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Hybrid electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) based on the dimensional combination of various nanomaterials have been widely investigated in recent years. This is an inevitable development trend that seeks to inherit and promote the remarkable achievements of the double designs for an ideal electrode in both performance and stability. However, a clear and in‐depth understanding of the origin of the common progress trends, as well as the opportunities and challenges of such designs, are somewhat elusive due to the lack of detailed reviews of the field. Herein, we present a review of the hybrid electrodes arising from triple and quadruple combinational dimensions in LIB applications. The critical challenges of normal electrode operation are discussed in a detailed way to better understand how interactions and synergistic effects in hybrid design affect the mechanical aspects, electrochemical properties, performance and cycle life of batteries. Finally, the developments and innovations in future electrodes based on these higher‐dimensional hybrid designs are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, carbon dots-ionic liquid (CDs-IL) hybrid nanoparticles are synthesized, on the one side, for constructing novel nanostructure with IL inserted into the carbon skeleton, on the other side, for integrating both excellent friction- and wear-reducing abilities. To realize the assumption, the 1,4-Diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane was used as bridging agent to synthesize bis-functional dicationic ionic liquid with symmetric structure, followed by co-carbonization with carbon precursor to prepare target products under mild conditions. Three anions included bis(salicylato)borate (BScB), hexafluorophosphate (PF 6) and bis(trifluoromethanesulphonyl)imide (NTf 2) are utilized to tune their physicochemical properties. The chemical and microstructural properties of the products were characterized by NMR, FTIR, Raman mapping spectra, XPS, UV–visible spectra, Fluorescence spectra, SEM, HRTEM and so on. The produced CDs-IL with an average diameter range of 1–3 nm exhibit excitation-dependent maximum fluorescence at 340/405 nm, 440/518 nm and 380/458 nm for CDs-BScB, CDs-PF 6 and CDs-NTf 2 , respectively. The CDs-PF 6 is found to exhibit excellent anti-wear and friction-reducing properties as nanoadditives for PEG base fluid, which achieves remarkably improved anti-wear properties (96.5%) and friction-reducing (72.7%) properties simultaneously, owing to the formation of a protective carbon-based layer at the contact regions. Importantly, friction-induced luminescence quenching, transfer and aggregation of the CDs-IL were observed and their correlations were discussed. Image 1 • Carbon dots-ionic liquid (CDs-IL) hybrid nanoparticles with IL inserted into the carbon skeleton. • Unique carbon nanostructures from 1,4-Diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane based bis-functional dicationic ionic liquids. • Microstructure, component and photoluminescence properties of hybrid CDs-IL tailored by change of ILs. • Qualitative correlation between the unique quench effect of luminescence and lubricious performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile method for the fabrication of highly oriented hybrid thin films of conjugated polymer (CP) with graphene oxide (GO) as 2D nano-filler over the high surface tension liquid substrate by floating film transfer is being reported. Formation of the self-assembled oriented hybrid thin film has been validated using multiple characterization techniques. Hybrid thin films thus prepared have been used for the fabrication of organic field effect transistors (OFETs) followed by investigation of anisotropic charge carrier transport. OFETs made with hybrid films oriented in channel direction exhibited the superior device performance with >6 fold augmentation in field effect mobility (μ) and one order improvement in on/off ratio as compared to that of devices based on pristine CP. However, pristine polymer shows 2.2 fold enhancement in mobility and one order augmentation in on/off ratio in parallel orientation as compared to the corresponding perpendicularly oriented films. Thus, our study has elucidated a path to obtain oriented, aligned, and self - assembled hybrid films for further improvement in the device performance aiming towards the applications in organic electronics. (a) Surficial flow of hybrid solution on the liquid substrate depends on spreading coefficient S which is directly connected S = γ l i q − γ s o l − γ l i q − s o l . (b) Positive S results in a surficial flow of solution. However viscous force (F v) act as compressive force, results in formation of uniform compact, aligned and oriented hybrid thin film in star shape. HR-TEM and transfer curve depicts the GO induced alignment, orientation of polymer chain and high mobility hybrid film. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabrication procedures are crucial for the design and development of composite nanofibrous materials in order to obtain effective antibacterial properties. In this work, solvent homogenization and blend electrospinning are the methodology followed for the synthesis of filler nanomaterials. Earlier the hydrothermally synthesized filler rGO/Fe nanocomposites (NCs) was incorporated through the hierarchical combination onto the PAN/Ag blend to obtain PAN/Ag‐rGO/Fe3O4 composite polymeric melt. Further the homogenous solution was fed into the electrospinning setup which utilizes the electrostatic forces to form one‐ dimensional (1D) nanofibers and on further deposition leads to the formation of nanofibrous mat. The obtained nanofibrous mat was characterized by various analytical techniques in order to study its innate material properties and behaviour. The quality and composition of the nanofibrous mat along with its nanocomposite counterparts were investigated by XPS and Raman spectroscopic analysis for comparison. Apart from the conventional antibacterial assays that are followed in several studies, the present work also demonstrated the antibacterial efficacy of the nanomaterial through estimation of live/dead bacteria by the flow cytometry method. These quantitative assessments gives information associated with the antibacterial effect of the nanomaterials which will establish the practicality and feasibility for the development of such nano‐fillers functionalized nanofibrous filter for water purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The metal oxide/graphene hybrid nanomaterials have been known as promising functional materials for advanced applications such as high capacitive electrode material of secondary batteries, and high sensitive material of high performance gas sensors. Here, morphology controlled vanadium dioxide (VO 2) nanostructures were grown on Si wafer and exfoliated graphene by the vapor transport method using a horizontal furnace system. One-dimensional VO 2 nanowires were grown on SiO 2 (300 nm)/Si substrate under 0.4 kPa condition. On the other hand, thick polycrystalline of VO 2 platelets were grown on exfoliated graphene nanosheets under 0.4 kPa condition. In addition, polycrystalline VO 2 platelets were only grown on exfoliated graphene nanosheets under 101 kPa (atmospheric pressure) condition. The growth of polycrystalline VO 2 platelets on graphene nanosheets in atmospheric pressure condition is attributed to preferential growth on functional group of graphene surface such as carbonyl. The functional group is served as nucleation site of VO 2 nanostructures. Highlights • VO 2 nanostructures grown by vapor transport on bare and graphene-covered SiO 2 (300 nm)/Si. • VO 2 nanowires grew on SiO 2 (300 nm)/Si substrate under 0.4 kPa, none under 101 kPa. • Polycrystalline VO 2 platelets grown on graphene under 0.4 kPa condition. • Polycrystalline VO 2 platelets also grew on graphene under 101 kPa condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Hybrid nanocomposite combining In 2 O 3 nanofibers and rGO was prepared. • Sensor displayed high selectivity and sensitivity toward NH 3 at room temperature. • The enhanced performance was attributed to synergistic effects and heterojunction. Abstract Over the last few decades, there has been an increasing interest in ammonia gas detection for a wide range of applications, including food and environmental sectors and medical diagnostics. Herein, a useful NH 3 gas sensor based on a hybrid nanocomposite (NFI-rGO) combining In 2 O 3 ceramic nanofibers (NFI) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is proposed. The NFI was obtained by electrospinning technique followed by calcination treatment. The hybrid nanostructure was achieved by covering of the as-prepared NFI with rGO. The structure, surface morphology, and elementary composition of the NFI-rGO were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopies. The ammonia sensing performance of the NFI-rGO was investigated at room temperature by exposing the sensor to a variable gas concentration in the range from 1 up to 60 ppm. The hybrid nanocomposite exhibited superior electrical sensing properties and selectivity when compared with each individual material as sensing layer, indicating the synergistic effect between NFI and rGO. The NFI-rGO nanocomposite sensor showed a fast response with sensitivity 10 times higher than the individual NFI and rGO, a low detection limit of 44 ppb and an outstanding selectivity to NH 3 against other nitrogenated compounds and organic solvents. The enhanced sensing performance could be ascribed to the p-n heterojunction and the synergistic effect between the nanofibrous structure and the 2D rGO sheets, paving the way for the development of novel room temperature ammonia sensors employing hybrid nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The study of the lanthanide ion luminescence as a function of their environment in polymer-inorganic composites is necessary for better understanding of the electron energy transfer processes in a condensed state. From a practical point of view, these materials are promising for optics and medicine. The nanoparticles of ZrO 2 -LnO 1.5 (Ln = Eu, Tb) solid solutions were synthesized by hydrothermal method. The surface functionalization of the obtained nanoparticles by vinyl groups was carried out using 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate. Soluble and cross-linked composites based on poly(methyl methacrylate) with ZrO 2 -LnO 1.5 nanoparticles were synthesized using radical polymerization in solution and bulk. Molecular weight, thermal stability, and microhardness of the obtained composite materials were determined. The influence of both the polymerization conditions and the forming composite structure on the lanthanide ion photoluminescence in ZrO 2 nanoparticles covalently bonded to the polymer matrix was studied. The combination of ZrO 2 -EuO 1.5 and ZrO 2 -TbO 1.5 nanoparticles in the poly(methyl methacrylate) resulted in the production of composites with photoluminescence spectra overlapping the red and green regions of the visible range. It was shown that the structure of the composite affects the absorbing capacity of luminescent centers and allows shifting the excitation spectrum in the longer wavelength region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present hybrid nanomaterial architectures, consisting of carbon nanowalls (CNW) templates decorated with tungsten oxide nanoparticles, synthesized using a mechanism based on tungsten oxide sublimation, vapor transport, followed by vapor condensation, in the absence or presence of plasma. The key steps in the decoration mechanism are the sublimation of tungsten oxides, when are exposed in vacuum at high temperature (800 °C), and their redeposition on colder surfaces (400–600 °C). The morphology and chemical composition of the hybrid architectures, as obtained from Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, are discussed with respect to substrate nature and the physical conditions of synthesis. We pointed out that the decoration process is strongly dependent on the temperature of the CNW templates and plasma presence. Thus, the decoration process performed with plasma was effective for a wider range of template temperatures, in contrast with the decoration process performed without plasma. The results are useful for applications using the sensing and photochemical properties of tungsten oxides, and have also relevance for fusion technology, tungsten walls erosion and material redeposition being widely observed in fusion machines.

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have attracted increased interest and exhibited extended applications from nanotechnology to materials science, biomedicine, tissue engineering, as well as energy storage and environmental science. With the development of the synthesis and fabrication of 2D materials, a new family of 2D materials, metal carbides (MCs), revealed promising applications in recent years, and have been utilized for the fabrication of various functional 2D and three-dimensional (3D) nanomaterials for energy and environmental applications, ascribing to the unique physical and chemical properties of MCs. In this review, we present recent advance in the synthesis, fabrication, and applications of 2D and 3D MC-based nanomaterials. For this aim, we first summarize typical synthesis methods of MCs, and then demonstrate the progress on the fabrication of 2D and 3D MC-based nanomaterials. To the end, the applications of MC-based 2D and 3D materials for chemical batteries, supercapacitors, water splitting, photodegradation, removal of heavy metals, and electromagnetic shielding are introduced and discussed. This work provides useful information on the preparation, hybridization, structural tailoring, and applications of MC-based materials, and is expected to inspire the design and fabrication of novel and functional MXene materials with improved performance.

Diatom frustules represent one of the most complex examples of micro- and nano-structured materials found in nature, being the result of a biomineralization process refined through tens of milions of years of evolution. They are constituted by an intricate, ordered porous silica matrix which recently found several applications in optoelectronics, sensing, solar light harvesting, filtering, and drug delivery, to name a few. The possibility to modify the composition and the structure of frustules can further broaden the range of potential applications, adding new functions and active features to the material. In the present work the most remarkable physical and chemical techniques aimed at frustule modification are reviewed, also examining the most recent genetic techniques developed for its controlled morphological mutation.

The development of nanomaterials as highly efficient contrast agents for tumor computed tomography (CT) imaging still remains a huge challenge. In this study, a novel and facile approach to fabricate unimolecular micelles-stablized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) without external reductant for in vitro targeted CT imaging was described. Amphiphilic 21-arm star-like polymers β-cyclodextrin- g -{poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)-poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)-poly[poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate]} [β-CD- g -(PDMA- b -PHEMA- b -PPEGMA)] was firstly synthesized and proved to form unimolecular core-middle layer-shell-type micelles in water through experimental and computer simulation results. Taking advantage of the reducing groups of PDMA block, AuNPs were decorated in the micellar PDMA block because of the in situ reduction of gold ions, which were absorbed by the PDMA chains in the core layer with a narrow nanoparticle size distribution. This strategy could prevent aggregation of AuNPs, which were capable of being employing as a highly effective probe for specific CT imaging in vitro . Importantly, the β-CD- g -(PDMA- b -PHEMA- b -PPEGMA)/AuNPs incubated with HepG2 cells, displayed more intense X-ray attenuation property (>37%) than conventional iodine-based CT imaging agent (Omnipaque) and also possessed a satisfying cytocompatibility in the given concentration range. The facile fabrication procedures and the efficiency of CT imaging render the novel hybrid unimolecular micelles to become potent candidates for applications in tumor-targeted CT imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitin nanocrystal (ChNC) was isolated using sulfuric acid hydrolysis (ChNC H2SO4 ), TEMPO-oxidation (ChNC TEMPO ), and ammonium persulfate (ChNC APS ) methods, and used for the preparation of hybrid nanoparticles of ChNC/silver nanoparticles (AgNP). The ChNC exhibited a needle-shaped structure with a sulfate group content of 135 μmol/g for ChNC H2SO4 and carboxyl content of 0.71 and 1.42 mmol/g for ChNC TEMPO and ChNC APS , respectively. ChNC worked as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the production of AgNP and reduced the size of AgNP from 23.9 nm to 6.3 nm in the ChNC/AgNP hybrid. The carboxyl content of ChNC played a significant role for the nucleation, size distribution, and antibacterial activity of ChNC/AgNP. ChNC/AgNP hybrid, especially ChNC APS /AgNP, exhibited strong antibacterial activity against food-borne pathogenic Gram-negative ( E. coli ) and Gram-positive ( L. monocytogenes ) bacteria. The prepared ChNC/AgNP hybrid nanomaterials have a high potential for the application to be used as a nanofiller to improve the properties of food packaging materials to extend the shelf-life of packaged food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present work, we reported the dye functionalization of CNTs via diazonium interface chemistry for designing new hybrid materials for sensing applications. Towards this end, Neural Red dye diazonium salt (DNR) was spontaneously reacted with MWCNTs in water at room temperature to synthesize CNT-NR nanohybrids and were characterized by an arsenal of complementary techniques (IRATR, Raman, TGA TEM, AFM and XPS) which proved effective and covalent grafting of a continuous amorphous aryl layer from the dye, the thickness of which ranges from 1 to 5 nm corresponding nearly 30% mass loading. The CNT-NR hybrid was dispersed in dimethyl formamide (DMF) and drop casted on glass substrates for sensing of different volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and was observed to be highly selective towards acetone with response of 7.14% for 1000 ppm of acetone with response/recovery time of 47 and 49 s at room temperature (RT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report the advantages of hybrid nanomaterials prepared with electrogenerated ferrites (MFe2O4; M: Co, Mn) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) or thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRGO) on the electro‐reduction of hydrogen peroxide. Glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified with these hybrid nanomaterials dispersed in Nafion/isopropanol demonstrated a clear synergism on the catalytic reduction of reduction of hydrogen peroxide at pH 13.00. The intimate interaction between MFe2O4 and carbon nanomaterials allowed a better electronic transfer and a facilitated regeneration of M2+ at the carbon nanomaterials, reducing the charge transfer resistances for hydrogen peroxide reduction and increasing the sensitivities of the amperometric response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid nanomaterials with synergistic effect are highly potential for developing advanced nanozymes. Herein, we designed a nanozyme assembled by polyethylenimine (PEI)-protected reduced graphene oxide anchoring iron oxide (PRGI) and Pt nanoparticle using electrostatic interaction, PRGI/Pt nanohybrid. The different ratio of PRGI nanocomposite and Pt nanoparticle could control PRGI/Pt nanohybrid's surface charge and stability, which determined PRGI/Pt nanohybrid's catalytic activity. At the mass ratio of 0.8, the as-obtained PRGI/Pt nanohybrid showed the highest catalytic ability, and was better than Pt nanoparticle at different pH and temperature, although the PRGI/Pt nanohybrid showed lower affinity for TMB than Pt nanoparticle, which maybe attributed to the fact that PRGI/Pt nanohybrid possessed better product desorption ability or larger contact area. Furthermore, PRGI/Pt nanohybrid showed much higher catalytic activity than the sum of PRGI nanocomposite and Pt nanoparticle, indicating the strong cooperation between PRGI nanocomposite and Pt nanoparticle. Our study also provided a new way to conveniently construct nanozyme based on hybrid nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are widely known for their record storage capacities of small gas molecules (H2, CO2, and CH4). Assembly of such porous materials onto well‐known chemiresistive gas sensing elements such as SnO2 could be an attractive prospect to achieve novel sensing properties as this affects the surface chemistry of SnO2. Cobalt‐imidazole based ZIF‐67 MOF was grown onto preformed SnO2 nanoparticles to realize core–shell like architecture and explored for greenhouse gas CO2 sensing. CO2 sensing over SnO2 is a challenge because its interaction with SnO2 surface is minimal. The ZIF‐67 coating over SnO2 improved the response of SnO2 up to 12‐fold (for 50 % CO2). The SnO2@ZIF‐67 also showed a response of 16.5±2.1 % for 5000 ppm CO2 (threshold limit value (TLV)) at 205 °C, one of the best values reported for a SnO2‐based sensor. The observed novel CO2 sensing characteristics are assigned to electronic structure changes at the interface of ZIF‐67 and SnO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural defects in both MCM–41 (Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41) framework and V 2 O 5 nanocrystals and surface acid sites of the V 2 O 5 /MCM–41 hybrid nanomaterials were quantitatively determined. Oxygen defects were found to be related to Lewis acid sites in the materials. In the oxidative desulfurization of a model diesel, dibenzothiophene conversion was almost proportional to the number of Lewis acidity and generally correlated with the oxygen defects concentration in V 2 O 5 . This work confirmed that increasing surface Lewis acidity and oxygen defect concentration is an effective route to improve the catalytic activity in the oxidation of sulfur compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recent developed conducting polymer based hybrid thermoelectric (TE) materials provide a promising alternative route for energy conversion on a large scale. However, high thermopower largely relies on high content of low‐abundance elements, such as tellurium, which impedes the mass production of these materials. To optimize the compositions of the hybrids and further improve the TE properties, interfacial engineering is therefore employed to modulate the carrier transport properties in rationally designed multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)‐Te nanorod/polyaniline (PANI) ternary hybrid nanomaterials considering the similar π–π conjugated interactions among these constituents. The effects of MWCNTs and Te nanorods, especially the multiple interfaces formed between the constituents, on the TE performances and carrier transport behavior are studied in depth. Due to simultaneous increase in both electrical conductivity and thermopower, an optimal power factor of 54.4 µW m−1 K−2 is obtained in 52%Te‐16% MWCNT/PANI film, which is almost twice the value of binary Te/PANI film at the same Te content and comparable to that of 60% Te/PANI film. Moreover, the ternary hybrid film shows good mechanical stability. This study demonstrates an effective strategy to improve TE performances of conducting polymer based hybrids and has great potential for cost‐effective flexible energy conversion devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproducibility of key nanomaterial features is essential in nanomedicine applications where small changes of physical characteristics often lead to a very different behavior. In this regard, continuous microreactors are often advocated as a means to achieve highly precise synthesis of nanomaterials. However, when the synthesis must take place at high temperatures the use of these devices becomes restricted in terms of materials and practical problems (e.g. plugging of microchannels). Here we present the continuous synthesis of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) through a polyol-based process at high temperatures (>200 °C). The microfluidic reactor designed allows SPION production at residence times under 1 min, was able to work continuously for 8 h without channel blockage and reached high production yields by coupling microreactors using stacked plates. The effect of operating conditions was optimized to produce homogeneous particles with a narrow particle size distribution. In summary, the microreactor developed in this work enables easy-to scale up, reproducible continuous production of SPIONs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tin oxide nanowires (SnO 2 NWs) exhibit large potential for applications in sensor and detector technology. Using a flame transport synthesis method, high-quality single crystalline SnO 2 nanowires (NWs) with Zn 2 SnO 4 dots functionalized surface were synthesized on a large scale. The individual SnO 2 :Zn 2 SnO 4 nanowire based ultraviolet photodetector and ethanol vapors nanosensors were fabricated by contacting an individual nanowire to pre-patterned Au electrodes via a FIB/SEM system. The photodetector structure exhibited excellent photoconductive performance in terms of high response to the 375 nm ultraviolet light irradiation, ultra-fast response and recovery time at different temperatures (25–300 K). It also showed a long term stability and reliability. The n -type semiconducting behavior of the SnO 2 :Zn 2 SnO 4 , forms an excellent material for fabricating highly sensitive and rapid responding sensors, which will enable the development of high-performance multi-functional devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Downsizing well-established materials to the nanoscale is a key route to novel functionalities, in particular if different functionalities are merged in hybrid nanomaterials. Hybrid carbon-based hierarchical nanostructures are particularly promising for electrochemical energy storage since they combine benefits of nanosize effects, enhanced electrical conductivity and integrity of bulk materials. We show that endohedral multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNT) encapsulating high-capacity (here: conversion and alloying) electrode materials have a high potential for use in anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIB). There are two essential characteristics of filled CNT relevant for application in electrochemical energy storage: (1) rigid hollow cavities of the CNT provide upper limits for nanoparticles in their inner cavities which are both separated from the fillings of other CNT and protected against degradation. In particular, the CNT shells resist strong volume changes of encapsulates in response to electrochemical cycling, which in conventional conversion and alloying materials hinders application in energy storage devices. (2) Carbon mantles ensure electrical contact to the active material as they are unaffected by potential cracks of the encapsulate and form a stable conductive network in the electrode compound. Our studies confirm that encapsulates are electrochemically active and can achieve full theoretical reversible capacity. The results imply that encapsulating nanostructures inside CNT can provide a route to new high-performance nanocomposite anode materials for LIB.

Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) exhibit great potentials in the fields of materials science, biomedicine, tissue engineering, catalysis, energy, environmental science, and analytical science due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Usually, CNFs with flat, mesoporous, and porous surfaces can be synthesized by chemical vapor deposition and electrospinning techniques with subsequent chemical treatment. Meanwhile, the surfaces of CNFs are easy to modify with various materials to extend the applications of CNF-based hybrid nanomaterials in multiple fields. In this review, we focus on the design, synthesis, and sensor applications of CNF-based functional nanomaterials. The fabrication strategies of CNF-based functional nanomaterials by adding metallic nanoparticles (NPs), metal oxide NPs, alloy, silica, polymers, and others into CNFs are introduced and discussed. In addition, the sensor applications of CNF-based nanomaterials for detecting gas, strain, pressure, small molecule, and biomacromolecules are demonstrated in detail. This work will be beneficial for the readers to understand the strategies for fabricating various CNF-based nanomaterials, and explore new applications in energy, catalysis, and environmental science.

Abstract: Metal oxides/MnO2 hierarchical hollow hybrid nanostructures have attracted significant attention because of their wide potential applications. However, the exploration of a general synthetic approach for fabricating hierarchical hollow hybrid nanostructures is still a great challenge. Herein, a “penetration‐carbonization and reduction‐coating–annealing” route is presented for the generalized synthesis of metal oxides/MnO2 hierarchical hollow hybrid spheres, including NiO/MnO2, Co3O4/MnO2, and CuO/MnO2. Because of the unique hierarchical hollow hybrid nanostructures, NiO/MnO2 nanomaterials possess a desirable capacity (1520 mA h g−1) and outstanding cyclic stability (909 mA h g−1 at the 200th cycle) as Li‐ion battery anode materials. The work reported herein can not only pave the way for the generalized synthetic strategy of metal oxides/MnO2 hierarchical hollow hybrid nanostructures, but also provide a promising application of NiO/MnO2 nanomaterials for Li‐ion battery anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials and ionic liquids (ILs) have very attractive properties for improved analytical preconcentration methods. Thus, ILs have been used as excellent tools to functionalize nanomaterials, giving them specific chemical properties for higher selectivity, extraction efficiency and extended re-utilization in preconcentration. Moreover, incorporation of IL-nanomaterial hybrids in miniaturized solid phase and liquid phase microextraction procedures is being increasingly exploited to obtain high analytical recoveries while developing environmentally friendly analytical methods. In this review, the design and application of innovative and efficient analytical methods for sensitive and selective determination of inorganic and organic analytes is described. The synthesis of some IL-nanomaterial hybrids is presented along with a revision of the most important synergistic physicochemical properties useful for the extraction of analytes. Finally, practical considerations concerning the application of IL-nanomaterial hybrids for the development of modern analytical separation and preconcentration techniques are fully discussed in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present article describes, thermal and microwave assisted hybridization of a narrow band gap CuInSe 2 (CISe) with a wide band gap semiconductor i.e. TiO 2 . Ex-situ thermal and microwave assisted hybridization of spherical CISe and anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) was carried using two different ratios (1:0.25 and 0.25:1.0; CISe:TiO 2 w/w) to generate novel hetero nanostrucutres of CISe/TiO 2 as efficient photo-catalyst. So-hybridized novel material revealed new absorption band near about 535 nm–564 nm (2.31–2.21 eV) confirming successful coupling between CISe and TiO 2 NPs. The CISe/TiO 2 hybrid material was thoroughly characterized by various advanced analytical tools such as UV–vis and Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, BET analysis etc. The XRD analysis confirmed presence of zinc blende CISe and anatase TiO 2 NPs. TEM revealed accumulation of TiO 2 over CISe nanoparticles with spherical morphology. Binding energies in the hybrid materials showed that there is no surface oxidation and all relevant values for elements Cu, In, Se, Ti and O were observed related to their oxidation states. CISe/TiO 2 photo-catalysts were employed against three different organic dyes viz Methylene blue (MB), Methyl orange (MO) and Rhodamine B (RhB) for their degradation via advanced catalytic oxidation process. The degradation efficiency as well as degradation rate constant for dyes were found to be significantly enhanced using hybrid catalyst as against the bare TiO 2 and CISe NPs. The MW assisted CISe/TiO 2 (0.25:1) hybrid nanostructured photo-catalyst showed degradation efficiency of about 87% while CISe/TiO 2 (1:0.25) photo-catalyst showed efficiency of about 69% against MB. The CISe/TiO 2 photo-catalyst was reused five times without much loss in its degradation efficiency. The formation of intermediates after degradation of all three dyes was investigated by HPLC/MS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential use of hybrid nanomaterials based on inorganic optically active nanoparticles known as quantum dots (QDs) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) has been proposed by several authors as light-controllable nanocatalyzers, moreover, the immobilization within or over silica based supports represents an advantage over bulk-dispersed systems. However, the implications of the immobilization of such hybrid photoactivatable catalyzing systems have not been clarified with detail. Here, we present a thorough study of the functional photoactive efficiency and recycling of immobilized CdS QDs and HRP systems with different configurations, immobilized over silanized silica quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors, allowing an accurate measure of the immobilized mass of each component and its correlation with the initial reaction rate of conversion of Amplex Red (AR) to resorufin. As well, the conversion efficiency is compared between the different systems and also to non-immobilized QD-HRP complexed systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the ability of porphyrin molecules to cooperate upon adsorption on the sp² curved surface of carbon nanotube. We discuss the role of the phenyl substituents in the cooperativity of the functionalization reaction. Moreover, a specific spatial organization of the molecules around the nanotube is unveiled through polarization sensitive experiments. Furthermore, we observe an increase of the energy splitting of the porphyrin main transition upon the adsorption on the nanotube. This effect, interpreted as a Davydov splitting, is analyzed quantitatively using a dipole-dipole coupling model. This study demonstrates the ability of porphyrin molecules to create an organized self-assembled layer at the surface of the nanotubes where molecules are electronically coupled together. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Described here a methodology for arraying of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) on the surface of DNA nanotubes (DNTs). Positioning of magnetic nanoparticles at exterior surface of DNTs were shaped after self-assembling of oligonucleotide staples within an M13mp18 DNA scaffold via an origami process. The staples were partially labeled with biotin to be arrayed at the surface of DNTs. Gel retardation assay of the DNTs carrying magnetic nanoparticles indicated a reversely behavioral electrophoretic movement in comparison to the nanotubes have been demonstrated previously. Also, high resolution transmission electron microscopy confirmed positioning magnetic nanoparticles at the exterior surface of DNTs, correctly. Ultrastructural characteristics of these DNA nanotubes using atomic force microscopy demonstrated topographic heights on their surfaces formed through positioning of magnetic nanoparticles outside the tubules. This nanoarchitecture would be potential for multiple arraying of nanoparticles that those be useful as functionalized chimeric nanocarriers for developing novel nanodrugs and nanobiosensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel microfluidic system was designed to produce in a continuous manner hybrid nanomaterials using the microchannel double w/o/w emulsification technique. Double w/o/w nanoemulsions were produced combining two inter-digital micromixers that afford working in continuous flow and with a high reproducibility and control on the reaction conditions. High throughput production of two hybrid nanomaterials, dye-doped SiO 2 (4 mg/min) and Au-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) (168 mg/min) nanoparticles, were achieved, showing the resulting nanomaterials excellent and reproducible optical properties and tunable loading. These hybrid nanomaterials could be potentially used in different biomedical applications. In addition, the microfluidic system designed for carrying out double emulsification enabled to decrease the particle size distribution of dye-doped SiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) up to 20 nm and to improve the Au NPs loading efficiency in Au-loaded PLGA hybrid nanoparticles. The excellent control achieved in the Au NPs loading allowed tuning the payload on demand. Finally, the microfluidic system designed in this work overpasses the productivity described in previously published batch-type reactors, while assuring the same properties of the resulting hybrid nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The herein reported work describes the development of hierarchically-organized fluorescent nanomaterials inspired by plant antenna systems. These hybrid materials are based on nanostructured zeolitic materials (LTL zeolite) doped with laser dyes, which implies a synergism between organic and inorganic moieties. The non-interconnected channeled structure and pore dimensions (7.1 Å) of the inorganic host are ideal to order and align the allocated fluorophores inside, inferring also high thermal and chemical stability. These artificial antennae harvest a broad range of chromatic radiation and convert it into predominant red-edge or alternatively white-light emission, just choosing the right dye combination and concentration ratio to modulate the efficiency of the ongoing energy transfer hops. A further degree of organization can be achieved by functionalizing the channel entrances of LTL zeolite with specific tailor-made (stopcock) molecules via a covalent linkage. These molecules plug the channels to avoid the leakage of the guest molecules absorbed inside, as well as connect the inner space of the zeolite with the outside thanks to energy transfer processes, making the coupling of the material with external devices easier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a conjugated donor-acceptor copolymer consisting of a pyrrolopyridazinedione (PPD) acceptor unit, and a benzodithiophene (BDT) donor unit. The polymerization was done via a Stille cross-coupling polycondensation. The resulting PPD-BDT copolymer revealed an optical bandgap of 1.8 eV and good processability from chlorobenzene solutions. In an organic solar cell in combination with PCBM, the polymer led to a power conversion efficiency of 4.5%. Moreover, the performance of the copolymer was evaluated in polymer/nanocrystal hybrid solar cells using non-toxic CuInS nanocrystals as inorganic phase, which were prepared from precursors directly in the polymer matrix without using additional capping ligands. The PPD-BDT/CuInS hybrid solar cells showed comparably high photovoltages and a power conversion efficiency of 2.2%. Graphical abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Αbstract The enhancement of the photocatalytic performance of anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles is demonstrated by a facile route, involving their in-situ surface modification with preformed polymer chains. Random copolymers of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate- co -methacrylic acid (PEGA- co -MAA) or poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate- co -dopamine methacrylamide (PEGA- co -DMA) were synthesized by reversible addition−fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization and were bound onto the surface of anatase titania nanoparticles via the “grafting to” method. The hybrid nanocatalysts were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta-potential measurements, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and transmission electron microscopy. Their photocatalytic performance was evaluated by the decoloration of methylene blue (MB) dye in aqueous media under UV–vis light irradiation. The enhanced photoactivity and reusability of the polymer modified photocatalysts compared to that of bare TiO 2 nanoparticles was attributed to their improved dispersability and colloidal stability, the smaller particle size that leads to a larger surface area and the increased adsorption capacity of the dye onto the polymer modified nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel nacre-mimic bio-nanocomposites, such as graphene-based laminates, are pushing the boundaries of strength and toughness as flexible engineering materials. Translating these material advances to functional flexible electronics requires methods for generating print-scalable microcircuits (conductive elements surrounded by dielectric) into these strong, tough, lightweight bio-nanocomposites. Here, a new paradigm for printing flexible electronics by employing facile, eco-friendly seriography to confine the reduction of graphene oxide biopapers reinforced by silk interlayers is presented. Well-defined, micropatterned regions on the biopaper are chemically reduced, generating a 106 increase in conductivity (up to 104 S m−1). Flexible, robust graphene-silk circuits are showcased in diverse applications such as resistive moisture sensors and capacitive proximity sensors. Unlike conductive (i.e., graphene- or Ag nanoparticle-loaded) inks printed onto substrates, seriography-guided reduction does not create mechanically weak interfaces between dissimilar materials and does not require the judicious formation of ink. The unimpaired functionality of printed-in graphene-silk microcircuits after thousands of punitive folding cycles and chemical attack by harsh solvents is demonstrated. This novel approach provides a low-cost, portable solution for printing micrometer-scale conductive features uniformly across large areas (>hundreds of cm2) in layered composites for applications including wearable health monitors, electronic skin, rollable antennas, and conformable displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal nanoparticles have been tremendously utilised, such as; antibacterial and anticancer agents. Although metal nanoparticles exhibits antibacterial and anticancer activity, but the drawback of toxicity on normal cells limits their clinical applications. Therefore, improving the bioactivity of hybrid nanomaterial (HNM) and minimizing toxicity is of paramount importance for biomedical applications. Herein, a facile and simple double precipitation method was used to develop biocompatible and multifunctional HNM from antimicrobial chitosan, curcumin, ZnO and TiO 2. In HNM, biomolecules chitosan and curcumin were used to control the toxicity of ZnO and TiO 2 and improve their biocidal properties. The cytotxicological properties of the HNM was studied against human breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) and fibroblast (L929) cell lines. The antimicrobial activity of the HNM was examined against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, via the well-diffusion method. In addition, the antioxidant property was evaluated by the radical scavenging method. These findings actively, support the ZTCC HNM potential, as an innovative biocidal agent for applications in the clinical and healthcare sectors. • ZnO-TiO 2 -Chitosan-Curcumin hybrid nanomaterial was prepared in double precipitation. • Morphology studies reveal the ZTCC HNM has a rod-like structure. • The prepared HNM shows less toxicity towards the living cells (L929 cells). • Nanomaterials have significant cell viability, antioxidant and biocidal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their outstanding electrochemical properties, transition metal sulfides and hydroxides are often used as high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors. The Mn-doped Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 electrode material in this study, due to the synergistic reaction mechanism among Co(OH) 2 and Ni 3 S 4 and the increased active sites by the addition of Mn, the Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 exhibits excellent electrochemical property. The electrochemical performance of the Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 hybrid electrode was measured in an electrode cell made of 2 M KOH solution, showing a superior specific capacitance of 1107.0 C g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, in addition to the excellent capacity retention rate at 10 A g−1 is 72.7 % of that at 1 A g−1. The performance of the hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) assembled with Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 compound and activated carbon (AC) was measured under the same electrolyte conditions, anwell-specificific capacity (157.2 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) was achieved, along with superior long-term stable charge/discharge capability (88.9 % of the original specific capacity after 35,000 cycles at 8 A g−1). Meanwhile, the most practical application is when the power density of 410.4 W kg−1, the assembled HSC device has an energy storage capacity of 58.8 W h kg−1, revealing that the developed Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 has great application potential for supercapacitors in the future. [Display omitted] • Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 was synthesized via co-precipitation, and hydrothermal processes. • Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 electrode achieves a large specific capacity of 1107 C g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. • The specific capacity maintains 72.7 % when the current density is changed from 1 A g−1 to 10 A g−1. • Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 //AC HSC obtains an energy density of 58.8 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 410.4 W kg−1. • The capacitance of the Mn-Co(OH) 2 /Ni 3 S 4 //AC maintains ∼89.0 % after 35,000 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold nanoparticles, such as nanorods (AuNRs), present exceptionally high absorption cross sections that can be tuned to the near-infrared (NIR), the optimal window for light penetration in biological tissues. This makes them valuable photosensitizers for the treatment of cancer using photothermal therapy, where absorbed light energy is converted into heat. In addition, there is a strong interest in using hot electron carriers generated in AuNRs by NIR irradiation to produce cytotoxic radical oxygen species in order to enhance the efficiency of the phototherapy. Here, we show that hybrid nanoparticles composed of AuNRs with TiO 2 deposited at their extremities are efficient sensitizers to produce hydroxyl radical species under NIR irradiation. We attribute this phenomenon to the transfer of hot electrons generated from the plasmon excitation in AuNR to the TiO 2 tips, followed by reduction of dioxygen. We then functionalize these hybrid AuNR/TiO 2 nanoparticles with block poly(ethylene glycol)-phosphonate polymer ligands to stabilize them in a physiological medium. We finally demonstrate that the photodynamic effect induces cell death upon irradiation with a greater efficiency than the photothermal effect alone.

The oxides of transition, post-transition and rare-earth metals have a long history of robust and fast responsive recognition elements for electronic, optical, and gravimetric devices. A wide range of applications successfully utilized pristine or doped metal oxides and polymer-oxide hybrids as nanostructured recognition elements for the detection of biologically relevant molecules, harmful organic substances, and drugs as well as for the investigative process control applications. An overview of the selected recognition applications of molecularly imprinted sol-gel phases, metal oxides and hybrid nanomaterials composed of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) and metal oxides is presented herein. The formation and fabrication processes for imprinted sol-gel layers, metal oxides, MIP-coated oxide nanoparticles and other MIP/oxide nanohybrids are discussed along with their applications in monitoring bioorganic analytes and processes. The sensor characteristics such as dynamic detection range and limit of detection are compared as the performance criterion and the miniaturization and commercialization possibilities are critically discussed.

Abstract In this article, direct coating of ZnO on PECVD-grown multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is achieved using atomic layer deposition (ALD). Transmission electron microscopy investigation shows that the deposited ZnO shell is continuous and uniform, in contrast to the previously reported particle morphology. The ZnO layer has a good crystalline quality as indicated by Raman and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. We also show that such ZnO layer can be used as seed layer for subsequent hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanorods, resulting in branched CNT–inorganic hybrid nanostructures. Potentially, this method can also apply to the fabrication of ZnO-based hybrid nanostructures on other carbon nanomaterials.

Abstract A layer-by-layer technique has been developed to synthesize FeOOH–Au hybrid nanorods that can be transformed into Fe2O3–Au and Fe3O4–Au hybrid nanorods via controllable annealing process. The homogenous deposition of Au nanoparticles onto the surface of FeOOH nanorods can be attributed to the strong electrostatic attraction between metal ions and polyelectrolyte-modified FeOOH nanorods. The annealing atmosphere controls the phase transformation from FeOOH–Au to Fe3O4–Au and α-Fe2O3–Au. Moreover, the magnetic and optical properties of as-synthesized Fe2O3–Au and Fe3O4–Au hybrid nanorods have been investigated.