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Absolute kinetics for reactions of C2H2 with a series of ∼60 individual carbon nanoparticles (NPs) from graphite, graphene, graphene oxide, carbon black, diamond, and nano-onion feedstocks were measured for temperatures (TNP) ranging from 1200 to 1700 K. All the NPs were observed to gain mass by carbon addition under conditions that varied with feedstock but with large variations in initial growth rate. Long reaction periods were studied to allow the evolution of growth rates over time to be observed. Diamond NPs were found to passivate against C2H2 addition if heated above ∼1400 K, and the highly variable initial reactivity for carbon nano-onions was found to depend on the presence of non-onion-structure surface carbon. For graphitic and carbon black NPs, three distinct growth modes were observed, correlated with the initial NP mass (Minitial). Smallest graphitic and carbon black NPs, with masses <∼25 MDa, initially grew rapidly but also passivated quickly after adding <4% of Minitial. NPs in the 20–50 MDa range also passivated but only after multiple waves of fast growth separated by periods of low reactivity, with up to ∼11% total mass gain before passivation. The largest carbon black and graphitic NPs, with Minitial >50 MDa, grew rapidly and continuously, adding up to ∼300% of Minitial with no sign of rate slowing as long as C2H2 was present. The efficiencies for C2H2 addition and etching by O2 are strongly correlated, but the correlation changes as the NPs passivate. Growth and passivation mechanisms are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the widespread use and improper emissions of carbon black nanoparticles (CBNPs), the adverse effects of CBNPs on human health have attracted much attention. In toxicological research, carbon black is frequently utilized as a negative control because of its low toxicity and poor solubility. However, recent studies have indicated that inhalation exposure to CBNPs could be a risk factor for severe and prolonged pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. At present, the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis induced by CBNPs is still not fully elucidated, but it is known that with small particle size and large surface area, CBNPs are more easily ingested by cells, leading to organelle damage and abnormal interactions between organelles. Damaged organelle and abnormal organelles interactions lead to cell structure and function disorders, which is one of the important factors in the development and occurrence of various diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of organelle structure, function, and interaction mechanisms, while also summarizing the research advancements in organelles and organelle interactions in CBNPs-induced pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the primary focus for scientific authorities and regulatory departments revolves around water pollution. In this regard, photocatalysis has emerged as a highly effective, affordable, and goal‐oriented approach. Thus, recognizing the urgency of this issue, we focused our efforts towards developing a novel ternary photocatalytic structure based on mesoporous SrSnO3, combined with polypyrrole‐doped carbon black (PPC) and platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs). Pt NPs, PPC and SrSnO3‐based nanocomposite photocatalyst was developed through a very simple chemical method followed by ultrasonication and photoreduction techniques. XRD analysis confirmed orthorhombic phase of SrSnO3, while the formation of the ternary nanocomposite among Pt NPs, PPC and SrSnO3 has been confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the presence of Pt NPs (5–15 nm), beads/dense cocoon like structures of PPC along with rod, spherical and needle shape nanostructures of SrSnO3 in newly created ternary photocatalyst. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) showed lowering of band gap energy in case of Pt@PPC/SrSnO3. Newly developed Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 nanocomposite worked efficiently when employed on colorless insecticide imidacloprid (IMD) and on colored methylene blue (MB) dye under UV‐light. Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 photocatalyst exhibited excellent performance with 96.03 % removal of pollutant IMD in only 20 min, almost 296 % more efficient than bare SrSnO3. Furthermore, the Pt@PPC/SrSnO3 ternary photocatalyst showed rapid removal of MB with almost total elimination of dye molecule in just 16 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methodologies across the dispersion preparation, characterization, and cellular dosimetry of hydrophilic nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed and used extensively in the field of nanotoxicology. However, hydrophobic NPs pose a challenge for dispersion in aqueous culture media using conventional methods that include sonication followed by mixing in the culture medium of interest and cellular dosimetry. In this study, a robust methodology for the preparation of stable dispersions of hydrophobic NPs for cellular studies is developed by introducing continuous energy over time via stirring in the culture medium followed by dispersion characterization and cellular dosimetry. The stirring energy and the presence of proteins in the culture medium result in the formation of a protein corona around the NPs, stabilizing their dispersion, which can be used for in vitro cellular studies. The identification of the optimal stirring time is crucial for achieving dispersion and stability. This is assessed through a comprehensive stability testing protocol employing dynamic light scattering to evaluate the particle size distribution stability and polydispersity. Additionally, the effective density of the NPs is obtained for the stable NP dispersions using the volumetric centrifugation method, while cellular dosimetry calculations are done using available cellular computational modeling, mirroring approaches used for hydrophilic NPs. The robustness of the proposed dispersion approach is showcased using a highly hydrophobic NP model (black carbon NPs) and two culture media, RPMI medium and SABM, that are widely used in cellular studies. The proposed approach for the dispersion of hydrophobic NPs results in stable dispersions in both culture media used here. The NP effective density of 1.03–1.07 g/cm3 measured here for black carbon NPs is close to the culture media density, resulting in slow deposition on the cells over time. So, the present methodology for dispersion and dosimetry of hydrophobic NPs is essential for the design of dose–response studies and overcoming the challenges imposed by slow particle deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP), viewed in the context of similarity whenever dispersion is focused, offer valuable insights into the surface characteristics of nanoparticles. However, existing methods for determining HSP via the sedimentation of nanoparticles require multiple probe liquids, resulting in time‐consuming, costly experiments with potential health risks. To address this, we developed a two‐step strategy that enables a systematic selection of liquids. The key element of the approach is to first identify the rough location of the Hansen sphere in the three‐dimensional Hansen space using a well‐chosen set of probe liquids of different polarities and chemical structures. Then, depending on the outcome of the first step, a particular choice of liquids is made for the final HSP determination. Taken together, the introduced procedure reduces the amount of required liquids for experiments from currently more than ten to a maximum of seven chosen based on a well‐defined, coherent methodology. Validation was performed on carbon black, non‐pigmentary nano‐scale titania, silicon/carbon composites, and lanthanum cobaltite particles, i. e. relevant materials that are commonly utilized in fuel cells, batteries, cyclohexene oxidation, catalytic combustion, photocatalysis, and heterogeneous Fenton reactions. The study showcases the potential to save time, costs, and efficiently determine HSP values in a comparable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanofiber (CNF) films or mats have great conductivity and thermal stability and are widely used in different technological processes. Among all the fabrication methods, electrospinning is a simple yet effective technique for preparing CNF mats, but the electrospun CNF mats are often brittle. Here, we report a feasible protocol by which to control the alignment of carbon black nanoparticles (CB NPs) within CNF to enhance the flexibility. The CB NPs (~45 nm) are treated with non-ionic surfactant Triton-X 100 (TX) prior to being blended with a solution containing poly(vinyl butyral) and polyacrylonitrile, followed by electrospinning and then carbonization. The optimized CB-TX@CNF mat has a boosted elongation from 2.25% of pure CNF to 2.49%. On the contrary, the untreated CB loaded in CNF displayed a lower elongation of 1.85% because of the aggregated CB spots created weak joints. The controlled and uniform dispersion of CB NPs helped to scatter the applied bending force in the softness test. This feasible protocol paves the way for using these facile surface-treated CB NPs as a commercial reinforcement for producing flexible CNF films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though nanomaterials based on carbon have been widely used for the preparation of high-performance polymeric nanocomposites, there are few works focused on the effect of carbon nanoparticle morphology on the performance of corresponding polymer nanocomposites. Therefore, four representative carbon nanoparticles, including fullerene, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and carbon black incorporated poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene) (SIS) elastomer nanocomposites were fabricated using the solvent casting method. In addition, the effect of carbon nanoparticle morphology on the rheological, mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of the obtained polymeric nanocomposites was systematically investigated. The results showed that the shape of carbon nanoparticles has a different effect on the properties of the obtained elastomer nanocomposites, which lays the foundation of carbon nanoparticle screening for high-performance polymer nanocomposite construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this experimental study , two units are held and studied: the traditional tubular solar still (TTSS) and the developed tubular solar still (DTSS). The influence of a developed solar parabolic concentrator (DSPC) employed with carbon black nanoparticles (CBNs), a V-corrugated Aluminum basin (VCAB), and wick martial on the thermal efficiency and productivity was investigated in four cases: (Case A): DTSS with DSPC, (Case B): DTSS with DSPC and CBNs, (Case C): DTSS with DSPC and V-corrugated Aluminum basin (VCAB), and CBNs, (Case D): DTSS with DSPC and VCAB and CBNs by using factors such as air temperature, cover temperature, water temperature, air speed, and sun radiation. It was found that case four was the best case, where it had the highest hourly efficiency at 18:0 for each of the traditional unit and the modified unit, and that the energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and daily productivity increased by 129.8%, 365.44%, and 120.536%, respectively, compared to the traditional unit, its cost, which was 0.026$, was reduced by 23%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Laser-Induced Incandescence (LII) technique is widely used for the study of soot production in flames. More recently, it has also drawn attention also for the characterization of metal-oxide flame synthesis. To retrieve the particle volume fraction from the LII signal, information on the effective particle temperature and the absorption function E (m λ) depending on the wavelength are needed. In this study, a new approach is proposed to determine these parameters from LII measurements at a given laser fluence by accounting for the spectral shape of E (m λ) obtained from the estimated effective particle temperature. The feasibility of the method is first demonstrated on a carbon black nanoparticle aerosol in a non-reactive cold environment. A good agreement with the literature data for E (m λ) is found. The developed approach is then applied to TiO 2 nanoparticles produced by flame synthesis. The obtained spectral response of E (m λ) is in line with the literature results for TiO 2 . The proposed approach represents an essential step toward in-situ estimation of particle volume fraction from the LII signal, which can be a valuable tool for further characterization of metal-oxide flame synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coalescence behavior of soot and carbon black has not been so much discussed. The coalescence rate was obtained from the previous experimental results which measured the decrease in mobility diameter by re-heating with tandem differential mobility analyzer. Employing the rate expression used for sintering metallic and inorganic nanoparticles, it was found that the ease of coalescence varied with particle size. It was also suggested that the mechanism of coalescence may differ depending on the temperature. A model of coalescence kinetics based on crystallinity could not represent experimental coalescence kinetics. [Display omitted] • Estimation of coalescence rate constants for carbon nanoparticles. • Conventional formula greatly overestimates coalescing rate. • Coalescence was multi-staged, different mechanism from metal nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is devoted to investigating the mechanical characteristics of a novel natural rubber (NR)-based elastomer nanocomposite reinforced with carbon black and alumina nanoparticles acting as partial and primary reinforcements, respectively. Before conducting various mechanical tests on the specimens, the vulcanization properties of this elastomer nanocomposite was surveyed. It is demonstrated that adding the alumina nanoparticles to the NR-based elastomer matrix can significantly reduce the cure time and improve the quality of the vulcanizates. Then, the influence of alumina nanoparticles on the modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break, and energy absorption capacity of the elastomer nanocomposite were assessed, and the ideal nanoparticles' weight percentage was determined to be 10%. This is supported by calculating the Reinforcing Efficiency Parameter (REP), indicating that the elastomer nanocomposite with 10% alumina has the best reinforcing efficiency in tensile properties. Also, using the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB), it was found that the material is exceptionally strain-rate sensitive, and the specimens exhibited much higher values of stiffness and energy absorption under high strain-rate loading. It is inferred from the results that the elastomer nanocomposite reinforced with the optimal amount of alumina nanoparticles can be an excellent candidate for energy absorption applications under high strain-rate loadings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles are extensively used in industrial products or as food additives. However, despite their contribution to improving our quality of life, concerns have been raised regarding their potential impact on occupational and public health. To speed up research assessing nanoparticle-related hazards, this study was undertaken to identify early markers of harmful effects on the lungs. Female Sprague Dawley rats were either exposed to crystalline silica DQ-12 with instillation, or to titanium dioxide P25, carbon black Printex-90, or multi-walled carbon nanotube Mitsui-7 with nose-only inhalation. Tissues were collected at three post-exposure time points to assess short- and long-term effects. All particles induced lung inflammation. Histopathological and biochemical analyses revealed phospholipid accumulation, lipoproteinosis, and interstitial thickening with collagen deposition after exposure to DQ-12. Exposure to the highest dose of Printex-90 and Mitsui-7, but not P25, induced some phospholipid accumulation. Comparable histopathological changes were observed following exposure to P25, Printex-90, and Mitsui-7. Comparison of overall gene expression profiles identified 15 potential early markers of adverse lung outcomes induced by spherical particles. With Mitsui-7, a distinct gene expression signature was observed, suggesting that carbon nanotubes trigger different toxicity mechanisms to spherical particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nanofluid of modified carbon black (MCB) nanoparticles was initially developed for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in low permeability reservoirs. The MCB nanoparticles were obtained via a three-step reaction involving modification by oxidation, acyl chlorination, and activated grafting. MCB nanoparticles were spherically dispersed, with an average size of 72.3 nm. Compared with carbon black (CB) nanoparticles, dispersed MCB nanoparticles can effectively reduce the oil--water interfacial tension (IFT) to 10-2 mN/m and change the surface wettability of sand particles. Based on the results of core flooding experiments, the MCB nanoparticles exhibited a better EOR capacity than surfactants and CB nanoparticles, and the final oil recovery was significantly increased by 27.27%. The core scanning test showed that the MCB nanoparticles could plug high permeability channels by adsorbing onto the surfaces of sand particles and forming larger aggregates that bridge across pores or throats, resulting in a higher swept volume. The synergistic effects of improved swept volume and oil displacement efficiency were the EOR mechanisms of the MCB nanoparticles. The studies indicate that these MCB nanoparticles have excellent potential for EOR in low permeability reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A preparation method of nanocomposites based on poly (3-octylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (POT) and carbon black (CB) as the transducer of an all-solid potassium ion selective electrode is proposed. POT is used as the dispersant of CB, and the obtained nanocomposites have unique characteristics, including high conductivity, high capacitance and high stability. The potassium ion selective electrode based on POT and CB was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and chronopotentiometry. The results showed that the detection limit of potassium ions was 10−6.2 M, and the slope was 57.6 ± 0.8 mV/façade. The water layer test and anti-interference test show that the electrode has high hydrophobicity, the static contact angle reaches 139.7° and is not easily affected by light, O2 and CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a system comprised of cells, carbon black nanoparticles, and delivery molecules is irradiated with a laser beam, the nanoparticles can absorb and dissipate the laser-delivered energy, producing thermal and acoustic output and fluid mechanical forces. These can then interact with the nearby cell membrane, forming membrane pores that exogenous molecules can diffuse through and access the cytosol. This process, "nanoparticle-mediated photoporation," can cause bio-effects like intracellular delivery of molecules and, at more extreme conditions, loss of cell viability. Through this work, we found that carbon black and carbon nanotubes generated greater bio-effects compared to graphite, diamond, or non-carbon materials, probably due to their more efficient laser energy absorption. Examining the dependence of bio-effects on energy absorption parameters like total energy absorbed, energy absorbed per nanoparticle, and energy absorbed per nanoparticle mass produced poor correlations. However, the correlation of bio-effects was much better with energy transduction parameters more closely related to the energy form transferred to cells like peak temperature, size, and number of vapor bubbles generated by the nanoparticles heated by the laser. A power-law relationship involving these three parameters indicated that peak nanoparticle temperature was the strongest determinant of bio-effects followed by bubble number and radius. This study provides a better understanding of the roles of energy absorption and transduction parameters on bio-effects during nanoparticle-mediated photoporation and facilitates the design of photoporation parameters that achieve desired bio-effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow reactors are widely used to study the formation of various nanoparticles, such as carbon black, soot, nickel, titania, and silica. Such reactors provide well-controlled conditions, making them a favored laboratory tool to investigate the details of particle formation. Here we present NanoParticle Flow Reactor (NanoPFR), a detailed model to simulate nanoparticle synthesis in flow reactors. The model predicts the agglomerate fractal-like morphology and size distribution with a 2-variable sectional population balance model coupled with gas-phase chemistry. The particle formation processes employed in the code are tested using detailed discrete element modeling simulations and then used to predict carbon black formation from ethylene pyrolysis experiments from the literature. The code is a robust flow reactor predictive tool with a strong foundation that can serve as a basis for further development, including the simulation of other nanoparticles formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of nanotechnology, the use of nanoparticles as drug delivery system (DDS) has attracted great interest. We aimed to apply carbon nanohorns (CNHs) as DDS in the development of new treatments for bone diseases. We evaluated the in vitro and in vivo cellular responses of CNHs in bone-related cells compared with carbon blacks (CBs), which are similar in particle size but differ in surface and structural morphologies. Although in vitro experiments revealed that both CNHs and CBs were incorporated into the lysosomes of RAW264-induced osteoclast-like cells (OCs) and MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells (OBs), no severe cytotoxicity was observed. CNHs reduced the tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity and expression of the differentiation marker genes in OCs at noncytotoxic concentrations, whereas the alkaline phosphatase activity and differentiation of OBs increased. Under calcification of OBs, CNHs increased the number of calcified nodules and were intra- and extracellularly incorporated into calcified vesicles to form crystal nuclei. The in vivo experiments showed significant promotion of bone regeneration in the CNH group alone, with localized CNHs being found in the bone matrix and lacunae. The suppression of OCs and promotion of OBs suggested that CNHs may be effective against bone diseases and could be applied as DDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon black (CB) particles tend to aggregate in aqueous solutions, and finding an optimum dispersing condition (e.g., selection of the type of dispersant) is one of the important tasks in related industries. In the present study, three types of styrene maleic acid (SMA) copolymer dispersants were synthesized, labeled respectively 'SMA-1000', 'SMA-2000', and 'SMA-3000', which have 1, 2, and 3 styrene groups in their repeating units. Then, asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AsFlFFF) was employed to measure the particle size distributions of the aqueous CB dispersions. For the particle size analysis of the CB dispersions, dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed relatively lower reproducibility than AsFlFFF. AsFlFFF showed that the use of SMA-3000 yielded a CB dispersion with the most uniform particle size distribution. When the SMA-3000 dispersant was used, the particle size tended to increase after 1 h of milling as the milling time increased, probably due to the re-agglomeration of the particles by excessive milling. The particle size distributions from AsFlFFF were consistent with the colorimetric observations. With the SMA-3000 dispersant, the lowest L ∗ value was observed after 1 h of milling. The AsFlFFF and colorimetric analyses suggest that a stable CB dispersion can be obtained by either 3-h of milling with the SMA-2000 or 1-h of milling with the SMA-3000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the different air pollutants, particulate matter (PM) is of great concern due to its abundant presence in the atmosphere, which results in adverse effects on the environment and human health. The different components of PM can be classified based on their physicochemical properties. Carbonaceous particles (CPs) constitute a major fraction of ultrafine PM and have the most harmful effects. Herein, we present a detailed overview of the main components of CPs, e.g., carbon black (CB), black carbon (BC), and brown carbon (BrC), from natural and anthropogenic sources. The emission sources and the adverse effects of CPs on the environment and human health are discussed. Particularly, we provide a detailed overview of the reported toxic effects of CPs in the human body, such as respiratory effects, cardiovascular effects, neurodegenerative effects, carcinogenic effects, etc. In addition, we also discuss the challenges faced by and limitations of the available analytical techniques for the qualitative and quantitative detection of CPs in atmospheric and biological samples. Considering the heterogeneous nature of CPs and biological samples, a detailed overview of different analytical techniques for the detection of CPs in (real-exposure) biological samples is also provided. This review provides useful insights into the classification, toxicity, and detection of CPs in biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, polymer matrix composites with the compositions PTFE/KFTO(H) and PTFE/KFTO(H)@CB and with filler volume fractions of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 15, and 30% (without and with carbon modification at a content of 2.5 wt.% regarding ceramic material) were produced by calendering and hot pressing and studied using FTIR, SEM, and impedance spectroscopy methods. Ceramic filler (KFTO(H)) was synthesized using the sol–gel Pechini method. Its structure was investigated and confirmed by the XRD method with following Rietveld refinement. The carbon black (CB) modification of KFTO(H) was carried out through the calcination of a mixture of ceramic and carbon materials in an argon atmosphere. Afterwards, composites producing all the components' structures weren't destroyed according to the FTIR results. The effect of carbon additive at a content of 2.5 wt.% relating to ceramic filler in the system of polymer matrix composites was shown, with permittivity increasing up to ε' = 28 with a simultaneous decrease in dielectric loss (tanδ < 0.1) at f = 103 Hz for composites of PTFE/KFTO(H)@CB (30 vol.%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR TEM) is used to identify the size, shape, and interface structure of platinum nanoparticles and carbon support of a fuel cell catalyst. Using these insights, models accessible to quantum chemical methods are designed in order to rationalize the observed features. Thus, basal plane and prism face models of the carbon black material are considered, interacting with Pt clusters of sizes up to 1 nm. Particular attention is paid to the electronic structure of the carbon support, namely, the radical character of graphene zig-zag edges. The results show that a stronger interaction is found when the nanoparticle is at the zig-zag edge of a basal plane due to the combination of dispersion interaction with the support structure and covalent interaction with carbon atoms at the edge. In this case, a distortion of both the Pt nanoparticle and the carbon support is observed, which corresponds to the observations from the HR TEM investigation. Furthermore, the analysis of the charge transfer upon interaction and the influence of the potential on the charge states and structure is carried out on our model systems. In all cases, a clear charge transfer is observed from the carbon support to the Pt nanoparticle. Finally, we show that changing the potential not only can change the charge state of the system but can also affect the nature of the interaction between Pt nanoparticles and carbon supports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been associated with respiratory diseases in humans, yet the mechanisms through which PFAS cause susceptibility to inhaled agents is unknown. Herein, we investigated the effects of ammonium perfluoro(2-methyl-3-oxahexanoate) (GenX), an emerging PFAS, on the pulmonary immune response of mice to carbon black nanoparticles (CBNP). We hypothesized that pulmonary exposure to GenX would increase susceptibility to CBNP through suppression of innate immunity. Male C57BL/6 mice were exposed to vehicle, 4 mg/kg CBNP, 10 mg/kg GenX, or CBNP and GenX by oropharyngeal aspiration. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected at 1 and 14 days postexposure for cytokines and total protein. Lung tissue was harvested for histopathology, immunohistochemistry (Ki67 and phosphorylated (p)-STAT3), western blotting (p-STAT3 and p-NF-κB), and qRT-PCR for cytokine mRNAs. CBNP increased CXCL-1 and neutrophils in BALF at both time points evaluated. However, GenX/CBNP co-exposure reduced CBNP-induced CXCL-1 and neutrophils in BALF. Moreover, CXCL-1, CXCL-2 and IL-1β mRNAs were increased by CBNP in lung tissue but reduced by GenX. Western blotting showed that CBNP induced p-NF-κB in lung tissue, while the GenX/CBNP co-exposed group displayed decreased p-NF-κB. Furthermore, mice exposed to GenX or GenX/CBNP displayed increased numbers of BALF macrophages undergoing mitosis and increased Ki67 immunostaining. This was correlated with increased p-STAT3 by western blotting and immunohistochemistry in lung tissue from mice co-exposed to GenX/CBNP. Pulmonary exposure to GenX suppressed CBNP-induced innate immune response in the lungs of mice yet promoted the proliferation of macrophages and lung epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the content of carbon black with the particle size of 18–20 nm and compatibilizers on the specific electrical conductivity of composites based on such polyolefins as high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene–hexene copolymer, and random polypropylene copolymer was studied. High-density polyethylene and polypropylene, both functionalized with maleic anhydride, were used as compatibilizers. One of the goals was to study the mechanism of formation of conducting chain structures and clusters in the objects under consideration. The carbon black concentration was varied in the interval 1–30 wt %. Examination of electron-microscopic images showed that carbon particles are distributed mainly in the interspherulite amorphous space to form a chain structure responsible for the electronic or tunneling conductivity. The higher is the degree of crystallinity of the initial polyolefin, the lower is the carbon content at which the maximal specific electrical conductivity of the composites is reached. The influence of the degree of crystallinity of the polymer matrix on the specific electrical conductivity of the composites was studied with blends of high-density polyethylene and ethylene–propylene–diene rubber as an example. The specific electrical conductivity of the composites decreases as the content of ethylene–propylene–diene elastomer in high-density polyethylene filled with carbon black is increased from 10 to 70 wt %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles as a secondary filler on the filler networking in carbon black (CB)/SiC hybrid filled styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) were investigated in detail. It was shown that there was a critical loading in the low‐loading range of SiC, which can significantly improve the final dispersion state in the hybrid composite. It was discussed that in the critical loading of SiC due to the surface energy mismatch between CB and SiC the kinetics and the extent of filler networking in the SBR matrix were decreased. It was demonstrated how CB/SiC hybrid filler networking results in synergistic effects in dynamic, and tribological properties of SBR composites. Obtained results demonstrated that the use of nano SiC as a secondary filler in CB filled rubber composites can open up new opportunities to manufacture rubber composites with integrated dynamic‐mechanical and tribological performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improved strategies are required for testing nanomaterials (NMs) to make hazard and risk assessment more efficient and sustainable. Including reduced reliance on animal models, without decreasing the level of human health protection. Acellular detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be useful as a screening assay to prioritize NMs of high concern. To improve reliability and reproducibility, and minimize uncertainty, a standard operating procedure (SOP) has been developed for the detection of ROS using the 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH2-DA) assay. The SOP has undergone an inter- and intra-laboratory comparison, to evaluate robustness, reliability, and reproducibility, using representative materials (ZnO, CuO, Mn2O3, and BaSO4 NMs), and a number of calibration tools to normalize data. The SOP includes an NM positive control (nanoparticle carbon black (NPCB)), a chemical positive control (SIN-1), and a standard curve of fluorescein fluorescence. The interlaboratory comparison demonstrated that arbitrary fluorescence units show high levels of partner variability; however, data normalization improved variability. With statistical analysis, it was shown that the SIN-1 positive control provided an extremely high level of reliability and reproducibility as a positive control and as a normalization tool. The NPCB positive control can be used with a relatively high level of reproducibility, and in terms of the representative materials, the reproducibility CuO induced-effects was better than for Mn2O3. Using this DCFH2-DA acellular assay SOP resulted in a robust intra-laboratory reproduction of ROS measurements from all NMs tested, while effective reproduction across different laboratories was also demonstrated; the effectiveness of attaining reproducibility within the interlaboratory assessment was particle-type-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Re nanoparticles are prepared by a joint reduction method of carbon and hydrogen. • The as-obtained Re nanoparticles are only about 108.6 nm with a slight C and O. • The presence of carbon black can significantly reduce the particle size of products. • A further reduction of hydrogen can decrease the contents of C and O residues. Ultrafine powders are crucial for the preparation of high-performance Re-based materials via low-temperature sintering. In this work, a joint reduction method of carbon and hydrogen is proposed to prepare Re nanopowder for the first time. The former carbon black can significantly reduce the particle size of final products, and the latter hydrogen reduction can decrease the contents of carbon and oxygen residues. And the as-obtained rhenium nanopowder is only about 108.6 nm with a slight carbon (0.019 wt%) and oxygen (0.03 wt%). This method is straightforward, easy to implement, low-cost and conducive to the large-scale industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical sensors to quantify concentrations of emerging pollutants have attracted great attention from the industry and scientific community. Nanomaterials such as carbon black have been applied in sensors to identify substances that are toxic to the environment and human health due to their excellent electroanalytical properties. The aim of the study was to develop a novel electrochemical sensor for the endocrine disruptor hormone determination. To our knowledge, for the first time the synthesis of material based on carbon black containing immobilized palladium nanoparticles, with the application for the hormone ethinylestradiol, is reported in the literature. The material was synthesized, characterized, and applied to the determination in tap water and human urine of the synthetic hormone 17α‐ethinylestradiol (EE2), which is currently considered an emerging pollutant. The morphology, structure and electrochemical performance of the sensors were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in sodium phosphate buffer solution at pH 5.0 allowed the generation of a method to quantify the concentration of 17α‐ethinylestradiol in a linear range of 0.5–119.0 μmol L−1, obtaining 81.0 nmol L−1 of calculated limit of detection (LOD). The system was efficient in detecting 17α‐ethinylestradiol in real urine samples and showed no interferences for ascorbic acid, uric acid, progesterone, and dopamine. It is noteworthy that the results obtained showed good recovery values, considering that the urine samples were not previously treated or pre‐concentrated, which suggests the development of an electrochemical sensor that works in situ and in real time to monitor relevant substances in the control clinical and environmental, with the possibility of point‐of‐care analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we evaluated the processing and reinforcement characteristics of both carbon black (CB) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) within a nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) matrix. The aspect ratio of the GNPs was measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and related to the dispersion and agglomeration within the NBR matrix, as observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The relationship between GNP aspect ratio and mechanical properties was studied by micromechanical modelling. The tensile and tear properties of NBR after compounding with GNPs were enhanced to a greater extent compared to carbon black, while curing times were smaller and scorch times longer, indicating some of the advantages of using GNPs. Overall, the inherent properties of GNPs along with their geometry led to the production of better-performing rubber compounds that can replace their CB-filled counterparts in applications where flexibility, tear strength and compliance are important. The influence of processing on dispersion, orientation and agglomeration of flakes was also highlighted with respect to the Young's modulus of the NBR compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the polyvinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene P(VDF-HFP) as electroactive polymers (EAPs) has been known to have great potentials in micro electro mechanical systems (MEMs) due to their light weight, low cost, and large electrical field-induced strain. In order to enhance their electromechanical properties, the modified P(VDF-HFP) with various conducting polymers such as polypyrrole (PPy) and carbon black (CB) is considerably required. In this work, the P(VDF-HFP) as matrix was doped with different loading of PPy/CB (< 1 wt%) and the composites films were obtained by using solution casting method. The influence of filler content on the dielectric properties and the conductivity of these thin films was investigated by using LCR meter. The maximum dielectric constant of the P(VDF-HFP)/PPy-CB was 2 times larger than the pure P(VDF-HFP) without conductive fillers. At low frequency, the both dielectric loss and conductivity were found to be slightly increased as consequence of the conducting polymers, but the conductive phase has not been achieved yet. In addition, a complete set of electromechanical properties were systemically explored using the result of strain displacement under the low electric field (< 5 MV/m). During the applied electric field, the average voltage peak-to-peak was attributed to the strain yield of approximately 0.08% at 2 MV/m. These observations indicate that the synergistic effect of conductive fillers induce their electric polarization and it can be considered as one of the promising candidates for actuator applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• OER catalyst NiCoO x @CB was prepared successful through a spray-drying method. • The method is simple, environmentally friendly and easily scaled up. • NiCoO x particles exhibited average size <8 nm, offering numerous active site. • Wrapped structure could prevent active component from agglomerating during OER. • NiCoO x nanoparticles exist as an alloy oxide, promoting interatomic synergies. The search for the simple and convenient design method of a non-precious metal oxygen evolution catalyst is still an emerging strategy today. Usually, nano-alloy oxide can enhance the catalytic activity for large specific surface area and active site, which have been widely studied for the purpose of developing active electrocatalysts for water splitting, while, nanoparticles are fundamentally less stable and prone to substantial size growth in long-term operations. Therefore, a framework of hierarchical porous composite microsphere with NiCoO x nanoparticles wrapped by Carbon Black (NiCoO x @CB) was fabricated successfully through spray-drying in this paper. Benefitting from the porous nanostructure and 0 D nano-alloy oxide active site, a remarkable OER performance with a low overpotential for 241 mV at 10 mA·cm−2 in alkaline media was exhibited. And, from the support of wrapped structure, NiCoO x @CB showed a superior durability with 90 h for nanoparticles were prevented to reunion during the reaction. Also, the heterogeneous interfaces with strong charge transfers between CB and NiCoO x nanoparticles could enhance OER performance (NiCoO x showed 265 mV at 10 mA·cm−2). The proposed method in this paper work provide a facile route to construct the porous composite microsphere with excellent OER electrocatalytic activity based on non-noble metal oxide wrapped by CB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new, facile, and template-free method to prepare high surface area microporous carbon nanocubes (CNCs) from a mixture of graphene oxide nanoribbons (NRs), graphene oxide, and carbon dots is reported. The nanoribbons, approximately 30 nm wide and with lengths ranging from a few tens of nanometres up to several micrometres, were obtained from the oxidation of Black Pearls 2000 carbon black in nitric acid solution. The non-purified nanoribbons further contained additional fragments of graphene oxide, and of graphene oxide quantum dots. Slow pyrolysis of the nanoribbon mixture with slow heating rates, e.g., 3 °C/min, yielded carbon nanocubes approximately 250 nm in size with surface areas greater than 900 m2/g. Heating rates of 50 °C/min led to carbons with ∼800 m2/g surface area but bulk morphology. Precipitating the nanoribbons in potassium hydroxide solution, followed by carbonization, yielded microporous nanoparticle aggregates that were 20 nm in size with surface areas greater than 2000 m2/g. The particles exhibited complex, quasi-spherical morphology. Pyrolysis of other products obtained from oxidation in HNO 3 of different grades of carbon black, specifically graphene oxide nanoparticles and quantum dots, yielded high surface area microporous carbons but with bulk morphology regardless of the processing conditions. Despite the lower surface area and pore volume of the CNCs in comparison to the nanospheres, the former contained ultramicropores that were highly accessible to CO 2 as a molecular probe and had excellent selectivity of CO 2 over N 2. Hence, CNC materials have promising properties for applications where particle surface-to-volume ratios, high internal surface areas, and abundant super and ultramicropores are desired. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Carbon nanoparticle aggregation and coalescence behavior. • Integration of coalescence dynamics into a CCA model. • Thermophoretic sampling is superior to filter sampling. • Experimental morphology and morphology by simulation agreed well. The coalescence behavior of carbon nanoparticle, such as soot and carbon black, has not been so much discussed. This study delves into the intricate behavior of nanoparticle aggregates, with a keen emphasis on the variations in their shape and size based on coalescence dynamics. The coalescence rate obtained from previous experimental results was implemented in an aggregate mean free path cluster–cluster aggregation model. The effect of coalescence on morphology was examined by classifying the aggregates obtained using the cluster–cluster aggregation model in terms of their complexity. We contrasted the results of cluster–cluster aggregation simulation with experimental aggregate shape analyzing electron microscopy images and experimental primary particle size distribution. When neglecting coalescence, proportion of branched-shape aggregates was higher, whereas accounting for coalescence resulted in predominantly ellipsoidal or spherical particles. Contrasting simulations with experimental data reveals that filter-sampling methods may overemphasize aggregate complexity. Contrarily, thermophoretic sampling provided a closer match to simulation predictions. A pivotal finding was that the coalescence model, when coupled with accurate experimental sampling techniques, aligns closely with the experimental observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modifying stainless steel (SS) surfaces with biocompatible materials is a practical approach to making SS an efficient electrode material for microbial electrochemical systems (MESs). However, a simple, cost-effective method to modify large-size SS is still missing. Here, we proposed to use spray coating to modify SS mesh (SSM) with acetylene black (AB) nanoparticles to make SSM an efficient anode material for MESs. The SEM images and Raman spectrum confirmed that AB nanoparticles could be uniformly coated onto the surface of SSM. The AB nanoparticles dramatically increased the specific surface area and biocompatibility of SSM. Consequently, when tested as the anode in MESs, the AB-coated SSM exhibited excellent biofilm formation ability, while the bare SSM saw inferior biofilm formation potential. Moreover, the current density achieved on the AB-coated SSM (1.95 ± 0.1 mA/cm2) was orders of magnitudes higher than that achieved on the bare SSM (0.01 ± 0.01 mA/cm2). Compared to other surface modification methods for SS, spray coating is simple, cost-effective, and most importantly readily for large-size SS electrodes. Therefore, spray coating of carbon nanoparticles holds excellent potential for scaling up SS electrodes for MESs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dose effect of CBNPs exposure to three life stages of mice were observed. • Testicular oxidative stress and inflammation had time/dose-dependent effects. • Testicular damage structurally happened with exposure dose effects. • Sperm qualities functionally decreased with exposure dose effects. Environmental carbon black nanoparticles (CBNPs) can enter into various organs including testes through the respiratory tract. However, there are few studies describing reproductive toxicity of CBNPs after respiratory exposure. In this study, male KM mice were exposed to CBNPs in their natural breathing state. Four-, 8-, and 12-week-old mice were exposed to 0, 9, 18 and 27 mg/m3 of CBNPs for 4 weeks in order to examine the relationship between CBNP exposure and age. Eight-week-old mice were exposed to CBNPs at the same four concentrations for 1–4 weeks in order to examine the effects of CBNP exposure time. After CBNP exposure, testicular oxidative stress and inflammation increased significantly, and these effects varied with exposure time. Seminiferous tubule diameter (STD), seminiferous epithelium height (SEH), the number of spermatogenic and Leydig cells, sperm motility, and sperm speed decreased significantly, and these effects varied with exposure dose. Data analyses suggested that increased oxidative stress and inflammation in testes damaged testicular morphology, spermatogenesis, and testosterone secretion, and decreased sperm quality. Morphological damage to the testes was also closely related to decreased the sperm quantity. These findings are of significance for evaluating the reproductive toxicity of CBNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we developed a simple and effective one-pot method to synthesize the Pd-based bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). By using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) mapping and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the morphologies and compositions of the as-prepared bimetallic NPs were investigated in detail. Furthermore, this approach was also used to achieve the highly dispersive Pd-based bimetallic NPs directly on the carbon black. Significantly, the as-obtained carbon-supported Pd-based bimetallic NPs showed excellent electrocatalytic activity for the methanol oxidation. Among the Pd-based bimetallic NPs and the commercial Pd–C, the PdPt–C displayed the best electrocatalytic activity and stability, which may be mainly attributed to the specific nanostructure and the synergetic effect between Pt and Pd atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiC/Al–Cu nanocomposites were fabricated in Al–Ti–C powder systems using carbon black, a mixture of C and carbon nanotubes (C + CNTs), and CNTs via an in-situ method involving combustion synthesis and hot pressing. As the carbon source changed from pure carbon black to the C + CNT mixture and pure CNTs, the size of the TiC nanoparticles decreased gradually. The nanocomposites synthesized based on the C + CNT mixture exhibited the most uniform dispersion of TiC nanoparticles. The 30 vol% TiC/Al–Cu nanocomposite prepared from the C + CNT mixture had the best comprehensive mechanical properties (yield strength (411 MPa), compressive strength (712 MPa), fracture strain (17.2%), hardness (206.8 HV), and wear resistance under the experimental conditions due to having the most uniformly dispersed TiC nanoparticles. The wear mechanism was a combination of plastic deformation, abrasion, and adhesion. This method may be a low-cost and convenient means to control the sizes of in-situ TiC nanoparticles and prepare high-performance TiC/Al–Cu nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid nanocomposites of high‐density polyethylene have been prepared via the melt‐mixing method in the presence of different amounts of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and conductive carbon black (CB). The electrical conductivity, positive temperature coefficient (PTC), and the correlation between crystallinity and electrical conductivity of hybrid nanocomposites are investigated to study the effect of crystallinity on electrical conductivity. The samples are characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and electrical resistivity. SEM micrographs reveal good distribution of CB and GNPs in nanocomposites. According to DSC and XRD results, the crystallinity of samples decreases by the addition of CB and GNP. The electrical conductivity of all the samples increases, whereas in the sample 16% of CB and 1% of GNP electrical conductivity decrease due to GNP acting as a heterogeneous nucleating agent and the numerous incomplete and small crystals formation. The highest electrical conductivity (1.46×10−4 S cm−1) is obtained in the sample high‐density polyethylene (HDPE)/CB18/GNP1, which shows high increment in the PTC curve in the range of 105−120 °C. Also, repeatability and reversibility of PTC in this sample show good potential for use in different applications such as thermistors, temperature sensors, and self‐regulating heaters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, mechanical properties of poly lactic acid (PLA)-based nanocomposites were investigated. The nanocomposites were fabricated by adding of three types of nano-materials including multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), carbon black (CB) nanoparticles and graphene nano-platelets (GnPs) in four levels from 0 to 3 wt.% to PLA matrix by an internal mixer. Tensile and impact tests were performed to obtain the mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Moreover, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was used to observe the state of nano-fillers dispersion. The FESEM images showed that CB nanoparticles and MWCNT are well distributed in the matrix, but that GnPs are agglomerated. The results of the tensile tests showed that the addition of MWCNT and CB nanoparticles increased the tensile strength by 36% and 76% and the elastic modulus by 10% and 68%, respectively. Also, the presence of all three types of carbon fillers at low loading increased the elongation at break of PLA matrix, and this increase was more significant for GnPs by 55% in the 1 wt.% loading. Finally, the PLA polymer become more brittle with the addition of nanotubes and nano-platelets, and its impact strength was reduced. While, the CB nanoparticles increased the absorbing energy and impact strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoO 3 is passionately examined as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), because of its exclusive interest due to high theoretical capacity (1117 mAhg−1). This article reports the synthesis of MoO 3 nanoparticles by a simple solution combustion method using tamarind seed powder as a novel fuel where it produces in situ excess carbon by which it can eliminate the addition of acetylene black during the preparation of electrodes for LIB as a conducting material. The prepared MoO 3 nanoparticles were characterized by XRD for structural analysis, vibrational bonding's through FTIR, CHN elemental analysis, BET for pore size distribution and specific surface area, morphology by SEM and TEM. Presence of carbon content in MoO 3 nanoparticles show an excellent electrochemical performance by showing initial discharge capacity of 1171 mAhg−1 and stabilized to 162 mAhg−1 after 200 cycles and Columbic efficiency close to 100%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhanced electrochemical performance of graphite electrodes can be achieved by incorporation of catalytic nanoparticles. One promising method for incorporation is in-situ radiation-synthesis where the radiolysis of water is used to drive the process of particle formation on carbon black. A potential problem is the direct reaction between radiolysis products and carbon black. In this work the reactivities of radiolytically produced HO·, (CH 3) 2 C·OH, e- aq and H 2 O 2 towards carbon black were investigated at room temperature with a dose rate 0.124 Gy s−1. HO· was found to react with carbon black with a rate constant of 20 ± 5 m s−1. For (CH 3) 2 C·OH the corresponding value is 0.8 ± 0.1 m s−1. The reactivity of e- aq towards carbon black is negligible compared to that of (CH 3) 2 C·OH. At concentrations <0.05 mmol L−1, H 2 O 2 can react with carbon black with a rate constant of (6.7 ± 0.4) × 10−10 m s−1 mainly due to adsorption. At higher H 2 O 2 concentrations catalytic decomposition producing HO· is also observed. It was also observed that the presence of carbon black increases the radiolytic formation of H 2 O 2. In addition, the impact of carbon black reactivity on the radiation-synthesis of nanoparticles is discussed with an example from the literature. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination effect of co-exposed different types of nanomaterials is little known although humans are generally exposed to a mixture of nanomaterials from urban ultrafine particles or industrial nanomaterials. Herein, we evaluated the combined effect of nanoparticles (NPs) using three types of NPs in different inflammogenic categories: carbon black (CB), nickel oxide (NiO), and copper oxide (CuO). A single type of NPs or NPs in combination was intratracheally instilled into the lungs of rats and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was analyzed at 24 h after instillation to evaluate the acute inflammogenic potential. The percentage of neutrophils in BALF was selected as a toxicity endpoint and the potential for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, dose–response of the combined effect, sequential treatment of CB and NiO, and uptake of NiO to alveolar macrophages after combined treatment of CB and NiO were evaluated for the mechanism of the combined effect. Co-exposure of CuO and NiO showed an additive effect on the percentage of neutrophils and ROS generation potential, which implies that the physicochemical properties of each NP are not influenced by the other type. While CB exerted an antagonistic effect on the percentage of neutrophils in combined treatment with CuO or NiO. The antagonistic effect of CB was due to the scavenging activity of the ROS generated by the CuO and NiO rather than the competition in cellular uptake to target cells (i.e. alveolar macrophages), which highlight the importance of the combined effect of NPs in the risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastomers used in everyday life are always reinforced with rigid nanoparticles (carbon black or silica). The addition of rigid nanoparticles to an elastomer gives it very specific viscoelastic properties. In this article, we discuss the current understanding of mechanical properties of a polymer matrix around its glass transition, focusing on the situation of polymers confined between two rigid surfaces with a nanometric gap. Then, we will explain how the properties of the matrix can help to understand the properties of filled or reinforced elastomers. We will then explain that in reinforced rubbers, the mechanical properties are dominated by stress propagation between neighboring aggregates through a nanometric polymer gap, thus by confined polymer bridges.We will discuss how knowledge of the dynamics of confined polymers allows us to understand the temperature dependence, the pressure dependence and the non-linearities observed for strain below 0.1 of reinforced elastomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ni 2 VO 4 and Ni 2 V 4 O/AB composite are prepared for the first time. • Ni 2 VO 4 and Ni 2 V 4 O/AB composite is initially used as an anode for LIBs. • The size of Ni 2 VO 4 nanoparticles is ultrasmall. • High capacity of 511 mA h g−1 after 350 cycles is achieved at 1 A g−1. Spinel nickel vanadate has not been synthesized and applied to anode for lithium-ion batteries on account of the missing synthetic route. In the study, a simple route is created to obtain a new spinel Ni 2 VO 4 /acetylene black composite. The obtained Ni 2 VO 4 nanoparticles are ultrasmall and anchored on acetylene black, which could markedly mitigate the volume alteration and elevate electrochemical reaction kinetics. For this reason, a large reversible capacity of 511 mAh/g was maintained at 350th cycle under 1 A g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incorporation of carbon-based nanoparticles into ceramic coatings during plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is promising for the synthesis of new composite layers on lightweight metals. Specifically, the present study focuses on the incorporation of carbon black (CB) nanoparticles into PEO alumina layers. For this purpose, PEO of aluminium is performed in silicate-based electrolytes containing various concentrations of dispersed carbon black nanoparticles (from 0 to 6 g·L−1). The influence of this concentration on the microstructure of the achieved PEO coatings is investigated by combining complementary characterization techniques (scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy). Results show that using concentrations up to 6 g·L−1 tend to limit the morphological inhomogeneity between the edges and the centre of the treated samples. Moreover, the addition of carbon black nanoparticles results in a sponge-like outermost sublayer covering larger areas of the surface with abilities to host a higher amount of these nanoparticles. It is also evidenced that CB nanoparticles do not suffer any further structural degradation during their incorporation. In addition, cross-checked results show that the presence of dispersed CB nanoparticles slightly affect the coating average growth rate. As for potential future applications, the electrical volume conductivity of grown carbon-alumina composite coatings is also measured. • Carbon black nanoparticles are incorporated in the porous outer sublayer. • Carbon black nanoparticles do not undergo any structural alteration during PEO. • Carbon black nanoparticles slightly increase the average growth rate. • Carbon black improve the coating homogeneity over the treated surface. • Carbon black do not affect the phase proportion of the PEO oxide coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Arc to soft PEO regime transition depends on the nanoparticle concentration in the electrolyte. • Transition to PEO soft regime occurs earlier as the carbon black concentration increases. • A too high concentration in carbon black is detrimental to the PEO coating morphology. The effect of dispersed carbon black nanoparticles in the electrolyte on the plasma electrolytic oxidation of aluminium under soft sparking regime is investigated. Increasing the concentration of particles reduces the breakdown voltage. It also makes the transition to soft sparking to occur earlier, which can favour a more homogeneous coating. However, it is shown that a too high concentration of particles can be detrimental to the coating morphology despite an apparent soft sparking regime characterized by a decrease in anodic voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The La 1.7 Sr 0.3 CuO 4 and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3 materials have nanoscale particle sizes in the range of 47.80 and 65.05 nm respectively. • The modified electrodes showed excellent response and sensitivity for glucose molecule detection with a wide linear range from 0.1 M to 0.1 nM for La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3 and from 0.1 M to 0.001 nM for La 1.7 Sr 0.3 CuO 4. • The La 1.7 Sr 0.3 CuO 4 and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3 materials have high sensitivities of 876.3, and 614.7 µA.mM−1.cm−2 and low detection limits of 0.0194 nM and 0.972 nM respectively. Non-enzymatic developed biosensors, especially with noble nanoparticles received tremendous attention in the field of glucose molecule sensing. Herein low-cost, highly sensitive, and more effective nano-sized materials such as La 1,7 Sr 0,3 CuO 4 and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3 were synthesized by a simple citrate method, and modified with black carbon in purpose to use as electrodes for the simultaneous detection of glucose. The crystallite size, refinement, purity, shape, and morphology of nanomaterials were characterized using X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy techniques. Cyclic voltammetry, Differential Potential Voltammetry, Square Wave Voltammetry, and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy techniques were used as investigative techniques. The modified electrodes showed excellent response and sensitivity for glucose molecule detection compared with previous literature, with a wide linear range from 0.1 M to 0.1 nM for La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3 and 0.1 M to 0.001 nM for La 1,7 Sr 0,3 CuO 4 , high sensitivities of 614.7 and 876.3 µA.mM−1.cm−2 and low detection limits of 0.972 nM and 0.0194 nM respectively. The performance of electrodes was checked by using real samples like synthetic urine and human blood. Both of the modified electrodes demonstrated satisfactory and reproducible results in real samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D printing plays an important role in Industry 4.0 and has versatility to use different materials, including thermoplastic polymers. Polylactic acid (PLA), a bio‐based biodegradable polymer, is used as a potential replacement for petroleum‐based polymers in several applications, and is one of the most popular polymers used in 3D printing. Inorganic/organic nanoparticles can be incorporated in polymers to improve various properties such as thermal, mechanical, and tribological. This work investigates the effect of adding carbon black (CB) and alumina (ALM) nanofillers on the thermal, mechanical, and tribological properties of 3D printed PLA nanocomposites for tribological applications. Both nanofillers promoted progressive enhancement of thermal stability according to TGA. The improvement in the interaction between nanofillers and PLA matrix is revealed by an increase in viscosity of the nanocomposites. The nanocomposites containing 25%wt ALM and 75wt% CB presented better mechanical and wear properties, suggesting synergism between nanofillers and that CB may act as a compatibilizer between PLA and ALM. These results enable selecting the most suitable composition of nanofillers to be added to PLA to create filaments with better tribological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pregnancy exposure to CBNPs caused significant changes on maternal behaviors. • Pregnancy exposure to CBNPs induced neurobehavioral deficits in offspring. • Pregnancy CBNPs exposure significantly decreased the m6A modification in cortex. • Pregnancy exposure to CBNPs induced cortex injuries in F1 but not F2 generation. Increasing occupational and accidental exposure to carbon black nanoparticles (CBNPs) raise concerns over their possible effects on the nervous system. However, the influences of CBNPs on the neurodevelopment remain unclear. Thus, in this study, pregnant mice were exposed to different doses of CBNPs by intranasal instillation on gestation days 9–18. Our results demonstrated that maternal exposure to CBNPs caused significant changes on maternal behaviors. Pregnancy exposure to CBNPs also delayed the onset of incisor eruption, testes descent and vaginal opening in offspring, and caused the reduced body weight until adulthood. In the neurobehavioral tests, CBNPs-exposed offspring exhibited the elevated latency of negative geotaxis and surface right reflex, reduced grasping time and increased cliff avoidance. Histopathological changes were present in F1 generation but not in F2 generation. Intriguingly, our data revealed that the levels of total m6A modification were significantly decreased by CBNPs. Similar trends were observed on the mRNA expressions of m6A methyltransferases and demethylases. In summary, these findings provide the novel evidence that pregnancy exposure to CBNPs affects the maternal behaviors and partially induces the neurobehavioral, muscular and histopathological changes in offspring. Of note, these adverse effects may be associated with reduced levels of total m6A modification in brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two-step decoration of the Ag nanoparticles supported on carbon black (Ag/C) with Au and Pt, the electrooxidation of glycerol on the Pt/Au/Ag/C catalysts in alkaline solution, and the effect of the amounts of Au and Pt on the catalytic activity of Pt/Au/Ag/C are investigated. The decoration of Ag/C is performed by electrochemically depositing a small amount of Au and then Pt on Ag/C, and the Pt x /Au y /Ag 100 /C catalysts with different x : y :100 ratios (0.15 ≤ x ≤ 1.9 and 0.2 ≤ y ≤ 1.5) are obtained. Physical and electrochemical characterizations reveal that small parts of the Ag surfaces are covered by the deposited Au and Pt. Pt x /Au y /Ag 100 /C mainly shows Pt-relevant behaviors in glycerol oxidation, and Pt 1.3 /Au y /Ag 100 /C exhibits high catalytic activities. The results reveal that the surface decoration is a useful method of fabricating efficient ternary catalysts at low cost. • Pt/Au/Ag/C is prepared by decorating Ag/C with small amounts of Au and Pt. • Activity of Pt/Au/Ag/C depends on the decoration sequence and masses of Au and Pt. • Pt 1.3 /Au y /Ag 100 /C (y ≤ 1.5) shows high catalytic activity for glycerol oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]