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
Oxygen Vacancy-Enhanced Ni3N-CeO2/NF Nanoparticle Catalysts for Efficient and Stable Electrolytic Water Splitting
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110935 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Highly efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts are of critical significance in the domain of water electrolysis. In this study, a Ni3N-CeO2/NF heterostructure is synthesized through a facile hydrothermal technique followed by a subsequent nitridation process. This catalyst is endowed with
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Highly efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts are of critical significance in the domain of water electrolysis. In this study, a Ni3N-CeO2/NF heterostructure is synthesized through a facile hydrothermal technique followed by a subsequent nitridation process. This catalyst is endowed with an abundance of oxygen vacancies, thereby conferring a richer array of active sites. Therefore, the catalyst demonstrates a markedly low overpotential of 350 mV for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) at 50 mA cm−2 and a low overpotential of 42 mV for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) at 10 mA cm−2. Serving as a dual-function electrode, this electrocatalyst is employed in overall water splitting in alkaline environments, demonstrating impressive efficiency at a cell voltage of 1.52 V of 10 mA cm−2. The in situ Raman spectroscopic analysis demonstrates that cerium dioxide (CeO2) facilitates the rapid reconfiguration of oxygen vacancy-enriched nickel oxyhydroxide (NiOOH), thereby enhancing the OER performance. This investigation elucidates the catalytic role of CeO2 in augmenting the OER efficiency of nickel nitride (Ni3N) for water electrolysis, offering valuable insights for the design of high-performance bifunctional catalysts tailored for water splitting applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen/Oxygen Evolution Reaction)
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Open AccessArticle
DC-free Method to Evaluate Nanoscale Equivalent Oxide Thickness: Dark-Mode Scanning Capacitance Microscopy
by
Mao-Nan Chang, Yi-Shan Wu, Chiao-Jung Lin, Yu-Hsun Hsueh, Chun-Jung Su and Yao-Jen Lee
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110934 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
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This study developed a DC-free technique that used dark-mode scanning capacitance microscopy (DM-SCM) with a small-area contact electrode to evaluate and image equivalent oxide thicknesses (EOTs). In contrast to the conventional capacitance–voltage (C–V) method, which requires a large-area contact electrode and DC voltage
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This study developed a DC-free technique that used dark-mode scanning capacitance microscopy (DM-SCM) with a small-area contact electrode to evaluate and image equivalent oxide thicknesses (EOTs). In contrast to the conventional capacitance–voltage (C–V) method, which requires a large-area contact electrode and DC voltage sweeping to provide reliable C–V curves from which the EOT can be determined, the proposed method enabled the evaluation of the EOT to a few nanometers for thermal and high-k oxides. The signal intensity equation defining the voltage modulation efficiency in scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) indicates that thermal oxide films on silicon can serve as calibration references for the establishment of a linear relationship between the SCM signal ratio and the EOT ratio; the EOT is then determined from this relationship. Experimental results for thermal oxide films demonstrated that the EOT obtained using the DM-SCM approach closely matched the value obtained using the typical C–V method for frequencies ranging from 90 kHz to 1 MHz. The percentage differences in EOT values between the C–V and SCM measurements were smaller than 0.5%. For high-k oxide films, DM-SCM with a DC-free operation may mitigate the effect of DC voltages on evaluations of EOTs. In addition, image operations were performed to obtain EOT images showing the EOT variation induced by DC-stress-induced charge trapping. Compared with the typical C–V method, the proposed DM-SCM approach not only provides a DC-free approach for EOT evaluation, but also offers a valuable opportunity to visualize the EOT distribution before and after the application of DC stress.
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Open AccessArticle
Chlorin e6-Conjugated Mesoporous Titania Nanorods as Potential Nanoplatform for Photo-Chemotherapy
by
Estefanía Vélez-Peña, Verónica A. Jiménez, Joaquín Manzo-Merino, Joel B. Alderete and Cristian H. Campos
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110933 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed as an efficient strategy for cancer treatment. PDT involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by light irradiation after activating a photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of O2. PS-coupled nanomaterials offer additional advantages, as they
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Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed as an efficient strategy for cancer treatment. PDT involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by light irradiation after activating a photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of O2. PS-coupled nanomaterials offer additional advantages, as they can merge the effects of PDT with conventional enabling-combined photo-chemotherapeutics effects. In this work, mesoporous titania nanorods were surface-immobilized with Chlorin e6 (Ce6) conjugated through 3-(aminopropyl)-trimethoxysilane as a coupling agent. The mesoporous nanorods act as nano vehicles for doxorubicin delivery, and the Ce6 provides a visible light-responsive production of ROS to induce PDT. The nanomaterials were characterized by XRD, DRS, FTIR, TGA, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms at 77 K, and TEM. The obtained materials were tested for their singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radical generation capacity using fluorescence assays. In vitro cell viability experiments with HeLa cells showed that the prepared materials are not cytotoxic in the dark, and that they exhibit photodynamic activity when irradiated with LED light (150 W m−2). Drug-loading experiments with doxorubicin (DOX) as a model chemotherapeutic drug showed that the nanostructures efficiently encapsulated DOX. The DOX-nanomaterial formulations show chemo-cytotoxic effects on Hela cells. Combined photo-chemotoxicity experiments show enhanced effects on HeLa cell viability, indicating that the conjugated nanorods are promising for use in combined therapy driven by LED light irradiation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Study of the Effects of Nanoparticles on Human Cells)
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Open AccessArticle
Two-Dimensional MoS2 Nanosheets Derived from Cathodic Exfoliation for Lithium Storage Applications
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Alberto Martínez-Jódar, Silvia Villar-Rodil, José M. Munuera, Alberto Castro-Muñiz, Jonathan N. Coleman, Encarnación Raymundo-Piñero and Juan I. Paredes
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110932 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The preparation of 2H-phase MoS2 thin nanosheets by electrochemical delamination remains a challenge, despite numerous efforts in this direction. In this work, by choosing appropriate intercalating cations for cathodic delamination, the insertion process was facilitated, leading to a higher degree of exfoliation
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The preparation of 2H-phase MoS2 thin nanosheets by electrochemical delamination remains a challenge, despite numerous efforts in this direction. In this work, by choosing appropriate intercalating cations for cathodic delamination, the insertion process was facilitated, leading to a higher degree of exfoliation while maintaining the original 2H-phase of the starting bulk MoS2 material. Specifically, trimethylalkylammonium cations were tested as electrolytes, outperforming their bulkier tetraalkylammonium counterparts, which have been the focus of past studies. The performance of novel electrochemically derived 2H-phase MoS2 nanosheets as electrode material for electrochemical energy storage in lithium-ion batteries was investigated. The lower thickness and thus higher flexibility of cathodically exfoliated MoS2 promoted better electrochemical performance compared to liquid-phase and ultrasonically assisted exfoliated MoS2, both in terms of capacity (447 vs. 371 mA·h·g−1 at 0.2 A·g−1) and rate capability (30% vs. 8% capacity retained when the current density was increased from 0.2 A·g−1 to 5 A·g−1), as well as cycle life (44% vs. 17% capacity retention at 0.2 A·g−1 after 580 cycles). Overall, the present work provides a convenient route for obtaining MoS2 thin nanosheets for their advantageous use as anode material for lithium storage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section 2D and Carbon Nanomaterials)
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Open AccessArticle
Strategy for Ensuring the Metrological Traceability of Nanoparticle Size Measurements by SEM
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Nicolas Feltin, Alexandra Delvallée and Loïc Crouzier
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110931 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
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The concept of measurement traceability is crucial for ensuring the data reliability and the comparability of measurement results provided by different instruments and operators. In the field of nanoparticle metrology, determining the size of nanoparticles using electron microscopy-based techniques remains a real challenge.
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The concept of measurement traceability is crucial for ensuring the data reliability and the comparability of measurement results provided by different instruments and operators. In the field of nanoparticle metrology, determining the size of nanoparticles using electron microscopy-based techniques remains a real challenge. In laboratory settings, the establishment of traceability regarding the instrument calibration procedures, the assessment of uncertainties associated with instruments/operators/samples/environments, as well as the complexities related to electron–sample interactions, are often neglected. In this article, we describe the calibration procedure set up at the LNE (Laboratoire National de métrologie et d’Essais) and propose an evaluation method for determining the uncertainties in measuring nanoparticle size by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). This study investigates the impact of the energy of the primary electrons (PEs) generated by the electron beam and accelerating voltage on the reliability of size measurements. The convolution between the signals coming from a nanoparticle and the substrate on which the particle is deposited induces edge effects that can have a negative impact on the measurement results. Finally, a diagram describing the various stages involved in establishing traceability for SEM measurements of nanoparticle size is proposed to facilitate the work of future operators.
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Open AccessArticle
Development and Fabrication of a Multi-Layer Planar Solar Light Absorber Achieving High Absorptivity and Ultra-Wideband Response from Visible Light to Infrared
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Cheng-Fu Yang, Chih-Hsuan Wang, Pei-Xiu Ke, Teen-Hang Meen and Kuei-Kuei Lai
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110930 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
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The objective of this study is to create a planar solar light absorber that exhibits exceptional absorption characteristics spanning from visible light to infrared across an ultra-wide spectral range. The eight layered structures of the absorber, from top to bottom, consisted of Al
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The objective of this study is to create a planar solar light absorber that exhibits exceptional absorption characteristics spanning from visible light to infrared across an ultra-wide spectral range. The eight layered structures of the absorber, from top to bottom, consisted of Al2O3, Ti, Al2O3, Ti, Al2O3, Ni, Al2O3, and Al. The COMSOL Multiphysics® simulation software (version 6.0) was utilized to construct the absorber model and perform simulation analyses. The first significant finding of this study is that as compared to absorbers featuring seven-layered structures (excluding the top Al2O3 layer) or using TiO2 or SiO2 layers as substituted for Al2O3 layer, the presence of the top Al2O3 layer demonstrated superior anti-reflection properties. Another noteworthy finding was that the top Al2O3 layer provided better impedance matching compared to scenarios where it was absent or replaced with TiO2 or SiO2 layers, enhancing the absorber’s overall efficiency. Consequently, across the ultra-wideband spectrum spanning 350 to 1970 nm, the average absorptivity reached an impressive 96.76%. One significant novelty of this study was the utilization of various top-layer materials to assess the absorption and reflection spectra, along with the optical-impedance-matching properties of the designed absorber. Another notable contribution was the successful implementation of evaporation techniques for depositing and manufacturing this optimized absorber. A further innovation involved the use of transmission electron microscopy to observe the thickness of each deposition layer. Subsequently, the simulated and calculated absorption spectra of solar energy across the AM1.5 spectrum for both the designed and fabricated absorbers were compared, demonstrating a match between the measured and simulated results.
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Open AccessArticle
Structured-Light 3D Imaging Based on Vector Iterative Fourier Transform Algorithm
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Runzhe Zhang, Siyuan Qiao, Yixiong Luo, Yinghui Guo, Xiaoyin Li, Qi Zhang, Yulong Fan, Zeyu Zhao and Xiangang Luo
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110929 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces overcome the side effects imposed by high-order diffraction on imaging and can impart optical parameters such as amplitude, phase, polarization, and frequency to incident light at sub-wavelength scales with high efficiency. Structured-light three-dimensional (3D) imaging is a hot topic in the
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Quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces overcome the side effects imposed by high-order diffraction on imaging and can impart optical parameters such as amplitude, phase, polarization, and frequency to incident light at sub-wavelength scales with high efficiency. Structured-light three-dimensional (3D) imaging is a hot topic in the field of 3D imaging because of its advantages of low computation cost, high imaging accuracy, fast imaging speed, and cost-effectiveness. Structured-light 3D imaging requires uniform diffractive optical elements (DOEs), which could be realized by quasi-continuous-phase metasurfaces. In this paper, we design a quasi-continuous-phase metasurface beam splitter through a vector iterative Fourier transform algorithm and utilize this device to realize structured-light 3D imaging of a target object with subsequent target reconstruction. A structured-light 3D imaging system is then experimentally implemented by combining the fabricated quasi-continuous-phase metasurface illuminated by the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser and a binocular recognition system, which eventually provides a new technological path for the 3D imaging field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Photonic and Plasmonic Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
A Comprehensive Study of NF3-Based Selective Etching Processes: Application to the Fabrication of Vertically Stacked Horizontal Gate-All-around Si Nanosheet Transistors
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Xin Sun, Jiayang Li, Lewen Qian, Dawei Wang, Ziqiang Huang, Xinlong Guo, Tao Liu, Saisheng Xu, Liming Wang, Min Xu and David Wei Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110928 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we demonstrate a comprehensive study of NF3-based selective etching processes for inner spacer formation and for channel release, enabling stacked horizontal gate-all-around Si nanosheet transistor architectures. A cyclic etching process consisting of an oxidation treatment step and an
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In this paper, we demonstrate a comprehensive study of NF3-based selective etching processes for inner spacer formation and for channel release, enabling stacked horizontal gate-all-around Si nanosheet transistor architectures. A cyclic etching process consisting of an oxidation treatment step and an etching step is proposed and used for SiGe selective etching. The cyclic etching process exhibits a slower etching rate and higher etching selectivity compared to the direct etching process. The cycle etching process consisting of Recipe 1, which has a SiGe etching rate of 0.98 nm/cycle, is used for the cavity etch. The process achieved good interlayer uniformity of cavity depth (cavity depth ≤ 5 ± 0.3 nm), while also obtaining a near-ideal rectangular SiGe etch front shape (inner spacer shape = 0.84) and little Si loss (0.44 nm@ each side). The cycle etching process consisting of Recipe 4 with extremely high etching selectivity is used for channel release. The process realizes the channel release of nanosheets with a multi-width from 30 nm to 80 nm with little Si loss. In addition, a selective isotropic etching process using NF3/O2/Ar gas mixture is used to etch back the SiN film. The impact of the O2/NF3 ratio on the etching selectivity of SiN to Si and the surface roughness of SiN after etching is investigated. With the introduction of O2 into NF3/Ar discharge, the selectivity increases sharply, but when the ratio of O2/NF3 is up to 1.0, the selectivity tends to a constant value and the surface roughness of SiN increases rapidly. The optimal parameter is O2/NF3 = 0.5, resulting in a selectivity of 5.4 and a roughness of 0.19 nm.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanosheets for Carbon Neutrality and Electronic Devices)
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Termiticidal Effects and Morpho-Histological Alterations in the Subterranean Termite (Odontotermes formosanus) Induced by Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, and Chitosan Nanoparticles
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Raghda Nasser, Ezzeldin Ibrahim, Hatem Fouad, Farhan Ahmad, Wuhan Li, Qihuan Zhou, Ting Yu, Nooney Chidwala and Jianchu Mo
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110927 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Recently, nanoparticles have been widely used in agricultural pest control as a secure substitute for pesticides. However, the effect of nanoparticles on controlling the subterranean termite Odontotermes formosanus (O. formosanus) has not been studied yet. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate
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Recently, nanoparticles have been widely used in agricultural pest control as a secure substitute for pesticides. However, the effect of nanoparticles on controlling the subterranean termite Odontotermes formosanus (O. formosanus) has not been studied yet. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of some nanomaterials in controlling O. formosanus. The results showed that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs), and chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) biosynthesized using the culture filtrate of Scedosporium apiospermum (S. apiospermum) had an effective role in controlling O. formosanus. Moreover, the mortality rate of O. formosanus after 48 h of treatment with ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs at a 1000 µg/mL concentration was 100%, 100%, and 97.67%, respectively. Furthermore, using ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs on O. formosanus resulted in morpho-histological variations in the normal structure, leading to its death. X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and the Zeta potential were used to characterize the biosynthesis of ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs with strong activity against O. formosanus termites. Overall, the results of this investigation suggest that biosynthesized ZnONPs, TiO2NPs, and CsNPs have enormous potential for use as innovative, ecologically safe pesticides for O. formosanus control.
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Open AccessArticle
Facile Preparation of Magnetically Separable Fe3O4/ZnO Nanocomposite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity for Degradation of Rhodamine B
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Li Qi, Siyu Wang, Yun Liu, Peng Zhao, Jing Tian, Baolin Zhu, Shoumin Zhang, Wenqi Xie and Huanhuan Yu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110926 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Magnetic separation of photocatalysts holds great promise for water treatment. A magnetic separation method has a positive effect on the recovery of catalysts after degradation. In this paper, an efficient and reusable catalytic system is developed based on coating magnetic Fe3O
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Magnetic separation of photocatalysts holds great promise for water treatment. A magnetic separation method has a positive effect on the recovery of catalysts after degradation. In this paper, an efficient and reusable catalytic system is developed based on coating magnetic Fe3O4 by depositing Fe2+ on the surface of ZnO. The Fe3O4/ZnO nanocomposite exhibits enhanced performance for organic pollutant degradation. The Fe3O4/ZnO system demonstrates a high photocatalytic activity of 100% degradation efficiency in Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation under UV light irradiation for 50 min. The excellent photocatalytic activity is primarily due to the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs being facilitated by the strong interaction between Fe3O4 and ZnO. The induction of the magnetic Fe3O4 endows the Fe3O4/ZnO composite with superior magnetic separation capability from water. Experiments with different radical scavengers revealed that the hydroxyl radical (·OH) is the key reactive radical for the effective degradation of RhB. This work innovatively affords a common interfacial dopant deposition strategy for catalytic application in the degradation of organic dye pollutants and catalyst separation from wastewater efficiently.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
Open AccessArticle
High-Throughput Micro-Combinatorial TEM Phase Mapping of the DC Magnetron Sputtered YxTi1−xOy Thin Layer System
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Dániel Olasz, Viktória Kis, Ildikó Cora, Miklós Németh and György Sáfrán
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110925 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
High-throughput methods are extremely important in today’s materials science, especially in the case of thin film characterization. The micro-combinatorial method enables the deposition and characterization of entire multicomponent thin film systems within a single sample. In this paper, we report the application of
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High-throughput methods are extremely important in today’s materials science, especially in the case of thin film characterization. The micro-combinatorial method enables the deposition and characterization of entire multicomponent thin film systems within a single sample. In this paper, we report the application of this method for the comprehensive TEM characterization of the Y-Ti-O layer system. Variable composition samples (YxTi1−xOy) were prepared by dual DC magnetron sputtering, covering the entire (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) concentration range. The structure and morphology of phases formed in both as-deposited and annealed samples at 600, 700, and 800 °C were revealed as a function of Y-Ti composition (x). A comprehensive map showing the appropriate amorphous and crystalline phases, and their occurrence regions of the whole Y-Ti-O layer system, was revealed. Thanks to the applied method, it was shown with ease that at the given experimental conditions, the Y2Ti2O7 phase with a pyrochlore structure forms already at 700 °C without the TiO2 and Y2O3 by-phases, which is remarkably lower than the required temperature for most physical preparation methods, demonstrating the importance and benefits of creating phase maps in materials science and technology.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends and Prospects in Nanoscale Thin Films and Coatings)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Heat Treatment on Structure of Carbon Shell-Encapsulated Pt Nanoparticles for Fuel Cells
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Davletbaev Khikmatulla, Sourabh S. Chougule, Jiho Min, Keonwoo Ko, Yunjin Kim, Hyeonwoo Choi, Yoonseong Choi, Abhishek A. Chavan, Beomjun Pak, Ikromjon U. Rakhmonov and Namgee Jung
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110924 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted much attention as highly efficient, eco-friendly energy conversion devices. However, carbon-supported Pt (Pt/C) catalysts for PEMFCs still have several problems, such as low long-term stability, to be widely commercialized in fuel cell applications. To address
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Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted much attention as highly efficient, eco-friendly energy conversion devices. However, carbon-supported Pt (Pt/C) catalysts for PEMFCs still have several problems, such as low long-term stability, to be widely commercialized in fuel cell applications. To address the stability issues of Pt/C such as the dissolution, detachment, and agglomeration of Pt nanoparticles under harsh operating conditions, we design an interesting fabrication process to produce a highly active and durable Pt catalyst by introducing a robust carbon shell on the Pt surface. Furthermore, this approach provides insights into how to regulate the carbon shell layer for fuel cell applications. Through the application of an appropriate amount of H2 gas during heat treatment, the carbon shell pores, which are integral to the structure, can be systematically modulated to facilitate oxygen adsorption for the oxygen reduction reaction. Simultaneously, the carbon shell functions as a protective barrier, preventing catalyst degradation. In this regard, we investigate an in-depth analysis of the effects of critical parameters including H2 content and the flow rate of H2/N2 mixed gas during heat treatment to prepare better catalysts.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructure-Based Energy Electrocatalysis)
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Open AccessArticle
A Bulk Oxygen Vacancy Dominating WO3−x Photocatalyst for Carbamazepine Degradation
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Weiqing Guo, Qianhui Wei, Gangrong Li, Feng Wei and Zhuofeng Hu
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110923 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Creating oxygen vacancy in tungsten trioxide (WO3) has been considered as an effective strategy to improve the photocatalytic performance for degrading organic pollutants. In this study, oxygen vacancies were introduced into WO3 by thermal treatment under Ar atmosphere and their
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Creating oxygen vacancy in tungsten trioxide (WO3) has been considered as an effective strategy to improve the photocatalytic performance for degrading organic pollutants. In this study, oxygen vacancies were introduced into WO3 by thermal treatment under Ar atmosphere and their proportion was changed by setting different treatment times. WO3−x samples show better photoelectric properties and photocatalytic degradation performance for carbamazepine (CBZ) than an oxygen-vacancy-free sample, and WO3−x with the optimal proportion of oxygen vacancies is obtained by thermal treatment for 3 h in 550 °C. Furthermore, it discovers that the surface oxygen vacancies on WO3−x would be recovered when it is exposed to air, resulting in a bulk oxygen vacancy dominating WO3−x (bulk-WO3−x). The bulk-WO3−x exhibited much higher degradation efficiency for CBZ than WO3−x with both surface and bulk oxygen vacancies. The mechanism study shows bulk-WO3−x mainly degrades the CBZ by producing OH radicals and superoxide radicals, while oxygen-vacancy-free sample mainly oxidizes the CBZ by the photoexcited hole, which requires the CBZ to be adsorbed on the surface for degradation. The radical generated by bulk-WO3−x exhibits stronger oxidizing capacity by migrating to the solution for CBZ degradation. In summary, the influence of oxygen vacancy on photocatalytic degradation performance depends on both the proportion and location distribution and could lie in the optimization of the photodegradation mechanism. The results of this study could potentially broaden our understanding of the role of oxygen vacancies and provide optimal directions and methods for oxygen vacancy regulation for photocatalysts.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Nanosensors in Energy and Environment)
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Open AccessArticle
Stability of Graphene/Nafion Composite in PEM FC Electrodes
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Anna O. Krasnova, Nadezhda V. Glebova, Angelina G. Kastsova, Anna O. Pelageikina, Alexey V. Redkov, Maria V. Tomkovich and Andrey A. Nechitailov
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110922 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Ensuring the stable operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells is conducive to their real-world application. A promising direction for stabilizing electrodes is the stabilization of the ionomer via the formation of surface compounds with graphene. A comprehensive study of the (electrochemical, chemical,
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Ensuring the stable operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells is conducive to their real-world application. A promising direction for stabilizing electrodes is the stabilization of the ionomer via the formation of surface compounds with graphene. A comprehensive study of the (electrochemical, chemical, and thermal) stability of composites for fuel cell electrodes containing a modifying additive of few-layer graphene was carried out. Electrochemical stability was studied by cycling the potential on a disk electrode for 5000 cycles. Chemical stability was assessed via the resistance of the composites to H2O2 treatment using ion-selective potentiometry. Thermal stability was studied using differential thermal analysis. Composites were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, EDX, and SEM. It was shown that graphene inhibits Nafion degradation when exposed to heat. Contrariwise, Nafion is corrosive to graphene. During electrochemical and chemical exposure, the determining change for carbon-rich composites is the carbon loss (oxidation) of the carbon material. In the case of carbon-poor composites, the removal of fluorine and sulfur from the Nafion polymer with their partial replacement by oxygen prevails. In all cases, the F/S ratio is stable. The dispersity of Nafion in a sample affects its chemical stability more than the G/Nafion ratio does.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Applied to Fuel Cells and Catalysts)
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Open AccessArticle
Metal–Support Interaction in Pt Nanodisk–Carbon Nitride Catalyst: Insight from Theory and Experiment
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Esmail Doustkhah, Ahmed Kotb, Timuçin Balkan and Mohammad Hussein Naseef Assadi
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110921 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Metal–support interaction plays a critical role in determining the eventual catalytic activity of metals loaded on supporting substrates. This interaction can sometimes cause a significant drop in the metallic property of the loaded metal and, hence, a drop in catalytic activity in the
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Metal–support interaction plays a critical role in determining the eventual catalytic activity of metals loaded on supporting substrates. This interaction can sometimes cause a significant drop in the metallic property of the loaded metal and, hence, a drop in catalytic activity in the reactions, especially in those for which low charge carrier transfer resistance is a necessary parameter. Therefore, there should be a case-by-case experimental or theoretical (or both) in-depth investigation to understand the role of support on each metal. Here, onto a layered porous carbon nitride (g-CN), we grew single crystalline Pt nanodisks (Pt@g-CN) with a lateral average size of 21 nm, followed by various characterisations such as electron microscopy techniques, and the measurement of electrocatalytic activity in the O2 reduction reaction (ORR). We found that intercalating Pt nanodisks in the g-CN interlayers causes an increase in electrocatalytic activity. We investigated the bonding mechanism between carbon support and platinum using density functional theory and applied the d-band theory to understand the catalytic performance. Analysis of Pt’s density of states and electronic population across layers sheds light on the catalytic behaviour of Pt nanoparticles, particularly in relation to their thickness and proximity to the g-CN support interface. Our simulation reveals an optimum thickness of ~11 Å, under which the catalytic performance deteriorates.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials for Electrocatalytic Application)
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Open AccessArticle
Fabrication and Enhanced Performance Evaluation of TiO2@Zn/Al-LDH for DSSC Application: The Influence of Post-Processing Temperature
by
Altaf Hussain Rajpar, Mohamed Bashir Ali Bashir, Ethar Yahya Salih and Emad M. Ahmed
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110920 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
A sequence of dye-sensitized solar cells is proposed, utilizing TiO2@Zn/Al-layered double hydroxide (LDH) as their starting materials, in which Ruthenizer N719 was used as a photon absorber. The anticipated system was turned into sheet-like TiO2@mixed metal oxide (MMO) via
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A sequence of dye-sensitized solar cells is proposed, utilizing TiO2@Zn/Al-layered double hydroxide (LDH) as their starting materials, in which Ruthenizer N719 was used as a photon absorber. The anticipated system was turned into sheet-like TiO2@mixed metal oxide (MMO) via post-processing treatment. The crystal quality indicated a relation to power conversion efficiency (PCE); this was combined with a comparable morphology profile. In detail, the optimum DSSC device exhibited average sheet-like thickness and a dye loading amount of 43.11 nm and 4.28 mM/cm−2, respectively. Concurrently, a considerable PCE enhancement of the optimum DSSC device (TiO2@MMO-550°) was attained compared to pristine MMO (0.91%), which could be due to boosted electron transfer efficiency. Of the fabricated devices, DSSC fabricated at 550° exhibited the highest PCE (1.91%), with a 35.6% enhancement compared to that obtained at 450°, as a result of its increased open-circuit voltage (3.29 mA/cm2) and short-circuit current (0.81 V). The proposed work delivers an enhanced efficiency as compared to similar geometries.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Layered Nanomaterials and Heterostructures for Electronics, Optoelectronics and Sensing)
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Open AccessArticle
Controllable Pseudospin Topological Add-Drop Filter Based on Magnetic–Optical Photonic Crystals
by
Chao Yan, Yuhao Huang, Zhi-Yuan Li and Wenyao Liang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110919 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
We propose a controllable topological add-drop filter based on magnetic–optical photonic crystals. This add-drop filter is composed of two straight waveguides and a hexagonal photonic crystal ring resonator. The waveguide and ring resonator are constructed by three different honeycomb magnetic–optical photonic crystals. The
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We propose a controllable topological add-drop filter based on magnetic–optical photonic crystals. This add-drop filter is composed of two straight waveguides and a hexagonal photonic crystal ring resonator. The waveguide and ring resonator are constructed by three different honeycomb magnetic–optical photonic crystals. The expanded lattice is applied with an external magnetic field so that it breaks time-reversal symmetry and the analogous quantum spin Hall effect simultaneously. While the standard one and the compressed one are not magnetized and trivial, the straight waveguide supports pseudospin-down (or pseudospin-up) one-way states when the expanded lattice is applied with an external magnetic field of +H (or −H). The ring resonator possesses multiple resonant modes which can be divided into travelling modes and standing modes. By using the travelling modes, we have demonstrated the function of the add-drop filter and realized the output port control by changing the direction of the magnetic field. Moreover, a large tunable power ratio from near 0 to 52.6 is achieved by adjusting the strength of the external magnetic field. The structure has strong robustness against defects due to the topological protection property. These results have potential in wavelength division multiplexing systems and integrated topological optical devices.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Innovative Devices Using New-Emerging Micro and Nano Technologies)
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Research Progress of Single-Photon Emitters Based on Two-Dimensional Materials
by
Chengzhi Zhang, Zehuizi Gong, Dawei He, Yige Yan, Songze Li, Kun Zhao, Jiarong Wang, Yongsheng Wang and Xiaoxian Zhang
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110918 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
From quantum communications to quantum computing, single-photon emitters (SPEs) are essential components of numerous quantum technologies. Two-dimensional (2D) materials have especially been found to be highly attractive for the research into nanoscale light–matter interactions. In particular, localized photonic states at their surfaces have
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From quantum communications to quantum computing, single-photon emitters (SPEs) are essential components of numerous quantum technologies. Two-dimensional (2D) materials have especially been found to be highly attractive for the research into nanoscale light–matter interactions. In particular, localized photonic states at their surfaces have attracted great attention due to their enormous potential applications in quantum optics. Recently, SPEs have been achieved in various 2D materials, while the challenges still remain. This paper reviews the recent research progress on these SPEs based on various 2D materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), and twisted-angle 2D materials. Additionally, we summarized the strategies to create, position, enhance, and tune the emission wavelength of these emitters by introducing external fields into these 2D system. For example, pronounced enhancement of the SPEs’ properties can be achieved by coupling with external fields, such as the plasmonic field, and by locating in optical microcavities. Finally, this paper also discusses current challenges and offers perspectives that could further stimulate scientific research in this field. These emitters, due to their unique physical properties and integration potential, are highly appealing for applications in quantum information and communication, as well as other physical and technological fields.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optoelectronic Functional Nanomaterials and Devices)
Open AccessArticle
Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles and Halogen Bonding Interactions Involving Fentanyl and Fentanyl Derivatives
by
Molly M. Sherard, Jamie S. Kaplan, Jeffrey H. Simpson, Kevin W. Kittredge and Michael C. Leopold
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110917 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Fentanyl (FTN) and synthetic analogs of FTN continue to ravage populations across the globe, including in the United States where opioids are increasingly being used and abused and are causing a staggering and growing number of overdose deaths each year. This growing pandemic
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Fentanyl (FTN) and synthetic analogs of FTN continue to ravage populations across the globe, including in the United States where opioids are increasingly being used and abused and are causing a staggering and growing number of overdose deaths each year. This growing pandemic is worsened by the ease with which FTN can be derivatized into numerous derivatives. Understanding the chemical properties/behaviors of the FTN class of compounds is critical for developing effective chemical detection schemes using nanoparticles (NPs) to optimize important chemical interactions. Halogen bonding (XB) is an intermolecular interaction between a polarized halogen atom on a molecule and e−-rich sites on another molecule, the latter of which is present at two or more sites on most fentanyl-type structures. Density functional theory (DFT) is used to identify these XB acceptor sites on different FTN derivatives. The high toxicity of these compounds necessitated a “fragmentation” strategy where smaller, non-toxic molecules resembling parts of the opioids acted as mimics of XB acceptor sites present on intact FTN and its derivatives. DFT of the fragments’ interactions informed solution measurements of XB using 19F NMR titrations as well as electrochemical measurements of XB at self-assembled monolayer (SAM)-modified electrodes featuring XB donor ligands. Gold NPs, known as monolayer-protected clusters (MPCs), were also functionalized with strong XB donor ligands and assembled into films, and their interactions with FTN “fragments” were studied using voltammetry. Ultimately, spectroscopy and TEM analysis were combined to study whole-molecule FTN interactions with the functionalized MPCs in solution. The results suggested that the strongest XB interaction site on FTN, while common to most of the drug’s derivatives, is not strong enough to induce NP-aggregation detection but may be better exploited in sensing schemes involving films.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Applications of Gold Nanoparticles: 2nd Edition)
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Low Temperature (Down to 6 K) and Quantum Transport Characteristics of Stacked Nanosheet Transistors with a High-K/Metal Gate-Last Process
by
Xiaohui Zhu, Lei Cao, Guilei Wang and Huaxiang Yin
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(11), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14110916 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Silicon qubits based on specific SOI FinFETs and nanowire (NW) transistors have demonstrated promising quantum properties and the potential application of advanced Si CMOS devices for future quantum computing. In this paper, for the first time, the quantum transport characteristics for the next-generation
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Silicon qubits based on specific SOI FinFETs and nanowire (NW) transistors have demonstrated promising quantum properties and the potential application of advanced Si CMOS devices for future quantum computing. In this paper, for the first time, the quantum transport characteristics for the next-generation transistor structure of a stack nanosheet (NS) FET and the innovative structure of a fishbone FET are explored. Clear structures are observed by TEM, and their low-temperature characteristics are also measured down to 6 K. Consistent with theoretical predictions, greatly enhanced switching behavior characterized by the reduction of off-state leakage current by one order of magnitude at 6 K and a linear decrease in the threshold voltage with decreasing temperature is observed. A quantum ballistic transport, particularly notable at shorter gate lengths and lower temperatures, is also observed, as well as an additional bias of about 1.3 mV at zero bias due to the asymmetric barrier. Additionally, fishbone FETs, produced by the incomplete nanosheet release in NSFETs, exhibit similar electrical characteristics but with degraded quantum transport due to additional SiGe channels. These can be improved by adjusting the ratio of the channel cross-sectional areas to match the dielectric constants.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation, Modification and Devices Based on Low-Dimensional Materials)
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