Search Results (436)

Advanced oxidation processes using porphyrin-based heterogeneous catalysts hold promise for removing hazardous pollutants from wastewater. Their high visible-light absorption coefficients enable absorption of light from the solar spectrum. Moreover, their conjugated aromatic skeletons and intrinsic electronic properties facilitate the delocalization of photogenerated electrons during photodegradation. Delaying the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs by introducing specific materials increases efficiency, as separated charges have more time to participate in redox reactions, boosting photocatalytic activities. However, applying these photocatalysts for wastewater treatment is challenging owing to facile agglomeration, deactivation, and recovery of the photocatalyst for reuse, which can significantly increase the overall cost. Therefore, new photocatalytic systems comprising porphyrin molecules must be developed. For this purpose, porphyrins can be conjugated to nanomaterials to create hybrid materials with photocatalytic efficiencies superior to those of free-standing starting porphyrins. Various transition metal oxides (TiO₂, ZnO, and Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles, main-group-element oxides (Al₂O₃ and SiO₂) nanoparticles, metal plasmons (silver nanoparticles), carbon-based platforms (graphene, graphene oxide, and g-C₃N₄), and polymer matrices have been used as nanostructured solid supports for the successful fabrication of porphyrin-conjugated hybrid materials. The conjugation of porphyrin molecules to solid supports improves the photocatalytic degradation activity in terms of visible-light conversion ability, recyclability, active porous sites, substrate mobility, separation of photogenerated charge species, recovery for reuse, and chemical stability, along with preventing the generation of secondary pollution. This review discusses the ongoing development of porphyrin-conjugated hybrid nanomaterials for the heterogeneous photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes, pharmaceutical pollutants, heavy metals, pesticides, and human care in water. Several important results and advancements in the field allow for a more efficient wastewater remediation process. Full article

Selective functionalisation of inert C(sp³)–H bonds in alkanes and cycloalkanes remains one of the main challenges in the field of environmentally sustainable chemistry. This review provides a critical assessment of current catalytic strategies, in particular addressing the persistent problem of overoxidation and low selectivity. Going beyond traditional compartmentalised summaries, this work identifies a significant trend towards the integration of non-traditional activation methods, including ultrasonic cavitation, photocatalysis, and nanosecond pulse discharges, in both homogeneous and heterogeneous systems. Key contributions include a comparative analysis of radical control strategies, in particular highlighting how intermediate hydroperoxides can be used to shift reaction pathways towards selectivity of over 97% for alcohols and ketones. In addition, we discuss the emerging role of carbon nanomaterials (e.g., fullerenes and brominated nanotubes) as active electron-rich carriers and catalysts that lower the energy barriers for C–H activation under mild, ‘green’ conditions. The review concludes that the future of scalable hydrocarbon oxidation lies in ‘hybrid’ approaches such as stabilising active metal centres in protective matrices (zeolites, polymers) while using physical stimuli (ultrasound) to overcome diffusion limitations. This unique perspective highlights the transition from purely chemical catalyst design to integrated process intensification, offering a roadmap for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly industrial technologies. Full article

Metallogels constitute a rapidly expanding class of hybrid soft materials in which metal ions, metal complexes, or metal-containing nanoparticles play a decisive structural and functional role within a three-dimensional gel network. Their unique combination of supramolecular assembly, metal-ligand coordination, and dynamic network behaviour provides tunable mechanical, optical, electrical, redox, and catalytic properties that are not accessible in conventional hydrogels or organogels. This review systematically summarises current knowledge on metallogels, beginning with a classification based on matrix type, dominant metal interaction and functional output, spanning metallohydrogels, metal-organic gels, metal-phenolic gels, nanoparticle-based gels, polymer-based metallogels and low-molecular-weight metallogels. Key synthesis pathways are discussed, including coordination-chemistry-driven formation, metal-ligand self-assembly, in situ reduction, diffusion-mediated strategies, sol-gel-like polymerisation, enzyme-assisted routes, and bio-derived fabrication. Particular emphasis is placed on structure-function relationships that enable the development of catalytic, conductive, luminescent, antimicrobial, and biomedical metallogels. The examples compiled here highlight the versatility and transformative potential of metallogels in next-generation soft technologies, including sensing, energy conversion, wound healing, drug delivery, and emerging applications such as soft electronics and on-skin catalytic or bioactive patches. By mapping current progress and emerging design principles, this review aims to support the rational engineering of metallogels for advanced technological and biomedical applications Full article

Waterborne polyurethane (WPU) and waterborne poly(urethane-urea) (WPUU) dispersions allow safer and more sustainable manufacturing of rechargeable batteries via water-based processing, while offering tunable adhesion and segmented-domain mechanics. Beyond conventional roles as binders and coatings, WPU/WPUU chemistries also support separator/interlayer and polymer-electrolyte designs for lithium-ion and lithium metal systems, where interfacial integrity, stress accommodation, and ion transport must be balanced. Here, we review WPU/WPUU fundamentals (building blocks, dispersion stabilization, morphology, and film formation) and review prior studies through a battery-centric structure–processing–property lens. We point out key performance-limiting trade-offs—adhesion versus electrolyte uptake and ionic conductivity versus storage modulus—and relate them to practical formulation variables, including soft-/hard-segment selection, ionic center/counterion design, molecular weight/topology control, and crosslinking strategies. Applications are reviewed for (i) electrode binders (graphite/Si; cathodes such as LFP and NMC), (ii) separator coatings and functional interlayers, and (iii) gel/solid polymer electrolytes and hybrid composites, with a focus on practical design guidelines for navigating these trade-offs. Future advancements in WPU/WPUU chemistries will depend on developing stable, low-impedance interlayers, enhancing electrochemical behavior, and establishing application-specific design guidelines to optimize performance in lithium metal batteries (LMB). Full article

Powder bed fusion (PBF) is a widely adopted additive manufacturing (AM) process category that enables high-resolution fabrication across metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. However, its inherent process complexity demands robust modeling to ensure quality, reliability, and scalability. This review provides a critical synthesis of advances in physics-based simulations, machine learning, and digital twin frameworks for PBF. We analyze progress across scales—from micro-scale melt pool dynamics and mesoscale track stability to part-scale residual stress predictions—while highlighting the growing role of hybrid physics–data-driven approaches in capturing process–structure–property (PSP) relationships. Special emphasis is given to the integration of real-time sensing, multi-scale modeling, and AI-enhanced optimization, which together form the foundation of emerging PBF digital twins. Key challenges—including computational cost, data scarcity, and model interoperability—are critically examined, alongside opportunities for scalable, interpretable, and industry-ready digital twin platforms. By outlining both the current state-of-the-art and future research priorities, this review positions digital twins as a transformative paradigm for advancing PBF toward reliable, high-quality, and industrially scalable manufacturing. Full article

In this study, we report a reproducible in situ photochemical method for the simultaneous synthesis of metallic and hybrid metal/metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) within a UV–curable polymer matrix. A series of epoxy diacrylate-based formulations (BEA) was prepared, consisting of Epoxy diacrylate, Di(Ethylene glycol)ethyl ether acrylate (DEGEEA), and Phenylbis (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (BAPO), which served as a Type I photoinitiator. These formulations were designed to enable the simultaneous photopolymerization and photoreduction of metal precursors at various Ag⁺/Co²⁺ ratios, resulting in nanocomposites containing in situ-formed Ag NPs, cobalt oxide NPs, and hybrid Ag–Co₃O₄ nanostructures. The photochemical, magnetic, and dielectric properties of the resulting nanocomposites were evaluated in comparison with those of the pure polymer using UV–Vis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Photo-Differential Scanning Calorimetry (Photo-DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Impedance Analysis, and Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM). Photo-DSC studies revealed that the highest conversion values were obtained for the BEA-Ag₁Co₁, BEA-Co, and BEA-Ag₁Co₂ samples, demonstrating that the presence of Co₃O₄ NPs enhances polymerization efficiency because of cobalt species participating in redox-assisted radical generation under UV irradiation, increasing the number of initiating radicals and leading to faster curing and higher final conversion. On the other hand, the Ag NPs, due to the SPR band formation at around 400 nm, compete with photoinitiator absorbance and result in a gradual decrease in conversion values. Crystal structures of the NPs were confirmed by XRD analyses. The dielectric and magnetic characteristics of the nanocomposites suggest potential applicability in energy-storage systems, electromagnetic interference mitigation, radar-absorbing materials, and related multifunctional electronic applications. Full article

In this research, we assess the feasibility of employing hybrid friction stir channeling (HFSC) to produce composite panels that combined an 8 mm thick AA6082-T6 aluminum alloy and 5 mm thick glass-fiber-reinforced Noryl GFN2. HFSC is an innovative solid-state technology that combines both friction stir joining and channeling characteristics, which enable the generation of integral internal channels while joining different components. A parametric study was outlined to explore the effects of the travel speed, probe length, and tool plunging on the resulting composite panels. The resulting composite panels were subsequently subjected to a comprehensive analysis encompassing exterior ceiling quality, internal channel, and joining interface morphology. Depending on the processing parameters, the geometry of the channels was found to be quasi-rectangular or quasi-trapezoidal, with significant variability on cross-sectional area, resulting in hydraulic diameters ranging from 1.2 to 2.9 mm. The joining interface was characterized by a concavity of aluminum that was extruded downwards into the polymeric molten pool, which was clinched after polymeric re-solidification. The experimental results prove the ability to join metals and polymers while creating an integral channel in a single process step using HFSC. Despite the positive effect of irregular shaped channels on heat exchange, the numerical models evidenced a detrimental effect of 14.3 and 16.3% on ultimate tensile and flexural loads, respectively. This way, this fabrication technology evidenced promising characteristics that are suitable for manufacturing thermal management systems such as conformal cooling for plastic injection molding or battery trays for EVs. Full article

Background: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are metallic nanoparticles with strong biomedical potential and have FDA approval. Their nanoscale size, optical tunability, and biocompatibility allow them to be used for tumor-targeted delivery, photothermal therapy, imaging contrast, radiosensitization, gene transfection, biosensing, personalized medicine and AI-supported healthcare solutions. These properties made AuNPs a game-changing tool in nanomedicine. Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect were used to search the literature with keywords related to gold nanoparticles, synthesis, functionalization and advanced applications in biomedicine. The search mainly focused on studies published between 2018–2025, and older landmark papers were only included when needed to describe classical synthesis. Results: Standard AuNP synthesis and functionalization approaches were compared with advanced methods such as green synthesis, microfluidic synthesis, polymer functionalization and AI-supported synthesis optimization. AuNPs moved from traditional drug administration and basic diagnostics into multiplex imaging, targeted therapy, hybrid theranostics, spectral CT imaging, gene delivery and CRISPR-related applications. Conclusions: This review demonstrates the evolution of AuNPs in biomedicine from traditional nanoparticles to sophisticated multifunctional nanosystems. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first assessment that explicitly contrasts sophisticated AuNP techniques with conventional procedures in biomedical applications. Full article

This study addresses the issue of adapting the thermal drilling process for joining dissimilar thin-walled materials—sheets made of non-ferrous metal alloys and polymer composites with a thermoplastic matrix reinforced with glass and carbon fibers—without the use of connecting elements and without disrupting the continuity of the reinforcing fibers. An extensive metallographic study was conducted on bushings formed in thin metal sheets made of EN AW 6082 T6 aluminum alloy and AZ91 magnesium alloy obtained during separate drilling procedures. Experiments were also performed where the metal sheet and composite material overlapped, using both direct and sequential drilling above the melting point of the polymer matrix, applying various process parameters. The dimensions of the resulting bushings and the suitability of their profile for joining with composites were evaluated. The results suggest the possibility of joining metals and fiber composites through thermal drilling, and suitable joining process parameters and conditions are specified. To limit composite delamination, it is advisable to make a hem flange on the reverse side of the joints. CT scans confirmed the deflection of fibers around the hole in the composite without compromising their integrity. The load-bearing capacity of the joints and the possibility of creating hybrid mechanical–adhesive joints between these materials are the subject of Part Two of this study. Full article

Over the past decades, coronary revascularization has evolved dramatically with the introduction of bioresorbable scaffolds (BRSs), designed to provide temporary vessel support, elute antiproliferative drugs, and then fully resorb, ideally restoring natural vasomotion and eliminating long-term foreign-body reactions. Early enthusiasm for first-generation polymeric devices, such as the Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold, was tempered by increased rates of scaffold thrombosis and late adverse events, largely attributed to thick struts, suboptimal implantation techniques, and unpredictable degradation kinetics. Subsequent developments in polymeric (e.g., MeRes-100, NeoVas) and metallic magnesium-based scaffolds (e.g., Magmaris) have focused on thinner struts, improved radial strength, and refined resorption profiles. Clinical trials and meta-analyses, including ABSORB, AIDA, BIOSOLVE, and BIOSTEMI, reveal that optimized procedural strategies, especially the “PSP” approach (Prepare–Size–Post-dilate) and routine intravascular imaging, substantially reduce thrombosis and restenosis rates, aligning outcomes closer to those of contemporary drug-eluting stents (DESs). Nonetheless, challenges persist regarding inflammatory responses to degradation by-products, mechanical fragility in complex lesions, and patient selection. Ongoing innovations include hybrid polymer–metal designs, stimuli-responsive drug coatings, and AI-assisted imaging for precision implantation. While early-generation BRSs demonstrated both promise and pitfalls, next-generation platforms show steady progress toward achieving the dual goals of transient scaffolding and long-term vessel restoration. The current trajectory suggests that bioresorbable technology, supported by optimized technique and material science, may soon fulfill its original vision; offering safe, effective, and fully resorbable alternatives to permanent metallic stents in coronary artery disease. This review provides an updated synthesis of the design principles, clinical outcomes, and procedural considerations of drug-eluting bioresorbable scaffolds (BRSs). It integrates recent meta-analytic evidence and emerging insights on device mechanics, including the influence of strut thickness on radial strength and the potential role of non-invasive imaging in pre-implantation planning. Special focus is given to magnesium-based scaffolds and future directions in patient selection and implantation strategy. Full article

The emergence of electrically conductive polymeric materials has revolutionized the landscape of sustainable energy technologies, presenting unprecedented opportunities for advancing both photovoltaic conversion systems and electrochemical energy-storage platforms. These remarkable macromolecular materials exhibit distinctive characteristics including adjustable electronic band structures, exceptional mechanical adaptability, solution-phase processability, and cost-effective manufacturing potential. This extensive review provides an in-depth examination of the fundamental principles governing charge carrier mobility in conjugated polymer systems, explores diverse synthetic methodologies for tailoring molecular architectures, and analyzes their transformative applications across multiple energy technology domains. In photovoltaic technologies, electrically conductive polymers have driven major advancements in organic solar cells and photoelectrochemical systems, significantly improving energy conversion efficiency while reducing manufacturing costs. In electrochemical energy storage, their integration into supercapacitors and rechargeable lithium-based batteries has enhanced charge storage capability, accelerated charge–discharge processes, and extended operational lifespan compared with conventional electrode materials. This comprehensive analysis emphasizes emerging developments in hybrid composite architectures that combine conductive polymers with carbon-based nanomaterials, metal oxides, and other functional components to create next-generation flexible, lightweight, and wearable energy systems. By synthesizing fundamental materials chemistry with device engineering perspectives, this review illuminates the transformative potential of electrically conductive polymers in establishing sustainable, efficient, and resilient energy infrastructures for future technological landscapes. Full article

In recent years, polymer-based hybrid nanocomposites have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional heavy metal shields due to their low density, flexibility, and environmental safety. In this study, the synthesis of PS-PEG copolymers and the gamma radiation-shielding properties of PS-PEG/As₂O₃, PS-PEG/BN, and PS-PEG/As₂O₃/BN nanocomposites with different compositions are investigated. The goal is to find the optimal nanocomposite composition for gamma radiation shielding and dosimetry. Therefore, the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), half-value layer (HVL), tenth-value layer (TVL), effective atomic number, mean free path (MFP), radiation shielding efficiency (RPE), electron density, and specific gamma-ray constant were presented. Gamma rays emitted by the Eu source were detected by a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector device. GammaVision was used to analyze the given data. Photon energy was in the vicinity of 121.8–1408.0 keV. The MAC values in XCOM simulation tools were used to compute. Gamma-shielding efficiency was increased by an increased number of NPs at a smaller photon energy. At 121.8 keV, the HVL of a composite with 70 wt% As₂O₃ NPs is 2.00 cm, which is comparable to the HVL of lead (0.56 cm) at the same energy level. Due to the increasing need for lightweight, flexible, and lead-free shielding materials, PS-b-PEG copolymer-based nanocomposites reinforced with arsenic oxide and BN NPs will be materials of significant interest for next-generation radiation protection applications. Full article

Background: Nanomedicine has demonstrated great potential to improve drug delivery across various diseases. However, accurately monitoring the real-time trafficking of organic nanoparticles (NPs) within biological systems remains a significant challenge. Current detection methods rely heavily on fluorescence, while high-resolution, label-free imaging is often precluded by the limited optical contrast of organic materials, limiting a comprehensive understanding of NP fate. Metallic doping allows simultaneous detection of carriers using multiple imaging and analysis techniques. This study presents a novel approach to prepare gold-doped hybrid NPs compatible with multimodal imaging, thus facilitating multimodal tracking. Methods: Gold-doped NPs were successfully synthesized via nanoprecipitation, yielding stable, monodisperse carriers with optimal size, confirmed by Dynamic Light Scattering and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis. UV/Vis spectroscopy confirmed effective gold-doping, with doping efficiency of approximately 50%. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) showed gold NP accumulation throughout the polymer core and near the lipid shell. Results: Although gold doping resulted in a slight increase in NP size and zeta potential, no effects on cytocompatibility or cellular uptake by glioblastoma and microglia cells were observed. Furthermore, the optical properties (i.e., the refractive index and the UV spectrum) of the NPs were successfully modified to enable tracking across complementary imaging modalities. Real-time, label-free visualization of NP accumulation in the cytoplasm of U87 cells was achieved via holotomography by exploiting the enhanced refractive index after gold-doping. This observation was confirmed through correlation with fluorescence confocal microscopy, using fluorescently labelled gold-doped NPs. Furthermore, the high electron density of the gold tracer facilitated the precise localization of NPs within intracellular compartments via TEM, bypassing the inherently low contrast of organic NPs. Conclusions: These findings validated the gold-doped NPs as versatile nanoplatforms for multimodal imaging, showcasing their potential for non-invasive, high-resolution tracking and more accurate quantification of intracellular accumulation using diverse analytical techniques. Full article

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are among the most adaptable nanocarriers in modern pharmaceutics, characterized by a high surface area, tunable pore size, controllable morphology, and excellent biocompatibility. These qualities enable effective encapsulation, protection, and the delivery of drugs in a specific area and, therefore, MSNs are powerful platforms for the targeted and controlled delivery of drugs and theragnostic agents. Over the past ten years and within the 2021–2025 period, the advancement of MSN design has led to the creation of hybrid nanostructures into polymers, lipids, metals, and biomolecules that have yielded multifunctional carriers with enhanced stability, responsiveness, and biological activities. The current review provides a review of the synthesis methods, surface functionalization techniques, and physicochemical characterization techniques that define the next-generation MSN-based delivery systems. The particular focus is put on stimuli-responsive systems, such as redox, pH, enzyme-activated, and light-activated systems, that enable delivering drugs in a controlled and localized manner. We further provide a summary of the biomedical use of MSNs and their hybrids such as in cancer chemotherapy, gene and nucleic acid delivery, antimicrobial and vaccine delivery, and central nervous system targeting, supported by recent in vivo and in vitro studies. Important evaluations of biocompatibility, immunogenicity, degradation, and biodistribution in vivo are also provided with a focus on safety in addition to the regulatory impediments to clinical translation. The review concludes by saying that there are still limitations such as large-scale reproducibility, long-term toxicity, and standardization by the regulators, and that directions are being taken in the future in the fields of smart programmable nanocarriers, green synthesis, and sustainable manufacture. Overall, mesoporous silica and hybrid nanoparticles represent a breakthrough technology in the nanomedicine sector with potentials that are unrivaled in relation to targeted, controlled, and personalized therapeutic interventions. Full article

Rare-earth oxide (REO) nanoparticles (NPs)—such as cerium (CeO₂), samarium (Sm₂O₃), neodymium (Nd₂O₃), terbium (Tb₄O₇), and praseodymium (Pr₂O₃)—have demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Their effectiveness is attributed to unique physicochemical properties, including oxygen vacancies and redox cycling, which facilitate the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage microbial membranes and biomolecules. Additionally, electrostatic interactions with microbial surfaces and sustained ion release contribute to membrane disruption and long-term antimicrobial effects. REOs also inhibit bacterial enzymes, DNA, and protein synthesis, providing broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungal pathogens. However, dose-dependent cytotoxicity to mammalian cells—primarily due to excessive ROS generation—and nanoparticle aggregation in biological media remain challenges. Surface functionalization with polymers, peptides, or metal dopants (e.g., Ag, Zn, and Cu) can mitigate cytotoxicity and enhance selectivity. Scalable and sustainable synthesis remains a challenge due to high synthesis costs and scalability issues in industrial production. Green and biogenic routes using plant or microbial extracts can produce REOs at lower cost and with improved safety. Advanced continuous flow and microwave-assisted synthesis offer improved particle uniformity and production yields. Biomedical applications include antimicrobial coatings, wound dressings, and hybrid nanozyme systems for oxidative disinfection. However, comprehensive and intensive toxicological evaluations, along with regulatory frameworks, are required before clinical deployment. Full article