Multifunctional Capabilities Research Articles

Bioinspired Superhydrophobic Cellular Origami Exhibiting Improved and Multifunctional Floatability

AbstractInterfacial floater possessing an open surface diversifies the functions of current systems in the field of solar evaporation, micro‐detector, multiphase catalysis, etc. However, most of the current floaters still face challenges such as the anti‐submersion, orientation adjusting, and multifunctional capabilities. Drawing inspiration from water striders and diving bell spiders, here a superhydrophobic cellular origami (SCO) is proposed with reliable stability, submerge resistance, switchable floatability, and multifunctional integration. The remarkable floating ability is achieved through the air storage ability of superhydrophobic air cells. SCO floats stably on the water surface and has a maximum load capacity that is 48% higher than the superhydrophobic sheet. Besides, SCO can resurface rapidly after complete submersion, even using titanium metal as substrate. To further enhance the universality of SCO, the Janus SCO with unbalanced structure can float with a specific orientation facing up and the origami structure is optimized to be switchable with hinge structure for adjustable buoyancy. To prove the concept in 3D structure, a cylindrical SCO is presented for cable locating on the water surface. This study presents an achievable strategy to extend superhydrophobic surfaces into anti‐sinking floaters, offering valuable insights into the development of multifunctional interface carriers.

Multifunctional Ultrathin Recycled PET‐Based Membrane for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding, Antibacterial and Thermal Management

AbstractWith the advent of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), there is a high demand for lightweight and flexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding membranes with multifunctional capabilities. However, the rapid advancement of technology has led to environmental deterioration, emphasizing the significance of eco‐friendly and sustainable materials for EMI shielding. In this study, a novel environment‐friendly EMI shielding membrane with electric thermotherapy function and antibacterial properties is developed. The membrane substrate utilizes recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) and is sequentially coated with synthesized FeCo@C nanoparticles (NPs) and silver nanowires (Ag NWs). The membrane is then dip‐coated with PDMS to modify the surface superhydrophobicity. Experimental results affirm that the developed environment‐friendly EMI shielding membrane possesses exceptional shielding efficiency (68 dB) and can be effectively utilized for safe and low‐voltage thermotherapy (137 °C by 2 V) while exhibiting antibacterial properties.

Theoretical Demonstration of Improved Performance in Multi-Channel Photonic RF Signals Based on Optical Injection Locking of Optical Comb and Array Lasers

Multi-channel radio frequency (RF) signal generation, facilitated by photonic technology, offers significant potential for generating coherent signals with a high frequency and low phase noise, providing multifunctional capabilities across diverse platforms, including RF and photonic systems. Traditional methods for multi-channel photonic RF signal generation typically entail the integration of diverse optical components, such as filters and amplifiers. However, this integration often results in compromises related to power efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and implementation simplicity. To address these challenges, we propose a novel method for generating multi-channel photonic RF signals based on optical injection locking technology. This approach eliminates the necessity for traditional optical components, leading to a substantial enhancement in the performance of photonic RF signals. We present the design of an optical injection locking-based multi-channel photonic RF signal generation schematic and theoretically evaluate its Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and eye pattern performance for data modulation using the Lumerical INTERCONNECT simulator. Our results reveal a significant 1.3-dB and 3.6-dB enhancement in SNR for 30-GHz and 60-GHz signals, respectively. Furthermore, we observed an improved communication performance, as evidenced by enhanced eye patterns in 3-Gbps data transmission compared to passive photonic RF signal generation methods.

Bistable switch molecule DPACdCl4 showing four physical channels and high phase transition temperature

Multiple switchable physical channels within one material or device, encompassing optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical pathways, can enable multifunctionality in mechanical-thermal-opto-electronic applications. Achieving integrated encryption and enhanced performance in storage and sensing presents a formidable challenge in the synthesis and functionality of new materials. In an effort to overcome the complexities associated with these multiple physical functions, this study investigates the large-size crystal of DPACdCl4 (DPA=diisopropylammonium), revealing significant features in rare multi-channel switches. This compound demonstrates the ability to switch between "OFF/0" and "ON/1" states in the mechanical-thermal-opto-electronic channels. Consequently, DPACdCl4 possesses four switchable physical channels, characterized by a higher phase transition temperature of 440.7 K and a competitive piezoelectric coefficient of 46 pC/N. Furthermore, solid-state NMR analysis indicates that thermally activated molecular vibrations significantly contribute to its multifunctional switching capabilities.

Achieving balanced properties in graphene/Cu composite with oriented bimodal grains: Strength, ductility, and conductivity

In the pursuit of advanced materials with multifunctional capabilities, graphene-based composites have gained substantial attention due to their exceptional mechanical, electrical properties, etc. In this paper, we present a straightforward method for fabricating graphene/Cu composites with an oriented bimodal structure through an in-situ synthesis process combined with hot rolling. Dendritic copper powder, mechanical exfoliation graphene and polyacrylonitrile were used as the raw materials. The graphene/Cu composite with oriented bimodal grains achieves a good balance between strength, ductility and electrical conductivity. Both the fine grains arising from the raised fine particles of dendritic copper powder and the graphene coated on the surface of fine grains facilitate the load transfer, resulting in improved strength of the composites. Furthermore, the formation of coarse grains during sintering and hot rolling deformation contributes to enhanced ductility. Simultaneously, the oriented structure of these coarse grains and graphene sheets establishes an efficient charge transport pathway, ensuring high electrical conductivity. The tensile yield strength of the oriented bimodal composite measures 315 MPa with 0.073 wt% carbon content, while its fracture elongation is 12.4%, and the electrical conductivity remains at 95.7% IACS. This study not only sheds light on the synergistic effects between graphene and copper in a bimodal composite system but also introduces a methodology for tailoring the microstructure to achieve a desired balance between mechanical strength, ductility, and electrical conductivity.

Fabrication of hyaluronic acid with graphene quantum dot as a dual drug delivery system for cancer therapy

With recent advancements in nanomedicine, there has been growing interest in developing drug delivery systems with multifunctional capabilities. In this study, we developed a novel dual drug delivery system by combining two drug carriers via positive and negative electrostatic interactions. First, we modified polyethyleneimine (PEI) with graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to create a positively charged particle (GPI) with high drug loading efficiency and good dispersibility. Second, we embedded the pyrenebutyric acid structure in hyaluronic acid (HA) through EDC/NHS cross-linking and used TAK-632 as the hydrophobic drug to create negatively charged particles (HANPs) with hydrogel-like properties and the CD44 receptor. After the two components were constructed, the increase in the particle charge and simultaneous delivery of both drugs synergistically enhanced the therapeutic effect of this strategy. Qualitative tests confirmed the successful synthesis of the drug carrier, while the potential of this system as a cancer treatment strategy was evaluated in HCT116 cancer cells (through MTT cell viability assays) and in vivo mice xenograft experiments. Our results demonstrated that the dual drug delivery system, HANPs(TAK)/GPI(DOX), had a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that this system is a promising candidate for a new type of treatment.

Three-dimensional integration of two-dimensional field-effect transistors.

In the field of semiconductors, three-dimensional (3D) integration not only enables packaging of more devices per unit area, referred to as 'More Moore'1 but also introduces multifunctionalities for 'More than Moore'2 technologies. Although silicon-based 3D integrated circuits are commercially available3-5, there is limited effort on 3D integration of emerging nanomaterials6,7 such as two-dimensional (2D) materials despite their unique functionalities7-10. Here we demonstrate (1) wafer-scale and monolithic two-tier 3D integration based on MoS2 with more than 10,000 field-effect transistors (FETs) in each tier; (2) three-tier 3D integration based on both MoS2 and WSe2 with about 500 FETs in each tier; and (3) two-tier 3D integration based on 200 scaled MoS2 FETs (channel length, LCH = 45 nm) in each tier. We also realize a 3D circuit and demonstrate multifunctional capabilities, including sensing and storage. We believe that our demonstrations will serve as the foundation for more sophisticated, highly dense and functionally divergent integrated circuits with a larger number of tiers integrated monolithically in the third dimension.

Multifunctional capabilities of radio frequency sputtered GO-TiO2 nanocomposite ultra-thin films

The work presents the successful synthesis of ultra-thin Graphene Oxide-Titanium (GOT) nanocomposite films using radio frequency sputtering. It was employed a thorough characterization encompassing structural, optical, and morphological aspects, with a focus on practical applications such as photocatalysis, anti-corrosion, anti-reflective properties, and superhydrophobicity (PAAS). Notably, the GOT film exhibited outstanding photocatalytic efficiency, achieving a significant 96% photodegradation rate, and offering promise for environmental remediation. Additionally, it demonstrated excellent visible-light-induced photocatalytic disinfection against E. coli K12 contamination. Furthermore, the film displayed notable corrosion resistance, a fivefold improvement over pristine surfaces, and excellent anti-reflective properties with 98% transmittance in the visible light range, making it suitable for advanced optical devices with multifunctional benefits.

Dual-functional nanostructures: Photocatalytic and biomedical applications of vanadium oxide activated CuCr2O4/MCM-41

In this research, we examine the multifunctional capabilities of V2O5/CuCr2O4/MCM-41 nanostructures in the context of photocatalytic degradation of alizarine red and bromothymol blue and photoinhibition of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. For photocatalytic capabilities, the V2O5/CuCr2O4/MCM-41 nanostructures displayed remarkable competence in the degradation of organic dyes, such as AR and BTB, under Visible light irradiation. The results showed that more than 95 % of both the dyes were degraded in only 50 min. In dark conditions less than 50 % degradation was observed for both the dyes in 150 min. Furthermore, the nanostructures established hopeful antibacterial properties through the photoinhibition of both E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. The zone of inhibition of V2O5/CuCr2O4/MCM-41 under visible irradiation against E. coli and S. aureus was (18 ± 0.3 mm) and (22 ± 0.2 mm) respectively. The nanostructures effectively blocked bacterial growth and viability, highlighting their capability for applications in water disinfection and of V2O5/CuCr2O4/MCM-41 antibacterial coatings.

Mangroves in environmental engineering: Harnessing the multifunctional potential of nature's coastal architects for sustainable ecosystem management

Mangroves, the distinctive coastal ecosystems of the tropics and sub-tropics, serve as crucial intersections between terrestrial and marine environments. In this review, we delve into the manifold roles of mangroves, showcasing their significance in environmental engineering and sustainable ecosystem practices. Historically undervalued, mangroves have undergone a renaissance in perception, with increasing recognition of their indispensable ecological services, ranging from coastal protection and blue carbon sequestration to fostering biodiversity and supporting sustainable fisheries. As we explore their potential in phytoremediation, bioremediation, urban resilience, and ecosystem-based adaptation, the synergistic relationships between mangroves and their resident microorganisms are highlighted, offering innovative avenues for environmental restoration. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of collaborative partnerships for mangrove conservation, emphasizing the need for a harmonized approach between stakeholders. In an era marked by rapid environmental changes, this review accentuates the multifunctional capability of mangroves as nature's coastal architects, advocating for their conservation and integration into sustainable ecosystem management strategies.

ГЕОАҚПАРАТТЫҚ ТЕХНОЛОГИЯЛАР ГЕОКЕҢІСТІКТІК ОЙЛАУ ДАҒДЫЛАРЫН ДАМЫТУ ҚҰРАЛЫ РЕТІНДЕ

The use of geospatial technologies is becoming increasingly important in geography education, enabling activities such as spatial data retrieval, sampling, organised storage and transfer of necessary information. However, this process is very slow due to many obstacles that hinder the implementation of geospatial technologies in secondary education. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyse the current status of geospatial technologies in teaching geography in schools in Kazakhstan and to as-sess the potential of these technologies to develop students’ geospatial skills. The state of application of geospatial technologies in secondary education in Kazakhstan was determined by a survey. The survey involved 208 geography teachers from 17 regions and 3 large cities of Kazakhstan. The survey results showed that 96.2% of respondents use geospatial technologies (geographic information systems – GIS, software, mapping services, geoportals, mobile GIS applications). The most common are mobile GIS applications (69.5%) and mapping services (21.4%). It was also found that 24.1% of respondents use ArcGis and 20.7% use QGIS for GIS-based data design. Although the content of typical secondary school programmes and textbooks reflects the problem of practical application of GIS technologies, it was found that teachers face a number of obstacles in using them. Therefore, teachers would benefit from using not only GIS but also geospatial technologies in general when teaching school geography. In the future, geospatial technologies will help students to develop geospatial thinking skills due to their multifunctional capabilities.

Deep learning-assisted inverse design of metasurfaces for active color image tuning.

Metasurfaces, artificial planar nanostructures, offer numerous advantages for color printing applications, including ultra-high resolution, resistance to fading, wide color gamut coverage, and multifunctional capabilities. Due to the sensitivity of their resonance spectra to the external environment, metasurfaces have garnered significant interest for color tuning applications. However, most existing approaches are limited to passive color tuning, wherein only the color changes passively while the composite color image remains unaltered. Active color image tuning, on the other hand, requires precise matching of both color and intensity to the designed targets before and after the tuning process. In this study, we propose a novel approach for active metasurface color image tuning by modulating the environmental refractive index. Building upon a forward neural network that establishes the relationship between the metasurface geometric parameters and color/intensity information, we employ a multi-objective inverse adjoint neural network. This network not only overcomes the inherent 'one-to-many' problem in inverse design using neural networks but also facilitates active color image tuning under three distinct environmental conditions. Our work provides a new approach for the inverse design of metasurfaces and opens up possibilities for applications in dynamic color printing, information encryption, and other related fields.

Synthesis and characterization of zinc ion-integrated quercetin delivery system using areca nut seeds nanocellulose

This research introduces an innovative approach utilizing waste-derived cellulose from areca nut seeds. A novel quercetin-loaded cellulose nanofiber (CNF-Zn-QT) composite was synthesized by integrating zinc ions into a cellulose nanofiber-quercetin complex. With a high loading capacity (17.48%) and encapsulation efficiency (90.42%), the optimized CNF-Zn-QT composite exhibited superior antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS+ radicals compared to quercetin alone. Furthermore, the CNF-Zn-QT composite demonstrated a slower in vitro release rate of quercetin, indicating its potential for sustained release applications. Notably, the composite also displayed enhanced antibacterial properties, attributed to the antibacterial nature of zinc ions. In terms of storage, the CNF-Zn-QT composite outperformed the CNF-QT composite in stability, underscoring its promise for long-term applications. This research not only offers a novel perspective on the utilization of areca nut seeds waste but also emphasizes the multifunctional capabilities of the CNF-Zn-QT composite, making it a promising candidate for various applications, including antioxidant and antibacterial products, controlled release systems, and stable storage solutions.

Multifunctional Biodegradable Conductive Hydrogel Regulating Microenvironment for Stem Cell Therapy Enhances the Nerve Tissue Repair.

The nerve guidance conduits incorporated with stem cells, which can differentiate into the Schwann cells (SCs) to facilitate myelination, shows great promise for repairing the severe peripheral nerve injury. The innovation of advanced hydrogel materials encapsulating stem cells, is highly demanded for generating supportive scaffolds and adaptive microenvironment for nerve regeneration. Herein, this work demonstrates a novel strategy in regulating regenerative microenvironment for peripheral nerve repair with a biodegradable conductive hydrogel scaffold, which can offer multifunctional capabilities in immune regulation, enhancing angiogenesis, driving SCs differentiation, and promoting axon regrowth. The biodegradable conductive hydrogel is constructed by incorporation of polydopamine-modified silicon phosphorus (SiP@PDA) nanosheets into a mixture of methacryloyl gelatin and decellularized extracellular matrix (GelMA/ECM). The biomimetic electrical microenvironment performs an efficacious strategy to facilitate macrophage polarization toward a pro-healing phenotype (M2), meanwhile the conductive hydrogel supports vascularization in regenerated tissue through sustained Si element release. Furthermore, the MSCs 3D-cultured in GelMA/ECM-SiP@PDA conductive hydrogel exhibits significantly increased expression of genes associated with SC-like cell differentiation, thus facilitating the myelination and axonal regeneration. Collectively, both the in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrates that the rationally designed biodegradable multifunctional hydrogel significantly enhances nerve tissues repair.

Enhancing foam stability and addressing asphaltene deposition for improved oil recovery in CCUS applications using aerogel nanoparticles

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is critical for reducing CO2 emissions and mitigating climate change. However, two major technical hurdles must be addressed for efficient implementation of CCUS. Sandpack experiments were conducted to examine the efficacy of silica aerogel nanoparticles in enhancing oil recovery and inhibiting asphaltene deposition. The nanoparticle co-injection increases oil recovery from 49.39% to 73.21% compared to sole CO2 flooding. Meanwhile, the CO2 sequestration rate within sandpacks rises remarkably from 45.35% to 83.37% with added nanoparticles. Additionally, produced oil asphaltene content increases from 4.33 wt% to 7.25 wt%. Experimental results show aerogel undergo flow diffusion from aqueous to oil phases, modifying interfacial properties. Aerogel-stabilized CO2-in-oil foams exhibit reduced interfacial tension and enhanced stability, impeding CO2 mobility. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal aerogel pores adsorb asphaltene molecules, preventing deposition. Overall, the multifunctional capabilities of aerogel nanoparticles to modify interfaces, stabilize foams, and inhibit asphaltene deposition provide pathways for optimizing CCUS efficiency.

Printed Composite Film with Microporous/Micropyramid Hybrid Conductive Architecture for Multifunctional Flexible Force Sensors.

Porous structures and micropatterning surfaces play a crucial role in the development of highly sensitive force sensors. However, achieving these two conductive architectures typically requires the synthesis of complex materials and expensive manufacturing processes. In this study, we introduce a novel conductive composite film featuring a microporous/micropyramid hybrid conductive architecture, which is achieved through a straightforward process of materials mixing and one-step screen printing. By utilizing a deep eutectic solvent in the ink component, micropores are induced in the printed composite, while the mesh of the screen mask acts as a template, resulting in a micropyramid film surface. We have successfully realized highly sensitive flexible force sensors (0.15 kPa-1) with multifunctional capabilities for perceiving normal force and shear force.

Improving Osseointegration Potential of 3D Printed PEEK Implants with Biomimetic Periodontal Ligament Fiber Hydrogel Surface Modifications

AbstractThe bioinertness, poor antibacterial properties, and weak osseointegration of polyether‐etherketone (PEEK) limit its clinical application as oral implants. In this study, it is developed a personalized and customizable PEEK implant with multifunctional capabilities through sequential 3D printing, surface sulfonation (SPEEK), and modification using a drug‐loaded photocured hydrogel composed of acrylic acid‐acrylamide (AA‐AM) containing simvastatin‐cefepime (SIM‐CFP). The modified implant, referred to as SCHSPEEK, mimics the structure of biomimetic periodontal ligament (PDL) fibers. The chemical composition, surface characteristics, and biological properties of SCHSPEEK both in vitro and in vivo are systematically investigated. The results demonstrate that hydrogel modification not only enhances hydrophilicity and reduces surface roughness and friction coefficient, but also improves biocompatibility, drug release, and antibacterial efficacy. Importantly, SCHSPEEK exhibits a significant improvement in osseointegration capacity in vivo. These findings highlight the potential of SCHSPEEK implants to serve as promising orthopedic and dental implants in clinical settings.

Regulating inflammation and apoptosis: A smart microgel gene delivery system for repairing degenerative nucleus pulposus

The progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is attributed to the gradual exacerbation of cellular apoptosis and impaired extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, both of which are induced by progressive inflammation. Therefore, it is crucial to address the inflammatory microenvironment and rectify the excessive apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) to achieve intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. In this study, we devised a smart microgel gene delivery system that incorporates functionalized gene nanoparticles (NPs) for the purpose of IVD regeneration. siGrem1 was loaded into the NPs to enhance their antiapoptotic ability and protective effects. Furthermore, the encapsulation of HADA further endows the NPs (referred to as HSGN) with targeted delivery and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capacities. To create an microenvironment-responsive microgel system, phenylboronic acid-functionalized microspheres (referred to as M.S.) were fabricated and dynamically loaded with the HSGN. This microgel system (MHSGN), which is highly biocompatible, enables the sustained release of siGrem1, effectively modulating inflammation, scavenging ROS, and alleviating apoptosis in NPCs. These multifunctional capabilities promote the restoration of metabolic homeostasis within the nucleus pulposus ECM, ultimately leading to delayed IDD.

A Review on Potential Mechanically Resistant Materials for Optical Multifunctional Surfaces: Bioinspired Surfaces with Advanced Properties

AbstractMimicking naturethrough nanostructuring allows the creation of multifunctional surfaces withremarkable properties, such as anti‐reflectivity, high optical transmittanceand controlled wettability, enabling anti‐icing or anti‐fogging behaviors. These multifunctionalsurfaces have gained significant interest in civil and military domains. However,integrating them into real‐life applications faces challenges related tocost, high‐throughput large‐scale compatible nanofabrication techniques, andtheir mechanical resistance. While sub‐wavelength patterning improves the optical performance,it often comes at the cost of compromising the mechanical resistance. As opticalperformance improves, mechanical resistance tends to deteriorate, and viceversa. To address this challenge, taking inspiration from the lotus leafstructure, where patterns are covered by a thin 2D wax film, covering thepatterns of structured surfaces with a protective layer can be a viablesolution. This protective layer should enhance the mechanical resistance of thesurface without compromising its multifunctional capabilities. This reviewhighlights the most suitable materials that can be employed as protectivecoatings and their potential to enhance the resistance of structured surfaces.The fundamental concept behind the creation of multifunctional optical surfacesis discussed, followed by a comprehensive examination of mechanical tests thatcan be utilized to characterize their mechanical behavior. This review aims topave the way for the development of durable multifunctional optical surfaces,making them more amenable to industrial applications.

CNTs/PVA Composite Aerogel for Efficient Microwave and Acoustic Absorption

The lightweight three-dimensional (3D) carbon nanotubes (CNTs) aerogel has garnered significant interest due to their exceptional characteristics, including high porosity, large specific surface area, and a 3D conductive network. These characteristics make it as a promising candidate for various applications in microwave absorption. However, to construct a multifunctional framework, that can swiftly adapt to complex real-world environments, remains a large challenge. In this study, we fabricated a multifunctional CNTs/polyvinyl alcohol composite aerogel (CPA). Integrating polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into CNTs aerogel could effectively prevent CNTs aggregation, thus obtaining the remarkable electromagnetic absorption, acoustic, mechanical, and thermal properties. The minimum reflection loss (RL) of CPA achieved an outstanding value of -39.77 dB, measured with a thickness of 2 mm. In addition, CPA showed excellent sound absorption performance, with the highest sound absorption coefficient (SAC) of 0.981. Sound transmission loss (STL) could be improved by adjusting the ratio of CPA, the improvement of STL was 5-8 dB at the mid-high frequencies. Finally, CPA also exhibited excellent thermal insulation performance with the lowest thermal conductivity of 0.0297 W/m·k. The multifunctional capabilities of CPA position it as a highly promising material for various applications, such as microwave absorption, noise reduction, and heat preservation.