Journal Description
Applied Nano
Applied Nano
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of application of nanoscience and nanotechnology, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 23.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
- Applied Nano is a companion journal of Nanomaterials.
Latest Articles
Experimental Characterization of Hydronic Air Coil Performance with Aluminum Oxide Nanofluids of Three Concentrations
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 84-107; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020008 - 11 Jun 2024
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This paper presents the continuation of experimental investigations conducted by the present authors to measure and compare the thermal and fluid dynamic performance of a residential hydronic air coil using nanofluids. The prior experiments were limited to testing only one volumetric concentration (1%)
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This paper presents the continuation of experimental investigations conducted by the present authors to measure and compare the thermal and fluid dynamic performance of a residential hydronic air coil using nanofluids. The prior experiments were limited to testing only one volumetric concentration (1%) of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanofluid. They compared it with the base fluid, a 60% ethylene glycol/40% water mixture by mass (60% EG). The original tests revealed some deficiencies in the experimental setup, which was subsequently revised and improved. This paper summarizes the results of experiments from the improved test bed using three concentrations of Al2O3 nanofluids: 1, 2, and 3% volumetric concentrations prepared with an average particle size of 45 nm in a 60% EG dispersion. The test bed in these experiments simulates a small air handling system typical of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) applications in cold regions. Entering conditions for the air and liquid were selected to emulate typical commercial air handling systems operating in cold climates. Contrary to previous findings, our test results revealed that nanofluids did not perform as well as expected. Prior predictions from many analytical and numerical studies had promised significant performance gain. The performance of the 1% nanofluid was generally equal to that of the base fluid under identical inlet conditions. However, the performance of the 2% and 3% nanofluids was considerably lower than that of the base fluid. The higher concentration nanofluids exhibited heat rates up to 14.6% lower than the 60% EG and up to 44.3% lower heat transfer coefficient. The 1% Al2O3/60% EG exhibited a 100% higher pressure drop across the coil than the base fluid, considering equal heat output. This performance degradation was attributed to the inability to maintain nanofluid dispersion stability, agglomeration, and subsequent decline in the thermophysical properties.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Black TiO2 and Oxygen Vacancies: Unraveling the Role in the Thermal Anatase-to-Rutile Transformation
by
Mattia Allieta, Mauro Coduri and Alberto Naldoni
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 72-83; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020007 - 3 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding the role of oxygen vacancies in the phase transformation of metal oxide nanomaterials is fundamental to design more efficient opto-electronic devices for a variety of applications, including sensing, spintronics, photocatalysis, and photo-electrochemistry. However, the structural mechanisms behind the phase transformation in reducible
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Understanding the role of oxygen vacancies in the phase transformation of metal oxide nanomaterials is fundamental to design more efficient opto-electronic devices for a variety of applications, including sensing, spintronics, photocatalysis, and photo-electrochemistry. However, the structural mechanisms behind the phase transformation in reducible oxides remain poorly described. Here, we compare P25 and black TiO2 during the thermal anatase-to-rutile transformation using in situ synchrotron powder diffraction. The precise measurement of the phase fractions, unit cell parameters, and Ti-O bond sheds light on the phase transformation dynamics. Notably, we observe distinct temperature-dependent shifts in the relative phase fractions of anatase and rutile in both materials highlighting the role of the oxygen vacancy in promoting the phase transformation. We employ bond valence concepts for structural modeling, revealing unique trends in temperature evolution of Ti-O distances of black rutile, confirming that this TiO2 phase is preferentially reduced over anatase. These findings not only enhance our understanding of phase transitions in TiO2 but also open new ways for the design of advanced photocatalytic materials through targeted phase control.
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Baccharis salicifolia Extract on Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in MCM-41@IONP and Its Application in Room-Temperature-Fabricated Metal–Insulator–Semiconductor Diodes
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Gerardo Miguel Bravo de Luciano, Blanca Susana Soto-Cruz, Anabel Romero-López, Yesmin Panecatl-Bernal, José Alberto Luna-López and Miguel Ángel Domínguez-Jiménez
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 58-71; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020006 - 26 Apr 2024
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This work presents the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using Baccharis salicifolia extract and their incorporation in mesoporous silica MCM-41, obtaining an MCM-41@IONP composite. The MCM-41@IONP composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nitrogen adsorption and desorption,
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This work presents the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using Baccharis salicifolia extract and their incorporation in mesoporous silica MCM-41, obtaining an MCM-41@IONP composite. The MCM-41@IONP composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nitrogen adsorption and desorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The use of the natural reducing agent Baccharis salicifolia resulted in nanoparticles with an average size of 31 nm. Furthermore, we showcase the application of the MCM-41@IONP nanocomposite in a metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) diode, which was fabricated at room temperature. The current–voltage and capacitance–voltage curves of the MIS diode were carefully measured and subjected to detailed analysis. The results demonstrate the potential utility of MCM-41@IONP nanocomposite-based MIS diodes, suggesting their applicability in the design of biosensors or as discrete components in electronic devices.
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Open AccessCommunication
Quantum Mechanical Comparison between Lithiated and Sodiated Silicon Nanowires
by
Donald C. Boone
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 48-57; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020005 - 1 Apr 2024
Abstract
This computational research study will compare the specific charge capacity (SCC) between lithium ions inserted into crystallized silicon (c-Si) nanowires with that of sodium ions inserted into amorphous silicon (a-Si) nanowires. It will be demonstrated that the potential energy V(r) within a lithium–silicon
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This computational research study will compare the specific charge capacity (SCC) between lithium ions inserted into crystallized silicon (c-Si) nanowires with that of sodium ions inserted into amorphous silicon (a-Si) nanowires. It will be demonstrated that the potential energy V(r) within a lithium–silicon nanowire supports a coherent energy state model with discrete electron particles, while the potential energy of a sodium–silicon nanowire will be discovered to be essentially zero, and, thus, the electron current that travels through a sodiated silicon nanowire will be modeled as a free electron with wave-like characteristics. This is due to the vast differences in the electric fields of lithiated and sodiated silicon nanowires, where the electric fields are of the order of V/m and V/m, respectively. The main reason for the great disparity in electric fields is the presence of optical amplification within lithium ions and the absence of this process within sodium ions. It will be shown that optical amplification develops coherent optical interactions, which is the primary reason for the surge of specific charge capacity in the lithiated silicon nanowire. Conversely, the lack of optical amplification is the reason for the incoherent optical interactions within sodium ions, which is the reason for the low presence of SCC in sodiated silicon nanowires.
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Open AccessArticle
Synthesis and Characterization of B4C-Based Multifunctional Nanoparticles for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy Applications
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Maria Paola Demichelis, Agustina Mariana Portu, Mario Alberto Gadan, Agostina Vitali, Valentina Forlingieri, Silva Bortolussi, Ian Postuma, Andrea Falqui, Elena Vezzoli, Chiara Milanese, Patrizia Sommi and Umberto Anselmi-Tamburini
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(2), 33-47; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5020004 - 25 Mar 2024
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Nanoparticles composed of inorganic boron-containing compounds represent a promising candidate as 10B carriers for BNCT. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and assessment of the biological activity of composite nanomaterials based on boron carbide (B4C). Boron carbide is a
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Nanoparticles composed of inorganic boron-containing compounds represent a promising candidate as 10B carriers for BNCT. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and assessment of the biological activity of composite nanomaterials based on boron carbide (B4C). Boron carbide is a compelling alternative to borated molecules due to its high volumetric B content, prolonged retention in biological systems, and low toxicity. These attributes lead to a substantial accumulation of B in tissues, eliminating the need for isotopically enriched compounds. In our approach, B4C nanoparticles were included in composite nanostructures with ultrasmall superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SPIONs), coated with poly (acrylic acid), and further functionalized with the fluorophore DiI. The successful internalization of these nanoparticles in HeLa cells was confirmed, and a significant uptake of 10B was observed. Micro-distribution studies were conducted using intracellular neutron autoradiography, providing valuable insights into the spatial distribution of the nanoparticles within cells. These findings strongly indicate that the developed nanomaterials hold significant promise as effective carriers for 10B in BNCT, showcasing their potential for advancing cancer treatment methodologies.
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Open AccessArticle
Nano Application of Oil Concentration Detection Using Double-Tooth Ring Plasma Sensing
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Lei Li, Shubin Yan, Yang Cui, Chuanhui Zhu, Taiquan Wu, Qizhi Zhang and Guowang Gao
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(1), 20-32; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5010003 - 23 Feb 2024
Abstract
Based on the unique properties of optical Fano resonance and plasmonic-waveguide coupling systems, this paper explores a novel refractive index concentration sensor structure. The sensor structure is composed of a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguide and two identically shaped and sized double-tooth ring couplers (DTR).
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Based on the unique properties of optical Fano resonance and plasmonic-waveguide coupling systems, this paper explores a novel refractive index concentration sensor structure. The sensor structure is composed of a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguide and two identically shaped and sized double-tooth ring couplers (DTR). The performance structure of the nanoscale refractive index sensor with DTR cavity was comprehensively assessed using the finite element method (FEM). Due to the impact of various geometric parameters on the sensing characteristics, including the rotation angles, the widths between the double-tooth rings, and the gaps between the cavity and the waveguide, we identified an optimal novel refractive index sensor structure that boasts the best performance indices. Finally, the DTR cavity sensor achieved a sensitivity of 4137 nm/RIU and Figure of merit (FOM) of 59.1. Given the high complexity and sensitivity of the overall structure, this nanoscale refractive index sensor can be applied to the detection of oil concentration in industrial oil–water mixtures, yielding highly precise results.
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Open AccessEditorial
Nanoscale Solutions: The Transformative Applications of Functionalized Nanomaterials in Environmental Remediation
by
Sara Cerra and Ilaria Fratoddi
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(1), 14-19; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5010002 - 31 Jan 2024
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Environmental pollution has become a pervasive and pressing issue in the modern world, mainly arising from human activities that release harmful substances into the air, water, and soil [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoscale Solutions: Transformative Applications of Functionalized Nanomaterials in Environmental Remediation)
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Open AccessArticle
Concurrent Thermal Reduction and Boron-Doped Graphene Oxide by Metal–Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition for Ultraviolet Sensing Application
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Beo Deul Ryu, Hyeon-Sik Jang, Kang Bok Ko, Min Han, Tran Viet Cuong, Chel-Jong Choi and Chang-Hee Hong
Appl. Nano 2024, 5(1), 1-13; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano5010001 - 28 Dec 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
We synthesized a boron-doped reduced graphene oxide (BrGO) material characterized by various electrical properties, through simultaneous thermal reduction and doping procedures, using a metal–organic chemical vapor deposition technique. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the impact of the doping level on
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We synthesized a boron-doped reduced graphene oxide (BrGO) material characterized by various electrical properties, through simultaneous thermal reduction and doping procedures, using a metal–organic chemical vapor deposition technique. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the impact of the doping level on the B bonding in the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) layer that is influenced by the annealing temperature. The synthesized BrGO layer demonstrated a high B concentration with a considerable number of O-B bonds, that were altered by annealing temperatures. This resulted in a decreased work function and the formation of a Schottky contact between the BrGO and n-type Si substrate. Due to the higher proportion of B-C and B-C3 bonding in the BrGO/Si device than that in the rGO/Si, the decreased Schottky barrier height of the BrGO/n-Si vertical junction photodetector resulted in a higher responsivity. This study showcases a promise of a simple B-doping method in use to alter the electrical characteristics of graphene materials.
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Open AccessArticle
Oral Delivery of mRNA by Liposomes Functionalized with Cell-Penetrating Peptides
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Valerie Dürr, Sabrina Wohlfart, Tom Eisenzapf, Walter Mier, Gert Fricker and Philipp Uhl
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(4), 293-308; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4040017 - 9 Nov 2023
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles, including liposomes, have emerged as promising vehicles for the delivery of a variety of therapeutics. Several formulations have been approved and are used in medical practice—the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines represent the most recent milestone. Achieving effective oral delivery would elevate the
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Lipid nanoparticles, including liposomes, have emerged as promising vehicles for the delivery of a variety of therapeutics. Several formulations have been approved and are used in medical practice—the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines represent the most recent milestone. Achieving effective oral delivery would elevate the potential of these formulations. Therefore, this study investigates the oral application of mRNA using liposomes as a nanocarrier system. A cyclic cell-penetrating peptide was coupled to the liposomal surface to allow uptake into the intestinal mucosal cells. The liposomes were loaded with mRNA (up to 112 µg/mL) and characterized in terms of their size (Z-average; 135.4 nm ± 1.1 nm), size distribution (polydispersity index (PDI); 0.213 ± 0.007 nm), surface charge (2.89 ± 0.27 mV), structure, lamellarity (multilamellar liposomes), and cargo capacity (>90%). The impact of freeze-drying and long-term storage of liposomal formulations was examined, and in vitro experiments on Caco-2 cells were conducted to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the liposomal formulations and demonstrate the uptake of the liposomes into cells. The efficiency of the formulations could be proven in vitro. When compared to control liposomes and 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP)-liposomes, the new formulations exhibited significantly enhanced uptake in Caco-2 cells, an immortalized epithelial cell line. Moreover, the cytocompatibility of the formulations could be proven by the absence of cytotoxic effects on the viability of Caco-2 cells. Hence, this liposomal drug delivery system holds significant promise for the oral delivery of mRNA.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Bioactive Nanomaterials for Antimicrobial and Antiviral Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Magnetron Sputter Deposition of Nanostructured AlN Thin Films
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Manohar Chirumamilla, Tobias Krekeler, Deyong Wang, Peter K. Kristensen, Martin Ritter, Vladimir N. Popok and Kjeld Pedersen
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(4), 280-292; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4040016 - 5 Oct 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Aluminum nitride (AlN) is a material of growing interest for power electronics, fabrication of sensors, micro-electromechanical systems, and piezoelectric generators. For the latter, the formation of nanowire arrays or nanostructured films is one of the emerging research directions. In the current work, nanostructured
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Aluminum nitride (AlN) is a material of growing interest for power electronics, fabrication of sensors, micro-electromechanical systems, and piezoelectric generators. For the latter, the formation of nanowire arrays or nanostructured films is one of the emerging research directions. In the current work, nanostructured AlN films manufactured with normal and glancing angle magnetron sputter depositions have been investigated with scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and optical spectroscopy. Growth of the nanostructures was realized utilizing metal seed particles (Ag, Au, and Al), allowing the control of the nucleation and following growth of AlN. It was demonstrated how variations of seed particle material and size can be used to tune the parameters of nanostructures and morphology of the AlN films. Using normal angle deposition allowed the growth of bud-shaped structures, which consisted of pillars/lamellae with wurtzite-like crystalline structures. Deposition at a glancing angle of 85° led to a film of individual nanostructures located near each other and tilted at an angle of 33° relative to the surface normal. Such films maintained a high degree of wurtzite-like crystallinity but had a more open structure and higher roughness than the nanostructured films grown at normal incidence deposition. The developed production strategies and recipes for controlling parameters of nanostructured films pave the way for the formation of matrices to be used in piezoelectric applications.
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Open AccessArticle
Revealing the Effects of Three Different Antimicrobial Agents on E. coli Biofilms by Using Soft-Probe Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy
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Sorour Darvishi and Hubert H. Girault
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(3), 260-279; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4030015 - 4 Sep 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
This paper evaluated the use of soft-probe scanning electrochemical microscopy complementarily with confocal laser scanning microscopy to study the effects of different antimicrobial agents and treatments on E. coli DH5α biofilm. The antimicrobial agents were sodium azide, silver nanoparticles, and a flashlight. The
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This paper evaluated the use of soft-probe scanning electrochemical microscopy complementarily with confocal laser scanning microscopy to study the effects of different antimicrobial agents and treatments on E. coli DH5α biofilm. The antimicrobial agents were sodium azide, silver nanoparticles, and a flashlight. The effects of these agents were monitored by measuring the change in biofilm properties, such as biofilm biomass, live/dead studies, and surface activity. The results showed that sodium azide, silver nanoparticles, and the flashlight effectively killed E. coli biofilms and explained the mode of action for each treatment. Sodium azide was more effective in killing the biofilm after a short treatment time by blocking the ATPase, while silver nanoparticles were more effective at killing the biofilm after longer treatment times through several antibiofilm actions. This work showed that scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) is a very valuable tool for studying the effects of antimicrobial agents on biofilms. SECM is a sensitive technique that can be used to monitor the changes in biofilm properties in real-time. Additionally, SECM does not require any sample preparation, which makes it a convenient and efficient technique. Overall, the results of this study could be used to develop new strategies for treating E. coli biofilm infections and provide valuable insights into the use of SECM to study the effects of antimicrobial agents on E. coli biofilms.
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Open AccessArticle
Fe3O4 Nanoparticles to Optimize the Co-Digestion of Vinasse, Filter Cake, and Deacetylation Liquor: Operational Aspects and Microbiological Routes
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Maria Paula Cardeal Volpi, Gustavo Mockaitis and Bruna de Souza Moraes
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(3), 240-259; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4030014 - 30 Aug 2023
Abstract
The present work proposes the optimization of the co-digestion of vinasse, filter cake, and deacetylation liquor in a continuous reactor by adding iron(III) oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs), comparing the results with a previous reactor operation without NPs. Initially, tests
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The present work proposes the optimization of the co-digestion of vinasse, filter cake, and deacetylation liquor in a continuous reactor by adding iron(III) oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs), comparing the results with a previous reactor operation without NPs. Initially, tests were carried out in batches with different NP concentrations, resulting in 5 mg L−1 as the best concentration to be added in the continuous reactor along the increments of the applied organic load rate (OLR). Methane (CH4) production reached a maximum value of 2.8 ± 0.1 NLCH4 gVS−1 (normal liter methane per gram of volatile solids), and the organic matter removal reached 71 ± 0.9% in phase VI (OLR of 5.5 gVS L−1 day−1). This production was 90% higher than the reactor co-digestion operation without NPs. The anaerobic digestion (AD) development was stable with stable organic acid (OA) concentrations, indicating the predominance of the propionic acid route to produce CH4. The main methanogenic Archaea identified was Methanoculleus, indicating that the predominant metabolic route was that of acetate (SAO) coupled with hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. The use of Fe3O4 NPs managed to improve the AD from the first-generation and second-generation (1G2G) ethanol production residues and stimulated microbial community growth, without modifying the preferable metabolic pathways.
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Biosynthesis and Characterization of Copper Nanoparticles Using a Bioflocculant Produced by a Yeast Pichia kudriavzevii Isolated from Kombucha Tea SCOBY
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Phakamani H. Tsilo, Albertus K. Basson, Zuzingcebo G. Ntombela, Nkosinathi G. Dlamini and Rajasekhar V. S. R. Pullabhotla
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(3), 226-239; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4030013 - 11 Aug 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
Over recent years, the ‘green’ chemistry approach to synthesizing nanoparticles has made significant developments. Because of their unique features, nanoparticles have received a lot of attention. The use of a bioflocculant to promote the environmentally friendly synthesis of copper nanoparticles is described in
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Over recent years, the ‘green’ chemistry approach to synthesizing nanoparticles has made significant developments. Because of their unique features, nanoparticles have received a lot of attention. The use of a bioflocculant to promote the environmentally friendly synthesis of copper nanoparticles is described in this paper. Copper nanoparticles were biosynthesized using bioflocculant which was produced from a yeast, Pichia kudriavzevii. The chemical reduction approach was used to synthesize copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using a bioflocculant as a capping agent. Characterization of the as-synthesized copper nanoparticles was conducted using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The FT-IR spectra revealed characteristic peaks at 3267, 2956, 1656, 1059, and 511 cm−1 for the bioflocculant, while for the bioflocculant passivated CuNPs, the characteristic peaks were at 3482 (-OH), 3261, 1640, 1059, 580, and 519 cm−1 (Cu-O). These peaks revealed that functional groups such as hydroxyls, amines, and copper oxide bonds were present. The UV-Vis analysis showed surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at an absorbance range of 500–600 nm, with peak maxima at 555 and 575 nm for the as-synthesized CuNPs. The XRD pattern revealed planes such as (200) and (220) at 2θ = 43 and 52°, and the particle size (30 nm) was determined by the Debye–Scherrer equation. The transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed a spherical-shaped particle with an average size of 20 nm. The EDX analysis of the as-synthesized CuNPs revealed the presence of the element Cu, which was not present in the EDX image of the bioflocculant used in the synthesis of the CuNPs; this indicated the success of biosynthesis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Bioactive Nanomaterials for Antimicrobial and Antiviral Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of the Cross-Section Morphology in the Antimicrobial Properties of α-Ag2WO4 Rods: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
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Nivaldo F. Andrade Neto, Marisa C. Oliveira, José Heriberto O. Nascimento, Elson Longo, Renan A. P. Ribeiro, Mauricio R. D. Bomio and Fabiana V. Motta
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(3), 213-225; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4030012 - 31 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
In this work, α-Ag2WO4 particles with different cross-sections were obtained using the co-precipitation method at different synthesis temperatures. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The antimicrobial activity was analyzed
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In this work, α-Ag2WO4 particles with different cross-sections were obtained using the co-precipitation method at different synthesis temperatures. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The antimicrobial activity was analyzed using the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) methods against the Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. gram-negative bacteria. The antimicrobial tests against Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. indicated that concentrations of 2.5–5 mg/mL and 5 mg/mL completely inhibit its growth, respectively. The antimicrobial activity was analyzed employing band-edge positions for ROS generations and the superficial distribution of Ag+ species that contribute to antimicrobial activity. Quantum-chemical calculations were used at the DFT level to investigate the surface-dependent reactivity of α-Ag2WO4, and we demonstrated how the antimicrobial properties could be tailored by the geometry and electronic structure of the exposed surfaces, providing guidelines for the morphology design.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Bioactive Nanomaterials for Antimicrobial and Antiviral Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Characterization of Magnetic Nanoparticles from the Shells of Freshwater Mussel L. fortunei and Marine Mussel P. perna
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Antonio Valadão Cardoso, Clara Carvalho Souza, Maria Sylvia Dantas, Camila Schults Machado, Erico Tadeu Freitas, Alisson Krohling, Veronica Martins Rosario, Giancarlo Ubaldo Nappi and Luiz Dias Heneine
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(3), 191-212; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4030011 - 10 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
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Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles were extracted from the shells of freshwater Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1857) and marine Perna perna (Linnaeus 1758) mussels, followed by full physical and chemical characterization using ICP-OES, UV–Vis, EDX, Raman, and XRD spectroscopy, VSM magnetometry, and
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Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles were extracted from the shells of freshwater Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1857) and marine Perna perna (Linnaeus 1758) mussels, followed by full physical and chemical characterization using ICP-OES, UV–Vis, EDX, Raman, and XRD spectroscopy, VSM magnetometry, and SEM and TEM techniques. Considering their spatial distribution, the ferrimagnetic particles in the shells had low concentration and presented superparamagnetic behavior characteristics of materials of nanometric size. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM, especially HRTEM) indicated round magnetic particles around 100 nm in size, which were found to be aggregates of nanoparticles about 5 nm in size. The TEM data indicated no iron oxide particles at the periostracum layer. Nevertheless, roughly round iron (hydr)oxide nanoparticle aggregates were found in the nacre, namely, the aragonite layer. As the aragonite layer is responsible for more than 97% of the shell of L. fortunei and considering the estimated size of the magnetic nanoparticles, we infer that these particles may be distributed homogeneously throughout the shell.
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Open AccessArticle
Electrochemical Synthesis and Application of Ge-Sn-O Nanostructures as Anodes of Lithium-Ion Batteries
by
Ilya M. Gavrilin, Yulia O. Kudryashova, Maksim M. Murtazin, Ilia I. Tsiniaikin, Alexander V. Pavlikov, Tatiana L. Kulova and Alexander M. Skundin
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 178-190; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020010 - 7 Jun 2023
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This work demonstrates the possibility of electrochemical formation of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures from aqueous solutions containing germanium dioxide and tin (II) chloride at room temperature without prior deposition of fusible metal particles. This method does not require complex technological equipment, expensive and toxic germanium
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This work demonstrates the possibility of electrochemical formation of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures from aqueous solutions containing germanium dioxide and tin (II) chloride at room temperature without prior deposition of fusible metal particles. This method does not require complex technological equipment, expensive and toxic germanium precursors, or binding additives. These advantages will make it possible to obtain such structures on an industrial scale (e.g., using roll-to-roll technology). The structural properties and composition of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The samples obtained represent a filamentary structure with a diameter of about 10 nm. Electrochemical studies of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures were studied by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic cycling. Studies of the processes of lithium-ion insertion/extraction showed that the obtained structures have a practical discharge capacity at the first cycle ~625 mAh/g (specific capacity ca. 625 mAh/g). However, the discharge capacity by cycle 30 was no more than 40% of the initial capacity. The obtained results would benefit the further design of Ge-Sn-O nanostructures formed by simple electrochemical deposition.
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Open AccessArticle
Production and Properties of Quercetin-Loaded Liposomes and Their Influence on the Properties of Galactomannan-Based Films
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Priscilla Barbosa Sales de Albuquerque, Marthyna Pessoa de Souza, Ana Isabel Bourbon, Miguel A. Cerqueira, Lorenzo Pastrana, Paula Jauregi, José A. Teixeira and Maria das Graças Carneiro-da-Cunha
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 159-177; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020009 - 31 May 2023
Abstract
The objective of this work was to prepare different concentrations of liposomes based on lecithin containing quercetin, and evaluate their effect on the properties of galactomannan films obtained from Cassia grandis seeds. Quercetin-loaded lecithin liposomes (QT-LL) were obtained by the ethanol injection method
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The objective of this work was to prepare different concentrations of liposomes based on lecithin containing quercetin, and evaluate their effect on the properties of galactomannan films obtained from Cassia grandis seeds. Quercetin-loaded lecithin liposomes (QT-LL) were obtained by the ethanol injection method by incorporating quercetin in different concentrations in a previously prepared suspension of lecithin liposomes in water. Following characterization of QT-LLs by zeta potential and dynamic light scattering, QT-LL with 75 µg quercetin/mL suspension was incorporated at different concentrations in galactomannan films. The films obtained were characterized for color, solubility, moisture content (MC), water vapor permeability (WVP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The size of lecithin liposomes with no quercetin was statistically than those containing quercetin above 50 µg/mL. All the QT-LLs presented a low polydispersity index, even considering their significant differences and similar values for zeta potential. The films displayed a rough surface and the galactomannan structure was confirmed by FTIR. Additionally, the amorphous nature of the polysaccharide was observed by XRD. The films were luminous, with a predominant yellow tendency and low opacity. The incorporation of QT-LL in galactomannan films did not lead to statistical differences for solubility and MC, while significant differences were observed for WVP. Galactomannan films were shown to be a promising structure for the incorporation of lecithin liposomes loaded with quercetin, pointing at promising applications for different applications.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Preparation and Application of Polymer Nanocomposites)
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Open AccessReview
Corrosion-Resisting Nanocarbon Nanocomposites for Aerospace Application: An Up-to-Date Account
by
Ayesha Kausar, Ishaq Ahmad and Tingkai Zhao
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 138-158; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020008 - 12 May 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
The design and necessity of corrosion-resisting nanocarbon nanocomposites have been investigated for cutting-edge aerospace applications. In this regard, nanocarbon nanofillers, especially carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanodiamond, etc. have been used to fill in various polymeric matrices (thermosets, thermoplastics, and conducting polymers) to develop anti-rusting
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The design and necessity of corrosion-resisting nanocarbon nanocomposites have been investigated for cutting-edge aerospace applications. In this regard, nanocarbon nanofillers, especially carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanodiamond, etc. have been used to fill in various polymeric matrices (thermosets, thermoplastics, and conducting polymers) to develop anti-rusting space-related nanocomposites. This review fundamentally emphases the design, anti-corrosion properties, and application of polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposites for the space sector. An electron-conducting network is created in the polymers with nanocarbon dispersion to assist in charge transportation, and thus in the polymers’ corrosion resistance features. The corrosion resistance mechanism depends upon the formation of tortuous diffusion pathways due to nanofiller arrangement in the matrices. Moreover, matrix–nanofiller interactions and interface formation play an important role in enhancing the corrosion protection properties. The anticorrosion nanocomposites were tested for their adhesion, contact angle, and impedance properties, and NaCl tests and scratch tests were carried out. Among the polymers, epoxy was found to be superior corrosion-resisting polymer, relative to the thermoplastic polymers in these nanocomposites. Among the carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanodiamond, the carbon nanotube with a loading of up to 7 wt.% in the epoxy matrix was desirable for corrosion resistance. On the other hand, graphene contents of up to 1 wt.% and nanodiamond contents of 0.2–0.4 wt.% were desirable to enhance the corrosion resistance of the epoxy matrix. The impedance, anticorrosion, and adhesion properties of epoxy nanocomposites were found to be better than those of the thermoplastic materials. Despite the success of nanocarbon nanocomposites in aerospace applications, thorough research efforts are still needed to design high-performance anti-rusting materials to completely replace the use of metal components in the aerospace industry.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers for Applied Nano)
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Open AccessArticle
Growth of New, Optically Active, Semi-Organic Single Crystals Glycine-Copper Sulphate Doped by Silver Nanoparticles
by
Rasmiah Saad A. Almufarij, Alaa El-Deen Ali, Mohamed Elsayed Elba, Howida Eid Okab, Ollaa Moftah Mailoud, Hamida Abdel-Hamid and Howida Abouel Fetouh Elsayed
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 115-137; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020007 - 18 Apr 2023
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to modify all physicochemical properties of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals, such as crystal habits, molar mass, thermal stability, optical activity, and electrical properties. The novelty of this study is growth of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals doped by
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The purpose of this study is to modify all physicochemical properties of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals, such as crystal habits, molar mass, thermal stability, optical activity, and electrical properties. The novelty of this study is growth of glycine–copper sulphate single crystals doped by a low concentration of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) that improved both crystal habits and physicochemical properties. The originality of this work is that trace amounts of SNPs largely increased the crystal size. Crystals have molar stoichiometric formula [glycine]0.95, [CuSO4·5H2O]0.05 in the absence and presence of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in different concentrations: 10 ppm, 20 ppm, and 30 ppm. The crystals’ names and abbreviations are: glycine–copper sulphate (GCS), glycine–copper sulphate doped by 10 ppm SNPs (GCSN1), glycine–copper sulphate doped by 20 ppm SNPs (GCSN2), and glycine–copper sulphate doped by 30 ppm SNPs (GCSN3). Dopant silver nanoparticles increased: crystallinity reflecting purity, transparency to UV-Vis. electromagnetic radiation, thermal stability, and melting point of glycine–copper sulphate single crystal. GCSN3 is a super conductor. High thermal conductivity of crystals ranging from 1.1 W·min−1·K−1 to 1.6 W·min−1·K−1 enabled attenuation of electromagnetic radiation and rapid heat dissipation due to good dielectric and polar properties. On rising temperature, AC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of perfect crystal GCSN3 increased confirmed attenuation of thermal infrared radiation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Electronic and Optical Properties of Nanostructures)
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Potential Applications of Core-Shell Nanoparticles in Construction Industry Revisited
by
Ghasan Fahim Huseien
Appl. Nano 2023, 4(2), 75-114; https://doi.org/10.3390/applnano4020006 - 7 Apr 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
The demand of high performance and environmentally sustainable construction materials is ever-increasing in the construction industry worldwide. The rapid growth of nanotechnology and diverse nanomaterials’ accessibility has provided an impulse for the uses of smart construction components like nano-alumina, nano-silica, nano-kaolin, nano-titanium, and
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The demand of high performance and environmentally sustainable construction materials is ever-increasing in the construction industry worldwide. The rapid growth of nanotechnology and diverse nanomaterials’ accessibility has provided an impulse for the uses of smart construction components like nano-alumina, nano-silica, nano-kaolin, nano-titanium, and so forth Amongst various nanostructures, the core-shell nanoparticles (NPs) have received much interests for wide applications in the field of phase change materials, energy storage, high performance pigments, coating agents, self-cleaning and self-healing systems, etc., due to their distinct properties. Through the fine-tuning of the shells and cores of NPS, various types of functional materials with tailored properties can be achieved, indicating their great potential for the construction applications. In this perception, this paper overviewed the past, present and future of core-shell NPs-based materials that are viable for the construction sectors. In addition, several other applications of the core-shell NPs in the construction industries are emphasized and discussed. Considerable benefits of the core-shell NPs for pigments, phase change components, polymer composites, and self-cleaning glasses with enhanced properties are also underlined. Effect of high performance core-shell NPs type, size and content on the construction materials sustainability are highlighted.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Core-Shell Nanostructures for Functional Applications)
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