Applications Of Metal Nanoparticles Research Articles

Applications of Metal Nanoparticles in Healthcare and Food Safety

The increased world population has led to a rise in pollution, raising the risk of food contamination and foodborne illness. It is often said that illness enters by the mouth. Food spoilage has always been a great hazard to human health. Therefore, ensuring the safety of food is essential in the pursuit of good health. The advent of nanotechnology has sparked potential in the food industry. Nanotechnology has also shown its ability to reduce cases of foodborne diseases, thereby improving global food security from the root. With the introduction of nanoparticles (NPs), particularly metal NPs like gold and silver, food processing and delivery methods have been further refined. These NPs have demonstrated effective resistance against pathogens. Their antimicrobial abilities play a vital role in nano materials for food packaging. The main mechanism of metal NPs involves their interaction with bacterial cell walls, which enhances cell wall permeability and achieves cell wall damage. At the same time, toxic radicals are released from the NPs and can be dissolved to be absorbed by bacteria. These results in the leakage of cellular contents, inhibiting cell replication, and ultimately, cell death. The application of metal-based NPs significantly contributes to food safety. Therefore, in this work, the applications of various nanomaterials in food safety and healthcare are discussed in detail. This work will contribute to promoting the deep application of nanomaterials in food safety and healthcare.

Biofabrication of Silver Nanoparticles Using Pergularia tomentosa Extract and Evaluation of Their Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Properties.

The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using plant extracts is a promising field of research because of the useful biomedical applications of metal nanoparticles. In this study, the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized with the aqueous leaf extract of Pergularia tomentosa were defined using a simple, eco-friendly, consistent, and cost-effective method. The leaf extract of Pergularia tomentosa (PT) served as a capping and reducing agent to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles. The effects of several parameters, such as the concentration of AgNO3, ratio of AgNO3 to extract, pH, and incubation time, were examined to optimize the synthesis process. In total, 5 mM of AgNO3, a 1:0.06 ratio of AgNO3 to Pergularia tomentosa extract, pH 9.0, and reaction mixture incubation for 24 h were found to be the ideal parameters for biosynthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the biosynthesized Pergularia tomentosa silver nanoparticles (PT-AgNPs). Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Salmonella enteritides and Escherichia coli) were used to test the PT-AgNPs' antibacterial activity. The presence of different functional groups was determined using FTIR. The AgNPs were hexagon shaped. The nanoparticles were more toxic against S. enteritides than both B. cereus and E. coli. In antioxidant analyses, the AgNPs were found to be as strong at free radical scavenging as gallic acid (standard), with IC50 values of 0.69 and 22.30 μg/mL for DPPH and ABTS radicals, respectively. Interestingly, the PT-AgNPs displayed increased anti-inflammatory activity compared with the P. tomentosa leaf extract (79% vs. 59% at 500 µg/mL). The PT-AgNPs did not display any cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 cell line at the MIC. In conclusion, silver nanoparticles fortified with Pergularia tomentosa extract exhibited potential as effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agents, suggesting their viability as alternatives to commercially available products.

Recent advances in synthesis and bio-applications of natural stabilizers for metal nanoparticles

Due to their exceptional physicochemical properties, the synthesis and application of metal nano-particles gained significant traction and a grip in industries and scientific fields or regions. However, the thermodynamic instability of metal nanoparticles poses or leads to challenges in their controlled synthesis and stabilization. To address this stability and the immobilization strategies, natural polymers such as cellulose, starch, alginate, chitosan, and hyaluronic acid have been explored for their non-toxic, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly characteristics. Recent advances in nanotechnology have led to an increased focus on these natural polymer’s utilization as effective stabilizers for diverse metal nanoparticles. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in utilizing these natural polymers as stabilizers for metal nanoparticles. Synthesis methods, stabilization mechanisms, and applications spanning catalysis, sensing, drug delivery, and biomedical imaging are discussed. Challenges such as scalability and reproducibility are addressed, alongside future directions for research and development. In this review, our goal is to encourage continued research and creativity in sustainable nanomaterials. By doing so, we hope to advance the development of adaptable and environmentally friendly nanoparticles that find applications across various industries.

Advanced application of metal nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Advanced application of metal nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Metallic nanoparticles: a promising novel therapeutic tool against antimicrobial resistance and spread of superbugs.

In recent years, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become an alarming threat to global health as notable increase in morbidity and mortality has been ascribed to the emergence of superbugs. The increase in microbial resistance because of harboured or inherited resistomes has been complicated by the lack of new and effective antimicrobial agents, as well as misuse and failure of existing ones. These problems have generated severe and growing public health concern, due to high burden of bacterial infections resulting from scarce financial resources and poor functioning health systems, among others. It is therefore, highly pressing to search for novel and more efficacious alternatives for combating the action of these super bacteria and their infection. The application of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) with their distinctive physical and chemical attributes appears as promising tools in fighting off these deadly superbugs. The simple, inexpensive and eco-friendly model for enhanced biologically inspired MNPs with exceptional antimicrobial effect and diverse mechanisms of action againsts multiple cell components seems to offer the most promising option and said to have enticed many researchers who now show tremendous interest. This synopsis offers critical discussion on application of MNPs as the foremost intervening strategy to curb the menace posed by the spread of superbugs. As such, this review explores how antimicrobial properties of the metallic nanoparticles which demonstrated considerable efficacy against several multi-drugs resistant bacteria, could be adopted as promising approach in subduing the threat of AMR and harvoc resulting from the spread of superbugs.

Capped Plasmonic Gold and Silver Nanoparticles with Porphyrins for Potential Use as Anticancer Agents—A Review

Photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are potential cancer treatment methods that are minimally invasive with high specificity for malignant cells. Emerging research has concentrated on the application of metal nanoparticles encapsulated in porphyrin and their derivatives to improve the efficacy of these treatments. Gold and silver nanoparticles have distinct optical properties and biocompatibility, which makes them efficient materials for PDT and PTT. Conjugation of these nanoparticles with porphyrin derivatives increases their light absorption and singlet oxygen generation that create a synergistic effect that increases phototoxicity against cancer cells. Porphyrin encapsulation with gold or silver nanoparticles improves their solubility, stability, and targeted tumor delivery. This paper provides comprehensive review on the design, functionalization, and uses of plasmonic silver and gold nanoparticles in biomedicine and how they can be conjugated with porphyrins for synergistic therapeutic effects. Furthermore, it investigates this dual-modal therapy’s potential advantages and disadvantages and offers perspectives for future prospects. The possibility of developing gold, silver, and porphyrin nanotechnology-enabled biomedicine for combination therapy is also examined.

Chitosan: A Green Approach to Metallic Nanoparticle/Nanocomposite Synthesis and Applications.

Chitosan, a naturally occurring biopolymer derived from chitin, has emerged as a highly promising instrument for the production and application of metal nanoparticles. The present review delves into the several functions of chitosan in the development and operation of metal nanoparticles, emphasizing its aptitudes as a green reducing agent, shape-directing agent, size-controlling agent, and stabilizer. Chitosan's special qualities make it easier to manufacture metal nanoparticles and nanocomposites with desired characteristics. Furthermore, there is a lot of promise for chitosan-based nanocomposites in a number of fields, such as metal removal, water purification, and photoacoustic, photothermal, antibacterial, and photodynamic therapies. This thorough analysis highlights the potential application of chitosan in the advancement of nanotechnology and the development of medicinal and environmental solutions.

A Comprehensive Review of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles as Effective Antibacterial Agents.

The increasing threat from antibiotic-resistant bacteria has necessitated the development of novel methods to counter bacterial infections. In this context, the application of metallic nanoparticles (NPs), especially gold (Au) and silver (Ag), has emerged as a promising strategy due to their remarkable antibacterial properties. This review examines research published between 2006 and 2023, focusing on leading journals in nanotechnology, materials science, and biomedical research. The primary applications explored are the efficacy of Ag and Au NPs as antibacterial agents, their synthesis methods, morphological properties, and mechanisms of action. An extensive review of the literature on NPs synthesis, morphology, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and effectiveness against various Gram(+/-) bacteria confirms the antibacterial efficacy of Au and Ag NPs. The synthesis methods and characteristics of NPs, such as size, shape, and surface charge, are crucial in determining their antibacterial activity, as these factors influence their interactions with bacterial cells. Furthermore, this review underscores the urgent necessity of standardizing synthesis techniques, MICs, and reporting protocols to enhance the comparability and reproducibility of future studies. Standardization is essential for ensuring the reliability of research findings and accelerating the clinical application of NP-based antimicrobial approaches. This review aims to propel NP-based antimicrobial strategies by elucidating the properties that enhance the antibacterial activity of Ag and Au NPs. By highlighting their inhibitory effects against various bacterial strains and relatively low cytotoxicity, this work positions Ag and Au NPs as promising materials for developing antibacterial agents, making a significant contribution to global efforts to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Annular optical trapping of metallic nanoparticles using the azimuthally polarized beam.

The unique physical and chemical properties make metallic nanoparticles promising for broad applications in many fields. Exploring the dynamics of metallic nanoparticles in optical traps is crucial for exploiting optical tweezers to advance the applications of metallic particles. In this paper, we present a detailed study of the annular optical trapping of gold nanoparticles with azimuthal polarization. Theoretical analysis based on the T-matrix method shows that the gold nanoparticles experience optical forces pointing to the equilibrium position along the radial direction, while there is no force along the azimuthal direction at this equilibrium position. Therefore, a tightly focused azimuthally polarized beam captures gold nanoparticles in an annular region. Experimental measurements of the motion trajectory of the confined gold nanoparticles reveal a donut profile consistent with the theoretical predictions. Our work reported in this paper is expected to deepen our understanding of the interactions between metallic nanoparticles and light and promote the application of metallic nanoparticles.

Influence of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles on growth and total phenolic content accumulation of Anoectochilus roxburghii cultured in vitro

The application of metal nanoparticles in agriculture and related fields, especially in plant cell tissue culture has increased interest in recent years due to its potential benefits. This study used gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4NPs) to evaluate their effect on the growth and total phenolic content (TPC) of Anoectochilus roxburghii. The results showed that Fe3O4 NPs were the most positively influenced metal nanoparticles in increasing biomass and TPC of A. roxburghii among metal nanoparticles tested. After 8 weeks of culture, the dry weight (DW) and TPC of the plants cultured on the medium containing 5 ppm Fe3O4NPs were 39.07 mg and 13.0 mg gallic acid respectively per g of dry weight (mg GAE/g DW). Meanwhile, on the medium without Fe3O4NPs, they were 30.47 mg and 6.71 mg GAE/g DW respectively. This study proposed an effective approach to improve the growth and accumulation of TPC in A. roxburghii. Moreover, it suggests the potential application of metal nanoparticles in plant tissue culture and the production of bioactive compounds.

Silver nanoparticles from ascorbic acid: Biosynthesis, characterization, in vitro safety profile, antimicrobial activity and phytotoxicity

Skin lesions are caused by the interruption of their functions, causing several possibilities of injury, and affecting the patient's quality of life. Thus, an effective alternative to this problem is the application of metallic nanoparticles with considerable antimicrobial activity, such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). In this context, the present study aims to synthesize and characterize AgNPs from l-ascorbic acid (AA) for a possible cutaneous tissue engineering, evaluating the in vitro safety profile (VERO cells line), antimicrobial activity (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains), genotoxicity effect and phytotoxicity (Lactuca sativa and Beta vulgaris L. seeds). The novelty of the present study consists of applying green silver nanoparticles for potential application in skin lesions, followed by the study of toxicity in seeds (phytotoxicity), cells (cytotoxicity and genotoxicity with the in vitro safety profile), and antimicrobial activity. X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 porosimetry, Field Emission Gun – Scanning Electron Microscope (FEG-SEM), zeta potential (ZP), Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to evaluate the morphological, structural, and textural properties of the AgNPs. XRD diffractogram showed characteristic peaks of a face-centered cubic crystal structure at 38.06° (111); 44.26° (200); 64.45° (220); 77.37° (311) and 81.34° (200). FEG-SEM micrography indicated a predominantly spherical morphology and uniformly distributed structure with an average size of 58.4 ± 19 nm. Moreover, AgNPs demonstrated functional groups characteristics of the reducing agent and the metallic precursor, such as the –OH, –CH, –CO, - CC, and Ag–O stretchings. AgNPs showed SBET = 0.3 ± 0.0085 m2 g−1, Dp = 16.2 ± 10.2 nm, Vp = 0.0008 ± 0.0002 cm³ g−1 and ZP = −27.6 ± 1.9 mV with hysteresis type H1 and mesoporous characteristics. EDX analysis indicated the presence of AgNPs (72.34 wt% and 10.46 wt% silver and oxygen respectively) indicating the effectiveness of the biosynthesis process. For the in vitro safety profile, AgNPs did not show cytotoxicity on VERO cells ranging from 0.5 to 150 μg mL−1 with a good gemoprotection. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) showed that AgNPs have an inhibition of 312 μg mL−1 and 156 μg mL−1 on Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, respectively. The phytotoxicity showed that only high concentrations (50 and 100 μg mL−1) of AgNPs interfered with seed growth. Therefore, AgNPs biosynthesized from l-ascorbic acid (AA) have potential applications as antimicrobial dressings and are biocompatible for application in skin lesions.

Refining laser-induced dewetting for bimetallic Au–Pd nanoparticle synthesis on ZnO thin films: Optimizing fluence for substrate integrity

We report the fabrication of metal alloy Au–Pd nanoparticles on semiconductor thin film substrates (ZnO) by laser-induced dewetting. Employing a UV excimer laser, a single pulse was directed onto a three-layer film stack on a glass substrate: glass/ZnO/Au/Pd and glass/ZnO/Pd/Au. We simulated the temperature attained by the thin films enabling the prediction of energy thresholds required for melting the metal films but avoiding modifying the ZnO film. A specific range is reported of the pulse energy conducive to nanoparticle formation and the energy threshold required to modify the ZnO film beneath them. Depending on the pulse energy applied, the mean diameter of the nanoparticles varied from approximately 150 to around 70 nm. Notably, higher fluences resulted in smaller particles but also induced surface cracks in the ZnO film. Additionally, we observed a reduction in nanoparticle size with increased Pd content. Our results show that laser-induced dewetting can produce bimetallic alloy nanoparticles and, at the same time, ensure the preservation of the optical properties of the ZnO film. This approach opens avenues for tailoring material characteristics and expanding the range of applications of metal nanoparticles on semiconductor-based systems.

Silver Nanoparticles in Food Bio Packaging. A Short Review

Abstract For human survival, the agri-food sector is fundamental, starting from the cultivation of the land to the production of food that ends up on our tables. Unfortunately, over time, this sector has faced numerous challenges, such as the appearance of pests, environmental pollution, short shelf life and, last but not least, inadequate packaging materials. All these challenges have led researchers from all over the world to find new alternatives to guarantee food safety. The application of nanomaterials, i.e. nanoparticles, could be the solution sought by all scientists. In recent years, nanotechnology has made remarkable progress, especially regarding the application of metallic nanoparticles and their synthesis methods. In particular, silver nanoparticles have attracted attention, due to their special antimicrobial, electrical and optical properties, but also to the fact that they can be combined with nondegradable, biodegradable and edible polymers. However, there are many concerns regarding the toxicity of these nanoparticles. This article aims to present some recent findings regarding the application of silver nanoparticles in food bio packaging.

Optimization of Organic Capping Material on Silver Nanoparticles by Chemical Reduction and Its Functionalization for Plasmonic Sensor Application

The application of metal nanoparticles in medicine and optoelectronic devices recently has shown remarkable results. In the application of biosensor, metal nanoparticles are functionalized by the used of organic materials such as thiol-derivatives and citrate because of their high affinity to metal such as gold and silver also those organic material is dispersed in water that can be applied directly to bio-materials. Herein, we present the optimization study of capping molecules Trisodium citrate and 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3-MPA) on silver nanoparticles (AgNP) by used of modified chemical reduction and exchange ligand methods to form stable AgNP. The optimization of AgNP was done by varying the ratio among the concentration of the precursor (AgNO3), reducing agent and capping materials. Our colloidal AgNP products show bright yellow to yellow-brownish colour with the plasmonic peak for citrate capped AgNP (Ag-Citrate) at 410-424 nm, 3-MPA capped AgNP (Ag-MPA) by direct method at 428-440 nm, and 3-MPA capped AgNP (Ag-MPA) by ligand exchange method at 436-462 nm. The chemical characteristics of our Ag-citrate and Ag-MPA show the differences coordination of COO- between free citrate or 3-MPA and after citrate or 3-MPA capped on Ag. In our experiment, the TEM images for both samples of AgNPs show the spherical shape with the range of diameter size 5-38 nm which depends on the given ratio of material concentration in the synthesis process. Our AgNP solution results with the open capping of citrate or 3-MPA then can be applied as probe sensor for plasmonic sensor application.

Integrative chemical, physiological, and metabolomics analyses reveal nanospecific phytotoxicity of metal nanoparticles

The increasing application of metal nanoparticles (NPs) via agrochemicals and sewage sludge results in non-negligible phytotoxicological risks. Herein, the potential phytotoxicity of ZnO and CuO NPs on wheat was determined using integrative chemical, physiological, and metabolomics analyses, in comparison to Zn2+ and Cu2+. It was found that ZnO or CuO NPs had a stronger inhibitory effect on wheat growth than Zn2+ or Cu2+. After exposure to ZnO or CuO NPs, wheat seedlings accumulated significantly higher levels of Zn or Cu than the corresponding Zn2+ or Cu2+ treatments, indicating the active uptake of NPs via wheat root. TEM analysis further confirmed the intake of NPs. Moreover, ZnO or CuO NPs exposure altered micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) accumulation in the tissues and decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes. The metabolomics analysis identified 312, 357, 145, and 188 significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) in wheat root exposed to ZnO NPs, CuO NPs, Zn2+, and Cu2+, respectively. Most SCMs were nano-specific to ZnO (80%) and CuO NPs (58%), suggesting greater metabolic reprogramming by NPs than metal ions. Overall, nanospecific toxicity dominated the phytotoxicity of ZnO and CuO NPs, and our results provide a molecular perspective on the phytotoxicity of metal oxide NPs.

Study of the antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide nanostructures mediated by two morphological structures of leaf extracts of Eucalyptus robusta Sm

The growing microbial resistance against antibiotics and the development of resistant strains has shifted the interests of many scientists to focus on metallic nanoparticle applications. Although several metal oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized using green route approach to measure their antimicrobial activity, there has been little or no literature on the use of Eucalyptus robusta Smith aqueous leaf extract mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). The study therefore examined the effect of two morphological nanostructures of Eucalyptus robusta Sm mediated ZnONPs and their antimicrobial and antifungal potential on some selected pathogens using disc diffusion method. The samples were characterized using Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy, Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. From the results, the two ZnO samples were agglomerated with zinc oxide nanocrystalline structure sample calcined at 400 °C (ZnO NS400) been spherical in shape while zinc oxide nanocrystalline structure sample calcined at 60 °C (ZnO NS60) was rod-like. The sample calcined at higher temperature recorded the smallest particle size of 49.16 ± 1.6 nm as compared to the low temperature calcined sample of 51.04 ± 17.5 nm. It is obvious from the results that, ZnO NS400 exhibited better antibacterial and antifungal activity than ZnO NS60. Out of the different bacterial and fungal strains, ZnO NS400 sample showed an enhanced activity against S. aureus (17.2 ± 0.1 mm) bacterial strain and C. albicans (15.7 ± 0.1 mm) fungal strain at 50 mg/ml. Since this sample showed higher antimicrobial and antifungal activity, it may be explored for its applications in some fields including medicine, agriculture, and aquaculture industry in combating some of the pathogens that has been a worry to the sector. Notwithstanding, the study also provides valuable insights for future studies aiming to explore the antimicrobial potential of other plant extracts mediated zinc oxide nanostructures.

Evaluation of internal and external factors for clinical applications of biogenic metallic nanoparticles in dentistry

The study explored the use and clinical applications of biogenic metallic nanoparticles synthesized by green methods in dentistry. It focused on evaluating the internal and external factors that influence their efficacy and application, with the aim of identifying both the opportunities and limitations of these emerging technologies in the dental field. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA procedure. 19 scientific articles published between 2018 and 2023, obtained from the PubMed and Scopus databases, were analyzed. The articles were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. In addition, a SWOT analysis was conducted with the help of five dental experts to assess the factors affecting the implementation and impact of metallic nanoparticles. The analysis revealed that the weaknesses identified in the application of metallic nanoparticles had a greater weight than the strengths, indicating the need to develop defensive strategies to address the weaknesses. Opportunities outweighed threats, suggesting that the positive aspects of nanomaterials could be amplified to mitigate negative impacts. It was concluded that continued research and optimization of green synthesis methods is crucial to improve clinical efficacy and reduce negative impacts. It was suggested that future research focus on refining these processes and further evaluating the clinical applications of these materials

Synthesis and applications of metal nanoparticles (Au, Ag)@C-graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes hybrid nanoarchitectures

In this work, we made an effort to use dopamine hydrochloride and the solid state method to anchor the gold and silver metallic nanoparticles over the graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes to improve the metal nanoparticles' interaction with the support materials. Because the hybrid nanoarchitectures of graphene-CNT provide enhanced electron transfer ability, which facilitates the catalytic activity more quickly and enhances the rate. Additionally, carbon nanotubes–graphene oxide-metal nanoparticles based hybrid catalyst was developed in a similar fashion. The formation of metallic nanoparticles in a size range of 3–15 nm is visible in the micrographs. These particles developed as nano-islands. The excess reductant formed as polydopamine acts as a stabilizer, and further, we utilise this polydoapmine into carbon by the calcination process. It results that carbonous materials will enhance the interaction between metal and support (CNT/GO). This leads to improved catalytic activity towards the reduction of 4-nitrophenol and catalytic decolorization of methylene blue at room temperature. The suggested technique for synthesizing metal nanoparticles over carbon nanostructures is simple and environmentally friendly.

Comprehensive Literature Review on Metal Nanoparticle for Enhanced Shelf Life of Mango Fruit.

The purpose of this review was to investigate the application of metal nanoparticles in fruit shelf life extension. Despite growing interest in nanoparticles and their potential applications, there are currently few effective methods for prolonging the shelf life of fruits. The study concentrated on the principles underlying the shelf life extension of metallic nanoparticles, including copper oxide, zinc oxide, silver, and titanium oxide. The biological properties of nanoparticles, especially those with antibacterial qualities, have drawn interest as possible fruit preservation solutions. Many conventional preservation methods have drawbacks, including expensive production costs, short shelf lives, undesirable residues, and the incapacity to properly keep perishable fruits in their natural environments. Techniques for extending shelf life based on nanotechnology have the potential to get around these problems. The review focused on the effective use of environmentally benign, green synthesis-produced nanoparticles to extend the fruit shelf life. The ability of these nanoparticles to successfully preserve fresh fruits was established. The results imply that fruit preservation by the use of nanoparticle synthesis techniques may be a viable strategy, offering a more effective and sustainable substitute for traditional procedures.

Trimetallic-Organic Framework-Derived Ni-Doped MnO/PC as cathodes for High-Performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Manganese-based materials are frequently employed as the cathodes of aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) due to the merits of low cost, eco-friendliness and high operating voltage. However, their inherent low conductivity and poor structural stability often lead to an insufficient rate capacity and therefore limit their application in AZIBs. Herein, we use the trimetallic-organic framework precursor to synthesize a Ni nanoparticle doped MnO composite uniformly anchored on porous carbon (Ni-MnO/PC) by a simple hydrothermal and annealing method. Electrochemical evaluation indicates that the Ni-MnO/PC composite electrode exhibits excellent zinc storage performance, mainly due to the synergistic effect of Ni nanoparticles doping and porous carbon, which enhances adsorption energy of zinc ions and also increases structure stability. The Zn || Ni-MnO/PC batteries represent not only an outstanding discharge capacity of 347.4 mAh/g at 100 mA g−1, but also an ultra-long cycle stability. Even in 3000 mA g−1, the Ni-MnO/PC electrode holds a high-capacity retention of 91.1 % after 6000 cycles. The various ex-situ tests reveal that co-intercalation of H+ and Zn2+ in Ni-MnO/PC electrode is the major mechanism for storing zinc. Finally, quasi solid-battery assembled with Ni-MnO/PC cathode can also withstand stress at different bending states. This work will promote the application of metal nanoparticles doping strategies for AZIBs and provide views for the development of durable flexible energy storage devices.