Characterization of Magnetic NiFe Nanoparticles with Controlled Bimetallic Composition

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

Liu, Yan; Chi, Yanxiu; Shan, Shiyao

2014-02-25

The exploration of the magnetic properties of bimetallic alloy nanoparticles for various technological applications requires the ability to control the morphology, composition, and surface properties. In this report, we describe new findings of an investigation of the morphology and composition of NiFe alloy nanoparticles synthesized under controlled conditions. The controllability over the bimetallic composition has been demonstrated by the observation of an approximate linear relationship between the composition in the nanoparticles and in the synthetic feeding. The morphology of the NiFe nanoparticles is consistent with an fcc-type alloy, with the lattice strain increasing linearly with the iron content in themore » nanoparticles. The alloy nanoparticles exhibit remarkable resistance to air oxidation in comparison with Ni or Fe particles. The thermal stability and the magnetic properties of the as-synthesized alloy nanoparticles are shown to depend on the composition. The alloy nanoparticles have also be sown to display low saturation magnetization and coercivity values in comparison with the Ni nanoparticles, in line with the superparamagnetic characteristic. These findings have important implications for the design of stable and controllable magnetic nanoparticles for various technological applications.« less

Magnetically encoded luminescent composite nanoparticles through layer-by-layer self-assembly.

PubMed

Song, Erqun; Han, Weiye; Xu, Hongyan; Jiang, Yunfei; Cheng, Dan; Song, Yang; Swihart, Mark T

2014-11-03

Sensitive and rapid detection of multiple analytes and the collection of components from complex samples are important in fields ranging from bioassays/chemical assays, clinical diagnosis, to environmental monitoring. A convenient strategy for creating magnetically encoded luminescent CdTe@SiO2 @n Fe3 O4 composite nanoparticles, by using a layer-by-layer self-assembly approach based on electrostatic interactions, is described. Silica-coated CdTe quantum dots (CdTe@SiO2 ) serve as core templates for the deposition of alternating layers of Fe3 O4 magnetic nanoparticles and poly(dimethyldiallyl ammonium chloride), to construct CdTe@SiO2 @n Fe3 O4 (n=1, 2, 3, …︁) composite nanoparticles with a defined number (n) of Fe3 O4 layers. Composite nanoparticles were characterized by zeta-potential analysis, fluorescence spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, and transmission electron microscopy, which showed that the CdTe@SiO2 @n Fe3 O4 composite nanoparticles exhibited excellent luminescence properties coupled with well-defined magnetic responses. To demonstrate the utility of these magnetically encoded nanoparticles for near-simultaneous detection and separation of multiple components from complex samples, three different fluorescently labeled IgG proteins, as model targets, were identified and collected from a mixture by using the CdTe@SiO2 @n Fe3 O4 nanoparticles. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Lattice-patterned LC-polymer composites containing various nanoparticles as additives

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

In this study, we show the effect of various nanoparticle additives on phase separation behavior of a lattice-patterned liquid crystal [LC]-polymer composite system and on interfacial properties between the LC and polymer. Lattice-patterned LC-polymer composites were fabricated by exposing to UV light a mixture of a prepolymer, an LC, and SiO2 nanoparticles positioned under a patterned photomask. This resulted in the formation of an LC and prepolymer region through phase separation. We found that the incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles significantly affected the electro-optical properties of the lattice-patterned LC-polymer composites. This effect is a fundamental characteristic of flexible displays. The electro-optical properties depend on the size and surface functional groups of the SiO2 nanoparticles. Compared with untreated pristine SiO2 nanoparticles, which adversely affect the performance of LC molecules surrounded by polymer walls, SiO2 nanoparticles with surface functional groups were found to improve the electro-optical properties of the lattice-patterned LC-polymer composites by increasing the quantity of SiO2 nanoparticles. The surface functional groups of the SiO2 nanoparticles were closely related to the distribution of SiO2 nanoparticles in the LC-polymer composites, and they influenced the electro-optical properties of the LC molecules. It is clear from our work that the introduction of nanoparticles into a lattice-patterned LC-polymer composite provides a method for controlling and improving the composite's electro-optical properties. This technique can be used to produce flexible substrates for various flexible electronic devices. PMID:22222011

Cellular Binding of Anionic Nanoparticles is Inhibited by Serum Proteins Independent of Nanoparticle Composition.

PubMed

Fleischer, Candace C; Kumar, Umesh; Payne, Christine K

2013-09-01

Nanoparticles used in biological applications encounter a complex mixture of extracellular proteins. Adsorption of these proteins on the nanoparticle surface results in the formation of a "protein corona," which can dominate the interaction of the nanoparticle with the cellular environment. The goal of this research was to determine how nanoparticle composition and surface modification affect the cellular binding of protein-nanoparticle complexes. We examined the cellular binding of a collection of commonly used anionic nanoparticles: quantum dots, colloidal gold nanoparticles, and low-density lipoprotein particles, in the presence and absence of extracellular proteins. These experiments have the advantage of comparing different nanoparticles under identical conditions. Using a combination of fluorescence and dark field microscopy, flow cytometry, and spectroscopy, we find that cellular binding of these anionic nanoparticles is inhibited by serum proteins independent of nanoparticle composition or surface modification. We expect these results will aid in the design of nanoparticles for in vivo applications.

The Effect of ZrO₂ Nanoparticles on the Microstructure and Properties of Sintered WC-Bronze-Based Diamond Composites.

PubMed

Sun, Youhong; Wu, Haidong; Li, Meng; Meng, Qingnan; Gao, Ke; Lü, Xiaoshu; Liu, Baochang

2016-05-06

Metal matrix-impregnated diamond composites are widely used in diamond tool manufacturing. In order to satisfy the increasing engineering requirements, researchers have paid more and more attention to enhancing conventional metal matrices by applying novel methods. In this work, ZrO₂ nanoparticles were introduced into the WC-bronze matrix with and without diamond grits via hot pressing to improve the performance of conventional diamond composites. The effects of ZrO₂ nanoparticles on the microstructure, density, hardness, bending strength, and wear resistance of diamond composites were investigated. The results indicated that the hardness and relative density increased, while the bending strength decreased when the content of ZrO₂ nanoparticles increased. The grinding ratio of diamond composites increased significantly by 60% as a result of nano-ZrO₂ addition. The enhancement mechanism was discussed. Diamond composites showed the best overall properties with the addition of 1 wt % ZrO₂ nanoparticles, thus paving the way for further applications.

Composite Materials with Magnetically Aligned Carbon Nanoparticles and Methods of Preparation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salem, David R. (Inventor); Hong, Haiping (Inventor); Peterson, G.P. (Bud) (Inventor)

2018-01-01

The present invention relates to magnetically aligned carbon nanoparticle composites and methods of preparing the same. The composites comprise carbon nanoparticles, host material, magnetically sensitive nanoparticles and surfactant. The composites may have enhanced mechanical, thermal, and/or electrical properties.

Mitochondria-Targeting Magnetic Composite Nanoparticles for Enhanced Phototherapy of Cancer.

PubMed

Guo, Ranran; Peng, Haibao; Tian, Ye; Shen, Shun; Yang, Wuli

2016-09-01

Photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are promising cancer treatment modalities in current days while the high laser power density demand and low tumor accumulation are key obstacles that have greatly restricted their development. Here, magnetic composite nanoparticles for dual-modal PTT and PDT which have realized enhanced cancer therapeutic effect by mitochondria-targeting are reported. Integrating PTT agent and photosensitizer together, the composite nanoparticles are able to generate heat and reactive oxygen species (ROS) simultaneously upon near infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. After surface modification of targeting ligands, the composite nanoparticles can be selectively delivered to the mitochondria, which amplify the cancer cell apoptosis induced by hyperthermia and the cytotoxic ROS. In this way, better photo therapeutic effects and much higher cytotoxicity are achieved by utilizing the composite nanoparticles than that treated with the same nanoparticles missing mitochondrial targeting unit at a low laser power density. Guided by NIR fluorescence imaging and magnetic resonance imaging, then these results are confirmed in a humanized orthotropic lung cancer model. The composite nanoparticles demonstrate high tumor accumulation and excellent tumor regression with minimal side effect upon NIR laser exposure. Therefore, the mitochondria-targeting composite nanoparticles are expected to be an effective phototherapeutic platform in oncotherapy. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Piezoelectric Nanoparticle-Polymer Composite Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCall, William Ray

Herein we demonstrate that efficient piezoelectric nanoparticle-polymer composite materials can be synthesized and fabricated into complex microstructures using sugar-templating methods or optical printing techniques. Stretchable foams with excellent tunable piezoelectric properties are created by incorporating sugar grains directly into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mixtures containing barium titanate (BaTiO3 -- BTO) nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), followed by removal of the sugar after polymer curing. Porosities and elasticity are tuned by simply adjusting the sugar/polymer mass ratio and the electrical performance of the foams showed a direct relationship between porosity and the piezoelectric outputs. User defined 2D and 3D optically printed piezoelectric microstructures are also fabricated by incorporating BTO nanoparticles into photoliable polymer solutions such as polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) and exposing to digital optical masks that can be dynamically altered. Mechanical-to-electrical conversion efficiency of the optically printed composite is enhanced by chemically altering the surface of the BTO nanoparticles with acrylate groups which form direct covalent linkages with the polymer matrix under light exposure. Both of these novel materials should find exciting uses in a variety of applications including energy scavenging platforms, nano- and microelectromechanical systems (NEMS/MEMS), sensors, and acoustic actuators.

DNA nanotechnology-based composite-type gold nanoparticle-immunostimulatory DNA hydrogel for tumor photothermal immunotherapy.

PubMed

Yata, Tomoya; Takahashi, Yuki; Tan, Mengmeng; Nakatsuji, Hirotaka; Ohtsuki, Shozo; Murakami, Tatsuya; Imahori, Hiroshi; Umeki, Yuka; Shiomi, Tomoki; Takakura, Yoshinobu; Nishikawa, Makiya

2017-11-01

Success of tumor photothermal immunotherapy requires a system that induces heat stress in cancer cells and enhances strong anti-tumor immune responses. Here, we designed a composite-type immunostimulatory DNA hydrogel consisting of a hexapod-like structured DNA (hexapodna) with CpG sequences and gold nanoparticles. Mixing of the properly designed hexapodna and oligodeoxynucleotide-modified gold nanoparticles resulted in the formation of composite-type gold nanoparticle-DNA hydrogels. Laser irradiation of the hydrogel resulted in the release of hexapodna, which efficiently stimulated immune cells to release proinflammatory cytokines. Then, EG7-OVA tumor-bearing mice received an intratumoral injection of a gold nanoparticle-DNA hydrogel, followed by laser irradiation at 780 nm. This treatment increased the local temperature and the mRNA expression of heat shock protein 70 in the tumor tissue, increased tumor-associated antigen-specific IgG levels in the serum, and induced tumor-associated antigen-specific interferon-γ production from splenocytes. Moreover, the treatment significantly retarded the tumor growth and extended the survival of the tumor-bearing mice. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Composite nanoparticles containing rare earth metal and methods of preparation thereof

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

Kandapallil, Binil Itty Ipe; Krishnan, Lakshmi; Johnson, Francis

The present invention is directed to composite nanoparticles comprising a metal, a rare earth element, and, optionally, a complexing ligand. The invention is also directed to composite nanoparticles having a core-shell structure and to processes for preparation of composite nanoparticles of the invention.

Composites based on SiO2 micrograins and cobalt-containing nanoparticles: Synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yurkov, G. Yu.; Kozinkin, A. V.; Koksharov, Yu. A.; Ovchenkov, E. A.; Volkov, A. N.; Kozinkin, Yu. A.; Vlasenko, V. G.; Popkov, O. V.; Ivicheva, S. N.; Kargin, Yu. F.

2013-05-01

Cobalt-containing particles are synthesized on the surface of silicon dioxide micrograins prepared by the Stöber-Fink method. The composition and structure of nanoparticles are determined by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and EXAFS. The average size of cobalt nanoparticles in the samples is found to be 14 ± 5 nm. The resulting composites are shown to be ferromagnetics with low specific magnetization values.

The Effect of ZrO2 Nanoparticles on the Microstructure and Properties of Sintered WC–Bronze-Based Diamond Composites

PubMed Central

Sun, Youhong; Wu, Haidong; Li, Meng; Meng, Qingnan; Gao, Ke; Lü, Xiaoshu; Liu, Baochang

2016-01-01

Metal matrix-impregnated diamond composites are widely used in diamond tool manufacturing. In order to satisfy the increasing engineering requirements, researchers have paid more and more attention to enhancing conventional metal matrices by applying novel methods. In this work, ZrO2 nanoparticles were introduced into the WC–bronze matrix with and without diamond grits via hot pressing to improve the performance of conventional diamond composites. The effects of ZrO2 nanoparticles on the microstructure, density, hardness, bending strength, and wear resistance of diamond composites were investigated. The results indicated that the hardness and relative density increased, while the bending strength decreased when the content of ZrO2 nanoparticles increased. The grinding ratio of diamond composites increased significantly by 60% as a result of nano-ZrO2 addition. The enhancement mechanism was discussed. Diamond composites showed the best overall properties with the addition of 1 wt % ZrO2 nanoparticles, thus paving the way for further applications. PMID:28773469

Nanoparticle-releasing nanofiber composites for enhanced in vivo vaginal retention.

PubMed

Krogstad, Emily A; Ramanathan, Renuka; Nhan, Christina; Kraft, John C; Blakney, Anna K; Cao, Shijie; Ho, Rodney J Y; Woodrow, Kim A

2017-11-01

Current approaches for topical vaginal administration of nanoparticles result in poor retention and extensive leakage. To overcome these challenges, we developed a nanoparticle-releasing nanofiber delivery platform and evaluated its ability to improve nanoparticle retention in a murine model. We individually tailored two components of this drug delivery system for optimal interaction with mucus, designing (1) mucoadhesive fibers for better retention in the vaginal tract, and (2) PEGylated nanoparticles that diffuse quickly through mucus. We hypothesized that this novel dual-functioning (mucoadhesive/mucus-penetrating) composite material would provide enhanced retention of nanoparticles in the vaginal mucosa. Equivalent doses of fluorescent nanoparticles were vaginally administered to mice in either water (aqueous suspension) or fiber composites, and fluorescent content was quantified in cervicovaginal mucus and vaginal tissue at time points from 24 h to 7d. We also fabricated composite fibers containing etravirine-loaded nanoparticles and evaluated the pharmacokinetics over 7d. We found that our composite materials provided approximately 30-fold greater retention of nanoparticles in the reproductive tract at 24 h compared to aqueous suspensions. Compared to nanoparticles in aqueous suspension, the nanoparticles in fiber composites exhibited sustained and higher etravirine concentrations after 24 h and up to 7d, demonstrating the capabilities of this new delivery platform to sustain nanoparticle release out to 3d and drug retention out to one week after a single administration. This is the first report of nanoparticle-releasing fibers for vaginal drug delivery, as well as the first study of a single delivery system that combines two components uniquely engineered for complementary interactions with mucus. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Real-time measurement of size-resolved elemental composition ratio for flame synthesized composite nanoparticle aggregates using a tandem SMPS-ICP-OES

PubMed Central

Reed, Nathan; Fang, Jiaxi; Chavalmane, Sanmathi; Biswas, Pratim

2017-01-01

Composite nanoparticles find application in catalysis, drug delivery, and energy storage and require increasingly fine control of their physical properties and composition. While composite nanoparticles have been widely synthesized and characterized, little work has systematically correlated the initial concentration of precursors and the final composition of flame synthesized composite nanoparticles. This relationship is explored in a diffusion flame aerosol reactor by coupling a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) with an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). A framework for studying the relationship between the initial precursor concentrations of different elements and the final nanoparticle composition is explored. The size-resolved elemental composition was measured by directly injecting size-selected fractions of aggregated magnetite and silicon dioxide composite nanoparticles into the ICP-OES plasma. This work showed a correlation between precursor molar ratio and the measured elemental ratio in the mobility size range of 50 to 140 nm. Building on previous work studying size resolved elemental composition of engineered nanoparticles, the analysis is extended to flame synthesized composite nanoparticle aggregates in this work. PMID:28435179

Real-time measurement of size-resolved elemental composition ratio for flame synthesized composite nanoparticle aggregates using a tandem SMPS-ICP-OES.

PubMed

Reed, Nathan; Fang, Jiaxi; Chavalmane, Sanmathi; Biswas, Pratim

2017-01-01

Composite nanoparticles find application in catalysis, drug delivery, and energy storage and require increasingly fine control of their physical properties and composition. While composite nanoparticles have been widely synthesized and characterized, little work has systematically correlated the initial concentration of precursors and the final composition of flame synthesized composite nanoparticles. This relationship is explored in a diffusion flame aerosol reactor by coupling a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) with an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). A framework for studying the relationship between the initial precursor concentrations of different elements and the final nanoparticle composition is explored. The size-resolved elemental composition was measured by directly injecting size-selected fractions of aggregated magnetite and silicon dioxide composite nanoparticles into the ICP-OES plasma. This work showed a correlation between precursor molar ratio and the measured elemental ratio in the mobility size range of 50 to 140 nm. Building on previous work studying size resolved elemental composition of engineered nanoparticles, the analysis is extended to flame synthesized composite nanoparticle aggregates in this work.

Interfacially Optimized, High Energy Density Nanoparticle-Polymer Composites for Capacitive Energy Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shipman, Joshua; Riggs, Brian; Luo, Sijun; Adireddy, Shiva; Chrisey, Douglas

Energy storage is a green energy technology, however it must be cost effective and scalable to meet future energy demands. Polymer-nanoparticle composites are low cost and potentially offer high energy storage. This is based on the high breakdown strength of polymers and the high dielectric constant of ceramic nanoparticles, but the incoherent nature of the interface between the two components prevents the realization of their combined full potential. We have created inkjet printable nanoparticle-polymer composites that have mitigated many of these interface effects, guided by first principle modelling of the interface. We detail density functional theory modelling of the interface and how it has guided our use in in specific surface functionalizations and other inorganic layers. We have validated our approach by using finite element analysis of the interface. By choosing the correct surface functionalization we are able to create dipole traps which further increase the breakdown strength of our composites. Our nano-scale understanding has allowed us to create the highest energy density composites currently available (>40 J/cm3).

Beyond the Compositional Threshold of Nanoparticle-Based Materials.

PubMed

Portehault, David; Delacroix, Simon; Gouget, Guillaume; Grosjean, Rémi; Chan-Chang, Tsou-Hsi-Camille

2018-04-17

The design of inorganic nanoparticles relies strongly on the knowledge from solid-state chemistry not only for characterization techniques, but also and primarily for choosing the systems that will yield the desired properties. The range of inorganic solids reported and studied as nanoparticles is however strikingly narrow when compared to the solid-state chemistry portfolio of bulk materials. Efforts to enlarge the collection of inorganic particles are becoming increasingly important for three reasons. First, they can yield materials more performing than current ones for a range of fields including biomedicine, optics, catalysis, and energy. Second, looking outside the box of common compositions is a way to target original properties or to discover genuinely new behaviors. The third reason lies in the path followed to reach these novel nano-objects: exploration and setup of new synthetic approaches. Indeed, willingness to access original nanoparticles faces a synthetic challenge: how to reach nanoparticles of solids that originally belong to the realm of solid-state chemistry and its typical protocols at high temperature? To answer this question, alternative reaction pathways must be sought, which may in turn provide tracks for new, untargeted materials. The corresponding strategies require limiting particle growth by confinement at high temperatures or by decreasing the synthesis temperature. Both approaches, especially the latter, provide a nice playground to discover metastable solids never reported before. The aim of this Account is to raise attention to the topic of the design of new inorganic nanoparticles. To do so, we take the perspective of our own work in the field, by first describing synthetic challenges and how they are addressed by current protocols. We then use our achievements to highlight the possibilities offered by new nanomaterials and to introduce synthetic approaches that are not in the focus of recent literature but hold, in our opinion

Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of a conventional orthodontic composite containing silver/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles.

PubMed

Sodagar, Ahmad; Akhavan, Azam; Hashemi, Ehsan; Arab, Sepideh; Pourhajibagher, Maryam; Sodagar, Kosar; Kharrazifard, Mohammad Javad; Bahador, Abbas

2016-12-01

One of the most important complications of fixed orthodontic treatment is the formation of white spots which are initial carious lesions. Addition of antimicrobial agents into orthodontic adhesives might be a wise solution for prevention of white spot formation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial properties of a conventional orthodontic adhesive containing three different concentrations of silver/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. One hundred and sixty-two Transbond XT composite discs containing 0, 1, 5, and 10 % silver/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles were prepared and sterilized. Antibacterial properties of these composite groups against Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Streptococcus sanguinis were investigated using three different antimicrobial tests. Disk agar diffusion test was performed to assess the diffusion of antibacterial agent on brain heart infusion agar plate by measuring bacterial growth inhibition zones. Biofilm inhibition test showed the antibacterial capacity of composite discs against resistant bacterial biofilms. Antimicrobial activity of eluted components from composite discs was investigated by comparing the viable counts of bacteria after 3, 15, and 30 days. Composite discs containing 5 and 10 % silver/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles were capable of producing growth inhibition zones for all bacterial types. Results of biofilm inhibition test showed that all of the study groups reduced viable bacterial count in comparison to the control group. Antimicrobial activity of eluted components from composite discs was immensely diverse based on the bacterial type and the concentration of nanoparticles. Transbond XT composite discs containing 5 and 10 % silver/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles produce bacterial growth inhibition zones and show antibacterial properties against biofilms.

Compositional disorder and its effect on the thermoelectric performance of Zn₃P₂ nanowire-copper nanoparticle composites.

PubMed

Brockway, Lance; Vasiraju, Venkata; Vaddiraju, Sreeram

2014-03-28

Recent studies indicated that nanowire format of materials is ideal for enhancing the thermoelectric performance of materials. Most of these studies were performed using individual nanowires as the test elements. It is not currently clear whether bulk assemblies of nanowires replicate this enhanced thermoelectric performance of individual nanowires. Therefore, it is imperative to understand whether enhanced thermoelectric performance exhibited by individual nanowires can be extended to bulk assemblies of nanowires. It is also imperative to know whether the addition of metal nanoparticle to semiconductor nanowires can be employed for enhancing their thermoelectric performance further. Specifically, it is important to understand the effect of microstructure and composition on the thermoelectric performance on bulk compound semiconductor nanowire-metal nanoparticle composites. In this study, bulk composites composed of mixtures of copper nanoparticles with either unfunctionalized or 1,4-benzenedithiol (BDT) functionalized Zn₃P₂ nanowires were fabricated and analyzed for their thermoelectric performance. The results indicated that use of BDT functionalized nanowires for the fabrication of composites leads to interface-engineered composites that have uniform composition all across their cross-section. The interface engineering allows for increasing their Seebeck coefficients and electrical conductivities, relative to the Zn₃P₂ nanowire pellets. In contrast, the use of unfunctionalized Zn₃P₂ nanowires for the fabrication of composite leads to the formation of composites that are non-uniform in composition across their cross-section. Ultimately, the composites were found to have Zn₃P₂ nanowires interspersed with metal alloy nanoparticles. Such non-uniform composites exhibited very high electrical conductivities, but slightly lower Seebeck coefficients, relative to Zn₃P₂ nanowire pellets. These composites were found to show a very high zT of 0.23 at 770

Gold nanoparticles-induced enhancement of the analytical response of an electrochemical biosensor based on an organic-inorganic hybrid composite material.

PubMed

Barbadillo, M; Casero, E; Petit-Domínguez, M D; Vázquez, L; Pariente, F; Lorenzo, E

2009-12-15

The design and characterization of a new organic-inorganic hybrid composite material for glucose electrochemical sensing are described. This material is based on the entrapment of both gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and glucose oxidase, which was chosen as a model, into a sol-gel matrix. The addition of spectroscopic grade graphite to this system, which confers conductivity, leads to the development of a material particularly attractive for electrochemical biosensor fabrication. The characterization of the hybrid composite material was performed using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques. This composite material was applied to the determination of glucose in presence of hydroxymethylferrocene as a redox mediator. The system exhibits a clear electrocatalytic activity towards glucose, allowing its determination at 250 mV vs Ag/AgCl. The performance of the resulting enzyme biosensor was evaluated in terms of sensitivity, detection limit, linear response range, stability and accuracy. Finally, the enhancement of the analytical response of the resulting biosensor induced by the presence of gold nanoparticles was evaluated by comparison with a similar organic-inorganic hybrid composite material without AuNPs.

Phase stability and dynamics of entangled polymer-nanoparticle composites

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

Mangal, Rahul; Srivastava, Samanvaya; Archer, Lynden A.

Nanoparticle–polymer composites, or polymer–nanoparticle composites (PNCs), exhibit unusual mechanical and dynamical features when the particle size approaches the random coil dimensions of the host polymer. Here, we harness favourable enthalpic interactions between particle-tethered and free, host polymer chains to create model PNCs, in which spherical nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed in high molecular weight entangled polymers. Investigation of the mechanical properties of these model PNCs reveals that the nanoparticles have profound effects on the host polymer motions on all timescales. On short timescales, nanoparticles slow-down local dynamics of the host polymer segments and lower the glass transition temperature. On intermediate timescales,more » where polymer chain motion is typically constrained by entanglements with surrounding molecules, nanoparticles provide additional constraints, which lead to an early onset of entangled polymer dynamics. Finally, on long timescales, nanoparticles produce an apparent speeding up of relaxation of their polymer host.« less

Synthesis of composite nanoparticles using co-precipitation of a magnetic iron-oxide shell onto core nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Primc, Darinka; Belec, Blaž; Makovec, Darko

2016-03-01

Composite nanoparticles can be synthesized by coating a shell made of one material onto core nanoparticles made of another material. Here we report on a novel method for coating a magnetic iron oxide onto the surface of core nanoparticles in an aqueous suspension. The method is based on the heterogeneous nucleation of an initial product of Fe3+/Fe2+ co-precipitation on the core nanoparticles. The close control of the supersaturation of the precipitating species required for an exclusively heterogeneous nucleation and the growth of the shell were achieved by immobilizing the reactive Fe3+ ions in a nitrate complex with urea ([Fe((CO(NH2)2)6](NO3)3) and by using solid Mg(OH)2 as the precipitating reagent. The slow thermal decomposition of the complex at 60 °C homogeneously releases the reactive Fe3+ ions into the suspension of the core nanoparticles. The key stage of the process is the thermal hydrolysis of the released Fe3+ ions prior to the addition of Mg(OH)2. The thermal hydrolysis results in the formation of γ-FeOOH, exclusively at the surfaces of the core nanoparticles. After the addition of the solid hydroxide Mg(OH)2, the pH increases and at pH 5.7 the Fe2+ precipitates and reacts with the γ-FeOOH to form magnetic iron oxide with a spinel structure (spinel ferrite) at the surfaces of the core nanoparticles. The proposed low-temperature method for the synthesis of composite nanoparticles is capable of forming well-defined interfaces between the two components, important for the coupling of the different properties. The procedure is environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and appropriate for scaling up to mass production.

Low Loss Polymer Nanoparticle Composites for RF Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-17

size of nanoparticles below a critical dimension ( skin depth).6 It is possible to increase the skin depth of the hybrid material by decreasing the...filled with elastomers,[10-12] polymer-nanoparticle composites,[13, 14] liquid metal filled microfluidic channels,[4, 15] conductive networks on pre

Simple preparation of fluorescent composite films based on cerium and europium doped LaF3 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Secco, Henrique de L.; Ferreira, Fabio F.; Péres, Laura O.

2018-03-01

The combination of materials to form hybrids with unique properties, different from those of the isolated components, is a strategy used to prepare functional materials with improved properties aiming to allow their application in specific fields. The doping of lanthanum fluoride with other rare earth elements is used to obtain luminescent particles, which may be useful to the manufacturing of electronic devices' displays and biological markers, for instance. The application of the powder of nanoparticles has limitations in some fields; to overcome this, the powder may be incorporated in a suitable polymeric matrix. In this work, lanthanum fluoride nanoparticles, undoped and doped with cerium and europium, were synthesized through the co-precipitation method in aqueous solution. Aiming the formation of solid state films, composites of nanoparticles in an elastomeric matrix, the nitrile rubber (NBR), were prepared. The flexibility and the transparency of the matrix in the regions of interest are advantages for the application of the luminescent composites. The composites were applied as films using the casting and the spin coating techniques and luminescent materials were obtained in the samples doped with europium and cerium. Scanning electron microscopy images showed an adequate dispersion of the particles in the matrix in both film formation techniques. Aggregates of the particles were detected in the samples which may affect the uniformity of the emission of the composites.

Polymer-Nanoparticle Composites: From Synthesis to Modern Applications

PubMed Central

Hanemann, Thomas; Szabó, Dorothée Vinga

2010-01-01

The addition of inorganic spherical nanoparticles to polymers allows the modification of the polymers physical properties as well as the implementation of new features in the polymer matrix. This review article covers considerations on special features of inorganic nanoparticles, the most important synthesis methods for ceramic nanoparticles and nanocomposites, nanoparticle surface modification, and composite formation, including drawbacks. Classical nanocomposite properties, as thermomechanical, dielectric, conductive, magnetic, as well as optical properties, will be summarized. Finally, typical existing and potential applications will be shown with the focus on new and innovative applications, like in energy storage systems.

Nanoparticles with tunable shape and composition fabricated by nanoimprint lithography.

PubMed

Alayo, Nerea; Conde-Rubio, Ana; Bausells, Joan; Borrisé, Xavier; Labarta, Amilcar; Batlle, Xavier; Pérez-Murano, Francesc

2015-11-06

Cone-like and empty cup-shaped nanoparticles of noble metals have been demonstrated to provide extraordinary optical properties for use as optical nanoanntenas or nanoresonators. However, their large-scale production is difficult via standard nanofabrication methods. We present a fabrication approach to achieve arrays of nanoparticles with tunable shape and composition by a combination of nanoimprint lithography, hard-mask definition and various forms of metal deposition. In particular, we have obtained arrays of empty cup-shaped Au nanoparticles showing an optical response with distinguishable features associated with the excitations of localized surface plasmons. Finally, this route avoids the most common drawbacks found in the fabrication of nanoparticles by conventional top-down methods, such as aspect ratio limitation, blurring, and low throughput, and it can be used to fabricate nanoparticles with heterogeneous composition.

Composite Materials with Magnetically Aligned Carbon Nanoparticles Having Enhanced Electrical Properties and Methods of Preparation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peterson, G.P. (Bud) (Inventor); Hong, Haiping (Inventor); Salem, David R. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

Magnetically aligned carbon nanoparticle composites have enhanced electrical properties. The composites comprise carbon nanoparticles, a host material, magnetically sensitive nanoparticles and a surfactant. In addition to enhanced electrical properties, the composites can have enhanced mechanical and thermal properties.

Antibacterial effect of composite resin foundation material incorporating quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine nanoparticles.

PubMed

Pietrokovski, Yoav; Nisimov, Ilana; Kesler-Shvero, Dana; Zaltsman, Natan; Beyth, Nurit

2016-10-01

As caries is the most frequent cause of the failure of composite resin-based restorations, composite resins with antibacterial properties are desirable. However, whether quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine nanoparticles can be effectively incorporated is unknown. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces viscosus of a foundation material incorporating quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine (QPEI) nanoparticles. QPEI antimicrobial nanoparticles were incorporated in a commercially available foundation material (Q Core; BJM Laboratories Ltd) at 1% wt/wt. Antibacterial efficacy against S mutans (10 6 colony-forming units [CFU]/mL) and A viscosus (10 6 CFU/mL) was examined by the direct contact test (DCT), and the agar diffusion test (ADT) with and without surface polishing. Bacterial outgrowth was recorded with a spectrophotometer. Growth of S mutans and A viscosus was inhibited, showing a decrease by 6 orders of magnitude in bacterial viability in specimens incorporating the nanoparticles, even after polishing the foundation material (P<.05). Growth inhibition was not observed in specimens without nanoparticles. Antibacterial properties can be achieved in a commercially available foundation material by incorporating polycationic antibacterial nanoparticles. This antibacterial effect did not diminish after surface polishing. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thermal dewetting behavior of polystyrene composite thin films with organic-modified inorganic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Kubo, Masaki; Takahashi, Yosuke; Fujii, Takeshi; Liu, Yang; Sugioka, Ken-ichi; Tsukada, Takao; Minami, Kimitaka; Adschiri, Tadafumi

2014-07-29

The thermal dewetting of polystyrene composite thin films with oleic acid-modified CeO2 nanoparticles prepared by the supercritical hydrothermal synthesis method was investigated, varying the nanoparticle concentration (0-30 wt %), film thickness (approximately 50 and 100 nm), and surface energy of silanized silicon substrates on which the composite films were coated. The dewetting behavior of the composite thin films during thermal annealing was observed by an optical microscope. The presence of nanoparticles in the films affected the morphology of dewetting holes, and moreover suppressed the dewetting itself when the concentration was relatively high. It was revealed that there was a critical value of the surface energy of the substrate at which the dewetting occurred. In addition, the spatial distributions of nanoparticles in the composite thin films before thermal annealing were investigated using AFM and TEM. As a result, we found that most of nanoparticles segregated to the surface of the film, and that such distributions of nanoparticles contribute to the stabilization of the films, by calculating the interfacial potential of the films with nanoparticles.

Development of chitosan-pullulan composite nanoparticles for nasal delivery of vaccines: in vivo studies.

PubMed

Cevher, Erdal; Salomon, Stefan K; Somavarapu, Satyanarayana; Brocchini, Steve; Alpar, H Oya

2015-01-01

Here, we aimed at developing chitosan/pullulan composite nanoparticles and testing their potential as novel systems for the nasal delivery of diphtheria toxoid (DT). All the chitosan derivatives [N-trimethyl (TMC), chloride and glutamate] and carboxymethyl pullulan (CMP) were synthesised and antigen-loaded composites were prepared by polyion complexation of chitosan and pullulan derivatives (particle size: 239-405 nm; surface charge: +18 and +27 mV). Their immunological effects after intranasal administration to mice were compared to intramuscular route. Composite nanoparticles induced higher levels of IgG responses than particles formed with chitosan derivative and antigen. Nasally administered TMC-pullulan composites showed higher DT serum IgG titre when compared with the other composites. Co-encapsulation of CpG ODN within TMC-CMP-DT nanoparticles resulted in a balanced Th1/Th2 response. TMC/pullulan composite nanoparticles also induced highest cytokine levels compared to those of chitosan salts. These findings demonstrated that TMC-CMP-DT composite nanoparticles are promising delivery system for nasal vaccination.

Carbon composites with metal nanoparticles for Alcohol fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ventrapragada, Lakshman; Siddhardha, R. S.; Podilla, Ramakrishna; Muthukumar, V. S.; Creager, Stephen; Rao, A. M.; Ramamurthy, Sai Sathish

2015-03-01

Graphene due to its high surface area and superior conductivity has attracted wide attention from both industrial and scientific communities. We chose graphene as a substrate for metal nanoparticle deposition for fuel cell applications. There are many chemical routes for fabrication of metal-graphene composites, but they have an inherent disadvantage of low performance due to the usage of surfactants, that adsorb on their surface. Here we present a design for one pot synthesis of gold nanoparticles and simultaneous deposition on graphene with laser ablation of gold strip and functionalized graphene. In this process there are two natural advantages, the nanoparticles are synthesized without any surfactants, therefore they are pristine and subsequent impregnation on graphene is linker free. These materials are well characterized with electron microscopy to find their morphology and spectroscopic techniques like Raman, UV-Vis. for functionality. This gold nanoparticle decorated graphene composite has been tested for its electrocatalytic oxidation of alcohols for alkaline fuel cell applications. An electrode made of this composite showed good stability for more than 200 cycles of operation and reported a low onset potential of 100 mV more negative, an important factor for direct ethanol fuel cells.

Enhancement of the Optoelectronic Properties of PEDOT: PSS-PbS Nanoparticles Composite Thin Films Through Nanoparticles' Capping Ligand Exchange

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García-Gutiérrez, Diana F.; Hernández-Casillas, Laura P.; Sepúlveda-Guzmán, Selene; Vazquez-Rodriguez, Sofia; García-Gutiérrez, Domingo I.

2018-02-01

The influence of the capping ligand on nanoparticles' optical and electronic properties is a topic of great interest currently being investigated by several research groups in different countries. In the present study, PbS nanoparticles originally synthesized with oleic acid, myristic acid and hexanoic acid underwent a ligand exchange process to replace the original carboxylic acid for uc(l)-cysteine as the capping layer, and were thoroughly characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy and its related techniques, such as energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and scanning-transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared, Raman and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Afterwards, these PbS nanoparticles were dispersed into a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) matrix to fabricate a composite thin film which displayed the optical absorption properties of the PbS nanoparticles and the electrical transport properties of the PEDOT:PSS matrix, in order to evaluate the impact of the nanoparticles' capping ligand on the optoelectronic properties of the fabricated composite thin films. Composite thin films with PbS nanoparticles showing uc(l)-cysteine as the capping layer displayed clear photoresponse and a threefold increment in their conductivities compared to pristine PEDOT:PSS. The properties of PEDOT:PSS, known as a hole transport layer in most organic photovoltaic devices, were enhanced by adding PbS nanoparticles with different capping ligands, producing a promising composite material for optoelectronic applications by proper selection of the nanoparticles' capping layer.

Determining the composition of gold nanoparticles: a compilation of shapes, sizes, and calculations using geometric considerations.

PubMed

Mori, Taizo; Hegmann, Torsten

2016-01-01

Size, shape, overall composition, and surface functionality largely determine the properties and applications of metal nanoparticles. Aside from well-defined metal clusters, their composition is often estimated assuming a quasi-spherical shape of the nanoparticle core. With decreasing diameter of the assumed circumscribed sphere, particularly in the range of only a few nanometers, the estimated nanoparticle composition increasingly deviates from the real composition, leading to significant discrepancies between anticipated and experimentally observed composition, properties, and characteristics. We here assembled a compendium of tables, models, and equations for thiol-protected gold nanoparticles that will allow experimental scientists to more accurately estimate the composition of their gold nanoparticles using TEM image analysis data. The estimates obtained from following the routines described here will then serve as a guide for further analytical characterization of as-synthesized gold nanoparticles by other bulk (thermal, structural, chemical, and compositional) and surface characterization techniques. While the tables, models, and equations are dedicated to gold nanoparticles, the composition of other metal nanoparticle cores with face-centered cubic lattices can easily be estimated simply by substituting the value for the radius of the metal atom of interest.

Nanoparticle Filtration in a RTM Processed Epoxy/Carbon Fiber Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Sandi G.; Micham, Logan; Copa, Christine C.; Criss, James M., Jr.; Mintz, Eric A.

2011-01-01

Several epoxy matrix composite panels were fabricated by resin transfer molding (RTM) E862/W resin onto a triaxially braided carbon fiber pre-form. Nanoparticles including carbon nanofiber, synthetic clay, and functionalized graphite were dispersed in the E862 matrix, and the extent of particle filtration during processing was characterized. Nanoparticle dispersion in the resin flashing on both the inlet and outlet edges of the panel was compared by TEM. Variation in physical properties such as Tg and moisture absorption throughout the panel were also characterized. All nanoparticle filled panels showed a decrease in Tg along the resin flow path across the panel, indicating nanoparticle filtration, however there was little change in moisture absorption. This works illustrates the need to obtain good nano-particle dispersion in the matrix resin to prevent particle agglomeration and hence particle filtration in the resultant polymer matrix composites (PMC).

Fabrication of submicron structures in nanoparticle/polymer composite by holographic lithography and reactive ion etching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, A. Ping; He, Sailing; Kim, Kyoung Tae; Yoon, Yong-Kyu; Burzynski, Ryszard; Samoc, Marek; Prasad, Paras N.

2008-11-01

We report on the fabrication of nanoparticle/polymer submicron structures by combining holographic lithography and reactive ion etching. Silica nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed in a (SU8) polymer matrix at a high concentration, and in situ polymerization (cross-linking) is used to form a nanoparticle/polymer composite. Another photosensitive SU8 layer cast upon the nanoparticle/SU8 composite layer is structured through holographic lithography, whose pattern is finally transferred to the nanoparticle/SU8 layer by the reactive ion etching process. Honeycomb structures in a submicron scale are experimentally realized in the nanoparticle/SU8 composite.

Synthesis, Characterization, In Vitro Bioactivity and Biocompatibility Evaluation of Hydroxyapatite/Bredigite (Ca7MgSi4O16) Composite Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kouhi, Monireh; Shamanian, Morteza; Fathi, Mohammadhossein; Samadikuchaksaraei, Ali; Mehdipour, Ahmad

2016-04-01

Silicate-based bioceramics have been found to possess excellent apatite-forming ability, and they can stimulate cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. In this study, bredigite (Ca7MgSi4O16) nanoparticles were synthesized and incorporated into a hydroxyapatite (HA)-based matrix to produce composite nanoparticles with improved bioactivity and biocompatibility. HA/bredigite nanoparticles containing 25% and 50% bredigite were synthesized by using the sol-gel method. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared techniques were used to study the phase structure, morphology, and structural properties of prepared nanoparticles. Results indicated that HA/bredigite nanoparticles with an average particle size of less than 50 nm and homogeneous distribution of bredigite were successfully synthesized. Obtained results also revealed that the presence of bredigite led to a small increase in HA lattice parameters and to a decrease in the agglomeration of composite nanoparticles. The in vitro bioactivity studies performed in the simulated body fluid showed that composite nanoparticles had higher apatite-forming ability than pure HA. The results of a cell proliferation assay revealed that the proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells in the extract of HA/bredigite was significantly higher than those in the extract of the initial HA and control group after 72 h. As the properties of HA/bredigite nanoparticles were highly improved, compared with pure HA, it is concluded that these composite nanoparticles could potentially be good candidates for use as effective bioactive materials in bone regeneration applications.

Exchange Bias Effects in Iron Oxide-Based Nanoparticle Systems

DOE PAGES

Phan, Manh-Huong; Alonso, Javier; Khurshid, Hafsa; ...

2016-11-23

The exploration of exchange bias (EB) on the nanoscale provides a novel approach to improving the anisotropic properties of magnetic nanoparticles for prospective applications in nanospintronics and nanomedicine. However, the physical origin of EB is not fully understood. Recent advances in chemical synthesis provide a unique opportunity to explore EB in a variety of iron oxide-based nanostructures ranging from core/shell to hollow and hybrid composite nanoparticles. Experimental and atomistic Monte Carlo studies have shed light on the roles of interface and surface spins in these nanosystems. This review paper aims to provide a thorough understanding of the EB and relatedmore » phenomena in iron oxide-based nanoparticle systems, knowledge of which is essential to tune the anisotropic magnetic properties of exchange-coupled nanoparticle systems for potential applications.« less

Exchange Bias Effects in Iron Oxide-Based Nanoparticle Systems

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

Phan, Manh-Huong; Alonso, Javier; Khurshid, Hafsa

The exploration of exchange bias (EB) on the nanoscale provides a novel approach to improving the anisotropic properties of magnetic nanoparticles for prospective applications in nanospintronics and nanomedicine. However, the physical origin of EB is not fully understood. Recent advances in chemical synthesis provide a unique opportunity to explore EB in a variety of iron oxide-based nanostructures ranging from core/shell to hollow and hybrid composite nanoparticles. Experimental and atomistic Monte Carlo studies have shed light on the roles of interface and surface spins in these nanosystems. This review paper aims to provide a thorough understanding of the EB and relatedmore » phenomena in iron oxide-based nanoparticle systems, knowledge of which is essential to tune the anisotropic magnetic properties of exchange-coupled nanoparticle systems for potential applications.« less

Exchange Bias Effects in Iron Oxide-Based Nanoparticle Systems

PubMed Central

Phan, Manh-Huong; Alonso, Javier; Khurshid, Hafsa; Lampen-Kelley, Paula; Chandra, Sayan; Stojak Repa, Kristen; Nemati, Zohreh; Das, Raja; Iglesias, Óscar; Srikanth, Hariharan

2016-01-01

The exploration of exchange bias (EB) on the nanoscale provides a novel approach to improving the anisotropic properties of magnetic nanoparticles for prospective applications in nanospintronics and nanomedicine. However, the physical origin of EB is not fully understood. Recent advances in chemical synthesis provide a unique opportunity to explore EB in a variety of iron oxide-based nanostructures ranging from core/shell to hollow and hybrid composite nanoparticles. Experimental and atomistic Monte Carlo studies have shed light on the roles of interface and surface spins in these nanosystems. This review paper aims to provide a thorough understanding of the EB and related phenomena in iron oxide-based nanoparticle systems, knowledge of which is essential to tune the anisotropic magnetic properties of exchange-coupled nanoparticle systems for potential applications. PMID:28335349

Carbon Materials Metal/Metal Oxide Nanoparticle Composite and Battery Anode Composed of the Same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, Ching-Cheh (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A method of forming a composite material for use as an anode for a lithium-ion battery is disclosed. The steps include selecting a carbon material as a constituent part of the composite, chemically treating the selected carbon material to receive nanoparticles, incorporating nanoparticles into the chemically treated carbon material and removing surface nanoparticles from an outside surface of the carbon material with incorporated nanoparticles. A material making up the nanoparticles alloys with lithium.

Investigation of the influence of protein corona composition on gold nanoparticle bioactivity using machine learning approaches.

PubMed

Papa, E; Doucet, J P; Sangion, A; Doucet-Panaye, A

2016-07-01

The understanding of the mechanisms and interactions that occur when nanomaterials enter biological systems is important to improve their future use. The adsorption of proteins from biological fluids in a physiological environment to form a corona on the surface of nanoparticles represents a key step that influences nanoparticle behaviour. In this study, the quantitative description of the composition of the protein corona was used to study the effect on cell association induced by 84 surface-modified gold nanoparticles of different sizes. Quantitative relationships between the protein corona and the activity of the gold nanoparticles were modelled by using several machine learning-based linear and non-linear approaches. Models based on a selection of only six serum proteins had robust and predictive results. The Projection Pursuit Regression method had the best performances (r(2) = 0.91; Q(2)loo = 0.81; r(2)ext = 0.79). The present study confirmed the utility of protein corona composition to predict the bioactivity of gold nanoparticles and identified the main proteins that act as promoters or inhibitors of cell association. In addition, the comparison of several techniques showed which strategies offer the best results in prediction and could be used to support new toxicological studies on gold-based nanomaterials.

Methods, compositions and kits for imaging cells and tissues using nanoparticles and spatial frequency heterodyne imaging

DOEpatents

Rose-Petruck, Christoph; Wands, Jack R.; Rand, Danielle; Derdak, Zoltan; Ortiz, Vivian

2016-04-19

Methods, compositions, systems, devices and kits are provided herein for preparing and using a nanoparticle composition and spatial frequency heterodyne imaging for visualizing cells or tissues. In various embodiments, the nanoparticle composition includes at least one of: a nanoparticle, a polymer layer, and a binding agent, such that the polymer layer coats the nanoparticle and is for example a polyethylene glycol, a polyelectrolyte, an anionic polymer, or a cationic polymer, and such that the binding agent that specifically binds the cells or the tissue. Methods, compositions, systems, devices and kits are provided for identifying potential therapeutic agents in a model using the nanoparticle composition and spatial frequency heterodyne imaging.

Preparation of SiO2@Ag Composite Nanoparticles and Their Antimicrobial Activity.

PubMed

Qin, Rui; Li, Guian; Pan, Liping; Han, Qingyan; Sun, Yan; He, Qiao

2017-04-01

At normal atmospheric temperature, the modified sol–gel method was employed to synthesize SiO2 nanospheres (SiO2 NSs) whose average size was about 352 nm. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were uniformly distributed on the surface of SiO2 nanospheres (SiO2 NSs) by applying chemical reduction method at 95 °C and the size of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) could be controlled by simply tuning the reaction time and the concentration of sodium citrate. Besides, the size, morphology, structure and optical absorption properties of SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles were measured and characterized by laser particle size analyzer (LPSA), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and ultraviolet visible absorption spectrometer (UV-Vis), respectively. Furthermore, antimicrobial effect experiments that against gram-negative bacteria (E. coli) and gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) were carried out to characterize the antibacterial activity of synthesized SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles. The results show that the prepared SiO2@Ag composite nanoparticles have strong antimicrobial activity, which is associated with the size of silver nanoparticles.

Self-assembled thin films of Fe3O4-Ag composite nanoparticles for spintronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Chengpeng; Leung, Chi Wah; Pong, Philip W. T.

2017-10-01

Controlled self-assembly of multi-component magnetic nanoparticles could lead to nanomaterial-based magnetic devices with novel structures and intriguing properties. Herein, self-assembled thin films of Fe3O4-Ag composite nanoparticles (CNPs) with hetero-dimeric shapes were fabricated using interfacial assembly method. The CNP-assembled thin films were further transferred to patterned silicon substrates followed by vacuum annealing, producing CNP-based magnetoresistive (MR) devices. Due to the presence of intra-particle interfaces and inter-particle barriers, an enhanced MR ratio and a non-linear current-voltage relation were observed in the device. The results of this work can potentially pave the way to the future exploration and development of spintronic devices built from composite nanomaterials.

Effects of oleic acid surface coating on the properties of nickel ferrite nanoparticles/PLA composites.

PubMed

Yin, Hong; Chow, Gan-Moog

2009-11-01

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles with or without oleic acid surface coating were mixed with poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA) by double emulsion method. If the nanoparticles were prepared without oleic acid coating, they adsorbed on the PLA surface. If the nanoparticles were coated with oleic acid, they could be readily encapsulated within the PLA microspheres. A slight depression in glass transition temperature was found in all composites and it could be related to the interfacial energies between nanoparticles and PLA. Optimum mixed composite was achieved by reducing interfacial energy. However, loading capacity was limited in this composite. Increasing the amount of nickel ferrite nanoparticles was not useful to increase loading capacity. Cytotoxicity of the composite decreased significantly when nickel ferrite nanoparticles were effectively encapsulated in PLA microspheres. (c) 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Dynamic behavior of reactive aluminum nanoparticle-fluorinated acrylic (AlFA) polymer composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crouse, Christopher A.; White, Brad; Spowart, Jonathan E.

2011-06-01

The dynamic behavior of aluminum nanoparticle-fluorinated acrylic (AlFA) composite materials has been explored under high strain rates. Cylindrical pellets of the AlFA composite materials were mounted onto copper sabots and impacted against a rigid anvil at velocities between 100 and 400 m/s utilizing a Taylor gas gun apparatus to achieve strain rates on the order of 104 /s. A framing camera was used to record the compaction and reaction events that occurred upon contact of the pellet with the anvil. Under both open air and vacuum environments the AlFA composites demonstrated high reactivity suggesting that the particles are primarily reacting with the fluorinated matrix. We hypothesize, based upon the compaction history of these materials, that reaction is initiated when the oxide shells on the aluminum nanoparticles are broken due an interparticle contact deformation process. We have investigated this hypothesis through altering the particle loading in the AlFA composites as well as impact velocities. This data and the corresponding trends will be presented in detail.

Polymer film-nanoparticle composites as new multimodality, non-migrating breast biopsy markers.

PubMed

Kaplan, Jonah A; Grinstaff, Mark W; Bloch, B Nicolas

2016-03-01

To develop a breast biopsy marker that resists fast and slow migration and has permanent visibility under commonly used imaging modalities. A polymer-nanoparticle composite film was prepared by embedding superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and a superelastic Nitinol wire within a flexible polyethylene matrix. MRI, mammography, and ultrasound were used to visualize the marker in agar, ex vivo chicken breast, bovine liver, brisket, and biopsy training phantoms. Fast migration caused by the "accordion effect" was quantified after simulated stereotactic, vacuum-assisted core biopsy/marker placement, and centrifugation was used to simulate accelerated long-term (i.e., slow) migration in ex vivo bovine tissue phantoms. Clear marker visualization under MRI, mammography, and ultrasound was observed. After deployment, the marker partially unfolds to give a geometrically constrained structure preventing fast and slow migration. The marker can be deployed through an 11G introducer without fast migration occurring, and shows substantially less slow migration than conventional markers. The polymer-nanoparticle composite biopsy marker is clearly visible on all clinical imaging modalities and does not show substantial migration, which ensures multimodal assessment of the correct spatial information of the biopsy site, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning and improved breast cancer patient care. Polymer-nanoparticle composite biopsy markers are visualized using ultrasound, MRI, and mammography. Embedded iron oxide nanoparticles provide tuneable contrast for MRI visualization. Permanent ultrasound visibility is achieved with a non-biodegradable polymer having a distinct ultrasound signal. Flexible polymer-based biopsy markers undergo shape change upon deployment to minimize migration. Non-migrating multimodal markers will help improve accuracy of pre/post-treatment planning studies.

Protein Corona Composition Does Not Accurately Predict Hematocompatibility of Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Dobrovolskaia, Marina A.; Neun, Barry W.; Man, Sonny; Ye, Xiaoying; Hansen, Matthew; Patri, Anil K.; Crist, Rachael M.; McNeil, Scott E.

2014-01-01

Proteins bound to nanoparticle surfaces are known to affect particle clearance by influencing immune cell uptake and distribution to the organs of the mononuclear phagocytic system. The composition of the protein corona has been described for several types of nanomaterials, but the role of the corona in nanoparticle biocompatibility is not well established. In this study we investigate the role of nanoparticle surface properties (PEGylation) and incubation times on the protein coronas of colloidal gold nanoparticles. While neither incubation time nor PEG molecular weight affected the specific proteins in the protein corona, the total amount of protein binding was governed by the molecular weight of PEG coating. Furthermore, the composition of the protein corona did not correlate with nanoparticle hematocompatibility. Specialized hematological tests should be used to deduce nanoparticle hematotoxicity. PMID:24512761

Magnetic hydrogel nanocomposites and composite nanoparticles--a review of recent patented works.

PubMed

Daniel-da-Silva, Ana L; Carvalho, Rui S; Trindade, Tito

2013-06-01

Magnetic hydrogel nanocomposites and composite nanoparticles form a class of soft materials with remote controllable properties that have attracted great attention due to their potential use in diverse applications. These include medical applications such as controlled drug delivery, clinical imaging and cancer hyperthermia and ecological applications as well, such as wastewater treatment. The present review provides an overview of the patents disclosed and research work developed in the last decade on magnetic hydrogel nanocomposites and magnetic hydrogel composite nanoparticles envisaging the above mentioned applications. In this context, recent patented advances on chemical methods for the preparation of bulk hydrogel nanocomposites and composite nanoparticles will be reviewed.

Candle soot nanoparticles-polydimethylsiloxane composites for laser ultrasound transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Wei-Yi; Huang, Wenbin; Kim, Jinwook; Li, Sibo; Jiang, Xiaoning

2015-10-01

Generation of high power laser ultrasound strongly demands the advanced materials with efficient laser energy absorption, fast thermal diffusion, and large thermoelastic expansion capabilities. In this study, candle soot nanoparticles-polydimethylsiloxane (CSNPs-PDMS) composite was investigated as the functional layer for an optoacoustic transducer with high-energy conversion efficiency. The mean diameter of the collected candle soot carbon nanoparticles is about 45 nm, and the light absorption ratio at 532 nm wavelength is up to 96.24%. The prototyped CSNPs-PDMS nano-composite laser ultrasound transducer was characterized and compared with transducers using Cr-PDMS, carbon black (CB)-PDMS, and carbon nano-fiber (CNFs)-PDMS composites, respectively. Energy conversion coefficient and -6 dB frequency bandwidth of the CSNPs-PDMS composite laser ultrasound transducer were measured to be 4.41 × 10-3 and 21 MHz, respectively. The unprecedented laser ultrasound transduction performance using CSNPs-PDMS nano-composites is promising for a broad range of ultrasound therapy applications.

Ferroelectric properties of composites containing BaTiO 3 nanoparticles of various sizes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adam, Jens; Lehnert, Tobias; Klein, Gabi; McMeeking, Robert M.

2014-01-01

Size effects, including the occurrence of superparaelectric phases associated with small scale, are a significant research topic for ferroelectrics. Relevant phenomena have been explored in detail, e.g. for homogeneous, thin ferroelectric films, but the related effects associated with nanoparticles are usually only inferred from their structural properties. In contrast, this paper describes all the steps and concepts necessary for the direct characterization and quantitative assessment of the ferroelectric properties of as-synthesized and as-received nanoparticles. The method adopted uses electrical polarization measurements on polymer matrix composites containing ferroelectric nanoparticles. It is applied to ten different BaTiO3 particle types covering a size range from 10 nm to 0.8 μm. The influence of variations of particle characteristics such as tetragonality and dielectric constant is considered based on measurements of these properties. For composites containing different particle types a clearly differing polarization behaviour is found. For decreasing particle size, increasing electric field is required to achieve a given level of polarization. The size dependence of a measure related to the coercive field revealed by this work is qualitatively in line with the state of the knowledge for ferroelectrics having small dimensions. For the first time, such results and size effects are described based on data from experiments on collections of actual nanoparticles.

Ag–Pt compositional intermetallics made from alloy nanoparticles

DOE PAGES

Pan, Yung -Tin; Yan, Yuqi; Shao, Yu -Tsun; ...

2016-09-07

Intermetallics are compounds with long-range structural order that often lies in a state of thermodynamic minimum. They are usually considered as favorable structures for catalysis due to their high activity and robust stability. However, formation of intermetallic compounds is often regarded as element specific. For instance, Ag and Pt do not form alloy in bulk phase through the conventional metallurgy approach in almost the entire range of composition. Herein, we demonstrate a bottom-up approach to create a new Ag–Pt compositional intermetallic phase from nanoparticles. By thermally treating the corresponding alloy nanoparticles in inert atmosphere, we obtained an intermetallic material thatmore » has an exceptionally narrow Ag/Pt ratio around 52/48 to 53/47, and a structure of interchangeable closely packed Ag and Pt layers with 85% on tetrahedral and 15% on octahedral sites. This rather unique stacking results in wavy patterns of Ag and Pt planes revealed by scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Finally, this Ag–Pt compositional intermetallic phase is highly active for electrochemical oxidation of formic acid at low anodic potentials, 5 times higher than its alloy nanoparticles, and 29 times higher than the reference Pt/C at 0.4 V (vs RHE) in current density.« less

Ag–Pt compositional intermetallics made from alloy nanoparticles

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

Pan, Yung -Tin; Yan, Yuqi; Shao, Yu -Tsun

Intermetallics are compounds with long-range structural order that often lies in a state of thermodynamic minimum. They are usually considered as favorable structures for catalysis due to their high activity and robust stability. However, formation of intermetallic compounds is often regarded as element specific. For instance, Ag and Pt do not form alloy in bulk phase through the conventional metallurgy approach in almost the entire range of composition. Herein, we demonstrate a bottom-up approach to create a new Ag–Pt compositional intermetallic phase from nanoparticles. By thermally treating the corresponding alloy nanoparticles in inert atmosphere, we obtained an intermetallic material thatmore » has an exceptionally narrow Ag/Pt ratio around 52/48 to 53/47, and a structure of interchangeable closely packed Ag and Pt layers with 85% on tetrahedral and 15% on octahedral sites. This rather unique stacking results in wavy patterns of Ag and Pt planes revealed by scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Finally, this Ag–Pt compositional intermetallic phase is highly active for electrochemical oxidation of formic acid at low anodic potentials, 5 times higher than its alloy nanoparticles, and 29 times higher than the reference Pt/C at 0.4 V (vs RHE) in current density.« less

Maghemite based silicone composite for arterial embolization hyperthermia.

PubMed

Smolkova, Ilona S; Kazantseva, Natalia E; Makoveckaya, Kira N; Smolka, Petr; Saha, Petr; Granov, Anatoly M

2015-03-01

Maghemite nanoparticle based silicone composite for application in arterial embolization hyperthermia is developed. It possesses embolization ability, high heating efficiency in alternating magnetic fields and radiopaque property. The initial components of the composite are selected so that the material stays liquid for 20min, providing the opportunity for transcatheter transportation and filling of the tumour vascular system. After this induction period the viscosity increases rapidly and soft embolus is formed which is able to occlude the tumour blood vessels. The composite is thermally stable up to 225°C, displays rubber-elastic properties and has a thermal expansion coefficient higher than that of blood. Maghemite nanoparticles uniformly distributed in the composite provide its rapid heating (tens of °Cmin(-1)) due to Neel magnetization relaxation. Required X-ray contrast of composite is achieved by addition of potassium iodide. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Amperometric L-lysine biosensor based on carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes-SnO2 nanoparticles-graphene composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaçar, Ceren; Erden, Pınar Esra; Kılıç, Esma

2017-10-01

A novel matrix, carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes-tin oxide nanoparticles-graphene-chitosan (c-MWCNTs-SnO2-GR-CS) composite, was prepared for biosensor construction. Lysine oxidase (LOx) enzyme was immobilized covalently on the surface of c-MWCNTs-GR-SnO2-CS composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) using N-ethyl-N‧-(3-dimethyaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxyl succinimide (NHS). Effects of electrode composition and buffer pH on biosensor response were investigated to optimize the working conditions. The biosensor exhibited wide linear range (9.9 × 10-7 M-1.6 × 10-4 M), low detection limit (1.5 × 10-7 M), high sensitivity (55.20 μA mM-1 cm-2) and fast amperometric response (<25 s) at +0.70 V vs. Ag/AgCl. With good repeatability and long-term stability, the c-MWCNTs-SnO2-GR-CS based biosensor offered an alternative for L-lysine biosensing. The practical applicability of the biosensor in two dietary supplements has also been addressed.

Modifying the visual appearance of metal nanoparticle composites by infrared laser annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halabica, Andrej; Indrobo, J. C.; Magruder, R. H., III; Haglund, R. F., Jr.; Epp, J. M.; Rashkeev, S.; Boatner, L. A.; Pennycook, S. J.; Pantelides, S. T.

2007-03-01

It has long been known that noble-metal nanoparticles in insulators can alter their visual appearance. Many metal nanoparticle composites can be created by ion implantation and subsequent annealing to initiate phase separation, nucleation and growth of nanoparticles. The size and size distribution of the nanoparticles - and therefore the color of the composite - are determined by the chemistry and thermodynamics of the annealing process. In this paper we report that we can also alter the color of gold- and silver-implanted silica and alumina by tunable infrared laser irradiation. Essentially a variant of rapid thermal annealing, this laser treatment can shift the plasmon band of the nanoparticles by tens of nm, resulting in significantly altered visual appearance. The amount of energy delivered to the implanted layer, and the subsequent color variation, can be adjusted by changing the wavelength and fluence of the laser. This makes it possible, as we will show, to write or pattern the composite material with 200 μm linewidths. This work is partially supported by DOE (DE-AC05-00OR22725), NSF (DMR-0513048), and by Alcoa Inc.

In-situ synthesis of magnetic iron-oxide nanoparticle-nanofibre composites using electrospinning.

PubMed

Burke, Luke; Mortimer, Chris J; Curtis, Daniel J; Lewis, Aled R; Williams, Rhodri; Hawkins, Karl; Maffeis, Thierry G G; Wright, Chris J

2017-01-01

We demonstrate a facile, one-step process to form polymer scaffolds composed of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) contained within electrospun nano- and micro-fibres of two biocompatible polymers, Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP). This was achieved with both needle and free-surface electrospinning systems demonstrating the scalability of the composite fibre manufacture; a 228 fold increase in fibre fabrication was observed for the free-surface system. In all cases the nanoparticle-nanofibre composite scaffolds displayed morphological properties as good as or better than those previously described and fabricated using complex multi-stage techniques. Fibres produced had an average diameter (Needle-spun: 125±18nm (PEO) and 1.58±0.28μm (PVP); Free-surface electrospun: 155±31nm (PEO)) similar to that reported previously, were smooth with no bead defects. Nanoparticle-nanofibre composites were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), dynamic light scattering (DLS) (Nanoparticle average diameter ranging from 8±3nm to 27±5nm), XRD (Phase of iron oxide nanoparticles identified as magnetite) and nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation measurements (NMR) (T1/T2: 32.44 for PEO fibres containing MNPs) were used to verify the magnetic behaviour of MNPs. This study represents a significant step forward for production rates of magnetic nanoparticle-nanofibre composite scaffolds by the electrospinning technique. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SERS of semiconducting nanoparticles (TIO{sub 2} hybrid composites).

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

Rajh, T.; Musumeci, A.; Gosztola, D.

Raman scattering of molecules adsorbed on the surface of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles was investigated. We find strong enhancement of Raman scattering in hybrid composites that exhibit charge transfer absorption with TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. An enhancement factor up to {approx}10{sup 3} was observed in the solutions containing TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles and biomolecules, including the important class of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and dopac (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylacetic acid). Only selected vibrations are enhanced, indicating molecular specificity due to distinct binding and orientation of the biomolecules coupled to the TiO{sub 2} surface. All enhanced modes are associated with the asymmetric vibrations of attached molecules thatmore » lower the symmetry of the charge transfer complex. The intensity and the energy of selected vibrations are dependent on the size and shape of nanoparticle support. Moreover, we show that localization of the charge in quantized nanoparticles (2 nm), demonstrated as the blue shift of particle absorption, diminishes SERS enhancement. Importantly, the smallest concentration of adsorbed molecules shows the largest Raman enhancements suggesting the possibility for high sensitivity of this system in the detection of biomolecules that form a charge transfer complex with metal oxide nanoparticles. The wavelength-dependent properties of a hybrid composite suggest a Raman resonant state. Adsorbed molecules that do not show a charge transfer complex show weak enhancements probably due to the dielectric cavity effect.« less

Understanding the Enhanced Catalytic Performance of Ultrafine Transition Metal Nanoparticles-Graphene Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xin; Meng, Changgong; Han, Yu

2015-09-01

Catalysis, as the key to minimize the energy requirement and environmental impact of today's chemical industry, plays a vital role in many fields directly related to our daily life and economy, including energy generation, environment control, manufacture of chemicals, medicine synthesis, etc. Rational design and fabrication of highly efficient catalysts have become the ultimate goal of today's catalysis research. For the purpose of handling and product separation, heterogeneous catalysts are highly preferred for industrial applications and a large part of which are the composites of transition metal nanoparticles (TMNPs). With the fast development of nanoscience and nanotechnology and assisted with theoretical investigations, basic understanding on tailoring the electronic structure of these nanocomposites has been gained, mainly by precise control of the composition, morphology, interfacial structure and electronic states. With the rise of graphene, chemical routes to prepare graphene were developed and various graphene-based composites were fabricated. Transition metal nanoparticles-reduced graphene oxide (TMNPs-rGO) composites have attracted considerable attention, because of their intriguing catalytic performance which have been extensively explored for energy- and environment-related applications to date. This review summarizes our recent experimental and theoretical efforts on understanding the superior catalytic performance of subnanosized TMNPs-rGO composites.

Multi-Ferroic Polymer Nanoparticle Composites for Next Generation Metamaterials

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-28

particle size of magnetite nanoparticles. The PI will continue to develop composites that could be utilized for developing high- bandwidth radio frequency...to improve the efficiency and decrease the size of the device. High performance stretchable magneto-dielectric materials can be accomplished using...nanoparticles oxidize at dimensions smaller than the critical size for superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic transition, which is essential for minimal

Developing a predictive model for the chemical composition of soot nanoparticles

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

Violi, Angela; Michelsen, Hope; Hansen, Nils

In order to provide the scientific foundation to enable technology breakthroughs in transportation fuel, it is important to develop a combustion modeling capability to optimize the operation and design of evolving fuels in advanced engines for transportation applications. The goal of this proposal is to develop a validated predictive model to describe the chemical composition of soot nanoparticles in premixed and diffusion flames. Atomistic studies in conjunction with state-of-the-art experiments are the distinguishing characteristics of this unique interdisciplinary effort. The modeling effort has been conducted at the University of Michigan by Prof. A. Violi. The experimental work has entailed amore » series of studies using different techniques to analyze gas-phase soot precursor chemistry and soot particle production in premixed and diffusion flames. Measurements have provided spatial distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other gas-phase species and size and composition of incipient soot nanoparticles for comparison with model results. The experimental team includes Dr. N. Hansen and H. Michelsen at Sandia National Labs' Combustion Research Facility, and Dr. K. Wilson as collaborator at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab's Advanced Light Source. Our results show that the chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles affect the coagulation behavior in soot formation, and our results on an experimentally validated, predictive model for the chemical composition of soot nanoparticles will not only enhance our understanding of soot formation since but will also allow the prediction of particle size distributions under combustion conditions. These results provide a novel description of soot formation based on physical and chemical properties of the particles for use in the next generation of soot models and an enhanced capability for facilitating the design of alternative fuels and the engines they will power.« less

In situ green synthesis and characterization of sericin-silver nanoparticle composite with effective antibacterial activity and good biocompatibility.

PubMed

He, Huawei; Tao, Gang; Wang, Yejing; Cai, Rui; Guo, Pengchao; Chen, Liqun; Zuo, Hua; Zhao, Ping; Xia, Qingyou

2017-11-01

Silver nanoparticle has been widely applied to a variety of fields for its outstanding antimicrobial activity. However, the stability of silver nanoparticle limits its application under certain conditions. Thus, improving the stability of silver nanoparticle via biosynthesis is a promising shortcut to expand its application. Sericin from silkworm cocoon has good hydrophilicity, reaction activity, biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this study, we developed a novel, simple, one-step biosynthesis method to prepare sericin-silver nanoparticle composite in situ in solution. Sericin served as the reductant of silver ion, the dispersant and stabilizer of the prepared sericin-silver nanoparticle composite. Natural light was the only power source used to catalyze the synthesis of silver nanoparticle in situ in solution. The novel sericin-silver nanoparticle composite was characterized by ultraviolet-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed silver nanoparticle could be synthesized through the reduction of AgNO 3 by the phenolic hydroxyl group of tyrosine residues of sericin under the catalysis of natural light. The synthesized silver nanoparticle had good crystalline, size distribution and long-term stability at room temperature. Light irradiation was essential for the preparation of sericin-silver nanoparticle composite. The antibacterial activity assay showed 25mg/L and 100mg/L were the minimum concentrations of sericin-silver nanoparticle composite required to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and kill this bacterium, respectively. The cytotoxicity assay showed cell viability and cell growth were almost not affected by sericin-silver nanoparticle composite under the concentration of 25mg/L. Our study suggested the preparation of sericin-silver nanoparticle composite was environmentally friendly and energy conservation, and the prepared sericin

Fabrication and evaluation of valsartan–polymer– surfactant composite nanoparticles by using the supercritical antisolvent process

PubMed Central

Kim, Min-Soo; Baek, In-hwan

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to fabricate valsartan composite nanoparticles by using the supercritical antisolvent (SAS) process, and to evaluate the correlation between in vitro dissolution and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters for the poorly water-soluble drug valsartan. Spherical composite nanoparticles with a mean size smaller than 400 nm, which contained valsartan, were successfully fabricated by using the SAS process. X-ray diffraction and thermal analyses indicated that valsartan was present in an amorphous form within the composite nanoparticles. The in vitro dissolution and oral bioavailability of valsartan were dramatically enhanced by the composite nanoparticles. Valsartan–hydroxypropyl methylcellulose–poloxamer 407 nanoparticles exhibited faster drug release (up to 90% within 10 minutes under all dissolution conditions) and higher oral bioavailability than the raw material, with an approximately 7.2-fold higher maximum plasma concentration. In addition, there was a positive linear correlation between the pharmacokinetic parameters and the in vitro dissolution efficiency. Therefore, the preparation of composite nanoparticles with valsartan–hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and poloxamer 407 by using the SAS process could be an effective formulation strategy for the development of a new dosage form of valsartan with high oral bioavailability. PMID:25404856

Recent advances in noble metal based composite nanocatalysts: colloidal synthesis, properties, and catalytic applications.

PubMed

Xu, Yong; Chen, Lei; Wang, Xuchun; Yao, Weitang; Zhang, Qiao

2015-06-28

This Review article provides a report on progress in the synthesis, properties and catalytic applications of noble metal based composite nanomaterials. We begin with a brief discussion on the categories of various composite materials. We then present some important colloidal synthetic approaches to the composite nanostructures; here, major attention has been paid to bimetallic nanoparticles. We also introduce some important physiochemical properties that are beneficial from composite nanomaterials. Finally, we highlight the catalytic applications of such composite nanoparticles and conclude with remarks on prospective future directions.

Development of SiC Nanoparticles and Second Phases Synergistically Reinforced Mg-Based Composites Processed by Multi-Pass Forging with Varying Temperatures.

PubMed

Nie, Kaibo; Guo, Yachao; Deng, Kunkun; Wang, Xiaojun; Wu, Kun

2018-01-13

In this study, SiC nanoparticles were added into matrix alloy through a combination of semisolid stirring and ultrasonic vibration while dynamic precipitation of second phases was obtained through multi-pass forging with varying temperatures. During single-pass forging of the present composite, as the deformation temperature increased, the extent of recrystallization increased, and grains were refined due to the inhibition effect of the increasing amount of dispersed SiC nanoparticles. A small amount of twins within the SiC nanoparticle dense zone could be found while the precipitated phases of Mg 17 Al 12 in long strips and deformation bands with high density dislocations were formed in the particle sparse zone after single-pass forging at 350 °C. This indicated that the particle sparse zone was mainly deformed by dislocation slip while the nanoparticle dense zone may have been deformed by twinning. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the composites were gradually enhanced through increasing the single-pass forging temperature from 300 °C to 400 °C, which demonstrated that initial high forging temperature contributed to the improvement of the mechanical properties. During multi-pass forging with varying temperatures, the grain size of the composite was gradually decreased while the grain size distribution tended to be uniform with reducing the deformation temperature and extending the forging passes. In addition, the amount of precipitated second phases was significantly increased compared with that after multi-pass forging under a constant temperature. The improvement in the yield strength of the developed composite was related to grain refinement strengthening and Orowan strengthening resulting from synergistical effect of the externally applied SiC nanoparticles and internally precipitated second phases.

Characterization of thermochemical properties of Al nanoparticle and NiO nanowire composites

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Thermochemical properties and microstructures of the composite of Al nanoparticles and NiO nanowires were characterized. The nanowires were synthesized using a hydrothermal method and were mixed with these nanoparticles by sonication. Electron microscopic images of these composites showed dispersed NiO nanowires decorated with Al nanoparticles. Thermal analysis suggests the influence of NiO mass ratio was insignificant with regard to the onset temperature of the observed thermite reaction, although energy release values changed dramatically with varying NiO ratios. Reaction products from the fuel-rich composites were found to include elemental Al and Ni, Al2O3, and AlNi. The production of the AlNi phase, confirmed by an ab initio molecular dynamics simulation, was associated with the formation of some metallic liquid spheres from the thermite reaction. PMID:23601907

Characterization of thermochemical properties of Al nanoparticle and NiO nanowire composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, John Z.; Ringuette, Sophie; Bohlouli-Zanjani, Golnaz; Hu, Anming; Nguyen, Ngoc Ha; Persic, John; Petre, Catalin F.; Zhou, Y. Norman

2013-04-01

Thermochemical properties and microstructures of the composite of Al nanoparticles and NiO nanowires were characterized. The nanowires were synthesized using a hydrothermal method and were mixed with these nanoparticles by sonication. Electron microscopic images of these composites showed dispersed NiO nanowires decorated with Al nanoparticles. Thermal analysis suggests the influence of NiO mass ratio was insignificant with regard to the onset temperature of the observed thermite reaction, although energy release values changed dramatically with varying NiO ratios. Reaction products from the fuel-rich composites were found to include elemental Al and Ni, Al2O3, and AlNi. The production of the AlNi phase, confirmed by an ab initio molecular dynamics simulation, was associated with the formation of some metallic liquid spheres from the thermite reaction.

Characterization of thermochemical properties of Al nanoparticle and NiO nanowire composites.

PubMed

Wen, John Z; Ringuette, Sophie; Bohlouli-Zanjani, Golnaz; Hu, Anming; Nguyen, Ngoc Ha; Persic, John; Petre, Catalin F; Zhou, Y Norman

2013-04-20

Thermochemical properties and microstructures of the composite of Al nanoparticles and NiO nanowires were characterized. The nanowires were synthesized using a hydrothermal method and were mixed with these nanoparticles by sonication. Electron microscopic images of these composites showed dispersed NiO nanowires decorated with Al nanoparticles. Thermal analysis suggests the influence of NiO mass ratio was insignificant with regard to the onset temperature of the observed thermite reaction, although energy release values changed dramatically with varying NiO ratios. Reaction products from the fuel-rich composites were found to include elemental Al and Ni, Al2O3, and AlNi. The production of the AlNi phase, confirmed by an ab initio molecular dynamics simulation, was associated with the formation of some metallic liquid spheres from the thermite reaction.

Nanoparticle-assisted high photoconductive gain in composites of polymer and fullerene.

PubMed

Chen, Hsiang-Yu; Lo, Michael K F; Yang, Guanwen; Monbouquette, Harold G; Yang, Yang

2008-09-01

Polymer-inorganic nanocrystal composites offer an attractive means to combine the merits of organic and inorganic materials into novel electronic and photonic systems. However, many applications of these composites are limited by the solubility and distribution of the nanocrystals in the polymer matrices. Here we show that blending CdTe nanoparticles into a polymer-fullerene matrix followed by solvent annealing can achieve high photoconductive gain under low applied voltages. The surface capping ligand renders the nanoparticles highly soluble in the polymer blend, thereby enabling high CdTe loadings. An external quantum efficiency as high as approximately 8,000% at 350 nm was achieved at -4.5 V. Hole-dominant devices coupled with atomic force microscopy images show a higher concentration of nanoparticles near the cathode-polymer interface. The nanoparticles and trapped electrons assist hole injection into the polymer under reverse bias, contributing to efficiency values in excess of 100%.

Bio-inspired formation of functional calcite/metal oxide nanoparticle composites.

PubMed

Kim, Yi-Yeoun; Schenk, Anna S; Walsh, Dominic; Kulak, Alexander N; Cespedes, Oscar; Meldrum, Fiona C

2014-01-21

Biominerals are invariably composite materials, where occlusion of organic macromolecules within single crystals can significantly modify their properties. In this article, we take inspiration from this biogenic strategy to generate composite crystals in which magnetite (Fe3O4) and zincite (ZnO) nanoparticles are embedded within a calcite single crystal host, thereby endowing it with new magnetic or optical properties. While growth of crystals in the presence of small molecules, macromolecules and particles can lead to their occlusion within the crystal host, this approach requires particles with specific surface chemistries. Overcoming this limitation, we here precipitate crystals within a nanoparticle-functionalised xyloglucan gel, where gels can also be incorporated within single crystals, according to their rigidity. This method is independent of the nanoparticle surface chemistry and as the gel maintains its overall structure when occluded within the crystal, the nanoparticles are maintained throughout the crystal, preventing, for example, their movement and accumulation at the crystal surface during crystal growth. This methodology is expected to be quite general, and could be used to endow a wide range of crystals with new functionalities.

Strategies for the synthesis of supported gold palladium nanoparticles with controlled morphology and composition.

PubMed

Hutchings, Graham J; Kiely, Christopher J

2013-08-20

The discovery that supported gold nanoparticles are exceptionally effective catalysts for redox reactions has led to an explosion of interest in gold nanoparticles. In addition, incorporating a second metal as an alloy with gold can enhance the catalyst performance even more. The addition of small amounts of gold to palladium, in particular, and vice versa significantly enhances the activity of supported gold-palladium nanoparticles as redox catalysts through what researchers believe is an electronic effect. In this Account, we describe and discuss methodologies for the synthesis of supported gold-palladium nanoparticles and their use as heterogeneous catalysts. In general, three key challenges need to be addressed in the synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles: (i) control of the particle morphology, (ii) control of the particle size distribution, and (iii) control of the nanoparticle composition. We describe three methodologies to address these challenges. First, we discuss the relatively simple method of coimpregnation. Impregnation allows control of particle morphology during alloy formation but does not control the particle compositions or the particle size distribution. Even so, we contend that this method is the best preparation method in the catalyst discovery phase of any project, since it permits the investigation of many different catalyst structures in one experiment, which may aid the identification of new catalysts. A second approach, sol-immobilization, allows enhanced control of the particle size distribution and the particle morphology, but control of the composition of individual nanoparticles is not possible. Finally, a modified impregnation method can allow the control of all three of these crucial parameters. We discuss the effect of the different methodologies on three redox reactions: benzyl alcohol oxidation, toluene oxidation, and the direct synthesis of hydrogen peroxide. We show that the coimpregnation method provides the best reaction

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.

pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin

PubMed Central

Sun, Shaoping; Liang, Na; Yamamoto, Hiromitsu; Kawashima, Yoshiaki; Cui, Fude; Yan, Pengfei

2015-01-01

This study proposes a new concept of pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin. Firstly, insulin–sodium oleate complex was prepared by the hydrophobic ion pairing method and then encapsulated into PLGA nanoparticles by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. In order to reduce the burst release of insulin from PLGA nanoparticles and deliver insulin to specific gastrointestinal regions, hence to enhance bioavailability of insulin, the PLGA nanoparticles were further encapsulated into Eudragit® FS 30D to prepare PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules by organic spray-drying method. The preparation was evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and the absorption mechanism was discussed. The in vitro drug release studies revealed that the drug release was pH dependent, and the in vivo results demonstrated that the formulation of PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules was an effective candidate for oral insulin delivery. PMID:25999713

pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin.

PubMed

Sun, Shaoping; Liang, Na; Yamamoto, Hiromitsu; Kawashima, Yoshiaki; Cui, Fude; Yan, Pengfei

2015-01-01

This study proposes a new concept of pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin. Firstly, insulin-sodium oleate complex was prepared by the hydrophobic ion pairing method and then encapsulated into PLGA nanoparticles by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. In order to reduce the burst release of insulin from PLGA nanoparticles and deliver insulin to specific gastrointestinal regions, hence to enhance bioavailability of insulin, the PLGA nanoparticles were further encapsulated into Eudragit(®) FS 30D to prepare PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules by organic spray-drying method. The preparation was evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and the absorption mechanism was discussed. The in vitro drug release studies revealed that the drug release was pH dependent, and the in vivo results demonstrated that the formulation of PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules was an effective candidate for oral insulin delivery.

Antibacterial Activity of Dental Composites Containing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Sevinç, Berdan Aydin; Hanley, Luke

2010-01-01

The resin-based dental composites commonly used in restorations result in more plaque accumulation than other materials. Bacterial biofilm growth contributes to secondary caries and failure of resin-based dental composites. Methods to inhibit biofilm growth on dental composites have been sought for several decades. It is demonstrated here that zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) blended at 10% (w/w) fraction into dental composites display antimicrobial activity and reduce growth of bacterial biofilms by roughly 80% for a single-species model dental biofilm. Antibacterial effectiveness of ZnO-NPs was assessed against Streptococcus sobrinus ATCC 27352 grown both planktonically and as biofilms on composites. Direct contact inhibition was observed by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy while biofilm formation was quantified by viable counts. An 80% reduction in bacterial counts was observed with 10% ZnO-NP-containing composites compared with their unmodified counterpart, indicating a statistically significant suppression of biofilm growth. Although, 20% of the bacterial population survived and could form a biofilm layer again, 10% ZnO-NP-containing composites maintained at least some inhibitory activity even after the third generation of biofilm growth. Microscopy demonstrated continuous biofilm formation for unmodified composites after one day growth, but only sparsely distributed biofilms formed on 10% ZnO-NP-containing composites. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ZnO-NPs suspended in S. sobrinus planktonic culture was 50 μg/ml. 10% ZnO-NP-containing composites qualitatively showed less biofilm after one day anaerobic growth of a three-species initial colonizer biofilm after when compared to unmodified composites, but did not significantly reduce growth after three days. PMID:20225252

PHOTONICS AND NANOTECHNOLOGY Laser synthesis and modification of composite nanoparticles in liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarasenko, N. V.; Butsen, A. V.

2010-12-01

The works devoted to the formation and modification of nanoparticles using laser ablation of solid targets in liquids are reviewed. Several approaches to implement laser ablation in liquids, aimed at synthesising nanoparticles of complex composition, are considered: direct laser ablation of a target of corresponding composition, laser ablation of a combined target composed of two different metals, laser irradiation of a mixture of two or more colloidal solutions, and laser ablation in reactive liquids. The properties of two-component bimetallic systems (Ag — Cu, Ag — Au), semiconductor nanocrystals (ZnO, CdSe), chalcopyrite nanoparticles, and doped oxide nanoparticles (ZnO:Ag, Gd2O2:Tb3+) formed as a result of single- and double-pulse laser ablation in different liquids (water, ethanol, acetone, solutions of polysaccharides) are discussed.

Synthesis of Core-Shell Nanoparticle Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-17

Mawson Institute, University of South Australia 1 Final Report Contract Number FA2386-09-1-4043 Synthesis of Core-Shell Nanoparticle Composites...CI: Peter Majewski, School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering, Mawson Institute, University of South Australia, peter.majewski...5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Blvd., Mawson Lakes SA, Australia

Structural and thermal properties of silk fibroin - Silver nanoparticles composite films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shivananda, C. S.; Rao B, B. Lakshmeesha; Shetty, G. Rajesh; Sangappa, Y.

2018-05-01

In this work, silk fibroin-silver nanoparticles (SF-AgNPs) composite films have been prepared by simple solution casting method. The composite films were examined for structural and thermal properties using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimatric (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The XRD results showed that with the introduction of AgNPs in the silk fibroin matrix the amorphous nature of the silk fibroin decreases with increasing nanoparticles concentration. The silk fibroin films possess good thermal stability with the presence of AgNPs.

Synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle composite with poly(p-Br-phenylsilane).

PubMed

Kim, Myoung-Hee; Lee, Jun; Mo, Soo-Yong; Woo, Hee-Gweon; Yang, Kap Seung; Kim, Bo-Hye; Lee, Byeong-Gweon; Sohn, Honglae

2012-05-01

The one-pot synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle-poly(p-Br-phenylsilane) composites have been carried out. The conversion of silver(+1) salt to stable silver(0) nanoparticles is promoted by poly(p-Br-phenylsilane), Br-PPS possessing both possible reactive Si-H bonds in the polymer backbone and C-Br bonds in the substituents. The composites were characterized using XRD, TEM, FE-SEM, and solid-state UV-vis analytical techniques. TEM and FE-SEM data show the formation of the composites where large number of silver nanoparticles (less than 30 nm of size) are well dispersed throughout the Br-PPS matrix. XRD patterns are consistent with that for fcc-typed silver. The elemental analysis for Br atom and the polymer solubility confirm that the cleavage of C-Br bond and the Si-Br dative bonding were not occurred appreciably at ambient temperature. Nonetheless, TGA data suggest that some sort of cross-linking was occurred at high temperature. The size and processability of such nanoparticles depend on the ratio of metal to Br-PPS. In the absence of Br-PPS, most of the silver particles undergo macroscopic aggregation, which indicates that the polysilane is necessary for stabilizing the silver nanoparticles.

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

Silver Nanoparticle-Deposited Boron Nitride Nanosheets as Fillers for Polymeric Composites with High Thermal Conductivity.

PubMed

Wang, Fangfang; Zeng, Xiaoliang; Yao, Yimin; Sun, Rong; Xu, Jianbin; Wong, Ching-Ping

2016-01-19

Polymer composites with high thermal conductivity have recently attracted much attention, along with the rapid development of the electronic devices toward higher speed and performance. However, a common method to enhance polymer thermal conductivity through an addition of high thermally conductive fillers usually cannot provide an expected value, especially for composites requiring electrical insulation. Here, we show that polymeric composites with silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets as fillers could effectively enhance the thermal conductivity of polymer, thanks to the bridging connections of silver nanoparticles among boron nitride nanosheets. The thermal conductivity of the composite is significantly increased from 1.63 W/m-K for the composite filled with the silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets to 3.06 W/m-K at the boron nitride nanosheets loading of 25.1 vol %. In addition, the electrically insulating properties of the composite are well preserved. Fitting the measured thermal conductivity of epoxy composite with one physical model indicates that the composite with silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets outperforms the one with boron nitride nanosheets, owning to the lower thermal contact resistance among boron nitride nanosheets' interfaces. The finding sheds new light on enhancement of thermal conductivity of the polymeric composites which concurrently require the electrical insulation.

Silver Nanoparticle-Deposited Boron Nitride Nanosheets as Fillers for Polymeric Composites with High Thermal Conductivity

PubMed Central

Wang, Fangfang; Zeng, Xiaoliang; Yao, Yimin; Sun, Rong; Xu, Jianbin; Wong, Ching-Ping

2016-01-01

Polymer composites with high thermal conductivity have recently attracted much attention, along with the rapid development of the electronic devices toward higher speed and performance. However, a common method to enhance polymer thermal conductivity through an addition of high thermally conductive fillers usually cannot provide an expected value, especially for composites requiring electrical insulation. Here, we show that polymeric composites with silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets as fillers could effectively enhance the thermal conductivity of polymer, thanks to the bridging connections of silver nanoparticles among boron nitride nanosheets. The thermal conductivity of the composite is significantly increased from 1.63 W/m-K for the composite filled with the silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets to 3.06 W/m-K at the boron nitride nanosheets loading of 25.1 vol %. In addition, the electrically insulating properties of the composite are well preserved. Fitting the measured thermal conductivity of epoxy composite with one physical model indicates that the composite with silver nanoparticle-deposited boron nitride nanosheets outperforms the one with boron nitride nanosheets, owning to the lower thermal contact resistance among boron nitride nanosheets’ interfaces. The finding sheds new light on enhancement of thermal conductivity of the polymeric composites which concurrently require the electrical insulation. PMID:26783258

Development of SiC Nanoparticles and Second Phases Synergistically Reinforced Mg-Based Composites Processed by Multi-Pass Forging with Varying Temperatures

PubMed Central

Nie, Kaibo; Guo, Yachao; Deng, Kunkun; Wang, Xiaojun; Wu, Kun

2018-01-01

In this study, SiC nanoparticles were added into matrix alloy through a combination of semisolid stirring and ultrasonic vibration while dynamic precipitation of second phases was obtained through multi-pass forging with varying temperatures. During single-pass forging of the present composite, as the deformation temperature increased, the extent of recrystallization increased, and grains were refined due to the inhibition effect of the increasing amount of dispersed SiC nanoparticles. A small amount of twins within the SiC nanoparticle dense zone could be found while the precipitated phases of Mg17Al12 in long strips and deformation bands with high density dislocations were formed in the particle sparse zone after single-pass forging at 350 °C. This indicated that the particle sparse zone was mainly deformed by dislocation slip while the nanoparticle dense zone may have been deformed by twinning. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the composites were gradually enhanced through increasing the single-pass forging temperature from 300 °C to 400 °C, which demonstrated that initial high forging temperature contributed to the improvement of the mechanical properties. During multi-pass forging with varying temperatures, the grain size of the composite was gradually decreased while the grain size distribution tended to be uniform with reducing the deformation temperature and extending the forging passes. In addition, the amount of precipitated second phases was significantly increased compared with that after multi-pass forging under a constant temperature. The improvement in the yield strength of the developed composite was related to grain refinement strengthening and Orowan strengthening resulting from synergistical effect of the externally applied SiC nanoparticles and internally precipitated second phases. PMID:29342883

Synthesis of magnetic composite nanoparticles enveloped in copolymers specified for scale inhibition application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Do, Bao Phuong Huu; Dung Nguyen, Ba; Duy Nguyen, Hoang; Nguyen, Phuong Tung

2013-12-01

We report the synthesis of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles encapsulated in maleic acid-2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonate based polymer. This composite nanoparticle is specified for the high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) oilfield scale inhibition application. The process includes a facile-ultrasound-supported addition reaction to obtain iron oxide nanoparticles with surface coated by oleic acid. Then via inverse microemulsion polymerization with selected monomers, the specifically designed copolymers have been formatted in nanoscale. The structure and morphology of obtained materials were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), x-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the thermal stability. The effectiveness of synthesized compounds as a carbonate scale inhibitor was investigated by testing method NACE standard TM 03-074-95 at aging temperature of 70, 90 and 120 °C. The magnetic nanocomposite particles can be easily collected and detected demonstrating their superior monitoring ability, which is absent in the case of conventional copolymer-based scale inhibitor.

SERS of semiconducting nanoparticles (TiO{sub 2} hybrid composites).

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

Musumeci, A.; Gosztola, D.; Schiller, T.

Raman scattering of molecules adsorbed on the surface of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles was investigated. We find strong enhancement of Raman scattering in hybrid composites that exhibit charge transfer absorption with TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles. An enhancement factor up to {approx}10{sup 3} was observed in the solutions containing TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles and biomolecules, including the important class of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and dopac (3,4-dihydroxy-phenylacetic acid). Only selected vibrations are enhanced, indicating molecular specificity due to distinct binding and orientation of the biomolecules coupled to the TiO{sub 2} surface. All enhanced modes are associated with the asymmetric vibrations of attached molecules thatmore » lower the symmetry of the charge transfer complex. The intensity and the energy of selected vibrations are dependent on the size and shape of nanoparticle support. Moreover, we show that localization of the charge in quantized nanoparticles (2 nm), demonstrated as the blue shift of particle absorption, diminishes SERS enhancement. Importantly, the smallest concentration of adsorbed molecules shows the largest Raman enhancements suggesting the possibility for high sensitivity of this system in the detection of biomolecules that form a charge transfer complex with metal oxide nanoparticles. The wavelength-dependent properties of a hybrid composite suggest a Raman resonant state. Adsorbed molecules that do not show a charge transfer complex show weak enhancements probably due to the dielectric cavity effect.« less

Process to Produce Iron Nanoparticle Lunar Dust Simulant Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, Ching-cheh; McNatt, Jeremiah

2010-01-01

A document discusses a method for producing nanophase iron lunar dust composite simulant by heating a mixture of carbon black and current lunar simulant types (mixed oxide including iron oxide) at a high temperature to reduce ionic iron into elemental iron. The product is a chemically modified lunar simulant that can be attracted by a magnet, and has a surface layer with an iron concentration that is increased during the reaction. The iron was found to be -iron and Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The simulant produced with this method contains iron nanoparticles not available previously, and they are stable in ambient air. These nanoparticles can be mass-produced simply.

Preparation and Properties of Electrospun Poly (Vinyl Pyrrolidone)/Cellulose Nanocrystal/Silver Nanoparticle Composite Fibers

PubMed Central

Huang, Siwei; Zhou, Ling; Li, Mei-Chun; Wu, Qinglin; Kojima, Yoichi; Zhou, Dingguo

2016-01-01

Poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP)/cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)/silver nanoparticle composite fibers were prepared via electrospinning using N,N′-dimethylformamide (DMF) as a solvent. Rheology, morphology, thermal properties, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial activity of nanocomposites were characterized as a function of material composition. The PVP/CNC/Ag electrospun suspensions exhibited higher conductivity and better rheological properties compared with those of the pure PVP solution. The average diameter of the PVP electrospun fibers decreased with the increase in the amount of CNCs and Ag nanoparticles. Thermal stability of electrospun composite fibers was decreased with the addition of CNCs. The CNCs help increase the composite tensile strength, while the elongation at break decreased. The composite fibers included Ag nanoparticles showed improved antimicrobial activity against both the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) and the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The enhanced strength and antimicrobial performances of PVP/CNC/Ag electrospun composite fibers make the mat material an attractive candidate for application in the biomedical field. PMID:28773644

Templated assembly of albumin-based nanoparticles for simultaneous gene silencing and magnetic resonance imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mertz, Damien; Affolter-Zbaraszczuk, Christine; Barthès, Julien; Cui, Jiwei; Caruso, Frank; Baumert, Thomas F.; Voegel, Jean-Claude; Ogier, Joelle; Meyer, Florent

2014-09-01

In this article, we address the design of innovative human serum albumin (HSA)-based nanoparticles loaded with silencing RNA and grafted with gadolinium complexes having average sizes ranging from ca. 50 to 150 nm according to the siRNA/HSA composition. The non-covalent siRNA/HSA assembly is formed on isobutyramide-modified mesoporous silica and the self-supported HSA-based nanoparticles are obtained following the silica template dissolution. These original protein particles provide simultaneous magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement and cellular in vitro gene silencing.In this article, we address the design of innovative human serum albumin (HSA)-based nanoparticles loaded with silencing RNA and grafted with gadolinium complexes having average sizes ranging from ca. 50 to 150 nm according to the siRNA/HSA composition. The non-covalent siRNA/HSA assembly is formed on isobutyramide-modified mesoporous silica and the self-supported HSA-based nanoparticles are obtained following the silica template dissolution. These original protein particles provide simultaneous magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement and cellular in vitro gene silencing. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental details and supporting Fig. S1-S4. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr02623c

Facile and controllable preparation of glucose biosensor based on Prussian blue nanoparticles hybrid composites.

PubMed

Li, Lei; Sheng, Qinglin; Zheng, Jianbin; Zhang, Hongfang

2008-11-01

A glucose biosensor based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) protected Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs)-polyaniline/multi-walled carbon nanotubes hybrid composites was fabricated by electrochemical method. A novel route for PBNPs preparation was applied in the fabrication with the help of PVP, and from scanning electron microscope images, Prussian blue particles on the electrode were found nanoscaled. The biosensor exhibits fast current response (<6 s) and a linearity in the range from 6.7x10(-6) to 1.9x10(-3) M with a high sensitivity of 6.28 microA mM(-1) and a detection limit of 6x10(-7) M (S/N=3) for the detection of glucose. The apparent activation energy of enzyme-catalyzed reaction and the apparent Michaelis-Menten constant are 23.9 kJ mol(-1) and 1.9 mM respectively, which suggests a high affinity of the enzyme-substrate. This easy and controllable construction method of glucose biosensor combines the characteristics of the components of the hybrid composites, which favors the fast and sensitive detection of glucose with improved analytical capabilities. In addition, the biosensor was examined in human serum samples for glucose determination with a recovery between 95.0 and 104.5%.

The Interaction between Zein and Lecithin in Ethanol-Water Solution and Characterization of Zein-Lecithin Composite Colloidal Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Dai, Lei; Sun, Cuixia; Wang, Di; Gao, Yanxiang

2016-01-01

Lecithin, a naturally small molecular surfactant, which is widely used in the food industry, can delay aging, enhance memory, prevent and treat diabetes. The interaction between zein and soy lecithin with different mass ratios (20:1, 10:1, 5:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1 and 1:2) in ethanol-water solution and characterisation of zein and lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles prepared by antisolvent co-precipitation method were investigated. The mean size of zein-lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles was firstly increased with the rise of lecithin concentration and then siginificantly decreased. The nanoparticles at the zein to lecithin mass ratio of 5:1 had the largest particle size (263 nm), indicating that zein and lecithin formed composite colloidal nanoparticles, which might aggregate due to the enhanced interaction at a higher proportion of lecithin. Continuing to increase lecithin concentration, the zein-lecithin nanoparticles possibly formed a reverse micelle-like or a vesicle-like structure with zein in the core, which prevented the formation of nanoparticle aggregates and decreased the size of composite nanoparticles. The presence of lecithin significantly reduced the ζ-potential of zein-lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles. The interaction between zein and lecithin enhanced the intensity of the fluorescence emission of zein in ethanol-water solution. The secondary structure of zein was also changed by the addition of lecithin. Differential scanning calorimetry thermograms revealed that the thermal stability of zein-lecithin nanoparticles was enhanced with the rise of lecithin level. The composite nanoparticles were relatively stable to elevated ionic strengths. Possible interaction mechanism between zein and lecithin was proposed. These findings would help further understand the theory of the interaction between the alcohol soluble protein and the natural small molecular surfactant. The composite colloidal nanoparticles formed in this study can

Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: The Importance of Size, Shape, Chemical Composition, and Valence State in Determining Toxicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunnick, Katherine

Nanoparticles, which are defined as a structure with at least one dimension between 1 and 100 nm, have the potential to be used in a variety of consumer products due to their improved functionality compared to similar particles of larger size. Their small size is associated with increased strength, improved catalytic properties, and increased reactivity; however, their size is also associated with increased toxicity in vitro and in vivo. Numerous toxicological studies have been conducted to determine the properties of nanomaterials that increase their toxicity in order to manufacture new nanomaterials with decreased toxicity. Data indicates that size, shape, chemical composition, and valence state of nanomaterials can dramatically alter their toxicity profile. Therefore, the purpose of this dissertation was to determine how altering the shape, size, and chemical composition of various metal oxide nanoparticles would affect their toxicity. Metal oxides are used in variety of consumer products, from spray-sun screens, to food coloring agents; thus, understanding the toxicity of metal oxides and determining which aspects affect their toxicity may provide safe alternatives nanomaterials for continued use in manufacturing. Tungstate nanoparticles toxicity was assessed in an in vitro model using RAW 264.7 cells. The size, shape, and chemical composition of these nanomaterials were altered and the effect on reactive oxygen species and general cytotoxicity was determined using a variety of techniques. Results demonstrate that shape was important in reactive oxygen species production as wires were able to induce significant reactive oxygen species compared to spheres. Shape, size, and chemical composition did not have much effect on the overall toxicity of these nanoparticles in RAW 264.7 cells over a 72 hour time course, implicating that the base material of the nanoparticles was not toxic in these cells. To further assess how chemical composition can affect toxicity

Detection of Peptide-based nanoparticles in blood plasma by ELISA.

PubMed

Bode, Gerard H; Pickl, Karin E; Sanchez-Purrà, Maria; Albaiges, Berta; Borrós, Salvador; Pötgens, Andy J G; Schmitz, Christoph; Sinner, Frank M; Losen, Mario; Steinbusch, Harry W M; Frank, Hans-Georg; Martinez-Martinez, Pilar

2015-01-01

The aim of the current study was to develop a method to detect peptide-linked nanoparticles in blood plasma. A convenient enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the detection of peptides functionalized with biotin and fluorescein groups. As a proof of principle, polymerized pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles linked to biotin-carboxyfluorescein labeled peptides were intravenously injected in Wistar rats. Serial blood plasma samples were analyzed by ELISA and by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. The ELISA based method for the detection of FITC labeled peptides had a detection limit of 1 ng/mL. We were able to accurately measure peptides bound to pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles in blood plasma of rats, and similar results were obtained by LC/MS. We detected FITC-labeled peptides on pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles after injection in vivo. This method can be extended to detect nanoparticles with different chemical compositions.

Structural characterization, formation mechanism and stability of curcumin in zein-lecithin composite nanoparticles fabricated by antisolvent co-precipitation.

PubMed

Dai, Lei; Sun, Cuixia; Li, Ruirui; Mao, Like; Liu, Fuguo; Gao, Yanxiang

2017-12-15

Curcumin (Cur) exhibits a range of bioactive properties, but its application is restrained due to its poor water solubility and sensitivity to environmental stresses. In this study, zein-lecithin composite nanoparticles were fabricated by antisolvent co-precipitation technique for delivery of Cur. The result showed that the encapsulation efficiency of Cur was significantly enhanced from 42.03% in zein nanoparticles to 99.83% in zein-lecithin composite nanoparticles. The Cur entrapped in the nanoparticles was in an amorphous state confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed that hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction and hydrophobic attraction were the main interactions among zein, lecithin, and Cur. Compared with single zein and lecithin nanoparticles, zein-lecithin composite nanoparticles significantly improved the stability of Cur against thermal treatment, UV irradiation and high ionic strength. Therefore, zein-lecithin composite nanoparticles could be a potential delivery system for water-insoluble bioactive compounds with enhanced encapsulation efficiency and chemical stability. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A sensitive determination of terbutaline in pharmaceuticals and urine samples using a composite electrode based on zirconium oxide nanoparticles.

PubMed

Baytak, Aysegul Kutluay; Teker, Tugce; Duzmen, Sehriban; Aslanoglu, Mehmet

2016-10-01

An accurate and precise determination of terbutaline has been carried out using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with a composite of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and nanoparticles of zirconium oxide (ZrO2NPs). Energy dispersive X-ray and scanning electron microscopic techniques were utilized for the characterization of the composite layer. Terbutaline exhibited a broad oxidation peak at 770mV on a GCE. However, MWCNTs/GCE presented an electrocatalytic effect toward the oxidation of terbutaline with a better anodic peak at 660mV. Furthermore, the electrochemical behavior of terbutaline has greatly been improved at a GCE modified with a composite of MWCNTs and nanoparticles of ZrO2. The ZrO2NPs/MWCNTs/GCE exhibited a sharp anodic wave at 645mV with a large enhancement of the current response for terbutaline. Square wave voltammetry (SWV) was performed for the determination of terbutaline at ZrO2NPs/MWCNTs/GCE. A linear plot was obtained for the current responses of terbutaline against concentrations in the range of 10-160nM yielding a detection limit of 2.25nM (based on 3Sb/m). Improved voltammetric behavior, long-time stability and good reproducibility were obtained for terbutaline at the proposed electrode. A mean recovery of 101.2% with an RSD% of 1.9 was obtained for the analysis of the drug formulation. The accurate and precise quantification of terbutaline makes the ZrO2NPs/MWCNTs/GCE system of great interest for monitoring its therapeutic use. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of Sb₂S₃ Hybrid Solar Cells Based on Embedded Photoelectrodes of Ag Nanowires-Au Nanoparticles Composite.

PubMed

Kim, Kang-Pil; Hwang, Dae-Kue; Woo, Sung-Ho; Kim, Dae-Hwan

2018-09-01

The Ag nanowire (NW) + Au nanoparticle (NP)-embedded TiO2 photoelectrodes were adopted for conventional planar TiO2-based Sb2S3 hybrid solar cells to improve the cell efficiency. Compared to conventional planar TiO2-based Sb2S3 hybrid solar cells, the Ag NW + Au NP/TiO2-based Sb2S3 hybrid solar cells exhibited an improvement of approximately 40% in the cell efficiency due to the significant increase in both Jsc and Voc. These enhanced Jsc and Voc were attributed to the increased surface area, charge-collection efficiency, and light absorption by embedding the Ag NWs + Au NPs composite. The Ag NW + Au NP/TiO2-based Sb2S3 hybrid solar cells showed the highest efficiency of 2.17%, demonstrating that the Ag NW + Au NP-embedded TiO2 photoelectrode was a suitable photoelectrode structure to improve the power conversion efficiency in the Sb2S3 hybrid solar cells.

Selective Catalysis in Nanoparticle Metal-Organic Framework Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephenson, Casey Justin

The design of highly selective catalysts are becoming increasingly important, especially as chemical and pharmaceutical industries seek to improve atom economy and minimize energy intensive separations that are often required to separate side products from the desired product. Enzymes are among the most selective of all catalysts, generally operating through molecular recognition whereby an active site analogous to a lock and the substrate is analogous to a key. The assembly of a porous, crystalline material around a catalytically active metal particle could serve as an artificial enzyme. In this vein, we first synthesized the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) coated nanoparticles of interest and then encapsulated them within zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 or ZIF-8. 2.8 nm Pt-PVP nanoparticles, which were encapsulated within ZIF-8 to form Pt ZIF-8 composite. Pt ZIF-8 was inactive for the hydrogenation of cyclic olefins such as cis-cyclooctene and cis-cyclohexene while the composite proved to be a highly selective catalyst for the hydrogenation of terminal olefins, hydrogenating trans-1,3-hexadiene to 3-hexene in 95% selectivity after 24 hours under 1 bar H2. We extended our encapsulation method to sub-2 nm Au nanoparticles to form Au ZIF-8. Au ZIF-8 served as a highly chemoselective catalyst for the hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde an alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehyde, to crotyl alcohol an alpha,beta-unsaturated alcohol, in 90-95% selectivity. In order to investigate nanoparticle size effects on selectivity, 6-10 nm Au nanoparticles were encapsulated within ZIF-8 to form Au6 ZIF-8. Control catalysts with nanoparticles supported on the surface of ZIF-8 were synthesized as well, Au/ZIF-8 and Au6/ZIF-8. Au6 ZIF-8 hydrogenated crotonaldehyde in 85% selectivity towards the unsaturated alcohol. Catalysts with nanoparticles supported on the exterior of ZIF-8 were far less selective towards the unsaturated alcohol. Post-catalysis transmission electron microscopy analysis of Au ZIF

Synthesis and photocatalytic CO2 reduction performance of Cu2O/Coal-based carbon nanoparticle composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dedong, Zhang; Maimaiti, Halidan; Awati, Abuduheiremu; Yisilamu, Gunisakezi; Fengchang, Sun; Ming, Wei

2018-05-01

The photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into hydrocarbons provides a promising approach to overcome the challenges of environmental crisis and energy shortage. Here we fabricated a cuprous oxide (Cu2O) based composite photocatalyst consisting of Cu2O/carbon nanoparticles (CNPs). To prepare the CNPs, coal samples from Wucaiwan, Xinjiang, China, were first treated with HNO3, followed by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation to strip nanocrystalline carbon from coal. After linking with oxygen-containing group such as hydroxyl, coal-based CNPs with sp2 carbon structure and multilayer graphene lattice structure were synthesized. Subsequently, the CNPs were loaded onto the surface of Cu2O nanoparticles prepared by in-situ reduction of copper chloride (CuCl2·2H2O). The physical properties and chemical structure of the Cu2O/CNPs as well as photocatalytic activity of CO2/H2O reduction into CH3OH were measured. The results demonstrate that the Cu2O/CNPs are composed of spherical particles with diameter of 50 nm and mesoporous structure, which are suitable for CO2 adsorption. Under illumination of visible light, electron-hole pairs are generated in Cu2O. Thanks to the CNPs, the fast recombination of electron-hole pairs is suppressed. The energy gradient formed on the surface of Cu2O/CNPs facilitates the efficient separation of electron-hole pairs for CO2 reduction and H2O oxidation, leading to enhanced photocatalytic activity.

Electrical bistability in conductive hybrid composites of doped polyaniline nanofibers-gold nanoparticles capped with dodecane thiol.

PubMed

Borriello, A; Agoretti, P; Cassinese, A; D'Angelo, P; Mohanraj, G T; Sanguigno, L

2009-11-01

A novel electrical bistable hybrid nanocomposite based on doped Polyaniline nanofibers with 1-Dodecanethiol-protected Gold nanoparticle (PAni.AuDT), 3-4 nm in size, as the conductive component and polystyrene as polymer matrix was prepared. The structural morphology of the composite and the dispersion of nanoparticles inside it were evaluated using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The thermal stability and the ratio Polyaniline/Gold nanoparticles in the composite were determined by using thermogravimetric analysis. The electrical bistability of the PAni.AuDT-PS composite, the influence of the dispersion of the PAni.AuDT conductive network and the basic operation mechanism, have been assessed by measuring the electrical response of planar device architectures, also as a function of the environmental temperature (in the range 200 K < T < 360 K). The basic operation mechanism of the hybrid compound has been then correlated to the combined action of the thermally-induced scattering of charge carriers and the thermal contraction of the hosting polymeric matrix. Moreover, the right compromise between these two effects in terms of the most efficient bistability has been studied, founding the concentration of the conductive component which optimizes the device on-off ratio (I(on)/ I(off)).

Polymer-encapsulated metal nanoparticles: optical, structural, micro-analytical and hydrogenation studies of a composite material.

PubMed

Scalzullo, Stefania; Mondal, Kartick; Witcomb, Mike; Deshmukh, Amit; Scurrell, Mike; Mallick, Kaushik

2008-02-20

A single-step synthesis route is described for the preparation of a metal-polymer composite in which palladium acetate and meta-amino benzoic acid were used as the precursors for palladium nanoparticles and poly(meta-amino benzoic acid) (PABA). The palladium nanoparticles were found to be uniformly dispersed and highly stabilized throughout the macromolecule matrix. The resultant composite material was characterized by means of different techniques, such as IR and Raman spectroscopy, which provided information regarding the chemical structure of the polymer, whereas electron microscopy images yielded information regarding the morphology of the composite material and the distribution of the metal particles in the composite material. The composite material was used as a catalyst for the ethylene hydrogenation reaction and showed catalytic activity at higher temperatures. TEM studies confirmed the changed environment of the nanoparticles at these temperatures.

Sonochemically synthesized iron-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles: Influence of precursor composition on characteristics

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

Roy, Anirban; Maitra, Saikat; Ghosh, Sobhan

Highlights: • Sonochemical synthesis of iron-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles. • Green synthesis without alkali at room temperature. • Characterization by UV–vis spectroscopy, FESEM, XRD and EDX. • Influence of precursor composition on characteristics. • Composition and characteristics are correlated. - Abstract: Iron-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized sonochemically from aqueous acetyl acetonate precursors of different proportions. Synthesized nanoparticles were characterized with UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and microscopy. Influences of precursor mixture on the characteristics have been examined and modeled. Linear correlations have been proposed between dopant dosing, extent of doping and band gap energy. Experimental data corroborated with themore » proposed models.« less

Solid-state voltammetry-based electrochemical immunosensor for Escherichia coli using graphene oxide-Ag nanoparticle composites as labels.

PubMed

Jiang, Xiaochun; Chen, Kun; Wang, Jing; Shao, Kang; Fu, Tao; Shao, Feng; Lu, Donglian; Liang, Jiangong; Foda, M Frahat; Han, Heyou

2013-06-21

A new electrochemical immunosensor based on solid-state voltammetry was fabricated for the detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) by using graphene oxide-Ag nanoparticle composites (P-GO-Ag) as labels. To construct the platform, Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) were first self-assembled on an Au electrode surface through cysteamine and served as an effective matrix for antibody (Ab) attachment. Under a sandwich-type immunoassay format, the analyte and the probe (P-GO-Ag-Ab) were successively captured onto the immunosensor. Finally, the bonded AgNPs were detected through a solid-state redox process in 0.2 M of KCl solution. Combining the advantages of the high-loading capability of graphene oxide with promoted electron-transfer rate of AuNPs, this immunosensor produced a 26.92-fold signal enhancement compared with the unamplified protocol. Under the optimal conditions, the immunosensor exhibited a wide linear dependence on the logarithm of the concentration of E. coli ranging from 50 to 1.0 × 10(6) cfu mL(-1) with a detection limit of 10 cfu mL(-1). Moreover, as a practical application, the proposed immunosensor was used to monitor E. coli in lake water with satisfactory results.

Thermal Conductivity on the Nanofluid of Graphene and Silver Nanoparticles Composite Material.

PubMed

Myekhlai, Munkhshur; Lee, Taejin; Baatar, Battsengel; Chung, Hanshik; Jeong, Hyomin

2016-02-01

The composite material consisted of graphene (GN) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been essential topic in science and industry due to its unique thermal, electrical and antibacterial proper- ties. However, there are scarcity studies based on their thermal properties of nanofluids. Therefore, GN-AgNPs composite material was synthesized using facile and environment friendly method and further nanofluids were prepared by ultrasonication in this study. The morphological and structural investigations were carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) as well as ultra violet (UV)-visible spectroscopy. Furthermore, thermal conductivity measurements were performed for as-prepared nanofluids. As a result of thermal conductivity study, GN-AgNPs composite material was considerably enhanced the thermal conductivity of base fluid (water) by to 6.59% for the nanofluid (0.2 wt% GN and 0.4 wt% AgNPs).

Colloidal silver nanoparticles/rhamnolipid (SNPRL) composite as novel chemotactic antibacterial agent.

PubMed

Bharali, P; Saikia, J P; Paul, S; Konwar, B K

2013-10-01

The antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles and rhamnolipid are well known individually. In the present research, antibacterial and chemotactic activity due to colloidal silver nanoparticles (SNP), rhamnolipid (RL) and silver nanoparticles/rhamnolipid composite (SNPRL) were evaluated using Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC3160), Escherichia coli (MTCC40), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC8163) and Bacillus subtilis (MTCC441) as test strains. Further, the SNPRL nanoparticles were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The observation clearly indicates that SNPRL shows prominent antibacterial and chemotactic activity in comparison to all of its individual precursor components. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sulfate-based anionic diblock copolymer nanoparticles for efficient occlusion within zinc oxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ning, Y.; Fielding, L. A.; Andrews, T. S.; Growney, D. J.; Armes, S. P.

2015-04-01

Occlusion of copolymer particles within inorganic crystalline hosts not only provides a model for understanding the crystallisation process, but also may offer a direct route for the preparation of novel nanocomposite materials with emergent properties. In the present paper, a series of new well-defined anionic diblock copolymer nanoparticles are synthesised by polymerisation-induced self-assembly (PISA) via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) aqueous emulsion polymerisation and then evaluated as crystal habit modifiers for the in situ formation of ZnO in aqueous solution. Systematic studies indicate that both the chemical nature (i.e. whether sulfate-based or carboxylate-based) and the mean degree of polymerisation (DP) of the anionic stabiliser block play vital roles in determining the crystal morphology. In particular, sulfate-functionalised nanoparticles are efficiently incorporated within the ZnO crystals whereas carboxylate-functionalised nanoparticles are excluded, thus anionic character is a necessary but not sufficient condition for successful occlusion. Moreover, the extent of nanoparticle occlusion within the ZnO phase can be as high as 23% by mass depending on the sulfate-based nanoparticle concentration. The optical properties, chemical composition and crystal structure of the resulting nanocomposite crystals are evaluated and an occlusion mechanism is proposed based on the observed evolution of the ZnO morphology in the presence of sulfate-based anionic nanoparticles. Finally, controlled deposition of a 5 nm gold sol onto porous ZnO particles (produced after calcination of the organic nanoparticles) significantly enhances the rate of photocatalytic decomposition of a model rhodamine B dye on exposure to a relatively weak UV source.Occlusion of copolymer particles within inorganic crystalline hosts not only provides a model for understanding the crystallisation process, but also may offer a direct route for the preparation of novel

The Interaction between Zein and Lecithin in Ethanol-Water Solution and Characterization of Zein–Lecithin Composite Colloidal Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Dai, Lei; Sun, Cuixia; Wang, Di; Gao, Yanxiang

2016-01-01

Lecithin, a naturally small molecular surfactant, which is widely used in the food industry, can delay aging, enhance memory, prevent and treat diabetes. The interaction between zein and soy lecithin with different mass ratios (20:1, 10:1, 5:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1 and 1:2) in ethanol-water solution and characterisation of zein and lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles prepared by antisolvent co-precipitation method were investigated. The mean size of zein-lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles was firstly increased with the rise of lecithin concentration and then siginificantly decreased. The nanoparticles at the zein to lecithin mass ratio of 5:1 had the largest particle size (263 nm), indicating that zein and lecithin formed composite colloidal nanoparticles, which might aggregate due to the enhanced interaction at a higher proportion of lecithin. Continuing to increase lecithin concentration, the zein-lecithin nanoparticles possibly formed a reverse micelle-like or a vesicle-like structure with zein in the core, which prevented the formation of nanoparticle aggregates and decreased the size of composite nanoparticles. The presence of lecithin significantly reduced the ζ-potential of zein-lecithin composite colloidal nanoparticles. The interaction between zein and lecithin enhanced the intensity of the fluorescence emission of zein in ethanol-water solution. The secondary structure of zein was also changed by the addition of lecithin. Differential scanning calorimetry thermograms revealed that the thermal stability of zein-lecithin nanoparticles was enhanced with the rise of lecithin level. The composite nanoparticles were relatively stable to elevated ionic strengths. Possible interaction mechanism between zein and lecithin was proposed. These findings would help further understand the theory of the interaction between the alcohol soluble protein and the natural small molecular surfactant. The composite colloidal nanoparticles formed in this study can

Detection of Peptide-Based Nanoparticles in Blood Plasma by ELISA

PubMed Central

Bode, Gerard H.; Pickl, Karin E.; Sanchez-Purrà, Maria; Albaiges, Berta; Borrós, Salvador; Pötgens, Andy J. G.; Schmitz, Christoph; Sinner, Frank M.; Losen, Mario; Steinbusch, Harry W. M.; Frank, Hans-Georg; Martinez-Martinez, Pilar

2015-01-01

Aims The aim of the current study was to develop a method to detect peptide-linked nanoparticles in blood plasma. Materials & Methods A convenient enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the detection of peptides functionalized with biotin and fluorescein groups. As a proof of principle, polymerized pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles linked to biotin-carboxyfluorescein labeled peptides were intravenously injected in Wistar rats. Serial blood plasma samples were analyzed by ELISA and by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) technology. Results The ELISA based method for the detection of FITC labeled peptides had a detection limit of 1 ng/mL. We were able to accurately measure peptides bound to pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles in blood plasma of rats, and similar results were obtained by LC/MS. Conclusions We detected FITC-labeled peptides on pentafluorophenyl methacrylate nanoparticles after injection in vivo. This method can be extended to detect nanoparticles with different chemical compositions. PMID:25996618

Antimicrobial function of Nd3+-doped anatase titania-coated nickel ferrite composite nanoparticles: a biomaterial system.

PubMed

Rana, S; Rawat, J; Sorensson, M M; Misra, R D K

2006-07-01

The present study describes and makes a relative comparison of the antimicrobial function of undoped and neodymium-doped titania coated-nickel ferrite composite nanoparticles processed by uniquely combining the reverse micelle and chemical hydrolysis approaches. This methodology facilitates the formation of undoped and doped photocatalytic titania shells and a magnetic ferrite core. The ferrite core is needed to help in the removal of particles from the sprayed surface using a small magnetic field. Doping of the titania shell with neodymium significantly enhances the photocatalytic and anti-microbial function of the core-shell composite nanoparticles without influencing the magnetic characteristics of the nickel ferrite core. The increased performance is believed to be related to the inhibition of electron-hole recombination and a decrease in the band gap energy of titania. The retention of magnetic strength ensures controlled movement of the composite nanoparticles by the magnetic field, facilitating their application as removable anti-microbial photocatalyst nanoparticles. The consistent behavior of the composite nanoparticles points to the viability of the synthesis process adopted.

Electromagnetic properties of Fe-Co granular composite materials containing acicular nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kasagi, Teruhiro; Massango, Herieta; Tsutaoka, Takanori; Yamamoto, Shinichiro; Hatakeyama, Kenichi

2018-03-01

Electromagnetic properties of acicular (needle-like) Fe76Co24 nanoparticle composite materials have been studied in microwave frequency range up to 20 GHz. The Fe76Co24 particles are commercially available acicular Fe76Co24 nanoparticles with an approximate length and diameter of 100 and 25 nm, respectively. The Fe76Co24 nanocomposites were prepared by embedding the Fe76Co24 nanoparticle in an appropriate resin. Since the metallic Fe76Co24 nanoparticles have an oxidized surface, even high particle content composites at 78 vol.%, which is in the percolated state, does not show metallic conduction; a low frequency plasmonic state with the negative permittivity spectrum was not observed. Meanwhile, the negative permeability spectrum caused by the magnetic resonance in Fe76Co24 alloy was obtained in the high particle content composites. From the measurement of the complex permeability spectra under the external dc magnetic field, it was clarified that the gyromagnetic spin rotation mainly contributes to the permeability spectrum of nanocomposites due to extremely small quantity of domain walls in the acicular nanoparticles. This result suggests that the negative permeability spectrum was caused by the gyromagnetic spin resonance. By the comparison of the complex permeability spectrum between the acicular Fe76Co24 nanocomposite and the spherical Fe50Co50 microcomposite, the gyromagnetic spin resonance frequency of the acicular nanocomposite tends to locate higher than that of the spherical microcomposite owing to the demagnetizing field effect. Therefore, it can be concluded that the negative permeability frequency band of the acicular nanocomposite is higher than that of the spherical microcomposite at the same particle content.

Investigation of nanoparticle agglomeration on the effective thermal conductivity of a composite material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Webb, Anthony J.

Phase Change Materials (PCMs), like paraffin wax, can be used for passive thermal management of portable electronics if their overall bulk thermal conductivity is increased through the addition of highly conducting nanoparticles. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is used to investigate the influence of nanoparticle agglomeration on the overall conductive thermal transport in a nanoenhanced composite by dictating the thermal conductivity of individual elements according to their local inclusion volume fraction and characteristics inside a low conducting PCM matrix. The inclusion density distribution is dictated by an agglomeration factor, and the effective thermal conductivity of each element is calculated from the nanoparticle volume fraction using a method similar to the Representative Volume Element (RVE) methodology. FEA studies are performed for 2-D and 3-D models. In the 2-D model, the grain boundary is fixed at x = 0 for simplicity. For the 3-D model, the grain boundary geometry is randomly varied. A negligible 2-D effect on thermal transport in the 2-D model is seen, so a 1-D thermal resistance network is created for comparison, and the results agree within 4%.The influence of the agglomeration factor and contact Biot number on the overall bulk thermal conductivity is determined by applying Fourier's Law on the entire simulated composite. For the 2-D and 3-D models with a contact Biot number above 1, the overall bulk thermal conductivity decreases prior to the percolation threshold being met and then increases with increasing agglomeration. Finally, a MatlabRTM based image processing tool is created to estimate the agglomeration factor based on an experimental image of a nanoparticle distribution, with a calculated approximate agglomeration value of Beta*L = 5 which results in a bulk thermal conductivity of 0.278 W/(m-K).

Nonlinear optical properties of metal alkanoate composites with hybrid core/shell nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudenko, V.; Tolochko, A.; Zhulai, D.; Klimusheva, G.; Mirnaya, T.; Yaremchuk, G.; Asaula, V.

2018-02-01

New composites with hybrid CdSe/ZnS and Au/CdSe nanoparticles (NPs) were chemically synthesized in the thermotropic liquid crystalline phase (smectic A) of cadmium octanoate. Features of structure and nonlinear optical properties of glassy cadmium octanoate composites with hybrid core/shell NPs were studied using small-angle X-ray scattering method and Z-scan technique. Experimental optical setup (Z-scan) is based on a Nd: YAG laser, generating 9 ns pulses with a repetition rate of 0,5 Hz on a wavelength of 532 nm. The effects of the influence of hybrid NPs on the nonlinear optical properties of nanocomposites are considered in this study.

Impact of thermal oxidation on chemical composition and magnetic properties of iron nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krajewski, Marcin; Brzozka, Katarzyna; Tokarczyk, Mateusz; Kowalski, Grzegorz; Lewinska, Sabina; Slawska-Waniewska, Anna; Lin, Wei Syuan; Lin, Hong Ming

2018-07-01

The main objective of this work is to study the influence of thermal oxidation on the chemical composition and magnetic properties of iron nanoparticles which were manufactured in a simple chemical reduction of Fe3+ ions coming from iron salt with sodium borohydride. The annealing processing was performed in an argon atmosphere containing the traces of oxygen to avoid spontaneous oxidation of iron at temperatures ranging from 200 °C to 800 °C. The chemical composition and magnetic properties of as-prepared and thermally-treated nanoparticles were determined by means of X-ray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry. Due to the magnetic interactions, the investigated iron nanoparticles tended to create the dense aggregates which were difficult to split even at low temperatures. This caused that there was no empty space between them, which led to their partial sintering at elevated temperatures. These features hindered their precise morphological observations using the electron microscopy techniques. The obtained results show that the annealing process up to 800 °C resulted in a progressive change in the chemical composition of as-prepared iron nanoparticles which was associated with their oxidation. As a consequence, their magnetic properties also depended on the annealing temperature. For instance, considering the values of saturation magnetization, its highest value was recorded for the as-prepared nanoparticles at 1 T and it equals 149 emu/g, while the saturation point for nanoparticles treated at 600 °C and higher temperatures was not reached even at the magnetic field of about 5 T. Moreover, a significant enhancement of coercivity was observed for the iron nanoparticles annealed over 600 °C.

Cross-linked gelatin/nanoparticles composite coating on micro-arc oxidation film for corrosion and drug release

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Xinhua; Lu, Ping; Guo, Meiqing; Fang, Mingzhong

2010-02-01

A composite coating which could control drug release and biocorrosion of magnesium alloy stent materials WE42 was prepared. This composite coating was fabricated on the surface of the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) film of the magnesium alloy, WE42, by mixing different degrees of cross-linked gelatin with well-dispersed poly( DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles. The PLGA nanoparticles were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation/extraction technique. Nano ZS laser diffraction particle size analyzer detected that the size of the nanoparticles to be 150-300 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to analyze the morphology of the nanoparticles and the composite coating. Potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to evaluate the corrosion behavior of the composite coating. Drug release was determined by ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrophotometer. The corrosion resistance of the composite coating was improved by preventing the corrosive ions from diffusing to the MAO films. The drug release rate of paclitaxel (PTX) exhibited a nearly linear sustained-release profile with no significant burst releases.

A novel technology for the detection, enrichment, and separation of trace amounts of target DNA based on amino-modified fluorescent magnetic composite nanoparticles.

PubMed

Wang, Guannan; Su, Xingguang

2010-06-01

A novel, highly sensitive technology for the detection, enrichment, and separation of trace amounts of target DNA was developed on the basis of amino-modified fluorescent magnetic composite nanoparticles (AFMN). In this study, the positively charged amino-modified composite nanoparticles conjugate with the negatively charged capture DNA through electrostatic binding. The optimal combination of AFMN and capture DNA was measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy. The highly sensitive detection of trace amounts of target DNA was achieved through enrichment by means of AFMN. The detection limit for target DNA is 0.4 pM, which could be further improved by using a more powerful magnet. Because of their different melting temperatures, single-base mismatched target DNA could be separated from perfectly complementary target DNA. In addition, the photoluminescence (PL) signals of perfectly complementary target DNA and single-base mismatched DNA as well as the hybridization kinetics of different concentrations of target DNA at different reaction times have also been studied. Most importantly, the detection, enrichment, and separation ability of AFMN was further verified with milk. Simple and satisfactory results were obtained, which show the great potential in the fields of mutation identification and clinical diagnosis.

Electrochemical synthesis of Sm2O3 nanoparticles: Application in conductive polymer composite films for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Mohammad Shiri, Hamid; Ehsani, Ali; Jalali Khales, Mina

2017-11-01

A novel electrosynthetic method was introduced to synthesize of Sm 2 O 3 nanoparticles and furthermore, for improving the electrochemical performance of conductive polymer, hybrid POAP/Sm 2 O 3 films have then been fabricated by POAP electropolymerization in the presence of Sm 2 O 3 nanoparticles as active electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors. The structure, morphology, chemical composition of Sm 2 O 3 nanoparticles was examined. Surface and electrochemical analyses have been used for characterization of Sm 2 O 3 and POAP/Sm 2 O 3 composite films. Different electrochemical methods including galvanostatic charge discharge experiments, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have been applied to study the system performance. The supercapacity behavior of the composite film was attributed to the (i) high active surface area of the composite, (ii) charge transfer along the polymer chain due to the conjugation form of the polymer and finally (iii) synergism effect between conductive polymer and Sm 2 O 3 nanoparticles. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tissue Reaction to a Novel Bone Substitute Material Fabricated With Biodegradable Polymer-Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticle Composite.

PubMed

Shimizu, Hideo; Jinno, Yohei; Ayukawa, Yasunori; Atsuta, Ikiru; Arahira, Takaaki; Todo, Mitsugu; Koyano, Kiyoshi

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel bone substitute material fabricated using a biodegradable polymer-calcium phosphate nanoparticle composite. Porous structured poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticle composite, which was fabricated using solid-liquid phase separation and freeze-drying methods, was grafted into bone defects created in rat calvarium or tibia. Rats were killed 4 weeks after surgery, and histological analyses were performed to evaluate new bone formation. Scanning electron microscopic observation showed the interconnecting pores within the material and the pore diameter was approximately 100 to 300 μm. HA nanoparticles were observed to be embedded into the PLLA beams. In the calvarial implantation model, abundant blood vessels and fibroblastic cells were observed penetrating into pores, and in the tibia model, newly formed bone was present around and within the composite. The PLLA-HA nanoparticle composite bone substitute developed in this study showed biocompatibility, elasticity, and operability and thus has potential as a novel bone substitute.

Soft Landing of Bare Nanoparticles with Controlled Size, Composition, and Morphology

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

Johnson, Grant E.; Colby, Robert J.; Laskin, Julia

2015-01-01

A kinetically-limited physical synthesis method based on magnetron sputtering and gas aggregation has been coupled with size-selection and ion soft landing to prepare bare metal nanoparticles on surfaces with controlled coverage, size, composition, and morphology. Employing atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), it is demonstrated that the size and coverage of bare nanoparticles soft landed onto flat glassy carbon and silicon as well as stepped graphite surfaces may be controlled through size-selection with a quadrupole mass filter and the length of deposition, respectively. The bare nanoparticles are observed with AFM to bind randomly to the flat glassymore » carbon surface when soft landed at relatively low coverage (1012 ions). In contrast, on stepped graphite surfaces at intermediate coverage (1013 ions) the soft landed nanoparticles are shown to bind preferentially along step edges forming extended linear chains of particles. At the highest coverage (5 x 1013 ions) examined in this study the nanoparticles are demonstrated with both AFM and SEM to form a continuous film on flat glassy carbon and silicon surfaces. On a graphite surface with defects, however, it is shown with SEM that the presence of localized surface imperfections results in agglomeration of nanoparticles onto these features and the formation of neighboring depletion zones that are devoid of particles. Employing high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy in the high angular annular dark field imaging mode (STEM-HAADF) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) it is demonstrated that the magnetron sputtering/gas aggregation synthesis technique produces single metal particles with controlled morphology as well as bimetallic alloy nanoparticles with clearly defined core-shell structure. Therefore, this kinetically-limited physical synthesis technique, when combined with ion soft landing, is a versatile complementary method for preparing a wide

Enhanced antibactericidal function of W4+-doped titania-coated nickel ferrite composite nanoparticles: a biomaterial system.

PubMed

Sunkara, B K; Misra, R D K

2008-03-01

The study demonstrates a distinct enhancement of antimicrobial activity of W4+-doped titania that is coated on nickel ferrite nanoparticles in comparison to undoped titania. The composite nanoparticles were synthesized by uniquely combining reverse micelle and chemical hydrolysis synthesis methods [Rana S, Rawat J, Misra RDK, Acta Biomater 2005;1:691]. The superior antimicrobial activity of W4+-doped titania is related to the inhibition of electron-hole recombination and decrease in the band gap energy of titania. The function of the ferrite is to facilitate the removal of nanoparticles from the sprayed surface using a small magnetic field. The coating of ferrite nanoparticles with titania retains superparamagnetic character and magnetic strength of composite nanoparticles signifying non-deterioration of magnetic properties and promoting their use as removable antimicrobial photocatalyst nanoparticles.

Composite nanofibers prepared from metallic iron nanoparticles and polyaniline: high performance for water treatment applications.

PubMed

Bhaumik, Madhumita; Choi, Hyoung J; McCrindle, Rob I; Maity, Arjun

2014-07-01

Presented here is a simple preparation of metallic iron nanoparticles, supported on polyaniline nanofibers at room temperature. The preparation is based on polymerization of interconnected nanofibers by rapid mixing of the aniline monomer with Fe(III) chloride as the oxidant, followed by reductive deposition of Fe(0) nanoparticles, using the polymerization by-products as the Fe precursor. The morphology and other physico-chemical properties of the resulting composite were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and vibrating-sample magnetometry. The composite fibers were 80-150 nm in diameter and exhibited the expected ferromagnetic behavior. The composite rapidly and efficiently removed As(V), Cr(VI), and also Congo red dye, from aqueous solutions suggesting their usefulness for removal of toxic materials from wastewater. The composite fibers have high capacity for toxin removal: 42.37 mg/g of As(V), 434.78 mg/g of Cr(VI), and 243.9 mg/g of Congo red. The fibers are easily recovered from fluids by exploiting their ferromagnetic properties. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Conductive polymer and Si nanoparticles composite secondary particles and structured current collectors for high loading lithium ion negative electrode application

DOEpatents

Liu, Gao

2017-07-11

Embodiments of the present invention disclose a composition of matter comprising a silicon (Si) nanoparticle coated with a conductive polymer. Another embodiment discloses a method for preparing a composition of matter comprising a plurality of silicon (Si) nanoparticles coated with a conductive polymer comprising providing Si nanoparticles, providing a conductive polymer, preparing a Si nanoparticle, conductive polymer, and solvent slurry, spraying the slurry into a liquid medium that is a non-solvent of the conductive polymer, and precipitating the silicon (Si) nanoparticles coated with the conductive polymer. Another embodiment discloses an anode comprising a current collector, and a composition of matter comprising a silicon (Si) nanoparticle coated with a conductive polymer.

Thermoelectric properties of conducting polyaniline/BaTiO3 nanoparticle composite films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anno, H.; Yamaguchi, K.; Nakabayashi, T.; Kurokawa, H.; Akagi, F.; Hojo, M.; Toshima, N.

2011-05-01

Conducting polyaniline (PANI)/BaTiO3 nanoparticle composite films with different molar ratio values R=1, 5, 10, and 100 have been prepared on a quartz substrate by casting the m-cresol solution of PANI, (±)-10-camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) and BaTiO3 nanoparticle with an average diameter of about 20 nm. The CSA-doped PANI/BaTiO3 composite films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-Vis transmission spectroscopy. The Seebeck coefficient and the electrical conductivity of the films with different R values, together with CSA-doped PANI films, were measured in the temperature range from room temperature to ~400 K. The relation between the Seebeck coefficient and the electrical conductivity in the composite films are discussed from a comparison of them with those of CSA-doped PANI films and other PANI composite films.

Magnetic and elastic anisotropy in magnetorheological elastomers using nickel-based nanoparticles and nanochains

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

Landa, Romina A.; Soledad Antonel, Paula; Ruiz, Mariano M.

2013-12-07

Nickel (Ni) based nanoparticles and nanochains were incorporated as fillers in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers and then these mixtures were thermally cured in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. In this way, macroscopically structured-anisotropic PDMS-Ni based magnetorheological composites were obtained with the formation of pseudo-chains-like structures (referred as needles) oriented in the direction of the applied magnetic field when curing. Nanoparticles were synthesized at room temperature, under air ambient atmosphere (open air, atmospheric pressure) and then calcined at 400 °C (in air atmosphere also). The size distribution was obtained by fitting Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) experiments with a polydisperse hardmore » spheres model and a Schulz-Zimm distribution, obtaining a size distribution centered at (10.0 ± 0.6) nm with polydispersivity given by σ = (8.0 ± 0.2) nm. The SAXS, X-ray powder diffraction, and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) experiments are consistent with single crystal nanoparticles of spherical shape (average particle diameter obtained by TEM: (12 ± 1) nm). Nickel-based nanochains (average diameter: 360 nm; average length: 3 μm, obtained by Scanning Electron Microscopy; aspect ratio = length/diameter ∼ 10) were obtained at 85 °C and ambient atmosphere (open air, atmospheric pressure). The magnetic properties of Ni-based nanoparticles and nanochains at room temperature are compared and discussed in terms of surface and size effects. Both Ni-based nanoparticles and nanochains were used as fillers for obtaining the PDMS structured magnetorheological composites, observing the presence of oriented needles. Magnetization curves, ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectra, and strain-stress curves of low filler's loading composites (2% w/w of fillers) were determined as functions of the relative orientation with respect to the needles. The results indicate that even at low loadings it is

Synthesis of Spherical Carbon Nitride-Based Polymer Composites by Continuous Aerosol-Photopolymerization with Efficient Light Harvesting.

PubMed

Poostforooshan, Jalal; Badiei, Alireza; Kolahdouz, Mohammadreza; Weber, Alfred P

2016-08-24

Here we report a novel, facile, and sustainable approach for the preparation of spherical submicrometer carbon nitride-based polymer composites by a continuous aerosol-photopolymerization process. In this regard, spherical mesoporous carbon nitride (SMCN) nanoparticles were initially prepared via a nanocasting approach using spray-drying synthesized spherical mesoporous silica (SMS) nanoparticles as hard templates. In addition to experimental characterization, the effect of porosity on the light absorption enhancement and consequently the generation rate of electron-hole pairs inside the SMCN was simulated using a three-dimensional finite difference time-domain (FDTD) method. To produce the carbon nitride-based polymer composite, SMCN nanoparticles exhibit excellent performance in photopolymerization of butyl acrylate (PBuA) monomer in the presence of n-methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) as a co-initiator in a continuous aerosol-based process. In this one-pot synthesis, SMCN nanoparticles act not only as photoinitiators but at the same time as fillers and templates. The average aerosol residence time in the photoreactor is about 90 s. The presented aerosol-photopolymerization process avoids the need for solvent and surfactant, operates at room temperature, and, more importantly, is suitable to produce the spherical composite with hydrophobic polymers. Furthermore, we simulated the condition of SMCN nanoparticles during illumination in the gas phase process, which can freely rotate. The results demonstrated that the hole (h(+)) density is almost equally distributed in the whole part of the SMCN nanoparticles due to their rotation, leading to efficient light harvesting and more homogeneous photoreaction. The combination of the outstanding features of environmentally friendly SMCN, photopolymerization, and aerosol processing might open new avenues, especially in green chemistry, to produce novel polymer composites with multifunctional properties.

New potentiometric sensor based on molecularly imprinted nanoparticles for cocaine detection.

PubMed

Smolinska-Kempisty, K; Ahmad, O Sheej; Guerreiro, A; Karim, K; Piletska, E; Piletsky, S

2017-10-15

Here we present a potentiometric sensor for cocaine detection based on molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) produced by the solid-phase imprinting method. The composition of polymers with high affinity for cocaine was optimised using molecular modelling. Four compositions were selected and polymers prepared using two protocols: chemical polymerisation in water and UV-initiated polymerisation in organic solvent. All synthesised nanoparticles had very good affinity to cocaine with dissociation constants between 0.6nM and 5.3nM. Imprinted polymers produced in organic solvent using acrylamide as a functional monomer demonstrated the highest yield and affinity, and so were selected for further sensor development. For this, nanoparticles were incorporated within a PVC matrix which was then used to prepare an ion-selective membrane integrated with a potentiometric transducer. It was demonstrated that the sensor was able to quantify cocaine in blood serum samples in the range of concentrations between 1nM and 1mM. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fibers based on polyethylene with silicon and silicon carbide nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olkhov, A. A.; Krutikova, A. A.; Kovaleva, A. N.; Rychagov, O. V.; Ischenko, A. A.

2017-12-01

In the paper, fibrous materials based on polyethylene with nanosized silicon and silicon carbide obtained by the plasma chemical method have been obtained. The concentration of nanosilicon nanoparticles was 0.1-1.5%. Fibers absorb UV radiation in the range 200-400 nm. The size of silicon nanoparticles and dispersion in fibers are estimated by X-ray diffraction. It is shown that silicon nanoparticles exert no effect on the formation of the internal structure of the PE matrix. The degree of crystallinity, melting and crystallization temperatures remain constant. The surface properties of films are investigated by triboelectric methods and by determining the wetting angle. The surface properties of composite films do not differ from the properties of PE films with the concentration of nanoparticles from 0.1 to 1.0%. At a 1.5% content of n-SiC, the microrelief of the surface changes, and the friction coefficient of the films increases. The resulting films are recommended for application as a UV protective coating.

Lanthanide sorbent based on magnetite nanoparticles functionalized with organophosphorus extractants

PubMed Central

Basualto, Carlos; Gaete, José; Molina, Lorena; Valenzuela, Fernando; Yañez, Claudia; Marco, Jose F

2015-01-01

In this work, an adsorbent was prepared based on the attachment of organophosphorus acid extractants, namely, D2EHPA, CYANEX 272, and CYANEX 301, to the surface of superparamagnetic magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were coated with oleic acid, first by a chemisorption mechanism and later by the respective extractant via physical adsorption. The obtained core–shell functionalized magnetite nanoparticle composites were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetry, infrared absorption and vibrating sample magnetometry. All the prepared nanoparticles exhibited a high saturation magnetization capacity that varied between 72 and 46 emu g−1 and decreased as the magnetite nanoparticle was coated with oleic acid and functionalized. The scope of this study also included adsorption tests for lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium and the corresponding analysis of their results. Sorption tests indicated that the functionalized nanoparticles were able to extract the four studied lanthanide metal ions, although the best extraction performance was observed when the sorbent was functionalized with CYANEX 272, which resulted in a loading capacity of approximately 12–14 mgLa/gMNP. The magnetization of the synthesized nanoparticles was verified during the separation of the lanthanide-loaded sorbent from the raffinate by using a conventional magnet. PMID:27877811

Effect of Percolation on the Cubic Susceptibility of Metal Nanoparticle Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, David D.; Bender, Matthew W.; Boyd, Robert W.

1998-01-01

Generalized two-dimensional and three-dimensional Maxwell Garnett and Bruggeman geometries reveal that a sign reversal in the cubic susceptibility occurs for metal nanoparticle composites near the percolation threshold.

Effect of TiO, nanoparticles on the interface in the PET-rubber composites.

PubMed

Vladuta, Cristina; Andronic, Luminita; Duta, Anca

2010-04-01

Usually, ceramic powders (SiO2, ZnO) are used as fillers for enhancing rubber mechanical strength. Poly-ethylene terephthalate (PET)-rubber nanocomposites were prepared by compression molding using titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles as low content fillers (<2% wt). The interface properties of PET-rubber nanocomposites were studied before and after keeping the samples under UV-radiation for a week. UV-radiation has interesting potential for the photochemical modification of polymers and TiO2. The influence of UV radiation on the properties of the interface polymer-TiO2 nanoparticles was evaluated. The impact of nanoparticle aggregates on the nanometer to micrometer organization of PET-rubber composites was studied with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The interface properties were explained by measuring the contact angles and surface tensions. The interactions between components of nanocomposites were investigated with Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) and the effects of TiO2 nanoparticle on the interfaces and composites crystalline structure were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results proved that the TiO2 nanoparticles, in different weight percentages, did not alter the nanocomposites crystallinity or the average crystallites size, but improve the interface properties.

Rational Design and Development of Reactive Multifunctional Micellar Composite Nano-particles for Destruction of Bio-agents

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-01

nanoparticles, , multifunction porous metal oxide -silica composites, porous silicon - Titania and PSi-silver heterojunctions ) have been successfully...nanoparticles, multifunctional porous metal oxide -silica composites, porous silicon -Titania and PSi-silver heterojunctions ) have been successfully...generated charge separation and enhance the photocatalytic oxidation . In the PSi-Ag heterojunctions , Ag can not only act as time-honored antibacterial

Preparation and application of conducting polymer/Ag/clay composite nanoparticles formed by in situ UV-induced dispersion polymerization

PubMed Central

Zang, Limin; Qiu, Jianhui; Yang, Chao; Sakai, Eiichi

2016-01-01

In this work, composite nanoparticles containing polypyrrole, silver and attapulgite (PPy/Ag/ATP) were prepared via UV-induced dispersion polymerization of pyrrole using ATP clay as a templet and silver nitrate as photoinitiator. The effects of ATP concentration on morphology, structure and electrical conductivity were studied. The obtained composite nanoparticles with an interesting beads-on-a-string morphology can be obtained in a short time (10 min), which indicates the preparation method is facile and feasible. To explore the potential applications of the prepared PPy/Ag/ATP composite nanoparticles, they were served as multifunctional filler and blended with poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) matrix to prepare biodegradable composite material. The distribution of fillers in polymer matrix and the interfacial interaction between fillers and PBS were confirmed by scanning electron microscope, elemental mapping and dynamic mechanical analysis. The well dispersed fillers in PBS matrix impart outstanding antibacterial property to the biodegradable composite material as well as enhanced storage modulus due to Ag nanoparticles and ATP clay. The biodegradable composite material also possesses modest surface resistivity (106 ~ 109 Ω/◻). PMID:26839126

Preparation and application of conducting polymer/Ag/clay composite nanoparticles formed by in situ UV-induced dispersion polymerization.

PubMed

Zang, Limin; Qiu, Jianhui; Yang, Chao; Sakai, Eiichi

2016-02-03

In this work, composite nanoparticles containing polypyrrole, silver and attapulgite (PPy/Ag/ATP) were prepared via UV-induced dispersion polymerization of pyrrole using ATP clay as a templet and silver nitrate as photoinitiator. The effects of ATP concentration on morphology, structure and electrical conductivity were studied. The obtained composite nanoparticles with an interesting beads-on-a-string morphology can be obtained in a short time (10 min), which indicates the preparation method is facile and feasible. To explore the potential applications of the prepared PPy/Ag/ATP composite nanoparticles, they were served as multifunctional filler and blended with poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) matrix to prepare biodegradable composite material. The distribution of fillers in polymer matrix and the interfacial interaction between fillers and PBS were confirmed by scanning electron microscope, elemental mapping and dynamic mechanical analysis. The well dispersed fillers in PBS matrix impart outstanding antibacterial property to the biodegradable composite material as well as enhanced storage modulus due to Ag nanoparticles and ATP clay. The biodegradable composite material also possesses modest surface resistivity (10(6)~ 10(9) Ω/◻).

HI-SCALE Nanoparticle Composition and Precursors Field Campaign Report

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

Smith, James; Stark, Harald; Browne, Eleanor

From 21 August to 27 September, 2016, during the second Intensive Operational Period (IOP) of the Holistic Interactions of Shallow Clouds, Aerosols, and Land-Ecoystems (HI-SCALE) field campaign, a suite of instruments were placed in the Guest Instrument Facility (GIF) at the Central Facility of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Climate Research Facility’s Southern Great Plains (SGP) site in Lamont, Oklahoma. The goal of these measurements was to fully characterize the formation and evolution of atmospheric aerosol particles through measurements of gas-phase precursor and ambient nanoparticle composition. Specifically, we sought to: 1. investigate the role ofmore » acid-base chemistry in new-particle growth through measurements of ammonia and amines as well as organic and inorganic acids in both atmospheric nanoparticles and the gas phase; 2. investigate the contribution of other surface-area or volume-controlled processes to nanoparticle formation and growth, such as the uptake of extremely low volatility organic compounds (ELVOCs); 3. evaluate the performance of a new instrument being developed with funding from the DOE Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for measuring gas-phase amines and related compounds; and 4. together with colleagues measuring on the ground and onboard the ARM Gulfstream-1 (G-1) aircraft during HI-SCALE, create a comprehensive data set related to new particle formation and growth that can be used in modeling efforts by the research team as well as DOE collaborators.« less

Electric-field responsive contrast agent based on liquid crystals and magnetic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mair, Lamar O.; Martinez-Miranda, Luz J.; Kurihara, Lynn K.; Nacev, Aleksandar; Hilaman, Ryan; Chowdhury, Sagar; Jafari, Sahar; Ijanaten, Said; da Silva, Claudian; Baker-McKee, James; Stepanov, Pavel Y.; Weinberg, Irving N.

2018-05-01

The properties of liquid crystal-magnetic nanoparticle composites have potential for sensing in the body. We study the response of a liquid crystal-magnetic nanoparticle (LC-MNP) composite to applied potentials of hundreds of volts per meter. Measuring samples using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and imaging composites using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we demonstrate that electric potentials applied across centimeter scale LC-MNP composite samples can be detected using XRD and MRI techniques.

Conductance based characterization of structure and hopping site density in 2D molecule-nanoparticle arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCold, Cliff E.; Fu, Qiang; Howe, Jane Y.; Hihath, Joshua

2015-09-01

Composite molecule-nanoparticle hybrid systems have recently emerged as important materials for applications ranging from chemical sensing to nanoscale electronics. However, creating reproducible and repeatable composite materials with precise properties has remained one of the primary challenges to the implementation of these technologies. Understanding the sources of variation that dominate the assembly and transport behavior is essential for the advancement of nanoparticle-array based devices. In this work, we use a combination of charge-transport measurements, electron microscopy, and optical characterization techniques to determine the role of morphology and structure on the charge transport properties of 2-dimensional monolayer arrays of molecularly-interlinked Au nanoparticles. Using these techniques we are able to determine the role of both assembly-dependent and particle-dependent defects on the conductivities of the films. These results demonstrate that assembly processes dominate the dispersion of conductance values, while nanoparticle and ligand features dictate the mean value of the conductance. By performing a systematic study of the conductance of these arrays as a function of nanoparticle size we are able to extract the carrier mobility for specific molecular ligands. We show that nanoparticle polydispersity correlates with the void density in the array, and that because of this correlation it is possible to accurately determine the void density within the array directly from conductance measurements. These results demonstrate that conductance-based measurements can be used to accurately and non-destructively determine the morphological and structural properties of these hybrid arrays, and thus provide a characterization platform that helps move 2-dimensional nanoparticle arrays toward robust and reproducible electronic systems.Composite molecule-nanoparticle hybrid systems have recently emerged as important materials for applications ranging from

Kenaf Bast Fibers—Part II: Inorganic Nanoparticle Impregnation for Polymer Composites

DOE PAGES

Shi, Jinshu; Shi, Sheldon Q.; Barnes, H. Michael; ...

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate an inorganic nanoparticle impregnation (INI) technique to improve the compatibility between kenaf bast fibers and polyolefin matrices. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the surface morphology of the INI-treated fibers showing that the CaCO 3 nanoparticle crystals grew onto the fiber surface. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was used to verify the CaCO 3 nanoparticle deposits on the fiber surface. The tension tests of the individual fiber were conducted, and the results showed that the tensile strength of the fibers increased significantly (more than 20%) after the INI treatments. Polymermore » composites were fabricated using the INI-treated fiber as reinforcement and polypropylene (PP) as the matrix. The results showed that the INI treatments improved the compatibility between kenaf fibers and PP matrix. The tensile modulus and tensile strength of the composites reinforced with INI-treated fibers increased by 25.9% and 10.4%, respectively, compared to those reinforced with untreated kenaf fibers.« less

Core-based lipid nanoparticles as a nanoplatform for delivery of near-infrared fluorescent imaging agents.

PubMed

Anikeeva, Nadia; Sykulev, Yuri; Delikatny, Edward J; Popov, Anatoliy V

2014-01-01

Pyropheophorbide a (Pyro) is a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent dye and photosensitizer with high quantum yield that makes the dye suitable for tumor treatment both as an imaging and therapy agent. We have designed and synthesized a series of a Pyro-based NIR probes, based on the conjugation of Pyro with lipids. The nature of our probes requires the use of a lipophilic carrier to deliver the probes to cancer cell membranes. To address this, we have utilized lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) consisting of PEGylated lipids, which form the nanoparticle shell, and a lipid core. To endow the LNPs with targeting properties, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) lipids were included in the composition that enables the non-covalent attachment of His-tag targeting proteins preserving their functional activity. We found that the nature of the core molecules influence the nanoparticle size, shelf-life and stability at physiological temperature. Two different Pyro-lipid conjugates were loaded either into the core or shell of the LNPs. The conjugates revealed differential ability to be accumulated in the cell membrane of the target cells with time. Thus, the modular organization of the core-shell LNPs allows facile adjustment of their composition with goal to fine tuning the nanoparticle properties for in vivo application.

Core-based lipid nanoparticles as a nanoplatform for delivery of near-infrared fluorescent imaging agents

PubMed Central

Anikeeva, Nadia; Sykulev, Yuri; Delikatny, Edward J; Popov, Anatoliy V

2014-01-01

Pyropheophorbide a (Pyro) is a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent dye and photosensitizer with high quantum yield that makes the dye suitable for tumor treatment both as an imaging and therapy agent. We have designed and synthesized a series of a Pyro-based NIR probes, based on the conjugation of Pyro with lipids. The nature of our probes requires the use of a lipophilic carrier to deliver the probes to cancer cell membranes. To address this, we have utilized lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) consisting of PEGylated lipids, which form the nanoparticle shell, and a lipid core. To endow the LNPs with targeting properties, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) lipids were included in the composition that enables the non-covalent attachment of His-tag targeting proteins preserving their functional activity. We found that the nature of the core molecules influence the nanoparticle size, shelf-life and stability at physiological temperature. Two different Pyro-lipid conjugates were loaded either into the core or shell of the LNPs. The conjugates revealed differential ability to be accumulated in the cell membrane of the target cells with time. Thus, the modular organization of the core-shell LNPs allows facile adjustment of their composition with goal to fine tuning the nanoparticle properties for in vivo application. PMID:25250201

Nanoparticles based fiber optic SPR sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Kruti; Sharma, Navneet K.

2018-05-01

Localized surface plasmon resonance based fiber optic sensor using platinum nanoparticles is proposed and theoretically analyzed. Increase in thickness of nanoparticles layer increases the sensitivity of sensor. 50 nm thick platinum nanoparticles layer based sensor reveals highest sensitivity.

Recent Advances in Inorganic Nanoparticle-Based NIR Luminescence Imaging: Semiconductor Nanoparticles and Lanthanide Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Kim, Dokyoon; Lee, Nohyun; Park, Yong Il; Hyeon, Taeghwan

2017-01-18

Several types of nanoparticle-based imaging probes have been developed to replace conventional luminescent probes. For luminescence imaging, near-infrared (NIR) probes are useful in that they allow deep tissue penetration and high spatial resolution as a result of reduced light absorption/scattering and negligible autofluorescence in biological media. They rely on either an anti-Stokes or a Stokes shift process to generate luminescence. For example, transition metal-doped semiconductor nanoparticles and lanthanide-doped inorganic nanoparticles have been demonstrated as anti-Stokes shift-based agents that absorb NIR light through two- or three-photon absorption process and upconversion process, respectively. On the other hand, quantum dots (QDs) and lanthanide-doped nanoparticles that emit in NIR-II range (∼1000 to ∼1350 nm) were suggested as promising Stokes shift-based imaging agents. In this topical review, we summarize and discuss the recent progress in the development of inorganic nanoparticle-based luminescence imaging probes working in NIR range.

Influence of Cu10x copper nanoparticles intramuscular injection on mineral composition of rat spleen.

PubMed

Sizova, Elena; Glushchenko, Natalia; Miroshnikov, Sergey; Skalny, Anatoly

2011-01-01

Spleen mineral composition was studied for 25 elements using atomic emission and mass spectrometry (AES-ISP and MS-ISP) for the first time by one- and manifold intramuscular injection of Cu10x copper nanoparticles. This was done, because the spleen is considered to be the organ most amenable of immunological defense and sensitive to exposure. The research is new and based on the necessity to check the accumulation of elements, which can result in toxic effects, and also the character of the influence of nanoparticles on the change of the natural fluctuation rhythm, as well as the interrelation between them. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of porous magnetic composite, based on MCM-41 molecular sieve with Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles

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

Kolotilov, Sergey V.; Shvets, Oleksiy; Cador, Olivier

2006-08-15

Porous magnetic composites were prepared by the synthesis of molecular sieve MCM-41 in the presence of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with average diameter of 15 nm. Nanoparticles were captured by porous silica matrix MCM-41, which resulted in their incorporation, as it was confirmed by TEM, SEM and X-ray diffraction. The materials possessed high surface area (392-666 m{sup 2} g{sup -1}), high pore volume (0.39-0.73 cm{sup 3} g{sup -1}) along with high magnetic response (M {sub S} up to 28.4 emu g{sup -1} at 300 K). Calcination of samples resulted in partial oxidation of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} to {alpha}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}.more » The influence of nanoparticles content on sorption and magnetic properties of the composites was shown. No hysteresis was found for the samples at 300 K; at 5 K, H {sub C} was in the range 370-385 G for non-calcinated samples and 350-356 G for calcinated ones. - Graphical abstract: Schematic presentation of MCM-41/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} composite.« less

Cadmium sulfide rod-bundle structures decorated with nanoparticles from an inorganic/organic composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Jun; Xi, Baojuan; Li, Jingfa; Yan, Yan; Li, Qianwen; Qian, Yitai

2011-08-01

We report a new morphology of wurzite cadmium sulfide with nanoparticles decorated on rod-bundle structures, which were synthesized via calcinations of an inorganic/organic composite at 400 °C in air. The composite was hydrothermally synthesized at 180 °C using thioglycolic acid (TGA) and cadmium acetate as starting materials. The structure, composition, and morphology of the prepared material were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, FT-IR spectrometry, photoluminescence spectrometry, and UV-visible spectrometry. Results indicated that the composite could be defined as CdS 0.65/Cd-TGA0.35. X-ray diffraction revealed that the annealed product is CdS with wurtizite phase. The diameter of the rod is about 150-400 nm and the length from the top to the bottom of the decorated nanoparticle is about 100 nm. The composite showed high intensity of photoluminescence with similar peak position, compared to that of wurtzite CdS, because of the structure defects.

Synthesis of berberine loaded polymeric nanoparticles by central composite design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehra, Meenakshi; Sheorain, Jyoti; Kumari, Santosh

2016-04-01

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid which is extracted from bark and roots of Berberis vulgaris plant. It has been used in ayurvedic medicine as it possess antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant properties etc. But poor solubility of berberine leads to poor stability and bioavailability in medical formulations decreasing its efficacy. Hence nanoformulations of berberine can help in removing the limiting factors of alkaloid enhancing its utilization in pharmaceutical industry. Sodium alginate polymer was used to encapsulate berberine within nanoparticles by emulsion solvent evaporation method using tween 80 as a surfactant. Two factors and three level in central composite design was used to study the formulation. The optimized formulation (1% v/v of Tween 80 and 0.01% w/v of sodium alginate) of polymeric nanoparticles was taken for further evaluations. The size of synthesized nanoparticles was found to be 71.18 nm by particle size analysis (PSA). The berberine loaded polymeric nanoparticles showed better antibacterial activity compared to aqueous solution of berberine by well diffusion assay.

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

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.

The effect of silver nanoparticles on composite shear bond strength to dentin with different adhesion protocols.

PubMed

Fatemeh, Koohpeima; Mohammad Javad, Mokhtari; Samaneh, Khalafi

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of silver nanoparticles on composite shear bond strength using one etch and rinse and one self-etch adhesive systems. Silver nanoparticles were prepared. Transmission electron microscope and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the structure of the particles. Nanoparticles were applied on exposed dentin and then different adhesives and composites were applied. All samples were tested by universal testing machine and shear bond strength was assesed. Particles with average diameter of about 20 nm and spherical shape were found. Moreover, it was shown that pretreatment by silver nanoparticles enhanced shear bond strength in both etch and rinse, and in self-etch adhesive systems (p≤0.05). Considering the positive antibacterial effects of silver nanoparticles, using them is recommended in restorative dentistry. It seems that silver nanoparticles could have positive effects on bond strength of both etch-and-rinse and self-etch adhesive systems. The best results of silver nanoparticles have been achieved with Adper Single Bond and before acid etching.

Formation and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticle Composite with Poly(p-Br/F-phenylsilane).

PubMed

Roh, Sung-Hee; Noh, Ji Eun; Woo, Hee-Gweon; Cho, Myong-Shik; Sohn, Honglae

2015-02-01

The one-pot production and structural characterization of composites of silver nanoparticles with poly(p-Br/F-phenylsilane), Br/F-PPS, have been performed. The conversion of Ag+ ions to stable Ag0 nanoparticles is mediated by the copolymer Br/F-PPS having both possibly reactive Si-H bonds in the polymer backbone and C-Br bonds in the substituents along with relatively inert C-F bonds. Transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy analyses show the formation of the composites where silver nanoparticles (less than 30 nm of size) are well dispersed over the Br/F-PPS matrix. X-ray diffraction patterns are consistent with that for face-centered-cubic typed silver. The polymer solubility in toluene implys that the cleavage of C-Br bond and the Si-F dative bonding may not be occurred appreciably at ambient temperature. Nonetheless, thermogravimetric analysis data suggest that some sort of cross-linking could take place at high temperature. Most of the silver particles undergo macroscopic aggregation without Br/F-PPS, which indicates that the polysilane is necessary for stabilizing the silver nanoparticles.

Ferrofluids based on Co-Fe-Si-B amorphous nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Tianqi; Bian, Xiufang; Yang, Chuncheng; Zhao, Shuchun; Yu, Mengchun

2017-03-01

Magnetic Co-Fe-Si-B amorphous nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by chemical reduction method. ICP, XRD, DSC, and TEM were used to investigate the composition, structure and morphology of Co-Fe-Si-B samples. The results show that the Co-Fe-Si-B samples are amorphous, which consist of nearly spherical nanoparticles with an average particle size about 23 nm. VSM results manifest that the saturation magnetization (Ms) of Co-Fe-Si-B samples ranges from 46.37 to 62.89 emu/g. Two kinds of ferrofluids (FFs) were prepared by dispersing Co-Fe-Si-B amorphous nanoparticles and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles in kerosene and silicone oil, respectively. The magnetic properties, stability and viscosity of the FFs were investigated. The FFs with Co-Fe-Si-B samples have a higher Ms and lower coercivity (Hc) than FFs with CoFe2O4 sample. Under magnetic field, the silicone oil-based FFs exhibit high stability. The viscosity of FFs under different applied magnetic fields was measured by a rotational viscometer, indicating that FFs with Co-Fe-Si-B particles present relative strong response to an external magnetic field. The metal-boride amorphous alloy nanoparticles have potential applications in the preparation of magnetic fluids with good stability and good magnetoviscous properties.

Nanoparticle-Hydrogel Composites: Concept, Design, and Applications of These Promising, Multi-Functional Materials.

PubMed

Thoniyot, Praveen; Tan, Mein Jin; Karim, Anis Abdul; Young, David James; Loh, Xian Jun

2015-02-01

New technologies rely on the development of new materials, and these may simply be the innovative combination of known components. The structural combination of a polymer hydrogel network with a nanoparticle (metals, non-metals, metal oxides, and polymeric moieties) holds the promise of providing superior functionality to the composite material with applications in diverse fields, including catalysis, electronics, bio-sensing, drug delivery, nano-medicine, and environmental remediation. This mixing may result in a synergistic property enhancement of each component: for example, the mechanical strength of the hydrogel and concomitantly decrease aggregation of the nanoparticles. These mutual benefits and the associated potential applications have seen a surge of interest in the past decade from multi-disciplinary research groups. Recent advances in nanoparticle-hydrogel composites are herein reviewed with a focus on their synthesis, design, potential applications, and the inherent challenges accompanying these exciting materials.

Alumina Matrix Composites with Non-Oxide Nanoparticle Addition and Enhanced Functionalities

PubMed Central

Galusek, Dušan; Galusková, Dagmar

2015-01-01

The addition of SiC or TiC nanoparticles to polycrystalline alumina matrix has long been known as an efficient way of improving the mechanical properties of alumina-based ceramics, especially strength, creep, and wear resistance. Recently, new types of nano-additives, such as carbon nanotubes (CNT), carbon nanofibers (CNF), and graphene sheets have been studied in order not only to improve the mechanical properties, but also to prepare materials with added functionalities, such as thermal and electrical conductivity. This paper provides a concise review of several types of alumina-based nanocomposites, evaluating the efficiency of various preparation methods and additives in terms of their influence on the properties of composites. PMID:28347002

Cyanate Ester Resin Modified with Nano-particles for Inclusion in Continuous Fiber Reinforced Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-25

thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) from TA Instruments upon heating at 20 oC/min under air purge. The structural features of the nanoparticles were...low viscosity bisphenol E cyanate ester resin (BECy) resin reinforced with macro scale carbon fibers and negative CTE nanoparticles . Polymer...developed to improve the compatibility of the ZrW2O8 nanoparticles with the polymer matrix. The hybrid composites were prepared with 30 wt

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.

Assessing the heterogeneity level in lipid nanoparticles for siRNA delivery: size-based separation, compositional heterogeneity, and impact on bioperformance.

PubMed

Zhang, Jingtao; Pei, Yi; Zhang, Hangchun; Wang, Lei; Arrington, Leticia; Zhang, Ye; Glass, Angela; Leone, Anthony M

2013-01-07

A primary consideration when developing lipid nanoparticle (LNP) based small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics is formulation polydispersity or heterogeneity. The level of heterogeneity of physicochemical properties within a pharmaceutical batch could greatly affect the bioperformance, quality, and ability of a manufacturer to consistently control and reproduce the formulations. This article studied the heterogeneity in the size, composition, and in vitro performance of siRNA containing LNPs, by conducting preparative scale fractionation using a sephacryl S-1000 based size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) method. Eight LNPs with size in the range of 60-190 nm were first evaluated by the SEC method for size polydispersity characterization, and it was found that LNPs in the range of 60-150 nm could be well-resolved. Two LNPs (LNP A and LNP B) with similar bulk properties were fractionated, and fractions were studied in-depth for potential presence of polydispersity in size, composition, and in vitro silencing, as well as cytotoxicity. LNP A was deemed to be monodisperse following results of a semipreparative SEC fractionation that showed similar size, chemical composition, in vitro silencing activity, and cytotoxicity across the fractions. Therefore, LNP A represents a relatively homogeneous formulation and offers less of a challenge in its pharmaceutical development. In contrast, LNP B fractions were shown to be significantly more polydisperse in size distribution. Interestingly, LNP B SEC fractions also exhibited profound compositional variations (e.g., 5 fold difference in N/P ratio and 3 fold difference in lipid composition) along with up to 40 fold differences in the in vitro silencing activity. The impact of LNP size and formulation composition on in vitro performance is also discussed. The present results demonstrate the complexity and potential for presence of heterogeneity in LNP-based siRNA drug products. This underscores the need for tools that yield a

Fractography and Mechanical Properties of Urethane Dimethacrylate Dental Composites Reinforced with Glass Nanoparticles.

PubMed

M, Monfared; Me, Bahrololoom

2016-12-01

Dental resin composites are becoming prevalent in restorative dentistry and have almost replaced amalgam nowadays. Consequently, their mechanical properties and durability are critical. The aim of this study was to produce Pyrex glass nano-particles by wet milling process and use them as reinforcement in dental resins for anterior restorations and then examination of fractographic properties of these composites. The glass nano-particles were achieved via wet milling. The surface of the particles was modified with 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (γ-MPTMS) silane in order to improve their surface. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) analysis showed that the silane groups provided double bonds to the surface of the particles and prevented agglomeration. Then, the composite resins were made with different weight percentages of Pyrex glass. The mechanical properties of samples flexural test were evaluated. The required energy for fracture of the specimens was achieved via this test. The fracture surfaces of the samples were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) in order to explain the mechanisms of fracture. The results and analysis showed that increasing the glass nano-particles mass fraction had a great effect on mechanical properties of the composites due to the mechanisms of crack propagation and crack deflection as well as preventing void formation. The effective energy dissipation mechanisms such as crack pinning and deflection, was observed in SEM micrographs. Void formation in the low filler content composite is one of the mechanisms to decrease the energy required for fracture of these composites and eventually weaken them.

Fractography and Mechanical Properties of Urethane Dimethacrylate Dental Composites Reinforced with Glass Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

M*, Monfared; ME, Bahrololoom

2016-01-01

Statement of Problem: Dental resin composites are becoming prevalent in restorative dentistry and have almost replaced amalgam nowadays. Consequently, their mechanical properties and durability are critical. Objectives: The aim of this study was to produce Pyrex glass nano-particles by wet milling process and use them as reinforcement in dental resins for anterior restorations and then examination of fractographic properties of these composites. Materials and Methods: The glass nano-particles were achieved via wet milling. The surface of the particles was modified with 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (γ-MPTMS) silane in order to improve their surface. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) analysis showed that the silane groups provided double bonds to the surface of the particles and prevented agglomeration. Then, the composite resins were made with different weight percentages of Pyrex glass. The mechanical properties of samples flexural test were evaluated. The required energy for fracture of the specimens was achieved via this test. The fracture surfaces of the samples were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) in order to explain the mechanisms of fracture. Results: The results and analysis showed that increasing the glass nano-particles mass fraction had a great effect on mechanical properties of the composites due to the mechanisms of crack propagation and crack deflection as well as preventing void formation. The effective energy dissipation mechanisms such as crack pinning and deflection, was observed in SEM micrographs. Conclusions: Void formation in the low filler content composite is one of the mechanisms to decrease the energy required for fracture of these composites and eventually weaken them. PMID:28959761

The effect of nanoparticle enhanced sizing on the structural health monitoring sensitivity and mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowland, Christopher C.; Nguyen, Ngoc A.; Naskar, Amit K.

2018-03-01

With current carbon composites being introduced into new commercial market sectors, there is an opportunity to develop multifunctional composites, which are poised to be the next generation of composites that will see future commercial applications. This multifunctional attribute can be achieved via integrated nanomaterials, which are currently under-utilized in real-world applications despite significant research efforts focused on their synthesis. This research utilizes a simple, scalable approach to integrate various nanomaterials into carbon fiber composites by embedding the nanomaterials in the epoxy fiber sizing. Illustrated in this work is the effect of silicon carbide nanoparticle concentrations and dimensions on the structural health monitoring sensitivity of unidirectional carbon fiber composites. Additionally, the nanoparticles contribute to the overall damping property of the composites thus enabling tunable damping through simple variations in nanoparticle concentration and size. Not only does this nanoparticle sizing offer enhanced sensitivity and tunable damping, but it also maintains the mechanical integrity and performance of the composites, which demonstrates a truly multifunctional composite. Therefore, this research establishes an efficient route for combining nanomaterials research with real-world multifunctional composite applications using a technique that is easily scalable to the commercial level and is compatible with a wide range of fibers and nanomaterials.

Dynamic Response and Simulations of Nanoparticle-Enhanced Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-11-15

MWCNT manufactures, number of layers in a MWCNT can go from a single layer, up to ten layers. Figure 4.18 shows MWCNTs for multiple layers 1, 2, 3, 4...wall carbon nano tubes ( MWCNT ) were characterized. Preliminary investigations were also conducted on Derakane 411-350 vinyl ester thermoset...constants (Cj) of SWCNT, MWCNT and nylon 6,6 nanocomposites. 15. SUBJECT TERMS: Vibration response, damping, nanoparticle-enhanced composites, MWCNT

Multi-Ferroic Polymer Nanoparticle Composites for Next Generation Metamaterials

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-15

IPCMS has synthesized corona shaped magnetite nanostructures that acquire collective assembly during synthesis. These nanostructures displaying a...Moldovan, Ovidiu Ersen, Dominique Begin, Jean-Marc Grenèche, Sebastien Lemonnier, Elodie Barraud, Sylvie Begin-Colin. Two types of corona magnetite...1 MHz- 1 GHz). The permeability values achieved by composites made from collectively assembled corona magnetite nanoparticles are significantly

Elastic Moduli of Nanoparticle-Polymer Composite Thin Films via Buckling on Elastomeric Substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Hongyi; Karim, Alamgir; University of Akron Team

2011-03-01

Polymeric thin films find applications in diverse areas such as coatings, barriers and packaging. The dispersion of nanoparticles into the films was proven to be an effective method to generate tunable properties, particularly mechanical strength. However, there are very few methods for mechanical characterization of the composite thin films with high accuracy. In this study, nanometric polystyrene and polyvinyl alcohol films with uniformly dispersed cobalt and Cloisite nanoparticles at varying concentrations were synthesized via flow-coating and then transferred to crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) flexible substrates. The technique of Strain-Induced Elastic Buckling Instability for Mechanical Measurements (SIEBIMM) was employed to determine the elastic moduli of the films, which were calculated from the buckling patterns generated by applying compressive stresses. Results on moduli of films as a function of the concentrations of nanoparticles and the thicknesses of the composite films will be presented. *Corresponding author: alamgir@uakron.edu

Antibacterial, physical and mechanical properties of flowable resin composites containing zinc oxide nanoparticles.

PubMed

Tavassoli Hojati, Sara; Alaghemand, Homayoon; Hamze, Faeze; Ahmadian Babaki, Fateme; Rajab-Nia, Ramazan; Rezvani, Mohammad Bagher; Kaviani, Mehrnoosh; Atai, Mohammad

2013-05-01

The aim of this study is evaluating the antibacterial activity of resin composites containing ZnO nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans and examining their physical and mechanical properties. The properties of flowable resin composites containing 0-5wt.% nano-ZnO are investigated using different tests: Although the agar diffusion test reveals no significant difference between the groups, the direct contact test demonstrates that by increasing the nanoparticle content, the bacterial growth is significantly diminished (p<0.05). In the aging test, however, the antibacterial properties reduce significantly (p<0.05). The flexural strength and compressive modulus remains unchanged by incorporation of nanoparticles (p>0.05) while the compressive strength and flexural modulus significantly increase (p<0.05). The ZnO containing resins show significantly lower depth of cure (p<0.05), and higher bond strength (p<0.05). There is no significant difference between the degrees of conversion, measured by FTIR technique, of the groups (p>0.05). Production of a dental resin composite with antibacterial activity without significant sacrificing effect on the mechanical properties is desirable in dental material science. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nonlinear optical behavior of DNA-functionalized gold nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulyk, B.; Krupka, O.; Smokal, V.; Figà, V.; Czaplicki, R.; Sahraoui, B.

2018-03-01

The third-order nonlinear optical properties of gold nanoparticles embedded in the DNA-based composites were investigated by means of the third harmonic generation. With this purpose, the thin films comprising DNA-based complexes and Au nanoparticles were spin-deposited on glass substrate and their optical and nonlinear optical features were studied using the Maker-fringe technique at a laser fundamental wavelength of 1064 nm. The values of the third-order susceptibility χ (3)(- 3ω; ω, ω, ω) of the composite films based on DNA complex doped with 5 wt% of N-ethyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-4-(4-nitrophenylazo)aniline were found to be significantly higher than those for pure composite films. Meanwhile, the presence of Au nanoparticles noticeable decreases the third-order nonlinear response of DNA-based composite mainly due to the enhanced absorption and scattering of laser and generated beam, respectively.

Correlation effects in nanoparticle composites: Percolation, packing and tunneling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, Rupam

Percolation is one of the most fundamental and far-reaching physical phenomena, with major implications in a vast variety of fields. The work described in this thesis aims to understand the role of percolation effects in various, seemingly unrelated phenomena, such as the dielectric permittivity of metal-insulator composites, tunneling percolation, and the relationship between percolation and filling factors. Specifically, we investigated 1) the very large enhancement of the dielectric permittivity of a composite metal -- insulator system, RuO2 - CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) near the percolation threshold. For RuO2/CCTO composites, an increase in the real part of the dielectric permittivity (initially about 10 3-104 at 10 kHz) by approximately an order of magnitude is observed in the vicinity of the percolation threshold. 2) In the same system, apart from a classical percolation transition associated with the appearance of a continuous conductance path through RuO2 nanoparticles, at least two additional tunneling percolation transitions are detected. Such behavior is consistent with the recently emerged picture of a quantum conductivity staircase, which predicts several percolation tunneling thresholds in a system with a hierarchy of local tunneling conductance, due to various degrees of proximity of adjacent conducting particles distributed in an insulating matrix. 3) The filling factors of the composites of nanoparticles with different shapes have been studied as a function of volume fraction. Interestingly, like percolation, filling factors also obey critical power law behavior as a function of size ratio of constituent particles.

Effects of Metallic Nanoparticles on Interfacial Intermetallic Compounds in Tin-Based Solders for Microelectronic Packaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haseeb, A. S. M. A.; Arafat, M. M.; Tay, S. L.; Leong, Y. M.

2017-10-01

Tin (Sn)-based solders have established themselves as the main alternative to the traditional lead (Pb)-based solders in many applications. However, the reliability of the Sn-based solders continues to be a concern. In order to make Sn-based solders microstructurally more stable and hence more reliable, researchers are showing great interest in investigating the effects of the incorporation of different nanoparticles into them. This paper gives an overview of the influence of metallic nanoparticles on the characteristics of interfacial intermetallic compounds (IMCs) in Sn-based solder joints on copper substrates during reflow and thermal aging. Nanocomposite solders were prepared by mechanically blending nanoparticles of nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo), manganese (Mn) and titanium (Ti) with Sn-3.8Ag-0.7Cu and Sn-3.5Ag solder pastes. The composite solders were then reflowed and their wetting characteristics and interfacial microstructural evolution were investigated. Through the paste mixing route, Ni, Co, Zn and Mo nanoparticles alter the morphology and thickness of the IMCs in beneficial ways for the performance of solder joints. The thickness of Cu3Sn IMC is decreased with the addition of Ni, Co and Zn nanoparticles. The thickness of total IMC layer is decreased with the addition of Zn and Mo nanoparticles in the solder. The metallic nanoparticles can be divided into two groups. Ni, Co, and Zn nanoparticles undergo reactive dissolution during solder reflow, causing in situ alloying and therefore offering an alternative route of alloy additions to solders. Mo nanoparticles remain intact during reflow and impart their influence as discrete particles. Mechanisms of interactions between different types of metallic nanoparticles and solder are discussed.

Bare laser-synthesized Si nanoparticles as functional elements for chitosan nanofiber-based tissue engineering platforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popov, Anton A.; Al-Kattan, Ahmed; Nirwan, Viraj P.; Munnier, Emilie; Tselikov, Gleb I.; Ryabchikov, Yury V.; Chourpa, Igor; Fahmi, Amir; Kabashin, A. V.

2018-02-01

Methods of femtosecond laser ablation were used to fabricate bare (ligand-free) silicon (Si) nanoparticles in deionized water. The nanoparticles were round in shape, crystalline, free of any impurities, and water-dissolvable, while the dissolution rate depended on the concentration of oxygen defects in their composition. The nanoparticles were then eletrospun with chitosan to form nanoparticle decorated nanofibrous matrices. We found that the functionalization of nanofibers by the nanoparticles can affect the morphology and physico-chemical characteristics of resulting nanostructures. In particular, the presence of Si nanoparticles led to the reduction of fibers thickness, suggesting a potential improvement of fiber's surface reactivity. We also observed the improvement of thermal stability of hybrid nanofibers. We believe that the incorporated Si nanoparticles can serve as functional elements to improve characteristics of chitosan-based matrices for cellular growth, as well as to enable novel imaging or therapeutic functionalities for tissue engineering applications.

Facile synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle/bis(o-phenolpropyl)silicone composites using a gold catalyst.

PubMed

Roh, Sung-Hee; Cheong, Hyeonsook; Kim, Do-Heyoung; Woo, Hee-Gweon; Lee, Byeong-Gweon; Yang, Kap-Seung; Kim, Bo-Hye; Sohn, Honglae

2013-01-01

The generation of silver nanoparticle/bis(o-phenolpropyl)silicone composites have been facilitated by the addition of sodium tetrachloroaurate or gold(Ill) chloride (< 1 wt% of NaAuCl4 or AuCl3) to the reaction of silver nitrate (AgNO3) with bis(o-phenolpropyl)silicone [BPPS, (o-phenolpropyl)2(SiMe2O)n, n = 2,3,8,236]. TEM and FE-SEM data showed that the silver nanoparticles having the size of < 20 nm are well dispersed throughout the BPPS silicone matrix in the composites. XRD patterns are consistent with those for polycrystalline silver. The size of silver nanoparticles augmented with increasing the relative molar concentration of AgNO3 added with respect to BPPS. The addition of gold complexes (1-3 wt%) did not affect the size distribution of silver nanoparticles appreciably. In the absence of BPPS, the macroscopic precipitation of silver by agglomeration, indicating that BPPS is necessary to stabilize the silver nanoparticles surrounded by coordination.

Metal matrix-metal nanoparticle composites with tunable melting temperature and high thermal conductivity for phase-change thermal storage.

PubMed

Liu, Minglu; Ma, Yuanyu; Wu, Hsinwei; Wang, Robert Y

2015-02-24

Phase-change materials (PCMs) are of broad interest for thermal storage and management applications. For energy-dense storage with fast thermal charging/discharging rates, a PCM should have a suitable melting temperature, large enthalpy of fusion, and high thermal conductivity. To simultaneously accomplish these traits, we custom design nanocomposites consisting of phase-change Bi nanoparticles embedded in an Ag matrix. We precisely control nanoparticle size, shape, and volume fraction in the composite by separating the nanoparticle synthesis and nanocomposite formation steps. We demonstrate a 50-100% thermal energy density improvement relative to common organic PCMs with equivalent volume fraction. We also tune the melting temperature from 236-252 °C by varying nanoparticle diameter from 8.1-14.9 nm. Importantly, the silver matrix successfully prevents nanoparticle coalescence, and no melting changes are observed during 100 melt-freeze cycles. The nanocomposite's Ag matrix also leads to very high thermal conductivities. For example, the thermal conductivity of a composite with a 10% volume fraction of 13 nm Bi nanoparticles is 128 ± 23 W/m-K, which is several orders of magnitude higher than typical thermal storage materials. We complement these measurements with calculations using a modified effective medium approximation for nanoscale thermal transport. These calculations predict that the thermal conductivity of composites with 13 nm Bi nanoparticles varies from 142 to 47 W/m-K as the nanoparticle volume fraction changes from 10 to 35%. Larger nanoparticle diameters and/or smaller nanoparticle volume fractions lead to larger thermal conductivities.

Peptide-directed self-assembly of functionalized polymeric nanoparticles. Part II: effects of nanoparticle composition on assembly behavior and multiple drug loading ability.

PubMed

Xiang, Xu; Ding, Xiaochu; Moser, Trevor; Gao, Qi; Shokuhfar, Tolou; Heiden, Patricia A

2015-04-01

Peptide-functionalized polymeric nanoparticles were designed and self-assembled into continuous nanoparticle fibers and three-dimensional scaffolds via ionic complementary peptide interaction. Different nanoparticle compositions can be designed to be appropriate for each desired drug, so that the release of each drug is individually controlled and the simultaneous sustainable release of multiple drugs is achieved in a single scaffold. A self-assembled scaffold membrane was incubated with NIH3T3 fibroblast cells in a culture dish that demonstrated non-toxicity and non-inhibition on cell proliferation. This type of nanoparticle scaffold combines the advantages of peptide self-assembly and the versatility of polymeric nanoparticle controlled release systems for tissue engineering. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Theoretical characterization of the surface composition of ruthenium nanoparticles in equilibrium with syngas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cusinato, Lucy; Martínez-Prieto, Luis M.; Chaudret, Bruno; Del Rosal, Iker; Poteau, Romuald

2016-05-01

A deeper understanding of the relationship between experimental reaction conditions and the surface composition of nanoparticles is crucial in order to elucidate mechanisms involved in nanocatalysis. In the framework of the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, a resolution of this complex puzzle requires a detailed understanding of the interaction of CO and H with the surface of the catalyst. In this context, the single- and co-adsorption of CO and H to the surface of a 1 nm ruthenium nanoparticle has been investigated with density functional theory. Using several indexes (d-band center, crystal overlap Hamilton population, density of states), a systematic analysis of the bond properties and of the electronic states has also been done, in order to bring an understanding of structure/property relationships at the nanoscale. The H : CO surface composition of this ruthenium nanoparticle exposed to syngas has been evaluated according to a thermodynamic model fed with DFT energies. Such ab initio thermodynamic calculations give access to the optimal H : CO coverage values under a wide range of experimental conditions, through the construction of free energy phase diagrams. Surprisingly, under the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis experimental conditions, and in agreement with new experiments, only CO species are adsorbed at the surface of the nanoparticle. These findings shed new light on the possible reaction pathways underlying the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, and specifically the initiation of the reaction. It is finally shown that the joint knowledge of the surface composition and energy descriptors can help to identify possible reaction intermediates.A deeper understanding of the relationship between experimental reaction conditions and the surface composition of nanoparticles is crucial in order to elucidate mechanisms involved in nanocatalysis. In the framework of the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, a resolution of this complex puzzle requires a detailed understanding of the interaction

Composition distributions in FePt(Au) nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, C.; Nikles, D. E.; Harrell, J. W.; Thompson, G. B.

2010-08-01

Ternary alloy FePt(Au) nanoparticles were prepared by the co-reduction of platinum(II) acetylacetonate and gold(III) acetate and the thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl in hot phenyl ether in the presence of oleic acid and oleylamine ligands. This gave spherical particles with an average diameter of 4.4 nm with a range of diameters from approximately 1.6-9 nm. The as-synthesized particles had a solid solution, face-centered-cubic structure. Though the average composition of the particles was Fe44Pt45Au11, individual particle analysis by Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy-X-ray Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy showed a broad distribution in composition. In general, smaller-sized particles tended to have a lower amount of Au as compared to larger-sized particles. As the Au content increased, the ratio of Fe/Pt widened.

Optical properties of MgF2 nano-composite films dispersed with noble metal nanoparticles synthesized by sol-gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wakaki, Moriaki; Soujima, Nobuaki; Shibuya, Takehisa

2015-03-01

Porous MgF2 films synthesized by a sol-gel method exhibit the lowest refractive index among the dielectric optical materials and are the most useful materials for the anti-reflection coatings. On the other hand, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorptions of noble metal nanoparticles in various solid matrices have been extensively studied. New functional materials like a SERS (Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy) tips are expected by synthesizing composite materials between porous MgF2 films featured by the network of MgF2 nanoparticles and noble metal nanoparticles introduced within the network. In this study, fundamental physical properties including morphology and optical properties are characterized for these materials to make clear the potential of the composite system. Composite materials of MgF2 films dispersed with noble metal (Ag, Au) nanoparticles were prepared using the sol-gel technique with various annealing temperatures and densities of noble metal nanoparticles. The structural morphology was analyzed by an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The size and shape distributions of the metal nanoparticles were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The optical properties of fabricated composite films were characterized by UV-Vis-NIR and FT-IR spectrophotometers. The absorption spectra due to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the metal nanoparticles were analyzed using the dielectric function considering the effective medium approximation, typically Maxwell-Garnett model. The Raman scattering spectra were also studied to check the enhancement effect of specimen dropped on the MgF2: Ag nano-composite films deposited on Si substrate. Enhancement of the Raman intensity of pyridine solution specimen was observed.

Borylation of α,β-Unsaturated Acceptors by Chitosan Composite Film Supported Copper Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Wen, Wu; Han, Biao; Yan, Feng; Ding, Liang; Li, Bojie; Wang, Liansheng

2018-01-01

We describe here the preparation of copper nanoparticles stabilized on a chitosan/poly (vinyl alcohol) composite film. This material could catalyze the borylation of α,β-unsaturated acceptors in aqueous media under mild conditions. The corresponding organoboron compounds as well as their converted β-hydroxyl products were all obtained in good to excellent yields. It is noteworthy that this catalyst of copper nanoparticles can be easily recycled eight times and remained catalytically reactive. This newly developed methodology provides an efficient and sustainable pathway for the synthesis of organoboron compounds and application of copper nanoparticles. PMID:29757981

Silk Fibroin-Based Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery

PubMed Central

Zhao, Zheng; Li, Yi; Xie, Mao-Bin

2015-01-01

Silk fibroin (SF) is a protein-based biomacromolecule with excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and low immunogenicity. The development of SF-based nanoparticles for drug delivery have received considerable attention due to high binding capacity for various drugs, controlled drug release properties and mild preparation conditions. By adjusting the particle size, the chemical structure and properties, the modified or recombinant SF-based nanoparticles can be designed to improve the therapeutic efficiency of drugs encapsulated into these nanoparticles. Therefore, they can be used to deliver small molecule drugs (e.g., anti-cancer drugs), protein and growth factor drugs, gene drugs, etc. This paper reviews recent progress on SF-based nanoparticles, including chemical structure, properties, and preparation methods. In addition, the applications of SF-based nanoparticles as carriers for therapeutic drugs are also reviewed. PMID:25749470

Synthesis of honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites as electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, Yachao; Zhou, Min; Chen, Hao; Feng, Lei; Wang, Zhao; Yan, Xinzhu; Guan, Shiyou

2015-12-01

Improving the electrochemical performance of manganese dioxide (MnO2) electrodes is of great significance for supercapacitors. In this study, a novel honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites has been fabricated through freeze-drying method. The honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres are well inserted and dispersed on the graphene. Carbon nanoparticles in the composites act as spacers to effectively prevent graphene from restacking and agglomeration, construct efficient 3D conducting architecture with graphene for honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres, and alleviate the aggregation of honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres by separating them from each other. As a result, such honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites display much improved electrochemical capacitive performance of 255 F g-1 at a current density of 0.5 A g-1, outstanding rate capability (150 F g-1 remained at a current density of 20 A g-1) and good cycling stability (83% of the initial capacitance retained after 1000 charge/discharge cycles). The strategy for the synthesis of these composites is very effective.

Morphological structure of Gluconacetobacter xylinus cellulose and cellulose-based organic-inorganic composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smyslov, R. Yu; Ezdakova, K. V.; Kopitsa, G. P.; Khripunov, A. K.; Bugrov, A. N.; Tkachenko, A. A.; Angelov, B.; Pipich, V.; Szekely, N. K.; Baranchikov, A. E.; Latysheva, E.; Chetverikov, Yu O.; Haramus, V.

2017-05-01

Scanning electron microscopy, ultra-small-angle neutron scattering (USANS), small-angle neutron and X-ray scattering (SANS and SAXS), as well as low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, were used in the studies of micro- and mesostructure of polymer matrix prepared from air-dry preliminarily disintegrated cellulose nano-gel film (synthesized by Gluconacetobacter xylinus) and the composites based on this bacterial cellulose. The composites included ZrO2 nanoparticles, Tb3+ in the form of low molecular weight salt and of metal-polymer complex with poly(vinylpyrrolydone)-poly(methacryloyl-o-aminobenzoic acid) copolymer. The combined analysis of the data obtained allowed revealing three levels of fractal organization in mesostructure of G. xylinus cellulose and its composites. It was shown that both the composition and an aggregation state of dopants have a significant impact on the structural characteristics of the organic-inorganic composites. The composites containing Tb3+ ions demonstrate efficient luminescence; its intensity is an order of magnitude higher in the case of the composites with the metal-polymer complex. It was found that there is the optimal content of ZrO2 nanoparticles in composites resulting in increased Tb3+ luminescence.

Metal Nanoparticles Embedded in Cellulose Nanocrystal Based Films: Material Properties and Post-use Analysis.

PubMed

Lizundia, Erlantz; Goikuria, Uribarri; Vilas, José Luis; Cristofaro, Francesco; Bruni, Giovanna; Fortunati, Elena; Armentano, Ilaria; Visai, Livia; Torre, Luigi

2018-04-25

The dispersion of nanoparticles having different size-, shape-, and composition-dependent properties is an exciting approach to design and synthesize multifunctional materials and devices. This work shows a detailed investigation of the preparation and properties of free-standing nanocomposite films based on cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) loaded with three different types of metal nanoparticles. CNC-based nanocomposites having zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ), and silver oxide (Ag 2 O) have been obtained through evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) in acqueous solution. Morphological and optical characteristics, chemical properties, wettability, and antimicrobial assays of the produced films were conducted. Furthermore, disintegrability in composting condition of CNC based nanocomposites was here investigated for the first time. The morphological observations revealed the formation of a chiral nematic structure with uniformly distributed nanoparticles. The bionanocomposite films based on the metal nanoparticles had effective antimicrobial activity, killing both Escherichia coli RB ( E. coli RB) and Staphylococcus aureus 8325-4 ( S. aureus 8325-4). The simplicity method of film preparation, the large quantity of cellulose in the world, and the free-standing nature of the nanocomposite films offer highly advantageous characteristics that can for the new development of multifunctional materials.

Preparation and antibacterial activities of Ag/Ag+/Ag3+ nanoparticle composites made by pomegranate (Punica granatum) rind extract

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hui; Ren, Yan-yu; Wang, Tao; Wang, Chuang

Nano-silver and its composite materials are widely used in medicine, food and other industries due to their strong conductivity, size effect and other special performances. So far, more microbial researches have been applied, but a plant method is rarely reported. In order to open up a new way to prepare AgNP composites, pomegranate peel extract was used in this work to reduce Ag+ to prepare Ag/Ag+/Ag3+ nanoparticle composites. UV-Vis was employed to detect and track the reduction of Ag+ and the forming process of AgNPs. The composition, structure and size of the crystal were analyzed by XRD and TEM. Results showed that, under mild conditions, pomegranate peel extract reacted with dilute AgNO3 solution to produce Ag/Ag+/Ag3+ nanoparticle composites. At pH = 8 and 10 mmol/L of AgNO3 concentration, the size of the achieved composites ranged between 15 and 35 nm with spherical shapes and good crystallinity. The bactericidal experiment indicated that the prepared Ag/Ag+/Ag3+ nanoparticles had strong antibacterial activity against gram positive bacteria and gram negative bacteria. FTIR analysis revealed that biological macromolecules with groups of sbnd NH2, sbnd OH, and others were distributed on the surface of the newly synthesized Ag/Ag+/Ag3+ nanoparticles. This provided a useful clue to further study the AgNP biosynthesis mechanism.

Optical properties of functional composite silver nanoparticles and their potential use in reproductive medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Syrvatka, Vasyl J.; Slyvchuk, Yurij I.; Rozgoni, Ivan I.; Gevkan, Ivan I.; Bilyy, Oleksandr I.

2013-06-01

Silver nanoparticles are promising product of nanotechnology with attractive physicochemical and biological properties. The main aim of the study was to investigate optical properties of functional silver nanoparticles with different composite agents: polyvinylpyrrolidone, bovine serum albumin, hyaluronan and to explore their potential using in reproductive medicine. The date obtained in the study showed that surface modification of nanoparticles leads to change of their optical, physicochemical and biological properties. The optical properties of silver nanoparticles display, that AgNPs with PVP and BSA is most stable in PBS than AgNPs with HA. However the absorption curves after 120 hours of storage show, that AgNPs-HA were the most stable in ethanol. Results show, that silver nanoparticles did not effect on sperm viability and motility, but cause a changes of some biochemical parameters of conditioned medium, particular increase the concentration of triglycerides, activity of alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and decrease the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase after 3 h of in vitro cultivation at 37°C. According to our latest data AgNPs with HA have a less toxic effect on biological processes in rabbits sperm compared with AgNPs with PVP and BSA. Nevertheless all functional composites of silver nanoparticles at the concentration of 0.1 μg/mL have no toxic effect on spermatozoa and can be successfully applied in reproductive medicine at low concentrations as signal enhancers, optical sensors, and biomarkers.

Tunable optical metamaterial based on liquid crystal-gold nanosphere composite.

PubMed

Pratibha, R; Park, K; Smalyukh, I I; Park, W

2009-10-26

Effect of the surrounding anisotropic liquid crystal medium on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) exhibited by concentrated suspensions of gold nanospheres has been investigated experimentally and compared with the Mie scattering theory. The observed polarization-sensitive SPR and the red-shift in the SPR wavelength with increasing concentration of the gold nanospheres in the liquid crystal matrix have been explained using calculations based on the Maxwell Garnet effective medium theory. Agglomeration of the gold nanospheres that could also lead to such a red-shift has been ruled out using Atomic force microscopy study of thin nanoparticle-doped smectic films obtained on solid substrates. Our study demonstrates feasibility of obtaining tunable optical bulk metamaterials based on smectic liquid crystal - nanoparticle composites.

Spherical porous hydroxyapatite granules containing composites of magnetic and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for the hyperthermia treatment of bone tumor.

PubMed

Kamitakahara, Masanobu; Ohtoshi, Naohiro; Kawashita, Masakazu; Ioku, Koji

2016-05-01

Spherical porous granules of hydroxyapatite (HA) containing magnetic nanoparticles would be suitable for the hyperthermia treatment of bone tumor, because porous HA granules act as a scaffold for bone regeneration, and magnetic nanoparticles generate sufficient heat to kill tumor cells under an alternating magnetic field. Although magnetic nanoparticles are promising heat generators, their small size makes them difficult to support in porous HA ceramics. We prepared micrometer-sized composites of magnetic and HA nanoparticles, and then supported them in porous HA granules composed of rod-like particles. The spherical porous HA granules containing the composites of magnetic and HA nanoparticle were successfully prepared using a hydrothermal process without changing the crystalline phase and heat generation properties of the magnetic nanoparticles. The obtained granules generated sufficient heat for killing tumor cells under an alternating magnetic field (300 Oe at 100 kHz). The obtained granules are expected to be useful for the hyperthermia treatment of bone tumors.

Production of polysaccharide-based bioflocculant for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by Streptomyces sp.

PubMed

Manivasagan, Panchanathan; Kang, Kyong-Hwa; Kim, Dong Gyu; Kim, Se-Kwon

2015-01-01

Polysaccharide-based bioflocculants have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their biodegradable, harmless and negligible secondary pollution. Bioflocculants are organic macromolecular substances secreted by microorganisms. A simple, cost-effective and green method was developed for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using polysaccharides as reducing and stabilizing agents. In this paper, we report on the production and optimization of polysaccharide-based bioflocculant for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by Streptomyces sp. MBRC-91. Medium composition and culture conditions for polysaccharide-based bioflocculants were statistically optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). The bioflocculant production was statistically optimized with most significant factors, namely palm jaggery (18.73g/L), yeast extract (2.07g/L), K2HPO4 (3.74g/L) and NaCl (0.38g/L), respectively. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, FESEM, EDXA and HRTEM. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles revealed strong antibacterial activity in sewage water and this result could make a new avenue in the wastewater treatment. Therefore, the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles can be extended as an alternative for the development of new bactericidal bionanomaterials for wastewater treatment and biotechnological applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detecting Disease Biomarkers Using Nanocavities and Nanoparticle Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forster, Robert J.; Mallon, Colm; Devadoss, Anitha; Keyes, Tia E.

2011-08-01

The convergence of electrochemistry, materials, photonics and biomedical science at the nanoscale opens up significant opportunities for developing advanced sensors. In this contribution, we present examples of our use of nanometer dimensioned electrodes, nanocavities and nanoparticle-metallopolymer composites to create high sensitivity detection platforms and materials for detecting proteins and nucleic acids. The application of these approaches in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancers such as neuroblastoma, as well as point-of-care detection of infectious disease, will be discussed.

Core-shell magnetite-silica composite nanoparticles enhancing DNA damage induced by a photoactive platinum-diimine complex in red light.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhigang; Chai, Aiyun

2012-12-01

Lack of solubility under physiological conditions poses an additional risk for toxicity and side effects for intravenous delivery of the photodynamic therapeutic agent in vivo. Employing magnetite-silica composite nanoparticles as carriers of the photodynamic therapeutic agents may be a promising way to solve the problem. In this study, core-shell magnetite-silica composite nanoparticles were prepared by a sol-gel method, and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering, then they were used as carriers of a photoactive platinum diimine complex. The interactions of the photosensitizer-loaded magnetic composite nanoparticles with DNA in red light were monitored by agarose-gel electrophoresis. The results suggest that high doses of magnetite-silica composite nanoparticles might facilitate the transformation of covalently closed circular (ccc)-DNA band to open circular (oc)-DNA band though they are harmless to DNA at their low concentrations, therefore enhancing the extent of DNA damage caused by the metal complex in red light. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shaping Nanoparticles with Hydrophilic Compositions and Hydrophobic Properties as Nanocarriers for Antibiotic Delivery

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Inspired by the lotus effect in nature, surface roughness engineering has led to novel materials and applications in many fields. Despite the rapid progress in superhydrophobic and superoleophobic materials, this concept of Mother Nature’s choice is yet to be applied in the design of advanced nanocarriers for drug delivery. Pioneering work has emerged in the development of nanoparticles with rough surfaces for gene delivery; however, the preparation of nanoparticles with hydrophilic compositions but with enhanced hydrophobic property at the nanoscale level employing surface topology engineering remains a challenge. Herein we report for the first time the unique properties of mesoporous hollow silica (MHS) nanospheres with controlled surface roughness. Compared to MHS with a smooth surface, rough mesoporous hollow silica (RMHS) nanoparticles with the same hydrophilic composition show unusual hydrophobicity, leading to higher adsorption of a range of hydrophobic molecules and controlled release of hydrophilic molecules. RMHS loaded with vancomycin exhibits an enhanced antibacterial effect. Our strategy provides a new pathway in the design of novel nanocarriers for diverse bioapplications. PMID:27162988

The Preparation and Simple Analysis of a Clay Nanoparticle Composite Hydrogel

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warren, David S.; Sutherland, Sam P. H.; Kao, Jacqueline Y.; Weal, Geoffrey R.; Mackay, Sean M.

2017-01-01

Samples of a composite hydrogel incorporating clay (Laponite XLG and S-482) nanoparticles were prepared using N-isopropylacrylamide. The hydrogels were formed via a radical-initiated addition polymerization using potassium persulfate and N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethylenediamine. Students then measured the force required to stretch the gels and…

Antimicrobial Activity of Al2O3, CuO, Fe3O4, and ZnO Nanoparticles in Scope of Their Further Application in Cement-Based Building Materials

PubMed Central

Cendrowski, Krzysztof; Nawrotek, Paweł; Mijowska, Ewa

2018-01-01

Nanoparticles were proposed as antibacterial cement admixtures for the production of cement-based composites. Nevertheless, the standards for evaluation of such admixtures still do not indicate which model organisms to use, particularly in regard to the further application of material. Apart from the known toxicity of nanomaterials, in the case of cement-based composites there are limitations associated with the mixing and dispersion of nanomaterials. Therefore, four nanooxides (Al2O3, CuO, Fe3O4, and ZnO) and seven microorganisms were tested to initially evaluate the applicability of nanooxides in relation to their further use in cement-based composites. Studies of nanoparticles included chemical analysis, microbial growth kinetics, 4- and 24 h toxicity, and biofilm formation assay. Nanooxides showed toxicity against microorganisms in the used concentration, although the populations were able to re-grow. Furthermore, the effect of action was variable even between strains from the same genus. The effect of nanoparticles on biofilms depended on the used strain. Gathered results show several problems that can occur while studying nanoparticles for specific further application. Proper protocols for nanomaterial dispersion prior the preparation of cement-based composites, as well as a standardized approach for their testing, are the fundamental issues that have to be resolved to produce efficient composites. PMID:29614721

Red Fluorescent Carbon Nanoparticle-Based Cell Imaging Probe.

PubMed

Ali, Haydar; Bhunia, Susanta Kumar; Dalal, Chumki; Jana, Nikhil R

2016-04-13

Fluorescent carbon nanoparticle-based probes with tunable visible emission are biocompatible, environment friendly and most suitable for various biomedical applications. However, synthesis of red fluorescent carbon nanoparticles and their transformation into functional nanoparticles are very challenging. Here we report red fluorescent carbon nanoparticle-based nanobioconjugates of <25 nm hydrodynamic size and their application as fluorescent cell labels. Hydrophobic carbon nanoparticles are synthesized via high temperature colloid-chemical approach and transformed into water-soluble functional nanoparticles via coating with amphiphilic polymer followed by covalent linking with desired biomolecules. Following this approach, carbon nanoparticles are functionalized with polyethylene glycol, primary amine, glucose, arginine, histidine, biotin and folic acid. These functional nanoparticles can be excited with blue/green light (i.e., 400-550 nm) to capture their emission spanning from 550 to 750 nm. Arginine and folic acid functionalized nanoparticles have been demonstrated as fluorescent cell labels where blue and green excitation has been used for imaging of labeled cells. The presented method can be extended for the development of carbon nanoparticle-based other bioimaging probes.

Antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles encapsulated in poly-N-isopropylacrylamide-based polymeric nanoparticles.

PubMed

Qasim, Muhammad; Udomluck, Nopphadol; Chang, Jihyun; Park, Hansoo; Kim, Kyobum

2018-01-01

In this study, we analyzed the antimicrobial activities of poly- N -isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM)-based polymeric nanoparticles encapsulating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Three sizes of AgNP-encapsulating pNIPAM- and pNIPAM-NH 2 -based polymeric nanoparticles were fabricated. Highly stable and uniformly distributed AgNPs were encapsulated within polymeric nanoparticles via in situ reduction of AgNO 3 using NaBH 4 as the reducing agent. The formation and distribution of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, respectively. Both polymeric nanoparticles showed significant bacteriostatic activities against Gram-negative ( Escherichia coli ) and Gram-positive ( Staphylococcus aureus ) bacteria depending on the nanoparticle size and amount of AgNO 3 used during fabrication.

Antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles encapsulated in poly-N-isopropylacrylamide-based polymeric nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Qasim, Muhammad; Udomluck, Nopphadol; Chang, Jihyun; Park, Hansoo; Kim, Kyobum

2018-01-01

In this study, we analyzed the antimicrobial activities of poly-N-isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM)-based polymeric nanoparticles encapsulating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Three sizes of AgNP-encapsulating pNIPAM- and pNIPAM-NH2-based polymeric nanoparticles were fabricated. Highly stable and uniformly distributed AgNPs were encapsulated within polymeric nanoparticles via in situ reduction of AgNO3 using NaBH4 as the reducing agent. The formation and distribution of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, respectively. Both polymeric nanoparticles showed significant bacteriostatic activities against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria depending on the nanoparticle size and amount of AgNO3 used during fabrication. PMID:29379284

Chemoelectronic circuits based on metal nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Yong; Warren, Scott C.; Fuller, Patrick; Grzybowski, Bartosz A.

2016-07-01

To develop electronic devices with novel functionalities and applications, various non-silicon-based materials are currently being explored. Nanoparticles have unique characteristics due to their small size, which can impart functions that are distinct from those of their bulk counterparts. The use of semiconductor nanoparticles has already led to improvements in the efficiency of solar cells, the processability of transistors and the sensitivity of photodetectors, and the optical and catalytic properties of metal nanoparticles have led to similar advances in plasmonics and energy conversion. However, metals screen electric fields and this has, so far, prevented their use in the design of all-metal nanoparticle circuitry. Here, we show that simple electronic circuits can be made exclusively from metal nanoparticles functionalized with charged organic ligands. In these materials, electronic currents are controlled by the ionic gradients of mobile counterions surrounding the ‘jammed’ nanoparticles. The nanoparticle-based electronic elements of the circuitry can be interfaced with metal nanoparticles capable of sensing various environmental changes (humidity, gas, the presence of various cations), creating electronic devices in which metal nanoparticles sense, process and ultimately report chemical signals. Because the constituent nanoparticles combine electronic and chemical sensing functions, we term these systems ‘chemoelectronic’. The circuits have switching times comparable to those of polymer electronics, selectively transduce parts-per-trillion chemical changes into electrical signals, perform logic operations, consume little power (on the scale of microwatts), and are mechanically flexible. They are also ‘green’, in the sense that they comprise non-toxic nanoparticles cast at room temperature from alcohol solutions.

Chemoelectronic circuits based on metal nanoparticles.

PubMed

Yan, Yong; Warren, Scott C; Fuller, Patrick; Grzybowski, Bartosz A

2016-07-01

To develop electronic devices with novel functionalities and applications, various non-silicon-based materials are currently being explored. Nanoparticles have unique characteristics due to their small size, which can impart functions that are distinct from those of their bulk counterparts. The use of semiconductor nanoparticles has already led to improvements in the efficiency of solar cells, the processability of transistors and the sensitivity of photodetectors, and the optical and catalytic properties of metal nanoparticles have led to similar advances in plasmonics and energy conversion. However, metals screen electric fields and this has, so far, prevented their use in the design of all-metal nanoparticle circuitry. Here, we show that simple electronic circuits can be made exclusively from metal nanoparticles functionalized with charged organic ligands. In these materials, electronic currents are controlled by the ionic gradients of mobile counterions surrounding the 'jammed' nanoparticles. The nanoparticle-based electronic elements of the circuitry can be interfaced with metal nanoparticles capable of sensing various environmental changes (humidity, gas, the presence of various cations), creating electronic devices in which metal nanoparticles sense, process and ultimately report chemical signals. Because the constituent nanoparticles combine electronic and chemical sensing functions, we term these systems 'chemoelectronic'. The circuits have switching times comparable to those of polymer electronics, selectively transduce parts-per-trillion chemical changes into electrical signals, perform logic operations, consume little power (on the scale of microwatts), and are mechanically flexible. They are also 'green', in the sense that they comprise non-toxic nanoparticles cast at room temperature from alcohol solutions.

Electrochemical Hydrogen Storage in Facile Synthesized Co@N-Doped Carbon Nanoparticle Composites.

PubMed

Zhou, Lina; Qu, Xiaosheng; Zheng, Dong; Tang, Haolin; Liu, Dan; Qu, Deyang; Xie, ZhiZhong; Li, Junsheng; Qu, Deyu

2017-11-29

A Co@nitrogen-doped carbon nanoparticle composite was synthesized via a facile molecular self-assembling procedure. The material was used as the host for the electrochemical storage of hydrogen. The hydrogen storage capacity of the material was over 300 mAh g -1 at a rate of 100 mAg -1 . It also exhibited superior stability for storage of hydrogen, high rate capability, and good cyclic life. Hybridizing metallic cobalt nanoparticle with nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon is found to be a good approach for the electrochemical storage of hydrogen.

Study on micro-hardness of electroless composite plating of Ni-P with SiC Nano-particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Yong; Zhang, Zhaoguo; Li, Jiamin; Xu, Donghui

2007-07-01

In this paper, a Ni-P electroless composite coating containing nano SiC particles was produced. The wearability of the composite coating was studied. Temperature, PH of the plating liquid and the concentration of SiC nanoparticles in the plating liquid were taken as parameters and the experiment with three factors and five levels was designed through the method of quadratic orthogonal rotation combination. SiC nanoparticles were dispersed by ultrasonic. The influence of the testing parameters on the hardness of the coating was studied intensively. The optimal parameters were obtained when the temperature is 86+/-1°C, PH is 6+/-0.5 and the concentration of SiC nanoparticles is 6g/L. The maximal hardness of the coating is over 1700HV after heat treatment.

Piezoelectric nanoparticle-polymer composite foams.

PubMed

McCall, William R; Kim, Kanguk; Heath, Cory; La Pierre, Gina; Sirbuly, Donald J

2014-11-26

Piezoelectric polymer composite foams are synthesized using different sugar-templating strategies. By incorporating sugar grains directly into polydimethylsiloxane mixtures containing barium titanate nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes, followed by removal of the sugar after polymer curing, highly compliant materials with excellent piezoelectric properties can be fabricated. Porosities and elasticity are tuned by simply adjusting the sugar/polymer mass ratio which gave an upper bound on the porosity of 73% and a lower bound on the elastic coefficient of 32 kPa. The electrical performance of the foams showed a direct relationship between porosity and the piezoelectric outputs, giving piezoelectric coefficient values of ∼112 pC/N and a power output of ∼18 mW/cm3 under a load of 10 N for the highest porosity samples. These novel materials should find exciting use in a variety of applications including energy scavenging platforms, biosensors, and acoustic actuators.

Achieving high thermoelectric performance of Cu1.8S composites with WSe2 nanoparticles.

PubMed

Qin, Peng; Ge, Zhen-Hua; Chen, Yue-Xing; Chong, Xiaoyu; Feng, Jing; He, Jiaqing

2018-08-24

Polycrystalline p-type Cu 1.8 S composites with WSe 2 nanoparticles were fabricated by the mechanical alloying method combined with the spark plasma sintering technique. The Seebeck coefficient was significantly enhanced by the optimized carrier concentration, while the thermal conductivity was simultaneously decreased due to the refined grain and WSe 2 nanoparticles. An enhanced Seebeck coefficient of 110 μV K -1 and a reduced thermal conductivity of 0.68 W m -1 K -1 were obtained for the Cu 1.8 S + 1 wt% WSe 2 sample at 773 K, resulting in a remarkably enhanced peak ZT of 1.22 at 773 K, which is 2.5 times higher than that (0.49 at 773 K) of a pristine Cu 1.8 S sample. The cheap and environmentally friendly Cu 1.8 S-based materials with enhanced properties may find promising applications in thermoelectric devices.

Fluorescent nanoparticles based on AIE fluorogens for bioimaging.

PubMed

Yan, Lulin; Zhang, Yan; Xu, Bin; Tian, Wenjing

2016-02-07

Fluorescent nanoparticles (FNPs) have recently attracted increasing attention in the biomedical field because of their unique optical properties, easy fabrication and outstanding performance in imaging. Compared with conventional molecular probes including small organic dyes and fluorescent proteins, FNPs based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) fluorogens have shown significant advantages in tunable emission and brightness, good biocompatibility, superb photo- and physical stability, potential biodegradability and facile surface functionalization. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in the development of fluorescent nanoparticles based on AIE fluorogens including polymer nanoparticles and silica nanoparticles over the past few years, and the various biomedical applications based on these fluorescent nanoparticles are also elaborated.

Dye-doped silica-based nanoparticles for bioapplications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nhung Tran, Hong; Nghiem, Thi Ha Lien; Thuy Duong Vu, Thi; Tan Pham, Minh; Van Nguyen, Thi; Trang Tran, Thu; Chu, Viet Ha; Thuan Tong, Kim; Thuy Tran, Thanh; Le, Thi Thanh Xuan; Brochon, Jean-Claude; Quy Nguyen, Thi; Nhung Hoang, My; Nguyen Duong, Cao; Thuy Nguyen, Thi; Hoang, Anh Tuan; Hoa Nguyen, Phuong

2013-12-01

This paper presents our recent research results on synthesis and bioapplications of dye-doped silica-based nanoparticles. The dye-doped water soluble organically modified silicate (ORMOSIL) nanoparticles (NPs) with the size of 15-100 nm were synthesized by modified Stöber method from methyltriethoxysilane CH3Si(OCH3)3 precursor (MTEOS). Because thousands of fluorescent dye molecules are encapsulated in the silica-based matrix, the dye-doped nanoparticles are extremely bright and photostable. Their surfaces were modified with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and biocompatible chemical reagents. The highly intensive luminescent nanoparticles were combined with specific bacterial and breast cancer antigen antibodies. The antibody-conjugated nanoparticles can identify a variety of bacterium, such as Escherichia coli O157:H7, through antibody-antigen interaction and recognition. A highly sensitive breast cancer cell detection has been achieved with the anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody-nanoparticles complex. These results demonstrate the potential to apply these fluorescent nanoparticles in various biodetection systems.

Creating surfactant nanoparticles for block copolymer composites through surface chemistry.

PubMed

Kim, Bumjoon J; Bang, Joona; Hawker, Craig J; Chiu, Julia J; Pine, David J; Jang, Se Gyu; Yang, Seung-Man; Kramer, Edward J

2007-12-04

A simple strategy to tailor the surface of nanoparticles for their specific adsorption to and localization at block copolymer interfaces was explored. Gold nanoparticles coated by a mixture of low molecular weight thiol end-functional polystyrene (PS-SH) (Mn = 1.5 and 3.4 kg/mol) and poly(2-vinylpyridine) homopolymers (P2VP-SH) (Mn = 1.5 and 3.0 kg/mol) were incorporated into a lamellar poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine) diblock copolymer (PS-b-P2VP) (Mn = 196 kg/mol). A library of nanoparticles with varying PS and P2VP surface compositions (FPS) and high polymer ligand areal chain densities was synthesized. The location of the nanoparticles in the PS-b-P2VP block copolymer was determined by transmission electron microscopy. Sharp transitions in particle location from the PS domain to the PS/P2VP interface, and subsequently to the P2VP domain, were observed at FPS = 0.9 and 0.1, respectively. This extremely wide window of FPS values where the polymer-coated gold nanoparticles adsorb to the interface suggests a redistribution of PS and P2VP polymers on the Au surface, inducing the formation of amphiphilic nanoparticles at the PS/P2VP interface. In a second and synthetically more challenging approach, gold nanoparticles were covered with a thiol terminated random copolymer of styrene and 2-vinylpyridine synthesized by RAFT polymerization. Two different random copolymers were considered, where the molecular weight was fixed at 3.5 kg/mol and the relative incorporation of styrene and 2-vinylpyridine repeat units varied (FPS = 0.52 and 0.40). The areal chain density of these random copolymers on Au is unfortunately not high enough to preclude any contact between the P2VP block of the block copolymer and the Au surface. Interestingly, gold nanoparticles coated by the random copolymer with FPS = 0.4 were dispersed in the P2VP domain, while those with FPS = 0.52 were located at the interface. A simple calculation for the adsorption energy to the interface of the nanoparticles

Nanoparticle-DNA-polymer composites for hepatocellular carcinoma cell labeling, sensing, and magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Leung, Ken Cham-Fai; Lee, Siu-Fung; Wong, Chi-Hin; Chak, Chun-Pong; Lai, Josie M Y; Zhu, Xiao-Ming; Wang, Yi-Xiang J; Sham, Kathy W Y; Cheng, Christopher H K

2013-12-15

This paper describes comparative studies and protocols in (1) self-assembling of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (NP), circular plasmid DNA, and branched polyethylenimine (PEI) composites; (2) magnetofection; (3) gene delivery, (4) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and (5) cytotoxicity of the composites toward hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transport of bare and capped zinc oxide nanoparticles is dependent on porous medium composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurlanda-Witek, H.; Ngwenya, B. T.; Butler, I. B.

2014-07-01

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are one of the most frequently used nanoparticles in industry and hence are likely to be introduced to the groundwater environment. The mobility of these nanoparticles in different aquifer materials has not been assessed. While some studies have been published on the transport of ZnO nanoparticles in individual porous media, these studies do not generally account for varying porous medium composition both within and between aquifers. As a first step towards understanding the impact of this variability, this paper compares the transport of bare ZnO nanoparticles (bZnO-NPs) and capped ZnO nanoparticles, coated with tri-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (cZnO-NPs), in saturated columns packed with glass beads, fine grained sand and fine grained calcite, at near-neutral pH and groundwater salinity levels. With the exception of cZnO-NPs in sand columns, ZnO nanoparticles are highly immobile in all three types of studied porous media, with most retention taking place near the column inlet. Results are in general agreement with DLVO theory, and the deviation in experiments with cZnO-NPs flowing through columns packed with sand is linked to variability in zeta potential of the capped nanoparticles and sand grains. Therefore, differences in surface charge of nanoparticles and porous media are demonstrated to be key drivers in nanoparticle transport.

The effect of size and composition on structural transitions in monometallic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rossi, Kevin; Pavan, Luca; Soon, YeeYeen; Baletto, Francesca

2018-02-01

Predicting the morphological stability of nanoparticles is an essential step towards the accurate modelling of their chemophysical properties. Here we investigate solid-solid transitions in monometallic clusters of 0.5-2.0 nm diameter at finite temperatures and we report the complex dependence of the rearrangement mechanism on the nanoparticle's composition and size. The concerted Lipscomb's Diamond-Square-Diamond mechanisms which connects the decahedral or the cuboctahedral to the icosahedral basins, take place only below a material dependent critical size above which surface diffusion prevails and leads to low-symmetry and defected shapes still belonging to the initial basin.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering on molecular self-assembly in nanoparticle-hydrogel composite.

PubMed

Miljanić, Snezana; Frkanec, Leo; Biljan, Tomislav; Meić, Zlatko; Zinić, Mladen

2006-10-24

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering has been applied to study weak intermolecular interactions between small organic gelling molecules involved in the silver nanoparticle-hydrogel composite formation. Assembly and disassembly of the gelator molecules in close vicinity to embedded silver nanoparticles were followed by changes in Raman intensity of the amide II and carboxyl vibrational bands, whereas the strength of the bands related to benzene modes remained constant. This implied that the gelator molecules were strongly attached to the silver particles through the benzene units, while participating in gel structure organization by intermolecular hydrogen bonding between oxalyl amide and carboxyl groups.

Advanced Composite Wind Turbine Blade Design Based on Durability and Damage Tolerance

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

Abumeri, Galib; Abdi, Frank

2012-02-16

composite damage and fracture modes that resemble those reported in the tests. The results show that computational simulation can be relied on to enhance the design of tapered composite structures such as the ones used in turbine wind blades. A computational simulation for durability, damage tolerance (D&DT) and reliability of composite wind turbine blade structures in presence of uncertainties in material properties was performed. A composite turbine blade was first assessed with finite element based multi-scale progressive failure analysis to determine failure modes and locations as well as the fracture load. D&DT analyses were then validated with static test performed at Sandia National Laboratories. The work was followed by detailed weight analysis to identify contribution of various materials to the overall weight of the blade. The methodology ensured that certain types of failure modes, such as delamination progression, are contained to reduce risk to the structure. Probabilistic analysis indicated that composite shear strength has a great influence on the blade ultimate load under static loading. Weight was reduced by 12% with robust design without loss in reliability or D&DT. Structural benefits obtained with the use of enhanced matrix properties through nanoparticles infusion were also assessed. Thin unidirectional fiberglass layers enriched with silica nanoparticles were applied to the outer surfaces of a wind blade to improve its overall structural performance and durability. The wind blade was a 9-meter prototype structure manufactured and tested subject to three saddle static loading at Sandia National Laboratory (SNL). The blade manufacturing did not include the use of any nano-material. With silica nanoparticles in glass composite applied to the exterior surfaces of the blade, the durability and damage tolerance (D&DT) results from multi-scale PFA showed an increase in ultimate load of the blade by 9.2% as compared to baseline structural performance (without

Optical sensing properties of Au nanoparticle/hydrogel composite microbeads using droplet microfluidics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Huilin; Men, Dandan; Sun, Yiqiang; Zhang, Tao; Hang, Lifeng; Liu, Dilong; Li, Cuncheng; Cai, Weiping; Li, Yue

2017-10-01

Uniform Au nanoparticle (NP)/poly (acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) [P(AAm-co-AA)] hydrogel microbeads were successfully prepared using droplet microfluidics technology. The microbeads exhibited a good stimuli-responsive behavior to pH value. Particularly in the pH value ranging from pH 2-pH 9, the composite microbead sizes gradually increased along with the increase of pH value. The homogeneous Au NPs, which were encapsulated in the P(AAm-co-AA) hydrogel microbeads, could transform the volume changes of hydrogel into optical signals by a tested single microbead with a microspectrometre system. The glucose was translated into gluconic acid by glucose oxidase. Thus, the Au NP/P(AAm-co-AA) hydrogel microbeads were used for detecting glucose based on pH effects on the composite microbeads. For this, the single Au NP/P(AAm-co-AA) hydrogel microbead could act as a good pH- or glucose-visualizing sensor.

Iron-based soft magnetic composites with Mn-Zn ferrite nanoparticles coating obtained by sol-gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Shen; Sun, Aizhi; Xu, Wenhuan; Zhang, Qian; Zhai, Fuqiang; Logan, Philip; Volinsky, Alex A.

2012-11-01

This paper focuses on iron-based soft magnetic composites which were synthesized by utilizing Mn-Zn ferrite nanoparticles to coat iron powder. The nanocrystalline iron powders, with an average particle diameter of 20 nm, were obtained via the sol-gel method. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and distribution maps show that the iron particle surface is covered with a thin layer of Mn-Zn ferrites. Mn-Zn ferrite uniformly coated the surface of the powder particles, resulting in a reduced imaginary permeability, increased electrical resistivity and a higher operating frequency of the synthesized magnets. Mn-Zn ferrite coated samples have higher permeability and lower magnetic loss when compared with the non-magnetic epoxy resin coated compacts. The real part of permeability increases by 33.5% when compared with the epoxy resin coated samples at 10 kHz. The effects of heat treatment temperature on crystalline phase formation and on the magnetic properties of the Mn-Zn ferrite were investigated via X-ray diffraction and a vibrating sample magnetometer. Ferrites decomposed to FeO and MnO after annealing above 400 °C in nitrogen; thus it is the optimum annealing temperature to attain the desired permeability.

Unique synergism in flame retardancy in ABS based composites through blending PVDF and halloysite nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Remanan, Sanjay; Sharma, Maya; Jayashree, Priyadarshini; Parameswaranpillai, Jyotishkumar; Fabian, Thomas; Shih, Julie; Shankarappa, Prasad; Nuggehalli, Bharath; Bose, Suryasarathi

2017-06-01

This study demonstrates flame retardant materials designed using bi-phasic polymer blends of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) containing halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and Cloisite 30B nanoclay. The prepared blends with and without nanoparticles were extensively characterized. The nanoparticles were added in different weight concentrations to improve the flame retardancy. It was observed that prepared ABS/PVDF blends showed better flame retardancy than ABS based composites. The flame resistance was further improved by the addition of nanoparticles in the blends. The microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC) test showed better flame resistance in ABS/PVDF blends filled with 5 wt% HNTs than other composites. The total heat release of ABS/PVDF blend filled with 5 wt% HNTs decreased by 31% and also the heat of combustion decreased by 26% as compared to neat ABS. When compared with nanoparticles, the addition of PVDF reduced the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and increased the char residue more effectively. A synergistic improvement was observed from both PVDF and HNTs on the flame resistance properties.

Improved Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Metal-Matrix Composites Dispersion-Strengthened by Nanoparticles 

PubMed Central

Levashov, Evgenii; Kurbatkina, Victoria; Alexandr, Zaytsev

2009-01-01

Co- and Fe-based alloys produced by powder technology are being widely used as a matrix for diamond-containing composites in cutting, drilling, grinding pplications, etc. The severe service conditions demand that the mechanical and tribological properties of these alloys be improved. Development of metal-matrix composites (MMCs) and alloys reinforced with nanoparticles is a promising way to resolve this problem. In this work, we have investigated the effect of nano-sized WC, ZrO2, Al2O3, and Si3N4 additives on the properties of sintered dispersion-strengthened Co- and Fe-based MMCs. The results show an increase in the hardness (up to 10 HRB), bending strength (up to 50%), wear resistance (by a factor of 2–10) and a decrease in the friction coefficient (up to 4-fold) of the dispersion-strengthened materials. The use of designed alloys as a binder of cutting diamond tools gave a 4-fold increment in the service life, without reduction in their cutting speed.

Characterization of Potential Exposures to Nanoparticles and Fibers during Manufacturing and Recycling of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Polypropylene Composites.

PubMed

Boonruksa, Pongsit; Bello, Dhimiter; Zhang, Jinde; Isaacs, Jacqueline A; Mead, Joey L; Woskie, Susan R

2016-01-01

Carbon nanotube (CNT) polymer composites are widely used as raw materials in multiple industries because of their excellent properties. This expansion, however, is accompanied by realistic concerns over potential release of CNTs and associated nanoparticles during the manufacturing, recycling, use, and disposal of CNT composite products. Such data continue to be limited, especially with regards to post-processing of CNT-enabled products, recycling and handling of nanowaste, and end-of-life disposal. This study investigated for the first time airborne nanoparticle and fibers exposures during injection molding and recycling of CNT polypropylene composites (CNT-PP) relative to that of PP. Exposure characterization focused on source emissions during loading, melting, molding, grinding, and recycling of scrap material over 20 cycles and included real-time characterization of total particle number concentration and size distribution, nanoparticle and fiber morphology, and fiber concentrations near the operator. Total airborne nanoparticle concentration emitted during loading, melting, molding, and grinding of CNT-PP had geometric mean ranging from 1.2 × 10(3) to 4.3 × 10(5) particles cm(-3), with the highest exposures being up to 2.9 and 300.7 times above the background for injection molding and grinding, respectively. Most of these emissions were similar to PP synthesis. Melting and molding of CNT-PP and PP produced exclusively nanoparticles. Grinding of CNT-PP but not PP generated larger particles with encapsulated CNTs, particles with CNT extrusions, and respirable fiber (up to 0.2 fibers cm(-3)). No free CNTs were found in any of the processes. The number of recycling runs had no significant impact on exposures. Further research into the chemical composition of the emitted nanoparticles is warranted. In the meanwhile, exposure controls should be instituted during processing and recycling of CNT-PP. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf

Real-time Monitoring of Nanoparticle-based Therapeutics: A Review.

PubMed

Han, Qingqing; Niu, Meng; Wu, Qirun; Zhong, Hongshan

2018-01-01

With the development of nanomaterials, nanoparticle-based therapeutics have found increasing application in various fields, including clinical and basic medicine. Real-time monitoring of nanoparticle-based therapeutics is considered critical to both pharmacology and pharmacokinetics. In this review, we discuss the different methods of real-time monitoring of nanoparticle-based therapeutics comprising different types of nanoparticle carriers, such as metal nanoparticles, inorganic nonmetallic nanoparticles, biodegradable polymer nanoparticles, and biological nanoparticles. In the light of examples and analyses, we conclude that the methods of analysis of the four types of nanoparticle carriers are commonly used methods and mostly not necessary. Under most circumstances, real-time monitoring differs according to nanoparticle type, drugs, diseases, and surroundings. With technology development and advanced researches, there have been increasing measures to track the real-time changes in nanoparticles, and this has led to great progress in pharmacology and therapeutics. However, future studies are warranted to determine the accuracy, applicability, and practicability of different technologies. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Gold nanotriangles decorated with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: a compositional and microstructural study

DOE PAGES

Hachtel, J. A.; Yu, S.; Lupini, A. R.; ...

2016-03-11

The combination of iron oxide and gold in a single nanoparticle results in both magnetic and plasmonic properties that can stimulate novel applications in bio-sensing, medical imaging, or therapeutics. Microwave assisted heating allows the fabrication of multi-component, multi-functional nanostructures by promoting selective heating at desired sites. Recently, we reported a microwave-assisted polyol route yielding gold nanotriangles decorated with iron oxide nanoparticles. Here, we present an in-depth microstructural and compositional characterization of the system by using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss (EELS) spectroscopy. A method to remove the iron oxide nanoparticles from the gold nanocrystals and somemore » insights on crystal nucleation and growth mechanisms are also provided.« less

Nanocomposites Derived from Polymers and Inorganic Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Jeon, In-Yup; Baek, Jong-Beom

2010-01-01

Polymers are considered to be good hosting matrices for composite materials because they can easily be tailored to yield a variety of bulk physical properties. Moreover, organic polymers generally have long-term stability and good processability. Inorganic nanoparticles possess outstanding optical, catalytic, electronic and magnetic properties, which are significantly different their bulk states. By combining the attractive functionalities of both components, nanocomposites derived from organic polymers and inorganic nanoparticles are expected to display synergistically improved properties. The potential applications of the resultant nanocomposites are various, e.g. automotive, aerospace, opto-electronics, etc. Here, we review recent progress in polymer-based inorganic nanoparticle composites.

A review on mechanical properties of magnesium based nano composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarafder, Nilanjan; Prasad, M. Lakshmi Vara

2018-04-01

A review was done on Magnesium (Mg) based composite materials reinforced with different nano particles such as TiO2, Cu, Y2O3, SiC, ZrO2 and Al2O3. TiO2 and Al2O3 nanoparticles were synthesised by melt deposition process. Cu, Y2O3, SiC and ZrO2 nanoparticles were synthesised by powder metallurgy process. Composite microstructural characteristics shows that the nano-size reinforcements are uniformly distributed in the composite matrix and also minimum porosity with solid interfacial integrity. The mechanical properties showed yield strength improvement by 0.2 percentage and Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was also improved for all the nano-particles. But UTS was adversely affected with TiO2 reinforcement while ductility was increased. With Cu reinforcement elastic modulus, hardness and fracture resistance increased and improved the co-efficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of Mg based matrix. By Y2O3 reinforcement hardness, fracture resistance was improved and ductility reached maximum by 0.22 volume percentage of Y2O3 and decreased with succeeding increase in Y2O3 reinforcement. The readings exposed that mechanical properties were gathered from the composite comprising 2.0 weight percentage of Y2O3. Ductility and fracture resistance increased with ZrO2 reinforcement in Mg matrix. Using Al2O3 as reinforcement in Mg composite matrix hardness, elastic modulus and ductility was increased but porosity reduced with well interfacial integrity. Dissipation of energy in the form of damping capacity was resolved by classical vibration theory. The result showed that an increasing up to 0.4 volume percentage alumina content increases the damping capacity up to 34 percent. In another sample, addition of 2 weight percentage nano-Al2O3 particles showed big possibility in reducing CTE from 27.9-25.9×10-6 K-1 in Magnesium, tensile and yield strength amplified by 40MPa. In another test, Mg/1.1Al2O3 nanocomposite was manufactured by solidification process followed by hot extrusion

Determination of the structure and composition of Au-Ag bimetallic spherical nanoparticles using single particle ICP-MS measurements performed with normal and high temporal resolution.

PubMed

Kéri, Albert; Kálomista, Ildikó; Ungor, Ditta; Bélteki, Ádám; Csapó, Edit; Dékány, Imre; Prohaska, Thomas; Galbács, Gábor

2018-03-01

In this study, the information that can be obtained by combining normal and high resolution single particle ICP-MS (spICP-MS) measurements for spherical bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) was assessed. One commercial certified core-shell Au-Ag nanoparticle and three newly synthesized and fully characterized homogenous alloy Au-Ag nanoparticle batches of different composition were used in the experiments as BNP samples. By scrutinizing the high resolution spICP-MS signal time profiles, it was revealed that the width of the signal peak linearly correlates with the diameter of nanoparticles. It was also observed that the width of the peak for same-size nanoparticles is always significantly larger for Au than for Ag. It was also found that it can be reliably determined whether a BNP is of homogeneus alloy or core-shell structure and that, in the case of the latter, the core comprises of which element. We also assessed the performance of several ICP-MS based analytical methods in the analysis of the quantitative composition of bimetallic nanoparticles. Out of the three methods (normal resolution spICP-MS, direct NP nebulization with solution-mode ICP-MS, and solution-mode ICP-MS after the acid dissolution of the nanoparticles), the best accuracy and precision was achieved by spICP-MS. This method allows the determination of the composition with less than 10% relative inaccuracy and better than 3% precision. The analysis is fast and only requires the usual standard colloids for size calibration. Combining the results from both quantitative and structural analyses, the core diameter and shell thickness of core-shell particles can also be calculated. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Activity descriptor identification for oxygen reduction on platinum-based bimetallic nanoparticles: in situ observation of the linear composition-strain-activity relationship.

PubMed

Jia, Qingying; Liang, Wentao; Bates, Michael K; Mani, Prasanna; Lee, Wendy; Mukerjee, Sanjeev

2015-01-27

Despite recent progress in developing active and durable oxygen reduction catalysts with reduced Pt content, lack of elegant bottom-up synthesis procedures with knowledge over the control of atomic arrangement and morphology of the Pt-alloy catalysts still hinders fuel cell commercialization. To follow a less empirical synthesis path for improved Pt-based catalysts, it is essential to correlate catalytic performance to properties that can be easily controlled and measured experimentally. Herein, using Pt-Co alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with varying atomic composition as an example, we show that the atomic distribution of Pt-based bimetallic NPs under operating conditions is strongly dependent on the initial atomic ratio by employing microscopic and in situ spectroscopic techniques. The PtxCo/C NPs with high Co content possess a Co concentration gradient such that Co is concentrated in the core and gradually depletes in the near-surface region, whereas the PtxCo/C NPs with low Co content possess a relatively uniform distribution of Co with low Co population in the near-surface region. Despite their different atomic structure, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of PtxCo/C and Pt/C NPs is linearly related to the bulk average Pt-Pt bond length (RPt-Pt). The RPt-Pt is further shown to contract linearly with the increase in Co/Pt composition. These linear correlations together demonstrate that (i) the improved ORR activity of PtxCo/C NPs over pure Pt NPs originates predominantly from the compressive strain and (ii) the RPt-Pt is a valid strain descriptor that bridges the activity and atomic composition of Pt-based bimetallic NPs.

Doxorubicin-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticle composite nanofibers for long-term adjustments of tumor apoptosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Ziming; Pan, Yue; Cheng, Ruoyu; Sheng, Lulu; Wu, Wei; Pan, Guoqing; Feng, Qiming; Cui, Wenguo

2016-06-01

There is a high local recurrence (LR) rate in breast-conserving therapy (BCT) and enhancement of the local treatment is promising as a way to improve this. Thus we propose a drug delivery system using doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticle composite nanofibers which can release anti-tumor drugs in two phases—burst release in the early stage and sustained release at a later stage—to reduce the LR of BCT. In the present study, we designed a novel composite nanofibrous scaffold to realize the efficient release of drugs by loading both DOX and DOX-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles into an electrospun PLLA nanofibrous scaffold. In vitro results demonstrated that this kind of nanomaterial can release DOX in two phases, and the results of in vivo experiments showed that this hybrid nanomaterial significantly inhibited the tumor growth in a solid tumor model. Histopathological examination demonstrated that the apoptosis of tumor cells in the treated group over a 10 week period was significant. The anti-cancer effects were also accompanied with decreased expression of Bcl-2 and TNF-α, along with up-regulation of Bax, Fas and the activation of caspase-3 levels. The present study illustrates that the mesoporous silica nanoparticle composite nanofibrous scaffold could have anti-tumor properties and could be further developed as adjuvant therapeutic protocols for the treatment of cancer.

Preparation and characterization of functional material based on hybrid polymer composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agusu, La; Amiruddin; Taswito, Chen Chen; Herdianto; Zamrun, Muh.

2016-08-01

The microstructures and properties of hybrid polymer composites based on polyaniline (PANi)/γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles/TiO2/carbon have been investigated for multifunctional applications such as heavy metal removal and initial study for radar absorbing material application. γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with spherical shape were synthetized by a coprecipitation method from iron sand. By activating the polyethylene glycol (PEG-400) coated carbon of coconut shell, the homogenous shape and size of carbon was achieved. Then, γ- Fe2O3, TiO2, and carbon were mixed with PANi by an in situ polymerization method at low temperature 0-5 oC. Characterization process involved XRD, SEM, FTIR, VSM, and DC conductivity measurements. For radar absorber application, the functionalized polymer composites showed good electrical conductivity 0.45 S/cm to absorb the incoming electromagnetic energy. An efficient and effective reduction of Pb2+ ion from the water has been achieved by using this material.

Improving dielectric properties of BaTiO3/poly(vinylidene fluoride) composites by employing core-shell structured BaTiO3@Poly(methylmethacrylate) and BaTiO3@Poly(trifluoroethyl methacrylate) nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xianhong; Zhao, Sidi; Wang, Fang; Ma, Yuhong; Wang, Li; Chen, Dong; Zhao, Changwen; Yang, Wantai

2017-05-01

Polymer based dielectric composites were fabricated through incorporation of core-shell structured BaTiO3 (BT) nanoparticles into PVDF matrix by means of solution blending. Core-shell structured BT nanoparticles with different shell composition and shell thickness were prepared by grafting methacrylate monomer (MMA or TFEMA) onto the surface of BT nanoparticles via surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP). The content of the grafted polymer and the micro-morphology of the core-shell structured BT nanoparticles were investigated by thermo gravimetric analyses (TGA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The dielectric properties were measured by broadband dielectric spectroscopy. The results showed that high dielectric constant and low dielectric loss are successfully realized in the polymer based composites. Moreover, the type of the grafted polymer and its content had different effect on the dielectric constant. In detail, the attenuation of dielectric constant was 16.6% for BT@PMMA1/PVDF and 10.7% for BT@PMMA2/PVDF composite in the range of 10 Hz to 100 kHz, in which the grafted content of PMMA was 5.5% and 8.0%, respectively. However, the attenuation of dielectric constant was 5.5% for BT@PTFEMA1/PVDF and 4.0% for BT@PTFEMA2/PVDF composite, in which the grafted content of PTFEMA was 1.5% and 2.0%, respectively. These attractive features of BT@PTFEMA/PVDF composites suggested that dielectric ceramic fillers modified with fluorinated polymer can be used to prepare high performance composites, especially those with low dielectric loss and high dielectric constant.

Surface impact on nanoparticle-based magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents

PubMed Central

Zhang, Weizhong; Liu, Lin; Chen, Hongmin; Hu, Kai; Delahunty, Ian; Gao, Shi; Xie, Jin

2018-01-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in the clinic. To improve imaging quality, MRI contrast agents, which can modulate local T1 and T2 relaxation times, are often injected prior to or during MRI scans. However, clinically used contrast agents, including Gd3+-based chelates and iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), afford mediocre contrast abilities. To address this issue, there has been extensive research on developing alternative MRI contrast agents with superior r1 and r2 relaxivities. These efforts are facilitated by the fast progress in nanotechnology, which allows for preparation of magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) with varied size, shape, crystallinity, and composition. Studies suggest that surface coatings can also largely affect T1 and T2 relaxations and can be tailored in favor of a high r1 or r2. However, the surface impact of NPs has been less emphasized. Herein, we review recent progress on developing NP-based T1 and T2 contrast agents, with a focus on the surface impact. PMID:29721097

New composites of nanoparticle Cu (I) oxide and titania in a novel inorganic polymer (geopolymer) matrix for destruction of dyes and hazardous organic pollutants.

PubMed

Falah, Mahroo; MacKenzie, Kenneth J D; Knibbe, Ruth; Page, Samuel J; Hanna, John V

2016-11-15

New photoactive composites to efficiently remove organic dyes from water are reported. These consist of Cu2O/TiO2 nanoparticles in a novel inorganic geopolymer matrix modified by a large tertiary ammonium species (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB) whose presence in the matrix is demonstrated by FTIR spectroscopy. The CTAB does not disrupt the tetrahedral geopolymer structural silica and alumina units as demonstrated by (29)Si and (27)Al MAS NMR spectroscopy. SEM/EDS, TEM and BET measurements suggest that the Cu2O/TiO2 nanoparticles are homogenously distributed on the surface and within the geopolymer pores. The mechanism of removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from solution consists of a combination of adsorption (under dark conditions) and photodegradation (under UV radiation). MB adsorption in the dark follows pseudo second-order kinetics and is described by Freundlich-Langmuir type isotherms. The performance of the CTAB-modified geopolymer based composites is superior to composites based on unmodified geopolymer hosts, the most effective composite containing 5wt% Cu2O/TiO2 in a CTAB-modified geopolymer host. These composites constitute a new class of materials with excellent potential in environmental protection applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Activated carbon/Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticle composite: fabrication, methyl orange removal and regeneration by hydrogen peroxide.

PubMed

Do, Manh Huy; Phan, Ngoc Hoa; Nguyen, Thi Dung; Pham, Thi Thu Suong; Nguyen, Van Khoa; Vu, Thi Thuy Trang; Nguyen, Thi Kim Phuong

2011-11-01

In the water treatment field, activated carbons (ACs) have wide applications in adsorptions. However, the applications are limited by difficulties encountered in separation and regeneration processes. Here, activated carbon/Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticle composites, which combine the adsorption features of powdered activated carbon (PAC) with the magnetic and excellent catalytic properties of Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles, were fabricated by a modified impregnation method using HNO(3) as the carbon modifying agent. The obtained composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption isotherms and vibrating sample magnetometer. Their performance for methyl orange (MO) removal by adsorption was evaluated. The regeneration of the composite and PAC-HNO(3) (powdered activated carbon modified by HNO(3)) adsorbed MO by hydrogen peroxide was investigated. The composites had a high specific surface area and porosity and a superparamagnetic property that shows they can be manipulated by an external magnetic field. Adsorption experiments showed that the MO sorption process on the composites followed pseudo-second order kinetic model and the adsorption isotherm date could be simulated with both the Freundlich and Langmuir models. The regeneration indicated that the presence of the Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles is important for a achieving high regeneration efficiency by hydrogen peroxide. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Standardization of Nanoparticle Characterization: Methods for Testing Properties, Stability, and Functionality of Edible Nanoparticles.

PubMed

McClements, Jake; McClements, David Julian

2016-06-10

There has been a rapid increase in the fabrication of various kinds of edible nanoparticles for oral delivery of bioactive agents, such as those constructed from proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and/or minerals. It is currently difficult to compare the relative advantages and disadvantages of different kinds of nanoparticle-based delivery systems because researchers use different analytical instruments and protocols to characterize them. In this paper, we briefly review the various analytical methods available for characterizing the properties of edible nanoparticles, such as composition, morphology, size, charge, physical state, and stability. This information is then used to propose a number of standardized protocols for characterizing nanoparticle properties, for evaluating their stability to environmental stresses, and for predicting their biological fate. Implementation of these protocols would facilitate comparison of the performance of nanoparticles under standardized conditions, which would facilitate the rational selection of nanoparticle-based delivery systems for different applications in the food, health care, and pharmaceutical industries.

Use of Nanoparticles for Enhancing the Interlaminar Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Composites and Adhesively Bonded Joints—A Review

PubMed Central

De Cicco, Davide; Asaee, Zohreh; Taheri, Farid

2017-01-01

This review paper aims at reporting some of the notable works carried out concerning the use of nanoparticles (NPs) as a means of improving the resistance of fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials (FRPs) and adhesively bonded joints (ABJs) to delamination initiation and propagation. Applications of various nanoparticles, such as carbon-based, ceramic-based and mineral-based are discussed. The main properties that have been considered for improving the delamination and fatigue resistance of FRPs are the interlaminar shear strength, fracture toughness, and fracture energy. On the other hand, cohesive and interfacial strengths have been the focused parameters in the works that considered enhancement of ABJs. The reported results indicate that inclusion of NPs in polymeric matrices leads to improvement of various material properties, even though some discrepancies in the results have been noted. Notwithstanding, additional research is required to address some of the issues that have not yet been tackled, some of which will be identified throughout this review article. PMID:29104278

Preparation and Characterization of Antimicrobial Films Based on LDPE/Ag Nanoparticles with Potential Uses in Food and Health Industries.

PubMed

Olmos, Dania; Pontes-Quero, Gloria María; Corral, Angélica; González-Gaitano, Gustavo; González-Benito, Javier

2018-01-24

In this work, the antimicrobial effect of silver nanoparticles in polyethylene based nanocomposites has been investigated using a non-conventional processing method to produce homogeneous materials. High energy ball milling under cryogenic conditions was used to achieve a powder of well-blended low-density polyethylene and commercial silver nanoparticles. The final composites in the form of films were obtained by hot pressing. The effect of various silver nanoparticles content (0, 0.5, 1 and 2 wt %) on the properties of low-density polyethylene and the antimicrobial effectiveness of the composite against DH5α Escherichia coli were studied. The presence of silver nanoparticles did not seem to affect the surface energy and thermal properties of the materials. Apart from the inhibition of bacterial growth, slight changes in the aspect ratio of the bacteria with the content of particles were observed, suggesting a direct relationship between the presence of silver nanoparticles and the proliferation of DH5α E. coli ( Escherichia coli ) cells. Results indicate that these materials may be used to commercially produce antimicrobial polymers with potential applications in the food and health industries.

Preparation and Characterization of Antimicrobial Films Based on LDPE/Ag Nanoparticles with Potential Uses in Food and Health Industries

PubMed Central

Pontes-Quero, Gloria María; Corral, Angélica

2018-01-01

In this work, the antimicrobial effect of silver nanoparticles in polyethylene based nanocomposites has been investigated using a non-conventional processing method to produce homogeneous materials. High energy ball milling under cryogenic conditions was used to achieve a powder of well-blended low-density polyethylene and commercial silver nanoparticles. The final composites in the form of films were obtained by hot pressing. The effect of various silver nanoparticles content (0, 0.5, 1 and 2 wt %) on the properties of low-density polyethylene and the antimicrobial effectiveness of the composite against DH5α Escherichia coli were studied. The presence of silver nanoparticles did not seem to affect the surface energy and thermal properties of the materials. Apart from the inhibition of bacterial growth, slight changes in the aspect ratio of the bacteria with the content of particles were observed, suggesting a direct relationship between the presence of silver nanoparticles and the proliferation of DH5α E. coli (Escherichia coli) cells. Results indicate that these materials may be used to commercially produce antimicrobial polymers with potential applications in the food and health industries. PMID:29364193

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.

Lightweight reduced graphene oxide-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite in the quest for an excellent electromagnetic interference shielding material.

PubMed

Singh, Ashwani Kumar; Kumar, Ajit; Haldar, Krishna Kamal; Gupta, Vinay; Singh, Kedar

2018-06-15

This work reports a detailed study of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticle composite as an excellent electromagnetic (EM) interference shielding material in GHz range. A rGO-Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticle composite was synthesized using a facile, one step, and modified solvothermal method with the reaction of FeCl 3 , ethylenediamine and graphite oxide powder in the presence of ethylene glycol. Various structural, microstructural and optical characterization tools were used to determine its synthesis and various properties. Dielectric, magnetic and EM shielding parameters were also evaluated to estimate its performance as a shielding material for EM waves. X-ray diffraction patterns have provided information about the structural and crystallographic properties of the as-synthesized material. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs revealed the information regarding the exfoliation of graphite into rGO. Well-dispersed Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles over the surface of the graphene can easily be seen by employing transmission electron microscopy. For comparison, rGO nanosheets and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles have also been synthesized and characterized in a similar fashion. A plot of the dielectric and magnetic characterizations provides some useful information related to various losses and the relaxation process. Shielding effectiveness due to reflection (SE R ), shielding effectiveness due to absorption (SE A ), and total shielding effectiveness (SE T ) were also plotted against frequency over a broad range (8-12 GHz). A significant change in all parameters (SE A value from 5 dB to 35 dB for Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles to rGO-Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticle composite) was found. An actual shielding effectiveness (SE T ) up to 55 dB was found in the rGO-Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticle composite. These graphs give glimpses of how significantly this material shows shielding effectiveness over a broad range of frequency.

Lightweight reduced graphene oxide-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite in the quest for an excellent electromagnetic interference shielding material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Ashwani Kumar; Kumar, Ajit; Kamal Haldar, Krishna; Gupta, Vinay; Singh, Kedar

2018-06-01

This work reports a detailed study of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite as an excellent electromagnetic (EM) interference shielding material in GHz range. A rGO-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite was synthesized using a facile, one step, and modified solvothermal method with the reaction of FeCl3, ethylenediamine and graphite oxide powder in the presence of ethylene glycol. Various structural, microstructural and optical characterization tools were used to determine its synthesis and various properties. Dielectric, magnetic and EM shielding parameters were also evaluated to estimate its performance as a shielding material for EM waves. X-ray diffraction patterns have provided information about the structural and crystallographic properties of the as-synthesized material. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs revealed the information regarding the exfoliation of graphite into rGO. Well-dispersed Fe3O4 nanoparticles over the surface of the graphene can easily be seen by employing transmission electron microscopy. For comparison, rGO nanosheets and Fe3O4 nanoparticles have also been synthesized and characterized in a similar fashion. A plot of the dielectric and magnetic characterizations provides some useful information related to various losses and the relaxation process. Shielding effectiveness due to reflection (SER), shielding effectiveness due to absorption (SEA), and total shielding effectiveness (SET) were also plotted against frequency over a broad range (8–12 GHz). A significant change in all parameters (SEA value from 5 dB to 35 dB for Fe3O4 nanoparticles to rGO-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite) was found. An actual shielding effectiveness (SET) up to 55 dB was found in the rGO-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composite. These graphs give glimpses of how significantly this material shows shielding effectiveness over a broad range of frequency.

Comparative examination of adsorption of serum proteins on HSA- and PLGA-based nanoparticles using SDS-PAGE and LC-MS.

PubMed

Gossmann, R; Fahrländer, E; Hummel, M; Mulac, D; Brockmeyer, J; Langer, K

2015-06-01

The behavior of nanosized drug carrier systems under cell culture conditions and therefore also the destiny in the body are highly influenced by the protein corona, which is formed upon entering a biological environment. Some of the adsorbed proteins, named opsonins, lead to a shortened plasma circulation half-life of the nanoparticles. Others are attributed to promote the transport of nanoparticles into other compartments of the body, just to mention two examples. Hence, detailed knowledge concerning the composition of the protein corona is of great importance. The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of the nanoparticle starting material and the surface modification on the composition of the adsorbed serum proteins in a cell culture environment. Therefore, positively charged nanoparticles based on the biodegradable polymer poly(dl-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) stabilized with didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DMAB) and negatively charged nanoparticles based on human serum albumin (HSA) were prepared and modified with hydrophilic polymers. By incubating the nanoparticles with fetal bovine serum (FBS) the adsorption of serum proteins on the colloidal system was investigated. Using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) a semi-quantitative analysis of the protein corona was performed and after enzymatic in-solution-digestion the adsorbed proteins were identified using high resolution LC-MS. Our study accentuates the influence of the core material, surface charge, and surface modification on the amount and nature of the adsorbed proteins. The combination of SDS-PAGE and LC-MS turns out to be a simple and reliable method to investigate the protein corona of nanoparticles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Gas Sensors Based on Tin Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized from a Mini-Arc Plasma Source

DOE PAGES

Lu, Ganhua; Huebner, Kyle L.; Ocola, Leonidas E.; ...

2006-01-01

Minimore » aturized gas sensors or electronic noses to rapidly detect and differentiate trace amount of chemical agents are extremely attractive. In this paper, we report on the fabrication and characterization of a functional tin oxide nanoparticle gas sensor. Tin oxide nanoparticles are first synthesized using a convenient and low-cost mini-arc plasma source. The nanoparticle size distribution is measured online using a scanning electrical mobility spectrometer (SEMS). The product nanoparticles are analyzed ex-situ by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) for morphology and defects, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy for elemental composition, electron diffraction for crystal structure, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for surface composition. Nonagglomerated rutile tin oxide ( SnO 2 ) nanoparticles as small as a few nm have been produced. Larger particles bear a core-shell structure with a metallic core and an oxide shell. The nanoparticles are then assembled onto an e-beam lithographically patterned interdigitated electrode using electrostatic force to fabricate the gas sensor. The nanoparticle sensor exhibits a fast response and a good sensitivity when exposed to 100 ppm ethanol vapor in air.« less

Effect of nanoparticle metal composition: mono- and bimetallic gold/copper dendrimer stabilized nanoparticles as solvent-free styrene oxidation catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanckenberg, A.; Kotze, G.; Swarts, A. J.; Malgas-Enus, R.

2018-02-01

A range of mono- and bimetallic AumCun nanoparticles (NPs), with varying metal compositions, was prepared by using a third-generation diaminobutane poly(propylene imine) (G3 DAB-PPI) dendrimer, modified with alkyl chains, as a stabilizer. It was found that the length of the peripheral alkyl chain, ( M1 (C15), M2 (C11), and M3 (C5)), had a direct influence on the average nanoparticle size obtained, confirming the importance of the nanoparticle stabilizer during synthesis. The Au NPs showed the highest degree of agglomeration and polydispersity, whereas the Cu NPs were the smallest and most monodisperse of the NPs. The bimetallic NPs sizes were found to vary between those of the monometallic NPs, depending on the metal composition. Interestingly, the bimetallic NPs were found to be the most stable, showing very little variation in size over time, even up to 9 months. The DSNs were evaluated in the catalytic oxidation of styrene, using either H2O2 or TBHP as oxidant. Here, we show that the bimetallic DSNs are indeed the superior catalysts when compared to their monometallic analogues, under the same reaction conditions, since a good compromise between stability and activity can be achieved where the Au provides catalytic activity and the Cu serves as a stabilizer. These AumCun bimetallic DSNs present a less expensive and more stable catalyst with negligible loss of activity, opening the door to green catalysis.

Magnetophoretic harvesting of oleaginous Chlorella sp. by using biocompatible chitosan/magnetic nanoparticle composites.

PubMed

Lee, Kyubock; Lee, So Yeun; Na, Jeong-Geol; Jeon, Sang Goo; Praveenkumar, Ramasamy; Kim, Dong-Myung; Chang, Won-Seok; Oh, You-Kwan

2013-12-01

The consumption of energy and resources such as water in the cultivation and harvesting steps should be minimized to reduce the overall cost of biodiesel production from microalgae. Here we present a biocompatible and rapid magnetophoretic harvesting process of oleaginous microalgae by using chitosan-Fe3O4 nanoparticle composites. Over 99% of microalgae was harvested by using the composites and the external magnetic field without changing the pH of culture medium so that it may be reused for microalgal culture without adverse effect on the cell growth. Depending on the working volume (20-500 mL) and the strength of surface magnetic-field (3400-9200 G), the process of harvesting microalgae took only 2-5 min. The method presented here not only utilizes permanent magnets without additional energy for fast harvesting but also recycles the medium effectively for further cultivation of microalgae, looking ahead to a large scale economic microalgae-based biorefinement. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electrospun cellulose acetate composites containing supported metal nanoparticles for antifungal membranes.

PubMed

Quirós, Jennifer; Gonzalo, Soledad; Jalvo, Blanca; Boltes, Karina; Perdigón-Melón, José Antonio; Rosal, Roberto

2016-09-01

Electrospun cellulose acetate composites containing silver and copper nanoparticles supported in sepiolite and mesoporous silica were prepared and tested as fungistatic membranes against the fungus Aspergillus niger. The nanoparticles were in the 3-50nm range for sepiolite supported materials and limited by the size of mesopores (5-8nm) in the case of mesoporous silica. Sepiolite and silica were well dispersed within the fibers, with larger aggregates in the micrometer range, and allowed a controlled release of metals to create a fungistatic environment. The effect was assessed using digital image analysis to evaluate fungal growth rate and fluorescence readings using a viability stain. The results showed that silver and copper nanomaterials significantly impaired the growth of fungi when the spores were incubated either in direct contact with particles or included in cellulose acetate composite membranes. The fungistatic effect took place on germinating spores before hyphae growth conidiophore formation. After 24h the cultures were separated from fungistatic materials and showed growth impairment only due to the prior exposure. Growth reduction was important for all the particles and membranes with respect to non-exposed controls. The effect of copper and silver loaded materials was not significantly different from each other with average reductions around 70% for bare particles and 50% for membranes. Copper on sepiolite was particularly efficient with a decrease of metabolic activity of up to 80% with respect to controls. Copper materials induced rapid maturation and conidiation with fungi splitting in sets of subcolonies. Metal-loaded nanomaterials acted as reservoirs for the controlled release of metals. The amount of silver or copper released daily by composite membranes represented roughly 1% of their total load of metals. Supported nanomaterials encapsulated in nanofibers allow formulating active membranes with high antifungal performance at the same time

Robust composite silk fibers pulled out of silkworms directly fed with nanoparticles.

PubMed

Wu, GuoHua; Song, Peng; Zhang, DongYang; Liu, ZeYu; Li, Long; Huang, HuiMing; Zhao, HongPing; Wang, NanNan; Zhu, YanQiu

2017-11-01

This paper reports the impacts of direct feeding silkworms with different nanoparticles (Cu, Fe, and TiO 2 ) on the morphology, structures, and mechanical properties of the resulting silk fiber (SF). The contents of the Cu nanoparticles were 38 times higher in the posterior silk glands and only 2-3 times higher in the SF and in the middle silk glands compared with the controlled groups. Significant changes of the surface morphology, structures, and diameter of the Cu nanoparticle fed SF have been observed, which are attributed to a slight SF protein reconstruction or conformational change in the mixture of silk fibroin and sericin in the silk glands. The resulting Cu-containing SF exhibits good tensile strength of 360MPa and reaches a strain of 38%, which are 89% and 36% higher than those of the natural SF. This study offers a new green strategy for the easy modification to achieve robust composite SF. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation of Osteoinductive Effects of Different Compositions of Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles for Bone Tissue Engineering.

PubMed

Tavakolizadeh, AmirHossein; Ahmadian, Mehdi; Fathi, Mohammad Hossein; Doostmohammadi, Ali; Seyedjafari, Ehsan; Ardeshirylajimi, Abdolreza

Bioactive glasses (BG) is one of the well-known materials that used as dental and bone implants, for this reason it is always interesting for researchers has been to increase BG efficiency in the bone tissue engineering. The aim of this study was to evaluate the osteoinductivity of BG different composition nanoparticles with SiO2-CaO-P2O5. The 45S, 58S, and 63S compositions were prepared via the sol-gel technique. Characterization techniques such as x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and laser Doppler electrophoresis (LDE) were used. The osteoinductive capacity of prepared nanoparticles was investigated using unrestricted somatic stem cells (USSC). The particle size of the samples with an amorphous structure mainly ranged less than 40 nm. The zeta potential was negative for all compositions in distilled water at pH 7.4. Bioactive glass nanoparticles were shown to support proliferation of USSC, as shown by microculture tetrazolium (MTT) assay. During osteogenic differentiation, significantly highest values of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and biomineralization were observed on 45S BG. Subsequently, these markers were measured in higher amounts in USSC on 58S and 63S BG compared with tissue culture polystyrene. The nanometric particle size, osteoinductivity, and negative zeta potential make this material a possible candidate for bone tissue engineering applications.

Photoluminescence from Au nanoparticles embedded in Au:oxide composite films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Hongbo; Wen, Weijia; Wong, George K.

2006-12-01

Au:oxide composite multilayer films with Au nanoparticles sandwiched by oxide layers (such as SiO2, ZnO, and TiO2) were prepared in a magnetron sputtering system. Their photoluminescence (PL) spectra were investigated by employing a micro-Raman system in which an Argon laser with a wavelength of 514 nm was used as the pumping light. Distinct PL peaks located at a wavelength range between 590 and 680 nm were observed in most of our samples, with Au particle size varying from several to hundreds of nanometers. It was found that the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) in these composites exerted a strong influence on the position of the PL peaks but had little effect on the PL intensity.

Metal Nanoparticle Aerogel Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, David D.; Sibille, Laurent; Ignont, Erica; Snow, Lanee; Rose, M. Franklin (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

We have fabricated sol-gels containing gold and silver nanoparticles. Formation of an aerogel produces a blue shift in the surface plasmon resonance as a result of the decrease in the dielectric constant of the matrix upon supercritical extraction of the solvent. However, as a result of chemical interface damping this blue shift does not obey effective medium theories. Annealing the samples in a reducing atmosphere at 400 C eliminates this discrepancy and results in narrowing and further blue shifting of the plasmon resonance. Metal particle aggregation also results in a deviation from the predictions of effective medium theories, but can be controlled through careful handling and by avoiding the use of alcohol. By applying effective medium theories to the heterogeneous interlayer surrounding each metal particle, we extend the technique of immersion spectroscopy to inhomogeneous materials characterized by spatially dependent dielectric constants, such as aerogels. We demonstrate that the shift in the surface plasmon wavelength provides the average fractional composition of each component (air and silica) in this inhomogeneous layer, i.e. the porosity of the aerogel or equivalently, for these materials, the catalytic dispersion. Additionally, the kinetics suggest that collective particle interactions in coagulated metal clusters are perturbed during silica gelation resulting in a change in the aggregate geometry.

Three-dimensional cross-linking composite of graphene, carbon nanotubes and Si nanoparticles for lithium ion battery anode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Suyun; Zhu, Guannan; Tang, Yanping; Xie, Xiaohua; Wang, Qian; Ma, Yufei; Ding, Guqiao; Xie, Xiaoming

2018-03-01

Various graphene-based Si nanocomposites have been reported to improve the performance of active materials in Li-ion batteries. However, these candidates still yield severe capacity fading due to the electrical disconnection and fractures caused by the huge volume changes over extended cycles. Therefore, we have designed a novel three-dimensional cross-linked graphene and single-wall carbon nanotube structure to encapsulate the Si nanoparticles. The synthesized three-dimensional structure is attributed to the excellent self-assembly of carbon nanotubes with graphene oxide as well as a thermal treatment process at 900 °C. This special structure provides sufficient void spaces for the volume expansion of Si nanoparticles and channels for the diffusion of ions and electrons. In addition, the cross-linking of the graphene and single-wall carbon nanotubes also strengthens the stability of the structure. As a result, the volume expansion of the Si nanoparticles is restrained. The specific capacity remains at 1450 mAh g-1 after 100 cycles at 200 mA g-1. This well-defined three-dimensional structure facilitates superior capacity and cycling stability in comparison with bare Si and a mechanically mixed composite electrode of graphene, single-wall carbon nanotubes and silicon nanoparticles.

Multifunctional phosphate-based inorganic-organic hybrid nanoparticles.

PubMed

Heck, Joachim G; Napp, Joanna; Simonato, Sara; Möllmer, Jens; Lange, Marcus; Reichardt, Holger M; Staudt, Reiner; Alves, Frauke; Feldmann, Claus

2015-06-17

Phosphate-based inorganic-organic hybrid nanoparticles (IOH-NPs) with the general composition [M](2+)[Rfunction(O)PO3](2-) (M = ZrO, Mg2O; R = functional organic group) show multipurpose and multifunctional properties. If [Rfunction(O)PO3](2-) is a fluorescent dye anion ([RdyeOPO3](2-)), the IOH-NPs show blue, green, red, and near-infrared fluorescence. This is shown for [ZrO](2+)[PUP](2-), [ZrO](2+)[MFP](2-), [ZrO](2+)[RRP](2-), and [ZrO](2+)[DUT](2-) (PUP = phenylumbelliferon phosphate, MFP = methylfluorescein phosphate, RRP = resorufin phosphate, DUT = Dyomics-647 uridine triphosphate). With pharmaceutical agents as functional anions ([RdrugOPO3](2-)), drug transport and release of anti-inflammatory ([ZrO](2+)[BMP](2-)) and antitumor agents ([ZrO](2+)[FdUMP](2-)) with an up to 80% load of active drug is possible (BMP = betamethason phosphate, FdUMP = 5'-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate). A combination of fluorescent dye and drug anions is possible as well and shown for [ZrO](2+)[BMP](2-)0.996[DUT](2-)0.004. Merging of functional anions, in general, results in [ZrO](2+)([RdrugOPO3]1-x[RdyeOPO3]x)(2-) nanoparticles and is highly relevant for theranostics. Amine-based functional anions in [MgO](2+)[RaminePO3](2-) IOH-NPs, finally, show CO2 sorption (up to 180 mg g(-1)) and can be used for CO2/N2 separation (selectivity up to α = 23). This includes aminomethyl phosphonate [AMP](2-), 1-aminoethyl phosphonate [1AEP](2-), 2-aminoethyl phosphonate [2AEP](2-), aminopropyl phosphonate [APP](2-), and aminobutyl phosphonate [ABP](2-). All [M](2+)[Rfunction(O)PO3](2-) IOH-NPs are prepared via noncomplex synthesis in water, which facilitates practical handling and which is optimal for biomedical application. In sum, all IOH-NPs have very similar chemical compositions but can address a variety of different functions, including fluorescence, drug delivery, and CO2 sorption.

Nickel nanoparticles-chitosan composite coated cellulose filter paper: An efficient and easily recoverable dip-catalyst for pollutants degradation.

PubMed

Kamal, Tahseen; Khan, Sher Bahadar; Asiri, Abdullah M

2016-11-01

In this report, we used cellulose filter paper (FP) as high surface area catalyst supporting green substrate for the synthesis of nickel (Ni) nanoparticles in thin chitosan (CS) coating layer and their easy separation was demonstrated for next use. In this work, FP was coated with a 1 wt% CS solution onto cellulose FP to prepare CS-FP as an economical and environment friendly host material. CS-FP was put into 0.2 M NiCl 2 aqueous solution for the adsorption of Ni 2+ ions by CS coating layer. The Ni 2+ adsorbed CS-FP was treated with 0.1 M NaBH 4 aqueous solution to convert the ions into nanoparticles. Thus, we achieved Ni nanoparticles-CS composite through water based in-situ preparation process. Successful Ni nanoparticles formations was assessed by FESEM and EDX analyses. FTIR used to track the interactions between nanoparticles and host material. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the nanocomposite displays an excellent catalytic activity and reusability in three reduction reactions of toxic compounds i.e. conversion of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol, 2-nitrophenol to 2-aminophenol, and methyl orange dye reduction by NaBH 4 . Such a fabrication process of Ni/CS-FP may be applicable for the immobilization of other metal nanoparticles onto FP for various applications in catalysis, sensing, and environmental sciences. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Colloidal strategies for controlling the morphology, composition, and crystal structure of inorganic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hodges, James M.

Emerging applications and fundamental studies require nanomaterials with increasingly sophisticated architectures that have precise composition, morphology, and crystal structure. Colloidal nanochemistry has emerged as one of the most effective methods for generating high quality, monodisperse nanoparticles with diverse structural features and highly complex geometries. These wet-chemical approaches offer an array of synthetic levers that can be used to tailor nanoparticles for targeted applications, and deliver solution-dispersible solids that are easily integrated onto device architectures. Additionally, colloidal nanoparticles can be used as building blocks for constructing periodic superlattices and multicomponent hybrid nanoparticles, which offer unique properties that can support next-generation technologies. As the applications for colloidal nanoparticles continue to expand, the architectural and compositional requirements for these materials are becoming increasingly rigid. Conventional colloidal methods are effective for generating diverse nanoparticle systems, but rely on complex nucleation and growth processes, which are often poorly understood and difficult to control in dynamic reaction environments. For these reasons, there are a number of high profile nanoparticle targets that remain out of reach. Accordingly, new approaches are needed that can circumvent these synthetic bottlenecks and narrow the growing disconnect between nano-design and synthetic capability. In this dissertation, I present several colloidal strategies for engineering synthetically challenging nanomaterials using multistep reaction sequences that, in many ways, parallel the total-synthesis framework that organic chemists use to access complex molecules. A variety of approaches are discussed, including nanoscale ion exchange transformations and seeded-growth protocol for constructing multicomponent hybrid nanoparticles. First, I demonstrate that solution-mediated anion and cation

Synthesis of transparent BaTiO3 nanoparticle/polymer composite film using DC field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kondo, Yusuke; Okumura, Yasuko; Oi, Chifumi; Sakamoto, Wataru; Yogo, Toshinobu

2008-10-01

Transparent BaTiO3 nanoparticle/polymer composite films were synthesized from titanium-organic film and barium ion in aqueous solution under direct current (DC) field. Titanium-organic precursor was synthesized from titanium isopropoxide, acetylacetone and methacrylate derivative. The UV treatment was effective to increase the anti-solubility of the titanium-organic film during DC processing. BaTiO3 nanoparticles were crystallized in the precursor films on stainless substrates without high temperature process, as low as 40°C. The crystallite size of BaTiO3 increased with increasing reaction temperature from 40 to 50 °C at 3.0 V/cm. BaTiO3 nanoparticles also grew in size with increasing reaction time from 15 min to 45 min at 3.0 V/cm and 50 °C. Transparent BaTiO3 nanoparticle/polymer films were synthesized on stainless substrates at 3.0 V/cm and 50°C for 45 min.

Synergistic Enhancement of Electrocatalytic CO 2 Reduction with Gold Nanoparticles Embedded in Functional Graphene Nanoribbon Composite Electrodes

DOE PAGES

Rogers, Cameron; Perkins, Wade S.; Veber, Gregory; ...

2017-02-24

Regulating the complex environment accounting for the stability, selectivity, and activity of catalytic metal nanoparticle interfaces represents a challenge to heterogeneous catalyst design. Here in this paper, we demonstrate the intrinsic performance enhancement of a composite material composed of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) embedded in a bottom-up synthesized graphene nanoribbon (GNR) matrix for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO 2. Electrochemical studies reveal that the structural and electronic properties of the GNR composite matrix increase the AuNP electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), lower the requisite CO 2 reduction overpotential by hundreds of millivolts (catalytic onset > -0.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrodemore » (RHE)), increase the Faraday efficiency (>90%), markedly improve stability (catalytic performance sustained over >24 h), and increase the total catalytic output (>100-fold improvement over traditional amorphous carbon AuNP supports). The inherent structural and electronic tunability of bottom-up synthesized GNR-AuNP composites affords an unrivaled degree of control over the catalytic environment, providing a means for such profound effects as shifting the rate-determining step in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO 2 to CO, and thereby altering the electrocatalytic mechanism at the nanoparticle surface.« less

High-performance flexible hydrogen sensor made of WS2 nanosheet-Pd nanoparticle composite film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuru, Cihan; Choi, Duyoung; Kargar, Alireza; Liu, Chin Hung; Yavuz, Serdar; Choi, Chulmin; Jin, Sungho; Bandaru, Prabhakar R.

2016-05-01

We report a flexible hydrogen sensor, composed of WS2 nanosheet-Pd nanoparticle composite film, fabricated on a flexible polyimide substrate. The sensor offers the advantages of light-weight, mechanical durability, room temperature operation, and high sensitivity. The WS2-Pd composite film exhibits sensitivity (R 1/R 2, the ratio of the initial resistance to final resistance of the sensor) of 7.8 to 50 000 ppm hydrogen. Moreover, the WS2-Pd composite film distinctly outperforms the graphene-Pd composite, whose sensitivity is only 1.14. Furthermore, the ease of fabrication holds great potential for scalable and low-cost manufacturing of hydrogen sensors.

Electrochemical properties and electrocatalytic activity of conducting polymer/copper nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ehsani, Ali; Jaleh, Babak; Nasrollahzadeh, Mahmoud

2014-07-01

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was used to support Cu nanoparticles. As electro-active electrodes for supercapacitors composites of reduced graphene oxide/Cu nanoparticles (rGO/CuNPs) and polytyramine (PT) with good uniformity are prepared by electropolymerization. Composite of rGO/CuNPs-PT was synthesized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) methods and electrochemical properties of film were investigated by using electrochemical techniques. The results show that, the rGO/CuNPs-PT/G has better capacitance performance. This is mainly because of the really large surface area and the better electronic and ionic conductivity of rGO/CuNPs-PT/G, which lead to greater double-layer capacitance and faradic pseudo capacitance. Modified graphite electrodes (rGO/CuNPs-PT/G) were examined for their redox process and electrocatalytic activities towards the oxidation of methanol in alkaline solutions. The methods of cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were employed. In comparison with a Cu-PT/G (Graphite), rGO/CuNPs-PT/G modified electrode shows a significantly higher response for methanol oxidation. A mechanism based on the electro-chemical generation of Cu(III) active sites and their subsequent consumptions by methanol have been discussed.

A study of the treatment of cutaneous fungal infection in animal model using photoactivated composite of methylene blue and gold nanoparticle.

PubMed

Tawfik, Abeer Attia; Noaman, Islam; El-Elsayyad, Hasan; El-Mashad, Noha; Soliman, Mona

2016-09-01

Onychomycosis is a widespread public health problem, in which T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes is the commenest causative organisms. Current medical therapy has many drawbacks and side effects. Methylene blue (m.b) photodynamic therapy (pdt) proved efficacy but with lengthy sessions. Optimizing methylene blue photodynamic therapy by combination of methylene blue photosensitizer and gold nanoparticles (aunps) in a composite as gold nanoparticles are efficient delivery systems and efficient enhancers of photosensitizers for antifungal photodynamic therapy. Eighty newzealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were used and categorized in eight equal groups as follows; healthy and infection control, composite photodynamic therapy and five comparative groups. Photodynamic therapy was initiated at day three to five post inoculation, for four sessions forty eight hours apart. Each group divided and light exposure at two fluencies; 80J and 100J. All groups were investigated macroscopically and microscopically (histopathology and scanning electron microscope) also flowcytometry assessment for cell death and X-ray analysis for gold nanoparticles accumulation in brain and liver tissues were determined. Recovery from infection approaching 96% in gold nanoparticles+light group, around 40% in methylene blue photodynamic therapy and 34% in composite photodynamic therapy. The observed findings confirmed by apparent decrease of apoptosis, however small amounts of gold nanoparticles detected in brain and liver. Light stimulated gold nanoparticles is a promising tool in treatment of onychomycosis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antimicrobial property of zinc based nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiriac, V.; Stratulat, D. N.; Calin, G.; Nichitus, S.; Burlui, V.; Stadoleanu, C.; Popa, M.; Popa, I. M.

2016-06-01

Pathogen bacteria strains with wide spectrum can cause serious infections with drastic damages on humans. There are studies reflecting antibacterial effect of nanoparticles type metal or metal oxides as an alternative or concurrent treatment to the diseases caused by infectious agents. Synthesised nanoparticles using different methods like sol-gel, hydrothermal or plant extraction were tested following well-established protocols with the regard to their antimicrobial activity. It was found that zinc based nanoparticles possess strong synergistic effect with commonly used antibiotics on infection tratment.

Rhodamine B removal on A-rGO/cobalt oxide nanoparticles composite by adsorption from contaminated water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alwan, Salam H.; Alshamsi, Hassan A. Habeeb; Jasim, Layth S.

2018-06-01

Cobalt oxide nanoparticles@rGO composite is prepared by using graphene oxide (GO) as a supporting substance. GO is first treated with ascorbic acid to form rGO. Finally, cobalt oxide nanoparticles reaction with rGO sheets and using as the adsorbent to removal Rh.B dye from wastewater. The morphology and chemical structure of prepared samples were characterized by FTIR, X-ray spectroscopy, SEM-EDX, TEM, AFM and TGA. The adsorption of Rh.B dye on the A-rGO/Co3O4 composite was accomplished under different conditions that are equilibrium time, pH solution, ionic strength, and temperature. The adsorption isotherms of Rh.B dye on the A-rGO/Co3O4 composite could be illustrated well by the Langmuir, Freundlich and Tempkin model. The thermodynamic factors (ΔHo, ΔSo, and ΔGo) estimated from the temperature-dependent isotherms revealed that the adsorption reaction of Rh.B dye on the A-rGO/Co3O4 composite was an endothermic and spontaneous process.

The electrorheological behavior of suspensions based on molten-salt synthesized lithium titanate nanoparticles and their core-shell titanate/urea analogues.

PubMed

Plachy, T; Mrlik, M; Kozakova, Z; Suly, P; Sedlacik, M; Pavlinek, V; Kuritka, I

2015-02-18

This paper concerns the preparation of novel electrorheological (ER) materials using microwave-assisted synthesis as well as utilizing a suitable shell-providing system with enhanced ER performance. Lithium titanate nanoparticles were successfully synthesized, and their composition was confirmed via X-ray diffraction. Rheological properties were investigated in the absence as well as in the presence of an external electric field. Dielectric properties clarified the response of the particles to the application of an electric field. The urea-coated lithium titanate nanoparticle-based suspension exhibits higher ER performance in comparison to suspensions based on bare particles.

Target-triggered signal turn-on detection of prostate specific antigen based on metal-enhanced fluorescence of Ag@SiO2@SiO2-RuBpy composite nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Yun-Liang; Xu, Dang-Dang; Pang, Dai-Wen; Tang, Hong-Wu

2017-02-01

A three-layer core-shell nanostructure consisting of a silver core, a silica spacer, and a fluorescent dye RuBpy-doped outer silica layer was fabricated, and the optimal metal-enhanced fluorescence (MEF) distance was explored through adjusting the thickness of the silica spacer. The results show that the optimal distance is ˜10.4 nm with the maximum fluorescence enhancement factor 2.12. Then a new target-triggered MEF ‘turn-on’ strategy based on the optimized composite nanoparticles was successfully constructed for quantitative detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA), by using RuBpy as the energy donor and BHQ-2 as the acceptor. The hybridization of the complementary DNA of PSA-aptamer immobilized on the surface of the MEF nanoparticles with PSA-aptamer modified with BHQ-2, brought BHQ-2 in close proximity to RuBpy-doped silica shell and resulted in the decrease of fluorescence. In the presence of target PSA molecules, the BHQ-PSA aptamer is dissociated from the surface of the nanoparticles with the fluorescence switched on. Therefore, the assay of PSA was achieved by measuring the varying fluorescence intensity. The results show that PSA can be detected in the range of 1-100 ng ml-1 with a detection limit of 0.20 ng ml-1 (6.1 pM), which is 6.7-fold increase of that using hollow RuBpy-doped silica nanoparticles. Moreover, satisfactory results were obtained when PSA was detected in 1% serum.

Magnetic nanoparticles based cancer therapy: current status and applications.

PubMed

Zhang, Huan; Liu, Xiao Li; Zhang, Yi Fan; Gao, Fei; Li, Ga Long; He, Yuan; Peng, Ming Li; Fan, Hai Ming

2018-04-01

Nanotechnology holds a promising potential for developing biomedical nanoplatforms in cancer therapy. The magnetic nanoparticles, which integrate uniquely appealing features of magnetic manipulation, nanoscale heat generator, localized magnetic field and enzyme-mimics, prompt the development and application of magnetic nanoparticles-based cancer medicine. Considerable success has been achieved in improving the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sensitivity, and the therapeutic function of the magnetic nanoparticles should be given adequate attention. This work reviews the current status and applications of magnetic nanoparticles based cancer therapy. The advantages of magnetic nanoparticles that may contribute to improved therapeutics efficacy of clinic cancer treatment are highlighted here.

Structural, compositional, optical and colorimetric characterization of TiN-nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reinholdt, A.; Pecenka, R.; Pinchuk, A.; Runte, S.; Stepanov, A. L.; Weirich, Th. E.; Kreibig, U.

2004-10-01

We present results of an investigation of TiN nanoparticles, which were produced by laser ablation/evaporation and adiabatic expansion with the nanoparticle beam apparatus LUCAS. Compositional and structural characterization, using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED), revealed that crystalline and almost stoichiometric particles were formed and that they are susceptible to oxidation. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed that TiN nanoparticles exhibit cuboid shapes. The size distributions were obtained using the edge length as parameter. They are fairly broad and the mean particle diameter depends on the seeding gas flow (the pressure) that is applied to the ablation chamber during production. In situ optical transmission spectra of the TiN nanoparticles deposited on a quartz substrate indicate a pronounced single Mie resonance at around 1.7 eV and an absorption flank starting at approximately 3.0 eV. The experimental optical extinction spectra of different samples were fitted using Mie theory calculations. The dielectric function of bulk TiN was modified to account for size and interface damping of the Mie resonance. Due to the distinct absorption band, TiN may be used as a color pigment. The dependence of the color stimulus on the extinction cross-section as well as on the product of the particle concentration and the sample thickness were examined. Chromaticity coordinates were derived according to the CIE 1976 (L^*a^*b^*) color space from the in situ optical transmission spectra.

Ceramic composite separators coated with moisturized ZrO(2) nanoparticles for improving the electrochemical performance and thermal stability of lithium ion batteries.

PubMed

Kim, Ki Jae; Kwon, Hyuk Kwon; Park, Min-Sik; Yim, Taeeun; Yu, Ji-Sang; Kim, Young-Jun

2014-05-28

We introduce a ceramic composite separator prepared by coating moisturized ZrO2 nanoparticles with a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF-12wt%HFP) copolymer on a polyethylene separator. The effect of moisturized ZrO2 nanoparticles on the morphology and the microstructure of the polymeric coating layer is investigated. A large number of micropores formed around the embedded ZrO2 nanoparticles in the coating layer as a result of the phase inversion caused by the adsorbed moisture. The formation of micropores highly affects the ionic conductivity and electrolyte uptake of the ceramic composite separator and, by extension, the rate discharge properties of lithium ion batteries. In particular, thermal stability of the ceramic composite separators coated with the highly moisturized ZrO2 nanoparticles (a moisture content of 16 000 ppm) is dramatically improved without any degradation in electrochemical performance compared to the performance of pristine polyethylene separators.

Effects of MgO modified β-TCP nanoparticles on the microstructure and properties of β-TCP/Mg-Zn-Zr composites.

PubMed

Zheng, H R; Li, Z; You, C; Liu, D B; Chen, M F

2017-03-01

The mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy composites were improved by the addition of MgO surface modified tricalcium phosphate ceramic nanoparticles (m-β-TCP). Mg-3Zn-0.8Zr composites with unmodified (MZZT) and modified (MZZMT) nanoparticles were produced by high shear mixing technology. Effects of MgO m-β-TCP nanoparticles on the microstructure, mechanical properties, electrochemical corrosion properties and cytocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Zr/β-TCP composites were investigated. After hot extrusion deformation and dynamic recrystallization, the grain size of MZZMT was the half size of MZZT and the distribution of m-β-TCP particles in the matrix was more uniform than β-TCP particles. The yield tensile strength (YTS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and corrosion potential (Ecorr) of MZZMT were higher than MZZT; the corrosion current density (I corr ) of MZZMT was lower than MZZT. Cell proliferation of co-cultured MZZMT and MZZT composite samples were roughly the same and the cell number at each time point is higher for MZZMT than for MZZT samples.

Silver nanoparticle based antibacterial methacrylate hydrogels potential for bone graft applications.

PubMed

González-Sánchez, M Isabel; Perni, Stefano; Tommasi, Giacomo; Morris, Nathanael Glyn; Hawkins, Karl; López-Cabarcos, Enrique; Prokopovich, Polina

2015-05-01

Infections are frequent and very undesired occurrences after orthopedic procedures; furthermore, the growing concern caused by the rise in antibiotic resistance is progressively dwindling the efficacy of such drugs. Artificial bone graft materials could solve some of the problems associated with the gold standard use of natural bone graft such as limited bone material, pain at the donor site and rejections if donor tissue is used. We have previously described new acrylate base nanocomposite hydrogels as bone graft materials. In the present paper, we describe the integration of silver nanoparticles in the polymeric mineralized biomaterial to provide non-antibiotic antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Two different crosslinking degrees were tested and the silver nanoparticles were integrated into the composite matrix by means of three different methods: entrapment in the polymeric hydrogel before the mineralization; diffusion during the process of calcium phosphate crystallization and adsorption post-mineralization. The latter being generally the most effective method of encapsulation; however, the adsorption of silver nanoparticles inside the pores of the biomaterial led to a decreasing antibacterial activity for adsorption time longer than 2 days. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Silver nanoparticle based antibacterial methacrylate hydrogels potential for bone graft applications

PubMed Central

González-Sánchez, M. Isabel; Perni, Stefano; Tommasi, Giacomo; Morris, Nathanael Glyn; Hawkins, Karl; López-Cabarcos, Enrique; Prokopovich, Polina

2015-01-01

Infections are frequent and very undesired occurrences after orthopedic procedures; furthermore, the growing concern caused by the rise in antibiotic resistance is progressively dwindling the efficacy of such drugs. Artificial bone graft materials could solve some of the problems associated with the gold standard use of natural bone graft such as limited bone material, pain at the donor site and rejections if donor tissue is used. We have previously described new acrylate base nanocomposite hydrogels as bone graft materials. In the present paper, we describe the integration of silver nanoparticles in the polymeric mineralized biomaterial to provide non-antibiotic antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Two different crosslinking degrees were tested and the silver nanoparticles were integrated into the composite matrix by means of three different methods: entrapment in the polymeric hydrogel before the mineralization; diffusion during the process of calcium phosphate crystallization and adsorption post-mineralization. The latter being generally the most effective method of encapsulation; however, the adsorption of silver nanoparticles inside the pores of the biomaterial led to a decreasing antibacterial activity for adsorption time longer than 2 days. PMID:25746278

Exceptionally strong, stiff and hard hybrid material based on an elastomer and isotropically shaped ceramic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Georgopanos, Prokopios; Schneider, Gerold A; Dreyer, Axel; Handge, Ulrich A; Filiz, Volkan; Feld, Artur; Yilmaz, Ezgi D; Krekeler, Tobias; Ritter, Martin; Weller, Horst; Abetz, Volker

2017-08-04

In this work the fabrication of hard, stiff and strong nanocomposites based on polybutadiene and iron oxide nanoparticles is presented. The nanocomposites are fabricated via a general concept for mechanically superior nanocomposites not based on the brick and mortar structure, thus on globular nanoparticles with nanosized organic shells. For the fabrication of the composites oleic acid functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles are decorated via ligand exchange with an α,ω-polybutadiene dicarboxylic acid. The functionalized particles were processed at 145 °C. Since polybutadiene contains double bonds the nanocomposites obtained a crosslinked structure which was enhanced by the presence of oxygen or sulfur. It was found that the crosslinking and filler percolation yields high elastic moduli of approximately 12-20 GPa and hardness of 15-18 GPa, although the polymer volume fraction is up to 40%. We attribute our results to a catalytically enhanced crosslinking reaction of the polymer chains induced by oxygen or sulfur and to the microstructure of the nanocomposite.

Surface Fractal Analysis for Estimating the Fracture Energy Absorption of Nanoparticle Reinforced Composites

PubMed Central

Pramanik, Brahmananda; Tadepalli, Tezeswi; Mantena, P. Raju

2012-01-01

In this study, the fractal dimensions of failure surfaces of vinyl ester based nanocomposites are estimated using two classical methods, Vertical Section Method (VSM) and Slit Island Method (SIM), based on the processing of 3D digital microscopic images. Self-affine fractal geometry has been observed in the experimentally obtained failure surfaces of graphite platelet reinforced nanocomposites subjected to quasi-static uniaxial tensile and low velocity punch-shear loading. Fracture energy and fracture toughness are estimated analytically from the surface fractal dimensionality. Sensitivity studies show an exponential dependency of fracture energy and fracture toughness on the fractal dimensionality. Contribution of fracture energy to the total energy absorption of these nanoparticle reinforced composites is demonstrated. For the graphite platelet reinforced nanocomposites investigated, surface fractal analysis has depicted the probable ductile or brittle fracture propagation mechanism, depending upon the rate of loading. PMID:28817017

Versatile Methodology to Encapsulate Gold Nanoparticles in PLGA Nanoparticles Obtained by Nano-Emulsion Templating.

PubMed

Fornaguera, Cristina; Feiner-Gracia, Natàlia; Dols-Perez, Aurora; García-Celma, Maria José; Solans, Conxita

2017-05-01

Gold nanoparticles have been proved useful for many biomedical applications, specifically, for their use as advanced imaging systems. However, they usually present problems related with stability and toxicity. In the present work, gold-nanoparticles have been encapsulated in polymeric nanoparticles using a novel methodology based on nano-emulsion templating. Firstly, gold nanoparticles have been transferred from water to ethyl acetate, a solvent classified as class III by the NIH guidelines (low toxic potential). Next, the formation of nano-emulsions loaded with gold nanoparticles has been performed using a low-energy, the phase inversion composition (PIC) emulsification method, followed by solvent evaporation giving rise to polymeric nanoparticles. Using this methodology, high concentrations of gold nanoparticles (>100 pM) have been encapsulated. Increasing gold nanoparticle concentration, nano-emulsion and nanoparticle sizes increase, resulting in a decrease on the stability. It is noteworthy that the designed nanoparticles did not produce cytotoxicity neither hemolysis at the required concentration. Therefore, it can be concluded that a novel and very versatile methodology has been developed for the production of polymeric nanoparticles loaded with gold nanoparticles. Graphical Abstract Schematic representation of AuNP-loaded polymeric nanoparticles preparation from nano-emulsion templating.

Lipid-based nanoparticles for contrast-enhanced MRI and molecular imaging.

PubMed

Mulder, Willem J M; Strijkers, Gustav J; van Tilborg, Geralda A F; Griffioen, Arjan W; Nicolay, Klaas

2006-02-01

In the field of MR imaging and especially in the emerging field of cellular and molecular MR imaging, flexible strategies to synthesize contrast agents that can be manipulated in terms of size and composition and that can be easily conjugated with targeting ligands are required. Furthermore, the relaxivity of the contrast agents, especially for molecular imaging applications, should be very high to deal with the low sensitivity of MRI. Lipid-based nanoparticles, such as liposomes or micelles, have been used extensively in recent decades as drug carrier vehicles. A relatively new and promising application of lipidic nanoparticles is their use as multimodal MR contrast agents. Lipids are amphiphilic molecules with both a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic part, which spontaneously assemble into aggregates in an aqueous environment. In these aggregates, the amphiphiles are arranged such that the hydrophobic parts cluster together and the hydrophilic parts face the water. In the low concentration regime, a wide variety of structures can be formed, ranging from spherical micelles to disks or liposomes. Furthermore, a monolayer of lipids can serve as a shell to enclose a hydrophobic core. Hydrophobic iron oxide particles, quantum dots or perfluorocarbon emulsions can be solubilized using this approach. MR-detectable and fluorescent amphiphilic molecules can easily be incorporated in lipidic nanoparticles. Furthermore, targeting ligands can be conjugated to lipidic particles by incorporating lipids with a functional moiety to allow a specific interaction with molecular markers and to achieve accumulation of the particles at disease sites. In this review, an overview of different lipidic nanoparticles for use in MRI is given, with the main emphasis on Gd-based contrast agents. The mechanisms of particle formation, conjugation strategies and applications in the field of contrast-enhanced, cellular and molecular MRI are discussed. 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Optical characterization of composite layers prepared by plasma polymerization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radeva, E.; Hikov, T.; Mitev, D.; Stroescu, H.; Nicolescu, M.; Gartner, M.; Presker, R.; Pramatarova, L.

2016-02-01

Thin composite layers from polymer/nanoparticles (Ag-nanoparticles and detonation nanodiamonds) were prepared by plasma polymerization process on the base of hexamethyldisiloxane. The variation of the layer composition was achieved by changing the type of nanoparticles. The optical measurement techniques used were UV-VIS-NIR ellipsometry (SE), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The values of the refractive index determined are in the range 1.30 to 1.42. All samples are transparent with transmission between 85-95% and very smooth. The change in Raman and FTIR spectra of the composites verify the expected bonding between polymer and diamond nanoparticles due to the penetration of the fillers in the polymer matrix. The comparison of the spectra of the corresponding NH3 plasma treated composites revealed that the composite surface becomes more hydrophilic. The obtained results indicate that preparation of layers with desired compositions is possible at a precise control of the detonation nanodiamond materials.

Structure and properties of composite films formed by cellulose nanocrystals and charged latex nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thérien-Aubin, Héloïse; Lukach, Ariella; Pitch, Natalie; Kumacheva, Eugenia

2015-04-01

We report the structural and optical properties of composite films formed from mixed suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and fluorescent latex nanoparticles (NPs). We explored the effect of NP concentration, size, surface charge, glass transition temperature and film processing conditions on film structure and properties. The chiral nematic order, typical of CNC films, was preserved in films with up to 50 wt% of negatively-charged latex NPs. Composite films were characterized by macroscopically close-to-uniform fluorescence, birefringence, and circular dichroism properties. In contrast, addition of positively charged latex NPs led to gelation of CNC-latex suspensions and disruption of the chiral nematic order in the composite films. Large latex NPs disrupted the chiral nematic order to a larger extend than small NPs. Furthermore, the glass transition of latex NPs had a dramatic effect on the structure of CNC-latex films. Latex particles in the rubbery state were easily incorporated in the ordered CNC matrix and improved the structural integrity of its chiral nematic phase.We report the structural and optical properties of composite films formed from mixed suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and fluorescent latex nanoparticles (NPs). We explored the effect of NP concentration, size, surface charge, glass transition temperature and film processing conditions on film structure and properties. The chiral nematic order, typical of CNC films, was preserved in films with up to 50 wt% of negatively-charged latex NPs. Composite films were characterized by macroscopically close-to-uniform fluorescence, birefringence, and circular dichroism properties. In contrast, addition of positively charged latex NPs led to gelation of CNC-latex suspensions and disruption of the chiral nematic order in the composite films. Large latex NPs disrupted the chiral nematic order to a larger extend than small NPs. Furthermore, the glass transition of latex NPs had a dramatic

CdS nanoparticles/CeO2 nanorods composite with high-efficiency visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

You, Daotong; Pan, Bao; Jiang, Fan; Zhou, Yangen; Su, Wenyue

2016-02-01

Different mole ratios of CdS nanoparticles (NPs)/CeO2 nanorods (NRs) composites with effective contacts were synthesized through a two-step hydrothermal method. The crystal phase, microstructure, optical absorption properties, electrochemical properties and photocatalytic H2 production activity of these composites were investigated. It was concluded that the photogenerated charge carriers in the CdS NPs/CeO2 NRs composite with a proper mole ratio (1:1) exhibited the longest lifetime and highest separation efficiency, which was responsible for the highest H2-production rate of 8.4 mmol h-1 g-1 under visible-light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). The superior photocatalytic H2 evolution properties are attributed to the transfer of visible-excited electrons of CdS NPs to CeO2 NRs, which can effectively extend the light absorption range of wide-band gap CeO2 NRs. This work provides feasible routes to develop visible-light responsive CeO2-based nanomaterial for efficient solar utilization.

A Disposable Organophosphorus Pesticides Enzyme Biosensor Based on Magnetic Composite Nano-Particles Modified Screen Printed Carbon Electrode

PubMed Central

Gan, Ning; Yang, Xin; Xie, Donghua; Wu, Yuanzhao; Wen, Weigang

2010-01-01

A disposable organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) enzyme biosensor based on magnetic composite nanoparticle-modified screen printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) has been developed. Firstly, an acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-coated Fe3O4/Au (GMP) magnetic nanoparticulate (GMP-AChE) was synthesized. Then, GMP-AChE was absorbed on the surface of a SPCE modified by carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/nano-ZrO2/prussian blue (PB)/Nafion (Nf) composite membrane by an external magnetic field. Thus, the biosensor (SPCE│CNTs/ZrO2/PB/Nf│GMP-AChE) for OPs was fabricated. The surface of the biosensor was characterized by scanning electron micrography (SEM) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometery (XRFS) and its electrochemical properties were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The degree of inhibition (A%) of the AChE by OPs was determined by measuring the reduction current of the PB generated by the AChE-catalyzed hydrolysis of acetylthiocholine (ATCh). In pH = 7.5 KNO3 solution, the A was related linearly to the concentration of dimethoate in the range from 1.0 × 10−3–10 ng·mL−1 with a detection limit of 5.6 × 10−4 ng·mL−1. The recovery rates in Chinese cabbage exhibited a range of 88%–105%. The results were consistent with the standard gas chromatography (GC) method. Compared with other enzyme biosensors the proposed biosensor exhibited high sensitivity, good selectivity with disposable, low consumption of sample. In particular its surface can be easily renewed by removal of the magnet. The convenient, fast and sensitive voltammetric measurement opens new opportunities for OPs analysis. PMID:22315558

Structural characterization of multimetallic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukundan, Vineetha

Bimetallic and trimetallic alloy nanoparticles have enhanced catalytic activities due to their unique structural properties. Using in situ time-resolved synchrotron based x-ray diffraction, we investigated the structural properties of nanoscale catalysts undergoing various heat treatments. Thermal treatment brings about changes in particle size, morphology, dispersion of metals on support, alloying, surface electronic properties, etc. First, the mechanisms of coalescence and grain growth in PtNiCo nanoparticles supported on planar silica on silicon were examined in detail in the temperature range 400-900°C. The sintering process in PtNiCo nanoparticles was found to be accompanied by lattice contraction and L10 chemical ordering. The mass transport involved in sintering is attributed to grain boundary diffusion and its corresponding activation energy is estimated from the data analysis. Nanoscale alloying and phase transformations in physical mixtures of Pd and Cu ultrafine nanoparticles were also investigated in real time with in situ synchrotron based x-ray diffraction complemented by ex situ high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. PdCu nanoparticles are interesting because they are found to be more efficient as catalysts in ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) than monometallic Pd catalysts. The combination of metal support interaction and reactive/non-reactive environment was found to determine the thermal evolution and ultimate structure of this binary system. The composition of the as prepared Pd:Cu mixture in this study was 34% Pd and 66% Cu. At 300°C, the nanoparticles supported on silica and carbon black intermix to form a chemically ordered CsCl-type (B2) alloy phase. The B2 phase transforms into a disordered fcc alloy at higher temperature (>450°C). The alloy nanoparticles supported on silica and carbon black are homogeneous in volume, but evidence was found of Pd surface enrichment. In sharp contrast, when supported on alumina, the two metals

Polymeric nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Bolhassani, Azam; Javanzad, Shabnam; Saleh, Tayebeh; Hashemi, Mehrdad; Aghasadeghi, Mohammad Reza; Sadat, Seyed Mehdi

2014-01-01

Nanocarriers with various compositions and biological properties have been extensively applied for in vitro/in vivo drug and gene delivery. The family of nanocarriers includes polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-based carriers (liposomes/micelles), dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, and gold nanoparticles (nanoshells/nanocages). Among different delivery systems, polymeric carriers have several properties such as: easy to synthesize, inexpensive, biocompatible, biodegradable, non-immunogenic, non-toxic, and water soluble. In addition, cationic polymers seem to produce more stable complexes led to a more protection during cellular trafficking than cationic lipids. Nanoparticles often show significant adjuvant effects in vaccine delivery since they may be easily taken up by antigen presenting cells (APCs). Natural polymers such as polysaccharides and synthetic polymers have demonstrated great potential to form vaccine nanoparticles. The development of new adjuvants or delivery systems for DNA and protein immunization is an expanding research field. This review describes polymeric carriers especially PLGA, chitosan, and PEI as vaccine delivery systems. PMID:24128651

Synthesis, Structure, Stability and Redispersion of Gold-based Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiruvalam, Ram Chandra

Nanoscale gold has been shown to possess an intriguing combination of unexpected optical, photochemical and catalytic properties. The ability to control the size, shape, morphology, composition and dispersion of gold-based nanostructures is key to optimizing their performance for nanotechnology applications. The advanced electron microscopy studies described in this thesis analyze three important aspects of gold and gold-palladium alloy nanoparticles: namely, (i) the ability to synthesize gold nanoparticles of controlled size and shape in an aqueous medium; (ii) the colloidal preparation of designer gold-palladium alloys for selective oxidation catalysis; and (iii) the ability to disperse gold as finely and homogeneously as possible on a metal oxide or carbon support. The ability to exploit the nanoscale properties of gold for various engineering applications often depends on our ability to control size and shape of the nanoscale entity by careful manipulation of the synthesis parameters. We have explored an aqueous based synthesis route, using oleylamine as both a reductant and surfactant, for preparing gold nanostructures. By systematically varying synthesis parameters such as oleylamine concentration, reaction temperature, and aging time it is possible to identify processing regimens that generate Au nanostructures having either pseudo-spherical, faceted polyhedral, nanostar or wire shaped morphologies. Furthermore, by quenching the reaction partway through it is possible to create a class of metastable Au-containing structures such as nanocubes, nanoboxes and nanowires. Possible formation mechanisms for these gold based nano-objects are discussed. There is a growing interest in using supported bimetallic AuPd alloy nanoparticles for selective oxidation reactions. In this study, a systematic series of size controlled AuPd bimetallic particles have been prepared by colloidal synthesis methods. Particles having random alloy structures, as well as `designer

Scratch-resistant, highly conductive, and high-strength carbon nanotube-based composite yarns.

PubMed

Liu, Kai; Sun, Yinghui; Lin, Xiaoyang; Zhou, Ruifeng; Wang, Jiaping; Fan, Shoushan; Jiang, Kaili

2010-10-26

High-strength and conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns are very attractive in many potential applications. However, there is a difficulty when simultaneously enhancing the strength and conductivity of CNT yarns. Adding some polymers into CNT yarns to enhance their strength will decrease their conductivity, while treating them in acid or coating them with metal nanoparticles to enhance their conductivity will reduce their strength. To overcome this difficulty, here we report a method to make high-strength and highly conductive CNT-based composite yarns by using a continuous superaligned CNT (SACNT) yarn as a conductive framework and then inserting polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into the intertube spaces of the framework through PVA/dimethyl sulphoxide solution to enhance the strength of yarns. The as-produced CNT/PVA composite yarns possess very high tensile strengths up to 2.0 GPa and Young's moduli more than 120 GPa, much higher than those of the CNT/PVA yarns reported. The electric conductivity of as-produced composite yarns is as high as 9.2 × 10(4) S/m, comparable to HNO(3)-treated or Au nanoparticle-coated CNT yarns. These composite yarns are flexible, lightweight, scratch-resistant, very stable in the lab environment, and resistant to extremely humid ambient and as a result can be woven into high-strength and heatable fabrics, showing potential applications in flexible heaters, bullet-proof vests, radiation protection suits, and spacesuits.

In-situ formation of nanoparticles within a silicon-based matrix

DOEpatents

Thoma, Steven G [Albuquerque, NM; Wilcoxon, Jess P [Albuquerque, NM; Abrams, Billie L [Albuquerque, NM

2008-06-10

A method for encapsulating nanoparticles with an encapsulating matrix that minimizes aggregation and maintains favorable properties of the nanoparticles. The matrix comprises silicon-based network-forming compounds such as ormosils and polysiloxanes. The nanoparticles are synthesized from precursors directly within the silicon-based matrix.

Analysis of Particle Distribution in Milled Al-Based Composites Reinforced by B4C Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alihosseini, Hamid; Dehghani, Kamran

2017-04-01

In the present work, high-energy ball milling was employed to synthesize Al-(5-10 wt.%)B4C nanocomposite. To do this, two sizes of particles of 50 nm as nanoparticles (NPs) and 50 μm as coarse particles (CPs) were used. The morphology and microstructure of the milled powders were characterized using particle size analyzer, SEM, TEM and EDX techniques. It was found that milling time, B4C particles size and their content strongly affect the characteristics of powders during milling process. The breaking and cold welding of powders was recognized as two main competitive actions during the milling process that influence the microstructural evolutions. It was found that the presence of CPs led to the formation of microcracks which promote the fracture process of Al powders. The dominated mechanisms during the fabrication of composites and nanocomposites were discussed. Also, the theoretical issues regarding the changes in morphology and distribution of B4C particles in CPs and NPs are clarified.

Recent advancements in nanoparticle based drug delivery for gastrointestinal disorders.

PubMed

Mittal, Rahul; Patel, Amit P; Jhaveri, Vasanti M; Kay, Sae-In S; Debs, Luca H; Parrish, James M; Pan, Debbie R; Nguyen, Desiree; Mittal, Jeenu; Jayant, Rahul Dev

2018-03-01

The emergent field of nanoparticles has presented a wealth of opportunities for improving the treatment of human diseases. Recent advances have allowed for promising developments in drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Modified delivery systems allow improved drug delivery over traditional pH, microbe, or receptor dependent models, while antibody association allows for more advanced imaging modalities. Nanoparticles have potential clinical application in the field of gastroenterology as they offer several advantages compared to the conventional treatment systems including target drug delivery, enhanced treatment efficacy, and reduced side effects. Areas covered: The aim of this review article is to summarize the recent advancements in developing nanoparticle technologies to treat gastrointestinal diseases. We have covered the application of nanoparticles in various gastrointestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. We also have discussed how the gut microbiota affects the nanoparticle based drug delivery in the gastrointestinal tract. Expert opinion: Nanoparticles based drug delivery offers a great platform for targeted drug delivery for gastrointestinal disorders. However, it is influenced by the presence of microbiota, drug interaction with nanoparticles, and cytotoxicity of nanoparticles. With the advancements in nanoparticle technology, it may be possible to overcome these barriers leading to efficient drug delivery for gastrointestinal disorders based on nanoparticle platform.

Tuning the dielectric properties of metallic-nanoparticle/elastomer composites by strain.

PubMed

Gaiser, Patrick; Binz, Jonas; Gompf, Bruno; Berrier, Audrey; Dressel, Martin

2015-03-14

Tunable metal/dielectric composites are promising candidates for a large number of potential applications in electronics, sensor technologies and optical devices. Here we systematically investigate the dielectric properties of Ag-nanoparticles embedded in the highly flexible elastomer poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS). As tuning parameter we use uniaxial and biaxial strain applied to the composite. We demonstrate that both static variations of the filling factor and applied strain lead to the same behavior, i.e., the filling factor of the composite can be tuned by application of strain. In this way the effective static permittivity εeff of the composite can be varied over a very large range. Once the Poisson's ratio of the composite is known, the strain dependent dielectric constant can be accurately described by effective medium theory without any additional free fit parameter up to metal filling factors close to the percolation threshold. It is demonstrated that, starting above the percolation threshold in the metallic phase, applying strain provides the possibility to cross the percolation threshold into the insulating region. The change of regime from conductive phase down to insulating follows the description given by percolation theory and can be actively controlled.

Composite fluorescent nanoparticles for biomedical imaging.

PubMed

Pansare, Vikram J; Bruzek, Matthew J; Adamson, Douglas H; Anthony, John; Prud'homme, Robert K

2014-04-01

In the rapidly expanding field of biomedical imaging, there is a need for nontoxic, photostable, and nonquenching fluorophores for fluorescent imaging. We have successfully encapsulated a new, extremely hydrophobic, pentacene-based fluorescent dye within polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) or nanocarriers (NCs) via the Flash NanoPrecipitation (FNP) process. Nanoparticles and dye-loaded micelles were formulated by FNP and characterized by dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-VIS absorbance spectroscopy, and confocal microscopy. These fluorescent particles were loaded from less than 1% to 78% by weight core loading and the fluorescence maximum was found to be at 2.3 wt.%. The particles were also stably formed at 2.3% core loading from 20 up to 250 nm in diameter with per-particle fluorescence scaling linearly with the NC core volume. The major absorption peaks are at 458, 575, and 625 nm, and the major emission peaks at 635 and 695 nm. In solution, the Et-TP5 dye displays a strong concentration-dependent ratio of the emission intensities of the first two emission peaks, whereas in the nanoparticle core the spectrum is independent of concentration over the entire concentration range. A model of the fluorescence quenching was consistent with Förster resonant energy transfer as the cause of the quenching observed for Et-TP5. The Förster radius calculated from the absorption and emission spectra of Et-TP5 is 4.1 nm, whereas the average dye spacing in the particles at the maximum fluorescence is 3.9 nm. We have successfully encapsulated Et-TP5, a pentacene derivative dye previously only used in light-emitting diode applications, within NCs via the FNP process. The extreme hydrophobicity of the dye keeps it encapsulated in the NC core, its extended pentacene structure gives it relatively long wavelength emission at 695 nm, and the pentacene structure, without oxygen or nitrogen atoms in its core, makes it highly resistant to photobleaching. Its bulky side

Multifunctional platinum-based nanoparticles for biomedical applications.

PubMed

Cheng, Qinqin; Liu, Yangzhong

2017-03-01

Platinum-based anticancer drugs play a central role in current cancer therapy. However, their applicability and efficacy are limited by drug resistance and adverse effects. Nanocarrier-based platinum drug delivery systems are promising alternatives to circumvent the disadvantages of bare platinum drugs. The various properties of nanoparticle chemistry allow for the trend toward multiple functionality. Nanoparticles preferentially accumulate at the tumor site through passive targeting, and the attachment of tumor targeting moieties further enhances their tumor-specific localization as well as tumor cell uptake. The introduction of stimuli-responsive groups into drug delivery systems can further achieve spatially and temporally controlled drug release in response to specific stimuli. Combination therapy strategies have been used to promote synergetic efficacy and overcome the resistance of platinum drugs. The tumor-localized drug delivery strategies exhibit benefits for preventing local tumor recurrence. In addition, the combination of platinum drugs and imaging agents in one unity allows the cancer diagnostics for real-time monitoring the distribution of drug-loaded nanoparticles inside the body and tumor. This review discusses recent scientific advances in multifunctional nanoparticle formulations of platinum drugs, and these designs exhibit new potential of multifunctional nanoparticles for delivering platinum-based anticancer drugs. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2017, 9:e1410. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1410 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Fluorescent/magnetic micro/nano-spheres based on quantum dots and/or magnetic nanoparticles: preparation, properties, and their applications in cancer studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Cong-Ying; Xie, Hai-Yan; Zhang, Zhi-Ling; Wu, Ling-Ling; Hu, Jiao; Tang, Man; Wu, Min; Pang, Dai-Wen

2016-06-01

The study of cancer is of great significance to human survival and development, due to the fact that cancer has become one of the greatest threats to human health. In recent years, the rapid progress of nanoscience and nanotechnology has brought new and bright opportunities to this field. In particular, the applications of quantum dots (QDs) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have greatly promoted early diagnosis and effective therapy of cancer. In this review, we focus on fluorescent/magnetic micro/nano-spheres based on QDs and/or MNPs (we may call them ``nanoparticle-sphere (NP-sphere) composites'') from their preparation to their bio-application in cancer research. Firstly, we outline and compare the main four kinds of methods for fabricating NP-sphere composites, including their design principles, operation processes, and characteristics (merits and limitations). The NP-sphere composites successfully inherit the unique fluorescence or magnetic properties of QDs or MNPs. Moreover, compared with the nanoparticles (NPs) alone, the NP-sphere composites show superior properties, which are also discussed in this review. Then, we summarize their recent applications in cancer research from three aspects, that is: separation and enrichment of target tumor cells or biomarkers; cancer diagnosis mainly through medical imaging or tumor biomarker detection; and cancer therapy via targeted drug delivery systems. Finally, we provide some perspectives on the future challenges and development trends of the NP-sphere composites.

Multistage Targeting Strategy Using Magnetic Composite Nanoparticles for Synergism of Photothermal Therapy and Chemotherapy.

PubMed

Wang, Yi; Wei, Guoqing; Zhang, Xiaobin; Huang, Xuehui; Zhao, Jingya; Guo, Xing; Zhou, Shaobing

2018-03-01

Mitochondrial-targeting therapy is an emerging strategy for enhanced cancer treatment. In the present study, a multistage targeting strategy using doxorubicin-loaded magnetic composite nanoparticles is developed for enhanced efficacy of photothermal and chemical therapy. The nanoparticles with a core-shell-SS-shell architecture are composed of a core of Fe 3 O 4 colloidal nanocrystal clusters, an inner shell of polydopamine (PDA) functionalized with triphenylphosphonium (TPP), and an outer shell of methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) linked to the PDA by disulfide bonds. The magnetic core can increase the accumulation of nanoparticles at the tumor site for the first stage of tumor tissue targeting. After the nanoparticles enter the tumor cells, the second stage of mitochondrial targeting is realized as the mPEG shell is detached from the nanoparticles by redox responsiveness to expose the TPP. Using near-infrared light irradiation at the tumor site, a photothermal effect is generated from the PDA photosensitizer, leading to a dramatic decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. Simultaneously, the loaded doxorubicin can rapidly enter the mitochondria and subsequently damage the mitochondrial DNA, resulting in cell apoptosis. Thus, the synergism of photothermal therapy and chemotherapy targeting the mitochondria significantly enhances the cancer treatment. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Osteoconductive composite graft based on bacterial synthesized hydroxyapatite nanoparticles doped with different ions: From synthesis to in vivo studies.

PubMed

Ahmadzadeh, Elham; Talebnia, Farid; Tabatabaei, Meisam; Ahmadzadeh, Hossein; Mostaghaci, Babak

2016-07-01

To repair damaged bone tissues, osteoconductive bone graft substitutes are required for enhancement of the regenerative potential of osteoblast cells. Nanostructured hydroxyapatite is a bioactive ceramic used for bone tissue engineering purposes. In this study, carbonate hydroxyapatite (cHA) and zinc-magnesium substituted hydroxyapatite (Zn-Mg-HA) nanoparticles were synthesized via biomineralization method using Enterobacter aerogenes. The structural phase composition and the morphology of the samples were analyzed using appropriate powder characterization methods. Next, a composite graft was fabricated by using polyvinyl alcohol and both cHA and Zn-Mg-HA samples. In vivo osteogenic potential of the graft was then investigated in a rabbit tibial osteotomy model. Histological, radiological and morphological studies showed that the graft was mineralized by the newly formed bone tissue without signs of inflammation or infection after 4 weeks of implantation. These histomorphometric results suggest that the fabricated graft can function as a potent osteoconductive bone tissue substitute. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Protamine-based nanoparticles as new antigen delivery systems.

PubMed

González-Aramundiz, José Vicente; Peleteiro Olmedo, Mercedes; González-Fernández, África; Alonso Fernández, María José; Csaba, Noemi Stefánia

2015-11-01

The use of biodegradable nanoparticles as antigen delivery vehicles is an attractive approach to overcome the problems associated with the use of Alum-based classical adjuvants. Herein we report, the design and development of protamine-based nanoparticles as novel antigen delivery systems, using recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen as a model viral antigen. The nanoparticles, composed of protamine and a polysaccharide (hyaluronic acid or alginate), were obtained using a mild ionic cross-linking technique. The size and surface charge of the nanoparticles could be modulated by adjusting the ratio of the components. Prototypes with optimal physicochemical characteristics and satisfactory colloidal stability were selected for the assessment of their antigen loading capacity, antigen stability during storage and in vitro and in vivo proof-of-concept studies. In vitro studies showed that antigen-loaded nanoparticles induced the secretion of cytokines by macrophages more efficiently than the antigen in solution, thus indicating a potential adjuvant effect of the nanoparticles. Finally, in vivo studies showed the capacity of these systems to trigger efficient immune responses against the hepatitis B antigen following intramuscular administration, suggesting the potential interest of protamine-polysaccharide nanoparticles as antigen delivery systems. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanotechnology strategies for antibacterial and remineralizing composites and adhesives to tackle dental caries.

PubMed

Cheng, Lei; Zhang, Ke; Weir, Michael D; Melo, Mary Anne S; Zhou, Xuedong; Xu, Hockin H K

2015-03-01

Dental caries is the most widespread disease and an economic burden. Nanotechnology is promising to inhibit caries by controlling biofilm acids and enhancing remineralization. Nanoparticles of silver were incorporated into composites/adhesives, along with quaternary ammonium methacrylates (QAMs), to combat biofilms. Nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) released calcium/phosphate ions, remineralized tooth-lesions and neutralized acids. By combining nanoparticles of silver/QAM/NACP, a new class of composites and adhesives with antibacterial and remineralization double benefits was developed. Various other nanoparticles including metal and oxide nanoparticles such as ZnO and TiO2, as well as polyethylenimine nanoparticles and their antibacterial capabilities in dental resins were also reviewed. These nanoparticles are promising for incorporation into dental composites/cements/sealants/bases/liners/adhesives. Therefore, nanotechnology has potential to significantly improve restorative and preventive dentistry.

Determination of the size and phase composition of silver nanoparticles in a gel film of bacterial cellulose by small-angle X-ray scattering, electron diffraction, and electron microscopy

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

Volkov, V. V.; Klechkovskaya, V. V., E-mail: klechvv@ns.crys.ras.ru; Shtykova, E. V.

2009-03-15

The nanoscale structural features in a composite (gel film of Acetobacter Xylinum cellulose with adsorbed silver nanoparticles, stabilized by N-polyvinylpyrrolidone) have been investigated by small-angle X-ray scattering. The size distributions of inhomogeneities in the porous structure of the cellulose matrix and the size distributions of silver nanoparticles in the composite have been determined. It is shown that the sizes of synthesized nanoparticles correlate with the sizes of inhomogeneities in the gel film. Particles of larger size (with radii up to 100 nm) have also been found. Electron microscopy of thin cross sections of a dried composite layer showed that largemore » particles are located on the cellulose layer surface. Electron diffraction revealed a crystal structure of silver nanoparticles in the composite.« less

Assessment of Carbon- and Metal-Based Nanoparticle DNA Damage with Microfluidic Electrophoretic Separation Technology.

PubMed

Schrand, Amanda M; Powell, Thomas; Robertson, Tiffany; Hussain, Saber M

2015-02-01

In this study, we examined the feasibility of extracting DNA from whole cell lysates exposed to nanoparticles using two different methodologies for evaluation of fragmentation with microfluidic electrophoretic separation. Human lung macrophages were exposed to five different carbon- and metal-based nanoparticles at two different time points (2 h, 24 h) and two different doses (5 µg/ml, 100 µg/ml). The primary difference in the banding patterns after 2 h of nanoparticle exposure is more DNA fragmentation at the higher NP concentration when examining cells exposed to nanoparticles of the same composition. However, higher doses of carbon and silver nanoparticles at both short and long dosing periods can contribute to erroneous or incomplete data with this technique. Also comparing DNA isolation methodologies, we recommend the centrifugation extraction technique, which provides more consistent banding patterns in the control samples compared to the spooling technique. Here we demonstrate that multi-walled carbon nanotubes, 15 nm silver nanoparticles and the positive control cadmium oxide cause similar DNA fragmentation at the short time point of 2 h with the centrifugation extraction technique. Therefore, the results of these studies contribute to elucidating the relationship between nanoparticle physicochemical properties and DNA fragmentation results while providing the pros and cons of altering the DNA isolation methodology. Overall, this technique provides a high throughput way to analyze subcellular alterations in DNA profiles of cells exposed to nanomaterials to aid in understanding the consequences of exposure and mechanistic effects. Future studies in microfluidic electrophoretic separation technologies should be investigated to determine the utility of protein or other assays applicable to cellular systems exposed to nanoparticles.

Quantification of nanoparticle endocytosis based on double fluorescent pH-sensitive nanoparticles.

PubMed

Kurtz-Chalot, Andréa; Klein, Jean-Philippe; Pourchez, Jérémie; Boudard, Delphine; Bin, Valérie; Sabido, Odile; Marmuse, Laurence; Cottier, Michèle; Forest, Valérie

2015-04-01

Amorphous silica is a particularly interesting material because of its inertness and chemical stability. Silica nanoparticles have been recently developed for biomedical purposes but their innocuousness must be carefully investigated before clinical use. The relationship between nanoparticles physicochemical features, their uptake by cells and their biological activity represents a crucial issue, especially for the development of nanomedicine. This work aimed at adapting a method for the quantification of nanoparticle endocytosis based on pH-sensitive and double fluorescent particles. For that purpose, silica nanoparticles containing two fluorophores: FITC and pHrodo(TM) were developed, their respective fluorescence emission depends on the external pH. Indeed, FITC emits a green fluorescence at physiological pH and pHrodo(TM) emits a red fluorescence which intensity increased with acidification. Therefore, nanoparticles remained outside the cells could be clearly distinguished from nanoparticles uptaken by cells as these latter could be spotted inside cellular acidic compartments (such as phagolysosomes, micropinosomes…). Using this model, the endocytosis of 60 nm nanoparticles incubated with the RAW 264.7 macrophages was quantified using time-lapse microscopy and compared to that of 130 nm submicronic particles. The amount of internalized particles was also evaluated by fluorimetry. The biological impact of the particles was also investigated in terms of cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory response and oxidative stress. Results clearly demonstrated that nanoparticles were more uptaken and more reactive than submicronic particles. Moreover, we validated a method of endocytosis quantification.

Graphene oxide-gadolinium (III) oxide nanoparticle composite: a novel MR contrast agent with high longitudinal and transverse relaxivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkatesha, N.; Poojar, Pavan; Geethanath, Sairam; Srivastava, Chandan

2014-12-01

Production of bio-compatible contrast agent materials to enhance the sensitivity of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique is a highly active area in MRI related research. This work illustrates the potential of a new material: graphene oxide-gadolinium (III) oxide nanoparticle (GO-Gd2O3) composite in yielding both transverse (16.3 mM-1 s-1) and longitudinal relaxivity (40 mM-1 s-1) values which are significantly higher than the proton relaxivity values achieved using the gadolinium based contrast agents currently used in MRI. Such high proton relaxivity values can facilitate low dosage of GO-Gd2O3 composite for obtaining both T1 and T2 weighted high signal-to-noise ratio images in MRI.

Composite anode for lithium ion batteries

DOEpatents

de Guzman, Rhet C.; Ng, K.Y. Simon; Salley, Steven O.

2018-03-06

A composite anode for a lithium-ion battery is manufactured from silicon nanoparticles having diameters mostly under 10 nm; providing an oxide layer on the silicon nanoparticles; dispersing the silicon nanoparticles in a polar liquid; providing a graphene oxide suspension; mixing the polar liquid containing the dispersed silicone nanoparticles with the graphene oxide suspension to obtain a composite mixture; probe-sonicating the mixture for a predetermined time; filtering the composite mixture to obtain a solid composite; drying the composite; and reducing the composite to obtain graphene and silicon.

Plasma Methods of Obtainment of Multifunctional Composite Materials, Dispersion-Hardened by Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sizonenko, O. N.; Grigoryev, E. G.; Pristash, N. S.; Zaichenko, A. D.; Torpakov, A. S.; Lypian, Ye. V.; Tregub, V. A.; Zholnin, A. G.; Yudin, A. V.; Kovalenko, A. A.

2017-09-01

High voltage electric discharge (HVED) in disperse system "hydrocarbon liquid - powder" due to impact of plasma discharge channel, electromagnetic fields, shock waves mechanical impact, hydro flows and volume microcavitation leads to synthesis of nanocarbon, metal powders dispersion and synthesis of micro- (from 10-6 to 10-7 m) and nanosized (from 10-7 to 10-9 m) composite powders of hardening phases. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) of powder mixtures allows targeted control of grain growth rate and thus allows obtainment of multifunctional composite materials dispersion hardened by nanoparticles. Processes of HVED synthesis of micro- and nanosized powders of new compositions from elemental metal powders and their mixtures with the subsequent application of high-speed SPS of obtained powders create conditions for increase of strength (by 10-20 %), hardness and wear-resistance (by 30-60 %) of obtained materials.

Facile synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles decorated graphene oxide composite via simple solvothermal route and their photocatalytic activity on methylene blue degradation.

PubMed

Atchudan, Raji; Edison, Thomas Nesakumar Jebakumar Immanuel; Perumal, Suguna; Karthikeyan, Dhanapalan; Lee, Yong Rok

2016-09-01

Zinc oxide nanoparticles decorated graphene oxide (ZnO@GO) composite was synthesized by simple solvothermal method where zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles and graphene oxide (GO) were synthesized via simple thermal oxidation and Hummers method, respectively. The obtained materials were thoroughly characterized by various physico-chemical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectrum shows the intensity of D to G value was close to one which confirms the obtained GO and ZnO@GO composite possesses moderate graphitization. TEM images shows the ZnO nanoparticles mean size of 15±5nm were dispersed over the wrinkled graphene layers. The photocatalytic performance of ZnO@GO composite on degradation of methylene blue (MB) is investigated and the results show that the GO plays an important role in the enhancement of photocatalytic performance. The synthesized ZnO@GO composite achieves a maximum degradation efficiency of 98.5% in a neutral solution under UV-light irradiation for 15min as compared with pure ZnO (degradation efficiency is 49% after 60min of irradiation) due to the increased light absorption, the reduced charge recombination with the introduction of GO. Moreover, the resulting ZnO@GO composite possesses excellent degradation efficiency as compared to ZnO nanoparticles alone on MB. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Carrageenan Based Bionanocomposites as Drug Delivery Tool with Special Emphasis on the Influence of Ferromagnetic Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Saba, Ain Us; Nawazish, Shamyla; Akhtar, Fahad; Rashid, Rehana; Mir, Sadullah; Nasir, Bushra; Afzal, Samina; Pervaiz, Fahad

2017-01-01

Over the past few years, considerable attention has been focused on carrageenan based bionanocomposites due to their multifaceted properties like biodegradability, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity. Moreover, these composites can be tailored according to the desired purpose by using different nanofillers. The role of ferromagnetic nanoparticles in drug delivery is also discussed here in detail. Moreover, this article also presents a short review of recent research on the different types of the carrageenan based bionanocomposites and applications. PMID:28303171

Green synthesis of high conductivity silver nanoparticle-reduced graphene oxide composite films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinh, D. A.; Hui, K. S.; Hui, K. N.; Cho, Y. R.; Zhou, Wei; Hong, Xiaoting; Chun, Ho-Hwan

2014-04-01

A green facile chemical approach to control the dimensions of Ag nanoparticles-graphene oxide (AgNPs/GO) composites was performed by the in situ ultrasonication of a mixture of AgNO3 and graphene oxide solutions with the assistance of vitamin C acting as an environmentally friendly reducing agent at room temperature. With decreasing ultrasonication time, the size of the Ag nanoparticles decreased and became uniformly distributed over the surface of the GO nanosheets. The as-prepared AgNPs/rGO composite films were then formed using a spin coating method and reduced at 500 °C under N2/H2 gas flow for 1 h. Four-point probe measurements showed that the sheet resistance of the AgNPs/rGO films decreased with decreasing AgNPs size. The lowest sheet resistance of 270 Ω/sq was obtained in the film corresponding to 1 min of ultrasonication, which showed a 40 times lower resistivity than the rGO film (10.93 kΩ/sq). The formation mechanisms of the as-prepared AgNPs/rGO films are proposed. This study provides a guide to controlling the dimensions of AgNPs/rGO films, which might hold promise as advanced materials for a range of analytical applications, such as catalysis, sensors and microchips.

Ag nanoparticles agargel nanocomposites for SERS detection of cultural heritage interest pigments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amato, F.; Micciche', C.; Cannas, M.; Gelardi, F. M.; Pignataro, B.; Li Vigni, M.; Agnello, S.

2018-02-01

Agarose gel (agargel) composites with commercial and laboratory made silver nanoparticles were prepared by a wet solution method at room temperature. The gel composites were used for pigment extraction and detection by Raman spectroscopy. Red (alizarin) and violet (crystal violet) pigments deposited on paper were extracted by the composites and were investigated by micro-Raman spectroscopy. Evaluation was carried out of the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) effect induced by the silver nanoparticles embedded in the gel. A kinetic approach as a function of time was used to determine the efficiency of pigments extraction by composites deposition. A non-invasive extraction process of few minutes is demonstrated. This process induces active SERS for both used pigments. The reported results show the full exploitability of agargel silver nanoparticle composites for the extraction of pigments from paper based artworks.

Task-based exposure assessment of nanoparticles in the workplace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ham, Seunghon; Yoon, Chungsik; Lee, Euiseung; Lee, Kiyoung; Park, Donguk; Chung, Eunkyo; Kim, Pilje; Lee, Byoungcheun

2012-09-01

Although task-based sampling is, theoretically, a plausible approach to the assessment of nanoparticle exposure, few studies using this type of sampling have been published. This study characterized and compared task-based nanoparticle exposure profiles for engineered nanoparticle manufacturing workplaces (ENMW) and workplaces that generated welding fumes containing incidental nanoparticles. Two ENMW and two welding workplaces were selected for exposure assessments. Real-time devices were utilized to characterize the concentration profiles and size distributions of airborne nanoparticles. Filter-based sampling was performed to measure time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations, and off-line analysis was performed using an electron microscope. Workplace tasks were recorded by researchers to determine the concentration profiles associated with particular tasks/events. This study demonstrated that exposure profiles differ greatly in terms of concentrations and size distributions according to the task performed. The size distributions recorded during tasks were different from both those recorded during periods with no activity and from the background. The airborne concentration profiles of the nanoparticles varied according to not only the type of workplace but also the concentration metrics. The concentrations measured by surface area and the number concentrations measured by condensation particle counter, particulate matter 1.0, and TWA mass concentrations all showed a similar pattern, whereas the number concentrations measured by scanning mobility particle sizer indicated that the welding fume concentrations at one of the welding workplaces were unexpectedly higher than were those at workplaces that were engineering nanoparticles. This study suggests that a task-based exposure assessment can provide useful information regarding the exposure profiles of nanoparticles and can therefore be used as an exposure assessment tool.

Chitosan-based nanoparticles for improving immunization against hepatitis B infection.

PubMed

Prego, Cecilia; Paolicelli, Patrizia; Díaz, Belen; Vicente, Sara; Sánchez, Alejandro; González-Fernández, Africa; Alonso, María José

2010-03-19

The design of effective vaccine delivery vehicles is opening up new possibilities for making immunization more equitable, safe and efficient. In this work, we purpose polysaccharidic-based nanoparticles as delivery structures for virus-like particle antigens, using recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen (rHBsAg) as a model. Polysaccharidic-based nanoparticles were prepared using a very mild ionic gelation technique, by cross-linking the polysaccharide chitosan (CS) with a counter ion. The resulting nanoparticles could be easily isolated with a size in the nanometric range (160-200 nm) and positive surface charge (+6 to +10 mV). More importantly, CS-based nanoparticles allowed the efficient association of the antigen (>60%) while maintaining the antigenic epitope intact, as determined by ELISA and Western blot. The entrapped antigen was further released in vitro from the nanoparticles in a sustained manner without compromising its antigenicity. In addition, loaded CS-based nanoparticles were stable, and protected the associated antigen during storage, either as an aqueous suspension under different temperature conditions (+4 degrees C and -20 degrees C), or as a dried form after freeze-drying the nanoparticles. Finally, immunization studies showed the induction of important seroprotection rates after intramuscular administration of the nanoparticles, indicating their adjuvant capacity. In fact, CS-based nanoparticles were able to induce anti-HBsAg IgG levels up to 5500 mIU/ml, values 9-fold the conventional alum-adsorbed vaccine. In conclusion, we report here a polysaccharidic nanocarrier which exhibits a number of in vitro and in vivo features that make it a promising adjuvant for vaccine delivery of subunit antigens. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Visible light curing of Epon SU-8 based superparamagnetic polymer composites with random and ordered particle configurations.

PubMed

Peters, Christian; Ergeneman, Olgaç; Sotiriou, Georgios A; Choi, Hongsoo; Nelson, Bradley J; Hierold, Christofer

2015-01-14

The performance of superparamagnetic polymer composite microdevices is highly dependent on the magnetic particle content. While high loading levels are desired for many applications, the UV absorption of these nanoparticles limits the overall thickness of the fabricated microstructures and subsequently their capability of magnetic interaction. The combination of a visible-light-sensitive photoinitiator and particle self-organization is proposed to extend the exposure depth limitation in Epon SU-8 based superparamagnetic polymer composites. While superparamagnetic iron oxide particles strongly absorb i-line radiation required to cross-link the Epon SU-8 polymer matrix, we propose the utilization of H-Nu 470 photoinitiator to expand the photosensitivity of the composite toward the visible spectrum, where the dispersed nanoparticles are more transparent. The novel photoinitiator preserves the composite's superparamagnetic properties as well as a homogeneous particle distribution. As a result, particle load or resist thickness can be more than doubled while maintaining exposure time. The self-organization of ordered magnetic structures allows for an additional increase in exposure depth of up to 40%, resulting in a 2.5-fold saturation magnetization.

Specific loss power in superparamagnetic hyperthermia: nanofluid versus composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osaci, M.; Cacciola, M.

2017-01-01

Currently, the magnetic hyperthermia induced by nanoparticles is of great interest in biomedical applications. In the literature, we can find a lot of models for magnetic hyperthermia, but many of them do not give importance to a significant detail, such as the geometry of nanoparticle positions in the system. Usually, a nanofluid is treated by considering random positions of the nanoparticles, geometry that is actually characteristic to the composite nanoparticles. To assess the error which is frequently made, in this paper we propose a comparative analysis between the specific loss power (SLP) in case of a nanofluid and the SLP in case of a composite with magnetic nanoparticles. We are going to use a superparamagnetic hyperthermia model based on the improved model for calculating the Néel relaxation time in a magnetic field oblique to the nanoparticle magnetic anisotropy axes, and on the improved theoretical model LRT (linear response theory) for SLP. To generate the nanoparticle geometry in the system, we are going to apply a Monte Carlo method to a nanofluid, by minimising the interaction potentials in liquid medium and, for a composite environment, a method for generating random positions of the nanoparticles in a given volume.

Understanding nanoparticle-mediated nucleation pathways of anisotropic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laramy, Christine R.; Fong, Lam-Kiu; Jones, Matthew R.; O'Brien, Matthew N.; Schatz, George C.; Mirkin, Chad A.

2017-09-01

Several seed-mediated syntheses of low symmetry anisotropic nanoparticles yield broad product distributions with multiple defect structures. This observation challenges the role of the nanoparticle precursor as a seed for certain syntheses and suggests the possibility of alternate nucleation pathways. Herein, we report a method to probe the role of the nanoparticle precursor in anisotropic nanoparticle nucleation with compositional and structural 'labels' to track their fate. We use the synthesis of gold triangular nanoprisms (Au TPs) as a model system. We propose a mechanism in which, rather than acting as a template, the nanoparticle precursor catalyzes homogenous nucleation of Au TPs.

Si-based Nanoparticles: a biocompatibility study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivolta, I.; Lettiero, B.; Panariti, A.; D'Amato, R.; Maurice, V.; Falconieri, M.; Herlein, N.; Borsella, E.; Miserocchi, G.

2010-10-01

Exposure to silicon nanoparticles (Si-NPs) may occur in professional working conditions or for people undergoing a diagnostic screening test. Despite the fact that silicon is known as a non-toxic material, in the first case the risk is mostly related to the inhalation of nanoparticles, thus the most likely route of entry is across the lung alveolar epithelium. In the case of diagnostic imaging, nanoparticles are usually injected intravenously and Si-NPs could impact on the endothelial wall. In our study we investigated the interaction between selected Si-based NPs and an epithelial lung cell line. Our data showed that, despite the overall silicon biocompatibility, however accurate studies of the potential toxicity induced by the nanostructure and engineered surface characteristics need to be accurately investigated before Si nanoparticles can be safely used for in vivo applications as bio-imaging, cell staining and drug delivery.

Recent Advances on Inorganic Nanoparticle-Based Cancer Therapeutic Agents

PubMed Central

Wang, Fenglin; Li, Chengyao; Cheng, Jing; Yuan, Zhiqin

2016-01-01

Inorganic nanoparticles have been widely investigated as therapeutic agents for cancer treatments in biomedical fields due to their unique physical/chemical properties, versatile synthetic strategies, easy surface functionalization and excellent biocompatibility. This review focuses on the discussion of several types of inorganic nanoparticle-based cancer therapeutic agents, including gold nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, upconversion nanoparticles and mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Several cancer therapy techniques are briefly introduced at the beginning. Emphasis is placed on how these inorganic nanoparticles can provide enhanced therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatment through site-specific accumulation, targeted drug delivery and stimulated drug release, with elaborations on several examples to highlight the respective strategies adopted. Finally, a brief summary and future challenges are included. PMID:27898016

Recent Advances on Inorganic Nanoparticle-Based Cancer Therapeutic Agents.

PubMed

Wang, Fenglin; Li, Chengyao; Cheng, Jing; Yuan, Zhiqin

2016-11-25

Inorganic nanoparticles have been widely investigated as therapeutic agents for cancer treatments in biomedical fields due to their unique physical/chemical properties, versatile synthetic strategies, easy surface functionalization and excellent biocompatibility. This review focuses on the discussion of several types of inorganic nanoparticle-based cancer therapeutic agents, including gold nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, upconversion nanoparticles and mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Several cancer therapy techniques are briefly introduced at the beginning. Emphasis is placed on how these inorganic nanoparticles can provide enhanced therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatment through site-specific accumulation, targeted drug delivery and stimulated drug release, with elaborations on several examples to highlight the respective strategies adopted. Finally, a brief summary and future challenges are included.

Silver nanoparticles-coated glass frits for silicon solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yingfen; Gan, Weiping; Li, Biyuan

2016-04-01

Silver nanoparticles-coated glass frit composite powders for silicon solar cells were prepared by electroless plating. Silver colloids were used as the activating agent of glass frits. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The characterization results indicated that silver nanoparticles with the melting temperature of 838 °C were uniformly deposited on glass frit surface. The particle size of silver nanoparticles could be controlled by adjusting the [Ag(NH3)2]NO3 concentration. The as-prepared composite powders were applied in the front side metallization of silicon solar cells. Compared with those based on pure glass frits, the solar cells containing the composite powders had the denser silver electrodes and the better silver-silicon ohmic contacts. Furthermore, the photovoltaic performances of solar cells were improved after the electroless plating.

Fabrication of Well-Aligned ZnO Nanorods Using a Composite Seed Layer of ZnO Nanoparticles and Chitosan Polymer.

PubMed

Khun, Kimleang; Ibupoto, Zafar Hussain; AlSalhi, Mohamad S; Atif, Muhammad; Ansari, Anees A; Willander, Magnus

2013-09-30

In this study, by taking the advantage of both inorganic ZnO nanoparticles and the organic material chitosan as a composite seed layer, we have fabricated well-aligned ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate using the hydrothermal growth method. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by the Raman spectroscopic techniques, which showed the nanocrystalline phase of the ZnO nanoparticles. Different composites of ZnO nanoparticles and chitosan were prepared and used as a seed layer for the fabrication of well-aligned ZnO nanorods. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and infrared reflection absorption spectroscopic techniques were utilized for the structural characterization of the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate. This study has shown that the ZnO nanorods are well-aligned, uniform, and dense, exhibit the wurtzite hexagonal structure, and are perpendicularly oriented to the substrate. Moreover, the ZnO nanorods are only composed of Zn and O atoms. An optical study was also carried out for the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods, and the obtained results have shown that the fabricated ZnO nanorods exhibit good crystal quality. This study has provided a cheap fabrication method for the controlled morphology and good alignment of ZnO nanorods, which is of high demand for enhancing the working performance of optoelectronic devices.

Fabrication of Well-Aligned ZnO Nanorods Using a Composite Seed Layer of ZnO Nanoparticles and Chitosan Polymer

PubMed Central

Khun, Kimleang; Ibupoto, Zafar Hussain; AlSalhi, Mohamad S.; Atif, Muhammad; Ansari, Anees A.; Willander, Magnus

2013-01-01

In this study, by taking the advantage of both inorganic ZnO nanoparticles and the organic material chitosan as a composite seed layer, we have fabricated well-aligned ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate using the hydrothermal growth method. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by the Raman spectroscopic techniques, which showed the nanocrystalline phase of the ZnO nanoparticles. Different composites of ZnO nanoparticles and chitosan were prepared and used as a seed layer for the fabrication of well-aligned ZnO nanorods. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and infrared reflection absorption spectroscopic techniques were utilized for the structural characterization of the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate. This study has shown that the ZnO nanorods are well-aligned, uniform, and dense, exhibit the wurtzite hexagonal structure, and are perpendicularly oriented to the substrate. Moreover, the ZnO nanorods are only composed of Zn and O atoms. An optical study was also carried out for the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods, and the obtained results have shown that the fabricated ZnO nanorods exhibit good crystal quality. This study has provided a cheap fabrication method for the controlled morphology and good alignment of ZnO nanorods, which is of high demand for enhancing the working performance of optoelectronic devices. PMID:28788336

Halloysite nanotube supported Ag nanoparticles heteroarchitectures as catalysts for polymerization of alkylsilanes to superhydrophobic silanol/siloxane composite microspheres.

PubMed

Li, Cuiping; Li, Xueyuan; Duan, Xuelan; Li, Guangjie; Wang, Jiaqiang

2014-12-15

Halloysite nanotube supported Ag nanoparticles heteroarchitectures have been prepared through a very simple electroless plating method. Robust Ag nanocrystals can be reproducibly fabricated by soaking halloysite nanotubes in ethanolic solutions of AgNO3 and butylamine. By simply adjusting the molar ratio of AgNO3 and butylamine, Ag nanoparticles with tunable size and quantity on halloysite nanotube are achieved. It reveals that the Ag nanoparticles are well-dispersed on the surface of halloysite nanotubes. The halloysite nanotube supported Ag nanoparticles heteroarchitectures can serve as active catalysts for the polymerization of an alkylsilane C18H37SiH3 with water to form silanol/siloxane composite microspheres and exhibit interesting superhydrophobicity ascribed to the micro/nanobinary structure. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surface-enrichment with hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in stereolithography-fabricated composite polymer scaffolds promotes bone repair.

PubMed

Guillaume, O; Geven, M A; Sprecher, C M; Stadelmann, V A; Grijpma, D W; Tang, T T; Qin, L; Lai, Y; Alini, M; de Bruijn, J D; Yuan, H; Richards, R G; Eglin, D

2017-05-01

Fabrication of composite scaffolds using stereolithography (SLA) for bone tissue engineering has shown great promises. However, in order to trigger effective bone formation and implant integration, exogenous growth factors are commonly combined to scaffold materials. In this study, we fabricated biodegradable composite scaffolds using SLA and endowed them with osteopromotive properties in the absence of biologics. First we prepared photo-crosslinkable poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) resins containing 20 and 40wt% of hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles and fabricated scaffolds with controlled macro-architecture. Then, we conducted experiments to investigate how the incorporation of HA in photo-crosslinked PTMC matrices improved human bone marrow stem cells osteogenic differentiation in vitro and kinetic of bone healing in vivo. We observed that bone regeneration was significantly improved using composite scaffolds containing as low as 20wt% of HA, along with difference in terms of osteogenesis and degree of implant osseointegration. Further investigations revealed that SLA process was responsible for the formation of a rich microscale layer of HA corralling scaffolds. To summarize, this work is of substantial importance as it shows how the fabrication of hierarchical biomaterials via surface-enrichment of functional HA nanoparticles in composite polymer stereolithographic structures could impact in vitro and in vivo osteogenesis. This study reports for the first time the enhance osteopromotion of composite biomaterials, with controlled macro-architecture and microscale distribution of hydroxyapatite particles, manufactured by stereolithography. In this process, the hydroxyapatite particles are not only embedded into an erodible polymer matrix, as reported so far in the literature, but concentrated at the surface of the structures. This leads to robust in vivo bone formation at low concentration of hydroxyapatite. The reported 3D self-corralling composite

Fabrication and Characterizations of Ethanol Sensor Based on CuO Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Al-Hadeethi, Yas; Umar, Ahmad; Kumar, Rajesh; Al-Heniti, Saleh H; Raffah, Bahaaudin M

2018-04-01

In this paper, we report the synthesis, characterization and ethanol sensing applications of CuO nanoparticles. The CuO nanoparticles were prepared by a facile, low-temperature hydrothermal method and characterized in detail in terms of their structural, morphological, compositional and crystalline properties, through different characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) attached with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The detailed studies revealed that the synthesized CuO nanoparticles were well-crystalline and possessed monoclinic crystal structure. The synthesized CuO nanoparticles were utilized for the fabrication of highly sensitive ethanol gas sensor. At an optimized temperature of 320 °C, high sensitivity (Ra/Rg) of 39.29 was observed for 200 ppm of ethanol gas. Additionally, very low response (τres = 14 s) and recovery (τrec = 30 s) times were observed for 100 ppm of ethanol.

Synthesis and characterization of metal-dielectric composites with copper nanoparticles embedded in a glass matrix: A multitechnique approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipinska-Kalita, Kristina E.; Krol, Denise M.; Hemley, Russell J.; Mariotto, Gino; Kalita, Patricia E.; Ohki, Yoshimichi

2005-09-01

The precipitation and growth of copper nanoparticles in an optically transparent aluminosilicate glass matrix was investigated. The size of particles in this heterophase glass-based composite was modified in a controlled manner by isothermal heat treatments. A multitechnique approach, consisting of Raman scattering spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction technique, and optical absorption spectroscopy, has been used to study the nucleation and crystallization processes. Optical absorption spectroscopy revealed the presence of intense absorption bands attributed to oscillations of free electrons, known as the surface-plasmon resonance band of copper particles, and confirmed a gradual increase of the particles' mean size and density with annealing time. The Raman scattering on acoustical phonons from Cu quantum dots in the glass matrix measured for off-resonance conditions demonstrated the presence of intense, inhomogeneously broadened peaks that have been assigned to the confined acoustic eigenmodes of copper nanoparticles. The particle-size dependence of the acoustic peak energies and the relation between the size distribution and bandwidths of these peaks were derived. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy was used to monitor the nucleation of the nanoparticles and to estimate their mean size.

Flexible Textile-Based Organic Transistors Using Graphene/Ag Nanoparticle Electrode

PubMed Central

Kim, Youn; Kwon, Yeon Ju; Lee, Kang Eun; Oh, Youngseok; Um, Moon-Kwang; Seong, Dong Gi; Lee, Jea Uk

2016-01-01

Highly flexible and electrically-conductive multifunctional textiles are desirable for use in wearable electronic applications. In this study, we fabricated multifunctional textile composites by vacuum filtration and wet-transfer of graphene oxide films on a flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) textile in association with embedding Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) to improve the electrical conductivity. A flexible organic transistor can be developed by direct transfer of a dielectric/semiconducting double layer on the graphene/AgNP textile composite, where the textile composite was used as both flexible substrate and conductive gate electrode. The thermal treatment of a textile-based transistor enhanced the electrical performance (mobility = 7.2 cm2·V−1·s−1, on/off current ratio = 4 × 105, and threshold voltage = −1.1 V) due to the improvement of interfacial properties between the conductive textile electrode and the ion-gel dielectric layer. Furthermore, the textile transistors exhibited highly stable device performance under extended bending conditions (with a bending radius down to 3 mm and repeated tests over 1000 cycles). We believe that our simple methods for the fabrication of graphene/AgNP textile composite for use in textile-type transistors can potentially be applied to the development of flexible large-area electronic clothes. PMID:28335276

A composite material based on nanoparticles of yttrium (III) oxide for the selective and sensitive electrochemical determination of acetaminophen.

PubMed

Baytak, Aysegul Kutluay; Teker, Tugce; Duzmen, Sehriban; Aslanoglu, Mehmet

2016-09-01

An electrochemical sensor was prepared by modifying a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with a composite of yttrium (III) oxide nanoparticles (Y2O3NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for the determination of acetaminophen (ACT). Compared with a bare GCE and CNTs/GCE, the Y2O3NPs/CNTs/GCE exhibited a well-defined redox couple for ACT and highly enhanced the current response. The separations in the anodic and cathodic peak potentials (ΔEp) for ACT were 552mV, 24mV and 10mV at ba4re GCE, CNTs/GCE and Y2O3NPs/CNTs/GCE, respectively. The observation of only 10mV of ΔEp for ACT at Y2O3NPs/CNTs/GCE was a clear indication of a great acceleration of the electrode process compared to bare GCE and GCE modified with CNTs. Also, l-ascorbic acid (l-AA) and l-tyrosine (l-TRY) did not interfere with the selective determination of ACT. Square wave voltammetry (SWV) was performed for the quantification of ACT. A linear plot was obtained for current responses versus the concentrations of ACT over the range from 1.0×10(-10) to 1.8×10(-8)M with a detection limit of 3.0×10(-11)M (based on 3Sb/m). The proposed composite material provided high electrocatalytic activity, improved voltammetric behavior, good selectivity and good reproducibility. The accurate quantification of ACT makes the proposed electrode of great interest for the public health. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Block copolymer directed one-pot simple synthesis of L10-phase FePt nanoparticles inside ordered mesoporous aluminosilicate/carbon composites.

PubMed

Kang, Eunae; Jung, Hyunok; Park, Je-Geun; Kwon, Seungchul; Shim, Jongmin; Sai, Hiroaki; Wiesner, Ulich; Kim, Jin Kon; Lee, Jinwoo

2011-02-22

A "one-pot" synthetic method was developed to produce L1(0)-phase FePt nanoparticles in ordered mesostructured aluminosilicate/carbon composites using polyisoprene-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PI-b-PEO) as a structure-directing agent. PI-b-PEO block copolymers with aluminosilicate sols are self-assembled with a hydrophobic iron precursor (dimethylaminomethyl-ferrocene) and a hydrophobic platinum precursor (dimethyl(1,5-cyclooctadiene)platinum(II)) to obtain mesostructured composites. The as-synthesized material was heat-treated to 800 °C under an Ar/H(2) mixture (5% v/v), resulting in the formation of fct FePt nanocrystals encapsulated in ordered mesopores. By changing the quantities of the Fe and Pt precursors in the composite materials, the average particle size of the resulting fct FePt, estimated using the Debye-Scherer equation with X-ray diffraction patterns, can be easily controlled to be 2.6-10.4 nm. Using this simple synthetic method, we can extend the size of directly synthesized fct FePt up to ∼10 nm, which cannot be achieved directly in the colloidal synthetic method. All fct FePt nanoparticles show hysteresis behavior at room temperature, which indicates that ferromagnetic particles are obtained inside mesostructued channels. Well-isolated, ∼10 nm fct FePt have a coercivity of 1100 Oe at 300 K. This coercivity value is higher than values of fct FePt nanoparticles synthesized through the tedious hard template method by employing SBA-15 as a host material. The coercivity value for FePt-1 (2.6 nm) at 5 K is as high as 11 900 Oe, which is one of the largest values reported for FePt nanoparticles, or any other magnetic nanoparticles. The fct FePt nanoparticles also showed exchange-bias behavior.

Amino acid mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and preparation of antimicrobial agar/silver nanoparticles composite films.

PubMed

Shankar, Shiv; Rhim, Jong-Whan

2015-10-05

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using amino acids (tyrosine and tryptophan) as reducing and capping agents, and they were incorporated into the agar to prepare antimicrobial composite films. The AgNPs solutions exhibited characteristic absorption peak at 420 nm that showed a red shift to ∼434 nm after forming composite with agar. XRD data demonstrated the crystalline structure of AgNPs with dominant (111) facet. Apparent surface color and transmittance of agar films were greatly influenced by the AgNPs. The incorporation of AgNPs into agar did not exhibit any change in chemical structure, thermal stability, moisture content, and water vapor permeability. The water contact angle, tensile strength, and modulus decreased slightly, but elongation at break increased after AgNPs incorporation. The agar/AgNPs nanocomposite films possessed strong antibacterial activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli. The agar/AgNPs film could be applied to the active food packaging by controlling the food-borne pathogens. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electron microscopy localization and characterization of functionalized composite organic-inorganic SERS nanoparticles on leukemia cells.

PubMed

Koh, Ai Leen; Shachaf, Catherine M; Elchuri, Sailaja; Nolan, Garry P; Sinclair, Robert

2008-12-01

We demonstrate the use of electron microscopy as a powerful characterization tool to identify and locate antibody-conjugated composite organic-inorganic nanoparticle (COINs) surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles on cells. U937 leukemia cells labeled with antibody CD54-conjugated COINs were characterized in their native, hydrated state using wet scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and in their dehydrated state using high-resolution SEM. In both cases, the backscattered electron (BSE) detector was used to detect and identify the silver constituents in COINs due to its high sensitivity to atomic number variations within a specimen. The imaging and analytical capabilities in the SEM were further complemented by higher resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and scanning Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) data to give reliable and high-resolution information about nanoparticles and their binding to cell surface antigens.

Nanotechnology strategies for antibacterial and remineralizing composites and adhesives to tackle dental caries

PubMed Central

Cheng, Lei; Zhang, Ke; Weir, Michael D; Melo, Mary Anne S; Zhou, Xuedong; Xu, Hockin HK

2015-01-01

Dental caries is the most widespread disease and an economic burden. Nanotechnology is promising to inhibit caries by controlling biofilm acids and enhancing remineralization. Nanoparticles of silver were incorporated into composites/adhesives, along with quaternary ammonium methacrylates (QAMs), to combat biofilms. Nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) released calcium/phosphate ions, remineralized tooth-lesions and neutralized acids. By combining NAg/QAM/NACP, a new class of composites and adhesives with antibacterial and remineralization double benefits was developed. Various other nanoparticles including metal and oxide nanoparticles such as ZnO and TiO2, as well as polyethylenimine nanoparticles and their antibacterial capabilities in dental resins were also reviewed. These nanoparticles are promising for incorporation into dental composites/cements/sealants/bases/liners/adhesives. Therefore, nanotechnology has potential to significantly improve restorative and preventive dentistry. PMID:25723095

Microwave-synthesized freestanding iron-carbon nanotubes on polyester composites of woven Kevlar fibre and silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene

PubMed Central

Hazarika, Ankita; Deka, Biplab K.; Kim, DoYoung; Kong, Kyungil; Park, Young-Bin; Park, Hyung Wook

2017-01-01

We synthesized Ag nanoparticle-decorated multilayered graphene nanosheets (Ag-graphene) from graphite nanoplatelets and silver nitrate through 90–100 s of microwave exposure, without the use of any mineral acids or harsh reducing agents. Fe nanoparticle-decorated carbon nanotubes (Fe-CNTs) were grown on polypyrrole (PPy) deposited on woven Kevlar fibre (WKF), using ferrocene as a catalyst, under microwave irradiation. Fe-CNTs grown on WKF and Ag-graphene dispersed in polyester resin (PES) were combined to fabricate Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites by vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding. The combined effect of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene in the resulting composites resulted in a remarkable enhancement of tensile properties (a 192.56% increase in strength and 100.64% increase in modulus) as well as impact resistance (a 116.33% increase). The electrical conductivity significantly increased for Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites. The effectiveness of electromagnetic interference shielding, which relies strongly on the Ag-graphene content in the composites, was 25 times higher in Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES than in neat WKF/PES composites. The current work offers a novel route for fabricating highly promising, cost effective WKF/PES composites through microwave-assisted synthesis of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene. PMID:28074877

Microwave-synthesized freestanding iron-carbon nanotubes on polyester composites of woven Kevlar fibre and silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hazarika, Ankita; Deka, Biplab K.; Kim, Doyoung; Kong, Kyungil; Park, Young-Bin; Park, Hyung Wook

2017-01-01

We synthesized Ag nanoparticle-decorated multilayered graphene nanosheets (Ag-graphene) from graphite nanoplatelets and silver nitrate through 90-100 s of microwave exposure, without the use of any mineral acids or harsh reducing agents. Fe nanoparticle-decorated carbon nanotubes (Fe-CNTs) were grown on polypyrrole (PPy) deposited on woven Kevlar fibre (WKF), using ferrocene as a catalyst, under microwave irradiation. Fe-CNTs grown on WKF and Ag-graphene dispersed in polyester resin (PES) were combined to fabricate Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites by vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding. The combined effect of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene in the resulting composites resulted in a remarkable enhancement of tensile properties (a 192.56% increase in strength and 100.64% increase in modulus) as well as impact resistance (a 116.33% increase). The electrical conductivity significantly increased for Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites. The effectiveness of electromagnetic interference shielding, which relies strongly on the Ag-graphene content in the composites, was 25 times higher in Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES than in neat WKF/PES composites. The current work offers a novel route for fabricating highly promising, cost effective WKF/PES composites through microwave-assisted synthesis of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene.

Microwave-synthesized freestanding iron-carbon nanotubes on polyester composites of woven Kevlar fibre and silver nanoparticle-decorated graphene.

PubMed

Hazarika, Ankita; Deka, Biplab K; Kim, DoYoung; Kong, Kyungil; Park, Young-Bin; Park, Hyung Wook

2017-01-11

We synthesized Ag nanoparticle-decorated multilayered graphene nanosheets (Ag-graphene) from graphite nanoplatelets and silver nitrate through 90-100 s of microwave exposure, without the use of any mineral acids or harsh reducing agents. Fe nanoparticle-decorated carbon nanotubes (Fe-CNTs) were grown on polypyrrole (PPy) deposited on woven Kevlar fibre (WKF), using ferrocene as a catalyst, under microwave irradiation. Fe-CNTs grown on WKF and Ag-graphene dispersed in polyester resin (PES) were combined to fabricate Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites by vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding. The combined effect of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene in the resulting composites resulted in a remarkable enhancement of tensile properties (a 192.56% increase in strength and 100.64% increase in modulus) as well as impact resistance (a 116.33% increase). The electrical conductivity significantly increased for Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES composites. The effectiveness of electromagnetic interference shielding, which relies strongly on the Ag-graphene content in the composites, was 25 times higher in Ag-graphene/Fe-CNT/PPy-coated WKF/PES than in neat WKF/PES composites. The current work offers a novel route for fabricating highly promising, cost effective WKF/PES composites through microwave-assisted synthesis of Fe-CNTs and Ag-graphene.

Bioinspired Hierarchical Nanofibrous Silver-Nanoparticle/Anatase-Rutile-Titania Composite as an Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Luo, Yan; Li, Jiao; Huang, Jianguo

2016-11-29

A new bioinspired hierarchical nanofibrous silver-nanoparticle/anatase-rutile-titania (Ag-NP/A-R-titania) composite was fabricated by employing a natural cellulose substance (e.g., commercial laboratory cellulose filter paper) as the structural scaffold template, which was composed of anatase-phase titania (A-titania) nanotubes with rutile-phase titania (R-titania) nanoneedles grown on the surfaces and further silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) immobilized thereon. As it was employed as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), high reversible capacity, enhanced rate performance, and excellent cycling stability were achieved as compared with those of the corresponding cellulose-substance-derived nanotubular A-titania, R-titania, heterogeneous anatase/rutile titania (A-R-titania) composite, and commercial P25 powder. This benefited from its unique porous cross-linked three-dimensional structure inherited from the initial cellulose substance scaffold, which enhances the sufficient electrode/electrolyte contact, relieves the severe volume change upon cycling, and improves the amount of lithium-ion storage; moreover, the high loading content of the silver component in the composite improves the electrical conductivity of the electrode. The structural integrity of the composite was maintained upon long-term charge/discharge cycling, indicating its significant stability.

Gold nanoparticles-based protease assay

PubMed Central

Guarise, Cristian; Pasquato, Lucia; De Filippis, Vincenzo; Scrimin, Paolo

2006-01-01

We describe here a simple assay that allows the visual detection of a protease. The method takes advantage of the high molar absorptivity of the plasmon band of gold colloids and is based on the color change of their solution when treated with dithiols. We used C- and N-terminal cysteinyl derivatives of a peptide substrate exploiting its selective recognition and cleavage by a specific protease. Contrary to the native ones, cleaved peptides are unable to induce nanoparticles aggregation; hence, the color of the solution does not change. The detection of two proteases is reported: thrombin (involved in blood coagulation and thrombosis) and lethal factor (an enzyme component of the toxin produced by Bacillus anthracis). The sensitivity of this nanoparticle-based assay is in the low nanomolar range. PMID:16537471

Gold nanoparticles-based protease assay.

PubMed

Guarise, Cristian; Pasquato, Lucia; De Filippis, Vincenzo; Scrimin, Paolo

2006-03-14

We describe here a simple assay that allows the visual detection of a protease. The method takes advantage of the high molar absorptivity of the plasmon band of gold colloids and is based on the color change of their solution when treated with dithiols. We used C- and N-terminal cysteinyl derivatives of a peptide substrate exploiting its selective recognition and cleavage by a specific protease. Contrary to the native ones, cleaved peptides are unable to induce nanoparticles aggregation; hence, the color of the solution does not change. The detection of two proteases is reported: thrombin (involved in blood coagulation and thrombosis) and lethal factor (an enzyme component of the toxin produced by Bacillus anthracis). The sensitivity of this nanoparticle-based assay is in the low nanomolar range.

On the design of composite protein-quantum dot biomaterials via self-assembly.

PubMed

Majithia, Ravish; Patterson, Jan; Bondos, Sarah E; Meissner, Kenith E

2011-10-10

Incorporation of nanoparticles during the hierarchical self-assembly of protein-based materials can impart function to the resulting composite materials. Herein we demonstrate that the structure and nanoparticle distribution of composite fibers are sensitive to the method of nanoparticle addition and the physicochemical properties of both the nanoparticle and the protein. Our model system consists of a recombinant enhanced green fluorescent protein-Ultrabithorax (EGFP-Ubx) fusion protein and luminescent CdSe-ZnS core-shell quantum dots (QDs), allowing us to optically assess the distribution of both the protein and nanoparticle components within the composite material. Although QDs favorably interact with EGFP-Ubx monomers, the relatively rough surface morphology of composite fibers suggests EGFP-Ubx-QD conjugates impact self-assembly. Indeed, QDs templated onto EGFP-Ubx film post-self-assembly can be subsequently drawn into smooth composite fibers. Additionally, the QD surface charge impacts QD distribution within the composite material, indicating that surface charge plays an important role in self-assembly. QDs with either positively or negatively charged coatings significantly enhance fiber extensibility. Conversely, QDs coated with hydrophobic moieties and suspended in toluene produce composite fibers with a heterogeneous distribution of QDs and severely altered fiber morphology, indicating that toluene severely disrupts Ubx self-assembly. Understanding factors that impact the protein-nanoparticle interaction enables manipulation of the structure and mechanical properties of composite materials. Since proteins interact with nanoparticle surface coatings, these results should be applicable to other types of nanoparticles with similar chemical groups on the surface.

Magnetic nanoparticle-based drug delivery for cancer therapy.

PubMed

Tietze, Rainer; Zaloga, Jan; Unterweger, Harald; Lyer, Stefan; Friedrich, Ralf P; Janko, Christina; Pöttler, Marina; Dürr, Stephan; Alexiou, Christoph

2015-12-18

Nanoparticles have belonged to various fields of biomedical research for quite some time. A promising site-directed application in the field of nanomedicine is drug targeting using magnetic nanoparticles which are directed at the target tissue by means of an external magnetic field. Materials most commonly used for magnetic drug delivery contain metal or metal oxide nanoparticles, such as superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). SPIONs consist of an iron oxide core, often coated with organic materials such as fatty acids, polysaccharides or polymers to improve colloidal stability and to prevent separation into particles and carrier medium [1]. In general, magnetite and maghemite particles are those most commonly used in medicine and are, as a rule, well-tolerated. The magnetic properties of SPIONs allow the remote control of their accumulation by means of an external magnetic field. Conjugation of SPIONs with drugs, in combination with an external magnetic field to target the nanoparticles (so-called "magnetic drug targeting", MDT), has additionally emerged as a promising strategy of drug delivery. Magnetic nanoparticle-based drug delivery is a sophisticated overall concept and a multitude of magnetic delivery vehicles have been developed. Targeting mechanism-exploiting, tumor-specific attributes are becoming more and more sophisticated. The same is true for controlled-release strategies for the diseased site. As it is nearly impossible to record every magnetic nanoparticle system developed so far, this review summarizes interesting approaches which have recently emerged in the field of targeted drug delivery for cancer therapy based on magnetic nanoparticles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

De-agglomeration and homogenisation of nanoparticles in coal tar pitch-based carbon materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gubernat, Maciej; Tomala, Janusz; Frohs, Wilhelm; Fraczek-Szczypta, Aneta; Blazewicz, Stanislaw

2016-03-01

The aim of the work was to characterise coal tar pitch (CTP) modified with selected nanoparticles as a binder precursor for the manufacture of synthetic carbon materials. Different factors influencing the preliminary preparative steps in the preparation of homogenous nanoparticle/CTP composition were studied. Graphene flakes, carbon black and nano-sized silicon carbide were used to modify CTP. Prior to introducing them into liquid CTP, nanoparticles were subjected to sonication. Various dispersants were used to prepare the suspensions, i.e. water, ethanol, dimethylformamide (DMF) and N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP).The results showed that proper dispersant selection is one of the most important factors influencing the de-agglomeration process of nanoparticles. DMF and NMP were found to be effective dispersants for the preparation of homogenous nanoparticle-containing suspensions. The presence of SiC and carbon black nanoparticles in the liquid pitch during heat treatment up to 2000 °C leads to the inhibition of crystallite growth in carbon residue.

Fe3O4@Au composite magnetic nanoparticles modified with cetuximab for targeted magneto-photothermal therapy of glioma cells.

PubMed

Lu, Qianling; Dai, Xinyu; Zhang, Peng; Tan, Xiao; Zhong, Yuejiao; Yao, Cheng; Song, Mei; Song, Guili; Zhang, Zhenghai; Peng, Gang; Guo, Zhirui; Ge, Yaoqi; Zhang, Kangzhen; Li, Yuntao

2018-01-01

Thermoresponsive nanoparticles have become an attractive candidate for designing combined multimodal therapy strategies because of the onset of hyperthermia and their advantages in synergistic cancer treatment. In this paper, novel cetuximab (C225)-encapsulated core-shell Fe 3 O 4 @Au magnetic nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs) were created and applied as a therapeutic nanocarrier to conduct targeted magneto-photothermal therapy against glioma cells. The core-shell Fe 3 O 4 @Au magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were prepared, and then C225 was further absorbed to synthesize Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs. Their morphology, mean particle size, zeta potential, optical property, magnetic property and thermal dynamic profiles were characterized. After that, the glioma-destructive effect of magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) combined with near-infrared (NIR) hyperthermia mediated by Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The inhibitory and apoptotic rates of Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs-mediated combined hyperthermia (MFH+NIR) group were significantly higher than other groups in vitro and the marked upregulation of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 expression indicated excellent antitumor effect by inducing intrinsic apoptosis. Furthermore, Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs-mediated combined hyperthermia (MFH+NIR) group exhibited significant tumor growth suppression compared with other groups in vivo. Our studies illustrated that Fe 3 O 4 @Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs have great potential as a promising nanoplatform for human glioma therapy and could be of great value in medical use in the future.

Fe3O4@Au composite magnetic nanoparticles modified with cetuximab for targeted magneto-photothermal therapy of glioma cells

PubMed Central

Tan, Xiao; Zhong, Yuejiao; Yao, Cheng; Song, Mei; Song, Guili; Zhang, Zhenghai; Peng, Gang; Guo, Zhirui; Ge, Yaoqi; Zhang, Kangzhen; Li, Yuntao

2018-01-01

Background Thermoresponsive nanoparticles have become an attractive candidate for designing combined multimodal therapy strategies because of the onset of hyperthermia and their advantages in synergistic cancer treatment. In this paper, novel cetuximab (C225)-encapsulated core-shell Fe3O4@Au magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs) were created and applied as a therapeutic nanocarrier to conduct targeted magneto-photothermal therapy against glioma cells. Methods The core-shell Fe3O4@Au magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were prepared, and then C225 was further absorbed to synthesize Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs. Their morphology, mean particle size, zeta potential, optical property, magnetic property and thermal dynamic profiles were characterized. After that, the glioma-destructive effect of magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) combined with near-infrared (NIR) hyperthermia mediated by Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results The inhibitory and apoptotic rates of Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs-mediated combined hyperthermia (MFH+NIR) group were significantly higher than other groups in vitro and the marked upregulation of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 expression indicated excellent antitumor effect by inducing intrinsic apoptosis. Furthermore, Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs-mediated combined hyperthermia (MFH+NIR) group exhibited significant tumor growth suppression compared with other groups in vivo. Conclusion Our studies illustrated that Fe3O4@Au-C225 composite-targeted MNPs have great potential as a promising nanoplatform for human glioma therapy and could be of great value in medical use in the future. PMID:29719396

Porphyrin-based polysilsesquioxane nanoparticles to improve photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vivero-Escoto, Juan L.; DeCillis, Daniel; Fritts, Laura; Vega, Daniel L.

2014-03-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as an alternative approach to chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer treatment. The photosensitizer (PS) is perhaps the most critical component of PDT, and continues to be an area of intense scientific research. Traditionally, PS molecules (e.g. porphyrins) have dominated the field. Nevertheless, these PS agents have several disadvantages, with low water solubility, poor light absorption and reduced selectivity for targeted tissues being some of the main drawbacks. Polysilsesquioxane (PSilQ) nanoparticles are crosslinked homopolymers formed by the condensation of functionalized trialkoxysilanes or bis(trialkoxysilanes). We believe that PSilQ particles provide an interesting platform for developing PS nanocarriers. Several advantages can be foreseen by using this platform such as carrying a large payload of PS molecules; their surface and composition can be tailored to develop multifunctional systems (e.g. target-specific); and due to their small size, nanoparticles can penetrate deep into tissues and be readily internalized by cells. In this work, PSilQ nanoparticles with a high payload of photosensitizers were synthesized, characterized, and applied in vitro. The network of this nanomaterial is formed by protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) molecules chemically connected via a redox-responsive linker. Under reducing environment such as the one found in cancer cells the nanoparticles can be degraded to efficiently release single photosensitizers in the cytoplasm. The phototoxicity of this porphyrin-based PSilQ nanomaterial was successfully demonstrated in vitro using human cervical (HeLa) cancer cells. We envision that this platform can be further functionalized with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and targeting ligands to improve its biocompatibility and target specificity.

Carboxymethyl chitosan based nanocomposites containing chemically bonded quantum dots and magnetic nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Yongling; Yin, Hong; Chen, Rui; Bai, Ru; Chen, Chunying; Hao, Xiaojuan; Shen, Shirley; Sun, Kangning; Liu, Futian

2018-03-01

A biocompatible nanocomposite consisting of fluorescent quantum dots (QDs) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) has been constructed via carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), resulting in magnetic-fluorescent nanoparticles (MFNPs). In these MFNPs, QDs and MNPs are successfully conjugated via covalent bonds onto the surface of CMCS. The composite retains favorable magnetic and fluorescent properties and shows a good colloidal stability in physiological environments. Folate (FA) as a specific targeting ligand was further incorporated into the nanocomposites to form a delivery vehicle with a targeting function. The therapeutic activity was achieved by loading chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX) through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. The cumulative DOX release profile shows pH-sensitive. Both flow cytometry analysis and confocal laser scanning microscopic observation suggested that these nanocomposites were uptaken by cancer cells via FA receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. In summary, the CMCS based nanocomposites developed in this work have a great potential for effective cancer-targeting and drug delivery, as well as in situ cellular imaging.

Effect of electron beam irradiation on thermal and mechanical properties of aluminum based epoxy composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Visakh, P. M.; Nazarenko, O. B.; Sarath Chandran, C.; Melnikova, T. V.; Nazarenko, S. Yu.; Kim, J.-C.

2017-07-01

The epoxy resins are widely used in nuclear and aerospace industries. The certain properties of epoxy resins as well as the resistance to radiation can be improved by the incorporation of different fillers. This study examines the effect of electron beam irradiation on the thermal and mechanical properties of the epoxy composites filled with aluminum nanoparticles at percentage of 0.35 wt%. The epoxy composites were exposed to the irradiation doses of 30, 100 and 300 kGy using electron beam generated by the linear electron accelerator ELU-4. The effects of the doses on thermal and mechanical properties of the aluminum based epoxy composites were investigated by the methods of thermal gravimetric analysis, tensile test, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The results revealed that the studied epoxy composites showed good radiation resistance. The thermal and mechanical properties of the aluminum based epoxy composites increased with increasing the irradiation dose up to 100 kGy and decreased with further increasing the dose.

Impact of Carrier Fluid Composition on Recovery of Nanoparticles and Proteins in Flow Field Flow Fractionation

PubMed Central

Schachermeyer, Samantha; Ashby, Jonathan; Kwon, MinJung; Zhong, Wenwan

2012-01-01

Flow field flow fractionation (F4) is an invaluable separation tool for large analytes, including nanoparticles and biomolecule complexes. However, sample loss due to analyte-channel membrane interaction limits extensive usage of F4 at present, which could be strongly affected by the carrier fluid composition. This work studied the impacts of carrier fluid (CF) composition on nanoparticle (NP) recovery in F4, with focus on high ionic strength conditions. Successful analysis of NPs in a biomolecules-friendly environment could expand the applicability of F4 to the developing field of nanobiotechnology. Recovery of the unfunctionalized polystyrene NPs of 199-, 102-, and 45-nm in CFs with various pH (6.2, 7.4 and 8.2), increasing ionic strength (0–0.1 M), and different types of co- and counter-ions, were investigated. Additionally, elution of the 85-nm carboxylate NPs and two proteins, human serum albumin (HSA) and immunoglobulin (IgG), at high ionic strengths (0–0.15 M) was investigated. Our results suggested that; 1) Electrostatic repulsion between the negatively charged NPs and the regenerated cellulose membrane was the main force to avoid particle adsorption on the membrane; 2) Larger particles experienced higher attractive force and thus were influenced more by variation in CF composition; and 3) Buffers containing weak anions or NPs with weak anion as the surface functional groups provided higher tolerance to the increase in ionic strength, owing to more anions being trapped inside the NP porous structure. Protein adsorption onto the membrane was also briefly investigated in salted CFs, using human serum albumin and immunoglobulin. We believe our findings could help to identify the basic carrier fluid composition for higher sample recovery in F4 analysis of nanoparticles in a protein-friendly environment, which will be useful for applying F4 in bioassays and in nanotoxicology studies. PMID:23058938

Delivery of RNA interference therapeutics using polycation-based nanoparticles.

PubMed

Howard, Kenneth Alan

2009-07-25

RNAi-based therapies are dependent on extracellular and intracellular delivery of RNA molecules for enabling target interaction. Polycation-based nanoparticles (or polyplexes) formed by self-assembly with RNA can be used to modulate pharmacokinetics and intracellular trafficking to improve the therapeutic efficacy of RNAi-based therapeutics. This review describes the application of polyplexes for extracellular and intracellular delivery of synthetic RNA molecules. Focus is given to routes of administration and silencing effects in animal disease models. The inclusion of functional components into the nanoparticle for controlling cellular trafficking and RNA release is discussed. This work highlights the versatile nature of polycation-based nanoparticles to fulfil the delivery requirements for RNA molecules with flexibility in design to evolve alongside an expanding repertoire of RNAi-based drugs.

Lipid-Based Nanoparticles as Pharmaceutical Drug Carriers: From Concepts to Clinic

PubMed Central

Puri, Anu; Loomis, Kristin; Smith, Brandon; Lee, Jae-Ho; Yavlovich, Amichai; Heldman, Eli; Blumenthal, Robert

2010-01-01

In recent years, various nanotechnology platforms in the area of medical biology, including both diagnostics and therapy, have gained remarkable attention. Moreover, research and development of engineered multifunctional nanoparticles as pharmaceutical drug carriers have spurred exponential growth in applications to medicine in the last decade. Design principles of these nanoparticles, including nano-emulsions, dendrimers, nano-gold, liposomes, drug-carrier conjugates, antibody-drug complexes, and magnetic nanoparticles, are primarily based on unique assemblies of synthetic, natural, or biological components, including but not limited to synthetic polymers, metal ions, oils, and lipids as their building blocks. However, the potential success of these particles in the clinic relies on consideration of important parameters such as nanoparticle fabrication strategies, their physical properties, drug loading efficiencies, drug release potential, and, most importantly, minimum toxicity of the carrier itself. Among these, lipid-based nanoparticles bear the advantage of being the least toxic for in vivo applications, and significant progress has been made in the area of DNA/RNA and drug delivery using lipid-based nanoassemblies. In this review, we will primarily focus on the recent advances and updates on lipid-based nanoparticles for their projected applications in drug delivery. We begin with a review of current activities in the field of liposomes (the so-called honorary nanoparticles), and challenging issues of targeting and triggering will be discussed in detail. We will further describe nanoparticles derived from a novel class of amphipathic lipids called bolaamphiphiles with unique lipid assembly features that have been recently examined as drug/DNA delivery vehicles. Finally, an overview of an emerging novel class of particles (based on lipid components other than phospholipids), solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers will be presented. We

Anodization Mechanism on SiC Nanoparticle Reinforced Al Matrix Composites Produced by Power Metallurgy.

PubMed

Ferreira, Sonia C; Conde, Ana; Arenas, María A; Rocha, Luis A; Velhinho, Alexandre

2014-12-19

Specimens of aluminum-based composites reinforced by silicon carbide nanoparticles (Al/SiC np ) produced by powder metallurgy (PM) were anodized under voltage control in tartaric-sulfuric acid (TSA). In this work, the influence of the amount of SiC np on the film growth during anodizing was investigated. The current density versus time response and the morphology of the porous alumina film formed at the composite surface are compared to those concerning a commercial aluminum alloy (AA1050) anodized under the same conditions. The processing method of the aluminum alloys influences the efficiency of the anodizing process, leading to a lower thicknesses for the unreinforced Al-PM alloy regarding the AA1050. The current density versus time response is strongly dependent on the amount of SiC np . The current peaks and the steady-state current density recorded at each voltage step increases with the SiC np volume fraction due to the oxidation of the SiC np . The formation mechanism of the anodic film on Al/SiC np composites is different from that occurring in AA1050, partly due the heterogeneous distribution of the reinforcement particles in the metallic matrix, but also to the entrapment of SiC np in the anodic film.

Anodization Mechanism on SiC Nanoparticle Reinforced Al Matrix Composites Produced by Power Metallurgy

PubMed Central

Ferreira, Sonia C.; Conde, Ana; Arenas, María A.; Rocha, Luis A.; Velhinho, Alexandre

2014-01-01

Specimens of aluminum-based composites reinforced by silicon carbide nanoparticles (Al/SiCnp) produced by powder metallurgy (PM) were anodized under voltage control in tartaric-sulfuric acid (TSA). In this work, the influence of the amount of SiCnp on the film growth during anodizing was investigated. The current density versus time response and the morphology of the porous alumina film formed at the composite surface are compared to those concerning a commercial aluminum alloy (AA1050) anodized under the same conditions. The processing method of the aluminum alloys influences the efficiency of the anodizing process, leading to a lower thicknesses for the unreinforced Al-PM alloy regarding the AA1050. The current density versus time response is strongly dependent on the amount of SiCnp. The current peaks and the steady-state current density recorded at each voltage step increases with the SiCnp volume fraction due to the oxidation of the SiCnp. The formation mechanism of the anodic film on Al/SiCnp composites is different from that occurring in AA1050, partly due the heterogeneous distribution of the reinforcement particles in the metallic matrix, but also to the entrapment of SiCnp in the anodic film. PMID:28788295

Structure and Dynamics of Polymer/Polymer grafted nanoparticle composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Archer, Lynden

Addition of nanoparticles to polymers is a well-practiced methodology for augmenting various properties of the polymer host, including mechanical strength, thermal stability, barrier properties, dimensional stability and wear resistance. Many of these property changes are known to arise from nanoparticle-induced modification of polymer structure and chain dynamics, which are strong functions of the dispersion state of the nanoparticles' and on their relative size (D) to polymer chain dimensions (e.g. Random coil radius Rg or entanglement mesh size a) . This talk will discuss polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) comprised of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) tethered silica nanoparticles (SiO2-PEG) dispersed in polymers as model systems for investigating phase stability and dynamics of PNCs. On the basis of small-angle X-ray Scattering, it will be shown that favorable enthalpic interactions between particle-tethered chains and a polymer host provides an important mechanism for creating PNCs in which particle aggregation is avoided. The talk will report on polymer and particle scale dynamics in these materials and will show that grafted nanoparticles well dispersed in a polymer host strongly influence the host polymer relaxation dynamics on all timescales and the polymers in turn produce dramatic changes in the nature (from diffusive to hyperdiffusive) and speed of nano particle decorrelation dynamics at the polymer entanglement threshold. A local viscosity model capable of explaining these observations is discussed and the results compared with scaling theories for NP motions in polymers This material is based on work supported by the National Science Foundation Award Nos. DMR-1609125 and CBET-1512297.

Remote activation of a microactuator using a photo-responsive nanoparticle-polymer composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeberoff, Anthony

Stimulus response materials are a class of novel materials that are currently being explored in various technologies, including biomedical devices and components, food packaging, fabrics, energy harvesting and conversion, and other elementary components such as sensors and actuators. Hybrid organic-inorganic materials such as nanoparticle-polymer composites are attractive candidates as their properties can be significantly tuned for particular applications where selectivity and localized responses are critical factors. In this work we developed and optimized a photo-responsive microactuator that can operate selectively to a specific wavelength of light. The photo-responsive microactuator is comprised of monodispersed microspheres that contain gold nanoparticles. Upon irradiation, these microspheres transduce optical energy to thermal energy, driving a localized phase change in the matrix in which they are embedded. Our remotely powered microactuator can be further realized in applications where decoupling the physical connection of the energy/control source from the actuating component is necessary.

Facile preparation of superhydrophobic surfaces based on metal oxide nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bao, Xue-Mei; Cui, Jin-Feng; Sun, Han-Xue; Liang, Wei-Dong; Zhu, Zhao-Qi; An, Jin; Yang, Bao-Ping; La, Pei-Qing; Li, An

2014-06-01

A novel method for fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces was developed by facile coating various metal oxide nanoparticles, including ZnO, Al2O3 and Fe3O4, on various substrates followed by treatment with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Using ZnO nanoparticles as a model, the changes in the surface chemical composition and crystalline structures of the metal oxide nanoparticles by PDMS treatment were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. The results show that the combination of the improved surface roughness generated from of the nanoparticles aggregation with the low surface-energy of silicon-coating originated from the thermal pyrolysis of PDMS would be responsible for the surface superhydrophobicity. By a simple dip-coating method, we show that the metal oxide nanoparticles can be easily coated onto the surfaces of various textural and dimensional substrates, including glass slide, paper, fabric or sponge, for preparation of superhydrophobic surfaces for different purpose. The present strategy may provide an inexpensive and new route to surperhydrophobic surfaces, which would be of technological significance for various practical applications especially for separation of oils or organic contaminates from water.

Rare Earth Oxide Fluoride Nanoparticles And Hydrothermal Method For Forming Nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Fulton, John L.; Hoffmann, Markus M.

2003-12-23

A hydrothermal method for forming nanoparticles of a rare earth element, oxygen and fluorine has been discovered. Nanoparticles comprising a rare earth element, oxygen and fluorine are also described. These nanoparticles can exhibit excellent refractory properties as well as remarkable stability in hydrothermal conditions. The nanoparticles can exhibit excellent properties for numerous applications including fiber reinforcement of ceramic composites, catalyst supports, and corrosion resistant coatings for high-temperature aqueous solutions.

Rare earth oxide fluoride nanoparticles and hydrothermal method for forming nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Fulton, John L [Richland, WA; Hoffmann, Markus M [Richland, WA

2001-11-13

A hydrothermal method for forming nanoparticles of a rare earth element, oxygen and fluorine has been discovered. Nanoparticles comprising a rare earth element, oxygen and fluorine are also described. These nanoparticles can exhibit excellent refractory properties as well as remarkable stability in hydrothermal conditions. The nanoparticles can exhibit excellent properties for numerous applications including fiber reinforcement of ceramic composites, catalyst supports, and corrosion resistant coatings for high-temperature aqueous solutions.

A Low Temperature, Solution-Processed Poly(4-vinylphenol), YO(x) Nanoparticle Composite/Polysilazane Bi-Layer Gate Insulator for ZnO Thin Film Transistor.

PubMed

Shin, Hyeonwoo; Kang, Chan-Mo; Chae, Hyunsik; Kim, Hyun-Gwan; Baek, Kyu-Ha; Choi, Hyoung Jin; Park, Man-Young; Do, Lee-Mi; Lee, Changhee

2016-03-01

Low temperature, solution-processed metal oxide thin film transistors (MEOTFTs) have been widely investigated for application in low-cost, transparent, and flexible electronics. To enlarge the application area, solution-processed gate insulators (GI) have been investigated in recent years. We investigated the effects of the organic/inorganic bi-layer GI to ZnO thin film transistors (TFTs). PVP, YO(x) nanoparticle composite, and polysilazane bi-layer showed low leakage current (-10(-8) A/cm2 in 2 MV), which are applicable in low temperature processed MEOTFTs. Polysilazane was used as an interlayer between ZnO and PVP, YO(x) nanoparticle composite as a good charge transport interface with ZnO. By applying the PVP, YO(x), nanoparticle composite/polysilazane bi-layer structure to ZnO TFTs, we successfully suppressed the off current (I(off)) to -10(-11) and fabricated good MEOTFTs in 180 degrees C.

Anomalous dielectric behavior in nanoparticle Eu2O3 : SiO2 glass composite system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, S.; Chen, C. H.; Chou, C. C.; Yang, H. D.

2010-12-01

Eu2O3 (0.5 mol%) nanoparticles have been synthesized in a silica glass matrix by the sol-gel method at calcination temperatures of 700 °C and above. Compared with the parent material SiO2, this nano-glass composite system shows enhancement of dielectric constant and diffuse phase transition along with magnetodielectric effect around room temperature (~270 K). The observed conduction mechanism is found to be closely related to the thermally activated oxygen vacancies. Magnetodielectric behavior is strongly associated with magnetoresistance changes, depending on the nanoparticle size and separation. Such a material might be treated as a potential candidate for device miniaturization.

Effect of the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles on the magnetic properties of Fe soft magnetic composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yuandong; Nie, Junwu; Zhang, Wenjun; Ma, Jian; Bao, Chongxi; Cao, Yang

2016-02-01

We investigated the effect of the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles on the permeability and core loss of Fe soft magnetic composites coated with silicone. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed that the surface layer of the powder particles consisted of a thin insulating Al2O3 layer with uniform surface coverage. The permeability and core loss of the composite with the Al2O3 addition annealed at 650 °C were excellent. The results indicated that the Al2O3 nanoparticle addition increases the permeability stablility with changing frequency and decreases the core loss over a wide range of frequencies.

Investigating effects of nano cerium oxide reinforcement on mechanical properties of composite based on natural rubber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bao, Le Quoc; Phan, Vu Hoang Giang; Khuyen, Nguyen Quang

2018-04-01

Polymer nanocomposites that based on combination of nanomaterials (such as nanoparticles, nanotubes, nanorods, nanofibers, and nanosheets) and polymeric matrices are receiving great attention in research and application. However, separate and homogenous dispersion rather than aggregates of nanoparticles into matrices meet big difficulty due to large interaction between nanoparticles. The poor dispersion leads to low properties of nanocomposites. In this study, we find out the appropriate method to separately disperse cerium oxides (CeO2) nanoparticles into natural rubber, aiming to increase mechanical properties of natural rubber. The SEM images were used to evaluate the dispersion of nano CeO2 in natural rubber matrix. The mechanical properties of nanocomposites were measured after vulcanization to investigate effects of nano CeO2 amount on prepared composite. The findings exhibited that the addition of CeO2 by dispersion of nano CeO2 in water via ultrasonication before mixing with rubber latex, significantly increase modulus, tear and wear resistance of natural rubber.

Heavy-metal detectors based on modified ferrite nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Klekotka, Urszula; Wińska, Ewelina; Zambrzycka-Szelewa, Elżbieta; Satuła, Dariusz

2018-01-01

In this work, we analyze artificial heavy-metal solutions with ferrite nanoparticles. Measurements of adsorption effectiveness of different kinds of particles, pure magnetite or magnetite doped with calcium, cobalt, manganese, or nickel ions, were carried out. A dependence of the adsorption efficiency on the composition of the inorganic core has been observed. Ferrites surfaces were modified by phthalic anhydride (PA), succinic anhydride (SA), acetic anhydride (AA), 3-phosphonopropionic acid (3-PPA), or 16-phosphohexadecanoic acid (16-PHDA) to compare the adsorption capability of the heavy metals Cd, Cu and Pb. The obtained nanoparticles were structurally characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The amounts of Cd, Cu and Pb were measured out by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) as comparative techniques. The performed study shows that SA linker appears to be the most effective in the adsorption of heavy metals. Moreover, regarding the influence of the composition of the inorganic core on the detection ability, the most effective ferrite Mn0.5Fe2.5O4 was selected for discussion. The highest heavy-metal adsorption capability and universality was observed for SA as a surface modifier. PMID:29600137

Heavy-metal detectors based on modified ferrite nanoparticles.

PubMed

Klekotka, Urszula; Wińska, Ewelina; Zambrzycka-Szelewa, Elżbieta; Satuła, Dariusz; Kalska-Szostko, Beata

2018-01-01

In this work, we analyze artificial heavy-metal solutions with ferrite nanoparticles. Measurements of adsorption effectiveness of different kinds of particles, pure magnetite or magnetite doped with calcium, cobalt, manganese, or nickel ions, were carried out. A dependence of the adsorption efficiency on the composition of the inorganic core has been observed. Ferrites surfaces were modified by phthalic anhydride (PA), succinic anhydride (SA), acetic anhydride (AA), 3-phosphonopropionic acid (3-PPA), or 16-phosphohexadecanoic acid (16-PHDA) to compare the adsorption capability of the heavy metals Cd, Cu and Pb. The obtained nanoparticles were structurally characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The amounts of Cd, Cu and Pb were measured out by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) as comparative techniques. The performed study shows that SA linker appears to be the most effective in the adsorption of heavy metals. Moreover, regarding the influence of the composition of the inorganic core on the detection ability, the most effective ferrite Mn 0.5 Fe 2.5 O 4 was selected for discussion. The highest heavy-metal adsorption capability and universality was observed for SA as a surface modifier.

Thermal and Mechanical Characteristics of Polymer Composites Based on Epoxy Resin, Aluminium Nanopowders and Boric Acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazarenko, O. B.; Melnikova, T. V.; Visakh, P. M.

2016-01-01

The epoxy polymers are characterized by low thermal stability and high flammability. Nanoparticles are considered to be effective fillers of polymer composites for improving their thermal and functional properties. In this work, the epoxy composites were prepared using epoxy resin ED-20, polyethylene polyamine as a hardener, aluminum nanopowder and boric acid fine powder as flame-retardant filler. The thermal characteristics of the obtained samples were studied using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The mechanical characteristics of epoxy composites were also studied. It was found that an addition of all fillers enhances the thermal stability and mechanical characteristics of the epoxy composites. The best thermal stability showed the epoxy composite filled with boric acid. The highest flexural properties showed the epoxy composite based on the combination of boric acid and aluminum nanopowder.

Enhanced electromagnetic interference shielding properties of carbon fiber veil/Fe3O4 nanoparticles/epoxy multiscale composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Wei; Wang, Jun; Zhang, Bin; Wu, Qilei; Su, Xiaogang

2017-12-01

The multiscale approach has been adapted to enhance the electromagnetic interference shielding properties of carbon fiber (CF) veil epoxy-based composites. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were homogeneously dispersed in the epoxy matrix after surface modification by using silane coupling agent. The CF veil/Fe3O4 NPs/epoxy multiscale composites were manufactured by impregnating the CF veils with Fe3O4 NPs/epoxy mixture to prepare prepreg followed by vacuum bagging process. The electromagnetic interference shielding properties combined with the complex permittivity and complex permeability of the composites were investigated in the X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz) range. The total shielding effectiveness (SET) increases with increasing Fe3O4 NPs loadings and the maximum SET is 51.5 dB at low thickness of 1 mm. The incorporation of Fe3O4 NPs into the composites enhances the complex permittivity and complex permeability thus enhancing the electromagnetic wave absorption capability. The increased SET dominated by absorption loss SEA is attributed to the enhanced magnetic loss and dielectric loss generated by Fe3O4 NPs and multilayer construction of the composites. The microwave conductivity increases and the skin depth decreases with increasing Fe3O4 NPs loadings.

Preparation and characterization of WO3 nanoparticles, WO3/TiO2 core/shell nanocomposites and PEDOT:PSS/WO3 composite thin films for photocatalytic and electrochromic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyadjiev, Stefan I.; Santos, Gustavo dos Lopes; Szżcs, Júlia; Szilágyi, Imre M.

2016-03-01

In this study, monoclinic WO3 nanoparticles were obtained by thermal decomposition of (NH4)xWO3 in air at 600 °C. On them by atomic layer deposition (ALD) TiO2 films were deposited, and thus core/shell WO3/TiO2 nanocomposites were prepared. We prepared composites of WO3 nanoparticles with conductive polymer as PEDOT:PSS, and deposited thin films of them on glass and ITO substrates by spin coating. The formation, morphology, composition and structure of the as-prepared pure and composite nanoparticles, as well thin films, were studied by TEM, SEM-EDX and XRD. The photocatalytic activity of both the WO3 and core/shell WO3/TiO2 nanoparticles was studied by decomposing methyl orange in aqueous solution under UV light irradiation. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were performed on the composite PEDOT:PSS/WO3 thin films, and the coloring and bleaching states were studied.

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery to the vagina: a review

PubMed Central

Ensign, Laura M.; Cone, Richard; Hanes, Justin

2014-01-01

Vaginal drug administration can improve prophylaxis and treatment of many conditions affecting the female reproductive tract, including sexually transmitted diseases, fungal and bacterial infections, and cancer. However, achieving sustained local drug concentrations in the vagina can be challenging, due to the high permeability of the vaginal epithelium and expulsion of conventional soluble drug dosage forms. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery platforms have received considerable attention for vaginal drug delivery, as nanoparticles can provide sustained release, cellular targeting, and even intrinsic antimicrobial or adjuvant properties that can improve the potency and/or efficacy of prophylactic and therapeutic modalities. Here, we review the use of polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, dendrimers, and inorganic nanoparticles for vaginal drug delivery. Although most of the work toward nanoparticle-based drug delivery in the vagina has been focused on HIV prevention, strategies for treatment and prevention of other sexually transmitted infections, treatment for reproductive tract cancer, and treatment of fungal and bacterial infections are also highlighted. PMID:24830303

Surface modification of bioactive glass nanoparticles and the mechanical and biological properties of poly(L-lactide) composites.

PubMed

Liu, Aixue; Hong, Zhongkui; Zhuang, Xiuli; Chen, Xuesi; Cui, Yang; Liu, Yi; Jing, Xiabin

2008-07-01

Novel bioactive glass (BG) nanoparticles/poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) composites were prepared as promising bone-repairing materials. The BG nanoparticles (Si:P:Ca=29:13:58 weight ratio) of about 40nm diameter were prepared via the sol-gel method. In order to improve the phase compatibility between the polymer and the inorganic phase, PLLA (M(n)=9700Da) was linked to the surface of the BG particles by diisocyanate. The grafting ratio of PLLA was in the vicinity of 20 wt.%. The grafting modification could improve the tensile strength, tensile modulus and impact energy of the composites by increasing the phase compatibility. When the filler loading reached around 4 wt.%, the tensile strength of the composite increased from 56.7 to 69.2MPa for the pure PLLA, and the impact strength energy increased from 15.8 to 18.0 kJ m(-2). The morphology of the tensile fracture surface of the composite showed surface-grafted bioactive glass particles (g-BG) to be dispersed homogeneously in the PLLA matrix. An in vitro bioactivity test showed that, compared to pure PLLA scaffold, the BG/PLLA nanocomposite demonstrated a greater capability to induce the formation of an apatite layer on the scaffold surface. The results of marrow stromal cell culture revealed that the composites containing either BG or g-BG particles have much better biocompatibility compared to pure PLLA material.

Progress on Numerical Modeling of the Dispersion of Ceramic Nanoparticles During Ultrasonic Processing and Solidification of Al-Based Nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Daojie; Nastac, Laurentiu

2016-12-01

In present study, 6061- and A356-based nano-composites are fabricated by using the ultrasonic stirring technology (UST) in a coreless induction furnace. SiC nanoparticles are used as the reinforcement. Nanoparticles are added into the molten metal and then dispersed by ultrasonic cavitation and acoustic streaming assisted by electromagnetic stirring. The applied UST parameters in the current experiments are used to validate a recently developed magneto-hydro-dynamics (MHD) model, which is capable of modeling the cavitation and nanoparticle dispersion during UST processing. The MHD model accounts for turbulent fluid flow, heat transfer and solidification, and electromagnetic field, as well as the complex interaction between the nanoparticles and both the molten and solidified alloys by using ANSYS Maxwell and ANSYS Fluent. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are conducted to analyze the complex interactions between the nanoparticle and the liquid/solid interface. The current modeling results demonstrate that a strong flow can disperse the nanoparticles relatively well during molten metal and solidification processes. MD simulation results prove that ultrafine particles (10 nm) will be engulfed by the solidification front instead of being pushed, which is beneficial for nano-dispersion.

Nanoparticle-based photodynamic therapy on non-melanoma skin cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fanjul-Vélez, F.; Arce-Diego, J. L.

2018-02-01

There are several advantages of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for nonmelanoma skin cancer treatment compared to conventional treatment techniques such as surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Among these advantages its noninvasive nature, the use of non ionizing radiation and its high selectivity can be mentioned. Despite all these advantages, the therapeutic efficiency of the current clinical protocol is not complete in all the patients and depends on the type of pathology. An adequate dosimetry is needed in order to personalize the protocol. There are strategies that try to overcome the current PDT shortcomings, such as the improvement of the photosensitizer accumulation in the target tissue, optical radiation distribution optimization or photochemical reactions maximization. These strategies can be further complemented by the use of nanostructures with conventional PDT. Customized dosimetry for nanoparticle-based PDT requires models in order to adjust parameters of different nature to get an optimal tumor removal. In this work, a predictive model of nanoparticle-based PDT is proposed and analyzed. Dosimetry in nanoparticle-based PDT is going to be influenced by photosensitizer-nanoparticle distribution in the malignant tissue, its influence in the optical radiation distribution and the subsequent photochemical reactions. Nanoparticles are considered as photosensitizer carriers on several types of non-melanoma skin cancer. Shielding effects are taken into account. The results allow to compare the estimated treatment outcome with and without nanoparticles.

Synthesis and characterizations of Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles/carbon nanotube composite as an efficient absorber material for solar cell application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, S.; Sa, K.; Alam, I.; Mahakul, P. C.; Raiguru, J.; Subramanyam, B. V. R. S.; Mahanandia, P.

2018-05-01

In this energy crisis era, the urgent calls for clean energy converter realizes the importance of photovoltaic device, which offers the highest probability of delivering a sustainable way of harvesting solar energy. The active absorber layer has its significance towards the performance of photovoltaic device by absorbing solar light and creating electron-hole pair inside layer. Being a direct p-type semiconductor, Cu2ZnSnS4 generally referred as CZTS has emerged as potential absorber towards photovoltaics application in recent decades as it offers the advantage of tunable band gap near optimal region ˜1.45-1.65 eV favorably match the solar spectrum and a high absorption coefficient ˜104 cm-1. The further improvement in the performance of CZTS based photovoltaics has involved the use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Semiconductors hybridized with carbonaceous materials (CNTs) have been the center of attraction in the scientific community with beneficial contribution in enhancing optoelectronic properties. The incorporation of CNTs shows effectiveness in charge carrier transfer pathways which ultimately could enhance the photo conversion efficiency (PCE) of photovoltaic device cell (PVC). Here, a facile hydrothermal one-pot synthesis of CZTS nanoparticles and MWCNTs composite towards photovoltaics application is reported. The phase and structural analysis of CZTS nanoparticles as well as CZTS/MWCNTs composite is done by XRD. From FERSEM and TEM (LRTEM & HRTEM) analysis the CZTS nanoparticles decorated over the surface of MWCNTs is confirmed. The optical band gap of CZTS/MWCNTs composite is estimated to be 1.62 eV from UV-Visible spectra.

Nanoparticle-based Therapies for Wound Biofilm Infection: Opportunities and Challenges

PubMed Central

Kim, Min-Ho

2016-01-01

Clinical data from human chronic wounds implicates biofilm formation with the onset of wound chronicity. Despite the development of novel antimicrobial agents, the cost and complexity of treating chronic wound infections associated with biofilms remain a serious challenge, which necessitates the development of new and alternative approaches for effective anti-biofilm treatment. Recent advancement in nanotechnology for developing a new class of nanoparticles that exhibit unique chemical and physical properties holds promise for the treatment of biofilm infections. Over the last decade, nanoparticle-based approaches against wound biofilm infection have been directed toward developing nanoparticles with intrinsic antimicrobial properties, utilizing nanoparticles for controlled antimicrobials delivery, and applying nanoparticles for antibacterial hyperthermia therapy. In addition, a strategy to functionalize nanoparticles towards enhanced penetration through the biofilm matrix has been receiving considerable interest recently by means of achieving an efficient targeting to the bacterial cells within biofilm matrix. This review summarizes and highlights the recent development of these nanoparticle-based approaches as potential therapeutics for controlling wound biofilm infection, along with current challenges that need to be overcome for their successful clinical translation. PMID:26955044

Correlating structural dynamics and catalytic activity of AgAu nanoparticles with ultrafast spectroscopy and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Ferbonink, G F; Rodrigues, T S; Dos Santos, D P; Camargo, P H C; Albuquerque, R Q; Nome, R A

2018-05-29

In this study, we investigated hollow AgAu nanoparticles with the goal of improving our understanding of the composition-dependent catalytic activity of these nanoparticles. AgAu nanoparticles were synthesized via the galvanic replacement method with controlled size and nanoparticle compositions. We studied extinction spectra with UV-Vis spectroscopy and simulations based on Mie theory and the boundary element method, and ultrafast spectroscopy measurements to characterize decay constants and the overall energy transfer dynamics as a function of AgAu composition. Electron-phonon coupling times for each composition were obtained from pump-power dependent pump-probe transients. These spectroscopic studies showed how nanoscale surface segregation, hollow interiors and porosity affect the surface plasmon resonance wavelength and fundamental electron-phonon coupling times. Analysis of the spectroscopic data was used to correlate electron-phonon coupling times to AgAu composition, and thus to surface segregation and catalytic activity. We have performed all-atom molecular dynamics simulations of model hollow AgAu core-shell nanoparticles to characterize nanoparticle stability and equilibrium structures, besides providing atomic level views of nanoparticle surface segregation. Overall, the basic atomistic and electron-lattice dynamics of core-shell AgAu nanoparticles characterized here thus aid the mechanistic understanding and performance optimization of AgAu nanoparticle catalysts.

Enhanced stab resistance of armor composites with functionalized silica nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahfuz, Hassan; Clements, Floria; Rangari, Vijaya; Dhanak, Vinod; Beamson, Graham

2009-03-01

Traditionally shear thickening fluid (STF) reinforced with Kevlar has been used to develop flexible armor. At the core of the STF-Kevlar composites is a mixture of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and silica particles. This mixture is often known as STF and is consisted of approximately 45 wt % PEG and 55 wt % silica. During rheological tests, STF shows instantaneous spike in viscosity above a critical shear rate. Fabrication of STF-Kevlar composites requires preparation of STF, dilution with ethanol, and then impregnation with Kevlar. In the current approach, nanoscale silica particles were dispersed directly into a mixture of PEG and ethanol through a sonic cavitation process. Two types of silica nanoparticles were used in the investigation: 30 nm crystalline silica and 7 nm amorphous silica. The admixture was then reinforced with Kevlar fabric to produce flexible armor composites. In the next step, silica particles are functionalized with a silane coupling agent to enhance bonding between silica and PEG. The performance of the resulting armor composites improved significantly. As evidenced by National Institute of Justice spike tests, the energy required for zero-layer penetration (i.e., no penetration) jumped twofold: from 12 to 25 J cm2/g. The source of this improvement has been traced to the formation of siloxane (Si-O-Si) bonds between silica and PEG and superior coating of Kevlar filaments with particles. Fourier transform infrared, x-ray photoemission spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy studies were performed to examine chemical bonds, elemental composition, and particle dispersion responsible for such improvement. In summary, our experiments have demonstrated that functionalization of silica particles followed by direct dispersion into PEG resulted in superior Kevlar composites having much higher spike resistance.

Adsorption energies of poly(ethylene oxide)-based surfactants and nanoparticles on an air-water surface.

PubMed

Zell, Zachary A; Isa, Lucio; Ilg, Patrick; Leal, L Gary; Squires, Todd M

2014-01-14

The self-assembly of polymer-based surfactants and nanoparticles on fluid-fluid interfaces is central to many applications, including dispersion stabilization, creation of novel 2D materials, and surface patterning. Very often these processes involve compressing interfacial monolayers of particles or polymers to obtain a desired material microstructure. At high surface pressures, however, even highly interfacially active objects can desorb from the interface. Methods of directly measuring the energy which keeps the polymer or particles bound to the interface (adsorption/desorption energies) are therefore of high interest for these processes. Moreover, though a geometric description linking adsorption energy and wetting properties through the definition of a contact angle can be established for rigid nano- or microparticles, such a description breaks down for deformable or aggregating objects. Here, we demonstrate a technique to quantify desorption energies directly, by comparing surface pressure-density compression measurements using a Wilhelmy plate and a custom-microfabricated deflection tensiometer. We focus on poly(ethylene oxide)-based polymers and nanoparticles. For PEO-based homo- and copolymers, the adsorption energy of PEO chains scales linearly with molecular weight and can be tuned by changing the subphase composition. Moreover, the desorption surface pressure of PEO-stabilized nanoparticles corresponds to the saturation surface pressure for spontaneously adsorbed monolayers, yielding trapping energies of ∼10(3) k(B)T.

Wet-Chemical Preparation of TiO2-Based Composites with Different Morphologies and Photocatalytic Properties

PubMed Central

Xiang, Liqin; Zhao, Xiaopeng

2017-01-01

TiO2-based composites have been paid significant attention in the photocatalysis field. The size, crystallinity and nanomorphology of TiO2 materials have an important effect on the photocatalytic efficiency. The synthesis and photocatalytic activity of TiO2-based materials have been widely investigated in past decades. Based on our group’s research works on TiO2 materials, this review introduces several methods for the fabrication of TiO2, rare-earth-doped TiO2 and noble-metal-decorated TiO2 particles with different morphologies. We focused on the preparation and the formation mechanism of TiO2-based materials with unique structures including spheres, hollow spheres, porous spheres, hollow porous spheres and urchin-like spheres. The photocatalytical activity of urchin-like TiO2, noble metal nanoparticle-decorated 3D (three-dimensional) urchin-like TiO2 and bimetallic core/shell nanoparticle-decorated urchin-like hierarchical TiO2 are briefly discussed. PMID:28991208

Application of High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) as a Graphene Nanoparticle Reinforced Composite Thermoplastic Adhesive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stitt, Erik

Adhesive bonding is a more efficient joining method for composites than traditional mechanical fasteners and provides advantages in weight reduction, simplicity, and cost. In addition, the utilization of mechanical fasteners introduces stress concentrations and damage to the fiber-matrix interface. Adhesive bonding with thermoset polymers distributes mechanical loads but also makes disassembly for repair and recycling difficult. The ability to utilize thermoplastic polymers as adhesives offers an approach to address these limitations and can even produce a reversible adhesive joining technology through combining conductive nanoparticles with a thermoplastic polymer. The incorporation of the conductive nanoparticles allows for selective heating of the adhesive via exposure to electromagnetic (EM) radiation and simultaneously can augment the mechanical properties of the adhesive and the adhesive joint. This approach provides a versatile mechanism for efficiently creating and reversing structural adhesive joints across a wide range of materials. In this work, a high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) co-polymer containing butadiene as a toughness modifier is compounded with graphene nano-platelets (GnP) for investigation as a thermoplastic adhesive. The properties of the bulk composite adhesive are tailored by altering the morphology, dispersion, and concentration of GnP. The thermal response of the material to EM radiation in the microwave frequency spectrum was investigated and optimized. Surface treatments of the adhesive films were explored to enhance the viability of this nanoparticle thermoplastic polymer to function as a reversible adhesive. As a result, it has been shown that lap-shear strengths of multi-material joints produced from aforementioned thermoplastic adhesives were comparable to similar thermoset bonded joints.

Structural and optical properties of novel surfactant-coated Yb@TiO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calandra, P.; Lombardo, D.; Pistone, A.; Turco Liveri, V.; Trusso, S.

2011-11-01

In this paper a novel hybrid approach to synthesise composite nanoparticles is presented. It is based on the laser ablation of a bulk target (Yb) immersed in a reversed micellar solution which contains nanoparticles of a different host material (TiO2 nanoparticles) previously synthesised by chemical method. This approach thus exploits the advantages of the chemical synthesis through reversed micellar solution (size control, nanoparticle stabilisation), and of the laser ablation ("clean" synthesis, no side reactions). Central role is played by the microscopic processes controlling the deposition of the ablated Yb atoms onto the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles which actually behave as nucleation seeds. The structural features of the resulting Yb@TiO2 composite nanoparticles have been studied by Transmission Electron Microscopy, whereas their peculiar optical properties have been explored by UV-Vis spectroscopy and steady-state fluorescence. Results consistently show the formation of Yb and TiO2 glued nanodomains to form nearly spherical and non-interacting nanoparticles with enhanced photophysical properties.

Enhancing the magnetic anisotropy of maghemite nanoparticles via the surface coordination of molecular complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prado, Yoann; Daffé, Niéli; Michel, Aude; Georgelin, Thomas; Yaacoub, Nader; Grenèche, Jean-Marc; Choueikani, Fadi; Otero, Edwige; Ohresser, Philippe; Arrio, Marie-Anne; Cartier-Dit-Moulin, Christophe; Sainctavit, Philippe; Fleury, Benoit; Dupuis, Vincent; Lisnard, Laurent; Fresnais, Jérôme

2015-12-01

Superparamagnetic nanoparticles are promising objects for data storage or medical applications. In the smallest--and more attractive--systems, the properties are governed by the magnetic anisotropy. Here we report a molecule-based synthetic strategy to enhance this anisotropy in sub-10-nm nanoparticles. It consists of the fabrication of composite materials where anisotropic molecular complexes are coordinated to the surface of the nanoparticles. Reacting 5 nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with the [CoII(TPMA)Cl2] complex (TPMA: tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine) leads to the desired composite materials and the characterization of the functionalized nanoparticles evidences the successful coordination--without nanoparticle aggregation and without complex dissociation--of the molecular complexes to the nanoparticles surface. Magnetic measurements indicate the significant enhancement of the anisotropy in the final objects. Indeed, the functionalized nanoparticles show a threefold increase of the blocking temperature and a coercive field increased by one order of magnitude.

Enhancing the magnetic anisotropy of maghemite nanoparticles via the surface coordination of molecular complexes

PubMed Central

Prado, Yoann; Daffé, Niéli; Michel, Aude; Georgelin, Thomas; Yaacoub, Nader; Grenèche, Jean-Marc; Choueikani, Fadi; Otero, Edwige; Ohresser, Philippe; Arrio, Marie-Anne; Cartier-dit-Moulin, Christophe; Sainctavit, Philippe; Fleury, Benoit; Dupuis, Vincent; Lisnard, Laurent; Fresnais, Jérôme

2015-01-01

Superparamagnetic nanoparticles are promising objects for data storage or medical applications. In the smallest—and more attractive—systems, the properties are governed by the magnetic anisotropy. Here we report a molecule-based synthetic strategy to enhance this anisotropy in sub-10-nm nanoparticles. It consists of the fabrication of composite materials where anisotropic molecular complexes are coordinated to the surface of the nanoparticles. Reacting 5 nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with the [CoII(TPMA)Cl2] complex (TPMA: tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine) leads to the desired composite materials and the characterization of the functionalized nanoparticles evidences the successful coordination—without nanoparticle aggregation and without complex dissociation—of the molecular complexes to the nanoparticles surface. Magnetic measurements indicate the significant enhancement of the anisotropy in the final objects. Indeed, the functionalized nanoparticles show a threefold increase of the blocking temperature and a coercive field increased by one order of magnitude. PMID:26634987

Chemically functionalized gold nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization, and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daniel, Weston Lewis

This thesis focuses on the development and application of gold nanoparticle based detection systems and biomimetic structures. Each class of modified nanoparticle has properties that are defined by its chemical moieties that interface with solution and the gold nanoparticle core. In Chapter 2, a comparison of the biomolecular composition and binding properties of various preparations of antibody oligonucleotide gold nanoparticle conjugates is presented. These constructs differed significantly in terms of their structure and binding properties. Chapter 3 reports the use of electroless gold deposition as a light scattering signal enhancer in a multiplexed, microarray-based scanometric immunoassay using the gold nanoparticle probes evaluated in Chapter 2. The use of gold development results in greater signal enhancement than the typical silver development, and multiple rounds of metal development were found to increase the resulting signal compared to one development. Chapter 4 describes an amplified scanometric detection method for human telomerase activity. Gold nanoparticles functionalized with specific oligonucleotide sequences can efficiently capture telomerase enzymes and subsequently be elongated. Both the elongated and unmodified oligonucleotide sequences are simultaneously measured. At low telomerase concentrations, elongated strands cannot be detected, but the unmodified sequences, which come from the same probe particles, can be detected because their concentration is higher, providing a novel form of amplification. Chapter 5 reports the development of a novel colorimetric nitrite and nitrate ion assay based upon gold nanoparticle probes functionalized with Griess reaction reagents. This assay takes advantage of the distance-dependent plasmonic properties of the gold nanoparticles and the ability of nitrite ion to facilitate the cross coupling of novel nanoparticle probes. The assay works on the concept of a kinetic end point and can be triggered at the EPA

Advances in silica based nanoparticles for targeted cancer therapy.

PubMed

Yang, Yannan; Yu, Chengzhong

2016-02-01

Targeted delivery of anticancer drug specifically to tumor site without damaging normal tissues has been the dream of all scientists fighting against cancer for decades. Recent breakthrough on nanotechnology based medicines has provided a possible tool to solve this puzzle. Among diverse nanomaterials that are under development and extensive study, silica based nanoparticles with vast advantages have attracted great attention. In this review, we concentrate on the recent progress using silica based nanoparticles, particularly mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), for targeted drug delivery applications. First, we discuss the passive targeting capability of silica based nanoparticles in relation to their physiochemical properties. Then, we focus on the recent advances of active targeting strategies involving tumor cell targeting, vascular targeting, nuclear targeting and multistage targeting, followed by an introduction to magnetic field directed targeting approach. We conclude with our personal perspectives on the remaining challenges and the possible future directions. Chemotherapy has been one of the mainstays of cancer treatment. The advances in nanotechnology has allowed the development of novel carrier systems for the delivery of anticancer drugs. Mesoporous silica has shown great promise in this respect. In this review article, the authors provided a comprehensive overview of the use of this nanoparticle in both passive, as well as active targeting in the field of oncology. The advantages of this particle were further discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Antiviral activity of silver nanoparticle/chitosan composites against H1N1 influenza A virus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mori, Yasutaka; Ono, Takeshi; Miyahira, Yasushi; Nguyen, Vinh Quang; Matsui, Takemi; Ishihara, Masayuki

2013-02-01

Silver nanoparticle (Ag NP)/chitosan (Ch) composites with antiviral activity against H1N1 influenza A virus were prepared. The Ag NP/Ch composites were obtained as yellow or brown floc-like powders following reaction at room temperature in aqueous medium. Ag NPs (3.5, 6.5, and 12.9 nm average diameters) were embedded into the chitosan matrix without aggregation or size alternation. The antiviral activity of the Ag NP/Ch composites was evaluated by comparing the TCID50 ratio of viral suspensions treated with the composites to untreated suspensions. For all sizes of Ag NPs tested, antiviral activity against H1N1 influenza A virus increased as the concentration of Ag NPs increased; chitosan alone exhibited no antiviral activity. Size dependence of the Ag NPs on antiviral activity was also observed: antiviral activity was generally stronger with smaller Ag NPs in the composites. These results indicate that Ag NP/Ch composites interacting with viruses exhibit antiviral activity.

Morphological and Spectral Characteristics of Hybrid Nanosystems Based on Mono- and Bimetallic Platinum Nanoparticles and Silver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valueva, S. V.; Vylegzhanina, M. E.; Sukhanova, T. E.

2018-02-01

Morphological and spectral characteristics of hybrid nanosystems (NSes) based on mono- and bimetallic silver and platinum nanoparticles (NPs) stabilized by a cationic polyelectrolyte (CP), poly- N,N,N,N-trimethylmethacryloyloxyethylammonium methylsulfate, are determined via static/dynamic light scattering, UV spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The formation of dense spherical polymolecular nanostructures is established. The possibility of controlling the morphological and spectral characteristics of the NS is shown by varying the nature and composition of NPs.

Molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles-based electrochemical sensor for determination of diazinon pesticide in well water and apple fruit samples.

PubMed

Motaharian, Ali; Motaharian, Fatemeh; Abnous, Khalil; Hosseini, Mohammad Reza Milani; Hassanzadeh-Khayyat, Mohammad

2016-09-01

In this research, an electrochemical sensor based on molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanoparticles for selective and sensitive determination of diazinon (DZN) pesticides was developed. The nanoparticles of diazinon imprinted polymer were synthesized by suspension polymerization and then used for modification of carbon paste electrode (CPE) composition in order to prepare the sensor. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV) methods were applied for electrochemical measurements. The obtained results showed that the carbon paste electrode modified by MIP nanoparticles (nano-MIP-CP) has much higher adsorption ability for diazinon than the CPE based non-imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nano-NIP-CP). Under optimized extraction and analysis conditions, the proposed sensor exhibited excellent sensitivity (95.08 μA L μmol(-1)) for diazinon with two linear ranges of 2.5 × 10(-9) to 1.0 × 10(-7) mol L(-1) (R (2) = 0.9971) and 1.0 × 10(-7) to 2.0 × 10(-6) mol L(-1) (R (2) = 0.9832) and also a detection limit of 7.9 × 10(-10) mol.L(-1). The sensor was successfully applied for determination of diaznon in well water and apple fruit samples with recovery values in the range of 92.53-100.86 %. Graphical abstract Procedure for preparation of electrochemical sensor based on MIP nanoparticles for determination of diazinon.

Magnetic Properties of Nanoparticle Matrix Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-02

recording materials with large value of Ku are SmCo5 with Ku = 11-20 x 10 7 erg/cm 3 for the minimum stable particle size of 2.45 nm, FePt with Ku...nanoparticles and the matrix compared with the bulk behavior of the soft and hard phases and ferromagnetic coupling. 15. SUBJECT TERMS...Magnetic materials , Ab initio methods, nanoparticles, Nanocomposites, Ferromagnetics 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT

Mechanical and thermal properties of polylactic acid composites reinforced with cellulose nanoparticles extracted from kenaf fibre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ketabchi, Mohammad Reza; Khalid, Mohammad; Thevy Ratnam, Chantara; Walvekar, Rashmi

2016-12-01

Different approaches have been attempted to use biomass as filler for production of biodegradable polymer composites. In this study, cellulose nanoparticles (CNP) extracted from kenaf fibres were used to produce polylactic acid (PLA) based biodegradable nanocomposites. CNP concentration was varied from 1-5 wt. % and blended with PLA using Brabender twin-screw compounder. Effects of CNP loading on the mechanical, thermal and dynamic properties of PLA were investigated. Studies on the morphological properties and influence of CNP loading on the properties of CNP/PLA nanocomposite were also conducted. The results show an adequate compatibility between CNP and PLA matrix. Moreover, addition of 3 wt. % of CNP improved the PLA tensile strength by 25%.

Promising iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles in biomedical engineering.

PubMed

Tran, Phuong Ha-Lien; Tran, Thao Truong-Dinh; Vo, Toi Van; Lee, Beom-Jin

2012-12-01

For the past few decades biomedical engineering has imprinted its significant impact on the map of science through its wide applications on many other fields. An important example obviously proving this fact is the versatile application of magnetic nanoparticles in theranostics. Due to preferable properties such as biocompatibility, non-toxicity compared to other metal derivations, iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles was chosen to be addressed in this review. Aim of this review is to give the readers a whole working window of these magnetic nanoparticles in the current context of science. Thus, preparation of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles with the so-far techniques, methods of characterizing the nanoparticles as well as their most recent biomedical applications will be stated.

A highly reversible room-temperature lithium metal battery based on crosslinked hairy nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhury, Snehashis; Mangal, Rahul; Agrawal, Akanksha; Archer, Lynden A.

2015-12-01

Rough electrodeposition, uncontrolled parasitic side-reactions with electrolytes and dendrite-induced short-circuits have hindered development of advanced energy storage technologies based on metallic lithium, sodium and aluminium electrodes. Solid polymer electrolytes and nanoparticle-polymer composites have shown promise as candidates to suppress lithium dendrite growth, but the challenge of simultaneously maintaining high mechanical strength and high ionic conductivity at room temperature has so far been unmet in these materials. Here we report a facile and scalable method of fabricating tough, freestanding membranes that combine the best attributes of solid polymers, nanocomposites and gel-polymer electrolytes. Hairy nanoparticles are employed as multifunctional nodes for polymer crosslinking, which produces mechanically robust membranes that are exceptionally effective in inhibiting dendrite growth in a lithium metal battery. The membranes are also reported to enable stable cycling of lithium batteries paired with conventional intercalating cathodes. Our findings appear to provide an important step towards room-temperature dendrite-free batteries.

A highly reversible room-temperature lithium metal battery based on crosslinked hairy nanoparticles.

PubMed

Choudhury, Snehashis; Mangal, Rahul; Agrawal, Akanksha; Archer, Lynden A

2015-12-04

Rough electrodeposition, uncontrolled parasitic side-reactions with electrolytes and dendrite-induced short-circuits have hindered development of advanced energy storage technologies based on metallic lithium, sodium and aluminium electrodes. Solid polymer electrolytes and nanoparticle-polymer composites have shown promise as candidates to suppress lithium dendrite growth, but the challenge of simultaneously maintaining high mechanical strength and high ionic conductivity at room temperature has so far been unmet in these materials. Here we report a facile and scalable method of fabricating tough, freestanding membranes that combine the best attributes of solid polymers, nanocomposites and gel-polymer electrolytes. Hairy nanoparticles are employed as multifunctional nodes for polymer crosslinking, which produces mechanically robust membranes that are exceptionally effective in inhibiting dendrite growth in a lithium metal battery. The membranes are also reported to enable stable cycling of lithium batteries paired with conventional intercalating cathodes. Our findings appear to provide an important step towards room-temperature dendrite-free batteries.

A highly reversible room-temperature lithium metal battery based on crosslinked hairy nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Choudhury, Snehashis; Mangal, Rahul; Agrawal, Akanksha; Archer, Lynden A.

2015-01-01

Rough electrodeposition, uncontrolled parasitic side-reactions with electrolytes and dendrite-induced short-circuits have hindered development of advanced energy storage technologies based on metallic lithium, sodium and aluminium electrodes. Solid polymer electrolytes and nanoparticle-polymer composites have shown promise as candidates to suppress lithium dendrite growth, but the challenge of simultaneously maintaining high mechanical strength and high ionic conductivity at room temperature has so far been unmet in these materials. Here we report a facile and scalable method of fabricating tough, freestanding membranes that combine the best attributes of solid polymers, nanocomposites and gel-polymer electrolytes. Hairy nanoparticles are employed as multifunctional nodes for polymer crosslinking, which produces mechanically robust membranes that are exceptionally effective in inhibiting dendrite growth in a lithium metal battery. The membranes are also reported to enable stable cycling of lithium batteries paired with conventional intercalating cathodes. Our findings appear to provide an important step towards room-temperature dendrite-free batteries. PMID:26634644

Direct-writing of copper-based micropatterns on polymer substrates using femtosecond laser reduction of copper (II) oxide nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mizoshiri, Mizue; Ito, Yasuaki; Sakurai, Junpei; Hata, Seiichi

2017-04-01

Copper (Cu)-based micropatterns were fabricated on polymer substrates using femtosecond laser reduction of copper (II) oxide (CuO) nanoparticles. CuO nanoparticle solution, which consisted of CuO nanoparticles, ethylene glycol as a reductant agent, and polyvinylpyrrolidone as a dispersant, was spin-coated on poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) substrates and was irradiated by focused femtosecond laser pulses to fabricate Cu-based micropatterns. When the laser pulses were raster-scanned onto the solution, CuO nanoparticles were reduced and sintered. Cu-rich and copper (I)-oxide (Cu2O)-rich micropatterns were formed at laser scanning speeds of 15 mm/s and 0.5 mm/s, respectively, and at a pulse energy of 0.54 nJ. Cu-rich electrically conductive micropatterns were obtained without significant damages on the substrates. On the other hand, Cu2O-rich micropatterns exhibited no electrical conductivity, indicating that microcracks were generated on the micropatterns by thermal expansion and shrinking of the substrates. We demonstrated a direct-writing of Cu-rich micro-temperature sensors on PDMS substrates using the foregoing laser irradiation condition. The resistance of the fabricated sensors increased with increasing temperature, which is consistent with that of Cu. This direct-writing technique is useful for fabricating Cu-polymer composite microstructures.