Journal Description
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials
is an international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary scholarly open access journal, published semimonthly online by MDPI. It publishes reviews, regular research papers, communications, and short notes that are relevant to any field of study that involves nanomaterials, with respect to their science and application. The Spanish Carbon Group (GEC) is affiliated with Nanomaterials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Physics, Applied) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Chemical Engineering)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Nanomaterials include: Nanomanufacturing and Applied Nano.
Impact Factor:
5.3 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Thickness-Dependent Gilbert Damping and Soft Magnetism in Metal/Co-Fe-B/Metal Sandwich Structure
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 596; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070596 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The achievement of the low Gilbert damping parameter in spin dynamic modulation is attractive for spintronic devices with low energy consumption and high speed. Metallic ferromagnetic alloy Co-Fe-B is a possible candidate due to its high compatibility with spintronic technologies. Here, we report
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The achievement of the low Gilbert damping parameter in spin dynamic modulation is attractive for spintronic devices with low energy consumption and high speed. Metallic ferromagnetic alloy Co-Fe-B is a possible candidate due to its high compatibility with spintronic technologies. Here, we report thickness-dependent damping and soft magnetism in Co-Fe-B films sandwiched between two non-magnetic layers with Co-Fe-B films up to 50 nm thick. A non-monotonic variation of Co-Fe-B film damping with thickness is observed, which is in contrast to previously reported monotonic trends. The minimum damping and the corresponding Co-Fe-B thickness vary significantly among the different non-magnetic layer series, indicating that the structure selection significantly alters the relative contributions of various damping mechanisms. Thus, we developed a quantitative method to distinguish intrinsic from extrinsic damping via ferromagnetic resonance measurements of thickness-dependent damping rather than the traditional numerical calculation method. By separating extrinsic and intrinsic damping, each mechanism affecting the total damping of Co-Fe-B films in sandwich structures is analyzed in detail. Our findings have revealed that the thickness-dependent damping measurement is an effective tool for quantitatively investigating different damping mechanisms. This investigation provides an understanding of underlying mechanisms and opens up avenues for achieving low damping in Co-Fe-B alloy film, which is beneficial for the applications in spintronic devices design and optimization.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Ferroelectric and Spintronic Nanoscale Materials)
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Open AccessReview
Autonomous Nanorobots as Miniaturized Surgeons for Intracellular Applications
by
Daitian Tang, Xiqi Peng, Song Wu and Songsong Tang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 595; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070595 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Artificial nanorobots have emerged as promising tools for a wide range of biomedical applications, including biosensing, detoxification, and drug delivery. Their unique ability to navigate confined spaces with precise control extends their operational scope to the cellular or subcellular level. By combining tailored
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Artificial nanorobots have emerged as promising tools for a wide range of biomedical applications, including biosensing, detoxification, and drug delivery. Their unique ability to navigate confined spaces with precise control extends their operational scope to the cellular or subcellular level. By combining tailored surface functionality and propulsion mechanisms, nanorobots demonstrate rapid penetration of cell membranes and efficient internalization, enhancing intracellular delivery capabilities. Moreover, their robust motion within cells enables targeted interactions with intracellular components, such as proteins, molecules, and organelles, leading to superior performance in intracellular biosensing and organelle-targeted cargo delivery. Consequently, nanorobots hold significant potential as miniaturized surgeons capable of directly modulating cellular dynamics and combating metastasis, thereby maximizing therapeutic outcomes for precision therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the propulsion modes of nanorobots and discuss essential factors to harness propulsive energy from the local environment or external power sources, including structure, material, and engine selection. We then discuss key advancements in nanorobot technology for various intracellular applications. Finally, we address important considerations for future nanorobot design to facilitate their translation into clinical practice and unlock their full potential in biomedical research and healthcare.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Fabricating Planar Perovskite Solar Cells through a Greener Approach
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Sajid Sajid, Salem Alzahmi, Nouar Tabet, Yousef Haik and Ihab M. Obaidat
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 594; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070594 (registering DOI) - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
High-quality perovskite thin films are typically produced via solvent engineering, which results in efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Nevertheless, the use of hazardous solvents like precursor solvents (N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)) and antisolvents (chlorobenzene (CB), dibutyl ether (DEE),
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High-quality perovskite thin films are typically produced via solvent engineering, which results in efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Nevertheless, the use of hazardous solvents like precursor solvents (N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)) and antisolvents (chlorobenzene (CB), dibutyl ether (DEE), diethyl ether (Et2O), etc.) is crucial to the preparation of perovskite solutions and the control of perovskite thin film crystallization. The consumption of hazardous solvents poses an imminent threat to both the health of manufacturers and the environment. Consequently, before PSCs are commercialized, the current concerns about the toxicity of solvents must be addressed. In this study, we fabricated highly efficient planar PSCs using a novel, environmentally friendly method. Initially, we employed a greener solvent engineering approach that substituted the hazardous precursor solvents with an environmentally friendly solvent called triethyl phosphate (TEP). In the following stage, we fabricated perovskite thin films without the use of an antisolvent by employing a two-step procedure. Of all the greener techniques used to fabricate PSCs, the FTO/SnO2/MAFAPbI3/spiro-OMeTAD planar device configuration yielded the highest PCE of 20.98%. Therefore, this work addresses the toxicity of the solvents used in the perovskite film fabrication procedure and provides a promising universal method for producing PSCs with high efficiency. The aforementioned environmentally friendly approach might allow for PSC fabrication on an industrial scale in the future under sustainable conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing the Sustainable Application of Nanostructured Materials in Solar Cells)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Understanding Lignin Dissolution with Urea and the Formation of a Lignin Nano-Aggregate: A Multiscale Approach
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Jinxin Lin, Liheng Chen, Yanlin Qin and Xueqing Qiu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 593; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070593 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study employs a combined computational and experimental approach to elucidate the mechanisms governing the interaction between lignin and urea, impacting lignin dissolution and subsequent aggregation behavior. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations reveal how the urea concentration and temperature influence lignin conformation and interactions.
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This study employs a combined computational and experimental approach to elucidate the mechanisms governing the interaction between lignin and urea, impacting lignin dissolution and subsequent aggregation behavior. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations reveal how the urea concentration and temperature influence lignin conformation and interactions. Higher urea concentrations and temperatures promote lignin dispersion by disrupting intramolecular interactions and enhancing solvation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations quantitatively assess the interaction energy between lignin and urea, supporting the findings from MD simulations. Anti-solvent precipitation demonstrates that increasing the urea concentration hinders the self-assembly of lignin nanoclusters. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing lignin biorefinery processes by tailoring the urea concentration and temperature for efficient extraction and dispersion. Understanding the influence of urea on lignin behavior opens up avenues for designing novel lignin-based materials with tailored properties. This study highlights the potential for the synergetic application of MD simulations and DFT calculations to unravel complex material interactions at the atomic level.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass-Derived Nanocomposites)
Open AccessArticle
Influence of an Overshoot Layer on the Morphological, Structural, Strain, and Transport Properties of InAs Quantum Wells
by
Omer Arif, Laura Canal, Elena Ferrari, Claudio Ferrari, Laura Lazzarini, Lucia Nasi, Alessandro Paghi, Stefan Heun and Lucia Sorba
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 592; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070592 - 27 Mar 2024
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InAs quantum wells (QWs) are promising material systems due to their small effective mass, narrow bandgap, strong spin–orbit coupling, large g-factor, and transparent interface to superconductors. Therefore, they are promising candidates for the implementation of topological superconducting states. Despite this potential, the growth
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InAs quantum wells (QWs) are promising material systems due to their small effective mass, narrow bandgap, strong spin–orbit coupling, large g-factor, and transparent interface to superconductors. Therefore, they are promising candidates for the implementation of topological superconducting states. Despite this potential, the growth of InAs QWs with high crystal quality and well-controlled morphology remains challenging. Adding an overshoot layer at the end of the metamorphic buffer layer, i.e., a layer with a slightly larger lattice constant than the active region of the device, helps to overcome the residual strain and provides optimally relaxed lattice parameters for the QW. In this work, we systematically investigated the influence of overshoot layer thickness on the morphological, structural, strain, and transport properties of undoped InAs QWs on GaAs(100) substrates. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the metamorphic buffer layer, which includes the overshoot layer, provides a misfit dislocation-free InAs QW active region. Moreover, the residual strain in the active region is compressive in the sample with a 200 nm-thick overshoot layer but tensile in samples with an overshoot layer thicker than 200 nm, and it saturates to a constant value for overshoot layer thicknesses above 350 nm. We found that electron mobility does not depend on the crystallographic directions. A maximum electron mobility of 6.07 × 105 cm2/Vs at 2.6 K with a carrier concentration of 2.31 × 1011 cm−2 in the sample with a 400 nm-thick overshoot layer has been obtained.
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Open AccessReview
Advancements in Transparent Conductive Oxides for Photoelectrochemical Applications
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He Wen, Bo Weng, Bing Wang, Wenbo Xiao, Xiao Liu, Yiming Wang, Menglong Zhang and Haowei Huang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 591; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070591 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) are an important technology for converting solar energy, which has experienced rapid development in recent decades. Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are also gaining increasing attention due to their crucial role in PEC reactions. This review comprehensively delves into the significance
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Photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) are an important technology for converting solar energy, which has experienced rapid development in recent decades. Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are also gaining increasing attention due to their crucial role in PEC reactions. This review comprehensively delves into the significance of TCO materials in PEC devices. Starting from an in-depth analysis of various TCO materials, this review discusses the properties, fabrication techniques, and challenges associated with these TCO materials. Next, we highlight several cost-effective, simple, and environmentally friendly methods, such as element doping, plasma treatment, hot isostatic pressing, and carbon nanotube modification, to enhance the transparency and conductivity of TCO materials. Despite significant progress in the development of TCO materials for PEC applications, we at last point out that the future research should focus on enhancing transparency and conductivity, formulating advanced theories to understand structure–property relationships, and integrating multiple modification strategies to further improve the performance of TCO materials in PEC devices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Photocatalysts Based on Nanocomposites)
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Open AccessArticle
Utilizing Constant Energy Difference between sp-Peak and C 1s Core Level in Photoelectron Spectra for Unambiguous Identification and Quantification of Diamond Phase in Nanodiamonds
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Oleksandr Romanyuk, Štěpán Stehlík, Josef Zemek, Kateřina Aubrechtová Dragounová and Alexander Kromka
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 590; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070590 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
The modification of nanodiamond (ND) surfaces has significant applications in sensing devices, drug delivery, bioimaging, and tissue engineering. Precise control of the diamond phase composition and bond configurations during ND processing and surface finalization is crucial. In this study, we conducted a comparative
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The modification of nanodiamond (ND) surfaces has significant applications in sensing devices, drug delivery, bioimaging, and tissue engineering. Precise control of the diamond phase composition and bond configurations during ND processing and surface finalization is crucial. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the graphitization process in various types of hydrogenated NDs, considering differences in ND size and quality. We prepared three types of hydrogenated NDs: high-pressure high-temperature NDs (HPHT ND-H; 0–30 nm), conventional detonation nanodiamonds (DND-H; ~5 nm), and size- and nitrogen-reduced hydrogenated nanodiamonds (snr-DND-H; 2–3 nm). The samples underwent annealing in an ultra-high vacuum and sputtering by Ar cluster ion beam (ArCIB). Samples were investigated by in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), in situ ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), and Raman spectroscopy (RS). Our investigation revealed that the graphitization temperature of NDs ranges from 600 °C to 700 °C and depends on the size and crystallinity of the NDs. Smaller DND particles with a high density of defects exhibit a lower graphitization temperature. We revealed a constant energy difference of 271.3 eV between the sp-peak in the valence band spectra (at around 13.7 eV) and the sp3 component in the C 1s core level spectra (at 285.0 eV). The identification of this energy difference helps in calibrating charge shifts and serves the unambiguous identification of the sp3 bond contribution in the C 1s spectra obtained from ND samples. Results were validated through reference measurements on hydrogenated single crystal C(111)-H and highly-ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation, Characterization, Properties, Simulation, and Applications of Nanostructured Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Dispersion and Dosimetric Challenges of Hydrophobic Carbon-Based Nanoparticles in In Vitro Cellular Studies
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Denisa Lizonova, Una Trivanovic, Philip Demokritou and Georgios A. Kelesidis
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 589; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070589 - 27 Mar 2024
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Methodologies across the dispersion preparation, characterization, and cellular dosimetry of hydrophilic nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed and used extensively in the field of nanotoxicology. However, hydrophobic NPs pose a challenge for dispersion in aqueous culture media using conventional methods that include sonication followed
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Methodologies across the dispersion preparation, characterization, and cellular dosimetry of hydrophilic nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed and used extensively in the field of nanotoxicology. However, hydrophobic NPs pose a challenge for dispersion in aqueous culture media using conventional methods that include sonication followed by mixing in the culture medium of interest and cellular dosimetry. In this study, a robust methodology for the preparation of stable dispersions of hydrophobic NPs for cellular studies is developed by introducing continuous energy over time via stirring in the culture medium followed by dispersion characterization and cellular dosimetry. The stirring energy and the presence of proteins in the culture medium result in the formation of a protein corona around the NPs, stabilizing their dispersion, which can be used for in vitro cellular studies. The identification of the optimal stirring time is crucial for achieving dispersion and stability. This is assessed through a comprehensive stability testing protocol employing dynamic light scattering to evaluate the particle size distribution stability and polydispersity. Additionally, the effective density of the NPs is obtained for the stable NP dispersions using the volumetric centrifugation method, while cellular dosimetry calculations are done using available cellular computational modeling, mirroring approaches used for hydrophilic NPs. The robustness of the proposed dispersion approach is showcased using a highly hydrophobic NP model (black carbon NPs) and two culture media, RPMI medium and SABM, that are widely used in cellular studies. The proposed approach for the dispersion of hydrophobic NPs results in stable dispersions in both culture media used here. The NP effective density of 1.03–1.07 g/cm3 measured here for black carbon NPs is close to the culture media density, resulting in slow deposition on the cells over time. So, the present methodology for dispersion and dosimetry of hydrophobic NPs is essential for the design of dose–response studies and overcoming the challenges imposed by slow particle deposition.
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Open AccessArticle
Chemically Modified Clay Adsorbents Used in the Retention of Protein and Polyphenolic Compounds from Sauvignon Blanc White Wine
by
Andreea Hortolomeu, Diana Carmen Mirila, Ana-Maria Roșu, Florin Marian Nedeff, Iuri Scutaru, Dorel Ureche, Rodica Sturza, Adriana-Luminița Fînar and Ileana Denisa Nistor
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 588; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070588 - 27 Mar 2024
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During the manufacturing process of white wine, various physicochemical reactions can occur and can affect the quality of the finished product. For this reason, it is necessary to apply different treatments to minimize distinct factors such as protein instability and pinking phenomenon, which
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During the manufacturing process of white wine, various physicochemical reactions can occur and can affect the quality of the finished product. For this reason, it is necessary to apply different treatments to minimize distinct factors such as protein instability and pinking phenomenon, which can affect the organoleptic properties of wines and their structure. In this work, a new method for the preparation of a sorbent-type material is presented through the fractional purification of native bentonite in three fractions (Na-BtF1, Na-BtF2, and Na-BtF3). Furthermore, the influence of the prepared sorbents on pH, conductivity, and amino nitrogen level was analyzed. The absorbents prepared and tested in wine solutions were characterized using the following physico-chemical methods: Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda (BET-BJH) method, X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique, and transform-coupled infrared spectroscopy Fourier with attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR). Following the analyses carried out on the retention of protein content and polyphenolic compounds, it was found that materials based on natural clay have suitable adsorption properties.
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Open AccessArticle
Reduced Graphene Oxide Modified Nitrogen-Doped Chitosan Carbon Fiber with Excellent Electromagnetic Wave Absorbing Performance
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Mengyao Guo, Ming Lin, Jingwei Xu, Yongjiao Pan, Chen Ma and Guohua Chen
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 587; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070587 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Lightweight and low-cost one-dimensional carbon materials, especially biomass carbon fibers with multiple porous structures, have received wide attention in the field of electromagnetic wave absorption. In this paper, graphene-coated N-doped porous carbon nanofibers (PCNF) with excellent wave absorption properties were successfully synthesized via
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Lightweight and low-cost one-dimensional carbon materials, especially biomass carbon fibers with multiple porous structures, have received wide attention in the field of electromagnetic wave absorption. In this paper, graphene-coated N-doped porous carbon nanofibers (PCNF) with excellent wave absorption properties were successfully synthesized via electrostatic spinning, electrostatic self-assembly, and high-temperature carbonization. The obtained results showed that the minimum reflection loss of the absorbing carbon fiber obtained under the carbonization condition of 800 °C is −51.047 dB, and the absorption bandwidth of reflection loss below −20 dB is 10.16 GHz. This work shows that carbonization temperature and filler content have a certain effect on the wave-absorbing properties of fiber, graphene with nanofiber, and the design and preparation of high-performance absorbing materials by combining the characteristics of graphene and nanofibers and multi-component coupling to provide new ideas for the research of absorbing materials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and Graphene-Based Polymer Composites: From Preparation to Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
First-Principles Study on Evolution of Magnetic Domain in Two-Dimensional BaTiO3 Ultrathin Film Doped with Co under Electric Field
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Haigen Gao, Yu Tang, Qilong Liao, Xiangyu Zhao and Bing Wang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 586; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070586 - 27 Mar 2024
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The magnetization mechanism of Co-doped BaTiO3 ultrathin films is a subject of debate, which results in difficulties with the design of new multiferroics based on BaTiO3 matrixes. With the aid of a first-principles approach, it was observed that when the interstitial
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The magnetization mechanism of Co-doped BaTiO3 ultrathin films is a subject of debate, which results in difficulties with the design of new multiferroics based on BaTiO3 matrixes. With the aid of a first-principles approach, it was observed that when the interstitial site and Ti vacancy were filled with Co, the configuration behaved in a nonmagnetic manner, indicating the significance of the Co content. Moreover, in the case of Co substituting two neighboring Ti atoms, when a direct current field was applied in the [100] direction, the magnetic domains excluding those in the [100], [010], and [001] directions were directed away. Further, the magnetoelectric constant was evaluated at ~449.3 mV/cmOe, showing strong magnetoelectric coupling at room temperature. Clearly, our study indicates that strict control of Ba, Ti, O, and Co stoichiometry can induce an electric and magnetic field conversion in two-dimensional BaTiO3 and may provide a new candidate for single-phase multiferroics for application in next-generation multifunctional devices.
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Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Rani et al. Nematicidal Potential of Green Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Aqueous Root Extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra. Nanomaterials 2022, 12, 2966
by
Kanika Rani, Nisha Devi, Prakash Banakar, Pushpa Kharb and Prashant Kaushik
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 585; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070585 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
In the publication [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
Open AccessReview
Oxide Ionic Neuro-Transistors for Bio-inspired Computing
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Yongli He, Yixin Zhu and Qing Wan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 584; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070584 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Current computing systems rely on Boolean logic and von Neumann architecture, where computing cells are based on high-speed electron-conducting complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) transistors. In contrast, ions play an essential role in biological neural computing. Compared with CMOS units, the synapse/neuron computing speed is
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Current computing systems rely on Boolean logic and von Neumann architecture, where computing cells are based on high-speed electron-conducting complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) transistors. In contrast, ions play an essential role in biological neural computing. Compared with CMOS units, the synapse/neuron computing speed is much lower, but the human brain performs much better in many tasks such as pattern recognition and decision-making. Recently, ionic dynamics in oxide electrolyte-gated transistors have attracted increasing attention in the field of neuromorphic computing, which is more similar to the computing modality in the biological brain. In this review article, we start with the introduction of some ionic processes in biological brain computing. Then, electrolyte-gated ionic transistors, especially oxide ionic transistors, are briefly introduced. Later, we review the state-of-the-art progress in oxide electrolyte-gated transistors for ionic neuromorphic computing including dynamic synaptic plasticity emulation, spatiotemporal information processing, and artificial sensory neuron function implementation. Finally, we will address the current challenges and offer recommendations along with potential research directions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuromorphic Devices: Materials, Structures and Bionic Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Neuromorphic Computing of Optoelectronic Artificial BFCO/AZO Heterostructure Memristors Synapses
by
Zhao-Yuan Fan, Zhenhua Tang, Jun-Lin Fang, Yan-Ping Jiang, Qiu-Xiang Liu, Xin-Gui Tang, Yi-Chun Zhou and Ju Gao
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 583; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070583 - 27 Mar 2024
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Compared with purely electrical neuromorphic devices, those stimulated by optical signals have gained increasing attention due to their realistic sensory simulation. In this work, an optoelectronic neuromorphic device based on a photoelectric memristor with a Bi2FeCrO6/Al-doped ZnO (BFCO/AZO) heterostructure
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Compared with purely electrical neuromorphic devices, those stimulated by optical signals have gained increasing attention due to their realistic sensory simulation. In this work, an optoelectronic neuromorphic device based on a photoelectric memristor with a Bi2FeCrO6/Al-doped ZnO (BFCO/AZO) heterostructure is fabricated that can respond to both electrical and optical signals and successfully simulate a variety of synaptic behaviors, such as STP, LTP, and PPF. In addition, the photomemory mechanism was identified by analyzing the energy band structures of AZO and BFCO. A convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture for pattern classification at the Mixed National Institute of Standards and Technology (MNIST) was used and improved the recognition accuracy of the MNIST and Fashion-MNIST datasets to 95.21% and 74.19%, respectively, by implementing an improved stochastic adaptive algorithm. These results provide a feasible approach for future implementation of optoelectronic synapses.
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Open AccessReview
Recent Advances of VO2 in Sensors and Actuators
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Mahmoud Darwish, Yana Zhabura and László Pohl
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 582; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070582 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Vanadium dioxide (VO2) stands out for its versatility in numerous applications, thanks to its unique reversible insulator-to-metal phase transition. This transition can be initiated by various stimuli, leading to significant alterations in the material’s characteristics, including its resistivity and optical properties.
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Vanadium dioxide (VO2) stands out for its versatility in numerous applications, thanks to its unique reversible insulator-to-metal phase transition. This transition can be initiated by various stimuli, leading to significant alterations in the material’s characteristics, including its resistivity and optical properties. As the interest in the material is growing year by year, the purpose of this review is to explore the trends and current state of progress on some of the applications proposed for VO2 in the field of sensors and actuators using literature review methods. Some key applications identified are resistive sensors such as strain, temperature, light, gas concentration, and thermal fluid flow sensors for microfluidics and mechanical microactuators. Several critical challenges have been recognized in the field, including the expanded investigation of VO2-based applications across multiple domains, exploring various methods to enhance device performance such as modifying the phase transition temperature, advancing the fabrication techniques for VO2 structures, and developing innovative modelling approaches. Current research in the field shows a variety of different sensors, actuators, and material combinations, leading to different sensor and actuator performance input ranges and output sensitivities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Circuit Research for Nanoscale Field-Effect Transistors)
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Open AccessArticle
High-Efficiency Metamaterial-Engineered Grating Couplers for Silicon Nitride Photonics
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William Fraser, Radovan Korček, Ivan Glesk, Jan Litvik, Jens H. Schmid, Pavel Cheben, Winnie N. Ye and Daniel Benedikovic
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 581; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070581 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Silicon nitride (Si3N4) is an ideal candidate for the development of low-loss photonic integrated circuits. However, efficient light coupling between standard optical fibers and Si3N4 chips remains a significant challenge. For vertical grating couplers, the lower
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Silicon nitride (Si3N4) is an ideal candidate for the development of low-loss photonic integrated circuits. However, efficient light coupling between standard optical fibers and Si3N4 chips remains a significant challenge. For vertical grating couplers, the lower index contrast yields a weak grating strength, which translates to long diffractive structures, limiting the coupling performance. In response to the rise of hybrid photonic platforms, the adoption of multi-layer grating arrangements has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance the performance of Si3N4 couplers. In this work, we present the design of high-efficiency surface grating couplers for the Si3N4 platform with an amorphous silicon (α-Si) overlay. The surface grating, fully formed in an α-Si waveguide layer, utilizes subwavelength grating (SWG)-engineered metamaterials, enabling simple realization through single-step patterning. This not only provides an extra degree of freedom for controlling the fiber–chip coupling but also facilitates portability to existing foundry fabrication processes. Using rigorous three-dimensional (3D) finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations, a metamaterial-engineered grating coupler is designed with a coupling efficiency of −1.7 dB at an operating wavelength of 1.31 µm, with a 1 dB bandwidth of 31 nm. Our proposed design presents a novel approach to developing high-efficiency fiber–chip interfaces for the silicon nitride integration platform for a wide range of applications, including datacom and quantum photonics.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Photonics: Subwavelength Optical Elements, Metasurfaces, Plasmonics and Quantum Photonics)
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Open AccessArticle
A Metastructure Based on Amorphous Carbon for High Efficiency and Selective Solar Absorption
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Junli Su, Gang Chen, Chong Ma, Qiuyu Zhang, Xingyu Li, Yujia Geng, Bojie Jia, Haihan Luo and Dingquan Liu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 580; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070580 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
Efficient solar thermal conversion is crucial for renewable clean energy technologies such as solar thermal power generation, solar thermophotovoltaic and seawater desalination. To maximize solar energy conversion efficiency, a solar selective absorber with tailored absorption properties designed for solar applications is indispensable. In
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Efficient solar thermal conversion is crucial for renewable clean energy technologies such as solar thermal power generation, solar thermophotovoltaic and seawater desalination. To maximize solar energy conversion efficiency, a solar selective absorber with tailored absorption properties designed for solar applications is indispensable. In this study, we propose a broadband selective absorber based on amorphous carbon (a-C) metamaterials that achieves high absorption in the ultraviolet (UV), visible (Vis) and near-infrared (NIR) spectral ranges. Additionally, through metal doping, the optical properties of carbon matrix materials can be modulated. We introduce Ti@a-C thin film into the nanostructure to enhance light absorption across most of the solar spectrum, particularly in the NIR wavelength band, which is essential for improving energy utilization. The impressive solar absorptivity and photothermal conversion efficiency reach 97.8% and 95.6%, respectively. Notably, these superior performances are well-maintained even at large incident angles with different polarized states. These findings open new avenues for the application of a-C matrix materials, especially in fields related to solar energy harvesting.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theory and Modeling of Nanoelectronics or Plasmonics Devices)
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Open AccessArticle
CdS-Based Hydrothermal Photocatalysts for Complete Reductive Dehalogenation of a Chlorinated Propionic Acid in Water by Visible Light
by
Martina Milani, Michele Mazzanti, Claudia Stevanin, Tatiana Chenet, Giuliana Magnacca, Luisa Pasti and Alessandra Molinari
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 579; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070579 (registering DOI) - 26 Mar 2024
Abstract
Cadmium sulfide (CdS)-based photocatalysts are prepared following a hydrothermal procedure (with CdCl2 and thiourea as precursors). The HydroThermal material annealed (CdS-HTa) is crystalline with a band gap of 2.31 eV. Photoelectrochemical investigation indicates a very reducing photo-potential of −0.9 V, which is
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Cadmium sulfide (CdS)-based photocatalysts are prepared following a hydrothermal procedure (with CdCl2 and thiourea as precursors). The HydroThermal material annealed (CdS-HTa) is crystalline with a band gap of 2.31 eV. Photoelectrochemical investigation indicates a very reducing photo-potential of −0.9 V, which is very similar to that of commercial CdS. CdS-HTa, albeit having similar reducing properties, is more active than commercial CdS in the reductive dehalogenation of 2,2-dichloropropionic acid (dalapon) to propionic acid. Spectroscopic, electro-, and photoelectrochemical investigation show that photocatalytic properties of CdS are correlated to its electronic structure. The reductive dehalogenation of dalapon has a double significance: on one hand, it represents a demanding reductive process for a photocatalyst, and on the other hand, it has a peculiar interest in water treatment because dalapon can be considered a representative molecule of persistent organic pollutants and is one of the most important disinfection by products, whose removal from the water is the final obstacle to its complete reuse. HPLC-MS investigation points out that complete disappearance of dalapon passes through 2-monochloropropionic acid and leads to propionic acid as the final product. CdS-HTa requires very mild working conditions (room temperature, atmospheric pressure, natural pH), and it is stable and recyclable without significant loss of activity.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Functional Materials for Photocatalysis)
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Open AccessEditorial
ICP-MS-Based Characterization and Quantification of Nano- and Microstructures
by
Antonio R. Montoro Bustos
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 578; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070578 - 26 Mar 2024
Abstract
Since its commercial introduction in the 1980s, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has evolved to become arguably the most versatile and powerful technique for the multi-elemental and multi-isotopic analysis of metals, metalloids, and selected non-metals at ultratrace levels [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue ICP-MS-Based Characterization and Quantification of Nano- and Microstructures)
Open AccessArticle
Nanohydroxyapatite/Peptide Composite Coatings on Pure Titanium Surfaces with Nanonetwork Structures Using Oyster Shells
by
Kuan-Hsiang Hsieh, Hsueh-Chuan Hsu, Yu-Lin Kao, Shih-Ching Wu, Tzu-Yen Yang and Wen-Fu Ho
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 577; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano14070577 - 26 Mar 2024
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Titanium and its alloys are extensively applied in artificial tooth roots because of their excellent corrosion resistance, high specific strength, and low elastic modulus. However, because of their biological inertness, their surface needs to be modified to improve the osteointegration of titanium implants.
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Titanium and its alloys are extensively applied in artificial tooth roots because of their excellent corrosion resistance, high specific strength, and low elastic modulus. However, because of their biological inertness, their surface needs to be modified to improve the osteointegration of titanium implants. The preparation of biologically active calcium–phosphorus coatings on the surface of an implant is one effective method for enhancing the likelihood of bone integration. In this study, osteoinductive peptides were extracted from oyster shells by using acetic acid. Two peptide-containing hydroxyapatite (HA) composite coatings were then prepared: one coating was prepared by hydrothermally synthesizing an HA coating in the presence of peptides (HA/P/M), and the other coating was prepared by hydrothermally synthesizing HA and then immersing the hydrothermally synthesized HA in a peptide solution (HA/P/S). Characterization results indicated that the composite HA coatings containing oyster shell-based peptides were successfully prepared on the alkali-treated pure titanium surfaces. The HA/P/M and HA/P/S composite coatings were found to exhibit excellent hydrophilicity. Protein adsorption tests confirmed that the HA/P/M and HA/P/S coatings had an approximately 2.3 times higher concentration of adsorbed proteins than the pure HA coating.
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27 March 2024
Prof. Dennis K. P. Ng Appointed Associate Section Editor-in-Chief of Section “Biology and Medicine” in Nanomaterials
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