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
Innovative Material-Based Wearable Non-Invasive Electrochemical Sweat Sensors towards Biomedical Applications
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100857 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Sweat is an accessible biofluid that provides useful physiological information about the body’s biomolecular state and systemic health. Wearable sensors possess various advantageous features, such as lightweight design, wireless connectivity, and compatibility with human skin, that make them suitable for continuous monitoring. Wearable
[...] Read more.
Sweat is an accessible biofluid that provides useful physiological information about the body’s biomolecular state and systemic health. Wearable sensors possess various advantageous features, such as lightweight design, wireless connectivity, and compatibility with human skin, that make them suitable for continuous monitoring. Wearable electrochemical sweat sensors can diagnose diseases and monitor health conditions by detecting biomedical signal changes in sweat. This paper discusses the state-of-the-art research in the field of wearable sweat sensors and the materials used in their construction. It covers biomarkers present in sweat, sensing modalities, techniques for sweat collection, and ways to power these sensors. Innovative materials are categorized into three subcategories: sweat collection, sweat detection, and self-powering. These include substrates for sensor fabrication, analyte detection electrodes, absorbent patches, microfluidic devices, and self-powered devices. This paper concludes by forecasting future research trends and prospects in material-based wearable non-invasive sweat sensors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gas-Sensing Properties of Nanostructured Materials)
Open AccessArticle
New Approach to Synthesizing Cathode PtCo/C Catalysts for Low-Temperature Fuel Cells
by
Sergey Belenov, Dmitriy Mauer, Elizabeth Moguchikh, Anna Gavrilova, Alina Nevelskaya, Egor Beskopylny, Ilya Pankov, Aleksey Nikulin and Anastasia Alekseenko
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 856; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100856 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
The presented study is concerned with a new multi-step method to synthesize PtCo/C materials based on composite CoxOy/C that combines the advantages of different liquid-phase synthesis methods. Based on the results of studying the materials at each stage of
[...] Read more.
The presented study is concerned with a new multi-step method to synthesize PtCo/C materials based on composite CoxOy/C that combines the advantages of different liquid-phase synthesis methods. Based on the results of studying the materials at each stage of synthesis with the TG, XRD, TEM, SEI, TXRF, CV and LSV methods, a detailed overview of the sequential changes in catalyst composition and structure at each stage of the synthesis is presented. The PtCo/C catalyst synthesized with the multi-step method is characterized by a uniform distribution of bimetallic nanoparticles of about 3 nm in size over the surface of the support, which result in its high ESA and ORR activity. The activity study for the synthesized PtCo/C catalyst in an MEA showed better current–voltage characteristics and a higher maximum specific power compared with an MEA based on a commercial Pt/C catalyst. Therefore, the results of the presented study demonstrate high prospects for the developed approach to the multi-step synthesis of PtM/C catalysts, which may enhance the characteristics of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Environmental Catalysis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Review of Detection Limits for Various Techniques for Bacterial Detection in Food Samples
by
Xinyi Zhao, Abhijnan Bhat, Christine O’Connor, James Curtin, Baljit Singh and Furong Tian
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 855; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100855 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Foodborne illnesses can be infectious and dangerous, and most of them are caused by bacteria. Some common food-related bacteria species exist widely in nature and pose a serious threat to both humans and animals; they can cause poisoning, diseases, disabilities and even death.
[...] Read more.
Foodborne illnesses can be infectious and dangerous, and most of them are caused by bacteria. Some common food-related bacteria species exist widely in nature and pose a serious threat to both humans and animals; they can cause poisoning, diseases, disabilities and even death. Rapid, reliable and cost-effective methods for bacterial detection are of paramount importance in food safety and environmental monitoring. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), lateral flow immunochromatographic assay (LFIA) and electrochemical methods have been widely used in food safety and environmental monitoring. In this paper, the recent developments (2013–2023) covering PCR, LFIA and electrochemical methods for various bacterial species (Salmonella, Listeria, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli)), considering different food sample types, analytical performances and the reported limit of detection (LOD), are discussed. It was found that the bacteria species and food sample type contributed significantly to the analytical performance and LOD. Detection via LFIA has a higher average LOD (24 CFU/mL) than detection via electrochemical methods (12 CFU/mL) and PCR (6 CFU/mL). Salmonella and E. coli in the Pseudomonadota domain usually have low LODs. LODs are usually lower for detection in fish and eggs. Gold and iron nanoparticles were the most studied in the reported articles for LFIA, and average LODs were 26 CFU/mL and 12 CFU/mL, respectively. The electrochemical method revealed that the average LOD was highest for cyclic voltammetry (CV) at 18 CFU/mL, followed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) at 12 CFU/mL and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) at 8 CFU/mL. LOD usually decreases when the sample number increases until it remains unchanged. Exponential relations (R2 > 0.95) between LODs of Listeria in milk via LFIA and via the electrochemical method with sample numbers have been obtained. Finally, the review discusses challenges and future perspectives (including the role of nanomaterials/advanced materials) to improve analytical performance for bacterial detection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials and Their Composites for Biosensing Applications—Volume II)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Optimisation Challenge for a Superconducting Adiabatic Neural Network That Implements XOR and OR Boolean Functions
by
Dmitrii S. Pashin, Marina V. Bastrakova, Dmitrii A. Rybin, Igor. I. Soloviev, Nikolay V. Klenov and Andrey E. Schegolev
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 854; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100854 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
In this article, we consider designs of simple analog artificial neural networks based on adiabatic Josephson cells with a sigmoid activation function. A new approach based on the gradient descent method is developed to adjust the circuit parameters, allowing efficient signal transmission between
[...] Read more.
In this article, we consider designs of simple analog artificial neural networks based on adiabatic Josephson cells with a sigmoid activation function. A new approach based on the gradient descent method is developed to adjust the circuit parameters, allowing efficient signal transmission between the network layers. The proposed solution is demonstrated on the example of a system that implements XOR and OR logical operations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuromorphic Devices: Materials, Structures and Bionic Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Synergetic Catalytic Effect between Ni and Co in Bimetallic Phosphide Boosting Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
by
Xiaohan Wang, Han Tian, Libo Zhu, Shujing Li and Xiangzhi Cui
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100853 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The application of electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for renewable energy conversion contributes to the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon emission society. Metal phosphides have been considered as promising HER catalysts in the alkaline environment, which, unfortunately, is still limited owing to the
[...] Read more.
The application of electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for renewable energy conversion contributes to the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon emission society. Metal phosphides have been considered as promising HER catalysts in the alkaline environment, which, unfortunately, is still limited owing to the weak adsorption of H* and easy dissolution during operation. Herein, a bimetallic NiCoP-2/NF phosphide is constructed on nickel foam (NF), requiring rather low overpotentials of 150 mV and 169 mV to meet the current densities of 500 and 1000 mA cm−2, respectively, and able to operate stably for 100 h without detectable activity decay. The excellent HER performance is obtained thanks to the synergetic catalytic effect between Ni and Co, among which Ni is introduced to enhance the intrinsic activity and Co increases the electrochemically active area. Meanwhile, the protection of the externally generated amorphous phosphorus oxide layer improves the stability of NiCoP/NF. An electrolyser using NiCoP-2/NF as both cathode and anode catalysts in an alkaline solution can produce hydrogen with low electric consumption (overpotential of 270 mV at 500 mA cm−2).
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Synthesis of Controllable Superparamagnetic Nano Fe3O4 Based on Reduction Method for Colloidal Clusters of Magnetically Responsive Photonic Crystals
by
Jun Chen, Mengdong Tu, Mengying Xu, Depeng Gong, Xi Li and Chaocan Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100852 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we designed and investigated a reduction-based method to synthesize controllably monodisperse superparamagnetic nano Fe3O4 colloidal clusters for magnetically responsive photonic crystals. It was shown that the addition of ascorbic acid (VC) to the system could synthesize monodisperse
[...] Read more.
In this paper, we designed and investigated a reduction-based method to synthesize controllably monodisperse superparamagnetic nano Fe3O4 colloidal clusters for magnetically responsive photonic crystals. It was shown that the addition of ascorbic acid (VC) to the system could synthesize monodisperse superparamagnetic nano Fe3O4 and avoided the generation of γ-Fe2O3 impurities, while the particle size and saturation magnetization intensity of nano Fe3O4 gradually decreased with the increase of VC dosage. Nano Fe3O4 could be rapidly assembled into photonic crystal dot matrix structures under a magnetic field, demonstrating tunability to various diffraction wavelengths. The nano Fe3O4 modified by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and silicon coated could be stably dispersed in a variety of organic solvents and thus diffracted different wavelengths under a magnetic field. This is expected to be applied in various scenarios in the field of optical color development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Magnetic Nanostructured Materials: Synthesis, Characterization and Their Cutting-Edge Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
AC Characteristics of van der Waals Bipolar Junction Transistors Using an MoS2/WSe2/MoS2 Heterostructure
by
Zezhang Yan, Ningsheng Xu and Shaozhi Deng
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100851 (registering DOI) - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Two-dimensional layered materials, characterized by their atomically thin thicknesses and surfaces that are free of dangling bonds, hold great promise for fabricating ultrathin, lightweight, and flexible bipolar junction transistors (BJTs). In this paper, a van der Waals (vdW) BJT was fabricated by vertically
[...] Read more.
Two-dimensional layered materials, characterized by their atomically thin thicknesses and surfaces that are free of dangling bonds, hold great promise for fabricating ultrathin, lightweight, and flexible bipolar junction transistors (BJTs). In this paper, a van der Waals (vdW) BJT was fabricated by vertically stacking MoS2, WSe2, and MoS2 flakes in sequence. The AC characteristics of the vdW BJT were studied for the first time, in which a maximum common emitter voltage gain of around 3.5 was observed. By investigating the time domain characteristics of the device under various operating frequencies, the frequency response of the device was summarized, which experimentally proved that the MoS2/WSe2/MoS2 BJT has voltage amplification capability in the 0–200 Hz region. In addition, the phase response of the device was also investigated. A phase inversion was observed in the low-frequency range. As the operating frequency increases, the relative phase between the input and output signals gradually shifts until it is in phase at frequencies exceeding 2.3 kHz. This work demonstrates the signal amplification applications of the vdW BJTs for neuromorphic computing and wearable healthcare devices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Layered Nanomaterials and Heterostructures for Electronics, Optoelectronics and Sensing)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Preparation and Application of Nano-Calcined Excavation Soil as Substitute for Cement
by
Li Ling, Jindong Yang, Wanqiong Yao, Feng Xing, Hongfang Sun and Yali Li
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 850; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100850 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Rapid urbanization in many cities has produced massive amounts of problematic excavation soil. The direct disposal of untreated excavation soil often leads to significant land use and severe environmental concerns. A sustainable solution is to transform the soil waste into high-quality nano-calcined excavation
[...] Read more.
Rapid urbanization in many cities has produced massive amounts of problematic excavation soil. The direct disposal of untreated excavation soil often leads to significant land use and severe environmental concerns. A sustainable solution is to transform the soil waste into high-quality nano-calcined excavation soil (NCES) for application as a substitute for cement in construction. However, research in this area is very limited. This study presents a systematic investigation of the nano-sized calcined soil materials from preparation to application in cementitious material. The influence of milling parameters, including the rotational speed, milling duration, ball diameter, and milling strategy, was investigated to produce NCES with various specific surface areas. The effect of NCES substitution (15 wt% of Portland cement) in cementitious materials was then examined for mechanical performance, hydration dynamics, hydration products, and microstructure. A cement mix with very fine NCES (specific surface area of 108.76 m2/g) showed a 29.7% enhancement in mechanical strength and refined pore structure while a cement mix with un-grounded calcined soil showed a mechanical loss in comparison to the Control specimen. Delayed and reduced heat release at an early age was observed in a cement paste mixed with NCES. The underlying mechanism was investigated. The results of this work will contribute to the high-quality application of excavation soil waste.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Towards High-Performance Photo-Fenton Degradation of Organic Pollutants with Magnetite-Silver Composites: Synthesis, Catalytic Reactions and In Situ Insights
by
Katia Nchimi Nono, Alexander Vahl and Huayna Terraschke
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100849 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, Fe3O4/Ag magnetite-silver (MSx) nanocomposites were investigated as catalysts for advanced oxidation processes by coupling the plasmonic effect of silver nanoparticles and the ferromagnetism of iron oxide species. A surfactant-free co-precipitation synthesis method yielded pure Fe3
[...] Read more.
In this study, Fe3O4/Ag magnetite-silver (MSx) nanocomposites were investigated as catalysts for advanced oxidation processes by coupling the plasmonic effect of silver nanoparticles and the ferromagnetism of iron oxide species. A surfactant-free co-precipitation synthesis method yielded pure Fe3O4 magnetite and four types of MSx nanocomposites. Their characterisation included structural, compositional, morphological and optical analyses, revealing Fe3O4 magnetite and Ag silver phases with particle sizes ranging from 15 to 40 nm, increasing with the silver content. The heterostructures with silver reduced magnetite particle aggregation, as confirmed by dynamic light scattering. The UV–Vis spectra showed that the Fe:Ag ratio strongly influenced the absorbance, with a strong absorption band around 400 nm due to the silver phase. The oxidation kinetics of organic pollutants, monitored by in situ luminescence measurements using rhodamine B as a model system, demonstrated the higher performance of the developed catalysts with increasing Ag content. The specific surface area measurements highlighted the importance of active sites in the synergistic catalytic activity of Fe3O4/Ag nanocomposites in the photo-Fenton reaction. Finally, the straightforward fabrication of diverse Fe3O4/Ag heterostructures combining magnetism and plasmonic effects opens up promising possibilities for heterogeneous catalysis and environmental remediation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanomaterials for Energy Conversion and Environmental Catalysis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Ag-Incorporated Cr-Doped BaTiO3 Aerogel toward Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange
by
Jun Wu, Gaofeng Shao, Xiaodong Wu, Sheng Cui and Xiaodong Shen
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100848 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
A novel Cr-doped BaTiO3 aerogel was successfully synthesized using a co-gelation technique that involves two metallic alkoxides and a supercritical drying method. This freshly prepared aerogel has a high specific surface area of over 100 m2/g and exhibits improved responsiveness
[...] Read more.
A novel Cr-doped BaTiO3 aerogel was successfully synthesized using a co-gelation technique that involves two metallic alkoxides and a supercritical drying method. This freshly prepared aerogel has a high specific surface area of over 100 m2/g and exhibits improved responsiveness to the simulated sunlight spectrum. Methyl orange (MO) was chosen as the simulated pollutant, and the results reveal that the Cr-doped BaTiO3 aerogel, when modified with the noble metal silver (Ag), achieves a pollutant removal rate approximately 3.2 times higher than that of the commercially available P25, reaching up to 92% within 60 min. The excellent photocatalytic performance of the Ag-modified Cr-doped BaTiO3 aerogel can be primarily attributed to its extensive specific surface area and three-dimensional porous architecture. Furthermore, the incorporation of Ag nanoparticles effectively suppresses the recombination of photo-generated electrons and holes. Stability and reusability tests have confirmed the reliability of the Ag-modified Cr-doped BaTiO3 aerogel. Therefore, this material emerges as a highly promising candidate for the treatment of textile wastewater.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Aerogel Composites)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Preparations and Thermal Properties of PDMS-AlN-Al2O3 Composites through the Incorporation of Poly(Catechol-Amine)-Modified Boron Nitride Nanotubes
by
Arni Gesselle Pornea, Duy Khoe Dinh, Zahid Hanif, Numan Yanar, Ki-In Choi, Min Seok Kwak and Jaewoo Kim
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100847 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
As one of the emerging nanomaterials, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) provide promising opportunities for diverse applications due to their unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity, immense inertness, and high-temperature durability, while the instability of BNNTs due to their high surface induces agglomerates
[...] Read more.
As one of the emerging nanomaterials, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) provide promising opportunities for diverse applications due to their unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity, immense inertness, and high-temperature durability, while the instability of BNNTs due to their high surface induces agglomerates susceptible to the loss of their advantages. Therefore, the proper functionalization of BNNTs is crucial to highlight their fundamental characteristics. Herein, a simplistic low-cost approach of BNNT surface modification through catechol-polyamine (CAPA) interfacial polymerization is postulated to improve its dispersibility on the polymeric matrix. The modified BNNT was assimilated as a filler additive with AlN/Al2O3 filling materials in a PDMS polymeric matrix to prepare a thermal interface material (TIM). The resulting composite exhibits a heightened isotropic thermal conductivity of 8.10 W/mK, which is a ~47.27% increase compared to pristine composite 5.50 W/mK, and this can be ascribed to the improved BNNT dispersion forming interconnected phonon pathways and the thermal interface resistance reduction due to its augmented compatibility with the polymeric matrix. Moreover, the fabricated composite manifests a fire resistance improvement of ~10% in LOI relative to the neat composite sample, which can be correlated to the thermal stability shift in the TGA and DTA data. An enhancement in thermal permanence is stipulated due to a melting point (Tm) shift of ∼38.5 °C upon the integration of BNNT-CAPA. This improvement can be associated with the good distribution and adhesion of BNNT-CAPA in the polymeric matrix, integrated with its inherent thermal stability, good charring capability, and free radical scavenging effect due to the presence of CAPA on its surface. This study offers new insights into BNNT utilization and its corresponding incorporation into the polymeric matrix, which provides a prospective direction in the preparation of multifunctional materials for electric devices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermally Conductive Nanomaterials and Their Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Production of PEGylated Vancomycin-Loaded Niosomes by a Continuous Supercritical CO2 Assisted Process
by
Lucia Baldino, Domenico Riccardi and Ernesto Reverchon
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100846 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Niosomes are arousing significant interest thanks to their low cost, high biocompatibility, and negligible toxicity. In this work, a supercritical CO2-assisted process was performed at 100 bar and 40 °C to produce niosomes at different Span 80/Tween 80 weight ratios. The
[...] Read more.
Niosomes are arousing significant interest thanks to their low cost, high biocompatibility, and negligible toxicity. In this work, a supercritical CO2-assisted process was performed at 100 bar and 40 °C to produce niosomes at different Span 80/Tween 80 weight ratios. The formulation of cholesterol and 80:20 Span 80/Tween 80 was selected to encapsulate vancomycin, used as a model active compound, to perform a drug release rate comparison between PEGylated and non-PEGylated niosomes. In both cases, nanometric vesicles were obtained, i.e., 214 ± 59 nm and 254 ± 73 nm for non-PEGylated and PEGylated niosomes, respectively, that were characterized by a high drug encapsulation efficiency (95% for non-PEGylated and 98% for PEGylated niosomes). However, only PEGylated niosomes were able to prolong the vancomycin release time up to 20-fold with respect to untreated drug powder, resulting in a powerful strategy to control the drug release rate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosomes in Precision Nanomedicine)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Progress in Advanced Infrared Optoelectronic Sensors
by
Xiang Yu, Yun Ji, Xinyi Shen and Xiaoyun Le
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100845 (registering DOI) - 12 May 2024
Abstract
Infrared optoelectronic sensors have attracted considerable research interest over the past few decades due to their wide-ranging applications in military, healthcare, environmental monitoring, industrial inspection, and human–computer interaction systems. A comprehensive understanding of infrared optoelectronic sensors is of great importance for achieving their
[...] Read more.
Infrared optoelectronic sensors have attracted considerable research interest over the past few decades due to their wide-ranging applications in military, healthcare, environmental monitoring, industrial inspection, and human–computer interaction systems. A comprehensive understanding of infrared optoelectronic sensors is of great importance for achieving their future optimization. This paper comprehensively reviews the recent advancements in infrared optoelectronic sensors. Firstly, their working mechanisms are elucidated. Then, the key metrics for evaluating an infrared optoelectronic sensor are introduced. Subsequently, an overview of promising materials and nanostructures for high-performance infrared optoelectronic sensors, along with the performances of state-of-the-art devices, is presented. Finally, the challenges facing infrared optoelectronic sensors are posed, and some perspectives for the optimization of infrared optoelectronic sensors are discussed, thereby paving the way for the development of future infrared optoelectronic sensors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Composites, Nanophotonics and Metamaterials)
Open AccessArticle
Study on the Synthesis of Nano Zinc Oxide Particles under Supercritical Hydrothermal Conditions
by
Panpan Sun, Zhaobin Lv and Chuanjiang Sun
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 844; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100844 (registering DOI) - 12 May 2024
Abstract
The supercritical hydrothermal synthesis of nanomaterials has gained significant attention due to its straightforward operation and the excellent performance of the resulting products. In this study, the supercritical hydrothermal method was used with Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O as the precursor
[...] Read more.
The supercritical hydrothermal synthesis of nanomaterials has gained significant attention due to its straightforward operation and the excellent performance of the resulting products. In this study, the supercritical hydrothermal method was used with Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O as the precursor and deionized water and ethanol as the solvent. Nano-ZnO was synthesized under different reaction temperatures (300~500 °C), reaction times (5~15 min), reaction pressures (22~30 MPa), precursor concentrations (0.1~0.5 mol/L), and ratios of precursor to organic solvent (C2H5OH) (2:1~1:4). The effects of synthesis conditions on the morphology and size of ZnO were studied. It was found that properly increasing hydrothermal temperature and pressure and extending the hydrothermal time are conducive to the more regular morphology and smaller size of ZnO particles, which is mainly achieved through the change of reaction conditions affecting the hydrothermal reaction rate. Moreover, the addition of ethanol makes the morphology of nano-zno more regular and significantly inhibits the agglomeration phenomenon. In addition to the change in physical properties of the solvent, this may also be related to the chemical bond established between ethanol and ZnO. The results show that the optimum synthesis conditions of ZnO are 450 °C, 26 MPa, 0.3 mol/L, 10 min, and the molar ratio of precursor to ethanol is 1:3.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nanoparticles: 2nd Edition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Construction of Inverse−Opal ZnIn2S4 with Well−Defined 3D Porous Structure for Enhancing Photocatalytic H2 Production
by
Yiyi Xie, Zhaohui Wu, Sifan Qi, Jiajun Luo, Shuang Pi, Huanghua Xu, Shumin Zhang, Difa Xu, Shiying Zhang and Xianfeng Yang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100843 (registering DOI) - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The conversion of solar energy into hydrogen using photocatalysts is a pivotal solution to the ongoing energy and environmental challenges. In this study, inverse opal (IO) ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) with varying pore sizes is synthesized for the first time via a
[...] Read more.
The conversion of solar energy into hydrogen using photocatalysts is a pivotal solution to the ongoing energy and environmental challenges. In this study, inverse opal (IO) ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) with varying pore sizes is synthesized for the first time via a template method. The experimental results indicate that the constructed inverse opal ZnIn2S4 has a unique photonic bandgap, and its slow photon effect can enhance the interaction between light and matter, thereby improving the efficiency of light utilization. ZnIn2S4 with voids of 200 nm (ZIS−200) achieved the highest hydrogen production rate of 14.32 μ mol h−1. The normalized rate with a specific surface area is five times higher than that of the broken structures (B−ZIS), as the red edge of ZIS−200 is coupled with the intrinsic absorption edge of the ZIS. This study not only developed an approach for constructing inverse opal multi−metallic sulfides, but also provides a new strategy for enriching efficient ZnIn2S4−based photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution from water.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoscale Materials as Catalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction)
Open AccessArticle
Hardness Distribution and Growth Behavior of Micro-Arc Oxide Ceramic Film with Positive and Negative Pulse Coordination
by
Haomin Li, Shiqin Kong, Zhiming Liu, Zhenxing Wang and Yingsan Geng
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100842 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) is a promising technology for enhancing the wear resistance of engine cylinders by growing a high hardness alumina ceramic film on the surface of light aluminum engine cylinders. However, the positive and negative pulse coordination, voltage characteristic signal, hardness distribution
[...] Read more.
Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) is a promising technology for enhancing the wear resistance of engine cylinders by growing a high hardness alumina ceramic film on the surface of light aluminum engine cylinders. However, the positive and negative pulse coordination, voltage characteristic signal, hardness distribution characteristics of the ceramic film, and their internal mechanism during the growth process are still unclear. This paper investigates the synergistic effect mechanism of cathodic and anodic current on the growth behaviour of alumina, dynamic voltage signal, and hardness distribution of micro-arc oxidation film. Ceramic film samples were fabricated under various conditions, including current densities of 10, 12, 14, and 16 A/dm2, and current density ratios of cathode and anode of 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3, respectively. Based on the observed characteristics of the process voltage curve and the spark signal changes, the growth of the ceramic film can be divided into five stages. The influence of positive and negative current density parameters on the segmented growth process of the ceramic film is mainly reflected in the transition time, voltage variation rate, and the voltage value of different growth stages. Enhancing the cathode pulse effect or increasing the current density level can effectively shorten the transition time and accelerate the voltage drop rate. The microhardness of the ceramic film cross-section presents a discontinuous soft-hard-soft regional distribution. Multiple thermal cycles lead to a gradient differentiation of the Al2O3 crystal phase transition ratio along the thickness direction of the layer. The layer grown on the outer surface of the initial substrate exhibits the highest hardness, with a small gradient change in hardness, forming a high hardness zone approximately 20–30 μm wide. This high hardness zone extends to both sides, with hardness decreasing rapidly.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Synergistic Effect of ZIF-8 and Pt-Functionalized NiO/In2O3 Hollow Nanofibers for Highly Sensitive Detection of Formaldehyde
by
Lei Zhu, Ze Wang, Jianan Wang, Jianwei Liu, Wei Zhao, Jiaxin Zhang and Wei Yan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 841; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100841 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
A rapid and accurate monitoring of hazardous formaldehyde (HCHO) gas is extremely essential for health protection. However, the high-power consumption and humidity interference still hinder the application of HCHO gas sensors. Hence, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)-loaded Pt-NiO/In2O3 hollow nanofibers (ZPNiIn
[...] Read more.
A rapid and accurate monitoring of hazardous formaldehyde (HCHO) gas is extremely essential for health protection. However, the high-power consumption and humidity interference still hinder the application of HCHO gas sensors. Hence, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)-loaded Pt-NiO/In2O3 hollow nanofibers (ZPNiIn HNFs) were designed via the electrospinning technique followed by hydrothermal treatment, aiming to enable a synergistic advantage of the surface modification and the construction of a p-n heterostructure to improve the sensing performance of the HCHO gas sensor. The ZPNiIn HNF sensor has a response value of 52.8 to 100 ppm HCHO, a nearly 4-fold enhancement over a pristine In2O3 sensor, at a moderately low temperature of 180 °C, along with rapid response/recovery speed (8/17 s) and excellent humidity tolerance. These enhanced sensing properties can be attributed to the Pt catalysts boosting the catalytic activity, the p-n heterojunctions facilitating the chemical reaction, and the appropriate ZIF-8 loading providing a hydrophobic surface. Our research presents an effective sensing material design strategy for inspiring the development of cost-effective sensors for the accurate detection of indoor HCHO hazardous gas.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoscale Material-Based Gas Sensors)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Encapsulation of Tenebrio molitor Hydrolysate with DPP-IV Inhibitory Activity by Electrospraying and Spray-Drying
by
Carmen Berraquero-García, Lydia Martínez-Sánchez, Emilia M. Guadix and Pedro J. García-Moreno
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100840 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the encapsulation of Tenebrio molitor hydrolysate exhibiting DPP-IV inhibitory activity by spray-drying and electrospraying techniques. First, we optimized the feed formulation and processing conditions required to obtain nano-microcapsules by electrospraying when using Arabic gum as an encapsulating agent and pullulan
[...] Read more.
This study investigates the encapsulation of Tenebrio molitor hydrolysate exhibiting DPP-IV inhibitory activity by spray-drying and electrospraying techniques. First, we optimized the feed formulation and processing conditions required to obtain nano-microcapsules by electrospraying when using Arabic gum as an encapsulating agent and pullulan and Tween 20 as additives. The optimum formulation was also dried by spray-drying, where the removal of the additives was also assayed. Morphology analysis reveals that electrosprayed capsules have a smaller size (1.2 ± 0.5 µm vs. 12.4 ± 8.7 µm) and greater uniformity compared to those obtained by spray-drying. Regarding the surface nitrogen content and DPP-IV inhibitory activity, our results show no significant difference between the electrosprayed capsules and spray-dried capsules containing additives (IC50 of ~1.5 mg protein/mL). Therefore, it was concluded that adding additives during spray-drying allows for a similar encapsulation efficiency and reduced degradation during processing, as achieved by electrospraying technique but providing higher productivity. On the other hand, spray-dried capsules without additives displayed a higher surface nitrogen content percentage, which was mainly due to the absence of Tween 20 in the feed formulation. Consequently, these capsules presented a higher IC50 value (IC50 of 1.99 ± 0.03 mg protein/mL) due to the potential degradation of surface-exposed peptides.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-, Submicro- and Micro-Encapsulation of Bioactive Compounds with Applications in Food and Agriculture)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
A Systematic Study of the Temperature Dependence of the Dielectric Function of GaSe Uniaxial Crystals from 27 to 300 K
by
Long V. Le, Tien-Thanh Nguyen, Xuan Au Nguyen, Do Duc Cuong, Thi Huong Nguyen, Van Quang Nguyen, Sunglae Cho, Young Dong Kim and Tae Jung Kim
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100839 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
We report the temperature dependences of the dielectric function ε = ε1 + iε2 and critical point (CP) energies of the uniaxial crystal GaSe in the spectral energy region from 0.74 to 6.42 eV and at temperatures from 27 to
[...] Read more.
We report the temperature dependences of the dielectric function ε = ε1 + iε2 and critical point (CP) energies of the uniaxial crystal GaSe in the spectral energy region from 0.74 to 6.42 eV and at temperatures from 27 to 300 K using spectroscopic ellipsometry. The fundamental bandgap and strong exciton effect near 2.1 eV are detected only in the c-direction, which is perpendicular to the cleavage plane of the crystal. The temperature dependences of the CP energies were determined by fitting the data to the phenomenological expression that incorporates the Bose–Einstein statistical factor and the temperature coefficient to describe the electron–phonon interaction. To determine the origin of this anisotropy, we perform first-principles calculations using the mBJ method for bandgap correction. The results clearly demonstrate that the anisotropic dielectric characteristics can be directly attributed to the inherent anisotropy of p orbitals. More specifically, this prominent excitonic feature and fundamental bandgap are derived from the band-to-band transition between s and pz orbitals at the Γ-point.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Optical and Optoelectronic Properties of Materials and Their Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Synthesis of Structure-Adjustable R-Au/Pt-CdS Nanohybrids with Strong Plasmon Coupling and Improved Photothermal Conversion Performance
by
Hangyu Yan, Guowei Li, Fengyuan Zhang, Jingsong Liu and Mengdai Luoshan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(10), 838; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14100838 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Noble metal nanomaterials with a localized surface plasmon resonance effect exhibit outstanding advantages in areas such as photothermal therapy and photocatalysis. As a unique plasmonic metal nanostructure, gold nanobipyramids have been attracting much interest due to their strong specific local electric field intensity,
[...] Read more.
Noble metal nanomaterials with a localized surface plasmon resonance effect exhibit outstanding advantages in areas such as photothermal therapy and photocatalysis. As a unique plasmonic metal nanostructure, gold nanobipyramids have been attracting much interest due to their strong specific local electric field intensity, large optical cross sections, and high refractive index sensitivity. In this study, we propose a novel three-component hetero-nanostructure composed of rough gold nanobipyramids (R-Au NBPs), Pt, and CdS. Initially, purified gold nanobipyramids are regrown to form R-Au NBPs that have a certain degree of roughness. These R-Au NBP substrates with a rough surface provide more hotspots and strengthen the intensity of localized electric fields. Subsequently, Pt and CdS nanoparticles are selectively deposited onto the surface of R-Au NBPs. Pt nanoparticles can provide more active sites. Each component of this hetero-nanostructure directly contacts others, creating multiple electron transfer channels. This novel design allows for tunable localized plasmon resonance wavelengths ranging from the visible to near-infrared regions. These factors contribute to the final superior photothermal conversion performance of the R-Au/Pt-CdS nanohybrids. Under the irradiation of near-infrared light (1064 nm), the photothermal conversion efficiency of R-Au/Pt-CdS reached 38.88%, which is 4.49, 1.5, and 1.22 times higher than that of Au NBPs, R-Au NBPs, and R-Au NBPs/Pt, respectively.
Full article
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
Topics
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
Topic in
Cancers, Cells, JCM, Radiation, Pharmaceutics, Applied Sciences, Nanomaterials, Current Oncology
Innovative Radiation Therapies
Topic Editors: Gérard Baldacchino, Eric Deutsch, Marie Dutreix, Sandrine Lacombe, Erika Porcel, Charlotte Robert, Emmanuelle Bourneuf, João Santos Sousa, Aurélien de la LandeDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Catalysts, Coatings, Crystals, Energies, Materials, Nanomaterials
Interfacial Bonding Design and Applications in Structural and Functional Materials
Topic Editors: Junlei Qi, Pengcheng Wang, Yaotian YanDeadline: 20 July 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Applications of Nanomaterials in Biomedical Imaging and Cancer Therapy II
Guest Editor: James ChowDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Hierarchical Nanostructured Materials for Multifunctional Applications
Guest Editor: Xusheng DuDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Transmission Electron Microscopy for Nanomaterials Research Advances
Guest Editors: Antonietta Taurino, Elvio CarlinoDeadline: 10 June 2024
Special Issue in
Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials for Terahertz Technology Applications
Guest Editors: Xunjun He, Ying ZhangDeadline: 30 June 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: Sridhar Chandrasekaran, Firman Simanjuntak, Yao-Feng Chang