Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Asha Yadav, Bo Fu, Stephanie Nicole Bonvicini, Linh Quy Ly, Zhitai Jia, Yujun Shi
Summary: beta-Ga2O3 nanostructures with different morphologies, including nanowires, nanosheets, and nanorods, were successfully synthesized using thermally dewetted Au nanoparticles as catalysts. The growth of the nanostructures was found to be governed by different mechanisms, with the vapor-liquid-solid mechanism governing nanowire growth and the vapor-solid mechanism occurring in the growth of nanosheets and nanorods. The as-grown beta-Ga2O3 nanostructures exhibited high purity, wide bandgap, and strong photoluminescence emission, making them promising for applications in optoelectronic devices such as tunable UV-Vis photodetectors.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
T. M. Aper, F. K. Yam, K. G. Saw, Khi Poay Beh, Khaled M. Chahrour
Summary: In this study, indium oxide nanostructured films were synthesized using hydrogen assisted atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition technique at different deposition temperatures. The films' surface morphology, crystallinity, and optical properties were characterized, and their photoelectrochemical (PEC) activity was investigated. The sample grown at 950 degrees C exhibited optimal PEC performance, with high photocurrent density, incident photon to current conversion efficiency, and applied bias to photon conversion efficiency. The superior PEC performance of the sample was attributed to the film composition, crystallinity, bandgap reduction, flat band potential, and charge carrier density.
RESULTS IN PHYSICS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Bharat Sharma, Ashutosh Sharma
Summary: In this study, thin hematite films were fabricated using LCVD method and their structure, optical, and magnetic properties were evaluated after various treatments and dopings. Annealing in N-2 atmosphere at 350 degrees C resulted in lower surface roughness and uniform surface topography, while N-doping increased surface ripples on the film. The photoconductivity mechanism of these films in different regions was also studied, providing insights for material design in various applications.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Surjit Sahoo, Gopinath Sahoo, Sang Mun Jeong, Chandra Sekhar Rout
Summary: Vertical graphene (VG) has gained attention as an electrode material for supercapacitors due to its unique properties. Progress has been made in growth and application of VG, but there are still many recent developments to be reviewed. By controlling the growth direction of graphene, its electronic band structure and bandgap can be controlled. VG exhibits superior performance in electrolyte and electron transport, making it a promising material for future energy storage devices. This review summarizes the importance of VG structure, growth methods, and strategies to enhance energy storage performance.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Takahiro Kato, Hiroyuki Nishinaka, Kazuki Shimazoe, Masahiro Yoshimoto
Summary: Epitaxial delta-Ga2O3 thin films were successfully grown on various planes of YSZ and c-plane sapphire substrates by inserting beta-Fe2O3 and bcc-In2O3 buffer layers. The growth involved reducing lattice mismatch and exploring the thermal stability of the buffer layers. Furthermore, the growth of both alpha- and delta-Ga2O3 thin films on c-plane sapphire was achieved using specific buffer layers.
PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI A-APPLICATIONS AND MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
C. Gonzalez, J. P. B. Silva, A. S. Viana, K. Gwozdz, O. Conde
Summary: In this study, we demonstrate the controllable synthesis of monolayer MoSe2 flakes with various shapes using chemical vapor deposition. We also find that the shape and size greatly affect the photoluminescence response of the MoSe2 flakes. These findings open up new possibilities for morphology-controlled monolayer MoSe2 flakes in optoelectronic and energy harvesting systems.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Fang Li, You Li, Yibin Zhao, Mingyan Liu, Erjun Kan, Qiongyu Li, Yi Wan
Summary: Graphene nanomesh (GNM) is an emerging graphene nanostructure with great potential applications. This study proposes a hydrogen-free chemical vapor deposition method to synthesize large-area GNM with symmetrical fractal patterns, providing guidance for mass production of GNM.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jiangang Xu, David J. Srolovitz, Derek Ho
Summary: This study investigates the control of MoS2 crystal morphologies through a unified spatial-temporal model and the concept of adatom concentration profile. Experimental results demonstrate that different shapes of MoS2 crystals can be synthesized by controlling growth conditions. By comparing experimental and simulation results, the significance of adatom concentration profile and its role in the crystal growth process are highlighted.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Pierre Tomasini
Summary: The silicon chemical vapor deposition process via silane is determined using classical thermodynamics, showing that a linear function of temperature controls silicon growth rates and neatly maps the response of growth rate activation energy, providing clarity to the parameter space. The study demonstrates the portability of the linear function of temperature across reactors and extracts reactor scaling factors, reducing the complex silicon deposition process to its essentials through thermodynamics.
CHEMISTRY OF MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Mohammad Reza Rahmani Taji Boyuk, Hajar Ghanbari, Abdolreza Simchi, Ali Maghsoumi
Summary: Under special conditions in seedless CVD, large-area 2D WS2 layers with disc-shaped morphology can be grown, which is attractive for the fabrication of optoelectronic devices.
MATERIALS CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Chengshan Dai, Ying Zhang, Junnan Chen, Xia Zhong, Liyun Zhang, Bingsen Zhang
Summary: This study investigates the effect of support morphology on the catalytic performance of selective hydrogenation reactions. The results show that the properties of metal nanoparticles can be modified by the nature of the support, leading to improved catalytic activity and stability.
CHEMISTRY-A EUROPEAN JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Physics, Applied
Yan Wang, Jiahe Cao, Hanzhao Song, Chuang Zhang, Zhigao Xie, Yew Hoong Wong, Chee Keong Tan
Summary: This study presents an investigation of the polarization in ε-(AlxGa1-x)(2)O-3/ε-Ga2O3 heterostructures. The results show that the spontaneous polarization increases with the increase in Al content, but the strain-induced piezoelectric polarization also increases, resulting in the total polarization remaining almost constant. Additionally, a high-density polarization-induced 2DEG can be formed at the interface of polarization reversed ε-(AlxGa1-x)(2)O-3/ε-Ga2O3.
APPLIED PHYSICS LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yao Chen, Bingchu Mei, Huiling Liu, Zaichun Sun, Huijuan Zhang
Summary: A novel deposition technique was developed to synthesize highly crystalline and controllable morphological Bi2S3 thin films. The films showed continuous surface and superior photoelectrochemical performance at a moderate synthesis temperature.
CRYSTAL GROWTH & DESIGN
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Octavian-Gabriel Simionescu, Oana Brincoveanu, Cosmin Romanitan, Silviu Vulpe, Andrei Avram
Summary: In this study, the growth process of self-sustained vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs) is comprehensively investigated. The deposition of supporting and catalyst layers, as well as the CNT growth, are analyzed using different techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray reflectivity, and scanning electron microscopy. The crystalline structure, density, thickness, roughness, and morphology of different layers, including the titanium nitride supporting layer, nickel layers, and CNTs, are studied.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jingjing Si, Jinqiu Yu, Haihu Lan, Lixin Niu, Jingrui Luo, Yantao Yu, Linyang Li, Yu Ding, Lei Fu, Mengqi Zeng
Summary: This study demonstrates a chemical potential-modulated strategy to precisely synthesize various ultrahigh-phase-purity ultrathin transition-metal boride single crystals. The ultrathin crystals exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, such as an ultrahigh Young's modulus. This research provides a platform for synthesizing ultrathin single crystals with ultrahigh phase purity and enables extensive research and applications.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Nirjhar Bhattacharyya, Uttpal Anand, Ravi Kumar, Mimosa Ghorai, Tariq Aftab, Niraj Kumar Jha, Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha, Jochen Bundschuh, Elza Bontempi, Abhijit Dey
Summary: The use of CRISPR technology allows for the modification of plants to better remediate soil contaminated with toxic metals. This technique has been successfully applied to various crops and has identified genes related to metal absorption and tolerance. However, the efficacy of CRISPR technology is influenced by multiple factors.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tamal Chowdhury, Hemal Chowdhury, Elza Bontempi, Mario Coccia, Hasan Masrur, Sadiq M. Sait, Tomonobu Senjyu
Summary: This study finds that hosting the Tokyo Summer Olympics did not lead to an increase in COVID-19 cases in Japan. The transmission dynamics were mainly driven by population density, similar to other large cities in Japan. The study provides evidence that hosting mega sporting events is safe during the pandemic if strict non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical infection control measures are maintained. The successful implementation of preventive measures during the Tokyo Summer Olympics will serve as an example for future international events.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Davide Ciniglia, Paola Cirelli, Fabjola Bilo, Alessandra Zanoletti, Antonella Cornelio, Silvana De Iuliis, Laura Eleonora Depero, Elza Bontempi, Maria Grazia Perrone, Paolo Lopinto, Marco Zonca, Laura Borgese
Summary: To prevent air pollution and achieve air quality regulations, developing analytical techniques for determining metal concentrations in aerosol particles is crucial. Total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (TXRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) are emerging as complementary techniques for elemental analysis. This study proposes a novel methodology using TXRF to characterize nebulized aerosol particles dispersion and deposition, aiming to assess their potential use as calibration samples for LIBS and TXRF analysis.
AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Uttpal Anand, Satarupa Dey, Dipannita Parial, Stefania Federici, Serena Ducoli, Nanthi. S. S. Bolan, Abhijit Dey, Elza Bontempi
Summary: Traditional wastewater treatment has focused on removing contaminants for sanitation purposes, but the issues of climate change and depletion of natural resources require methods that also convert waste into chemicals and fuels. The synergistic coupling of microalgae and bacteria in biological treatments shows promise in removing various contaminants and generating biofuels. This review examines the use of algae and bacteria in wastewater treatment and valorization, with emphasis on cell-to-cell adhesion, wastewater properties, and techniques for algae harvesting and production of various valuable products such as biodiesel, bioethanol, biohydrogen, exopolysaccarides, biofertilizers, and animal feeds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Anusha Ekanayake, Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha, Choolaka Hewawasam, Uttpal Anand, Elza Bontempi, Sudarshan Kurwadkar, Jayanta Kumar Biswas, Meththika Vithanage
Summary: The relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and the environment is bidirectional, with the environment playing a role in the transmission of the virus. The pandemic has potential environmental impacts such as water pollution, chemical contamination, increased generation of non-biodegradable waste, and an increase in single-use plastics. Sustainable solutions should be included in national preparedness strategies to address these environmental challenges.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Claudio Marchesi, Monika Rani, Stefania Federici, Ivano Alessandri, Irene Vassalini, Serena Ducoli, Laura Borgese, Annalisa Zacco, Avelino Nunez-Delgado, Elza Bontempi, Laura E. Depero
Summary: The widespread distribution of plastics and microplastics and their resistance to decay is having a negative impact on the environment. Microplastics are considered emerging contaminants of concern across all environments. Portable spectrometers coupled with chemometric tools have shown potential for polymer analysis and environmental applications. This study demonstrates the use of a Miniaturized Near-Infrared (MicroNIR) spectrometer for quantitative analysis of microplastic mixtures.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Bushra Ali, Indherjith Sakthinathan, Davide Barreca, Chiara Maccato, Joydeb Goura, Ulrich Kortz, Timothy McCormac
Summary: A Mn-III-substituted Wells-Dawson-type polyoxoanion was immobilised on a glassy carbon electrode surface using the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene). The immobilised films were characterized by electrochemical techniques and surface analysis methods. The Mn-4(P2W15)(2) showed redox activity within the polymer phase and the conducting polymer films exhibited pH-dependant redox activity and enhanced stability.
Editorial Material
Chemistry, Physical
Avelino Nunez-Delgado, Zhien Zhang, Elza Bontempi, Mario Coccia, Marco Race, Yaoyu Zhou
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Elsayed Mousa, Xianfeng Hu, Ludvig Annhagen, Guozhu Ye, Antonella Cornelio, Ario Fahimi, Elza Bontempi, Patrizia Frontera, Charlotte Badenhorst, Ana Claudia Santos, Karen Moreira, Alexandra Guedes, Bruno Valentim
Summary: This paper reports on the characterization of two grades of black mass from spent lithium-ion batteries and their behavior during heating trials. The study provides important insights for optimizing lithium-ion battery recycling processes by fully characterizing black mass samples before and after heating.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Giada Biava, Annalisa Zacco, Alessandra Zanoletti, Giampiero Pasquale Sorrentino, Claudia Capone, Antonio Princigallo, Laura Eleonora Depero, Elza Bontempi
Summary: The direct aqueous carbonation of steel slag and cement kiln dust was explored in a new pressurized reactor, aiming to identify optimal reaction conditions and promising by-products for reuse in the construction industry. A synergistic strategy for managing industrial waste and reducing the use of virgin raw materials in Lombardy, Italy, particularly Bergamo-Brescia, was proposed. Initial findings showed promising results, with argon oxygen decarburization (AOD) slag and black slag producing the best results in terms of CO2 capture efficiency.
Article
Physics, Condensed Matter
Mattia Benedet, Gian Andrea Rizzi, Davide Barreca, Alberto Gasparotto, Chiara Maccato
Summary: In this study, photoelectron spectroscopy data on gCN-containing composite systems supported on fluorine-doped tin oxide were obtained using nonmonochromatized Mg K alpha radiation. The investigated materials were prepared via a straightforward decantation route, followed by functionalization with nanostructured co-catalysts (CoO, CoFe2O4) and thermal treatment. The results, including survey scans and high-resolution spectra of different core-levels, provide valuable information for future studies in related fields.
SURFACE SCIENCE SPECTRA
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Anna Gobetti, Giovanna Cornacchia, Marco La Monica, Annalisa Zacco, Laura Eleonora Depero, Giorgio Ramorino
Summary: The reinforcement of polymers using particle fillers is a complex process influenced by the hydrodynamic effect and interfacial interactions between the polymer, filler, and interfacial region. In this study, the potential of using electric arc furnace steel slag as a filler for Nitrile-Butadiene Rubber was investigated. The slag content was found to enhance the material's capability to store and dissipate energy, with the immobilized rubber fraction around the slag particles playing a crucial role. The slag stiffened the NBR composite, and its reinforcing ability was confirmed through various models and analyses.
RESULTS IN ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Mahalaxmi Iyer, Uttpal Anand, Saranya Thiruvenkataswamy, Harysh Winster Suresh Babu, Arul Narayanasamy, Vijay Kumar Prajapati, Chandan Kumar Tiwari, Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan, Elza Bontempi, Christian Sonne, Damia Barcelo, Balachandar Vellingiri
Summary: Carcinogenic metals, particularly chromium (Cr) and its derivatives, including Cr(VI)-induced, have widespread distribution and pose a concern for adverse environmental and human health effects. They cause DNA epigenetic alterations resulting in heritable changes in gene expression. This review discusses the role of Cr(VI) in epigenetic changes, highlighting the importance of considering epigenetics as a possible mechanism underlying Cr(VI) toxicity and cell-transforming ability. More clinical and preventative measures are needed to better understand the toxicity and safeguard employees against cancer.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Giampiero Pasquale Sorrentino, Renato Guimaraes, Bruno Valentim, Elza Bontempi
Summary: The purpose of this research is to evaluate the feasibility of carbon dioxide sequestration through mineralisation using waste materials. Four different types of ashes and combustion by-products were used, and their impact on the carbonation process was analyzed. The results show that water content and pressure play a significant role in CO2 sequestration during accelerated carbonation.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Mattia Benedet, Davide Barreca, Ettore Fois, Roberta Seraglia, Gloria Tabacchi, Marco Roverso, Gioele Pagot, Cristiano Invernizzi, Alberto Gasparotto, Alexandra A. Heidecker, Alexander Poehig, Emanuela Callone, Sandra Dire, Sara Bogialli, Vito Di Noto, Chiara Maccato
Summary: The coordination sphere engineering of three heteroleptic Ni(ii) beta-diketonate-diamine adducts was studied, and it was found that the chemico-physical characteristics of the compounds directly depend on the functional groups in the diketonate ligands. Preliminary thermal CVD experiments demonstrated the suitability of the precursors for the obtainment of NiO films with flat and homogeneous surfaces.
DALTON TRANSACTIONS
(2023)
