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Nanomaterials
Volume 14
Issue 8
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Nanomaterials, Volume 14, Issue 8 (April-2 2024) – 83 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Fungal eye infections are responsible for half a million blindness cases each year worldwide, and current treatments require frequent application of the antifungal drug Natamycin, one of the most powerful antimycotic agents known today. Despite its strength, Natamycin has very low water solubility and bioavailability. Encapsulating this drug in lipid-based nanosystems could improve its permeation through the cornea and effectiveness against infections. Our work focuses on the physiochemical and supramolecular characterization of three newly synthesized lipid-based nanosystems, and their comparison in terms of structure, dimensions and encapsulation efficiency. View this paper
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15 pages, 11880 KiB  
Article
Epitaxial Growth of GaN Films on Chemical-Vapor-Deposited 2D MoS2 Layers by Plasma-Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy
by Iwan Susanto, Hong-Shan Liu, Yen-Ten Ho and Ing-Song Yu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080732 - 22 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1759
Abstract
The van der Waals epitaxy of wafer-scale GaN on 2D MoS2 and the integration of GaN/MoS2 heterostructures were investigated in this report. GaN films have been successfully grown on 2D MoS2 layers using three different Ga fluxes via a plasma-assisted [...] Read more.
The van der Waals epitaxy of wafer-scale GaN on 2D MoS2 and the integration of GaN/MoS2 heterostructures were investigated in this report. GaN films have been successfully grown on 2D MoS2 layers using three different Ga fluxes via a plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE) system. The substrate for the growth was a few-layer 2D MoS2 deposited on sapphire using chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Three different Ga fluxes were provided by the gallium source of the K-cell at temperatures of 825, 875, and 925 °C, respectively. After the growth, RHEED, HR-XRD, and TEM were conducted to study the crystal structure of GaN films. The surface morphology was obtained using FE-SEM and AFM. Chemical composition was confirmed by XPS and EDS. Raman and PL spectra were carried out to investigate the optical properties of GaN films. According to the characterizations of GaN films, the van der Waals epitaxial growth mechanism of GaN films changed from 3D to 2D with the increase in Ga flux, provided by higher temperatures of the K-cell. GaN films grown at 750 °C for 3 h with a K-cell temperature of 925 °C demonstrated the greatest crystal quality, chemical composition, and optical properties. The heterostructure of 3D GaN on 2D MoS2 was integrated successfully using the low-temperature PA-MBE technique, which could be applied to novel electronics and optoelectronics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue III-Nitride Semiconductors: Design, Characterization, Applications, and Devices)
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21 pages, 6226 KiB  
Article
Fluoride Removal Using Nanofiltration-Ranged Polyamide Thin-Film Nanocomposite Membrane Incorporated Titanium Oxide Nanosheets
by Fekri Abdulraqeb Ahmed Ali, Javed Alam, Saif M. H. Qaid, Arun Kumar Shukla, Ahmed S. Al-Fatesh, Ahmad M. Alghamdi, Farid Fadhillah, Ahmed I. Osman and Mansour Alhoshan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080731 - 22 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1372
Abstract
Drinking water defluoridation has attracted significant attention in the scientific community, from which membrane technology, by exploring thin film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes, has demonstrated a great potential for treating fluoride-contaminated water. This study investigates the development of a TFN membrane by integrating titanium [...] Read more.
Drinking water defluoridation has attracted significant attention in the scientific community, from which membrane technology, by exploring thin film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes, has demonstrated a great potential for treating fluoride-contaminated water. This study investigates the development of a TFN membrane by integrating titanium oxide nanosheets (TiO2 NSs) into the polyamide (PA) layer using interfacial polymerization. The characterization results suggest that successfully incorporating TiO2 NSs into the PA layer of the TFN membrane led to a surface with a high negative charge, hydrophilic properties, and a smooth surface at the nanoscale. The TFN membrane, containing 80 ppm of TiO2 NSs, demonstrated a notably high fluoride rejection rate of 98%. The Donnan-steric-pore-model-dielectric-exclusion model was employed to analyze the effect of embedding TiO2 NSs into the PA layer of TFN on membrane properties, including charge density (Xd), the pore radius (rp), and pore dielectric constant (εp). The results indicated that embedding TiO2 NSs increased Xd and decreased the εp by less than the TFC membrane without significantly affecting the rp. The resulting TFN membrane demonstrates promising potential for application in water treatment systems, providing an effective and sustainable solution for fluoride remediation in drinking water. Full article
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23 pages, 4941 KiB  
Review
Regeneration in Mice of Injured Skin, Heart, and Spinal Cord by α-Gal Nanoparticles Recapitulates Regeneration in Amphibians
by Uri Galili, Jianming Li and Gary L. Schaer
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080730 - 22 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1623
Abstract
The healing of skin wounds, myocardial, and spinal cord injuries in salamander, newt, and axolotl amphibians, and in mouse neonates, results in scar-free regeneration, whereas injuries in adult mice heal by fibrosis and scar formation. Although both types of healing are mediated by [...] Read more.
The healing of skin wounds, myocardial, and spinal cord injuries in salamander, newt, and axolotl amphibians, and in mouse neonates, results in scar-free regeneration, whereas injuries in adult mice heal by fibrosis and scar formation. Although both types of healing are mediated by macrophages, regeneration in these amphibians and in mouse neonates also involves innate activation of the complement system. These differences suggest that localized complement activation in adult mouse injuries might induce regeneration instead of the default fibrosis and scar formation. Localized complement activation is feasible by antigen/antibody interaction between biodegradable nanoparticles presenting α-gal epitopes (α-gal nanoparticles) and the natural anti-Gal antibody which is abundant in humans. Administration of α-gal nanoparticles into injuries of anti-Gal-producing adult mice results in localized complement activation which induces rapid and extensive macrophage recruitment. These macrophages bind anti-Gal-coated α-gal nanoparticles and polarize into M2 pro-regenerative macrophages that orchestrate accelerated scar-free regeneration of skin wounds and regeneration of myocardium injured by myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, injection of α-gal nanoparticles into spinal cord injuries of anti-Gal-producing adult mice induces recruitment of M2 macrophages, that mediate extensive angiogenesis and axonal sprouting, which reconnects between proximal and distal severed axons. Thus, α-gal nanoparticle treatment in adult mice mimics physiologic regeneration in amphibians. These studies further suggest that α-gal nanoparticles may be of significance in the treatment of human injuries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Biomaterials in Tissue Engineering: Fabrication and Application)
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22 pages, 4819 KiB  
Article
Plant-Mediated Synthesis of Magnetite Nanoparticles with Matricaria chamomilla Aqueous Extract
by Andrea Paut, Lucija Guć, Martina Vrankić, Doris Crnčević, Pavla Šenjug, Damir Pajić, Renata Odžak, Matilda Šprung, Kristian Nakić, Marijan Marciuš, Ante Prkić and Ivana Mitar
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080729 - 22 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1778
Abstract
Magnetite nanoparticles (NPs) possess properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. In recent years, interest in the synthesis of magnetite NPs and their surface functionalization has increased significantly, especially regarding their application in biomedicine such as for controlled and [...] Read more.
Magnetite nanoparticles (NPs) possess properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. In recent years, interest in the synthesis of magnetite NPs and their surface functionalization has increased significantly, especially regarding their application in biomedicine such as for controlled and targeted drug delivery. There are several conventional methods for preparing magnetite NPs, all of which mostly utilize Fe(iii) and Fe(ii) salt precursors. In this study, we present a microwave hydrothermal synthesis for the precipitation of magnetite NPs at temperatures of 200 °C for 20 min and 260 °C for 5 min, with only iron(iii) as a precursor utilizing chamomile flower extract as a stabilizing, capping, and reducing agent. Products were characterized using FTIR, PXRD, SEM, and magnetometry. Our analysis revealed significant differences in the properties of magnetite NPs prepared with this approach, and the conventional two-precursor hydrothermal microwave method (sample MagH). FTIR and PXRD analyses confirmed coated magnetite particles. The temperature and magnetic-field dependence of magnetization indicate their superparamagnetic behavior. Importantly, the results of our study show the noticeable cytotoxicity of coated magnetite NPs—toxic to carcinoma cells but harmless to healthy cells—further emphasizing the potential of these NPs for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Nanomaterials in Green Analytical Chemistry)
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16 pages, 4368 KiB  
Article
Efficient Production of Self-Assembled Bioconjugate Nanovaccines against Klebsiella pneumoniae O2 Serotype in Engineered Escherichia coli
by Yan Zhang, Peng Sun, Ting Li, Juntao Li, Jingqin Ye, Xiang Li, Jun Wu, Ying Lu, Li Zhu, Hengliang Wang and Chao Pan
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080728 - 21 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1829
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) have been surfacing as a pivotal platform for vaccine development. In our previous work, we developed a cholera toxin B subunit (CTB)-based self-assembled nanoparticle (CNP) and produced highly promising bioconjugate nanovaccines by loading bacterial polysaccharide (OPS) in vivo. In particular, the [...] Read more.
Nanoparticles (NPs) have been surfacing as a pivotal platform for vaccine development. In our previous work, we developed a cholera toxin B subunit (CTB)-based self-assembled nanoparticle (CNP) and produced highly promising bioconjugate nanovaccines by loading bacterial polysaccharide (OPS) in vivo. In particular, the Klebsiella pneumoniae O2 serotype vaccine showcased a potent immune response and protection against infection. However, extremely low yields limited its further application. In this study, we prepared an efficient Klebsiella pneumoniae bioconjugate nanovaccine in Escherichia coli with a very high yield. By modifying the 33rd glycine (G) in the CNP to aspartate (D), we were able to observe a dramatically increased expression of glycoprotein. Subsequently, through a series of mutations, we determined that G33D was essential to increasing production. In addition, this increase only occurred in engineered E. coli but not in the natural host K. pneumoniae strain 355 (Kp355) expressing OPSKpO2. Next, T-cell epitopes were fused at the end of the CNP(G33D), and animal experiments showed that fusion of the M51 peptide induced high antibody titers, consistent with the levels of the original nanovaccine, CNP-OPSKpO2. Hence, we provide an effective approach for the high-yield production of K. pneumoniae bioconjugate nanovaccines and guidance for uncovering glycosylation mechanisms and refining glycosylation systems. Full article
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14 pages, 9071 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effect of He for the Fabrication of Ne and Ar Gas-Charged Silicon Thin Films as Solid Targets for Spectroscopic Studies
by Asunción Fernández, Vanda Godinho, José Ávila, M. Carmen Jiménez de Haro, Dirk Hufschmidt, Jennifer López-Viejobueno, G. Eduardo Almanza-Vergara, F. Javier Ferrer, Julien L. Colaux, Stephane Lucas and M. Carmen Asensio
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080727 - 21 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1120
Abstract
Sputtering of silicon in a He magnetron discharge (MS) has been reported as a bottom-up procedure to obtain He-charged silicon films (i.e., He nanobubbles encapsulated in a silicon matrix). The incorporation of heavier noble gases is demonstrated in this work with a synergistic [...] Read more.
Sputtering of silicon in a He magnetron discharge (MS) has been reported as a bottom-up procedure to obtain He-charged silicon films (i.e., He nanobubbles encapsulated in a silicon matrix). The incorporation of heavier noble gases is demonstrated in this work with a synergistic effect, producing increased Ne and Ar incorporations when using He–Ne and He–Ar gas mixtures in the MS process. Microstructural and chemical characterizations are reported using ion beam analysis (IBA) and scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM and TEM). In addition to gas incorporation, He promotes the formation of larger nanobubbles. In the case of Ne, high-resolution X-ray photoelectron and absorption spectroscopies (XPS and XAS) are reported, with remarkable dependence of the Ne 1s photoemission and the Ne K-edge absorption on the nanobubble’s size and composition. The gas (He, Ne and Ar)-charged thin films are proposed as “solid” targets for the characterization of spectroscopic properties of noble gases in a confined state without the need for cryogenics or high-pressure anvils devices. Also, their use as targets for nuclear reaction studies is foreseen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Coatings with Nanostructures: Synthesis, Characterizations and Applications)
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13 pages, 2310 KiB  
Article
Physiochemical Characterization of Lipidic Nanoformulations Encapsulating the Antifungal Drug Natamycin
by Luigi Talarico, Ilaria Clemente, Alessandro Gennari, Giulia Gabbricci, Simone Pepi, Gemma Leone, Claudia Bonechi, Claudio Rossi, Simone Luca Mattioli, Nicola Detta and Agnese Magnani
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080726 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1727
Abstract
Natamycin is a tetraene polyene that exploits its antifungal properties by irreversibly binding components of fungal cell walls, blocking the growth of infections. However, topical ocular treatments with natamycin require frequent application due to the low ability of this molecule to permeate the [...] Read more.
Natamycin is a tetraene polyene that exploits its antifungal properties by irreversibly binding components of fungal cell walls, blocking the growth of infections. However, topical ocular treatments with natamycin require frequent application due to the low ability of this molecule to permeate the ocular membrane. This limitation has limited the use of natamycin as an antimycotic drug, despite it being one of the most powerful known antimycotic agents. In this work, different lipidic nanoformulations consisting of transethosomes or lipid nanoparticles containing natamycin are proposed as carriers for optical topical administration. Size, stability and zeta potential were characterized via dynamic light scattering, the supramolecular structure was investigated via small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering and 1H-NMR, and the encapsulation efficiencies of the four proposed formulations were determined via HPLC-DAD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pharmaceutical Applications of Lipid-Based Nanoparticles)
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26 pages, 7016 KiB  
Article
Structural and Morphological Studies of Pt in the As-Grown and Encapsulated States and Dependency on Film Thickness
by Berkin Nergis, Sondes Bauer, Xiaowei Jin, Lukas Horak, Reinhard Schneider, Vaclav Holy, Klaus Seemann, Sven Ulrich and Tilo Baumbach
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080725 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1340
Abstract
The morphology and crystal structure of Pt films grown by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)at high temperatures Tg = 900 °C was studied for four different film thicknesses varying between 10 and 70 nm. During the subsequent growth of the [...] Read more.
The morphology and crystal structure of Pt films grown by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)at high temperatures Tg = 900 °C was studied for four different film thicknesses varying between 10 and 70 nm. During the subsequent growth of the capping layer, the thermal stability of the Pt was strongly influenced by the Pt film’s thickness. Furthermore, these later affected the film morphology, the crystal structure and hillocks size, and distribution during subsequent growth at Tg = 900 °C for a long duration. The modifications in the morphology as well as in the structure of the Pt film without a capping layer, named also as the as-grown and encapsulated layers in the bilayer system, were examined by a combination of microscopic and scattering methods. The increase in the thickness of the deposited Pt film brought three competitive phenomena into occurrence, such as 3D–2D morphological transition, dewetting, and hillock formation. The degree of coverage, film continuity, and the crystal quality of the Pt film were significantly improved by increasing the deposition time. An optimum Pt film thickness of 70 nm was found to be suitable for obtaining a hillock-free Pt bottom electrode which also withstood the dewetting phenomena revealed during the subsequent growth of capping layers. This achievement is crucial for the deposition of functional bottom electrodes in ferroelectric and multiferroic heterostructure systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Laser Processing of Metallic Materials)
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16 pages, 3384 KiB  
Article
Clinical Efficacy in Skin Hydration and Reducing Wrinkles of Nanoemulsions Containing Macadamia integrifolia Seed Oil
by Suvimol Somwongin and Wantida Chaiyana
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080724 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1521
Abstract
This study aimed to assess natural oils for their antioxidant and anti-hyaluronidase properties and select the most effective candidate for development into nanoemulsions (NE) for clinical evaluations. The oils were assessed using 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+) and ferric thiocyanate assays for antioxidant [...] Read more.
This study aimed to assess natural oils for their antioxidant and anti-hyaluronidase properties and select the most effective candidate for development into nanoemulsions (NE) for clinical evaluations. The oils were assessed using 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+) and ferric thiocyanate assays for antioxidant properties and an enzyme-substrate reaction assay for anti-hyaluronidase activity. The most potent oil was formulated into conventional emulsions (CE) and NE, which were characterized and evaluated for their stability, both in accelerated and long-term conditions. The irritation potential was assessed using both the hen’s eggs chorioallantoic membrane test and a clinical trial. Skin hydration enhancement and skin wrinkle reduction efficacy were clinically assessed. Macadamia integrifolia oil exhibited significant potency as an ABTS•+ radical scavenger, lipid peroxidation inhibitor, and hyaluronidase inhibitor (p < 0.05). Both the CE and NE, comprising 15% w/w oil, 5% w/w Tween® 80 and Span® 80, and 80% w/w DI water, were found to be optimal. NE with an internal droplet size of 112.4 ± 0.8 nm, polydispersity index of 0.17 ± 0.01, and zeta potential of −31.5 ± 1.0 mV, had good stability and induced no irritation. Both CE and NE enhanced skin hydration and reduced skin wrinkles in human volunteers, while NE was outstanding in skin hydration enhancement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro and Nanomaterials in Cosmetics)
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15 pages, 4394 KiB  
Article
Physical Mechanism of Nanocrystalline Composite Deformation Responsible for Fracture Plastic Nature at Cryogenic Temperatures
by Jianyong Qiao, Ivan Vladimirovich Ushakov, Ivan Sergeevich Safronov, Ayur Dasheevich Oshorov, Zhiqiang Wang, Olga Vitalievna Andrukhova and Olga Vladimirovna Rychkova
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080723 - 20 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1071
Abstract
In this work, we consider the physical basis of deformation and fracture in layered composite nanocrystalline/amorphous material–low-melting crystalline alloy in a wide temperature range. Deformation and fracture at the crack tip on the boundary of such materials as nanocrystalline alloy of the trademark [...] Read more.
In this work, we consider the physical basis of deformation and fracture in layered composite nanocrystalline/amorphous material–low-melting crystalline alloy in a wide temperature range. Deformation and fracture at the crack tip on the boundary of such materials as nanocrystalline alloy of the trademark 5BDSR, amorphous alloy of the trademark 82K3XSR and low-melting crystalline alloy were experimentally investigated. The crack was initiated by uniaxial stretching in a temperature range of 77–293 K. A theoretical description of the processes of deformation and fracture at the crack tip is proposed, with the assumption that these processes lead to local heating and ensure the plastic character of crack growth at liquid nitrogen temperatures. The obtained results improve the theoretical understanding of the physics of fracture at the boundary of nanocrystalline and crystalline alloys in a wide temperature range. The possibility of preserving the plastic nature of fracture in a thin boundary layer of crystalline–nanocrystalline material at cryogenic temperatures has been experimentally shown. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fundamental and Applied Aspects of the Physics in Low-Dimensional Systems)
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11 pages, 4865 KiB  
Article
Ultra-Low Thermal Conductivity and Improved Thermoelectric Performance in Tungsten-Doped GeTe
by Zhengtang Cai, Kaipeng Zheng, Chun Ma, Yu Fang, Yuyang Ma, Qinglin Deng and Han Li
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080722 - 20 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1473
Abstract
Compared to SnTe and PbTe base materials, the GeTe matrix exhibits a relatively high Seebeck coefficient and power factor but has garnered significant attention due to its poor thermal transport performance and environmental characteristics. As a typical p-type IV–VI group thermoelectric material, W-doped [...] Read more.
Compared to SnTe and PbTe base materials, the GeTe matrix exhibits a relatively high Seebeck coefficient and power factor but has garnered significant attention due to its poor thermal transport performance and environmental characteristics. As a typical p-type IV–VI group thermoelectric material, W-doped GeTe material can bring additional enhancement to thermoelectric performance. In this study, the introduction of W, Ge1−xWxTe (x = 0, 0.002, 0.005, 0.007, 0.01, 0.03) resulted in the presence of high-valence state atoms, providing additional charge carriers, thereby elevating the material’s power factor to a maximum PFpeak of approximately 43 μW cm−1 K−2, while slightly optimizing the Seebeck coefficient of the solid solution. Moreover, W doping can induce defects and promote slight rhombohedral distortion in the crystal structure of GeTe, further reducing the lattice thermal conductivity κlat to as low as approximately 0.14 W m−1 K−1 (x = 0.002 at 673 K), optimizing it to approximately 85% compared to the GeTe matrix. This led to the formation of a p-type multicomponent composite thermoelectric material with ultra-low thermal conductivity. Ultimately, W doping achieves the comprehensive enhancement of the thermoelectric performance of GeTe base materials, with the peak ZT value of sample Ge0.995W0.005Te reaching approximately 0.99 at 673 K, and the average ZT optimized to 0.76 in the high-temperature range of 573–723 K, representing an increase of approximately 17% compared to pristine GeTe within the same temperature range. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanostructured Electrode Materials: Design and Applications)
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21 pages, 4939 KiB  
Article
Size-Dependent High-Pressure Behavior of Pure and Eu3+-Doped Y2O3 Nanoparticles: Insights from Experimental and Theoretical Investigations
by André Luis de Jesus Pereira, Juan Ángel Sans, Óscar Gomis, David Santamaría-Pérez, Sudeshna Ray, Armstrong Godoy, Jr., Argemiro Soares da Silva-Sobrinho, Plácida Rodríguez-Hernández, Alfonso Muñoz, Catalin Popescu and Francisco Javier Manjón
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080721 - 20 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1199
Abstract
We report a joint high-pressure experimental and theoretical study of the structural, vibrational, and photoluminescent properties of pure and Eu3+-doped cubic Y2O3 nanoparticles with two very different average particle sizes. We compare the results of synchrotron X-ray diffraction, [...] Read more.
We report a joint high-pressure experimental and theoretical study of the structural, vibrational, and photoluminescent properties of pure and Eu3+-doped cubic Y2O3 nanoparticles with two very different average particle sizes. We compare the results of synchrotron X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, and photoluminescence measurements in nanoparticles with ab initio density-functional simulations in bulk material with the aim to understand the influence of the average particle size on the properties of pure and doped Y2O3 nanoparticles under compression. We observe that the high-pressure phase behavior of Y2O3 nanoparticles depends on the average particle size, but in a different way to that previously reported. Nanoparticles with an average particle size of ~37 nm show the same pressure-induced phase transition sequence on upstroke and downstroke as the bulk sample; however, nanoparticles with an average particle size of ~6 nm undergo an irreversible pressure-induced amorphization above 16 GPa that is completed above 24 GPa. On downstroke, 6 nm nanoparticles likely consist of an amorphous phase. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Rare-Earth Functional Nanomaterials)
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13 pages, 13315 KiB  
Article
Self-Powered UV Photodetector Construction of the P(EDOS-TTh) Copolymer-Modified ZnO Nanoarray
by Aygul Kadir, Tursun Abdiryim, Xiong Liu, Ruxangul Jamal and Yaolong Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080720 - 20 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1235
Abstract
To solve the problem that zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO NRs)-based self-powered ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors cannot obtain both higher responsiveness and shorter response time, P(EDOS-TTh) was prepared using 3,4-ethylenedioxyselenphene (EDOS) and terthiophene (TTh) as copolymers, which modify the ZnO NRs surface, and the ZnO/P(EDOS-TTh) [...] Read more.
To solve the problem that zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO NRs)-based self-powered ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors cannot obtain both higher responsiveness and shorter response time, P(EDOS-TTh) was prepared using 3,4-ethylenedioxyselenphene (EDOS) and terthiophene (TTh) as copolymers, which modify the ZnO NRs surface, and the ZnO/P(EDOS-TTh) P-N junction self-powered UV device is assembled. The effect of the number of electrochemical polymerization cycles on the UV photodetection performance of ZnO/P(EDOS-TTh) P-N heterojunction was studied by adjusting the number of electrochemical polymerization cycles at the monomer molar ratio of 1:1. Benefiting from the enhanced built-in electric field of the ZnO/P(EDOS-TTh) interface, balancing photogenerated carriers, and charge separation and transport. The results show that the contact between N-type ZnO NRs and P-type P(EDOS-TTh) is best when the number of polymerization cycles is 3, due to the fact that EDOS-TTh and ZnO NRs form excellent P-N heterojunctions with strong internal electric fields, and the devices show good pyroelectric effect and UV photodetection performance. Under 0 V bias and 0.32 mW/cm2 UV irradiation, the responsivity (R) of ZnO/P(EDOS-TTh) reaches 3.31 mA/W, the detectivity (D*) is 7.25 × 1010 Jones, and the response time is significantly shortened. The rise time is 0.086 s, which exhibited excellent photoelectric properties and stability. UV photodetection performance with high sensitivity and fast response time is achieved. Full article
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12 pages, 6986 KiB  
Article
WO3 Nanoplates Decorated with Au and SnO2 Nanoparticles for Real-Time Detection of Foodborne Pathogens
by Xueyan Li, Zeyi Wu, Xiangyu Song, Denghua Li, Jiajia Liu and Jiatao Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080719 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1337
Abstract
Nowadays, metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors have diverse applications ranging from human health to smart agriculture with the development of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. However, high operating temperatures and an unsatisfactory detection capability (high sensitivity, fast response/recovery speed, etc.) hinder their integration [...] Read more.
Nowadays, metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors have diverse applications ranging from human health to smart agriculture with the development of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. However, high operating temperatures and an unsatisfactory detection capability (high sensitivity, fast response/recovery speed, etc.) hinder their integration into the IoT. Herein, a ternary heterostructure was prepared by decorating WO3 nanoplates with Au and SnO2 nanoparticles through a facial photochemical deposition method. This was employed as a sensing material for 3-hydroxy-2-butanone (3H-2B), a biomarker of Listeria monocytogenes. These Au/SnO2–WO3 nanoplate-based sensors exhibited an excellent response (Ra/Rg = 662) to 25 ppm 3H-2B, which was 24 times higher than that of pure WO3 nanoplates at 140 °C. Moreover, the 3H-2B sensor showed an ultrafast response and recovery speed to 25 ppm 3H-2B as well as high selectivity. These excellent sensing performances could be attributed to the rich Au/SnO2–WO3 active interfaces and the excellent transport of carriers in nanoplates. Furthermore, a wireless portable gas sensor equipped with the Au/SnO2–WO3 nanoplates was assembled, which was tested using 3H-2B with known concentrations to study the possibilities of real-time gas monitoring in food quality and safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Nanosensors in Energy and Environment)
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10 pages, 1683 KiB  
Article
Realization of High Current Gain for Van der Waals MoS2/WSe2/MoS2 Bipolar Junction Transistor
by Zezhang Yan, Ningsheng Xu and Shaozhi Deng
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080718 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1270
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted great attention in the past few years and offer new opportunities for the development of high-performance and multifunctional bipolar junction transistors (BJTs). Here, a van der Waals BJT based on vertically stacked n+-MoS2/WSe2 [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted great attention in the past few years and offer new opportunities for the development of high-performance and multifunctional bipolar junction transistors (BJTs). Here, a van der Waals BJT based on vertically stacked n+-MoS2/WSe2/MoS2 was demonstrated. The electrical performance of the device was investigated under common-base and common-emitter configurations, which show relatively large current gains of α ≈ 0.98 and β ≈ 225. In addition, the breakdown characteristics of the vertically stacked n+-MoS2/WSe2/MoS2 BJT were investigated. An open-emitter base-collector breakdown voltage (BVCBO) of 52.9 V and an open-base collector-emitter breakdown voltage (BVCEO) of 40.3 V were observed under a room-temperature condition. With the increase in the operating temperature, both BVCBO and BVCEO increased. This study demonstrates a promising way to obtain 2D-material-based BJT with high current gains and provides a deep insight into the breakdown characteristics of the device, which may promote the applications of van der Waals BJTs in the fields of integrated circuits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
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15 pages, 2903 KiB  
Article
Detection and Identification of Pesticides in Fruits Coupling to an Au–Au Nanorod Array SERS Substrate and RF-1D-CNN Model Analysis
by Pengxing Sha, Chushu Zhu, Tianran Wang, Peitao Dong and Xuezhong Wu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080717 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1084
Abstract
In this research, a method was developed for fabricating Au–Au nanorod array substrates through the deposition of large-area Au nanostructures on an Au nanorod array using a galvanic cell reaction. The incorporation of a granular structure enhanced both the number and intensity of [...] Read more.
In this research, a method was developed for fabricating Au–Au nanorod array substrates through the deposition of large-area Au nanostructures on an Au nanorod array using a galvanic cell reaction. The incorporation of a granular structure enhanced both the number and intensity of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) hot spots on the substrate, thereby elevating the SERS performance beyond that of substrates composed solely of an Au nanorod. Calculations using the finite difference time domain method confirmed the generation of a strong electromagnetic field around the nanoparticles. Motivated by the electromotive force, Au ions in the chloroauric acid solution were reduced to form nanostructures on the nanorod array. The size and distribution density of these granular nanostructures could be modulated by varying the reaction time and the concentration of chloroauric acid. The resulting Au–Au nanorod array substrate exhibited an active, uniform, and reproducible SERS effect. With 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethylene as the probe molecule, the detection sensitivity of the Au–Au nanorod array substrate was enhanced to 10−11 M, improving by five orders of magnitude over the substrate consisting only of an Au nanorod array. For a practical application, this substrate was utilized for the detection of pesticides, including thiram, thiabendazole, carbendazim, and phosmet, within the concentration range of 10−4 to 5 × 10−7 M. An analytical model combining a random forest and a one-dimensional convolutional neural network, referring to the important variable-one-dimensional convolutional neural network model, was developed for the precise identification of thiram. This approach demonstrated significant potential for biochemical sensing and rapid on-site identification. Full article
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15 pages, 5694 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of MnIn2S4/Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Composites as an Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Pei-Jun Wu, Chia-Hung Huang, Chien-Te Hsieh and Wei-Ren Liu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 716; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080716 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1107
Abstract
In this study, we synthesized a transition metal sulfide (TMS) with a spinel structure, i.e., MnIn2S4 (MIS), using a two-step hydrothermal and sintering process. In the context of lithium-ion battery (LIB) applications, ternary TMSs are being considered as interesting options [...] Read more.
In this study, we synthesized a transition metal sulfide (TMS) with a spinel structure, i.e., MnIn2S4 (MIS), using a two-step hydrothermal and sintering process. In the context of lithium-ion battery (LIB) applications, ternary TMSs are being considered as interesting options for anode materials. This consideration arises from their notable attributes, including high theoretical capacity, excellent cycle stability, and cost-effectiveness. However, dramatic volume changes result in the electrochemical performance being severely limited, so we introduced single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and prepared an MIS/SWCNT composite to enhance the structural stability and electronic conductivity. The synthesized MIS/SWCNT composite exhibits better cycle performance than bare MIS. Undergoing 100 cycles, MIS only yields a reversible capacity of 117 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g. However, the MIS/SWCNT composite exhibits a reversible capacity as high as 536 mAh/g after 100 cycles. Moreover, the MIS/SWCNT composite shows a better rate capability. The current density increases with cycling, and the SWCNT composite exhibits high reversible capacities of 232 and 102 mAh/g at 2 A/g and 5 A/g, respectively. Under the same conditions, pristine MIS can only deliver reversible capacities of 21 and 4 mAh/g. The results indicate that MIS/SWCNT composites are promising anode materials for LIBs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy and Catalysis)
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11 pages, 6302 KiB  
Article
Full-Color Imaging System Based on the Joint Integration of a Metalens and Neural Network
by Shuling Hu, Ruixue Shi, Bin Wang, Yuan Wei, Binzhi Qi and Peng Zhou
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080715 - 19 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1190
Abstract
Lenses have been a cornerstone of optical systems for centuries; however, they are inherently limited by the laws of physics, particularly in terms of size and weight. Because of their characteristic light weight, small size, and subwavelength modulation, metalenses have the potential to [...] Read more.
Lenses have been a cornerstone of optical systems for centuries; however, they are inherently limited by the laws of physics, particularly in terms of size and weight. Because of their characteristic light weight, small size, and subwavelength modulation, metalenses have the potential to miniaturize and integrate imaging systems. However, metalenses still face the problem that chromatic aberration affects the clarity and accuracy of images. A high-quality image system based on the end-to-end joint optimization of a neural network and an achromatic metalens is demonstrated in this paper. In the multi-scale encoder–decoder network, both the phase characteristics of the metalens and the hyperparameters of the neural network are optimized to obtain high-resolution images. The average peak-signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and average structure similarity (SSIM) of the recovered images reach 28.53 and 0.83. This method enables full-color and high-performance imaging in the visible band. Our approach holds promise for a wide range of applications, including medical imaging, remote sensing, and consumer electronics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanomaterials for Optoelectronics: Second Edition)
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33 pages, 10616 KiB  
Article
Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of Hydroxyl and Epoxy Group Effects on Graphene Oxide Properties
by Ximena Jaramillo-Fierro and Guisella Cuenca
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 714; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080714 - 19 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1288
Abstract
In this study, we analyzed the impact of hydroxyl and epoxy groups on the properties of graphene oxide (GO) for the adsorption of methylene blue (MB) dye from water, addressing the urgent need for effective water purification methods due to industrial pollution. Employing [...] Read more.
In this study, we analyzed the impact of hydroxyl and epoxy groups on the properties of graphene oxide (GO) for the adsorption of methylene blue (MB) dye from water, addressing the urgent need for effective water purification methods due to industrial pollution. Employing a dual approach, we integrated experimental techniques with theoretical modeling via density functional theory (DFT) to examine the atomic structure of GO and its adsorption capabilities. The methodology encompasses a series of experiments to evaluate the performance of GO in MB dye adsorption under different conditions, including differences in pH, dye concentration, reaction temperature, and contact time, providing a comprehensive view of its effectiveness. Theoretical DFT calculations provide insights into how hydroxyl and epoxy modifications alter the electronic properties of GO, improving adsorption efficiency. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in the dye adsorption capacity of GO, attributed to the interaction between the functional groups and MB molecules. This study not only confirms the potential of GO as a superior adsorbent for water treatment, but also contributes to the optimization of GO-based materials for environmental remediation, highlighting the synergy between experimental observations and theoretical predictions in advances in materials science to improve sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation, Characterization, Properties, Simulation, and Applications of Nanostructured Materials)
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10 pages, 4507 KiB  
Article
Graphene-Tuned, Tightly Coupled Hybrid Plasmonic Meta-Atoms
by Kai Chen, Ke Li, Yiming Wang, Zihao Zhang, Yanpeng Shi, Aimin Song and Yifei Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080713 - 19 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1054
Abstract
Tightly coupled meta-atoms (TCMAs) are densely packed metamaterials with unnatural refractive indexes. Actively modulated TCMAs with tunable optical properties have found many applications in beam shaping, holography, and enhanced light–matter interactions. Typically, TCMAs are studied in the classic Bloch theory. Here, tightly coupled [...] Read more.
Tightly coupled meta-atoms (TCMAs) are densely packed metamaterials with unnatural refractive indexes. Actively modulated TCMAs with tunable optical properties have found many applications in beam shaping, holography, and enhanced light–matter interactions. Typically, TCMAs are studied in the classic Bloch theory. Here, tightly coupled H-shaped meta-atoms are proposed with an ultra-high permittivity of ~6000, and their active modulation with graphene is designed by using the tightly coupled dipole array (TCDA) theory. The H-shaped meta-atoms are used as dipole arms, and the graphene strips function as the dipole loads. By tuning the chemical potential of graphene, the resonant amplitude, frequency, and permittivity are dynamically modulated. The simulations indicate that the real and imaginary parts of permittivity change from 6854 to 1522 and from 7356 to 2870, respectively. The experimental validation demonstrates a modulation depth of 11.6% in the resonant frequency, i.e., from 219.4 to 195 GHz, and a substantial 52.5% modulation depth in transmittance under a bias voltage of less than 1.5 V. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Terahertz Technology Applications)
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4 pages, 158 KiB  
Editorial
Advances in Nano-Electrochemical Materials and Devices
by Mei Wang, Xuyuan Chen and Nabin Aryal
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080712 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1327
Abstract
Nano-electrochemical materials and devices are at the frontier of research and development, advancing electrochemistry and its applications in energy storage, sensing, electrochemical processing, etc [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nano-Electrochemical Materials and Devices)
25 pages, 6943 KiB  
Article
Dependence of the Structural and Magnetic Properties on the Growth Sequence in Heterostructures Designed by YbFeO3 and BaFe12O19
by Sondes Bauer, Berkin Nergis, Xiaowei Jin, Reinhard Schneider, Di Wang, Christian Kübel, Petr Machovec, Lukas Horak, Vaclav Holy, Klaus Seemann, Tilo Baumbach and Sven Ulrich
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080711 - 18 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1143
Abstract
The structure and the chemical composition of individual layers as well as of interfaces belonging to the two heterostructures M1 (BaFe12O19/YbFeO3/YSZ) and M2 (YbFeO3/BaFe12O19/YSZ) grown by pulsed laser deposition on yttria-stabilized [...] Read more.
The structure and the chemical composition of individual layers as well as of interfaces belonging to the two heterostructures M1 (BaFe12O19/YbFeO3/YSZ) and M2 (YbFeO3/BaFe12O19/YSZ) grown by pulsed laser deposition on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates are deeply characterized by using a combination of methods such as high-resolution X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and atomic-resolution scanning TEM with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The temperature-dependent magnetic properties demonstrate two distinct heterostructures with different coercivity, anisotropy fields, and first anisotropy constants, which are related to the defect concentrations within the individual layers and to the degree of intermixing at the interface. The heterostructure with the stacking order BaFe12O19/YbFeO3, i.e., M1, exhibits a distinctive interface without any chemical intermixture, while an Fe-rich crystalline phase is observed in M2 both in atomic-resolution EDX maps and in mass density profiles. Additionally, M1 shows high c-axis orientation, which induces a higher anisotropy constant K1 as well as a larger coercivity due to a high number of phase boundaries. Despite the existence of a canted antiferromagnetic/ferromagnetic combination (T < 140 K), both heterostructures M1 and M2 do not reveal any detectable exchange bias at T = 50 K. Additionally, compressive residual strain on the BaM layer is found to be suppressing the ferromagnetism, thus reducing the Curie temperature (Tc) in the case of M1. These findings suggest that M1 (BaFe12O19/YbFeO3/YSZ) is suitable for magnetic storage applications. Full article
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20 pages, 51434 KiB  
Article
Suppression of Root Rot Fungal Diseases in Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) through the Application of Biologically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles
by Ezzeldin Ibrahim, Abdelmonim Ali Ahmad, El-Sayed Abdo, Mohamed Ahmed Bakr, Mohamed Ali Khalil, Yasmine Abdallah, Solabomi Olaitan Ogunyemi, Mohamed Mohany, Salim S. Al-Rejaie, Linfei Shou, Bin Li and Anwar A. Galal
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080710 - 18 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1670
Abstract
The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has become a safe replacement for conventional chemical synthesis methods to fight plant pathogens. In this study, the antifungal activity of biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated both in vitro and under greenhouse conditions against root [...] Read more.
The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has become a safe replacement for conventional chemical synthesis methods to fight plant pathogens. In this study, the antifungal activity of biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated both in vitro and under greenhouse conditions against root rot fungi of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), including Macrophomina phaseolina, Pythium graminicola, Rhizoctonia solani, and Sclerotium rolfsii. Among the eleven biosynthesized AgNPs, those synthesized using Alhagi graecorum plant extract displayed the highest efficacy in suppressing those fungi. The findings showed that using AgNPs made with A. graecorum at a concentration of 100 μg/mL greatly slowed down the growth of mycelium for R. solani, P. graminicola, S. rolfsii, and M. phaseolina by 92.60%, 94.44%, 75.93%, and 79.63%, respectively. Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentration (75 μg/mL) of AgNPs synthesized by A. graecorum was very effective against all of these fungi, lowering the pre-emergence damping-off, post-emergence damping-off, and disease percent and severity in vitro and greenhouse conditions. Additionally, the treatment with AgNPs led to increased root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight, and vigor index of bean seedlings compared to the control group. The synthesis of nanoparticles using A. graecorum was confirmed using various physicochemical techniques, including UV spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Collectively, the findings of this study highlight the potential of AgNPs as an effective and environmentally sustainable approach for controlling root rot fungi in beans. Full article
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14 pages, 13934 KiB  
Article
On-Chip Broadband, Compact TM Mode Mach–Zehnder Optical Isolator Based on InP-on-Insulator Platforms
by Wan-Ting Chen, Li Liu, Jia Zhao and Chen Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 709; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080709 - 18 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1215
Abstract
An integrated optical isolator is a crucial part of photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Existing optical isolators, predominantly based on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform, face challenges in integrating with active devices. We propose a broadband, compact TM mode Mach–Zehnder optical isolator based on InP-on-insulator [...] Read more.
An integrated optical isolator is a crucial part of photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Existing optical isolators, predominantly based on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform, face challenges in integrating with active devices. We propose a broadband, compact TM mode Mach–Zehnder optical isolator based on InP-on-insulator platforms. We designed two distinct magneto-optical waveguide structures, employing different methods for bonding Ce:YIG and InP, namely O2 plasma surface activation direct wafer bonding and DVS-benzocyclobutene (BCB) adhesive bonding. Detailed calculations and optimizations were conducted to enhance their non-reciprocal phase shift (NRPS). At a wavelength of 1550 nm, the direct-bonded waveguide structure achieved a 30 dB bandwidth of 72 nm with a length difference of 0.256 µm. The effects of waveguide arm length, fabrication accuracy, and dimensional errors on the device performance are discussed. Additionally, manufacturing tolerances for three types of lithographic processes were calculated, serving as references for practical manufacturing purposes. Full article
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17 pages, 5623 KiB  
Article
Nanocrystalline Cubic Phase Scandium-Stabilized Zirconia Thin Films
by Victor Danchuk, Mykola Shatalov, Michael Zinigrad, Alexey Kossenko, Tamara Brider, Luc Le, Dustin Johnson, Yuri M. Strzhemechny and Albina Musin
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080708 - 18 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1082
Abstract
The cubic zirconia (ZrO2) is attractive for a broad range of applications. However, at room temperature, the cubic phase needs to be stabilized. The most studied stabilization method is the addition of the oxides of trivalent metals, such as Sc2 [...] Read more.
The cubic zirconia (ZrO2) is attractive for a broad range of applications. However, at room temperature, the cubic phase needs to be stabilized. The most studied stabilization method is the addition of the oxides of trivalent metals, such as Sc2O3. Another method is the stabilization of the cubic phase in nanostructures—nanopowders or nanocrystallites of pure zirconia. We studied the relationship between the size factor and the dopant concentration range for the formation and stabilization of the cubic phase in scandium-stabilized zirconia (ScSZ) films. The thin films of (ZrO2)1−x(Sc2O3)x, with x from 0 to 0.2, were deposited on room-temperature substrates by reactive direct current magnetron co-sputtering. The crystal structure of films with an average crystallite size of 85 Å was cubic at Sc2O3 content from 6.5 to 17.5 mol%, which is much broader than the range of 8–12 mol.% of the conventional deposition methods. The sputtering of ScSZ films on hot substrates resulted in a doubling of crystallite size and a decrease in the cubic phase range to 7.4–11 mol% of Sc2O3 content. This confirmed that the size of crystallites is one of the determining factors for expanding the concentration range for forming and stabilizing the cubic phase of ScSZ films. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanoscale Materials and (Flexible) Devices)
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20 pages, 1087 KiB  
Article
Pump-Driven Opto-Magnetic Properties in Semiconducting Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides: An Analytical Model
by Habib Rostami, Federico Cilento and Emmanuele Cappelluti
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080707 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 957
Abstract
Single-layer transition-metal dichalcogenides provide an unique intrinsic entanglement between the spin/valley/orbital degrees of freedom and the polarization of scattered photons. This scenario gives rise to the well-assessed optical dichroism observed by using both steady and time-resolved probes. In this paper, we provide compact [...] Read more.
Single-layer transition-metal dichalcogenides provide an unique intrinsic entanglement between the spin/valley/orbital degrees of freedom and the polarization of scattered photons. This scenario gives rise to the well-assessed optical dichroism observed by using both steady and time-resolved probes. In this paper, we provide compact analytical modeling of the onset of a finite Faraday/Kerr optical rotation upon shining with circularly polarized light. We identify different optical features displaying optical rotation at different characteristic energies, and we describe in an analytical framework the time-dependence of their intensities as a consequence of the main spin-conserving and spin-flip processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Superconductivity and Magnetism in Two-Dimensional and Layered Materials)
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15 pages, 5938 KiB  
Article
An Electroanalytical Enzymeless α-Fe2O3-ZnO Hybrid Nanostructure-Based Sensor for Sensitive Quantification of Nitrite Ions
by Rafiq Ahmad, Abdullah, Md. Tabish Rehman, Mohamed F. AlAjmi, Shamshad Alam, Kiesar Sideeq Bhat, Prabhash Mishra and Byeong-Il Lee
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080706 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1766
Abstract
Nitrite monitoring serves as a fundamental practice for protecting public health, preserving environmental quality, ensuring food safety, maintaining industrial safety standards, and optimizing agricultural practices. Although many nitrite sensing methods have been recently developed, the quantification of nitrite remains challenging due to sensitivity [...] Read more.
Nitrite monitoring serves as a fundamental practice for protecting public health, preserving environmental quality, ensuring food safety, maintaining industrial safety standards, and optimizing agricultural practices. Although many nitrite sensing methods have been recently developed, the quantification of nitrite remains challenging due to sensitivity and selectivity limitations. In this context, we present the fabrication of enzymeless iron oxide nanoparticle-modified zinc oxide nanorod (α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR) hybrid nanostructure-based nitrite sensor fabrication. The α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR hybrid nanostructure was synthesized using a two-step hydrothermal method and characterized in detail utilizing x-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). These analyses confirm the successful synthesis of an α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR hybrid nanostructure, highlighting its morphology, purity, crystallinity, and elemental constituents. The α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR hybrid nanostructure was used to modify the SPCE (screen-printed carbon electrode) for enzymeless nitrite sensor fabrication. The voltammetric methods (i.e., cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV)) were employed to explore the electrochemical characteristics of α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR/SPCE sensors for nitrite. Upon examination of the sensor’s electrochemical behavior across a range of nitrite concentrations (0 to 500 µM), it is evident that the α-Fe2O3-ZnO NR hybrid nanostructure shows an increased response with increasing nitrite concentration. The sensor demonstrates a linear response to nitrite concentrations up to 400 µM, a remarkable sensitivity of 18.10 µA µM−1 cm−2, and a notably low detection threshold of 0.16 µM. Furthermore, its exceptional selectivity, stability, and reproducibility make it an ideal tool for accurately measuring nitrite levels in serum, yielding reliable outcomes. This advancement heralds a significant step forward in the field of environmental monitoring, offering a potent solution for the precise assessment of nitrite pollution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanomaterials for Sensing and Detection (2nd Edition))
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14 pages, 4257 KiB  
Article
The Mechanism of Manipulating Chirality and Chiral Sensing Based on Chiral Plexcitons in a Strong-Coupling Regime
by Xiongyu Liang, Kun Liang, Xuyan Deng, Chengmao He, Peng Zhou, Junqiang Li, Jianyu Qin, Lei Jin and Li Yu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 705; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080705 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1504
Abstract
Manipulating plasmonic chirality has shown promising applications in nanophotonics, stereochemistry, chirality sensing, and biomedicine. However, to reconfigure plasmonic chirality, the strategy of constructing chiral plasmonic systems with a tunable morphology is cumbersome and complicated to apply for integrated devices. Here, we present a [...] Read more.
Manipulating plasmonic chirality has shown promising applications in nanophotonics, stereochemistry, chirality sensing, and biomedicine. However, to reconfigure plasmonic chirality, the strategy of constructing chiral plasmonic systems with a tunable morphology is cumbersome and complicated to apply for integrated devices. Here, we present a simple and effective method that can also manipulate chirality and control chiral light–matter interactions only via strong coupling between chiral plasmonic nanoparticles and excitons. This paper presents a chiral plexcitonic system consisting of L-shaped nanorod dimers and achiral molecule excitons. The circular dichroism (CD) spectra in our strong-coupling system can be calculated by finite element method simulations. We found that the formation of the chiral plexcitons can significantly modulate the CD spectra, including the appearance of new hybridized peaks, double Rabi splitting, and bisignate anti-crossing behaviors. This phenomenon can be explained by our extended coupled-mode theory. Moreover, we explored the applications of this method in enantiomer ratio sensing by using the properties of the CD spectra. We found a strong linear dependence of the CD spectra on the enantiomer ratio. Our work provides a facile and efficient method to modulate the chirality of nanosystems, deepens our understanding of chiral plexcitons in nanosystems, and facilitates the development of chiral devices and chiral sensing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
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13 pages, 3937 KiB  
Article
Strain-Induced Ferromagnetism in Monolayer T″-Phase VTe2: Unveiling Magnetic States and Anisotropy for Spintronics Advancement
by Xiaoting Tang, Jun Zhou, Nancy Lai Mun Wong, Jianwei Chai, Yi Liu, Shijie Wang and Xiaohe Song
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080704 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1327
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) ferromagnets have attracted significant interest for their potential in spintronic device miniaturization, especially since the discovery of ferromagnetic ordering in monolayer materials such as CrI3 and Fe3GeTe2 in 2017. This study presents a detailed investigation into the [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional (2D) ferromagnets have attracted significant interest for their potential in spintronic device miniaturization, especially since the discovery of ferromagnetic ordering in monolayer materials such as CrI3 and Fe3GeTe2 in 2017. This study presents a detailed investigation into the effects of the Hubbard U parameter, biaxial strain, and structural distortions on the magnetic characteristics of T″-phase VTe2. We demonstrate that setting the Hubbard U to 0 eV provides an accurate representation of the observed structural, magnetic, and electronic features for both bulk and monolayer T″-phase VTe2. The application of strain reveals two distinct ferromagnetic states in the monolayer T″-phase VTe2, each characterized by minor structural differences, but notably different magnetic moments. The T″-1 state, with reduced magnetic moments, emerges under compressive strain, while the T″-2 state, featuring increased magnetic moments, develops under tensile strain. Our analysis also compares the magnetic anisotropy between the T and T″ phases of VTe2, highlighting that the periodic lattice distortion in the T″-phase induces an in-plane anisotropy, which makes it a material with an easy-axis of magnetization. Monte Carlo simulations corroborate our findings, indicating a high Curie temperature of approximately 191 K for the T″-phase VTe2. Our research not only sheds light on the critical aspects of the VTe2 system but also suggests new pathways for enhancing low-dimensional magnetism, contributing to the advancement of spintronics and straintronics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Two-Dimensional Semiconductors and Magnetic Materials for Next-Generation Spintronics)
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11 pages, 4360 KiB  
Article
The Influence Mechanism of Quantum Well Growth and Annealing Temperature on In Migration and Stress Modulation Behavior
by Luyi Yan, Feng Liang, Jing Yang, Ping Chen, Desheng Jiang and Degang Zhao
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(8), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14080703 - 18 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1280
Abstract
This study explores the effects of growth temperature of InGaN/GaN quantum well (QW) layers on indium migration, structural quality, and luminescence properties. It is found that within a specific range, the growth temperature can control the efficiency of In incorporation into QWs and [...] Read more.
This study explores the effects of growth temperature of InGaN/GaN quantum well (QW) layers on indium migration, structural quality, and luminescence properties. It is found that within a specific range, the growth temperature can control the efficiency of In incorporation into QWs and strain energy accumulated in the QW structure, modulating the luminescence efficiency. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) measurements revealed a more pronounced localized state effect in QW samples grown at higher temperatures. Moreover, a too high annealing temperature will enhance indium migration, leading to an increased density of non-radiative recombination centers and a more pronounced quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE), thereby reducing luminescence intensity. These findings highlight the critical role of thermal management in optimizing the performance of InGaN/GaN MQWs in LEDs and other photoelectronic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Modeling, Fabrication, and Characterization of Semiconductor Materials and Devices)
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