Nanomaterials

13 pages, 3176 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multifunctional Bamboo Fiber/Epoxy Composites Featuring Integrated Superhydrophobicity and Enhanced Mechanical–Thermal Performance

by Yanchao Liu, Ze Yu, Rumin Li, Xiaodong Wang and Yingjie Qiao

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010008 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Developing sustainable, high-performance biomass composites is crucial for replacing non-renewable structural materials. In this study, a “bamboo steel” composite was fabricated using a multilevel modification strategy involving alkali pretreatment, toughened resin impregnation, and surface functionalization. Bamboo fibers were treated to remove hemicellulose and [...] Read more.

Developing sustainable, high-performance biomass composites is crucial for replacing non-renewable structural materials. In this study, a “bamboo steel” composite was fabricated using a multilevel modification strategy involving alkali pretreatment, toughened resin impregnation, and surface functionalization. Bamboo fibers were treated to remove hemicellulose and lignin, enhancing porosity and interfacial bonding. The bamboo scaffold was subsequently impregnated with a thermo-plastic polyurethane-modified epoxy resin to create a robust, interpenetrating network. The optimized composite (treated at 80 °C) exhibited a flexural strength of 443.97 MPa and a tensile strength of 324.14 MPa, demonstrating exceptional stiffness and toughness. Furthermore, a superhydrophobic coating incorporating silica nanoparticles was applied, achieving a water contact angle exceeding 150° and excellent self-cleaning properties. This work presents a scalable strategy for producing bio-based structural materials that balance mechanical strength with environmental durability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)

8 pages, 813 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Integrated PbTe Quantum Dots for Two-Color Detection in II–VI Wide-Bandgap Diodes

by Jakub M. Głuch, Michał Szot and Grzegorz Karczewski

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010007 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs) composed of the narrow-bandgap semiconductor PbTe were incorporated into the depletion region of p–n junctions based on wide-bandgap II–VI semiconductors (p-ZnTe/n-CdTe). The heterostructures were grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on semi-insulating GaAs (100) substrates. The depletion region was engineered [...] Read more.

Quantum dots (QDs) composed of the narrow-bandgap semiconductor PbTe were incorporated into the depletion region of p–n junctions based on wide-bandgap II–VI semiconductors (p-ZnTe/n-CdTe). The heterostructures were grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on semi-insulating GaAs (100) substrates. The depletion region was engineered by depositing 20 alternating thin layers of CdTe and PbTe, then thermal annealing under ultrahigh vacuum. As revealed by cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the initially continuous PbTe layers transformed into arrays of zero-dimensional nanostructures, namely PbTe quantum dots (QDs). The formation of PbTe QDs in a CdTe matrix arises from the structural mismatch between the zinc blende and rock-salt crystal structures of the two materials. Electron beam-induced current (EBIC) scans confirmed that the QDs are localized within the depleted charge region between the p-ZnTe and n-CdTe layers. The resulting wide-gap diodes containing narrow-band QDs show pronounced sensitivity to infrared radiation in the spectral range of 1–4.5 μm, with a peak responsivity of approximately 8 V/W at a wavelength of ~2.0 μm and a temperature of 200 K. A red-shift in the cutoff wavelength when temperature decreases indicates that the infrared (IR) response is governed by band-to-band optical transitions in the PbTe quantum dots (QDs). In addition, the devices show sensitivity to visible radiation, with a maximum responsivity of 20 V/W at 0.69 μm. These results demonstrate that wide-bandgap p–n junctions incorporating narrow-bandgap quantum dots can function as dual-wavelength (visible and infrared) photodetectors, with potential applications in two-color detection and infrared solar cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Nanostructured Photodetectors)

9 pages, 4610 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Single-Layer Full-Color Diffractive Waveguide by Lithography

by Yong Li, Fei Wu, Huihui Li, Haitao Yang, Mengguang Wang and Zhenrong Zheng

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010006 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) near-eye displays (NEDs) couple microdisplay image light to the human eye via integrated optical modules, enabling seamless virtual–real fusion. As core components that synergistically transmit and diffract light, diffractive waveguides are promising for next-generation AR NEDs but face two bottlenecks: [...] Read more.

Augmented reality (AR) near-eye displays (NEDs) couple microdisplay image light to the human eye via integrated optical modules, enabling seamless virtual–real fusion. As core components that synergistically transmit and diffract light, diffractive waveguides are promising for next-generation AR NEDs but face two bottlenecks: compromised full-color performance in single-layer structures caused by grating dispersion and lack of scalable fabrication technologies. To address these, we first propose a mass-production-compatible workflow based on deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography for large-area nanostructured optics. This workflow enables high-precision wafer-level production with 200 mm wafers and nine dies per wafer, overcomes scalability issues, and is fully compatible with straight-configuration nanostructures to ensure manufacturing feasibility. Leveraging this workflow, we develop a single-layer diffractive waveguide system for AR NEDs, which comprises a thin glass substrate, a broadband high-efficiency multi-layer dielectric in-coupler, and a 2D out-coupler that concurrently expands and out-couples light. Rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) optimized coupler diffraction, while ray tracing refined guided light intensity and significantly improved exit pupil uniformity. This work establishes a foundation for full-color, high-efficiency AR waveguides and provides a scalable paradigm for large-area nanostructured optical systems such as telescopes and lithography equipment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)

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11 pages, 2338 KB

Open AccessArticle

Laser-Controlled Propulsion of a Microbubble Rolling on a Carbon Nanocoil Rail

by Yuli Liu, Si Li, Yanming Sun, Jinlu Li, Yuanyong Dai, Mengmeng Zhang, Jian Shen and Lujun Pan

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010005 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Controllably propelling microbubbles in microchannels within a microfluidic chip is of great scientific significance yet remains challenging. In this work, we employ carbon nanocoils (CNCs) as a laser-energized rail for propelling microbubbles to the desired position on the inner sidewall of microchannels by [...] Read more.

Controllably propelling microbubbles in microchannels within a microfluidic chip is of great scientific significance yet remains challenging. In this work, we employ carbon nanocoils (CNCs) as a laser-energized rail for propelling microbubbles to the desired position on the inner sidewall of microchannels by laser irradiation at the liquid-CNC interface. Laser-controlled microbubbles can be generated, transported to a desired location, stopped, and re-mobilized repeatedly without a significant change in volume on the microchannel within a microfluidic chip by controlling the laser spot. The microbubbles exhibit a rolling motion at the liquid-CNC interface due to stronger convectional flow induced by a dynamic, mobile thermal gradient generated by a scanning laser spot. The photothermal conversion properties and hydrophobic surface of the CNCs enable the CNCs to function as a laser-energized rail for microbubble propulsion. These results demonstrate that laser-controlled microbubbles rolling on CNC rails have good mobility and can be accurately manipulated in a microchannel chip. This approach leverages a dynamic thermal gradient, departing from static control methods to enable on-demand, reconfigurable manipulation of microbubbles, which opens up new possibilities for lab-on-a-chip and microfluidic applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanoelectronics, Nanosensors and Devices)

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14 pages, 2398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Triplet Exciton Management and Interface Engineering for High-Brightness Sky-Blue Multi-Cation Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes

by Fawad Ali, Fang Yuan, Shuaiqi He, Peichao Zhu, Nabeel Israr, Songting Zhang, Puyang Wu, Jiaxin Liang, Wen Deng and Zhaoxin Wu

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010004 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have garnered significant interest owing to their exceptional color purity, broadly tunable emission spectra, and cost-effective solution processability. However, blue PeLEDs continue to underperform in efficiency and operational stability compared to their red and green counterparts, primarily due to [...] Read more.

Perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have garnered significant interest owing to their exceptional color purity, broadly tunable emission spectra, and cost-effective solution processability. However, blue PeLEDs continue to underperform in efficiency and operational stability compared to their red and green counterparts, primarily due to defect-induced non-radiative recombination losses and inefficient exciton management. Herein, we demonstrate a synergistic approach that integrates multi-cation compositional engineering with triplet exciton management by incorporating a high-triplet-energy material, mCBP (3,3-Di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)biphenyl), during film fabrication. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence reveals that mCBP incorporation significantly enhances the exciton binding energy from 49.36 meV to 68.84 meV and reduces phonon coupling strength, indicating improved exciton stability and suppressed non-radiative channels. The corresponding PeLEDs achieve a peak external quantum efficiency of 10.2% and a maximum luminance exceeding 12,000 cd/m², demonstrating the effectiveness of this solution-based triplet management strategy. This work highlights the critical role of scalable, solution-processed triplet exciton management strategies in advancing blue PeLED performance, offering a practical pathway toward high-performance perovskite-based display and lighting technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanostructured Metal Halide Perovskites for Optoelectronics: Materials, Devices and Commercialization)

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11 pages, 2247 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Structure to Optics: The pH-Temperature Interplay in Aqueous Solution CdS Nanoparticles

by Elvia Angelica Sanchez-Ramirez, Ramón Arellano-Piña, M. A. Hernandez-Perez, Simón Bello-Teodoro, Karol Karla Garcia-Aguirre, J. Sastré-Hernández and J. R. Aguilar-Hernandez

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010003 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles are classified as II-VI semiconductor materials, used in optoelectronic devices due to a band gap (E_g). In this study, CdS nanoparticles were synthesized by the chemical precipitation method, and a systematic evaluation of pH (4.8–10.1) and temperature [...] Read more.

Cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles are classified as II-VI semiconductor materials, used in optoelectronic devices due to a band gap (E_g). In this study, CdS nanoparticles were synthesized by the chemical precipitation method, and a systematic evaluation of pH (4.8–10.1) and temperature (50, 75, and 90 °C) was conducted. The effects of these variables were evaluated by UV-VIS spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results demonstrate that variables determine crystallite sizes (C_s), cluster sizes, and optical properties. CdS crystallization is more affected by pH conditions than by temperature during synthesis; the change in peak intensity in 2θ = 24–29° suggests the formation of a cubic phase (alkaline conditions) and a transition to a hexagonal phase (acidic conditions). Higher temperature improves the quality of the nanoparticles, as evidenced by the reduction in intensity of the peaks associated with secondary materials. The synthesis conditions of CdS nanoparticles significantly affect E_g, widening the range from 2.21 to 2.40 eV. Both temperature and pH conditions change the size of nanoparticles and clusters. Acid conditions promote the formation of rounded and uniform nanoparticles, while alkaline conditions form the largest crystals of CdS. These findings are useful for developing electronic devices that require different semiconductor profiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)

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11 pages, 2223 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multiferroic Pb(Zr_0.52Ti_0.48)O₃-CoFe₂O₄ Janus-Type Nanofibers and Their Nanoscale Magnetoelectric Coupling

by Qingfeng Zhu, Ting Wang, Junfeng Zhao, Haijuan Mei and Weiping Gong

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010002 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

One-dimensional (1D) multiferroic composite nanofibers are known to exhibit enhanced magnetoelectric (ME) coupling compared to their thin-film and bulk counterparts with similar compositions. While measuring their local ME coupling at the nanoscale is essential for understanding multiferroic interactions, it remains challenging due to [...] Read more.

One-dimensional (1D) multiferroic composite nanofibers are known to exhibit enhanced magnetoelectric (ME) coupling compared to their thin-film and bulk counterparts with similar compositions. While measuring their local ME coupling at the nanoscale is essential for understanding multiferroic interactions, it remains challenging due to their complex structure. In this work, multiferroic Pb(Zr_0.52Ti_0.48)O₃-CoFe₂O₄ (PZT-CFO) Janus-type nanofibers were synthesized by electrospinning. This unique structure is expected to provide a more compact and continuous interface between the ferroelectric and ferromagnetic phases compared to core–shell configurations. X-ray diffraction confirmed the coexistence of the perovskite PZT and spinel CFO phases without detectable impurities. The Janus configuration was directly verified by scanning electron microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy, which revealed a distinct surface potential contrast between the two halves of a single nanofiber. Magnetic hysteresis loops demonstrated the macroscopic ferromagnetic behavior of the nanofiber assembly. Local magnetoelectric coupling was probed using piezoresponse force microscopy under an applied magnetic field. An enhancement of the intrinsic piezoresponse from 15 pm to 19 pm. was observed upon applying an 8000 Oe magnetic field, providing direct evidence of strain-mediated ME coupling at the nanoscale. Although no ferroelectric domain switching was observed, likely due to the substrate clamping effect, the observed piezoresponse modulation confirms the functional ME interaction. These findings suggest that the Janus nanofibers hold promise for applications in one-dimensional multiferroic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials and Thin Films for Advanced Engineering Applications and Green Sustainable Solutions)

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11 pages, 1792 KB

Open AccessArticle

Theoretical Study of Ultra-Fast Laser Lift-Off of Carbon Nanotube-Integrated Polyimide Films

by Run Bai, Yachong Xu, Junwei Fu, Zhenzhen Sun, Yanbo Wang, Rui Yang, Zijuan Han, Fanfan Wang and Boyuan Cai

Nanomaterials 2026, 16(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16010001 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

In this paper, ultra-fast laser lift-off (LLO) of carbon nanotube (CNT)-integrated polyimide film (PI) was investigated by different laser burst mode and pulse intervals using the two-temperature model. By comparing the temperature field distributions of nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond lasers at different pulse [...] Read more.

In this paper, ultra-fast laser lift-off (LLO) of carbon nanotube (CNT)-integrated polyimide film (PI) was investigated by different laser burst mode and pulse intervals using the two-temperature model. By comparing the temperature field distributions of nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond lasers at different pulse intervals, it can be found that picosecond lasers cause a higher lattice temperature increase at the PI interface with specific pulse interval conditions. With the increase in the pulse interval, the lattice temperature of the three kinds of lasers decreased, indicating that the heat accumulation effect was weakened. In addition, under picosecond laser irradiation, the lattice temperature at the PI/glass interface of integrated CNTs could be significantly increased, which was significantly different from the system without integrated CNTs. The simulation results show that the picosecond laser is more suitable for LLO with an appropriate pulse interval, and the integration of CNTs at the PI/glass interface can effectively reduce the laser energy threshold required for the LLO process. Our work presents a new PI/CNT/glass model for ultra-fast laser low-threshold LLO and promotes the laser debonding technology in the fields of OLED and other optoelectronic chips. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Optics and Nanophotonics)

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31 pages, 3076 KB

Open AccessReview

Progress and Applications of Nanocomposites in the Technology of Biosensors

by Catalina Cioates Negut, Raluca-Ioana Stefan-van Staden and Ruxandra-Maria Ilie-Mihai

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1905; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241905 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

There has been tremendous progress in the development and application of nanotechnology in the past ten years. There are a plethora of nanoparticles and nanomaterials that have been developed and used to improve the biosensors’ overall performance. Nanocomposites integrate several nanomaterials inside a [...] Read more.

There has been tremendous progress in the development and application of nanotechnology in the past ten years. There are a plethora of nanoparticles and nanomaterials that have been developed and used to improve the biosensors’ overall performance. Nanocomposites integrate several nanomaterials inside a matrix to improve their structural and functional characteristics, resulting in enhanced biosensor efficacy. This review covers the achievements in nanocomposites containing metal, polymer, inorganic, carbon-based, or gold nanoparticles as new biosensors for detecting a wide range of (bio)molecules with improved sensitivity, selectivity, and a low limit of detection. The purpose is to give an overview of current advances and applications in the field of nanocomposites utilized in biosensors’ design. Emphasis will be placed on the possible uses of these nanocomposites in biosensing across a range of industries, medication delivery, food safety, healthcare, and environmental monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications and Advances of Nanocomposites for Biosensors)

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31 pages, 22151 KB

Open AccessArticle

Calcium-Enriched Magnetic Core–Shell Mesoporous Nanoparticles for Potential Application in Bone Regeneration

by Despoina Kordonidou, Georgia K. Pouroutzidou, Nikoletta Florini, Ioannis Tsamesidis, Konstantina Kazeli, Dimitrios Gkiliopoulos, George Vourlias, Makis Angelakeris, Philomela Komninou, Panos Patsalas and Eleana Kontonasaki

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1904; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241904 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles are biocompatible, non-toxic, and easily functionalized. Coating them with mesoporous silica (mSiO₂) offers high surface area, pore volume, and tunable surface chemistry for drug loading. In this study, Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles [...] Read more.

Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles are biocompatible, non-toxic, and easily functionalized. Coating them with mesoporous silica (mSiO₂) offers high surface area, pore volume, and tunable surface chemistry for drug loading. In this study, Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized and coated with mSiO₂ shells enriched with calcium ions (Ca²⁺), aiming to enhance bioactivity for bone regeneration and tissue engineering. Different synthesis routes were tested to optimize shell formation Their characterization confirmed the presence of a crystalline Fe₃O₄ core with partial conversion to maghemite (Fe₂O₃) post-coating. The silica shell was mostly amorphous and the optimized samples exhibited mesoporous structure (type IVb). Calcium incorporation slightly altered the magnetic properties without significantly affecting core crystallinity or particle size (11.68–13.56 nm). VSM analysis displayed symmetric hysteresis loops and decreased saturation magnetization after coating and Ca²⁺ addition. TEM showed spherical morphology with some agglomeration. MTT assays confirmed overall non-toxicity, except for mild cytotoxicity at high concentrations in the Ca²⁺-enriched sample synthesized by a modified Stöber method. Their capacity to induce human periodontal ligament cell osteogenic differentiation, further supports the potential of Fe₃O₄/mSiO₂/Ca²⁺ core–shell nanoparticles as promising candidates for bone-related biomedical applications due to their favorable magnetic, structural, and biological properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)

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17 pages, 5932 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Dual-Functional Bi₃TiNbO₉/Bi₂MoO₆ Heterojunction for Simultaneous Environmental Remediation and CO₂ Photoreduction

by Reshalaiti Hailili and Yiming Gan

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1903; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241903 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

The development of versatile photocatalysts is crucial for comprehensive solutions to the intertwined challenges of the energy crisis and environmental pollution. This study presents a novel Bi₃TiNbO₉/Bi₂MoO₆ (BTNO/BMO) heterojunction fabricated via a solvothermal method. Advanced characterization [...] Read more.

The development of versatile photocatalysts is crucial for comprehensive solutions to the intertwined challenges of the energy crisis and environmental pollution. This study presents a novel Bi₃TiNbO₉/Bi₂MoO₆ (BTNO/BMO) heterojunction fabricated via a solvothermal method. Advanced characterization techniques verified the successful synthesis of the as-integrated BTNO/BMO heterostructure. The BTNO/BMO composite exhibited superior performance in multiple applications: efficient degradation of tetracycline reaching 90.2%, removal of gaseous nitric oxide (NO), and photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) to carbon monoxide (CO) with a yield of 51.3 μmol·g⁻¹. The constructed Type-II heterojunction demonstrated a remarkable ability to suppress charge recombination, thereby significantly enhancing the photocatalytic activity. This work highlights the dual-functional capability of the BTNO/BMO heterojunction for simultaneous environmental purification and fuel production, providing a promising material platform and a strategic design concept for sustainable technological development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Harvesting with Nanomaterials)

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18 pages, 9321 KB

Open AccessArticle

One-Step Ambient-Condition Synthesis of PEG- and PVA-Coated SPIONs: Morphological, Magnetic, and MRI Performance Assessment

by Laura Turilli, Angelo Galante, Franco D’Orazio, Valeria Daniele and Giuliana Taglieri

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1902; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241902 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are commonly produced through wet-chemical methods that require high temperature and pressure and involve multiple synthesis steps. Our research group has developed an innovative, sustainable, and patented one-step aqueous synthesis operating at ambient temperature and pressure, enabling the [...] Read more.

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are commonly produced through wet-chemical methods that require high temperature and pressure and involve multiple synthesis steps. Our research group has developed an innovative, sustainable, and patented one-step aqueous synthesis operating at ambient temperature and pressure, enabling the direct production of SPIONs in suspension. In this work, we investigated the extension of this method to obtain polymer-coated SPIONs for biomedical imaging applications. Two water-soluble and biocompatible polymers—poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)—were selected and prepared into twelve samples varying in polymer concentration and iron precursor molarity. Each formulation was characterized and compared to bare SPIONs synthesized with the same approach using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and alternating gradient magnetometry (AGM). The results confirm that the one-step method yields polymer-coated nanoparticles with a cubic spinel magnetite core. PEG produced spherical, monodisperse particles (10–30 nm) exhibiting superparamagnetic behavior but lower magnetization values (1–5 emu/g). In contrast, PVA-coated nanoparticles showed a morphology dependent on polymer concentration and reagent molarity, while maintaining an average size of ~10 nm and superparamagnetic behavior, with magnetization comparable to bare SPIONs (25–50 emu/g). A preliminary MRI evaluation of a selected PVA-coated sample revealed relaxivity values of r₁ = 0.12 mM⁻¹ s⁻¹ and r₂ = 6.44 mM⁻¹ s⁻¹, supporting the potential of this synthesis route for imaging-oriented nanomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Nanomaterials in Biomedical Imaging and Cancer Therapy: 4th Edition)

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13 pages, 2463 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phase Transitions and Switching Dynamics of Topological Domains in Hafnium Oxide-Based Cylindrical Ferroelectrics from Three-Dimensional Phase Field Simulation

by Pengying Chang, Hanxiao Zhang, Mengyao Xie, Huan Zhang and Yiyang Xie

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1901; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241901 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

The phase transitions and switching dynamics of topological polar textures in hafnium oxide (HfO₂)-based cylindrical-shell ferroelectrics are studied using a three-dimensional (3D) phase field model based on the self-consistent solution of the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau model and Poisson equation. The comprehensive interplays [...] Read more.

The phase transitions and switching dynamics of topological polar textures in hafnium oxide (HfO₂)-based cylindrical-shell ferroelectrics are studied using a three-dimensional (3D) phase field model based on the self-consistent solution of the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau model and Poisson equation. The comprehensive interplays of bulk free energy, gradient energy, depolarization energy, and elastic energy are taken into account. When a cylindrical ferroelectric device is biased under the in-plane radial electric field, there is a size-controlled phase transition between the ferroelectric (FE), antiferroelectric (AFE), and paraelectric (PE) phases, depending on ferroelectric film thickness and cylindrical shell radius. For in-plane polarization textures at the equilibriums, the FE phase has a Néel-like texture with a center-type four-quad domain, the AFE phase has a monodomain texture, and the PE phase has a Bloch-like texture with a vortex four-quad domain. These polarization domain textures are resultant from energy competition and topologically protected by the geometrical confinement. The polarization dynamics from polar states towards equilibriums are analyzed considering the separated contributions of x- and y-components of polarizations that are driven by x-y in-plane electric fields. The emergent topological domains and phase transitions provide guidelines for geometrical engineering of a novel nano-structured ferroelectric device that is different from the planar one, offering new possibilities for multi-functional high-density ferroelectric memory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HfO₂-Based Ferroelectric Thin Films and Devices)

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20 pages, 5408 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Temperature Electrical Transport Behavior of p-Doped Boron Diamond Film/n-WS₂ Nanosheet Heterojunction

by Changxing Li, Dandan Sang, Yarong Shi, Shunhao Ge, Lena Du and Qinglin Wang

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1900; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241900 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

WS₂ is a promising material for applications in wearable devices, field-effect transistors, and high-performance heterojunctions. However, significant challenges remain regarding effective regulation and temperature stability. This study investigates the temperature-dependent electrical properties of WS₂ heterojunctions prepared by electrophoretic deposition on boron-doped [...] Read more.

WS₂ is a promising material for applications in wearable devices, field-effect transistors, and high-performance heterojunctions. However, significant challenges remain regarding effective regulation and temperature stability. This study investigates the temperature-dependent electrical properties of WS₂ heterojunctions prepared by electrophoretic deposition on boron-doped diamond films. The results reveal that the rectification ratio of lightly doped boron heterojunctions at room temperature is 9.1, indicating thermal excitation behavior at temperatures above 100 °C. In contrast, heavily doped boron heterojunctions maintain a rectification ratio consistently below 1 over a temperature range from room temperature to 180 °C, indicating reverse rectification. The lowest rectification ratio observed at 140 °C is 0.17. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that hydrogen (H) termination generates an internal electric field in the opposite direction, causing a reversal of the rectification polarity, while oxygen (O) termination favors forward rectification. Additionally, due to vacancy defects in WS₂, the heterojunction exhibits negative differential resistance at 120 °C, with a peak-to-valley ratio of 2.4. Higher doping levels, in comparison to lower concentrations, offer a more stable rectification ratio at elevated temperatures, making the material more suitable for high-temperature, high-frequency, and high-power applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Graphene and Other 2D Materials)

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52 pages, 23254 KB

Open AccessReview

Biochemical Reduction of Metal Salts as a Prominent Approach for Biohybrid Nanomaterials Production: A Review

by Daniil A. Bogachikhin, Marina A. Abramkina, Anastasia K. Dzuba, Bogdan Ya. Karlinskii and Vyacheslav A. Arlyapov

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1899; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241899 - 17 Dec 2025

Abstract

Metal nanoparticles are unique materials with diverse properties and a wide range of paramount applications in various scientific fields, from catalysis and electrochemistry to pharmaceuticals and high-tech composite materials. Among the many methods for producing nanoparticles, those that use renewable plant biomass or [...] Read more.

Metal nanoparticles are unique materials with diverse properties and a wide range of paramount applications in various scientific fields, from catalysis and electrochemistry to pharmaceuticals and high-tech composite materials. Among the many methods for producing nanoparticles, those that use renewable plant biomass or its extracts, as well as biogenic approaches for synthesizing nanoparticles within living cells, are particularly promising from the viewpoint of Green Chemistry and sustainable development. These techniques, which are part of the rapidly growing field of Nanobiotechnology, can help solve problems associated with the use of toxic or expensive chemicals and increase the sustainability and affordability of the production of nanoparticles and biohybrid materials based on them. This review explores various methods for creating nanoparticles from both precious and base metals, using a variety of reducing agents and enzymes found in plants and bacteria, as well as promising biochemical approaches involving the reduction of metal salts inside living cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Friendly Nanomaterials: Innovations in Sustainable Applications)

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17 pages, 1970 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tunable Structural Color in Au-Based One-Dimensional Hyperbolic Metamaterials

by Ricardo Téllez-Limón, René I. Rodríguez-Beltrán, Fernando López-Rayón, Mauricio Gómez-Robles, Katie Figueroa-Guardiola, Jesús E. Chávez-Padua, Victor Coello and Rafael Salas-Montiel

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1898; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241898 - 17 Dec 2025

Abstract

Structural coloration arising from nanoscale light–matter interactions has emerged as a key research area in nanophotonics. Among the various materials investigated, noble metals—particularly gold—play a central role due to their well-defined plasmonic response and chemical stability, but their structural coloring typically requires complex [...] Read more.

Structural coloration arising from nanoscale light–matter interactions has emerged as a key research area in nanophotonics. Among the various materials investigated, noble metals—particularly gold—play a central role due to their well-defined plasmonic response and chemical stability, but their structural coloring typically requires complex and highly engineered nanostructures. However, modern photonic technologies demand scalable approaches to produce structural colors that can be finely tuned. In this contribution, we experimentally and numerically demonstrate the fine tunability of structural color in gold-based one-dimensional hyperbolic metamaterials (1D-HMMs) by varying their structural parameters: number of layers (N), period (T), and filling fraction (p). Our results show that variations in N lead to changes in luminance with minimal shifts in chromaticity, while variations in T introduce moderate color shifts without affecting luminance. In contrast, changes in p produce the largest modifications in chromaticity, though the trend is non-monotonic and less predictable. These findings highlight the potential of 1D-HMMs for achieving finely controlled gold-based coloration for advanced photonic technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Nanomaterials for Photonics and Optoelectronics: Practical Applications and Advances)

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12 pages, 1899 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Highly Hydrophobic and Flame-Retardant Melamine Sponge for Emergency Oil Spill Response

by Chengyong Zheng, Bo Wang, Wei Xie and Shuilai Qiu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1897; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241897 - 17 Dec 2025

Abstract

Frequent crude oil spills during offshore oil and gas production and transportation have inflicted irreversible detrimental effects on both human activities and marine ecosystems; with particular risks of secondary disasters such as combustion and explosions. To address these challenges; advanced oil sorption technologies [...] Read more.

Frequent crude oil spills during offshore oil and gas production and transportation have inflicted irreversible detrimental effects on both human activities and marine ecosystems; with particular risks of secondary disasters such as combustion and explosions. To address these challenges; advanced oil sorption technologies have been developed to overcome the inherent limitations of conventional remediation methods. In this study, a flame-retardant protective coating was fabricated on melamine sponge (MS) through precipitation polymerization of octa-aminopropyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP), endowing the MS@PPOS-PDMS-Si composite with exceptional char-forming capability. Secondary functional layer: By coupling the complementary physicochemical properties of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and SiO₂ nanofibers, we enabled them to function jointly, achieving superior performance in the material systems; this conferred enhanced hydrophobicity and structural stability to the MS matrix. Characterization results demonstrated a progressive reduction in peak heat release rate (PHRR) from 137.66 kW/m² to118.35 kW/m², 91.92 kW/m², and ultimately 46.23 kW/m², accompanied by a decrease in total smoke production (TSP) from 1.62 m² to 0.76 m², indicating significant smoke suppression. Furthermore, the water contact angle (WCA) exhibited substantial improvement from 0° (superhydrophilic) to 140.7° (highly hydrophobic). Cyclic sorption–desorption testing revealed maintained oil–water separation efficiency exceeding 95% after 10 operational cycles. These findings position the MS@PPOS-PDMS-Si composite as a promising candidate for emergency oil spill response and marine pollution remediation applications, demonstrating superior performance in fire safety, environmental durability, and operational reusability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Hybrid Organic/Inorganic Nanocomposites: From Synthesis to Applications)

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15 pages, 4225 KB

Open AccessArticle

Defect-Mediated Threshold Voltage Tuning in β-Ga₂O₃ MOSFETs via Fluorine Plasma Treatment

by Lisheng Wang, Yifan Zhang, Junxing Dong, Jingzhuo Wang, Zenan Wang, Yuan Feng, Xianghu Wang, Si Shen and Hai Zhu

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241896 - 17 Dec 2025

Abstract

We demonstrate high-performance MOSFETs on β-Ga₂O₃ films grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE). The high crystalline quality of the β-Ga₂O₃ epilayer was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. An optimized CF₄-plasma treatment [...] Read more.

We demonstrate high-performance MOSFETs on β-Ga₂O₃ films grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE). The high crystalline quality of the β-Ga₂O₃ epilayer was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. An optimized CF₄-plasma treatment was employed to introduce fluorine (F) into the near-surface region, effectively suppressing donor-like states. The resulting devices exhibit an ultralow off-state current of 1 × 10⁻⁹ mA/mm and a stable on/off ratio of 10⁵. A controllable positive threshold voltage shift up to +12.4 V was achieved by adjusting the plasma duration. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicates that incorporated F atoms form F–Ga-related bonds and compensate oxygen-related donor defects. Sentaurus TCAD simulations reveal reduced near-surface charge and a widened depletion region, providing a physical explanation for the experimentally observed increase in breakdown voltage from 453 V to 859 V. These results clarify the role of fluorine in modulating surface defect states in PA-MBE β-Ga₂O₃ and demonstrate an effective route for threshold-voltage engineering and leakage suppression in Ga₂O₃ power devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)

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21 pages, 15131 KB

Open AccessArticle

Compositional Effects on Chemical Ordering, Local Atomic Pressure and Thermal Stability in Truncated Octahedral Pd-Ir-Rh Trimetallic Nanoalloys

by Tuğba Göcen

Nanomaterials 2025, 15(24), 1895; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15241895 - 17 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive atomistic investigation of the structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of Pd₆₀Ir_nRh_19−n trimetallic nanoclusters adopting a truncated octahedral geometry. The compositional evolution of chemical ordering, local pressure distributions, and melting behavior was systematically analyzed [...] Read more.

This study presents a comprehensive atomistic investigation of the structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of Pd₆₀Ir_nRh_19−n trimetallic nanoclusters adopting a truncated octahedral geometry. The compositional evolution of chemical ordering, local pressure distributions, and melting behavior was systematically analyzed using Gupta potential-based basin-hopping global optimization. The accuracy of the Gupta potential predictions was further validated for all configurations using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The surface layer consisted solely of Pd atoms and was held constant throughout the study. Meanwhile, Ir and Rh atoms were distributed within the 19-atom core region, allowing a detailed evaluation of how variations in core composition affect the energetic and thermal stability of the clusters. The Pd₆₀Ir₆Rh₁₃ configuration exhibits the minimum value of mixing energy, corresponding to the most symmetric and energetically stable atomic arrangement. Local pressure analyses showed that Ir incorporation enhances internal compressive stress and induces tensile relaxation on the Pd surface, achieving an optimal strain balance at n = 6. Melting analyses based on caloric curves and Lindemann indices revealed a non-monotonic dependence of melting temperature on Ir content, with Ir-rich clusters displaying the highest thermal resistance and Rh-rich systems showing reduced stability. These findings clarify how Ir/Rh distribution governs the energetic, mechanical, and thermal response of Pd–Ir–Rh nanoalloys, offering a coherent atomistic framework for understanding their composition-dependent stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)

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