Advanced Nanomaterials Research Articles

Photochromic Color Tuning of Copper‐doped Zinc Sulfide Nanocrystals by Control of Local Dopant Environments

Inorganic photochromic materials offer several advantages over organic compounds, including relatively inexpensive and higher thermal stability. However, tuning their color with the same component has remained a significant challenge. In this study, we demonstrate that the photochromic color of Cu‐doped ZnS nanocrystals (NCs), which is initially pale yellow before light irradiation, can be tuned from gray to brown by adjusting the surface stoichiometry of Zn and S, which is controlled through the use of thiol and non‐thiol ligands. Several experiments and quantum chemical calculations using model clusters revealed that the color change is determined by the distribution of Cu, which significantly contributes to the coloration, specifically whether it resides on the Zn‐rich or S‐rich surface. In contrast, particle size and Cu concentration were found to have little effect on the photochromic color. This study expands the diversity of photochromic responses in inorganic NCs and marks an important step toward the development of further advanced photochromic nanomaterials.

Photochromic Color Tuning of Copper-doped Zinc Sulfide Nanocrystals by Control of Local Dopant Environments.

Inorganic photochromic materials offer several advantages over organic compounds, including relatively inexpensive and higher thermal stability. However, tuning their color with the same component has remained a significant challenge. In this study, we demonstrate that the photochromic color of Cu-doped ZnS nanocrystals (NCs), which is initially pale yellow before light irradiation, can be tuned from gray to brown by adjusting the surface stoichiometry of Zn and S, which is controlled through the use of thiol and non-thiol ligands. Several experiments and quantum chemical calculations using model clusters revealed that the color change is determined by the distribution of Cu, which significantly contributes to the coloration, specifically whether it resides on the Zn-rich or S-rich surface. In contrast, particle size and Cu concentration were found to have little effect on the photochromic color. This study expands the diversity of photochromic responses in inorganic NCs and marks an important step toward the development of further advanced photochromic nanomaterials.

Innovative applications of advanced nanomaterials in cerebrovascular imaging

Cerebrovascular imaging is essential for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cerebrovascular disease, including stroke, aneurysms, and vascular malformations. Conventional imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, DSA and ultrasound have their own strengths and limitations, particularly in terms of resolution, contrast and safety. Recent advances in nanotechnology offer new opportunities for improved cerebrovascular imaging. Nanomaterials, including metallic nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, quantum dots, carbon-based nanomaterials, and polymer nanoparticles, show great potential due to their unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. This review summarizes recent advances in advanced nanomaterials for cerebrovascular imaging and their applications in various imaging techniques, and discusses challenges and future research directions. The aim is to provide valuable insights for researchers to facilitate the development and clinical application of these innovative nanomaterials in cerebrovascular imaging.

Analysis of Giant-Shell CdSe/CdS Quantum Dots via Analytical Ultracentrifugation Combined with Spectrally Resolved Photoluminescence.

Knowledge of the structure-property relationships of functional nanomaterials, including, for example, their size- and composition-dependent photoluminescence (PL) and particle-to-particle variations, is crucial for their design and reproducibility. Herein, the Angstrom-resolution capability of an analytical ultracentrifuge combined with an in-line multiwavelength emission detection system (MWE-AUC) for measuring the sedimentation coefficient-resolved spectrally corrected PL spectra of dispersed nanoparticles is demonstrated. The capabilities of this technique are shown for giant-shell CdSe/CdS quantum dots (g-QDs) with a PL quantum yield (PL QY) close to unity capped with oleic acid and oleylamine ligands. The MWE-AUC PL measurements are calibrated and validated with certified fluorescence standards. The spectrally corrected and size-dependent PL spectra of the g-QDs derived from a single MWE-AUC experiment are then analyzed and compared with the results of single-particle spectroscopic studies, yielding the PL spectra, decay kinetics, and blinking behavior of individual g-QDs. This study underlines the vast potential of MWE-AUC with in-line optical detection for the characterization of advanced nanomaterials with a complex structure.

Types of nanomaterials commonly used in food packaging, film formation techniques, and recent advances in their applications

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive review of the types of nanomaterials commonly used in food packaging, their film formation techniques, and recent advances in their applications. The focus is on the introduction of various nanomaterials, including nanosilver, nano zinc oxide, nano titanium dioxide, nano silicon dioxide, chitosan, polylactic acid, cellulose, starch, and protein, detailing their types and properties. The paper also explores both widely adopted and emerging film formation techniques, such as casting, solution casting, coating, electrospinning, and centrifugal spinning. Furthermore, it delves into the functionalities and advantages of nanomaterials in food packaging, such as antibacterial effects, improved packaging performance, intelligent indicators, and material biodegradability. The paper concludes with a discussion on the current benefits and challenges associated with the use of nanomaterials in food packaging, underscoring the need for further research into their safety and cost-effectiveness.

Revealing the diverse electrochemistry of nanoparticles with scanning electrochemical cell microscopy.

The next generation of electroactive materials will depend on advanced nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles (NPs), for improved function and reduced cost. As such, the development of structure-function relationships for these NPs has become a prime focus for researchers from many fields, including materials science, catalysis, energy storage, photovoltaics, environmental/biomedical sensing, etc. The technique of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) has naturally positioned itself as a premier experimental methodology for the investigation of electroactive NPs, due to its unique capability to encapsulate individual, spatially distinct entities, and to apply a potential to (and measure the resulting current of) single-NPs. Over the course of conducting these single-NP investigations, a number of unexpected (i.e. rarely-reported) results have been collected, including fluctuating current responses, and carrying of the NP by the SECCM probe, hypothesised to be due to insufficient NP-surface interaction. Additionally, locations with measurable electrochemical activity have been found to contain no associated NP, and conversely locations with no activity have been found to contain NPs. Through presenting and discussing these findings, this article seeks to highlight complications in single-NP SECCM experiments, particularly those arising from issues with sample preparation.

Emerging devices based on chiral nanomaterials.

As advanced materials, chiral nanomaterials have recently gained vast attention due to their special geometry-based physical and chemical properties. The fast development of the related science and technology means that various devices involving polarization-based information encryption, photoelectronic and spintronic devices, 3D displays, biomedical sensors and measurement, photonic engineering, electronic engineering, solar devices, etc., been explored extensively. These fields are at their beginning, and much effort needs to be made, including improving the optical, electronic, and magnetic properties of advanced chiral nanomaterials, precisely designing materials, and developing more efficient construction methods. This review tries to offer a whole picture of these state-of-the-art conditions in these fields and offers perspectives on future development.

In situ transmission electron microscopy insights into nanoscale deformation mechanisms of body-centered cubic metals.

Nanostructured body-centered cubic (BCC) metals exhibit remarkable mechanical properties under various stress fields, making them promising candidates for novel micro/nanoelectromechanical systems (M/NEMS). A deep understanding of their mechanical behaviors, particularly at the atomic scale, is essential for optimizing their properties and expanding their applications at the nanoscale. Newly developed nanomechanical testing techniques within transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provide powerful tools for uncovering the atomic-scale microstructural evolution of nanostructured BCC materials under external forces. This article reviews recent progress in the experimental methods used in in situ TEM nanomechanical testing and the achievements of these techniques in understanding the deformation mechanisms of BCC nanomaterials. By outlining the current challenges and future research directions, this review aims to inspire continued exploration in the nanomechanics of BCC metals, contributing to the development of advanced BCC nanomaterials with tailored mechanical properties.

Nano Delivery System for Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis, a pathological process propelled by inflammatory mediators and lipids, is a principal contributor to cardiovascular disease incidents. Currently, drug therapy, the primary therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis, faces challenges such as poor stability and significant side effects. The advent of nanomaterials has garnered considerable attention from scientific researchers. Nanoparticles, such as liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles, have been developed for drug delivery in atherosclerosis treatment. This review will focus on how nanoparticles effectively improve drug safety and efficacy, as well as the continuous development and optimization of nanoparticles of the same material and further explore current challenges and future opportunities in this field.

Application of Carrera Unified Formulation and Hybrid AI-Composition with CNN and ReliefF feature selection: presenting some useful suggestions for improving the stability of football and sport equipment via advanced nanocomposites

This study explores the dynamic deflection and vibrational analysis of a spherical shell, modeled as a football game ball, reinforced with graphene platelet nanocomposites (GPLs). The analysis leverages the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF) for accurate and efficient modeling of the mechanical behavior of the shell under dynamic loads. CUF’s flexibility in adapting to complex geometries and material properties is utilized to represent the heterogeneous reinforcement of GPLs within the spherical shell structure. To enhance the reliability of the computational results, a hybrid artificial intelligence (AI) framework is implemented for result verification. This framework integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for spatial data representation with ReliefF feature selection to identify and prioritize influential variables. The hybrid AI system ensures robust predictive modeling, addressing the high-dimensional nature of the problem domain. The study also delves into the implications of graphene reinforcement on the ball’s performance, focusing on factors such as deformation under load, vibrational response, and stability thresholds. The results indicate that GPL reinforcement significantly improves the dynamic stability and stiffness of the spherical shell. Comparative analyses validate the efficiency of the CUF-based computational approach through mathematics benchmarks and AI-verified predictions. This interdisciplinary work highlights the potential of combining advanced computational mechanics, nanomaterials, and AI-driven verification in optimizing dynamic stability for applications in sports engineering and beyond.

Fractal configurations of zigzag hexagonal type coronoid molecules: Graph-theoretical modeling and its impact on physicochemical behavior

Abstract Coronene, a benzenoid compound, holds significant potential for applications in diverse fields, including organic chemistry, materials science, and pharmaceuticals. This study focuses on the structural analysis of Zigzag Hexagonal Coronene Fractal (ZHCF), a unique molecular configuration with significant implications for materials science and nanotechnology. Utilizing topological indices across two-dimensional chemical structure networks, we evaluate critical physicochemical properties of these molecules. Analytical expressions for a wide range of connection number-based topological descriptors are derived, enabling the prediction of properties such as entropy, enthalpy of vaporization, boiling point, and the acentric factor. The use of these mathematical tools provides a deeper understanding of the molecular connectivity and distribution patterns within the ZHCF framework, revealing insights into its stability and potential functionality. The results demonstrate how these indices can effectively capture the structural nuances of complex molecular graphs, aiding in the rational design of advanced nanomaterials with improved optical and electronic properties. This research not only showcases the predictive power of topological descriptors but also highlights the potential applications of coronoid-based structures in creating high-performance materials for various technological and scientific advancements. The findings pave the way for future exploration of coronoid structures in developing innovative solutions across diverse fields.

Cationic Ring-Opening Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly (CROPISA) of 2-Oxazolines: From Block Copolymers to One-Step Gradient Copolymer Nanoparticles.

In recent years, polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) has emerged as a powerful method for the straightforward synthesis of polymer nanoparticles at high concentration. In this study, we describe for the first time the synthesis of poly(2-oxazoline) nanoparticles by dispersion cationic ring-opening polymerization-induced self-assembly (CROPISA) in n-dodecane. Specifically, a n-dodecane-soluble aliphatic poly(2-(3-ethylheptyl)-2-oxazoline) (PEHOx) block was chain-extended with poly(2-phenyl-2-oxazoline) (PPhOx). While the PhOx monomer is soluble in n-dodecane, its polymerization leads to n-dodecane-insoluble PPhOx, which leads to in situ self-assembly of the formed PEHOx-b-PPhOx copolymers. The polymerization kinetics and micellization upon second block formation were studied, and diverse nanoparticle dispersions were prepared, featuring varying block lengths and polymer concentrations, leading to dispersions with distinctive morphologies and physical properties. Finally, we developed a single-step protocol for the synthesis of polymer nanoparticles directly from monomers via gradient copolymerization CROPISA, which exploits the significantly greater reactivity of EHOx compared to that of PhOx during the statistical copolymerization of both monomers. Notably, this approach provides access to formulations with monomer compositions otherwise unattainable through the block copolymerization method. Given the synthetic versatility and application potential of poly(2-oxazolines), the developed CROPISA method can pave the way for advanced nanomaterials with favorable properties as demonstrated by using the obtained nanoparticles for stabilization of Pickering emulsions.

Cationic Ring‐Opening Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly (CROPISA) of 2‐Oxazolines: From Block Copolymers to One‐Step Gradient Copolymer Nanoparticles

AbstractIn recent years, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has emerged as a powerful method for the straightforward synthesis of polymer nanoparticles at high concentration. In this study, we describe for the first time the synthesis of poly(2‐oxazoline) nanoparticles by dispersion cationic ring‐opening polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (CROPISA) in n‐dodecane. Specifically, a n‐dodecane‐soluble aliphatic poly(2‐(3‐ethylheptyl)‐2‐oxazoline) (PEHOx) block was chain‐extended with poly(2‐phenyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PPhOx). While the PhOx monomer is soluble in n‐dodecane, its polymerization leads to n‐dodecane‐insoluble PPhOx, which leads to in situ self‐assembly of the formed PEHOx‐b‐PPhOx copolymers. The polymerization kinetics and micellization upon second block formation were studied, and diverse nanoparticle dispersions were prepared, featuring varying block lengths and polymer concentrations, leading to dispersions with distinctive morphologies and physical properties. Finally, we developed a single‐step protocol for the synthesis of polymer nanoparticles directly from monomers via gradient copolymerization CROPISA, which exploits the significantly greater reactivity of EHOx compared to that of PhOx during the statistical copolymerization of both monomers. Notably, this approach provides access to formulations with monomer compositions otherwise unattainable through the block copolymerization method. Given the synthetic versatility and application potential of poly(2‐oxazolines), the developed CROPISA method can pave the way for advanced nanomaterials with favorable properties as demonstrated by using the obtained nanoparticles for stabilization of Pickering emulsions.

Red-light Emitting Orthogonally Trireactive Gold Nanoclusters for the Synthesis of Multifunctionalized Nanomaterials.

For the development of highly multifunctionalized nanomaterials, the introduction of functional molecules on gold nanoclusters containing thiols preinstalled with connecting groupsconstitutes a promising approach. However, the uniform introduction of multiple connecting groups while avoiding side reactions is a challenging task. Herein, the synthesis of gold nanoclusters (ca. 1nm) coated with thiol peptides bearing azido, amino, and aminooxy groups is reported. These nanoclusters emit red-light before and after the functionalization, enabling application to cell imaging. A detailed structure analysis using transmission electron microscope and X-ray absorption spectroscopy reveals the formation of Aun(SR)m nanoclusters as promising motifs for red-light emission. The sequential modification of the trireactive nanoclusters with RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptides, metal chelators, and anticancer drugs via [3+2] cycloaddition, oximation, and amidation reactions at each functional group furnish red-light-emissive nanomaterials exhibiting remarkable toxicity against A549 human lung cancer cells. Integration of the multiligation chemistry and gold nanocluster engineering pave the way toward the development of advanced multifunctional nanomaterials for biological applications.

Exploring the role of edges in surface functionalization and stability of plasma-modified carbon materials: Experimental and DFT insights

Effective surface functionalization of carbon nanomaterials plays a crucial role in various applications. We investigated the impact of edges on surface functionalization and stability of oxygen-modified carbon materials using a combination of experimental techniques and Density Functional Theory (DFT) insights. Graphenic paper, highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), and graphenic flakes were employed as model systems, with oxygen plasma treatment (generator power 100 W, oxygen pressure 0.2 mbar, exposure time 6 – 300 s) serving as the modification method. Surface morphology and chemical composition were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The results revealed the introduction of oxygen functional groups on the investigated carbon surfaces (up to 20 at % by XPS) whereas; the structural integrity of the materials remained intact upon plasma modification (SEM, Raman). Work function was used as a sensitive parameter for monitoring the surface changes (increase by ∼1.4 eV, 1.3 eV, and 1 eV for graphenic paper, HOPG, and graphenic flakes, respectively) while time-dependent measurements revealed distinct kinetic processes governing the decay of functionalization, highlighting the role of surface defects in post-plasma processes. DFT calculations provided molecular-level insights into the surface processes, elucidating the mechanisms underlying the diffusion of hydroxyls, their recombination, and water desorption. Since the calculated activation barrier for recombination on basal graphenic planes (∼1.0 eV) and edges (∼5.5 eV) are distinctly different, it can be thus concluded that the persistent functionalization is due to the surface edges. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of surface modification processes of carbon materials and offer rationales for the design of advanced functional nanomaterials with tailored surface properties.

Plant-based protein amyloid fibrils: Origins, formation, extraction, applications, and safety.

Amyloid fibrils (AFs) are highly ordered nanostructures formed through the self-assembly of proteins under specific conditions. Due to their unique properties, AFs have garnered significant attention as biomaterials over the past decade. Nevertheless, the increasing reliance on animal proteins for AFs production raises sustainability concerns, highlighting the need for a transition to plant-based proteins as more environmentally friendly feedstocks. This review summarizes the conditions, mechanisms, and factors influencing the fibrillisation of over 20 plant-based protein amyloid fibrils (PAFs). The effectiveness of enzymatic extraction and membrane separation for isolating PAFs was also evaluated. Additionally, the review discusses the potential for enhancing PAFs' suitability through cross-linking with external agents. In the future, PAFs may be developed as advanced nanomaterials for a range of applications, including food hydrogels, cell-cultured meat scaffolds, and food detection sensors. However, thorough investigation of safety concerns and process improvements remain the primary challenges for the development of PAFs.

Recent developments in melamine detection: Applications of gold and silver nanostructures in colorimetric and fluorometric assays

The purity of milk, traditionally regarded as a symbol of health and nourishment, has been undermined by the alarming issue of melamine (MLM) adulteration. This nitrogen-rich compound is illicitly introduced to falsely enhance protein content, posing significant health risks. Traditional detection methods are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, or require expensive equipment. In response, researchers have developed colorimetric detection techniques to efficiently screen milk for MLM contamination. These methods are particularly promising due to their ease of preparation, rapid detection, high sensitivity, and capability for naked-eye detection. Furthermore, the unique optical properties of advanced nanomaterials have facilitated fluorometric detection, wherein the presence of contaminants induces detectable changes in fluorescence intensity or wavelength. This study offers an in-depth review of recent advancements in colorimetric and fluorometric probes based on silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanostructures, exploring their application in food analysis. It delves into the underlying sensing mechanisms of these probes, showcasing their efficacy in detecting food contaminants. Despite the numerous advantages of Ag and Au nanostructure-based probes, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the complexity of food matrices, achieving simultaneous detection of multiple analytes, and mitigating interference from testing conditions. Additionally, this review highlights the emergence of immunoassay-based sensors, noting that many commercially available MLM testing kits utilize ELISA and LFIA platforms. For the first time, a comprehensive list of MLM testing devices and assay kits is presented, accompanied by key findings from recent studies and recommendations for future research directions.

Application of Fluorescence- and Bioluminescence-Based Biosensors in Cancer Drug Discovery.

Recent advances in drug discovery have established biosensors as indispensable tools, particularly valued for their precision, sensitivity, and real-time monitoring capabilities. The review begins with a brief overview of cancer drug discovery, underscoring the pivotal role of biosensors in advancing cancer research. Various types of biosensors employed in cancer drug discovery are then explored, with particular emphasis on fluorescence- and bioluminescence-based technologies such as FRET, TR-FRET, BRET, NanoBRET, and NanoBiT. These biosensors have enabled breakthrough discoveries, including the identification of Celastrol as a novel YAP-TEAD inhibitor through NanoBiT-based screening, and the development of TR-FRET assays that successfully identified Ro-31-8220 as a SMAD4R361H/SMAD3 interaction inducer. The integration of biosensors in high throughput screening and validation for cancer drug compounds is examined, highlighting successful applications such as the development of LATS biosensors that revealed VEGFR as an upstream regulator of the Hippo signaling pathway. Real-time monitoring of cellular responses through biosensors has yielded invaluable insights into cancer cell signaling pathways, as demonstrated by NanoBRET assays detecting RAF dimerization and HiBiT systems monitoring protein degradation dynamics. The review addresses challenges linked to biosensor applications, such as maintaining stability in complex tumor microenvironments and achieving consistent sensitivity in HTS applications. Emerging trends are discussed, including integrating artificial intelligence and advanced nanomaterials for enhanced biosensor performance. In conclusion, this review offers a comprehensive analysis of fluorescence- and bioluminescence-based biosensor applications in the dynamic cancer drug discovery field, presenting quantitative evidence of their impact and highlighting their potential to revolutionize targeted cancer treatments.

Exploring Anisotropy Contributions in Mn x Co1-x Fe2O4 Ferrite Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications.

Designing well-defined magnetic nanomaterials is crucial for various applications, and it demands a comprehensive understanding of their magnetic properties at the microscopic level. In this study, we investigate the contributions to the total anisotropy of Mn/Co mixed spinel nanoparticles. By employing neutron measurements sensitive to the spatially resolved surface anisotropy with sub-Å space resolution, we reveal an additional contribution to the anisotropy constant arising from shape anisotropy and interparticle interactions. Our findings shed light on the intricate interplay among chemical composition, microstructure, morphology, and surface effects, providing valuable insights for the design of advanced magnetic nanomaterials for AC biomedical applications, such as cancer treatment by magnetic fluid hyperthermia.

Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Glucose Sensing: Advancing Non‐Invasive Detection Strategies in Diabetes Management

AbstractEffective glucose monitoring is critical for managing diabetes and preventing its associated complications. While commercial glucose monitoring devices predominantly rely on blood samples, emerging research focuses on detecting glucose in alternative biofluids, harnessing advanced nanomaterials. Among these, Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs), composed of metal ions and organic ligands, have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties, including tunable porosity, high surface area, and abundant active sites conducive to glucose interaction. MOFs present a versatile platform for glucose sensing, offering potential in both enzymatic and non‐enzymatic detection methods. This review delves into the recent advancements in MOFs‐based electrochemical glucose sensors, providing a comprehensive analysis of various MOFs and their composites as electrode materials. The discussion highlights the structural attributes, functionalization strategies, and electrochemical performance of MOFs in glucose sensing, emphasizing their role in the development of next‐generation, non‐invasive glucose monitoring technologies. The review provides a comprehensive overview on the application of MOFs and MOFs‐based composites in both enzymatic and non‐enzymatic electrochemical‐based glucose sensing and highlights the synthesis, mechanism, functionalization and development in the detection strategy of MOFs in glucose sensing.