Light-Driven On-Surface Synthesis: Mechanisms, Strategies, and Architectures
Cryogenic Electron Microscopy of Extracellular Vesicles from Temozolomide-Treated Glioblastoma Cells Reveals Great Morphological Heterogeneity
Structural Properties and Energy Band Alignment of Crystalline AlN Grown by Atomic Layer Deposition on Epitaxial Graphene
Stress Engineering in the Optimization of Next-Generation Hafnium-Based Ferroelectric Memory
Phytochemical-Loaded Biodegradable Nanoemulsions for Eradication of Fungal Biofilms

Journal Description

Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials is an international, interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal published semimonthly online by MDPI, and that 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 applications. The Spanish Carbon Group (GEC) and The Chinese Society of Micro-Nano Technology (CSMNT) are 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 - Q2 (Physics, Applied) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Chemical Engineering )
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 12.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2026).
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: 4.8 (2025); 5-Year Impact Factor: 5.1 (2025)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2079-4991

Latest Articles

21 pages, 1780 KB

Open AccessReview

Plant-Mediated Nanomaterials for Photoprotection: Mechanistic Insights, Current Advances, and Future Perspectives

by Nahid Moradi and Richard Bright

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160988 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major environmental factor contributing to photoaging, oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and photocarcinogenesis. Conventional UV filters, although widely used in sunscreen formulations, are associated with limitations including photoinstability, photocatalytic ROS generation, potential toxicity, and environmental concerns. In recent years, plant-mediated nanomaterials have emerged as promising multifunctional photoprotective systems, combining UV attenuation with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and biologically adaptive properties. Plant extracts are increasingly used as reducing and stabilising agents in the green synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. Among these, ZnO and TiO₂ serve as established inorganic UV filters, whereas Ag and Au nanoparticles have primarily been investigated for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and ROS-modulating properties, which may indirectly enhance photoprotection. In parallel, plant-derived organic nanoparticles and herbal nanocomposites have demonstrated enhanced biocompatibility and multifunctional performance. This review critically examines the current landscape of plant-mediated photoprotective nanomaterials, focusing on the mechanistic interplay among optical UV attenuation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulation, and cellular signalling regulation. Particular emphasis is placed on structure–function relationships governing nanoparticle size, surface chemistry, bandgap properties, antioxidant behaviour, and biological interactions. The review further discusses translational challenges, including reproducibility, standardisation, scalability, long-term safety, regulatory classification, and limitations in benchmarking. Importantly, current evidence suggests that no single material system simultaneously optimises UV-blocking efficiency, ROS control, biocompatibility, and industrial scalability, highlighting the need for multifunctional hybrid design strategies. Finally, future perspectives involving predictive nanoengineering, computational modelling, machine learning-guided optimisation, and adaptive photoprotective systems are discussed as emerging directions for next-generation sustainable photoprotective technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Medicine and Healthcare (Second Edition))

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17 pages, 17883 KB

Open AccessArticle

Controllable Preparation and Enhancement Mechanism of Al₂O₃ Nanomaterial-Modified Ultrafine Cement Composite Grouting Materials

by Xiang Cheng, Chaoyu Tian, Yanfen Wang, Guangming Zhao, Gangzheng Liu, Yingming Li, Xiangrui Meng and Lianqin Ni

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160987 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Using ultrafine silicate cement as the cementitious material, and admixtures such as expansion agent, rapid-setting agent and water reducer as additives, a new type of composite grouting material with high early strength and high toughness was obtained by modification with nano-Al₂O₃ (NA). The influence of NA content on the mechanical properties, flowability, bleeding behavior, setting time, volume shrinkage, and microstructure was investigated for composite grouting materials. The results show that, as the NA content increases, the flowability of the paste decreases, the bleeding rate reduces, and the setting time increases first and then decreases. Appropriate NA can effectively improve the mechanical strength of the composite grouting material. Especially at the condition of 3% NA, the composite grouting material reached the highest early compressive strength and toughness. Compared with the control group, the compressive strength of the specimen increases by 39.54% and 6.83% respectively at 1 d and 21 d, and the flexural strength increased by 55.41% at 1 d. XRD, FTIR, SEM and hydration heat analysis confirm that the NA can promote the early hydration heat of ultrafine cement, and shorten the induction period. Moreover, more C-A-H gel products will be generated by consuming Ca(OH)₂ with active NA, leading to an improvement in the matrix compactness. Such an outstanding mechanical property can be mainly attributed to the triple coupling mechanism of the hydration regulation, microstructure and filling effect of superfine cement by nano-Al₂O₃ in combination with multi-component admixtures. Full article

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1 pages, 134 KB

Open AccessRetraction

RETRACTED: Nabwey et al. A Comprehensive Review of Nanofluid Heat Transfer in Porous Media. Nanomaterials 2023, 13, 937

by Hossam A. Nabwey, Taher Armaghani, Behzad Azizimehr, Ahmed M. Rashad and Ali J. Chamkha

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160986 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

The journal retracts the article, “A Comprehensive Review of Nanofluid Heat Transfer in Porous Media” [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nanofluids in Renewable Energy Engineering)

11 pages, 2784 KB

Open AccessArticle

Angle-Insensitive Defect-Mode Absorption in Photonic Crystals Containing Hyperbolic Metamaterials

by Mingyang Liu, Guang Lu and Bing Wang

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160985 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Omnidirectional optical devices are essential for photodetection, thermal radiation regulation, and solar energy harvesting. However, the photonic bandgaps and defect modes of conventional one-dimensional photonic crystals (1DPCs) are constrained by the Bragg scattering condition, leading to strong angular dependence that substantially limits their practical applications over wide angle ranges. In this work, we theoretically design and experimentally verify an angle-insensitive photonic crystal defect-mode absorber based on hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs). Leveraging the unique isofrequency dispersion of HMMs, we introduce a phase compensation mechanism into a photonic crystal composed of alternating HMM and dielectric layers. Calculations show that inserting a metallic defect layer excites a highly localized defect mode within the bandgap, whose resonant wavelength remains almost unchanged with incident angle. To simplify fabrication and enhance absorption, we reduce the number of periods and design a heterostructure containing subwavelength Ag/TiO₂ multilayers. Measurements under TM polarization over 0–70° show that the defect-mode peak shifts by only 3.5 nm, while the absorptance decreases from ~0.717 at normal incidence to ~0.292 at 70°. This study provides an effective strategy for designing and fabricating resonance wavelength angle-insensitive optical absorbers enabled by HMM-based phase compensation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for High-Performance Photodetectors)

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15 pages, 16200 KB

Open AccessArticle

Construction of an S-Scheme ZnIn₂S₄/C₃N₄ Heterostructure for Photocatalytic H₂O₂ Generation: Performance Evaluation and Mechanistic Insights

by Yangfan Du, Guanglong Jing, Keyi Han, Xin Zhang, Liang Hou and Yong Li

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160984 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

The global demand for hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) continues to increase, and photocatalytic H₂O₂ production is regarded as a promising alternative technology due to its mild, safe, and environmentally friendly characteristics. ZnIn₂S₄ has demonstrated promising application potential in photocatalytic H₂O₂ production owing to its unique two-dimensional layered structure and broad spectral response. However, its performance is severely limited by rapid charge recombination and sluggish charge migration. To address this challenge, a ZnIn₂S₄/C₃N₄ S-scheme heterojunction was successfully constructed via a simple oil-bath method by assembling ZnIn₂S₄ nanoflowers on C₃N₄ nanosheets. Systematic structural characterizations and performance evaluations demonstrate that the construction of the S-scheme heterojunction effectively promotes the spatial separation and surface migration of photogenerated charge carriers, thereby significantly enhancing photocatalytic activity. Under optimal conditions, the ZIS/CN-10 sample (C₃N₄ to ZnIn₂S₄ mass ratio of 10%) achieves the highest photocatalytic H₂O₂ production rate of 825.8 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹. This work provides new insights and theoretical guidance for the rational design of efficient and stable ZnIn₂S₄-based photocatalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developments in Photocatalysts and Photocatalytic Activity of Nanocomposite Materials)

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13 pages, 6593 KB

Open AccessArticle

Catalytic Performance of AAEM-Loaded Biochars for Regulating Anhydrosugar Formation During Cellulose Pyrolysis

by Guang Hu, Tingting Zhou, Yuxin Wei, Kuankuan Liu, Jing Tang and Junqi Wang

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160983 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Biochar has attracted increasing attention as a low-cost catalyst for biomass pyrolysis due to its developed pore structure, abundant surface functional groups and tunable physicochemical properties. In this study, biochars loaded with alkali and alkaline earth metal (AAEM) species were prepared by pyrolyzing cellulose impregnated with different chloride and acetate salts, including NaCl, KCl, CaCl₂, MgCl₂, CH₃COONa, CH₃COOK, (CH₃COO)₂Ca and (CH₃COO)₂Mg. The resulting AAEM-loaded biochars were subsequently employed as catalysts for cellulose pyrolysis to investigate their effects on product distribution, particularly levoglucosan (LG) and levoglucosenone (LGO) formation. SEM and XRD analyses revealed that the AAEM precursor significantly affected the morphology and phase composition of the biochars. Chloride-derived biochars retained crystalline salt phases or formed corresponding metal oxides, whereas acetate-derived biochars exhibited more dispersed metal-containing species. The introduction of AAEM-loaded biochars generally decreased bio-oil and LG yields while increasing char production, indicating enhanced secondary cracking and repolymerization reactions. Among the investigated catalysts, alkali metal-loaded biochars exhibited stronger inhibition toward LG formation than alkaline earth metal-loaded biochars. The catalytic effects followed the order of C-KCl ≈ C-NaCl > C-MgCl₂ > C-CaCl₂ for chloride-derived biochars and C-CH₃COOK ≈ C-CH₃COONa > C-(CH₃COO)₂Mg > C-(CH₃COO)₂Ca for acetate-derived biochars. Notably, C-(CH₃COO)₂Ca and C-(CH₃COO)₂Mg slightly promoted LGO formation, which was attributed to the synergistic effects of alkaline earth metal species, surface oxygen-containing functional groups and acetate-derived intermediates on dehydration reactions. Thermogravimetric and kinetic analyses further demonstrated that AAEM-loaded biochars reduced the apparent activation energy of cellulose pyrolysis and facilitated thermal decomposition. These findings provide new insights into the catalytic role of AAEM-loaded biochars and suggest a promising strategy for regulating anhydrosugar selectivity, particularly for the production of high-value LGO from biomass pyrolysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Biomass-Based Materials for Energy Storage and Environmental Remediation)

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12 pages, 3183 KB

Open AccessArticle

Raman Study of Central Metals and Substituents Effects on Metal Phthalocyanines

by Xiaofang Zhang, Dongliang Tian and Rongming Wang

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160982 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Metal phthalocyanines (MPcs) possess outstanding thermal stability and versatile optical, catalytic, and semiconducting properties. Here, the effects of central metal ions, peripheral substituents, and substitution positions on the vibrational properties of MPcs were systematically investigated using Raman spectroscopy. The characteristic Raman band near 1530 cm⁻¹ exhibits systematic shifts with changing metal centers (NiPc > CoPc > CuPc > ZnPc), reflecting differences in metal-ligand interactions and electronic structure. Peripheral substituents and their positions further influence the Raman response through electronic effects, vibrational coupling, and resonance enhancement. In particular, four-substituted MPcs show greater Raman shifts than their three-substituted counterparts. The results reveal clear correlations between molecular structure and Raman characteristics, providing a useful framework for understanding and designing functional phthalocyanine-based materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)

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22 pages, 8078 KB

Open AccessReview

Reinforcement Learning for Cathode Material Design Through Sequential Decision-Making Frameworks

by Taimoor Muzaffar Gondal, Muhammad Qasim and Yasir Arafat

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160981 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

The cathode material design is a persistent challenge in the development of next-generation rechargeable batteries. The cathode performance is critically influenced by certain key parameters, i.e., composition, crystal structures, ion transport, and degradation behaviour. Moreover, techno-economic and sustainable considerations also play a pivotal role in the viable cathode material design. In recent years, the integration of static machine learning models with conventional experimental techniques has significantly enhanced the cathode material design. However, the sequential nature of cathode discovery has not been fully captured by these techniques as they do not update their decision strategy based on prior outcomes. In this review, reinforcement learning (RL) as a decision making technique for cathode material design has been evaluated. Firstly, cathode design space, including major cathode families, optimisation objectives, and key material variables have been explored. Afterwards, cathode discovery has been presented in terms of RL states, actions, rewards, policies, environments, constraints, and feedback. The key focus of this review is to analyse how RL can support the composition selection, dopant, and crystal structure optimisation. The review also discusses the current limitations of RL based cathode design including data scarcity, dataset bias, limited cathode specific benchmarks, reward function design, physical validity, and experimental validations. The future directions have been proposed for physics informed and experimentally validated RL infrastructure that integrates the density functional theory, molecular dynamics, artificial intelligence and human expertise. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for High-Performance Batteries and Electrocatalytic Energy Conversion Systems)

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27 pages, 1952 KB

Open AccessReview

Smart Adsorption-Based Nanocatalysts for Active Food Packaging: A Critical Look at the Gap Between Concept and Application

by Amir Khojastehnezhad, Maziar Jafari, Fatemeh S. Mohseni-Shahri, Farid Moeinpour and Mohamed Siaj

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160980 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Conventional food packaging cannot actively regulate spoilage-related molecules such as ethylene and volatile organic compounds that accumulate inside sealed packages. Smart adsorption based nanocatalysts (SABNs) integrate adsorptive scaffolds, catalytic centers, and stimuli responsive triggers to progressively remove these spoilage markers. This review establishes a unified three pillar framework and critically examines how adsorption, catalytic degradation, and regeneration cycles are proposed to function under food-relevant conditions. Across major food categories, reported photocatalytic systems achieve ethylene removal efficiencies of 50% to 90% and extend shelf life by 1 to 5 days under controlled light and temperature. However, performance declines sharply under the dark, humid, and refrigerated conditions typical of real supply chains. A systematic evidence level grading of twelve representative SABN systems reveals that the majority cluster at levels L³ and L⁴, while none has yet reached level L⁵, which requires both standardized migration testing and sensory evaluation. Key barriers, including nanoparticle migration, fragmented regulation, scalability, and life-cycle impacts, are assessed. By introducing explicit inclusion/exclusion criteria and a six-level evidence grading framework, this review maps critical gaps in migration data and cold-chain validation and outlines a staged roadmap toward regulation-ready active packaging technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)

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Graphical abstract

19 pages, 3295 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Juglone/Mesoporous Carbon Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Ultrasensitive Determination of Melatonin in Dietary Supplements

by Joanna Smajdor-Baran and Katarzyna Fendrych

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160979 - 10 Aug 2026

Abstract

A novel electrochemical sensing platform based on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with a juglone/mesoporous carbon composite (JUG-MC/GCE) was developed for the ultrasensitive determination of melatonin (MEL) in pharmaceutical formulations and dietary supplements. Incorporation of juglone and mesoporous carbon within the coating deposited on the glassy carbon electrode, resulted in enhanced charge-transfer characteristics at the electrode–electrolyte interface. Under optimized differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) conditions in a 0.1 mol L⁻¹ McIlvaine buffer (pH 2.8), the proposed sensor demonstrated an exceptional electrocatalytic response for melatonin oxidation via a two-electron, one-proton irreversible pathway under kinetic control. The analytical performance reveal multiple linear calibration intervals with an ultra-low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.21 µg L⁻¹ (0.9 nM). The sensor manifested robust operational repeatability (RSD ≤ 1.8%), long-term storage stability, and satisfactory selectivity toward melatonin in the presence of common tablet excipients and selected potential interferents. The practical utility of the JUG-MC/GCE platform was successfully validated through the direct quantification of melatonin in commercial tablets, capsules, and complex jelly matrices, confirming its suitability for melatonin determination in real samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrochemical Nanosensors for Environmental and Food Analysis)

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12 pages, 1375 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fast Neutron-Induced Enhancement of the I8 Exciton Emission in ZnO Bulk Single Crystals

by Mohammad M. Zeidan and Sufian Abedrabbo

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160978 - 9 Aug 2026

Abstract

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a wide-bandgap semiconductor with important optoelectronic, photonic, and radiation-related applications. In this work, hydrothermally grown ZnO bulk single crystals were irradiated with fast neutrons and characterized using low-temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy to investigate irradiation-induced changes in the Ga-related donor-bound exciton (I₈). The Zn-polar surfaces were exposed to fast neutrons for irradiation durations of 2 and 5 min. The PL measurements showed a reproducible enhancement of the Ga-related I₈ emission intensity, with increases of approximately 33% after 2 min and 82% after 5 min relative to the unirradiated reference crystal. The selective enhancement of the I₈ emission is consistent with increased Ga-related donor activity associated with the proposed Zn-to-Ga neutron transmutation mechanism, although irradiation-induced defect formation and redistribution may also contribute to the observed optical response. Under the irradiation conditions investigated, fast-neutron exposure produced substantial enhancement of the I₈ emission within only a few minutes. However, direct quantitative comparison with previously reported slow-neutron irradiation should be interpreted with caution because the two studies employed different neutron energies, fluences, and irradiation conditions. These findings demonstrate the potential of fast-neutron irradiation for modifying the low-temperature optical response of hydrothermally grown ZnO and provide a foundation for future investigations of neutron-induced defect and donor engineering in wide-bandgap oxide semiconductors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Research of Semiconductor Micro-Nano Structure Optoelectronic Devices)

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11 pages, 1756 KB

Open AccessArticle

Strain Engineering for Enhanced TiN/TiO₂ Hot Electron Photodetection

by Tingting Liu, Weijia Shao, Qingjia Zhou, Yiling Zhang, Yuhong Chen, Xinwei Chang, Ni Yao, Jie Li, Aijuan Zhang and Yanni Zhang

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160977 - 9 Aug 2026

Abstract

Metal/semiconductor heterojunctions for hot carrier photodetection have garnered significant attention. However, enhancing the quantum efficiency remains a critical challenge. Introducing lattice strain into metallic materials offers a viable approach to enhance the performance of TiN/TiO₂ hot electron photodetectors by effectively modulating their electronic structure. Herein, we investigate how strain influences the electronic structure of TiN and consequently affects the generation, transport, and injection processes of hot carriers using first-principles calculations. Subsequently, we evaluate the injection efficiency and responsivity of the TiN/TiO₂ photodetector through Monte Carlo simulations. We find that compressive strain renders the energy bands more delocalized and reduces the density of states DOS, leading to diminished hot electron generation, especially in the high-energy region above the Schottky barrier. This reduction suppresses electron–electron scattering, thereby increasing the hot electron lifetime and mean free path. Consequently, the hot electron injection efficiency is enhanced, ultimately improving the responsivity of TiN/TiO₂ photodetector by a factor of 1.3–2.4 over the incident photon energy range of 0.1–3 eV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical Calculations and Simulations of Low-Dimensional Materials)

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27 pages, 22514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Banana Passion Fruit-Mediated Green Synthesis of Copper(I) Iodide Nanoparticles for Concrete Biodeterioration Control: Antimicrobial Activity, Cytotoxicity, and Mechanical Compatibility

by Samantha Fajardo, Andrés Izquierdo, Ana G. Haro-Báez, Alexis Debut, Geovanna Arroyo, Andrea Aluisa, Marbel Torres Arias, Hugo Bonifaz, Juan Haro, Carlos Navas-Cárdenas and Erika Murgueitio Herrera

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160976 - 8 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to synthesize copper(I) iodide nanoparticles (CuI NPs) through a green route using taxo (banana passion fruit) extract as a natural capping and stabilizing agent, and to evaluate their antimicrobial performance against microorganisms isolated from concrete, together with a preliminary cytotoxicity screening. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). UV–Vis spectra recorded in the 200–704 nm range showed a strong absorption band at 224 nm, consistent with electronic transitions associated with nanostructured CuI. FTIR analysis revealed extract-derived biomolecules adsorbed on the nanoparticle surface, with bands assigned to aliphatic C–H, aromatic moieties, and C–O/C–O–C vibrations, supporting the formation of an organic capping layer. DLS analysis showed a mean hydrodynamic diameter of approximately 32 nm in aqueous suspension, whereas TEM revealed particle sizes ranging from 13 to 42 nm. XRD confirmed a predominantly cubic CuI phase, while SEM–EDS identified Cu and I as the main elements, with minor signals attributed to residual organic coating and/or trace species from the synthesis medium. The CuI NPs exhibited antimicrobial activity against microorganisms isolated from medium-strength concrete, producing inhibitory effects at all tested concentrations (0.014, 0.0087, and 0.0035 mol/L). Preliminary cytotoxicity screening using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in human foreskin fibroblast (HFF), human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), and human glioblastoma (U251) cell lines showed dose- and time-dependent reductions in metabolic viability. The 1.0 mol/L formulations, particularly the precipitated fraction, produced stronger cytotoxic effects, whereas the 0.1 mol/L formulations, especially the residual fraction, preserved comparatively higher metabolic viability. Overall, these findings suggest that taxo-mediated CuI NPs are promising antimicrobial candidates for concrete biodeterioration control, while further colloidal and biological studies are required to better define their behavior under cell-culture conditions and optimize their safe application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)

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16 pages, 1869 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fixed-Bed Adsorption of As and Pb Using Carbon Nanotubes, Activated Carbon and Zeolite: Solids Characterization and Kinetic Analysis

by Miriam Estrada, Rubén H. Olcay, Iván Alejandro Reyes, Francisco Patiño, Hernán Islas, Mizraim U. Flores, J. Eliecer Méndez, Gildardo Godínez and Sayra Ordoñez

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160975 - 8 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study presents a fixed-bed column packed with zeolite, activated carbon, and carbon nanotubes synthesized by chemical vapor deposition, which were used to adsorb heavy metals (As and Pb) from water. Water containing 50 mg/L of the target heavy metal was filtered through the column. The materials were characterized before and after their use in the column by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The analyses confirmed the structural stability and functional efficiency of each adsorbent material. A removal efficiency of 100% was achieved within the first 15 min for both metals, decreasing to 45% for As and 95% for Pb. The experimental data were evaluated using the Thomas, Yoon–Nelson, and Adams–Bohart models. For arsenic, an R² value of 0.934 was obtained, whereas better fits were observed for Pb, with all three models achieving R² values greater than 0.98. Dynamic adsorption analysis indicated that the mass and height of the fixed bed are suitable for the operating concentration. The column arrangement proved to be more efficient for Pb retention than for As retention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoadsorbents for Environmental Remediation)

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13 pages, 2539 KB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Investigation of the Fate and Behavior of Antimony Micro/Nanoparticles in Simulated Body Fluids

by Yujian Lai, Sujuan Yu, Zhensong Zhang and Lijie Dong

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160974 - 7 Aug 2026

Abstract

Antimony micro/nanoparticles (Sb MNPs) are key environmental Sb species that enter the human body via inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact, posing potential health risks. Their complex transformation across multiple Sb species hinders accurate quantification, leaving their in vivo transformation mechanisms poorly understood. In this study, in vitro respiratory, gastrointestinal, and sweat models were established to investigate Sb MNP biotransformation, and the gastrointestinal model incorporated human fecal suspension to better mimic in vivo conditions. Transformation dynamics showed that simulated gastric fluid dissolved Sb₂O₃, Sb₂S₃ and Sb₂O₅ MNPs into ionic Sb without altering valence states, while Sb ions remained at low levels. Gastric-derived Sb(III) was oxidized to less toxic Sb(V) in the intestinal phase. In simulated sweat, Sb(III) concentrations increased but accounted for only 1.75% of total exposure, indicating low dermal risk. Notably, Sb₂O₃ MNPs exhibited lability in simulated lung fluids, particularly artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF), where dissolved Sb(III) reached 1276.7 μg/L with an ionic release rate of 63.8%. The low pH of ALF and formation of stable soluble complexes with citrate, lactate, and Cl⁻ might drive Sb₂O₃ dissolution, suggesting high inhalation risk. This study advances the quantitative understanding of Sb MNP biotransformation and thus for human health risk assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology for Pollutant Detection and Removal)

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15 pages, 10940 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elemental Boron Nanoparticles for Boron-Neutron Capture Therapy of BT-474 Human Breast Cancer

by Evgenii L. Zavjalov, Linga D. Romanenko, Olga I. Kichakova, Anna I. Kasatova, Polina A. Kotelnikova, Dmitry S. Petrunya, Ekaterina V. Barmina, Kuder O. Aiyyzhy, Artem A. Laktionov, Sergei M. Klimentov, Anton A. Popov, Maria S. Grigoryeva, Timofey A. Bykov, Vasilisa V. Podolyako, Anastasia A. Fronya, Egor I. Mavreshko, Danila A. Pokhorukov, Sergey Yu. Taskaev, Sergey M. Deyev and Irina N. Zavestovskaya

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160973 - 7 Aug 2026

Abstract

Breast cancer remains one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Highly invasive HER2-positive breast cancer carries a high risk of metastasis and poses a significant therapeutic challenge. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) may be an option for patients with this severe diagnosis. Here we evaluated the effectiveness of BNCT with elemental boron nanoparticles obtained by laser fragmentation and coated Silane-PEG-COOH and conjugated with the Affibody _ZHER2:342 guide protein (BPs) against the HER2-positive breast cancer. The MTT assay after BNCT with BPs revealed an almost twofold reduction in surviving BT-474 tumor cells compared to the control group. The results of the clonogenic test showed totally death of BT-474 cells after BNCT with BPs at a concentration of 40 μg/mL in the culture medium. The same results was found for in vivo. In female SCID mice bearing BT-474 breast tumor xenografts, BNCT with intratumoral injection of BPs at a dose of 60 mg/kg led to a significant slowdown in xenograft growth beginning on the 17th day compared with control animals and the 39th day compared with irradiated females. A single intratumoral administration of BPs at a dose of 60 mg/kg did not show toxic effects. Histological examinations did not reveal systemic accumulation of the studied BPs in major organs; instead BPs was selectively retained within the xenografts and surrounding tissues. Thus, laser fragmented functionalized with Silane-PEG-COOH and the Affibody _ZHER2:342 (BPs B-PEG-AFF) represent a promising platform for boron delivery in targeted BNCT applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)

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27 pages, 18819 KB

Open AccessReview

Interphase Engineering in Aramid-Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites: From Surface Modification to Mechanical Consequences

by Minseo Kim, Yeongdam Choi, Yunsang Kim, Byounghwak Lee, Min-Kun Kim and Youngho Jin

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160972 - 7 Aug 2026

Abstract

Aramid-fiber-reinforced epoxy composites are widely utilized in lightweight structural and protective applications; however, their performance is often limited by intrinsically weak and chemically inert fiber–matrix interfaces. Recent advances have shifted attention from conventional surface activation to deliberate interphase engineering, in which chemical functionality, hierarchical structure, and nanoscale reinforcement are integrated to regulate stress transfer and damage evolution. This review provides a comprehensive overview of interfacial design strategies for aramid/epoxy systems, including reactive surface activation, additive interphase construction, bioinspired polydopamine (PDA)-based coatings, and PDA/poly(ethyleneimine)-mediated hierarchical interphases. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of carbon nanotubes and hybrid nanofillers as interphase-active components rather than simple matrix additives, highlighting the importance of their localization, functionalization, and structural integration. This review further examines how interphase architecture influences mechanical responses under multiple loading conditions, including interlaminar shear, impact, tribological wear, viscoelastic behavior, and ballistic loading. Optimal composite performance depends on achieving an appropriate balance between strong interfacial bonding and damage-tolerant deformation mechanisms. By integrating recent experimental and conceptual developments, this review highlights the transition from “surface modification” to “interphase programming” and provides design guidelines for next-generation aramid fiber composites with improved strength, toughness, and multifunctionality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano Surface Engineering: Third Edition)

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1 pages, 136 KB

Open AccessRetraction

RETRACTED: Tasca, F.; Antiochia, R. Biocide Activity of Green Quercetin-Mediated Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles. Nanomaterials 2020, 10, 909

by Federico Tasca and Riccarda Antiochia

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160971 - 7 Aug 2026

Abstract

The journal retracts the article “Biocide Activity of Green Quercetin-Mediated Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles” [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Properties and Biomedical Applications)

11 pages, 243 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Theoretical Calculation Study of Nanomaterials

by Yuhua Duan and J. Woods Halley

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(16), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16160970 - 7 Aug 2026

Abstract

With the innovation of high-performance computers, it has become possible in this day and age for first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations to handle large atomic systems with hundreds of atoms, paving ways to explore properties of nanomaterials for many applications [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical Calculation Study of Nanomaterials: 2nd Edition)

17 pages, 2148 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ti₃C₂ MXene-Coated Germanium Nanoparticles on Nickel Foam for Binder-Free Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes

by Junaid Aslam, Muhammad Arif Khan, Weiwei Sun and Chao Yang

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(15), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16150969 - 6 Aug 2026

Abstract

Germanium (Ge) is a promising high-capacity anode material for lithium-ion batteries; however, its practical application remains limited by substantial volume variation, unstable interfacial reactions, and rapid capacity degradation during repeated lithiation/delithiation. In this work, a binder-free Ge/C/MXene@NF hybrid electrode was developed through a sequential fabrication process, where Ge nanoparticles were immobilized within a PVP-derived carbon matrix supported on a three-dimensional nickel-foam scaffold and subsequently integrated with a Ti₃C₂T_x MXene conductive network to construct a hierarchical Ge/C/MXene hybrid architecture. The nickel foam provides a continuous current-collecting framework and mechanical support, while the MXene network improves electrical connectivity, electrolyte accessibility, and interfacial charge-transfer kinetics. Structural and compositional analyses further indicate the presence of PVP-derived carbon and a possible minor NiGe interfacial phase formed during annealing. Comparison with Ge@NF and the individual component electrodes provides insight into the respective contributions of MXene, Ge, and the PVP-derived carbon framework to the electrochemical behaviour of the composite electrode. Using the total deposited active-material mass as the normalisation basis, the MXene@Ge@NF electrode retains a reversible specific capacity of 789.8 mAh g⁻¹ after 100 cycles at an effective current density of 76.2 mA g⁻¹. The observed electrochemical behaviour originates from the integrated contributions of Ge nanoparticles, the PVP-derived carbon matrix, the conductive Ti₃C₂T_x MXene network, the three-dimensional nickel-foam scaffold, and possible Ni–Ge interfacial interactions. Rather than representing a Ge-dominated electrode, this architecture demonstrates the advantages of integrating multiple functional components within a binder-free Ge/C/MXene hybrid architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage)

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