Sample records for nano silver particles

  1. Synthesis and Oxidation of Silver Nano-particles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-01-01

    solution (20%wt propyl alcohol, 5%wt hydrochloric acid and 5%wt stannous chloride in water). Scheme 1b and c illustrate the sensitization and silver... Synthesis and Oxidation of Silver Nano-particles Hua Qi*, D. A. Alexson, O.J. Glembocki and S. M. Prokes* Electronics Science and Technology...energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) techniques. The results Quantum Dots and Nanostructures: Synthesis , Characterization, and Modeling VIII, edited by Kurt

  2. Effects of gamma irradiation and silver nano particles on microbiological characteristics of saffron, using hurdle technology.

    PubMed

    Hamid Sales, E; Motamedi Sedeh, F; Rajabifar, S

    2012-03-01

    Saffron, a plant from the Iridaceae family, is the world's most expensive spice. Gamma irradiation and silver nano particles whose uses are gradually increasing worldwide, have positive effects on preventing decay by sterilizing the microorganisms and by improving the safety without compromising the nutritional properties and sensory quality of the foods. In the present study combination effects of gamma irradiation and silver nano particles packaging on the microbial contamination of saffron were considered during storage. A combination of hurdles can ensure stability and microbial safety of foods. For this purpose, saffron samples were packaged by Poly Ethylene films that posses up to 300 ppm nano silver particles as antimicrobial agents and then irradiated in cobalt-60 irradiator (gamma cell PX30, dose rate 0.55 Gry/Sec) to 0, 1, 2,3 and 4 kGy at room temperature. The antimicrobial activities against Total Aerobic Mesophilic Bacteria, Entrobacteriace, Escherichia Coli and Clostridium Perfringines were higher in the irradiated samples, demonstrating the inhibition zone for their growth. Irradiation of the saffron samples packaged by Poly Ethylene films with nano silver particles showed the best results for decreasing microbial contamination at 2 kGy and for Poly Ethylene films without silver nano particles; it was 4 kGy.

  3. Preparation of silver nano-particles immobilized onto chitin nano-crystals and their application to cellulose paper for imparting antimicrobial activity.

    PubMed

    Li, Zhihan; Zhang, Ming; Cheng, Dong; Yang, Rendang

    2016-10-20

    Immobilized silver nano-particles (Ag NPs) possess excellent antimicrobial properties due to their unique surface characteristics. In this paper, immobilized silver nano-particles were synthesized in the presence of chitin nano-crystals (CNC) based on the Tollens mechanism (reduction of silver ion by aldehydes in the chitosan oligosaccharides (COS)) under microwave-assisted conditions. The prepared Ag NPs-loaded CNC nano-composites were then applied onto the paper surface via coating for the preparation of antibacterial paper. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed that the Ag NPs were immobilized onto the CNC. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results further revealed that the spherical Ag NPs (5-12nm) were well dispersed on the surface of CNC. The coated paper made from the Ag NPs-loaded CNC nano-composites exhibited a high effectiveness of the antibacterial activity against E. coli or S. aureus. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Using nano- and micro-particles of silver in lignin analysis

    Treesearch

    Umesh P. Agarwal; Richard S. Reiner; Sally A. Ralph

    2006-01-01

    Although there are numerous techniques available to study lignin in its various states, they all have limitations and to extract most amount of information, a number of analytical techniques have to be jointly used. We have recently started applying a new approach to lignin analysis - namely using nano- and micro-particles of silver for study of native and residual...

  5. 3-dimensional free standing micro-structures by proton beam writing of Su 8-silver nanoParticle polymeric composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Igbenehi, H.; Jiguet, S.

    2012-09-01

    Proton beam lithography a maskless direct-write lithographic technique (well suited for producing 3-Dimensional microstructures in a range of resist and semiconductor materials) is demonstrated as an effective tool in the creation of electrically conductive freestanding micro-structures in an Su 8 + Nano Silver polymer composite. The structures produced show non-ohmic conductivity and fit the percolation theory conduction model of tunneling of separated nanoparticles. Measurements show threshold switching and a change in conductivity of at least 4 orders of magnitude. The predictable range of protons in materials at a given energy is exploited in the creation of high aspect ratio, free standing micro-structures, made from a commercially available SU8 Silver nano-composite (GMC3060 form Gersteltec Inc. a negative tone photo-epoxy with added metallic nano-particles(Silver)) to create films with enhanced electrical properties when exposed and cured. Nano-composite films are directly written on with a finely focused MeV accelerated Proton particle beam. The energy loss of the incident proton beams in the target polymer nano- composite film is concentrated at the end of its range, where damage occurs; changing the chemistry of the nano-composite film via an acid initiated polymerization - creating conduction paths. Changing the energy of the incident beams provide exposed regions with different penetration and damage depth - exploited in the demonstrated cantilever microstructure.

  6. Effect of silver nano particles on flexural strength of acrylic resins.

    PubMed

    Sodagar, Ahmad; Kassaee, Mohammad Zaman; Akhavan, Azam; Javadi, Negar; Arab, Sepideh; Kharazifard, Mohammad Javad

    2012-04-01

    Poly(methyl methacrylate), PMMA, is widely used for fabrication of removable orthodontic appliances. Silver nano particles (AgNps) have been added to PMMA because of their antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of AgNps on the flexural strength of PMMA. Acrylic liquid containing 0.05% and 0.2% AgNps was prepared for two kinds of acrylic resins: Rapid Repair &Selecta Plus. Two groups without AgNps were used as control groups. For each one, flexural strength was investigated via Three Point Bending method for the 15 acrylic blocks. Two-way ANOVA, one way ANOVA and Tukey tests were used for statistical analysis. Rapid Repair without AgNps showed the highest flexural strength. Addition of 0.05% AgNps to Rapid Repair, significantly decreased its flexural strength while, continuing the addition up to 0.2% increased it nearly up to its primary level. In contrast, addition of AgNps to Selecta Plus increased its flexural strength but addition of 0.05% nano particles was more effective than 0.2%. The effect of AgNps on flexural strength of PMMA depends on several factors including the type of acrylics and the concentrations of nano particles. Copyright © 2011 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Aligned Layers of Silver Nano-Fibers.

    PubMed

    Golovin, Andrii B; Stromer, Jeremy; Kreminska, Liubov

    2012-02-01

    We describe a new dichroic polarizers made by ordering silver nano-fibers to aligned layers. The aligned layers consist of nano-fibers and self-assembled molecular aggregates of lyotropic liquid crystals. Unidirectional alignment of the layers is achieved by means of mechanical shearing. Aligned layers of silver nano-fibers are partially transparent to a linearly polarized electromagnetic radiation. The unidirectional alignment and density of the silver nano-fibers determine degree of polarization of transmitted light. The aligned layers of silver nano-fibers might be used in optics, microwave applications, and organic electronics.

  8. Nano-silver in drinking water and drinking water sources: stability and influences on disinfection by-product formation.

    PubMed

    Tugulea, A-M; Bérubé, D; Giddings, M; Lemieux, F; Hnatiw, J; Priem, J; Avramescu, M-L

    2014-10-01

    Nano-silver is increasingly used in consumer products from washing machines and refrigerators to devices marketed for the disinfection of drinking water or recreational water. The nano-silver in these products may be released, ending up in surface water bodies which may be used as drinking water sources. Little information is available about the stability of the nano-silver in sources of drinking water, its fate during drinking water disinfection processes, and its interaction with disinfection agents and disinfection by-products (DBPs). This study aims to investigate the stability of nano-silver in drinking water sources and in the finished drinking water when chlorine and chloramines are used for disinfection and to observe changes in the composition of DBPs formed when nano-silver is present in the source water. A dispersion of nano-silver particles (10 nm; PVP-coated) was used to spike untreated Ottawa River water, treated Ottawa River water, organic-free water, and a groundwater at concentrations of 5 mg/L. The diluted dispersions were kept under stirred and non-stirred conditions for up to 9 months and analyzed weekly using UV absorption to assess the stability of the nano-silver particles. In a separate experiment, Ottawa River water containing nano-silver particles (at 0.1 and 1 mg/L concentration, respectively) was disinfected by adding sodium hypochlorite (a chlorinating agent) in sufficient amounts to maintain a free chlorine residual of approximately 0.4 mg/L after 24 h. The disinfected drinking water was then quenched with ascorbic acid and analyzed for 34 neutral DBPs (trihalomethanes, haloacetonitriles, haloacetaldehydes, 1,1 dichloro-2-propanone, 1,1,1 trichloro-2-propanone, chloropicrin, and cyanogen chloride). The results were compared to the profile of DBPs obtained under the same conditions in the absence of nano-silver and in the presence of an equivalent concentration of Ag(+) ions (as AgNO3). The stability of the nano-silver dispersions in

  9. Development of CMC hydrogels loaded with silver nano-particles for medical applications.

    PubMed

    Hebeish, Ali; Hashem, M; El-Hady, M M Abd; Sharaf, S

    2013-01-30

    Innovative CMC-based hydrogels with great potentials for usage in medical area were principally synthesized as per two strategies .The first involved reaction of epichlorohydrin in alkaline medium containing silver nitrate to yield silver nano-particles (AgNPs)-loaded CMC hydrogel. While CMC acted as stabilizing for AgNPs, trisodium citrate was added to the reaction medium to assist CMC in establishing reduction of Ag(+) to AgNPs. The second strategy entailed preparation of CMC hydrogel which assists the in situ preparation of AgNPs under the same conditions. In both strategies, factors affecting the characterization of AgNPs-loaded CMC hydrogels were studied. Analysis and characterization of the so obtained hydrogels were performed through monitoring swelling behavior, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, EDX, UV-vis spectrophotometer and TEM. Antimicrobial activity of the hydrogels was examined and mechanisms involved in their synthesis were reported. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Evaluation of dose dependent antimicrobial activity of self-assembled chitosan, nano silver and chitosan-nano silver composite against several pathogens.

    PubMed

    Tareq, Foysal Kabir; Fayzunnesa, Mst; Kabir, Md Shahariar; Nuzat, Musrat

    2018-01-01

    The aim of this investigation to preparation of silver nanoparticles organized chitosan nano polymer, which effective against microbial and pathogens, when apply to liquid medium and edible food products surface, will rescue the growth of microbes. Self-assembly approach used to synthesis of silver nanoparticles and silver nanoparticles organized chitosan nano polymer. Silver nanoparticles and silver nanoparticles organized chitosan nano polymer and film characterized using Ultra-violate visible spectrometer (UV-vis), X-ray diffraction (X-ray), and Scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The crystalline structured protein capped nano silver successfully synthesized at range of 12 nm-29 nm and organized into chitosan nano polymer. Antimicrobial ingredient in liquid medium and food product surface provide to rescue oxidative change and growth of microorganism to provide higher safety. The silver nanoparticles organized chitosan nano polymer caused the death of microorganism. The materials in nano scale synthesized successfully using self-assembly method, which showed good antimicrobial properties. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Evaluation on the Presence of Nano Silver Particle in Improving a Conventional Water-based Drilling Fluid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Husin, H.; Ahmad, N.; Jamil, N.; Chyuan, O. H.; Roslan, A.

    2018-05-01

    Worldwide demand in oil and gas energy consumption has been driving many of oil and gas companies to explore new oil and gas resource field in an ultra-deep water environment. As deeper well is drilled, more problems and challenges are expected. The successful of drilling operation is highly dependent on properties of drilling fluids. As a way to operate drilling in challenging and extreme surroundings, nanotechnology with their unique properties is employed. Due to unique physicochemical, electrical, thermal, hydrodynamic properties and exceptional interaction potential of nanomaterials, nanoparticles are considered to be the most promising material of choice for smart fluid design for oil and gas field application. Throughout this paper, the effect of nano silver particle in improving a conventional water based drilling fluid was evaluated. Results showed that nano silver gave a significant improvement to the conventional water based drilling fluid in terms of its rheological properties and filtration test performance.

  12. Effect of nano silver and silver nitrate on seed yield of (Ocimum basilicum L.)

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nano silver and silver nitrate on yield of seed in basil plant. The study was carried out in a randomized block design with three replications. Results Four levels of either silver nitrate (0, 100, 200 and 300 ppm) or nano silver (0, 20, 40, and 60 ppm) were sprayed on basil plant at seed growth stage. The results showed that there was no significant difference between 100 ppm of silver nitrate and 60 ppm concentration of nano silver on the shoot silver concentration. However, increasing the concentration of silver nitrate from 100 to 300 ppm caused a decrease in seed yield. In contrast, a raise in the concentration of nano silver from 20 to 60 ppm has led to an improvement in the seed yield. Additionally, the lowest amount of seed yield was found with control plants. Conclusions Finally, with increasing level of silver nitrate, the polyphenol compound content was raised but the enhancing level of nano silver resulting in the reduction of these components. In conclusion, nano silver can be used instead of other compounds of silver. PMID:25383311

  13. Antibacterial properties of nano-silver coated PEEK prepared through magnetron sputtering.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiuju; Gan, Kang; Liu, Hong; Song, Xiaoqing; Chen, Tianjie; Liu, Chenchen

    2017-09-01

    We aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity and antibacterial properties of nano-silver-coated polyetheretherketone (PEEK) produced through magnetron sputtering and provide a theoretical basis for its use in clinical applications. The surfaces of PEEKs were coated with nano-silver at varying thicknesses (3, 6, 9, and 12nm) through magnetron sputtering technology. The resulting coated PEEK samples were classified into the following groups according to the thickness of the nano-silver coating: PEEK-3 (3nm), PEEK-6 (6nm), PEEK-9 (9nm), PEEK-12 (12nm), and PEEK control group. The surface microstructure and composition of each sample were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and energy dispersive spectrum (EDS) analysis. The water contact angle of each sample was then measured by contact angle meters. A cell counting kit (CCK-8) was used to analyze the cytotoxicity of the mouse fibroblast cells (L929) in the coated groups (n=5) and group test samples (n=6), negative control (polyethylene, PE) (n=6), and positive control group (phenol) (n=6). The antibacterial properties of the samples were tested by co-culturing Streptococcus mutans and Straphylococcus aureus. The bacteria that adhered to the surface of samples were observed by SEM. The antibacterial adhesion ability of each sample was then evaluated. SEM and AFM analysis results showed that the surfaces of control group samples were smooth but compact. Homogeneous silver nano-particles (AgNPs) and nano-silver coating were uniformly distributed on the surface of the coated group samples. Compared with the control samples, the nano-silver coated samples had a significant increase in surface roughness (P<0.05) as the thickness of their nano-silver coating increased. EDS analysis showed that not only C and O but also Ag were present on the surface of the coated samples. Moreover, the water contact angle of modified samples significantly increased after nano-silver coating modification

  14. Antimicrobial nano-silver non-woven polyethylene terephthalate fabric via an atmospheric pressure plasma deposition process

    PubMed Central

    Deng, Xiaolong; Yu Nikiforov, Anton; Coenye, Tom; Cools, Pieter; Aziz, Gaelle; Morent, Rino; De Geyter, Nathalie; Leys, Christophe

    2015-01-01

    An antimicrobial nano-silver non-woven polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric has been prepared in a three step process. The fabrics were first pretreated by depositing a layer of organosilicon thin film using an atmospheric pressure plasma system, then silver nano-particles (AgNPs) were incorporated into the fabrics by a dipping-dry process, and finally the nano-particles were covered by a second organosilicon layer of 10-50 nm, which acts as a barrier layer. Different surface characterization techniques like SEM and XPS have been implemented to study the morphology and the chemical composition of the nano-silver fabrics. Based on these techniques, a uniform immobilization of AgNPs in the PET matrix has been observed. The antimicrobial activity of the treated fabrics has also been tested using P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and C. albicans. It reveals that the thickness of the barrier layer has a strong effect on the bacterial reduction of the fabrics. The durability and stability of the AgNPs on the fabrics has also been investigated in a washing process. By doing so, it is confirmed that the barrier layer can effectively prevent the release of AgNPs and that the thickness of the barrier layer is an important parameter to control the silver ions release. PMID:25951432

  15. The role of silver nano-particles and silver thiosulfate on the longevity of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) flowers.

    PubMed

    Hashemabadi, Davood

    2014-07-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of silver nano-particles (SNP) and silver thiosulfate (STS) in extending the vase life of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L. cv. 'Tempo') flowers. Pulse treatments of SNP @ 0, 5, 10 and 15 mg l(-1) and STS @ 0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mM were administered to carnation flowers for 24 hr. The longest vase life (16.1 days) was observed in flowers treated with 15 mg l(-1) of SNP + 0.2 mM STS. The least chlorophyll was destroyed in flowers treated with 15 mg I(-1) of SNP + 0.3 mM STS. Our findings showed that the 15 mg l(-1) SNP treatment inhibited bacterial growth in the preservative solution. The control flowers bloomed faster than the treated flowers. The maximum peroxidase activity and the minimum lipid peroxidation were obtained in cut flowers that were treated with 15 mg l(-1) of SNP and 0.3 mM STS. Overall, results of the study revealed that SNP and STS treatment extended the longevity of cut carnation 'Tempo' flowers by reducing oxidative stress, improving anti-oxidant system, reducing bacterial populations and delaying flowering.

  16. Nano silver diffusion behaviour on conductive polymer during doping process for high voltage application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohammad, A.; Mahmood, A.; Chin, K. T.; Danquah, M. K.; van Stratan, S.

    2017-06-01

    Conductive polymer had opened a new era of engineering for microelectronics and semiconductor applications. However, it is still a challenge for high voltage applications due to lower electrical conductivity compare to metals. This results tremendous energy losses during transmission and restricts its usage. In order to address such problem a novel method was investigated using nano silver particle doped iodothiophene since silver is the highest electrical conductive material. The experiments were carried out to study the organometallic diffusion behaviour of nanosilver doped iodothiophene with different concentration of iodothiophene. Five different mixing ratio between nanosilver and the solution of iodothiophene dissolved in diethyl ether were used which are 1:1.25, 1:1.5, 1:2.5, 1:3 and l:5. It was revealed that there is an effective threshold concentration of which the nano silver evenly distributed and there was no coagulation observed. These parameters laid the foundation of better doping process between the nano silver and the polymer significantly which would contribute developing conductive polymer towards high voltage application for industries that are vulnerable to corrosive environment.

  17. State-Of-The-Science Review: Everything NanoSilver and More

    EPA Science Inventory

    Silver has been known to be a potent antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent, but in recent years, the use of silver as a biocide in solution, suspension, and especially in nano-particulate form has experienced a dramatic revival. Due to the properties of silver at the nano...

  18. Effect of nano-silver and boric acid on extending the vase life of cut rose (Rosa hybrida L.).

    PubMed

    Hashemabadi, Davood; Liavali, Mahbanoo Hoseinzadeh; Kaviani, Behzad; Mousavi, Meysam; Keyghobadi, Saghi; Zahiri, Samaneh

    2014-09-01

    Silver nano-particles (2-5 nm diam.), as antimicrobial agent and boric acid, as ethylene production inhibitor are used for enhancing the quality and vase life of cut flowers. In the present study the effects of a preservative solution containing nano-silver and boric acid on some traits of cut rose (Rosa hybrida L. cv. Yellow Island) including vase life, ethylene production, dry weight percentage, chlorophyll content, flower opening index, beta-carotene of petals and the number of basal stem end bacteria were investigated. The results showed that the effect of nano-silver and boric acid as either solitary or in combination with each other were significant (p < or = 0.01) on vase life, ethylene production and beta-carotene pigment. The effect of nano-silver on the number of bacteria on the end of stem was significant (p < or = 0.01). The highest cut flower longevity (9.69 day) was obtained in pulse-treated flowers with 100 mg l(-1) boric acid. The least ethylene production (0.59 nl(-1) g(-1) h(-1)) was observed in cut rose treated with 100 mg l(-1) boric acid along with 5 mg l(-1) nano-silver. The lowest number of bacteria in the end of stem was calculated in cut flowers treated with the highest concentrations of boric acid (300 mg l(-1)) and nano-silver (20 mg l(-1)).

  19. Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to predict CI engine parameters fueled with nano-particles additive to diesel fuel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghanbari, M.; Najafi, G.; Ghobadian, B.; Mamat, R.; Noor, M. M.; Moosavian, A.

    2015-12-01

    This paper studies the use of adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to predict the performance parameters and exhaust emissions of a diesel engine operating on nanodiesel blended fuels. In order to predict the engine parameters, the whole experimental data were randomly divided into training and testing data. For ANFIS modelling, Gaussian curve membership function (gaussmf) and 200 training epochs (iteration) were found to be optimum choices for training process. The results demonstrate that ANFIS is capable of predicting the diesel engine performance and emissions. In the experimental step, Carbon nano tubes (CNT) (40, 80 and 120 ppm) and nano silver particles (40, 80 and 120 ppm) with nanostructure were prepared and added as additive to the diesel fuel. Six cylinders, four-stroke diesel engine was fuelled with these new blended fuels and operated at different engine speeds. Experimental test results indicated the fact that adding nano particles to diesel fuel, increased diesel engine power and torque output. For nano-diesel it was found that the brake specific fuel consumption (bsfc) was decreased compared to the net diesel fuel. The results proved that with increase of nano particles concentrations (from 40 ppm to 120 ppm) in diesel fuel, CO2 emission increased. CO emission in diesel fuel with nano-particles was lower significantly compared to pure diesel fuel. UHC emission with silver nano-diesel blended fuel decreased while with fuels that contains CNT nano particles increased. The trend of NOx emission was inverse compared to the UHC emission. With adding nano particles to the blended fuels, NOx increased compared to the net diesel fuel. The tests revealed that silver & CNT nano particles can be used as additive in diesel fuel to improve combustion of the fuel and reduce the exhaust emissions significantly.

  20. Effect of Ozone Treatment on Nano-Sized Silver Sulfide in Wastewater Effluent.

    PubMed

    Thalmann, Basilius; Voegelin, Andreas; von Gunten, Urs; Behra, Renata; Morgenroth, Eberhard; Kaegi, Ralf

    2015-09-15

    Silver nanoparticles used in consumer products are likely to be released into municipal wastewater. Transformation reactions, most importantly sulfidation, lead to the formation of nanoscale silver sulfide (nano-Ag2S) particles. In wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), ozonation can enhance the effluent quality by eliminating organic micropollutants. The effect of ozonation on the fate of nano-Ag2S, however, is currently unknown. In this study, we investigate the interaction of ozone with nano-Ag2S and evaluate the effect of ozonation on the short-term toxicity of WWTP effluent spiked with nano-Ag2S. The oxidation of nano-Ag2S by ozone resulted in a stoichiometric factor (number of moles of ozone required to oxidize one mole of sulfide to sulfate) of 2.91, which is comparable to the results obtained for the reaction of bisulfide (HS(-)) with ozone. The second-order rate constant for the reaction of nano-Ag2S with ozone (k = 3.1 × 10(4) M(-1) s(-1)) is comparable to the rate constant of fast-reacting micropollutants. Analysis of the ozonation products of nano-Ag2S by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) revealed that ozonation dominantly led to the formation of silver chloride in WWTP effluent. After ozonation of the Ag2S-spiked effluent, the short-term toxicity for the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii increased and reached EC50 values comparable to Ag(+). This study thus reveals that ozone treatment of WWTP effluent results in the oxidation of Ag2S and, hence, an increase of the Ag toxicity in the effluent, which may become relevant at elevated Ag concentrations.

  1. A review on preparation of silver nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haider, Adawiya J.; Haider, Mohammad J.; Mehde, Mohammad S.

    2018-05-01

    The term "nano particle" (NP) refers to particle diameter in nanometers in size. Nanoparticles contain a small number of constituent atoms or molecules that differ from the properties inherent in their bulk counterparts, found in various forms such as spherical, triangular, cubic, pentagonal, rod-shaped, shells, elliptical and so on. In this chapter, it has been presented the theoretical concepts of the preparation of AgNPS as powders and collide nanoparticles, techniques of preparation with their characterization (morphology, sign charge and potential value, particle distribution ….etc.). Also, included unique properties of AgNPS that are different from those of their bulk materials like: High surface area to volume ratio effects Quantization of electronic and vibration properties.

  2. Laser direct synthesis and patterning of silver nano/microstructures on a polymer substrate.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yi-Kai; Lee, Ming-Tsang

    2014-08-27

    This study presents a novel approach for the rapid fabrication of conductive nano/microscale metal structures on flexible polymer substrate (polyimide). Silver film is simultaneously synthesized and patterned on the polyimide substrate using an advanced continuous wave (CW) laser direct writing technology and a transparent, particle-free reactive silver ion ink. The location and shape of the resulting silver patterns are written by a laser beam from a digitally controlled micromirror array device. The silver patterns fabricated by this laser direct synthesis and patterning (LDSP) process exhibit the remarkably low electrical resistivity of 2.1 μΩ cm, which is compatible to the electrical resistivity of bulk silver. This novel LDSP process requires no vacuum chamber or photomasks, and the steps needed for preparation of the modified reactive silver ink are simple and straightforward. There is none of the complexity and instability associated with the synthesis of the nanoparticles that are encountered for the conventional laser direct writing technology which involves nanoparticle sintering process. This LDSP technology is an advanced method of nano/microscale selective metal patterning on flexible substrates that is fast and environmentally benign and shows potential as a feasible process for the roll-to-roll manufacturing of large area flexible electronic devices.

  3. Silver nano fabrication using leaf disc of Passiflora foetida Linn

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lade, Bipin D.; Patil, Anita S.

    2017-06-01

    The main purpose of the experiment is to develop a greener low cost SNP fabrication steps using factories of secondary metabolites from Passiflora leaf extract. Here, the leaf extraction process is omitted, and instead a leaf disc was used for stable SNP fabricated by optimizing parameters such as a circular leaf disc of 2 cm (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) instead of leaf extract and grade of pH (7, 8, 9, 11). The SNP synthesis reaction is tried under room temperature, sun, UV and dark condition. The leaf disc preparation steps are also discussed in details. The SNP obtained using (1 mM: 100 ml AgNO3+ singular leaf disc: pH 9, 11) is applied against featured room temperature and sun condition. The UV spectroscopic analysis confirms that sun rays synthesized SNP yields stable nano particles. The FTIR analysis confirms a large number of functional groups such as alkanes, alkyne, amines, aliphatic amine, carboxylic acid; nitro-compound, alcohol, saturated aldehyde and phenols involved in reduction of silver salt to zero valent ions. The leaf disc mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles, minimizes leaf extract preparation step and eligible for stable SNP synthesis. The methods sun and room temperature based nano particles synthesized within 10 min would be use certainly for antimicrobial activity.

  4. Ultra-low temperature curable nano-silver conductive adhesive for piezoelectric composite material

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Chao; Liao, Qingwei; Zhou, Xingli; Wang, Likun; Zhong, Chao; Zhang, Di

    2018-01-01

    Limited by the low thermal resistance of composite material, ultra-low temperature curable conductive silver adhesive with curing temperature less than 100 °C needed urgently for the surface conduction treatment of piezoelectric composite material. An ultra-low temperature curable nano-silver conductive adhesive with high adhesion strength for the applications of piezoelectric composite material was investigated. The crystal structure of cured adhesive, SEM/EDS analysis, thermal analysis, adhesive properties and conductive properties of different content of nano-silver filler or micron-silver doping samples were studied. The results show that with 60 wt.% nano-silver filler the ultra-low temperature curable conductive silver adhesive had the relatively good conductivity as volume resistivity of 2.37 × 10-4 Ω cm, and good adhesion strength of 5.13 MPa. Minor micron-doping (below 15 wt.%) could improve conductivity, but would decrease other properties. The ultra-low temperature curable nano-silver conductive adhesive could successfully applied to piezoelectric composite material.

  5. Validation and sensitivity of the FINE Bayesian network for forecasting aquatic exposure to nano-silver.

    PubMed

    Money, Eric S; Barton, Lauren E; Dawson, Joseph; Reckhow, Kenneth H; Wiesner, Mark R

    2014-03-01

    The adaptive nature of the Forecasting the Impacts of Nanomaterials in the Environment (FINE) Bayesian network is explored. We create an updated FINE model (FINEAgNP-2) for predicting aquatic exposure concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) by combining the expert-based parameters from the baseline model established in previous work with literature data related to particle behavior, exposure, and nano-ecotoxicology via parameter learning. We validate the AgNP forecast from the updated model using mesocosm-scale field data and determine the sensitivity of several key variables to changes in environmental conditions, particle characteristics, and particle fate. Results show that the prediction accuracy of the FINEAgNP-2 model increased approximately 70% over the baseline model, with an error rate of only 20%, suggesting that FINE is a reliable tool to predict aquatic concentrations of nano-silver. Sensitivity analysis suggests that fractal dimension, particle diameter, conductivity, time, and particle fate have the most influence on aquatic exposure given the current knowledge; however, numerous knowledge gaps can be identified to suggest further research efforts that will reduce the uncertainty in subsequent exposure and risk forecasts. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Highly Conductive Nano-Silver Circuits by Inkjet Printing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Dongbin; Wu, Minqiang

    2018-06-01

    Inkjet technology has become popular in the field of printed electronics due to its superior properties such as simple processes and printable complex patterns. Electrical conductivity of the circuits is one of the key factors in measuring the performance of printed electronics, which requires great material properties and a manufactured process. With excellent conductivity and ductility, silver is an ideal material as the wire connecting components. This review summarizes the progress of conductivity studies on inkjet printed nano-silver lines, including ink composition and nanoparticle morphology, deposition of nano-silver lines with uniform and high aspect ratios, sintering mechanisms and alternative methods of thermal sintering. Finally, the research direction on inkjet printed electronics is proposed.

  7. Rapid laser sintering of metal nano-particles inks.

    PubMed

    Ermak, Oleg; Zenou, Michael; Toker, Gil Bernstein; Ankri, Jonathan; Shacham-Diamand, Yosi; Kotler, Zvi

    2016-09-23

    Fast sintering is of importance in additive metallization processes and especially on sensitive substrates. This work explores the mechanisms which set limits to the laser sintering rate of metal nano-particle inks. A comparison of sintering behavior of three different ink compositions with laser exposure times from micro-seconds to seconds reveals the dominant factor to be the organic content (OC) in the ink. With a low OC silver ink, of 2% only, sintering time falls below 100 μs with resistivity <×4 bulk silver. Still shorter exposure times result in line delamination and deformation with a similar outcome when the OC is increased.

  8. Multi-functional nano silver: A novel disruptive and theranostic agent for pathogenic organisms in real-time

    PubMed Central

    Gopinath, Ponnusamy Manogaran; Ranjani, Anandan; Dhanasekaran, Dharumadurai; Thajuddin, Nooruddin; Archunan, Govindaraju; Akbarsha, Mohammad Abdulkader; Gulyás, Balázs; Padmanabhan, Parasuraman

    2016-01-01

    The present study was aimed at evaluating the fluorescence property, sporicidal potency against Bacillus and Clostridium endospores, and surface disinfecting ability of biogenic nano silver. The nano silver was synthesized using an actinobacterial cell-filtrate. The fluorescence property as well as imaging facilitator potency of this nano silver was verified adopting spectrofluorometer along with fluorescent and confocal laser scanning microscope wherein strong emission and bright green fluorescence, respectively, on the entire spore surface was observed. Subsequently, the endospores of B. subtilis, B. cereus, B. amyloliquefaciens, C. perfringens and C. difficile were treated with physical sporicides, chemical sporicides and nano silver, in which the nano silver brought about pronounced inhibition even at a very low concentration. Finally, the environmental surface-sanitizing potency of nano silver was investigated adopting cage co-contamination assay, wherein vital organs of mice exposed to the nano silver-treated cage did not show any signs of pathological lesions, thus signifying the ability of nano silver to completely disinfect the spore or reduce the count required for infection. Taken these observations together, we have shown the multi-functional biological properties of the nano silver, synthesized using an actinobacterial cell-filtrate, which could be of application in advanced diagnostics, biomedical engineering and therapeutics in the near future. PMID:27666290

  9. Nano-structured surface plasmon resonance sensor for sensitivity enhancement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jae-Ho; Kim, Hyo-Sop; Kim, Jin-Ho; Choi, Sung-Wook; Cho, Yong-Jin

    2008-08-01

    A new nano-structured SPR sensor was devised to improve its sensitivity. Nano-scaled silica particles were used as the template to fabricate nano-structure. The surface of the silica particles was modified with thiol group and a single layer of the modified silica particles was attached on the gold or silver thin film using Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) method. Thereafter, gold or silver was coated on the template by an e-beam evaporator. Finally, the nano-structured surface with basin-like shape was obtained after removing the silica particles by sonication. Applying the new developed SPR sensor to a model food of alcoholic beverage, the sensitivities for the gold and silver nano-structured sensors, respectively, had 95% and 126% higher than the conventional one.

  10. High fluorescence emission silver nano particles coated with poly (styrene-g-soybean oil) graft copolymers: Antibacterial activity and polymerization kinetics.

    PubMed

    Hazer, Baki; Kalaycı, Özlem A

    2017-05-01

    Autoxidation of poly unsaturated fatty acids makes negative effect on foods. In this work, this negative effect was turned to a great advantage using autoxidized soybean oil as a macroperoxide nanocomposite initiator containing silver nano particles in free radical polymerization of vinyl monomers. The synthesis of soybean oil macro peroxide was carried out by exposing soybean oil to air oxygen with the presence of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) at room temperature. Autoxidized soybean oil macroperoxide containing silver nanoparticles (Agsbox) successfully initiated the free radical polymerization of styrene in order to obtain Polystyrene (PS)-g-soybean oil graft copolymer containing Ag NPs. Both autoxidized soybean oil and PS-g-sbox with Ag NPs showed a surface plasmon resonance and high fluorescence emission. Overall rate constant (K) of styrene polymerization initiated by autoxidized soybean oil macroperoxide with Ag NPs was found to be K=1.95.10 -4 Lmol -1 s -1 at 95°C. Antibacterial efficiency was observed in the PS-g-soybean oil graft copolymer film samples containing Ag NPs. 1 H NMR and GPC techniques were used for the structural analysis of the fractionated polymeric oils. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Bactericidal assessment of nano-silver on emerging and re-emerging human pathogens.

    PubMed

    Anuj, Samir A; Gajera, Harsukh P; Hirpara, Darshna G; Golakiya, Baljibhai A

    2018-04-24

    With the threat of the growing number of bacteria resistant to antibiotics, the re-emergence of previously deadly infections and the emergence of new infections, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic agent. Silver in the nano form, which is being used increasingly as antibacterial agents, may extend its antibacterial application to emerging and re-emerging multidrug-resistant pathogens, the main cause of nosocomial diseases worldwide. In the present study, a completely bottom up method to prepare green nano-silver was used. To explore the action of nano-silver on emerging Bacillus megaterium MTCC 7192 and re-emerging Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 741 pathogenic bacteria, the study includes an analysis of the bacterial membrane damage through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) as well as alternation of zeta potential and intracellular leakages. In this work, we observed genuine bactericidal property of nano-silver as compare to broad spectrum antibiotics against emerging and re-emerging mode. After being exposed to nano-silver, the membrane becomes scattered from their original ordered arrangement based on SEM observation. Moreover, our results also suggested that alternation of zeta potential enhanced membrane permeability, and beyond a critical point, it leads to cell death. The leakages of intracellular constituents were confirmed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In conclusion, the combine results suggested that at a specific dose, nano-silver may destroy the structure of bacterial membrane and depress its activity, which causes bacteria to die eventually. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  12. Electrical conductivity modification using silver nano particles of Jatropha Multifida L. and Pterocarpus Indicus w. extracts films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Diantoro, Markus, E-mail: markus.diantoro.fmipa@um.ac.id; Hidayati, Nisfi Nahari Sani; Latifah, Rodatul

    Natural polymers can be extracted from leaf or stem of plants. Pterocarpus Indicus W. (PIW) and Jatropha Multifida L. (JIL) plants are good candidate as natural polymer sources. PIW and JIW polymers contain chemical compound so-called flavonoids which has C{sub 6}-C{sub 3}-C{sub 6} carbons conjugated configuration. The renewable type of polymer as well as their abundancy of flavonoid provide us to explore their physical properties. A number of research have been reported related to broad synthesis method and mechanical properties. So far there is no specific report of electrical conductivity associated to PIW and JIL natural polymers. In order tomore » obtain electrical conductivity and its crystallinity of the extracted polymer films, it was induced on them a various fraction of silver nano particles. The film has been prepared by means of spin coating method on nickel substrate. It was revealed that FTIR spectra confirm the existing of rutine flavonoid. The crystallinity of the samples increase from 0.66%, to 4.11% associated to the respective various of silver fractions of 0.1 M to 0.5 M. SEM images show that there are some grains of silver in the film. The nature of electric conductivity increases a long with the addition of silver. The electrical conductivity increase significantly from 3.22 S/cm, to 542.85 S/cm. On the other hand, PIW films also shows similar trends that increase of Ag induce the increase its crystallinity as well as its electrical conductivity at semiconducting level. This result opens a prospective research and application of the green renewable polymer as optoelectronic materials.« less

  13. Electrical conductivity modification using silver nano particles of Jatropha Multifida L. and Pterocarpus Indicus w. extracts films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Diantoro, Markus; Hidayati, Nisfi Nahari Sani; Latifah, Rodatul; Fuad, Abdulloh; Nasikhudin, Sujito, Hidayat, Arif

    2016-03-01

    Natural polymers can be extracted from leaf or stem of plants. Pterocarpus Indicus W. (PIW) and Jatropha Multifida L. (JIL) plants are good candidate as natural polymer sources. PIW and JIW polymers contain chemical compound so-called flavonoids which has C6-C3-C6 carbons conjugated configuration. The renewable type of polymer as well as their abundancy of flavonoid provide us to explore their physical properties. A number of research have been reported related to broad synthesis method and mechanical properties. So far there is no specific report of electrical conductivity associated to PIW and JIL natural polymers. In order to obtain electrical conductivity and its crystallinity of the extracted polymer films, it was induced on them a various fraction of silver nano particles. The film has been prepared by means of spin coating method on nickel substrate. It was revealed that FTIR spectra confirm the existing of rutine flavonoid. The crystallinity of the samples increase from 0.66%, to 4.11% associated to the respective various of silver fractions of 0.1 M to 0.5 M. SEM images show that there are some grains of silver in the film. The nature of electric conductivity increases a long with the addition of silver. The electrical conductivity increase significantly from 3.22 S/cm, to 542.85 S/cm. On the other hand, PIW films also shows similar trends that increase of Ag induce the increase its crystallinity as well as its electrical conductivity at semiconducting level. This result opens a prospective research and application of the green renewable polymer as optoelectronic materials.

  14. Identification of Silver and Palladium in Irradiated TRISO Coated Particles of the AGR-1 Experiment

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    van Rooyen, Y. J.; Lillo, T. M.; Wu, Y. Q.

    2014-03-01

    Evidence of the release of certain metallic fission product through intact tristructural isotropic (TRISO) particles has been seen for decades around the world, as well as in the recent AGR-1 experiment at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). However, understanding the basic mechanism of transport is still lacking. This understanding is important because the TRISO coating is part of the high temperature gas reactor functional containment and critical for the safety strategy for licensing purposes. Our approach to identify fission products in irradiated AGR-1 TRISO fuel using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) and Energy Filtered TEM (EFTEM),more » has led to first-of-a-kind data at the nano-scale indicating the presence of silver at triple points and grain boundaries of the SiC layer in the TRISO particle. Cadmium was also found in the triple junctions. In this initial study, the silver was only identified in SiC grain boundaries and triple points on the edge of the SiC-IPyC interface up to a depth of approximately 0.5 um. Palladium was identified as the main constituent of micron-sized precipitates present at the SiC grain boundaries. Additionally spherical nano-sized palladium rich precipitates were found inside the SiC grains. These nano-sized Pd precipitates were distributed up to a depth of 5 um away from the SiC-IPyC interlayer. No silver was found in the center of the micron-sized fission product precipitates using these techniques, although silver was found on the outer edge of one of the Pd-U-Si containing precipitates which was facing the IPyC layer. Only Pd-U containing precipitates were identified in the IPyC layer and no silver was identified in the IPyC layer. The identification of silver alongside the grain boundaries and the findings of Pd alongside grain boundaries as well as inside the grains, provide significant knowledge for understanding silver and palladium transport in TIRSO fuel, which

  15. Thermal conductivity enhancement of nano-silver particles dispersed ethylene glycol based nanofluids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khamliche, Touria; Khamlich, Saleh; Doyle, Terry B.; Makinde, Daniel; Maaza, Malik

    2018-03-01

    This contribution reports on the thermal conductivity enhancement of nano-silver particles (nAgPs) based nanofluids with various nAgPs’ shapes in view of their potential application in concentrated solar power systems. More accurately, the thermal conductivity behaviour of suspensions of nAgPs dispersed ethylene glycol (nAgPs:EG), prepared by a simple and cost effective chemical synthesis method, is compared with a theoretical prediction. The effect of aging time on the shape of the dispersed nAgPs was clearly observed by the structural, optical and morphological analysis. Spherically shaped and Ag nanowires (AgNWs) with high yields were observed when the nAgPs was aged for 1 and 5 h, respectively. The observed AgNWs showed high aspect ratio (≥200) when EG and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were used as reductant and structure-directing agents. The thermal conductivity measurements on nAgPs:EG nanofuids with different volume fractions of nAgPs were conducted in a temperature range 25 < T < 50 °C using a guarded hot plate (GHP) method. The thermal conductivity manifested a generally monotonic increase with temperature and an approximately linear relationship with the volume fraction of the nAgPs. Particularly, an enhancement of up to 23% was observed when the nanofluid was aged for 5 h and AgNWs were dominant.

  16. The effect of nano-silver packaging in increasing the shelf life of nuts: An in vitro model

    PubMed Central

    Tavakoli, Hamidreza; Rastegar, Hossein; Taherian, Mahdi; Samadi, Mohammad; Rostami, Hossein

    2017-01-01

    Nano packaging is currently one of the most important topics in food packaging technologies. The aim of the application of this technology in food packaging is increasing shelf life of foods by preventing internal and external corruption and microbial contaminations. Use of silver nanoparticles in food packaging has recently attracted much attention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nano-silver packaging in increasing the shelf life packages of nuts in an In vitro model. In this experimental study, the effects of different nano-silver concentrations (0, 1, 2 and 3 percent) on biological and chemical properties of 432 samples of nuts including walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds and pistachios were evaluated during 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 months. In most samples, different concentrations of nano-silver (1, 2 and 3 %) significantly reduced total microbial count, mold and coliform counts compared to control group and the 3% nano-silver concentration was more effective than other concentrations (P<0.05). Moreover, using this packaging yielded an antioxidant effect especially when 2% and 3% nano-silver concentrations were used. Nano-silver also prevented growth of mold and so prevented aflatoxin production in all treatment groups. Results of chemical and biological tests showed that the silver nanoparticles had a significant effect on increasing the shelf life of nuts. The highest shelf life belonged to pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts with 20, 19, 18 and 18 months, respectively. The shelf life was associated with amount of silver nanoparticles. The highest antimicrobial activity was observed when 3% nano-silver concentration was used in pistachios. The shelf life of control groups in similar storage conditions were calculated for an average of 13 months. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of nano-silver packing in increasing shelf life of nuts. Hence, use of nano-silver packaging in food industry

  17. The effect of nano-silver packaging in increasing the shelf life of nuts: An in vitro model.

    PubMed

    Tavakoli, Hamidreza; Rastegar, Hossein; Taherian, Mahdi; Samadi, Mohammad; Rostami, Hossein

    2017-10-20

    Nano packaging is currently one of the most important topics in food packaging technologies. The aim of the application of this technology in food packaging is increasing shelf life of foods by preventing internal and external corruption and microbial contaminations. Use of silver nanoparticles in food packaging has recently attracted much attention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nano-silver packaging in increasing the shelf life packages of nuts in an In vitro model. In this experimental study, the effects of different nano-silver concentrations (0, 1, 2 and 3 percent) on biological and chemical properties of 432 samples of nuts including walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds and pistachios were evaluated during 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 months. In most samples, different concentrations of nano-silver (1, 2 and 3 %) significantly reduced total microbial count, mold and coliform counts compared to control group and the 3% nano-silver concentration was more effective than other concentrations (P<0.05). Moreover, using this packaging yielded an antioxidant effect especially when 2% and 3% nano-silver concentrations were used. Nano-silver also prevented growth of mold and so prevented aflatoxin production in all treatment groups. Results of chemical and biological tests showed that the silver nanoparticles had a significant effect on increasing the shelf life of nuts. The highest shelf life belonged to pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts with 20, 19, 18 and 18 months, respectively. The shelf life was associated with amount of silver nanoparticles. The highest antimicrobial activity was observed when 3% nano-silver concentration was used in pistachios. The shelf life of control groups in similar storage conditions were calculated for an average of 13 months. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of nano-silver packing in increasing shelf life of nuts. Hence, use of nano-silver packaging in food industry

  18. Study of the effects of Shockwaves on Nano fluids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shreekhar; Akhil, Mohan; Ram, Sai; Gopaiah, Venkata; Koundinya, Sandeep; Nagaraja, S. R.

    2018-02-01

    Nanofluids are fluids with nanoparticles dispersed in them. Due to the presence of Nano particles, these fluids exhibit unique properties that can used in various applications such as heat exchangers and in medical fields. However, due to agglomeration, the size of these particle increases, reducing their efficiency. In order to break the agglomeration, we are passing shockwaves in the fluid. Shockwaves theoretically carry energy which can be used to break the agglomerating particles. In this paper, silver nanoparticles were synthesized using silver nitrate. Tri sodium citrate was used as the reducing agent. Shock waves were passed to the fluid containing silver Nano particles. The changes in the Nano fluid was measured by a UV-Vis Spectrophotometer. With each shock passed, the fluid’s absorbance and wavelength peak was measured and compared with Nano fluid without shock.

  19. Optical Absorption Spectra of Nuclear Filters Modified by Deposition of Silver Nano- and Microparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smolyanskii, A. S.; Kozlova, N. V.; Zheltova, A. V.; Aksyutina, A. S.; Shvedov, A. S.; Lakeev, S. G.

    2015-07-01

    Light scattering and interference patterns are studied in the optical absorption spectra of nuclear filters based on polyethylene terephthalate fi lms modifi ed by dry aerosol deposition of silver nano- and microparticles. Surface plasmon polaritons and localized plasmons formed by the passage of light through porous silver films are found to have an effect on the diffraction and interference modes. The thickness of silver nano- and microparticle coatings on the surface of the nuclear fi lters was determined from the shift in the interference patterns in the optical absorption spectra of the modified nuclear filters relative to the original nuclear filters. A correlation was found between the estimated coating thickness and the average surface roughness of the nuclear filters modified by layers of silver nano- and microparticles.

  20. Sensing the facet orientation in silver nano-plates using scanning Kelvin probe microscopy in air

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdellatif, M. H.; Salerno, M.; Polovitsyn, Anatolii; Marras, Sergio; De Angelis, Francesco

    2017-05-01

    The work function of nano-materials is important for a full characterization of their electronic properties. Because the band alignment, band bending and electronic noise are very sensitive to work function fluctuations, the dependence of the work function of nano-scale crystals on facet orientation can be a critical issue in optimizing optoelectronic devices based on these materials. We used scanning Kelvin probe microscopy to assess the local work function on samples of silver nano-plates at sub-micrometric spatial resolution. With the appropriate choice of the substrate and based on statistical analysis, it was possible to distinguish the surface potential of the different facets of silver nano-plates even if the measurements were done in ambient conditions without the use of vacuum. A phenomenological model was used to calculate the differences of facet work function of the silver nano-plates and the corresponding shift in Fermi level. This theoretical prediction and the experimentally observed difference in surface potential on the silver nano-plates were in good agreement. Our results show the possibility to sense the nano-crystal facets by appropriate choice of the substrate in ambient conditions.

  1. Effect of nano-silver hydrogel coating film on deep partial thickness scald model of rabbit.

    PubMed

    Xi, Peng; Li, Yan; Ge, Xiaojin; Liu, Dandan; Miao, Mingsan

    2018-05-01

    Observing the effect of nano-silver hydrogel coating film on deep partial thickness scald model of rabbit. We prepared boiling water scalded rabbits with deep II degree scald models and applied high, medium and low doses of nano-silver hydrogel coating film for different time and area. Then we compared the difference of burned paper weight before administration and after administration model burns, burn local skin irritation points infection, skin crusting and scabs from the time, and the impact of local skin tissue morphology. Rabbits deep II degree burn model successful modeling; on day 12, 18, high, medium and low doses of nano-silver hydrogel coating film significantly reduced skin irritation of rabbits infected with the integral value ( P  < 0.01, P  < 0.05); high, medium and low doses of nano-silver hydrogel coating film group significantly decreased skin irritation, infection integral value ( P  < 0.01, P  < 0.05); high, medium and low doses of nano-silver hydrogel coating film significantly reduced film rabbits' scalded skin crusting time ( P  < 0.01), significantly shortened the rabbit skin burns from the scab time ( P  < 0.01), and significantly improved the treatment of skin diseases in rabbits scald model change ( P  < 0.01, P  < 0.05). The nano-silver hydrogel coating film on the deep partial thickness burns has a significant therapeutic effect; external use has a significant role in wound healing.

  2. Electrical wire explosion process of copper/silver hybrid nano-particle ink and its sintering via flash white light to achieve high electrical conductivity.

    PubMed

    Chung, Wan-Ho; Hwang, Yeon-Taek; Lee, Seung-Hyun; Kim, Hak-Sung

    2016-05-20

    In this work, combined silver/copper nanoparticles were fabricated by the electrical explosion of a metal wire. In this method, a high electrical current passes through the metal wire with a high voltage. Consequently, the metal wire evaporates and metal nanoparticles are formed. The diameters of the silver and copper nanoparticles were controlled by changing the voltage conditions. The fabricated silver and copper nano-inks were printed on a flexible polyimide (PI) substrate and sintered at room temperature via a flash light process, using a xenon lamp and varying the light energy. The microstructures of the sintered silver and copper films were observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM). To investigate the crystal phases of the flash-light-sintered silver and copper films, x-ray diffraction (XRD) was performed. The absorption wavelengths of the silver and copper nano-inks were measured using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). Furthermore, the resistivity of the sintered silver and copper films was measured using the four-point probe method and an alpha step. As a result, the fabricated Cu/Ag film shows a high electrical conductivity (4.06 μΩcm), which is comparable to the resistivity of bulk copper (1.68 μΩcm). In addition, the fabricated Cu/Ag nanoparticle film shows superior oxidation stability compared to the Cu nanoparticle film.

  3. Dispensing of high concentration Ag nano-particles ink for ultra-low resistivity paper-based writing electronics.

    PubMed

    Wang, Fuliang; Mao, Peng; He, Hu

    2016-02-17

    Paper-based writing electronics has received a lot of interest recently due to its potential applications in flexible electronics. To obtain ultra-low resistivity paper-based writing electronics, we developed a kind of ink with high concentration of Ag Nano-particles (up to 80 wt%), as well as a related dispensing writing system consisting an air compressor machine and a dispenser. Additionally, we also demonstrated the writability and practical application of our proposed ink and writing system. Based on the study on the effect of sintering time and pressure, we found the optimal sintering time and pressure to obtain high quality Ag NPs wires. The electrical conductivity of nano-silver paper-based electronics has been tested using the calculated resistivity. After hot-pressure sintering at 120 °C, 25 MPa pressure for 20 minutes, the resistivity of silver NPs conductive tracks was 3.92 × 10(-8) (Ωm), only 2.45 times of bulk silver. The mechanical flexibility of nano-silver paper-based electronics also has been tested. After 1000 bending cycles, the resistivity slightly increased from the initial 4.01 × 10(-8) to 5.08 × 10(-8) (Ωm). With this proposed ink preparation and writing system, a kind of paper-based writing electronics with ultra-low resistivity and good mechanical flexibility was achieved.

  4. Fabrication of nano-silver particles using Cymodocea serrulata and its cytotoxicity effect against human lung cancer A549 cells line

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Palaniappan, P.; Sathishkumar, G.; Sankar, R.

    2015-03-01

    The present study reports, green synthesis of bioactive silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) under different temperature (60 °C, room temperature and 4° refrigerator) using the aqueous extract of sea grass Cymodocea serrulata as a potential bioreductant. Increased temperature fabricates more AgNPs compare to room temperature and refrigerator condition. At first the reduction of Ag+ ions were confirmed through color change which produces an absorbance spectra at 420 nm in UV-Visible spectrophotometer. Additionally various exclusive instrumentations such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and Transmission electron microscope (TEM) were authorizes the biosynthesis and physio-chemical characterization of AgNPs. From Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, it was identified that the water soluble fractions of the sea grass mainly responsible for reduction of ionic silver (Ag+) into (Ag0) nano-ranged particles and also they act as stabilizing agent to sustain the durability of NPs for long period of time. Further, synthesized AgNPs shows potential cytotoxicity against human lung cancer A549 cells (LD50-100 μg/ml). The overall results suggest that C. serrulata is a valuable bioresource to generate rapid and eco-friendly bioactive AgNPs towards cancer therapy.

  5. Nano silver decorated polyacrylamide/dextran nanohydrogels hybrid composites for drug delivery applications.

    PubMed

    Prusty, Kalyani; Swain, Sarat K

    2018-04-01

    Herein, novel biodegradable, stimuli responsive, chemically cross-linked and porous polyacrylamide/dextran (PAM/D) nanohydrogels hybrid composites are synthesized by in situ polymerization technique with incorporation of reduced nano silver. The interaction of nano silver with PAM in presence of dextran is investigated by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The elemental composition of the hybrid nanohydrogels is studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) whereas; the surface morphology of nanohydrogels hybrid composites is studied by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) by which, it is observed that, the silver nanoparticles are homogeneously dispersed throughout the nanohydrogel network. From high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), the average size of silver nanoparticles is found to be 20nm. The swelling, deswelling and water retention properties of nanohydrogels hybrid composites are measured in order to investigate the release rate of the ornidazole drugs. The in vitro release rate of ornidazole drugs is found to be 98.5% in 6h. The antibacterial activities and the cytotoxicity tests along with positive and negative control of hybrid nanohydrogels are investigated. The loss modulus, gain modulus and complex viscosities are determined from rheological behaviour of the nanohydrogels. It is found that, the value of tanδ varies from 0.1 to 0.8. Nano silver decorated PAM/D nanohydrogels are stable, nontoxic with antibacterial behaviour may be suitable for drugs delivery vehicle. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles by silver salt reduction and its characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muzamil, Muhammad; Khalid, Naveed; Danish Aziz, M.; Aun Abbas, S.

    2014-06-01

    The wet chemical method route by metal salt reduction has been used to synthesize nanoparticles, using silver nitrate as an inorganic salt, aldehyde as a reducing agent and amino acid as a catalyst. During the reaction aldehyde oxidizes to carboxylic acid and encapsulates the silver nanoparticles to prevent agglomeration and provide barrier in the growth of particle. The existing work produces particles using lab grade chemical, here the presented work is by using industrial grade chemicals to make the process more cost & time effective. The nano silver powder has been studied for their formation, particle size, shape & compositional analysis using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with EDS. The particles size distributions were analyzed by Laser Particle Analyzer (LPA), structure & morphological analysis using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform-infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the stabilization of particles by coating of carboxylic group. These studies infer that the particles are mostly spherical in shape and have an average size between 70 to 350 nm.

  7. Plasmonic particles of colloidal silver in high-resolution recording media

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Andreeva, O. V.; Andreeva, N. V.; Kuzmina, T. B.

    2017-01-01

    The optical properties of colloidal silver particles formed photographically in high-resolution silver halide photographic materials have been considered. The conditions that allow one to obtain exposed and developed light-sensitive silver halide particles in the form of colloidal particles of metallic silver having the properties of localized plasmons have been described. The results of the studies of the developed silver particles in traditional photographic materials for image holography and in nanoporous silver halide photographic materials for volume holography have been presented. The perspectives of using plasmonic silver nanoparticles produced photographically have been discussed.

  8. Metallogel templated synthesis and stabilization of silver-particles and its application in catalytic reduction of nitro-arene.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Mukesh; Sarma, Plaban Jyoti; Goswami, Manash Jyoti; Bania, Kusum K

    2017-03-15

    Metallogel of iron-carboxylates was obtained from trans-1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid in dimethylformamide (DMF) at basic condition. Spectroscopic and SEM morphology study of the iron-metallogel revealed that the iron complex with dicarboxylic acid was linked together via carboxylates and led to a supramolecular helical like architecture. The synthesized metallogel served as an excellent template for in-situ reduction of silver ion to silver particles micro to nano scale range. Variation of AgNO 3 concentration shepherd to change the morphology of the Ag-particles. AgNO 3 concentration was found to affect the shape and size of silver particles. On going from lower to higher concentration shape of silver particles changed from spherical to large agglomerated particles. Cubic shape Ag-particles were found on treatment of 0.05M AgNO 3 solution with metallogel. Cubical shape silver particles were found to be effective catalyst for nitro-arene reduction in presence of NaBH 4 . Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to rationalize the role of Ag-particles in catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. Based on DFT study, we proposed that catalytic reduction occurred via Ag-hydride complex formation. Since metallogels as well as the 4-aminophenol are finding large application in pharmaceuticals industries therefore the current work can provide an alternatives path in production of 4-aminophenols. In addition to this, the synthesis of Ag-nanomaterials using metallogel as template can pave a new direction in the development of nanotechnology and might find wide applications in catalytic industrial processes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Nano-volcanic Eruption of Silver

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Shih-Kang; Nagao, Shijo; Yokoi, Emi; Oh, Chulmin; Zhang, Hao; Liu, Yu-Chen; Lin, Shih-Guei; Suganuma, Katsuaki

    2016-10-01

    Silver (Ag) is one of the seven metals of antiquity and an important engineering material in the electronic, medical, and chemical industries because of its unique noble and catalytic properties. Ag thin films are extensively used in modern electronics primarily because of their oxidation-resistance. Here we report a novel phenomenon of Ag nano-volcanic eruption that is caused by interactions between Ag and oxygen (O). It involves grain boundary liquation, the ejection of transient Ag-O fluids through grain boundaries, and the decomposition of Ag-O fluids into O2 gas and suspended Ag and Ag2O clusters. Subsequent coating with re-deposited Ag-O and the de-alloying of O yield a conformal amorphous Ag coating. Patterned Ag hillock arrays and direct Ag-to-Ag bonding can be formed by the homogenous crystallization of amorphous coatings. The Ag “nano-volcanic eruption” mechanism is elaborated, shedding light on a new mechanism of hillock formation and new applications of amorphous Ag coatings.

  10. Nano-volcanic Eruption of Silver.

    PubMed

    Lin, Shih-Kang; Nagao, Shijo; Yokoi, Emi; Oh, Chulmin; Zhang, Hao; Liu, Yu-Chen; Lin, Shih-Guei; Suganuma, Katsuaki

    2016-10-05

    Silver (Ag) is one of the seven metals of antiquity and an important engineering material in the electronic, medical, and chemical industries because of its unique noble and catalytic properties. Ag thin films are extensively used in modern electronics primarily because of their oxidation-resistance. Here we report a novel phenomenon of Ag nano-volcanic eruption that is caused by interactions between Ag and oxygen (O). It involves grain boundary liquation, the ejection of transient Ag-O fluids through grain boundaries, and the decomposition of Ag-O fluids into O 2 gas and suspended Ag and Ag 2 O clusters. Subsequent coating with re-deposited Ag-O and the de-alloying of O yield a conformal amorphous Ag coating. Patterned Ag hillock arrays and direct Ag-to-Ag bonding can be formed by the homogenous crystallization of amorphous coatings. The Ag "nano-volcanic eruption" mechanism is elaborated, shedding light on a new mechanism of hillock formation and new applications of amorphous Ag coatings.

  11. Dispensing of high concentration Ag nano-particles ink for ultra-low resistivity paper-based writing electronics

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Fuliang; Mao, Peng; He, Hu

    2016-01-01

    Paper-based writing electronics has received a lot of interest recently due to its potential applications in flexible electronics. To obtain ultra-low resistivity paper-based writing electronics, we developed a kind of ink with high concentration of Ag Nano-particles (up to 80 wt%), as well as a related dispensing writing system consisting an air compressor machine and a dispenser. Additionally, we also demonstrated the writability and practical application of our proposed ink and writing system. Based on the study on the effect of sintering time and pressure, we found the optimal sintering time and pressure to obtain high quality Ag NPs wires. The electrical conductivity of nano-silver paper-based electronics has been tested using the calculated resistivity. After hot-pressure sintering at 120 °C, 25 MPa pressure for 20 minutes, the resistivity of silver NPs conductive tracks was 3.92 × 10−8 (Ωm), only 2.45 times of bulk silver. The mechanical flexibility of nano-silver paper-based electronics also has been tested. After 1000 bending cycles, the resistivity slightly increased from the initial 4.01 × 10−8 to 5.08 × 10−8 (Ωm). With this proposed ink preparation and writing system, a kind of paper-based writing electronics with ultra-low resistivity and good mechanical flexibility was achieved. PMID:26883558

  12. Electroless silver coating of rod-like glass particles.

    PubMed

    Moon, Jee Hyun; Kim, Kyung Hwan; Choi, Hyung Wook; Lee, Sang Wha; Park, Sang Joon

    2008-09-01

    An electroless silver coating of rod-like glass particles was performed and silver glass composite powders were prepared to impart electrical conductivity to these non-conducting glass particles. The low density Ag-coated glass particles may be utilized for manufacturing conducting inorganic materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications and the techniques for controlling the uniform thickness of silver coating can be employed in preparation of biosensor materials. For the surface pretreatment, Sn sensitization was performed and the coating powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), focused ion beam microscopy (FIB), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) along with the surface resistant measurements. In particular, the use of FIB technique for determining directly the Ag-coating thickness was very effective on obtaining the optimum conditions for coating. The surface sensitization and initial silver loading for electroless silver coating could be found and the uniform and smooth silver-coated layer with thickness of 46 nm was prepared at 2 mol/l of Sn and 20% silver loading.

  13. A review on the application of inorganic nano-structured materials in the modification of textiles: focus on anti-microbial properties.

    PubMed

    Dastjerdi, Roya; Montazer, Majid

    2010-08-01

    Textiles can provide a suitable substrate to grow micro-organisms especially at appropriate humidity and temperature in contact to human body. Recently, increasing public concern about hygiene has been driving many investigations for anti-microbial modification of textiles. However, using many anti-microbial agents has been avoided because of their possible harmful or toxic effects. Application of inorganic nano-particles and their nano-composites would be a good alternative. This review paper has focused on the properties and applications of inorganic nano-structured materials with good anti-microbial activity potential for textile modification. The discussed nano-structured anti-microbial agents include TiO(2) nano-particles, metallic and non-metallic TiO(2) nano-composites, titania nanotubes (TNTs), silver nano-particles, silver-based nano-structured materials, gold nano-particles, zinc oxide nano-particles and nano-rods, copper nano-particles, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nano-clay and its modified forms, gallium, liposomes loaded nano-particles, metallic and inorganic dendrimers nano-composite, nano-capsules and cyclodextrins containing nano-particles. This review is also concerned with the application methods for the modification of textiles using nano-structured materials. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Bendable Electro-chemical Lactate Sensor Printed with Silver Nano-particles

    PubMed Central

    Abrar, Md Abu; Dong, Yue; Lee, Paul Kyuheon; Kim, Woo Soo

    2016-01-01

    Here we report a flexible amperometric lactate biosensor using silver nanoparticle based conductive electrode. Mechanically bendable cross-serpentine-shaped silver electrode is generated on flexible substrate for the mechanical durability such as bending. The biosensor is designed and fabricated by modifying silver electrode with lactate oxidase immobilized by bovine serum albumin. The in-sensor pseudo Ag/AgCl reference electrode is fabricated by chloridization of silver electrode, which evinced its long-term potential stability against a standard commercial Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The amperometric response of the sensor shows linear dependence with lactate concentration of 1~25 mM/L. Anionic selectivity is achieved by using drop-casted Nafion coated on silver electrode against anionic interferences such as ascorbate. This non-invasive electrochemical lactate sensor also demonstrates excellent resiliency against mechanical deformation and temperature fluctuation which leads the possibility of using it on human epidermis for continuous measurement of lactate from sweat. Near field communication based wireless data transmission is demonstrated to reflect a practical approach of the sensor to measure lactate concentration portably using human perspiration. PMID:27465437

  15. Bendable Electro-chemical Lactate Sensor Printed with Silver Nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abrar, Md Abu; Dong, Yue; Lee, Paul Kyuheon; Kim, Woo Soo

    2016-07-01

    Here we report a flexible amperometric lactate biosensor using silver nanoparticle based conductive electrode. Mechanically bendable cross-serpentine-shaped silver electrode is generated on flexible substrate for the mechanical durability such as bending. The biosensor is designed and fabricated by modifying silver electrode with lactate oxidase immobilized by bovine serum albumin. The in-sensor pseudo Ag/AgCl reference electrode is fabricated by chloridization of silver electrode, which evinced its long-term potential stability against a standard commercial Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The amperometric response of the sensor shows linear dependence with lactate concentration of 1~25 mM/L. Anionic selectivity is achieved by using drop-casted Nafion coated on silver electrode against anionic interferences such as ascorbate. This non-invasive electrochemical lactate sensor also demonstrates excellent resiliency against mechanical deformation and temperature fluctuation which leads the possibility of using it on human epidermis for continuous measurement of lactate from sweat. Near field communication based wireless data transmission is demonstrated to reflect a practical approach of the sensor to measure lactate concentration portably using human perspiration.

  16. Passive particle dosimetry. [silver halide crystal growth

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Childs, C. B.

    1977-01-01

    Present methods of dosimetry are reviewed with emphasis on the processes using silver chloride crystals for ionizing particle dosimetry. Differences between the ability of various crystals to record ionizing particle paths are directly related to impurities in the range of a few ppm (parts per million). To understand the roles of these impurities in the process, a method for consistent production of high purity silver chloride, and silver bromide was developed which yields silver halides with detectable impurity content less than 1 ppm. This high purity silver chloride was used in growing crystals with controlled doping. Crystals were grown by both the Czochalski method and the Bridgman method, and the Bridgman grown crystals were used for the experiments discussed. The distribution coefficients of ten divalent cations were determined for the Bridgman crystals. The best dosimeters were made with silver chloride crystals containing 5 to 10 ppm of lead; other impurities tested did not produce proper dosimeters.

  17. Mass production of polymer nano-wires filled with metal nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Lomadze, Nino; Kopyshev, Alexey; Bargheer, Matias; Wollgarten, Markus; Santer, Svetlana

    2017-08-17

    Despite the ongoing progress in nanotechnology and its applications, the development of strategies for connecting nano-scale systems to micro- or macroscale elements is hampered by the lack of structural components that have both, nano- and macroscale dimensions. The production of nano-scale wires with macroscale length is one of the most interesting challenges here. There are a lot of strategies to fabricate long nanoscopic stripes made of metals, polymers or ceramics but none is suitable for mass production of ordered and dense arrangements of wires at large numbers. In this paper, we report on a technique for producing arrays of ordered, flexible and free-standing polymer nano-wires filled with different types of nano-particles. The process utilizes the strong response of photosensitive polymer brushes to irradiation with UV-interference patterns, resulting in a substantial mass redistribution of the polymer material along with local rupturing of polymer chains. The chains can wind up in wires of nano-scale thickness and a length of up to several centimeters. When dispersing nano-particles within the film, the final arrangement is similar to a core-shell geometry with mainly nano-particles found in the core region and the polymer forming a dielectric jacket.

  18. Healing of burn wounds by topical treatment: A randomized controlled comparison between silver sulfadiazine and nano-crystalline silver

    PubMed Central

    Adhya, Abhishek; Bain, Jayanta; Ray, Oindri; Hazra, Avijit; Adhikari, Souvik; Dutta, Gouranga; Ray, Sudhin; Majumdar, Bijay Kumar

    2014-01-01

    Background: Silver sulfadiazine (SSD) has been the standard topical antimicrobial for burn wounds for decades. Recently, nanometer-sized silver particles are available which have high surface to volume ratio and remain effective even at a very low concentration and minimizes the chance for tissue toxicity due to silver. Hence, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of topical SSD and nano-crystalline silver (AgNP) hydrogel in burn wounds management. Materials and Methods: Study was conducted in the Burn Unit of IPGME&R & SSKM Hospital Calcutta, from January 2011 to August 2012. Patients with 2° burn injury were randomly allocated to SSD and AgNP treatment group. Clinical assessments of burn wound were done on every week till 4th week and on completion of treatment. Results: Data for evaluation were obtained for 54 patients on SSD (2° deep-dermal cases 27) and 52 (2° deep-dermal cases 31) on AgNP treatment. Healing status of 2° deep-dermal burns was more satisfactory for AgNP group than SSD treatment at 4 weeks. Among patients receiving AgNP, 80.6% showed at least 50% healing of 2° deep-dermal wounds compared to 48.1% on SSD at 4 weeks (P = 0.001). The figures for complete healing at 4 weeks were, respectively, 4% and 0% (P = 0.116). Conclusions: AgNP can be an effective and superior alternative to SSD for burn wounds, particularly 2° deep-dermal burns. Healing can be expected, in general, in 6 to 8 weeks time, depending upon the extent of body surface involvement. PMID:25538469

  19. Facile fabrication and characterization of poly(tetrafluoroethylene)@polypyrrole/nano-silver composite membranes with conducting and antibacterial property

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shi, Zhiquan; Zhou, Hui; Qing, Xutang; Dai, Tingyang; Lu, Yun

    2012-06-01

    Porous poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) membranes play an important role in air purification and separation engineering. To achieve the bi-functionality of conducting and antibacterial property, two kinds of poly(tetrafluoroethylene)@ polypyrrole/nano-silver composite membranes have been prepared. One involves hydrophobic polypyrrole/nano-silver composite with hollow capsule nanostructures immobilized on the surface of the PTFE membranes. The other is a type of composite membranes with polypyrrole/nano-silver composite wholly packed on the fibrils of the expand PTFE membrane to form core/shell coaxial cable structures. The structure and morphology of the two kinds of composite membranes have been characterized by FTIR, UV-vis, XRD, TGA and SEM measurements. Possible formation mechanisms of the hollow capsules and the core/shell nanocable structures have been discussed in detail. The antibacterial effects of composite membranes are also briefly investigated.

  20. Optical trapping/modification of nano-(micro)particles by gradient and photorefractive forces during laser illumination

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kukhtarev, N.; Kukhtareva, T.; Okafor, F.

    2010-08-01

    In this paper we describe photo-induced trapping/redistribution of silver nano-(micro) particles near the surface of photorefractive crystal LiNbO3:Fe. This type of optical trapping is due to combined forces of direct gradient-force trapping and asymmetric photorefractive forces of electro-phoresis and dielectro-phoresis. The silver nanoparticles were produced through extracellular biosynthesis on exposure to the fungus, Fusarium oxysporum (FO) and to the plant extracts. Pulsed and CW visible laser radiation lead to significant modification of nanoparticle clusters. This study indicates that extracellular biosynthesis can constitute a possible viable alternative method for the production of nanoparticles. In addition, the theoretical modeling of asymmetric photorefractive electric field grating has been presented and compared with the experimental results.

  1. Silver ion doped ceramic nano-powder coated nails prevent infection in open fractures: In vivo study.

    PubMed

    Kose, Nusret; Çaylak, Remzi; Pekşen, Ceren; Kiremitçi, Abdurrahman; Burukoglu, Dilek; Koparal, Savaş; Doğan, Aydın

    2016-02-01

    Despite improvement in operative techniques and antibiotic therapy, septic complications still occur in open fractures. We developed silver ion containing ceramic nano powder for implant coating to provide not only biocompatibility but also antibacterial activity to the orthopaedic implants. We hypothesised silver ion doped calcium phosphate based ceramic nano-powder coated titanium nails may prevents bacterial colonisation and infection in open fractures as compared with uncoated nails. 33 rabbits divided into three groups. In the first group uncoated, in the second group hydroxyapatite coated, and in the third group silver doped hydroxyapatite coated titanium nails were inserted left femurs of animals from knee regions with retrograde fashion. Before implantation of nails 50 μl solution containing 10(6)CFU/ml methicillin resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) injected intramedullary canal. Rabbits were monitored for 10 weeks. Blood was taken from rabbits before surgery and on 2nd, 6th and 10th weeks. Blood was analysed for biochemical parameters, blood count, C-reactive protein and silver levels. At the end of the 10 weeks animals were sacrificed and rods were extracted in a sterile fashion. Swab cultures were taken from intramedullary canal. Bacteria on titanium rods were counted. Liver, heart, spleen, kidney and central nervous tissues samples were taken for determining silver levels. Histopathological evaluation of bone surrounding implants was also performed. No significant difference was detected between the groups from hematologic, biochemical, and toxicological aspect. Microbiological results showed that less bacterial growth was detected with the use of silver doped ceramic coated implants compared to the other two groups (p=0.003). Accumulation of silver was not detected. No cellular inflammation was observed around the silver coated prostheses. No toxic effect of silver on bone cells was seen. Silver ion doped calcium phosphate based ceramic nano

  2. Effective reduction of p-nitrophenol by silver nanoparticle loaded on magnetic Fe3O4/ATO nano-composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karki, Hem Prakash; Ojha, Devi Prashad; Joshi, Mahesh Kumar; Kim, Han Joo

    2018-03-01

    A silver loaded hematite (Fe3O4) and antimony doped tin oxide (ATO) magnetic nano-composite (Ag-Fe3O4/ATO) was successfully synthesized by in situ one pot green and facile hydrothermal process. The formation of nano-composite, its structure, morphology, and stability were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), electron diffraction spectroscopy (EDS), elemental mapping by high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR). UV-vis spectroscopy was used to monitor the catalytic reduction of p-nitrophenol (PNP) into p-aminophenol (PAP) in presence of Ag-Fe3O4/ATO nano-composite with excess of sodium borohydride (NaBH4). The pseudo-first order kinetic equation could describe the reduction of p-nitrophenol with excess of NaBH4. For the first time, ATO surface was used for hydrothermal growth of silver and iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles. The in situ growth of these nanoparticles provided an effective bonding of components of the nano-composite over the surface of ATO nanoparticles. This nano-composite exhibited easy synthesis, high stability, cost effective and rapid separation using external magnet. The excellent catalytic and anti-bacterial activity of as-synthesized silver nano-composite makes it potential nano-catalyst for waste water treatment as well as biomedical application.

  3. Particle size effects on viscosity of silver pastes: A manufacturer's view

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Provance, J.; Allison, K.

    1983-01-01

    Particles from a variety of silver powders were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and particle size analyses. Particle size distribution curves and volume population graphs were prepared for these silver powders and for glass powders with optimum, extra fine and coarse particle sizes. The viscosity at a given shear rate and slope of viscosity over a range of shear rates were determined for thick film pastes made with these powders. Because of particle anomalies and variations, the need for flexibility to achieve the best printing qualities for silver pastes was evident. It was established that print quality, dried and fired film density and optimum contact of silver particles with silicon, important for cell electrical output, could be achieved by adjusting the slope of viscosity that fell outside of the range, -0.550 to -0.650. This was accomplished through organic vehicle technology that permitted a change in the slope of viscosity, up or down, while maintaining a constant silver and total solids content.

  4. The relationship between substrate morphology and biological performances of nano-silver-loaded dopamine coatings on titanium surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Weibo; Wang, Shuang; Ge, Shaohua; Ji, Ping

    2018-01-01

    Biomedical device-associated infection (BAI) and lack of osseointegration are the main causes of implant failure. Therefore, it is imperative for implants not only to depress microbial activity and biofilm colonization but also to prompt osteoblast functions and osseointegration. As part of the coating development for implants, the interest of in vitro studies on the interaction between implant substrate morphology and the coating's biological performances is growing. In this study, by harnessing the adhesion and reactivity of bioinspired polydopamine, nano-silver was successfully anchored onto micro/nanoporous as well as smooth titanium surfaces to analyse the effect of substrate morphology on biological performances of the coatings. Compared with the smooth surface, a small size of nano-silver and high silver content was found on the micro/nanoporous surface. More mineralization happened on the coating on the micro/nanoporous structure than on the smooth surface, which led to a more rapid decrease of silver release from the micro/nanoporous surface. Antimicrobial tests indicated that both surfaces with resulting coating inhibit microbial colonization on them and growth around them, indicating that the coating eliminates the shortcoming of the porous structure which render the implant extremely susceptible to BAI. Besides, the multiple osteoblast responses of nano-silver-loaded dopamine coatings on both surfaces, i.e. attachment, proliferation and differentiation, have deteriorated, however the mineralized surfaces of these coatings stimulated osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, especially for the micro/nanoporous surface. Therefore, nano-silver-loaded dopamine coatings on micro/nanoporous substratum may not only reduce the risk of infection but also facilitate mineralization during the early post-operative period and then promote osseointegration owing to the good osteoblast-biocompatibility of the mineralized surface. These results clearly highlight

  5. Synthesis and characterization of monosodium urate (MSU) nano particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tank, Nirali S.; Rathod, K. R.; Parekh, B. B.; Parikh, K. D.; Joshi, M. J.

    2016-05-01

    In Gout the deposition of crystals of Monosodium Urate (MSU) in various connective tissues and joints occurs, which is very painful with immflamation. The deposition likely to begin with nano particles form and expected to grow in to micro-paricles and hence it is important to synthesize and characrterize MSU nano-particles. The MSU nano particles were synthesized by wet chemical method using NaOH and uric acid (C5H4N4O3) and then characterized by powder XRD, TEM, FT-IR and thermal analysis. From the powder XRD the triclinic structure was found and 40 nm average particle size was estimated by using Scherrer's formula. From TEM the particle size was found to be in the range of 20 to 60 nm. The FT-IR spectrum for the MSU nano particles confirmed the presence of O-H stretching, N-H stretching, N-H rocking, C = O, C = C Enol or Keto and C = N vibrations. The thermal analysis was carried out from room temperature to 900°C. With comparison to the bulk MSU the thermal stability of MSU nano particles was slightly higher and 1.5 water molecules were found to be associated with MSU nano particles. Present results are compared with the bulk MSU.

  6. Investigation Into Shelf Life of Fresh Dates and Pistachios in a Package Modified With Nano-Silver.

    PubMed

    Mousavi, Fateme Peyro; Pour, Hasan Hashemi; Nasab, Amir Heidari; Rajabalipour, Ali A; Barouni, Mohsen

    2015-09-18

    The aim of this study was to apply polymer films containing silver nanoparticles as a new method for increasing the shelf life and preserving the quality of export/commercial products of Kerman Province and determine the ideal temperature for preserving these products. After preparing nano-composite films containing silver nanoparticles (3% and 5% by weight), Mazafati dates were packed in them and stored with their control samples under four temperatures. In the second series, the films were filled with fresh pistachios and stored at four temperatures. In date samples, after 2, 7, 21 and 53 days of storing the samples were examined under the certified test of Iran Institute of Industrial Standard for Dates, which includes pH, TSS, acidity and reducing sugars tests. In pistachio samples the color values and market-friendly quality were evaluated after 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 days of storage. In date samples, the pH value decreased with increasing acidity in 3 and 5 wt% of nano-silver and their control samples. In addition, in 5 wt% samples the acidity was higher than that in 3% samples, with pH being lower in the controls at almost all the intervals. Furthermore, pH values in 5% samples were higher in comparison with 3 wt% samples and controls. The amount of reducing sugars in the control samples was lower than those in 3 and 5 wt% samples. In relation to pistachio samples, the damage over time was greater in sample stored under higher temperatures. The maximum shelf life of the dates packaged in 5 wt% of silver nano-powder was 53 days and the best temperature to store samples was determined at 4°C. Packages containing nano-silver increased shelf life of fresh pistachios, with the best temperatures being 25°C and 0°C.

  7. Investigation Into Shelf Life of Fresh Dates and Pistachios in a Package Modified With Nano-Silver

    PubMed Central

    Mousavi, Fateme Peyro; Pour, Hasan Hashemi; Nasab, Amir Heidari; Rajabalipour, Ali A.; Barouni, Mohsen

    2016-01-01

    Aims: The aim of this study was to apply polymer films containing silver nanoparticles as a new method for increasing the shelf life and preserving the quality of export/commercial products of Kerman Province and determine the ideal temperature for preserving these products. Methods: After preparing nano-composite films containing silver nanoparticles (3% and 5% by weight), Mazafati dates were packed in them and stored with their control samples under four temperatures. In the second series, the films were filled with fresh pistachios and stored at four temperatures. In date samples, after 2, 7, 21 and 53 days of storing the samples were examined under the certified test of Iran Institute of Industrial Standard for Dates, which includes pH, TSS, acidity and reducing sugars tests. In pistachio samples the color values and market-friendly quality were evaluated after 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 days of storage. Results: In date samples, the pH value decreased with increasing acidity in 3 and 5 wt% of nano-silver and their control samples. In addition, in 5 wt% samples the acidity was higher than that in 3% samples, with pH being lower in the controls at almost all the intervals. Furthermore, pH values in 5% samples were higher in comparison with 3 wt% samples and controls. The amount of reducing sugars in the control samples was lower than those in 3 and 5 wt% samples. In relation to pistachio samples, the damage over time was greater in sample stored under higher temperatures. Conclusion: The maximum shelf life of the dates packaged in 5 wt% of silver nano-powder was 53 days and the best temperature to store samples was determined at 4°C. Packages containing nano-silver increased shelf life of fresh pistachios, with the best temperatures being 25°C and 0°C. PMID:26652097

  8. Synthesis and characterization of struvite nano particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rathod, K. R.; Jogiya, B. V.; Chauhan, C. K.; Joshi, M. J.

    2015-06-01

    Struvite, Ammonium Magnesium Phosphate Hexahydrate [(AMPH) - (NH4)MgPO4.6(H2O)], is one of the fascinating inorganic phosphate minerals. Struvite is one of the components of the urinary stones. Struvite occurs as crystallites in urine and grows as a type of kidney stone. In this study, struvite nano particles were synthesized by wet chemical technique. The aqueous solutions containing dissolved Mg(CH3COO)2.4H2O and (NH4)H2PO4 mixed at the Mg/P molar ratio of 1.00. The synthesized struvite nano particles were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, Thermal Analysis and TEM. From XRD, crystal structure of the nano particle was found to be orthorhombic and crystalline size was found to be within 11 to 26 nm. The FT-IR spectrum for the struvite nano particles confirmed the presence of a water molecule and metal-oxygen stretching vibration, O-H stretching and bending, N-H bending and stretching, P-O bending and stretching vibrations. The Thermal Analysis was carried out from room temperature to 900°C. From TEM analysis, particle size was 23 to 30 nm. All the results were compared with bulk struvite.

  9. Study of the spectra of silica colloidal crystals with assembled silver obtained from a photolysis method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Wenjiang; He, Jinglong; He, Sailing

    2005-02-01

    The colorful artificial 3D silica colloidal crystals (opal) were prepared through self-assembly of silica spheres in the visible frequency range. We directly synthesized nano silver particles in the void of the silica artificial opal film using the photolysis of silver nitrate under UV light, nano silver particles were self-deposited around the surface of silica sphere. The shifts of the stop band of the artificial crystals after exposing different time under UV light were studied. Synthetic silica opal with three-dimensional (3D) structure is potentially useful for the development of diffractive optical devices, micro mechanical systems, and sensory elements because photonic band gaps obtained from self-assembled closely packed periodic structures.

  10. Comparison of nanosilver and ionic silver toxicity in Daphnia magna and Pimephales promelas

    EPA Science Inventory

    This work evaluates the relative contribution of soluble (Ag+) silver and and nano-scale silver particles (n-Ag) and thus addresses an important issue relative to potential ecological risk of n-Ag and of other partially-soluble metal nanoparticles. We used acute to chronic (based...

  11. Differential effect of hydroxyapatite nano-particle versus nano-rod decorated titanium micro-surface on osseointegration.

    PubMed

    Bai, Long; Liu, Yanlian; Du, Zhibin; Weng, Zeming; Yao, Wei; Zhang, Xiangyu; Huang, Xiaobo; Yao, Xiaohong; Crawford, Ross; Hang, Ruiqiang; Huang, Di; Tang, Bin; Xiao, Yin

    2018-06-15

    Coating materials applied for intraosseous implants must be optimized to stimulate osseointegration. Osseointegration is a temporal and spatial physiological process that not only requires interactions between osteogenesis and angiogenesis but also necessitates a favorable immune microenvironment. It is now well-documented that hierarchical nano-micro surface structures promote the long-term stability of implants, the interactions between nano-micro structure and the immune response are largely unknown. Here, we report the effects of microporous titanium (Ti) surfaces coated with nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) produced by micro-arc oxidation and steam-hydrothermal treatment (SHT) on multiple cell behavior and osseointegration. By altering the processing time of SHT it was possible to shift HA structures from nano-particles to nano-rods on the microporous Ti surfaces. Ti surfaces coated with HA nano-particles were found to modulate the inflammatory response resulting in an osteoimmune microenvironment more favorable for osteo-/angio-genesis, most likely via the activation of certain key signaling pathways (TGF-β, OPG/RANKL, and VEGF). By contrast, Ti surfaces coated with nano-rod shaped HA particles had a negative impact on osteo-/angio-genesis and osteoimmunomodulation. In vivo results further demonstrated that Ti implant surfaces decorated with HA nano-particles can stimulate new bone formation and osseointegration with enhanced interaction between osteocytes and implant surfaces. This study demonstrated that Ti implants with micro-surfaces coated with nano-particle shaped HA have a positive impact on osseointegration. Osteo-/angio-genesis are of importance during osteointegration of the implants. Recent advances unravel that immune response of macrophages and its manipulated osteoimmunomodulation also exerts a pivotal role to determine the fate of the implant. Surface nano-micro modification has evidenced to be efficient to influence osteogenesis, however, little is

  12. Characterisations of collagen-silver-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ciobanu, C. S.; Popa, C. L.; Petre, C. C.; Jiga, G.; Trusca, R.; Predoi, D.

    2016-05-01

    The XRD analysis were performed to confirm the formation of hydroxyapatite structure in collagen-silver-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites. The molecular interaction in collagen-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites was highlighted by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The SEM showed a nanostructure of collagen-silverhydroxyapatite nanocomposites composed of nano needle-like particles in a veil with collagen texture. The presence of vibrational groups characteristics to the hydroxyapatite structure in collagen-silver-hydroxyapatite (AgHApColl) nanocomposites was investigated by FTIR.

  13. Nano-particle modified stationary phases for high-performance liquid chromatography.

    PubMed

    Nesterenko, Ekaterina P; Nesterenko, Pavel N; Connolly, Damian; He, Xiaoyun; Floris, Patrick; Duffy, Emer; Paull, Brett

    2013-08-07

    This review covers the latest developments and applications of nano-materials in stationary phase development for various modes of high-performance liquid chromatography. Specific attention is placed upon the development of new composite phases, including the synthetic and immobilisation strategies used, to produce either encapsulated nano-particles, or surface attached nano-particles, layers, coatings and other structures. The resultant chromatographic applications, where applicable, are discussed with comment upon enhanced selectivity and/or efficiency of the nano-particle modified phases, where such effects have been identified. In the main this review covers developments over the past five years and is structured according to the nature of the nano-particles themselves, including carbonaceous, metallic, inorganic, and organopolymer based materials.

  14. Silver particle monolayers — Formation, stability, applications.

    PubMed

    Oćwieja, Magdalena; Adamczyk, Zbigniew; Morga, Maria; Kubiak, Katarzyna

    2015-08-01

    The formation of silver particle monolayers at solid substrates in self-assembly processes is thoroughly reviewed. Initially, various silver nanoparticle synthesis routes are discussed with the emphasis focused on the chemical reduction in aqueous media. Subsequently, the main experimental methods aimed at bulk suspension characterization are critically reviewed by pointing out their advantages and limitations. Also, various methods enabling the in situ studies of particle deposition and release kinetics, especially the streaming potential method are discussed. In the next section, experimental data are invoked illustrating the most important features of particle monolayer formation, in particular, the role of bulk suspension concentration, particle size, ionic strength, temperature and pH. Afterward, the stability of monolayers and particle release kinetics are extensively discussed. The results obtained by the ex situ AFM/SEM imaging of particles are compared with the in situ streaming potential measurements. An equivalency of both methods is demonstrated, especially in respect to the binding energy determination. It is shown that these experimental results can be adequately interpreted in terms of the hybrid theoretical approach that combines the bulk transport step with the surface blocking effects derived from the random sequential adsorption model. It is also concluded that the particle release kinetics is governed by the discrete electrostatic interactions among ion pairs on particle and substrate surfaces. The classical theories based on the mean-field (averaged) zeta potential concept proved inadequate. Using the ion pair concept the minor dependence of the binding energy on particle size, ionic strength, pH and temperature is properly explained. The final sections of this review are devoted to the application of silver nanoparticles and their monolayers in medicine, analytical chemistry and catalysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Oleic acid coated magnetic nano-particles: Synthesis and characterizations

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Panda, Biswajit, E-mail: bpanda@mes.ac.in; Goyal, P. S.

    2015-06-24

    Magnetic nano particles of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} coated with oleic acid were synthesized using wet chemical route, which involved co-precipitation of Fe{sup 2+} and Fe{sup 3+} ions. The nano particles were characterized using XRD, TEM, FTIR, TGA and VSM. X-ray diffraction studies showed that nano particles consist of single phase Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} having inverse spinel structure. The particle size obtained from width of Bragg peak is about 12.6 nm. TEM analysis showed that sizes of nano particles are in range of 6 to 17 nm with a dominant population at 12 - 14 nm. FTIR and TGA analysis showed that -COOH groupmore » of oleic acid is bound to the surface of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles and one has to heat the sample to 278° C to remove the attached molecule from the surface. Further it was seen that Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles exhibit super paramagnetism with a magnetization of about 53 emu/ gm.« less

  16. Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by using Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balamurugan, Madheswaran; Saravanan, Shanmugam

    2017-12-01

    A single step eco-friendly, energy efficient and economically scalable green method was employed to synthesize silver nanoparticles. In this work, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract as reducing and capping agent along with water as solvent at normal room temperature is described. Silver nanoparticles were prepared from aqueous silver nitrate solution by adding the leaf extract. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by using UV-visible Spectrophotometer, X-ray diffractometer, High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HR-TEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (FTIS). X-ray diffraction studies brought to light the crystalline nature and the face centered cubic structure of the silver nanoparticles. Using HR-TEM. the nano sizes and morphology of the particles were studied. The mean sizes of the prepared silver nanoparticles ranged from 30 to 36 nm. The density of the particles was tuned by varying the molar ratio of silver nitrate. FTIS studies showed the functional group of organic molecules which were located on the surface of the silver nanoparticles. Originating from the leaf extracts, these organic molecules reduced and capped the particles.

  17. Effect of Particle Size and Impact Velocity on Collision Behaviors Between Nano-Scale TiN Particles: MD Simulation.

    PubMed

    Yao, Hai-Long; Hu, Xiao-Zhen; Yang, Guan-Jun

    2018-06-01

    Inter-particle bonding formation which determines qualities of nano-scale ceramic coatings is influenced by particle collision behaviors during high velocity collision processes. In this study, collision behaviors between nano-scale TiN particles with different diameters were illuminated by using Molecular Dynamics simulation through controlling impact velocities. Results show that nano-scale TiN particles exhibit three states depending on particle sizes and impact velocities, i.e., bonding, bonding with localized fracturing, and rebounding. These TiN particles states are summarized into a parameter selection map providing an overview of the conditions in terms of particle sizes and velocities. Microstructure results show that localized atoms displacement and partial fracture around the impact region are main reasons for bonding formation of nano-scale ceramic particles, which shows differences from conventional particles refining and amorphization. A relationship between the adhesion energy and the rebound energy is established to understand bonding formation mechanism for nano-scale TiN particle collision. Results show that the energy relationship is depended on the particle sizes and impact velocities, and nano-scale ceramic particles can be bonded together as the adhesion energy being higher than the rebound energy.

  18. Synthesis of Silver Embedded Poly(o-Anisidine) Molybdophosphate Nano Hybrid Cation-Exchanger Applicable for Membrane Electrode

    PubMed Central

    Khan, Anish; Khan, Aftab Aslam Parwaz; Asiri, Abdullah M.; Rub, Malik Abdul

    2014-01-01

    Poly(o-anisidine) molybdophosphate was expediently obtained by sol-gel mixing of Poly(o-anisidine) into the inorganic matrices of molybdophosphate, which was allowed to react with silver nitrate to the formation of poly(o-anisidine) molybdophosphate embedded silver nano composite. The composite was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Thermogravimertic Analysis. Ion exchange capacity and distribution studies were carried out to understand the ion-exchange capabilities of the nano composite. On the basis of highest distribution studies, this nano composite cation exchanger was used as preparation of heavy metal ion selective membrane. Membrane was characterized for its performance as porosity and swelling later on was used for the preparation of membrane electrode for Hg(II), having better linear range, wide working pH range (2–4.5) with fast response in the real environment. PMID:24805257

  19. Spatial redistribution of nano-particles using electrokinetic micro-focuser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garcia, Daniel E.; Silva, Aleidy; Ho, Chih-Ming

    2007-09-01

    Current microfabrication technologies rely on top-down, photolithographic techniques that are ultimately limited by the wavelength of light. While systems for nanofabrication do exist, they frequently suffer from high costs and slow processing times, creating a need for a new manufacturing paradigm. The combination of top-down and bottom-up fabrication approaches in device construction creates a new paradigm in micro- and nano-manufacturing. The pre-requisite for the realization of the manufacturing paradigm relies on the manipulation of molecules in a deterministic and controlled manner. The use of AC electrokinetic forces, such as dielectrophoresis (DEP) and AC electroosmosis, is a promising technology for manipulating nano-sized particle in a parallel fashion. A three-electrode micro-focusing system was designed to expoit this forces in order to control the spatial distribution of nano-particles in different frequency ranges. Thus far, we have demonstrated the ability to concentrate 40 nm and 300 nm diameter particles using a 50 μm diameter focusing system. AC electroosmotic motion of the nano-particles was observed while using low frequencies (in a range of 30 Hz - 1 KHz). By using different frequencies and changing the ground location, we have manipulated the nano-particles into circular band structures with different width, and focused the nanoparticles into circular spots with different diameters. Currently, we are in the progress of optimizing the operation parameters (e.g. frequency and AC voltages) by using the technique of particle image velocimetry (PIV). In the future, design of different electrode geometries and the numerical simulation of electric field distribution will be carried out to manipulate the nano-particles into a variety of geometries.

  20. Effect of a nano-silver coating on the quality of fresh turkey meat during storage after modified atmosphere or vacuum packaging.

    PubMed

    Deus, D; Kehrenberg, C; Schaudien, D; Klein, G; Krischek, C

    2017-02-01

    Nano-silver is used in consumer products due to its antibacterial properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nano-silver-coated film on the quality of turkey meat during vacuum-sealed and modified atmosphere packaging up to 12 days of storage. In the first part of the experiment, turkey breasts were packaged using either vacuum packaging or modified atmosphere packages (MAPs) and contained films with or without a nano-silver coating (control film). Parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, color (lightness L*, redness a*), myoglobin redox forms, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), biogenic amines (BAs), total viable bacterial counts, Pseudomonas species counts, and Enterobacteriaceae species counts were evaluated on storage days 4, 8, and 12. In the second part of the study, the antimicrobial effect of a nano-silver-coated film on turkey breast was evaluated after inoculation with Escherichia coli (E. coli). Turkey meat packaged with the nano-silver film exhibited lower a* values on days 1 (3.15 ± 0.62), 4 (3.90 ± 0.68), and 8 (4.27 ± 0.76) compared to the packaged meat with the control film (3.41 ± 0.73, 4.35 ± 0.94, 4.85 ± 0.89, respectively), indicating special optical properties of nanoparticles. Concerning the BAs, silver packaged meat showed higher values of tyramine on day 12 (1274 ± 392 ng/g meat) and cadaverine on day 4 (1224 ± 435 ng/g meat) compared to the normal packaged products (647 ± 576 and 508 ± 314 ng/g meat, respectively). MAP meat revealed higher L* and TBARS values and lower microbial counts than the vacuum packaged products on all days. The MAP meat also showed lower a* results on days 4 and 8 and higher metmyoglobin (metMb) values on days 8 and 12 compared to th E: vacuum products. In the inoculation study, the microbial counts of the turkey meat were comparable between the two film types. The study showed that the nano-silver coating did not exhibit any advantageous

  1. Synthesis of Silver Polymer Nanocomposites and Their Antibacterial Activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gavade, Chaitali; Shah, Sunil; Singh, N. L.

    2011-07-01

    PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) silver nanocomposites of different sizes were prepared by chemical reduction method. Silver nitrate was taken as the metal precursor and amine hydrazine as a reducing agent. The formation of the silver nanoparticles was noticed using UV- visible absorption spectroscopy. The UV-visible spectroscopy revealed the formation of silver nanoparticles by exhibiting the surface plasmon resonance. The bactericidal activity due to silver release from the surface was determined by the modification of conventional diffusion method. Salmonella typhimurium, Serratia sps and Shigella sps were used as test bacteria which are gram-negative type bacteria. Effect of the different sizes of silver nano particles on antibacterial efficiency was discussed. Zones of inhibition were measured after 24 hours of incubation at 37 °C which gave 20 mm radius for high concentration of silver nanoparticles.

  2. Enhancement of iron content in spinach plants stimulated by magnetic nano particles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yulianto, Agus; Astuti, Budi; Amalia, Saptaria Rosa

    In our previous study, the iron content in spinach plants could be detected by magnetic susceptibility values. In the present work, magnetic nano particles were found from the iron sand. The magnetic nano particles are synthesis by using co-precipitation process and sol-gel technique. The stimulation of magnetic nano particles in the plant has been done by the provision of magnetic nano particles in growing media. After certain time, plant samples was characterized using susceptibility-meter MS2B and atomic absorption spectroscopy to measure the magnetic susceptibility and the amount of iron content that absorbed of the plant, respectively. The iron content inmore » the spinach plants was increased when the magnetic nano particles was injected in the growing media.« less

  3. Numerical modeling study of silver nano-filling based on grapefruit-type photonic crystal fiber sensor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Yibo; Zhang, Lei; Wang, Yuan

    2017-10-01

    In this letter, surface plasmon resonance sensors based on grapefruit-type photonic crystal fiber (PCF)with different silver nano-filling structure have been analyzed and compared though the finite element method (FEM). The regularity of the resonant wavelength changing with refractive index of the sample has been numerically simulated. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing properties have been numerically simulated in both areas of resonant wavelength and intensity detection. Numerical results show that excellent sensor resolution of 4.17×10-5RIU can be achieved as the radius of the filling silver nanowires is 150 nm by spectrum detection method. Comprehensive comparison indicates that the 150 nm silver wire filling structure is suitable for spectrum detection and 30 nm silver film coating structure is suitable for the amplitude detection.

  4. Bio-synthesis and antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles using anaerobically digested parthenium slurry.

    PubMed

    Adur, Alaknanda J; Nandini, N; Shilpashree Mayachar, K; Ramya, R; Srinatha, N

    2018-06-01

    Silver nanoparticles were prepared through eco-friendly, cost effective, bio-mediated technique using anaerobically digested Parthenium hysterophorous digested slurry (PDS) for the first time. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized through different techniques such as UV-Vis spectrophotometer for optical properties; X-ray diffractometer (XRD), high resolution transmission electron spectroscopy (HR-TEM) and Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) Spectroscopy for structural property investigations. It was observed that the prepared silver nanoparticles were crystallized in face centered cubic crystal structure with an average particle size of 19 nm as confirmed from XRD. Also HR-TEM studies reveal the formation of nano-sized silver particles with face centered cubic nano structure. In addition, absorption spectra exhibit Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) which suggests the formation of silver nanoparticles. FTIR results show the presence of different characteristic functional groups and their stretching / bending vibrations in turn responsible for the bioreduction of silver ions in Parthenium digested slurry. Further investigations on antimicrobial activity were done by subjecting the synthesized silver nanoparticles on E-coli and Pseudomonas as marker organisms for the group of gram negative bacteria by well plate method on enrichment media. The result obtained shows a clear zone of inhibition confirming the antibacterial activity. Overall, the investigated results confirm the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles are potential candidates for antimicrobial activity applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Self assembly of nano metric metallic particles for realization of photonic and electronic nano transistors.

    PubMed

    Shahmoon, Asaf; Limon, Ofer; Girshevitz, Olga; Zalevsky, Zeev

    2010-05-25

    In this paper, we present the self assembly procedure as well as experimental results of a novel method for constructing well defined arrangements of self assembly metallic nano particles into sophisticated nano structures. The self assembly concept is based on focused ion beam (FIB) technology, where metallic nano particles are self assembled due to implantation of positive gallium ions into the insulating material (e.g., silica as in silicon on insulator wafers) that acts as intermediary layer between the substrate and the negatively charge metallic nanoparticles.

  6. Engineered nano particles: Nature, behavior, and effect on the environment.

    PubMed

    Goswami, Linee; Kim, Ki-Hyun; Deep, Akash; Das, Pallabi; Bhattacharya, Satya Sundar; Kumar, Sandeep; Adelodun, Adedeji A

    2017-07-01

    Increased application of engineered nano particles (ENPs) in production of various appliances and consumer items is increasing their presence in the natural environment. Although a wide variety of nano particles (NPs) are ubiquitously dispersed in ecosystems, risk assessment guidelines to describe their ageing, direct exposure, and long-term accumulation characteristics are poorly developed. In this review, we describe what is known about the life cycle of ENPs and their impact on natural systems and examine if there is a cohesive relationship between their transformation processes and bio-accessibility in various food chains. Different environmental stressors influence the fate of these particles in the environment. Composition of solid media, pore size, solution chemistry, mineral composition, presence of natural organic matter, and fluid velocity are some environmental stressors that influence the transformation, transport, and mobility of nano particles. Transformed nano particles can reduce cell viability, growth and morphology, enhance oxidative stress, and damage DNA in living organisms. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Antimicrobial, free radical scavenging activities and catalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol by nano-silver synthesized from the leaf extract of Aristolochia indica L.: a promenade towards sustainability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shanmugam, C.; Sivasubramanian, G.; Parthasarathi, Bera; Baskaran, K.; Balachander, R.; Parameswaran, V. R.

    2016-06-01

    Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were synthesized from aqueous silver nitrate through a simple route using the leaf extract of Aristolochia indica L. (LAIL) which acted as a reducing as well as capping agent. X-ray diffraction confirmed that the synthesized silver particles have a face centred cubic structure. EDS predicted the presence of elemental silver. The SEM images showed the synthesis of spherically mono-dispersed particles, with nano dimensions accounted by the TEM images. Infra-red spectrum adopted to the different organic functionalities present at the surface of the particles. TGA indicated an overall 11 % weight loss up to 1000 °C, suggesting desorption of biomolecules from the surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed the presence of metallic silver nanoparticles. The prepared material was utilized as catalyst in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol with molecular oxygen as the oxidant in methanol, under ambient conditions of temperature and pressure. Also Ag-NPs showed good to moderate anti-microbial activity employing the Agar disc diffusion method against various strains using Ciprofloxacin and Fluconazole as standard. Free radical scavenging activity of the nanoparticles were observed by modified 1,1-diphynyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, DPPH and 2,2-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), ABTS in vitro assays. The work presented here demonstrates the adaptability of the synthesized Ag-NPs in participating as a disinfectant agent, free radical scavenger and an effective oxidation catalyst. The basic premise of attaining sustainability through the green synthesis of smart multifaceted materials has been consciously addressed.

  8. Deposition of gold nano-particles and nano-layers on polyethylene modified by plasma discharge and chemical treatment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Švorčík, V.; Chaloupka, A.; Záruba, K.; Král, V.; Bláhová, O.; Macková, A.; Hnatowicz, V.

    2009-08-01

    Polyethylene (PE) was treated in Ar plasma discharge and then grafted from methanol solution of 1,2-ethanedithiol to enhance adhesion of gold nano-particles or sputtered gold layers. The modified PE samples were either immersed into freshly prepared colloid solution of Au nano-particles or covered by sputtered, 50 nm thick gold nano-layer. Properties of the plasma modified, dithiol grafted and gold coated PE were studied using XPS, UV-VIS, AFM, EPR, RBS methods and nanoindentation. It was shown that the plasma treatment results in degradation of polymer chain, creation of excessive free radicals and conjugated double bonds. After grafting with 1,2-ethanedithiol the concentration of free radicals declined but the concentration of double bonds remained unchanged. Plasma treatment changes PE surface morphology and increases surface roughness too. Another significant change in the surface morphology and roughness was observed after deposition of Au nano-particles. The presence of Au on the sample surface after the coating with Au nano-particles was proved by XPS and RBS methods. Nanoindentation measurements shown that the grafting of plasma activated PE surface with dithiol increases significantly adhesion of sputtered Au nano-layer.

  9. In-vitro anticancer and antimicrobial activities of PLGA/silver nanofiber composites prepared by electrospinning.

    PubMed

    Almajhdi, Fahad N; Fouad, H; Khalil, Khalil Abdelrazek; Awad, Hanem M; Mohamed, Sahar H S; Elsarnagawy, T; Albarrag, Ahmed M; Al-Jassir, Fawzi F; Abdo, Hany S

    2014-04-01

    In the present work, a series of 0, 1 and 7 wt% silver nano-particles (Ag NPs) incorporated poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nano-fibers were synthesized by the electrospinning process. The PLGA/Ag nano-fibers sheets were characterized using SEM, TEM and DSC analyses. The three synthesized PLGA/silver nano-fiber composites were screened for anticancer activity against liver cancer cell line using MTT and LDH assays. The anticancer activity of PLGA nano-fibers showed a remarkable improvement due to increasing the concentration of the Ag NPs. In addition to the given result, PLGA nano-fibers did not show any cytotoxic effect. However, PLGA nano-fibers that contain 1 % nano silver showed anticancer activity of 8.8 %, through increasing the concentration of the nano silver to 7 % onto PLGA nano-fibers, the anticancer activity was enhanced to a 67.6 %. Furthermore, the antibacterial activities of these three nano-fibers, against the five bacteria strains namely; E.coli o157:H7 ATCC 51659, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 13565, Bacillus cereus EMCC 1080, Listeria monocytogenes EMCC 1875 and Salmonella typhimurium ATCC25566 using the disc diffusion method, were evaluated. Sample with an enhanced inhibitory effect was PLGA/Ag NPs (7 %) which inhibited all strains (inhibition zone diameter 10 mm); PLGA/Ag NPs (1 %) sample inhibited only one strain (B. cereus) with zone diameter 8 mm. The PLGA nano-fiber sample has not shown any antimicrobial activity. Based on the anticancer as well as the antimicrobial results in this study, it can be postulated that: PLGA nanofibers containing 7 % nano silver are suitable as anticancer- and antibiotic-drug delivery systems, as they will increase the anticancer as well as the antibiotic drug potency without cytotoxicity effect on the normal cells. These findings also suggest that Ag NPs, of the size (5-10 nm) evaluated in the present study, are appropriate for therapeutic application from a safety standpoint.

  10. The potent antimicrobial properties of cell penetrating peptide-conjugated silver nanoparticles with excellent selectivity for gram-positive bacteria over erythrocytes.

    PubMed

    Liu, Lihong; Yang, Jun; Xie, Jianping; Luo, Zhentao; Jiang, Jiang; Yang, Yi Yan; Liu, Shaomin

    2013-05-07

    Silver nanoparticles are of great interest for use as antimicrobial agents. Studies aimed at producing potent nano-silver biocides have focused on manipulation of particle size, shape, composition and surface charge. Here, we report the cell penetrating peptide catalyzed formation of antimicrobial silver nanoparticles in N,N-dimethylformamide. The novel nano-composite demonstrated a distinctly enhanced biocidal effect toward bacteria (gram-positive Bacillus subtilis, gram-negative Escherichia coli) and pathogenic yeast (Candida albicans), as compared to triangular and extremely small silver nanoparticles. In addition, a satisfactory biocompatibility was verified by a haemolysis test. Our results provide a paradigm in developing strategies that can maximize the silver nanoparticle application potentials while minimizing the toxic effects.

  11. Self Assembly of Nano Metric Metallic Particles for Realization of Photonic and Electronic Nano Transistors

    PubMed Central

    Shahmoon, Asaf; Limon, Ofer; Girshevitz, Olga; Zalevsky, Zeev

    2010-01-01

    In this paper, we present the self assembly procedure as well as experimental results of a novel method for constructing well defined arrangements of self assembly metallic nano particles into sophisticated nano structures. The self assembly concept is based on focused ion beam (FIB) technology, where metallic nano particles are self assembled due to implantation of positive gallium ions into the insulating material (e.g., silica as in silicon on insulator wafers) that acts as intermediary layer between the substrate and the negatively charge metallic nanoparticles. PMID:20559513

  12. Method of producing carbon coated nano- and micron-scale particles

    DOEpatents

    Perry, W. Lee; Weigle, John C; Phillips, Jonathan

    2013-12-17

    A method of making carbon-coated nano- or micron-scale particles comprising entraining particles in an aerosol gas, providing a carbon-containing gas, providing a plasma gas, mixing the aerosol gas, the carbon-containing gas, and the plasma gas proximate a torch, bombarding the mixed gases with microwaves, and collecting resulting carbon-coated nano- or micron-scale particles.

  13. MD Simulation on Collision Behavior Between Nano-Scale TiO₂ Particles During Vacuum Cold Spraying.

    PubMed

    Yao, Hai-Long; Yang, Guan-Jun; Li, Chang-Jiu

    2018-04-01

    Particle collision behavior influences significantly inter-nano particle bonding formation during the nano-ceramic coating deposition by vacuum cold spraying (or aerosol deposition method). In order to illuminate the collision behavior between nano-scale ceramic particles, molecular dynamic simulation was applied to explore impact process between nano-scale TiO2 particles through controlling impact velocities. Results show that the recoil efficiency of the nano-scale TiO2 particle is decreased with the increase of the impact velocity. Nano-scale TiO2 particle exhibits localized plastic deformation during collision at low velocities, while it is intensively deformed by collision at high velocities. This intensive deformation promotes the nano-particle adhesion rather than rebounding off. A relationship between the adhesion energy and the rebound energy is established for the bonding formation of the nano-scale TiO2 particle. The adhesion energy required to the bonding formation between nano-scale ceramic particles can be produced by high velocity collision.

  14. Laboratory Assessment of Nano-Silver Transport in Sand Columns Using Complex Conductivity Measurements

    EPA Science Inventory

    Nano-materials are emerging into the global marketplace. Nano-particles, and other throwaway nano-devices may constitute a whole new class of non-biodegradable pollutants of which scientists have very little understanding. Therefore, the production of significant quantities of n...

  15. Nano polypeptide particles reinforced polymer composite fibers.

    PubMed

    Li, Jiashen; Li, Yi; Zhang, Jing; Li, Gang; Liu, Xuan; Li, Zhi; Liu, Xuqing; Han, Yanxia; Zhao, Zheng

    2015-02-25

    Because of the intensified competition of land resources for growing food and natural textile fibers, there is an urgent need to reuse and recycle the consumed/wasted natural fibers as regenerated green materials. Although polypeptide was extracted from wool by alkaline hydrolysis, the size of the polypeptide fragments could be reduced to nanoscale. The wool polypeptide particles were fragile and could be crushed down to nano size again and dispersed evenly among polymer matrix under melt extrusion condition. The nano polypeptide particles could reinforce antiultraviolet capability, moisture regain, and mechanical properties of the polymer-polypeptide composite fibers.

  16. Characterization and antimicrobial performance of nano silver coatings on leather materials

    PubMed Central

    Lkhagvajav, N.; Koizhaiganova, M.; Yasa, I.; Çelik, E.; Sari, Ö.

    2015-01-01

    In this study, the characterization and the antimicrobial properties of nano silver (nAg) coating on leather were investigated. For this purpose, turbidity, viscosity and pH of nAg solutions prepared by the sol-gel method were measured. The formation of films from these solutions was characterized according to temperature by Differential Thermal Analysis-Thermogravimetry (DTA-TG) equipment. The surface morphology of treated leathers was observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial performance of nAg coatings on leather materials to the test microorganisms as Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , Candida albicans and Aspergillius niger was evaluated by the application of qualitative (Agar overlay method) and quantitative (percentage of microbial reduction) tests. According to qualitative test results it was found that 20 μg/cm 2 and higher concentrations of nAg on the leather samples were effective against all microorganisms tested. Moreover, quantitative test results showed that leather samples treated with 20 μg/cm 2 of nAg demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against E. coli with 99.25% bacterium removal, whereas a 10 μg/cm 2 concentration of nAg on leather was enough to exhibit the excellent percentage reduction against S. aureus of 99.91%. The results are promising for the use of colloidal nano silver solution on lining leather as antimicrobial coating. PMID:26221087

  17. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for ionic silver and silver nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Bachler, Gerald; von Goetz, Natalie; Hungerbühler, Konrad

    2013-01-01

    Silver is a strong antibiotic that is increasingly incorporated into consumer products as a bulk, salt, or nanosilver, thus potentially causing side-effects related to human exposure. However, the fate and behavior of (nano)silver in the human body is presently not well understood. In order to aggregate the existing experimental information, a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model (PBPK) was developed in this study for ionic silver and nanosilver. The structure of the model was established on the basis of toxicokinetic data from intravenous studies. The number of calibrated parameters was minimized in order to enhance the predictive capability of the model. We validated the model structure for both silver forms by reproducing exposure conditions (dermal, oral, and inhalation) of in vivo experiments and comparing simulated and experimentally assessed organ concentrations. Therefore, the percutaneous, intestinal, or pulmonary absorption fraction was estimated based on the blood silver concentration of the respective experimental data set. In all of the cases examined, the model could successfully predict the biodistribution of ionic silver and 15–150 nm silver nanoparticles, which were not coated with substances designed to prolong the circulatory time (eg, polyethylene glycol). Furthermore, the results of our model indicate that: (1) within the application domain of our model, the particle size and coating had a minor influence on the biodistribution; (2) in vivo, it is more likely that silver nanoparticles are directly stored as insoluble salt particles than dissolve into Ag+; and (3) compartments of the mononuclear phagocytic system play a minor role in exposure levels that are relevant for human consumers. We also give an example of how the model can be used in exposure and risk assessments based on five different exposure scenarios, namely dietary intake, use of three separate consumer products, and occupational exposure. PMID:24039420

  18. [Effect of stability and dissolution of realgar nano-particles using solid dispersion technology].

    PubMed

    Guo, Teng; Shi, Feng; Yang, Gang; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2013-09-01

    To improve the stability and dissolution of realgar nano-particles by solid dispersion. Using polyethylene glycol 6000 and poloxamer-188 as carriers, the solid dispersions were prepare by melting method. XRD, microscopic inspection were used to determine the status of realgar nano-particles in solid dispersions. The content and stability test of As(2)0(3) were determined by DDC-Ag method. Hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine the content of Arsenic and investigated the in vitro dissolution behavior of solid dispersions. The results of XRD and microscopic inspection showed that realgar nano-particles in solid dispersions were amorphous. The dissolution amount and rate of Arsenic from realgar nano-particles of all solid dispersions were increased significantly, the reunion of realgar nano-particles and content of As(2)0(3) were reduced for the formation of solid dispersions. The solid dispersion of realgar nano-particles with poloxamer-188 as carriers could obviously improve stability, dissolution and solubility.

  19. Hypocrellin B and nano silver loaded polymeric nanoparticles: Enhanced generation of singlet oxygen for improved photodynamic therapy.

    PubMed

    Natesan, Subramanian; Krishnaswami, Venkateshwaran; Ponnusamy, Chandrasekar; Madiyalakan, Madi; Woo, Thomas; Palanisamy, Rajaguru

    2017-08-01

    A nanoparticulate photodynamic approach was employed with an objective to achieve enhanced production of singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ), for the management of posterior segment eye diseases like age related macular degeneration. The hypocrellin B (HB) loaded poly lactide-co-glycolide nanoparticle formulations were incorporated with nano silver (HBS-NPs). The optimized HBS-NPs contained 2.60±0.06mg/mL of HB and showed (i) 135.6 to 828.2nm size range, and (ii) negative zeta potential with a narrow polydispersity index. The DSC thermograms suggested the amorphous nature of HB inside the HBS-NPs. With the average encapsulation efficiency of 92.9±1.79%, the drug release from the HBS-NPs followed a biphasic pattern with an initial burst of 3.50% during first 8h followed by a sustained release of 47.82% within 3days. The interaction between nano silver and HB as assessed by the increase in spectral intensity of Raman spectrum demonstrates that HB may be attached over the nano silver. Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by HBS-NPs was significantly higher than that of HB/HB-NPs. The singlet oxygen generating efficiency assessed using EPR spectrometer follows the order of nano silver>HB-NPs>pure HB drug solution>HBS-NPs. The HBS-NPs had a concentration and time dependent phototoxicity on A549 (human adeno lung carcinoma) cells in the presence of light providing a superior phototoxic effect (82.2% at 50μM) at 2h irradiation. The CAM treated with HBS-NPs showed a significant anti-angiogenic effect compared to a blank formulation. In vivo biodistribution studies revealed that intravenous administration of HBS-NPs lead into significant exposure to the posterior segment of the eye. This proof of principle study demonstrates that HB based nanoparticles may be a valuable new tool for application in ocular photodynamic therapy for the treatment of AMD in future. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Rod-shaped silica particles derivatized with elongated silver nanoparticles immobilized within mesopores

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mnasri, Najib; Materials, Environment and Energy Laboratory; Charnay, Clarence

    Silver-derivatized silica particles possessing a non-spherical morphology and surface plasmon resonance properties have been achieved. Nanometer-sized silica rods with uniformly sized mesopore channels were prepared first making use of alkyltrimethyl ammonium surfactants as porogens and the 1:0.10 tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) : 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) mixture as a silicon source. Silica rods were subsequently functionalized by introducing elongated silver nanoparticles within the intra-particle mesopores thanks to the AgNO{sub 3} reduction procedure based on the action of hemiaminal groups previously located on the mesopore walls. The textural and structural features of the samples were inferred from the combined characterization studies including SEM andmore » TEM microscopy, nitrogen adsorption-desorption at 77 K, powder XRD in the small- and wide-angle region, as well as UV–visible spectroscopy. {sup 129}Xe NMR spectroscopy appeared particularly useful to obtain a correct information about the porous structure of rod-shaped silica particles and the silver incorporation within their intra-particle mesopores. - Highlights: • Mesoporous monodisperse submicron-sized silica rods were achieved. • Silver nanoparticles were located lengthwise within the intra-particle mesopores. • Textural and plasmonic properties of particles studied by {sup 129}Xe NMR and UV–Vis.« less

  1. Characterization of Antimicrobial Poly (Lactic Acid)/Nano-Composite Films with Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Chu, Zhuangzhuang; Zhao, Tianrui; Li, Lin; Fan, Jian; Qin, Yuyue

    2017-01-01

    Antimicrobial active films based on poly (lactic acid) (PLA) were prepared with nano-silver (nano-Ag) and nano-zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) using a solvent volatilizing method. The films were characterized for mechanical, structural, thermal, physical and antimicrobial properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images characterized the fracture morphology of the films with different contents of nano-Ag and nano-ZnO. The addition of nanoparticles into the pure PLA film decreased the tensile strength and elasticity modulus and increased the elongation of breaks—in other words, the flexibility and extensibility of these composites improved. According to the results of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the glass transition temperature of the PLA nano-composite films decreased, and the crystallinity of these films increased; a similar result was apparent from X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The water vapor permeability (WVP) and opacity of the PLA nano-composite films augmented compared with pure PLA film. Incorporation of nanoparticles to the PLA films significantly improved the antimicrobial activity to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli. The results indicated that PLA films with nanoparticles could be considered a potential environmental-friendly packaging material. PMID:28773018

  2. Synthesis and anti-fungal effect of silver nanoparticles–chitosan composite particles

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Lung-Shuo; Wang, Chih-Yu; Yang, Chih-Hui; Hsieh, Chen-Ling; Chen, Szu-Yu; Shen, Chi-Yen; Wang, Jia-Jung; Huang, Keng-Shiang

    2015-01-01

    Silver nanoparticles have been used in various fields, and several synthesis processes have been developed. The stability and dispersion of the synthesized nanoparticles is vital. The present article describes a novel approach for one-step synthesis of silver nanoparticles–embedded chitosan particles. The proposed approach was applied to simultaneously obtain and stabilize silver nanoparticles in a chitosan polymer matrix in-situ. The diameter of the synthesized chitosan composite particles ranged from 1.7 mm to 2.5 mm, and the embedded silver nanoparticles were measured to be 15±3.3 nm. Further, the analyses of ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction were employed to characterize the prepared composites. The results show that the silver nanoparticles were distributed over the surface and interior of the chitosan spheres. The fabricated spheres had macroporous property, and could be used for many applications such as fungicidal agents in the future. PMID:25878501

  3. Size Selective Green Synthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles: Enhanced Antibacterial Efficacy of Resveratrol Capped Silver Sol.

    PubMed

    Shukla, Shashi P; Roy, Mainak; Mukherjee, Poulomi; Das, Laboni; Neogy, Suman; Srivastava, Dinesh; Adhikari, Soumyakanti

    2016-03-01

    In view of potential biomedical application of the noble metal nanoparticles, we report a size controlled yet simple and green synthesis of resveratrol stabilized silver and gold nanoparticles having low polydispersity of size. Here, resveratrol plays two simultaneous roles, reducing the metal ions and providing efficient capping of the small nanoparticles. This gives rise to specific size of silver and gold nanoparticles at specific ratios of metal to resveratrol. The particles have been characterized by XRD and transmission electron microscopy. The nanoparticle sols are stable for months. The UV Visible absorption spectra of the silver sol show the plasmon peak of spherical nanoparticles, presence of which is further reflected in the TEM images. Size of the silver particles obtained is in between 11 to 21 nm depending on the ratio of resveratrol to metal ion used. Resveratrol capped silver nanoparticles exhibit high antibacterial activity against Gram negative wild type E coli BW (25113). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of nano-silver against the bacterium has been estimated to be 6.48 μg/ml, which is significantly lower than that reported in some earlier as well as recent publications. Reaction of gold ions with resveratrol, on the other hand, produces gold nanoparticles of sizes varying from 7 to 29 nm at different ratios of resveratrol to the metal ions. Particles with higher size and aspect ratio are formed at lower concentration of the capping agent whereas particles with very small size and pseudo-spherical morphology are formed at higher capping concentration. Difference in the formation kinetics of silver and gold nanoparticles has been attributed to the different growth mechanisms in the two cases. Possible modes of anchorage of resveratrol to silver nanoparticles have been investigated using surface enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERS) which shows that the silver nanoparticles are capped by resveratrol molecule primarily through O

  4. Preparation and Characterization of Pyrotechnics Binder-Coated Nano-Aluminum Composite Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ye, Mingquan; Zhang, Shuting; Liu, Songsong; Han, Aijun; Chen, Xin

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this article is to protect the activity of nano-aluminum (Al) particles in solid rocket propellants and pyrotechnics. The morphology, structure, active aluminum content, and thermal and catalytic properties of the coated samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), and oxidation-reduction titration methods. The results indicated that nano-Al particles could be effectively coated with phenolic resin (PF), fluororubber (Viton B), and shellac through a solvent/nonsolvent method. The energetic composite particles have core-shell structures and the thickness of the coating film is about 5-15 nm. Analysis of the active Al content revealed that Viton B coating had a much better protective effect. The TG-DSC results showed that the energy amount and energy release rate of PF-, Viton B-, and shellac-coated Al particles were larger than those of the raw nano-Al particles. The catalytic effects of coated Al particles on the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) were better than those of raw nano-Al particles, and the effect of shellac-coated Al particles was significantly better than that of Viton B-coated Al particles.

  5. Surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission of a silver nano-patterned photocathode

    DOE PAGES

    Zhang, Z.; Li, R.; To, H.; ...

    2016-11-22

    Here, nano-patterned photocathodes (NPC) take advantage of plasmonic effects to resonantly increase absorption of light and localize electromagnetic field intensity on metal surfaces leading to surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission. In this paper, we report the status of NPC research at UCLA including in particular the optimization of the dimensions of a nanohole array on a silver wafer to enhance plasmonic response at 800 nm light, the development of a spectrally-resolved reflectivity measurement setup for quick nanopattern validation, and of a novel cathode plug to enable high power tests of NPCs on single crystal substrates in a high gradient radiofrequency gun.

  6. Surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission of a silver nano-patterned photocathode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Z.; Li, R.; To, H.; Andonian, G.; Pirez, E.; Meade, D.; Maxson, J.; Musumeci, P.

    2017-09-01

    Nano-patterned photocathodes (NPC) take advantage of plasmonic effects to resonantly increase absorption of light and localize electromagnetic field intensity on metal surfaces leading to surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission. In this paper, we report the status of NPC research at UCLA including in particular the optimization of the dimensions of a nanohole array on a silver wafer to enhance plasmonic response at 800 nm light, the development of a spectrally-resolved reflectivity measurement setup for quick nanopattern validation, and of a novel cathode plug to enable high power tests of NPCs on single crystal substrates in a high gradient radiofrequency gun.

  7. Surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission of a silver nano-patterned photocathode

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhang, Z.; Li, R.; To, H.

    Here, nano-patterned photocathodes (NPC) take advantage of plasmonic effects to resonantly increase absorption of light and localize electromagnetic field intensity on metal surfaces leading to surface-plasmon enhanced photoemission. In this paper, we report the status of NPC research at UCLA including in particular the optimization of the dimensions of a nanohole array on a silver wafer to enhance plasmonic response at 800 nm light, the development of a spectrally-resolved reflectivity measurement setup for quick nanopattern validation, and of a novel cathode plug to enable high power tests of NPCs on single crystal substrates in a high gradient radiofrequency gun.

  8. Effect of silver nanoparticles on concentration of silver heavy element and growth indexes in cucumber ( Cucumis sativus L . negeen)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shams, Gholamabbas; Ranjbar, Morteza; Amiri, Aliasghar

    2013-05-01

    The tremendous progress on nanoparticle research area has been made significant effects on the economy, society, and the environment. Silver nanoparticle is one of the most important particles in these categories. Silver nanoparticles can be converted to the heavy silver metal in water by oxidation. Moreover, in the high amounts of silver concentration, they will be accumulated in different parts of the plant. However, by changing the morphology of the plant, the production will be harmful for human consumptions. In this study, nano-powders with average 50 nm silver particles are mixed with deionized distilled water in a completely randomized design. Seven treatments with various concentrations of suspension silver nanoparticles were prepared and repeated in four different parts of the plant in a regular program of spraying. Samples were analyzed to study the growth indexes and concentration of silver in different parts of the plant. It was observed that with increasing concentration of silver nanoparticles on cucumber, the growth indexes (except pH fruit), and the concentration of silver heavy metal are increased significantly. The incremental concentration had the linear relationship with correlation coefficient 0.95 and an average of 0.617 PPM by increasing of each unit in one thousand concentration of nanosilver. Although, by increasing concentration of silver nanoparticles as spraying form, the plant morphological characteristics were improved, the concentration of silver heavy metal in various plant organs was increased. These results open a new pathway to consider the effect of nanoparticles on plant's productions for human consumptions.

  9. Evaluation of minimum quantity lubrication grinding with nano-particles and recent related patents.

    PubMed

    Li, Changhe; Wang, Sheng; Zhang, Qiang; Jia, Dongzhou

    2013-06-01

    In recent years, a large number of patents have been devoted to developing minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) grinding techniques that can significantly improve both environmentally conscious and energy saving and costeffective sustainable grinding fluid alternatives. Among them, one patent is about a supply system for the grinding fluid in nano-particle jet MQL, which produced MQL lubricant by adding solid nano-particles in degradable grinding fluid. The MQL supply device turns the lubricant to the pulse drops with fixed pressure, unchanged pulse frequency and the same drop diameter. The drops will be produced and injected in the grinding zone in the form of jet flow under high pressure gas and air seal. As people become increasingly demanding on our environment, minimum quantity lubrication has been widely used in the grinding and processing. Yet, it presents the defect of insufficient cooling performance, which confines its development. To improve the heat transfer efficiency of MQL, nano-particles of a certain mass fraction can be added in the minimum quantity of lubricant oil, which concomitantly will improve the lubrication effects in the processing. In this study, the grinding experiment corroborated the effect of nano-particles in surface grinding. In addition, compared with other forms of lubrication, the results presented that the grinding force, the friction coefficient and specific grinding energy of MQL grinding have been significantly weakened, while G ratio greatly rose. These are attributed to the friction oil-film with excellent anti-friction and anti-wear performance, which is generated nano-particles at the wheel/workpiece interface. In this research, the cooling performance of nano-particle jet MQL was analyzed. Based on tests and experiments, the surface temperature was assayed from different methods, including flood lubricating oil, dry grinding, MQL grinding and nano-particle jet MQL grinding. Because of the outstanding heat transfer

  10. Synthesis and characterization of Al & SiCp nano particles by non-contact ultrasonic assisted method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Swain, Pradyut Kumar; Das, Ratnakar; Sahoo, Ashok Kumar; Naik, Bikash; Padhi, Payodhar

    2018-05-01

    The present study deals with proper mixing of SiCp nano particle in the aluminum metal matrix in two stages of processing i.e. primary and secondary. During primary processing, the breaking of agglomeration of nano particles take place and these are mixed with liquid aluminum powder using high frequency(35kHz) mechanical vibration. But, during secondary processing, mixing of nano particles along with subsequent cooling take place using high frequency non contact ultrasonic method. The study also reveals that in the liquid metal nano particle were uniformly dispersed and the segregation of the particles near the grain boundaries is due to pushing of the nano particle during grain growth. The study was performed by taking aluminum as matrix and SiCp as reinforcement with weight fraction of 2% and 3% and SiCp particles sizes of 30nm each. Scanning electron microscopy(SEM) and X-ray diffraction(XRD) were conducted for characterization of nano composite material.

  11. Antibacterial performance of nano polypropylene filter media containing nano-TiO2 and clay particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shafiee, Sara; Zarrebini, Mohammad; Naghashzargar, Elham; Semnani, Dariush

    2015-10-01

    Disinfection and elimination of pathogenic microorganisms from liquid can be achieved by filtration process using antibacterial filter media. The advent of nanotechnology has facilitated the introduction of membranes consisting of nano-fiber in filtration operations. The melt electro-spun fibers due to their extremely small diameters are used in the production of this particular filtration medium. In this work, antibacterial polypropylene filter medium containing clay particles and nano-TiO2 were made using melt electro-spun technology. Antibacterial performance of polypropylene nano-filters was evaluated using E. coli bacteria. Additionally, filtration efficiency of the samples in terms fiber diameter, filter porosity, and fiber distribution using image processing technique was determined. Air permeability and dust aerosol tests were conducted to establish the suitability of the samples as a filter medium. It was concluded that as far as antibacterial property is concerned, nano-fibers filter media containing clay particles are preferential to similar media containing TiO2 nanoparticles.

  12. An investigation of in vivo wound healing activity of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kaler, Abhishek; Mittal, Amit Kumar; Katariya, Mahesh; Harde, Harshad; Agrawal, Ashish Kumar; Jain, Sanyog; Banerjee, Uttam Chand

    2014-09-01

    Therapeutic use of nano-silver is claimed to have reduced side effects and enhanced curative activity as compared to its ionic counterpart (silver ions). The present work aims to screen microbes for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), to formulate the nano-silver-based Carbopol gel and evaluating its wound healing efficacy on rat model. The goal was to develop the topical formulation based on bio-nano-silver to control the infection and healing the wounds with higher efficacy. Procedure involved the use of Saccharomyces boulardii for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles in the size range of 3-10 nm and these nanoparticles were used for the preparation of Carbopol-based nano-silver gel. Highly stable Carbopol nanogel was developed with good rheological properties. The burn wound healing potential of this nano-silver gel was evaluated on SD rats via visual observation, transepidermal water loss and histology of skin. Excellent wound healing was observed with AgNPs. Biologically synthesized AgNPs-based nano-silver gel showed superior wound healing efficacy as compared to marketed formulations and silver ions.

  13. The shape conversion of silver nanoparticles through heating and its application as homogeneous catalyst in reduction of 4- nitrophenol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ariyanta, H. A.; Yulizar, Y.

    2016-02-01

    The shape conversion of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through heating and its application as a homogeneous catalyst in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol is reported here. Synthesis of AgNPs by reduction of AgNO3 using NaBH4 and sodium citrate as reducing agent were successfully conducted. The addition of PVP was used as stabilizing agent. The synthesized AgNPs were heated at 95 °C and observed using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and particle size analyzer (PSA). Characteristics of AgNPs before heated were blue with UV- Vis absorbance spectrum at λmax = 786 nm and the shape was pseudo nano prism sized ± 28 nm. During the heating process, the color changed gradually from blue (λmax = 786 nm) to orange (λmax = 486 nm) and also its shape from nano prism to nanodisk. Silver nano prism has a lattice constant, 4.160 Å, larger than the silver nanodisk, 4.081 Å, which was possibly achieved through rearrangement of silver atoms on the surface of AgNPs. Both silver nanodisk and nano prism were tested as a homogeneous catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4- NP) with NaBH4.

  14. The Entry of Nano-dust Particles into the Terrestrial Magnetosphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horanyi, M.; Juhasz, A.

    2016-12-01

    Nano-dust particles have been suggested to be responsible for spurious antenna signals on several spacecraft near 1 AU. Most of these tiny motes are generated in the solar vicinity where the collision-rate between larger inward migrating dust particles increases generating copious amounts of smaller dust grains. The vast majority of the dust grains is predicted to be lost to the Sun, but a fraction of them can be expelled by radiation pressure, and the solar wind plasma flow. Particles in the nano-meter size range can be incorporated in the solar wind, and arrive near 1 AU with characteristic speeds of approximately 400 km/s. Larger, but still submicron sized particles, that are expelled by radiation pressure, represent the so-called beta-meteoroid population. Both of these populations of dust particles can be detected by dedicated dust instruments near 1 AU. A fraction of these particles can also penetrate the terrestrial magnetosphere and possibly bombard spacecraft orbiting the Earth. This talk will explore the dynamics of nano-grains and beta-meteoroids entering the magnetosphere, and predict their spatial, mass and speed distributions as function of solar wind conditions.

  15. The Effect of Nano Loading and Ultrasonic Compounding of EVA/LDPE/Nano-magnesium Hydroxide on Mechanical Properties and Distribution of Nano Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azman, I. A.; Salleh, R. M.; Alauddin, S. M.; Shueb, M. I.

    2018-05-01

    Blends of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) are promising composite which have good mechanical properties to environmental stress cracking. However, they lack fire resistant properties, which limits it usage in wire and cable industry. In order to improve flame retardancy ability, a range of nano-magnesium hydroxide (nano-MH) loading which is from 0 phr to maximum of 20 phr with ultrasonic extrusion 0-100 kHz frequencies have been introduced. Ultrasonic extrusion was used to improve the distribution of nano-MH. It was found that, 10 phr of nano loading with 100 kHz ultrasonic assisted has greater tensile strength compared to the nanocomposite without ultrasonication. Further increase of nano MH loading, will decrease the tensile properties. Better elongation at break was observed at10 phr nano-MH with the frequency of 50 kHz. The sample of 20 phr of nanoMH assisted with 50 kHz ultrasonic exhibits good flexural properties while 10 phr of nano-MH without the ultrasonic assisted demonstrates good in izod impact properties. From the evaluation of mechanical properties studied, it was found that 10 phr of nano-MH has shown the best performance among all the samples tested for EVA/LDPE/nano-MH composites. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) has been conducted on 10 phr sample with different frequencies in order to observe the distribution of nano-MH particles. The sample with 100 kHz frequency shows more uniform dispersion of nano-MH in EVA/LDPE composites. This investigation indicates that the ultrasonic technology can enhance the mechanical properties studied as well as the dispersion of nano particles in the composite.

  16. Comparison on exfoliated graphene nano-sheets and triturated graphite nano-particles for mode-locking the Erbium-doped fibre lasers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Chun-Yu; Lin, Yung-Hsiang; Wu, Chung-Lun; Cheng, Chih-Hsien; Tsai, Din-Ping; Lin, Gong-Ru

    2018-06-01

    Comparisons on exfoliated graphene nano-sheets and triturated graphite nano-particles for mode-locking the Erbium-doped fiber lasers (EDFLs) are performed. As opposed to the graphite nano-particles obtained by physically triturating the graphite foil, the tri-layer graphene nano-sheets is obtained by electrochemically exfoliating the graphite foil. To precisely control the size dispersion and the layer number of the exfoliated graphene nano-sheet, both the bias of electrochemical exfoliation and the speed of centrifugation are optimized. Under a threshold exfoliation bias of 3 volts and a centrifugation at 1000 rpm, graphene nano-sheets with an average diameter of 100  ±  40 nm can be obtained. The graphene nano-sheets with an area density of 15 #/µm2 are directly imprinted onto the end-face of a single-mode fiber made patchcord connector inside the EDFL cavity. Such electrochemically exfoliated graphene nano-sheets show comparable saturable absorption with standard single-graphene and perform the self-amplitude modulation better than physically triturated graphite nano-particles. The linear transmittance and modulation depth of the inserted graphene nano-sheets are 92.5% and 53%, respectively. Under the operation with a power gain of 21.5 dB, the EDFL can be passively mode-locked to deliver a pulsewidth of 454.5 fs with a spectral linewidth of 5.6 nm. The time-bandwidth product of 0.31 is close to the transform limit. The Kelly sideband frequency spacing of 1.34 THz is used to calculate the chirp coefficient as  ‑0.0015.

  17. Attachment of micro- and nano-particles on tipless cantilevers for colloidal probe microscopy.

    PubMed

    D'Sa, Dexter J; Chan, Hak-Kim; Chrzanowski, Wojciech

    2014-07-15

    Current colloidal probe preparation techniques face several challenges in the production of functional probes using particles ⩽5 μm. Challenges include: glue encapsulated particles, glue altered particle properties, improper particle or agglomerate attachment, and lengthy procedures. We present a method to rapidly and reproducibly produce functional micro and nano-colloidal probes. Using a six-step procedure, cantilevers mounted on a custom designed 45° holder were used to approach and obtain a minimal amount of epoxy resin (viscosity of ∼14,000 cP) followed by a single micron/nano particle on the apex of a tipless cantilever. The epoxy and particles were prepared on individual glass slides and subsequently affixed to a 10× or 40× optical microscope lens using another custom designed holder. Scanning electron microscopy and comparative glue-colloidal probe measurements were used to confirm colloidal probe functionality. The method presented allowed rapid and reproducible production of functional colloidal probes (80% success). Single nano-particles were prominently affixed to the apex of the cantilever, unaffected by the epoxy. Nano-colloidal probes were used to conduct topographical, instantaneous force, and adhesive force mapping measurements in dry and liquid media conveying their versatility and functionality in studying nano-colloidal systems. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Airflow structures and nano-particle deposition in a human upper airway model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Z.; Kleinstreuer, C.

    2004-07-01

    Considering a human upper airway model, or equivalently complex internal flow conduits, the transport and deposition of nano-particles in the 1-150 nm diameter range are simulated and analyzed for cyclic and steady flow conditions. Specifically, using a commercial finite-volume software with user-supplied programs as a solver, the Euler-Euler approach for the fluid-particle dynamics is employed with a low-Reynolds-number k- ω model for laminar-to-turbulent airflow and the mass transfer equation for dispersion of nano-particles or vapors. Presently, the upper respiratory system consists of two connected segments of a simplified human cast replica, i.e., the oral airways from the mouth to the trachea (Generation G0) and an upper tracheobronchial tree model of G0-G3. Experimentally validated computational fluid-particle dynamics results show the following: (i) transient effects in the oral airways appear most prominently during the decelerating phase of the inspiratory cycle; (ii) selecting matching flow rates, total deposition fractions of nano-size particles for cyclic inspiratory flow are not significantly different from those for steady flow; (iii) turbulent fluctuations which occur after the throat can persist downstream to at least Generation G3 at medium and high inspiratory flow rates (i.e., Qin⩾30 l/min) due to the enhancement of flow instabilities just upstream of the flow dividers; however, the effects of turbulent fluctuations on nano-particle deposition are quite minor in the human upper airways; (iv) deposition of nano-particles occurs to a relatively greater extent around the carinal ridges when compared to the straight tubular segments in the bronchial airways; (v) deposition distributions of nano-particles vary with airway segment, particle size, and inhalation flow rate, where the local deposition is more uniformly distributed for large-size particles (say, dp=100 nm) than for small-size particles (say, dp=1 nm); (vi) dilute 1 nm particle

  19. Toxicity of nano- and micro-sized silver particles in human hepatocyte cell line L02

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Pengpeng; Guan, Rongfa; Ye, Xingqian; Jiang, Jiaxin; Liu, Mingqi; Huang, Guangrong; Chen, Xiaoting

    2011-07-01

    Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) previously classified as antimicrobial agents have been widely used in consumers and industrial products, especially food storage material. Ag NPs used as antimicrobial agents may be found in liver. Thus, examination of the ability of Ag NPs to penetrate the liver is warranted. The aim of the study was to determine the optimal viability assay for using with Ag NPs in order to assess their toxicity to liver cells. For toxicity evaluations, cellular morphology, mitochondrial function (3-(4, 5-dimethylazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide, MTT assay), membrane leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH release assay), Oxidative stress markers (malonaldehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)), DNA damage (single cell gel eletrophoresis, SCGE assay), and protein damage were assessed under control and exposed conditions (24 h of exposure). The results showed that mitochondrial function decreased significantly in cells exposed to Ag NPs at 25 μg·mL-1. LDH leakage significantly increased in cells exposed to Ag NPs (>= 25 μg mL-1) while micro-sized silver particles tested displayed LDH leakage only at higher doses (100 μg·mL-1). The microscopic studies demonstrated that nanoparticle-exposed cells at higher doses became abnormal in size, displaying cellular shrinkage, and an acquisition of an irregular shape. Due to toxicity of silver, further study conducted with reference to its oxidative stress. The results exhibited significant depletion of GSH level, increase in SOD levels and lead to lipid peroxidation, which suggested that cytotoxicity of Ag NPs in liver cells might be mediated through oxidative stress. The results demonstrates that Ag NPs lead to cellular morphological modifications, LDH leakage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cause increased generation of ROS, depletion of GSH, lipid peroxidation, oxidative DNA damage and protein damage. Though the exact mechanism behind Ag NPs

  20. Rapid detection of salmonella using SERS with silver nano-substrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sundaram, J.; Park, B.; Hinton, A., Jr.; Windham, W. R.; Yoon, S. C.; Lawrence, K. C.

    2011-06-01

    Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) can detect the pathogen in rapid and accurate. In SERS weak Raman scattering signals are enhanced by many orders of magnitude. In this study silver metal with biopolymer was used. Silver encapsulated biopolymer polyvinyl alcohol nano-colloid was prepared and deposited on stainless steel plate. This was used as metal substrate for SERS. Salmonella typhimurium a common food pathogen was selected for this study. Salmonella typhimurium bacteria cells were prepared in different concentrations in cfu/mL. Small amount of these cells were loaded on the metal substrate individually, scanned and spectra were recorded using confocal Raman microscope. The cells were exposed to laser diode at 785 nm excitation and object 50x was used to focus the laser light on the sample. Raman shifts were obtained from 400 to 2400 cm-1. Multivariate data analysis was carried to predict the concentration of unknown sample using its spectra. Concentration prediction gave an R2 of 0.93 and standard error of prediction of 0.21. The results showed that it could be possible to find out the Salmonella cells present in a low concentration in food samples using SERS.

  1. The role of nano-particles in the field of thermal spray coating technology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Siegmann, Stephan; Leparoux, Marc; Rohr, Lukas

    2005-06-01

    Nano-particles play not only a key role in recent research fields, but also in the public discussions about health and safety in nanotechnology. Nevertheless, the worldwide activities in nano-particles research increased dramatically during the last 5 to 10 years. There are different potential routes for the future production of nano-particles at large scale. The main directions envisaged are mechanical milling, wet chemical reactions or gas phase processes. Each of the processes has its specific advantages and limitations. Mechanical milling and wet chemical reactions are typically time intensive and batch processes, whereas gas phase productions by flames or plasma can be carried out continuously. Materials of interest are mainly oxide ceramics, carbides, nitrides, and pure metals. Nano-ceramics are interesting candidates for coating technologies due to expected higher coating toughness, better thermal shock and wear resistance. Especially embedded nano-carbides and-nitrides offer homogenously distributed hard phases, which enhance coatings hardness. Thermal spraying, a nearly 100 years old and world wide established coating technology, gets new possibilities thanks to optimized, nano-sized and/or nano-structured powders. Latest coating system developments like high velocity flame spraying (HVOF), cold gas deposition or liquid suspension spraying in combination with new powder qualities may open new applications and markets. This article gives an overview on the latest activities in nano-particle research and production in special relation to thermal spray coating technology.

  2. Exposure assessment of nano-sized and respirable particles at different workplaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tsai, Chuen-Jinn; Huang, Cheng-Yu; Chen, Sheng-Chieh; Ho, Chi-En; Huang, Cheng-Hsiung; Chen, Chun-Wan; Chang, Cheng-Ping; Tsai, Su-Jung; Ellenbecker, Michael J.

    2011-09-01

    In this study, nanoparticle (NP, diameter < 100 nm) and respirable particles measurements were conducted at three different nanopowder workplaces, including the mixing area of a nano-SiO2-epoxy molding compound plant (primary diameter: 15 nm), bagging areas of a nano-carbon black (nano-CB) (primary diameter: 32 nm) and a nano-CaCO3 (primary diameter: 94 nm) manufacturing plant. Chemical analysis of respirable particle mass (RPM) and NPs was performed to quantify the content of manufactured nanoparticles in the collected samples. Nanopowder products obtained from the plants were used in the laboratory dustiness testing using a rotating drum tester to obtain particle mass and number distributions. The obtained laboratory data were then used to elucidate the field data. Both field and laboratory data showed that NP number and mass concentrations of manufactured materials were close to the background level. Number concentration was elevated only for particles with the electrical mobility diameter >100 nm during bagging or feeding processes, unless there were combustion-related incidental sources existed. Large fraction of nanomaterials was found in the RPM due to agglomeration of nanomaterials or attachment of nanomaterials to the larger particles. From this study, it is concluded that RPM concentration measurements are necessary for the exposure assessment of nanoparticles in workplaces.

  3. Visualisation of morphological interaction of diamond and silver nanoparticles with Salmonella Enteritidis and Listeria monocytogenes.

    PubMed

    Sawosz, Ewa; Chwalibog, André; Mitura, Katarzyna; Mitura, Stanisław; Szeliga, Jacek; Niemiec, Tomasz; Rupiewicz, Marlena; Grodzik, Marta; Sokołowska, Aleksandra

    2011-09-01

    Currently, medicine intensively searches for methods to transport drugs to a target (sick) point within the body. The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate morphological characteristics of the assembles of silver or diamond nanoparticles with Salmonella Enteritidis (G-) or Listeria monocytogenes (G+), to reveal possibilities of constructing nanoparticle-bacteria vehicles. Diamond nanoparticles (nano-D) were produced by the detonation method. Hydrocolloids of silver nanoparticles (nano-Ag) were produced by electric non-explosive patented method. Hydrocolloids of nanoparticles (200 microl) were added to bacteria suspension (200 microl) in the following order: nano-D + Salmonella E.; nano-D + Listeria monocytogenes; nano-Ag + Salmonella E; nano-Ag + Listeria monocytogenes. Samples were inspected by transmission electron microscopy. Visualisation of nanoparticles and bacteria interaction showed harmful effects of both nanoparticles on bacteria morphology. The most spectacular effect of nano-D were strong links between nano-D packages and the flagella of Salmonella E. Nano-Ag were closely attached to Listeria monocytogenes but not to Salmonella E. There was no evidence of entering nano-Ag inside Listeria monocytogenes but smaller particles were placed inside Salmonella E. The ability of nano-D to attach to the flagella and the ability of nano-Ag to penetrate inside bacteria cells can be utilized to design nano-bacteria vehicles, being carriers for active substances attached to nanoparticles.

  4. Durable antibacterial and cross-linking cotton with colloidal silver nanoparticles and butane tetracarboxylic acid without yellowing.

    PubMed

    Montazer, Majid; Alimohammadi, Farbod; Shamei, Ali; Rahimi, Mohammad Karim

    2012-01-01

    Colloidal nano silver was applied on the surface of cotton fabric and stabilized using 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA). The two properties of antimicrobial activity and resistance against creasing were imparted to the samples of fabric as a result of the treatment with silver nano colloid and BTCA. The antimicrobial property of samples was evaluated using two pathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus as outstanding barometers in this field. The durability of applied nanoparticles, color variation, wettability and wrinkle recovery angle of the treated samples were investigated employing related credible standards. The presence of nano silver particles on the surface of treated cotton fabric was proved using EDS spectrum as well as the SEM images. Furthermore, the creation of cross-links was confirmed by the means of both ATR-FTIR and Raman spectra. In conclusion, it was observed that BTCA plays a prominent role in stabilizing silver nanoparticle. Besides, Wettability and winkle recovery angle of finished samples decreased and increased, respectively. In addition, it is noteworthy that no obvious color variation was observed. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Silver Eco-Solvent Ink for Reactive Printing of Polychromatic SERS and SPR Substrates.

    PubMed

    Dustov, Mavlavi; Golovina, Diana I; Polyakov, Alexander Yu; Goldt, Anastasia E; Eliseev, Andrei A; Kolesnikov, Efim A; Sukhorukova, Irina V; Shtansky, Dmitry V; Grünert, Wolfgang; Grigorieva, Anastasia V

    2018-02-09

    A new reactive ink based on a silver citrate complex is proposed for a photochemical route to surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy active substrates with controllable extinction spectra. The drop-cast test of the ink reveals homogeneous nucleation of silver and colloid particle growth originating directly from photochemical in situ reduction in droplets, while the following evaporation of the deposited ink produces small nano- and micron-size particles. The prepared nanostructures and substrates were accurately characterized by electron microscopy methods and optical extinction spectroscopy. Varying the duration of UV irradiation allows tuning the morphology of individual silver nanoparticles forming hierarchical ring structures with numerous "hot spots" for most efficient Raman enhancement. Raman measurements of probe molecules of rhodamine 6G and methylene blue reached the largest signal enhancement of 10⁶ by the resonance effects.

  6. Effects of nano-SiO(2) and different ash particle sizes on sludge ash-cement mortar.

    PubMed

    Lin, K L; Chang, W C; Lin, D F; Luo, H L; Tsai, M C

    2008-09-01

    The effects of nano-SiO(2) on three ash particle sizes in mortar were studied by replacing a portion of the cement with incinerated sewage sludge ash. Results indicate that the amount of water needed at standard consistency increased as more nano-SiO(2) was added. Moreover, a reduction in setting time became noticeable for smaller ash particle sizes. The compressive strength of the ash-cement mortar increased as more nano-SiO(2) was added. Additionally, with 2% nano-SiO(2) added and a cure length of 7 days, the compressive strength of the ash-cement mortar with 1 microm ash particle size was about 1.5 times better that of 75microm particle size. Further, nano-SiO(2) functioned to fill pores for ash-cement mortar with different ash particle sizes. However, the effects of this pore-filling varied with ash particle size. Higher amounts of nano-SiO(2) better influenced the ash-cement mortar with larger ash particle sizes.

  7. [Preparation and characterization of magnetic nano-particles with radiofrequency-induced hyperthermia for cancer treatment].

    PubMed

    Fan, Xiangshan; Zhang, Dongsheng; Zheng, Jie; Gu, Ning; Ding, Anwei; Jia, Xiupeng; Qing, Hongyun; Jin, Liqiang; Wan, Meiling; Li, Qunhui

    2006-08-01

    Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nano-particles were prepared by the chemical co-precipitation, their characteristics were observed with transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and thermal analysis system, and etc. The temperature changes of the nano-particles of Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 and its magnetic fluid explored in radiofrequency(RF,200 KHz, 4 KW) were measured. The proliferation ratio of L929 cells cultured in soak of Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 nano-particles were observed. The experiment indicates that the magnetic particles were about 40 nm diameter in average, round, had strong magnetism, and were proved to be consistent with the standard data of chart of XRD. Its magnetic fluid exposed to RF could be heated up to temperature range from 40 degrees C to 51 degrees C due to the amount of the magnetic nano-particles and intensity of the alternating magnetic field. Magnetic nano-particles were found to have no obvious cytotoxicity to L929 cells.

  8. Silver metal nano-matrixes as high efficiency and versatile catalytic reactors for environmental remediation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dumée, Ludovic F.; Yi, Zhifeng; Tardy, Blaise; Merenda, Andrea; Des Ligneris, Elise; Dagastine, Ray R.; Kong, Lingxue

    2017-03-01

    Nano-porous metallic matrixes (NMMs) offer superior surface to volume ratios as well as enhanced optical, photonic, and electronic properties to bulk metallic materials. Such behaviours are correlated to the nano-scale inter-grain metal domains that favour the presence of electronic vacancies. In this work, continuous 3D NMMs were synthesized for the first time through a simple diffusion-reduction process whereby the aerogel matrix was functionalized with (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane. The surface energy of the silica monolith templates was tuned to improve the homogeneity of the reduction process while thiol functionalization facilitated the formation of a high density of seeding points for metal ions to reduce. The diameter of NMMs was between 2 and 1000 nm, corresponding to a silver loading between 1.23 and 41.16 at.%. A rates of catalytic degradation kinetics of these NMMS which is three orders of magnitude higher than those of the non-functionalized silver-silica structures. Furthermore, the enhancement in mechanical stability at nanoscale which was evaluated by Atomic Force Microscopy force measurements, electronic density and chemical inertness was assessed and critically correlated to their catalytic potential. This strategy opens up new avenues for design of complex architectures of either single or multi-metal alloy NMMs with enhanced surface properties for various applications.

  9. Silver metal nano-matrixes as high efficiency and versatile catalytic reactors for environmental remediation

    PubMed Central

    Dumée, Ludovic F.; Yi, Zhifeng; Tardy, Blaise; Merenda, Andrea; des Ligneris, Elise; Dagastine, Ray R.; Kong, Lingxue

    2017-01-01

    Nano-porous metallic matrixes (NMMs) offer superior surface to volume ratios as well as enhanced optical, photonic, and electronic properties to bulk metallic materials. Such behaviours are correlated to the nano-scale inter-grain metal domains that favour the presence of electronic vacancies. In this work, continuous 3D NMMs were synthesized for the first time through a simple diffusion-reduction process whereby the aerogel matrix was functionalized with (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane. The surface energy of the silica monolith templates was tuned to improve the homogeneity of the reduction process while thiol functionalization facilitated the formation of a high density of seeding points for metal ions to reduce. The diameter of NMMs was between 2 and 1000 nm, corresponding to a silver loading between 1.23 and 41.16 at.%. A rates of catalytic degradation kinetics of these NMMS which is three orders of magnitude higher than those of the non-functionalized silver-silica structures. Furthermore, the enhancement in mechanical stability at nanoscale which was evaluated by Atomic Force Microscopy force measurements, electronic density and chemical inertness was assessed and critically correlated to their catalytic potential. This strategy opens up new avenues for design of complex architectures of either single or multi-metal alloy NMMs with enhanced surface properties for various applications. PMID:28332602

  10. Deposition of ultrafine (nano) particles in the human lung.

    PubMed

    Asgharian, Bahman; Price, Owen T

    2007-10-01

    Increased production of industrial devices constructed with nanostructured materials raises the possibility of environmental and occupational human exposure with consequent adverse health effects. Ultrafine (nano) particles are suspected of having increased toxicity due to their size characteristics that serve as carrier transports. For this reason, it is critical to refine and improve existing deposition models in the nano-size range. A mathematical model of nanoparticle transport by airflow convection, axial diffusion, and convective mixing (dispersion) was developed in realistic stochastically generated asymmetric human lung geometries. The cross-sectional averaged convective-diffusion equation was solved analytically to find closed-form solutions for particle concentration and losses per lung airway. Airway losses were combined to find lobar, regional, and total lung deposition. Axial transport by diffusion and dispersion was found to have an effect on particle deposition. The primary impact was in the pulmonary region of the lung for particles larger than 10 nm in diameter. Particles below 10 nm in diameter were effectively removed from the inhaled air in the tracheobronchial region with little or no penetration into the pulmonary region. Significant variation in deposition was observed when different asymmetric lung geometries were used. Lobar deposition was found to be highest in the left lower lobe. Good agreement was found between predicted depositions of ultrafine (nano) particles with measurements in the literature. The approach used in the proposed model is recommended for more realistic assessment of regional deposition of diffusion-dominated particles in the lung, as it provides a means to more accurately relate exposure and dose to lung injury and other biological responses.

  11. Micro/nano-particles and Cells: Manipulation, Transport, and Self-assembly

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-10-23

    SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: Technologies that control nano- and micron- sized inert as well as biological materials are crucial to realizing engineered...that control nano- and micron- sized inert as well as biological materials are crucial to realizing engineered systems that can assemble, transport, and...nano-scale particles offer several advantages as building blocks of artificial materials . The relative ease of modifying their charge states

  12. NanoXCT: a novel technique to probe the internal architecture of pharmaceutical particles.

    PubMed

    Wong, Jennifer; D'Sa, Dexter; Foley, Matthew; Chan, John Gar Yan; Chan, Hak-Kim

    2014-11-01

    To demonstrate the novel application of nano X-ray computed tomography (NanoXCT) for visualizing and quantifying the internal structures of pharmaceutical particles. An Xradia NanoXCT-100, which produces ultra high-resolution and non-destructive imaging that can be reconstructed in three-dimensions (3D), was used to characterize several pharmaceutical particles. Depending on the particle size of the sample, NanoXCT was operated in Zernike Phase Contrast (ZPC) mode using either: 1) large field of view (LFOV), which has a two-dimensional (2D) spatial resolution of 172 nm; or 2) high resolution (HRES) that has a resolution of 43.7 nm. Various pharmaceutical particles with different physicochemical properties were investigated, including raw (2-hydroxypropyl)-beta-cyclodextrin (HβCD), poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles, and spray-dried particles that included smooth and nanomatrix bovine serum albumin (BSA), lipid-based carriers, and mannitol. Both raw HβCD and PLGA microparticles had a network of voids, whereas spray-dried smooth BSA and mannitol generally had a single void. Lipid-based carriers and nanomatrix BSA particles resulted in low quality images due to high noise-to-signal ratio. The quantitative capabilities of NanoXCT were also demonstrated where spray-dried mannitol was found to have an average void volume of 0.117 ± 0.247 μm(3) and average void-to-material percentage of 3.5%. The single PLGA particle had values of 1993 μm(3) and 59.3%, respectively. This study reports the first series of non-destructive 3D visualizations of inhalable pharmaceutical particles. Overall, NanoXCT presents a powerful tool to dissect and observe the interior of pharmaceutical particles, including those of a respirable size.

  13. Fluorescence Quenching of Humic Acid by Coated Metallic Silver Particles.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Guocheng; Yin, Jun

    2017-07-01

    Natural organic matter is an important component of the aquatic environments, which has attracted wide attention to its influence of interaction with other pollutants. The present work aimed to investigate its fluorescence quenching (FQ) by coated metallic silver particles (AgNPs). In this work, using fluorescence spectroscopy in conjunction with UV-Vis spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering, the effect of coated AgNPs on fluorescence quenching intensity (FQI) of humic acid (HA) was assessed. In addition, the influence of electrolytes (NaCl, NaNO 3 and CaNO 3 ) in the FQI was observed. Results showed that with AgNPs dosage increased (>1.17X10 -3  mM), fluorescence quantum yield of HA gradually decreased, which implies that the FQ occurred. Furher observation showed that the FQ process followed both first-order and second-order Stern-Volmer functions. The FQ process was affected by the electrolytes: NaCl had an effect on reduction of FQI, possibly resulting from dissolution of AgNPs; Both of NaNO 3 and Ca(NO 3 ) 2 had an effect on the FQ of HA but Ca(NO 3 ) 2 presented greater degree. As a result, the FQ degree of HA by alone electrolyte was listed in descent order as Ca(NO 3 ) 2  > NaNO 3  > NaCl, which also implies the subsequent experimental results, indicating the FQ degree of HA by mutual electrolytes as Ca(NO 3 ) 2  + NaNO 3  > Ca(NO 3 ) 2  + NaCl > NaNO 3  + NaCl.

  14. Synergy between Printex nano-carbons and silver nanoparticles for sensitive estimation of antioxidant activity.

    PubMed

    Raymundo-Pereira, Paulo A; Campos, Anderson M; Prado, Thiago M; Furini, Leonardo N; Boas, Naiza V; Calegaro, Marcelo L; Machado, Sergio A S

    2016-07-05

    We report on the synthesis, characterization and applications of a Printex L6 carbon-silver hybrid nanomaterial (PC-Ag), which was obtained using a polyol method. In addition, we also highlight the use of Printex L6 nano-carbon as a much cheaper alternative to the use of carbon nanotubes and graphene. The silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were prepared directly on the surface of the Printex 6L carbon "nanocarbon" material using ethylene glycol as the reducing agent. The hybrid nanomaterial was characterized by High-angle annular dark-field transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), Raman spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Optimized electrocatalytic activity on glassy carbon electrode was reached for the architecture GC/PC-Ag, the silver nanoparticles with size ranging between 1 and 2 nm were well-distributed throughout the hybrid material. The synergy between PC nano-carbons and AgNPs was verified by detection of gallic acid (GA) at a low applied potential (0.091 V vs. Ag/AgCl). GA detection was performed in a concentration range between 5.0 × 10(-7) and 8.5 × 10(-6) mol L(-1), with a detection limit of 6.63 × 10(-8) mol L(-1) (66.3 nmol L(-1)), which is considerably lower than similar devices. The approach for fabricating the reproducible GC/PC-Ag electrodes is entirely generic and may be explored for other types of (bio)sensors and devices. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Synthesis of Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with Antibacterial Activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Campillo Gloria, E.; Ederley, Vélez; Gladis, Morales; César, Hincapié; Jaime, Osorio; Oscar, Arnache; Uribe José, Ignacio; Franklin, Jaramillo

    2017-06-01

    The synthesis of nanomaterials is currently one of the most active in nanoscience branches; especially those help improve the human quality life. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are an example of this as it is known to have inhibitory and bactericidal effects. In this work, we report the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by chemical reduction method of silver nitrate (AgNO3) from aqueous solution, using a mix of polivinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) - Aloe Vera as reducing agent and for stabilization and control of particle size. Silver nanoparticles obtained were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), UV-visible spectroscopy and measurements using Zetasizer Nano ZS were applied to size estimation. The existence of surface plasmon resonance peak at λmax ~ 420 nm is evidence of silver nanoparticles formation. It was possible to standardize an appropriate protocol for the evaluation of bactericidal activity of the nanoparticles, for mesophilic microorganisms. Bactericidal activity above 90% against these kinds of bacteria was demonstrated.

  16. Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles in testicular cells.

    PubMed

    Asare, Nana; Instanes, Christine; Sandberg, Wiggo J; Refsnes, Magne; Schwarze, Per; Kruszewski, Marcin; Brunborg, Gunnar

    2012-01-27

    Serious concerns have been expressed about potential risks of engineered nanoparticles. Regulatory health risk assessment of such particles has become mandatory for the safe use of nanomaterials in consumer products and medicines; including the potential effects on reproduction and fertility, are relevant for this risk evaluation. In this study, we examined effects of silver particles of nano- (20nm) and submicron- (200nm) size, and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO(2)-NPs; 21nm), with emphasis on reproductive cellular- and genotoxicity. Ntera2 (NT2, human testicular embryonic carcinoma cell line), and primary testicular cells from C57BL6 mice of wild type (WT) and 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase knock-out (KO, mOgg1(-/-)) genotype were exposed to the particles. The latter mimics the repair status of human testicular cells vs oxidative damage and is thus a suitable model for human male reproductive toxicity studies. The results suggest that silver nano- and submicron-particles (AgNPs) are more cytotoxic and cytostatic compared to TiO(2)-NPs, causing apoptosis, necrosis and decreased proliferation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The 200nm AgNPs in particular appeared to cause a concentration-dependent increase in DNA-strand breaks in NT2 cells, whereas the latter response did not seem to occur with respect to oxidative purine base damage analysed with any of the particles tested. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Characterization of cap-shaped silver particles for surface-enhanced fluorescence effects.

    PubMed

    Yamaguchi, Tetsuji; Kaya, Takatoshi; Takei, Hiroyuki

    2007-05-15

    Surface-enhanced fluorescence has potentially many desirable properties as an analytical method for medical diagnostics, but the effect observed so far is rather modest and only in conjunction with fluorophores with low quantum yields. Coupled with the fact that preparation of suitable surfaces at low costs has been difficult, this has limited its utilities. Here we report a novel method for forming uniform and reproducible surfaces with respectable enhancement ratios even for high-quantum-yield fluorophores. Formation of dense surface-adsorbed latex spheres on a flat surface via partial aggregation, followed by evaporation of silver, results in a film consisting of cap-shaped silver particles at high densities. Binding of fluorescence biomolecules, either through physisorption or antigen-antibody reaction, was performed, and enhancements close to 50 have been observed with fluorophores such as R-phycoerythrin and Alexa 546-labeled, bovine serum albumin, both of which have quantum yields around 0.8. We attribute this to the unique shape of the silver particle and the presence of abundant gaps among adjacent particles at high densities. The effectiveness of the new surface is also demonstrated with IL-6 sandwich assays.

  18. ENGINEERING NANO- AND MICRO-PARTICLES TO TUNE IMMUNITY

    PubMed Central

    Moon, James J.; Irvine, Darrell J.; Huang, Bonnie

    2013-01-01

    The immune system can be a cure or cause of disease, fulfilling a protective role in attacking cancer or pathogenic microbes but also causing tissue destruction in autoimmune disorders. Thus, therapies aimed to amplify or suppress immune reactions are of great interest. However, the complex regulation of the immune system, coupled with the potential systemic side effects associated with traditional systemic drug therapies, has presented a major hurdle for the development of successful immunotherapies,. Recent progress in the design of synthetic micro- and nano-particles that can target drugs, deliver imaging agents, or stimulate immune cells directly through their physical and chemical properties is leading to new approaches to deliver vaccines, promote immune responses against tumors, and suppress autoimmunity. In addition, novel strategies, such as the use of particle-laden immune cells as living targeting agents for drugs, are providing exciting new approaches for immunotherapy. This progress report describes recent advances in the design of micro- and nano-particles in immunotherapies and diagnostics. PMID:22641380

  19. Silver Eco-Solvent Ink for Reactive Printing of Polychromatic SERS and SPR Substrates

    PubMed Central

    Dustov, Mavlavi; Goldt, Anastasia E.; Sukhorukova, Irina V.; Grünert, Wolfgang; Grigorieva, Anastasia V.

    2018-01-01

    A new reactive ink based on a silver citrate complex is proposed for a photochemical route to surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy active substrates with controllable extinction spectra. The drop-cast test of the ink reveals homogeneous nucleation of silver and colloid particle growth originating directly from photochemical in situ reduction in droplets, while the following evaporation of the deposited ink produces small nano- and micron-size particles. The prepared nanostructures and substrates were accurately characterized by electron microscopy methods and optical extinction spectroscopy. Varying the duration of UV irradiation allows tuning the morphology of individual silver nanoparticles forming hierarchical ring structures with numerous “hot spots” for most efficient Raman enhancement. Raman measurements of probe molecules of rhodamine 6G and methylene blue reached the largest signal enhancement of 106 by the resonance effects. PMID:29425119

  20. Fabrication, Characterization, and Biological Activity of Avermectin Nano-delivery Systems with Different Particle Sizes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Anqi; Wang, Yan; Sun, Changjiao; Wang, Chunxin; Cui, Bo; Zhao, Xiang; Zeng, Zhanghua; Yao, Junwei; Yang, Dongsheng; Liu, Guoqiang; Cui, Haixin

    2018-01-01

    Nano-delivery systems for the active ingredients of pesticides can improve the utilization rates of pesticides and prolong their control effects. This is due to the nanocarrier envelope and controlled release function. However, particles containing active ingredients in controlled release pesticide formulations are generally large and have wide size distributions. There have been limited studies about the effect of particle size on the controlled release properties and biological activities of pesticide delivery systems. In the current study, avermectin (Av) nano-delivery systems were constructed with different particle sizes and their performances were evaluated. The Av release rate in the nano-delivery system could be effectively controlled by changing the particle size. The biological activity increased with decreasing particle size. These results suggest that Av nano-delivery systems can significantly improve the controllable release, photostability, and biological activity, which will improve efficiency and reduce pesticide residues.

  1. Improvement of silicone rubber properties by addition of nano-SiO2 particles.

    PubMed

    Wu, Lianfeng; Wang, Xianming; Ning, Liang; Han, Jianjun; Wan, Zhong; Lu, Min

    2016-07-04

    To improve the comprehensive performances of a one-part room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber(RTV-1 SiR), Nano-SiO2 particles are employed as the reinforcing agent. The SiO2/RTV-1 SiR composite is prepared using PDMS, ND42, D-60 and HMDS-modified SiO2 particles by mixing method. And then, the mechanical and electrical properties, including shear strength, tensile strength, hardness Shore A and volume resistivity, are investigated using experimental method. The addition of nano-SiO2 particles can improve the properties of the SiO2/RTV-1 SiR composite in different degrees. And, the incorporation of 25~30 phr nano-SiO2 particles is found to be reasonable for silicone rubber composite with the best comprehensive performances. The significant improvement of mechanical properties and electrical insulation of SiO2 may be contributed to the addition of modified nano-SiO2 particles. Additionally, the excellent comprehensive performances of SiO2/RTV-1 SiR composite guarantee a potential applications as electrical-insulating adhesives.

  2. Biocompatibility Assessment of Si-based Nano- and Micro-particles

    PubMed Central

    Jaganathan, Hamsa; Godin, Biana

    2012-01-01

    Silicon is one of the most abundant chemical elements found on the Earth. Due to its unique chemical and physical properties, silicon based materials and their oxides (e.g. silica) have been used in several industries such as building and construction, electronics, food industry, consumer products and biomedical engineering/medicine. This review summarizes studies on effects of silicon and silica nano- and micro-particles on cells and organs following four main exposure routes, namely, intravenous, pulmonary, dermal and oral. Further, possible genotoxic effects of silica based nanoparticles are discussed. The review concludes with an outlook on improving and standardizing biocompatibility assessment for nano- and micro-particles. PMID:22634160

  3. Omega-3 PUFA concentration by a novel PVDF nano-composite membrane filled with nano-porous silica particles.

    PubMed

    Ghasemian, Samaneh; Sahari, Mohammad Ali; Barzegar, Mohsen; Ahmadi Gavlighi, Hasan

    2017-09-01

    In this study, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and nano-porous silica particle were used to fabricate an asymmetric nano-composite membrane. Silica particles enhanced the thermal stability of PVDF/SiO 2 membranes; increasing the decomposition temperature from 371°C to 408°C. Cross sectional morphology showed that silica particles were dispersed in polymer matrix uniformly. However, particle agglomeration was found at higher loading of silica (i.e., 20 by weight%). The separation performance of nano-composite membranes was also evaluated using the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) concentration at a temperature and pressure of 30°C and 4bar, respectively. Silica particle increased the omega-3PUFA concentration from 34.8 by weight% in neat PVDF to 53.9 by weight% in PVDF with 15 by weight% of silica. Moreover, PVDF/SiO 2 nano-composite membranes exhibited enhanced anti-fouling property compared to neat PVDF membrane. Fouling mechanism analysis revealed that complete pore blocking was the predominant mechanism occurring in oil filtration. The concentration of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) is important in the oil industries. While the current methods demand high energy consumptions in concentrating the omega-3, membrane separation technology offers noticeable advantages in producing pure omega-3 PUFA. Moreover, concentrating omega-3 via membrane separation produces products in the triacylglycerol form which possess better oxidative stability. In this work, the detailed mechanisms of fouling which limits the performance of membrane separation were investigated. Incorporating silica particles to polymeric membrane resulted in the formation of mixed matrix membrane with improved anti-fouling behaviour compared to the neat polymeric membrane. Hence, the industrial potential of membrane processing to concentrate omega-3 fatty acids is enhanced. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  4. Hard particle effect on surface generation in nano-cutting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Feifei; Fang, Fengzhou; Zhang, Xiaodong

    2017-12-01

    The influence of the hard particle on the surface generation, plastic deformation and processing forces in nano-cutting of aluminum is investigated by means of molecular dynamics simulations. In this investigation, a hard particle which is simplified as a diamond ball is embedded under the free surface of workpiece with different depths. The influence of the position of the hard ball on the surface generation and other material removal mechanism, such as the movement of the ball under the action of cutting tool edge, is revealed. The results show that when the hard particle is removed, only a small shallow pit is left on the machined surface. Otherwise, it is pressed down to the subsurface of the workpiece left larger and deeper pit on the generated surface. Besides that, the hard particle in the workpiece would increase the processing force when the cutting tool edge or the plastic carriers interact with the hard particle. It is helpful to optimize the cutting parameters and material properties for obtaining better surface quality in nano-cutting of composites or other materials with micro/nanoscale hard particles in it.

  5. Antimicrobial properties of nano-silver: a cautionary approach to ionic interference.

    PubMed

    Sheehy, K; Casey, A; Murphy, A; Chambers, G

    2015-04-01

    Metallic nanoparticles such as nano-silver have found many applications as alternative antimicrobials in recent years. However methods for determining their proposed antimicrobial activity have received little attention to date. The disk diffusion assay is commonly used as a demonstration of antimicrobial properties and is a regular feature in synthetic nanoparticle papers. The aim of this study was to assess its effectiveness in demonstrating the "nanoparticle specific" antimicrobial properties in the absence of ionic contributions from unreacted reducing agents and or impurities. The disk diffusion assay was carried out on a range of silver nanoparticles, both in-house synthesised and commercially available, using Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 as a model organism. Capped and purified nanoparticles show no antimicrobial activity despite claims to the contrary for this assay. Results will be discussed in terms of the need for researchers without a background in microbiology to understand the mechanism of antimicrobial action before choosing an assay. Also discussed is the importance understanding the physiochemical characteristics of when interpreting results. Finally the relevance of the results in terms establishing protocols for method development for 'nanoparticle specific' antimicrobial properties will also be considered. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Retention of silver nano-particles and silver ions in calcareous soils: Influence of soil properties.

    PubMed

    Rahmatpour, Samaneh; Shirvani, Mehran; Mosaddeghi, Mohammad R; Bazarganipour, Mehdi

    2017-05-15

    The rapid production and application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have led to significant release of AgNPs into the terrestrial environments. Once released into the soil, AgNPs could enter into different interactions with soil particles which play key roles in controlling the fate and transport of these nanoparticles. In spite of that, experimental studies on the retention of AgNPs in soils are very scarce. Hence, the key objective of this research was to find out the retention behavior of AgNPs and Ag(I) ions in a range of calcareous soils. A second objective was to determine the extent to which the physico-chemical properties of the soils influence the Ag retention parameters. To this end, isothermal batch experiments were used to determine the retention of Poly(vinylpyrrolidinone)-capped AgNPs (PVP-AgNPs) and Ag(I) ions by nine calcareous soils with a diversity of physico-chemical properties. The results revealed that the retention data for both PVP-AgNPs and Ag(I) ions were well described by the classical Freundlich and Langmuir isothermal equations. The retention of PVP-AgNPs and Ag(I) ions was positively correlated to clay and organic carbon (OC) contents as well as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the soils. Due to multicolinearity among the soil properties, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to group the soil properties which affect the retention of PVP-AgNPs and Ag(I) ions. Accordingly, we identified two groups of soil properties controlling retention of PVP-AgNPs and Ag(I) ions in the calcareous soils. The first group comprised soil solid phase parameters like clay, OC, and CEC, which generally control hetero-aggregation and adsorption reactions and the second group included soil solution variables such as EC and pH as well as Cl - and Ca 2+ concentrations, which are supposed to mainly affect homo-aggregation and precipitation reactions. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  7. Powder XRD, TEM, FTIR and thermal studies of strontium tartrate nano particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lathiya, U. M.; Jethva, H. O.; Joshi, M. J.; Vyas, P. M.

    2017-05-01

    Strontium tartrate finds several applications, e.g., as non-linear optical and dielectric material, in tracer composition and ammunition unit, in treating structural integrity of bone. The growth of single crystals of strontium tartrate in silica gel has been widely reported. In the present study, strontium tartrate nano particles were synthesized by wet chemical method using strontium chloride, tartaric acid and sodium meta-silicate solutions in the presence of Triton X -100 surfactant. It was found that the presence of sodium meta-silicate facilitated the reaction for strontium tartrate product. The powder XRD study of strontium tartrate nano-particles suggested monoclinic crystal system and the average crystallite size was found to be 40 nm determined by applying Scherrer's formula. The TEM analysis indicated that the nano particles were spherical in nature. The FTIR spectrum confirmed the presence of various functional groups such as O-H,C-H, and C=O stretching mode. The thermal analysis was carried out by using TGA and DTA studies. The nano-particles were found to be stable up to 175°C and then decomposed through various stages. The results are compared with the bulk crystalline material available in the literature.

  8. Dispersion of iron nano-particles on expanded graphite for the shielding of electromagnetic radiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Zheng; Huang, Yu'an; Yang, Yang; Shen, Jianyi; Tang, Tao; Huang, Runsheng

    2010-10-01

    Composite materials containing electrically conductive expanded graphite (EG) and magnetic iron nano-particles for electromagnetic shielding were prepared by impregnating EG with an ethanol solution containing iron nitrate and acetic acid, followed by drying and reduction in H 2. Magnetic nano-iron particles were found to be highly dispersed on the surface of EG in the Fe/EG composites, and played the role of enhancing the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (SE) at low frequencies (0.3-10 MHz), which seemed to depend proportionally on magnetic hysteresis loss of loaded iron nano-particles.

  9. Computing fluid-particle interaction forces for nano-suspension droplet spreading: molecular dynamics simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Weizhou; Shi, Baiou; Webb, Edmund

    2017-11-01

    Recently, there are many experimental and theoretical studies to understand and control the dynamic spreading of nano-suspension droplets on solid surfaces. However, fundamental understanding of driving forces dictating the kinetics of nano-suspension wetting and spreading, especially capillary forces that manifest during the process, is lacking. Here, we present results from atomic scale simulations that were used to compute forces between suspended particles and advancing liquid fronts. The role of nano-particle size, particle loading, and interaction strength on forces computed from simulations will be discussed. Results demonstrate that increasing the particle size dramatically changes observed wetting behavior from depinning to pinning. From simulations on varying particle size, a relationship between computed forces and particle size is advanced and compared to existing expressions in the literature. High particle loading significantly slowed spreading kinetics, by introducing tortuous transport paths for liquid delivery to the advancing contact line. Lastly, we show how weakening the interaction between the particle and the underlying substrate can change a system from exhibiting pinning behavior to de-pinning.

  10. Nano-Ag complexes prepared by γ-radiolysis and their structures and physical properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Hwa-Jung; Choi, Seong-Ho; Park, Hae-Jun

    2012-10-01

    In this study, nano-silver (nano-Ag) complexes showing different properties have been synthesized as follows. Polypyrrolidone (PVP)-stabilized silver colloids (NAg), nano-Ag bound to silica (SiO2) (NSS), and nano-Ag bound to a complex of SiO2 and polyaniline (PANI) (NSSPAI) were prepared via γ-irradiation at room temperature. NAg and NSS used PVP as a colloidal stabilizer, while NSSPAI did not use PVP as a colloidal stabilizer. Interesting bonding properties occurred in the nano-Ag complex and anticipated structural changes were clearly shown through a surface analysis of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The morphologies by field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis showed that nano-Ag complexes have various particle sizes ranging from 10 to 30 nm. NSS (average, 10 nm) and NSSPAI (average, 30 nm) showed a uniformly spherical shape and size, while NAg did not. From the reflection peaks in the x-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, surface crystallinity of the nano-Ag complexes was indicated to be in the same degree as that of NSSPAI>NSS>NAg. Also, in the contact angle (CA) determination, surface hydrophobicity of NSSPAI was stronger than those of NSS and NAg, relatively. The different nano-Ag complexes prepared by γ-irradiation can be applicable in various industry fields due to the increase in specific property.

  11. DEPOSITION DISTRIBUTION OF NANO AND ULTRAFINE PARTICLES IN HUMAN LUNGS DURING CONTROLLED MOUTH BREATHING

    EPA Science Inventory

    Nano and ultrafine particles are abundant in the atmosphere and the level of human exposure to these tiny particles is expected to increase markedly as industrial activities increase manufacturing nano-sized materials. Exposure-dose relationships and site-specific internal dose a...

  12. Mechanism of the dielectric enhancement in polymer-alumina nano-particle composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jacob, Rebecca; Jacob, Anne Pavitra; Mainwaring, David E.

    2009-09-01

    Polymer-alumina nano-composites with enhanced dielectric properties as a possibility to enable the miniaturization of devices have been reported. The enhancement of dielectric properties was found to be unique to the polymer. In the present work, the mechanism of the dielectric enhancement is established by performing ab initio molecular orbital calculations in order to study the molecular interactions in the interfacial region between the alumina-nano-particle surface and the polymer medium. The calculations predict the existence of strong electrostatic attraction between the positive charge on the aluminium of the alumina clusters and the negative charge of the oxygens of the polymer at the polymer-nano-particle interface resulting in an increase in the dipole moment and the polarization of the system leading to enhanced dielectric properties. The oxygen thus plays a dual role by involving in covalent bonding with the polymer chain and electrostatic bonding interactions with the alumina nano-particles. The unique structure of the polymer provides the highly electronegative oxygens, as carbonyl groups or ether linkages in conjugation with aromatic rings in an extended polymer chain system, facilitating this type of bonding at the interface.

  13. Process for making silver metal filaments

    DOEpatents

    Bamberger, Carlos E.

    1997-01-01

    A process for making silver metal particles from silver salt particles having the same morphology. Precursor silver salt particles selected from the group consisting of silver acetate and silver sulfide having a selected morphology are contained in a reactor vessel having means for supporting the particles in an air suspension to prevent the agglomeration of the particles. Air is flowed through the reactor vessel at a flow rate sufficient to suspend the particles in the reactor vessel. The suspended precursor silver salt particles are heated to a processing temperature and at a heating rate below which the physical deterioration of the suspended precursor silver salt particles takes place. The suspended precursor silver salt particles are maintained at the processing temperature for a period of time sufficient to convert the particles into silver metal particles having the same morphology as the precursor silver salt particles.

  14. Synthesis and Characterization of Cholesterol Nano Particles by Using w/o Microemulsion Technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vyas, Poorvesh M.; Vasant, Sonal R.; Hajiyani, Rakesh R.; Joshi, Mihir J.

    2010-10-01

    Cholesterol is one of the most abundant and well known steroids in the animal kingdom. Cholesterol rich micro-emulsions and nano-emulsions are useful for the treatment of breast cancer and gynecologic cancers. The nano particles of cholesterol and other pharmaceutically important materials have been reported. In the present investigation, the nano particles of cholesterol were synthesized by direct precipitation technique using triton X-100/water/n-butanol micro-emulsion. The average particle size of cholesterol nano particles was estimated by applying Scherrer's formula to the powder X-ray diffraction pattern, which was found to be 22 nm. The nanoparticles of cholesterol were observed by using TEM and the particle size was found within the range from 15 nm-31 nm. The distribution of particle size was studied through DLS. The nanoparticles of cholesterol were characterized by using FT-IR spectroscopy and the force constant was also calculated for O-H, C-H and C-O bonds. The thermal response of nanoparticles of cholesterol was studied by TGA, which showed that the nanoparticles were stable up to 200 °C and then decomposed. Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of decomposition process were also calculated by applying Coats and Redfern formula to thermo-gram.

  15. Potential of nano-silver fluoride for tooth enamel caries prevention

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Silva, Amitis V. C.; Mota, Cláudia C. B. O.; Teixeira, Joás. A.; Lins, Emery C.; Gomes, Anderson S. L.; Rosenblatt, Aronita

    2018-02-01

    This ex vivo study evaluated the efficiency of nano-silver fluoride (NSF) to enamel remineralization of deciduous teeth submitted to a high cariogenic challenge. 33 specimens of sound enamel were distributed into three groups: treated with sodium fluoride, with NSF, and deionized water. All specimens were submitted to microhardness test before chemical caries induction; post-induction of caries; and post-cariogenic challenge. The high cariogenic challenge was carried out in 14 daily cycles. There was no significant statistical difference (p=0.958) of enamel microhardness between NSFtreated and NaF-treated specimens. However, it presented significant difference between water-treated specimens and both NSF-treated and NaF-treated specimens (p=0.003).Furthermore, optical coherence tomography was employed for caries diagnosis, as it can be used in clinical environment.

  16. Characterization Of Environmentally Relevant Chemical And Physical Properties Of Silver Nano-Particles

    EPA Science Inventory

    Understanding and predicting the fate and transport of nano-materials in the environment requires a detailed characterization of the chemical and physical properties that control fate and transport. In the current study, we have evaluated the surface charge, aggregation potentia...

  17. Linear and ultrafast nonlinear plasmonics of single nano-objects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Crut, Aurélien; Maioli, Paolo; Vallée, Fabrice; Del Fatti, Natalia

    2017-03-01

    Single-particle optical investigations have greatly improved our understanding of the fundamental properties of nano-objects, avoiding the spurious inhomogeneous effects that affect ensemble experiments. Correlation with high-resolution imaging techniques providing morphological information (e.g. electron microscopy) allows a quantitative interpretation of the optical measurements by means of analytical models and numerical simulations. In this topical review, we first briefly recall the principles underlying some of the most commonly used single-particle optical techniques: near-field, dark-field, spatial modulation and photothermal microscopies/spectroscopies. We then focus on the quantitative investigation of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of metallic nano-objects using linear and ultrafast optical techniques. While measured SPR positions and spectral areas are found in good agreement with predictions based on Maxwell’s equations, SPR widths are strongly influenced by quantum confinement (or, from a classical standpoint, surface-induced electron scattering) and, for small nano-objects, cannot be reproduced using the dielectric functions of bulk materials. Linear measurements on single nano-objects (silver nanospheres and gold nanorods) allow a quantification of the size and geometry dependences of these effects in confined metals. Addressing the ultrafast response of an individual nano-object is also a powerful tool to elucidate the physical mechanisms at the origin of their optical nonlinearities, and their electronic, vibrational and thermal relaxation processes. Experimental investigations of the dynamical response of gold nanorods are shown to be quantitatively modeled in terms of modifications of the metal dielectric function enhanced by plasmonic effects. Ultrafast spectroscopy can also be exploited to unveil hidden physical properties of more complex nanosystems. In this context, two-color femtosecond pump-probe experiments performed on individual

  18. Monitoring of magnetic nano-particles in EOR by using the CSEM modeling and inversion.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Heo, J. Y.; KIM, S.; Jeong, G.; Hwang, J.; Min, D. J.

    2016-12-01

    EOR, which injects water, CO2, or other chemical components into reservoirs to increase the production rate of oil and gas, has widely been used. To promote efficiency of EOR, it is important to monitor distribution of injected materials in reservoirs. Using nano-particles in EOR has advantages that the size of particles is smaller than the pore and particles can be characterized by various physical properties. Specifically, if we use magnetic nano-particles, we can effectively monitor nano-particles by using the electromagnetic survey. CSEM, which can control the frequency range of source, is good to monitor magnetic nano-particles under various reservoir circumstances. In this study, we first perform numerical simulation of 3D CSEM for reservoir under production. In general, two wells are used for EOR: one is for injection, and the other is for extraction. We assume that sources are applied inside the injection well, and receivers are deployed inside the extraction well. To simulate the CSEM survey, we decompose the total fields into primary and secondary fields in Maxwell's equations. For the primary fields, we calculate the analytic solutions of the layered earth. With the calculated primary fields, we compute the secondary fields due to anomalies using the edge-based finite-element method. Finally, we perform electromagnetic inversion for both conductivity and permeability to trace the distribution of magnetic nano-particles. Since these two parameters react differently according to the frequency range of sources, we can effectively describe the distribution of magnetic nano-particles by considering two parameters at the same time. Acknowledgements This work was supported by the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning(KETEP) and the Ministry of Trade, Industry & Energy(MOTIE) of the Republic of Korea (No. 20168510030830), and by the International Cooperation (No. 2012-8510030010) of KETEP, and by the Dual Use Technology Program, granted

  19. Optical Detection and Sizing of Single Nano-Particles Using Continuous Wetting Films

    PubMed Central

    Hennequin, Yves; McLeod, Euan; Mudanyali, Onur; Migliozzi, Daniel; Ozcan, Aydogan; Dinten, Jean-Marc

    2013-01-01

    The physical interaction between nano-scale objects and liquid interfaces can create unique optical properties, enhancing the signatures of the objects with sub-wavelength features. Here we show that the evaporation on a wetting substrate of a polymer solution containing sub-micrometer or nano-scale particles creates liquid micro-lenses that arise from the local deformations of the continuous wetting film. These micro-lenses have properties similar to axicon lenses that are known to create beams with a long depth of focus. This enhanced depth of focus allows detection of single nanoparticles using a low magnification microscope objective lens, achieving a relatively wide field-of-view, while also lifting the constraints on precise focusing onto the object plane. Hence, by creating these liquid axicon lenses through spatial deformations of a continuous thin wetting film, we transfer the challenge of imaging individual nano-particles to detecting the light focused by these lenses. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate the detection and sizing of single nano-particles (100 and 200 nm), CpGV granuloviruses as well as Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria over a wide field of view of e.g., 5.10×3.75 mm2 using a ×5 objective lens with a numerical aperture of 0.15. In addition to conventional lens-based microscopy, this continuous wetting film based approach is also applicable to lensfree computational on-chip imaging, which can be used to detect single nano-particles over a large field-of-view of e.g., >20-30 mm2. These results could be especially useful for high-throughput field-analysis of nano-scale objects using compact and cost-effective microscope designs. PMID:23889001

  20. Multi scale modeling of ignition and combustion of micro and nano aluminum particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Puri, Puneesh

    With renewed interest in nano scale energetic materials like aluminum, many fundamental issues concerning the ignition and combustion characteristics at nano scales, remain to be clarified. The overall aim of the current study is the establishment of a unified theory accommodating the various processes and mechanisms involved in the combustion and ignition of aluminum particles at micro and nano scales. A comprehensive review on the ignition and combustion of aluminum particles at multi scales was first performed identifying various processes and mechanisms involved. Research focus was also placed on the establishment of a Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation tool to investigate the characteristics of nano-particulate aluminum through three major studies. The general computational framework involved parallelized preprocessing, post-processing and main code with capability to simulate different ensembles using appropriate algorithms. Size dependence of melting temperature of pure aluminum particles was investigated in the first study. Phenomena like dynamic coexistence of solid and liquid phase and effect of surface charges on melting were explored. The second study involved the study of effect of defects in the form of voids on melting of bulk and particulate phase aluminum. The third MD study was used to analyze the thermo-mechanical behavior of nano-sized aluminum particles with total diameter of 5-10 nm and oxide thickness of 1-2.5 nm. The ensuing solid-solid and solid-liquid phase changes in the core and shell, stresses developed within the shell, and the diffusion of aluminum cations in the oxide layer, were explored in depth for amorphous and crystalline oxide layers. In the limiting case, the condition for pyrophoricity/explosivity of nano-particulate aluminum was analyzed and modified. The size dependence of thermodynamic properties at nano scales were considered and incorporated into the existing theories developed for micro and larger scales. Finally, a

  1. Concrete surface with nano-particle additives for improved wearing resistance to increasing truck traffic.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-07-01

    This study focused on the use of nanotechnology in concrete to improve the wearing resistance of concrete. The nano : materials used were polymer cross-linked aerogels, carbon nanotubes, and nano-SiO2, nano-CaCO3, and nano-Al2O3 : particles. As an in...

  2. Performance evaluation of bimodal thermite composites : nano- vs miron-scale particles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Moore, K. M.; Pantoya, M.; Son, S. F.

    2004-01-01

    In recent years many studies of metastable interstitial composites (MIC) have shown vast combustion improvements over traditional thermite materials. The main difference between these two materials is the size of the fuel particles in the mixture. Decreasing the fuel size from the micron to nanometer range significantly increases the combustion wave speed and ignition sensitivity. Little is known, however, about the critical level of nano-sized fuel particles needed to enhance the performance of the traditional thermite. Ignition sensitivity experiments were performed using Al/MoO{sub 3} pellets at a theoretical maximum density of 50% (2 g/cm{sup 3}). The Al fuel particles weremore » prepared as bi-modal size distributions with micron (i.e., 4 and 20 {micro}m diameter) and nano-scale Al particles. The micron-scale Al was replaced in 10% increments by 80 nm Al particles until the fuel was 100% 80 nm Al. These bi-modal distributions allow the unique characteristics of nano-scale materials to be better understood. The pellets were ignited using a 50-W CO{sub 2} laser. High speed imaging diagnostics were used to measure ignition delay times, and micro-thermocouples were used to measure ignition temperatures. Combustion wave speeds were also examined.« less

  3. Responsiveness of emulsions stabilized by lactoferrin nano-particles to simulated intestinal conditions.

    PubMed

    Meshulam, Dafna; Lesmes, Uri

    2014-01-01

    There is an upsurge of interest in the use of nano-particles to fabricate emulsions and modulate their functionality, with particular emphasis on modulating emulsion digestive fate. Food grade nano-particles formed through controlled processing and electrostatic biopolymer interactions are yet to be systematically studied for their ability to stabilize emulsions and modulate emulsion digestibility. This study focused on the responsiveness of emulsions stabilized by lactoferrin (LF) nano-particles (NPs) and dietary fibers to key digestive parameters. Compared to native LF, LF-NPs comprised emulsion exhibited elevated creaming rates as evident from accelerated stability tests performed by analytical centrifugation. The electrostatic deposition of alginate or carrageenan onto the LF-NPs significantly improved the stability of the corresponding emulsions. Further, the use of various nano-particles showed to have both beneficial and deleterious effects on emulsion responsiveness to pH (2.0 < pH < 10.0), CaCl2 (0-40 mM) and bile (0-25 mg mL(-1)). Simulated pH-stat lipolysis experiments show that the use of LF or LF-NPs had no marked effect on lipolysis. Intriguingly, the use of LF-NPs and alginate reduced emulsion lipolysis by 14% while the use of LF-NPs and carrageenan increased lipolysis by 10%. Microscopy images as well as droplet characterization in terms of size and charge indicate that the altered emulsion responsiveness may be due to physical differences in emulsion properties (e.g. droplet size) and overall organization during digestion (e.g. aggregation vs. coalescence). Overall, this study's insights could prospectively be used to harness protein nano-particles to tweak emulsion behavior during digestion.

  4. Effects of Energetic and Inert Nano Particles on Burning Liquid Ethanol Droplets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Plascencia, Miguel; Sim, Hyung Sub; Vargas, Andres; Smith, Owen; Karagozian, Ann

    2017-11-01

    This study explores the effects of nano particulate additives on ethanol fuel droplet combustion in a quiescent environment. Two different types of droplet combustion experiments were performed: one involving the classic single droplet suspended from a quartz fiber and the other involving a burning droplet that has continual fuel delivery via a quartz capillary. Two alternative nano particles were explored here to demonstrate the effect of energetic additives: reactive nano aluminum (nAl) and inert nano silicon dioxide (nSiO2), each with average diameter 80 nm. Simultaneous high speed visible and OH* chemiluminescence images were taken to determine burning rate constants (K) and to study flame and droplet characteristics with varying particulate concentrations. Particle/vapor ejections were seen in continuously fed droplet experiments, while rod-suspended burning droplets showed limited particle ejection. The nSiO2 -laden, rod-suspended droplets formed a porous, shell-like structure resembling the shape of a droplet at higher nSiO2 concentrations, in contrast to smaller residue structures for nAl-laden droplets. Changes in K depended on concentrations of nAl and nSiO2 as well as the method of droplet formation, and TEM images of particle residue revealed additional insights. Supported by AFOSR Grant FA9550-15-1-0339.

  5. Biosynthesis of silver fine particles and particles decorated with nanoparticles using the extract of Illicium verum (star anise) seeds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luna, Carlos; Chávez, V. H. G.; Barriga-Castro, Enrique Díaz; Núñez, Nuria O.; Mendoza-Reséndez, Raquel

    2015-04-01

    Given the upsurge of new technologies based on nanomaterials, the development of sustainable methods to obtain functional nanostructures has become an imperative task. In this matter, several recent researches have shown that the biodegradable natural antioxidants of several plant extracts can be used simultaneously as reducing and stabilizing agents in the wet chemical synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, opening new opportunities to design greener synthesis. However, the challenge of these new techniques is to produce stable colloidal nanoparticles with controlled particle uniformity, size, shape and aggregation state, in similar manner than the well-established synthetic methods. In the present work, colloidal metallic silver nanoparticles have been synthesized using silver nitrate and extracts of Illicium verum (star anise) seeds at room temperature in a facile one-step procedure. The resulting products were colloidal suspensions of two populations of silver nanoparticles, one of them with particle sizes of few nanometers and the other with particles of tens of nm. Strikingly, the variation of the AgNO3/extract weight ratio in the reaction medium yielded to the variation of the spatial distribution of the nanoparticles: high AgNO3/extract concentration ratios yielded to randomly dispersed particles, whereas for lower AgNO3/extract ratios, the biggest particles appeared coated with the finest nanoparticles. This biosynthesized colloidal system, with controlled particle aggregation states, presents plasmonic and SERS properties with potential applications in molecular sensors and nanophotonic devices.

  6. Biosynthesis of silver fine particles and particles decorated with nanoparticles using the extract of Illicium verum (star anise) seeds.

    PubMed

    Luna, Carlos; Chávez, V H G; Barriga-Castro, Enrique Díaz; Núñez, Nuria O; Mendoza-Reséndez, Raquel

    2015-04-15

    Given the upsurge of new technologies based on nanomaterials, the development of sustainable methods to obtain functional nanostructures has become an imperative task. In this matter, several recent researches have shown that the biodegradable natural antioxidants of several plant extracts can be used simultaneously as reducing and stabilizing agents in the wet chemical synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, opening new opportunities to design greener synthesis. However, the challenge of these new techniques is to produce stable colloidal nanoparticles with controlled particle uniformity, size, shape and aggregation state, in similar manner than the well-established synthetic methods. In the present work, colloidal metallic silver nanoparticles have been synthesized using silver nitrate and extracts of Illicium verum (star anise) seeds at room temperature in a facile one-step procedure. The resulting products were colloidal suspensions of two populations of silver nanoparticles, one of them with particle sizes of few nanometers and the other with particles of tens of nm. Strikingly, the variation of the AgNO3/extract weight ratio in the reaction medium yielded to the variation of the spatial distribution of the nanoparticles: high AgNO3/extract concentration ratios yielded to randomly dispersed particles, whereas for lower AgNO3/extract ratios, the biggest particles appeared coated with the finest nanoparticles. This biosynthesized colloidal system, with controlled particle aggregation states, presents plasmonic and SERS properties with potential applications in molecular sensors and nanophotonic devices. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Microstructures and fatigue life of SnAgCu solder joints bearing Nano-Al particles in QFP devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Liang; Fan, Xi-ying; Guo, Yong-huan; He, Cheng-wen

    2014-05-01

    Microstructures and fatigue life of SnAgCu and SnAgCu bearing nano-Al particles in QFP (Quad flat package) devices were investigated, respectively. Results show that the addition of nano-Al particles into SnAgCu solder can refine the microstructures of matrix microstructure. Moreover, the nano-Al particles present in the solder matrix, act as obstacles which can create a back stress, resisting the motion of dislocations. In QFP device, it is found that the addition of nano-Al particles can increase the fatigue life by 32% compared with the SnAgCu solder joints during thermal cycling loading.

  8. Photonic-crystal membranes for optical detection of single nano-particles, designed for biosensor application.

    PubMed

    Grepstad, Jon Olav; Kaspar, Peter; Solgaard, Olav; Johansen, Ib-Rune; Sudbø, Aasmund S

    2012-03-26

    A sensor designed to detect bio-molecules is presented. The sensor exploits a planar 2D photonic crystal (PC) membrane with sub-micron thickness and through holes, to induce high optical fields that allow detection of nano-particles smaller than the diffraction limit of an optical microscope. We report on our design and fabrication of a PC membrane with a nano-particle trapped inside. We have also designed and built an imaging system where an optical microscope and a CCD camera are used to take images of the PC membrane. Results show how the trapped nano-particle appears as a bright spot in the image. In a first experimental realization of the imaging system, single particles with a radius of 75 nm can be detected.

  9. Synthesis of Calcite Nano Particles from Natural Limestone assisted with Ultrasonic Technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Handayani, M.; Sulistiyono, E.; Firdiyono, F.; Fajariani, E. N.

    2018-03-01

    This article represents a precipitation method assisted with ultrasonic process to synthesize precipitated calcium carbonate nano particles from natural limestone. The synthesis of nanoparticles material of precipitated calcium carbonate from commercial calcium carbonate was done for comparison. The process was performed using ultrasonic waves at optimum condition, that is, at temperature of 80oC for 10 minutes with various amplitudes. Synthesized precipitated calcium carbonate nanoparticles were characterized using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Particle Size Analyzer (PSA). The result of PSA measurements showed that precipitated calcium carbonate nano particles was obtained with the average size of 109 nm.

  10. Micro-PIXE study of Ag in digestive glands of a nano-Ag fed arthropod ( Porcellio scaber, Isopoda, Crustacea)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tkalec, Živa Pipan; Drobne, Damjana; Vogel-Mikuš, Katarina; Pongrac, Paula; Regvar, Marjana; Štrus, Jasna; Pelicon, Primož; Vavpetič, Primož; Grlj, Nataša; Remškar, Maja

    2011-10-01

    Micro-proton induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE) method was applied to study the micro-localization of silver (Ag) in digestive glands of a terrestrial arthropod (Porcellio scaber) after feeding on silver nanoparticles (nano-Ag) dosed food. The aim of our work was to assess whether feeding on nano-Ag results in the assimilation of silver (Ag) in digestive gland cells. To study micro-localization and elemental distribution of Ag, the animals were fed on food dosed with nanoparticles for 14 days under controlled laboratory conditions. At the end of the feeding exposure, the animals were dissected and digestive glands prepared for micro-PIXE analyses and TEM investigation. The results obtained by micro-PIXE documented high amounts of Ag inside S-cells of the digestive gland epithelium; however, TEM investigation did not show particle aggregates inside digestive gland cells. Also no adverse effect on feeding behavior was recorded what is a measure of toxic effects. We explain the presence of Ag inside the cells as a result of the assimilation of dissoluted Ag ions from ingested nano-Ag particles. Assimilation of excessive amounts of ingested metal ions in S-cells is a well known metal detoxification mechanism in isopods. We discuss the advantages of using micro-PIXE for the micro-localization of elements in biological tissue in studies of interactions between nanoparticles and biological systems.

  11. Supercritical Fluid Synthesis and Tribological Applications of Silver Nanoparticle-decorated Graphene in Engine Oil Nanofluid.

    PubMed

    Meng, Yuan; Su, Fenghua; Chen, Yangzhi

    2016-08-04

    Silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile chemical reduction approach with the assistance of supercritical CO2 (ScCO2). The silver nanoparticles with diameters of 2-16 nm are uniformly distributed and firmly anchored on graphene nanosheets. The tribological properties of the as-synthesized nanocomposites as lubricant additives in engine oil were investigated by a four-ball tribometer. The engine oil with 0.06~0.10 wt.% Sc-Ag/GN nanocomposites displays remarkable lubricating performance, superior than the pure engine oil, the engine oil containing zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), as well as the oil dispersed with the single nanomaterial of graphene oxides (GOs) and nano-Ag particles alone. The remarkable lubricating behaviors of Sc-Ag/GN probably derive from the synergistic interactions of nano-Ag and graphene in the nanocomposite and the action of the formed protective film on the contact balls. The anchored nano-Ag particles on graphene expand the interlamination spaces of graphene nanosheets and can prevent them from restacking during the rubbing process, resulting in the full play of lubricating activity of graphene. The formed protective film on the friction pairs significantly reduces the surface roughness of the sliding balls and hence preventing them from direct interaction during the sliding process.

  12. Supercritical Fluid Synthesis and Tribological Applications of Silver Nanoparticle-decorated Graphene in Engine Oil Nanofluid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meng, Yuan; Su, Fenghua; Chen, Yangzhi

    2016-08-01

    Silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile chemical reduction approach with the assistance of supercritical CO2 (ScCO2). The silver nanoparticles with diameters of 2-16 nm are uniformly distributed and firmly anchored on graphene nanosheets. The tribological properties of the as-synthesized nanocomposites as lubricant additives in engine oil were investigated by a four-ball tribometer. The engine oil with 0.06~0.10 wt.% Sc-Ag/GN nanocomposites displays remarkable lubricating performance, superior than the pure engine oil, the engine oil containing zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), as well as the oil dispersed with the single nanomaterial of graphene oxides (GOs) and nano-Ag particles alone. The remarkable lubricating behaviors of Sc-Ag/GN probably derive from the synergistic interactions of nano-Ag and graphene in the nanocomposite and the action of the formed protective film on the contact balls. The anchored nano-Ag particles on graphene expand the interlamination spaces of graphene nanosheets and can prevent them from restacking during the rubbing process, resulting in the full play of lubricating activity of graphene. The formed protective film on the friction pairs significantly reduces the surface roughness of the sliding balls and hence preventing them from direct interaction during the sliding process.

  13. Supercritical Fluid Synthesis and Tribological Applications of Silver Nanoparticle-decorated Graphene in Engine Oil Nanofluid

    PubMed Central

    Meng, Yuan; Su, Fenghua; Chen, Yangzhi

    2016-01-01

    Silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile chemical reduction approach with the assistance of supercritical CO2 (ScCO2). The silver nanoparticles with diameters of 2–16 nm are uniformly distributed and firmly anchored on graphene nanosheets. The tribological properties of the as-synthesized nanocomposites as lubricant additives in engine oil were investigated by a four-ball tribometer. The engine oil with 0.06~0.10 wt.% Sc-Ag/GN nanocomposites displays remarkable lubricating performance, superior than the pure engine oil, the engine oil containing zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), as well as the oil dispersed with the single nanomaterial of graphene oxides (GOs) and nano-Ag particles alone. The remarkable lubricating behaviors of Sc-Ag/GN probably derive from the synergistic interactions of nano-Ag and graphene in the nanocomposite and the action of the formed protective film on the contact balls. The anchored nano-Ag particles on graphene expand the interlamination spaces of graphene nanosheets and can prevent them from restacking during the rubbing process, resulting in the full play of lubricating activity of graphene. The formed protective film on the friction pairs significantly reduces the surface roughness of the sliding balls and hence preventing them from direct interaction during the sliding process. PMID:27488733

  14. Review on characterization of nano-particle emissions and PM morphology from internal combustion engines: Part 2 [Review on morphology and nanostructure characterization of nano-particle emission from internal combustion engines

    DOE PAGES

    Choi, Seungmok; Myung, C. L.; Park, S.

    2014-03-05

    This study presents a review of the characterization of physical properties, morphology, and nanostructure of particulate emissions from internal combustion engines. Because of their convenience and readiness of measurement, various on-line commercial instruments have been used to measure the mass, number, and size distribution of nano-particles from different engines. However, these on-line commercial instruments have inherent limitations in detailed analysis of chemical and physical properties, morphology, and nanostructure of engine soot agglomerates, information that is necessary to understand the soot formation process in engine combustion, soot particle behavior in after-treatment systems, and health impacts of the nano-particles. For these reasons,more » several measurement techniques used in the carbon research field, i.e., highresolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy, were used for analysis of engine particulate matter (PM). This review covers a brief introduction of several measurement techniques and previous results from engine nano-particle characterization studies using those techniques.« less

  15. Speciation Matters: Bioavailability of Silver and Silver Sulfide Nanoparticles to Alfalfa (Medicago sativa).

    PubMed

    Stegemeier, John P; Schwab, Fabienne; Colman, Benjamin P; Webb, Samuel M; Newville, Matthew; Lanzirotti, Antonio; Winkler, Christopher; Wiesner, Mark R; Lowry, Gregory V

    2015-07-21

    Terrestrial crops are directly exposed to silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and their environmentally transformed analog silver sulfide nanoparticles (Ag2S-NPs) when wastewater treatment biosolids are applied as fertilizer to agricultural soils. This leads to a need to understand their bioavailability to plants. In the present study, the mechanisms of uptake and distribution of silver in alfalfa (Medicago sativa) were quantified and visualized upon hydroponic exposure to Ag-NPs, Ag2S-NPs, and AgNO3 at 3 mg total Ag/L. Total silver uptake was measured in dried roots and shoots, and the spatial distribution of elements was investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and synchrotron-based X-ray imaging techniques. Despite large differences in release of Ag(+) ions from the particles, Ag-NPs, Ag2S-NPs, and Ag(+) became associated with plant roots to a similar degree, and exhibited similarly limited (<1%) amounts of translocation of silver into the shoot system. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mapping revealed differences in the distribution of Ag into roots for each treatment. Silver nanoparticles mainly accumulated in the (columella) border cells and elongation zone, whereas Ag(+) accumulated more uniformly throughout the root. In contrast, Ag2S-NPs remained largely adhered to the root exterior, and the presence of cytoplasmic nano-SixOy aggregates was observed. Exclusively in roots exposed to particulate silver, NPs smaller than the originally dosed NPs were identified by TEM in the cell walls. The apparent accumulation of Ag in the root apoplast determined by XRF, and the presence of small NPs in root cell walls suggests uptake of partially dissolved NPs and translocation along the apoplast.

  16. In Vitro Cytotoxicity Assessment of an Orthodontic Composite Containing Titanium-dioxide Nano-particles

    PubMed Central

    Heravi, Farzin; Ramezani, Mohammad; Poosti, Maryam; Hosseini, Mohsen; Shajiei, Arezoo; Ahrari, Farzaneh

    2013-01-01

    Background and aims. Incorporation of nano-particles to orthodontic bonding systems has been considered to prevent enamel demineralization around appliances. This study investigated cytotoxicity of Transbond XT adhesive containing 1 wt% titanium dioxide (TiO2) nano-particles. Materials and methods. Ten composite disks were prepared from each of the conventional and TiO2-containg composites and aged for 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 days in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium (DMEM). The extracts were obtained and exposed to culture media of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and mouse L929 fibroblasts. Cell viability was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results. Both adhesives were moderately toxic for HGF cells on the first day of the experiment, but the TiO2-containing adhesive produced significantly lower toxicity than the pure adhesive (P<0.05). No significant differences were found in cell viability percentages between the two groups on the other days (P>0.05). There was a significant reduction in cell toxicity with increasing pre-incubation time (P<0.001). L929 cells showed similar toxicity trends, but lower sensitivity to detect cytotoxicity of dental composites. Conclusion. The orthodontic adhesive containing TiO2 nano-particles indicated comparable or even lower toxicity than its nano-particle-free counterpart, indicating that incorporation of 1 wt% TiO2 nano-particles to the composite structure does not result in additional health hazards compared to that occurring with the pure adhesive. PMID:24578816

  17. In Vitro Cytotoxicity Assessment of an Orthodontic Composite Containing Titanium-dioxide Nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Heravi, Farzin; Ramezani, Mohammad; Poosti, Maryam; Hosseini, Mohsen; Shajiei, Arezoo; Ahrari, Farzaneh

    2013-01-01

    Background and aims. Incorporation of nano-particles to orthodontic bonding systems has been considered to prevent enamel demineralization around appliances. This study investigated cytotoxicity of Transbond XT adhesive containing 1 wt% titanium dioxide (TiO2) nano-particles. Materials and methods. Ten composite disks were prepared from each of the conventional and TiO2-containg composites and aged for 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 days in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM). The extracts were obtained and exposed to culture media of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and mouse L929 fibroblasts. Cell viability was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results. Both adhesives were moderately toxic for HGF cells on the first day of the experiment, but the TiO2-containing adhesive produced significantly lower toxicity than the pure adhesive (P<0.05). No significant differences were found in cell viability percentages between the two groups on the other days (P>0.05). There was a significant reduction in cell toxicity with increasing pre-incubation time (P<0.001). L929 cells showed similar toxicity trends, but lower sensitivity to detect cytotoxicity of dental composites. Conclusion. The orthodontic adhesive containing TiO2 nano-particles indicated comparable or even lower toxicity than its nano-particle-free counterpart, indicating that incorporation of 1 wt% TiO2 nano-particles to the composite structure does not result in additional health hazards compared to that occurring with the pure adhesive.

  18. A Facile Method for Separating and Enriching Nano and Submicron Particles from Titanium Dioxide Found in Food and Pharmaceutical Products.

    PubMed

    Faust, James J; Doudrick, Kyle; Yang, Yu; Capco, David G; Westerhoff, Paul

    2016-01-01

    Recent studies indicate the presence of nano-scale titanium dioxide (TiO2) as an additive in human foodstuffs, but a practical protocol to isolate and separate nano-fractions from soluble foodstuffs as a source of material remains elusive. As such, we developed a method for separating the nano and submicron fractions found in commercial-grade TiO2 (E171) and E171 extracted from soluble foodstuffs and pharmaceutical products (e.g., chewing gum, pain reliever, and allergy medicine). Primary particle analysis of commercial-grade E171 indicated that 54% of particles were nano-sized (i.e., < 100 nm). Isolation and primary particle analysis of five consumer goods intended to be ingested revealed differences in the percent of nano-sized particles from 32%‒58%. Separation and enrichment of nano- and submicron-sized particles from commercial-grade E171 and E171 isolated from foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals was accomplished using rate-zonal centrifugation. Commercial-grade E171 was separated into nano- and submicron-enriched fractions consisting of a nano:submicron fraction of approximately 0.45:1 and 3.2:1, respectively. E171 extracted from gum had nano:submicron fractions of 1.4:1 and 0.19:1 for nano- and submicron-enriched, respectively. We show a difference in particle adhesion to the cell surface, which was found to be dependent on particle size and epithelial orientation. Finally, we provide evidence that E171 particles are not immediately cytotoxic to the Caco-2 human intestinal epithelium model. These data suggest that this separation method is appropriate for studies interested in isolating the nano-sized particle fraction taken directly from consumer products, in order to study separately the effects of nano and submicron particles.

  19. A Facile Method for Separating and Enriching Nano and Submicron Particles from Titanium Dioxide Found in Food and Pharmaceutical Products

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Yu; Capco, David G.; Westerhoff, Paul

    2016-01-01

    Recent studies indicate the presence of nano-scale titanium dioxide (TiO2) as an additive in human foodstuffs, but a practical protocol to isolate and separate nano-fractions from soluble foodstuffs as a source of material remains elusive. As such, we developed a method for separating the nano and submicron fractions found in commercial-grade TiO2 (E171) and E171 extracted from soluble foodstuffs and pharmaceutical products (e.g., chewing gum, pain reliever, and allergy medicine). Primary particle analysis of commercial-grade E171 indicated that 54% of particles were nano-sized (i.e., < 100 nm). Isolation and primary particle analysis of five consumer goods intended to be ingested revealed differences in the percent of nano-sized particles from 32%‒58%. Separation and enrichment of nano- and submicron-sized particles from commercial-grade E171 and E171 isolated from foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals was accomplished using rate-zonal centrifugation. Commercial-grade E171 was separated into nano- and submicron-enriched fractions consisting of a nano:submicron fraction of approximately 0.45:1 and 3.2:1, respectively. E171 extracted from gum had nano:submicron fractions of 1.4:1 and 0.19:1 for nano- and submicron-enriched, respectively. We show a difference in particle adhesion to the cell surface, which was found to be dependent on particle size and epithelial orientation. Finally, we provide evidence that E171 particles are not immediately cytotoxic to the Caco-2 human intestinal epithelium model. These data suggest that this separation method is appropriate for studies interested in isolating the nano-sized particle fraction taken directly from consumer products, in order to study separately the effects of nano and submicron particles. PMID:27798677

  20. Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant Spray (Final Report)

    EPA Science Inventory

    EPA announced the release of the final report, Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant Spray. This report represents a case study of engineered nanoscale silver (nano-Ag), focusing on the specific example of nano-Ag as possibly used in disinfectant spr...

  1. Characterization of silver particles in the stratum corneum of healthy subjects and atopic dermatitis patients dermally exposed to a silver-containing garment

    PubMed Central

    Bianco, Carlotta; Visser, Maaike J.; Pluut, Olivier A.; Svetličić, Vesna; Pletikapić, Galja; Jakasa, Ivone; Riethmuller, Christoph; Adami, Gianpiero; Filon, Francesca Larese; Schwegler-Berry, Diane; Stefaniak, Aleksandr B.; Kezic, Sanja

    2018-01-01

    Silver is increasingly being used in garments to exploit its antibacterial properties. Information on the presence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in garments and their in vivo penetration across healthy and impaired skin from use is limited. We investigated the presence of AgNPs in a silver containing garment and in the stratum corneum (SC) of healthy subjects (CTRLs) and individuals with atopic dermatitis (AD). Seven CTRLs and seven AD patients wore a silver sleeve (13% Ag w/w) 8 h/day for five days on a forearm and a placebo sleeve on the other forearm. After five days, the layers of the SC were collected by adhesive tapes. The silver particles in the garment and SC were characterized by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). AFM and SEM revealed the presence of sub-micrometre particles having a broad range of sizes (30–500 nm) on the surface of the garment that were identified as silver. On the SC tapes collected from different depths, aggregates with a wide range of sizes (150 nm−2 μm) and morphologies were found. Most aggregates contained primarily silver, although some also contained chlorine and sulfur. There was no clear difference in the number or size of the aggregates observed in SC between healthy and AD subjects. After use, AgNPs and their aggregates were present in the SC at different depths of both healthy subjects and AD patients. Their micrometre size suggests that aggregation likely occurred in the SC. PMID:27647219

  2. Synthesis and characterization of silver-copper core-shell nanoparticles using polyol method for antimicrobial agent

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hikmah, N.; Idrus, N. F.; Jai, J.; Hadi, A.

    2016-06-01

    Silver and copper nanoparticles are well-known as the good antimicrobial agent. The nano-size of particles influences in enhancing the antimicrobial activity. This paper discusses the effect of molarity on the microstructure and morphology of silver-copper core-shell nanoparticles prepared by a polyol method. In this study, silver-copper nanoparticles are synthesized through the green approach of polyol method using ethylene glycol (EG) as green solvent and reductant, and polyoxyethylene-(80)-sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80) as a nontoxic stabilizer. The phase and morphology of silver-copper nanoparticles are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and Transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results XRD confirm the pure crystalline of silver and copper nanoparticles with face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. FESEM and TEM analysis confirm the existence of Ag and Cu nanoparticles in core-shell shape.

  3. Effect of alkali ions (Na+, K+, Cs+) on reaction mechanism of CZTS nano-particles synthesis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Suresh; Altosaar, Mare; Grossberg, Maarja; Mikli, Valdek

    2018-04-01

    The control of morphology, elemental composition and phase composition of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) nano-crystals depends on the control of complex formation and surface stabilization of nano-particles in solution-based synthesis in oleylamine. At temperatures ≥280 °C, the control of nano-crystal's morphology and homogenous growth is difficult because of fast poly-nuclear growth occurring at higher temperatures. In the present work the effect of oleylamine complex formation with different alkali ions (Na+, K+ and Cs+) on nano-crystals growth at synthesis temperature of 280 °C was studied. It was found that nano-powders synthesized in the presence of Na+ and K+ ions showed the formation of crystals of different sizes - small nano-particles (18 nm-30 nm), large aggregated crystals (few nm to 1 μm) and large single crystals (1 μm - 4 μm). The presence of Cs+ ions in the nano-powder synthesis in oleylamine-metal precursor-CsOH solution promoted growth of nano-crystals of homogenous size. It is proposed that the formed oleylamine-Cs complexes a) enhance the formation and stabilization of oleylamine-metal (Cu, Zn and Sn) complexes before the injection of sulphur precursor into the oleylamine-metal precursor solution and b) after addition of sulphur stabilize the fast nucleated nano-particles and promote diffusion limited growth.

  4. Chitosan-coated doxorubicin nano-particles drug delivery system inhibits cell growth of liver cancer via p53/PRC1 pathway.

    PubMed

    Ye, Bai-Liang; Zheng, Ru; Ruan, Xiao-Jiao; Zheng, Zhi-Hai; Cai, Hua-Jie

    2018-01-01

    Nano-particles have been widely used in target-specific drug delivery system and showed advantages in cancers treatment. This study aims to evaluate the effect of chitosan coated doxorubicin nano-particles drug delivery system in liver cancer. The chitosan nano-particles were prepared by using the ionic gelation method. The characterizations of the nano-particles were determined by transmission electron microscopy. The cytotoxicity was detected by MTT assay, and the endocytosis, cell apoptosis and cell cycle were examined by flow cytometry. The protein level was analyzed with western blot. The dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to assess the interaction between p53 and the promoter of PRC1, and chromatin immune-precipitation was used to verify the binding between them. The FA-CS-DOX nano-particles were irregular and spherical particles around 30-40 nm, with uniform size and no adhesion. No significant difference was noted in doxorubicin release rate between CS-DOX and FA-CS-DOX. FA-CS-DOX nano-particles showed stronger cytotoxicity than CS-DOX. FA-CS-DOX nano-particles promoted the apoptosis and arrested cell cycle at G2/M phase, and they up-regulated p53. FA-CS-DOX nano-particles inhibited cell survival through p53/PRC1 pathway. Chitosan-coated doxorubicin nano-particles drug delivery system inhibits cell growth of liver cancer by promoting apoptosis and arresting cell cycle at G2/M phase through p53/PRC1 pathway. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Semi-flexible polymer engendered aggregation/dispersion of fullerene (C60) nano-particles: An atomistic investigation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Sunil; Pattanayek, Sudip K.

    2018-06-01

    Semi flexible polymer chain has been modeled by choosing various values of persistent length (stiffness). As the polymer chain stiffness increases, the shape of polymer chain changes from globule to extended cigar to toroid like structure during cooling from a high temperature. The aggregation of fullerene nano-particles is found to depend on the morphology of polymer chain. To maximize, the number of polymer bead-nanoparticle contacts, all nano-particle have positioned inside the polymer globule. To minimize, the energy penalty, due to bending of the polymer chain, all nano-particle have positioned on the surface of the polymer's cigar and toroid morphology.

  6. Hollow-fiber flow field-flow fractionation and multi-angle light scattering investigation of the size, shape and metal-release of silver nanoparticles in aqueous medium for nano-risk assessment.

    PubMed

    Marassi, Valentina; Casolari, Sonia; Roda, Barbara; Zattoni, Andrea; Reschiglian, Pierluigi; Panzavolta, Silvia; Tofail, Syed A M; Ortelli, Simona; Delpivo, Camilla; Blosi, Magda; Costa, Anna Luisa

    2015-03-15

    Due to the increased use of silver nanoparticles in industrial scale manufacturing, consumer products and nanomedicine reliable measurements of properties such as the size, shape and distribution of these nano particles in aqueous medium is critical. These properties indeed affect both functional properties and biological impacts especially in quantifying associated risks and identifying suitable risk-mediation strategies. The feasibility of on-line coupling of a fractionation technique such as hollow-fiber flow field flow fractionation (HF5) with a light scattering technique such as MALS (multi-angle light scattering) is investigated here for this purpose. Data obtained from such a fractionation technique and its combination thereof with MALS have been compared with those from more conventional but often complementary techniques e.g. transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence. The combination of fractionation and multi angle light scattering techniques have been found to offer an ideal, hyphenated methodology for a simultaneous size-separation and characterization of silver nanoparticles. The hydrodynamic radii determined by fractionation techniques can be conveniently correlated to the mean average diameters determined by multi angle light scattering and reliable information on particle morphology in aqueous dispersion has been obtained. The ability to separate silver (Ag(+)) ions from silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) via membrane filtration during size analysis is an added advantage in obtaining quantitative insights to its risk potential. Most importantly, the methodology developed in this article can potentially be extended to similar characterization of metal-based nanoparticles when studying their functional effectiveness and hazard potential. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Geometrical effects on the electron residence time in semiconductor nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Koochi, Hakimeh; Ebrahimi, Fatemeh

    2014-09-07

    We have used random walk (RW) numerical simulations to investigate the influence of the geometry on the statistics of the electron residence time τ(r) in a trap-limited diffusion process through semiconductor nano-particles. This is an important parameter in coarse-grained modeling of charge carrier transport in nano-structured semiconductor films. The traps have been distributed randomly on the surface (r(2) model) or through the whole particle (r(3) model) with a specified density. The trap energies have been taken from an exponential distribution and the traps release time is assumed to be a stochastic variable. We have carried out (RW) simulations to study the effect of coordination number, the spatial arrangement of the neighbors and the size of nano-particles on the statistics of τ(r). It has been observed that by increasing the coordination number n, the average value of electron residence time, τ̅(r) rapidly decreases to an asymptotic value. For a fixed coordination number n, the electron's mean residence time does not depend on the neighbors' spatial arrangement. In other words, τ̅(r) is a porosity-dependence, local parameter which generally varies remarkably from site to site, unless we are dealing with highly ordered structures. We have also examined the effect of nano-particle size d on the statistical behavior of τ̅(r). Our simulations indicate that for volume distribution of traps, τ̅(r) scales as d(2). For a surface distribution of traps τ(r) increases almost linearly with d. This leads to the prediction of a linear dependence of the diffusion coefficient D on the particle size d in ordered structures or random structures above the critical concentration which is in accordance with experimental observations.

  8. Geometrical effects on the electron residence time in semiconductor nano-particles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Koochi, Hakimeh; Ebrahimi, Fatemeh, E-mail: f-ebrahimi@birjand.ac.ir; Solar Energy Research Group, University of Birjand, Birjand

    2014-09-07

    We have used random walk (RW) numerical simulations to investigate the influence of the geometry on the statistics of the electron residence time τ{sub r} in a trap-limited diffusion process through semiconductor nano-particles. This is an important parameter in coarse-grained modeling of charge carrier transport in nano-structured semiconductor films. The traps have been distributed randomly on the surface (r{sup 2} model) or through the whole particle (r{sup 3} model) with a specified density. The trap energies have been taken from an exponential distribution and the traps release time is assumed to be a stochastic variable. We have carried out (RW)more » simulations to study the effect of coordination number, the spatial arrangement of the neighbors and the size of nano-particles on the statistics of τ{sub r}. It has been observed that by increasing the coordination number n, the average value of electron residence time, τ{sup ¯}{sub r} rapidly decreases to an asymptotic value. For a fixed coordination number n, the electron's mean residence time does not depend on the neighbors' spatial arrangement. In other words, τ{sup ¯}{sub r} is a porosity-dependence, local parameter which generally varies remarkably from site to site, unless we are dealing with highly ordered structures. We have also examined the effect of nano-particle size d on the statistical behavior of τ{sup ¯}{sub r}. Our simulations indicate that for volume distribution of traps, τ{sup ¯}{sub r} scales as d{sup 2}. For a surface distribution of traps τ{sup ¯}{sub r} increases almost linearly with d. This leads to the prediction of a linear dependence of the diffusion coefficient D on the particle size d in ordered structures or random structures above the critical concentration which is in accordance with experimental observations.« less

  9. Effects of particle size and coating on nanoscale Ag and TiO₂ exposure in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos.

    PubMed

    Osborne, Olivia J; Johnston, Blair D; Moger, Julian; Balousha, Mohammed; Lead, Jamie R; Kudoh, Tetsuhiro; Tyler, Charles R

    2013-12-01

    Manufactured metal (oxide) nanoparticles are entering the aquatic environment with little understanding on their potential health impacts for exposed organisms. Adopting an integrative approach, we investigated effects of particle size and coating on biological responses for two of the most commonly used metal (oxide) nanoscale particles, silver (Ag) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) in zebrafish embryos. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nominally, 4 nm, 10 nm, 30 nm and 134 nm) had little or no toxicity on the endpoints measured. Ag both in nano form (10 nm and 35 nm) and its larger counterpart (600-1600 nm) induced dose-dependent lethality and morphological defects, occurring predominantly during gastrula stage. Of the silver material tested 10 nm nanoparticles appeared to be the most toxic. Coating Ag nanoparticles with citrate or fulvic acid decreased toxicity significantly. In situ hybridisation analysis identified the yolk syncytial layer (YSL) as a target tissue for Ag-nano toxicity where there was a significant induction of the heavy metal stress response gene, metallothionein 2 (Mt2) at sub-lethal exposures. Coherent Anti-stroke Raman Scattering (CARS) microscopy provided no evidence for silver particles crossing the chorionic membrane in exposed embryos. Collectively, our data suggest that silver ions play a major role in the toxicity of Ag nanoparticles.

  10. Chemical characterization, nano-particle mineralogy and particle size distribution of basalt dust wastes.

    PubMed

    Dalmora, Adilson C; Ramos, Claudete G; Oliveira, Marcos L S; Teixeira, Elba C; Kautzmann, Rubens M; Taffarel, Silvio R; de Brum, Irineu A S; Silva, Luis F O

    2016-01-01

    Understanding the geochemistry of basalt alteration is central to the study of agriculture systems. Various nano-minerals play an important role in the mobilization of contaminants and their subsequent uptake by plants. We present a new analytical experimental approach in combination with an integrated analytical protocol designed to study basalt alteration processes. Recently, throughout the world, ultra-fine and nano-particles derived from basalt dust wastes (BDW) during "stonemeal" soil fertilizer application have been of great concern for their possible adverse effects on human health and environmental pollution. Samples of BDW utilized were obtained from companies in the Nova Prata mining district in southern Brazil for chemical characterization and nano-mineralogy investigation, using an integrated application of advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), High Resolution-Transmission Electron microscopy (HR-TEM)/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS)/(selected-area diffraction pattern) SAED, Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM/EDS), and granulometric distribution analysis. The investigation has revealed that BDW materials are dominated by SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3, with a complex micromineralogy including alkali feldspar, augite, barite, labradorite, hematite, heulandrite, gypsum, kaolinite, quartz, and smectite. In addition, we have identified a number of trace metals such as Cd, Cu, Cr, and Zn, that are preferentially concentrated into the finer, inhalable, dust fraction and, thus, could present a health hazard in the urban areas around the basalt mining zone. The implication of this observation is that use of these nanometric-sized particulates as soil fertilizer may present different health challenges to those of conventional fertilizers, inviting future work regarding the relative toxicities of these materials. Our investigation on the particle size distribution, nano-particle mineralogy and chemical composition in

  11. Effect of BaTiO3 nano-particles on breakdown performance of propylene carbonate.

    PubMed

    Hou, Yanpan; Zhang, Zicheng; Zhang, Jiande; Liu, Zhuofeng; Song, Zuyin

    2015-05-01

    As an alternative to water, propylene carbonate (PC) has a good application prospect in the compact pulsed power sources for its breakdown strength higher than that of water, resistivity bigger than 10(9) Ω m, and low freezing temperature (-49 °C). In this paper, the investigation into dielectric breakdown of PC and PC-based nano-fluids (NFs) subjected to high amplitude electric field is presented with microsecond pulses applied to a 1 mm gap full of PC or NFs between spherical electrodes. One kind of NF is composed of PC mixed with 0.5-1.4 vol. % BaTiO3 (BT) nano-particles of mean diameter ≈100 nm and another is mixed with 0.3-0.8 vol. % BT nano-particles of mean diameter ≈30 nm. The experimental results demonstrate the rise of permittivity and improvement of the breakdown strength of NFs compared with PC. Moreover, it is found that there exists an optimum fraction for these NFs corresponding to tremendous surface area in nano-composites with finite mesoscopic thickness. In concrete, the dielectric breakdown voltage of NFs is 33% higher than that of PC as the volume concentration of nano-particles with a 100 nm diameter is 0.9% and the breakdown voltage of NFs is 40% higher as the volume concentration of nano-particles with a 30 nm diameter is 0.6%. These phenomena are considered as the dielectric breakdown voltage of PC-based NFs is increased because the interfaces between nano-fillers and PC matrices provide myriad trap sites for charge carriers, which play a dominant role in the breakdown performance of NFs.

  12. Observation the Distribution of Titanium Dioxide Nano-particles in an Experimental Tumor Tissue by a Raman Microscope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bibin, Andriana B.; Kume, Kyo; Tsutumi, Kotaro; Fukunaga, Yukihiro; Ito, Shinnji; Imamura, Yoshiaki; Miyoshi, Norio

    2011-12-01

    One of the most important technologies of the 21st century is nanotechnology. Many researchers will have been focusing to employ nanotechnology for medical purpose. Our team was interested in focusing to the application of titanium dioxide (TiO2), as nano-particles, for medical purpose especially drug delivery for the cancer and tumor. The administrations of TiO2 nano-particle via the oral administration of the interface layer particles into the mouse transplanted squamous-cell-carcinoma (SCC) have already conducted. Histology study and Raman spectroscope data were applied to the serial section of frozen tumor tissue in order to observe the distribution of TiO2 nano-particle within the SCC tissue. We used near infrared laser Raman microscopy system, the wavelength is 785 nm. Hematoxyline & eosin stained image and the Raman microscopy system were also used for analyzing the photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5-ALA and TiO2-particle-sol [TiO2]-ALA-treated tumor samples. As the result, we demonstrated the distribution of TiO2, where TiO2 particles were detected to be distributed in the blood vessel at the bleeding in the SCC tumor tissue. PDT with TiO2 nano-particles that is presented in the SCC-transplanted mouse tumor model can cause the enhancement of photodynamic reaction by nano-particles. Therefore, the combinations of PDT with TiO2 nano-particles may have a possibility to be introduced to the human body in near future for diagnose and PDT treatment of the tumor.

  13. Solution-processed photodetectors from colloidal silicon nano/micro particle composite.

    PubMed

    Tu, Chang-Ching; Tang, Liang; Huang, Jiangdong; Voutsas, Apostolos; Lin, Lih Y

    2010-10-11

    We demonstrate solution-processed photodetectors composed of heavy-metal-free Si nano/micro particle composite. The colloidal Si particles are synthesized by electrochemical etching of Si wafers, followed by ultra-sonication to pulverize the porous surface. With alkyl ligand surface passivation through hydrosilylation reaction, the particles can form a stable colloidal suspension which exhibits bright photoluminescence under ultraviolet excitation and a broadband extinction spectrum due to enhanced scattering from the micro-size particles. The efficiency of the thin film photodetectors has been substantially improved by preventing oxidation of the particles during the etching process.

  14. A dimorphic magnetorheological elastomer incorporated with Fe nano-flakes modified carbonyl iron particles: preparation and characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, M.; Zhu, M.; Fu, J.; Yang, P. A.; Qi, S.

    2015-11-01

    This paper describes a simple and convenient approach for the synthesis of Fe nano-flakes coated spherical carbonyl iron particles (CIP-Nano-Fe). The morphology and composition of CIP-Nano-Fe were characterized using electron scanning microscope and x-ray diffraction analysis. The results indicated that the CI particles were coated with uniform and continuous Fe nanostructures. Partial substitution of CI particles with CIP-Nano-Fe constituted a novel dimorphic magnetorheological elastomer (D-MRE), and the influence of the content of CIP-Nano-Fe on the viscoelastic performance of the magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) were systematically studied. The magnetorheological properties and the damping properties of the D-MRE samples were analyzed to evaluate their dynamic properties. The experimental results indicated that the MR effect, the max loss factor and the magneto-induced loss factor in the sample 3 (CIP-Nano-Fe weight content 6 wt%) were approximately 1.32, 1.45 and 1.56 times that in the sample 1 (non-doped MRE). The approach to synthesize CIP-Nano-Fe reported here can be readily explored for fabricating particles modified by other metal nanostructures, and the resulting D-MREs are expected to be applied in various applications, especially in the field of vibration and noise control, involving vibration isolators, tunable engine mounts, noise insulation devices, and so forth.

  15. Nanostructured silver fabric as a free-standing NanoZyme for colorimetric detection of glucose in urine.

    PubMed

    Karim, Md N; Anderson, Samuel R; Singh, Sanjay; Ramanathan, Rajesh; Bansal, Vipul

    2018-07-01

    Enzyme-mimicking catalytic nanoparticles, more commonly known as NanoZymes, have been at the forefront for the development of new sensing platforms for the detection of a range of molecules. Although solution-based NanoZymes have shown promise in glucose detection, the ability to immobilize NanoZymes on highly absorbent surfaces, particularly on free-standing substrates that can be feasibly exposed and removed from the reaction medium, can offer significant benefits for a range of biosensing and catalysis applications. This work, for the first time, shows the ability of Ag nanoparticles embedded within the 3D matrix of a cotton fabric to act as a free-standing peroxidase-mimic NanoZyme for the rapid detection of glucose in complex biological fluids such as urine. The use of cotton fabric as a template not only allows high number of catalytically active sites to participate in the enzyme-mimic catalytic reaction, the absorbent property of the cotton fibres also helps in rapid absorption of biological molecules such as glucose during the sensing event. This, in turn, brings the target molecule of interest in close proximity of the NanoZyme catalyst enabling accurate detection of glucose in urine. Additionally, the ability to extract the free-standing cotton fabric-supported NanoZyme following the reaction overcomes the issue of potential interference from colloidal nanoparticles during the assay. Based on these unique characteristics, nanostructured silver fabrics offer remarkable promise for the detection of glucose and other biomolecules in complex biological and environmental fluids. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Sonocatalytic degradation of humic acid by N-doped TiO2 nano-particle in aqueous solution.

    PubMed

    Kamani, Hossein; Nasseri, Simin; Khoobi, Mehdi; Nabizadeh Nodehi, Ramin; Mahvi, Amir Hossein

    2016-01-01

    Un-doped and N-doped TiO2 nano-particles with different nitrogen contents were successfully synthesized by a simple sol-gel method, and were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Energy dispersive X-ray analysis and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectra techniques. Then enhancement of sonocatalytic degradation of humic acid by un-doped and N-doped TiO2 nano-particles in aqueous environment was investigated. The effects of various parameters such as initial concentration of humic acid, N-doping, and the degradation kinetics were investigated. The results of characterization techniques affirmed that the synthesis of un-doped and N-doped TiO2 nano-particles was successful. Degradation of humic acid by using different nano-particles obeyed the first-order kinetic. Among various nano-particles, N-doped TiO2 with molar doping ratio of 6 % and band gap of 2.92 eV, exhibited the highest sonocatalytic degradation with an apparent-first-order rate constant of 1.56 × 10(-2) min(-1). The high degradation rate was associated with the lower band gap energy and well-formed anatase phase. The addition of nano-catalysts could enhance the degradation efficiency of humic acid as well as N-doped TiO2 with a molar ratio of 6 %N/Ti was found the best nano-catalyst among the investigated catalysts. The sonocatalytic degradation with nitrogen doped semiconductors could be a suitable oxidation process for removal of refractory pollutants such as humic acid from aqueous solution.

  17. Sumac silver novel biodegradable nano composite for bio-medical application: antibacterial activity.

    PubMed

    Ghorbani, Parisa; Soltani, Mozhgan; Homayouni-Tabrizi, Masoud; Namvar, Farideh; Azizi, Susan; Mohammad, Rosfarizan; Moghaddam, Amin Boroumand

    2015-07-17

    The development of reliable and ecofriendly approaches for the production of nanomaterials is a significant aspect of nanotechnology nowadays. One of the most important methods, which shows enormous potential, is based on the green synthesis of nanoparticles using plant extract. In this paper, we aimed to develop a rapid, environmentally friendly process for the synthesis silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of sumac. The bioactive compounds of sumac extract seem to play a role in the synthesis and capping of silver nanoparticles. Structural, morphological and optical properties of the nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, XRD, FESEM and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The formation of Ag-NP was immediate within 10 min and confirmed with an absorbance band centered at 438 nm. The mean particle size for the green synthesized silver nanoparticles is 19.81 ± 3.67 nm and is fairly stable with a zeta potential value of -32.9 mV. The bio-formed Ag-NPs were effective against E. coli with a maximum inhibition zone of 14.3 ± 0.32 mm.

  18. Influence of Particle Size on Persistence and Clearance of Aerosolized Silver Nanoparticles in the Rat Lung

    PubMed Central

    Anderson, Donald S.; Patchin, Esther S.; Silva, Rona M.; Uyeminami, Dale L.; Sharmah, Arjun; Guo, Ting; Das, Gautom K.; Brown, Jared M.; Shannahan, Jonathan; Gordon, Terry; Chen, Lung Chi; Pinkerton, Kent E.; Van Winkle, Laura S.

    2015-01-01

    The growing use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in consumer products raises concerns about potential health effects. This study investigated the persistence and clearance of 2 different size AgNPs (20 and 110 nm) delivered to rats by single nose-only aerosol exposures (6 h) of 7.2 and 5.4 mg/m3, respectively. Rat lung tissue was assessed for silver accumulations using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), autometallography, and enhanced dark field microscopy. Involvement of tissue macrophages was assessed by scoring of silver staining in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Silver was abundant in most macrophages at 1 day post-exposure. The group exposed to 20 nm AgNP had the greatest number of silver positive BALF macrophages at 56 days post-exposure. While there was a significant decrease in the amount of silver in lung tissue at 56 days post-exposure compared with 1 day following exposure, at least 33% of the initial delivered dose was still present for both AgNPs. Regardless of particle size, silver was predominantly localized within the terminal bronchial/alveolar duct junction region of the lung associated with extracellular matrix and within epithelial cells. Inhalation of both 20 and 110 nm AgNPs resulted in a persistence of silver in the lung at 56 days post-exposure and local deposition as well as accumulation of silver at the terminal bronchiole alveolar duct junction. Further the smaller particles, 20 nm AgNP, produced a greater silver burden in BALF macrophages as well as greater persistence of silver positive macrophages at later timepoints (21 and 56 days). PMID:25577195

  19. Thermoelectric properties of SrTiO3 nano-particles dispersed indium selenide bulk composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Min Ho; Rhyee, Jong-Soo; Vaseem, Mohammad; Hahn, Yoon-Bong; Park, Su-Dong; Jin Kim, Hee; Kim, Sung-Jin; Lee, Hyeung Jin; Kim, Chilsung

    2013-06-01

    We investigated the thermoelectric properties of the InSe, InSe/In4Se3 composite, and SrTiO3 (STO) nano-particles dispersed InSe/In4Se3 bulk composites. The electrical conductivity of the InSe/In4Se3 composite with self-assembled phase separation is significantly increased compared with those of InSe and In4Se3-δ implying the enhancement of surface conductivity between grain boundaries. The thermal conductivity of InSe/In4Se3 composite is decreased compared to those of InSe. When the STO nano-particle dispersion was employed in the InSe/In4Se3 composite, a coherent interface was observed between nano-particle precipitates and the InSe bulk matrix with a reduction of the thermal conductivity.

  20. Optimization of mechanical performance of oxidative nano-particle electrode nitrile butadiene rubber conducting polymer actuator.

    PubMed

    Kim, Baek-Chul; Park, S J; Cho, M S; Lee, Y; Nam, J D; Choi, H R; Koo, J C

    2009-12-01

    Present work delivers a systematical evaluation of actuation efficiency of a nano-particle electrode conducting polymer actuator fabricated based on Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR). Attempts are made for maximizing mechanical functionality of the nano-particle electrode conducting polymer actuator that can be driven in the air. As the conducting polymer polypyrrole of the actuator is to be fabricated through a chemical oxidation polymerization process that may impose certain limitations on both electrical and mechanical functionality of the actuator, a coordinated study for optimization process of the actuator is necessary for maximizing its performance. In this article actuation behaviors of the nano-particle electrode polypyrrole conducting polymer is studied and an optimization process for the mechanical performance maximization is performed.

  1. Microalgae associated Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 as the nano particle synthesizing unit to produce antimicrobial silver nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rajamanickam, Karthic; Sudha, S. S.; Francis, Mebin; Sowmya, T.; Rengaramanujam, J.; Sivalingam, Periyasamy; Prabakar, Kandasamy

    2013-09-01

    The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and its antimicrobial property was studied using bacteria isolated from Spirulina products. Isolated bacteria were identified as Bacillus sp. MSK 1 (JX495945), Staphylococcus sp. MSK 2 (JX495946), Bacillus sp. MSK 3 (JX495947) and Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 (JX495948). Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using bacterial culture filtrate with AgNO3. The initial syntheses of Ag nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometer (by measuring the color change to intense brown). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) study showed evidence that proteins are possible reducing agents and Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) study showing the metal silver as major signal. The structure of AgNPs was determined by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Synthesized Ag nanoparticles with an average size of 40-65 nm have antimicrobial property against human pathogens like Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholera, Streptococcus sp., Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Among the isolates Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 alone showed good activity in both synthesis of AgNPs and antimicrobial activity. This work demonstrates the possible use of biological synthesized silver nanoparticles to combat the drug resistant problem.

  2. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using green tea leaves: Experimental study on the morphological, rheological and antibacterial behaviour

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakhjavani, Maryam; Nikkhah, V.; Sarafraz, M. M.; Shoja, Saeed; Sarafraz, Marzieh

    2017-10-01

    In this paper, silver nanoparticles are produced via green synthesis method using green tea leaves. The introduced method is cost-effective and available, which provides condition to manipulate and control the average nanoparticle size. The produced particles were characterized using x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopic images, UV visualization, digital light scattering, zeta potential measurement and thermal conductivity measurement. Results demonstrated that the produced samples of silver nanoparticles are pure in structure (based on the x-ray diffraction test), almost identical in terms of morphology (spherical and to some extent cubic) and show longer stability when dispersed in deionized water. The UV-visualization showed a peak in 450 nm, which is in accordance with the previous studies reported in the literature. Results also showed that small particles have higher thermal and antimicrobial performance. As green tea leaves are used for extracting the silver nanoparticles, the method is eco-friendly. The thermal behaviour of silver nanoparticle was also analysed by dispersing the nanoparticles inside the deionized water. Results showed that thermal conductivity of the silver nano-fluid is higher than that of obtained for the deionized water. Activity of Ag nanoparticles against some bacteria was also examined to find the suitable antibacterial application for the produced particles.

  3. Development of functional nano-particle layer for highly efficient OLED

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Jae-Hyun; Kim, Min-Hoi; Choi, Haechul; Choi, Yoonseuk

    2015-12-01

    Organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are now widely commercialized in market due to many advantages such as possibility of making thin or flexible devices. Nevertheless there are still several things to obtain the high quality flexible OLEDs, one of the most important issues is the light extraction of the device. It is known that OLEDs have the typical light loss such as the waveguide loss, plasmon absorption loss and internal total reflection. In this paper, we demonstrate the one-step processed light scattering films with aluminum oxide nano-particles and polystyrene matrix composite to achieve highly efficient OLEDs. Optical characteristics and surface roughness of light scattering film was optimized by changing the mixing concentration of Al2O3 nano-particles and investigated with the atomic force microscopy and hazemeter, respectively.

  4. Using graphene nano-particle embedded in photonic crystal fiber for evanescent wave mode-locking of fiber laser.

    PubMed

    Lin, Yung-Hsiang; Yang, Chun-Yu; Liou, Jia-Hong; Yu, Chin-Ping; Lin, Gong-Ru

    2013-07-15

    A photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with high-quality graphene nano-particles uniformly dispersed in the hole cladding are demonstrated to passively mode-lock the erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) by evanescent-wave interaction. The few-layer graphene nano-particles are obtained by a stabilized electrochemical exfoliation at a threshold bias. These slowly and softly exfoliated graphene nano-particle exhibits an intense 2D band and an almost disappeared D band in the Raman scattering spectrum. The saturable phenomena of the extinction coefficient β in the cladding provides a loss modulation for the intracavity photon intensity by the evanescent-wave interaction. The evanescent-wave mode-locking scheme effectively enlarges the interaction length of saturable absorption with graphene nano-particle to provide an increasing transmittance ΔT of 5% and modulation depth of 13%. By comparing the core-wave and evanescent-wave mode-locking under the same linear transmittance, the transmittance of the graphene nano-particles on the end-face of SMF only enlarges from 0.54 to 0.578 with ΔT = 3.8% and the modulation depth of 10.8%. The evanescent wave interaction is found to be better than the traditional approach which confines the graphene nano-particles at the interface of two SMF patchcords. When enlarging the intra-cavity gain by simultaneously increasing the pumping current of 980-nm and 1480-nm pumping laser diodes (LDs) to 900 mA, the passively mode-locked EDFL shortens its pulsewidth to 650 fs and broadens its spectral linewidth to 3.92 nm. An extremely low carrier amplitude jitter (CAJ) of 1.2-1.6% is observed to confirm the stable EDFL pulse-train with the cladding graphene nano-particle based evanescent-wave mode-locking.

  5. Effect of hydroxyapatite nano-particles on morphology, rheology and thermal behavior of poly(caprolactone)/chitosan blends.

    PubMed

    Ghorbani, Fereshte Mohammad; Kaffashi, Babak; Shokrollahi, Parvin; Akhlaghi, Shahin; Hedenqvist, Mikael S

    2016-02-01

    The effect of hydroxyapatite nano-particles (nHA) on morphology, and rheological and thermal properties of PCL/chitosan blends was investigated. The tendency of nHA to reside in the submicron-dispersed chitosan phase is determined using SEM and AFM images. The presence of electrostatic interaction between amide sites of chitosan and ionic groups on the nHA surface was proved by FTIR. It is shown that the chitosan phase is thermodynamically more favorable for the nano-particles to reside than the PCL phase. Lack of implementation of Cox-Merz theory for this system shows that the polymer-nano-particle network is destructed by the flow. Results from dynamic rheological measurements and Zener fractional model show that the presence of nHA increases the shear moduli and relaxation time of the PCL/chitosan blends. DSC measurements showed that nHA nano-particles are responsible for the increase in melting and crystallization characteristics of the PCL/chitosan blends. Based on thermogravimetric analysis, the PCL/chitosan/nHA nano-composites exhibited a greater thermal stability compared to the nHA-free blends. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Preparation of nano-hydroxyapatite particles with different morphology and their response to highly malignant melanoma cells in vitro

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Bo; Guo, Bo; Fan, Hongsong; Zhang, Xingdong

    2008-11-01

    To investigate the effects of nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) particles with different morphology on highly malignant melanoma cells, three kinds of HA particles with different morphology were synthesized and co-cultured with highly malignant melanoma cells using phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as control. A precipitation method with or without citric acid addition as surfactant was used to produce rod-like hydroxyapatite (HA) particles with nano- and micron size, respectively, and a novel oil-in-water emulsion method was employed to prepare ellipse-like nano-HA particles. Particle morphology and size distribution of the as prepared HA powders were characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering technique. The nano- and micron HA particles with different morphology were co-cultured with highly malignant melanoma cells. Immunofluorescence analysis and MTT assay were employed to evaluate morphological change of nucleolus and proliferation of tumour cells, respectively. To compare the effects of HA particles on cell response, the PBS without HA particles was used as control. The experiment results indicated that particle nanoscale effect rather than particle morphology of HA was more effective for the inhibition on highly malignant melanoma cells proliferation.

  7. Experimental study of improved rheology and lubricity of drilling fluids enhanced with nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bég, O. Anwar; Espinoza, D. E. Sanchez; Kadir, Ali; Shamshuddin, MD.; Sohail, Ayesha

    2018-04-01

    An experimental study of the rheology and lubricity properties of a drilling fluid is reported, motivated by applications in highly deviated and extended reach wells. Recent developments in nanofluids have identified that the judicious injection of nano-particles into working drilling fluids may resolve a number of issues including borehole instability, lost circulation, torque and drag, pipe sticking problems, bit balling and reduction in drilling speed. The aim of this article is, therefore, to evaluate the rheological characteristics and lubricity of different nano-particles in water-based mud, with the potential to reduce costs via a decrease in drag and torque during the construction of highly deviated and ERD wells. Extensive results are presented for percentage in torque variation and coefficient of friction before and after aging. Rheology is evaluated via apparent viscosity, plastic viscosity and gel strength variation before and after aging for water-based muds (WBM). Results are included for silica and titanium nano-particles at different concentrations. These properties were measured before and after aging the mud samples at 80 °C during 16 h at static conditions. The best performance was shown with titanium nano-particles at a concentration of 0.60% (w/w) before aging.

  8. Silver speciation and characterization of nanoparticles released from plastic food containers by single particle ICPMS.

    PubMed

    Ramos, K; Gómez-Gómez, M M; Cámara, C; Ramos, L

    2016-05-01

    Silver migration from a commercial baby feeding bottle and a food box containing AgNPs, as confirmed by SEM-EDX analysis, was evaluated using food simulant solutions [i.e., water, 3% (v/v) acetic acid, and 10% and 90% (v/v) ethanol]. Silver release was investigated at temperatures in the 20-70°C range using contact times of up to 10 days. Migration of silver from the food box was in all cases 2 to 3 orders of magnitude higher than that observed for the baby bottle, although the total silver content in the original box material was half of that found in the baby bottle. As expected, for both food containers, silver migration depended on both the nature of the tested solution and the applied conditions. The highest release was observed for 3% acetic acid at 70°C for 2h, corresponding to 62ngdm(2) and 1887ngdm(-2) of silver for the baby bottle and the food box, respectively. Single particle-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICPMS) was used to characterise and quantify AgNPs in the food simulants extracts. Sample preparation was optimized to preserve AgNPs integrity. The experimental parameters affecting AgNPs detection, sizing and quantification by SP-ICPMS were also optimised. Analyses of water and acidic extracts revealed the presence of both dissolved silver and AgNPs. Small AgNPs (in the 18-30nm range) and particle number concentrations within the 4-1510 10(6)L(-1) range were detected, corresponding to only 0.1-8.6% of the total silver released from these materials. The only exception was AgNPs migrated into water at 40°C and 70°C from the food box, which accounted for as much as 34% and 69% of the total silver content, respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Microalgae associated Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 as the nano particle synthesizing unit to produce antimicrobial silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Rajamanickam, Karthic; Sudha, S S; Francis, Mebin; Sowmya, T; Rengaramanujam, J; Sivalingam, Periyasamy; Prabakar, Kandasamy

    2013-09-01

    The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and its antimicrobial property was studied using bacteria isolated from Spirulina products. Isolated bacteria were identified as Bacillus sp. MSK 1 (JX495945), Staphylococcus sp. MSK 2 (JX495946), Bacillus sp. MSK 3 (JX495947) and Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 (JX495948). Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using bacterial culture filtrate with AgNO3. The initial syntheses of Ag nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometer (by measuring the color change to intense brown). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) study showed evidence that proteins are possible reducing agents and Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) study showing the metal silver as major signal. The structure of AgNPs was determined by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Synthesized Ag nanoparticles with an average size of 40-65 nm have antimicrobial property against human pathogens like Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholera, Streptococcus sp., Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Among the isolates Brevundimonas sp. MSK 4 alone showed good activity in both synthesis of AgNPs and antimicrobial activity. This work demonstrates the possible use of biological synthesized silver nanoparticles to combat the drug resistant problem. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Effects of SiO2 nano-particles on tribological and mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites by different dispersion methods

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azadi, Mahboobeh; Zolfaghari, Mehrdad; Rezanezhad, Saeid; Azadi, Mohammad

    2018-05-01

    This study has been presented with mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites, reinforced by SiO2 nano-particles. The stir casting method was employed to produce various aluminum matrix composites. Different composites by varying the SiO2 nano-particle content (including 0.5 and 1 weight percents) and two dispersion methods (including ball-milling and pre-heating) were made. Then, the density, the hardness, the compression strength, the wear resistance and the microstructure of nano-composites have been studied in this research. Besides, the distribution of nano-particles in the aluminum matrix for all composites has been also evaluated by the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Obtained results showed that the density, the elongation and the ultimate compressive strength of various nano-composites decreased by the presence of SiO2 nano-particles; however, the hardness, the wear resistance, the yield strength and the elastic modulus of composites increased by auditioning of nano-particles to the aluminum alloy. FESEM images indicated better wetting of the SiO2 reinforcement in the aluminum matrix, prepared by the pre-heating dispersion method, comparing to ball-milling. When SiO2 nano-particles were added to the aluminum alloy, the morphology of the Si phase and intermetallic phases changed, which enhanced mechanical properties. In addition, the wear mechanism plus the friction coefficient value were changed for various nano-composites with respect to the aluminum alloy.

  11. Silver Dissolution and Release from Ceramic Water Filters.

    PubMed

    Mittelman, Anjuliee M; Lantagne, Daniele S; Rayner, Justine; Pennell, Kurt D

    2015-07-21

    Application of silver nanoparticles (nAg) or silver nitrate (AgNO3) has been shown to improve the microbiological efficacy of ceramic water filters used for household water treatment. Silver release, however, can lead to undesirable health effects and reduced filter effectiveness over time. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the contribution of nanoparticle detachment, dissolution, and cation exchange to silver elution, and to estimate silver retention under different influent water chemistries. Dissolved silver (Ag(+)) and nAg release from filter disks painted with 0.03 mg/g casein-coated nAg or AgNO3 were measured as a function of pH (5-9), ionic strength (1-50 mM), and cation species (Na(+), Ca(2+), Mg(2+)). Silver elution was controlled by dissolution as Ag(+) and subsequent cation exchange reactions regardless of the applied silver form. Effluent silver levels fell below the drinking water standard (0.1 mg/L) after flushing with 30-42 pore volumes of pH 7, 10 mM NaNO3 at pH 7. When the influent water was at pH 5, contained divalent cations or 50 mM NaNO3, silver concentrations were 5-10 times above the standard. Our findings support regular filter replacement and indicate that saline, hard, or acidic waters should be avoided to minimize effluent silver concentrations and preserve silver treatment integrity.

  12. Mobilization and biodegradation of 2-methylnaphthalene by amphiphilic polyurethane nano-particle.

    PubMed

    Kim, Young-Bum; Kim, Ju-Young; Kim, Eun-ki

    2009-10-01

    Amphiphilic polyurethane (APU) nano-particle enhanced the mobilization of 2-methylnaphthalene (2-MNPT) in soil. Significant increase in the solubility of 2-MNPT was achieved. The molar solubilization ratio was 0.4 (mole 2-MNPT/mole APU). Simple precipitation of APU particle by 2 N CaCl(2) recovered 95% of APU particle and 92% of 2-MNPT simultaneously. Also, 2-MNPT, which was entrapped inside the APU particle, was directly degraded by Acinetobacter sp. as same efficiency as without APU particle. These results showed the potentials of APU particle in the mobilization and biodegradation of hydrophobic compounds from soil.

  13. Neuroprotective effect of curcumin-loaded lactoferrin nano particles against rotenone induced neurotoxicity.

    PubMed

    Bollimpelli, V Satish; Kumar, Prashant; Kumari, Sonali; Kondapi, Anand K

    2016-05-01

    Curcumin is known to have neuroprotective role and possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities. Rotenone, a flavonoid induced neurotoxicity in dopaminergic cells is being widely studied in Parkinson's Disease (PD) research. In the present study, curcumin loaded lactoferrin nano particles prepared by sol-oil chemistry were used to protect dopaminergic cell line SK-N-SH against rotenone induced neurotoxicity. These curcumin loaded nano particles were of 43-60 nm diameter size and around 100 nm hydrodynamic size as assessed by transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis respectively. The encapsulation efficiency was 61.3% ± 2.4%. Cellular uptake of curcumin through these nano particles was confirmed by confocal imaging and spectrofluorimetric analysis. The curcumin loaded lactoferrin nanoparticles showed greater intracellular drug uptake, sustained retention and greater neuroprotection than soluble counterpart. Neuroprotective activity was characterized through viability assays and by estimating ROS levels. Furthermore rotenone induced PD like features were characterized by decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase expression and increase in α-synuclein expression. Taken together curcumin loaded lactoferrin nanoparticles could be a promising drug delivery strategy against neurotoxicity in dopaminergic neurons. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. The Nano-filters as the tools for the management of the water imbalance in the human society

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singh, R. P.; Kontar, V.

    2011-12-01

    The imbalance of water in the human society there is some situation where the water demand is not equivalent to the water supply. We are talking now about the shortage of some clear water which suitable for human use, animals, plants, technologies etc. There are existing some various imbalances of water in the human society, but about this will be other publications. The humanity has have the millennial experience of the water imbalance management. The novelty of the matter is the new nano-materials which offer a lot of the new principles more effective management of the water imbalance in the human society. The nano-materials have typical pore size 0.001 micron (1 nano-meter). There are some metal-containing nano-particles, CNTs, fullerene, graphene, zeolites and dendrimers etc, The nano-materials have unique physicochemical properties due to their large surface areas, size and shape-dependent optical, electronic, and catalytic properties that make them very useful for separation components some various stuff and water also. They have ability to functionalize with various chemical groups to increase their affinity toward a desired compound. The silver nano-wires have established a variety of applications, including transparent conductive electrodes for solar cells and optoelectronic. The salt of silver i.e. bulk silver shows photo-catalytic properties. The gold decorated silver nano-wires film may clean the organic molecule while irradiated with either commercial bulb or sun light. The mat (membrane) papers of nano-wires may clean up spilled oil at sea and organic pollutants in water. Arsenic-poisoned drinking water is a global problem, affecting people in Asia, Africa, North America, South America and Europe. Tiny bits of iron oxide that are smaller than living cells known as nanorust, which naturally binds with arsenic, could be used as a low-cost means of removing arsenic from water. Nano-tea bag purifies water on a small scale. The sachets are made up from the

  15. Detection of silver nanoparticles in cells by flow cytometry using light scatter and far-red fluorescence.

    PubMed

    Zucker, R M; Daniel, K M; Massaro, E J; Karafas, S J; Degn, L L; Boyes, W K

    2013-10-01

    The cellular uptake of different sized silver nanoparticles (AgNP) (10, 50, and 75 nm) coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or citrate on a human derived retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19) was detected by flow cytometry following 24-h incubation of the cells with AgNP. A dose dependent increase of side scatter and far red fluorescence was observed with both PVP and citrate-coated 50 nm or 75 nm silver particles. Using five different flow cytometers, a far red fluorescence signal in the 700-800 nm range increased as much as 100 times background as a ratio comparing the intensity measurements of treated sample and controls. The citrate-coated silver nanoparticles (AgNP) revealed slightly more side scatter and far red fluorescence than did the PVP coated silver nanoparticles. This increased far red fluorescence signal was observed with 50 and 75 nm particles, but not with 10 nm particles. Morphological evaluation by dark field microscopy showed silver particles (50 and 75 nm) clumped and concentrated around the nucleus. One possible hypothesis to explain the emission of far red fluorescence from cells incubated with silver nanoparticles is that the silver nanoparticles inside cells agglomerate into small nano clusters that form surface plasmon resonance which interacts with laser light to emit a strong far red fluorescence signal. The results demonstrate that two different parameters (side scatter and far red fluorescence) on standard flow cytometers can be used to detect and observe metallic nanoparticles inside cells. The strength of the far red fluorescence suggests that it may be particularly useful for applications that require high sensitivity. © Published 2013 Wiley-Periodicals, Inc. Published 2013 Wiley‐Periodicals, Inc. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.

  16. Durable Self-Cleaning Coatings for Architectural Surfaces by Incorporation of TiO2 Nano-Particles into Hydroxyapatite Films

    PubMed Central

    Sassoni, Enrico; D’Amen, Eros; Roveri, Norberto

    2018-01-01

    To prevent soiling of marble exposed outdoors, the use of TiO2 nano-particles has been proposed in the literature by two main routes, both raising durability issues: (i) direct application to marble surface, with the risk of particle leaching by rainfall; (ii) particle incorporation into inorganic or organic coatings, with the risk of organic coating degradation catalyzed by TiO2 photoactivity. Here, we investigated the combination of nano-TiO2 and hydroxyapatite (HAP), previously developed for marble protection against dissolution in rain and mechanical consolidation. HAP-TiO2 combination was investigated by two routes: (i) sequential application of HAP followed by nano-TiO2 (“H+T”); (ii) simultaneous application by introducing nano-TiO2 into the phosphate solution used to form HAP (“HT”). The self-cleaning ability was evaluated before and after prolonged exposure to simulated rain. “H+T” and “HT” coatings exhibited much better resistance to nano-TiO2 leaching by rain, compared to TiO2 alone. In “H+T” samples, TiO2 nano-particles adhere better to HAP (having flower-like morphology and high specific surface area) than to marble. In “HT” samples, thanks to chemical bonds between nano-TiO2 and HAP, the particles are firmly incorporated in the HAP coating, which protects them from leaching by rain, without diminishing their photoactivity and without being degraded by them. PMID:29360789

  17. Numerical investigation of field enhancement by metal nano-particles using a hybrid FDTD-PSTD algorithm.

    PubMed

    Pernice, W H; Payne, F P; Gallagher, D F

    2007-09-03

    We present a novel numerical scheme for the simulation of the field enhancement by metal nano-particles in the time domain. The algorithm is based on a combination of the finite-difference time-domain method and the pseudo-spectral time-domain method for dispersive materials. The hybrid solver leads to an efficient subgridding algorithm that does not suffer from spurious field spikes as do FDTD schemes. Simulation of the field enhancement by gold particles shows the expected exponential field profile. The enhancement factors are computed for single particles and particle arrays. Due to the geometry conforming mesh the algorithm is stable for long integration times and thus suitable for the simulation of resonance phenomena in coupled nano-particle structures.

  18. Nano- and Microscale Particles in Vortex Motions in Earth's Atmosphere and Ionosphere

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Popel, S. I.; Izvekova, Yu. N.; Shukla, P. K.

    2010-12-14

    Vortex motions in the atmosphere are shown to be closely connected with dynamics of the dust nano- and microscale particles. The mechanism by which nano- and microscale particles are transported from the troposphere into the lower stratosphere by synoptic-scale vortices, simulated by the soliton solutions to the Charney-Obukhov equations (Rossby vortices), is described. Redistribution of dust particles in the ionosphere as a result of vortical motions is discussed. It is shown that excitation of acoustic-gravitational vortices at altitudes of 110-130 km as a result of development of acoustic-gravitational wave instability, associated with nonzero balance of heat fluxes, owing to solarmore » radiation, water vapors condensation, infrared emission of the atmosphere, and thermal conductivity, leads to a substantial transportation of dust particles and their mixing at altitudes of 110-120 km. One of the ways of transportation of dust particles in the ionosphere is shown to be vertical flows (streamers), which are generated by dust vortices as a result of development of parametric instability.« less

  19. Functionalized nano-graphene oxide particles for targeted fluorescence imaging and photothermy of glioma U251 cells.

    PubMed

    Li, Zhong-Jun; Li, Chao; Zheng, Mei-Guang; Pan, Jia-Dong; Zhang, Li-Ming; Deng, Yue-Fei

    2015-01-01

    This study was to prepare the functionalized nano-graphene oxide (nano-GO) particles, and observe targeted fluorescence imaging and photothermy of U251 glioma cells under near infrared (NIR) exposure. The functionalized nano-GO-Tf-FITC particles were prepared and then were incubated with U251 glioma cells. Estimation of CCK8 cell activity was adopted for measurement of cytotoxicity. The effect of fluorescein imaging was detected by fluorescence microscope with anti-CD71-FITC as a control. Finally, we detected the killing efficacy with flow cytometry after an 808 nm NIR exposure. Both nano-GO-Tf-FITC group and CD71-FITC group exhibited green-yellow fluorescence, while the control group without the target molecule nano-GO-FITC was negative. The nano-GO-Tf-FITC was incubated with U251 cells at 0.1 mg/ml, 1.0 mg/ml, 3.0 mg/ml and 5.0 mg/ml. After 48 h of incubation, the absorbance was 0.747 ± 0.031, 0.732 ± 0.043, 0.698 ± 0.051 and 0.682 ± 0.039, while the absorbance of control group is 0.759 ± 0.052. There is no significant difference between the nano-GO-FITC groups and control group. In addition, the apoptosis and death index of nano-GO-Tf-FITC group was significantly higher than that of nano-GO-FITC and blank control group (P < 0.05). The nano-GO-Tf-FITC particles with good biological compatibility and low cytotoxicity are successfully made, which have an observed effect of target imaging and photothermal therapy on glioma U251 cells.

  20. High surface area neodymium phosphate nano particles by modified aqueous sol-gel method

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sankar, Sasidharan; Warrier, Krishna Gopakumar, E-mail: wwarrierkgk@yahoo.co.in; Komban, Rajesh

    2011-12-15

    Graphical abstract: Synthesis of nano rod shaped neodymium phosphate particles with specific surface area as high as 107 m{sup 2} g{sup -1} and particles could be compacted and sintered at as low as 1300 Degree-Sign C to a density of 98.5% (theoretical) with an average grain size of {approx}1 {mu}m. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nano size neodymium phosphate is synthesized and characterized using a novel modified aqueous sol gel process. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Specific surface area above 100 m{sup 2} g{sup -1} achieved without the addition of any complexing agents. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High sintered density reported than the density obtained for powder synthesized through conventionalmore » solid state reaction. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The particles are nano sized and have rod shape morphology and are retained at higher temperatures. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer An average grain size of {approx}1 {mu}m obtained for sintered NdPO{sub 4} after thermal etching at 1400 Degree-Sign C. -- Abstract: Synthesis of nano rod shaped neodymium phosphate (NdPO{sub 4}) particles with specific surface area as high as 107 m{sup 2}g{sup -1} and an average length of 50 nm with aspect ratio 5 was achieved using modified sol gel method. Crystallite size calculated from the X-ray diffraction data by applying Scherer equation was 5 nm for the precursor gel after calcination at 400 Degree-Sign C. NdPO{sub 4} was first precipitated from neodymium nitrate solution using phosphoric acid followed by peptization using dilute nitric acid and further gelation in ammonia atmosphere. The calcined gel powders were further characterized by surface area (Brunauer-Emmet-Teller nitrogen adsorption analysis), Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis and FT-IR analysis. Transmission electron microscopy confirms the formation of rod like morphology from the sol, gel and the calcined particles in nano size range. These particles could be

  1. Shielding properties of the ordinary concrete loaded with micro- and nano-particles against neutron and gamma radiations.

    PubMed

    Mesbahi, Asghar; Ghiasi, Hosein

    2018-06-01

    The shielding properties of ordinary concrete doped with some micro and nano scaled materials were studied in the current study. Narrow beam geometry was simulated using MCNPX Monte Carlo code and the mass attenuation coefficient of ordinary concrete doped with PbO 2 , Fe 2 O 3 , WO 3 and H 4 B (Boronium) in both nano and micro scales was calculated for photon and neutron beams. Mono-energetic beams of neutrons (100-3000 keV) and photons (142-1250 keV) were used for calculations. The concrete doped with nano-sized particles showed higher neutron removal cross section (7%) and photon attenuation coefficient (8%) relative to micro-particles. Application of nano-sized material in the composition of new concretes for dual protection against neutrons and photons are recommended. For further studies, the calculation of attenuation coefficients of these nano-concretes against higher energies of neutrons and photons and different particles are suggested. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Catalytic graphitization behavior of phenolic resins by addition of in situ formed nano-Fe particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rastegar, H.; Bavand-vandchali, M.; Nemati, A.; Golestani-Fard, F.

    2018-07-01

    This work presents the catalytic graphitization process of phenolic resins (PR's) by addition of in situ nano-Fe particles as catalyst. Pyrolysis treatments of prepared compositions including various contents of nano-Fe particles were carried out at 600-1200 °C for 3 h under reducing atmosphere and graphitization process were evaluated by different techniques such as X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) and Raman spectroscopy that mainly performed to identify the phase and microstructural analysis, oxidation resistance and extend of graphitized carbon formation. Results indicate that, in situ graphitic carbon development were already observed after firing the samples at 800 °C for 3 h under reducing atmosphere, increasing temperature and amount of nano-Fe led to a more effective graphitization level. In addition, the different nano crystalline carbon shapes such as onion and bamboo like and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were in situ identified during graphitization process of nano-Fe containing samples. It was suggested that formation of these different nano carbon structures related to nano-Fe catalyst behavior and the carbon shell growth.

  3. Beneficial effects of polyethylene packages containing micrometer-sized silver particles on the quality and shelf life of dried barberry (Berberis vulgaris).

    PubMed

    Motlagh, N Valipoor; Mosavian, M T Hamed; Mortazavi, S A; Tamizi, A

    2012-01-01

    In this research, the effects of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packages containing micrometer-sized silver particles (LDPE-Ag) on microbial and sensory factors of dried barberry were investigated in comparison with the pure LDPE packages. LDPE-Ag packages with 1% and 2% concentrations of silver particles statistically caused a decrease in the microbial growth of barberry, especially in the case of mold and total bacteria count, compared with the pure LDPE packages. The taste, aroma, appearance, and total acceptance were evaluated by trained panelists using the 9-point hedonic scale. This test showed improvement of all these factors in the samples related to packages containing 1% and 2% concentrations of silver particles in comparison with other samples. Low-density polyethylene package containing micrometer-sized silver particles had beneficial effects on the sensory and microbial quality of barberry when compared with normal packing material. © 2011 Institute of Food Technologists®

  4. Fabrication and characterization of flaky core-shell particles by magnetron sputtering silver onto diatomite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Deyuan; Cai, Jun

    2016-02-01

    Diatomite has delicate porous structures and various shapes, making them ideal templates for microscopic core-shell particles fabrication. In this study, a new process of magnetron sputtering assisted with photoresist positioning was proposed to fabricate lightweight silver coated porous diatomite with superior coating quality and performance. The diatomite has been treated with different sputtering time to investigate the silver film growing process on the surface. The morphologies, constituents, phase structures and surface roughness of the silver coated diatomite were analyzed with SEM, EDS, XRD and AFM respectively. The results showed that the optimized magnetron sputtering time was 8-16 min, under which the diatomite templates were successfully coated with uniform silver film, which exhibits face centered cubic (fcc) structure, and the initial porous structures were kept. Moreover, this silver coating has lower surface roughness (RMS 4.513 ± 0.2 nm) than that obtained by electroless plating (RMS 15.692 ± 0.5 nm). And the infrared emissivity of coatings made with magnetron sputtering and electroless plating silver coated diatomite can reach to the lowest value of 0.528 and 0.716 respectively.

  5. Nano-scale characterization of nano-hydroxyapatite incorporated chitosan particles for bone repair.

    PubMed

    Gaihre, Bipin; Uswatta, Suren; Jayasuriya, Ambalangodage C

    2018-05-01

    In this study, injectable porous spherical particles were fabricated using chitosan (CS) biopolymer, sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP), and nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA). TPP was primarily used as an ionic crosslinker to crosslink 2% (w/v) CS droplets. 2% (w/v) nHA was used to prepare nHA incorporated particles. The surface morphological properties and nanomechanical properties such as topography, deformation, adhesion, and dissipation of CS particles with and without nHA were studied using contact mode and peakforce quantitative nanomechanical property mapping mode in atomic force microscopy. The nHA spots have higher density than CS which leads to higher forces acting on the probe tip and higher energy dissipation to lift the tip from nHA areas. The cumulative release data showed that about 87% of total BMP-2 encapsulated within the particles was released by third week of experiment period. Degradation study was conducted to understand how the particles degradation occurs in the presence of phosphate buffered saline with continues shaking in an incubator at 37° C. In addition, BMP-2 release from the 2% nHA/CS particles was studied over a three weeks period and found that BMP-2 release was governed by the simple diffusion rather than the degradation of particles. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. In situ synthesis of silver-nanoparticles/bacterial cellulose composites for slow-released antimicrobial wound dressing.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jian; Zheng, Yudong; Song, Wenhui; Luan, Jiabin; Wen, Xiaoxiao; Wu, Zhigu; Chen, Xiaohua; Wang, Qi; Guo, Shaolin

    2014-02-15

    Bacterial cellulose has attracted increasing attention as a novel wound dressing material, but it has no antimicrobial activity, which is one of critical skin-barrier functions in wound healing. To overcome such deficiency, we developed a novel method to synthesize and impregnate silver nanoparticles on to bacterial cellulose nanofibres (AgNP-BC). Uniform spherical silver nano-particles (10-30 nm) were generated and self-assembled on the surface of BC nano-fibers, forming a stable and evenly distributed Ag nanoparticles coated BC nanofiber. Such hybrid nanostructure prevented Ag nanoparticles from dropping off BC network and thus minimized the toxicity of nanoparticles. Regardless the slow Ag(+) release, AgNP-BC still exhibited significant antibacterial activities with more than 99% reductions in Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, AgNP-BC allowed attachment and growth of epidermal cells with no cytotoxicity emerged. The results demonstrated that AgNP-BC could reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Selective laser processing of ink-jet printed nano-scaled tin-clad copper particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yung, K. C.; Plura, T. S.

    2010-11-01

    The deposition of tin-clad nano-size copper particles was carried out by means of ink-jet printing. Curing the particles on Polyimide (PI) turned them into soldered structures using an Nd-YAG laser. Area coverage of 55% was achieved for a single-layer print. Subsequent laser sintering increased this value to 95%. A Butanol-based copper ink and an aqueous tin (Sn)-clad Copper (Cu) ink were produced and were ink-jetted in this work. These nano-metallic inks showed excellent suspension stability with particle weight concentrations as high as 5%. The ink components were examined by measuring the particle size distribution in a dispersed condition, and the melting temperature. A piezo ink-jet print head was used to deposit the inks onto a moveable substrate. The thermal effect of the laser irradiation allowed approaching and connecting adjacent particles by melting the particle’s tin coating. The results were examined with regard to structure and soldering properties using EDX, SEM and optical microscopy.

  8. Advances and patents about grinding equipments with nano-particle jet minimum quantity lubrication.

    PubMed

    Jia, Dongzhou; Li, Changhe; Wang, Sheng; Zhang, Qiang; Hou, Yali

    2014-01-01

    In recent years, a large number of patents have been devoted to developing minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) grinding techniques that can significantly improve both environmentally conscious and energy saving and costeffective sustainable grinding fluid alternatives. Among them, one patent is about a controllable nano-fluids jet MQL grinding system based on electrostatic atomization. Using the principle of electrostatics, it can achieve the control of droplet transfer by charging the sprayed droplets. This system can improve the uniformity of the droplet spectrum, liquid deposition efficiency and effective utilization of liquid. It can also effectively control the movement patterns of the droplets, thereby reducing the pollution of the environment and providing better health protection for workers. Although researchers accomplished profound and systematic studies on MQL, especially on nano-particles jet MQL. It can solve the shortage of MQL in cooling performance, greatly improve the working environment, save energy and reduce costs to achieve a low-carbon manufacturing. The unique lubricating performance and tribological property of solid nano-particles form nano-particle shearing films at the grinding wheel/workpiece interface, which can enhance the lubricating performance of MQL grinding. Existing studies on MQL grinding equipments, however, cannot meet the needs of the technological development. Therefore, our research provided a general introduction of the latest patients and research progress of nanoparticles jet MQL grinding equipments presented by the research team from Qingdao Technological University.

  9. Tissue distribution and acute toxicity of silver after single intravenous administration in mice: nano-specific and size-dependent effects.

    PubMed

    Recordati, Camilla; De Maglie, Marcella; Bianchessi, Silvia; Argentiere, Simona; Cella, Claudia; Mattiello, Silvana; Cubadda, Francesco; Aureli, Federica; D'Amato, Marilena; Raggi, Andrea; Lenardi, Cristina; Milani, Paolo; Scanziani, Eugenio

    2016-02-29

    Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are an important class of nanomaterials used as antimicrobial agents for a wide range of medical and industrial applications. However toxicity of AgNPs and impact of their physicochemical characteristics in in vivo models still need to be comprehensively characterized. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of size and coating on tissue distribution and toxicity of AgNPs after intravenous administration in mice, and compare the results with those obtained after silver acetate administration. Male CD-1(ICR) mice were intravenously injected with AgNPs of different sizes (10 nm, 40 nm, 100 nm), citrate-or polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated, at a single dose of 10 mg/kg bw. An equivalent dose of silver ions was administered as silver acetate. Mice were euthanized 24 h after the treatment, and silver quantification by ICP-MS and histopathology were performed on spleen, liver, lungs, kidneys, brain, and blood. For all particle sizes, regardless of their coating, the highest silver concentrations were found in the spleen and liver, followed by lung, kidney, and brain. Silver concentrations were significantly higher in the spleen, lung, kidney, brain, and blood of mice treated with 10 nm AgNPs than those treated with larger particles. Relevant toxic effects (midzonal hepatocellular necrosis, gall bladder hemorrhage) were found in mice treated with 10 nm AgNPs, while in mice treated with 40 nm and 100 nm AgNPs lesions were milder or negligible, respectively. In mice treated with silver acetate, silver concentrations were significantly lower in the spleen and lung, and higher in the kidney than in mice treated with 10 nm AgNPs, and a different target organ of toxicity was identified (kidney). Administration of the smallest (10 nm) nanoparticles resulted in enhanced silver tissue distribution and overt hepatobiliary toxicity compared to larger ones (40 and 100 nm), while coating had no relevant impact. Distinct patterns of tissue

  10. Surface colonized silver nano particles over chitosan poly-electrolyte micro-spheres and their multi-functional behavior

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prakash, B.; Asha, S.; Nimrodh Ananth, A.; Vanithakumari, G.; Okram, G. S.; Jose, Sujin P.; Jothi Rajan, M. A.

    2018-02-01

    Chitosan/tripolyphosphate polyelectrolyte (TPP) microspheres, decorated and surface functionalized with silver nanoparticles (NPs) of average diameter of 15 nm, were synthesized following a simple two-step procedure. These Ag NP-functionalized polyelectrolyte microspheres (Ag-CSPMs) are found to be biocompatible and enhancing the reactive oxygen species in curcumin with excellent anti-bacterial activity for selected Gram-positive and negative bacterial strains, making them much attractive relative to bare surface counterparts; the well-stabilized silver NPs do not form any agglomerations on the surface of the chitosan microspheres. They also show excellent cytotoxic behavior towards MCF7 cell lines, showing a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 32 μg ml-1. Therefore, Ag-CSPMs exhibit multi-functional ability having potential towards theranostics applications.

  11. Internal flow patterns on heat transfer characteristics of a closed-loop oscillating heat-pipe with check valves using ethanol and a silver nano-ethanol mixture

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bhuwakietkumjohn, N.; Rittidech, S.

    The aim of this research was to investigate the internal flow patterns and heat transfer characteristics of a closed-loop oscillating heat-pipe with check valves (CLOHP/CV). The ratio of number of check valves to meandering turns was 0.2. Ethanol and a silver nano-ethanol mixture were used as working fluids with a filling ratio of 50% by total volume of tube. The CLOHP/CV was made of a glass tube with an inside diameter of 2.4 mm. The evaporator section was 50 mm and 100 mm in length and there were 10 meandering turns. An inclination angle of 90 from horizontal axis wasmore » established. The evaporator section was heated by an electric heater and the condenser section was cooled by distilled water. Temperature at the evaporator section was controlled at 85 C, 105 C and 125 C. The inlet and outlet temperatures were measured. A digital camera and video camera were used to observe the flow patterns at the evaporator. The silver nano-ethanol mixture gave higher heat flux than ethanol. When the temperature at the evaporator section was increased from 85 C to 105 C and 125 C. It was found that, the flow patterns occurred as annular flow + slug flow, slug flow + bubble flow and dispersed bubble flow + bubble flow respectively. The main regime of each flow pattern can be determined from the flow pattern map ethanol and a silver nano-ethanol mixture. Each of the two working fluids gave corresponding flow patterns. (author)« less

  12. The Use of NanoTrap Particles as a Sample Enrichment Method to Enhance the Detection of Rift Valley Fever Virus

    PubMed Central

    Shafagati, Nazly; Narayanan, Aarthi; Baer, Alan; Fite, Katherine; Pinkham, Chelsea; Bailey, Charles; Kashanchi, Fatah; Lepene, Benjamin; Kehn-Hall, Kylene

    2013-01-01

    Background Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) is a zoonotic virus that is not only an emerging pathogen but is also considered a biodefense pathogen due to the threat it may cause to public health and national security. The current state of diagnosis has led to misdiagnosis early on in infection. Here we describe the use of a novel sample preparation technology, NanoTrap particles, to enhance the detection of RVFV. Previous studies demonstrated that NanoTrap particles lead to both 100 percent capture of protein analytes as well as an improvement of more than 100-fold in sensitivity compared to existing methods. Here we extend these findings by demonstrating the capture and enrichment of viruses. Results Screening of NanoTrap particles indicated that one particle, NT53, was the most efficient at RVFV capture as demonstrated by both qRT-PCR and plaque assays. Importantly, NT53 capture of RVFV resulted in greater than 100-fold enrichment from low viral titers when other diagnostics assays may produce false negatives. NT53 was also capable of capturing and enhancing RVFV detection from serum samples. RVFV that was inactivated through either detergent or heat treatment was still found bound to NT53, indicating the ability to use NanoTrap particles for viral capture prior to transport to a BSL-2 environment. Furthermore, both NP-40-lysed virus and purified RVFV RNA were bound by NT53. Importantly, NT53 protected viral RNA from RNase A degradation, which was not observed with other commercially available beads. Incubation of RVFV samples with NT53 also resulted in increased viral stability as demonstrated through preservation of infectivity at elevated temperatures. Finally, NanoTrap particles were capable of capturing VEEV and HIV, demonstrating the broad applicability of NanoTrap particles for viral diagnostics. Conclusion This study demonstrates NanoTrap particles are capable of capturing, enriching, and protecting RVFV virions. Furthermore, the use of NanoTrap particles

  13. Characterization by spectroscopic Ellipsometry, the physical properties of silver nanoparticles.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coanga, Jean-Maurice

    2013-04-01

    Physicists are able to change their minds through their experiments. I think it is time to go kick the curse and go further in research if we want a human future. I work in the Nano-Optics and Plasmonics research. I defined with ellipsomètrie the structure of new type of Nano particles of silver. It's same be act quickly to replace the old dirty leaded electronic-connexion chip and by the other hand to find a new way for the heath care of cancer disease by nanoparticles the next killers of bad cells. Silver nanoparticle layers are obtained by Spark Plasma Sintering are investigated as an alternative to lead alloy based material for solder joint in power mechatronics modules. These layers are characterized by mean of conventional techniques that is the dilatometry technique, the resistivity measurement through the van der Pauw method, and the flash laser technique. Furthermore, the nanoparticles of silver layer are deeply studied by UV-Visible spectroscopic ellipsometry. Spectroscopic angles parameters are determined in function of temperature and dielectric constants are deduced and analyzed through an optical model which takes into account a Drude and a Lorentz component within the Bruggeman effective medium approximation (EMA). The relaxation times and the electrical conductivity are plot in function of temperature. The obtained electrical conductivity give significant result in good agreement to those reported by four points electrical measurement method.

  14. Synthesis and characterization of CaCO3 (calcite) nano particles from cockle shells (Anadara granosa Linn) by precipitation method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Widyastuti, Sri; Intan Ayu Kusuma, P.

    2017-06-01

    Calcium supplements can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, but they are not automatically absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Nanotechnology is presumed to have a capacity in resolving this problem. The preparation and characterization of calcium carbonate nano particle to improve the solubility was performed. Calcium carbonate nano particles were synthesized using precipitation method from cockle shells (Anadara granosa Linn). Samples of the cockle shells were dried in an oven at temperature of 50°C for 7 (seven) days and subsequently they were crushed and blended into fine powder that was sieved through 125-μm sieve. The synthesis of calcium carbonate nanocrystals was done by extracting using hydro chloride acid and various concentrations of sodium hydroxide were used to precipitate the calcium carbonate nano particles. The size of the nano particles was determined by SEM, XRD data, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The results of XRD indicated that the overall crystalline structure and phase purity of the typical calcite phase CaCO3 particles were approximately 300 nm in size. The method to find potential applications in industry to yield the large scale synthesis of aragonite nano particles by a low cost but abundant natural resource such as cockle shells is required.

  15. High saturation magnetization of γ-Fe2O3 nano-particles by a facile one-step synthesis approach

    PubMed Central

    Cao, Derang; Li, Hao; Pan, Lining; Li, Jianan; Wang, Xicheng; Jing, Panpan; Cheng, Xiaohong; Wang, Wenjie; Wang, Jianbo; Liu, Qingfang

    2016-01-01

    We have demonstrated the synthesis of γ-Fe2O3 nano-particles through a facile and novel calcination process in the air. There is no pH regulation, gas atmosphere, additive, centrifugation or other complicated procedures during the preparing process. A detailed formation process of the nano-particles is proposed, and DMF as a polar solvent may slower the reaction process of calcination. The structures, morphologies, and magnetic properties of γ-Fe2O3 nano-particles were investigated systematically, and the pure γ-Fe2O3 nano-particles obtained at 200 °C display uniform morphology good magnetic property. The saturation magnetization of obtained pure γ-Fe2O3 is about 74 emu/g, which is comparable with bulk material (76 emu/g) and larger than other results. In addition, the photocatalytic activity for degradation of methylene blue is also studied, which shows proper photocatalytic activity. PMID:27581732

  16. Biomimetic synthesis of silver nanoparticles by Citrus limon (lemon) aqueous extract and theoretical prediction of particle size.

    PubMed

    Prathna, T C; Chandrasekaran, N; Raichur, Ashok M; Mukherjee, Amitava

    2011-01-01

    In the present study, silver nanoparticles were rapidly synthesized at room temperature by treating silver ions with the Citrus limon (lemon) extract. The effect of various process parameters like the reductant concentration, mixing ratio of the reactants and the concentration of silver nitrate were studied in detail. In the standardized process, 10(-2)M silver nitrate solution was interacted for 4h with lemon juice (2% citric acid concentration and 0.5% ascorbic acid concentration) in the ratio of 1:4 (vol:vol). The formation of silver nanoparticles was confirmed by Surface Plasmon Resonance as determined by UV-Visible spectra in the range of 400-500 nm. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the distinctive facets (111, 200, 220, 222 and 311 planes) of silver nanoparticles. We found that citric acid was the principal reducing agent for the nanosynthesis process. FT-IR spectral studies demonstrated citric acid as the probable stabilizing agent. Silver nanoparticles below 50 nm with spherical and spheroidal shape were observed from transmission electron microscopy. The correlation between absorption maxima and particle sizes were derived for different UV-Visible absorption maxima (corresponding to different citric acid concentrations) employing "MiePlot v. 3.4". The theoretical particle size corresponding to 2% citric acid concentration was compared to those obtained by various experimental techniques like X-ray diffraction analysis, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Atomically precise arrays of fluorescent silver clusters: a modular approach for metal cluster photonics on DNA nanostructures.

    PubMed

    Copp, Stacy M; Schultz, Danielle E; Swasey, Steven; Gwinn, Elisabeth G

    2015-03-24

    The remarkable precision that DNA scaffolds provide for arraying nanoscale optical elements enables optical phenomena that arise from interactions of metal nanoparticles, dye molecules, and quantum dots placed at nanoscale separations. However, control of ensemble optical properties has been limited by the difficulty of achieving uniform particle sizes and shapes. Ligand-stabilized metal clusters offer a route to atomically precise arrays that combine desirable attributes of both metals and molecules. Exploiting the unique advantages of the cluster regime requires techniques to realize controlled nanoscale placement of select cluster structures. Here we show that atomically monodisperse arrays of fluorescent, DNA-stabilized silver clusters can be realized on a prototypical scaffold, a DNA nanotube, with attachment sites separated by <10 nm. Cluster attachment is mediated by designed DNA linkers that enable isolation of specific clusters prior to assembly on nanotubes and preserve cluster structure and spectral purity after assembly. The modularity of this approach generalizes to silver clusters of diverse sizes and DNA scaffolds of many types. Thus, these silver cluster nano-optical elements, which themselves have colors selected by their particular DNA templating oligomer, bring unique dimensions of control and flexibility to the rapidly expanding field of nano-optics.

  18. PLGA nano/micro particles encapsulated with pertussis toxoid (PTd) enhances Th1/Th17 immune response in a murine model.

    PubMed

    Li, Pan; Asokanathan, Catpagavalli; Liu, Fang; Khaing, Kyi Kyi; Kmiec, Dorota; Wei, Xiaoqing; Song, Bing; Xing, Dorothy; Kong, Deling

    2016-11-20

    Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) based nano/micro particles were investigated as a potential vaccine platform for pertussis antigen. Presentation of pertussis toxoid as nano/micro particles (NP/MP) gave similar antigen-specific IgG responses in mice compared to soluble antigen. Notably, in cell line based assays, it was found that PLGA based nano/micro particles enhanced the phagocytosis of fluorescent antigen-nano/micro particles by J774.2 murine monocyte/macrophage cells compared to soluble antigen. More importantly, when mice were immunised with the antigen-nano/micro particles they significantly increased antigen-specific Th1 cytokines INF-γ and IL-17 secretion in splenocytes after in vitro re-stimulation with heat killed Bordetalla pertussis, indicating the induction of a Th1/Th17 response. Also, presentation of pertussis antigen in a NP/MP formulation is able to provide protection against respiratory infection in a murine model. Thus, the NP/MP formulation may provide an alternative to conventional acellular vaccines to achieve a more balanced Th1/Th2 immune response. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Using DNA-labelled nano- and microparticles to track particle transport in the environment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McNew, Coy; Wang, Chaozi; Dahlke, Helen; Lyon, Steve; Walter, Todd

    2017-04-01

    By utilizing bio-molecular nanotechnology developed for nano-medicines and drug delivery, we are able to produce DNA-labelled nano- and microparticle tracers for use in a myriad of environmental systems. The use of custom sequenced DNA allows for the fabrication of an enormous number of uniquely labelled tracers with identical transport properties (approximately 1.61 x 1060 unique sequences), each independently quantifiable, that can be applied simultaneously in any hydrologic system. By controlling the fabrication procedure to produce particles of custom size and charge, we are able to tag each size-charge combination uniquely in order to directly probe the effect of these variables on the transport properties of the particles. Here we present our methods for fabrication, extraction, and analysis of the DNA nano- and microparticle tracers, along with results from several successful applications of the tracers, including transport and retention analysis at the lab, continuum, and field scales. To date, our DNA-labelled nano- and microparticle tracers have proved useful in surface and subsurface water applications, soil retention, and even subglacial flow pathways. The range of potential applications continue to prove nearly limitless.

  20. Green synthesis of tea Ag nanocomposite hydrogels via mint leaf extraction for effective antibacterial activity.

    PubMed

    Jayaramudu, Tippabattini; Varaprasad, Kokkarachedu; Raghavendra, Gownolla Malegowd; Sadiku, E R; Mohana Raju, Konduru; Amalraj, John

    2017-10-01

    In this report, we investigated the swelling behavior and antibacterial property of nanosilver composite hydrogels made from tea with polyacrylamide via a free-radical polymerization and green process technique. This is probably for the first time; tea-based nano silver composite hydrogels were developed. The composite hydrogels comprise embedded nano silver particles in the tea hydrogel matrix via a green process with mint leaf extract. The size of the nano silver particles in the hydrogel matrix was found to be < 10 nm. The nano silver composite hydrogels formed and their blank hydrogels from the mint leaf were characterized by using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction studies. The nano silver composite hydrogels developed exhibit eminent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This clearly indicates that the nano silver composite hydrogels are potential candidates for antimicrobial applications.

  1. Synthesis and characterization of CdO nano particles by the sol-gel method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vadgama, V. S.; Vyas, R. P.; Jogiya, B. V.; Joshi, M. J.

    2017-05-01

    Cadmium Oxide (CdO) is an inorganic compound and one of the main precursors to other cadmium compounds. It finds applications in cadmium plating, storage batteries, in transparent conducting film, etc. Here, an attempt is made to synthesize CdO nano particles by sol-gel technique. The gel was prepared using cadmium nitrate tetra hydrate (Cd(NO3)2.4H2O) and aqueous ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) as a precursor. The synthesized powder is further characterized by techniques like Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Powder XRD analysis suggested the nano-crystalline nature of the sample with the cubic crystal system. Nano scaled particles of spherical morphology with the size ranging from 50-100 nm are observed from TEM images. While, FT-IR study is used to confirm the presence of different functional groups. Thermo-gravimetric analysis suggests the highly thermally stable nature of the samples. The results are discussed.

  2. Effect of TiC nano-particles on the mechanical properties of an Al-5Cu alloy after various heat treatments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Qingquan; Zhang, Wei; Tian, Weisi; Zhao, Qinglong

    2017-12-01

    In this paper, the effects of TiC nano-particles on the mechanical properties of Al-5Cu alloy were investigated. Adding TiC nano-particles can effectively refine grain size and secondary dendritic arm. The ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and elongation of the Al-5Cu alloy in each of the three states (i.e. as-cast, solid-solution state and T6 state) were also improved by adding TiC nano-particles. Moreover, the elastic-plastic plane-strain fracture toughness (K J) and work of fracture ( wof) of Al-5Cu containing TiC were significantly higher than those of Al-5Cu without TiC after aging for 10 h. The addition of TiC nano-particles also led to finer and denser ‧ precipitates.

  3. Determination of elemental distribution in green micro-algae using synchrotron radiation nano X-ray fluorescence (SR-nXRF) and electron microscopy techniques--subcellular localization and quantitative imaging of silver and cobalt uptake by Coccomyxa actinabiotis.

    PubMed

    Leonardo, T; Farhi, E; Boisson, A-M; Vial, J; Cloetens, P; Bohic, S; Rivasseau, C

    2014-02-01

    The newly discovered unicellular micro-alga Coccomyxa actinabiotis proves to be highly radio-tolerant and strongly concentrates radionuclides, as well as large amounts of toxic metals. This study helps in the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the accumulation and detoxification of silver and cobalt. Elemental distribution inside Coccomyxa actinabiotis cells was determined using synchrotron nano X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy at the ID22 nano fluorescence imaging beamline of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The high resolution and high sensitivity of this technique enabled the assessment of elemental associations and exclusions in subcellular micro-algae compartments. A quantitative treatment of the scans was implemented to yield absolute concentrations of each endogenous and exogenous element with a spatial resolution of 100 nm and compared to the macroscopic content in cobalt and silver determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The nano X-ray fluorescence imaging was complemented by transmission electron microscopy coupled to X-ray microanalysis (TEM-EDS), yielding differential silver distribution in the cell wall, cytosol, nucleus, chloroplast and mitochondria with unique resolution. The analysis of endogenous elements in control cells revealed that iron had a unique distribution; zinc, potassium, manganese, molybdenum, and phosphate had their maxima co-localized in the same area; and sulfur, copper and chlorine were almost homogeneously distributed among the whole cell. The subcellular distribution and quantification of cobalt and silver in micro-alga, assessed after controlled exposure to various concentrations, revealed that exogenous metals were mainly sequestered inside the cell rather than on mucilage or the cell wall, with preferential compartmentalization. Cobalt was homogeneously distributed outside of the chloroplast. Silver was localized in the cytosol at low concentration and in the whole cell excluding the

  4. Study on the Particle Size Distribution Nano-Particles of Mining Minerals on Whiteness of Triaxial Body

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mathur, Ravi; Soni, Aditi

    White wares produced worldwide represent the foundation of much of the ceramic industry; Porcelain bodies fabricated from triaxial mixtures of clay, quartz and feldspar with different size and amounts of nano particles were investigated. Although the purity of raw materials has a strong effect on the colour of the fired bodies, the particle size of raw materials also effect the whiteness The raw material mining minerals china Clay, Feldspar, quarts were prepared of various sized nano particles contains 10.60 -20.22%, 56.84- 70.80 % and 34.87-50.76 % of 100nm respectively. The fired bodies of raw mining minerals and triaxial bodies were subjected to colour measurement. The differences in whiteness were compared and discussed. The studies so far carried out is upto 400 mesh size while the present study has included up to 100nm particle size. A statistical correlation between whiteness of feldspar and triaxial body was also carried out. The correlation between china clay and triaxial body are 0.53, 0.57 and 0.66 for china clay similarly correlation for feldspar is 0.49, 0.73 and 0.83 for triaxial body it are 0.97, 0.84 and 0.75 for A1, A2 and A3 samples. Correlation between china clay and feldspar with triaxial body are 0.79 and 0.92 respectively.

  5. Suitability of different silver enhancement methods applied to 1 nm colloidal gold particles: an immunoelectron microscopic study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stierhof, Y.D.; Humbel, B.M.; Schwarz, H.

    1991-03-01

    In order to exploit the recently introduced 1 nm gold colloids in routine electron microscopic labeling experiments, an efficient enhancement step for a better visualization of this small marker is a prerequisite. Efficiency and reproducibility of enhancement as well as growth homogeneity of gold particles were evaluated for three different silver intensifying solutions: silver lactate/hydroquinone/gum arabic, and the commercially available IntenSE M silver enhancement kit. The best results were obtained by using the silver lactate/hydroquinone/gum arabic mixture. The quality of enhancement of the IntenSE M kit was considerably increased by the addition of the protective colloid gum arabic.

  6. The nano-particle dispersion strengthening of V-4Cr-4Ti alloys for high temperature application in fusion reactors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Pengfei; Chen, Jiming; Xu, Zengyu; Duan, Xuru

    2013-10-01

    V-4Cr-4Ti was identified as an attractive structural material for Li blanket in fusion reactors. However, both high temperature and irradiation induced degradation are great challenges for this material. It was thought that the nano-particles with high thermal stability can efficiently strengthen the alloy at elevated temperatures, and accommodate the irradiation induced defects at the boundaries. This study is a starting work aiming at improving the creep resistance and reducing the irradiation induced degradation for V-4Cr-4Ti alloy. Currently, we focus on the preparation of some comparative nano-particle dispersion strengthened V-4Cr-4Ti alloys. A mechanical alloying (MA) route is used to fabricate yttrium and carbides added V-4Cr-4Ti alloys. Nano-scale yttria, carbides and other possible particles have a combined dispersion-strengthening effect on the matrices of these MA-fabricated V-4Cr-4Ti alloys. High-temperature annealing is carried out to stabilize the optimized nano-particles. Mechanical properties are tested. Microstructures of the MA-fabricated V-4Cr-4Ti alloys with yttrium and carbide additions are characterized. Based on these results, the thermal stability of different nano-particle agents are classified. ITER related China domestic project 2011GB108007.

  7. Photocatalytic, antimicrobial activities of biogenic silver nanoparticles and electrochemical degradation of water soluble dyes at glassy carbon/silver modified past electrode using buffer solution.

    PubMed

    Khan, Zia Ul Haq; Khan, Amjad; Shah, Afzal; Chen, Yongmei; Wan, Pingyu; Khan, Arif Ullah; Tahir, Kamran; Muhamma, Nawshad; Khan, Faheem Ullah; Shah, Hidayat Ullah

    2016-03-01

    In the present research work a novel, nontoxic and ecofriendly procedure was developed for the green synthesis of silver nano particle (AgNPs) using Caruluma edulis (C. edulis) extract act as reductant as well as stabilizer agents. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV/Vis spectroscopy. The small and spherical sizes of AgNPs were conformed from high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis and were found in the range of 2-10nm, which were highly dispersion without any aggregation. The crystalline structure of AgNPs was conformed from X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. For the elemental composition EDX was used and FTIR helped to determine the type of organic compounds in the extract. The potential electrochemical property of modified silver electrode was also studied. The AgNPs showed prominent antibacterial motion with MIC values of 125 μg/mL against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus while 250 μg/mL against Escherichia coli. High cell constituents' release was exhibited by B. subtilis with 2 × MIC value of silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles also showed significant DPPH free radical scavenging activity. This research would have an important implication for the synthesis of more efficient antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. The AgNP modified electrode (GC/AgNPs) exhibited an excellent electro-catalytic activity toward the redox reaction of phenolic compounds. The AgNPs were evaluated for electrochemical degradation of bromothymol blue (BTB) dyes which showed a significant activity. From the strong reductive properties it is obvious that AgNPs can be used in water sanitization and converting some organic perilous in to non-hazardous materials. The AgNPs showed potential applications in the field of electro chemistry, sensor, catalyst, nano-devices and medical. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Isolation and identification of burn wound superbugs by molecular technique and their susceptibility to silver nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mala, R.; Celsia, A. S. Ruby

    2018-02-01

    Burn wound is a global problem affecting millions of people. It is the major cause of mortality and morbidity. This study was aimed to isolate and identify the wound isolates by 16S rRNA and to assess their susceptibility to antibiotics and silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using aqueous extract of A.indica. The silver nanoparticles were characterized by FESEM, XRD, FTIR and DSC. Antibacterial susceptibility of the isolates was assessed by well diffusion method. The wound isolates were identified as S.aureus and E.coli. Both isolates were resistant to β lactum antibiotics, aminoglycoside, quinolones and macrolides. The inhibition zone exhibited by all antibiotics against both organisms was less than 5 mm. The size of silver nanoparticles were recorded as 55 nm. XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles. TGA and DSC of silver nanoparticles showed the loss of weight and the melting point of silver nanoparticles was recorded at 871.3°C. Silver nano particles inhibited S.aureus and E.coli with an inhibition zone of 27 mm and 32 mm respectively. Therefore the study demonstrated that only silver containing dressings can be used in burn wounds infected by multi drug resistant super bugs.

  9. Effects of nano-SiO{sub 2} particles on surface tracking characteristics of silicone rubber composites

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liu, Yong, E-mail: tjuliuyong@tju.edu.cn; Li, Zhonglei; Du, Boxue

    Compared with neat silicone rubber composites (SiRCs), SiRCs filled with nano-sized SiO{sub 2} particles at weight ratios from 0.1 to 1.0 wt. % exhibit a higher surface flashover voltage and a greater resistance to surface tracking. Scanning electron microscopy images of tracking morphologies indicate that the SiO{sub 2} particles are situated in close proximity to the polymeric chains and act as bridges to stabilize the chains and maintain the structure of the composite. Higher concentrations of nano-sized SiO{sub 2} particles, however, (above 0.3 wt. %) produce defects in the molecular network which lead to reductions in both the surface flashover voltage and the resistancemore » to surface tracking, although these reduced values are still superior to those of neat SiRCs. Therefore, SiRCs filled with nano-sized SiO{sub 2} particles, especially at an optimal weight ratio (0.1 to 0.3 wt. %), may have significant potential applications as outdoor insulators for power systems.« less

  10. Characterization of pure and composite resorcinol formaldehyde aerogels doped with silver

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Attia, S. M.; Abdelfatah, M. S.; Mossad, M. M.

    2017-07-01

    A series of Resorcinol Formaldehyde (RF) aerogels composites with nanoparticles of sliver were prepared by the sol-gel method at different concentrations doped silver. FTIR spectra of pure and composite RF aerogels show six absorption bands attributed to -OH groups bonded to the benzene ring, stretching of -CH2- bonds and aromatic ring stretching. FTIR results ensured that sliver particles do not interact with aerogel network. UV-visible spectrum of pure silver show an absorbance peak at 420 nm attributed to the surface plasmon excitation of sliver Nano spheres. UV-visible spectral of pure and composite RF aerogels shows a steep decrease of absorption with wavelength after 500 nm, making sample’s color reddish brown. TEM and SEM images of pure and composite RF aerogels revealed that the textural arrangement of RF aerogels can be described as densely packed small nodules.

  11. Magnetic Nano- and Micro- Particles in Living Cells: Kinetics and Fluctuations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pease, C.; Chiang, N.; Pierce, C.; Muthusamy, N.; Sooryakumar, R.

    2015-03-01

    Functional nano and micro materials have recently been used not only as diagnostic tools for extracellular studies but also as intracellular drug delivery vehicles and as internal probes of the cell. To realize proper cellular applications, it is important not only to achieve efficient delivery of these materials to targeted cells, but also to control their movement and activity within the confines of the cell. In this presentation, superparamagnetic nano and micro particles are utilized as probes, with their responses to weak external magnetic fields enabling them to be maneuvered within a cell. In order to generate the required local magnetic fields needed for manipulation, the fields emanating from microscopic domain walls stabilized on patterned surface profiles are used in conjunction with weak external magnetic fields to create mobile traps that can localize and transport the internalized particle. Preliminary findings on creating the mobile traps suitable for applications to probe the interior of cells, and the responses, both Brownian fluctuations and directed motion, of particles ranging in size from 200 nm to 1 micron within HS-5 cells will be presented. Future applications to probe cellular behavior within the framework of emerging biomaterials will be discussed.

  12. Study of linear optical parameters of sodium sulphide nano-particles added ADP crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kochuparampil, A. P.; Joshi, J. H.; Dixit, K. P.; Jethva, H. O.; Joshi, M. J.

    2017-05-01

    Ammonium Dihydrogen Phosphate (ADP) is one of the nonlinear optical crystals. It is having various applications like optical mixing, electro-optical modulator, harmonic generators, etc. Chalcogenide compounds are poorly soluble in water and difficult to add in the water soluble ADP crystals. The solubility of Chalcogenide compounds can be increased by synthesizing the nano-structured samples with suitable capping agent. In the present study sodium sulphide was added in to ADP to modify its linear optical parameters. Sodium sulphide nano particles were synthesized by co-precipitation technique using Ethylene diamine as capping agent followed by microwave irradiation. The powder XRD confirmed the nano-structured nature of sodium sulphide nano particles. The solubility of nanoparticles of sodium sulphide increased significantly in water compared to the bulk. Pure and Na2S added ADP crystals were grown by slow solvent evaporation method at room temperature. The presence of sodium in ADP was confirmed by AAS. The UV-Vis spectra were recorded for all crystals. Various optical parameters like, transmittance, energy band gap, extinction coefficient, refractive index, optical conductivity, etc. were evaluated. The electronic polarizibility of pure and doped crystals calculated from energy band gap. The effect of doping concentration was found on various parameters.

  13. Impact of nano and bulk ZrO2, TiO2 particles on soil nutrient contents and PGPR.

    PubMed

    Karunakaran, Gopalu; Suriyaprabha, Rangaraj; Manivasakan, Palanisamy; Yuvakkumar, Rathinam; Rajendran, Venkatachalam; Kannan, Narayanasamy

    2013-01-01

    Currently, nanometal oxides are used extensively in different industries such as medicine, cosmetics and food. The increased consumption of nanoparticles (NPs) leads the necessity to understand the fate of the nanoparticles in the environment. The present study focused on the ecotoxicological behaviour of bulk and nano ZrO2 (Zirconia) and TiO2 (Titania) particles on PGPR (plant growth promoting rhizobacteria), soil and its nutrient contents. The microbial susceptibility study showed that nano TiO2 had 13 +/- 0.9 mm (B. megaterium), 15 +/- 0.2 mm (P. fluorescens), 16 +/- 0.2 mm (A. vinelandii) and 12 +/- 0.3 mm (B. brevis) zones of inhibition. However, nano and bulk ZrO2 particles were non-toxic to PGPR. In addition, it was found that toxicity varied depends on the medium of reaction. The soil study showed that nano TiO2 was found to be highly toxic, whereas bulk TiO2 was less toxic towards soil bacterial populations at 1000 mg L(-1). In contrast, nano and bulk ZrO2 were found to be inert at 1000 mg L(-1). The observed zeta potential and hydrophobicity of TiO2 particles causes more toxic than ZrO2 in parallel with particle size. However, nano TiO2 decreases the microbial population as well as nutrient level of the soil but not zirconia. Our finding shows that the mechanism of toxicity depends on size, hydrophobic potential and zeta potential of the metal oxide particles. Thus, it is necessary to take safety measures during the disposal and use of such toxic nanoparticles in the soil to prevent their hazardous effects.

  14. Uniform nano-sized valsartan for dissolution and bioavailability enhancement: influence of particle size and crystalline state.

    PubMed

    Ma, Qiuping; Sun, Hongrui; Che, Erxi; Zheng, Xin; Jiang, Tongying; Sun, Changshan; Wang, Siling

    2013-01-30

    The central purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of drug particle size and crystalline state on valsartan (VAL) formulations in order to improve its dissolution and bioavailability. VAL microsuspension (mean size 22 μm) and nanosuspension (30-80nm) were prepared by high speed dispersing and anti-solvent precipitation method and converted into powders through spray drying. Differential scanning calorimetry studies indicated amorphization of VAL in the spray-dried valsartan nanosuspension (SD-VAL-Nano) but recrystallization occurred after 6 months storage at room temperature. The spray-dried valsartan microsuspension (SD-VAL-Micro) conserved the crystalline form. The VAL dissolution rate and extent were markedly enhanced with both SD-VAL-Micro and SD-VAL-Nano as compared to crude VAL crystals over the pH range of 1.2-6.8. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats demonstrated a 2.5-fold increase in oral bioavailability in the case of SD-VAL-Nano compared with the commercial product while the SD-VAL-Micro provided a much less desirable pharmacokinetic profile. In conclusion, reducing particle size to the nano-scale appears to be a worthwhile and promising approach to obtain VAL products with optimum bioavailability. In addition, the impact of crystalline state on the bioavailability of nano-sized VAL might be not as big as that of particle size. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Nano iron particles transport in fractured rocks: laboratory and field scale

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cohen, Meirav; Weisbrod, Noam

    2017-04-01

    Our study deals with the transport potential of nano iron particles (NIPs) in fractured media. Two different systemswere used to investigate transport on two scales: (1 )a laboratory flow system of a naturally discrete fractured chalk core, 0.43 and 0.18 m in length and diamater, respectively; and (2) a field system of hydraulically connected boreholes located 47 m apart which penetrate a fractured chalk aquifer. We started by testing the transport potential of various NIPs under different conditions. Particle stability experiments were conducted using various NIPs and different stabilizersat two ionic strengths. Overall, four different NIPs and three stabilizers were tested. Particles and solution properties (stability, aggregate/particle size, viscosity and density) were tested in batch experiments, and transport experiments (breakthrough curves (BTCs) and recovery) were conduted in the fractured chalk core. We have learned that the key parameters controlling particle transport are the particle/aggregate size and stability, which govern NIP settling rates and ultimately their migration distance. The governing mechanism controlling NIP transport was found to be sedimentation, and to a much lesser extent, processes such as diffusion, straining or interception. On the basis of these experiments, Carbo-Iron® particles ( 800 nm activated carbon particles doped with nano zero valent iron particles) and Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) stabilizer were selected for the field test injection. In the field, Carbo-Iron particles were initially injected into the fractured aquifer using an excess of stabilizer in order to ensure maximum recovery. This resulted in high particle recovery and fast arrival time, similar to the ideal tracer (iodide). The high recovery of the stable particle solution emphasized the importance of particle stability for transport in fractures. To test mobility manipulation potential of the particles and simulate more realistic scenarios, a second field

  16. Adsorption of Heavy Metals in Industrial Wastewater by Magnetic Nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tu, Y.; You, C.

    2010-12-01

    Industrial wastewater containing heavy metals is of great concern because of their toxic impact to living species and environments. Removal of metal ions from industrial effluent using nano-particles is an area of extensive research. This study collected wastewaters and effluents from 11 industrial companies in tanning, electronic plating, printed circuit board manufacturing, semi-conductor, and metal surface treatment industry and studied in detailed the major and trace element compositions to develop potential fingerprinting technique for pollutant source identification. The results showed that electronic plating and metal surface treatment industry produce high Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, Ni and Mo wastewater. The tanning industry and the printed circuit board manufacturing industry released wastewater with high Fe and Cr, Cu and Ni, respectively. For semi-conductor industry, significant dissolved In was detected in wastewater. The absorption experiments to remove heavy metals in waters were conducted using Fe3O4 nano-particles. Under optimal conditions, more than 99 % dissolved metals were removed in a few minutes.

  17. Effects of serum on cytotoxicity of nano- and micro-sized ZnO particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hsiao, I.-Lun; Huang, Yuh-Jeen

    2013-09-01

    Although an increasing number of in vitro studies are being published regarding the cytotoxicity of nanomaterials, the components of the media for toxicity assays have often varied according to the needs of the scientists. Our aim for this study was to evaluate the influence of serum—in this case, fetal bovine serum—in a cell culture medium on the toxicity of nano-sized (50-70 nm) and micro-sized (<1 μm) ZnO on human lung epithelial cells (A549). The nano- and micro-sized ZnO both exhibited their highest toxicity when exposed to serum-free media, in contrast to exposure in media containing 5 or 10 % serum. This mainly comes not only from the fact that ZnO particles in the serum-free media have a higher dosage-per-cell ratio, which results from large aggregates of particles, rapid sedimentation, absence of protein protection, and lower cell growth rate, but also that extracellular Zn2+ release contributes to cytotoxicity. Although more extracellular Zn2+ release was observed in serum-containing media, it did not contribute to nano-ZnO cytotoxicity. Furthermore, non-dissolved particles underwent size-dependent particle agglomeration, resulting in size-dependent toxicity in both serum-containing and serum-free media. A low correlation between cytotoxicity and inflammation endpoints in the serum-free medium suggested that some signaling pathways were changed or induced. Since cell growth, transcription behavior for protein production, and physicochemical properties of ZnO particles all were altered in serum-free media, we recommend the use of a serum-containing medium when evaluating the cytotoxicity of NPs.

  18. In Vitro Assessment of the Antibacterial Potential of Silver Nano-Coatings on Cotton Gauzes for Prevention of Wound Infections

    PubMed Central

    Paladini, Federica; Di Franco, Cinzia; Panico, Angelica; Scamarcio, Gaetano; Sannino, Alessandro; Pollini, Mauro

    2016-01-01

    Multidrug-resistant organisms are increasingly implicated in acute and chronic wound infections, thus compromising the chance of therapeutic options. The resistance to conventional antibiotics demonstrated by some bacterial strains has encouraged new approaches for the prevention of infections in wounds and burns, among them the use of silver compounds and nanocrystalline silver. Recently, silver wound dressings have become widely accepted in wound healing centers and are commercially available. In this work, novel antibacterial wound dressings have been developed through a silver deposition technology based on the photochemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The devices obtained are completely natural and the silver coatings are characterized by an excellent adhesion without the use of any binder. The silver-treated cotton gauzes were characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) in order to verify the distribution and the dimension of the silver particles on the cotton fibers. The effectiveness of the silver-treated gauzes in reducing the bacterial growth and biofilm proliferation has been demonstrated through agar diffusion tests, bacterial enumeration test, biofilm quantification tests, fluorescence and SEM microscopy. Moreover, potential cytotoxicity of the silver coating was evaluated through 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide colorimetric assay (MTT) and the extract method on fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was performed in order to determine the silver release in different media and to relate the results to the biological characterization. All the results obtained were compared with plain gauzes as a negative control, as well as gauzes treated with a higher silver percentage as a positive control. PMID:28773531

  19. Are engineered nano iron oxide particles safe? an environmental risk assessment by probabilistic exposure, effects and risk modeling.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yan; Deng, Lei; Caballero-Guzman, Alejandro; Nowack, Bernd

    2016-12-01

    Nano iron oxide particles are beneficial to our daily lives through their use in paints, construction materials, biomedical imaging and other industrial fields. However, little is known about the possible risks associated with the current exposure level of engineered nano iron oxides (nano-FeOX) to organisms in the environment. The goal of this study was to predict the release of nano-FeOX to the environment and assess their risks for surface waters in the EU and Switzerland. The material flows of nano-FeOX to technical compartments (waste incineration and waste water treatment plants) and to the environment were calculated with a probabilistic modeling approach. The mean value of the predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) of nano-FeOX in surface waters in the EU for a worst-case scenario (no particle sedimentation) was estimated to be 28 ng/l. Using a probabilistic species sensitivity distribution, the predicted no-effect concentration (PNEC) was determined from ecotoxicological data. The risk characterization ratio, calculated by dividing the PEC by PNEC values, was used to characterize the risks. The mean risk characterization ratio was predicted to be several orders of magnitude smaller than 1 (1.4 × 10 - 4 ). Therefore, this modeling effort indicates that only a very limited risk is posed by the current release level of nano-FeOX to organisms in surface waters. However, a better understanding of the hazards of nano-FeOX to the organisms in other ecosystems (such as sediment) needs to be assessed to determine the overall risk of these particles to the environment.

  20. Green synthesis of highly stabilized nanocrystalline silver particles by a non-pathogenic and agriculturally important fungus T. asperellum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mukherjee, P.; Roy, M.; Mandal, B. P.; Dey, G. K.; Mukherjee, P. K.; Ghatak, J.; Tyagi, A. K.; Kale, S. P.

    2008-02-01

    A controlled and up-scalable biosynthetic route to nanocrystalline silver particles with well-defined morphology using cell-free aqueous filtrate of a non-pathogenic and commercially viable biocontrol agent Trichoderma asperellum is being reported for the first time. A transparent solution of the cell-free filtrate of Trichoderma asperellum containing 1 mM AgNO3 turns progressively dark brown within 5 d of incubation at 25 °C. The kinetics of the reaction was studied using UV-vis spectroscopy. An intense surface plasmon resonance band at ~410 nm in the UV-vis spectrum clearly reveals the formation of silver nanoparticles. The size of the silver particles using TEM and XRD studies is found to be in the range 13-18 nm. These nanoparticles are found to be highly stable and even after prolonged storage for over 6 months they do not show significant aggregation. A plausible mechanism behind the formation of silver nanoparticles and their stabilization via capping has been investigated using FTIR and surface-enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy.

  1. Finite element study of three dimensional radiative nano-plasma flow subject to Hall and ion slip currents

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nawaz, M.; Zubair, T.

    In this article, we developed a computer code of Galerikan Finite Element method (GFEM) for three dimensional flow equations of nano-plasma fluid (blood) in the presence of uniform applied magnetic field when Hall and ion slip current are significant. Lorentz force is calculated through generalized Ohm's law with Maxwell equations. A series of numerical simulations are carried out to search ηmax and algebraic equations are solved by Gauss-Seidel method with simulation tolerance 10-8 . Simulated results for special case have an excellent agreement with the already published results. Velocity components and temperature of the nano-plasma (blood) are influenced significantly by the inclusion of nano-particles of Copper (Cu) and Silver (Ag). Heat enhancement is observed when copper and silver nonmagnetic nanoparticles are used instead of simple base fluid (conventional fluid). Radiative nature of nano-plasma in the presence of magnetic field causes a decrease in the temperature due to the transfer of heat by the electromagnetic waves. In contrast to this, due to heat dissipated by Joule heating and viscous dissipation phenomena, temperature of nano-plasmaincreases as thermal radiation parameter is increased. Thermal boundary layer thickness can be controlled by using radiative fluid instead of non-radiative fluid. Momentum boundary layer thickness can be reduced by increasing the intensity of the applied magnetic field. Temperature of plasma in the presence magnetic field is higher than the plasma in the absence of magnetic field.

  2. Effect of size on bulk and surface cohesion energy of metallic nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yaghmaee, M. S.; Shokri, B.

    2007-04-01

    The knowledge of nano-material properties not only helps us to understand the extreme behaviour of small-scale materials better (expected to be different from what we observe from their bulk value) but also helps us to analyse and design new advanced functionalized materials through different nano technologies. Among these fundamental properties, the cohesion (binding) energy mainly describes most behaviours of materials in different environments. In this work, we discuss this fundamental property through a nano-thermodynamical approach using two algorithms, where in the first approach the size dependence of the inner (bulk) cohesion energy is studied, and in the second approach the surface cohesion energy is considered too. The results, which are presented through a computational demonstration (for four different metals: Al, Ga, W and Ag), can be compared with some experimental values for W metallic nano-particles.

  3. Contribution of the hydrostatic pressure to the shape of silver island particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anno, E.; Hoshino, R.

    1984-09-01

    We have investigated the shape change of silver island particles caused by the surface energy reduction. When the surface energy was reduced by the reaction with hydrogen sulfide, the flattening of the particles was observed. As is well known, the similar shape change takes place when the particle size increases. Therefore, the particle shape is considered to depend both on the surface energy and the particle size. From this consideration, we predict the contribution of the hydrostatic pressure P to the particle shape. As evidence of this contribution, we consider the existence of the critical size below which P is larger than the adhesive force FA between deposit and substrate surface. Investigating the influence of the flattening due to the surface energy reduction on the size distribution, the critical size is found and estimated to be about 80 Å in diameter. This value is comparable with that estimated from the condition P = FA.

  4. A simple robust method of synthesis of copper-silver core shell nano-particle: evaluation of its structural and chemical properties with anticancer potency.

    PubMed

    Banik, Milon; Patra, Mousumi; Dutta, Debanjan; Mukherjee, Riya; Basu, Tarakdas

    2018-05-09

    A simple method of synthesis of stable bimetallic copper-silver nanoparticle (Cu@Ag NP) was developed by successive reduction of Cu(NO3)2 and AgNO3, using hydrazine hydrate as the reducing agent and gelatine and Poly-vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) as the capping agents. The round-shaped particles were of core-shell structure with a core of Cu0 atoms surrounded by a shell of Ag0 atoms. The size and the mol. wt. of the NPs were (100 ± 10) nm and (820 ± 157) Kd respectively; the particles were crystalline in nature and 90% of the precursors Cu(NO3)2 and AgNO3 were converted to the NPs. The particles were more toxic to cancer cells than normal cells; the dose of the NPs (4.6 µg/ml), that killed 90% of the human liver cancer cells HepG2, killed only 32.5% of the normal liver cells WRL68. Therefore, the NP may be developed as a potent anti-cancer drug in future. The more detailed study on the cytotoxicity of Cu@AgNP revealed that the particles caused cell cycle arrest in G2 / M phase, depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, translocation of phosphatidyl serine residues from inner to outer leaflets of cell membrane and DNA degradation in the HepG2 cells; these phenomena confirmed that the NP-induced cell death was apoptotic in nature. © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

  5. Cytotoxicity and Physiological Effects of Silver Nanoparticles on Marine Invertebrates.

    PubMed

    Magesky, Adriano; Pelletier, Émilien

    2018-01-01

    Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) incorporation in commercial products is increasing due to their remarkable physical and chemical properties and their low cost on the market. Silver has been known for a long time to be highly toxic to bacterial communities, aquatic organisms, and particularly to marine biota. Strong chloro-complexes dominate Ag speciation in seawater and facilitate its persistence in dissolved form. It has a great impact on marine organisms because low concentration of silver can lead to strong bioaccumulation, partly because the neutral silver chloro complex (AgCl 0 ) is highly bioavailable. Owing to the fact that estuaries and coastal areas are considered as the ultimate fate for AgNPs, the study of their toxic effects on marine invertebrates can reveal some environmental risks related to nanosilver exposure. In an attempt to reach this goal, many invertebrate taxa including mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms and polychaetes have been used as biological models. The main findings related to AgNP toxicity and marine invertebrates are summarized hereafter. Some cellular mechanisms involving nano-internalization (cellular uptake, distribution and elimination), DNA damaging, antioxidant cellular defenses and protein expression are discussed. Physiological effects on early stage development, silver metabolic speciation, immune response, tissue damaging, anti-oxidant effects and nano-depuration are also described. Finally, we paid attention to some recent interesting findings using sea urchin developmental stages and their cells as models for nanotoxicity investigation. Cellular and physiological processes characterizing sea urchin development revealed new and multiple toxicity mechanisms of both soluble and nano forms of silver.

  6. Effects of electrolytes and surfactants on the morphology and stability of advanced silver nano-materials

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Obaid, Abdullah Yousif; AL-Thabaiti, Shaeel Ahmed; El-Mossalamy, E.H.

    2013-03-15

    Highlights: ► Stoichiometric ratio of S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−} and Ag{sup +} ions are responsible to the formation of prefect transparent yellow colored silver sol. ► Higher S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−} concentrations has damping effect. ► Head group of the surfactants and nature of the electrolytes have significant effect on the stability of silver nanoparticles. - Abstract: The impact of electrolytes, stabilizing and/or capping agents on morphology of colloidal silver nano-materials (AgNPs) has been studied spectroscopically. Sodium thiosulfate acts as reducing-, stabilizing- and damping-agents. Stoichiometric ratios of S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−} and Ag{sup +} ions were responsible to the formationmore » stable and prefect transparent dark yellow colored AgNPs. The S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−}-stabilized AgNPs were significantly more stable in inorganic electrolytes (NaNO{sub 3}, Na{sub 2}SO{sub 4}, Na{sub 2}CO{sub 3} and KBr). S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−} is adsorbed more strongly than the used other anions. The addition of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) has significant effects on the absorbance of S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−}-stabilized AgNPs which can be rationalized in terms of electrostatic attraction and repulsion between the adsorbed S{sub 2}O{sub 3}{sup 2−} ions on to the surface of AgNPs and cationic and/or anionic head groups of used surfactants, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy images suggest that AgNPs are polydispersed, spherical and exhibiting an interesting irregular morphology.« less

  7. Testing nano-silver food packaging to evaluate silver migration and food spoilage bacteria on chicken meat.

    PubMed

    Gallocchio, Federica; Cibin, Veronica; Biancotto, Giancarlo; Roccato, Anna; Muzzolon, Orietta; Carmen, Losasso; Simone, Belluco; Manodori, Laura; Fabrizi, Alberto; Patuzzi, Ilaria; Ricci, Antonia

    2016-06-01

    Migration of nanomaterials from food containers into food is a matter of concern because of the potential risk for exposed consumers. The aims of this study were to evaluate silver migration from a commercially available food packaging containing silver nanoparticles into a real food matrix (chicken meat) under plausible domestic storage conditions and to test the contribution of such packaging to limit food spoilage bacteria proliferation. Chemical analysis revealed the absence of silver in chicken meatballs under the experimental conditions in compliance with current European Union legislation, which establishes a maximum level of 0.010 mg kg(-1) for the migration of non-authorised substances through a functional barrier (Commission Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011). On the other hand, microbiological tests (total microbial count, Pseudomonas spp. and Enterobacteriaceae) showed no relevant difference in the tested bacteria levels between meatballs stored in silver-nanoparticle plastic bags or control bags. This study shows the importance of testing food packaging not only to verify potential silver migration as an indicator of potential nanoparticle migration, but also to evaluate the benefits in terms of food preservation so as to avoid unjustified usage of silver nanoparticles and possible negative impacts on the environment.

  8. Enhanced copper micro/nano-particle mixed paste sintered at low temperature for 3D interconnects

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dai, Y. Y.; Anantha, P.; Tan, C. S., E-mail: tancs@ntu.edu.sg

    2016-06-27

    An enhanced copper paste, formulated by copper micro- and nano-particles mixture, is reported to prevent paste cracking and obtain an improved packing density. The particle mixture of two different sizes enables reduction in porosity of the micro-paste and resolves the cracking issue in the nano-paste. In-situ temperature and resistance measurements indicate that the mixed paste has a lower densification temperature. Electrical study also shows a ∼12× lower sheet resistance of 0.27 Ω/sq. In addition, scanning electron microscope image analysis confirms a ∼50% lower porosity, which is consistent with the thermal and electrical results. The 3:1 (micro:nano, wt. %) mixed pastemore » is found to have the strongest synergistic effect. This phenomenon is discussed further. Consequently, the mixed paste is a promising material for potential low temperature 3D interconnects fabrication.« less

  9. Slip casting nano-particle powders for making transparent ceramics

    DOEpatents

    Kuntz, Joshua D [Livermore, CA; Soules, Thomas F [Livermore, CA; Landingham, Richard Lee [Livermore, CA; Hollingsworth, Joel P [Oakland, CA

    2011-04-12

    A method of making a transparent ceramic including the steps of providing nano-ceramic powders in a processed or unprocessed form, mixing the powders with de-ionized water, the step of mixing the powders with de-ionized water producing a slurry, sonifing the slurry to completely wet the powder and suspend the powder in the de-ionized water, separating very fine particles from the slurry, molding the slurry, and curing the slurry to produce the transparent ceramic.

  10. The role of particle size of particulate nano-zinc oxide wood preservatives on termite mortality and leach resistance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clausen, Carol A.; Kartal, S. Nami; Arango, Rachel A.; Green, Frederick

    2011-06-01

    Historically most residential wood preservatives were aqueous soluble metal formulations, but recently metals ground to submicron size and dispersed in water to give particulate formulations have gained importance. In this study, the specific role nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) particle size and leach resistance plays in termite mortality resulting from exposure to particulate ZnO-treated wood was investigated. Southern yellow pine (SYP) sapwood impregnated with three concentrations of two particle sizes (30 and 70 nm) of ZnO were compared to wood treated with soluble zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) preservative for leach resistance and termite resistance. Less than four percent leached from the particulate nano-ZnO-treated specimens, while 13 to 25% of the zinc sulphate leached from the soluble treated wood. Nano-ZnO was essentially non-leachable from wood treated with 5% formulation for the 30-nm particle size. In a no-choice laboratory test, eastern subterranean termites ( Reticulitermes flavipes) consumed less than 10% of the leached nano-ZnO-treated wood with 93 to 100% mortality in all treatment concentrations. In contrast, termites consumed 10 to 12% of the leached ZnSO4-treated wood, but with lower mortality: 29% in the 1% treatment group and less than 10% (5 and 8%, respectively) in the group of wood blocks treated with 2.5 and 5.0% ZnSO4. We conclude that termites were repelled from consuming wood treated with nano-ZnO, but when consumed it was more toxic to eastern subterranean termites than wood treated with the soluble metal oxide formulation. There were no differences in leaching or termite mortality between the two particle sizes of nano-ZnO.

  11. Gold nanostar synthesis with a silver seed mediated growth method.

    PubMed

    Kereselidze, Zurab; Romero, Victor H; Peralta, Xomalin G; Santamaria, Fidel

    2012-01-15

    The physical, chemical and optical properties of nano-scale colloids depend on their material composition, size and shape. There is a great interest in using nano-colloids for photo-thermal ablation, drug delivery and many other biomedical applications. Gold is particularly used because of its low toxicity. A property of metal nano-colloids is that they can have a strong surface plasmon resonance. The peak of the surface plasmon resonance mode depends on the structure and composition of the metal nano-colloids. Since the surface plasmon resonance mode is stimulated with light there is a need to have the peak absorbance in the near infrared where biological tissue transmissivity is maximal. We present a method to synthesize star shaped colloidal gold, also known as star shaped nanoparticles or nanostars. This method is based on a solution containing silver seeds that are used as the nucleating agent for anisotropic growth of gold colloids. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the resulting gold colloid showed that 70 % of the nanostructures were nanostars. The other 30 % of the particles were amorphous clusters of decahedra and rhomboids. The absorbance peak of the nanostars was detected to be in the near infrared (840 nm). Thus, our method produces gold nanostars suitable for biomedical applications, particularly for photo-thermal ablation.

  12. Effects of ultrasonic vibration on microstructure and mechanical properties of nano-sized SiC particles reinforced Al-5Cu composites.

    PubMed

    Li, Jianyu; Lü, Shulin; Wu, Shusen; Gao, Qi

    2018-04-01

    Ultrasonic vibration (UV) treatment has been successfully applied to improve the particles distribution of nano-sized SiC particles (SiC p ) reinforced Al-5Cu alloy matrix composites which were prepared by combined processes of dry high energy ball milling and squeeze casting. When UV treatment is applied, the distribution of nano-sized SiC p has been greatly improved. After UV for 1 min, large particles aggregates are broken up into small aggregates due to effects of cavitation and the acoustic streaming. After UV for 5 min, all the particles aggregates are dispersed and the particles are uniformly distributed in the composites. Compared with the Al-5Cu matrix alloy, the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and elongation of the 1 wt% nano-sized SiC p /Al-5Cu composites treated by UV for 5 min are 270 MPa, 173 MPa and 13.3%, which are increased by 7.6%, 6.8% and 29%, respectively. The improvements of mechanical properties after UV are attributed to the uniform distribution of nano particles, grain refinement of aluminum matrix alloy and reduction of porosity in the composites. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Low-Temperature Sintering Behavior (≤ 400°C) of Micro-sized Silver Particles Decorated by Silver Nanoparticles Through Surface Iodination

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Jian; Tang, Hongbo

    2018-05-01

    This paper introduces a facile and effective route to decorate micro-sized silver particle surfaces with Ag/AgI nanoclusters through a wet chemical reaction at room temperature using iodine and ethanol as reactant and solvent, respectively. Photosensitivity of AgI is utilized in the route, and AgI decomposes into Ag upon contact with sunshine, forming Ag/AgI nanoclusters. The modified micro-sized Ag particles showed sinterability even at 200°C and formed rigid electrical conductive networks at 350°C. Moreover, sintered film containing the modified Ag particles reached the best conductivity, 9.35 mΩ/sq, after sintering at 350°C for 20 min, while the film with untreated control Ag particles obtained its best conductivity at 400°C. The excellent sinterability should be attributed to the nanoclusters which served as a sintering aid during the heating process. However, increase of sintering temperature and time destroyed densification and conductivity of the sintered film containing the modified particles.

  14. The effect of acid–base clustering and ions on the growth of atmospheric nano-particles

    DOE PAGES

    Lehtipalo, Katrianne; Rondo, Linda; Kontkanen, Jenni; ...

    2016-05-20

    The growth of freshly formed aerosol particles can be the bottleneck in their survival to cloud condensation nuclei. It is therefore crucial to understand how particles grow in the atmosphere. Insufficient experimental data has impeded a profound understanding of nano-particle growth under atmospheric conditions. Here we study nano-particle growth in the CLOUD (Cosmics Leaving OUtdoors Droplets) chamber, starting from the formation of molecular clusters. We present measured growth rates at sub-3 nm sizes with different atmospherically relevant concentrations of sulphuric acid, water, ammonia and dimethylamine. We find that atmospheric ions and small acid-base clusters, which are not generally accounted formore » in the measurement of sulphuric acid vapour, can participate in the growth process, leading to enhanced growth rates. The availability of compounds capable of stabilizing sulphuric acid clusters governs the magnitude of these effects and thus the exact growth mechanism. Furthermore, we bring these observations into a coherent framework and discuss their significance in the atmosphere.« less

  15. The effect of acid–base clustering and ions on the growth of atmospheric nano-particles

    PubMed Central

    Lehtipalo, Katrianne; Rondo, Linda; Kontkanen, Jenni; Schobesberger, Siegfried; Jokinen, Tuija; Sarnela, Nina; Kürten, Andreas; Ehrhart, Sebastian; Franchin, Alessandro; Nieminen, Tuomo; Riccobono, Francesco; Sipilä, Mikko; Yli-Juuti, Taina; Duplissy, Jonathan; Adamov, Alexey; Ahlm, Lars; Almeida, João; Amorim, Antonio; Bianchi, Federico; Breitenlechner, Martin; Dommen, Josef; Downard, Andrew J.; Dunne, Eimear M.; Flagan, Richard C.; Guida, Roberto; Hakala, Jani; Hansel, Armin; Jud, Werner; Kangasluoma, Juha; Kerminen, Veli-Matti; Keskinen, Helmi; Kim, Jaeseok; Kirkby, Jasper; Kupc, Agnieszka; Kupiainen-Määttä, Oona; Laaksonen, Ari; Lawler, Michael J.; Leiminger, Markus; Mathot, Serge; Olenius, Tinja; Ortega, Ismael K.; Onnela, Antti; Petäjä, Tuukka; Praplan, Arnaud; Rissanen, Matti P.; Ruuskanen, Taina; Santos, Filipe D.; Schallhart, Simon; Schnitzhofer, Ralf; Simon, Mario; Smith, James N.; Tröstl, Jasmin; Tsagkogeorgas, Georgios; Tomé, António; Vaattovaara, Petri; Vehkamäki, Hanna; Vrtala, Aron E.; Wagner, Paul E.; Williamson, Christina; Wimmer, Daniela; Winkler, Paul M.; Virtanen, Annele; Donahue, Neil M.; Carslaw, Kenneth S.; Baltensperger, Urs; Riipinen, Ilona; Curtius, Joachim; Worsnop, Douglas R.; Kulmala, Markku

    2016-01-01

    The growth of freshly formed aerosol particles can be the bottleneck in their survival to cloud condensation nuclei. It is therefore crucial to understand how particles grow in the atmosphere. Insufficient experimental data has impeded a profound understanding of nano-particle growth under atmospheric conditions. Here we study nano-particle growth in the CLOUD (Cosmics Leaving OUtdoors Droplets) chamber, starting from the formation of molecular clusters. We present measured growth rates at sub-3 nm sizes with different atmospherically relevant concentrations of sulphuric acid, water, ammonia and dimethylamine. We find that atmospheric ions and small acid-base clusters, which are not generally accounted for in the measurement of sulphuric acid vapour, can participate in the growth process, leading to enhanced growth rates. The availability of compounds capable of stabilizing sulphuric acid clusters governs the magnitude of these effects and thus the exact growth mechanism. We bring these observations into a coherent framework and discuss their significance in the atmosphere. PMID:27197574

  16. Robust Design of a Particle-Free Silver-Organo-Complex Ink with High Conductivity and Inkjet Stability for Flexible Electronics.

    PubMed

    Vaseem, Mohammad; McKerricher, Garret; Shamim, Atif

    2016-01-13

    Currently, silver-nanoparticle-based inkjet ink is commercially available. This type of ink has several serious problems such as a complex synthesis protocol, high cost, high sintering temperatures (∼200 °C), particle aggregation, nozzle clogging, poor shelf life, and jetting instability. For the emerging field of printed electronics, these shortcomings in conductive inks are barriers for their widespread use in practical applications. Formulating particle-free silver inks has potential to solve these issues and requires careful design of the silver complexation. The ink complex must meet various requirements, such as in situ reduction, optimum viscosity, storage and jetting stability, smooth uniform sintered films, excellent adhesion, and high conductivity. This study presents a robust formulation of silver-organo-complex (SOC) ink, where complexing molecules act as reducing agents. The 17 wt % silver loaded ink was printed and sintered on a wide range of substrates with uniform surface morphology and excellent adhesion. The jetting stability was monitored for 5 months to confirm that the ink was robust and highly stable with consistent jetting performance. Radio frequency inductors, which are highly sensitive to metal quality, were demonstrated as a proof of concept on flexible PEN substrate. This is a major step toward producing high-quality electronic components with a robust inkjet printing process.

  17. Biological Experiments in Microgravity Conditions Using Magnetic Micro- and Nano-Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nechitailo, Galina S.; Kuznetsov, Anatoli; Kuznetsov, Oleg

    2016-07-01

    Gravity affects all living organisms on Earth, and plays a role in multiple processes in them. In microgravity conditions (e.g., on board of a spacecraft) many of these processes are disturbed, e.g., spatial orientation is lost, mass and heat exchange is distorted, many adaptive mechanisms no longer function, etc. Negation of these adverse effects by creation of pseudo-gravity to by centrifugation is complicated, expensive and unpractical. We propose to use naturally occurring magnetic heterogeneity of all living cells and high gradient magnetic fields as an alternative approach to negating the adverse effects of microgravity on living systems. In non-uniform magnetic field, magnetically heterogeneous objects experience a system of ponderomotive forces. For a weak magnetic particle, the net ponderomotive magnetic force: Fm = Δχ•V•grad(H2/2), where Δχ is the difference of susceptibilities of the particle and the surrounding media, V is the volume of the particle, grad(H2/2) is the dynamic factor of the magnetic field. We studied magnetic heterogeneity of plant gravity receptor cells, prepared and conducted experiments on board of the space station "Mir" on providing a gravity-like stimulus for flax seedlings using high gradient magnetic field ("Magnetogravistat" experiment). Later, a more sophisticated version of this experiment was flown on STS-107. These experiments provided new data on the mechanisms of plant gravity reception and created a method for substituting gravity for a living organism by a force of a different physical nature, to negate the adverse effects of microgravity. Since the ponderomotive force is proportional to the dynamic factor of the field grad(H2/2), the stronger the field, and the faster it changes over distance, the higher is the dynamic factor and the stronger the ponderomotive force. Therefore, in the small vicinity of a small ferromagnetic particle (preferably metallic micro or nano-particles), the forces are very significant

  18. A new, simple, green, and one-pot four-component synthesis of bare and poly(α,γ, L-glutamic acid)-capped silver nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Savanović, Igor; Uskoković, Vuk; Škapin, Srečo D.; Bračko, Ines; Jovanović, Uroš; Uskoković, Dragan

    2013-01-01

    A simple and green chemical method has been developed to synthesize stable bare and capped silver nanoparticles based on the reduction of silver ions by glucose and capping by poly(α,γ,L-glutamic acid) (PGA). The use of ammonia during synthesis was avoided. PGA has had a dual role in the synthesis and was used as a capping agent to make the silver nanoparticle more biocompatible and to protect the nanoparticles from agglomerating in the liquid medium. The synthesized PGA-capped silver nanoparticles in the size range 5–45 nm were stable over long periods of time, without signs of precipitation. Morphological examination has shown that the silver nanoparticles had a nearly spherical, multiply twinned structure. The effects of the reaction temperature and the reaction time during the synthesis were investigated too. The biocompatibility of the PGA-capped silver nano-particles is discussed in terms of in vitro toxicity with human intestinal Caco-2 cells. The samples were characterized by UV–Visible spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and zeta potential measurements. PMID:24062597

  19. Voltage-Induced Nonlinear Conduction Properties of Epoxy Resin/Micron-Silver Particles Composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qu, Zhaoming; Lu, Pin; Yuan, Yang; Wang, Qingguo

    2018-01-01

    The nonlinear conduction properties of epoxy resin (ER)/micron-silver particles (MP) composites were investigated. Under sufficient high intensity applied constant voltage, the obvious nonlinear conduction properties of the samples with volume fraction 25% were found. With increments in the voltage, the conductive switching effect was observed. The nonlinear conduction mechanism of the ER/MP composites under high applied voltages could be attributed to the electrical current conducted via discrete paths of conductive particles induced by the electric field. The test results show that the ER/MP composites with nonlinear conduction properties are of great potential application in electromagnetic protection of electron devices and systems.

  20. Nuclear Reactions in Micro/Nano-Scale Metal Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Y. E.

    2013-03-01

    Low-energy nuclear reactions in micro/nano-scale metal particles are described based on the theory of Bose-Einstein condensation nuclear fusion (BECNF). The BECNF theory is based on a single basic assumption capable of explaining the observed LENR phenomena; deuterons in metals undergo Bose-Einstein condensation. The BECNF theory is also a quantitative predictive physical theory. Experimental tests of the basic assumption and theoretical predictions are proposed. Potential application to energy generation by ignition at low temperatures is described. Generalized theory of BECNF is used to carry out theoretical analyses of recently reported experimental results for hydrogen-nickel system.

  1. Comparative evaluation of hydroxyapatite and nano-bioglass in two forms of conventional micro- and nano-particles in repairing bone defects (an animal study).

    PubMed

    Nosouhian, Saied; Razavi, Mohammad; Jafari-Pozve, Nasim; Rismanchian, Mansour

    2015-01-01

    Many synthetic bone materials have been introduced for repairing bone defects. The aim of this study is to comparatively evaluate the efficacy of nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) and nano-bioglass bone materials with their traditional micro counterparts in repairing bone defects. In this prospective animal study, four healthy dogs were included. First to fourth premolars were extracted in each quadrant and five cavities in each quadrant were created using trephine. Sixteen cavities in each dog were filled by HA, nano-HA, bioglass, and nano-bioglass and four defects were left as the control group. All defects were covered by a nonrestorable membrane. Dogs were sacrificed after 15, 30, 45, and 60 days sequentially. All 20 samples were extracted by trephine #8 with a sufficient amount of surrounding bone. All specimens were investigated under an optical microscope and the percentage of total regenerated bone, lamellar, and woven bone were evaluated. Data analysis was carried out by SPSS Software ver. 15 and Mann-Whitney U-test (α =0.05). After 15 days, the bone formation percentage showed a significant difference between HA and nano-HA and between HA and bioglass (P < 0.001). The nano-HA group showed the highest rate of bone formation after 15 days. Nano-bioglass and bioglass and nano-HA and nano-bioglass groups represented a significant difference and nano-bioglass showed the highest rate of bone formation after 30 days (P = 0.01). After 45 days, the bone formation percentage showed a significant difference between nano-bioglass and bioglass and between nano-HA and nano-bioglass groups (P = 0.01). Nano-HA and nano-bioglass biomaterials showed promising results when compared to conventional micro-particles in the repair of bone defects.

  2. Magnified fluorescence detection of silver(I) ion in aqueous solutions by using nano-graphite-DNA hybrid and DNase I.

    PubMed

    Wei, Yin; Li, Bianmiao; Wang, Xu; Duan, Yixiang

    2014-08-15

    This paper describes a novel approach utilizing nano-graphite-DNA hybrid and DNase I for the amplified detection of silver(I) ion in aqueous solutions for the first time. Nano-graphite can effectively quench the fluorescence of dye-labeled cytosine-rich single-stranded DNA due to its strong π-π stacking interactions; however, in the presence of Ag(+), C-Ag(+)-C coordination induces the probe to fold into a hairpin structure, which does not adsorb on the surface of nano-graphite and thus retains the dye fluorescence. Meanwhile, the hairpin structure can be cleaved by DNase I, and in such case Ag(+) is delivered from the complex. The released Ag(+) then binds other dye-labeled single-stranded DNA on the nano-graphite surface, and touches off another target recycling, resulting in the successive release of dye-labeled single-stranded DNA from the nano-graphite, which leads to significant amplification of the signal. The present magnification sensing system exhibits high sensitivity toward Ag(+) with a limit of detection of 0.3nM (S/N=3), which is much lower than the standard for Ag(+) in drinking water recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The selectivity of the sensor for Ag(+) against other biologically and environmentally related metal ions is outstanding due to the high specificity of C-Ag(+)-C formation. Moreover, the sensing system is used for the determination of Ag(+) in river water samples with satisfying results. The proposed assay is simple, cost-effective, and might open the door for the development of new assays for other metal ions or biomolecules. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Synthesis of supported silver nano-spheres on zinc oxide nanorods for visible light photocatalytic applications

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Saoud, Khaled; Alsoubaihi, Rola; Bensalah, Nasr

    Highlights: • Synthesis of supported Ag NPs on ZnO nanorods using open vessel microwave reactor. • Use of the Ag/ZnO NPs as an efficient visible light photocatalyst. • Complete degradation of methylene blue in 1 h with 0.5 g/L Ag/ZnO NPs. - Abstract: We report the synthesis of silver (Ag) nano-spheres (NS) supported on zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods through two step mechanism, using open vessel microwave reactor. Direct reduction of ZnO from zinc nitrates was followed by deposition precipitation of the silver on the ZnO nanorods. The supported Ag/ZnO nanoparticles were then characterized by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, FTIR, photoluminescencemore » and UV–vis spectroscopy. The visible light photocatalytic activity of Ag/ZnO system was investigated using a test contaminant, methylene blue (MB). Almost complete removal of MB in about 60 min for doses higher than 0.5 g/L of the Ag/ZnO photocatalyst was achieved. This significant improvement in the photocatalytic efficiency of Ag/ZnO photocatalyst under visible light irradiation can be attributed to the presence of Ag nanoparticles on the ZnO nanoparticles which greatly enhances absorption in the visible range of solar spectrum enabled by surface plasmon resonance effect from Ag nanoparticles.« less

  4. TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF NANO-SIZE PARTICLES IN THE UPPER HUMAN RESPIRATORY AIRWAYS

    EPA Science Inventory

    TRANSPORT AND DEPOSITION OF NANO-SIZE PARTICLES IN THE UPPER HUMAN RESPIRATORY AIRWAYS. Zhe Zhang*, Huawei Shi, Clement Kleinstreuer, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7910; Chong S. Kim, National Health and En...

  5. Membrane fouling by extracellular polymeric substances after ozone pre-treatment: Variation of nano-particles size.

    PubMed

    Yu, Wenzheng; Zhang, Dizhong; Graham, Nigel J D

    2017-09-01

    The application of ozone pre-treatment for ultrafiltration (UF) in drinking water treatment has been studied for more than 10 years, but its performance in mitigating or exacerbating membrane fouling has been inconclusive, and sometimes contradictory. To help explain this, our study considers the significance of the influent organic matter and its interaction with ozone on membrane fouling, using solutions of two representative types of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), alginate and bovine serum albumin (BSA), and samples of surface water. The results show that at typical ozone doses there is no measurable mineralization of alginate and BSA, but substantial changes in their structure and an increase in the size of nano-particle aggregates (micro-flocculation). The impact of ozonation on membrane fouling, as indicated by the membrane flux, was markedly different for the two types of EPS and found to be related to the size of the nano-particle aggregates formed in comparison with the UF pore size. Thus, for BSA, ozonation created aggregate sizes similar to the UF pore size (100 k Dalton) which led to an increase in fouling. In contrast, ozonation of alginate created the nano-particle aggregates greater than the UF pore size, giving reduced membrane fouling/greater flux. For solutions containing a mixture of the two species of EPS the overall impact of ozonation on UF performance depends on the relative proportion of each, and the ozone dose, and the variable behaviour has been demonstrated by the surface water. These results provide new information about the role of nano-particle aggregate size in explaining the reported ambiguity over the benefits of applying ozone as pre-treatment for ultrafiltration. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  6. Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant Spray (External Review Draft)

    EPA Science Inventory

    This draft document presents a case study of engineered nanoscale silver (nano-Ag), focusing on the specific example of nano-Ag as possibly used in disinfectant sprays. This case study is organized around a comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) framework, which combines a ...

  7. Controlled assembly of silver nano-fluid in Heliotropium crispum extract: A potent anti-biofilm and bactericidal formulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khan, Faria; Hashmi, Muhammad Uzair; Khalid, Nauman; Hayat, Muhammad Qasim; Ikram, Aamer; Janjua, Hussnain A.

    2016-11-01

    The study describes the optimized method for silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) synthesis using Heliotropium crispum (HC) plant extract. Optimization of physicochemical parameters resulted in stable and rapidly assembled AgNPs. FTIR results suggest presence of plant phytochemicals that helped in the reduction, stabilization and capping of AgNPs. The assembled Ag nano-composites displayed the peak surface plasmon resonance (SPR) around 428 nm. The presence of uniquely assembled Ag-biomolecule composites, cap and stabilize nanoparticles in aqueous plant suspension. Spherical, uniform-shaped AgNPs with low poly-dispersion and average particle size of 42 nm and was determined through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning election microscopy (SEM) which present robust interaction with microbes. The study also evaluates the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of biologically synthesized AgNPs on clinical isolates of MRSA, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. Minimum inhibitory concentration (0.5 mg mL-1) of nanoparticles that presented bactericidal effect was made through inhibition assays on bacterial strains. The concentration which presented potent bactericidal response was then evaluated through growth inhibition in liquid medium for anti-biofilm studies at 2.0 mg mL-1. HC-Ag nanoparticles mediated anti-biofilm effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa was revealed through SEM. Complete breakdown of biofilm's extracellular polymeric substances resulted after incubation with AgNPs. Peptidoglycan cell wall destruction was also revealed on planktonic bacterial images after 24 h of incubation.

  8. Modifying Si-based consolidants through the addition of colloidal nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ksinopoulou, E.; Bakolas, A.; Moropoulou, A.

    2016-04-01

    The modification of silicon-based stone consolidants has been the subject of many scientific studies aiming to overcome the commonly reported drawbacks of these materials, such as the tendency to shrink and crack during drying. The addition of nano-particle dispersions into silica matrix has been found to enhance their effectiveness in several ways. Objective of the current research was to study the preparation of particle-modified consolidants (PMC), consisting of an ethyl silicate matrix (TEOS) loaded with colloidal silica (SiO2) nano-particles and oxide titania (TiO2) particles. The effect of the polyacrylic acid on the dispersion stability was also investigated, by varying its concentration into PMC samples. The prepared materials were allowed to dry in two different relative humidity environments and then evaluated based on their stability in the sol phase, the aggregation sizes, determined through dynamic light scattering, the % solids content and their morphological characteristics, observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDAX). Mercury intrusion porosimetry was also applied to investigate the microstructural characteristics and differences between the prepared consolidants. Significant role in the final form of the material is played by both the initial molar ratios in the mixtures, as well as the conditions where the drying and aging takes place. Based on the results, the three-component PMCs appear to be promising in stone consolidation, as they show a reduction in cracking and shrinkage during drying and a more porous network, compared with the siliceous material, or the two-component TEOS-SiO2 formulation.

  9. Manipulation of Nano-/Micro Particles Using Light-Actuated Marangoni Tweezers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Cunjing; Varanakkottu, Subramanyan; Hardt, Steffen; Nano-; Microfluidics, Center of Smart Interfaces, TU Darmstadt Team

    2015-11-01

    The ability to manipulate and produce patterns of nano-/micro objects has been of great interest from both a fundamental and an application point of view. Here we demonstrate particle patterning using an optical landscape and optical nanoparticle manipulation based on light-actuated Marangoni tweezers. A liquid film with a photosurfactant which exists in two isomeric states (cis and trans) is employed for that purpose. Under multiple laser spots created by diffractive optical elements from a He-Cd laser, cis-rich regions with higher surface tension than unexposed trans-rich regions are created, resulting in converging Marangoni flows directing particles attached to the liquid surface toward the irradiated area. 10 μm polystyrene particles and 600 nm λ-DNA molecules distributed over the liquid surface move to the nearest laser spot and can be arranged in specific patterns. Furthermore, 100 nm polystyrene particles and 20 nm quantum dots can also be trapped, and the 100 nm particles can be driven along quite complex trajectories. Compared to conventional optical tweezers, the corresponding power requirements are much lower.

  10. Sunscreens with Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Nano-Particles: A Societal Experiment

    PubMed Central

    van de Poel, Ibo; Osseweijer, Patricia

    2010-01-01

    The risks of novel technologies, such as nano(bio)technology cannot be fully assessed due to the existing uncertainties surrounding their introduction into society. Consequently, the introduction of innovative technologies can be conceptualised as a societal experiment, which is a helpful approach to evaluate moral acceptability. This approach is illustrated with the marketing of sunscreens containing nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles. We argue that the marketing of this TiO2 nanomaterial in UV protective cosmetics is ethically undesirable, since it violates four reasonable moral conditions for societal experimentation (absence of alternatives, controllability, limited informed consent, and continuing evaluation). To remedy the current way nano-sized TiO2 containing sunscreens are utilised, we suggest five complementing actions (closing the gap, setup monitoring tools, continuing review, designing for safety, and regulative improvements) so that its marketing can become more acceptable. PMID:20835397

  11. Effects of particle size and coating on toxicologic parameters, fecal elimination kinetics and tissue distribution of acutely ingested silver nanoparticles in a mouse model

    PubMed Central

    Bergin, Ingrid L.; Wilding, Laura A.; Morishita, Masako; Walacavage, Kim; Ault, Andrew P.; Axson, Jessica L.; Stark, Diana I.; Hashway, Sara A.; Capracotta, Sonja S.; Leroueil, Pascale R.; Maynard, Andrew D.; Philbert, Martin A.

    2015-01-01

    Consumer exposure to silver nanoparticles (AgNP) via ingestion can occur due to incorporation of AgNP into products such as food containers and dietary supplements. AgNP variations in size and coating may affect toxicity, elimination kinetics or tissue distribution. Here, we directly compared acute administration of AgNP of two differing coatings and sizes to mice, using doses of 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/kg body weight/day administered by oral gavage for 3 days. The maximal dose is equivalent to 2000× the EPA oral reference dose. Silver acetate at the same doses was used as ionic silver control. We found no toxicity and no significant tissue accumulation. Additionally, no toxicity was seen when AgNP were dosed concurrently with a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Between 70.5% and 98.6% of the administered silver dose was recovered in feces and particle size and coating differences did not significantly influence fecal silver. Peak fecal silver was detected between 6- and 9-h post-administration and <0.5% of the administered dose was cumulatively detected in liver, spleen, intestines or urine at 48 h. Although particle size and coating did not affect tissue accumulation, silver was detected in liver, spleen and kidney of mice administered ionic silver at marginally higher levels than those administered AgNP, suggesting that silver ion may be more bioavailable. Our results suggest that, irrespective of particle size and coating, acute oral exposure to AgNP at doses relevant to potential human exposure is associated with predominantly fecal elimination and is not associated with accumulation in tissue or toxicity. PMID:26305411

  12. [Chemical modification on the surface of nano-particles of ZnO and its characterization].

    PubMed

    Yu, Hai-yin; Du, Jun; Gu, Jia-shan; Guan, Ming-yun; Wu, Zheng-cui; Ling, Qing; Sun, Yi-min

    2004-02-01

    After nano-particles (ZnO) had been encapsulated by a kind of water-soluble cellulose Hydoxyl-Propyl-Methyl Cellulose (HPMC), then methyl methacrylate was grafted onto the surface of them. Thus the surface of nano-ZnO had been successfully modified. FTIR, DTA and TEM were utilized to confirm the results. FTIR shows that HPMC was adsorbed onto the surface of ZnO, and PMMA was also grafted onto its surface, DTA says that the heat stability of HPMC, HPMC-g-PMMA and ZnO/HPMC-g-PMMA increased greatly, TEM photo demonstrates that polymer adhered onto the surface of nano-ZnO which was encapsulated by a layer of film-like polymer.

  13. Synthesis of Ferrite Nickel Nano-particles and Its Role as a p-Dopant in the Improvement of Hole Injection of an Organic Light-Emitting Diode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Noori, Maryam; Jafari, Mohammad Reza; Hosseini, Sayed Mohsen; Shahedi, Zahra

    2017-07-01

    We fabricated an organometallic complex based on zinc ions using zinc complex as a fluorescent in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Also, the nano-particles of ferrite nickel were produced in a simple aqueous system prepared by mixing Ni (NO3)2, Fe (NO3)3 and deionized water solutions. The synthesized zinc bis (8-hydroxyquinoline) (Znq2) complex and NiFe2O4 nano-particles were characterized by using x-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) as well as photoluminescence spectroscopy analysis. Their energy level was also determined by some cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. The maximum green photoluminescence was observed at 565 nm. The nano-particles of ferrite nickel were utilized in preparation of OLEDs by blending of the magnetic nano-particles with PEDOT:PSS and Zn-complex solutions. The electrical and optical performance of prepared OLEDs with/without doped nano-particle was studied. The samples were configured into two structures: (1) Indium Tin Oxide (ITO)/ poly(3,4-ethylenedi-oxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/Znq2/(2-4-biphenylyl)-5-phenyl-oxadiazole (PBD)/aluminum (Al) and (2) ITO/PEDOT:PSS:NiFe2O4(NPs)/Znq2/PBD/Al. Obtained results showed that the current density and electroluminescence efficiency were increased and the turn-on voltage decreased (about 3 V) by using nano-particles into a PEDOT:PSS layer (Hole transport layer). Also, the electroluminescence efficiency was decreased by incorporating magnetic nano-particles into a Zn-complex layer (emissive layer). It was found that utilizing NiFe2O4 nano-particles caused an increase of hole-injection layer conductivity effectively and a decrease of the turn-on voltage.

  14. Ultrasound-facilitated transport of silver chloride (AgCl) particles in fish skin.

    PubMed

    Frenkel, V; Kimmel, E; Iger, Y

    2000-08-10

    Electron-dense nano-particles in aqueous suspension were administered by immersion into the epidermis of fish using ultrasound in the therapeutic range. Enhanced permeability of the tissues to the particles was achieved by acoustic cavitation, which induced a controlled level of necrosis in the outer cell layers, and by non-cavitational exposures, which widened intercellular spaces of non-necrosed tissue in deeper regions of the epidermis. Both particle concentration and penetration depth were quantified using transmission electron microscopy. While cavitation-induced perforation was necessary for particles to penetrate into the tissues, non-cavitational exposures during immersions increased the particle flux towards the skin surface, as well as the diffusion rate of the particles within the epidermis and their depth of penetration. The technique described above may potentially be applied for non-stressful, mass-administration of substances into aquatic animals, as well as the relatively new field of ultrasound-facilitated delivery in moist epithelial tissues in humans.

  15. Synthesis and characterization of porous CaCO3 micro/nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Achour, A.; Arman, A.; Islam, M.; Zavarian, A. A.; Basim Al-Zubaidi, A.; Szade, J.

    2017-06-01

    Porous CaCO3 particles, both micro and nano sized, were synthesized in a mixture of Ca(OH)2, hyaluronic acid (HA), glycine, NaOH and NaCl solution with supercritical carbon dioxide. The particles were characterized using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscope, Raman spectroscope (RS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS) and scanning electron microscope techniques. All these techniques showed that the particles crystallize into only one CaCO3 structure, namely the vaterite phase. In addition, FTIR, RS and XPS indicated the presence of residual reactive species i.e. glycine, NaCl, and HA. The XRD results confirmed the presence of NaCl and γ-glycine, which is a crystalline material. Moreover, the HA seems to be mostly embedded in the bulk of the micro-particles. Such materials are promising for biomedical applications such as drug delivery.

  16. Mechanism of Particle Formation in Silver/Epoxy Nanocomposites Obtained through a Visible-Light-Assisted in Situ Synthesis.

    PubMed

    dell'Erba, Ignacio E; Martínez, Francisco D; Hoppe, Cristina E; Eliçabe, Guillermo E; Ceolín, Marcelo; Zucchi, Ileana A; Schroeder, Walter F

    2017-10-03

    A detailed understanding of the processes taking place during the in situ synthesis of metal/polymer nanocomposites is crucial to manipulate the shape and size of nanoparticles (NPs) with a high level of control. In this paper, we report an in-depth time-resolved analysis of the particle formation process in silver/epoxy nanocomposites obtained through a visible-light-assisted in situ synthesis. The selected epoxy monomer was based on diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A, which undergoes relatively slow cationic ring-opening polymerization. This feature allowed us to access a full description of the formation process of silver NPs before this was arrested by the curing of the epoxy matrix. In situ time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering investigation was carried out to follow the evolution of the number and size of the silver NPs as a function of irradiation time, whereas rheological experiments combined with near-infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopies were performed to interpret how changes in the rheological properties of the matrix affect the nucleation and growth of particles. The analysis of the obtained results allowed us to propose consistent mechanisms for the formation of metal/polymer nanocomposites obtained by light-assisted one-pot synthesis. Finally, the effect of a thermal postcuring treatment of the epoxy matrix on the particle size in the nanocomposite was investigated.

  17. Electrochemical determination of paraquat in citric fruit based on electrodeposition of silver particles onto carbon paste electrode.

    PubMed

    Farahi, Abdelfettah; Achak, Mounia; El Gaini, Laila; El Mhammedi, Moulay Abderrahim; Bakasse, Mina

    2015-09-01

    Carbon paste electrodes (CPEs) modified with silver particles present an interesting tool in the determination of paraquat (PQ) using square wave voltammetry. Metallic silver particle deposits have been obtained via electrochemical deposition in acidic media using cyclic voltammetry. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements show that the silver particles are deposited onto carbon surfaces in aggregate form. The response of PQ with modified electrode (Ag-CPE) related to Ag/CP loading, preconcentration time, and measuring solution pH was investigated. The result shows that the increase in the two cathodic peak currents (Peak 1 and Peak 2), under optimized conditions, was linear with the increase in PQ concentration in the range 1.0 × 10 -7  mol/L to 1.0 × 10 -3  mol/L. The detection limit and quantification limit were 2.01 × 10 -8  mol/L and 6.073 × 10 -8  mol/L, respectively for Peak 1. The precision expressed as relative standard deviation for the concentration level 1.0 × 10 -5  mol/L (n = 8) was found to be 1.45%. The methodology was satisfactorily applied for the determination of PQ in citric fruit cultures. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  18. Oral toxicity of silver ions, silver nanoparticles and colloidal silver--a review.

    PubMed

    Hadrup, Niels; Lam, Henrik R

    2014-02-01

    Orally administered silver has been described to be absorbed in a range of 0.4-18% in mammals with a human value of 18%. Based on findings in animals, silver seems to be distributed to all of the organs investigated, with the highest levels being observed in the intestine and stomach. In the skin, silver induces a blue-grey discoloration termed argyria. Excretion occurs via the bile and urine. The following dose-dependent animal toxicity findings have been reported: death, weight loss, hypoactivity, altered neurotransmitter levels, altered liver enzymes, altered blood values, enlarged hearts and immunological effects. Substantial evidence exists suggesting that the effects induced by particulate silver are mediated via silver ions that are released from the particle surface. With the current data regarding toxicity and average human dietary exposure, a Margin of Safety calculation indicates at least a factor of five before a level of concern to the general population is reached. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Micromorphological characterization of zinc/silver particle composite coatings.

    PubMed

    Méndez, Alia; Reyes, Yolanda; Trejo, Gabriel; StĘpień, Krzysztof; Ţălu, Ştefan

    2015-12-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the three-dimensional (3D) surface micromorphology of zinc/silver particles (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings with antibacterial activity prepared using an electrodeposition technique. These 3D nanostructures were investigated over square areas of 5 μm × 5 μm by atomic force microscopy (AFM), fractal, and wavelet analysis. The fractal analysis of 3D surface roughness revealed that (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings have fractal geometry. Triangulation method, based on the linear interpolation type, applied for AFM data was employed in order to characterise the surfaces topographically (in amplitude, spatial distribution and pattern of surface characteristics). The surface fractal dimension Df , as well as height values distribution have been determined for the 3D nanostructure surfaces. © 2015 The Authors published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  20. NanoRocks: A Long-Term Microgravity Experiment to Stydy Planet Formation and Planetary Ring Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brisset, J.; Colwell, J. E.; Dove, A.; Maukonen, D.; Brown, N.; Lai, K.; Hoover, B.

    2015-12-01

    We report on the results of the NanoRocks experiment on the International Space Station (ISS), which simulates collisions that occur in protoplanetary disks and planetary ring systems. A critical stage of the process of early planet formation is the growth of solid bodies from mm-sized chondrules and aggregates to km-sized planetesimals. To characterize the collision behavior of dust in protoplanetary conditions, experimental data is required, working hand in hand with models and numerical simulations. In addition, the collisional evolution of planetary rings takes place in the same collisional regime. The objective of the NanoRocks experiment is to study low-energy collisions of mm-sized particles of different shapes and materials. An aluminum tray (~8x8x2cm) divided into eight sample cells holding different types of particles gets shaken every 60 s providing particles with initial velocities of a few cm/s. In September 2014, NanoRocks reached ISS and 220 video files, each covering one shaking cycle, have already been downloaded from Station. The data analysis is focused on the dynamical evolution of the multi-particle systems and on the formation of cluster. We track the particles down to mean relative velocities less than 1 mm/s where we observe cluster formation. The mean velocity evolution after each shaking event allows for a determination of the mean coefficient of restitution for each particle set. These values can be used as input into protoplanetary disk and planetary rings simulations. In addition, the cluster analysis allows for a determination of the mean final cluster size and the average particle velocity of clustering onset. The size and shape of these particle clumps is crucial to understand the first stages of planet formation inside protoplanetary disks as well as many a feature of Saturn's rings. We report on the results from the ensemble of these collision experiments and discuss applications to planetesimal formation and planetary ring

  1. Synthesis of phosphonic acid silver-graphene oxide nanomaterials with photocatalytic activity through ultrasonic-assisted method.

    PubMed

    Li, Yongshen; Song, Yunna; Ma, Zheng; Niu, Shuai; Li, Jihui; Li, Ning

    2018-06-01

    In this article, phosphonic acid silver-graphene oxide nanomaterials (Nano-PAS-GO) was synthesized from silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ) solution and phosphoric graphene oxide (PGO) via the convenient ultrasonic-assisted method, and the structure and morphology were characterized, and the photocatalytic activity and recyclability were evaluated through photocatalyzing degradation of Rhodamin B (RhB) aqueous solution, and the possible photocatalytic mechanism was also discussed. Based on those, it was confirmed that Nano-PAS-GO has been synthesized from AgNO 3 solution and PGO colloidal suspension under ultrasonic-assisted condition, and Nano-PAS-GO has consisted of phosphoric acid silver nanoparticles and GO with 2D lattice (2D GO lattice) connected in the form of C-P bonds, and the photodegradation rate of Nano-PAS-GO for RhB aqueous solution has reached 93.99%, and Nano-PAS-GO has possessed the nicer recyclability when the photocatalytic time was 50 min. From those results, the strong and stable interface . between PAS nanoparticles and 2D GO lattice connected in the form of the covalent bonds has effectively inhibited the occurrence of the photocorrosion phenomenon. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Surface enrichment of Pt in stable Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles on MgAl 2 O 4 spinel in oxidizing atmosphere

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Wei-Zhen; Nie, Lei; Cheng, Yingwen

    With the capability of MgAl2O4 spinel {111} nano-facets in stabilizing small Rh, Ir and Pt particles, bimetallic Ir-Pt catalysts on the same support were investigated, aiming at further lowering the catalyst cost by substituting expensive Pt with cheaper Ir in the bulk. Small Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles (< 2nm) were successfully stabilized on the spinel {111} nano-facets as expected. Interestingly, methanol oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) rate on the surface Pt atoms increases with oxidizing aging but decreases upon reducing treatment, where Ir is almost inactive under the same reaction conditions. Up to three times enhancement in Pt exposure was achieved when themore » sample was oxidized at 800 °C in air for 1 week and subsequently reduced by H2 for 2 h, demonstrating successful surface enrichment of Pt on Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles. A dynamic stabilization mechanism involving wetting\

  3. Morphology and nano-structure analysis of soot particles sampled from high pressure diesel jet flames under diesel-like conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Hao; Li, Tie; Wang, Yifeng; He, Pengfei

    2018-04-01

    Soot particles emitted from diesel engines have a significant impact on the atmospheric environment. Detailed understanding of soot formation and oxidation processes is helpful for reducing the pollution of soot particles, which requires information such as the size and nano-structure parameters of the soot primary particles sampled in a high-temperature and high-pressure diesel jet flame. Based on the thermophoretic principle, a novel sampling probe minimally disturbing the diesel jet flame in a constant volume combustion vessel is developed for analysing soot particles. The injected quantity of diesel fuel is less than 10 mg, and the soot particles sampled by carriers with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) grid and lacey TEM grid can be used to analyse the morphologies of soot aggregates and the nano-structure of the soot primary particles, respectively. When the quantity of diesel fuel is more than 10 mg, in order to avoid burning-off of the carriers in higher temperature and pressure conditions, single-crystal silicon chips are employed. Ultrasonic oscillations and alcohol extraction are then implemented to obtain high quality soot samples for observation using a high-resolution transmission electron microscope. An in-house Matlab-based code is developed to extract the nano-structure parameters of the soot particles. A complete sampling and analysis procedure of the soot particles is provided to study the formation and oxidation mechanism of soot.

  4. Advances in Silver Nanotechnology: An Update on Biomedical Applications and Future Perspectives.

    PubMed

    Aziz, Shiva Gholizadeh-Ghaleh; Aziz, Sara Gholizadeh-Ghaleh; Akbarzadeh, Abolfazl

    2017-04-01

    Nanotechnology is one of the most promising fields for producing new applications in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medicine. However, only a few products have been used for nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medical purposes. Nanoparticles have been among the most usually applied nanomaterial in our health care system for hundreds of years. The most prominent nano product is nano silver which generally present at 1-100 nm in size in at least one dimension. Silver nanoparticles reveal remarkably unusual chemical, physical and biological properties and have been used for many different applications which detailed in this review. This review is focusing on the different form of silver nanoparticles and its nanotechnological, biotechnological and medical applications. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  5. SU-F-T-662: Feasibility Study of Fe3O4/TaOx Nano Particles as a Radiosensitizer for Radiation Therapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ahn, S; Lee, N; Shin, S

    Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of using multifunctional Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx(core / shell) nano particles developed for CT and MRI contrast agent as dose enhancing radiosensitizers. Methods: Firstly, to verify the imaging detectability of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx nano particles, in-vivo tests were conducted. Approximately 600 mg/kg of 19 nm diameter Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx nano particles dispersed in phosphate buffered saline(PBS) were injected to ten nude Balb/c mice through the tail vein. Difference between pre- and post-injection images was analyzed by computing the pixel histogram and correlation coefficient factor using MATLAB in the user defined ROI. Secondly, to quantify the potentialmore » therapeutic enhancement with nano materials, DER (Dose Enhancement Ratio) and number of SER (Secondary Electron Ratio) were computed using TOPAS(ver.2.0 P-03) MC simulation. Results: In CT, MRI imaging, the aorta, the blood vessel, and the liver were clearly visualized after intravenous injection of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx nano particles. There was large different between pre and post-injection images of Histogram data and Coefficients of correlation factor in CT and MR are 0.006, 0.060, respectively. When 70 MeV protons were irradiated for a Gold, Tantalum, TaOx, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nano particle, DER was 2.59, 2.41, 1.68, 1.54 and 1.36 respectively. Similarly, SER increment was 2.31, 2.15, 1.56, 1.46, and 1.27 for Gold, Tantalum, TaOx, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx, Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nano particle, respectively. Conclusion: Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx nano particles have potential as a multifunctional agent which enhances the accuracy in cancer detection through visualization of developed tumor lesion and increases the therapeutic effect in proton therapy. The dose enhancement with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/TaOx was estimated as half of the Gold. However, tumor targeting such as combined with magnetic field may overcome the low DER. This research was

  6. Effect of Silver Flakes in Silver Paste on the Joining Process and Properties of Sandwich Power Modules (IGBTs Chip/Silver Paste/Bare Cu)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Su-Yan; Li, Xin; Mei, Yun-Hui; Lu, Guo-Quan

    2016-11-01

    In this study, a silver paste has been introduced for attaching chips onto bare Cu substrates (without coating) without applying pressure. Small nano-thickness Ag flakes, measuring 1 μm-5 μm length, were embedded uniformly in Ag nanoparticles for improving the density of the material. The presence of silver flakes in the silver paste affected the joining process and its microstructure. Microstructure characterization revealed that densification of the silver layer was affected by the presence of silver flakes as the flakes coarsened and formed reactive in situ nanoparticles, which facilitated the sintering between the flakes and the incorporated nanoparticles. Coarsening of silver flakes depended on the sintering temperature, time, and the atmosphere, which affected the decomposition and burning out of organics presented on the surface of the flakes. A high-density silver layer was obtained due to the presence of compact silver flakes. With an increase in the microstructure density, a higher bonding strength and a lower thermal impedance of the sintered joints were achieved. On performing pressureless sintering at 270°C for 30 min under 99.99% N2 or 4% H2/N2, the bonding strength and thermal impedance for 11 × 11 mm2 chips were excellent, measuring approximately 21.9 MPa and 0.077°C/W, respectively.

  7. Gold surface supported spherical liposome-gold nano-particle nano-composite for label free DNA sensing.

    PubMed

    Bhuvana, M; Narayanan, J Shankara; Dharuman, V; Teng, W; Hahn, J H; Jayakumar, K

    2013-03-15

    Immobilization of 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) liposome-gold nano-particle (DOPE-AuNP) nano-composite covalently on 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) on gold surface is demonstrated for the first time for electrochemical label free DNA sensing. Spherical nature of the DOPE on the MPA monolayer is confirmed by the appearance of sigmoidal voltammetric profile, characteristic behavior of linear diffusion, for the MPA-DOPE in presence of [Fe(CN)(6)](3-/4-) and [Ru(NH(3))(6)](3+) redox probes. The DOPE liposome vesicle fusion is prevented by electroless deposition of AuNP on the hydrophilic amine head groups of the DOPE. Immobilization of single stranded DNA (ssDNA) is made via simple gold-thiol linkage for DNA hybridization sensing in the presence of [Fe(CN)(6)](3-/4-). The sensor discriminates the hybridized (complementary target hybridized), un-hybridized (non-complementary target hybridized) and single base mismatch target hybridized surfaces sensitively and selectively without signal amplification. The lowest target DNA concentration detected is 0.1×10(-12)M. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance (EIS), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) techniques are used for DNA sensing on DOPE-AuNP nano-composite. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV) spectroscopic techniques are used to understand the interactions between the DOPE, AuNP and ssDNA. The results indicate the presence of an intact and well defined spherical DOPE-AuNP nano-composite on the gold surface. The method could be applied for fabrication of the surface based liposome-AuNP-DNA composite for cell transfection studies at reduced reagents and costs. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Dose limited reliability of quantitative annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy for nano-particle atom-counting.

    PubMed

    De Backer, A; Martinez, G T; MacArthur, K E; Jones, L; Béché, A; Nellist, P D; Van Aert, S

    2015-04-01

    Quantitative annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (ADF STEM) has become a powerful technique to characterise nano-particles on an atomic scale. Because of their limited size and beam sensitivity, the atomic structure of such particles may become extremely challenging to determine. Therefore keeping the incoming electron dose to a minimum is important. However, this may reduce the reliability of quantitative ADF STEM which will here be demonstrated for nano-particle atom-counting. Based on experimental ADF STEM images of a real industrial catalyst, we discuss the limits for counting the number of atoms in a projected atomic column with single atom sensitivity. We diagnose these limits by combining a thorough statistical method and detailed image simulations. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Effective Dielectric, Magnetic and Optical Properties of Isotropic and Anisotropic Suspensions of Ferroic Nano-Particles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-06-01

    project focuses on the theoretical study of suspensions of nano- particles of different nature (ferroelectric, ferromagnetic , multiferroic) with size ...SUBJECT TERMS EOARD, ferroelectric, ferromagnetic and multiferroic, new photorefractive effects in liquid crystal cell, new materials and systems...magnetic, mechanical, luminescence etc absent in a pure material . The idea of doping the liquid crystals with elongated ferromagnetic particles to

  10. Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Bacillus subtilis EWP-46 cell-free extract and evaluation of its antibacterial activity.

    PubMed

    Velmurugan, Palanivel; Iydroose, Mahudunan; Mohideen, Mohmed Hanifa Abdul Kader; Mohan, Thankiah Selva; Cho, Min; Oh, Byung-Taek

    2014-08-01

    This study highlights the ability of nitrate-reducing Bacillus subtilis EWP-46 cell-free extract used for preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by reduction of silver ions into nano silver. The production of AgNPs was optimized with several parameters such as hydrogen ion concentration, temperature, silver ion (Ag(+) ion) and time. The maximum AgNPs production was achieved at pH 10.0, temperature 60 °C, 1.0 mM Ag(+) ion and 720 min. The UV-Vis spectrum showed surface plasmon resonance peak at 420 nm, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) spectra showed the presence of element silver in pure form. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy images illustrated the nanoparticle size, shape, and average particle size ranging from 10 to 20 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy provided the evidence for the presence of biomolecules responsible for the reduction of silver ion, and X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that the obtained nanoparticles were in crystalline form. SDS-PAGE was performed to identify the proteins and its molecular mass in the purified nitrate reductase from the cell-free extract. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of AgNPs were investigated against gram-negative (Pseudomonas fluorescens) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria.

  11. Water-dispersible silver nanoparticles-decorated carbon nanomaterials: synthesis and enhanced antibacterial activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dinh, Ngo Xuan; Chi, Do Thi; Lan, Nguyen Thi; Lan, Hoang; Van Tuan, Hoang; Van Quy, Nguyen; Phan, Vu Ngoc; Huy, Tran Quang; Le, Anh-Tuan

    2015-04-01

    In recent years, a growing number of outbreak of infectious diseases have emerged all over the world. The outbreak of re-emerging and emerging infectious diseases is a considerable burden on global economies and public health. Nano-antimicrobials have been studied as an effective solution for the prevention of infectious diseases. In this work, we demonstrated a modified photochemical approach for the preparation of carbon nanotubes-silver nanoparticles (CNTs-Ag) and graphene oxide-silver nanoparticles (GO-Ag) nanocomposites, which can be stably dispersible in aqueous solution. The formation of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on the functionalized CNTs and GO nanosheets was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and UV-Vis measurements. These analyses indicated that the average particle sizes of Ag-NPs deposited on GO/CNTs nanostructures were ~6-7 nm with nearly uniform size distribution. Moreover, these nanocomposites were found to exhibit enhanced antibacterial activity against two strains of infectious bacteria including Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria as compared to bare Ag-NPs. Our obtained studies showed a high potential of GO-Ag and CNTs-Ag nanocomposites as effective and long-term disinfection solution to eliminate infectious bacterial pathogens.

  12. [Catalytic degradation of PCB77 by microwave-induced nano-particle metal oxides in diatomite].

    PubMed

    Huang, Guan-yi; Zhao, Ling; Dong, Yuan-hua

    2009-08-15

    The degradation of PCB77 in diatomite by microwave-induced catalytic oxidation was studied in a sealed vial, including four effects such as microwave (MV) radiating time, addition of different nano-particle metal oxides, concentration and type of acids and dosage of MnO2. The results indicated that PCB77 could be removed significantly by microwave-induced catalytic oxidation. Compared to control reactor (without MV radiation), the removal rate of PCB77 increased by twice after 1 min. In addition, the removal rate of PCB77 under MV radiation was gradually increased with time of radiation and then reached equilibrium after 10 min. The removal rates are about 50% and 20% by addition of H2SO4 and ultrapure water respectively. No significant removal was observed by addition of NaOH and without aqueous media. Moreover, catalytic degradation of PCB77 by microwave-induced nano-particle MnO2 had best removal rate was up to 90% after 1 min, in contrast with addition of nano-particle Fe2O3, CuO and Al2O3. The removal rate raised from 37.0% to 98.5% rapidly with the concentration of H2SO4 ranged from 1 mol/L to 8 mol/L, and H2SO4 mainly played a role of acidification but not oxidation. The addition of 0.01, 0.03 and 0.05 g MnO2 showed the similar result.

  13. Microwave electromagnetic properties of carbonyl iron particles and Si/C/N nano-powder filled epoxy-silicone coating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qing, Yuchang; Zhou, Wancheng; Luo, Fa; Zhu, Dongmei

    2010-02-01

    The electromagnetic characteristics of carbonyl iron particles and Si/C/N nano-powder filled epoxy-silicone coatings were studied. The reflection loss of the coatings exceeds -10 dB at 8-18 GHz and -9 dB at 2-18 GHz when the coating thickness is 1 and 3 mm, respectively. The dielectric and magnetic absorbers filled coatings possess excellent microwave absorption, which could be attributed to the proper incorporate of the multi-polarization mechanisms as well as strong natural resonance. It is feasible to develop the thin and wideband microwave absorbing coatings using carbonyl iron particles and Si/C/N nano-powder.

  14. New weight factor for Brownian force exerted on micro/nano-particles in air flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Peijie; Lin, Jianzhong; Ku, Xiaoke

    2018-05-01

    In order to effectively describe the effect of Brownian force exerted on the micro/nano-particles in air flow, a new weight factor, which is defined as the ratio of the characteristic velocity of the Brownian motion to the macroscopic velocity, is proposed and applied to the particle settlement under gravity. Results show that the weight factor can quantitatively evaluate the effect of Brownian force on the particle motion. Moreover, the value of the weight factor can also be used to judge the particle motion pattern and determine whether the Brownian force should be taken into account.

  15. Silver-based biohybrids "green" synthesized from Chelidonium majus L.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barbinta-Patrascu, Marcela Elisabeta; Badea, Nicoleta; Ungureanu, Camelia; Constantin, Marioara; Pirvu, Cristian; Rau, Ileana

    2016-06-01

    This paper describes an original bio-design of organic/inorganic hybrid architectures containing biomimetic membranes and celandine-nanoAg for different bioapplications. A simple, time efficient, low-cost and ecofriendly bottom-up procedure was used to build for the first time, celandine/nanoAg-based hybrids. Dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine bio-inspired lipid bilayers were obtained by thin film hydration method. Chlorophyll a inserted into these liposomes was used as a spectral marker to detect the changes occurred in the artificial membranes. For the first time, silver nanoparticles were eco-synthesized using an aqueous extract of celandine (Chelidonium majus L.). The physical stability of the samples was evaluated in terms of zeta potential. Chlorophyll a photonic properties (based on UV-Vis absorption and emission spectra) were used to monitor the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and of bio-based hybrids. The size of samples was monitored by Dynamic Light Scattering measurements and the morphological aspects were provided by Atomic Force Microscopy analysis. The obtained silver-based biohybrids exhibited high antioxidant activity (98.48%) and strong antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli ATCC 8738 (offering an inhibition zone of 51 mm diameter) and presented good physical stability (zeta potential reached the value of -30.7 mV) as compared to phyto-nanoAg alone.

  16. From lignin association to nano-/micro-particle preparation: Extracting higher value of lignin

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhao, Wenwen; Simmons, Blake; Singh, Seema

    As the most abundant source of renewable aromatic compounds on the planet, lignin is gaining growing interest in replacing petroleum-based chemicals and products. Value-added applications of lignin are also essential for economic viability for future bio-refineries. It is however an under-utilized natural resource due to its structural heterogeneities. Lignin nanoparticles offer many opportunities for value-added applications of lignin. The solution structures of lignin were proposed as one of the key elements in controlling lignin nano-/micro-particle preparation. Fundamental understanding of solutionstructures of lignin aid in designing better fabrication of lignin nanoparticles. A deeper understanding of the observed experimental results also pointsmore » to the need for detailed studies of lignin in solution. Lastly, this review consists of two major topics, the solution structures of lignin and lignin nano-/micro-particle preparation. Suggestions for future studies regarding these two topics were also put forward.« less

  17. From lignin association to nano-/micro-particle preparation: Extracting higher value of lignin

    DOE PAGES

    Zhao, Wenwen; Simmons, Blake; Singh, Seema; ...

    2016-09-26

    As the most abundant source of renewable aromatic compounds on the planet, lignin is gaining growing interest in replacing petroleum-based chemicals and products. Value-added applications of lignin are also essential for economic viability for future bio-refineries. It is however an under-utilized natural resource due to its structural heterogeneities. Lignin nanoparticles offer many opportunities for value-added applications of lignin. The solution structures of lignin were proposed as one of the key elements in controlling lignin nano-/micro-particle preparation. Fundamental understanding of solutionstructures of lignin aid in designing better fabrication of lignin nanoparticles. A deeper understanding of the observed experimental results also pointsmore » to the need for detailed studies of lignin in solution. Lastly, this review consists of two major topics, the solution structures of lignin and lignin nano-/micro-particle preparation. Suggestions for future studies regarding these two topics were also put forward.« less

  18. Modified Fourier heat flux on MHD flow over stretched cylinder filled with dust, Graphene and silver nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mamatha Upadhya, S.; Raju, C. S. K.; Saleem, S.; Alderremy, A. A.; Mahesha

    2018-06-01

    A Comprehensive study on laminar, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) boundary layer flow of nanofluid (water + Silver, water + Graphene) embedded with conducting micrometer sized dust particles over a stretching cylinder with the incorporation of Cattaneo-Christov heat flux model is conducted. Appropriate similarity variables are employed to the flow governing equations and the resulting ordinary differential equations are solved by employing Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg method. The results for varied controlling parameters for both dusty nano fluid and dust phase are shown through graphs, table and discussed in detail. Authentication of the obtained results is provided by comparing with published results. Results indicate that Graphene + water dusty nanofluid shows better heat transfer performance compared with Silver + water dusty nanofluid. Improvement in thermal relaxation boosts temperature distribution in both fluid and dust phase.

  19. Biofunctionalization of scaffold material with nano-scaled diamond particles physisorbed with angiogenic factors enhances vessel growth after implantation.

    PubMed

    Schimke, Magdalena M; Stigler, Robert; Wu, Xujun; Waag, Thilo; Buschmann, Peter; Kern, Johann; Untergasser, Gerold; Rasse, Michael; Steinmüller-Nethl, Doris; Krueger, Anke; Lepperdinger, Günter

    2016-04-01

    Biofunctionalized scaffold facilitates complete healing of large defects. Biological constraints are induction and ingrowth of vessels. Angiogenic growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor or angiopoietin-1 can be bound to nano-scaled diamond particles. Corresponding bioactivities need to be examined after biofunctionalization. We therefore determined the physisorptive capacity of distinctly manufactured, differently sized nDP and the corresponding activities of bound factors. The properties of biofunctionalized nDPs were investigated on cultivated human mesenchymal stem cells and on the developing chicken embryo chorio-allantoic membrane. Eventually porous bone substitution material was coated with nDP to generate an interface that allows biofactor physisorption. Angiopoietin-1 was applied shortly before scaffold implantation into an osseous defect in sheep calvaria. Biofunctionalized scaffolds exhibited significantly increased rates of angiogenesis already one month after implantation. Conclusively, nDP can be used to ease functionalization of synthetic biomaterials. With the advances in nanotechnology, many nano-sized materials have been used in the biomedical field. This is also true for nano-diamond particles (nDP). In this article, the authors investigated the physical properties of functionalized nano-diamond particles in both in-vitro and in-vivo settings. The positive findings would help improve understanding of these nanomaterials in regenerative medicine. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. AZO films with Al nano-particles to improve the light extraction efficiency of GaN-based light-emitting diodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chou, Ying-Hung; Yan, Jheng-Tai; Lee, Hsin-Ying; Lee, Ching-Ting

    2008-02-01

    The co-sputtering Al-doped ZnO (AZO) films with Al nano-particles were used to increase the extraction efficiency of GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Fixing the ZnO radio frequency (RF) power of 100W and changing the Al DC power from 0 to 13W, the AZO films with various Al contents can be obtained. In the experimental results, the AZO films deposited with Al DC power of 0, 4.5 and 7W do not have Al segregation. However, the segregated Al nano-particles can be found in the AZO films deposited by Al DC power of 10W and 13W. The co-sputtering 170 nm-thick AZO films with and without Al nano-particles were deposited on the transparent area of LEDs and compared the light output intensity of conventional LEDs. The light intensity of LEDs with AZO films with Al DC power 0, 4.5 and 7W increased 10% than that of conventional LEDs. This was due to the AZO film played a role of anti-reflection coating (ARC) layer. The light intensity of LEDs with AZO film deposited using Al DC power of 10W and 13W increased about 35% and 30%, respectively. It can be deduced that the output light is scattered by the Al nano-particles existed in the AZO film.

  1. Preparation of silver nanoparticles at low temperature

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mishra, Mini, E-mail: mishramini5@gmail.com; Chauhan, Pratima, E-mail: mangu167@yahoo.co.in

    Silver from ancient time is used as antimicrobial agent in the bulk form but now with the advancement in nanotechnology silver in the form of nanoparticles shown potential effect against microbes which make us easy to fight with many diseases plants and animals. In this work silver nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical routes using sodium borohydride as reducing agent at low temperature. The particles were characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy as well as X-Ray Diffraction. The UV-visible spectra of silver nanoparticles exhibited absorption at 425 cm; the crystallite size of the particles is between 19nm to 39nm. EDAX graph shows two peaksmore » of silver and oxygen. Water absorbed by silver nanoparticles was removed by the calcinations.« less

  2. Silver, bighead, and common carp orient to acoustic particle motion when avoiding a complex sound.

    PubMed

    Zielinski, Daniel P; Sorensen, Peter W

    2017-01-01

    Behavioral responses of silver carp (Hypopthalmichthys molitrix), bighead carp (H. nobilis), and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) to a complex, broadband sound were tested in the absence of visual cues to determine whether these species are negatively phonotaxic and the roles that sound pressure and particle motion might play mediating this response. In a dark featureless square enclosure, groups of 3 fish were tracked and the distance of each fish from speakers and their swimming trajectories relative to sound pressure and particle acceleration were analyzed before, and then while an outboard motor sound was played. All three species exhibited negative phonotaxis during the first two exposures after which they ceased responding. The median percent time fish spent near the active speaker for the first two trials decreased from 7.0% to 1.3% for silver carp, 7.9% to 1.1% for bighead carp, and 9.5% to 3% for common carp. Notably, when close to the active speaker fish swam away from the source and maintained a nearly perfect 0° orientation to the axes of particle acceleration. Fish did not enter sound fields greater than 140 dB (ref. 1 μPa). These results demonstrate that carp avoid complex sounds in darkness and while initial responses may be informed by sound pressure, sustained oriented avoidance behavior is likely mediated by particle motion. This understanding of how invasive carp use particle motion to guide avoidance could be used to design new acoustic deterrents to divert them in dark, turbid river waters.

  3. Silver, bighead, and common carp orient to acoustic particle motion when avoiding a complex sound

    PubMed Central

    Sorensen, Peter W.

    2017-01-01

    Behavioral responses of silver carp (Hypopthalmichthys molitrix), bighead carp (H. nobilis), and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) to a complex, broadband sound were tested in the absence of visual cues to determine whether these species are negatively phonotaxic and the roles that sound pressure and particle motion might play mediating this response. In a dark featureless square enclosure, groups of 3 fish were tracked and the distance of each fish from speakers and their swimming trajectories relative to sound pressure and particle acceleration were analyzed before, and then while an outboard motor sound was played. All three species exhibited negative phonotaxis during the first two exposures after which they ceased responding. The median percent time fish spent near the active speaker for the first two trials decreased from 7.0% to 1.3% for silver carp, 7.9% to 1.1% for bighead carp, and 9.5% to 3% for common carp. Notably, when close to the active speaker fish swam away from the source and maintained a nearly perfect 0° orientation to the axes of particle acceleration. Fish did not enter sound fields greater than 140 dB (ref. 1 μPa). These results demonstrate that carp avoid complex sounds in darkness and while initial responses may be informed by sound pressure, sustained oriented avoidance behavior is likely mediated by particle motion. This understanding of how invasive carp use particle motion to guide avoidance could be used to design new acoustic deterrents to divert them in dark, turbid river waters. PMID:28654676

  4. Silver Recovery and Power Generation from Ammonia Chelated Silver Solution in a Bio-Electrochemical Reactor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ho, N. A. D.; Babel, S.

    2017-06-01

    Silver has valuable features and limited availability, and thus recovery from wastewater or aqueous solutions plays an important role in environmental protection and economic profits. In this study, silver recovery along with power generation and COD removal were investigated in a bio-electrochemical system (BES). The BES comprised of an anode and a cathode chamber which were separated by a cation exchange membrane to prevent the cross-over of electrolytes. During the biological oxidation of acetate as an electron donor in the anode chamber, the reduction of ammonia chelated silver ions as electron acceptors in the cathode side occurred spontaneously. Results showed that a silver recovery of 99% and COD removal efficiency of 60% were achieved at the initial silver concentration of 1,000 mg/L after 48 hours of operation. The power generation improved 4.66%, from 3,618 to 3,795 mW/m3, by adding NaNO3 of 850 mg/L to the catholyte containing 2,000 mg/L of silver ions. Deposits on the cathode surface were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). Metallic silver with dendritic structures and high purity were detected. This study demonstrated that BES technology can be employed to recover silver from complex chelating solution, produce electricity, and treat wastewater.

  5. Micro/nano-particle decorated metal wire for cutting soft matter

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wei; Feng, Liang-liang; Wu, Fan; Zhang, Run-run; Wu, Cheng-wei

    2016-09-01

    To cut soft materials such as biological tissues with minimal damage and reduced positional error is highly desired in medical surgery and biomechanics. After years of natural selection and evolution, mosquitoes have acquired the ability to insert their proboscises into human skin with astonishingly tiny forces. This can be associated with the unique structure of their proboscises, with micro/nano sawteeth, and the distinctive insertion manner: high frequency reciprocating saw cutting. Inspired by these, this communication describes the successful implantation of metal oxide particles onto molybdenum wire surfaces through a sol-calcination process, to form a biomimetic sawblade with a high density of micro/nano saw teeth, where the acidification is essential in terms of generating active anchoring sites on the wire. When used as a sawblade in conjunction with reciprocating action to cut the viscoelastic gel, both the cut-in force and cut-in displacement could be decreased substantially. The cutting speed and frequency of reciprocating action are important operating parameters influencing cut-in force.

  6. Grafting of allylimidazole and n-vinylcaprolactam as a thermosensitive polymer onto magnetic nano-particles for the extraction and determination of celecoxib in biological samples.

    PubMed

    Morovati, Atefeh; Ahmad Panahi, Homayon; Yazdani, Farzaneh

    2016-11-20

    In this research, a novel method is reported for the surface grafting of n-vinylcaprolactam as a thermosensitive agent and allylimidazole with affinity toward celecoxib onto magnetic nano-particles. The grafted nano-particles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The surface morphology was studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The resulting grafted nano-particles were used for the determination of trace celecoxib in biological human fluids and pharmaceutical samples. The profile of celecoxib uptake by the modified magnetic nano-particles indicated good accessibility of the active sites in the grafted copolymer. It was found that the adsorption behavior could be fitted by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. Solid phase extraction for biological fluids such as urine and serum were investigated. In this study, urine extraction recovery of more than 95% was obtained. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Nano-particle doped hydroxyapatite material evaluation using spectroscopic polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Strąkowska, Paulina; Trojanowski, Michał; Gardas, Mateusz; Głowacki, Maciej J.; Kraszewski, Maciej; Strąkowski, Marcin R.

    2015-03-01

    Bio-ceramics such as hydroxyapatite (HAp) are widely used materials in medical applications, especially as an interface between implants and living tissues. There are many ways of creating structures from HAp like electrochemical assisted deposition, biomimetic, electrophoresis, pulsed laser deposition or sol-gel processing. Our research is based on analyzing the parameters of the sol-gel method for creating thin layers of HAp. In order to achieve this, we propose to use Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for non-destructive and non-invasive evaluation. Our system works in the IR spectrum range, which is helpful due to the wide range of nanocomposites being opaque in the VIS range. In order to use our method we need to measure two samples, one which is a reference HAp solution and second: a similar HAp solution with nanoparticles introduced inside. We use silver nanoparticles below 300 nm. The aim of this research is to analyze the concentration and dispersion of nanodopants in the bio-ceramic matrix. Furthermore, the quality of the HAp coating and deposition process repetition have been monitored. For this purpose the polarization sensitive OCT with additional spectroscopic analysis is being investigated. Despite the other methods, which are suitable for nanocomposite materials evaluation, the OCT with additional features seems to be one of the few which belong to the NDE/NDT group. Here we are presenting the OCT system for evaluation of the HAp with nano-particles, as well as HAp manufacturing process. A brief discussion on the usefulness of OCT for bio-ceramics materials examination is also being presented.

  8. Colloidal micro- and nano-particles as templates for polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules.

    PubMed

    Parakhonskiy, Bogdan V; Yashchenok, Alexey M; Konrad, Manfred; Skirtach, Andre G

    2014-05-01

    Colloidal particles play an important role in various areas of material and pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, and biomedicine. In this overview we describe micro- and nano-particles used for the preparation of polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules and as drug delivery vehicles. An essential feature of polyelectrolyte multilayer capsule preparations is the ability to adsorb polymeric layers onto colloidal particles or templates followed by dissolution of these templates. The choice of the template is determined by various physico-chemical conditions: solvent needed for dissolution, porosity, aggregation tendency, as well as release of materials from capsules. Historically, the first templates were based on melamine formaldehyde, later evolving towards more elaborate materials such as silica and calcium carbonate. Their advantages and disadvantages are discussed here in comparison to non-particulate templates such as red blood cells. Further steps in this area include development of anisotropic particles, which themselves can serve as delivery carriers. We provide insights into application of particles as drug delivery carriers in comparison to microcapsules templated on them. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Green and ecofriendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles: Characterization, biocompatibility studies and gel formulation for treatment of infections in burns.

    PubMed

    Jadhav, Kiran; Dhamecha, Dinesh; Bhattacharya, Debdutta; Patil, Mrityunjaya

    2016-02-01

    The current study summarizes a unique green process for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by simple treatment of silver nitrate with aqueous extract of Ammania baccifera. Phytosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by various advanced analytical methods and studied for its use against infections associated with burns. Formation of AgNPs was observed by visual color change from colorless to dark brown and confirmed by UV-visible characteristic peak at 436 nm. Zeta potential, particle size and polydispersity index of nano-silver were found to be -33.1 ± 1.12, 112.6 ± 6.8 nm and 0.3 ± 0.06 respectively. XRD spectra revealed crystalline nature of AgNPs whereas TEM confirmed the presence of mixed morphology of AgNPs. The overall approach designated in the present research investigation for the synthesis of AgNPs is based on all 12 principles of green chemistry, in which no man-made chemical other than the silver nitrate was used. Synthesized nano-silver colloidal dispersion was initially tested for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against a panel of organisms involved in infections associated with burns (Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA)). MIC and MBC were found to be in range of 0.992 to 7.93 and 7.93 to 31.75 μg/mL respectively. MBC was used for formulation of AgNP gel and tested for its efficacy using agar well diffusion method against PA, SA and MRSA. Comparative bactericidal efficacy of formulated gel (0.03% w/w) and marked formulation Silverex™ ionic (silver nitrate gel 0.2% w/w) showed equal zone of inhibition against all pathogenic bacteria. Formulated AgNP gel consisting of 95% lesser concentration of silver compared to marketed formulation was found to be equally effective against all organisms. Hence, the formulated AgNP gel could serve as a better alternative with least toxicity towards the treatment presently available for

  10. Enhanced sun protection of nano-sized metal oxide particles over conventional metal oxide particles: an in vitro comparative study.

    PubMed

    Singh, P; Nanda, A

    2014-06-01

    A systematic and detailed study has been designed and conducted, taking into account some of the proposed benefits such as increased efficiency, transparency, unique texture, protection of active ingredient and higher consumer compliance of cosmetics containing nano-sized metal oxides. This study also presents an in vitro method to determine sun protection factor of the investigational sunscreen cream samples containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with a varied range of particle size. Finally, a comparative study has been conducted between metal oxide particles, conventional as well as nanoparticles. All the skin cosmetics formulated were thermally stable with a pH ranging from 7.9 to 8.2. Moreover, the fatty acid substance content and residue were found to be analogous to the standard values in each skin cosmetic. The skin cosmetics containing the titanium or zinc oxide nanoparticles were found to have improved spreadability as compared to skin cosmetics containing conventional titanium or zinc oxide particles, respectively. All skin cosmetics were found to have uniform distribution of the particles. The sunscreen creams containing zinc oxide nanoparticles and titanium dioxide nanoparticles were found to have higher in vitro sun protection factor (SPF of 3.65 for ZnO nanoparticles and 4.93 for TiO2 nanoparticles) as compared to that of sunscreen creams containing conventional zinc oxide particles (SPF = 2.90) and conventional titanium dioxide (SPF = 1.29), clearly indicating the effect of reduction in particles size, from micro to nano, on the sun protection factor. Good texture, better spreadability and enhanced in vitro SPF proved the advantageous role of nanoparticles in cosmetics. © 2014 Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Société Française de Cosmétologie.

  11. Initial association of fresh microbial products to soil particles: a joint density fractionation and NanoSIMS study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hatton, Pierre-Joseph; Remusat, Laurent; Brewer, Elizabeth; Derrien, Delphine

    2014-05-01

    While soil microorganisms are increasingly seen as shaping stable soil organic matter (OM) formation, the mechanisms controlling the attachment of microbial metabolites to soil particles are not fully understood yet. We investigate the spatial distribution of freshly produced microbial products among density-isolated fractions of soil using stable C and N isotopes and Nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS). A surface forest soil was amended with uniformly 13C/15N labeled glycine and incubated for 8 hours in gamma-irradiated and non-sterile soils. Sequential density fractionation was then performed to isolate various classes of aggregates and of single mineral particles. Eight hours after the labeled glycine addition, 7 % of the 13C and 15N was tightly bound to soil assemblages. Comparison of sterile and non-sterile treatments revealed that microbial activity was almost completely responsible for this rapid association (>85 %). The distributions of glycine-derived 13C and 15N, considered as markers of new microbial products, were mapped on particles of the non-sterile treatment using NanoSIMS. New microbial products were heterogeneously distributed and spatially decoupled at the surface of on soil particles. 13C microbial products were scarce and presumably within or in the vicinity of microbial cells. In contrast, 15N microbial products seemed evenly spread at the surface of soil particles, likely as soluble exoenzymes diffusing away from their parent cell. Macroscopic measurements among density fractions suggested that the diffusion of such 15N microbial products was spatially limited yet, because of pore space architecture. NanoSIMS images further allowed gaining insight into the attachment of the new microbial products on particle surfaces already covered by OM, in a multilayer fashion. Using an internal calibration method to determine C/N ratios of NanoSIMS images, we showed the preferential attachment of soluble microbial N-metabolites to N

  12. The facile synthesis of chitosan-based silver nano-biocomposites via a solution plasma process and their potential antimicrobial efficacy.

    PubMed

    Davoodbasha, MubarakAli; Kim, Seong-Cheol; Lee, Sang-Yul; Kim, Jung-Wan

    2016-09-01

    Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in a chitosan matrix with varying AgNO3 (1, 3, 5 mM) and chitosan (1, 3%) concentrations via the one-step solution plasma process (SPP). Plasma was discharged for 3 min in the AgNO3 and chitosan solutions using unipolar power at 800 V with a frequency of 30 kHz. Fibrous 3D scaffolds were prepared by lyophilizing the nano-biocomposite solutions, and they were stabilized via cross-linking with UV irradiation. UV-Vis spectroscopy showed strong peaks with maximal absorbance at 415-440 nm, indicating the formation of AgNPs in the chitosan with an increase in peak height as the concentration of the precursor, AgNO3, increased. The chemical association between AgNPs and chitosan was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The scaffolds had a micro-porous structure with pore diameters in the range of 5.8-157.0 μm, and a transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that spherical shaped AgNPs with diameters in the range of 2.5-27.6 nm were well-dispersed in the biocomposites. The nano-biocomposites had a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against various pathogens with minimal inhibition concentrations of 0.68-2.71 and 2.71-10.80 μg mL(-1) for bacteria and fungi, respectively. These are the lowest concentrations achieved by nano-biocomposites reported thus far. The SPP was shown to be a facile, effective, and eco-friendly method of synthesizing nano-biocomposites for biomedical applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Behavior of a nano-particle and a polymer molecule in a nano-scale four-roll mill

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vo, Minh; Papavassiliou, Dimitrios

    2016-11-01

    The four-roll mill device could be used to create a mixed flow from purely extensional stresses to completely rotational through the proper selection of speed and direction of each of the four cylindrical rollers. Considerable research has been done with this device for macroscale rheological studies.. In our study, the dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) method was employed to investigate the behavior of a nano-sphere and a polymer molecule in different conditions within a four-roll mill device. Hydrophilic properties of each roll were generated by adjusting interaction parameters and using bounce back boundary condition at the solid surface. All simulations were run up to 4x106 time steps at room temperature using the open source LAMMPS package. After the flow in the system reached equilibrium, a nano-sphere and then a polymer chain were released at the center of the simulation box. Their trajectories were recorded at different shear rate conditions. The propagation of nanosphere in different rotational flow will be discussed. Additionally, the deformation of polymer chains will be compared to that in a simple shear flow.

  14. Comparison of the tribology performance of nano-diesel soot and graphite particles as lubricant additives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Zu-chuan; Cai, Zhen-bing; Peng, Jin-fang; Zhu, Min-hao

    2016-02-01

    The tribology behavior of exhaust diesel soot as a lubricant additive was investigated and then compared with that of a selection of commercial nano-graphite particles. Specifically, 0.01 wt% particles were dispersed in PAO4 oil with 1 wt% sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) as a dispersing agent, and wear tests based on the ball against plate mode were conducted at various temperatures. Different analytical techniques (e.g. transmission electron, scanning electron and infrared microscopy; energy dispersive x-ray and Raman spectroscopy; and charge measurement) were employed to characterize the chemistry and morphology of the additives and their tribology performance. The oil containing only 0.01 wt% diesel soot clearly improved wear resistance over 60 °C. In particular, at 100 °C the wear rate decreased by approximately 90% compared to the function of base oil. In the same test conditions, diesel soot exhibited better anti-wear performance than nano-graphite at high temperatures. The potential measure showed that the nano-graphite had positive charge and the diesel soot had negative charge. Electrochemical action may play an important role in the lubricant mechanisms of diesel soot and graphite as oil additives.

  15. Surface enrichment of Pt in stable Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles on MgAl 2O 4 spinel in oxidizing atmosphere

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Wei -Zhen; Nie, Lei; Cheng, Yingwen

    With the capability of MgAl 2O 4 spinel {111} nano-facets in stabilizing small Rh, Ir and Pt particles, bimetallic Ir-Pt catalysts on the same support were investigated in this paper, aiming at further lowering the catalyst cost by substituting expensive Pt with cheaper Ir in the bulk. Small Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles (< 2 nm) were successfully stabilized on the spinel {111} nano-facets as expected. Interestingly, methanol oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) rate on the surface Pt atoms increases with oxidizing aging but decreases upon reducing treatment, where Ir is almost inactive under the same reaction conditions. Up to three times enhancement inmore » Pt exposure was achieved when the sample was oxidized at 800 °C in air for 1 week and subsequently reduced by H 2 for 2 h, demonstrating successful surface enrichment of Pt on Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles. Finally, a dynamic stabilization mechanism involving wetting/nucleation seems to be responsible for the evolution of surface compositions upon cyclic oxidizing and reducing thermal treatments.« less

  16. Surface enrichment of Pt in stable Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles on MgAl 2O 4 spinel in oxidizing atmosphere

    DOE PAGES

    Li, Wei -Zhen; Nie, Lei; Cheng, Yingwen; ...

    2017-01-13

    With the capability of MgAl 2O 4 spinel {111} nano-facets in stabilizing small Rh, Ir and Pt particles, bimetallic Ir-Pt catalysts on the same support were investigated in this paper, aiming at further lowering the catalyst cost by substituting expensive Pt with cheaper Ir in the bulk. Small Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles (< 2 nm) were successfully stabilized on the spinel {111} nano-facets as expected. Interestingly, methanol oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) rate on the surface Pt atoms increases with oxidizing aging but decreases upon reducing treatment, where Ir is almost inactive under the same reaction conditions. Up to three times enhancement inmore » Pt exposure was achieved when the sample was oxidized at 800 °C in air for 1 week and subsequently reduced by H 2 for 2 h, demonstrating successful surface enrichment of Pt on Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles. Finally, a dynamic stabilization mechanism involving wetting/nucleation seems to be responsible for the evolution of surface compositions upon cyclic oxidizing and reducing thermal treatments.« less

  17. Micromorphological characterization of zinc/silver particle composite coatings

    PubMed Central

    Méndez, Alia; Reyes, Yolanda; Trejo, Gabriel; StĘpień, Krzysztof

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the three‐dimensional (3D) surface micromorphology of zinc/silver particles (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings with antibacterial activity prepared using an electrodeposition technique. These 3D nanostructures were investigated over square areas of 5 μm × 5 μm by atomic force microscopy (AFM), fractal, and wavelet analysis. The fractal analysis of 3D surface roughness revealed that (Zn/AgPs) composite coatings have fractal geometry. Triangulation method, based on the linear interpolation type, applied for AFM data was employed in order to characterise the surfaces topographically (in amplitude, spatial distribution and pattern of surface characteristics). The surface fractal dimension D f, as well as height values distribution have been determined for the 3D nanostructure surfaces. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:1082–1089, 2015. © 2015 The Authors published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:26500164

  18. Meissner effect measurement of single indium particle using a customized on-chip nano-scale superconducting quantum interference device system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Long; Chen, Lei; Wang, Hao; Liu, Xiaoyu; Wang, Zhen

    2017-04-01

    As many emergent phenomena of superconductivity appear on a smaller scale and at lower dimension, commercial magnetic property measurement systems (MPMSs) no longer provide the sensitivity necessary to study the Meissner effect of small superconductors. The nano-scale superconducting quantum interference device (nano-SQUID) is considered one of the most sensitive magnetic sensors for the magnetic characterization of mesoscopic or microscopic samples. Here, we develop a customized on-chip nano-SQUID measurement system based on a pulsed current biasing method. The noise performance of our system is approximately 4.6 × 10-17 emu/Hz1/2, representing an improvement of 9 orders of magnitude compared with that of a commercial MPMS (~10-8 emu/Hz1/2). Furthermore, we demonstrate the measurement of the Meissner effect of a single indium (In) particle (of 47 μm in diameter) using our on-chip nano-SQUID system. The system enables the observation of the prompt superconducting transition of the Meissner effect of a single In particle, thereby providing more accurate characterization of the critical field Hc and temperature Tc. In addition, the retrapping field Hre as a function of temperature T of single In particle shows disparate behavior from that of a large ensemble.

  19. Coal emissions adverse human health effects associated with ultrafine/nano-particles role and resultant engineering controls.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Marcos L S; Navarro, Orlando G; Crissien, Tito J; Tutikian, Bernardo F; da Boit, Kátia; Teixeira, Elba C; Cabello, Juan J; Agudelo-Castañeda, Dayana M; Silva, Luis F O

    2017-10-01

    There are multiple elements which enable coal geochemistry: (1) boiler and pollution control system design parameters, (2) temperature of flue gas at collection point, (3) feed coal and also other fuels like petroleum coke, tires and biomass geochemistry and (4) fuel feed particle size distribution homogeneity distribution, maintenance of pulverisers, etc. Even though there is a large number of hazardous element pollutants in the coal-processing industry, investigations on micrometer and nanometer-sized particles including their aqueous colloids formation reactions and their behaviour entering the environment are relatively few in numbers. X-ray diffraction (XRD), High Resolution-Transmission Electron microscopy (HR-TEM)/ (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) EDS/ (selected-area diffraction pattern) SAED, Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM)/EDS and granulometric distribution analysis were used as an integrated characterization techniques tool box to determine both geochemistry and nanomineralogy for coal fly ashes (CFAs) from Brazil´s largest coal power plant. Ultrafine/nano-particles size distribution from coal combustion emissions was estimated during the tests. In addition the iron and silicon content was determined as 54.6% of the total 390 different particles observed by electron bean, results aimed that these two particles represent major minerals in the environment particles normally. These data may help in future investigations to asses human health actions related with nano-particles. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Control of Partial Coalescence of Self-Assembled Metal Nano-Particles across Lyotropic Liquid Crystals Templates towards Long Range Meso-Porous Metal Frameworks Design

    PubMed Central

    Dumée, Ludovic F.; Lemoine, Jean-Baptiste; Ancel, Alice; Hameed, Nishar; He, Li; Kong, Lingxue

    2015-01-01

    The formation of purely metallic meso-porous metal thin films by partial interface coalescence of self-assembled metal nano-particles across aqueous solutions of Pluronics triblock lyotropic liquid crystals is demonstrated for the first time. Small angle X-ray scattering was used to study the influence of the thin film composition and processing conditions on the ordered structures. The structural characteristics of the meso-structures formed demonstrated to primarily rely on the lyotropic liquid crystal properties while the nature of the metal nano-particles used as well as the their diameters were found to affect the ordered structure formation. The impact of the annealing temperature on the nano-particle coalescence and efficiency at removing the templating lyotropic liquid crystals was also analysed. It is demonstrated that the lyotropic liquid crystal is rendered slightly less thermally stable, upon mixing with metal nano-particles and that low annealing temperatures are sufficient to form purely metallic frameworks with average pore size distributions smaller than 500 nm and porosity around 45% with potential application in sensing, catalysis, nanoscale heat exchange, and molecular separation. PMID:28347094

  1. A Study on the Plasmonic Properties of Silver Core Gold Shell Nanoparticles: Optical Assessment of the Particle Structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mott, Derrick; Lee, JaeDong; Thi Bich Thuy, Nguyen; Aoki, Yoshiya; Singh, Prerna; Maenosono, Shinya

    2011-06-01

    This paper reports a qualitative comparison between the optical properties of a set of silver core, gold shell nanoparticles with varying composition and structure to those calculated using the Mie solution. To achieve this, silver nanoparticles were synthesized in aqueous phase from a silver hydroxide precursor with sodium acrylate as dual reducing-capping agent. The particles were then coated with a layer of gold with controllable thickness through a reduction-deposition process. The resulting nanoparticles reveal well defined optical properties that make them suitable for comparison to ideal calculated results using the Mie solution. The discussion focuses on the correlation between the synthesized core shell nanoparticles with varying Au shell thickness and the Mie solution results in terms of the optical properties. The results give insight in how to design and synthesize silver core, gold shell nanoparticles with controllable optical properties (e.g., SPR band in terms of intensity and position), and has implications in creating nanoparticle materials to be used as biological probes and sensing elements.

  2. Characterization of engineered nanoparticles in commercially available spray disinfectant products advertised to contain colloidal silver.

    PubMed

    Rogers, Kim R; Navratilova, Jana; Stefaniak, Aleksandr; Bowers, Lauren; Knepp, Alycia K; Al-Abed, Souhail R; Potter, Phillip; Gitipour, Alireza; Radwan, Islam; Nelson, Clay; Bradham, Karen D

    2018-04-01

    Given the potential for human exposure to silver nanoparticles from spray disinfectants and dietary supplements, we characterized the silver-containing nanoparticles in 22 commercial products that advertised the use of silver or colloidal silver as the active ingredient. Characterization parameters included: total silver, fractionated silver (particulate and dissolved), primary particle size distribution, hydrodynamic diameter, particle number, and plasmon resonance absorbance. A high degree of variability between claimed and measured values for total silver was observed. Only 7 of the products showed total silver concentrations within 20% of their nominally reported values. In addition, significant variations in the relative percentages of particulate vs. soluble silver were also measured in many of these products reporting to be colloidal. Primary silver particle size distributions by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed two populations of particles - smaller particles (<5nm) and larger particles between 20 and 40nm. Hydrodynamic diameter measurements using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) correlated well with TEM analysis for the larger particles. Z-average (Z-Avg) values measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS); however, were typically larger than both NTA or TEM particle diameters. Plasmon resonance absorbance signatures (peak absorbance at around 400nm indicative of metallic silver nanoparticles) were only noted in 4 of the 9 yellow-brown colored suspensions. Although the total silver concentrations were variable among products, ranging from 0.54mg/L to 960mg/L, silver containing nanoparticles were identified in all of the product suspensions by TEM. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  3. A possible oriented attachment growth mechanism for silver nanowire formation

    DOE PAGES

    Murph, Simona E. Hunyadi; Murphy, Catherine J.; Leach, Austin; ...

    2015-04-06

    Electron microscopy studies suggest that silver nanowires prepared by an approach reported earlier by us (Caswell, K. K., Bender, C. M., Murphy, C. J. Nano Lett.,2003, 3, 667–669) form through a coarsening process via an oriented attachment mechanism. Initially, silver nucleation centers were produced by chemical reduction of silver ions in boiling water, with sodium citrate and sodium hydroxide as additives in solution. These nucleation centers, with a twinned crystallographic orientation, ultimately merge into fully grown silver nanowires. This is a completely different mechanism from the seed-mediated growth approach, which has also been used to produce silver nanowires. Furthermore, companionmore » molecular dynamics performed with the embedded atom method are in agreement with our experimental data.« less

  4. A possible oriented attachment growth mechanism for silver nanowire formation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Murph, Simona E. Hunyadi; Murphy, Catherine J.; Leach, Austin

    Electron microscopy studies suggest that silver nanowires prepared by an approach reported earlier by us (Caswell, K. K., Bender, C. M., Murphy, C. J. Nano Lett.,2003, 3, 667–669) form through a coarsening process via an oriented attachment mechanism. Initially, silver nucleation centers were produced by chemical reduction of silver ions in boiling water, with sodium citrate and sodium hydroxide as additives in solution. These nucleation centers, with a twinned crystallographic orientation, ultimately merge into fully grown silver nanowires. This is a completely different mechanism from the seed-mediated growth approach, which has also been used to produce silver nanowires. Furthermore, companionmore » molecular dynamics performed with the embedded atom method are in agreement with our experimental data.« less

  5. Nano/microstructure and optical properties of ZnO particles precipitated from zinc acetylacetonate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Petrović, Željka; Ristić, Mira; Musić, Svetozar; Fabián, Martin

    2015-06-01

    The influence of experimental conditions on the nano/microstructure and optical properties of ZnO particles produced by rapid hydrolysis of zinc acetylacetonate, followed by aging of the precipitation system at 160 °C, was investigated. Samples were characterized by XRD, FE scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), FT-IR, UV/Vis/NIR and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies. XRD patterns of all samples were assigned to the hexagonal ZnO phase (wurtzite-type), as well as the corresponding FT-IR spectra. FE-SEM inspection showed a high dependence of the ZnO nano/microstructure on the chemical composition of the reaction mixture and autoclaving time after the rapid hydrolysis of zinc acetylacetonate. Microstructural differences were noticed between C2H5OH/H2O and H2O media, as well as under the influence of NH4OH addition. Measurements of nanocrystallite sizes showed no significant preferential orientation in the (1 0 0) and (0 0 2) directions relative to the (1 0 1) and (1 1 0) directions. Somewhat smaller crystallite sizes were noticed for ZnO samples synthesized by adding the NH4OH solution. Dissolution/recrystallization of ZnO particles played an important role in the formation of different ZnO nano/microstructures. The band gap values for prepared ZnO samples were calculated on the basis of recorded UV/Vis spectra. PL spectra were recorded for ZnO samples in powder form and their suspensions in pure ethanol. Noticed differences are discussed.

  6. Stability of nano-fluids and their use for thermal management of a microprocessor: an experimental and numerical study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shoukat, Ahmad Adnan; Shaban, Muhammad; Israr, Asif; Shah, Owaisur Rahman; Khan, Muhammad Zubair; Anwar, Muhammad

    2018-03-01

    We investigate the heat transfer effect of different types of Nano-fluids on the pin fin heat sinks used in computer's microprocessor. Nano-particles of Aluminum oxide have been used with volumetric concentrations of 0.002% and Silver oxide with volumetric concentrations of 0.001% in the base fluid of deionized water. We have also used Aluminum oxide with ethylene glycol at volumetric concentrations of 0.002%. We report the cooling rates of Nano-fluids for pin-fin heat to cool the microprocessor and compare these with the cooling rate of pure water. We use a microprocessor heat generator in this investigation. The base temperature is obtained using surface heater of power 130 W. The main purpose of this work is to minimize the base temperature, and increase the heat transfer rate of the water block and radiator. The temperature of the heat sink is maintained at 110 °C which is nearly equal to the observed computer microprocessor temperature. We also provide the base temperature at different Reynolds's number using the above mention Nano-fluids with different volumetric concentrations.

  7. Self-illuminating in vivo lymphatic imaging using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer quantum dot nano-particle.

    PubMed

    Kosaka, Nobuyuki; Mitsunaga, Makoto; Bhattacharyya, Sukanta; Miller, Steven C; Choyke, Peter L; Kobayashi, Hisataka

    2011-01-01

    Autofluorescence arising from normal tissues can compromise the sensitivity and specificity of in vivo fluorescence imaging by lowering the target-to-background signal ratio. Since bioluminescence resonance energy transfer quantum dot (BRET-QDot) nano-particles can self-illuminate in near-infrared in the presence of the substrate, coelenterazine, without irradiating excitation lights, imaging using BRET-QDots does not produce any autofluorescence. In this study, we applied this BRET-QDot nano-particle to the in vivo lymphatic imaging in mice in order to compare with BRET, fluorescence or bioluminescence lymphatic imaging. BRET-QDot655, in which QDot655 is contained as a core, was injected at different sites (e.g. chin, ear, forepaws and hind paws) in mice followed by the intravenous coelenterazine injection, and then bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging were serially performed. In all mice, each lymphatic basin was clearly visualized in the BRET imaging with minimal background signals. The BRET signal in the lymph nodes lasted at least 30 min after coelenterazine injections. Furthermore, the BRET signal demonstrated better quantification than the fluorescence signal emitting from QDot655, the core of this BRET particle. These advantages of BRET-QDot allowed us to perform real-time, quantitative lymphatic imaging without image processing. BRET-Qdots have the potential to be a robust nano-material platform for developing optical molecular imaging probes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  8. Self-illuminating in vivo lymphatic imaging using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer quantum dot nano-particle

    PubMed Central

    Kosaka, Nobuyuki; Mitsunaga, Makoto; Bhattacharyya, Sukanta; Miller, Steven C.; Choyke, Peter L.; Kobayashi, Hisataka

    2012-01-01

    Autofluorescence arising from normal tissues can compromise the sensitivity and specificity of in vivo fluorescence imaging by lowering the target-to-background signal ratio. Since bioluminescence resonance energy transfer quantum dot (BRET-QDot) nano-particles can self-illuminate in near-infrared in the presence of the substrate, coelenterazine, without irradiating excitation lights, imaging using BRET-QDots does not produce any autofluorescence. In this study, we applied this BRET-QDot nano-particle to the in vivo lymphatic imaging in mice in order to compare with BRET, fluorescence or bioluminescence lymphatic imaging. BRET-QDot655, in which QDot655 is contained as a core, was injected at different sites (e.g. chin, ear, forepaws and hind paws) in mice followed by the intravenous coelenterazine injection, and then bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging were serially performed. In all mice, each lymphatic basin was clearly visualized in the BRET imaging with minimal background signals. The BRETsignal in the lymph nodes lasted at least 30 min after coelenterazine injections. Furthermore, the BRETsignal demonstrated better quantification than the fluorescence signal emitting from QDot655, the core of this BRET particle. These advantages of BRET-QDot allowed us to perform real-time, quantitative lymphatic imaging without image processing. BRET-Qdots have the potential to be a robust nano-material platform for developing optical molecular imaging probes. PMID:21351373

  9. Annealed silver-island films for applications in metal-enhanced fluorescence: interpretation in terms of radiating plasmons.

    PubMed

    Aslan, Kadir; Leonenko, Zoya; Lakowicz, Joseph R; Geddes, Chris D

    2005-09-01

    The effects of thermally annealed silver island films have been studied with regard to their potential applicability in applications of metal-enhanced fluorescence, an emerging tool in nano-biotechnology. Silver island films were thermally annealed between 75 and 250 degrees C for several hours. As a function of both time and annealing temperature, the surface plasmon band at approximately 420 nm both diminished and was blue shifted. These changes in plasmon resonance have been characterized using both absorption measurements, as well as topographically using Atomic Force Microscopy. Subsequently, the net changes in plasmon absorption are interpreted as the silver island films becoming spherical and growing in height, as well as an increased spacing between the particles. Interestingly, when the annealed surfaces are coated with a fluorescein-labeled protein, significant enhancements in fluorescence are observed, scaling with annealing temperature and time. These observations strongly support our recent hypothesis that the extent of metal-enhanced fluorescence is due to the ability of surface plasmons to radiate coupled fluorophore fluorescence. Given that the extinction spectrum of the silvered films is comprised of both an absorption and scattering component, and that these components are proportional to the diameter cubed and to the sixth power, respectively, then larger structures are expected to have a greater scattering contribution to their extinction spectrum and, therefore, more efficiently radiate coupled fluorophore emission. Subsequently, we have been able to correlate our increases in fluorescence emission with an increased particle size, providing strong experiment evidence for our recently reported metal-enhanced fluorescence, facilitated by radiating plasmons hypothesis.

  10. Silver deposition and tissue staining associated with wound dressings containing silver.

    PubMed

    Walker, Michael; Cochrane, Christine A; Bowler, Philip G; Parsons, David; Bradshaw, Peter

    2006-01-01

    Argyria is the general term used to denote a clinical condition in which excessive administration and deposition of silver causes a permanent irreversible gray-blue discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes. The amount of discoloration usually depends on the route of silver delivery (ie, oral or topical administration) along with the body's ability to absorb and excrete the administered silver compound. Argyria is accepted as a rare dermatosis but once silver particles are deposited, they remain immobile and may accumulate during the aging process. Topical application of silver salts (eg, silver nitrate solution) may lead to transient skin staining. To investigate their potential to cause skin staining, two silver-containing dressings (Hydrofiber and nanocrystalline) were applied to human skin samples taken from electively amputated lower limbs. The potential for skin discoloration was assayed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. When the dressings were hydrated with water, a significantly higher amount of silver was released from the nanocrystalline dressing compared to the Hydrofiber dressing (P <0.005), which resulted in approximately 30 times more silver deposition. In contrast, when saline was used as the hydration medium, the release rates were low for both dressings and not significantly different (silver deposition was minimal). Controlling the amount of silver released from silver-containing dressings should help reduce excessive deposition of silver into wound tissue and minimize skin staining.

  11. Contaminant degradation by irradiated semiconducting silver chloride particles: kinetics and modelling.

    PubMed

    Ma, Tian; Garg, Shikha; Miller, Christopher J; Waite, T David

    2015-05-15

    The kinetics and mechanism of light-mediated formic acid (HCOO(-)) degradation in the presence of semiconducting silver chloride particles are investigated in this study. Our experimental results show that visible-light irradiation of AgCl(s) results in generation of holes and electrons with the photo-generated holes and its initial oxidation product carbonate radical, oxidizing HCOO(-) to form CO2. The HCOO(-) degradation rate increases with increase in silver concentration due to increase in rate of photo-generation of holes while the increase in chloride concentration decreases the degradation rate of HCOO(-) as a result of the scavenging of holes by Cl(-), thereby resulting in decreased holes and carbonate radical concentration. The results obtained indicate that a variety of other solution conditions including dioxygen concentration, bicarbonate concentration and pH influence the availability of holes and hence the HCOO(-) degradation rate in a manner consistent with our understanding of key processes. Based on our experimental results, we have developed a kinetic model capable of predicting AgCl(s)-mediated HCOO(-) photo-degradation over a wide range of conditions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Preparation of hemoglobin-loaded nano-sized particles with porous structure as oxygen carriers.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jian; Liu, Chang-Sheng; Yuan, Yuan; Tao, Xin-Yi; Shan, Xiao-Qian; Sheng, Yan; Wu, Fan

    2007-03-01

    Hb (hemoglobin)-loaded particles (HbP) encapsulated by a biodegradable polymer used as oxygen carrier were prepared. A modified double emulsion and solvent diffusion/evaporation method was adopted. All experiments were performed based on two types of biodegradable polymers, poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(epsilon-caprolactone-ethylene glycol) (PCL-PEG). The biodistribution and the survival time in blood of the particles were investigated in a mouse model. Encapsulation efficiency and pore-connecting efficiency were evaluated by a novel sulfocyanate potassium method. The influence of process parameters on the particle size and pore-connecting efficiency (PCE%) of nanoparticles have been discussed. The prepared conditions: solvent, external aqueous phase, pressure were discussed. The system utilizing dichloromethane (DCM)/ethyl acetate (EA) as a solvent with an unsaturated external aqueous phase yielded the highest encapsulation efficiency (87.35%) with a small mean particle size (153 nm). The formation of porous channels was attributed to the diffusion of solvent. The PCE% was more sensitive to the rate of solvent diffusion that was obviously affected by the preparation temperature. The PCE% reached 87.47% when PCL-PEG was employed at 25 degrees C. P(50) of HbP was 27 mmHg, which does not seem to be greatly affected by the encapsulation procedure. In vivo, following intravenous injection of 6-coumarin labeled HbP, the major organ accumulating Hb-loaded particles was the liver. The half-life of nano-sized PCL HbP was 3.1 times as long as the micro-sized PCL HbP. Also, Nano-sized as well as a PEGylated surface on HbP is beneficial for prolonged blood residence (7.2 fold increase).

  13. Multi-scale analysis of the effect of nano-filler particle diameter on the physical properties of CAD/CAM composite resin blocks.

    PubMed

    Yamaguchi, Satoshi; Inoue, Sayuri; Sakai, Takahiko; Abe, Tomohiro; Kitagawa, Haruaki; Imazato, Satoshi

    2017-05-01

    The objective of this study was to assess the effect of silica nano-filler particle diameters in a computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) composite resin (CR) block on physical properties at the multi-scale in silico. CAD/CAM CR blocks were modeled, consisting of silica nano-filler particles (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 nm) and matrix (Bis-GMA/TEGDMA), with filler volume contents of 55.161%. Calculation of Young's moduli and Poisson's ratios for the block at macro-scale were analyzed by homogenization. Macro-scale CAD/CAM CR blocks (3 × 3 × 3 mm) were modeled and compressive strengths were defined when the fracture loads exceeded 6075 N. MPS values of the nano-scale models were compared by localization analysis. As the filler size decreased, Young's moduli and compressive strength increased, while Poisson's ratios and MPS decreased. All parameters were significantly correlated with the diameters of the filler particles (Pearson's correlation test, r = -0.949, 0.943, -0.951, 0.976, p < 0.05). The in silico multi-scale model established in this study demonstrates that the Young's moduli, Poisson's ratios, and compressive strengths of CAD/CAM CR blocks can be enhanced by loading silica nanofiller particles of smaller diameter. CAD/CAM CR blocks by using smaller silica nano-filler particles have a potential to increase fracture resistance.

  14. Characterization of Electrochemically Generated Silver

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Adam, Niklas; Martinez, James; Carrier, Chris

    2014-01-01

    Silver biocide offers a potential advantage over iodine, the current state of the art in US spacecraft disinfection technology, in that silver can be safely consumed by the crew. Low concentrations of silver (<500 ppb) have been shown to kill bacteria in water systems and keep it safe for potability. Silver does not require hardware to remove it from a water system, and therefore can provide a simpler means for disinfecting water. The Russian segment of the International Space Station has utilized an electrochemically generated silver solution, which is colloidal in nature. To be able to reliably provide a silver biocide to drinking water by electrochemical means would reduce mass required for removing another biocide such as iodine from the water. This would also aid in crew time required to replace iodine removal cartridges. Future long term missions would benefit from electrochemically produced silver as the biocide could be produced on demand and requires only a small concentration to be effective. Since it can also be consumed safely, there is less mass in removal hardware and little consumables required for production. The goal of this project initially is to understand the nature of the electrochemically produced silver, the particle sizes produced by the electrochemical cell and the effect that voltage adjustment has on the particle size. In literature, it has been documented that dissolved oxygen and pH have an effect on the ionization of the electrochemical silver so those parameters would be measured and possibly adjusted to understand their effect on the silver.

  15. Properties of CuInS₂ Nano-Particles on TiO₂ by Spray Pyrolysis for CuInS₂/TiO₂ Composite Solar Cell.

    PubMed

    Park, Gye-Choon; Li, Zhen-Yu; Yang, O-Bong

    2017-04-01

    In this letter, for the absorption layer of a CuInS₂/TiO₂ composite solar cell, I–III–VI2 chalcopyrite semiconductor CuInS₂ nano-particles were deposited by using spray pyrolysis method on TiO2 porous film. Their material characteristics including structural and optical properties of CuInS₂ nano-particles on TiO₂ nanorods were analyzed as a function of its composition ratios of Cu:In:S. Crystalline structure, surface morphology and crystalline size were also investigated by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), and High-Resolution TEM (HRTEM), respectively. On the other hand, optical property was characterized by an UV-Visible Spectrophotometer. As a result, it was found that the size of CuInS₂ nano-particles, which was formed at 300±5 °C, was smaller than 16 nm from HRTEM analyses, and it was identified that the CuInS₂ particle size was increased as increasing the heat-treatment temperature and time. However, as the size of CuInS₂ nano-particle becomes smaller, optical absorption edge of ternary compound film tends to move to the blue wavelength band. It turns out that the optical energy-band gap of the compound films was ranging from 1.48 eV to 1.53 eV.

  16. Non-linear, non-monotonic effect of nano-scale roughness on particle deposition in absence of an energy barrier: Experiments and modeling

    PubMed Central

    Jin, Chao; Glawdel, Tomasz; Ren, Carolyn L.; Emelko, Monica B.

    2015-01-01

    Deposition of colloidal- and nano-scale particles on surfaces is critical to numerous natural and engineered environmental, health, and industrial applications ranging from drinking water treatment to semi-conductor manufacturing. Nano-scale surface roughness-induced hydrodynamic impacts on particle deposition were evaluated in the absence of an energy barrier to deposition in a parallel plate system. A non-linear, non-monotonic relationship between deposition surface roughness and particle deposition flux was observed and a critical roughness size associated with minimum deposition flux or “sag effect” was identified. This effect was more significant for nanoparticles (<1 μm) than for colloids and was numerically simulated using a Convective-Diffusion model and experimentally validated. Inclusion of flow field and hydrodynamic retardation effects explained particle deposition profiles better than when only the Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) force was considered. This work provides 1) a first comprehensive framework for describing the hydrodynamic impacts of nano-scale surface roughness on particle deposition by unifying hydrodynamic forces (using the most current approaches for describing flow field profiles and hydrodynamic retardation effects) with appropriately modified expressions for DLVO interaction energies, and gravity forces in one model and 2) a foundation for further describing the impacts of more complicated scales of deposition surface roughness on particle deposition. PMID:26658159

  17. Non-linear, non-monotonic effect of nano-scale roughness on particle deposition in absence of an energy barrier: Experiments and modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jin, Chao; Glawdel, Tomasz; Ren, Carolyn L.; Emelko, Monica B.

    2015-12-01

    Deposition of colloidal- and nano-scale particles on surfaces is critical to numerous natural and engineered environmental, health, and industrial applications ranging from drinking water treatment to semi-conductor manufacturing. Nano-scale surface roughness-induced hydrodynamic impacts on particle deposition were evaluated in the absence of an energy barrier to deposition in a parallel plate system. A non-linear, non-monotonic relationship between deposition surface roughness and particle deposition flux was observed and a critical roughness size associated with minimum deposition flux or “sag effect” was identified. This effect was more significant for nanoparticles (<1 μm) than for colloids and was numerically simulated using a Convective-Diffusion model and experimentally validated. Inclusion of flow field and hydrodynamic retardation effects explained particle deposition profiles better than when only the Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) force was considered. This work provides 1) a first comprehensive framework for describing the hydrodynamic impacts of nano-scale surface roughness on particle deposition by unifying hydrodynamic forces (using the most current approaches for describing flow field profiles and hydrodynamic retardation effects) with appropriately modified expressions for DLVO interaction energies, and gravity forces in one model and 2) a foundation for further describing the impacts of more complicated scales of deposition surface roughness on particle deposition.

  18. 'Nano-immuno test' for the detection of live Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis bacilli in the milk samples using magnetic nano-particles and chromogen.

    PubMed

    Singh, Manju; Singh, Shoor Vir; Gupta, Saurabh; Chaubey, Kundan Kumar; Stephan, Bjorn John; Sohal, Jagdip Singh; Dutta, Manali

    2018-04-26

    Early rapid detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) bacilli in milk samples is the major challenge since traditional culture method is time consuming and laboratory dependent. We report a simple, sensitive and specific nano-technology based 'Nano-immuno test' capable of detecting viable MAP bacilli in the milk samples within 10 h. Viable MAP bacilli were captured by MAP specific antibody-conjugated magnetic nano-particles using resazurin dye as chromogen. Test was optimized using true culture positive (10-bovine and 12-goats) and true culture negative (16-bovine and 25-goats) raw milk samples. Domestic livestock species in India are endemically infected with MAP. After successful optimization, sensitivity and specificity of the 'nano-immuno test' in goats with respect to milk culture was 91.7% and 96.0%, respectively. Whereas, it was 90.0% (sensitivity) and 92.6% (specificity) with respect to IS900 PCR. In bovine milk samples, sensitivity and specificity of 'nano-immuno test' with respect to milk culture was 90.0% and 93.7%, respectively. However, with respect to IS900 PCR, the sensitivity and specificity was 88.9% and 94.1%, respectively. Test was validated with field raw milk samples (goats-258 and bovine-138) collected from domestic livestock species to detect live/viable MAP bacilli. Of 138 bovine raw milk samples screened by six diagnostic tests, 81 (58.7%) milk samples were positive for MAP infection in one or more than one diagnostic tests. Of 81 (58.7%) positive bovine raw milk samples, only 24 (17.4%) samples were detected positive for the presence of viable MAP bacilli. Of 258 goats raw milk samples screened by six diagnostic tests, 141 (54.6%) were positive for MAP infection in one or more than one test. Of 141 (54.6%) positive raw milk samples from goats, only 48 (34.0%) were detected positive for live MAP bacilli. Simplicity and efficiency of this novel 'nano-immuno test' makes it suitable for wide-scale screening of milk

  19. Effect of nano/micro-Ag compound particles on the bio-corrosion, antibacterial properties and cell biocompatibility of Ti-Ag alloys.

    PubMed

    Chen, Mian; Yang, Lei; Zhang, Lan; Han, Yong; Lu, Zheng; Qin, Gaowu; Zhang, Erlin

    2017-06-01

    In this research, Ti-Ag alloys were prepared by powder metallurgy, casting and heat treatment method in order to investigate the effect of Ag compound particles on the bio-corrosion, the antibacterial property and the cell biocompatibility. Ti-Ag alloys with different sizes of Ag or Ag-compounds particles were successfully prepared: small amount of submicro-scale (100nm) Ti 2 Ag precipitates with solid solution state of Ag, large amount of nano-scale (20-30nm) Ti 2 Ag precipitates with small amount of solid solution state of Ag and micro-scale lamellar Ti 2 Ag phases, and complete solid solution state of Ag. The mechanical tests indicated that both nano/micro-scale Ti 2 Ag phases had a strong dispersion strengthening ability and Ag had a high solid solution strengthening ability. Electrochemical results shown the Ag content and the size of Ag particles had a limited influence on the bio-corrosion resistance although nano-scale Ti 2 Ag precipitates slightly improved corrosion resistance. It was demonstrated that the nano Ag compounds precipitates have a significant influence on the antibacterial properties of Ti-Ag alloys but no effect on the cell biocompatibility. It was thought that both Ag ions release and Ti 2 Ag precipitates contributed to the antibacterial ability, in which nano-scale and homogeneously distributed Ti 2 Ag phases would play a key role in antibacterial process. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Post-adsorption process of Yb phosphate nano-particle formation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, MingYu; Ohnuki, Toshihiko; Tanaka, Kazuya; Kozai, Naofumi; Kamiishi, Eigo; Utsunomiya, Satoshi

    2012-09-01

    In this study, we have investigated the post-adsorption process of ytterbium (Yb) phosphate nano-particle formation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast). The yeast grown in P-rich medium were exposed to 1.44 × 10-4 mol/L Yb(III) solution for 2-120 h, and 2 months at 25 ± 1 °C at an initial pH of 3, 4, or 5, respectively. Ytterbium concentrations in solutions decreased as a function of exposure time. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and synchrotron-based extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analyses revealed that nano-sized blocky Yb phosphate with an amorphous phase formed on the yeast cells surfaces in the solutions with Yb. These nano-sized precipitates that formed on the cell surfaces remained stable even after 2 months of exposure at 25 ± 1 °C around neutral pHs. The EXAFS data revealed that the chemical state of the accumulated Yb on the cell surfaces changed from the adsorption on both phosphate and carboxyl sites at 30 min to Yb phosphate precipitates at 5 days, indicating the Yb-phosphate precipitation as a major post-adsorption process. In addition, the precipitation of Yb phosphate occurred on cell surfaces during 7 days of exposure in Yb-free solution after 2 h of exposure (short-term Yb adsorption) in Yb solution. These results suggest that the released P from the inside of yeast cells reacted with adsorbed Yb on cell surfaces, resulting in the formation of Yb precipitates, even though no P was added to the exposure solution. In an abiotic system, the EXAFS data showed that the speciation of sorbed Yb on the reference materials, carboxymethyl cellulose and Ln resin, did not change even when the Yb was exposed to P solution, without forming Yb phosphate precipitates. This result strongly suggests that the cell surface of the yeast plays an important role in the Yb-phosphate precipitation process, not only as a carrier of the

  1. Directed assembly of colloidal particles for micro/nano photonics (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Yuebing

    2017-02-01

    Bottom-up fabrication of complex structures with chemically synthesized colloidal particles as building blocks pave an efficient and cost-effective way towards micro/nano photonics with unprecedented functionality and tunability. Novel properties can arise from quantum effects of colloidal particles, as well as inter-particle interactions and spatial arrangement in particle assemblies. Herein, I discuss our recent developments and applications of three types of techniques for directed assembly of colloidal particles: moiré nanosphere lithography (MNSL), bubble-pen lithography (BPL), and optothermal tweezers (OTTs). Specifically, MNSL provides an efficient approach towards creating moiré metasurface with tunable and multiband optical responses from visible to mid-infrared regime. Au moiré metasurfaces have been applied for surface-enhanced infrared spectroscopy, optical capture and patterning of bacteria, and photothermal denaturation of proteins. BPL is developed to pattern a variety of colloidal particles on plasmonic substrates and two-dimensional atomic-layer materials in an arbitrary manner. The laser-directed microbubble captures and immobilizes nanoparticles through coordinated actions of Marangoni convection, surface tension, gas pressure, and substrate adhesion. OTTs are developed to create dynamic nanoparticle assemblies at low optical power. Such nanoparticle assemblies have been used for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for molecular analysis in their native environments.

  2. Silver Ink For Jet Printing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vest, R. W.; Singaram, Saraswathi

    1989-01-01

    Metallo-organic ink containing silver (with some bismuth as adhesion agent) applied to printed-circuit boards and pyrolized in air to form electrically conductive patterns. Ink contains no particles of silver, does not have to be mixed during use to maintain homogeneity, and applied to boards by ink-jet printing heads. Consists of silver neodecanoate and bismuth 2-ethylhexanoate dissolved in xylene and/or toluene.

  3. Fabricating the spherical and flake silver powder used for the optoelectronic devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ju, Wei; Ma, Wangjing; Zhang, Fangzhi; Chen, Yixiang; Xie, Jinpeng

    2018-01-01

    The spherical and flake silver powder with different particle size for the optoelectronic devices was partly prepared by using chemical reduction and ball milling method, and charactered by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), laser particle size analyzer and thermo-gravimetric(TG) analyzer. The particle size of three series of spherical silver powder fabricated by chemical reduction is about 1.5μm, 1μm and 0.6μm, respectively; after being mechanical milling, the particle size of flake silver powder with high flaky rate is about 10μm, 6μm and 2μm respectively. Thermo gravimetric (TG) and XRD analyses showed that the silver powders have high purity and crystalline, and then the laser particle size and SEM analyses showed that the silver powders has good uniformity.

  4. Effects of different operating parameters on the particle size of silver chloride nanoparticles prepared in a spinning disk reactor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dabir, Hossein; Davarpanah, Morteza; Ahmadpour, Ali

    2015-07-01

    The aim of this research was to present an experimental method for large-scale production of silver chloride nanoparticles using spinning disk reactor. Silver nitrate and sodium chloride were used as the reactants, and the protecting agent was gelatin. The experiments were carried out in a continuous mode by injecting the reactants onto the surface of the spinning disk, where a chemical precipitation reaction took place to form AgCl particles. The effects of various operating variables, including supersaturation, disk rotational speed, reactants flow rate, disk diameter, and excess ions, on the particle size of products were investigated. In addition, the AgCl nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. According to the results, smaller AgCl particles are obtained under higher supersaturations and also higher disk rotation speeds. Moreover, in the range of our investigation, the use of lower reactants flow rates and larger disk diameter can reduce the particle size of products. The non-stoichiometric condition of reactants has a significant influence on the reduction in particle aggregation. It was also found that by optimizing the operating conditions, uniform AgCl nanoparticles with the mean size of around 37 nm can be produced.

  5. Effect of nano/micro B4C and SiC particles on fracture properties of aluminum 7075 particulate composites under chevron-notch plane strain fracture toughness test

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Morovvati, M. R.; Lalehpour, A.; Esmaeilzare, A.

    2016-12-01

    Reinforcing aluminum with SiC and B4C nano/micro particles can lead to a more efficient material in terms of strength and light weight. The influence of adding these particles to an aluminum 7075 matrix is investigated using chevron-notch fracture toughness test method. The reinforcing factors are type, size (micro/nano), and weight percent of the particles. The fracture parameters are maximum load, notch opening displacement, the work up to fracture and chevron notch plane strain fracture toughness. The findings demonstrate that addition of micro and nano size particles improves the fracture properties; however, increasing the weight percent of the particles leads to increase of fracture properties up to a certain level and after that due to agglomeration of the particles, the improvement does not happen for both particle types and size categories. Agglomeration of particles at higher amounts of reinforcing particles results in improper distribution of particles and reduction in mechanical properties.

  6. Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    EPA announced the release of the final report, Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant Spray. This report represents a case study of engineered nanoscale silver (nano-Ag), focusing on the specific example of nano-Ag as possibly used in disinfectant sprays. This case study is organized around the comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) framework, which structures available information pertaining to the product life cycle, environmental transport and fate, exposure-dose in receptors (i.e., humans, ecological populations, and the environment), and potential impacts in these receptors. The document does not draw conclusions about potential risks. Instead, it is intended to be used as part of a process to identify what is known and unknown about nano-Ag in a selected application. In turn, the external review draft of the document provided a starting point to identify and prioritize possible research directions to support future assessments of nanomaterials. The information presented in the case study and the questions raised in this document are a foundation for a process to determine priorities among various research topics and directions. After that process has been completed, a final chapter will be added to this document to summarize highlights from preceding chapters and the major research issues that have emerged.

  7. Silver (Ag) Transport Mechanisms in TRISO Coated Particles: A Critical Review

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    IJ van Rooyen; ML Dunzik-Gougar; PM van Rooyen

    2014-05-01

    Transport of 110mAg in the intact SiC layer of TRISO coated particles has been studied for approximately 30 years without arriving at a satisfactory explanation of the transport mechanism. In this paper the possible mechanisms postulated in previous experimental studies, both in-reactor and out-of reactor research environment studies are critically reviewed and of particular interest are relevance to very high temperature gas reactor operating and accident conditions. Among the factors thought to influence Ag transport are grain boundary stoichiometry, SiC grain size and shape, the presence of free silicon, nano-cracks, thermal decomposition, palladium attack, transmutation products, layer thinning and coatedmore » particle shape. Additionally new insight to nature and location of fission products has been gained via recent post irradiation electron microscopy examination of TRISO coated particles from the DOE’s fuel development program. The combined effect of critical review and new analyses indicates a direction for investigating possible the Ag transport mechanism including the confidence level with which these mechanisms may be experimentally verified.« less

  8. Silver (Ag) Transport Mechanisms in TRISO coated particles: A Critical Review

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    I J van Rooyen; J H Neethling; J A A Engelbrecht

    2012-10-01

    Transport of 110mAg in the intact SiC layer of TRISO coated particles has been studied for approximately 30 years without arriving at a satisfactory explanation of the transport mechanism. In this paper the possible mechanisms postulated in previous experimental studies, both in-reactor and out-of reactor research environment studies are critically reviewed and of particular interest are relevance to very high temperature gas reactor operating and accident conditions. Among the factors thought to influence Ag transport are grain boundary stoichiometry, SiC grain size and shape, the presence of free silicon, nano-cracks, thermal decomposition, palladium attack, transmutation products, layer thinning and coatedmore » particle shape. Additionally new insight to nature and location of fission products has been gained via recent post irradiation electron microscopy examination of TRISO coated particles from the DOE’s fuel development program. The combined effect of critical review and new analyses indicates a direction for investigating possible the Ag transport mechanism including the confidence level with which these mechanisms may be experimentally verified.« less

  9. Validation of a particle tracking analysis method for the size determination of nano- and microparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kestens, Vikram; Bozatzidis, Vassili; De Temmerman, Pieter-Jan; Ramaye, Yannic; Roebben, Gert

    2017-08-01

    Particle tracking analysis (PTA) is an emerging technique suitable for size analysis of particles with external dimensions in the nano- and sub-micrometre scale range. Only limited attempts have so far been made to investigate and quantify the performance of the PTA method for particle size analysis. This article presents the results of a validation study during which selected colloidal silica and polystyrene latex reference materials with particle sizes in the range of 20 nm to 200 nm were analysed with NS500 and LM10-HSBF NanoSight instruments and video analysis software NTA 2.3 and NTA 3.0. Key performance characteristics such as working range, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, sensitivity, robustness, precision and trueness were examined according to recommendations proposed by EURACHEM. A model for measurement uncertainty estimation following the principles described in ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 was used for quantifying random and systematic variations. For nominal 50 nm and 100 nm polystyrene and a nominal 80 nm silica reference materials, the relative expanded measurement uncertainties for the three measurands of interest, being the mode, median and arithmetic mean of the number-weighted particle size distribution, varied from about 10% to 12%. For the nominal 50 nm polystyrene material, the relative expanded uncertainty of the arithmetic mean of the particle size distributions increased up to 18% which was due to the presence of agglomerates. Data analysis was performed with software NTA 2.3 and NTA 3.0. The latter showed to be superior in terms of sensitivity and resolution.

  10. Photocatalytic reduction of heavy metal ions on derivatized titanium dioxide nano-particle surface studied by XAFS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Lin X.; Rajh, Tijana; Mićić, Olga Wang, Zhiyu; Tiede, David M.; Thurnauer, Marion

    1997-12-01

    Photoreduction of heavy metal ions, Cu 2- and Hg 2+, on TiO 2 nano-particle surfaces, has been investigated by XAFS measurements. The effects of TiO 2 surface modification reagents on the reaction efficiency have been studied. We observed a significant reaction efficiency enhancement when amino acid alanine was added to a mixture of 0.01 M Cu 2+ and TiO 2 nano-particles. Fifty percent of the adsorbed Cu 2+ has been reduced to Cu 0 after 1-h illumination with a UV-enhanced xenon lamp. Photoreduction of Hg 2+ on TiO 2 colloid surfaces was also investigated without and with thiolactic acid (TLA). In this case, the photoreduction efficiency for Hg 2+ was lowered. Structures of metal ion surroundings in various complexes as well as their role in photoreduction of metal ions are discussed.

  11. Rate Dependency of Silver Vanadium Phosphorous Oxide Reduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Po-Jen

    2011-12-01

    The silver vanadium phosphorus oxide (Ag2VO2PO 4) is a high-capacity and good-compatibility material for the cathode in the battery. Due to their innovative properties, they are used as cathode in lithium batteries. Therefore, when the lithium batteries begin to discharge, the anodes of the cell perform an electrochemical oxidation and release electrons. In the mean time, the cathodes in the cells perform the electrochemical reduction and catch the electrons. For reduction of Ag2VO2PO 4, two silver ions (Ag+) catch two electrons to form silver particles, and the vanadium ions (V5+) catch two electrons to form V3+. It means that four electrons will be released by lithium anode. We call this four electrons discharge as 100% discharge. In my most of the projects, the Ag2VO2PO4 material is tested by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to check purity. My study is based on the discharge of batteries, and I focus on the morphology and the intensity of silver particles on the cathode after discharge. Depending on different adjustment of factors, such as discharge time, discharge rate, storage time, storage temperature, I try to investigate the silver intensity, conductivity as a function of DOD (Depth of Discharge). The silver particles could be examined by optical microscope, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Moreover, I do some x-ray diffraction analysis to quantify the silver particles after discharge. Also, I perform magnetic susceptibility measurement to check the mechanism of the reduction of vanadium ions. Under the research on silver ions and vanadium ions, I will know a big frame of reduction process on silver vanadium phosphorous oxide and the time effect on this cathode material.

  12. One-Pot Silver Nanoring Synthesis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Drogat, Nicolas; Granet, Robert; Sol, Vincent; Krausz, Pierre

    2010-03-01

    Silver colloidal nanorings have been synthesized by reducing silver ions with NaBH4 in trisodium citrate buffers. pH increase, by addition of NaOH, was used to speed up reduction reaction. The UV-vis absorption spectra of resulting silver nanorings showed two peaks accounting for transverse and longitudinal surface plasmon resonance, at ≈400 nm, and between 600 and 700 nm, respectively. The shapes of these silver nanoparticles (nanorings) depended on AgNO3/NaBH4 ratio, pH and reaction temperature. Particles were analysed by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. A reaction pathway is proposed to explain silver nanoring formation.

  13. One-pot silver nanoring synthesis.

    PubMed

    Drogat, Nicolas; Granet, Robert; Sol, Vincent; Krausz, Pierre

    2009-12-16

    Silver colloidal nanorings have been synthesized by reducing silver ions with NaBH4 in trisodium citrate buffers. pH increase, by addition of NaOH, was used to speed up reduction reaction. The UV-vis absorption spectra of resulting silver nanorings showed two peaks accounting for transverse and longitudinal surface plasmon resonance, at ≈400 nm, and between 600 and 700 nm, respectively. The shapes of these silver nanoparticles (nanorings) depended on AgNO3/NaBH4 ratio, pH and reaction temperature. Particles were analysed by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. A reaction pathway is proposed to explain silver nanoring formation.

  14. One-Pot Silver Nanoring Synthesis

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Silver colloidal nanorings have been synthesized by reducing silver ions with NaBH4 in trisodium citrate buffers. pH increase, by addition of NaOH, was used to speed up reduction reaction. The UV–vis absorption spectra of resulting silver nanorings showed two peaks accounting for transverse and longitudinal surface plasmon resonance, at ≈400 nm, and between 600 and 700 nm, respectively. The shapes of these silver nanoparticles (nanorings) depended on AgNO3/NaBH4 ratio, pH and reaction temperature. Particles were analysed by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. A reaction pathway is proposed to explain silver nanoring formation. PMID:20672109

  15. Biological and nano-indentation properties of polybenzoxazine-based composites reinforced with zirconia particles as a novel biomaterial.

    PubMed

    Lotfi, L; Javadpour, J; Naimi-Jamal, M R

    2018-01-01

    The biological and mechanical properties of substances are relevant to their application as biomaterials and there are many efforts to enhance biocompatibility and mechanical properties of bio-medical materials. In this study, to achieve a low rate of shrinkage during polymerization, good mechanical properties, and excellent biocompatibility, benzoxazine based composites were synthesized. Benzoxazine monomer was synthesized using a solventless method. FTIR and DSC analysis were carried out to determine the appropriate polymerization temperature. The low viscosity of the benzoxazine monomer at 70°C attract us to use in situ polymerization after high speed ball milling of the benzoxazine and it mixture with different weight fractions of zirconia particles. Dispersion and adhesion between the ceramic and polymer components were evaluate by SEM. To evaluate the biological properties and toxicity of the polybenzoxazine-based composite samples reinforced with zirconia particles, 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was conducted. The micromechanical properties of each composite were evaluated by more than 20 nanoindentation tests and 3 nanoscratching tests. Surface topography of scratched regions was investigated using Atomic Force Microscopy. Shrinkage was simulated by Materials Studio software. SEM images showed good dispersion and adhesion between the ceramic and polymer components. Biocompatibility assay showed excellent in vitro biocompatibility. Nano-indentation force-displacement curves showed matrix, reinforcement and interphase regions in specimens and excellent homogeneity in mechanical properties. The nanoindentation results showed that the addition of zirconia particles to the polybenzoxazine matrix increased the modulus and hardness of the neat polybenzoxazine; however, by adding more than an optimum level of reinforcement particles, the mechanical properties decreased due to the agglomeration of reinforcement particles and

  16. NanoParticle Ontology for Cancer Nanotechnology Research

    PubMed Central

    Thomas, Dennis G.; Pappu, Rohit V.; Baker, Nathan A.

    2010-01-01

    Data generated from cancer nanotechnology research are so diverse and large in volume that it is difficult to share and efficiently use them without informatics tools. In particular, ontologies that provide a unifying knowledge framework for annotating the data are required to facilitate the semantic integration, knowledge-based searching, unambiguous interpretation, mining and inferencing of the data using informatics methods. In this paper, we discuss the design and development of NanoParticle Ontology (NPO), which is developed within the framework of the Basic Formal Ontology (BFO), and implemented in the Ontology Web Language (OWL) using well-defined ontology design principles. The NPO was developed to represent knowledge underlying the preparation, chemical composition, and characterization of nanomaterials involved in cancer research. Public releases of the NPO are available through BioPortal website, maintained by the National Center for Biomedical Ontology. Mechanisms for editorial and governance processes are being developed for the maintenance, review, and growth of the NPO. PMID:20211274

  17. Elemental selenium particles at nano-size (Nano-Se) are more toxic to Medaka (Oryzias latipes) as a consequence of hyper-accumulation of selenium: a comparison with sodium selenite.

    PubMed

    Li, Hongcheng; Zhang, Jinsong; Wang, Thanh; Luo, Wenru; Zhou, Qunfang; Jiang, Guibin

    2008-09-29

    Recent studies have shown that elemental selenium particles at nano-size (Nano-Se) exhibited comparable bioavailability and less toxicity in mice and rats when compared to sodium selenite, selenomethinine and methylselenocysteine. However, little is known about the toxicity profile of Nano-Se in aquatic animals. In the present study, toxicities of Nano-Se and selenite in selenium-sufficient Medaka fish were compared. Selenium bioaccumulation and subsequent clearance in fish livers, gills, muscles and whole bodies were examined after 10 days of exposure to Nano-Se and selenite (100 microg Se/L) and again after 7 days of depuration. Both forms of selenium exposure effectively increased selenium concentrations in the investigated tissues. Surprisingly, Nano-Se was found to be more hyper-accumulated in the liver compared to selenite with differences as high as sixfold. Selenium clearance of both Nano-Se and selenite occurred at similar ratios in whole bodies and muscles but was not rapidly cleared from livers and gills. Nano-Se exhibited strong toxicity for Medaka with an approximately fivefold difference in terms of LC(50) compared to selenite. Nano-Se also caused larger effects on oxidative stress, most likely due to more hyper-accumulation of selenium in liver. The present study suggests that toxicity of nanoparticles can largely vary between different species and concludes that the evaluation of nanotoxicology should be carried out on a case-by-case basis.

  18. Thermal annealing behavior of nano-size metal-oxide particles synthesized by ion implantation in Fe-Cr alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, C.; Gentils, A.; Ribis, J.; Borodin, V. A.; Descoins, M.; Mangelinck, D.; Dalle, F.; Arnal, B.; Delauche, L.

    2017-05-01

    Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steels are promising structural materials for the next generation nuclear reactors, as well as fusion facilities. The detailed understanding of the mechanisms involved in the precipitation of nano-oxides during ODS steel production would strongly contribute to the improvement of the mechanical properties and the optimization of manufacturing of ODS steels, with a potentially strong economic impact for their industrialization. A useful tool for the experimental study of nano-oxide precipitation is ion implantation, a technique that is widely used to synthesize precipitate nanostructures in well-controlled conditions. Earlier, we have demonstrated the feasibility of synthesizing aluminum-oxide particles in the high purity Fe-10Cr alloy by consecutive implantation with Al and O ions at room temperature. This paper describes the effects of high-temperature annealing after the ion implantation stage on the development of the aluminum based oxide nanoparticle system. Using transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography experiments, we demonstrate that post-implantation heat treatment induces the growth of the nano-sized oxides in the implanted region and nucleation of new oxide precipitates behind the implantation zone as a result of the diffusion driven broadening of implant profiles. A tentative scenario for the development of metal-oxide nano-particles at both ion implantation and heat treatment stages is suggested based on the experimental observations.

  19. Room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite for the flexible transparent bottom electrode of perovskite solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Haifei; Sun, Jingsong; Zhang, Hong; Lu, Shunmian; Choy, Wallace C. H.

    2016-03-01

    The exploration of low-temperature and solution-processed charge transporting and collecting layers can promote the development of low-cost and large-scale perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) through an all solution process. Here, we propose a room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite composed of a silver nano-network and graphene oxide (GO) flawless film for the transparent bottom electrode of a PVSC. Our experimental results show that the amount of GO flakes play a critical role in forming the flawless anti-corrosive barrier in the silver nano-network through a self-assembly approach under ambient atmosphere, which can effectively prevent the penetration of liquid or gaseous halides and their corrosion against the silver nano-network underneath. Importantly, we simultaneously achieve good work function alignment and surface wetting properties for a practical bottom electrode by controlling the degree of reduction of GO flakes. Finally, flexible PVSC adopting the room-temperature and solution-processed nano-composite as the flexible transparent bottom electrode has been demonstrated on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. As a consequence, the demonstration of our room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free flexible transparent bottom electrode will contribute to the emerging large-area flexible PVSC technologies.The exploration of low-temperature and solution-processed charge transporting and collecting layers can promote the development of low-cost and large-scale perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) through an all solution process. Here, we propose a room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite composed of a silver nano-network and graphene oxide (GO) flawless film for the transparent bottom electrode of a PVSC. Our experimental results show that the amount of GO flakes play a critical role in forming the flawless anti-corrosive barrier in the silver nano-network through a self

  20. Kinetic modeling of the formation and growth of inorganic nano-particles during pulverized coal char combustion in O 2/N 2 and O 2/CO 2 atmospheres

    DOE PAGES

    Shaddix, Christopher R.; Niu, Yanqing; Hui, Shi'en; ...

    2016-08-01

    In this formation of nano-particles during coal char combustion, the vaporization of inorganic components in char and the subsequent homogeneous particle nucleation, heterogeneous condensation, coagulation, and coalescence play decisive roles. Furthermore, conventional measurements cannot provide detailed information on the dynamics of nano-particle formation and evolution, In this study, a sophisticated intrinsic char kinetics model that considers ash effects (including ash film formation, ash dilution, and ash vaporization acting in tandem), both oxidation and gasification by CO 2 and H 2O, homogeneous particle nucleation, heterogeneous vapor condensation, coagulation, and and coalescence mechanisms is developed and used to compare the temporal evolutionmore » of the number and size of nano-particles during coal char particle combustion as a function of char particle size, ash content, and oxygen content in O 2/N 2 and O 2/CO 2 atmospheres .« less

  1. Kinetic modeling of the formation and growth of inorganic nano-particles during pulverized coal char combustion in O 2/N 2 and O 2/CO 2 atmospheres

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shaddix, Christopher R.; Niu, Yanqing; Hui, Shi'en

    In this formation of nano-particles during coal char combustion, the vaporization of inorganic components in char and the subsequent homogeneous particle nucleation, heterogeneous condensation, coagulation, and coalescence play decisive roles. Furthermore, conventional measurements cannot provide detailed information on the dynamics of nano-particle formation and evolution, In this study, a sophisticated intrinsic char kinetics model that considers ash effects (including ash film formation, ash dilution, and ash vaporization acting in tandem), both oxidation and gasification by CO 2 and H 2O, homogeneous particle nucleation, heterogeneous vapor condensation, coagulation, and and coalescence mechanisms is developed and used to compare the temporal evolutionmore » of the number and size of nano-particles during coal char particle combustion as a function of char particle size, ash content, and oxygen content in O 2/N 2 and O 2/CO 2 atmospheres .« less

  2. Imaging of Biological Cells Using Luminescent Silver Nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kravets, Vira; Almemar, Zamavang; Jiang, Ke; Culhane, Kyle; Machado, Rosa; Hagen, Guy; Kotko, Andriy; Dmytruk, Igor; Spendier, Kathrin; Pinchuk, Anatoliy

    2016-01-01

    The application of luminescent silver nanoparticles as imaging agents for neural stem and rat basophilic leukemia cells was demonstrated. The experimental size dependence of the extinction and emission spectra for silver nanoparticles were also studied. The nanoparticles were functionalized with fluorescent glycine dimers. Spectral position of the resonance extinction and photoluminescence emission for particles with average diameters ranging from 9 to 32 nm were examined. As the particle size increased, the spectral peaks for both extinction and the intrinsic emission of silver nanoparticles shifted to the red end of the spectrum. The intrinsic photoluminescence of the particles was orders of magnitude weaker and was spectrally separated from the photoluminescence of the glycine dimer ligands. The spectral position of the ligand emission was independent of the particle size; however, the quantum yield of the nanoparticle-ligand system was size-dependent. This was attributed to the enhancement of the ligand's emission caused by the local electric field strength's dependence on the particle size. The maximum quantum yield determined for the nanoparticle-ligand complex was (5.2 ± 0.1) %. The nanoparticles were able to penetrate cell membranes of rat basophilic leukemia and neural stem cells fixed with paraformaldehyde. Additionally, toxicity studies were performed. It was found that towards rat basophilic leukemia cells, luminescent silver nanoparticles had a toxic effect in the silver atom concentration range of 10-100 μM.

  3. Fiber Bragg grating filter using evaporated induced self assembly of silica nano particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hammarling, Krister; Zhang, Renyung; Manuilskiy, Anatoliy; Nilsson, Hans-Erik

    2014-03-01

    In the present work we conduct a study of fiber filters produced by evaporation of silica particles upon a MM-fiber core. A band filter was designed and theoretically verified using a 2D Comsol simulation model of a 3D problem, and calculated in the frequency domain in respect to refractive index. The fiber filters were fabricated by stripping and chemically etching the middle part of an MM-fiber until the core was exposed. A mono layer of silica nano particles were evaporated on the core using an Evaporation Induced Self-Assembly (EISA) method. The experimental results indicated a broader bandwidth than indicated by the simulations which can be explained by the mismatch in the particle size distributions, uneven particle packing and finally by effects from multiple mode angles. Thus, there are several closely connected Bragg wavelengths that build up the broader bandwidth. The experimental part shows that it is possible by narrowing the particle size distributing and better control of the particle packing, the filter effectiveness can be greatly improved.

  4. Mechanochemical mechanism for reaction of aluminium nano- and micrometre-scale particles.

    PubMed

    Levitas, Valery I

    2013-11-28

    A recently suggested melt-dispersion mechanism (MDM) for fast reaction of aluminium (Al) nano- and a few micrometre-scale particles during fast heating is reviewed. Volume expansion of 6% during Al melting produces pressure of several GPa in a core and tensile hoop stresses of 10 GPa in an oxide shell. Such stresses cause dynamic fracture and spallation of the shell. After spallation, an unloading wave propagates to the centre of the particle and creates a tensile pressure of 3-8 GPa. Such a tensile pressure exceeds the cavitation strength of liquid Al and disperses the melt into small, bare clusters (fragments) that fly at a high velocity. Reaction of the clusters is not limited by diffusion through a pre-existing oxide shell. Some theoretical and experimental results related to the MDM are presented. Various theoretical predictions based on the MDM are in good qualitative and quantitative agreement with experiments, which resolves some basic puzzles in combustion of Al particles. Methods to control and improve reactivity of Al particles are formulated, which are exactly opposite to the current trends based on diffusion mechanism. Some of these suggestions have experimental confirmation.

  5. Biomineralization of hydroxyapatite in silver ion-exchanged nanocrystalline ZSM-5 zeolite using simulated body fluid.

    PubMed

    Kaur, Balwinder; Srivastava, Rajendra; Satpati, Biswarup; Kondepudi, Kanthi Kiran; Bishnoi, Mahendra

    2015-11-01

    Silver ion-exchanged nanocrystalline zeolite (Ag-Nano-ZSM-5) and silver ion-exchanged conventional zeolite (Ag-ZSM-5) were synthesized. Zeolites were incubated in simulated body fluid at 310K for different time periods to grow hydroxyapatite in their matrixes. Significant large amount of hydroxyapatite was grown in Ag-Nano-ZSM-5 matrix after incubation in simulated body fluid when compared to Ag-ZSM-5. The resultant material was characterized using X-ray diffraction, N2-adsorption, scanning/transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and inductively coupled plasma analysis. Mechanical properties such as compressive modulus, compressive strength, and strain at failure of the parent materials were evaluated. Biocompatibility assays suggested that Ag-Nano-ZSM-5 and hydroxyapatite grown in Ag-Nano-ZSM-5 were compatible and did not impose any toxicity to RAW 264.7 cells macrophase and Caco2 cells suggesting considerable potential for biomedical applications such as bone implants. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Counterion-enhanced cyanine dye loading into lipid nano-droplets for single-particle tracking in zebrafish.

    PubMed

    Kilin, Vasyl N; Anton, Halina; Anton, Nicolas; Steed, Emily; Vermot, Julien; Vandamme, Thierry F; Mely, Yves; Klymchenko, Andrey S

    2014-06-01

    Superior brightness of fluorescent nanoparticles places them far ahead of the classical fluorescent dyes in the field of biological imaging. However, for in vivo applications, inorganic nanoparticles, such as quantum dots, are limited due to the lack of biodegradability. Nano-emulsions encapsulating high concentrations of organic dyes are an attractive alternative, but classical fluorescent dyes are inconvenient due to their poor solubility in the oil and their tendency to form non-fluorescent aggregates. This problem was solved here for a cationic cyanine dye (DiI) by substituting its perchlorate counterion for a bulky and hydrophobic tetraphenylborate. This new dye salt, due to its exceptional oil solubility, could be loaded at 8 wt% concentration into nano-droplets of controlled size in the range 30-90 nm. Our 90 nm droplets, which contained >10,000 cyanine molecules, were >100-fold brighter than quantum dots. This extreme brightness allowed, for the first time, single-particle tracking in the blood flow of live zebrafish embryo, revealing both the slow and fast phases of the cardiac cycle. These nano-droplets showed minimal cytotoxicity in cell culture and in the zebrafish embryo. The concept of counterion-based dye loading provides a new effective route to ultra-bright lipid nanoparticles, which enables tracking single particles in live animals, a new dimension of in vivo imaging. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Impact of Nano Hydroxyapatite, Nano Silver Fluoride and Sodium Fluoride Varnish on Primary Teeth Enamel Remineralization: An In Vitro Study

    PubMed Central

    Nozari, Ali; Ajami, Shabnam; Rafiei, Azade

    2017-01-01

    Introduction Dental caries is still prevailing worldwide, although different anti caries products have been introduced. Each remineralizing agent has its own shortcomings. Therefore, looking for new agents to have benefits of previous ones with lesser side effects is worthwhile. Aim To determine the remineralization ability of NaF varnish, nano-Hydroxyapatite Serum (n-HAP) and Nano Silver Fluoride (NSF) on enamel of primary anterior teeth. Materials and Methods Incipient caries were induced in primary sound anterior teeth by storing each specimen in demineralization solution for 72 hours. Then they were randomly divided into four groups of 15 samples each: (1) NaF varnish; (2) n-HAP repairing serum; (3) NSF and (4) no treatment (control). Surface Microhardness (SMH) was assessed with Vickers micro hardness tester before and after demineralization and after 10 days of pH-cycling. A total of 12 random specimens from groups 1 to 4 (3 random samples of each group) were examined by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The SMH values were analysed with one-way and repeated measures ANOVA. Level of significance was set at p=0.05. Results Post lesion SMH values significantly decreased in all groups (p<0.001). Post treatment SMH values significantly increased in comparison to post lesion ones (p<0.001) except for control group which was not different statistically (p=0.86). The highest SMH values were observed in NSF group (mean 222.90 ± 28.79). Statistically significant differences were shown between all groups (p<0.05). However, NaF varnish and n-HAP groups were not statistically different (p=0.165). AFM images demonstrated protective layers in all treated groups. Conclusion The results of this in vitro study suggest that NSF could have the greatest remineralization efficacy. NaF varnish and n-HAP serum were similar in remineralizing initial caries. Future clinical studies are recommended for selection of the most appropriate remineralizing agent in primary teeth. PMID

  8. Sedimentation field flow fractionation and optical absorption spectroscopy for a quantitative size characterization of silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Contado, Catia; Argazzi, Roberto; Amendola, Vincenzo

    2016-11-04

    Many advanced industrial and biomedical applications that use silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), require that particles are not only nano-sized, but also well dispersed, not aggregated and not agglomerated. This study presents two methods able to give rapidly sizes of monodispersed AgNPs suspensions in the dimensional range of 20-100nm. The first method, based on the application of Mie's theory, determines the particle sizes from the values of the surface plasmon resonance wavelength (SPR MAX ), read from the optical absorption spectra, recorded between 190nm and 800nm. The computed sizes were compared with those determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) and resulted in agreement with the nominal values in a range between 13% (for 20nm NPs) and 1% (for 100nm NPs), The second method is based on the masterly combination of the Sedimentation Field Flow Fractionation (SdFFF - now sold as Centrifugal FFF-CFFF) and the Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (OAS) techniques to accomplish sizes and quantitative particle size distributions for monodispersed, non-aggregated AgNPs suspensions. The SdFFF separation abilities, well exploited to size NPs, greatly benefits from the application of Mie's theory to the UV-vis signal elaboration, producing quantitative mass-based particle size distributions, from which trusted number-sized particle size distributions can be derived. The silver mass distributions were verified and supported by detecting off-line the Ag concentration with the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles in melts of amphiphilic polyesters

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vasylyev, S.; Damm, C.; Segets, D.; Hanisch, M.; Taccardi, N.; Wasserscheid, P.; Peukert, W.

    2013-03-01

    The current work presents a one-step procedure for the synthesis of amphiphilic silver nanoparticles suitable for production of silver-filled polymeric materials. This solvent free synthesis via reduction of Tollens’ reagent as silver precursor in melts of amphiphilic polyesters consisting of hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) blocks and hydrophobic alkyl chains allows the production of silver nanoparticles without any by-product formation. This makes them especially interesting for the production of medical devices with antimicrobial properties. In this article the influences of the chain length of the hydrophobic block in the amphiphilic polyesters and the process temperature on the particle size distribution (PSD) and the stability of the particles against agglomeration are discussed. According to the results of spectroscopic and viscosimetric investigations the silver precursor is reduced to elemental silver nanoparticles by a single electron transfer process from the poly(ethylene glycol) chain to the silver ion.

  10. Impact of chlorination on silver elution from ceramic water filters.

    PubMed

    Lyon-Marion, Bonnie A; Mittelman, Anjuliee M; Rayner, Justine; Lantagne, Daniele S; Pennell, Kurt D

    2018-06-05

    Applying silver nanoparticles (nAg) or silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ) to ceramic water filters improves microbiological efficacy, reduces biofilm formation, and protects stored water from recontamination. A challenge in ceramic filter production is adding sufficient silver to achieve these goals without exceeding the maximum recommended silver concentration in drinking water. Silver release is affected by silver type, application method, and influent water chemistry. Despite a lack of data, there is an assumption that chlorinated water should not be used as influent water because it may increase silver elution. Thus, the objective of this work was to systematically evaluate the impact of chlorinated water (0-4 mg/L free chlorine residual, FCR) on silver release from ceramic filter disks painted with casein-coated nAg, painted with AgNO 3 , or containing fired-in nAg over a range of ionic strength (IS = 0-10 mM as NaNO 3 ) in the presence or absence of natural organic matter (NOM). Influent deionized water containing chlorine increased silver release 2-5-fold compared to controls. However, this effect of chlorine was mitigated at higher IS (≥1 mM) or in the presence of NOM (3 mg C/L). For filter disks painted with nAg or AgNO 3 , silver release increased with increasing IS (with or without chlorine), and effluent concentrations remained above the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 0.1 mg/L even after 30 h (80 pore volumes, PVs) of flow with a background solution of 10 mM NaNO 3 . Silver speciation (nAg vs. Ag + ) was monitored in effluent samples from painted or fired-in nAg filter disks. Results indicated that in general, greater than 90% of the eluted silver was due to Ag + dissolution rather than nAg release. Additionally, a filter disk prepared with fired-in nAg exhibited a lower % released in the nanoparticle form (nAg = 5% of total Ag in effluent) compared to painted on nAg (nAg = 14% of total Ag in effluent). The findings of

  11. Temperature dependent and applied field strength dependent magnetic study of cobalt nickel ferrite nano particles: Synthesized by an environmentally benign method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sontu, Uday Bhasker; G, Narsinga Rao; Chou, F. C.; M, V. Ramana Reddy

    2018-04-01

    Spinel ferrites have come a long way in their versatile applications. The ever growing applications of these materials demand detailed study of material properties and environmental considerations in their synthesis. In this article, we report the effect of temperature and applied magnetic field strength on the magnetic behavior of the cobalt nickel ferrite nano powder samples. Basic structural properties of spinel ferrite nano particles, that are synthesized by an environmentally benign method of auto combustion, are characterized through XRD, TEM, RAMAN spectroscopy. Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) is done to understand the nickel substitution effect on the optical properties of cobalt ferrite nano particles. Thermo magnetic studies using SQUID in the temperature range 5 K to 400 K and room temperature (300 K) VSM studies are performed on these samples. Fields of 0Oe (no applied field: ZF), 1 kOe (for ZFC and FC curves), 5 kOe (0.5 T), 50 kOe (5T) (for M-H loop study) are used to study the magnetic behavior of these nano particles. The XRD,TEM analysis suggest 40 nm crystallites that show changes in the cation distribution and phase changes in the spinel structure with nickel substitution. Raman micrographs support phase purity changes and cation redistributions with nickel substitution. Diffuse reflectance study on powder samples suggests two band gap values for nickel rich compounds. The Magnetic study of these sample nano particles show varied magnetic properties from that of hard magnetic, positive multi axial anisotropy and single-magnetic-domain structures at 5 K temperature to soft magnetic core shell like structures at 300 K temperature. Nickel substitution effect is non monotonous. Blocking temperature of all the samples is found to be higher than the values suggested in the literature.

  12. Detection of triglyceride using an iridium nano-particle catalyst based amperometric biosensor.

    PubMed

    Liao, Wei-Yin; Liu, Chung-Chiun; Chou, Tse-Chuan

    2008-12-01

    The detection and quantification of triglyceride (TG) using an iridium nano-particle modified carbon based biosensor was successfully carried out in this study. The detection procedures were based on the electrochemical detection of enzymatically produced NADH. TG was hydrolyzed by lipase and the glycerol produced was catalytically oxidized by NAD-dependent glycerol dehydrogenase producing NADH in a solution containing NAD(+). Glyceryl tributyrate, a short chain triglyceride, was chosen as the substrate for the evaluation of this TG biosensor in bovine serum and human serum. A linear response to glyceryl tributyrate in the concentration range of 0 to 10 mM and a sensitivity of 7.5 nA mM(-1) in bovine serum and 7.0 nA mM(-1) in human serum were observed experimentally. The potential interference of species such as uric acid (UA) and ascorbic acid (AA) was assessed. The incorporation of a selected surfactant and an increase in the incubation temperature appeared to enhance the performance of this biosensor. The conditions for the determination of TG levels in bovine serum using this biosensor were optimized, with sunflower seed oil being used as an analyte to simulate the detection of TG in blood. The experimental results demonstrated that this iridium nano-particle modified working electrode based biosensor provided a relatively simple means for the accurate determination of TG in serum.

  13. Elucidation of the mechanisms of action of Bacteriophage K/nano-emulsion formulations against S. aureus via measurement of particle size and zeta potential.

    PubMed

    Esteban, Patricia Perez; Jenkins, A Toby A; Arnot, Tom C

    2016-03-01

    In earlier work we have demonstrated the effect that nano-emulsions have on bacterial growth, and most importantly the enhanced bacteriophage infectivity against Staphylococcus aureus in planktonic culture when phage are carried in nano-emulsions. However, the mechanisms of enhancement of the bacteriophage killing effect are not specifically understood. This work focuses on the investigation of the possible interactions between emulsion droplets and bacterial cells, between emulsion droplets and bacteriophages, and finally interactions between all three components: nano-emulsion droplets, bacteria, and bacteriophages. The first approach consists of simple calculations to determine the spatial distribution of the components, based on measurements of particle size. It was found that nano-emulsion droplets are much more numerous than bacteria or bacteriophage, and due to their size and surface area they must be covering the surface of both cells and bacteriophage particles. Stabilisation of bacteriophages due to electrostatic forces and interaction with nano-emulsion droplets is suspected, since bacteriophages may be protected against inactivation due to 'charge shielding'. Zeta potential was measured for the individual components in the system, and for all of them combined. It was concluded that the presence of nano-emulsions could be reducing electrostatic repulsion between bacterial cells and bacteriophage, both of which are very negatively 'charged'. Moreover, nano-emulsions lead to more favourable interaction between bacteriophages and bacteria, enhancing the anti-microbial or killing effect. These findings are relevant since the physicochemical properties of nano-emulsions (i.e. particle size distribution and zeta potential) are key in determining the efficacy of the formulation against infection in the context of responsive burn wound dressings-which is the main target for this work. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Effect of Gold on the Microstructural Evolution and Integrity of a Sintered Silver Joint

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muralidharan, Govindarajan; Leonard, Donovan N.; Meyer, Harry M.

    2017-07-01

    There is a need for next-generation, high-performance power electronic packages and systems employing wide-bandgap devices to operate at high temperatures in automotive and electric grid applications. Sintered silver joints are currently being evaluated as an alternative to Pb-free solder joints. Of particular interest is the development of joints based on silver paste consisting of nano- or micron-scale particles that can be processed without application of external pressure. The microstructural evolution at the interface of a pressureless-sintered silver joint formed between a SiC die with Ti/Ni/Au metallization and an active metal brazed (AMB) substrate with Ag metallization at 250°C has been evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray microanalysis, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Results from focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sections show that, during sintering, pores in the sintered region near to the Au layer tend to be narrow and elongated with long axis oriented parallel to the interface. Further densification results in formation of many small, relatively equiaxed pores aligned parallel to the interface, creating a path for easy crack propagation. X-ray microanalysis results confirm interdiffusion between Au and Ag and that a region with poor mechanical strength is formed at the edge of this region of interdiffusion.

  15. Bioconjugated nano-bactericidal complex for potent activity against human and phytopathogens with concern of global drug resistant crisis.

    PubMed

    Syed, Baker; Nagendra Prasad, M N; Mohan Kumar, K; Satish, S

    2018-10-01

    The present study emphasizes the need for novel antimicrobial agents to combat the global drug resistant crisis. The development of novel nanomaterials is reported to be of the alternative tool to combat drug resistant pathogens. In present investigation, bioconjugated nano-complex was developed from secondary metabolite secreted from endosymbiont. The endosymbiont capable of secreting antimicrobial metabolite was subjected to fermentation and the culture supernatant was assessed for purification of antimicrobial metabolite via bio-assay guided fraction techniques such as thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and column chromatography. The metabolite was characterized as 2,4-Diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4 DAPG) which was used to develop bioconjugated nano-complex by treating with 1 mM silver nitrate under optimized conditions. The purified metabolite 2,4 DAPG reduced silver nitrate to form bioconjugated nano-complex to form association with silver nanoparticles. The oxidized form of DAPG consists of four hard ligands that can conjugate on to the surface of silver nanoparticles cluster. The bioconjugation was confirmed with UV-visible spectroscopy which displayed the shift and shoulder peak in the absorbance spectra. This biomolecular interaction was further determined by the Fourier-transform spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses which displayed different signals ascertaining the molecular binding of 2,4,DAPG with silver nanoparticles. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed the cluster formation due to bioconjugation. The XRD analysis revealed the crystalline nature of nano-complex with the characteristic peaks indexed to Bragg's reflection occurring at 2θ angle which indicated the (111), (200), (220) and (311) planes. The activity of bioconjugated nano-complex was tested against 12 significant human and phytopathogens. Among all the test pathogens, Shigella flexneri (MTCC

  16. Green biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Althaea officinalis radix hydroalcoholic extract.

    PubMed

    Korbekandi, Hassan; Asghari, Gholamreza; Chitsazi, Mohammad Reza; Bahri Najafi, Rahim; Badii, Akbar; Iravani, Siavash

    2016-01-01

    The objectives were to study the potential of Althaea officinalis radix in production of silver NPs, and the effect of the extract ethanol concentration on the produced NPs. Seventy and ninety-six percent hydroalcoholic extracts were prepared by percolation of the plant powder. The extract was concentrated by rotary evaporator and then freeze-dried. Silver ions were determined using atomic absorption analysis. The NPs were characterized by Nano-Zeta Sizer and TEM. Both of 70% and 96% of hydroalcoholic extracts of A. officinalis radix successfully synthesized spherical and poly-dispersed silver NPs. The conversion was fast and almost completed in 5 h.

  17. Plant-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles using parsley ( Petroselinum crispum) leaf extract: spectral analysis of the particles and antibacterial study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roy, Kaushik; Sarkar, C. K.; Ghosh, C. K.

    2015-12-01

    Synthesis of nanomaterials may involve various routes including physical, chemical and biological approaches. Here, the biological green route was chosen to prepare silver nanoparticles from silver salts to avoid the requirement of costly instruments and involvement of hazardous chemicals as well. To make the process clean and green, leaf extract of parsley ( Petroselinum crispum) was used to synthesize Ag nanoparticles at room temperature. The formation of Ag-nanoparticles was monitored by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The presence of silver in the sample and its crystalline nature were verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The size distribution profile and particle size in the suspension were manipulated from dynamic light scattering (DLS) pattern. The shape, size and morphology of the biogenic nanoparticles were studied using high resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM). Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy was used to detect the biomolecules responsible for reduction of silver ions. These biogenic Ag-nanoparticles showed appreciable antibacterial efficacy against three bacteria— Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

  18. Secondary nuclear targeting of mesoporous silica nano-particles for cancer-specific drug delivery based on charge inversion

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xiyong; Fan, Xiaobo; Wu, Guoqiu

    2016-01-01

    A novel multifunctional nano-drug delivery system based on reversal of peptide charge was successfully developed for anticancer drug delivery and imaging. Mesoporous silica nano-particles (MSN) ~50 nm in diameter were chosen as the drug reservoirs, and their surfaces were modified with HIV-1 transactivator peptide-fluorescein isothiocyanate (TAT-FITC) and YSA-BHQ1. The short TAT peptide labeled with FITC was used to facilitate intranuclear delivery, while the YSA peptide tagged with the BHQ1 quencher group was used to specifically bind to the tumor EphA2 membrane receptor. Citraconic anhydride (Cit) was used to invert the charge of the TAT peptide in neutral or weak alkaline conditions so that the positively charged YSA peptide could combine with the TAT peptide through electrostatic attraction. The FITC fluorescence was quenched by the spatial approach of BHQ1 after the two peptides bound to each other. However, the Cit-amino bond was unstable in the acidic atmosphere, so the positive charge of the TAT peptide was restored and the positively charged YSA moiety was repelled. The FITC fluorescence was recovered after the YSA-BHQ1 moiety was removed, and the TAT peptide led the nano-particles into the nucleolus. This nano-drug delivery system was stable at physiological pH, rapidly released the drug in acidic buffer, and was easily taken up by MCF-7 cells. Compared with free doxorubicin hydrochloride at an equal concentration, this modified MSN loaded with doxorubicin molecules had an equivalent inhibitory effect on MCF-7 cells. This nano-drug delivery system is thus a promising method for simultaneous cancer diagnosis and therapy. PMID:27661121

  19. Secondary nuclear targeting of mesoporous silica nano-particles for cancer-specific drug delivery based on charge inversion.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jianwen; Zhao, Fengfeng; Wang, Xiyong; Fan, Xiaobo; Wu, Guoqiu

    2016-10-25

    A novel multifunctional nano-drug delivery system based on reversal of peptide charge was successfully developed for anticancer drug delivery and imaging. Mesoporous silica nano-particles (MSN) ~50 nm in diameter were chosen as the drug reservoirs, and their surfaces were modified with HIV-1 transactivator peptide-fluorescein isothiocyanate (TAT-FITC) and YSA-BHQ1. The short TAT peptide labeled with FITC was used to facilitate intranuclear delivery, while the YSA peptide tagged with the BHQ1 quencher group was used to specifically bind to the tumor EphA2 membrane receptor. Citraconic anhydride (Cit) was used to invert the charge of the TAT peptide in neutral or weak alkaline conditions so that the positively charged YSA peptide could combine with the TAT peptide through electrostatic attraction. The FITC fluorescence was quenched by the spatial approach of BHQ1 after the two peptides bound to each other. However, the Cit-amino bond was unstable in the acidic atmosphere, so the positive charge of the TAT peptide was restored and the positively charged YSA moiety was repelled. The FITC fluorescence was recovered after the YSA-BHQ1 moiety was removed, and the TAT peptide led the nano-particles into the nucleolus. This nano-drug delivery system was stable at physiological pH, rapidly released the drug in acidic buffer, and was easily taken up by MCF-7 cells. Compared with free doxorubicin hydrochloride at an equal concentration, this modified MSN loaded with doxorubicin molecules had an equivalent inhibitory effect on MCF-7 cells. This nano-drug delivery system is thus a promising method for simultaneous cancer diagnosis and therapy.

  20. Microwave-assisted one-step patterning of aqueous colloidal silver.

    PubMed

    Yang, G; Zhou, Y W; Guo, Z R; Wan, Y; Ding, Q; Bai, T T; Wang, C L; Gu, N

    2012-07-05

    A new approach of utilizing microwave to pattern gradient concentric silver nanoparticle ring structures has been presented. The width and height of a single ring and the space between adjacent rings can be adjusted by changing the silver colloidal concentration and the microwave output power. By simply enhancing the ambient vapour pressure to the saturated value during microwave-assisted evaporation, sub-100 nm rings can be deposited in between adjacent micro-rings over a distance of millimetres. Combined with microwave sintering, this approach can also create conductive silver tracks in a single step, showing huge potential in fabricating micro- and nano-electronic devices in an ultra-fast and cost-effective fashion.

  1. The Evolution of Fabricated Gold Thin Films to Nano-Micro Particles Under Thermal Annealing Process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hajivaliei, Mahdi; Nazari, Saeed

    2016-06-01

    Gold (Au) thin films with thickness of 35nm were prepared by electron beam deposition onto flat glass substrates under high vacuum (5.3×10-3Pa) condition and they were annealed in the range of 573-873 K for 1 and 2h in atmospheric pressure. The influence of the annealing temperature on the evolution of Au thin film to nano-micro particles was studied. Moreover, the basic properties of the films, namely morphological, structural and optical were investigated. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the Au thin films were cubic structure phase with lattice parameter around a=4.0786Å. The most preferential orientation is along (111) planes for all Au films. The lattice parameter and grain size in the films were calculated by X-ray patterns and correlated with annealing temperatures. The obtained results of ultraviolet-visible spectrometry (UV-Vis) indicate that with increasing annealing temperature, the surface plasmon resonance peak of gold nanocrystallite will disappear which implies the size of particles are grown. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) results show that the prepared gold thin films have been converted to nano-micro gold particles in different annealing temperatures. These results lead to controlling the size of produced nanocrystallite.

  2. Trapping and assembling of particles and live cells on large-scale random gold nano-island substrates

    PubMed Central

    Kang, Zhiwen; Chen, Jiajie; Wu, Shu-Yuen; Chen, Kun; Kong, Siu-Kai; Yong, Ken-Tye; Ho, Ho-Pui

    2015-01-01

    We experimentally demonstrated the use of random plasmonic nano-islands for optical trapping and assembling of particles and live cells into highly organized pattern with low power density. The observed trapping effect is attributed to the net contribution due to near-field optical trapping force and long-range thermophoretic force, which overcomes the axial convective drag force, while the lateral convection pushes the target objects into the trapping zone. Our work provides a simple platform for on-chip optical manipulation of nano- and micro-sized objects, and may find applications in physical and life sciences. PMID:25928045

  3. Reduction of calcium flux from the extracellular region and endoplasmic reticulum by amorphous nano-silica particles owing to carboxy group addition on their surface.

    PubMed

    Onodera, Akira; Yayama, Katsutoshi; Morosawa, Hideto; Ishii, Yukina; Tsutsumi, Yasuo; Kawai, Yuichi

    2017-03-01

    Several studies have reported that amorphous nano-silica particles (nano-SPs) modulate calcium flux, although the mechanism remains incompletely understood. We thus analyzed the relationship between calcium flux and particle surface properties and determined the calcium flux route. Treatment of Balb/c 3T3 fibroblasts with nano-SPs with a diameter of 70 nm (nSP70) increased cytosolic calcium concentration, but that with SPs with a diameter of 300 or 1000 nm did not. Surface modification of nSP70 with a carboxy group also did not modulate calcium flux. Pretreatment with a general calcium entry blocker almost completely suppressed calcium flux by nSP70. Preconditioning by emptying the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium stores slightly suppressed calcium flux by nSP70. These results indicate that nSP70 mainly modulates calcium flux across plasma membrane calcium channels, with subsequent activation of the ER calcium pump, and that the potential of calcium flux by nano-SPs is determined by the particle surface charge.

  4. Nano-size metallic oxide particle synthesis in Fe-Cr alloys by ion implantation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, C.; Gentils, A.; Ribis, J.; Borodin, V. A.; Delauche, L.; Arnal, B.

    2017-10-01

    Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) steels reinforced with metal oxide nanoparticles are advanced structural materials for nuclear and thermonuclear reactors. The understanding of the mechanisms involved in the precipitation of nano-oxides can help in improving mechanical properties of ODS steels, with a strong impact for their commercialization. A perfect tool to study these mechanisms is ion implantation, where various precipitate synthesis parameters are under control. In the framework of this approach, high-purity Fe-10Cr alloy samples were consecutively implanted with Al and O ions at room temperature and demonstrated a number of unexpected features. For example, oxide particles of a few nm in diameter could be identified in the samples already after ion implantation at room temperature. This is very unusual for ion beam synthesis, which commonly requires post-implantation high-temperature annealing to launch precipitation. The observed particles were composed of aluminium and oxygen, but additionally contained one of the matrix elements (chromium). The crystal structure of aluminium oxide compound corresponds to non-equilibrium cubic γ-Al2O3 phase rather than to more common corundum. The obtained experimental results together with the existing literature data give insight into the physical mechanisms involved in the precipitation of nano-oxides in ODS alloys.

  5. An optimized surface plasmon photovoltaic structure using energy transfer between discrete nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Lin, Albert; Fu, Sze-Ming; Chung, Yen-Kai; Lai, Shih-Yun; Tseng, Chi-Wei

    2013-01-14

    Surface plasmon enhancement has been proposed as a way to achieve higher absorption for thin-film photovoltaics, where surface plasmon polariton(SPP) and localized surface plasmon (LSP) are shown to provide dense near field and far field light scattering. Here it is shown that controlled far-field light scattering can be achieved using successive coupling between surface plasmonic (SP) nano-particles. Through genetic algorithm (GA) optimization, energy transfer between discrete nano-particles (ETDNP) is identified, which enhances solar cell efficiency. The optimized energy transfer structure acts like lumped-element transmission line and can properly alter the direction of photon flow. Increased in-plane component of wavevector is thus achieved and photon path length is extended. In addition, Wood-Rayleigh anomaly, at which transmission minimum occurs, is avoided through GA optimization. Optimized energy transfer structure provides 46.95% improvement over baseline planar cell. It achieves larger angular scattering capability compared to conventional surface plasmon polariton back reflector structure and index-guided structure due to SP energy transfer through mode coupling. Via SP mediated energy transfer, an alternative way to control the light flow inside thin-film is proposed, which can be more efficient than conventional index-guided mode using total internal reflection (TIR).

  6. Synthesis of suitable SiO2 nano particles as the core in core-shell nanostructured materials.

    PubMed

    Ghahari, Mehdi; Aghababazadeh, Roya; Ebadzadeh, Touradj; Mirhabibi, Alireza; Brydson, Rik; Fabbri, Paola; Najafi, Farhod

    2011-06-01

    The effect of surfactant on the luminescent intensity of SiO2 @Y2O3:Eu3+ particles with a core shell structure is described. Core-shell particles are used in phosphor materials and employing spherical particles with a narrow size distribution is vital for the enhancement of luminescent properties. Three kinds of different surfactants were used to synthesis SiO2 nano particles via a sol gel process. The results demonstrated that comb polycarboxylic acid surfactant had a significant influence on the morphology and particle size distribution. Somehow, particles with 100 nm size and narrow size distribution were produced. These particles had relatively uniform packing, unlike particles produced with other surfactants or without surfactant which had irregular assembly. The photoluminescence intensity of SiO2 @Y2O3:Eu3+ particles that was synthesized by comb polycarboxylic acid surfactant was higher than those which were produced without surfactant.

  7. Interaction of silver nanoparticles with proteins: a characteristic protein concentration dependent profile of SPR signal.

    PubMed

    Banerjee, Victor; Das, K P

    2013-11-01

    Silver nanoparticles are finding increasing applications in biological systems, for example as antimicrobial agents and potential candidates for control drug release systems. In all such applications, silver nanoparticles interact with proteins and other biomolecules. Hence, the study of such interactions is of considerable importance. While BSA has been extensively used as a model protein for the study of interaction with the silver nanoparticles, studies using other proteins are rather limited. The interaction of silver nanoparticles with light leads to collective oscillation of the conducting electrons giving rise to surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Here, we have studied the protein concentration dependence of the SPR band profiles for a number of proteins. We found that for all the proteins, with increase in concentration, the SPR band intensity initially decreased, reaching minima and then increased again leading to a characteristic "dip and rise" pattern. Minimum point of the pattern appeared to be related to the isoelectric point of the proteins. Detailed dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy studies revealed that the consistency of SPR profile was dependent on the average particle size and state of association of the silver nanoparticles with the change in the protein concentration. Fluorescence spectroscopic studies showed the binding constants of the proteins with the silver nanoparticles were in the nano molar range with more than one nanoparticle binding to protein molecule. Structural studies demonstrate that protein retains its native-like structure on the nanoparticle surface unless the molar ratio of silver nanoparticles to protein exceeds 10. Our study reveals that nature of the protein concentration dependent profile of SPR signal is a general phenomena and mostly independent of the size and structure of the proteins. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Molecular organic crystalline matrix for hybrid organic-inorganic (nano) composite materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stanculescu, A.; Tugulea, L.; Alexandru, H. V.; Stanculescu, F.; Socol, M.

    2005-02-01

    Metal-doped benzil crystals have been grown by thermal gradient solidification in a vertical transparent growth configuration to investigate the effect of metallic guest on the ordered organic host. We have identified the conditions for growing homogeneous, optically good crystals of benzil doped with sodium and silver, limiting the effect of supercooling, low thermal conductivity and anisotropy of the growth speed (temperature gradient at the liquid-solid interface: 10-25 °C, moving speed of the growth interface 2.0 mm/h). The nature and concentration of the dopant are parameters affecting, through the growth process, the crystalline perfection and the optical properties of the organic matrix. Bulk optical characterisation, by spectrophotometrical methods, has offered details on some intrinsic properties of the system metal particles/benzil crystalline matrix. Analytical processing of the experimental data emphasised that benzil is a wide optical band gap organic semiconductor Eg=2.65 eV. We also have investigated the effect of sodium and silver on the properties of benzil crystal as potential transparent semiconductor matrix for (nano)composite metal/molecular organic material. With the increase of sodium concentration from c=1 to 6 wt%, a small narrowing of the band gap has been remarked. The same behaviour has been found for benzil doped with silver (c=2 wt%) compared to pure benzil.

  9. Effects of Natural Organic Matter on Stability, Transport and Deposition of Engineered Nano-particles in Porous Media

    EPA Science Inventory

    The interaction of nano-particles and organic substances, like natural organic matter, could have significant influence on the fate, transport and bioavailability of toxic substances. Natural organic matter (NOM) is a mixture of chemically complex polyelectrolytes with varying m...

  10. Mechanical properties and strengthening mechanism of epoxy resin reinforced with nano-SiO2 particles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiao, Chufan; Tan, Yefa; Yang, Xupu; Xu, Ting; Wang, Lulu; Qi, Zehao

    2018-03-01

    Nano-SiO2 particles and MWCNTs were used to reinforce the EPs. The mechanical properties of the composites and the strengthening mechanisms of nano-SiO2 and MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of epoxy composites were studied. The results show that the mechanical properties of the reinforced epoxy composites are greatly improved. Especially, nano-SiO2/MWCNTs/EP composites exhibit the most excellent mechanical properties. The synergistic strengthening mechanisms of nano-SiO2 and MWCNTs on the EP are the micro plastic deformation effect, micro-cracks and their divarication effect, and the pull-out effect of MWCNTs in EP matrix, which can reduce the extent of stress concentration and absorb more energy.

  11. Effect of a nano-sized TiC particle addition on the flow-assisted corrosion resistance of SA 106B carbon steel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Jin-Ju; Park, Eun-Kwang; Lee, Gyoung-Ja; Rhee, Chang-Kyu; Lee, Min-Ku

    2017-09-01

    Carbon steel with dispersed nano-sized TiC ceramic particles was fabricated by the ex-situ introduction of the particles into the melt, with the flow-assisted corrosion (FAC) resistance then investigated in the presence and absence of TiC nanoparticles using a once-through type of FAC loop test. From the potentiodynamic polarization curves, the current density at any given anodic potential was decreased and the open-circuit potential was increased by the addition of TiC nanoparticles. In addition, when the nano-sized TiC particles were added, the FAC rate was 1.38 times lower than that of carbon steel without TiC nanoparticles, indicating an improvement of the FAC resistance due to the homogeneous distribution of the TiC reinforcing nanoparticles.

  12. Studies on the relation between the size and dispersion of metallic silver nanoparticles and morphologies of initial silver(I) coordination polymer precursor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moradi, Zhaleh; Akhbari, Kamran; Phuruangrat, Anukorn; Costantino, Ferdinando

    2017-04-01

    Micro and nano-structures of [Ag2(μ2-dcpa)2]n (1), [Hdcpa = 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid] which is a one-dimensional coordination polymer with corrugated tape chains, were synthesized as the bulk sample (1B), by sonochemical process (1S) and from mechanochemical reaction (1M). These three samples have been used as new precursors for fabricating silver nanoparticles via direct calcination at 300 °C and also thermal decomposition in oleic acid (OA) as a surfactant at 180 °C. In the presence of OA less agglomerated nanostructures were formed. It seems that the size, dispersion, morphology and agglomeration of initial precursor have direct influence on size, dispersion, morphology and agglomeration of metallic silver. This coordination polymer with various micro and nano morphologies were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermal stability of these samples were studied and compared with each other, too.

  13. Influence of Poly (Ethylene Glycol) and Oleylamine on the Formation of Nano to Micron Size Spherical SiO2 Particles

    EPA Science Inventory

    We report an eco-friendly synthesis of well–controlled, nano-to-micron-size, spherical SiO2 particles using non-hazardous solvent and a byproducts-producing system. It was found that the morphology and size of spherical SiO2 particles are controlled by adjusting the concentration...

  14. Photocatalytic reduction of heavy metal ions on derivatized titanium dioxide nano-particle surface studied by XAFS.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chen, L. X.; Rajh, T.; Micic, O.

    1997-01-01

    Photoreduction of heavy metal ions, Cu{sup 2-} and Hg{sup 2+}, on TiO{sup 2} nano-particle surfaces, has been investigated by XAFS measurements. The effects of TiO{sup 2} surface modification reagents on the reaction efficiency have been studied. We observed a significant reaction efficiency enhancement when amino acid alanine was added to a mixture of 0.01 M Cu{sup 2+} and TiO{sup 2} nano-particles. Fifty percent of the adsorbed Cu{sup 2+} has been reduced to Cu{sup 0} after 1-h illumination with a UV-enhanced xenon lamp. Photoreduction of Hg{sup 2+} on TiO{sup 2} colloid surfaces was also investigated without and with thiolactic acid (TLA).more » In this case, the photoreduction efficiency for Hg{sup 2+} was lowered. Structures of metal ion surroundings in various complexes as well as their role in photoreduction of metal ions are discussed.« less

  15. Surface transport mechanisms in molecular glasses probed by the exposure of nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruan, Shigang; Musumeci, Daniele; Zhang, Wei; Gujral, Ankit; Ediger, M. D.; Yu, Lian

    2017-05-01

    For a glass-forming liquid, the mechanism by which its surface contour evolves can change from bulk viscous flow at high temperatures to surface diffusion at low temperatures. We show that this mechanistic change can be conveniently detected by the exposure of nano-particles native in the material. Despite its high chemical purity, the often-studied molecular glass indomethacin contains low-concentration particles approximately 100 nm in size and 0.3% in volume fraction. Similar particles are present in polystyrene, another often-used model. In the surface-diffusion regime, particles are gradually exposed in regions vacated by host molecules, for example, the peak of a surface grating and the depletion zone near a surface crystal. In the viscous-flow regime, particle exposure is not observed. The surface contour around an exposed particle widens over time in a self-similar manner as 3 (Bt)1/4, where B is a surface mobility constant and the same constant obtained by surface grating decay. This work suggests that in a binary system composed of slow- and fast-diffusing molecules, slow-diffusing molecules can be stranded in surface regions vacated by fast-diffusing molecules, effectively leading to phase separation.

  16. Nano-Dust Analyzer for the detection and chemical composition measurement particles originating from near the Sun

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    OBrien, L. E.; Gemer, A.; Gruen, E.; Collette, A.; Horanyi, M.; Moebius, E.; Auer, S.; Juhasz, A.; Srama, R.; Sternovsky, Z.

    2012-12-01

    We report the development of the Nano-Dust Analyzer (NDA) instrument and the results from the first laboratory testing and calibration. The two STEREO spacecrafts have indicated that nano-sized dust particles, potentially with very high flux, are delivered to 1 AU from the inner solar system [Meyer-Vernet, N. et al., Solar Physics, 256, 463, 2009]. These particles are generated by collisional grinding or evaporation near the Sun and subsequently accelerated outward by the solar wind. The temporal variability and directionality are governed by conditions in the inner heliosphere and the mass analysis of the particles reveals the chemical differentiation of solid matter near the Sun. NDA is a highly sensitive dust analyzer that is developed under NASA's Heliophysics program. NDA is a linear time-of-flight mass analyzer that modeled after Cosmic Dust Analyzer (CDA) on Cassini and the more recent Lunar Dust EXperiment (LDEX) for the upcoming LADEE mission to the Moon. The ion optics of the instrument is optimized through numerical modeling. By applying technologies implemented in solar wind instruments and coronagraphs, the highly sensitive dust analyzer will be able to be pointed towards the solar direction. A laboratory prototype is built and tested and calibrated at the dust accelerator facility at the University of Colorado, Boulder, using particles with from 1 to over 50 km/s velocity.

  17. Development of an electron paramagnetic resonance methodology for studying the photo-generation of reactive species in semiconductor nano-particle assembled films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Twardoch, Marek; Messai, Youcef; Vileno, Bertrand; Hoarau, Yannick; Mekki, Djamel E.; Felix, Olivier; Turek, Philippe; Weiss, Jean; Decher, Gero; Martel, David

    2018-06-01

    An experimental approach involving electron paramagnetic resonance is proposed for studying photo-generated reactive species in semiconductor nano-particle-based films deposited on the internal wall of glass capillaries. This methodology is applied here to nano-TiO2 and allows a semi-quantitative analysis of the kinetic evolutions of radical production using a spin scavenger probe.

  18. Enhanced photo-response of porous silicon photo-detectors by embeddingTitanium-dioxide nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ali, Hiba M.; Makki, Sameer A.; Abd, Ahmed N.

    2018-05-01

    Porous silicon (n-PS) films can be prepared by photoelectochemical etching (PECE) Silicon chips n - types with 15 (mA / cm2), in 15 minutes etching time on the fabrication nano-sized pore arrangement. By using X-ray diffraction measurement and atomic power microscopy characteristics (AFM), PS was investigated. It was also evaluated the crystallites size from (XRD) for the PS nanoscale. The atomic force microscopy confirmed the nano-metric size chemical fictionalization through the electrochemical etching that was shown on the PS surface chemical composition. The atomic power microscopy checks showed the roughness of the silicon surface. It is also notified (TiO2) preparation nano-particles that were prepared by pulse laser eradication in ethanol (PLAL) technique through irradiation with a Nd:YAG laser pulses TiO2 target that is sunk in methanol using 400 mJ of laser energy. It has been studied the structural, optical and morphological of TiO2NPs. It has been detected that through XRD measurement, (TiO2) NPs have been Tetragonal crystal structure. While with AFM measurements, it has been realized that the synthesized TiO2 particles are spherical with an average particle size in the (82 nm) range. It has been determined that the energy band gap of TiO2 NPs from optical properties and set to be in (5eV) range.The transmittance and reflectance spectra have determined the TiO2 NPs optical constants. It was reported the effectiveness of TiO2 NPs expansion on the PS Photodetector properties which exposes the benefits in (Al/PS/Si/Al). The built-in tension values depend on the etching time current density and laser flounce. Al/TiO2/PS/Si/Al photo-detector heterojunction have two response peaks that are situated at 350 nm and (700 -800nm) with max sensitivity ≈ 0.7 A/W. The maximum given detectivity is 9.38at ≈ 780 nm wavelength.

  19. Comparative study of three magnetic nano-particles (FeSO4, FeSO4/SiO2, FeSO4/SiO2/TiO2) in plasmid DNA extraction.

    PubMed

    Rahnama, H; Sattarzadeh, A; Kazemi, F; Ahmadi, N; Sanjarian, F; Zand, Z

    2016-11-15

    Recent updates on Magnetic Nano-Particles (MNPs) based separation of nucleic acids have received more attention due to their easy manipulation, simplicity, ease of automation and cost-effectiveness. It has been indicated that DNA molecules absorb on solid surfaces via hydrogen-bonding, and hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. These properties highly depend on the surface condition of the solid support. Therefore, surface modification of MNPs may enhance their functionality and specification. In the present study, we functionalized Fe3O4 nano-particle surface utilizing SiO2 and TiO2 layer as Fe3O4/SiO2 and Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2 and then compare their functionality in the adsorption of plasmid DNA molecules with the naked Fe3O4 nano-particles. The result obtained showed that the purity and amount of DNA extracted by Fe3O4 coated by SiO2 or SiO2/TiO2 were higher than the naked Fe3O4 nano-particles. Furthermore, we obtained pH 8 and 1.5 M NaCl as an optimal condition for desorption of DNA from MNPs. The result further showed that, 0.2 mg nano-particle and 10 min at 55 °C are the optimal conditions for DNA desorption from nano-particles. In conclusion, we recommended Fe3O4/SiO2/TiO2 as a new MNP for separation of DNA molecules from biological sources. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Interaction of DNA bases with silver nanoparticles: assembly quantified through SPRS and SERS.

    PubMed

    Basu, Soumen; Jana, Subhra; Pande, Surojit; Pal, Tarasankar

    2008-05-15

    Colloidal silver nanoparticles were prepared by reducing silver nitrate with sodium borohydride. The synthesized silver particles show an intense surface plasmon band in the visible region. The work reported here describes the interaction between nanoscale silver particles and various DNA bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine), which are used as molecular linkers because of their biological significance. In colloidal solutions, the color of silver nanoparticles may range from red to purple to orange to blue, depending on the degree of aggregation as well as the orientation of the individual particles within the aggregates. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and absorption spectroscopy were used to characterize the assemblies. DNA base-induced differential silver nanoparticle aggregation was quantified from the peak separation (relates to color) of surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy (SPRS) and the signal intensity of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), which rationalize the extent of silver-nucleobase interactions.

  1. Active control of nano dimers response using piezoelectric effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mekkawy, Ahmed A.; Ali, Tamer A.; Badawi, Ashraf H.

    2016-09-01

    Nano devices can be used as building blocks for Internet of Nano-Things network devices, such as sensors/actuators, transceivers, and routers. Although nano particles response can be engineered to fit in different regimes, for such a nano particle to be used as an active nano device, its properties should be dynamically controlled. This controllability is a challenge, and there are many proposed techniques to tune nanoparticle response on the spot through a sort of control signal, wither that signal is optical (for all-optical systems) or electronic (for opto-electronic systems). This will allow the use of nano particles as nano-switches or as dynamic sensors that can pick different frequencies depending on surrounding conditions or depending on a smart decisions. In this work, we propose a piezoelectric substrate as an active control mediator to control plasmonic gaps in nano dimers. This method allows for integrating nano devices with regular electronics while communicating control signals to nano devices through applying electric signals to a piezoelectric material, in order to control the gaps between nano particles in a nano cluster. We do a full numerical study to the system, analyzing the piezoelectric control resolution (minimum gap change step) and its effect on a nanodimer response as a nanoantenna. This analysis considers the dielectric functions of materials within the visible frequencies range. The effects of different parameters, such as the piezoelectric geometrical structure and materials, on the gap control resolution and the operating frequency are studied.

  2. Phyto-mediated metallic nano-architectures via Melissa officinalis L.: synthesis, characterization and biological properties.

    PubMed

    Fierascu, Irina; Georgiev, Milen I; Ortan, Alina; Fierascu, Radu Claudiu; Avramescu, Sorin Marius; Ionescu, Daniela; Sutan, Anca; Brinzan, Alexandru; Ditu, Lia Mara

    2017-09-29

    The development of methods for obtaining new materials with antimicrobial properties, based on green chemistry principles has been a target of research over the past few years. The present paper describes the phyto-mediated synthesis of metallic nano-architectures (gold and silver) via an ethanolic extract of Melissa officinalis L. (obtained by accelerated solvent extraction). Different analytic methods were applied for the evaluation of the extract composition, as well as for the characterization of the phyto-synthesized materials. The cytogenotoxicity of the synthesized materials was evaluated by Allium cepa assay, while the antimicrobial activity was examined by applying both qualitative and quantitative methods. The results demonstrate the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (average diameter 13 nm) and gold nanoparticles (diameter of ca. 10 nm); the bi-metallic nanoparticles proved to have a core-shell flower-like structure, composed of smaller particles (ca. 8 nm). The Ag nanoparticles were found not active on nuclear DNA damage. The Au nanoparticles appeared nucleoprotective, but were aggressive in generating clastogenic aberrations in A. cepa root meristematic cells. Results of the antimicrobial assays show that silver nanoparticles were active against most of the tested strains, as the lowest MIC value being obtained against B. cereus (approx. 0.0015 mM).

  3. Biogenic nano-scale silver particles by Tephrosia purpurea leaf extract and their inborn antimicrobial activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ajitha, B.; Ashok Kumar Reddy, Y.; Reddy, P. Sreedhara

    2014-03-01

    In this paper we report the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using Tephrosia purpurea leaf extract. The biomolecules present in the leaf extract are responsible for the formation of Ag NPs and they found to play dual role of both reducing as well as capping agents. The high crystallinity of Ag NPs is evident from bright circular spot array of SAED pattern and diffraction peaks in XRD profile. The synthesized Ag NPs are found to be nearly spherical ones with size approximately ∼20 nm. FTIR spectrum evidences the presence of different functional groups of biomolecules participated in encapsulating Ag NPs and the possible mechanism of Ag NPs formation was also suggested. Appearance of yellow color and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 425 nm confirms the Ag NPs formation. PL spectra showed decrement in luminescence intensity at higher excitation wavelengths. Antimicrobial activity of Ag NPs showed better inhibitory activity towards Pseudomonas spp. and Penicillium spp. compared to other test pathogens using standard Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay.

  4. Direct Write Processing of Multi-micron Thickness Copper Nano-particle Paste on Flexible Substrates with 532 nm Laser Wavelength

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lopez-Espiricueta, Dunia; Fearon, Eamonn; Edwardson, Stuart; Dearden, Geoffrey

    The Laser Assisted Direct Write (LA-DW) method has been implemented in the development of different markets and material processing, recently also used for creating Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) or electrical circuitry. The process consists in the deposition of metallic nano-particle (NP) inks, which are afterwards cured or sintered by laser irradiation, thus creating conductive pathways; advantages are speed, accuracy and the protection of the heat affected zone (HAZ). This research will study the behaviour of the heat dissipation relatively within the Nano-particle Copper paste after being irradiated with 1064 nm and 532 nm wavelengths, research will be developed on different widths and depths deposited onto flat surfaces such as flexible PET. Comparisons to be made between resistivity results obtained from different wavelengths.

  5. Protection of cisplatin-induced spermatotoxicity, DNA damage and chromatin abnormality by selenium nano-particles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rezvanfar, Mohammad Amin; Rezvanfar, Mohammad Ali; Shahverdi, Ahmad Reza

    Cisplatin (CIS), an anticancer alkylating agent, induces DNA adducts and effectively cross links the DNA strands and so affects spermatozoa as a male reproductive toxicant. The present study investigated the cellular/biochemical mechanisms underlying possible protective effect of selenium nano-particles (Nano-Se) as an established strong antioxidant with more bioavailability and less toxicity, on reproductive toxicity of CIS by assessment of sperm characteristics, sperm DNA integrity, chromatin quality and spermatogenic disorders. To determine the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of CIS gonadotoxicity, the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO), antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidasemore » (GSH-Px) and peroxynitrite (ONOO) as a marker of nitrosative stress (NS) and testosterone (T) concentration as a biomarker of testicular function were measured in the blood and testes. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups. A single IP dose of CIS (7 mg/kg) and protective dose of Nano-Se (2 mg/kg/day) were administered alone or in combination. The CIS-exposed rats showed a significant increase in testicular and serum LPO and ONOO level, along with a significant decrease in enzymatic antioxidants levels, diminished serum T concentration and abnormal histologic findings with impaired sperm quality associated with increased DNA damage and decreased chromatin quality. Coadministration of Nano-Se significantly improved the serum T, sperm quality, and spermatogenesis and reduced CIS-induced free radical toxic stress and spermatic DNA damage. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that Nano-Se may be useful to prevent CIS-induced gonadotoxicity through its antioxidant potential. Highlights: ► Cisplatin (CIS) affects spermatozoa as a male reproductive toxicant. ► Effect of Nano-Se on CIS-induced spermatotoxicity was investigated. ► CIS-exposure induces oxidative sperm DNA

  6. Formation of hybrid nanocomposites polymethylolacrylamide/silver

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kolzunova, L. G.; Shchitovskaya, E. V.; Rodzik, I. G.

    2018-05-01

    In this study, polymethylolacrylamide/silver composites have been formed by incorporating silver nanoparticles into the pre-electrosynthesized polymer film. The composites were formed in a two-step process involving the sorption of silver nitrate by a polymer matrix followed by chemical reduction of Ag-ions. The presence of crystalline silver phase in the polymer was confirmed by X-ray phase analysis (XRD), plasmon resonance and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) method has obtained the distribution functions of silver particles over radii. It is established that the content of silver in composites without chitosan is 10-15 times higher than with its additive. The dependences of cyclic voltammetry in pure phosphate buffer (pH 6.86) and in the presence of hydrogen peroxide were obtained. It has been shown that polymer/silver composites exhibit selectivity to hydrogen peroxide.

  7. Silver nano particles ameliorate learning and spatial memory of male Wistar rats by prevention of amyloid fibril-induced neurotoxicity.

    PubMed

    Ramshini, H; Moghaddasi, A-S; Aldaghi, L-S; Mollania, N; Ebrahim-Habibi, A

    2017-12-08

    Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), which results into memory and learning impairments. In the present study, we showed that the aggregates formed by a protein that has no link with Alzheimer's disease, namely the hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL), were cytotoxic and decreased spatial learning and memory in rats. The effect of Ag-nano particles (Ag-NPs) was investigated on disruption of amyloid aggregation and preservation of cognitive behavior of rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups including a control group, and injected with either scopolamine, lysozyme or aggregates pre-incubated with Ag-NPs. Rats' behavior was monitored using Morris water maze (MWM) twenty days after injections. HEWL aggregation in the presence and absence of the Ag-NPs was assayed by Thioflavin T binding, atomic force microscopy and cell-based cytotoxicity assay. Ag-NPs were capable to directly disrupt HEWL oligomerization and the resulting aggregates were non-toxic. We also showed that rats of the Ag-NPs group found MWM test platform in less time and with less distance traveled, in comparison with lysozyme group. Ag-NPs also increased the percentage of time elapsed and the distance swum in the target quadrant in the rat model of AD, in probe test. These observations suggest that Ag-NPs improved spatial learning and memory by inhibiting amyloid fibril-induced neurotoxicity. Furthermore, we suggest using model proteins as a valid tool to investigate the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

  8. Silver ion-enhanced particle-specific cytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles and effect on the production of extracellular secretions of Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

    PubMed

    Huang, Zhenzhen; Xu, Piao; Chen, Guiqiu; Zeng, Guangming; Chen, Anwei; Song, Zhongxian; He, Kai; Yuan, Lei; Li, Hui; Hu, Liang

    2018-04-01

    This study investigated the influence of silver ions (Ag + ) on the cytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in Phanerochaete chrysosporium and noted the degree of extracellular secretions in response to the toxicant's stress. Oxalate production was elicited with moderate concentrations of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) and AgNPs reaching a plateau at 10 mg/L and 10 μM, respectively. Increased oxalate accumulation was accompanied by higher activities of manganese peroxidase (MnP) and lignin peroxidase (LiP). However, the secretion of oxalate, MnP and LiP was significantly inhibited owing to Ag + incorporation into AgNP solution. Production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) significantly elevated with an increase in 2,4-DCP concentrations; however, after 24 h of exposure to 100 mg/L 2,4-DCP, an obvious decrease in EPS occurred, indicating that part of EPS could be consumed as carbon and energy sources to ameliorate biological tolerance to toxic stress. Furthermore, AgNP-induced "particle-specific" cytotoxicity was substantially enhanced with additional Ag + as evidenced by its significant negative impact on cellular growth, plasma membrane integrity, and morphological preservation compared with AgNPs at equal Ag concentration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Synthesis of tin, silver and their alloy nanoparticles for lead-free interconnect applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Hongjin

    SnPb solders have long been used as interconnect materials in microelectronic packaging. Due to the health threat of lead to human beings, the use of lead-free interconnect materials is imperative. Three kinds of lead-free interconnect materials are being investigated, namely lead-free metal solders (SnAg, SnAgCu, etc.), electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). However, there are still limitations for the full utilization of these lead-free interconnect materials in the microelectronic packaging, such as higher melting point of lead-free metal solders, lower electrical conductivity of the ECAs and poor adhesion of CNTs to substrates. This thesis is devoted to the research and development of low processing temperature lead-free interconnect materials for microelectronic packaging applications with an emphasis on fundamental studies of nanoparticles synthesis, dispersion and oxidation prevention, and nanocomposites fabrication. Oxide-free tin (Sn), tin/silver (96.5Sn3.5Ag) and tin/silver/copper (96.5Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu) alloy nanoparticles with different sizes were synthesized by a low temperature chemical reduction method. Both size dependent melting point and latent heat of fusion of the synthesized nanoparticles were obtained. The nano lead-free solder pastes/composites created by dispersing the SnAg or SnAgCu alloy nanoparticles into an acidic type flux spread and wet on the cleaned copper surface at 220 to 230°C. This study demonstrated the feasibility of nano sized SnAg or SnAgCu alloy particle pastes for low processing temperature lead-free interconnect applications in microelectronic packaging.

  10. Rapid Fabrication of Silver Nanowires through Photoreduction of Silver Nitrate from an Anodic-Aluminum-Oxide Template

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Yu-Hsuan; Chen, Kun-Tso; Ho, Jeng-Rong

    2011-06-01

    A method for rapidly fabricating dense and high-aspect-ratio silver nanowires, with wire diameter of 200 nm and wire length more than 30 µm, is reported. The fabrication process simply involves filling the silver nitrate solution into the pores of an anodic-aluminum-oxide (AAO) membrane through capillary attraction and irradiating the dried template AAO membrane using a pulsed ArF excimer laser. Through varying the thickness and pore diameter of the employed AAO membrane, the primary dimensions of the targeted silver nanowires can be plainly specified; and, by amending the initial concentration of the silver nitrate solution and adjusting the laser operation parameters, laser fluence and number of laser pulses, the surface morphology and size of the resulting nanowires can be finely regulated. The wire formation mechanism is considered through two stages: the period of precipitation of silver particles from the dried silver nitrate film through the laser-induced photoreduction; and, the phase of clustering, merging and fusing of the reduced particles to form nanowires in the template pores by the thermal energy owing to photothermal effect. This approach is straightforward and takes the advantage that all the fabrication processes can be executed in an ambient environment and at room temperature. In addition, by the excellence in local processing that the laser possesses, this method is suitable for precisely growing nanowires.

  11. In vitro percutaneous penetration and characterization of silver from silver-containing textiles

    PubMed Central

    Bianco, Carlotta; Kezic, Sanja; Crosera, Matteo; Svetličić, Vesna; Šegota, Suzana; Maina, Giovanni; Romano, Canzio; Larese, Francesca; Adami, Gianpiero

    2015-01-01

    The objective of this study was to determine the in vitro percutaneous penetration of silver and characterize the silver species released from textiles in different layers of full thickness human skin. For this purpose, two different wound dressings and a garment soaked in artificial sweat were placed in the donor compartments of Franz cells for 24 hours. The concentration of silver in the donor phase and in the skin was determined by an electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer (ET-AAS) and by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The characterization of silver species in the textiles and in the skin layers was made by scanning electron microscopy with integrated energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Additionally, the size distribution of silver nanoparticles in the textiles was performed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). On the surface of all investigated materials, silver nanoparticles of different size and morphology were found. Released silver concentrations in the soaking solutions (ie, exposure concentration) ranged from 0.7 to 4.7 μg/mL (0.6–4.0 μg/cm2), fitting the bactericidal range. Silver and silver chloride aggregates at sizes of up to 1 μm were identified both in the epidermis and dermis. The large size of these particles suggests that the aggregation occurred in the skin. The formation of these aggregates likely slowed down the systemic absorption of silver. Conversely, these aggregates may form a reservoir enabling prolonged release of silver ions, which might lead to local effects. PMID:25792824

  12. Physicochemical fabrication of antibacterial calcium phosphate submicrospheres with dispersed silver nanoparticles via coprecipitation and photoreduction under laser irradiation.

    PubMed

    Nakamura, Maki; Oyane, Ayako; Shimizu, Yoshiki; Miyata, Saori; Saeki, Ayumi; Miyaji, Hirofumi

    2016-12-01

    We achieved rapid, surfactant-free, and one-pot fabrication of antibacterial calcium phosphate (CaP) submicrospheres containing silver nanoparticles by combining physical laser and chemical coprecipitation processes. In this physicochemical process, weak pulsed laser irradiation (20min) was performed on a labile CaP reaction mixture supplemented with silver ions as a light-absorbing agent. The silver content in the submicrospheres was controlled for a wide range (Ag/P elemental ratio varied from 0.60 to 62.0) by tuning the initial concentration of silver ions (from 5 to 20mM) in the CaP reaction mixture. At the silver concentration of 5mM, we obtained unique nanocomposite particles: CaP submicrospheres (average diameter of approximately 500nm) containing metallic silver nanoparticles dispersed throughout, as a result of CaP and silver coprecipitation with simultaneous photoreduction of silver ions and spheroidization of the coprecipitates. These CaP submicrospheres containing silver nanoparticles (ca. 0.3mg silver per 1mg submicrospheres) exhibited antibacterial activity against major pathogenic oral bacteria, i.e., Streptococcus mutans, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Moreover, the CaP submicrospheres dissolved and neutralized the acidic environment generated by Streptococcus mutans, demonstrating their potential as acid-neutralizing and remineralizing agents. The present process and resulting antibacterial CaP-based submicrospheres are expected to be useful in dental healthcare and infection control. Nano- and microsized spheres of calcium phosphate (CaP) containing silver nanoparticles have great potential in dental applications. Conventional fabrication processes were time-consuming or weak regarding the size/shape control of the spheres. In this study, we achieved a simple (one-pot), rapid (20-min irradiation), and surfactant-free fabrication of CaP submicrospheres containing silver nanoparticles by pulsed laser irradiation

  13. Silver ions are responsible for memory impairment induced by oral administration of silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Węsierska, M; Dziendzikowska, K; Gromadzka-Ostrowska, J; Dudek, J; Polkowska-Motrenko, H; Audinot, J N; Gutleb, A C; Lankoff, A; Kruszewski, M

    2018-06-15

    Increasing use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) results in increased human exposure. AgNPs are able to cross brain-blood barrier and are a risk factor for the brain. Thus, we hypothesized that AgNPs exposure might affect hippocampal dependent memory, which required cognitive coordination processes. To verify the assumption, in this study we evaluated the effects of orally administered bovine serum albumin (BSA)-coated AgNPs on spatial memory, which engage cognitive coordination processes for on-going stimuli segregation. Rats following 28 days of oral administration with 1 mg/kg (n = 10) or 30 mg/kg (n = 10) BSA-AgNPs or saline, a control groups (n = 10, n = 8), were tested with an active place avoidance task in the Carousel Maze test. The study revealed significant impairment of long- and short-term memory, irrespectively of dose of AgNPs, whereas non-cognitive activity was on a similar level. We found significantly higher content of silver in the hippocampus in comparison to the lateral cortex. No silver was found in the cerebellum and the frontal cortex. The nanoSIMS analysis reveal a weak signal of silver in the hippocampus of AgNPs treated animals that should be attributed to the presence of silver in ionic form rather than AgNPs. Our findings indicate that oral exposure to a low dose AgNPs induces detrimental effect on memory and cognitive coordination processes. The presence of silver ions rather than AgNPs in different brain regions, in particular the hippocampus, suggests crucial role of silver ions in AgNPs-induced impairment of the higher brain functions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Plasmonic graded nano-disks as nano-optical conveyor belt.

    PubMed

    Kang, Zhiwen; Lu, Haifei; Chen, Jiajie; Chen, Kun; Xu, Fang; Ho, Ho-Pui

    2014-08-11

    We propose a plasmonic system consisting of nano-disks (NDs) with graded diameters for the realization of nano-optical conveyor belt. The system contains a couple of NDs with individual elements coded with different resonant wavelengths. By sequentially switching the wavelength and polarization of the excitation source, optically trapped target nano-particle can be transferred from one ND to another. The feasibility of such function is verified based on the three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain technique and the Maxwell stress tensor method. Our design may provide an alternative way to construct nano-optical conveyor belt with which target molecules can be delivered between trapping sites, thus enabling many on-chip optofluidic applications.

  15. Infinite Coordination Polymer Nano- and Micro-Particles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-06-12

    Mirkin, Tobin J. Marks, Joseph T. Hupp. SiO2 Aerogel-templated, Porous TiO2 Photoanodes for Enhanced Performances in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells ...nano-scale ICPs and their selective surface functionalization, we examined if indeed these ICP-DNA hybrid structures could enter cells and...surface functionalization. In particular, we aimed to utilize this fundamental understanding for the realization of nano-scale ICP-biomolecule hybrids

  16. Pseudomonas deceptionensis DC5-mediated synthesis of extracellular silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Jo, Jae H; Singh, Priyanka; Kim, Yeon J; Wang, Chao; Mathiyalagan, Ramya; Jin, Chi-Gyu; Yang, Deok C

    2016-09-01

    The biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles is of great interest in the field of nanotechnology. The present work highlights the extracellular biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Pseudomonas deceptionensis DC5. The particles were synthesized in the culture supernatant within 48 h of incubation. Extracellular synthesis of silver nanoparticles in the culture supernatant was confirmed by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, which showed the absorption peak at 428 nm, and also under field emission transmission electron microscopy which displayed the spherical shape. In addition, the particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, which corresponds to the crystalline nature of nanoparticles, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis which exhibited the intense peak at 3 keV, resembling the silver nanoparticles. Further, the synthesized nanoparticles were examined by elemental mapping which displayed the dominance of the silver element in the synthesized product, and dynamic light scattering which showed the distribution of silver nanoparticles with respect to intensity, volume, and number of particles. Moreover, the silver nanoparticles have been found to be quite active in antimicrobial activity and biofilm inhibition activity against pathogenic microorganisms. Thus, the present work emphasized the prospect of using the P. deceptionensis DC5 to achieve the extracellular synthesis of silver nanoparticles in a facile and environmental manner.

  17. Ultrasound-assisted Micro-emulsion Synthesis of a Highly Active Nano-particle Catalyst

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-03-01

    saturated calomel electrode [SCE]). 15. SUBJECT TERMS Microemulsion synthesis, Nano particles, Catalysts, Ultrasound, Oxygen reduction, Rotating disk...30 40 50 60 ω1/2 (rpm 1/2) i ( m A .c m -2 ) Ultrasound Assisted Microemulsion Microemulsion non- Microemulsion O2 4e Redc by Diff. Figure 17. Levich...2.0 2.4 0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1 0.12 ω-1/2(rpm-1/2) i-1 (m A -1 cm 2 ) non- Microemulsion Microemulsion Ultrasound Assisted Microemulsion O2 4-e Redc

  18. Characterization and antibacterial properties of stable silver substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles synthesized through surfactant assisted microwave process

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Iqbal, Nida; Abdul Kadir, Mohammed Rafiq, E-mail: rafiq@biomedical.utm.my; Nik Malek, Nik Ahmad Nazim

    Highlights: • Stable nano sized silver substitute hydroxyapatite is prepared under surfactant assisted microwave process at 600 W power for 7 min. • The nanoparticles are in the size range of 58–72 nm and exert uniform elongated spheroid morphology. • Increase in silver concentration resulted in better dielectric properties. • Good antibacterial activity and silver release. - Abstract: The present study reports a relatively simple method for the synthesis of stable silver substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles with controlled morphology and particle size. In order to achieve this, CTAB is included as a surfactant in the microwave refluxing process (600 W formore » 7 min). The nanoparticles produced with different silver ion concentrations (0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 wt%) were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. XRD and FTIR analyses reveal that the Ag-HA nanoparticles were phase pure at 1000 °C. FESEM images showed that the produced nanoparticles are in the size range of 58–72 nm and exert uniform elongated spheroid morphology. The dielectric properties suggest that the increase in dielectric constant (ε′) and dissipation factor (D) values with increasing Ag concentrations. Antibacterial performance of the Ag-HA samples elucidated using disk diffusion technique (DDT) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) demonstrates anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. This effect was dose dependent and was more pronounced against Gram-negative bacteria than Gram-positive organisms.« less

  19. Cellular uptake of beta-carotene from protein stabilized solid lipid nano-particles prepared by homogenization-evaporation method

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Using a homogenization-evaporation method, beta-carotene (BC) loaded nano-particles were prepared with different ratios of food-grade sodium caseinate (SC), whey protein isolate (WPI), or soy protein isolate (SPI) to BC and evaluated for their physiochemical stability, in vitro cytotoxicity, and cel...

  20. Phase and electrical properties of PZT thin films embedded with CuO nano-particles by a hybrid sol-gel route

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sreesattabud, Tharathip; Gibbons, Brady J.; Watcharapasorn, Anucha; Jiansirisomboon, Sukanda

    2013-07-01

    Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 or PZT thin films embedded with CuO nano-particles were successfully prepared by a hybrid sol-gel process. In this process, CuO (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 1 wt. %) nanopowder was suspended in an organometallic solution of PZT, and then coated on platinised silicon substrate using a spin-coating technique. The influence of CuO nano-particles' dispersion on the phase of PZT thin films was investigated. XRD results showed a perovskite phase in all films. At the CuO concentration of 0.4-1 wt. %, a second phase was observed. The addition of CuO nano-particles affected the orientation of PZT thin films. The addition was also found to reduce the ferroelectric properties of PZT thin films. However, at 0.2 wt. % CuO concentration, the film exhibited good ferroelectric properties similar to those of PZT films. In addition, the fatigue retention properties of the PZT/CuO system was observed, and it showed 14% fatigue at 108 switching bipolar pulse cycles while the fatigue in PZT thin films was found to be 17% at the same switching bipolar pulse cycles.

  1. Deliquescence behavior of photo-irradiated single NaNO3 droplets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seng, Samantha; Guo, Fangqin; Tobon, Yeny A.; Ishikawa, Tomoki; Moreau, Myriam; Ishizaka, Shoji; Sobanska, Sophie

    2018-06-01

    Nitrate-containing particles are ubiquitous in the troposphere because of their secondary production due to anthropogenic emissions of NOx from the combustion of fossil fuels. Nitrate ions are recognized as photoactive species that may contribute to the formation of oxidants in the atmosphere through heterogeneous photochemical reactions. The chemical transformation of aerosol particles in the atmosphere often leads to modification of the particles' hygroscopic properties. Although the photo-transformation of nitrate ions into nitrite within aerosol particles has been investigated, the influence of the photoproducts formation on the hygroscopic behavior of particles has not been reported. In this study, we examined the hygroscopic properties of single, ultraviolet-irradiated NaNO3 droplets using Raman microspectrometry. We are the first demonstrated that irradiating NaNO3 particles affects their hygroscopic behavior. For short-term exposures, regarding hygroscopic behavior, the irradiated particles exhibited two-stage transitions that were clearly reproduced in the experimental NaNO3-NaNO2 phase diagram. The production of NO2- decreased the deliquescence relative humidity values. For long irradiation times (>5 h), these values are even more affected by the additional production of peroxynitrite and carbonate ions in individual droplets. The NaNO3-NaNO2 deliquescence phase diagram cannot explain the hygroscopic behavior of long-term irradiated particles. Finally, we demonstrated the influence that CO2 has on the photo-transformation process in NaNO3 droplets.

  2. Antibacterial and catalytic activities of green synthesized silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Bindhu, M R; Umadevi, M

    2015-01-25

    The aqueous beetroot extract was used as reducing agent for silver nanoparticles synthesis. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The surface plasmon resonance peak of synthesized nanoparticles was observed at 438 nm. As the concentration of beetroot extract increases, absorption spectra shows blue shift with decreasing particle size. The prepared silver nanoparticles were well dispersed, spherical in shape with the average particle size of 15 nm. The prepared silver nanoparticles are effective in inhibiting the growth of both gram positive and gram negative bacteria. The prepared silver nanoparticles reveal faster catalytic activity. This natural method for synthesis of silver nanoparticles offers a valuable contribution in the area of green synthesis and nanotechnology avoiding the presence of hazardous and toxic solvents and waste. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Pb(II) sorption from aqueous solution by novel biochar loaded with nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Wang, Chongqing; Wang, Hui

    2018-02-01

    Novel sorbent (HBC) is prepared by introducing nano-particles (Maghemite and EDTA functionalized layered double hydroxides) on biochar surface. FTIR, XRD, SEM and EDS are used to characterize the biochar nanocomposites. Pb(II) sorption is highly dependent on solution pH. Sorption kinetics and isotherms indicate that Pb(II) sorption onto the sorbents follows pseudo-second order model and Langmuir isotherm. The maximum sorption capacity of Pb(II) onto HBC is up to146.84 mg g -1 , higher than previously reported sorbents. The magnetic particles enable easy separation of HBC from aqueous solution by external magnetic fields. HBC can be used as effective sorbent for removal of heavy metals from wastewater. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Nano-plastics in the aquatic environment.

    PubMed

    Mattsson, K; Hansson, L-A; Cedervall, T

    2015-10-01

    The amount of plastics released to the environment in modern days has increased substantially since the development of modern plastics in the early 1900s. As a result, concerns have been raised by the public about the impact of plastics on nature and on, specifically, aquatic wildlife. Lately, much attention has been paid to macro- and micro-sized plastics and their impact on aquatic organisms. However, micro-sized plastics degrade subsequently into nano-sizes whereas nano-sized particles may be released directly into nature. Such particles have a different impact on aquatic organisms than larger pieces of plastic due to their small size, high surface curvature, and large surface area. This review describes the possible sources of nano-sized plastic, its distribution and behavior in nature, the impact of nano-sized plastic on the well-being of aquatic organisms, and the difference of impact between nano- and micro-sized particles. We also identify research areas which urgently need more attention and suggest experimental methods to obtain useful data.

  5. Highly surface-roughened quasi-spherical silver powders in back electrode paste for silicon solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yin, Peng; Liu, Shouchao; Li, Qiuying; Chen, Xiaolei; Guo, Weihong; Wu, Chifei

    2017-08-01

    In our work, highly surface-roughened quasi-spherical silver powders with controllable size and superior dispersibility, which have narrow size distribution and relatively high tap density, were successfully prepared by reducing silver nitrate with ascorbic acid in aqueous solutions. Gum arabic (AG) was selected as dispersant to prevent the agglomeration of silver particles. Furthermore, the effects of preparation conditions on the characteristics of the powders were systematically investigated. By varying the concentration of the reactants, dosage of dispersant, the feeding modes, synthesis temperature and the pH value of the mixture solution of silver nitrate and AG, the resulted silver particles displayed controllable size, different morphologies and surface roughness. The spherical silver powder with mean particle size of 1.20 µm, tap density of 4.1 g cm-3 and specific area value of 0.46 m2 g-1 was prepared by adjusting preparation conditions. The AG absorbed on the surface preventing the silver particles from diffusion and aggregation was proved by the ultraviolet spectra. Observations of SEM images showed that the as-prepared silver powders were relatively monodisperse silver spheres with highly roughened surface and the particle size was controllable from 1 µm to 5 µm, specific surface area value from approximately 0.2 m2 g-1 to 0.8 m2 g-1. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and thermal gravity analysis (TGA) demonstrated high crystallinity and purity of the obtained silver powders.

  6. Molecular modeling in structural nano-toxicology: interactions of nano-particles with nano-machinery of cells.

    PubMed

    Yanamala, Naveena; Kagan, Valerian E; Shvedova, Anna A

    2013-12-01

    Over the past two decades, nanotechnology has emerged as a key player in various disciplines of science and technology. Some of the most exciting applications are in the field of biomedicine - for theranostics (for combined diagnostic and therapeutic purposes) as well as for exploration of biological systems. A detailed understanding of the molecular interactions between nanoparticles and biological nano-machinery - macromolecules, membranes, and intracellular organelles - is crucial for obtaining adequate information on mechanisms of action of nanomaterials as well as a perspective on the long term effects of these materials and their possible toxicological outcomes. This review focuses on the use of structure-based computational molecular modeling as a tool to understand and to predict the interactions between nanomaterials and nano-biosystems. We review major approaches and provide examples of computational analysis of the structural principles behind such interactions. A rationale on how nanoparticles of different sizes, shape, structure and chemical properties can affect the organization and functions of nano-machinery of cells is also presented. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  7. Surface plasmon polaritons generated by radial polarized laser beam on silver nano-ring

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kozlova, Elena S.; Kotlyar, Victor V.

    2017-04-01

    In this work the single surface plasmon-polariton was obtained by using frequency-dependent finite difference time domain method for the radial polarized and vortex beams at 532 nm, which were propagating through the silver nanoring on substrate from silica glass, placed in an aqueous medium. The height and width of device were equal to 20 nm and 215 nm respectively. The intensity of surface plasmon-polariton was four times higher and three times higher the intensity of the incident radiation for case of conventional and vortex beams respectively. The full width at half maximum of the nanojet was near 160 nm for each cases. The presented design can be used for manufacturing of highly integrated optical devices and circuits used in high-speed communication applications. The results also can be used to design devices that allow capturing and moving the particles in water or other biofluidics.

  8. Protection of cisplatin-induced spermatotoxicity, DNA damage and chromatin abnormality by selenium nano-particles.

    PubMed

    Rezvanfar, Mohammad Amin; Rezvanfar, Mohammad Ali; Shahverdi, Ahmad Reza; Ahmadi, Abbas; Baeeri, Maryam; Mohammadirad, Azadeh; Abdollahi, Mohammad

    2013-02-01

    Cisplatin (CIS), an anticancer alkylating agent, induces DNA adducts and effectively cross links the DNA strands and so affects spermatozoa as a male reproductive toxicant. The present study investigated the cellular/biochemical mechanisms underlying possible protective effect of selenium nano-particles (Nano-Se) as an established strong antioxidant with more bioavailability and less toxicity, on reproductive toxicity of CIS by assessment of sperm characteristics, sperm DNA integrity, chromatin quality and spermatogenic disorders. To determine the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of CIS gonadotoxicity, the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO), antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and peroxynitrite (ONOO) as a marker of nitrosative stress (NS) and testosterone (T) concentration as a biomarker of testicular function were measured in the blood and testes. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups. A single IP dose of CIS (7 mg/kg) and protective dose of Nano-Se (2 mg/kg/day) were administered alone or in combination. The CIS-exposed rats showed a significant increase in testicular and serum LPO and ONOO level, along with a significant decrease in enzymatic antioxidants levels, diminished serum T concentration and abnormal histologic findings with impaired sperm quality associated with increased DNA damage and decreased chromatin quality. Coadministration of Nano-Se significantly improved the serum T, sperm quality, and spermatogenesis and reduced CIS-induced free radical toxic stress and spermatic DNA damage. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that Nano-Se may be useful to prevent CIS-induced gonadotoxicity through its antioxidant potential. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Effect of silver nanoparticles on human mesenchymal stem cell differentiation

    PubMed Central

    Diendorf, Jörg; Epple, Matthias; Schildhauer, Thomas A; Köller, Manfred

    2014-01-01

    Summary Background: Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NP) are one of the fastest growing products in nano-medicine due to their enhanced antibacterial activity at the nanoscale level. In biomedicine, hundreds of products have been coated with Ag-NP. For example, various medical devices include silver, such as surgical instruments, bone implants and wound dressings. After the degradation of these materials, or depending on the coating technique, silver in nanoparticle or ion form can be released and may come into close contact with tissues and cells. Despite incorporation of Ag-NP as an antibacterial agent in different products, the toxicological and biological effects of silver in the human body after long-term and low-concentration exposure are not well understood. In the current study, we investigated the effects of both ionic and nanoparticulate silver on the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) into adipogenic, osteogenic and chondrogenic lineages and on the secretion of the respective differentiation markers adiponectin, osteocalcin and aggrecan. Results: As shown through laser scanning microscopy, Ag-NP with a size of 80 nm (hydrodynamic diameter) were taken up into hMSCs as nanoparticulate material. After 24 h of incubation, these Ag-NP were mainly found in the endo-lysosomal cell compartment as agglomerated material. Cytotoxicity was observed for differentiated or undifferentiated hMSCs treated with high silver concentrations (≥20 µg·mL−1 Ag-NP; ≥1.5 µg·mL−1 Ag+ ions) but not with low-concentration treatments (≤10 µg·mL−1 Ag-NP; ≤1.0 µg·mL−1 Ag+ ions). Subtoxic concentrations of Ag-NP and Ag+ ions impaired the adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas chondrogenic differentiation was unaffected after 21 d of incubation. In contrast to aggrecan, the inhibitory effect of adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation was confirmed by a decrease in the secretion of specific

  10. Silver, gold, and alloyed silver-gold nanoparticles: characterization and comparative cell-biologic action

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mahl, Dirk; Diendorf, Jörg; Ristig, Simon; Greulich, Christina; Li, Zi-An; Farle, Michael; Köller, Manfred; Epple, Matthias

    2012-10-01

    Silver, gold, and silver-gold-alloy nanoparticles were prepared by citrate reduction modified by the addition of tannin during the synthesis, leading to a reduction in particle size by a factor of three. Nanoparticles can be prepared by this easy water-based synthesis and subsequently functionalized by the addition of either tris(3-sulfonatophenyl)phosphine or poly( N-vinylpyrrolidone). The resulting nanoparticles of silver (diameter 15-25 nm), gold (5-6 nm), and silver-gold (50:50; 10-12 nm) were easily dispersable in water and also in cell culture media (RPMI + 10 % fetal calf serum), as shown by nanoparticle tracking analysis and differential centrifugal sedimentation. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy showed a polycrystalline nature of all nanoparticles. EDX on single silver-gold nanoparticles indicated that the concentration of gold is higher inside a nanoparticle. The biologic action of the nanoparticles toward human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) was different: Silver nanoparticles showed a significant concentration-dependent influence on the viability of hMSC. Gold nanoparticles showed only a small effect on the viability of hMSC after 7 days. Surprisingly, silver-gold nanoparticles had no significant influence on the viability of hMSC despite the silver content. Silver nanoparticles and silver-gold nanoparticles in the concentration range of 5-20 μg mL-1 induced the activation of hMSC as indicated by the release of IL-8. In contrast, gold nanoparticles led to a reduction of the release of IL-6 and IL-8.

  11. Acute toxicity of virgin and used engine oil enriched with copper nano particles in the earthworm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khodabandeh, M.; Koohi, M. K.; Roshani, A.; Shahroziyan, E.; Badri, B.; Pourfallah, A.; Shams, Gh; Hobbenaghi, R.; Sadeghi-Hashjin, G.

    2011-07-01

    In spite of development of nanotechnology and creation of new opportunities for industry, new applications and products initiated by this technology may cause harmful effects on human health and environment. Unfortunately, there is no sufficient information on the harmful effects caused by application of some nano materials; the current knowledge in this field is limited solely to the nano particles but not the final products. Nano cupper particles, as one of the common materials produced in industrial scale is widely used as additives into engine oil to reduce friction and improve lubrication. However, the difference between the effects of virgin and used conventional engine oil (CEO) and the engine oil containing cupper nano particles (NEO) on the environment is not known. Earthworm, as a one of the species which could live and survive in different sorts of earth and has a certain role in protecting the soil structure and fertility, was used in this experiment. In accordance with the recommended method of OECD.1984, Filter Paper test in 24 and 48 h based on 8 concentrations in the range of 3×10-3 - 24×10-3 ml/cm2 and Artificial Soil test in 7 and 14 days based on 7 concentrations in the range of 0.1 mg/kg - 100 g/kg were carried out to study earthworms in terms of lifetime (LC50), morphology and pathology. It was shown that the 48 h LC50 for virgin CEO, virgin NEO, used CEO(8000 km) and used NEO (8000 km) were 6×10-3, 23×10-3, 24×10-3 and 16×10-3 ml/cm2 respectively. Furthermore, 14-day LC50 in artificial soil for all cases were above 100 g/kg. It is concluded that virgin CEO is more toxic than virgin NEO. Meanwhile, the CEO shows significant reduction in toxicity after consumption and the used NEO shows more toxicity in comparison to virgin product. It seems that more investigations on the effects of final products specifically after consumption is necessary because the products after consumption have the most contact with environment and subsequently

  12. Promising upshot of silver nanoparticles primed from Gracilaria crassa against bacterial pathogens.

    PubMed

    Lavakumar, V; Masilamani, K; Ravichandiran, V; Venkateshan, N; Saigopal, D V R; Ashok Kumar, C K; Sowmya, C

    2015-01-01

    The study on newer antimicrobial agent from metal based nano materials has augmented in recent years for the management of multidrug resistance microorganisms. In our present investigation, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNP's) from red algae, Gracilaria crassa as beginning material which effectively condensed the silver ions to silver nanoparticles with less price tag and no risk. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by simple reaction of 1 mM AgNO3 with G. crassa extracts at room temperature. The fabricated AgNP's were subjected for characterization and screened against various microorganisms for antibacterial activity. UV-Vis spectroscopy (200-800 nm), XRD, FESEM and EDAX, were performed for AgNP's. UV-Vis spectroscopy demonstrated the absorption edge at 443 nm and EDAX pattern is purely due to the particle size and face centered cubic (fcc) symmetry of nanoparticles. Average size lays at 122.7 nm and zeta potential was found to be -34.9 mV. The antibacterial outcome of synthesized AgNP's (at the dose of 20 and 40 µg/ml) was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The mechanism of synthesized AgNP's bactericidal bustle is discussed in terms of interaction with the cell membrane of bacteria. The activity was found to be sky-scraping in a dose dependent manner. Thus, environmental friendly, cost effective, non hazardous stable nanoparticles were prepared by green synthesis using red algae, G. crassa. Synthesized G. crassa AgNP's were in acceptable size and shape. Further, it elicits better bactericidal activity against microorganism. This will assure the out put of superior antibacterial formulation for near future.

  13. Synthesis and antibacterial activity of water-dispersible silver nanoparticles via micellar nanoreactors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pofali, Prasad; Shirolikar, Seema; Borde, Lalit; Pattani, Aditya; Dandekar, Prajakta; Jain, Ratnesh

    2018-04-01

    We have synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using micelles of sugar fatty acid ester by dissolving the surfactant in a mixture of iso-octane and n-butanol, with solid-liquid extraction. Highly concentrated, water-dispersible AgNPs were obtained after thorough washing with alcohol, to remove excess of sucrose fatty acid ester DK SS and salt, followed by drying. The particles were characterized for their size, morphology and crystallinity using UV-Visible spectrophotometry, Transmission Electron Microscopy and x-ray diffractometry. Antibacterial study, confirmed the activity of nanoparticles against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, which causes diseases including diarrhoea and several life-threatening infections. Antibacterial activity of E. coli and P. aeruginosa was found to be 2.5 fold and for S. aureus 1.6 fold compared to 50 ppm conc. of Silver Nitrate. Our method of producing nanoparticles is employed as a platform technology for synthesizing other inorganic nanoparticles. This is the first report discussing the use of micellar carriers for obtaining silver nanopowder, to the best of our knowledge, which has the potential to overcome limitations during fabrication of AgNPs using reverse/inverse micelles. Our method yielded nano-sized, water-dispersible AgNPs via an easy and economic approach. The one-pot approach possesses advantages in terms of cost and simplicity, as compared with traditional methods of producing powdered AgNPs using energy intensive and expensive techniques like lyophilisation. The developed method, thus, possesses immense potential for commercial synthesis of AgNPs.

  14. Modulation of mesenchymal stem cell behavior by nano- and micro-sized β-tricalcium phosphate particles in suspension and composite structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smoak, Mollie; Hogan, Katie; Kriegh, Lisa; Chen, Cong; Terrell, LeKeith B.; Qureshi, Ammar T.; Todd Monroe, W.; Gimble, Jeffrey M.; Hayes, Daniel J.

    2015-04-01

    Interest has grown in the use of microparticles and nanoparticles for modifying the mechanical and biological properties of synthetic bone composite structures. Micro- and nano-sized calcium phosphates are of interest for their osteoinductive behavior. Engineered composites incorporating polymers and ceramics, such as poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), for bone tissue regeneration have been well investigated for their proliferative and osteoinductive abilities. Only limited research has been done to investigate the effects of different sizes of β-TCP particles on human mesenchymal stromal cell behavior. As such, the aim of this study was to investigate the modulations of human adipose-derived stem cell (hASCs) behavior within cell/particle and cell/composite systems as functions of particle size, concentration, and exposure time. The incorporation of nanoscale calcium phosphate resulted in improved mechanical properties and osteogenic behavior within the scaffold compared to the microscale calcium phosphate additives. Particle exposure results indicate that cytotoxicity on hASCs correlates inversely with particle size and increases with the increasing exposure time and particle concentration. Composites with increasing β-TCP content, whether microparticles or nanoparticles, were less toxic than colloidal micro- and nano-sized β-TCP particles directly supplied to hASCs. The difference in viability observed as a result of varying exposure route is likely related to the increased cell-particle interactions in the direct exposure compared to the particles becoming trapped within the scaffold/polymer matrix.

  15. New insights into micro/nanoscale combined probes (nanoAuger, μXPS) to characterize Ag/Au@SiO2 core-shell assemblies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ledeuil, J. B.; Uhart, A.; Soulé, S.; Allouche, J.; Dupin, J. C.; Martinez, H.

    2014-09-01

    This work has examined the elemental distribution and local morphology at the nanoscale of core@shell Ag/Au@SiO2 particles. The characterization of such complex metal/insulator materials becomes more efficient when using an initial cross-section method of preparation of the core@shell nanoparticles (ion milling cross polisher). The originality of this route of preparation allows one to obtain undamaged, well-defined and planar layers of cross-cut nano-objects. Once combined with high-resolution techniques of characterization (XPS, Auger and SEM), the process appears as a powerful way to minimize charging effects and enhance the outcoming electron signal (potentially affected by the topography of the material) during analysis. SEM experiments have unambiguously revealed the hollow-morphology of the metal core, while Auger spectroscopy observations showed chemical heterogeneity within the particles (as silver and gold are randomly found in the core ring). To our knowledge, this is the first time that Auger nano probe spectroscopy has been used and successfully optimized for the study of some complex metal/inorganic interfaces at such a high degree of resolution (~12 nm). Complementarily, XPS Au 4f and Ag 3d peaks were finally detected attesting the possibility of access to the whole chemistry of such nanostructured assemblies.This work has examined the elemental distribution and local morphology at the nanoscale of core@shell Ag/Au@SiO2 particles. The characterization of such complex metal/insulator materials becomes more efficient when using an initial cross-section method of preparation of the core@shell nanoparticles (ion milling cross polisher). The originality of this route of preparation allows one to obtain undamaged, well-defined and planar layers of cross-cut nano-objects. Once combined with high-resolution techniques of characterization (XPS, Auger and SEM), the process appears as a powerful way to minimize charging effects and enhance the outcoming

  16. The electrodeposition of silver composites using deep eutectic solvents.

    PubMed

    Abbott, Andrew P; El Ttaib, Khalid; Frisch, Gero; Ryder, Karl S; Weston, David

    2012-02-21

    Silver is an important metal for electronic connectors, however, it is extremely soft and wear can be a significant issue. This paper describes how improved wear resistant silver coatings can be obtained from the electrolytic deposition of silver from a solution of AgCl in an ethylene glycol/choline chloride based Deep Eutectic Solvent. An up to 10-fold decrease in the wear volume is observed by the incorporation of SiC or Al(2)O(3) particles. The work also addresses the fundamental aspect of speciation of silver chloride in solution using EXAFS to probe solution structure. The size but not the nature of the composite particles is seen to change the morphology and grain size of the silver deposit. Grain sizes are shown to be consistent with previous nucleation studies. The addition of LiF is found to significantly affect the deposit morphology and improve wear resistance.

  17. Investigation on Tc tuned nano particles of magnetic oxides for hyperthermia applications.

    PubMed

    Giri, Jyotsnendu; Ray, Amlan; Dasgupta, S; Datta, D; Bahadur, D

    2003-01-01

    Superparamagnetic as well as fine ferrimagnetic particles such as Fe3O4, have been extensively used in magnetic field induced localized hyperthermia for the treatment of cancer. The magnetic materials with Curie temperature (Tc) between 42 and 50 degrees C, with sufficient biocompatibility are the best candidates for effective treatment such that during therapy it acts as in vivo temperature control switch and thus over heating could be avoided. Ultrafine particles of substituted ferrite Co(1-a)Zn(a)Fe2O4 and substituted yttrium-iron garnet Y3Fe(5-x)Al(x)O12 have been prepared through microwave refluxing and citrate-gel route respectively. Single-phase compounds were obtained with particle size below 100 nm. In order to make these magnetic nano particles biocompatible, we have attempted to coat these above said composition by alumina. The coating of alumina was done by hydrolysis method. The coating of hydrous aluminium oxide has been done over the magnetic particles by aging the preformed solid particles in the solution of aluminium sulfate and formamide at elevated temperatures. In vitro study is carried out to verify the innocuousness of coated materials towards cells. In vitro biocompatibility study has been carried out by cell culture method for a period of three days using human WBC cell lines. Study of cell counts and SEM images indicates the cells viability/growth. The in vitro experiments show that the coated materials are biocompatible.

  18. Synthesis and optical properties of silver nanoparticles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Singh, Jaiveer; Kaurav, Netram, E-mail: netramkaurav@yahoo.co.uk; Choudhary, K. K.

    The preparation of stable, uniform silver nanoparticles by reduction of silver acetate by ethylene glycol (EG) is reported in the present paper. It is a simple process of recent interest for obtaining silver nanoparticles. The samples were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), which reveals an average particle size (D) of 38 nm. The UV/Vis spectra show that an absorption peak, occurring due to surface plasmon resonance (SPR), exists at 319 nm.

  19. Maple leaf (Acer sp.) extract mediated green process for the functionalization of ZnO powders with silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Vivekanandhan, Singaravelu; Schreiber, Makoto; Mason, Cynthia; Mohanty, Amar Kumar; Misra, Manjusri

    2014-01-01

    The functionalization of ZnO powders with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through a novel maple leaf extract mediated biological process was demonstrated. Maple leaf extract was found to be a very effective bioreduction agent for the reduction of silver ions. The reduction rate of Ag(+) into Ag(0) was found to be much faster than other previously reported bioreduction rates and was comparable to the reduction rates obtained through chemical means. The functionalization of ZnO particles with silver nanoparticles through maple leaf extract mediated bioreduction of silver was investigated through UV-visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction analysis. It was found that the ZnO particles were coated with silver nanoparticles 5-20 nm in diameter. The photocatalytic ability of the ZnO particles functionalized with silver nanoparticles was found to be significantly improved compared to the photocatalytic ability of the neat ZnO particles. The silver functionalized ZnO particles reached 90% degradation of the dye an hour before the neat ZnO particles. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Detection of colloidal silver chloride near solubility limit

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Putri, K. Y.; Adawiah, R.

    2018-03-01

    Detection of nanoparticles in solution has been made possible by several means; one of them is laser-induced breakdown detection (LIBD). LIBD is able to distinguish colloids of various sizes and concentrations. This technique has been used in several solubility studies. In this study, the formation of colloids in a mixed system of silver nitrate and sodium chloride was observed by acoustic LIBD. Silver chloride has low solubility limit, therefore LIBD measurement is appropriate. Silver and chloride solutions with equal concentrations, set at below and above the solubility of silver chloride as the expected solid product, were mixed and the resulting colloids were observed. The result of LIBD measurement showed that larger particles were present as more silver and chloride introduced. However, once the concentrations exceeded the solubility limit of silver chloride, the detected particle size seemed to be decreasing, hence suggested the occurrence of coprecipitation process. This phenomenon indicated that the ability of LIBD to detect even small changes in colloid amounts might be a useful tool in study on formation and stability of colloids, i.e. to confirm whether nanoparticles synthesis has been successfully performed and whether the system is stable or not.

  1. Polyelectrolyte mediated nano hybrid particle as a nano-sensor with outstandingly amplified specificity and sensitivity for enzyme free estimation of cholesterol.

    PubMed

    Chebl, Mazhar; Moussa, Zeinab; Peurla, Markus; Patra, Digambara

    2017-07-01

    As a proof of concept, here it is established that curcumin integrated chitosan oligosaccharide lactate (COL) self-assembles on silica nanoparticle surface to form nano hybrid particles (NHPs). These NHPs have size in the ranges of 25-35nm with silica nanoparticle as its core and curcumin-COL as outer layer having thickness of 4-8nm. The fluorescence intensity of these NHPs are found to be quenched and emission maximum is ~50nm red shifted compared to free curcumin implying inner filter effect and/or homo-FRET between curcumin molecules present on the surface of individual nano hybrid particle. Although fluorescence of free curcumin is remarkably quenched by Hg 2+ /Cu 2+ ions due to chelation through keto-enol form, the fluorescence of NHPs is unaffected by Hg 2+ /Cu 2+ ion that boosts analytical selectivity. The fluorescence intensity is outstandingly enhanced in the presence of cholesterol but is not influenced by ascorbic acid, uric acid, glucose, albumin, lipid and other potential interfering substances that either obstruct during enzymatic reaction or affect fluorescence of free curcumin. Thus, NHPs outstandingly improve analytical specificity, selectivity and sensitivity during cholesterol estimation compared to free curcumin. The interaction between cholesterol and NHPs is found to be a combination of ground state electrostatic interaction through the free hydroxyl group of cholesterol along with hydrophobic interaction between NHPs and cholesterol and excited state interaction. The proposed cholesterol biosensor illustrates a wider linear dynamic range, 0.002-10mmolL -1 , (upper limit is due to lack of solubility of cholesterol) needed for biomedical application and better than reported values during enzymatic reaction. In addition, the NHPs are found to be photo-stable potentially making it suitable for simple, quick and cost-effective cholesterol estimation and opening an alternative approach other than enzymatic reaction using nano hybrid structure to

  2. Facile green synthesis of silver doped fluor-hydroxyapatite/β-cyclodextrin nanocomposite in the dual acting fluorine-containing ionic liquid medium for bone substitute applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jegatheeswaran, S.; Selvam, S.; Sri Ramkumar, V.; Sundrarajan, M.

    2016-05-01

    A novel green route has approached for the synthesis of silver doped fluor-hydroxyapatite/β-cyclodextrin composite by the assistance of fluorine-based ionic liquid. The selected [BMIM]BF4 ionic liquid for this work plays a dual role as fluoride source and templating agent. It helps to improve the crystalline structures and the shape of the composites. The crystallinity, surface morphology, topographical studies of the synthesized composite were validated. The XRD results of the composite show typical Ag reflection peaks at 38.1°, 44.2° and 63.4°. The ionic liquid assisted composite displayed the hexagonal shaped HA particles, which are surrounded by spherical nano-Ag particles and these particles are uniformly dispersed in the β-cyclodextrin matrix in both horizontal and cross sections from surface morphology observations. The Ionic liquid assisted silver doped fluor-hydroxyapatite/β-cyclodextrin composite exhibited very good antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumonia and Serratia liquefaciens pathogens. The antibacterial proficiencies were established using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopic developed biofilms images and bacterial growth curve analysis. The cytotoxicity results of the ionic liquid assisted composite analyzed by cell proliferation in vitro studies using human osteosarcoma cell line (MG-63) and this study has shown excellent biocompatibility.

  3. Silver distribution and release from an antimicrobial denture base resin containing silver colloidal nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Monteiro, Douglas Roberto; Gorup, Luiz Fernando; Takamiya, Aline Satie; de Camargo, Emerson Rodrigues; Filho, Adhemar Colla Ruvolo; Barbosa, Debora Barros

    2012-01-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate a denture base resin containing silver colloidal nanoparticles through morphological analysis to check the distribution and dispersion of these particles in the polymer and by testing the silver release in deionized water at different time periods. A Lucitone 550 denture resin was used, and silver nanoparticles were synthesized by reduction of silver nitrate with sodium citrate. The acrylic resin was prepared in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions, and silver nanoparticle suspension was added to the acrylic resin monomer in different concentrations (0.05, 0.5, and 5 vol% silver colloidal). Controls devoid of silver nanoparticles were included. The specimens were stored in deionized water at 37°C for 7, 15, 30, 60, and 120 days, and each solution was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Silver was not detected in deionized water regardless of the silver nanoparticles added to the resin and of the storage period. Micrographs showed that with lower concentrations, the distribution of silver nanoparticles was reduced, whereas their dispersion was improved in the polymer. Moreover, after 120 days of storage, nanoparticles were mainly located on the surface of the nanocomposite specimens. Incorporation of silver nanoparticles in the acrylic resin was evidenced. Moreover, silver was not detected by the detection limit of the atomic absorption spectrophotometer used in this study, even after 120 days of storage in deionized water. Silver nanoparticles are incorporated in the PMMA denture resin to attain an effective antimicrobial material to help control common infections involving oral mucosal tissues in complete denture wearers. © 2011 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

  4. Procedure optimization for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by aqueous extract of Eucalyptus oleosa.

    PubMed

    Pourmortazavi, Seied Mahdi; Taghdiri, Mehdi; Makari, Vajihe; Rahimi-Nasrabadi, Mehdi

    2015-02-05

    The present study is dealing with the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Eucalyptus oleosa as a green synthesis procedure without any catalyst, template or surfactant. Colloidal silver nanoparticles were synthesized by reacting aqueous AgNO3 with E. oleosa leaf extract at non-photomediated conditions. The significance of some synthesis conditions such as: silver nitrate concentration, concentration of the plant extract, time of synthesis reaction and temperature of plant extraction procedure on the particle size of synthesized silver particles was investigated and optimized. The participations of the studied factors in controlling the particle size of reduced silver were quantitatively evaluated via analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results of this investigation showed that silver nanoparticles could be synthesized by tuning significant parameters, while performing the synthesis procedure at optimum conditions leads to form silver nanoparticles with 21nm as averaged size. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy was used to monitor the development of silver nanoparticles formation. Meanwhile, produced silver nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, and FT-IR techniques. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Laser synthesis and spectroscopy of acetonitrile/silver nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akin, S. T.; Liu, X.; Duncan, M. A.

    2015-11-01

    Silver nanoparticles with acetonitrile ligands are produced in a laser ablation flow reactor. Excimer laser ablation produces gas phase metal clusters which are thermalized with helium or argon collisions in the flowtube, and reactions with acetonitrile vapor coordinate this ligand to the particle surface. The gaseous mixture is captured in a cryogenic trap; warming produces a solution of excess ligand and coated particles. TEM images reveal particle sizes of 10-30 nm diameter. UV-vis absorption and fluorescence spectra are compared to those of standard silver nanoparticles with surfactant coatings. Deep-UV ligand absorption is strongly enhanced by nanoparticle adsorption.

  6. An environmentally benign antimicrobial nanoparticle based on a silver-infused lignin core.

    PubMed

    Richter, Alexander P; Brown, Joseph S; Bharti, Bhuvnesh; Wang, Amy; Gangwal, Sumit; Houck, Keith; Cohen Hubal, Elaine A; Paunov, Vesselin N; Stoyanov, Simeon D; Velev, Orlin D

    2015-09-01

    Silver nanoparticles have antibacterial properties, but their use has been a cause for concern because they persist in the environment. Here, we show that lignin nanoparticles infused with silver ions and coated with a cationic polyelectrolyte layer form a biodegradable and green alternative to silver nanoparticles. The polyelectrolyte layer promotes the adhesion of the particles to bacterial cell membranes and, together with silver ions, can kill a broad spectrum of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and quaternary-amine-resistant Ralstonia sp. Ion depletion studies have shown that the bioactivity of these nanoparticles is time-limited because of the desorption of silver ions. High-throughput bioactivity screening did not reveal increased toxicity of the particles when compared to an equivalent mass of metallic silver nanoparticles or silver nitrate solution. Our results demonstrate that the application of green chemistry principles may allow the synthesis of nanoparticles with biodegradable cores that have higher antimicrobial activity and smaller environmental impact than metallic silver nanoparticles.

  7. Antimicrobial effect, frictional resistance, and surface roughness of stainless steel orthodontic brackets coated with nanofilms of silver and titanium oxide: a preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Ghasemi, Tania; Arash, Valiollah; Rabiee, Sayed Mahmood; Rajabnia, Ramazan; Pourzare, Amirhosein; Rakhshan, Vahid

    2017-06-01

    Nano-silver and nano-titanium oxide films can be coated over brackets in order to reduce bacterial aggregation and friction. However, their antimicrobial efficacy, surface roughness, and frictional resistance are not assessed before. Fifty-five stainless-steel brackets were divided into 5 groups of 11 brackets each: uncoated brackets, brackets coated with 60 µm silver, 100 µm silver, 60 µm titanium, and 100 µm titanium. Coating was performed using physical vapor deposition method. For friction test, three brackets from each group were randomly selected and tested. For scanning electron microscopy and atomic-force microscopy assessments, one and one brackets were selected from each group. For antibacterial assessment, six brackets were selected from each group. Of them, three were immediately subjected to direct contact with S. mutans. Colonies were counted 3, 6, 24, and 48 h of contact. The other three were stored in water for 3 months. Then were subjected to a similar direct contact test. Results pertaining to both subgroups were combined. Groups were compared statistically. Mean (SD) friction values of the groups 'control, silver-60, silver-100, titanium-60, and titanium-100' were 0.55 ± 0.14, 0.77 ± 0.08, 0.82 ± 0.11, 1.52 ± 0.24, and 1.57 ± 0.41 N, respectively (p = .0004, Kruskal-Wallis). Titanium frictions were significantly greater than control (p < .05), but silver groups were not (p > .05, Dunn). In the uncoated group, colony count increased exponentially within 48 h. The coated groups showed significant reductions in colony count (p < .05, two-way-repeated-measures ANOVA). In conclusions, all four explained coatings reduce surface roughness and bacterial growth. Nano-titanium films are not suitable for friction reduction. Nano-silver results were not conclusive and need future larger studies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Self-limiting atomic layer deposition of conformal nanostructured silver films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Golrokhi, Zahra; Chalker, Sophia; Sutcliffe, Christopher J.; Potter, Richard J.

    2016-02-01

    The controlled deposition of ultra-thin conformal silver nanoparticle films is of interest for applications including anti-microbial surfaces, plasmonics, catalysts and sensors. While numerous techniques can produce silver nanoparticles, few are able to produce highly conformal coatings on high aspect ratio surfaces, together with sub-nanometre control and scalability. Here we develop a self-limiting atomic layer deposition (ALD) process for the deposition of conformal metallic silver nanoparticle films. The films have been deposited using direct liquid injection ALD with ((hexafluoroacetylacetonato)silver(I)(1,5-cyclooctadiene)) and propan-1-ol. An ALD temperature window between 123 and 128 °C is identified and within this range self-limiting growth is confirmed with a mass deposition rate of ∼17.5 ng/cm2/cycle. The effects of temperature, precursor dose, co-reactant dose and cycle number on the deposition rate and on the properties of the films have been systematically investigated. Under self-limiting conditions, films are metallic silver with a nano-textured surface topography and nanoparticle size is dependent on the number of ALD cycles. The ALD reaction mechanisms have been elucidated using in-situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) measurements, showing chemisorption of the silver precursor, followed by heterogeneous catalytic dehydrogenation of the alcohol to form metallic silver and an aldehyde.

  9. A novel cetyltrimethyl ammonium silver bromide complex and silver bromide nanoparticles obtained by the surfactant counterion.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xian-Hao; Luo, Xiao-Hong; Lu, Shu-Xia; Zhang, Jing-Chang; Cao, Wei-Liang

    2007-03-01

    A novel cetyltrimethyl ammonium silver bromide (CTASB) complex has been prepared simply through the reaction of silver nitrate with cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) in aqueous solution at room temperature by controlling the concentration of CTAB and the molar ratio of CTAB to silver nitrate in the reaction solution, in which halogen in CTAB is used as surfactant counterion. The structure and thermal behavior of cetyltrimethyl ammonium silver bromide have been investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV/vis spectroscopy, thermal analysis (TG-DTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the complex possesses a metastable layered structure. Upon heating the CTASB aqueous dispersion to above 80 degrees C, the structure change of the complex took place and CTAB-capped nanosized silver bromide particles further formed.

  10. Chitosan-hyaluronic acid/nano silver composite sponges for drug resistant bacteria infected diabetic wounds.

    PubMed

    Anisha, B S; Biswas, Raja; Chennazhi, K P; Jayakumar, R

    2013-11-01

    The aim of this work was to develop an antimicrobial sponge composed of chitosan, hyaluronic acid (HA) and nano silver (nAg) as a wound dressing for diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) infected with drug resistant bacteria. nAg (5-20 nm) was prepared and characterized. The nanocomposite sponges were prepared by homogenous mixing of chitosan, HA and nAg followed by freeze drying to obtain a flexible and porous structure. The prepared sponges were characterized using SEM and FT-IR. The porosity, swelling, biodegradation and haemostatic potential of the sponges were also studied. Antibacterial activity of the prepared sponges was analysed using Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia. Chitosan-HA/nAg composite sponges showed potent antimicrobial property against the tested organisms. Sponges containing higher nAg (0.005%, 0.01% and 0.02%) concentrations showed antibacterial activity against MRSA. Cytotoxicity and cell attachment studies were done using human dermal fibroblast cells. The nanocomposite sponges showed a nAg concentration dependent toxicity towards fibroblast cells. Our results suggest that this nanocomposite sponges could be used as a potential material for wound dressing for DFU infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria if the optimal concentration of nAg exhibiting antibacterial action with least toxicity towards mammalian cells is identified. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Nano-magnetic particles used in biomedicine: core and coating materials.

    PubMed

    Karimi, Z; Karimi, L; Shokrollahi, H

    2013-07-01

    Magnetic nanoparticles for medical applications have been developed by many researchers. Separation, immunoassay, drug delivery, magnetic resonance imaging and hyperthermia are enhanced by the use of suitable magnetic nanoparticles and coating materials in the form of ferrofluids. Due to their low biocompatibility and low dispersion in water solutions, nanoparticles that are used for biomedical applications require surface treatment. Various kinds of coating materials including organic materials (polymers), inorganic metals (gold, platinum) or metal oxides (aluminum oxide, cobalt oxide) have been attracted during the last few years. Based on the recent advances and the importance of nanomedicine in human life, this paper attempts to give a brief summary on the different ferrite nano-magnetic particles and coatings used in nanomedicine. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Agglomeration of nano- and microplastic particles in seawater by autochthonous and de novo-produced sources of exopolymeric substances.

    PubMed

    Summers, Stephen; Henry, Theodore; Gutierrez, Tony

    2018-05-01

    Microplastics (<5 mm) have often been studied under in-vitro conditions where plastics have been investigated in isolation. However, in the natural environment microplastics readily form agglomerates conferring the particles with properties different to their pristine counterparts. Here, we examined the interaction of exopolymers with polystyrene nanoplastics and microplastics. Formation of plastic agglomerates was examined using simulated sea surface conditions. Flow cytometry coupled with microscopy revealed that nano- and microplastic particle spheres form agglomerates in seawater with a mucilagenous material and an associated microbial community. To characterise this material, differential staining methods revealed it to be glycoprotein in composition. Exposing increasing concentrations of a marine bacterial glycoprotein EPS to nano- or microplastics revealed that these types of polymers contribute to the formation and abundance of plastic agglomerates. This work highlights the importance of EPS on the fate of plastic and future research should take this into account when evaluating the impact of plastics. Crown Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. [Nano-particles--pharmaceutical "dwarves" with know-how].

    PubMed

    Ziegler, Andreas S

    2008-12-01

    Self-cleaning surface coatings, tooth paste with repair effect, mini fuel cells and extremely small data memories, which contain the knowledge of whole libraries: After "micro" in the 1980ies and "electronic" in the 1990ies, "nano" is the technological keyword of this decade. The new nano-materials fascinate laymen and experts alike. Also in pharmacy the advance into dimensions unattainable so far, paved the way for the formulation of new pharmaceutical preparations. The nanotechnology offers innovative answers to previously unresolved galenic and/or biopharmaceutical questions and offers unexpected possibilities for drug targeting.

  14. Estimates of micro-, nano-, and picoplankton contributions to particle export in the northeast Pacific

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mackinson, B. L.; Moran, S. B.; Lomas, M. W.; Stewart, G. M.; Kelly, R. P.

    2015-06-01

    The contributions of micro-, nano-, and picoplankton to particle export were estimated from measurements of size-fractionated particulate 234Th, organic carbon, and phytoplankton indicator pigments obtained during five cruises between 2010 and 2012 along Line P in the subarctic northeast Pacific Ocean. Sinking fluxes of particulate organic carbon (POC) and indicator pigments were calculated from 234Th-238U disequilibria and, during two cruises, measured by a sediment trap at Ocean Station Papa. POC fluxes at 100 m ranged from 0.65 to 7.95 mmol m-2 d-1, similar in magnitude to previous results at Line P. Microplankton pigments dominate indicator pigment fluxes (averaging 69 ± 19% of total pigment flux), while nanoplankton pigments comprised the majority of pigment standing stocks (averaging 64 ± 23% of total pigment standing stocks). Indicator pigment loss rates (the ratio of pigment export flux to pigment standing stocks) point to preferential export of larger microplankton relative to smaller nano- and picoplankton. However, indicator pigments do not quantitatively trace particle export resulting from zooplankton grazing, which may be an important pathway for the export of small phytoplankton. These results have important implications for understanding the magnitude and mechanisms controlling the biological pump at Line P in particular, and more generally in oligotrophic gyres and high-nutrient, low-chlorophyll (HNLC) regions where small phytoplankton represent a major component of the autotrophic community.

  15. Estimates of micro-, nano-, and picoplankton contributions to particle export in the northeast Pacific

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mackinson, B. L.; Moran, S. B.; Lomas, M. W.; Stewart, G. M.; Kelly, R. P.

    2014-08-01

    The contributions of micro-, nano-, and picoplankton to particle export were estimated from measurements of size-fractionated particulate 234Th, organic carbon, and phytoplankton indicator pigments obtained during five cruises between 2010 and 2012 along Line P in the subarctic northeast Pacific Ocean. Sinking fluxes of particulate organic carbon (POC) and indicator pigments were calculated from 234Th-238U disequilibria and, during two cruises, measured by sediment trap at Ocean Station Papa. POC fluxes at 100 m ranged from 0.65-7.95 mmol m-2 d-1, similar in magnitude to previous results at Line P. Microplankton pigments dominate indicator pigment fluxes (averaging 69 ± 19% of total pigment flux), while nanoplankton pigments comprised the majority of pigment standing stocks (averaging 64 ± 23% of total pigment standing stock). Indicator pigment loss rates (the ratio of pigment export flux to pigment standing stock) point to preferential export of larger microplankton relative to smaller nano- and picoplankton. However, indicator pigments do not quantitatively trace particle export resulting from zooplankton grazing, which may be an important pathway for the export of small phytoplankton. These results have important implications for understanding the magnitude and mechanisms controlling the biological pump at Line P in particular, and more generally in oligotrophic gyres and high-nutrient, low-chlorophyll regions where small phytoplankton represent a major component of the autotrophic community.

  16. Can a novel silver nano coating reduce infections and maintain cell viability in vitro?

    PubMed

    Qureshi, Ammar T; Landry, Jace P; Dasa, Vinod; Janes, Marlene; Hayes, Daniel J

    2014-03-01

    Herein we report a facile layer-by-layer method for creating an antimicrobial coating composed of silver nanoparticles on medical grade titanium test discs. Nanoscale silver nanoparticle layers are attached to the titanium orthopedic implant material via aminopropyltriethoxy silane crosslinker that reacts with neighboring silane moieties to create an interconnected network. A monolayer of silane, followed by a monolayer of silver nanoparticles would form one self-assembled layer and this process can be repeated serially, resulting in increased silver nanoparticles deposition. The release rate of silver ion increases predictably with increasing numbers of layers and at appropriate thicknesses these coatings demonstrate 3-4 log reduction of viable Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Increasing the thickness of the coatings resulted in reduced bacterial colonization as determined by fluorescent staining and image analysis. Interestingly, the cytotoxicity of murine 3T3 cells as quantified by fluorescent staining and flow cytometry, was minimal and did not vary significantly with the coating thickness. Additionally, these coatings are mechanically stable and resist delamination by orthogonal stress test. This simple layer-by-layer coating technique may provide a cost-effective and biocompatible method for reducing microbial colonization of implantable orthopedic devices.

  17. Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of nano lead(II) coordination polymer as precursors for preparation of lead(II) oxide nano-structures: Thermal, optical properties and XRD studies.

    PubMed

    Ghavidelaghdam, Elham; Shahverdizadeh, Gholam Hossein; Motameni Tabatabai, Javad; Mirtamizdoust, Babak

    2018-04-01

    Nano structure of a lead (II) coordination polymer [Pb 2 (C 2 Cl 3 O 2 ) 2 (NO 3 ) 2 (C l2 H 8 N 2 ) 2 ] n (1), has been synthesized by a sonochemical method in different concentrations. The nano particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), FT-IR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The thermal stability of nano structure is closely investigated via thermal gravimetric (TGA), and compared with crystalline structure. The compounds are then heated to 600 °C to produce PbO nano particles. The resulting PbO is characterized through XRD and SEM analyses. Concentration of initial reagents effects on size and morphology of nano-structured compound 1 have been studied and show that low concentrations of initial reagents decreased particles size and leaded to uniform nano particles morphology. The photoluminescence properties of the prepared compound, as crystalline and as nanoparticles, have been investigated. The result showed a good correlation between the size and emission wavelength. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  18. Nanomaterial Case Study: Nanoscale Silver in Disinfectant ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This draft document presents a case study of engineered nanoscale silver (nano-Ag), focusing on the specific example of nano-Ag as possibly used in disinfectant sprays. This case study is organized around a comprehensive environmental assessment (CEA) framework, which combines a product life-cycle perspective with the risk assessment paradigm. The document does not draw conclusions about potential risks. Instead, it is intended to be used as part of a process to identify what is known and unknown about nano-Ag in a selected application and can be used as a starting point to identify and prioritize possible research directions to support future assessments of nanomaterials. The information presented in the case study and the questions raised in this document are a foundation for a process to determine priorities among various research topics and directions. After that process has been completed, a final chapter will be added to this document to summarize highlights from preceding chapters and the major research issues that have emerged.

  19. Characteristic of nanoparticles generated from different nano-powders by using different dispersion methods

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tsai, Chuen-Jinn; Lin, Guan-Yu; Liu, Chun-Nan; He, Chi-En; Chen, Chun-Wan

    2012-03-01

    A standard rotating drum with a modified sampling train (RD), a vortex shaker (VS), and a SSPD (small-scale powder disperser) were used to investigate the emission characteristics of nano-powders, including nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2, primary diameter: 21 nm), nano-zinc oxide (nano-ZnO, primary diameter: 30-50 nm), and nano-silicon dioxide (nano-SiO2, primary diameter: 10-30 nm). A TSI SMPS (scanning mobility particle sizer), a TSI APS (aerodynamic particle sizer), and a MSP MOUDI (micro-orifice uniform deposit impactor) were used to measure the number and mass distributions of generated particles. Significant differences in specific number and mass concentration or distributions were found among different methods and nano-powders with the most specific number and mass concentration and the smallest particles being generated by the most energetic SSPD, followed by VS and RD. Near uni-modal number or mass distributions were observed for the SSPD while bi-modal number or mass distributions existed for nano-powders except nano-SiO2 which also exhibited bimodal mass distributions. The 30-min average results showed that the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) and number median diameter (NMD) of the SSPD ranged 1.1-2.1 μm and 166-261 nm, respectively, for all three nano-powders, which were smaller than those of the VS (MMAD: 3.3-6.0 μm and NMD: 156-462 nm), and the RD (MMAD: 5.2-11.2 μm and NMD: 198-479 nm). For nano-particles (electric mobility diameter < 100 nm), specific mass concentrations were nearly negligible for all three nano-powders and test methods. Specific number concentrations of nano-particles were low for the RD tester but were elevated when more energetic VS and SSPD testers were used. The quantitative size and concentration data obtained in this study is useful to elucidate the field emission and personal exposure data in the future provided that particle loss in the generation system is carefully assessed.

  20. Beam energy considerations for gold nano-particle enhanced radiation treatment.

    PubMed

    Van den Heuvel, F; Locquet, Jean-Pierre; Nuyts, S

    2010-08-21

    A novel approach using nano-technology enhanced radiation modalities is investigated. The proposed methodology uses antibodies labeled with organically inert metals with a high atomic number. Irradiation using photons with energies in the kilo-electron volt (keV) range shows an increase in dose due to a combination of an increase in photo-electric interactions and a pronounced generation of Auger and/or Coster-Krönig (A-CK) electrons. The dependence of the dose deposition on various factors is investigated using Monte Carlo simulation models. The factors investigated include agent concentration, spectral dependence looking at mono-energetic sources as well as classical bremsstrahlung sources. The optimization of the energy spectrum is performed in terms of physical dose enhancement as well as the dose deposited by Auger and/or Coster-Krönig electrons and their biological effectiveness. A quasi-linear dependence on concentration and an exponential decrease within the target medium is observed. The maximal dose enhancement is dependent on the position of the target in the beam. Apart from irradiation with low-photon energies (10-20 keV) there is no added benefit from the increase in generation of Auger electrons. Interestingly, a regular 110 kVp bremsstrahlung spectrum shows a comparable enhancement in comparison with the optimized mono-energetic sources. In conclusion we find that the use of enhanced nano-particles shows promise to be implemented quite easily in regular clinics on a physical level due to the advantageous properties in classical beams.

  1. Beam energy considerations for gold nano-particle enhanced radiation treatment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Van den Heuvel, F.; Locquet, Jean-Pierre; Nuyts, S.

    2010-08-01

    A novel approach using nano-technology enhanced radiation modalities is investigated. The proposed methodology uses antibodies labeled with organically inert metals with a high atomic number. Irradiation using photons with energies in the kilo-electron volt (keV) range shows an increase in dose due to a combination of an increase in photo-electric interactions and a pronounced generation of Auger and/or Coster-Krönig (A-CK) electrons. The dependence of the dose deposition on various factors is investigated using Monte Carlo simulation models. The factors investigated include agent concentration, spectral dependence looking at mono-energetic sources as well as classical bremsstrahlung sources. The optimization of the energy spectrum is performed in terms of physical dose enhancement as well as the dose deposited by Auger and/or Coster-Krönig electrons and their biological effectiveness. A quasi-linear dependence on concentration and an exponential decrease within the target medium is observed. The maximal dose enhancement is dependent on the position of the target in the beam. Apart from irradiation with low-photon energies (10-20 keV) there is no added benefit from the increase in generation of Auger electrons. Interestingly, a regular 110 kVp bremsstrahlung spectrum shows a comparable enhancement in comparison with the optimized mono-energetic sources. In conclusion we find that the use of enhanced nano-particles shows promise to be implemented quite easily in regular clinics on a physical level due to the advantageous properties in classical beams.

  2. Spectroscopic characterization of the effect of gamma radiation on the physical parameters of biosynthesized silver/chitosan nano-particles and their antimicrobial activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Osman, Mohamed E.; Eid, May M.; Khattab, Om kolthoum H.; El-Hallouty, Salwa M.; El-Marakby, Seham M.; Mahmoud, Doaa A.

    2015-09-01

    Studying the effect of pH on the biosynthesis of silver/chitosan nanoparticles (Ag/CS NPs) using Aspergillus deflectus and Penicillium pinophilum as reducing agents, showed very weak surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of Ag/CS NPs at certain pH. In this paper, the effect of irradiation on the synthesis of Ag/CS at non-optimum pH was evaluated and thereby, the antimicrobial effect of the biosynthesized Ag/CS NPs. The SPR of the AgNPs was analyzed by UV-visible spectroscopy. The active groups responsible for the reduction and capping of the AgNPs were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and their shape and size were determined via high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and the dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. UV/Visible spectroscopy confirmed the appearance of AgNPs’ SPR. Additionally, the FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the Ag/CS NP formation. Data also revealed that increasing both the pH and irradiation dose resulted in a decrease of the Ag/CS NPs’ size. DLS and HRTEM results showed that the best pH for biosynthesis of Ag/Cs is 7.5 at 50 kGy considering the particle size and crystallinity. Also, pH 8.5 gave the best antimicrobial activity of the Ag/CS NPs from Penicillium against both S. aureus and E. coli, while 8.5 and 7.5 were the best in the same order, for Ag/CS from Aspergillus.

  3. Characterisation of nano- and micron-sized airborne and collected subway particles, a multi-analytical approach.

    PubMed

    Midander, Klara; Elihn, Karine; Wallén, Anna; Belova, Lyuba; Karlsson, Anna-Karin Borg; Wallinder, Inger Odnevall

    2012-06-15

    Continuous daily measurements of airborne particles were conducted during specific periods at an underground platform within the subway system of the city center of Stockholm, Sweden. Main emphasis was placed on number concentration, particle size distribution, soot content (analyzed as elemental and black carbon) and surface area concentration. Conventional measurements of mass concentrations were conducted in parallel as well as analysis of particle morphology, bulk- and surface composition. In addition, the presence of volatile and semi volatile organic compounds within freshly collected particle fractions of PM(10) and PM(2.5) were investigated and grouped according to functional groups. Similar periodic measurements were conducted at street level for comparison. The investigation clearly demonstrates a large dominance in number concentration of airborne nano-sized particles compared to coarse particles in the subway. Out of a mean particle number concentration of 12000 particles/cm(3) (7500 to 20000 particles/cm(3)), only 190 particles/cm(3) were larger than 250 nm. Soot particles from diesel exhaust, and metal-containing particles, primarily iron, were observed in the subway aerosol. Unique measurements on freshly collected subway particle size fractions of PM(10) and PM(2.5) identified several volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, the presence of carcinogenic aromatic compounds and traces of flame retardants. This interdisciplinary and multi-analytical investigation aims to provide an improved understanding of reported adverse health effects induced by subway aerosols. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles by endosymbiont Pseudomonas fluorescens CA 417 and their bactericidal activity.

    PubMed

    Syed, Baker; M N, Nagendra Prasad; B L, Dhananjaya; K, Mohan Kumar; S, Yallappa; S, Satish

    2016-12-01

    The present study emphasizes on biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their bactericidal activity against human and phytopathogens. Nanoparticle synthesis was performed using endosymbiont Pseudomonas fluorescens CA 417 inhabiting Coffea arabica L. Synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using hyphenated spectroscopic techniques such as UV-vis spectroscopy which revealed maximum absorption 425nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed the possible functional groups mediating and stabilizing silver nanoparticles with predominant peaks occurring at 3346 corresponding to hydroxyl group, 1635 corresponding carbonyl group and 680 to aromatic group. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the Bragg's diffraction pattern with distinct peaks at 38° 44°, 64° and 78° revealing the face-centered cubic (fcc) metallic crystal corresponding to the (111), (200), (220) and (311) facets of the crystal planes at 2θ angle. The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed presence of high intense absorption peak at 3keV is a typical characteristic of nano-crystalline silver which confirmed the presence of elemental silver. TEM analysis revealed the size of the nanoparticles to be in the range 5-50nm with polydisperse nature of synthesized nanoparticles bearing myriad shapes. The particle size determined by Dynamic light scattering (DLS) method revealed average size to be 20.66nm. The synthesized silver nanoparticles exhibited significant antibacterial activity against panel of test pathogens. The results showed Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 7407) and Xanthomonas campestris to be more sensitive among the test human pathogen and phyto-pathogen respectively. The study also reports synergistic effect of silver nanoparticles in combination with kanamycin which displayed increased fold activity up to 58.3% against Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 7407). The results of the present investigation are promising enough and attribute towards

  5. Printed Nano Cu and NiSi Contacts and Metallization for Solar Cell Modules

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Carmody, Michael John

    There has long been a desire to replace the front-side silver contacts in silicon solar cells. There are two driving forces to do this. First, silver is an expensive precious metal. Secondly, the process to use silver requires that it be formulated into screen print pastes that need a lead-containing glass frit, and the use of lead is forbidden in many parts of the world. Because of the difficulty in replacing these pastes and the attendant processes, lead exemptions have granted to solar cells. Copper has been the replacement metal of choice because it is significantly cheaper than silver andmore » is very close to silver in electrical conductivity. Using processes which do not use lead, obviates it as an environmental contaminant. However, copper cannot be in contact with the silicon of the cell since it migrates through the silicon and causes defects which severely damage the efficiency of the cell. Hence, a conductive barrier must be placed between the copper and silicon and nickel, and especially nickel silicide, have been shown to be materials of choice. However, nickel must be sputtered and annealed to create the nickel silicide barrier, and copper has either been sputtered or plated. All of these processes require expensive, specialized equipment and plating uses environmentally unfriendly chemicals. Therefore, Intrinsiq proposed using printed nano nickel silicide ink (which we had previously invented) and printed nano copper ink to create these electrodes and barriers. We found that nano copper ink could be readily printed and sintered under a reducing atmosphere to give highly conductive grids. We further showed that nano nickel silicide ink could be readily jetted into grids on top of the silicon cell. It could then be annealed to create a barrier. However, it was found that the combination of printed NiSi and printed Cu did not give contact resistivity good enough to produce efficient cells. Only plated copper on top of the printed NiSi gave useful

  6. Coupling Fe0 nano particles with living and dead Azolla filicoloides to improve removal of methylene blue from aqueous solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rakhshaee, Roohan

    2015-11-01

    Fe0 nano particles (FNPs) were connected to the cell wall of the dead and living Azolla filicoloides as an aquatic fern, individually. FNPs mean size was decreased due to the stabilization, especially using the living one. It was compared the results of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), saturation magnetization (Ms), zeta potential (ZP) and thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) of the dead and living Azolla connected to FNPs, and also the findings of potentiometric titration (PT) of the cell wall's pectin of the dead and living Azolla. It was confirmed (by XRD and XPS) that Fe0 nano particles when were connected to the living Azolla did not produce Fe3O4 due to oxidation unlike the bare FNPs and the connected form to the dead Azolla, by reason of the more stabilization (more surface protection) of nano iron particles after connecting to the living Azolla. To adsorb methylene blue by these agents at the optimum pre-treatment pH 10 and adsorption pH 8, the parameters of equilibrium sorption, rate constant of second-order sorption and activation energy were obtained as: living Azolla-FNPs > dead Azolla-FNPs > FNPs > dead Azolla, while, their thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS°) had the reverse arrangement. It was also studied the various factors rule such as photoperiod and the presence of heavy metals on the living Azolla growth coupled with FNPs and its MB removal ability.

  7. Photocatalytic removal of doxycycline from aqueous solution using ZnO nano-particles: a comparison between UV-C and visible light.

    PubMed

    Pourmoslemi, Shabnam; Mohammadi, Ali; Kobarfard, Farzad; Amini, Mohsen

    2016-10-01

    Zinc oxide nano-particles were synthesized, characterized and used for photocatalytic degradation of doxycycline using UV-C and visible light. Effects of several operational factors including initial pH of antibiotic solution, initial antibiotic concentration and ZnO nano-particles loading amount were investigated. Comparing photocatalytic degradation and mineralization of doxycycline under UV-C and visible light showed successful application of the method under both light sources. However, reaction rate was higher under UV-C irradiation, which degraded doxycycline almost completely in 5 hours, and 68% mineralization was achieved. Synthesized ZnO nano-particles were successfully applied for photocatalytic degradation of doxycycline in a pharmaceutical wastewater sample. The process was fitted to the pseudo first order kinetic model with rate constants in the range of 6-22(×10 -3 ) mg L -1 min -1 with respect to initial concentration of doxycycline under UV-C irradiation. The Langmuir-Hinshelwood model was also employed for describing the photocatalytic reaction with surface reaction kinetic constant k c and equilibrium adsorption constant K LH values calculated as 0.12 mg L -1 min -1 and 2.2 L mg -1 , respectively. Degradation of doxycycline was followed by UV-visible spectroscopy and a validated stability indicating high-performance liquid chromatography method that was developed using stressed samples of doxycycline and could selectively determine doxycycline in the presence of its degradation products. Mass spectrometry was used for determining final degradation products.

  8. Direct patterning of silver particles on porous silicon by inkjet printing of a silver salt via in-situ reduction

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    We have developed a method for obtaining a direct pattern of silver nanoparticles (NPs) on porous silicon (p-Si) by means of inkjet printing (IjP) of a silver salt. Silver NPs were obtained by p-Si mediated in-situ reduction of Ag+ cations using solutions based on AgNO3 which were directly printed on p-Si according to specific geometries and process parameters. The main difference with respect to existing literature is that normally, inkjet printing is applied to silver (metal) NP suspensions, while in our experiment the NPs are formed after jetting the solution on the reactive substrate. We performed both optical and scanning electron microscopes on the NPs traces, correlating the morphology features with the IjP parameters, giving an insight on the synthesis kinetics. The patterned NPs show good performances as SERS substrates. PMID:22953722

  9. Use of polypropylene fibers coated with nano-silica particles into a cementitious mortar

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Coppola, B., E-mail: bcoppola@unisa.it; Di Maio, L.; Scarfato, P.

    Fiber reinforced cementitious composite (FRCC) materials have been widely used during last decades in order to overcome some of traditional cementitious materials issues: brittle behaviour, fire resistance, cover spalling, impact strength. For composite materials, fiber/matrix bond plays an important role because by increasing fiber/matrix interactions is possible to increase the behaviour of the entire material. In this study, in order to improve fiber to matrix adhesion, two chemical treatments of polypropylene fibers were investigated: alkaline hydrolysis and nano-silica sol-gel particles deposition. Treatmtents effect on fibers morphology and mechanical properties was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and tensile tests. SEMmore » investigations report the presence of spherical nano-silica particles on fiber surface, in the case of sol-gel process, while alkaline hydrolysis leads to an increase of fibers roughness. Both treatments have negligible influence on fibers mechanical properties confirming the possibility of their use in a cementitious mortar. Pullout tests were carried out considering three embedded length of fibers in mortar samples (10, 20 and 30 mm, respectively) showing an increase of pullout energy for treated fibers. The influence on fiber reinforced mortar mechanical properties was investigated by three-point flexural tests on prismatic specimens considering two fibers length (15 and 30 mm) and two fibers volume fractions (0.50 and 1.00 %). A general increase of flexural strength over the reference mix was achieved and an overall better behaviour is recognizable for mortars containing treated fibers.« less

  10. Development of fine-celled bio-fiber composite foams using physical blowing agents and nano-particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Gangjian

    As one of eco-friendly bio-fibers, wood-fiber has been incorporated in plastics to make wood-fiber/plastic composites (WPC) with an increased stiffness, durability and lowered cost. However, these improvements are usually accompanied by loss in the ductility and impact strength of the composites. These shortcomings can be significantly improved by incorporating a fine-cell foam structure in the composites. This thesis presents the development of the foaming technology for the manufacture of fine-cell WPC foams with environmentally benign physical blowing agents (PBAs), and focuses on the elucidation of the fundamental foaming mechanisms and the related issues involved. One critical issue comes from the volatiles evolved from the wood-fiber during high temperature processing. The volatiles, as a blowing agent, can contribute to the foaming process. However, they lead to gross deterioration of the cell structure of WPC foams. The presence of volatiles makes foaming of WPC "a poorly understood black art". With the use of PBAs, a strategy of lowering processing temperature becomes feasible, to suppress the generation of volatiles. A series of PBA-based experiments were designed using a statistical design of experiments (DOE) technique, and were performed to establish the relationship of processing and material variables with the structure of WPC foams. Fundamental foaming behaviors for two different PBAs and two different polymer systems were identified. WPC foams with a fine-cell morphology and a desired density were successfully obtained at the optimized conditions. Another limitation for the wider application of WPC is their flammability. Innovative use of a small amount of nano-clay in WPC significantly improved the flame-retarding property of WPC, and the key issue was to achieve a high degree of exfoliation of nano-particles in the polymer matrix, to achieve a desired flammability reduction. The synergistic effects of nano-particles in foaming of WPC were

  11. Preparation of nano fluids by mechanical method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boopathy, J.; Pari, R.; Kavitha, M.; Angelo, P. C.

    2012-07-01

    Nanofluids are conventional heat transfer fluids that contain nano particles of metals, oxides, carbides, nitrides, or nanotubes. Nanofluids exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity and heat transfer coefficients compared to the base fluids. This paper presents the procedure for preparing nanofluids consisting of Copper and Aluminium nano powders in base fluids. Copper and Aluminium nano powders were produced by planetary ball wet milling at 300rpm for 50hrs. Toluene was added to ensure wet milling. These powders were characterized in XRD and SEM for their purity, particle size and shape. The XRD results confirmed the final particle sizes of Copper and Aluminium in the nano range. Then the 0.01 gm of nano metal powders was added in 150 ml of double distilled water and magnetic stirring was done at 1500 rpm for 15 minutes. Sodium lauryl sulphate (0.05%) was added in water as surfactant to ensure the stability of the dispersion. Ultrasonication in the 3000 watts bath was done for 10 minutes to enhance the uniform dispersion of metal powders in water. The pH, dynamic viscosity, ionic conductivity and the stability of the fluids were determined for further usage of synthesized nanofluids as coolant during grinding operation.

  12. Enhancement of Single Molecule Fluorescence Signals by Colloidal Silver Nanoparticles in Studies of Protein Translation

    PubMed Central

    Bharill, Shashank; Chen, Chunlai; Stevens, Benjamin; Kaur, Jaskiran; Smilansky, Zeev; Mandecki, Wlodek; Gryczynski, Ignacy; Gryczynski, Zygmunt; Cooperman, Barry S.; Goldman, Yale E.

    2011-01-01

    Metal enhanced fluorescence (MEF) increased total photon emission of Cy3- and Cy5-labeled ribosomal initiation complexes near 50 nm silver particles 4- and 5.5-fold respectively. Fluorescence intensity fluctuations above shot noise, at 0.1 – 5 Hz, were greater on silver particles. Overall signal to noise ratio was similar or slightly improved near the particles. Proximity to silver particles did not compromise ribosome function, as measured by codon-dependent binding of fluorescent tRNA, dynamics of fluorescence resonance energy transfer between adjacent tRNAs in the ribosome, and tRNA translocation induced by elongation factor G. PMID:21158483

  13. Enhancement of single-molecule fluorescence signals by colloidal silver nanoparticles in studies of protein translation.

    PubMed

    Bharill, Shashank; Chen, Chunlai; Stevens, Benjamin; Kaur, Jaskiran; Smilansky, Zeev; Mandecki, Wlodek; Gryczynski, Ignacy; Gryczynski, Zygmunt; Cooperman, Barry S; Goldman, Yale E

    2011-01-25

    Metal-enhanced fluorescence (MEF) increased total photon emission of Cy3- and Cy5-labeled ribosomal initiation complexes near 50 nm silver particles 4- and 5.5-fold, respectively. Fluorescence intensity fluctuations above shot noise, at 0.1-5 Hz, were greater on silver particles. Overall signal-to-noise ratio was similar or slightly improved near the particles. Proximity to silver particles did not compromise ribosome function, as measured by codon-dependent binding of fluorescent tRNA, dynamics of fluorescence resonance energy transfer between adjacent tRNAs in the ribosome, and tRNA translocation induced by elongation factor G.

  14. Dermal absorption and short-term biological impact in hairless mice from sunscreens containing zinc oxide nano- or larger particles

    PubMed Central

    Oytam, Yalchin; Kirby, Jason K.; Gomez-Fernandez, Laura; Baxter, Brent; McCall, Maxine J.

    2014-01-01

    Previous studies have shown no, or very limited, skin penetration of metal oxide nanoparticles following topical application of sunscreens, yet concerns remain about their safety compared to larger particles. Here, we assessed the comparative dermal absorption of a traceable form of Zn (68Zn) from 68ZnO nano-sized and larger particles in sunscreens. Sunscreens were applied to the backs of virgin or pregnant hairless mice over four days. Control groups received topical applications of the sunscreen formulation containing no ZnO particles, or no treatment. Major organs were assessed for changes in 68Zn/64Zn ratios, 68Zn tracer and total Zn concentrations. Short-term biological impact was assessed by measuring levels of serum amyloid A in blood, and by performing whole-genome transcriptional profiling on livers from each group. Increased concentrations of 68Zn tracer were detected in internal organs of mice receiving topical applications of 68ZnO (nano-sized and larger particles), as well as in fetal livers from treated dams, compared with controls. Furthermore, concentrations of 68Zn in organs of virgin mice treated with sunscreen containing 68ZnO nanoparticles were found to be significantly higher than in mice treated with sunscreen containing larger 68ZnO particles. However, no ZnO-mediated change in total Zn concentration in any of the major organs was observed. Thus, despite 68Zn absorption, which may have been in the form of soluble 68Zn species or 68ZnO particles (not known), Zn homeostasis was largely maintained, and the presence of ZnO particles in sunscreen did not elicit an adverse biological response in the mice following short-term topical applications. PMID:24266363

  15. Antimicrobial action of silver nitrate.

    PubMed

    Richards, R M

    1981-01-01

    Silver nitrate 3 mug/ml prevented the separation into two daughter cells of sensitive dividing cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa growing in nutrient broth plus the chemical. Cell size of sensitive cells was increased and the cytoplasmic contents, cytoplasmic membrane and external cell envelope structures were all abnormal. P. aeruginosa cells grown in the presence of silver nitrate 9 mug/ml showed all these changes to a marked degree except inhibition of cell division was not observed. Silver nitrate (1.5 mug/ml) in distilled water inactivated bacteriophage T2 particles as determined by their infectivity to Escherichia coli B cultures. Lysozyme (50 mug/ml) reduced, and sodium chloride (0.9%) blocked this activity.

  16. Exposure to nano-size titanium dioxide causes oxidative damages in human mesothelial cells: The crystal form rather than size of particle contributes to cytotoxicity.

    PubMed

    Hattori, Kenji; Nakadate, Kazuhiko; Morii, Akane; Noguchi, Takumi; Ogasawara, Yuki; Ishii, Kazuyuki

    2017-10-14

    Exposure to nanoparticles such as carbon nanotubes has been shown to cause pleural mesothelioma similar to that caused by asbestos, and has become an environmental health issue. Not only is the percutaneous absorption of nano-size titanium dioxide particles frequently considered problematic, but the possibility of absorption into the body through the pulmonary route is also a concern. Nevertheless, there are few reports of nano-size titanium dioxide particles on respiratory organ exposure and dynamics or on the mechanism of toxicity. In this study, we focused on the morphology as well as the size of titanium dioxide particles. In comparing the effects between nano-size anatase and rutile titanium dioxide on human-derived pleural mesothelial cells, the anatase form was shown to be actively absorbed into cells, producing reactive oxygen species and causing oxidative damage to DNA. In contrast, we showed for the first time that the rutile form is not easily absorbed by cells and, therefore, does not cause oxidative DNA damage and is significantly less damaging to cells. These results suggest that with respect to the toxicity of titanium dioxide particles on human-derived mesothelial cells, the crystal form rather than the particle size has a greater effect on cellular absorption. Also, it was indicated that the difference in absorption is the primary cause of the difference in the toxicity against mesothelial cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Comparison of 20 nm silver nanoparticles synthesized with and without a gold core. Structure, dissolution in cell culture media, and biological impact on macrophages

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Munusamy, Prabhakaran; Wang, Chongmin; Engelhard, Mark H.

    Widespread use of silver nanoparticles raises questions of environmental impact and toxicity. Both silver particles and silver ions formed by particle dissolution may impact biological systems. Therefore it is important to understand the characteristics of silver nanoparticles and their stability in relevant media. The synthesis route can impact physical and chemical characteristics of the particles and we report the characterization and solution stability of three types of silver nanoparticles (20 nm particles with and without gold cores and 110 nm particles with gold cores) in cell culture media with serum proteins: FBS10%/RPMI. These nanoparticles were synthesized in aqueous solution andmore » characterized using both in situ and ex situ analysis methods. Dissolution studies were carried at particle concentrations from 1 µg/ml to 50 µg/ml. Particles with gold cores had smaller crystallite size and higher apparent solubility than pure silver particles. A dissolution model was found to describe the time variation of particle size and amount of dissolved silver for particle loadings above 9 µg/ml. An effective solubility product obtained from fitting the data was higher for the 20 nm gold core particles in comparison to the pure silver or 110 nm particles. Dissolution of the nanoparticles was enhanced by presence of serum proteins contained in fetal bovine serum. In addition, the protocol of the dispersion in the medium was found to influence particle agglomeration and dissolution. Results show that particle structure can impact the concentration of dissolved silver and the dose to which cells would be exposed during in vitro studies.« less

  18. Comparison of 20 nm silver nanoparticles synthesized with and without a gold core. Structure, dissolution in cell culture media, and biological impact on macrophages

    DOE PAGES

    Munusamy, Prabhakaran; Wang, Chongmin; Engelhard, Mark H.; ...

    2015-07-15

    Widespread use of silver nanoparticles raises questions of environmental impact and toxicity. Both silver particles and silver ions formed by particle dissolution may impact biological systems. Therefore it is important to understand the characteristics of silver nanoparticles and their stability in relevant media. The synthesis route can impact physical and chemical characteristics of the particles and we report the characterization and solution stability of three types of silver nanoparticles (20 nm particles with and without gold cores and 110 nm particles with gold cores) in cell culture media with serum proteins: FBS10%/RPMI. These nanoparticles were synthesized in aqueous solution andmore » characterized using both in situ and ex situ analysis methods. Dissolution studies were carried at particle concentrations from 1 µg/ml to 50 µg/ml. Particles with gold cores had smaller crystallite size and higher apparent solubility than pure silver particles. A dissolution model was found to describe the time variation of particle size and amount of dissolved silver for particle loadings above 9 µg/ml. An effective solubility product obtained from fitting the data was higher for the 20 nm gold core particles in comparison to the pure silver or 110 nm particles. Dissolution of the nanoparticles was enhanced by presence of serum proteins contained in fetal bovine serum. In addition, the protocol of the dispersion in the medium was found to influence particle agglomeration and dissolution. Results show that particle structure can impact the concentration of dissolved silver and the dose to which cells would be exposed during in vitro studies.« less

  19. Nano-optical conveyor belt with waveguide-coupled excitation.

    PubMed

    Wang, Guanghui; Ying, Zhoufeng; Ho, Ho-pui; Huang, Ying; Zou, Ningmu; Zhang, Xuping

    2016-02-01

    We propose a plasmonic nano-optical conveyor belt for peristaltic transport of nano-particles. Instead of illumination from the top, waveguide-coupled excitation is used for trapping particles with a higher degree of precision and flexibility. Graded nano-rods with individual dimensions coded to have resonance at specific wavelengths are incorporated along the waveguide in order to produce spatially addressable hot spots. Consequently, by switching the excitation wavelength sequentially, particles can be transported to adjacent optical traps along the waveguide. The feasibility of this design is analyzed using three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain and Maxwell stress tensor methods. Simulation results show that this system is capable of exciting addressable traps and moving particles in a peristaltic fashion with tens of nanometers resolution. It is the first, to the best of our knowledge, report about a nano-optical conveyor belt with waveguide-coupled excitation, which is very important for scalability and on-chip integration. The proposed approach offers a new design direction for integrated waveguide-based optical manipulation devices and its application in large scale lab-on-a-chip integration.

  20. Chemical Imaging and Stable Isotope Analysis of Atmospheric Particles by NanoSIMS (Invited)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sinha, B.; Harris, E. J.; Pöhlker, C.; Wiedemann, K. T.; van Pinxteren, D.; Tilgner, A.; Fomba, K. W.; Schneider, J.; Roth, A.; Gnauk, T.; Fahlbusch, B.; Mertes, S.; Lee, T.; Collett, J. L.; Shiraiwa, M.; Gunthe, S. S.; Smith, M.; Artaxo, P. P.; Gilles, M.; Kilcoyne, A. L.; Moffet, R.; Weigand, M.; Martin, S. T.; Poeschl, U.; Andreae, M. O.; Hoppe, P.; Herrmann, H.; Borrmann, S.

    2013-12-01

    Chemical imaging analysis of the internal distribution of chemical compounds by a combination of SEM-EDX, and NanoSIMS allows investigating the physico-chemical properties and isotopic composition of individual aerosol particles. Stable sulphur isotope analysis provides insight into the sources, sinks and oxidation pathways of SO2 in the environment. Oxidation by OH radicals, O3 and H2O2 enriches the heavier isotope in the product sulphate, whereas oxidation by transition metal ions (TMI), hypohalites and hypohalous acids depletes the heavier isotope in the product sulphate. The isotope fractionation during SO2 oxidation by stabilized Criegee Intermediate radicals is unknown. We studied the relationship between aerosol chemical composition and predominant sulphate formation pathways in continental clouds in Central Europe and during the wet season in the Amazon rain forest. Sulphate formation in continental clouds in Central Europe was studied during HCCT-2010, a lagrangian-type field experiment, during which an orographic cloud was used as a natural flow-through reactor to study in-cloud aerosol processing (Harris et al. 2013). Sulphur isotopic compositions in SO2 and H2SO4 gas and particulate sulphate were measured and changes in the sulphur isotope composition of SO2 between the upwind and downwind measurement sites were used to determine the dominant SO2 chemical removal process occurring in the cloud. Changes in the isotopic composition of particulate sulphate revealed that transition metal catalysis pathway was the dominant SO2 oxidation pathway. This reaction occurred primarily on coarse mineral dust particles. Thus, sulphate produced due to in-cloud SO2 oxidation is removed relatively quickly from the atmosphere and has a minor climatic effect. The aerosol samples from the Amazonian rainforest, a pristine tropical environment, were collected during the rainy season. The samples were found to be dominated by SOA particles in the fine mode and primary