Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Applied Sciences applsci	2.7	4.5	2011	16.9 Days	CHF 2400
Applied Nano applnano	-	-	2020	23.5 Days	CHF 1000
Nanomaterials nanomaterials	5.3	7.4	2010	13.6 Days	CHF 2900
Materials materials	3.4	5.2	2008	13.9 Days	CHF 2600
Lubricants lubricants	3.5	4.1	2013	14.8 Days	CHF 2600

3 pages, 196 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes

by Simone Morais

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(19), 2674; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13192674 - 29 Sep 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1302

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) (single-walled CNT, multiwalled CNT, non-covalently functionalized and covalently functionalized CNT, and/or CNT tailored with chemical or biological recognition elements) are by far the most popular nanomaterials thanks to their high electrical and thermal conductivities and mechanical strength, specific optical and [...] Read more.

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) (single-walled CNT, multiwalled CNT, non-covalently functionalized and covalently functionalized CNT, and/or CNT tailored with chemical or biological recognition elements) are by far the most popular nanomaterials thanks to their high electrical and thermal conductivities and mechanical strength, specific optical and sorption properties, low cost, and easy preparation, among other interesting characteristics [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

17 pages, 3113 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Molarity and Storage Time of MWCNTs on the Properties of Cement Paste

by Echeverry-Cardona Laura, Cabanzo Rafael, Quintero-Orozco Jorge, Castillo-Cuero Harvi Alirio, Rodríguez-Restrepo Laura Victoria and Restrepo-Parra Elisabeth

Materials 2022, 15(24), 9035; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15249035 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1233

Abstract

Nowadays, nanomaterials in cement pastes are among the most important topics in the cement industry because they can be used for several applications. For this reason, this work presents a study about the influence of changing the molarity of dispersed multiple wall carbon [...] Read more.

Nowadays, nanomaterials in cement pastes are among the most important topics in the cement industry because they can be used for several applications. For this reason, this work presents a study about the influence of changing the molarity of dispersed multiple wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and varying the number of storage days on the mechanical properties of the cement paste. To achieve this objective, dispersions of 0.35% MWCNTs, varying the molarity of the surfactant as 10 mM, 20 mM, 40 mM, 60 mM, 80 mM, and 100 mM, were performed. The mixture of materials was developed using the sonication process; furthermore, materials were analyzed using UV-Vis, Z-potential, and Raman spectroscopy techniques. Materials with a molarity of 10 mM exhibited the best results, allowing them to also be stored for four weeks. Regarding the mechanical properties, an increase in the elastic modulus was observed when MWCNTs were included in the cement paste for all storage times. The elastic modulus and the maximum stress increased as the storage time increased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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11 pages, 3886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Study of Sulfur-Added Carbon Nanohorns

by Ysmael Verde-Gómez, Elizabeth Montiel-Macías, Ana María Valenzuela-Muñiz, Ivonne Alonso-Lemus, Mario Miki-Yoshida, Karim Zaghib, Nicolas Brodusch and Raynald Gauvin

Materials 2022, 15(10), 3412; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15103412 - 10 May 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1884

Abstract

In the past few decades, nanostructured carbons (NCs) have been investigated for their interesting properties, which are attractive for a wide range of applications in electronic devices, energy systems, sensors, and support materials. One approach to improving the properties of NCs is to [...] Read more.

In the past few decades, nanostructured carbons (NCs) have been investigated for their interesting properties, which are attractive for a wide range of applications in electronic devices, energy systems, sensors, and support materials. One approach to improving the properties of NCs is to dope them with various heteroatoms. This work describes the synthesis and study of sulfur-added carbon nanohorns (S-CNH). Synthesis of S-CNH was carried out by modified chemical vapor deposition (m-CVD) using toluene and thiophene as carbon and sulfur sources, respectively. Some parameters such as the temperature of synthesis and carrier gas flow rates were modified to determine their effect on the properties of S-CNH. High-resolution scanning and transmission electron microscopy analysis showed the presence of hollow horn-type carbon nanostructures with lengths between 1 to 3 µm and, diameters that are in the range of 50 to 200 nm. Two types of carbon layers were observed, with rough outer layers and smooth inner layers. The surface textural properties are attributed to the defects induced by the sulfur intercalated into the lattice or bonded with the carbon. The XRD patterns and X-ray microanalysis studies show that iron serves as the seed for carbon nanohorn growth and iron sulfide is formed during synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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15 pages, 4539 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on the Salt Freezing Durability of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Ultra-High-Performance Concrete

by Guifeng Liu, Huadi Zhang, Jianpeng Liu, Shuqi Xu and Zhengfa Chen

Materials 2022, 15(9), 3188; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15093188 - 28 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1893

Abstract

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a new type of high-performance cement-based composite. It is widely used in important buildings, bridges, national defense construction, etc. because of its excellent mechanical properties and durability. Freeze thaw and salt erosion damage are one of the main causes [...] Read more.

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a new type of high-performance cement-based composite. It is widely used in important buildings, bridges, national defense construction, etc. because of its excellent mechanical properties and durability. Freeze thaw and salt erosion damage are one of the main causes of concrete structure failure. The use of UHPC prepared with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is an effective method to enhance the durability of concrete structures in complex environments. In this work, the optimal mix proportion based on mechanical properties was obtained by changing the content of MWCNTs and water binder ratio to prepare MWCNTs UHPC. Then, based on the changes in the compressive strength, mass loss rate, and relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME), the damage degree of concrete under different salt erosion during 1500 freeze-thaw (FT) cycles was analyzed. The changes in the micro pore structure were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The test results showed that the optimum mix proportion at the water binder ratio was 0.19 and 0.1% MWCNTs. At this time, the compressive strength was 34.1% higher and the flexural strength was 13.6% higher than when the MWCNTs content was 0. After 1500 salt freezing cycles, the appearance and mass loss of MWCNTs-UHPC prepared according to the best ratio changed little, and the maximum mass loss was 3.18%. The higher the mass fraction of the erosion solution is, the lower the compressive strength and RDME of concrete after FT cycles. The SEM test showed that cracks appeared in the internal structure and gradually increased due to salt freezing damage. However, the microstructure of the concrete was still relatively dense after 1500 salt freezing cycles. The NMR test showed that the salt freezing cycle has a significant influence on the change in the small pores, and the larger the mass fraction of the erosion solution, the smaller the change in the proportion of pores. After 1500 salt freezing cycles, the samples did not fail, which shows that MWCNTs UHPC with a design service life of 150 years has good salt freezing resistance under the coupling effect of salt corrosion and the FT cycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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8 pages, 2167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measurement of the Photothermal Conversion Efficiency of CNT Films Utilizing a Raman Spectrum

by Yu Liu, Zhicheng Lin, Pengfei Wang, Feng Huang and Jia-Lin Sun

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071101 - 27 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2072

Abstract

Because carbon nanotube (CNT) films have high photothermal conversion efficiency (PTCE), they have been widely used in bolometric and photothermoelectric photodetectors, seawater desalination, and cancer therapy. Here, we present a simple, quick, and non-destructive method to measure the PTCE of CNT films. According [...] Read more.

Because carbon nanotube (CNT) films have high photothermal conversion efficiency (PTCE), they have been widely used in bolometric and photothermoelectric photodetectors, seawater desalination, and cancer therapy. Here, we present a simple, quick, and non-destructive method to measure the PTCE of CNT films. According to the linear relationship between the Raman shift of the G⁺ peak and the temperature of a CNT, the offset of the G⁺ peak under varying excitation light power can characterize the changed temperature. Combining the simulation of the temperature distribution, the final value of the PTCE can be obtained. Finally, a CNT film with a high PTCE was chosen to be fabricated as a bolometric photodetector; a quite high responsivity (2 A W⁻¹ at 532 nm) of this device demonstrated the effectiveness of our method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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11 pages, 3270 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Physicochemical Characterization and Antibacterial Properties of Carbon Dots from Two Mediterranean Olive Solid Waste Cultivars

by Giuseppe Nocito, Emanuele Luigi Sciuto, Domenico Franco, Francesco Nastasi, Luca Pulvirenti, Salvatore Petralia, Corrado Spinella, Giovanna Calabrese, Salvatore Guglielmino and Sabrina Conoci

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(5), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12050885 - 07 Mar 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2152

Abstract

Carbon nanomaterials have shown great potential in several fields, including biosensing, bioimaging, drug delivery, energy, catalysis, diagnostics, and nanomedicine. Recently, a new class of carbon nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs), have attracted much attention due to their easy and inexpensive synthesis from a wide [...] Read more.

Carbon nanomaterials have shown great potential in several fields, including biosensing, bioimaging, drug delivery, energy, catalysis, diagnostics, and nanomedicine. Recently, a new class of carbon nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs), have attracted much attention due to their easy and inexpensive synthesis from a wide range of precursors and fascinating physical, chemical, and biological properties. In this work we have developed CDs derived from olive solid wastes of two Mediterranean regions, Puglia (CDs_P) and Calabria (CDs_C) and evaluated them in terms of their physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Results show the nanosystems have a quasi-spherical shape of 12–18 nm in size for CDs_P and 15–20 nm in size for CDs_C. UV–Vis characterization indicates a broad absorption band with two main peaks at about 270 nm and 300 nm, respectively, attributed to the π-π* and n-π* transitions of the CDs, respectively. Both samples show photoluminescence (PL) spectra excitation-dependent with a maximum at λ_em = 420 nm (λ_exc = 300 nm) for CDs_P and a red-shifted at λ_em = 445 nm (λ_exc = 300 nm) for CDs_C. Band gaps values of ≈ 1.48 eV for CDs_P and ≈ 1.53 eV for CDs_C are in agreement with semiconductor behaviour. ζ potential measures show very negative values for CDs_C compared to CDs_P (three times higher, −38 mV vs. −18 mV at pH = 7). The evaluation of the antibacterial properties highlights that both CDs have higher antibacterial activity towards Gram-positive than to Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, CDs_C exhibit bactericidal behaviour at concentrations of 360, 240, and 120 µg/mL, while lesser activity was found for CDs_P (bacterial cell reduction of only 30% at the highest concentration of 360 µg/mL). This finding was correlated to the higher surface charge of CDs_C compared to CDs_P. Further investigations are in progress to confirm this hypothesis and to gain insight on the antibacterial mechanism of both cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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15 pages, 594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Steady Squeezing Flow of Magnetohydrodynamics Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Comprising Carbon Nanotube-Ferrous Oxide/Water with Suction/Injection Effect

by Muhammad Sohail Khan, Sun Mei, Shabnam, Nehad Ali Shah, Jae Dong Chung, Aamir Khan and Said Anwar Shah

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(4), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12040660 - 16 Feb 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 1841

Abstract

The main purpose of the current article is to scrutinize the flow of hybrid nanoliquid (ferrous oxide water and carbon nanotubes) (CNTs + Fe

_{3}

O

_{4}

/H

_{2}

O) in two parallel plates under variable magnetic fields with wall suction/injection. The flow [...] Read more.

The main purpose of the current article is to scrutinize the flow of hybrid nanoliquid (ferrous oxide water and carbon nanotubes) (CNTs + Fe

_{3}

O

_{4}

/H

_{2}

O) in two parallel plates under variable magnetic fields with wall suction/injection. The flow is assumed to be laminar and steady. Under a changeable magnetic field, the flow of a hybrid nanofluid containing nanoparticles Fe

_{3}

O

_{4}

and carbon nanotubes are investigated for mass and heat transmission enhancements. The governing equations of the proposed hybrid nanoliquid model are formulated through highly nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) including momentum equation, energy equation, and the magnetic field equation. The proposed model was further reduced to nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) through similarity transformation. A rigorous numerical scheme in MATLAB known as the parametric continuation method (PCM) has been used for the solution of the reduced form of the proposed method. The numerical outcomes obtained from the solution of the model such as velocity profile, temperature profile, and variable magnetic field are displayed quantitatively by various graphs and tables. In addition, the impact of various emerging parameters of the hybrid nanofluid flow is analyzed regarding flow properties such as variable magnetic field, velocity profile, temperature profile, and nanomaterials volume fraction. The influence of skin friction and Nusselt number are also observed for the flow properties. These types of hybrid nanofluids (CNTs + Fe

_{3}

O

_{4}

/H

_{2}

O) are frequently used in various medical applications. For the validity of the numerical scheme, the proposed model has been solved by another numerical scheme (BVP4C) in MATLAB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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11 pages, 11166 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comprehensive Characterization of Structural, Electrical, and Mechanical Properties of Carbon Nanotube Yarns Produced by Various Spinning Methods

by Takayuki Watanabe, Satoshi Yamazaki, Satoshi Yamashita, Takumi Inaba, Shun Muroga, Takahiro Morimoto, Kazufumi Kobashi and Toshiya Okazaki

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(4), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12040593 - 10 Feb 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2885

Abstract

A comprehensive characterization of various carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns provides insight for producing high-performance CNT yarns as well as a useful guide to select the proper yarn for a specific application. Herein we systematically investigate the correlations between the physical properties of six [...] Read more.

A comprehensive characterization of various carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns provides insight for producing high-performance CNT yarns as well as a useful guide to select the proper yarn for a specific application. Herein we systematically investigate the correlations between the physical properties of six CNT yarns produced by three spinning methods, and their structures and the properties of the constituent CNTs. The electrical conductivity increases in all yarns regardless of the spinning method as the effective length of the constituent CNTs and the density of the yarns increase. On the other hand, the tensile strength shows a much stronger dependence on the packing density of the yarns than the CNT effective length, indicating the relative importance of the interfacial interaction. The contribution of each physical parameter to the yarn properties are quantitatively analyzed by partial least square regression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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14 pages, 13986 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Titanium Dioxide Nanotubes as Solid-Phase Extraction Adsorbent for the Determination of Copper in Natural Water Samples

by Bochra Bejaoui Kefi, Imen Bouchmila, Patrick Martin and Naceur M’Hamdi

Materials 2022, 15(3), 822; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15030822 - 21 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1811

Abstract

To increase the sensitivity of the analysis method of good copper sample preparation is essential. In this context, an analytical method was developed for sensitive determination of Cu (II) in environmental water samples by using TiO₂ nanotubes as a solid-phase extraction absorbent [...] Read more.

To increase the sensitivity of the analysis method of good copper sample preparation is essential. In this context, an analytical method was developed for sensitive determination of Cu (II) in environmental water samples by using TiO₂ nanotubes as a solid-phase extraction absorbent (SPE). Factors affecting the extraction efficiency including the type, volume, concentration, and flow rate of the elution solvent, the mass of the adsorbent, and the volume, pH, and flow rate of the sample were evaluated and optimized. TiO₂ nanotubes exhibited their good enrichment capacity for Cu (II) (~98%). Under optimal conditions, the method of the analysis showed good linearity in the range of 0–22 mg L⁻¹ (R² > 0.99), satisfactory repeatability (relative standard deviation: RSD was 3.16, n = 5), and a detection limit of about 32.5 ng mL⁻¹. The proposed method was applied to real water samples, and the achieved recoveries were above 95%, showing minimal matrix effect and the robustness of the optimized SPE method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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20 pages, 1863 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Unsteady Hybrid Nanofluid Flow Comprising CNTs-Ferrousoxide/Water with Variable Magnetic Field

by Muhammad Sohail Khan, Sun Mei, Shabnam, Unai Fernandez-Gamiz, Samad Noeiaghdam, Said Anwar Shah and Aamir Khan

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(2), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12020180 - 06 Jan 2022

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 2212

Abstract

The introduction of hybrid nanofluids is an important concept in various engineering and industrial applications. It is used prominently in various engineering applications, such as wider absorption range, low-pressure drop, generator cooling, nuclear system cooling, good thermal conductivity, heat exchangers, etc. In this [...] Read more.

The introduction of hybrid nanofluids is an important concept in various engineering and industrial applications. It is used prominently in various engineering applications, such as wider absorption range, low-pressure drop, generator cooling, nuclear system cooling, good thermal conductivity, heat exchangers, etc. In this article, the impact of variable magnetic field on the flow field of hybrid nano-fluid for the improvement of heat and mass transmission is investigated. The main objective of this study is to see the impact of hybrid nano-fluid (ferrous oxide water and carbon nanotubes) CNTs-

F e_{3} O_{4}

,

H_{2} O

between two parallel plates with variable magnetic field. The governing momentum equation, energy equation, and the magnetic field equation have been reduced into a system of highly nonlinear ODEs by using similarity transformations. The parametric continuation method (PCM) has been utilized for the solution of the derived system of equations. For the validity of the model by PCM, the proposed model has also been solved via the shooting method. The numerical outcomes of the important flow properties such as velocity profile, temperature profile and variable magnetic field for the hybrid nanofluid are displayed quantitatively through various graphs and tables. It has been noticed that the increase in the volume friction of the nano-material significantly fluctuates the velocity profile near the channel wall due to an increase in the fluid density. In addition, single-wall nanotubes have a greater effect on temperature than multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Statistical analysis shows that the thermal flow rate of (

F e_{3} O_{4}

-SWCNTs-water) and (

F e_{3} O_{4}

-MWCNTs-water) rises from 1.6336 percent to 6.9519 percent, and 1.7614 percent to 7.4413 percent, respectively when the volume fraction of nanomaterial increases from 0.01 to 0.04. Furthermore, the body force accelerates near the wall of boundary layer because Lorentz force is small near the squeezing plate, as the current being almost parallel to the magnetic field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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22 pages, 11353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Multi-Scale Carbon Nanofiber and Nanotube-Based Cementitious Composites for Reliable Sensing of Tensile Stresses

by Shama Parveen, Bruno Vilela, Olinda Lagido, Sohel Rana and Raul Fangueiro

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12010074 - 28 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1570

Abstract

In this work, multi-scale cementitious composites containing short carbon fibers (CFs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were studied for their tensile stress sensing properties. CF-based composites were prepared by mixing 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 wt.% CFs (of cement) with water using [...] Read more.

In this work, multi-scale cementitious composites containing short carbon fibers (CFs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were studied for their tensile stress sensing properties. CF-based composites were prepared by mixing 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 wt.% CFs (of cement) with water using magnetic stirring and Pluronic F-127 surfactant and adding the mixture to the cement paste. In multi-scale composites, CNFs/MWCNTs (0.1 and 0.15 wt.% of cement) were dispersed in water using Pluronic F-127 and ultrasonication and CFs were then added before mixing with the cement paste. All composites showed a reversible change in the electrical resistivity with tensile loading; the electrical resistivity increased and decreased with the increase and decrease in the tensile load/stress, respectively. Although CF-based composites showed the highest stress sensitivity among all specimens at 0.25% CF content, the fractional change in resistivity (FCR) did not show a linear correlation with the tensile load/stress. On the contrary, multi-scale composites containing CNFs (0.15% CNFs with 0.75% CFs) and MWCNTs (0.1% MWCNTs with 0.5% CFs) showed good stress sensitivity, along with a linear correlation between FCR and tensile load/stress. Stress sensitivities of 6.36 and 11.82%/MPa were obtained for the best CNF and MWCNT-based multi-scale composite sensors, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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19 pages, 3121 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DNAzyme-Amplified Electrochemical Biosensor Coupled with pH Meter for Ca²⁺ Determination at Variable pH Environments

by Hui Wang, Fan Zhang, Yue Wang, Fangquan Shi, Qingyao Luo, Shanshan Zheng, Junhong Chen, Dingzhen Dai, Liang Yang, Xiangfang Tang and Benhai Xiong

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12010004 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2714

Abstract

For more than 50% of multiparous cows, it is difficult to adapt to the sudden increase in calcium demand for milk production, which is highly likely to cause hypocalcemia. An electrochemical biosensor is a portable and efficient method to sense Ca²⁺ concentrations, [...] Read more.

For more than 50% of multiparous cows, it is difficult to adapt to the sudden increase in calcium demand for milk production, which is highly likely to cause hypocalcemia. An electrochemical biosensor is a portable and efficient method to sense Ca²⁺ concentrations, but biomaterial is easily affected by the pH of the analyte solution. Here, an electrochemical biosensor was fabricated using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT), which amplified the impedance signal by changing the structure and length of the DNAzyme. Aiming at the interference of the pH, the electrochemical biosensor (GCE/SWNT/DNAzyme) was coupled with a pH meter to form an electrochemical device. It was used to collect data at different Ca²⁺ concentrations and pH values, and then was processed using different mathematical models, of which GPR showed higher detecting accuracy. After optimizing the detecting parameters, the electrochemical device could determine the Ca²⁺ concentration ranging from 5 μM to 25 mM, with a detection limit of 4.2 μM at pH values ranging from 4.0 to 7.5. Finally, the electrochemical device was used to determine the Ca²⁺ concentrations in different blood and milk samples, which can overcome the influence of the pH. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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11 pages, 3285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Step Synthesis of SnO₂/Carbon Nanotube Nanonests Composites by Direct Current Arc-Discharge Plasma and Its Application in Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Da Zhang, Yuanzheng Tang, Chuanqi Zhang, Qianpeng Dong, Wenming Song and Yan He

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(11), 3138; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11113138 - 21 Nov 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2415

Abstract

Tin dioxide (SnO₂)-based materials, as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), have been attracting growing research attention due to the high theoretical specific capacity. However, the complex synthesis process of chemical methods and the pollution of chemical reagents limit its commercialization. [...] Read more.

Tin dioxide (SnO₂)-based materials, as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), have been attracting growing research attention due to the high theoretical specific capacity. However, the complex synthesis process of chemical methods and the pollution of chemical reagents limit its commercialization. The new material synthesis method is of great significance for expanding the application of SnO₂-based materials. In this study, the SnO₂/carbon nanotube nanonests (SnO₂/CNT NNs) composites are synthesized in one step by direct current (DC) arc-discharge plasma; compared with conventional methods, the plasma synthesis achieves a uniform load of SnO₂ nanoparticles on the surfaces of CNTs while constructing the CNTs conductive network. The SnO₂/CNT NNs composites are applied in LIBs, it can be found that the nanonest-like CNT conductive structure provides adequate room for the volume expansion and also helps to transfer the electrons. Electrochemical measurements suggests that the SnO₂/CNT NNscomposites achieve high capacity, and still have high electrochemical stability and coulombic efficiency under high current density, which proves the reliability of the synthesis method. This method is expected to be industrialized and also provides new ideas for the preparation of other nanocomposites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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15 pages, 3344 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tunable Low Crystallinity Carbon Nanotubes/Silicon Schottky Junction Arrays and Their Potential Application for Gas Sensing

by Alvaro R. Adrian, Daniel Cerda, Leunam Fernández-Izquierdo, Rodrigo A. Segura, José Antonio García-Merino and Samuel A. Hevia

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(11), 3040; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11113040 - 12 Nov 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1910

Abstract

Highly ordered nanostructure arrays have attracted wide attention due to their wide range of applicability, particularly in fabricating devices containing scalable and controllable junctions. In this work, highly ordered carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays grown directly on Si substrates were fabricated, and their electronic [...] Read more.

Highly ordered nanostructure arrays have attracted wide attention due to their wide range of applicability, particularly in fabricating devices containing scalable and controllable junctions. In this work, highly ordered carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays grown directly on Si substrates were fabricated, and their electronic transport properties as a function of wall thickness were explored. The CNTs were synthesized by chemical vapor deposition inside porous alumina membranes, previously fabricated on n-type Si substrates. The morphology of the CNTs, controlled by the synthesis parameters, was characterized by electron microscopies and Raman spectroscopy, revealing that CNTs exhibit low crystallinity (LC). A study of conductance as a function of temperature indicated that the dominant electric transport mechanism is the 3D variable range hopping. The electrical transport explored by I–V curves was approached by an equivalent circuit based on a Schottky diode and resistances related to the morphology of the nanotubes. These junction arrays can be applied in several fields, particularly in this work we explored their performance in gas sensing mode and found a fast and reliable resistive response at room temperature in devices containing LC-CNTs with wall thickness between 0.4 nm and 1.1 nm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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21 pages, 35180 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soft-Landing Dynamic Analysis of a Manned Lunar Lander Em-Ploying Energy Absorption Materials of Carbon Nanotube Buckypaper

by Qi Yuan, Heng Chen, Hong Nie, Guang Zheng, Chen Wang and Likai Hao

Materials 2021, 14(20), 6202; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14206202 - 19 Oct 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1937

Abstract

With the rapid development of the aerospace field, traditional energy absorption materials are becoming more and more inadequate and cannot meet the requirements of having a light weight, high energy absorption efficiency, and high energy absorption density. Since existing studies have shown that [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of the aerospace field, traditional energy absorption materials are becoming more and more inadequate and cannot meet the requirements of having a light weight, high energy absorption efficiency, and high energy absorption density. Since existing studies have shown that carbon nanotube (CNT) buckypaper is a promising candidate for energy absorption, owing to its extremely high energy absorption efficiency and remarkable mass density of energy absorption, this study explores the application of buckypaper as the landing buffer material in a manned lunar lander. Firstly, coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations were implemented to investigate the compression stress-strain relationships of buckypapers with different densities and the effect of the compression rate within the range of the landing velocity. Then, based on a self-designed manned lunar lander, buckypapers of appropriate densities were selected to be the energy absorption materials within the landing mechanisms of the lander. For comparison, suitable aluminum honeycomb materials, the most common energy absorption materials in lunar landers, were determined for the same landing mechanisms. Afterwards, the two soft-landing multibody dynamic models are established, respectively, and their soft-landing performances under three severe landing cases are analyzed, respectively. The results depicted that the landers, respectively, adopting the two energy absorption materials well, satisfy the soft-landing performance requirements in all the cases. It is worth mentioning that the lander employing the buckypaper is proved to demonstrate a better soft-landing performance, mainly reflected in reducing the mass of the energy absorption element by 8.14 kg and lowing the maximum center-of-mass overload of the lander by 0.54 g. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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17 pages, 4058 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Carbon Nanotubes on the Strength of Sand Seeped by Colloidal Silica in Triaxial Testing

by Weifeng Jin, Ying Tao, Xin Wang and Zheng Gao

Materials 2021, 14(20), 6119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14206119 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1660

Abstract

Colloidal silica can quickly seep through sand and then form silica gels to cement sand particles. To improve the strength of sand seeped by colloidal silica, carbon nanotubes were dispersed in the colloidal silica to form carbon-nanotube-reinforced sand-gel composites. Then triaxial tests were [...] Read more.

Colloidal silica can quickly seep through sand and then form silica gels to cement sand particles. To improve the strength of sand seeped by colloidal silica, carbon nanotubes were dispersed in the colloidal silica to form carbon-nanotube-reinforced sand-gel composites. Then triaxial tests were performed to explore how carbon nanotube content affects shear strength. The test results showed that: (1) with the increase of colloidal silica concentration, the shear strength significantly increased with the same carbon nanotube content (especially the low concentration of 10 wt. % colloidal silica, which showed almost no reinforcing effect with carbon nanotubes) while 40 wt. % colloidal silica plus 0.01 wt. % carbon nanotube caused the maximum increase of shear strength by up to 93.65%; (2) there was a concentration threshold of colloidal silica, above which the shear strength first increased to the peak value and then decreased with increasing carbon nanotube content (and we also established a formula to predict such phenomenon); and (3) SEM images showed that carbon nanotubes were connected as several ropes in the micro-cracks of the silica gel, resulting in greater macroscopic shear strength. Our new method of mixing carbon nanotubes and colloidal silica to seep through sand can contribute to sandy ground improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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18 pages, 52753 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical and Experiment Studies of Different Path Planning Methods on Mechanical Properties of Composite Components

by Dongli Wang, Jun Xiao, Xiangwen Ju, Mingyue Dou, Liang Li and Xianfeng Wang

Materials 2021, 14(20), 6100; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14206100 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1410

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to study the effects of different trajectory planning methods on the mechanical properties of components. The scope of the research includes finite element simulation calculation and experimental tests of the actual structure. The test shall be carried [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to study the effects of different trajectory planning methods on the mechanical properties of components. The scope of the research includes finite element simulation calculation and experimental tests of the actual structure. The test shall be carried out in the whole load range until the failure of the structure occurs. Taking the composite conical shell as an example, a variable angle initial path generation method of the conical shell surface is proposed, and the parallel offset algorithms based on partition and the circumferential averaging are proposed to fill the surface. Then, finite element analysis is carried out for the paths that satisfy the manufacturability requirements, the analysis results show that the maximum deformation and maximum transverse as well as longitudinal stress of fiber of circumferential averaging variable angle path conical shell are reduced by 16.3%, 5.85%, and 19.76%, respectively, of that of the partition variable angle path. Finally, the strength analysis of conical shells manufactured by different trajectory design schemes is carried out through finite element analysis and actual failure tests. The finite element analysis results are in good agreement with the experimental results of the actual structure. The results show that the circumferential uniform variable angle has good quality, and it is proved that the path planning algorithm that coordinates path planning and defect suppression plays an important role in optimizing placement trajectory and improving mechanical properties of parts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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15 pages, 3455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of 3D Carbon Nanotube Monoliths for Potential-Controlled Adsorption

by Dennis Röcker, Tatjana Trunzer, Jasmin Heilingbrunner, Janine Rassloff, Paula Fraga-García and Sonja Berensmeier

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(20), 9390; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11209390 - 10 Oct 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1954

Abstract

The design of 3D monoliths provides a promising opportunity to scale the unique properties of singular carbon nanotubes to a macroscopic level. However, the synthesis of carbon nanotube monoliths is often characterized by complex procedures and additives impairing the later macroscopic properties. Here, [...] Read more.

The design of 3D monoliths provides a promising opportunity to scale the unique properties of singular carbon nanotubes to a macroscopic level. However, the synthesis of carbon nanotube monoliths is often characterized by complex procedures and additives impairing the later macroscopic properties. Here, we present a simple and efficient synthesis protocol leading to the formation of free-standing, stable, and highly conductive 3D carbon nanotube monoliths for later application in potential-controlled adsorption in aqueous systems. We synthesized monoliths displaying high tensile strength, excellent conductivity (up to 140 S m⁻¹), and a large specific surface area (up to 177 m² g⁻¹). The resulting monoliths were studied as novel electrode materials for the reversible electrosorption of maleic acid. The process principle was investigated using chronoamperometry and cyclic voltammetry in a two-electrode setup. A stable electrochemical behavior was observed, and the synthesized monoliths displayed capacitive and faradaic current responses. At moderate applied overpotentials (± 500 mV vs. open circuit potential), the monolithic electrodes showed a high loading capacity (~20 µmol g⁻¹) and reversible potential-triggered release of the analyte. Our results demonstrate that carbon nanotube monoliths can be used as novel electrode material to control the adsorption of small organic molecules onto charged surfaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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11 pages, 2343 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tuning Dielectric Loss of SiO₂@CNTs for Electromagnetic Wave Absorption

by Fenghui Cao, Jia Xu, Xinci Zhang, Bei Li, Xiao Zhang, Qiuyun Ouyang, Xitian Zhang and Yujin Chen

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(10), 2636; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11102636 - 07 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1746

Abstract

We developed a simple method to fabricate SiO₂-sphere-supported N-doped CNTs (NCNTs) for electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. EMW absorption was tuned by adsorption of the organic agent on the precursor of the catalysts. The experimental results show that the conductivity loss and [...] Read more.

We developed a simple method to fabricate SiO₂-sphere-supported N-doped CNTs (NCNTs) for electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. EMW absorption was tuned by adsorption of the organic agent on the precursor of the catalysts. The experimental results show that the conductivity loss and polarization loss of the sample are improved. Meanwhile, the impedance matching characteristics can also be adjusted. When the matching thickness was only 1.5 mm, the optimal 3D structure shows excellent EMW absorption performance, which is better than most magnetic carbon matrix composites. Our current approach opens up an effective way to develop low-cost, high-performance EMW absorbers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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18 pages, 4855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Tribological Properties of Vulcanized Natural Rubber Composites by Applications of Carbon Nanotube: A Molecular Dynamics Study

by Fei Teng, Jian Wu, Benlong Su and Youshan Wang

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(9), 2464; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11092464 - 21 Sep 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3029

Abstract

Tribological properties of tread rubber is a key problem for the safety and durability of large aircraft tires. So, new molecular models of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced vulcanized natural rubber (VNR) composites have been developed to study the enhanced tribological properties and reveal [...] Read more.

Tribological properties of tread rubber is a key problem for the safety and durability of large aircraft tires. So, new molecular models of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced vulcanized natural rubber (VNR) composites have been developed to study the enhanced tribological properties and reveal the reinforced mechanism. Firstly, the dynamic process of the CNT agglomeration is discussed from the perspectives of fractional free volume (FFV) and binding energy. Then, a combined explanation of mechanical and interfacial properties is given to reveal the CNT-reinforced mechanism of the coefficient of friction (COF). Results indicate that the bulk, shear and Young’s modulus increase with the increasement of CNT, which are increasement of 19.13%, 21.11% and 26.89% in 15 wt.% CNT/VNR composite compared to VNR; the predicted results are consistent with the existing experimental conclusions, which can be used to reveal the CNT-reinforced mechanism of the rubber materials at atomic scale. It can also guide the design of rubber material prescription for aircraft tire. The molecular dynamics study provides a theoretical basis for the design and preparation of high wear resistance of tread rubber materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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13 pages, 46127 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

A Thermal Transport Study of Branched Carbon Nanotubes with Cross and T-Junctions

by Wei-Jen Chen and I-Ling Chang

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(13), 5933; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11135933 - 25 Jun 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1609

Abstract

This study investigated the thermal transport behaviors of branched carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with cross and T-junctions through non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations. A hot region was created at the end of one branch, whereas cold regions were created at the ends of all [...] Read more.

This study investigated the thermal transport behaviors of branched carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with cross and T-junctions through non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations. A hot region was created at the end of one branch, whereas cold regions were created at the ends of all other branches. The effects on thermal flow due to branch length, topological defects at junctions, and temperature were studied. The NEMD simulations at room temperature indicated that heat transfer tended to move sideways rather than straight in branched CNTs with cross-junctions, despite all branches being identical in chirality and length. However, straight heat transfer was preferred in branched CNTs with T-junctions, irrespective of the atomic configuration of the junction. As branches became longer, the heat current inside approached the values obtained through conventional prediction based on diffusive thermal transport. Moreover, directional thermal transport behaviors became prominent at a low temperature (50 K), which implied that ballistic phonon transport contributed greatly to directional thermal transport. Finally, the collective atomic velocity cross-correlation spectra between branches were used to analyze phonon transport mechanisms for different junctions. Our findings deeply elucidate the thermal transport mechanisms of branched CNTs, which aid in thermal management applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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12 pages, 6707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

1D/2D van der Waals Heterojunctions Composed of Carbon Nanotubes and a GeSe Monolayer

by Yuliang Mao, Zheng Guo, Jianmei Yuan and Tao Sun

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(6), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11061565 - 14 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2461

Abstract

Based on first-principles calculations, we propose van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions composed of one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and two-dimensional GeSe. Our calculations show that (n,0)CNT/GeSe (n = 5–11) heterojunctions are stable through weak vdW interactions. Among these heterojunctions, (n [...] Read more.

Based on first-principles calculations, we propose van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions composed of one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and two-dimensional GeSe. Our calculations show that (n,0)CNT/GeSe (n = 5–11) heterojunctions are stable through weak vdW interactions. Among these heterojunctions, (n,0)CNT/GeSe (n = 5–7) exhibit metallic properties, while (n,0)CNT/GeSe (n = 8–11) have a small bandgap, lower than 0.8 eV. The absorption coefficient of (n,0)CNT/GeSe (n = 8–11) in the ultraviolet and infrared regions is around 10⁵ cm⁻¹. Specifically, we found that (11,0)CNT/GeSe exhibits type-II band alignment and has a high photoelectric conversion efficiency of 17.29%, which suggests prospective applications in photoelectronics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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8 pages, 1728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gas Barrier Performance of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Monolayers Grown on Copper Foils with Electrochemical Polishing

by Chil Hyoung Lee, Go Bong Choi, Eun Mi Kim, Jongho Lee, Jaegeun Lee, Hi Gyu Moon, Myung Jong Kim, Yoong Ahm Kim and Tae Hoon Seo

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(10), 4599; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11104599 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2208

Abstract

The demand for high-performance two-dimensional gas barrier materials is increasing owing to their potential for application in optoelectronic devices. These materials can help the devices maintain their properties over a long period. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the gas barrier performance of [...] Read more.

The demand for high-performance two-dimensional gas barrier materials is increasing owing to their potential for application in optoelectronic devices. These materials can help the devices maintain their properties over a long period. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the gas barrier performance of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) monolayers grown on copper foils via electrochemical polishing (ECP). The ECP treatment helped reduce the surface roughness of the copper foils. As a result, the nucleation density was reduced and highly crystalline h-BN monolayers were produced. The gas barrier performance of h-BN monolayers on copper foils with ECP was comparable to that of graphene. Our finding demonstrates the potential of monolayer h-BN as a high-performance and economical gas barrier material for organic-based optoelectronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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23 pages, 3855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Amplitude and Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Design on Natural Convection within NanoflUid Superposed Wavy Porous Layers

by Ammar I. Alsabery, Tahar Tayebi, Ali S. Abosinnee, Zehba A. S. Raizah, Ali J. Chamkha and Ishak Hashim

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1277; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051277 - 13 May 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2348

Abstract

A numerical study is presented for the thermo-free convection inside a cavity with vertical corrugated walls consisting of a solid part of fixed thickness, a part of porous media filled with a nanofluid, and a third part filled with a nanofluid. Alumina nanoparticle [...] Read more.

A numerical study is presented for the thermo-free convection inside a cavity with vertical corrugated walls consisting of a solid part of fixed thickness, a part of porous media filled with a nanofluid, and a third part filled with a nanofluid. Alumina nanoparticle water-based nanofluid is used as a working fluid. The cavity’s wavy vertical surfaces are subjected to various temperature values, hot to the left and cold to the right. In order to generate a free-convective flow, the horizontal walls are kept adiabatic. For the porous medium, the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium (LTNE) model is used. The method of solving the problem’s governing equations is the Galerkin weighted residual finite elements method. The results report the impact of the active parameters on the thermo-free convective flow and heat transfer features. The obtained results show that the high Darcy number and the porous media’s low modified thermal conductivity ratio have important roles for the local thermal non-equilibrium effects. The heat transfer rates through the nanofluid and solid phases are found to be better for high values of the undulation amplitude, the Darcy number, and the volume fraction of the nanofluid, while a limit in the increase of heat transfer rate through the solid phase with the modified thermal ratio is found, particularly for high values of porosity. Furthermore, as the porosity rises, the nanofluid and solid phases’ heat transfer rates decline for low Darcy numbers and increase for high Darcy numbers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Applications of Carbon Nanotubes)

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