Article
Chemistry, Physical
Linzhe Wang, Jian Qin, Zhimin Bai, Huaming Qian, Yanyan Cao, Hirbod Maleki Kheimeh Sari, Yukun Xi, Hui Shan, Shuai Wang, Jiaxuan Zuo, Xiaohua Pu, Wenbin Li, Jingjing Wang, Xifei Li
Summary: In this study, in situ Zn-doped NCM material was successfully designed by atomic layer deposition combined with annealing. Compared with ex situ Zn-doped NCM, in situ Zn-NCM exhibited better stability and reduced surface defects due to its lower migration energy barrier and more uniform distribution of heteroatoms. As a result, it showed higher reversible capacity and initial Coulombic efficiency. Therefore, in situ doping is an effective strategy to enhance the performance of lithium-ion battery cathodes.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Kab In Kim, Jae Kwan Bae, Emilio Audasso, Albert Won Cho, Young Bae Jun, Hyun Seo Park, Seong-Cheol Jang, Yong Soo Cho, Han Sung Kim, Sun-Hee Choi, Sung Pil Yoon
Summary: This study introduces a novel in situ method for replenishing the electrolyte in molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) using gaseous electrolyte precursors (EP). The method demonstrates sustainable long-term operation and stable performance of MCFCs, offering enhanced durability and making them more viable for energy applications.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Anindya Nag, Nasrin Afsarimanesh, Suresh Nuthalapati, Mehmet Ercan Altinsoy
Summary: This paper presents the use of surfactant-induced MWCNTs/PDMS-based nanocomposites for tactile sensing applications. Nanocomposites-based sensors have been extensively studied due to their enhanced electromechanical characteristics. The paper highlights the development of nanocomposites with optimized nanofillers and surfactant, resulting in sensors with good mechanical behavior, stable and repeatable output, and short response time. These sensors have potential applications in low-pressure tactile sensing.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Thien Truong, Di Kang, Er -Chien Wang, Jiali Wang, Sieu Pheng Phang, Daniel Macdonald, Josua Stuckelberger
Summary: We fabricate ex-situ phosphorus-doped poly-Si passivating contacts using the physical vapour deposition method, specifically sputtering. This technique is highly interesting in the photovoltaics community due to its low deposition temperature, small footprint, high throughput, and use of low-hazard, solid targets and gases. By optimizing the sputtering parameters and subsequent thermal diffusion processes, we achieve high iVoc, low J0, and low contact resistivity for both POCl3 and spin-on doping sources. The results demonstrate the potential of PVD poly-Si films as a promising candidate for future industrial solar cells.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
A. Bajorek, B. Szostak, M. Dulski, J. -m. Greneche, J. Kubacki, S. Lewinska, B. Liszka, M. Pawlyta, A. Slawska-Waniewska, M. Szczepanik, E. Partyka-Jankowska, T. Sobol
Summary: This study compares the NZFO/f-MWCNTs composites based on Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 (NFZO) nanoparticles with 5 wt % and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs), synthesized by ex-situ and in-situ methods. The notable difference in the NZFO average crystallite size between the two nanohybrids is revealed. Raman spectroscopy confirms a slight redistribution of cations over tetrahedral and octahedral sites depending on the synthesis route. Electronic structure analysis exposes the dominant role of the f-MWCNTs matrix. Photoemission and absorption spectra confirm the formation of NZFO/f-MWCNTs composites.
JOURNAL OF MAGNETISM AND MAGNETIC MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Silvia Beatriz Brachetti-Sibaja, Diana Palma-Ramirez, Aide Minerva Torres-Huerta, Miguel Antonio Dominguez-Crespo, Hector Javier Dorantes-Rosales, Adela Eugenia Rodriguez-Salazar, Esther Ramirez-Meneses
Summary: The optimal conditions for synthesizing and purifying carbon nanotubes from ferrocene were determined through CVD, with key parameters being processing temperature and purification method. The CNTs produced by CVD were found to be superior to commercial ones for preparing composites with conductive polymers, enhancing structural stability and electrical properties. The synergistic effects among hydrogen bonds, stability, and conductivity were more pronounced in PANI/MWCNTs composites, suggesting potential for various technological applications.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
S. Sumanth Dongre, R. Shwetharani, Sk Abdul Moyez, R. Geetha Balakrishna
Summary: The effect of in-situ and ex-situ doping of Nd3+ into CsPbBr3 matrix was studied. In-situ doping enhanced the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) and lifetime, while ex-situ doping resulted in PL quenching. In-situ doped Nd-CsPbBr3 nanocrystals can be used as a highly sensitive probe for rapid detection of volatile organic compounds.
MATERIALS CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Lachlan M. Oberg, Marietta Batzer, Alastair Stacey, Marcus W. Doherty
Summary: This study investigates the catalytic effect of surface-embedded nitrogen on diamond growth, revealing that nitrogen can promote nucleation of new diamond layers. A new model and mechanism for nitrogen overgrowth are proposed, shedding light on the role of nitrogen in enhancing diamond growth.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Eric Navarrete, Frank Guell, Paulina R. Martinez-Alanis, Eduard Llobet
Summary: Different thicknesses of Au films were used in the growth of ZnO nanowires, with the 6 nm thick layers showing the most stable and repeatable gas sensing properties. Despite ZnO nanowires grown using the thickest Au layers reaching the highest responses under dry conditions, those grown using the thinnest Au film were more resilient at detecting NO2 in the presence of ambient moisture. The gas sensing results were discussed in light of defects and Au impurities in the ZnO nanowires, as revealed by characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy.
JOURNAL OF ALLOYS AND COMPOUNDS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Alexandru Cocean, Iuliana Cocean, Georgiana Cocean, Cristina Postolachi, Daniela Angelica Pricop, Bogdanel Silvestru Munteanu, Nicanor Cimpoesu, Silviu Gurlui
Summary: This study analyzed the results of producing nanocomposites by depositing a silver citrate thin layer on hemp fiber surfaces, demonstrating inhibition of the fermentation process of Saccharomyces cerevisae. The composite material has potential applications in sensors, optoelectronics, and medical analysis and treatment.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yun Ki Kim, Keun-Young Shin
Summary: This study presents a concise method to fabricate PPY on flexible graphene substrate, investigates the influence of initiators on pyrrole polymerization, and explores the effects of morphological changes and doping concentrations of PPY on capacitive behaviors. The assistance of dopamine enhances the uniformity of PPY layers and improves the supercapacitor performance, demonstrating the potential for wearable energy-storage devices application.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Xueyin Bai, Shisheng Li, Susobhan Das, Luojun Du, Yunyun Dai, Lide Yao, Ramesh Raju, Mingde Du, Harri Lipsanen, Zhipei Sun
Summary: The study demonstrates the successful synthesis of high-quality vertical bilayer MoS2/WS2 heterostructures with a grain size of up to 60 µm through a single-step CVD process. Unlike normal pyramid structures, an anti-pyramid MoS2/WS2 structure was synthesized, providing new insights into the synthesis and applications of two-dimensional heterostructures.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Mostafa A. Atia, Petr Smejkal, Vipul Gupta, Paul R. Haddad, Michael C. Breadmore
Summary: This study demonstrates the superior performance of chemical vapour deposition (CVD) coating for suppressing the electroosmotic flow (EOF) compared to liquid phase deposition (LPD) in capillary electrophoresis (CE). By adjusting the modification method and surface chemistry, the capillary can be easily and effectively modified, and the stability of the coating meets the long-term monitoring requirements for water chemistry.
ANALYTICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dokyoung Kim, Dohyun Kim, Sehun Oh, Taiho Park, Kijung Yong
Summary: This study successfully enhanced the HER activity in alkaline solutions by incorporating oxophilic metals into WP/WOx films. Nanostructure engineering was employed to further improve the HER performance, and the prepared Co:WP/WO NWs catalyst exhibited superior performance in alkaline media.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiaoling Cui, Shimin Wang, Xiushen Ye, Xiaoqi Fan, Cankun Gao, Yin Quan, Shuxiang Wen, Xingpeng Cai, Jin Huang, Shiyou Li
Summary: In this study, the performance of the P2 phase layered manganese-based transition metal (TM) oxides in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) is improved by doping with F and Mg. F-doping reduces capacity fading caused by irreversible phase transition and Jahn-Teller effect, while Mg-doping completely inhibits phase transition and mitigates the slide of TM layers. The double-doping of F and Mg synergistically improves the performance of SIBs.
ENERGY STORAGE MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Joyce B. Matsoso, Catherine Journet, Neil J. Coville, Zdenek Sofer
Summary: Graphene, an important 2D material, has been widely used in various applications due to its remarkable properties. Through intentional doping with boron and nitrogen, graphene derivatives with new and improved properties can be produced. However, the application of B/N co-doped graphene nanomaterials in renewable energy conversion and storage technology lacks research data.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Ludwe L. Sikeyi, Laercia R. Bila, Themba D. Ntuli, Cyril T. Selepe, Nobanathi W. Maxakato, Neil J. Coville, Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng
Summary: This study presents the synthesis of Pt supported on titania oxide nanoparticles decorated on sulfur doped onion-like carbon nanoparticles (S-OLCNs) and their application as electrocatalysts for ammonia oxidation reactions. The incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles into Pt/S-OLCN was found to significantly enhance the activity of Pt for the ammonia oxidation reaction by facilitating the electron transfer process. Pt/TiO2/S-OLCN also exhibited better long term stability and faster charge transfer resistance compared to other catalysts tested.
DIAMOND AND RELATED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Electrochemistry
B. Shaku, T. P. Mofokeng, N. J. Coville, K. I. Ozoemena, M. S. Maubane-Nkadimeng
Summary: This study presents the conversion of marula nutshell waste into nitrogen-doped activated carbon (N-ACs) for supercapacitor electrode material. The N-ACs demonstrated high surface area and porosity, resulting in excellent electrochemical performance in KOH and KNO3 electrolytes. The material achieved remarkable energy and power densities in 2.5 M KNO3 electrolyte, making it a promising energy storage material for supercapacitors.
ELECTROCHIMICA ACTA
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ryan O'Connor, Joyce B. Matsoso, Victor Mashindi, Pumza Mente, Lebohang Macheli, Beatriz D. Moreno, Bryan P. Doyle, Neil J. Coville, Dean H. Barrett
Summary: In this study, the influence of counter anion on the structural properties of hollow carbon spheres (HCS) support was investigated. It was found that the thickness of the HCS shell depended on the type of nickel precursor salt used. The choice of precursor salt also affected the textural properties of the HCS nanosupports and influenced the growth of nickel nanoparticles.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Ibrahim B. Usman, Clara I. Garcia-Martinez, Joyce B. Matsoso, Isidro Cruz-Cruz, Rudolph Erasmus, Neil J. Coville, Jose P. M. Serbena, Daniel M. Wamwangi
Summary: This study investigates the chemical vapour sensing behavior of pristine gallium nitride (GaN) and carbon coated GaN nanostructures towards different analytes. The findings show that carbon coating improves the sensitivity of GaN to polar protic analytes, especially toxic ammonia. Additionally, the carbon coating enhances the sensitivity to water molecules.
MATERIALS TODAY COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Review
Optics
Orlette Mkhari, Themba D. Ntuli, Neil J. Coville, Edward N. Nxumalo, Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng
Summary: Carbon dot/support nanocomposites exhibit improved properties and hold great potential for applications in fields such as photocatalysis, electrochemistry, optics, and nanomedicine.
JOURNAL OF LUMINESCENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Djalila Guettaia, Hanane Zazoua, Mohammed Reda Ramdani, Khaldoun Bachari, Neil J. Coville, Amel Boudjemaa
Summary: This paper reports on the photodegradation of ibuprofen (IBP) using SiO2@xTiO(2) synthesized via a hydrothermal method. The catalysts were prepared by adding TiO2 to a Stober synthesized silica at different weight loadings. The SiO2@xTiO(2) showed excellent photodegradation efficiency and the degradation rate of IBP increased with the formation of H2O2.
REACTION KINETICS MECHANISMS AND CATALYSIS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Themba D. Ntuli, Ludwe L. Sikeyi, Faria Dziike, Neil J. Coville, Edward N. Nxumalo, Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng
Summary: Waste cooking oil was converted into onion-like nanocarbons (OLNCs) through flame pyrolysis and then combined with TiO2 to form TiO2/OLNC nanocomposites using hydrothermal treatment. The mass ratio of TiO2 to OLNCs was varied, while the mass of TiO2 was kept constant. The nanocomposites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity and degradation efficiency for methyl orange due to the high adsorption efficiency of OLNCs and the hindrance of electron-hole recombination.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Lerato L. Mokoloko, Roy P. Forbes, Neil J. Coville
Summary: Since their discovery in 2004, carbon dots (CDs) have been widely used in various applications due to their fluorescent properties. However, the potential uses of CDs as catalysts and supports in catalytic reactions are still relatively unexplored. Studies have shown the advantages of using CDs in catalysis, but there are challenges associated with their stability and aggregation due to their small size.
Proceedings Paper
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng, Thomas H. Mongwe, Themba D. Ntuli, Ludwe L. Sikeyi, Neil J. Coville, Jose P. M. Serbena, Messai A. Mamo
Summary: This study investigated the use of nitrogen doped onion-like carbon/manganese oxide as a chemiresistive gas sensor for the detection of toluene. The sensitivity towards toluene was found to be 5.58x10(-4) ppm(-1) with a limit of detection of 0.4 ppm. The dynamic characterization showed a response time of 216s and a recovery time of 80s for toluene detection. These findings suggest that different carbon nanoparticles-based composites can be combined with various shaped metal oxide nanoparticles to enhance the detection of toluene using an inexpensive, user-friendly, and scalable electrochemical sensing device.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Boitumelo Makgabutlane, Manoko S. Maubane-Nkadimeng, Neil J. Coville, Sabelo D. Mhlanga
Summary: The building and construction industry, as the largest consumer of natural resources, aims to achieve sustainability by utilizing waste materials in composites. This review focuses on the application of waste plastics and coal fly ash, as well as the use of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes to enhance the properties of these composites. The enhanced waste-derived composites are lightweight and strong, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lerato L. Mokoloko, Joyce B. Matsoso, Nikolas Antonatos, Vlastimil Mazanek, Beatriz D. Moreno, Roy P. Forbes, Dean H. Barrett, Zdenek Sofer, Neil J. Coville
Summary: This study presents the application of N-doped carbon nanosheets for room temperature chemoresistive detection of methanol and ethanol. The nanosheets were made by heat treatment of N-doped carbon dots and showed good sensitivity and low detection limits for both alcohols. The composite nature and large basal area of the nanosheets facilitated easy adsorption of the analyte molecules.
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Othmane Mouane, Elias Sideras-Haddad, Edward Nkadimeng, Ryan Mckenzie, Roger Van Rensburg, Charles Sandrock, Bruce Mellado, Neil J. Coville
Summary: This study reports the enhancement of heat transfer using a commercial thermal compound after incorporating carbon nanomaterials. The results showed that the incorporation of 1% carbon nanomaterials led to the highest heat transfer performance, with a temperature drop of 2℃.
IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON NANOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)