinning. A pre-synthesized Na3MnTi(PO4)3 is dispersed in a polymeric solution, and the electrospun product is heat-treated at 750 °C in nitrogen flow to obtain active material/CNF electrodes. The active material loading is 10 wt%. SEM, TEM, and EDS analyses demonstrate that the Na3MnTi(PO4)3 particles are homogeneously spread into and within CNFs. The loaded Na3MnTi(PO4)3 displays the NASICON structure; compared to the pre-synthesized material, the higher sintering temperature (750 °C) used to obtain conductive CNFs leads to cell shrinkage along the a axis. The electrochemical performances are appealing compared to a tape-casted electrode appositely prepared. The self-standing electrode displays an initial discharge capacity of 124.38 mAh/g at 0.05C, completely recovered after cycling at an increasing C-rate and a coulombic efficiency ≥98%. The capacity value at 20C is 77.60 mAh/g, and the self-standing electrode exhibits good cycling performance and a capacity retention of 59.6% after 1000 cycles at 1C. Specific capacities of 33.6, 22.6, and 17.3 mAh/g are obtained by further cycling at 5C, 10C, and 20C, and the initial capacity is completely recovered after 1350 cycles. The promising capacity values and cycling performance are due to the easy electrolyte diffusion and contact with the active material, offered by the porous nature of non-woven nanofibers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanostructured Electrode Materials: Design and Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Optimize Electron Beam Energy toward In Situ Imaging of Thick Frozen Bio-Samples with Nanometer Resolution Using MeV-STEM
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Xi Yang, Liguo Wang, Victor Smaluk and Timur Shaftan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090803 - 05 May 2024
Abstract
To optimize electron energy for in situ imaging of large biological samples up to 10 μm in thickness with nanoscale resolutions, we implemented an analytical model based on elastic and inelastic characteristic angles. This model has been benchmarked by Monte Carlo simulations and
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To optimize electron energy for in situ imaging of large biological samples up to 10 μm in thickness with nanoscale resolutions, we implemented an analytical model based on elastic and inelastic characteristic angles. This model has been benchmarked by Monte Carlo simulations and can be used to predict the transverse beam size broadening as a function of electron energy while the probe beam traverses through the sample. As a result, the optimal choice of the electron beam energy can be realized. In addition, the impact of the dose-limited resolution was analysed. While the sample thickness is less than 10 μm, there exists an optimal electron beam energy below 10 MeV regarding a specific sample thickness. However, for samples thicker than 10 μm, the optimal beam energy is 10 MeV or higher depending on the sample thickness, and the ultimate resolution could become worse with the increase in the sample thickness. Moreover, a MeV-STEM column based on a two-stage lens system can be applied to reduce the beam size from one micron at aperture to one nanometre at the sample with the energy tuning range from 3 to 10 MeV. In conjunction with the state-of-the-art ultralow emittance electron source that we recently implemented, the maximum size of an electron beam when it traverses through an up to 10 μm thick bio-sample can be kept less than . This is a critical step toward the in situ imaging of large, thick biological samples with nanometer resolution.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Interaction of Electron Phenomena on the Mesoscopic Scale)
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Open AccessArticle
Disinfectant-Assisted Preparation of Hierarchical ZSM-5 Zeolite with Excellent Catalytic Stabilities in Propane Aromatization
by
Peng Zhang, Jianguo Zhuang, Jisheng Yu, Yingjie Guan, Xuedong Zhu and Fan Yang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090802 - 05 May 2024
Abstract
A series of quaternary ammonium or phosphonium salts were applied as zeolite growth modifiers in the synthesis of hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite. The results showed that the use of methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (MTBBP) could yield nano-sized hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite with a “rice crust” morphology feature,
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A series of quaternary ammonium or phosphonium salts were applied as zeolite growth modifiers in the synthesis of hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite. The results showed that the use of methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (MTBBP) could yield nano-sized hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite with a “rice crust” morphology feature, which demonstrates a better catalytic performance than other disinfect candidates. It was confirmed that the addition of MTBBP did not cause discernable adverse effects on the microstructures or acidities of ZSM-5, but it led to the creation of abundant meso- to marco- pores as a result of aligned tiny particle aggregations. Moreover, the generation of the special morphology was believed to be a result of the coordination and competition between MTBBP and Na+ cations. The as-synthesized hierarchical zeolite was loaded with Zn and utilized in the propane aromatization reaction, which displayed a prolonged lifetime (1430 min vs. 290 min compared with conventional ZSM-5) and an enhanced total turnover number that is four folds of the traditional one, owing to the attenuated hydride transfer reaction and slow coking rate. This work provides a new method to alter the morphological properties of zeolites with low-cost disinfectants, which is of great potential for industrial applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Carbon Neutrality)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on Anomalous Hall Effect and Spin–Orbit Torque Effect of TbCo-Based Multilayer Films
by
Menglu Yang, Yuanjing Qu, Tao He, Xiong He, Yunli Xu, Lizhi Yi, Liqing Pan and Guangduo Lu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090801 - 05 May 2024
Abstract
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The anomalous Hall effect and spin–orbit torque of TbCo-based multilayer films have been methodically studied in recent years. Many properties of the films can be obtained by the anomalous Hall resistance loops of the samples. We report on the effects of a structure
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The anomalous Hall effect and spin–orbit torque of TbCo-based multilayer films have been methodically studied in recent years. Many properties of the films can be obtained by the anomalous Hall resistance loops of the samples. We report on the effects of a structure composed of two heavy metals as the buffer layers on the anomalous Hall resistance loops of TbCo-based multilayers at different temperatures. The results showed that the coercivity increases dramatically with decreasing temperature, and the samples without perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at room temperature showed perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at low temperatures. We quantified the spin–orbit torque efficiency and Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction effective field size of the films W/Pt/TbCo/Pt at room temperature by measuring the loop shift of anomalous Hall resistance. The results showed that the study of anomalous Hall resistance loops plays an important role in the study of spintronics, which can not only show the basic properties of the sample, but can also obtain other information about the sample through the shift of the loops.
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Open AccessArticle
Physiochemical and Electrochemical Properties of a Heat-Treated Electrode for All-Iron Redox Flow Batteries
by
Nitika Devi, Jay N. Mishra, Prabhakar Singh and Yong-Song Chen
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090800 - 05 May 2024
Abstract
Iron redox flow batteries (IRFBs) are cost-efficient RFBs that have the potential to develop low-cost grid energy storage. Electrode kinetics are pivotal in defining the cycle life and energy efficiency of the battery. In this study, graphite felt (GF) is heat-treated at 400,
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Iron redox flow batteries (IRFBs) are cost-efficient RFBs that have the potential to develop low-cost grid energy storage. Electrode kinetics are pivotal in defining the cycle life and energy efficiency of the battery. In this study, graphite felt (GF) is heat-treated at 400, 500 and 600 °C, and its physicochemical and electrochemical properties are studied using XPS, FESEM, Raman and cyclic voltammetry. Surface morphology and structural changes suggest that GF heat-treated at 500 °C for 6 h exhibits acceptable thermal stability while accessing the benefits of heat treatment. Specific capacitance was calculated for assessing the wettability and electrochemical properties of pristine and treated electrodes. The 600 °C GF has the highest specific capacitance of 34.8 Fg−1 at 100 mV s−1, but the 500 °C GF showed the best battery performance. The good battery performance of the 500 °C GF is attributed to the presence of oxygen functionalities and the absence of thermal degradation during heat treatment. The battery consisting of 500 °C GF electrodes offered the highest voltage efficiency of ~74%, Coulombic efficiency of ~94%, and energy efficiency of ~70% at 20 mA cm−2. Energy efficiency increased by 7% in a battery consisting of heat-treated GF in comparison to pristine GF. The battery is capable of operating for 100 charge–discharge cycles with an average energy efficiency of ~ 67% for over 100 cycles.
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(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Terahertz Biosensor Engineering Based on Quasi-BIC Metasurface with Ultrasensitive Detection
by
Jun Peng, Xian Lin, Xiaona Yan, Xin Yan, Xiaofei Hu, Haiyun Yao, Lanju Liang and Guohong Ma
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(9), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14090799 - 04 May 2024
Abstract
Terahertz (THz) sensors have attracted great attention in the biological field due to their nondestructive and contact-free biochemical samples. Recently, the concept of a quasi-bound state in the continuum (QBIC) has gained significant attention in designing biosensors with ultrahigh sensitivity. QBIC-based metasurfaces (MSs)
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Terahertz (THz) sensors have attracted great attention in the biological field due to their nondestructive and contact-free biochemical samples. Recently, the concept of a quasi-bound state in the continuum (QBIC) has gained significant attention in designing biosensors with ultrahigh sensitivity. QBIC-based metasurfaces (MSs) achieve excellent performance in various applications, including sensing, optical switching, and laser, providing a reliable platform for biomaterial sensors with terahertz radiation. In this study, a structure-engineered THz MS consisting of a “double C” array has been designed, in which an asymmetry parameter α is introduced into the structure by changing the length of one subunit; the Q-factor of the QBIC device can be optimized by engineering the asymmetry parameter α. Theoretical calculation with coupling equations can well reproduce the THz transmission spectra of the designed THz QBIC MS obtained from the numerical simulation. Experimentally, we adopt an MS with α = 0.44 for testing arginine molecules. The experimental results show that different concentrations of arginine molecules lead to significant transmission changes near QBIC resonant frequencies, and the amplitude change is shown to be 16 times higher than that of the classical dipole resonance. The direct limit of detection for arginine molecules on the QBIC MS reaches 0.36 ng/mL. This work provides a new way to realize rapid, accurate, and nondestructive sensing of trace molecules and has potential application in biomaterial detection.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plasmonics, Metamaterials, Nanophotonics and Their Applications of Light Modulation and Detection)
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