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Search Results (2,746)

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Keywords = nanoparticles shape

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13 pages, 4476 KiB  
Article
Green Preparation of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Citrus aurantium L. Extract for Dye Adsorption, Antibacterial, and Antioxidant Activities
by Xitao Yang, Liangliang Liu, Chenxiao Chen, Liping Liao and Siqi Huang
Separations 2025, 12(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12020018 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 90
Abstract
In this study, ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized using a green method employing fresh Citrus aurantium L. aqueous extract (CA) as a reducing agent. After preparation, the ZnO NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray [...] Read more.
In this study, ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized using a green method employing fresh Citrus aurantium L. aqueous extract (CA) as a reducing agent. After preparation, the ZnO NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and infrared spectroscopy (IR). The products displayed irregular particle shapes on a nanoscale. The adsorption ability of ZnO NPs was tested with amaranth red dye, and the result showed that it had a satisfied capacity for amaranth red. The adsorption data followed the pseudo-second-order model and the Langmuir model, which indicated the adsorption process was controlled by a chemical adsorption process and occurred homogeneously on the surface of absorbents. In addition, the prepared ZnO NPs also exhibited antibacterial abilities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria; antioxidant activities were observed in 2-2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-di(3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulphonate) (ABTS) radicals scavenging assays and the ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, which were better than those of traditional ZnO NPs except in the FRAP assay. Based on these findings, the ZnO NPs fabricated with CA aqueous extract displayed promising abilities in the environmental remediation of dye wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Removal of Organic Pollutants from Aqueous Systems)
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17 pages, 8844 KiB  
Article
From Anatase TiO2 Nano-Cuboids to Nano-Bipyramids: Influence of Particle Shape on the TiO2 Photocatalytic Degradation of Emerging Contaminants in Contrasted Water Matrices
by Humaira Asghar, Daphne Hermosilla, Francesco Pellegrino, Virginia Muelas-Ramos, Christian de los Ríos, Antonio Gascó, Valter Maurino and Muhammad Ahsan Iqbal
Molecules 2025, 30(2), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30020424 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 280
Abstract
Water pollution, resulting from industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and pharmaceutical residues, poses serious threats to ecosystems and human health, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to effective remediation, particularly for non-biodegradable emerging pollutants. This research work explores the influence of shape-controlled nanocrystalline titanium [...] Read more.
Water pollution, resulting from industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and pharmaceutical residues, poses serious threats to ecosystems and human health, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to effective remediation, particularly for non-biodegradable emerging pollutants. This research work explores the influence of shape-controlled nanocrystalline titanium dioxide (TiO2 NC), synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method, on the photodegradation efficiency of three different classes of emerging environmental pollutants: phenol, pesticides (methomyl), and drugs (sodium diclofenac). Experiments were conducted to assess the influence of the water matrix on treatment efficiency by using ultrapure water and stormwater (basic) collected from an urban drainage system as matrices. The size and shape of the nano-cuboids were accurately controlled during synthesis to assess their impact on photoactivity and selectivity. Regarding total organic carbon removal using TiO2 nano-cuboids in basic environments, the results were particularly remarkable. TiO2 nano-cuboids and truncated bipyramids synthesized in the 200–250 °C temperature range showed an enhanced photocatalytic efficiency when compared to alternative formulations. Diclofenac, methomyl, and phenol were fully mineralized from ultrapure water and basic stormwater. The TiO2 nano-cuboids/nano-bipyramids demonstrated better selectivity and photoactivity in comparison to irregular TiO2 nanoparticles. The differences in photoactivity and selectivity are explained in terms of charge carrier separation and trapping on the different crystal facets. Their performance demonstrates their potential as sustainable materials for the photodegradation of emerging pollutants in various water matrices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research on Novel Photo-/Electrochemical Materials)
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2 pages, 1357 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Soliman et al. Evaluating Antimicrobial Activity and Wound Healing Effect of Rod-Shaped Nanoparticles. Polymers 2022, 14, 2637
by Wafaa E. Soliman, Heba S. Elsewedy, Nancy S. Younis, Pottathil Shinu, Lamis E. Elsawy and Heba A. Ramadan
Polymers 2025, 17(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17020183 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 7 as published [...] Full article
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11 pages, 3641 KiB  
Article
Effective CdS:(Ce, Ga) Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic H2 Production Under Artificial Solar Light Exposer
by Pedda Thimmula Poojitha, Radhalayam Dhanalakshmi, Mohammad Rezaul Karim, Sung Jin An, Kummara Madhusudana Rao, Siva Pratap Reddy Mallem and Young Lae Kim
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9010034 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 369
Abstract
To encounter the burgeoning energy demands of the future, it is imperative to focus on the progress of innovative and profitable techniques for hydrogen (H2) evolution, coupled with an enriched stability of photocatalysts. In this work, we have effectually prepared CdS, [...] Read more.
To encounter the burgeoning energy demands of the future, it is imperative to focus on the progress of innovative and profitable techniques for hydrogen (H2) evolution, coupled with an enriched stability of photocatalysts. In this work, we have effectually prepared CdS, CdS:Ce, and CdS:(Ce, Ga) nanoparticles through a chemical refluxing method at 120 °C. Comprehensive structural analysis confirmed the effectual incorporation of Ce and Ga ions in the place of Cd2+ in a CdS matrix. Morphology analysis indicates that the prepared samples are irregularly shaped nanoparticles. Chemical analysis confirmed that the Ce and Ga ions incorporated in the Cd site occurred with 3+ and 4+ valence states. All the samples were assessed for H2 production through water splitting via artificial solar light irradiation. Amid all the samples, CdS:(Ce, Ga) nanoparticles portrayed a giant H2 evolution efficacy (3012 µmol h−1g−1) in 300 min, which is 13.9 times larger than that of the bar CdS sample. Thus, we firmly propose that CdS:(Ce, Ga) samples are authentic and potent candidates for efficient photocatalytic H2 production in sterile environments. Full article
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11 pages, 3416 KiB  
Article
Efficient Particle Manipulation Using Contraction–Expansion Microchannels Embedded with Hook-Shaped Arrays
by Di Huang, Yan Zhao, Chao Cao and Jiyun Zhao
Micromachines 2025, 16(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16010083 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 449
Abstract
Inertial microfluidics, as an efficient method for the manipulation of micro-/nanoparticles, has garnered significant attention due to its advantages of high throughput, structural simplicity, no need for external fields, and sheathless operation. Common structures include straight channels, contraction–expansion array (CEA) channels, spiral channels, [...] Read more.
Inertial microfluidics, as an efficient method for the manipulation of micro-/nanoparticles, has garnered significant attention due to its advantages of high throughput, structural simplicity, no need for external fields, and sheathless operation. Common structures include straight channels, contraction–expansion array (CEA) channels, spiral channels, and serpentine channels. In this study, we developed a CEA channel embedded with hook-shaped microstructures to modify the characteristics of vortices. Through experimental studies, we investigated the particles’ migration mechanisms within the proposed structure. The findings indicated that, in comparison to conventional rectangular microstructures, the particles within the hook-shaped microstructured CEA channels experienced a more pronounced influence from inertial lift forces. Moreover, the magnitude of the second flow within the novel configuration was directly proportional to the channel width, the length of the expansion segment, and the embedding depth of the microstructure. The innovative structure was subsequently employed for particle trapping, focusing, and separation. The experimental outcomes revealed focusing efficiency of up to 99.1% and sorting efficiency of up to 97%. This research holds the potential to enhance the foundational theory of Dean flows and broaden the application spectrum of inertial contraction–expansion microfluidic chips. Full article
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34 pages, 12218 KiB  
Review
Significance of the Powder Metallurgy Approach and Its Processing Parameters on the Mechanical Behavior of Magnesium-Based Materials
by Sachin Kumar Sharma, Sandra Gajević, Lokesh Kumar Sharma, Dhanesh G. Mohan, Yogesh Sharma, Mladen Radojković and Blaža Stojanović
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(2), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15020092 - 9 Jan 2025
Viewed by 549
Abstract
Magnesium-based materials, which are known for their light weight and exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, hold immense promise in the biomedical, automotive, aerospace, and military sectors. However, their inherent limitations, including low wear resistance and poor mechanical properties, have driven the development of magnesium-based metal [...] Read more.
Magnesium-based materials, which are known for their light weight and exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, hold immense promise in the biomedical, automotive, aerospace, and military sectors. However, their inherent limitations, including low wear resistance and poor mechanical properties, have driven the development of magnesium-based metal matrix composites (Mg-MMCs). The pivotal role of powder metallurgy (PM) in fabricating Mg-MMCs was explored, enhancing their mechanical and corrosion resistance characteristics. The mechanical characteristics depend upon the fabrication methodology, composition, processing technique, and reinforcement added to the magnesium. PM is identified as the most efficient due to its ability to produce near-net shape composites with high precision, cost-effectiveness, and minimal waste. Furthermore, PM enables precise control over critical processing parameters, such as compaction pressure, sintering temperature, and particle size, which directly influence the composite’s microstructure and properties. This study highlights various reinforcements, mainly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene nanoparticles (GNPs), silicon carbide (SiC), and hydroxyapatite (HAp), and their effects on improving wear, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength. Among these, CNTs emerge as a standout reinforcement due to their ability to enhance multiple properties when used at optimal weight fractions. Further, this study delves into the interaction between reinforcement types and matrix materials, emphasizing the importance of uniform dispersion in preventing porosity and improving durability. Optimal PM conditions, such as a compaction pressure of 450 MPa, sintering temperatures between 550 and 600 °C, and sintering times of 2 h, are recommended for achieving superior mechanical performance. Emerging trends in reinforcement materials, including nanostructures and bioactive particles, are also discussed, underscoring their potential to widen the application spectrum of Mg-MMCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanofabrication and Nanomanufacturing)
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17 pages, 2555 KiB  
Article
Zinc-Reduced Anticorrosive Primers—Water-Based Versus Solvent-Based
by Ewa Langer, Małgorzata Zubielewicz, Agnieszka Królikowska, Leszek Komorowski, Katarzyna Krawczyk, Matthias Wanner, Lukas Aktas and Michael Hilt
Coatings 2025, 15(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15010064 - 8 Jan 2025
Viewed by 512
Abstract
Coating systems used for anticorrosion protection usually consist of a primer, intermediate layers, and topcoats. Zinc-rich primers, which serve as cathodic and barrier protection, are widely used for the corrosion protection of steel structures. Due to the fact that the functioning of the [...] Read more.
Coating systems used for anticorrosion protection usually consist of a primer, intermediate layers, and topcoats. Zinc-rich primers, which serve as cathodic and barrier protection, are widely used for the corrosion protection of steel structures. Due to the fact that the functioning of the above-mentioned coatings is related to the conduction of galvanic current, these types of coatings are highly pigmented with zinc (up to 80 wt% in the dry coating). This may result not only in a deterioration of the performance of the coating system but also have a negative impact on the environment. Taking the above into account, solvent-based and water-based organic epoxy primers with zinc content reduced to approximately 50% have been developed. Zinc pigments of different shapes and with different surface treatments were used in the primers, as well as pigments without chemical treatment but with the addition of nanoparticles. It was found that, depending on the type of zinc pigment, both the developed solvent-based and water-based primers demonstrate good protective properties comparable to traditional zinc-rich coatings. Water-based paints tend to absorb more moisture compared to solvent-based systems, but their water uptake reversibility is limited. Moreover, the organic treatment of zinc flakes helps to improve this water uptake reversibility, improving the mechanical properties of coatings. Full article
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16 pages, 4793 KiB  
Article
Simulation of Surface Segregation in Nanoparticles of Pt-Pd Alloys
by Jose Brito Correia and Ana Isabel de Sá
Crystals 2025, 15(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15010053 - 7 Jan 2025
Viewed by 376
Abstract
Platinum (Pt) and palladium (Pd) are crucial in hydrogen energy technologies, especially in fuel cells, due to their high catalytic activity and chemical stability. Pt-Pd nanoparticles, produced through various methods, enhance catalytic performance based on their size, shape, and composition. These nanocatalysts excel [...] Read more.
Platinum (Pt) and palladium (Pd) are crucial in hydrogen energy technologies, especially in fuel cells, due to their high catalytic activity and chemical stability. Pt-Pd nanoparticles, produced through various methods, enhance catalytic performance based on their size, shape, and composition. These nanocatalysts excel in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) and direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) by promoting alcohol oxidation and reducing CO poisoning. Pt-Pd catalysts are also being explored for their oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on the cathodic side of fuel cells, showing higher activity and stability than pure platinum. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been conducted to understand the structural and surface energy effects of PdPt nanoparticles, revealing phase separation and chemical ordering, which are critical for optimizing these catalysts. Pd migration to the surface layer in Pt-Pd alloys minimizes the overall potential energy through the formation of Pd surface monolayers and Pt-Pd bonds, leading to a lower surface energy for intermediate compositions compared to that of the pure elements. The potential energy, calculated from MD simulations, increases with a decreasing particle size due to surface creation, indicating higher reactivity for smaller particles. A general contraction of the average distance to the nearest neighbour atoms was determined for the top surface layers within the nanoparticles. This research highlights the significant impact of Pd segregation on the structural and surface energy properties of Pt-Pd nanoparticles. The formation of Pd monolayers and the resulting core–shell structures influence the catalytic activity and stability of these nanoparticles, with smaller particles exhibiting higher surface energy and reactivity. These findings provide insights into the design and optimization of Pt-Pd nanocatalysts for various applications. Full article
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20 pages, 2932 KiB  
Article
An Assessment of the Cyto-Genotoxicity Effects of Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles and ATCBRA Insecticide on the Root System of Vicia faba
by May A. Al-Saleh, Hanan F. Al-Harbi, L. A. Al-Humaid and Manal A. Awad
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15010077 - 6 Jan 2025
Viewed by 511
Abstract
We aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Elettaria cardamomum (cardamom) extracts and assess the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the cardamom extract, cardamom–AgNPs, and the insecticide ATCBRA—commonly used for pest control—on the root system of Vicia faba (broad bean). The chemical composition [...] Read more.
We aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Elettaria cardamomum (cardamom) extracts and assess the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the cardamom extract, cardamom–AgNPs, and the insecticide ATCBRA—commonly used for pest control—on the root system of Vicia faba (broad bean). The chemical composition of the aqueous cardamom extract was identified and quantified using GC-MS, revealing a variety of bioactive compounds also present in cardamom essential oil. These included α-terpinyl acetate (21.3–44.3%), 1,8-cineole (10.7–28.4%), and linalool (6.4–8.6%). The successful green synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed through various micro-spectroscopic techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). UV-Vis analysis showed a strong peak between 420 and 430 nm, indicating the presence of AgNPs. TEM imaging revealed that the synthesized cardamom–AgNPs were monodispersed, primarily spherical, and semi-uniform in shape, with minimal aggregation. EDS analysis further confirmed the composition of the nanoparticles, with cardamom–AgNPs comprising around 60.5% by weight. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by measuring the mitotic index (MI), and genotoxicity was assessed by observing chromosomal aberrations (CAs). The roots of Vicia faba were treated for 24 and 48 h with varying concentrations of ATCBRA pesticide (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.7%), aqueous cardamom extract (3%, 4%, 5%, and 6%), and green-synthesized cardamom–AgNPs (12, 25, and 60 mg). The cytogenetic analysis of MI and CA in the meristematic root tips indicated an improvement in the evaluated parameters with the cardamom extract. However, a marked reduction in mitotic activity was observed with both ATCBRA and cardamom–AgNP treatments across both time points, highlighting potential cytotoxic and genotoxic effects. Full article
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18 pages, 9315 KiB  
Article
Anisotropic Microparticles with a Controllable Structure via Soap-Free Seeded Emulsion Polymerization
by Yanping Duan, Xia Zhao, Xiang Nan, Zhifeng Sun, Xiaoyun Lei, Wei Wang, Hong Hao and Jianfang Li
Molecules 2025, 30(1), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30010166 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 460
Abstract
Anisotropic particles have a wide range of applications in materials science such as emulsion stabilization, oil–water separation, and catalysis due to their asymmetric structure and properties. Nevertheless, designing and synthesizing large quantities of anisotropic particles with controlled morphologies continue to present considerable challenges. [...] Read more.
Anisotropic particles have a wide range of applications in materials science such as emulsion stabilization, oil–water separation, and catalysis due to their asymmetric structure and properties. Nevertheless, designing and synthesizing large quantities of anisotropic particles with controlled morphologies continue to present considerable challenges. In this study, we successfully synthesized anisotropic microspheres using a soap-free seed emulsion polymerization method. This approach combines the benefits of seed emulsion polymerization with emulsion interfacial polymerization. By varying the concentrations of dissolved polymeric monomers, 3-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS), and the initiator of potassium persulfate (KPS), different shapes of bowl, cap, and three-sided concave particles were obtained in surfactant-free aqueous solutions, simplifying the post-treatment process. The cap particles are Janus particles with good emulsion stability to toluene/water emulsions over 30 days. The catalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) was investigated after loading silver nanoparticles on the surface of the particles by in situ deposition. The anisotropic particles obtained in this work have potential applications in emulsion stabilization and catalysis. Full article
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26 pages, 4857 KiB  
Review
Penetration of Microplastics and Nanoparticles Through Skin: Effects of Size, Shape, and Surface Chemistry
by Arianna Menichetti, Dario Mordini and Marco Montalti
J. Xenobiot. 2025, 15(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox15010006 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Skin represents an effective barrier against the penetration of external agents into the human body. Nevertheless, recent research has shown that small particles, especially in the nanosized range, can not only penetrate through the skin but also work as vectors to transport active [...] Read more.
Skin represents an effective barrier against the penetration of external agents into the human body. Nevertheless, recent research has shown that small particles, especially in the nanosized range, can not only penetrate through the skin but also work as vectors to transport active molecules such as contrast agents or drugs. This knowledge has opened new perspectives on nanomedicine and controlled drug delivery. On the other hand, micro- and nanoplastics represent a form of emerging pollutants, and their concentration in the environment has been reported to drastically increase in the last years. The possible penetration of these particles through the skin has become a major concern for human health. If the actual primary toxicity of these materials is still debated, their possible role in the transport of toxic molecules through the skin, originating as secondary toxicity, is surely alarming. In this review paper, we analyze and critically discuss the most recent scientific publications to underline how these two processes, (i) the controlled delivery of bioactive molecules by micro- and nano-structures and (ii) the unwanted and uncontrolled penetration of toxic species through the skin mediated by micro- and nanoparticles, are deeply related and their efficiency is strongly affected by the nature, size, and shape of the particles. Full article
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21 pages, 5415 KiB  
Article
Hierarchical 3D FeCoNi Alloy/CNT @ Carbon Nanofiber Sponges as High-Performance Microwave Absorbers with Infrared Camouflage
by Yifan Fei, Junya Yao, Wei Cheng and Wenling Jiao
Materials 2025, 18(1), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18010113 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 412
Abstract
Microwave absorbers with infrared camouflage are highly desirable in military fields. Self-supporting 3D architectures with tailorable shapes, composed of FeCoNi alloy/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) @ carbon nanofibers (CNFs), were fabricated in this study. On the one hand, multiple loss mechanisms were introduced into the [...] Read more.
Microwave absorbers with infrared camouflage are highly desirable in military fields. Self-supporting 3D architectures with tailorable shapes, composed of FeCoNi alloy/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) @ carbon nanofibers (CNFs), were fabricated in this study. On the one hand, multiple loss mechanisms were introduced into the high-elastic sponges. Controllable space conductive networks caused by the in situ growth of CNTs on the CNFs contributed to the effective dielectric and resistance loss. Moreover, the uniformly distributed magnetic alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with dense magnetic coupling resulted in magnetic loss. On the other hand, heterogeneous interfaces were constructed by multicomponent engineering, causing interfacial polarization and polarization loss. Furthermore, the internal structures of sponges were optimized by regulating the alloy NPs sizes and the growth state of CNTs, then tuning the impedance matching and microwave absorption. Therefore, the high-elastic sponges with ultra-low density (7.6 mg·cm−3) were found to have excellent radar and infrared-compatible stealth properties, displaying a minimum refection loss (RLmin) of −50.5 dB and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) of 5.36 GHz. Moreover, the radar stealth effect of the sponges was evaluated by radar cross-section (RCS) simulation, revealing that the multifunctional sponges have a promising prospect in military applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electrostatic Spinning Micro and Nano Fibers)
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13 pages, 2744 KiB  
Article
Growth of MoS2 Nanosheets on Brush-Shaped PI–ZnO Hybrid Nanofibers and Study of the Photocatalytic Performance
by Zhenjun Chang, Zhengzheng Liao, Jie Han, Qiang Liu and Xiaoling Sun
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15010044 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 460
Abstract
The design and preparation of advanced hybrid nanofibers with controllable microstructures will be interesting because of their potential high-efficiency applications in the environmental and energy domains. In this paper, a simple and efficient strategy was developed for preparing hybrid nanofibers of zinc oxide–molybdenum [...] Read more.
The design and preparation of advanced hybrid nanofibers with controllable microstructures will be interesting because of their potential high-efficiency applications in the environmental and energy domains. In this paper, a simple and efficient strategy was developed for preparing hybrid nanofibers of zinc oxide–molybdenum disulfide (ZnO–MoS2) grown on polyimide (PI) nanofibers by combining electrospinning, a high-pressure hydrothermal process, and in situ growth. Unlike simple composite nanoparticles, the structure is shown in PI–ZnO to be like the skeleton of a tree for the growth of MoS2 “leaves” as macro-materials with controlled microstructures. The surface morphology, structure, composition, and photocatalytic properties of these structures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and UV–vis spectroscopy. The ultra high-volume fraction of MoS2 can be grown on the brush-shaped PI–ZnO. Decorating ZnO with nanosheets of MoS2 (a transition metal dichalcogenide with a relatively narrow band gap) is a promising way to increase the photocatalytic activity of ZnO. The hybrid nanofibers exhibited high photocatalytic properties, which decomposed about 92% of the methylene blue in 90 min under visible light irradiation. The combination of MoS2 and ZnO with more abundant surface-active sites significantly increases the spectral absorption range, promotes the separation and migration of carriers, and improves the photocatalytic characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
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21 pages, 5129 KiB  
Article
Peroxidase (POD) Mimicking Activity of Different Types of Poly(ethyleneimine)-Mediated Prussian Blue Nanoparticles
by Udara Bimendra Gunatilake, Briza Pérez-López, Maria Urpi, Judit Prat-Trunas, Gerard Carrera-Cardona, Gautier Félix, Saad Sene, Mickaël Beaudhuin, Jean-Charles Dupin, Joachim Allouche, Yannick Guari, Joulia Larionova and Eva Baldrich
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15010041 - 29 Dec 2024
Viewed by 577
Abstract
Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) have been identified as a promising candidate for biomimetic peroxidase (POD)-like activity, specifically due to the metal centres (Fe3+/Fe2+) of Prussian blue (PB), which have the potential to function as catalytically active centres. The decoration [...] Read more.
Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) have been identified as a promising candidate for biomimetic peroxidase (POD)-like activity, specifically due to the metal centres (Fe3+/Fe2+) of Prussian blue (PB), which have the potential to function as catalytically active centres. The decoration of PBNPs with desired functional polymers (such as amino- or carboxylate-based) primarily facilitates the subsequent linkage of biomolecules to the nanoparticles for their use in biosensor applications. Thus, the elucidation of the catalytic POD mimicry of these systems is of significant scientific interest but has not been investigated in depth yet. In this report, we studied a series of poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI)-mediated PBNPs (PB/PEI NPs) prepared using various synthesis protocols. The resulting range of particles with varying size (~19–92 nm) and shape combinations were characterised in order to gain insights into their physicochemical properties. The POD-like nanozyme activity of these nanoparticles was then investigated by utilising a 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)/H2O2 system, with the catalytic performance of the natural enzyme horseradish peroxidase (HRP) serving as a point of comparison. It was shown that most PB/PEI NPs displayed higher catalytic activity than the PBNPs, with higher activity observed in particles of smaller size, higher Fe content, and higher Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio. Furthermore, the nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced chemical stability in the presence of acid, sodium azide, or high concentrations of H2O2 when compared to HRP, confirming the viability of PB/PEI NPs as a promising nanozymatic material. This study disseminates fundamental knowledge on PB/PEI NPs and their POD-like activities, which will facilitate the selection of an appropriate particle type for future biosensor applications. Full article
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25 pages, 4510 KiB  
Article
Effect of Calcination Temperature on the Photocatalytic Activity of Precipitated ZnO Nanoparticles for the Degradation of Rhodamine B Under Different Light Sources
by Amira Saidani, Reguia Boudraa, Karim Fendi, Lamia Benouadah, Abderrahim Benabbas, Atmane Djermoune, Stefano Salvestrini, Jean-Claude Bollinger, Abdulmajeed Abdullah Alayyaf and Lotfi Mouni
Water 2025, 17(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17010032 - 26 Dec 2024
Viewed by 568
Abstract
This research provides valuable insights into the application of ZnO nanoparticles in photocatalytic wastewater treatment. Process optimization was carried out by determining the ratio of the surface area to the energy band gap (S/E) in the photocatalysis rate under different sources of light [...] Read more.
This research provides valuable insights into the application of ZnO nanoparticles in photocatalytic wastewater treatment. Process optimization was carried out by determining the ratio of the surface area to the energy band gap (S/E) in the photocatalysis rate under different sources of light (UV light, visible light, sunlight). The nanoparticles were synthesized using the precipitation technique, and the calcination process was carried out within a temperature range of 400 to 700 °C. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of materials were investigated using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance (UV-Vis DRS), Raman spectroscopies, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies. The study demonstrates that calcination temperature significantly influences the photocatalytic activity of ZnO nanoparticles by altering their size, surface properties, shape, and optical behavior. Optimal decomposition efficiencies of Rhodamine B were achieved at 400 °C, with yields of 24%, 92%, and 91% under visible, UV, and sunlight irradiation, respectively. Additionally, the surface area decreased from 12.556 to 8.445 m2/g, the band gap narrowed slightly from 3.153 to 3.125 eV, and crystal growth increased from 0.223 to 0.506 µm as the calcination temperature rose. The photocatalytic properties of ZnO nanoparticles were assessed to determine their efficiency in decomposing Rhodamine B dye under operational parameters, including pollutant concentration (C0), sample amount, pH level, and reaction time. The sample exhibited the best breakdown rates with C0 = 5 mg/L, solid-to-liquid ratio (S/L) = 50 mg/L, pH = 7, and reaction time = 1 h. Additionally, we combined two oxidation processes, namely H2O2 and photocatalytic oxidation processes, which significantly improved the Rhodamine B removal efficiency, where 100% of RhB was degraded after 60 min and 100 µL of H2O2. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biotechnologies for Water and Wastewater Treatment)
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