Dispersion Of Nanomaterials Research Articles

Two-Part Surfactant-Assisted Exfoliation of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets to Obtain Highly Stable Two-Dimensional Nanomaterial Dispersions

Two-Part Surfactant-Assisted Exfoliation of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets to Obtain Highly Stable Two-Dimensional Nanomaterial Dispersions

Waste Combustion Releases Anthropogenic Nanomaterials in Indigenous Arctic Communities.

Arctic autochthonous communities and the environment face unprecedented challenges due to climate change and anthropogenic activities. One less-explored aspect of these challenges is the release and distribution of anthropogenic nanomaterials in autochthonous communities. This study pioneers a comprehensive investigation into the nature and dispersion of anthropogenic nanomaterials within Arctic Autochthonous communities, originating from their traditional waste-burning practices. Employing advanced nanoanalytical tools, we unraveled the nature and prevalence of nanomaterials, including metal oxides (TiO2, PbO), alloys (SnPb, SbPb, SnAg, SnCu, SnZn), chromated copper arsenate-related nanomaterials (CuCrO2, CuCr2O4), and nanoplastics (polystyrene and polypropylene) in snow and sediment near waste burning sites. This groundbreaking study illuminates the unintended consequences of waste burning in remote Arctic areas, stressing the urgent need for interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and sustainable waste management. These measures are crucial to safeguard the fragile Arctic ecosystem and the health of autochthonous communities.

Powering the Future Green Buildings: Multifunctional Ultraviolet-Shielding Transparent Wood.

Indoor UV damage is a serious problem that is often ignored. Common glasses cannot filter UV rays well and have fragility and environmental issues. UV-shielding transparent wood (TW) holds promise, yet striking the right balance between blocking UV rays and allowing sufficient visible-light transmission poses a challenge. The pronounced capillary force, fueled by persistent moisture and extractives in wood, alongside the existence of multiphase interfaces, collectively hinder the uniform penetration of polymers and the effective dispersion of nanomaterials within the wood skeleton. Here, we incorporate high-pressure supercritical CO2 fluid-assisted impregnation (HSCFI) into fabricating UV-shielding TW. The supercritical CO2 pretreatment efficiently eliminates moisture and refines wood structure by extracting polar substances, resulting in a prominent 52.4% increase in average water permeability. Subsequently, this HSCFI method facilitates the infiltration of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and Ce-ZnO nanorods (NRDs) into the refined anhydrous wood, leveraging the excellent solvency of supercritical CO2 for MMA. The impregnation rate of PMMA undergoes a substantial increase from 34.5 to 59.1%. With the robust UV-blocking capability of Ce-ZnO NRDs, thanks to dual-valence Ce doping widening the ZnO energy gap via the Burstein-Moss effect and their unique photoactive microstructure featuring a solid prism with a sharp hexahedral pyramidal tip, along with intrinsic physical scattering/reflection actions, Ce-ZnO NRDs@TW achieves an impressive 99.6% UVA radiation blockage (the highest for TW) and maintains high visible-light transmission (83.2%). Furthermore, Ce-ZnO NRDs@TW presents favorable energy-saving, sound absorption, and antifungal abilities, making it a promising candidate for future green buildings.

Investigating mechanical properties and energy absorption of elastomeric polymer nanocomposites containing cellulose nanofibers in tensile, quasi-static compression, and high strain rate tests

In this study, mechanical properties and energy absorption of elastomeric nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibers are investigated from tensile, Quasi-static Compression (QSC), and Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) tests. For this purpose, the design and preparation of rubber nanocomposites with different loadings of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were carried out, and the optimal cure temperature (T90) of the rubber compound containing cellulose nanofibers was determined from the rheometer test. In the continuation of this study, the effects of adding cellulose nanofibers on the tensile strength, elongation to break, and energy absorption of the proposed Nano-composites were investigated. The results showed that the nanocomposite containing 6 phr increases the ultimate strength and elastic modulus of 300% by 33.5% and 22.7%, respectively, compared to the control rubber (0 phr). Similarly, these numbers are about 10 and 65% for loading 12 phr cellulose nanofibers. From the results of the quasi-static compression test for different amounts of cellulose nanofibers at a strain rate of 50%, it was found that the lowest and highest compressive stress due to the resistance of elastomeric nanocomposites is related to the control sample (0 phr) and the 12 phr sample, respectively. Also, from high strain rate tests of Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar, it was found that the fracture mechanism of flexible composites containing cellulose nanofibers changes in response to a high-speed impact, and the samples respond to high-pressure impact with brittle fractures. It was also found that rubber nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibers are very sensitive to strain rates. As the strain rate increases, the energy absorption of rubber nanocomposites increases. The optimal loading (6 phr) of cellulose nanofibers in rubber compounds makes them suitable for energy absorption applications. Cellulosic nanofibers provide acceptable dispersion of nanomaterials through good interaction with natural rubber and lignin-carbon fillers. Therefore, through the physical interweaving of fillers with polymer chains, CNF provide better binding of polymer chains to improve properties.

Understanding interfacial dynamics: Hydrostatic pressure-induced sono-dispersion of carbon nanotubes

Homogeneously dispersing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is crucial for minimizing agglomeration issues commonly encountered in commercially available CNTs samples, thereby enhancing their unique mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical properties. In this study, we propose an alternative hydrostatic pressure-driven dispersion approach to effectively disperse CNTs and assess the impact of hydrostatic pressure on CNTs dispersion in deionized water (DIW). Our results demonstrate that ultrasonic treatment under a hydrostatic pressure of 0.1 MPa enables the achievement of a high concentration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at approximately 4.23 mg/ml, significantly surpassing concentrations reported in recent studies (∼1.9 mg/ml). Thin buckypaper generated from these solutions exhibit exceptional electrical conductivity (∼4938 S/m). Numerical modeling demonstrates that the shock wave induced by bubble implosion is significantly enhanced, reaching 80 MPa under hydrostatic pressure, markedly higher than atmospheric pressure in previous studies (∼1.6 MPa). This enhancement leads to a twofold improvement in dispersion efficiency. For the first time, we reveal the underlying mechanism of nanobubbles (NBs) in dispersion stability. Our experimental results show a significant increase in the generation of NBs resulting from ultrasonic bubble collapse under hydrostatic pressure. This phenomenon plays a crucial role in the long-term stabilization of dispersion, which we observed over several months. The presence of negatively charged hydroxyl groups on the interface of the NBs is identified as a key factor in this stabilization process. The hydrostatic pressure-driven dispersion approach presented is essential for the large-scale dispersion of CNTs and other nanomaterials.

Advancements in Nanomaterial Dispersion and Stability and Thermophysical Properties of Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials for Biomedical Applications.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are materials that exhibit thermal response characteristics, allowing them to be utilized in the biological field for precise and controllable temperature regulation. Due to considerations of biosafety and the spatial limitations within human tissue, the amount of PCMs used in medical applications is relatively small. Therefore, researchers often augment PCMs with various materials to enhance their performance and increase their practical value. The dispersion of nanoparticles to modify the thermophysical properties of PCMs has emerged as a mature concept. This paper aims to elucidate the role of nanomaterials in addressing deficiencies and enhancing the performance of PCMs. Specifically, it discusses the dispersion methods and stabilization mechanisms of nanoparticles within PCMs, as well as their effects on thermophysical properties such as thermal conductivity, latent heat, and specific heat capacity. Furthermore, it explores how various nano-additives contribute to improved thermal conductivity and the mechanisms underlying enhanced latent heat and specific heat. Additionally, the potential applications of PCMs in biomedical fields are proposed. Finally, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis and offers suggestions for future research to maximize the utilization of nanomaterials in enhancing the thermophysical properties of PCMs for biomedical applications.

Aspects of double slip on multiphase inclined channel flow of Casson and Cu-nanofluid

The key aspect of this study is to inspect the entropy generation (EG) of heat and momentum transport within two immiscible Casson and nanofluid (NF) with mass diffusion of copper nanomaterials in an inclined channel (IC) with thermal and velocity slips. The IC is divided into two regions. Region-I contains the Casson fluid (CF) whereas Region II is occupied with copper-water NF. Moreover, the effects of Lorentz force are also taken in region II having copper-water NF. The mathematical model is solved by employing the perturbation method. The behavior of different aspects, i.e., mass diffusion of copper nanomaterials, Lorentz force, velocity and thermal slips on EG, and transport of mass and heat are presented in graphs and tabular forms. Furthermore, the numerical outcomes of friction at the walls and the rate of heat transport are presented in tabular form. Our results show that the EG and the rate of EG decline when the dispersion of nanomaterials is increased. The velocity and temperature decline when Lorentz force is increased in Region II. Furthermore, temperature augments with the rise in CF parameter and thermal slip parameters whereas velocity also increases with the rise in velocity slip parameters. So, the thermal performance can be enhanced in an IC by using blood fluid in one phase and thermal slips at the walls.

Glycine-Ti3C2Tx Hybrid Material Improves the Electrochemical Corrosion Resistance of a Water-Borne Epoxy Coating.

Improving the dispersibility and compatibility of nanomaterials in water-borne epoxy resins is an important means to improve the protection ability and corrosion resistance of coatings. In this study, glycine-functionalized Ti3C2Tx (GT) was used to prepare an epoxy composite coating. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction showed that glycine was successfully modified. The scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy results showed that the aggregation of Ti3C2Tx was alleviated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy test results show that, after 60 days of immersion, GT coating still shows the best protection performance, and the composite coating |Z|f = 0.01 Hz is 3 orders of magnitude higher than that of the pure epoxy coating. This is mainly because, after adding glycine, the -COOH group on the surface of glycine binds to the -OH group on the surface of Ti3C2Tx, improving the aggregation of Ti3C2Tx itself. At the same time, the -NH group of glycine can also participate in the curing reaction of epoxy resin to strengthen the bonding strength between the coating and the metal. The good dispersion of GT in epoxy resin makes it fill the pores and holes left by epoxy resin curing and strengthen the corrosion resistance. The easy availability and green properties of glycine provide a simple and environmentally friendly method for the modification of Ti3C2Tx.

Nanotechnology in the Fabrication of Advanced Paints and Coatings: Dispersion and Stabilization Mechanisms for Enhanced Performance

AbstractThis review comprehensively analyzes the challenge of dispersing and stabilizing of various common nanomaterials (NMs), including TiO₂, SiO₂, Ag, ZnO, graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and some others, in paints and coatings. It delves into the critical factors influencing dispersion, such as nanoparticle size, shape, concentration, and their distribution within the coating matrix.The review encompasses all stages of dispersion methods, including wetting, separation techniques, and stabilization. Regarding stabilization, both chemical and physical stabilization methods are discussed, along with their mechanisms, involving surface modification or functionalization of NMs, particularly tailored for aqueous and solvent‐based coatings and common resins (Acrylic, Urethane, Epoxy, Alkyd, etc.). Furthermore, common blending methods to fabricate uniform paints, coatings, and nanocomposites (NCPs) are examined. By providing a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms governing NM dispersion and stabilization, this review facilitates the selection of appropriate surface modifications based on the specific resins or solvents, thereby enabling the fabrication of high‐performance paints and coatings. In summary, this review elucidates the essence of addressing the challenges associated with NM dispersion and stabilization, outlines methodologies employed, discusses findings regarding their effects on coating properties, and recommends tailored approaches for fabricating high‐performance paints and coatings.

2D Perovskite Nanosheet‐Driven Polymeric Nanocomposites as Gate Dielectrics for Flexible Negative‐Capacitance Applications

AbstractDesigning composite gate dielectrics tailored by incorporating inorganic perovskite nanofillers into a polymer matrix to develop flexible low‐voltage transistors can be challenging because homogeneous dispersion of nanomaterials in the matrix is difficult to achieve; thus, degradation of the electrically insulating properties of nanocomposite layers is often observed. In this study, nanocomposite dielectrics are presented that consist of 2D Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets (BTO NSs) for the first time. Perovskite BTO is introduced using the Langmuir–Blodgett method to construct a precise and pinhole‐free interface for the homogeneous assembly of 2D nanosheets. Its high k value and ferroelectric properties, which arise from the perovskite structure, can be harnessed to achieve attractive polarization and remarkable electronic properties. The 2D BTO NSs can also be utilized as phase crystallization fillers to enhance the ferroelectric properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Additionally, the multilayer PVDF/perovskite nanosheet hybrid dielectric, which reaches an unprecedentedly high dielectric constant of 22.4, exhibits effective dielectric relaxation related to the interfacial induced ferroelectric polarization and decisive negative‐capacitance response.

Eutectic phase change composites with MXene nanoparticles for enhanced photothermal absorption and conversion capacity

Phase change composite materials with uniform nanomaterial dispersion are potential solutions for improving thermophysical properties and enhancing latent heat capacity applicable in thermal management. In this study, various transitional carbide-based MXene samples were synthesised via acid etching to augment the heat transfer capacity and efficiency of the solar thermal energy storage (TES). These samples were then uniformly dispersed in a eutectic mixture (1:1) of paraffin wax (PW) and polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000), resulting in the formation of a MePCM composite. The controllable porous structure and hydrogen interactions with the external layer of MXene and long-chain PCM benefitted in the well impregnation of PCM and compatibility impregnated into the composite. An exceptionally higher mass fraction of 1 wt % Ti3C2Tx MXene-based phase change composite unveiled a higher phase change enthalpy of 138.66 J/g in the melting phase and 139.54 J/g in the solidification phase with 89.82 % energy storage efficiency. In contrast to pure eutectic PCM (0.2593 W/mK), the thermal conductivity of MePCM composite is relatively higher and provides a thermal conductivity of 0.9209 W/mK for Ti3C2Tx MXene-based composite. The enhancement of thermal conductivity is ascribed to the increased heat conduction pathway facilitated by the MXene arrangement. The utilisation of spatially constrained eutectic phase change material (PCM) assembly resulted in the development of MePCM, which exhibited enhanced thermal conductivity, chemical and physical stability, and thermal consistency across 500 melting-solidification cycles. Benefitting from the thermal conduction path, the MePCM exhibits an excellent photothermal conversion efficiency of 98.53 %. The thermal responsive tests of Ti3C2Tx and V2CTx MXene composite samples provide better thermal response than eutectic PCM without thermal reduction. With a higher thermal storage capacity and higher heat transfer property, thermally reliable MePCM composites exhibited tremendous potential for photothermal applications.

Highly dispersed nanomaterials in polymer matrix via aerosol-jet-based multi-material 3D printing

Polymer-based nanocomposites emerged in the 1960s as a groundbreaking approach to advanced materials. By incorporating robust, durable, and multifunctional nanomaterials into a polymer matrix, the performance of nanocomposites has significantly surpassed that of the base polymers. However, over the past six decades, the challenges of achieving uniform nanomaterial dispersion and the resulting non-uniform properties have impeded further progress in this field. Here, we present a polymer-based nanocomposite with highly dispersed nanomaterials, achieved through aerosol-jet-based multi-material three-dimensional (AM3D) printing. This method allows precise programming of the nanocomposite's composition, structure, and dispersity. Numerical simulations in the design of AM3D printing system facilitate the avoidance of interfacial compatibility issue among heterogeneous aerosols, enabling distributed printing without nanomaterial agglomeration. As a result of this high level of dispersion and distribution, the 3D structured nanocomposite exhibits a uniform dielectric constant and low dielectric loss across the entire printed area. This work establishes an engineering framework for defect-free nanocomposites and significantly expands the range of polymer-based multi-material nanocomposite that can be designed and manufactured with complex architectures. One-Sentence SummaryAerosol-jet-based multi-material 3D printing enables highly dispersed nanomaterials in the polymer-based nanocomposite.

One-Pot Synthesis of Alkyl Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites as the Lubrication Additive Enabling Enhanced Tribological Performance.

Recently, aiming for the enhanced dispersibility of graphene-based nanomaterials in lubricating oil matrices to serve as highly efficient lubricant additives, numerous modification approaches have been extensively studied. However, these previous modification routes usually involve a tedious multistep modification process or multitudinous toxic reagents, restricting their extensive practical application. In this work, novel graphene oxide (GO) nanoadditives (RGO-g-BO) featuring excellent durable dispersion capability and remarkable tribological performance were successfully prepared via an environmentally friendly one-step approach consisting of surface grafting of long-chain bromooctadecane (BO) and in situ chemical reduction. Benefiting from the greatly improved lipophilicity (resulting from the introduction of hydrophobic long-chain alkane groups and chemical reduction), along with the miniaturization effect, RGO-g-BO exhibits superior long-term dispersion stability in the finished oil. Moreover, the tribological properties results demonstrated that the finished oil filled with RGO-g-BO nanolubricants achieved an outstanding friction-reducing and antiwear performance. Particularly, under the optimum content of RGO-g-BO (as low as 0.005 wt%), the friction coefficient as well as the wear volume of the composite finished oil were greatly reduced by 13% and 53%, respectively, as compared with nascent finished oil. Therefore, in view of the advantages of low-cost, one-step facile synthesis, desirable dispersion capability, and remarkable tribological performance, RGO-g-BO holds great prospects as a highly efficient lubrication additive in the tribology field.

Experimental evaluation of a diesel engine using amide-functionalized carbon nanotubes as additives in commercial diesel and palm-oil biodiesel

Nanomaterials used as additives to diesel, biodiesel, and its blends have shown promising results in improving thermal efficiency and reducing pollutant emissions in compression ignition engines. However, the stability of dispersions has been noted in the literature as a primary challenge to the effective use of nanomaterials as fuel additives. Between nanomaterials used as additives to fuels are carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These carbonaceous materials have shown positive and negative results concerning engine performance and emissions, and the differences could be associated with the dispersion stability of the nanomaterials in the fuel. Therefore, there is still much uncertainty regarding the relationship between the stability of nanomaterial dispersion and the impact of nanofuels on engine performance. Specifically, the current literature lacks sufficient information regarding the impact of incorporating amide-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNT) on the stability of diesel-biodiesel blends and their influence on particulate matter emissions in ICE. In this study CNT and amide-functionalized CNT were dispersed in Colombian commercial diesel (10 % vol. of palm oil biodiesel) and palm oil biodiesel, and its stability was evaluated. The most stable blends were used in a stationary Ignition Compression Engine (ICE) to evaluate the impact of the nanomaterials on thermal efficiency and pollutant emissions. Results show that it was not possible to disperse CNT in Colombian commercial diesel (10 % vol. of palm oil biodiesel and 90 % vol. of petroleum diesel) due to its high rate of agglomeration and sedimentation. In contrast, the opposite behavior was shown using biodiesel as a base fuel. An amide functionalization of the CNT process was carried out to generate a repulsion of CNT and improve its stability in commercial diesel fuel. Amide-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTF) were obtained using pristine CNT and Oleylamine as nitrogen functional group precursors. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy confirmed the amide functional groups on the CNT surface, and a loss weight of 14 % was identified in the temperature range of 150–550 °C, indicating a high grade of functionalization. Functionalized and non-functionalized CNT were dispersed in Colombian commercial diesel and palm oil biodiesel using a concentration of 100 mg/L to evaluate the dispersion's colloidal stability. This stability was examined for three days by visual inspection and variation of the hydrodynamic diameter using dynamic light scattering. The most stable dispersions were prepared at two concentrations (50 and 100 mg/L) and used as fuels in a stationary compression ignition engine. Colloidal stability was enhanced when CNTF were dispersed in diesel compared to the unstable, pristine CNT dispersion. However, in biodiesel, the dispersion behavior of the CNT and CNTF was similar. Compared to diesel, the diesel-CNTF dispersion did not considerably improve the engine´s thermal performance at 6 kW, and only a minor gain was observed at 12 kW at a concentration of 100 mg/L. However, at 6 kW, they reduced particulate matter emissions by up to 39.8 %. In the case of biodiesel, utilizing both functionalized and non-functionalized carbon nanotubes as additives, the thermal efficiency was increased, and CO emissions decreased.

Research on the influence of dispersed carbon nanomaterials with different water reducing agent in cementitious mortar

In this paper, the dispersion of Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) in an electrolytic solution containing cations such as Ca2+, Al3+, Na+, and Mg2+ with different types of superplasticizers (Sika, Master Ease 3502, Prime DC, and Prime Flow) have been investigated. Further, the stabilized CNMs along with different superplasticizers (Sps) incorporated into the cementitious mortar and studied their mechanical strength. The influence of Sps on the stability of CNMs in an aqueous medium has been monitored by UV-Visible spectroscopy. The study concludes that Sika Sp was the best dispersant for the CNMs dispersion in an aqueous medium. The de-stability of the CNMs has followed this trend of the agglomerations in the electrolytic solution as Al3+>Ca2+>Mg2+>Na+. The Sika Sp has great dispersant properties as well as provides a homogeneous distribution of CNMs in a cementitious matrix which was supported by FE-SEM analysis. The addition of SIKA@PPC-GO (GO about 0.0015% by weight of cement) and SIKA@PPC-FCNTs (FCNTs about 0.0015% by weight of cement) results in enhancement of cement 11.67%, 8.73% for compressive and 26.35, 20.61% for tensile strength respectively, at the curing ages of 90 days. This investigation may provide advanced knowledge to predict the stability of CNMs in superplasticizer-based solutions.

Optical sensitivity of mono and hybrid nanomaterials dispersed PEG-based semiconducting nanofluids with high viscosity and dielectric permittivity

ABSTRACT Semiconducting nanofluids (SNFs), based on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG200) fluid with the dispersion of 0.01 wt% mono (ZnO, TiO2, and OMMT) and 0.01+ 0.01 wt% hybrid (ZnO+OMMT, ZnO+TiO2, and TiO2+OMMT) nanomaterials, are prepared through mixing and then ultrasonic cavitation homogenised process. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorbance spectra of these SNFs are recorded in the 200–800 nm range and analysed for their photosensitivity and UV shielding performance and also for nanomaterials tunable dual band gaps ranging from 3 to 5 eV. The rheological investigations on these samples, at 303.15 K, validate Newtonian nanofluids of high dynamic viscosity (η ≈ 32 mP.s). Static dielectric permittivity (εs ≈ 22) and electrical conductivity (σdc ≈ 8 μS/cm) of these SNFs at 303.15 K are found marginally affected by the dispersed mono and hybrid nanomaterials. Comparative experimental results presented here in on a variety of SNFs provide a guideline for their uses in developing soft condensed matter based innovative devices.

Evaluation procedure for damage detection by a self-sensing cement composite

Health and safety are relevant in transportation infrastructures. Most health evaluations are performed by spot measurements using conventional transducers. This study aims to explore a self-sensing composite that can be integrated into a structural layer of a pavement or rail track to continuously evaluate the full layer performance in critical zones and anticipate damage occurrence. For this purpose, a 10 % cement-stabilized standard sand used in conventional structural layers was transformed into a self-sensing composite by synergistic incorporation of 3 % and 4 % multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). In addition, Pluronic F-127 and tributyl phosphate 97 % (TBP) were used for better dispersion of carbon nanomaterials in the mixture, and these materials were compacted at maximum density and optimum moisture conditions. Through a detailed laboratory investigation, including piezoresistivity measurements, digital image correlation (DIC), and microstructure analysis through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), it was possible to propose a novel method to detect the propagation of damage under monotonic loading based on changing the slope of normalized electrical resistance against time. This was supported by a theoretical background able to explain that the emergence and propagation of damage result in increasing electrical resistance and hence fractional changes in resistance (FCR).

Tailoring morphology for improved dispersibility of hydrophilic silica nanoparticles to fabricate thin-film nanocomposite membranes

Improving the dispersibility of nanomaterials is a promising approach to enhance the performance of thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes. In this study, hydrophilic nonporous, mesoporous, and dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (NSNs, MSNs, and DMSNs) with a uniform particle size were utilized as aqueous phase additives to prepare TFN membranes through in-situ polymerization. The electrostatic adsorption of nanoparticles increased the concentration of amine monomers on the surface of the polysulfone (PSF) substrate. In collaboration with the steric hindrance effect, nanoparticles restricted the diffusion of piperazine (PIP) into the organic phase to polymerize with the acyl chloride monomers. Compared to TFC-0, the TFN membranes exhibited a rougher surface with increased negative charge and had more channels that facilitated the transportation of water molecules. Among the nanoparticles, DMSNs exhibited excellent dispersibility, ensuring their uniform distribution within the polyamide (PA) matrix. Furthermore, DMSNs possessed an open central-radial pore structure, offering more efficient channels for water molecules to cross the membrane. Therefore, a highly crosslinked, defect-free, and hydrophilic PA layer of TFN-DMSNs was achieved. In the performance characterization, TFN-DMSNs demonstrated a high water/salt permselectivity (A/B) of up to 32.25 bar−1, and exhibited good resistance to acidic/alkaline environments as well as foulants during the operation. This study proposes a novel approach to prepare advanced TFN membranes by optimizing the morphological structure of nanoparticles.

Assessing thermophysical properties of Nanostructured Cellulose Nano Crystal (CNC) and Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNP) Additives in Palm Oil-Based Heat Transfer Fluid

This study explores the examination of the thermophysical characteristics of eco-friendly CNC-Palm oil, GNP-Palm oil and CNC/GNP-palm oil mono and hybrid nanofluids. The stability assessment involves a comprehensive analysis, incorporating visual observations and thermal conductivity assessments. Notably, it was observed that an elevated proportion of hybrid mixture contributed to the enhanced stability of the nanosuspension, ensuring the uniform dispersion of nanomaterials within the base liquid for an extended period. The results indicate that hybrid nanofluids containing CNC/GNP and formulated with palm oil exhibit substantial stability. A comprehensive visual examination over an impressive 30-day duration reveals minimal accumulation, underscoring the enduring stability of these nanofluids. The study also examines crucial thermal and physical properties, including thermal conductivity and viscosity about temperature. The most significant enhancement was witnessed in thermal conductivity, achieving a noteworthy 100% increase in the 0.1w/v% concentrated CNC/GNP/Palm Oil hybrid nanofluid at 70°C, demonstrating a significant improvement compared to the base fluid. Furthermore, there are noticeable increments in viscosity, albeit with a more modest enhancement compared to thermal conductivity. These outcomes suggest a direct relationship between the increased concentrations can improve stability and thermal conductivity. This study contributes valuable insights into utilizing CNC/GNP in nanofluid applications, with implications for fields requiring enhanced thermal performance and fluid stability.

The Photothermal Conversion and UV Resistance of Silk Fabrics Being Achieved through Surface Modification with C@SiO2 Nanoparticles.

With the improvement in people's living standards, the development and application of smart textiles are receiving increasing attention. In this study, a carbon nanosurface was successfully coated with a SiO2 layer to form C@SiO2 nanomaterials, which improved the dispersion of carbon nanomaterials in an aqueous solution and enhanced the absorption of light by the carbon nanoparticles. C@SiO2 nanoparticles were coupled on the surface of silk fabric with the silane coupling agent KH570 to form C@SiO2 nanosilk fabric. The silk fabric that was subjected to such surface modification was endowed with a special photothermal function. The results obtained with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed that C@SiO2 nanoparticles were successfully modified on the surface of the silk fabric. In addition, under the irradiation of near-infrared light with a power of 20 W and a wavelength of 808 nm, the C@SiO2 nanosilk fabric experienced rapid warming from 23 °C to 60 °C within 30 s. After subjecting the functional fabric to hundreds of photothermal experiments and multiple washes, the photothermal efficiency remained largely unchanged and proved to be durable and stable. In addition, the thermogravimetric (TG) analysis results showed that the C@SiO2 nanoparticles contributed to the thermal stability of the silk fabric. The UV transmittance results indicated that C@SiO2 nanofabric is UV-resistant. The silk modification method developed in this study is low-cost, efficient, and environmentally friendly. It has some prospects for future applications in the textile industry.