Nanocomposites For Applications Research Articles

Strategies of Nanocarrier-Based Therapeutic Drug Delivery

In recent years, nanoparticles have gained significant attention in the field of cancer treatment due to their extensive potential and wide range of uses. The research mostly focuses on the inorganic chemicals, with a specific emphasis on metals, in order to enhance the comprehension of  functional nanoparticles synthesis. This undertaking is motivated by the distinctive characteristics exhibited by these materials, which provide significant advantages for both fundamental scientific inquiry and practical implementations, notably those focused on cancer. The objective of this review is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the diverse applications of nanocomposites, with a specific focus on their utilization in medication delivery.

Investigation of TiO2 Nanoparticles Influence on Tensile Properties and Thermal Stability of Dry and Wet Luffa-Epoxy Nanocomposites.

Recently, progress has been made toward understanding the efficiency of polymer composites with natural fibres. With the hope of enhancing the characteristics of polymer composites supplemented with natural fibres in a watery environment, TiO2 nanoparticles have been used to improve their performance in the field. These nanoparticles were filled in luffa-epoxy components at 1, 3, and 5 % volume fractions. A combination of x-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to conduct the structural examinations. The nanoparticle spread was captured by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Results show that dry nanocomposite's tensile strength and modulus have increased by 74% and, 13%, 137%, and 50% compared with epoxy and 40 vol% luffa-epoxy [E/L] composites, respectively. In wet nanocomposites, maximum reduction in tensile strength and modulus were observed as 27.4% and 16.54%, respectively. The diminished water absorption and thickness swelling percentage of nanocomposites were recorded as 98% and 91.8%, respectively. The onset temperature of these nanocomposites was scattered in the range of 379-393°C, with a maximum char residue of 38%. The increase in the percentage of residue indicates the effectiveness of epoxy's flame retardant, improved thermal stability, diminished water absorption [approximately 2%], and 95% retention of wet composites' tensile properties. These results provided data support for improving the application of nanocomposites in the automobile field.

Performance Enhancement of Silicone Rubber Using Superhydrophobic Silica Aerogel with Robust Nanonetwork Structure and Outstanding Interfacial Effect.

The application of high-performance rubber nanocomposites has attracted wide attention, but its development is limited by the imbalance of interface and network effects caused by fillers. Herein, an ultrastrong polymer nanocomposite is successfully designed by introducing a superhydrophobic and mesoporous silica aerogel (HSA) as the filler to poly(methyl vinyl phenyl) siloxane (PVMQ), which increased the PVMQ elongation at break (∼690.1%) by ∼9.3 times and the strength at break (∼6.6 MPa) by ∼24.3 times. Furthermore, HSA/PVMQ with a high dynamic storage modulus (G'0) of ∼12.2 MPa and high Payne effect (ΔG') of ∼9.4 MPa is simultaneously achieved, which is equivalent to 2-3 times that of commercial fumed silica reinforced PVMQ. The superior performance is attributed to the filler-rubber interfacial interaction and the robust filler-rubber entanglement network which is observed by scanning electron microscopy. When the HSA-PVMQ entanglement network is subjected to external stress, both the HSA and bound-PVMQ chains are synergistically involved in resisting structural evolution, resulting in the maximized energy dissipation and deformation resistance through the desorption of the polymer chain and the slip/interpenetrating of the exchange hydrogen bond pairs. Hence, highly aggregated nanoporous silica aerogels may soon be widely used in the application of reinforced silicone rubber or other polymers shortly.

Biocompatible adipose extracellular matrix and reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for tissue engineering applications

Despite the immense need for effective treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI), no successful repair strategy has yet been clinically implemented. Multifunctional biomaterials, based on porcine adipose tissue-derived extracellular matrix (adECM) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), were recently shown to stimulate in vitro neural stem cell growth and differentiation. Nevertheless, their functional performance in clinically more relevant in vivo conditions remains largely unknown. Before clinical application of these adECM-rGO nanocomposites can be considered, a rigorous assessment of the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of these biomaterials is required. For instance, xenogeneic adECM scaffolds could still harbour potential immunogenicity following decellularization. In addition, the toxicity of rGO has been studied before, yet often in experimental settings that do not bear relevance to regenerative medicine. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess both the in vitro as well as in vivo safety of adECM and adECM-rGO scaffolds. First, pulmonary, renal and hepato-cytotoxicity as well as macrophage polarization studies showed that scaffolds were benign invitro. Then, a laminectomy was performed at the 10th thoracic vertebra, and scaffolds were implanted directly contacting the spinal cord. For a total duration of 6 weeks, animal welfare was not negatively affected. Histological analysis demonstrated the degradation of adECM scaffolds and subsequent tissue remodeling. Graphene-based scaffolds showed a very limited fibrous encapsulation, while rGO sheets were engulfed by foreign body giant cells. Furthermore, all scaffolds were infiltrated by macrophages, which were largely polarized towards a pro-regenerative phenotype. Lastly, organ-specific histopathology and biochemical analysis of blood did not reveal any adverse effects. In summary, both adECM and adECM-rGO implants were biocompatible upon laminectomy while establishing a pro-regenerative microenvironment, which justifies further research on their therapeutic potential for treatment of SCI.

Natural Nano-Minerals (NNMs): Conception, Classification and Their Biomedical Composites.

Natural nano-minerals (NNMs) are minerals that are derived from nature with a size of less than 100 nm in at least one dimension in size. NNMs have a number of excellent properties due to their unique nanostructure and have been applied in various fields in recent years. They are rising stars in various disciplines, such as materials, biomedicine, and chemistry, taking advantage of their huge surface area, multiple active sites, excellent adsorption capacity, large quantity, low cost, and nontoxicity, etc. To provide a more comprehensive overview of NNMs and the biomedical applications of NNMs-based nanocomposites, this review classifies NNMs into three types by dimension, lists the structure and properties of typical NNMs, and illustrates their biomedical applications. Furthermore, a novel concept of natural nanomineral medical materials (NNMMs) is proposed, focusing on the medical value of NNMs. In addition, this review attempts to address the current challenges and delineate future directions for the advancement of NNMs. With the deepening of biomedical applications, it is believed that NNMMMs will inevitably play an important role in the field of human health and contribute to its promotion.

The Effect of Composition on the Properties and Application of CuO-NiO Nanocomposites Synthesized Using a Saponin-Green/Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Method.

In this study, we explored the formation of CuO nanoparticles, NiO nanoflakes, and CuO-NiO nanocomposites using saponin extract and a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. Five green synthetic samples were prepared using aqueous saponin extract and a microwave-assisted hydrothermal procedure at 200 °C for 30 min. The samples were pristine copper oxide (100C), 75% copper oxide-25% nickel oxide (75C25N), 50% copper oxide-50% nickel oxide (50C50N), 25% copper oxide-75% nickel oxide (25C75N), and pristine nickel oxide (100N). The samples were characterized using FT-IR, XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM. The XRD results showed that copper oxide and nickel oxide formed monoclinic and cubic phases, respectively. The morphology of the samples was useful and consisted of copper oxide nanoparticles and nickel oxide nanoflakes. XPS confirmed the +2 oxidation state of both the copper and nickel ions. Moreover, the optical bandgaps of copper oxide and nickel oxide were determined to be in the range of 1.29-1.6 eV and 3.36-3.63 eV, respectively, and the magnetic property studies showed that the synthesized samples exhibited ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic properties. In addition, the catalytic activity was tested against para-nitrophenol, demonstrating that the catalyst efficiency gradually improved in the presence of CuO. The highest rate constants were obtained for the 100C and 75C25N samples, with catalytic efficiencies of 98.7% and 78.2%, respectively, after 45 min.

Polyethylene glycol diacid and jeffamine nanocomposites for high-energy supercapacitor with photoluminescence properties

Polymer dots improve ion transport and supercapacitor properties due to active functional groups on their surface. In this study, a new nanocomposite of polymer dot based on polyether amine D-230) Jeffamine (-nickel oxide (PDJA-NiO) was synthesized by a one-step method (quantum yield of 82.2 %). Also, a novel nanocomposite of polymer dot based on polyethylene glycol diacid and Jeffamine-nickel oxide (PDPJA-NiO) was synthesized in the same method and conditions to study the effect of polymers in improving the supercapacitor properties, (quantum yield of 78.84 %). The PDJA-NiO electrode and the PDPJA-NiO electrode were prepared, and the electrochemical analyses were performed. The new PDPJA-NiO specific capacitance and the new PDJA-NiO specific capacitance were obtained at about 527 F.g−1 and 355 F.g−1 at 1 A.g−1. Also, two symmetric devices were made from the PDPJA-NiO nanocomposite (PDPJA-NiO/AC//AC/PDPJA-NiO) and the PDJA-NiO nanocomposite (PDJA-NiO/AC//AC/PDJA-NiO), that showed a specific capacitance of 123 F.g−1 and 100 F.g−1 at 1 A.g−1, respectively. The PDPJA-NiO/AC//AC/PDPJA-NiO and the PDJA-NiO/AC//AC/PDJA-NiO supercapacitors exhibited maximum energy densities of 37.26 Wh kg−1 and 31.01 Wh kg−1. The illumination of white LED by both nanocomposites confirms the practical application of both nanocomposites.

A study on the optimization and functionalization of zirconia-coated multi-walled carbon nanotubes through hydrothermal process

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as revolutionary nanomaterials with exceptional properties. This study focuses on optimizing acid treatment conditions for functionalizing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and investigates the synthesis of zirconia coated MWCNTs. Acid treatment was conducted with HNO3 and H2SO4 their combinations with different molarity concentrations. Acid oxidation, particularly with nitric acid, enhances CNT solubility and reactivity. The research explores the incorporation of acid treated MWCNTs into ceramic composites, addressing challenges in dispersion and bonding. Additionally, a hydrothermal process is employed to coat MWCNTs with zirconia, contributing to the development of nanocomposites with unique properties. Characterization studies, including SEM, TEM, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy, provide insights into structural and chemical aspects. The findings contribute to advancing the application of CNT-based nanocomposites in various technological fields. The study’s methodology, involving acid treatment optimization and hydrothermal synthesis, provides a robust foundation for further advancements in the field of nanomaterials and composites. This novel approach results in ZrO2-coated MWCNTs, showcasing potential applications in catalysts, oxygen sensors, fuel cells, electronic devices and also as a reinforcing material.

Polyoxometalate-Intercalated Tremella-Like CoNi-LDH Nanocomposites for Electrocatalytic Nitrite-Ammonia Conversion.

The electrocatalytic reduction of NO2- (NO2RR) holds promise as a sustainable pathway to both promoting the development of emerging NH3 economies and allowing the closing of the NOx loop. Highly efficient electrocatalysts that could facilitate this complex six-electron transfer process are urgently desired. Herein, tremella-like CoNi-LDH intercalated by cyclic polyoxometalate (POM) anion P8W48 (P8W48/CoNi-LDH) prepared by a simple two-step hydrothermal-exfoliation assembly method is proposed as an effective electrocatalyst for NO2- to NH3 conversion. The introduction of POM with excellent redox ability tremendously increased the electrocatalytic performance of CoNi-LDH in the NO2RR process, causing P8W48/CoNi-LDH to exhibit large NH3 yield of 0.369 mmol h-1 mgcat-1 and exceptionally high Faradic efficiency of 97.0% at -1.3 V vs the Ag/AgCl reference electrode in 0.1 M phosphate buffer saline (PBS, pH = 7) containing 0.1 M NO2-. Furthermore, P8W48/CoNi-LDH demonstrated excellent durability during cyclic electrolysis. This work provides a new reference for the application of POM-based nanocomposites in the electrochemical reduction of NO2- to obtain value-added NH3.

Biomimetic Nanocomposites for Glioma Imaging and Therapy.

Glioma, the most common primary brain tumor, is highly invasive and grows rapidly. As such, the survival of glioma patients is relatively short, highlighting the vital importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of glioma. However, the blood brain barrier (BBB) and the non-targeting delivery systems of contrast agents and drugs greatly hinder the effective glioma imaging and therapy. Fortunately, in recent years, investigators have constructed various biomimetic delivery platforms utilizing the exceptional advantages of biomimetic nanocomposites, such as immune evasion, homologous targeting ability, and BBB penetrating ability, to achieve efficient and precise delivery of substances to glioma sites for improved diagnosis and treatment. In this concept, we present the application of these biomimetic nanocomposites in fluorescence imaging (FI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and multi-modal imaging, as well as in chemotherapy, phototherapy, and combined therapy for glioma. Lastly, we provide our perspectiveonthis research field.

Preparation and properties of montmorillonite incorporated natural rubber/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber blends

This article aims to evaluate and compare two types of organic surface-modified-nanoclay of octadecylamine-modified-bentonite-nanoclay (ODA-BNC) and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-octadecylamine-modified-nanomontmorillonite (APS-ODA-MMT). Each type of nanoclay is combined with silica as a bi-filler for natural rubber (NR)/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) in a 50/50 blend ratio for possible vulcanized rubber nanocomposite application. The total filler content is 50 phr while nanoclay filler content ranges from 0 to 20 phr, keeping the other ingredients ratio fixed. The prepared composites are characterized by the Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) and their mechanical and thermal properties are thoroughly investigated. The data reveal that the fillers added to the rubber can improve its surface properties according to their type and amount as confirmed by the Atomic force microscope (AFM), and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigation. The surface of rubber containing APS-ODA-MMT displayed higher height (251) and roughness surface (94.11), than those (69.8) and (45.62) respectively, containing ODA-BNC. Moreover, the acid resistance of the prepared composites is verified and indicated that increasing the nanoclay ratio (20%) enhances the acid resistance by reducing the surface distortion while keeping the surface morphology. The mechanical properties and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) measurements showed that the rubber containing ODA-BNC has higher values of stress (2.2), elongation (975), and thermal stability (470, 505, 520°C) than those (1.75), (650), and (440, 460, 470°C) respectively, containing the APS-ODA-MMT. Moreover, the durability investigation of the vulcanized rubber via the AFM found the modified composites can be used in harsh environments as a covering layer in petrochemical networks or chemical factories.

Multi-objective optimization and machine learning-based prediction of tensile properties of an armchair graphene sheet

Graphene is a widely used nanoparticle in different industries, especially in nanocomposite applications. Prediction of its properties is of great importance for engineers. Therefore, a comprehensive study is first performed in this study to investigate the effect of temperature, strain rate, number of layers, and dimensions on the tensile properties of graphene nanosheets including elastic modulus (E), yield strength (YS), and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) using molecular dynamics simulation. Then, E, YS, and UTS are simultaneously optimized via response surface methodology. To determine the simplest and the most accurate machine learning algorithm for the prediction of tensile properties, three algorithms of Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Gradient Boosted Tree (GBT) are compared and the GBT algorithm is introduced as the best one. Furthermore, the architecture of each algorithm was optimized via the Taguchi design of experiment method to enhance the prediction accuracy. The DT algorithm with a maximum depth of 8 was obtained as the most accurate one.

Rational designing of TiO2-X@Cs3Bi2X9 nanocomposite for boosted hydrogen evolution

Halide perovskites are known as compounds possessing interesting properties, including visible light-induced photoactivity, however, they suffer from instability. Herein, a novel technique for reducing the decomposition rate of halide bismuth-based perovskites Cs3Bi2X9 (X=I, Br, Cl) in the aqueous environment by combining with different types of TiO2 (anatase TiO2-I, anatase/rutile TiO2-B, and rutile TiO2-C synthesized using HI, HBr, and HCl acids, respectively) has been described. The specific type of HX has a notable impact on the crystallinity, morphology, and photocatalytic abilities of TiO2-X and they constitute a reaction environment that allows perovskites to survive the synthesis of TiO2. Studies reveal that TiO2-I is the optimal support material for immobilizing perovskite nanoparticles, owing to its extensive surface area and the synergistic effect it has with Cs3Bi2I9. Adding a small amount of Cs3Bi2I9 to iodine-doped TiO2-I improved the photocatalytic performance in the aqueous environment. As a result, 24.3, 22.5, 22.0, and 13.5-fold improvement in H2 production has been realized with decreasing amounts of Cs3Bi2I9 perovskite (10, 50, 100, and 300 mg). Upon detailed characterization and analysis of photocatalytic properties, it has been suggested that when Cs3Bi2I9 nanoparticles are dispersed within the TiO2-I structure, they can establish a close connection which allows the photogenerated electrons of TiO2-I to be extracted to Cs3Bi2I9, effectively preventing the charge recombination. This study provides a feasible possibility for the photocatalytic application of perovskite-based nanocomposites in the aqueous environment.

Palladium Metal Nanocomposites Based on PEI-Functionalized Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Quantum Dots: Synthesis, Characterization, Density Functional Theory Modeling, and Cell Cycle Arrest Effects on Human Ovarian Cancer Cells.

In this study, the synthesis, characterization, density functional theory calculations (DFT), and effect of polyethylenimine (PEI)-functionalized nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (PEI N-GQDs) and their palladium metal nanoparticles nanocomposites (PdNPs/PEI N-GQDs) on cancer cells were extensively investigated. The focus also includes investigating their cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on ovarian cancer cells, which pose a serious risk to women's health and have high death rates from delayed diagnosis, inadequate response to treatment, and decreased survival. Graphene quantum dots and their palladium nanocomposites were differentially effective against ovarian cancer cell lines. In particular, the smaller particle size and morphology of PdNPs/PEI N-GQDs nanocomposites compared with PEI N-GQDs probably enhance their activity through highly improved uptake by cells. These findings emphasize the importance of particle size in composite drugs for efficient cancer treatment. DFT results revealed that the Pd-containing nanocomposite, with a smaller highest occupied molecular orbital-lowest unoccupied molecular orbital gap, exhibited higher reactivity and anticancer effects in human ovarian cancer cell line, OVCAR-3. Significantly, the application of nanocomposites to ovarian cancer cells initiated apoptosis, offering valuable insights into the intricate interplay between nanomaterials and cancer biology.

Zinc-aluminum mixed oxide nanocomposites catalyzed KA2 coupling of ketone, amine, and an alkyne: An environmentally benign approach

Heterogeneous catalysis is of prime importance especially to produce essential fine chemicals and organic molecules. Herein, we presented the simplest synthesis and application of zinc-aluminum mixed oxide nanocomposites (ZnAl-MO NCs) as an efficient catalyst for three component one-pot KA2 coupling reactions to prepare tetrasubstituted propargylamines. The as synthesized ZnAl-MO NCs were well characterized using spectroscopic tools viz. PXRD, BET, XPS, HRTEM, ICP techniques. ZnAl-MO NCs selectively catalyze the KA2 coupling reactions between ketone, amine and an alkyne affording wide range of functional substrates with higher conversion rates and yield. The sustainability of the catalyst was also studied systematically by evaluating the green chemistry metrics such as E factor, atom economy and turn over numbers. Notably, the architectures proposed methodology not only highlights the versatility of environmentally benign novel catalyst but also displays lower leaching levels for zinc and aluminum respectively.

Ionic liquid containing high-density polyethylene supported tungstate: a novel, efficient, and highly recoverable catalyst.

Synthesis and catalytic application of polymeric-based nanocomposites are important subjects among researchers due to their high lipophilicity as well as high chemical and mechanical stability. In the present work, a novel nanocomposite material involving ionic liquid and high-density polyethylene supported tungstate (PE/IL-WO4 =) is synthesized, characterized and its catalytic application is investigated. The coacervation method was used to incorporate 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium bromide ([MOIm] [Br]) ionic liquid in high-density polyethylene, resulting in a PE/IL composite. Subsequently, tungstate was anchored on PE/IL to give PE/IL-WO4 = catalyst. The PXRD, FT-IR, EDX, TGA, and SEM analyses were used to characterize the PE/IL-WO4 = composite. This material demonstrated high catalytic efficiency in the synthesis of bioactive tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen-11-ones under green conditions. The recoverability and leching tests were performed to investigate the stability and durability of the designed PE/IL-WO4 = catalyst under applied conditions.

Recycled gold-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for efficient adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of crystal violet

In this study, gold-reduced graphene oxide (Au@rGO) nanocomposite has been synthesized by repurposing electronic waste and dry batteries. This innovative approach involved utilizing the graphite rod from dry batteries to produce reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which was subsequently modified through the incorporation of gold nanoparticles obtained from recycled electronic waste. This methodology marks a significant breakthrough in electronic waste recycling, presenting a cost-effective and sustainable means of creating novel nanocomposites for applications in photocatalysis and adsorption, particularly in the removal of crystal violet (CV) from aqueous media. The synthesized Au@rGO nanocomposite was characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersed X-ray, and N2 adsorption/desorption. Parameters that affect the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of CV dye have been studied in detail. The optimal conditions for CV adsorption and photocatalytic degradation were pH of 10, equilibrium time of 30 min, CV concentration of 10 mg/L and adsorbent dosage of 40 mg. Furthermore, the isotherm and kinetics of CV removal were also studied. The removal of CV dye using adsorption and photocatalytic degradation techniques reached 95% and 99%, respectively. Consequently, the results showed that photocatalytic degradation of CV dye onto the mesoporous Au@rGO nanocomposite is more proper way than the adsorption technique for removing the CV dye from aqueous media. The designed photocatalyst has high efficiency and it can be reused and activated several times so it can be used in real water treatment applications.

The Use of Magnetic Porous Carbon Nanocomposites for the Elimination of Organic Pollutants from Wastewater

One of the most significant challenges the world is currently facing is wastewater treatment. A substantial volume of effluents from diverse sources releases numerous pollutants into the water. Among these contaminants, organic pollutants are particularly concerning due to the associated risk of being released into the environment, garnering significant attention. Rapid advancements in agriculture and industry on a global scale generate vast volumes of hazardous organic compounds, which eventually find their way into natural systems. Recently, the release of industrial wastewater has been increasing, due to the progress of numerous businesses. This poses a danger to humans and the environment, leading to environmental contamination. The application of carbon nanocomposites in applied nanotechnology has recently expanded due to their large surface area, substantial pore volume, low preparation cost, and environmental resilience. Expanding the use of nanomaterials in water treatment is essential, as magnetic carbon nanocomposites consistently demonstrate an efficient elimination of pollutants from water solutions. In the current study, we have highlighted the application of magnetic porous carbon nanocomposites in removing organic pollutants from wastewater.

Synthesis and Characterization of PEGylated Poly(Glycerol Azelaic Acid) and Their Nanocomposites for Application in Tissue Engineering

Synthesis and Characterization of PEGylated Poly(Glycerol Azelaic Acid) and Their Nanocomposites for Application in Tissue Engineering

Pectin wrapped halloysite nanotube reinforced Polycaprolactone films for potential wound healing application

The current research work focuses on preparing the polycaprolactone (PCL) based nanocomposite films embedded with surface modified Halloysite Nanotube (HNT). The avenue of the study is to unravel the applicability of polymer nanocomposites for wound healing. The flexible property of HNT was taken as the major force to accomplish the addition of biopolymer pectin onto its surface. Functionalization of HNT with pectin has certainly enhanced its binding nature with the polymer. The PCL nanocomposite films were characterized by several promising techniques such as FTIR, XRD, DSC-TGA, FESEM, TEM, AFM, and mechanical properties were too examined along. When compared to the plane PCL film, the nanocomposite films manifested favorable results in terms of mechanical and chemical properties. Additionally, biometric studies such as in-vitro swelling, enzymatic degradation, and hemolysis performed on the films gave extremely good results. The haemolytic percentage recorded for the films exhibited a steady decrease with increasing amount of nanofillers. The MTT assay showed cell proliferation and its increase as the embedded HNT is more in the matrix. Wound closure study performed on NIH3T3 cell line with 1, 3 and 5wt% of films has given a strong proof for the involvement of polymer and HNT in the healing procedure.