Synthesis Process Research Articles

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles: a comprehensive update on the multifaceted application, stability, biocompatibility, risk, and opportunity.

Biogenic selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have emerged as promising area of research due to their unique properties and potential multifaceted applications. The biosynthesis of SeNPs through biological methods, such as using microorganism, plant extracts, etc., offers a safe, eco-friendly, and biocompatible approach, compared to traditional chemical synthesis. Recent several studies demonstrated that multifaceted application of SeNPs includes a broad area such as antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and excellent wound healing activity. On the other hand, SeNPs have also shown promising application in sensing of inorganic toxic metals, electrochemistry, agro-industries, aqua-cultures, and in fabrication of solar panels. Additionally, SeNPs capability to enhance the efficacy of traditional antibiotics and act as effective agents against multidrug-resistant pathogens has shown their potential in addressing critical health challenges. Although, the SeNPs exhibit wide applicability, the potential toxicity of Se, particularly in its various oxidative states, necessitates careful assessment of the environmental and health impacts associated with their use. Therefore, understanding the balance between their beneficial properties and potential risks is crucial for its safe applications. This review focuses exclusively on SeNPs synthesized via eco-friendly process, excluding research utilizing other synthesis processes. Moreover, this review aims to offer an overview of the diverse applications, potential risks, stability requirement, and cytocompatibility requirement, and multifaceted opportunities associated with SeNPs. Ultimately, the review bridges a gap in knowledge by providing an updated details of multifaceted applications of SeNPs.

The decision-making process and experiences of women returning to work after parental leave: a qualitative systematic review protocol

ObjectiveTo investigate the decision-making process of women returning to work after maternity leave or parental leave and explore the influence of cultural norms and societal expectations on their choices. Additionally, we seek to understand the lived experiences of the women in this context.IntroductionCultural norms and societal expectations significantly affect women’s decisions regarding post-childbirth employment. However, a comprehensive understanding of these influences on women’s experiences returning to work after parental leave is lacking.Inclusion criteriaWe will include qualitative studies examining women’s decision-making processes and experiences of returning to work after parental leave, with a focus on the influence of cultural norms and societal expectations. Studies from diverse cultural and geographical settings, including peer-reviewed journals and gray literature, will be considered without restrictions on publication date or language.MethodsThe review will adhere to the JBI approach for qualitative systematic reviews. Major academic databases and search engines, such as CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar, will be used. Study selection will involve screening titles and abstracts for relevance, followed by a full-text assessment against inclusion criteria by two independent reviewers. Critical appraisal using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research will evaluate study rigor. Data extraction will be conducted by two independent reviewers, using the standardized JBI data extraction tool within JBI SUMARI, to identify key themes and findings related to the women’s decision-making process and lived experiences of returning to work after parental leave. The meta-aggregation approach will be utilized to synthesize findings, with confidence assessed through study quality and consistency. Any methodological deviations will be documented. Findings will be graded using the ConQual approach and presented in a summary of findings table.DiscussionBy synthesizing data from different cultural contexts, this review will help bridge the gap in understanding how these factors influence women’s choices. Rigor in the review will be ensured through the process of study selection, appraisal, and synthesis using the JBI approach. The findings will provide challenges faced by women and inform policies to help support their transition back to work.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42024546633.

Dual-catalyst effect on the molecular weight enhancement of polyfurfuryl alcohol resin and stability

This study advances furan chemistry by synthesising high-molecular-weight polyfurfuryl alcohol (PFA) resin (Mw = 118,959 g/mol) from furfuryl alcohol (FA) using a co-catalytic system, compared to conventional single-catalytic methods. Unlike traditional single-catalyst approaches, our method significantly increases the molecular weight of the resulting PFA, as confirmed by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which shows a molecular weight increase of up to 60%. The dual-catalyst system also enhances the thermal stability of the resin, with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealing a higher decomposition temperature (over 100 °C) compared to PFA synthesised using a single catalyst. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy further corroborate the structural integrity and successful polymerisation of furfuryl alcohol under these conditions. The co-catalytic approach uses acetic acid as the catalytic precursor and hydrochloric acid (HCl) as the primary catalyst, allowing controlled polymerisation and achieving higher molecular weight while maintaining processability. Comprehensive characterisation reveals that the resulting PFA resin has a highly irregular chain structure with increased chain packing, enhancing its properties. The synthesised PFA shows excellent shelf life, remaining stable for over six months without forming a hard, insoluble solid when stored at room temperature. The higher molecular weight significantly improves the PFA resin’s mechanical properties, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making it suitable for standalone moulded materials, composites, coatings, adhesives, and nanostructured carbons. The co-catalytic system elevates molecular weight and simplifies the synthesis process, making it more practical and reproducible. By leveraging furans' unique properties, this study opens new avenues for developing polymeric systems with superior attributes, contributing to sustainability and defossilisation in material science.

Regulatory mechanism of carbohydrate metabolism pathways on oil biosynthesis of oil plant Symplocos paniculata

The mechanism underlying oil synthesis in oil plant fruits remains elusive, as sugar metabolism provides the essential carbon skeleton without a clear understanding of its intricate workings. The transcriptome and oil and sugar metabolites’ content of Symplocos paniculate, an extraordinary oil plant with immense ecological significance, were subjected to a comparative analysis throughout fruit development. The findings unveiled that the impact of sugar metabolism on oil synthesis varied throughout distinct stages of fruit development. Remarkably, during the initial phase of fruit development from 10 to 90 days after flowering (DAF), pivotal genes involved in starch biosynthesis, such as ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGP), starch synthase (SS), and starch branching enzyme (SBE), facilitated an earlier accumulation of starch within the fruit. Whereas, during the fruit maturation stage (from 90 DAF to 170 DAF), the expression of phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK-1), pyruvate kinase (PK) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) enzyme genes involved in the glycolysis pathway was significantly upregulated, thereby facilitating a rapid and substantial accumulation of oil. The sugar metabolism activity of S. paniculata fruit exerts a crucial influence on the process of oil synthesis, which is highly dependent on the specific developmental stage. These significant discoveries provide potential candidate genes for advanced genetic improvement using molecular biotechnology, thus enhancing both fruit oil production and modifying the composition of fatty acids.

In-situ synthesis process of birnessite to remove Co2+ from the simulated radioactive wastewater

In-situ synthesis process of birnessite to remove Co2+ from the simulated radioactive wastewater

Embedding Antimony Nanoparticles into a Nitrogen-Doped Porous Carbon Matrix for High-Performance Potassium-Ion Battery Anode.

Antimony (Sb) has the advantages of high theoretical K+ storage capacity, low alloying potential, and excellent electrical conductivity, and it is a promising active anode material for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). In this work, a series of Sb/NC nanocomposites were prepared by the sol-gel method and carbothermic reduction technique, encapsulating Sb particles in a nitrogen (N)-doped three-dimensional porous carbon matrix. The results show that Sb/NC nanocomposites with a unique porous structure and optimal Sb content can be obtained by simply adjusting the amount of organic carbon source during the synthesis process. When used as anodes for PIBs, they exhibit high capacity, good cycling stability, and excellent rate performance (at a current density of 100 mA/g, the initial reversible discharge specific capacity reached 476.9 mAh/g; it remained at 418.0 mAh/g after 50 cycles, corresponding to a capacity retention of approximately 87.6%. At a higher current density of 500 mA/g, the discharge capacity was 310.1 mAh/g). This can be attributed to the porous carbon matrix and uniformly dispersed Sb nanoparticles in Sb/NC, which together alleviate the stress during the K+ alloying process, enhancing its cycling stability. In addition, the N-doped carbon matrix not only enhances the diffusion rate of K+ but also significantly increases the contact area between active electrode material and electrolyte, thereby improving the K+ storage performance of Sb/NC at high current densities.

Methane Production via Al4C3 Electrodeposition from CO2 at an Al Electrode/NaCl-CaCl2 Melt Interface

Abstract This study proposes a new process for methane production from CO2 and H2O via Al4C3 formation by electrochemical reduction of CO2-derived CO32− ions on an Al electrode in NaCl-CaCl2-CaO melt at 873 K. The electrodeposited Al4C3 can generate methane through a spontaneous chemical reaction with water. The proposed process was demonstrated by electrochemical measurements, X-ray diffraction, thermodynamic evaluation, and quantitative analysis of the gas generated by the reaction between the Al4C3 and water. The effects of applied potential, electrolytic time, and additives into the melt on the current efficiency of methane were investigated. It was found that methane was obtained with a maximum current efficiency of 63±2.5% when potentiostatic electrolysis was performed at 0.45 V for 5 min in the melt containing 6.0 mol% Al4C3 under CO2 atmosphere, although that was less than 10% in the system without Al4C3. The addition of Al4C3 before electrolysis prevented the dissolution of the electrodeposited Al4C3 into the melt. Based on the results, the formation mechanism of Al4C3 on the Al electrode is discussed. The novel process of methane synthesis doesn’t need reducing agents, such as hydrogen. It is also possible to obtain CO2-derived methane when needed by storing methane sources as solid Al4C3.

Polyurethane Materials for Fire Retardancy: Synthesis, Structure, Properties, and Applications

As the demand for high-performance polymers broadens, polyurethane (PU) polymers with various chemical modifications have attracted attention. This review explores the chemical structure and functional variations of PUs. PUs are used in a variety of fields, ranging from aerospace engineering to daily necessities, and show remarkable safety adaptability through designable synthesis processes. This study is divided into four main parts: (1) synthesis and structure, covering the synthesis of PU base and modification of additive compounds; (2) performance, studying physical properties and thermal degradation processes; (3) application, evaluating the commercial potential of PU polymers; and (4) flame retardancy, analyzing five established flame-retardant mechanisms. The last part discusses how PUs can meet sustainable development goals by replacing petroleum-based materials with green materials. By emphasizing non-petroleum resources and novel, sustainable modification strategies, this review conducts guidance for the safe and environmentally friendly application of PUs in the future.

Transcriptomic Regulation by Astrocytic m6A Methylation in the mPFC.

Astrocytes, the most prevalent type of glial cells, have been found to play a crucial part in numerous physiological functions. By offering metabolic and structural support, astrocytes are vital for the proper functioning of the brain and regulating information processing and synaptic transmission. Astrocytes located in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) are highly responsive to environmental changes and have been associated with the development of brain disorders. One of the primary mechanisms through which the brain responds to environmental factors is epitranscriptome modification. M6-methyladenosine methylation is the most prevalent internal modification of eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA), and it significantly impacts transcript processing and protein synthesis. However, the effects of m6A on astrocyte transcription and function are still not well understood. Our research demonstrates that ALKBH5, an RNA demethylase of m6A found in astrocytes, affects gene expression in the mPFC. These findings suggest that further investigation into the potential role of astrocyte-mediated m6A methylation in the mPFC is warranted.

Application of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy in Characterization of Green Synthesized Nanoparticles

The fundamental principle of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is based on the vibration and rotation of atoms, and it has become a universal and widely used spectral methodology for the detection of internal molecular structures in a diverse range of fields. A considerable number of review articles pertaining to the applications of FTIR spectroscopy have been published in recent years. Nevertheless, a comprehensive summary of the application of FTIR spectroscopy in nanoparticles’ (NPs’) green synthesis has yet to be presented. In the present paper, we propose a series of case studies that demonstrate the application of FTIR spectroscopy in the analysis of metal and metal oxide NPs that have been synthesized using green synthesis processes. Furthermore, a summary is presented of the position of functional group bands in FTIR spectra that are responsible for the reduction, capping and stabilization of NPs. In this review, we explore the advantages and limitations of FTIR and propose methodologies for overcoming these challenges. We also present potential solutions for the analysis of complex FTIR spectra. The present summary is intended to serve as a compendium of information for researchers engaged in the field of green synthesis of NPs, utilizing FTIR spectroscopy as a research tool.

Recent Progress in g-C3N4-Based Photocatalysts for Organic Pollutant Degradation: Strategies to Improve Photocatalytic Activity

With unique photochemical properties, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has gained significant attention for application in photocatalytic degradation of a wide range of organic pollutants. However, its performance is limited by the rapid electron–hole recombination and the relatively weak redox capability. Substantial progress has been made in the preparation of g-C3N4-based photocatalysts with enhanced photocatalytic activity. This review summarizes the recent advances in strategies to improve the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4-based photocatalysts and their application in the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Morphology control, doping, functionalization, metal deposition, dye sensitization, defect engineering, and construction of heterojunctions can be used to improve the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4 through promoting charge carrier separation, reducing the bandgap, and suppressing charge recombination. Furthermore, a range of oxidants, such as hydrogen peroxide and persulfate, can be coupled with g-C3N4-based photocatalysts to enhance the generation of reactive oxygen species and boost the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Precise control over the g-C3N4 structure during the synthesis process remains a challenge, and further improvements are required in photocatalyst stability and the mineralization rates of organic pollutants. More research and development effort is needed to address the existing challenges, refine the design of g-C3N4-based photocatalysts to improve their activity, and promote their practical application in pollutant degradation.

Critical review on the derivative of graphene with binary metal oxide-based nanocomposites for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes

Abstract Supercapacitors, owing to their high power density and rapid charge–discharge capabilities, have gained significant attention as energy storage devices in various applications. In the context of electrochemical supercapacitors, this article provides a comprehensive review of the production and electrochemical performance of binary metal oxide (BMO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite materials. The synthesis processes and synergistic benefits of BMO–rGO composites, with an emphasis on how they perform better than separate parts in terms of specific capacitance and cycle stability, are discussed. The potential of BMO–rGO composites as high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors is highlighted in this research. In the context of electrochemical supercapacitors, this work provides a comprehensive review of the production and electrochemical performance of binary transition metal oxide (TMO) and rGO composite materials. Composite materials with enhanced electrochemical characteristics that are appropriate for supercapacitor applications are the primary novelty, which is the synergistic combination of rGO with a variety of TMOs. Compared to individual TMOs or other carbonaceous materials, these composites demonstrate enhanced specific capacitance, energy density, power density, cyclic stability, and rate capability. The synthesis processes and synergistic benefits of BMO–rGO composites are discussed, with an emphasis on their superior performance in specific capacitance and cycle stability compared to individual components. This research highlights the potential of BMO–rGO composites as high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors, showcasing their enhanced specific capacitance, improved charge storage capacity, increased power density, excellent cycling stability, and overall durability even after numerous charge–discharge cycles.

A Simple and Efficient Non-Noble Cathode Catalyst Based on Carbon Hollow Nanocapsules Containing Cobalt-Based Materials for Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzer.

An efficient approach for fabrication of non-noble metal-based electrocatalyst is desirable fordesigning the energy storage and conversion devices in real-world usages due to low cost and excellent catalytic properties. The preparation of hollow carbon capsules (HCC) containing cobalt (Co)-based electrocatalyst is reported by a simple synthesis process without using templates for the first time. Initially, cobalt phenylphosphonate (Co-MOF) nanorods are fabricated through a simple hydrothermal approach. The as-formed Co-MOF is covered with a thin coating of polydopamine (DP-Co-MOF) through chemical polymerization of dopamine in Tris-HCl (pH 8.5). The DP-Co-MOF is used as self-degraded template for the formation of HCC under pyrolysis. The formation mechanism and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of HCC are investigated. The hollow structure derived under N2exhibits a low overpotential (295mV at 100mA cm-2) with excellent stability (90.98%) for 150h, whichis further verified by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Finally, the designed anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolyzer based on C─Co─N as cathode delivers a current density of 500mA cm-2(at 2.19V) and 1000 mAcm-2 (at 2.33V)in 1.0m KOH at 60°C. The fabricated new Co-based electrocatalyst is highly beneficial for the fabrication of cost-effective and high-performance AEMWEs.

Implantable Polymer Scaffolds Loaded with Paclitaxel–Cyclodextrin Complexes for Post-Breast Cancer Tissue Reconstruction

The side effects associated with the chemotherapy of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), such as nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor family (NLR), pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activity, are responsible for the treatment failure and high mortality rates. Therefore, advanced delivery systems have been developed to improve the transport and targeted administration of anti-tumor agents at the tumor sites using tissue engineering approaches. Implantable delivery systems based on biodegradable polymers are an effective alternative due high biocompatibility, porosity, and mechanical strength. Moreover, the use of paclitaxel (PTX)-cyclodextrin complexes increases the solubility and permeability of PTX, enhancing the bioavailability and efficacy of the drug. All of these properties contribute to the efficient encapsulation and controlled release of drugs, preventing the damage of healthy tissues. In the current study, we detailed the synthesis process and evaluation of 3D scaffolds based on gelatin functionalized with methacryloyl groups (GelMA) and pectin loaded with PTX–cyclodextrin inclusion complexes on TNBC pathogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Bio-physio-chemical analysis of the proposed scaffolds revealed favorable mechanical and biological properties for the cellular component. To improve the drug solubility, a host–guest interaction was performed by the complexation of PTX with a cyclodextrin derivative prior to scaffold synthesis. The presence of PTX suppressed the growth of breast tumor cells and promoted caspase-1 activity, the release of interleukin (IL)-1β, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), conditioning the expression levels of the genes and proteins associated with breast tumorigenesis and NLRP3 inflammasome. The in vivo experiments suggested the activation of pyroptosis tumor cell death, confirming the in vitro experiments. In conclusion, the bio-mechanical properties of the GelMA and pectin-based scaffolds as well as the addition of the PTX–cyclodextrin complexes allow for the targeted and efficient delivery of PTX, suppressing the viability of the breast tumor cells via pyroptosis cell death initiation.

Mechanism of High Hydrocarbon-Fuel-Gelation Performance of Ultralow-Concentration Bis-urea-Based Gellants.

Bis-urea-based gellants have garnered considerable attention due to their capacity to form all kinds of gels in solvents for multiple applications. Nevertheless, the range of applicable solvents is limited, and the synthesis process is complicated. Herein, we report a one-step synthesis process of bis-urea-based gellants (Bu(n)) for gelling nonpolar organic solvents, including high-energy fuels. Importantly, the critical gelation concentration (CGC) of Bu(n) decreases with the increase of alkyl chain length, and that of Bu18 is lower than 0.1 wt % in various hydrocarbon fuels. The discrepant gelation performance of gellants in solvents was investigated by molecular dynamics simulation and spectral characterizations. The results indicate that the electrostatic interaction between urea groups is vital to constructing a gellant framework, and the wide van der Waals (vdW) surface provided by alkyl groups helps to immobilize solvents. The nonbonding interactions between gellant molecules facilitate the formation of a 3D fibrous network structure, which further accumulates into a cambium layer structure. Due to the excellent gelation performance of gellants in fuels, the gel fuels perform the rheological characteristics of shear thinning and thixotropic recovering with calorific value remaining, thus demonstrating potential for application.

Polyimide/cellulose composite membrane with excellent heat-resistance and fast lithium-ion transport for lithium-ion batteries.

Polyimide membranes have long been of great interest in the battery industries due to their outstanding thermal stability and flame retardancy. However, the preparation of polyimide membranes with ideal pore structure and excellent lithium-ion transference remains a challenge. In this study, we reported for the first time, that a nano-porous fluorinated and partially carboxylated polyimide/cellulose composite membrane was successfully synthesized by selected monomers and prepared by thermal imidization, phase separation, and alkaline hydrolysis method. Particularly, an appropriate addition of cellulose acetate (CA) during the synthesis process can optimize the pore structure of the membrane. Besides, CA was converted to cellulose after alkaline hydrolysis, further enhancing the electrolyte affinity and lithium-ion transference of the membrane. Hence, this composite membrane exhibited distinct heat-resistance, high porosity (78%), electrolyte absorption (344%), and lithium-ion transfer number (0.84). Most importantly, thanks to the above characteristics of the membrane, the assembled LiFePO4/Li cells demonstrated excellent cycling stability compared with the cell with PP membrane, showing a capacity retention rate of as high as 93% after 500cycles at 1C. We anticipate that this composite membrane with superior physical and electrochemical properties would shed light on the development of next-generation membranes for high-power and high-safety batteries.

Comparative study on synthesis processes on soot combustion performance of Co Ce O catalysts

Comparative study on synthesis processes on soot combustion performance of Co Ce O catalysts

Genome-wide survey of chlorophyllase (CLH) gene family in seven Rosaceae and functional characterization of MdCLH1 in apple (Malus domestica) leaf photosynthesis

Chlorophyll, a crucial pigment in plant photosynthesis, undergoes dynamic synthesis and degradation processes throughout the growth cycle of plants. Chlorophyllase (CLH) plays a crucial role in the degradation of chlorophyll by removing the phytol group from chlorophyll A to produce chlorophyllide A. However, Rosaceae species remain underexplored in terms of understanding the functional divergences among CLH gene family members (CLHs) involved in chlorophyll catabolism and photosynthesis. The apple (Malus domestica) CLHs also requires further systematic characterization and identification. In this study, 20 CLHs (MdCLH1-4, FvCLH1-2, PpCLH1-2, PcCLH1-3, PaCLH1-2, RrCLH1-4, RcCLH1-3) were identified from seven species belonging to the Rosaceae family. The chromosomal distribution of these gene family members is mostly separate across all species, except in Rosa rugosa. The number of amino acids encoded by these genes ranges from 171 aa to 391 aa, possessing a theoretical isoelectric point (PI) of 5.46-9.59, and a relative molecular weight of 18313.07D to 42413.21D. Secondary structure predictions highlight α-helix and random coil conformations as the dominant structural elements of CLH proteins present in Rosaceae species. Subcellular localization predictions indicate that all CLH proteins are expressed in chloroplasts, while MdCLH4 is uniquely localized to the nucleus. Phylogenetic analysis reveals high homology and close evolutionary relationships among the genes in three subfamilies. All these 20 CLHs contain elements responsive to phytohormones, environmental stress, and light. Furthermore, transcriptomic profiling using geneChip expression array coupled with qRT-PCR analyses revealed a heightened transcriptional activity of MdCLHs in leaf tissues and protective tissue of annual shoots as compared to other plant components. Additional experimental evidence specifically indicates MdCLH1 is located in the chloroplasts of tobacco leaves. Notably, MdCLH1 transient expression in apple leaves decreased chlorophyll a, carotenoids, total chlorophyll content, non - photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ), and intercellular CO₂ concentration (Ci), while increasing chlorophyll b content, effective PSII quantum yield [Y(II)], net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), and electron transport rate (ETR). These suggest MdCLH1 enhances light energy conversion in PSII by modulating chlorophyll degradation, potentially improving photosynthetic efficiency and reducing the potential for photoinhibition. This study lays a solid foundation for further exploration into the functional roles of CLHs in the Rosaceae family.

Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Carrier-synthesis, Functionalization and Application.

In recent years, advancements in chemistry have allowed the tailoring of materials at the nanoscopic level as needed. There are mainly four main types of nanomaterials used as drug carriers:metal-based nanomaterials, organic nanomaterials, inorganic nanomaterials, and polymer nanomaterials. The nanomaterials as a drug carrier showed advantages for decreased side effects with a higher therapeutic index. The stability of the drug compounds is increased by encapsulation of the drug within the nano-drug carriers, leading to decreased systemic toxicity. Nano-drug carriers are also used for controlled drug release by tailoring system-made solubility characteristics of nanoparticles by surface coating with surfactants. The review focuses on the different types of nanoparticles used as drug carriers, the nanoparticle synthesis process, techniques of nanoparticle surface coating for drug carrier purposes, applications of nano-drug carriers, and prospects of nanomaterials as drug carriers for biomedical applications.

Structural and thermal insights into the luminescent behavior of Dy³⁺-Doped BaZrO₃ with alkali metal codopants under UV radiation.

This study investigates the structural, thermal, and photoluminescent properties of Dy³⁺-doped BaZrO₃ (BZO) perovskites, synthesized via a co-precipitation method, incorporating alkali metal codopants (Li⁺, Na⁺, and K⁺). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the retention of the cubic perovskite phase following doping, with Rietveld refinement further revealing minor lattice distortions due to Dy³⁺ incorporation. The Williamson-Hall (W-H) analysis revealed average crystallite sizes of 53nm and 66nm for undoped and 0.01 Dy³⁺-doped BaZrO₃, respectively, with corresponding micro-strain values of 1.79×10⁻³ and 1.81×10⁻³, suggesting lattice distortions due to incorporation of Dy³⁺. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the cubic perovskite structure and subtle structural modifications upon doping. Notably, the absence of moisture-related peaks highlights the effectiveness of the synthesis process, including rigorous drying and calcination steps that prevented hydrous species. Photoluminescence (PL) analysis of Dy³⁺-doped BaZrO₃ exhibited three prominent emission peaks at 452nm, 573nm, and 656nm under 368nm excitation. These peaks correspond to the characteristic intra-4f electronic transitions of Dy³⁺ ions, specifically, 4I13/2 to 6H15/2, 4F9/2 to 6H13/2, and 4F9/2 to 6H11/2, representing blue, yellow, and red emissions, respectively. Photoluminescence decay studies showed multi-exponential behavior, with the average lifetime decreasing from 641 μs in undoped BZO to 492 μs in Dy³⁺-doped samples attributed to enhanced non-radiative recombination pathways. Among the codopants, Li⁺ demonstrated the most significant improvement in luminescence intensity and thermal stability by mitigating defects and optimizing charge compensation.