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In Situ Ruthenium Catalyst Modification for the Conversion of Furfural to 1,2-Pentanediol
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Polarization-Insensitive Beam Splitter with Variable Split Angles and Ratios Based on Phase Gradient Metasurfaces
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Development and Functionalization of Visible-Light-Driven Water-Splitting Photocatalysts
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Sea Urchin-like [email protected]2@rGO as Anodes for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
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Light-Driven Charge Transport and Optical Sensing in Molecular Junctions
Journal Description
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published semimonthly online by MDPI.
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- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Physics, Applied) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Chemical Engineering)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision provided to authors approximately 15.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2021).
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- Companion journal: Nanomanufacturing
Impact Factor:
5.076 (2020)
;
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.346 (2020)
Latest Articles
Plasmonic-Induced Transparencies in an Integrated Metaphotonic System
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1701; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101701 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
In this contribution, we numerically demonstrate the generation of plasmonic transparency windows in the transmission spectrum of an integrated metaphotonic device. The hybrid photonic–plasmonic structure consists of two rectangular-shaped gold nanoparticles fully embedded in the core of a multimode dielectric optical waveguide, with
[...] Read more.
In this contribution, we numerically demonstrate the generation of plasmonic transparency windows in the transmission spectrum of an integrated metaphotonic device. The hybrid photonic–plasmonic structure consists of two rectangular-shaped gold nanoparticles fully embedded in the core of a multimode dielectric optical waveguide, with their major axis aligned to the electric field lines of transverse electric guided modes. We show that these transparencies arise from different phenomena depending on the symmetry of the guided modes. For the TE mode, the quadrupolar and dipolar plasmonic resonances of the nanoparticles are weakly coupled, and the transparency window is due to the plasmonic analogue of electromagnetically induced transparency. For the TE mode, the quadrupolar and dipolar resonances of the nanoparticles are strongly coupled, and the transparency is originated from the classical analogue of the Autler–Townes effect. This analysis contributes to the understanding of plasmonic transparency windows, opening new perspectives in the design of on-chip devices for optical communications, sensing, and signal filtering applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanophotonics and Integrated Optics Devices)
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Mass and Heat Transport Assessment and Nanomaterial Liquid Flowing on a Rotating Cone: A Numerical Computing Approach
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1700; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101700 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
In the present study, we explore the time-dependent convectional flow of a rheological nanofluid over a turning cone with the consolidated impacts of warmth and mass exchange. It has been shown that if the angular velocity at the free stream and the cone’s
[...] Read more.
In the present study, we explore the time-dependent convectional flow of a rheological nanofluid over a turning cone with the consolidated impacts of warmth and mass exchange. It has been shown that if the angular velocity at the free stream and the cone’s angular velocity differ inversely as a linear time function, a self-similar solution can be obtained. By applying sufficient approximation to the boundary layer, the managed conditions of movement, temperature, and nanoparticles are improved; afterward, the framework is changed to a non-dimensional framework utilizing proper comparability changes. A numerical solution for the obtained system of governing equations is achieved. The effect of different parameters on the velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles are discussed. Tangential velocity is observed to decrease with an increase in the Deborah number, whereas tangential velocity increases with increasing values of the angular velocity ratio, relaxation to the retardation time ratio, and buoyancy parameter. Expansion in the Prandtl number is noted to decrease the boundary layer temperature and thickness. The temperature is seen to decrease with an expansion in the parameters of lightness, thermophoresis parameter, and Brownian movement. It is discovered that the Nusselt number expands by expanding the lightness parameter and Prandtl number, whereas it increases by decreasing the Deborah number. We also noticed that the Sherwood number falls incrementally in Deborah and Prandtl numbers, but it upsurges with an increase in the buoyancy parameter.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theory and Computational Model of Nanofluids)
Open AccessCommunication
Fast Filling of Microvia by Pre-Settling Particles and Following Cu Electroplating
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1699; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101699 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Microvia interconnectors are a critical element of 3D packaging technology, as they provide the shortest interconnection path between stacked chips. However, low efficiency of microvia filling is a long-standing problem. This study proposed a two-step method to enhance the electroplating filling efficiency by
[...] Read more.
Microvia interconnectors are a critical element of 3D packaging technology, as they provide the shortest interconnection path between stacked chips. However, low efficiency of microvia filling is a long-standing problem. This study proposed a two-step method to enhance the electroplating filling efficiency by pre-setting metal particles in microvias and later electroplating the Cu to fill the gaps among the pre-settled particles. Since these particles occupy a certain volume in the microvia, less electroplating Cu is needed for microvia filling, leading to a shorter electroplating period.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Materials and Surface Treatment Processes Used for Engineering Applications)
Open AccessArticle
Modeling the Radial Growth of Self-Catalyzed III-V Nanowires
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1698; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101698 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
A new model for the radial growth of self-catalyzed III-V nanowires on different substrates is presented, which describes the nanowire morphological evolution without any free parameters. The model takes into account the re-emission of group III atoms from a mask surface and the
[...] Read more.
A new model for the radial growth of self-catalyzed III-V nanowires on different substrates is presented, which describes the nanowire morphological evolution without any free parameters. The model takes into account the re-emission of group III atoms from a mask surface and the shadowing effect in directional deposition techniques such as molecular beam epitaxy. It is shown that radial growth is faster for larger pitches of regular nanowire arrays or lower surface density, and can be suppressed by increasing the V/III flux ratio or decreasing re-emission. The model describes quite well the data on the morphological evolution of Ga-catalyzed GaP and GaAs nanowires on different substrates, where the nanowire length increases linearly and the radius enlarges sub-linearly with time. The obtained analytical expressions and numerical data should be useful for morphological control over different III-V nanowires in a wide range of growth conditions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue One-Dimensional Nanostructures: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications)
Open AccessArticle
Room Temperature Engineering Crystal Facet of Cu2O for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1697; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101697 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) has received enormous interest for photocatalysis owing to its narrow band gap of 2.17 eV, which is beneficial for visible-light absorption. In this work, we succeeded in synthesizing Cu2O nanocrystals with two morphologies, cube and sphere,
[...] Read more.
Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) has received enormous interest for photocatalysis owing to its narrow band gap of 2.17 eV, which is beneficial for visible-light absorption. In this work, we succeeded in synthesizing Cu2O nanocrystals with two morphologies, cube and sphere, at room temperature via a simple wet-chemistry strategy. The morphologies of Cu2O change from cube to sphere when adding PVP from 0 g to 4 g and the mainly exposed crystal faces of cubic and spherical Cu2O are (100) and (111), respectively. The photocatalytic properties of the as-prepared Cu2O were evaluated by the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO). Cubic Cu2O(100) showed excellent photocatalytic activity. After the optical and photoelectric properties were investigated, we found that cubic Cu2O(100) has better photoelectric separation efficiency than spherical Cu2O(111). Finally, the possible mechanism was proposed for cubic Cu2O(100) degrading MO under visible light.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hybrid Nanomaterials Applied to Photocatalysis)
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Selective Chemical Vapor Deposition Growth of WS2/MoS2 Vertical and Lateral Heterostructures on Gold Foils
by
, , , , , , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1696; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101696 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
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Vertical and lateral heterostructures consisting of atomically layered two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit intriguing properties, such as efficient charge/energy transfer, high photoresponsivity, and enhanced photocatalytic activities. However, the controlled fabrication of vertical or lateral heterojunctions on metal substrates remains challenging. Herein, we report a
[...] Read more.
Vertical and lateral heterostructures consisting of atomically layered two-dimensional (2D) materials exhibit intriguing properties, such as efficient charge/energy transfer, high photoresponsivity, and enhanced photocatalytic activities. However, the controlled fabrication of vertical or lateral heterojunctions on metal substrates remains challenging. Herein, we report a facile and controllable method for selective growth of WS2/MoS2 vertical or lateral heterojunctions on polycrystalline gold (Au) foil by tuning the gas flow rate of hydrogen (H2). We find that lateral growth is favored without H2, whereas vertical growth mode can be switched on by introducing 8–10 sccm H2. In addition, the areal coverage of the WS2/MoS2 vertical heterostructures is tunable in the range of 12–25%. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) results demonstrate the quality and absence of cross-contamination of the as-grown heterostructures. Furthermore, we investigate the effects of the H2 flow rate on the morphology of the heterostructures. These pave the way to develop unprecedented 2D heterostructures towards applications in (opto)electronic devices.
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Open AccessArticle
Constructing Co3O4/La2Ti2O7 p-n Heterojunction for the Enhancement of Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1695; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101695 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Layered perovskite-type semiconductor La2Ti2O7 has attracted lots of attention in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, due to the suitable energy band position for water splitting, high specific surface area, and excellent physicochemical stability. However, the narrow light absorption range and
[...] Read more.
Layered perovskite-type semiconductor La2Ti2O7 has attracted lots of attention in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, due to the suitable energy band position for water splitting, high specific surface area, and excellent physicochemical stability. However, the narrow light absorption range and the low separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers limit its photocatalytic activity. Herein, plate-like La2Ti2O7 with uniform crystal morphology was synthesized in molten NaCl salt. A p-n heterojunction was then constructed through the in situ hydrothermal growth of p-type Co3O4 nanoparticles on the surface of n-type plate-like La2Ti2O7. The effects of Co3O4 loading on photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance were investigated in detail. The results demonstrate that composite Co3O4/La2Ti2O7 possesses much better photocatalytic activity than the pure component. The composite photocatalyst with 1 wt% Co3O4 exhibits the highest hydrogen evolution rate of 79.73 μmol·g−1·h−1 and a good cycling stability. The photoelectrochemistry characterizations illustrate that the improvement of photocatalytic activity is mainly attributed to both the enhanced light absorption from the Co3O4 ornament and the rapid separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs driven by the built-in electric field close to the p-n heterojunction. The results may provide further insights into the design of high-efficiency La2Ti2O7-based heterojunctions for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Semiconductor-Based Nanomaterials for Photocatalytic Applications)
Open AccessArticle
High Color Purity Plasmonic Color Filter by One-Dimensional Photonic Crystals
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1694; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101694 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Structural colors have been reported instead of conventional dye- or pigment-based color filters. Color selectivity can degrade as structure-based optical resonances are accompanied by several resonance modes. In this work, we suggest a simple and effective design of the plasmonic color filter (PCF)
[...] Read more.
Structural colors have been reported instead of conventional dye- or pigment-based color filters. Color selectivity can degrade as structure-based optical resonances are accompanied by several resonance modes. In this work, we suggest a simple and effective design of the plasmonic color filter (PCF) that integrated the PCF with the one-dimensional (1D) photonic crystal (PhC). The introduced PhC creates an optical band gap and suppresses undesired peaks of the PCF caused by the high-order resonance mode. Finally, the suggested structure provides a high color purity. This study can be a guideline for technology that replaces conventional color filters.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanophotonic and Optical Nanomaterials)
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A Bi2Te3-Filled Nickel Foam Film with Exceptional Flexibility and Thermoelectric Performance
by
, , , , , , , , , , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1693; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101693 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
The past decades have witnessed surging demand for wearable electronics, for which thermoelectrics (TEs) are considered a promising self-charging technology, as they are capable of converting skin heat into electricity directly. Bi2Te3 is the most-used TE material at room temperature,
[...] Read more.
The past decades have witnessed surging demand for wearable electronics, for which thermoelectrics (TEs) are considered a promising self-charging technology, as they are capable of converting skin heat into electricity directly. Bi2Te3 is the most-used TE material at room temperature, due to a high zT of ~1. However, it is different to integrate Bi2Te3 for wearable TEs owing to its intrinsic rigidity. Bi2Te3 could be flexible when made thin enough, but this implies a small electrical and thermal load, thus severely restricting the power output. Herein, we developed a Bi2Te3/nickel foam (NiFoam) composite film through solvothermal deposition of Bi2Te3 nanoplates into porous NiFoam. Due to the mesh structure and ductility of Ni Foam, the film, with a thickness of 160 μm, exhibited a high figure of merit for flexibility, 0.016, connoting higher output. Moreover, the film also revealed a high tensile strength of 12.7 ± 0.04 MPa and a maximum elongation rate of 28.8%. In addition, due to the film’s high electrical conductivity and enhanced Seebeck coefficient, an outstanding power factor of 850 μW m−1 K−2 was achieved, which is among the highest ever reported. A module fabricated with five such n-type legs integrated electrically in series and thermally in parallel showed an output power of 22.8 nW at a temperature gap of 30 K. This work offered a cost-effective avenue for making highly flexible TE films for power supply of wearable electronics by intercalating TE nanoplates into porous and meshed-structure materials.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermoelectric Nanocomposites and Devices: Design, Fabrication and Applications)
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Fluorinated PEG-PEI Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles for siRNA Delivery and CXCR4 Knockdown
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1692; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101692 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is a promising therapeutic target. Previous studies have shown that intracellular delivery of siRNA to knockdown CXCR4 expression in cancer cells is an effective therapeutic strategy. To prepare efficient magnetic nucleic acid carriers, it is now necessary to
[...] Read more.
CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is a promising therapeutic target. Previous studies have shown that intracellular delivery of siRNA to knockdown CXCR4 expression in cancer cells is an effective therapeutic strategy. To prepare efficient magnetic nucleic acid carriers, it is now necessary to improve the endocytosis efficiency of PEGylated magnetic nanoparticles. In our work, Heptafluorobutyryl-polyethylene glycol-polyethyleneimine (FPP) was first prepared and then used to coat magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to obtain magnetic nanocarriers [email protected] The materials were characterized by 19 F-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The biosecurity of [email protected] was confirmed by cell viability and apoptosis experiments. Cellular uptake of [email protected] and siRNA transfection enhanced by external magnetic fields were detected by fluorescence microscopy, confocal laser microscopy, and flow cytometry. The results show that the cellular uptake efficiency of [email protected] was significantly improved, and transfection efficiency reached more than 90%. The knockdown of CXCR4 on the 4 T1 cell membrane was confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry. In conclusion, the fluorinated cationic polymer-coated magnetic nanoparticles [email protected] can be loaded with siRNA to reduce CXCR4 expression as well as be expected to be efficient universal siRNA carriers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials in Biomedical Application)
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Zinc-Containing Sol–Gel Glass Nanoparticles to Deliver Therapeutic Ions
by
, , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1691; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101691 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Zn-containing dense monodispersed bioactive glass nanoparticles (Zn-BAGNPs) have been developed to deliver therapeutic inorganic trace elements, including Si, Ca, Sr, and Zn, to the cells through the degradation process, as delivery carriers for stimulating bone regeneration because of their capacity to induce osteogenic
[...] Read more.
Zn-containing dense monodispersed bioactive glass nanoparticles (Zn-BAGNPs) have been developed to deliver therapeutic inorganic trace elements, including Si, Ca, Sr, and Zn, to the cells through the degradation process, as delivery carriers for stimulating bone regeneration because of their capacity to induce osteogenic differentiation. The sol–gel-derived dense silica nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) were first synthesized using the modified Stöber method, prior to incorporating therapeutic cations through the heat treatment process. The successfully synthesized monodispersed Zn-BAGNPs (diameter of 130 ± 20 nm) were homogeneous in size with spherical morphology. Ca, Sr and Zn were incorporated through the two-step post-functionalization process, with the nominal ZnO ratio between 0 and 2 (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0). Zn-BAGNPs have the capacity for continuous degradation and simultaneous ion release in SBF and PBS solutions due to their amorphous structure. Zn-BAGNPs have no in vitro cytotoxicity on the murine pre-osteoblast cell (MC3T3-E1) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), up to a concentration of 250 µg/mL. Zn-BAGNPs also stimulated osteogenic differentiation on PDLSCs treated with particles, after 2 and 3 weeks in culture. Zn-BAGNPs were not toxic to the cells and have the potential to stimulate osteogenic differentiation on PDLSCs. Therefore, Zn-BAGNPs are potential vehicles for therapeutic cation delivery for applications in bone and dental regenerations.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Dentistry)
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Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Nonuniformly Nitrogen-Doped Nb2O5 by Prolonging the Lifetime of Photogenerated Holes
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1690; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101690 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
The narrow band gap and significant separation of photogenerated carriers are essential aspects in practical photocatalytic applications. Nitrogen doping usually narrows the band gap of semiconductor oxides, and it enhances photocatalytic activity. Nitrogen-doped Nb2O5 was prepared by a multiple hydrothermal
[...] Read more.
The narrow band gap and significant separation of photogenerated carriers are essential aspects in practical photocatalytic applications. Nitrogen doping usually narrows the band gap of semiconductor oxides, and it enhances photocatalytic activity. Nitrogen-doped Nb2O5 was prepared by a multiple hydrothermal method. The non-metal element N inside the nanostructure, working as the trapping sites for the holes, which were effectively incorporated into the crystal lattice of Nb2O5 semiconductor oxide, remarkably shorten the band gap (3.1 eV) to enhance the visible light response, effectively reducing the photoinduced electron–hole pair recombination and prolonging carrier lifetime. The multilayer coating structure with a gradient concentration distribution and the type of nitrogen doped is favorable for the migration of photoexcited carriers in the bulk of catalysts. The unique multi-layer coating with the micro-concentration gradient of doped nitrogen provides a fast separation channel and jump steps for the separation of electron–hole pairs.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Nanomaterials and Catalysts for Clean Fuels and Sustainable Energy)
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Free-Standing, Interwoven Tubular Graphene Mesh-Supported Binary AuPt Nanocatalysts: An Innovative and High-Performance Anode Methanol Oxidation Catalyst
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1689; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101689 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2022
Abstract
Pt-based alloy or bimetallic anode catalysts have been developed to reduce the carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning effect and the usage of Pt in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), where the second metal plays a role as CO poisoning inhibitor on Pt. Furthermore, better
[...] Read more.
Pt-based alloy or bimetallic anode catalysts have been developed to reduce the carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning effect and the usage of Pt in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), where the second metal plays a role as CO poisoning inhibitor on Pt. Furthermore, better performance in DMFCs can be achieved by improving the catalytic dispersion and using high-performance supporting materials. In this work, we introduced a free-standing, macroscopic, interwoven tubular graphene (TG) mesh as a supporting material because of its high surface area, favorable chemical inertness, and excellent conductivity. Particularly, binary AuPt nanoparticles (NPs) can be easily immobilized on both outer and inner walls of the TG mesh with a highly dispersive distribution by a simple and efficient chemical reduction method. The TG mesh, whose outer and inner walls were decorated with optimized loading of binary AuPt NPs, exhibited a remarkably catalytic performance in DMFCs. Its methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) activity was 10.09 and 2.20 times higher than those of the TG electrodes with only outer wall immobilized with pure Pt NPs and binary AuPt NPs, respectively. Furthermore, the catalyst also displayed a great stability in methanol oxidation after 200 scanning cycles, implying the excellent tolerance toward the CO poisoning effect.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Novel Nanostructured Materials for Electrocatalysis–Trends and Future)
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Treatment of Wastewater, Phenols and Dyes Using Novel Magnetic Torus Microreactors and Laccase Immobilized on Magnetite Nanoparticles
by
, , , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1688; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101688 - 15 May 2022
Abstract
In this work, the design, manufacture, and testing of three different magnetic microreactors based on torus geometries (i.e., one-loop, two-horizontal-loop, and two-vertical-loop) is explored to increase the enzyme-based transformation of dyes by laccase bio-nanocomposites, improve the particle suspension, and promote the interaction of
[...] Read more.
In this work, the design, manufacture, and testing of three different magnetic microreactors based on torus geometries (i.e., one-loop, two-horizontal-loop, and two-vertical-loop) is explored to increase the enzyme-based transformation of dyes by laccase bio-nanocomposites, improve the particle suspension, and promote the interaction of reagents. The laccase enzyme was covalently immobilized on amino-terminated silanized magnetite nanoparticles (laccase-magnetite). The optimal configuration for the torus microreactor and the applied magnetic field was evaluated in silico with the aid of the CFD and particle tracing modules of Comsol Multiphysics®. Eriochrome Black T (EBt) dye was tested as a biotransformation model at three different concentrations, i.e., 5 mg/L, 10 mg/L, and 20 mg/L. Phenol oxidation/removal was evaluated on artificial wastewater and real wastewater. The optimal catalytic performance of the bionanocomposite was achieved in the range of pH 4 to 4.5. A parabolic movement on the particles along the microchannels was induced by the magnetic field, which led to breaking the stability of the laminar flow and improving the mixing processes. Based on the simulation and experiments conducted with the three geometries, the two-vertical-loop microreactor demonstrated a better performance mainly due to larger dead zones and a longer residence time. Additionally, the overall dye removal efficiencies for this microreactor and the laccase-magnetite bionanocomposite were 98.05%, 93.87%, and 92.74% for the three evaluated concentrations. The maximum phenol oxidation with the laccase-magnetite treatment at low concentration for the artificial wastewater was 79.89%, while its phenol removal efficiency for a large volume of real wastewater was 17.86%. Treatments with real wastewater were carried out with a larger volume, equivalent to 200 biotransformation (oxidation) operating cycles of those carried out with dyes or phenol. Taken together, our results indicate that the novel microreactors introduced here have the potential to process wastewaters rich in contaminant dyes in continuous mode with efficiencies that are attractive for a potential large-scale operation. In this regard, future work will focus on finding the requirements for scaling-up the processes and evaluating the involved environmental impact indexes, economic performance, and different device geometries and processing schemes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials and Advanced Processes for Application in Water Purification)
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Electron-Induced Decomposition of Different Silver(I) Complexes: Implications for the Design of Precursors for Focused Electron Beam Induced Deposition
by
, , , , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1687; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101687 - 15 May 2022
Abstract
Focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID) is a versatile tool to produce nanostructures through electron-induced decomposition of metal-containing precursor molecules. However, the metal content of the resulting materials is often low. Using different Ag(I) complexes, this study shows that the precursor performance depends
[...] Read more.
Focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID) is a versatile tool to produce nanostructures through electron-induced decomposition of metal-containing precursor molecules. However, the metal content of the resulting materials is often low. Using different Ag(I) complexes, this study shows that the precursor performance depends critically on the molecular structure. This includes Ag(I) 2,2-dimethylbutanoate, which yields high Ag contents in FEBID, as well as similar aliphatic Ag(I) carboxylates, aromatic Ag(I) benzoate, and the acetylide Ag(I) 3,3-dimethylbutynyl. The compounds were sublimated on inert surfaces and their electron-induced decomposition was monitored by electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) experiments in ultrahigh vacuum and by reflection−absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS). The results reveal that Ag(I) carboxylates with aliphatic side chains are particularly favourable for FEBID. Following electron impact ionization, they fragment by loss of volatile CO2. The remaining alkyl radical converts to a stable and equally volatile alkene. The lower decomposition efficiency of Ag(I) benzoate and Ag(I) 3,3-dimethylbutynyl is explained by calculated average local ionization energies (ALIE) which reveal that ionization from the unsaturated carbon units competes with ionization from the coordinate bond to Ag. This can stabilise the ionized complex with respect to fragmentation. This insight provides guidance with respect to the design of novel FEBID precursors.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Fabricated by Electron-Beam-Induced Deposition and Related Processes)
Open AccessArticle
A Morphological Study of Solvothermally Grown SnO2 Nanostructures for Application in Perovskite Solar Cells
by
, , , , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1686; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101686 - 15 May 2022
Abstract
Tin(IV) oxide (SnO2) nanostructures, which possess larger surface areas for transporting electron carriers, have been used as an electron transport layer (ETL) in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the reported power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of this type of PSCs show a
[...] Read more.
Tin(IV) oxide (SnO2) nanostructures, which possess larger surface areas for transporting electron carriers, have been used as an electron transport layer (ETL) in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the reported power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of this type of PSCs show a large variation. One of the possible reasons for this phenomenon is the low reproducibility of SnO2 nanostructures if they are prepared by different research groups using various growth methods. This work focuses on the morphological study of SnO2 nanostructures grown by a solvothermal method. The growth parameters including growth pressure, substrate orientation, DI water-to-ethanol ratios, types of seed layer, amount of acetic acid, and growth time have been systematically varied. The SnO2 nanomorphology exhibits a different degree of sensitivity and trends towards each growth factor. A surface treatment is also required for solvothermally grown SnO2 nanomaterials for improving photovoltaic performance of PSCs. The obtained results in this work provide the research community with an insight into the general trend of morphological changes in SnO2 nanostructures influenced by different solvothermal growth parameters. This information can guide the researchers to prepare more reproducible solvothermally grown SnO2 nanomaterials for future application in devices.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solution-Processed Metal Oxide Nanostructures for Carrier Transport)
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Special Issue: Semiconductor Heterostructures (with Quantum Wells, Quantum Dots and Superlattices)
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1685; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101685 - 15 May 2022
Abstract
Semiconductor heterostructures form the basis of modern electronics and optoelectronics, and the study of physical phenomena in them, along with the development of technological methods for their manufacture, is actively carried out all over the world to ensure progress in the output parameters
[...] Read more.
Semiconductor heterostructures form the basis of modern electronics and optoelectronics, and the study of physical phenomena in them, along with the development of technological methods for their manufacture, is actively carried out all over the world to ensure progress in the output parameters of devices [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Semiconductor Heterostructures (with Quantum Wells, Quantum Dots and Superlattices))
Open AccessArticle
Bioremediation of Textile Industrial Effluents Using Nutraceutical Industrial Spent: Laboratory-Scale Demonstration of Circular Economy
by
, , , , and
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1684; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101684 - 15 May 2022
Abstract
This research reports the first-ever study on abundantly available, environmentally friendly, low-cost and ready-for-use Nutraceutical Industrial Cumin Seed Spent (NICUS) as an innovative adsorbent for bioremediation of a bisazo Acid Red 119 (AR119) dye, a probable mutagen from textile industrial effluents (TIEs). The
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This research reports the first-ever study on abundantly available, environmentally friendly, low-cost and ready-for-use Nutraceutical Industrial Cumin Seed Spent (NICUS) as an innovative adsorbent for bioremediation of a bisazo Acid Red 119 (AR119) dye, a probable mutagen from textile industrial effluents (TIEs). The experiment at the laboratory scale is designed to suit the concepts of sustainability and valorisation under the domain of circular economy. The experimental qe value obtained was 96.00 mg g−1. The optimised conditions of parameters are as follows: pH of 2; adsorption time, 210 min; adsorbent dosage, 0.300 g L−1; particle size, 175 µM; initial dye concentration, 950 mg L−1; orbital shaking, 165 rpm and temperature, 50 °C, producing an impressive value of 748 mg of dye adsorbing on 1 g of dry NICUS. The adsorption capacity of NICUS obtained from the quadratic model developed for process optimisation gave values of 748 mg g−1. As a prelude to commercialisation, five variables that affect the adsorption process were experimentally studied. For the feasibility and efficiency of the process, a two-level fractional factorial experimental design (FFED) was applied to identify variables that influence the adsorption capacity of NICUS. The identified variables were applied to scale experiments by three orders. Nine isotherm models were used to analyse the adsorption equilibrium data. The Vieth–Sladek adsorption isotherm model was found to be the best fit. The pseudo-second-order reaction was the appropriate mechanism for the overall rate of the adsorption process. Mechanistic studies related to mass transfer phenomena were more likely to be dominant over the diffusion process. Techniques such as SEM, FTIR and CHN analysis were used to characterise NICUS. The dye-adsorbed NICUS obtained as “sludge” was used as a reinforcing material for the fabrication of composites using plastic waste. The physicomechanical and chemical properties of thermoplastic and thermoset composite using dye-adsorbed NICUS were evaluated and compared with NICUS composites. Prospects of integrating Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) into the circular economy of Nutraceutical Industrial Spent (NIS) are discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Nanocomposites for the Removal of Emerging Pollutants from Wastewater)
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Open AccessArticle
Fish Oil Nanoemulsion Supplementation Attenuates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis BALB/c Mice
by
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Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1683; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101683 - 14 May 2022
Abstract
Diets rich in omega-3 or -6 fatty acids will produce different profiles for cell membranes phospholipid constitutions. Omegas 3 and 6 are part of the diet and can modulate the inflammatory profile. We evaluated the effects of the oral absorption of fish oil,
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Diets rich in omega-3 or -6 fatty acids will produce different profiles for cell membranes phospholipid constitutions. Omegas 3 and 6 are part of the diet and can modulate the inflammatory profile. We evaluated the effects of the oral absorption of fish oil, when associated with a lipid nanoemulsion in an experimental pulmonary inflammatory model. Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease associated with excessive extracellular matrix deposition. We determined to investigate the morphophysiological mechanisms in mice that were pretreated after induction with bleomycin (BLM). The pretreatment was for 21 days with saline solution, sunflower oil (SO), fish oil (FO), and fish oil nanoemulsion (NEW3). The animals received a daily dose of 50 mg/Kg of docosahexaenoic acid DHA and 10 mg/Kg eicosapentaenoic (EPA) (100 mg/Kg), represented by a daily dose of 40 µL of NEW3. The blank group was treated with the same amount daily (40 µL) during the 21 days of pretreatment. The animals were treated with SO and FO, 100 mg/Kg (containing 58 mg/Kg of polyunsaturated fats/higher% linoleic acid) and 100 mg/Kg (50 mg/Kg of DHA and 10 mg/Kg EPA), respectively. A single dose of 5 mg/mL (50 μL) bleomycin sulfate, by the intratracheal surgical method in BALB/cAnNTac (BALB/c). NEW3 significantly reduced fibrotic progression, which can be evidenced by the protection from loss of body mass, increase in respiratory incursions per minute, decreased spacing of alveolar septa, decreased severity of fibrosis, and changes in the respiratory system. NEW3 attenuated the inflammatory changes developed in the experimental model of pulmonary fibrosis, while group SO showed a significant increase in inflammatory changes. This concluded that the presented results demonstrated that is possible to positively modulate the immune and inflamamtory response to an external agressor, by changing the nutitional intake of specific fatty acids, such as omega-3 placed in fish oil. Moreover, these benefits can be improved by the nanoencapsulation of fish oil in lipid nanoemulsions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Biological Systems: Opportunities and Challenges)
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Open AccessArticle
Insights into Electron Transport in a Ferroelectric Tunnel Junction
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1682; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12101682 - 14 May 2022
Abstract
The success of a ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) depends on the asymmetry of electron tunneling as given by the tunneling electroresistance (TER) effect. This characteristic is mainly assessed considering three transport mechanisms: direct tunneling, thermionic emission, and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling. Here, by analyzing the
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The success of a ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) depends on the asymmetry of electron tunneling as given by the tunneling electroresistance (TER) effect. This characteristic is mainly assessed considering three transport mechanisms: direct tunneling, thermionic emission, and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling. Here, by analyzing the effect of temperature on TER, we show that taking into account only these mechanisms may not be enough in order to fully characterize the performance of FTJ devices. We approach the electron tunneling in FTJ with the non-equilibrium Green function (NEGF) method, which is able to overcome the limitations affecting the three mechanisms mentioned above. We bring evidence that the performance of FTJs is also affected by temperature–in a non-trivial way–via resonance (Gamow-Siegert) states, which are present in the electron transmission probability and are usually situated above the barrier. Although the NEGF technique does not provide direct access to the wavefunctions, we show that, for single-band transport, one can find the wavefunction at any given energy and in particular at resonant energies in the system.
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(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)

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