Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Research Articles

The evaluation of error estimation for the Casson hybrid nanofluid flow in the uniform gap between two tubes for drug delivery applications

ABSTRACT Hybrid nanofluids are capable of being used as a carrier for delivering drugs to targeted areas in the body. For this purpose, the Casson hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) flow is suggested between the gap of two tubes. The study involves analyzing blood-based hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) that consist of silver (Ag) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles for applications of drug delivery. Titanium oxide nanoparticles, or TiO2 NPs, have strong photoactivity, low toxicity, and excellent biocompatibility, making them promising candidates for cancer treatment. The attractiveness of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for cancer therapy is due to their unique properties. Graphic representations are provided based on the simulations of non-dimensional velocity, temperature, and skin friction under physical parameter variations, for the applications of drug delivery are investigated and discussed. The control volume finite element method (CVFEM), is used to solve the problem. The new strategy of artificial neural networks (ANN) is also used to solve the transform equations. Nanoparticles increase drug stability and extend shelf life by protecting them from degradation or inactivation.

Enhancing Thermal, Viscoelastic, and Mechanical Properties of Silicone Rubber Matrix through Reinforcements for Use as a Medical Implant

The use of silicone rubber as an implant is limited due to its weak properties. In this study, the impact of various reinforcements, such as TiO<sub>2</sub> or SiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles, carbon, or polypropylene fiber micro reinforcements, on the mechanical, thermal, and viscoelastic properties of silicone rubber composites with RTV-4125 matrix was investigated. The composites were evaluated through several tests, including tensile, compression, FTIR, TGA, DMTA, and water adsorption tests. It was found that the composites' tensile strength and compressive stress were increased by adding reinforcements, with the most significant impact on tensile strength observed for SiO<sub>2</sub> and the most notable effect on compressive stress at a strain of 0.5 observed for polypropylene fiber. Moreover, the water absorption of the matrix was increased with the addition of reinforcements, with the highest increase observed for Titania nanoparticles. TGA analysis showed that all composites had higher thermal stability than the plain matrix, with the highest degradation temperature observed for the SR-C fiber composite and the highest degradation rate observed for SR-TiO<sub>2</sub>. Additionally, DMTA analysis revealed that TiO<sub>2</sub> nanoparticles considerably decreased the glass transition temperature of the matrix (%28.5), while the other reinforcements had a negligible effect on this temperature. The introduction of reinforcements had a positive impact on the mechanical, thermal, and viscoelastic properties of silicone rubber composites, and the findings of this study can contribute to the development of new and improved silicone rubber composites for implant applications.

Boosting photocatalytic water splitting of TiO2 using metal (Ru, Co, or Ni) co-catalysts for hydrogen generation

The photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles toward hydrogen generation can be significantly improved via the loading of various metals e.g., Ru, Co, Ni as co-catalysts. The metal co-catalysts are loaded into TiO2 nanoparticles via different deposition methods; incipient wet impregnation (Imp), hydrothermal (HT), or photocatalytic deposition (PCD). Among all of the tested materials, 0.1 wt% Ru–TiO2 (Imp) provided the highest initial hydrogen catalytic rate of 23.9 mmol h−1 g−1, compared to 10.82 and 16.55 mmol h−1 g−1 for 0.3 wt% Ni–TiO2 (Imp) and 0.3 wt% Co–TiO2 (Imp), respectively. The loading procedures, co-catalyst metals type, and their loading play a significant role in elevating the photocatalytic activity of pristine TiO2 semiconductors toward hydrogen generation. Redox transition metals e.g., Co and Ni exhibit comparable photocatalytic performance to expensive elements such as Ru.

Iodine-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide and Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposite as Effective Amperometric Glucose Biosensor

The current study fabricated a non-enzymatic glucose sensor based on iodine-doped reduced graphene oxide with titanium dioxide (I-rGO@TiO2) nanocomposite. Initially, the sol-gel and thermal reduction methods synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Then, the hydrothermal technique was utilized to synthesize a composite of I-rGO@TiO2 by combining I-rGO and TiO2 in a 1:4 ratio. The XRD spectrum and TEM images revealed that in the I-rGO@TiO2 nanocomposite, nanocrystalline anatase titanium is randomly distributed on the I-rGO sheets. Fourier transforms the infrared spectrum of nanocomposite to show the presence of titanium and oxygen bond characteristics peak between 400 to 850 cm−1. Iodine molecules peak at 100 cm−1 were obtained in Raman spectra. The AC conductivity and dielectric properties of the nanocomposite were analyzed. For the sensor fabrication, the indium tin oxide electrode surface is modified by I-rGO@TiO2, and the electrochemical performance was examined. At room temperature, the sensor demonstrated a wider linear detection range (0.5−10 mM). The lower detection limit of the sensor was 0.23 μM (S/N=3), and the sensitivity was 221.69 μA mM−1 cm−2. The I-rGO@TiO2 nanocomposite shows a positive temperature coefficient via the thermal activation of charge carriers and a conductivity of 3.82 × 10−5 Ω−1m−1 at 200 °C. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of the was evaluated, and dose-dependent properties were observed towards E. coli and Bacillus subtilis bacterium.

Flexible Tandem White Organic Light‐Emitting Devices with Over 46% External Quantum Efficiency via Integrating Efficient Light Outcoupling Structures

AbstractFlexible organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs) are emerging as a cutting‐edge technology that revolutionizes displays and lighting panels to be lightweight, bendable, foldable, and even stretchable. However, they suffer from the poor light outcoupling efficiency due to the presence of various optical losses. Herein, a novel method of optical manipulation is proposed, which involves incorporating light‐scattering titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) into flexible substrates, along with imprinting random micro‐lens arrays (RMLA) at the bottom of the substrates. Adopting the light outcoupling structures, the flexible single white OLEDs demonstrate a substantial improvement of 95.6% in the external quantum efficiency (EQE) compared to conventional flexible OLEDs, while maintaining a desirable spectral profile without any distortion. To further improve the optoelectronic performance, the light outcoupling structures are adopted in flexible tandem white OLEDs with two emission units, the maximum current efficiency is 147.8 cd A−1, and the maximum EQE comes to 46.2%, which is 1.74 times higher than that of the flexible single OLEDs with the same light outcoupling structures. This work offers a convenient way to design flexible light extraction substrates for efficient wearable electronics.

Performance Enhancement of Polyethersulfone-Based Ultrafiltration Membrane Decorated by Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Dye Filtration

Performance Enhancement of Polyethersulfone-Based Ultrafiltration Membrane Decorated by Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for Dye Filtration

Performance of nanoparticle-enhanced thin-film solar cell with near-perfect absorption

This study proposes a thin-film solar cell composed of periodic plasmonic titanium nanoparticles (Ti NPs) and indium phosphide (InP) thin films. By adjusting the size and position of plasma Ti NPs and combining with the transparent conductive layer ITO and anti-reflection layer SiO2, the parameters of InP thin film solar cells can be improved. The experimental results show that the average absorption rate reaches 96% in the wavelength range of 350-850 nm. The absorption rate reached 99.9% in multiple wavelength ranges. This study has successfully increased the short circuit current to , power conversion efficiency (PCE) to 29.634% and open circuit voltage to 1.053V of InP thin film solar cells.

Ensuring Photocatalyst Properties on Cellulosic Fabric by Using Citric Acid Modified with TiO2 Degussa P25 Nanoparticles

Citric acid, which is a type of polycarboxylic acid, is environmentally friendly, and non-harmful and it can be used as a cross-linker. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle is a catalyst that provides many properties for textile products with its large surface area. Present study, a mixture was prepared with different concentrations of citric acid and commercial TiO2 Degussa P25 nanopowder suspensions. Two different curing temperatures (120°C and 140°C) were applied to the cotton fabrics in the pad-dry-cure method. The adhesion of the chemicals to the fiber surface was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT/IR) analysis. The yellowing effect caused by citric acid on cotton fabrics was eliminated with white TiO2 nanoparticles. Methylene blue was used for staining the samples. Color analyses were performed with a spectrophotometer to determine photocatalytic properties of the samples. It was determined that the samples treated with a mixture of 30 g/L citric acid and TiO2 suspensions were the most discolored samples after exposure to solar light. The photocatalyst properties of the samples were further improved by removing the aggregation of TiO2 NPs on the fiber surface with the washing procedure.

Covalent triazine framework-based porous mixed matrix membranes for highly efficient dye/salt separation

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) incorporating porous covalent organic frameworks (COFs) as fillers have garnered significant attention in membrane separation for water purification. Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) possess high thermochemical stability, an inherent triazine conjugate structure, and tunable pore size. Despite these attributes, CTFs have been underutilized in MMMs. In this study, CTF-based porous MMMs were fabricated by blending 4,4′-biphenyldicarbonitrile (BPCN) monomer with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and employing titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) as a pore-forming agent. The nature of PAN also makes the mixed matrix membranes have better hydrophilicity and mechanical properties. The optimized CTF-MMM exhibited an impressive water permeance of ∼ 204 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, accompanied by a remarkable dye rejection of ∼ 99 % and a low salt rejection. Moreover, the CTF-MMM demonstrated sustained water permeance and separation performance even after 48 h. This work introduces a synthesis strategy for fabricating high-performance CTF-based porous mixed matrix membranes, showcasing significant potential for applications in dye/salt separation.

Prediction of Nanoparticle Photoreactivity in Mixtures of Surface Foulants Requires Kinetic (Non-equilibrium) Adsorption Considerations.

The adsorption of foulants on photocatalytic nanoparticles can suppress their reactivity in water treatment applications by scavenging reactive species at the photocatalyst surface, screening light, or competing for surface sites. These inhibitory effects are commonly modeled using the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model, assuming that adsorbed layer compositions follow Langmuirian (equilibrium) competitive adsorption. However, this assumption has not been evaluated in complex mixtures of foulants. This study evaluates the photoreactivity of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles toward a target compound, phenol, in the presence of two classes of foulants ─ natural organic matter (NOM) and a protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA) ─ and mixtures of the two. Langmuir adsorption models predict that BSA should strongly influence the nanoparticle photoreactivity because of its higher adsorption affinity relative to phenol and NOM. However, model evaluation of the experimental phenol decay rates suggested that neither the phenol nor foulant surface coverages are governed by Langmuirian competitive adsorption. Rather, a reactivity model incorporating kinetic predictions of adsorbed layer compositions (favoring NOM adsorption) outperformed Langmuirian models in providing accurate, unbiased predictions of phenol degradation rates. This research emphasizes the importance of using first-principles models that account for adsorption kinetics when assumptions of equilibrium adsorption do not apply.

Evaluation of Apis mellifera brain morphophysiology in response to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and deltamethrin co‐exposure

AbstractHoneybees are important insects, both economically and as pollinators. While foraging, bees can come in contact with environmental pollutants such as pesticides, possibly in combination with other xenobiotic compounds that may compromise bee health. Our current study investigated the acute exposure to nanosized titanium dioxide, a common additive in food, cosmetics, paints and agricultural products, along with deltamethrin (DLT), a well‐known pyrethroid pesticide. The effects of binary exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2‐NPs) nanoparticles at concentrations of 25, 50, 75 and 100 μg/mL with DLT were noted on Apis mellifera brain histology along with their possible synergism. In DLT‐ and combined TiO2‐NP‐DLT treated bees, survival rates were lowered and several histological alterations were observed including an increased number of cells with pyknotic nuclei, along with cytoplasmic vacuolization, chromatin compaction and degeneration indicating autophagic activity and a decrease in the cross‐sectional area of nanoparticle‐treated mushroom body calyces. A synergistic relationship between TiO2‐NPs and DLT was revealed, while LD50 for combined TiO2‐NP‐DLT treatment was 0.101, 0.09 and 0.02 μg/bee at 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. In summary, results demonstrate that TiO2‐NP and DLT co‐exposure can induce damage in bee brain structures at higher concentrations, which indicates an additional risk factor for bee health in the field.

Titania nanoparticles finishing for smart leather surface

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles, specifically titanium dioxide (TiO2) with a uniform size of approximately 5–8 nm in diameter. The nanoparticles exhibit high dispersibility and stability in hydrophilic environments. Notably, nitrogen-doped nanoparticles demonstrate intriguing self-cleaning properties, as evidenced by the degradation of methylene blue stain under UV light. Rutile nanoparticles stabilize color and color fastness in the presence of anatase-covered surfaces. Anti-mold tests reveal enhanced antimicrobial properties of the surfaces containing titania NPs when functionalized with polyethylene glycol (PEG). Ascorbic acid functionalized nanoparticles show promising behavior, encouraging the exploration of nanoparticle functionalization for property improvement. Leather samples coated with nanoparticles undergo abrasion, wear, and scratch resistance tests. The nanoparticles significantly enhance abrasion resistance, doubling the resistance. This suggests the potential for nanoparticle-based finishing to improve fastness to dry and wet rubbing, reducing defects in the coating.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles oral exposure induce osteoblast apoptosis, inhibit osteogenic ability and increase lipogenesis in mouse

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) are widely used in food, paint, coating, cosmetic, and composite orthodontic material. As a common food additive, TiO2-NPs can accumulate in various organs of human body, but the effect and underlying mechanism of bone remain unclear. Here mice were exposed to TiO2-NPs by oral gavage, and histological staining of femoral sections showed that TiO2-NPs reduced bone formation and enhanced osteoclast activity and lipogenesis, contributing to decreased trabecula bone. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) as well as biochemical and flow cytometry analysis of osteoblast exhibited that TiO2-NPs accumulated in osteoblast cytoplasm and impaired mitochondria ultrastructure with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid hyperoxide, resulting in osteoblast apoptosis. In terms of mechanism, TiO2-NPs treatment inhibited expression of AKT and then increased pro-apoptotic protein Bax expression which was failure to form heterodimers with decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, activating downstream Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 and inducing apoptosis. Additionally, TiO2-NPs suppressed Wnt3a level and then activated anti-Glycogen synthesis kinase (GSK-3β) phosphorylation, and ultimately resulted in degradation of β-catenin which down-regulated Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Osterix, inhibiting expression of osteogenic related proteins. Together, these results revealed that exposure of TiO2-NPs induced apoptosis and inhibited osteoblast differentiation through suppressing PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, resulting in reduction of trabecula bone.

Titania NPs: A Review of Their Versatile Roles in Medicine and Synthesis Methods

Abstract: In this study, we investigate the various applications of titania in the medical field. Titania, renowned for its biocompatibility and distinctive properties, plays a significant role in pharmaceutical formulations. It is vital in coating tablets and capsules, improving drug stability and appearance. Additionally, titania nanoparticles (NPs) facilitate targeted drug delivery systems, enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, we explore the promising prospects of titania-based photocatalysts in photodynamic therapy, highlighting their potential to transform cancer treatment and combat microbial infections. This comprehensive examination underscores the diverse and promising opportunities in which titania significantly advances medicine.

Assessment of Some Characteristics of a Novel Photocatalyst Based on Hydrotalcite Mg‐Al‐Ag, Titanium Dioxide and Magnetic Iron Nanoparticles

AbstractThe utilization of metals and metal oxides as photocatalysts is a common method for treating dye contamination. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs) are well known for their effectiveness as a photocatalyst in ultraviolet regions, while the inclusion of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can improve the photocatalytic properties of the nanocomposite materials in visible light. However, the TNPs and AgNPs are difficult to collect for reuse in water treatment due to their limited dispersion. Henceforth, this work recommended a novel photocatalyst based on hydrotalcite Mg−Al, magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (FNPs), AgNPs, and TNPs prepared using the co‐precipitation method. Additionally, organic silane was first time used as a coupling agent to combine the components together. Consequently, the obtained products were applied for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under natural sunlight. The characteristics of the synthesized nanocomposites were determined using infrared spectroscopy, vibrating‐sample magnetometer, X‐ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy methods. The degradability of MB under sunlight was investigated using ultraviolet‐visible method. Moreover, the antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity of these nanocomposites has been tested and discussed.

Nanoparticles on pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

Background: Nanoparticles are increasingly being used as an alternative antibiotic to target microorganisms, particularly for treating bacterial infections. In current study it was recognized processes such as metal ion release, induction of oxidative stress, and non-oxidative mechanisms. Developing resistance to nanoparticles is challenging for bacterial cells due to the multiple simultaneous actions against microorganisms, and require several simultaneous gene alterations within the same bacterial cell. Objective: To determine the effect of the titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) on the activity of the same bacteria that participate in dental caries (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli). Patients and Methods: The study included 50 patients who attended the dental clinic and took the samples by the wooden swap from the molar area (cervical area of inflamed gingiva and same samples taken from occlusal surface of molar). The collected samples were cultured on “Mannitol salt agar, Blood agar, and MacConkey's agar plates” for separation of the needed bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) that showed wide spreading in the oral cavities and dental carries. TiO2NPs are then created using pulse laser ablation, followed by coating preparation the nanoparticles materials (using a hybrid sol-gel and organ silicate nanoparticles), and finally the prepared nanoparticles to the coating solution and local paint were used for antimicrobial activity of the separated bacteria using different concentrations of TiO2 in the cultures. Results: Characterization showed the phase of the TiO2NPs was spherical, with very few irregularly shaped particles, and had an average small size in millimeters. Antimicrobial activity results showed a strong bactericidal effect against Gram-positive bacteria and demonstrated greater sensitivity to TiO2 nanoparticles at lower concentrations when compared to Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusion: It was shown that nanotechnology promise in treating various infections caused by bacteria, including dental caries. Notably, nanoparticles have demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial effects against Gram-positive bacteria. Keywords: TiO2, nanoparticles, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli

Electron Microscope Scanning, and Antibacterial Activity of Tio2 Nanoparticles on pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

Background: Nanoparticles are increasingly being used as an alternative antibiotic to target microorganisms, particularly for treating bacterial infections. In current study it was recognized processes such as metal ion release, induction of oxidative stress, and non-oxidative mechanisms. Developing resistance to nanoparticles is challenging for bacterial cells due to the multiple simultaneous actions against microorganisms, and require several simultaneous gene alterations within the same bacterial cell. Objective: To determine the effect of the titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) on the activity of the same bacteria that participate in dental caries (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli). Patients and Methods: The study included 50 patients who attended the dental clinic and took the samples by the wooden swap from the molar area (cervical area of inflamed gingiva and same samples taken from occlusal surface of molar). The collected samples were cultured on “Mannitol salt agar, Blood agar, and MacConkey's agar plates” for separation of the needed bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) that showed wide spreading in the oral cavities and dental carries. TiO2NPs are then created using pulse laser ablation, followed by coating preparation the nanoparticles materials (using a hybrid sol-gel and organ silicate nanoparticles), and finally the prepared nanoparticles to the coating solution and local paint was used for antimicrobial activity of the separated bacteria using different concentrations of TiO2 in the cultures. Results: Characterization showed the phase of the TiO2NPs was spherical, with very few irregularly shaped particles, and had an average small size in millimeters. Antimicrobial activity results showed a strong bactericidal effect against Gram-positive bacteria and demonstrated greater sensitivity to TiO2 nanoparticles at lower concentrations when compared to Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusion: It was shown that nanotechnology promise in treating various infections caused by bacteria, including dental caries. Notably, nanoparticles have demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial effects against Gram-positive bacteria.

Effects of electroless nickel -coating on tribological and corrosion behaviour of TMT steel rebar with multi-walled carbon-nanotube and titanium dioxide nanoparticles

This study incorporated Multi-walled carbon nanotube particles (MWCNTs) and Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles (TiO2) into a metal matrix composite in Ni–P coated substrate using an Electroless technique. This study significantly improves the tribological properties, enhances corrosion resistance, increases durability and extends the service life of coated rebar. Coated rebar helps make infrastructure more sustainable by extending the life of buildings and lowering their material consumption, trash output, and ecological footprint. The tribological behaviour of steel rebar has been studied by using a variety of characterization techniques, like X-ray diffraction, Atomic Force Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) including the corrosion test and the hardness test. The topographical roughness of the bare specimen, Ni–P coated specimen, CNT coated specimen and TiO2 coated specimen are 67.4 nm, 112 nm, 201 nm, and 162 nm respectively. The microhardness of the bare substrate, Ni–P coated, CNT doped coated, and TiO2 dopped coated specimens was done using Vicker's Hardness tester and the mean values were 455 HV, 580 HV, 810 HV, and 680 HV respectively. Resistance to corrosion of TMT steel rebar of Fe500 was examined using the polarisation method and Electrochemical-Impedance-Spectroscope (EIS) method. These techniques were examined in 3.5 wt% aqueous medium of NaCl and analysed the Ecorr (corrosion potential) and Icorr (Corrosion current density) of the bare substrate, Ni–P coated, Ni–P/CNT and Ni–P/TiO2 substrate. The corrosion inhabitation efficiency of the Ni–P-CNT doped was 22.5% more than the Bare substrate, and the TiO2 doped coated specimen was 10.63% more than the bare substrate. Resistance to corrosion of the CNT-coated substrate is better than Ni–P/TiO2 and Ni–P-coated specimens.

GREEN SYNTHESIS OF TITANIUM OXIDE (TIO2) NANOPARTICLES USING Phyllanthus Niruri AND ASSESSMENT OF ITS PHYSIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT

This study investigates the green synthesis of titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles, NPs and assessment of its physiochemical parameters in wastewater treatment. The methanol plant extract of Phyllanthus niruri was utilized for the biosynthesis of titanium oxide NPs. The preliminary phytochemical screening carried out on Phyllanthus niruri plant extract was conducted to identify the bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, glycosides and steroids which may be responsible for stabilizing the nanoparticles synthesized. In the treatment of the industrial wastewater sample; the result indicated that the use of the synthesized titanium oxide nanoparticles led to percentage reduction of 67.21%, 58.96%, 91.19%, 75.56% and 94.67% for BOD, COD, turbidity, oil and grease and phosphate respectively, in the raw wastewater; and was more effective than the use of commercial titanium oxide NPs. The study indicates that synthesis of titanium oxide NPs using Phyllanthus niruri is a better alternative to chemical synthesis of NPs, the green synthesized material is eco-friendly and can serve as a treatment for industrial effluents.

Is paper bag plastic-free, without plastic in colourful logo area?

The concern over plastic contamination has led to bans on plastic shopping bags, often replaced by paper ones. However, logos painted or printed on paper bags may still contain plastics, as investigated herein. In some logos, for example, white pigment of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are bound with plastic binder onto the cellulose surface of the paper. This hybrid of plastic and nanoparticle is examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) to characterise morphology physically, and Raman imaging to identify and visualise them chemically. Raman imaging scans the sample to separate images and identify not only plastic but also the co-formulated pigment. The scan generates a hyperspectral matrix containing hundreds to thousands of spectra, and subsequent analysis can enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. Decoding the hyperspectral matrix using chemometrics like principal component analysis (PCA) can effectively map plastic and pigment separately with increased certainty. The image can be further refined through 3-dimensional surface fitting for deconvolution, providing direct visualisation of the plastic-nanoparticle hybrid at a density of approximately 7.3 million particles per square millimetre. Overall, caution should be exercised when using paper bags, as they may not be entirely free of plastics. Raman imaging proves to be an effective method for identifying and visualising complex components, including plastics and nanoparticles. Environmental ImplicationThe concern over plastic contamination has led to bans on plastic shopping bags, replaced by paper alternatives. However, some logos on paper bags may still contain plastics, which is investigated to confirm the presence of plastic-nanoparticle hybrid using SEM and Raman imaging. By employing decoding algorithms such as PCA to separately map plastic and pigment, and utilising 3D surface fitting to deconvolute the image, the hybrid plastic-nanoparticle is estimated at a density of approximately 7.3 million particles per square millimetre. It's important to exercise caution and not assume these items are plastic-free. This aspect of plastics may have been overlooked as another potential source of contamination.