Nanomaterials

1 pages, 438 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Huang et al. Electrosprayed Ultra-Thin Coating of Ethyl Cellulose on Drug Nanoparticles for Improved Sustained Release. Nanomaterials 2020, 10, 1758

by Wei-Dong Huang, Xizi Xu, Han-Lin Wang, Jie-Xun Huang, Xiao-Hua Zuo, Xiao-Ju Lu, Xian-Li Liu and Deng-Guang Yu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1825; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231825 - 2 Dec 2025

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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42 pages, 1598 KB

Open AccessReview

Nanoscale Characterization of Nanomaterial-Based Systems: Mechanisms, Experimental Methods, and Challenges in Probing Corrosion, Mechanical, and Tribological Properties

by Md Ashraful Hoque and Chun-Wei Yao

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1824; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231824 - 2 Dec 2025

Abstract

Nanomaterial-based systems (NBS) have emerged as transformative elements in advanced surface engineering, offering superior corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and tribological resilience governed by unique phenomena inherent to the nanoscale. However, bridging the knowledge gap between these enhanced physicochemical properties and the metrological tools [...] Read more.

Nanomaterial-based systems (NBS) have emerged as transformative elements in advanced surface engineering, offering superior corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and tribological resilience governed by unique phenomena inherent to the nanoscale. However, bridging the knowledge gap between these enhanced physicochemical properties and the metrological tools required to quantify them remains a critical challenge. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the fundamental mechanisms, state-of-the-art experimental techniques, and computational strategies employed to probe NBS behavior. The article first elucidates the core mechanisms driving performance, including passive barrier formation, stimuli-responsive active corrosion inhibition, grain boundary strengthening, and the formation of protective tribo-films by 2D nanomaterial-based systems. Subsequently, the article evaluates the transition from conventional macroscopic testing to high-resolution in situ characterization, highlighting the capabilities of High-Speed Atomic Force Microscopy (HS-AFM), Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy (LC-TEM), and nanoindentation in visualizing dynamic defect evolution and measuring localized mechanical responses. Furthermore, the indispensable role of computational materials science—specifically Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Machine Learning (ML)—in predictive modeling and elucidating atomic-scale interactions is discussed. Finally, persistent challenges regarding substrate interference, sample heterogeneity, and instrumentation limits are addressed, concluding with a perspective on future research directions focused on standardization, operando testing, and the development of AI-driven “Digital Twins” for accelerated testing and material optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)

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3 pages, 148 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advanced 2D Materials for Emerging Applications

by Maiyong Zhu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1823; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231823 - 2 Dec 2025

Abstract

Since the discovery of graphene in 2004, two-dimensional (2D) materials have received increasing attention owing to their unique electronic, optical, mechanical, and chemical properties [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced 2D Materials for Emerging Applications)

17 pages, 4844 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coal Gasification Slag-Derived Ceramsite for High-Efficiency Phosphorus Removal from Wastewater

by Yu Li, Ruifeng Wang, Kexuan Shen, Yi Ye, Hui Liu, Zhanfeng Yang and Shengli An

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1822; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231822 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Coal gasification slag (CGS), an industrial solid waste produced during high-temperature (1200–1600 °C) coal gasification, was utilized as the primary raw material, combined with minor additions of coal gangue and calcium oxide, to synthesize ceramsite filter via high-temperature sintering (900–1160 °C) for phosphorus-containing [...] Read more.

Coal gasification slag (CGS), an industrial solid waste produced during high-temperature (1200–1600 °C) coal gasification, was utilized as the primary raw material, combined with minor additions of coal gangue and calcium oxide, to synthesize ceramsite filter via high-temperature sintering (900–1160 °C) for phosphorus-containing wastewater treatment. The resulting ceramsite was evaluated for compressive strength, apparent porosity, water absorption, mineral phase composition, hydrolysis properties, and phosphorus removal performance. Experimental results revealed that increasing sintering temperature and calcium oxide content shifted the dominant crystalline phases from anorthite and hematite to gehlenite, anorthite, wollastonite, and esseneite, promoting the formation of porous structures. This transition increased apparent porosity while reducing compressive strength. Under optimal conditions (1130 °C, 20 wt.% CaO, 1 h sintering), the ceramsite (CM-20-1130) exhibited an apparent porosity of 43.12%, compressive strength of 3.88 MPa, apparent density of 1.084 g/cm³, and water absorption of 33.20%. The high porosity and abundant gehlenite and wollastonite phases endowed CM-20-1130 with enhanced hydrolysis capacity. Static phosphorus removal experiments demonstrated a maximum phosphorus removal capacity of 2.77 mg/g, driven by the release of calcium and hydroxide ions from gehlenite and wollastonite, which form calcium-phosphate precipitates on the ceramsite surface, enabling efficient phosphorus removal from simulated wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Environment Energy Harvesting, Conversion and Application)

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27 pages, 19129 KB

Open AccessArticle

Green Synthesis of AgNPs from Celtis africana: Biological and Catalytic Insights

by Amna N. Khan

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1821; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231821 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Celtis africana, a rare plant native to southwestern Saudi Arabia, was explored for the first time as a source for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Catechol-bearing phenolic amides in the aqueous leaf extract acted as both reducing and capping agents, enabling [...] Read more.

Celtis africana, a rare plant native to southwestern Saudi Arabia, was explored for the first time as a source for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Catechol-bearing phenolic amides in the aqueous leaf extract acted as both reducing and capping agents, enabling eco-friendly AgNP fabrication. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using SEM, TEM, XRD, UV-Vis, and FTIR, revealing predominantly spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 9.28 ± 0.11 nm, a face-centered cubic crystalline structure, and a pronounced surface plasmon resonance at 424 nm. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of caffeoyltryamine in the extract, while UV-Vis and FTIR indicated its attachment to the AgNP surface. The AgNPs exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, MRSA and E. faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. typhimurium, and P. aeruginosa), as well as pathogenic fungi such as C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei with performance comparable to or exceeding that of AgNPs from Artemisia vulgaris, Moringa oleifera, and Nigella sativa. The MIC and MBC values for S. aureus, MRSA, E. coli, and S. typhimurium were consistently 6.25 µg/mL and 25 µg/mL, respectively, reflecting strong inhibitory and bactericidal effects at low concentrations. MTT assays demonstrated selective cytotoxicity, showing higher viability in normal human skin fibroblasts (HSF) than in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The AgNPs also displayed strong antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 5.41 µg/mL, DPPH assay) and efficient catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and methylene blue (MB), with rate constants of 0.0165 s⁻¹ and 0.0047 s⁻¹, respectively, exceeding most reported values. These findings identify Celtis africana as a promising source for eco-friendly AgNPs with strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and catalytic properties for broad biological and environmental applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)

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12 pages, 2941 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Molecular Sieving of Propylene and Propane on SAPO-35 Molecular Sieve

by Yansi Tong, Kadi Hu, Qihao Yang, Hao Liu, Danhua Yuan, Jungang Wang, Mengting Lv, Hailong Wang, Ziqi Tian, Yunpeng Xu and Liang Chen

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1820; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231820 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Selective adsorption is regarded as a promising alternative for propylene/propane separation. However, the similar physicochemical properties of these two components pose a challenge in developing adsorbents that simultaneously exhibit high selectivity and substantial adsorption capacity. This study aims to achieve molecular sieving of [...] Read more.

Selective adsorption is regarded as a promising alternative for propylene/propane separation. However, the similar physicochemical properties of these two components pose a challenge in developing adsorbents that simultaneously exhibit high selectivity and substantial adsorption capacity. This study aims to achieve molecular sieving of propylene and propane by precisely controlling the pore size of silicoaluminophosphate (SAPO) molecular sieve. The pore size of the eight-membered-ring SAPO-35 molecular sieve is tuned via ion exchange to fall between the kinetic diameters of propylene and propane, enabling selective adsorption of propylene while excluding propane molecules. Ion exchange treatment increased the equilibrium adsorption selectivity of the SAPO-35 from 2.2 to 11.4, placing it among the highest-performing molecular sieve-based adsorbents. This modification also substantially improved the material’s regeneration capability at ambient temperature. Theoretical calculations reveal that steric hindrance effects, arising when gas molecules diffuse through the eight-membered-ring channels, contribute significantly to the high adsorption selectivity. Breakthrough experiments demonstrated that Na-SAPO-35 achieves a dynamic selectivity of 15.9 for propylene/propane separation. The development of Na-SAPO-35 adsorbents with high selectivity, substantial adsorption capacity, and robust durability is critical for advancing the industrial implementation of adsorption-based separation technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable CO₂ Capture and Catalytic Conversion)

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24 pages, 4149 KB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress of Passively Mode-Locked Fiber Lasers Based on Saturable Absorbers

by Jiayi Xie, Tengfei Liu, Xilong Liu, Fang Wang and Weiwei Liu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1819; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231819 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Ultrashort fiber lasers are one of the current research hotspots in the field of lasers. They have the advantages of compact structure and high beam quality. Passively mode-locking using saturable absorbers (SAs) is an important scheme for generating picosecond and femtosecond pulses. A [...] Read more.

Ultrashort fiber lasers are one of the current research hotspots in the field of lasers. They have the advantages of compact structure and high beam quality. Passively mode-locking using saturable absorbers (SAs) is an important scheme for generating picosecond and femtosecond pulses. A deep understanding of the passive mode-locking mechanism is key to maturing ultrafast laser technology. In recent years, the passively mode-locking technology of SAs has been improved in material systems, device preparation, and cavity structures. SAs are primarily divided into artificial SAs and real SAs. Real SAs primarily include semiconductor saturable absorption mirrors (SEASAMs) and nanomaterials. Artificial SAs primarily include nonlinear optical loop mirrors (NOLMs), nonlinear multimode interference (NLMMI), nonlinear polarization rotation (NPR), and the Mamyshev oscillator. Herein, we mainly review passively mode-locked fiber lasers employing various SAs, as well as their working principles and technical characteristics. By focusing on the representative achievements, the developmental achievements of ultrafast lasers based on SAs are demonstrated. Finally, the prevailing challenges and promising future research directions in SA’s mode-locking technology are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Energy Pulsed Laser-Driven Synthesis and Modification of Nanomaterials)

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10 pages, 2360 KB

Open AccessArticle

Glass-Based 4-in-1 High-Voltage Micro-LED Package for High-Brightness Mini-LED Backlight Applications

by Chien-Chi Huang, Tzu-Yi Lee, Chia-Hung Tsai, Fang-Chung Chen, Li-Yin Chen and Hao-Chung Kuo

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1818; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231818 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

A novel four-in-one (4-in-series) MicroLED-in-Package (MiP4) architecture is demonstrated for the first time, integrating four sub-85 µm blue micro-LED (µ-LED) dies on a transparent glass substrate through a redistribution-layer (RDL) interconnection process. The MiP4 device operates natively at 16 V, eliminating the need [...] Read more.

A novel four-in-one (4-in-series) MicroLED-in-Package (MiP4) architecture is demonstrated for the first time, integrating four sub-85 µm blue micro-LED (µ-LED) dies on a transparent glass substrate through a redistribution-layer (RDL) interconnection process. The MiP4 device operates natively at 16 V, eliminating the need for step-down converters and simplifying high-voltage backlight driving circuits. The transparent glass carrier enables efficient light extraction, excellent thermal dissipation, and uniform emission. Electrical and optical characterization of dual- (B2), triple- (B3), and quad-chip (B4) devices shows ideal voltage scalability (8 V, 12 V, 16 V) and stable emission at 450 ± 2 nm with minimal FWHM broadening (22–29 nm). Compared with a commercial LED, the MiP4 delivers 1.8× higher optical power (~41.8 mW) despite its active area being only ~1/70 that of the reference device (20,000 µm² vs. 1,350,000 µm²), yielding a dramatically enhanced luminous flux density of 64 lm/mm² at 50 mA. Furthermore, pulse-driven measurements under 2%, 5%, and 10% duty cycles verify excellent thermal stability and minimal spectral shift (<1 nm), confirming the device’s robustness and energy efficiency. This first-of-its-kind 4-in-1 high-voltage glass-based µ-LED package provides a scalable and manufacturable route toward next-generation ultra-thin, high-brightness Mini-LED backlight and optical communication systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)

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13 pages, 2299 KB

Open AccessArticle

SWCNT-Based Composite Films with High Mechanical Strength and Stretchability by Combining Inorganic-Blended Acrylic Emulsion for Various Thermoelectric Generators

by Yuto Nakazawa, Yoshiyuki Shinozaki, Hiroto Nakayama, Shuya Ochiai, Shugo Miyake and Masayuki Takashiri

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1817; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231817 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films are potential materials for thermoelectric generators (TEGs) owing to their flexibility and high thermoelectric performance near 300 K. However, they inherently exhibit low mechanical strength and high thermal conductivity. To address these limitations, SWCNT-based composite films were fabricated [...] Read more.

Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films are potential materials for thermoelectric generators (TEGs) owing to their flexibility and high thermoelectric performance near 300 K. However, they inherently exhibit low mechanical strength and high thermal conductivity. To address these limitations, SWCNT-based composite films were fabricated by combining SWCNTs with varying amounts of an inorganic-blended acrylic emulsion additive. The resulting SWCNT-based composite films exhibited significantly improved mechanical properties, with breaking strain and tensile strength values approximately thirty and two times higher, respectively, than those of the additive-free SWCNT film. Thermal conductivity decreased from 7.3 W/(m·K) for the additive-free SWCNT film to 2.1 W/(m·K) for the SWCNT-based composite films. Two types of TEGs were fabricated using the composite films: (1) the water-floating TEG, which generated a temperature difference through evaporative cooling; and (2) the standard TEG, which generated a temperature difference when vertically mounted on a heater. The output voltage of the first type of TEGs decreased as the additive amount increased, owing to reduced evaporative cooling. However, the second type of TEGs increased the output voltage by adding the appropriate amount of additive owing to the film’s low thermal conductivity. These findings are significantly helpful in using TEGs with appropriate designs and placements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Stretchable and Wearable Devices)

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10 pages, 1717 KB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Study of Biaxial Strain Effects on Schottky Barrier Modulation in Graphene/ZnSe Heterostructures

by Guowang Pang, Xue Wen, Lili Zhang and Yineng Huang

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1816; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231816 - 1 Dec 2025

Abstract

Reducing the Schottky barrier at the metal–semiconductor interface and achieving Ohmic contact is crucial for the development of high-performance Schottky field-effect transistors. This paper investigates the stability, interface interactions, interlayer charge transfer, and types of Schottky contacts in the graphene/ZnSe heterostructure structure using [...] Read more.

Reducing the Schottky barrier at the metal–semiconductor interface and achieving Ohmic contact is crucial for the development of high-performance Schottky field-effect transistors. This paper investigates the stability, interface interactions, interlayer charge transfer, and types of Schottky contacts in the graphene/ZnSe heterostructure structure using first-principles methods. It employs biaxial strain as a control mechanism. The results indicate that applying compressive strain increases the barrier and band gap while maintaining n-type contact; whereas tensile strain reduces the n-type barrier to negative values, inducing Ohmic contact and decreasing the band gap. The findings of this study will provide theoretical references for the design and fabrication of field-effect transistors, photodetectors, and other optoelectronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and 2D Material-Based Photodetectors)

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15 pages, 1600 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design of Porous Aromatic Frameworks for Adsorptive Desulfurization: Synergistic Modulation via π-π Interactions and Mesopores

by Tiantian Li, Xiaowen Li, Hao Wu, Guangxia Shi, Yizhi Zeng, Dong Xu and Dingming Xue

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1815; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231815 - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

The elimination of thiophenic sulfides from fuel oils is essential for both environmental protection and industrial catalysis. However, conventional hydrodesulfurization encounters difficulties due to severe operating conditions and limited efficacy against aromatic heterocyclic sulfur compounds. Adsorptive desulfurization offers notable advantages under milder conditions. [...] Read more.

The elimination of thiophenic sulfides from fuel oils is essential for both environmental protection and industrial catalysis. However, conventional hydrodesulfurization encounters difficulties due to severe operating conditions and limited efficacy against aromatic heterocyclic sulfur compounds. Adsorptive desulfurization offers notable advantages under milder conditions. In this investigation, topology-guided pore engineering was utilized to fabricate porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs) with distinct pore structures through Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling. Notably, PBPAF-2, despite its lower specific surface, demonstrates significantly improved mass transfer kinetics attributed to its unique mesoporous channel (2.13 nm), resulting in notably prolonged dynamic breakthrough retention times compared to other materials in the series. Analysis using synchrotron-assisted FT-IR spectroscopy reveals a blue-shift in benzene ring characteristic peaks following adsorption of dibenzothiophene and benzothiophene, indicating that π-π interactions between electron-rich aromatic rings in PAFs and thiophenic rings are the primary driving force for adsorption. This work proposes a dual-factor synergistic design strategy of “mass transfer optimization–electron cloud matching”, offering a new strategy for the development of highly efficient adsorbents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Porous Nanomaterials and Green Environment Applications)

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15 pages, 2807 KB

Open AccessArticle

Syngas Production over Nanosized Multicomponent Co-Fe-Containing Catalysts

by Kuralay T. Tilegen, Sholpan S. Itkulova, Makpal A. Zhumash, Yerzhan A. Boleubayev and Arlan Z. Abilmagzhanov

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1814; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231814 - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Carbon dioxide reforming of methane is a promising technology to recycle and reduce greenhouse gases (CH₄, CO₂) into valuable chemicals and fuels. The Co-Fe catalysts modified with a small amount of Pt and supported on alumina were designed to [...] Read more.

Carbon dioxide reforming of methane is a promising technology to recycle and reduce greenhouse gases (CH₄, CO₂) into valuable chemicals and fuels. The Co-Fe catalysts modified with a small amount of Pt and supported on alumina were designed to be explored in dry reforming (DRM) and combined CO₂-steam reforming (bireforming, BRM) of methane to produce syngas. The catalysts were characterized by physico-chemical methods (i.e., BET, XRD, TEM, SEM, and TPR-H₂). The synthesized catalysts are the X-ray amorphous nanosized materials with particle sizes of less than 30 nm. The processes were carried out using a feed of CH₄/CO₂/H₂O = 1/1/0–0.5 at varying temperature (400–800 °C) at atmospheric pressure and GHSV = 1000 h⁻¹. The combination of Co and Fe in varying ratios with Pt allowed for high activity and selectivity to be maintained. Extents of methane and CO₂ conversion are varied within a range of 79.5–97.5 and 64.2–85.2%, respectively, at 700–800 °C, while the H₂/CO ratio in the resulting syngas ranged from 0.98 to 1.30, depending on the catalyst and feed composition. Stability tests conducted for up to 80 h on stream showed no loss of activity of the 10%Co-Fe-Pt/Al₂O₃ catalysts in BRM. We believe that high activity of the synthesized catalysts occurs due to synergy in the Co-Fe-Pt system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Recent Advances in Colloids, Interfaces, and Interfacial Activities)

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23 pages, 4807 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reactive Magnetron-Sputtered Tantalum–Copper Nitride Coatings: Structure, Electrical Anisotropy, and Antibacterial Behavior

by Paweł Żukowski, Vitalii Bondariev, Anatoliy I. Kupchishin, Marat N. Niyazov, Kairat B. Tlebaev, Yaroslav Bobitski, Joanna Kisała, Joanna Wojtas, Anna Żaczek, Štefan Hardoň and Alexander D. Pogrebnjak

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1813; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231813 - 30 Nov 2025

Abstract

Tantalum nitride (TaN) coatings are valued for their hardness, chemical inertness, and biocompatibility; however, they lack intrinsic antibacterial properties, which limits their application in biomedical environments. Introducing copper (Cu) into the TaN matrix offers a potential solution by combining TaN’s mechanical and chemical [...] Read more.

Tantalum nitride (TaN) coatings are valued for their hardness, chemical inertness, and biocompatibility; however, they lack intrinsic antibacterial properties, which limits their application in biomedical environments. Introducing copper (Cu) into the TaN matrix offers a potential solution by combining TaN’s mechanical and chemical durability with Cu’s well-documented antimicrobial action. This study explores how varying copper incorporation affects the structural, electrical, photocatalytic, and antibacterial characteristics of TaCuN multilayer films synthesized via reactive magnetron sputtering. Three thin TaCuN films were fabricated using a high-power reactive magnetron co-sputtering system, varying the Cu target power to control the composition. Structural and morphological analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning/transmission electron microscopy (STEM/TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Electrical conductivity was studied along and across the film surfaces at temperatures ranging from 20 to 375 K using AC impedance spectroscopy. Optical and photocatalytic properties were assessed using UV–Vis spectroscopy and methylene blue degradation tests. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was analyzed under visible light using CFU reduction tests. XRD and TEM analyses revealed a multilayered four-zone architecture with alternating Ta-, Cu-, and N-rich phases and a dominant cubic δ-TaN pattern. The layers exhibited pronounced conductivity anisotropy, with in-plane conductivity (~10³ Ω⁻¹ cm⁻¹) exceeding cross-plane conductivity by ~10⁷ times, attributed to the formation of a metallic conduction channel in the mid-layer. Optical spectra indicated limited light absorption above 300 nm and negligible photocatalytic activity. Increasing the Cu content substantially enhanced antibacterial efficiency, with the highest-Cu sample achieving 95.6 % bacterial growth reduction. Morphological evaluation indicated that smooth film surfaces (Ra < 0.2 μm) effectively minimized bacterial adhesion. Reactive magnetron sputtering enables the precise engineering of TaCuN multilayers, combining high electrical anisotropy with robust antibacterial functionality. The optimized TaCuN coating offers promising potential in biomedical and protective applications where both conductivity and microbial resistance are required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Functional Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications)

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3 pages, 149 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Quantum Dot Materials and Optoelectronic Devices

by Yaohong Zhang and Guohua Wu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1812; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231812 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs), representing a paradigmatic class of nanomaterials, have garnered substantial interest in both academic circles and industrial sectors over recent decades [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum Dot Materials and Optoelectronic Devices)

29 pages, 5186 KB

Open AccessArticle

Independent Channel Method for Lattice Thermal Conductance in Corrugated Graphene Ribbons

by Oliver I. Barreto and Chumin Wang

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1811; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231811 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Graphene’s extraordinary thermal conductivity makes it a compelling material for heat management in microelectronic circuits, lithium-ion batteries, and thermoelectric devices. In this article, we investigate its vibrational modes using a Born–von Karman model that includes first- and second-nearest-neighbor interactions. The resulting phonon dispersion [...] Read more.

Graphene’s extraordinary thermal conductivity makes it a compelling material for heat management in microelectronic circuits, lithium-ion batteries, and thermoelectric devices. In this article, we investigate its vibrational modes using a Born–von Karman model that includes first- and second-nearest-neighbor interactions. The resulting phonon dispersion relations agree well with experimental data, including acoustic flexural modes. To analyze phonon transport in mesoscopic graphene ribbons, we use both the Kubo–Greenwood and Landauer formalisms, as well as an independent channel method, which analytically maps zigzag-edged hexagonal ribbons into a set of single and dual chains via a unitary transformation. The resulting lattice thermal conductance spectra exhibit quantized steps that are smoothed in the presence of corrugations. We further explore the effects of temperature-induced rippling and buckling disorders on the phonon transport in graphene ribbons suspended over trenches. The predicted thermal conductance as a function of length and temperature closely matches experimental measurements, demonstrating the effectiveness of the independent channel method for the fully real-space modeling of corrugated graphene ribbons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electronic Structure and Transport Properties of Two-Dimensional Materials)

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18 pages, 3827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Performance Analysis of High-K Spacer-Induced Strained Si/SiGe Channel-Based Gate All Around FET for Thermal Effects

by Potaraju Yugender, Sneha Singh, Kuleen Kumar, Rudra Sankar Dhar, Alexey Y. Seteikin, Amit Banerjee and Ilia G. Samusev

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1810; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231810 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

A Gate Stack GAA FET using SiGe with a 2 nm gate underlap encapsulating a high-k spacer has been created, explored, and evaluated for improved performance in radio frequency applications. The chip shows significant improvements in electrical and radio frequency analog performance because [...] Read more.

A Gate Stack GAA FET using SiGe with a 2 nm gate underlap encapsulating a high-k spacer has been created, explored, and evaluated for improved performance in radio frequency applications. The chip shows significant improvements in electrical and radio frequency analog performance because of the use of wrapped underlaps of high-k, which suppress parasitic capacitance and fringing field effects, to achieve a 192.52% boost in drain current and 98% reduction in I_OFF current, translating into better performance. This new device, as proposed, has demonstrated improved switching behavior with the ability to reduce subthreshold swing by about 11.24% and results in a better Ion/Ioff ratio over existing devices, while also maintaining efficient control over other SCEs, with it being well-suited for the implementation of high-performance and low-power CMOS circuits. In addition, linearity parameters like VIP2, VIP3, and IIP3 reflect improvements, with the device having lesser harmonic distortions (IMD3 and THD), therefore making it more appropriate for RF and analog circuit uses. These results point to the prospect of SiGe-based Gate Stack GAA FETs with a 2 nm gate underlap encircling a high-k spacer for low-power, high-speed applications in IoT and 5G/6G technologies toward building environmentally friendly and sustainable electronic solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)

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14 pages, 6774 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication and Electrical Characterization of MgZnO/ZTO Thin-Film Transistors

by Yunpeng Hao, Chao Wang, Liang Guo, Yu Sun, Meihua Jin, Linbo Xu, Ying Huang, Yi Zong, Xiwen Xu and Jingxuan Zeng

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1809; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231809 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

To enhance the electrical performance of MgZnO-TFTs, this study employed radio-frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering to fabricate MgZnO/ZTO thin films. Using these films as the channel layer, bottom-gate top-contact MgZnO/ZTO-TFT devices were constructed. The thin films were characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and [...] Read more.

To enhance the electrical performance of MgZnO-TFTs, this study employed radio-frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering to fabricate MgZnO/ZTO thin films. Using these films as the channel layer, bottom-gate top-contact MgZnO/ZTO-TFT devices were constructed. The thin films were characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). After optimization, the MgZnO/ZTO-TFT exhibited a high field-effect mobility of 16.80 cm²·V⁻¹·s⁻¹, high Ion/off of 7.63 × 10⁸, threshold voltage of −1.60 V, and subthreshold swing as low as 0.74 V·dec⁻¹. Bias stress stability tests were conducted under positive bias stress (PBS) and negative bias stress (NBS) conditions with a source-drain voltage of 20 V and gate bias stresses (VGS) of +10 V and −10 V, respectively, for a duration of 1000 s. The resulting threshold voltage shifts were only +0.58 V and −0.15 V, respectively, indicating excellent bias stability. These results suggest that the ZTO film, serving as the lower channel layer, effectively enhances carrier transport at the MgZnO/ZTO interface, thereby improving the field-effect mobility and on/off current ratio. Meanwhile, the MgZnO film as the upper channel layer adjusts the device’s threshold voltage and enhances its bias stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)

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23 pages, 2542 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Light–Matter Interaction in Porous Silicon Microcavities Structurally Optimized Using Theoretical Simulation and Experimental Validation

by Evelyn Granizo, Irina S. Kriukova, Aleksandr A. Knysh, Pavel M. Sokolov, Pavel S. Samokhvalov and Igor R. Nabiev

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1808; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231808 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

Light–matter interactions in optical microcavities attract much attention due to their potential for controlling properties of materials. Among the various types of optical microcavities, porous silicon microcavities (pSiMCs) are of special interest because of their relatively simple fabrication procedure, tunable porosity, and large [...] Read more.

Light–matter interactions in optical microcavities attract much attention due to their potential for controlling properties of materials. Among the various types of optical microcavities, porous silicon microcavities (pSiMCs) are of special interest because of their relatively simple fabrication procedure, tunable porosity, and large specific surface area, which make them highly suitable for a wide range of optoelectronic and sensing applications. However, the fabrication of pSiMCs with precisely controlled parameters, which is crucial for effective light–matter coupling, remains challenging due to the multiple variables involved in the process. In addition, the parameter characterizing the capacity of pSiMCs for confining light inside the cavity (the quality factor, QF) rarely exceeds 100. Here, we present advanced methods and protocols for controlled fabrication of pSiMCs at room temperature, combining theoretical and numerical simulations and experimental validation of microcavity structural parameters for enhancing light–matter interactions. This systemic approach has been used to design and fabricate pSiMCs with an about twofold increased QF and correspondingly improved optical performance; the theoretical modeling shows that its further development is expected to increase the QF even more. In addition, we fabricated hybrid fluorescencent structures with the R6G dye embedded into the optimized pSiMCs. This provided a 5.8-fold narrowing of the R6G fluorescence spectrum caused by light–matter coupling, which indicated enhancement of the fluorescence signal at the eigenmode wavelength due to an increased rate of spontaneous emission in the cavity. The proposed methodology offers precise theoretical simulation of microcavities with the parameters required for specific practical applications, which facilitates optimization of microcavity design. The controllable optical properties of pSiMCs make them promising candidates for a wide range of applications where improved spectral resolution, and increased luminescence efficiency are required. This paves the way for further innovations in photonic systems and optoelectronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Porous Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties, and Application (Second Edition))

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17 pages, 13644 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study of Deposition Behavior for Cold-Sprayed Nano-Structured HA/70wt.%Ti Composite Coating

by Xiao Chen, Chengdi Li, Shuangxia Zhu, Peiyun Ao and Yao Hu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(23), 1807; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15231807 - 29 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study employs numerical simulations and experiments to examine the cold spray deposition of nanostructured hydroxyapatite (Ca₁₀(PO4)₆(OH)₂, HA)/70wt.%Ti composite particles under different processing conditions, based on the features of nanocomposites that strengthen interfacial adhesion and improve coating [...] Read more.

This study employs numerical simulations and experiments to examine the cold spray deposition of nanostructured hydroxyapatite (Ca₁₀(PO4)₆(OH)₂, HA)/70wt.%Ti composite particles under different processing conditions, based on the features of nanocomposites that strengthen interfacial adhesion and improve coating interfacial strength. Using ABAQUS/CAE combined with LS-PrePost 4.9-x64 software, the deposition behavior of the composite particles during deposition under various impact velocities was analyzed, along with the stress of the HA and Ti particles within the composite particle. The deposition behavior of both single and multiple composite particles under different gas temperatures was studied through cold spray experiments, and composite coatings were fabricated. The microstructure and phase composition were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the numerical simulations were consistent with the experimental analyses. As the particle velocity or gas temperature increased, the degree of particle deformation upon deposition became more pronounced, accompanied by phenomena such as cracking or fragmentation and splashing rebound. At a gas temperature of 700 °C, both the bonding density of individual particles and the bonding effectiveness of multi-particle deposits were lower than those achieved at 500 °C. The coating prepared at a gas temperature of 500 °C exhibited a flatter surface, better overall bonding with the Ti interlayer, and higher internal density. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation, Characterization, Properties, Simulation, and Applications of Nanostructured Materials)

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