Search

A porous anti-reflective coating (P-ARC) with average transmittance in the visible range of 97.9% was fabricated through the sol-gel method, followed by calcination at a relatively low temperature (220 °C) using the porogen of Laureth-5 carboxylic acid via a one-step approach. The results demonstrated the coating had an absolute value that was 7.5% higher than that of bare glass (92%). The prepared porous anti-reflective coating had a refractive index as low as 1.21. The coating remained undamaged during 3M tape stripping tests while maintaining excellent light transmittance. This work presents a film that has good thermal stability, chemical stability, and mechanical stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review examines the current state of self-cleaning nanocoatings for building surfaces. Nanocoatings are a form of nano-structured materials that contain active components, such as photocatalysts, that provide superior self-cleaning properties when exposed to light. This review discusses the various materials and methods used in the development of selfcleaning nanocoatings, including titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and other metal oxide. The properties of these materials, such as photocatalytic activity, durability, and water repellency are described in detail. The review also provides a comprehensive overview of the preparation methods for nanocoatings, including physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, and sol-gel processing. Finally, the review concludes with a discussion of the potential applications of self-cleaning nanocoatings for building surfaces, such as reducing maintenance costs, improving aesthetics, and increasing energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique aimed at enhanced precipitation from clouds. Silver iodide, the material used in cloud seeding, is toxic to aquatic life. Therefore, precipitation from seeded clouds is harmful to the environment. In response to the concern, we report a novel approach of developing AgI loaded/encapsulated silica seed material for possible cloud seeding process. The traditional sol–gel alkoxide route is adopted to develop AgI/Silica composite. The obtained composite fulfils the requirement of seed material with high surface area (> 1000 m2/g), meso-porous structure, and low density (~ 0.2 g/cm3), which are the main requirements for cloud seeding programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Channel waveguides with diffraction gratings at their input and output for light injection and extraction, respectively, constitute the key components for applications in integrated optics and photonics. Here, we report for the first time on such fluorescent micro-structured architecture entirely elaborated on glass by sol-gel processing. This architecture particularly takes advantage of a high-refractive index and transparent titanium oxide-based, sol-gel photoresist that can be imprinted through a single photolithography step. This resist enabled us to photo-imprint the input and output gratings on a photo-imprinted channel waveguide doped with a ruthenium complex fluorophore (Rudpp). In this paper, the elaboration conditions and optical characterizations of derived architectures are presented and discussed with respect to optical simulations. We firstly show how the optimization of a two-step deposition/insolation sol-gel procedure leads to reproducible and uniform grating/waveguide architectures elaborated on rather large dimensions. Then, we show how this reproducibility and uniformity govern the reliability of fluorescence measurements in waveguiding configuration. These measurements demonstrate that: (i) our sol-gel architecture is well adapted to the efficient channel–waveguide/diffraction grating coupling at the Rudpp excitation and emission wavelengths; (ii) it enables an efficient propagation of the emission signal in the core of the waveguide allowing its photo-detection after extraction through the output grating; and (iii) it is affected by very reduced parasitic mechanisms, such as propagation losses and photobleaching features. This work constitutes a promising preliminary step toward the integration of our architecture in a microfluidic platform for further fluorescence measurements in liquid medium and waveguiding configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single phase and highly transparent ZnO:Tb films with a Tb concentration from 0.41 at% up to 0.78 аt% were formed on glass and silicon substrates by sol-gel deposition. The influence of ultraviolet radiation on the structural and photoelectric characteristics of n-ZnO:Tb/n-Si structures has been studied. The appearance of a photoelectric effect under the influence of a bias voltage and UV radiation (405 and 278 nm) was established, with an increase in photo effect when irradiated with shorter wavelength UV radiation (278 nm). It was shown that the concentration of the Tb3+ dopant is the determining factor for increasing the UV photosensitivity of the structures. The experimentally established selective sensitivity of n-ZnO:Tb/n-Si structures to UV radiation with a wavelength of less than 405 nm demonstrates the possibility of their use in UV radiation detectors or sun-blind detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanostructure (CNS)-based glass composites are an emerging area of research owing to the ability of these structures to dramatically alter the properties of the host glass. Due to their impressive electrical, mechanical, optical, and thermal properties, the novel characteristics imparted to the glass system with their incorporation have opened up new horizons for the development of innovative nanocomposite materials that can be used in different fields such as energy storage devices, sensors, actuators, optics, laser technology. Although several studies have been conducted on the inclusion of CNSs in polymer matrices, inorganic systems have gained relatively less attention. This review provides an overview of two principal synthesis techniques employed by researchers for the fabrication of these composites, i.e., melt-quenching and sol–gel processing. It summarizes the results obtained by researchers highlighting the role of CNSs in enhancing the functional properties of the host matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchical porous silicon carbide (SiC) attracts great attention due to its superior chemical resistance, high thermal shock resistance, and excellent thermal stability. The preparation of a porous SiC monolith via a simple sol–gel method is limited by either the high cost of the raw materials or the special time-consuming drying process. Herein, we report an ambient drying sol–gel approach for the synthesis of organic–inorganic hybrid monolithic gels which can be converted into hierarchical porous SiC monoliths upon pyrolysis at 1400 °C. The as-synthesized SiC monoliths possess hierarchical pores with macropores of 4.5 µm and mesopores of 2.0 nm. The porosities, specific surface areas and compressive strengths of the hierarchical porous SiC monoliths are 71.3%, 171.5 m2/g and 7.0 ± 0.8 MPa, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous MgF2 antireflective λ/4 films were prepared by sol–gel processing and coated with an additional top layer by electron beam evaporation. Scanning Electron Microscopy was applied to characterize the microstructure of the bilayer assembly. It can be shown that the top layer has a protective effect in terms of abrasion resistance and reduced solubility in water. In a second step the thickness of the two film systems has been matched to achieve optimum antireflection properties. Highlights: MgF2 was evaporated on sol–gel derived porous antireflective MgF2 coatings. The microstructure of the bilayer assemblies was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The evaporated layer provides improved abrasion resistance and reduced water solubility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MgF2 coating solutions were prepared by the fluorolytic processing of Mg(OEt)2 and MgCl2. Parts of these sols are solvothermally treated in an autoclave at 160 °C. The two respective precursors were used to prepare porous λ/4 antireflective films by dip-coating on soda-lime and borosilicate glass substrates. UV–Vis spectroscopy and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) were applied to characterize the films as a function of annealing temperature. Samples treated at 500 °C underwent testing of abrasion resistance and water solubility. Highlights: Parallel investigation of MgF2 antireflective coatings prepared from as-prepared sols and sols that have been solvothermally treated. Systematic comparison of results obtained on soda-lime and borosilicate glass substrates. Testing of abrasion resistance of porous films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid organic/inorganic nanocomposites combine the distinct properties of the organic polymer and the inorganic filler, resulting in overall improved system properties. Monodisperse porous hybrid beads consisting of tetraethylene pentamine functionalized poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) particles and silica nanoparticles (SNPs) were synthesized under Stoeber sol-gel process conditions. A wide range of hybrid organic/silica nanocomposite materials with different material properties was generated. The effects of n(H2O)/n(TEOS) and c(NH3) on the hybrid bead properties particle size, SiO2 content, median pore size, specific surface area, pore volume and size of the SNPs were studied. Quantitative models with a high robustness and predictive power were established using a statistical and systematic approach based on response surface methodology. It was shown that the material properties depend in a complex way on the process factor settings and exhibit non-linear behaviors as well as partly synergistic interactions between the process factors. Thus, the silica content, median pore size, specific surface area, pore volume and size of the SNPs are non-linearly dependent on the water-to-precursor ratio. This is attributed to the effect of the water-to-precursor ratio on the hydrolysis and condensation rates of TEOS. A possible mechanism of SNP incorporation into the porous polymer network is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy has been used to study structural evolution of zinc oxide synthesized by a sol–gel process adapted to flexible electronics. We assessed the effect of ultraviolet irradiation time on the atomic percentages of different Zn, O, and C species. Increasing the UV treatment time from 90 to 150 min has been shown to considerably reduce zinc concentration in the surface layer, which is accompanied by an increase in the percentage of carbon, predominantly in the form of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite. Photoactivation processes ensure completion of surface structure formation and lead to enrichment of the ZnO surface in oxygen with a binding energy of 531.5 eV, resulting in a zinc-deficient solid solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, fluorinated silica materials were prepared through sol–gel processing with tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), triethoxymethylsilane (MTES), and trimethoxyhexadecylsilane (HDTMES), using a fluorinated solution (FS) under acidic medium. The fluorinated solution (FS) was obtained by diluting the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in 2-propanol. These fluorinated sol–gel silica materials were placed on the glass surfaces in order to achieve the antireflective and hydrophobic fluorinated hybrid films. The structure and surface properties of the final samples were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and contact angle (CA) determinations. FTIR spectra demonstrated the presence of a silica network modified with alkyl and fluoroalkyl groups. Thermal analysis showed that the fluorinated sol–gel silica materials prepared with HDTMES have a good thermostability in comparison with other samples. Ultraviolet/visible spectra indicated that the fluorinated hybrid films present a reflectance of ~9.5%, measured at 550 nm. The water contact angle analysis found that the wettability of fluorinated hybrid films was changed from hydrophilic (64°) to hydrophobic (~104°). These hybrid films based on fluorinated sol–gel silica materials can be useful in various electronics and optics fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yttrium manganite, YMnO3, was doped with different concentrations of titanium (x = 0, 0.04, 0.08, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) in order to improve the microstructural and multiferroic properties. The powders were prepared using sol-gel polymerization complex method from citrate precursors. Depending on the titanium concentration, the hexagonal structure and/or the rhombohedral superstructure are present in the sintered samples. The YMn1–xTixO3+δ (x = 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) ceramic samples showed significantly reduced density of microcracks, and of inter- and intragranular pores, and relative densities greater than 90%. The structural parameters for YMn1–xTixO3+δ (x = 0, 0.10, 0.15) were correlated with the results of magnetic and ferroelectric measurements. The most of titanium-doped samples showed a reduction of the leakage current density in comparison with undoped YMnO3, and their ferroelectric responses were slightly improved. The modifications in structural arrangement resulted in partial suppression of ideal antiferromagnetic ordering visible through decrease of the Néel temperature and Weiss parameter, as well as the appearance of weak ferromagnetism and increase of magnetization (especially, in samples x = 0.08, 0.10, 0.15). These changes in physical quantities most likely originated from incorporation of the uncompensated magnetic moments and possible spin canting induced by enhanced symmetry break of the superexchange bridges. Highlights: Synthesis of YMn1−xTixO3+δ (x = 0–0.20) powders using sol-gel polymerization complex method. Synthesis method and doping reduced microdefects and increased ceramics' relative density. The leakage currents decreased in YMn1−xTixO3+δ ceramics upon doping. Reduction in geometrical frustration of antiferromagnetic structure after Ti-doping. Enhanced weak ferromagnetic response in YMn1−xTixO3+δ (x = 0.10, 0.15, 0.08) samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A talc-like magnesium phyllosilicate functionalized with amine groups (TalcNH2), useful as sensor material in voltammetry stripping analysis, was synthesized by a sol–gel-based processing method. The characterizations of the resulting synthetic organoclay by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, N2 sorption isotherms (BET method), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), CHN elemental analysis and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis-DRS) demonstrated the effectiveness of the process used for grafting of amine functionality in the interlamellar clay. The results indicate the presence of organic moieties covalently bonded to the inorganic lattice of talc-like magnesium phyllosilicate silicon sheet, with interlayer distances of 1568.4 pm. In an effort to use a talc-like material as an electrode material without the addition of a dispersing agent and/or molecular glue, the TalcNH2 material was successfully dispersed in distilled water in contrast to natural talc. Then, it was used to modify a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) by drop coating. The characterization of the resulting modified electrode by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) revealed its charge selectivity ability. In addition, EIS results showed low charge transfer resistance (0.32 Ω) during the electro-oxidation of [Fe(CN)6]3−. Kinetics studies were also performed by EIS, which revealed that the standard heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant was (0.019 ± 0.001) cm.s−1, indicating a fast direct electron transfer rate of [Fe(CN)6]3− to the electrode. Using anodic adsorptive stripping differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), fast and highly sensitive determination of Pb(II) ions was achieved. The peak current of Pb2+ ions on TalcNH2/GCE was about three-fold more important than that obtained on bare GCE. The calculated detection and quantification limits were respectively 7.45 × 10−8 M (S/N = 3) and 24.84 × 10−8 M (S/N 10), for the determination of Pb2+ under optimized conditions. The method was successfully used to tap water with satisfactory results. The results highlight the efficient chelation of Pb2+ ions by the grafted NH2 groups and the potential of talc-like amino-functionalized magnesium phyllosilicate for application in electrochemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemija is the property of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The metal compound of nanosize tricalcium phosphate, which is based on lime mineral and phosphoric acid, prepared by the sol–gel method, is investigated. The functional group of tricalcium phosphate is confirmed from the FTIR spectrum results, in which a hydroxyl functional group (−OH) tends to disappear at the temperature of 800°C and 1000°C. With both deficiency optimum number of –OH (3564 cm−1 ) and increase of the functional groups of PO4 3− (567 cm−1 and 601 cm−1 ) as asymmetry bending and PO4 3− (1039 cm−1, 962 cm−1, and 900 cm−1 ) as asymmetry stretching vibration modes, the metal compound is formed as tricalcium phosphate (TCP). The crystallographic plane orientations for metastable α-TCP are (001), and for rhombohedral β-TCP, they are (002) and (200), that is found from the XRD results. However, the crystallographic plane orientation for hexagonal α'-TCP is still unformed due to its temperature unreached. Inhomogeneous crystallites of the metal-compound nanosize tricalcium phosphate are confirmed in the relating parameters of crystallite sizes, strains, and dislocations, whereas the crystallinity increases when their temperature increases and is occurred at 800°C and 1000°C with numbers of ≅ 72% and ≅ 77%, respectively. The thermal characterisation is obtained by the specific heat capacity, the fusion and crystallization enthalpies, and weight loss calculated from results of differential scanning calorimetry–thermogravimetric (DSC–TG) and differential thermogravimetric (DTG) analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV protection and coatings for plastics are important in many applications. The cladding of low microwave (MW) absorption composite coatings on high MW transparent plastic substrates is a challenge due to their disparate dielectric properties. Moreover, an uneven heat energy conversion within the composite creates an additional hurdle in producing a coating with good surface integrity. In this study, a protocol was developed to overcome these difficulties based on a hybrid approach. The adverse effect of temperature mismatch between the coating and substrate was reduced through a two-way susceptor-aided heating mechanism. Low MW absorbing sol–gel derived composite coatings consisting of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) were successfully cladded on the surface of MW and visual light transparent polycarbonate to produce a clear protective coating with UV-resistance. Nanoindentation tests were conducted to assess the effectiveness of the proposed protocol. Significant enhancement in the surface elastic modulus and hardness were achieved. Highlights: A hybrid microwave cladding process has been developed for the fabrication of composite coating systems with disparate dielectric properties. The difficulty of processing low microwave absorbing and microwave transparent materials has been overcome. Fabrication of crack-free silicon dioxide (SiO2)/titanium dioxide (TiO2) composite coatings on polycarbonate substrates with enhanced surface mechanical properties has been demonstrated. This process greatly reduces the processing time from hours to less than a minute when compared to conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as pore modulating agent was studied in the preparation of monoliths formed by Nb2O5 nanoparticles dispersed in a silica matrix obtained by the sol–gel process. The obtained monoliths were characterized by gas adsorption, SEM and HRTEM (EELS coupled). The silica and nanocomposite monoliths showed high specific surface area and pore size varying between micro and macropores, depending on the amount of PEG used. The silica monoliths were transparent due to the micro and small mesopores, the nanocomposites with 1 and 5% of PEG were translucid and the nanocomposite with 3% of PEG were opaque due to spinodal decomposition induced by the interaction between the polymer and the niobium pentoxide precursor (ammonium niobate oxalate hydrate), which made it a promising candidate for flow catalysis or chromatographic columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pure rutile and Ag‐rutile nanomaterials were synthesised using sol–gel route and the effect of Ag concentration on the composite photocatalyst activity was investigated. The results show that the Ag0 particles are deposited on the rutile surface, forming Ag‐rutile heterojunctions. The high concentration of Ag is beneficial to inhibit the recombination of electrons and holes, meanwhile, excessive Ag particles will hinder the absorption of light source and adsorption of RhB molecules. Therefore, 2% of Ag rutile exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Letter reports the synthesis of nanoceramic composite ZnAl2O4TiO2 by using a cost‐effective and straight forward sol–gel route. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed the ZnAl2O4 cubic structure along with the mixed anatase‐ and rutile‐phases of TiO2. Rietveld refinement is performed using XRD pattern to study the structural parameters. Raman investigation endorsed the corresponding vibration peaks of TiO2 and ZnO. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy evidenced the agglomerated spherical nanoparticles. Energy‐dispersive spectroscopy analysis demonstrated the elementary peaks of Zn, Al, and Ti at 4.5, 1.5, and 1 eV, respectively. LCR measurement revealed the decreased dielectric permittivity with the rise in frequency and temperature. This dielectric characteristic is attributed to the dipole movement of the charge carriers. Furthermore, the authors present the investigation of the conductivity and impedance of the prepared dielectric ceramic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spherical gamma‐alumina (γ‐Al2O3) has a wide range of applications in the field of adsorption due to its low bulk density, larger pore size, higher strength and thermal stability. In this study, spherical γ‐Al2O3 with macro‐mesopores was prepared with isopropanol aluminium as the aluminium source via a sol–gel process. Spherical γ‐Al2O3 was characterised by means of nitrogen adsorption and desorption curve, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction and so on. The adsorption performance of the prepared spherical γ‐Al2O3 was studied by probe experiment of adsorption of acid fuchsin (AF) solution. The results showed that the spherical γ‐Al2O3, which was prepared under the condition of hydrolysis time of 1 h, hydrolysis temperature of 85°C, ageing temperature of 95°C and ageing time of 7 h, had the strongest adsorption capacity for AF, and the adsorption efficiency could reach 96.24% in 40 mg/l AF solution. In addition, after six cycles of use, the spherical γ‐Al2O3 had no damage and the adsorption efficiency still could reach 88.40%. This work provides a feasible method for the preparation of spherical γ‐Al2O3, and could also help to understand the connection between its textural properties and adsorption performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuneful behaviours of nano sized materials have been considered as challenge among researchers to explore the possibility of engaging in diverse applications. In particular, the zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructured materials offer effective metallic behaviours to enhance the applications in the fuel oxidation, pigments, nonlinear optics and solar energy conversion. In the presented research, ZnO nanoparticles are successfully synthesised by (sol–gel and sol–gel and precipitation) techniques, respectively. The physicochemical behaviours of ZnO nanocrystals were inspected by x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, thermo‐gravimetric analysis, N2 physisorption and NH3 temperature‐programmed desorption techniques. The results revealed that Sol–gel method at lower pH produced smaller particle sizes with larger surface area and well‐established morphology in shorter time at lower temperature conditions, in comparison to precipitation method with higher pH, time and temperature conditions, showed bigger particles with smaller surface area, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are anionic clays with unique physical and chemical properties. In this study, an indirect sol-gel synthesis method was applied to prepare alkaline earth metal–substituted layered double hydroxides of Mg2-xMx/Al1 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba). In the sol-gel processing, metal nitrates Mg(NO3)2·6H2O, Al(NO3)3·9H2O, Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, Sr(NO3)2 and Ba(NO3)2 dissolved in deionized water were used as starting materials; and citric acid monohydrate and 1,2-ethanediol were used as complexing agents. The mixed metal oxides (MMOs) were obtained after thermal treatment of precursor gels at 650 °C and subsequently reconstructed in water to the LDHs. The synthesis products were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Nitrogen adsorption by the Brunauer, Emmet and Teller (BET) and the Barret method was used to determine the surface area and pore diameter of the synthesized alkaline earth metal–substituted MMO materials. It was demonstrated for the first time that the formation of Mg2-xMx/Al1 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba) LDH from the sol-gel–derived powders depends significantly on the nature and concentration on the alkaline earth metal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The undoped titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc‐doped TiO2 gels were prepared by sol–gel method. The nano‐TiO2 powders were prepared by controlling the sintering temperature. The phase compositions of the sintered samples were analysed by powder X‐ray diffraction; the microstructure was analysed by high‐resolution transmission electron microscope; the photocatalytic activity was analysed by photochemical reactions instrument. The combined action of Zn2+ doping and heat treatment on phase transformation and photocatalytic performance of TiO2 were analysed. The results show that, when the Zn ion doping amount is within 1–5 mol%, it promotes the conversion of anatase to rutile transition as the presence of ZnTiO3. The photocatalytic performance of TiO2 sintered at 700°C is better than sintered at 400°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysts have been widely applied in the degradation of organic compounds using visible and ultraviolet radiation. Different synthesis approaches have been developed and optimized to produce efficient, eco-friendly, and inexpensive materials to photo-treat water samples contaminated with dyes, pigments, pesticides, and other organic pollutants. Over the last two decades magnetic materials have emerged as a potential alternative to facilitate catalyst isolation in heterogeneously catalyzed liquid-phase reactions. In this review, we focus on the discussion of several studies including the main synthesis processes and new protocol modifications for the fabrication of magnetic photocatalysts, and their impact on the catalyst morphology, efficiency, and recycling. Emphasis is given on the discussion of the synthesis strategies over last decade to produce photoactive catalysts including single-phase catalysts, composites, Multifunctional metal–organic framework materials, binary and ternary core–shell materials, and yolk–shell photocatalysts. Highlights: A review on magnetic materials for photocatalysis is given. Emphasis is given on sol–gel preparation methods utilized for the fabrication of magnetic photocatalysts. Discussion on different material types of magnetic photocatalysts is presented. Magnetic separation properties and efficiency are discussed based on the material structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the biochemical, molecular, and histopathological mechanisms involved in the hypoglycaemic effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) in experimental diabetic rats. ZnONPs were prepared by the sol–gel method and characterised by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). To explore the possible hypoglycaemic and antioxidant effect of ZnONPs, rats were grouped as follows: control group, ZnONPs treated group, diabetic group, and diabetic + ZnONPs group. Upon treatment with ZnONPs, a significant alteration in the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and the levels of insulin, haemoglobin A1c, and the expression of cluster of differentiation 4+ (CD4+), CD8+ T cells, glucose transporter type‐4 (GLUT‐4), tumour necrosis factor, and interleukin‐6 when compared to diabetic and their control rats. ZnONPs administration to the diabetic group showed eminent blood glucose control and restoration of the biochemical profile. This raises their active role in controlling pancreas functions to improve glycaemic status as well as the inflammatory responses. Histopathological investigations showed the non‐toxic and therapeutic effect of ZnONPs on the pancreas. TEM of pancreatic tissues displayed restoration of islets of Langerhans and increased insulin‐secreting granules. This shows the therapeutic application of ZnONPs as a safe anti‐diabetic agent and to have a potential for the control of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica‐encapsulated waterborne flaky aluminium (SEWFA) is widely used in industrial fields, but its corrosion hampers its long‐term use. Herein, a sol–gel method was used to prepare graphene oxide (GO)‐modified SEWFA (GO‐SEWFA). The oxygen‐containing functional groups of GO can react with tetraethyl orthosilicate to form a well‐dispersed silica/GO matrix on the surface of GO‐SEWFA. The hydrogen evolution results demonstrated that GO covalent bonding, combined with silica encapsulation on the surface of flaky aluminium, could effectively improve the anticorrosive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modifying the morphology of nanostructures and its influence on the features of the tailored nanoparticles (NPs) has attracted a great deal of interest. In this research, the morphological effect on magnetic properties of the bare or modified NPs was investigated. Bare NPs were fabricated by the sol–gel route and modified NPs were prepared using hydrophilic absorbent cotton (HAC) to architect morphology of the NPs. X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared analyses confirmed that pure SrAl1.3Fe10.7O19 NPs were synthesised based on the modified sol–gel method. Results indicated that HAC as a novel and affordable template modified the shape of the NPs. The obtained results by the diffuse reflection spectroscopy suggest that the optical performance of the NPs can be tuned by modifying the size of them. Additionally, the hysteresis loops of the vibrating sample magnetometer attested that the saturation magnetisation (Ms) of the modified NPs was elevated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycerolates of biogenic elements, in particular, silicon, zinc, and boron, are promising biocompatible precursors in sol–gel processing. We successfully used them in the synthesis of pharmacologically active glycerohydrogels exhibiting wound healing, regenerating, and, in some cases, immunotropic and antimicrobial effects. In this paper, a comparative in vitro study of the antimicrobial (antibacterial and antimycotic) activity of four glycerohydrogels differing in biogenic elements (silicon-, silicon–boron-, silicon–zinc-, and silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogels) was carried out. Using the methods of agar diffusion and serial dilutions, it was shown that silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel in general exhibited higher antimicrobial activity; silicon–boron- and silicon–zinc-glycerol hydrogels possessed lower activity; silicon-glycerol hydrogel demonstrated no antimicrobial properties. Differences in antimicrobial activity are associated with the structural features of hydrogels studied using advanced physicochemical methods, including electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, 11B NMR spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscope. It was found that a dispersion medium of silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel, which was separated by exhaustive extraction with ethanol, contained bis(glycerol)borate anions [B(C3H6O3)2]–, along with Zn2+ cations. The simultaneous presence of these ions is not characteristic of other hydrogels under study and, in our opinion, provides improved antimicrobial activity of silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel. Boron bisglycerolates and boric acid in a dispersion medium of silicon–boron-glycerol hydrogel provides its antimicrobial activity, whereas silicon–zinc-glycerol hydrogel containing only nanoscale particles of zinc monoglycerolate in cells of the 3D polymer network is less active. Silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel can be an efficient and safer alternative to conventional topical antimicrobial agents for treatment of diseases of skin and mucous membrane. Highlights: Silicon, zinc, and boron glycerolates are promising biocompatible precursors in sol–gel processing. The precursors were successfully used for preparation of pharmacologically active hydrogels. Combined silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity. Silicon–zinc–boron-glycerol hydrogel can be used as antimicrobial agent for topical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CoMnCrO4 spinel nanoparticles were prepared using the green and efficient sol–gel method. The synthesised nanoparticles were fully characterised by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction with Rietveld refinement, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analysis. The characterisation of the sample showed that the CoMnCrO4 NPs have a spinel cubic structure with a crystallite size of 14 nm, narrow bandgap (1.75 eV), and uniform spherical morphology with particle size about 25–30 nm. The CoMnCrO4 NPs demonstrated high photocatalysis capability towards the Congo red dye as a pollutant with a high and fast efficiency degradation of 90% after 30 min under the visible light irradiation. Also, the impacts of different parameters consisting of nanoparticle amount, initial dye concentration, irradiation time, light and dark on dye degradation efficiency were assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping is an effective way to enhance photocatalytic activity. Herein, the authors have synthesised a series of BiFe1−xTixO3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) nanocrystals through sol–gel methods. X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectra, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy images and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterisations indicate doping could facilitate the formation of Bi2Fe4O9 phase at low content, while inhibiting this formation at high content. Interestingly, the appearance of Bi2Fe4O9 improved the photocatalytic activity, which may be attributed to the spontaneous formation of heterostructure between Bi2Fe4O9 and BiFeO3 phases. The staggered energy bands between these two phases could effectively separate electrons and holes, resulting in enhanced photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of methyl orange (MO) dye wastewater pollution, TiO2–montmorillonite composite (TiO2–MMT) and Bi20TiO32–montmorillonite composite (Bi20TiO32–MMT) were synthesised by the sol–gel method, and they were used for photocatalytic degradation of MO solution. The results showed that TiO2 in TiO2–MMT existed as the anatase type, and Bi20TiO32 in Bi20TiO32–MMT existed as the tetragonal crystal type. When the dosage of the composite was 0.50 g/l, the initial concentration of the MO solution was 20 mg/l, and the pH was 3, the decolourisation rate of MO solution using TiO2–MMT treating was 87.11%, and it reached 98.50% after Bi20TiO32–MMT treating. When Bi20TiO32–MMT was reused four times, the decolourisation rate of the MO solution was only reduced by 3.5%. The photocatalytic degradation between MO solution and Bi20TiO32–MMT complied with the pseudo-first-order kinetic equation. Holes and superoxide radicals interacted directly with MO during photocatalytic degradation, which reduced the probability of hole–electron recombination, and improved the photocatalytic degradation property of Bi20TiO32–MMT. Bi20TiO32–MMT has excellent stability property, which makes it a good composite in the treatment of dye wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sol–gel method based on the rapid pyrolysis process was adopted to prepare Ni1−xCuxO (x = 0–0.1) films on glass substrates. The effects of Cu doping on the structural, morphological, electrical and optical properties of the films were characterised by X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, Hall effect instrument and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, respectively. The NiO-based films have a cubic rock salt structure and it was found that the film with x = 0.06 should have minimal residual stress. The transmittance and bandgap of the films decreased with increasing Cu-doping concentration. In addition, the compactness of the films increased along with the increase of Cu-doping concentration as a whole. The carrier concentration of the films was almost invariable, but the carrier mobility was determined by the competition between the effects of the morphology and the ionised impurity scattering. The resistivity of the films first decreases and then increases, and the minimum resistivity was 182.1 Ω cm at x = 0.06. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is planned to synthesise new biocompatible, nano antimicrobial formulation against biofilm producing strains. Aqueous root extract of Arctium lappa l. was used to synthesise ceria nanoparticles (CeO2 ‐NPs). The synthesised nanoparticles were encapsulated with nano‐chitosan by sol–gel method and characterised using standard techniques. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometer of Arctium lappa l. revealed the presence of ethanol, acetone, 1‐ propanol, 2‐methylethane, 1,1‐di‐ethoxy, 1‐Butanol, and oleic acid acted as reducing and surface stabilising agents for tailoring morphology of CeO2 ‐NPs. Erythrocyte integrity after treatment with synthesised nanomaterials was evaluated by spectrophotometer measurement of haemoglobin release having biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of mono dispersed beads shaped particles with mean particle size of 26.2 nm. X‐ray diffractometry revealed cubic crystalline structure having size of 28.0 nm. After encapsulation by nano‐chitosan, the size of CeO2 ‐NPs enhances to 48.8 nm making average coverage of about 22.6 nm. The synthesised nanomaterials were found effective to disrupt biofilm of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Interestingly, encapsulated CeO2 ‐NPs revealed powerful antibacterial and biofilm disruption activity examined by fluorescent live/dead staining using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The superior antibacterial activities exposed by encapsulated CeO2 ‐NPs lead to the conclusion that they could be useful for controlling biofilm producing multidrug resistance pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the preparation, characterisation, and efficiency of two different silica nanostructures as release vehicles of Cisplatin are reported. The 1‐hexadeciltrimethyl‐ammonium bromide templating agent was used to obtain mesoporous silica nanoparticles which were later loaded with Cisplatin. While sol–gel silica was very fast prepared using an excess of acetic acid during the hydrolysis–condensation reactions of tetraethylorthosilicate and at the same time the Cisplatin was added. Several physicochemical techniques including spectroscopies, electronic microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, N2 adsorption–desorption were used to characterise the silica nanostructures. An in vitro Cisplatin release test was carried out using artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Finally, the toxicity of all silica nanostructures was tested using the C6 cancer cell line. The spectroscopic results showed the suitable stabilisation of Cisplatin into the two different silica nanostructures. A large surface area was obtained for the mesoporous silica nanoparticles, while low areas were obtained in the silica nanoparticles. Cisplatin was released faster from mesoporous silica channels than from inside of aggregates nanoparticles silica. Cisplatin alone, as well as, cisplatin released from both silica nanostructures exerted a toxic effect on cancer cells. In contrast, both silica structures without the drug did not exert any toxic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The memristor, a two-terminal memory device with units of resistance, has continued to gain momentum as simpler and more versatile memristive devices are discovered. Amorphous metal-oxide devices have emerged as potential replacements for organic and silicon materials in thin-film electronics. This work presents memristive devices based on amorphous TiOx which were synthesized using a simplified sol-gel process that does not require a dry nitrogen flow step to fabricate amorphous films of titanium oxide (TiOx) for memristive devices. This simplified process significantly decreases the cost and complexity of the fabrication of memristive devices. The memristive behavior was characterized by I-V curves and read-write sequential pulses. We report on the effects of different TiOx layers on I-V curve behavior, stability, aging of the devices as well as the influence of interfaces and electrode materials in the memristive properties. Devices made as a stack of copper electrode, different TiOx layers and aluminum electrode showed best results for on/off ratio than other devices in this work, as well better stability of resistive switching properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports have recently been published on ultrathin biofluid barriers, which enable the long‐term measurement of biological signals and exhibit conformability on nonlinear surfaces such as skin and organs. However, inorganic‐ and organic‐based barriers have process incompatibility and high water permeability, respectively. Siloxane‐ (inorganic) based fluorinated epoxy (organic) hybrid materials (FEH) are demonstrated for bio‐fluidic barrier and the biocompatibility and barrier performance for flexible electronic systems as solution‐processed oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) on 1.2 µm thick polyimide (PI) thin film substrate is confirmed. FEH thin film can be patterned as small as 10 µm through conventional photolithography. The fabricated solution‐processed indium oxide TFTs with FEH barriers exhibit durable performance over 16 h with no dramatic change of transfer characteristics in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) environment. Furthermore, to realize FEH barriers for flexible systems, the solution‐processed indium oxide TFTs with FEH barriers on ultrathin PI substrate are demonstrated subjected to compression test and successfully measure the electrical properties with no irreversible degradation during 1000 cycles of mechanical testing in PBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optoferroelectric materials have attracted a great deal of attention in recent years. Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin films are fabricated on FTO glass substrates by sol–gel technique to investigate optical properties of the films. Heat treatment conditions and sol parameters are investigated to determine the optimum condition for fabricating the PZT thin films. Crack free almost pure perovskite crystal structure is formed at calcination temperature of 600 °C, for 5 min, and sol concentration of 0.33 mol/l. Increasing thickness of thin films raises the grain size and average roughness from 30 to 105 nm and 2.36 to 5.48 nm, respectively. FTIR analysis shows that 600 °C is an appropriate temperature for crystallization of PZT thin films due to the existence of metallic bond (M–O–M) in the spectrum. The films are characterized at different thicknesses for optical transmission and electrical investigation. Value of bandgap energy is estimated to be about 3.5 eV. It has been shown that the presence of rosette-type perovskite structure in the pyrochlore background has negative effect on capacitance and resistance of PZT films. Highlight: PZT film with almost pure perovskite structure is successfully synthesized via sol-gel method on FTO substrate. Optimum condition for PZT film deposition is 0.33 M sol, heat treated at 600 °C for 5 min. The average roughness value of PZT films with 4 and 16 layers are 2.36 and 5.48 nm, respectively. UV-Vis spectra demonstrate high transmittance and the value of band gap energy is 3.5 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the BixLa1−xMnO3+δ solid solutions (x from 0 to 0.65) were synthesized using sol–gel combustion method with citric acid as a fuel and complexing agent. It was shown that changes in chemical composition of the materials lead to the evolution of crystal structure, morphology, and magnetic properties. The thermal behavior of precursor gel was investigated by thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) measurements. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis demonstrated that all samples were monophasic. The Rietveld analysis showed that the structure can be indexed by trigonal or cubic unit cell depending on Bi3+ content. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate morphological features of the synthesized materials and revealed that Bi3+ ions significantly promote growth of the grains. The sol–gel-derived BixLa1−xMnO3+δ specimens were also characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy and magnetization measurements, which showed a clear correlation between magnetic properties and crystal structure of the materials. Highlights: BixLa1–xMnO3+δ solid solutions (x from 0 to 0.65) were synthesized by the sol–gel combustion method. The suggested synthetic approach does not require addition of external solvent. Structural, morphological and magnetic properties depend on the chemical composition of compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemija is the property of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

For the first time, aluminum oxynitride (ALON) powders were synthesized using the precursors processed through aqueous sol–gel procedures. Appropriate quantities of aluminum nitride (AlN) powder and aqueous boehmite sol were mixed to obtain molecular stoichiometry of AlON. However, during the course of process, AlN powders reacted with the aqueous boehmite sol and disintegrated into its hydrated compounds. Such reactions altered the molecular stoichiometry between boehmite and AlN which was initially formulated for the eventual formation of AlON. Extensive investigations were carried out to analyse the behavior of AlN during the sol–gel processing. Hydrolysis of AlN in the aqueous sol–gel medium was circumvented by subjecting AlN to a surface modification process. The homogeneously dispersed boehmite sol and AlN mixture was further gelled, dried, and heat treated at temperatures between 1600 and 1850 °C for the formation of AlON powder. AlON phase formation was confirmed through XRD investigations, and its physical and microstructural properties were also evaluated through FESEM and TEM analyses. AlON powder with an average particle size of 490 nm was successfully synthesized in this study. This process is suitable for producing AlON powder in bulk quantities, and it can be used readily for further processes such as shaping and sintering to produce various optical products based on AlON. Highlights: For the first time, Aluminum Oxynitride (AlON) powders were synthesized using aqueous sol–gel processing. AlN powders and aqueous boehmite sol were used as precursors. Surface modification treatement was carried out for AlN powder prior to its addition with the boehmite sol to retain its phase intact during the processing. Single-phase AlON powders with average particle size of 490 nm was successfully synthesized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein the authors present the synthesis of surface functionalised mesoporous alumina (MeAl) for textural characterisation by a simplified sol–gel method obtained by using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide as a template. Etoricoxib (ETOX) was used as a model drug for the study. Alumina supported mesoporous material containing drug was characterised using instrumental technique namely Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area, Fourier transform‐infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Diffusion study using a dialysis bag method used to check the release pattern of ETOX‐loaded‐MeAl. Results of characterisation study revealed the successful surface functionalisation of the drug on nanocomposite. The IC50 value obtained from cell viability study demonstrated the non‐toxic behaviour of synthesised drug‐loaded mesoporous alumina up to the tested concentration range. The present work has demonstrated that synthesised MeAl showed excellent stability with an expanded surface area suitable for carrier material for drug delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toxicity of arsenic in drinking water is hazardous for human health. Different strategies are used for arsenic removal from drinking water. Nanoparticles with higher adsorption capacities are useful for arsenic remediation. In the current study, magnesium ferrite nanoparticles were synthesised by three different methods followed by their characterisation XRD, SEM, and EDX. The SEM morphology and the porosity of magnesium ferrite nanoparticles were best in case of auto‐combustion method. These particles had an average particle size of about 20–50 nm with spherical shape. These particles showed efficient remediation of arsenic up to 96% within 0.5 h. However, the co‐precipitation and sol‐gel‐based nanoparticles showed arsenic remediation upto85 and 87% at 0.5‐h time point. Moreover, the minimum inhibitory concentration of nanoparticles against two strains E.coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be4.0 mg/L of these nanoparticles. However, the sol‐gel‐based nanoparticles showed efficient anti‐microbial activity against E.coli at 4.0 and 8.0 mg/L against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The co‐precipitation‐based nanoparticles were least efficient both for arsenic remediation and anti‐microbial purposes. Thus, the synthesised auto‐combustion‐based nanoparticles are multifunctional in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the preparation of high-surface-area mesoporous aluminophosphates by non-hydrolytic sol–gel method based on reactions of EtAlCl2 with trialkylesters of phosphoric acid (OP(OR)3, R = Me, Et, iPr, nBu, in dry organic solvents. The condensations proceed by alkylchloride elimination. Various reaction and calcination conditions were examined. Porosity is obtained after calcination by removal of organic residual groups. This thermal processing at 300 °C of as-synthesized precursor gels leads to amorphous aluminophosphate xerogels with surface areas of 400–500 m2 g–1 provided by small mesopores (2–8 nm). Changes in the coordination environment of aluminium from six- to four-coordinate are evidenced by shift of 27Al MAS NMR resonances. Highlights: Dichloroethylalane reacts with trialkylphosphates by alkylchloride elimination. Aluminophosphate gels are obtained from the non-hydrolytic sol-gel technique. Thermal processing at 300 °C leads to amorphous xerogels with surface areas of 400–500 m2 g–1. Porosity is composed of small mesopores (2–8 nm). Templating with Pluronic P123 significantly improves pore size distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel open‐tubular capillary electrochromatography column coated with β‐cyclodextrin was prepared using the sol‐gel technique. In the sol‐gel approach, owing to the three‐dimensional network of sol‐gel and the strong chemical bond between the stationary phase and the surface of capillary columns, good chromatographic characteristics and unique selectivity in separating enantiomers were shown. The influences of capillary inner diameter, coating time, organic modifier, buffer pH, and buffer concentration on separation were investigated. The sol‐gel‐coated β‐cyclodextrin column has shown improved enantioseparation efficiency of chlorphenamine, brompheniramine, pheniramine, zopiclone in comparison with the sol‐gel matrix capillary column. The migration time relative standard deviation of the separation of the enantiomers was less than 0.89% over five runs and 2.9% from column to column. This work confirmed that gold nanoparticles are promising electrochromatographic support to enhance the phase ratio of open‐tubular capillary electrochromatography column in capillary electrochromatography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to investigate the thermal behavior of as-prepared Gd–Ce–O acetate–oxalate (GCO–AO) precursors and their affinity to the decomposition processes of the starting materials by means of thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetric analyses (TG/DTG/DTA). Moreover, the influence of the temperature, heating atmosphere, and heat treatment time on both the morphology and crystal structure of the Ce–Gd–O gel precursor were additionally investigated in detail using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR). The obtained TG/DTG/DTA results revealed that the formation of the gadolinium-doped ceria (GDC) ceramic was closely related to the thermal decomposition processes of the initial compounds: gadolinium (III) acetate and cerium (IV) acetate. The powder XRD patterns of the heat-treated GCO–AO sample revealed that the crystallization process for the GDC ceramic starts at 1173 K, whereas the temperature and heat treatment time significantly affected on the surface morphology and the size of the obtained particles. Besides, the spectra of FT–IR analysis showed that the vibration modes of the oxygen–metal–oxygen (O–M–O) in GDC ceramic heat-treated at different temperatures were equivalent, although the sample heat-treated at 1273 K demonstrated a completely different optical behavior. In that case a strong absorption outspread in the region from 1000 to 500 cm−1 was observed, which could be attributed to the initial formation of the nano-sized spherical particles in size of about 50–100 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and sensitive analytical methodology is developed for rapid screening and quantification of selected estrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals and bisphenol A from intact milk using fabric phase sorptive extraction in combination with high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to ultraviolet detection/tandem mass spectrometry. The new approach eliminates protein precipitation and defatting step from the sample preparation workflow. In addition, the error prone and time‐consuming solvent evaporation and sample reconstitution step used as the sample post‐treatment has been eliminated. Parameters with most significant impact on the extraction efficiency of fabric phase sorptive extraction including sorbent chemistry, sample volume, extraction time have been thoroughly studied and optimized. Separation of the selected estrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals including α‐estradiol, hexestrol, estrone, 17α‐ethinyl estradiol, diethylstilboestrol, and bisphenol A were achieved using a Zorbax Extend‐C18 high‐performance liquid chromatography column (15 cm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm particle size). The limit of detection values obtained in fabric phase sorptive extraction with high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection ranged from 25.0 to 50.0 ng/mL. The method repeatability values were 3.6–13.9 (relative standard deviation, %) and intermediate precision values were 4.6–12.7 (relative standard deviation, %). The fabric phase sorptive extraction method was also coupled to liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry for identifying each endocrine disrupting chemical at 10 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous carbon materials are required for many applications, in order to avoid the diffusional limitations that occur with conventional activated carbons when processing large molecules or ions. The most rewarding approaches for the synthesis of mesoporous carbons involve sol-gel chemistry or the use of templates. Thus, carbon gels are obtained by polymerization of hydroxybenzenes and aldehydes by sol-gel processing, while ordered mesoporous carbons can be obtained from the same precursors in the presence of templates. In both cases, the textural properties of these nanostructured carbons can be easily adjusted by adequate selection of the synthesis variables. Their surface chemical properties can be modified by doping with heteroatoms and functionalization with surface groups. This can be done during the synthesis, or by subsequent treatments. The possibility of tuning both the texture and the surface chemistry is essential for the development of high-performance carbon materials that meet the requirements of the targeted applications. Recent advances and challenges related to the preparation of nanostructured carbon gels will be reviewed, together with relevant examples of their application in catalysis and energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, nanostructured hardystonite bioceramic (Ca2 ZnSi2 O7) was synthesised from tetraethyl orthosilicate, zinc nitrate hexahydrate, and calcium nitrate tetrahydrate via sol–gel method, dried at 60–120°C, and finally calcinated at 1300°C. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of hardystonite bioceramic. Afterwards, electrophoretic method was utilised to coat the hardystonite ceramic on 316L stainless steel (SS). Methanol solution was used as suspension solvent. The best deposition procedure was carried out by electrophoretic device in the voltage of 50 V for 5 min. XRD analysis was employed for phase characterisation and scanning electron microscopy was utilised for microstructural and morphological characterisations of the coatings. Chemical composition of the coating was evaluated by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The hardystonite coating improved the corrosion resistance of the substrate, so the corrosion current density in the coated samples was less than the uncoated ones (nine times). In order to assess the bioactivity of the coating, simulated body fluid was used. The main results of the coated sample bioactivity demonstrated that the nanostructured hardystonite coating could amend the in vitro SS bioactivity. Therefore, SS coated with nanostructured hardystonite may be a promising candidate to be applied as bioactive hard tissue implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanobiotechnology is one of the emerging fields and its interventions in agriculture is been attracting the scientific community. Herein, the authors first to report on control of groundnut bruchid (Caryedon serratus O.) using nanoscale zinc oxide (ZnONPs) particles and nanoscale chitosan (CNPs) particles‐based Azadirachtin formulations. ZnONPs and CNPs were prepared using sol–gel and ion tropic gelation techniques, respectively. Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) 5% and Neem oil (3000 and 1000 ppm) were encapsulated using the prepared nanoscale materials and characterised using the techniques such as dynamic light scattering, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Spherical‐shaped nanoparticles were formed after encapsulation with the required bio‐materials (ZnONPs 33.1 nm; CNPs 78.8 nm; neem oil encapsulated (3000 ppm) ZnONPs 182.9 nm; NSKE encapsulated ZnONPs 84.9 nm) and observed that the particles are stable (52.3 mV for ZnONPs, −36.2 mV for CNPs, −43.0 mV for neem oil encapsulated (3000 ppm) ZnONPs and −39.4 mV for NSKE encapsulated ZnONPs). NSKE encapsulated CNPs were able to contain groundnut bruchid up to 180 days with 54.61% weight loss compared to other formulations tested. Thus biomaterial encapsulated nanoscale material formulations are proved to be effective in controlling stored grain pests to reduce huge economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]