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Orthoses and prostheses were Chosen and laminated based on their high Yield, ultimate stresses, bending stresses, and fatigue limit. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was utilized to find the best values for two parameters reinforcement perlon fiber and percent of Titanium Nanoparticle coupled with the matrix resin during optimization. The response surface methodology combined the expertise of mathematicians and statisticians to construct and analyze experimental models. Using this method, we identified 13 different lamination samples comprising a wide range of perlon number and Ti nano Wt% in their Perlon layer composition. All lamination materials defined by RSM methods and produced by a vacuum system were subjected to a battery of tests, with fatigue tests performed on the ideal laminating material in contrast to laminations created in the first study (Tensile test, Bending test, and Fatigue tests according to the ASTM D638 and D790 respectively). In comparison to the other 12 laminations tested using Design Expert version 10.0.2, the lamination with ten perlon layers and 0.75 percent Ti nano proved to be the strongest overall in terms of Yield, ultimate, and bending loads. This study used composite materials and titanium nanoparticles to characterize and fabricate ankle foot orthoses. Strength in bending should amount to about 70 MPa, around 85 MPa in tensile tension. Two empirical quadratic equations for the models of peak bending strength and maximum tensile stress with 95% confidence were created using the response surface approach and analysis of variance within the design of experiments software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wickless heat pipe heat exchangers has been improving a wide range of thermal applications such as solar water heaters. Therefore, more scientific research needs to be conducted to improve its performance. In the present study, a wickless heat pipe heat exchanger test rig has been designed and fabricated to investigate the effect of different parameters on its performance. Two different heat pipe working fluids have been used namely pure water and water with nanoparticles (Al2O3) using different fluid volume ratios (20%,40%,60%,80%, and 100%). The concentrations of the nanoparticles in water range between 1.3 and 7 % wt. For the heat exchanger, various inlet hot air temperatures (50, 55, and 60 ℃) have been tested at the hot side (heat pipe evaporator) whereas the inlet temperature of the cold side (heat pipe condenser) has been maintained at 20 ℃. The effect of airflow Reynolds number has also been examined with a range of 2583-20664. Results showed that the best heat exchanger effectiveness is achieved at a Reynolds number of 10332 and nanoparticles concentration of 7% wt. Also, the use of nanoparticles reduced the thermal resistance in the heat pipe due to the significant reduction in its surface temperature compared to that of pure water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials have been used in catalytic degradation of organic pollutants also act as catalysts in for many years. Due to excellent catalytic performances of metal-based nanoparticles, these materials have been used extensively in various hybrid catalyst synthesis. The main subject of this study, heterogeneous catalysis is a low cost and multi-purpose process for many pollutants. Catalytic degradation of organic pollutants such as; 2-nitrophenol, quinolin yellow and rhodamine B was investigated by using Ni, Co, Pd nanoparticles modified SiO2 based nanomaterials. The co-doping effect on the prepared nanomaterials has been investigated with different characterization methods in terms of structural and morphological features: scanning electron microscopy, UV/vis absorption spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and foruier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The highest catalytic reduction efficiencies (97.6% and 97.5%) for 2-nitrophenol and rhodamine B was obtained by Pd-PEG-AP@SiO2 respectively. The synthesized Co-PEG-AP@SiO2 illustrated higher catalytic reduction efficiency for quinolin yellow (70.1%) at the end of 60s. The prepared M-PEG-AP@SiO2 nanomaterial (M: Pd,Co,Ni) can be able to utilized degradation of organic contaminants effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric nanomaterials, nanogels, and solid nanoparticles can be fabricated using single or double emulsion methods. These materials hold great promise for various biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and their ability to control interactions with body fluids and cells. Despite the increasing use of nanoparticles in biomedicine and the plethora of publications on the topic, the biological behavior and efficacy of polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) have not been as extensively studied as those of other nanoparticles. The gap between the potential of PNPs and their applications can mainly be attributed to the incomplete understanding of their biological identity. Under physiological conditions, such as specific temperatures and adequate protein concentrations, PNPs become coated with a "protein corona" (PC), rendering them potent tools for proteomics studies. In this review, we initially investigate the synthesis routes and chemical composition of conventional PNPs to better comprehend how they interact with proteins. Subsequently, we comprehensively explore the effects of material and biological parameters on the interactions between nanoparticles and proteins, encompassing reactions such as hydrophobic bonding and electrostatic interactions. Moreover, we delve into recent advances in PNP-based models that can be applied to nanoproteomics, discussing the new opportunities they offer for the clinical translation of nanoparticles and early prediction of diseases. By addressing these essential aspects, we aim to shed light on the potential of polymeric nanoparticles for biomedical applications and foster further research in this critical area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noble-metal-based surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates can be employed as catalysts capable of generating hot electrons to drive chemical reactions of target molecules adsorbed on their surface. However, the localized surface plasmons excited from pure noble metals generally exhibit relatively low hot-electron utilization efficiency with the reactants owing to charge carrier recombination. This problem can be solved by integrating heterogeneous structures with the noble metal. Herein, we describe the fabrication of bifunctional SERS substrates by constructing Au@Ag, Au@Ag2S, and Au@SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles and evaluate the effects of the three heterostructures (Au cores encapsulated by shells composed of metal, semiconductor, or insulator) on the hot-electron transfer efficiency by in situ monitoring of the catalytic dimerization of p-nitrophenol to form p,p′-dimercaptoazobenzene under 632.8 nm laser illumination. The developed SERS strategy opens up new opportunities for exploring hot-electron-induced reactions as well as providing a useful reference for photocatalyst selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation presents the greener biomimetic fabrication of neodymium selenide nanoparticles (Nd2Se3 NPs) deploying nitrate-dependent reductase as a reducing (or redox) agent, extracted from the fungus, Fusarium oxysporum. The Nd2Se3 NPs, with an average size of 18 ± 1 nm, were fabricated with the assistance of a synthetic peptide comprising an amino acid sequence (Glu-Cys)n-Gly, which functioned as a capping molecule. Further, the NPs were characterized using multiple techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and XRD. The hydrodynamic radii of biogenic polydispersed Nd2Se3 NPs were found to be 57 nm with PDI value of 0.440 under DLS. The as-made Nd2Se3NPs were water-dispersible owing to the existence of hydrophilic moieties (-NH2, -COOH, -OH) in the capping peptide. Additionally, these functionalities render the emulsion highly stable (zeta potential −9.47 mV) with no visible sign of agglomeration which bodes well for their excellent future prospects in labeling and bioimaging endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In the present work, cobalt-chromite-based pigment Co1-xNixCr2O4 chromate powder and nanoparticles with various transition metal concentrations (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8) were manufactured by applying aqueous synthesis approaches and sol-gel synthesis routes. XRD analysis of the powder shows that all samples formulated by the sol-gel method were crystalline with a spinel structure. Chromites show green color with a higher nickel concentration, while Co-substituent shows blackish pigments. Samples were annealed at distinct temperatures ranging from 600 °C to 750 °C. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy (RS), photoluminescence (PL), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The particle size of the parent compound (CoCr2O4) ranges from 100 nm to 500 nm, as measured by SEM. The tendency of particles to form aggregates with increasing annealing temperature was observed. These compounds may be successfully used as an effective doped nickel-cobalt ceramic pigment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver oxide Nanoparticles (SO-NP) exhibit excellent light absorbing, semi conducting properties and hence are employed in a wide range of applications such as catalyst, biosensors, and in fuel cells. Green synthesis of nanoparticles using different microorganisms is widely accepted since this method is in expensive and eco-friendly. Nanoparticles synthesized by this route are smaller in size, highly stable, show high reactivity and stability. In this context, biofabrication of Silver Oxide Nanoparticles (SO-NP) by autolysate of Pseudomonas mendocina PM1 has been evaluated. Synthesis of SO-NP was observed, when autolysate of P. mendocina PM1 was incubated with 0.5 mM AgNO3 in dark for 24 h. Synthesis of SO-NP was confirmed by UV-Vis analysis. SO-NP was further confirmed by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) which confirmed presence of SO-NP. XRD revealed that SO-NP were of the type Ag3O4. FTIR analysis indicated that peptides were involved in the reduction and stability of SO-NP. SO-NP's showed potent anti-microbial/anti-biofilm activity against common pathogenic/non-pathogenic bacteria. This is the first report of synthesis of SO-NP by P. mendocina PM1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pulsed laser deposited YBa2Cu3O7-x thin films containing 5mol. % Ba2YNbO6 pinning additions, we show that a growth rate of 1 nm/s (10 Hz laser repetition rate with an instant rate ~0.1 nm/pulse) gives remarkably strong c-axis correlated pinning which is associated with the presence of Ba2YNbO6 nanocolumns. This is different to the behaviour of other well-studied pinning additions where only random nanoparticles of the pinning phase are present at high growth rates and is an important finding for industrial fabrication of coated conductors where fast growth is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of reference standards for nanoparticle sizing allows for cross laboratory studies and effective transfer of particle sizing methodology. To facilitate this, these reference standards must be stable upon long-term storage. Here, we examine factors that influence the properties of cross-linked albumin nanoparticles, fabricated with an ethanol desolvation method, when reconstituted from a lyophilized state. We demonstrate, with nanoparticle tracking analysis, no significant changes in mean particle diameter upon reconstitution of albumin nanoparticles fabricated with bovine serum albumin loaded with dodecanoic acid, when compared to nanoparticles fabricated with a fatty acid-free BSA. We attribute this stability to the modulation of nanoparticle charge-charge interactions at dodecanoic acid specific binding locations. Furthermore, we demonstrate this in a lyophilized state over six months when stored at − 80 °C. We also show that the reconstitution process is readily transferable between technicians and laboratories and further confirm our finding with dynamic light scattering analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a novel magnetic composite consisting metal-organic framework was fabricated and applied as a sorbent for selenite ions removal (Se (IV)) from water samples. The sorbent made from a metal-organic framework (MIL-101(Cr)) as a selective receptor and modified magnetite nanoparticles@amino dithiocarbamate (MNPs@ADTC) as the magnetic core. Se (IV) ions were selectively absorbed into MIL- 101(Cr)/MNPs@ADTC at lower pH (1.85), while Se (VI) ions remained in the initial solution. Optimization of the parameters that affect the removal efficiency was carried out by experimental design method. Three parameters such as adsorption time, MIL-101(Cr)/MNPs@ADTC dosage, and sample pH were considered as affecting factors and the optimum value for these factors was as following: pH, 1.85; adsorption time, 14.0 min; and (c) MIL-101(Cr)/MNPs@ADTC dosage, 16.0 mg. Afterwards, the equilibrium sorption data were studied using Langmuir and Freundlich models. The mechanism for adsorption of Se (VI) ions onto MIL-101(Cr)/MNPs@ADTC was found to follow Langmuir models. Accordingly, maximum adsorption capacity and Langmuir constant were 222 mg g-1 and 0.41 L mg-1, respectively. Finally, adsorption kinetic was evaluated by use pseudo first/second order models and the obtained data revealing a pseudo second order model based on the correlation coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-performance piezoelectric nano-ceramic was fabricated through stereolithography of low viscosity and high solid loading ceramic/polymer composite suspensions. Through the proper fitting calculation of experimental data, the maximum theoretical solid loading, rheological and curing behaviors of the suspension system were evaluated and lucubrated. The suspensions with a 40 vol% solid loading of the BaTiO 3 nanoparticles displayed shear thinning behavior and a relatively low viscosity of 232 mPa·s at 46.5 s−1 shear rate. After post-process, the 3D printed ceramic specimens showed a nanometer-level grain size with a density of 5.69 g/cm3, which corresponds to about 95% of the theoretical density. The printed ceramics exhibit a piezoelectric constant of 163 pC/N and relative permittivity of 2762 respectively. The results achieved in this research indicate that the stereolithography process is a promising 3D printing technology to fabricate piezoelectric materials with complex geometries and exquisite features for the applications of ceramic components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the effect of adding clay Nanoparticles on increasing the lifetime of glass/ epoxy composites under hydrothermal conditions has been investigated. For this purpose, samples containing 3 Vol.% of clay Nanoparticles and samples without clay Nanoparticles in resin epoxy has been manufactured for the fabrication of specimens of the tensile test using hand lay-up and vacuum bag. The specimens were placed under the hydrothermal condition of 90% humidity and 75 °C temperature for 500 hours in the incubator and were tested for tensile properties. The results show that addition of clay Nanoparticles decreases the strength of the composite by 21.39% in the newly produced samples while in a long time, these particles slow down the process of composite degradation, so that in the same environmental conditions, the strength of specimens containing clay Nanoparticles is 9% higher than the specimens without clay Nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octahedral-shaped Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized in the presence of 1,3-diaminopropane using a hydrothermal method and assessed as a potential magnetorheological (MR) material. Their morphology, crystal structure, and magnetic properties were examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and vibrating sample magnetometry, respectively. The MR characteristics of the octahedral-shaped, Fe3O4 nanoparticle-based MR particles when dispersed in silicone oil with a 10 vol.% particle concentration were examined using a rotational rheometer under an external magnetic field. The resulting MR fluids exhibited a Binghamlike behavior with a distinctive yield stress from their flow curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-step and all-colloidal deposition method to fabricate yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)-inverse photonic glasses with 3 μm pores was developed. The process is based on electrostatic attraction and repulsion in suspension, controlled by surface charge of polystyrene (PS) microspheres and YSZ nanoparticles, used as pore templates and matrix material, respectively. The pH was used as a tool to change surface charges and particle-particle interactions. Photonic glass films with 3 μm pores yielded broadband omnidirectional reflection over the wavelengths of 1–5 μm, relevant for thermal radiation at temperatures around 1200 °C. These highly porous materials maintained their structural stability and reflectance after being annealed at 1200 °C for 120 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, tetragonal WO3 colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by pulsed laser ablation in liquid of tungsten target in de-ionized water, followed by adding a PdCl2 solution immediately after the ablation process or hours after aging. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the surface chemical composition is a mixture of W5+, W6+, and O–H groups for which a defective WO2.8 surface composition was calculated. Transmission electron microscope images showed that only when PdCl2 is added immediately, Pd/WO3 core-shell NPs are formed spontaneously. UV-Vis spectrophotometry showed an increase in the optical bandgap due to NPs oxidation throughout the aging period. Thus, the spontaneous formation of the Pd/WO3 core-shell NPs was attributed to the presence of surface oxygen defects in newly formed NPs. With hydrogen exposure (<10%), Pd/WO3 solutions turned blue, indicating a gasochromic coloration ability which was used to detect different hydrogen concentrations below 10%. The dynamic response to different hydrogen concentrations was also studied at 630 nm constant wavelength. The results revealed that Pd/WO3 NPs obtained by the pristine WO3 colloidal solution show a better gasochromic performance, in both the coloration and response time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we describe a very fast and flexible method for fabrication of plasmon-supporting substrates with micro-patterning capability, which is optimized for plasmonic sensing. We combined a wet chemistry approach to synthesize metallic nanoparticles with a piezo-dispensing system enabling deposition of nanoparticles on the substrates with micrometer precision. In this way, an arbitrary pattern consisting of 200 μm small spots containing plasmonic nanostructures can be produced. Patterns with various nanoparticles exhibiting different plasmonic properties were combined, and the surface density of the particles could be easily varied via their solution concentrations. We showed that under controlled conditions the dispensing process caused no aggregation of the particles and it enabled full transfer of the colloidal solutions onto the substrate. This is an important condition, which enables these substrates to be used for reliable plasmonic sensing based on monitoring the spectral shift of the nanoparticles. We demonstrated the functionality of such substrates by detection of small protein adsorption on the spots based on plasmon label-free sensing method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ag nanoparticles decorated Polyaniline (PANI)/graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) composite was fabricated as active electrode materials for supercapacitors via an in-situ oxidative polymerization. Morphology and structure of Ag/PANI/g-C 3 N 4 composite were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The supercapacitive behavior of the electrode material was tested in a three electrode system using 1.0 M H 2 SO 4 electrolyte. The results indicated that the Ag/PANI/g-C 3 N 4 composite delivered a high specific capacitance of 797.8 F g−1 and an excellent capacitance retention of 84.43% after 1000 cycles at an applied current density of 1 A g−1. Ragone plot was derived and compared which showed enhanced supercapacitive performance of Ag/PANI/g-C3N4. The composite should be ideal potential electrode materials for high-performance and effective supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract It has been more than two decades since the discovery of nanofluids-mixtures of common liquids and solid nanoparticles less than 100 nm in size. As a type of colloidal suspension, nanofluids are typically employed as heat transfer fluids due to their favorable thermal and fluid properties. There have been numerous numerical studies of nanofluids in recent years (more than 1000 in both 2016 and 2017, based on Scopus statistics). Due to the small size and large numbers of nanoparticles that interact with the surrounding fluid in nanofluid flows, it has been a major challenge to capture both the macro-scale and the nano-scale effects of these systems without incurring extraordinarily high computational costs. To help understand the state of the art in modeling nanofluids and to discuss the challenges that remain in this field, the present article reviews the latest developments in modeling of nanofluid flows and heat transfer with an emphasis on 3D simulations. In part I, a brief overview of nanofluids (fabrication, applications, and their achievable thermo-physical properties) will be presented first. Next, various forces that exist in particulate flows such as drag, lift (Magnus and Saffman), Brownian, thermophoretic, van der Waals, and electrostatic double layer forces and their significance in nanofluid flows are discussed. Afterwards, the main models used to calculate the thermophysical properties of nanofluids are reviewed. This will be followed with the description of the main physical models presented for nanofluid flows and heat transfer, from single-phase to Eulerian and Lagrangian two-phase models. In part II, various computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques will be presented. Next, the latest studies on 3D simulation of nanofluid flow in various regimes and configurations are reviewed. The present review is expected to be helpful for researchers working on numerical simulation of nanofluids and also for scholars who work on experimental aspects of nanofluids to understand the underlying physical phenomena occurring during their experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metal/polymer composite microstructure radiator based on the microstructure radiator, has the advantages of small radiating volume, high thermal efficiency, low processing cost, which has a huge market potential in microelectronics, such as LED and high speed microprocessor. In this paper, firstly, the heat transfer process of microstructure heat exchanger was studied using finite element analysis. Then, the metal/polymer composite microstructure heat exchanger was formed using micro-embossing technology, and the influence of pressure applied to the mold on the molding microstructures was explored. Finally, thermal performance testing of the microstructure heat exchanger was conducted. Experimental results showed that, when the slot width was 0.5 mm, with the increase of molding pressure, the aspect ratio of microstructure formed by micro-embossing increased. When the pressure was 2.5 MPa, the aspect ratio was 0.24, however, as the pressure increased to 5 MPa, the aspect ratio rose to 1.26. With the increase of aspect ratio of microstructure, the heat transfer performance of the heat exchanger improved. The thermal performance of cross groove composite microstructure heat exchanger (87 °C) was better than the rectangular groove composite microstructure heat exchanger (90.3 °C). The Experimental conclusions were consistent with the simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite their high potential, steel composites with high Al 2 O 3 particle contents continue to face challenges primarily due to difficulties in densification and particle-matrix interface adhesion. Therefore, this research investigates the powder metallurgy fabrication and characterisation of 50 wt% SS316L – 50 wt% Al 2 O 3 as potential candidate for wear applications. The composites are shown to predominantly wear by micro-cutting, resulting in slow wear. The best composites exhibited 7.2 times lower wear rate compared to unreinforced steel. Beside the hardness and the toughness, the remaining porosity plays a major role in the wear behaviour. It can be concluded that good dispersion using mechanical alloying as well as improved compaction and sintering can produce highly wear resistant steel composites with high alumina particle contents. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • 50 wt% alumina - 50 wt% SS316 composites are successfully fabricated. • The composites wear primarily by micro-cutting resulting in high wear resistance. • The composites showed 86% decrease in wear rate compared to commercial SS316 stainless steel. • Beside the hardness and the toughness, the porosity plays a major role in the wear behaviour. • Good densification produces wear resistant Al 2 O 3 -steel composites with high ceramic contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Highly-hydrophobic Cu-NPs coated sponge was one-step fabricated without any modification. • The dynamic Cu-NPs coating provides sponge an excellent renewability. • The coated sponge exhibits high open-pore structure and great mechanical property. • The coated sponge shows excellent striking absorption capacities and separation efficiencies. • The coated sponge can be used for oil/water separation at static and dynamic states. Abstract Due to the high porosity and excellent absorption capacity, three-dimensional network bulk materials with hydrophobicity for clean-up oil-spill and organic solvents discharge have attracted significant interest and attention. Herein, this work presents a facile and low-cost method to fabricate highly-hydrophobic, mechanically flexible and dynamic copper nanoparticles coated commercial melamine sponge (Cu-NPs/MS) via one-step process without any hydrophobic modification. The as-prepared Cu-NPs/MS possesses high-hydrophobicity/superoleophilicity, high open-pore structure and great mechanical property which can be used for removal oil/solvents from water. The Cu-NPs/MS absorbent shows striking absorption capacities (60–145 g/g) at static state and admirable separation efficiencies (96.4–98.6%) as oil-collecting device under the pump driven at dynamic state. Moreover, the renewability of Cu-NPs/MS can be achieved via dissolving polluted and destroyed Cu-NPs coating, and redepositing dynamic Cu-NPs coating. This report shows high-performance Cu-NPs/MS absorbent is a promising practical application in clean-up oil-spill and pollution remediation. Graphical abstract A novel highly-hydrophobic copper nanoparticles coated melamine sponge (Cu-NPs/MS) was directly fabricated via facile one-step process. The dynamic Cu-NPs coating was deposited on the skeleton surface of the MS by the reduction of copper acetate by hydrazine hydrate. The obtained hydrophobic Cu-NPs/MS exhibits excellent renewability, mechanical flexibility and oil/water separation performance. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this research, we designed a rod-like shaped MnO 2 /Fe binary composite by loading magnetic Fe nanoparticles on MnO 2 rods. The co-existence of MnO 2 and Fe shows balanced impedance match and dual magnetic-dielectric loss ability. When MnO 2 /Fe sample presenting rod-like shape, the dielectric loss ability can be further boosted, owing to the formation of conductive network. After tuning weight ratio of Fe in a suitable value, the minimum reflection loss value (RL min) can up to 35.0 dB with a matched thickness of 1.5 mm. Meanwhile, the effective frequency absorption region (f E) covers 5.6 GHz. To better understand the electromagnetic attenuation mechanism, the effects of components, microstructure as well as weight ratios on the electromagnetic absorption properties have been discussed in depth. Highlights • Magnetic Fe nanoparticles are applied to decorate MnO 2 rods. • The weight ratio of Fe and MnO2 is tunable. • f E value can up to 5.6 GHz with a thickness of 1.5 mm. • The electromagnetic absorption mechanism is well discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A dual functional sensor for detecting both UV light and H 2 S gas was fabricated using the hexagonal phase porous In 2 O 3 nanoparticles, which were prepared using the hydrothermal and calcination process. The porous In 2 O 3 nanoparticles with large surface areas and pore volumes could provide plenty of active sites to produce much active oxygen species, which were beneficial for the UV light and H 2 S gas sensing reactions, thus resulting in a good sensing performance. At room temperature, the dual functional sensor based on porous In 2 O 3 nanoparticles exhibited ultra-high responses for sensing both UV light (with a wavelength of 365 nm) and H 2 S gas. As a UV sensor, its response was 12886.0 for a UV power intensity of 1.287 mW/cm2 and its detection limit was 0.013 mW/cm2. As a H 2 S gas sensor, the sensor exhibited an ultra-high response (26268.5–1 ppm H 2 S) and a very low detection limit (1 ppb of H 2 S), and it also have excellent selectivity, reversibility and stability. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Porous In 2 O 3 nanoparticles with large surface areas and pore volume were prepared. • Dual-function sensor was fabricated using these porous In 2 O 3 to detect UV and H 2 S. • The UV and H 2 S dual-function sensor was operated at room temperature. • The sensor showed ultra-high sensitivity to both UV light and H 2 S gas. • The sensor exhibited super detection limit to both UV light and H 2 S gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • ZnO NW and WO 3 NP are synthesized VLS and hydrothermal method, respectively. • WO 3 nanoparticle are decorated on ZnO nanowire surface to fabricate high sensitive H 2 sensor. • H 2 sensing responses of WO 3 -ZnO NW is improved compared with ZnO NW. • Expansion of depletion layers of WO 3 -ZnO NW makes sensing responses improved. Abstract WO 3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnO nanowires are synthesized by the hydrothermal and vapor-liquid solid (VLS) methods, respectively. WO 3 nanoparticles are decorated on the surface of ZnO nanowires to fabricate the highly sensitive hydrogen gas sensor. This structured sensor presents a sensing response that is 4.3 times higher than its counterpart for 2000 ppm hydrogen gas. The variation in depletion layer width of the ZnO nanowires increases as the WO 3 nanoparticles are decorated. This improves the sensing response of the WO 3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnO nanowire sensor compared with its counterpart. In this research, a synthetic method of WO 3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnO nanowires is described, and its physical and chemical properties are analyzed. Moreover, the sensing responses are measured, and the sensing mechanism is discussed in this literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • This work is a successful report on fast synthesis of Cu-BTC nanoparticles and using them to fabricate the capacitive sensor in interdigitated electors (IDE) configuration. • The sensing performance of Cu-BTC nanoparticles based capacitive sensor in IDE configuration was compared to parallel plate (PP) configuration. • A fast, simple and low cost strategy was introduced for IDE fabrication which does not need any expensive equipment and pretreatment for better adhesion. • The dielectric constant of the Cu-BTC layer was measured in different relative humidity, which can help to know the reason of different behavior of fabricated sensors towards various analytes with different dielectric constant. Abstract Capacitive chemosensors are commonly found in two configurations: parallel-plate (PP) and interdigitated electrode (IDE) based on different sensing layers. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) can play an important role as a dielectric layer of the capacitors because of their insulating properties. However, to date there are few reports on MOFs which were used as a key component of a capacitive sensors. In the limited reports on using MOFs in capacitive sensors, PP configuration was mostly considered. Within the class of MOFs, Cu-BTC (copper:1, 3, 5-benzenetricarboxylate) is a well-studied structure. Although the structure of Cu-BTC has high porosity and large surface area which can improve the sensitivity of IDE capacitive sensors, there are no reports on using this kind of MOF for this purpose. This article is developed in the following order: first, the Cu-BTC nanoparticle is synthesised to make a Cu-BTC sensing layer. The dried Cu-BTC layer is characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diff ;raction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. These characterization methods confirm the identity of the synthesized material, the nanoscale size of the particles, its VOCs stability and the rigidity of its structure. Secondly, for the first time, Cu-BTC nanoparticles are introduced as a sensing layer in IDE capacitive gas sensors. In order to reduce fabrication costs and time of the conducting elements in IDE configuration, a simple, fast and cost-effective method is introduced which does not need any equipment and pre-treatment for better adhesion. Third, to have a comparative investigation between the sensing performance of IDE and PP capacitive sensors, their performance in detection of some VOCs vapours is examined. Subsequently, the selectivity, recovery time, reproducibility, repeatability and reversibility, sensitivity and limit of detection (LOD) of the IDE and PP capacitive sensors are studied for detection of some VOCs such as acetone, toluene and dichloromethane with different dielectric constants. All experiments were carried out at different concentrations (250–1500 ppm) of VOCs in ambient conditions (atmospheric pressure, 25 ℃ and 10% relative humidity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Composite materials are replacing the traditional materials because of their remarkable properties and the addition of nanoparticles making a new trend in material world. The nano addition effect on tribological properties is essential to be used in automotive and industrial applications. The current work investigates the sliding wear behavior of an aluminum alloy (AA) 6061-based hybrid metal matrix composites (HMMCs) reinforced with SiC and B4C ceramic nanoparticles.Design/methodology/approach The hybrid composites are fabricated using stir casting process. Two different compositions were fabricated by varying the weight percentage of the ceramic reinforcements. An attempt has been made to study the wear and friction behavior of the composites using pin-on-disc tribometer to consider the effects of sliding speed, sliding distance and the normal load applied.Findings The tribological tests are carried out and the performances were compared. Increase in sliding speed to 500 rpm resulted in the rise of temperature of the contacting tribo-surface which intensified the wear rate at 30N load for the HMMC. The presence of the ceramic particles further reduced the contact region of the mating surface thus reducing the coefficient of friction at higher sliding speeds. Oxidation, adhesion, and abrasion were identified to be the main wear mechanisms which were further confirmed using energy dispersive spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) of the worn out samples.Practical implications The enhancement of wear properties is achieved because of the addition of the SiC and B4C ceramic nanoparticles, in which these composites can be applied to automobile, aerospace and industrial products where the mating parts with less weight is required.Originality/value The influence of nanoparticles on the tribological performance is studied in detail comprising of two different ceramic particles which is almost new research. The sliding effect of hybrid composites with nano materials paves the way for using these materials in engineering and domestic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We propose a novel method for the fabrication of CeO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) with enhanced heat tolerance. SiO 2 was mixed with CeO 2 at the nano-level to yield SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites by a solvothermal reaction of precursor solutions consisting of Si(OEt) 4 , Ce(NO 3) 3 ·6H 2 O, and N , N , N ′, N ′-tetramethylethylenediamine in methanol. SiO 2 content in the SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites was freely controllable by adjusting the Si(OEt) 4 mol fraction in range of 0–0.5 in the precursor solutions. With an increase of SiO 2 content in the SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites, the primary particle sizes of the CeO 2 NPs decreased, and the specific surface areas of the SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites increased remarkably. For SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites obtained from a precursor solution consisting of 1:1 Si(OEt) 4 and Ce(NO 3) 3 ·6H 2 O, the specific surface area was over 300 m2/g. Excellent heat tolerance was achieved through the retention of small size of CeO 2 crystallites, as well as the large specific surface areas of the SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP assemblies, even after calcination at 850 °C for 3 h or at 700 °C for 72 h in air. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Development of the simple single-step and one-pot solvothermal approach to synthesize SiO 2 –CeO 2 NP composites with mesoporous structure and a uniform distribution of SiO 2 and CeO 2. • Easy control of the SiO 2 :CeO 2 ratio in the NP composites by adjusting the reaction conditions. • Excellent heat tolerance of SiO 2 ‒CeO 2 NP composites with retention of small size of CeO 2 crystallites and large specific surface areas under high-temperature conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ground water arsenic contamination is one of the major global issues in recent days. The long exposure of arsenic can cause hazardous health effects like skin cancer, lung cancer as well as heart diseases. Conventional methods for monitoring arsenic level is often strenuous and require highly skilled personals to perform the measurements, thus there is a need to develop a simple and cost- effective techniques for quick and continuous monitoring. Paper-based approach for detecting the arsenic is a low-cost, noninstrumental method and provides on-site detection of water contaminants. In this study a rapid, simple and affordable method for arsenic detection was developed. This methodology involves the generation of arsine gas inside the analysis system that reacts with the silver nitrate present on the paper analytical device (PAD). This reaction between silver nitrate and arsine gives a colored product that was detected by scanning the colored intensity with image processing software. The iron oxide nanoparticles act as a reducing agent that causes the generation of arsine gas from arsenic. These nanoparticles were synthesized through green technology by using henna extract. The whole reaction takes place in the glass vial with the rubber cap on it at which the PAD was placed. Experimental parameters like concentration of reducing agent, silver nitrate and reaction time were evaluated that affects the performance of the analytical process. Under optimal conditions the method showed the detection limit of 0.005ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A rapid and low-cost fabrication of flow reactors is presented. • The manufacturing procedure can be completed within one day, at the average material cost of £5. • Silver nanospheres and liposomes were synthesized using the 3D printed mould casting reactor. • Operation at total flow rates up to 20 ml/min was demonstrated. Abstract The translation of continuous-flow microreactor technology to the industrial environment has been limited by cost and complexity of the fabrication procedures and the requirement for specialised infrastructure. In the present study, we have developed a significantly more cost-effective and easy-to-perform fabrication method for the generation of optically transparent, continuous-flow reactors. The method combines 3D printing of master moulds with sealing of the PDMS channels' replica using a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape. Morphological characterisation of the 3D printed moulds was performed and reactors were fabricated with an approximately square-shaped cross-section of 1 mm2. Notably, they were tested for operation over a wide range of volumetric flow rates, up to 20 ml/min. Moreover, the fabrication time (i.e., from design to the finished product) was <1 day, at an average material cost of ∼£5. The flow reactors have been applied to the production of both inorganic nanoparticles (silver nanospheres) and organic vesicular systems (liposomes), and their performance compared with reactors produced using more laborious fabrication methods. Numerical simulations were performed to characterise the transport of fluids and chemical species within the devices. The developed fabrication method is suitable for scaled-up fabrication of continuous-flow reactors, with potential for application in biotechnology and nanomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Silica quantum dots (SiQDs) and their luminescent composites have displayed great potential for biomedical applications owing to their chemical inert and low cost. In this work, we report a facile, cost-effective and ultrafast strategy to prepare a stable luminescent SiQDs using N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylenediamine (EDAS) and salicylaldehyde as precursors for the first time. These luminescent SiQDs were further utilized for fabrication of luminescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) through direct encapsulation of SiQDs by MSNs. The novel synthetic and modified SiQDs uses commercial raw materials and the entire reaction can be completed within 30 s. The successful preparation of SiQDs and SiQDs@MSNs were characterized by various characterization equipments. The cell viability as well as cell uptake behavior of SiQDs@MSNs were also examined to evaluate their potential for biomedical applications. We demonstrated that these SiQDs@MSNs are low toxicity and of great potential for biological imaging. Based on the above results, we believe that these SiQDs@MSNs should be novel and promising candidates for biomedical applications owing to their intense fluorescence, biocompatibility and high specific surface areas. Graphical abstract A rather facile and ultrafast strategy has been developed for the synthesis of silicon quantum dots, which have been subsequently utilized for preparation of luminescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Unlabelled Image Highlights • One-pot ultrafast preparation of silica quantum dots • Encapsulation of silica quantum dots by mesoporous silica nanoparticles • The final luminescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles were biocompatible. • These luminescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles are potentially applied for bioimaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The synthesized MgO displayed high efficiency and stability in the transesterification synthesis of EMC. • The synthesized MgO has a large surface area and adjustable alkalinity. • The developed pyrolysis strategy is a facile and scalable synthesis technique. • The obtained MgO can be used in different fields and has good prospects. • A possible mechanism of controlling base strength was proposed from morphological factors. Hierarchically porous MgO catalysts with high surface area and adjustable alkalinity were prepared with a carbon deposit template in-situ generated via pyrolysis of organic compounds (OCs) in an inert atmosphere. The effects of the preparation parameters, such as calcination temperature, atmosphere, types and dosage of OCs, etc., on the physicochemical properties of synthesized MgO were investigated. The characterization results suggested that the base strength varied with preparation conditions due to the different microstructure caused by various parameters and the influence mechanism of microstructure on the base strength of synthesized MgO was speculated and discussed. A yield of ethyl methyl carbonate as high as 49.5% was achieved for the best sample synthesized in this work at 103 °C in only 20 min. High specific surface area (∼206 m2·g−1), large pore volume (0.48 cm3· g −1) and suitable base strength enable the obtained MgO an eligible candidate for transesterification reaction. Additionally, the new strategy for controlling the base strength of as-prepared MgO also suggested good prospects in other practical applications. The hierarchically porous MgO catalyst with high surface area and controlling base strength distribution was prepared by using in situ deposited carbon as the template for efficient transesterification synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate a simple method to create a variety of silica‐based colloidal molecules through the covalent assembly of site‐specifically functionalized patchy nanoparticles with complementary nanospheres. Colloidal analogues of BeBr2, BBr3 and CBr4 are obtained from sp‐, sp2‐ and sp3‐like particles, while Br2O and NBr3 analogues can be fabricated by varying the relative amounts of both colloidal precursors. We also show that it is possible to attach covalently silica nanospheres of various sizes to one central patchy nanoparticle, which leads to the formation of more complex colloidal molecules, including chiral ones. The possibility to easily extend the strategy to other colloidal precursors which can serve as satellites, for example, ellipsoidal polymer particles or metallic nanoparticles, opens the way to a rich variety of new colloidal analogues of atoms which could serve as building blocks of next generation materials. Molecular model kit: A large variety of silica‐based colloidal molecules, including chiral ones, has been created through the covalent assembly of site‐specifically functionalized patchy nanoparticles with complementary nanospheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effect of magnesium source on the fabrication of kotoite, Mg3B2O6, ceramic has been investigated by high temperature solid‐state reaction route based on the calcination of different magnesium sources, containing magnesium oxide, magnesium carbonate, magnesium sulfate, and magnesium nitrate with boric acid. The X‐ray powder diffraction results showed that single‐phase kotoite, Mg3B2O6, was synthesized using MgNO3.6H2O and 5 wt.% excess of H3BO3 powders as starting materials at 900°C for 48 hours. Mg3B2O6 obtained, is well crystallized, in orhorhombic crystal structure with lattice parameters of a = 5.399(9), b = 8.424(6), and c = 4.506(5) Å. Jana2006 refinement of this product shows excellent fit of the experimental data with software data, GOF= 1.33. The crystallite size of the product was calculated as 40.50 nm using Debye‐Scherrer's equation. The existence of BO3 triangles were detected by FTIR measurements of Mg3B2O6. The thermal properties were studied in the temperature range of 20°C to 1400°C by TG/DTA. The results showed that thermal stability of Mg3B2O6 is detected about 1380°C. Scanning electron microscopy was employed for observation of microstructure. The microstucture of obtained ceramic samples strongly depended on the magnesium source on the fabrication of Mg3B2O6 ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For high-valued application of natural DNA as raw materials, we prepared nanocarriers by using salmon sperm DNA and chitosan to encapsulate water-insoluble bioactives. Here, water dispersible astaxanthin/DNA/chitosan nano-aggregates (ADC-NAs) were prepared by co-assemble evaporation method. The key point for preparing well formed ADC-NAs was specifically discussed. The resultant ADC-NAs were spherical with 100–300 nm diameter measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and their homogeneous dispersions were sufficiently stable at room temperature. One important feature of these nanocarriers is enormously high loading amount of cargo (about 40 wt%). According to the UV–Vis spectra of the nanosuspension, we deduced that astaxanthin was encapsulated as uniquely structured J-aggregates. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy proved fabrication was successfully and astaxanthin was embedding in DNA/chitosan nanocarriers. Cytotoxicity was examined in vitro using cell culture in L929 cell lines. When necessary, these nano-aggregates can be degraded by DNase I. Homogeneous dispersions of other non-charged guest molecules are also prepared by using DNA/chitosan nanocarriers. These dispersions are cheaply and easily obtainable from naturally occurring DNA and chitosan, and should be useful for versatile applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Pd nanoparticles were produced onto a modified carbon with an organic layer. • Pd nanoparticles with highly homogeneous distribution was achieved. • A great catalytic performance toward the HER and ORR was acquired. • Great opportunities for cost-effective production of metal catalysts are exposed. Abstract Fabrication of well-defined metal nanoparticles with homogeneous distribution is of great importance to enhance the catalysts’ effectiveness and to minimize their cost. Here we report the electrodeposition of palladium on modified carbon substrates with an aryl-based organic monolayer and its electrocatalytic performance towards two model reactions with high involvement in energy storage and production systems, i.e. the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline medium. Main results indicate that the organic layer dramatically affects the growth, size and distribution of palladium nanoparticles on the conductive substrate, which provokes a great enhancement of the catalytic performance for both studied reactions. These results demonstrate the potential of synthetic methodology for cost-effective production of metallic catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In present study, a simultaneous electrospinning and electrospraying (SEE) process was employed to produce microclusters of TiO 2 nanoparticles and interlock them in nanofibrous network. The photocatalytic composite membranes (PCMs) were fabricated by electrospraying TiO 2 nanoparticle suspension into microcluster form that dispersed and entrapped within nylon-6 electrospun fiber membrane. Three PCMs membrane with TiO 2 content of 52.0, 83.6, and 91.7 wt.% were successfully fabricated. The membrane consisted of TiO 2 microclusters, ranging in sizes from around 0.3 to 10 μm, distributed uniformly within the nylon-6 nanofibrous network. PCMs photocatalytic activity against Methylene Blue (MB) in aqueous solution showed more than 98% MB removal efficiency after 120 min of photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) for all PCMs. For PCM with the highest TiO 2 content tested for 5 PCO cycles, it was found that most of their TiO 2 content remained incorporated within the nanofibrous structure. The concept of nanoparticles clusters entrapment with SEE fabrication employed here provide a simple and effective method for reducing detachment of nanostructure phase from nanocomposite membrane. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly uniform columnar-shaped CeO2 was successfully prepared in large quantities by calcining a precursor, which was prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. The structure and morphology of the precursor and the columnar CeO2 were characterised by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The columnar CeO2 was fixed on a glassy carbon electrode to obtain a columnar CeO2 sensor for detection of phenol. The anodic peak current was proportional to the phenol concentration in the range of 0.005-0.225 mmol l-1 (R = 0.995) and 0.225-1.125 mmol l-1 (R = 0.998) with the detection limit of 0.9 μmol l-1. This electrochemical method has the advantages of simplicity and ease of fabrication, rapid detection, low cost of the apparatus and wide dynamic ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: This article discusses the surface modification of methylcellulose:nitrate cobalt [MC:Co(NO3)2] through the sulfurated hydrogen (H2S) gas treatment. Solution cast technique has been used to fabricate MC:Co(NO3)2‐based solid polymer electrolytes. The results achieved for structural, morphological and optical properties indicate that H2S gas treatment is crucial for modification of polymer electrolytes to polymer composites. The morphological appearance revealed that the H2S gas treatment produced cobalt sulfide (CoS) nanoparticles on the surface of the films. The results of X‐ray diffraction indicate the disruption of the crystalline phase of the MC polymer upon addition of various amounts of Co(NO3)2 salt. The optical absorption spectra of the electrolyte samples shifted to higher wavelengths with increasing the cobalt nitrate salt concentration. The optical band gap of MC incorporated with 40 wt % Co(NO3)2 concentration was 4.69 and reduced to 4.52 eV after H2S surface treatment. The linear relationship between the refractive index and salt concentration supports the uniform distribution of the developed nanoparticles appeared in STM images. The significant change in intensity and position of Fourier transform infrared transmittance bands is an evidence for the formation of charge transfer complex between the added salt and the MC host polymer. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46676. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Regenerated cellulose nanoparticles (RCNs) are ideal materials for new biomass polymer composites industries. RCNs and composites of RCNs and water‐borne polyurethane (RCN/WPU) were prepared using a facile and environmentally friendly approach without the use of any harmful chemicals. The morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties of the RCN/WPU nanocomposite were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), rheometer, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, and enzymatic hydrolysis. RCNs exhibited low crystallinity upon regeneration with an NaOH‐based aqueous solution, and were identified by SEM and TEM to consist of the more thermodynamically stable cellulose form. TGA showed that the thermal stability of RCN/WPU nanocomposites was increased by the addition of RCNs. Finally, enzymatic hydrolysis using cellulase indicated that the biodegradability of RCN/WPU nanocomposites was also improved. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46633. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted considerable attention as a substitute for noble metals, such as Au and Pt, due to their unique surface plasmon resonance (SPR) properties, natural abundance, and low fabrication cost. We succeeded in one-step preparation of Cu NPs with a uniform size on glass surface by heating Cu 2+ ions-containing Na 2 O–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 glass in hydrogen atmosphere. The formation of Cu NPs was confirmed using scanning and transmission electron microscopies, small-angle X-ray scattering, and visible and infrared absorption spectroscopies. Heat treatment in a hydrogen environment facilitated the diffusion of hydrogen molecules into the glass to form Cu atoms and Al OH bonds. The Cu atoms migrated through gaps formed by Al OH toward the surface, where they combined to form Cu NPs. The optical spectra of showed sharp and intense SPR bands at a peak wavelength of 580 nm, indicating the homogeneous distribution of uniformly sized Cu NPs on the glass surface without aggregation. The obtained samples exhibited good sensing performance due to the strong SPR properties. Further advantage of our method was that Cu nanoparticles can be repeatedly formed by heating under H 2 gas after removing the previously formed particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) are studied for the design of advanced nanocomposite membranes owing to their highly antimicrobial properties, specific catalytic and chemical activities, abundancy and low cost. In this work, thin film nanocomposite membranes (TFN) containing CuNPs in the polyamide (PA) layer were designed via a facile interfacial polymerization method. The nanoparticles were incorporated into an aqueous solution containing piperazine monomers which is poured on the top surface of the polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membrane followed by adding trimesoyl chloride to form a polymerized PA film. RESULTS: The results show that the surface morphological structure investigated by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images is subject to visible changes of surface morphology, with a rougher net‐like structure while analysis of the chemical structure using attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirms that the introduction of CuNPs did not impede the structure of the PA layer. The effect of addition of inorganic functionalized nanomaterials on the overall membrane performance was significant. The water flux was greatly increased (twice the original water permeability), while maintaining high retention of Na2SO4, demonstrating good performance in the range of nanofiltration (NF). Furthermore, the TFN membranes exhibited a specific antibacterial effect, reducing the number of living bacteria (Escherichia coli) by 94.0%. CONCLUSION: Inorganic functionalization using CuNPs in the aqueous phase strongly enhanced membrane performance and provided the membrane surface with antimicrobial properties. This study suggests a new approach to TFN membrane research for the design of NF membranes for water treatment. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple two-step route is developed to fabricate hexagonal Cs x WO 3 nanoparticles. The core of this route is the preparation of the precursor by drying the mixture of WO 3 sol and CsCl, which leads to a higher Cs/W (0.32) ratio at low temperature in a short time. During reaction, oleic acid, used as a solvent, can be adsorbed on the surface of Cs x WO 3 nanoparticles, which results in small particle size (20 nm × 10 nm) and mild agglomeration. In addition, oleic acid also plays a role as a reducing agent in forming Cs x WO 3 nanoparticles without any further post-treatment. Furthermore, the film prepared from as-synthesized Cs 0.32 WO 3 nanoparticles shows excellent NIR-shielding properties (approximately 99% of the near-infrared radiation is cut off over a wavelength range of 780–2600 nm and the visible-light transmittance at 465 nm is 78.9%) when covering on an ordinary sheet of glass. A model which simulates the real environment is applied to evaluate heat-shielding performance of the Cs 0.32 WO 3 film while comparing with that of ordinary glass and commercial ITO glass (10 Ω □ −1 ). Results revealed that the Cs 0.32 WO 3 film showed superior performance than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the electrodeposition method was used to synthesis cobalt disulfide nanoparticles (NPs). The reaction conditions were optimized to fabricate NPs with minimum size. The role of reaction factors and their optimal conditions were determined by Taguchi method. Next, the NPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, FESEM, TEM, and TGA. The characterization results showed that the average size of optimal cobalt disulfide NPs is 15 nm, which totally is matched with the results of Taguchi. Also, the photocatalytic property of the cobalt disulfide NPs was evaluated. The results of photocatalytic inspection of NPs under UV light showed that the degradation of methyl orange after 50 min is about 98%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the present modern age, perhaps nanocomposites (NC)s are the most attractive materials which hold their situation in almost all of our life’s aspects. Among different kinds of the NCs, polymer based NCs are the most prominent one and have more adherents. Polymers are prepared via easily and relatively inexpensive routes, and have many favorable properties, such as light weight, ductility, and flexibility. The outstanding properties presented by the polymer/SiO 2 NC (PSNC)s prompted us to focus particularly on them in this review. First, we briefly elucidate about the nano-building block of these NCs and its preparation methods. Afterwards, this review concentrates on the NCs’ fabrication strategies and finally the most important properties and the related practical applications which are newly presented will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexagonal NaYF4:Yb:Er:Tm@NaGdF4 core-shell nanocrystals were synthesized using a seed mediated hot injection method, and monodispersed Fe3O4 (4 nm) nanoparticles were prepared from iron(II) actylacetonate by a precursor thermal decomposition method. Structural and morphology verified NaYF4:Yb:Er:Tm@NaGdF4 and Fe3O4 nanoparticles were utilized for the preparation of NaYF4:Yb:Er:Tm@NaGdF4/Fe3O4@SiO2 nanocomposite using a micro-emulsion method. Existence of Fe3O4 in NaYF4:Yb:Er:Tm@NaGdF4 in SiO2 nano-spheres were confirmed with transmission electron microscopy. Luminescence measurement revealed that NaYF4:Yb:Er:Tm@NaGdF4 exhibited strong emissions at green and red regions, in addition to a weak blue emission also observed under 980 nm excitation. Up-conversion emission of the nanoparticle-embedded silica nanocomposite showed that the up-conversion emission was not affected by Fe3O4 nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pristine Si is oxidized to insulative SiO2 when it comes in contact with air and water. Covering it with a protection layer inhibits passivation of Si and significantly improves its photoelectrochemical performance. In this study, TiOx with gradient change of oxygen stoichiometry ratio (TiOx) was designed as a protection layer and fabricated via a chemical vapour deposition process in Ar flow under 400 °C for 1 min. The anaerobic atmosphere and short heating duration synergistically produced the ratio of O and Ti lower than two in the prepared film. XPS analysis suggested the existance of TiO2 only at the surface of TiOx film and Ti3+ and Ti2+ appeared successively with the increase of distance to the surface. The first advantage of lower-valence-state Ti and oxygen deficiency was to inhibit the oxidation of Si and to reduce electric resistance of the interface and the protection layer. The second advantage was to create a defect energy level under the conduction band of TiO2 which provided the possibility for holes in the valence band of Si to be transferred to this defect level. This tunnel like transfer enhanced the photogenerated charge separation and redox ability of TiOx-Si which brought a 3.25 folds enhancements in photocurrent density compared to that of stoichiometric TiO2-Si at 0 V (SCE) under simulated sunlight. This study highly motivates further research on transparent and conductive protection layer of Si photoelectrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]