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Maintaining the stability of environmental organisms is crucial for their survival, yet it face significant challenges due to climate change, particularly ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can cause severe damage to DNA, and lead to morphological changes, deformities, and even death. This damage can be mitigated through the use of protective creams manufactured using nanotechnology. In this work, we investigate the effects of UV‐C radiation on earthworms, with a focus on their skin damage response. We employed histological examination and electron microscopy to study these effects in detail. Our findings reveal that earthworms display extreme sensitivity when exposed to UV‐C light. As an initial defensive response, they produce a subterranean fluid post‐autopsy. However, increased doses of UV‐C lead to tissue inflammation and subsequent death. Notably, when TiO2 nanoparticles were applied before UV‐C exposure, they effectively protected the worms from UV‐induced damage. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of UV radiation on earthworms and highlights the potential of nanotechnology in offering protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing need for lightweight, high strength and cost-effective materials for automotive and aerospace industries worked as the impetus for this investigation. E-glass fibers are layered with 3K-carbon fibers in proportions of 7:6 & 6:7 for fabricating hybrid fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. First stage of the study involves the identification of the optimized fiber stacking pattern. Later, nanocomposites were made for further enhancement of tensile properties by infusing titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles to hybrid FRP composite ‘C2G3C3G3C2’ with optimized stacking pattern. The TiO2 nanoparticles are equally disseminated in the epoxy resin using ultrasonication with five different wt. % of 0, 1.25, 2.5, 3.75, and 5. The peak load, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), tensile modulus, and % elongation at break were examined as per ASTM D3039 tensile testing. The UTS of optimized hybrid FRP composite, carbon non-hybrid FRP composite, and nanocomposite (at 2.5 wt. % TiO2 nanoparticles) were 424.98 MPa, 429.0 MPa, and 478.51 MPa, respectively. Further, the cost of optimized hybrid FRP composite and nanocomposite (at 2.5 wt. % of TiO2 nanoparticles) is approximately 36.93% and 21.51% less than most expensive carbon non-hybrid FRP composite. The morphological analysis revealed that TiO2 added composites up to 2.5 wt. % exhibit fewer defects, indicating a better interaction between the matrix and the fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report demonstrates the development of carbon fibers (CFs) decorated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) as an efficient photocatalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) as a model dye. Carbon fibers were produced by carbonization of polyacrylonitrile fibers, previously produced by centrifugal spinning. Subsequently, the CFs were decorated with TiO2 NPs (CFs@TiO2) by tailored soaking protocol using aqueous TiCl4 solution with different concentrations (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 M). SEM analyses revealed that soaking in TiCl4 produced a smooth, conformal, continuous TiO2 nanoparticulate coating with thickness increasing from 40.4 ± 21.2 to 257.9 ± 63.9 nm with increasing TiCl4 concentration. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the anatase nature of TiO2. Photocatalytic decomposition rates of MB were assessed under UV light illumination for all CFs@TiO2 samples, and it was revealed that the lowest amount of TiO2 NP on C yielded the highest rates. The synergistic interaction between CFs and TiO2 NPs with a uniform morphology and a well-crystalline anatase structure, present in an optimal amount of fiber bodies, is the key reason for the remarkable photocatalytic performance. This work shows that C fibers decorated with an optimal amount of TiO2 NPs have a great potential as an effective photocatalytic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the synthesis of TiO2‐graphene nanocomposites with varying mass ratios of graphene (2.5, 5, 10, 20 wt. %) using a facile and cost‐effective hydrothermal approach. By integrating TiO2 nanoparticles with graphene, a nanomaterial characterized by a two‐dimensional structure, unique electrical conductivity and high specific surface area, the resulting hybrid material shows promise for application in supercapacitors. The nanocomposite specimens were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, supercapacitive properties were investigated using a three‐electrode setup by cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Notably, the TiO2‐20 wt. % rGO nanocomposite exhibited the highest specific capacitance of 624 F/g at 2 A/g, showcasing superior electrochemical performance. This specimen indicated a high rate capability and cyclic stability (93 % retention after 2000 cycles). Its remarkable energy density and power density of this sample designate it as a strong contender for practical supercapacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel sensor for the detection of levodopa (LD) utilizing a glassy carbon electrode modified with a TiO2/MWCNT nanocomposite. Structural analysis confirmed the suitability of the nanocomposite for sensor fabrication, revealing enhancements in effective surface area and sensitivity. Characterization studies employing SEM, EDX, and FT-IR analyses provided insights into the composition and morphology of the modified electrode. The sensor exhibited exceptional performance metrics, including a wide linear detection range (19.6–545 µM), low detection limit (2.51 µM), high repeatability (78.1%), and remarkable average recovery rates in real samples (99.86%). Minimal interference from interfering species further demonstrated its practical utility. Moreover, the sensor's direct applicability in diverse sample matrices, without the need for sample separation, highlighted its versatility and convenience. Comparative analysis revealed the sensor's performance to be comparable to established methods, offering a cost-effective and streamlined approach to LD measurement. Overall, the modified glassy carbon electrode with TiO2/MWCNT nanocomposite presents a clear, suitable, and stable electrocatalytic response, promising significant advancements in biosensing technology for LD detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional coatings based on Sn-Ni materials with and without titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) incorporation were prepared using the electrochemical deposition technique at 70 °C. TiO2NPs were dispersed in the electrolyte bath, and their influence on the surface texture, crystalline phase, and properties was investigated. Various techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) were used to characterize the prepared coatings. The formation mechanism of the deposited coatings has been demonstrated to be consistent with the electrochemical behavior of instantaneous growth, and the three-dimensional growth is controlled by diffusion phenomena. The anticorrosion effectiveness of the coatings was assessed using potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in an artificial sweat medium, while the bactericidal activity of the composite coatings (the ability to induce cell death) was evaluated in accordance with the ISO 27447:2019 test. The influence of TiO2NPs at a low concentration of 1 g/L on the composition, structure, and properties of the deposited coatings was demonstrated. Particular attention was paid to the relationship between the anticorrosive and bactericidal properties of the coatings and their structure composition and wetting properties. The synergistic effect of chemical composition and surface-wetting properties has been demonstrated to enhance the anticorrosive and bactericidal properties of the prepared coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to synthesize and characterize nanocomposite films of chitosan and titanium dioxide in terms of molecular structure, thermal and optical properties for use in food packaging and optoelectronic applications. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the interaction between the TiO2-NPs and chitosan and the analysis confirmed that TiO2-NPs interacted with chitosan and demonstrated good compatibility. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis revealed that increasing the concentration of TiO2-NPs improved the thermal stability of the nanocomposites. The linear optical properties in the UV-Vis range (200-800 nm) were measured spectrophotometrically. Below 400 nm, the transmittance spectra of the nanocomposites show decreased degrees of transparency, indicating their capacity to entirely block UV-light transmission. Tauc's model was used to identify the types of electronic transitions in the samples. The single-oscillator model was utilized to investigate the dispersion energy and parameters. Nonlinear optical properties were also investigated. UV-Vis in the region (360-410 nm), the analysis revealed that increasing the concentration of TiO2-NPs from 0 to 12 wt% reduced the absorption edge from 2.716 to 2.043 eV, decreased the direct (3.282 to 2.798 eV) and indirect (2.417 to 1.581 eV) energy band gaps, increased the Urbach energy from 0.692 to 1.295 eV, decreased the dispersion energy from 11.324 to 5.621 eV, decreased the single oscillator energy from 6.308 to 5.393 eV, and improved the other linear and nonlinear parameters. The findings support the usage of CS/TiO2 nanocomposite films in the packaging industry and a variety of optical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the incorporation of CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles into polypropylene or cotton fabrics to develop reusable personal protective equipment. Different preparation methods are applied to anchor the nanoparticles and avoid leaching. The composition and preparation of fabrics are verified by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Optical properties are assessed by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and photoluminescence. The results show that for a low ratio of CuO to TiO2, the optical properties improve, reducing bandgap energy and the electron-hole pair recombination rate. Photodegradation of methylene blue increases by 22.8% in polypropylene fabrics and up to 350% in cotton fabrics. In conclusion, photoactivity in polypropylene fabrics is 23.7 times higher than in cotton fabrics, since the preparation method controls the loading of active species [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is studied how the treatment of a metal lithium surface with a 1 M LiN(CF3SO2)2 solution in the 1,3-dioxolane/1,2-dimethoxyethane (2 : 1) mixture affects the resistance of the interphases formed by lithium with the polymer and nanocomposite electrolytes based on the 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ionic liquid. The liquid-phase therapy is shown to reduce the resistance at the Li/electrolyte interphase by a factor of 2.5 at room temperature and extend the working temperature range to –30°C. The introduction of TiO2 nanoparticles into the polymer electrolyte, along with the liquid-phase therapy of both the cathode and the Li-anode, provides a high and stable discharge capacity of the Li//LiFePO4 battery for 100 charge–discharge cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the effect of varying titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles on the dielectric, thermal, and corrosion characteristics of PI-based composites prepared by spark plasma sintering was investigated. The results obtained revealed that the TiO2 nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed within the PI matrix. Addition of TiO2 into the neat PI markedly reduced its dielectric constant and electrical conductivity by 72.7% and 82.3%, respectively, as well as enhancing its breakdown strength by 16.7% at 8 wt% TiO2 loading. The nanocomposites depict better thermal stability and heat-resistance index characteristics when compared to the PI. Additionally, the produced nanocomposites exhibit improved corrosion resistance than that of the neat PI. The remarkable improvement in the dielectric, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance of the nanocomposites is achieved by better dispersion of the TiO2 particles in the polymer matrix. The enhancement in properties suggests TiO2/PI-based nanocomposites potential for a variety of applications in electrical insulation, thermal management, and harsh environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents a breakthrough of a balanced charge separation for heterojunction CuWO4-TiO2 cocatalyst to efficiently enhance visible light photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIP). A solvothermal-synthesized nanopyramid-like CuWO4 semiconductor was assembled before sol–gel treatment with TiO2 precursors to generate CuWO4-TiO2 nanocomposites. The optical, structural, and morphological properties of CuWO4-TiO2 were elucidated using UV–Vis DRS, XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and TEM/SEM techniques. The UV–Vis DRS spectroscopy of as-synthesized CuWO4-TiO2 cocatalyst demonstrated enhanced visible light absorbance. The XRD patterns of CuWO4-TiO2 revealed a triclinic phase nanocrystal. The O-Ti–O functionality was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The photoactive bands corresponding to anatase redshift were observed from Raman spectroscopy of CuWO4-TiO2 nanocomposite. The PL studies attributed this redshift to the elevated extra energy bands that aid electron/hole pair charge separation in a co-catalyst heterojunction CuWO4-TiO2 nanocomposite afforded by embedding CuWO4-MOF within TiO2 crystalline. The TEM showed that un-sintered CuWO4.MOF mimicked a pyramidal shape and converted to nanoflakes upon sintering, while TiO2 and CuWO4-TiO2 retained a tetragonal shape. The photocatalytic activity of CuWO4-TiO2 cocatalyst was studied using CIP, as a model pollutant. The innovative design of 5CuWO4-TiO2 charge separation nanocomposite completely degraded 10 mg L−1 CIP solution at pH = 6.31 (natural pH) and 9 under 120 min of sunlight irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, manganese-doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Mn–TiO2), strontium-doped titanium dioxide (Sr–TiO2), and co-doped with both manganese and strontium (Mn–Sr–TiO2) were synthesized using the sol–gel method. The resulting powders underwent comprehensive characterization employing techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV–DRS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR). X-ray diffraction pattern analysis confirmed the presence of the anatase phase in the catalyst. According to the Scherrer equation, the crystallite size was estimated to be 12 nm for pure TiO2 and 10 nm for co-doped TiO2. Importantly, co-doping induced a reduction in the band gap energy, decreasing from 3.3 to 3.05 eV. The photocatalytic performance of the synthesized materials was evaluated for the degradation of methylene blue (MB), revealing that co-doping facilitated the degradation of 95% of the target compound (MB) within 2 h. The synergistic interaction of manganese and strontium ions played a crucial role in reducing the band gap of TiO2 and delaying the recombination of photo-generated electrons and holes. This synergistic interplay between manganese and strontium enhanced photocatalysis, reducing the total organic carbon (TOC) content from 35.6 to 5.5 mg/l after 2 h of UV light exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a widespread disease of various types worldwide that affects many people. Today, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have substantial therapeutic applications. We investigated how harmful titanium dioxide is to breast cancer cells. MCF-7 cancer cells and HFF cell lines were cultured. The survival of cells exposed to different amounts of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was tested. The examined concentrations were 25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/ml. The survival rate was measured after 48 and 72 hours and IC50 was determined. We found that the highest toxicity occured while MCF-7 and HFF cells were exposed to 200 μg/ml of titanium dioxide. Apoptosis in MCF-7 and HFF cells emerged as shown with Annexin V-PI staining and flow cytometry. Under a microscope, it was found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles could be harmful in specific amounts. At a dose of 200 μg/ml, after 48 and 72 hours of treatment, MCF-7 and HFF cells were affected. The mitochondrial membrane broke when breast cells were exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The matrix leaked into the cytoplasm, and the rough endoplasmic reticulum swelled. These observations occurred after 72 hours of treatment with a concentration of 200 µg/ml. Considering the acquired effects, titanium dioxide nanoparticles may be advocated as potential medicinal candidates for pharmaceutical purposes even though further research is required.

In response to growing environmental concerns about the adverse effects of conventional lubricants, there has been a surge in the demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Biodegradable lubricants, crafted from renewable sources, represent a sustainable solution to address these environmental apprehensions. This research describes the tribological, rheological properties and biodegradability of rapeseed oil with 0.25 to 1.25 weight percent TiO2 nanoparticles as additives. The lubricant samples were prepared using a magnetic stirrer and an ultrasonic device. Friction and wear properties such as coefficient of friction and wear scar diameter were determined using a four-ball tester. In comparison with SAE20W40, samples 1 (0.25 weight percentage of TiO2) and sample 2 (0.5 weight percentage of TiO2) shown remarkably improved tribological performance, with 73.32% and 66.76% decreases in coefficient of friction (COF), respectively. Shear stress, shear rate and dynamic viscosity are analyzed using a rheometer. The acquired results are juxtaposed with both pure canola oil and various mineral oils for comparison. The nano-lubricant synthesized in this study emerges as a viable alternative to SAE10, DXT3 (steering fluid), and SAE20W50 grade oils, demonstrating lower friction and a reduced wear scar diameter. Biodegradability tests were performed on all generated samples using the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) apparatus, and all samples exhibited a BOD to Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) ratio better than 0.5, indicating biocompatibility. The findings of the research investigation indicate that the combination of canola oil with TiO2 blends holds significant promise as an alternative to conventional synthetic lubricant oils.

This study investigated the effects of TiO2 nanoparticles (TNPs) on the hydration and microstructure of cement. The primary experimental variable was the TNP content, which ranged from 0 to 10 wt% of the cement. Cement paste and mortar specimens incorporating TNPs were prepared to assess the hydration characteristics, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the cement composites. Hydration characteristics were evaluated using heat of hydration, setting time, and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. The microstructure was assessed through mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results indicated that TNPs accelerated the hydration of cement and modified the matrix microstructure, decreasing porosity and improving early-age strength. However, their tendency to agglomerate makes proper dispersion crucial for their effective application in construction materials. Therefore, when developing new building materials incorporating TNPs, it is essential to consider the properties of the nanoparticles and their physical and chemical effects on cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, titania nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were combined in situ to obtain a single TiO2–Ag nanoplatform with synergistic antibacterial effects and perspectives in biological applications. To improve colloidal stability in the aqueous environment, the bifunctional (3-mercaptopropyl)-trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and sodium 3-mercapto-1-propanesulfonate (3MPS) were used as stabilizing agents for covalent binding to TiO2NP (formation of Ti–O–Si chemical bonds) and AgNP surfaces (through the Ag–S bond), respectively. Synthesis conditions were optimized by tuning the Ag content decorating the TiO2NPs, and the colloidal stability, size, morphology, and chemical composition were studied in both solution and solid-state by UV–visible, Fourier-transform infrared, 1H NMR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, dynamic light scattering, and ζ-potential. The antibacterial activities of these nanohybrids were investigated on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and the results showed an enhanced antibacterial effect arising from the combination of TiO2NPs and AgNPs in the nanohybrid with the lower Ag content (more than 60% in the case of S. aureus exposed to TiO2–Ag), compared to the pristine TiO2NPs and control groups. Electron paramagnetic resonance with spin trapping detected the presence of hydroxyl radicals both in the nanohybrids and in the pristine TiO2NPs, supporting the hypothesis that the antibacterial effect is related to the presence of reactive oxygen species. The results of this research contribute to the synthesis of new potent antimicrobial nanohybrids for applications in more complex biological media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been growing interest in using polymer nanocomposite membranes as a more advanced method for removing pollutants from water and treating wastewater for various purposes. In this study, thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes of polycarbonate/polyvinyl alcohol–titanium dioxide thin‐film (PC/PVA–TiO2) were fabricated by dip‐coating a PC substrate in a PVA/TiO2 solution. Various methods, including attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and water contact angle were utilized to assess the structural characteristics of the produced membranes. The PC/PVA thin‐film composite (TFC) and PC/PVA–TiO2 TFN membranes were then examined in a submerged membrane system to evaluate their effectiveness in filtering humic acid (HA) under various vacuum transmembrane pressure (0.3 and 0.6 bar) condition. The FTIR‐ATR results confirmed the formation of the active layer of PVA/TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). It was observed that adding 1 wt.% of TiO2 NPs to the active layer of PVA/TiO2 significantly enhanced the water contact angle from 77.5° for PC support to 55.3° for PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.1) TFN membranes. Furthermore, the FE‐SEM results confirmed the formation of an active layer of PVA/TiO2 with a thickness of 237.87 nm. The pure water flux increased from 101.64 L/m2h for the PC/PVA TFC membrane to 144.02 L/m2h and 199.09 L/m2h for the PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.05) and PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.1) TFN membranes, respectively. Also, the results revealed that at lower transmembrane pressure, all membranes showed higher value in HA removal as compared to when higher transmembrane pressure was used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the hydrolysis of TiCl4 was utilized to synthesize titanium dioxide clusters (TiO2 NCs) at a sub-nanometer scale. Precise control over the synthesis process resulted in the production of stable particles with well-defined size distributions. These TiO2 NCs were specifically developed to facilitate the conversion of SOx into organo-sulfonic acid derivatives under visible light irradiation. Various characterization techniques such as TEM, EDX, XRD, UV–Vis-DRS, Raman, and FTIR were employed to analyze the formed photocatalysts, including TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and NCs. The efficiency of catalytic SOx removal depended significantly on the particle size and surface area of the nanocatalysts, as well as the presence of thymol or naphthol (1,2). These materials (1,2) proved to be highly effective in removing SOx from flue gas under ambient conditions, specifically at room temperature. The conversion of thymol or naphthol involved a combination of adsorption and catalytic oxidation–reduction reactions. This photocatalytic approach for SOx conversion offers several advantages, including high performance, elimination of the need for high temperature or pressure, and rapid catalytic removal within a short reaction time of 10 min. TiO2 NCs demonstrate high efficiency in SOx removal, offering a promising solution for pollution control. Unlike some other methods, TiO2 nanoparticles can be potentially regenerated and reused, making them a more sustainable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles, considered building blocks of nanotechnology, are a topic of widespread research due to their extraordinary properties that are useful in diverse sectors. Among all nanoparticle types, TiO2 (anatase) has drawn the most attention, primarily because of its superhydrophilic properties and effective antibacterial actions. Its applications include self-cleaning of solid surfaces, treatment of water and air, production of clean energy, treatment of microbial infections, pesticide management, etc. making TiO2 a focal point of research in materials science. However, the lack of photosensitivity to visible light (>390 nm) reduces the scope for utilising TiO2 in photocatalytic processes. Therefore, most studies on TiO2 nanoparticles have focused on broadening their spectral sensitivity through band gap manipulation for effective photocatalysis under visible light. Researchers have doped/co-doped metals and non-metals, such as N, C, F, S, B, Cu, Fe, V, Pt, etc. to nano-TiO2 to shorten its band gap with varying degrees of success. This review paper mainly focuses on the mechanism and effectivity of N and Fe co-doped TiO2 nanoparticles. The progress of scientific research on TiO2 photocatalysis has introduced an array of new applications using TiO2 nanoparticles, and these applications have also been discussed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a typical endocrine disrupter, bisphenol A (BPA) in the environment could damage the reproductive and endocrine system of humans and mammals. Hence, the precise removal of BPA from the environment becomes increasingly urgent. In this work, we employ Pickering emulsion polymerization to prepare the molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) microspheres containing specific binding sites for the precise recognition of BPA through the non-covalent molecular imprinting strategy. In the process of polymerization, TiO2 nanoparticles are used as the sole emulsifier to build the Pickering oil/water emulsion system followed by the radical polymerization. The template molecules of BPA could be eluted from the polymer microspheres by continuous Soxhlet extraction. The obtained MIP microspheres were characterized with the help of optical microscope and field emission scanning electron microscope, respectively. The MIP microspheres present regularly spherical structures with a relative broad size distribution. The chemical structure and thermal stability of MIP and non-imprinted polymer (NIPs) microspheres also were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry, respectively. The formation of specific imprinted sites on the MIPs was validated through a batch of rebinding experiments, including the binding kinetics, binding isotherm and selective experiment. Moreover, the obtained MIP microspheres could be regenerated and recycled at least five cycles without significant loss of binding capacity. The MIP microspheres would have broad application prospects in the environmental and analytical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents the development of niobium (Nb)‐doped titania (TiO2)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites (NTR NCs) for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The novelty lies in two aspects: introducing Nb (V) ions into TiO2/rGO nanocomposites via an in‐situ sol‐gel method with doping concentrations from 1.0 to 3.0 mol %, and fabricating photoanodes using the doctor blade technique, sensitized with a Co2+/Co3+‐based PEO‐PEG polymer gel electrolyte‐assisted D‐π‐A carbazole metal‐free (SK3) dye. Detailed investigations into the optoelectrical, structural, and morphological properties were conducted using various spectral and analytical tools. Notably, DSSCs based on Nb‐doped TiO2/rGO nanocomposites with 2.0 mol % Nb (NTR‐2) achieved a remarkable solar efficiency (η) of 5.48 % under AM 1.5 solar simulation, significantly outperforming devices based on bare TiO2 nanoparticles and undoped TiO2/rGO NCs by factors of 4.15 and 2.97, respectively. The substantial enhancement in photovoltaic performance is attributed to superior charge transfer properties and higher carrier density, as revealed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Mott‐Schottky (M–S) analysis. Nb‐doping results in an energetic surface nature, improved optical absorption, and reduced charge transfer resistance, collectively boosting the overall efficiency of DSSCs. This work underscores the potential of Nb‐doped TiO2/rGO NCs as effective photoanode materials in enhancing DSSC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various microorganisms are present in natural waters, and understanding their impact on the photocatalytic behavior of photocatalysts is crucial, especially in large-scale hydrogen production. In line with this, we conducted a systematic investigation into the influence of Escherichia coli on the photocatalytic performance of TiO 2 nanoparticles for H 2 evolution. The findings revealed a significant reduction in the photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 nanoparticles in the presence of Escherichia coli. Specifically, the H 2 evolution rate was observed to be 57% lower (8.3 mmol g−1 h−1) compared to when Escherichia coli was absent (19.1 mmol g−1 h−1). The primary reason for this phenomenon appears to be the rupture of Escherichia coli cells during the photocatalytic process. As a result, intracellular proteins are released and subsequently adsorbed onto the surface of TiO 2 nanoparticles, impeding the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction. These results provide valuable insights that can inform the design of future photocatalytic hydrogen production processes. [Display omitted] • Effect of E. coli on the photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 nanoparticles. • Preliminary study on the influencing mechanism of E. coli. • Discover the adsorption of E. coli intracellular substances plays a key role. • Discover effect of E. coli on stability of TiO 2 is negligible. • Offer data for design of photocatalytic H 2 production processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) were prepared using the Carchorus hirsutus plant leaf extract and investigated for biomedical applications. The synthesized TiO2NPs were characterized by UV-visible, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDS, and TEM methods and tested for haemolytic activity. The anticancer activity was investigated using MCF7 and HeLa cell lines. The antimicrobial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Candida albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing expansion of chemical industries produces a variety of common pollutants, including colors, which become a global and environmental problem. Using a nanocatalyst is one of the effective ways to reduce these organic contaminants. With this in mind, a straightforward and effective method for the production of a novel nanocatalyst based on lignin-derived carbon, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and Ag particles (TiO2/C/Ag) is described. The preparation of carbon and Ag particles (in sub-micro and nano size) was carried out by laser ablation in air. The nanocomposite was synthesized using a facile magnetic stirrer of TiO2, C, and Ag. According to characterization methods, a carbon nanostructure was successfully synthesized through the laser irradiation of lignin. According to scanning electron microscope images, spherical Ag particles were agglomerated over the nanocomposite. The catalytic activities of the TiO2/C/Ag nanocomposite were tested for the decolorization of methylene blue (MB) and Congo red (CR), employing NaBH4 in a water-based solution at 25 °C. After adding fresh NaBH4 to the mixture of nanocomposite and dyes, both UV absorption peaks of MB and CR completely disappeared after 10 s and 4 min, respectively. The catalytic activity of the TiO2/C/Ag nanocomposite was also examined for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) using a NaBH4 reducing agent, suggesting the complete reduction of 4-NP to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) after 2.30 min. This shows excellent catalytic behavior of the prepared nanocomposite in the reduction of organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was to examine the effects of adding TiO2 nanoparticles to cementitious compositions and partially substituting natural aggregates with recycled aggregates consisting of glass, brick, slag, or textolite, and to examine the material's ability to resist corrosion under the action of chloride ions existent in the environment that attack the steel reinforcement. The results show that the changes in the cementitious composite when it comes to the composition and microstructure influence the formation of the oxide passivating layer of the reinforcement. The addition of TiO2 nanoparticles and recycled aggregates impacts the kinetics and corrosion mechanism of the reinforcement. An addition of 3% TiO2 was found to be optimal for reinforcement protection. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirmed the results obtained by open-circuit potential and linear polarization tests. The classification of favorable conditions indicates that compositions with recycled aggregates and 3% TiO2 are the most effective, with compositions in which the natural aggregates were partially substituted with slag being the most effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dye-sensitised solar cells (DSSCs) have gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to silicon-based solar cells. The present study, provides a unique approach for the construction of DSSCs using anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) as the photoelectrode material and natural fruit extracts (blackcurrent and pomegranate) as photosensitisers. To generate a compact and homogenous TiO2 anatase layer, nanoparticles are deposited onto a transparent conducting fluorine-doped tin oxide glass. Subsequently, natural fruit extracts were added to the TiO2 anatase film, functioning as photosensitisers to absorb sunlight and start the electron transfer process. Each fruit extract unique chemical makeup adds to the absorption of various wavelengths, widening the DSSC's light absorption spectrum. A thin graphite coating was applied to a conducting material for the generation of a counter electrode, which completes the DSSC structure. The sensitised TiO2 anatase layer and counter electrode are joined together, with a redox electrolyte filling the gap between them. Current–voltage measurements used to characterise the manufactured DSSC during simulated solar irradiation. The DSSC's efficiency was calculated as 0.4–18% based on the produced photocurrent and incident light intensity. The study's finding shows that a DSSC can be successfully fabricated because of its low manufacturing cost and low harmful. It has wide applicability in renewable energy sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various finger dimensions of interdigitated electrodes in TiO2-B2O3 nanocomposite sensors were proposed in this study. To study the silver diffusement effect on the hydrogen sensing characteristics at different operating temperatures. The result showed that some of the silver particles diffused to the surface of the TiO2-B2O3 nanocomposite sensor after the annealing process at 500°C. The amount of silver particles diffused into the TiO2-B2O3 surface was contributed by the finger dimension of the interdigitated electrode used in the nanocomposite sensor. The results revealed that the structure of interdigitated electrodes in T65 nanocomposite sensor enhanced the performance at low hydrogen concentrations with response values were approximately 4.78, 11.47, 14.47, 16.58, and 20.00 for 100 ppm, 300 ppm, 500 ppm, 700 ppm, and 1000 ppm, respectively, at the optimum operating temperature of 200°C. The activation energy for all nanocomposite sensors was approximately in the range of 40–70 kJ/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascribing to the abundance of Ti element, exceptional electrical conductivity, and electrocatalytic performance, titanium carbide MXene (Ti3C2Tx, MX) is considered as an ideal conductive matrix and employed for in situ preparation of promising TiO2 NPs@MX/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) heterojunction electrodes for uric acid (UA) detection. However, the incapability of achieving the controllable growth and synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on MX nanosheets is a bottleneck in fabricating optimal and controllable TiO2 NPs@MX hybrid. Herein, an "on‐site transformation strategy" is developed to synthetize TiO2 NPs@MX/rGO heterojunction platform controllably by in situ electrochemical oxidizing MX nanosheets at various treatment times. The proposed approach allows for the greater operability to controllably grow and synthetize TiO2 NPs on the surface of MX nanosheets. The heterojunction electrodes present a linear voltammetric response toward UA in the concentration range of 0.003–0.3 and 0.3–300 μm and a low detection limit of 0.78 nm (S/N = 3). Additionally, a handheld electrochemical system with a smartphone readout is developed for point‐of‐care health monitoring, enabling fast, precise, and specific recognition of UA in real urine samples. The study provides a facile and controllable approach to fabricate TiO2 NPs@MX/rGO heterojunction platform for future use in other biomolecules' detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the optical and structural properties of iPP/TiO2 nanocomposite fibres, considering three distinct extrusion speeds (25, 50 and 78 m/min) in addition to blank isotactic polypropylene samples were determined. Employing computed tomographic scans, localised optical defects in the nanocomposite fibres are unveiled, while refractive indices are examined by analysing transmitted intensity with incident light vibrating parallel and perpendicular to the fibre axis. The internal structure is further characterised through birefringence and density calculations. Mechanical properties, specifically stiffness, are probed by measuring elastic modulus values along the fibre. The investigation extends to the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles in the isotactic polypropylene matrix, inspecting their influence on the uniform morphology along and across the fibre. While the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles has many advantages, including enhanced properties, the study shows adverse effects on the morphological integrity of the fibres, particularly at higher extrusion rates. Micrographs are included to visually illustrate these findings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex interaction between extrusion rates, TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation, and the resulting optical and structural properties in iPP fibres. LAY DESCRIPTION: Computed tomographic scans of iPP/TiO2 nanocomposite fibers were used to investigate their optical and structural properties. Three samples of the nanocomposite fibers were extruded with extrusion speeds (25 m/min, 50 m/min, and 78 m/min) in addition to blank isotactic polypropylene sample were used in this study. Employing computed tomographic scans, localized optical defects in the nanocomposite fibers are unveiled, while refractive indices are examined by analyzing transmitted intensity with incident light vibrating parallel and perpendicular to the fiber axis. The internal structure on the molecular level was characterized through birefringence and density measurements. The effect of the extrusion speed on the structure of iPP/TiO2 nanocomposite samples was investigated through measuring their birefringence and density distributions along the fiber axis. The mechanical properties, specifically stiffness, are probed by measuring elastic modulus values along the fiber axis. The investigation extends to the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles in the isotactic polypropylene matrix, inspecting their influence on the uniform morphology along and across the fiber. Slow extrusion rates enhance the properties of iPP fiber, while fast extrusion introduces agglomerated sites which has drastic effect on the optical and structural properties of TiO2‐doped iPP fibers. Micrographs are included to visually illustrate these findings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex interaction between extrusion speed, TiO2 nanoparticle incorporation, and the resulting optical and structural properties in iPP fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addressed primarily the characterisation and quantification of titanium dioxide (TiO2) (nano)particles (NPs) in a large variety of commercial foodstuffs. The samples were purchased from local markets in Spain before the ban of TiO2 food additive (E171) in the EU. The analyses were carried out by single particle inductively coupled plasma-tandem mass spectrometry (spICP-MS/MS) in mass shift mode (oxidation of 48Ti to 48Ti16O (m/z = 64)) and using a highly efficient sample introduction system (APEX™ Ω). This novel analytical approach allowed accurate characterisation of a large panel of TiO2 NPs sizes ranging from ∼12 to ∼800 nm without isobaric interferences from 48Ca isotope, which is highly abundant in most of the analysed foodstuffs. TiO2 NPs were extracted from foodstuffs using sodium dodecyl sulphate (0.1%, w/v) and diluted with ultra-pure water to reach ∼ 1000 particles signals per acquisition. All the analysed samples contained TiO2 NPs with concentrations ranging from 1010 to 1014 particles kg−1, but with significant low recoveries compared to the total Ti determination. A selection of samples was also analysed using a similar spICP-MS/MS approach with a conventional sample introduction system. The comparison of results highlighted the improvement of the limit of detection in size (12 nm) by the APEX™ Ω system, providing nanoparticulate fractions ranging from ∼4% (cheddar sauce) up to ∼87% (chewing gum), which is among the highest nanoparticulate fractions reported in literature using a spICP-MS approach. In addition, two commercially available E171 additives were analysed using the previous approaches and other techniques in different European laboratories with the aim of methods inter-comparison. This study provides occurrence data related to TiO2 NPs in common commercial foodstuffs but it also demonstrates the potential of the novel analytical approach based on APEX™-ICP-MS/MS to characterise nano-size TiO2 particles in complex matrices such as foodstuffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we prepared two kinds of nanocomposites (MCT#1 and MCT#2) involving MWCNTs and TiO2 nanoparticles. The characterisation of the samples is carried out based on FTIR spectroscopy and TEM. The Ti-O groups that is attributed to the TiO2 nanoparticles can be confirmed according to the FTIR analysis. TEM images show that the average particle size of TiO2 nanoparticles in prepare MCT#1 and MCT#2 is equal to 13 nm and 15 nm, respectively. The influences of nanocomposites weight fraction and illumination time are investigated on the decomposition rate of methyl orange (MO) as pollutant. The photocatalytic results exhibit that the decomposition rate of MO is increased with respect to the weight fraction and illumination time. Meanwhile, higher decomposition rate can be observed using MCT#2 compared to MCT#1. Statistical analysis of the results based on Duncan's multiple range test at α = 0.05 reveals that all of the applied levels of the factors have a significant effect on the decomposition rate. The response surface results confirm that the effect of illumination time is high that that of weight fraction of MCT#1 and MCT#2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) were directly conjugated with the phototherapeutic prodrug, 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA), using a mild and green approach. The resultant TiO2NPs‐ALA nanoconjugates were characterized by different techniques, including HPLC, UV‐Vis, FTIR‐ATR, 1H‐NMR, FESEM‐EDS, TEM, DLS, and synchrotron radiation‐induced XPS (SR‐XPS) to assess the successful loading of 15 % and the chemical stability of ALA on the TiO2NPs. More importantly, the SR‐XPS results showed the stabilizing effect of TiO2 nanosurface on the ALA molecules (against structural change) in neutral and alkaline pHs, which is of great significance in the potential therapeutic applications of ALA. The FESEM and TEM results exhibited the grain‐like TiO2NPs‐ALA particles with a 20–50 nm size distribution, indicating size‐controlling effect of ALA on the TiO2NPs during the conjugation process and the presence of the organic molecule layer onto the surface. TiO2NPs‐ALA represents a promising candidate for studies in photodynamic therapy considering the stabilization effect observed by spectroscopic characterizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have attracted significant attention across various fields due to their compact size, light weight, high output voltage, versatile shapes, and strong compatibility. However, substantial wear at solid–solid contact interfaces presents a major obstacle to the electrical output stability of TENGs. The objective of this study is to investigate the output performances of TENGs lubricated with TiO2-doped oleic acid. The results suggest that the triboelectrical performances of the polyimide (PI) film sliding against a steel ball under 0.1 wt% TiO2-doped oleic acid are significantly improved compared to those under dry conditions; the growth rates are 35.2%, 103.6, and 85.6%, respectively. Moreover, the coefficient of friction dropped from 0.31 to 0.066. The wear and performance enhancement mechanism are also analyzed. This study provides an effective approach to improve both the electrical performances and tribological behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focus on the leather market has recently been on the rise due to the global increase in demand for leather products, driven by rising disposable income levels and improving standards of living among the expanding middle-class population. To enhance the performance of the final leather product, we have employed nanoparticles (NPs) across various stages of leather manufacturing. Specifically, in the finishing processthe ultimate stage of leather productionnumerous studies have underscored the significance of Ag, TiO2, and SiO2 NPs in significantly enhancing various characteristics of leather. On the other hand, the rapid growth in the application of NPs to leather finishing, and more in general in the leather industry, has occurred concomitantly with increased attention toward potential risks associated with their usage in biological systems and ecosystems. Given these considerations, the objective of this critical review is to provide a detailed and thorough analysis of the factors influencing the toxicity and cytotoxicity of nanoparticles commonly adopted in the leather finishing stage, with particular emphasis on Ag, TiO2, and SiO2 NPs, along with their effects on the safety and health of workers. Moreover, the following study aims to identify necessary precautions and safety measures that the leather industry should implement when handling nanoparticles during the finishing stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon electrode‐based perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) without a hole transport material (HTM) are cost‐effective and exhibit impressive long‐term stability. The electron transporting layer (ETL) plays a crucial role in planar CsFA‐based HTM‐free C‐PSCs, serving as both an electron transporter and a hole barrier. Herein, the role of low‐TiO2 morphology and thickness on the performance of CsFA‐based HTM‐free C‐PSCs are addressed. Herein, the devices are fabricated with a simple structure fluorine‐doped tin oxide /TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs)/Cs0.17FA0.83Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3/carbon, using low‐temperature processes (≤150 °C) under ambient air conditions. By optimizing TiO2 NP layer thickness via spin‐coating speed adjustments, the ETL's coverage and compactness are improved, enhancing the perovskite film's quality, crystallinity, and grain size. An optimal TiO2 ETL at 1500 rpm yields 10.80% efficiency and demonstrates exceptional stability, maintaining 80% efficiency over 120 days in an air environment without encapsulation. The enhancement in device performance is attributed to improved surface properties of the TiO2 NPs ETL, effectively reducing interfacial charge recombination. This straightforwardly supports the development of sustainable, commercial‐ready CsFA HTM‐free C‐PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of advanced photocatalysts for air pollution removal is essential to improve indoor air quality. TiO2/mesoporous silica SBA-15 nanocomposites were synthesized using an organometallic decoration method, which leverages the high reactivity of Ti precursors to be hydrolyzed on the surface water groups of silica supports. Both lab-made Ti(III) amidinate and commercial Ti(IV) amino precursors were utilized to react with water-rich SBA-15, obtained through a hydration process. The hydrated SBA-15 and the TiO2/SBA-15 nanocomposites were characterized using TGA, FTIR, 1H and 29Si NMR, TEM, SEM, N2 physisorption, XRD, and WAXS. This one-step TiO2 decoration method achieved a loading of up to 51.5 wt.% of approximately 9 nm anatase particles on the SBA-15 surface. This structuring provided excellent accessibility of TiO2 particles for photocatalytic applications under pollutant gas and UV-A light exposure. The combination with the high specific surface area of SBA-15 resulted in the efficient degradation of 400 ppb of NO pollutant gas. Due to synergistic effects, the best nanocomposite in this study demonstrated a NO abatement performance of 4.0% per used mg of TiO2, which is 40% more efficient than the reference photocatalytic material TiO2 P-25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mobility study aimed to determine the transport of TiO2 NPs from topsoil to deeper zones. The saturated soil column method imitated TiO2 NPs transport in real-world conditions and possible leaching scenarios. Three soils were studied: City soil (SCity), Agricultural (SAgri), and Sand. This investigation used ICP-OES, EDX, SEM and DLS to determine TiO2 NPs sizes, track the mobility patterns and quantify them in soil layers. The results have revealed that the mobility and retention of TiO2 NPs were highly influenced by Clay, organic matter (OM), and CEC. The concentration of TiO2 NPs in the deepest soil layers and the breakthrough water was low in SCity, in which Clay and OM were high. In contrast, TiO2 NPs were relatively high in the lowest layers of SAgri, where the Clay and OM content was insignificant. The columns packed with Sand showed the highest transported of TiO2 NPs where Clay and OM were absent. The breakthrough water obtained from Sand columns showed the highest TiO2 NPs concentration, followed by SAgri and SCity. The columns packed with SCity had more TiO2 NPs retention due to the presence of CEC in Clay and OM. This investigation showed that the transport of TiO2 NPs in the soil at low concentrations is a fact. It depends on soil properties such as texture, OM content, pH, and CEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbial resistance to the traditional antibiotics causes serious health problems and increases day by day. Thus, there is a pressing need to discover alternative antimicrobial agents of different nature than that of the conventional antibiotics. For this, novel hydrogel nanocomposite films are prepared by chemical crosslinking grafting of carboxymethyl cellulose with N,N′‐methylene‐bis‐acrylamide (CMC‐g‐MBA), which subsequently followed by loading two different weight ratios of titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs), such as 3% (CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3%) and 5% (CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5%) wt%. Their chemical structure and surface morphology are confirmed using appropriate analytical techniques. Their antimicrobial activity can be arranged as follows: CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5% composite > CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3% composite > CMC‐g‐MBA hydrogel. While, the native CMC has no observable antimicrobial effect. CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3% composite imparts good barrier properties to the coated tomato fruits, delaying their spoilage and protecting them from the environmental microbes compared to the uncoated ones. CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5% composite is safe on the normal human cells. Thus, incorporation of both MBA and TiO2NPs into CMC greatly develops its antimicrobial activity and provides a wonderful approach to attain promising materials that can efficiently compete with conventional antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using sol–gel technique, we synthesized a novel series of titania-silicate glasses doped with Ho3+ ions, featuring a chemical composition (80-x) SiO2 + 20TiO2 + xHoCl3 (where x varied from 0.5 to 3.5 mol%, and was referred to as Ho3+ ions concentrations). Subsequently, we conducted comprehensive characterization to investigate both the physical parameters and spectroscopic properties of these glasses. Structural analysis involved techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to elucidate their structural properties. Using the Debye–Scherrer equation, the average grain size of polymorphic anatase phase TiO2 NPs was determined to be 14 nm. To comprehend the visible photoluminescence and lasing potentialities of titania-silicate glasses, spectroscopic studies including optical absorption and emission measurements were carried out. The bonding behavior of the Ho3+ ions and its surrounding ligand was studied using Judd–Ofelt (JO) intensity parameters (Ωλ, λ = 2, 4, 6); Ω2 > Ω4 > Ω6; regardless of Ω2 or Ω4 or Ω6, they all initially rise and then decrease with Ho3+ ion concentration, reaching their maximum value at 1.5 mol%. There are five visible emissions in the glass photoluminescence spectrum: two red, one green, and one blue. The green emission has the maximum intensity, occurring at 549 nm from the 5S2 → 5I8 transition. Analysis involved employing calculations to ascertain various parameters including the spectroscopic quality factor (χ = Ω4/Ω6), color chromaticity coordinates (x, y), correlated color temperature (CCT), and color purity (CP). Its appropriateness for designing and developing visible green lasers is demonstrated by the strong visible emission, large stimulated emission cross-section (σse), and high branching ratio (β) achieved during the 5S2 → 5I8 (green) transition of titania-silicate glass doped with 1.5 mol% of Ho3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas sensors for ammonia (NH3) play a crucial role in the maintenance of air quality, preservation of the atmosphere, and evaluation of human health. However, the endeavor to attain a high level of sensitivity in detecting NH3 under ambient conditions remains a challenging task. In this work, poly(3‐hexylthiophene)s and titanium dioxide (P3HT‐TiO2) heterostructure NH3 gas‐sensitive material was prepared, and by drop‐casting the material onto a substrate with Au interdigital electrodes, a sensor for high‐response detection of NH3 at room temperature was constructed. The designed gas sensor exhibited a high response signal of 114.61 % toward 15 ppm NH3 at room temperature (25 °C) with good reproducibility, strong long‐term stability, and excellent selectivity. Moreover, by analyzing the response law of the sensor under different humidity conditions, it has been noted that both excessively high and excessively low levels of humidity adversely affect the sensor's response. The remarkable increase in NH3 sensing properties is attributed to the synergistic enhancement effect of P−N heterojunction formed between P3HT and TiO2. This NH3 gas sensor exhibits tremendous potential for use due to its straightforward structure and outstanding ammonia sensing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the eco-friendly synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) using Beta vulgaris (beetroot) extract. The material undergoes comprehensive characterization through XRD, Raman analysis, FTIR, BET, SEM, and TEM techniques. XRD analysis reveals a well-defined pure anatase phase, while TEM analysis confirms an average particle size of approximately 12 nm for the TiO2-NPs. The photocatalytic performance is evaluated using methylene blue dye under direct sunlight. Results indicate that TiO2-NPs exhibit high effectiveness as a photocatalyst, achieving a degradation efficiency of 91.41% within 195 min of sunlight exposure. Kinetic analysis against pseudo-first-order kinetics shows excellent fitting of experimental data with an R2 value of 0.99, indicating strong data correlation. The theoretically calculated half-life is 54.69 min, with a normalized rate constant (kapp) of 1.267 min−1 g−1. Furthermore, the reusability assessment demonstrates that the retained photocatalytic activity of TiO2-NPs even after three cycles of photodegradation was the same. Additionally, antibacterial assays reveal moderate activity against gram-negative bacterial strains such as E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while no activity is observed against gram-positive bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a widespread disease of various types worldwide that affects many people. Today, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have substantial therapeutic applications. We investigated how harmful titanium dioxide is to breast cancer cells. MCF-7 cancer cells and HFF cell lines were cultured. The survival of cells exposed to different amounts of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was tested. The examined concentrations were 25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/ml. The survival rate was measured after 48 and 72 hours and IC50 was determined. We found that the highest toxicity occurred  while MCF-7 and HFF cells were exposed to 200 μg/ml of titanium dioxide. Apoptosis in MCF-7 and HFF cells emerged as shown with Annexin V-PI staining and flow cytometry. Under a microscope, it was found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles could be harmful in specific amounts. At a dose of 200 μg/ml, after 48 and 72 hours of treatment, MCF-7 and HFF cells were affected. The mitochondrial membrane broke when breast cells were exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The matrix leaked into the cytoplasm, and the rough endoplasmic reticulum swelled. These observations occurred after 72 hours of treatment with a concentration of 200 µg/ml. Considering the acquired effects, titanium dioxide nanoparticles may be advocated as potential medicinal candidates for pharmaceutical purposes even though further research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to synthesize and characterize nanocomposite films of chitosan and titanium dioxide in terms of molecular structure, thermal and optical properties for use in food packaging and optoelectronic applications. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the interaction between the TiO2-NPs and chitosan and the analysis confirmed that TiO2-NPs interacted with chitosan and demonstrated good compatibility. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis revealed that increasing the concentration of TiO2-NPs improved the thermal stability of the nanocomposites. The linear optical properties in the UV-Vis range (200–800 nm) were measured spectrophotometrically. Below 400 nm, the transmittance spectra of the nanocomposites show decreased degrees of transparency, indicating their capacity to entirely block UV-light transmission. Tauc's model was used to identify the types of electronic transitions in the samples. The single-oscillator model was utilized to investigate the dispersion energy and parameters. Nonlinear optical properties were also investigated. UV-Vis in the region (360-410 nm), the analysis revealed that increasing the concentration of TiO2-NPs from 0 to 12 wt% reduced the absorption edge from 2.716 to 2.043 eV, decreased the direct (3.282 to 2.798 eV) and indirect (2.417 to 1.581 eV) energy band gaps, increased the Urbach energy from 0.692 to 1.295 eV, decreased the dispersion energy from 11.324 to 5.621 eV, decreased the single oscillator energy from 6.308 to 5.393 eV, and improved the other linear and nonlinear parameters. The findings support the usage of CS/TiO2 nanocomposite films in the packaging industry and a variety of optical applications.

This study aimed to develop a pH indicator film using a combination of hydrocolloids (polyvinyl alcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, and rice flour; PCR film), Dendrobium orchid flower (DOF) extract, and TiO2 nanoparticles to monitor shrimp and crab freshness during 9 days of cold storage. LC-MS/MS analysis identified a rare anthocyanin, cyanidin-3-[6-sinapoyl-2-O-(2-(sinapoyl)glucosyl)-glucoside], in the DOF extract, responsible for its color expression. The DOF extract showed a clear color variation in different solutions (pH 1–13). TiO2 nanoparticles influenced the film's thickness, tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EB), water vapor permeability (WVP), and color properties. Structural changes due to nanoparticles were confirmed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. PCR+DOF+8%TiO2 film showed the highest TS (13.75 ± 0.60 MPa), EB (2.24 ± 1.42 %), and WVP (3.57 ± 1.12 × 10-11 g·m·Pa-1·m-2·s-1) values and was more sensitive to ammonia vapor than acetic acid vapor. In practical applications, the film could effectively indicate shrimp spoilage through color change but was less precise for crab samples. The film effectively indicated shrimp spoilage through a color shift to green on the 4th day, correlating with total viable count and volatile nitrogen levels exceeding safe consumption thresholds. Thus, this film could serve as an efficient diagnostic tool for monitoring seafood spoilage.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Nafion/TiO2 nanoparticles as an electrocatalyst on the electrochemical behavior of graphite felt (GF) electrodes in a vanadium redox flow battery. Various electrochemical tests, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), were conducted to assess the performance of these electrodes at different concentrations of nanoparticles (2–4 g l-1). Additionally, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy were employed to analyze the chemical composition, bonding, and morphology of the decorated electrodes, respectively. The CV results revealed several effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on the GF electrode, such as increased peak intensity and shifted peak sites. As the concentration of nanoparticles increased, the peak intensity rose by up to 44%. Moreover, the potentials of the decorated electrodes shifted towards the favorable side compared to the GF electrode, with changes ranging from 18 to 84%. Overall, the optimal concentration of TiO2 nanoparticles (3 g l-1) exhibited excellent electrode performance, characterized by the highest calculated diffusion coefficient, greater reversibility, enhanced electron transfer kinetics, improved stability, lower over-potential, and the lowest activation energy for redox reactions. EIS results demonstrated a significant decrease in polarization resistance (67.2–70.8%) for the decorated electrodes. Furthermore, LSV measurements indicated that the utilization of nano-electrocatalysts effectively inhibited hydrogen evolution at negative potentials.

Textile industry waste such as methylene blue can pose a serious threat to health and ecosystems. One solution to overcome this problem is to utilize photocatalytic technology using TiO2 semiconductors. This research aims to make green synthetic TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) using red spinach (Amaranthus Tricolor L.) leaf extract and used for photodegradation of methylene blue. Extraction of red spinach leaves showed that 30 min and a temperature of 95°C showed the highest phenolic content. In this research, several phenolic compounds were also identified in red spinach extract. For TiO2 NPs, the X-ray diffraction results show that TiO2 has a pure anatase phase. Electron microscope results show that TiO2 has the shape of agglomerated spherical clusters. The particle size distribution shows that TiO2 has an average size range of 77–90 nm. The methylene blue photodegradation showed that TiO2 had an efficiency of 90.36% for 180 min, higher than commercial TiO2 Evonic. This result can be attributed to the small particle size and broadband spectra so that photocatalysis is more effective.

Abstract This study presents the synthesis of TiO2‐graphene nanocomposites with varying mass ratios of graphene (2.5, 5, 10, 20 wt. %) using a facile and cost‐effective hydrothermal approach. By integrating TiO2 nanoparticles with graphene, a nanomaterial characterized by a two‐dimensional structure, unique electrical conductivity and high specific surface area, the resulting hybrid material shows promise for application in supercapacitors. The nanocomposite specimens were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, supercapacitive properties were investigated using a three‐electrode setup by cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge‐discharge (GCD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Notably, the TiO2‐20 wt. % rGO nanocomposite exhibited the highest specific capacitance of 624 F/g at 2 A/g, showcasing superior electrochemical performance. This specimen indicated a high rate capability and cyclic stability (93 % retention after 2000 cycles). Its remarkable energy density and power density of this sample designate it as a strong contender for practical supercapacitor applications.

The continuous and inappropriate use of traditionally used antimicrobial agents has caused the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains and the mutation of microorganisms in the field of dentistry. Therefore, various nanoparticles have been developed to combat resistant pathogens. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been attractive antimicrobial agents because of their chemical stability, non-toxicity, and inexpensive precursors. Therefore, TiO2-based nanodispersions were explored by preparing them with well-known antimicrobial agents, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl), to enhance the antimicrobial effect. In this study, sol-gel-based TiO2 NPs-HOCl nanodispersions were synthesized and characterized. The antimicrobial effect was assessed by a microdilution assay using S. mutans, S. aureus, E. faecalis, and C. albicans strains by incubating different concentrations of the nanodispersions. To evaluate the cytotoxic effects, stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) were inoculated and evaluated using the MTT assay. The nanodispersion exhibited an enhanced antimicrobial effect, with almost no cytotoxicity. The HOCl-based nanodispersion exhibited a greater antimicrobial effect and high stability. Thus, it can be used as a promising antimicrobial agent for the treatment of various dental pathogens.

This report demonstrates the development of carbon fibers (CFs) decorated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) as an efficient photocatalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) as a model dye. Carbon fibers were produced by carbonization of polyacrylonitrile fibers, previously produced by centrifugal spinning. Subsequently, the CFs were decorated with TiO2 NPs (CFs@TiO2) by tailored soaking protocol using aqueous TiCl4 solution with different concentrations (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 M). SEM analyses revealed that soaking in TiCl4 produced a smooth, conformal, continuous TiO2 nanoparticulate coating with thickness increasing from 40.4 ± 21.2 to 257.9 ± 63.9 nm with increasing TiCl4 concentration. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the anatase nature of TiO2. Photocatalytic decomposition rates of MB were assessed under UV light illumination for all CFs@TiO2 samples, and it was revealed that the lowest amount of TiO2 NP on C yielded the highest rates. The synergistic interaction between CFs and TiO2 NPs with a uniform morphology and a well-crystalline anatase structure, present in an optimal amount of fiber bodies, is the key reason for the remarkable photocatalytic performance. This work shows that C fibers decorated with an optimal amount of TiO2 NPs have a great potential as an effective photocatalytic material.