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In this research, the heterogeneous catalysts of Fe3O4@SiO@TiO‐FePc and Fe3O4@SiO@TiO‐ CuPcN (FePc = iron (II) phthalocyanine and CuPcN = copper (II) tetraazaphthalocyanine), termed respectively as nanocomposites 1 and 2, were prepared by immobilizing the FePc and CuPcN complexes on the Fe3O4@SiO@TiO surface and used for the photocatalytic water oxidation reaction. Since phthalocyanine complexes have received very little attention as photocatalysts for water oxidation, the advantage of the synthesized photocatalyst owes to the ability of the phthalocyanine complex grafted on the titanium substrate to oxidize water in the photocatalytic reaction. The prepared nanocomposites were then studied by diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopies, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, ultraviolet diffuse reflectance (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies. The photocatalytic response of water oxidation by nanocomposites 1 and 2 was investigated in the presence of silver nitrate as an electron recipient at ambient temperature. The progress of the water oxidation reaction was monitored with an oxygen meter. The amount of oxygen generated in the presence of nanocomposites 1 and 2 under visible light irradiation was found to be 2.6 and 2.1 mg L−1, respectively. Owing to the existence of magnetic material, these nanocomposites can be effortlessly removed from the response medium with an external magnet. The involved nanocomposites can be used up to three times in catalytic water oxidation reactions with no significant change in their photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phototransistors are three-terminal photodetectors that usually have a higher photocurrent gain than photodiodes due to the amplification of the gate electrode. In this work, a broad spectral phototransistor based on copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and a Cs3Bi2I9 (CBI) heterojunction is fabricated by the full vacuum evaporation method. Due to the complementary UV–visible absorption of CuPc and CBI, the device exhibits superior performance under three different types of visible light illumination. The experimental results show that the structure of the organic/perovskite heterojunction active layer has the characteristics of good compatibility and a simple process. Meanwhile, by utilizing the superior light-absorption characteristics of perovskite materials and the strong exciton dissociation efficiency of a hetero-type heterojunction interface, the CuPc/CBI-PT exhibits a higher photoresponsivity, photosensitivity, specific detection rate, and lower operating voltage than the CuPc reference device. The stability test shows that the CuPc/CBI-PT can still obtain a 0.73 A/W photoresponsivity under 660 nm light illumination after being stored in the air for 360 h without any packaging. This indicates that the organic/perovskite heterojunction PT may be a good choice for the preparation of high-performance photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A S-scheme heterojunction of CuPc/DR-MoS 2 with abundant sulfur vacancies is proposed, enabling extended visible-light absorption, enhanced charge carrier separation/transfer, and improved efficiency of semiconductors. Additionally, sulfur vacancies play a significant role in enhancing CO 2 adsorption/activation on the photocatalyst surface during photocatalysis. [Display omitted] Constructing a heterojunction by combining two semiconductors with similar band structures is a successful approach to obtaining photocatalysts with high efficiency. Herein, a CuPc/DR-MoS 2 heterojunction involving copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and molybdenum disulfide with S-rich vacancies (13.66%) is successfully prepared by the facile hydrothermal method. Experimental results and theoretical calculations firmly demonstrated that photoelectrons exhibit an S-scheme charge transfer mechanism in the CuPc/DR-MoS 2 heterojunction. The S-scheme heterojunction system has proven significant advantages in promoting the charge separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers, enhancing visible-light responsiveness, and achieving robust photoredox capability. As a result, the optimized 3CuPc/DR-MoS 2 S-scheme heterojunction exhibits photocatalytic yields of CO and CH 4 at 200 and 111.6 μmol g-1h−1, respectively. These values are four times and 4.5 times greater than the photocatalytic yields of pure DR-MoS 2. This study offers novel perspectives on the advancement of innovative and highly effective heterojunction photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the crystallization of acetaminophen (ACET) in ultrapure water and a 10 wt.% aqueous polyacrylic acid (PAA) solution using non‐photochemical laser‐induced nucleation (NPLIN) for the first time. Using a 532 nm nanosecond laser, two distinct crystal morphologies—rhombic and tetragonal plate‐like—are formed in both solvents after adding impurities. Notably, the PAA solution showed a reduced number of crystals and slower growth rates compared to ultrapure water, suggesting that the acidic polymer modulates crystal growth. Interestingly, crystals are not induced by the laser without impurities. However, impurities like copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) or boron carbide (CB4) enabled successful NPLIN, with CB4 showing higher nucleation efficiency than CuPc. The study also explores how laser power affects nucleation probability and identifies potential laser energy thresholds. Experimental data on ACET crystal sizes over time are fitted to derived equations, which accurately represented trends and predicted results. The nanoparticle heating mechanism and the role of acidic polymers in affecting nucleation probability and growth rate are discussed, along with potential mechanisms for changes in crystal morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Due to their rigid π-conjugated macrocyclic structure, organic sonosensitizers face significant aggregation in physiological conditions, hindering the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). An acid-sensitive nanoassembly was developed to address this issue and enhance sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and emission. Initially, copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) was activated using a H 2 SO 4 -assisted hydrothermal method to introduce multiple functional groups (–COOH, –OH, and −SO 3 H), disrupting strong π–π stacking and promoting ROS generation and emission. Subsequently, negatively charged CuPc-SO 4 was incorporated into bovine serum albumin (BSA) to form CuPc-Fe@BSA nanoparticles (10 nm) with Fe3+ ions serving as linkers. In acidic conditions, protonation of CuPc-SO 4 and BSA weakened the interactions, leading to Fe3+ release and nanostructure dissociation. Protonated CuPc-SO 4 tended to self-aggregate into nanorods. This acidity-sensitive aggregation is vital for achieving specific accumulation within the tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby enhancing retention and SDT efficacy. Prior to this, the nanocomposites demonstrated cycling stability under neutral conditions. Additionally, the released Fe ions exhibited mimicry of glutathione peroxidase and peroxidase activity for chemotherapy (CDT). The synergistic effect of SDT and CDT increased intracellular oxidative stress, causing mitochondrial injury and ferroptosis. Furthermore, the combined therapy induced immunogenic cell death (ICD), effectively activating anticancer immune responses and suppressing metastasis and recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-powered wearable pressure sensors based on flexible electronics have emerged as a new trend due to the increasing demand for intelligent and portable devices. Improvements in pressure-sensing performance, including in the output voltage, sensitivity and response time, can greatly expand their related applications; however, this remains challenging. Here, we report on a highly sensitive piezoelectric sensor with novel light-boosting pressure-sensing performance, based on a composite membrane of copper phthalocyanine (CuPC) and graphene oxide (GO) (CuPC@GO). Under light illumination, the CuPC@GO piezoelectric sensor demonstrates a remarkable increase in output voltage (381.17 mV, 50 kPa) and sensitivity (116.80 mV/kPa, <5 kPa), which are approximately twice and three times of that the sensor without light illumination, respectively. Furthermore, light exposure significantly improves the response speed of the sensor with a response time of 38.04 µs and recovery time of 58.48 µs, while maintaining excellent mechanical stability even after 2000 cycles. Density functional theory calculations reveal that increased electron transfer from graphene to CuPC can occur when the CuPC is in the excited state, which indicates that the light illumination promotes the electron excitation of CuPC, and thus brings about the high polarization of the sensor. Importantly, these sensors exhibit universal spatial non-contact adjustability, highlighting their versatility and applicability in various settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The core-shell structure photocatalysts have attracted extensive attention in photocatalysis due to large contact area, multiple reaction sites and high photocatalytic performance. Herein, a series of Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc nano core-shell composites photocatalyst were successfully synthesized by facile solution method. The results showed that the as-prepared Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S photocatalyst hydrogen evolution was only 0.40 mmol/g·h, while Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc composites show strong light absorption from 600 nm to 800 nm and high catalytic performance compared with pure Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S. Notably, the hydrogen evolution of Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S @CuPc-5% reached up to 2.14 mmol/(g·h), representing a remarkable 5.35 times improvement compared to the pure Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S when the optimal loading capacity of CuPc was set at 5%. The Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc-5% exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance can be attributed to the CuPc forms a uniform molecular film on the surface of Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S, and the close contact between Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S and CuPc which can effectively promote the transfer and separation of photo-generated carriers. Moreover, the 5% Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc nano core-shell composites have excellent stability, photocatalyst hydrogen activity reduce was approximately 20.1% after four runs for 12 h. This nano core-shell structure photocatalyst research offers a new strategy for constructing organic-inorganic nanocomposite photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • High hydrogen production of samples synthesized by lower cost raw material s. • Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc structure promote the separation of photogenerated charge carriers. • Nano core-shell Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc samples was synthesized using facile solution method. • Mn 0.5 Cd 0.5 S@CuPc exhibited dramatically enhanced photoactivity for H 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) interlayered Al/p-Si Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) were systematically fabricated utilizing spin coating technique. This study was undertaken to meticulously assess the influence of varying concentrations of CuPc on the intricate electrical and photodiode characteristics of these devices. The investigation involved the characterization of the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics configured with distinct different doping concentrations of CuPc such as 0.05 wt%,1 wt%, 2 wt%, under a wide range of voltages (± 5 V) and illumination irradiances. These measurements enabled the calculation of various critical electrical variables, such as the ideality factor (n), barrier height (ΦB), series resistance (Rs), shunt resistance (Rsh), interface states density (Nss) and their response under various illumination levels (between 10 and 100 mW/cm2) and under dark condition. An increase in the reverse current as the illumination increases suggested the potential utility of these SBDs as photodiodes, photosensors, or photodetectors. Notably, the linear dynamic range (LDR), a crucial factor for image sensors which obtained around 14 for all photodiodes. The photodiodes exhibited a good rectification ratio (RR) of approximately 104. The results obtained indicate that the rectifying properties of the structures can be controlled by CuPc doping. In addition, the results indicated that the presence of CuPc significantly influenced the values of n, ΦB, Rs/Rsh, and Nss. To further analyze the devices, capacitance–voltage (C–V) and conductance–voltage (G–V) measurements were carried out to determine parameters such as diffusion potential (VD), dopant acceptor atoms concentration (NA), Fermi energy level (EF), and width of depletion layer (WD) at both 1 kHz and 1 MHz. The measurements revealed that the capacitance values were higher at low frequencies compared to high frequencies, and this behavior was attributed to Nss. In summary, this study suggests that the manufactured photodiodes have the potential to be employed as photodiodes, sensors, or detectors in optical sensing applications, and their performance can be tailored by adjusting the concentration of CuPc in the ZnO interlayered structures. The discerned outcomes revealed the substantial influence of CuPc concentration on key electrical parameters, with conspicuous trends noted in the values of n, ΦB, Rs/Rsh, and Nss. Furthermore, the observed increase in the reverse current as the illumination level increases highlights the potential utility of these SBDs as sensitive photodiodes/sensors/detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 2D/2D Van der Waals (VDW) heterojunction between BCN/CuPc. • Phosphate group insertion between copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and B-doped and N -deficient g-C 3 N 4 (BDCNN) to design and construct a Van der Waals heterojunction. • Phosphate group as a charge modulator and an efficient conduit for charge transfer. • Interfacial interaction charge transfer mechanism. The realization of 2D/2D Van der Waals (VDW) heterojunctions represents an advanced approach to achieving superior photocatalytic efficiency. However, electron transfer through Van der Waals heterojunctions formed via ex-situ assembly encounters significant challenges at the interface due to contrasting morphologies and potential barriers among the nanocomposite substituents. Herein, a novel approach is presented, involving the insertion of a phosphate group between copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and B-doped and N -deficient g-C 3 N 4 (BDCNN), to design and construct a Van der Waals heterojunction labeled as xCu[acs]/yP-BDCNN. The introduction of phosphate as a charge modulator and efficient conduit for charge transfer within the heterojunction resulted in the elimination of spatial barriers and induced electron movement from BDCNN to CuPc in the excited states. Consequently, the catalytic central Cu2+ in CuPc captured the photoelectrons, leading to the conversion of CO 2 to C 2 H 4 , CO and CH 4. Remarkably, this approach resulted in a 78-fold enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency compared to pure BDCNN. Moreover the findings confirm that the 2D-2D 4Cu[acs]/9P-BDCNN sheet-like heterojunction effectively boosts photocatalytic activity for persistent pollutants such as methyl orange (MO), methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RhB), and tetracycline antibiotics (TCs). The introduction of "interfacial interacting" substances to establish an electron transfer pathway presents a novel and effective strategy for designing photocatalysts capable of efficiently reducing CO 2 into valuable products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study demonstrates the effective application of high-speed dispersion and bead mill dispermat systems in dispersing organic pigments, specifically phthalocyanine blue and green, in water with positive results. Particle size analysis reveals that formulations prepared using a bead mill with the selective surfactants such as Tween-80, SLS, Cocosulphosuccinate (CSPS) and Oleyl sulphosuccinate (OSPS) which exhibits a narrower range of particle size distribution compared to those prepared using high-speed dispersion (HSD). Phthalocyanine blue pigment concentrate formulation, the bead mill preparation using Tween-80 and CSPS surfactants resulted in a higher viscosity and color strength compared to HSD. In addition, the phthalocyanine green pigment concentrate formulation prepared using a bead mill with SLS surfactant showed higher color strength than the formulation prepared using HSD with SLS surfactant. Moreover, the comparative study reported the Nano CaCO3 pigment concentrate formulation prepared using a bead mill with SLS surfactant displayed a narrow range of particle size distribution ranging from 0.31 to 0.56 nm, with an average particle size of 0.435 nm, compared to the formulation prepared using HSD. All these findings suggested bead mill dispermat system with specific surfactants can produce pigment dispersions with a narrower particle size distribution, higher color strength, and better viscosity compared to HSD which demonstrating its potential as a more efficient and effective method for pigment dispersion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) were fabricated using plasticized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as the gate dielectric and copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) as the active layer. Propylene carbonate (PC) was used as a plasticizer material. The dielectric properties of the plasticized PMMA were investigated in detail and the OFET parameters were examined. The effective capacitance (Ci) of plasticized PMMA was measured as ~ 500 nF cm−2 (at 100 Hz), which is almost 70 times higher than that of pure PMMA. This increase in effective capacitance led to significant improvements in various key parameters of the fabricated OFETs. High hole field-effect mobility values (0.81 cm2 V−1 s−1), low threshold voltages (~ ±0.1 V), and low operating voltages (0 to ±0.8 V) were achieved by using the plasticized PMMA dielectric. The temperature dependence of the fabricated OFETs was also investigated, and the activation energy of CuPc was estimated as 29.3 meV. The plasticized OFETs demonstrated excellent stability over 3600 measurement cycles carried out in an ambient atmosphere. This demonstrated stability of the fabricated OFETs reinforces the practical feasibility of this material combination strategy, positioning it as a key advancement in the field of solution-processable gate dielectrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically dispersed nonprecious metal‐based catalysts have been considered as the most promising alternatives to Pt‐based catalysts since their excellent catalytic activities and almost 100 % atom utilization in oxygen reduction reaction. However, the agglomeration of metal atoms is unavoidable during pyrolysis process, thus leads to the decrease of electrocatalytic performance. Herein, hyperbranched phthalocyanine copper (HCuPc) wrapping nano‐silica is synthesized via in situ polymerization and served as precursor for preparing atomically dispersed Cu−N−C electrocatalysts. Owing to the confinement effect of chemical‐anchoring and spatial‐hindrance, the migration and agglomeration of Cu atoms are restricted in carbonization process. The aberration‐corrected high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) are performed to confirm the atomically dispersed of as‐synthesized catalyst, which is labelled as HCu−N−C/SiO2. In addition, the HCu−N−C/SiO2 possess superior ORR electrocatalytic activities with a half‐wave potential of 0.874 V vs RHE and a limiting current density of 5.7 mA cm−2. The zinc‐air batteries assembled with HCu−N−C/SiO2 catalyst exhibit a high specific capacity of 789 mAh g−1 as well as a maximum discharge power density of 176 mW cm−2. This work proves that hyperbranched phthalocyanine structure could be a useful confined framework to the fabrication of singles‐atom catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nonaqueous catalysis of lipases is significant for synthesis of high pure esters, but they usually behave low catalytic activity due to denaturation and aggregation of enzyme protein in organic phases. To improve the nonaqueous catalysis, the inexpensive copper phthalocyanine was taken as a new carrier on which Pseudomonas cepacia lipase was immobilized by physical absorption, and used for synthesis of hexyl acetate, an important flavor, via transesterification of hexanol and vinyl acetate. Results showed that the desired loading was 10-mg lipase immobilized on 10-mg copper phthalocyanine powder. When the immobilized lipase was employed in the reaction system consisted of 1.5-mL hexanol and 1.5-mL vinyl acetate at 37°C and 160 rpm, the conversion was fivefolds of that catalyzed by native lipase after 1 h, and reached 99.0% after 8 h. In six times of 8-h reuses, the immobilized lipase behaved an activity attenuation rate 1.22% h−1, lower than 1.77% h−1 of native lipase, which meant that the immobilized lipase was more stable. Even at the room temperature and the static state without shaking or stirring, the immobilized lipase still brought conversion 42.8% after 10 h and the native lipase gave 20.1%. Obviously, the immobilized lipase is an available biocatalyst in organic phase and has great potential in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytic model is used to calculate the Raman and fluorescence enhancement of a molecule in between two closely spaced gold nanospheres. Instead of using the conventional approach that only the dipolar plasmonic mode is considered, we calculate the electric field enhancement in the nanometre sized gap, by taking account of the higher order modes in one gold sphere, which couples to the dipolar mode of the other sphere. The experimental confirmation is performed by gap-dependent tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) measurements. The photoluminescence and Raman enhancement are both observed with different growing trends as the gap width decreases. Red-shift of the background spectra is observed and implies the increasing coupling between the nanospheres. This analytic model is shown to be able to interpret the enhancement mechanisms underlying gap-dependent TERS experimental results.

The use of electrolyte-gated transistors (EGTs) as sensors can be an advantageous alternative for the detection of anionic molecules due to their capability to detect various ions in solution. In this study, we explore the potential of EGTs as analytical tools for detecting anionic molecules, utilizing a copper phthalocyanine-3,4′,4″,4‴-tetrasulfonic acid tetrasodium salt (CuTsPc) solution as a proof of concept. The results demonstrate the EGT's capacity in detecting CuTsPc in an aqueous solution, which molecule dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and CuPc(SO3−)4 ions, leading to high ionic conductivity and the formation of electrical double layers (EDLs). Varying the concentration of the molecule induced alterations in the EDLs, exhibiting good linearity and sensitivity in the transconductance, and a detection limit of 6.0 × 10−8 mol l−1. Transistors employing the CuTsPc solution as electrolyte operated at low voltages and performed better than water-gated transistors (W-GTs). The transconductance (gm) value for EGTs using CuTsPc solution reached 1.93 mS, while for W-GTs it was around 0.10 mS. Thus, the CuTsPc solution not only serves as a target-molecule in sensor measurements, but also demonstrates potential as an electrolyte in EGTs, thereby assuming a dual role within the device. The main advantage of the EGTs as an analytical tool is their use as a multiparameter device that enables the detection of the analytes using different phenomena that occur at the EDLs interface and which, consequently, changes the device's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen generation via water decomposition is a promising avenue in the pursuit of large-scale, cost-effective renewable hydrogen energy generation. However, the design of an efficient photocatalyst plays a crucial role in achieving high yields in hydrogen generation. Herein, we have engineered a fullerene-2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octa(octyloxy)copper phthalocyanine (C60-CuPcOC8) photocatalyst, achieving both efficient hydrogen generation and high stability. The significant donor–acceptor (D–A) interactions facilitate the efficient electron transfer from CuPcOC8 to C60. The rate of photocatalytic hydrogen generation for C60-CuPcOC8 is 8.32 mmol·g−1·h−1, which is two orders of magnitude higher than the individual C60 and CuPcOC8. The remarkable increase in hydrogen generation activity can be attributed to the development of a robust internal electric field within the C60-CuPcOC8 assembly. It is 16.68 times higher than that of the pure CuPcOC8. The strong internal electric field facilitates the rapid separation within 0.6 ps, enabling photogenerated charge transfer efficiently. Notably, the hydrogen generation efficiency of C60-CuPcOC8 remains above 95%, even after 10 h, showing its exceptional photocatalytic stability. This study provides critical insight into advancing the field of photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focused on the electrochemical detection of metoprolol (MTP) in food products and biological fluids using modified electrodes made of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanostructures for monitoring athlete doping. The g-C3N4/CuPc nanocomposite was successfully prepared, as shown by the findings of SEM, EDX, XRD, and FT-IR studies, and CuPc anchoring rod-like structures are anchored on the g-C3N4 nanosheets. GCE, CuPc/GCE, and g-C3N4/GCE all displayed lower oxidation peaks towards addition MTP, according to electrochemical tests utilizing CV and DPV. The detection limit, sensitivity, and linear range of the sensor were determined to be 10 nM, 0.06783 µA/µM, and 8 to 1760 µM, respectively. The sensor also displayed notable reactivity and selectivity towards MTP. We looked into the capacity of g-C3N4/CuPc/GCE to quantify the amount of MTP in prepared samples made from human serum and apple juice. The outcomes of the analytical evaluations, which used the common addition approach and the DPV as their target, showed how well g-C3N4/CuPc/GCE worked to identify the presence of MTP in biological fluids and food samples. The assays demonstrated strong accuracy, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 4.63%, and good recoveries ranging from 98.40 to 99.60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the facile strategy of preparing filamentous copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) based gas sensors using a solution method was studied. Electrical and gas sensitive properties of filamentous CuPc films transistors were studied in detail. The filamentous CuPc films had a three-dimensional and porous structure, the gas analytes could interact more effectively with the gas sensitive layers, and the efficiency of charge carrier conversion into conductive channel increased, thus improving the sensing performance of the sensors. The relative responsivities of 75 mg mL−1 filamentous CuPc films sensors to 20 ppm NO2 gas were 32797%. The response rate was 80%. The sensitivity was 1492%/ppm. The LOD was 0.3 ppm. The successful preparation of filamentous CuPc films and their application in sensors lay a foundation for the future application of phthalocyanine materials in the field of flexible sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bi-copper synergistic covalent organic framework (COF) electrocatalyst is first reported for efficient electrochemical nitrate reduction, which provides a new direction for the rational design of organic electrocatalysts to remove nitrate from wastewater. [Display omitted] Electrochemical reduction has emerged as an effective method to remove nitrate from industrial wastewater. Nevertheless, this method has been largely restricted by the lack of low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts. Here, we demonstrate a porous two-dimensional covalent organic framework (2D COF) material as a promising electrocatalyst, which is obtained via a Schiff base reaction by combining copper phthalocyanine with bipyridine sites for precise copper coordination. The bidentate coordinated COF material has a robust framework and stable chemical property, allowing the isolated Cu sites to be embedded into the regular pores with controlled and uniformly dispersed active centers. The well-defined design of the reaction monomers makes the COF material to trap nitrate ions more easily from aqueous solution. By rationally combining the synergistic effect of 2D COF and Cu active sites, the CuTAPc-CuBPy-COF electrocatalyst shows much higher nitrate reduction efficiency than CuTAPc-BPy-COF under low superpotential and different nitrate concentrations. The high NO 3 − conversion (90.3 %) and NH 3 selectivity (69.6 %) are achieved. To our best acknowledge, this is the first demonstration of bi-copper-based COF material for NO 3 −RR electrocatalysis, which provides a new direction for the rational design of COFs as significant electrocatalysts for nitrate reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1D organic semiconductor nanostructures have attracted considerable attention; however, only a few studies are conducted on p–n junction organic semiconductor 1D nanostructures. Herein, p‐ and n‐type and p–n junction phthalocyanine (Pc) nanorods are grown in the out‐of‐plane direction of a substrate via vacuum deposition using typical organic semiconductors with copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) as the p‐type semiconductor and copper octafluorophthalocyanine (F8CuPc) and copper hexadecafluorophthalocyanine (F16CuPc) as the n‐type semiconductors. p–n junction Pc nanorods are fabricated via the continuous deposition of F8CuPc and F16CuPc onto CuPc nanorods. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy reveals that the Pc molecules in the nanorods are perpendicularly aligned, with their molecular planes oriented toward the longitudinal direction of the nanorods. The local current–voltage properties of the nanorods are measured using conductive atomic force microscopy. The hole mobility in the CuPc nanorods is 10 times higher than that in the CuPc thin films. The p–n junction properties of F8CuPc/CuPc nanorods are evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-dimensional nanowire structures composed of perovskite are widely recognized for their exceptional optoelectronic performance and mechanical properties, making them a popular area of investigation in photodetection research. In this work, a perovskite nanowire/copper phthalocyanine heterojunction-based photodetector was fabricated, which exhibits high photoresponse in the visible-near-infrared region. The incorporation of a heterojunction significantly enhanced the photoelectric performance. Specifically, the photoresponsivity and external quantum efficiency of the nanowire-based device were elevated from 58.5 A W−1 and 1.35 × 104% to 84.5 A W−1 and 1.97 × 104% at 532 nm, respectively. The enhanced photoresponse of the heterojunction device can be attributed to the unique microstructure of nanowire arrays. The wrapping of the nanowires by copper phthalocyanine forms heterojunctions with a larger dissociation area, which facilitated exciton dissociation and enhanced device performance. This work provides a promising example for optimizing the performance of nanowire devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although 2D MoS2 alone shows excellent gas-sensing performance, it is prone to stacking when used as the sensitive layer, resulting in insufficient contact with the target gas and lower sensitivity. To solve this, a 2D-MoS2/1D-CuPc heterojunction was prepared with different weight ratios of MoS2 nanosheets to CuPc micro-nanowires, and its room-temperature gas-sensing properties were studied. The response of the 2D-MoS2/1D-CuPc heterojunction to a target gas was related to the weight ratio of MoS2 to CuPc. When the weight ratio of MoS2 to CuPc was 20:7 (7-CM), the gas sensitivity of MoS2/CuPc composites was the best. Compared with the pure MoS2 sensor, the responses of 7-CM to 1000 ppm formaldehyde (CH2O), acetone (C3H6O), ethanol (C2H6O), and 98% RH increased by 122.7, 734.6, 1639.8, and 440.5, respectively. The response of the heterojunction toward C2H6O was twice that of C3H6O and 13 times that of CH2O. In addition, the response time of all sensors was less than 60 s, and the recovery time was less than 10 s. These results provide an experimental reference for the development of high-performance MoS2-based gas sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the structure, size, and composition of two-layered nanoparticles with a silver nanoshell situated in copper phthalocyanine films on the overall optical response of the hybrid nanomaterial was theoretically studied. The characteristics of surface plasmon resonance absorption (SPRA) bands and near-field scattering of the two-layered plasmonic nanospheres were investigated using Mie theory taking into account matrix absorption and internal size effects. It was shown that the SPRA band could be tuned to exciton absorption bands of the organic component by varying the refractive index and volume fraction of the dielectric core in nanoparticles with metal nanoshells. Two attenuation peaks with comparable intensities that were sensitive to a change of the system optical and geometric parameters were observed in a strong coupling regime in the visible spectral region. The results could be used to develop nanostructured functional elements for nanophotonics, photovoltaics, and sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Femtosecond time-resolved pump–probe absorption kinetic spectroscopy was used to show that the presence of plasmonic silver nanoparticles in Ag–CuPc hybrid thin-fi lm nanocomposites leads to a significant reduction in the relaxation time of induced absorption from an excited singlet state of copper phthalocyanine fi lm as compared to the pure fi lm. The observed effect is associated with intersystem crossing acceleration in CuPc molecules located in a nonuniform field near the surface of plasmonic silver nanoparticles in the hybrid nanocomposite. The detected effects were demonstrated to depend on the thickness of the copper phthalocyanine layers in the hybrid (Ag–CuPc)nAg nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, copper phthalocyanine and polystyrene composite superfine fibers were readily prepared by electrospinning technology. After treating these composite fibers with paraformaldehyde in concentrated H2SO4 solution, the copper phthalocyanine molecules were covalently bonded to the polystyrene molecules. Meanwhile, the polystyrene molecules in the fibers were cross-linked to endow these fibers with excellent solvent resistance. The photocatalytic performance of this novel fibrous catalyst was evaluated by photodegradation of methyl orange in the presence of H2O2. The effects of light source, H2O2 dosage, catalyst loading, and temperature on the fiber catalyzed photodegradation of methyl orange were carefully studied. The photodegradation percentage of methyl orange in aqueous solution was up to ~ 97% under optimized reaction conditions. At last, this fibrous catalyst was readily recovered by simple filtration and reused for three times with satisfied photodegradation activities. In all, we have developed a facile way to prepare copper phthalocyanine functionalized polystyrene superfine fibers with excellent photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second-most significant category of colorants is phthalocyanines, and copper phthalocyanine is the single colorant with the highest sales volume. Phthalocyanine colorants have historically been used as blue and green pigments for printing inks and automobile paints as well as blue/cyan dyes for textiles and paper. To determine how complex the underlying graph was, we employed Shannon's information entropy. Certain degree-based entropies derived from topological indices were estimated. Curve fitting between calculated information entropies and Heat of formation was combined with the numerical and graphical representation of computed results. The Fe Phthalocyanine is based on topological indices, which give a comprehensive picture of potentially significant aspects that could be useful in structurally changing (FePc) for particular applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Cu species with tunable loading supported on N-doped TiO2/C were successfully fabricated utilizing MOFs@CuPc precursors via the pre-anchor and post-pyrolysis strategy. Cu species with tunable loading supported on N-doped TiO2/C were successfully fabricated utilizing MOFs@CuPc precursors via the pre-anchor and post-pyrolysis strategy. Restructured CuN4&Cu4 performed the highest NH3 yield (88.2 mmol h−1 gcata −1) and FE (~94.3%) at − 0.75 V due to optimal adsorption of NO3 − and rapid conversion of the key intermediates.

Pigments on four easel paintings signed by Mohammad Ghaffari (latter Kamal al-Molk), the renowned Persian painter lived from the mid-nineteenth to the mid-twentieth century, kept at the Astan-e Qods-e Razavi Museum (AQRM) in Mashhad, Iran, were identified by micro-X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF), scanning electron microscopy—energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM–EDS) and micro-Raman spectroscopy (µ-Raman). Apart from chrome yellow, green chromium oxide and red ochre, four blue pigments including Prussian blue, artificial ultramarine blue, azurite, blue phthalocyanine PB:16 and seven white pigments including rutile, huntite, lead white, baryte, chalk, gypsum and zinc white were identified on the paintings. Based on the occurrence of rutile and blue phthalocyanine PB:16 and the fact that the signature of the paintings suggests 1875 as the date of executing the paintings, several hypotheses were argued to discuss the latter interventions and the authenticity of the works. Discussions on the birth date and other important milestones of Kamal al-Molk's life accordingly posed serious questions on the authenticity of these paintings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was the preparation of a poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride)-g-polyetheramine (SMA-g-PEA) hyperdispersant that reduces the viscosity of the system and improves the colouring intensities of pigments. Design/methodology/approach: PEA of specific quality was dissolved in propylene glycol methyl ether. SMA was then added according to the required mass ratio. The solution was refluxed for 10 h under a stream of protective N2. The prepared hyperdispersant was then characterised by Fourier-transform infrared, UV–visible and 1H NMR spectroscopies, gel-permeation chromatography and thermogravimetry. Findings: PEA was successfully grafted onto the SMA polymer and the synthesised product was found to be thermally stable. The copolymer with a 6:1 mass ratio is the best dispersant and was used to disperse carbon black, phthalocyanine blue and permanent violet in water-based systems, which helps to improve the application performance of each pigment by reducing the viscosity of the system and improving the colouring intensity of the pigment. The water dispersion is stable and does not exhibit an increase in viscosity after seven days of oven aging at 50°C. Originality/value: SMA-g-PEA water-based hyperdispersants were successfully synthesised. The prepared hyperdispersants help to improve the application performance of each studied pigment by reducing the viscosity of the system and improving the colouring intensity of the pigment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling the vapor-deposited nanoribbons to grow along a consistent orientation will enable the desired in situ integration of functional devices, representing a major technological advance compared to post-growth processing strategies. In this work, n-type F16CuPc molecules are self-assembled into horizontally-oriented nanoribbons with a consistent growth axis after creating periodic hydrophobic nanogrooves on a sapphire surface. Consequently, electrodes are deposited directly on the growth substrate to enable in situ fabrication of photodetectors. Depending on the deposited electrodes, these horizontally-oriented nanoribbons are connected to form a monolithic photodetector with a large sensing area or an on-chip array of photodetectors with multiple detector units. This in situ integration strategy avoids potential structural damage and contamination from impurities associated with post-growth processing steps. Therefore, the vapor-deposited nanoribbons can retain their high quality during the device manufacturing process, which contributes to performance improvement. As a result, the in-situ integrated F16CuPc photodetectors exhibit a sensitive response in the ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV-vis-NIR) region. The response time is on the order of tens of milliseconds, the fastest record ever for the F16CuPc-based photodetectors. Furthermore, statistics from an array of 6 × 6 photodetectors show little variation in their sensitivity and response time, and hence this in situ fabrication scheme will contribute to the implementation of on-chip integrated photodetectors with consistent performance based on bottom-up nanoribbons. Overall, this self-oriented growth provides a versatile option to achieve desired in-situ integrated functional devices based on bottom-up nanoribbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serum levels of uric acid (UA) play an important role in the prevention of diseases. Developing a rapid and accurate way to detect UA is still a meaningful task. Hence, positively charged manganese dioxide nanosheets (MnO2NSs) with an average latter size of 100 nm and an ultra-thin thickness of below 1 nm have been prepared. They can be well dispersed in water and form stable yellow-brown solutions. The MnO2NSs can be decomposed by UA via redox reaction, leading to a decline of a characteristic absorption peak (374 nm) and a color fading of MnO2NSs solution. On this basis, an enzyme-free colorimetric sensing system for the detection of UA has been developed. The sensing system shows many advantages, including a wide linear range of 0.10–50.0 μmol/L, a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.10 μmol/L, a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.047 μmol/L (3σ/m), and rapid response without need of strict time control. Moreover, a simple and convenient visual sensor for UA detection has also been developed by adding an appropriate amount of phthalocyanine to provide a blue background color, which helps to increase visual discrimination. Finally, the strategy has been successfully applied to detect UA in human serum and urine samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limited performance of BiVO4 for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is currently restricted to limited light absorption and rapid carrier recombination. Herein, molecular copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and FeOOH co‐integrated BiVO4 photoanode are prepared by a simple dipping method and demonstrate significantly improved PEC water oxidation activities. The optimized BiVO4/CuPc/FeOOH photoanode attains a photocurrent density of 3.67 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE and maintains the PEC performance without significant decay over a long period of time. In addition, significant increase of charge separation efficiency and decrease of charge transfer resistance of the BiVO4/CuPc/FeOOH photoanode also demonstrate that the hole–electron transfer and water oxidation reaction are promoted. It is found that CuPc has a similar structure to photosensitized chlorophyll, which can broaden the absorption range of BiVO4 in the visible region and improve the photo‐generated carriers transfer in the semiconductor. Whereas the FeOOH layer can rapidly transfer the photo‐generated holes into the electrolyte to participate in the water oxidation reaction as oxygen evolution cocatalyst. This work provides a feasible pathway to improve the PEC water splitting performance of BiVO4 by increasing light absorption and accelerating carrier transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton fabrics with photodynamic performance (BP/CuPc-R/F) were prepared via a facile method and used as an effective photocatalytic system for wastewater treatment in this work. C.I. Reactive Blue 21 (a copper phthalocyanine derivative) and one kind of 3,3′,4,4′-benzophenone derivative (BPTCA) were covalently grafted onto cotton fabrics via conventional dyeing and finishing processes. The resultant photosensitive material (BP/CuPc-R/F) exhibited excellent hydroxyl-radical-generating activity under UVA light. Density functional theory calculation was used to investigate the photosensitizing mechanism and synergistic effect of copper phthalocyanine and benzophenone groups. BP/CuPc-R/F showed a stable activity in the decomposition of C.I. Reactive Black 5, and the degradation rate can still reach above 80% after 4 cycles. The degradation efficiency was enhanced in the condition of alkaline and high temperature (99% degradation at 45 °C in 10 min exposure). Furthermore, it also showed photo-induced antibacterial activity toward Staphylococcus aureus with bacterial reduction rate of 99.99% after 60 min of UVA light illumination. The photosensitive textile provides a facile and efficient approach for the removal of hazardous pollutants and microorganisms in water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Cu species with tunable loading supported on N-doped TiO2/C were successfully fabricated utilizing MOFs@CuPc precursors via the pre-anchor and post-pyrolysis strategy. Cu species with tunable loading supported on N-doped TiO2/C were successfully fabricated utilizing MOFs@CuPc precursors via the pre-anchor and post-pyrolysis strategy. Restructured CuN4&Cu4 performed the highest NH3 yield (88.2 mmol h−1 gcata−1) and FE (~94.3%) at − 0.75 V due to optimal adsorption of NO3− and rapid conversion of the key intermediates. Direct electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NITRR) is a promising strategy to alleviate the unbalanced nitrogen cycle while achieving the electrosynthesis of ammonia. However, the restructuration of the high-activity Cu-based electrocatalysts in the NITRR process has hindered the identification of dynamical active sites and in-depth investigation of the catalytic mechanism. Herein, Cu species (single-atom, clusters, and nanoparticles) with tunable loading supported on N-doped TiO2/C are successfully manufactured with MOFs@CuPc precursors via the pre-anchor and post-pyrolysis strategy. Restructuration behavior among Cu species is co-dependent on the Cu loading and reaction potential, as evidenced by the advanced operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and there exists an incompletely reversible transformation of the restructured structure to the initial state. Notably, restructured CuN4&Cu4 deliver the high NH3 yield of 88.2 mmol h−1 gcata−1 and FE (~ 94.3%) at − 0.75 V, resulting from the optimal adsorption of NO3− as well as the rapid conversion of *NH2OH to *NH2 intermediates originated from the modulation of charge distribution and d-band center for Cu site. This work not only uncovers CuN4&Cu4 have the promising NITRR but also identifies the dynamic Cu species active sites that play a critical role in the efficient electrocatalytic reduction in nitrate to ammonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is crucial to stably operate solid‐state batteries based on lithium‐metal anodes. In this work, the redox state of the PVDF‐b‐PTFE (PVT) solid polymer electrolyte is regulated by introducing fully conjugated copper polyphthalocyanine metal (CuPcLi), improving the electron transfer kinetics to accelerate the decomposition of fluorinated ingredients. As a result, an effective SEI with enriched lithium fluoride forms in situ at the Li/electrolyte interface, which enhances the Li‐ion transport kinetics and regulates the lithium deposition behavior, delivering ultra‐stable lithium plating/stripping performance over 2000 h in the Li//Li half‐cell. In addition, the chemisorption between Cu2+ and O atoms from TFSI− restrains the movement of anions in the electrolyte, and the CuPcLi improves the lithium ion release, exhibiting a high lithium‐ion conductivity of 0.8 mS cm−1 and a high lithium‐ion transference number of 0.74. As a result, the solid polymer electrolyte of PVT‐10CuPcLi paired with LiFePO4 delivers fantastic cyclic performance with a capacity retention of 92% even after 1000 cycles at 1 C at room temperature. When paired with high‐voltage LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) cathode, the cells can be operated at 1 C with superior capacity retention over 88% after 300 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable production of methane (CH4) via the electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) is an appealing approach to simultaneously mitigating carbon emissions and achieving energy storage in chemical bonds. Copper (Cu) is a unique material to produce hydrocarbons and oxygenates. However, selective methane generation on Cu remains a great challenge due to the preferential *CO dimerization pathway toward multi‐carbon (C2+) products at neighboring catalytic sites. Herein, a conjugated copper phthalocyanine polymer (CuPPc) is designed by a facile solid‐state method for highly selective CO2‐to‐CH4 conversion. The spatially isolated CuN4 sites in CuPPc favor the *CO protonation to generate the key *CHO intermediate, thus significantly promoting the formation of CH4. As a result, the CuPPc catalyst exhibits a high CH4 Faradaic efficiency of 55% and a partial current density of 18 mA cm−2 at −1.25 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode. It also stably operates for 12 h. This study may offer a new solution to regulating the chemical environment of the active sites for the development of highly efficient copper‐based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, morphology and in vitro response of electroconductive composite nanofibers were explored for biomedical use. The composite nanofibers were prepared by blending the piezoelectric polymer poly(vinylidene fluoride–trifluorethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) and electroconductive materials with different physical and chemical properties such as copper oxide (CuO), poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT), copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), and methylene blue (MB) resulting in unique combinations of electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, and other desirable properties. Morphological investigation via SEM analysis has remarked some differences in fiber size as a function of the electroconductive phase used, with a reduction of fiber diameters for the composite fibers of 12.43% for CuO, 32.87% for CuPc, 36.46% for P3HT, and 63% for MB. This effect is related to the peculiar electroconductive behavior of fibers: measurements of electrical properties showed the highest ability to transport charges of methylene blue, in accordance with the lowest fibers diameters, while P3HT poorly conducts in air but improves charge transfer during the fiber formation. In vitro assays showed a tunable response of fibers in terms of viability, underlining a preferential interaction of fibroblast cells to P3HT-loaded fibers that can be considered the most suitable for use in biomedical applications. These results provide valuable information for future studies to be addressed at optimizing the properties of composite nanofibers for potential applications in bioengineering and bioelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a triangular molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2) flake as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) platform, we demonstrate the dependency of the Raman enhancement on laser beam polarization and local structure using copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) as probe. Second harmonic generation (SHG) and photoluminescence spectroscopy and microscopy are used to reveal the structural irregularities of the MoSe2 flake. The Raman enhancement in the focus of an azimuthally polarized beam, which possesses exclusively an in-plane electric field component is stronger than the enhancement by a focused radially polarized beam, where the out-of-plane electric field component dominates. This phenomenon indicates that the face-on oriented CuPc molecules strongly interact with the MoSe2 flake via charge transfer and dipole–dipole interaction. Furthermore, the Raman scattering maps on the irregular MoSe2 surface show a distinct correlation with the SHG and photoluminescence optical images, indicating the relationship between local structure and optical properties of the MoSe2 flake. These results contribute to understand the impacts of local structural properties on the Raman enhancement at the surface of the 2D transition-metal dichalcogenide.

Accurate structure‐designed single‐metal‐atom doped covalent organic polymers (COPs) are expected to be one of the most promising nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) electrocatalysts due to their adjustable metal center coordination environment.[1–3] However, pyrolysis of the material is often required to overcome the intrinsically low conductivity of COPs materials, resulting in undesirable structural changes.[4,5] Moreover, the ligand portion connected to the monomer can modulate the electronic state of the catalytic center of the monomer to achieve enhanced kinetics parts of the reaction.[6–8] To overcome this shortcoming, this study reports hybrid electrocatalysts formed by self‐assembling pristine covalent organic polymers (COPs) with oxidized carbon nanotubes (O‐CNT). The electrical conductivity of the hybridized COP/O‐CNT materials can be increased by the O‐CNT. The catalyst attains a FE of 26.8 % and a large NH3 yield rate of 12.3 ug−1 h−1 cm−2 at −0.3 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode. DFT calculations show that the NRR process tends to choose alternation paths. Therefore, the synthesized PCuPc/O‐CNT as a stable, high‐efficiency NRR catalyst offers a valuable reference for single‐atom COPs electrocatalyst research in electrochemical nitrogen fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Study of an 18th-century commitment book of a brotherhood from Minas Gerais Brazil. • Analyses of inks by Raman and EDXRF spectroscopy. • Identification of mixed tempera and watercolor painting techniques. • Prussiates were found in blue, green and purple inks. The statute of the first black's brotherhood founded in the historic city of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil is described in the commitment book of Irmandade de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos from Nossa Senhora do Pilar Parish of Vila Rica, 1750. This book is decorated with several miniature paintings, using a mixed tempera and watercolor technique, in which the blue color is employed throughout. To identify the materials used for the book decoration , 180 measurements of X-ray fluorescence with energy dispersion were performed and nine samples were collected for analysis using Raman spectroscopy. Gold, silver and brass gilding were identified. Iron gall ink was used in the text. In the paints, coloring materials were identified in the blue (indigo, azurite, prussiates and phthalocyanine blue), yellow (iron ochers), red (vermilion and hematite), violet (PV23), white (calcite and lead carbonate) and black (amorphous carbon and graphite) colors. Prussian blue, Berlin green, Berlin white and Na-Prussian white , prussiates, were found as mixtures. The results of the analysis, along with information obtained from historical documentary sources allowed the elucidation of the painting techniques that were employed widespreadly throughout Brazil during the XVIII century. As far as we know, the present work is one of the first reports of the use of Prussian Blue, well documented in Brazil. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Each material is suited to the different paint material characteristics and pictorial techniques of various artworks by contributing to the pictorial surface's stability and visual unity, and the ability to display it without interruption. For this article, the polysaccharide TRI-Funori was tested and used as a binding medium for chromatic reintegration in three oil and acrylic mockups of the artwork by Portuguese artist Jorge Martins. This choice was based on characteristics such as compatibility, low toxicity, water-based properties, and good visual properties for color matching. Advantages such as transparency and less tendency to yellow, capacity to dry matte, and ease of removal were observed. It presents good dispersion of inorganic pigments, good visual properties, and good adhesion to oil and acrylic surfaces with or without preparation. However, it also presents disadvantages such as weak dispersion of organic pigments, for example [PB15] Phthalocyanine Blue or [PR83] Carmine Rose, and the tendency to become powdery. During the drying process, it tends to lighten, making the color adjustment process difficult. The mimetic method, achieved with small dots, was used for retouching. The medium was applied with Ferrario® pigmenti puri and Win- sor & Newton® powdered pigments, and chromatic reintegration was carried out with a fine brush Winsor & Newton® Finest Sable n°1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption is one of the most important techniques for the remediation of textile industry wastewaters containing high concentrations of toxic dyes. Calcium phosphates (CaPs) have been advocated among the most promising adsorbent phases in virtue of their high dye adsorption potential, low production cost, and possible recovery from circular economy sources. In this paper, we investigated the application of synthetic CaPs (CaP–S) and two CaPs extracted from food by-products, namely from bone meal (CaP-BM) and fish bones (CaP-FM) for the removal of a model dye, copper phthalocyanine tri-sulfonic acid, also known as acid blue 185 (AB-185). All the materials were characterized from the physical-chemical point of view and used for the study of adsorption kinetic and isothermal adsorption of AB-185 at neutral, acidic and basic pH values. The best adsorption capacity was obtained for CaP–S, followed by CaP-BM and CaP-FM. Nonetheless, results showed that all the materials can be employed for removing AB-185 from wastewaters of textile industry, and we correlated dye removal efficiency to the adsorbent phase specific surface area (SSA) and ζ-potential, as well as to dye concentration and pH of wastewaters. Finally, as the process used to produce the studied CaPs affects their main final physical-chemical parameters and performance in terms of dyes removal, it is important to consider the variables of CaPs production process (e.g., temperature, time of treatment, grinding etc.), especially when CaPs are recovered from circular economy sources by thermal treatments of food-byproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nonaqueous catalysis of lipases is significant for synthesis of high pure esters, but they usually behave low catalytic activity due to denaturation and aggregation of enzyme protein in organic phases. To improve the nonaqueous catalysis, the inexpensive copper phthalocyanine was taken as a new carrier on which Pseudomonas cepacia lipase was immobilized by physical absorption, and used for synthesis of hexyl acetate, an important flavor, via transesterification of hexanol and vinyl acetate. Results showed that the desired loading was 10 mg lipase immobilized on 10 mg copper phthalocyanine powder. When the immobilized lipase was employed in the reaction system consisted of 1.5 mL hexanol and 1.5 mL vinyl acetate at 37℃ and 160 rpm, the conversion was five fold of that catalyzed by native lipase after 1 h, and reached 99.0% after 8 h. Undergoing six times of 8-h reuses, the immobilized lipase had an activity attenuation rate 1.22% h− 1, lower than 1.77% h− 1 of native lipase, which meant that the immobilized lipase was more stable. Even at the room temperature and the static state without shaking or stirring, the immobilized lipase could bring conversion 42.8% after 10 h and the native lipase gave 20.1%. Obviously, the immobilized lipase is an available biocatalyst in organic phase and has great potential in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photophysical processes occurring within organic semiconductors is important for designing and fabricating organic solar cells. Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) is a typical electron acceptor. In this work, the triplet exciton lifetime is prolonged by altering the molecular stacking pattern of the CuPc film. For CuPc thin films, the excited state decays are mainly determined by the triplet-triplet annihilation process. The ultrafast transient absorption measurements indicate that the primary annihilation mechanism is one-dimensional exciton diffusion collision destruction. The decay kinetics show a clearly time-dependent annihilation rate constant with γ∝t−1/2. Annihilation rate constants are determined to be γ0 = (2.87±0.02)×10−20 cm3·s−1/2 and (1.42±0.02)×10−20 cm3·s−1/2 for upright and lying-down configurations, respectively. Compared to the CuPc thin film with an upright configuration, the thin film with a lying-down configuration shows longer exciton lifetime and higher absorbance, which are beneficial to organic solar cells. The results in this work have important implications on the design and mechanistic understanding of organic optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts assumed that properly designed bimetallic systems would provide superior catalytic performance due to the cooperative effects between two atoms. Dual single‐atom catalyst (DSAC) PdN4/CuN4 is synthesized using a simple, cost‐effective, and efficient electrochemical reduction method. The palladium single‐atom is prepared first by electrochemical reduction of copper phthalocyanine to create defective N4 sites. The new structural feature is characterized by copper reduction from Cu‐N4 coordination and the formation of defected N4 (▫M‐N4) sites, which react with a Pd precursor and form PdN4 on the host surface. The DSAC PdN4/CuN4 technique synergistically improves electrocatalytic performance toward the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction. It possesses excellent glycolate selectivity (above 88%) in an alkaline solution with an onset oxidation potential as low as 0.6 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode, compared to commercial Pd/C. The DSAC electrocatalyst is characterized by its high current density of 83.92 mA cm−2 and high faradic efficiency value (>80%) for glycolate at 1.0 VRHE. The findings suggest a promising method to synthesize the DSACs in varying transition metals to achieve highly efficient, selective, and environmentally friendly catalysts for different applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper phthalocyanine on carbon (CuPc/C) after pyrolysis exhibits a C2H4 Faradaic efficiency (FEC2H4) of 42.6 ± 0.5% at an extremely low potential of −0.4 V vs. RHE toward the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), significantly boosted by the in situ oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liu Kang (1911–2004) was a Chinese artist who settled in Singapore in 1945 and eventually became a leading modern artist in Singapore. He received academic training in Shanghai (1926–1928) and Paris (1929–1932). Liu Kang's frequent visits to China from the 1970s to the 1990s contributed to a special artistic subject—the Huangshan and Guilin mountains. This subject matter triggered an uncommon painting approach for his oeuvre. In this context, this study elucidates the artist's choice of materials and methods for the execution of 11 paintings, dating between 1977 and 1996, depicting Huangshan and Guilin landscapes. The paintings belong to the collection of the National Gallery Singapore. They were investigated with a combination of non- and micro-invasive techniques, supplemented by a wealth of documentary sources and art history research. The obtained results highlight the predominant use of hardboards resembling Masonite® Presdwood® without the application of an intermediate ground layer. Commercially prepared cotton and linen painting supports were used less frequently, and their structure and ground composition were variable. This study revealed the use of a conventional colour base for the execution of the paintings—a consistent colour scheme favouring ultramarine, yellow and red iron-containing earths, viridian and titanium white. Less commonly used pigments include Prussian blue, cobalt blue, phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, naphthol red AS-D, umber, Cr-containing yellow(s), cadmium yellow or its variant(s), Hansa yellow G, lithopone and/or barium white and zinc white and bone black. The documentary sources indirectly pointed to the use of Royal Talens, Rowney and Winsor & Newton, brands of oil paints. Moreover, technical and archival findings indicated the artist's tendency to recycle rejected compositions, thereby strongly suggesting that the paintings were executed in the studio. Although this study focuses on the Singapore artist and his series of paintings relating to China, it contributes to existing international studies of modern artists' materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Template-assisted growth of ordered nanomaterials was used to prepare periodic copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanoparticles on the Au(111) substrate. The structures were studied by ultra-high vacuum scanning tunneling microscope (STM). At the first step, Fe atoms were deposited onto the reconstructed ( 22 × 3 ) Au(111) surface and they formed the array of triangular islands at the elbows of the herringbone reconstruction. High-purity CuPc molecules were subsequently evaporated to this prestructured surface at low coverages. CuPc molecules chose to adsorb at the edge of Fe islands and formed the flower-shaped ordered nanostructures. When the coverage reached ~ 1.0 monolayer, ordered CuPc nanoparticles situated on Fe islands with the self-assembled CuPc monolayer around. The method of template-assisted growth can be used to prepare other organic nanostructures which are stable at room temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous passivation of the defects at the surface and grain boundaries of perovskite films is crucial to achieve efficient and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). It is highly desirable to accomplish the above passivation through rational engineering of hole transport materials (HTMs) in combination with appropriate procedure optimization. Here, methylthiotriphenylamine‐substituted copper phthalocyanine (SMe‐TPA‐CuPc) is reported as a dopant‐free HTM for PSCs, exhibiting excellent efficiency, and stability. After thermal annealing, SMe‐TPA‐CuPc molecules diffused into the bulk of the perovskite film and effectively passivated the defects in the bulk and at the interface of the perovskite, owing to the strong interaction between the methylthio moiety and undercoordinated lead. The best‐performing annealed SMe‐TPA‐CuPc‐based device shows efficiency of 21.51%, which is higher than the unannealed SMe‐TPA‐CuPc‐based device (power‐conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.75%) and reference doped spiro‐OMeTAD‐based device (PCE of 20.61%). Further modification of the perovskite of the annealed SMe‐TPA‐CuPc‐based device by the QAPyBF4 additive result in even higher efficiency of 23.0%. It also shows excellent stability, maintaining 96% of its initial efficiency after 3624 h aging at 85 °C. This work highlights the great potential of phthalocyanine‐based dopant‐free HTMs and the defect passivation by thermal‐induced molecular diffusion strategy for developing highly efficient and stable PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]