Editorial

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2 pages, 181 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science: Method for Everything in Materials Science

by Katsuhiko Ariga and Rawil Fakhrullin

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196367 - 23 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 638

Abstract

The history of mankind has been accompanied by the development of materials science [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

Research

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14 pages, 2546 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trametes versicolor Laccase-Based Magnetic Inorganic-Protein Hybrid Nanobiocatalyst for Efficient Decolorization of Dyes in the Presence of Inhibitors

by Sanjay K. S. Patel, Rahul K. Gupta, Karthikeyan K. Karuppanan, Deepak K. Padhi, Sampathkumar Ranganathan, Parasuraman Paramanantham and Jung-Kul Lee

Materials 2024, 17(8), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17081790 - 13 Apr 2024

Viewed by 280

Abstract

In the present investigation, an ecofriendly magnetic inorganic-protein hybrid system-based enzyme immobilization was developed using partially purified laccase from Trametes versicolor (TvLac), Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, and manganese (Mn), and was successfully applied for synthetic dye decolorization in the presence [...] Read more.

In the present investigation, an ecofriendly magnetic inorganic-protein hybrid system-based enzyme immobilization was developed using partially purified laccase from Trametes versicolor (TvLac), Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, and manganese (Mn), and was successfully applied for synthetic dye decolorization in the presence of enzyme inhibitors. After the partial purification of crude TvLac, the specific enzyme activity reached 212 U∙mg total protein⁻¹. The synthesized Fe₃O₄/Mn₃(PO₄)₂-laccase (Fe₃O₄/Mn-TvLac) and Mn₃(PO₄)₂-laccase (Mn-TvLac) nanoflowers (NFs) exhibited encapsulation yields of 85.5% and 90.3%, respectively, with relative activities of 245% and 260%, respectively, compared with those of free TvLac. One-pot synthesized Fe₃O₄/Mn-TvLac exhibited significant improvements in catalytic properties and stability compared to those of the free enzyme. Fe₃O₄/Mn-TvLac retained a significantly higher residual activity of 96.8% over that of Mn-TvLac (47.1%) after 10 reuse cycles. The NFs showed potential for the efficient decolorization of synthetic dyes in the presence of enzyme inhibitors. For up to five reuse cycles, Fe₃O₄/Mn-TvLac retained a decolorization potential of 81.1% and 86.3% for Coomassie Brilliant Blue R-250 and xylene cyanol, respectively. The synthesized Fe₃O₄/Mn-TvLac showed a lower acute toxicity towards Vibrio fischeri than pure Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles did. This is the first report of the one-pot synthesis of biofriendly magnetic protein-inorganic hybrids using partially purified TvLac and Mn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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22 pages, 5497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Effects of Co₃O₄-gC₃N₄-Coated ZnO Nanoparticles: A Novel Approach for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Ciprofloxacin and Hydrogen Evolution via Water Splitting

by Abniel Machín, Carmen Morant, Loraine Soto-Vázquez, Edgard Resto, José Ducongé, María Cotto, Pedro J. Berríos-Rolón, Cristian Martínez-Perales and Francisco Márquez

Materials 2024, 17(5), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17051059 - 25 Feb 2024

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Abstract

This research evaluates the efficacy of catalysts based on Co₃O₄-gC₃N₄@ZnONPs in the degradation of ciprofloxacin (CFX) and the photocatalytic production of H₂ through water splitting. The results show that CFX experiences prompt photodegradation, with [...] Read more.

This research evaluates the efficacy of catalysts based on Co₃O₄-gC₃N₄@ZnONPs in the degradation of ciprofloxacin (CFX) and the photocatalytic production of H₂ through water splitting. The results show that CFX experiences prompt photodegradation, with rates reaching up to 99% within 60 min. Notably, the 5% (Co₃O₄-gC₃N₄)@ZnONPs emerged as the most potent catalyst. The recyclability studies of the catalyst revealed a minimal activity loss, approximately 6%, after 15 usage cycles. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques, the by-products of CFX photodegradation were identified, which enabled the determination of the potential degradation pathway and its resultant products. Comprehensive assessments involving photoluminescence, bandgap evaluations, and the study of scavenger reactions revealed a degradation mechanism driven primarily by superoxide radicals. Moreover, the catalysts demonstrated robust performance in H₂ photocatalytic production, with some achieving outputs as high as 1407 µmol/hg in the visible spectrum (around 500 nm). Such findings underline the potential of these materials in environmental endeavors, targeting both water purification from organic pollutants and energy applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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17 pages, 14370 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gas-Sensing Properties and Mechanisms of 3D Networks Composed of ZnO Tetrapod Micro-Nano Structures at Room Temperature

by Jinjiang Hu, Hong Ma, Yang Zhou, Liyong Ma, Shuyin Zhao, Shuzheng Shi, Jirong Li and Yongqin Chang

Materials 2024, 17(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17010203 - 30 Dec 2023

Viewed by 789

Abstract

Metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) hold great promise for electronic devices such as gas sensors. The utilization of ZnO as a conductometric gas sensor material can be traced back to its early stages; however, its application has primarily been limited to high-temperature environments. A [...] Read more.

Metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) hold great promise for electronic devices such as gas sensors. The utilization of ZnO as a conductometric gas sensor material can be traced back to its early stages; however, its application has primarily been limited to high-temperature environments. A gas sensor based on highly porous and interconnected 3D networks of ZnO tetrapod (ZnO-T) micro-nano structures was fabricated via an easy chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Homemade instruments were utilized to evaluate the gas-sensing of the sample at room temperature. It exhibited good gas-sensing at room temperature, particularly with a response of up to 338.80% toward 1600 ppm ethanol, while also demonstrating remarkable repeatability, stability, and selectivity. Moreover, the unique gas-sensing properties of ZnO-T at room temperature can be reasonably explained by considering the effect of van der Waals forces in physical adsorption and the synergistic effect of carrier concentration and mobility. The aforementioned statement presents an opportunity for the advancement of gas sensors utilizing ZnO at room temperature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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19 pages, 7844 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formulation and Biodegradation of Surface-Supported Biopolymer-Based Microgels Formed via Hard Templating onto Vaterite CaCO₃ Crystals

by Mariam Mammen, Cain Hogg, Dominic Craske and Dmitry Volodkin

Materials 2024, 17(1), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17010103 - 25 Dec 2023

Viewed by 711

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been increased attention to the role of layer-by-layer assembled bio-polymer 3D structures (capsules, beads, and microgels) for biomedical applications. Such free-standing multilayer structures are formed via hard templating onto sacrificial cores such as vaterite CaCO₃ crystals. Immobilization [...] Read more.

In recent decades, there has been increased attention to the role of layer-by-layer assembled bio-polymer 3D structures (capsules, beads, and microgels) for biomedical applications. Such free-standing multilayer structures are formed via hard templating onto sacrificial cores such as vaterite CaCO₃ crystals. Immobilization of these structures onto solid surfaces (e.g., implants and catheters) opens the way for the formulation of advanced bio-coating with a patterned surface. However, the immobilization step is challenging. Multiple approaches based mainly on covalent binding have been developed to localize these multilayer 3D structures at the surface. This work reports a novel strategy to formulate multilayer surface-supported microgels (ss-MG) directly on the surface via hard templating onto ss-CaCO₃ pre-grown onto the surface via the direct mixing of Na₂CO₃ and CaCl₂ precursor solutions. ss-MGs were fabricated using biopolymers: polylysine (PLL) as polycation and three polyanions—hyaluronic acid (HA), heparin sulfate (HS), and alginate (ALG). ss-MG biodegradation was examined by employing the enzyme trypsin. Our studies indicate that the adhesion of the ss-MG to the surface and its formation yield directly correlate with the mobility of biopolymers in the ss-MG, which decreases in the sequence of ALG > HA > HS-based ss-MGs. The adhesion of HS-based ss-MGs is only possible via heating during their formation. Dextran-loading increases ss-MG formation yield while reducing ss-MG shrinking. ss-MGs with higher polymer mobility possess slower biodegradation rates, which is likely due to diffusion limitations for the enzyme in more compact annealed ss-MGs. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the formation and biodegradation of surface-supported biopolymer structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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16 pages, 4984 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

N-Doped Carbon Nanowire-Modified Macroporous Carbon Foam Microbial Fuel Cell Anode: Enrichment of Exoelectrogens and Enhancement of Extracellular Electron Transfer

by Ke Liu, Zhuo Ma, Xinyi Li, Yunfeng Qiu, Danqing Liu and Shaoqin Liu

Materials 2024, 17(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17010069 - 22 Dec 2023

Viewed by 745

Abstract

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) performance is affected by the metabolic activity of bacteria and the extracellular electron transfer (EET) process. The deficiency of nanostructures on macroporous anode obstructs the enrichment of exoelectrogens and the EET. Herein, a N-doped carbon nanowire-modified macroporous carbon foam [...] Read more.

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) performance is affected by the metabolic activity of bacteria and the extracellular electron transfer (EET) process. The deficiency of nanostructures on macroporous anode obstructs the enrichment of exoelectrogens and the EET. Herein, a N-doped carbon nanowire-modified macroporous carbon foam was prepared and served as an anode in MFCs. The anode has a hierarchical porous structure, which can solve the problem of biofilm blockage, ensure mass transport, favor exoelectrogen enrichment, and enhance the metabolic activity of bacteria. The microscopic morphology, spectroscopy, and electrochemical characterization of the anode confirm that carbon nanowires can penetrate biofilm, decrease charge resistance, and enhance long-distance electron transfer efficiency. In addition, pyrrolic N can effectively reduce the binding energy and electron transfer distance of bacterial outer membrane hemin. With this hierarchical anode, a maximum power density of 5.32 W/m³ was obtained, about 2.5-fold that of bare carbon cloth. The one-dimensional nanomaterial-modified macroporous anodes in this study are a promising strategy to improve the exoelectrogen enrichment and EET for MFCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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22 pages, 6797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polyurethane/n-Octadecane Phase-Change Microcapsules via Emulsion Interfacial Polymerization: The Effect of Paraffin Loading on Capsule Shell Formation and Latent Heat Storage Properties

by Denis V. Voronin, Eliza Sitmukhanova, Rais I. Mendgaziev, Maria I. Rubtsova, Dmitry Kopitsyn, Kirill A. Cherednichenko, Anton P. Semenov, Rawil Fakhrullin, Dmitry G. Shchukin and Vladimir Vinokurov

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196460 - 28 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 937

Abstract

Organic phase-change materials (PCMs) hold promise in developing advanced thermoregulation and responsive energy systems owing to their high latent heat capacity and thermal reliability. However, organic PCMs are prone to leakages in the liquid state and, thus, are hardly applicable in their pristine [...] Read more.

Organic phase-change materials (PCMs) hold promise in developing advanced thermoregulation and responsive energy systems owing to their high latent heat capacity and thermal reliability. However, organic PCMs are prone to leakages in the liquid state and, thus, are hardly applicable in their pristine form. Herein, we encapsulated organic PCM n-Octadecane into polyurethane capsules via polymerization of commercially available polymethylene polyphenylene isocyanate and polyethylene glycol at the interface oil-in-water emulsion and studied how various n-Octadecane feeding affected the shell formation, capsule structure, and latent heat storage properties. The successful shell polymerization and encapsulation of n-Octadecane dissolved in the oil core was verified by confocal microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The mean capsule size varied from 9.4 to 16.7 µm while the shell was found to reduce in thickness from 460 to 220 nm as the n-Octadecane feeding increased. Conversely, the latent heat storage capacity increased from 50 to 132 J/g corresponding to the growth in actual n-Octadecane content from 25% to 67% as revealed by differential scanning calorimetry. The actual n-Octadecane content increased non-linearly along with the n-Octadecane feeding and reached a plateau at 66–67% corresponded to 3.44–3.69 core-to-monomer ratio. Finally, the capsules with the reasonable combination of structural and thermal properties were evaluated as a thermoregulating additive to a commercially available paint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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17 pages, 7572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation on Physico Chemical and X-ray Shielding Performance of Zinc Doped Nano-WO₃ Epoxy Composite for Light Weight Lead Free Aprons

by Sanjeevi Palanisami, Vishnu Shankar Dhandapani, Varuna Jayachandran, Elango Muniappan, Dongkyou Park, Byungki Kim and Kalpana Govindasami

Materials 2023, 16(10), 3866; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16103866 - 20 May 2023

Viewed by 1393

Abstract

This report addresses a way to reduce the usage of highly toxic lead in diagnostic X-ray shielding by developing a cost-effective, eco-friendly nano-tungsten trioxide (WO₃) epoxy composite for low-weight aprons. Zinc (Zn)-doped WO₃ nanoparticles of 20 to 400 nm were [...] Read more.

This report addresses a way to reduce the usage of highly toxic lead in diagnostic X-ray shielding by developing a cost-effective, eco-friendly nano-tungsten trioxide (WO₃) epoxy composite for low-weight aprons. Zinc (Zn)-doped WO₃ nanoparticles of 20 to 400 nm were synthesized by an inexpensive and scalable chemical acid–precipitation method. The prepared nanoparticles were subjected to X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence, high-resolution–transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, and the results showed that doping plays a critical role in influencing the physico-chemical properties. The prepared nanoparticles were used as shielding material in this study, which were dispersed in a non-water soluble durable epoxy resin polymer matrix and the dispersed materials were coated over a rexine cloth using the drop-casting method. The X-ray shielding performance was evaluated by estimating the linear attenuation coefficient (μ), mass attenuation coefficient (μ_m), half value layer (HVL), and X-ray percentage of attenuation. Overall, an improvement in X-ray attenuation in the range of 40–100 kVp was observed for the undoped WO₃ nanoparticles and Zn-doped WO₃ nanoparticles, which was nearly equal to lead oxide-based aprons (reference material). At 40 kVp, the percentage of attenuation of 2% Zn doped WO₃ was 97% which was better than that of other prepared aprons. This study proves that 2% Zn doped WO₃ epoxy composite yields a better particle size distribution, μ_m, and lower HVL value and hence it can be a convenient lead free X-ray shielding apron. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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18 pages, 3166 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phase-Change Microcapsules with a Stable Polyurethane Shell through the Direct Crosslinking of Cellulose Nanocrystals with Polyisocyanate at the Oil/Water Interface of Pickering Emulsion

by Denis Voronin, Rais Mendgaziev, Adeliya Sayfutdinova, Maria Kugai, Maria Rubtsova, Kirill Cherednichenko, Dmitry Shchukin and Vladimir Vinokurov

Materials 2023, 16(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16010029 - 21 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1438

Abstract

Phase-change materials (PCMs) attract much attention with regard to their capability of mitigating fossil fuel-based heating in in-building applications, due to the responsive accumulation and release of thermal energy as a latent heat of reversible phase transitions. Organic PCMs possess high latent heat [...] Read more.

Phase-change materials (PCMs) attract much attention with regard to their capability of mitigating fossil fuel-based heating in in-building applications, due to the responsive accumulation and release of thermal energy as a latent heat of reversible phase transitions. Organic PCMs possess high latent heat storage capacity and thermal reliability. However, bare PCMs suffer from leakages in the liquid form. Here, we demonstrate a reliable approach to improve the shape stability of organic PCM n-octadecane by encapsulation via interfacial polymerization at an oil/water interface of Pickering emulsion. Cellulose nanocrystals are employed as emulsion stabilizers and branched oligo-polyol with high functionality to crosslink the polyurethane shell in reaction with polyisocyanate dissolved in the oil core. This gives rise to a rigid polyurethane structure with a high density of urethane groups. The formation of a polyurethane shell and successful encapsulation of n-octadecane is confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy, XRD analysis, and fluorescent confocal microscopy. Electron microscopy reveals the formation of non-aggregated capsules with an average size of 18.6 µm and a smooth uniform shell with the thickness of 450 nm. The capsules demonstrate a latent heat storage capacity of 79 J/g, while the encapsulation of n-octadecane greatly improves its shape and thermal stability compared with bulk paraffin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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15 pages, 4951 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of Cobalamin and In Vitro Cell Imaging Based on Nitrogen-Doped Yellow Fluorescent Carbon Dots with Nano Architectonics

by Guang Yu, Yujia Cheng and Zhuohua Duan

Materials 2022, 15(24), 9057; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15249057 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1367

Abstract

As novel fluorescent nanomaterials, carbon dots have attracted increasing research attention because of their simple synthesis, robust fluorescence, low toxicity, and easy functionalisation. Previous research was focused on preparing carbon dots from biomass and chemical materials; however, most of these carbon dots exhibited [...] Read more.

As novel fluorescent nanomaterials, carbon dots have attracted increasing research attention because of their simple synthesis, robust fluorescence, low toxicity, and easy functionalisation. Previous research was focused on preparing carbon dots from biomass and chemical materials; however, most of these carbon dots exhibited blue fluorescence. Moreover, the fluorescence quantum yield was generally low, significantly limiting their application in biological imaging. To broaden the application scope of carbon dots, this study prepared long-wavelength emitting nano-carbon dots that exhibited increased quantum yield. Novel N-doped yellow fluorescent nano-carbon dots (Y-CDs) were synthesised via a hydrothermal method using L-tartaric acid and urea as the precursors. The Y-CDs had a high quantum yield (15.9%) and demonstrated photostability at various pHs, temperatures, and ionic strengths. The Y-CDs could detect cobalamin effectively and selectively, showing a linear relationship between fluorescence intensity and cobalamin concentration. The related coefficient was 0.997, and the detection limit was 2.101 μmol/L. In addition, the Y-CDs were successfully used as an imaging probe for MDA-MB-231 cells. Therefore, the Y-CDs developed in this study can be used for cobalamin detection and cell imaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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Review

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41 pages, 3493 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Nanoarchitectonics: A Review of “Static” and “Dynamic” Particle Assembly Methods

by Karaneh Eftekhari, Bogdan V. Parakhonskiy, Dmitry Grigoriev and Andre G. Skirtach

Materials 2024, 17(5), 1051; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17051051 - 24 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1368

Abstract

Particle assembly is a promising technique to create functional materials and devices from nanoscale building blocks. However, the control of particle arrangement and orientation is challenging and requires careful design of the assembly methods and conditions. In this study, the static and dynamic [...] Read more.

Particle assembly is a promising technique to create functional materials and devices from nanoscale building blocks. However, the control of particle arrangement and orientation is challenging and requires careful design of the assembly methods and conditions. In this study, the static and dynamic methods of particle assembly are reviewed, focusing on their applications in biomaterial sciences. Static methods rely on the equilibrium interactions between particles and substrates, such as electrostatic, magnetic, or capillary forces. Dynamic methods can be associated with the application of external stimuli, such as electric fields, magnetic fields, light, or sound, to manipulate the particles in a non-equilibrium state. This study discusses the advantages and limitations of such methods as well as nanoarchitectonic principles that guide the formation of desired structures and functions. It also highlights some examples of biomaterials and devices that have been fabricated by particle assembly, such as biosensors, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and artificial organs. It concludes by outlining the future challenges and opportunities of particle assembly for biomaterial sciences. This review stands as a crucial guide for scholars and professionals in the field, fostering further investigation and innovation. It also highlights the necessity for continuous research to refine these methodologies and devise more efficient techniques for nanomaterial synthesis. The potential ramifications on healthcare and technology are substantial, with implications for drug delivery systems, diagnostic tools, disease treatments, energy storage, environmental science, and electronics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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38 pages, 8389 KiB

Open AccessReview

Materials Nanoarchitectonics at Dynamic Interfaces: Structure Formation and Functional Manipulation

by Katsuhiko Ariga

Materials 2024, 17(1), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17010271 - 04 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1477

Abstract

The next step in nanotechnology is to establish a methodology to assemble new functional materials based on the knowledge of nanotechnology. This task is undertaken by nanoarchitectonics. In nanoarchitectonics, we architect functional material systems from nanounits such as atoms, molecules, and nanomaterials. In [...] Read more.

The next step in nanotechnology is to establish a methodology to assemble new functional materials based on the knowledge of nanotechnology. This task is undertaken by nanoarchitectonics. In nanoarchitectonics, we architect functional material systems from nanounits such as atoms, molecules, and nanomaterials. In terms of the hierarchy of the structure and the harmonization of the function, the material created by nanoarchitectonics has similar characteristics to the organization of the functional structure in biosystems. Looking at actual biofunctional systems, dynamic properties and interfacial environments are key. In other words, nanoarchitectonics at dynamic interfaces is important for the production of bio-like highly functional materials systems. In this review paper, nanoarchitectonics at dynamic interfaces will be discussed, looking at recent typical examples. In particular, the basic topics of “molecular manipulation, arrangement, and assembly” and “material production” will be discussed in the first two sections. Then, in the following section, “fullerene assembly: from zero-dimensional unit to advanced materials”, we will discuss how various functional structures can be created from the very basic nanounit, the fullerene. The above examples demonstrate the versatile possibilities of architectonics at dynamic interfaces. In the last section, these tendencies will be summarized, and future directions will be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science)

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