Journal Description
Surfaces
Surfaces
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of surface and interface science published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus, Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.3 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Materials Science (miscellaneous))
- 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.
Impact Factor:
2.9 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.7 (2024)
Latest Articles
Second Harmonic Generation Imaging of Strain-Induced Domain Evolution Across Grain Boundaries in SrTiO3 Bicrystals
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030047 - 1 Jul 2025
Abstract
Understanding strain behavior near grain boundaries is critical for controlling structural distortions and oxygen vacancy migration in perovskite oxides. However, conventional techniques often lack the spatial resolution needed to analyze phase and domain evolution at the nanoscale. In this paper, polarization-dependent second-harmonic generation
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Understanding strain behavior near grain boundaries is critical for controlling structural distortions and oxygen vacancy migration in perovskite oxides. However, conventional techniques often lack the spatial resolution needed to analyze phase and domain evolution at the nanoscale. In this paper, polarization-dependent second-harmonic generation (SHG) imaging is employed as a tool to probe local symmetry breaking and complex domain structures in the vicinity of a low-angle grain boundary of SrTiO3 (STO) bicrystals. We show that the anisotropic strain introduced by a tilted grain boundary produces strong local distortions, leading to the coexistence of tetragonal and rhombohedral domains. By analyzing SHG intensity and variations in the second-order nonlinear optical susceptibility, we map the distribution of strain fields and domain configurations near the boundary. In pristine samples, the grain boundary acts as a localized source of strain accumulation and symmetry breaking, while in samples subjected to intentional electrical stressing, the SHG response becomes broader and more uniform, suggesting strain relaxation. This work highlights SHG imaging as a powerful technique for visualizing grain-boundary-driven structural changes, with broad implications for the design of strain-engineered functional oxide devices.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Featured Articles for Surfaces)
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Open AccessArticle
Co-Effect of pH Control Agent and pH Value on the Physical Properties of ZnO Thin Films Obtained by Chemical Bath Deposition for Potential Application in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
by
Alphonse Déssoudji Gboglo, Mazabalo Baneto, Komlan Segbéya Gadedjisso-Tossou, Ognanmi Ako, Ayayi Claude Ahyi, Muthiah Haris, Muthusamy Senthilkumar, Kekeli N’konou, Bruno Grandidier, Katawoura Beltako, Komi Apélété Amou and Milohum Mikesokpo Dzagli
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030046 - 1 Jul 2025
Abstract
This study presents the influence of pH control agents and pH value on the physical properties of ZnO thin films obtained by chemical bath deposition. ZnO thin films were synthesized on glass substrates using precursor solutions of different pHs prepared from two bases:
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This study presents the influence of pH control agents and pH value on the physical properties of ZnO thin films obtained by chemical bath deposition. ZnO thin films were synthesized on glass substrates using precursor solutions of different pHs prepared from two bases: sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonia (NH3). The effect of pH values on the morphological, structural, and optical properties of ZnO thin films was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Visible spectroscopy. XRD results showed that all the synthesized ZnO thin films are polycrystalline and crystallize in a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The crystallite size, calculated using the Debye–Scherrer formula, varied from 10.50 nm to 11.69 nm for ZnO thin films obtained with NH3 and from 20.79 nm to 27.76 nm for those obtained with NaOH. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups. SEM images indicated that not only the base but also the pH affects the morphology of the films, giving rise to different granular shapes. Overall, the ZnO thin films obtained with NaOH looked more mesoporous compared to those obtained with NH3. Optical characterization results showed that whatever the base used, the pH of the precursor solution affected the ZnO thin film transmittance. Films synthesized with NH3 exhibited the best transmittance (80%) at pH 8.5, while the best transmittance (81%) of films synthesized with NaOH was obtained at pH 8 in the visible region. Based on optical and morphological properties, ZnO films obtained from NH3 at pH 8.5 are found to be more suitable as photoanodes in dye-sensitized solar cells.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering of Thin Films)
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An Exploration of SPS Fabrication and the Sliding Wear Properties of γ-TiAl-Ag Self-Lubrication Materials
by
Na Xiao, Chenglong Yang, Shengfei Zhou, Yuliang Yin, Dian Zhao, Yulong Shi and Kang Yang
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030045 - 30 Jun 2025
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To promote the optimization of the anti-friction and anti-wear behavior of lightweight TiAl alloys, γ-TiAl-10 wt.% Ag self-lubricating composites were fabricated, and their mechanical and tribological properties were tested. The results showed that the silver in TiAl-10 wt.% Ag slightly reduced its mechanical
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To promote the optimization of the anti-friction and anti-wear behavior of lightweight TiAl alloys, γ-TiAl-10 wt.% Ag self-lubricating composites were fabricated, and their mechanical and tribological properties were tested. The results showed that the silver in TiAl-10 wt.% Ag slightly reduced its mechanical properties compared with those of pure TiAl alloys. A silver-enriched lubrication film formed on a wear scar, which was helpful in improving the friction and wear behavior. It was found that a large amount of silver gathered at a wear scar, gradually spread out under the action of the sliding friction force, and then increased the silver distribution areas on the wear scar, leading to the good formation of a silver-rich film. Furthermore, an identification model was established to calculate the specific area η of the silver film. A quantitative relationship indicated that an increase in the Ag distribution area improved the tribological behavior of γ-TiAl-10 wt.% Ag. When the specific area η of a silver-rich film was maintained at 44–51%, the small friction coefficient (almost 0.28) and wear rate (about 2.25 × 10−4 mm3·N−1·m−1) were well stabilized. This provides a new research method to improve the tribological performance of TiAl-Ag samples.
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Open AccessCommunication
Glucose-Mediated Microstructure Refinement of Electroless Silver Coatings on Atomized Fe Particles
by
Dehou Song, Tiebao Wang, Lichen Zhao, Pan Gong and Xin Wang
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030044 - 25 Jun 2025
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Electroless silver (Ag) plating has emerged as a simple yet effective surface modification technique, garnering significant attention in consumer electronics and composite materials. This study systematically investigates the influence of glucose dosage on the microstructural refinement of Ag coatings deposited from silver–ammonia solutions
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Electroless silver (Ag) plating has emerged as a simple yet effective surface modification technique, garnering significant attention in consumer electronics and composite materials. This study systematically investigates the influence of glucose dosage on the microstructural refinement of Ag coatings deposited from silver–ammonia solutions onto iron (Fe) particles while also evaluating the oxidation resistance of Ag-plated particles through thermogravimetric analysis. Optimal results were achieved at a silver nitrate concentration of 0.02 mol/L and a glucose concentration of 0.05 mol/L, producing Fe particles with a uniform and dense silver coating featuring an average Ag grain size of 76 nm. The moderate excess glucose played a dual role: facilitating Ag+ ion reduction while simultaneously inhibiting the growth of Ag atomic clusters, thereby ensuring microstructural refinement of the silver layer. Notably, the Ag-plated particles demonstrated superior oxidation resistance compared to their uncoated counterparts. These findings highlight the significance of fine-grained electroless Ag plating in developing high-temperature conductive metal particles and optimizing interfacial structures in composite materials.
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Open AccessArticle
Hierarchical Manganese-Doped Nickel–Cobalt Oxide Electrodes with Graphene for Use as High-Energy-Density Supercapacitors
by
Kuan-Ching Lee, Guan-Ting Pan, Thomas Chung-Kuang Yang, Po-Cheng Shen, Kuan Lun Pan, Timm Joyce Tiong, Aleksandar N. Nikoloski and Chao-Ming Huang
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030043 - 25 Jun 2025
Abstract
Thin films of manganese–nickel–cobalt oxide with graphene (G@MNCO) were deposited on copper foam using electrochemical deposition. NiCo2O4 is the main phase in these films. As the proportion of graphene in the precursor solution increases, the oxygen vacancies in the samples
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Thin films of manganese–nickel–cobalt oxide with graphene (G@MNCO) were deposited on copper foam using electrochemical deposition. NiCo2O4 is the main phase in these films. As the proportion of graphene in the precursor solution increases, the oxygen vacancies in the samples also increase. The microstructure of these samples evolves into hierarchical vertical flake structures. Cyclic voltammetry measurements conducted within the potential range of 0–1.2 V reveal that the electrode with the highest graphene content achieves the highest specific capacitance, approximately 475 F/g. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent cycling durability, maintaining 95.0% of its initial capacitance after 10,000 cycles. The superior electrochemical performance of the graphene-enhanced, manganese-doped nickel–cobalt oxide electrode is attributed to the synergistic contributions of the hierarchical G@MNCO structure, the three-dimensional Cu foam current collector, and the binder-free fabrication process. These features promote quicker electrolyte ion diffusion into the electrode material and ensure robust adhesion of the active materials to the current collector.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science in Electrochemical Energy Storage)
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Open AccessArticle
Hydrophobic Boron Nitride Nanoflower Coatings on Mild Steel Surfaces
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Aamir Nadeem, Muhammad Faheem Maqsood, Mohsin Ali Raza, Syed Muhammad Zain Mehdi and Shahbaz Ahmad
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030042 - 25 Jun 2025
Abstract
Growing demand for chemically resistant, thermally stable, and anti-icing coatings has intensified interest in boron nitride (BN)-based materials and surface coatings. In this study, BN coatings were developed on mild steel (MS) via chemical vapour deposition (CVD) at 1200 °C for 15, 30,
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Growing demand for chemically resistant, thermally stable, and anti-icing coatings has intensified interest in boron nitride (BN)-based materials and surface coatings. In this study, BN coatings were developed on mild steel (MS) via chemical vapour deposition (CVD) at 1200 °C for 15, 30, and 60 min, and their structural, surface, and water-repellent characteristics were evaluated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful formation of BN, while water contact angle measurements indicated high hydrophobicity, demonstrating excellent barrier properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed morphological evolution from flower- and needle-like BN structures in the sample placed in the CVD furnace for 15 min to dense, coral-like, and tubular networks in the samples placed for 30 and 60 min. These findings highlight that BN coatings, particularly the one obtained after 30 min of deposition, have a high hydrophobic character following the Cassie–Baxter model and can be used for corrosion resistance and anti-icing on MS, making them ideal for industrial applications requiring long-lasting protection.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering of Thin Films)
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The Effect of Low-Temperature Plasma Treatment on the Adhesive Bonding Performance of CF/PEKK Surfaces
by
Liwei Wen, Zhentao Dong and Ruozhou Wang
Surfaces 2025, 8(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8030041 - 20 Jun 2025
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Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymers inherently exhibit low surface activity, leading to poor adhesive bonding performance when using epoxy-based adhesives. In this study, low-temperature plasma surface modification was conducted on carbon fiber-reinforced polyetherketone ketone (CF/PEKK) composites to investigate the influence of plasma treatment parameters on
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Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymers inherently exhibit low surface activity, leading to poor adhesive bonding performance when using epoxy-based adhesives. In this study, low-temperature plasma surface modification was conducted on carbon fiber-reinforced polyetherketone ketone (CF/PEKK) composites to investigate the influence of plasma treatment parameters on their lap shear strength. Surface characterization was systematically performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle analysis to evaluate morphological, chemical, and wettability changes induced via plasma treatment. The results demonstrated a significant enhancement in lap shear strength after plasma treatment. Optimal bonding performance was achieved at a treatment speed of 10 mm/s and a nozzle-to-substrate distance of 5 mm, yielding a maximum shear strength of 28.28 MPa, a 238% improvement compared to the untreated control. Notably, the failure mode transitioned from interfacial fracture in the untreated sample to a mixed-mode failure dominated by cohesive failure of the adhesive and substrate. Plasma treatment substantially reduced the contact angle of CF/PEKK, indicating improved surface wettability. SEM micrographs revealed an increased micro-porous texture on the treated surface, which enhanced mechanical interlocking between the composite and adhesive. XPS analysis confirmed compositional alterations, specifically elevated oxygen-containing functional groups on the plasma-treated surface. These modifications facilitated stronger chemical bonding between CF/PEKK and the epoxy resin, thereby validating the efficacy of plasma treatment in optimizing surface chemical activity and adhesion performance.
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Wettability’s Challenge to High-Voltage Insulators: Polyurethane as Preventive Coating
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Touqeer Ahmad Raza, Muhammad Kamran, Syed Ahtisham Mehmood Shah and Muhammad Mehran Bashir
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020040 - 19 Jun 2025
Abstract
The failure of a porcelain insulator on a transmission line is a crucial cause of power supply interruptions, leading to poor reliability and revenue loss. The insulator’s performance is adversely affected by environmental contaminants, and wettability intensifies this adverse effect by developing a
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The failure of a porcelain insulator on a transmission line is a crucial cause of power supply interruptions, leading to poor reliability and revenue loss. The insulator’s performance is adversely affected by environmental contaminants, and wettability intensifies this adverse effect by developing a conductive path along the insulator’s surface, leading to premature flashover and insulator failure. This work aims to analyze the response of the electric field distribution and current density using the finite element method (FEM) under different wettability conditions. Discrete water droplets were placed along the surface, and the contact angle was varied to represent different levels of surface hydrophobicity. Abrupt rises and spikes were observed on the plots for the electric field and current density distribution, indicating distortion; however, the distortion kept on decreasing with the increase in the contact angle. Overall, the average stress followed a declining pattern, where the values of the electric field were reduced from 2.588 to 2.412 kV/cm, and current the density was reduced from 0.187 to 0.068 nA/cm2 for an increase in the contact angle from 60° to 140°. Simulation results advocate for hydrophobic insulator surfaces. Therefore, a proper coating is necessary to enrich hydrophobicity and mitigate the adversity of wettability. Polyurethane, due to its excellent hydrophobic and insulating properties, offers a potential coating. Flashover voltage tests have been performed for the coated insulator under dry and wet conditions, where the flashover voltage improved from 79.14 kV to 82.04 kV and 48.4 kV to 53.8 kV, respectively, which supports the simulations’ outcomes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science: Polymer Thin Films, Coatings and Adhesives)
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Open AccessArticle
Drying and Film Formation Processes of Graphene Oxide Suspension on Nonwoven Fibrous Membranes with Varying Wettability
by
Zeman Liu, Jiaxing Fan, Jian Xue and Fei Guo
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020039 - 18 Jun 2025
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO) films have attracted significant attention due to their potential in separation and filtration applications. Based on their unique lamellar structure and ultrathin nature, GO films are difficult to maintain in a free-standing form and typically require substrate support. Consequently, understanding
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Graphene oxide (GO) films have attracted significant attention due to their potential in separation and filtration applications. Based on their unique lamellar structure and ultrathin nature, GO films are difficult to maintain in a free-standing form and typically require substrate support. Consequently, understanding their film formation behavior and mechanisms on substrates is of paramount importance. This work employs commonly used nonwoven fibrous membranes as substrates and guided by the coffee-ring theory, systematically investigates the film formation behaviors, film morphology, and underlying mechanisms of GO films on fibrous membranes with varying wettability. Fibrous membranes with different wetting properties—hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and superhydrophobic—were prepared via electrospinning and initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) surface modification techniques. The spreading behaviors, deposition dynamics, capillary effects, and evaporation-induced film formation mechanisms of GO suspensions on these substrates were thoroughly examined. The results showed that GO formed belt-like, ring-like, and circular patterns on the three fibrous membranes, respectively. GO films encapsulated more than the upper half, approximately the upper half, and the top portion of fibers, respectively. Pronounced wrinkling of GO films was observed except for those on the hydrophilic fibrous membrane. This work demonstrates that tuning the wettability of fibrous substrates enables precise control over GO film morphology, including fiber encapsulation, wrinkling, and coverage area. Furthermore, it deepens the understanding of the interactions between 1D nanofibers and 2D GO sheets at low-dimensional scales, laying a foundational basis for the optimized design of membrane engineering.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering of Thin Films)
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Optimizing Crystalline MoS2 Growth on Technologically Relevant Platinum Substrates Using Ionized Jet Deposition: Interface Interactions and Structural Insights
by
Cristian Tomasi Cebotari, Christos Gatsios, Andrea Pedrielli, Lucia Nasi, Francesca Rossi, Andrea Chiappini, Riccardo Ceccato, Roberto Verucchi, Marco V. Nardi and Melanie Timpel
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020038 - 6 Jun 2025
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Transition metal dichalcogenides, especially molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), exhibit exceptional properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. However, the interaction between MoS2 and technologically relevant substrates, such as platinum (Pt) electrodes, can significantly influence its properties. This
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Transition metal dichalcogenides, especially molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), exhibit exceptional properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. However, the interaction between MoS2 and technologically relevant substrates, such as platinum (Pt) electrodes, can significantly influence its properties. This study investigates the growth and properties of MoS2 thin films on Pt substrates using ionized jet deposition, a versatile, low-cost vacuum deposition technique. We explore the effects of the roughness of Pt substrates and self-heating during deposition on the chemical composition, structure, and strain of MoS2 films. By optimizing the deposition system to achieve crystalline MoS2 at room temperature, we compare as-deposited and annealed films. The results reveal that as-deposited MoS2 films are initially amorphous and conform to the Pt substrate roughness, but crystalline growth is reached when the sample holder is sufficiently heated by the plasma. Further post-annealing at 270 °C enhances crystallinity and reduces sulfur-related defects. We also identify a change in the MoS2–Pt interface properties, with a reduction in Pt–S interactions after annealing. Our findings contribute to the understanding of MoS2 growth on Pt and provide insights for optimizing MoS2-based devices in catalysis and electronics.
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Open AccessArticle
Microstructural Evolution and Domain Engineering in Porous PZT Thin Films
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Evgeny Zhemerov, Arseniy Buryakov, Dmitry Seregin and Maxim Ivanov
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020037 - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Porous PZT films offer significant potential due to tunable electromechanical properties, yet the polarization behavior remains insufficiently understood because of discontinuous morphology and domain structures. In this work, we study the impact of porosity on the spontaneous polarization and electromechanical response of PZT
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Porous PZT films offer significant potential due to tunable electromechanical properties, yet the polarization behavior remains insufficiently understood because of discontinuous morphology and domain structures. In this work, we study the impact of porosity on the spontaneous polarization and electromechanical response of PZT thin films fabricated using a multilayer spin-coating technique with various concentrations (0–14%) of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a porogen. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) were employed to analyze the local topography, domain distribution, and polarization behavior of the films. The results indicate that increasing porosity leads to substantial changes in grain morphology, dielectric permittivity, and polarization response. Films with higher porosity exhibit a more fragmented polarization distribution and reduced piezoresponse, while certain orientations demonstrate enhanced domain mobility. Despite the decrease in overall polarization, the local coercive field remains relatively stable, suggesting structural stability during the local polarization switching. The findings highlight the crucial role of grain boundaries and local charge redistribution in determining local polarization behavior.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Featured Articles for Surfaces)
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Comparison of Continuous and Pulsed Low-Power DC Sputtered Ti Thin Films Deposited at Room Temperature
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Anna Maria Reider, Ariane Kronthaler, Fabio Zappa, Alexander Menzel, Felix Laimer and Paul Scheier
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020036 - 31 May 2025
Abstract
Titanium thin films with thicknesses of up to 105 nm were deposited on borosilicate glass implementing low-power continuous (25 W) and pulsed (85 W, with an ultra-low duty cycle) DC magnetron sputtering. The characteristics of the resulting films were studied via atomic force
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Titanium thin films with thicknesses of up to 105 nm were deposited on borosilicate glass implementing low-power continuous (25 W) and pulsed (85 W, with an ultra-low duty cycle) DC magnetron sputtering. The characteristics of the resulting films were studied via atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), VIS spectroscopy, and four-point-probe measurements. Both deposition modes yield films with low surface roughness, and AFM analysis showed no topographical features indicative of columnar-and-void structures. The films exhibited high optical reflectivity and stable transmittance and reflectance across the visible spectrum. The electric resistivity could be measured even at single nanometer thickness, emphasizing the metallic character of the films and approaching the bulk titanium value at higher film thicknesses. The low power regime of magnetron sputter deposition not only offers the possibility of studying the development of physical characteristics during the growth of ultra-thin films but also provides the advantage of extremely low heat development and no evident mechanical stress on the substrate during the coating process. These results outline a path for low-power DC sputtering as a reliable approach for studying the evolution of functional properties in ultra-thin films and for the gentle fabrication of coatings where thermal stress must be avoided, making the method compatible with temperature-sensitive applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering of Thin Films)
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Epitaxial Growth of Ni-Mn-Ga on Al2O3(
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Manuel G. Pinedo-Cuba, José M. Caicedo-Roque, Jessica Padilla-Pantoja, Justiniano Quispe-Marcatoma, Carlos V. Landauro, Víctor A. Peña-Rodríguez and José Santiso
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020035 - 30 May 2025
Abstract
Magnetic shape memory alloys have attracted considerable attention due to their multifunctional properties. Among these materials, Ni-Mn-Ga alloys are distinguished by their ability to achieve up to 10% strain when exposed to a magnetic field, a characteristic predominantly observed in single-crystal samples. Consequently,
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Magnetic shape memory alloys have attracted considerable attention due to their multifunctional properties. Among these materials, Ni-Mn-Ga alloys are distinguished by their ability to achieve up to 10% strain when exposed to a magnetic field, a characteristic predominantly observed in single-crystal samples. Consequently, it is essential to develop nanomaterials with a crystal structure closely resembling that of a single crystal. In this study, an epitaxial Ni-Mn-Ga thin film was fabricated using Pulsed Laser Deposition on an Al2O3 single-crystal substrate. The crystal structure was characterised through X-ray diffraction methodologies, such as symmetrical scans, pole figures, and reciprocal space maps. The results indicated that the sample was mainly in a slightly distorted cubic austenite phase, and some incipient martensite phase also appeared. A detailed microstructural analysis, performed by transmission electron microscopy, confirmed that certain regions of the sample exhibited an incipient transformation to the martensite phase. Regions closer to the substrate retained the austenite phase, suggesting that the constraint imposed by the substrate inhibits the phase transition. These results indicate that it is possible to grow high crystalline quality thin films of Ni-Mn-Ga by Pulsed Laser Deposition.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering of Thin Films)
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Open AccessArticle
TPA and PET Photo-Degradation by Heterogeneous Catalysis Using a (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 Coating
by
Mónica A. Camacho-González, Alberto Hernández-Reyes, Aristeo Garrido-Hernández, Octavio Olivares-Xometl, Natalya V. Likhanova and Irina V. Lijanova
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020034 - 21 May 2025
Cited by 1
Abstract
The combination of the catalytic properties of Al2O3/TiO2 formed an efficient system to degrade the ubiquitous pollutants TPA and PET. The coating (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Stainless steel disks
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The combination of the catalytic properties of Al2O3/TiO2 formed an efficient system to degrade the ubiquitous pollutants TPA and PET. The coating (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Stainless steel disks with photo-catalyst coating were placed transversely in a 3.0 L vertical glass reactor with ascending airflow for supplying oxygen to the reaction medium and visible light lamps for photo-activation. The analysis of the coating homogeneity, morphology and particle size distribution of the TiO2 coatings and (Al2O3)0.75TiO2 system were confirmed by SEM. Optical properties and band-gap energy were calculated by using the Tauc equation. UV–Vis spectrophotometry (UV–Vis) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were the quantitative techniques to measure the reduction in the initial TPA and PET concentrations.
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Open AccessArticle
Functional Polyacrylate Textile Coatings with N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) Immobilized on Zirconia, Alumina and Silica Sorbents
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Sergei Zverev, Sergei Andreev, Ekaterina Anosova, Varvara Morenova, Maria Rakitina and Vladimir Vinokurov
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020033 - 9 May 2025
Abstract
In this study, polymer films based on the inorganic sorbents Al2O3, ZrO2 and SiO2-phenyl with repellent N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide were prepared and used as functional textile coatings. The high sorption activity of oxides with respect
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In this study, polymer films based on the inorganic sorbents Al2O3, ZrO2 and SiO2-phenyl with repellent N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide were prepared and used as functional textile coatings. The high sorption activity of oxides with respect to N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (63–239 mg/g) allows for the use of these compounds as repellent carrier materials, and their mixture with polyacrylates allows for the formation of functional coatings–polymer films. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results revealed that the inorganic sorbents Al2O3, ZrO2 and SiO2-phenyl were successfully anchored in the polyacrylate structure, and the FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of repellent molecules. The thermal diffusion parameters of N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide were also calculated via thermogravimetric analysis and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection. The highest thermal diffusion rates and concentrations were observed for the material with Al2O3 (up to 148.3∙10−9 mol at 200 °C), and lower values for ZrO2 and SiO2-phenyl (up to 15.2∙10−9 mol and 34.3∙10−9 mol at 200 °C, respectively). The heat flux parameter Jf was also calculated according to Onsager’s theory and Fourier’s law. The release of repellent from polymeric materials can be achieved by applying less heat than that required to reach the boiling point of N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science: Polymer Thin Films, Coatings and Adhesives)
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Open AccessArticle
The Coordination of Lanthanide Atoms with Stone–Wales Defects on Graphene: A Cluster DFT Analysis Using ECP Pseudopotentials
by
Vladimir A. Basiuk and Elena V. Basiuk
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020032 - 9 May 2025
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The main goal of the present study was to verify in detail whether the use of a cluster model for Stone–Wales (SW) defect-containing graphene (SWG) to study the adsorption of Ln atoms yields results similar to those previously obtained by employing a periodic
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The main goal of the present study was to verify in detail whether the use of a cluster model for Stone–Wales (SW) defect-containing graphene (SWG) to study the adsorption of Ln atoms yields results similar to those previously obtained by employing a periodic model. We addressed this question by analyzing the optimized geometries of SWG + Ln complexes, their formation energies, and selected electronic parameters (in particular, the frontier orbital energies and atomic charges and spins). Within the frame of density functional theory, we used the computational methodology of the PBE-D2/DNP theoretical level using ECP pseudopotentials. The most important conclusion is that the use of a cluster model gives qualitatively similar results to those of the periodic model. While the corresponding plots of the dihedral angles θ versus the Ln atoms differ considerably, the two models have many common features in the trends of the bonding strength despite the use of two very different theoretical tools, namely periodic (plane waves) versus cluster calculations (localized basis sets). In comparing the results for SW defect-free and SW defect-containing cluster models, it is evident that SW defects serve as much more preferential adsorption sites compared to the conditions in the defect-free graphene model.
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Open AccessReview
Modelling and Simulation of Surface Diffusion in Heterogeneous Porous Materials
by
Sean P. Rigby
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020031 - 7 May 2025
Abstract
The surface diffusion flux is known to dominate mass transport within many amorphous porous materials, used as adsorbents, heterogeneous catalysts, and membranes, employed in many chemical processes. However, while the impact of surface coverage has been widely studied and reviewed, relatively little attention
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The surface diffusion flux is known to dominate mass transport within many amorphous porous materials, used as adsorbents, heterogeneous catalysts, and membranes, employed in many chemical processes. However, while the impact of surface coverage has been widely studied and reviewed, relatively little attention has been paid to the impact of surface geometric and energetic heterogeneity on the surface diffusion rate, which would inform intelligent materials selection. It was, thence, the aim of this work to survey studies of the impact of surface structure on surface diffusion. Since the so-called “maximally realistic” modelling approach is found to be infeasible, due to limitations on the degree of structural characterisation possible for complex disordered surfaces, and the level of detail and length scales it is possible to represent with current computing power, a range of alternative approaches have been adopted. It has been seen that the Galilean idealisation of atomistic models has rendered them sufficiently tractable in order to study the impact of certain surface features, such as traps or ruts, on surface diffusion. Theoretical justifications have been used to develop minimalist models of amorphous surfaces, and mass transport thereon, that do selectively include the key surface parameters, and have, therefore, been successfully empirically validated for a range of different surfaces and adsorbate types.
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Induced Effects of Nano-Patterned Substrates on the Electrical and Photo-Electrical Properties of PTB7-Th:ICBA (1:1, wt.%) Bulk-Heterojunction Solar Cells
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Tudor Suteu, Vlad-Andrei Antohe, Stefan Antohe, Ionel Stavarache, Maria Cristina Balasin, Gabriel Socol, Marcela Socol, Oana Rasoga and Sorina Iftimie
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020030 - 1 May 2025
Abstract
In this study, we detailed the fabrication and characterization of photovoltaic structures based on PTB7:ICBA (1:1, wt.%) bulk-heterojunction on optical glass substrates by spin-coating. Some samples were deposited on a flat substrate, and others were placed on a patterned substrate obtained by nano-imprinting
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In this study, we detailed the fabrication and characterization of photovoltaic structures based on PTB7:ICBA (1:1, wt.%) bulk-heterojunction on optical glass substrates by spin-coating. Some samples were deposited on a flat substrate, and others were placed on a patterned substrate obtained by nano-imprinting lithography; the induced effects were analyzed. We demonstrated that using a patterned substrate enhanced the maximum output power, primarily because the short-circuit current density increased. This can be considered a direct consequence of reduced optical reflection and improved optical absorption. The topological parameters evaluated by atomic force microscopy, namely, the root mean square, Skewness, and Kurtosis, had small values of around 2 nm and 1 nm, respectively. This proves that the mixture of a conductive polymer and a fullerene derivative creates a thin film network with a high flatness degree. The samples discussed in this paper were fabricated and characterized in air; we can admit that the results are encouraging, but further optimization is needed.
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Adsorption and Thermal Stability of Ionic Liquid Multilayers on ZnO Surfaces
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Zoë Henderson, Jordan Cole, Andrew G. Thomas, Robert G. Jones, Michael Wagstaffe, José Avila, María C. Asensio, Zheshen Li and Karen L. Syres
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020029 - 25 Apr 2025
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Ionic liquids (ILs) have been explored as a way of improving the performance of ZnO-based optoelectronic devices; however, there are few fundamental studies of the IL/ZnO interface. Here, the adsorption of the IL 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [C8C1Im][BF4] on
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Ionic liquids (ILs) have been explored as a way of improving the performance of ZnO-based optoelectronic devices; however, there are few fundamental studies of the IL/ZnO interface. Here, the adsorption of the IL 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [C8C1Im][BF4] on ZnO (0001) and ZnO ( ) has been studied using synchrotron-based soft X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results indicate that [C8C1Im][BF4] is deposited intact on the ZnO (0001) surface; however, there is some dissociation of [BF4]− anions, resulting in boron atoms attaching to the oxygen atoms in the ZnO surface and forming B2O3. In contrast, the deposition of [C8C1Im][BF4] on the ZnO ( ) surface at −150 °C results in the appearance of more chemical environments in the spectra. We propose that the high temperature of the IL evaporator causes some conversion of [C8C1Im][BF4] to a carbene–borane adduct, resulting in the deposition of both the IL and adduct onto the ZnO surface. The adsorption and desorption of the analogous IL 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [C4C1Im][BF4] was investigated on ZnO (0001) using synchrotron-based soft X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results indicate that [C4C1Im][BF4] is deposited largely intact at −150 °C and forms islands when heated to room temperature. When heated to over 80 °C, it begins to react with the ZnO surface and decomposes. This is a much lower temperature than the long-term thermal stability of the pure IL, quoted in the literature as ~400 °C, and of IL on powdered ZnO, quoted in the literature as ~300 °C. This indicates that the ZnO surface may catalyse the thermal decomposition of [C4C1Im][BF4] at lower temperatures. This is likely to have a negative impact on the potential use of ILs in ZnO-based photovoltaic applications, where operating temperatures can routinely reach 80 °C.
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Marangoni Flow-Driven Self-Assembly of Biomimetic Jellyfish-like Hydrogels for Spatially Controlled Enzyme Catalysis
by
Aoxiang Zhang, Huiying Zhou, Yanhui Guo and Yu Fu
Surfaces 2025, 8(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces8020028 - 22 Apr 2025
Abstract
Enzymatic catalysis has gained significant attention in green chemistry due to its high specificity and efficiency under mild conditions. However, challenges related to enzyme immobilization and spatial control often limit its practical applications. In this work, we report a Marangoni flow-driven strategy to
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Enzymatic catalysis has gained significant attention in green chemistry due to its high specificity and efficiency under mild conditions. However, challenges related to enzyme immobilization and spatial control often limit its practical applications. In this work, we report a Marangoni flow-driven strategy to fabricate a biomimetic jellyfish-like hydrogel with tunable tentacle-like structures. The formation process occurs entirely in an aqueous system without organic solvents or post-treatment, enabling the construction of ultra-thin, free-standing hydrogels through spontaneous interfacial self-assembly. The resulting structure exhibits high surface-area geometry and excellent biocompatibility, providing a versatile platform for localized enzyme loading. This method offers a simple and scalable route for engineering soft materials with complex morphologies, and expands the design space for bioinspired hydrogel systems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science: Polymer Thin Films, Coatings and Adhesives)
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