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Crystals, Volume 10, Issue 7 (July 2020) – 80 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): X-ray free-electron lasers have a unique capability for time-resolved studies of protein dynamics and conformational changes on femto- and pico-second timescales. The extreme intensity of X-ray pulses can potentially cause significant modifications to the sample structure during exposure. Successful time-resolved XFEL crystallography depends on the unambiguous interpretation of the protein dynamics of interest resulting from the effects of radiation damage. Due to the higher X-ray ionization cross-section for relatively heavier elements, such as sulfur or metals, proteins containing such elements have a higher risk of radiation damage. An ongoing challenge with such local damage is to understand the residual bonding in these locally ionized systems and bond-breaking dynamics. View this paper
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11 pages, 1768 KiB  
Article
High-Temperature Evolution of the Incommensurate Composite Crystal Ca0.83CuO2
by Lara Righi, Marco Merlini and Mauro Gemmi
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070630 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2231
Abstract
The crystal structure of the composite crystal Ca0.83CuO2 was investigated by synchrotron powder diffraction at high temperature. The incommensurate modulated structure was firstly analyzed at room temperature (RT) and successfully solved by adopting the (3D + 1)-dimensional symmetry P21 [...] Read more.
The crystal structure of the composite crystal Ca0.83CuO2 was investigated by synchrotron powder diffraction at high temperature. The incommensurate modulated structure was firstly analyzed at room temperature (RT) and successfully solved by adopting the (3D + 1)-dimensional symmetry P21/m(α0γ)0s. The composite crystal is featured by a non-uniform distribution of Ca ions occupying octahedral sites formed by the spatial arrangement by the infinite 1D CuO2 chains. By approaching 500 K, Ca0.83CuO2 undergoes a structural rearrangement ruled by the shrinking of the Ca interatomic distances. The high-temperature crystalline phase is characterized by a different incommensurate periodicity requiring the recombination of the Ca/CuO2 balance featuring the composite intergrowth of the two almost independent sub-structures. We ascertain that the new crystalline form is stable up to 950 K near to the limit of the thermal decomposition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
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18 pages, 4713 KiB  
Article
Fast Growth of Multi-Phase MoOx Synthesized by Laser Direct Writing Using Femtosecond Pulses
by Santiago Camacho-Lopez, Miroslava Cano-Lara and Marco Camacho-Lopez
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070629 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2401
Abstract
Molybdenum oxide is an attractive material for application in several technology fields such as sensors, displays, and batteries, among many others. In this work, we present a reliable laser direct writing (LDW) method for synthesizing multi-phase molybdenum oxide (MoOx) on a [...] Read more.
Molybdenum oxide is an attractive material for application in several technology fields such as sensors, displays, and batteries, among many others. In this work, we present a reliable laser direct writing (LDW) method for synthesizing multi-phase molybdenum oxide (MoOx) on a single processing step. We use femtosecond laser pulses to produce up to five distinct crystalline phases of molybdenum oxide at once. We demonstrate how the laser irradiation conditions determine the MoOx stoichiometry, phase, and morphology. We show that by conveniently adjusting either the per-pulse laser fluence or the exposure time, MoOx can be obtained in nano or micro-structured form. We found that this ultrashort pulse laser processing method allows for the formation of unusual MoOx phases such as o-Mo18O52, which is rarely reported in the literature. In addition, it is possible to synthesize other sub-stoichiometric molybdenum oxide phases such as o-Mo4O11 and m-Mo8O23 all at atmospheric air conditions, with no need for demanding oxygen pressure precautions. Full article
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16 pages, 20190 KiB  
Review
Pump-Probe Time-Resolved Serial Femtosecond Crystallography at X-Ray Free Electron Lasers
by Suraj Pandey, Ishwor Poudyal and Tek Narsingh Malla
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070628 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5633
Abstract
With time-resolved crystallography (TRX), it is possible to follow the reaction dynamics in biological macromolecules by investigating the structure of transient states along the reaction coordinate. X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) have enabled TRX experiments on previously uncharted femtosecond timescales. Here, we review [...] Read more.
With time-resolved crystallography (TRX), it is possible to follow the reaction dynamics in biological macromolecules by investigating the structure of transient states along the reaction coordinate. X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) have enabled TRX experiments on previously uncharted femtosecond timescales. Here, we review the recent developments, opportunities, and challenges of pump-probe TRX at XFELs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Time Resolved Crystallography)
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30 pages, 10446 KiB  
Review
On Directional Dendritic Growth and Primary Spacing—A Review
by Joel Strickland, Bogdan Nenchev and Hongbiao Dong
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070627 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 10854
Abstract
The primary spacing is intrinsically linked with the mechanical behavior of directionally solidified materials. Because of this relationship, a significant amount of solidification work is reported in the literature, which relates the primary spacing to the process variables. This review provides a comprehensive [...] Read more.
The primary spacing is intrinsically linked with the mechanical behavior of directionally solidified materials. Because of this relationship, a significant amount of solidification work is reported in the literature, which relates the primary spacing to the process variables. This review provides a comprehensive chronological narrative on the development of the directional dendritic growth problem over the past 85 years. A key focus within this review is detailing the relationship between key solidification parameters, the operating point of the dendrite tip, and the primary spacing. This review critiques the current state of directional dendritic growth and primary spacing modelling, briefly discusses dendritic growth computational and experimental research, and suggests areas for future investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
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7 pages, 1659 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Operating Temperature on the Response Time of Optically Driven Liquid Crystal Displays
by Vladimir Chigrinov, Jiatong Sun, Mikhail M. Kuznetsov, Victor Belyaev and Denis Chausov
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 626; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070626 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2313
Abstract
Optically driven liquid crystal displays (ODLCDs) realizes their display function by tuning the easy axis of liquid crystal (LC) molecules under polarized blue light, which has been utilized in some optical devices due to its advantages of ultra-low power consumption. However, a big [...] Read more.
Optically driven liquid crystal displays (ODLCDs) realizes their display function by tuning the easy axis of liquid crystal (LC) molecules under polarized blue light, which has been utilized in some optical devices due to its advantages of ultra-low power consumption. However, a big issue arises in response time, i.e., the rewriting time of the ODLCD. The rewriting time of ODLCD samples was studied. Rotational viscosity plays a very important role for decreasing the rewriting time of the ODLCD. The operating temperature was changed from room temperature to nearly clearing point, the rewriting time decreased a lot as the rotational viscosity decreased for the five different kinds of the LCs. The rewriting time can be decreased from 5.2 s to 0.2 s around 25 times for the LC N4. Full article
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28 pages, 4774 KiB  
Article
Effect of Aggregate Type and Specimen Configuration on Concrete Compressive Strength
by Sherif Yehia, Akmal Abdelfatah and Doaa Mansour
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070625 - 19 Jul 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5001
Abstract
In this paper, concrete mixes utilizing two sizes of natural aggregate and two sources of lightweight and recycled aggregates were used to investigate the effect of aggregate type and specimen size and shape on the compressive strength of concrete. In addition, samples from [...] Read more.
In this paper, concrete mixes utilizing two sizes of natural aggregate and two sources of lightweight and recycled aggregates were used to investigate the effect of aggregate type and specimen size and shape on the compressive strength of concrete. In addition, samples from ready-mix concrete producers with different strengths were evaluated using standard size cylinders and cubes. Results were obtained on the 7th, 28th, and 90th day. In addition, flexural strength, split tension, and modulus of elasticity were evaluated on the 28th and 90th day. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine the significance of the difference between the compressive strength values for each two mixes using tests of hypotheses. Moreover, other mechanical properties as a function of compressive strength were discussed and compared to those predicated by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) specifications. Results indicate specimen shape has a noticeable effect on the compressive strength as the Cylinder/Cube ratio on the 90th day was ranging between 0.781 and 0.929. The concrete compressive strength and modulus of elasticity were significantly affected by the aggregate type. The flexural strength and split tensile strength were less affected by the aggregate type, which was also confirmed by the values predicted with the ACI equations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Study of Concrete)
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12 pages, 16516 KiB  
Article
Omindirectional Non-Reciprocity via 2D Modulated Radial Sonic Crystals
by Davide Enrico Quadrelli, Emanuele Riva, Gabriele Cazzulani and Francesco Braghin
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070624 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2663
Abstract
In this paper we report on nonreciprocal wave propagation in a 2D radial sonic crystal with space–time varying properties. We show that a modulation traveling along the radial direction reflects in omni-directional and isotropic nonreciprocal wave propagation between inner and outer shells. The [...] Read more.
In this paper we report on nonreciprocal wave propagation in a 2D radial sonic crystal with space–time varying properties. We show that a modulation traveling along the radial direction reflects in omni-directional and isotropic nonreciprocal wave propagation between inner and outer shells. The nonreciprocal behavior is verified both analytically and numerically, demonstrating that space–time radial crystals can be employed as one-way emitter or receiver of acoustic or elastic signals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trends in Phononic Crystals)
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18 pages, 5916 KiB  
Article
The Convolutional Multiple Whole Profile (CMWP) Fitting Method, a Global Optimization Procedure for Microstructure Determination
by Gábor Ribárik, Bertalan Jóni and Tamás Ungár
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070623 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6956
Abstract
The analysis of line broadening in X-ray and neutron diffraction patterns using profile functions constructed on the basis of well-established physical principles and TEM observations of lattice defects has proven to be a powerful tool for characterizing microstructures in crystalline materials. These principles [...] Read more.
The analysis of line broadening in X-ray and neutron diffraction patterns using profile functions constructed on the basis of well-established physical principles and TEM observations of lattice defects has proven to be a powerful tool for characterizing microstructures in crystalline materials. These principles are applied in the convolutional multiple-whole-profile (CMWP) procedure to determine dislocation densities, crystallite size, stacking fault and twin boundary densities, and intergranular strains. The different lattice defect contributions to line broadening are separated by considering the hkl dependence of strain anisotropy, planar defect broadening and peak shifts, and the defect dependent profile shapes. The Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) peak fitting procedure can be used successfully to determine crystal defect types and densities as long as the diffraction patterns are relatively simple. However, in more complicated cases like hexagonal materials or multiple-phase patterns, using the LM procedure alone may cause uncertainties. Here, we extended the CMWP procedure by including a Monte Carlo statistical method where the LM and a Monte Carlo algorithm were combined in an alternating manner. The updated CMWP procedure eliminated uncertainties and provided global optimized parameters of the microstructure in good correlation with electron microscopy methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue X-ray and neutron Line Profile Analysis of Microstructures)
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8 pages, 2103 KiB  
Editorial
Natural vs. Synthetic Zeolites
by Magdalena Król
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070622 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 102 | Viewed by 18938
Abstract
This brief review article describes the structure, properties and applications of natural and synthetic zeolites, with particular emphasis on zeolites obtained from natural or waste materials. Certainly, such short work does not exhaust the complexity of the problem, but it sheds light on [...] Read more.
This brief review article describes the structure, properties and applications of natural and synthetic zeolites, with particular emphasis on zeolites obtained from natural or waste materials. Certainly, such short work does not exhaust the complexity of the problem, but it sheds light on some outstanding issues on this subject. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zeolites)
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12 pages, 1890 KiB  
Article
Optical Characterization of GaN-Based Vertical Blue Light-Emitting Diodes on P-Type Silicon Substrate
by Yu Lei, Hui Wan, Bin Tang, Shuyu Lan, Jiahao Miao, Zehong Wan, Yingce Liu and Shengjun Zhou
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070621 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4321
Abstract
Fabricating GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on a silicon (Si) substrate, which is compatible with the widely employed complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) circuits, is extremely important for next-generation high-performance electroluminescence devices. We conducted a systematic investigation of the optical properties of vertical LEDs, to reveal [...] Read more.
Fabricating GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on a silicon (Si) substrate, which is compatible with the widely employed complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) circuits, is extremely important for next-generation high-performance electroluminescence devices. We conducted a systematic investigation of the optical properties of vertical LEDs, to reveal the impacts of the manufacturing process on their optical characteristics. Here, we fabricated and characterized high-efficiency GaN-based LEDs with integrated surface textures including micro-scale periodic hemispherical dimples and nano-scale random hexagonal pyramids on a 4 inch p-type Si substrate. The highly reflective Ag/TiW metallization scheme was performed to decrease downward-absorbing light. We demonstrated the influence of transferring LED epilayers from a sapphire substrate onto the Si substrate on the emission characteristics of the vertical LEDs. The removal of the sapphire substrate reduced the adverse impacts of the quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE). The influence of integrated surface textures on the light extraction efficiency (LEE) of the vertical LEDs was studied. With the injection current of 350 mA, vertical LEDs with integrated surface textures demonstrated an excellent light output power of 468.9 mW with an emission peak wavelength of 456 nm. This work contributes to the integration of GaN-based vertical LEDs into Si-based integrated circuits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue GaN-Based Optoelectronic Materials and Light Emitting Devices)
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16 pages, 10794 KiB  
Article
Structure and Surface Morphology Effect on the Cytotoxicity of [Al2O3/ZnO]n/316L SS Nanolaminates Growth by Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)
by D. Osorio, J. Lopez, H. Tiznado, Mario H. Farias, M. A. Hernandez-Landaverde, M. Ramirez-Cardona, J. M. Yañez-Limon, J. O. Gutierrez, J. C. Caicedo and G. Zambrano
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070620 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2607
Abstract
Recently, different biomedical applications of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and zinc oxide (ZnO) have been studied, and they have displayed good biocompatible behavior. For this reason, this study explores nanolaminates of [Al2O3/ZnO]n obtained by atomic [...] Read more.
Recently, different biomedical applications of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and zinc oxide (ZnO) have been studied, and they have displayed good biocompatible behavior. For this reason, this study explores nanolaminates of [Al2O3/ZnO]n obtained by atomic layer deposition (ALD) on silicon (100) and 316L stainless steel substrates with different bilayer periods: n = 1, 2, 5, and 10. The intention is to correlate the structure, chemical bonds, morphology, and electrochemical properties of ZnO and Al2O3 single layers and [Al2O3/ZnO]n nanolaminates with their cytotoxic and biocompatibility behavior, to establish their viability for biomedical applications in implants based on the 316L SS substrate. These nanolaminates have been characterized by grazing incident X-ray diffraction (XRD), finding diffraction planes for wurtzite type structure from zincite. The chemical bonding and composition for both single layers were identified through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The morphology and roughness were tested with atomic force microscopy (AFM), which showed a reduction in roughness and grain size with a bilayer period increase. The thickness of the samples was measured with scanning electron microscopy, and the results confirmed the value of ~210 nm for the nanolaminate samples. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis with Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS) evidenced an evolution of [Al2O3/ZnO]n/316L system corrosion resistance of around 95% in relation with the uncoated steel substrate as function of the increase in the bilayers number. To identify the biocompatibility behavior of these nanolaminate systems, the lactate dehydrogenase test was performed with Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells for a short system of life cell evaluation. This test shows the cytotoxicity of the multilayer compared to the single layers of Al2O3, ZnO, and 316L stainless steel. The lowest cytotoxicity was found in the single layers of ZnO, which leads to cell proliferation easier than Al2O3, obtaining better adhesion and anchoring to its surface. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Oxide Based Thin-Film Materials (Volume II))
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8 pages, 4520 KiB  
Article
Growth of Lu2O3 and HfO2 Based High Melting Temperature Single Crystals by Indirect Heating Method Using Arc Plasma
by Kyoung Jin Kim, Kei Kamada, Rikito Murakami, Takahiko Horiai, Shiori Ishikawa, Vladimir V. Kochurikhin, Masao Yoshino, Akihiro Yamaji, Yasuhiro Shoji, Shunsuke Kurosawa, Satoshi Toyoda, Hiroki Sato, Yuui Yokota, Yuji Ohashi and Akira Yoshikawa
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070619 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2010
Abstract
A novel single-crystal growth method was developed, using arc plasma and metal melt, for a quick survey of high melting point materials. Single crystals of Yb-doped Lu2O3, Lu0.388Hf0.612O1.806, and Lu0.18Hf0.82 [...] Read more.
A novel single-crystal growth method was developed, using arc plasma and metal melt, for a quick survey of high melting point materials. Single crystals of Yb-doped Lu2O3, Lu0.388Hf0.612O1.806, and Lu0.18Hf0.82O1.91, with melting points of 2460, 2900, and 2840 °C, respectively, were grown by an indirect heating method using arc plasma. We refer to this indirect heating growth method as the core heating (CH) method. The CH-grown Yb1%-doped Lu2O3 sample showed a full width at half maximum of 286 arcsec in the X-ray rocking curve. This value is better than the 393 arcsec obtained for the crystal grown by the micro-pulling-down (μ-PD) method. The Yb charge transfer state (CTS) emission was observed at 350 nm in the Yb1%-doped Lu2O3 and Lu0.18Hf0.82O1.91. In the case of the μ-PD method, using a rhenium (Re) crucible, absorption due to Re contamination and a resulting reduction in the Yb CTS emission were confirmed. However, contamination did not influence the properties observed in the crystals grown by the CH method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inorganic Crystalline Materials)
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14 pages, 5557 KiB  
Article
Limits of Solid Solutions and Thermal Deformations in the L-Alanine–L-Serine Amino Acid System
by Elena Kotelnikova, Roman Sadovnichii, Lyudmila Kryuchkova and Heike Lorenz
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070618 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2389
Abstract
The limits of solid solutions and thermal deformations in the L-alanine–L-serine (L-ala–L-ser) amino acid system have been determined. Thirteen amino acid mixtures with various proportions of the components L-ser/L-ala were studied using powder X-ray diffraction techniques. It was found that the regions of [...] Read more.
The limits of solid solutions and thermal deformations in the L-alanine–L-serine (L-ala–L-ser) amino acid system have been determined. Thirteen amino acid mixtures with various proportions of the components L-ser/L-ala were studied using powder X-ray diffraction techniques. It was found that the regions of solid solutions in the system are rather limited and cover less than 10 mol. % from each component side. The thermal behavior of the components L-ser and L-ala and the composition L-ser/L-ala = 90/10 were studied by temperature-resolved powder X-ray diffraction. The heating of L-ser and L-ala only causes thermal deformations, while two-phase mixtures with the 90/10 L-ser/L-ala ratio form solid solutions at elevated temperatures. Additionally, the parameters of the thermal deformation tensor for L-ser and L-ala were calculated, and the figures of their thermal expansion coefficients were plotted and analyzed. The study conducted is of high applicability, since amino acids are active components of various biological, geological, and technological processes, including those at elevated temperatures, and have numerous applications in life-science industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Industrial Crystallization)
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35 pages, 3713 KiB  
Review
Zeolite-Like Boron Imidazolate Frameworks (BIFs): Synthesis and Application
by Vera I. Isaeva, Kostantinos E. Papathanasiou and Leonid M. Kustov
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070617 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5192
Abstract
This review is devoted to discussion of the latest advances in design and applications of boron imidazolate frameworks (BIFs) that are a particular sub-family of zeolite-like metal–organic frameworks family. A special emphasis is made on nanostructured hybrid materials based on BIF matrices and [...] Read more.
This review is devoted to discussion of the latest advances in design and applications of boron imidazolate frameworks (BIFs) that are a particular sub-family of zeolite-like metal–organic frameworks family. A special emphasis is made on nanostructured hybrid materials based on BIF matrices and their modern applications, especially in environment remediation and energy conversion. Full article
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23 pages, 5946 KiB  
Article
N/N Bridge Type and Substituent Effects on Chemical and Crystallographic Properties of Schiff-Base (Salen/Salphen) Niii Complexes
by Cynthia S. Novoa-Ramírez, Areli Silva-Becerril, Fiorella L. Olivera-Venturo, Juan Carlos García-Ramos, Marcos Flores-Alamo and Lena Ruiz-Azuara
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070616 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5610
Abstract
In total, 13 ligands R-salen (N,N’-bis(5-R-salicylidene)ethylenediamine (where R = MeO, Me, OH, H, Cl, Br, NO2) and R-salphen (N,N’-bis(5-R-salicylidene)-1,2-phenylenediamine (where R = MeO, Me, OH, H, Cl, Br) and their 13 nickel complexes NiRsalen and NiRsalphen were [...] Read more.
In total, 13 ligands R-salen (N,N’-bis(5-R-salicylidene)ethylenediamine (where R = MeO, Me, OH, H, Cl, Br, NO2) and R-salphen (N,N’-bis(5-R-salicylidene)-1,2-phenylenediamine (where R = MeO, Me, OH, H, Cl, Br) and their 13 nickel complexes NiRsalen and NiRsalphen were synthesized and characterized using IR (infrared) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), UV-vis (ultraviolet-visible) spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and X-ray crystal diffraction. Previous studies have shown that all complexes have presented a square planar geometry in a solid state and as a solution (DMSO). In electrochemical studies, it was observed that in N/N aliphatic bridge complexes, the NiII underwent two redox reactions, which were quasi-reversible process, and the half-wave potential followed a trend depending on the ligand substituent in the 5,5’-R position. The electron-donor substituent—as -OH, and -CH3 decreased the E1/2 potential—favored the reductor ability of nickel. The crystals of the complexes NiMesalen, NiMeOsalen, NiMeOsalphen, and Nisalphen were obtained. It was shown that the crystal packaging corresponded to monoclinic systems in the first three cases, as well as the triclinic for Nisalphen. The Hirshfeld surface analysis showed that the packaging was favored by H∙∙∙H and C∙∙∙H/H∙∙∙C interactions, and C-H∙∙∙O hydrogen bridges when the substituent was -MeO and π-stacking was added to an aromatic bridge. Replacing the N/N bridge with an aromatic ring decreased distortion in square-planar geometry where the angles O-Ni-N formed a perfect square-planar. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue σ- and π-Hole Interactions)
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11 pages, 2907 KiB  
Article
The Design Strategy for an Aggregation- and Crystallization-Induced Emission-Active Molecule Based on the Introduction of Skeletal Distortion by Boron Complexation with a Tridentate Ligand
by Shunsuke Ohtani, Masayuki Gon, Kazuo Tanaka and Yoshiki Chujo
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070615 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3005
Abstract
We describe here a new design strategy for obtaining boron complexes with aggregation- and crystallization-induced emission (AIE and CIE, respectively) properties based on the introduction of skeletal distortion. According to our recent results, despite the fact that an almost planar structure and robust [...] Read more.
We describe here a new design strategy for obtaining boron complexes with aggregation- and crystallization-induced emission (AIE and CIE, respectively) properties based on the introduction of skeletal distortion. According to our recent results, despite the fact that an almost planar structure and robust conjugation were obtained, the boron azomethine complex provided a slight emission in solution and an enhanced emission in aggregation and crystal. Quantum calculation results propose that unexpected emission annihilation in solution could be caused through intramolecular bending in the excited state. Herein, to realize this unique molecular motion and obtain AIE and CIE molecules, the phenyl quinoline-based boron complexes BPhQ and BPhQm with distorted and planar structures were designed and synthesized, respectively. BPhQm showed emission in solution and aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ, BPhQm: ΦF,sol. = 0.21, ΦF,agg. = 0.072, ΦF,cryst. = 0.051), while BPhQ exhibited a typical AIE and CIE (BPhQ: ΦF,sol. = 0.008, ΦF,agg. = 0.014, ΦF,cryst. = 0.017). The optical data suggest that a large degree of molecular motion should occur in BPhQ after photo-excitation because of the intrinsic skeletal distortion. Furthermore, single-crystal X-ray diffraction data indicate that the distorted π-conjugated system plays a positive role in presenting solid-state emission by inhibiting consecutive π–π interactions. We demonstrate in this paper that the introduction of the distorted structure by boron complexation should be a new strategy for realizing AIE and CIE properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structure and Properties of Organic Dyes in Solid State)
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10 pages, 1379 KiB  
Communication
Solving Noise Pollution Issue Using Plenum Window with Perforated Thin Box
by Hsiao Mun Lee, Andi Haris, Kian Meng Lim, Jinlong Xie and Heow Pueh Lee
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070614 - 14 Jul 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2792
Abstract
In the present study, a conventional plenum window was incorporated with perforated thin box in order to enhance its performance at frequency range which centralized at 1000 Hz as most of the common noise sources at city nowadays are centralizing around this frequency. [...] Read more.
In the present study, a conventional plenum window was incorporated with perforated thin box in order to enhance its performance at frequency range which centralized at 1000 Hz as most of the common noise sources at city nowadays are centralizing around this frequency. The entire studies were conducted in a reverberation room. The effectiveness of jagged flap on mitigating diffracted sound was also studied. Three types of noises were examined in the current study—white noise, traffic noise and construction noises. The experimental results showed that the plenum window with perforated thin box could reduce 8.4 dBA, 8.7 dBA and 6.9 dBA of white, traffic and construction noises, respectively. The jagged flaps did not have significant effect on the plenum window’s noise mitigation performance. When frequencies were ranging from 800 Hz to 1250 Hz, when compared with the case of without perforated thin box, it was found that the perforated thin box had good acoustic performance where it was able to reduce additional 1.6 dBA, 1.6 dBA and 1.2 dBA of white, construction and traffic noises, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Phononic Crystals and Acoustic Metamaterials)
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13 pages, 4462 KiB  
Article
Crystal Structure of the Apo and the ADP-Bound Form of Choline Kinase from Plasmodium falciparum
by Archimede Torretta, Luisa Carlota Lopez-Cara and Emilio Parisini
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070613 - 14 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3554
Abstract
Among the malaria-causing parasites, the deadliest is Plasmodium falciparum, which accounts for the majority of the fatalities. As the infection progresses inside erythrocytes, major cellular and metabolic changes take place. For its own growth, the parasite relies on the accumulation of phospholipids, [...] Read more.
Among the malaria-causing parasites, the deadliest is Plasmodium falciparum, which accounts for the majority of the fatalities. As the infection progresses inside erythrocytes, major cellular and metabolic changes take place. For its own growth, the parasite relies on the accumulation of phospholipids, which are essential for membrane synthesis. Within the Kennedy pathway, the P. falciparum choline kinase (PfChoK) has a central role in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine and its selective inhibition leads to the parasite arrest and eradication. Here, we report the crystal structure of the apo and the ADP-bound form of choline kinase from Plasmodium falciparum at 2.0 and 2.2 Å resolution, respectively. These new structural data will facilitate the implementation of effective structure-based drug development strategies against PfChoK in the fight against malaria. Full article
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26 pages, 4086 KiB  
Review
Morphology, Thermal Stability, and Flammability Properties of Polymer-Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) Nanocomposites: A Review
by Mokgaotsa Jonas Mochane, Sifiso Innocent Magagula, Jeremia Shale Sefadi, Emmanuel Rotimi Sadiku and Teboho Clement Mokhena
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070612 - 14 Jul 2020
Cited by 60 | Viewed by 6809
Abstract
The utilization of layered nanofillers in polymer matrix, as reinforcement, has attracted great interest in the 21st century. This can be attributed to the high aspect ratios of the nanofillers and the attendant substantial improvement in different properties (i.e., increased flammability resistance, improved [...] Read more.
The utilization of layered nanofillers in polymer matrix, as reinforcement, has attracted great interest in the 21st century. This can be attributed to the high aspect ratios of the nanofillers and the attendant substantial improvement in different properties (i.e., increased flammability resistance, improved modulus and impact strength, as well as improved barrier properties) of the resultant nanocomposite when compared to the neat polymer matrix. Amongst the well-known layered nanofillers, layered inorganic materials, in the form of LDHs, have been given the most attention. LDH nanofillers have been employed in different polymers due to their flexibility in chemical composition as well as an adjustable charge density, which permits numerous interactions with the host polymer matrices. One of the most important features of LDHs is their ability to act as flame-retardant materials because of their endothermic decomposition. This review paper gives detailed information on the: preparation methods, morphology, flammability, and barrier properties as well as thermal stability of LDH/polymer nanocomposites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs))
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11 pages, 3480 KiB  
Article
Polarization-Sensitive Metamaterials with Tunable Multi-Resonance in the Terahertz Frequency Range
by Xiaojie Chen and Yu-Sheng Lin
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070611 - 13 Jul 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2561
Abstract
We propose two designs of polarization-sensitive metamaterials (PSMs), which are composed of face-to-face spilt-ring resonators (SRRs) and a cut-wire resonator (CWR) sandwiched by two face-to-face SRRs. For convenient description, they are denoted as PSM_1 and PSM_2, respectively. PSM_1 and PSM_2 are fabricated by [...] Read more.
We propose two designs of polarization-sensitive metamaterials (PSMs), which are composed of face-to-face spilt-ring resonators (SRRs) and a cut-wire resonator (CWR) sandwiched by two face-to-face SRRs. For convenient description, they are denoted as PSM_1 and PSM_2, respectively. PSM_1 and PSM_2 are fabricated by tailoring Au layers with periodic configurations on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrates. By changing the incident polarization light, the electromagnetic responses of PSM_1 can be manipulated between single-resonance and dual-resonance, while those of PSM_2 exhibit switching behavior between single-resonance and triple-resonance. By enlarging the distance between the gap centers of the two face-to-face SRRs along the y-axis direction, the electromagnetic responses of PSM_1 show switching characteristics from single-resonance to triple-resonance at the transverse electric (TE) mode and from dual-resonance to triple-resonance at the transverse magnetic (TM) mode. PSM_2 exhibits switching characteristics from single-resonance to triple-resonance at the TE mode and from dual-resonance to quad-resonance at the TM mode. Furthermore, by changing the width of the CWR under the condition of two face-to-face SRRs with a constant gap distance, PSM_2 exhibits stable electromagnetic responses at the TE mode and tunable resonances at the TM mode, respectively. This work paves the way to the possibility of metamaterial devices with great tunability, switchable bandwidth, and polarization-dependence characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polarization-Handling Metasurfaces)
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18 pages, 6854 KiB  
Article
Microwave Irradiation to Produce High Performance Thermoelectric Material Based on Al Doped ZnO Nanostructures
by Neazar Baghdadi, Numan Salah, Ahmed Alshahrie and Kunihito Koumoto
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070610 - 13 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3079
Abstract
Microwave irradiation is found to be effective to provide highly crystalline nanostructured materials. In this work, this technique has been used to produce highly improved thermoelectric (TE) material based on aluminum (Al) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures (NSs). The effect of Al dopant [...] Read more.
Microwave irradiation is found to be effective to provide highly crystalline nanostructured materials. In this work, this technique has been used to produce highly improved thermoelectric (TE) material based on aluminum (Al) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures (NSs). The effect of Al dopant at the concentration range 0.5–3 mol % on the structural and TE properties has been investigated in more details. The optimum concentration of Al for better TE performance is found to be 2 mol %, which could significantly increase the electrical conductivity and reduce the thermal conductivity of ZnO NSs and thus enhance the TE performance. This concentration showed almost metallic conductivity behavior for ZnO NSs at low temperatures, e.g., below 500 K. The electrical conductivity reached 400 S/m at room temperature, which is around 200 times greater than the value recorded for the pure ZnO NSs. Remarkably, the measured room temperature thermal conductivity of the microwave synthesized ZnO NSs was very low, which is around 4 W/m·K. This value was further reduced to 0.5 W/m·K by increasing the Al doping to 3 mol %. The figure of merit recorded 0.028 at 675 K, which is 15 times higher than that of the pure ZnO NSs. The output power of a single leg module made of 2 mol % Al doped ZnO NSs was 3.7 µW at 485 K, which is higher by 8 times than that of the pure sample. These results demonstrated the advantage of the microwave irradiation rout as a superior synthetic technique for producing and doping promising TE nanomaterials like ZnO NSs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zinc Oxide Nanomaterials and Based Devices)
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14 pages, 2845 KiB  
Article
Enhancement of Solar Cell Performance of Electrodeposited Ti/n-Cu2O/p-Cu2O/Au Homojunction Solar Cells by Interface and Surface Modification
by Charith Jayathilaka, Loku Singgappulige Rosantha Kumara, Koji Ohara, Chulho Song, Shinji Kohara, Osami Sakata, Withana Siripala and Sumedha Jayanetti
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070609 - 13 Jul 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2663
Abstract
Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) homojunction thin films on Ti substrates were fabricated by an electrochemical deposition in which a p-Cu2O layer was deposited on an n-Cu2O layer by carefully controlled bath conditions. It was found that [...] Read more.
Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) homojunction thin films on Ti substrates were fabricated by an electrochemical deposition in which a p-Cu2O layer was deposited on an n-Cu2O layer by carefully controlled bath conditions. It was found that the open-circuit voltage of the homojunction solar cell was significantly influenced by the pH of the lactate bath. The variation of the pH was used to achieve the best possible crystal orientation for homojunctions. The crystallinity and morphology of the products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-energy x-ray diffraction (HEXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The current density voltage (J-V) analysis showed that the sulfur treatment and annealing enhanced the photocurrent by ten-fold compared to the untreated and unannealed homojunction solar cell. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies confirmed that the sulfur treatment eliminated the surface CuO and formed a thin layer of CuS, which was very useful to make the front Ohmic contact. Transient measurements confirmed that the p-type Cu2O layer, which was subjected to sulfur treatment, significantly reduced the recombination, thus enhancing the efficiency of the solar cell. The best sulfur treated annealed Ti/n-Cu2O/p-Cu2O/Au solar cell produced an energy conversion efficiency of 2.64% with an open-circuit voltage of 490 mV and a short circuit current density of 12.8 mA cm−2 under AM 1.5 illumination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical and Microstructural Characterization of Thin Layers)
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18 pages, 14542 KiB  
Article
Amplitude Dependent Internal Friction in Strained Magnesium Alloys of AZ Series
by Milan Uhríčik, Zuzana Dresslerová, Peter Palček, Mária Chalupová, Zuzanka Trojanová and Patrícia Hanusová
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070608 - 13 Jul 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1982
Abstract
Amplitude dependent internal friction (ADIF) was measured in three AZ magnesium alloys. Two types of experiments were performed: ADIF was measured step by step with the increasing strain amplitude and ADIF was measured after predeformation of samples in torsion. All experiments were done [...] Read more.
Amplitude dependent internal friction (ADIF) was measured in three AZ magnesium alloys. Two types of experiments were performed: ADIF was measured step by step with the increasing strain amplitude and ADIF was measured after predeformation of samples in torsion. All experiments were done at room temperature. The quality factor was used as a measure of internal friction (IF). The quality factor decreased in the region of smaller amplitudes, and approaching some critical amplitude, εcr, rapidly increased. This critical amplitude increased with increasing maximum strain amplitude and predeformation of samples up to ~6%. Such behavior can be explained by considering mobile solute atoms, which may migrate along the dislocation line in the region of smaller amplitudes and perpendicular to the dislocation line in the region of higher amplitudes. A competition between dragging and depinning of solute atoms with dislocation lines may very well explain the measured dependencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study Properties of Hexagonal Single Crystals and Polycrystals)
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12 pages, 11138 KiB  
Article
Effect of Stacking Fault Energy on Microstructure and Texture Evolution during the Rolling of Non-Equiatomic CrMnFeCoNi High-Entropy Alloys
by G. Dan Sathiaraj, Rajib Kalsar, Satyam Suwas and Werner Skrotzki
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070607 - 13 Jul 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3143
Abstract
The evolution of microstructure and texture in three non-equiatomic CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with varying stacking fault energy (SFE) has been studied in up to 90% rolling reductions at both room and cryogenic temperature. All the HEAs deform by dislocation slip and additional [...] Read more.
The evolution of microstructure and texture in three non-equiatomic CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with varying stacking fault energy (SFE) has been studied in up to 90% rolling reductions at both room and cryogenic temperature. All the HEAs deform by dislocation slip and additional mechanical twinning at intermediate and shear banding at high rolling strains. The microstructure is quite heterogeneous and, with strain, becomes highly fragmented. During rolling, a characteristic brass-type texture develops. Its strength increases with a decreasing SFE and the lowering of the rolling temperature. The texture evolution is discussed with regard to planar slip, mechanical twinning, and shear banding. Full article
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51 pages, 16973 KiB  
Review
The Solid-State Structures of Cyclic NH Carboximides
by R. Alan Aitken and Dheirya K. Sonecha
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070606 - 12 Jul 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3487
Abstract
The patterns adopted in the solid state structures of over 300 cyclic NH carboximides as determined by X-ray diffraction are reviewed. While the analysis shows that the majority of these fit into just a few common patterns, a significant number exhibit more complex [...] Read more.
The patterns adopted in the solid state structures of over 300 cyclic NH carboximides as determined by X-ray diffraction are reviewed. While the analysis shows that the majority of these fit into just a few common patterns, a significant number exhibit more complex and interesting patterns involving the other functional groups present in addition to the cyclic imide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Bonds in Crystals)
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9 pages, 2956 KiB  
Article
Ideal Photonic Weyl Nodes Stabilized by Screw Rotation Symmetry in Space Group 19
by Wenlong Gao and Yao-Ting Wang
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070605 - 12 Jul 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2703
Abstract
Topological photonics have developed in recent years since the seminal discoveries of topological insulators in condensed matter physics for electrons. Among the numerous studies, photonic Weyl nodes have been studied very recently due to their intriguing surface Fermi arcs, Chiral zero modes and [...] Read more.
Topological photonics have developed in recent years since the seminal discoveries of topological insulators in condensed matter physics for electrons. Among the numerous studies, photonic Weyl nodes have been studied very recently due to their intriguing surface Fermi arcs, Chiral zero modes and scattering properties. In this article, we propose a new design of an ideal photonic Weyl node metacrystal, meaning no excessive states are present at the Weyl nodes’ frequency. The Weyl node is stabilized by the screw rotation symmetry of space group 19. Group theory analysis is utilized to reveal how the Weyl nodes are spawned from line nodes in a higher symmetry metacrystal of space group 61. The minimum four Weyl nodes’ complex for time reversal invariant systems is found, which is a realistic photonic Weyl node metacrystal design compatible with standard printed circuit board techniques and is a complement to the few existing ideal photonic Weyl node designs and could be further utilized in studies of Weyl physics, for instance, Chiral zero modes and scatterings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Topological Materials)
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24 pages, 5282 KiB  
Review
Novel Trends in Lyotropic Liquid Crystals
by Ingo Dierking and Antônio Martins Figueiredo Neto
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070604 - 12 Jul 2020
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 10492
Abstract
We introduce and shortly summarize a variety of more recent aspects of lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs), which have drawn the attention of the liquid crystal and soft matter community and have recently led to an increasing number of groups studying this fascinating class [...] Read more.
We introduce and shortly summarize a variety of more recent aspects of lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs), which have drawn the attention of the liquid crystal and soft matter community and have recently led to an increasing number of groups studying this fascinating class of materials, alongside their normal activities in thermotopic LCs. The diversity of topics ranges from amphiphilic to inorganic liquid crystals, clays and biological liquid crystals, such as viruses, cellulose or DNA, to strongly anisotropic materials such as nanotubes, nanowires or graphene oxide dispersed in isotropic solvents. We conclude our admittedly somewhat subjective overview with materials exhibiting some fascinating properties, such as chromonics, ferroelectric lyotropics and active liquid crystals and living lyotropics, before we point out some possible and emerging applications of a class of materials that has long been standing in the shadow of the well-known applications of thermotropic liquid crystals, namely displays and electro-optic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Lyotropic Liquid Crystals)
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15 pages, 4333 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of Photoluminescence Liquid Crystals Based on Flexible Chain-Bearing Pentafluorinated Bistolanes
by Shigeyuki Yamada, Masaya Sato and Tsutomu Konno
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070603 - 11 Jul 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2868
Abstract
The liquid-crystalline (LC) and photophysical properties of molecules are very sensitive to their electronic and molecular aggregate structures. Herein, to shed light on the structure–property relationships of pentafluorinated bistolane-based photoluminescence (PL) liquid crystals (PLLCs) previously reported by our group, we synthesized pentafluorinated bistolanes [...] Read more.
The liquid-crystalline (LC) and photophysical properties of molecules are very sensitive to their electronic and molecular aggregate structures. Herein, to shed light on the structure–property relationships of pentafluorinated bistolane-based photoluminescence (PL) liquid crystals (PLLCs) previously reported by our group, we synthesized pentafluorinated bistolanes with variable flexible chains and evaluated their LC and photophysical properties. The incorporation of an oxygen atom (to afford a 2-methoxyethoxy unit) or an oxygen atom and a methyl group (to afford a 1-methoxyprop-2-oxy unit) into the flexible butoxy chain significantly decreased the temperature of the crystalline-to-LC phase transition, and a chiral nematic phase comprising helical molecular aggregates was observed for the chiral 1-methoxyprop-2-oxy group–bearing bistolane. The synthesized bistolanes exhibited strong blue PL in both solution and crystalline phases; the featuring PL characteristics were maintained in the LC phase (produced by the crystalline-to-LC phase transition) except for a slight PL color change. Thus, it was concluded that the PL behavior of pentafluorinated bistolanes can be modulated by the choice of a suitable flexible chain, and the obtained insights are believed to facilitate the application of PLLCs in thermosensing PL materials. Full article
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29 pages, 6684 KiB  
Review
Layered Double Hydroxides in Bioinspired Nanotechnology
by Giuseppe Arrabito, Riccardo Pezzilli, Giuseppe Prestopino and Pier Gianni Medaglia
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070602 - 11 Jul 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4720
Abstract
Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) are a relevant class of inorganic lamellar nanomaterials that have attracted significant interest in life science-related applications, due to their highly controllable synthesis and high biocompatibility. Under a general point of view, this class of materials might have played [...] Read more.
Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) are a relevant class of inorganic lamellar nanomaterials that have attracted significant interest in life science-related applications, due to their highly controllable synthesis and high biocompatibility. Under a general point of view, this class of materials might have played an important role for the origin of life on planet Earth, given their ability to adsorb and concentrate life-relevant molecules in sea environments. It has been speculated that the organic–mineral interactions could have permitted to organize the adsorbed molecules, leading to an increase in their local concentration and finally to the emergence of life. Inspired by nature, material scientists, engineers and chemists have started to leverage the ability of LDHs to absorb and concentrate molecules and biomolecules within life-like compartments, allowing to realize highly-efficient bioinspired platforms, usable for bioanalysis, therapeutics, sensors and bioremediation. This review aims at summarizing the latest evolution of LDHs in this research field under an unprecedented perspective, finally providing possible challenges and directions for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Layered Double Hydroxides)
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10 pages, 2993 KiB  
Article
Carbon Nanotube Detectors and Spectrometers for the Terahertz Range
by Junsung Park, Xueqing Liu, Trond Ytterdal and Michael Shur
Crystals 2020, 10(7), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst10070601 - 10 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2435
Abstract
We present the compact unified charge control model (UCCM) for carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) to enable the accurate simulation of the DC characteristics and plasmonic terahertz (THz) response in the CNTFETs. Accounting for the ambipolar nature of the carrier transport (n-type and [...] Read more.
We present the compact unified charge control model (UCCM) for carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) to enable the accurate simulation of the DC characteristics and plasmonic terahertz (THz) response in the CNTFETs. Accounting for the ambipolar nature of the carrier transport (n-type and p-type conductivity at positive and negative gate biases, respectively), we use n-type and p-type CNTFET non-linear equivalent circuits connected in parallel, representing the ambipolar conduction in the CNTFETs. This allows us to present a realistic non-linear model that is valid across the entire voltage range and is therefore suitable for the CNTFET design. The important feature of the model is that explicit equations for gate bias, current, mobility, and capacitance with smoothing parameters accurately describe the device operation near the transition from above- to below-threshold regimes, with scalability in device geometry. The DC performance in the proposed compact CNTFET model is validated by the comparison between the SPICE simulation and the experimental DC characteristics. The simulated THz response resulted from the validated CNTFET model is found to be in good agreement with the analytically calculated response and also reveals the bias and power dependent sub-THz response and relatively wide dynamic range for detection that could be suitable for THz detectors. The operation of CNTFET spectrometers in the THz frequency range is further demonstrated using the present model. The simulation exhibits that the CNT-based spectrometers can cover a broad THz frequency band from 0.1 to 3.08 THz. The model that has been incorporated into the circuit simulators enables the accurate assessment of DC performance and THz operation. Therefore, it can be used for the design and performance estimation of the CNTFETs and their integrated circuits operating in the THz regime. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plasmonic Nanostructures)
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