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
Fluorocarbon Plasma-Polymerized Layer Increases the Release Time of Silver Ions and the Antibacterial Activity of Silver-Based Coatings
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070609 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However,
[...] Read more.
Silver-based antibacterial coatings limit the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Indeed, the use of silver and silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag and AgO NPs) incorporated in amorphous hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) as a matrix demonstrates a promising approach to reduce microbial contamination on environmental surfaces. However, its success as an antibacterial coating hinges on the control of Ag+ release. In this sense, if a continuous release is required, an additional barrier is needed to extend the release time of Ag+. Thus, this research investigated the use of a plasma fluoropolymer (CFx) as an additional top layer to elongate Ag+ release and increase the antibacterial activity due to its high hydrophobic nature. Herein, a porous CFx film was deposited on a-C:H containing Ag and AgO NPs using pulsed afterglow low pressure plasma polymerization. The chemical composition, surface wettability and morphology, release profile, and antibacterial activity were analyzed. Overall, the combination of a-C:H:Ag (12.1 at. % of Ag) and CFx film (120.0°, F/C = 0.8) successfully inactivated 88% of E. coli and delayed biofilm formation after 12 h. Thus, using a hybrid approach composed of Ag NPs and a hydrophobic polymeric layer, it was possible to increase the overall antibacterial activity of the coating.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
Open AccessArticle
Optimizing the Structure and Optical Properties of Lanthanum Aluminate Perovskite through Nb5+ Doping
by
Wei Liu, Yang Zou, Yuang Chen, Zijian Lei, Lili Zhao and Lixin Song
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070608 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
This work involves the introduction of niobium oxide into lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO3) via a conventional solid-state reaction technique to yield LaAlO3:Nb (LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ) samples with Nb5+ doping levels ranging from 0.00 to
[...] Read more.
This work involves the introduction of niobium oxide into lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO3) via a conventional solid-state reaction technique to yield LaAlO3:Nb (LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ) samples with Nb5+ doping levels ranging from 0.00 to 0.25 mol%. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the effects of niobium doping on the phase evolution, defect control, and reflectance of LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ powder. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the perovskite structure in all powders, and XRD and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal successful doping of Nb5+ into LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ. The surface morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the results show that increasing the doping concentration of niobium leads to fewer microstructural defects. Oxygen vacancy defects in different compositions are analyzed at 300 K, and as the doping level increases, a clear trend of defect reduction is observed. Notably, LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ with 0.15 mol% Nb5+ exhibits excellent reflectance properties, with a maximum infrared reflectance of 99.7%. This study shows that LaNbxAl1−xO3+δ powder materials have wide application potential in the field of high reflectivity coating materials due to their extremely low microstructural defects and oxygen vacancy defects.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Phonon Pseudoangular Momentum in α-MoO3
by
Meiqi Li, Zhibing Li, Huanjun Chen and Weiliang Wang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070607 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In recent studies, it has been discovered that phonons can carry angular momentum, leading to a series of investigations into systems with three-fold rotation symmetry. However, for systems with two-fold screw rotational symmetry, such as α-MoO3, there has been no relevant
[...] Read more.
In recent studies, it has been discovered that phonons can carry angular momentum, leading to a series of investigations into systems with three-fold rotation symmetry. However, for systems with two-fold screw rotational symmetry, such as α-MoO3, there has been no relevant discussion. In this paper, we investigated the pseudoangular momentum of phonons in crystals with two-fold screw rotational symmetry. Taking α-MoO3 as an example, we explain the selection rules in circularly polarized Raman experiments resulting from pseudoangular momentum conservation, providing important guidance for experiments. This study of pseudoangular momentum in α-MoO3 opens up a new degree of freedom for its potential applications, expanding into new application domains.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Playing with Low Amounts of Expanded Graphite for Melt-Processed Polyamide and Copolyester Nanocomposites to Achieve Control of Mechanical, Tribological, Thermal and Dielectric Properties
by
Ruben Vande Ryse, Michiel Van Osta, Mounia Gruyaert, Maarten Oosterlinck, Ádám Kalácska, Mariya Edeleva, Frederik Pille, Dagmar R. D’hooge, Ludwig Cardon and Patrick De Baets
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070606 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
Polyamide 11 (PA11) and copolyester (TPC-E) were compounded through melt extrusion with low levels (below 10%) of expanded graphite (EG), aiming at the manufacturing of a thermally and electrically conductive composite resistant to friction and with acceptable mechanical properties. Thermal characterisation showed that
[...] Read more.
Polyamide 11 (PA11) and copolyester (TPC-E) were compounded through melt extrusion with low levels (below 10%) of expanded graphite (EG), aiming at the manufacturing of a thermally and electrically conductive composite resistant to friction and with acceptable mechanical properties. Thermal characterisation showed that the EG presence had no influence on the onset degradation temperature or melting temperature. While the specific density of the produced composite materials increased linearly with increasing levels of EG, the tensile modulus and flexural modulus showed a significant increase already at the introduction of 1 wt% EG. However, the elongation at break decreased significantly for higher loadings, which is typical for composite materials. We observed the increase in the dielectric and thermal conductivity, and the dissipated power displayed a much larger increase where high frequencies (e.g., 10 GHz) were taken into account. The tribological results showed significant changes at 4 wt% for the PA11 composite and 6 wt% for the TPC-E composite. Morphological analysis of the wear surfaces indicated that the main wear mechanism changed from abrasive wear to adhesive wear, which contributes to the enhanced wear resistance of the developed materials. Overall, we manufactured new composite materials with enhanced dielectric properties and superior wear resistance while maintaining good processability, specifically upon using 4–6 wt% of EG.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermally Conductive Nanomaterials and Their Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
Ultrahigh-Q Polarization-Independent Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber Using Pattern-Free Graphene for Sensing Applications
by
Youxin Chen, Guotao Sun, Jiang Wei, Yan Miao, Wenqian Zhang, Kaiyu Wu and Qingkang Wang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070605 (registering DOI) - 29 Mar 2024
Abstract
In contrast to noble metals, graphene exhibits significantly lower loss, especially useful for optical sensing applications that require ultrahigh Q factors, and offer wide range tunability via an adjustable Fermi level. However, precise graphene patterning is difficult, especially for large areas, severely limiting
[...] Read more.
In contrast to noble metals, graphene exhibits significantly lower loss, especially useful for optical sensing applications that require ultrahigh Q factors, and offer wide range tunability via an adjustable Fermi level. However, precise graphene patterning is difficult, especially for large areas, severely limiting its applications. Here, a tunable terahertz metamaterial absorber (TMMA) with ultrahigh Q factors consisting of a continuous, pattern-free graphene is demonstrated. A graphene sheet is overlaid on an Al metal array, forming a structure that supports strong localized surface plasmon polaritons (LSPPs) with fields tightly confined in the graphene, minimizing loss. Theoretical results show that this TMMA exhibits an ultrahigh Q factor of 1730, a frequency sensitivity of 2.84 THz/RIU, and an excellent figure of merit (FoM) of 365.85 RIU−1, independent of polarization. A tunability from ~2.25 to ~3.25 THz is also achieved by tuning Ef of graphene from 0.3 to 0.7 eV. The proposed graphene-based TMMA holds many potential applications, particularly in the field of sensing.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hybrid Nanostructured Composites for Environmental and Bio-Sensing Application)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Thermal Energy Storage Using Hybrid Nanofluid Phase Change Material (PCM) based on Waste Sludge Incorp Rated ZnO/α-Fe2O3
by
Ehssan Ahmed Hassan, Maha A. Tony and Mohamed M. Awad
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070604 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
Renewable solar energy storage facilities are attracting scientists’ attention since they can overcome the key issues affecting the shortage of energy. A nanofluid phase change material (PCM) is introduced as a new sort of PCM is settled by suspending small proportions of nanoparticles
[...] Read more.
Renewable solar energy storage facilities are attracting scientists’ attention since they can overcome the key issues affecting the shortage of energy. A nanofluid phase change material (PCM) is introduced as a new sort of PCM is settled by suspending small proportions of nanoparticles in melting paraffin. ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals were prepared by a simple co-precipitation route and ultrasonically dispersed in the paraffin to be a nanofluid-PCM. The behaviors of the ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals were verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and the average particle size and the morphology of the nanoparticles were explored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For the object of industrial ecology concept, aluminum-based waste derived from water-works plants alum sludge (AS) is dried and augmented with the ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals as a source of multimetals such as aluminum to the composite, and it is named AS-ZnO/α-Fe2O3. The melting and freezing cycles were checked to evaluate the PCM at different weight proportions of AS-ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals, which confirmed that their presence enhanced the heat transfer rate of paraffin. The nanofluids with AS-ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles revealed good stability in melting paraffin. Additionally, the melting and freezing cycles of nanofluid-PCM (PCM- ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles) were significantly superior upon supplementing ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Nanofluid-PCM contained the AS-ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals in the range of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 wt%. The results showed that 1.0 wt% AS-ZnO/α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals contained in the nanofluid-PCM could enhance the performance with 93% with a heat gained reached 47 kJ.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Storage)
Open AccessArticle
Ru-Ce0.7Zr0.3O2−δ as an Anode Catalyst for the Internal Reforming of Dimethyl Ether in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
by
Miguel Morales, Mohammad Rezayat, Sandra García-González, Antonio Mateo and Emilio Jiménez-Piqué
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070603 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
The development of direct dimethyl ether (DME) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) has several drawbacks, due to the low catalytic activity and carbon deposition of conventional Ni–zirconia-based anodes. In the present study, the insertion of 2.0 wt.% Ru-Ce0.7Zr0.3O2−δ
[...] Read more.
The development of direct dimethyl ether (DME) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) has several drawbacks, due to the low catalytic activity and carbon deposition of conventional Ni–zirconia-based anodes. In the present study, the insertion of 2.0 wt.% Ru-Ce0.7Zr0.3O2−δ (ruthenium–zirconium-doped ceria, Ru-CZO) as an anode catalyst layer (ACL) is proposed to be a promising solution. For this purpose, the CZO powder was prepared by the sol–gel synthesis method, and subsequently, nanoparticles of Ru (1.0–2.0 wt.%) were synthesized by the impregnation method and calcination. The catalyst powder was characterized by BET-specific surface area, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive spectroscopy detector (FESEM-EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Afterward, the catalytic activity of Ru-CZO catalyst was studied using DME partial oxidation. Finally, button anode-supported SOFCs with Ru-CZO ACL were prepared, depositing Ru-CZO onto the anode support and using an annealing process. The effect of ACL on the electrochemical performance of cells was investigated under a DME and air mixture at 750 °C. The results showed a high dispersion of Ru in the CZO solid solution, which provided a complete DME conversion and high yields of H2 and CO at 750 °C. As a result, 2.0 wt.% Ru-CZO ACL enhanced the cell performance by more than 20% at 750 °C. The post-test analysis of cells with ACL proved a remarkable resistance of Ru-CZO ACL to carbon deposition compared to the reference cell, evidencing the potential application of Ru-CZO as a catalyst as well as an ACL for direct DME SOFCs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanoscale Electrocatalysts)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Studying the Structure and Properties of Epoxy Composites Modified by Original and Functionalized with Hexamethylenediamine by Electrochemically Synthesized Graphene Oxide
by
Anton Mostovoy, Amirbek Bekeshev, Sergey Brudnik, Andrey Yakovlev, Andrey Shcherbakov, Nurgul Zhanturina, Arai Zhumabekova, Elena Yakovleva, Vitaly Tseluikin and Marina Lopukhova
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070602 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this study, we used multilayer graphene oxide (GO) obtained by anodic oxidation of graphite powder in 83% sulfuric acid. The modification of GO was carried out by its interaction with hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) according to the mechanism of nucleophilic substitution between the amino
[...] Read more.
In this study, we used multilayer graphene oxide (GO) obtained by anodic oxidation of graphite powder in 83% sulfuric acid. The modification of GO was carried out by its interaction with hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) according to the mechanism of nucleophilic substitution between the amino group of HMDA (HMDA) and the epoxy groups of GO, accompanied by partial reduction of multilayer GO and an increase in the deformation of the carbon layers. The structure and properties of modified HMDA-GO were characterized using research methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The conducted studies show the effectiveness of using HMDA-OG for modifying epoxy composites. Functionalizing treatment of GO particles helps reduce the free surface energy at the polymer–nanofiller interface and increase adhesion, which leads to the improvement in physical and mechanical characteristics of the composite material. The results demonstrate an increase in the strength and elastic modulus in bending by 48% and 102%, respectively, an increase in the impact strength by 122%, and an increase in the strength and elastic modulus in tension by 82% and 47%, respectively, as compared to the pristine epoxy composite which did not contain GO-HMDA. It has been found that the addition of GO-HMDA into the epoxy composition initiates the polymerization process due to the participation of reactive amino groups in the polymerization reaction, and also provides an increase in the thermal stability of epoxy nanocomposites.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and Graphene-Based Polymer Composites: From Preparation to Applications)
Open AccessArticle
The Roles of Impurities and Surface Area on Thermal Stability and Oxidation Resistance of BN Nanoplatelets
by
Nikolaos Kostoglou, Sebastian Stock, Angelos Solomi, Damian M. Holzapfel, Steven Hinder, Mark Baker, Georgios Constantinides, Vladislav Ryzhkov, Jelena Maletaskic, Branko Matovic, Jochen M. Schneider, Claus Rebholz and Christian Mitterer
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070601 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study considers the influence of purity and surface area on the thermal and oxidation properties of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanoplatelets, which represent crucial factors in high-temperature oxidizing environments. Three h-BN nanoplatelet-based materials, synthesized with different purity levels and surface areas (~3,
[...] Read more.
This study considers the influence of purity and surface area on the thermal and oxidation properties of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanoplatelets, which represent crucial factors in high-temperature oxidizing environments. Three h-BN nanoplatelet-based materials, synthesized with different purity levels and surface areas (~3, ~56, and ~140 m2/g), were compared, including a commercial BN reference. All materials were systematically analyzed by various characterization techniques, including gas pycnometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared radiation, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, gas sorption analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis coupled with differential scanning calorimetry. Results indicated that the thermal stability and oxidation resistance of the synthesized materials were improved by up to ~13.5% (or by 120 °C) with an increase in purity. Furthermore, the reference material with its high purity and low surface area (~4 m2/g) showed superior performance, which was attributed to the minimized reactive sites for oxygen diffusion due to lower surface area availability and fewer possible defects, highlighting the critical roles of both sample purity and accessible surface area in h-BN thermo-oxidative stability. These findings highlight the importance of focusing on purity and surface area control in developing BN-based nanomaterials, offering a path to enhance their performance in extreme thermal and oxidative conditions.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Singleton {NOT} and Doubleton {YES; NOT} Gates Act as Functionally Complete Sets in DNA-Integrated Computational Circuits
by
Andrea C. Bardales, Quynh Vo and Dmitry M. Kolpashchikov
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070600 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
A functionally complete Boolean operator is sufficient for computational circuits of arbitrary complexity. We connected YES (buffer) with NOT (inverter) and two NOT four-way junction (4J) DNA gates to obtain IMPLY and NAND Boolean functions, respectively, each of which represents a functionally complete
[...] Read more.
A functionally complete Boolean operator is sufficient for computational circuits of arbitrary complexity. We connected YES (buffer) with NOT (inverter) and two NOT four-way junction (4J) DNA gates to obtain IMPLY and NAND Boolean functions, respectively, each of which represents a functionally complete gate. The results show a technological path towards creating a DNA computational circuit of arbitrary complexity based on singleton NOT or a combination of NOT and YES gates, which is not possible in electronic computers. We, therefore, concluded that DNA-based circuits and molecular computation may offer opportunities unforeseen in electronics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)
Open AccessArticle
High Catalytic Activity of CoxPt100−x Alloys for Phenolic Compound Reduction
by
Oana-Georgiana Dragos-Pinzaru, Gabriela Buema, Luiza Racila, Gabriel Ababei, Firuta Borza, George Stoian, Ibro Tabakovic and Nicoleta Lupu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070599 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this study, we report the influence of the Pt concentration in CoxPt100−x alloys on the catalytic activity of the alloys for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) reduction. More precisely, a series of CoxPt100−x alloys with a Pt concentration ranging
[...] Read more.
In this study, we report the influence of the Pt concentration in CoxPt100−x alloys on the catalytic activity of the alloys for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) reduction. More precisely, a series of CoxPt100−x alloys with a Pt concentration ranging between 60% and 95% were prepared using electrodeposition at controlled potentials from stable hexachloroplatinate aqueous solution. The Pt concentration was tuned by varying the electrodeposition potential from −0.6 to −0.9 V. The changes in the CoxPt100−x alloy microstructure and crystalline structure have been investigated using SEM and TEM analysis. Our results show that the microstructure and the crystalline structure of the as-prepared materials do not depend on the electrodeposition potential. However, the catalytic activity of CoxPt100−x alloys is closely correlated with the potential applied during electrochemical synthesis, hence the Pt content. We demonstrated that the synthesized materials present a high catalytic activity (approx. 90%) after six cycles of reusability despite the fact that the Pt content of the as-prepared alloys decreases. The easy preparation method that guarantees more than 97% catalytic activity of the CoxPt100−x alloys, the easy recovery from solution, and the possibility of reusing the CoxPt100−x alloys are the benefits of the present study.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Nanomaterials for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development)
Open AccessArticle
High-Performance Coaxial Counter-Rotating Triboelectric Nanogenerator with Lift–Drag Hybrid Blades for Wind Energy Harvesting
by
Fei Yan, Junhao Zhao, Fangming Li, Yiyao Chu, Hengxu Du, Minzheng Sun, Ziyue Xi, Taili Du and Minyi Xu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070598 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Wind energy holds potential for in-situ powering large-scale distributed wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) in the Internet of Things (IoT) era. To achieve high performance in wind energy harvesting, a coaxial counter-rotating triboelectric nanogenerator with lift–drag hybrid blades, termed CCR-TENG, has been proposed. The
[...] Read more.
Wind energy holds potential for in-situ powering large-scale distributed wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) in the Internet of Things (IoT) era. To achieve high performance in wind energy harvesting, a coaxial counter-rotating triboelectric nanogenerator with lift–drag hybrid blades, termed CCR-TENG, has been proposed. The CCR-TENG, which can work in non-contact and soft-contact modes, realizes low-speed wind energy harvesting through a combination of counter-clockwise rotating lift-type blades and clockwise rotating drag-type blades. Non-contact CCR-TENG realizes low-speed wind energy harvesting at wind speeds as low as 1 m/s. The output of a CCR-TENG, working in soft-contact mode, achieves 41% promotion with a maximum short-circuit current of 0.11 mA and a peak surface power density of 6.2 W/m2 with two TENGs connected in parallel. Furthermore, the power density per unit of wind speed achieves 746 mW/m3·s/m. Consequently, two fluorescent lamps were successfully illuminated and six temperature sensors were continuously lit by the CCR-TENG. The reported CCR-TENG significantly improves low-speed environmental wind energy utilization and demonstrates broad application prospects for in-situ power supply of distributed wireless transmission devices and sensors in the era of the IoT.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Incorporating Nanoclay in NVCL-NIPAm Hydrogels on Swelling Behaviours and Mechanical Properties
by
Billy Shu Hieng Tie, Eyman Manaf, Elaine Halligan, Shuo Zhuo, Gavin Keane, Joseph Geever and Luke Geever
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070597 - 28 Mar 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Following the formulation development from a previous study utilising N-vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) as monomers, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) as a chemical crosslinker, and Irgacure 2959 as photoinitiator, nanoclay (NC) is now incorporated into the selected formulation for enhanced mechanical performance and
[...] Read more.
Following the formulation development from a previous study utilising N-vinylcaprolactam (NVCL) and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) as monomers, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) as a chemical crosslinker, and Irgacure 2959 as photoinitiator, nanoclay (NC) is now incorporated into the selected formulation for enhanced mechanical performance and swelling ability. In this research, two types of NC, hydrophilic bentonite nanoclay (NCB) and surface-modified nanoclay (NCSM) of several percentages, were included in the formulation. The prepared mixtures were photopolymerised, and the fabricated gels were characterised through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), cloud-point measurements, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, pulsatile swelling, rheological analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the effect of swelling temperature, NC types, and NC concentration on the hydrogels’ swelling ratio was studied through a full-factorial design of experiment (DOE). The successful photopolymerised NC-incorporated NVCL-NIPAm hydrogels retained the same lower critical solution temperature (LCST) as previously. Rheological analysis and SEM described the improved mechanical strength and polymer orientation of gels with any NCB percentage and low NCSM percentage. Finally, the temperature displayed the most significant effect on the hydrogels’ swelling ability, followed by the NC types and NC concentration. Introducing NC to hydrogels could potentially make them suitable for applications that require good mechanical performance.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Thickness-Dependent Gilbert Damping and Soft Magnetism in Metal/Co-Fe-B/Metal Sandwich Structure
by
Yimo Fan, Jiawei Wang, Aitian Chen, Kai Yu, Mingmin Zhu, Yunxin Han, Sen Zhang, Xianqing Lin, Haomiao Zhou, Xixiang Zhang and Qiang Lin
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070596 - 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
[...] Read more.
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.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Ferroelectric and Spintronic Nanoscale Materials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
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://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070595 - 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
[...] Read more.
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)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Fabricating Planar Perovskite Solar Cells through a Greener Approach
by
Sajid Sajid, Salem Alzahmi, Nouar Tabet, Yousef Haik and Ihab M. Obaidat
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070594 - 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),
[...] Read more.
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)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Understanding Lignin Dissolution with Urea and the Formation of a Lignin Nano-Aggregate: A Multiscale Approach
by
Jinxin Lin, Liheng Chen, Yanlin Qin and Xueqing Qiu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 593; https://doi.org/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.
[...] Read more.
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://doi.org/10.3390/nano14070592 - 27 Mar 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
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
[...] Read more.
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.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Advancements in Transparent Conductive Oxides for Photoelectrochemical Applications
by
He Wen, Bo Weng, Bing Wang, Wenbo Xiao, Xiao Liu, Yiming Wang, Menglong Zhang and Haowei Huang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 591; https://doi.org/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
[...] Read more.
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)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
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
by
Oleksandr Romanyuk, Štěpán Stehlík, Josef Zemek, Kateřina Aubrechtová Dragounová and Alexander Kromka
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(7), 590; https://doi.org/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
[...] Read more.
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)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Nanomaterials Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
27 March 2024
Prof. Dennis K. P. Ng Appointed Associate Section Editor-in-Chief of Section “Biology and Medicine” in Nanomaterials
Prof. Dennis K. P. Ng Appointed Associate Section Editor-in-Chief of Section “Biology and Medicine” in Nanomaterials
20 March 2024
Meet Us at the International Conference on Magnetism 2024 (ICM 2024), 30 June–5 July 2024, Bologna, Italy
Meet Us at the International Conference on Magnetism 2024 (ICM 2024), 30 June–5 July 2024, Bologna, Italy
Topics
Topic in
Applied Sciences, Energies, Materials, Nanoenergy Advances, Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Topic Editors: Robert A. Varin, Geng ZhongDeadline: 31 March 2024
Topic in
Applied Sciences, Energies, Materials, Nanoenergy Advances, Nanomaterials
Applications of Nanomaterials in Energy Systems, 2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Eleftheria C. Pyrgioti, Ioannis F. Gonos, Diaa-Eldin A. MansourDeadline: 30 April 2024
Topic in
Materials, Nanomaterials, Photonics, Polymers, Applied Sciences, Sensors
Optical and Optoelectronic Properties of Materials and Their Applications
Topic Editors: Zhiping Luo, Gibin George, Navadeep ShrivastavaDeadline: 20 May 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, Cancers, JFB, Nanomaterials, Polymers
Advanced Functional Materials for Regenerative Medicine
Topic Editors: Antonino Morabito, Luca ValentiniDeadline: 6 June 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Organic and Inorganic Nanostructured Composites for Medical Application
Guest Editors: Andrea Zille, Jorge PadrãoDeadline: 30 March 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Planar Optical Components Based on the Prepatterned Surfaces, Metasurfaces, and Hybrid Nanomaterials II
Guest Editor: Josep Canet-FerrerDeadline: 1 April 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Metrology for Energy Nanomaterials
Guest Editors: François Piquemal, Séverine Gomès, Luca Boarino, Burkhard BeckhoffDeadline: 20 April 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Nano-Photonics and Meta-Nanomaterials
Guest Editor: Suchand SandeepDeadline: 10 May 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Nanomaterials
Process Intensification, Process Design and Green Techniques for Nanomaterials Production and Applications
Collection Editors: Marco Stoller, Giorgio Vilardi
Topical Collection in
Nanomaterials
Magnetic Nanostructured Materials: Synthesis, Characterization and Their Cutting-Edge Applications
Collection Editors: Vasileios Tzitzios, Georgia Basina
Topical Collection in
Nanomaterials
The Fourth State of Engineering: Nanoengineered Materials and Coatings Facilitated by Plasma Techniques
Collection Editors: Krasimir Vasilev, Kostya (Ken) Ostrikov, Thomas Michl, Akash Bachhuka
Topical Collection in
Nanomaterials
Nanoarchitectonics of the Fourth Fundamental Electronic Component: Memristor, Meminductor and Memcapacitor
Collection Editors: Firman Simanjuntak, Yao-Feng Chang, Sridhar Chandrasekaran