Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Zhi-Qiang Wang, Yun-Guo Yang, Lu Tai, Leo Woon-Ming Lau, Dan Zhou
Summary: Surface charging in electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) is a problem that affects analytical accuracy, especially in studies of high-impact composites with different electrically resistive constituents. This report presents the causes and technical details of a gold coating technique that effectively mitigates heterogeneous surface charging. The method involves depositing a few gold monolayers onto the sample, creating a uniform surface potential that relieves charging problems in ESCA/XPS.
MATERIALS CHARACTERIZATION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
Jan Pichal, Jiri Cerman, Hana Sourkova, Petr Spatenka
Summary: This study investigated the industrial modification of surface wettability and adhesion of polymers using a plasma of a gliding discharge generated in air at atmospheric pressure. By evaluating the surface free energy and contact angle, the research found a set of operating parameters that meet industrial requirements and determined the time stability of the plasma-treated surface, showing that plasma-treated PP surface meets industrial demands and can be stored for at least 50 days.
MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Simon A. Willis, Emily K. McGuinness, Yi Li, Mark D. Losego
Summary: This study investigates the aqueous stability of amorphous aluminum oxide thin films deposited by atomic layer deposition. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals the formation of oxyhydroxide, hydroxide, and possible carbonate species on the film surface after water immersion. Exposure to air plasma anneal is shown to significantly enhance the film's stability in near-neutral pH aqueous conditions, providing a new alternative to traditional thermal annealing methods.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Shun Aoyama, Hiroki Nagasawa, Masakoto Kanezashi, Toshinori Tsuru
Summary: The effects of plasma treatment time on the gas permeation and pervaporation dehydration properties of organosilica membranes were investigated. The study found that increasing plasma modification time resulted in a decrease in pore size, leading to an increased He/N2 permeance ratio. The H2O/EtOH permeance ratio also increased from about 20 to over 1000 as the plasma modification time increased due to changes in pore structure and water adsorption properties.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Physics, Fluids & Plasmas
Jean-Paul Booth, Miran Mozetic, Anton Nikiforov, Christian Oehr
Summary: Polymer materials are widely used due to their complex shapes, versatile properties, light weight, and low cost. However, the chemical compatibility of polymer surfaces often poses challenges for their applications. Plasma functionalization provides an attractive alternative, offering improved surface characteristics using environmentally friendly compounds. These processes have exciting applications in the biomedical field, allowing for precise control over biocompatibility and selective interaction with living cells.
PLASMA SOURCES SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Physics, Applied
Zhiwei Wang, Chunlei Feng, Liang Gao, Chen Liu, Hongbin Ding
Summary: The study investigates the dynamic evolution of plasma optical emission from an array of surface micro-discharges, revealing the interaction between co- and counter-propagating streamers resulting in new streamer fronts with altered velocities and intensities. Additionally, the emergence of secondary streamers is attributed to surface charges accumulated during a prior half cycle and turbulence fluctuations dominated by electrohydrodynamic force.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICS D-APPLIED PHYSICS
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Chung-Yueh Shih, I-Chih Ni, Chih-Lin Chan, Cheng-Che Hsu, Chih- Wu, I-Chun Cheng, Jian-Zhang Chen
Summary: In this study, a helium DBD jet was used for the first time to treat graphite foil as the current collector of a paper-based fluidic aluminum-air battery. The plasma functionalized the graphite foil surface to improve wettability and enhance battery performance. The treatment significantly improved current density, power density, and energy density.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Jincheng Ran, Yuepeng Li, Menghan Zong, Huabing Xu, Man Jiang, Enxia Gao, Zhiguo Zhang
Summary: Although low-temperature plasma has been proven to be effective for mineral modification, its application to the pulp system has not been reported. In this study, surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) low-temperature plasma was introduced into the pulp through a bubble generator, and its modification mechanism on arsenopyrite and pyrite was investigated. The results showed that SDBD plasma exhibited excellent selectivity, with much less hydrophilic oxidation products on the surface of plasma-modified pyrite compared to arsenopyrite. The introduction of plasma into the pulp resulted in a longer residence time of the pulp chemistry of arsenopyrite in the stable oxidation region compared to pyrite. Plasma modification significantly enhanced the oxidation degree of the defect area on the surface of arsenopyrite, leading to a decrease in its hydrophobicity and hindering the adsorption of collector and the oxidation of xanthate ions into dixanthogen. Due to its environmentally-friendly property, SDBD plasma modification has a broad application prospect in the flotation separation of polymetallic sulfide ores.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dustin Quinones, Kai Braun, Alfred Meixner, Thomas Chasse
Summary: Coated stainless steel surfaces with silane compound coupling agent have been widely used in industrial applications. Optimization of VTMS adsorption was achieved through various treatments, with the key role of NaOH pretreatment in bonding VTMS to the stainless steel surface highlighted.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jumal Ibrahim, Sameer A. Al-Babtaineh, Samuel Cousens, Andrew Michelmore, Cormac Corr, Jason Whittle
Summary: This article investigates the discharge characteristics of an atmospheric pressure surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) generated in helium and its ability to produce amine functionalised polymer coatings for cell therapy applications. The experimental results show that the plasma device is capable of generating glow-like discharge structures that are stable over the electrode area, and high electric fields around the mesh electrode. The surface characterisation of the coating revealed rich amine functionality, potentially suitable for cell adhesion and growth.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jack Turicek, Nicole Ratts, Matey Kaltchev, Nazieh Masoud
Summary: Treatment of UHMWPE with a tubular helium cold atmospheric pressure plasma source resulted in significant improvements in wear resistance, lubrication, and adhesion properties, making the polymer surface more suitable for use in artificial joints.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Samira Elaissi, Norah A. M. Alsaif
Summary: A nonthermal atmospheric plasma reactor was used to sterilize polymer surfaces in a biological medium. The study analyzed the behavior of a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and its parameters, and found that increasing voltage or frequency increased ionization levels and sterilization efficiency. The study also identified the need for short gap width and oxygen admixture for effective bio-decontamination. These findings can benefit plasma-based pollutant degradation devices.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Ivan Shorstkii, Emad Hussein Ali Mounassar
Summary: By utilizing the physical effect of electron emission from a thermionic source and a magnetically controlled Fe-Al dynamic platform, atmospheric microplasma (AM) was generated. The electrical characteristics of microplasma discharge-induced cold atmospheric plasma in open air were evaluated using a magnetically controlled Fe-Al dynamic platform. SEM microscopy analysis revealed that plasma affected the seed surface topography and apparent contact angle. The atmospheric microplasma treatment led to modifications on the seed surface, manifesting as fine mesh structures.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Xiangming Feng, Qingyi Liu, Jinyun Zheng, Yongkai Xu, Weihua Chen
Summary: By adding the solid cosolvent ethylene carbonate (EC), the conductivity and operating temperature of Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) solid electrolyte can be improved significantly. Additionally, overcoming the poor wettability between the electrolyte and the polyolefin separator can be achieved through facile surface modification.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Qing-Nan Xu, Hong-Li Wang, Jian-Ping Liang, Yan Zhang, De-Zheng Yang
Summary: In this study, the hydrophilic properties of PTFE were enhanced using liquid-film DBD at atmospheric pressure, which was compared with air DBD. The results showed that liquid-film DBD generated more active species, had a more stable discharge pattern, and a lower gas temperature compared to air DBD. The surface modification of PTFE by liquid-film DBD did not cause damage and introduced more N- and O-containing functional groups.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Tanya Tsoncheva, Consolato Rosmini, Mihail Mihaylov, Jiri Henych, Kristina Chakarova, Nikolay Velinov, Daniela Kovacheva, Zuzana Nemeckova, Martin Kormunda, Radostina Ivanova, Ivanka Spassova, Konstantin Hadjiivanov
Summary: In this study, the effects of the Fe/Ce ratio and the calcination temperature of cerium-iron oxides on Nickel-decorated mesoporous cerium-iron oxide composites were investigated. The research delves into the complex role of the FeCe support in the reaction mechanism.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Michaela S. Slusna, Darina Smrzova, Petra Ecorchard, Jakub Tolasz, Monika Motlochova, Ivo Jakubec, Monika Marikova, Martin Kormunda, Vaclav Stengl
Summary: ZnO*ZnO2 mixture was prepared by thermal hydrolysis of a zinc peroxo-complex precursor in presence of Sn2+ and Sn4+ ions. The effect of different tin valence states on structure and photocatalytic properties of the resulting products was investigated. Samples doped with Sn2+ showed higher photocatalytic activity compared to those doped with Sn4+.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF SOLIDS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Gloria Issa, Momtchil Dimitrov, Radostina Ivanova, Martin Kormunda, Daniela Kovacheva, Tanya Tsoncheva
Summary: This study investigates the microstructure of manganese and cerium oxide bi-component materials with different Ce/Mn ratios, obtained through co-precipitation and template assisted hydrothermal techniques. The catalytic behavior of these composites in the total oxidation of ethyl acetate is also analyzed. The results indicate that a close contact between manganese and cerium metal oxide nanoparticles is achieved through an interface layer, where manganese ions in different oxidative states are isomorphously substituted or incorporated in interstitial positions in the ceria lattice. This interface layer stabilizes a shell of finely dispersed CeO2 species on the core of MnOx entities, which plays a decisive role in the catalytic process.
REACTION KINETICS MECHANISMS AND CATALYSIS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
Adam Verner, Jonas Tokarsky, Pavla Capkova, Petr Rysanek, Oldrich Benada, Jiri Henych, Jakub Tolasz, Martin Kormunda, Michal Syrovy
Summary: Layered crystal structures form flat platelet-like crystallites, and nanofibers with such structures exhibit strip-like morphology. In this study, PVDF nanofibers were prepared with strip-like morphology and longitudinal folding, and surface-modified with CeO2 nanoparticles. Molecular modeling showed that the dominant PVDF(100) plane is suitable for anchoring the CeO2 nanoparticles. Preferred crystallographic orientations of the anchored CeO2 nanoparticles were also revealed. This successful surface modification provides potential applications for the CeO2/PVDF membrane.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Bara Komarkova, Petra Ecorchard, Monika Motlochova, Viclav Slovak, Xenia Vislocka, Darina Smrzova, Martin Kormunda, Petr Bezdicka, Karol Luspai, Miriama Simunkova, Dana Dvoranova, Michaela Sramova Slusna, Lenka Belhacova, Jan Subrt
Summary: This study investigated the influence of various n-propylamines and tert-butylamine on the properties of peroxo-titanates and annealed TiO2. The results showed that using propylamine and tert-butylamine as precursors for peroxo-titanates can promote favorable growth of TiO2 crystals and enhance photocatalytic efficiency.
ARABIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jana Novotna, Martin Kormunda, Jakub Perner, Blanka Tomkova
Summary: This study used short recycled carbon fibers as fillers in epoxy matrix composites, improving the interfacial properties and wettability through plasma treatment. The mechanical properties of the composites were significantly influenced by the increasing content of recycled carbon fibers, with a more pronounced change in impact strength observed in samples with low concentrations.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Leo Sala, Tomas Perecko, Oto Mestek, Dominik Pinkas, Tomas Homola, Jaroslav Kocisek
Summary: In this study, cisplatin was utilized as a therapeutic and cross-linking agent for DNA origami nanostructures. The loading of cisplatin molecules onto the nanostructures showed time dependence and gradual release. Structural distortions were observed when the number of loaded cisplatin molecules exceeded a certain threshold. Cisplatin-loaded DNA origami nanostructures exhibited significant cytotoxicity against cancer cells, making them a promising drug carrier.
ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Mechanical
Tomas Homola, Jakub Kelar, Mirko Cernak, Dusan Kovacik
Summary: This paper introduces the technology of generating high-power density surface plasma using DCSBD plasma unit and discusses its integration in R2R production lines and its effects on the surface of polyamide.
VAKUUM IN FORSCHUNG UND PRAXIS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Julius Vida, Pavol Gemeiner, Michaela Pavlickova, Martina Mazalova, Pavel Soucek, Dusan Plasienka, Tomas Homola
Summary: Researchers have developed a low-temperature plasma process to form small TiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of MXenes within seconds. This method is suitable for producing temperature-sensitive flexible and printed electronics, and has significant potential for application.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Hana Stepankova, Hana Michalkova, Zbynek Splichal, Lukas Richtera, Pavel Svec, Tomas Vaculovic, Jan Pribyl, Martin Kormunda, Simona Rex, Vojtech Adam, Zbynek Heger
Summary: Although the general concept of nanotechnology relies on exploiting the size-dependent properties of nanoscaled materials, the relationship between the size/morphology of nanoparticles and their biological activity is still not well understood. In this study, we investigated the biological activity of Se nanoparticles with different morphologies (nanorods vs. spherical particles) and aspect ratios (AR) in human cells and mice. Our findings suggest that the aspect ratio is a critical factor for the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of nanorod-shaped Se nanomaterials.
BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
(2023)
Correction
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Tomas Homola, Jan Pospisil, Richard Krumpolec, Pavel Soucek, Petr Dzik, Martin Weiter, Mirko Cernak
Article
Polymer Science
Martin Kormunda, Petr Rysanek, Tomas Homola, Jiri Henych, Jakub Tolasz, Jakub Hoskovec, Pavla Capkova
Summary: A fluorocarbon-based (CF) nanofibrous membrane was prepared by electrospinning of polyvinylidene fluoride and its surface was modified by CeOx nanoparticles through immersion in a colloidal solution. Two methods of deposition of CeOx nanoparticles were used on the CF nanofiber membrane: direct deposition on the pristine membrane and immediate deposition on the plasma treated membrane. The plasma treatment resulted in a higher amount of CeOx nanoparticles on the CF membrane surface, with a slight decrease in the Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio. XPS and SEM analysis confirmed the presence of CeOx on the nanofiber surfaces and suggested a possible chemical bonding.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Julius Vida, Jan Pospisil, Pavel Soucek, Martin Weiter, Tomas Homola
Summary: Reducing the sintering temperature and time of mesoporous titanium dioxide is crucial for the application of mesoscopic perovskite solar cells. In this study, a plasma-based method was developed to sinter the mesoporous titanium dioxide in a significantly shorter time and lower temperature compared to the standard thermal approach. The efficiency achieved using this method was comparable to the standard thermal approach.
SOLAR ENERGY MATERIALS AND SOLAR CELLS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Nikolay Petkov, Totka Bakalova, Hristo Bahchedzhiev, Pavel Kejzlar, Petr Rysanek, Martin Kormunda, Pavla Capkova
Summary: This study investigates the influence of Al/Ti and Al/Cr ratios on the properties of AlTiSiN and AlCrSiN coatings. The addition of Ti and Cr can improve the resistance to plastic deformation and plasticity index of the coatings. It is found that adding Cr can decrease the average coefficient of friction between the coating and Al203 or steel ball counterparts.
JOURNAL OF NANO RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Irina Levchuk, Tomas Homola, Gaurav Singhal, Juan Jose Rueda-Marquez, Julius Vida, Pavel Soucek, Tomas Svoboda, Elena Villar-Navarro, Olga Levchuk, Petr Dzik, Anna Lahde, Javier Moreno-Andres
Summary: In this study, TiO2/polysiloxane(SiBi) thin films modified with varying concentrations of graphene oxide (GO) were prepared using ink-jet printing technique on flexible PET substrates. The prepared coatings were characterized and tested for photocatalytic activity. The results showed that reduction of GO occurred during photocatalytic tests and higher concentrations of rGO in the thin films led to better photocatalytic inactivation of microorganisms.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Tetsu Sato, Mariko Takahashi, Takeshi Saito, Masahito Toyonaga, Itsuo Tanuma, Rie Yamada, Satoru Hosoda
Summary: An automatic evaluation system for photooxidation has been developed and successfully applied to assess the photo-OIT of LDPE samples containing photooxidation stabilizers. The system allows independent setting of various measurement conditions and provides detailed information on the photooxidation process.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Zongzheng Zuo, Shuxue Zhou
Summary: In this study, three fluoroalkyl trimethoxysilane (FATMS) additives with different chain lengths were incorporated into a two-component polyurethane clearcoat to improve its hydrophobic durability. The coatings modified with FATMS maintained their surface hydrophobicity under various conditions, but quickly lost it when exposed to both UV irradiation and/or high temperature with water. The results suggest that the FATMS route is more suitable for indoor applications at room temperature.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Song Li, Feng Zhao, Xueya Wang, Zhihua Liu, Jingze Guo, Yutong Li, Shuangmei Tan, Zhenxiang Xin, Shuai Zhao, Lin Li
Summary: Green flame retardants have garnered attention for their environmental friendliness, but current options fall short in achieving high flame retardancy for flammable polymers and maintaining environmental protection. This study takes a two-pronged approach to address flame retardants and the flame-retardant process. An eco-friendly bio-based synergistic flame retardant (PAU), synthesized using phytic acid (PA) and urea (U), is used to create a flame retardant coating that can be directly applied to any surface shape using polydopamine as an adhesive. The resulting EPS-PAU exhibits excellent flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and light weight while only slightly increasing the density.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
