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Biodiesel has recently emerged as a renewable and environmentally benign fuel substitute for fossil‐derived energy sources. The use of heterogeneous solid catalysts for the generation of biodiesel from biomass‐derived fats and oils is sustainable. Among various reported catalyst supports, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been popular choices for enhancing catalytic activity for biodiesel synthesis because of several outstanding features including porosity, high surface area, adjustable structures, and uniform pore sizes. In this research, the authors synthesized a novel nanocomposite of MOF‐supported hydroxyapatite (UiO‐66@HAp) using a facile impregnation technique and the characterization of the as‐synthesized catalyst was performed by different spectroscopic methods including powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission gun‐scanning electron microscope (FEG‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and N2 adsorption–desorption techniques. After successful synthesis, the catalytic property of the prepared material was evaluated in the palm oil transesterification into biodiesel. Product formation was confirmed by the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, 13C NMR, FTIR, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of the biodiesel. The influence of different reaction variables such as catalyst dosage, methanol/oil molar ratio, temperature of the reaction, and reaction time was also studied. The outcomes revealed that the maximum biodiesel yield (∼97%) was obtained when 6 wt% catalyst was used with a 6:1 ratio of methanol/oil at 70 °C for 1 h. It was also observed that, even after 5 cycles of reuse, the catalyst was capable of producing significant amounts of biodiesel (over 90%). The results suggest that the synthesized novel catalyst holds a promising future in the sustainable production of biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, zinc sulphide (ZnS) nanoparticles are synthesized via solvothermal route using different capping agents. The sphalerite phase is detected by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The morphology of the nanoparticles is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The average particle size is found between 5 and 7 nm as calculated by HRTEM analysis. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) specified the desired elemental composition. Bandgap studies are done by UV–visible absorption and the photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) gives the emission peaks centered at 452 nm and 460 nm. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) of ZnS nanoparticles confirmed the presence of various functional groups and showed the encapsulation of capping agents. The cylindrical non-woven network of PAN-ZnS nanofibers synthesized by electrospinning technique as confirmed by SEM and the distribution of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix is confirmed by HRTEM analysis. EDX and FTIR showed the incorporation of ZnS nanoparticles in polymer matrix. The objective of the present work is to synthesize the PAN-ZnS composite nanofibers for antibacterial applications. To the best of our knowledge this type of studies using polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as a polymer are not found in the literature showing the novelty of our work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spin-wave based computing requires materials with low Gilbert damping, such as Ni 80 Fe 20 (Permalloy) or yttrium iron garnet, in order to allow for spin-wave propagation on a length scale comparable to the device size. Many devices, especially those that rely on spin–orbit effects for operation, are subject to intense Joule heating, which can exacerbate electromigration and induce local phase changes. Here, the effect of annealing on the Gilbert damping coefficient α of 36 nm Py thin films grown on a Si substrate is examined. Ferromagnetic resonance measurements, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, as well as energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy have been employed to determine α while also studying structural changes in the thin films. The Gilbert damping parameter was found to increase sixfold when annealed at 350 ° C, which was linked to the diffusion of Ni atoms into the Si substrate on a length scale of up to 50 nm. The results demonstrate that magnonic devices have to be treated with caution when Joule heating occurs due to its detrimental effects on the magnonic properties, but the effect can potentially be exploited in the fabrication of magnonic devices by selectively modifying the magnonic damping locally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth ferrite with manganese doping (BiFe0.95Mn0.05O3 or BFMO) and bismuth ferrite with cobalt and manganese doping (Bi0.95Co0.05Fe0.95Mn0.05O3 or BCoFMO) were both synthesized as nanocrystalline powders by the sol–gel autocombustion technique. X-ray diffraction examination of the powders indicates a rhombohedral distortion in the perovskite phase in both samples. The calcined powders were examined for their microstructure and elemental composition with high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the microstructures of sintered BMFO and BCoFMO specimens at room temperature. Dielectric characteristics were studied at various frequencies and temperatures and found to follow space charge polarization. At ambient temperature, a vibrating sample magnetometer was used to analyse the materials' magnetic behaviour (M–H loops). Saturation magnetization is significantly increased with increased coercivity in the BCoFMO sample compared to the other sample. Improved structural, dielectric, and magnetic values in these doped systems, however, suggest they'd be an excellent fit for spintronic, multifunctional memories, sensors, and actuators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis of novel quaternary AgInZn2Te4 quantum dots (QDs) utilizing organometallic hot injection procedures. By using octadecene and oleylamine as the coordinating solvents and dodecanethiol as the capping ligand, we could arrive at a phosphine-free "green route" for the synthesis. Detailed characterizations were performed using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), UV–Vis spectroscopy, and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy for the structural, compositional, and optical analyses. The nanostructures were spherical, monodisperse, highly crystalline with cubic structure, and having an average diameter of 6. 5 ± 0. 5 nm with optical features in the visible region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous cerium oxide (ceria) nanoparticles were prepared with and without manganese (Mn) by using the flash combustion technique. Samples with different loadings (Ce/Mn ratio ranged from 100 to 10) were prepared by using a one-step process and water only as a solvent. Moreover, citric acid was utilized as a fuel in an aqueous medium, and the overall synthesis mixture was dried at 100 °C overnight and then calcinated at 550 °C for 3 h. The obtained final solid product was characterized by inductively coupled plasma (ICP), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (DR-UV-Vis), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which was coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and photoluminescence (PL) analysis. The characterization data showed that Mn ions were totally incorporated into the framework of ceria up to the applied loading. Under visible light illumination, the photocatalytic activity of the prepared samples was tested in the decolorization reaction of methyl green (MG) dye (wavelength greater than 425 nm). The results showed that increasing Mn content improved the photocatalytic activity of ceria. The sample with a Ce/Mn ratio of 10 performed 1.8 times better than bare porous ceria. Finally, the reusability of the best-performing sample was investigated in four consecutive runs without treatment, and slight deactivation was monitored after the fourth run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, we have presented detailed studies of the effect of temperature-controlled hydrothermal fabrication techniques on the morphology and structural strain in magnetoelectric core-shell nanocomposite having magnetic CoFe2O4 core coated with a piezoelectric BaTiO3 shell. We have presented the effect of controlled cooling rate during annealing process of synthesis on the structural integrity and structural strain of the core-shell hetero-nanostructure. Using temperature controlled hydrothermal method, it has been observed that controlling the cooling rate to 20 °C/min while annealing process leads to low structural strain on the deposited BaTiO3 shell. This also leads to high structural integrity of the fabricated heterostructure nanocomposite. To measure the strain distribution in the coated shell, geometric phase analysis was performed on the high-resolution transmission electron microscopic image of the fabricated core-shell nanostructure. Semi quantitative Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy line scan elemental mapping have confirmed the elemental distribution throughout the nanostructure and formation of the core–shell structure. Moreover, through the geometric phase analysis, the core and the shell can be distinctively visualized which confirms the homogeneity of the coating of single crystalline BaTiO3 shell on the CoFe2O4 core. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a magnetically separated photocatalyst with great efficiency CuCe-Ferrite/TiO2 composite was prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier transformer infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Single-phase cubic spinel was formed by calcining the prepared sample at a temperature of 550 °C, according to the results. Different concentrations of reactive red 250 (RR250) dye photodegradation was evaluated using different doses of CuCe-ferrite/ TiO2 and TiO2 NPs. Higher efficiency of RR250 photodegradation up to 100% was obtained using CuCe-ferrite/ TiO2. The photodegradation efficiency was confirmed using chemical oxygen demand (COD) test of both treated and untreated samples. The oxidation process was mostly mediated by photogenerated .O2− according to scavenger test results. The catalyst possess higher photodegradation efficiency even after regeneration for ten times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First report on C-dots derived from beetroot and Fabrication of 0D/0D C-dots@CdS heterostructured photocatalysts. • C-dots@CdS showed superior activity with H 2 evolution rates of 1582 µmolg−1 than the pristine CdS (849 µmolg−1). • Achieved 97.3 % degradation efficiency of CV dye under visible light for C-dots@CdS. • The presence of C-dots in heterojunction increases the charge carrier separation leading to highest photocatalytic activity. Carbon dots (C-dots) developed from beetroot is used for the rational design of cadmium sulphide based heterojunction photocatalysts (C-dots@CdS) using hydrothermal technique. The crystal structure, phase, morphology and optical characteristics of the synthesised materials are determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, UV–Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL spectroscopy), BET adsorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electrochemical studies. Using C-dots@CdS catalytic system, a superior photocatalytic activity relative to the undecorated CdS is observed. Among the C-dots@CdS samples, the CdS loaded with 6 wt% of C-dots exhibited enhanced hydrogen evolution rate compared with other samples considered for the study. CdS nanospheres modified with C-dots (6 wt%) resulted in the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 1582 µmolg−1 against 849 µmolg−1 evolution rate obtained for CdS nanospheres within 3 h. In spite of being 0D/0D type nano-heteroarchitecture, C-dots@CdS system obtained an apparent quantum yield of 6.37 % for the catalytic dosage of 20 mg under the irradiation of visible light. CdS in the C-dots@CdS system serves as the light harvester while C-dots with discernible edges can maintain the continuous supply of photo-excited charge carriers and hence can reduce the charge-carrier recombination. Further, the photodegradation of crystal violet dye using the optimised dosage of C-dots@CdS-6 exhibited an efficiency of 97.3 % in 120 min of visible light irradiation under neutral conditions. The detailed kinetic study reveals that the mechanism of photodegradation of crystal violet dye using C-dots@CdS system can be described using pseudo-second-order kinetics. The presence of oxygen rich hydrophilic surface functionalities of C-dots, the formation of near-surface heterojunction and the suitable band structure of C-dots@CdS system leading to the optimum charge carrier separation kinetics can be attributed to the enhanced photocatalytic performance. This work offers a promising strategy to develop bio-derived C-dots based heterojunction photocatalyst to address the burgeoning energy and environmental demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon-based composite materials prepared through green synthetic approach are attracting greater interest in electrochemical applications due to their sustainable nature. Herein, we developed Fe 2 O 3 and Fe 2 O 3 @CNT composite materials via a green mechanochemical one-pot method. The as prepared composite materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. Incorporating Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles on CNT surface tunes its electronic structure as well increases active sites and thus enhance the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. As a result, the fabricated Fe 2 O 3 @CNT is a highly effective and balanced electrocatalyst that delivers superior current density (j = 10 mA cm−2) at low overpotential (η = 270 mV) for OER compared with pristine Fe 2 O 3 (η = 290 mV) in 1 M KOH. Further, Fe 2 O 3 @CNT electrocatalyst shows high long-term durability in 1 M KOH for 100 h, fulfilling all the advantageous viable standards for OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetragonal SmVO4 nanorods were prepared by simple solvothermal route with various temperatures. An optimised SmVO4 sample was characterised through X-ray diffraction spectrum (XRD) and Micro-Raman spectroscopy. These results confirm that high crystallinity and pure tetragonal phase of SmVO4 can be achieved. For morphology analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) techniques were performed. These results confirmed the rod shape SmVO4 nanoparticles with no impurities. For optical properties, UV-visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) techniques were performed. A broad absorption (290 nm – 330 nm) occurred in UV-Vis spectrum leads to multiple excitations and emissions at 542.7 nm, 600.5 nm and 643.7 nm with 4G5/2→6H5/2 (green), 4G5/2→6H7/2 (orange) and 4G5/2→6H9/2 (red), respectively. Finally, Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) study showed that the prepared SmVO4 nanoparticles possessed paramagnetic nature with high retentivity of 366.06 emu. Electrochemical performance of SV1 electrode shows pseudocapacitance nature with high specific capacitance value of 310 F/g (1 A/g) from GCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on fabrication of nanofibrous membrane to filter microbial aerosols using silver nanoparticles. Nanofibrous membrane was formed with silver nanoparticles (AgNp) and polyvinyl butyral (PVB) using electro spinning technology. The optimized nanofibers were characterized for the effective formation, morphology, and thermal sensitivity using High Resolution Scanning Electron microscopy (HR-SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and Thermo gravimetric study (TGA). Chemical components present in the aqueous leaf extract that reduces the monovalent silver were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. HR-SEM analysis confirmed homogenous fiber diameter with smooth surface for the obtained AgNPs-PVB membranes. The PVB loaded AgNPs have shown up to 19% weight loss at 956°C which was ascertained through TGA. Microbial loading on the filter, microbial survival, filtration efficiency, and antimicrobial efficiency of the fabricated membrane were evaluated. The fabricated membrane exhibited both bacterial and fungal filtration efficiency to an extent of 98.81% and 98.85%, respectively. Experimental data were compared theoretically using predicted mathematical model that established best fitting and was highly compatible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of antibiotic resistance and the continuing evolution of resistance even to newer drugs have always been a global challenge. In the pursuit of innovative solutions, there is growing interest in using nanomaterials with antibacterial potentials to combat this menace. Objectives: In this study, plant extract cocktail-mediated silver nanoparticles (PAgNPs) was used to stimulate the antibacterial effect of ampicillin (AMP) against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens. Methods: The agar well diffusion technique was used to investigate the potentials of PAgNPs in activating the antibacterial activity of AMP in MDR bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pnuemoniae, Micrococcus luteus, and Clostridium difficile. Plant extract cocktail-mediated silver nanoparticles were synthesized by reacting 9 mL of 1 mM of silver nitrate with 0.5 mL each of Citrus limon juice and aqueous Newbouldia laevis extract under bright sunlight for 10 minutes. Plant extract cocktail-mediated silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) and higher resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Results: Plant extract cocktail-mediated silver nanoparticles colloidal solution was reddish-brown with a 441-nm surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption peak. The HRTEM micrograph showed the varied shaped silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with the average size of 23.49±10.49 nm. Similarly, EDS showed a strong typicalmetallic silver nanocrystallites absorption peak at 3.0 keV. The PAgNPs activate the AMP activity in MDR E. coli, M. luteus, K. pnuemoniae, and C. difficile. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that PAgNPs can be considered a suitable candidate for developing novel antibacterial drugs to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effort has been made to develop and synthesize novel CoCr2O4@GeO2@ZnO core–shell nanostructure gas sensor via sol–gel method. The products obtained were analysed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), and Brunaure–Emmet–Teller (BET) analysis. In the present study gas sensing properties of CoCr2O4, CoCr2O4@GeO2, and CoCr2O4@GeO2@ZnO were studied. The thick films of cobalt chromite and core–shell CoCr2O4@GeO2, and CoCr2O4@GeO2@ZnO were prepared by screen printing technique. The sensing efficiency of these films was checked for various gases including CO, CO2, Cl2, H2, NH3, and H2S. Among these metal oxide-based sensing materials, CoCr2O4@GeO2@ZnO shows highest response at 200 °C for H2S is 627.01, as compared CoCr2O4@GeO2 is 524.01. The pure chromite (CoCr2O4) shows NH3 gas response is 513.21 at 250 °C. The gas response, selectivity, thermal stability and recovery time of sensor is also studied. The humidity dependence of the sensor response for CoCr2O4@GeO2@ZnO was investigated within the test chamber at 100 °C. The statistical analysis data for gas detection is also predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-Bi 2 O 3 and Ni-incorporated β-Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles with different Ni incorporating amounts (0, 2, and 4 at. wt. %) were successfully synthesized through a viable hydrothermal process. As-synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed by complementary analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) for structural, microstructural, compositional, and spectral properties. The photocatalytic performance of synthesized nanoparticles was assessed by subjecting them to visible light irradiation and monitoring the decomposition of rhodamine-B dye. The findings demonstrated that the inclusion of Ni(4%) in β-Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles significantly enhanced its photocatalytic activity compared to pristine β-Bi 2 O 3 which is desirable for environmental remediation. This improvement may be caused by increased generation of electron-hole (e−-h+) pairs, reduced recombination rate of these pairs, enhanced absorption of visible light, and a decreased band gap energy. To evaluate the specific capacitance characteristics of synthesized electrode materials, cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and electrochemical impedance analyses were conducted. The super capacitance activities of prepared electrode materials were observed in the order of Bi 2 O 3 < Ni(2%)-Bi 2 O 3 < Ni(4%)-Bi 2 O 3. Notably, Ni(4%)-Bi 2 O 3 nanocomposite exhibited higher supercapacitance, which can be attributed to the effective role of appropriate nickel incorporation in Bi 2 O 3. These results suggested that the incorporation of Ni(4%) into β-Bi 2 O 3 to form a nanocomposite showed greater capability as an effective electrode material for advanced energy storage devices, especially supercapacitors. Ni (0,2,4%) incorporated-Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and characterized through viable techniques. Ni (4%)- Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles have shown enhanced visible light driven photocatalytic activity against organic dyes for environmental remediation. It also exhibited high supercapacitance desirable for high capacity electrode material employable in supercapacitors. [Display omitted] • Ag NPs-loaded brookite TiO 2 NWs supported on rGO sheets were produced hydrothermally. • Structure and morphology were evaluated by XRD, XPS and SEM/TEM. • Ag–TiO 2 /rGO nanohybrid exhibited an excellent light induced photocatalytic performance. • A suitable schematic mechanism was proposed for photocatalytic degradation of dye. • Ag–TiO 2 /rGO nanohybrid demonstrated fairly high electrochemical electrode material characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High manganese steel is influenced by the combined effects of corrosion and wear during service under specific conditions, resulting in components with shortened service life. Under harsh service environments, newly developed Cr+N alloyed austenitic high manganese steel (Mn18Cr7C0.6N0.2 steel) as a new type of railway steel has shown promising results. Herein, the tribocorrosion behaviors of Mn18Cr7C0.6N0.2 and Mn13C1.1 steels in artificial acid rain were studied using electrochemical methods, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopemicroscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (STEM-EDS), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The results showed the formation of passive film and gradient-nanostructure on surfaces of both test steels during tribocorrosion. A dense and tightly adhering amorphous passive film was formed on Mn18Cr7C0.6N0.2 steel surface with a superior blocking effect toward invasive ions. The high strain resistance and plasticity of the Mn18Cr7C0.6N0.2 steel resulted in an intact gradient-nanostructure, suitable for obtaining high surface hardness and maintaining the toughness of the matrix, contribute to providing high wear resistance. The oxide film on the Mn13C1.1 steel surface comprised crystal α-FeOOH. Vortex cracks formed in its gradient structure due to strain localization. Meanwhile, the relatively poor corrosion protection ability and vortex cracks of its gradient-nanostructure prevented it from maintaining interface integrity of the gradient nanostructure, resulting in inferior tribocorrosion resistance. In artificial acid rain, the new type of Cr+N alloyed Mn18Cr7C0.6N0.2 steel exhibited higher tribocorrosion resistance than traditional high manganese steel, promising for use as an excellent wear-resistant material under corrosive environments. • An amorphous passive film formed on the surface of Cr+N alloyed high-Mn steel. • The gradient-nanostructure of Cr+N alloyed high-Mn steel maintained integrity. • Vortex cracks formed in the gradient-nanostructure of traditional high-Mn steel. • Gradient-nanostructure and passive film determined the tribocorrosion resistance. • The surface layer and passive film were fully observed by FIB and TEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the combination of good thermo-optical properties and inhomogeneously broadened fluorescence spectra suitable for ultrashort laser pulse generation, rare-earth doped solid solutions of sesquioxides (Y,Lu,Sc) 2 O 3 have attracted considerable interest in recent years. In this study, compositionally disordered Tm3+-doped YScO 3 transparent ceramic was fabricated using solid-state vacuum sintering of nanopowder produced using laser ablation of solid target in air flow. The as-synthesized powder consisted of weakly aggregated spherical particles having 20 nm diameter and a mostly monoclinic (space group C 2/ m) crystal structure, whose symmetry was transformed into cubic (space group Ia -3) by calcination at 1050 °C. From high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), we observed a homogeneous distribution of components both throughout individual nanoparticles and 100-nm-thick ceramic foil resulting in high structural and optical quality of the obtained samples. The sintered ceramic featured an optical transmission of 77% at 600 nm and above 81% near 2 μm, an average grain size of 24.2 μm and a content of scattering centers of 26.1 ppm. The absorption spectra at several temperatures, from 93 K to 293 K, were measured and the corresponding absorption coefficients were obtained by Lambert-Beer formula in the range from 600 nm to 900 nm and from 1400 nm to 2100 nm. In particular, the room temperature absorption cross section at 794 nm and 1634 nm were determined to be σ abs = 4.25 × 10−21 cm2 and σ abs = 5.01 × 10−21 cm2 respectively. Concerning the emission cross section it was calculated by Fuchtbauer-Ladenburg equation starting from the fluorescence spectrum acquired at the laser work temperature: at 1951 nm and 2106 nm corresponding to the main two emission peaks belonging the curve, it was found σ em = 9.2 × 10−21 cm2 and σ em = 4.9 × 10−21 cm2, respectively. Finally, it was tested the laser behavior of the ceramic: pumped at 793 nm in quasi -CW mode it delivered 1.27 W of output power with a slope efficiency of 10.33% at 2081 nm. The tunability curve spans from 1942 nm to 2110 nm (i. e. 168 nm). • Tm 0.05 (Y 0.5 Sc 0.5) 1.95 O 3 laser ceramic. • Solid-state vacuum sintering from laser-ablated (Tm,Y,Sc) 2 O 3 nanoparticles. • Tm-based laser with emission peak at 2081 nm. • Broad laser wavelength tuning range (from 1942 nm to 2110 nm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexural behavior of red deer's (Cervus Elaphus) antler is managed by not only orientation of osteons but also age, number density of fully fledged Cross-Linking Fibers (CLFs) and mineralization. Although crack propagation is affected by all these factors, a possible role of CLFs during the deformation remains rather disguised. The aim of this study was to enlighten the effect of dimensions, micro skeleton and mineral content of CLFs on plastic deformation. Therefore, mechanical properties, microarchitecture and mineralization of fracture sites of deer antlers were investigated using three-point bending tests in 32 specimens followed by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). The bending tests show that maximum bending strength is in the range of 150–177 MPa, and elastic modulus approximates to 5–6 GPa. Furthermore, fracture toughness of the test specimens examined for all branching groups of antlers was 8–9 MPa · m 1 / 2 . Age and the number of branching albeit are main reasons for differentiating microarchitecture and varying mechanical properties. SEM analyses show that a hierarchical architecture from bottom to up exists, in which some feathers and nano-sized fibrils are attached to larger fibrils that brings CLFs altogether. Antlers of adolescent deers are supposed to have shorter and thinner cross-linking fibers than elder ones. Some feathered micro-fibrils were identified across the CLFs connecting osteons. The thickness (270.0–320.0 nm) and length (700 nm) of feathers were strictly proportional to the microfibrils' size (10.0 µm in length and 1.0 µm in thickness). Furthermore, weight percentages of minerals varies along the CLFs that taking root on osteons by a bundle of many smaller fibrils whereas Pb, Cd and Hg have the highest values at the tip of broken CLFs. Such high values of these brittle elements lead to cracked ligament bridging as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are sought after by many industries including food industries, heavy metal sensing, pharmaceutical, and textile. The present study reports on the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and theirs antibacterial activity using a methanolic leaf extract of Heteropyxis natalensis, a native South African medicinal tree. The synthesised particles were characterised by ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), energy dispersive Xray spectroscopy (EDX), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A colour change of the reaction solution from yellow to brown preliminarily confirmed the presence of AgNPs, and a single absorbance peak at 422 nm, using UV-vis spectroscopy, was the indicative of AgNPs. While EDX revealed the presence of elemental silver in the sample, HRTEM identified spherical AgNPs ranging from 5-60 nm. Hydroxyls, alkynes, alkenes, alkanes, esters, and alkyl halides as possible capping agents of silver ions (Ag+) into AgNPs were identified by FTIR. In addition, AgNPs exhibited antibacterial efficacy against 5 strains of pathogenic bacteria: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis. The results obtained in this study could potentially benefit future research in nanomedical-driven fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we report a facile approach for the preparation of a magnetically separable Fe3O4@poly(m‐phenylenediamine)@Cu2O nanocatalyst and its catalytic efficiency in the synthesis of 5‐phenyl‐[1,2,3]triazolo[1,5‐c]quinazolines from (E)‐1‐bromo‐2‐(2‐nitrovinyl)benzenes, aldehydes, and sodium azide under mild reaction condition is described. The morphology, chemical composition, interior structure and magnetic properties of the Fe3O4@PmPDs@Cu2O nanocomposites were studied using powder X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometer and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption technique. The as‐prepared Fe3O4@PmPDs@Cu2O nanocatalyst was simply recovered using external magnet and reused up to successive six runs with no obvious loss in its catalytic efficiency and structural integrity (confirmed by powder X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy of recycled nanocatalyst) along with low leaching of copper (2.32 ppm) and iron (0.008 ppm) ions. The present protocol has a broad substrate scope with high yield in shorter reaction time and it does not require any additive or base. Overall, it has better green chemistry metrices like low E‐factor (0.93), process mass intensity (1.93), high reaction mass efficiency (51.9 %) and carbon efficiency (95 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current investigation, HA nanorods and nanoplates with a high surface area have been synthesized using the chemical precipitation method via alcogel formation employing L -arginine as a crystal growth modifier. The prepared HA particles have been characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA) and nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis. A representative morphology-dependent catalysis of the synthesized HA particles has been attempted using the Henry reaction under solventless conditions. The HA nanorods have been found to catalyze the Henry reaction with 100% conversion and 84.1% yield while the nanoplates were found to be catalytically inactive. A plausible mechanism supported by DFT studies has been proposed for the observed morphology-dependent catalysis of Henry reaction signifying the importance of surface Ca2+ ions in lowering the LUMO levels of the substrate besides assembling the reactants to proximity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deteriorating quality of water owing to the existence of toxic chemicals in ecological water sources due to industrial effluents has become a cause for concern these days. An electrocatalytic device was fabricated for the detection of the haematotoxic pollutant quinol (QL) using barium titanate nanoparticles (BaTiO3 NPs). A sustainable co-precipitation method was employed to synthesize the BaTiO3 NPs. Then, their physical characteristics were confirmed using techniques such as X-ray diffraction to elucidate their crystalline nature, scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy to study their surface morphology, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to analyze their elemental composition. The prepared BaTiO3 NPs were applied over a disposable screen-printed electrode and used for the determination of QL with a wide dynamic response range (0.001–340 μM), low detection limit (0.009 μM) and excellent sensitivity (1.19 μA μM−1 cm−2). The superior electrical conductivity of the BaTiO3 NPs/SPCE is associated with a low s-value and high number of non-bridging oxygen ions present in the nanoparticle structure. The proposed sensor displays excellent selectivity, reproducibility and storage stability as a QL sensor. Additionally, the superior sensing performance of the BaTiO3 NPs was effectively applied in water samples, with acceptable recovery values towards hazardous environmental pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl orange (MO), which is known as a highly durable dye that is extremely toxic to humans and animals, has been processed by using various methods. In recent years, MO degradation through reduction in the presence of NaBH 4 (NB) and suitable nanocatalyst have garnered considerable interest. However, the nanosized particles of the catalyst make separation from the liquid solution more difficult and limit the practical application of this technique. Herein, copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) decorated on three-dimensional chitosan aerogel (CSA) were synthesized as a reusable composite for the catalytic degradation of MO by using a green method with durian (Durio zibethinus) shell (DS) extract as a reducing agent. The Cu/CSA composite's physicochemical properties were characterized by using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy- energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), high resolution Transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and Raman spectroscopy. These modern techniques elucidated the structure and formation of copper nanoparticles on the CSA surface. The copper nanocatalysts have an average particle size of 32.6 nm, specific surface area of 55.8 m2/g, pore size of 32 Å and pore area of 0.049 cm3/g. Through the investigation of catalyst activity, the conditions of MO reduction were optimised with the 1.0 Cu/CSA sample, catalyst dose of 0.5 g/L and a molar ratio of MO/NB of 1/200. The reaction reached over 94.3% efficiency after 10 min, correlating with a kinetic rate constant of 0.163 min−1. It is worth mentioning that the optimized catalyst can be conveniently synthesized and retrieved from the reaction solution in just 5 s using a vacuum filter. Furthermore, its effectiveness remains largely unaffected even after undergoing five cycles of reuse, thus demonstrating its exceptional durability and potential in environmental remediation. [Display omitted] • An alternative chitosan aerogel-based support for metal nanoparticles. • Nano-copper/chitosan aerogel (Cu/CSA): a benign reduction using durian shell extract. • Outstanding reactivity of Cu/CSA in the catalytic reduction of methyl orange. • High stability and proficient reusability of Cu/CSA during 5 consecutive cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by green synthesis from fungi polysaccharides are attracting increasing attention owing to their distinctive features and special applications in numerous fields. In this study, a cost-effective and environmentally friendly biosynthesizing AgNPs method with no toxic chemicals involved from the fruiting body polysaccharide of Phlebopus portentosus (PPP) was established and optimized by single factor experiment and response surface methodology. The optimum synthesis conditions of polysaccharide-AgNPs (PPP-AgNPs) were identified to be the reaction time of 140 min, reaction temperature of 94 °C, and the PPP: AgNO 3 ratio of 1:11.5. Formation of PPP-AgNPs was indicated by visual detection of colour change from yellowish to yellowish brown. PPP-AgNPs were characterized by different methods and further evaluated for biological activities. That the Ultraviolet-visible (UV–Vis.) spectroscopy displayed a sharp absorption peak at 420 nm confirmed the formation of AgNPs. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis detected the presence of various functional groups. The lattice indices of (111), (200), (220), and (331), which indicated a faced-centered-cubic of the Ag crystal structure of PPP-AgNPs, was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the particles were found to be spherical through high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) determined the presence of silver in PPP-AgNPs. The percentage relative composition of elements was determined as silver (Ag) 82.5 % and oxygen (O) 17.5 % for PPP-AgNPs, and did not exhibit any nitrogen peaks. The specific surface area of PPP-AgNPs was calculated to be 0.5750 m2/g with an average pore size of 24.33 nm by BET analysis. The zeta potential was −4.32 mV, which confirmed the stability and an average particle size of 64.5 nm was calculated through dynamic light scattering (DLS). PPP-AgNPs exhibited significant free radical scavenging activity against DPPH with an IC 50 value of 0.1082 mg/mL. The MIC values of PPP-AgNPs for E. coli , S. aureus , C. albicans , C. glabrata , and C. parapsilosis are 0.05 mg/mL. The IC 50 value of the inhibition of PPP-AgNPs against α -glucosidase was 11.1 μg/mL, while the IC 50 values of PPP-AgNPs against HepG2 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were calculated to be 14.36 ± 0.43 μg/mL and 40.05 ± 2.71 μg/mL, respectively. According to the evaluation, it can be concluded that these green-synthesized and eco-friendly PPP-AgNPs are helpful to improve therapeutics because of significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties to provide new possibilities for clinic applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Facile microwave combustion synthesis of Cu 1-x Co x Fe 2 O 4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) NPs is reported. • Synthesis of CuFe 2 O 4 at all Co contents is noticed to be monophasic cubic. • The band gap has been enhanced from 2.30 to 2.50 eV on Co doping. • The M s values are found to be improved from 17.40 to 24.80 emu/g with Co doping. • An enhancement in photocatalytic activity of CuFe 2 O 4 NPs was observed with Co doping. Magnetic nanoparticles are found to have tremendous applications towards opto-magnetic-photocatalytic fields. Hence, herein authors make the efforts to prepare CuFe 2 O 4 (CFe) nanoparticles (NPs) with different Co contents Cu 1- x Co x Fe 2 O 4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) (CCFe NPs) through microwave combustion process for the first time. Mono phasic preparation of CFe NPs at all Co contents was confirmed via structural analysis. The oxidations states of the prepared NPs were carried out via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The morphological analysis and chemical compositions of the prepared samples were observed by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) respectively. Kubelka-Munk model was used to estimate energy gap and found between 2.30 and 2.50 eV. The electron and hole pairs recombination rate and presence of defects were studied via Photoluminescence spectra. The saturation magnetization, M S , remanant magnetization, M r and coercivity, H C were obtained to be improved from 17.40 to 24.80 emu/g, 5.18 to 8.73 emu/g & 331.89 to 1698.12 Oe, respectively. A detailed photocatalytic nature of the prepared CFe and CCFe NPs via hazardous RhB dye degrading beneath of irradiation of visible light (λ > 420 nm) was carried out. The possible mechanism of RhB dye degradation along with optimum Co doping in CFe and commanding active species has been discussed. These outcomes reveal that the Co doping play a key role in improving the optical band gap, magnetic and photocatalytic properties of CFe NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of nanocomposites formed by doping of graphene oxide with a metal and polymer is presented in this paper. The graphene oxide contains oxygenated functional groups, like epoxy, hydroxyl and carboxyl, as shown by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies. The existence of these functional groups on the surface of graphene oxide disperses the polymer chain and leads to a good interaction with the metal. The characterization of the prepared nanocomposite was done by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the obtained nanocomposite comprises nano-shaped thin stacked flakes with a well-defined multilayered edge structure. It was also seen that the metal particles were uniformly dispersed on the graphene surface with an average particle size of 1–25 nm. The synthesized nanocomposites can be used for adsorption and degradation of dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An ecofriendly and sustainable approach for the synthesis of stable AuNPs. • Aqueous extracts of root and rhizome of Phragmites australis were evaluated. • The spherical shape was the dominant with size (5–20 nm). • Anticancer and antioxidant potentials of AuNPs were confirmed. • Promising application in photocatalytic degradation of MB and MO. In this research, we adopt an ecofriendly and sustainable approach to compare the potentiality and efficiency of Phragmites australis aqueous extracts of two different organs to fabricate gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The aqueous extracts of plant roots and rhizome were used as alternative reducing agents to conventional chemicals. Various Characterization techniques were used; UV–Vis spectroscopy, Zeta potential, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) equipped with elemental mapping in order to confirm the formation of zero-valent AuNPs, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Our results demonstrated that both extracts of Phragmites australis are good candidates for the green-synthesis of AuNPs. Zeta potential was used to confirm the stability of AuNPs. The cytotoxic capacities of both AuNPs samples were validated using MTT assay which proved the inhibition of the growth and proliferation of human lung cancer cells (A549 cell line). Antioxidant potentialities were >10%. The phytosynthesized AuNPs exhibited high capacity in removing methylene blue and methyl orange dyes within just one min. This research offers an alternative solution to manage the accumulated unwanted biomass of a widely distributed aquatic macrophyte in aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, mixed calcium magnesium oxide (CaMgO 2) nanoflakes were synthesized using an ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation method. The physicochemical, structural and functional properties and elemental composition of the nanoflakes had been characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–VIS spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, the photocatalytic actions of the nanoflakes were evaluated by the removal rates of methylene blue (MB) and p -nitrophenol (4-NP) under UV irradiation at room temperature. SEM-EDS studies revealed that the nanoflakes consisted of mixed oxide such as magnesium oxide (MgO) and calcium oxide (CaO) particles. The size of the nanoflakes was found to be in the range of 10–30 nm and the average size was 25 nm as confirmed by HR-TEM analysis. XRD revealed that the standard crystal size was calculated to be 25 nm. The synthesized nanoflakes had a strong photocatalytic activity for methylene blue (MB) and p -nitrophenol (4-NP) degradation in the presence of H 2 O 2 under UV light irradiation within 60 min and 30 min, respectively. Hence, the present study proposes that the CaMgO 2 nanoflakes can be employed for the removal of dyes from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For environmental reasons, the paints industry shifts from solvent-borne towards water-borne formulations. This change is challenging the business of aluminum pigments, as the hydrogen released by the reaction of aluminum with water degrades the optical properties, besides being a safety concern. In this work, industrial-grade aluminum pigments are encapsulated, by a well-known method, in a silica matrix by sol-gel process using isopropanol - a more suitable solvent for the industry. The effectiveness of the encapsulation process is proven by advanced physical methods (Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis, Selected Area Electron Diffraction, Fourier Transformed InfraRed Spectroscopy, Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis) and by industry-relevant tests (stability in water, hiding power, flop and granulometry). Moreover, advanced surface-applied physical methods (High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy combined with Selected Area Electron Diffraction and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy, and FT-IR microscopy) clearly show the homogeneity of the resulting pigments, a quality which is highly desirable for practical applications. The results demonstrate that stability comparable to that of pigments passivized by chromium-based inhibitors is easily achieved, for a variety of operating conditions. However, accomplishing a homogeneous silica layer of the right thickness is the determining factor for good optical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissimilar material (Al and steel) tubes have been successfully joined together using magnetic pulse welding technique by setting optimized parameters i.e., discharge voltage and standoff distance. The welded interface has revealed an irregular wavy morphology with melt pockets (max. width ∼20 μm) consisting of intermetallic compound embedded in elemental mixture. High resolution electron microscopy and compositional analysis through energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) have revealed the formation of 2–3 μm long rod-shaped Fe-Al intermetallic compound. Non-destructive ultrasonic C-scans of the sample welded at 15.5 kV discharge voltage and 1.25 mm air gap have indicated sound welds between the two materials depicting 80% joint integrity while considering the backwall reflection threshold at 50%. The corrosion behaviour at the weld interfaces has been investigated in aqueous solution of 3.5 wt. % NaCl using both potentiodynamic and immersion tests revealing the influence of the intermetallic compound layer on corrosion. [Display omitted] • Non-destructive ultrasonic C-Scan characterization of magnetic pulse welded Al-Steel tubes. • Weld interface consists of 10–20 μm thick melt pockets of Al-Fe intermetallic. • The IMC layer thickness at the interface is directly proportional to the heat input that accelerates the corrosion rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper indium disulfide (CuInS 2) single crystals are prepared by the chemical vapour transport technique and characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The XRD outcome reveals tetragonal lattice structure. The EDS result confirms that the sample is near stoichiometry, while the FESEM and HRTEM micrographs show multilayered opaque crystals. The lattice fringe arrangement reveals d -spacing of 0.32 nm, which matches the d -spacing of primary peak (112) of XRD. Electrical resistivity value decreases as temperature varies from 303 K to 423 K, confirming the crystal is semiconducting. The negative signs in the Hall coefficient (−8.49 × 105 cm3·C−1) and Seebeck coefficient (−148 μV·K−1) confirm n-type nature. The maximum figure of merit (zT) is predicted as 3.99 × 10−4 at 423 K. It suggests that CuInS 2 has the prospective to be used in thermoelectric power generation. [Display omitted] • CuInS 2 single crystals synthesised by the CVT technique. • Study of transport properties of the single crystals. • The crystals are n-type semiconductors. • The synthesized crystals showed good thermoelectric figure of merit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct vapour transport technique was used to grow novel quaternary In 0.15 Sn 0.85 (Se 0. 95 S 0. 05) 2 crystals. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) with mapping were used to examine the surface morphology and chemical composition of grown crystals. The structural characterisation of grown crystals was analysed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and Raman spectra. The grown crystals have a hexagonal crystalline structure, as confirmed by the structural characterisations. The direct optical bandgap of a grown crystal having 1.37 eV is obtained from absorption spectra. The current–voltage characteristics were studied within the temperature range of 108 K to 403 K. Also, the hall parameters have been obtained at room temperature. The thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were calculated from TGA, DTA, and DTG curves. The photodetector based on grown In 0.15 Sn 0.85 (Se 0. 95 S 0. 05) 2 quaternary crystal exhibits the outstanding self-powered photoresponse. The exhaustive photodetection properties of a photodetector based on a grown In 0.15 Sn 0.85 (Se 0. 95 S 0. 05) 2 crystal were examined as functions of various illumination intensities and wavelengths. Trap depth and photodetection parameters were also calculated. • The direct vapour transport technique was used to grow novel quaternary In 0.15 Sn 0.85 (Se 0.95 S 0.05) 2 crystals. • The grown crystals have a hexagonal crystalline structure, as confirmed by the structural characterisation. • The grown crystals are n-type semiconducting material and have direct optical bandgap of 1.37 eV obtained from hall effect analysis and absorption spectra, respectively. • Thermal degradation analysis has shown good thermal stability at high temperatures. The endothermic compound is showing nonspontaneous dissociation process. • The In 0.15 Sn 0.85 (Se 0.95 S 0.05) 2 quaternary crystal-based photodetector exhibits good self-powered photoresponse with a quick response time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ag/Cu2O composites were prepared by the solvothermal and photo-reduction method. Then, Ag/Cu2O nanoparticle-immobilized cotton fabric with a 3D structure (Ag/Cu2O/CF) was successfully prepared by a relatively mild method, which was easy to be recycled and reused in the treatment of dye wastewater. Their composition, structure and morphology were carefully investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Their photocatalytic activities were evaluated by measuring the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under the irradiation of visible light. The results showed that the photocatalytic activities of Cu2O were influenced by the preparation time and Ag/Cu2O enhanced the photocatalytic performance of the composite compared to pure Cu2O. More importantly, the Ag/Cu2O/CF also exhibited superior photocatalytic performance and excellent reusability. The species capture experiment and the electron spin resonance (ESR) study showed that ˙OH, h+ and ˙O2− all took part in the MO degradation. Furthermore, the photocatalytic mechanism of Ag/Cu2O/CF has been proposed based on the experimental results. Therefore, the present work provides some insight into degradation of organic pollutants and the as-prepared composite has great potential for use in practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetically isolable nanobiocomposites have significant impact as the modified new generation catalysts in recent days. This has persuaded us to design and synthesis of a novel Ag NPs decorated biguanidine-chitosan (Bigua-CS) dual biomolecular functionalized core-shell type magnetic nanocomposite (Ag/Bigua-CS@Fe 3 O 4). Bigua-CS could be introducing polysaccharide materials as potential coating agent to immobilizing and stabilizing metal nanoparticles. The material was characterized using several advanced techniques like fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), atomic mapping, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Towards the chemical applications of the material, we headed the multicomponent synthesis of diverse propargylamines by A3 coupling in water, which ended up with excellent yields. Due to strong paramagnetism, the catalyst was easily isolable and reused in 9 cycles without any leaching and considerable change in reactivity. In addition, the catalyst was engaged in biological assays like study of anti-oxidant properties by DPPH mediated free radical scavenging test using BHT as a reference molecule. Thereafter, on having a significant IC 50 value in radical scavenging assay, we extended the bio-application of the catalyst in anticancer study of adenocarcinoma cells of human lungs. The three different cancer cell lines, PC-14, LC-2/ad and HLC-1 were used in this regard. The best result was achieved in the case of PC-14 cell line with strong IC 50 values. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we report the synthesis of (Co,Mg,Mn,Ni,Zn)(Al,Co,Cr,Fe,Mn) 2 O 4 in a single-phase spinel structure (space group F d 3 ¯ m). The chemical homogeneity and purity of the sample were checked through X-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The analysis of the pre-edge peaks of the X-ray absorption spectra for all the transition metals clearly indicated the presence of a partial degree of inversion in the spinel structure. This material is characterized by a particularly large configurational entropy, regarding both the A and the B sites, leading to a total value equal to 3.3 in R unit. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bi 4 O 5 I 2 and AgI nanoparticles were anchored over g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets. • The ternary photocatalyst illustrated the highest activity in degradation of pollutants. • Activity was 58.4-folds greater than g-C 3 N 4 in RhB degradation under visible light. • A cascade mechanism was suggested to describe the enhanced photocatalytic activity. In this research, Bi 4 O 5 I 2 and AgI nanoparticles were anchored over g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets (denoted as NGCN/Bi 4 O 5 I 2 /AgI) to preparation highly impressive visible-light-driven samples. The synthesized nanocomposites were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDX), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), photocurrent density, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and photoluminescence (PL) analyses. Among the ternary photocatalysts, the NGCN/Bi 4 O 5 I 2 /AgI (20%) photocatalyst illustrated the highest photoactivity in degradation of rhodamine B (RhB), which was approximately 58.4, 15.2, and 12.8 times higher than the GCN, NGCN, and NGCN/Bi 4 O 5 I 2 (20%) samples, respectively. Furthermore, the O 2 − was discovered as the main species in the respective system by the quenching tests. Also, by studying the electrochemical properties, a cascade photocatalytic mechanism was suggested based on the energy bands to describe the enhanced charge carriers migration and separation, which caused impressive photocatalytic performances in degradations of four hazardous contaminants. This study highlights the rational anchoring of Bi 4 O 5 I 2 and AgI nanoparticles over NGCN to prepare highly efficient photocatalysts for wastewater remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of pathogens causing nosocomial infections have emerged, showing resistance towards commonly used antimicrobial agents. Nosocomial infections are rapidly emerging as a severe threat leading to high morbidity and mortality. In this study, we have introduced Vancomycin grafted polydopamine(pDA) coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to combat vancomycin‐resistant bacterial species Enterococci faecalis (E.faecalis). The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by High Resolution ‐Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR‐TEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Ultraviolet (UV) Visible spectroscopy and Attenuated Total Reflection‐Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR). The nanoparticles were 33 nm in size as revealed by HR‐TEM. Antimicrobial assays were conducted to investigate the antimicrobial activity of vancomycin‐pDA@AgNPs against E. faecalis by a zone of inhibition method. The vancomycin‐pDA@AgNPs exhibited good bactericidal activity against vancomycin‐resistant E. faecalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The room temperature polar vapor sensing behavior of a graphene-TiS3 heterojunction material and TiS3 nanoribbons is described. The nanoribbons were synthesized via chemical vapor transport (CVT) and their structure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies. The gas sensing performance was assessed by following the changes in their resistivities. Sensing devices were fabricated with gold contacts and with lithographically patterned graphene (Gr) electrodes in a heterojunction Gr-TiS3-Gr. The gold contacted TiS3 device has a rather linear I-V behavior while the Gr-TiS3-Gr heterojunction forms a contact with a higher Schottky barrier (250 meV). The I-V responses of the sensors were recorded at room temperature at a relative humidity of 55% and for different ethanol vapor concentrations (varying from 2 to 20 ppm). The plots indicate an increase in the resistance of Gr-TiS3-Gr due to adsorption of water and ethanol with a relatively high sensing response (~495% at 2 ppm). The results reveal that stable responses to 2 ppm concentrations of ethanol are achieved at room temperature. The response and recovery times are around 8 s and 72 s, respectively. Weaker responses are obtained for methanol and acetone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present study, we have shown dopamine acts as very good agent in killing cancer cells with very high rate. We have used silica coated iron oxide magnetic particles as dopamine drug delivery agent. We have synthesized iron oxide (Fe3O4) magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), and coated it with silicon dioxide (SiO2), then loaded it with dopamine (DA) which has been used here as anticancer drug. Here a significant improvement was found in case of drug release under acidic pH than normal blood pH. The MNPs are characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive Analysis of X‐rays (EDAX), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) to confirm its structural, morphological and magnetic properties. Particles after characterization were involved in investigation of DA drug release by altering pH for better treatment of cancer. The results are very important and promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and easy synthesis of pure neodymium hexaboride, NdB 6 nanocrystals was developed, without applying heat treatments at high temperatures. The mechanochemical synthesis of NdB 6 powders was performed at room temperature inside a planetary ball mill. The Nd, B 2 O 3 and Mg starting blends were mixed, and subsequently mechanically alloyed to constitute NdB 6 -MgO as final products. The effect of milling duration on the NdB 6 formation mechanism and metallothermic reduction was investigated. Following mechanochemical synthesis, MgO was removed from the system by leaching the powders with CH 3 COOH solution. The formation of NdB 6 phase was monitored by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Microstructure and morphology of the synthesized nanocrystals were characterised by using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) techniques. Pure NdB 6 nanocrystals with a crystallite size of 18.2 ± 2.0 nm were obtained after 15 h of milling. Microscopic investigations revealed the irregular shape and morphology of NdB 6 nanocrystal structures. Rietveld refinements confirm the cubic structure (space group Pm-3m) with a lattice constant of 4.1254 (2) Å and 92 ± 8 nm particle size of NdB 6 phase. The Raman active phonons of Pm-3m symmetry were characterised by Raman spectroscopy. • Pure NdB6 nanocrystals synthesis by mechanochemical alloying. • New insight into the controlling of impurity phases during synthesis process. • The pure NdB6 nanocrystals with 18.24 nm crystallite size. • Lattice strain about 0.67% after 15 h of ball milling. • Detailed analysis of phase structures by Rietveld refinements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of low-cost, durable and efficient photocatalyst for overall photoelectrochemical water splitting is in demand to overcome the renewable energy crises. Herein, we demonstrate the efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting by cobalt (Co) incorporated zinc oxide (Zn 1-x Co x O) thin films deposited via aerosol assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) technique. The as-deposited Co incorporated ZnO thin films were characterised by powdered X-ray diffraction (pXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and ultra violet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). These films with different concentration of cobalt were investigated for water splitting applications and the best results were achieved for the films with 15% Co incorporation. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polyaniline and Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 /polyaniline have been successfully synthesized • Polyaniline and Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 /polyaniline showed substantial protection performances for C-steel in HCl • The incorporation of Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 nanoparticles with polyaniline improve its protection ability • SEM/EDX emphasizes film formation of Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 /polyaniline nanocomposite on the steel surface after immersion The current approach discussed a synthesis and characterization of polyaniline (PANI) and two modified loading of 5, 10% Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 / PANI, in which Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) were modified with PANI forming nanocomposites. The composite formation and structure were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis absorption spectra (UV–vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. The prepared polymer (PANI) and its nanocomposites (Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 /PANI) were examined as a corrosion protective layer for carbon steel in 2.0 N HCl at different temperature (30–60 °C) by different electrochemical methods including potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. PANI inhibited the corrosion of carbon steel, yielding maximum protection capacity of 89%, which were further increased to 96% by the modification with Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 nanocomposites. The SEM/EDX investigations confirmed the presence of Tl 2 O 3 -SiO 2 / PANI nanocomposites film covering the metal surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of the clean synthesis of efficient bimetallic Pt-Pd alloy nanoparticles supported reduced graphene oxide (RGO) catalyst (RGO/Pt-Pd) through a facile, rapid, surfactant–free and novel one-pot process of chemical reduction-assisted hydrothermal reaction using formic acid as reducing agent have been introduced. The structural, elemental composition analysis and surface morphology of the as-prepared catalysts were extensively characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), respectively. The electrochemical properties, catalytic activity and long-term stability performance of the RGO/Pt-Pd nanocomposite catalyst were employed by cyclic voltammogram and chronoamperometry. Furthermore, owing to the synergetic effects of Pt and Pd nanoparticles, the unique structure of Pt-Pd alloy nanoparticles and enhanced electron transfer by RGO, the as-synthesized RGO/Pt-Pd nanocomposite catalyst has demonstrated the enlarged electrochemical surface area (ECSA) (ECSA = 0.91 cm2), remarkably higher electro-catalytic activity (I f = 59.6 mA/cm2) and enhanced stability as compared to RGO/Pt (I f = 23.32 mA/cm2, ECSA = 0.18 cm2) and RGO/Pd (I f = 8.65 mA/cm2, ECSA = 0.11 cm2) nanocomposite catalysts toward methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). This superior catalytic activity of the as-prepared RGO/Pt-Pd nanocomposite catalyst with facile and simple preparation approach is promising a great opportunity for the development of direct methanol fuel cell. • RGO/Pt-Pd was produced by novel one-pot hydrothermal-assisted chemical reduction. • This one-pot hydrothermal-assisted chemical reduction method is effective, rapid and simple. • Formic acid was used as soft and non-metal reductant in the reaction process, without any surfactant or template. • Uniform Pt-Pd alloy nanoparticles supported on RGO formation were confirmed by HRTEM, XRD and XPS. • The as-synthesized nanocomposites exhibit superior catalytic activity and enhanced stability for methanol oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The AlSiN coatings were deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering. • Direct evidence of nanocomposite type arrangement in AlSiN ternary coatings. • Structural and mechanical property highly dependent on the nitrogen content. • The mechanical properties of AlSiN coating is optimum at 20:6 Ar:N 2 ratio. • Hardness of 20:6 Ar:N 2 ratio coating is maximum i.e. 31 GPa. In this work AlSiN ternary coatings were deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering in Ar/N 2 reactive atmosphere. AlSi alloy target of composition 86:14 wt% has been used to deposit the coatings on float glass substrate by varying the Ar:N 2 ratio i.e., 20:4, 20:6, 20:8, 20:13 and 20:15. The effect of different Ar:N 2 ratio on microstructure, mechanical and optical property were studied using x-ray diffraction (XRD), stylus profilometry, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), UV–visible spectrometry and manoindentation. The XRD measurements show the formation h-AlN phase for coating deposited for 20:6 only and confirm the crystalline nature of the coating whereas at higher and lower Ar: N 2 ratio, the measurements show the amorphous nature of the coatings. 20:6 deposited coating developed a wurtzite-AlN nanocrystalline structure. The thickness of the coatings decreased with respect to the increasing Ar: N 2 ratio. The FESEM shows uneven and dense microstructure of the coatings. HRTEM study confirms the amorphous nature of 20:4 and 20:13 Ar: N 2 ratio, and the polycrystalline nature of 20:6 coating. The elemental compositions were confirmed by EDS. The optical transparency of the coating was more than 95% for all the coatings in the visible range. The roughness of the samples was also measured in scanning probe microscopy imaging that showed an average roughness value Ra of ∼3 nm. The maximum hardness of 31 GPa was observed for the coating prepared with an Ar: N 2 ratio of 20:6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Co doped Ceria, Ce 1-x Co x O 2 (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 mol %) were synthesized by combustion method at 500 °C. • Structure, morphology and spectroscopic studies of the nanopowders were studied. • Room temperature ferromagnetism was observed in this material. In this investigation, cobalt doped ceria nanopowders, Ce 1-x Co x O 2 (x = 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3mol.%) were synthesized by citrate–nitrate auto-combustion method at 500 °C in an open furnace. The prominent X-ray diffraction pattern peaks corresponding to the crystallographic planes (1 1 1), (2 0 0), (2 2 0), (3 1 1), (2 2 2), (4 0 0) and the cell parameters confirm the cubic fluorite crystal structure of the ceria with the help of powder diffraction standard (JCPDS card No.00-034-0394). The UV–Visible absorption due to the charge transfer of O2− → Ce2+ and other functional groups were studied by UV–Visible and FT-IR spectroscopic analyses. The visible light emission (wavelength of 420 nm and 520 nm are corresponding to the defect levels of the O 2p and Ce 4f bands) due to oxygen and other vacancies were confirmed by photoluminescence spectroscopy. Energy band gap (E g) of the Ce 0.9 Co 0.1 O 2 , Ce 0.8 Co 0.2 O 2 and Ce 0.7 Co 0.3 O 2 was found to be 1.423 eV, 1.375 eV and 1.332 eV, respectively. The porosity, agglomeration, particles size, shape and distribution of the synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirms the presence of constituent elements of Ce 1-x Co x O 2 such as Ce, Co, and O. The existence of weak ferromagnetism and its variation due to cobalt concentration were studied by vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Graphene oxide (GO) based composites functionalized with nanoparticles are emerging as potential candidates for multifunctional devices. As the synthesis route can strongly influence the way in which the nanoparticles are anchored to GO and the resulting properties, different routes have been employed and evaluated in this work for the preparation of composites formed by GO and undoped or Li doped SnO 2 nanoparticles. Promotion of synergetic effects, as well as changes in the structural and luminescent properties of the composites have been also analyzed. In comparison with GO, composite samples synthesized in this work involve enhanced luminescence while retaining nearly white emission, which could lead to wider applicability of GO based composites in free standing and emitting and sensing devices. Aspects, such as GO reduction, stabilization of different Sn-based oxides, variation in the concentration of oxygen related functional groups, changes in the sp2 domain sizes, incorporation of lithium and enhancement of the luminescence, have been analyzed in this work by means of x-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) characterizations. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Widening applications by exploiting the ability to obtain luminescence from these GO based composites. • Enhancement of the luminescence by introducing tin oxide nanoparticles and lithium within the synthesis of the composites. • Several routes for composite fabrication have been investigated in a systematic way. • Near white light emission have been obtained at room temperature, in contrast with other graphene luminescence results. • Discussion taking into account the luminescence relation with the structural properties derived from each synthesis method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• H 2 evolution and selective hydrogenation centers in a ternary CuZnCo-3 catalyst. • The exquisite cooperation of each component contributes to excellent activity. • 99% DMF yield is achieved from in situ hydrogenation of 5-HMF with ethanol. • A superior recyclability without losing any activity during 6 cycles experiment. Catalytic in situ hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) to 2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF) has received a great interest in recent years. However, the issue of the consumption of expensive hydrogen donors, such as secondary alcohols, limits its applications. In this work, a ternary CuZnCoO x catalyst, exhibiting a 99% yield of DMF from in situ hydrogenation of 5-HMF with ethanol as economical hydrogen donor, is developed. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS-mapping), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and temperature programmed reduction (TPR) reveal the synergy effect of each components. Reaction mechanism studies unravel the CoO x results in promoting in situ H 2 production from ethanol, the zinc oxide accelerates the aldehyde group (CHO) hydrogenation to hydroxymethyl group (CH 2 OH) and the formation of Cu-Co alloy significantly facilitate the hydrogenation of 5-HMF. Additionally, this ternary CuZnCoO x catalyst exhibits superior recyclability without losing any activity during 6 cycles experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]