ZrO2 Nanoparticles Research Articles

Microenvironment-Responsive Hydrogel Enclosed with Bioactive Nanoparticle for Synergistic Postoperative Adhesion Prevention.

Postoperative adhesion (PA) is a severe complication of abdominal surgery caused by the inability of clinical physical barriers to cope with diverse pathological factors in the process of PA formation. Herein, we described a multifunctional hydrogel composed of bioactive nanoparticles (BNs) and dual-responsive hydrogel to serve as a combination of physical and pharmacological therapy for preventing PA. Specifically, BNs with pro-inflammatory cell-targeted aggregation were designed by integrating hyaluronic acid onto the polydopamine (PDA)-coated hollow ZrO2 nanoparticles loaded with antimicrobial peptides and platelet lysates that can eliminate bacterial infection and promote tissue repair. PDA can remove the excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thus suppress the oxidative stress damage and accompanying inflammation in the presence of high ROS. The dynamically cross-linked host hydrogel presents injectable yet microenvironment-responsive properties, which enables complete coverage of the uneven tissue and instantly forms a physical barrier to effectively isolate injured tissues and neighboring organs, and synchronously acts as a niche to deliver the BNs in a controlled way. The hydrogel demonstrates a remarkable antiadhesion effect in a rat cecum-abdominal wall adhesion model. Together, this "all-in-one" composite hydrogel strategy capable of a physical barrier capability and pharmacological effects represents a promising clinical solution to prevent PA.

ZrO2 nanoparticle embedded reusable and self-standing biopolymeric membrane for efficient piezodynamic eradication of gram-positive and gram-negative coliform bacteria

Bacterial infections pose a significant global threat, especially with the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance and multidrug resistance (MDR). To address this challenge, dynamic antibacterial therapies are becoming increasingly important, with piezodynamic therapy emerging as a particularly promising approach due to its non-invasive nature and quick response using mechanical stimuli to target bacterial contaminations. This study, probably for the first-time, introduced an advanced piezo-active membrane, ZrO2 nanoparticle-loaded chitosan biopolymer (ZO@CHS), which utilized piezodynamic therapy to combat both Gram-positive (E. faecalis) and Gram-negative (E. coli) coliform bacteria. By combining the biocompatibility of chitosan with the enhanced physiochemical properties of ZrO2, this self-supporting and non-toxic highly polarized bio-nanocomposite (ZO@CHS) membrane generated a significant piezo-voltage of 4.47 V upon finger tapping and promoted cellular adhesion while enhancing reactive radicals’ production under mild ultrasound (∼15 kHz), eliminating over 96 % of E. coli and 97 % E. faecalis within just 20 minutes, which corroborated well with the statistical analysis. Detailed study, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) assessment through Photoluminescence spectroscopy and bacterial FESEM examination, provided insights into the underlying mechanism. Additionally, the membrane’s robust structure and hydrophobic properties allow for cyclic reuse, retaining over 95 % effectiveness after five cycles. Furthermore, the superior biocompatibility of the membrane, evidenced by a minimal haemolysis rate of 0.11 %, making it suitable for potential in vivo applications. Thus, this novel membrane presented promising applications in healthcare systems and pigment industries, serving as a self-cleaning material.

Investigation of the effect of current density and ZrO2 bath concentration on electrodeposited Ni-P/ZrO2 composite coatings

In this study, Ni-P/ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings were deposited on St-37 steel substrates using the electroplating method with varying ZrO2 concentrations and current densities. To investigate the effects of electrolyte components and current density on coating properties, analyses were performed regarding microhardness, wear performance, and surface morphology. As a result of the analyses, it is observed that different bath concentrations and current densities significantly affect properties such as morphology, hardness, and wear performance. It is seen that the surface morphologies of the obtained coatings are generally smooth, but it is understood from the optical images that the surfaces of all nanocomposite coatings are rougher. While adding ZrO2 nanoparticles to the main matrix increases microhardness by approximately 40% compared to pure nickel, a similar but higher hardness value was obtained with the increase in current density. When examined in terms of wear performance, an average friction coefficient value of 3.15 times higher than that of pure nickel nanocomposite coatings was obtained.

Effects of ZrO2 Nano-Particles' Incorporation into SnAgCu Solder Alloys: An Experimental and Theoretical Study.

This study investigates the mechanism and effects of incorporating different ZrO2 nano-particles into SAC0307 solder alloys. ZrO2 nano-powder and nano-fibers in 0.25-0.5 wt% were added to the SAC0307 alloy to prepare composite solder joints by surface mount technology. The solder joints were shear tested before and after a 4000 h long 85 °C/85% RH corrosive reliability test. The incorporation of ZrO2 nano-particles enhanced the initial shear force of the solder joint, but they decreased the corrosion resistance in the case of 0.5 wt%. SEM, EDS, and FIB analysis revealed intensive growth of SnO2 on the solder joint surfaces, leading to the formation of Sn whiskers. Density functional theory (DFT) simulations showed that, despite Sn being able to bond to the surface of ZrO2, the binding energy was weak, and the whole system was therefore unstable. It was also found that ZrO2 nano-particles refined the microstructure of the solder joints. Decreased β-Sn grain size and more dispersed intermetallic compounds were observed. The microstructural refinement caused mechanical improvement of the ZrO2 composite solder joints by dispersion strengthening but could also decrease their corrosion resistance. While ZrO2 nano-particles improved the solder joint mechanical properties, their use is recommended only in non-corrosive environments, such as microelectronics for space applications.

Structural and optical properties of Ce-stabilized tetragonal phase and intense blue emission of monoclinic phase in ZrO2 nanoparticles

Structural and optical properties of Ce-stabilized tetragonal zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) and intense blue emission of monoclinic ZrO2 are presented in this paper. Nanoparticles of ZrO2 in the stabilized tetragonal and monoclinic phases have been prepared by the solution combustion method. X-ray diffraction studies and Rietveld refinement of the diffraction pattern show the stabilization of ZrO2 in the tetragonal phase (t-ZrO2) with Ce doping. It is the host-dopant ionic size mismatch that leads to lattice distortion and hence the t-ZrO2 stabilized phase. Raman modes confirm the phase transformation from the monoclinic to a tetragonal phase of ZrO2. The presence of oxygen vacancies and surface states in the samples play a role in altering the optical band gap. The dopant Ce-ions create defects/oxygen vacancies, which act as the trapping sites for electrons and holes/the donor and vacancy-related impurity levels. It is transition between these levels or between delocalized conduction bands that lead to band gap reduction. Photoluminescence studies reveal the presence of structural phase transformation dependent emission bands. The monoclinic phase (m-ZrO2) exhibits an intense blue emission originating from the asymmetric and unusual oxygen coordination of Zr in the m-ZrO2. The chromaticity coordinates indicate that the prepared material and adopted strategies are suitable in the field of optoelectronic application.

Lithium-doped ZrO2 nanoparticles for SERS-based norfloxacin drug detection

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy is a highly specific and ultrasensitive analytical technique; thus, it is an ideal candidate for therapeutic drug monitoring. However, SERS measurements of drugs in a sample are inevitably affected by the environment. In this study, we synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles (NPs) doped with the first group of elements (Li, Na, and K) in the main block and evaluated their SERS performance. The results showed that Li-ion doping could significantly enhance the SERS effect, and the degree of enhancement depended on the type and concentration of the doped ions. Compared with the highly stable ZrO2, Li ion-doped ZrO2 (Li-ZrO2) exhibited a significant increase in SERS activity. In particular, 1 % Li-ZrO2 NPs exhibited excellent SERS enhancement with an enhancement factor (EF) of 2.60 × 104, which was attributed to the decreased band gap and improved the charge transfer (CT) process after Li ion doping. The adsorption capacity of the Li-ZrO2 NPs for norfloxacin (NOR) molecules was gradually saturated with time. In addition, both acidic and alkaline conditions were unfavorable for NOR detection by the substrate. The SERS intensity exhibited a linear relationship within the NOR concentration range of 10−3–10–6 mol/L, and approximately 97.51 % of the active ingredients were detected, with a competitive detection limit of 10−6 mol/L. Furthermore, NOR detection is cost-effective and time-efficient, and the results of our study can aid in the research process and support practical applications. The proposed study provides a guidance for improving the SERS activity of semiconductors for sensing.

Enhancing wind turbine blade protection: Solid particle erosion resistant ceramic oxides-reinforced epoxy coatings

Wind energy has been regarded as one of the renewable energy sources to rely on in the future. In this aspect, wind turbine blade maintenance is quite a challenge in tropical areas like India. One of the main reasons why wind turbine blades get damaged and produce less energy is solid particle erosion. In the present work, nanocomposite epoxy (EP) coatings reinforced with Al2O3, ZrO2, and CeO2 nanoparticle fillers have been applied on glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) substrates using a simple spray coating method. These nanoparticles have been prepared in-house by solution combustion synthesis (SCS) route using urea, glycine, and oxalyl dihydrazide fuels. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy have been used to characterize the materials and coatings. EP coatings with different Al2O3, ZrO2, and CeO2 nanoparticle concentrations have been subjected to solid particle erosion resistance tests at impinging angles of 30°, 60° and 90°. ZrO2 and CeO2 nanoparticle-reinforced EP coatings show better resistance to solid particle erosion than Al2O3-reinforced coatings. Estimated average erosion rates are 17 and 11.3 × 10−3 mm3 g−1, respectively, for epoxy coatings with 20 and 40 wt% ZrO2 nanoparticles. However, GFRP substrate and neat EP coating show much higher erosion rates with respect to nanoparticles-reinforced EP coatings. To ascertain a correlation between H3/E2 and the solid particle erosion rates of the coatings, nanoindentation tests have been carried out. Tensile strength and initial modulus of all the coatings are found to be directly proportional to the average erosion rates, whereas, elongation at break shows an inverse relationship with the average erosion rate. This correlation of mechanical properties with solid particle erosion performance can play a critical role in the development of realistic simulation of protective coatings for wind turbine blades.

Effect of The Amount of 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate on Improving Surface’s Adhesive Properties of Zirconia

Abstract The objective of this research was silanize zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles with 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (γ -MPS). Silanization is a surface treatment process of a material using silane compounds to improve the surface adhesive and compatibility of ZrO2 with other materials or coatings and to modify its surface. The surface modification of ZrO2 by 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate as coupling agents under the influence of ultrasonic waves. The silanized ZrO2 was characterized Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FTIR analysis indicated the interaction of the silane compound on the ZrO2 surface, showing characteristic peaks corresponding to Zr-OH, C-H stretching, carbonyl groups, and Zr-O-Si bonds, indicating successful grafting. The FTIR spectra for the ZrO2 nanoparticles, showing peaks at 1088 cm−1 showed the formation of Zr-O-Si covalent bonds. ZrO2 nanoparticles also exhibited a characteristic peak at 400 cm−1, indicating the deformation of Zr-O-Zr bonds. C=C, and C=O peaks are observed in the range of 1632-1714 cm−1. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) measures showed a higher weight loss of the silanized ZrO2 when higher amounts of silane were added.

Assessing the impact of Ag: TiO2 and Ag: ZrO2 nanoparticles on the flexural strength of self-cured denture base resin

Abstract This study investigates the effect of silver, titanium dioxide, and silver, Zirconium dioxide nanoparticles on the flexural strength of self-cured denture base resin. The samples were divided into four groups according to the addition of different nanoparticles to the self-cured acrylic PMMA. Control group A, reinforcement group B (Ag + TiO2), reinforcement group C (Ag + ZrO2) and reinforcement group D (Ag + TiO2 + ZrO2). The samples were again divided into three subgroups according to the nanoparticulate addition ratio of 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 wt.% TiO2 and ZrO2 each with a fixed ratio of 0.3wt.% Ag as antimicrobial. Excluding group D addition, it was 0.05, 0.15, 0.25 wt.% for both TiO2 and ZrO2 with 0.3 wt.% Ag. After immersing the samples in distilled water for 48h, the flexural strength was measured using the three-point bend test. Evaluation of flexural strength showed a significant decrease with an increasing percentage of nanoparticles, except the increase in the percentage of additions of ZrO2 showed an increase in flexural strength. The samples underwent X-ray diffraction examination and FESEM to describe nanoparticles and examine the structure of acrylic samples. X-ray diffraction revealed the absence of mistake diffraction, indicating high crystal structure purity. In addition, images from the scanning electron microscope showed a homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles within the acrylic structure. Maximum flexural strength was seen in the 0.3 wt.% Ag-0.15 wt.% TiO2-15 wt.% ZrO2 and minimum in 0.3 wt.% Ag -0.5 wt.% TiO2. The modified samples also exhibited colour changes. We conclude flexural strength value depends on the percentage of additions and type of nanoparticles.

The charge states in polypropylene doped with ZrO2 nanoparticles and their changes at heat treatment

The charge states in polypropylene doped with ZrO2 nanoparticles and their changes at heat treatment

ZrO2 Nanoparticles Filler-Based Mixed Matrix Polyethersulfone/Cellulose Acetate Microfiltration Membrane for Oily Wastewater Separation

Membrane technology has emerged as a dynamic field of study in academia and industry for treating produced oily wastewater. ZrO2 nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) filler-based mixed matrix polyethersulfone/cellulose acetate microfiltration membranes were fabricated and inspected in the oily wastewater remediation. The fabricated bare PES membrane, PES/CA blended polymers membrane, and PES/CA blended polymers incorporating ZrO2 NPs (ZrO2@PES/CA) membranes by phase inversion technique were inspected by field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and measurement of water contact angle and porosity. The ZrO2@PES/CA membrane which consisted of 0.5 wt.% ZrO2 NPs (0.5%ZrPC) afforded increased hydrophilicity and reduced water contact angle from 70° for P membrane to 30.23°. Also, the 0.5%ZrPC membrane gave pure water flux of 88.89 L/m2.h, high oil rejection of 98.2% and showed remarkable antifouling capacity with a high flux recovery ratio of 89.3% and relative flux reduction of 34.3%. The effect of transmembrane pressure (1, 2, 3, and 4 bar), feed temperature (25, 40, and 50 °C), and an initial oil concentration (250, 500, 750, and 1000 mg/L) on the permeation flux and oil rejection of the 0.5%ZrPC membrane was investigated. The results revealed that ZrO2@PES/CA membranes have a significant potential for effective oil removal with high permeability and antifouling ability. The 0.5%ZrPC membrane confirmed its durability and reusability when kept an acceptable oil removal after 5 cycles.

Enhancing marine protection: Antibacterial, anti-corrosion, and wettability properties of smart coatings via magnet assisted jet electrodeposition

Marine biofouling poses significant challenges to marine infrastructure. Current marine antifouling coatings face issues such as long-term stability, non-toxicity, and cost-effectiveness. This study investigates the preparation of smart coatings using nano-ZrO2/Ni composite materials via magnet assisted jet electrodeposition, varying the concentration of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The coatings’ structure and surface morphology were analyzed, and their antibacterial, anti-corrosion, and wettability properties evaluated. The results showed that the smart coatings were hydrophobic and could generate reactive oxygen species radicals, and the use of magnetic field preparation also resulted in a microscopic raised structures on the surface, with an antibacterial effect that exceeded that of pure nickel coatings. Increasing the concentration of ZrO2 nanoparticles enhanced coating density and significantly improved anti-corrosion properties. The composition distribution of Zr was the most homogeneous when the mass concentration of ZrO2 nanoparticles was 4 g/L. The development of smart coatings presents promising potential for combating marine biofouling, offering enhanced protection and application prospects in marine environments.

Chemical and Green Synthesis, Characterization, Electrical and Antimicrobial Activity of ZrO2 Nanoparticles

ZrO2 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a chemical and green synthesis method. Their structural, morphological, optical, anti microbial and electrochemical properties were characterized. The green and chemical synthesis of ZrO2 was achieved by using the ethanolic extract and NaOH as reagents. XRD analysis confirmed the ZrO2 nanoparticles' tetragonal crystal phase. The surface morphological properties under the phases of nucleation, growth and aggregation as well as elementary composition were confirmed by SEM and EDS. The Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) analysis was used to investigate into the functional groups that were present in the molecules of the synthesized nanomaterials. The presence of zirconium oxide nanoparticles with an optical band gap value between 4.73 and 5.48 eV was confirmed by the absorption spectra at 226-232 nm Antimicrobial studies showed that ZrO2 nanoparticles had bactericidal activity at a dose of 10 g/mL against Proteus vulgaris, Eschericia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. The overall results of this study showed that ZrO2 NPs with excellent bioremediation and antibacterial characteristics were formed. The electrochemical behavior of both ZrO2 nano particles was examined using cyclic voltammetry studies were observed. The maximum enhanced specific capacitance value at a 10 mV/s scan rate.

Evaluation the effect of multi-pass friction stir processing on the wear, mechanical properties, and microstructure of the AA1050/ZrO2 surface nanocomposite

This work presents surface nanocomposites of aluminum alloy AA1050, reinforced with zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles developed through multipass friction stir processing (FSP). This article attempts to study the effects of the number of passes on the wear rate, microhardness profile, tensile properties, and macrostructure of surface nanocomposites. The results demonstrate that an improved distribution of ZrO2 nanoparticles is obtained following each FSP pass, and that the number of passes increases with a decrease in stir zone (SZ) grain size. Consequently, it was found that applying FSP passes continuously enhances the materials' microhardness and tensile characteristics. In the microstructure development of the stir zone during the ZrO2 nanoparticle FSP, dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was an essential mechanism. The main reason for this is that surface nanocomposites with homogenous ZrO2 particle dispersion and no discernible particle clustering in the stir zone were shown by microstructural studies conducted through FSP, which significantly reduced the matrix grain size. The AA1050 base metal (BM) has an ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness of 59.2 MPa, 24 MPa, and 30.1 respectively. The nanocomposite generated by 5 FSP passes exhibits improved yield stress (55 MPa), tensile strength (94.5 MPa), and microhardness (86.5 HV), but its tensile ductility decreased from 34% to 23.8% when compared to the base metal. Tensile strength that is higher is the outcome of fine dimples' ability to pin the dislocation movement during tensile loading. According to fractographic studies, the ductile–brittle mode replaced the dimple-shaped ductile fracture mode.

ZrO2 nanoparticles for effective dye degradation in wastewater: Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic performance under sunlight

The study addresses the critical issue of water contamination, focusing on the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye as industrial waste. A novel method is presented to synthesize zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles (NPs) using zirconium hydrogen phosphate as a precursor. The results proved the formation of spherical nanoparticles with an average particle size of about 23.24 nm, confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The structural analysis demonstrated the existence of both tetragonal and monoclinic phases, with the dominance of the tetragonal phase. The photocatalytic evaluation under sunlight irradiation showed an impressive MB degradation efficiency of about 80 % in a relatively short time of 80 min. Thus, the study highlights the potential of ZrO2 NPs sensitized by a novel approach as highly efficient photocatalysis for water treatment.

Evaluating the physical properties of microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials after the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles.

Background: The structural, physical, and mechanical properties of denture-based acrylic resin are still compromised by water sorption, water solubility, and porosity. These issues have long called for improved techniques, and the use of nanoparticles is one of them. The main objective of the current investigation was to evaluate and contrast some physical parameters (water sorption, water solubility, and porosity) after the incorporation of ZrO2 nanoparticles (0%, 3% and 5%) into heat-cured acrylic denture base materials (Ivoclare, Major) and microwave-cured acrylic (Acron MC). Materials and methods: A total of 60 resin specimens were manufactured, including 5 specimens for each concentration of ZrO2 NP (30 for porosity and 30 for water sorption and solubility). Followed the manufacturer's directions for preparing the sample of each material. Results: The results were analysed with descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance(ANOVA) test, Duncan multiple range test, and independent T test demonstrated that the addition of nanoparticles (3% and 5%) decreased water sorption, water solubility, and porosity of PMMA(polymethyl methacrylate) for both types(microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials). Where, at 3%, the ZrO2 nanoparticles showed the best values for all tests compared to the control group. Conclusions: ZrO2 (3% and 5%) nanoparticle reinforcement of acrylic resin can be a useful tactic for lowering water sorption, solubility and porosity, thereby enhancing the performance of the material in various applications for microwave-cured and heat-cured acrylic denture base materials.

Effect of porous irregular ZrO2 nanoparticles on the performance of alkaline water electrolysis composite separator membranes under complex conditions

Developing composite separator membranes with low area resistance, high bubble point pressure, and long-term safety and stability is crucial for alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production as a key component of electrolyzer systems. In this study, PPS mesh fabric reinforced PSF@ZrO2 composite separator membranes were successfully prepared using the immersion-drawing phase inversion method, with PSF as the alkali-resistant polymer matrix and porous irregular ZrO2 nanoparticles as the hydrophilic additive. The experimental results showed that replacing commercial ZrO2 with porous irregular ZrO2 nanoparticles at an 85 wt% ZrO2 nanoparticle loading improved both bubble point pressure and current transmission efficiency, attributed to the change in the morphological structure of the ZrO2 nanoparticles. The P-Z85 composite separator membrane exhibited highly promising characteristics, with a high bubble point pressure of 3.76 bar and a low area resistance of 0.20 Ω cm2. Stability tests conducted in 30 wt% KOH electrolyte at 80 °C and a current density of 0.65 A cm−2 demonstrated excellent continuous electrolysis stability for the P-Z85 composite separator membrane. These results indicate that the PSF@ZrO2/PPS composite separator membrane prepared in this study exhibits excellent performance in 30 wt% KOH electrolyte, significantly extending its service life.

Carya Illinoinensis-mediated Green Synthesis and Antimicrobial Screening of Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles: The Promising Antimicrobial Agent

Background: The synthesis of metal-based nanoparticles through conventional methods involves harsh conditions, high costs, and severe environmental threats. To overcome these issues, researchers are nowadays focusing on eco-friendly and low-cost methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Finally, several plant-mediated synthesis techniques have been developed, which have various advantages, such as low-cost, environmentally friendly, and easy application. The plant extract not only serves as a reducing agent but also plays a role as a stabilizing agent. The plantmediated synthesis provides new opportunities for cost-effective, environmentally-friendly nanoparticle synthesis with high dispersity and stability. Besides, bio-generated nanoparticles derived from plant extract have promising pharmacological applications, making them potential candidates for future medicines. Aims and Objectives: The current study aimed to synthesize zirconium oxide nanoparticles using Carya illinoinensis extract and examine their physicochemical properties. Additionally, the antimicrobial efficacy of these nanoparticles was evaluated against various pathogens, exploring their potential as potent antimicrobial agents. Method: The synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed and characterized by various techniques like UV-Vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The UV-visible peak at 216 nm confirmed the formation of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The SEM images clearly showed that nanoparticles were spherical and relatively dispersed, with few agglomerations. The EDX spectra confirmed the existence of zirconium and oxygen as the basic constituents of the sample. TEM images demonstrated nanoparticles as spherical and uniformly dispersed but agglomerated with increasing precursor concentrations and decreasing nanoparticle dispersion. Fluconazole and gentamicin were used as standards in determining the antibacterial and antifungal activities of nanoparticles. Results: Considering the antifungal activity, a maximum zone of inhibition of 16 μg/ml was demonstrated in the case of 2 mM as compared to 4 mM and 6 mM concentrations. The Carya illinoinensismediated ZrO2 nanoparticles were screened against Gram-positive (S. aureus and P. aeruginosa) and Gram-negative (S. typhi and E. coli) bacterial strains. The fabricated nanoparticles exhibited promising action against all microorganisms. Conclusion: In the current study, zirconium oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by using Carya illinoinensis leaves extract as a reducing agent. The antifungal and antibacterial potential of the synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated. The green synthesis method used in this study is preferable to the others as it is more affordable, environmentally benign, and widely accessible.

Structural, optical and attenuation properties analysis of iron-doped zirconium oxide nanoparticles for photocatalytic and radiation shielding applications

This manuscript explores the effects of iron doping on the structural, optical, and photocatalytic properties of ZrO2 nanoparticles (NPs) for photocatalytic applications. Techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–visible spectroscopy were used to investigate the characteristics of synthesized materials. The XRD pattern of ZrO2 indicates a pure monoclinic phase structure and strong diffraction orientation along the (1¯11) direction; with adding Fe with different concentrations, a new phase appeared, indicating ZrO2 NPs with tetragonal phase structure with strong diffraction orientation along the (101) direction as well as Fe concentrations increase, new phases appeared, namely α-Fe2O3, Zr3Fe, and Zr4Fe2O0.6. The observed trend in the crystallite size decreases from 25 nm to 13 nm with increasing Fe concentrations. The NPs’ optical bandgap was found to be 4.28 eV, reducing to 2.93 eV as the concentration of Fe increased. This value is in good agreement with those previously published for photocatalytic applications. The photocatalytic performance was determined and found to obey a first-order rate constant where the best-performing sample was FZO-10 with methylene blue degradation (94 %) and k values (36.2 × 10 −3 min −1), respectively. Additionally, the mass attenuation coefficient and half-value layer analysis revealed significant attenuation properties, showing a consistent decrease in GMAC with increasing gamma energy and highlighting the impact of ZrO2 concentration on gamma-ray shielding effectiveness. The outcomes demonstrate that Fe doping has a significant effect and has the potential to improve ZrO2-based photocatalytic applications’ performance.

Retraction Note: Cu doped ZrO2 nanoparticles: an optically tuned material with superior structural, electrical and dielectric characteristics

Retraction Note: Cu doped ZrO2 nanoparticles: an optically tuned material with superior structural, electrical and dielectric characteristics